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The Promise cover art

The Promise

By: Alison Bruce
Narrated by: Jonathan Broadbent
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Summary

In a single night, Kyle Davidson's life is derailed. His relationship is over, he is denied access to his young son and everything important to him is at risk. His thoughts stumble between fear and revenge. Kyle Davidson has a choice to make.

Meanwhile, after the tragic end to a previous case, DC Gary Goodhew finds himself questioning his reasons for returning to work until the badly beaten body of a homeless man is found on Market Hill. Having known the homeless man for several years, Goodhew feels compelled to be part of the investigation - but routine lines of enquiry soon take a dark and unexpected turn.

Suddenly the Cambridge backstreets hold deadly secrets for Goodhew, and the only person who has the answers is planning one final, desperate act.

©2016 Alison Bruce (P)2016 Audible, Ltd

What listeners say about The Promise

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Incredibly boring

I cannot believe all the glowing reviews for this book, however I have just skimmed through the reviews again to find out if I was missing something - only to see that the majority of the reviews are 'written in exchange for being given a free copy of the book'. However unbiased one tries to be - if the book is a gift there is bound to be a gentle attitude towards it. (Reviews on Amazon)

I am really struggling to latch onto this book, the characters are hardly worth getting to know - certainly not particularly likeable, the story is stodgy and very very boringly written. I can hardly be bothered to waste any more time on it, I am now on chapter 14 so have to weigh up the time lost against any possible gain should it become interesting. I will give it a little longer. ...... I decided after drafting this review to skip on towards the end just to find out who and why. It wasn't worth it!

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5 people found this helpful

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Another excellent book by Alison Bruce

I have to say I'm a great fan of Alison Bruce's books. Helped enormously by knowing Cambridge. I can't wait for the next instalment. Lovely complicated personalities and great story line. Thank you.

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2 people found this helpful

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Among the best UK crime writers

Would you listen to The Promise again? Why?

Although I have a long memory, there are certain books in some genres that I am drawn to re-read. I enjoy reading of the evolution of characters and how in the UK, the police are faring with PC, hi-tech, unbelievably bad promotions (which happen less frequently in fiction than real life) and the way the political system has colluded with and betrayed the forces. The author has racked up a good solid performance with this work, brilliantly read, making want more. I particularly like the way Cambridge and the university are depicted in the ancient tension between "Town and Gown." I seem to prefer police outside London and perhaps good writing is a reason.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Promise?

Gary Goodhew, still a DC, has been in a dark place and is haunted not just by the past but family problems and nearly burned alive. Specifically, he shows all the behaviours and sensitivities of a PTSD victim. The point when he turns the corner and realises he can still function was one of the most memorable in the series.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

Not a scene as much as the atmosphere of returning to work, hag-ridded by self doubt. At least Gary has a cat!

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

More than in the other book in this series, it stirred my emotions and a certain amount of identification with people who work in closed establishments; find personal friendships difficult especially when there is an area of competitiveness and professionalism being strangled by bureaucracy and funding difficulties. it is extremely difficult to write about PTSD unless you have been there and this makes PC Goodhew a character with even more depth. It's about time he did something with women in his life as a "quickie" now and then would lead him to realise that although the job is important and perhaps the only thing, you have to find some escape and not necessarily with your grandmother.

Any additional comments?

In one of the earlier books, the narrator was not given much credit. I think he does a wonderful job and through him Cambridgeshire is enriched. Readers who come from a non-UK background may struggle with regional crime novels but it's well worth persisting, especially in this case.

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2 people found this helpful

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can't wait!

Believable but omplex characters, gripping plots! Excellent knowledge of Cambridge. I getting very fond of Goodhew.

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Very good

I listen to these because I know Cambridge - but this one gripped. Well-plotted and an interesting context.

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An unusual perspective

The characters stories flowed from one to the other, without missing a beat. There was no fracture between these stories, they were seamless. The characters were believable, and necessary to the plot. Brilliantly performed..

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Goodhue Grows Up

I enjoyed the way the author grows Gary Goodhue up into a more rounded human being prepared to work with others yet still sustain his individuality. She reveals characters, both their flaws and good points quickly and with more clarity than the previous works in this series. I want to read more.

Broadbent has a super voice and reads with great tonality giving the work excitement and makes it an easy listen.

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fantastic

really enjoying this series of books.
great characters and story lines well read by Jonathan broadbent

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Enjoyable

I have read all the books in this series so far I do hope there will be more and put onto Audible. The mysteries are excellent and the narrator is brilliant too.

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Can't wait to hear Cambridge black!

Sad each time the next book in the series ends... checked which book follows and keep checking to see when it may be available!

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