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DI Tanner #11
Swanton Morley
A CHILLING NORFOLK BROADS CRIME THRILLER!
A body found hidden at the bottom of an open church grave, a suspect running in a local election, and a political opponent, willing to do whatever it takes to win.
Set within the mysterious beauty of the Norfolk Broads, this fast-paced British detective series is a dark cozy Norfolk murder mystery with a slice of humour and a touch of romance, one that will have you guessing until the very end, when the last shocking twist is finally revealed.
Swanton Morley is a totally addictive gripping crime thriller, the eleventh in a chilling series of serial killer books.
A body found hidden at the bottom of an open church grave, a suspect running in a local election, and a political opponent, willing to do whatever it takes to win.
Set within the mysterious beauty of the Norfolk Broads, this fast-paced British detective series is a dark cozy Norfolk murder mystery with a slice of humour and a touch of romance, one that will have you guessing until the very end, when the last shocking twist is finally revealed.
Swanton Morley is a totally addictive gripping crime thriller, the eleventh in a chilling series of serial killer books.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2024
485 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
David Blake
41 books299 followersNO. 1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR
With number one bestsellers in both the UK and Australia, to date David has written twenty-two books along with a collection of short stories. He's currently working on his twenty-third, Bluebell Wood, which is the next in his series of fast-paced crime thrillers. When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where his crime fiction books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
www.david-blake.co.uk/CONTACTDAVID
With number one bestsellers in both the UK and Australia, to date David has written twenty-two books along with a collection of short stories. He's currently working on his twenty-third, Bluebell Wood, which is the next in his series of fast-paced crime thrillers. When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where his crime fiction books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
www.david-blake.co.uk/CONTACTDAVID
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 23, 2024
mundane & predictable
Nothing like the first few books. Like so many authors now feel that later books being churned out, whereas the first in the series were well thought out and had care and attention placed on them
Nothing like the first few books. Like so many authors now feel that later books being churned out, whereas the first in the series were well thought out and had care and attention placed on them
April 18, 2025
I thought he was a DCI but never mind. I’m struggling with Tanner, the first few books were really good and the characters really worked. I don’t understand his relationship with the Superintendent as he’s his best man one minute and then treating him like an idiot later. Tanner must be the most incompetent, insubordinate Chief Inspector ever. I’ll finish the series but rapidly running out of patience with his inappropriate sarcasm. Perhaps that’s the skill of the writer but to me it doesn’t hang together.
April 1, 2024
Poor compared to the rest of the series
I've read all 11 books in the series and there was a lot more detective work done in the previous books, especially with his former partner, Jane. I'm not sure why the team didn't do a full background check on how Elliston's daughter had really died, they gave a car accident but then admitted this wasn't true. Poor procedural work in the past few books, perhaps the series needs to end.
I've read all 11 books in the series and there was a lot more detective work done in the previous books, especially with his former partner, Jane. I'm not sure why the team didn't do a full background check on how Elliston's daughter had really died, they gave a car accident but then admitted this wasn't true. Poor procedural work in the past few books, perhaps the series needs to end.
April 24, 2024
It’s the first time I’d read a David Blake novel, but was drawn to it because his novels are set in one of my favourite counties - Norfolk.
I got a great image of DCI John Tanner right from the off and all of his team. The story was the usual cop/ detective novel but there was a twist at the end. Was it hidden for plain sight no not really but it helped towards its four star review.
It is a Peter James Roy Grace novel? Definitely not, it doesn’t have the twists and turns in it. Was it easy reading? Definitely; perfect as a holiday read, although you it won’t last you the whole two weeks of your vacay!
I got a great image of DCI John Tanner right from the off and all of his team. The story was the usual cop/ detective novel but there was a twist at the end. Was it hidden for plain sight no not really but it helped towards its four star review.
It is a Peter James Roy Grace novel? Definitely not, it doesn’t have the twists and turns in it. Was it easy reading? Definitely; perfect as a holiday read, although you it won’t last you the whole two weeks of your vacay!
September 8, 2024
Could be better
Don't like inaccuracies, babies less than a week old do not smile, River Stour does not form border between Suffolk and Norfolk, Harwich is in Essex, border is between Suffolk and Essex, not difficult to fact check that.
Don't like inaccuracies, babies less than a week old do not smile, River Stour does not form border between Suffolk and Norfolk, Harwich is in Essex, border is between Suffolk and Essex, not difficult to fact check that.
September 29, 2025
Excellent Book, Highly Recommend
From the very first pages, Swanton Morley thrusts you into a gripping web of murder, politics, and personal struggle—and it never lets go. This is crime fiction at its most compelling, with just the right mix of tension, character, and atmosphere.
What Works Brilliantly
1. A sympathetic, complex protagonist
DCI John Tanner is freshly returned from honeymoon, with a newborn daughter in tow. Blake handles Tanner’s exhaustion, emotional vulnerability, and dogged determination with great skill. His internal conflicts feel real, his missteps believable, and his loyalty to his team deeply human.
2. Strong supporting cast & relationships
Tanner’s team—his colleagues, suspects, local figures—are not just names on a page. Each has quirks and motivations. The interactions crackle with tension and wit, and the rapport among investigators feels earned, not forced.
3. Superb plotting & surprising twists
Just when you feel you’ve got the case pegged, Blake pulls the rug out from under you. False leads, shifting alliances, and misdirection keep the suspense alive to the last chapter. The final chase and reveal are memorable.
4. Sense of place & setting
The Norfolk Broads and the village of Swanton Morley come alive through atmospheric descriptions—fog, mud, marshes, quiet churchyards. Blake evokes the region not just as backdrop but as a character in its own right.
5. Balance of darkness and levity
While the subject matter gets serious (murder, cover-ups, moral ambiguity), Blake injects moments of dry humour, human warmth, and ironic observation. These provide welcome breathing space without undercutting the tension. Reviewers have praised how the book swings between “hilarity to high drama.”
6. Excellent narration (for the audiobook)
Jonathan Keeble brings the cast to life, differentiating voices and pacing with precision. His interpretation adds depth and helps sustain momentum over long listening sessions.
Minor Quibbles (That Don’t Diminish the Enjoyment)
At times, descriptive passages become a little heavy with detail—some readers may feel the prose lags before the next reveal.
If you're jumping into this as your first Tanner novel, there are hints and callbacks to earlier cases that you may miss. But Blake does a solid job of making the plot accessible.
A few transitional scenes feel slower than necessary, but they serve to deepen character or setting, so it’s a trade-off many will accept.
Verdict
Swanton Morley is a standout entry in the DCI Tanner series—taut, emotionally resonant, and full of surprises. It's as much a character-driven journey as it is a murder mystery, with enough twists and atmosphere to satisfy any fan of British crime fiction.
If you enjoy procedural mysteries with heart, moral ambiguity, and a strong sense of place, this is a must-read (or must-listen). I’ll be diving into more of Blake’s Tanner novels without hesitation. High recommend!
From the very first pages, Swanton Morley thrusts you into a gripping web of murder, politics, and personal struggle—and it never lets go. This is crime fiction at its most compelling, with just the right mix of tension, character, and atmosphere.
What Works Brilliantly
1. A sympathetic, complex protagonist
DCI John Tanner is freshly returned from honeymoon, with a newborn daughter in tow. Blake handles Tanner’s exhaustion, emotional vulnerability, and dogged determination with great skill. His internal conflicts feel real, his missteps believable, and his loyalty to his team deeply human.
2. Strong supporting cast & relationships
Tanner’s team—his colleagues, suspects, local figures—are not just names on a page. Each has quirks and motivations. The interactions crackle with tension and wit, and the rapport among investigators feels earned, not forced.
3. Superb plotting & surprising twists
Just when you feel you’ve got the case pegged, Blake pulls the rug out from under you. False leads, shifting alliances, and misdirection keep the suspense alive to the last chapter. The final chase and reveal are memorable.
4. Sense of place & setting
The Norfolk Broads and the village of Swanton Morley come alive through atmospheric descriptions—fog, mud, marshes, quiet churchyards. Blake evokes the region not just as backdrop but as a character in its own right.
5. Balance of darkness and levity
While the subject matter gets serious (murder, cover-ups, moral ambiguity), Blake injects moments of dry humour, human warmth, and ironic observation. These provide welcome breathing space without undercutting the tension. Reviewers have praised how the book swings between “hilarity to high drama.”
6. Excellent narration (for the audiobook)
Jonathan Keeble brings the cast to life, differentiating voices and pacing with precision. His interpretation adds depth and helps sustain momentum over long listening sessions.
Minor Quibbles (That Don’t Diminish the Enjoyment)
At times, descriptive passages become a little heavy with detail—some readers may feel the prose lags before the next reveal.
If you're jumping into this as your first Tanner novel, there are hints and callbacks to earlier cases that you may miss. But Blake does a solid job of making the plot accessible.
A few transitional scenes feel slower than necessary, but they serve to deepen character or setting, so it’s a trade-off many will accept.
Verdict
Swanton Morley is a standout entry in the DCI Tanner series—taut, emotionally resonant, and full of surprises. It's as much a character-driven journey as it is a murder mystery, with enough twists and atmosphere to satisfy any fan of British crime fiction.
If you enjoy procedural mysteries with heart, moral ambiguity, and a strong sense of place, this is a must-read (or must-listen). I’ll be diving into more of Blake’s Tanner novels without hesitation. High recommend!
September 22, 2024
David Blake’s “Swanton Morley” is the eleventh instalment in the DI Tanner Norfolk Broads Murder Mystery Series. Set against the picturesque yet eerie backdrop of the Norfolk Broads, this novel is a gripping addition to the series, blending elements of crime, mystery, and a touch of romance.
The story kicks off with the discovery of a body hidden in an open church grave. DI Tanner, returning from his honeymoon with a baby in tow, is immediately thrust into the investigation. The initial suspect is a man running for a local election, but as the plot unfolds, Tanner finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and personal vendettas. The narrative is fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Tanner navigates through clues and red herrings to uncover the truth.
DI Tanner is portrayed as a dedicated and astute detective, balancing his professional responsibilities with his new personal life. His character is relatable, and readers can empathize with his struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters, DS Vicky Gilbert, Superintendent Forrester, Tanner’s colleagues and the suspects, are equally well-crafted, each adding depth and complexity to the story.
Blake’s depiction of the Norfolk Broads is both vivid and atmospheric. The serene yet haunting landscape serves as a perfect backdrop for the dark and twisted events that unfold. The author’s descriptive writing immerses readers in the setting, making them feel as though they are right there with Tanner, navigating the winding waterways and foggy marshes.
“Swanton Morley” explores several themes, including justice, political corruption, and the impact of personal choices. The political subplot adds an interesting layer to the narrative, highlighting the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve power. The theme of justice is central to the story, as Tanner strives to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrator to justice.
David Blake’s writing style is engaging and accessible. He masterfully balances suspense and humour, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and enjoyable. The dialogue is natural and believable, and the pacing is well-maintained throughout the book. Blake’s ability to weave intricate plots with unexpected twists keeps readers hooked until the very end.
“Swanton Morley” is a compelling addition to the DI Tanner series. It offers a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and character-driven storytelling. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and new readers will find it an excellent entry point into the world of DI Tanner. With its well-crafted plot, memorable characters, and atmospheric setting, “Swanton Morley” is a must-read for crime thriller enthusiasts.
The story kicks off with the discovery of a body hidden in an open church grave. DI Tanner, returning from his honeymoon with a baby in tow, is immediately thrust into the investigation. The initial suspect is a man running for a local election, but as the plot unfolds, Tanner finds himself entangled in a web of political intrigue and personal vendettas. The narrative is fast-paced, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Tanner navigates through clues and red herrings to uncover the truth.
DI Tanner is portrayed as a dedicated and astute detective, balancing his professional responsibilities with his new personal life. His character is relatable, and readers can empathize with his struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters, DS Vicky Gilbert, Superintendent Forrester, Tanner’s colleagues and the suspects, are equally well-crafted, each adding depth and complexity to the story.
Blake’s depiction of the Norfolk Broads is both vivid and atmospheric. The serene yet haunting landscape serves as a perfect backdrop for the dark and twisted events that unfold. The author’s descriptive writing immerses readers in the setting, making them feel as though they are right there with Tanner, navigating the winding waterways and foggy marshes.
“Swanton Morley” explores several themes, including justice, political corruption, and the impact of personal choices. The political subplot adds an interesting layer to the narrative, highlighting the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve power. The theme of justice is central to the story, as Tanner strives to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrator to justice.
David Blake’s writing style is engaging and accessible. He masterfully balances suspense and humour, creating a narrative that is both thrilling and enjoyable. The dialogue is natural and believable, and the pacing is well-maintained throughout the book. Blake’s ability to weave intricate plots with unexpected twists keeps readers hooked until the very end.
“Swanton Morley” is a compelling addition to the DI Tanner series. It offers a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and character-driven storytelling. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and new readers will find it an excellent entry point into the world of DI Tanner. With its well-crafted plot, memorable characters, and atmospheric setting, “Swanton Morley” is a must-read for crime thriller enthusiasts.
March 6, 2024
I love DCI Tanner books and this one is no exception, I read it in just three days.
I feel that I know Tanner having read all of the series so far. We have seen him through the loss of his daughter and starting over in a new town moving away from London and the Met (perhaps before he was corrupted). We have seen him start a new relationship only to see his new romance dashed when she was murdered in a street crime. Then he goes missing around the world on his boat to re-find himself before returning to Norfolk. We are with him when he starts another relationship which is so successful he marries Christine in the last book. Now we find him a new Father as he enters his forty's and wondering if he can cope being a new Dad and a senior police officer. Yes I feel I know John Tanner fairly well.
It bodes well then that this book is very much a continuation of his voyage through life, and yet another mystery to solve. This time there are political motives, perhaps? Savage murders with confusion around the evidence being collected. As usual Tanner with long suffering sidekick DS Vicky Gilbert are skirting process and procedures (maybe the Met has taken its toll) and in trouble with Superintendent Forrester. As always seems the case the investigation has attracted huge media coverage and Tanner may have made a fatal error in judgement this time.
To add to his problems changes are afoot at the station and Tanner finds himself in a difficult situation torn by his responsibilities to family and split loyalties towards his colleagues. In addition, thanks to baby Samantha he is getting no sleep. It's a wonder the case gets solved, but needless to say is does.
I found it difficult to fault anything about the book or the authors ability to capture the various characters so well. I love this series so much and desperately wanted to give it five stars and perhaps I should. The only thing that held me back was I had worked out who did the killings when I read the layby scene and guessed roughly the motive long before it was revealed. Perhaps I'm beginning to know Tanner and David Blake's writing too well. If that's the case it's no bad thing. The book and the whole series are brilliant as is the writing of David Blake. Awesome - should have given it five stars...
I feel that I know Tanner having read all of the series so far. We have seen him through the loss of his daughter and starting over in a new town moving away from London and the Met (perhaps before he was corrupted). We have seen him start a new relationship only to see his new romance dashed when she was murdered in a street crime. Then he goes missing around the world on his boat to re-find himself before returning to Norfolk. We are with him when he starts another relationship which is so successful he marries Christine in the last book. Now we find him a new Father as he enters his forty's and wondering if he can cope being a new Dad and a senior police officer. Yes I feel I know John Tanner fairly well.
It bodes well then that this book is very much a continuation of his voyage through life, and yet another mystery to solve. This time there are political motives, perhaps? Savage murders with confusion around the evidence being collected. As usual Tanner with long suffering sidekick DS Vicky Gilbert are skirting process and procedures (maybe the Met has taken its toll) and in trouble with Superintendent Forrester. As always seems the case the investigation has attracted huge media coverage and Tanner may have made a fatal error in judgement this time.
To add to his problems changes are afoot at the station and Tanner finds himself in a difficult situation torn by his responsibilities to family and split loyalties towards his colleagues. In addition, thanks to baby Samantha he is getting no sleep. It's a wonder the case gets solved, but needless to say is does.
I found it difficult to fault anything about the book or the authors ability to capture the various characters so well. I love this series so much and desperately wanted to give it five stars and perhaps I should. The only thing that held me back was I had worked out who did the killings when I read the layby scene and guessed roughly the motive long before it was revealed. Perhaps I'm beginning to know Tanner and David Blake's writing too well. If that's the case it's no bad thing. The book and the whole series are brilliant as is the writing of David Blake. Awesome - should have given it five stars...
May 20, 2024
4.5🌟
I genrally enjoy all types of psychological thrillers, and this detective novel is one that is right up there with this genre, although it is also within its own right, something different. I haven't had the pleasure of reading or listening to the rest of the series. However, this didn't change or alter my experience of this book as it can be read as a stand alone imo.
Detective Tanner has the type of nature you automatically feel like you know him, you can understand his work and his team, also there were some humourous parts along the way of what was a serious gripping novel. The story explores the murders of people who appear on a list high profile names who are on some way shape or form aligned with pedophilia this is what ultimately shapes the full nature of this story with various twists and turns of corruption, sadness, grief and in occasion graphic content.
With all this being said, it was very well written without being extremely triggering, in which some of these types of topics can be to a reader. The message was clear, concise, precise, and not predictable ending, which was very well thought out and captured as if it were all happening in real time as a detective team would be at work.
Narrated well with poignancy, easy listening, and capturing each character as they appeared to be. All in all, really no criticism other than the book description mentions romance, which I failed to find in this particular edition of the series.
A huge thank you to W.F. Howes Ltd & Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an open & honest review.
I genrally enjoy all types of psychological thrillers, and this detective novel is one that is right up there with this genre, although it is also within its own right, something different. I haven't had the pleasure of reading or listening to the rest of the series. However, this didn't change or alter my experience of this book as it can be read as a stand alone imo.
Detective Tanner has the type of nature you automatically feel like you know him, you can understand his work and his team, also there were some humourous parts along the way of what was a serious gripping novel. The story explores the murders of people who appear on a list high profile names who are on some way shape or form aligned with pedophilia this is what ultimately shapes the full nature of this story with various twists and turns of corruption, sadness, grief and in occasion graphic content.
With all this being said, it was very well written without being extremely triggering, in which some of these types of topics can be to a reader. The message was clear, concise, precise, and not predictable ending, which was very well thought out and captured as if it were all happening in real time as a detective team would be at work.
Narrated well with poignancy, easy listening, and capturing each character as they appeared to be. All in all, really no criticism other than the book description mentions romance, which I failed to find in this particular edition of the series.
A huge thank you to W.F. Howes Ltd & Netgalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an open & honest review.
May 31, 2024
Swanton Morley (DI Tanner #11) by David Blake and narrated by Jonathan Keeble was at once shocking and hilarious in its quick wit and tumultuous twists. I was completely side-swiped as, from the prologue, I was expecting something utterly different, but as each chapter went by, I liked it more and more and more
Tanner is a likable protagonist, not least for his adoration of his new baby daughter, but his wry humour, loyalty to his team, ability to accept his mistakes and relatability. David Blake has created a cast of highly entertaining characters, and the twists of the story take you from hilarity to high drama, to shock, to pondering what on earth just happened.
You think you have it all worked out, but then Blake gives a resounding "Nuh-uh!" and another path of investigations is followed (the final chase with the villain is the stuff of legend. The situation and location of the final confrontation is so suited to the wry humour of the novel that I was chuckling despite the events)
Jonathan Keeble is the perfect narrator for this audiobook, each character having a clear and defined personality
DCI Tanner mysteries are going straight on to my tbr. Highly enjoyable, thrilling and hilarious all at once
Thank you to Netgalley, W.F. Howes Ltd, the author David Blake and narrator Jonathan Keeble for this ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
Tanner is a likable protagonist, not least for his adoration of his new baby daughter, but his wry humour, loyalty to his team, ability to accept his mistakes and relatability. David Blake has created a cast of highly entertaining characters, and the twists of the story take you from hilarity to high drama, to shock, to pondering what on earth just happened.
You think you have it all worked out, but then Blake gives a resounding "Nuh-uh!" and another path of investigations is followed (the final chase with the villain is the stuff of legend. The situation and location of the final confrontation is so suited to the wry humour of the novel that I was chuckling despite the events)
Jonathan Keeble is the perfect narrator for this audiobook, each character having a clear and defined personality
DCI Tanner mysteries are going straight on to my tbr. Highly enjoyable, thrilling and hilarious all at once
Thank you to Netgalley, W.F. Howes Ltd, the author David Blake and narrator Jonathan Keeble for this ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own
June 1, 2024
Swanton Morley is book eleven in the DI Tanner series by David Blake. Detective Chief Inspector Tanner caught several cases on his first day back from his honeymoon. One was the murder of a person found in Swanton Morley Church graveyard, and the other was the case of a local Pedophile's ring around the Norfolk Broads. Will these two cases intertwine, or will Detective Chief Inspector Tanner's team be investigating both instances? The readers will continue to follow Detective Chief Inspector Tanner's investigation to discover what happens.
Swanton Morley is another fantastic book by David Blake and an excellent addition to this beautiful series. I was looking forward to reading it, and I was not disappointed. I was engaged with it from the first page and continued reading this book until the end. I loved David Blake's portrayal of his characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Swanton Morley was well-written and researched. I like David Blake's description of the settings of this book, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Swanton Morley will understand the consequences of trauma and grief. Also, the readers learn about new parents' issues with newborns.
I recommend this book.
Swanton Morley is another fantastic book by David Blake and an excellent addition to this beautiful series. I was looking forward to reading it, and I was not disappointed. I was engaged with it from the first page and continued reading this book until the end. I loved David Blake's portrayal of his characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Swanton Morley was well-written and researched. I like David Blake's description of the settings of this book, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Swanton Morley will understand the consequences of trauma and grief. Also, the readers learn about new parents' issues with newborns.
I recommend this book.
May 3, 2024
I requested this arc without realising it was part of a series, I’d not usually be a fan of beginning so far in, however DCI Tanner is written so well that I felt easily acquainted with him and his team. The story was such that I definitely felt it worked as a standalone. I am intrigued to read the others though.
Swanton Morley was excellent. Full of intrigue as the team work towards catching a serial killer whose victims are all named as child sex offenders to the press. Lots of twists and turns and a blow your socks off ending that I did not see coming.
Excellent writing, and the narration was absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend it.
With special thanks to W.F Howes Ltd via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
Swanton Morley was excellent. Full of intrigue as the team work towards catching a serial killer whose victims are all named as child sex offenders to the press. Lots of twists and turns and a blow your socks off ending that I did not see coming.
Excellent writing, and the narration was absolutely superb. I’d highly recommend it.
With special thanks to W.F Howes Ltd via NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
May 21, 2024
DI Tanner returns from his honeymoon together with a new born baby, so on returning to work he could have done without a body being found in an open grave. He will have his work cut out as more deaths occur and potential culprits are elusive.
I really enjoyed every minute of this book, well written and well narrated (I listened to the audiobook). Great characters in this crime novel, that has plenty of humour in it too. Well paced and plenty of twists, but can the correct murderer be found? Read to find out.
I really enjoyed every minute of this book, well written and well narrated (I listened to the audiobook). Great characters in this crime novel, that has plenty of humour in it too. Well paced and plenty of twists, but can the correct murderer be found? Read to find out.
February 25, 2024
I've been following this series since it started and I always look forward to reading the next. A man is found dead in an open grave and another gives himself up to the police, carrying a bloodstained knife and saying 'I didn't do it!' The team has to sort this out, with Tanner sleep deprived and occasionally marked with baby sick! I love Vicky (DI) and felt she was a star in this story. The ending is tremendous and signals a follow up. Loved it.
February 28, 2024
What goings on in Swanton Morley !!!
Since like most fans of DCI Tanner, we've waited for this latest episode to make its debut, and if I'm honest I'm definitely not disappointed, great mix of various characters and story lines, twists and turns and an interesting ending, give the bloke a break !!!! But that doesn't seem to happen to John Tanner , roll on the next episode please
Since like most fans of DCI Tanner, we've waited for this latest episode to make its debut, and if I'm honest I'm definitely not disappointed, great mix of various characters and story lines, twists and turns and an interesting ending, give the bloke a break !!!! But that doesn't seem to happen to John Tanner , roll on the next episode please
June 12, 2024
DI Tanner is back from his honeymoon and is catapulted straight into a new case when a body is found in an open grave in Swanton Morley, and another man hands himself in to the police carrying a knife but swearing he didn't kill anyone. Tanner and his team have to work hard to sort out the mystery. The book is well written and entertaining and the characters are realistic and continue to develop with the series.
The book is brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Jonathan Keeble.
The book is brilliantly narrated by the wonderful Jonathan Keeble.
May 4, 2024
I read the first novel in this series and this audiobook made me go and get the rest of the series as it's a well plotted and gripping story that kept me guessing.
Well developed and interesting characters, a solid mystery
I liked the voice of the narrator and how they read the story
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well developed and interesting characters, a solid mystery
I liked the voice of the narrator and how they read the story
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 5, 2025
Am I being mean by giving only a 3 star rating? Probably, for me there are too many gags supposedly banter throughout. The killers and motives were telegraphed very early. Although attempts were made to point elsewhere, you knew DI Tanner would know the truth and an antihero ending was suspected as the pages wore on. It is still a fine read from a good author and I continue to follow the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
D.I Tanner in a spin
D I Tanned returns to work after his holiday to a brisket murder.
The tale twists and turns in an exciting way, so you want to keep reading.
David Blake's characters are well-written you want to be involved with them.
I enjoyed this immensely. It would make a good TV series.
D I Tanned returns to work after his holiday to a brisket murder.
The tale twists and turns in an exciting way, so you want to keep reading.
David Blake's characters are well-written you want to be involved with them.
I enjoyed this immensely. It would make a good TV series.
September 22, 2025
Getting through this series via Libby library collection so mercifully not having to directly pay for the books.
The narrator Jonathan Keeble does excellent voice work with increasingly mediocre material as the series progresses.
The banter just doesn't work anymore, and please! enough with the coffee consumption. Same for the rum....
The narrator Jonathan Keeble does excellent voice work with increasingly mediocre material as the series progresses.
The banter just doesn't work anymore, and please! enough with the coffee consumption. Same for the rum....
February 26, 2024
Stanton Morley
As expected, another brilliantly written book with great twists & turns. I couldn’t put it down. Living in Norfolk myself, makes the story even more alive and exciting.
As expected, another brilliantly written book with great twists & turns. I couldn’t put it down. Living in Norfolk myself, makes the story even more alive and exciting.
February 29, 2024
Great read
Yet another murder solved but in difficult circumstances as it leaves questions in John's
mind as to how he is going to tell his colleagues who the real suspect was and how the closing of one of the police stations is going to effect his staff.
Yet another murder solved but in difficult circumstances as it leaves questions in John's
mind as to how he is going to tell his colleagues who the real suspect was and how the closing of one of the police stations is going to effect his staff.
March 26, 2024
Don't give up
In the beginning it seems too complicated to be able to follow the plot . I nearly gave up on it BUT stay with it. A clever plot with a very surprising twist at the end
In the beginning it seems too complicated to be able to follow the plot . I nearly gave up on it BUT stay with it. A clever plot with a very surprising twist at the end
April 1, 2024
Real human police vs murders and paedophiles
All in the British districts.
Multiple murders,serial paedophiles,mysterious list and the usual surprise engines .
No " just the facts"
Anger and complete exhaustion ,the norm.
Enjoy them all
All in the British districts.
Multiple murders,serial paedophiles,mysterious list and the usual surprise engines .
No " just the facts"
Anger and complete exhaustion ,the norm.
Enjoy them all
April 26, 2024
David Blake's Swanton Morley
Blake at his best. The short gripping chapters keep you reading, and guessing who the murder is until the very end. Only thing I'm not sure of, is if the prologue was necessary.
Blake at his best. The short gripping chapters keep you reading, and guessing who the murder is until the very end. Only thing I'm not sure of, is if the prologue was necessary.
May 8, 2024
Quite a few twists and turns in this with Murders happening on a regular basis. Trying to figure out who is responsible is very difficult. And the ending is certainly up there as a great ending. Look forward to reading the next one.
May 15, 2024
I have read several of the books in this series and was thrilled to receive a copy of the audiobook in return for an honest opinion. I loved this book and the narrator is excellent. I listened to this book very quickly because it is so well writen. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers.
November 3, 2024
Is this meant to be a farce? Is Tanner REALLY a DCI? Members of his own team, particularly Vicky, seem to be the brains in this operation. And the ending? Confessing all on the doorstep? Take this with a big pinch of salt as it's all rather implausible.
January 3, 2025
Very good
I read a lot of the British DCI books and DCI Tanner is one of the best. I am an American but of primarily UK decent so maybe that's it. This one really shocked me at the end but don't cheat. Read it the way the author intended. You will enjoy it more. :-)
I read a lot of the British DCI books and DCI Tanner is one of the best. I am an American but of primarily UK decent so maybe that's it. This one really shocked me at the end but don't cheat. Read it the way the author intended. You will enjoy it more. :-)
March 8, 2025
SWANTON MORLEY
Another great read i have read nearly all the books in this DCI Tannner series and enjoyed everyone of them great stories with lots of humour as well, looking forward to the next one
Another great read i have read nearly all the books in this DCI Tannner series and enjoyed everyone of them great stories with lots of humour as well, looking forward to the next one
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