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The Silent Killer
The first in a Newcastle-set police procedural series with a twist. DCI Jack Parker has a secret. He has early onset dementia and he will do anything and everything to hide it from his peers and the people he's investigating.
THE CLOCK IS TICKING. THERE'S NO ESCAPE.
DCI Jack Parker has faced down hardened villains and raving, drug-addled lunatics. He's disarmed a machete-wielding psychopath and broken devastating news of a loved one's death more times than he can remember.
With a serial killer stalking the Newcastle streets and one of his closest colleagues lying in the mortuary following a hit and run he thinks things are about as tough as they've ever been. But he should know that trouble always comes in threes.
Jack is about to face the biggest challenge of his life, one that will end his career and destroy his Early Onset Dementia.
As he does everything he can to hide his deteriorating condition from his family and colleagues, Jack believes that the serial killer is haunted by his childhood while his own memories are built on increasingly shifting sands.
The race against time to save lives, including his own, has begun.
Whilst staying within the realms of the police procedural genre, this cracking thriller will explore character in depth and with sensitivity, as well as with the author's trademark dark humour.
THE CLOCK IS TICKING. THERE'S NO ESCAPE.
DCI Jack Parker has faced down hardened villains and raving, drug-addled lunatics. He's disarmed a machete-wielding psychopath and broken devastating news of a loved one's death more times than he can remember.
With a serial killer stalking the Newcastle streets and one of his closest colleagues lying in the mortuary following a hit and run he thinks things are about as tough as they've ever been. But he should know that trouble always comes in threes.
Jack is about to face the biggest challenge of his life, one that will end his career and destroy his Early Onset Dementia.
As he does everything he can to hide his deteriorating condition from his family and colleagues, Jack believes that the serial killer is haunted by his childhood while his own memories are built on increasingly shifting sands.
The race against time to save lives, including his own, has begun.
Whilst staying within the realms of the police procedural genre, this cracking thriller will explore character in depth and with sensitivity, as well as with the author's trademark dark humour.
464 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
35 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 18, 2024
I devoured Trevor Wood’s latest book, The Silent Killer, in just a couple of sittings. I absolutely loved it. This wonderful crime novel has all the ingredients which make Wood one of my favourite crime novelists - instantly compelling characters, grit, a gripping plot, twists and turns I didn’t anticipate, all mixed with a huge dollop of heart. This is the start of what promises to be a delicious new crime series, and I can't wait for the next course!
July 24, 2024
I don't know how Trevor does it, but he can write crime books, a wide genre granted, but each of them vaguely familiar in some ways, and yet worlds apart in others.
In this instance Jack Parker is devastated when his colleague is killed, especially as he was supposed to be driving, but he couldn't resist that one more pint.
Then a man is found horrifically murdered in a school toilet. Jack and his team, Emma, Leon and Clive, all try and uncover the truth.
However Jack then finds out he has early onset dementia and that completely turns his life upside down. His dad had suffered and turned into a violent bully.
The issue of dementia is dealt with incredibly sensitively and honestly. The many issues Jack faces with an axe hanging over him at all times.
Apart from that, the issue of bullying is also dealt with fantastically. How utterly destructive it is, even when it happens at school. It doesn't leave you. This showed you the impact of the bullied to bully and the singled out kid. This is male on male bullying, which is more physical but also horrific.
I loved the loyalty, between family, and colleagues that shone through at the end.
I can't wait to see if there are more and what Trevor does with Jack and how the story unfolds. I couldn't read this fast enough and had no idea who'd done it. I also hoped they'd get to finish their list without getting caught!!
In this instance Jack Parker is devastated when his colleague is killed, especially as he was supposed to be driving, but he couldn't resist that one more pint.
Then a man is found horrifically murdered in a school toilet. Jack and his team, Emma, Leon and Clive, all try and uncover the truth.
However Jack then finds out he has early onset dementia and that completely turns his life upside down. His dad had suffered and turned into a violent bully.
The issue of dementia is dealt with incredibly sensitively and honestly. The many issues Jack faces with an axe hanging over him at all times.
Apart from that, the issue of bullying is also dealt with fantastically. How utterly destructive it is, even when it happens at school. It doesn't leave you. This showed you the impact of the bullied to bully and the singled out kid. This is male on male bullying, which is more physical but also horrific.
I loved the loyalty, between family, and colleagues that shone through at the end.
I can't wait to see if there are more and what Trevor does with Jack and how the story unfolds. I couldn't read this fast enough and had no idea who'd done it. I also hoped they'd get to finish their list without getting caught!!
June 22, 2025
This has been a thriller that has been not the easiest of reads because of the fact that the DCI Jack Parker is after a serial killer and he's also lost a close colleague to a hit-and-run but unfortunately life gets tougher for him as he is diagnosed with early onset dementia.
He tries to hide his condition from his family and colleagues, but it can't help but come to light during the investigation as not only he tries to save lives but he also find his own is at risk .
It's a gritty Reed with an underlying dark humour to the story and I feel like it's been written well as it's kept my attention except for the few hours that I was asleep .
He tries to hide his condition from his family and colleagues, but it can't help but come to light during the investigation as not only he tries to save lives but he also find his own is at risk .
It's a gritty Reed with an underlying dark humour to the story and I feel like it's been written well as it's kept my attention except for the few hours that I was asleep .
September 10, 2024
A first class police procedural based in Newcastle upon Tyne. This taster introduction of Inspector Jack, his family, & his team of investigators is compelling. Can't wait to read the next in the trilogy to see what adventures & emotions lie ahead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2025
Brilliant book
This is the first book of his i have read and i must say it is fantastic.
This had everything, a fantastic storyline, brilliant chatacters, short chapters (4-6 pages each)
This will definitely not be the last book of his i read.... book 2 is released in July (i've already pre ordered it)
Think i will make a start on his other series'
This is the first book of his i have read and i must say it is fantastic.
This had everything, a fantastic storyline, brilliant chatacters, short chapters (4-6 pages each)
This will definitely not be the last book of his i read.... book 2 is released in July (i've already pre ordered it)
Think i will make a start on his other series'
August 19, 2025
A great start to what l hope will be a long series. Great characters and very interesting story line. Much to recommend it.
July 4, 2024
I'm such a huge Trevor Wood fan, so I was thrilled to be able to review a copy his latest offering. I loved the Jimmy Mullen series and the thought provoking characters that really have you re-evaluate all of your pre conceived notions of the homeless community.
In The Silent Killer we meet DCI Jack Parker. He's a veteran cop who has seen his fair share of violence in his career, but when a serial killer starts murdering on his patch, he is torn between solving the case and finding the link to the killer of one of his closest colleagues. When Parker is diagnosed with early onset dementia, his world is blown apart. Terrified that he will become as violent as his late father was in his dementia battle, he makes the choice to keep his diagnosis secret from his work and his family, leading to devastating consequences...
Wood is no ordinary crime writer - he writes with heart, guts and creates a narrative that stays with you long after reading. There is so much food for thought in this story. Dementia is the UK's biggest killer and the thought is so terrifying that most of us don't think about it until we are affected either directly or indirectly. In Parker, this really hits home. For a man who needs his mind sharp to do his job, to begin to lose his grip is utterly catastrophic. Although Parker is a flawed man, he truly captured me and I was rooting for him on every level. It makes me think of the greater impact that dementia has, not just on the patient, but of their families and colleagues and how ruthless it is when the person you know is slowly stripped away.
The fact that this is to be a series is utterly brilliant. I devoured this book and I cannot wait to continue on Jack Parker's journey.
A gritty 5 star read for me.
I would like to thank Ella Patel at Quercus Books for a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review.
In The Silent Killer we meet DCI Jack Parker. He's a veteran cop who has seen his fair share of violence in his career, but when a serial killer starts murdering on his patch, he is torn between solving the case and finding the link to the killer of one of his closest colleagues. When Parker is diagnosed with early onset dementia, his world is blown apart. Terrified that he will become as violent as his late father was in his dementia battle, he makes the choice to keep his diagnosis secret from his work and his family, leading to devastating consequences...
Wood is no ordinary crime writer - he writes with heart, guts and creates a narrative that stays with you long after reading. There is so much food for thought in this story. Dementia is the UK's biggest killer and the thought is so terrifying that most of us don't think about it until we are affected either directly or indirectly. In Parker, this really hits home. For a man who needs his mind sharp to do his job, to begin to lose his grip is utterly catastrophic. Although Parker is a flawed man, he truly captured me and I was rooting for him on every level. It makes me think of the greater impact that dementia has, not just on the patient, but of their families and colleagues and how ruthless it is when the person you know is slowly stripped away.
The fact that this is to be a series is utterly brilliant. I devoured this book and I cannot wait to continue on Jack Parker's journey.
A gritty 5 star read for me.
I would like to thank Ella Patel at Quercus Books for a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review.
March 2, 2025
I don't usually read thrillers and I've never read Trevor Wood before but I heard about his 75 mile walk to raise money for Alzheimers research and a book signing at my favourite bookshop Featherbed Books in Houghton le Spring. It was the early onset dementia storyline I was interested in and it did not disappoint. Fantastic sensitive writing. Can't wait for the next in the series.
October 2, 2024
The Silent Killer is the first instalment in a new series from Trevor Wood and introduces the reader to DCI Jack Parker. Parker has been a police officer for many years, he's dealt with everything imaginable, but he now has to face up to what is probably going to be the biggest challenge of his life.
Parker lets his female colleague drive as he just couldn't resist that last pint. This is his first regret of the story as a hit and run driver smashes into their car, leaving her dead.
Parker and his team are then put in charge of investigating a series of grisly murders, the first finds a dead man with his head down a toilet. The scene of the crime is Parker's old school. When more bodies are discovered, it becomes clear to Parker that there is a link ...... but what is it? Could this also have something to do with the original hit and run?
Parker doesn't only have a serial killer case to solve, he's also trying to cope with his own shock diagnosis of early onset dementia. He cannot see past how this dreadful disease affected his own childhood, when his father turned from a kind, loving man to a violent bully who put the fear of God into both Parker and his mother. He is determined that this is not going to happen to him and his loved ones and makes rash decisions about his future, yet refuses to tell anyone the truth.
Not only is this a complex, cleverly plotted and intense crime thriller, it is also a deeply moving and evocative look at a devastating disease that can strike anyone and totally destroy lives. Wood is also skilled in adding a touch of dry, wry humour into his novel, creating a depth that only enhances the whole plot.
His character building is sublime and his ability to throw in some red herrings is magnificent, this is a novel that twists and turns its way with ease, keeping the reader totally transfixed and delivering surprise after surprise
A crime novel with heart, with exquisite characters and a plot that never slows down. Highly recommended.
Parker lets his female colleague drive as he just couldn't resist that last pint. This is his first regret of the story as a hit and run driver smashes into their car, leaving her dead.
Parker and his team are then put in charge of investigating a series of grisly murders, the first finds a dead man with his head down a toilet. The scene of the crime is Parker's old school. When more bodies are discovered, it becomes clear to Parker that there is a link ...... but what is it? Could this also have something to do with the original hit and run?
Parker doesn't only have a serial killer case to solve, he's also trying to cope with his own shock diagnosis of early onset dementia. He cannot see past how this dreadful disease affected his own childhood, when his father turned from a kind, loving man to a violent bully who put the fear of God into both Parker and his mother. He is determined that this is not going to happen to him and his loved ones and makes rash decisions about his future, yet refuses to tell anyone the truth.
Not only is this a complex, cleverly plotted and intense crime thriller, it is also a deeply moving and evocative look at a devastating disease that can strike anyone and totally destroy lives. Wood is also skilled in adding a touch of dry, wry humour into his novel, creating a depth that only enhances the whole plot.
His character building is sublime and his ability to throw in some red herrings is magnificent, this is a novel that twists and turns its way with ease, keeping the reader totally transfixed and delivering surprise after surprise
A crime novel with heart, with exquisite characters and a plot that never slows down. Highly recommended.
August 25, 2025
Book 1 in the DCI Jack Parker series and what a great start. The silent killer in this case is dementia. After a hit and run car accident in which his colleague was killed and Jack injured Jack has been given a diagnosis of early onset dementia. A shock at any age but he has seen how it affected his father and doesn’t want to put his family through the same and if his bosses find out he will probably lose his job. So he decides to tell no one. A good plot, with a lead case and a second thread centering around the hit and run.
Briefly, there is a killer in Newcastle. Returning to work after the accident Jack is handed the investigation into a body found in the toilets at his old school. Working with the team progress is being made when there is a second murder and there are links the two victims. But Jack is also investigating, off the book, the incident which caused his injuries and the death of his colleague and is shocked at what he finds.
Very good characters, DS Leon Johnson and DS Emma Steel were perfect foils for Jack who is a bit old school and a rule breaker, and this is likely to become more noticeable. Anyone who has been affected in anyway by this disease knows just how insidious it is. My mother lived with and died with dementia and I worked for 12 years for a dementia research charity so I know a fair bit and this has been dealt with both sympathetically and accurately in this book. Jack’s early diagnosis and treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors should help his symptoms and I hope this series can continue once he admits to his bosses that he has this condition. An excellent start to the new police procedural series.
Briefly, there is a killer in Newcastle. Returning to work after the accident Jack is handed the investigation into a body found in the toilets at his old school. Working with the team progress is being made when there is a second murder and there are links the two victims. But Jack is also investigating, off the book, the incident which caused his injuries and the death of his colleague and is shocked at what he finds.
Very good characters, DS Leon Johnson and DS Emma Steel were perfect foils for Jack who is a bit old school and a rule breaker, and this is likely to become more noticeable. Anyone who has been affected in anyway by this disease knows just how insidious it is. My mother lived with and died with dementia and I worked for 12 years for a dementia research charity so I know a fair bit and this has been dealt with both sympathetically and accurately in this book. Jack’s early diagnosis and treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors should help his symptoms and I hope this series can continue once he admits to his bosses that he has this condition. An excellent start to the new police procedural series.
September 15, 2025
The first in a new series to feature DCI Jack Parker. Trevor Wood is an author very adept at bringing original plot lines and characters, The Silent Killer is no exception
You soon realise as you start to read this book, that this and the series as a whole is going to be somewhat different, as Jack is diagnosed with early onset dementia. Jack is a compellingly written character, there is a lot to digest in his personal life, the changes, doubts and fears he face are real, for the sake of his career he also can’t say anything publicly which can lead to situations with his colleagues borne out of unwitting ignorance, on top of all this there is a killer to be found.
As a police thriller, the story is inventively and richly plotted, superbly constructed and delivered on the page, it’s hard hitting, the murders colourful, slickly layered where the writing keeps the reader in the dark
All the characters within the book are written in a very compelling and believeable way, they come across as everyday folk
It’s a read mired in inrigue, bringing storytelling of the highest quality
This is not a straigtforward read in terms of the investigation, there are plenty of suspects and possible motives to keep the reader guessing, as a story there are twists within the narrative to make you stop and think, one thing is guaranteed though that you will keep turning the pages
There were interesting life choices that Jack makes and whist understanding his motives, i couldn’t help but feel sorry for him, there is a lonliness to his condition. Surrounding all this the book really makes for a heartfelt and emotionally charged read
The author has a knack of injecting wry humour to break up those darker moments.
I found the pacing of the book spot on, it builds the intensity as just the right moments, keeping the suspense and tension high
I like to think myself a bit of an aficenado when it comes to police thrillers, for me this was a read which hit all the right notes
As a character and as someone who lost my father to dementia it will be interesting to see how Jack is developed within the series, both in terms of his character, behaviour and personality, one thing that did strike me though as I read this book was that the author has clearly researched the condition, it deserves that authenticity.
Trevor Wood is an author at the top of their game a gritty compelling and highly engaging read. Highly recommend the book and eagerly look forward to reading more
You soon realise as you start to read this book, that this and the series as a whole is going to be somewhat different, as Jack is diagnosed with early onset dementia. Jack is a compellingly written character, there is a lot to digest in his personal life, the changes, doubts and fears he face are real, for the sake of his career he also can’t say anything publicly which can lead to situations with his colleagues borne out of unwitting ignorance, on top of all this there is a killer to be found.
As a police thriller, the story is inventively and richly plotted, superbly constructed and delivered on the page, it’s hard hitting, the murders colourful, slickly layered where the writing keeps the reader in the dark
All the characters within the book are written in a very compelling and believeable way, they come across as everyday folk
It’s a read mired in inrigue, bringing storytelling of the highest quality
This is not a straigtforward read in terms of the investigation, there are plenty of suspects and possible motives to keep the reader guessing, as a story there are twists within the narrative to make you stop and think, one thing is guaranteed though that you will keep turning the pages
There were interesting life choices that Jack makes and whist understanding his motives, i couldn’t help but feel sorry for him, there is a lonliness to his condition. Surrounding all this the book really makes for a heartfelt and emotionally charged read
The author has a knack of injecting wry humour to break up those darker moments.
I found the pacing of the book spot on, it builds the intensity as just the right moments, keeping the suspense and tension high
I like to think myself a bit of an aficenado when it comes to police thrillers, for me this was a read which hit all the right notes
As a character and as someone who lost my father to dementia it will be interesting to see how Jack is developed within the series, both in terms of his character, behaviour and personality, one thing that did strike me though as I read this book was that the author has clearly researched the condition, it deserves that authenticity.
Trevor Wood is an author at the top of their game a gritty compelling and highly engaging read. Highly recommend the book and eagerly look forward to reading more
December 7, 2025
Set in the North East of England, predominantly Newcastle, this book was an instant win for me. I always love reading stories set close to home and it was a nice bonus to see Sunderland get a mention too! This was my first read by adopted Geordie author Trevor Wood and it’s the first in his Newcastle based police procedural series, featuring DCI Jack Parker and his team - a series I’ll definitely be continuing.
Although “The Silent Killer” is primarily a police procedural crime thriller, what truly stood out for me was the sensitive and powerful way the author weaves in the devastating reality of Alzheimer’s disease. You can clearly see that a great deal of research has gone into ensuring this aspect of the story is portrayed with realism and authenticity. Seeing it affect one of the main characters added a deeply emotional layer to the story. The portrayal of an early diagnosis and the knowledge that it can feel like a life sentence, was handled with genuine respect and compassion. It made the character’s personal choices feel heartbreakingly real and understandable.
The crime itself is gripping and well executed, with some truly toe-curling scenes and a tense cat-and-mouse chase that keeps you on edge throughout. This is a dark, compelling and emotionally layered thriller that left a strong impression and I highly recommend it to fans of gritty UK crime fiction.
#TheSilentKiller - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Although “The Silent Killer” is primarily a police procedural crime thriller, what truly stood out for me was the sensitive and powerful way the author weaves in the devastating reality of Alzheimer’s disease. You can clearly see that a great deal of research has gone into ensuring this aspect of the story is portrayed with realism and authenticity. Seeing it affect one of the main characters added a deeply emotional layer to the story. The portrayal of an early diagnosis and the knowledge that it can feel like a life sentence, was handled with genuine respect and compassion. It made the character’s personal choices feel heartbreakingly real and understandable.
The crime itself is gripping and well executed, with some truly toe-curling scenes and a tense cat-and-mouse chase that keeps you on edge throughout. This is a dark, compelling and emotionally layered thriller that left a strong impression and I highly recommend it to fans of gritty UK crime fiction.
#TheSilentKiller - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 25, 2024
With a serial killer stalking the Newcastle streets and one of his closest colleagues lying in the mortuary following a hit and run, DCI Jack Parker has a secret. He is about to face the biggest challenge of his life, one that will end his career and destroy his family: Early Onset Dementia. As he does everything he can to hide his deteriorating condition from his family and colleagues, Jack believes that the serial killer is haunted by his childhood and the race against time to save lives, including his own, has begun.
The first in a Newcastle-set police procedural series with a twist in the main character discovering a dementia diagnosis, which threatens to derail his whole life. This book is very much setting the scene for how the symptoms may present themselves and it is a really intriguing hook. It also helps that the author’s writing style, which I am experiencing for the first time, creates a comical, human character in Jack that you can easily connect with.
The serial killer storyline taking the stage in this book is also very cleverly executed, it kept me guessing right up to the end, always the sign of a great thriller read. Parker’s team are also characters that are easy to connect with and this title is a wonderful taster for what will come next in the series, I have a feeling it will be another great read! Especially loved the dark humour inserted into the characters, an element that makes them even more relatable and memorable.
Safe to say I will definitely be reading more by this author and I look forward to continuing this series when the next book is released.
The first in a Newcastle-set police procedural series with a twist in the main character discovering a dementia diagnosis, which threatens to derail his whole life. This book is very much setting the scene for how the symptoms may present themselves and it is a really intriguing hook. It also helps that the author’s writing style, which I am experiencing for the first time, creates a comical, human character in Jack that you can easily connect with.
The serial killer storyline taking the stage in this book is also very cleverly executed, it kept me guessing right up to the end, always the sign of a great thriller read. Parker’s team are also characters that are easy to connect with and this title is a wonderful taster for what will come next in the series, I have a feeling it will be another great read! Especially loved the dark humour inserted into the characters, an element that makes them even more relatable and memorable.
Safe to say I will definitely be reading more by this author and I look forward to continuing this series when the next book is released.
August 9, 2024
Trevor Wood’s latest crime thriller The Silent Killer is absolutely first class, I was hooked from the outset and was left wanting more at the end- hopefully this is the start of another brilliant series from Trevor.
This is the story of DCI Jack Parker, who is trying to crack the case of a serial killer stalking Newcastle whilst also dealing with his diagnosis of early onset dementia. He is terrified at the implications as he saw his father become more and more violent as his dementia developed, and does not want the same for his own family.
Dementia is an illness that’s unfortunately all too close to my own family and I was so impressed with how sensitively it was handled as such an integral part of the story. The police investigations are also wonderfully plotted with endless twists and reveals as the story develops and I had no idea where the investigation would go.
Highly recommended.
This is the story of DCI Jack Parker, who is trying to crack the case of a serial killer stalking Newcastle whilst also dealing with his diagnosis of early onset dementia. He is terrified at the implications as he saw his father become more and more violent as his dementia developed, and does not want the same for his own family.
Dementia is an illness that’s unfortunately all too close to my own family and I was so impressed with how sensitively it was handled as such an integral part of the story. The police investigations are also wonderfully plotted with endless twists and reveals as the story develops and I had no idea where the investigation would go.
Highly recommended.
August 17, 2024
I am a huge fan of this authors previous series and standalone, so was happy to hear of this new series!
The Silent Killer introduces DCI Jack Parker who not only has a serial killer on his patch, he has also just had a devastating diagnosis. Terrified of becoming like his father who he watched decline to someone unrecognisable after his diagnosis, he starts to distance himself from his family so as not to expose them to the same upset he had to go through. He also has to start making changes at work to make sure he doesn't miss or forget details, but how long can he keep this up before someone notices?
Sadly, I have first-hand experience of this awful disease and I think the author did a great job addressing it sensitively and with a dose of humour, as that is sometimes the only way to get through it.
Looking forward to more from Jack and the team!
The Silent Killer introduces DCI Jack Parker who not only has a serial killer on his patch, he has also just had a devastating diagnosis. Terrified of becoming like his father who he watched decline to someone unrecognisable after his diagnosis, he starts to distance himself from his family so as not to expose them to the same upset he had to go through. He also has to start making changes at work to make sure he doesn't miss or forget details, but how long can he keep this up before someone notices?
Sadly, I have first-hand experience of this awful disease and I think the author did a great job addressing it sensitively and with a dose of humour, as that is sometimes the only way to get through it.
Looking forward to more from Jack and the team!
January 12, 2025
I loved Trevor Wood's previous series so I knew I was in for a treat with this. DCI Jack Parker is involved in an accident that sees the death of a colleague, in the car with him. On being checked over, he finds an area of brain shrinkage that guarantees he's heading for early onset dementia, which his own father had. Determined not to let his family suffer as his father had done to Jack and his mother, he keeps it a secret and moves out of the home. All this while pursuing criminals. The unusual setting allows for characters to be pulled different ways, and I really enjoyed the problems this threw up. Parker has more than usual on his plate and I loved the tangled web of the story. I'm looking forward to more.
April 29, 2025
I devoured The Silent Killer by Trevor Wood in a day.
The story centres on DCI Jack Parker, who has recently been diagnosed dementia and is coming to terms with that diagnosis. I can’t begin to imagine what such a life-changing diagnosis would be like, but I found the portrayal very real. Jack doesn’t want to be a burden on his family and needs to keep working because that is who he is.
DCI Jack Parker is very no-nonsense and shoots from the hip, but he is fair and his team like and respect him. This comes across in the banter that he has with his team and particularly Leon and Emma.
The crime investigations move along at a good pace with twists and turns.
It’s set up for follow-up book and I really can’t wait to read it.
The story centres on DCI Jack Parker, who has recently been diagnosed dementia and is coming to terms with that diagnosis. I can’t begin to imagine what such a life-changing diagnosis would be like, but I found the portrayal very real. Jack doesn’t want to be a burden on his family and needs to keep working because that is who he is.
DCI Jack Parker is very no-nonsense and shoots from the hip, but he is fair and his team like and respect him. This comes across in the banter that he has with his team and particularly Leon and Emma.
The crime investigations move along at a good pace with twists and turns.
It’s set up for follow-up book and I really can’t wait to read it.
August 5, 2025
4.25⭐️
I had the audiobook read by David Nellist who is ok, the female voices aren’t the best.
DCI Jack Parker is an unusual protagonist in this crime series, in that he has early onset dementia which he is trying to hide from his family and work. The location is Newcastle, there’s a seri@l killer at large.
I gelled straight away with the writing style which makes for easy listening. It’s interesting following Jack with his diagnosis which adds a unique angle. It manages to avoid all the boring dross associated with police procedural investigations, keeping a good pace with snippets of humour that had me chuckling.
It kept my interest throughout and has some good twists and turns. Looking forward to the next instalment.
I had the audiobook read by David Nellist who is ok, the female voices aren’t the best.
DCI Jack Parker is an unusual protagonist in this crime series, in that he has early onset dementia which he is trying to hide from his family and work. The location is Newcastle, there’s a seri@l killer at large.
I gelled straight away with the writing style which makes for easy listening. It’s interesting following Jack with his diagnosis which adds a unique angle. It manages to avoid all the boring dross associated with police procedural investigations, keeping a good pace with snippets of humour that had me chuckling.
It kept my interest throughout and has some good twists and turns. Looking forward to the next instalment.
June 15, 2025
DCI Jack Parker has it all, wife, kid and a good career with the police and colleagues who are now friends. That changes with one car crash, his protege killed and him finding out that he has early onset of dementia. Keeping it hidden from his wife and work, Jack and his team are trying to stop a serial killer, but with signs that dementia is already affecting him, time is running out.
A proper page turner with an original premis. Jack Parker is an interesting character and it’s interesting seeing his development. The story behind the serial killer is also tragic, which does make you think how someone gets to that point.
A proper page turner with an original premis. Jack Parker is an interesting character and it’s interesting seeing his development. The story behind the serial killer is also tragic, which does make you think how someone gets to that point.
August 18, 2025
DCI Jack Parker is on the hunt for a serial killer roaming the streets of Newcastle, all while grappling with the recent loss of a close colleague killed in a hit-and-run. But his greatest challenge isn’t the case—it's the fear of early-onset dementia, a diagnosis that could destroy his career, his sense of self, and his cherished family life.
This book delivers a gripping plot with believable, well-drawn characters. The dementia storyline adds real depth and made it a particularly engaging read. The author balances moments of humour with a sensitive and respectful portrayal of Jack’s diagnosis, which really stood out.
I am really looking forward to the next instalment.
This book delivers a gripping plot with believable, well-drawn characters. The dementia storyline adds real depth and made it a particularly engaging read. The author balances moments of humour with a sensitive and respectful portrayal of Jack’s diagnosis, which really stood out.
I am really looking forward to the next instalment.
March 29, 2025
DCI Jack Parker has faced many challenges in his career, however when he is diagnosed with dementia he faces his biggest test. Struggling to come to terms with the diagnosis he is reminded of his own father’s struggle with this terrible disease and decides to isolate himself from his family. Working on a case that takes him back to a difficult period in his childhood highlights how difficult life can be. As he tries to hide his deteriorating condition from everyone around him he works hard to save lives, including his own.
November 3, 2024
This was an emotional and twisty rollercoaster. The dementia is woven exceptionally well into the story and it is obvious how well researched this is. I enjoyed the beginning and how quickly the inciting incident occurs and how it pushes the story forward. The characters are interesting and I found it hard to put down. I loved the appearance of a character from the Jimmy Mullen trilogy. This is definitely one of my favourite books of the year. Next book please!
March 24, 2025
It is so good, fascinating to see how Jack tries to compensate for his diagnosis and I love the camaraderie in the team. As a Geordie, it was great to relate to the places and characters where the book is set. The story is hard hitting as is the subject of bullying amongst other themes, but very important, yet in a non-preachy way. There's a good balance between Jack's personal life and the action. I look forward to the next in the series.
September 24, 2025
An enjoyable book with some great interplay between characters. The dementia angle seemed to just be to come up with another new way to represent a detective. For me, it took away rather than improved the plot. Also tired cliches were used to move the plot along ( old photo, police not checking family history of murder suspect, pile of cigarettes with the right make). With people watching true crime now, these devices appear weak these days. Still well worth a read.
October 14, 2025
Trevor Wood is a great writer. His latest crime novel, The Silent Killer, is an excellent example of the police procedural, but with added extras. Wood writes with humanity and heart and this tale includes a Newcastle DCI dealing with a recent dementia diagnosis, the silent killer of the book’s title. Wood is always readable and his Jimmy Mullen series of crime novels have certainly set a high bar. He clears that bar Sergei Bubka-style with this excellent book - and then some. A cracking read.
July 9, 2024
I'm a big fan of Trevor Wood as a person and I love the way individual voices come through so clearly (sometimes warts and all) in his books.
This one is no exception: a colourful cast of characters, plenty of witty repartee and a crafty set up for the next in the series.
A proper page turner - I raced through the book.
Bravo Trevor!
This one is no exception: a colourful cast of characters, plenty of witty repartee and a crafty set up for the next in the series.
A proper page turner - I raced through the book.
Bravo Trevor!
January 13, 2025
Top notch Noir
Wood's DCI Parker has a ticking health time bomb which he's keeping from his son, family and colleagues - which only spurs him on to hunt down a killer who is becoming a serial killer in the city of Newcastle.
Full of gritty humour, relatable flawed characters and tight plotting, this is a great page-turner with a clever twist.
Recommended.
Wood's DCI Parker has a ticking health time bomb which he's keeping from his son, family and colleagues - which only spurs him on to hunt down a killer who is becoming a serial killer in the city of Newcastle.
Full of gritty humour, relatable flawed characters and tight plotting, this is a great page-turner with a clever twist.
Recommended.
August 21, 2024
Great storyline & I'm enjoying these new characters.
I'm not keen on main characters with what we might call mental flaws, it's a bit like dream sequences, I like to know where I need to suspend disbelief!! However we're all affected in some way by dementia so I applaud Trevor for including it.
I'm not keen on main characters with what we might call mental flaws, it's a bit like dream sequences, I like to know where I need to suspend disbelief!! However we're all affected in some way by dementia so I applaud Trevor for including it.
October 5, 2024
An exciting new police procedural series. Geordie cop DCI Jack Parker has been diagnosed with early-onset dementia which he is worried will cost his job and destroy his family. Trying to keep this secret, Jack is hunting a serial killer targeting bullies from his old school. A taut thriller.
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