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Dark Heart (The Dark Series Book 1)
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- Dark Heart (The Dark Series Book 1)
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- Customer reviews
Top positive review
Tension+
December 2, 2016
I seldom read crime mysteries, but I'm glad I stumbled on this one. It pulled me in from page one with the premise of the serial killer who becomes a victim and the idea of cellular memory. There's tension during the search for the killer's last, but potentially still surviving victim, then there's more with mysterious dreams that a heart transplant patient experiences. And just when you think you've got the answer, there's another twist.
The pacing is great and the style clean and crisp. In these kinds of books, I usually become tangled and lost in all the evidence gathering and suspects, but not this time. For me a mark of a good story, is when I can't wait to get back to reading it. Dark Heart was one of those.
The pacing is great and the style clean and crisp. In these kinds of books, I usually become tangled and lost in all the evidence gathering and suspects, but not this time. For me a mark of a good story, is when I can't wait to get back to reading it. Dark Heart was one of those.
45 people found this helpful
Top critical review
A ho-hum police procedural
April 27, 2017
I picked up this book because it sounded creative, but it didn't live up to my hopes. I'm not sure what I expected from the "cellular memory" angle, but I thought it would involve more than just dozens of chapters of the transplant recipient sitting on a hospital bed, not even becoming relevant until 2/3 of the way into the book. The other plot line wasn't much more entertaining: a pair of ordinary detectives carry out an ordinary investigation which slowly uncovers ordinary information which leads to a straightforward resolution of both the missing person and then the murder. The pace finally picks up near the end of the book and the result of the mystery is a bit creative, but I found most of the book to be quite boring. Add in some wooden dialogue, more than a few editing mistakes, a dearth of meaningful (or interesting) clues in the first half of the book, a morally dubious ending, and an off-putting protagonist (never offers condolences to family members of either victim, wants to punch one of them in the face...?) and I'm afraid this isn't a book that I'd recommend. The story had some potential but I felt there was a lot of room for improvement all around.
7 people found this helpful
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December 2, 2016
I seldom read crime mysteries, but I'm glad I stumbled on this one. It pulled me in from page one with the premise of the serial killer who becomes a victim and the idea of cellular memory. There's tension during the search for the killer's last, but potentially still surviving victim, then there's more with mysterious dreams that a heart transplant patient experiences. And just when you think you've got the answer, there's another twist.
The pacing is great and the style clean and crisp. In these kinds of books, I usually become tangled and lost in all the evidence gathering and suspects, but not this time. For me a mark of a good story, is when I can't wait to get back to reading it. Dark Heart was one of those.
The pacing is great and the style clean and crisp. In these kinds of books, I usually become tangled and lost in all the evidence gathering and suspects, but not this time. For me a mark of a good story, is when I can't wait to get back to reading it. Dark Heart was one of those.
March 7, 2017
When real estate agent Fraser Grant is found mysteriously murdered, no one initially suspects that he’s the notorious "Adultery Killer" serial murderer police have been looking for the past ten years. Grant’s organs are harvested at the request of his father and Eva Matthews is the lucky recipient of Fraser’s heart – or is she? When she begins having vivid dreams, Eva wonders if there’s some truth to the “cellular memory” theory the final victim’s husband insists is possible. Will Eva’s new heart be the key to locating the killer’s final victim before it’s too late?
This book was filled with suspenseful twists and turns. It kept me guessing until the very end. I enjoyed the “sort of paranormal, sort of sci-fi” aspect of the book. The idea of cellular memory was indeed intriguing.
Dark Heart is no cozy murder mystery – it never pretends to be. Language is gritty and real at times, so be aware. Yet, it’s nothing too over the top.
The characters in Dark Heart are well developed and likable, which is always a huge plus in a book series. Why else would you be willing to read Book 2 and 3 then? And, speaking of this being a book series – the excellent part is this is actually a standalone book. That means no sneaky cliffhangers, which I HATE!
The author’s writing is wonderful. She’s created a tightly woven plot, appealing characters, plenty of suspense and mystery – Dark Heart has it all.
This book was filled with suspenseful twists and turns. It kept me guessing until the very end. I enjoyed the “sort of paranormal, sort of sci-fi” aspect of the book. The idea of cellular memory was indeed intriguing.
Dark Heart is no cozy murder mystery – it never pretends to be. Language is gritty and real at times, so be aware. Yet, it’s nothing too over the top.
The characters in Dark Heart are well developed and likable, which is always a huge plus in a book series. Why else would you be willing to read Book 2 and 3 then? And, speaking of this being a book series – the excellent part is this is actually a standalone book. That means no sneaky cliffhangers, which I HATE!
The author’s writing is wonderful. She’s created a tightly woven plot, appealing characters, plenty of suspense and mystery – Dark Heart has it all.
April 27, 2017
I picked up this book because it sounded creative, but it didn't live up to my hopes. I'm not sure what I expected from the "cellular memory" angle, but I thought it would involve more than just dozens of chapters of the transplant recipient sitting on a hospital bed, not even becoming relevant until 2/3 of the way into the book. The other plot line wasn't much more entertaining: a pair of ordinary detectives carry out an ordinary investigation which slowly uncovers ordinary information which leads to a straightforward resolution of both the missing person and then the murder. The pace finally picks up near the end of the book and the result of the mystery is a bit creative, but I found most of the book to be quite boring. Add in some wooden dialogue, more than a few editing mistakes, a dearth of meaningful (or interesting) clues in the first half of the book, a morally dubious ending, and an off-putting protagonist (never offers condolences to family members of either victim, wants to punch one of them in the face...?) and I'm afraid this isn't a book that I'd recommend. The story had some potential but I felt there was a lot of room for improvement all around.
March 21, 2017
This was very well written and I breezed through it as I was anxious to see what happened. The story centers around a woman named Eve who has just had a heart transplant. What she doesn't know right away is that her new heart belonged to a serial killer who preyed on women cheating on their husbands. And as it turns out, the killer was then murdered before law enforcement could find the man's latest victim. Amanda was the wife of Andrew, an ambitious journalist who had been writing about the serial killer for ten years. The serial killer picked one woman a year and this time he singled out Amanda. It's up to Detectives Cooper and Quinn to not only solve the serial killer's murder but also to find the missing Amanda, should she be alive or dead. Because there's a chance she could still be living, they are in a race against time.
Meanwhile, Eve, in the hospital after her transplant, is having strange dreams about an elusive woman she is sure is in danger. Then Andrew visits her and reveals whose heart she has and the fact his wife is missing. He talks to her about cellular memories. In other words, he believes she might be able to help find Amanda because some of her memories belong to his wife's abductor.
Sounds complicated but it was very easy to follow the characters and the action as it took place. The only reason for the four star rating is that I thought the ending just a tad bit over the top, like the author went a trifle too far in order to further sensationalize it. This didn't detract any from the book's enjoyment and I would still recommend it if you're in the market for a good thriller.
Meanwhile, Eve, in the hospital after her transplant, is having strange dreams about an elusive woman she is sure is in danger. Then Andrew visits her and reveals whose heart she has and the fact his wife is missing. He talks to her about cellular memories. In other words, he believes she might be able to help find Amanda because some of her memories belong to his wife's abductor.
Sounds complicated but it was very easy to follow the characters and the action as it took place. The only reason for the four star rating is that I thought the ending just a tad bit over the top, like the author went a trifle too far in order to further sensationalize it. This didn't detract any from the book's enjoyment and I would still recommend it if you're in the market for a good thriller.
February 3, 2017
Wow! I haven't read a police procedural this good in a while. The stuff with the cellular memory was a neat twist. I was hooked from beginning to end and had to read it in one sitting. Even though this book is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone as there is no cliffhanger (a plus in my book -- I HATE cliffhangers!). Dark heart is a well paced, clean read (another plus). This one is a definite win for Catherine Lee and I can't wait to read more of her work.
May 27, 2017
Sydney, Australia. Fraser Grant (50, Glebe branch, Lexman, Jones Real Estate agent, aka James “Jimmy” Simpson) was found in his Glebe apartment badly beaten & taken to the RPA hospital.
The Adultery Killer murders had been going on for 9 yrs.
DS Charlie “Coop” Cooper (homicide) had discussed this matter with Dr. Max Christie (forensic psychologist).
DS Cooper & Detective Sr. Constable Quinn went to interview Jack Simpson (father) about his son Fraser who had since died.
Dr. Graham (cardiac surgeon) had transplanted a donor heart into Eva “Evie” Mathews (patient, fashion designer).
Brenda Matthews (mom), & Alan Matthews (dad), came to see her quite frequently.
Amanda Fox (Andrew’s wife, Medlow & Bracks advertising firm) is missing.
Kate McKinley (co-worker M & B advertising firm) didn’t know & didn’t seem to care where Amanda was.
Detective Senior Constable Sonia Hightower had been added to the investigation team.
What information did Stacey offer up?
Dr Mr (.)
Warning: This book contains graphic adult content, violence, or profanity which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written who-dun-it murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dun-it movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The Adultery Killer murders had been going on for 9 yrs.
DS Charlie “Coop” Cooper (homicide) had discussed this matter with Dr. Max Christie (forensic psychologist).
DS Cooper & Detective Sr. Constable Quinn went to interview Jack Simpson (father) about his son Fraser who had since died.
Dr. Graham (cardiac surgeon) had transplanted a donor heart into Eva “Evie” Mathews (patient, fashion designer).
Brenda Matthews (mom), & Alan Matthews (dad), came to see her quite frequently.
Amanda Fox (Andrew’s wife, Medlow & Bracks advertising firm) is missing.
Kate McKinley (co-worker M & B advertising firm) didn’t know & didn’t seem to care where Amanda was.
Detective Senior Constable Sonia Hightower had been added to the investigation team.
What information did Stacey offer up?
Dr Mr (.)
Warning: This book contains graphic adult content, violence, or profanity which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written who-dun-it murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dun-it movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 10, 2017
Detective Sergeant Charlie Cooper was about ready to walk out Homicide’s door to spend more time with his long suffering wife Liz and their two sons when a murder took his attention. The shock he and his partner Detective Sergeant Joey Quinn felt to discover the dead man was the serial killer Cooper had been hunting for almost a decade was immense.
Eva Matthews had just received a life-saving heart transplant and was noticing the difference in her breathing immediately. In ICU in a Sydney Hospital, she was being monitored constantly – her parents and best friend Taylor were by her side. But Eva was suffering nightmares when she slept and of course she was sleeping a lot as she recovered. When she was informed by Sydney Times reporter Andrew Fox on the probable cause for her nightmares, Eva was shocked at what she learned. She had received the heart of a psychopath…
But the horrific discovery that another young woman was missing, taken by the serial killer before he was killed, meant the clock was ticking for Cooper and his team. They desperately needed to find the killer’s last victim – alive – to gain a measure of satisfaction after the long and drawn out failures of the past. But how would they find her? There was no evidence pointing anywhere – would they find her? Would she still be alive? And would they discover who murdered the murderer?
Dark Heart is #1 in the Cooper & Quinn Mystery series by Aussie author Catherine Lee and was a heart stopping, breathtaking race against time; a journey into the subject of heart transplants and whether cellular memory is fact or fiction. Incredible twists littered the story which was told in a highly intriguing manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and can’t wait to read the next in the series. Highly recommended.
Eva Matthews had just received a life-saving heart transplant and was noticing the difference in her breathing immediately. In ICU in a Sydney Hospital, she was being monitored constantly – her parents and best friend Taylor were by her side. But Eva was suffering nightmares when she slept and of course she was sleeping a lot as she recovered. When she was informed by Sydney Times reporter Andrew Fox on the probable cause for her nightmares, Eva was shocked at what she learned. She had received the heart of a psychopath…
But the horrific discovery that another young woman was missing, taken by the serial killer before he was killed, meant the clock was ticking for Cooper and his team. They desperately needed to find the killer’s last victim – alive – to gain a measure of satisfaction after the long and drawn out failures of the past. But how would they find her? There was no evidence pointing anywhere – would they find her? Would she still be alive? And would they discover who murdered the murderer?
Dark Heart is #1 in the Cooper & Quinn Mystery series by Aussie author Catherine Lee and was a heart stopping, breathtaking race against time; a journey into the subject of heart transplants and whether cellular memory is fact or fiction. Incredible twists littered the story which was told in a highly intriguing manner. I thoroughly enjoyed the ride and can’t wait to read the next in the series. Highly recommended.
December 7, 2016
I wasn't sure about this one in the beginning. The way in which the dueling plots were intertwined perplexed me. In the end, however, they ended up meaning well, aided by a killer plot twist. While there could be just a but more of a "something" to make this work better, it's still a solid story.
April 18, 2017
I really liked this story, I will be looking for others in this series.
The only thing I didn't like could be a ~ SPOILER ~ some what, so don't read further
if you don't want to know...
We know who the Serial killer is right off, and in setting up his past life, at first it makes
perfect sense, he went to prison for murder, when he gets out after many years he changes
his name for a new start in life and goes into selling Real Estate, later in the story, it goes on to
say before he went to prison he was in Real Estate and kept up his license by taking classes
while in prison, BUT... that would not be possible since he changed his name to keep that same
license he had before. It just did not make any sense to me the way it was told later in the story.
End of spoiler.
The ending is really good, and the detectives are good, I did not notice many typo's BUT
it is hard for me to notice those when I read a book from a writer who writes the way people do
in the UK with all the extra U's added into words where in the USA we do not spell them that way.
For an Indy Author this is one of the best I have come across in a long time..
I recommend it... if you enjoy a good mystery... even with knowing who the serial killer is from the start
there is still a Mystery to solve...
Happy reading
The only thing I didn't like could be a ~ SPOILER ~ some what, so don't read further
if you don't want to know...
We know who the Serial killer is right off, and in setting up his past life, at first it makes
perfect sense, he went to prison for murder, when he gets out after many years he changes
his name for a new start in life and goes into selling Real Estate, later in the story, it goes on to
say before he went to prison he was in Real Estate and kept up his license by taking classes
while in prison, BUT... that would not be possible since he changed his name to keep that same
license he had before. It just did not make any sense to me the way it was told later in the story.
End of spoiler.
The ending is really good, and the detectives are good, I did not notice many typo's BUT
it is hard for me to notice those when I read a book from a writer who writes the way people do
in the UK with all the extra U's added into words where in the USA we do not spell them that way.
For an Indy Author this is one of the best I have come across in a long time..
I recommend it... if you enjoy a good mystery... even with knowing who the serial killer is from the start
there is still a Mystery to solve...
Happy reading
June 1, 2017
Detective Sergeant Charlie Cooper is ready to get out of homicide so he can spend more time with his family. But, when the serial killer he’s been pursuing for a decade is murdered, with one of his victims still missing and unaccounted for, he decides to stay on in the hopes he can rescue her and bring some closure to the families of the other victims.
Eva Matthews has a bad ticker, but is saved at the last minute when she receives a heart transplant. Immediately after a successful operation, she begins having strange dreams. When she learns that her heart came from the murdered serial killer, and a reporter starts hounding her for help finding his missing wife, she and Cooper’s paths cross.
Dark Heart by Catherine Lee is a jolting read that explores not just the details of police efforts to close the books on a sadistic killer, but a psychological thriller that delves into the mysteries of the human mind. The ending, which ties up every loose end and clue the author so skillfully planted throughout, will both surprise and satisfy.
Eva Matthews has a bad ticker, but is saved at the last minute when she receives a heart transplant. Immediately after a successful operation, she begins having strange dreams. When she learns that her heart came from the murdered serial killer, and a reporter starts hounding her for help finding his missing wife, she and Cooper’s paths cross.
Dark Heart by Catherine Lee is a jolting read that explores not just the details of police efforts to close the books on a sadistic killer, but a psychological thriller that delves into the mysteries of the human mind. The ending, which ties up every loose end and clue the author so skillfully planted throughout, will both surprise and satisfy.
