Playing With Fire is the fifth book in the DC Jessica Daniel novels. The novels could not come at a better time, with TV shows like The Killing and Top of the Lake having female crime-busters, the story is definitely on trend.

DS Jessica Daniel is engaged and at the top of her field. She is a great character with many layers. Seven years ago Martin Chadwick set fire to a Manchester pub, not knowing a teenager was sleeping inside. Chadwick’s release from prison is imminent, with journalists gearing up for a good old-fashioned media lynching.

With the victim’s father telling the papers he is out for revenge, DS Jessica Daniel is left to keep an eye on Chadwick and his fiery eighteen-year-old son.

If that’s not enough to keep her occupied, a private investigator is doing a fine job sticking his oar in, it looks like there’s a schoolgirl suicide ring in operation, her car is working a little too well, and the endless rain continues to pound her northern home.

Jessica’s personal and professional life is in the balance – giving her barely enough time to focus on the person in her midst seemingly intent on burning everything to the ground.

Playing with Fire is an enjoyable crime drama book. Worth a read and, if you like it, there are plenty more books in the series to keep you entertained. Have a read if you like crime, drama or thrillers.