05 June 2025

What a compelling and heartwarming start to a promising new crime series! The Lady in the Park introduces readers to Jim Domino, a retired detective turned private investigator, in a story that perfectly blends gritty crime with emotional depth and a touch of charm.

David Reynolds crafts a mystery that hooks you from the very first scene—a woman found unconscious on a ping-pong table in a local park is certainly an unconventional start, but it sets the tone for a story that’s anything but ordinary. As Jim Domino begins to dig deeper, what initially seems like a case of mistaken identity quickly spirals into something far darker. Reynolds doesn’t shy away from serious themes like people trafficking and drug crime, but what makes this book stand out is how he balances those elements with warmth, humanity, and hope.

Jim is a thoroughly likeable protagonist—smart, determined, and still sharp despite being “retired.” His relationship with his cheeky six-year-old grandson, Danny, is one of the book’s greatest joys. Their bond is not only endearing but surprisingly effective in the investigation; Danny’s innocent observations often offer Domino exactly the insight he needs. It’s a refreshing twist in the genre, adding layers of humour and heart to the suspense.

The plot is twisty without being complex, and Reynolds does a great job weaving together threads that span from suburban London to the shadows of the Thames Valley. The pacing is spot-on, with enough tension to keep you flipping pages while giving the characters plenty of room to breathe and grow.

The Lady in the Park is more than just a crime novel—it’s a story about community, redemption, and how even in the darkest situations, the light can come from the most unexpected places. I’m already eager to see where Jim Domino and young Danny head next. If you love character-driven mysteries with a lot of heart and a solid dose of suspense, this one is not to be missed.