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Kane and Granger #1
A Body on the Flats
Meet Detective Edison Kane. South End murder squad’s finest. Three months ago, his wife was killed on a night out. She wanted him there with her, but he always put work first. And the killer’s never been caught. Now he thinks he’s ready to be back at work . . .
Until a body washes up. On the godforsaken mudflats near Leigh-on-Sea. One look at the dead man’s face, and Kane feels himself start to unravel.
Where the eyes should be, there are only empty sockets.
Kane’s mobile pings with an anonymous message. Murder was so much easier than I thought. See no evil . . .
Everyone knows how that saying goes . . .
It’s up to Kane to stop the twisted killer, before they write their perfect ending.
But he couldn’t protect his wife — and can’t get justice for her now she’s dead and gone. Why should this case be any different?
Until a body washes up. On the godforsaken mudflats near Leigh-on-Sea. One look at the dead man’s face, and Kane feels himself start to unravel.
Where the eyes should be, there are only empty sockets.
Kane’s mobile pings with an anonymous message. Murder was so much easier than I thought. See no evil . . .
Everyone knows how that saying goes . . .
It’s up to Kane to stop the twisted killer, before they write their perfect ending.
But he couldn’t protect his wife — and can’t get justice for her now she’s dead and gone. Why should this case be any different?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2024
627 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Max Manning
9 books65 followersMax Manning is a former national newspaper journalist. He started his career as a news reporter on regional newspapers before moving on to Fleet Street. There he worked for several titles, including Today and the Daily Express. He later joined the staff of the Daily Telegraph where he worked for sixteen years as a news sub-editor. Now You See is his debut crime novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
June 5, 2025
Very impressed
I have to say I was very impressed by this author. I have no idea if this author has written any other books but I was captured by the characters and the overall storyline. I bought a second book my Max Manning and I'm very much interested in book two. .
I have to say I was very impressed by this author. I have no idea if this author has written any other books but I was captured by the characters and the overall storyline. I bought a second book my Max Manning and I'm very much interested in book two. .
August 17, 2024
This was excellent, a completely riveting read. Edison Kane is back from leave after his breakdown after his wife's murder and is straight in the thick of things when the body of a man is discovered. Not only was he murdered but his eyes were removed. He is teamed with a new partner, DC Bailey Granger. The partnership works well and I thought they were a good combo.
Another murder soon follows and Kane is under severe pressure from all sides to wrap things up. I was none the wiser most of the way through as to who the killer was and the reveal was a surprise. There was still time at the end for a complete twist that left me gobsmacked. Hopefully there will be more to come here as it's set up perfectly for a second book now and I am eager to see more of this team at work.
Another murder soon follows and Kane is under severe pressure from all sides to wrap things up. I was none the wiser most of the way through as to who the killer was and the reveal was a surprise. There was still time at the end for a complete twist that left me gobsmacked. Hopefully there will be more to come here as it's set up perfectly for a second book now and I am eager to see more of this team at work.
August 17, 2024
Well deserving of five stars.
This book brings a real freshness to a well-worn scenario: a police procedural with an officer returning to work after psychiatric leave, a new colleague, a brutal killer, another officer who is corrupt and interference and pressure from the Press. Author Max Manning does an outstanding job here, demonstrating a clear understanding of the psychological issues of both criminals and also of the police officers.
The pace is unrelenting, with a huge cliffhanger at the end. The characters are absolutely believable, and there are some many twists and turns that it left me dizzy a times.
I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
This book brings a real freshness to a well-worn scenario: a police procedural with an officer returning to work after psychiatric leave, a new colleague, a brutal killer, another officer who is corrupt and interference and pressure from the Press. Author Max Manning does an outstanding job here, demonstrating a clear understanding of the psychological issues of both criminals and also of the police officers.
The pace is unrelenting, with a huge cliffhanger at the end. The characters are absolutely believable, and there are some many twists and turns that it left me dizzy a times.
I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
September 4, 2024
A Body on the Flats is a thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The story weaves a complex narrative around a string of chilling murders, combining the sharp investigative team of Kane and Granger,with deeply personal stakes. The character development is masterful, particularly in how it explores the protagonist's internal struggles and the duality of his public and private personas. With its intense plot twists and a cleverly constructed mystery, this book delivers both suspense and depth, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. It’s a real whodunnit.
August 13, 2024
Crime fiction is my favourite genre. I can happily devour a book in a couple of hours and this was no exception.
Our main police detectives are DI Edison Kane and DC Bailey Granger. DI Kane is still struggling to come to terms with the murder of his wife and is back to work rather earlier than might be wise. He’s paired up with DC Granger to investigate some murders in Leigh-on-Sea. Frustrated by his slow progress with the case and the local journalists leaking the story he struggles to find his feet again.
I probably should have guessed the murdered sooner than I did but I liked the twist.
If you like authors such as Joy Ellis, Simon McCleave and Tim Sullivan then this will appeal to you.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Our main police detectives are DI Edison Kane and DC Bailey Granger. DI Kane is still struggling to come to terms with the murder of his wife and is back to work rather earlier than might be wise. He’s paired up with DC Granger to investigate some murders in Leigh-on-Sea. Frustrated by his slow progress with the case and the local journalists leaking the story he struggles to find his feet again.
I probably should have guessed the murdered sooner than I did but I liked the twist.
If you like authors such as Joy Ellis, Simon McCleave and Tim Sullivan then this will appeal to you.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2024
Page Turner
I loved this book a lot! It hooked me from the very first page. I would definitely recommend this book.
I loved this book a lot! It hooked me from the very first page. I would definitely recommend this book.
May 30, 2025
Loved this book, kept me on my toes and suspicious of everybody!
July 13, 2025
clearly outstanding fast paced mystery read
Excellent read with unexpected twists in the plot that make this book unable to be put down. IF you have something important, or a deadline to meet, do not even THINK about starting this book. Excellent character development and keeps you guessing!
Excellent read with unexpected twists in the plot that make this book unable to be put down. IF you have something important, or a deadline to meet, do not even THINK about starting this book. Excellent character development and keeps you guessing!
July 27, 2025
really enjoyed this and now going back for more.
March 29, 2025
A Body on the Flats by Max Manning is the first book in the Kane and Granger Thriller series, and from the very first page, I was hooked. Although I read this right after Murder Under the Pier, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything by reading out of order—each book stands strong on its own, yet there’s a shared intensity between them that makes reading both a thrilling experience.
One of the most striking aspects of Manning’s writing, especially after reading the second book first, is how he handles the revelation of the killer. In A Body on the Flats, the identity of the killer is revealed earlier than you might expect, which initially threw me off when I first encountered it in the second book. At that time, I thought I had just guessed the killer too early. However, reading A Body on the Flats first made me realize that this is a deliberate choice by Manning—he shows his hand earlier to shift the focus from who did it to why and how it happened. It gives the story a different feel and adds layers of suspense that aren’t just tied to the mystery of the culprit, but to the psychological and emotional complexity of the investigation. It’s a brilliant storytelling technique that allows the reader to dive deeper into the narrative and feel the weight of the case in a more profound way.
As always, Manning’s scene-setting is impeccable. The Southend coastline, bleak and windswept, becomes a living, breathing backdrop to the investigation. His vivid descriptions draw you into this desolate landscape in such a way that you feel the cold, the isolation, and the tension hanging in the air. The environment doesn’t just set the scene; it enhances the mood and adds a haunting dimension to the entire narrative.
Equally compelling is the relationship between Detective Edison Kane and his new partner, Granger. From the moment they meet, their partnership feels authentic. There’s a natural understanding between them, a mutual respect that forms the backbone of their dynamic. The way Manning weaves their personal struggles into the investigation makes them feel like real people, not just characters in a story. I found myself invested not just in solving the case, but in how their partnership would evolve.
The pacing of the book is expertly done. The reveals are timed perfectly, and even though we know who the killer is earlier than expected, the narrative never loses momentum. I couldn’t put the book down, turning page after page, eager to understand the complexities of the case and to see how the detectives would ultimately bring things to a close.
In the end, A Body on the Flats is a dark, gripping, and immersive thriller that stands out for its unique narrative structure and compelling characters. Max Manning’s ability to build tension and draw readers in is unmatched. This is a fantastic start to the series, and I’m already looking forward to the next chapter in Kane and Granger’s journey.
Highly recommended for fans of thrillers with depth and unexpected twists!
One of the most striking aspects of Manning’s writing, especially after reading the second book first, is how he handles the revelation of the killer. In A Body on the Flats, the identity of the killer is revealed earlier than you might expect, which initially threw me off when I first encountered it in the second book. At that time, I thought I had just guessed the killer too early. However, reading A Body on the Flats first made me realize that this is a deliberate choice by Manning—he shows his hand earlier to shift the focus from who did it to why and how it happened. It gives the story a different feel and adds layers of suspense that aren’t just tied to the mystery of the culprit, but to the psychological and emotional complexity of the investigation. It’s a brilliant storytelling technique that allows the reader to dive deeper into the narrative and feel the weight of the case in a more profound way.
As always, Manning’s scene-setting is impeccable. The Southend coastline, bleak and windswept, becomes a living, breathing backdrop to the investigation. His vivid descriptions draw you into this desolate landscape in such a way that you feel the cold, the isolation, and the tension hanging in the air. The environment doesn’t just set the scene; it enhances the mood and adds a haunting dimension to the entire narrative.
Equally compelling is the relationship between Detective Edison Kane and his new partner, Granger. From the moment they meet, their partnership feels authentic. There’s a natural understanding between them, a mutual respect that forms the backbone of their dynamic. The way Manning weaves their personal struggles into the investigation makes them feel like real people, not just characters in a story. I found myself invested not just in solving the case, but in how their partnership would evolve.
The pacing of the book is expertly done. The reveals are timed perfectly, and even though we know who the killer is earlier than expected, the narrative never loses momentum. I couldn’t put the book down, turning page after page, eager to understand the complexities of the case and to see how the detectives would ultimately bring things to a close.
In the end, A Body on the Flats is a dark, gripping, and immersive thriller that stands out for its unique narrative structure and compelling characters. Max Manning’s ability to build tension and draw readers in is unmatched. This is a fantastic start to the series, and I’m already looking forward to the next chapter in Kane and Granger’s journey.
Highly recommended for fans of thrillers with depth and unexpected twists!
October 9, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Max Manning’s “A Body on the Flats” is a gripping start to the Kane and Granger series, blending the dark allure of British crime fiction with the relentless pace of a modern thriller. This novel introduces readers to Detective Inspector Edison Kane, a man haunted by personal tragedy and driven by an unyielding quest for justice.
For DI Edison Kane, this case is more than just another murder to solve. The plot is intricately woven, with each chapter revealing new twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Manning’s skillful pacing ensures that the tension never lets up, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
“A Body on the Flats” explores themes of loss, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The novel also delves into the psychological impact of trauma and the ways in which it shapes our actions and decisions.
Manning’s portrayal of Kane’s struggle to balance his professional duties with his personal vendetta adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward crime thriller.
His descriptions of the mudflats and the surrounding areas are vivid and immersive, adding a sense of place that enhances the overall mood of the novel. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, reflecting the gritty reality of police work. Manning’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters, particularly the tormented DI Kane, adds a layer of emotional resonance that elevates the story.
“A Body on the Flats” is a standout debut in the Kane and Granger series, offering a compelling blend of suspense, emotion, and intricate plotting. Max Manning has crafted a novel that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with a protagonist who is as complex as the cases he solves. This book is a must-read for fans of British crime fiction and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery.
Max Manning has set a high bar with “A Body on the Flats,” delivering a novel that is as engaging as it is chilling. With its well-drawn characters and expertly plotted narrative, this book promises to be the start of an exciting new series. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a gripping, atmospheric read.
Max Manning’s “A Body on the Flats” is a gripping start to the Kane and Granger series, blending the dark allure of British crime fiction with the relentless pace of a modern thriller. This novel introduces readers to Detective Inspector Edison Kane, a man haunted by personal tragedy and driven by an unyielding quest for justice.
For DI Edison Kane, this case is more than just another murder to solve. The plot is intricately woven, with each chapter revealing new twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Manning’s skillful pacing ensures that the tension never lets up, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
“A Body on the Flats” explores themes of loss, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The novel also delves into the psychological impact of trauma and the ways in which it shapes our actions and decisions.
Manning’s portrayal of Kane’s struggle to balance his professional duties with his personal vendetta adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward crime thriller.
His descriptions of the mudflats and the surrounding areas are vivid and immersive, adding a sense of place that enhances the overall mood of the novel. The dialogue is crisp and realistic, reflecting the gritty reality of police work. Manning’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters, particularly the tormented DI Kane, adds a layer of emotional resonance that elevates the story.
“A Body on the Flats” is a standout debut in the Kane and Granger series, offering a compelling blend of suspense, emotion, and intricate plotting. Max Manning has crafted a novel that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with a protagonist who is as complex as the cases he solves. This book is a must-read for fans of British crime fiction and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery.
Max Manning has set a high bar with “A Body on the Flats,” delivering a novel that is as engaging as it is chilling. With its well-drawn characters and expertly plotted narrative, this book promises to be the start of an exciting new series. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a gripping, atmospheric read.
September 7, 2024
In Brentwood, Essex, MIT DI Edison Kane has been off work for three months since his wife was murdered, and the case remains unsolved. Now back and having convinced his Supt that he is fit for work, he is assigned his first new case, that of a murdered man washed up on the mudflats at Leigh-on-Sea. It’s make or break time for Kane. Working out of Southend station with newly transferred DC Bailey Granger and assigned a small local team, the first priority is to identify the man who has been stabbed in the back and had his eyes cut out. He fears this will not be the only victim. Despite interference from very ambitious local rag crime reporter Jack Newman, they discover the man was a rough sleeper but still have no idea of his real identity, nor the motive for the murder. Then the journalist receives an email from the killer signing off with the words See No Evil, forcing the detectives to work with the press. A terrified witness comes forward but soon another mutilated body is found as Newman gets a second chilling message. With a very confident murderer taunting the police, will Kane save his reputation and catch the killer before anyone else dies?
Granger is impressive, a single mother to a four-year-old daughter, living with her mother and forging a career she is excelling at, despite her background. Kane is also admirable, throwing himself into his work after his devastating loss when many men would have crumbled and given up on life. Together they make a great team as they investigate a dark and baffling crime. The plot itself is excellent, full of twists and surprises with plenty of red herrings to fool the reader. I thoroughly enjoyed this first story in the series which had me completely hooked and with a fabulous little thread left hanging at the end, I am definitely looking forward to more.
Granger is impressive, a single mother to a four-year-old daughter, living with her mother and forging a career she is excelling at, despite her background. Kane is also admirable, throwing himself into his work after his devastating loss when many men would have crumbled and given up on life. Together they make a great team as they investigate a dark and baffling crime. The plot itself is excellent, full of twists and surprises with plenty of red herrings to fool the reader. I thoroughly enjoyed this first story in the series which had me completely hooked and with a fabulous little thread left hanging at the end, I am definitely looking forward to more.
August 24, 2024
5* intro to this author, who doesn't let slip for a second.
I'm getting more and more impressed with Joffe Books and their UK-based tales, and this may just be the current best of the lot.
I think it's the first of a series, featuring a recently widowed detective who's given his first case since his bereavement, and a new, younger female partner.
There's no faux awkwardness in their new relationship, no using her mixed race as a prop, and good on her for being a strong enough character to say that despite her age, she's proven herself - which she has - and she doesn't need shielding or protecting or being spoken for. That was delivered completely as a non-sensationalist, relevant and matter-of-fact statement, and once that was out in the open, good, healthy boundaries were set.
The tale itself is excellent. Not gruesome but well orchestrated in a twist I didn't see coming, and with a perfect red herring in one character that was used by the author and by the killer as a plot device. There was some really good blurring on both their parts. I hadn't expected the ending, which feels about 5% cliff hanger. Not in a way that makes you want to chuck your Kindle at the wall, but rather makes you want to nose at the author's website to find out when the next book will be out. It's really that good.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Joffe Books for my reading pleasure.
I'm getting more and more impressed with Joffe Books and their UK-based tales, and this may just be the current best of the lot.
I think it's the first of a series, featuring a recently widowed detective who's given his first case since his bereavement, and a new, younger female partner.
There's no faux awkwardness in their new relationship, no using her mixed race as a prop, and good on her for being a strong enough character to say that despite her age, she's proven herself - which she has - and she doesn't need shielding or protecting or being spoken for. That was delivered completely as a non-sensationalist, relevant and matter-of-fact statement, and once that was out in the open, good, healthy boundaries were set.
The tale itself is excellent. Not gruesome but well orchestrated in a twist I didn't see coming, and with a perfect red herring in one character that was used by the author and by the killer as a plot device. There was some really good blurring on both their parts. I hadn't expected the ending, which feels about 5% cliff hanger. Not in a way that makes you want to chuck your Kindle at the wall, but rather makes you want to nose at the author's website to find out when the next book will be out. It's really that good.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Joffe Books for my reading pleasure.
September 6, 2024
A body in the flats by Max Manning .
Kane and Granger Thrillers Book 1.
I did enjoy this book. Twisty and gripping. I did like DC Granger. But kane I wasn't sure about. This was a good to to a new series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Blurb.
Meet Detective Edison Kane. South End murder squad’s finest. Three months ago, his wife was killed on a night out. She wanted him there with her, but he always put work first. And the killer’s never been caught. Now he thinks he’s ready to be back at work . . .
Until a body washes up. On the godforsaken mudflats near Leigh-on-Sea. One look at the dead man’s face, and Kane feels himself start to unravel.
Where the eyes should be, there are only empty sockets.
Kane’s mobile pings with an anonymous message. Murder was so much easier than I thought. See no evil . . .
Everyone knows how that saying goes . . .
It’s up to Kane to stop the twisted killer, before they write their perfect ending.
But he couldn’t protect his wife — and can’t get justice for her now she’s dead and gone. Why should this case be any different?
An atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat thriller that’s perfect for fans of Simon McCleave, Ann Cleeves, Cath Staincliffe, Elly Griffiths and C.J. Grayson.
Kane and Granger Thrillers Book 1.
I did enjoy this book. Twisty and gripping. I did like DC Granger. But kane I wasn't sure about. This was a good to to a new series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Blurb.
Meet Detective Edison Kane. South End murder squad’s finest. Three months ago, his wife was killed on a night out. She wanted him there with her, but he always put work first. And the killer’s never been caught. Now he thinks he’s ready to be back at work . . .
Until a body washes up. On the godforsaken mudflats near Leigh-on-Sea. One look at the dead man’s face, and Kane feels himself start to unravel.
Where the eyes should be, there are only empty sockets.
Kane’s mobile pings with an anonymous message. Murder was so much easier than I thought. See no evil . . .
Everyone knows how that saying goes . . .
It’s up to Kane to stop the twisted killer, before they write their perfect ending.
But he couldn’t protect his wife — and can’t get justice for her now she’s dead and gone. Why should this case be any different?
An atmospheric, edge-of-your-seat thriller that’s perfect for fans of Simon McCleave, Ann Cleeves, Cath Staincliffe, Elly Griffiths and C.J. Grayson.
August 19, 2024
This is the first in a new police series featuring DI Edison Kane and DC Bailey Granger, set in and around the Southend area.
Kane has just come back on duty from compassionate leave following the murder of his wife, when a body washes up onto the mudflats in nearby Leigh-on-Sea. Kane assures his boss that he’s fine and capable of handling a murder inquiry, but he has more than a few wobbles. When they look closer at the dead man, they realise that his eyes have been gouged out, then Kane gets a message, “See no evil”.
Isobel Anderson goes for an early morning run, even though her partner isn’t keen on her doing that. Hers is the next body to be found, and an anonymous message, “Hear no evil”, is sent to the crime reporter of the local newspaper, Jack. He’s a high flyer and close to getting his big story that will propel him onto a London paper. Why was the message sent to him and not to the police?
A gripping read and a great start to the series. I look forward to reading more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Kane has just come back on duty from compassionate leave following the murder of his wife, when a body washes up onto the mudflats in nearby Leigh-on-Sea. Kane assures his boss that he’s fine and capable of handling a murder inquiry, but he has more than a few wobbles. When they look closer at the dead man, they realise that his eyes have been gouged out, then Kane gets a message, “See no evil”.
Isobel Anderson goes for an early morning run, even though her partner isn’t keen on her doing that. Hers is the next body to be found, and an anonymous message, “Hear no evil”, is sent to the crime reporter of the local newspaper, Jack. He’s a high flyer and close to getting his big story that will propel him onto a London paper. Why was the message sent to him and not to the police?
A gripping read and a great start to the series. I look forward to reading more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
August 17, 2024
My first thoughts on this book were that it was quite a good crime novel, not that exciting but one to persevere with and see how it went, and I’m glad I did.
It started off with a young lad, who was up to a bit of mischief witnessing a body being pushed into the sea off a boat and he is absolutely terrified that the killer has see him.
Then another murder is discovered. Each time the killer takes a body part with them as part of the thrill. The first is the eyes, and the second, the ears. They become known as the “see no evil, hear no evil” killer.
Kane & Bailey have their work cut out trying to find out who’s committing these crimes, as the killer is one step ahead all the time. Sadly, Kane is haunted by his wife’s murder and this threatens to put his job in jeopardy, as his boss thinks he’s not ready to return to work.
Well I have to say, I really didn’t think that the killer was who it was. It really surprised me and the ending was left open for another book maybe ……..🤔
My thanks to the author and Joffe publishers for the ARC.
It started off with a young lad, who was up to a bit of mischief witnessing a body being pushed into the sea off a boat and he is absolutely terrified that the killer has see him.
Then another murder is discovered. Each time the killer takes a body part with them as part of the thrill. The first is the eyes, and the second, the ears. They become known as the “see no evil, hear no evil” killer.
Kane & Bailey have their work cut out trying to find out who’s committing these crimes, as the killer is one step ahead all the time. Sadly, Kane is haunted by his wife’s murder and this threatens to put his job in jeopardy, as his boss thinks he’s not ready to return to work.
Well I have to say, I really didn’t think that the killer was who it was. It really surprised me and the ending was left open for another book maybe ……..🤔
My thanks to the author and Joffe publishers for the ARC.
August 27, 2024
Ed Kane is a detective in turmoil. His wife was murdered and he has been on compassionate leave. He convinced the police psychologist that he was ready to come back to work, but he’s not even sure of it himself. The Superintendent in charge of the murder squad gives him a case and a new offsider, detective constable Granger, and makes sure he knows that this is his last chance to prove that he hasn’t totally lost it. Can he prove to everyone, himself included, that he still has what it takes to bring a killer to justice? With plenty of twists and turns, this book will keep avid readers of crime fiction enthralled. Characters are given enough backstory to make them real and keep the reader invested in their destiny. The ending leaves an opening for further development of the investigation into Kane’s wife’s murder, and I think we will see a lot more of DI Kane and, hopefully, DC Granger.
August 15, 2024
In all honesty I nearly DNF @ 20% but I’m so glad I carried on.
‘The dead can't stand up for themselves. That's his job’
and that’s exactly what he did even when told to give up
The last half of the book had me gripped and it’s currently past 1am because I stayed up to finish the book I couldn’t put it down. The last chapter has me shocked and I really hope there will be a second book to put the answers to bed.
My main reason for giving it 4* instead of 5 was the way it was written, the author is a great writer don’t get me wrong, however the first few chapters for me read like a tv script rather than a book. The main thing I’d change as instead of ‘chapter 1’ I’d have the name of the persons POV it was for example ‘Kane’
*disclosure, I was given this book for review through NetGalley*
‘The dead can't stand up for themselves. That's his job’
and that’s exactly what he did even when told to give up
The last half of the book had me gripped and it’s currently past 1am because I stayed up to finish the book I couldn’t put it down. The last chapter has me shocked and I really hope there will be a second book to put the answers to bed.
My main reason for giving it 4* instead of 5 was the way it was written, the author is a great writer don’t get me wrong, however the first few chapters for me read like a tv script rather than a book. The main thing I’d change as instead of ‘chapter 1’ I’d have the name of the persons POV it was for example ‘Kane’
*disclosure, I was given this book for review through NetGalley*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
This is the first book I have read by Max Manning.
It started off a bit slow for my liking and took me a few chapters to get into it. It did get even better as I read on though, and I couldn't put it down by the end.
The lead character Kane seemed like an ok character, who's dealing with coming to terms his wife's murder and coming back to work a murder case as his 1st case back.
His DC Granger is a more likable character in my opinion. She's a single mother working hard to give her daughter good childhood. I'm looking forward to seeing how both characters progress.
The ending of the book was crazy and now it's got me anticipating the next book in the series.
You should give this a go, but if like me you find the start slow, please continue as it gets more fast paced and exciting, and the ending is great.
It started off a bit slow for my liking and took me a few chapters to get into it. It did get even better as I read on though, and I couldn't put it down by the end.
The lead character Kane seemed like an ok character, who's dealing with coming to terms his wife's murder and coming back to work a murder case as his 1st case back.
His DC Granger is a more likable character in my opinion. She's a single mother working hard to give her daughter good childhood. I'm looking forward to seeing how both characters progress.
The ending of the book was crazy and now it's got me anticipating the next book in the series.
You should give this a go, but if like me you find the start slow, please continue as it gets more fast paced and exciting, and the ending is great.
August 27, 2024
I Didn't See The End Coming
DI Edison Kane has been off work since his wife’s murder. Now he is back, but is he really ready? A body is found on the beach, Edison and Detective Constable Bailey Granger go to investigate and find the dead man’s eyes have been removed. In no time at all another body is found, this time the ears have been taken. With no immediate suspect found, Edison is under extreme pressure to find the killer before another body appears. This was a gripping book and I had not guessed who the killer was. I hope there is another book to come featuring Detectives Kane and Granger.
DI Edison Kane has been off work since his wife’s murder. Now he is back, but is he really ready? A body is found on the beach, Edison and Detective Constable Bailey Granger go to investigate and find the dead man’s eyes have been removed. In no time at all another body is found, this time the ears have been taken. With no immediate suspect found, Edison is under extreme pressure to find the killer before another body appears. This was a gripping book and I had not guessed who the killer was. I hope there is another book to come featuring Detectives Kane and Granger.
September 1, 2024
Kane is back from sick leave following the murder of his wife, he has convinced everyone he is fit for work, but is he? He is still seeing a therapist privately.
On the day before his return a body has been washed onto the beach and he is tasked to look into it. He has a new DC starting also, Grainger, a single mother. They soon have a murderer to find, as the body has definitely been murdered. A few false leads and leaked information hamper the case.
I found the book hard to get into and for a while it was a bit stilted, up the rhythm picked up and it is an ok read. Obviously the start of a series as the ending is open.
On the day before his return a body has been washed onto the beach and he is tasked to look into it. He has a new DC starting also, Grainger, a single mother. They soon have a murderer to find, as the body has definitely been murdered. A few false leads and leaked information hamper the case.
I found the book hard to get into and for a while it was a bit stilted, up the rhythm picked up and it is an ok read. Obviously the start of a series as the ending is open.
August 27, 2024
Edison Kane has his demons. He’s just returned to head up a murder investigation team for the first time since his wife was brutally murdered. Is he fit to be there? Is he up for the challenge? He’s partnered with a rookie detective who has her own reasons for wanting this appointment to succeed. Add to the mix a bent copper, an over enthusiastic crime reporter, a local businessman with a dubious past and a young petty criminal who had seen too much for his own good. This will keep you gripped right up to the very last page
Thanks to Joffe’s Arc for an advanced copy
Thanks to Joffe’s Arc for an advanced copy
August 28, 2024
Having recently read a few books with dual timelines/perspectives, I just wanted a book which flowed - or in this case ebbed and flowed with the tide in the town where it is set. Good strong characters and plenty to get your teeth into, so to speak. I never guessed the killer until nearly the end which is always a sign that it is a great story. I really enjoyed reading this and hope there is more to come.
Thanks to Joffe books for the ARC to review
Thanks to Joffe books for the ARC to review
September 28, 2024
Dectective Inspector Edison Kane is teamed up with Detective Constable Bailey Granted to investigate the discovery of a body found washed up on the beach, having returned to work after a personal tragedy Kane has everything to prove it he wants to save his career. The
This was a solid start to a police procedural series, gritty, engaging and I enjoyed the development of the characters and the relationships between them, I
Look forward to seeing how this series develops.
This was a solid start to a police procedural series, gritty, engaging and I enjoyed the development of the characters and the relationships between them, I
Look forward to seeing how this series develops.
April 2, 2025
Excellent, Exciting, Engrossing
One dead body with eyes missing found on the mud flats after the tide has gone out. A single knife thrust through his back and into the heart is the cause of death. Detective Kane is recovering from the murder and rape of his wife. He needs to return to work or go stir crazy. But is he ready? His boss wonders. His psychologist wonders. Even the reader wonders as the bodies pile up and the twists keep coming.
One dead body with eyes missing found on the mud flats after the tide has gone out. A single knife thrust through his back and into the heart is the cause of death. Detective Kane is recovering from the murder and rape of his wife. He needs to return to work or go stir crazy. But is he ready? His boss wonders. His psychologist wonders. Even the reader wonders as the bodies pile up and the twists keep coming.
August 28, 2024
What a great start to a promising new series! Set in Southend and featuring DI Kane and DC Granger, it has everything you want from a police procedural. I was hooked from the start, right until that unexpected ending and I can't wait for the next book to find out what is in store for the two detectives. I hope we don't have to wait too long for a follow up! Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
July 3, 2025
Great start to police procedural thtiller series
I must admit, I wasn't sure when I started to read this book. But the more I got into it, the more I found I wanted to continue reading. Excellent thriller and looks like beginnings of great detective duo. As regards the ending, it was a surprise!
I must admit, I wasn't sure when I started to read this book. But the more I got into it, the more I found I wanted to continue reading. Excellent thriller and looks like beginnings of great detective duo. As regards the ending, it was a surprise!
July 4, 2025
Amateur story telling
I cannot recommend this book. The conversations are stilted. I had no sympathy for D I Kane and his personal problems. I have no interest in reading another book to discover who killed his wife. His attitude to almost everyone was annoying. There were too many deaths to make a believable police mystery. This was a very disappointing novel
I cannot recommend this book. The conversations are stilted. I had no sympathy for D I Kane and his personal problems. I have no interest in reading another book to discover who killed his wife. His attitude to almost everyone was annoying. There were too many deaths to make a believable police mystery. This was a very disappointing novel
July 23, 2025
superb
Absolutely lovely reading right from the beginning to the end. The plot was well thought out as well as the characters who played their parts extremely well. What a truly absorbing read which had me turning over the pages quickly to see what would happen next. It did not disappoint. Thank you for quite a few hours of entertainment 😊
Absolutely lovely reading right from the beginning to the end. The plot was well thought out as well as the characters who played their parts extremely well. What a truly absorbing read which had me turning over the pages quickly to see what would happen next. It did not disappoint. Thank you for quite a few hours of entertainment 😊
August 6, 2025
Decent read and a typical British seaside detective novel that doesn’t really have a major twist as it becomes apparent who the perpetrator is three quarters of the way through the book, which makes it a change from the last page twist!
Read pretty quickly which is an indication of its ‘readability’. Great value as it was a freebie.
Read pretty quickly which is an indication of its ‘readability’. Great value as it was a freebie.
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