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DI Nick Dixon #15
Blue Blood
Police officers are the target in this gripping thriller from the bestselling DI Nick Dixon crime series.
It is Acting Detective Superintendent Nick Dixon’s wedding day. Gig rowers find a body floating in Bridgwater Bay and when the victim is identified as a serving police officer, executed at point blank range with a 3D printed gun, the assistant chief constable is soon knocking on Dixon’s door—wedding night or not.
It is the third such killing in as many weeks, but the first two victims were drug dealers, with no apparent connection to the dead officer other than the murder weapon itself.
Dixon must navigate a complex web of lies, corruption and betrayal. Taking charge of two major investigation teams, it quickly becomes clear that no one is who they seem. But is it two cases or just one? Is he looking for a motive that doesn’t exist? And can he find the gunsmith before another 3D printed gun finds its way into the wrong hands?
It is Acting Detective Superintendent Nick Dixon’s wedding day. Gig rowers find a body floating in Bridgwater Bay and when the victim is identified as a serving police officer, executed at point blank range with a 3D printed gun, the assistant chief constable is soon knocking on Dixon’s door—wedding night or not.
It is the third such killing in as many weeks, but the first two victims were drug dealers, with no apparent connection to the dead officer other than the murder weapon itself.
Dixon must navigate a complex web of lies, corruption and betrayal. Taking charge of two major investigation teams, it quickly becomes clear that no one is who they seem. But is it two cases or just one? Is he looking for a motive that doesn’t exist? And can he find the gunsmith before another 3D printed gun finds its way into the wrong hands?
365 pages, Paperback
First published June 17, 2025
About the author
Damien Boyd
28 books1,000 followersDamien Boyd is a former solicitor turned crime fiction writer.
Drawing on extensive experience of criminal law as well as a spell in the Crown Prosecution Service, Damien writes fast paced crime novels featuring Detective Inspector Nick Dixon.
Damien is published by Thomas & Mercer.
Drawing on extensive experience of criminal law as well as a spell in the Crown Prosecution Service, Damien writes fast paced crime novels featuring Detective Inspector Nick Dixon.
Damien is published by Thomas & Mercer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
April 9, 2026
This is a Crime Mystery, and this is the 15th book in the DI Nick Dixon series. I have not read the first fourteen books in this series. I read this book by listening to the audiobook of this book, and I did not love the narrator. I found this book boring and hard for me to get into the story. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
June 22, 2025
I have enjoyed the previous DI Dixon books, but this 15th is not at all to my liking. I don't wish to spoil it for others who may be looking forward to this latest entry. I might give myself permission to describe it as preposterous.
Kinde Unlimited
Kinde Unlimited
June 20, 2025
I really love this series. I am invested in the various relationships (Nick & Jane, Louise, Mark); I care about the investigations; I’m always surprised by something; I was thrilled that they were married. Bravo, Damien Boyd, for your terrific work. I definitely recommend this novel. (But do yourself a favor and read them from the first book.)
June 12, 2025
I came in blind to the DI Nick Dixon saga and that didn’t hinder this instalment at all: it touches just enough about his past to give me the gist, without saying so much that I’m sure the long-tenured reader would find it repetitive or even insulting.
Someone is printing 3D guns; and both drug dealers and cops are being found murdered by these nearly-untraceable weapons. DI Nixon’s honeymoon is cut short to put him on this massive case that might be two huge cases accidentally mixed into one.
The mystery is intriguing, the characters are dynamic, and there’s a smart and thrilling sprint to the finish. Along the way we dive into addiction, sexual abuse, the rising concerns of police surveillance, and what families of victims must do to process grief and disappointment. Plus the ending itself is brilliant.
Kudos to our narrator, Simon Mattacks, for expertly delivering the script and adding to the drama. An exceptional voice.
Someone is printing 3D guns; and both drug dealers and cops are being found murdered by these nearly-untraceable weapons. DI Nixon’s honeymoon is cut short to put him on this massive case that might be two huge cases accidentally mixed into one.
The mystery is intriguing, the characters are dynamic, and there’s a smart and thrilling sprint to the finish. Along the way we dive into addiction, sexual abuse, the rising concerns of police surveillance, and what families of victims must do to process grief and disappointment. Plus the ending itself is brilliant.
Kudos to our narrator, Simon Mattacks, for expertly delivering the script and adding to the drama. An exceptional voice.
June 19, 2025
An excellent read. So well written and the research must have taken forever. I often wondered who left all that confetti around Berrow Church. Now I have the answer in writing!!! A brilliantly original storyline covering a number of different issues. The best book I've read this year. Thanks Damien. All you need to do now is write five or six a year. It's a long wait till next June!!!!!
June 30, 2025
On the whole, a much more improved outing from Mr Boyd this time around - although in my mind, still not at the levels of the early stuff. But perhaps that’s nostalgia? Perhaps I should go back and re-read, see if I still agree….
So 3D printing guns is the focal point of this story. It works quite well, playing enough on a contemporary reality in a realistic way. In addition, the plot threats are well-woven and, for the most part, believable.
We are treated as we so often are to some slightly shoe-horned action, with the stakes raised very high perhaps artificially, and without much foundation-laying. Nonetheless, it was functional. The final chapter was a very good cliffhanger too though, I must say, and fits well with the other significant events taking place.
I must admit though, one critical point of this story felt like a small whimper, and another the sort of thing that would have been cracked 200 pages ago had a photo been sought……the always-lurking trap of being “too clever” or trying too hard to be unpredictable, perhaps?
In short, serviceable. Would I read each of these if they weren’t set in the small locale where I grew up? Probably not. But it’s an easy read in mostly a single day in the sun.
So 3D printing guns is the focal point of this story. It works quite well, playing enough on a contemporary reality in a realistic way. In addition, the plot threats are well-woven and, for the most part, believable.
We are treated as we so often are to some slightly shoe-horned action, with the stakes raised very high perhaps artificially, and without much foundation-laying. Nonetheless, it was functional. The final chapter was a very good cliffhanger too though, I must say, and fits well with the other significant events taking place.
I must admit though, one critical point of this story felt like a small whimper, and another the sort of thing that would have been cracked 200 pages ago had a photo been sought……the always-lurking trap of being “too clever” or trying too hard to be unpredictable, perhaps?
In short, serviceable. Would I read each of these if they weren’t set in the small locale where I grew up? Probably not. But it’s an easy read in mostly a single day in the sun.
July 15, 2025
I have read the previous 14 episodes in this series on kindle, this one came up on my Audible account when wanting a book to listen to while doing some handicraft interests. The quality of the voice seemed just right for the characters as I had imagined them from reading. Well done here.
The story finds Nick quickly raaisedd up the ranks as he is now acting a a superintendent of a major crime team, although he has managed to bring Mark and Louise from his previous team. He has now married Jane Winter whose pregnacy is reaching full term, when he is called to the shooting of two victims with what appears to be a 3D printed gun and so the saga begins to unravel. As usual the Assistant Chief Constable,Charlesworth is on his case and trying to limit the damage to the service. Everything ends up in a difficult situation with the perpetrators arrested but Nick once again feeling the wrath of the internal investigators and him suspended. Oh! well opens up nicely for the next edition.
A very good performance and a reccommended read or listen. 4 stars.
The story finds Nick quickly raaisedd up the ranks as he is now acting a a superintendent of a major crime team, although he has managed to bring Mark and Louise from his previous team. He has now married Jane Winter whose pregnacy is reaching full term, when he is called to the shooting of two victims with what appears to be a 3D printed gun and so the saga begins to unravel. As usual the Assistant Chief Constable,Charlesworth is on his case and trying to limit the damage to the service. Everything ends up in a difficult situation with the perpetrators arrested but Nick once again feeling the wrath of the internal investigators and him suspended. Oh! well opens up nicely for the next edition.
A very good performance and a reccommended read or listen. 4 stars.
June 19, 2025
GUNS ARE US
Thoroughly recommend this book, considering what Nick has gone through over the years this was a conclusion. Got married and had a baby too!! Congratulations to them both.
He has always been a loner but this has been his forte and long may it last.
Doesn't paint a great picture of the police, with three of them doing there own thing, revenge is supposed to be sweet?
Roll on the next book.
Thoroughly recommend this book, considering what Nick has gone through over the years this was a conclusion. Got married and had a baby too!! Congratulations to them both.
He has always been a loner but this has been his forte and long may it last.
Doesn't paint a great picture of the police, with three of them doing there own thing, revenge is supposed to be sweet?
Roll on the next book.
July 5, 2025
Couldn’t put it down really enjoyed. Good storyline love all the main characters totally invested in them, left me hanging though!!!!
November 3, 2025
Best book to date
July 13, 2026
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Blue Blood ' by Damien Boyd
This is the second book I have read by this incredible author and I cannot wait to read all the books in between that I have yet to read!! What an absolutely gripping, tension packed addition to this page turning series! An absolute must read for any fans of suspense, crime and/or thriller books! It is the fifteenth book in Damien's 'DI Nick Dixon' series but each book can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'As The Crow Flies' which is the first book in this series and another epic page turner I would also highly recommend.
I absolutely LOVED this book and I really cannot wait to go back and get stuck in to Damien's previous and future books, especially the first and next books in this series!! What an absolutely gripping read!!
OMG!! What an absolutely EPIC twist packed and non stop page-turner!!!! Just flipping wow!!!! This book is seriously an absolutely epic, suspense filled crime thriller!! I was completely hooked from the very first page and throughout!
This book truly is an absolutely epic page turner!!! Well done to Damien Boyd on yet another absolutely INCREDIBLELY addictive, action packed and explosive fast paced read! I would always recommend reading books in a series in order but if you cant resist reading this one first, and who would blame you with this eye catching cover and synopsis sucking you in, plus the fact we actually have some sun so it would make a great read for the garden while sunbathing then have no fear! There is a silver lining in reading later books in a series first. That is that after you finished and fallen in love with this book and Nick, which you will, you can go back and read the previous fourteen books in this series while you are extremely impatiently waiting for the next book in this series to come. You best start reading them now though as the next and sixteenth book in this series is available to pre-order NOW!! It is called 'Seeing Red' and will be released on the 11th August so mark the date on your calendars! I already have. Now is also the perfect time to start reading this series as the first book is available FREE with Kindle Unlimited. It is called 'As The Crow Flies' so run and grab your copy now! In fact, save yourself some time and just grab them all while your there as once you have read one book in this series you will be hooked and end up going back and getting them all anyway! Well done Damien, yet again you have 1000% absolutely smashed it!!!!!!! There is literally nothing that I can say that will justify how good this book is and I cannot wait to meet DI Nick Dixon again in the future books in this extremely promising series. With a storyline ram packed with crime, action, regrets, drama, grit, emotions, suspense, mystery, atmosphere, tension, lies, deceit, secrets, desperation, danger, grief, a cute dog, a cliff hanger ending and so much more what on Earth are you waiting for? If you are a fan of crime, thrillers, suspense or just looking for a brilliant read then THIS is the book you are looking for!! What you actually need to do now is stop wasting your time reading this, RUN like you have never RUN before, do not walk and grab your copy of this gripping page turner now. Oh and definitely make sure that you have cleared your schedules as once you start this book you will not be able to put it down! This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. I absolutely LOVED the unique storyline which had me hooked from the very first page to the last. The only problem you will have when it comes to this book is putting it back down! I will not say anything about the storyline as the publisher has done a fantastic job of this in the synopsis and I do not want to run the risk of giving anything away but If you want to know more then grab your copy of this gripping page turner today and I can GUARANTEE you will not regret it!!! Seriously people, what are you waiting for?!! Damien's absolutely incredible evocative descriptions will have you feeling every emotion that each of the characters are feeling from desperation to anger to fear, shock to tension!! It is one of the most unforgettable and unputdownable books I have ever read!! His brilliant storytelling and writing sucks the reader straight into the storyline with the characters and surroundings coming to life around them. As I was reading this book I could feel my heartbeat speeding up as I was getting a dark sense of foreboding the deeper into the book I got!! It is one of those books that I just simply could not put down and I walked around everywhere with my book glued to my hands. Every single chapter ended in a way that I had to know what was going to happen next and then it would move on to the next chapter and do the same so I blew through this in one sitting of just a few hours. The ending literally left me with my jaw hanging and I cannot wait to meet Nick and many of the characters again in the next book and see what happens after THAT cliff hanger!! Each and every single one of the characters were perfectly written and each had their own unique and strong personalities with individual strengths, weaknesses, quirks, flaws and more. I really cannot wait to meet them again in any possible future books and also going back to read the previous books by this incredible author. You need to clear your schedules because you will not be able to put this book down. AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! The characters were all very strong and realistic and Damien's writing ensured they jumped off the pages at me. They all have their own unique personalities and I enjoyed discovering their histories as the story unravelled. Pick up your copy of this book today and meet these fantastic characters yourself. However, I have got to admit that my absolute favourite just had to be Nick's adorable dog Monty! I am a MASSIVE animal lover and even run my own rescue which is called Golden Oldies Cat Rescue And Hospice (you can find me on social media if you wish). Therefore, any animals in books are a HUGE bonus for me and I cannot wait to meet Monty again in future books. Nick then comes a very close second to his dog lol. I found him realistic, relatable and I enjoyed getting to know him and am looking forward to getting to know even more in the previous and future books. All of the characters are unique with their own personalities, weaknesses, flaws and strengths and I loved meeting and getting to know them all. The only downfall with the characters is that they are entirely fictional even though Damien brings them to life unfortunately, no matter how much I would love to, I am unable to meet up with them in the real world!! I was completely invested in them all throughout and I was gutted when the time came to say Goodbye! Damien truly does an absolutely amazing job of bringing the story to life and the characters leap out of the pages as your turning them thanks to his evocative writing skills and I enjoyed getting to meet them all!! It really goes to show how talented she is creating such a wonderful storyline and all these brilliant characters in his book!
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Damien on another absolutely gripping, explosive, addictive, action packed, explosive and must read unique page turner!!! I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is the exact reason that you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable addictive and explosive MUST READ with a cliff hanger ending!!
@DamienBoyd @ThomasMercer @tandemcollectiveuk
#BlueBlood #DINickDixon #ThomasMercer #TandemCollectiveUK
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Review for 'Blue Blood ' by Damien Boyd
This is the second book I have read by this incredible author and I cannot wait to read all the books in between that I have yet to read!! What an absolutely gripping, tension packed addition to this page turning series! An absolute must read for any fans of suspense, crime and/or thriller books! It is the fifteenth book in Damien's 'DI Nick Dixon' series but each book can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'As The Crow Flies' which is the first book in this series and another epic page turner I would also highly recommend.
I absolutely LOVED this book and I really cannot wait to go back and get stuck in to Damien's previous and future books, especially the first and next books in this series!! What an absolutely gripping read!!
OMG!! What an absolutely EPIC twist packed and non stop page-turner!!!! Just flipping wow!!!! This book is seriously an absolutely epic, suspense filled crime thriller!! I was completely hooked from the very first page and throughout!
This book truly is an absolutely epic page turner!!! Well done to Damien Boyd on yet another absolutely INCREDIBLELY addictive, action packed and explosive fast paced read! I would always recommend reading books in a series in order but if you cant resist reading this one first, and who would blame you with this eye catching cover and synopsis sucking you in, plus the fact we actually have some sun so it would make a great read for the garden while sunbathing then have no fear! There is a silver lining in reading later books in a series first. That is that after you finished and fallen in love with this book and Nick, which you will, you can go back and read the previous fourteen books in this series while you are extremely impatiently waiting for the next book in this series to come. You best start reading them now though as the next and sixteenth book in this series is available to pre-order NOW!! It is called 'Seeing Red' and will be released on the 11th August so mark the date on your calendars! I already have. Now is also the perfect time to start reading this series as the first book is available FREE with Kindle Unlimited. It is called 'As The Crow Flies' so run and grab your copy now! In fact, save yourself some time and just grab them all while your there as once you have read one book in this series you will be hooked and end up going back and getting them all anyway! Well done Damien, yet again you have 1000% absolutely smashed it!!!!!!! There is literally nothing that I can say that will justify how good this book is and I cannot wait to meet DI Nick Dixon again in the future books in this extremely promising series. With a storyline ram packed with crime, action, regrets, drama, grit, emotions, suspense, mystery, atmosphere, tension, lies, deceit, secrets, desperation, danger, grief, a cute dog, a cliff hanger ending and so much more what on Earth are you waiting for? If you are a fan of crime, thrillers, suspense or just looking for a brilliant read then THIS is the book you are looking for!! What you actually need to do now is stop wasting your time reading this, RUN like you have never RUN before, do not walk and grab your copy of this gripping page turner now. Oh and definitely make sure that you have cleared your schedules as once you start this book you will not be able to put it down! This book is fantastically written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. I absolutely LOVED the unique storyline which had me hooked from the very first page to the last. The only problem you will have when it comes to this book is putting it back down! I will not say anything about the storyline as the publisher has done a fantastic job of this in the synopsis and I do not want to run the risk of giving anything away but If you want to know more then grab your copy of this gripping page turner today and I can GUARANTEE you will not regret it!!! Seriously people, what are you waiting for?!! Damien's absolutely incredible evocative descriptions will have you feeling every emotion that each of the characters are feeling from desperation to anger to fear, shock to tension!! It is one of the most unforgettable and unputdownable books I have ever read!! His brilliant storytelling and writing sucks the reader straight into the storyline with the characters and surroundings coming to life around them. As I was reading this book I could feel my heartbeat speeding up as I was getting a dark sense of foreboding the deeper into the book I got!! It is one of those books that I just simply could not put down and I walked around everywhere with my book glued to my hands. Every single chapter ended in a way that I had to know what was going to happen next and then it would move on to the next chapter and do the same so I blew through this in one sitting of just a few hours. The ending literally left me with my jaw hanging and I cannot wait to meet Nick and many of the characters again in the next book and see what happens after THAT cliff hanger!! Each and every single one of the characters were perfectly written and each had their own unique and strong personalities with individual strengths, weaknesses, quirks, flaws and more. I really cannot wait to meet them again in any possible future books and also going back to read the previous books by this incredible author. You need to clear your schedules because you will not be able to put this book down. AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!! The characters were all very strong and realistic and Damien's writing ensured they jumped off the pages at me. They all have their own unique personalities and I enjoyed discovering their histories as the story unravelled. Pick up your copy of this book today and meet these fantastic characters yourself. However, I have got to admit that my absolute favourite just had to be Nick's adorable dog Monty! I am a MASSIVE animal lover and even run my own rescue which is called Golden Oldies Cat Rescue And Hospice (you can find me on social media if you wish). Therefore, any animals in books are a HUGE bonus for me and I cannot wait to meet Monty again in future books. Nick then comes a very close second to his dog lol. I found him realistic, relatable and I enjoyed getting to know him and am looking forward to getting to know even more in the previous and future books. All of the characters are unique with their own personalities, weaknesses, flaws and strengths and I loved meeting and getting to know them all. The only downfall with the characters is that they are entirely fictional even though Damien brings them to life unfortunately, no matter how much I would love to, I am unable to meet up with them in the real world!! I was completely invested in them all throughout and I was gutted when the time came to say Goodbye! Damien truly does an absolutely amazing job of bringing the story to life and the characters leap out of the pages as your turning them thanks to his evocative writing skills and I enjoyed getting to meet them all!! It really goes to show how talented she is creating such a wonderful storyline and all these brilliant characters in his book!
A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Damien on another absolutely gripping, explosive, addictive, action packed, explosive and must read unique page turner!!! I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your previous and future books. I would absolutely love to see this book turned into a movie!!! This is the exact reason that you are on my favourite author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable addictive and explosive MUST READ with a cliff hanger ending!!
@DamienBoyd @ThomasMercer @tandemcollectiveuk
#BlueBlood #DINickDixon #ThomasMercer #TandemCollectiveUK
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November 30, 2025
I know they require some suspension of disbelief. I suspended through the cheap filament. and the beginner printing in nylon with no drying. but a 4kW consumer printer in a back room? come on. that's a suspension of disbelief too far.
otherwise, it was fine I guess. felt quite slow. not my favourite, unfortunately.
otherwise, it was fine I guess. felt quite slow. not my favourite, unfortunately.
June 30, 2025
Bad Ending
I do not like this ending/cliffhanger and may not read the next one because of it. Which is a shame, really, as I have really enjoyed these books - even this one (up until the ending). And now I’m sad 😢
I do not like this ending/cliffhanger and may not read the next one because of it. Which is a shame, really, as I have really enjoyed these books - even this one (up until the ending). And now I’m sad 😢
June 24, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
Blue Blood by Damien Boyd, narrated by Simon Mattacks
In Blue Blood, the fifteenth installment of Damien Boyd’s DI Nick Dixon series, the stakes are personal, the politics are murky, and the bullets are 3D-printed. What begins as a grim interruption to Dixon’s wedding day—a body found floating in Bridgwater Bay—quickly escalates into a chilling investigation that blurs the line between justice and betrayal. The victim? A fellow police officer. The weapon? A ghost gun. And the motive? That’s where things get complicated.
Boyd’s writing is as taut and efficient as ever, but what sets this entry apart is its thematic ambition. Blue Blood isn’t just a procedural—it’s a meditation on institutional rot, loyalty, and the cost of leadership. Dixon, now Acting Detective Superintendent, must juggle two major investigations while navigating a force riddled with secrets. The question isn’t just whodunit—it’s who can be trusted.
Simon Mattacks returns to the series with a performance that’s both grounded and gripping. His portrayal of Dixon is steady and unflinching, capturing the detective’s moral clarity even as the world around him fractures. Mattacks handles the ensemble cast with finesse, giving each voice a distinct cadence without ever veering into caricature. His pacing is deliberate, letting the tension simmer before delivering the gut punches.
The audiobook format enhances the novel’s layered structure, especially as Boyd weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives. The soundscape is minimal, allowing Mattacks’s voice to carry the emotional weight of the story—whether it’s a tense interrogation or a quiet moment of doubt.
Blue Blood by Damien Boyd, narrated by Simon Mattacks
In Blue Blood, the fifteenth installment of Damien Boyd’s DI Nick Dixon series, the stakes are personal, the politics are murky, and the bullets are 3D-printed. What begins as a grim interruption to Dixon’s wedding day—a body found floating in Bridgwater Bay—quickly escalates into a chilling investigation that blurs the line between justice and betrayal. The victim? A fellow police officer. The weapon? A ghost gun. And the motive? That’s where things get complicated.
Boyd’s writing is as taut and efficient as ever, but what sets this entry apart is its thematic ambition. Blue Blood isn’t just a procedural—it’s a meditation on institutional rot, loyalty, and the cost of leadership. Dixon, now Acting Detective Superintendent, must juggle two major investigations while navigating a force riddled with secrets. The question isn’t just whodunit—it’s who can be trusted.
Simon Mattacks returns to the series with a performance that’s both grounded and gripping. His portrayal of Dixon is steady and unflinching, capturing the detective’s moral clarity even as the world around him fractures. Mattacks handles the ensemble cast with finesse, giving each voice a distinct cadence without ever veering into caricature. His pacing is deliberate, letting the tension simmer before delivering the gut punches.
The audiobook format enhances the novel’s layered structure, especially as Boyd weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives. The soundscape is minimal, allowing Mattacks’s voice to carry the emotional weight of the story—whether it’s a tense interrogation or a quiet moment of doubt.
September 27, 2025
Damien Boyd dives into the corrupt world of the elite in Blue Blood, the fifteenth installment of the DI Nick Dixon series. This novel takes Dixon away from the familiar Somerset countryside and plunges him into a high-society investigation where wealth shields dark secrets and powerful players operate above the law. The crime is shocking, set against a backdrop of opulence and entitlement, forcing Dixon to navigate a complex web of deceit where everyone has something to hide.
The story is a masterclass in tension, as Dixon meticulously strips away the layers of privilege to reveal a chilling core of moral compromise. The investigation requires his absolute focus, yet the stakes are higher than ever on a personal level. Jane is now heavily pregnant, and the immense pressure of this case, coupled with the potential danger of antagonizing powerful enemies, creates an intense internal conflict for Dixon.
This juxtaposition of professional duty and imminent fatherhood is skillfully handled, lending a sense of acute vulnerability to the narrative. The events that unfold in Blue Blood are not just about solving a case; they lay the groundwork for decisions and consequences that promise to have serious, long-term repercussions for Dixon, Jane, and their future. This installment raises the stakes considerably, suggesting profound changes are coming for the main characters.
Blue Blood is a gripping exploration of power, class, and consequence. It’s a compelling, intricate mystery that feels like a pivotal moment in the series, leaving the reader with a palpable sense of anticipation for the future.
The story is a masterclass in tension, as Dixon meticulously strips away the layers of privilege to reveal a chilling core of moral compromise. The investigation requires his absolute focus, yet the stakes are higher than ever on a personal level. Jane is now heavily pregnant, and the immense pressure of this case, coupled with the potential danger of antagonizing powerful enemies, creates an intense internal conflict for Dixon.
This juxtaposition of professional duty and imminent fatherhood is skillfully handled, lending a sense of acute vulnerability to the narrative. The events that unfold in Blue Blood are not just about solving a case; they lay the groundwork for decisions and consequences that promise to have serious, long-term repercussions for Dixon, Jane, and their future. This installment raises the stakes considerably, suggesting profound changes are coming for the main characters.
Blue Blood is a gripping exploration of power, class, and consequence. It’s a compelling, intricate mystery that feels like a pivotal moment in the series, leaving the reader with a palpable sense of anticipation for the future.
July 10, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This was my first book by Damien Boyd and I really enjoyed it. I love a good police procedural and this had all the best elements of one. There was an interesting case, plenty of suspects and enough twists to keep me guessing the whole way through.
On what should be one of the happiest days of DI Nick Dixon’s life, a murdered police officer is discovered, pulling him straight into a major investigation. As more evidence comes to light, the case becomes increasingly complicated, with links to organised crime and other murders that are not immediately obvious.
Even though this is the fifteenth book in the series, I didn’t feel like I’d missed loads by starting here. It was clear these characters have a lot of history together and I actually liked jumping into those established relationships. The team were all very likeable and felt well developed, which made it easy to care about what was happening both in and out of the investigation.
The plot was really well layered and I never guessed who was behind it all, which I always appreciate. The investigation unfolded at a steady pace and felt believable, with the focus on proper police work rather than constant action.
The only reason this wasn’t a higher rating for me was that there were quite a few characters and different threads to keep up with, so I occasionally had to stop and remind myself who everyone was.
The ending definitely made me want to carry on with the series, and I’ll absolutely be picking up the next book.
This was my first book by Damien Boyd and I really enjoyed it. I love a good police procedural and this had all the best elements of one. There was an interesting case, plenty of suspects and enough twists to keep me guessing the whole way through.
On what should be one of the happiest days of DI Nick Dixon’s life, a murdered police officer is discovered, pulling him straight into a major investigation. As more evidence comes to light, the case becomes increasingly complicated, with links to organised crime and other murders that are not immediately obvious.
Even though this is the fifteenth book in the series, I didn’t feel like I’d missed loads by starting here. It was clear these characters have a lot of history together and I actually liked jumping into those established relationships. The team were all very likeable and felt well developed, which made it easy to care about what was happening both in and out of the investigation.
The plot was really well layered and I never guessed who was behind it all, which I always appreciate. The investigation unfolded at a steady pace and felt believable, with the focus on proper police work rather than constant action.
The only reason this wasn’t a higher rating for me was that there were quite a few characters and different threads to keep up with, so I occasionally had to stop and remind myself who everyone was.
The ending definitely made me want to carry on with the series, and I’ll absolutely be picking up the next book.
July 22, 2026
Blue Blood is book 15 in the DI Nick Dixon series. I have read the first 3 books prior to picking this one up and whilst it can be read as a standalone if you don't mind jumping in to the main character's story progression, some background knowledge may make the character/story investment more beneficial.
This book starts with Nick's wedding day, a moment we have all been waiting for. On what should be the happiest day of his life a fellow police officer is murdered, dragging him straight back into the line of duty. As new evidence comes to light and links to 2 previous murders of drug dealers, Nick is soon unravelling corruption, a complex web of lies and betrayals.
This is the fourth book I have read in this series (I read the first 3 prior) and it didn't disappoint. An eye-catching cover, a ollercoaster of a plot and a thrilling ride to discover what is really going on. I love the continuation in the character's growth and storylines, it's one I've remained invested in since the first book. Nick's team are all very likeable too. Boyd's writing style is always fab, both gritty and engaging, keeping you guessing which way it will go until the very end. It definitely gave me the push I needed to go back and finish the rest of the series, for the character stories alone. Plus there is no way I can leave things hanging with THAT ending.
The only minor issue I had was that the pacing was a bit up and down at times for my taste, but this could be down to the fact I mixed my reading with the audiobook as well which may have impacted the vibe.
This book starts with Nick's wedding day, a moment we have all been waiting for. On what should be the happiest day of his life a fellow police officer is murdered, dragging him straight back into the line of duty. As new evidence comes to light and links to 2 previous murders of drug dealers, Nick is soon unravelling corruption, a complex web of lies and betrayals.
This is the fourth book I have read in this series (I read the first 3 prior) and it didn't disappoint. An eye-catching cover, a ollercoaster of a plot and a thrilling ride to discover what is really going on. I love the continuation in the character's growth and storylines, it's one I've remained invested in since the first book. Nick's team are all very likeable too. Boyd's writing style is always fab, both gritty and engaging, keeping you guessing which way it will go until the very end. It definitely gave me the push I needed to go back and finish the rest of the series, for the character stories alone. Plus there is no way I can leave things hanging with THAT ending.
The only minor issue I had was that the pacing was a bit up and down at times for my taste, but this could be down to the fact I mixed my reading with the audiobook as well which may have impacted the vibe.
June 23, 2025
Blue Blood by Damien Boyd and narrated by Simon Mattacks was a brilliant audiobook and the 15th book in the DI Nick Dixon series . . . . especially as this is the first book I have listened to from this author and I really enjoyed it. It was full of twists and turns throughout and I enjoyed learning about DI Nick Dixon's character.
Nick Dixon is acting Detective Superintendent and today is his wedding day. This should have been a happy day for both of them, which it was, until he had to put his wedding night on hold. . . . A body was found floating in Bridgewater Bay. When the Police looked closer to the body he was identified as one of there's he is a serving Police officer. They have been executed at point blank range with a 3D printed gun, It is the third such killing in as many weeks, but the first two victims were drug dealers, with no apparent connection to the dead officer other than the murder weapon itself.
Now, Nick Dixon has to navigate a complex web of lies, corruption and betrayal. By taking charge of two major investigation teams, By doing this, it quickly becomes clear that no one is who they seem.
But, is it two cases or just one?
Is he looking for a motive that doesn’t exist?
And can he find the gunsmith before another 3D printed gun finds its way into the wrong hands?
Wow this audiobook was excellent and the narrator Simon Mattacks was excellent.
Now I need to read the other books within this excellent DI Nick Dixon series .
Nick Dixon is acting Detective Superintendent and today is his wedding day. This should have been a happy day for both of them, which it was, until he had to put his wedding night on hold. . . . A body was found floating in Bridgewater Bay. When the Police looked closer to the body he was identified as one of there's he is a serving Police officer. They have been executed at point blank range with a 3D printed gun, It is the third such killing in as many weeks, but the first two victims were drug dealers, with no apparent connection to the dead officer other than the murder weapon itself.
Now, Nick Dixon has to navigate a complex web of lies, corruption and betrayal. By taking charge of two major investigation teams, By doing this, it quickly becomes clear that no one is who they seem.
But, is it two cases or just one?
Is he looking for a motive that doesn’t exist?
And can he find the gunsmith before another 3D printed gun finds its way into the wrong hands?
Wow this audiobook was excellent and the narrator Simon Mattacks was excellent.
Now I need to read the other books within this excellent DI Nick Dixon series .
August 31, 2025
Acting Superintendent Nick Dixon is getting married to Jane, at last, a fellow police officer who is 7mths pregnant with their first child. However the phones start going off during the church service with police officers having to dash out, including Nick at his reception! A police officer has been found in the river by a rowing team and the officer seems to have been shot by a 3d printed gun. Can't understand how they make these things despite being given a full on report by one of the guys in Nick's team. Anyway the dead officer is not the only one, his police partner has also been found in a locked shipping container by the river, and before that 2 drug dealers were found dead in a flat. So quite a busy time for Nick.
Nick finds himself running two teams, one for the two dead drug dealers and one for the two dead police officers. But he begins to think that they are linked and so should the teams be. On top of this he has a man who wants to be the new Police and Crime Commissioner but does he have a shady past? Tensions are growing between members of the public who are holding demonstrations over the pulling in of the soon to be Commissioner and putting him in the spotlight in a not very good manner. Then the body count starts to raise again.
Liked this enormously, bit plodding in the middle but it all settles down again and ends with a satisfying conclusion. Well almost. Where did the second gun go? Well we the readers know don't we...
Nick finds himself running two teams, one for the two dead drug dealers and one for the two dead police officers. But he begins to think that they are linked and so should the teams be. On top of this he has a man who wants to be the new Police and Crime Commissioner but does he have a shady past? Tensions are growing between members of the public who are holding demonstrations over the pulling in of the soon to be Commissioner and putting him in the spotlight in a not very good manner. Then the body count starts to raise again.
Liked this enormously, bit plodding in the middle but it all settles down again and ends with a satisfying conclusion. Well almost. Where did the second gun go? Well we the readers know don't we...
May 30, 2025
This is a series that I've jumped into without having read any of the previous books. It worked as a standalone but I think I would have benefited from reading previous books in the series for some of the background. The book starts off with the wedding day of the main character Nick Dixon and it feels a lot like I've been dropped into a story that was already in progress. As for the case that he's working on, it involves a fellow police officer but there are a LOT of names that are thrown around and that furthers some of my confusion about which one was the officer and which ones are the criminals that are also dead that they feel are related to the original case. Often I find that when a British narrator of an audiobook is used there is less "changes" to the voice for different characters and so when listening it can start to all run together. This audiobook falls into that trap and thus does require extra effort to focus on who is talking and who they are talking about. Not an easy listen for me and I listen to 4-6 audiobooks a week. With that said, the case is complicated and interesting and I think I'd prefer to read this author with my eyes instead of my ears. Look forward to more from him.
July 19, 2025
My rating is actually 4.5 stars but Goodreads doesn't allow for half stars.
This is book 15 in the DI Nick Dixon crime series and we have someone using 3-D printed guns to commit crimes. Dixon has been pulled off his honeymoon to lead to major investigation teams to solve these crimes. We have a complex web of lies, we have corruption, we have betrayal, we have the deaths of two drug dealers and also a police officer, and this is just the beginning , and if that’s not enough Dixon and the team need to find and stop the person printing the 3-D firearms.
I absolutely love this series and I’m glad to say that this one did not disappoint. It was full of great plot twists and red herrings. This series just gets better and better with each new book. I love the characters and their growth since the first book, it has great pace and the writing style is fab. This is another rollercoaster ride and I cannot wait for the next one. This was a great 4.5 star read for me and I would highly recommend.
This is book 15 in the DI Nick Dixon crime series and we have someone using 3-D printed guns to commit crimes. Dixon has been pulled off his honeymoon to lead to major investigation teams to solve these crimes. We have a complex web of lies, we have corruption, we have betrayal, we have the deaths of two drug dealers and also a police officer, and this is just the beginning , and if that’s not enough Dixon and the team need to find and stop the person printing the 3-D firearms.
I absolutely love this series and I’m glad to say that this one did not disappoint. It was full of great plot twists and red herrings. This series just gets better and better with each new book. I love the characters and their growth since the first book, it has great pace and the writing style is fab. This is another rollercoaster ride and I cannot wait for the next one. This was a great 4.5 star read for me and I would highly recommend.
June 14, 2025
Damien Boyd delivers another standout entry in British crime fiction with Blue Blood, a fast-paced and twist-filled thriller that keeps readers fully engaged from start to finish. At the heart of the novel is a determined and sharply intelligent investigator whose grit and likability anchor the story. It’s hard not to be drawn to his relentless pursuit of justice and the dynamic presence he brings to the page.
The plot is rich with unexpected turns, layered with tension, and bolstered by a colorful cast of supporting characters that add depth and intrigue. Boyd doesn’t hold back on complexity, taking the narrative to thrilling heights without losing control of its momentum. Blue Blood is a compelling and entertaining read for fans of smart, character-driven crime stories—you won’t want to miss it.
The plot is rich with unexpected turns, layered with tension, and bolstered by a colorful cast of supporting characters that add depth and intrigue. Boyd doesn’t hold back on complexity, taking the narrative to thrilling heights without losing control of its momentum. Blue Blood is a compelling and entertaining read for fans of smart, character-driven crime stories—you won’t want to miss it.
June 18, 2025
once again... Damien Boyd has written a fantastic story that has made me laugh and cry! we finally get to see Nick and Jane marry, but they don't even get to the honeymoon, because a body of a police officer has been found shot, and his partner is still missing from the last time both were seen.
there are so many twists, turns and possible suspects, but nothing seems to match up with anything, is it one killer or two? is it linked to something that happened years before? or corrupt police or drug dealing... so many things in the mix, and we don't get to find out any answers until almost the end, when after Jane is rushed into hospital and Nick is waiting for news, that what has been at the back of his mind finally becomes clear....who THE KILLER is... another 5⭐️ read, which ends with a heart stopping tease of what to expect for Nick in book 16
there are so many twists, turns and possible suspects, but nothing seems to match up with anything, is it one killer or two? is it linked to something that happened years before? or corrupt police or drug dealing... so many things in the mix, and we don't get to find out any answers until almost the end, when after Jane is rushed into hospital and Nick is waiting for news, that what has been at the back of his mind finally becomes clear....who THE KILLER is... another 5⭐️ read, which ends with a heart stopping tease of what to expect for Nick in book 16
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2026
This is book 15 in the DI Dixon series, and normally this is one of my favourite, go to series but I found this one quite difficult and over complicated to follow. The narrative is pretty standard for this genre in terms of police procedural stories, but there were so many characters in this one that I lost track and got confused, and honestly I’m not 100% I actually understand who the killer/killers were in the end or the motive, and the little twist at the end, whilst a bit exciting, I’m not sure what the motivation for it was and felt like it was added in a bit randomly for drama. It did end on a bit of a cliff hanger which will mean I go back to the next instalment and hope it’s back to its normal standard! I do like that this series is available on kindle unlimited as it’s an easy one to dip in to when I get chance, but not sure I would pay upfront for them individually.
July 8, 2026
I’ve not read any of this series before, this is book 15 in the series and what a book! So much happening from the offset - bodies, weddings, feuds - you name it, it’s in there. Nick is getting married when we meet him, then during the service phones start pinging and vibrating with news of a body found by a rowing club. He tries to not get involved but as we know this never works out in a murder mystery book!
Soon, there is more than 1 body and multiple suspects who then end up dead! There are drug dealers and a police officer amongst the bodies, but are they connected? That’s what Nick and his 2 teams have to work out, one case or two?
This was a fast paced book that I didn’t want to end and had no idea how it was all linked. I think I will go back and read the series from the start at some point, I really enjoyed the writing style and the characters.
Soon, there is more than 1 body and multiple suspects who then end up dead! There are drug dealers and a police officer amongst the bodies, but are they connected? That’s what Nick and his 2 teams have to work out, one case or two?
This was a fast paced book that I didn’t want to end and had no idea how it was all linked. I think I will go back and read the series from the start at some point, I really enjoyed the writing style and the characters.
June 24, 2025
This book was fast-paced and it skillfully balanced multiple timelines and perspectives. The minimalist soundscape allowed the narrator, Simon Mattacks, to shine, capturing the emotional depth of both tense and quiet moments. Though it’s the 15th book in the DI Nick Dixon series, it works well as a standalone—as it offered enough backstory for new listeners (like myself). The plot was well-researched and engaging, touching on themes like addiction, sexual abuse, police surveillance, and the emotional toll on victims' families. The mystery was compelling, the characters were complex, and the ending was especially satisfying. It was a thought-provoking and thrilling listen that left a strong impression
Thank you NetGalley and Brillance Audio for the Audio ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and Brillance Audio for the Audio ARC.
June 28, 2025
It was detective Nick Dixon’s wedding day but then he gets a call from the police department. They found an executed police officer, who got shot by a 3D printed gun. They need Dixon to investigate this murder.
Blue Blood is a detective thriller that is part of a series. I read this book as a standalone and it was fine but reading the other books first gives you more information and storyline.
I really wanted to like this book but it wasn’t for me. I wasn’t really engaged and found it boring at times.
I listened to this book as an audiobook and the production was great. The narrator was really good and I liked the accents he did for a few characters.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️: 2,3
Blue Blood is a detective thriller that is part of a series. I read this book as a standalone and it was fine but reading the other books first gives you more information and storyline.
I really wanted to like this book but it wasn’t for me. I wasn’t really engaged and found it boring at times.
I listened to this book as an audiobook and the production was great. The narrator was really good and I liked the accents he did for a few characters.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️: 2,3
September 11, 2025
Another Good Book In The Series
There is no peace for the wicked, or so they say. It is DI Dixon's wedding day but a body has been found in Bridgwater Bay, so Nick has to leave his new bride, luckily they did manage to get married first, and attend the crime since the victim was a serving policeman. The man had been shot with a 3D printed gun, same as two the fate of two drug dealers, so Nick has to take charge of two investigations, in case they are somehow related. I must thank the author for explaining what 3D printing involved, I have always wondered, couldn't get my head round it! I really enjoyed this book as I have the whole series, let's hope there will be another book to follow.
There is no peace for the wicked, or so they say. It is DI Dixon's wedding day but a body has been found in Bridgwater Bay, so Nick has to leave his new bride, luckily they did manage to get married first, and attend the crime since the victim was a serving policeman. The man had been shot with a 3D printed gun, same as two the fate of two drug dealers, so Nick has to take charge of two investigations, in case they are somehow related. I must thank the author for explaining what 3D printing involved, I have always wondered, couldn't get my head round it! I really enjoyed this book as I have the whole series, let's hope there will be another book to follow.
July 13, 2026
This was my first introduction to DI Nick Dixon and I am hooked! I have a back catalogue of 14 books that I now need to read. Advertised as a gripping thriller it did not disappoint.
Two cases each horrific crimes, the rush is on to find the killers and determine whether the cases are linked. What I liked about this storyline is its use of a crime that is becoming a threat in modern day life, highlighting new tools for criminals and the challenges they inevitably bring to policing.
As the book progressed so did the tension, the pace picking up into an explosive conclusion and when I thought it was all done the last two pages dropped a massive cliffhanger I did not see coming! It is set up for a very interesting start to book 16.
A fast paced gripping thriller, with intertwining storylines, a wealth of suspects and victims with dark secrets. A must read for fans of thrillers or police procedural the twists will stay with you after that final page.
Two cases each horrific crimes, the rush is on to find the killers and determine whether the cases are linked. What I liked about this storyline is its use of a crime that is becoming a threat in modern day life, highlighting new tools for criminals and the challenges they inevitably bring to policing.
As the book progressed so did the tension, the pace picking up into an explosive conclusion and when I thought it was all done the last two pages dropped a massive cliffhanger I did not see coming! It is set up for a very interesting start to book 16.
A fast paced gripping thriller, with intertwining storylines, a wealth of suspects and victims with dark secrets. A must read for fans of thrillers or police procedural the twists will stay with you after that final page.
July 15, 2026
Mind boggling and twisty
An amazing story with an ending that leaves me wanting the next book. This was my introduction to DI Dixon and I will be going back to read them all was absolutely hooked and could not put it down - physical book for at home, ebook for work commute and audio book for in the office - I could not get enough. Loved that it was a local setting for me and really enjoyed the way they didn't over explain past events and books while giving you enough information to still understand the history of the characters. Loved that no matter what Dixon was a dog owner first always checking on Monty no matter how bad his day was. Worth a read and need to read all the rest now!
An amazing story with an ending that leaves me wanting the next book. This was my introduction to DI Dixon and I will be going back to read them all was absolutely hooked and could not put it down - physical book for at home, ebook for work commute and audio book for in the office - I could not get enough. Loved that it was a local setting for me and really enjoyed the way they didn't over explain past events and books while giving you enough information to still understand the history of the characters. Loved that no matter what Dixon was a dog owner first always checking on Monty no matter how bad his day was. Worth a read and need to read all the rest now!
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