This is the fourth book in the DCI Hatherall series and it works just fine as a standalone. There are references to previous events but this has no effect on understanding the plot. It does however, make you want to go back and read the previous books as you are given little pieces of information by the author which pique your interest about the other books.
The beginning started off a little slow for me and struggled to hold my interest, but as I read further, I began to feel as though I was solving the mysteries alongside the detectives.
I liked the little bits of dark humour scattered throughout. I particularly enjoyed reading about Colin the dog and Dick and Gladys!
After finishing the book, I was left wanting to know more about Fiona's situation with Julien, however I'm sure that this will be developed later in the series. Other than this, I liked the ending as it wrapped things up nicely, but it would've been nice to have more detail about the motivations behind the events and exactly why they were committed. For me that aspect felt slightly rushed as personally, I prefer it when it's explained thoroughly.
I would give this book 4 out of 5 stars. It's a traditional English mystery with interesting characters and a great plot.

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This e-book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.

'The Fifth Letter' began really well, I immediately became immersed. Straight away I loved the direction the story was heading and felt like I knew each character and their individual quirks almost like I was involved in the group.
I rather liked the style of narration but at times I did find it difficult to keep track. Occasionally it would just switch back to the present and it would take me a while to adjust. However, once I got used to this, I began to expect it and then after a while didn't even notice.
As the letters were gradually revealed, the pace got faster and the level of tension increased. Secrets and lies started to come to light and new twists hid around every corner. I read the second half in one go!
Additionally, I loved that I thought I knew each character but then more and more would be revealed and my perception of each woman was constantly shifting. Each had their own problems at home which were completely different than how they first appeared. Could I trust their letter? Could I even trust Joni's narration?
On top of all this, I simply couldn't guess who the fifth letter was from. I suspected every single person apart from who it actually was! Moriarty expertly threw suspicion all over the place. I can't emphasise enough how intense it became towards the conclusion. I was on edge the whole time.
I REALLY enjoyed the ending. It was as close as a book has come to my perfect ending for a long time. It tied everything up and the Epilogue was perfect. I'd give 'The Fifth Letter' 4.5 out of 5! I definitely recommend this book. Dramatic, secretive and twisty. Can you really trust your friends?


​ This e-book was provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review.

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