Hard Girls

by Martina Cole
Hard Girls cover
Good Books rating 3.0
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 9315
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780755371549
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-10-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Hard Girls is the third installment in the DI Kate Burrows series by Martina Cole, the 'undisputed queen of crime writing' (Guardian). This gripping novel sees retired DCI Kate Burrows drawn back into the world of crime when a new serial killer emerges in Grantley. The case bears striking similarities to the infamous Grantley Ripper, but this time the victims are prostitutes. Kate, known for her expertise, is the only one who can catch the killer and bring justice to those who often go unprotected. The DI Kate Burrows series is known for its dangerously gripping narratives, and Hard Girls is no exception. Before diving into this thrilling installment, be sure to catch the first two books, Ladykiller and Broken, to fully appreciate Kate's journey and expertise./n/nMartina Cole's Hard Girls is a compelling addition to the crime genre, offering a deep dive into the mind of a seasoned detective. Kate Burrows' return to the force highlights her unparalleled skills and dedication to justice. The novel explores themes of protection and justice for those often overlooked by society, making it a poignant and thrilling read. With its intricate plot and well-developed characters, Hard Girls is a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-12-23
excellent 4.50

The book is well-written and engaging, with Martina Cole showcasing her understanding of life led by others. It is considered one of the best modern thrillers.

This reviewer praised the book for its excellent writing and engaging storyline. They highlighted Martina Cole's ability to portray the complexities of life, making the book stand out as one of the best modern thrillers. The reviewer found the book to be gripping and well-crafted, with a compelling narrative that kept them hooked. The book's portrayal of characters and their experiences was particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    Excellent book and well written.

    One of the best modern writers of our time.

    Martina Cole has an understanding of life led by others.

Jim Holroyd Blog · Jim Holroyd · 2020-04-25
disappointing 2.00

The book is overly long with 143 chapters, which detracts from its potential as a page-turner. The pacing issues make it less engaging than typical crime fiction.

Jim Holroyd found the book to be disappointing due to its excessive length, with 143 chapters that slowed down the narrative. He was looking for a gripping, fast-paced crime thriller, but the book's pacing issues made it less enjoyable. The story had potential, but the execution fell short of expectations. Despite the intriguing premise, the book's structure made it feel drawn out and less compelling.

Quick quotes

    This was a little disappointing, I think it was overly long (143 chapters!).

    When I read crime fiction, I am looking for a page-turner, that is what I want.

    The story had potential, but the execution fell short of expectations.

Best Crime Books and More · 2009-11-11
disappointing 2.50

The book lacks great drama and surprises, with the killer being obvious early on. The storyline felt repetitive and could have been improved with more focus.

This reviewer found the book to be lacking in dramatic moments and surprises, with the identity of the killer being quite obvious from the beginning. They felt that the storyline was repetitive and could have been more engaging with better pacing and more focused narrative elements. While the book had some interesting aspects, the execution fell short of expectations, making it less compelling overall.

Quick quotes

    There were no great drama's or surprises in store and the killer is pretty obvious quite early on in the book.

    I also found that the storyline got kind of repetitive.

    If Cole had reduced this it would have made a much better book.

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