An amazing book that takes you into a deep dive of what it’s like to be a woman dealing with some of the most demented minds ever and how it is in a mainly male enforced workplace.

It's the story of how a crime junkie became a real detective and the process to reach her goal.
It's an interesting and informative read showing a world so removed from what we read in mysteries.
I liked the style of writing and found it gripping.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

I don’t often read non-fiction but when I do, I usually choose memoirs which have a link to crime. Prison psychologists, prisoners, police officers all tie into my interest in true-crime and link to the crime thriller fiction books I love to read. No Comment is the story of Jess McDonald, also a true-crime junkie who joins the ranks of Met Detectives on the brand-new Direct Entry Scheme. This scheme was open for anyone to apply and would entail skipping the years of ‘on-the-beat’ experience usually needed for a Detective and offer more streamlined training. This scheme was supposed to help not only bolster an over-worked workforce but also encourage diversity by giving the opportunity to people from all walks of life.

Jess’ account of her experience is fascinating and harrowing in equal measures. There is a good balance of her personal life and backstory fed into the book, but it never felt like it dragged or made you want to skip over it, which has happened in some memoirs I have read. We start by learning about what made Jess want to apply and the training she went through before going into actual cases she dealt with along the way. Jess is also refreshingly honest throughout, talking about her battle with depression which saw her take time off from the Met and how difficult this was to achieve.

There are a few bits of repetition in the book which I think could have been edited a little better, and Jess sometimes comes across as a bit of a martyr. She is the first to refuse the tear gas training, she always tries to stick up for the downtrodden and takes every opportunity to state that she would not do something again that she found to be morally dubious. I’m sure she probably had a fair few faults that she does not disclose in this book but as she has since left the Met she doesn’t need to touch on these!

The book does not paint a particularly good picture of the Met itself, we hear of tales of bullying, disregard for mental health and sexism. We hear of how over-worked the people there are with cases that need so much paperwork and pile up endlessly that the recruits feel that they can’t make a difference. We also hear of how so many of the Direct Entry Scheme graduates ended up leaving, unable to cope with the darker side of the institution. We learn of cases where people are released without conviction, able to offend again when it seemed so simple that they should have been kept away from society from the overview of the case. Jess mainly worked in the Safeguarding unit which deals with Domestic Violence, so take this as a trigger warning.

Overall, No Comment is a fascinating but also tragic peek into the inner workings of the Metropolitan Police Department from an important outside perspective. Thank you to NetGalley & Bloomsbury Publishing – Raven Books for the chance to read the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A very straightforward account of being on a fast track entry scheme with the Met police, the highs and lows and the effect on the individual. It’s a tough job and this doesn’t pull any punches especially about why she left after a year.

A staffing crisis in the British Metropolitan Police Service led to the introduction of a controversial initiative called the Direct Entry Detective Scheme in 2017. Jess McDonald was one of 4,500 applicants, and underwent a rigorous vetting process to become accepted into the programme.

“The book I intended to write was one that bridged the gap between people’s fascination with true crime and their lack of insight about what it actually is to be a detective. The one I’ve written turns out to be far more significant.”

For thirty-something Jess, the programme had immediate appeal, not only because of her love of true crime podcasts, but because she felt strongly about justice, in part triggered by civil case she had brought against her former employer.

In No Comment Jess describes the multi-step interview process and her excitement at being one of just 30 scheme candidates to begin training in the Spring of 2018, before sharing her experience as a probationary detective in the CSU. It’s a fascinating, surprising, and sometimes harrowing glimpse into the world of modern police investigation, particularly in relation to domestic violence. As a ‘Direct Entry’ Jess faces some unique challenges, including disapproval from colleagues who don’t support the scheme, and while for months she remains motivated and determined to succeed, the excessive workload, the punishing shifts, and the erosion of her ideals wears her down.

Details of Jess’s personal life are interspersed among the narrative, and I understood why these intimate elements were included though I found them a bit uncomfortable at times.

These personal stressors, combined with the intensity of Jess’s training, induced a bout of depression that alienated her supervisor and led to workplace bullying, which directly precipitated her eventual resignation barely 12 months of graduation. She was not the only Direct Entry to leave, to date only four members of her own class remain in the service, the result, she suggests, of a number of factors.

“It was naive but, before joining the police, I had only ever thought about what I would do and achieve, what I had to give. I hadn’t spared a thought for what it might do to me.”

Written with honesty and self reflection, in a personable tone, No Comment: What I Wish I'd Known About Becoming A Detective offers interesting insight into the experience of working as a detective attached to CSU in London, albeit under unusual circumstances. I think it would be a valuable read for anyone interested in joining the police force, especially those considering the Direct Entry Scheme.

I was intrigued enough by the description of 'No Comment' to request an ARC. I can honestly say I was not expecting the content. It consists of a chronological account of Jess's journey in the Direct Entry Scheme to the Met, along with facets of her personal life. Frankly it was the snuffing of hope and Jess's understanding of service and justice. The very thing the Met needs now more than any other thing. The Direct Entry Scheme bypasses the requirement to come up through the ranks, so I suppose it's natural there would be a degree of resentment. The massive overload of work she was presented with, together with a statistically remote chance of getting approval from the CPS to pursue a prosecution, would have challenged even Sisyphus. How she stuck with it for so long beggars belief but I am glad she has it behind her now.
No Comment is an interesting title because it is an exposé of dimensions of training and policing in the Met and unlike her title, Jess does make many comments and justified ones too.

Jess McDonald tells readers about her time during 20 week police detective training course which he took in 2012. Good read for those wanting to work in police forces.

This book is told from the Author Jess' point of view and is a real life look at the intensive 20 week police detective training course she was accepted on by the Met in 2012. Jess was one out of 100 from the 4500 that applied to the Direct Entry Detective Scheme.

I enjoyed this book a lot and even though I wasn't sure what I was expecting I found it a lot more interesting than I thought I would. I found out lots of information regarding police procedures, training and exams as well as Jess' personal life.

I really felt that Jess applied to make a difference and wants to help people but found she was held back from this. There is a lot of insight to the system and particularly the domestic violence department where Jess spent much of her time.

This was interesting and a real eye-opener for anyone wanting ot become a detective or even go into the police force. Although I didn't enjoy tis that much personally as I expected this to be more relatable and more about true crime, however I think anyone going into tis profession or something like it will love this.

An interesting read, but sadly not particularly eye opening and shocking.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

"No Comment; What I Wish I'd Known About Becoming A Detective" is an extraordinary book that offers a captivating insider's perspective on the intriguing world of detectives. Authored by Jess McDonald, a seasoned detective with years of experience, this book takes readers on an enlightening journey through the highs, lows, challenges, and triumphs of a detective's life.

From the very first page, McDonald's writing style immediately draws you in with its warmth and authenticity. It's evident that the author has a genuine passion for her work, and her enthusiasm shines through every chapter. Her storytelling ability is truly commendable, as she effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes and real-life case examples to provide a rich tapestry of what it truly means to be a detective.

One of the most commendable aspects of this book is McDonald's honesty and transparency. She doesn't shy away from discussing the less glamorous aspects of detective work, shedding light on the emotional toll it can take and the sacrifices that need to be made. McDonald's openness about her own doubts and challenges adds a relatable touch to her narrative, allowing readers to connect with her on a personal level.

Furthermore, "No Comment" is an invaluable resource for anyone aspiring to become a detective. McDonald generously imparts a wealth of practical advice and insights, sharing what she wishes she had known at the beginning of her career. Her guidance ranges from the technical aspects of investigations to the importance of developing strong intuition and critical thinking skills. McDonald's words serve as a mentorship, empowering aspiring detectives to navigate the complex terrain of their chosen profession with wisdom and confidence.

What truly sets this book apart is the deep respect and admiration McDonald has for her fellow detectives and the criminal justice system as a whole. Through her writing, she paints a vivid picture of the dedication and unwavering commitment that detectives possess, often working tirelessly to seek justice and protect society. McDonald's profound appreciation for her colleagues is palpable, and it leaves readers with a newfound respect for the incredible work done by these unsung heroes.

"No Comment; What I Wish I'd Known About Becoming A Detective" is a book that will not only captivate mystery and crime enthusiasts but also leave a lasting impact on anyone who reads it. It is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, the power of perseverance, and the ability to make a difference in the lives of others. McDonald's words will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page, serving as a reminder of the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to solving mysteries and bringing justice to the world.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend "No Comment" to anyone interested in the world of detectives, crime-solving, and the human stories behind the badge. It is a book that enlightens, inspires, and leaves you with a profound appreciation for the intricacies of detective work. Jess McDonald's masterful storytelling and insightful wisdom make this book an absolute must-read.