Death of an Officer

DCI Frank Merlin #6

by Mark Ellis

London. Spring 1943. While Europe continues to suffer under the iron fist of Nazi occupation, Britain remains battered but unbowed.

DCI Frank Merlin, already contending with a booming wartime crime wave in the capital, is confronted with a baffling the brutal murder of a respected doctor.

Following a puzzling trail that leads him into the hidden corners of clubland—and which appears to be linked to the disappearance of both British and American officers—Merlin must untangle a dark web of shocking secrets.

Genres: Drama, Book Club, Mystery Thriller, Young Adult, Ebooks, Thriller, Adventure

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 29, 2025

About the author

Former barrister and businessman from Wales. Writer, podcaster, historian. CWA Dagger nominee. 2025 HWA Gold Crown Judge.

Author of 6 books in the Frank Merlin WW2 detective series:
Princes Gate (1) now retitled The Embassy Murders
Stalin’s Gold (2) now retitled In The Shadows Of The Blitz
Merlin At War (3) now retitled The French Spy
A Death In Mayfair (4)
Dead In The Water (5)
Death Of An Officer (6)

Some reviews of the Merlin series:
‘Immersive, authentic, evocative’ Fiinancial Times
‘Must-read for murder mystery lovers’ Daily Mail
‘Masterly….compelling’ Bestselling historian Andrew Roberts'
‘Unputdownable’ WW2 historian Robert Lyman
‘Dead In The Water is to my shame the first Mark Ellis book I’ve read. If the others evoke a vanished London so impressively, are graced with such complex plots and deep characterisation, and, above all, are written so well I shall have to read them all.’ The Times
‘Intriguing, masterly’ John Lawton bestselling author
‘Outstanding historical mystery’ New York Times bestseller Joe Finder
‘A potent mix of crime mystery and wartime thriller…excellent’ Alex Gerlis bestselling spy fiction writer
‘Pitch perfect’ Aspects of Crime Magazine
‘Miraculous’ Shots Magazine

Mark Ellis has also written Boom Time, a history of true crime in WW2 London

Reviews

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really entertaining series! I enjoyed reading about police procedures at an earlier time (WWII) , where no handies were available, no fast cars (when available anyway because of the war restrictions!), no computers. I find it really fascinating to read about forensics of the time with their limited means. Very atmospheric indeed! The police team is relatable with a pleasant work team. The plot remains complex with an interesting sense of justice... I loved it! A great read I highly recommend!
I have received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.

[Mairead Hearne (swirlandthread.com) · Rating 4 out of 5]

WW2: Whilst the nation is engaged in a heroic endeavour, crime flourishes in London. Murder, robbery, theft and rape are rife and the Blitz gives scope for widespread looting. This is an intriguing, harsh and cruel world. This is the world of DCI Frank Merlin'

Death of an Officer by Mark Ellis published May 29th with Headline Accent and is the sixth book in this series featuring DCI Frank Merlin, ‘an Anglo-Spanish police detective operating in World War 2 London’.

Frank Merlin is a tenacious and hard-working individual who seeks justice and truth at all times. His work has led to many convictions as he battles against the wave of crime that has developed in this vacuum that was created during the devastation and destruction of a city in the throes of war. Criminals love to take advantage of a city whose defences are weakened but Frank Merlin is recognised as a man not to be taken for granted. His ability to dig deep and connect the dots in difficult circumstances has earned him a respect from both colleagues and crime gang members.

When the body of a well-respected gynaecologist is discovered murdered in his own home Merlin is given the task to lead the investigation. Perplexed as to what could possibly have lead to this man’s shocking demise, he and his team follow every lead available but it just doesn’t make any sense. The victim was of good character and repute. He was a hard-working medical practitioner, a married man. He played Bridge but other than that was almost reclusive. Why then was he brutally murdered?

Within a short space of time, their investigative load is increased when there is a report of a missing American officer. As Merlin and his team review the facts, they make some very disconcerting discoveries leading them into the underworld of gangland crime, dubious clubs and hidden agendas.

Mark Ellis writes with a style that very much suits this era. It is a noir landscape of shadows and dodgy crime bosses with malevolent behaviour and much disregard for human life. Frank Merlin is a great protagonist. He is pragmatic, respectful of his team but also discerning in judgement and action.

Death of an Officer is another fine addition to this war-time crime fiction detective series. The dialogue flows easily and, even though there are numerous characters, each is very clearly described and their role clearly defined. As the cover suggests, this is a series that plays out in monochrome in the mind of the reader. Atmospheric and suspenseful, these books are wonderfully plotted and delightfully entertaining. The backdrop of a country at war instils a real sense of authenticity as Merlin, and his team at Scotland Yard, continue to fight a more personal war in the shadows of the London streets and alleyways. Old-time drama, heists, crime bosses, intrigue and murder all combine in Death of an Officer, providing a slick and engaging work of fiction, a real treat for fans of astute detective novels.

[Rajnish Kumar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer by Mark Ellis is a fascinating historical crime novel set in London in 1943. The story starts with the suspicious killing that Detective Frank Merlin investigates. In the later pages, the plot unfolds into more layers, revealing highly gripping subplots. This read captures the thrill and uncertainty of the war period with intricate details, making the setting feel real and alive. This is an innovative blend of crime investigation, wartime politics, and personal struggles. The detective's character is thoughtful and determined, adding emotional depth to the storyline, which is a well-paced and satisfying murder mystery.
I found this to be an engaging police procedural with a well-crafted historical setting. The wartime atmosphere was captured nicely with vivid details, adding depth to the investigation. I especially liked the unveiling of the character, which creates a hook and suspense that lasts until the end. If you like suspense thrillers with innovative settings, this could be your pick.

[Kevin Cowdall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly Recommended.

Mark Ellis’ WWII crime series continues to go from strength-to-strength. In a race against time, with resources stretched to the limit, DCI Frank Merlin and his Scotland Yard team are faced with two mysterious, and seemingly unrelated, murder cases.

In this, the sixth instalment in the series, Ellis once again weaves a thoroughly compelling thriller, interlacing serving British and American military personnel, respected medical professionals, influential members of the political and titled elite, and a nefarious cast of London’s criminal underworld, to deliver a carefully researched, well-paced, and totally engaging page-turner. I eagerly await the next instalment.

[Darya Silman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this solid detective story set in WW2 London. I like the plot which allows the readers to guess the murderer at the right time, not too late, not too early. I also love the authentic characters' speech that sounded absolutely British in my head

[Applepole · Rating 5 out of 5]

The streetlights of London are still on even in daylight. Everyone pretends they can see. They cannot. Mark Ellis understands that kind of wartime haze where duty and appetite run side by side, and sometimes collide. Death of an Officer gives you a detective who is not bored by his job or haunted for sport. Frank Merlin is steady and quietly stubborn. He resists pomp. He likes a clean line of inquiry and the occasional Everton mint. I liked him immediately, which is disarming in a crime novel because comfort never lasts.
The case opens with an image that stuck with me in a way I did not expect. An eminent gynaecologist, Dr Dev Sinha, lies murdered in his South Kensington flat, a statue of Ganesh turned into a blunt instrument and left behind like a dare. The detail is precise without being ornamental. A cleaner opens the windows to clear the sweet thick smell that follows violent death, and that tiny action becomes part of the emotional weather. From there the book widens into clubland and clandestine corners and rooms where men who run empires whisper about decorum while breaking every rule that matters.
Ellis builds a world that feels not only researched but lived in. Wartime London is not a backdrop. It is an accomplice. Rationed food that tastes like nothing. Trains that arrive on time by miracle. The formal distance of a consulting room in Wimpole Street. The hush of St Paul’s at a thanksgiving service Merlin is grateful to miss. I kept scribbling small notes to myself about how well the city breathes on the page. It is not romantic. It is vibrant and a little bruised.
The novel makes space for the reality of prejudice without turning it into a sermon. Sinha is respected in his field, and still there are patients who will not see him because of the color of his skin. That ugliness matters thematically and it matters to the investigation. I appreciated how Ellis lets those moments sting and then keep stinging. The book is interested in power. Who has it. Who borrows it. Who thinks they deserve more. That runs through the medicine, the police, the clubs, the American military presence, even the black market. There is a scene with an American liaison, Bernie Goldberg, that I read twice because the dynamic is so crisp. Two men who understand the job and understand the public theater of the job. They talk policy, then drink bitter, then get back to work. I kind of loved that rhythm. It feels like the case breathing.
Plot wise, the book is nimble rather than flashy. Ellis does not yank the rug so much as slide it slowly and watch you wobble. I prefer that. The murder weapon drawn from a bedroom shelf says something about intent or panic or both. The whisky glasses on the table tell a different story. The open windows another. There is a bridge club that may or may not matter. There is a threatening letter that might be extortion or something worse. Every thread has weight. I am not always patient with procedural detail, and yet here I was, leaning forward at the difference between a locked bathroom window and a latch on the main door.
The supporting cast is sharply sketched and sometimes knowingly funny. A receptionist who corrects the title of a man she admires and then cries at her own insistence. A partner who might be generous or might be protecting himself. A gangster who looks like a banker. A young thug who could be saved and probably will not be. I can still hear the landlady who knows exactly who needs quick service and why. These are quick brushstrokes that add up to a mural.
If I have a quibble, it is small. The novel occasionally explains a feeling I had already understood from the scene. I did not need the extra sentence. Then again, this is a world full of uniforms and badges and forms in triplicate. Repetition is part of the air. I can live with it.
The best thing here is the balance of tenderness and steel. Death is never a spectacle. Grief flares and settles. Merlin is careful with people who deserve care, and even when he is wrong he is wrong for human reasons. The book respects women who are vulnerable and women who are dangerous. It respects the way a nation at war still makes room for small pleasures. A pint that actually tastes good. A song in a bath. A joke told too loudly on a train.
By the end I felt that specific reader feeling where you close the book and keep listening because the city is still talking. Four and a half stars in my head. The satisfying kind. I am grateful I read it, and I will be thinking about that quiet, stubborn detective for a while.

[Zeta Dionn · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s always the quiet ones. That was my first thought finishing Death of an Officer. Mark Ellis doesn’t shout with this book. There’s no high-gloss melodrama, no twist thrown in for cheap shock. Instead, it builds slowly, methodically, like cigarette smoke curling through a dark pub. And by the time you realize how deep you’ve gone, you’re too far in to stop.
DCI Frank Merlin is tired. And you feel it — not in a boring, gumshoe-walking-the-same-beat kind of way, but in the real sense. He’s a man doing his job in a city that’s breaking under the weight of war. Bodies show up. People lie. Secrets don’t stay buried for long. But it’s not the murder itself that gets under your skin — it’s the network of quiet corruption Ellis pulls into the light, slowly, patiently. You keep reading because you want to know who did it. You keep thinking because of why they could.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure at first. Wartime crime fiction sometimes reads like it’s wearing its setting as a costume — all sepia and stiff upper lip. But not here. This version of 1943 London breathes. It reeks of bomb damage and tired men in suits who drink too much. It feels lived-in.
And then there’s the pacing — not frantic, not sluggish. Just steady. Like Merlin himself. It’s the sort of book where you think you’ll stop after one more chapter, then look up and realize two hours passed. The way Ellis folds the disappearance of the officers into the central murder plot? Subtle, but sticky. Like two chords that don’t seem to match at first, but eventually resolve into something oddly beautiful.
The clubland stuff — the secrets, the false faces, the lingering dread — it gave the whole thing this smoky, noir-adjacent flavor. I could almost hear the glasses clinking. Almost smell the sweat and cheap perfume. Maybe I’ve watched too many old films, but it all worked for me.
If I had one gripe (I always do), I wish a few of the side characters had sharper edges. There's a doctor who plays a key part — I won’t spoil it — who felt just slightly underdeveloped. Like I could see the outline but wanted more depth. Still, it didn’t detract. Not really.
What this book reminded me is that crime fiction doesn’t have to scream to be powerful. Sometimes it just has to whisper at the right moments — a look, a name, a file half-shoved into a drawer — and your gut knows something's wrong.
And when the final pieces snap together? It’s not relief you feel. It’s something colder. Not despair, exactly. Just the knowledge that justice, even when served, doesn’t undo the harm.
A strong read. One I’ll probably think about longer than I expected.

[Thanuja Shetty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Death of an Officer by Mark Ellis

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉Mark Ellis’s Death of an Officer is a richly layered historical crime novel that effortlessly merges the grit of detective fiction with the haunting backdrop of wartime London. Set during a time when the world is engulfed in turmoil, and Britain fights to survive amidst relentless bombings and growing uncertainties, the book captures the perfect storm of suspense, fear, and intrigue.

👉At the heart of the novel is Detective Chief Inspector Frank Merlin, a resilient, intelligent, and emotionally nuanced character. As the country reels from war, Merlin must juggle the growing pressures of rising crime with a particularly disturbing new case: the murder of a respected doctor. But what begins as a single act of violence quickly expands into a far more dangerous and complicated investigation.

👉As Merlin follows the trail of clues, the plot thickens—drawing him into the hidden world of exclusive clubs, military secrets, and political darkness. The mystery takes on a global dimension with the disappearance of both British and American officers, hinting at conspiracies that could have grave consequences.

👉What makes this novel truly stand out is Ellis’s meticulous attention to historical detail. From the tension in the streets to the societal shifts, rationing, and the ever-present fear of bombing raids—every page breathes life into the era. The war isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a force shaping the characters and their decisions. The book captures the constant moral grey areas that emerge in times of crisis, making the stakes feel real and urgent.

👉Frank Merlin, as a detective, is compelling not just for his intellect but for his humanity. He is caught between duty, personal ethics, and the growing demands of a city under siege. His emotional depth gives the story weight, and his persistence drives the plot forward in a way that feels both realistic and inspiring.

👉The pacing is sharp, with well-crafted suspense that slowly builds to a rewarding payoff. Subplots are seamlessly interwoven, and supporting characters are equally well-drawn.

Happy reading 😁😁

#bookreview

[Tripfiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crime mystery set in WW2 LONDON



This is the 6th outing for DCI Frank Merlin.

London is in the midst of war and the bombs and destruction notwithstanding, the police force is stretched trying to tackle the crime that has proliferated in the city during the war years. The latest crime is the death of a renowned gynaecologist of Indian heritage, practising in Wimpole Street, who was battered to death at home by a statue of Ganesh. Delving into the victim's life, on the face of it there is no real indication that he was anything other than an upstanding member of the community, someone who liked to play Bridge and kept himself to himself. His wife was housed in a sanatorium. And yet as Merlin and his team trawl through the man's history, they discover discrepancies, masks and details that raise an investigative eyebrow.

A body is then found in Limehouse. Could it be the remains of a missing American officer, who had been reported to the team? As they investigate his disappearance, they start to uncover clues that lead to a darker underworld of crime, thuggery and blackmail.

The writing style is really transportive in terms of time and place, this is a very well managed storyline that gradually and thoughtfully unfolds. There is a good sense of London, with its pubs and characters, grounded in the mores of the time, and the novel moves around well known areas of London, from Merlin's Chelsea home to other landmark areas.

This is an engaging read, the author writes with authority and develops a credible plot with excellently drawn characters.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘The victim is a medical man. A surgeon.’ – A fascinating thriller

UK author Mark Ellis continues his DCI Frank Merlin novels – to date The Embassy Murders, In the Shadows of the Blitz, The French Spy, A Death in Mayfair and Dead in the Water – with DEATH OF AN OFFICER. The protagonist is an Anglo-Spanish police detective and the period is London during WW II. The author’s ability to establish atmosphere Is evident as the novel opens in the year 1943: ‘Detective Chief Inspector Frank Merlin took the call at just after nine in the morning. Murder calls were never welcome, but this one had a small silver lining attached. It was going to get Merlin out of a sticky predicament…’

Ellis successful blends wartime London with crime is this exceptional thriller, the plot distilled as follows: ‘While Europe continues to suffer under the iron fist of Nazi occupation, Britain remains battered but unbowed. DCI Frank Merlin, already contending with a booming wartime crime wave in the capital, is confronted with a baffling case: the brutal murder of a respected doctor. Following a puzzling trail that leads him into the hidden corners of clubland - and which appears to be linked to the disappearance of both British and American officers - Merlin must untangle a dark web of shocking secrets.’

With just the right balance of historical reality and finely tuned murder mystery, this book adds to the growing audience admiration of Ellis’ titular hero – and a memorable cast of unforgettable characters. A treasure of a thriller!

[Soumya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one reminded me why I should read more often instead of just binge watching Netflix thrillers. Death of an Officer has that old school detective movie feel, like something you'd see in a classic noir film but with actual depth. Mark Ellis writes scenes that play out cinematically in your head, which probably explains why I couldn't put it down.

The whole wartime London thing works better here than in most WWII movies I've seen lately. It's not overdone with constant explosions or melodrama. Instead, you get this gritty atmosphere where the city itself feels dangerous and unpredictable. DCI Frank Merlin moves through it like those detectives in films who actually think instead of just shooting their way through problems. He's methodical, which sounds boring but trust me, it's not.

What hooked me was how the mystery unfolds. It starts simple with a murdered doctor, then spirals into this complex web involving missing officers and underground clubs. Kind of reminded me of those conspiracy thrillers where you think you know what's happening, then realize you're only seeing surface level stuff. Ellis keeps revealing new layers without making it feel convoluted or trying too hard to shock you.

The pacing actually works better than most thriller movies that rush everything. Here, you get time to absorb details and piece things together yourself, which makes the payoff more satisfying. If you're like me and usually stick to watching thrillers, this book translates that genre surprisingly well to the page.

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest DCI Frank Merlin book takes place in the Spring of 1943. London is in the grip of a crime wave as rival criminal gangs continue to run their operations in the city. The body of a respected doctor is discovered and the police investigation leads them to some very unexpected places. Then another body is discovered leading to even more questions
Death of an Officer has a complex plot with lots of different strands that are conveyed by a wide variety of points of view. It was a bit disorientating at first as the view point changed quite rapidly but all of the different plot lines eventually converged into a really satisfying mystery.
As always, Mark Ellis shows a brilliant grasp of historical facts and uses these and his characters to really ground the story in its 1943 setting.
This is definitely a plot driven novel as there isn’t a huge amount of characterisation. Merlin himself is a fairly rounded character and the AC is also well fleshed out but many of the other police officers are fairly interchangeable with no real identities of their own. I think that there has been more emphasis on the characterisation in the earlier novels and the lack of it in this book made it a little less enjoyable.
Apart from that one issue, this was a very readable and intriguing mystery. Thank you to the publishers Headline, and Net Galley for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Pegboard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer by Mark Ellis continues the adventures of DCI Frank Merlin as he skillfully solves a murder without the technology we rely on today. A respected doctor is mysteriously murdered, leaving Merlin baffled, as the victim was well-liked by everyone. Initially, it was suspected that prejudice against his foreign ethnicity played a role in the crime. However, as whispers of hidden secrets begin to surface, the investigation takes a more complicated turn. Will Merlin and his team be able to untangle this web of deceit to catch the killer, especially as they realize there is a network of criminals connected to this murder?

Often, authors draw inspiration from the influences in their lives. In Death of an Officer, Mark Ellis embraces the experiences of those who lived and fought during World War II. Ellis’s parents significantly shaped his love for history and his interest in writing within this genre. I admire Ellis's creativity as he intricately weaves a maze of suspects, leading readers down complex paths related to the victim. One revelation after another begins to weigh on DCI Merlin, yet you are compelled to keep reading as the action escalates and the characters come alive.

While this book is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone novel. I highly recommend this book and author to anyone who enjoys historical novels set during World War II.

[sachinsbookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer operates in that rare space between procedural precision and genuine thriller momentum. Ellis understands something many writers miss: wartime settings aren't automatic tension generators. You have to earn it. He does.

The murdered doctor setup feels familiar initially, but Ellis subverts expectations by layering in geopolitical elements that genuinely raise stakes beyond standard whodunit territory. The missing officers subplot could have been gimmicky. Instead, it transforms the narrative into something approaching le Carré territory, where institutional secrets matter as much as individual guilt.

Frank Merlin distinguishes himself from the overcrowded detective landscape through restraint. No tortured backstory dominating every scene. No convenient intuitive leaps. Just solid investigative work under impossible conditions, which paradoxically makes him more compelling than half the damaged detectives cluttering modern crime fiction.

Where Ellis truly delivers is pacing. He resists the urge to frontload action, trusting his story enough to build methodically. The clubland investigation sequences crackle with understated menace. When revelations come, they land with weight because groundwork was laid properly.

It's exceptionally well executed. Ellis clearly studies the craft.

[Indian Booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Death of an Officer and I'm still thinking about it.

✨ The Vibe

London during the Blitz isn't just background here, it's practically a character. Darkness, destruction, desperation everywhere. You feel the weight of survival mixed with solving crimes nobody has time for.

🕵️ Frank Merlin Though

This detective gets it done without flashy drama. He's exhausted, overworked, yet refuses to let cases go cold. Watching him work through limited resources and endless obstacles hits different.

✍️ What Actually Happens

Dead gynecologist with zero obvious enemies. Then officers start vanishing. Underground club scene gets exposed. Every answer creates three new questions until suddenly everything makes horrifying sense.

😌 My Honest Take

Started slow but that's intentional. Ellis builds pressure gradually until you're completely consumed. The historical accuracy impressed me because it never feels like a lecture. You're just living in 1943 alongside people trying to survive and find truth.

💫 Read This If

You need complex mysteries that respect your intelligence. Wartime settings fascinate you. Character driven stories are your thing. Patience pays off for you.

💥 Bottom Line

Book six somehow feels fresh. Ellis hasn't lost his touch. Already hunting for the next one.

[Kalyan_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death of an Officer by Mark Ellis delivers everything you want in a wartime mystery thriller.

★ Setting and Atmosphere

Wartime London 1943 comes alive with bombed streets, rationing, and constant fear. The blackouts and chaos create perfect cover for criminals. Ellis captures the gritty reality beautifully.

★ Main Character

DCI Frank Merlin is brilliant, determined, and deeply human. He navigates impossible circumstances while maintaining his moral compass. You'll root for him from page one.

★ Plot

A respected doctor murdered in his home. Missing British and American officers. Secret clubs hiding dark truths. Everything connects in ways you won't predict.

★ Why You'll Love It

The mystery keeps you flipping pages frantically. Historical details feel immersive without overwhelming the story. Supporting characters add depth and authenticity. The ending satisfies without feeling predictable.

★ Perfect For

Fans of atmospheric crime fiction. History enthusiasts who love WWII settings. Anyone craving intelligent detective work. Readers who appreciate slow burn tension.

★ Final Thoughts

This sixth installment proves Mark Ellis understands both mystery and history. The wartime backdrop elevates every twist. Highly recommend for your winter reading list.

[Andy Wormald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 6 in the acclaimed series featuring DCI Frank Merlin

First this was a standout read, Straight away you can appreciate the quality of the writing the depth it has which adds to the story, meaningful and full of heart

Secondly the plotting of the book is so rich and intricate in its layering, the way the author then peels each layer slowly back. The country maybe in the midst of the war but for Frank and his team they have their own wars to fight

Thirdly the book has such a striking feeling to it, darkly atmospheric, it paints a rich tapestry of life in war torn London

There are two story threads running throughout the book, both equally perplexing as to why the murders have been comitted.

The book is set against the backdrop of war torn London, here the writing captures that period in distinctive tones, it takes you to a seedier side of the city but along the way it evokes the times and the people, the author takes you deep into gangland London.

The author shows how adept he is at taken a historical period staying true to period and the facts and weaving a compelling narrative, it’s a tangled web of lies and deceit which await

The characters within the book bring everything to life, wonderfully created, they belong you get a sense of who they are the type of person. As a person I like Frank, hardworking, tough, always looking to see justice served, but underneath that he also someone who puts family at the forefront of his thoughts.

It is a read which looks at male sexuality and deals with power and greed, you have to remember that homosexuality at the time was banned, the story delves into the lifes of the well to do and upper classes and the complex lives they had to lead, the lies they hid behind. One thing the book is faithful to the social attitudes of the time

There is nothing straightforward here, the book twists and turns with moments of the unexpected. I loved the pacing of the story the way it flowed building up the suspense and drama

I would say that I deliberately took my time reading so as to take everything in and soak up the atmosphere, no words are wasted

This is a compelling and gripping read, full of intrigue and mystery I was drawn in from the opening pages totally hooked

One to highly recommend

[Geeza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Death of an Officer when I was half-looking for something historical but not quite ready for a heavy war novel. I’m not sure why exactly, but the idea of London in 1943, still bruised but pushing on, felt like my cup of tea.
I inhaled this book in just a few days. Frank Merlin is the sort of detective I quietly root for — determined but not immune to the grind of war that’s wearing everyone thin. Following him through dark corners of clubland and tangled streets as he tries to work out who killed a respected doctor (and why British and American officers keep vanishing) pulled me in without much fuss.
What struck me most was how effortlessly the war backdrop seeped into every scene, not just as setting but as something gnawing at each character’s nerves. Merlin’s case isn’t simple, but it’s also not tidy, and watching him sort through secrets that no one wants dug up left me feeling strangely invested in how it all shook out.
By the end, I was oddly grateful for the way it wrapped up — not with fireworks, but with a sort of sober weight that seemed right for the time. If you enjoy crime stories that slip in under your skin and carry the echo of a world rattled by war, I’d say give this one a chance. I’m glad I did.

[Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an interesting story that blends history and crime. 'Death of an Officer' was written by Mark Ellis and focuses on police procedures during the time of war. It takes place in London and includes quite a few characters, both criminals and not.

The author has a unique way of highlighting important parts and blending them into the story. For example, politics, duty, and even justice. His writing is enjoyable to read, and the mystery unfolds slowly. If you like historical fiction with some detective work, you will enjoy this.

The story is about the murder of a doctor. The detective is Frank Merlin, and he is the one investigating it. However, it’s not a normal case. Racism, secrets, and wartime chaos are all muddled up together. It’s shocking! How can those who are dedicated to healing people become a target of hate? This is what the detective must solve.

The story is a bit slow to start, but that brings along strong character development. However, there are quite a lot of characters to keep up with, and a few who don’t even play a major role. Still, the book seems well-researched, and it’s refreshing to see an interesting detective and a good plot. Overall, it is a suspenseful and good read.

[Oishani Sarkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading became my sanctuary years ago, that quiet rebellion against endless routine. Death of an Officer arrived at the perfect moment when I desperately needed somewhere else to be. Mark Ellis handed me a portal straight into 1943 London, and I disappeared completely.

There's something profoundly comforting about losing yourself in someone else's problems, especially when they're as layered as Frank Merlin's latest case. A murdered doctor shouldn't feel like escape, yet watching Merlin navigate bombed streets and moral ambiguity while unraveling secrets felt oddly soothing. Perhaps because his world, though chaotic, follows logic. Clues lead somewhere. Persistence matters. Answers exist.

Ellis writes with this unhurried confidence that let me breathe. No frantic pacing demanding I keep up, just steady immersion. The vanished officers, the shadowy clubs, the wartime desperation, it all unfolded naturally while I curled up forgetting my own existence for hours.

What I cherished most was how the book trusted me to simply experience it without constantly grabbing my attention. It reminded me why I read, not for adrenaline or education, but for that precious feeling of being somewhere completely different, living another life entirely, if only temporarily.

[Aparajita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer demonstrates why wartime mysteries possess such enduring appeal. Mark Ellis constructs an intricate puzzle where nothing is quite as it appears, beginning with a doctor's murder that refuses simple explanations. What elevates this beyond standard procedural fare is how skillfully Ellis weaves together seemingly unrelated threads. The disappearance of military officers, the shadowy world of exclusive clubs, and wartime London's criminal underworld all converge in surprising ways. DCI Frank Merlin proves an astute guide through this labyrinth, methodically connecting dots that initially seem impossibly distant. Ellis understands that great mysteries thrive on atmosphere, and the wartime setting provides genuine tension beyond the central crime. The limited forensic technology of the era forces reliance on sharp observation and logical deduction, making the investigative process particularly satisfying. Supporting characters feel purposeful rather than decorative, each contributing meaningful pieces to the larger picture. The resolution feels earned rather than convenient, rewarding patient readers who appreciate complexity over shock value. A thoroughly engaging mystery that respects its audience's intelligence.

[Luis Gouveia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an engaging historical crime fiction series set in WWII London.

It’s hard, however, not to compare this series with John Lawton’s Inspector Troy novels. While the Troy series has been criticized for relying on coincidences to move the plot forward, I personally find its twists and surprises very engaging—something I felt was lacking in the Merlin series.

One particularly interesting aspect of this book—and the series as a whole—is the gradual unfolding of information about the crimes through a series of team-led investigations.

This gradual disclosure adds a strong sense of realism.

That said, I did find myself a bit lost during this read, struggling at times to keep track of the many layers of the investigation and the various characters.

The ending felt a bit rushed and relied on a coincidence, as if the author needed to wrap things up quickly after a long series of investigative threads from the several characters in the story.

In my opinion, this was not the strongest entry in the Merlin series and although I’ll read the next installment, it's unlikely I’ll revisit this one for a reread—unlike the Troy series, which I’ve returned to several times.

[Rohan Jethloja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Ellis nails the authenticity of 1943 London in ways most fiction glosses over. Having watched countless documentaries on the Home Front, I appreciated how accurately he portrays the chaos beyond the battlefield. The black market thriving, crime spiking during blackouts, law enforcement stretched impossibly thin while still expected to maintain order. This isn't romanticized wartime Britain. Ellis shows the ugly opportunism that flourished when societal structures weakened.

The investigation into the doctor's death mirrors real complexities faced by Scotland Yard during this period, operating without modern resources while dealing with unprecedented criminal activity. What struck me most was the political tension woven throughout, particularly involving American and British military personnel. The club scene Ellis explores reflects actual wartime London, where different worlds collided under extraordinary circumstances. Merlin's methodical approach feels period appropriate, relying on interviews and deduction rather than technology. For anyone fascinated by this era's social history, this offers compelling insight wrapped in solid storytelling. Refreshingly grounded.

[Soochi Sandhiya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer is the sixth book in Mark Ellis's DCI Frank Merlin series, but unfortunately, it's my first one, and I'm thinking why I didn't pick it before. The thriller starts when a respected gynaecologist is found murdered with a jade Ganesh(Hindu Deity) statue under suspicious circumstances. This draws Detective Merlin into a complex investigation involving multiple layers and characters. His character is well-written to incorporate sharpness and integrity into the details. His attention to detail and thoughtful decisions help the multiple viewpoints without confusion and gives a total detective vibes.
The author has woven historical details seamlessly into the plot, capturing and vividly presenting the 'then' scenario, which helps grip the storyline with rich narration. The central plot moves at a moderate pace, with enough suspenseful subplots that keep readers hooked until the end.
This was a well-written detective and I felt as if I could pick the clues and predict "What next," but that was where the author would add another suspenseful layer.

[Megha Ghosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book totally caught me off guard. I picked up Death of an Officer expecting another typical detective story, but Mark Ellis really knows how to keep you guessing. The whole vibe of London during the war makes everything feel more intense and unpredictable. You've got this murdered doctor, missing soldiers, and these sketchy underground clubs all tangled together in ways you don't see coming.

Frank Merlin isn't your average cop either. He's smart without being annoying about it, and watching him piece things together actually makes sense instead of feeling like random luck. What I loved most was how nothing felt forced. The clues are there if you pay attention, but Ellis doesn't spoon feed you answers. The wartime chaos adds this extra layer where anyone could be hiding something, which kept me suspicious of literally everyone.

By the end, when everything clicks into place, it's satisfying in that way where you want to immediately tell someone about it. Definitely worth reading if you're into mysteries that actually challenge you.

[Tony M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Death of an Officer, set in London during World War 2, has a satisfyingly complex plot and cleverly weaves together the strands of 2 separate murder investigations. The story highlights the major criminality that was ever-present in London throughout the war, an historically accurate depiction that will surprise many. The sordid underbelly of the nation’s capital is exposed in a forthright manner. However, I was disappointed that the narrative failed to create a really convincing atmosphere of wartime London despite references to blackouts, bomb sites and the heavy presence of military personnel. I was also disappointed that there was minimal characterisation with various law enforcement characters - be they English, Welsh, Irish, American, etc - all conversing in a strangely stilted, formal manner. The dialogue between members of the criminal fraternity has a more authentic feel. Overall, a decent police procedural.

[Rohit Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer pulls you straight into wartime London, where explosives aren't the only things tearing the city apart. Mark Ellis crafts a gritty investigation that feels authentically dark and claustrophobic. DCI Frank Merlin is the kind of detective I'd want leading a case, someone who digs through layers of deception without ever losing sight of justice.

The murder of a respected doctor spirals into something far more sinister, connecting missing officers and underground clubs in ways that keep you second guessing everything. What really hooked me was how Ellis uses the war itself as more than just scenery.

The chaos, the fear, the opportunistic criminals thriving in darkness, it all adds weight to every clue Merlin uncovers. The pacing never drags, building tension methodically until the final reveal hits hard. For anyone craving atmospheric crime fiction with historical depth, this delivers completely. Highly recommended for thriller fans.

[Chithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved following Frank Merlin through this investigation. He's exactly the kind of detective I enjoy reading about, someone who genuinely cares about solving cases and won't give up no matter how complicated things get. The way he handles everyone from witnesses to suspects just feels so real and engaging.

The plot kept me hooked from start to finish. A murdered doctor leads to missing officers, then suddenly you're deep in London's secret club world during wartime. Every chapter something new happens that pushes the story forward. I found myself staying up way too late because I needed to know what happened next.

Mark Ellis makes wartime London feel alive without boring you with too many details. The action balances perfectly with the mystery solving parts. Nothing felt dragged out or unnecessary. By the time I reached the end, I immediately wanted to read more about Merlin's cases. Absolutely recommend this book!!

[Rachel N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Death of an Officer follows DCI Frank Merlin as he investigates two deaths in wartime London. The first is the body of a man dumped in a bombsite to disguise the fact he has been murdered, and the second is the murder of a highly regarded Indian doctor. The investigations lead into a murky world of illicit parties and gangsters, a seedier side of London at the time which is not often portrayed.

This was a decent police procedural and the historical period was well done but it felt a little lacking in depth for many of the characters. Obviously, though, this is part of a series so that may well have been built up more for those that have read the others. The story worked well as a standalone book though and I enjoyed it.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.

[Winibrop · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death of an Officer, by Mark Ellis, is a well-written and compelling wartime mystery tale set in 1943 London. This book pulled me in and held my attention. I love learning some history when I read, and this book certainly does that. Detective Frank Merlin investigates the terrible murder of a well-known gynecologist, only to be pulled further into a complex puzzle of secrets, missing cops, and gangland activity. Ellis brilliantly describes the noir mood of a city under assault, with historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling. Merlin is a smart, determined detective whose moral compass and intuition serve him well. This sixth installment in the series is filled with mystery, well-wrought characters, and crisp dialogue. It's a must-read for fans of historical crime fiction and vintage detective dramas. Highly recommended.