Murder, Memories and Stirling Secrets. A Deep Dive Into Val Penny's A Fighting Chance.

Book Review: A Fighting Chance by Val Penny

Blurb

When DI Jane Renwick’s mother dies, Jane returns home to Stirling after years of estrangement. What should have been a time for reflection quickly turns dark when a man from her past is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As the investigation unfolds, old wounds are reopened, and family secrets long buried begin to surface. Jane must confront her own demons while trying to solve a case that hits far too close to home. With her personal and professional lives colliding, Jane faces the ultimate test of loyalty, courage and conscience. Can she uncover the truth before her past destroys everything she’s built?

My Review

Every now and then, a crime novel comes along that pulls you right into the heart of the story, and A Fighting Chance by Val Penny did exactly that for me. Set in Scotland, this gripping thriller has everything I love in a good read: strong characters, believable dialogue, a pace that never drags, and just the right amount of grit. DS Jane Renwick is such a fantastic lead. She’s clever, determined and not afraid to make mistakes. What makes her stand out for me is her humanity. She isn’t written as a perfect hero, and that’s what makes her so real. You feel her frustration, her courage, and the quiet moments of vulnerability that remind you she’s a person first and a detective second. The story moves quickly, with tension building in every chapter. There’s family drama, secrets, danger and just enough humour to balance the darker moments. It’s one of those books that makes you promise yourself you’ll only read one more chapter, and suddenly it’s far too late at night.Val Penny captures the feel of Scotland beautifully, from the streets of Stirling to the sharp, damp air that seeps through the pages. Her writing is confident and full of heart. She gives equal attention to her villains and her heroes, showing that even in a world of crime and corruption, people are complex and choices are rarely simple. I came away from this book feeling completely satisfied but also wanting more of Jane Renwick. Val Penny has created a series that crime fiction lovers should definitely keep an eye on.

My Verdict: A clever, character-driven story full of tension, atmosphere and heart. A must-read for anyone who loves Scottish crime fiction done right.

About the Author

Val Penny is the author of The Edinburgh Crime Mysteries and The Jane Renwick Thrillers. Originally from the USA, she now lives in Scotland and draws on its landscapes, history and people for inspiration. Her books are known for their compelling plots, believable characters and strong sense of place. When she’s not writing, Val enjoys reading, travelling, and sharing her love of storytelling with readers around the world.

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