The Dead Of Night

DS Jack Townsend #1

by Robert Enright

A chilling new detective series from the author of the international best-selling, critically acclaimed Sam Pope series.

Someone is killing...

After three years undercover in some of the most dangerous gangs in the UK, DS Jack Townsend, along with his wife and young daughter, relocate to a pleasant village in Buckinghamshire. A promise of a fresh start, a chance to reconnect, and the opportunity to join the Thames Valley Police's Specialist Crimes Unit (SCU).

Headed up by DI Isabella King, the SCU is handed it's first case when the body of a woman is found in the woods of Wycombe Rye, the victim of a brutal stabbing.

As the body count begins to rise, and with the clock ticking, the newly formed team must navigate their new surroundings, a depleted budget, and a quiet town shaken to it's core to stop a killer who is spiralling out of control..

Every victim deserves justice.

Genres: Crime

358 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 10, 2023

About the author

Robert Enright was born in North London and resides in Buckinghamshire with his wife and daughter, working earnestly to write for a living and dreaming of the day he can get a dog.

He is the author of the international best selling Sam Pope series as well as the DS Jack Townsend series.

Robert also hosts the Two Indie Authors podcast, alongside fellow best selling author, David B. Lyons.

Visit his website via the Linktree in the profile and sign up for TWO FREE Sam Pope novellas and ONE FREE Bermuda Jones novella.



Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/robenrightau...

Instagram - robenrightauthor

Reviews

[JOE CARROLL · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very disappointed. Juvenile, naive writing which quite frankly I found to be cringe making and embarrassing. The only reason I rated it a two is that I have found the author to be quite good in the past. This was my first Townsend book and it certainly will be my last.

[Zelda FeatzReviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.
https://featzreviews.com/the-dead-of-...

[Sue Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read with twist at the end. New police unit just set up looking a 4 murders with different people in the frame. Lot of typos in the kindle version.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a police procedural at its finest. If you enjoy the nitty gritty of a police investigation, full of gruelling murders than this is the perfect book for you.
This is book one in a brand new series by Robert Enright featuring the newly established Thames Valley Police Specialist Crimes Unit and their very first case.
The team is headed up by Detective Inspector Isabella King who is a completely likeable, competent character. Assigned to the new SCU is newly promoted DS Jack Townsend who has recently relocated to the area of High Wycombe from Liverpool.
After spending three years undercover he had to be moved for his own safety and that of his family, wife Mandy and young daughter Eve.
Jack has a lot to prove as many in the force believe he was only promoted to detective inspector by way of an apology for his undercover service, not only to the rest of the force but to himself as well.
His first week at work starts with a brutal murder of a young woman, so not only has Jack got a lot to prove but so has Detective Inspector Isabella King heading up the new SCU.
As they begin their investigation not only are they desperate to bring the vicious killer to justice but they are all desperate to show they are up to such a massive case in the face of the unlikable head of CID, DCI Marcus Lowe, who is also DI Kings abhorrent ex husband.
With a lot resting on the teams shoulders things take a turn for the worst as another woman is killed in the same way.
Do they have a serial killer on their hands? Are the new unit and the new team up to the job and can they conduct their investigation in time to stop the killer and before the case is taken off them and handed to CSI?
This is a definite police procedural with a lot of it focusing around the investigation but as well as that it brings to life the characters, their traits and their own lives as they all pull together to crack the case.
It all culminates in an ending and suspect that you won’t see coming until it’s too late!
A great start to a new series and I cannot wait to see both Jack and Isabella flourish in their new Special Crimes Unit and what author Robert Enright has in store for us next!
The Dead Of Night was published on the 10 Nov. 2023 and is available to buy now

[Lynsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘The Dead of Night’ is a brilliant start to a new series - it was a taut and well-plotted novel that has brilliant lead detectives! It features the Thames Valley Specialist Crimes Unit and this is their first major case. This is the first book that I have read of the authors but it won't be the last as I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one!

After being undercover for the last three years, DS Jack Townsend has moved to the Thames Valley Specialist Crimes Unit and we first see him on his first day. Headed up by DI Isabella King, the SCU gets its first case when the body of a young woman is found in the woods by Wycombe Rye. She has been the victim of a horrific attack and the team dives into the case. However, the body count soon rises and with the added pressure of this being their first case, the team have something to prove.

This was a very promising start to this series and I definitely will be keeping an eye out for the forthcoming instalments! The lead detectives were both great protagonists. Jack is still recovering from being undercover and his promotion sees him determined to prove himself but he lacks the confidence to begin within. With Izzy’s help, he starts to believe in himself and proves his weight in gold. Izzy is recovering from an acrimonious divorce and it doesn't help that her ex-husband is in charge of CID. My god, I hated that man with a passion - a testament to being a brilliantly crafted character. What both of them share is a determination to get justice for their victims and I loved that about them!

Did I guess the killer? Yeah, I did but that didn't detract from the narrative as I was still wanting to know how the reveals would come and how Jack and Izzy figured it all out! This was a well-plotted book, the pacing was spot on and it was well-written with interesting and dynamic characters. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

Let me know if you pick this one up!

[Gary Gallucci · Rating 4 out of 5]

A serial killer is threatening women in a small town. The case falls into the hands of a small band of detectives that includes new arrival Jack Townsend. Meanwhile, the department's start detective and his more glorified team stand on the sidelines stewing over the fact that the case wasn't given to them. Meanwhile, women are being murdered every night and the few leads they have are all dead ends. So, pressure naturally grows to solve the case ASAP. A good read. One criticism, though: there are too many annoying typos. What this book really needed was a good copy editor.

[Sonja Charters · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in an exciting new series - The DS Jack Townsend Crime series. And what a great start to the series and a great introduction to this author's work, as it's the first of their books that I've read.

After working undercover for years, Jack is taking on a new role at the special crime unit with Thames Valley Police.
This was meant to be a move away from the past danger and into something a little more "family friendly"
However, when the units first case comes in, Jack finds himself stuck tracking down an out of control killer.

This grabbed me right from the start.
Jack's back story was engaging and knowing that he was an experienced detective already meant that I trusted that the team would work well together to succeed in this case.
However, the pressure for him to prove his worth was high for both himself and the rest of the team and he had to work hard to fit in too.

There were some great supporting characters here too - As Jack and Izzy work the case they start to find a good working dynamic.
After a messy divorce, Izzy finds it hard to still have to answer to her ex-husband, the man in charge of CID! But together she and Jack are determined to move on and prove their worth.

I really liked Jack as a character and feel that there will be a lot more to explore as we work through the series. Maybe even hearing more about his time undercover too.

The writing style was engaging and fast-paced. I also had no clue who the killer was until the reveal which always makes for an exciting read.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to following Jack and team forward to book 2 and another case.

[Jane King · Rating 2 out of 5]

I suspect I would have enjoyed this a lot more if I hadn’t lived near High Wycombe all my life. The story was good but attention to detail by the author of High Wycombe and its surrounding area left a bit to be desired. Some really irritating errors had me shouting at the book. However the actual plot is good if you can get past the geography!

[Vivienne French · Rating 1 out of 5]

On dear

I cannot believe it's the same author - I found this book so slow, dull, lacking a character to care for and a story that has no pace of excitement just a borefest.
I've read everything this fella has written and loved them but won't be following this series.

[Graham · Rating 2 out of 5]

In 2022, published authors earned in the UK about seven thousand pounds per annum, a drop from 2200 when equivalent figure came to about ten thousand pounds. Quote from AI: It is important to note that these are median figures, which means that half of all authors earn more than the median and half earn less. The top 10% of earners make over £50,000 (US$60,000) per year, while the bottom 10% earn less than £2,000 (US$2,400) per year. Despite the challenges, there are still many authors who are able to make a good living from their writing. The key is to be persistent, to find a niche market, and to be willing to market your work effectively. Robert Enright’s author statement on GR says he is working hard to earn a living from writing. His web page does not a bad job of marketing, while he addresses a not very niche market of attempting to produce the next/ Belgian/Montenegrin/ Jack Reacher. Apart from that the answer lies in productivity and here Mr Enright is no slouch. 17 books since the first Sam Pope, 2016. Does this have any effect on quality? Lee Child does it, why can’t I? Lee has hit the jackpot and created a huge industry, while Robert seems to have done it all himself. There is a least no sign of editorial or subeditorial control, or even nudging. Jack (another Jack or Jake, so redolent of trenchant masculine toughness) strives after niche-recognition. He’s troubled and self-doubting, nevertheless pugilistic and self-confident, as well as uxorious. The story is run-of-the-mill and depends upon the near ritual slaughter of woman after woman. I was cheered once to hear that authors were agreeing to stop the stock response to femicide, but it doesn’t seem to have happened. But to the point. IF you’re a lawyer and you defend yourself, then you have an ass for a client (donkey). That’s an old story. Something similar obtains with self-publishing if it means self-editing. There is simply a great abundance of failures in syntax, punctuation, collocation, rhetoric, meaning. An example that made me laugh: “the finest of tooth combs”. While he is not alone in thinking that tooth combs exist, I have never heard this error presented in such starkness. “But don’t be pedantic, you know what he means don’t you?” The invitation to the reader collaborate in establishing meaning can be a legitimate authorial strategy if you’re a Joyce, a Brooke-Rose, a B S Johnson. Otherwise, the author might just as well chuck a scrabble set at you and tell you to get on with it. Take a bit more time Mr Enright, invest a bit more in QC.

[Harri · Rating 1 out of 5]

The setup is a blatant copy of Jussi Adler-Olsen's Department Q novels. Such an obvious steal that the author should be ashamed of himself.

The author also lacks all knowledge about police work. In England, violent crime resulting in death is taken very seriously. An investigation into such a crime causes a specialty team to be formed, with police and civilian members, typically quite big in size. A second murder would make the team huge, with tens of people. Not just three people considered failures by their employing police force, working in a basement.

Also, the police work according to guidelines and plans. They don't just have an impromptu meeting and run out of the door once they get an idea. In reality police work is very methodical and a huge amount of information is gathered, from various sources, in case of violent crime including typically hundreds of interviews, at minimum.

Adult men, at least educated ones, don't actually throw their testosterone around in an office environment. Teen boys do that at schools. But maybe the writer is not much older, as this is such juvenile writing. Worst and stupidest book in years I've wasted time with. Seriously, this is total childish shit. Actually like written by a teen boy.

[Naturalbri (Bri Wignall) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading Enright’s books, back in the Pope series and fell absolutely head over heels with that series, and particularly loved Enright’s writing style. There is just something about the way he is able to weave tale that really captures your attention, and keeps you hooked right to the end.
This book particularly caught my attention, with the attention to detail that the author gave to all of the crime scene moments, really making it match real life and gave the story a very believable feel. I also loved how much the characters were brought to life, in line with the style of writing that I am very used to with this author.
I found the storyline excellent and very exciting throughout. It had plenty of twists to really keep you guessing, but still managed to remain realistic and believable. Overall, I loved it!

[Douglas J. Muenzer · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book started out really good. I was wrapped up in the character development and was mentally involved in the story. I cared about DS Townsend, DI King, and Hannon. But as the story unfolded, it seemed like the author stopped the character development. The story itself stalled into just a bunch of words without actually adding to the story. Every time the author introduced a new female character, you immediately knew they were going to be the next murder victim. There was very little actual detective work and no intrigue as to who was the murderer was. The ending came was too easily as if the author didn't know exactly how to end the book. I was actually disappointed in the last 50% of the book, as I was actually enjoying the story. It was a let down for sure.

[Nicky Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was very well written and the characters were believable and likeable. The story was intricate and surrounded the gruesome murders of four seemingly unconnected women. The newly created Specialist Crime Unit based in High Wycombe was tasked with finding the murderer. Each team member has their own issues and the story mainly revolves around the newest member - DS Jack Townsend - a transfer in from Liverpool after spending 3 years undercover. There was also the very unlikeable senior DCI who has a history with the DI - but he is brought down a peg or two towards the end which was pure magic.
I am looking forward to reading the next installment.

[Madison Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

While it seemed a little slow going at times, it was a pretty good book. Reminded me of the show Broadchurch. Which I also loved. The comradery between the special crimes unit group was outstanding. I adored King and Townsend. Especially in the end bc if you don't hate Lowe reading this, then you're wrong 😂 The family aspect, the friendships, the harrowing life stories, it was all pretty great. Someone reccomended this book on Facebook saying if you like Broadchurch (which I've watched twice 😬) give it a go. I'm glad I did. I laughed, I teared up, and I rooted for King and her group. Can't wait to start the next one.

[Simon Prior · Rating 5 out of 5]

After being disappointed by the opening Sam Pope novel, I was skeptical whether I would enjoy this series by the same author. I’m glad I tried it as this was really enjoyable. It helped that it was based around High Wycombe which I know well so it added to the feelings of excitement.

I really felt bought into the main characters, particularly DS Townsend and the back story really helped you root for him.

The twists and turns of the case were good, although the limited potential suspects meant it couldn’t only be one person by the end of the book.

Looking forward to book two…

Still perplexed by the reference to Sam Pope in the early chapter about Townsends past… are they somehow linked??

[Guy Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a nice easy read , with interesting characters ,Jack Townsend is introduced as a newly arrived DS in High Wycombe and his other 2 team members in a basement , out of sight , out of mind and the various rivalries and relationships with other departments.
As I grew up in Cookham I know the area of which it is set .
A seriel killer on a spree, various blind alleys , but I have to say by the 4th killing I had guessed the killer, but in no way did this spoil my enjoyment.
Now getting the other 2 Tanner books currently available because I actually liked the characters.

[Sue Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good read

Excellently written story showing how basic police work with no stone unturned catches the criminals in the end. Must admit after the 2nd murder I was physically shouting at the characters to tell them who the murderer was. However I enjoyed the telling and Jack who by the end, and including something he had to get his wife’s permission to do, he was my absolute hero .

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good

Good read but not riveting. I got a bit fed up that Jack was constantly referred to as the newbie etc. I guessed who the perpetrator was about midway through so the revilation didn't give me that wow moment. The DCI lacked Leadership so it wasn't a developed character. I've just finished the fictional Max Craigie books,( like Line of Duty), which are brilliant so to read this after was not at that standard.

[Chopper]

I do enjoy books set in a locality I know well and a book based on my hometown was a no brainer. well written and enjoyable, only downside knowing an area so well, you have to allow for the authors "artistic impression" especially when the book is travelling about the area. Why did he go via there to get there? or when did they build that?

Already reading the 2nd book and may well have a look at his other series.

[Mary Matroni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Misfits that fit together

After years of undercover work DS Jack Townsend is now part of a new unit led by a superior detective who is rather low on self worth but has a good and strong mind with a kind heart. Included are a fun singing detective and one who was physically damaged on a previous case leaving her fearful of life. Together the four odd ball detectives form a solid team. Looking forward to new cases.

[W. Pattinson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Terrible grammar, poor story.

I like a good “ who did it “, but early on it was quite obvious that this book hasn’t been proof read.
The story was ok but focussed a lot on where it was set, in High Wycombe, and not being from there, or never visited, I wasn’t interested in the detail of how an individual got from one place to another via named streets and parks.
Overall, disappointing.

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay but not great reading

I found this novel to be repetitive and unrealistic. The plot was mot bad but I guessed who the murderer was. It felt that the author wanted to have good endings and an idealistic way to get them. I didn't like the way the author wrote but didn't hate it. Just glad when I finished it. I understandings this is the first of a series but I won't be reading any more.

[Mrs Kay Justice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this.

I read all the Sam Pope series by Mr Enright and really enjoyed them. Hoping for another one soon. I was really interested when I saw this which has Jack Townsend as the main character, who was a character in one of the Sam Pope series. Extremely well written and looking forward to reading the next 2 which I have already, purchased and pre ordered the 4th. Definitely recommend this book.

[Dez Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘We are detectives,’ King said dryly. ‘Pretty good ones, too.’

Just like this book. I've read all the Sam Pope books which are all amazing ( please write some more) so didn't hesitate to pick this one up.
Nice well paced book that kept me reading just to find out what happens next. Well done Robert.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beware the least likely

I am glad Enright delivered our hero to a stunning new beginning. Lots of interplay between upstairs and downstairs characters both in the townies and the coppers. Good first book for the series. Recommend this to psycho criminal enthusiasts one and all. Good read that kept my attention.

[M J · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murders in High Wycombe, Bucks

With police procedurals where there have been murders, the reader wants to be able to work out or guess who the murderer is. In this book once they had eliminated the first two suspects there weren’t enough other suspects. So unless the author was going to introduce a murderer very late in the story, it had to be the guy that it was.

[London Teacher · Rating 1 out of 5]

It’s always so disappointing to read a book which is full of misspellings, typos, bad grammar and wrong lexical choices. Where was the editor I wonder? Also I guessed the perp almost as soon as they appeared. Otherwise a pleasant but unremarkable police procedural. But I won’t be reading any more in this series.

[Andy Blanche · Rating 3 out of 5]

Police procedurals are a very crowded genre and I read a lot of them as part of my overall mix. This didn’t really engage me but I think it may have been Robert’s first novel? What did strike me forcefully is the awful proof reading by the publisher. See my clippings for one example of very many in the book. It also contained some political sniping which I find very tiresome in a novel.

[ALAN T CLARKE · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good story

I enjoyed this book although I found it a bit too long. Some of the Police
Procedures were a bit off, what about ‘Holmes’s. And PACE never
mentioned, The murder of the coloured woman mentioned her nail
raking the suspects face, DNR under nails injury to suspect never mentioned..