This was a solid police procedural which linked and solved two mysteries together, one which had happened nearly 2 decades ago. My first book by David Evans, the writing had a strange rhythmic quality which brought to life the way the cops worked.
Forensics and DNA played a major role, and it helped in solving and connecting a cold case. The entire book gave me a true life visual about how the police work. Strong, as the lead detective, worked ably with his team. In contrast, there was the journalist friend who worked his own angle in the story, and both seemed to meet in the middle.
Then came my niggles, I didn’t know these characters, they all had previous stories in other books. There were references in the entire book. There were too many characters, I was confused initially. Each day of the investigation was narrated in detail, but the scenes lacked the thrill and tension. At 30%, I knew where the story was going, hence the last reveal was good but not thrilling.
This book is strictly recommended for those who like a good police procedural with its nitty gritty details.
On to my next thriller, oh how I miss you, my precious!!
I received a digital copy of the book from the publisher, and this is my journey into its pages, straight from the heart.
All my reviews can be found here
Do you like straight up police procedural?
A botched attempt to extort money has tragic consequences.
An embarrassing DNA match to an unsolved rape and murder twenty years before means DI Colin Strong has to use his best diplomatic tactics.
Simultaneously, journalist Bob Souter is tasked with writing about that same case to re-focus public attention. Will the newspaper’s actions help or hinder the police?
Meanwhile, Strong’s team has two separate murder enquiries to run. With their friendship under duress, will Souter and Strong be able to work together?
Publication Date: 7th February 2019
Publisher: Orchard View Publications
24 Responses
Police procedurals can be so hit or miss for me. Hopefully your next thriller treats you better! ❤
I hope so too… I am reading cozy… All thrillers are sounding the same now 🙈😂
I love a good police procedural novel.
I like them occasionally if they are written well
I don’t like it when there are too many characters, but it sounds like if I started at the beginning of the series, then Tainted wouldn’t be so confusing. Forensics and police procedural? Not for everyone, but I do find that sort of thing fascinating and a good read.
I do like it too… But I would like it to be a little more interesting.
Oh! I enjoy reading books like this, Shalini! It’s really interesting plus it’s like you’re working with them too in solving the mystery because you’ll have your own suspects. Awesome review!
I like forensics as I am fascinated by it… Hope we can buddy read one such book Erica to see if we can solve the clues
That’s a great idea!
Too bad it didn’t hold up, love your review, balanced and fair – these are the hardest for me to write
Are you kidding me, my queen? You are the mistress of words.. There can never be such a day when words fail you… I see them standing in a line saying – choose me 😍😘
You make me giggle snort! 😉
😂😂
Good review. I’m sorry this one was somewhat disappointing.
Hello Linda, how are you? Others have liked it so it is just me… 😂
Hi, I’m good, but have had a lot going on. I’m behind with reading, blogging, and reading other’s reviews; I find it frustrating to not be able to keep up with everything.😱 I think I have too many blogging friends, like you, who are avid readers and prolific reviewers. 👍
Hahaha same here. I have been down with the flu hence absolutely swamped.. In all ways
I understand. It’s so easy to get behind. I hope you are feeling better.
Some days I am good, rest not so much ❤️ thank you
Police procedurals… sometimes they’re very informative, at least 🙂
Mehhh I knew about DNA… Nothing new.. We should read one such book together… And see who sleeps off first😂😂🤣🤣
Hahahaha. I can guarantee I would win that one!
Nice review Shalini. I have to be in the mood for a police procedural and I have to be able to connect to the characters to enjoy it. They are not for everyone. On you go to thrillers my dear.
Some police procedurals are fun… Some are not… This came in the latter