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DI Nick Dixon #14
From the Ashes
Long lives are being cut short in this thriller from the bestselling DI Nick Dixon crime series.
A retired teacher is found dead in her Somerset home on a cold January night. At first glance, it is a routine unexplained death and a simple referral to the coroner, until a neighbour reports an unscheduled visit from an occupational therapist an hour before the body was discovered.
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Dixon is convinced the elderly woman has been strangled—a cause of death confirmed by the pathologist—and a murder investigation is launched.
More victims are soon found—a second retired teacher who died in eerily similar circumstances in Devon. Then a possible third victim is exhumed in Dorset.
Leading a regional task force, Dixon must find the connection between the victims. As the coincidences mount, he begins to fear he has stumbled on something premeditated and deeply sinister—a serial killer targeting the elderly in their own homes.
A retired teacher is found dead in her Somerset home on a cold January night. At first glance, it is a routine unexplained death and a simple referral to the coroner, until a neighbour reports an unscheduled visit from an occupational therapist an hour before the body was discovered.
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Dixon is convinced the elderly woman has been strangled—a cause of death confirmed by the pathologist—and a murder investigation is launched.
More victims are soon found—a second retired teacher who died in eerily similar circumstances in Devon. Then a possible third victim is exhumed in Dorset.
Leading a regional task force, Dixon must find the connection between the victims. As the coincidences mount, he begins to fear he has stumbled on something premeditated and deeply sinister—a serial killer targeting the elderly in their own homes.
361 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2024
About the author
Damien Boyd
31 books1,006 followersDamien Boyd is a former solicitor turned crime fiction writer.
Drawing on extensive experience of criminal law as well as a spell in the Crown Prosecution Service, Damien writes fast paced crime novels featuring Detective Inspector Nick Dixon.
Damien is published by Thomas & Mercer.
Drawing on extensive experience of criminal law as well as a spell in the Crown Prosecution Service, Damien writes fast paced crime novels featuring Detective Inspector Nick Dixon.
Damien is published by Thomas & Mercer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
July 25, 2024
I do look forward to each book in this series and am surprised to have reached the 14th book. This is not a book to start with. There are quite a few characters in this one so I would recommend starting at the beginning. This is my last Kindle Unlimited book for a time. Now I can turn on MHz for some enjoyable video and give my eyes a rest.
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
June 4, 2024
Nick Dixon
This
series is so good I have to read them in one sitting as you get drawn into the stories without realising it. Looking forward to the next one. Damien Boyd is on to a winner with th DI Nick Dixon series and hope he writes many more.
This
series is so good I have to read them in one sitting as you get drawn into the stories without realising it. Looking forward to the next one. Damien Boyd is on to a winner with th DI Nick Dixon series and hope he writes many more.
June 17, 2024
Just read the whole series. You will never regret it
It's been a bit busy this week, and have not had time to do any reviews of the last 13 books in the series, but it was because I wanted to read the next book... And that's what I've done, finished one, gave it 5 stars and then downloaded the next one.
It has been a joy and pleasure to read all these books in one sitting.
If a book can make you gasp, then you know you're on a winner.
If a book makes you shout out.... You know you have to read the next book
When you get to the end, and you feel a little sad because there are no more, you start searching everything the author had written.
So I'm left to say Thank you Mr Boyd, and I will start my search now 🤗
It's been a bit busy this week, and have not had time to do any reviews of the last 13 books in the series, but it was because I wanted to read the next book... And that's what I've done, finished one, gave it 5 stars and then downloaded the next one.
It has been a joy and pleasure to read all these books in one sitting.
If a book can make you gasp, then you know you're on a winner.
If a book makes you shout out.... You know you have to read the next book
When you get to the end, and you feel a little sad because there are no more, you start searching everything the author had written.
So I'm left to say Thank you Mr Boyd, and I will start my search now 🤗
February 16, 2025
This is part of a series, but the first I have read. I liked the style and would read more in this series for sure. This was a rather strange (and complicated) mystery and I did enjoy it. I didn’t find it hard to put down until about half way through when it started to pick up speed. An old man is murdered in his home but it appears to be natural until one looks closer and realizes that it wasn’t the first murder. The detective had a great mind and was a fun sleuth to watch. Even if there was a time or two when he said “it all can only mean one thing” and I wasn’t sure what that thing was. The narrator did a good job bringing this story to life.
October 28, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ From the Ashes by Damien Boyd
An Excellent Story That Delivers From Beginning to End!
From the Ashes is another outstanding crime thriller from Damien Boyd, delivering an excellent story that draws you in and keeps you invested throughout. Boyd has a real talent for crafting British crime fiction that combines an intriguing mystery, compelling characters, and an investigation that keeps you turning the pages. This is exactly the sort of book that reminds me why I enjoy this series so much.
📚 The Review
What makes this novel such an excellent read is the storytelling. Damien Boyd knows how to build a compelling crime narrative, gradually developing the mystery while keeping the reader interested in what comes next. The plot has enough twists, tension, and unanswered questions to maintain your curiosity, making it difficult to put the book down once you become invested in the investigation.
The writing is engaging, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the overall narrative demonstrates the author's ability to make a crime investigation feel both compelling and believable. Rather than relying solely on shock value, Boyd builds his story around the mystery itself, allowing the investigation and its revelations to drive the experience.
One of the strongest aspects of Boyd's writing is his ability to keep readers connected to the characters. Their involvement in the investigation adds another dimension to the story, while the unfolding events maintain the tension and encourage you to keep reading. The combination of a strong central mystery and effective storytelling makes this a thoroughly satisfying crime thriller.
I particularly appreciate how Boyd delivers a story that feels purposeful and engaging. There is a real sense of anticipation as the investigation develops, and the desire to discover the truth keeps you invested in the outcome. For fans of British police procedurals and detective fiction, this is precisely the sort of storytelling that makes a series worth following.
✅ Pros
Excellent storytelling: A compelling narrative that keeps you interested and invested in the mystery.
Engaging crime investigation: The investigative element provides the foundation for a satisfying crime thriller.
Strong reader engagement: The story gives you plenty of reasons to keep turning the pages.
Effective suspense: The developing mystery maintains your curiosity about how events will unfold.
Enjoyable British crime fiction: Boyd delivers the kind of crime thriller that fans of the genre will appreciate.
A satisfying reading experience: The combination of plot, characters, and suspense makes this a rewarding installment.
Consistent quality: Another excellent reason to keep returning to Damien Boyd's books.
❌ Cons
The story ends too soon: When a crime thriller is this enjoyable, you naturally want more.
Readers may want more character development: Those who particularly enjoy exploring the personal lives and backgrounds of the characters might appreciate additional depth in certain areas.
Not ideal for readers seeking a different genre: This is a book best suited to readers who enjoy investigative crime fiction and police procedurals.
These are minor considerations rather than serious flaws, and they do little to diminish the overall enjoyment of the novel.
⭐ Final Verdict: Five Stars!
From the Ashes is an excellent story and another thoroughly enjoyable read from Damien Boyd. With engaging storytelling, a compelling mystery, and the qualities that make British crime fiction so addictive, this novel delivers an experience that deserves five stars.
Damien Boyd continues to demonstrate why he is such an enjoyable author for crime-fiction fans. He understands how to draw readers into a story, maintain their interest, and make them want to keep reading. That ability is what separates a merely decent crime novel from one that leaves you satisfied when you reach the end.
If you enjoy British crime thrillers, police investigations, and mysteries that keep you invested in the outcome, From the Ashes is well worth reading.
Five stars without hesitation! Another excellent story from Damien Boyd and a fantastic addition to his crime-fiction catalogue.
An Excellent Story That Delivers From Beginning to End!
From the Ashes is another outstanding crime thriller from Damien Boyd, delivering an excellent story that draws you in and keeps you invested throughout. Boyd has a real talent for crafting British crime fiction that combines an intriguing mystery, compelling characters, and an investigation that keeps you turning the pages. This is exactly the sort of book that reminds me why I enjoy this series so much.
📚 The Review
What makes this novel such an excellent read is the storytelling. Damien Boyd knows how to build a compelling crime narrative, gradually developing the mystery while keeping the reader interested in what comes next. The plot has enough twists, tension, and unanswered questions to maintain your curiosity, making it difficult to put the book down once you become invested in the investigation.
The writing is engaging, the pacing keeps the story moving, and the overall narrative demonstrates the author's ability to make a crime investigation feel both compelling and believable. Rather than relying solely on shock value, Boyd builds his story around the mystery itself, allowing the investigation and its revelations to drive the experience.
One of the strongest aspects of Boyd's writing is his ability to keep readers connected to the characters. Their involvement in the investigation adds another dimension to the story, while the unfolding events maintain the tension and encourage you to keep reading. The combination of a strong central mystery and effective storytelling makes this a thoroughly satisfying crime thriller.
I particularly appreciate how Boyd delivers a story that feels purposeful and engaging. There is a real sense of anticipation as the investigation develops, and the desire to discover the truth keeps you invested in the outcome. For fans of British police procedurals and detective fiction, this is precisely the sort of storytelling that makes a series worth following.
✅ Pros
Excellent storytelling: A compelling narrative that keeps you interested and invested in the mystery.
Engaging crime investigation: The investigative element provides the foundation for a satisfying crime thriller.
Strong reader engagement: The story gives you plenty of reasons to keep turning the pages.
Effective suspense: The developing mystery maintains your curiosity about how events will unfold.
Enjoyable British crime fiction: Boyd delivers the kind of crime thriller that fans of the genre will appreciate.
A satisfying reading experience: The combination of plot, characters, and suspense makes this a rewarding installment.
Consistent quality: Another excellent reason to keep returning to Damien Boyd's books.
❌ Cons
The story ends too soon: When a crime thriller is this enjoyable, you naturally want more.
Readers may want more character development: Those who particularly enjoy exploring the personal lives and backgrounds of the characters might appreciate additional depth in certain areas.
Not ideal for readers seeking a different genre: This is a book best suited to readers who enjoy investigative crime fiction and police procedurals.
These are minor considerations rather than serious flaws, and they do little to diminish the overall enjoyment of the novel.
⭐ Final Verdict: Five Stars!
From the Ashes is an excellent story and another thoroughly enjoyable read from Damien Boyd. With engaging storytelling, a compelling mystery, and the qualities that make British crime fiction so addictive, this novel delivers an experience that deserves five stars.
Damien Boyd continues to demonstrate why he is such an enjoyable author for crime-fiction fans. He understands how to draw readers into a story, maintain their interest, and make them want to keep reading. That ability is what separates a merely decent crime novel from one that leaves you satisfied when you reach the end.
If you enjoy British crime thrillers, police investigations, and mysteries that keep you invested in the outcome, From the Ashes is well worth reading.
Five stars without hesitation! Another excellent story from Damien Boyd and a fantastic addition to his crime-fiction catalogue.
June 16, 2024
Okay for a quick read. As it is one of a series the characters are familiar which makes it a comfortable read. The ending was a bit complicated.
June 21, 2024
I can’t get enough of this series. I’ve loved them all. The twists in this one are again fantastic.
Please keep the series going.
Please keep the series going.
June 7, 2024
Wow. Another stellar entry in an outstanding series. When you think about it, that is truly exceptional. Book 14 and still going strong.
From the start, while I did enjoy book one, what had me grabbing the next was how much I liked Nick and Jane. They're smart, down to earth, loyal and brave... and their relationship is chef's kiss. Now here we are, book 14, and somehow I like them even better. To avoid spoilers, I'll just say... please get on with it already, Mr. Boyd. ;)
Back to my review. This is one of my very favorite crime series. The mysteries are smart, complex and interesting and the supporting characters solid and well-developed. Basically, everything you could want in a crime thriller. I'm already dreading the long wait to #15!
All this to say, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and series.
Opinions are 100% mine, but shout out to the publisher for the goodreads giveaway. I was thrilled to win a book from a series I love!
From the start, while I did enjoy book one, what had me grabbing the next was how much I liked Nick and Jane. They're smart, down to earth, loyal and brave... and their relationship is chef's kiss. Now here we are, book 14, and somehow I like them even better. To avoid spoilers, I'll just say... please get on with it already, Mr. Boyd. ;)
Back to my review. This is one of my very favorite crime series. The mysteries are smart, complex and interesting and the supporting characters solid and well-developed. Basically, everything you could want in a crime thriller. I'm already dreading the long wait to #15!
All this to say, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book and series.
Opinions are 100% mine, but shout out to the publisher for the goodreads giveaway. I was thrilled to win a book from a series I love!
January 1, 2026
Better than the last one
June 5, 2024
best yet
Series so often go downhill but not in this case. A brilliant read. Thoroughly enjoyed every page and as believable as ever
Series so often go downhill but not in this case. A brilliant read. Thoroughly enjoyed every page and as believable as ever
October 17, 2024
I’m starting to wonder whether the only reason I find these books palatable is them all being set in and around where I grew up, live and know well! I couldn’t help but feel the ending and big reveal was again just a bit lazy this time, all spilling out rather than being particularly satisfying! There were a-ha moments sprinkled throughout though, which kept me going; it is just frustrating when all that build up crumbles apart underwhelmingly! Anyway, what this has hopefully achieved is putting my brain back into reading gear, after possibly the most prolonged hiatus since records began, thanks to a long and arduous wait for my final exam result!
May 26, 2025
Nick Dixon soon finds himself promoted to Superintendent and then has a series of murders linked to a Bridge Tournament over twenty years ago. Usual characters interupted by an incompetent Sergeant from Cornwall and Devon police. All ends up in a shootout with characters you did not expect involved. Very good competent story. 3 stars.
August 2, 2024
I love the characters and their stories. Good storyline enjoyed reading.
December 28, 2024
Up there as a contender for book of the series.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of the case, which unravelled the past from over two decades ago.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of the case, which unravelled the past from over two decades ago.
February 9, 2026
actual rating 3.5⭐
June 19, 2024
another goodie
A thoroughly enjoyable romp across Somerset and Devon. Love following the lives of Nick, Jane, Monty and the rest of the crew, plus the never ending round of villains that they are forever chasing.
Looking forward to the next one with a mew arrival in the Dixon household hopefully.
A thoroughly enjoyable romp across Somerset and Devon. Love following the lives of Nick, Jane, Monty and the rest of the crew, plus the never ending round of villains that they are forever chasing.
Looking forward to the next one with a mew arrival in the Dixon household hopefully.
June 19, 2024
Just so good
Now we have to wait for the next one!!!!! Will Jayne have had her baby? Will Sarah and Nige be ok? How long till the next book? What another brilliant read. To think this series is 10 years old, and has kept a really good pace. I would thoroughly recommend this series to everyone.
Now we have to wait for the next one!!!!! Will Jayne have had her baby? Will Sarah and Nige be ok? How long till the next book? What another brilliant read. To think this series is 10 years old, and has kept a really good pace. I would thoroughly recommend this series to everyone.
June 15, 2024
superb
An excellent read, riveting from start to finish.
I thought I had worked out who had done it part way through - I was wrong - and was surprised at the end.
I have read every book in order from #1 all the way to #14. Every one superb and every one a book that once you start reading, you can’t put down.
I would recommend starting with the first book in the series if you can, as the characters develop book by book.
10/10 top marks - it’s an excellent read. 👍
An excellent read, riveting from start to finish.
I thought I had worked out who had done it part way through - I was wrong - and was surprised at the end.
I have read every book in order from #1 all the way to #14. Every one superb and every one a book that once you start reading, you can’t put down.
I would recommend starting with the first book in the series if you can, as the characters develop book by book.
10/10 top marks - it’s an excellent read. 👍
June 15, 2024
Nick Dixon is Boyd's superhero DCI (acting Superintendent as of this novel.) He survives all sorts of encounters that would have James Bond crying for time out.
That being said I thought this one may well be Boyd's best novel. The pacing, dialogue and timing were all terrific.
If you like Brit procedurals you need to check out the Nick Dixon novels.
That being said I thought this one may well be Boyd's best novel. The pacing, dialogue and timing were all terrific.
If you like Brit procedurals you need to check out the Nick Dixon novels.
June 17, 2024
Excellent as always
This book drew you in from the start. Could not put it down. Well written and very informative to all details.
Not one thing I didn't dislike. Waiting for next one please.
This book drew you in from the start. Could not put it down. Well written and very informative to all details.
Not one thing I didn't dislike. Waiting for next one please.
June 12, 2024
Nick Dixon at his best
Damien Boyd continues to produce pacy well written stories featuring the familiar cast of DCI Nick Dixon and friends. A cleverly woven plot keeps the reader guessing to the last chapters. Good boy Monty the staffie is Nicks trusty companion and his behaviour is typical of the breed, soft, loyal and no longer of wet weather. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Damien Boyd continues to produce pacy well written stories featuring the familiar cast of DCI Nick Dixon and friends. A cleverly woven plot keeps the reader guessing to the last chapters. Good boy Monty the staffie is Nicks trusty companion and his behaviour is typical of the breed, soft, loyal and no longer of wet weather. Looking forward to the next in the series.
June 14, 2024
A long and circuitous route to justice!
What a lot of twists and turns, and even surprises at the end. A great crime adventure with the brilliant Superintndent Dixon at the helm.
Thoroughly enjoyed this latest adventure, and hoping that there will be a further one.
Thanks Damien
What a lot of twists and turns, and even surprises at the end. A great crime adventure with the brilliant Superintndent Dixon at the helm.
Thoroughly enjoyed this latest adventure, and hoping that there will be a further one.
Thanks Damien
June 10, 2024
Yet another great read from Damien Boyd. The Nick Dixon series of books are based in Somerset and have imaginative and exciting storylines. From the Ashes was another triumph and kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end. If you know Somerset, and particularly Burnham and Bridgwater, it adds an extra enjoyment but local insight is definitely not necessary to appreciate the excellent storytelling.
June 11, 2024
Another "rattling good yarn and police procedural".
All set in my part of the world in Somerset which adds to the pleasure (I lived in Puriton as a child and now live in Taunton).
When, oh when, will the BBC or ITV or Channel 4 dramatise these excellent stories given that Vera is coming to an end?
Damian's background in law and prosecutions etc plus being a past native of the area, give real authenticity to each crime thriller. Consistently high standards book by book.
All set in my part of the world in Somerset which adds to the pleasure (I lived in Puriton as a child and now live in Taunton).
When, oh when, will the BBC or ITV or Channel 4 dramatise these excellent stories given that Vera is coming to an end?
Damian's background in law and prosecutions etc plus being a past native of the area, give real authenticity to each crime thriller. Consistently high standards book by book.
June 13, 2024
5 stars
Another excellent book from this author. I couldn't put it down.
I went to St Christopher's at Burnham-on-Sea, but in the 1960s. Yes, I remember the mixed dance classes. Awful.
Another excellent book from this author. I couldn't put it down.
I went to St Christopher's at Burnham-on-Sea, but in the 1960s. Yes, I remember the mixed dance classes. Awful.
March 4, 2025
This was good. But the ending was a bit contrived and unbelievable when trying to tie all the threads together.
June 9, 2024
another brilliant plot from the pen of Damian Boyd
Need to call this a Superintendent Nick Dixon Novel. Wonderfully twisted tale, thoroughly enjoyed and recommended. I hope there are more
Need to call this a Superintendent Nick Dixon Novel. Wonderfully twisted tale, thoroughly enjoyed and recommended. I hope there are more
June 7, 2024
As good as all the rest!
Another great read that I’m sad to see come to an end. A great plot with lots of intertwining threads that only Nick Dixon could possibly pull together. A great cast of characters, with many old favourites and a definite shining star. I can’t wait to see what comes next for Nick, Jane and Monty.
Another great read that I’m sad to see come to an end. A great plot with lots of intertwining threads that only Nick Dixon could possibly pull together. A great cast of characters, with many old favourites and a definite shining star. I can’t wait to see what comes next for Nick, Jane and Monty.
June 8, 2024
Outstanding
I've been patiently waiting for this latest instalment of Nick Dixon's exploits and I wasn't disappointed. Another excellent plot and story line. Can't wait for the next instalment.
I've been patiently waiting for this latest instalment of Nick Dixon's exploits and I wasn't disappointed. Another excellent plot and story line. Can't wait for the next instalment.
June 6, 2024
Really, really good
I don't think there's one of these that I haven't liked, but this is really good. I did guess some of it, but definitely not all of it. This whole series is so well worth reading.
I don't think there's one of these that I haven't liked, but this is really good. I did guess some of it, but definitely not all of it. This whole series is so well worth reading.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews