‘After He’s Gone’ by Jane Isaac

Published June 2018.
ISBN: 978-1-91640620-9 (PB)

Cameron Swift is gunned down in his own drive early one Sunday morning by a man on a motorcycle.  The killer then took a photo of him on his mobile, which was later posted on social media.

DC Beth Chamberlain called to the shooting in the salubrious Western district of Northamptonshire, by her boss DI Tess Gleeson is appointed Family Liaison Officer. Initially Beth feels side-lined away from the action but comes to realise that being in a position close to the family puts her in the unique position to learn the background and possibly pick up clues that may lead to solving the murder.

Cameron’s wife Monica has a nine-month-old son Jakub. She also has a son Oscar from a previous relationship, whose father lives in Poland. The family had lived in Collingtree Park for the past three months.  As Beth talks with Monica it becomes clear that Monika knows nothing of Cameron’s work or work colleagues.  And she states that Cameron doesn’t have any family, except a brother who lives in Canada and that Cameron was not in contact with him.

The team under DCI Lee Freeman proceed to examine the life of Cameron Swift to discover his killer. Despite intensive investigation all they come up with is - Who was Camerson Swift?

It is sometimes difficult to write a review without giving too much away and this is one of those times.  As the story progresses new characters are introduced. Mainly posing even more questions.  One thing is it’s full of lots of surprises. With a heart-stopping climax.

The main narrator is Beth Chamberlain, I liked her. She is in a difficult position.  She has been supporting her sister Eden through the breakup of her relationship with a police officer. Eden has caused her more than a small amount of grief over the years.  And during this fraught time Beth uncovers some alarming information that puts her in a most untenable position.

After He’s Gone is first class mystery, with a very likeable protagonist.   There are many twists until the killer is found. If you like a good police procedural with well-fleshed out characters and a good plot, don’t miss this one. Recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett

Jane Isaac lives with her husband, daughter and dog, Bollo, in rural Northamptonshire, UK. Her debut novel, An Unfamiliar Murder, was nominated as best mystery in the 'eFestival of Words Best of the Independent eBook awards 2013.' The Truth Will Out was nominated as 'Thriller of the Month - April 2014' by E-thriller.com and winner of 'Noveltunity book club selection - May 2014'. Jane's latest title, Before It's Too Late, was published by Legend Press on the 1st of June 2015.
Jane loves to hear from readers and writers. Visit her website where you can email her through the contacts page or peruse her blog, 'Caffeine's Not a Crime'.

www.janeisaac.co.uk