What do you think?
DCI Evan Warlow #13
The Last Throw
This time, it's more than personal.
Within the tranquil confines of a west Wales village, peace gives way to pandemonium as a trivial theft transforms into a devastating tragedy.
DCI Evan Warlow confronts what initially appears to be a straightforward case, only to find himself ensnared in a web of deceit. And when a routine press assignment also exposes a team member to a malevolent scheme, chaos begins to spiral.
From idyllic coastlines to rugged peaks, Warlow races across diverse landscapes in pursuit of answers and to foil a deadly adversary. In an electrifying narrative of suspense and sacrifice, he must forge unconventional alliances to tilt the scales in his favour before it's too late.
Within the tranquil confines of a west Wales village, peace gives way to pandemonium as a trivial theft transforms into a devastating tragedy.
DCI Evan Warlow confronts what initially appears to be a straightforward case, only to find himself ensnared in a web of deceit. And when a routine press assignment also exposes a team member to a malevolent scheme, chaos begins to spiral.
From idyllic coastlines to rugged peaks, Warlow races across diverse landscapes in pursuit of answers and to foil a deadly adversary. In an electrifying narrative of suspense and sacrifice, he must forge unconventional alliances to tilt the scales in his favour before it's too late.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2024
About the author
Rhys Dylan
26 books664 followershttps://www.facebook.com/Rhysdylanbooks
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
June 22, 2024
The Last Throw by Rhys Dylan is book 13 in the DCI Evan Warlow series. I remember reading the first book The Engine House and how immersed I was in the story and characters with the wonderful writing. This has continued throughout the series. There are some great conversations between the characters which I just love. Quite often they are about everyday life, but they are so good, and they pull you in. DC Rhys Harries has grown through the course of the series, although he is still always hungry. DS Gil Jones is also a great character. When I start a DCI Evan Warlow book, I know I am going to enjoy it. The setting of the Brecon Beacons in Wales is the icing on the cake. Jan and Mick Semple own the local post office/convenience store. Life was going well until the day they had a runner from the shop. One of their employees, Denzil, took off after him. It did not end well. How quickly life changes, when you least expect it. All the team apart from DS Catrin Richards are working the investigation. Catrin heads off to interview the journalist Geraint Lane, a man who gives her the creepy crawlies. Roger Hunt, the psychopath, is still at large. There are some continuing back stories, so it’s best if this series is read in order.
June 22, 2024
This is one of my favourite series and it's hard to believe that we're at the thirteenth already. It shows no sign either of getting stale.
It's another cracker. We know from the last book of something nasty in store for one of the characters and it doesn't take long for this to occur. Around the same time, a strange robbery at a small store results in the death of an elderly man so the team's focus is split. This was an emotional read. As a reader, I am connected to the team and they almost feel like family. The tension and fear amongst the team was palpable throughout. Rhys is the real hero in this for me. Apart from the usual funny scenes involving him, his character has really developed throughout and he really came to the fore here.
The ending was certainly very intriguing and leaves me waiting with bated breath for the next one.
It's another cracker. We know from the last book of something nasty in store for one of the characters and it doesn't take long for this to occur. Around the same time, a strange robbery at a small store results in the death of an elderly man so the team's focus is split. This was an emotional read. As a reader, I am connected to the team and they almost feel like family. The tension and fear amongst the team was palpable throughout. Rhys is the real hero in this for me. Apart from the usual funny scenes involving him, his character has really developed throughout and he really came to the fore here.
The ending was certainly very intriguing and leaves me waiting with bated breath for the next one.
October 2, 2025
The Last Throw is book thirteen in the DCI Evan Warlow series by Rhys Dylan. DCI Evan Warlow and his team caught a case of simple theft that landed one of the employees dying of a heart attack. However, upon arrival at the scene, DCI Evan Warlow's team realises there is more to this crime and it needs to be investigated. Will DCI Evan Warlow and his team find out the answer, or will it be a case they cannot close? Readers of The Last Throw will continue to follow DCI Evan Warlow's investigation to discover what happens next.
I enjoy reading books by Rhys Dylan, and The Last Throw kept up the tradition. I was engaged with the characters and plot of this book from the first page and remained so throughout. Reading this book, I started to think about women who have a difficult birth and how it affects everyone in the family.
I love Rhys Dylan's portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. The Last Throw is well-written by Rhys Dylan. I like Rhys Dylan's description of the settings of The Last Throw, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
I enjoy reading books by Rhys Dylan, and The Last Throw kept up the tradition. I was engaged with the characters and plot of this book from the first page and remained so throughout. Reading this book, I started to think about women who have a difficult birth and how it affects everyone in the family.
I love Rhys Dylan's portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. The Last Throw is well-written by Rhys Dylan. I like Rhys Dylan's description of the settings of The Last Throw, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
August 6, 2024
This is one of the best books in the very good series of Welsh mysteries. The police team is especially close in this drama since one of their own is in trouble. This book wraps up a story from previous books as well as a new mystery. I appreciate that in real life many murders are not solved right away and having a case drag on is natural. There is a lot of Welsh language and place names that make Americans cross their eyes but most phrases are translated and the settings, traditions and landscapes in rural Wales are a real plus. DCI Warlow has a dry, sarcastic sense of humor and pulls his diverse and dedicated team of detectives together well. He has to deal with clueless upper level officers and the media. The books have a good balance of forensic evidence and good old police work and intuition and the pacing is perfect. I was scared when i saw the title that Warlow's dog was somehow in peril (God forbid) but no worries. The books can stand alone but they are richer with the characters development over time.
July 16, 2024
This is book 13 in the DCI Evan Warlow Crime Thriller series. I have read every one & this is my favourite. A police procedural which can be read as a standalone, but please don’t do that to yourself, start at the very beginning & follow the trials & tribulations of the team.
A convenience store employee dies after following a shoplifter. A local slimy journalist continues to liaise with a female officer citing police transparency, the idea pushed by a senior officer who should know better. I don’t want to say much more for fear of spoilers.
Needless to say, I felt on edge when starting to read this new release, the title & graphics had me thinking all sorts! The team are fabulous & Rhys really shone in this book with some great left field thinking. The camaraderie oozes from the pages with plenty of banter & sarcastic humour but also deep understanding & care for each other. Another brilliant read & roll on book 14.
A convenience store employee dies after following a shoplifter. A local slimy journalist continues to liaise with a female officer citing police transparency, the idea pushed by a senior officer who should know better. I don’t want to say much more for fear of spoilers.
Needless to say, I felt on edge when starting to read this new release, the title & graphics had me thinking all sorts! The team are fabulous & Rhys really shone in this book with some great left field thinking. The camaraderie oozes from the pages with plenty of banter & sarcastic humour but also deep understanding & care for each other. Another brilliant read & roll on book 14.
June 24, 2024
The Last Throw is the thirteenth book in the DCI Evan Warlow series. Unfortunately for the team, they will be split dealing with a robbery and death at a small store whilst trying to find one of their own who has gone missing during an interview with a questionable tabloid journalist. The characters, both good and bad, are well-developed and believable. The interaction between the team pulls you in, making you part of the group. As with all Rhys Dylan’s novels, the descriptions are vivid, and the plot is very interesting, suspenseful and thrilling. It is a nail-biter from beginning to end. I love this series and look forward to DCI Warlow’s next adventure. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2024
Upper management has decided that a smarmy journalist will have access to Catrin regarding a recent case. However, things take a nasty turn when a murderer who had been in hiding kidnaps her and stashes her in an old military bunker. The team is trying everything they can think of to find her before it's too late. I especially liked the role Cadi the dog played in this case.
July 22, 2024
The best yet.
I have been a follower of this outstanding series from book 1 'The Engine House' which was brilliant. This book is by far, my favourite. The main plot was very clever - bringing in a previous story to its conclusion here. I was not able to stop reading as I needed to know how it was all going to end. This happens a lot with this author's work. I am invested in all the main characters and I especially enjoyed DC Rhys Harries getting a bigger part in this book. I'm not going to give a synopsis as other reviewers do it so much better. What I will say though is, if this is your genre and you haven't read any of this series yet, I implore you to give it a go. There are 13 books waiting for you and I really don't think you will be disappointed!
Bravo Mr. Dylan, a job very well done. Now, when is book 14 due out? 😁
I have been a follower of this outstanding series from book 1 'The Engine House' which was brilliant. This book is by far, my favourite. The main plot was very clever - bringing in a previous story to its conclusion here. I was not able to stop reading as I needed to know how it was all going to end. This happens a lot with this author's work. I am invested in all the main characters and I especially enjoyed DC Rhys Harries getting a bigger part in this book. I'm not going to give a synopsis as other reviewers do it so much better. What I will say though is, if this is your genre and you haven't read any of this series yet, I implore you to give it a go. There are 13 books waiting for you and I really don't think you will be disappointed!
Bravo Mr. Dylan, a job very well done. Now, when is book 14 due out? 😁
October 27, 2024
Excellent as always.
August 20, 2025
High tension. Great characters and teamwork. Hugely satisfying.
September 4, 2026
As usual, a lot happening in this story, along with tying up some of a previous case, and giving us something for the future. For this reason, it's best to read the series in order, so as to get the full story behind the main plots.
As usual, the audiobook was very well done.
As usual, the audiobook was very well done.
July 18, 2024
DCI Evan Warlow confronts what initially appears to be a straightforward case, only to find himself ensnared in a web of deceit. And when a routine press assignment also exposes a team member to a malevolent scheme, chaos begins to spiral.
Another cracker of a story from Rhys Dylan. It had me gripped right from the start and then escalated even more! Each character is brought to life so that you engage with them and start to worry about them! DC Rhys Harries came good in this one and DCI Warlow and his team are frustrated at the lack of evidence. The background of the Welsh countryside comes to life in this and an old foe comes out of hiding with devastating results. Couldn't put it down. Each book in this series is as exciting and intriguing as the last. Highly recommend.
Another cracker of a story from Rhys Dylan. It had me gripped right from the start and then escalated even more! Each character is brought to life so that you engage with them and start to worry about them! DC Rhys Harries came good in this one and DCI Warlow and his team are frustrated at the lack of evidence. The background of the Welsh countryside comes to life in this and an old foe comes out of hiding with devastating results. Couldn't put it down. Each book in this series is as exciting and intriguing as the last. Highly recommend.
July 19, 2024
Brilliant as always
This one was a laugh out loud, spine chilling, scary, maliciously funny (I laughed and laughed when the bomb went off in a well deserving face …. Until it suddenly hit me that he was the only person who knew where our hidden loved one was!)
My biggest gripe is that the book is too short! I don’t want to wait for the next book.
Seriously, I have no idea how Rhys Dylan manages to come up with these plots, the twists and turns, the humour and character depths. These people are like family to me … Obviously the next book is waited on eagerly. My absolute favourite crime author of all time!
This one was a laugh out loud, spine chilling, scary, maliciously funny (I laughed and laughed when the bomb went off in a well deserving face …. Until it suddenly hit me that he was the only person who knew where our hidden loved one was!)
My biggest gripe is that the book is too short! I don’t want to wait for the next book.
Seriously, I have no idea how Rhys Dylan manages to come up with these plots, the twists and turns, the humour and character depths. These people are like family to me … Obviously the next book is waited on eagerly. My absolute favourite crime author of all time!
August 8, 2024
I've enjoyed the Black Beacon Murder Mystery series up to this point, but I found this entry to be lacking and contrived in many ways!
The story begins with a continuation of a plotline from the previous novel regarding a potential serial killer who is set to continue his spree with a woman he has already harassed in the past, but without taking action. Now he is about to, and is so confident and bold that he eats an orange in her Kitchen even though he knows she will notice the refuse and know someone has been in the house. However, when she returns with a male friend, his plans are scuppered, and he is forced to make a quick exit. The problem is there is no mention of the previously traumatized woman finding the obviously eaten orange, or immediately calling the police as she had done a number of times in the past when she was sure she was being stalked - insane! Then, to boot, this storyline is immediately dropped for the rest of the novel - huh!
DS Catrin Richards is an extremely accomplished, efficient, and capable woman who has finally become pregnant after multiple IVF attempts. That being the case, the idea of sending her alone to an extremely remote location without cell service is nothing short of careless and irresponsible. However, what makes it more ludicrous is when the rest of the team all make ridiculous assumptions about her not contacting them in a timely fashion as she always does. Simply unacceptable and not in any way believable within the context of the personas of the characters.
These types of contrivances abound throughout the book. Here are more examples. John Napier is in hiding from Roger Hunt, who is determined to kill him. Normally, when an individual is put into a witness protection type situation, the last thing that would be done is to house that person in any home that may be associated with him. So what do they do? They "hide" him in one of his old homes! That is ludicrous enough, but what makes it more unbelievable is that the home has absolutely no security system - come on!
Then, Roger Hunt, who has finally pulled off his plans to kill Napier, needs to escape the area. He comes up with an insane plan to create a bomb as a diversion , instead of a simple fire, and ends up killing himself! This is a man who has lived off the grid and successfully evaded detection for several months. It's impossible to believe that such a confident and calculating individual would think up such a moronic and unnecessarily dangerous plan!
But the final straw is that the only one of the many excellent and experienced detectives that considers looking into Roger Hunt's past family history to help suggest possible ideas to locate Katrin is Rhys, the least experienced by far of the team - beyond unbelievable!
So why am I still giving a decent 3 star rating?
My initial reaction was indeed to give 2 stars, but because I like the characters and most of the previous entries in the series, I decided as a courtesy to Mr. Dylan to give 3 stars.
However, I can not begin to imagine how this entry has such a high rating. I would hope that any individual with any sort of common sense and discernment would see through these inconsistencies and contrivances. But this seems to be the way of the world when it comes to entertainment these days - as long as there is action and drama, it doesn't matter if it makes sense or not - unfortunate, and concerning!
The story begins with a continuation of a plotline from the previous novel regarding a potential serial killer who is set to continue his spree with a woman he has already harassed in the past, but without taking action. Now he is about to, and is so confident and bold that he eats an orange in her Kitchen even though he knows she will notice the refuse and know someone has been in the house. However, when she returns with a male friend, his plans are scuppered, and he is forced to make a quick exit. The problem is there is no mention of the previously traumatized woman finding the obviously eaten orange, or immediately calling the police as she had done a number of times in the past when she was sure she was being stalked - insane! Then, to boot, this storyline is immediately dropped for the rest of the novel - huh!
DS Catrin Richards is an extremely accomplished, efficient, and capable woman who has finally become pregnant after multiple IVF attempts. That being the case, the idea of sending her alone to an extremely remote location without cell service is nothing short of careless and irresponsible. However, what makes it more ludicrous is when the rest of the team all make ridiculous assumptions about her not contacting them in a timely fashion as she always does. Simply unacceptable and not in any way believable within the context of the personas of the characters.
These types of contrivances abound throughout the book. Here are more examples. John Napier is in hiding from Roger Hunt, who is determined to kill him. Normally, when an individual is put into a witness protection type situation, the last thing that would be done is to house that person in any home that may be associated with him. So what do they do? They "hide" him in one of his old homes! That is ludicrous enough, but what makes it more unbelievable is that the home has absolutely no security system - come on!
Then, Roger Hunt, who has finally pulled off his plans to kill Napier, needs to escape the area. He comes up with an insane plan to create a bomb as a diversion , instead of a simple fire, and ends up killing himself! This is a man who has lived off the grid and successfully evaded detection for several months. It's impossible to believe that such a confident and calculating individual would think up such a moronic and unnecessarily dangerous plan!
But the final straw is that the only one of the many excellent and experienced detectives that considers looking into Roger Hunt's past family history to help suggest possible ideas to locate Katrin is Rhys, the least experienced by far of the team - beyond unbelievable!
So why am I still giving a decent 3 star rating?
My initial reaction was indeed to give 2 stars, but because I like the characters and most of the previous entries in the series, I decided as a courtesy to Mr. Dylan to give 3 stars.
However, I can not begin to imagine how this entry has such a high rating. I would hope that any individual with any sort of common sense and discernment would see through these inconsistencies and contrivances. But this seems to be the way of the world when it comes to entertainment these days - as long as there is action and drama, it doesn't matter if it makes sense or not - unfortunate, and concerning!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2025
1.5 stars. Very disappointing. The antagonists conclusion was so anticlimactic and such a letdown, and it also felt like a cop out. Also, I’m not a fan of Warlow x Jess.
October 7, 2025
Yeah Caddy is the heroine!!! Love the interpersonal relationships . . . especially when they include our canine friend. This one left a little bit in angst, due to the Katherine story line. Also, I have noticed Rhys, doesn't really tie up all the threads so they can meander into the next book. Not sure how I feel about that since I am not necessarily listening to them in order . . . but rather when I can get them from the Arlington, VA public library through Libby. Shout out to Arlington County Public Libaries!
July 16, 2025
★★★★★ review of The Last Throw by Rhys Dylan — the 13th thrilling installment in the DCI Evan Warlow series:
From the very first page, The Last Throw draws you into the serene Welsh village of the Black Beacons, where a seemingly petty theft spirals into a harrowing tragedy
. But what begins as a routine case quickly becomes deeply personal for DCI Evan Warlow—each clue intensifies, tension escalates, and the stakes skyrocket .
Rhys Dylan once again proves his mastery of Celtic noir, blending atmospheric descriptions of rugged peaks and rolling coastlines with pitch‑perfect pacing that had me glued to the pages long after midnight. The interplay between the natural beauty and looming danger lends the novel a richly immersive sense of place.
The emotional depth is real, too. This isn’t just another case file—Warlow’s team is fully fleshed out, and the added pressure of a routine press assignment throwing one of them into danger heightens the suspense. There’s a seamless balance between the high-stakes investigation, dry humour, and genuinely moving character moments. One reviewer put it perfectly:
“Plus he's terrific at dialog—and throwing humor into the dialog, without breaking up the story line and keeping the tension taut.”
Amazon
The narrative twists are well-wrought, with unexpected alliances, shocking reveals, and a sense of sacrifice that elevates the emotional intensity . Yet Dylan never loses sight of the human element, bringing warmth, wryness, and even moments of levity through the beloved dog Cadi and the team’s dynamic.
By the end, the novel delivers a satisfying payoff—both a ripping procedural and a poignant story about loyalty, courage, and community.
⭐ Highlights:
Setting & atmosphere: Vivid depictions of west Wales—from coastal cliffs to village lanes—set a haunting tone.
Plot & pacing: Fast-moving with careful layering; the trivial theft quickly unravels into a tense, life‑or‑death investigation.
Characters & emotion: Warlow and his team feel like old friends; their camaraderie, dry wit, and drive to protect each other anchor the narrative.
Suspense & surprises: Just when you think it’s predictable, Dylan flips the script with clever twists and emotional depth.
In short: The Last Throw is a masterfully written, edge‑of‑your‑seat police thriller that balances suspense, stunning setting, and real heart. It’s Rhys Dylan at his finest—simply unmissable.
From the very first page, The Last Throw draws you into the serene Welsh village of the Black Beacons, where a seemingly petty theft spirals into a harrowing tragedy
. But what begins as a routine case quickly becomes deeply personal for DCI Evan Warlow—each clue intensifies, tension escalates, and the stakes skyrocket .
Rhys Dylan once again proves his mastery of Celtic noir, blending atmospheric descriptions of rugged peaks and rolling coastlines with pitch‑perfect pacing that had me glued to the pages long after midnight. The interplay between the natural beauty and looming danger lends the novel a richly immersive sense of place.
The emotional depth is real, too. This isn’t just another case file—Warlow’s team is fully fleshed out, and the added pressure of a routine press assignment throwing one of them into danger heightens the suspense. There’s a seamless balance between the high-stakes investigation, dry humour, and genuinely moving character moments. One reviewer put it perfectly:
“Plus he's terrific at dialog—and throwing humor into the dialog, without breaking up the story line and keeping the tension taut.”
Amazon
The narrative twists are well-wrought, with unexpected alliances, shocking reveals, and a sense of sacrifice that elevates the emotional intensity . Yet Dylan never loses sight of the human element, bringing warmth, wryness, and even moments of levity through the beloved dog Cadi and the team’s dynamic.
By the end, the novel delivers a satisfying payoff—both a ripping procedural and a poignant story about loyalty, courage, and community.
⭐ Highlights:
Setting & atmosphere: Vivid depictions of west Wales—from coastal cliffs to village lanes—set a haunting tone.
Plot & pacing: Fast-moving with careful layering; the trivial theft quickly unravels into a tense, life‑or‑death investigation.
Characters & emotion: Warlow and his team feel like old friends; their camaraderie, dry wit, and drive to protect each other anchor the narrative.
Suspense & surprises: Just when you think it’s predictable, Dylan flips the script with clever twists and emotional depth.
In short: The Last Throw is a masterfully written, edge‑of‑your‑seat police thriller that balances suspense, stunning setting, and real heart. It’s Rhys Dylan at his finest—simply unmissable.
August 31, 2026
First things first, Cadi the dog is just fine. For those of you concerned about the title and the cover of this book, just know that Cadi is okay. In fact, she's quite the hero in this novel.
This was hands-down my favorite novel in this series (at least, so far). Everything was so good!
There's a lot going on in this book. The most nail-biting aspect is that Catrin is in danger, and the team comes together in a big way to help her. We also see a bad guy from 2 or 3 novels ago finally get what's coming to him, which was rewarding. Also, the team is still working on finding a way to get enough evidence to go after another creepy character - so I'm hoping that happens in the next novel. And finally, there's also another another crime/death to be solved, and since the team is so busy with everything else, Rhys is given a long leash to work out most of it on his own. It's great to see him turning into a great detective. Rhys also makes a major breakthrough for something he comes up with that helps Catrin. As mentioned earlier, though, Cadi the dog gets the MVP trophy in this one. Good girl. :)
Some notable things also happen which help push Warlow to address his feelings for Jess, and it's nice to see him learning and growing. I've been a champion of this budding relationship since the start, so I'm happy to see things progressing.
In order to be objective, I'll say that the only thing wrong with this book is that I found more typos in this one than in any others. Every one of them should have very easily been found by an editor.
Nonetheless, I absolutely loved this book and already have the next one queued up. Can't wait to see what happens next with the team!
This was hands-down my favorite novel in this series (at least, so far). Everything was so good!
There's a lot going on in this book. The most nail-biting aspect is that Catrin is in danger, and the team comes together in a big way to help her. We also see a bad guy from 2 or 3 novels ago finally get what's coming to him, which was rewarding. Also, the team is still working on finding a way to get enough evidence to go after another creepy character - so I'm hoping that happens in the next novel. And finally, there's also another another crime/death to be solved, and since the team is so busy with everything else, Rhys is given a long leash to work out most of it on his own. It's great to see him turning into a great detective. Rhys also makes a major breakthrough for something he comes up with that helps Catrin. As mentioned earlier, though, Cadi the dog gets the MVP trophy in this one. Good girl. :)
Some notable things also happen which help push Warlow to address his feelings for Jess, and it's nice to see him learning and growing. I've been a champion of this budding relationship since the start, so I'm happy to see things progressing.
In order to be objective, I'll say that the only thing wrong with this book is that I found more typos in this one than in any others. Every one of them should have very easily been found by an editor.
Nonetheless, I absolutely loved this book and already have the next one queued up. Can't wait to see what happens next with the team!
July 7, 2024
This is book 13 in the DCI Evan Warlow Novels: A Black Beacon Mystery series and this was definitely one of my favourite in the series, no spoilers but my favourite character has a starring role in this one! IYKYK. Such a good series and whilst the books read well as stand-alones there are recurring characters and recurring cases so if you enjoy police procedural read them all you won’t be sorry. This time a man dies after a shoplifter runs out of a post office/convenience store with a pack of beer and one of Warlow’s colleagues goes missing in very concerning circumstances.
Briefly, with a store employee dead the petty shoplifting takes on a new light for the team as they try to find out who the shoplifter was. However, the post mortem reveals an unexpected result on the dead man. Meanwhile, with one of the team out on assignment with a local journalist, at a remote house where a terrible murder took place, there is a terrible shock in store for the team!
One of the great things about this series is Warlow’s small team of detectives. Such fabulous characters and some great dialogue with plenty of sarcasm, witticisms, but also amazing support for each other. The lovely Rhys really came into his own this time and he’s the character that is growing the most over the series. This time it got very emotional when the team member was missing, can’t say more for fear of spoilers! Again! A really cracking police procedural that I fair wizzed through. Fabulous book.
Briefly, with a store employee dead the petty shoplifting takes on a new light for the team as they try to find out who the shoplifter was. However, the post mortem reveals an unexpected result on the dead man. Meanwhile, with one of the team out on assignment with a local journalist, at a remote house where a terrible murder took place, there is a terrible shock in store for the team!
One of the great things about this series is Warlow’s small team of detectives. Such fabulous characters and some great dialogue with plenty of sarcasm, witticisms, but also amazing support for each other. The lovely Rhys really came into his own this time and he’s the character that is growing the most over the series. This time it got very emotional when the team member was missing, can’t say more for fear of spoilers! Again! A really cracking police procedural that I fair wizzed through. Fabulous book.
January 23, 2026
This is Book 13 of the DCI Evan Warlow series by Rhys Dylan. June has arrived in West Wales and the days are getting longer, and starting to warm up. But with the rising temperatures, comes the uptick in crime in the area.
DCI Evan Warlow and members of his rapid response team are called to the scene of a dead body in relation to a robbery in the small village of Ffynnon Fach. As Warlow’s team begin their investigation, and go about interviewing the owners, and the other customers that were in the store at the time of the robbery, they are hoping this may be a fairly
straightforward case. But when are they ever?
Meanwhile, DS Catrin Richards is at the isolated cottage where back almost half a year ago, the property’s owner, Rosyston Moyles, was found brutally murdered (see Book 10 in the series “No One Near”). DS Richards has been tasked by a couple of her higher-ups with making herself available for continuing interviews about the ongoing murder case. So she once again finds herself alone, and being interviewed by local journalist and thorn in the side Dyfed Powys Police Force, Geraint Lane.
What started as an interview, quickly becomes a major crisis for Warlow and his team when both DS Richards and Lane disappear.
Yet another terrific book in this series from Rhys Dylan, and as always, the character development is beyond good.
As I already have a copy of the next book in the series, I would imagine I will be starting that soon.
DCI Evan Warlow and members of his rapid response team are called to the scene of a dead body in relation to a robbery in the small village of Ffynnon Fach. As Warlow’s team begin their investigation, and go about interviewing the owners, and the other customers that were in the store at the time of the robbery, they are hoping this may be a fairly
straightforward case. But when are they ever?
Meanwhile, DS Catrin Richards is at the isolated cottage where back almost half a year ago, the property’s owner, Rosyston Moyles, was found brutally murdered (see Book 10 in the series “No One Near”). DS Richards has been tasked by a couple of her higher-ups with making herself available for continuing interviews about the ongoing murder case. So she once again finds herself alone, and being interviewed by local journalist and thorn in the side Dyfed Powys Police Force, Geraint Lane.
What started as an interview, quickly becomes a major crisis for Warlow and his team when both DS Richards and Lane disappear.
Yet another terrific book in this series from Rhys Dylan, and as always, the character development is beyond good.
As I already have a copy of the next book in the series, I would imagine I will be starting that soon.
July 20, 2024
3.5 stars. It's always a good reading week when the latest DCI Evan Warlow arrives and this week was no exception. This instalment wraps up a story line started in book 10, No One Near, when fugitive on the run, Roger Hunt re-appears and DS Catrin Richards will become the key to completing his quest for vengeance. With one of their own in danger, the race against time is personal and even Gil's sense of humour may be missing as the tension mounts. I loved the team interaction and the gripping race to solve the crime. The last few chapters to wrap up all the loose strings however felt contrived to just get the story done and a few typos escaped the editing process so not the 4 stars it would otherwise be. Love the series, cannot wait for the next one, highly recommend!
July 5, 2026
3.5 stars, rounded down
What starts off as the team’s investigation into a robbery related death gets totally sidetracked when Catrin is kidnapped.
For the past few books, going back to No One Near (#10), there has been an ongoing side plot about a criminal who escaped justice. In The Last Throw, it all comes back to the forefront. For that reason, I would not recommend reading this as a stand-alone. Go back to at least No One Near.
This series is a well done police procedural, complete with an excellent team, some humor and mostly realistic plots. There’s always a nice blend between professional and personal lives. The story also worked well as Rhys and Cadi both get a chance to shine here.
Credit to Dylan for keeping a constant thread of underlying suspense and tension through what might seem like a low key story. That said, even for such a short story there were parts that slow.
I listened to this and totally enjoyed Tobias Weatherburn as the narrator.
What starts off as the team’s investigation into a robbery related death gets totally sidetracked when Catrin is kidnapped.
For the past few books, going back to No One Near (#10), there has been an ongoing side plot about a criminal who escaped justice. In The Last Throw, it all comes back to the forefront. For that reason, I would not recommend reading this as a stand-alone. Go back to at least No One Near.
This series is a well done police procedural, complete with an excellent team, some humor and mostly realistic plots. There’s always a nice blend between professional and personal lives. The story also worked well as Rhys and Cadi both get a chance to shine here.
Credit to Dylan for keeping a constant thread of underlying suspense and tension through what might seem like a low key story. That said, even for such a short story there were parts that slow.
I listened to this and totally enjoyed Tobias Weatherburn as the narrator.
September 3, 2024
A real page turner
I could not stop reading this book because the story like all the DCI Warlow books caught my attention from the beginning. I stayed up way too late reading and then started reading again before I got out of bed the next morning.I can’t wait for the next book which is coming out in a few weeks. I highly recommend these books to anyone looking for a great series to read. Read them in the order written because even though they are individual stories, the characters do talk about previous cases they worked on. I love how Rhys Dylan writes. His characters make me laugh out loud and his countryside descriptions make me check Google Maps to find out where they are going. I look forward to reading all the new books that I know are coming our way to see how the character’s stories develop. Bravo! Another fun book.
I could not stop reading this book because the story like all the DCI Warlow books caught my attention from the beginning. I stayed up way too late reading and then started reading again before I got out of bed the next morning.I can’t wait for the next book which is coming out in a few weeks. I highly recommend these books to anyone looking for a great series to read. Read them in the order written because even though they are individual stories, the characters do talk about previous cases they worked on. I love how Rhys Dylan writes. His characters make me laugh out loud and his countryside descriptions make me check Google Maps to find out where they are going. I look forward to reading all the new books that I know are coming our way to see how the character’s stories develop. Bravo! Another fun book.
July 17, 2024
Maybe I should call 911… DCI Evan Warlow and team have stolen my heart.
This captivating crime thriller so brings the feels, with a pulse-pounding tale wrapped within the private lives of our intrepid detectives.
There is such an emotional depth and caring among this team of primary characters. Lives so fleshed out and real, that we seamlessly inhabit their world as the story deepens.
A psychopath has resurfaced, bringing a reluctant acolyte, leading to crimes both confounding and fascinating. Clues are sparse, the outcome dire, and a loss is unthinkable!
Such a clever, well-told story, weaving together a mix of personalities, gripping mysteries, and the team’s ever-sharpening focus. A thriller with heart. Highly recommend.
This captivating crime thriller so brings the feels, with a pulse-pounding tale wrapped within the private lives of our intrepid detectives.
There is such an emotional depth and caring among this team of primary characters. Lives so fleshed out and real, that we seamlessly inhabit their world as the story deepens.
A psychopath has resurfaced, bringing a reluctant acolyte, leading to crimes both confounding and fascinating. Clues are sparse, the outcome dire, and a loss is unthinkable!
Such a clever, well-told story, weaving together a mix of personalities, gripping mysteries, and the team’s ever-sharpening focus. A thriller with heart. Highly recommend.
Read
August 3, 20244.70
1,448 ratings46 reviews
This time, it's more than personal.
Within the tranquil confines of a west Wales village, peace gives way to pandemonium as a trivial theft transforms into a devastating tragedy.
DCI Evan Warlow confronts what initially appears to be a straightforward case, only to find himself ensnared in a web of deceit. And when a routine press assignment also exposes a team member to a malevolent scheme, chaos begins to spiral.
From idyllic coastlines to rugged peaks, Warlow races across diverse landscapes in pursuit of answers and to foil a deadly adversary. In an electrifying narrative of suspense and sacrifice, he must forge unconventional alliances to tilt the scales in his favour before it's too late.
Good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2024
I postponed this one a while since I was worried about the outcome of the so-called last throw. What can I say -- I'm a sucker for dogs and cats. (I am a childless cat lady! Though I have just one cat -- a black cat-- and one tiny dog that is a mixture of scotty, yorkie, and dust bunny.) I needn't have worried: Rhys Dylan is not that kind of writer, he says.
This, I think was interesting, I read it too fast (I hate it when I do that because the next book in the series isn't out until October 2024.
I'm looking forward to however many more of this series he wants to write (quite a few, I hope.)
This, I think was interesting, I read it too fast (I hate it when I do that because the next book in the series isn't out until October 2024.
I'm looking forward to however many more of this series he wants to write (quite a few, I hope.)
September 14, 2024
Another great addition to this series featuring DCI Evan Warlow and his team. Rhys Dylan manages to keep the Welsh setting, the characters, and the plots intriguing. The previous book had DS Catrin Richards reluctantly having to sit for interviews with the unpleasant journalist Geraint Lane as ordered by her superiors.
This time the meeting was to take place at the out of the way location of a murder. Of course, things go drastically wrong. The team doesn't have any idea what has happened until realizing that a disturbed murderer from a previous case is involved. A frantic search begins, not just for Catrin, but in hopes of preventing another murder.
One of the best police procedural series out there because of Dylan's skill with characters and plots.
This time the meeting was to take place at the out of the way location of a murder. Of course, things go drastically wrong. The team doesn't have any idea what has happened until realizing that a disturbed murderer from a previous case is involved. A frantic search begins, not just for Catrin, but in hopes of preventing another murder.
One of the best police procedural series out there because of Dylan's skill with characters and plots.
December 3, 2025
This series of novels revolve around a tight knit group of police officers in Wales. They are well-written, with great characters that have interesting stories themselves. There is just the right amount of humor and banter. I am annoyed by books that have ridiculous amounts of dialogue that does not enrich the story. These do not. There is suspense and bad people, but lots of good people also. I always learn something. The Welsh names are unfamiliar and inscrutable but the knowledge that the language is still spoken, along with English, is interesting. There is always a little something left dangling at the end of each book….enough that you want to read the next. The author has created a series that hooks the reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2026
I liked this book quite a lot, but I had a couple of problems with it.
One, it's the first book I've read in this series, and as other reviewers have commented, a knowledge of the backstory of cases and characters is helpful. It took me several chapters and a bit of rereading to straighten out who everyone was and what their relationships were.
Two, this is not the author's fault, but the repeated and random switching from straight apostrophes to curvy apostrophes and back again made me crazy. I edit/proofread for a living, and I was constantly noticing this. There were other typographical errors, like sentences ending with two periods.
I'm hoping I can find the first volume of the series and start at the beginning.
Cymru am byth!
One, it's the first book I've read in this series, and as other reviewers have commented, a knowledge of the backstory of cases and characters is helpful. It took me several chapters and a bit of rereading to straighten out who everyone was and what their relationships were.
Two, this is not the author's fault, but the repeated and random switching from straight apostrophes to curvy apostrophes and back again made me crazy. I edit/proofread for a living, and I was constantly noticing this. There were other typographical errors, like sentences ending with two periods.
I'm hoping I can find the first volume of the series and start at the beginning.
Cymru am byth!
July 20, 2024
Another fantastic read!
I've read every book in the DCI Warlow series to date and have NEVER been disappointed.
Each book has excellent storylines and DCI Warlow and his team are fantastic. Although the storylines can be "dark", there's also a lot of humour and one-liners that have made me LOL.
Most of the books have had me on the edge of my seat and, without giving anything away, this latest was no exception. My heart was in my mouth at one point 😱
All the characters have been carefully crafted by Rhys Dylan and although I love each and every one, I have a huge soft spot for Cadi😍Evan's Labrador.
Keep up the good work, Mr Dylan. I now feel that Evan, Jess, Gil, Rhys, Molly and Cadi are part of my family😀 and I'm bereft at the end of each book!
I've read every book in the DCI Warlow series to date and have NEVER been disappointed.
Each book has excellent storylines and DCI Warlow and his team are fantastic. Although the storylines can be "dark", there's also a lot of humour and one-liners that have made me LOL.
Most of the books have had me on the edge of my seat and, without giving anything away, this latest was no exception. My heart was in my mouth at one point 😱
All the characters have been carefully crafted by Rhys Dylan and although I love each and every one, I have a huge soft spot for Cadi😍Evan's Labrador.
Keep up the good work, Mr Dylan. I now feel that Evan, Jess, Gil, Rhys, Molly and Cadi are part of my family😀 and I'm bereft at the end of each book!
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