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Detective Kay Hunter #4
Hell to Pay
When a road traffic accident on a dark autumn night uncovers a disturbing conspiracy, Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter’s investigation exposes a ruthless serial killer exploiting vulnerable young women.With her enemies unmasked and her career spiralling out of control, Kay’s determination to seek vengeance for the victims brings her dangerously close to those who want to silence her.
Undeterred, she uncovers the real reason behind a plot to destroy her career and sets in motion a terrifying chain of events. Could Kay’s need for revenge be her undoing, or will she survive to see justice served?
Hell to Pay is a gripping fast paced crime thriller, and the fourth in the Detective Kay Hunter series:
Undeterred, she uncovers the real reason behind a plot to destroy her career and sets in motion a terrifying chain of events. Could Kay’s need for revenge be her undoing, or will she survive to see justice served?
Hell to Pay is a gripping fast paced crime thriller, and the fourth in the Detective Kay Hunter series:
324 pages, ebook
First published November 16, 2017
330 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Amphlett
183Ìýbooks646ÌýfollowersBefore turning to writing, USA Today bestselling crime author Rachel Amphlett played guitar in bands, worked as a TV and film extra, dabbled in radio, and worked in publishing as an editorial assistant.
She now wields a pen instead of a plectrum and writes crime fiction with over 30 crime novels and short stories featuring spies, detectives, vigilantes, and assassins.
A keen traveller and accidental private investigator, Rachel has both Australian and British citizenship.
You can find out more about Rachel and her books at .
Praise for Rachel Amphlett
“Fast paced with vivid characterisation and clever twists, [None the Wiser] is another winner� Adrian McKinty
“[None the Wiser] is a terrific start to a new series� Jo Spain, With Our Blessing and The Confession
“Quirky, creepy and twisted tales� James Oswald, Sunday Times bestselling author
“Thrilling start to a new series. Scared to Death is a stylish, smart and gripping crime thriller� Robert Bryndza
"Scared to Death� moves along at breakneck speed with twists and turns" Angela Marsons
She now wields a pen instead of a plectrum and writes crime fiction with over 30 crime novels and short stories featuring spies, detectives, vigilantes, and assassins.
A keen traveller and accidental private investigator, Rachel has both Australian and British citizenship.
You can find out more about Rachel and her books at .
Praise for Rachel Amphlett
“Fast paced with vivid characterisation and clever twists, [None the Wiser] is another winner� Adrian McKinty
“[None the Wiser] is a terrific start to a new series� Jo Spain, With Our Blessing and The Confession
“Quirky, creepy and twisted tales� James Oswald, Sunday Times bestselling author
“Thrilling start to a new series. Scared to Death is a stylish, smart and gripping crime thriller� Robert Bryndza
"Scared to Death� moves along at breakneck speed with twists and turns" Angela Marsons
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
January 29, 2019
Another excellent book in this great series, full of action and lots of realistic police work.
I really enjoyed the story, the interactions between the characters and the way my interest was held throughout. All brilliant! However I could not quite go to five stars on this one because I was so disappointed in what the author did with Kay at the end.
That apart it was a fantastic book and I am already looking out for the next one.
I really enjoyed the story, the interactions between the characters and the way my interest was held throughout. All brilliant! However I could not quite go to five stars on this one because I was so disappointed in what the author did with Kay at the end.
That apart it was a fantastic book and I am already looking out for the next one.
November 5, 2017
The shocking motor vehicle accident in the middle of the night had Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter and her DI Devon Sharp immediately buried in an evil conspiracy involving defenceless young women. The driver of the car was critical, but they desperately wanted to interview him. And when evidence pointed to a person they’d had dealings with in the past, Kay and Sharp knew they had to put him behind bars if it was the last thing they did.
The investigative team followed every lead, but details were sparse. The person they were after was clever � but surely he would make a mistake? The team needed to catch him before it was too late � they all knew how dangerous he was, and how he’d let nothing stand in his way � but as Kay became more deeply involved in her determination to crack the case, she had no idea how much danger she was putting herself in�
Hell to Pay is the 4th in the Detective Kay Hunter series by Aussie author Rachel Amphlett and is just as gripping and intense as the first three. Kay Hunter is an extremely likable character, with deep inner strength, and a softer side which comes through when she’s with her boyfriend Adam. With a rocketing pace, and filled with incredible twists, Hell to Pay is one I highly recommend to fans of the thriller genre.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
The investigative team followed every lead, but details were sparse. The person they were after was clever � but surely he would make a mistake? The team needed to catch him before it was too late � they all knew how dangerous he was, and how he’d let nothing stand in his way � but as Kay became more deeply involved in her determination to crack the case, she had no idea how much danger she was putting herself in�
Hell to Pay is the 4th in the Detective Kay Hunter series by Aussie author Rachel Amphlett and is just as gripping and intense as the first three. Kay Hunter is an extremely likable character, with deep inner strength, and a softer side which comes through when she’s with her boyfriend Adam. With a rocketing pace, and filled with incredible twists, Hell to Pay is one I highly recommend to fans of the thriller genre.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
November 14, 2017
4.5* --> 5*
When Kay Hunter gets a call in the middle of the night to attend a traffic accident, she has no idea of what lies ahead. Not only does she find something in the boot of the car that really shouldn’t be there, it will also lead to an investigation that will ultimately force her to face one of her biggest nightmares.
If you’ve been following the Kay Hunter series, then you know Kay has been struggling professionally as well as personally due to someone trying to destroy her career. In Hell To Pay, the pieces of the puzzle will be falling into place but will Kay’s desire for revenge put her in danger?
This series is one of those that just keeps getting better with each instalment. The tension and the pace are quite high as the team race against the clock to catch the ultimate prize before they disappear again. But the man they’re chasing has plans of his own, none of which sound good and he always seems to be one step ahead.
I’ve always loved how Rachel Amphlett is able to effortlessly combine Kay’s personal life with her career in the police force and having these two aspects collide was quite the thrilling ride. If I want to be slightly nitpicky, I could say that maybe something was a wee bit predictable but in the grand scheme of things, I really didn’t care. Ultimately, some questions are answered but there are new ones to deal with now, which is a great way to keep a reader wanting more.
I’m not sure if could possibly be any more vague. But I’m trying really hard not to give anything away here. You just have to read it and see for yourself what’s going on. This is a quick read, one of those “I’ll just read one more chapter� books and before you know it, your afternoon is gone and you’re late starting dinner. Oops.
I can’t believe this is already book four in the series and it doesn’t look like the author or Kay, for that matter, have any intention of letting up. I’ve enjoyed this series from the start and I very much look forward to the next one, although that one will hopefully have more Adam in it. 😉
When Kay Hunter gets a call in the middle of the night to attend a traffic accident, she has no idea of what lies ahead. Not only does she find something in the boot of the car that really shouldn’t be there, it will also lead to an investigation that will ultimately force her to face one of her biggest nightmares.
If you’ve been following the Kay Hunter series, then you know Kay has been struggling professionally as well as personally due to someone trying to destroy her career. In Hell To Pay, the pieces of the puzzle will be falling into place but will Kay’s desire for revenge put her in danger?
This series is one of those that just keeps getting better with each instalment. The tension and the pace are quite high as the team race against the clock to catch the ultimate prize before they disappear again. But the man they’re chasing has plans of his own, none of which sound good and he always seems to be one step ahead.
I’ve always loved how Rachel Amphlett is able to effortlessly combine Kay’s personal life with her career in the police force and having these two aspects collide was quite the thrilling ride. If I want to be slightly nitpicky, I could say that maybe something was a wee bit predictable but in the grand scheme of things, I really didn’t care. Ultimately, some questions are answered but there are new ones to deal with now, which is a great way to keep a reader wanting more.
I’m not sure if could possibly be any more vague. But I’m trying really hard not to give anything away here. You just have to read it and see for yourself what’s going on. This is a quick read, one of those “I’ll just read one more chapter� books and before you know it, your afternoon is gone and you’re late starting dinner. Oops.
I can’t believe this is already book four in the series and it doesn’t look like the author or Kay, for that matter, have any intention of letting up. I’ve enjoyed this series from the start and I very much look forward to the next one, although that one will hopefully have more Adam in it. 😉
November 21, 2017
Hell To Pay ticks all the boxes, it’s a fast-paced thriller that begs to be read in one sitting! Kay and the team investigate their most chilling case yet, personally I think this case is particularly horrific and I’m thankful for Amphlett’s ability to create a chilling case while still allowing me to sleep at night!
And, most importantly to me, Kay finally comes face to face with her nemesis. I say finally because I’ve been waiting since book one for this very book � let me explain without spoiling any of the previous books � in book one, Sacred To Death, we find out Kay had been investigated by the Professional Standards Committee, they ruled in her favour and since her return to work she has been targeted both personally and professionally by someone with a vendetta against her. You can imagine the levels of anticipation I felt during this read as this element is finally revealed, suspense that has been building throughout the entire series, and I must commend Amphlett because this was a big risk, capturing readers in book one and drawing out this mystery but it absolutely paid off because it was a fantastic showdown!
This fourth instalment in the series is my favourite one yet and I hope I’ve highlighted to you the importance of reading these books in order as there is a continuous story and you will not get the most out of this book if you haven’t read the previous ones � they’re all great so you have nothing to worry about, you absolutely need to get on board with this series.
With series comes the return of characters you know and like, some not so much, but it brings a level of familiarity and comfort to your read. They, along with Kay, give this novel a wonderful sense of teamwork and it’s a pleasure to see them supporting each other. I have to give a special shoutout to Adam, Kay’s husband, because I love the way he supports her and puts no additional pressure on her. Side note: he’s a vet and always brings home animals to look after and I love seeing which animal they’ll be taking care of each time.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again � Amphlett knows how to write a gripping mystery and will have you devouring the pages of this one, Kay is one of my favourite female fictional detectives and this novel has it all and I highly, highly recommend you read it.
*My thanks to Emma Mitchell FPR for providing me with a digital copy of this book*
And, most importantly to me, Kay finally comes face to face with her nemesis. I say finally because I’ve been waiting since book one for this very book � let me explain without spoiling any of the previous books � in book one, Sacred To Death, we find out Kay had been investigated by the Professional Standards Committee, they ruled in her favour and since her return to work she has been targeted both personally and professionally by someone with a vendetta against her. You can imagine the levels of anticipation I felt during this read as this element is finally revealed, suspense that has been building throughout the entire series, and I must commend Amphlett because this was a big risk, capturing readers in book one and drawing out this mystery but it absolutely paid off because it was a fantastic showdown!
This fourth instalment in the series is my favourite one yet and I hope I’ve highlighted to you the importance of reading these books in order as there is a continuous story and you will not get the most out of this book if you haven’t read the previous ones � they’re all great so you have nothing to worry about, you absolutely need to get on board with this series.
With series comes the return of characters you know and like, some not so much, but it brings a level of familiarity and comfort to your read. They, along with Kay, give this novel a wonderful sense of teamwork and it’s a pleasure to see them supporting each other. I have to give a special shoutout to Adam, Kay’s husband, because I love the way he supports her and puts no additional pressure on her. Side note: he’s a vet and always brings home animals to look after and I love seeing which animal they’ll be taking care of each time.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again � Amphlett knows how to write a gripping mystery and will have you devouring the pages of this one, Kay is one of my favourite female fictional detectives and this novel has it all and I highly, highly recommend you read it.
*My thanks to Emma Mitchell FPR for providing me with a digital copy of this book*
November 10, 2017
I’ve become a huge fan of this series over the past year, I loved Scared to Death, Will to Live and One to Watch and have been anxiously awaiting book four. That’s the thing with this series, each book may resolve a case but they always leave you wanting more! It’s also one of those series where the books get better with each installment and they all come highly recommended by me.
One of the things that sets these books apart from its counterparts is that Amphlett always manages to come up with a fresh premise for each book. This time, Kay and team are called to assist with a car accident, which seems odd to them until they realize that there was a dead woman in the trunk of the car. (See, unique!) There is the perfect balance between Kay’s work life and her personal life, per usual you receive some answers to long awaited questions but you wind up with additional questions as well. As much as this frustrates me it does so in the best possible way and just makes me all the more eager to get my hands on the next book.
Hell to Pay was another exciting read that gets your adrenaline going, the pacing is fast and furious and begins on page one and never ends. The chapters are short and flow together beautifully and before you know it you’re halfway through with no plans to stop until you’re done. Amphlett has most assuredly found her stride with this series and fans of dark, gritty police procedurals will love Kay, her team and the amazing writing.
One of the things that sets these books apart from its counterparts is that Amphlett always manages to come up with a fresh premise for each book. This time, Kay and team are called to assist with a car accident, which seems odd to them until they realize that there was a dead woman in the trunk of the car. (See, unique!) There is the perfect balance between Kay’s work life and her personal life, per usual you receive some answers to long awaited questions but you wind up with additional questions as well. As much as this frustrates me it does so in the best possible way and just makes me all the more eager to get my hands on the next book.
Hell to Pay was another exciting read that gets your adrenaline going, the pacing is fast and furious and begins on page one and never ends. The chapters are short and flow together beautifully and before you know it you’re halfway through with no plans to stop until you’re done. Amphlett has most assuredly found her stride with this series and fans of dark, gritty police procedurals will love Kay, her team and the amazing writing.
December 10, 2017
I can't believe this is already the fourth book in the astounding DS Kay Hunter series by Rachel Amphlett. I've read and enjoyed them all. This series just gets better and better with each new instalment.
Like the others, this book starts off with a bang! A car veers off a motorway and ends up all crumpled up at the bottom of a steep embankment by the side of the road. The driver is rushed to hospital in critical condition. But that's not the reason why Kay is roused from sleep in the middle of the night. It's because of the contents of the car boot...
"A pale arm snaked out from the boot and over the rear licence plate at an impossible angle."
In the boot police find the body of a young woman. Who is this woman? Who is the driver of the car? Did he kill her? Or was she killed in the accident? What happened? Where was he taking her? Will the driver survive and answer these questions?
Initial investigations into this accident immediately lead Kay and her team on the trail of her arch nemesis, Jozef Demiri, the organised crime boss Kay Hunter had vowed revenge on for all the anguish and pain he had put her through in the past. Kay has been constantly on the lookout to catch and put Demiri away for good and this incident has just presented her with an opportunity to do so. But how can Kay catch him when the shrewd criminal is always one step ahead of the police? What the police find is evidence of underground business dealings far, far more horrifying than they had ever imagined. This makes Kay even more determined to put a stop to Demiri's reign. But will she manage to catch him and make him finally pay for all he did?
Well, Hell to Pay is yet another well-written, fast-paced, nail-biting thriller that kept me interested and on the edge of my seat from start to finish. In this book internal police politics and corruption play a central role. Kay is a great character. She's a tenacious, bold and competent detective, but she's also a vulnerable woman who has had her fair share of heartache. In this book I felt really afraid for Kay's safety more than once. She has enemies both inside and outside the police station. And she's been waiting for a face-to-face confrontation with her arch enemy for so long, now it was happening I was curious to find out how it will all end, what would happen, who of the two would come out victor. I certainly was not prepared for that heart-pounding ending which left me literally holding my breath.
The chapters about Kay's private life serve as a short respite from all the tension and brutality of her life at work. After a snake and a Great Dane, I was curious to see what creature Kay's veterinary husband Adam would bring home this time for temporary residence.
Though this book can be read as a standalone, I would still advise readers to go through the series in order. With a clever, fast-paced, well-thought out plot, a bunch of realistic characters, several suspenseful, terrifying scenes and twists and turns galore, Hell to Pay is just another fabulous addition to the series and I highly recommend it.
With thanks to the author for an ARC of the book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
Like the others, this book starts off with a bang! A car veers off a motorway and ends up all crumpled up at the bottom of a steep embankment by the side of the road. The driver is rushed to hospital in critical condition. But that's not the reason why Kay is roused from sleep in the middle of the night. It's because of the contents of the car boot...
"A pale arm snaked out from the boot and over the rear licence plate at an impossible angle."
In the boot police find the body of a young woman. Who is this woman? Who is the driver of the car? Did he kill her? Or was she killed in the accident? What happened? Where was he taking her? Will the driver survive and answer these questions?
Initial investigations into this accident immediately lead Kay and her team on the trail of her arch nemesis, Jozef Demiri, the organised crime boss Kay Hunter had vowed revenge on for all the anguish and pain he had put her through in the past. Kay has been constantly on the lookout to catch and put Demiri away for good and this incident has just presented her with an opportunity to do so. But how can Kay catch him when the shrewd criminal is always one step ahead of the police? What the police find is evidence of underground business dealings far, far more horrifying than they had ever imagined. This makes Kay even more determined to put a stop to Demiri's reign. But will she manage to catch him and make him finally pay for all he did?
Well, Hell to Pay is yet another well-written, fast-paced, nail-biting thriller that kept me interested and on the edge of my seat from start to finish. In this book internal police politics and corruption play a central role. Kay is a great character. She's a tenacious, bold and competent detective, but she's also a vulnerable woman who has had her fair share of heartache. In this book I felt really afraid for Kay's safety more than once. She has enemies both inside and outside the police station. And she's been waiting for a face-to-face confrontation with her arch enemy for so long, now it was happening I was curious to find out how it will all end, what would happen, who of the two would come out victor. I certainly was not prepared for that heart-pounding ending which left me literally holding my breath.
The chapters about Kay's private life serve as a short respite from all the tension and brutality of her life at work. After a snake and a Great Dane, I was curious to see what creature Kay's veterinary husband Adam would bring home this time for temporary residence.
Though this book can be read as a standalone, I would still advise readers to go through the series in order. With a clever, fast-paced, well-thought out plot, a bunch of realistic characters, several suspenseful, terrifying scenes and twists and turns galore, Hell to Pay is just another fabulous addition to the series and I highly recommend it.
With thanks to the author for an ARC of the book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
November 11, 2017
Detective Kay Hunter is officially in my top detectives of all time. She's strong, intelligent, determined and I think a great role model. She does her job properly and even when things get personal, she stays professional to make sure the job gets done.
Hell To Pay is the fourth instalment in the series, but though it is fully recommended to read the three previous books because of how good they are, this can be read as a stand alone as there is plenty of character development throughout. There are some spoilers for previous books though if you are planning on reading them all.
I was completely sucked into this story and became increasingly invested in the outcome. When real life came knocking and I had to put the book down, I was constantly wondering what would happen next and how things would be resolved. There's a lot of tension and at times, you're nervously waiting to see if something would go wrong.
I've grown to love detectives portrayed with a happy home life, instead of the tried and tested cranky, alcoholic loners (loveable though they may be) and I love the balance we are given, seeing Kay's home life with Adam and the simple joy she gets out of babysitting for some Guinea Pigs. I like how they are both so supportive of each other and their respective careers. It comes across as a very healthy relationship.
Hell To Pay is incredibly well written and I thoroughly enjoyed my read, in fact I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, just to see where it goes from here and what decisions Kay will make following everything that has happened to her.
Hell To Pay is the fourth instalment in the series, but though it is fully recommended to read the three previous books because of how good they are, this can be read as a stand alone as there is plenty of character development throughout. There are some spoilers for previous books though if you are planning on reading them all.
I was completely sucked into this story and became increasingly invested in the outcome. When real life came knocking and I had to put the book down, I was constantly wondering what would happen next and how things would be resolved. There's a lot of tension and at times, you're nervously waiting to see if something would go wrong.
I've grown to love detectives portrayed with a happy home life, instead of the tried and tested cranky, alcoholic loners (loveable though they may be) and I love the balance we are given, seeing Kay's home life with Adam and the simple joy she gets out of babysitting for some Guinea Pigs. I like how they are both so supportive of each other and their respective careers. It comes across as a very healthy relationship.
Hell To Pay is incredibly well written and I thoroughly enjoyed my read, in fact I am already eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, just to see where it goes from here and what decisions Kay will make following everything that has happened to her.
April 24, 2018
When Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter is called out late at night by DI Devon Sharp, she wonders why a car accident requires their presence but then Sharp shows her the arm dangling out of the boot. Clearly, the owner of the arm didn’t belong there and the detectives soon learn that the young woman may have been dead when she was put in the boot or may have died in the accident. Whichever it is, something is definitely offkilter but they have no idea where their investigation will take them.
Two years earlier, Kay had been accused of causing the police to have to release a dangerous criminal and, ever since, she has been trying to find out who set her up and has been determined to bring Jozef Demiri to justice. As the current case heats up, she and her colleagues discover some very ugly activities including sex trafficking and murder but also what appears to be corruption within the police, all somehow connected to Demiri. At the same time, Kay becomes painfully aware that she herself is being spied upon but she has no idea who could be doing that and the answers may not come before it’s too late.
In the three previous Kay Hunter books, there is a level of intensity that keeps those stories moving at a rapid pace. That same intensity is here in Hell to Pay but it’s heightened by a deep emotional current running throughout, affecting more than just Kay. Still, Kay is the one who made me sniffle a time or two and I really sympathized with her roiling feelings, especially regarding her lost baby.
Narrator Alison Campbell gets better and better with each book and her easy tone and near-perfect voices make these terrific stories a pleasure to listen to.
I’m sorry this four book tour is coming to an end now; I’ve come to think of these characters as old friends, friends I would like to know in reality. Kay is a warmhearted and trusting person who has had that trust damaged but she never loses sight of her responsibilities and her desire to make things right in the world. I’ll miss her and her husband, Adam, as well as her colleagues—Sharp, Barnes, Carys, Gavin—but wait! I don’t have to say goodbye just yet as the fifth book, Call to Arms, came out last month and I can hardly wait to start.
Two years earlier, Kay had been accused of causing the police to have to release a dangerous criminal and, ever since, she has been trying to find out who set her up and has been determined to bring Jozef Demiri to justice. As the current case heats up, she and her colleagues discover some very ugly activities including sex trafficking and murder but also what appears to be corruption within the police, all somehow connected to Demiri. At the same time, Kay becomes painfully aware that she herself is being spied upon but she has no idea who could be doing that and the answers may not come before it’s too late.
In the three previous Kay Hunter books, there is a level of intensity that keeps those stories moving at a rapid pace. That same intensity is here in Hell to Pay but it’s heightened by a deep emotional current running throughout, affecting more than just Kay. Still, Kay is the one who made me sniffle a time or two and I really sympathized with her roiling feelings, especially regarding her lost baby.
Narrator Alison Campbell gets better and better with each book and her easy tone and near-perfect voices make these terrific stories a pleasure to listen to.
I’m sorry this four book tour is coming to an end now; I’ve come to think of these characters as old friends, friends I would like to know in reality. Kay is a warmhearted and trusting person who has had that trust damaged but she never loses sight of her responsibilities and her desire to make things right in the world. I’ll miss her and her husband, Adam, as well as her colleagues—Sharp, Barnes, Carys, Gavin—but wait! I don’t have to say goodbye just yet as the fifth book, Call to Arms, came out last month and I can hardly wait to start.
November 23, 2017
Eeeeek! So we are back in Kent and faced with loss; retribution; exploitation; people trafficking; fear; violence; manipulation; control and the search for justice! #BOOM!
What a FANTASTIC opening to this book! I won’t say what it is, but the #killerhook that has me jumping up and down with excitement was there and I LOVED it! This for me, was a fast-paced page turner although I was a little lost at times as I have missed a few books in between � MY BAD! I loved the character development and narrative � told from the third-person POV so you followed the story as you were right there, amongst all the action!
DS Kay Hunter is back and determined as ever! But this time�.it’s personal! Her nemesis returns to wreak havoc and open a pandora’s box of memories from the past that she would sooner forget! I found Kay to be quite vulnerable, yet her stubborn nature and absolute resolve to bring justice, outweighs everything else. Kay is a wee bit reckless, but I like this about her and it suits her character to a “T�. I also enjoyed “meeting� Adam again and to see that this pair are as strong as ever, despite their misfortune.
Jozef Demiri � what a superb character! Yes he made my skin crawl- but that is exactly what he should do! He was creepy, manipulative, and oh so friggin sly! People fear him � though he views it as respect and his poses a real threat to Kay�.watch you back Hunter!
DCI Harrison was also an intriguing character � I wasn’t sure what to make of him; there was tension in the air throughout the book…hmmmm�.I think I will leave it at that and see if any other reader felt the same!
There was an abundance of brilliant characters in this book but I only touched on a few that really stood out to me. However, it is clear that Rachel Amphlett has a real talent for making her characters, even those we should not like, as believable and relatable!
Sooooo…do I recommend this book? Hell Yeah I do! Hell To Pay is a fantastic game of cat & mouse, with a dark intensity that has you screaming at the pages! Such a clever plot, quite emotive and a great build up of suspense � add this #badboy to your TBR now!
What a FANTASTIC opening to this book! I won’t say what it is, but the #killerhook that has me jumping up and down with excitement was there and I LOVED it! This for me, was a fast-paced page turner although I was a little lost at times as I have missed a few books in between � MY BAD! I loved the character development and narrative � told from the third-person POV so you followed the story as you were right there, amongst all the action!
DS Kay Hunter is back and determined as ever! But this time�.it’s personal! Her nemesis returns to wreak havoc and open a pandora’s box of memories from the past that she would sooner forget! I found Kay to be quite vulnerable, yet her stubborn nature and absolute resolve to bring justice, outweighs everything else. Kay is a wee bit reckless, but I like this about her and it suits her character to a “T�. I also enjoyed “meeting� Adam again and to see that this pair are as strong as ever, despite their misfortune.
Jozef Demiri � what a superb character! Yes he made my skin crawl- but that is exactly what he should do! He was creepy, manipulative, and oh so friggin sly! People fear him � though he views it as respect and his poses a real threat to Kay�.watch you back Hunter!
DCI Harrison was also an intriguing character � I wasn’t sure what to make of him; there was tension in the air throughout the book…hmmmm�.I think I will leave it at that and see if any other reader felt the same!
There was an abundance of brilliant characters in this book but I only touched on a few that really stood out to me. However, it is clear that Rachel Amphlett has a real talent for making her characters, even those we should not like, as believable and relatable!
Sooooo…do I recommend this book? Hell Yeah I do! Hell To Pay is a fantastic game of cat & mouse, with a dark intensity that has you screaming at the pages! Such a clever plot, quite emotive and a great build up of suspense � add this #badboy to your TBR now!
January 2, 2018
4.5 stars.
Yikes, that was a bit full on. Kay Hunter and her team are called out to a car accident one night and, oh dear, there's a dead woman in the boot (trunk) of the car. The driver is in a critical condition and not able to talk. The car turns out to belong to Kay's nemesis, Jozef Demiri, and he doesn't like anyone interfering in his business. Meanwhile, the first three books see Kay secretly trying to determine who is trying to ruin her career. In this book we get some answers.
The action gets fast and furious towards the end. Kay is in big trouble as Demiri comes after her. Who will win this encounter? The book seemed to end on a cliffhanger with the words - "there will be hell to pay" so I'm thing the next book will be heart-stoppingly tense (yee ha).
Kay is a good detective and fiercely loyal to her team. Her husband (or boyfriend?) Adam is a vet and just adorable. Its a pleasant change to have a series where the main character is not dysfunctional. This is another series that's just getting better with each book. Ah the stress - there's too many books out there!
Yikes, that was a bit full on. Kay Hunter and her team are called out to a car accident one night and, oh dear, there's a dead woman in the boot (trunk) of the car. The driver is in a critical condition and not able to talk. The car turns out to belong to Kay's nemesis, Jozef Demiri, and he doesn't like anyone interfering in his business. Meanwhile, the first three books see Kay secretly trying to determine who is trying to ruin her career. In this book we get some answers.
The action gets fast and furious towards the end. Kay is in big trouble as Demiri comes after her. Who will win this encounter? The book seemed to end on a cliffhanger with the words - "there will be hell to pay" so I'm thing the next book will be heart-stoppingly tense (yee ha).
Kay is a good detective and fiercely loyal to her team. Her husband (or boyfriend?) Adam is a vet and just adorable. Its a pleasant change to have a series where the main character is not dysfunctional. This is another series that's just getting better with each book. Ah the stress - there's too many books out there!
July 18, 2018
Finished reading: July 10th 2018
"In all my years working on this team, I've never seen anything as bad as what's down here."
*** A copy of this bookÌýwas kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews .
August 10, 2020
Very good read, toss in some nasty characters, a couple of cute gerbils, some red herrings, and you have a great police procedural! Most of the back story gets concluded, but still there lurks more!
2 thumbs up, 4 stars
From the Blurb: When a road traffic accident on a dark autumn night uncovers a disturbing conspiracy, Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter’s investigation exposes a ruthless serial killer exploiting vulnerable young women.
With her enemies unmasked and her career spiralling out of control, Kay’s determination to seek vengeance for the victims brings her dangerously close to those who want to silence her.
Undeterred, she uncovers the real reason behind a plot to destroy her career and sets in motion a terrifying chain of events.
Could Kay’s need for revenge be her undoing, or will she survive to see justice served?
2 thumbs up, 4 stars
From the Blurb: When a road traffic accident on a dark autumn night uncovers a disturbing conspiracy, Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter’s investigation exposes a ruthless serial killer exploiting vulnerable young women.
With her enemies unmasked and her career spiralling out of control, Kay’s determination to seek vengeance for the victims brings her dangerously close to those who want to silence her.
Undeterred, she uncovers the real reason behind a plot to destroy her career and sets in motion a terrifying chain of events.
Could Kay’s need for revenge be her undoing, or will she survive to see justice served?
November 16, 2017
#HellToPay opens up with perfect scene setting from Rachel Amphlett; I could almost hear the sigh of displeasure from DS Kay Hunter as she was dragged out of bed by a call from DI Sharp to attend what appeared to be a routine road traffic accident. But hey this is the Kay Hunter series and you all know there is no such thing as routine when she is involved! This is no routine accident and what follows is a grisly and gripping domino effect as a terrifying chain of events are uncovered leading Kay Hunter, once again, into a race to deliver justice. I tell no lie when I say that this is one of the #TopThrillerCrimeSeries out there!
Kay Hunter has proved herself time and time again to be a determined and gutsy detective. This lady is a rule bender and is determined to deliver justice with no qualms about being flexible with policing policies and procedures if it will help her in her quest. She is fiercely loyal to her team and they are a tight-knitÌýunit. Despite a previous Professional Standards Investigation which left Kay feeling as though she could trust no-one she has built up a solid respect and trust from her team but she remains determined to get uncover just who and what lay behind the move to ruin her reputation. Kay and her superior, DI Devon Sharp, work well together, she trusts him implicitly and in Hell to Pay both detectives are furious when it is suggested that their investigation is handed over to the Serious and Organised Crime Unit, headed up by DCI Simon Harrison. They manage to persuade the Chief Superintendent to second them onto the team for the investigation but it is clear that there is a tension between Sharp and Harrison and I was left wondering just who could be trusted in the whole affair.
There are some pretty nasty characters in this novel and while I'm naming no names there are a few faces from the past that pop-up and OMFG we are talking seriously bad boys here! Not the bad boys that are bad in that "good" kind of way but bad as in so badass that there are no redeeming features about their personalities. Has Kay bitten off more than she can chew this time around I wondered a few times! These guys are not only involved in drugs and violence, Hell to Pay also covers human trafficking, prostitution and slavery. But don't worry there is nothing gratuitous or grisly on show but you just know the bad stuff that has been going down in this book! Taught, tense narrative leaves you in no doubt that bad things are going to happen. A plausible plot and compelling characters draw you into the dark and murky underworld of organised crime where knowledge is power and some people are only too happy to wield that power to get exactly what they want.
Such is Rachel Amphlett's skill she had my heart in my mouth every time that Kay returned home, knowing that her partner Adam was away at a conference meant that each time she drew up at her house I felt as though I was right there with her and watching every shadow, nook and cranny waiting for the bogeyman to jump out!
The tension just constantly ramped up as I turned each page, my heart was pounding and I simply could not devour this fast enough! As usual, Rachel left me sitting right on the edge of my seat and screaming for more as I got to the last page! OMFG Rachel Amphlett, book five cannot come fast enough for me!
If you like your novels fast-paced and twisted with a tension that leaves you weak at the knees; a narrative that has your heart pounding and a cast of characters that will either have you cheering them on or gunning them down (depending on what side you are on!) then you will love this book - hell you will love the whole series! Once again Rachel Amphlett has given me the perfect mix for a book, all the thrills and spills, the red herrings and plot twists, the compelling characters and a nerve-wracking rollercoaster ride of a read that seen me finish it in one sitting! Beware, start reading this book and prepare to lose the rest of your day!
Kay Hunter has proved herself time and time again to be a determined and gutsy detective. This lady is a rule bender and is determined to deliver justice with no qualms about being flexible with policing policies and procedures if it will help her in her quest. She is fiercely loyal to her team and they are a tight-knitÌýunit. Despite a previous Professional Standards Investigation which left Kay feeling as though she could trust no-one she has built up a solid respect and trust from her team but she remains determined to get uncover just who and what lay behind the move to ruin her reputation. Kay and her superior, DI Devon Sharp, work well together, she trusts him implicitly and in Hell to Pay both detectives are furious when it is suggested that their investigation is handed over to the Serious and Organised Crime Unit, headed up by DCI Simon Harrison. They manage to persuade the Chief Superintendent to second them onto the team for the investigation but it is clear that there is a tension between Sharp and Harrison and I was left wondering just who could be trusted in the whole affair.
There are some pretty nasty characters in this novel and while I'm naming no names there are a few faces from the past that pop-up and OMFG we are talking seriously bad boys here! Not the bad boys that are bad in that "good" kind of way but bad as in so badass that there are no redeeming features about their personalities. Has Kay bitten off more than she can chew this time around I wondered a few times! These guys are not only involved in drugs and violence, Hell to Pay also covers human trafficking, prostitution and slavery. But don't worry there is nothing gratuitous or grisly on show but you just know the bad stuff that has been going down in this book! Taught, tense narrative leaves you in no doubt that bad things are going to happen. A plausible plot and compelling characters draw you into the dark and murky underworld of organised crime where knowledge is power and some people are only too happy to wield that power to get exactly what they want.
Such is Rachel Amphlett's skill she had my heart in my mouth every time that Kay returned home, knowing that her partner Adam was away at a conference meant that each time she drew up at her house I felt as though I was right there with her and watching every shadow, nook and cranny waiting for the bogeyman to jump out!
The tension just constantly ramped up as I turned each page, my heart was pounding and I simply could not devour this fast enough! As usual, Rachel left me sitting right on the edge of my seat and screaming for more as I got to the last page! OMFG Rachel Amphlett, book five cannot come fast enough for me!
If you like your novels fast-paced and twisted with a tension that leaves you weak at the knees; a narrative that has your heart pounding and a cast of characters that will either have you cheering them on or gunning them down (depending on what side you are on!) then you will love this book - hell you will love the whole series! Once again Rachel Amphlett has given me the perfect mix for a book, all the thrills and spills, the red herrings and plot twists, the compelling characters and a nerve-wracking rollercoaster ride of a read that seen me finish it in one sitting! Beware, start reading this book and prepare to lose the rest of your day!
November 18, 2017
When a traffic accident leaves the driver mortally wounded, the Police discover the lifeless body of a young woman in the boot of the car. Somehow, the investigation fuels Detective Kay Hunter’s quest for revenge and she will stop at nothing to get the culprit � regardless the danger for her own life
A traffic incident becomes a case for Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter and her colleagues, when the body of a young woman is found hidden in the boot of the car. She looks to have been murdered and Kay and her colleagues blame the driver of the car who has been taken to hospital in critical condition. Upon inspecting the crime scene, the realisation that this could be the work of a devious serial killer makes Kay sick of “the thought that they might have missed a practised killer.� Have they stumbled upon an evil conspiracy and will they discover more murdered young women during the course of their investigation?
| Storyline |
While Kay and her team anxiously await the driver’s recovery, the investigation causes quite a few problems with only a few leads to go on. Frustrating as it is, Kay knows it is early days and she is convinced they will find the culprit despite the tedious investigation. But Kay is not prepared for the shock when they discover who owns the vehicle. Is it possible that Kay’s enemy of old, a sadistic and vicious criminal, is responsible for the murder? This could be the chance she has been waiting for � the opportunity for vengeance. Kay’s husband, Adam, is anxious she will find herself in mortal danger while he is away as they have personally experienced what the criminal is capable of. That is not all: will not the internal squabbles within the Police cause her enemy to seek his own pervert revenge? With Adam gone and Kay’s boss, DI Sharp pre-occupied, Kay is well aware she has to tread carefully to not jeopardise the investigation or put her own life in danger but all she can think of is getting her enemy and make him pay!
| My Thoughts |
I love Hell to Pay! As someone who has followed Detective Kay Hunter from the first book, Scared to Death, I have watched her grow more confident and see her through difficult times and life-threatening situations and suffered with her when her arch enemy dealt blow after blow. Even if, for me, the tension was at times less palpable in Hell to Pay, it still is a fast-paced and gripping thriller that I had to read in one session. As always, it was a pleasure reconnecting to Kay Hunter � I love a spicy female detective willing to kick arse and not afraid to stir things up. This time, Kay comes close to finding out the truth (if you want to know more, read the previous books in the series!) but in doing so, opens up a whole new angle of investigation leaving us with many more questions and hungry for the next book in this well-written series!
Read the review on my website:
A traffic incident becomes a case for Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter and her colleagues, when the body of a young woman is found hidden in the boot of the car. She looks to have been murdered and Kay and her colleagues blame the driver of the car who has been taken to hospital in critical condition. Upon inspecting the crime scene, the realisation that this could be the work of a devious serial killer makes Kay sick of “the thought that they might have missed a practised killer.� Have they stumbled upon an evil conspiracy and will they discover more murdered young women during the course of their investigation?
| Storyline |
While Kay and her team anxiously await the driver’s recovery, the investigation causes quite a few problems with only a few leads to go on. Frustrating as it is, Kay knows it is early days and she is convinced they will find the culprit despite the tedious investigation. But Kay is not prepared for the shock when they discover who owns the vehicle. Is it possible that Kay’s enemy of old, a sadistic and vicious criminal, is responsible for the murder? This could be the chance she has been waiting for � the opportunity for vengeance. Kay’s husband, Adam, is anxious she will find herself in mortal danger while he is away as they have personally experienced what the criminal is capable of. That is not all: will not the internal squabbles within the Police cause her enemy to seek his own pervert revenge? With Adam gone and Kay’s boss, DI Sharp pre-occupied, Kay is well aware she has to tread carefully to not jeopardise the investigation or put her own life in danger but all she can think of is getting her enemy and make him pay!
| My Thoughts |
I love Hell to Pay! As someone who has followed Detective Kay Hunter from the first book, Scared to Death, I have watched her grow more confident and see her through difficult times and life-threatening situations and suffered with her when her arch enemy dealt blow after blow. Even if, for me, the tension was at times less palpable in Hell to Pay, it still is a fast-paced and gripping thriller that I had to read in one session. As always, it was a pleasure reconnecting to Kay Hunter � I love a spicy female detective willing to kick arse and not afraid to stir things up. This time, Kay comes close to finding out the truth (if you want to know more, read the previous books in the series!) but in doing so, opens up a whole new angle of investigation leaving us with many more questions and hungry for the next book in this well-written series!
Read the review on my website:
Read
November 12, 2017Review to follow for blog tour
November 9, 2017
The Kay Hunter Series will be the death of me!
If you are not aware of my obsession with these books yet, you can find my reviews of the three first books , and .
Now let’s come back to the point.
Why?
Let’s have a debrief of my experience with Hell to Pay!
Suspect number 1: A perfectly weaved plot
Suspect number 2: a comfortable familiarity and enough to keep you on your toes
Suspect Number 3: EMOTIONS ALL THE WAY
Verdict:
If you are not aware of my obsession with these books yet, you can find my reviews of the three first books , and .
Now let’s come back to the point.
Hell to Pay. Hell to read! No, actually, the smooth and recognizable style of the author makes this fourth story a beauty to read. Every chapter follows the other without a bump, everything flows together, offering you a false sense of safety before giving you adrenaline shots the next page! I wasn’t lucky enough to read it in one sitting, so feeling my Kindle in my bag every day, each time I reached into it for a pen or my diary, was pure torture. All I wanted was to be locked in a room with enough time to devour this new step in my favorite series. Because yes, The Kay Hunter series stays on top!
Why?
Let’s have a debrief of my experience with Hell to Pay!
Suspect number 1: A perfectly weaved plot
Each of the previous books can be read as a standalone. I even started with the second book! But they all had one thing in common, a subplot subtly intertwined with the current intrigue, a nameless threat, a brilliant layer that added an edge to everything that happened to Kay. Well, this fourth book takes this plot to another level. Darn it, reviewing a series is hell! Let’s just say you get some answers, and you get more questions. I was worried the thin thread of this intense and harrowing piece of narration would suffer from being stretched for too long, but oh my, Rachel Amphlett knows what she is doing. Things take an unexpected turn, the truth is reachable, leaving tension in its way. I was worried because we all know the closer we get to the end of something, the bigger the risks. The author takes those risks and masterfully creates a web of intrigue that seems endless. Don’t think you’ll get bored chasing after thin air, you get more than a fair share of information, and surprises! I’m still not over everything that happened and I don’t think I will until I get the next book!!!
Suspect number 2: a comfortable familiarity and enough to keep you on your toes
Kay is my favorite character for a reason. She’s a cop, but she’s also the kind of woman who’ll jump at a sound in her house! Okay, if you’ve read the previous books, you know she has more reasons than us for that but still, once again, she felt real, as if we were sitting next to each other. I love her for this. And for our shared habits, like putting our favorite jeans and sweater when we’re back from work! I wondered which Kay we would get in this book, and I was relieved to find my old friend unchanged, only fired up by an urge of revenge, of justice. Yet, her humanity came through everything she did, and every decision she made. In movies, we often see main characters with a mission suddenly getting invincible and in perfect control of their emotions, as if they were locked away somewhere not to disturb the mission. To hell with that! Kay keeps here emotions and her past, she uses them to keep going, but she has limits, and this just emphasizes the authenticity and realism of the story.
Kay is not the only one I was happy to be reunited with. I want my own Adam. Her married life, the house, the pets, all those things I hoped to find again were here, immersing me in a life I passionately follow.
But not everything is pink and happy! New faces, new names faced old colleagues, old allies. This book reads itself as real life, you trust, you doubt, you try, you fail. You hate the guts of some people, and you try to contain your emotions�
Suspect Number 3: EMOTIONS ALL THE WAY
Anger? Check. Fear? Check. Exhaustion? Check. Curiosity? Check. Pain? Check. Worry? Check. Busy? Check. I could go one forever. The team gathered for a meal warmed my heart, a separation made me feel uneasy, the idea of getting a bad guy excited me to no ends. Hell to Pay is a lake with a monster under the surface, and Rachel Amphlett throws pebbles in it, sending you through hell and back, to a sleepless night to a nice evening, to a warm coffee to a high emergency situation, to awful crime scenes to the end of the world. Or so you think!
Verdict:
I cannot say anything more without giving away key information. You must stay in the dark until you get your copy! Hell to Pay is an absolutely brilliant fire-filled crime story, checking all the boxes of a police procedural, with this little X factor that makes it unique and addictive!
September 6, 2020
Another solid entry in the Detective Kay Hunter series, with a good plot and character development. Be warned don't read them out of sequence!
September 10, 2021
Another good one in the series. Finally some resolution to some of Kay Hunter's tormentors. Definite shock value warning for those who are squeamish. Entertaining police procedural series. I'm hooked.
August 30, 2018
Hell to Pay is book four of Detective Kay Hunter series by Rachel Amphlett. When a young girls body turned up in the boot of a car Detective Kay Hunter was called to the scene. However, what Detective Kay Hunter found she realise the person who causes her to lose her child is back. Detective Kay Hunter did not know that the murder of the young girl will change her life and everyone around her. The readers of Hell to Pay will continue to follow the twists and turns in the investigation of the young girl's death to find out what happens
Hell to Pay is part of a series that I enjoy reading, and Rachel Amphlett engages me with the plot from the beginning of this book. Hell to Pay is well written and researched by Rachel Amphlett. The portrayal of the characters in Hell to Pay and the way they interacted with each other done well by Rachel Amphlett. I love the animal characters and their interaction with the plot of Hell to Pay. The ending of Hell to Pay was a surprise to me at no time did I guess the conclusion of the case.
The readers of Hell to Pay will learn about law enforcement procedures and corruption. Also, Hell to Pay highlights the issues of human trafficking of young girls who first language is not English.
I recommend this book.
Hell to Pay is part of a series that I enjoy reading, and Rachel Amphlett engages me with the plot from the beginning of this book. Hell to Pay is well written and researched by Rachel Amphlett. The portrayal of the characters in Hell to Pay and the way they interacted with each other done well by Rachel Amphlett. I love the animal characters and their interaction with the plot of Hell to Pay. The ending of Hell to Pay was a surprise to me at no time did I guess the conclusion of the case.
The readers of Hell to Pay will learn about law enforcement procedures and corruption. Also, Hell to Pay highlights the issues of human trafficking of young girls who first language is not English.
I recommend this book.
February 12, 2021
I struggled to put this down, as evidenced by how quickly I read this. I quickly recalled details from the previous books in the series, and enjoyed as this started with a big bang, and didn't let up. The plot twists came thick and fast, and kept me guessing, even with the antagonist's motives revealed -- at least somewhat. I did roll my eyes at the euphemisms used throughout, and ignoring the obvious massive trope during the climax, that kept me turning pages until the end. The resolution was too short, and I'll have to read the next in the series very soon.
January 4, 2018
Hell To Pay is the fourth book in the Detective Kay Hunter series written by talented author, Rachel Amphlett and it’s a cracking series for established as well as brand new fans of the crime genre. I have had the joy of reading the first three books in the series (and in order, and that’s an achievement for me in itself!) so if you missed them the first time around, pop over to damppebbles.com and check them out!
Hell To Pay opens with Detective Hunter being called to a car accident in the dead of night. What appears to be a fairly easy to explain incident turns a lot darker when the corpse of a young woman is found in the boot of the car. The driver is unconscious and barely alive. What Kay doesn’t realise is that she has moved one step closer to the man who has been making her life a misery for some time. Regular readers of the series will be aware that Kay Hunter has been suffering from issues at home and work since the evidence in a major case she was involved with went missing. Having been investigated by Professional Standards and miscarrying her daughter as a result, Kay is on a mission to discover who is out to destroy her. What she discovers defies evil and could well be the death of her�
I love this series and always look forward to reading the next instalment. I hope Amphlett continues to write about her beleaguered Detective Hunter for some time to come as they’re the sort of books a reader can lose themselves in for hours on end. The shocking first chapter had me hooked and I was intrigued as to who the mysterious, murderous driver of the car was. I then realised that the culprit was already in custody meaning a large percentage of the investigation was pretty much wrapped up, so I started to wonder where the author would take the rest of the story. And that’s where things started to take a much slower pace for me. I love this series and I will always recommend it to crime fans, but I was wanting something more to happen. Which is probably one of the strangest things I have ever said as there is so much going on in Hell To Pay, all manner of evil and deviant deeds being carried out. But weirdly, this time around, it just wasn’t enough to satisfy me as a reader.
The author has successfully managed to introduce her cast of characters to any new readers picking up Hell To Pay as their first Detective Hunter read. I was thrilled to see the return of Adam, Kay’s rather gorgeous other-half, return to the pages but was disappointed when he headed north of the border for a conference, for the majority of the book. Adam is such an essential part of Kay’s life and he keeps her grounded. He was missed.
Would I recommend this book? I would recommend this series 100%! The book ends with an explosive and shocking cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to see how the situation plays out in book five. It’s not my favourite in the series and this time around I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had hoped, but that’s just me. There are MANY other readers out there who had a very different reading experience to mine. I’m just an old grump!
Three and a half stars out of five (rounded up to four stars)
I chose to read and review an eARC of Hell To Pay. The above review is my own unbiased opinion. My thanks to Emma and the author for asking me to be on the blog tour.
Hell To Pay opens with Detective Hunter being called to a car accident in the dead of night. What appears to be a fairly easy to explain incident turns a lot darker when the corpse of a young woman is found in the boot of the car. The driver is unconscious and barely alive. What Kay doesn’t realise is that she has moved one step closer to the man who has been making her life a misery for some time. Regular readers of the series will be aware that Kay Hunter has been suffering from issues at home and work since the evidence in a major case she was involved with went missing. Having been investigated by Professional Standards and miscarrying her daughter as a result, Kay is on a mission to discover who is out to destroy her. What she discovers defies evil and could well be the death of her�
I love this series and always look forward to reading the next instalment. I hope Amphlett continues to write about her beleaguered Detective Hunter for some time to come as they’re the sort of books a reader can lose themselves in for hours on end. The shocking first chapter had me hooked and I was intrigued as to who the mysterious, murderous driver of the car was. I then realised that the culprit was already in custody meaning a large percentage of the investigation was pretty much wrapped up, so I started to wonder where the author would take the rest of the story. And that’s where things started to take a much slower pace for me. I love this series and I will always recommend it to crime fans, but I was wanting something more to happen. Which is probably one of the strangest things I have ever said as there is so much going on in Hell To Pay, all manner of evil and deviant deeds being carried out. But weirdly, this time around, it just wasn’t enough to satisfy me as a reader.
The author has successfully managed to introduce her cast of characters to any new readers picking up Hell To Pay as their first Detective Hunter read. I was thrilled to see the return of Adam, Kay’s rather gorgeous other-half, return to the pages but was disappointed when he headed north of the border for a conference, for the majority of the book. Adam is such an essential part of Kay’s life and he keeps her grounded. He was missed.
Would I recommend this book? I would recommend this series 100%! The book ends with an explosive and shocking cliffhanger, and I cannot wait to see how the situation plays out in book five. It’s not my favourite in the series and this time around I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had hoped, but that’s just me. There are MANY other readers out there who had a very different reading experience to mine. I’m just an old grump!
Three and a half stars out of five (rounded up to four stars)
I chose to read and review an eARC of Hell To Pay. The above review is my own unbiased opinion. My thanks to Emma and the author for asking me to be on the blog tour.
November 20, 2017
Hell To Pay by Rachel Amphlett is the fourth in series centred around Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter and its a Belter. With every book in the series more proficient than the last trying to keep up is a challenge in itself, but do you know what Rachel I’m up for your challenge, bring on book 5.
Hell To Pay opens with DS Kay being dragged out of bed in the middle of the night for what seems to be a run of the mill traffic accident, but an abhorrent scene awaits them, is all as it seems, or have they missed a vital piece and a serial killer roams free. Kay must use all the resources available to her to apprehend the persons responsible, the investigation draws little evidence or suspects and Kay draws herself deeper into danger.
The killer is clever, will they make a mistake, time will tell……�. Time is running out.
Oh how I love Kay as a character, she is different to other detectives I’ve read about lately, I seemed to have read non stop about unhinged, obnoxious Detectives, Kay is a breath of fresh air. Kay is dedicated to her job, her team and her relationship with Adam, she has a steadfast inner strength which seems infallible, a bender of rules but with a loyalty to her team, but Kay also shows she has a softer side which comes to the fore when in the company of her boyfriend Adam. I could quite happily sit in Kays company, be a friend, but only if Rachel allowed it.
Hell To Pay has driven me round the bend, the deception, the intricate webs, I tangled myself up in trying to decipher the clues. Rachel managed to distract me away from the true killer with the sheer amount of plausible red herrings. I always endeavour to be the one who catches the killer before the detective but if I’m honest that doesn’t happen very often, and true to form I certainly didn’t break my duck with Hell To Pay.
If you want the thrill of your life, short explosive chapters, an intoxicating and electrifying read from the first word written to the last full stop, Hell To Pay will take you there.Ìý There is so many things I could say about Hell To Pay, but I want you taste the words, absorb the plot, breath in the brink as you dangle over the edge, until Rachel snatches you back at the last moment in anticipation for Book 5.
Just a wee reminder of the all the books in Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter series, go on grab yourself the series and read, read, Read.
1.ÌýScared To Death
2.ÌýWill To Live
3.ÌýOne To Watch
4. Hell To Pay
Thank you to Emma Mitchell for the invitation to join the Blog tour for Hell To Pay by Rachel Amphlett, it has been a pleasure to be involved in the tour. I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Hell To Pay opens with DS Kay being dragged out of bed in the middle of the night for what seems to be a run of the mill traffic accident, but an abhorrent scene awaits them, is all as it seems, or have they missed a vital piece and a serial killer roams free. Kay must use all the resources available to her to apprehend the persons responsible, the investigation draws little evidence or suspects and Kay draws herself deeper into danger.
The killer is clever, will they make a mistake, time will tell……�. Time is running out.
Oh how I love Kay as a character, she is different to other detectives I’ve read about lately, I seemed to have read non stop about unhinged, obnoxious Detectives, Kay is a breath of fresh air. Kay is dedicated to her job, her team and her relationship with Adam, she has a steadfast inner strength which seems infallible, a bender of rules but with a loyalty to her team, but Kay also shows she has a softer side which comes to the fore when in the company of her boyfriend Adam. I could quite happily sit in Kays company, be a friend, but only if Rachel allowed it.
Hell To Pay has driven me round the bend, the deception, the intricate webs, I tangled myself up in trying to decipher the clues. Rachel managed to distract me away from the true killer with the sheer amount of plausible red herrings. I always endeavour to be the one who catches the killer before the detective but if I’m honest that doesn’t happen very often, and true to form I certainly didn’t break my duck with Hell To Pay.
If you want the thrill of your life, short explosive chapters, an intoxicating and electrifying read from the first word written to the last full stop, Hell To Pay will take you there.Ìý There is so many things I could say about Hell To Pay, but I want you taste the words, absorb the plot, breath in the brink as you dangle over the edge, until Rachel snatches you back at the last moment in anticipation for Book 5.
Just a wee reminder of the all the books in Detective Sergeant Kay Hunter series, go on grab yourself the series and read, read, Read.
1.ÌýScared To Death
2.ÌýWill To Live
3.ÌýOne To Watch
4. Hell To Pay
Thank you to Emma Mitchell for the invitation to join the Blog tour for Hell To Pay by Rachel Amphlett, it has been a pleasure to be involved in the tour. I received an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
April 28, 2018
Rachel Amphlett does it again in book 4 of the series, Hell to Pay. Crafting a sinister plot that Detective Kay Hunter will find all to personal. This series has become on of my favorites of the year in crime fiction. And for good reason--They're awesome! Kay comes across an old adversary when she come across a traffic accident with links to a ruthless serial killer. Brewing at the same time is a mysterious drama related to Kay. Another great one!
November 16, 2017
Hell To Pay is the fourth in the Detective Kay Hunter series by Rachel Amphlett; as with the other books (Scared To Death, Will To Live and One to Watch) it could be read as a standalone but you should definitely read the whole series because they are awesome! Kay Hunter is one of my favourite characters in a series and each book has teased a little more about her past troubles, false accusations of misconduct and the tragic consequences of the stress she was placed under.
In Hell To Pay, Kay is on the trail of a serial killer who is exploiting vulnerable women. The investigation leads her to the man who wants her silenced and who has been behind the plot to destroy her career. I was gripped from the start and raced through the pages as Kay got closer to cracking the case and hopefully delivering justice to those that had wronged her. Kay’s nemesis exudes arrogance and is totally loathsome; my nerves were shredded for the last chapter.
The light relief in the book comes from Kay and Adam’s house guests Bonnie and Clyde, I always look forward to seeing what kind of patient Adam has brought home from work and this time it’s guinea pigs!
This book is a fast paced thriller and I guarantee once you’ve picked it up you’ll struggle to get anything else done until you finish it. Five stars from me and bring on book five!!
In Hell To Pay, Kay is on the trail of a serial killer who is exploiting vulnerable women. The investigation leads her to the man who wants her silenced and who has been behind the plot to destroy her career. I was gripped from the start and raced through the pages as Kay got closer to cracking the case and hopefully delivering justice to those that had wronged her. Kay’s nemesis exudes arrogance and is totally loathsome; my nerves were shredded for the last chapter.
The light relief in the book comes from Kay and Adam’s house guests Bonnie and Clyde, I always look forward to seeing what kind of patient Adam has brought home from work and this time it’s guinea pigs!
This book is a fast paced thriller and I guarantee once you’ve picked it up you’ll struggle to get anything else done until you finish it. Five stars from me and bring on book five!!
April 5, 2024
3 stars
This book is more focused on DI Kay Hunter past and tying some loose ends with a few people that did her harm in the past. There are too many things repeated over and over and the whole story is a bit flat. Not my favourite in this series so I am looking forward to the next one.
This book is more focused on DI Kay Hunter past and tying some loose ends with a few people that did her harm in the past. There are too many things repeated over and over and the whole story is a bit flat. Not my favourite in this series so I am looking forward to the next one.
November 29, 2017
Another cracking Kay Hunter tale. I forced myself to only read a small number of chapters a day so that I could savour the book over a week or so. Looking forward to the next instalment.
June 11, 2018
Wow, this series just gets better and better, if that's at all possible! I've found myself totally gripped with Hell To Pay, grabbing every chance I've had to read it, even if it's only been a couple of chapters at a time. I have to say though, telling myself 'just one more chapter' happened quite regularly whilst reading this book so I've read it quite quickly (for me!). I love Rachel Amphlett's writing style. Her books are so easy to immerse yourself in. If you haven't read this series as yet, then I highly recommend that you do.
In Hell To Pay Detective Kay Hunter and her team are called to a road traffic accident. They aren't quite sure why at first until they realise there is a dead body in the boot of the car. The body of a young woman. What they eventually unearth as they investigate this unusual case is nothing short of horrific! Kay's determination to see this particularly nasty criminal brought to justice puts her in serious danger as he becomes as obsessed with her as she is with him. A storyline which had me holding my breath and my heart racing!
Absolutely brilliantly written. I loved it! It's fast-paced, with short chapter's which add to the tension and pace of the story making you NEED to read on. Characterisation is excellent. I feel like I'm getting to know the main character's quite well now and it almost feels like catching up with old friends when I start the next book in the series. They are real and believable and I find myself really caring about what happens to them. I've already started book five � Call To Arms.
Many thanks to Rachel Amphlett for my review copy of Hell To Pay. I highly recommend!
In Hell To Pay Detective Kay Hunter and her team are called to a road traffic accident. They aren't quite sure why at first until they realise there is a dead body in the boot of the car. The body of a young woman. What they eventually unearth as they investigate this unusual case is nothing short of horrific! Kay's determination to see this particularly nasty criminal brought to justice puts her in serious danger as he becomes as obsessed with her as she is with him. A storyline which had me holding my breath and my heart racing!
Absolutely brilliantly written. I loved it! It's fast-paced, with short chapter's which add to the tension and pace of the story making you NEED to read on. Characterisation is excellent. I feel like I'm getting to know the main character's quite well now and it almost feels like catching up with old friends when I start the next book in the series. They are real and believable and I find myself really caring about what happens to them. I've already started book five � Call To Arms.
Many thanks to Rachel Amphlett for my review copy of Hell To Pay. I highly recommend!
June 12, 2021
Hell to Pay is the fourth book featuring detective Kay Hunter and her team. This time around, she is called to a traffic accident that ends up being much more involved than the police initially thought. After finishing this fourth book, I can definitely say this has quickly become one of my all time favorite detective series.
There are a lot of secrets revealed in this one. We get answers to who is behind the sabotage of Kay's career. I was definitely surprised. It was a solid resolution and can't wait to read about the aftermath in the next book. As for the mystery, I'll just say that this ties to another case from earlier in the series and leave it at that. The details end up being very disturbing and gut wrenching. Adam is still a marshmallow and I love his support of Kay. The "animal" of the week was too cute! I would not say that this one is good as a stand alone. It spoils a lot for the first three in the series, so start at the beginning. I highly recommend you do!
June 12, 2018
This book just added so many more layers to all the characters. It showed a different side to most if not all of the side characters as well as the main character. It showed that the police officers had all built their own little family within their station. I liked how Sharp joined their little outing as well, it showed he cared and that rank isn’t everything. He still one of the guys.
The previous three books all built up to this and I didn’t expect half the stuff that happened. Even from reading the fifth book first in the series, I was caught unawares with a few things. The Author also went a bit darker with this book just to show how purely evil the bad guys were in this story.
You didn’t see a lot of Adam in this one due to going away but I am so glad the Author added phone calls between them, it showed a great side to their whole relationship.
The previous three books all built up to this and I didn’t expect half the stuff that happened. Even from reading the fifth book first in the series, I was caught unawares with a few things. The Author also went a bit darker with this book just to show how purely evil the bad guys were in this story.
You didn’t see a lot of Adam in this one due to going away but I am so glad the Author added phone calls between them, it showed a great side to their whole relationship.
February 5, 2022
3.8 stars
I felt like Kay in this book is more naive than the previous book but it has been a while since I last read Kay Hunter book 3. Anyway, Kay finally succeed her 2 years hunter down her nemesis. The plot is so so for me but I like the can of worms she accidentally open at the end�.sure to be pretty messy.
I felt like Kay in this book is more naive than the previous book but it has been a while since I last read Kay Hunter book 3. Anyway, Kay finally succeed her 2 years hunter down her nemesis. The plot is so so for me but I like the can of worms she accidentally open at the end�.sure to be pretty messy.
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