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The DS Cross Mysteries #1
The Dentist
A cold case that has been ignored. . . A detective who fights for the voiceless.
THE DETECTIVE
Bristol detective DS George Cross might be difficult to work with – but his unfailing logic and determined pursuit of the truth means he is second to none at convicting killers.
THE CRIME
When the police dismiss a man's death as a squabble among the homeless community, Cross is not convinced; there are too many unanswered questions.
Who was the unknown man whose weather-beaten body was discovered on Clifton Downs? And was the same tragedy that resulted in his life on the streets also responsible for his death?
THE COLD CASE
As Cross delves into the dead man's past, he discovers that the answers lie in a case that has been cold for fifteen years.
Cross is the only person who can unpick the decades-old murder – after all, who better to decipher the life of a person who society has forgotten than a man who has always felt like an outsider himself?
THE DETECTIVE
Bristol detective DS George Cross might be difficult to work with – but his unfailing logic and determined pursuit of the truth means he is second to none at convicting killers.
THE CRIME
When the police dismiss a man's death as a squabble among the homeless community, Cross is not convinced; there are too many unanswered questions.
Who was the unknown man whose weather-beaten body was discovered on Clifton Downs? And was the same tragedy that resulted in his life on the streets also responsible for his death?
THE COLD CASE
As Cross delves into the dead man's past, he discovers that the answers lie in a case that has been cold for fifteen years.
Cross is the only person who can unpick the decades-old murder – after all, who better to decipher the life of a person who society has forgotten than a man who has always felt like an outsider himself?
384 pages, Hardcover
First published June 10, 2020
4703 people are currently reading
10705 people want to read
About the author
Tim Sullivan
16 books647 followersTim Sullivan is an acclaimed screenwriter. He originally read English and Law at university - the latter forced on him by his Dad - but instead he wriggled free of those parental ambitions and pursued his own, to make films. His writing credits include A HANDFUL OF DUST, starring Kristen Scott Thomas, WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD, starring Helen Mirren and Helena Bonham Carter, JACK AND SARAH (which he also directed) starring Richard E Grant, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen and LETTERS TO JULIET, with Amanda Seyfried. He is also a Television director whose credits include SHERLOCK HOLMES and COLD FEET and CORONATIONS STREET. He has written extensively in Hollywood in both live action and animation, working with Ron Howard, Scott Rudin and with Jeffrey Katzenberg on the fourth SHREK movie.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially-awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
He self-published the first two books and once they'd achieved over 200,000 downloads he came to the attention of Head of Zeus publishers. So thanks to all his readers for this success and their shared love of George.
The novels are set in Bristol in the south west of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force. Tim has now written the first four in the series with The Patient being published on March 3rd 2022.
Tim feels confident in his claim that he is the only crime writer around who has also co-produced and written a My Little Pony movie for Hasbro. MY LITTLE PONY - A NEW GENERATION is now available on Netflix.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel, the Emmy award-winning producer of THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA and PIONEER WOMAN. Their daughters live near by.
For more stuff about Tim visit his website www.timsullivan.co.uk
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially-awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
He self-published the first two books and once they'd achieved over 200,000 downloads he came to the attention of Head of Zeus publishers. So thanks to all his readers for this success and their shared love of George.
The novels are set in Bristol in the south west of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force. Tim has now written the first four in the series with The Patient being published on March 3rd 2022.
Tim feels confident in his claim that he is the only crime writer around who has also co-produced and written a My Little Pony movie for Hasbro. MY LITTLE PONY - A NEW GENERATION is now available on Netflix.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel, the Emmy award-winning producer of THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA and PIONEER WOMAN. Their daughters live near by.
For more stuff about Tim visit his website www.timsullivan.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,241 reviews
December 16, 2022
Having recently discovered this series by Tim Sullivan, featuring DS George Cross of Somerset and Avon Police, I listened to this, the first in the series on audio, 10 hours and 15 minutes long, wonderfully narrated by John Hefferman. Cross is a unique police officer, with the best record for solving cases, a determined and dogged detective, organised and logical, dedicated to following procedures which makes him a popular and much appreciated figure in law enforcement. However, he proves to be a challenge to the police hierarchy because he is on the spectrum, he is a loner, he is close only to his father, Raymond, and his social skills leave a lot to be desired. This has resulted in DS Josie Ottey being tasked to keep an eye on him and to smooth any issues that may arise, such as his relationship with new police recruit, Alice Mackenzie.
We learn of Cross's personal history and how he came to be a police officer, and the difficulties he experienced initially, including being belittled and bullied. Here he has a complicated murder investigation after a homeless man is discovered strangled on the Clifton Downs. He refuses to accept that another homeless man is guilty, and against his boss's orders, continues to probe, discovering the victim used to be dentist whose wife had been murdered many years previously, a cold case with the original investigation containing numerous anomalies and oddities. This was a gripping listen that I thoroughly enjoyed, and ably establishes the central protagonist as a series character and unusual police officer you want to know more about. A brilliant crime read, and I can definitely recommend the audio.
We learn of Cross's personal history and how he came to be a police officer, and the difficulties he experienced initially, including being belittled and bullied. Here he has a complicated murder investigation after a homeless man is discovered strangled on the Clifton Downs. He refuses to accept that another homeless man is guilty, and against his boss's orders, continues to probe, discovering the victim used to be dentist whose wife had been murdered many years previously, a cold case with the original investigation containing numerous anomalies and oddities. This was a gripping listen that I thoroughly enjoyed, and ably establishes the central protagonist as a series character and unusual police officer you want to know more about. A brilliant crime read, and I can definitely recommend the audio.
February 19, 2026
Highly recommended for fans of character-led crime fiction.
“No comment.”
The case appears deceptively simple: a homeless person has been murdered. But by whom—and why? And perhaps more challenging still: how do the police identify a victim who lived off the grid and clearly didn’t want to be found?
Enter the investigative team.
We’re immediately introduced to Detective Sergeant George Cross of the Major Crime Unit, Avon and Somerset Police—and it’s clear right away that no one is exactly lining up to work with him. Despite being the most successful officer when it comes to conviction rates, Cross is… difficult. His unique interrogation methods consistently deliver confessions prosecutors love, but his Asperger’s traits—his need for order, precision, and facts—also make social interaction and emotional nuance a challenge.
That’s where D.S. Josie Ottey comes in. She’s not thrilled about partnering with Cross, but she’s sharp enough to recognize his brilliance and willing to bridge the gaps where he struggles—especially when empathy and people skills matter most.
Rounding out the team is Alice Mackenzie, a 24-year-old Police Staff Investigator, new to the job and eager to contribute. She has insights to offer, but being young and inexperienced means she’s often overlooked. Watching how (and if) she proves her worth adds another layer of interest to the investigation.
While the supporting cast is strong, Cross is undeniably the gravitational center of this story. Logical, relentless, and persistent, he’s both fascinating and frustrating (to his peers/boss). His bluntness and awkwardness may grate on his colleagues, but readers will likely find him worthy reading. As a misfit himself, Cross identifies deeply with society’s overlooked victims, and that perspective brings a refreshing humanity to the procedural elements. His attention to detail—and quiet sense of justice—adds depth and originality to this debut mystery.
As the investigation unfolds, questions begin to slot into place: Why is the book titled The Dentist? (No spoilers from me.) How does this case connect to a cold case from fifteen years ago? And does Cross possess other, unexpected talents that might help him connect with those around him?
This is not a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled thriller. Instead, it’s a medium-paced, character-driven police procedural that leans into careful, methodical investigation. For readers who enjoy thoughtful mysteries and distinctive detectives, this is a strong and promising start to a new series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ stars
“No comment.”
The case appears deceptively simple: a homeless person has been murdered. But by whom—and why? And perhaps more challenging still: how do the police identify a victim who lived off the grid and clearly didn’t want to be found?
Enter the investigative team.
We’re immediately introduced to Detective Sergeant George Cross of the Major Crime Unit, Avon and Somerset Police—and it’s clear right away that no one is exactly lining up to work with him. Despite being the most successful officer when it comes to conviction rates, Cross is… difficult. His unique interrogation methods consistently deliver confessions prosecutors love, but his Asperger’s traits—his need for order, precision, and facts—also make social interaction and emotional nuance a challenge.
That’s where D.S. Josie Ottey comes in. She’s not thrilled about partnering with Cross, but she’s sharp enough to recognize his brilliance and willing to bridge the gaps where he struggles—especially when empathy and people skills matter most.
Rounding out the team is Alice Mackenzie, a 24-year-old Police Staff Investigator, new to the job and eager to contribute. She has insights to offer, but being young and inexperienced means she’s often overlooked. Watching how (and if) she proves her worth adds another layer of interest to the investigation.
While the supporting cast is strong, Cross is undeniably the gravitational center of this story. Logical, relentless, and persistent, he’s both fascinating and frustrating (to his peers/boss). His bluntness and awkwardness may grate on his colleagues, but readers will likely find him worthy reading. As a misfit himself, Cross identifies deeply with society’s overlooked victims, and that perspective brings a refreshing humanity to the procedural elements. His attention to detail—and quiet sense of justice—adds depth and originality to this debut mystery.
As the investigation unfolds, questions begin to slot into place: Why is the book titled The Dentist? (No spoilers from me.) How does this case connect to a cold case from fifteen years ago? And does Cross possess other, unexpected talents that might help him connect with those around him?
This is not a high-octane, adrenaline-fueled thriller. Instead, it’s a medium-paced, character-driven police procedural that leans into careful, methodical investigation. For readers who enjoy thoughtful mysteries and distinctive detectives, this is a strong and promising start to a new series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ stars
January 27, 2026
5 Sunshiny Stars.
DS George Cross is my kind main character. His eccentric, pull no punches way of going through life grabbed me on the first page. As a matter of fact, all of these riveting characters are overflowing with charisma and hilarious sass.
Author Tim Sullivan's talents are extensive. If he's not writing and directing a hit movie script, he's probably working on his next DS Cross Mystery bestseller.
Sign me up for the whole series.
DS George Cross is my kind main character. His eccentric, pull no punches way of going through life grabbed me on the first page. As a matter of fact, all of these riveting characters are overflowing with charisma and hilarious sass.
Author Tim Sullivan's talents are extensive. If he's not writing and directing a hit movie script, he's probably working on his next DS Cross Mystery bestseller.
Sign me up for the whole series.
April 27, 2025
4★
“Like so many people, he had come to the conclusion that the odd man in front of him was a bumbling, disorganised eccentric. Big mistake.”
Indeed it was. This is no rumpled Columbo they’re dealing with. DS Cross doesn’t bumble but does organise. He is certainly eccentric, being outside the centre of general behaviour, but it’s a mistake to assume that this means he is somehow less-than.
Over the years, Cross has learned what it is about himself that people find hard to understand, and when it suits him (or when he thinks of it) to modify his behaviour to make someone feel more comfortable, he makes the effort. That effort is the trouble. Where others use the social niceties to help us rub along together, Cross often needs prompting.
His reluctant partner is DS Ottey. She keeps asking not to be partnered with him, because he’s so difficult, but each time, she’s told that she is the one who ‘manages’ him best. She has to admit, he is certainly successful.
They are investigating the recent murder of a man whose wife was also murdered, several years ago and for which someone was found guilty and jailed. Cross insists that they check the old case, and he’s assigned some jobs to the new recruit, Mackenzie.
Mackenzie is brand new, keen, earnest and anxious to do a good job, if only someone would tell her what her job is. Finally, she is delighted that Cross has given her an assignment to research dates and times, sift through data, and narrow the results down to a list.
When Mackenzie brings the list in early in the morning, DS Ottey notices she looks exhausted, which is when Mackenzie says she had been up all night working on it. She begins to explain what she’s done, how she did it, and how many possibilities there still are to be checked. The list is several pages long.
“She held the list out to Cross, but he didn't take it, leaving her hanging there like she'd just had a fist bump unreciprocated. He looked straight through her. She thought she'd done something wrong, but he was simply processing what she had said.”
Cross instructs her to narrow the list again for all the names that contain certain initials, but then decides it’s quicker to do it himself, whizzes through, highlights the names in an instant, leaving Mackenzie gobsmacked.
“She just stood there, not moving. Ottey stepped in with the words this young staff officer was expecting – needing, in fact. ‘That's great. Thanks Alice, you can go,’ she said.
Mackenzie stood there for a moment, as if unsure who she should obey, then left. ‘Okay.’
Ottey looked back at Cross, who was oblivious to this.
‘ “Well done”, “good work”...’ said Ottey.
‘I don't understand.’
He looked at her, but she wasn't giving him any more help on this one. He knew he'd done something wrong, just not what it was. But she wasn't upset, which meant someone else was. He then looked at Mackenzie, who had gone back to her desk. She'd been up all night, she said, doing this list. He thought for a minute, played the conversation back in his mind. He'd been business-like, not rude; he was fairly sure about that. Then he got it. He hadn't said ‘thank you’. She needed reassurance and gratitude. Noted.
Mind you, they shouldn't need all this molly-coddling.”
Noted. That’s important. He does make a mental note of these things and sometimes manages appropriate responses, which he finds particularly useful when interviewing people. Rather than showing off how clever he actually is, he leads people to believe he’s not only odd but perhaps a little slow, so they go out of their way to explain things – which is when lies trip us up of course.
I liked the back story about his dad (a creative hoarder who repurposes stuff), and his hobbies (church organs) and personal life (cyclist) as well. I started off feeling as if this was going to be a lesson in autism/aspergers/whatever, but the author managed to work it into the story pretty comfortably, and before long I was truly hooked.
Cross is reminiscent of Dr Gregory House from the TV series “House”, but he isn’t grumpy or angry. He’s just a perfectionist whose skills in noticing clues – things out of place – make him an excellent detective.
I ended up enjoying it and also enjoying the audio, part of which I listened to as well as reading the text. There are four more in the series and a new one to come I believe.
“Like so many people, he had come to the conclusion that the odd man in front of him was a bumbling, disorganised eccentric. Big mistake.”
Indeed it was. This is no rumpled Columbo they’re dealing with. DS Cross doesn’t bumble but does organise. He is certainly eccentric, being outside the centre of general behaviour, but it’s a mistake to assume that this means he is somehow less-than.
Over the years, Cross has learned what it is about himself that people find hard to understand, and when it suits him (or when he thinks of it) to modify his behaviour to make someone feel more comfortable, he makes the effort. That effort is the trouble. Where others use the social niceties to help us rub along together, Cross often needs prompting.
His reluctant partner is DS Ottey. She keeps asking not to be partnered with him, because he’s so difficult, but each time, she’s told that she is the one who ‘manages’ him best. She has to admit, he is certainly successful.
They are investigating the recent murder of a man whose wife was also murdered, several years ago and for which someone was found guilty and jailed. Cross insists that they check the old case, and he’s assigned some jobs to the new recruit, Mackenzie.
Mackenzie is brand new, keen, earnest and anxious to do a good job, if only someone would tell her what her job is. Finally, she is delighted that Cross has given her an assignment to research dates and times, sift through data, and narrow the results down to a list.
When Mackenzie brings the list in early in the morning, DS Ottey notices she looks exhausted, which is when Mackenzie says she had been up all night working on it. She begins to explain what she’s done, how she did it, and how many possibilities there still are to be checked. The list is several pages long.
“She held the list out to Cross, but he didn't take it, leaving her hanging there like she'd just had a fist bump unreciprocated. He looked straight through her. She thought she'd done something wrong, but he was simply processing what she had said.”
Cross instructs her to narrow the list again for all the names that contain certain initials, but then decides it’s quicker to do it himself, whizzes through, highlights the names in an instant, leaving Mackenzie gobsmacked.
“She just stood there, not moving. Ottey stepped in with the words this young staff officer was expecting – needing, in fact. ‘That's great. Thanks Alice, you can go,’ she said.
Mackenzie stood there for a moment, as if unsure who she should obey, then left. ‘Okay.’
Ottey looked back at Cross, who was oblivious to this.
‘ “Well done”, “good work”...’ said Ottey.
‘I don't understand.’
He looked at her, but she wasn't giving him any more help on this one. He knew he'd done something wrong, just not what it was. But she wasn't upset, which meant someone else was. He then looked at Mackenzie, who had gone back to her desk. She'd been up all night, she said, doing this list. He thought for a minute, played the conversation back in his mind. He'd been business-like, not rude; he was fairly sure about that. Then he got it. He hadn't said ‘thank you’. She needed reassurance and gratitude. Noted.
Mind you, they shouldn't need all this molly-coddling.”
Noted. That’s important. He does make a mental note of these things and sometimes manages appropriate responses, which he finds particularly useful when interviewing people. Rather than showing off how clever he actually is, he leads people to believe he’s not only odd but perhaps a little slow, so they go out of their way to explain things – which is when lies trip us up of course.
I liked the back story about his dad (a creative hoarder who repurposes stuff), and his hobbies (church organs) and personal life (cyclist) as well. I started off feeling as if this was going to be a lesson in autism/aspergers/whatever, but the author managed to work it into the story pretty comfortably, and before long I was truly hooked.
Cross is reminiscent of Dr Gregory House from the TV series “House”, but he isn’t grumpy or angry. He’s just a perfectionist whose skills in noticing clues – things out of place – make him an excellent detective.
I ended up enjoying it and also enjoying the audio, part of which I listened to as well as reading the text. There are four more in the series and a new one to come I believe.
July 4, 2024
“The Dentist” (book 1 of DS Cross series), by Tim Sullivan
4 brilliant stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a new author to me, recently recommended by a fellow reader, and I’m so grateful.
A very easy read and a great start to a series. I would say that it’s of a medium pace, and some readers may find it slow, but I thought it was perfect for me.
The main character, DS Cross, who is diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, is quite unique and also extraordinary.
His interaction with all of the characters was brilliantly written.
The development of the storyline was very engaging and I didn’t want to put it down, not because of the plot, but mainly for the interaction between the characters.
The conclusion was a surprise, and I applaud the author for it.
I read the ebook while simultaneously listening to the excellent audiobook.
I’m so looking forward to reading the other books in the series, which I have already purchased blindly.
e-book (Kobo): 384 pages (default), 97k words (out of which only one was the “f”, on the contrary of one reviewer who trashed this book)
Audiobook narrated by John Heffernan: 10.2 hours (normal speed)
4 brilliant stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a new author to me, recently recommended by a fellow reader, and I’m so grateful.
A very easy read and a great start to a series. I would say that it’s of a medium pace, and some readers may find it slow, but I thought it was perfect for me.
The main character, DS Cross, who is diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome, is quite unique and also extraordinary.
His interaction with all of the characters was brilliantly written.
The development of the storyline was very engaging and I didn’t want to put it down, not because of the plot, but mainly for the interaction between the characters.
The conclusion was a surprise, and I applaud the author for it.
I read the ebook while simultaneously listening to the excellent audiobook.
I’m so looking forward to reading the other books in the series, which I have already purchased blindly.
e-book (Kobo): 384 pages (default), 97k words (out of which only one was the “f”, on the contrary of one reviewer who trashed this book)
Audiobook narrated by John Heffernan: 10.2 hours (normal speed)
October 27, 2025
EXCERPT: Cross studied the corpse's face. Who was this man? How did he end up here? Like this? What events in his life led him to this moment? What was his story?
He was always drawn to cases like this. Cases of the dispossessed. The outsider. He related to them because in many ways he was one himself. An outcast, a social misfit, a curiosity - someone it was easier not to engage with, to walk past, avoid. This was what interested him in murder in the first place. The ability to give a victim a voice when they no longer had one of their own.
ABOUT 'THE DENTIST (DS CROSS MYSTERIES #1): A homeless man. Violently strangled. No leads. Except for his past.
An outsider himself, DS George Cross is drawn to this case. The discovery of the dead man's connection to an old cold case then pulls Cross in further. Convinced this is where the answer to the murder lies, he sets about solving another that someone has spent the past fifteen years thinking they’ve got away with.
Cross’s relentless obsession with logic, detail and patterns is what makes him so irritatingly brilliant. It doesn’t exactly make him popular with colleagues or his superiors, though. He has numerous enemies in the force wanting to see him fail.
Red flags are soon raised as suspicious inconsistencies and errors in the original detective’s investigation come to light. Now retired, this ex-cop has powerful friends in the force and a long-standing dislike of Cross.
Set in picturesque Bristol in the Southwest of England, it’s not long before the city reveals its dark underbelly, in a case of intriguing twists and turns whose result astonishes even those involved.
Difficult and awkward, maybe. But Cross has the best conviction rate in Avon & Somerset Police. By far. Will this case put an end to that?
MY THOUGHTS: Having read and loved several of the later books in this series, I was excited to be able to begin at the beginning - getting to know George Cross in his early days on the force. Yet, the series doesn't start, as one would expect, at the beginning of his career. George's credentials are already well established. He is the thorn in the side (not to mention the pain in the ass) of many, despite holding the highest conviction rate in the force.
George is a man with no social graces, no empathy. He is a man of logic and patterns. He often doesn't answer when spoken to - he has his own logical explanation for that as he has for all his other quirks and idiosyncrasies. He is apt to walk out of briefings, that is if he even bothers to attend them, his mind focused on a singular aspect and, like a dog with a bone, he will worry at it until he has unraveled the problem. I enjoy George. I appreciate the way his mind works - ‘I work on logic, patterns, indicators, relevant factors and gaps that indicate a break in that logic or those patterns,’. George's passion for justice and his need for every piece of evidence to sit firmly in its rightful place may be the bane of his superiors' lives, but it makes for a wonderful reading experience.
And while the reader doesn't learn about George's earlier career, George's family history is shared, as is how he came to join the police force. Other than these nuggets of information and a cold case which has links to George's current case, The Dentist is set firmly in the present.
The supporting cast, George's father Raymond, himself a bit 'odd'; DS Josie Ottey, George's current partner is probably one of the few people who have some understanding of how George's mind works. She has learned to adapt to him and has a sneaking admiration for his skills, although that doesn't stop her requesting to be transferred every opportunity she gets. DCI Carson is George's immediate superior, his skills lying more in the political area of policing than the practical. I felt very sorry at first for Alice MacKenzie, a trainee police staff investigator assigned to George. She's very keen to do a good job and often goes the extra mile to try to please George, but receives little to no feedback, let alone any praise.
If, like me, you like thoughtful character-based mysteries rather than thrillers, I strongly recommend the George Cross series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheDentist #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: TIM SULLIVAN made his first short film before graduating from Cambridge University. His ambition to become a screenwriter was formed not so much by this experience but as an attempt to foil his father’s determination to turn him into a lawyer.
Within weeks of leaving university armed with a law degree Tim had met the film maker Derek Jarman and persuaded him to commission an original screenplay from him. A few months later he joined Granada Television as a researcher. Here he was commissioned to write the first of many television scripts and also wrote screenplays for movies.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel. (source: https://timsullivan.co.uk/about/about... (abridged)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Grove Atlantic, Atlantic Crime, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of The Dentist by Tim Sullivan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
He was always drawn to cases like this. Cases of the dispossessed. The outsider. He related to them because in many ways he was one himself. An outcast, a social misfit, a curiosity - someone it was easier not to engage with, to walk past, avoid. This was what interested him in murder in the first place. The ability to give a victim a voice when they no longer had one of their own.
ABOUT 'THE DENTIST (DS CROSS MYSTERIES #1): A homeless man. Violently strangled. No leads. Except for his past.
An outsider himself, DS George Cross is drawn to this case. The discovery of the dead man's connection to an old cold case then pulls Cross in further. Convinced this is where the answer to the murder lies, he sets about solving another that someone has spent the past fifteen years thinking they’ve got away with.
Cross’s relentless obsession with logic, detail and patterns is what makes him so irritatingly brilliant. It doesn’t exactly make him popular with colleagues or his superiors, though. He has numerous enemies in the force wanting to see him fail.
Red flags are soon raised as suspicious inconsistencies and errors in the original detective’s investigation come to light. Now retired, this ex-cop has powerful friends in the force and a long-standing dislike of Cross.
Set in picturesque Bristol in the Southwest of England, it’s not long before the city reveals its dark underbelly, in a case of intriguing twists and turns whose result astonishes even those involved.
Difficult and awkward, maybe. But Cross has the best conviction rate in Avon & Somerset Police. By far. Will this case put an end to that?
MY THOUGHTS: Having read and loved several of the later books in this series, I was excited to be able to begin at the beginning - getting to know George Cross in his early days on the force. Yet, the series doesn't start, as one would expect, at the beginning of his career. George's credentials are already well established. He is the thorn in the side (not to mention the pain in the ass) of many, despite holding the highest conviction rate in the force.
George is a man with no social graces, no empathy. He is a man of logic and patterns. He often doesn't answer when spoken to - he has his own logical explanation for that as he has for all his other quirks and idiosyncrasies. He is apt to walk out of briefings, that is if he even bothers to attend them, his mind focused on a singular aspect and, like a dog with a bone, he will worry at it until he has unraveled the problem. I enjoy George. I appreciate the way his mind works - ‘I work on logic, patterns, indicators, relevant factors and gaps that indicate a break in that logic or those patterns,’. George's passion for justice and his need for every piece of evidence to sit firmly in its rightful place may be the bane of his superiors' lives, but it makes for a wonderful reading experience.
And while the reader doesn't learn about George's earlier career, George's family history is shared, as is how he came to join the police force. Other than these nuggets of information and a cold case which has links to George's current case, The Dentist is set firmly in the present.
The supporting cast, George's father Raymond, himself a bit 'odd'; DS Josie Ottey, George's current partner is probably one of the few people who have some understanding of how George's mind works. She has learned to adapt to him and has a sneaking admiration for his skills, although that doesn't stop her requesting to be transferred every opportunity she gets. DCI Carson is George's immediate superior, his skills lying more in the political area of policing than the practical. I felt very sorry at first for Alice MacKenzie, a trainee police staff investigator assigned to George. She's very keen to do a good job and often goes the extra mile to try to please George, but receives little to no feedback, let alone any praise.
If, like me, you like thoughtful character-based mysteries rather than thrillers, I strongly recommend the George Cross series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.2
#TheDentist #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: TIM SULLIVAN made his first short film before graduating from Cambridge University. His ambition to become a screenwriter was formed not so much by this experience but as an attempt to foil his father’s determination to turn him into a lawyer.
Within weeks of leaving university armed with a law degree Tim had met the film maker Derek Jarman and persuaded him to commission an original screenplay from him. A few months later he joined Granada Television as a researcher. Here he was commissioned to write the first of many television scripts and also wrote screenplays for movies.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel. (source: https://timsullivan.co.uk/about/about... (abridged)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Grove Atlantic, Atlantic Crime, via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of The Dentist by Tim Sullivan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 5, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE DENTIST (DS Cross Mystery Series Book #1) by Tim Sullivan is the first book in a new British police procedural series with an intricately plotted mystery and a rather unique protagonist. A DS with Asperger syndrome would seem unlikely, but the syndrome is on a spectrum and his absence of social skills and empathy is more than compensated for by his meticulous pursuit of facts and justice.
DS George Cross has the best conviction rate in the Avon & Somerset Police. The prosecuting lawyers all love to get his cases because every fact is checked and in a logical order for an easy conviction. This attention to detail does not always make Cross an easy person to work with though. He is brilliant at his job, but he is not good with his colleagues. He does not understand many social cues that everyone else takes for granted.
A homeless man is found murdered. Cross and his partner Ottey begin to investigate and soon find a suspect, but Cross does not believe he is responsible for the man’s death. They discover that the wife’s murdered man was a much loved dentist until the murder of his wife fifteen years previously. Cross believes the solution to their present case will be solved with the resolution of the wife’s murder.
Suspicious inconsistencies begin to be raised in the original investigation. Now retired, the officer in charge of the wife’s murder is hiding something behind powerful friends on the force. Cross and Ottey are following a trail that will shock all involved.
I enjoyed this new DS protagonist and all of his quirks. The rapport between Cross and Ottey is revealed throughout the story and as much as Ottey complains, she also finds Cross interesting and someone she can learn from. The third person working with Cross is Alice Mackenzie who is a police trainee. She is innocent and eager, but she has to learn how to interact with Cross which leads to some humorous exchanges and no recognition of her hard work except in Cross’ mind because he does not feel it is necessary to verbalize. The plot is very detail oriented with plenty of twists and surprises. I liked every revelation of character and plot in this mystery which made for an excellently paced read.
I recommend this mystery and DS Cross. I am looking forward to many more books in this series.
THE DENTIST (DS Cross Mystery Series Book #1) by Tim Sullivan is the first book in a new British police procedural series with an intricately plotted mystery and a rather unique protagonist. A DS with Asperger syndrome would seem unlikely, but the syndrome is on a spectrum and his absence of social skills and empathy is more than compensated for by his meticulous pursuit of facts and justice.
DS George Cross has the best conviction rate in the Avon & Somerset Police. The prosecuting lawyers all love to get his cases because every fact is checked and in a logical order for an easy conviction. This attention to detail does not always make Cross an easy person to work with though. He is brilliant at his job, but he is not good with his colleagues. He does not understand many social cues that everyone else takes for granted.
A homeless man is found murdered. Cross and his partner Ottey begin to investigate and soon find a suspect, but Cross does not believe he is responsible for the man’s death. They discover that the wife’s murdered man was a much loved dentist until the murder of his wife fifteen years previously. Cross believes the solution to their present case will be solved with the resolution of the wife’s murder.
Suspicious inconsistencies begin to be raised in the original investigation. Now retired, the officer in charge of the wife’s murder is hiding something behind powerful friends on the force. Cross and Ottey are following a trail that will shock all involved.
I enjoyed this new DS protagonist and all of his quirks. The rapport between Cross and Ottey is revealed throughout the story and as much as Ottey complains, she also finds Cross interesting and someone she can learn from. The third person working with Cross is Alice Mackenzie who is a police trainee. She is innocent and eager, but she has to learn how to interact with Cross which leads to some humorous exchanges and no recognition of her hard work except in Cross’ mind because he does not feel it is necessary to verbalize. The plot is very detail oriented with plenty of twists and surprises. I liked every revelation of character and plot in this mystery which made for an excellently paced read.
I recommend this mystery and DS Cross. I am looking forward to many more books in this series.
October 1, 2024
Intriguing and full of twists. You cannot not like Cross ..
![Profile Image for Terence M [Quot libros, quam breve tempus!].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1712357414i%2F6658001._UY200_CR4%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 2, 2026
*Edited 05 Jan 25, 3.5-Stars rounded down to 3.0-Stars*
First published in June 2020. I enjoyed it, with reservations.
When I first started listening to "The Dentist" I was fascinated by the concept of a highly successful Detective Sergeant achieving an outstanding record for criminal convictions, despite being described as "on the spectrum", which in George Cross's case was diagnosed as "Asperger's Syndrome".
This is a dual crime novel, with an investigation of a 'current crime', followed by the necessity to solve a 'cold-case crime' first, before the current crime could be resolved. Not too complicated but it seemed it could be an interesting listening experience.
I raced through the first 8:30 hours, 84%, in just two 'sittings' before making a note in my Listening Activity. At this point I was definitely enjoying the book, despite narrator Finlay Robertson's lack of vocal characterisations for the key characters, frequently making it difficult to distinguish who was saying what. The author, Tim Sullivan's writing was generally good, save for some seemingly unnecessary repetition, and I winced each of the four times he used the hideous, non-British idiom "from the get-go"!
Today, as I headed for my mandatory afternoon rest, I decided to listen to the remaining 1:40 hours instead of sleeping (slap on the wrist for me!) and I finished the book with an overall feeling of disappointment. From the first 70% of the story, it became clearly evident which character was guilty of the cold-case murder, but it seemed to take forever for this murderer to be revealed. Then, quite suddenly in the last chapter (Chapter 50, 05:54 minutes) the murderer involved in the current crime was also revealed, almost as an after-thought. This had me quite bewildered, making me think that the author had suddenly decided to wrap the overall story and finish the book. Is that it, I thought? Final chapter, tell us who was guilty of each murder in one fell swoop, and goodnight?
But wait, there's more! The audiobook recording (released in 2021) continued with the announcement of "A Bonus Chapter"! (Chapter 51, 15:55 minutes), written by the author in 2021. This turned out to be a re-write of first final chapter, including much of the original text, but three times longer, and more or less explaining how and why the murderer in the current crime was revealed. Hardly a satisfactory result for a first novel by an already very experienced writer who boasts of the many screen plays, and films etc, that he has written and/or directed.
I gave much consideration to my rating before choosing 3.5
The first two books in the DS Cross series were self-published, but thereafter Head of Zeus became Sullivan's 'proper' publisher and my faith in the author's creativity and his DS Cross character has lead me to choose #3 in the series, "The Patient" as my next listen and, if I don't nod off too early, I'll start that tonight. I am hopeful that Finlay Robertson's narration has improved, but it is not a killer factor for me for one more book.
From My Listening Activity:
Commenced listening: 20/12/2024
Heard: 08:32 Hours - Balance: 01:40 Hours
Terence M is 84% done
A fascinating police procedural, featuring DS Cross of the Somerset & Avon Police, who is "on the spectrum". I love Tim Sullivan's writing, except that he used the non-British idiom, "from the get-go" four times. The narration was just OK.
Terence M is 99% done
Heard: 10 Hours - Balance: 00:01 Hours
Well, I'm relatively disappointed with the final chapters of this book, despite my early enthusiasm for the DS Cross character and Tim Sullivan's writing. I will elaborate later in my review and I am contemplating my rating at the moment.
December 11, 2024
THE DENTIST is Book #1 in the DS Cross series, and the third one in that series I have read. I wish I had read it first, as it introduces readers not only to the marvellous DS George Cross, but also to the regular team that surrounds him. The books can be read out of order in terms of plot, but as the series progresses, relationships between George and the others in his life evolve.
From the beginning, we view the world as George views it. For example, he has unusual olfactory sensitivities. For instance: ’A cloud of stale alcohol wafted up from the body, obliterating the cold early morning smell of rot and autumnal decay in the air. A smell Cross had always appreciated when examining a dead body. It centred him.’ He is also overly sensitive to sounds. Viz: ’He was the only detective in the unit with his own office, aside from Carson. All the others had desks in the open area. This was because he could not deal with the noise.’ In addition, George can only eat if each of the edibles is placed on a separate plate. ’He knew he had an odd thing about food. He’d been told it was a form of OCD, which had possibly been instigated or, at least, exacerbated by his Asperger’s.’
Cross is aware that he is autistic, and thus odd—’The outsider … An outcast, a social misfit, a curiosity—someone it was easier not to engage with, to walk past, avoid.’ When he arrived at a crime scene, he showed up ’on a bicycle fully kitted out in a dayglo green helmet with a flashing light and digital camera attached to the top, dayglo cycling windbreaker, dayglo bicycle clips around his ankles and a small backpack over his shoulder. He looked more like an eccentric, absent-minded, fifty-year-old geography teacher who had lost his way en route to an orienting field trip, than a serving detective sergeant in the Major Crime Unit of the Avon and Somerset police.’
In THE DENTIST, the body of a murdered homeless man is soon identified as that of a former successful dentist who lost his bearings after his wife was murdered. The story follows a trail of potential suspects, starting with another homeless man with whom he’d had a quarrel, the dentist’s surviving family (daughters and in-laws), a man recently released from prison who had briefly confessed to the wife’s murder (and then recanted his confession), and then takes a sudden turn as George Cross follows a logical path through the maze of clues. ’Cases sometimes just came together so quickly, often after long periods of just not being able to see it.’
It is in this first book that we get a good look at Cross’s close colleagues—
(1) DS Josie Ottey, his current partner, a black single mother of two in her late thirties. ’Ottey had recently become the interface between Cross and the rest of the department. Truth be told, since they’d been partnered together, she’d become his apologist and translator with the rest of the world. She wasn’t entirely happy about this.’
(2) DCI Carson. ’At thirty-five, Carson had the air of someone who would go far in the force. Not because he was a great detective or a particularly astute policeman, but because he had that unmistakable air of someone who was political.’
(3) Alice Mackenzie, twenty-four years old, the daughter of socialist, red-flag-singing parents, university academics, who viewed her decision to join the police as a kick in the teeth. Alice is a trainee police staff investigator who begins ’on her first day, keen as mustard, determined to make a good impression from the get-go.’ She is assigned to be George Cross’s errand-girl, and does not receive any feedback for her efforts. After several disappointing interactions with George, ’She was beginning to learn that it was better, on the whole, just to be quiet when around him; not volunteer anything, as it always seemed to backfire.’
Also, we meet George’s father, Raymond, who accepts George as he is, with all his eccentricities. In truth, Raymond is also a bit odd, a hoarder who is obsessed with his previous job in the aerodynamics industry. Consequently, ’many modern experts may well have looked at Raymond himself, his hoarding, his obsessions, and come to the conclusion that he also exhibited some signs of Asperger’s.’
George is a proficient organist, practicing in a local church in St Pauls in exchange for regularly maintaining the instrument. Stephen, a priest, accommodates Cross’ practice needs, but also has his own agenda.
Cross is a great detective because he works systematically. ‘I work on logic, patterns, indicators, relevant factors and gaps that indicate a break in that logic or those patterns,’ He ’believed in order, in proper procedures being followed.’ Unfortunately, he irritated people because he reacted badly when those procedures were not precisely honoured. ’Order and routine were vital to George.’ Consequently, ’He couldn’t cope if procedure was not followed correctly.’
Of course, all people with Asperger’s are not precisely like George. He was an individual, with unique traits, just as everyone has a unique pattern of traits. But one thing the author wrote really hit home with me, because I have found it true of every autistic person I have known. ’He was profoundly put out, in a way that people may find essentially selfish. And of course it was, because the only way he was able to deal with the world was by placing himself at the very centre of it, making everything revolve around him.’
A final note. The identification of the actual murderer occurred abruptly, a surprise without any explanation of how George arrived at his conclusions. In the version of the book that I received, then was a bonus section that said Read on for an exclusive bonus chapter provided by the author in July 2021. This extra chapter explained how George was able to identify the killer.
A 4.5 star read because the sections where George interrogates the villains after they are finally identified slow the action down, and become a bit boring.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the ebook copy that I read.
From the beginning, we view the world as George views it. For example, he has unusual olfactory sensitivities. For instance: ’A cloud of stale alcohol wafted up from the body, obliterating the cold early morning smell of rot and autumnal decay in the air. A smell Cross had always appreciated when examining a dead body. It centred him.’ He is also overly sensitive to sounds. Viz: ’He was the only detective in the unit with his own office, aside from Carson. All the others had desks in the open area. This was because he could not deal with the noise.’ In addition, George can only eat if each of the edibles is placed on a separate plate. ’He knew he had an odd thing about food. He’d been told it was a form of OCD, which had possibly been instigated or, at least, exacerbated by his Asperger’s.’
Cross is aware that he is autistic, and thus odd—’The outsider … An outcast, a social misfit, a curiosity—someone it was easier not to engage with, to walk past, avoid.’ When he arrived at a crime scene, he showed up ’on a bicycle fully kitted out in a dayglo green helmet with a flashing light and digital camera attached to the top, dayglo cycling windbreaker, dayglo bicycle clips around his ankles and a small backpack over his shoulder. He looked more like an eccentric, absent-minded, fifty-year-old geography teacher who had lost his way en route to an orienting field trip, than a serving detective sergeant in the Major Crime Unit of the Avon and Somerset police.’
In THE DENTIST, the body of a murdered homeless man is soon identified as that of a former successful dentist who lost his bearings after his wife was murdered. The story follows a trail of potential suspects, starting with another homeless man with whom he’d had a quarrel, the dentist’s surviving family (daughters and in-laws), a man recently released from prison who had briefly confessed to the wife’s murder (and then recanted his confession), and then takes a sudden turn as George Cross follows a logical path through the maze of clues. ’Cases sometimes just came together so quickly, often after long periods of just not being able to see it.’
It is in this first book that we get a good look at Cross’s close colleagues—
(1) DS Josie Ottey, his current partner, a black single mother of two in her late thirties. ’Ottey had recently become the interface between Cross and the rest of the department. Truth be told, since they’d been partnered together, she’d become his apologist and translator with the rest of the world. She wasn’t entirely happy about this.’
(2) DCI Carson. ’At thirty-five, Carson had the air of someone who would go far in the force. Not because he was a great detective or a particularly astute policeman, but because he had that unmistakable air of someone who was political.’
(3) Alice Mackenzie, twenty-four years old, the daughter of socialist, red-flag-singing parents, university academics, who viewed her decision to join the police as a kick in the teeth. Alice is a trainee police staff investigator who begins ’on her first day, keen as mustard, determined to make a good impression from the get-go.’ She is assigned to be George Cross’s errand-girl, and does not receive any feedback for her efforts. After several disappointing interactions with George, ’She was beginning to learn that it was better, on the whole, just to be quiet when around him; not volunteer anything, as it always seemed to backfire.’
Also, we meet George’s father, Raymond, who accepts George as he is, with all his eccentricities. In truth, Raymond is also a bit odd, a hoarder who is obsessed with his previous job in the aerodynamics industry. Consequently, ’many modern experts may well have looked at Raymond himself, his hoarding, his obsessions, and come to the conclusion that he also exhibited some signs of Asperger’s.’
George is a proficient organist, practicing in a local church in St Pauls in exchange for regularly maintaining the instrument. Stephen, a priest, accommodates Cross’ practice needs, but also has his own agenda.
Cross is a great detective because he works systematically. ‘I work on logic, patterns, indicators, relevant factors and gaps that indicate a break in that logic or those patterns,’ He ’believed in order, in proper procedures being followed.’ Unfortunately, he irritated people because he reacted badly when those procedures were not precisely honoured. ’Order and routine were vital to George.’ Consequently, ’He couldn’t cope if procedure was not followed correctly.’
Of course, all people with Asperger’s are not precisely like George. He was an individual, with unique traits, just as everyone has a unique pattern of traits. But one thing the author wrote really hit home with me, because I have found it true of every autistic person I have known. ’He was profoundly put out, in a way that people may find essentially selfish. And of course it was, because the only way he was able to deal with the world was by placing himself at the very centre of it, making everything revolve around him.’
A final note. The identification of the actual murderer occurred abruptly, a surprise without any explanation of how George arrived at his conclusions. In the version of the book that I received, then was a bonus section that said Read on for an exclusive bonus chapter provided by the author in July 2021. This extra chapter explained how George was able to identify the killer.
A 4.5 star read because the sections where George interrogates the villains after they are finally identified slow the action down, and become a bit boring.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the ebook copy that I read.
February 28, 2026
*Ds Cross*
This is the first book of eight in the George Cross Mysteries series, introducing us to Detective George Cross, a methodical and orderly man on the autism spectrum with Asperger’s Syndrome. His lack of empathy and mastery of long silences make him a formidable interviewer, unnerving suspects and often leading to them to underestimate him. He’s partnered with the long-suffering Detective Ottey, who constantly requests a different partner but faces resistance. No one else will work with him.
Despite her annoyance, Ottey gradually begins to understand George. Their interactions are filled with hilarious moments, as George annoys people to the point of wanting to leave the room while George mysteriously leaves rooms without explanation. I found George endearing.
The case revolves around the discovery of a homeless man’s death, another homeless man was involved in a fight with him and is arrested for the murder, the case seems straightforward to George’s boss but George, despite being asked to wrap up the investigation persists. A cold case emerges, and with Ottey’s help, they unearth evidence that transforms the case into something undeniable.
George is the star of the show and is captivating with his fascinating character.
*A bonus chapter at the end was added in 2021, by the author providing more detail.*
This is the first book of eight in the George Cross Mysteries series, introducing us to Detective George Cross, a methodical and orderly man on the autism spectrum with Asperger’s Syndrome. His lack of empathy and mastery of long silences make him a formidable interviewer, unnerving suspects and often leading to them to underestimate him. He’s partnered with the long-suffering Detective Ottey, who constantly requests a different partner but faces resistance. No one else will work with him.
Despite her annoyance, Ottey gradually begins to understand George. Their interactions are filled with hilarious moments, as George annoys people to the point of wanting to leave the room while George mysteriously leaves rooms without explanation. I found George endearing.
The case revolves around the discovery of a homeless man’s death, another homeless man was involved in a fight with him and is arrested for the murder, the case seems straightforward to George’s boss but George, despite being asked to wrap up the investigation persists. A cold case emerges, and with Ottey’s help, they unearth evidence that transforms the case into something undeniable.
George is the star of the show and is captivating with his fascinating character.
*A bonus chapter at the end was added in 2021, by the author providing more detail.*
August 8, 2020
This pleasant and easy to follow mystery story is set in Bristol, with a body found near the famous suspension bridge, which I recall well so made the scene easy to visualise. The victim is a homeless man, but we discover that he was once a successful dentist. The unsolved murder of his wife years ago led him to a life of drink. The distinctive feature in this series is that DS George Cross has Asperger’s Syndrome (though these days that term is contested). As I have both family and friends with that condition, I was drawn to the story. Basically, it manifests itself in an absence of social skills and ‘common sense’, often combined with aversions of particular foods and sensitivity to noise. As an interrogator, Cross pursues a ruthlessly logical pattern of questioning to expose any inconsistencies in the suspect’s testimony. Fortunately, he also has a passion for justice, every detail, whether the placement of a file folder or a chain of evidence, must fall into place. This is also a very easy mystery for the reader to solve. As so often for experienced readers, we find ourselves asking, ‘Just why are we told this?’ about some seemingly innocuous detail about a character that leads to seeing a pattern, especially joined with the question, ‘How is the presence of this character necessary to the story?’ This is a very professional piece of work. Tim Sullivan is a screenwriter, and the book often feels like a pitch for a television series. For a few days amusement, I recommend it.
June 30, 2025
“Cross’ obsession with order and procedure was what made him one of the most successful detectives in the Major Crime Unit of the Avon and Somerset police, in terms of his conviction rate. Ninety-seven percent of his cases resulted in successful convictions. He had a great set of deductive skills and was something of a legend in the interview room, but it was his detailed presentation of cases to the CPS, his ordered collation of evidence, which was genuinely astonishing. His dogged, slavish, adherence to procedures was extraordinary, if at times frustrating for those working with him.”
DS George Cross is very good at his job, but his Asperger’s syndrome sometimes makes his interactions with colleagues and the general public awkward. His partner DS Ottey is constantly asking to be reassigned. When a homeless man is found murdered, clues tie the murder to an old case that seems to have been bungled. That old case was headed by a now-retired detective who had bullied Cross when he first joined the force.
This is the first book of a series that started in 2020. There are already 10 books in the series, so that gives me a lot to look forward to. Several books are available free in Audible Plus until July 15. I really enjoyed this. Cross is an intriguing character - intelligent, persistent and not angst ridden. His irritating flaw is that he follows the rules too closely. The plot is believable. This isn’t one of those books (unfortunately, too common) in which the author tries so hard to be twisty that the plot has zero credibility. The author is also a screenwriter and director, so he has a lot of experience with plots. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
DS George Cross is very good at his job, but his Asperger’s syndrome sometimes makes his interactions with colleagues and the general public awkward. His partner DS Ottey is constantly asking to be reassigned. When a homeless man is found murdered, clues tie the murder to an old case that seems to have been bungled. That old case was headed by a now-retired detective who had bullied Cross when he first joined the force.
This is the first book of a series that started in 2020. There are already 10 books in the series, so that gives me a lot to look forward to. Several books are available free in Audible Plus until July 15. I really enjoyed this. Cross is an intriguing character - intelligent, persistent and not angst ridden. His irritating flaw is that he follows the rules too closely. The plot is believable. This isn’t one of those books (unfortunately, too common) in which the author tries so hard to be twisty that the plot has zero credibility. The author is also a screenwriter and director, so he has a lot of experience with plots. 4.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
February 28, 2024
3.5 Stars
September 6, 2020
A fairly average crime procedural. The main character, DS Cross, is described as having been diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. However, Cross remains very two dimensional despite the author having read various books on Autism related disorders. The author continuously points out the character's 'oddness' which makes the whole very laboured and detracts from the plot.
July 12, 2022
A friend on Goodreads brought this series to my attention when she said it might be the best police procedural she's read. She reads a lot of books, so I knew I had to check this one out. Detective Sergeant George Cross of the Somerset and Avon police force is the closest I've come to watching a fictional detective solve crimes by following up every single inconsistency and investigating a fact until he had learned everything that fact had to offer his case. Cross has a condition which makes him unable to give up on facts and clues until he has chased every one of them in order to extract every bit of evidence or clues they contain. I've often talked to a book as I was reading it to remind a detective that they had missed vital clues. With DS Cross, he got there without any prodding at all from me.
The story moves rather slowly because Cross is so intent on capturing every scrap of evidence. Readers who want over-the-top action scenes are probably not going to enjoy this series because it does move slowly. For me, that was part of what I enjoyed the most because it seemed as if I was right there with Cross as all the small clues began to fit together to complete what had been a very difficult puzzle. There is an alternate version of one of the chapters included and that was interesting reading to see how the author thought about presenting one of the characters. There is also a sample of the second book in the series to whet the appetite of those of us who enjoyed this first book in the series.
The story moves rather slowly because Cross is so intent on capturing every scrap of evidence. Readers who want over-the-top action scenes are probably not going to enjoy this series because it does move slowly. For me, that was part of what I enjoyed the most because it seemed as if I was right there with Cross as all the small clues began to fit together to complete what had been a very difficult puzzle. There is an alternate version of one of the chapters included and that was interesting reading to see how the author thought about presenting one of the characters. There is also a sample of the second book in the series to whet the appetite of those of us who enjoyed this first book in the series.
July 28, 2020
"So close"
This was so close to a five-star review. George Cross is a brilliant character, and I have no doubts whatsoever that he'll appear on the small screen in the near future. Cross and Ottey tick so many boxes for today's TV audience. As for Mackenzie, well everyone loves an underdog, and young Alice plugged away throughout The Dentist with no reward. As police procedurals go this was top-notch, my only gripe was that some of the Asperger's side-effects were gone over in too much detail. Of course, there would be instances in George's past that deserved an airing to illustrate how the condition influences his every working day - but where do you go to in Book #3 or Book #5? Snippets such as those shoehorned into The Dentist might benefit from being included during later cases. Sometimes less is more, and if you wish readers to feel comfortable about reading later books as a standalone then George's idiosyncrasies might need to be aired yet again. It's a fine balance I guess, but the author's choice just edged me away from giving it top marks.
This was so close to a five-star review. George Cross is a brilliant character, and I have no doubts whatsoever that he'll appear on the small screen in the near future. Cross and Ottey tick so many boxes for today's TV audience. As for Mackenzie, well everyone loves an underdog, and young Alice plugged away throughout The Dentist with no reward. As police procedurals go this was top-notch, my only gripe was that some of the Asperger's side-effects were gone over in too much detail. Of course, there would be instances in George's past that deserved an airing to illustrate how the condition influences his every working day - but where do you go to in Book #3 or Book #5? Snippets such as those shoehorned into The Dentist might benefit from being included during later cases. Sometimes less is more, and if you wish readers to feel comfortable about reading later books as a standalone then George's idiosyncrasies might need to be aired yet again. It's a fine balance I guess, but the author's choice just edged me away from giving it top marks.
June 11, 2024
Labai labai patiko. Gal kiek per daug būtų knygą vadininti kriminaliniu trileriu, bet kad tai geras, stiprus detektyvas tai tikrai. Ypač smagu, kad tai bus serija apie aspergerio sindromą turintį detektyvą, tad būtinai skaitysiu ir kitas šios serijos dalis.
April 3, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed the gentle pace and persistent work of DS George Cross and his work partner DS Josie Ottey as they unravel a complex mystery. A young police staffer Alice Mackensie joins them and there is a time of adjustment. I became fully immersed in their work paying particular attention to how DS Cross interacts with all the people in his life as someone living with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
He and his team navigate a way to work effectively together. While DS Cross maybe awkward socially and appear abrupt to his colleagues, he has amazing insights into human nature and notes the subtle tells during interviews with suspects.
Narrator John Jeffernan's voice was delightful to listen to.
*Re-listening with Simon April 3, 2026.
He and his team navigate a way to work effectively together. While DS Cross maybe awkward socially and appear abrupt to his colleagues, he has amazing insights into human nature and notes the subtle tells during interviews with suspects.
Narrator John Jeffernan's voice was delightful to listen to.
*Re-listening with Simon April 3, 2026.
October 1, 2024
DS Cross has Asperger's, which makes him a really great character - and also makes him look at things slightly differently, making his clean up rate exceptional.
His colleagues are used to his idiosyncrasies, some actually finding them endearing, as did I.
His colleagues are used to his idiosyncrasies, some actually finding them endearing, as did I.
February 4, 2024
Now that I'm on Book #3 in this series I can safely say that this is one of the most fun/well done police procedurals I've ever read.
======
If you liked this series you might want to take a gander at : LYING AND DYING (Josef Slonský Investigations #1) by Graham Brack.
Not about a detective on the spectrum but the setting is in the Czech Republic and that adds a interesting flavor to the stories. Slonsky is a sarcastic, motivated detective that isn't always strictly ethical.
Currently available on KindleUnlimited for FREE.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
July 5, 2024
Ar man reikėjo dar vienos detektyvų serijos? Panašu, kad ne… Vis dėl to, Bristolio detektyvas Džordžas Krosas labai jau suviliojo. Visų pirma savo savitumais, kurie netgi padeda tirti bylas.
Randamas benamio lavonas su smurtinės mirties žymėmis. Greitai paaiškėja, kad du benamiai susipyko. Atrodo, viskas labai paprasta, tačiau detektyvui Krosui atrodo kitaip. Nepaisant vadovybės nepritarimui, jis tiria toliau benamio bylą ir paaiškėja daug įdomių faktų. Kroso metodiškumas ir dėmesys detalėms leidžia išaiškinti ne tik šią, bet ir praeities bylas.
“Dantistas” nėra tradicinis trileris, kur taškosi kraujai ir skraido žmonių kūno dalys. Tai priešprieša dabar madingam stiliui “kuo žiauriau ir šlykščiau”. Romanas kiek priminė Agatos Kristi stilių, kur svarbiausia yra dedukcija ir įkalčiai. Buvo įdomu, įtraukė, nors ir rašytojas nesišvaistė visokiaisi “plot twist” kas kelis puslapius. Tiesa, buvo vietelių, kur viskas apsisuko kardinaliai, bet jos visos labai apgalvotos ir logiškai išdėstytos.
Turbūt romanas netektų savo žavesio jei ne Džordžo Kroso savitumai. Jau suaugęs detektyvas sužinojo, kad jam Aspergerio sindromas, autizmo spektro sutrikimas esant aukštam intelektui. Iš šono jis atrodo grubus ir ne visad mandagus. Bet tiesiog Džordžas ne visad pagalvoja apie kitus. Jis turi griežtai laikytis taisyklių ir ritualų, kiekvienas nukrypimas kelia stresą. Nepaisant to, jis yra vienas geriausių detektyvų ir jau nusipelnęs pagarbą kolegų tarpe.
Detektyvas labai patiko. Visiškai kitoks ir nepanašus į kitus. Tikrai skaitysiu ir kitas serijos dalis - labai tikiuosi, kad leidykla vers ir išleis jas.
Randamas benamio lavonas su smurtinės mirties žymėmis. Greitai paaiškėja, kad du benamiai susipyko. Atrodo, viskas labai paprasta, tačiau detektyvui Krosui atrodo kitaip. Nepaisant vadovybės nepritarimui, jis tiria toliau benamio bylą ir paaiškėja daug įdomių faktų. Kroso metodiškumas ir dėmesys detalėms leidžia išaiškinti ne tik šią, bet ir praeities bylas.
“Dantistas” nėra tradicinis trileris, kur taškosi kraujai ir skraido žmonių kūno dalys. Tai priešprieša dabar madingam stiliui “kuo žiauriau ir šlykščiau”. Romanas kiek priminė Agatos Kristi stilių, kur svarbiausia yra dedukcija ir įkalčiai. Buvo įdomu, įtraukė, nors ir rašytojas nesišvaistė visokiaisi “plot twist” kas kelis puslapius. Tiesa, buvo vietelių, kur viskas apsisuko kardinaliai, bet jos visos labai apgalvotos ir logiškai išdėstytos.
Turbūt romanas netektų savo žavesio jei ne Džordžo Kroso savitumai. Jau suaugęs detektyvas sužinojo, kad jam Aspergerio sindromas, autizmo spektro sutrikimas esant aukštam intelektui. Iš šono jis atrodo grubus ir ne visad mandagus. Bet tiesiog Džordžas ne visad pagalvoja apie kitus. Jis turi griežtai laikytis taisyklių ir ritualų, kiekvienas nukrypimas kelia stresą. Nepaisant to, jis yra vienas geriausių detektyvų ir jau nusipelnęs pagarbą kolegų tarpe.
Detektyvas labai patiko. Visiškai kitoks ir nepanašus į kitus. Tikrai skaitysiu ir kitas serijos dalis - labai tikiuosi, kad leidykla vers ir išleis jas.
February 5, 2024
#perskaičiau
Tim Sullivan "Dantistas"
Kriminalinių trilerių pasaulyje sužibo nauja žvaigždė ir jo vardas - Džordžas Krosas!
Džordžas neabejotinai daugeliui pasirodys labai sudėtingo charakterio, tiesmukas, net gi šiurkštus, tačiau ne dėl to, kad jis jaučiasi geresnis už kitus, čia nėra jokio narcisizmo, Džordžas Krosas tiesiog taip supranta pasaulį, to priežąstis - Aspergerio sindromas,kurio lydimas Džordžas prisitaikė gyventi ir net gi dirbti policijoje. O, kaip man patiko Kroso personažas, išskirtinis, kitoks, bet begalo įdomus, būtent jo asmenybė šiam kūriniui suteikė kitoniškumo ir spalvos.
Iš trilerio dažniausiai tikiuosi labai daug įtampos, tamsos, painumo, tačiau šis kriminalinis trileris labiau orientuotas į tyrimą, ne į nusikaltimus, tad jeigu norisi žiaurumo, detalių aprašymų nusikaltimų metu teks nusivilti, čia detalės sutelkiamos į tyrimą, įtampa kuriama narpliojant bylą ir kūrinio ašis sukasi per Džordžo išskirtinį gebėjimą susitelkti į smulkmenas, taisykles, detales, įrodymus ir gebėjimą matyti žmones per savo suvokimo spektrą. Bet man to visiškai pakako 👌 Skyrius po skyriaus mėgavausi kiekviena nauja smulkmena tiek apie bylą, tiek apie Džordžą. Nors tai pirma serijos dalis ir atrodo veikėjai nauji, tačiau skaitant apima jausmas, kad jau pažįstami, labai lengvai susidraugavau su visa tyrėju komanda. Laikau 🤞, kad greitai sulauktumėm antros serijos knygos, nes man labai patinka Krosas ir jo pasaulis ❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Tim Sullivan "Dantistas"
Kriminalinių trilerių pasaulyje sužibo nauja žvaigždė ir jo vardas - Džordžas Krosas!
Džordžas neabejotinai daugeliui pasirodys labai sudėtingo charakterio, tiesmukas, net gi šiurkštus, tačiau ne dėl to, kad jis jaučiasi geresnis už kitus, čia nėra jokio narcisizmo, Džordžas Krosas tiesiog taip supranta pasaulį, to priežąstis - Aspergerio sindromas,kurio lydimas Džordžas prisitaikė gyventi ir net gi dirbti policijoje. O, kaip man patiko Kroso personažas, išskirtinis, kitoks, bet begalo įdomus, būtent jo asmenybė šiam kūriniui suteikė kitoniškumo ir spalvos.
Iš trilerio dažniausiai tikiuosi labai daug įtampos, tamsos, painumo, tačiau šis kriminalinis trileris labiau orientuotas į tyrimą, ne į nusikaltimus, tad jeigu norisi žiaurumo, detalių aprašymų nusikaltimų metu teks nusivilti, čia detalės sutelkiamos į tyrimą, įtampa kuriama narpliojant bylą ir kūrinio ašis sukasi per Džordžo išskirtinį gebėjimą susitelkti į smulkmenas, taisykles, detales, įrodymus ir gebėjimą matyti žmones per savo suvokimo spektrą. Bet man to visiškai pakako 👌 Skyrius po skyriaus mėgavausi kiekviena nauja smulkmena tiek apie bylą, tiek apie Džordžą. Nors tai pirma serijos dalis ir atrodo veikėjai nauji, tačiau skaitant apima jausmas, kad jau pažįstami, labai lengvai susidraugavau su visa tyrėju komanda. Laikau 🤞, kad greitai sulauktumėm antros serijos knygos, nes man labai patinka Krosas ir jo pasaulis ❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
August 9, 2020
Cross has Aspergers Syndrome and was fixated in the smaller details. But the way he solves the mystery using the very details, was very enjoyable to read.
Though the book was slow at times, overall, the multiple layers and the various characters and the way they were weaved together was enjoyable. Liked it.
Though the book was slow at times, overall, the multiple layers and the various characters and the way they were weaved together was enjoyable. Liked it.
October 22, 2025
Some time ago I received an invitation to read and review The Dentist, the first in this acclaimed series. And I loved it! Atlantic Crime published the first book in this series on October 21 2025 (it was originally published in 2020) and I sure hope the rest of the series will follow soon. Before this, I must admit that I’ve never come across this series but immediately after reading The Dentist I ordered The Bookseller, #7 in the series, published early 2025, and I’m thinking of ordering the omnibus with books 1-6.
Because Cross is on the Asperger spectrum, he often seems to think and do things in a very strange way, that is, for the people around him. Especially his boss at the police station, and his co-workers Josie Ottey and Alice Mackenzie. In some ways, Cross reminded me of Adrian Monk and Gregory House – no bad people, just people who see the world different. I especially liked the scenes where Cross is interviewing people. I think interviewing witnesses and/or suspects is very, very difficult (I like to watch true crime series) and I think the way Cross does this is very different but almost all times very efficient and effective.
Recommended to readers who like intricate police procedurals.
Thanks to Atlantic Crime and Edelweiss for this review copy.
Because Cross is on the Asperger spectrum, he often seems to think and do things in a very strange way, that is, for the people around him. Especially his boss at the police station, and his co-workers Josie Ottey and Alice Mackenzie. In some ways, Cross reminded me of Adrian Monk and Gregory House – no bad people, just people who see the world different. I especially liked the scenes where Cross is interviewing people. I think interviewing witnesses and/or suspects is very, very difficult (I like to watch true crime series) and I think the way Cross does this is very different but almost all times very efficient and effective.
Recommended to readers who like intricate police procedurals.
Thanks to Atlantic Crime and Edelweiss for this review copy.
March 12, 2024
Kas nors dar prisimena detektyvą Monką? Tą fainuolį, keistuolį dėl tvarkos ir tikslumo pamišusį tyrėją, kuris pastebėdavo visas keisčiausias detales, ištirdavo sudėtingiausias bylas, nors labiausiai ko bijodavo tai išsitepti rankas ar drabužius? Mano galva, tai vienas smagiausių detektyvinių serialų ever. Nesitikėjau, kad „Dantisto“ Džordžas Krosas man jį taip primins!
Tiesa, Krosas turi Aspergerio sindromą. Ir jei manot, kad detektyvo darbe jis kliudo - atvirkščiai. Jo dėka Krosas yra pats geriausias savo skyriuje: žmogus, kuriam dėl tobulai atliekamo darbo nuolaidžiauja net viršininkas. Džordžas pildo visus iki vieno dokumentus, net jei kolegos mano, kad tai laiko švaistymas, registruojasi eidama spro visas duris, kas irgi dažnam bendradarbiui tik nereikalinga procedūra, taisyklių laikosi nuo iki ir to reikalauja iš kitų. Nenuostabu, kad su juo dirbti nenori niekas: šalia minėtų dalykų, Krosas dar ir juokų ar perkeltinių prasmių nesupranta. Bet neišvengiamas vyro pastabumas ir atida detalėms lukštena vieną bylą po kitos. Šioje, pirmojoj serijos dalyje, jis nepatiki, jo rasta snužudytas benamis yra tiesiog gatvės kovų auka. Ima kapstytis giliau ir pateisina kikevieną savo dvejonę.
Smagiai skaitėsi. Puikus pasirinkimas mėgstantiems klasikinius detektyvus be žiaurumų ir Carteriško makabriškumo. Byla, daug įtariamųjų ir keistuolis Krosas, jungiantis pasiemetusias dėlionės dalis. Nėra čia kažkokių plot twisų, šokiruojančių netikėtumų ar skandinaviškos tamsos - paprastas, bet ne prastas detektyvas. Smagu, kad šią detektyvų seriją bus galima skaityti ne iš eilės - visos knygos - atskiros bylos. Jei patiko tokie kaip Frostas, Džentlis - patiks ir Krosas. Ir, žinoma, Monko fanai ras čia smagumą ir pažįstamų situacijų.
Tiesa, Krosas turi Aspergerio sindromą. Ir jei manot, kad detektyvo darbe jis kliudo - atvirkščiai. Jo dėka Krosas yra pats geriausias savo skyriuje: žmogus, kuriam dėl tobulai atliekamo darbo nuolaidžiauja net viršininkas. Džordžas pildo visus iki vieno dokumentus, net jei kolegos mano, kad tai laiko švaistymas, registruojasi eidama spro visas duris, kas irgi dažnam bendradarbiui tik nereikalinga procedūra, taisyklių laikosi nuo iki ir to reikalauja iš kitų. Nenuostabu, kad su juo dirbti nenori niekas: šalia minėtų dalykų, Krosas dar ir juokų ar perkeltinių prasmių nesupranta. Bet neišvengiamas vyro pastabumas ir atida detalėms lukštena vieną bylą po kitos. Šioje, pirmojoj serijos dalyje, jis nepatiki, jo rasta snužudytas benamis yra tiesiog gatvės kovų auka. Ima kapstytis giliau ir pateisina kikevieną savo dvejonę.
Smagiai skaitėsi. Puikus pasirinkimas mėgstantiems klasikinius detektyvus be žiaurumų ir Carteriško makabriškumo. Byla, daug įtariamųjų ir keistuolis Krosas, jungiantis pasiemetusias dėlionės dalis. Nėra čia kažkokių plot twisų, šokiruojančių netikėtumų ar skandinaviškos tamsos - paprastas, bet ne prastas detektyvas. Smagu, kad šią detektyvų seriją bus galima skaityti ne iš eilės - visos knygos - atskiros bylos. Jei patiko tokie kaip Frostas, Džentlis - patiks ir Krosas. Ir, žinoma, Monko fanai ras čia smagumą ir pažįstamų situacijų.
August 13, 2025
DS George Cross is a most unusual police officer. He is on the autism spectrum, and can't be bothered with niceties like politeness and socializing with colleagues. However, it appears that what others see as his oddities are really superpowers since his rate of solving crimes is excellent. A homeless man has just been found dead, and colleagues want to dismiss the case as another homeless on homeless crime. George looks deeper, and learns that the man had been a respected dentist who was obsessed with finding out who murdered his wife years ago. Could the family be involved? And what about the respected police officer who originally conducted the murder investigation? George's behavior is reminiscent of another careful and observant detective--Sherlock Holmes--I look forward to reading more about him and his cases. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
March 9, 2022
From other reviews here, this book is well liked, but it and I did not get along. The neverending focus on DS Cross having Asperger's and all his idiosyncrasies took away from the mystery of the crimes. I like a flawed detective as well as the next person, but this was just far too much. I was also able to solve the whodunnit and the why before halfway through the book.
August 24, 2025
My 8-year-old daughter has a lot in common with George Cross, the main character in
The Dentist
by Tim Sullivan. Never thought I would say that, but it is true. Both share an Asperger’s diagnosis, and both have a strong sense of justice and right and wrong. I may have just found her future career.
In this first DS Cross Mystery, Cross solves not one but two murders, separated by fifteen years. He does it in his trademark methodical way, showing just how capable neurodivergent people often are. No detail is overlooked, and it is fun to follow every careful step.
The cast is what really made this story for me. The main characters felt alive, quirky, and realistic, especially George and his father Raymond. Each showed growth as the book progressed, which kept me invested.
The case itself was compelling. I did figure it out before the reveal, but Sullivan paced the clues well, and I enjoyed the path to each discovery. For me, the pacing dragged a little in places, though that may be due to listening in audio rather than reading on the page.
Narration is by John Heffernan, and I would call his performance solid. His voice is pleasant, and I liked the accent, but I wished for more energy at certain points and in some character voices.
Overall, this is an intriguing police procedural with an excellent set of characters. George Cross is the kind of protagonist you cannot help but love by the end, though I admit my bias shows. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy procedurals and mysteries, and especially to those who appreciate a truly unique lead character.
In this first DS Cross Mystery, Cross solves not one but two murders, separated by fifteen years. He does it in his trademark methodical way, showing just how capable neurodivergent people often are. No detail is overlooked, and it is fun to follow every careful step.
The cast is what really made this story for me. The main characters felt alive, quirky, and realistic, especially George and his father Raymond. Each showed growth as the book progressed, which kept me invested.
The case itself was compelling. I did figure it out before the reveal, but Sullivan paced the clues well, and I enjoyed the path to each discovery. For me, the pacing dragged a little in places, though that may be due to listening in audio rather than reading on the page.
Narration is by John Heffernan, and I would call his performance solid. His voice is pleasant, and I liked the accent, but I wished for more energy at certain points and in some character voices.
Overall, this is an intriguing police procedural with an excellent set of characters. George Cross is the kind of protagonist you cannot help but love by the end, though I admit my bias shows. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy procedurals and mysteries, and especially to those who appreciate a truly unique lead character.
July 13, 2025
Der Fall um einen erdrosselten Obdachlosen rollt einen 15 Jahre alten Cold Case wieder auf. Detektive Cross, der am Asperger Sydrom leidet, ermittelt.
"Der Kriminalist" ist der erste Fall dieser Krimireihe aus Großbritannien.
Hier handelt es sich um akribische Polizeiarbeit, keinen spannungsgeladenen Thriller. Leider war mir nach der Hälfte des Buches schon klar, wie die Sache ausgeht und wer der Täter oder Täterin ist, was aber nicht unbedingt offensichtlich ist.
Nichtsdestotrotz, ein kluger und unterhaltsamer Krimi, der zügig zu lesen ist.
Dieser Roman wurde mir in einer Krimi-Buchhandlung ans Herz gelegt.
Eine weitere Empfehlung ist 1793 - einThriller.
"Der Kriminalist" ist der erste Fall dieser Krimireihe aus Großbritannien.
Hier handelt es sich um akribische Polizeiarbeit, keinen spannungsgeladenen Thriller. Leider war mir nach der Hälfte des Buches schon klar, wie die Sache ausgeht und wer der Täter oder Täterin ist, was aber nicht unbedingt offensichtlich ist.
Nichtsdestotrotz, ein kluger und unterhaltsamer Krimi, der zügig zu lesen ist.
Dieser Roman wurde mir in einer Krimi-Buchhandlung ans Herz gelegt.
Eine weitere Empfehlung ist 1793 - einThriller.
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