The Lock: A CSI Eddie Collins Novella

Having read more than a few of this authors books, he still never fails to shock and surprise me and this little gem of a novella was no different.Eddie is a love him or hate him type of guy. His mouth is like a sewer and if you are easily offended by swearing, then this may not be the book for you. For me though, this is who Eddie is. There are no airs and graces, what you see is what you get. There is a certain amount of humour in this book which comes directly from Eddie and it really makes for a highly entertaining read.It’s hard to say to much with it only being a novella, which means you pretty much get into the thick of things as soon as the story gets going. I have to admit, even though I read the blurb, it still didn’t prepare myself for the horrors that were about to unfold. What I also love is that you can really see the authors own background shining through the story. I felt like I learned a bit more about this profession than I did before and certainly picked up some interesting facts.The Lock is a highly engaging read that will chill the bones off the reader. Definitely makes you never want to go down into a basement on your own! Thankfully there is no basement/cellar in my house so I can rest easy. A dark and chilling read that will give you goosebumps.

Short book - Eddie Collins solves the crime. If you haven't read any of the Eddie Collins books this is a good introduction.

This book is dark and twisted, it will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. In my opinion, it has an element of horror to it. Eddie Collins CSI is called out to a sudden death, he is more or less finished with the scene, waiting for the body to be removed when he decides to take a look around the old house, big mistake, he goes down into the cellar and what he is faced with is unbelievable but can he turn around and walk back out? Although this book is a novella it packs a mighty punch and will keep you hooked, if you haven't read any of the other books in the Eddie Collins series you will certainly want to after reading this one. I can't recommend it highly enough.

I’m not the best at writing reviews but I can definitely recommend this book (and, for that matter, anything written by this author. I have read all his books). His characters are real though we are not irritated by continual, unnecessary references to “their beautiful blond hair and ice blue eyes” as is often the case in many other author’s works. Factual information is well researched and all this leads to an exciting, non patronising read. I would recommend reading all the Roger Conniston books before you progress to Eddie Collins, though this is not essential. I have also read his stand alone novels and they too are a fantastic read.

Wow, Eddie Collins really got himself in a pickle this time! I'm not usually keen on novellas and short stories, as I like to get lost in a story, but this one is an exception. I had to read this all in one go, I couldn't put it down.Easily read as a stand alone, without having read any of the other brilliant Eddie Collins books, this is a dark story with flashes of grim humour.Eddie is a Scene of Crime Officer, a bit of a miserable bugger who generally prefers his own company. Has he 'bitten off more than he can chew' this time? (pun intended)Fans of Jeffery Deaver will love this story.

What a story! Andrew Barrett’s work always surprises, but this novella excels itself.You have to love grumpy old Eddie Collins. His sarcastically cynical view of life, somehow always leads him to do the right thing, but just complain about it along the way.This story of a day in the working life of Eddie, twists and turns, confuses and blindsides and demonstrates the twisted way evil minds can work.The build up of tension, Andrew creates is amazing! I found myself really spooked, whist sniggering at some of Eddies observations. An example of writing at its best. I always enjoy Andrew Barrett’s work, but dare I say he’s getting even better with each new publication?

Superb novella entry in the wonderful Collins series. The usual ingenious plot, hair raising thrills and even more black humour than usual - with a few laugh out loud moments. Simply great entertainment!

The best thing about this book is that we are reunited with Eddie Collins. The author, Andrew Barrett, provides us with the typical ( if you are familiar with Eddie Collins)dry humour in the face of such horror beautifully combined with his meticulous forensic mind. The worst thing about this book is that it is a novella and was all over too soon!! Fast paced, clever twists to keep you on the edge of your seat to the last page! I cannot wait for the next instalment of Eddie Colin’s CSI!