Bad Deeds

DCI Harry Grimm #21

by David J. Gatward

As the delicate threads of community begin to unravel, can Harry Grimm trap a malicious puppeteer before their malevolent game leads to murder?

When beloved local mechanic, Mike, causes a serious motoring accident, DCI Grimm’s instincts tell him something is very wrong. But with no trail of evidence to follow, he is left grappling in the dark for clues.

Then, in the usually tranquil Swaledale village of Muker, the local baker is poisoned, and a chilling reality unfolds: these accidents are no string of coincidences, but orchestrated acts of malice conducted by a shadowy foe.

As the paranoia intensifies and the stakes escalate, Harry is drawn deeper into a labyrinth of deception and betrayal. Can he untangle a sinister web of secrets before the next bad deed becomes murder?

Brace yourself for a gripping thriller that explores the fine line between community loyalty and hidden treachery, where even the most charming village can harbour a heart of darkness.

How far would you go to hide the truth? Buy Bad Deeds today!

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Ebooks, Fiction, British Literature

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2025

Reviews

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets and Blackmail

David weaves a great mystery that has his characters running around chasing clue after clue.

I love hearing about the setting, it sounds beautiful. Never having visited the area I enjoy the detailed descriptions that help me "see" the area.

Gatward's characters are very well developed, often times I find myself more curious about what, Harry, Matt, Dave, Jadyn, Liz, Grace, Sauerbee, (spelling/I listen on Audio), and Ben are doing at home. Now we have Ethan added to the team; he replaced Gordie (you can follow her in her spin off series (DI Haig Crime Thrillers; 3 books released) I'm looking forward to learing about Ethan's character. I love how they work together to figure out the mystery.

This is one of my favorite series to read/listen to. Aubrey Parsons has voiced these characters so well that each character had a distinct voice. You can tell who is talking in their conversations.


This is the 21st book in the series, I hope we have many more.

[Erin Gilmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest DCI Harry Grimm novel features someone forcing people to harm themselves as part of a blackmail scheme. Harry and his team have to figure out who is behind the blackmail, and the answer is far from straightforward. Harry also meets with his mysterious uncle and then his menacing cousin, both of whom add to the somber tone of the novel. Very well done. I continue to love the series.

[Linda Woodley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I .love all of DCI Grimm stories and this one is no exception
Someone is causing the Baker mechanic and tree specialist to have serious accidents
It turns out itsthe caretaker and his family
They his Uncle get blown up
Very enjoyable read

[John Hinchliffe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio Version
A fantastic addition to the Harry Grimm series! Dave Gatward’s descriptive storytelling truly brings the Yorkshire countryside to life—you can almost see the rolling hills of Wensleydale and Swaledale as you listen. The sense of place is so vivid it feels like taking a trip without leaving your chair. Oh! and of course, at the heart of it all is another gripping mystery that keeps you hooked from start to .
finish. Aubrey Parsons’ narration adds just the right tone and pacing, making the experience even more enjoyable. Highly recommended.

[Leorah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Magical Dales Prevail

Another successful DCI Grimm novel. I never tire of reading this series.
I will look forward to reading the next installment.

[Hermien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series.

[Hans · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, another very mediocre entry into the not so long running yet already quite expansive DCI Harry Grimm series. Large parts of the novel once again consist of the author reiterating his love for the Wensleydale region, while the majority of the plot is neither here nor there. There's a big focus on the team's and especially Harry's personal affairs, some of them being sweet, some a bit boring and some outright preposterous. So, Harry suddenly has an uncle who, like Harry's father, is also some sort of crime kingpin? And said uncle wants to turn his life around in his old age, much to the chagrin of his son, Harry's cousin, who not only threatens Harry despite knowing he is a police officer but also blows up his dad via remote right in front of Harry? And Harry not only doesn't make the connection between his cousin typing something into his mobile phone and the phonecall to his uncle suddenly going dead, but his reaction when he finds out what happened can only be described as "meh"? Come on, detective, remember?

Sadly, the case this novel revolves around also isn't anything to write home about. There are three incidents that initially look like unfortunate yet unlikely accidents, but it's made clear to the reader from the very beginning that they very much aren't. Nevertheless, it takes almost 5 hours into a barely 8 hours long audiobook until Harry and his team actually begin to make the connections and realise that crimes have been commited. This of course doesn't leave a lot of room for an engaging investigation and thus, information is either gathered by Harry giving people a stern talking to or it simply pops up out of nowhere. The solution then is as far fetched as the whole case itself.

And finally, to reiterate my criticism of some of the previous books in the series. I get that David J. Gatward probably has to stick to a tight release schedule for income reasons, but he seems to be overstretching himself and it shows in the quality of some of his more recent novels. Now, if you are looking for a rather relaxed and at times even cozy read with a lot of appreciation for the characters and the region the story takes place in, this might still be your go to series. But if you're looking for a crime thriller with an engaging case, look somewhere else, because at least for the moment, David J. Gatward doesn't seem to have any of those in him anymore. I honestly don't get how this has so many 4 and 5 star reviews. It can't be the case, unless you've never read a halfway decent crime thriller before.

[Stephen A. Matthews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written crime mystery and another tourism ad for the Yorkshire Dales:

David Gatward has crafted an amazing series and the latest edition (Book 21) was in many ways a very innovative addition. A car accident to a friend of the team kicks off this crime mystery. An investigation into the accident suggests the dots do not line up and then other events occur with their own unlinked dots. Can Grimm, Matt, Liz and the team discover the links? The story is both simple and complex and exceptionally well told. Just when the reader thinks they know what is happening something new emerges. As usual, the crime mystery is deeply embedded in the daily lives of Harry and his team and the loyal reader will be rewarded in many, many small ways. And once again, David Gatward has offered up another tourism plug for (love letter to) the Yorkshire Dales and its people. Crime warts aside the description in the book makes one long to be in the Dales working among Harry Grimm’s team, sampling the baked goods, cheese, beer, and other pub food (so many tourism hints in every book) … and walking around the Dales and even just standing still soaking it all in.

[Grey853 · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the 21st book in the Harry Grimm series, BAD DEEDS, there are a series of accidents that seem suspicious. Harry and his team soon realize that a poisoning, a crash and chainsaw accident are somehow connected. They might not be accidents at all, but something far more sinister. Intertwined are bits of personal things going on with Harry.

The book is well written and well paced. I love the team dynamic and all the regular characters in the book. There are long passages of Harry admiring the view, marveling how his life has turned around since his coming to the Dales. The dialogue is realistic and snappy.

It's a good book and a solid entry. I gave it a four instead of a five star because the ending was a bit unbelievable. Still, I read it all in one sitting because it kept me hooked.

[Mrs Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a grim tale!! Poisoning, a crash and a chainsaw accident.....BUT are they? Harry and his team set about finding out what has happened in each incident , and why the victims have been targeted!
Their inquiries finally lead them to an unlikely set of culprits who have no regrets for their actions!
As well as the 'police' business, things are happening amongst thr team, doubts between Ben and Liz's prolonged engagement, and the surprising news of pending patters of tiny paws as Harry's dog smudge is waiting for the arrival of pups !
Another great book 📖 👌 from david gatward definitely a 5🌟 read.... roll on book 22

[Roxanne Rampage · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 Stars for me. I've read all of these, but sadly I found this one lacking.

Firstly, the thing with the Uncle & cousin. Did I miss something? I didn't find out what actually went on there and why. Maybe my kindle skipped a few pages? It seemed to have no reasoning or conclusion so I didn't really know what that added.

Secondly, the blackmail issue was weak and a bit far fetched. All of the victims could have easily died.

Thirdly the mysterious 'letter' that Harry throws on the fire. Who burns a receipt for something that hasn't been collected yet?

I enjoy the team and the comradery, but sorry, I found this one quite poor.

[SkyGrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous!!

I put this book off as long as I could. I miss Harry and the team while I wait for the next to hit the Kindle so it gives me a little less time for the next lol.

This was such a fabulous and intriguing read. It had my mind spinning in so many different directions. I had a suspicion at first but then it didn’t fit with the other “accidents” and I put it out of mind. It was Holy Wow at the end!

Honestly, I don’t know how David came up with this plot. He is just amazing! Keep up the thrilling and twisted reads! I’m a fan for life.

I’m off to visit DI Haig in her second book….loving that new series too! xxx

[angela holdcroft · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful read. When 3 apparent accidents seem connected, DCI Harry Grimm and his team investigate. Blackmail is afoot, and with a brilliantly comical twist, the culprits are apprehended.
Thrown into the mix are Harry's mystery family ties, which leave you intrigued and wanting to know more.
Full of good humour, and so well written that you feel you are there. The author brings the pages alive with his descriptive writing. I feel like I'm a part of this fabulous team fighting crime in the glorious Yorkshire Dales, I can even taste the cake & cheese! Another great instalment in the DCI Harry Grimm series.

[Christine Rennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bad Deeds by David Gatward is book 21 in the DCI Harry Grimm crime series and the series just gets better and better.
When members of the community who are widely respected for their professionalism are involved in incidents Harry and his team get involved. They discover that the people are being blackmailed into doing risky acts that ends up with three of them being hospitalised.
Wedding plans are being discussed and family matters seem to be percolating in the Grimm family tree.
Highly recommended

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Mike, respected local mechanic, is involved in a car accident that indicates his vehicle was not in good shape and that he was driving too fast, friends are more than simply surprised, they are confused. As it turns out, a couple of other recent "accidents" become more curious because the behavior is so contrary to their normal behaviors and habits. While the plot is intriguing, it doesn't quite gel; however, there is a sinister element to the plot that resonates. Grim and his team are so genuine and believable that I always appreciate whatever case that involves them.

[Sharon Breuer]

not up to the usual standard

I'm a huge fans of the Grimm chronicles , so much so was in Hawes this week visiting from Northern California to see the world painted in David*s books. This book was the first of the series I found hard to to accept the plot premise. (Stop if you haven't read Bad Deeds yet) the "Bad Deeds" of the victims would not be enough motivation to do the things they did to try and kill or mutilate themselves. plus the blackmailers had no way to know their sabotage would not end in death. still love the books but everyone strikes out once in a while.

[Michelle Nash · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 but rounded up.

Happy to be back up north with Grimm and the gang. Exciting news in the personal lives of some of our main characters and regular reoccurring characters.

This was a crazy case and a bit convoluted although the crimes and their execution was great/creative, the reasoning was meh.

The situation with the uncle and the cousin...what was the point of that. That should have been more than one book's worth of a storyline. It was just tossed in there for what? More pages? Had the markings of great and fun tangential storyline.

[Jocelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of Surprises

Fast paced, intriguing and sometimes baffling. I love the characters and feel invested in them, even knowing they are fictional. Hayward does great character development and slowly brings out the back stories. This book kept me guessing to the very end and I still didn't have it completely correct. I love when I can't solve the mystery until close to the end, or not at all. The Harry Grimm series gives me that thrill almost every time.

[Karen Oakley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. DCI Grimm at his best. The blast from his past concerning an uncle he had never met was a good side story. I did find the whole 'Bad Deeds' storyline a little far fetched in its reasoning. The perpetrators had no way of knowing if their actions wouldn't have led to a death as each blackmail was macabre to say the least. It kept me interested though but I hope the next Grimm book deals with a more reasonable murder mystery.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story

Another fun mystery far Harry and the crew to unravel. This particular book has several story threads running through it, some of which get resolved and some that remain open for the future. Which is good news because that means there will be more interesting stories to come.

[Julian Tremayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story really tests Harry's imagination and takes a while for resolution. I particularly like, as always, the references to the real places in the Dales, Hawes, Leyburn and the like. This is a good incentive to visit the place, which we are doing in the next four weeks for a weekend away. Will be sure to look up Cocketts, among other establishments!
Julian Tremayne, Cromer, Norfolk

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read in the DCI Harry Grimm series. A bit going on both personally and professionally, so a very interesting read. I love the characters, and the dogs too, and they add so much to the story. The description throughout the book about the setting of the Dales is wonderful and makes me want to visit. I can't wait for the next book in the series

[Kristina Trawick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a 5 for the Grimm books

This is another hit by Gatward. There is something going on in the area that no one can explain. Experts in their fields trying to kill themselves, doing things out of the ordinary and confounding all. Great twist at the end! Love these books, but I burn through them too quickly, meaning another dry period of no Harry. Sigh.

[Delyth Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

Yet another well crafted story. An intriguing storyline. Kept me thinking all through the book. I feel that the main characters in all the Grimm books are like old friends. I would love to meet up with them for a pint. Can't wait for the next instalment. Keep them coming.

[Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book is a treasure in it’s own right!

Gatward can’t write these books fast enough. DCI Grimm is one of my all time favorite detectives. An old fashion, hardcore DCI, him and his little team keep Yorkshire in line.
Weird accidents, stolen wildlife bird eggs, and Grimm being himself, makes for another winner!

[Sandra Leivesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book in this superb series as Harry Grimm investigates a blackmailer who is forcing people to harm themselves. Set in the glorious Yorkshire Dales this series goes from strength to strength.

Wonderfully narrated by the excellent Aubrey Parsons - so glad you are feeling better Aubrey!

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a disturbing storyline but I am sure it has happened. Introduction of a new character who worked in Swansea (my home!!) Bit vague on the storyline with Harry's uncle and cousin, but I am sure it will become clearer. Managed to read this in one sitting (on holiday). Still determined at some time to visit Hawes etc.

[Marcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bad Deeds in the Dales

David Gatward seems to have an unending supply of devious and ingenious crime tales up his sleeve with which to intrigue readers. It is shocking that the peaceful and beautiful Yorkshire countryside which he lovingly describes, nevertheless harbours deviant persons spreading misery throughout the land.

[Margaret Ridings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed getting reacquainted

Satisfyingly good read. Always enjoy becoming reacquainted with Harry and his team. Setting is lovely in the dales which makes the novel even more interesting. Looking forward to Harry's next adventure.

[David Stimpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Series

Harry Grimm and His Team are Just a Wonderful read .Great Mysteries. Fantastic Setting . Wonderful Food . There Has Never Been a Dip in Quality in All 21 Books. I cannot wait for the next one