The Phantom of Barker Mill: Blue Moon Investigations Book 2

Brilliant, addictive and fully deserving of five stars, at least..Steve Higgs is a consummate story teller, whose books are a pleasure on so many levels and are all of a consistently high quality read. Without risk of a spoiler, I can say simply that they are whodunits with a difference, set in the south-east of England in modern 21st century times; and each features a different theme and adversary. In pursuance of which, and improvising by the ‘seat of his pants’ as it were, the main hero (who is ex-armed forces) seems to have the unfortunately recurring occupational hazard of getting himself arrested by the police, questioned, warned, and then released, at some point during most of his investigations..I recommend these tales all equally, as it is hard to single-out an absolute favourite, because I thoroughly enjoyed them all..Their reliable intrigue, thrill, and suspense had me gripped and unable to put them down. Late nights and lack of sleep resulted. The recurring characters are endearingly believable, flawed and human, and very familiar (sometimes endearingly so) because I am sure we all have or had once known friends and acquaintances just like them, ‘warts and all’, including strengths, weaknesses, annoyances, and attitudes; sometimes demonstrated in outrageous banter. All have been familiar to me as very much like real people whom I have known, lost touch with over a lifetime, and now vividly recall. Thus it feels like a long lost and welcome reunion..The dialogue and interaction is interspersed and balanced with moments of irresistible humour, which perfectly compliments the adrenaline-filled moments. Although each novel draws from the same regular team of characters (investigators, their researchers and advisors, and back-up muscle), and are sequentially written, nevertheless each novel is stand-alone and can be just as enjoyable if read out of order.

steve higgs has a way of drawing you into his stories. he writes his characters without being artyfarty they become more and more real. the favourite for me, are the dachshunds xxx

The second book written by Stigg's and just as enjoyable - if not better. Aside from trying to pre-guess the un-paranormal elements, look forward to laughing about what blokes really talk about in the pub and be prepared to empathise with Tempest in his struggle to understand the female psyche.I have a feeling that Tempest Michaels will outgrow the towns and villages in and around Maidstone and one day, I'd really like to watch him on the Silver screen (and admittedly, I am curious to discover which actress could possible play Amanda!)These stories around Blue Moon (not to be confused with the very nice US beer served with a slice of orange) Investigations is a niche exploration into paranormal areas rarely covered by mainstream authors - the paranormal paradox . Stigg's has delivered an enchanting, believable tale with colourful characters coupled with just the right amount of sarcasm and humour - it may offend the odd snowflake!

Love this guy's style of writing. Down to earth, no fancy words, and characters you can actually imaging. On book five in series just now.

OK quirky detective novel

What I liked was unique pi dea. The dogs sounded loveable. Some comedy value made me chuckle out loud - more humor!Tempest sounded rather weak in places, given his background this didn't make sense. Character came across sexually deprived ( don't think Mr Wriggle was necessary) dull, predictable & little respect for clients & thier intelligence.I hoped to see Tempest as a character develop so I bought book 2 & 3. Don't think will bother with book 3 though.I'd read book 1 & found some errors. Given it was the authors 1st book & no proof reader, I over looked the mistakes. I had hoped to find a new author for myself, however this was not the case for me. Shame

Steve Higgs has a wonderful fun way with words that immediately presents a vivid picture in your brain..be it his Mother craftily sneaking in a bottle of Gin into her daughters baby shower, Fluffy and Susan the enormous but actually quite harmless guard dogs in the junkyard (described as dogasaurus ) or his infatuation with Mr Wriggly in his pants whenever things get amorous.A highly enjoyable read…I’m buying more of them!

As usual Steve Higgs delivers a fast paced and intriguing story. The twist at the end was unexpected and Tempest’s love life unfortunately divebombed!

I inadvertently purchased two, …..duh!!! I like this character. I like the series. I also liked his other series the Albert Smith Culinary capers. I like the dogs heads to the books., …just need him to write one with a beagle, or better yet three beagles…..Queenie, Milo and Buddy. Yes, those are the names of my beagles. This book is a fun read and you have to pace yourself or you’ll be done in a heartbeat. Very entertaining, and good who who done it kind of read.

Tempest is a paranormal investigator unlike most. His stories are interesting and exciting with a twist. Read them, I think you’ll like them.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this great story, Steve Higgs entices you in with a variety of interesting characters and extraordinary and fascinating occurrences to be solved by the fabulous Tempest. Looking forward to reading the next book, I’ve grown quite attached to Tempest and his escapades, Mr Wiggly makes me laugh too! Plus I’m in love with Bull & Dozer 🥰

A little rambling this time and has spread the cases a bit too thin this time solving too many cases in one book. Still a good teas though.

Bull and Dozer made me laugh every time I read about them. Good fun reading.