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DCI Craig Gillard #12
The Body in Nightingale Park
Another impossible case for DCI Gillard, but this time the answers are very close to home…
With a baby on the way, a pregnant wife to take care of and a new home to settle into, DCI Craig Gillard seems to have found a life of domestic bliss.
But when retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford is found stabbed to death in front of his own TV while watching Saturday afternoon football, Gillard’s peace is once again disturbed.
Only a day later, just a short walk from his new home, Gillard is himself witness to the killing of a jogger in Nightingale Park. A strange forensic connection emerges between the two killings, something that seems impossible. As he digs into the evidence, Gillard uncovers two more attacks, and any chance of taking time off for the birth of his child disappears.
And all the time the killer is circling closer and closer…
The final instalment of the DCI Gillard Crime Thrillers is a knockout, perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Mark Billingham and Robert Bryndza.
With a baby on the way, a pregnant wife to take care of and a new home to settle into, DCI Craig Gillard seems to have found a life of domestic bliss.
But when retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford is found stabbed to death in front of his own TV while watching Saturday afternoon football, Gillard’s peace is once again disturbed.
Only a day later, just a short walk from his new home, Gillard is himself witness to the killing of a jogger in Nightingale Park. A strange forensic connection emerges between the two killings, something that seems impossible. As he digs into the evidence, Gillard uncovers two more attacks, and any chance of taking time off for the birth of his child disappears.
And all the time the killer is circling closer and closer…
The final instalment of the DCI Gillard Crime Thrillers is a knockout, perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Mark Billingham and Robert Bryndza.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2023
60 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Nick Louth
41 books294 followersNick Louth is a freelance journalist and author, based in Lincolnshire UK.
Before beginning writing fiction, he was a foreign correspondent for Reuters news agency, and a regular contributor to the Financial Times, MSN, and many financial magazines.
Before beginning writing fiction, he was a foreign correspondent for Reuters news agency, and a regular contributor to the Financial Times, MSN, and many financial magazines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 12, 2023
This 12th and final book in the series (I’ll come back to that later) starts with Craig and Sam moving, finally, into their new home in Guildford. However, it would have been a very short story (and a dull one) if Craig wasn’t Craig and his boss Alison not so persistent. Instead of staying at home for a few weeks to properly help Sam getting ready for the birth of their daughter, he has to leave this to Sam’s mother because he needs to go out and solve a complicated case. And another one, although he doesn’t know this beforehand.
I just love this series and I’m happy to see this was a very enjoyable one. I’ve read the first seven in quick succession and book 8 very recently, because another reviewer mentioned that certain people from book 8 would play a role in book 12. And I’m happy I did! I must say, you can, if you wish, read the whole series out of order, but one thing I enjoyed was reading about how the relationship between Craig and Sam evolves, and of course, how a group of colleagues gets better at doing their job because they get to know each other better. Every colleague of Craig has his or her own distinctive voice. I was also happy to see that a couple of questions I had after reading book 6, 7 and 8, were answered in book 12. So, a very neat ending to this series.
As usual there was a lot going on that on first sight had no relation to other things going on. But the pace picks up and soon it’s clear that not only the two cases are intertwined, the whole story seems to have tentacles that reach far into the lives of Craig and Sam. Too far, you could say.
Despite the fact that there is a lot of tension and unexpected twists and turns, Craig’s ‘adventures’ are always more centred on the procedural site of police work. The story once again clearly shows how much patience each member of the team must have because there are so many small things to be checked and rechecked. The only one who’s always bothering Craig to hurry up is his boss Alison, and the way he handles the pressure of her wanting to solve his cases within a ridiculously short time is brilliant.
A wholly deserved four stars! Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for this review copy.
I just love this series and I’m happy to see this was a very enjoyable one. I’ve read the first seven in quick succession and book 8 very recently, because another reviewer mentioned that certain people from book 8 would play a role in book 12. And I’m happy I did! I must say, you can, if you wish, read the whole series out of order, but one thing I enjoyed was reading about how the relationship between Craig and Sam evolves, and of course, how a group of colleagues gets better at doing their job because they get to know each other better. Every colleague of Craig has his or her own distinctive voice. I was also happy to see that a couple of questions I had after reading book 6, 7 and 8, were answered in book 12. So, a very neat ending to this series.
As usual there was a lot going on that on first sight had no relation to other things going on. But the pace picks up and soon it’s clear that not only the two cases are intertwined, the whole story seems to have tentacles that reach far into the lives of Craig and Sam. Too far, you could say.
Despite the fact that there is a lot of tension and unexpected twists and turns, Craig’s ‘adventures’ are always more centred on the procedural site of police work. The story once again clearly shows how much patience each member of the team must have because there are so many small things to be checked and rechecked. The only one who’s always bothering Craig to hurry up is his boss Alison, and the way he handles the pressure of her wanting to solve his cases within a ridiculously short time is brilliant.
A wholly deserved four stars! Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for this review copy.
December 31, 2023
This is the twelfth book in the DCI Craig Gillard series. It's the first book I've read by this author and I am happy to say I read it without feeling lost and I can therefore recommend it as a standalone.
While working to find the Nightingale Park rapist, as well as the murderer of retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford, Gillard hears the screams of a man in the park one night and discovers a man's body, still warm and horribly mutilated. Although Gillard is supposed to be on leave, since his heavily pregnant wife is due to give birth any day, the pressure to solve these mysterious cases forces him back to work. From there, the twists and turns abound!
I was pulled in from the very beginning of the book and could not even BEGIN to imagine how these cases could possibly be solved! I definitely recommend The Body in Nightengale Park.
Big thanks to both Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of The Body in Nightengale Park by Nick Louth.
While working to find the Nightingale Park rapist, as well as the murderer of retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford, Gillard hears the screams of a man in the park one night and discovers a man's body, still warm and horribly mutilated. Although Gillard is supposed to be on leave, since his heavily pregnant wife is due to give birth any day, the pressure to solve these mysterious cases forces him back to work. From there, the twists and turns abound!
I was pulled in from the very beginning of the book and could not even BEGIN to imagine how these cases could possibly be solved! I definitely recommend The Body in Nightengale Park.
Big thanks to both Canelo and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of The Body in Nightengale Park by Nick Louth.
July 13, 2023
The Body in Nightingale Park is the twelfth and (probably) final book in the excellent DI/DCI Craig Gillard series, set in Surrey. I’ve read them all in order, which is helpful if like me you enjoy series for the ongoing character evolution and inter-relationships, but not necessary, as each book is a stand-alone mystery. This one does however bring back certain characters from Book 8, The Body on the Moor, so it’s preferable to have at least read that one first. I beta-read this for the author a few months ago, then reread an ARC copy via NetGalley, and was happy to note certain minor changes that have tightened up the plot and increased the suspense factor.
Craig and his heavily pregnant wife Sam have just moved into a new house in a smart part of Guildford, and he is looking forward to some much needed leave, when he learns that a revered retired police sergeant has been stabbed to death in his Brighton home while watching a football match. Then a jogger is killed in the park near Craig’s home, following a series of violent assaults, and he is himself attacked by the fleeing suspect. When an inexplicable forensic link between the cases emerges, Craig is unable to resist the pressure to return to work, but with Sam about to give birth and his team spread across the country, will this case be the one to break him?
This was another well plotted police procedural, with a topical issue in the UK front and centre - no spoilers! I liked how the female members of Gillard’s team are taking over, especially Clare, and how Rainy and her backstory are developed. There are nuggets of humour and the writing flows smoothly. I have mixed feelings about this series ending, as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the varied and unpredictably twisty mysteries that Gillard and his team have unlocked. I do however feel that some authors keep their heroes going too long - how many serial killers can one police team encounter - so respect the decision to wrap things up here, even if I’m sad about aspects of the ending, and a bit disappointed that certain characters’ arcs are left unresolved. The three chapters of Louth’s new series opener included at the end are an appropriate consolation prize, and I look forward to reading the rest of it.
Craig and his heavily pregnant wife Sam have just moved into a new house in a smart part of Guildford, and he is looking forward to some much needed leave, when he learns that a revered retired police sergeant has been stabbed to death in his Brighton home while watching a football match. Then a jogger is killed in the park near Craig’s home, following a series of violent assaults, and he is himself attacked by the fleeing suspect. When an inexplicable forensic link between the cases emerges, Craig is unable to resist the pressure to return to work, but with Sam about to give birth and his team spread across the country, will this case be the one to break him?
This was another well plotted police procedural, with a topical issue in the UK front and centre - no spoilers! I liked how the female members of Gillard’s team are taking over, especially Clare, and how Rainy and her backstory are developed. There are nuggets of humour and the writing flows smoothly. I have mixed feelings about this series ending, as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the varied and unpredictably twisty mysteries that Gillard and his team have unlocked. I do however feel that some authors keep their heroes going too long - how many serial killers can one police team encounter - so respect the decision to wrap things up here, even if I’m sad about aspects of the ending, and a bit disappointed that certain characters’ arcs are left unresolved. The three chapters of Louth’s new series opener included at the end are an appropriate consolation prize, and I look forward to reading the rest of it.
August 17, 2023
The Body In Nightingale Park is the twelfth and final instalment in the DCI Craig Gillard Crime Thrillers series set in and around Surrey, UK. Craig and his heavily pregnant wife, Sam, are not only awaiting the birth of their child any day now but are also in the process of moving into a larger house on Parkmead Crescent in a leafy suburb of Guildford. Excited for the next stage of their lives together, Craig has booked some well-deserved and much-needed paternity time off from detective work to bond with the new baby and settle into their new abode. However, due to miscarriages in the past, the couple's anxiety is through the roof and to compound matters further they still haven't managed to sell their old home, and they could really do with freeing up that cash. Their new gaff is just a stone's throw from Nightingale Park where two serious sexual assaults have taken place over the past few years which helped secure them a discount off the property. However, three days before moving in, Craig had been made aware of another attack in the park.
A 17-year-old young woman had been dragged into the bushes and violated using the same MO as the earlier attacks. Meanwhile, DI Claire Mulholland, his closest friend on the force, calls him to tell him that recently retired police sergeant Ken Stableford has been murdered, found with a knife wound to the chest. He had been watching the football with a mate at his Brighton home when it apparently occurred and neighbouring Sussex police have assigned Claire to ensure an impartial investigation given the police colleague Ken had been enjoying the match with at the time. A few days later, Craig decides to go for a morning walk in the cold, damp weather; after all, they only live 3 minutes from the park. No one is around when he arrives but beginning his stroll, he hears a piercing scream. He runs towards the general area and sees a scooter rider careening towards him. He orders him to stop but the guy attempts to kick him in the head and then in the ribs. Gillard hits his head on the stony ground and the perpetrator gets away.
He later finds that he had stumbled into the crime scene of a jogger murder and the beating he had gotten was from the killer. No one is more surprised than the police when a forensic connection is drawn between the untimely Stableford murder and a number of attacks carried out in broad daylight, including the one in the park. What ties them together and can the killer be stopped? This is an enthralling and immaculately plotted police procedural that explores topical, ripped-from-the-headlines issues with aplomb, and I simply didn't put it down. By now, the characters have become more like old friends, especially Craig, with the plot being driven as much by the reader's investment in his personal life as his professional one. I also appreciate that Louth has stated that he has intentionally left things where they currently are by the end of this book in order to be able to possibly bring Gillard back in the future. There is plenty of tension and heart-pounding moments as well as twists and reveals throughout that come as a surprise. A riveting, realistic and perfectly pitched series conclusion. I hope we don't have to wait too long for The Two Deaths of Ruth Lyle.
A 17-year-old young woman had been dragged into the bushes and violated using the same MO as the earlier attacks. Meanwhile, DI Claire Mulholland, his closest friend on the force, calls him to tell him that recently retired police sergeant Ken Stableford has been murdered, found with a knife wound to the chest. He had been watching the football with a mate at his Brighton home when it apparently occurred and neighbouring Sussex police have assigned Claire to ensure an impartial investigation given the police colleague Ken had been enjoying the match with at the time. A few days later, Craig decides to go for a morning walk in the cold, damp weather; after all, they only live 3 minutes from the park. No one is around when he arrives but beginning his stroll, he hears a piercing scream. He runs towards the general area and sees a scooter rider careening towards him. He orders him to stop but the guy attempts to kick him in the head and then in the ribs. Gillard hits his head on the stony ground and the perpetrator gets away.
He later finds that he had stumbled into the crime scene of a jogger murder and the beating he had gotten was from the killer. No one is more surprised than the police when a forensic connection is drawn between the untimely Stableford murder and a number of attacks carried out in broad daylight, including the one in the park. What ties them together and can the killer be stopped? This is an enthralling and immaculately plotted police procedural that explores topical, ripped-from-the-headlines issues with aplomb, and I simply didn't put it down. By now, the characters have become more like old friends, especially Craig, with the plot being driven as much by the reader's investment in his personal life as his professional one. I also appreciate that Louth has stated that he has intentionally left things where they currently are by the end of this book in order to be able to possibly bring Gillard back in the future. There is plenty of tension and heart-pounding moments as well as twists and reveals throughout that come as a surprise. A riveting, realistic and perfectly pitched series conclusion. I hope we don't have to wait too long for The Two Deaths of Ruth Lyle.
July 2, 2023
DCI Craig Gillard is, according to statistics, going through two of the most stressful situations at the same time! His wife, Sam, is just a week or so away from giving birth to their first child, and they've just moved house! Unfortunately, his new location near Nightingale Park has recently gained a dangerous reputation, and some locals are unhappy about the lack of results from the local constabulary. When Craig becomes unintentionally involved, the resulting phone call from his very persuasive boss means his two weeks leave are over before they've even begun.
Working high profile cases is nothing new for Gillard, but when he finds unexpected links to crimes committed across the country, even he can't hide his surprise or concern. With Sam's due date getting ever nearer Craig wants nothing more than to be with her but as the evidence keeps drawing him closer and closer to home it won't be long before that is the last place either of them will want to be.
This is the twelfth and final outing for Detective Chief Inspector Craig Gillard, and, I am absolutely sure, it won't only be me who will miss him enormously. From the start this has been a brilliant series with well rounded, likeable, and loathsome, characters who leave their mark on the reader as they commit or work on complicated, detailed, crimes expertly written by one of the best criminal thriller writers out there.
There was nothing I didn't like about this except the 'final' part! The tension was palpable, exploding into action at various points throughout until everything came together in a finale I was totally invested in with sweaty palms, racing heart, and a desperate need to keep reading, it was just WOW!
Once I'd calmed down a bit I read the tantalising excerpt from Mr Louth's new series and he's absolutely done it again, starting off with a jaw dropping investigation which already has me keen to keep reading. For now, though, thank you, DCI Gillard. It's been a pleasure.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Canelo, but the opinions expressed are my own. This was crime writing of the highest calibre, and I loved it.
Working high profile cases is nothing new for Gillard, but when he finds unexpected links to crimes committed across the country, even he can't hide his surprise or concern. With Sam's due date getting ever nearer Craig wants nothing more than to be with her but as the evidence keeps drawing him closer and closer to home it won't be long before that is the last place either of them will want to be.
This is the twelfth and final outing for Detective Chief Inspector Craig Gillard, and, I am absolutely sure, it won't only be me who will miss him enormously. From the start this has been a brilliant series with well rounded, likeable, and loathsome, characters who leave their mark on the reader as they commit or work on complicated, detailed, crimes expertly written by one of the best criminal thriller writers out there.
There was nothing I didn't like about this except the 'final' part! The tension was palpable, exploding into action at various points throughout until everything came together in a finale I was totally invested in with sweaty palms, racing heart, and a desperate need to keep reading, it was just WOW!
Once I'd calmed down a bit I read the tantalising excerpt from Mr Louth's new series and he's absolutely done it again, starting off with a jaw dropping investigation which already has me keen to keep reading. For now, though, thank you, DCI Gillard. It's been a pleasure.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Canelo, but the opinions expressed are my own. This was crime writing of the highest calibre, and I loved it.
July 9, 2023
I really like Nick Louth's DCI Craig Gillard series and this book did not disappoint in any way at all. There is an a hell of a lot going on in this read which certainly grabbed my attention and held it throughout. Gillard and his team investigate a murder of a business man which runs alongside another separate investigation. Are the two cases linked? I think this book is very well written, I like the writing style and that the book flowed effortlessly. The plot line is very intricate and complex and well executed and went off in a way I did not expect making me want to know more. I've always liked the small glimpses into Gillard's personal and home life and enjoyed seeing his character develop in this series. I hadn't a clue who the murderer was or how the cases would connect and really enjoyed the tension, thrills and suspense the author created here. The last part of the book was an absorbing read where everything starts to come together nicely. I'd say this can be read as a standalone although if you've not read any of the previous books in this series you're best to read them from the beginning. I'm quite sad this is the last book in the series to be honest and know at some point in the future I'll return to reread them, and am glad the author gave a good and satisfying closure for one of my favourite Detectives.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
September 27, 2023
4.5 (RTC)
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Canelo for approving me for an ARC of this book. I have been reading the whole series and was interested to see what the final instalment would hold. Whilst this book is part of a series it will work as a standalone, as each book focuses on a different case.
🕵🏻This series has become one of my staple series. I always know what I’m going to get and can easily settle into the story from the beginning. This book has numerous investigations on the go, spanning a lot of the UK. Watching all the puzzle pieces fit into place was very satisfactory and as always, executed brilliantly.
💥I’ve come to expect explosive endings with these books but Nick Louth more than delivered with this one. The dramatic finale definitely had me on the edge of my seat, I could hardly catch my breath.
👩🏻It was great to see Sam playing a larger role in this story, I really like the insight we get into her marriage with Craig. The eagerly anticipated arrival of their baby also added tension to the story.
⭐Whilst I am sad to see this series end I do feel that Nick Louth gave us the perfect ending. One final action-packed, twisty read filled with some of my favourite characters.
I’d like to thank NetGalley and Canelo for approving me for an ARC of this book. I have been reading the whole series and was interested to see what the final instalment would hold. Whilst this book is part of a series it will work as a standalone, as each book focuses on a different case.
🕵🏻This series has become one of my staple series. I always know what I’m going to get and can easily settle into the story from the beginning. This book has numerous investigations on the go, spanning a lot of the UK. Watching all the puzzle pieces fit into place was very satisfactory and as always, executed brilliantly.
💥I’ve come to expect explosive endings with these books but Nick Louth more than delivered with this one. The dramatic finale definitely had me on the edge of my seat, I could hardly catch my breath.
👩🏻It was great to see Sam playing a larger role in this story, I really like the insight we get into her marriage with Craig. The eagerly anticipated arrival of their baby also added tension to the story.
⭐Whilst I am sad to see this series end I do feel that Nick Louth gave us the perfect ending. One final action-packed, twisty read filled with some of my favourite characters.
April 6, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I’ve read a few from the same series so I fully expected this to be the case.
DI Craig Gillard should be setting into his new home with his wife Sam, ready to enjoy the imminent arrival of their first child. We, we know that’s not going to happen! Two seemingly unconnected murders have an unexpected link which sends both investigations down a common route. The cases becomes more baffling when another brutal murder and an attempted murder take place which are separated by hundreds of miles but very few hours. These are also linked. Could it really be the same assassin? What do the victims have in common?
The book is well written with realistic characterisation. I believe this is the last in the series of Craig Gillard books which is a shame; I’m going to read those in the series that I haven’t yet read.
DI Craig Gillard should be setting into his new home with his wife Sam, ready to enjoy the imminent arrival of their first child. We, we know that’s not going to happen! Two seemingly unconnected murders have an unexpected link which sends both investigations down a common route. The cases becomes more baffling when another brutal murder and an attempted murder take place which are separated by hundreds of miles but very few hours. These are also linked. Could it really be the same assassin? What do the victims have in common?
The book is well written with realistic characterisation. I believe this is the last in the series of Craig Gillard books which is a shame; I’m going to read those in the series that I haven’t yet read.
Read
July 10, 2023I have read all the books in this series so was looking forward to reading the next instalment. I wasn’t disappointed. Gillard is a hands on policeman so much so that he is attacked by a perpetrator early on in this story. There is a subplot regarding Gillard’s home life - new house, new baby. The themes in the story are around domestic violence, revenge and sisterhood. The ending is slightly surprising but leaves the series open to a new direction for Gillard. Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for a pre publication ebook.
July 2, 2023
This is the twelfth book in the DCI Craig Gillard series by author Nick Louth featuring the detective based in the Home Counties.
I really enjoy this series having joined it around the halfway point and every time I finish the latest instalment I tell myself I will have to catch up on the very early books. This latest instalment, “The Body in Nightingale Park” is another excellent crime thriller that for me was a real page turner. Nick Louth is a very good author and has constructed an excellent character in DCI Craig Gillard with a perfect balance between the investigations and his personal life. In this book he is thrown into an investigation when two murders occur in close proximity to his new home.
The author builds up the tension throughout with a mix of the challenges Gillard faces at work and at home with the imminent birth of his child. With most of his focus being on the upcoming birth his attention is turned to the sudden murder of retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford. DCI Craig Gillard is very conscientious and even though he would rather be at home he is still determined to solve the case.
When a jogger is brutally killed in Nightingale Park, Gillard finds himself at the heart of the investigation. The two seemingly unrelated murders are found to have a fascinating forensic connection that defies all logic. This intriguing and unexpected twist lifts the novel to another level as Gillard tries to uncover the truth.
This book is well written and I enjoy the authors writing style. I not only plan to read the early books in this series but also some of the standalone novels. The descriptive text, attention to detail along with the very good characters make this series one of my favourites. I really enjoy police procedural thrillers and this series is full of them.
DCI Craig Gillard is a well developed character that is relatable and an excellent multi-dimensional protagonist who tries to balance his need for justice with the demands of his personal life.
This is a very good fast paced thriller that had me hooked and begging for more. Well written and full of suspense that kept me guessing throughout and is a very good police procedural novel. Works as a standalone but I would suggest reading the other books in the series like I intend to for the full deal.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoy this series having joined it around the halfway point and every time I finish the latest instalment I tell myself I will have to catch up on the very early books. This latest instalment, “The Body in Nightingale Park” is another excellent crime thriller that for me was a real page turner. Nick Louth is a very good author and has constructed an excellent character in DCI Craig Gillard with a perfect balance between the investigations and his personal life. In this book he is thrown into an investigation when two murders occur in close proximity to his new home.
The author builds up the tension throughout with a mix of the challenges Gillard faces at work and at home with the imminent birth of his child. With most of his focus being on the upcoming birth his attention is turned to the sudden murder of retired police sergeant Ken Stapleford. DCI Craig Gillard is very conscientious and even though he would rather be at home he is still determined to solve the case.
When a jogger is brutally killed in Nightingale Park, Gillard finds himself at the heart of the investigation. The two seemingly unrelated murders are found to have a fascinating forensic connection that defies all logic. This intriguing and unexpected twist lifts the novel to another level as Gillard tries to uncover the truth.
This book is well written and I enjoy the authors writing style. I not only plan to read the early books in this series but also some of the standalone novels. The descriptive text, attention to detail along with the very good characters make this series one of my favourites. I really enjoy police procedural thrillers and this series is full of them.
DCI Craig Gillard is a well developed character that is relatable and an excellent multi-dimensional protagonist who tries to balance his need for justice with the demands of his personal life.
This is a very good fast paced thriller that had me hooked and begging for more. Well written and full of suspense that kept me guessing throughout and is a very good police procedural novel. Works as a standalone but I would suggest reading the other books in the series like I intend to for the full deal.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2023
As usual in my reviews I will not rehash the plot...instead I will recommend that you read this for yourself!
This is the 12th book in the DCI Craig Gillard series - and I'm sad to discover that it is probably the last! Although you don't need to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this (there's enough background information about the characters), this book sees a return of some "persons of interest" from one of the earlier novels (The Body on the Moor), so you might want to read that one first.
I was delighted to receive an ARC of this latest book, and as usual, was not disappointed. The plot is well thought out, drawing together several seemingly unconnected high-profile crimes and cases, which made for an interesting and dramatic read. Against the backdrop of these crimes, DCI Gillard's wife is literally about to give birth any time...adding to the pressure on Craig and the team to get results.
Without giving anything away, the book ends on a note of uncertainty - but I suspect that we will not see any further books in this series. I've enjoyed the whole series, but all good things come to an end as they say...
Recommended if you like twisty police procedurals with believable characters.
As a bonus, the book includes a taster of a new book in a different series by Nick Louth, and having read the taster I'm now looking forward to the rest of the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
This is the 12th book in the DCI Craig Gillard series - and I'm sad to discover that it is probably the last! Although you don't need to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this (there's enough background information about the characters), this book sees a return of some "persons of interest" from one of the earlier novels (The Body on the Moor), so you might want to read that one first.
I was delighted to receive an ARC of this latest book, and as usual, was not disappointed. The plot is well thought out, drawing together several seemingly unconnected high-profile crimes and cases, which made for an interesting and dramatic read. Against the backdrop of these crimes, DCI Gillard's wife is literally about to give birth any time...adding to the pressure on Craig and the team to get results.
Without giving anything away, the book ends on a note of uncertainty - but I suspect that we will not see any further books in this series. I've enjoyed the whole series, but all good things come to an end as they say...
Recommended if you like twisty police procedurals with believable characters.
As a bonus, the book includes a taster of a new book in a different series by Nick Louth, and having read the taster I'm now looking forward to the rest of the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.
October 16, 2023
After reading all the books in this series, I was terribly disappointed that the series had come to an end. I absolutely loved Gillard with his razor sharp mind and his ability to work out all the crimes. I couldn’t abide Sam, his wife and her needy ways, and her dependency on Craig and the continual moaning about him being at work, why she ever married a detective I’ll never know.
Well this time her indoors is due to give birth, and the way she goes on you’d think she’s the only woman to do so. In the meantime they have moved house near to Nightingale Park where a spate of murders and rapes have taken place.
However, this time it’s more personal, as Gillard is out for an evening stroll in the park when he witnesses a murder. Previous to this a retired officer is brutally stabbed in his home whilst watching the football. Are the murders connected? The forensics suggest the impossible connection to the two murders.
I did think this book wasn’t as good as the previous ones, and it was as if the author was rushing to finish it. Even his closest ally, the chief Constable Alison, irritated the life out of me. Normally she would have Gillard’s back no matter what. I did know who the killer was, so that wasn’t a surprise and I think should Nick change his mind, Gillard could possibly return. Let’s hope his mardy wife disappears into the sunset.
Well this time her indoors is due to give birth, and the way she goes on you’d think she’s the only woman to do so. In the meantime they have moved house near to Nightingale Park where a spate of murders and rapes have taken place.
However, this time it’s more personal, as Gillard is out for an evening stroll in the park when he witnesses a murder. Previous to this a retired officer is brutally stabbed in his home whilst watching the football. Are the murders connected? The forensics suggest the impossible connection to the two murders.
I did think this book wasn’t as good as the previous ones, and it was as if the author was rushing to finish it. Even his closest ally, the chief Constable Alison, irritated the life out of me. Normally she would have Gillard’s back no matter what. I did know who the killer was, so that wasn’t a surprise and I think should Nick change his mind, Gillard could possibly return. Let’s hope his mardy wife disappears into the sunset.
July 3, 2023
The Body in Nightingale Park is the 12th book in the wonderful DCI Craig Gillard series.
Having just moved house to Guildford with his pregnant wife Sam, Gillard is on two weeks leave and the baby is due any day. He learns that a number of women have been raped in Nightingale Park which is very near to his new house. When a jogger is killed in the park Gillard finds himself centre stage, and also due to another ongoing investigation into the murder of a retired police officer he finds himself much to Sam’s consternation being called back into work to help, his exemplary skills at investigation much needed.
This is a story with great characters, sparkling, punchy and sharp dialogue added to which are jaw dropping and heart pounding moments.
As usual with this author we have a riveting and brilliantly constructed crime thriller. I have loved every book in this series, they are entertaining and keep you throughly invested in the characters throughout.
I look forward to the next new series from Mr Louth.
Thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
Having just moved house to Guildford with his pregnant wife Sam, Gillard is on two weeks leave and the baby is due any day. He learns that a number of women have been raped in Nightingale Park which is very near to his new house. When a jogger is killed in the park Gillard finds himself centre stage, and also due to another ongoing investigation into the murder of a retired police officer he finds himself much to Sam’s consternation being called back into work to help, his exemplary skills at investigation much needed.
This is a story with great characters, sparkling, punchy and sharp dialogue added to which are jaw dropping and heart pounding moments.
As usual with this author we have a riveting and brilliantly constructed crime thriller. I have loved every book in this series, they are entertaining and keep you throughly invested in the characters throughout.
I look forward to the next new series from Mr Louth.
Thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
July 28, 2025
The Body in Nightingale Park is the 12th and final book in the Craig Gillard series. I appreciated that all of the team had bigger roles in this story, unlike the previous. This is a strong police procedural with just the right balance of personal and professional stories. In fact, that balance is a major theme of the book as Sam is in her 9th month of pregnancy and Craig’s leave gets canceled when a murder occurs and no one else is available to investigate. Claire has been sent to another district to investigate the murder of a retired sergeant from that force. As is typical, those two crimes end up being connected. But Louth never relies on OTT plot points and it did come together in a sensible manner.
Louth has once again written a story with a different than expected resolution, although I will admit to cottoning on to who was behind the crimes fairly early. There’s a high level of tension at the end, which came as a complete shock for me.
I listened to this and once again, Marston York did a fine job as narrator.
Louth has once again written a story with a different than expected resolution, although I will admit to cottoning on to who was behind the crimes fairly early. There’s a high level of tension at the end, which came as a complete shock for me.
I listened to this and once again, Marston York did a fine job as narrator.
September 23, 2025
A page turner with plenty of twists and turns. The story is built around a topical theme - male abuse of power and an organised female response - which parallels The Flounder by Gunter Grass (a book I finished a couple of months ago). This book is a lot easier to read than the Flounder.
It’s the fourth DCI Gillard mystery that I’ve read and I have enjoyed them all. Gillard is worthy successor to Morse and Frost, with a similar decency and intellect, but he’s less sentimental, doesn’t listen to Wagner and drink, probably eats healthy food, has a good personal life and actually exercises unless suffering a workplace injury.
The plots of the DCI Gillard books are intricate and there’s a lot of interesting description of modern forensics.
The only reason I’m not giving this one five stars is that, in order to completely understand the denouement, you need to to have been alert to the significance of a person who’s mentioned once about eight chapters before the end. It’s possible that the character gets more coverage in an earlier DCI Gillard mystery I haven’t read.
I’d definitely recommend this book and the DCI Gillard series generally. They’re intelligent and contemporary and the characters are interesting and often likable.
It’s the fourth DCI Gillard mystery that I’ve read and I have enjoyed them all. Gillard is worthy successor to Morse and Frost, with a similar decency and intellect, but he’s less sentimental, doesn’t listen to Wagner and drink, probably eats healthy food, has a good personal life and actually exercises unless suffering a workplace injury.
The plots of the DCI Gillard books are intricate and there’s a lot of interesting description of modern forensics.
The only reason I’m not giving this one five stars is that, in order to completely understand the denouement, you need to to have been alert to the significance of a person who’s mentioned once about eight chapters before the end. It’s possible that the character gets more coverage in an earlier DCI Gillard mystery I haven’t read.
I’d definitely recommend this book and the DCI Gillard series generally. They’re intelligent and contemporary and the characters are interesting and often likable.
August 23, 2023
I have read all of Nick Louth’s books about DCI Gillard and stopped reading everything else to delve into “The Body in Nightingale Park”. It is the twelfth book in this series and the last one about Craig Gillard.
Nick Louth has a fantastic writing style that concentrates on the procedural side of police work. His stories are for people who like police procedures and excellent characters. Gillard and his wife’s story about the imminent birth of their baby, their new house, and the reluctant involvement in a new murder nearby after pressure from his boss, Alison, was so enjoyable.
The tension at the end of his career was well done and the closure of his work was explained satisfactorily.
I strongly recommend this book and would encourage anyone to purchase the whole series. I am looking forward to Nick Louth’s future series with a new hero.
Nick Louth has a fantastic writing style that concentrates on the procedural side of police work. His stories are for people who like police procedures and excellent characters. Gillard and his wife’s story about the imminent birth of their baby, their new house, and the reluctant involvement in a new murder nearby after pressure from his boss, Alison, was so enjoyable.
The tension at the end of his career was well done and the closure of his work was explained satisfactorily.
I strongly recommend this book and would encourage anyone to purchase the whole series. I am looking forward to Nick Louth’s future series with a new hero.
August 17, 2023
An intense and twisty police procedural with a driven detective and an authentic investigative team dynamic. Entrenched in domesticity, DCI Gillard is always the detective; he is drawn initially as an advice giver in one case and the senior investigating officer in a second. Both are brutal murders, seemingly unrelated except for a forensic connection that leads to a complex and twisty story full of menace. DCi Gillard is an excellent character, a dedicated and determined detective whose personal life is often emotionally challenging.
All the detectives are complex and flawed characters who add depth and human interest to the murder mystery element. I like the story's characters, the thorough investigation and the clever twists.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
All the detectives are complex and flawed characters who add depth and human interest to the murder mystery element. I like the story's characters, the thorough investigation and the clever twists.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
December 4, 2024
Quite a good book in the series, engaged me throughout and it gets 4 stars, more for the entire series rather than as a stand-alone book (I would have given this one 3-1/2 stars if possible).
There were some characters that returned from the most disappointing book in the series (#8), a book that I found a major departure from the formula, giving it 2 stars. And re-reading my review of that volume "I suspect some of these characters may return in the future, but the plot was so poor I have no desire to meet them again."
So I guess was right, and sadly the people were not really worth the wait, but Gillard and the rest of the characters carried this book, that I assume is the last in the series, out OK...
There were some characters that returned from the most disappointing book in the series (#8), a book that I found a major departure from the formula, giving it 2 stars. And re-reading my review of that volume "I suspect some of these characters may return in the future, but the plot was so poor I have no desire to meet them again."
So I guess was right, and sadly the people were not really worth the wait, but Gillard and the rest of the characters carried this book, that I assume is the last in the series, out OK...
March 15, 2025
Although I haven’t read the series I did read this ‘last chapter’ but it stands alone v well. I’m tempted to go back and read others as of course there would be threads including Craig and Sam’s relationship.
Overall it’s a good story - procedural but not particularly heavy and very interesting angles on police work .. the story keeps moving and is atmospheric in terms of the park locality etc. I did find a couple of pieces of dialogue which seemed a bit clunky - for a married couple for example- but these did not detract.
I felt that although this is the final in a series there’s still room for more perhaps in the future.
The trailer for the next series by Louth looks interesting
Overall it’s a good story - procedural but not particularly heavy and very interesting angles on police work .. the story keeps moving and is atmospheric in terms of the park locality etc. I did find a couple of pieces of dialogue which seemed a bit clunky - for a married couple for example- but these did not detract.
I felt that although this is the final in a series there’s still room for more perhaps in the future.
The trailer for the next series by Louth looks interesting
January 4, 2024
The Body in Nightingale Park by Nick Louth is book 12 in the DCI Craig Gillard police crime series. This storyline is about men who have abused women, whether it was their wife, their child or a woman who they worked with them.
There is a serial rapist offending in Nightingale Park, then there are a series of murders of different men which may turn out to be linked somehow.
Another good read and possibly the end of DCI Gillard as a serving policeman.
We will have to wait and see..
Highly recommended
July 13, 2023
Craig Gillard is trying to enjoy leave, waiting for his daughter to be born, but is pulled back into work when a high profile businessman is murdered. Despite needing all hands on deck, his team is split when a retired policeman is murdered in his home. He loses another member of his team, Rainy McIntosh, when her ex his killed in a hit-and-run accident. I believe this may be th last entry in this series, but if so, Louth has hit one out of the park here. Highly recommended.
July 14, 2023
Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for this eARC.
I found this story to be an excellent entry. / addition to an awesome series! The only negative was reading that this is the last entry in this particular series.
If you love quality police procedures engaging storylines, give this author a read; Personally, I Am glad to have discovered this engaging writer and I will be watching for more from him.
until next time...
I found this story to be an excellent entry. / addition to an awesome series! The only negative was reading that this is the last entry in this particular series.
If you love quality police procedures engaging storylines, give this author a read; Personally, I Am glad to have discovered this engaging writer and I will be watching for more from him.
until next time...
July 25, 2023
I highly recommend this series of books, featuring DCI Gillard. This is book 12 in the series, possibly the last but it is still an excellent read. I was hooked from the first page until the ending, with the topical plotting and the excellent characterisation. It's fast moving, with touches of humour and enough twists to keep the reader occupied. One of the best series in the genre. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC, it was an easy 5*.
October 15, 2023
4.5 stars
A great final to a very entertaining series that focusses a lot on the investigating team, their background and interactions, but without putting that in the center of the individual cases.
The story was well-plotted, the narration by Marston York fabulous.
Now it is time to say goodbye to all of the characters we have got to know so well, and look forward to Nick Louth's new series.
A great final to a very entertaining series that focusses a lot on the investigating team, their background and interactions, but without putting that in the center of the individual cases.
The story was well-plotted, the narration by Marston York fabulous.
Now it is time to say goodbye to all of the characters we have got to know so well, and look forward to Nick Louth's new series.
December 13, 2023
The Body in Nightingale Park is a riveting police procedural that is fast paced from beginning to end. I started with this book so I can’t say how it feels to with the series but it’s f the other books are anything like this one I’m sure the series is a must read. I will have to catch up on them when I can. If you like complex police procedurals with plenty of twists turns and a shocking ending this is the book for you.
February 19, 2025
This is the end of the series which I have just binge listened and I found it a good ending - a little bit manufactured to get the plot where the author wanted it to be, but apart from that it works. This shows how important it is to read/listen in order as this book ties up or continues plots from previous books, the main one being the book with focusing on the lawyer which I really didnt enjoy so I was really pleased the characters actually were more fleshed out here.
July 9, 2023
The twelfth and final installment in the excellent series featuring DCI Craig Gillard. This book has a fabulously convoluted plot, with multiple crimes being investigated. It's fast paced and well-written and very entertaining.
I'm now looking forward to reading Nick Louth's new series.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
I'm now looking forward to reading Nick Louth's new series.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
September 13, 2023
Thank you Netgalley and Canelo
This is the 12th and I think final book in the superb series. I do not do spoikers, but will say that the book goes out with a bang. I was pretty sure early on who the killer was but the supporting story around it was not clear cut in my mind until the end. Fantastic writing as always. Highly recommend.
This is the 12th and I think final book in the superb series. I do not do spoikers, but will say that the book goes out with a bang. I was pretty sure early on who the killer was but the supporting story around it was not clear cut in my mind until the end. Fantastic writing as always. Highly recommend.
September 16, 2023
I didn't read all the books in this series but most of them and was a bit sad to say good bye to the characters.
This is a well plotted and solid police procedural, there's plenty of surprising twists and it kept me guessing.
I love the storytelling and the well developed characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This is a well plotted and solid police procedural, there's plenty of surprising twists and it kept me guessing.
I love the storytelling and the well developed characters
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 17, 2023
This is the first book I've read from this author and was surprised to see that there had been others in the series. I enjoyed the book, never a dull moment, it had something to keep my interest on every page. I really liked the way all lose ends were tied at the end and I will definitely try and find other books in this series.
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