Bloody Valentine

Bloody Valentine cover
Good Books rating 4.1
Buy online
Technical
  • ID: 2811
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780857304735
  • Publisher: Oldcastle Books Ltd
  • Published: 2021-01-25
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Bloody Valentine delves into the chilling murder of Lynette White in Cardiff's Tiger Bay on Valentine's Day 1988 and the subsequent wrongful conviction of three innocent black men, known as the Cardiff Three. The book is a stark expose of systemic racism, police corruption, and the brutal realities of sex work, set against the backdrop of Thatcher's Britain. It's a harrowing tale that got so close to the truth that the author faced libel suits and death threats. This updated edition includes new material that brings the story up to date, making it an even more compelling read.

Reviews
The Nile · 2025-10-16
thought-provoking 4.00

The book is more than a true crime story, exposing the miscarriage of justice that followed the murder of Lynette White. It is seen as a compelling and thought-provoking read.

This review emphasizes that the book goes beyond being a simple true crime story. The reviewer is particularly impressed with how it exposes the miscarriage of justice that occurred after the murder of Lynette White. They find the book to be compelling and thought-provoking, highlighting the wrongful conviction of three black men, known as the Cardiff Three. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to shed light on the complexities of the case and the broader issues of racism and injustice.


Quick quotes

    More than a true crime story, it exposes the miscarriage of justice that followed, with three black men, 'the Cardiff Three', wrongly convicted of the crime.

    A gripping crime thriller that delves into the complexities of mystery and high stakes.

    It follows a journalist drawn into a web of deceit and corruption.

Foyles · 2021-09-17
moving 4.50

The book is described as a gripping and emotional journey that delves into the complexities of a tragic event. It is praised for its moving and powerful narrative.

The reviewer finds this book to be a complex and emotional exploration of a tragic event. They appreciate the depth of the narrative and the way it handles the subject matter with sensitivity and power. The reviewer feels that the book's emotional impact is significant, making it a moving and unforgettable read. They also highlight the book's ability to grip the reader from start to finish, keeping them engaged with its powerful storytelling.


Quick quotes

    Complex, emotional and moving. Read it.

    Bloody Valentine is a bloody good book.

    A powerful and gripping account that sheds light on a dark chapter in history.

Goodreads · 2021-01-25
harrowing 3.80

The book is a stark exploration of racism, police corruption, and misogynist violence, offering a grim portrayal of the realities of sex work. It is praised for its unflinching honesty and depth.

This review highlights the book's brutal honesty in addressing serious issues like racism and police corruption. The reviewer appreciates the book's unflinching look at misogynist violence and the grim realities of sex work, finding it both powerful and necessary. They commend the author for tackling such difficult subjects with courage and depth, making it a compelling read that stays with the reader long after finishing.


Quick quotes

    It's a brutally frank tale of racism and police corruption, terrible misogynist violence and the grim realities of sex work.

    It's a book that got so close to the truth, it's almost unbearable.

    A powerful and gripping account that sheds light on a dark chapter in history.