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DI Mike Nash #18
Dead or Alive
Detective Mike Nash thought that moving back to Yorkshire from London would give him a quieter life. Instead he finds a sleepy little town where nothing is what it seems . . .
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who knows exactly how to cover their tracks, leaving no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he fears the past will come back to bite him. These bodies are tied to a dark history of crime and betrayal, and a past case with more loose ends than Nash cares to remember.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who knows exactly how to cover their tracks, leaving no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he fears the past will come back to bite him. These bodies are tied to a dark history of crime and betrayal, and a past case with more loose ends than Nash cares to remember.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2025
702 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 11, 2025
DI Nash and his team are investigating some unexplained deaths, which turn out to be related to another series of crimes the team is working on. Assassins, stolen cars, faked deaths, and drugs are just the tip of the iceberg in this new case, but the team's dogged persistence will ensure that the villains get their comeuppance. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
April 15, 2025
Another great read from Bill Kitson!
That yearned for quiet life is just not going to happen for our beloved DI Nash.
What appears to be an isolated incident in an old hospital turns out to be so much more.
The team dynamics and the dark humour are what makes these books so readable. The pace is perfect, the ending is tied up neatly and we can't help wonder what on earth Kitson will come up with next. A solid 4 ⭐ from me.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC.
That yearned for quiet life is just not going to happen for our beloved DI Nash.
What appears to be an isolated incident in an old hospital turns out to be so much more.
The team dynamics and the dark humour are what makes these books so readable. The pace is perfect, the ending is tied up neatly and we can't help wonder what on earth Kitson will come up with next. A solid 4 ⭐ from me.
My thanks to Joffe Books for the ARC.
August 12, 2025
Dead or Alive is book 18 in the DI Mike Nash series by Bill Kitson. DI Mike Nash and his team caught a case of the death of two people in the mortuary of a hospital that closed its doors twenty years ago. To continue the confusion for the DI Mike Nash team, a third body was found; however, the DNA found on the body was that of someone who had died. The readers of Dead or Alive will continue to follow DI Mike Nash and his team to discover what happens.
I discovered this series while organising a series challenge for one of my groups, and I fell in love with it from the first book. I was thrilled to discover there is another addition to this excellent series. I love Bill Kitson's writing style, which always ensures that I engage with his characters and plots and Dead or Alive kept up the tradition. Reading Dead or Alive allows me to think about the problems law enforcement officers have when dealing with cold cases. At times, reading Dead or Alive, I had to laugh with the characters.
I love Bill Kitson's portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Dead or Alive is well-written and researched by Bill Kitson. I like Bill Kitson's description of the settings of Dead or Alive, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
I discovered this series while organising a series challenge for one of my groups, and I fell in love with it from the first book. I was thrilled to discover there is another addition to this excellent series. I love Bill Kitson's writing style, which always ensures that I engage with his characters and plots and Dead or Alive kept up the tradition. Reading Dead or Alive allows me to think about the problems law enforcement officers have when dealing with cold cases. At times, reading Dead or Alive, I had to laugh with the characters.
I love Bill Kitson's portrayal of his characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Dead or Alive is well-written and researched by Bill Kitson. I like Bill Kitson's description of the settings of Dead or Alive, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
May 28, 2025
Dead or Alive by Bill Kitson.
Di Mike Nash book 18.
This was a really good read. I liked the writing style and the story. I've only read 2 other books in this series. Im able to read them. I do like Nash character. I like how he is. Good pace, and I was able to keep reading until the last page.
Di Mike Nash book 18.
This was a really good read. I liked the writing style and the story. I've only read 2 other books in this series. Im able to read them. I do like Nash character. I like how he is. Good pace, and I was able to keep reading until the last page.
May 11, 2025
A very pleasant novel ! I enjoyed the straightforward way of writing as well as the plot letting you guessing up to the conclusion. The investigation team are a nice bunch of police officers whose family lives do not overwhelm the storyline. A lot of murders, many (police) subplots which do not alter the moods of the team making the whole novel somehow much lighter than could be expected! I loved their striving at making jokes... A great read!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
April 22, 2025
I am secretly in love with DI Nash and have been with him since his very first book/adventure.
It was through Audible that I found out about Bill Kitson's series. One of my favourite narrators is John Lee and I had just finished Alastair Reynolds' audiobook when I was looking for my next listen, and that is when What Lies Beneath popped up.
After having listened to that first audiobook I was hooked, and more followed soon after, and since then I always order the latest edition well in advance and without reading the blurb. The stories are rock solid and Bill Kitson is a master in creating red herrings in the story.
His strength lies in the fact that he adds seeming coincidences to the plot, a fisherman, a high end burglary, a wife who suspects her husband of adultery.
It’s Kitson who takes his readers on a crazy ride with twists and turns galore that only come together perfectly at the very end, taking you by surprise every time. .
The novel begins gruesomely, with the murder of two people who have failed to do their jobs properly. Not much later, a historic cottage hospital is on fire and two more bodies are found.
I loved the bantering between the team members and with ‘Mexican Pete’, the pathologist of the team. He also has his hands full in the novel, with the excessive number of victims.
I really liked the storyline of the pop group singer who is bailed out of prison by a total stranger, and enjoyed the various references to a few of my favourite tv series and songs: Jolene, Downton Abbey, Starsky & Hutch -(I had a childhood crush on the late David Soul, also loved him as a singer).
And along with finding out the identity of the two bodies from the cottage hospital, DI Nash is furthermore burdened with the break ins in posh country houses in the vicinity by “Donald Duck” and “MIckey Mouse.”
Oddly enough, the story never loses credibility or becomes contrived or over the top, rather keeps you on your toes, with unexpecting new storylines.
DI Nash is a bit of a background character in this story at first, too busy with his young daughter Lucy, but when it turns out that an old school friend of his has something to do with the case, he too becomes fanatically involved in the search. And why are so many people scared by the man known as The Keeper?
Another amazing story, with lots of red herrings.
Highly recommended. 5plus stars. Thank you Bill Kitson and Joffe Books for sharing. 🌷
It was through Audible that I found out about Bill Kitson's series. One of my favourite narrators is John Lee and I had just finished Alastair Reynolds' audiobook when I was looking for my next listen, and that is when What Lies Beneath popped up.
After having listened to that first audiobook I was hooked, and more followed soon after, and since then I always order the latest edition well in advance and without reading the blurb. The stories are rock solid and Bill Kitson is a master in creating red herrings in the story.
His strength lies in the fact that he adds seeming coincidences to the plot, a fisherman, a high end burglary, a wife who suspects her husband of adultery.
It’s Kitson who takes his readers on a crazy ride with twists and turns galore that only come together perfectly at the very end, taking you by surprise every time. .
The novel begins gruesomely, with the murder of two people who have failed to do their jobs properly. Not much later, a historic cottage hospital is on fire and two more bodies are found.
I loved the bantering between the team members and with ‘Mexican Pete’, the pathologist of the team. He also has his hands full in the novel, with the excessive number of victims.
I really liked the storyline of the pop group singer who is bailed out of prison by a total stranger, and enjoyed the various references to a few of my favourite tv series and songs: Jolene, Downton Abbey, Starsky & Hutch -(I had a childhood crush on the late David Soul, also loved him as a singer).
And along with finding out the identity of the two bodies from the cottage hospital, DI Nash is furthermore burdened with the break ins in posh country houses in the vicinity by “Donald Duck” and “MIckey Mouse.”
Oddly enough, the story never loses credibility or becomes contrived or over the top, rather keeps you on your toes, with unexpecting new storylines.
DI Nash is a bit of a background character in this story at first, too busy with his young daughter Lucy, but when it turns out that an old school friend of his has something to do with the case, he too becomes fanatically involved in the search. And why are so many people scared by the man known as The Keeper?
Another amazing story, with lots of red herrings.
Highly recommended. 5plus stars. Thank you Bill Kitson and Joffe Books for sharing. 🌷
May 8, 2025
This was the best Bill Kitson book that I have ever read. Once you start a Bill Kitson book they are unbelievable difficult to put down and I had great difficulty in closing this one also until I reached the exciting conclusion. The author has published seventeen previous stories in the DI Mike Nash series and I understand he also writes historical fiction and lighter stories set in Greece under the pen-name 'William Gordon'. I will certainly look out for them in the future.
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who knows exactly how to cover their tracks, leaving no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he fears the past will come back to bite him. These bodies are tied to a dark history of crime and betrayal, and a past case with more loose ends than Nash cares to remember.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
I love the great repartee between the various detectives involved on the case which reminds me of the 87th Precinct stories of the late author Ed McBain. I also read books by Michael Connelly, but if anything Bill Kitson’s stories are if anything more exciting than those of the American author. This marvellous writer should release his books in paperback as well as hardcover and Kindle as his truly excellent writing skills should get the largest reading public possible. His books are always very carefully researched and have irresistible gripping plots, that seamlessly weave themes of multi-dimensional crime, with excellent character back stories.
I thought this was a fantastic story with superb characterisation and there is a quote from a review in the Scarborough Evening News on one of his previous stories back cover saying "Don't read it on a bus, as you'll miss your stop" which I thought was wonderful. I do not read on buses but I stayed up until 3.35am one night because I just could not put it down!
Very well recommended.
Complimentary copy provided by netgalley.com for honest review
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who knows exactly how to cover their tracks, leaving no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he fears the past will come back to bite him. These bodies are tied to a dark history of crime and betrayal, and a past case with more loose ends than Nash cares to remember.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
I love the great repartee between the various detectives involved on the case which reminds me of the 87th Precinct stories of the late author Ed McBain. I also read books by Michael Connelly, but if anything Bill Kitson’s stories are if anything more exciting than those of the American author. This marvellous writer should release his books in paperback as well as hardcover and Kindle as his truly excellent writing skills should get the largest reading public possible. His books are always very carefully researched and have irresistible gripping plots, that seamlessly weave themes of multi-dimensional crime, with excellent character back stories.
I thought this was a fantastic story with superb characterisation and there is a quote from a review in the Scarborough Evening News on one of his previous stories back cover saying "Don't read it on a bus, as you'll miss your stop" which I thought was wonderful. I do not read on buses but I stayed up until 3.35am one night because I just could not put it down!
Very well recommended.
Complimentary copy provided by netgalley.com for honest review
May 27, 2025
Here is my review for Dead Or Alive by Bill Kitson
This seems to be a very intriguing crime read which I enjoyed immensely although I’m new to DI Mike Nash and the series. I got into the story as soon as I started reading it and found it very difficult to put down as I wanted to know what happened next. The story started off with two dead bodies locked away in an old, disused mortuary. They were found after a fire destroyed the place so badly, it had to be demolished. They were found in the basement of the hospital that had shut its doors approximately twenty years ago. This certainly turned out to be an interesting story and plot which I enjoyed reading. The characters had been well thought out and worked well with the story. The story was written extremely well and well thought out by the author. I liked the writing style of the author and the story was easy to get into. The synopsis drew me to read this story and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a terrific storyline. I really enjoyed meeting DI Mike Nash for the first time although this is book eighteen of the series. I would like to read the previous books but this may take me sometime to do but in the meantime I look forward to the next book of DI Mike Nash in this series.
Blurb :
Detective Mike Nash thought that moving back to Yorkshire from London would give him a quieter life. Instead he finds a sleepy little town where nothing is what it seems . . .
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who leaves no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he realizes the bodies are tied to a past case that haunts him to this very day.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
Discover the utterly stunning new thriller in Bill Kitson’s bestselling series, starring grumpy but loveable Detective Mike Nash.
This seems to be a very intriguing crime read which I enjoyed immensely although I’m new to DI Mike Nash and the series. I got into the story as soon as I started reading it and found it very difficult to put down as I wanted to know what happened next. The story started off with two dead bodies locked away in an old, disused mortuary. They were found after a fire destroyed the place so badly, it had to be demolished. They were found in the basement of the hospital that had shut its doors approximately twenty years ago. This certainly turned out to be an interesting story and plot which I enjoyed reading. The characters had been well thought out and worked well with the story. The story was written extremely well and well thought out by the author. I liked the writing style of the author and the story was easy to get into. The synopsis drew me to read this story and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a terrific storyline. I really enjoyed meeting DI Mike Nash for the first time although this is book eighteen of the series. I would like to read the previous books but this may take me sometime to do but in the meantime I look forward to the next book of DI Mike Nash in this series.
Blurb :
Detective Mike Nash thought that moving back to Yorkshire from London would give him a quieter life. Instead he finds a sleepy little town where nothing is what it seems . . .
Two dead bodies, locked in a disused mortuary. In the basement of a hospital that shut its doors over twenty years ago. The irony isn’t lost on veteran DI Mike Nash.
The victims have been shot in the head, execution style — by a consummate professional who leaves no evidence and no solid leads for Nash to go on.
The deeper Nash digs, the more he realizes the bodies are tied to a past case that haunts him to this very day.
It’s not long before a third body surfaces. This time the scene’s awash with DNA, belonging to a man who died decades ago.
Now Nash must face the chilling possibility that his oldest adversary is behind it all, watching and waiting to take his own brand of deadly vengeance . . .
Discover the utterly stunning new thriller in Bill Kitson’s bestselling series, starring grumpy but loveable Detective Mike Nash.
May 8, 2025
Action Packed, Unanticipated Conclusion.
Dead or Alive by Bill Kitson is an action-packed police procedural which starts with DI Mike Nash and his DS Clara Miranova being sent to investigate two decaying bodies found in what was the mortuary area of an abandoned hospital building. Mike has just returned from extended sick leave and had hoped to be able to take it easy. However, a series of new crimes which are apparently unrelated to the cold case in the deserted mortuary occur in quick succession, and the current cases soon overload the resources of Mike and his team. Their time is swamped by a string of confidence tricks cheating thousands of pounds from vulnerable older folk. A man is found shot to death in a canal boat that does not belong to him and there is no sign of the owner. Thefts occur all over the area of considerable volumes of different types of fuel. A large number of high-end cars are stolen from their owners’ homes.
The reader is led to believe that these crimes, including the cold case, are all linked – but Nash and Miranova are not convinced and must reach their own conclusions by solid detective work. Their investigations lead to a wide-ranging criminal enterprise which is run by a couple who employ many people to do their dirty work, and they callously kill any of their employees who fail in their mission.
I recommend this book as well-written with a fast-moving, engrossing plot. The reader does not want to put this book down but keep reading to discover who actually did what. There is lots of action throughout and a very surprising conclusion. The investigating team each have their own talents and are integral to the story, very relatable characters. This book definitely deserves Five Stars.
Dead or Alive by Bill Kitson is an action-packed police procedural which starts with DI Mike Nash and his DS Clara Miranova being sent to investigate two decaying bodies found in what was the mortuary area of an abandoned hospital building. Mike has just returned from extended sick leave and had hoped to be able to take it easy. However, a series of new crimes which are apparently unrelated to the cold case in the deserted mortuary occur in quick succession, and the current cases soon overload the resources of Mike and his team. Their time is swamped by a string of confidence tricks cheating thousands of pounds from vulnerable older folk. A man is found shot to death in a canal boat that does not belong to him and there is no sign of the owner. Thefts occur all over the area of considerable volumes of different types of fuel. A large number of high-end cars are stolen from their owners’ homes.
The reader is led to believe that these crimes, including the cold case, are all linked – but Nash and Miranova are not convinced and must reach their own conclusions by solid detective work. Their investigations lead to a wide-ranging criminal enterprise which is run by a couple who employ many people to do their dirty work, and they callously kill any of their employees who fail in their mission.
I recommend this book as well-written with a fast-moving, engrossing plot. The reader does not want to put this book down but keep reading to discover who actually did what. There is lots of action throughout and a very surprising conclusion. The investigating team each have their own talents and are integral to the story, very relatable characters. This book definitely deserves Five Stars.
June 1, 2025
My first introduction to DI Mike Nash, and what a gripping read it turned out to be! Although this is the 18th book in the series, I had no trouble following the story.
The book opens with a chilling discovery—two decaying bodies found in the abandoned mortuary of a former hospital. DI Nash, just returning from extended leave, hopes to ease back into work, but that plan quickly falls apart as more crimes unfold.
Nash and his team find themselves overwhelmed with cases that seem to be unconnected. But as they dig deeper, disturbing links start to emerge, leading them toward an intricate and ruthless criminal enterprise.
I loved how fast-paced and layered the story was. Every crime added another piece to the puzzle, and the tension built steadily as Nash and his team worked through leads. The twists kept me engaged.
The characters were another highlight. Nash is sharp, experienced, and full of wit, making him an easy protagonist to follow. His interactions with Clara and the rest of the team were real and good to read.
The Yorkshire setting was also beautifully described.
With action, mystery, and a web of crimes that kept me guessing, Dead or Alive was a brilliant police procedural that I couldn’t put down. I’m definitely diving into more of this series, starting from the first book.
The book opens with a chilling discovery—two decaying bodies found in the abandoned mortuary of a former hospital. DI Nash, just returning from extended leave, hopes to ease back into work, but that plan quickly falls apart as more crimes unfold.
Nash and his team find themselves overwhelmed with cases that seem to be unconnected. But as they dig deeper, disturbing links start to emerge, leading them toward an intricate and ruthless criminal enterprise.
I loved how fast-paced and layered the story was. Every crime added another piece to the puzzle, and the tension built steadily as Nash and his team worked through leads. The twists kept me engaged.
The characters were another highlight. Nash is sharp, experienced, and full of wit, making him an easy protagonist to follow. His interactions with Clara and the rest of the team were real and good to read.
The Yorkshire setting was also beautifully described.
With action, mystery, and a web of crimes that kept me guessing, Dead or Alive was a brilliant police procedural that I couldn’t put down. I’m definitely diving into more of this series, starting from the first book.
May 12, 2025
A staged murder and the discovery of two corpses in the mortuary of a former hospital lead back to a ruthless gang leader and a spate of historical unsolved executions. Soon pathologist Mexican Pete is up to his knees in bodies, thanks to the new cases being investigated by DI Mike Nash and his team of DS Clara Mironova, DC Viv Pearce and DC Adil Hassan (DC Lisa Andrews still being away on maternity leave) at Helmsdale CID in Yorkshire, as a hitman gets hit and an old face emerges with another staggering link to the cases where the dead just won’t stay dead. But who is the mastermind behind all these baffling crimes and will the detectives ever find enough evidence to pin him down?
There are some great additional side plots, some relevant to the main one and some self-contained, in this excellent solid yet twisty police procedural mixed with plenty of warmth and humour. It features a very likeable team of detectives and officers all bringing their own individual skills to the investigation. I loved the witty repartee between the characters especially that of Nash with both Clara and Mexican Pete. It was thoroughly enjoyable from start to the very satisfying ending and I’d recommend the entire series.
There are some great additional side plots, some relevant to the main one and some self-contained, in this excellent solid yet twisty police procedural mixed with plenty of warmth and humour. It features a very likeable team of detectives and officers all bringing their own individual skills to the investigation. I loved the witty repartee between the characters especially that of Nash with both Clara and Mexican Pete. It was thoroughly enjoyable from start to the very satisfying ending and I’d recommend the entire series.
April 22, 2025
"Dead Or Alive" is a police detective mystery. It's the 18th book in a series and ties up loose ends from a previous mystery, but it can be understood even if you haven't read any of the other books (like me). Nash heads a team of detectives, and they solve a series of crimes (thefts of oil, cars, jewelry) while working on several murders that appear to be linked. The story focused mostly on the investigation (asking questions, following up leads, etc.) rather than on developing the characters or the setting. There were some scenes from the point-of-view of the bad guys, so the reader has more idea of what's going on than the detectives. It's not really a puzzle for the reader, just reading to discover how Nash and his team will solve the crimes.
There was a minor amount of bad language. There were no sex scenes (though there were several references to couples sharing a bed or finding comfort in each other). Overall, I'd recommend this mystery to fans of action-focused detective mysteries.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
There was a minor amount of bad language. There were no sex scenes (though there were several references to couples sharing a bed or finding comfort in each other). Overall, I'd recommend this mystery to fans of action-focused detective mysteries.
I received a free ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 25, 2025
Looking for a nail biter to read this summer. Look no further than this one. It starts off with lovers plotting their “murders” so they can disappear. These two are not planning on a quiet retirement. They begin a crime wave that transcends several genres. If it makes lots of money, they do it. In fact when Mike Nash is confronted with an increases in crimes, including murder, only he is able to pull all the pieces together to figure out there is one mastermind called the Keeper and he makes a habit of eliminating anyone he thinks might know something about him or might spill the beans about his empire. The pathologist jokes with Mike that he is getting into record level with the body count. Mike is determined to find this villain and put a stop to all the carnage.
He discovers along the way someone he knew might be on the run from this evil person. The only issue is his friend must be a ghost. There are so many webs that are spinning and when it all comes together, it forms an elegant and thrilling story. The characters are great and the plot twists are fascinating. Five purrs and two paws up. Way up!
He discovers along the way someone he knew might be on the run from this evil person. The only issue is his friend must be a ghost. There are so many webs that are spinning and when it all comes together, it forms an elegant and thrilling story. The characters are great and the plot twists are fascinating. Five purrs and two paws up. Way up!
May 14, 2025
This was a really good and gripping read. I struggled to put this one down! I enjoyed the concept and there is nothing like a good police procedural!
The story was very well written and it flowes beautifully. The book's descriptions helped add to the suspense and mystery throughout. There were also some lovely visuals of Yorkshire!
The characterisation was on point. They all worked in their roles within the story which also helped make this an enjoyable read. Mike was great. He was smart, funny, dedicated and extremely good at what he did. Clara was a great character too, her reactions to the daft jokes and puns were fantastic. Viv and Adil were great guys and also fun to read about!
The story was written in third person and written from multiple POVs including Mike's. This was very well done as it's not always east to write with so many perspectives.
I really recommend this. British crime thrillers are definitely among my favourite reads. If you enjoy the genre, you will like this too.
The story was very well written and it flowes beautifully. The book's descriptions helped add to the suspense and mystery throughout. There were also some lovely visuals of Yorkshire!
The characterisation was on point. They all worked in their roles within the story which also helped make this an enjoyable read. Mike was great. He was smart, funny, dedicated and extremely good at what he did. Clara was a great character too, her reactions to the daft jokes and puns were fantastic. Viv and Adil were great guys and also fun to read about!
The story was written in third person and written from multiple POVs including Mike's. This was very well done as it's not always east to write with so many perspectives.
I really recommend this. British crime thrillers are definitely among my favourite reads. If you enjoy the genre, you will like this too.
May 7, 2025
Dead or Alive by Bill Kitson is a gripping entry in the crime thriller genre that hits the ground running and doesn’t let up. With an action-packed narrative and a pulse-pounding chase led by a determined team of detectives, Kitson crafts a high-stakes manhunt for a dangerously elusive couple.
The novel excels in both pace and plotting, with a storyline that steadily builds tension while keeping readers fully engaged. Kitson’s strength lies in his ability to balance plot-driven suspense with meaningful character development. The detectives at the heart of the story are not just procedural tools, but fully realized individuals with depth and humanity.
As the mystery unfolds, the stakes rise—and so does the reader’s investment. The sharp dialogue and well-timed reveals make for a thriller that is not only entertaining but intelligently crafted. Dead or Alive delivers on every front, making it a standout addition to the series and a promising indicator of what’s still to come.
The novel excels in both pace and plotting, with a storyline that steadily builds tension while keeping readers fully engaged. Kitson’s strength lies in his ability to balance plot-driven suspense with meaningful character development. The detectives at the heart of the story are not just procedural tools, but fully realized individuals with depth and humanity.
As the mystery unfolds, the stakes rise—and so does the reader’s investment. The sharp dialogue and well-timed reveals make for a thriller that is not only entertaining but intelligently crafted. Dead or Alive delivers on every front, making it a standout addition to the series and a promising indicator of what’s still to come.
June 11, 2025
DI Nash has lots of crimes to investigate! Murders, theft, burglary, shootings, fires. It becomes clear as the cases develop that there are some connections...
Dead or Alive is the 18th book in the Mike Nash series of police procedurals set in Yorkshire. There are no spoilers about previous books in the series.
A fire in an abandoned building reveals two bodies. A released prisoner is on the run, being chased by an assassin. Car thefts and faked deaths complete the complex web of crimes that Mike and his team have to investigate.
I enjoyed the easy to read narrative style and the banter between the police characters. All the crimes seem separate to start with which was a little confusing but then Mike starts to see a link. The book is quite short but feels authentic as the police have good work-life balance (Mike even has a couple of days off but this doesn't interfere with the case unlike so many TV dramas).
Dead or Alive is an entertaining police procedural.
Dead or Alive is the 18th book in the Mike Nash series of police procedurals set in Yorkshire. There are no spoilers about previous books in the series.
A fire in an abandoned building reveals two bodies. A released prisoner is on the run, being chased by an assassin. Car thefts and faked deaths complete the complex web of crimes that Mike and his team have to investigate.
I enjoyed the easy to read narrative style and the banter between the police characters. All the crimes seem separate to start with which was a little confusing but then Mike starts to see a link. The book is quite short but feels authentic as the police have good work-life balance (Mike even has a couple of days off but this doesn't interfere with the case unlike so many TV dramas).
Dead or Alive is an entertaining police procedural.
May 13, 2025
This is the first book that I have read by this author and although this is part of a long running series, I read this as a standalone and don't feel like I missed anything by doing so, however, it has also made me want to go and read the rest of the series now, so will be adding more to my never ending TBR.
The book is well written with a compelling story line which really hooked me in and engaged all the way through. The characters are well developed and I found myself really liking all of them especially Mike.
I loved the banter and dark humour in this book and I found myself laughing out loud at times, I know people that are in the police force and the humour in this reminded me very much of them and so it was relatable.
I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more by the author
The book is well written with a compelling story line which really hooked me in and engaged all the way through. The characters are well developed and I found myself really liking all of them especially Mike.
I loved the banter and dark humour in this book and I found myself laughing out loud at times, I know people that are in the police force and the humour in this reminded me very much of them and so it was relatable.
I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more by the author
May 3, 2025
This was another riveting read in the series. Mike and the team investigate the discovery of two bodies in an old hospital which has links to past crimes. They are also busy with current ongoing criminal activities in the rural area.
Without giving too much away, I felt the title of the book was very apt. The story itself is complex and although I was a bit confused with what was going on at the beginning, that soon disappeared as the story progressed. I quite enjoy how Mike's train of thought and insights are often linked to everyday little things. I highly recommend this and despite being a lengthy series, there is no staleness evident at all here.
Without giving too much away, I felt the title of the book was very apt. The story itself is complex and although I was a bit confused with what was going on at the beginning, that soon disappeared as the story progressed. I quite enjoy how Mike's train of thought and insights are often linked to everyday little things. I highly recommend this and despite being a lengthy series, there is no staleness evident at all here.
May 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for the eARC of this book, the 18th in the DI Mike Nash series by Bill Knox.
A fire in a rundown, vacant hospital leads to the discovery of not one, but two bodies. Both bear the hallmarks of a contract killer. In addition to a paid killer working on their patch, Mike's team are also dealing with a variety of thefts that have plagued the area.
It's an excellent series. Well written, fast paced, with likeable characters and a touch of humour to break up the action. It can be read as a stand alone, but the series is binge worthy, so here's a great series to start your summer reading.
A fire in a rundown, vacant hospital leads to the discovery of not one, but two bodies. Both bear the hallmarks of a contract killer. In addition to a paid killer working on their patch, Mike's team are also dealing with a variety of thefts that have plagued the area.
It's an excellent series. Well written, fast paced, with likeable characters and a touch of humour to break up the action. It can be read as a stand alone, but the series is binge worthy, so here's a great series to start your summer reading.
May 8, 2025
First off, I really love this series. The Yorkshire setting, the engaging characters, and intricate and interesting plots always keep me reading. I particularly enjoy the interaction of the officers in the police station; each new book makes me feel like I’m reuniting with old friends. In Dead or Alive some routine cases are solved but also a case that has long deviled the team is finally brought to a satisfying conclusion. Would definitely recommend this book and this series to anyone who enjoys police procedurals, but read the series in order to follow relationships as well as some cases that continue from book to book.
May 8, 2025
I’ve quite enjoyed the book, it started off well and I liked the various stories slowly coming together. For a book so far down a series, it didn’t lose much steam which is quite impressive. I did not feel invested in the main characters though hence the rating.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Joffe books who published it for the free copy in exchange for an ‘honest review’. I did not appreciate being contacted by the publisher however asking me not to review this book below 3 stars in the publishing week. It did not impact my review as the author is not to blame but it is of a significant concern to me.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Joffe books who published it for the free copy in exchange for an ‘honest review’. I did not appreciate being contacted by the publisher however asking me not to review this book below 3 stars in the publishing week. It did not impact my review as the author is not to blame but it is of a significant concern to me.
May 10, 2025
This is my first introduction to D I Mike Nash ,was great as a standalone but is actually 18th in this series. I'm now so keen to find out more about the great characters in this that im going to start at book 1 .
Bodies are discovered in a derelict mortuary during demolition, thereby starts tale with more twists & turns than spaghetti junction, the body count grows 2 supposedly deceased couples ,one good and 1 evil, appear to return from the grave. D I Nash has his work cut out to connect the threads and weave them into the truth of events going back 30 years .
Excellent murder mystery/police procedural.
Highly recommend it.
Bodies are discovered in a derelict mortuary during demolition, thereby starts tale with more twists & turns than spaghetti junction, the body count grows 2 supposedly deceased couples ,one good and 1 evil, appear to return from the grave. D I Nash has his work cut out to connect the threads and weave them into the truth of events going back 30 years .
Excellent murder mystery/police procedural.
Highly recommend it.
May 11, 2025
Another great book in this series. The best part of these books are the team. They are a likeable group of police officers whose family lives are nicely intertwined into the story. In this one we have a lot of murders and burglaries car thefts and every other crime you can image all with the same top man simply known as the keeper. Its a great read but it does bounce about a bit from different peoples view point and this can take a bit to get used to and to keep up with who's view point you are seeing at any one time. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
This was my first book by Bill Kitson but definitely will not be my last. This book packed a whopping punch that left me reeling especially as I reached the conclusion. The book had a lot of dark humor and the police officers working together were very well developed and well written. Two bodies found in an abandoned mortuary but there's more to the story and it will leave you wondering how it all ties together. I started and finished this in one day because I was so deeply invested in the story featuring DI Mike Nash and DS Clara Miranova. This was book #18 in the series and I cannot wait to read all his other books!
May 17, 2025
My goodness, this is book 18 in the series and I’m wondering how I have not read any before!
This book was awesome, so fast paced I was left desperately wanting to read more to find out how the story was going to end.
Mike Nash is a great character the banter he has with colleagues really made me smile.
A cleverly written plot and storyline escalated through the book with a very satisfying ending.
I will be adding the series to my list to work though.
Thank you @zooloosbooktours @joffebooks and @billkitsonauthor for having me on the tour and for a copy of the ebook
#deadoralive #dinesh #ebookreview #bookstagram #lisareadsalot #crimethriller
April 12, 2025
Detective Mike Nash and his team find that the dead bodies found in a disused mortuary are linked to a host of other crimes. And deaths.
This is the first book I have read by Bill Kitson. I wish I had started the series from the beginning.
The plot is excellent and the police investigation good, and while I found the dialogue a bit dry and lacking a bit of 'personality', I did like the puns.
I do recommend this for people who have read the whole series, but having joined the game a little late, I am afraid that FOR ME, this didn't quite grab my attention.
This is the first book I have read by Bill Kitson. I wish I had started the series from the beginning.
The plot is excellent and the police investigation good, and while I found the dialogue a bit dry and lacking a bit of 'personality', I did like the puns.
I do recommend this for people who have read the whole series, but having joined the game a little late, I am afraid that FOR ME, this didn't quite grab my attention.
May 8, 2025
A Good Book
DI Mike Nash moved from London back to Yorkshire for a quieter life bur he seems to be busier than ever. Two bodies are found in the mortuary of a disused hospital, it looks like an execution. As the team investigate more bodies are found and Mike is concerned they relate to an unsolved case from years ago. As ever, he is under pressure to resolve the case as quickly as possible. I haven't read the whole of the series, but I was able to keep up with the happenings. Must go back and read the ones I have missed.
DI Mike Nash moved from London back to Yorkshire for a quieter life bur he seems to be busier than ever. Two bodies are found in the mortuary of a disused hospital, it looks like an execution. As the team investigate more bodies are found and Mike is concerned they relate to an unsolved case from years ago. As ever, he is under pressure to resolve the case as quickly as possible. I haven't read the whole of the series, but I was able to keep up with the happenings. Must go back and read the ones I have missed.
May 8, 2025
Two bodies in the morgue of a long abandoned hospital, swindled pensioners, fuel thefts, a scarecrow with gunshot wounds, a body on a canal boat… they all add up to an intriguing mystery. Book eighteen in the DI Mike Nash series is a fast paced cross between a police procedural and a cosy murder mystery. Full of twists and turns, it is at times confusing, but over all, it’s not a bad read. I haven’t read any previous books in this series but that was no problem, as it holds up well as a standalone story.
May 8, 2025
A good book. The story begins when two bodies are found in a disused mortuary after a fire has been extinguished. Meanwhile a woman has a visitor whilst she is serving a sentence for murder. She gets a get out of jail free card which she will use to get her revenge. The cases come together when it seems the Detectives investigating the murder and her own case are linked. As the body count rises. Will they come together to catch whoever is involved in meddling in so many lives. It was a good read but there is quite a lot to it.
December 18, 2025
A good read
I always enjoy books by this author. Compelling and creative. A complex storyline, having so many murders past and present it was hard work to follow, especially with all the character names and aliases is was easy to get lost. Plenty of threads, twist and turns which I find fascinating.
Never a dull moment throughout the chapters. 'Family man' Mike Nash (as he has now become) is quite an endearing character but still as ruthless and sharp as a blade.
A very entertaining read.
I always enjoy books by this author. Compelling and creative. A complex storyline, having so many murders past and present it was hard work to follow, especially with all the character names and aliases is was easy to get lost. Plenty of threads, twist and turns which I find fascinating.
Never a dull moment throughout the chapters. 'Family man' Mike Nash (as he has now become) is quite an endearing character but still as ruthless and sharp as a blade.
A very entertaining read.
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