This book is fast-paced, emotionally layered thriller that pulls you in from the first page and never lets go. Centered around police constable Philomena “Phil” McCarthy, the story explores loyalty, justice, and the weight of personal history with razor-sharp tension.

Phil is as fierce and flawed as ever—driven by instinct, haunted by her past, and constantly toeing the line between right and wrong who feels both real and unpredictable. The writing is tight, the tone gritty, and the psychological edge keeps you guessing without needing constant action.

While a few moments feel familiar if you’re a seasoned thriller reader, the emotional stakes and character complexity more than make up for it.

This is a clever, character-driven thriller that balances suspense with heart. A gripping read from start to finish

I love the character of Phil McCarthy and the plot starts out to set a fast paced and heart pumping read. It begins with finding a young girl by herself and a jewellery robbery involving a bomb. The story is impossible to put down and the characters are hard hitting to forget. This is my first Phil novel but definitely not the last.

I always enjoy Michael Robotham’s books, but I think this is my favourite so far. I’m really enjoying Philomena McCarthy, and her navigation of life on the right side of the law, while her family sometimes skates a little close to the wrong side.
In this book, Philomena is trying to solve the mystery of the death of a woman in her home, while her husbands business was being robbed. There are plenty of potential suspects, including Philomena herself. The tension is maintained throughout the book, making for a great read.

love Michael's books there 's been a A jewellery shop burglary and a murder Philomena McCarthy is the second book full of action and tenison
while philomena solve it and is her dad involved
loved it

Philomena McCarthy is back in what I hope is the second book of her series. This book covers both her private and work life bringing both worlds together in a clever plot of east end gangsters and rich upper class families.

I loved this book. It was pure Michael Robotham at his best. Great characters, intriguing storylines and twists when you think everything has come together.

Thank you so much to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read this book. It was an absolute joy.

The White Crow is the second installment of the Philomena McCarthy series and it is another thought-provoking psychological thriller. It can be read as a standalone. Philomena is a police officer who also happens to be the daughter of a crime boss. In this book, a mother has been murdered in a home hostage situation, and Philomena finds her very young daughter roaming alone in the dark. The woman’s husband, a jeweler, is found tied up in a break-in at his store. Robotham’s books are character-driven, layered and well paced. I am particularly impressed with his realistic character dialogues of children, as well as realistic family relationships. I highly recommend this book! With thanks to Netgalley and Hachette Australia and New Zealand. My opinions are my own. Susanh_bookreviews