In this installment of the DS Kat Ballantyne series, Kat is desperate to uncover who sent her a large amount of money that’s caught the eye of the anti-corruption squad. Her career could be over if she can’t trace the sender and prove their intention. So of course, it’s at this point that she’s contacted by a friend, Laura, who is pleading guilty to a murder Kat is sure she didn’t commit. The problem with her doubts? Laura calls her from the crime scene where her prints are all over the victim and the murder weapon. And she’s adamant that she is guilty of committing the murder.

As usual, Kat’s boss doesn’t care what she believes and tells her it’s an easy one that should be done and dusted in a day. Because of her pending corruption charges, she’s not even supposed to be involved with the case, not to mention dragging it out because of a hunch. But her loyal DC, Tom, should easily give her the benefit of the doubt, right? Well, not when DI Carver has made him the lead on the case, pressing him to close it out and poisoning Tom against Kat any chance he gets. Without Tom’s support, Kat doesn’t have a chance to delay the case and help prove her friend innocent. Let’s hope he gets over himself and comes to his senses or Kat will never let him live it down.

I do think that after working closely together, Tom wouldn’t be so quick to kiss up to Carve-Up, but I guess the author needed some conflict. As if Carve-Up doesn’t bring enough of that! Seriously, this is one character you love to hate. He must get what’s coming to him soon enough, even his boss knows he is full of it. At this point, what’s keeping him in his position? It’s hard to think of any positive qualities he has. Ugh!

Based on the story's ending, it looks like there’s a guaranteed next one coming and I’m so happy about that - this has become one of my favorite series. It will be one of yours, too, so get going and start reading!

Great third book in this fantastic series about Kat Ballatyne. Gripping, unputdownable suspension that keeps you wanting to keep on reading but I'd recommend reading the first book so your up to date.

The Silent Wife is the third installment of the Detective Kat Ballantine series, and this might be my favorite. It’s not necessary to read the two previous books as much is explained, but the characters will feel even more realistic and their behavior more understandable. Kat is facing false corruption charges and is struggling to prove her innocence. There are several likely characters who could be responsible, including her direct superior who is always out to get her, a podcaster with a history of stalking her, and of course her powerful and cagey father. Adding to this, Kat receives a phone call from a friend claiming to have just murdered her friend. The book is fast paced and well written. Kat has steadily grown on me as a character, and I enjoyed the parts with her husband and son, which rounded out and softened her tough facade. The atmosphere is thrilling and interesting. I recommend this series. With thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC. My opinions are my own. susanh_bookreviews

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the eARC.
The third in the series sees Kat trying to solve a murder and free the supposed murderer, who Kat is sure is innocent. Plus, how did an enormous amount of money get into her bank account? DI Carver wants her to account for the money, or she will lose her job. She suspects her father of secretly dumping the money ... he would like to see her out of the police force.
I had to suspend my belief a bit regarding some aspects of the book, but it was a good read.

Book 3 in the Ballantyne series is a great continuation of the series.
All the same characters, with a new mystery thrown in.
The new murder was interesting, when it seems so obvious you have your murderer, why are you looking for someone else who did it?
Carve up continues to be a big pain in the rear.

Definite spoilers ahead



Things with Ethan are getting creepier, and I'm sure that's going to explode at some point.
Family tensions are high too, but I felt credibility was stretched a bit too much at how quickly Kat decided her dad could be a murderer.
It's a big jump from dodgy business deals to killing.

That aside, it was an enjoyable read, and I look forward to the next installment of Kats life.

Oooooooh great book and series!!! Can’t wait for the next book! This book has great suspense, intrigue, action packed, murder, mystery, double crossing, a fantastic who done it and some crazy twists and turns! The storyline was very interesting and had me glued to my kindle! I highly recommend reading this book and series! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me! Can’t wait for more!!