Customer Reviews

2 reviews

• Alison Taylor-Baillie

  The Flower Presser is a fast-paced police procedural set in Berlin by debut writer AJ Warren. The discovery of a mutilated body in the River Spree, soon identified as the work of a twisted serial killer, starts a thrilling chase to find the killer before there is another victim. Judith Hellwig and Warren Fischer, the police in charge of the puzzling case, uncover clues revealing dark secrets beneath the respectable façade of Berlin society before they eventually solve the mystery.
  
  The book is a compelling read. From the first chapter I was hooked and the plot raced along, with clues leading to the identification of the victims and the gruesome motive behind the killings following thick and fast.
  
  The vivid descriptions of Berlin make the story even more effective. The writer lived there for many years and his deep knowledge of the city infuses every scene. He expertly conveys the flavour of Berlin, not only the names of streets, rivers and buildings, but the atmosphere, the colours, the smells, the sunsets. The descriptions are beautifully written and I really felt I was walking the streets with the characters.
  
  Another element that adds to the enjoyment of reading this book is the characterisation of Judith and Warren. They are fascinating characters and the interaction of these two very different personalities is one of the strengths of the novel. I would like to read a series of books featuring them.
  
  A most enjoyable read that left me wanting to read more by this writer

• Adam Carlton

  This is the first encounter we have with Warren and Judith, who already seem to have a deep connection. As a reader we join them around the time they realise they're dealing with a serial killer. It's clear they've known each other for a long time and, although this is our first introduction to them, the book is lettered with references of past experiences. This provides a lot of scope for any future stories - either in the characters past or their future.
  But let's stick with this book.
  Berlin is the setting and each location provides a sense of reality as AJ Warren combines fiction with fact. Clearly plenty of research went into writing this and the descriptions of torture are varied and epic. The story weaves around the characters personal tragedies and graphic mutilations. Both help the reader identify with the feelings and emotions of those in the story.
  
  AJ Warren's first published story combines a little of Lee Child's descriptive setting and Karen Slaughter's flare for the macabre. Well worth a read and AJ Warren's problem now is to create the backstories to do Warren, Judith, Astrid and Doc justice

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