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Detective Jan Talantire #3
The Dark Edge: Detective Jan Talantire, Book 3
The higher you climb, the further you fall.
On her way home after an overnight shift, DI Jan Talantire hears the control room relaying an emergency. Someone has fallen to their death from one of the highest cliffs in Devon. Jan is nearby so she agrees to hold the fort until uniformed cops arrive.
At the scene, a small knot of people have gathered, all of whom have some connection to the victim, Joanne Dexter. Could one of them have been involved in her death?
When the Commissioner personally asks Jan to take charge of the case, she is taken aback–such a small incident would usually be beneath a DI. But she soon realises there’s far more to this case than first meets the eye. This fall was no accident.
Joanne’s work forced her into close contact with some dangerous people. Could she have gotten on their bad side? Or was her killer someone closer to home?
A binge-worthy British crime thriller from the million-copy bestseller. Perfect for fans of Elly Griffiths, Kate Ellis and Sally Rigby.
On her way home after an overnight shift, DI Jan Talantire hears the control room relaying an emergency. Someone has fallen to their death from one of the highest cliffs in Devon. Jan is nearby so she agrees to hold the fort until uniformed cops arrive.
At the scene, a small knot of people have gathered, all of whom have some connection to the victim, Joanne Dexter. Could one of them have been involved in her death?
When the Commissioner personally asks Jan to take charge of the case, she is taken aback–such a small incident would usually be beneath a DI. But she soon realises there’s far more to this case than first meets the eye. This fall was no accident.
Joanne’s work forced her into close contact with some dangerous people. Could she have gotten on their bad side? Or was her killer someone closer to home?
A binge-worthy British crime thriller from the million-copy bestseller. Perfect for fans of Elly Griffiths, Kate Ellis and Sally Rigby.
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Published May 8, 2025
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About the author
Nick Louth
40 books292 followersNick Louth is a freelance journalist and author, based in Lincolnshire UK.
Before beginning writing fiction, he was a foreign correspondent for Reuters news agency, and a regular contributor to the Financial Times, MSN, and many financial magazines.
Before beginning writing fiction, he was a foreign correspondent for Reuters news agency, and a regular contributor to the Financial Times, MSN, and many financial magazines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 26, 2025
* 3.5 star Comfort Food *
This is the third instalment of Nick Louth’s Jan Talantire series, and the first book I’ve read by the author. I found it to be an easy read, not boring, not groundbreaking. A classic police procedural.
The main mystery involves the death of Joanne Dexter, who fell off a cliff while running in stormy weather. Was it an accident or was she pushed? As Jan collects more evidence, she begins to lean towards the “no accident” theory. There are several red herrings, including the fact that Joanne worked for GCHQ, a UK intelligence agency, and one of their projects had recently been disrupted. Was Joanne killed as part of a spy confrontation or was it more personal?
As we follow Jan’s POV almost exclusively, we watch her unravel the clues. About the 60% point, she (and we) “know” who is most likely responsible, but why it was done isn’t divulged until the around the 80% mark, and how it was done is a mystery until near the end.
There is a secondary plot in this story, revolving around a sexual harassment complaint that Jan has filed against a Senior Commander named Brent West that obviously started in an earlier book in the series and is continuing to play out here. Also, several members of her team are mentioned, although the only ones who stood out for me were PC Bronwen Owen, who appears to be her right-hand assistant, and PC Primrose Chen, a shy new technician.
The only thing that even mildly disturbed me in the story was the fact that Jan seemed more like a man in her approach to sexual activities. Yes, she’s 35 and we would expect her to have sexual liaisons, but I felt that her approach was more in keeping with the male point of view.
Otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I spent some time pondering whether to move my 3.5 rating up or down. It’s not a cozy, but it doesn’t break new ground either. I do plan to read another one in the series—#2 went on sale in Canada for 99 cents and I just bought it. Finally, I decided to give it four stars based strictly on my personal enjoyment. It’s nice “comfort food” for a police procedural junkie like me.
Thanks to Canelo for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
This is the third instalment of Nick Louth’s Jan Talantire series, and the first book I’ve read by the author. I found it to be an easy read, not boring, not groundbreaking. A classic police procedural.
The main mystery involves the death of Joanne Dexter, who fell off a cliff while running in stormy weather. Was it an accident or was she pushed? As Jan collects more evidence, she begins to lean towards the “no accident” theory. There are several red herrings, including the fact that Joanne worked for GCHQ, a UK intelligence agency, and one of their projects had recently been disrupted. Was Joanne killed as part of a spy confrontation or was it more personal?
As we follow Jan’s POV almost exclusively, we watch her unravel the clues. About the 60% point, she (and we) “know” who is most likely responsible, but why it was done isn’t divulged until the around the 80% mark, and how it was done is a mystery until near the end.
There is a secondary plot in this story, revolving around a sexual harassment complaint that Jan has filed against a Senior Commander named Brent West that obviously started in an earlier book in the series and is continuing to play out here. Also, several members of her team are mentioned, although the only ones who stood out for me were PC Bronwen Owen, who appears to be her right-hand assistant, and PC Primrose Chen, a shy new technician.
The only thing that even mildly disturbed me in the story was the fact that Jan seemed more like a man in her approach to sexual activities. Yes, she’s 35 and we would expect her to have sexual liaisons, but I felt that her approach was more in keeping with the male point of view.
Otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and I spent some time pondering whether to move my 3.5 rating up or down. It’s not a cozy, but it doesn’t break new ground either. I do plan to read another one in the series—#2 went on sale in Canada for 99 cents and I just bought it. Finally, I decided to give it four stars based strictly on my personal enjoyment. It’s nice “comfort food” for a police procedural junkie like me.
Thanks to Canelo for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
March 31, 2025
This is the third book in the ingeniously inventive DI Jan Talantire series, set in Devon, about a tenacious detective and her loyal team. I beta read this for the author then reread the final version, and was once more amazed by his ability to come up with head-scratching whydunnits while also addressing topical societal issues - in this case sexism & predatory misogyny within the police.
Jan is called to the scene of fatality where a jogger has fallen off a cliff in a storm while retrieving her elderly mother’s hat - but if it was an accident, why are all the witnesses lying to her? Meanwhile her complaint against her former lover and senior officer gets complicated when he turns the tables on her.
I had read and enjoyed all twelve of the author’s previous series, and am always slightly conflicted when they stop writing about characters you’ve come to like to start a new one, but I’m actually liking Jan Talantire more and more with every book. This was a brilliant mystery with various subplots and red herrings to leave me wondering what on earth was going on. I don’t know Devon at all but there’s just enough description to make me want to visit it someday.
Jan is called to the scene of fatality where a jogger has fallen off a cliff in a storm while retrieving her elderly mother’s hat - but if it was an accident, why are all the witnesses lying to her? Meanwhile her complaint against her former lover and senior officer gets complicated when he turns the tables on her.
I had read and enjoyed all twelve of the author’s previous series, and am always slightly conflicted when they stop writing about characters you’ve come to like to start a new one, but I’m actually liking Jan Talantire more and more with every book. This was a brilliant mystery with various subplots and red herrings to leave me wondering what on earth was going on. I don’t know Devon at all but there’s just enough description to make me want to visit it someday.
July 19, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this one .
April 21, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for an advance reader copy. If you want a synopsis, click on the book.
This is a police procedure novel with lots of twists. It differs from others in that the main character has to deal with police force misogyny while solving crime. It's nice to see how this character is developing. Overall, a good read with a satisfying ending.
This is a police procedure novel with lots of twists. It differs from others in that the main character has to deal with police force misogyny while solving crime. It's nice to see how this character is developing. Overall, a good read with a satisfying ending.
November 22, 2025
Thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this eARC.
The Dark Edge by Nick Louth is a taut, atmospheric police procedural that blends psychological tension with a sharp eye for human motives. It’s a novel that thrives on ambiguity, pulling the reader into a case that seems deceptively simple but grows darker and more complex with every chapter.
Nick Louth’s The Dark Edge (Detective Jan Talantire #3) begins with what appears to be a tragic accident: a woman, Joanne Dexter, has fallen from one of Devon’s highest cliffs. DI Jan Talantire, already weary from an overnight shift, is asked to hold the scene until uniformed officers arrive. What unfolds from this moment is not a routine investigation but a layered mystery that forces Jan to confront the unsettling truth that this fall was no accident.
Jan Talantire is portrayed with a mix of resilience and vulnerability. Her fatigue at the start of the book mirrors the reader’s sense of unease, grounding the investigation in realism. She is not a superhero detective but a professional navigating institutional pressures and personal doubts.
The Devon cliffs are more than a backdrop; they embody danger, isolation, and the precariousness of human choices. Louth uses setting as a psychological mirror, heightening suspense.
The small group of witnesses—each with ties to the victim—creates a claustrophobic dynamic. The novel thrives on suspicion, forcing the reader to question every motive and every silence.
Beyond the whodunit, the book explores how professional lives intersect with personal vulnerabilities. Joanne’s work, hinted to involve dangerous connections, suggests that ambition and exposure can carry hidden costs.
Louth writes with clarity and precision, avoiding unnecessary flourishes. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the mystery to unfold in layers rather than rushing toward resolution. This makes the eventual revelations more impactful, as the reader has been primed to expect complexity rather than simplicity.
The Dark Edge succeeds as a crime novel and a psychological study. It’s not just about solving a death but it's also about understanding how ordinary people can be drawn into extraordinary danger. The book rewards readers who enjoy police procedurals with strong female leads, minimal romantic distraction, and a focus on ethical and professional dilemmas.
If you’re drawn to Nordic noir or international procedurals with a grounded, emotionally intelligent protagonist, this novel fits neatly into that tradition while offering its own distinctive voice.
The Dark Edge by Nick Louth is a taut, atmospheric police procedural that blends psychological tension with a sharp eye for human motives. It’s a novel that thrives on ambiguity, pulling the reader into a case that seems deceptively simple but grows darker and more complex with every chapter.
Nick Louth’s The Dark Edge (Detective Jan Talantire #3) begins with what appears to be a tragic accident: a woman, Joanne Dexter, has fallen from one of Devon’s highest cliffs. DI Jan Talantire, already weary from an overnight shift, is asked to hold the scene until uniformed officers arrive. What unfolds from this moment is not a routine investigation but a layered mystery that forces Jan to confront the unsettling truth that this fall was no accident.
Jan Talantire is portrayed with a mix of resilience and vulnerability. Her fatigue at the start of the book mirrors the reader’s sense of unease, grounding the investigation in realism. She is not a superhero detective but a professional navigating institutional pressures and personal doubts.
The Devon cliffs are more than a backdrop; they embody danger, isolation, and the precariousness of human choices. Louth uses setting as a psychological mirror, heightening suspense.
The small group of witnesses—each with ties to the victim—creates a claustrophobic dynamic. The novel thrives on suspicion, forcing the reader to question every motive and every silence.
Beyond the whodunit, the book explores how professional lives intersect with personal vulnerabilities. Joanne’s work, hinted to involve dangerous connections, suggests that ambition and exposure can carry hidden costs.
Louth writes with clarity and precision, avoiding unnecessary flourishes. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the mystery to unfold in layers rather than rushing toward resolution. This makes the eventual revelations more impactful, as the reader has been primed to expect complexity rather than simplicity.
The Dark Edge succeeds as a crime novel and a psychological study. It’s not just about solving a death but it's also about understanding how ordinary people can be drawn into extraordinary danger. The book rewards readers who enjoy police procedurals with strong female leads, minimal romantic distraction, and a focus on ethical and professional dilemmas.
If you’re drawn to Nordic noir or international procedurals with a grounded, emotionally intelligent protagonist, this novel fits neatly into that tradition while offering its own distinctive voice.
April 24, 2025
In The Dark Edge, Nick Louth returns with another gripping installment in the DI Jan Talantire series, immersing readers in the haunting beauty of the Devon coastline—where beneath the idyllic charm, darkness festers.
The story opens with an eerie calm. Detective Inspector Jan Talantire, just off an overnight shift, finds herself first on the scene of a death at one of Devon’s highest cliffs. At first glance, it appears to be a tragic accident. But as Jan begins to piece together the facts—and confront the tight cluster of individuals connected to the victim, Joanne Dexter—it becomes clear that this death wasn’t just a misstep on the edge. It was a calculated act.
Louth masterfully builds tension, taking what seems like a routine fall and unraveling a complex web of secrets and deceit. As Jan investigates, she uncovers unsettling ties between Joanne’s professional life and dangerous figures from her past. What sets this thriller apart is Louth’s knack for infusing every character with depth and motive—everyone is a suspect, and no one is entirely innocent.
The novel is steeped in atmosphere. Louth paints the Devon and Cornwall coast not just as a setting, but as a character in its own right—beautiful, brutal, and concealing. The quiet villages and sweeping cliffs mask a darker reality that DI Talantire knows all too well.
Jan herself is a compelling lead: sharp, intuitive, and doggedly determined. Her unease at being handed the case by the Commissioner—something far below her usual brief—adds an additional layer of intrigue. Why this case? Why now? These questions drive both Jan and the reader deeper into the mystery.
With short, punchy chapters and plenty of twists, The Dark Edge is a propulsive read that fans of British crime fiction will devour. Louth has delivered another chilling tale of secrets hiding in plain sight—and the people who will kill to keep them buried.
The story opens with an eerie calm. Detective Inspector Jan Talantire, just off an overnight shift, finds herself first on the scene of a death at one of Devon’s highest cliffs. At first glance, it appears to be a tragic accident. But as Jan begins to piece together the facts—and confront the tight cluster of individuals connected to the victim, Joanne Dexter—it becomes clear that this death wasn’t just a misstep on the edge. It was a calculated act.
Louth masterfully builds tension, taking what seems like a routine fall and unraveling a complex web of secrets and deceit. As Jan investigates, she uncovers unsettling ties between Joanne’s professional life and dangerous figures from her past. What sets this thriller apart is Louth’s knack for infusing every character with depth and motive—everyone is a suspect, and no one is entirely innocent.
The novel is steeped in atmosphere. Louth paints the Devon and Cornwall coast not just as a setting, but as a character in its own right—beautiful, brutal, and concealing. The quiet villages and sweeping cliffs mask a darker reality that DI Talantire knows all too well.
Jan herself is a compelling lead: sharp, intuitive, and doggedly determined. Her unease at being handed the case by the Commissioner—something far below her usual brief—adds an additional layer of intrigue. Why this case? Why now? These questions drive both Jan and the reader deeper into the mystery.
With short, punchy chapters and plenty of twists, The Dark Edge is a propulsive read that fans of British crime fiction will devour. Louth has delivered another chilling tale of secrets hiding in plain sight—and the people who will kill to keep them buried.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2025
The Dark Edge by Nick Louth is a highly recommended police procedural and the third book in the DI Jan Talantire series set in Devon.
DI Jan Talantire is investigating the death of Joanne Dexter after she apparently fell off a cliff trying to retrieve her elderly mother's hat. At first it appears to be an accident, but as more evidence is collected it becomes clear that it may have been murder and some of the witnesses are lying. Complicating matters is the fact that Joanne work for a UK intelligence agency and Talantire doesn't have the security clearance needed to hear all information. At the same time the sexual harassment case is ongoing.
This is an intricate, complicated investigation with plenty of twists and surprising discoveries along the way. I found the case Talantire was on in the previous book was more interesting, but this is still a well-written and expertly plotted addition to the series. Expect several subplots and misleading clues while the team sorts through all the clues and conduct interviews.
As the third book in the series, Talantire's character development is ongoing. She is portrayed as a tough, intelligent and compelling character with strengths and flaws, however, it also feels like her character is written from a male perspective. There are also a plethora of other characters to keep track of while reading, including members of her team and various suspects and witnesses.
The Dark Edge will best be appreciated by readers who enjoy procedurals and who have read the two previous books in the series. Thanks to Canelo Crime for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/0...
DI Jan Talantire is investigating the death of Joanne Dexter after she apparently fell off a cliff trying to retrieve her elderly mother's hat. At first it appears to be an accident, but as more evidence is collected it becomes clear that it may have been murder and some of the witnesses are lying. Complicating matters is the fact that Joanne work for a UK intelligence agency and Talantire doesn't have the security clearance needed to hear all information. At the same time the sexual harassment case is ongoing.
This is an intricate, complicated investigation with plenty of twists and surprising discoveries along the way. I found the case Talantire was on in the previous book was more interesting, but this is still a well-written and expertly plotted addition to the series. Expect several subplots and misleading clues while the team sorts through all the clues and conduct interviews.
As the third book in the series, Talantire's character development is ongoing. She is portrayed as a tough, intelligent and compelling character with strengths and flaws, however, it also feels like her character is written from a male perspective. There are also a plethora of other characters to keep track of while reading, including members of her team and various suspects and witnesses.
The Dark Edge will best be appreciated by readers who enjoy procedurals and who have read the two previous books in the series. Thanks to Canelo Crime for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/0...
April 28, 2025
The third of the series about D.I. Jan Talantire, written by Nick Louth, is “The Dark Edge”. Nick Louth is a fabulous author. I have read all his books, and “The Dark Edge” is a five-star read for me.
The story is about the death of Joanne Dexter, who died when she fell off a cliff during a fitness run. The initial thought was that it was an accident, but Jan Talantire suspected foul play because some of the witnesses lied to her. Eventually, the Special Branch became involved because Ms. Dexter was a member of an intelligence agency.
The story had lots of complicated clues, involving spies, theft, Alzheimer’s, other murders and inheritance issues. Side stories were included about sexism, misogyny, and Jan’s sexual exploits, and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to find out if Jan can defeat Adam West, the senior police officer who threatened her.
Jan must be tough to work for male colleagues, and fortunately, she is intelligent, hard-working, happy to get even after abuse and threats, and has an excellent team around her.
I had to keep reading to find the result of the team’s investigations, and the solution of why the deaths were committed was right at the end. What a wonderful mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves police mysteries.
The story is about the death of Joanne Dexter, who died when she fell off a cliff during a fitness run. The initial thought was that it was an accident, but Jan Talantire suspected foul play because some of the witnesses lied to her. Eventually, the Special Branch became involved because Ms. Dexter was a member of an intelligence agency.
The story had lots of complicated clues, involving spies, theft, Alzheimer’s, other murders and inheritance issues. Side stories were included about sexism, misogyny, and Jan’s sexual exploits, and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series to find out if Jan can defeat Adam West, the senior police officer who threatened her.
Jan must be tough to work for male colleagues, and fortunately, she is intelligent, hard-working, happy to get even after abuse and threats, and has an excellent team around her.
I had to keep reading to find the result of the team’s investigations, and the solution of why the deaths were committed was right at the end. What a wonderful mystery.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves police mysteries.
March 22, 2025
After reading The Dark Edge by Nick Louth, I cannot wait for the next edition of the DI Jan Talantire series! This book was impossible to put down for me. I needed to know what happened next, at every step.
There were a few plot lines and investigations that went on that all felt so real and so possible that I kept saying to myself, “Well, that tracks”. From the allegations of workplace sexual harassment to the meddlesome Special Branch presence once something even tangentially looked like it might have something to potentially implicate national security…whether or not it even ended up actually being anything. Even the online dating experience that Talantire experienced felt so relevant that it made me giggle and also cringe at the different aspects of it.
I just adored being part of that world set along the Devon coast. When DI Talantire was called to respond to a potential suicide, it started the main plot line that was just so engrossing and real. I loved it.
Even the last line of the epilogue was cheeky and so on-brand with DI Talantire. It is what makes me just so excited to have found a new series to devour.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Canelo for this fabulous ARC!!
There were a few plot lines and investigations that went on that all felt so real and so possible that I kept saying to myself, “Well, that tracks”. From the allegations of workplace sexual harassment to the meddlesome Special Branch presence once something even tangentially looked like it might have something to potentially implicate national security…whether or not it even ended up actually being anything. Even the online dating experience that Talantire experienced felt so relevant that it made me giggle and also cringe at the different aspects of it.
I just adored being part of that world set along the Devon coast. When DI Talantire was called to respond to a potential suicide, it started the main plot line that was just so engrossing and real. I loved it.
Even the last line of the epilogue was cheeky and so on-brand with DI Talantire. It is what makes me just so excited to have found a new series to devour.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Canelo for this fabulous ARC!!
April 8, 2025
The Dark Edge is the third in the DI Jan Talantire series and boy, is it aptly named. Not just for the possible crime, a woman falling over a cliff edge, but for the dark edge of police politics and of human nature.
I find Jan a fabulous main character. She is my kind of gal. “And yes. It was her philosophy: if you get hit, then hit back harder. Never take anything lying down. Don’t cry, don’t whine, and never curl up in a ball and weep. Don’t be pathetic. Get even.”
The book does a good job of balancing the investigation and Jan’s personal life. On the personal side, she has put a complaint through about sexual harassment from a senior officer. In typical fashion, senior management is more worried about protecting the male officer than protecting the women he’s threatened and abused.
The story is rife with multiple red herrings. It kept me guessing and even after I knew the who, it was the how will it be proved that continued to hold my interest.
I wouldn’t recommend reading this as a stand-alone.
I’m becoming a big Nick Louth fan. This is the second well done police procedural series he’s written. They are intelligent, well thought out and evenly paced.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for an advance copy of this book.
I find Jan a fabulous main character. She is my kind of gal. “And yes. It was her philosophy: if you get hit, then hit back harder. Never take anything lying down. Don’t cry, don’t whine, and never curl up in a ball and weep. Don’t be pathetic. Get even.”
The book does a good job of balancing the investigation and Jan’s personal life. On the personal side, she has put a complaint through about sexual harassment from a senior officer. In typical fashion, senior management is more worried about protecting the male officer than protecting the women he’s threatened and abused.
The story is rife with multiple red herrings. It kept me guessing and even after I knew the who, it was the how will it be proved that continued to hold my interest.
I wouldn’t recommend reading this as a stand-alone.
I’m becoming a big Nick Louth fan. This is the second well done police procedural series he’s written. They are intelligent, well thought out and evenly paced.
My thanks to Netgalley and Canelo for an advance copy of this book.
April 21, 2025
When she hears that someone has fallen to their death from a cliff, DI Jan Talantire is shocked to find that the woman, Joanne Dexter, is someone she had recently met. When she is asked to lead the case, she is confused: surely this is an open and shut case of accidental death? It soon becomes apparent that there is more to the fall than meets the eye after details of Joanne’s life become clear. Is her death due to her work or does someone closer to home know the truth?
This is the third in the Jan Talantire series and we are really starting to get a feel for the character. After loving the author’s previous books featuring DCI Craig Gillard, it is good to be totally invested in this new character with Jan proving to be a brilliant protagonist. There are some parts of the plot that refer to events in the previous book but it is not essential to have read this to enjoy The Dark Edge.
As always, Nick Louth has constructed a complex plot with a plethora of fascinating characters, each one seemingly with their own potential motive for wanting Joanne out of the way. There are red herrings aplenty with subplots all coming together to culminate in a satisfying ending where all loose ends are tied up.
In addition to the main plot, there is the ongoing sexual harassment storyline where we are beginning to see the tenacious, ‘never say die’ attitude of Jan when faced with misogyny in the workplace. This story is far from concluded and I look forward to reading what happens next.
This is the third in the Jan Talantire series and we are really starting to get a feel for the character. After loving the author’s previous books featuring DCI Craig Gillard, it is good to be totally invested in this new character with Jan proving to be a brilliant protagonist. There are some parts of the plot that refer to events in the previous book but it is not essential to have read this to enjoy The Dark Edge.
As always, Nick Louth has constructed a complex plot with a plethora of fascinating characters, each one seemingly with their own potential motive for wanting Joanne out of the way. There are red herrings aplenty with subplots all coming together to culminate in a satisfying ending where all loose ends are tied up.
In addition to the main plot, there is the ongoing sexual harassment storyline where we are beginning to see the tenacious, ‘never say die’ attitude of Jan when faced with misogyny in the workplace. This story is far from concluded and I look forward to reading what happens next.
July 2, 2025
‘The Dark Edge’ is the third book in the DI Jan Talantire series by author Nick Louth. This is a gripping and atmospheric police procedural featuring DI Jan Talantire.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Devon’s towering cliffs, the story opens with Joanne Dexter plunging to her death from one of the region’s highest cliffs. Everything points to a tragic accident but it very quickly turns to something far more sinister. A tired DI Jan Talantire is nearby when the death is reported having just finished a long night shift. She is first on the scene and is asked by the Commissioner to lead the case. DI Jan Talantire soon discovers that Joanne wasn’t just a victim but had secrets, dangerous links enemies in places both professional and personal.
I really enjoyed this novel and tried to work out which one of all the plausible suspects actually comited the murder. Well paced and with very good characters and especially like the lead DI Jan Talantire who is a strong, sensible DI who is not afraid to challenge authority or her own instincts.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of Devon’s towering cliffs, the story opens with Joanne Dexter plunging to her death from one of the region’s highest cliffs. Everything points to a tragic accident but it very quickly turns to something far more sinister. A tired DI Jan Talantire is nearby when the death is reported having just finished a long night shift. She is first on the scene and is asked by the Commissioner to lead the case. DI Jan Talantire soon discovers that Joanne wasn’t just a victim but had secrets, dangerous links enemies in places both professional and personal.
I really enjoyed this novel and tried to work out which one of all the plausible suspects actually comited the murder. Well paced and with very good characters and especially like the lead DI Jan Talantire who is a strong, sensible DI who is not afraid to challenge authority or her own instincts.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Canelo for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2025
The Dark Edge is the third instalment in this police procedural series, set in Devon. When a runner falls off a cliff to her death, the big question is, was the fall accidental or was she pushed? There is no obvious evidence that she was pushed, but DI Jan Talantire's detective intuition tells her that this was no accident.
Some of the twists were superb and really took me by surprise. I am really enjoying getting to know Jan better as this series progresses. She is a tough nut to crack in some ways, but will always do the right thing and her determination is admirable.
I didn't find the storyline of this case quite as gripping as the first two, but the ongoing investigation that involves Jan personally made up for that in spades and is impacting her and her team more and more. I can't wait for justice to be served, hopefully on a big, fancy platter!
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Nick Louth and Canelo for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Some of the twists were superb and really took me by surprise. I am really enjoying getting to know Jan better as this series progresses. She is a tough nut to crack in some ways, but will always do the right thing and her determination is admirable.
I didn't find the storyline of this case quite as gripping as the first two, but the ongoing investigation that involves Jan personally made up for that in spades and is impacting her and her team more and more. I can't wait for justice to be served, hopefully on a big, fancy platter!
4 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Nick Louth and Canelo for an ARC in return for an honest review.
April 15, 2025
We're heading back to Devon and Cornwall, where DI Jan Talantire is based with a small team! Jan is expected to cover the wide area and to solve crimes with limited resources. A body of a woman is found and Jan is sent to the scene to investigate. Near to the victim, Joanne Dexter, are a group of people that knew her in life. Who did the deed? Why? How was the crime the committed. Jan and her team investigate behind the reason (s) for the crime, which leads her to discover the hidden past and secrets. We soon learn that Joanne worked for the intelligence agency and Jan has to decipher if this was the reason for the crime. Jan is a strong character and not afraid to take on the police establishment where her character is called into question in a harassment case. All the subplots are full of twists and turns and lead to a dramatic ending.
March 21, 2025
DI Jan Talantire is investigating a death of a woman that joined Jan on a run. Joanna apparently fell off a cliff to her death.
Jan's gut instinct tells her differently. She is convinced that the woman was murdered.
This is the first book I have read by Nick Louth. Unfortunately, it is the third book in a series, and I had no idea of the background of the detective and her team.
So, I was floundering with all of the characters.
However, the plot is intricate, and the police work solid....even though Jan is counting on her gut instinct to prove that this is a murder case and not an accident.
I would like to catch up on the lives of the characters by reading the previous two books.
Well written and well plotted.
Jan's gut instinct tells her differently. She is convinced that the woman was murdered.
This is the first book I have read by Nick Louth. Unfortunately, it is the third book in a series, and I had no idea of the background of the detective and her team.
So, I was floundering with all of the characters.
However, the plot is intricate, and the police work solid....even though Jan is counting on her gut instinct to prove that this is a murder case and not an accident.
I would like to catch up on the lives of the characters by reading the previous two books.
Well written and well plotted.
March 29, 2025
A brilliantly gripping police procedural - detective Jan Talantire is drawn into an investigation after a woman falls to her death on her morning run. The victim turns out to be a ‘spook’ and Jan is trying to ascertain if her death is related to her job or her family life given that she was found dead after she took her elderly mother out from her nursing home that same morning. Brilliantly plotted storyline which also delves into Jan’s personal life and a harassment case involving a high ranking officer. This is my first of the Jan Talantire books but I’ll certainly be going back to read the preceding stories now! Highly recommended. Thanks to the publisher and author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 2, 2025
There was a lot going on in this book, so at times it got a bit confusing. The main plot was interesting with a runner dying after falling off the cliff edge, which obviously became a lot more than a fall. I feel like I needed to have read the rest of the series to understand the dynamic between Jan Talantire and the rest of her team, the Police Commissioner etc and also to know more about Brent West and Adam. I didn't understand why they were dealing so much with rural crimes alongside a potential murder case, but maybe because the station was small and seemed to only have a few staff. The actual case was interesting with lots of twists and a few side-lines to keep it moving.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC.
November 10, 2025
DI Jan Talantire’s complaint against DS Brent West has progressed through the system, and she’s due to speak at a hearing about it. Another of the complainants, Nade Lister, contacts Jan, and says they should work together, as both have registered complaints about the man, though Janine’s describe multiple rapes committed by West. Jan knows they’ll both lose credibility if they’re thought to be colluding against such a well respected member of the force, so she shuts down Nadine decisively.
At the same time, Jan has various theft cases to deal with, and a perplexing death to investigate. It looks like an accident, but something keeps pulling Jan to a darker explanation. The dead woman works for GCHQ, and there is a possibility that her death pertained to her work. Or it may involve issues with her former husband. Or is something else going on? Either way, Jan feels that this was no accident, and persists in investigating, despite her superior urging her to deal with the thefts as a priority.
This was gripping and incredibly frustrating in that the review board’s response to sexual harassment and rape claims against a superior officer did not seem to matter, and the two women with complaints actually were harmed professionally for filing them.
The murder case had lots of twists before finally revealing the culprit, and motive, which was banal and self-interested, in the way justifications for murder usually are.
On to book 4.
At the same time, Jan has various theft cases to deal with, and a perplexing death to investigate. It looks like an accident, but something keeps pulling Jan to a darker explanation. The dead woman works for GCHQ, and there is a possibility that her death pertained to her work. Or it may involve issues with her former husband. Or is something else going on? Either way, Jan feels that this was no accident, and persists in investigating, despite her superior urging her to deal with the thefts as a priority.
This was gripping and incredibly frustrating in that the review board’s response to sexual harassment and rape claims against a superior officer did not seem to matter, and the two women with complaints actually were harmed professionally for filing them.
The murder case had lots of twists before finally revealing the culprit, and motive, which was banal and self-interested, in the way justifications for murder usually are.
On to book 4.
April 17, 2025
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of The Dark Edge by Nick Louth, published by Canelo.
This was a really great book, and great mystery. I didn't realize it was part of a series, so can be read as a stand alone, i didn'tfeel i was missing previous character information. I loved the characters and how the characters were introduced throughout the novel. They were described well and very realistic interactions. So many stories woven together and kept you guessing as to who dunnit. Great plot, the story flowed well, there were no lulls that made me want to put the book down, to the contrary I wanted to keep reading.
I've not read this author before, but will be putting his novels on my TBR
This was a really great book, and great mystery. I didn't realize it was part of a series, so can be read as a stand alone, i didn'tfeel i was missing previous character information. I loved the characters and how the characters were introduced throughout the novel. They were described well and very realistic interactions. So many stories woven together and kept you guessing as to who dunnit. Great plot, the story flowed well, there were no lulls that made me want to put the book down, to the contrary I wanted to keep reading.
I've not read this author before, but will be putting his novels on my TBR
May 1, 2025
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review of The Dark Edge. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this opportunity.
While this book didn’t fully capture my imagination, I can see how others might find its story engaging. The journey of Jan is intriguing, and there are moments where the narrative hints at a future worth exploring. Though I personally won’t be continuing the series, I appreciate the author's dedication to world-building and character development. Readers who enjoy immersive storytelling and rich details may find much to love here, even if it wasn’t the perfect fit for me.
While this book didn’t fully capture my imagination, I can see how others might find its story engaging. The journey of Jan is intriguing, and there are moments where the narrative hints at a future worth exploring. Though I personally won’t be continuing the series, I appreciate the author's dedication to world-building and character development. Readers who enjoy immersive storytelling and rich details may find much to love here, even if it wasn’t the perfect fit for me.
May 15, 2025
I thought this book was good, but it does, in my view, have some issues. The plot has several strands and Jan, the main detective is also involved with an ongoing personal investigation. Initially a runner falls over a cliff, an accident or was she pushed? I was not convinced by the seriousness of this case to start off with, but as other details emerged, I became more engaged with the investigation and the crimes. The descriptions of Devon are well done and the investigation is thorough and described well. A couple of twists in the plot and also in Jan's personal life.
Certainly a good read, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
Certainly a good read, thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
March 26, 2025
The third book in this excellent police series featuring Jan Talantire. A woman falls to her death from a cliff whilst out running. Is it just an accident or is there more to it than that? As with the previous books in the series, the emphasis is on the process of the investigation and it is a riveting read. The plot is suitably complex and twisty. I really enjoyed this and the series just seems to get better and better.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
April 20, 2025
This is a classic police procedural, perfect for fans of the genre. The third book to feature Jan Talantire finds Jan investigating the death of a runner who fell off a cliff. The investigation uncovers a web of intrigue involving spies and Special Branch. It is a steady paced read and the plotting is interesting, with a couple of subplots and plenty of tension. The characterisation is very good, I really like Jan who is a strong, determined character and the team dynamics are good. I really hope we don't have to wait too long for the next book in the series. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
May 25, 2025
The Dark Edge
Wow, this one was gripping!!
A really fast paced and twisty police procedural. This is part of the Jan Talantire series and I really love this series as I feel very connected to Jan. She faces a lot of misogyny in the line of her job and as someone who works in a very male dominated industry I can definitely relate.
In this book, Jan is investigating the death of Joanne, who seemly fell from a cliff edge trying to retrieve her elderly mother’s hat.. but is all as it seems?
This plot is really complex in the best way. Absolutely loved it.
Wow, this one was gripping!!
A really fast paced and twisty police procedural. This is part of the Jan Talantire series and I really love this series as I feel very connected to Jan. She faces a lot of misogyny in the line of her job and as someone who works in a very male dominated industry I can definitely relate.
In this book, Jan is investigating the death of Joanne, who seemly fell from a cliff edge trying to retrieve her elderly mother’s hat.. but is all as it seems?
This plot is really complex in the best way. Absolutely loved it.
April 17, 2025
Thank you Nick Louth, Netgalley and the publishers to have a copy to review, comments are my own and not influenced in any way.
My wife loves Nick's two series and this book 3 in the DI Jan Talantire story line in no exception for both myself and Karen; its a solid easy to read and follow crime/thriller with a good background social story surrounding Jan Talantire. As the police team investigate Jan is not easily led to believe this was an accident - falling off a cliff edge. I stopped during my reading journey to ponder on the clues and had me going with it all the way to the end. A really good story line and one I hope will continue into book 4.
My wife loves Nick's two series and this book 3 in the DI Jan Talantire story line in no exception for both myself and Karen; its a solid easy to read and follow crime/thriller with a good background social story surrounding Jan Talantire. As the police team investigate Jan is not easily led to believe this was an accident - falling off a cliff edge. I stopped during my reading journey to ponder on the clues and had me going with it all the way to the end. A really good story line and one I hope will continue into book 4.
March 31, 2025
I have read all of Nick’s books. I am really enjoying this series featuring Jan Talantire a DI. This story seems cut and dried from the start but Jan believes there’s more to it. Through in Special Branch, the Russians, dodgy microchips and a mad dowager marchioness and we have a cracking story! Looking forward to the next one
April 16, 2025
This is the third book in the series. I haven't read the others and I had no problem.
Jan Talantire has to figure out if the woman fell off the cliff on purpose or was she pushed. There are lots of suspects if she was pushed.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC and to the publisher Canelo Crime Books.
Jan Talantire has to figure out if the woman fell off the cliff on purpose or was she pushed. There are lots of suspects if she was pushed.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC and to the publisher Canelo Crime Books.
Read
March 29, 2025Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC copy of this book, due to be released 24th April 2025. This is the third book in the series. This series just gets better with each new book. Really enjoyed it, can’t wait for book four.
May 12, 2025
Another winner
Nick Louth never disappoints. This is another winner. I am pleased to say that I have read all his books and never been let down. Look forward to the development of Jan Talantire's own back story.
Nick Louth never disappoints. This is another winner. I am pleased to say that I have read all his books and never been let down. Look forward to the development of Jan Talantire's own back story.
July 20, 2025
As always Nick Louth has delivered a fast passed thriller packed full of twists and turns. As we get to know Talaintine better I am liking her more and more as a character.
The emerging subplot remains both frustrating and interesting. I can’t wait for the next one!
The emerging subplot remains both frustrating and interesting. I can’t wait for the next one!
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