Perfection

John Nicholl is one of the very few authors that I both read and listen to, not in whispersync, but at entirely different times. His work is so well constructed, so carefully thought out that it warrants two bites of the cherry. Jake Urry's narration style is such that if he read out the phone book you'd be both fascinated and terrified. The 'mash-up' of Mr Nicholl's words and Mr Urry's narration results in complete perfection. Audio books don't come better than this. If A Mind to Kill was a lager, I'd go as far as to say it would probably be the best lager in the world. The sub text of A Mind to Kill is totally mind blowing; we have law but do we have justice? Would anyone say that Rebecca was totally in her right mind when she committed the murders? Does it not seem, by her behaviour and her speech, that she is deeply disturbed as a result of Sheridan's abuse? The book is a very telling indictment of the way in which children, who are brave enough to name their abusers, get treated by the courts and defence barristers. Mr Nicholl cleverly stops the book from being too bleak with the addition of DI Gareth Gravel, or Grav, as he prefers to be known. Grav's misogyny and total disregard for authority provide some welcome humour, making the balance of tone absolutely perfect. Anyone who cares what happens to the victims of child abuse should read this book. I feel proud and privileged to recommend this outstanding audio book to everyone.

16 people found this helpful

A pleasurable experience

I cannot find fault with this. As dark, bloody and satisfying as every other book. It just ticks every box for me. The torture scenes are gruesome. I couldnt help but laugh at her endless dilema of what to do with the bodies. I was SO thrilled with this book that I dont know what on earth to listen to next. Not for the faint hearted. But what a fabulous heroine. Also, does Jake Urry do personal narrations? He could narrate my shopping list and Id be spellbound. What a great, dark combo of voice and story. Thank you both.

13 people found this helpful

brilliant, disturbing and terrifying!

What other book might you compare A Mind to Kill to, and why?

the other John Nicholl book I've read, White is the coldest colour

Any additional comments?

This is the second John Nicholl book I’ve read and, if anything, I found it even more gripping than the first.

The story centres around a young woman, Rebecca who, after her childhood abuser evaded justice sets out to revenge herself on any man who preys on children.

As the above suggests, this book tackles some difficult subjects and at times, I found it hard to listen to, although it has to be said the author handles his subject matter with sensitivity and, having read his previous book I knew what to expect.


I absolutely loved this book, the characterisation is strong—I particularly enjoyed the character of ‘Grav’ the old-school police officer who brings some light relief to the story. You find yourself feeling so sorry and angry for Rebecca, the abuse she suffered as a child and the lack of justice so clearly shaped her later actions and the author draws her character so vividly you feel like you are in the room with her and her ‘victims’.

Jake Urry’s narration was utterly mesmerising, and lifted this book which was already a great one on to a whole new level. It’s the first of his readings I’ve listened to but won’t be the last!

10 people found this helpful

Another great read form John Nicoll

This was a fascinating storyline. The killer was a little mad to begin with, but it was fascinating watching her become more unhinged as the story went along. All of the characters developed well. My favourite was the Detective Sargent who took time to just listen and empathise with ordinary people in the street and this was how she got the first breakthrough of the case. The grumpy Detective Inspector was a big teddy bear when it mattered and a good working relationship could develop between them. The Narrator was, as . usual, excellent with his mesmerising voice and range of accents. There were some gory scenes, so beware if you like cozy! This isn't cozy, it's dark, but so enjoyable! Another cracker Mr Nicoll.

10 people found this helpful

Another Gripping Thriller from John Nicholl

Every time I hear that this author is releasing another book I am delighted, particularly when I know it is going to be narrated by Jake Urry. This latest book certainly does not disappoint. It is a gripping listen; so much so that you won't be able to stop until the end. Although the story is dark and gruesome at times with lots of detail it was a very gripping read. Jake Urry brought the characters to life with his usual expertise. Another superb offering from John Nicholl.

9 people found this helpful

"Will you walk into my parlour?"

“Will you walk into my parlour?” said the Spider to the Fly,
'Tis the prettiest little parlour that ever you did spy;
The way into my parlour is up a winding stair,
And I've a many curious things to show when you are there.”

This poem - also quoted in the book - brilliantly sums up A mind to Kill. It's a fast paced, gruesome, disturbing and thought provoking novel about revenge and regret. If you liked John Nicholl's previous books, you won't be disappointed!
The narration by Jake Urry is once again spot on. It's definitely an audiobook worth listening to!

9 people found this helpful

A high tension winner packed with suspense.

What made the experience of listening to A Mind to Kill the most enjoyable?

Brilliantly written and brilliantly narrated. Don't miss this one. An absolute cracker!

Who was your favorite character and why?

DS Laura Kesey. She's a great contrast to the brash DI Gareth Gravel.

Have you listened to any of Jake Urry’s other performances? How does this one compare?

I've loved all of the audiobooks written by John Nicholl and narrated by Jake Urry. I think this one may be the best yet. Great stuff!

If you made a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

The hunters become the hunted...

Any additional comments?

This is one of the best dark psychological thrillers I've ever read or listened to.

9 people found this helpful

A mind of many torments

Really really enjoyed this well written story. the storyline introduced a new serial killer and made revenge a great motive. love Mr Urrys dulcet tones too.

7 people found this helpful

Brilliant. As good on audible as the book is.

Loved it. Not for the faint hearted. Another great book by John narrated by Jake.

4 people found this helpful

Thoroughly enjoyed this

Cleverly written! Certainly put you in the same room with the killer!
Really enjoyed the narration too and looking forward to more book by this author and narrator
Would definitely recommend

3 people found this helpful