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DC Smith #11
The Late Lord Thorpe
This is DC Smith’s third investigation with the Diver and Diver Associates agency. They have been asked by a member of Norfolk’s aristocracy to look into the tragic death of her younger brother, Freddie, the late Lord Thorpe of the title. The inquest verdict was of misadventure, but it isn’t long before Smith begins to suspect there has been a serious miscarriage of justice.
455 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2024
376 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Peter Grainger
71 books875 followersA British author, the writer Peter Grainger is a well known novelist of mystery fiction, largely focused on detective lead investigations. This his been the prime focus for much of his career, as he takes much of his inspiration from that of other infamous British detectives, such as Inspector Morse. The influence is clearly evident here, as he brings his own detective, DC Smith, to life, along with other books as well. Setting his mysteries firmly within the world of British detective fiction it is clear where his tastes lie as an author of his increasingly popular stories, stories that only increase in popularity as time goes on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
August 5, 2024
As expected, the only thing disappointing about the new Grainger book is that I’ve finished it and have to wait now for the next one.
Such a distinctive and clear voice as we enter DC Smiths fascinating and astute brain that I hear it in my own head for days as I observe myself observing!
Yes- the intrigue and untangling of the specific case is great but truly I just come to spend time with the characters. The minute I end the books I miss them dearly.
Hoping there is more in the future.
I encourage everyone to pick up any of his books and read ( or listen) to them.
Well- The other sad thing, even tho I said there was only one and in no way a criticism but just truth-
I wish I had at least one of them on paper. Digital doesn’t last and sit on my bookshelf to savor. But I understand the issue. Just saying….
Such a distinctive and clear voice as we enter DC Smiths fascinating and astute brain that I hear it in my own head for days as I observe myself observing!
Yes- the intrigue and untangling of the specific case is great but truly I just come to spend time with the characters. The minute I end the books I miss them dearly.
Hoping there is more in the future.
I encourage everyone to pick up any of his books and read ( or listen) to them.
Well- The other sad thing, even tho I said there was only one and in no way a criticism but just truth-
I wish I had at least one of them on paper. Digital doesn’t last and sit on my bookshelf to savor. But I understand the issue. Just saying….
September 11, 2024
Just another great DC Smith book. I do so wish I knew him in person.
August 2, 2024
Another great Peter Grainger
I don't know why his "crime" books seem so different to others. It's maybe the asides and semi confidential comments both the author and "hero" come up with as well as believable and constantly interesting plots....
I don't know why his "crime" books seem so different to others. It's maybe the asides and semi confidential comments both the author and "hero" come up with as well as believable and constantly interesting plots....
August 19, 2024
Simply masterful.
Peter Grainger’s DC Smith series, as well as the Kings Lake series and the Willows and Lane, as yet, trilogy, are simply masterful. I cannot overstate the excellence of these books and their characters. Grainger knows his players, plots carefully, and never fails to write just enough. Having been reminded about events of earlier books by events in this book, I think I shall start the series over, though I doubt DC would appreciate the construction of this sentence.
Peter Grainger’s DC Smith series, as well as the Kings Lake series and the Willows and Lane, as yet, trilogy, are simply masterful. I cannot overstate the excellence of these books and their characters. Grainger knows his players, plots carefully, and never fails to write just enough. Having been reminded about events of earlier books by events in this book, I think I shall start the series over, though I doubt DC would appreciate the construction of this sentence.
May 4, 2025
I really enjoy the books in this D.C. Smith series, this 11th the latest from Grainger. I usually cannot put it down once started, but this time I walked down to the Chicago Art Institute for one of my regular visits and was shocked to find the whole city in attendance (so it seemed) due to spring break. It is usually a quiet refuge.
I was so happy to return to the quiet of my latest installment of the Smith series which included endearing scenes of holiday preparations including a Christmas goose but the crime investigated by Smith was gruesome and challenging. He was up for the job as usual.
You need to start this series at the beginning.
Kindle Unlimited
I was so happy to return to the quiet of my latest installment of the Smith series which included endearing scenes of holiday preparations including a Christmas goose but the crime investigated by Smith was gruesome and challenging. He was up for the job as usual.
You need to start this series at the beginning.
Kindle Unlimited
April 5, 2025
This is a review of the whole 11-book series…
*************************************
I stumbled upon An Accidental Death on Audible while browsing for something that came free with my subscription — and a few minutes in, I was completely hooked. I had no idea at the time that this would become not only my favorite detective series, but one of my favorite series of all time. When I discovered there were ten more books in the DC Smith Investigation series by Peter Grainger — all included in my subscription — I was ecstatic!
What sets this series apart is its quiet brilliance. The writing is elegant but unpretentious. The plots are thoughtful and cleverly woven, not rushed or overly dramatized. Each case stands on its own while contributing to a greater arc, and every single book holds up — something I rarely experience with long-running series. There wasn’t one installment that felt like a dip in quality. If anything, the series just kept getting better with every new release.
DC Smith himself is one of THE most memorable, charming, and well-drawn characters I’ve ever encountered. Dry, intelligent, modest, and often quietly hilarious, he feels like someone you genuinely know — someone you’d trust, listen to, and be endlessly intrigued by. Over the course of the series, more characters are introduced and fleshed out, and soon enough, they start to feel like a real team, with dynamics and inside jokes that made me feel like I was right there with them.
The character development is what truly makes this series exceptional. These people aren’t just solving crimes — they’re living their lives, with quirks, backstories, ambitions, relationships, and heartbreaks. It’s all so well-balanced. The pacing never lags, and the humor, subtle as it often is, brought a warmth that made the series deeply enjoyable, even when dealing with darker themes.
The narrator, Gildart Jackson, deserves just as much praise as the author. His performance brought the entire cast to life. The tone, delivery, and emotional nuance he brought to each character elevated the writing — and I genuinely believe this series owes a large part of its success to how perfectly he captured its voice.
I only wish these books were available in print — I would absolutely own physical copies in a heartbeat. I’ve recommended this series to everyone who would listen, and I truly believe it deserves more attention. There’s also a spin-off series (or perhaps two?) featuring some of the characters, and I fully intend to listen to that next. I will actually read EVERYTHING Peter Granger writes, period!
In short: this series is a gem. If you’re looking for a smart, character-driven detective series that builds a world you’ll never want to leave — this is it. In my humble opinion, DS Smith belongs with the best of them – Sherlock, Miss Marple, Poirot, Dupin, etc… Just please go read those books. They’re the epitome of brilliance.
*************************************
I stumbled upon An Accidental Death on Audible while browsing for something that came free with my subscription — and a few minutes in, I was completely hooked. I had no idea at the time that this would become not only my favorite detective series, but one of my favorite series of all time. When I discovered there were ten more books in the DC Smith Investigation series by Peter Grainger — all included in my subscription — I was ecstatic!
What sets this series apart is its quiet brilliance. The writing is elegant but unpretentious. The plots are thoughtful and cleverly woven, not rushed or overly dramatized. Each case stands on its own while contributing to a greater arc, and every single book holds up — something I rarely experience with long-running series. There wasn’t one installment that felt like a dip in quality. If anything, the series just kept getting better with every new release.
DC Smith himself is one of THE most memorable, charming, and well-drawn characters I’ve ever encountered. Dry, intelligent, modest, and often quietly hilarious, he feels like someone you genuinely know — someone you’d trust, listen to, and be endlessly intrigued by. Over the course of the series, more characters are introduced and fleshed out, and soon enough, they start to feel like a real team, with dynamics and inside jokes that made me feel like I was right there with them.
The character development is what truly makes this series exceptional. These people aren’t just solving crimes — they’re living their lives, with quirks, backstories, ambitions, relationships, and heartbreaks. It’s all so well-balanced. The pacing never lags, and the humor, subtle as it often is, brought a warmth that made the series deeply enjoyable, even when dealing with darker themes.
The narrator, Gildart Jackson, deserves just as much praise as the author. His performance brought the entire cast to life. The tone, delivery, and emotional nuance he brought to each character elevated the writing — and I genuinely believe this series owes a large part of its success to how perfectly he captured its voice.
I only wish these books were available in print — I would absolutely own physical copies in a heartbeat. I’ve recommended this series to everyone who would listen, and I truly believe it deserves more attention. There’s also a spin-off series (or perhaps two?) featuring some of the characters, and I fully intend to listen to that next. I will actually read EVERYTHING Peter Granger writes, period!
In short: this series is a gem. If you’re looking for a smart, character-driven detective series that builds a world you’ll never want to leave — this is it. In my humble opinion, DS Smith belongs with the best of them – Sherlock, Miss Marple, Poirot, Dupin, etc… Just please go read those books. They’re the epitome of brilliance.
August 28, 2024
Another great story
You need to write a book every month. Ha! Nothing this good can be easy. Not being a writer I cannot imagine how hard it is.
I read many mysteries. I find in most to know when to skip passages or even chapters. I am not sure why but when I get that twitch in your books to maby skip some I can’t do it because each sentence is important. I feel involved with him. I cannot miss anything.
I feel like I am actually there feeling the emotions upon each revelation. You don’t leave the first person perspective. That draws me in and it becomes personal.
I think that In my dreams i wish I could be that smart, clever and perceptive as DC Smith. I go with it and I am him.
Thanks for the promotion from my regular self.
I do Look forward to my nightly reading, (45 min per evening). Taking it slow as don’t want it to end. I am savoring every second. What are you doing to me.
The book is done now and a feeling of satisfaction and loneliness envelopes. Thank you.
You need to write a book every month. Ha! Nothing this good can be easy. Not being a writer I cannot imagine how hard it is.
I read many mysteries. I find in most to know when to skip passages or even chapters. I am not sure why but when I get that twitch in your books to maby skip some I can’t do it because each sentence is important. I feel involved with him. I cannot miss anything.
I feel like I am actually there feeling the emotions upon each revelation. You don’t leave the first person perspective. That draws me in and it becomes personal.
I think that In my dreams i wish I could be that smart, clever and perceptive as DC Smith. I go with it and I am him.
Thanks for the promotion from my regular self.
I do Look forward to my nightly reading, (45 min per evening). Taking it slow as don’t want it to end. I am savoring every second. What are you doing to me.
The book is done now and a feeling of satisfaction and loneliness envelopes. Thank you.
August 11, 2024
**POSSIBLE SPOILERS**
I generally love all of the D.C. Smith novels. I was a little disappointed in this one because the real villain(s) are not identified, let alone taken to task in any way. Otherwise it was exactly what I enjoy about a police procedural -- methodical step-by-step gathering of evidence building to a satisfying conclusion. The methodical part fell a bit short in this D.C. Smith outing because the the murderer(s) are suggested by the mounting evidence but not clearly named. I did enjoy the developing relationships with the Divers and others at that agency.
I generally love all of the D.C. Smith novels. I was a little disappointed in this one because the real villain(s) are not identified, let alone taken to task in any way. Otherwise it was exactly what I enjoy about a police procedural -- methodical step-by-step gathering of evidence building to a satisfying conclusion. The methodical part fell a bit short in this D.C. Smith outing because the the murderer(s) are suggested by the mounting evidence but not clearly named. I did enjoy the developing relationships with the Divers and others at that agency.
November 25, 2024
I am an enormous fan of Peter Grainger’s book series on Kingslake and the spin-off DC Smith novels. I choose to listen to these novels because of the brilliance that is Gildart Jackson and his reading of this book was no exception. While I usually enjoy Grainger’s descriptions and the character driven nature of his novels, for some reason I struggled a little here. I grew frustrated with what felt like a slower pace, of coffe blends and the quality of the china. The resolution , which I assume or at least hope will be the subject of a future Kingslake novel, was a little unsatisfying.
October 2, 2024
Oh Mr. Grainger you have done it again. I put off reading this one because I hate when they end. The characters are wonderful, even the not so nice ones. I did not like the cover at all, however. I'm sure Freddie Thorpe was a much more handsome man. Fascinating investigative procedural. Smith's brain is amazing, intuitive, compassionate, and oh so clever. Please send us another one soon!
November 1, 2024
Needs some serious editing. Plotless word vomit.
October 29, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I whole-heartedly love the characters and stories in the DC Smith series. I don't suppose one would have to read them in order but there is a lot of history, personal growth, and world building one would miss. Plus nearly every book is a 5 heart winner. The tip to amazing may be the stellar characters, plots and narration by Gildart Jackson.
The Late Lord Thorpe is an effort to find out how he really died. His sister is still grieving but just feels the inquest was off. She hires Diver & Diver, ie Smith, to investigate. Taking a case without police information and support is a different path. People don't have to talk to you. But Smith and his developing new team are intelligent and savvy. There are a few advantages to not being police as well.
I love how Smith is creating a whole new team with diverse skills to continue solving problems. Ones which may not always be police matters but sometimes are. They may show times when the police have been ineffectual, influenced or distracted. It makes the relationship with the police a bit delicate.
There is also a balance with keeping the client informed yet not too optimistic or too dismal about the possible outcomes. This case is tricky with political factors trying to obscure what really happened and why.
Another winner and I'm always excited to read more. They are absolute favorites.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson is a favorite narrator of mine and I am enjoying his performance. Hearing his voices just makes me happy as with this author I know I am in for a treat. I can recognize characters because he has distinct voices for them. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I whole-heartedly love the characters and stories in the DC Smith series. I don't suppose one would have to read them in order but there is a lot of history, personal growth, and world building one would miss. Plus nearly every book is a 5 heart winner. The tip to amazing may be the stellar characters, plots and narration by Gildart Jackson.
The Late Lord Thorpe is an effort to find out how he really died. His sister is still grieving but just feels the inquest was off. She hires Diver & Diver, ie Smith, to investigate. Taking a case without police information and support is a different path. People don't have to talk to you. But Smith and his developing new team are intelligent and savvy. There are a few advantages to not being police as well.
I love how Smith is creating a whole new team with diverse skills to continue solving problems. Ones which may not always be police matters but sometimes are. They may show times when the police have been ineffectual, influenced or distracted. It makes the relationship with the police a bit delicate.
There is also a balance with keeping the client informed yet not too optimistic or too dismal about the possible outcomes. This case is tricky with political factors trying to obscure what really happened and why.
Another winner and I'm always excited to read more. They are absolute favorites.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson is a favorite narrator of mine and I am enjoying his performance. Hearing his voices just makes me happy as with this author I know I am in for a treat. I can recognize characters because he has distinct voices for them. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
June 1, 2025
Did it keep my interest? 5. I was angry when I finished this book. Angry because there are no more DC Smiths written and I zoomed through this one too quickly.
Did I enjoy the topic? 5. I wonder if Smith would make a fun neighbor. He’s a bit aloof, but he has a great sarcastic sense of humor. We would invite him and Jo over for a neighborhood fire pit night. I’d have trouble not treating him like a celebrity.
Was the dialogue realistic? 5. This is me with Smith at our fire pit.
Me: David, do you mind if I call you DC … oh, ok. David it is.
Can I get you an IPA? No? Yes, we do have tea.
Can I just say, I love your work. You are so brilliant. I don’t know how you manage to solve all those crimes.
While we have you here, I wonder if you could help us solve a neighborhood issue? Someone is putting their trash in my bins without my consent…. Oh, you have to go already? Ok, come again, DC, I mean David …
Would I recommend to Jen (smart, discerning reader)? 5. She’s read two and will read more!
Would I have recommended to my Mom (read for entertainment)? 5. I would have Mom in my DC Smith book club. Jen, Mom and myself will be the founders of this fake book club and we will evangelize to everyone we meet.
Quality of narrator? 5. My wife used to co chair the Newburyport film festival. She just told me they have had narrators, in addition to writers, at the festival. Imagine if she brought over Gildart Jackson! You are not suppose to meet your heroes, but I’d have to share a cigar with him.
Did I enjoy the topic? 5. I wonder if Smith would make a fun neighbor. He’s a bit aloof, but he has a great sarcastic sense of humor. We would invite him and Jo over for a neighborhood fire pit night. I’d have trouble not treating him like a celebrity.
Was the dialogue realistic? 5. This is me with Smith at our fire pit.
Me: David, do you mind if I call you DC … oh, ok. David it is.
Can I get you an IPA? No? Yes, we do have tea.
Can I just say, I love your work. You are so brilliant. I don’t know how you manage to solve all those crimes.
While we have you here, I wonder if you could help us solve a neighborhood issue? Someone is putting their trash in my bins without my consent…. Oh, you have to go already? Ok, come again, DC, I mean David …
Would I recommend to Jen (smart, discerning reader)? 5. She’s read two and will read more!
Would I have recommended to my Mom (read for entertainment)? 5. I would have Mom in my DC Smith book club. Jen, Mom and myself will be the founders of this fake book club and we will evangelize to everyone we meet.
Quality of narrator? 5. My wife used to co chair the Newburyport film festival. She just told me they have had narrators, in addition to writers, at the festival. Imagine if she brought over Gildart Jackson! You are not suppose to meet your heroes, but I’d have to share a cigar with him.
August 4, 2024
DC Smith catches a case
British mystery. DC continues as a private investigator to work another unusual case. Settling in a little more with the agency, with colleagues' characters gradually becoming richer. Clever, witty and engaging, Grainger writes a tale that keeps me happily occupied for many hours. Serious investigation tale, but DC does make me laugh with his sharpness, and love his relationship development, professionally and at home. The characters are complexed and nuanced, as seen through DC's sharp eyes, and DC is simply one of the best in British mystery field. Grainger writes good character. In varied ways, the author deftly exposes DCs insights and conclusions, through clues, conversations, highlighting quick expressions, and musings from DCs as he dissects the gathered details. Not a lot of new characters, but new layers added to many. Recommend you read all Grainger's books, as the background complexities could be distracting, the comings and goings of various bit players confusing, without knowing the full histories. And the histories of the DC's cases are well written and well worth the time. And follow the author on amazon: each time a book comes out its a complefe surprise and without watning...always worried i will miss one. Ready for the next!
British mystery. DC continues as a private investigator to work another unusual case. Settling in a little more with the agency, with colleagues' characters gradually becoming richer. Clever, witty and engaging, Grainger writes a tale that keeps me happily occupied for many hours. Serious investigation tale, but DC does make me laugh with his sharpness, and love his relationship development, professionally and at home. The characters are complexed and nuanced, as seen through DC's sharp eyes, and DC is simply one of the best in British mystery field. Grainger writes good character. In varied ways, the author deftly exposes DCs insights and conclusions, through clues, conversations, highlighting quick expressions, and musings from DCs as he dissects the gathered details. Not a lot of new characters, but new layers added to many. Recommend you read all Grainger's books, as the background complexities could be distracting, the comings and goings of various bit players confusing, without knowing the full histories. And the histories of the DC's cases are well written and well worth the time. And follow the author on amazon: each time a book comes out its a complefe surprise and without watning...always worried i will miss one. Ready for the next!
December 4, 2024
For me it was the weakest off this series. I felt like supporting characters were not developed very well.
September 23, 2024
Did not want to finish this very good book, it ended on a cliff-hanger, but in a very satisfying way, as you know that the mills of justice are going to continue to grind. In fact, it was a very good place to end it, as the main characters exit the story at this point, but I wanted to find out more about each of them, and hope the next book will come along soon, so that I can.
August 22, 2024
As Always, Love His the Works
While the plot is compelling, a page turner, Grainger use of language that makes me linger. Like a delicious chocolate, you want to hold on to it, roll the words about, extend your pleasure.
While the plot is compelling, a page turner, Grainger use of language that makes me linger. Like a delicious chocolate, you want to hold on to it, roll the words about, extend your pleasure.
August 2, 2024
Enjoyed it, but didn’t seem to be as much DC being DC as others in this journey.
Tough to explain I know, but kinda think one more draft or one more rewrite would’ve been beneficial
Tough to explain I know, but kinda think one more draft or one more rewrite would’ve been beneficial
January 20, 2025
I just absolutely love DC Smith books would love reading one a week. The storyline was excellent, the characters just keep giving. No negatives at all hurry with the next one
Read
June 6, 2025I really like these books! Good work, Peter Grainger! Keep ‘em coming!
August 6, 2025
The part about an audiobook narrator developing a fan following… yes, absolutely 💯 #GildartJackson
January 11, 2026
DC's out with a wimper
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2024
While I enjoyed this book, as I have all others in the series, it isn't up to the author's usual 5 star standard for me. As another reviewer noted, it needed further attention before publication. When a character stated how long a property had been in her family she claimed there 258 years from 1775 to 2023, when the book is set. The word "unphased" was used instead of "unfazed." There was at least one more incorrect word, and several punctuation errors. These errors unfortunately took me out of the pleasure of reading the story. Hopefully this is a one time problem and the next book will be back to higher standards.
October 12, 2024
A Master of his craft
What distinguishes Peter Grainger is his sense of life's passage, along with characters plot. This has made DC Smith the equal of the other great detectives. One of the best drawn of them all
What distinguishes Peter Grainger is his sense of life's passage, along with characters plot. This has made DC Smith the equal of the other great detectives. One of the best drawn of them all
October 31, 2024
Well, I guess I am the odd one out on this, given all the four and five star reviews. I don't mind.
I'm a fan of this series and particularly enjoy Gildart Jackson's narration of the audio books. But this one? Five hours in and almost nothing has happened.
In previous books, Smith's rambles on topics other than the crime are enjoyable - they add to the wonderful atmosphere that Grainger is so talented at creating. But here, there just isn't enough plot and the rambling becomes overbearing. Do I care that Smith's dog has one walk with a leash and other walks without a leash? Or that there are over 700 hospitals and medical clinics in London? And further, that there are x-odd of these starting with some letter of the alphabet? Sorry, Peter, I do not.
And maybe I missed something, but the whole business, where only some mysterious could have done it? Um... ordinary people are perfectly capable of taking this action. But that apparently is not possible? I didn't get it.
And then, maybe worst of all, is the audio book production. The volume fluctuates badly, and there is some kind of strange echo or perhaps the sound of Jackson's breath as it hit the microphone, particularly when he pronounces the letter P, as in the character's name "Polly." I just could not keep listening. Sadly, this is a DNF for me and a huge disappointment.
I'm a fan of this series and particularly enjoy Gildart Jackson's narration of the audio books. But this one? Five hours in and almost nothing has happened.
In previous books, Smith's rambles on topics other than the crime are enjoyable - they add to the wonderful atmosphere that Grainger is so talented at creating. But here, there just isn't enough plot and the rambling becomes overbearing. Do I care that Smith's dog has one walk with a leash and other walks without a leash? Or that there are over 700 hospitals and medical clinics in London? And further, that there are x-odd of these starting with some letter of the alphabet? Sorry, Peter, I do not.
And maybe I missed something, but the whole business, where only some mysterious could have done it? Um... ordinary people are perfectly capable of taking this action. But that apparently is not possible? I didn't get it.
And then, maybe worst of all, is the audio book production. The volume fluctuates badly, and there is some kind of strange echo or perhaps the sound of Jackson's breath as it hit the microphone, particularly when he pronounces the letter P, as in the character's name "Polly." I just could not keep listening. Sadly, this is a DNF for me and a huge disappointment.
October 15, 2025
Peter Grainger’s books featuring DC Smith are pure gold! In the King’s Lakes series, Smith was nearing retirement age and the author ‘retired’ him allowing other characters in the King’s Lake precinct to become more prominent players. Grainger’s characters are well developed, anything but cliche, and so the series continued with Smith in cameo appearances. Now as a feature character, still retired but accepting an occasional case from Diver and Diver, Smith is back in full swing - and I’m all for it!
In this book, Lady Caroline Thorpe cannot come to terms with her younger brother’s accidental death. While the death was ruled as misadventure, drowning after taking drugs and drink, she has heard other accounts that her brother, Lord Thorpe, was not under the influence of either. She asks Diver and Diver to see if the coroner’s report can be reevaluated. Smith takes the case.
The investigation leads to powerful and nefarious people with a theme that echoes current events. This is an engaging book with compelling characters. I listened to the audio version, narrated by Gildart Jackson. There were so many references to audiobook readers and the difficulties those readers encounter, I looked back to see if the book was dedicated to Jackson! (It was dedicated to Grainger’s wife, Caroline). And yes, DC Smith, you gave Jo good advice that once you pick a reader for your audiobook series, listeners want you to stick with that single reader.
In this book, Lady Caroline Thorpe cannot come to terms with her younger brother’s accidental death. While the death was ruled as misadventure, drowning after taking drugs and drink, she has heard other accounts that her brother, Lord Thorpe, was not under the influence of either. She asks Diver and Diver to see if the coroner’s report can be reevaluated. Smith takes the case.
The investigation leads to powerful and nefarious people with a theme that echoes current events. This is an engaging book with compelling characters. I listened to the audio version, narrated by Gildart Jackson. There were so many references to audiobook readers and the difficulties those readers encounter, I looked back to see if the book was dedicated to Jackson! (It was dedicated to Grainger’s wife, Caroline). And yes, DC Smith, you gave Jo good advice that once you pick a reader for your audiobook series, listeners want you to stick with that single reader.
December 31, 2024
Unabridged audio e version read by Gildart Jackson borrowed from the Norfolk Libby.
I'm so pleased this series has continued after DC Smith's near-end-of-life experience and his retirement from the force and even more pleased that Libby/Norfolk Library are making it available. I feel I know King's Lake really well. I'm not sure I could cope with a conversation with Smith in real life, his dry humour would take me aback. I wouldn't known when he was joking. But it's a joy to listen to. 4* as it got a bit political and therefore more complicated to listen to without the book when it started veering into arms for Israel. I presume this must have been written before the October 7th attack and all that has evolved since.
Well that's my last and 73rd book of 2024 ... not quite the 75 of previous years but 73 is one every 5 days which I think is pretty impressive with an intense full-time job and the fact many are audio books taking 12+ hours ... I've probably spent the equivalent of a whole month, morning, noon and night either reading or listening! Goodness. Imagine what I could achieve with that time? But I'd rather be reading!!!!!!
I'm so pleased this series has continued after DC Smith's near-end-of-life experience and his retirement from the force and even more pleased that Libby/Norfolk Library are making it available. I feel I know King's Lake really well. I'm not sure I could cope with a conversation with Smith in real life, his dry humour would take me aback. I wouldn't known when he was joking. But it's a joy to listen to. 4* as it got a bit political and therefore more complicated to listen to without the book when it started veering into arms for Israel. I presume this must have been written before the October 7th attack and all that has evolved since.
Well that's my last and 73rd book of 2024 ... not quite the 75 of previous years but 73 is one every 5 days which I think is pretty impressive with an intense full-time job and the fact many are audio books taking 12+ hours ... I've probably spent the equivalent of a whole month, morning, noon and night either reading or listening! Goodness. Imagine what I could achieve with that time? But I'd rather be reading!!!!!!
December 27, 2025
This is my third Grainger novel. One thing is for certain: like the neighborhood who lived behind my teenage home and had numerous skinny dipping parties, he never disappoints.
I missed the novel that delivered Det. Smith to private work, but we know the questions and angles because the technique is mostly the marvelously handled "same."
This novel also differs in that the ending is not tied up with a red ribbon and bow. Unlike other "Perry Mason" endings, this book leaves open doors which allow for the next novel's narrative, or nothing at all.
Description of modern British aristocracy rites and rights enlightened me. The entwining of certain events with Middle East issues also enlightened me as the U.K.'s perspective of Palestine is different from the U.S.A. perspective of the same.
This is the 11th novel of arguably the most underrated and inquisitively talented gum shoe of modern literature. Det. Smith never disappoints.
I missed the novel that delivered Det. Smith to private work, but we know the questions and angles because the technique is mostly the marvelously handled "same."
This novel also differs in that the ending is not tied up with a red ribbon and bow. Unlike other "Perry Mason" endings, this book leaves open doors which allow for the next novel's narrative, or nothing at all.
Description of modern British aristocracy rites and rights enlightened me. The entwining of certain events with Middle East issues also enlightened me as the U.K.'s perspective of Palestine is different from the U.S.A. perspective of the same.
This is the 11th novel of arguably the most underrated and inquisitively talented gum shoe of modern literature. Det. Smith never disappoints.
January 10, 2025
I am always a happy camper when a new DC Smith book comes out. They’re always such entertaining stories and this one was no exception. Smith has retired from the police and this is his third case working for the PI firm of Diver & Diver. Lady Caroline Thorpe’s brother Freddie drowned in a swimming pool after a party and the inquest ruled it death by misadventure. But Lady Caroline doesn’t agree with the verdict and wants the investigation reopened. She hires D & D to find her reasons to call for that.
Time spent with DC is always enjoyable. I love his wit and intelligence; his emphasis on proper grammar. And he works more with his fellow employees this time, especially Polly, who matches him in intelligence and a basic understanding of how to move an investigation forward. I can only hope we see more of her in future books. They quickly determine that there’s a lot more here than meets the eye. Someone doesn’t want the case reopened, but who and why? It’s an intriguing storyline that kept me engaged throughout. It’s proof that a good mystery doesn’t need violence or action to be interesting. I found the ending to be perfect.
And Gildart Jackson is just the perfect narrator for this series and takes my enjoyment to another level. He perfectly embodies DC. There is a hysterical segment about Jo trying to find a narrator for her books. I can only imagine Grainger writing it just to try and crack Jackson up.
Time spent with DC is always enjoyable. I love his wit and intelligence; his emphasis on proper grammar. And he works more with his fellow employees this time, especially Polly, who matches him in intelligence and a basic understanding of how to move an investigation forward. I can only hope we see more of her in future books. They quickly determine that there’s a lot more here than meets the eye. Someone doesn’t want the case reopened, but who and why? It’s an intriguing storyline that kept me engaged throughout. It’s proof that a good mystery doesn’t need violence or action to be interesting. I found the ending to be perfect.
And Gildart Jackson is just the perfect narrator for this series and takes my enjoyment to another level. He perfectly embodies DC. There is a hysterical segment about Jo trying to find a narrator for her books. I can only imagine Grainger writing it just to try and crack Jackson up.
July 26, 2025
I am a fan of Peter Grainger's series, all of them. This latest in the D.C. Smith series tells the story of Smith's third case while working for Diver & Diver. It seems he is now invested in the work. He and Polly, the full-time investigator, work together and Smith finds her up to snuff. Catherine Diver has her biggest role and Smith finds her up to snuff too.
So what's the case? The sister of young Lord Thorpe (aka Freddie) is not happy with the coroner's report on Freddie's death and she wants Smith to find evidence that will lead to the decision being re-examined. Things do not add up and there appears to have been some slipshod police work on this one plus some bigwigs doing bad things. And I bet the next in this series or the Kings Lake series will have Waters tracking down the truth.
So what's the case? The sister of young Lord Thorpe (aka Freddie) is not happy with the coroner's report on Freddie's death and she wants Smith to find evidence that will lead to the decision being re-examined. Things do not add up and there appears to have been some slipshod police work on this one plus some bigwigs doing bad things. And I bet the next in this series or the Kings Lake series will have Waters tracking down the truth.
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