17 November 2023

This is a new-to-me author and was not sure what to expect when reaching for this title. It turned out to be a thrilling reading experience that left me reading late into the night while racing to the end.

When you reach for this title, you can expect a gripping journey through the chilling world of crime and suspense. The storytelling and intricate plot weave a tale that is both thrilling and emotionally charges, making this crime novel a must-read for fans of the genre.

The story follows DS Jack Townsen, a police officer recently promoted after three years undercover with one of the UK’s most dangerous gangs. Seeking a fresh start for himself, his wife and young daughter, Jack relocates to a tranquil village in Buckinghamshire. The promise of reconnection and a chance to join the Thames Valley Police’s Specialist Crime Unit lures (SCU) him into a seemingly idyllic life. However, the tranquillity is shattered when the SCU, headed by Isabella King, is thrust into action with the discovery of a brutally stabbed woman in the woods of Wycombe Rye.

The author constructs a story that is not only a whodunit but also a psychological exploration of the characters involved. DS Jack Townsend’s journey from the treacherous undercover world to the seemingly serene village life adds layers of complexity to his character. The challenges faced by the newly formed SCU, including a depleted budget and a town shaken to its core, create a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.

The author adeptly builds suspense as the body count rises and a sense of urgency invades the investigation. The clock ticking, the team must navigate the intricacies of their new surroundings, racing against time to stop a killer whose actions spiral out of control. The author’s vivid descriptions bring the quiet town and its inhabitants to life, immersing you in a world where danger lurks behind every seemingly peaceful façade.

The books core message, that every victim deserves justice, resonates throughout the story. The author explores the moral and emotional toll of crime on both the investigators and the community, adding a layer of depth to the plot. The interactions and dynamics among the members of the SCU and the CID create a compelling group, each contributing to the overall impact of the story.

“The Dead of Night” is a wonderfully crafted crime novel that seamlessly blends suspense, emotion and psychological depth. The authors ability to build tension and create relatable characters makes this book a page-turner from beginning to end. If you are a crime fiction fan, the “The Dead of Night” is a title to add to your TBR. This book delivers on the promise of a thrilling reading experience.