On Cold Ground

This is the 5th book in the Detective Karen Hart Series by author DS Butler. I discovered this series at the end of last year and it was an instant hit for me. Great characters, exciting plots and so well written make this a must read for all fans of police procedurals.

Detective Karen Hart is first on the scene of a murder when she hears a scream and goes to investigate. A man’s murdered body lies in a chapel with a bloody cross carved into his forehead. A murderer known as ‘The Cleanser’ is on the loose and starts a series of brutal killings that appear to be a sadistic mission. Detective Karen Hart is on the case and there are hints and rumours that point to a police conspiracy within her colleagues. The case is a tough one with the added disruption of a very annoying senior officer.

This was an excellent read and had me reading late into the night unable to put it down. Exciting plot and the dialogue between the regular characters made this an enjoyable read.

I would like to thank both Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

I really liked this book. Believable characters and storylines. I haven't read others in the series but it worked as a standalone and left me wanting to read more. Have now downloaded others in the series to read!
Because I haven't read any others in the series yet, I don't know how much of the back story to the characters is already out there, so I look forward to finding out more.
Very readable and recommended if you like police procedurals / crime books.

Karen Hart is still reeling from personal loss, when she is first on the scene of a brutal murder at Lincoln Cathedral - a man was found there having been strangled and with a bloody cross etched into his forehead. When the crime gets more personal, and the Police receive a note signed by "The Cleanser", another team are brought in to help, one led by someone who Karen has been told to be careful around.

This is a really good book, and I am pleased to say I only spotted the twist when it was just about to happen! I will say that there are a few loose threads left at the end of the book due to the resolution - Karen's story seems to be wrapped up, but a few other characters seem to be forgotten a little in the conclusion.

Detective Karen Hart is near Lincoln Cathedral when a man is found dead, a cross carved into his forehead. A note is received from the killer, calling themselves "The Cleanser". When another murder occurs, it becomes clear that someone is carrying out these killings, possible in a ritualistic way. When links to conspiracy surface, Karen begins to wonder if it all comes down to corruption within the police and sets about trying to solve the crimes. Could 'The Cleanser' be closer than she could have imagined? Could Karen's life be at risk?

Another brilliant addition to the Detective Karen Hart series. A thrilling and tense plot full of murder, suspicion, shocks, heartbreak and corruption, the book will keep you guessing until the end. As usual I loved seeing how Karen and her team were getting on and loved how everything came together in the story. You should definitely read this series!!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of the book in return for my honest feedback.

Karen Hart is beginning to move on after the untimely deaths of her husband and daughter, and has begun a new relationship. She's on a date with the new man when a scream from the cathedral draws her to the scene of a murder. After her current DI is threatened, the Karen's major suspect in the ongoing corruption investigation in the police is put in command of her team. Solid police procedural that keeps the twists and turns coming.

Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley..

Karen Hart's off duty when she hears a scream coming from the cathedral. A dead man has been discovered with a cross carved into his head.

Soon there's a note - from The Cleanser

With the internal corruption & conspiracy case still ongoing, a serial killer is all Karen needs.

An excellent addition to the series

Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for the eARC.
This is the fifth in the DS Karen Hart series and probably my least favorite. Karen is out with Mike when she's stopped by a woman's horrific scream. She had just stumbled on the body of a strangled and mutilated man. Karen is now on the case and more bodies follow with the same M.O.
She is still grieving for her lost husband and child, but has entered in a, so far, happy relationship with Mike. The case is taking it's toll, she's baffled, how does the killer know so much about her and the team and has it to do with another officer on the take?
I wasn't totally gripped by the book, I found Karen a bit OCD about finding another bent copper and the ending was familiar, not in identifying the killer and his handler, but in the set up. I did like Sophie as a character, though.

Excellent book loved it Detective Karen Hart is book and this book doesn't disappoint as karen and the team have to find a killer before the death count rises.Brilliant read i can highly recommend this book 5*

Another excellent book by D.S. Butler which carries on from her previous novel. Would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good thriller. Features Detective Karen Hart who has to solve the murders of The Cleanser. Keeps you guessing until the end.

Wow an absolutely fantastic story! Tense and full of twists and surprises, this had me hanging on to every word, I literally couldn’t put it down. It had me sucked in from the first chapter and kept me engaged the whole way through. There is nothing negative to say at all about this book, it totally deserves 5 great big fat stars!

Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. One of the better ones in the series although it took a while to build momentum. Good story and I am glad the author wrapped up the corruption backstory - lets see where the character goes next now that thats over

OMG WOW WOW WOW i really didnt want this book to end. Fabulous story loving the karen hart series. Twists and turns . Gritty. Without spoiling it i kept saying noooooo you cant do that. Noooo never........ is dci churchill really corrupt???? As he takes over as dci in the latest murder case as morgan steps down after he received a letter hand delivered. The team are in a race to find out the truth...... If i could give this more than 5 stars i most definately would. A must read

Another solid instalment in this well established series that continues and concludes on going plotlines from previous books. Best read as part of the series

A twisty turning plot which grips the reader.
Several times characters seem to be involved as the plot twists and turns till the end.
Previous events are referred to so it maybe prudent to read previous book series.
Likable characters. Unsure a little on if the changing characters perspective works from Karen to Sophie later on.
Well written overall with a good plot flow.

A good solid read with an interesting story line and well developed characters.

For me, personally, I probably should have read the previous books in the series but nevertheless I enjoyed this book but for me it didn't keep me on the edge of my seat.

Thank you to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book.

A Reign Of Terror....
Detective Karen Hart returns in the fifth of the series. A gruesome murder in Lincoln Cathedral begins a reign of terror from a twisted killer. Well constructed crime procedural with well drawn and credible characters. Could be read as a standalone although threads from earlier books in the series are tied up here not to mention backstory detail. Engaging reading.

Detective Karen Hart is walking past a cathedral with her partner when her attention is drawn to a murder victim inside the Cathedral. A note is soon sent to the police calling themselves The Cleanser. A new senior officer is brought in to oversee the case who is very abrasive and arises Karen's suspicions as she is dealing with corruption in the force and this new officer's name was mentioned in connection with the corruption. Also someone is watching her but who and why?

It's part five of a crime series. I'd not read any of the others but really enjoyed this book. Detective Hart's backstory was revealed but I felt I needed to read the others which isn't a criticism at all. Far from it, I would regard this as how a character is supposed to develop as a book series goes on. I'm a big fan of crime dramas on tv so from me this is a massive compliment but I imagined her as a tv detective in the manner of Vera. I didn't see the twist in the story until the author revealed it which to me and I'm sure this is true of any other crime fiction fan is a really good thing. I'd not heard of the author before this but considering how good a book this was is to my shame.

If any of the other books in the series are as good as this one then this could be a classic series. I will be seeking out the other books in this series as I enjoyed this one so much. This can be read as a standalone story but to understand the characters better I would recommend going back and reading the others. The psychological motivations of the villainy were believable and plausible.

If you're a fan of crime fiction, buy this book.

Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher. I have read a few books by this author and have enjoyed them all. This had great storyline and great characters and kept me hooked from the beginning to the end. Enjoyed it.

Another great book in DS Butler series, a serial killer, corruption amongst her colleagues means Karen doesn't know who she can trust. Trying to find the killer it seems no evidence is ever found as she starts to think it's too clean to be true, could someone on the inside be involved and who!!
I like Karen she's nice but stands her ground and is not a pushover at all

A scream from the nearby cathedral distorted the attention of Detective Karen and her partner
Mike Harrington. When they arrived where the scream came from they found a dead man with a
bloody cross written on his forehead inside the cathedral. Not long enough, They received a
message claiming they are the culprit and calling themselves “the Cleanser”. Then another
crime was committed and this summons a new team to investigate the case as well. The new
team was lead by the person she was told to avoid. This leads Karen to think that a conspiracy
is going to happen or they are linked to the killings. There is a lot of things that Karen is facing,
the killings, the possible corruption at their office, her relationship with Mike, and last is her
unsettling feeling caused by the deaths of her daughter and husband. She was determined to
solve it all as she sees herself as a person who got nothing left to lose. It was all good but the
story gave a vibe as if it is something that you had already seen or read.

It was well-written and had an awesome plot as it was not disclosed until everything was made
clear. The plot had everything in the story made sense. Maybe it is just me but the story made
me felt it was tiresome. I don`t loathe it, I love the flow, on how the characters portrait their roles,
and especially its genre. But it was all mundane when combined with the story.

Very well developed characters and an extremely engaging story. Well thought out and very suspenseful story line that keeps the reader guessing until the final twist! This is the book to read this year! Highly recommended!

This series just gets better and better! This is the 5th book of the Karen Hart series and shouldn’t be read on its own. Whilst you could pick this up as a stand-alone book, I highly recommend that you read the preceding 4 books to understand the characters and background story, as this book concludes an ongoing storyline arc that began in Book 1 of the series.

This book picks up 3 months after the conclusion of Book 4. Karen and her colleagues’ workloads are stretched due to events that were revealed in previous books. As a result, Karen must work with a different SIO and team to investigate a gruesome murder. This story is a page turner, with some hunches confirmed and a twist that was really good. This story grabbed me from the first paragraph and was easy to read in one sitting. As a reader of the series, I was intrigued to see how this story enfolded and wasn’t disappointed.

I’m so glad that the Author has chosen to wrap up a long standing storyline without stretching it out into further books. I’m really looking forward to reading the progression of the characters and the crimes they solve for the rest of the series. I highly recommend this series if you’re a fan of the genre.

Thank you to the Author, Publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a complimentary digital ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing and giving an unbiased opinion of an eARC of this story.

This is the fifth book in the Detective Karen Hart series and another gripping police procedural thriller from D. S. Butler. This time a serial killer calling himself ‘ The Cleanser’ is murdering random people who have nothing in common or do they? Can they be linked to another case under investigation or even the rumours of a police conspiracy? With no clues or evidence left behind Karen has a very difficult task to find the perpetrator of these horrific crimes. Fast paced and well written with compelling characters this book will have you guessing until the end.

This book is brilliant. It’s quite fast paced and keeps you guessing the whole way through. You are given just enough to make you question characters and their behaviour and there are plenty of twists towards the end.
I really liked how there are two storylines to this book. The murders and the police corruption. That ending completely surprised me.
For me everything flowed really well and not once did anything feel like it didn’t fit.
I enjoyed it so much I want to go back to the first book and read the rest in order.

This is the first DS Butler Novel I have read, so even though it was #5 in the Karen Hart series it was still readable as a stand alone.
Karen is still grieving the loss of both her husband and daughter. While out on a date with her current boyfriend Mike, they hear a scream in the cathedral and go to investigate. A brutal murder awaits them, gruesome and with biblical overtones. Her team take on the case, but as the head of the team wakes up the next morning with a note slipped under his door from the alleged killer, sighting himself off as The Cleanser, he is taken off the case and Karen works with the new detectives assigned to the case. She doesn’t get on with the boss, and has suspected him in being one of the leaders in the corruption case that has unfolded in a previous book. Nothing about the murders that ensue make sense, there is no link that they can find. Do we have a serial killer that is just taking randoms as he see’s fit, or is there something much sinister going on.
An excellent plot, I enjoyed the wondering and guessing of how it all came together, and am certainly going to read the previous Karen Hart stories. Recommended reading.
Thanks to Netgalley and Amazon publishing UK for allowing me to read this novel in return for an honest review.

Read the jacket cover for a synopsis, it covers the basic story. I haven't read all the books in the series and had no problem reading this one as a stand alone. It is a quick read, faced paced and full of excellent. dialogue and action. A page turner that is hard to put down. An added bonus is it is not full of gorey scenes and has no steamy bedroom scenes or foul language. A really good police procedural mystery read.
I was provided an advanced reader copy of the book and was under no obligation to provide a review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book.

A detective story set in and around Lincoln, in the Uk. The main detective is Karen Hart . It starts with a body being discovered in Lincoln cathedral . It took me around a third of the book to get into the story, it did not really grab me and the converstaions between characters were rather lacklustre. I did not particularly care for any of the characters either. Beside the murders, there are a couple of other stories running through the book, the death of a young boy on a bike in a hit and run and an investigation into police corruption. These seemed to not to connect, though as the book progressed, the relevance of each became more apparent.
As I got more into the book, I liked it better and grew to like the characters more as well. Although the conversations were still somewhat mundane at times, this did not irritate me as much ! By the last few chapters the book became a real page nturner and I couldn't put it down . This is number 5 in the series and at first I was probibly at a disadvantage that I have not read any of the others (with little knowledge of the individual detectives) but as the book progressed this became less of an issue and the book is fine to read as a stand alone. Now having complted the book, my opinion is that it is a great read and I shall look out for others by this author
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

This is a great series. D.S. Butler pulls you right in. I won't redo the summary of the book, the publisher always does a great job of that. This is what I like about the series. Strong main character Detective Karen Hart . The plot in this book, body in a church with cross cut on his forehead...another body...serial killer? A lot of books can start with a great plot (like this one) but to keep you engaged and thinking about the book while you are doing other things..in my eyes that makes a good mystery. A writer has to develop the characters enough for me to want to continue with a series. This is book 5 and I'm grabbing book 6 when it is published. Thank you NetGalley!

This Series just gets better and better and D.S Butler is fast becoming one of my favourite crime authors. This is book five in the series, it can be read as a stand-alone but best read in order or at least after book four. There is so much going on in the book that I can't begin to say how gripping and thrilling it is. Highly recommend

To begin, I’d like to thank Amazon Publishing UK for sending me an ARC of this book, and to NetGalley for facilitating. And a HUGE thank you to D.S Butler for writing this- as always - an absolute pleasure.

As always there will be no spoilers in this review.

I make no secret of the fact that I am an immediate reader of D.S Butlers books. And by that I mean I set reminders in my calendar for publication dates so that I can get reading as soon as they’re released! So I was over the moon to see this title on NetGalley and get to read it before my preorder was delivered!

I’ve been following Detective Karen Hart through the 4 previous books so I obviously feel quite invested in her story now and all of the characters within it which meant I felt this book HARD!

What an amazing book this was! And it really did make me feel the full spectrum of emotions. I felt joy, frustration, rage, sadness, humour. Really - this book had it all.

The characters are so well written with brilliant continuity that I feel like I know them and I feel emotionally invested in their outcomes.

As always, the story itself is so tense and exciting, mysterious and chilling. I honestly couldn’t put this down. My only fear is that somehow this will be the end of the DS Hart series - just because of how well certain things were wrapped up. But perhaps thinking about it - there is room for more within the wrapping up of things.

A perfect read once again D.S Butler - keep them coming... please!

On Cold Ground by D. S. Butler, (DS Karen Hart #5) brings a sense of closure for one of the most devastating experiences in the personal life of Detective Karen Hart. She has tried to find the answers to the corruption within her department that caused the death of her husband Josh and young daughter, Tilly. The answers she has earnestly sought are revealed as she solves a new serial murder case.
Karen is on a winter walk with Mike, and she hears a scream of distress as she nears the Lincoln Cathedral. She rushes in to find Eunice upset saying "He's dead!" and pointing inside the chapel of the cathedral. Detective Karen Hart goes inside and finds the body of a man on the floor laying between the pews. He has been murdered.
This starts a fast-paced investigation and three more victims. Detective Karen Hart not only has a murder investigation, but she must be willing to work with Churchill and two members of his team as they replace Morgan. She must find the link between all the victims to pursue a suspect who calls himself The Cleanser. Karen will be deeply affected by the death of one of the murder victims, and it is sad for readers who have read the other books in the series.
Publication Date: March 25, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Christmas is on the horizon and there is snow in the air. DS Karen Hart is off duty enjoying a day in the centre of Lincoln with new boyfriend Mike. As they walk close to the cathedral a scream breaks the relaxed atmosphere and Karen finds herself the first responding office at the scene of a grisly murder. With not a lot to work with Karen is horrified when a threatening letter linked to the investigation is received and a new team begins working on the case.

When a second body is found, with obvious similarities to the first victim, Karen's worst fears are confirmed, a serial killer is operating on her patch and they have no idea who's responsible. As she locks horns with her new boss and tries to stay on top of everything happening around her Karen begins to wonder who she can really trust but no one guesses just how close to home this investigation will come.

This is an excellent series with a great main protagonist; Karen has been written sympathetically and grown with each investigation. Her life after her devastating losses has gradually become more positive and in this instalment is in a new relationship which adds a new dimension to her story. There is a great deal happening in this book and it was a very satisfying read with both new and familiar characters having an influence on the outcome.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it's a great read.

First book I have read by the author but very impressed. I received this as a review copy from NetGalley so many thanks to them and the publisher. Detective Hart is an excellent character and a very good detective. Unfortunately I did not read the books in order so am not aware of the back story except what is referenced within this book. This was a very easy read and kept me hooked until the end when all was revealed. I will now add previous books to my list for further reading as I have noticed I have four more in the series on my NetGalley shelf. Would recommend this book as a stand alone but I think in hindsight it would be better to read in the order of issue. I knocked a star off my rating as there was a slight hint of inevitability about the ending but maybe on reflection this may just be me being overly critical

On Cold Ground is book number 5 in the Detective Karen Hart series by D S Butler and after feeling that the previous book didn’t quite hit the mark this is a return to form with a well paced, page turning, police thriller that seems to complete the arc of the series.

Recommended

I would like to thank Netgalley and Amazon Publishing UK for an advance copy of On Cold Ground, the fifth novel to feature DS Karen Hart of the Lincolnshire Police.

Karen is enjoying a rare day off when she hears a scream from the cathedral, a man has been founded murdered in the chapel with a cross carved into his forehead. Then DI Morgan receives a letter from the killer, signed The Cleanser, which hints at more to come. Are they hunting a potential serial killer? Karen’s job is made more difficult by the arrival of the unpleasant DCI Churchill to take over the case and the lack of progress in the Force’s ongoing corruption investigation.

I thoroughly enjoyed On Cold Ground which is an engrossing procedural with a few interesting and unexpected twists. It is told from two points of view, Karen and the unidentified killer, referred to by the code name Sparrow. For once I enjoyed this juxtaposition as Sparrow is no run of the mill killer as he has another agenda. His point of view is engaging and absorbing and compares with Karen trying to catch him and meeting opposition at every turn, mostly in the form of DCI Churchill who seems to delight in thwarting and belittling her.

The plot isn’t overly complicated- work out the motive, find the killer and arrest him. Easier said than done with little in the way of forensics, or any kind of clues. It is, however, absorbing reading with this plot line and the corruption case that has been part of the entire series still bubbling away in the background. The big action scene at the end takes a bit of swallowing but it’s exciting and fitting. I like the easy, clear writing style that makes it all simple to understand and follow.

On Cold Ground is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.

Having read the first two in the series, I’d not read the last two, so I wondered if this would work for me but I’d no need to worry. This is an excellent tail that while it does hark back to what’s happened previously in the series it works perfectly well as a stand a lone too. . A body is found in the Morning Chapel in Lincoln Cathedral and Karen is first on the scene. What follows is a brilliantly executed tale that cleverly mixes the main and subplots. A totally unputdownable read

Thank you Netgalley and D.S. Butler for the advance copy. Yet another amazing Detective Karen Hart thriller. Karen is out with her new man Mike when they hear a scream coming from Lincoln Cathedral. She discovers the body of a man with a cross cut into his forehead. As the investigation begins another body is discovered with the same markings. It looks like they are looking for a serial killer. Karen is also involved in a Police corruption investigation. Absolutely brilliant read.

This is the fifth book in the Karen Hart series and another excellent read. I stumbled across this series on my Kindle at the end of last year and was excited to see a new addition.

The story begins with Karen being first on the scene at a murder. This transpires to be the first in a series of brutal killings carried out by 'The Cleanser', a killer who seems to take a sadistic pleasure in his ability to remain undetected.

The ongoing threads of police corruption carry on throughout this book with one of the officers previously accused of corruption being brought alongside Karen to work on the case.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and, once I'd started, found it difficult to put it down. The characters worked as well as ever and the conclusion felt satisfying, although a tad rushed.

I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for supplying an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Karen is now back from her extended leave, and while hesitant to be back she knows she has to get back in the

Proverbial saddle or she'll never return. What she's not expecting is what initially appears a basic murder that soon turns into a cereal. nor does she understand just how much she herself is being followed and tracked. While she tries to keep her brother's murder case alive, she's fighting to keep control of her current case and to not make further damage to her career. This is one of the better books in the series, don't miss it.

Another gripping read from D S Butler and Det. Karen Hart.
The Cleanser is cleaning up and Det. Hart has the job of trying to solve the case.
Meanwhile Karen Hart is still trying to get to the bottom of the deaths of her husband and daughter and finding out who are the "dirty" Police Officers.
Great read and can't wait for the next instalment

Complex police thriller featuring detective Karen Hart and her team. Good characters and an intriguing storyline,with some twists.

A member of the police force becomes an assassin serial killer to appease a high ranking senior officer. The killer starts to enjoy the killings and adds his own brand to the killings. A great read, well recommended

This is the fifth book in the Detective Karen Hart series and it just keeps getting better. Set in and around Lincoln, with good character development and an absorbing plot to follow. Karen is investigating a series of murders, a hit and run as well as police corruption. I enjoyed the read, it's not complicated and can be read as a stand alone. A really good author to follow. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

Another great book in this series! So much is discovered in this book. (Read the others in the series if you haven't yet) You won't be disappointed.

A very good book with a gripping storyline that keeps you interested and guessing to the end, with characters full of depth.

Detective Karen Hart is back! And this time, the case will lead her on a path that will try her patience. Upon finding the body of a man murdered and mutilated with a cross on his forehead, she finds herself scrambling for clues to no avail. A note has been sent by someone called “The Cleanser” telling her that he is just getting started. And more murders begin to happen.

I found myself trying to figure out who the murderer was, but then as more clues were given, I was back at zero. The characters are very well defined and there were one or two characters I could have done without only because they were so hateful. However, that’s what made the story so intriguing and suspenseful.

My recommendation to you is this: although it’s a must read, please read the rest of the Karen Hart series in order to understand the character! Thank you to #NetGalley for providing me with AC! Looking forward to the next D.S. Butler book!

It’s purely coincidence that DI Karen Hart is first on scene when a man is murdered in a church, a cross crudely carved into his forehead. The police soon receive a message from the killer, who calls himself the Cleanser, and it’s apparent that the killer is just getting warmed up. Struggling with the investigation, Karen finds herself saddled with a difficult new officer and begins to wonder if the stories she’s hearing about police conspiracies and involvement in the case have any merit. This series is excellent, it’s a British police procedural that ticks all the boxes and has the bonus of a troubled and believable heroine

Good British police procedural featuring corrupt officers as murderers. What is is believed to to be believed to be ritual killings that seemed to have no ties all lead back to one of their own. Karen is determined to not only solve the murders but root out the corruption that saw her lose her husband and daughter.

This is the 5th book in a detective series but can be read as a stand alone.

Normally the bad guy is on the outside….

This is a different approach to detective stories. A little far fetched but entertaining. Well written and easy to get engrossed in.

Detective Karen Hart is a great character.
Exciting plot with enough intrigue to keep you engaged.
Definitely recommend reading the series in order.
Solid police procedural series that will keep you guessing and wondering.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

This is only my second DS Karen Hart. Since this is a police procedure story, I figure ~ find the killer and arrest him/her ~ so was sure I was okay with the basic back ground info I got from Book #4 "House of Lies"; although I normally prefer to follow a series in order.

This story starts with DS Karen Hart on a rare day off; she hears a scream from the cathedral. She investigates and finds a man dead in the Morning Chapel of Lincoln Cathedral. He has been killed and has a carving of a cross into his forehead.
Soon after, she and her partner Mike Harrington get a letter from the killer signed “The Cleanser”. They are fearful more killing are about to happen. Does the killer know his prey? Is this the beginning of a series of ritual killing?
Karen is given a hard time as to whether she can do her job. We know that her husband Josh and daughter Tilly were killed, so many believe she needs time off and grief counseling.

Story is told from the POV of Karen and the killer ~ code name Sparrow. This totally kept me guessing

I was into this story immediately. There are few other cases going on and I wasn’t sure if that is just what normally happens or of there were connected. Hmmm

This was a good story that kept me interested. It was a 3 stars read (I personally believe 3 stars = good)
However, it got more exciting in the last part and I loved the ending so 4 stars for me!! (BTW: 4 = Great!}

I am looking forward to the next in this series!
Personal Note: You have no idea how much I enjoy a story that doesn’t include nasty f-bombs and ugly profanity! Aww D.S. Butler~ you are my hero!!!

Want to thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for this early release granted to me for an honest professional review. Australian Edition Publishing Release Date scheduled for March 25, 2021

Karen Hart is a Detective Sergeant at the local Police Department. She is involved in the investigations of a series of murders performed by an individual who calls himself “The Cleanser”. Each victim was strangled and had a cross carved into his forehead. She was also looking into allegations of Police misconduct and corruption along with the case of a twelve year old boy killed in a hit and run. It is a procedural and really well done. The plot is complex and the frustrations of the detectives believable, as were the political workings of their department. Thanks to Net Galley and Thomas and Mercer for an ARC for an honest review.

335 pages

3 stars

Let me begin by saying that the story line of this book took a turn that I personally did not appreciate.

Aside from that, it is a pretty good book. The characters are well developed and interesting (some more than others). All in all, it is a good addition to the series.

I want to thank NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for forwarding to me a copy of this book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I really enjoyed this murder mystery book. The characters are very likable and you really understand their team work to solve the crime.
Karen is a detective that is grieving for her husband and daughter. Morgan is the team lead and her really watches out for his team.
A hit and run bike accident leaving a teenager dead, a man strangled in a church with a cross on his forehead starts the journey to learn how these people were killed. As the bodies keep turning up it looks like a serial killer and they might be closer than you think.
Thank you Netgalley for complimentary copy

Review of eBook

Detective Sergeant Karen Hart, first on the scene of a gruesome murder in the Morning Chapel, a small chapel within Lincoln Cathedral. The body of a man, Lloyd Nelson, bore ligature marks across the front of his neck. And the figure of a cross, carved into his forehead, suggested some manner of a ritualistic killing.

As Karen investigates, a letter purportedly from the killer [signed “The Cleanser”] indicates that this is the first of many killings. Soon enough, there’s another killing, carried out in the same way and with the cross cut into the victim’s forehead. And then a letter left on the doorstep of the lead investigator causes a shuffle in assignments and brings the difficult Detective Inspector Churchill to the Lincolnshire Police and splits up the investigating team.

The officers, caught up in investigating the serial killer murders, are also involved in the investigation of a hit-and-run involving a young bicyclist, hit by a car and left by the side of the road to die as the motorist drove away. And there’s still the hint of corruption within the department.

Is there a conspiracy within the police ranks? Will The Cleanser strike again before the police find him? And will the conspiracy claim more officers before they expose the corruption at last?

Fifth in the Detective Karen Hart series, this intriguing police procedural brings well-developed, believable characters into a complex plot. There is sufficient backstory for readers new to the series for “On Cold Ground” to work as a stand-alone, but with several plotlines coming from previous books, readers may want to start at the beginning of the series.

As in previous books, Karen continues to try to come to terms with the death of her husband, Josh, and daughter, Tilly, several years earlier. This backstory gives depth to the character; readers may find themselves empathizing with Karen as the story unfolds. Time, as they say, helps; however, she now seems a bit compulsive in her determination to

There are several unexpected plot twists that readers may not see coming; some surprising revelations change things for many of the characters involved in the telling of the tale. Readers who enjoy police procedurals, as well as fans of the series, will find much to appreciate here.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this eBook from Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley
#OnColdGround #NetGalley

On Cold Ground
D.S. Butler
March 25, 2021

DI Karen Hart has gone through through gamut when her husband, Josh and daughter, Tilly died in a car accident. As it turned out this was no accident, they were intentionally run off the road by someone from the department. All had thought that the killer was arrested but those in the upper ranks began investigations for more conspiracy within the department. The inquiry was converted among upper ranks so Hart was not aware of further coercion. She was back in the force attempting to pull her life back together, dating Mike, a former police officer. After dinner and wine at the Christmas Festival they walked past a beautiful cathedral. The sun was setting while taking the long way to their flats. Suddenly cries of fear were heard from the chapel. They saw a woman running out the door screaming about a body and blood. Karen went into police mode to investigate. Mike held guard at the entrance prohibiting further attendance. She found a man in his 30s, lying on under a pew in the darkened chapel.
This book is #5 in the Karen Hart series by D.S. Butler. It takes place in England. On Cold Ground is a detailed chronicle of a week of murder and suspence. It’s very well written and holds the reader on edge. As I had not read any books in the series, I found it a bit dry in the beginning trying to get a feel for the storyline. It didn’t take long to be drawn in. I too was intrigued by the suspense and tension involved. On Cold Ground by Karen Hart will be published byThomas and Mercer on March 25, 2021. I appreciate the publisher allowing me to read and review Butler’s latest novel. As many English mysteries are, it is filled with character information and plot elements. It is excellent and although it is the last of the Harper series it can be read as a stand alone. Enjoy!

This is the first book I've read in the Detective Karen Hart series, and I doubt it will be the last. D.S. Butler keeps the pace of the book moving quickly, and throws in enough twists to keep you guessing until the very end.
The story follows Detective Hart as she investigates seemingly unrelated murders, and eventually uncovers a serieal killer - 'the Cleanser'. As she follows the killers clues, she begins to suspect everyone around her - not sure who she can trust and who might be a corrupt officer working against her.
I'd recommend this series to anyone looking for an easy, interesting mystery that they won't be able to put down.

Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for my ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I discovered the Detective Karen Hart series through Kindle Unlimited and was excited to read “On Cold Ground.” The main investigation in the book is the search for a ritualistic killer who calls himself “The Cleanser.” In addition to this creepy case, the storyline regarding possible corruption at high levels of the Lincolnshire police continues from the first three books of the series.

The book is fast-paced and I really enjoyed it. The main characters are likable, especially Karen and her boss, Scott. However, I hated that for much of the book, another less likable team of detectives were brought in on the investigation. It fits in with the plot, but one character in particular is overbearing and unfair and it’s not pleasant to read. Karen doesn’t know who to trust which makes solving the murders even harder. It also adds a level of foreboding and danger to an already suspenseful story. Many surprising revelations are made as the story progresses and the book has an ending I didn’t anticipate. I highly recommend this series and think fans of Lisa Regan or Caro Ramsay would enjoy it. I would rate the book 4.5 stars, but be aware that this book has spoilers for the prior books in the series, so it might be best to start at the beginning.

I received this ebook from NetGalley through the courtesy of Thomas & Mercer. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

This is the fifth in the Karen Hart detective series; it is the second one I have read. On a cold winter night, a body is discovered in Lincoln Cathedral. The victim has been strangled and a cross was etched into his forehead. After the murderer sends a note to Karen’s DI, her team is split up and a new DCI and team join Karen in the investigation. This new DCI seems to have it in for Karen. Could he be part of the corruption that has haunted the department? After a second body is found, it seems there may be a ritualistic serial killer at large. Is Karen in danger?

Told from two points of view, Karen’s and the killer’s, this book is fast paced, with tight writing and likable protagonists. Fans of British police procedurals will enjoy this story, as well as others in the series.

If you have been following DS Karen Hart, this is truly the book you’ve been waiting for. Answers arrive at last! While I can’t say I was guessing until the very end, there were enough red herrings to keep things interesting! I love the characters! I am already looking forward to what waits DS Hart in her next case! If you haven’t read the series, start at the first and read as fast as you can!!!

Did not like the story it was not interesting! Sorry! I received the book free from NetGalley. I thank you but the book didn't capture my interest!

I am a big fan of British mysteries and I liked this one a lot until the reveal. It was just unbelievable and a little absurd. Without giving away the plot, I felt the author’s explanation, and it was lengthy, lacked rationality. There was apparently another book which preceded this one with the same cast of characters, so not having read it, I felt lacking. Sorry for the negativity but this thriller did not thrill.

What a great mystery series. Both the author and the series is new to me but I will surely read all and any future books in which DS Karen Hart is on the case. The plot is well thought out, the dialog very realistic and the characters true to life. Because it is so well written, it is even possible to imagine the look on a character’s face as they are delivering a sarcastic or humorous comment, which is a testament to the author’s command of the King’s English. DS Hart is written as a very accomplished detective but when the occasion calls for it, shows her emotional side which enables the reader to see her flaws. This is a very engaging novel and is unreservedly recommended. My thanks to NetGalley for, again, introducing me to a enjoyable new author. Always something a voracious reader appreciates.

It's Christmas week but DCI Karen Hart is faced with one of the most challenging cases. of her career. Three victims, strangled with a cross carved into their foreheads. She and her team can find no connection between them and no apparent motive for the disturbing crimes. To further complicate the case, the "cleanser" is sending letters with false allegations. As Karen continues to dig she begins to suspect that the answer lies "closer than you think" This crime thriller focuses on methodical police work, following up leads and checking back story and alibis for suspects with no graphic violence or language as many readers prefer. The characters, not all of whom are likable are well developed and realistic. The plot held my interest until the unexpected reveal of the culprit and dramatic conclusion. A solid fifth entry into this ongoing series. If you enjoy police procedurals you should add this to your shelf.

4.25 Stars
When Detective Karen Hart hears a scream echoing out of beautiful Lincoln Cathedral one snowy evening, she is the first officer on the scene. In the chapel a man lies murdered, a bloody cross carved into his forehead. The twisted killing sends this close-knit community into shock. And a note to the police from the murderer, signed by ‘The Cleanser’, confirms their worst fears: this sadistic slaying is the first of many. When early leads become dead ends, Karen starts to wonder if there’s a link to a rumoured conspiracy within police ranks—particularly when an abrasive new officer DCI Churchill, is assigned to the case. Meanwhile, she is battling her own demons as she struggles to come to terms with the deaths of her husband and daughter.
This is the fifth book in this enthralling series, it could be read on its own but with a series this good I’d recommend reading from the start. I was once again drawn in from the start & engrossed until the end. There were twists & turns, surprises & red herrings. Karen meets opposition from everywhere especially Churchill who I thoroughly disliked as he tries to belittle her. There is the ongoing thread of corruption which added another depth. I look forward to more
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

I enjoyed this suspenseful story. This is a newer author for me and I can't wait to see what is next. This is a well developed story that has twists and turns that kept me turning pages to the end. I had no problems relating to the characters as they brought the story to life. This is a story about a killer who will stop at nothing and a determined detective to find him. Will the detective figure out this case before it is too late? I really enjoyed this book and what the characters brought to the story. I am glad I picked up this book. I highly recommend it.

I enjoyed On Cold Ground. This is the first Karen Hart book in the series that I have read, but I will look for more of them. It's an easy read and is a good police procedural as Karen and the other investigators try to find what appears to be a serial murderer. There are plenty of red herrings to keep you guessing and the ending isn't too predictable. The characters are interesting and the relationship between them seems realistic.

"On Cold Ground" is a fitting addition to the series. A seemingly random murder strikes close to home when the killer leaves a note at the home of DI Morgan, addressed to Morgan and suggesting that there will be more victims. Morgan has to be removed from the case, but DS Hart, being the first officer on the scene, manages to keep herself and Sophie on the case. However, with Morgan off the case and the team facing a heavy workload, another group of investigators are brought in to assist. The new lead detective, DI Churchill, is an obnoxious, arrogant jerk. Even worse, Churchill may be one of the corrupt officers that DS Hart has been helping to investigate.

The author utilizes the behavior of Churchill and the tension caused by Hart's suspicion quite effectively to keep the reader guessing. It is made evident to the reader early on that someone in the police department or connected to the police is involved in the killings (though clearly not Churchill). There is a character whose behavior is suspicious and will make the reader wonder if he is involved, although the possible motive is unclear. The corruption investigation is involved, but not in the way that one might expect. The reason for the murders is sad and infuriating, and the story involves the death of a prominent character. The actions and ulterior motive of the killer are quite creative.

I received a copy of the e-book via NetGalley in exchange for a review.

My thanks to NetGalley and publisher Amazon Publishing UK for the electronic copy.

This is Book#5 in the Karen Hart series, but reads well as a standalone as you soon catch up with the back-stories. It's well-written, with good, rounded characters and believable dialogue as a police procedural.

DS Karen Hart and her boyfriend Mike are enjoying the Lincoln Christmas market, unaware that they are being watched very closely. The watcher - "Sparrow" knows that Karen is the most dangerous of the pair - his boss, "Eagle", had told him so.
A scream from the Cathedral pulls Karen into a crime scene where the body of Lloyd Nelson, a member of the Cathedral choir, lies between the pews of a side chapel; he has ligature marks around his neck and a cross incised on his forehead. DI Morgan, together with Karen and PC Sophie Jones form the main investigative team. Is this a hanging gone wrong or a ritual killing?
When Morgan receives a note written by the killer, delivered to his home, there is no choice but to remove him from the enquiry.. "The Cleanser" knows his name and address and the note suggests that Lloyd had been punished for his "sins".
A new team is brought in headed by DCI Churchill - a name Karen is well aware of in connection with the major police corruption enquiry which is ongoing and to which she is privy because of her own personal tragedy.
Karen and Sophie are side-lined from the main investigative work.
The body of a 27yr-old woman is found by her sister bearing the same marks as Lloyd. Another note is delivered, this time to the home of the new team's DS.
Can Karen find any connection between these 2 victims - they appear to be random, but are they?

Lots of red-herrings and a major twist which I didn't see coming.

This is a really good story. I love the characters, especially their interactions - Sophie with her avid reading of American serial killers, the protective and caring nature of Karen's and Morgan's relationship.
The only downside I found was that there was a lot of narrative where Karen's thoughts are mused upon and, in my opinion, this also led to perhaps unwarranted assumptions which of course served to move the investigation forward but, well, not too believable.

Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book when Officer Karen Hart hears a scream, she goes into the church to find a dead body. When more individuals are found murdered, it will be up to Karen to find the connection. This book kept me guessing.

I’d like to thank Amazon Publishing UK and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘On Cold Ground’ book five in the DS Karen Hart series and written by D S Butler, in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

As DS Karen Hart is walking around Lincoln Cathedral she comes across the body of Lloyd Nelson. DI Morgan is heading the investigation but is taken off the case when he receives a letter from a man who calls himself ‘The Cleanser’ describing why he’s killed Nelson. When ‘The Cleanser’ chooses more victims Karen has difficulty in finding the connection between them and having the unlikeable DCI Churchill take charge makes her job even more difficult.

‘On Cold Ground’ is another gripping police thriller in the DS Karen Hart series which I’m glad to say I’ve enjoyed more than the previous one. It has an interesting and complex plot with so much intrigue, suspense and twists and turns that I found it impossible to solve the identity of ‘The Cleanser’. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading more of Karen Hart as she works with DC Sophie Jones, and it’s good that her personal life is progressing so well following the loss of her husband and daughter. By the time I reached the conclusion I was so concerned with Karen and Sophie’s safety that I couldn’t stop reading and finished the book in twenty-four hours. This has been a thoroughly enjoyable and exciting thriller that I can definitely recommend and I’m looking forward to reading the next one.

This is the fifth book in a series. It was the first in the series that I read but I enjoyed book 5 so much I went back and downloaded the first four books. Karen Hart is a police officer, off duty, when she discovers a body in a cathedral. This is followed by a note to her boss signed "The Cleanser" and more murders. There is an internal investigation going on at the same time regarding police corruption and eventually it all comes together. I did not figure it out until close to the end which always makes an enjoyable mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon UK for my review copy.

Nice addition to the series, but a little difficult to follow for the uninitiated, and not really strong enough to make me want to go back and read them all. A little predictable.

4.75 stars

This is the fifth book in the DS Karen Hart detective series by D.S. Butler.

I’ll tell you one thing. I definitely found a new series to follow. As soon as I finished this I went out and bought the first three books of the series.

This was very well written. I could see myself in Karen’s place having to deal with all the nonsense that goes on in this book and found the entire experience fascinating. There is just so much to like her. I love Karen and her boss DI Morgan really resonated with me too. I can’t wait to read a book where they really get to work together. This one has Karen as sort of a lone woman getting the job done even though the new team that comes in is blocking her at every turn.

That DCI Churchill, dang, hate him. What a good foil for Karen! He is just a butt head in order to be a butt head and have control. I wouldn’t be surprised if he popped up in future books too.

The cast here is just stellar. I felt like I was watching a movie and just couldn’t get enough of it. Karen just felt real and I felt her pain just going through the normal every day things in life.

Just so much to love about this series I can’t get enough.

Highly recommended. Excellent book!

If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.

I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.

I am really enjoying this series and I found this time be a great addition. The mystery was gripping and the characters interesting. I'm looking forward to future books.

Although the fifth of the Detective Karen Blackwell adventures, it was this reader’s first encounter and thus more a standalone crime mystery. The story begins with a couple out walking of an evening at a Christmas Market, unaware they are being watched. A scream from the Lincoln Cathedral begins the murder investigation with a macabre signature left marking the victim. As the investigation evolves, other issues, including possible police force corruption or a seemingly unsolvable car crash arise. A gripping police procedural with great characters and engrossing mystery that deepens as the danger and body count mounts. It’s an outstanding crime novel with a minimum four-star must-read rating. With thanks to NetGalley and the author for a preview copy for review purposes. All opinions expressed herein are freely given and totally my own.

This is the first time I've read this author but am now interested in others in the series. Karen Hart is investigating some serial killings after being the one to find the first dead body. Each victim, besides being strangled, has a cross carved into his forehead. Soon notes start arriving to different officers claiming to be from "The Cleanser".

Lots of action and bonus points for being clean!

I’ve received this book from NetGalley. Det Karen Hart is walking home from dinner with her boyfriend when she hears a bloodcurdling scream from the cathedral a few steps away. Detective Hart becomes embroiled in a mysterious series of deaths. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. I found so invested in the book that I could not stop reading it. The author caught my attention right from the beginning and did not disappoint. I will now be obsessed until I read everything this author has written. It’s that good.

Thank you for the opportunity to read this book and giving my honest opinion. I have not read the other books in the series however I did like this book. This was a good read, with well-developed storyline and characters. I would recommend this book.

Another instalment of the fantastic Karen hart series. More corruption suspected within the team and a serial killer who seems to have religious connections wanting to cleanse his victims of their sins. A great read~ feels very much like the literary version of line of duty 5 stars ⭐️

On Cold Ground is an intriguing story about murders that appear to be a serial killer doings. The characters will keep you wondering who to trust. The pieces will finially start to add up.

On Cold Ground is the fifth instalment in the Detective Karen Hart series, set in and around the cathedral city of Lincoln. The prologue begins with DS Hart off duty and spending time with her boyfriend, Mike Harrington, who she had been seeing for 6 months. It's bitterly cold and they're strolling through the stalls at Lincoln Christmas Market not realising a man has been following them for the past 3 hours. Referred to as "Sparrow" he watches every move they make as ordered by his boss "Eagle". He spots them walking more briskly now towards the cathedral and refers to Karen as the dangerous one out of the pair. While walking past the west front of the cathedral Karen and Mike hear a bloodcurdling scream. It seemingly came from a middle-aged woman who Karen recognises as Eunice Greene, and she tells her that there is a body in the chapel. She had been sitting at her desk in the cathedral collecting fees from those who wished to explore inside as it helped with upkeep. Karen enters the Morning Chapel, while a shaken Eunice stays outside, and finds the body between the first and second pews. It was the corpse of a man with brown hair, greying at the temples. His forehead was a bloody mess; he had been mutilated and a cross etched into his skin hinting at a possible ritualistic killing. A ligature mark snaked around his neck indicating he was strangled. They soon discover that the body is that of 46-year-old Lloyd Nelson, a member of the amateur cathedral choir who practice there every Tuesday. Trust Karen to be in the right place at the right time on a leisure day to be the first on the scene of a gruesome and bloody murder. A short time later, DI Morgan, the lead investigator on the case, finds an envelope on his doormat that had been hand-delivered seemingly through the night.

Addressing him by name and referencing the handiwork at the chapel, it suggests Lloyd had many dirty secrets, such as beating his wife and embezzling money, and that now he had been cleansed of his sins, before being signed as "The Cleanser". Due to this Morgan must be removed from the investigation and Karen and PC Sophie Jones are assigned a new team with DCI Churchill at the helm, an insufferable, arrogant man who may be one of the corrupt officers that DS Hart has been looking into in a Major Corruption Enquiry that is still ongoing. It is believed these corrupt cops conspired to run Josh, Karen's husband, off the road killing both he and her daughter Tilly. There is also a current investigation into a hit-and-run where a young cyclist, 12-year-old Sam Pickett, was travelling home and left to die alone by the roadside. Then another body is found; this time of 27-year-old Laurel Monroe discovered by her sister at a motel. Can Hart and her team find the connection between these two victims and stop this ruthless serial killer? DS Butler has penned the most gripping and addictive instalment of the series so far and the complex, multilayered plot with several different but often converging strands holds you captive throughout. From beginning to end I was riveted by the intrigue, suspense and twists and turns aplenty and the liberal misdirection meant I couldn't figure out the serial killer's identity. With regards to the killer’s case, there is little in the way of forensics or solid evidence, the corruption case is still playing out and Karen continues to struggle with the loss of her husband and daughter. Told from Karen and the unidentified killer's perspectives, this is a fast-paced and enthralling read with an exciting, explosive and action-packed conclusion. Highly recommended.

The story is entertaining to read, and many ending issues come to a pleasant ends. A new characters is no nasty you want the bad guy. Karen Hart is assigned the unfriendly supervisor as his partner is sidelined by a threat of a serial murderer. As the surprise murders leads to extreme suspense, with two are possible deaths. This was a British procedure, but the action is very as good as it can be. It was exciting, suspense and entertaining. Even the story is a continuing episode, the narrative is enjoyable as a single episode.

I am loving this series, it gets better with each new book. It is a well written story that is fast paced but easy to follow. Looking forward to reading more

3.5 stars

On Cold Ground by D.S. Butler is the 5th in the Detective Karen Hunt series.

First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.


Series Background:    (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
DS Karen Hart lost her husband Josh and her daughter Tilly in a car accident.  She has recently discovered that it wasn't an accident, and that it had  been covered up by the police, and one of them someone she had trusted.  She is determined to find the corruption in the force.  She works with DI Scott Morgan,  DC Sophie Jones, and DC Rick Cooper.


My Synopsis:   (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
DS Hart is first on the scene to find a man laying dead in the chapel of Lincoln Cathedral, a cross carved into his forehead. He had been strangled.   Her boss, DI Morgan, receives a note signed by "The Cleanser", which seems to signify a ritual killing.

Since Morgan cannot work the case because he has been singled out,  DI Churchill takes over.  Unfortunately he is on Hart's list of those she feel may be corrupt....and they are not getting along.

When a second body turns up,  the team is trying to figure out how the victims are connected, but having no luck.

Meanwhile,  since Morgan is not allowed to work the case, he is trying to find the driver responsible for a hit and run where a young boy was killed.




My Opinions:   

I must admit to getting a little tired of the non-stop police corruption in these books.  It was getting really annoying, but of course it had to end at some point.

The plot was good though, and because there were such large arrows aimed at a couple of people, I knew the perpetrator must be someone else.

I love Morgan, and Karen, and Rick.  Sophie is rather annoying.  Mike seems to be a non-entity, and I could do without him.

However, the books are a fast and easy read, with everything laid out in the end, so that not much thought is required.  They are perfect reading for those times you finish a deep book, and couldn't possibly attack another.  So I'm looking forward to reading about Karen Hart's next case.

DS Karen Hart has been pushed through her life by the events that took her family. I'm glad that this book addresses that more directly than in the past. There is an actual commission working on the police corruption. Hart is taking up where she left off. She is working on her relationship with Mike. She is still learning from her mentor Anthony. She is supportive of her boss Morgan. Note how few other women she actually talks to. There are minor characters that are women. Many of the higher ups in the police force do seem to be women, but they have very small parts. It's a lazy way to have strong females in a story. And Sophie, who often comes of as a puppy dog who needs a lot of training, is there, too.

That aside, Karen Hart stumbles upon a murder while on a date. Mike gets tossed in exchange for the case and we don't see a whole lot of him after that. I'm OK with that. He hasn't grown much. Soon, it becomes clear that there is a serial killer at work. Bodies with the same markings are popping up and letters claiming they somehow deserved it soon follow. Finding what the people all had in common will be the key to discovering the murderer.

So, was it a compelling mystery? Maybe. I was pretty sure I had the murderer, the Sparrow, and the man behind it all, the Eagle, almost as soon as they were introduced. Is it compelling to read 60% of a book or so just to find out if your first impression was correct? Sometimes? I'm in no way claiming to be prescient or smarter than the average bear by figuring this out. The previous books have developed a pattern that this book just continued. So I noticed it. If you like comfort in a series, then this will probably not bother you. I am starting to feel like I am just reading the same story with minor changes. I think I would have liked the actual murder more in a different setting or with different characters. The story itself was OK.

I've been reading this series from the beginning and I hoped it had growing pains that it would eventually get past. The over explaining of everything, for example. How many books in before the author doesn't assume that the reader is really dense or capable of looking up something if they don't understand it or are unfamiliar with it? I have an internal voice, but I am seriously worried for the people if the police force has this internal monologue going all of the time and these long discussions about procedure they should not have to discuss every time. I'm honestly not sure how much longer I will stick with the series if it is going to be so repetitive.

Another solid crime novel from DS Butler. What made this stand out for me was the underlying sorry of corruption in the force in addition to the current crimes the tram is trying to solve. That tugged at my sense of police being good and kept me guessing who Karen could trust. While there were plenty of moving pieces, the story never felt too much. And while this is the 5th in the series, the author does a good job of filling in the previous information you need. But I highly recommend picking up this series from the beginning.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher, amazon publishing through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.

I haven't read any of the other books in this series and I don't think you really need to but it may be helpful. Detective Karen Hart is being monitored, she knows there is corruption in the police but she isn't sure who but they know who she is and are keeping an eye on her. As she struggles with the death of her daughter and husband Karen is being pressured to attend a support group from her new boyfriend and also stumbles upon a very strange case that appears to be a serial killer with but they can't find the connection between the victims. Between pushing her boyfriend away and finding herself immersed in a very odd murder investigation that begins to hit too close to home Hart finds herself not knowing who to trust or where to turn.

Not having read the other books I found that the author filled in the gaps for me fairly well and I didn't feel lost but I like seeing the evolution of a character so I wish I had picked up the others before this one. However I don't really think you need to read them to enjoy this one. This is a good solid police procedural with a mystery that keeps you guessing and on your toes. I had a feeling I knew who the mystery person was but when it was revealed I was wrong and that doesn't happen often so I was pleasantly surprised.

I now want to go back and start from the beginning of this series which given that I know the outcome of some of the books and it doesn't matter to me means I will probably keep following this author for a while.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and D.S. Butler for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

What a fabulous read.
I was hooked from beginning to end.

Well written, with an excellent storyline and a wonderful cast of characters.

Lots of twists and turns. A real page-turner.

I would highly recommend.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A ritual serial killer is out there killing people at random. So many twists and turns this book keeps you engaged and wanting to solve the murders. Although I have not read the other books in the series I did not feel lost. Well written with believable characters I would recommend this book to all who enjoy a police crime novels.

Detective Karen Hart and her crew of Lincolnshire police are back and trying to catch another serial killer. This time she has an annoying boyfriend, a new boss who seems to care too much, and a series of what appears to be ritual murders that don’t have much to tie them together – at least at first glance. Like the other novels in this series, we get to plumb the depths of how her mind works, examine the relationships among her co-workers, and try to figure out the killer’s identity and whether it could be one of Hart’s colleagues. If you aren’t yet a fan of Hart, you will still be drawn into the plot and the numerous quirky characters that populate her world. It is another finely drawn and evocative picture that will keep you reading up until the very dramatic ending, Highly recommended.

Detective Karen Hart can't get a break. On her day off, she's strolling after dinner past the Lincoln Cathedral with her "boyfriend" Mike Harrington. It's somewhat of an idyllic setting at Christmas time with flakes falling. Both are oblivious to a man furtively tailing them. He refers to himself as the "Sparrow" and acknowledges in soliloquy fashion that he answers to the "Eagle" . Mike annoyingly continues his relentless pursuit in trying to interest her in group grief counseling ... she has made it quite clear that it is not her style or desire. Her husband, Josh, and daughter Tillie were killed in a car accident in which their vehicle was forced off the road. Their peaceful walk is interrupted by a blood-curdling scream from inside the church. Karen runs into the church to encounter the frantic witness, who points to the chapel. Wedged between the pews is a male corpse with strangle marks around his neck and a bloody forehead where a cross-like mark has been crudely gouged. Her senior, Inspector Morgan soon arrives and assumes control of the investigation. Due to the ritualistic manner of the killing there is immediate concern for a serial killer. The victim is Lloyd Nelson, a member of the cathedral choir. The immediate suspect is his wife Beverly's ex-husband, Brett Wharton ... who already was required by the family court to attend anger management classes. Also in consideration, was Lloyd's boss, Ross Blundell ... young , tall , arrogant and the good-looking owner of Sparks Software Design. Lloyd recently had an argument with his boss, when he would not willingly let him take credit for his innovations. One morning, an envelope is slipped under the door of Morgan's house. Not only is it addressed to Morgan, but it is signed "The Cleanser" It intimates that Nelson had many secrets along with the deplorable behavior of beating his wife, embezzling money, and he needed to be "cleansed" of his sins. Morgan was immediately removed from the case, and was to be replaced by a new team headed by D.I.Churchill. A known detestable, smarmy and condescending officer, with a suspicious past history. He , along with other officers were secretly being investigated by a major corruption inquiry board. In fact, part of the allegations concerned Karen dearly. There was consideration that evidence was tampered with at the scene of her family's fatal accident. Another converging thread of investigation and possible linkage involved the hit-an-run murder of 12 year-old Samuel Pickett, while riding his bicycle down an isolated road.. Then the bodies start dropping... next is Lauren Monro whose corpse was discovered by her sister Nina Brown.... in a similar fashion there were ligature marks on the neck and a cross gouged into her forehead. Next, Karen's old retired boss and friend DCI Shaw was murdered in an identical fashion.
In spite of Churchil'ls condescending and belittling continual attack on Karen, she persists and deflty swims through the murky waters of clues and albis in an unflinching effort to seek justice.
D.S.Butler weaves a masterful police procedural with multiple twists and unexpected reveals that culminates in an explosive denouement. Her compulsive pacing is complemented by her rich character development that is both multi-dimensional and plausible. It is sincerely doubtful anyone will guess the identity of the villain. This gripping narrative is told from the perspective of both Karen and the unidentified assassin. Although this is the 5th outing for D.S. Hart, this novel can be enjoyed as a standalone because of the author's seamless entry of necessary back story.
Thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for providing an Uncorrected Proof of this riveting novel in exchange for an honest review. This is my fifty encounter with Detective Hart and will continue to eagerly await her next investigation.

On Cold Ground by D. S. Butler is the diabolical phycological thriller of for this year.
With strong female characters, some obnoxious know it all men, with some strong silent type men thrown into the mix. Some trying to cover up murders, and some trying to figure the murders out.
I never knew for sure “who done it” and was shocked at discovering the mastermind of it all.
Definitely would make an awesome movie!
Solid five stars.

On Cold Ground by D.S. Butler is a good mystery. Her characters have believable reactions. The story could go in many different directions and keeps the reader guessing until the end. Well done.

This is book 5 in this series and the first book I have read. I didn't feel that I needed to read the other 4 books before reading this one. There was enough background information given throughout the book.

DS Hart is at the Lincoln Cathedral with her boyfriend enjoying the Christmas festivities. Then she hears a blood curdling scream and finds a man who has been murdered and with what appears to be a cross cut into his forehead. The investigation team is taken on a crazy ride when a second body is discovered and there is no relationship between the victims.

On Cold Ground by DS Butler is an intriguing murder mystery, which appears to be a serial killer at work, but they're having to work too hard to connect the victims. One is a 12-year-old boy hit on his bicycle. He may not be part of it but it feels like he is. The other three don't seem to be connected but the manner of death is similar. Then there are the letters, seeming to be taunting the police. He mentor is on of the victims. That is too personal. Her direct supervisor has to recuse himself as one of the threats is to him. There has been police corruption and Karen had helped root it out and was even still part of the task force. How did this all fit together?

Karen carries a lot of baggage since her husband and daughter were killed in a car accident. She never had been sure if that had been part of the corruption or just a simple accident. It was sure suspicious. She was finally finding happiness again with Mike Harrington. In fact they had been at a Christmas Market when the first body was found. She was first on the scene. Mike went home alone. Mike was supportive and always available. That and this whole investigation was wearing on her until she didn't know which way to turn. Too many odd things. Too much to go wrong. It was a fabulous story with lots of red herrings and subplots. The characters were terrific, especially those in Karen's squad. It was a very convoluted story, rife with potential for terrible publicity and broken relationships. I recommend it.

I was invited to read a free ARC of On Cold Ground by Netgalley. All of the thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #oncoldground

4 stars / This review will be posted at BookwormishMe.com today.


In the continuing series of DS Karen Hart mysteries, this novel finds Karen still working on her corruption case, as well as being first at the scene in a grisly murder. It’s Christmastime and while shopping with her romantic partner Mike, she comes upon a man who has had his throat slashed and a cross carved into his forehead. Could it be the work of a ritualistic killer? As the man was found in a cathedral, it’s possible.

The team is also on the case of a hit and run murder of a small boy. No one has seen anything. Even after poring over endless footage of CCTV cameras in the area, there is no suspect. With these two murders the team is somewhat overtaxed. After a threatening letter is left on the DI’s doorstep, a second team from another precinct is brought in to help out. Karen is none too fond of the new DI that is taking over, as he’s been a suspect in her corruption case.

I have greatly enjoyed this series. Set in Lincolnshire, England, one can just imagine how pretty the area where the cathedral is located. These well written crime procedurals are fun to read, and the author does a good job of keeping the killer under wraps. My mind went from one character to another, never suspecting in the end, the true killer. I certainly hope this isn’t the end of the line for our DS Hart.

Karen Hart has had a rough time and has worked hard to move forward. However, when she is out one evening and stumbles upon a murder, things become even more difficult than she could have imagined. She is not sure who she can trust or where she can turn. She is not sure if one problem is related to another or separate events. She is in a race against time to uncover the truth before someone else gets hurt.

I really enjoyed On Cold Ground. As I read, I tried to make educated guesses as to what I thought was going on, and while I was partially right, I was also surprised, and that, to me, makes a good suspense novel. The story moved quickly and held my interest--I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next.

If you are a fan of D.S. Butler or psychological thrillers in general, this book is for you.

Thank you to the publisher and #NetGalley for the free copy. All opinions are my own.

I want to thank the publisher, author, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.

DS Karen Hart is out walking with her boyfriend when a scream comes from a local church. She finds a dead body with a cross etched on the man’s forehead. This investigation stretches the team of detectives, as they try to solve multiple investigations. When a threatening note appears, the team is separated and DS Hart is forced to work with a different team, which is lead by someone who might be ‘crooked’. As more deaths occur that seem to be related, the team is in a race to find a murderer.

There were many interrelated storylines in this book, with DS Hart as the main character. The chilling (and thrilling) conclusion puts the police force in an all-out attempt to save their own.

It took me a little while to read this book because I had a crazy work schedule for a couple of weeks. But once I was able to get into it, I finished it in just one setting.

While it was a little difficult to get into at first due to UK terminology differing from US terminology, it was an amazing read.

While I was suspicious of the one of the characters, I didn't expect the ending. This book had me on the edge of my seat as DS Hart and the rest of the team try to solve three grisly murders.

But how do they all connect? DS Hart is in the right path, but the powers that be make sure to pull the investigation in the way they want it to go.

An amazing author that I will have to read more of!

On Cold Ground by D.S. Butler is the fifth book in the Karen Hart series. Karen Hart’s station is investigating three different cases, a hit and run of a child, three murders that could be the work of a serial killer plus an internal investigation of corruption. What Karen doesn’t know is all these cases are connected. This is a great series and I’m looking forward to the next book. Thanks Netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

Wow what an exciting ending to a fabulous series. This is book 5 of the Karen Hart series. Karen has been on a real rollercoaster of emotions during this series even losing her beloved family. Karen will not give up on her work to discover who is behind the corruption ring after DI Freeman was found out Karen was determined to get the top person whoever that might be. I have thoroughly enjoyed following Karen’s life through the ups and downs. I give this book a well deserved five stars

Another great book in the Detective Karen Hart series
Thus book will have you on the edge of your seat and you won’t want to put it down
Can’t wait for the next in this series
Thanks NetGalley

Although this was the 5th book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. I have not read any of the other books in the series and really enjoyed this book.

Detective Karen Hart is first on the scene of a murder when she hears a scream and goes to investigate. A man’s murdered body lies in a chapel with a bloody cross carved into his forehead. A murderer known as ‘The Cleanser’ is on the loose and starts a series of brutal killings that appear to be a sadistic mission. Detective Karen Hart is on the case and there are hints and rumours that point to a police conspiracy within her colleagues. The case is a tough one with the added disruption of a very annoying senior officer.

This was an excellent read and had me reading late into the night unable to put it down. Exciting plot and the dialogue between the regular characters made this an enjoyable read.

Well, since I've only read #1 in the DS Karen Hart series, and this is #5, I felt a little lost in parts of this book. I feel like I definitely need to go back and read the previous books in the series since I really like the author's writing style, and Karen Hart is a well-rounded, intelligent character. I felt like I was missing part of her life and this book made me feel like a chunk of her character development was 'missing' and I needed to understand her more.

I enjoyed the guessing game in this one... the author does a great job of throwing a lot of characters out there as red herrings and you continue to think you have it figured out. Thankfully I didn't and I was left surprised at the end - twists are always welcome IMO.

I received an ARC of this compelling detective mystery. This is the next book in the Detective Karen Hart series. I was immediately immersed in the story. Great characters and a story that kept me guessing. Highly recommend!

Good read, the story line was good and characters all had believable personalities. Karen has just began to climb out of the darkness that losing her husband and daughter threw her in. She’s in a date and hears a scream. She finds a body with a cross carved into its head. From there she stops at nothing to catch this killer.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

Detective Karen Hart is on a date with her new boyfriend when she hears a scream from inside the Cathedral. Instantly alert, she finds the body of a murdered male with a cross carved into his forehead. There is a note alongside the body from "The Cleanser." Is this a ritual killing? Will there be others?

In addition, there is an investigation into high-level corruption in the police department. Is this related to the murders?

This is the second Detective Karen Hart mystery I have read and I look forward to others.

On Cold Ground is the fifth entry in the DS Karen Hart series, and I enjoyed it as it completed a secondary arc that began with the death of her husband and daughter a few years ago. I don't mind it when a story continues for several books, but I do have an issue when it drags on and on, and I was worried that something like that would happen in this series. Luckily, it all merged rather well, even if you have to kind of suspend your belief in what happened a little bit and just go with it.

I, for one, am glad that this book dealt with the police corruption far more openly that in previous books. When Karen's boss comes in the cross hairs of a killer, a new boss is brought in to deal with the situation, and unfortunately, the cliches began as soon as the man entered the building, the red herrings being so obvious I was sort of chuckling my way through them. This is such a common trope that it's getting old, fast. However, I do like the support that Karen gets from her various superiors as well as from other people as she tries to investigate the current case she is working.

Karen, herself, is far from perfect, and I usually tend to prefer my main characters flawed as it makes them more interesting. She is growing on me as a character and I think I am finally seeing some growth although I do feel there is still a lot more the author can do with her character. That being said, Karen did lose her family a little while ago, so it's understandable that she has trust issues and doesn't want to be pushed into doing things she is not yet ready for; grief is not something that ever goes away and I am grateful the author has taken this into consideration.

The other characters have a lot of potential that has not yet come to fruition, but the series is still developing and I am hoping they will have their moment to shine. I have always liked Sophie and I would like to see her become something more than someone who is portrayed as a 'yes man' and only interested in how she is perceived by others, someone who will stand up for herself and be more confident in her abilities.

The mystery itself wasn't too complicated, but I did find it interesting, and I like how it was interwoven with the corruption scandal. If you are someone who reads a lot of police procedurals, you will probably figure this out quite early in the book although the author does try to lay out some interesting twists and turns. It was more the motive that took me bit longer to figure out. The author has an easy style of writing that does tend to draw you in although some of the dialogue does tend to make me cringe.

On Cold Ground was one of those books that overall, I enjoyed very much, but when you take it apart, does have some problems. There were some plot lines I just had to grit my teeth over and go with them, but it made it easier to enjoy the book. I do think the characters need some development as they can be a bit one-dimensional and while I enjoy this author's writing style, the dialogue can be a bit stilted. Overall, a good book and one I would recommend.

Still reeling from deep personal loss and ongoing internal corruption investigaions, Detective Hart is alerted to, and first on the scene of a grizzly murder in a cathedral. Warning letters and subsequent murder suggest a serial killer is on the loose. Good police procedural and multiple twists keep the reader engaged.

Karen Hart finds a body one evening in the local Cathedral with cross carved in his forehead. This is the start of her chase after a serial killer. She has to regain the respect and loyalty of her fellow officers, which she has lost. This all leads to many questions she must answer. This all ends with a surprising killer.

Karen Hart has a rare day off! Whilst walking back from the Lincoln Christmas Market past the Cathedral she hears a scream. Someone has found a dead body. They have a rope around their neck & a cross carved into their forehead. What is the killer trying to tell them. When another body is found, killed in a similar fashion & a note from 'The Cleanser'. The killer seems to believe these people deserved to die. When DI Morgan gets a note from the killer, showing he knows his name & address he is taken off the case & the usual team is split up. The DI sent to lead the case is an unpleasant individual who Karen suspects might be part of the corruption within the force.

This is book 5 of the series. I seem to manage to read just odd numbered ones! It could be read as a stand alone though. It was an engaging story that kept me guessing. When I thought I'd worked it out along came another surprise. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.

WOW what an excellent ending!! Karen is part of a team looking into a hit and run and 3 murders. The murders are separated off into a new team. Boy is Churchill rather awful, isn't he. So not only is there the victims to figure out but the office politics is also front and center. I like that Karen just never gives up. Although she does seem to dream up some wild theories. I found the book entertaining with the twists and turns of the investigation. A very good story.

Excellent novel. This is number 5 in the series of Detective Karen Hart. She is searching for the murderer of 3 individuals and also a young boy that was killed by a hit and run. Great story of who done it. I usually don't like to start in the middle of a series but the story picked right up and the reader was not confused by what was happening. I will definitely read the other books in this series.

I really enjoyed this book. Character development was good. The plot was very interesting. Not a lot of typos.

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

First book I've read by this author and I really enjoyed it. This is the fifth book in a series involving Detective Karen Hart. I didn't feel like I missed anything by not reading the first 4 books. I will probably go back and read them. Karen Hart is at a Christmas fair with her boyfriend when she discovers a body in a church near the fair. As she starts investigating the murder, her superior receives a letter with some pretty serious allegations and hints that her superior may be next. Then, 3 officers from another precinct come in and take over the investigation in place of her superior. Karen and her partner, Sophie, do not like the head guy and come to find out that he is under suspicion of corruption within the police force. Then two more bodies are discovered. Are these bodies tied to the corruption? What about the hit-and-run accident which left a young boy dead? There are no obvious links but Karen and Sophie wonder if they are all connected. Either way, they are determined to find out who "The Cleanser" is.

Good storyline, great plot and good character development.

On Cold Ground by D.S. Butler was a fabulous read that had me totally gripped from the start.

This is the 5th book in the series featuring DS Karen Hart, set in Lincolnshire and I picked up the series with Don't Turn Back (book 3) which I also thoroughly enjoyed. The fantastic plot-line and brilliant characters made On Cold Ground a superb tale that held me captive throughout.

With innumerable twists and turns, guessing the identity of the perpetrator was nigh on impossible and the swift pacing meant there was no room for boredom or tedium. It was an impeccably crafted story and the dead ends, and absences of possible motives at the beginning of the story when the hunt for a sadistic killer purportedly known as ‘The Cleanser’ started, all helped towards creating the tense atmosphere. D.S. Butler weaves a masterful police procedural that culminates in an explosive denouement. Her rich character development is both multi-dimensional and plausible. This tale should not be missed as it is a fantastic continuation of an excellent series.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Amazon Publishing UK via NetGalley at my request, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

Yes yes yes what an epic book this is!!


On cold ground is the 5th book in the crime series featuring DS Karen Hart. Whilst out at the christmas markets with her boyfriend a dead body is discovered in the church. It looks to be the works of a serial killer but they cannot be sure. Karen is tasks to work with DCI Churchill who she had long suspected of police corruption. She can't seem to keep her personal feelings at bay.

So this is my first time reading any book in this series and for the life of me I can't decide why. The way Butler write is done so well with information trickling through from previous events without shoving it down our throats. It was great as I haven't read any of the previous books but I felt I could read this as a stand alone. Although I have my kindle currently set up and ready to start with book 1.

I find Karen to be a great protagonist. The whole way through I was constantly rooting for her to find the truth. I felt like I completely backed every thought and decision she made throughout the book. She is a great character she has her flaws and defo needs therapy but there seems to be sensible reasons for this issues. I really love her working relationships espically with Sophie who I have a huge girl crush on. If she ever gets a spin off I will totally obsessively follow her.

The case in this novel is quite interesting. We hear the killers point of view throughout the book and yet it was very difficult trying to pin down who it was. The method of the murders is brutal and it makes you question them throughout. I was a bit shocked at one point and I loved that I didn't see certain events coming. I thought I had it all worked out let's just say I was completely incorrect.

I raced through this book finishing in 2 sittings today and I am so glad I did. It is a huge page turner and I just needed to know how it was all going to turn out.

Would I recommend this book?

Duh of course I would. It has everything you want in a crime novel tension, suspense, murder, who done it, twists and turns. I love that we follow the investigation through Karen and Sophie. As well as the personal storylines that run along side. D.S Butler you have fan. I would recommend to anyone who enjoys Katerina Diamond, Cara Hunter or Lisa Regan if you like any of those ladies you will love this book and honestly any fan of this genre. As this is book 5 I would say you can read it independently but I think starting at book 1 will build a bigger picture (don't be like me and read book 5 love it and decided that reading books 1 to 4 might be a good idea ha), also at the time of writing my review all of this series is avaliable on kindle unlimited as that's how I've got them all.

Thank you to Netgalley, amazon publisher's and D.S Butler for the advanced digital copy of on cold ground in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.

This is the fifth book in a series but can be read as a standalone - I will be reading the others soon.

A strong police procedural for a female detective. One murder seems to lead to others and the underlying theme is corruption.

Urgency to solve the case grows as it appears the victims are close to the detective.

I really enjoyed this book. It is book 5 in a series but there is enough information for it to be read on its own. The characters were immediately appealing and the writing has an easy, natural flow. I finished it in a day, I couldn’t put it down. A new author for me and I will definitely be searching out her other books.

This is the fifth book in the series featuring Detective Karen Hart and situated in the city of Lincoln. Whilst strolling round the Christmas market Karen and her boyfriend, Mike, hear a scream as they approach the cathedral. A body of a man has been found in the pews. A mark around his neck indicates that he has been strangled but he has also had a cross etched to his forehead. They discover that he was a member of the choir there. DI Morgan, the lead investigator in the case, receives a mysterious note through his letterbox during the night stating that the man, Lloyd Nelson, was guilty of physically abusing his wife and embezzling money from his firm and signed it ‘The Cleanser’. As the killer knows his address and identity Morgan is taken off the case and Karen is assigned a new team, lead by DCI Churchill. He is an arrogant man who Karen suspects of being one of a number of corrupt officers under an ongoing enquiry and maybe linked to the death of Karen’s husband dead daughter. A body of a young woman is discovered bearing the same marks as Lloyd and another note is delivered to the DS of the new team, Karen and her team realise that they have a serial killer on their hands and time is running out before he strikes again. This is a great series of,books, each one full of twists and turns, suspicion and red herrings that will keep you guessing right until the end. A highly recommended read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

What a great series and this installment did not disappoint. There is a lot of suspense to be had along with a very good plot. I love the character of Karen Blackwell and look forward to reading more of her adventures.
Many thanks to Amazon Publishing UK and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

On Cold Ground by D. S. Butler

This story involves a merciless killer, who will stop at nothing and a detective with nothing left to lose.

Excellent novel. I recommend this book. It is a thriller conspiracy. Serious characters, well thought out plot.
Read it and see if you can guess them murderer.

Thanks to Net Galley for sending me an advanced reader’s copy for my review.

This was the first book I've read in the Detective Karen Hart Series, but I've already bought and downloaded book 1 of the series. I thought this worked fine as a stand alone - there is a history with some of the characters but not anything that lowered my enjoyment of the book.

At an evening holiday festival with her boyfriend, Karen Hart is first on the scene of a murder. Various things seem to indicate the work of a serial killer, and when the lead on the case is threatened, a group of outside investigators is brought in.

I liked the mystery, and I also felt like this was a good police procedural - there was a lot of detail work and cooperation.

I had a hard time putting it down, which is always a sign of a good mystery! Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for once again helping me discover a new author.

I liked the story, the twist and turns made it hard to put the book down and I kept guessing 'til the end. Great series, portraying solid police work.

This was a great addition to the DS Karen Hart series ! Gripped me from the first page and had me guessing right to the very end with the resolution of the Police Corruption Case that had ran through the other books in the series. Great read !

Really love the Karen Hart series and this offering is just as complex as previous books in the series.
Always well thought out plot lines, brilliant and fascinating characters. With twists that you really cannot foresee.
Excellent series for fans of crime fiction

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy of this book. This was an excellent read.
Thoroughly recommended

This is a book I have also had to put to one side so I can catch up with the first few books. I am not one to start down a series but I will be picking this back up

I was given this ARC as a gift from the publisher and NetGalley

I enjoyed this book I only wish I had read the first books in the series, although it isn't necessary as the author does a good job of keeping you informed by not giving up too much.

I found the story engaging, the plot was interesting and there were some red herrings that did trip me up a little bit.

This was a great book to fill the time. As I said I wish I had encountered the series before this 5th book, I may go back and read the other books in the series.

The switch of the point of view between Karen and the killer did give me pause. I honestly thought I had figured out the killer but was surprised until the middle of the book, which is unusual for me.

Overall a very good read.

A great read, full of twists and turns. I'm really enjoying the series and awaiting the next case! Karen is a great character.

Another solid addition to the Karen hart series, with a focus on loose ends from previous books. Thanks for the opportunity to read

This was a very good, keep you guessing kind of book. I kept thinking I knew what was gonna happen and I couldn't but it came together wonderfully at the end. I really enjoyed this title even though I haven't read the rest of the series....yet! Fast paced and perfect!

I really loved this exciting story from DS Butler, it was full of tense moments that had me biting my nails as well as plot twists I didn't see coming..I am glad though that the ongoing police corruption story has been wrapped up so we can concentrate on the current case. I look forward to the next book in this series