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DS Sue Willmott #3
Against the Tide
Not yet published
Expected 22 Sep 26PRAISE FOR G. D. WRIGHT
'So compelling and tightly plotted I couldn't put it down' CLAIRE DOUGLAS
'Tense and emotional… A dark beating heart of a novel' GILLIAN McALLISTER
‘One of the most tense and gripping thrillers I've read in ages’ LISA JEWELL
If the truth could destroy you, would you choose to know it? DC Vinny Robson has spent his career seeking justice for others, but when an elderly couple are violently murdered in his hometown of Beachbrook, the investigation takes a devastating turn – one that cuts straight through his own family.
With the help of DS Sue Wilmott, Vinny discovers his ailing mother’s forgotten diaries, and with them the secrets she fought to keep hidden her entire life.
As Vinny dives deeper, the case becomes more than a pursuit of a killer – it’s a fight against the undertow of his own past. But in chasing the truth, will he finally find justice, or will he drown in the wreckage of everything he thought he knew?
Some truths should stay submerged. But once the tide turns, there’s no stopping what comes to light.
An emotional crime drama novel set on the south coast of England, perfect for for fans of Karin Slaughter, Gillian McAllister and Ann Cleeves.
'So compelling and tightly plotted I couldn't put it down' CLAIRE DOUGLAS
'Tense and emotional… A dark beating heart of a novel' GILLIAN McALLISTER
‘One of the most tense and gripping thrillers I've read in ages’ LISA JEWELL
If the truth could destroy you, would you choose to know it? DC Vinny Robson has spent his career seeking justice for others, but when an elderly couple are violently murdered in his hometown of Beachbrook, the investigation takes a devastating turn – one that cuts straight through his own family.
With the help of DS Sue Wilmott, Vinny discovers his ailing mother’s forgotten diaries, and with them the secrets she fought to keep hidden her entire life.
As Vinny dives deeper, the case becomes more than a pursuit of a killer – it’s a fight against the undertow of his own past. But in chasing the truth, will he finally find justice, or will he drown in the wreckage of everything he thought he knew?
Some truths should stay submerged. But once the tide turns, there’s no stopping what comes to light.
An emotional crime drama novel set on the south coast of England, perfect for for fans of Karin Slaughter, Gillian McAllister and Ann Cleeves.
416 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 22, 2026
About the author
G.D. Wright
4 books82 followersMy name is Gary (pen name G.D. Wright) and I live in Kent with my wife and two young children.
I joined Kent Police at the age of 18, working on the front line in a variety of uniformed roles until the age of 29 when, completely out of the blue, I suffered two cardiac ‘events’, and was subsequently diagnosed with a hereditary and incurable disease of the heart (arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy if you’re being fussy!). As a result, I had an internal defibrillator implanted in me, and I had to retire from the police aged 30.
One door closed, but another opened, and my wife and I bought a coffee shop in Ramsgate Harbour. We spent eight of the happiest years of our lives there but, when the kiddies came along, it just wasn’t sustainable. Family comes first, every single time (a theme in my books…), and the simple fact was that we knew our summers should be spent with the kids, not working seven days a week. In 2022, we sold the coffee shop, and I took to writing full time.
I signed a two book deal with Avon UK (part of the Harper Collins family), and my debut was released in August 2024. It’s called AFTER THE STORM, and it’s a police procedural with a twisty, emotional hook. Next up was INTO THE FIRE, released in June 2025. I've signed another two books with Avon, set for release in 2026 and 2027.
I’m always up for chatting, so find me on my socials and I’ll happily answer any questions you might have!
I joined Kent Police at the age of 18, working on the front line in a variety of uniformed roles until the age of 29 when, completely out of the blue, I suffered two cardiac ‘events’, and was subsequently diagnosed with a hereditary and incurable disease of the heart (arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy if you’re being fussy!). As a result, I had an internal defibrillator implanted in me, and I had to retire from the police aged 30.
One door closed, but another opened, and my wife and I bought a coffee shop in Ramsgate Harbour. We spent eight of the happiest years of our lives there but, when the kiddies came along, it just wasn’t sustainable. Family comes first, every single time (a theme in my books…), and the simple fact was that we knew our summers should be spent with the kids, not working seven days a week. In 2022, we sold the coffee shop, and I took to writing full time.
I signed a two book deal with Avon UK (part of the Harper Collins family), and my debut was released in August 2024. It’s called AFTER THE STORM, and it’s a police procedural with a twisty, emotional hook. Next up was INTO THE FIRE, released in June 2025. I've signed another two books with Avon, set for release in 2026 and 2027.
I’m always up for chatting, so find me on my socials and I’ll happily answer any questions you might have!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 10, 2026
I really enjoyed this one, G.D Wright managed to get me emotionally wrecked with a perfectly crafted storyline and layered characters. I absolutely would recommend.
So grateful I got an ARC copy! Brilliant.
So grateful I got an ARC copy! Brilliant.
August 25, 2026
I LOVE a thriller with emotional depth, and Against the Tide absolutely delivered. This was a twisty & enthralling police procedural, but underneath the investigation was a story with so much heart that genuinely got me right in the feels.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline, with the present-day investigation woven together with Mary’s diary entries from the past. Family secrets, buried trauma, grief & guilt are layered throughout, with the pieces gradually coming together as more of Vinny’s family history is revealed. I loved that the emotional side became just as compelling as the crime itself.
Vinny was easily the standout for me. Between the investigation and everything happening with his mum, there was A LOT resting on his shoulders, and watching those parts of his life begin to collide gave this so much more depth than your standard police procedural. Mary’s dementia storyline in particular really got me.
Admittedly, this was my first G.D. Wright despite already having the first book in the series on my shelf. It absolutely works as a standalone, but clearly I LOVED this one, so I’ll be heading back to Beachbrook and reading the series from the beginning.
Twisty crime WITH heart. An easy 5⭐️.
I really enjoyed the dual timeline, with the present-day investigation woven together with Mary’s diary entries from the past. Family secrets, buried trauma, grief & guilt are layered throughout, with the pieces gradually coming together as more of Vinny’s family history is revealed. I loved that the emotional side became just as compelling as the crime itself.
Vinny was easily the standout for me. Between the investigation and everything happening with his mum, there was A LOT resting on his shoulders, and watching those parts of his life begin to collide gave this so much more depth than your standard police procedural. Mary’s dementia storyline in particular really got me.
Admittedly, this was my first G.D. Wright despite already having the first book in the series on my shelf. It absolutely works as a standalone, but clearly I LOVED this one, so I’ll be heading back to Beachbrook and reading the series from the beginning.
Twisty crime WITH heart. An easy 5⭐️.
May 25, 2026
If the truth could destroy you, would you choose to know it? DC Vinny Robson has spent his career seeking justice for others, but when an elderly couple are violently murdered in his hometown of Beachbrook, the investigation takes a devastating turn – one that cuts straight through his own family. As Vinny dives deeper, the case becomes more than a pursuit of a killer – it’s a fight against the undertow of his own past. But in chasing the truth, will he finally find justice, or will he drown in the wreckage of everything he thought he knew? Some truths should stay submerged. But once the tide turns, there’s no stopping what comes to light.
Without any doubt I cannot fault Gary’s writing, his ability to completely captivate the reader throughout is just utter perfection. The combination of a police procedural with all the twists and turns of a thriller ensures your attention is gripped from the very first page. I purposely dedicated time over the last Bank Holiday weekend to ensure I could absorb every detail and I devoured in less than 24 hours, the pure definition of a book you literally can’t put down.
I think this is a series that just keeps getting better and better, and whilst all three books can be read as standalones, reading them together definitely gives further background to the characters, I specifically enjoyed learning more about DS Sue Willmott in this title and the reader connection is maintained with the steady pace. DC Robson’s journey of dealing with the dementia diagnosis of his mother was also really beautifully described, highlighting the emotional side of our much-loved characters even more.
I loved the direction this book took and, the serious issues raised and discussed, were all handled with the sensitivity they deserve, clearly demonstrating the author’s background research and knowledge to ensure this was portrayed as it should. And as for that final chapter? Bravo Gary, this was executed perfectly and I literally gasped out loud as I read those concluding lines. So now my only question is, when is the next one coming?😉
I laughed, I cried, my heart rate raced, and I adored every single word of this emotional rollercoaster of a book. A big fat yes in recommending this one, so grab your copy today (as well as After The Storm and Into The Fire!, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Without any doubt I cannot fault Gary’s writing, his ability to completely captivate the reader throughout is just utter perfection. The combination of a police procedural with all the twists and turns of a thriller ensures your attention is gripped from the very first page. I purposely dedicated time over the last Bank Holiday weekend to ensure I could absorb every detail and I devoured in less than 24 hours, the pure definition of a book you literally can’t put down.
I think this is a series that just keeps getting better and better, and whilst all three books can be read as standalones, reading them together definitely gives further background to the characters, I specifically enjoyed learning more about DS Sue Willmott in this title and the reader connection is maintained with the steady pace. DC Robson’s journey of dealing with the dementia diagnosis of his mother was also really beautifully described, highlighting the emotional side of our much-loved characters even more.
I loved the direction this book took and, the serious issues raised and discussed, were all handled with the sensitivity they deserve, clearly demonstrating the author’s background research and knowledge to ensure this was portrayed as it should. And as for that final chapter? Bravo Gary, this was executed perfectly and I literally gasped out loud as I read those concluding lines. So now my only question is, when is the next one coming?😉
I laughed, I cried, my heart rate raced, and I adored every single word of this emotional rollercoaster of a book. A big fat yes in recommending this one, so grab your copy today (as well as After The Storm and Into The Fire!, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
June 14, 2026
When an elderly couple are violently murdered at home, DC Vinny Robson, alongside DS Sue Wilmott, investigate. But the investigation takes a devastating turn for Vinny, especially so when he finds his mother’s old diaries and discovers secrets she has fought to keep hidden. As Vinny digs deeper, the case becomes more than a hunt for a killer, but also a fight against the undertow of his past.
This is the third book in this series that gets a lot of hype and it gets this for a very good reason. This was another fantastically written thriller, that slowly engulfs you when reading. What the author does so well is create a lot of depth and adds in an emotional element, that can’t help but get under your skin. Not only that, but it also felt hugely authentic, as did the characters and their turmoil. I could really feel empathy whilst reading.
The police procedural element was also compelling and I was interested in seeing how the mystery would play out. There were some excellent twists and surprises, which really helped it all come together. This was a slow burn, sometimes overly slow, however it worked well in this instance to build the tension and backstory. Overall another good addition to this series and I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
This is the third book in this series that gets a lot of hype and it gets this for a very good reason. This was another fantastically written thriller, that slowly engulfs you when reading. What the author does so well is create a lot of depth and adds in an emotional element, that can’t help but get under your skin. Not only that, but it also felt hugely authentic, as did the characters and their turmoil. I could really feel empathy whilst reading.
The police procedural element was also compelling and I was interested in seeing how the mystery would play out. There were some excellent twists and surprises, which really helped it all come together. This was a slow burn, sometimes overly slow, however it worked well in this instance to build the tension and backstory. Overall another good addition to this series and I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
July 11, 2026
Against the Tide is a fast paced well plotted police procedural that is gripping from start to finish.
The pace is fast, the characters are so authenitc and you are hooked from the very first page.
The book has many twists and turns just like a country road that will have your pulse racing.
I was yelling at the book at one point.
There is a relentless mix of secrets, lies .
Everyone is a suspect and trying to guess is fruitless.
This was my first book of the series but I have certainly priortized the first two books.
Grab your copy and buckle up. Be warned you wont be able to put it down.
The pace is fast, the characters are so authenitc and you are hooked from the very first page.
The book has many twists and turns just like a country road that will have your pulse racing.
I was yelling at the book at one point.
There is a relentless mix of secrets, lies .
Everyone is a suspect and trying to guess is fruitless.
This was my first book of the series but I have certainly priortized the first two books.
Grab your copy and buckle up. Be warned you wont be able to put it down.
June 21, 2026
Ok, I actually have no words to that book. Especially the ending!! What the hell?!!! You absolutely smashed it Gaz, I LOVED it!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 1, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley for giving me this free advance copy, and I’m writing this review honestly and without bias.
Well it's a hat trick of 5 star reads from GD Wright as he has whacked the third instalment of his DS Willmot books right out of the park. This is a hard hitting and compelling story which centres around a brutal double murder running alongside a haunting plot of long ago secrets. DC Vinny Robson takes centre stage in this one as he finds his past turned on its head. The writing is sublime, the plot perfectly executed and the heartbreak and emotion is delivered in Gary's trademark way. When you think it's all over the author throws in one massive curveball - what an ending, left me breathless. An outstanding read
August 9, 2026
Gripping, suspenseful, tense and surprisingly emotional, Against The Tide is so much more than a crime thriller.
I’m really enjoying this series, but this book felt like something a little different. It pulled me in with the crime, but it was the emotional story underneath that really stayed with me.
When an elderly couple are brutally murdered, DC Vinny Robson is drawn into an investigation that soon becomes deeply personal. As secrets from his family’s past begin to surface, the case takes him into places he probably never expected to go.
The pacing is excellent, with the tension building as more pieces of the story are revealed. It’s suspenseful without feeling overdone, and there’s always that feeling that another secret is waiting just around the corner. I found myself constantly wondering what was coming next.
But what really made this book for me was Vinny.
Vinny’s relationship with his mum brought an unexpected emotional and gritty depth to the story for me. Her illness is one I’m all too familiar with, so those parts really hit home. I wasn’t expecting a crime thriller to stir up quite so much emotion, but the author handles it with such understanding, compassion and sympathy. As Vinny uncovers her old diaries and the painful truths hidden within them, his personal and professional worlds begin to collide, making this a story that stayed with me for reasons I wasn’t expecting. These weren’t just characters caught up in a crime; their history and relationships actually mattered.
I loved that balance between the tense, darker investigation and the quieter emotional moments. It made the story feel much more rounded and gave me a reason to care about what happened beyond simply finding out who was responsible.
And just when I thought I was starting to put everything together, the story had other ideas.
Against the Tide is gripping from beginning to end, but it’s the raw emotion, believable characters and darker, suspenseful storyline that made this one stand out for me. G.D. Wright has given me a crime thriller that kept me guessing, but also gave me characters I genuinely cared about.
Definitely one of my favourites in the series so far.
I’m really enjoying this series, but this book felt like something a little different. It pulled me in with the crime, but it was the emotional story underneath that really stayed with me.
When an elderly couple are brutally murdered, DC Vinny Robson is drawn into an investigation that soon becomes deeply personal. As secrets from his family’s past begin to surface, the case takes him into places he probably never expected to go.
The pacing is excellent, with the tension building as more pieces of the story are revealed. It’s suspenseful without feeling overdone, and there’s always that feeling that another secret is waiting just around the corner. I found myself constantly wondering what was coming next.
But what really made this book for me was Vinny.
Vinny’s relationship with his mum brought an unexpected emotional and gritty depth to the story for me. Her illness is one I’m all too familiar with, so those parts really hit home. I wasn’t expecting a crime thriller to stir up quite so much emotion, but the author handles it with such understanding, compassion and sympathy. As Vinny uncovers her old diaries and the painful truths hidden within them, his personal and professional worlds begin to collide, making this a story that stayed with me for reasons I wasn’t expecting. These weren’t just characters caught up in a crime; their history and relationships actually mattered.
I loved that balance between the tense, darker investigation and the quieter emotional moments. It made the story feel much more rounded and gave me a reason to care about what happened beyond simply finding out who was responsible.
And just when I thought I was starting to put everything together, the story had other ideas.
Against the Tide is gripping from beginning to end, but it’s the raw emotion, believable characters and darker, suspenseful storyline that made this one stand out for me. G.D. Wright has given me a crime thriller that kept me guessing, but also gave me characters I genuinely cared about.
Definitely one of my favourites in the series so far.
July 28, 2026
A cracking good read. Really like the use of different forms: narrative, change of poverty, diary, text message.
Just a good thrillerwith police procedural thrown in
Just a good thrillerwith police procedural thrown in
August 10, 2026
This was a slow start kind of book but I really enjoyed the 2nd half and was surprised throughout the whole 2nd half. Would have been 4 stars if it wasn’t so slow in the beginning
May 29, 2026
Against the Tide by G D Wright is his third book and sees the return of D S Sue Willmott.
This book is very much in the style of his two previous book, pacy, emotional, tense and a definite page turner.
Vinny works in D S Willmotts's team and finds himself as a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) to Natalie the daughter of an elderly couple who were brutally murdered in their own home. Vinny is very much a devoted son and visits his Mum every day in her care home as she has advanced dementia. What follows has twists and turns galore almost right up to the final page, I loved it, one of the best books I've read this year. I can't recommend this and G D Wright's previous two books highly enough.
This book is very much in the style of his two previous book, pacy, emotional, tense and a definite page turner.
Vinny works in D S Willmotts's team and finds himself as a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) to Natalie the daughter of an elderly couple who were brutally murdered in their own home. Vinny is very much a devoted son and visits his Mum every day in her care home as she has advanced dementia. What follows has twists and turns galore almost right up to the final page, I loved it, one of the best books I've read this year. I can't recommend this and G D Wright's previous two books highly enough.
June 17, 2026
You know you’re in safe hands with Gaz’s books and I have to say that I think Against the Tide is his best one yet! This is book 3 in a series but can easily be read as a standalone (however I do recommend going and reading the other 2 as they are excellent!)
This is a thriller with a lot of heart & may well reduce you to tears (it did me!) The characters are fantastic and you will become deeply invested in them.
You will have so much fun trying to work out what’s going on as the book slowly unfolds but I don’t think you’ll guess all the twists. I adore Gaz’s writing style and I found myself fully absorbed and desperate to turn the pages to find out what happened. I loved this one and it will stay with me for a long time due to all the emotion I felt while reading.
This is a thriller with a lot of heart & may well reduce you to tears (it did me!) The characters are fantastic and you will become deeply invested in them.
You will have so much fun trying to work out what’s going on as the book slowly unfolds but I don’t think you’ll guess all the twists. I adore Gaz’s writing style and I found myself fully absorbed and desperate to turn the pages to find out what happened. I loved this one and it will stay with me for a long time due to all the emotion I felt while reading.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When an elderly couple is found murdered at their home, DC Vinny Robinson's life as he knows it will come to a screeching halt. He just doesn't know it yet. Somehow, these victims are connected to his own family. The story alternates via chapters from the points-of-view from Vinny to Natalie, the daughter of the murder victims, and DS Wilmott.
Vinny's family is a closet full of skeletons. He really does end up facing the tide, fighting the undertow and trying not to drown from everything that's coming his way. There is absolutely no way you won't feel for this character. Especially if you have experience with people with dementia. The moments Vinny shares with his mother, Mary, hit hard sometimes.
Despite what the book description says, Vinny and his boss do not discover his mother's diaries until the latter part of the book, and it's entirely coincidental. But the reader does get glimpses into Mary's thoughts over the years, allowing us to try and piece together the puzzle of this mystery. I was on the right track for most of it but there were still a few reveals that felt like a punch to the stomach.
'Against The Tide' isn't always an easy story to read. Wright tackles a few difficult topics and I often found myself struggling with a lump in my throat. Some things are truly heartbreaking, but Wright never overdramatised or underplayed any of it. It all came across as realistic and believable. If I could have hugged Vinny and Natalie, I totally would have done so.
That said, I did have some niggles. Personally, I feel the story could have been a little shorter. There are parts towards the end that dragged a bit for me. I also thought that DS Wilmott's chapters were unnecessary and brought little, if anything, to the story. She seemed to just lament the fact that her job kept her away from her daughter, and functioned as some sort of emotional support for Vinny. Apart from that, I'm also stuck with the idea that one or two things - in hindsight - just didn't quite make sense to me.
'Against The Tide' shows, once again, that you just never know what goes on behind closed doors. And that, as children, we might have a skewed perspective of our parents, or their marriage, or even our own childhood. Both Natalie and Vinny are dealing with the loss of their parents, who were taken from them in very different ways.
I always say I don't appreciate it when my crime fiction is on the verge of making me shed a tear or two. But the truth is, I absolutely appreciate the depth, the insight, and the emotional impact authors like Wright can achieve. It's not just about solving a crime. It's about characters navigating a new reality and about living through the aftermath of something truly horrific. It undoubtedly makes for a compelling and absorbing read as it's near impossible not to become invested.
This was my first introduction to G.D Wright, even though I've had his previous book on my shelves for ages. It's a tad odd to use the word "enjoyed" considering the heavy topics, but I liked this one and this will definitely not be the last time I pick up a book by this author.
Vinny's family is a closet full of skeletons. He really does end up facing the tide, fighting the undertow and trying not to drown from everything that's coming his way. There is absolutely no way you won't feel for this character. Especially if you have experience with people with dementia. The moments Vinny shares with his mother, Mary, hit hard sometimes.
Despite what the book description says, Vinny and his boss do not discover his mother's diaries until the latter part of the book, and it's entirely coincidental. But the reader does get glimpses into Mary's thoughts over the years, allowing us to try and piece together the puzzle of this mystery. I was on the right track for most of it but there were still a few reveals that felt like a punch to the stomach.
'Against The Tide' isn't always an easy story to read. Wright tackles a few difficult topics and I often found myself struggling with a lump in my throat. Some things are truly heartbreaking, but Wright never overdramatised or underplayed any of it. It all came across as realistic and believable. If I could have hugged Vinny and Natalie, I totally would have done so.
That said, I did have some niggles. Personally, I feel the story could have been a little shorter. There are parts towards the end that dragged a bit for me. I also thought that DS Wilmott's chapters were unnecessary and brought little, if anything, to the story. She seemed to just lament the fact that her job kept her away from her daughter, and functioned as some sort of emotional support for Vinny. Apart from that, I'm also stuck with the idea that one or two things - in hindsight - just didn't quite make sense to me.
'Against The Tide' shows, once again, that you just never know what goes on behind closed doors. And that, as children, we might have a skewed perspective of our parents, or their marriage, or even our own childhood. Both Natalie and Vinny are dealing with the loss of their parents, who were taken from them in very different ways.
I always say I don't appreciate it when my crime fiction is on the verge of making me shed a tear or two. But the truth is, I absolutely appreciate the depth, the insight, and the emotional impact authors like Wright can achieve. It's not just about solving a crime. It's about characters navigating a new reality and about living through the aftermath of something truly horrific. It undoubtedly makes for a compelling and absorbing read as it's near impossible not to become invested.
This was my first introduction to G.D Wright, even though I've had his previous book on my shelves for ages. It's a tad odd to use the word "enjoyed" considering the heavy topics, but I liked this one and this will definitely not be the last time I pick up a book by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I cannot explain just how much I adore G.D Wright and his books. Even when he was going through a difficult time, he was still kind enough to contact me when I was having a bad mental health episode and I can't begin to say how much that meant to be. So I was thrilled to get to read an early copy of his new book.
This is book three in this, unofficial trilogy I suppose, starting with After the Storm and then Into the Fire.
We've got the same characters from the previous two which helps add a sense of familiarity, but we've also got new ones which makes it fresh and exciting. They are all written very well. Not all likeable, and no-one is 100% hero or villain, they're all a bit morally grey which makes them more human. The characters are the best they've ever been; these three books have really given him the time to develop them.
At first, I thought it wasn't going to be as heart-wrenching as the previous two, because they tended to focus on children and this one didn't. And I was happy about that at first because the other two destroyed me. But no. I spoke too soon. I was wrong. It's just as bad (and I mean that in the best, positive way possible).
I managed to get to about 55% before I cried though, which is progress!
This one looks more at the police, the humans behind the force, rather than the crimes themselves - that's what I got out of it anyway.
We've got the main story, yes, but we also have this story concerning Vinny. It's got so many layers to it, that handled by someone not as adept as Wright, might have been too much. But everything is balanced so well here, the stories, characters, memories, emotions, and just everything about it is so wonderful. His ability to write grief is second to none, and I saw myself in the bereaved and it really touched me.
His books are thrillers yes, there's deaths, crimes, detectives, horror, and violence and whatnot. But for me, the thriller elements almost take a back seat, so important are the relationships and emotions he's developed in these characters.
And the ending - obviously I'm not going to spoil it but I did not see it coming one bit (then again I am notoriously terrible at working out the endings of whodunnits and whatnot).
Whilst it's not a conventional trilogy as such, the main characters do hold a story thread across the three, and I did wonder if this would be the end of it, but after finishing it, I'm really hoping that's a big fat NO, because I'd read about these characters forever if I could.
It's not an easy book to read, let's be honest here, there are some very difficult topics. But it's handled so well. I just absorbed it and read it in one day because I HAD to know what happened.
That's three books he's published, three books I've read, and three books I've given five stars too. At this rate, he's on to a career chock-a-block of five-star reviews and I for one cannot wait to collect them all (I think that makes him a Pokémon).
I cannot explain just how much I adore G.D Wright and his books. Even when he was going through a difficult time, he was still kind enough to contact me when I was having a bad mental health episode and I can't begin to say how much that meant to be. So I was thrilled to get to read an early copy of his new book.
This is book three in this, unofficial trilogy I suppose, starting with After the Storm and then Into the Fire.
We've got the same characters from the previous two which helps add a sense of familiarity, but we've also got new ones which makes it fresh and exciting. They are all written very well. Not all likeable, and no-one is 100% hero or villain, they're all a bit morally grey which makes them more human. The characters are the best they've ever been; these three books have really given him the time to develop them.
At first, I thought it wasn't going to be as heart-wrenching as the previous two, because they tended to focus on children and this one didn't. And I was happy about that at first because the other two destroyed me. But no. I spoke too soon. I was wrong. It's just as bad (and I mean that in the best, positive way possible).
I managed to get to about 55% before I cried though, which is progress!
This one looks more at the police, the humans behind the force, rather than the crimes themselves - that's what I got out of it anyway.
We've got the main story, yes, but we also have this story concerning Vinny. It's got so many layers to it, that handled by someone not as adept as Wright, might have been too much. But everything is balanced so well here, the stories, characters, memories, emotions, and just everything about it is so wonderful. His ability to write grief is second to none, and I saw myself in the bereaved and it really touched me.
His books are thrillers yes, there's deaths, crimes, detectives, horror, and violence and whatnot. But for me, the thriller elements almost take a back seat, so important are the relationships and emotions he's developed in these characters.
And the ending - obviously I'm not going to spoil it but I did not see it coming one bit (then again I am notoriously terrible at working out the endings of whodunnits and whatnot).
Whilst it's not a conventional trilogy as such, the main characters do hold a story thread across the three, and I did wonder if this would be the end of it, but after finishing it, I'm really hoping that's a big fat NO, because I'd read about these characters forever if I could.
It's not an easy book to read, let's be honest here, there are some very difficult topics. But it's handled so well. I just absorbed it and read it in one day because I HAD to know what happened.
That's three books he's published, three books I've read, and three books I've given five stars too. At this rate, he's on to a career chock-a-block of five-star reviews and I for one cannot wait to collect them all (I think that makes him a Pokémon).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Against the Tide by G. D. Wright is a very highly recommended, heartbreaking, investigative thriller/domestic drama. This is the third book in the series featuring DS Sue Willmott but it can be read as a standalone novel.
DC Vinny Robson already has his hands full between work and his mother Mary's dementia so when an elderly couple are violently murdered in Beachbrook, it adds even more stress as the police investigate. The police are already busy with a series of home burglaries plaguing the town. Working along with DS Sue Wilmott and the team, everyone is now seeking clues concerning the murder victims and potential suspects. In this case Vinny acts as the Family Liaison Officer to Natalie, the daughter of two murder victims and a therapist, while also seeking any information from their past that might point to the perpetrators. As Vinny's mom worsens she says something that shakes him to the core and has him looking into his own past while still investigating the murders.
The well-written, complicated, compelling, and emotionally charged narrative alternates between the points-of-view of Vinny, Sue, some chapters from Natalie, and excerpts from a dairy. Vinny doesn't discover the dairy until later in the plot but readers will know his mother wrote it, which make the plot even more complex and intense. The narrative is well-plotted and full of new discoveries, twists and devastating revelations. There is a whole lot going on in this plot and you will be glued to the pages, reading as fast as you can to see what happens or is revealed next, even as it all breaks your heart for those involved.
Along with an excellent mystery and investigation, all the characters are portrayed as emotionally realistic, fully realized individuals with strengths and weaknesses. The characters come to life as realistic individuals, dealing with doubts and personal struggles, all presented along with plenty of emotionally charged situations. The facts and details of the investigation are dark and difficult, but the raw emotional turmoil of those experiencing the events in the novel is captured realistically.
While reading you will be able to try and piece together clues and many of the twists at the end will shock and surprise many readers. I was able to predict parts of the final denouement and piece together many of the clues but that didn't lessened the impact of the ending. I haven't read the previous two novel by G.D. Ward, (After the Storm and Into the Fire) but based on the quality of the writing and impact of Against the Tide, they are going on my TBR list asap.
Against the Tide is an excellent choice for everyone who enjoys complex, detailed investigative thrillers/domestic dramas. Thanks to Avon Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
DC Vinny Robson already has his hands full between work and his mother Mary's dementia so when an elderly couple are violently murdered in Beachbrook, it adds even more stress as the police investigate. The police are already busy with a series of home burglaries plaguing the town. Working along with DS Sue Wilmott and the team, everyone is now seeking clues concerning the murder victims and potential suspects. In this case Vinny acts as the Family Liaison Officer to Natalie, the daughter of two murder victims and a therapist, while also seeking any information from their past that might point to the perpetrators. As Vinny's mom worsens she says something that shakes him to the core and has him looking into his own past while still investigating the murders.
The well-written, complicated, compelling, and emotionally charged narrative alternates between the points-of-view of Vinny, Sue, some chapters from Natalie, and excerpts from a dairy. Vinny doesn't discover the dairy until later in the plot but readers will know his mother wrote it, which make the plot even more complex and intense. The narrative is well-plotted and full of new discoveries, twists and devastating revelations. There is a whole lot going on in this plot and you will be glued to the pages, reading as fast as you can to see what happens or is revealed next, even as it all breaks your heart for those involved.
Along with an excellent mystery and investigation, all the characters are portrayed as emotionally realistic, fully realized individuals with strengths and weaknesses. The characters come to life as realistic individuals, dealing with doubts and personal struggles, all presented along with plenty of emotionally charged situations. The facts and details of the investigation are dark and difficult, but the raw emotional turmoil of those experiencing the events in the novel is captured realistically.
While reading you will be able to try and piece together clues and many of the twists at the end will shock and surprise many readers. I was able to predict parts of the final denouement and piece together many of the clues but that didn't lessened the impact of the ending. I haven't read the previous two novel by G.D. Ward, (After the Storm and Into the Fire) but based on the quality of the writing and impact of Against the Tide, they are going on my TBR list asap.
Against the Tide is an excellent choice for everyone who enjoys complex, detailed investigative thrillers/domestic dramas. Thanks to Avon Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
July 26, 2026
When the Truth Changes Everything<\b>
Having read this author’s previous books, I was confident this one would be another gripping read, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Just like the first two, it held me firmly in its grasp from the very first page. The plot was completely unexpected, and I loved the way the reader knew more about the mystery at the heart of the story while the characters were, for the most part, left trying to piece everything together. Of course, nothing is ever quite as straightforward as it first appears. The story constantly evolves, revealing layer upon layer until it becomes clear there is so much more going on than anyone could have imagined. The characters felt wonderfully real, and I took to Vinny almost immediately. This is a powerful and devastating story that grips you deeply and refuses to let go.
One of G.D. Wright’s greatest strengths is the ability to create believable characters whose lives become completely entwined, drawing the reader into every triumph and heartbreak. There were several moments when I found myself shedding a tear for Vinny, Jack, DS Wilmot and Natalie. Each had their own compelling story to tell, and I became completely invested in their journeys. As the novel unfolds, we discover that knowing the full truth isn’t always the blessing we imagine it to be, and that the consequences can be utterly heartbreaking. The plot twists and changes direction at a relentless pace, keeping me thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end. Time and again I thought I had worked out where the story was heading, only to be caught completely off guard by the tragedy that unfolds.
As the novel approached its conclusion, it seemed as though everything was finally falling into place and a happy ending was within reach. Then came one final twist, followed by the revelation I had been quietly wondering about all along. Even though I had tentatively considered the possibility, seeing it unfold was every bit as shocking and satisfying as I had hoped.
This was an absorbing and emotionally powerful read that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. It kept my mind racing even when I had put the book down, and I loved every minute of it. Once again, G.D. Wright has delivered a truly outstanding novel, further proving what an accomplished storyteller he is.
Having read this author’s previous books, I was confident this one would be another gripping read, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed. Just like the first two, it held me firmly in its grasp from the very first page. The plot was completely unexpected, and I loved the way the reader knew more about the mystery at the heart of the story while the characters were, for the most part, left trying to piece everything together. Of course, nothing is ever quite as straightforward as it first appears. The story constantly evolves, revealing layer upon layer until it becomes clear there is so much more going on than anyone could have imagined. The characters felt wonderfully real, and I took to Vinny almost immediately. This is a powerful and devastating story that grips you deeply and refuses to let go.
One of G.D. Wright’s greatest strengths is the ability to create believable characters whose lives become completely entwined, drawing the reader into every triumph and heartbreak. There were several moments when I found myself shedding a tear for Vinny, Jack, DS Wilmot and Natalie. Each had their own compelling story to tell, and I became completely invested in their journeys. As the novel unfolds, we discover that knowing the full truth isn’t always the blessing we imagine it to be, and that the consequences can be utterly heartbreaking. The plot twists and changes direction at a relentless pace, keeping me thoroughly engrossed from beginning to end. Time and again I thought I had worked out where the story was heading, only to be caught completely off guard by the tragedy that unfolds.
As the novel approached its conclusion, it seemed as though everything was finally falling into place and a happy ending was within reach. Then came one final twist, followed by the revelation I had been quietly wondering about all along. Even though I had tentatively considered the possibility, seeing it unfold was every bit as shocking and satisfying as I had hoped.
This was an absorbing and emotionally powerful read that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. It kept my mind racing even when I had put the book down, and I loved every minute of it. Once again, G.D. Wright has delivered a truly outstanding novel, further proving what an accomplished storyteller he is.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I am a real fan of G.D. Wright's books. Yes, if you look on a basic level, these are stories rooted in crimes, where the police are engaged in the progression of the story to more or less extent in each of the books. There are characters, particularly DS Sue Willmott, who link the novels as a series, but whilst Sue is key to the progres of each investigation, and we do get to know her on a personal as well as professional level, it is not a series about here. This time around though, there is a much higher level of involvement from the police and the book feels a touch more like your traditional police investigation based thriller. And yet, as will its predecessors, it is also so much more.
This time around the attention is focused on one of the police officers, DC Vinny Robson, who works alongside DS Willmott in Beachbrook, and who is going through a bit of a rough time on a personal level. His mother is succumbing to the latter stages of dementia, and balancing this against its work responsibilities is taking its toll. But that is only the start and when tasked with acting as the Family Liaison Officer to the daughter of two murder victims, no-one can realise how quickly this case is going to turn attention very close to home.
I like the way in which G.D. Wright has shaped this story, allowing us to follow the investigation into two very brutal murders, but also interjecting the action with snippets from a diary, the author of which is initially unclear but is soon revealed. As much as the murders and the daughter's reaction add that personal touch of emotion to the story, it is through the diary chapters and the realisation of what we are reading that the deep emotional core of the book develops. As readers we have far greater knowledge than the police as to the nature of what has happened, and some of the key scenes in the book come with a stark and hard hitting sense of realisation about what we are privy to. This is not played for shocks in any way, and whilst the darkest portions of what happens are kept off the page, the author elicited such deep emotions from what I was reading it was impossible not to be moved by all that came to pass.
The central case here is about the murders, utterly vicious and believed to be an escalation following a series of robberies. But there is always that sense that something is not quite right, and the suspense is there, building, from that very first scene, waiting for us, and the police, to make all the necessary links. the book is steeped in mystery and emotion, and some of the scenes in wich the key characters are consumed by grief and heart-wrenching realisations almost feel visceral at times, as does the empathy towards Willmott who navigates the difficult waters of being a single mother, dedicated to her job but also missing the most important moments of her child's life for the sake of the case. It gives the whole story a real sense of authetincity, as well as endearing the characters to me all the more.
I think that is what I like best about these books. They really are rooted in the everyday. Entirely plausible situations with characters who feel real. Feel like they could be someone you know and in whose success, or at the very least their futures, you are utterly invested in. And despite the heightened emotions at times in this book, there is also a whisper of romance and kinship that feeds from the start to end of the book, and the acknowledgment that family are more than those who connect to you through flesh and blood. A hard hitting, heartbreaking story at times, but one I was completely focused upon from the very first chapter. Definitely recommended.
This time around the attention is focused on one of the police officers, DC Vinny Robson, who works alongside DS Willmott in Beachbrook, and who is going through a bit of a rough time on a personal level. His mother is succumbing to the latter stages of dementia, and balancing this against its work responsibilities is taking its toll. But that is only the start and when tasked with acting as the Family Liaison Officer to the daughter of two murder victims, no-one can realise how quickly this case is going to turn attention very close to home.
I like the way in which G.D. Wright has shaped this story, allowing us to follow the investigation into two very brutal murders, but also interjecting the action with snippets from a diary, the author of which is initially unclear but is soon revealed. As much as the murders and the daughter's reaction add that personal touch of emotion to the story, it is through the diary chapters and the realisation of what we are reading that the deep emotional core of the book develops. As readers we have far greater knowledge than the police as to the nature of what has happened, and some of the key scenes in the book come with a stark and hard hitting sense of realisation about what we are privy to. This is not played for shocks in any way, and whilst the darkest portions of what happens are kept off the page, the author elicited such deep emotions from what I was reading it was impossible not to be moved by all that came to pass.
The central case here is about the murders, utterly vicious and believed to be an escalation following a series of robberies. But there is always that sense that something is not quite right, and the suspense is there, building, from that very first scene, waiting for us, and the police, to make all the necessary links. the book is steeped in mystery and emotion, and some of the scenes in wich the key characters are consumed by grief and heart-wrenching realisations almost feel visceral at times, as does the empathy towards Willmott who navigates the difficult waters of being a single mother, dedicated to her job but also missing the most important moments of her child's life for the sake of the case. It gives the whole story a real sense of authetincity, as well as endearing the characters to me all the more.
I think that is what I like best about these books. They really are rooted in the everyday. Entirely plausible situations with characters who feel real. Feel like they could be someone you know and in whose success, or at the very least their futures, you are utterly invested in. And despite the heightened emotions at times in this book, there is also a whisper of romance and kinship that feeds from the start to end of the book, and the acknowledgment that family are more than those who connect to you through flesh and blood. A hard hitting, heartbreaking story at times, but one I was completely focused upon from the very first chapter. Definitely recommended.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third book in the excellent series featuring DS Sue Willmott and, to get the very best out of her, other series characters, and the series itself, I do recommend you read the previous two books first.
In this book we follow DC Vinny Robson as he investigates the violent death of an elderly couple in their own home. It's a bit close to home for him as he is juggling the case with also visiting his elderly mother Mary who is suffering from dementia and is receiving end of life care in a home. As well as following Vinny we also hear from the couple's daughter Natalie and DS Willmott herself. We also meet Vinny's Aunty Mags and her son, his surrogate brother, Jack. And, peppered throughout are excerpts from Mary's diary...
As well as the murder, the police are also trying to solve a spate of burglaries, and initially the couple's death was linked to these. But as the case progresses, it becomes clear that there is something really dark going on...
Oh my days, this book was harrowing. Oh Vinny... having to act as FLO to Natalie as well as everything else going on in your life, and then to have it all implode... phew... talk about all the emotions... And then when he discovers the diaries and catches up to what we, as readers, already know... wow...
But, all that said, it never gets too dark. I never felt overwhelmed, Nor did I feel that the author was writing over the top for effect. Some of the topics contained herein are very emotive but the author handles them very sensitively. So many dark secrets and lies. With twists and turns, shocks and surprises, I really gave up trying to second guess quite early on as I realised that this story was one best left for the author to expose, rather than me to guess ahead. And boy was that the right decision as I was well rewarded by THE best ending I have read in time.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be a very impressive series. I'm really looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
In this book we follow DC Vinny Robson as he investigates the violent death of an elderly couple in their own home. It's a bit close to home for him as he is juggling the case with also visiting his elderly mother Mary who is suffering from dementia and is receiving end of life care in a home. As well as following Vinny we also hear from the couple's daughter Natalie and DS Willmott herself. We also meet Vinny's Aunty Mags and her son, his surrogate brother, Jack. And, peppered throughout are excerpts from Mary's diary...
As well as the murder, the police are also trying to solve a spate of burglaries, and initially the couple's death was linked to these. But as the case progresses, it becomes clear that there is something really dark going on...
Oh my days, this book was harrowing. Oh Vinny... having to act as FLO to Natalie as well as everything else going on in your life, and then to have it all implode... phew... talk about all the emotions... And then when he discovers the diaries and catches up to what we, as readers, already know... wow...
But, all that said, it never gets too dark. I never felt overwhelmed, Nor did I feel that the author was writing over the top for effect. Some of the topics contained herein are very emotive but the author handles them very sensitively. So many dark secrets and lies. With twists and turns, shocks and surprises, I really gave up trying to second guess quite early on as I realised that this story was one best left for the author to expose, rather than me to guess ahead. And boy was that the right decision as I was well rewarded by THE best ending I have read in time.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be a very impressive series. I'm really looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
He’s only gone and done it again, hasn’t he?! But, if you’re already a massive fan of Gaz’s books like I am, you probably already know it’s going to be another corker before you’ve even picked it up (and without me even telling you!) I love Gaz’s books. I adore them. But this one… it hit different. Yes, I inhaled it. Yes, it made me cry. And yes, I think this is his best book yet.
Against the Tide is an exceptional crime drama, a real masterclass in emotional depth with relatable characters and heart-pounding scenarios that command every bit of your attention. The third book from G.D. Wright focuses on DC Vinny Robson who is acting as Family Liaison Officer in a new case, with our favourite DS Sue Willmott; there are burglars terrorising Beachbrook, and an elderly couple are found brutally murdered in their home. But alongside this horrific investigation, Vinny also has to navigate his way through the most testing of times as his mother battles dementia. He discovers her lost diaries from years gone by and uncovers painful truths that would change his entire life. His personal and professional lives collide in the most unimaginable of ways and let me tell you – it’s an absolutely phenomenal read.
I was once again completely absorbed in this author’s writing. It’s so easy to read and so incredibly engrossing that before you know it, the sun’s gone down and you’ve missed a meal. But let’s face it, those are the kind of books you want in your life. The pacing was perfectly balanced, the shocking discoveries (and there are loads) punch you in the gut and have you thinking about what you’d do in a situation, how you’d cope, how you’d heal and move on. The delicate attention given to grief and people affected by dementia had me in tears. I felt everything so deeply and I was so moved by it.
On one hand, it’s a story of strength, of community, of family and friendship. But on the other, it’s about dark, buried secrets, a haunting, unthinkable past, and a mother’s desire to protect. And that ending? Oooooff!! It’s already effortlessly slipped into my top reads of the year, no question! Book four, where are you?!
Against the Tide is an exceptional crime drama, a real masterclass in emotional depth with relatable characters and heart-pounding scenarios that command every bit of your attention. The third book from G.D. Wright focuses on DC Vinny Robson who is acting as Family Liaison Officer in a new case, with our favourite DS Sue Willmott; there are burglars terrorising Beachbrook, and an elderly couple are found brutally murdered in their home. But alongside this horrific investigation, Vinny also has to navigate his way through the most testing of times as his mother battles dementia. He discovers her lost diaries from years gone by and uncovers painful truths that would change his entire life. His personal and professional lives collide in the most unimaginable of ways and let me tell you – it’s an absolutely phenomenal read.
I was once again completely absorbed in this author’s writing. It’s so easy to read and so incredibly engrossing that before you know it, the sun’s gone down and you’ve missed a meal. But let’s face it, those are the kind of books you want in your life. The pacing was perfectly balanced, the shocking discoveries (and there are loads) punch you in the gut and have you thinking about what you’d do in a situation, how you’d cope, how you’d heal and move on. The delicate attention given to grief and people affected by dementia had me in tears. I felt everything so deeply and I was so moved by it.
On one hand, it’s a story of strength, of community, of family and friendship. But on the other, it’s about dark, buried secrets, a haunting, unthinkable past, and a mother’s desire to protect. And that ending? Oooooff!! It’s already effortlessly slipped into my top reads of the year, no question! Book four, where are you?!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Against the Tide is one of those crime novels that pulls you in with its mystery but keeps you there for its emotional weight. What begins as a brutal double murder in the quiet coastal town of Beachbrook quickly becomes something far more personal for DC Vinny Robson—a man who has spent his life seeking justice for others, only to find himself dragged into the darkest corners of his own history.
The setting is beautifully rendered: the south coast with its shifting tides, its salt‑stung air, and its sense that the sea is always hiding something beneath the surface. That atmosphere mirrors Vinny’s journey perfectly. As he and DS Sue Wilmott dig into the case, the discovery of his mother’s old diaries cracks open a lifetime of secrets she fought fiercely to bury. The emotional punch of those entries—fragmented memories, quiet confessions, the things she couldn’t say aloud—gives the novel a haunting intimacy.
The investigation itself is tense and layered, but it’s the personal stakes that make it compelling. Vinny’s struggle is not just about catching a killer; it’s about confronting the version of his past he’s always believed in and the version that might destroy him. The more he uncovers, the more the line blurs between truth and protection, justice and survival. The metaphor of the tide is woven through the narrative with subtle elegance—some truths stay submerged for decades, but once they begin to rise, they’re impossible to stop.
The pacing is steady and immersive, building toward revelations that feel both shocking and inevitable. Fans of Karin Slaughter, Gillian McAllister, and Ann Cleeves will appreciate the blend of emotional depth, atmospheric tension, and character‑driven suspense.
A moving, quietly devastating crime drama about family, memory, and the dangerous pull of long‑buried truths. It lingers like sea mist long after the final page.
With thanks to GD Wright, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The setting is beautifully rendered: the south coast with its shifting tides, its salt‑stung air, and its sense that the sea is always hiding something beneath the surface. That atmosphere mirrors Vinny’s journey perfectly. As he and DS Sue Wilmott dig into the case, the discovery of his mother’s old diaries cracks open a lifetime of secrets she fought fiercely to bury. The emotional punch of those entries—fragmented memories, quiet confessions, the things she couldn’t say aloud—gives the novel a haunting intimacy.
The investigation itself is tense and layered, but it’s the personal stakes that make it compelling. Vinny’s struggle is not just about catching a killer; it’s about confronting the version of his past he’s always believed in and the version that might destroy him. The more he uncovers, the more the line blurs between truth and protection, justice and survival. The metaphor of the tide is woven through the narrative with subtle elegance—some truths stay submerged for decades, but once they begin to rise, they’re impossible to stop.
The pacing is steady and immersive, building toward revelations that feel both shocking and inevitable. Fans of Karin Slaughter, Gillian McAllister, and Ann Cleeves will appreciate the blend of emotional depth, atmospheric tension, and character‑driven suspense.
A moving, quietly devastating crime drama about family, memory, and the dangerous pull of long‑buried truths. It lingers like sea mist long after the final page.
With thanks to GD Wright, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley, G.D. Wright, and the team at Avon Books for providing me access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Final rating: 4 stars.
I was very excited to be approved for an ARC for this author. Into The Fire was one of my favourite reads last year and I had given it a 5 star for its attention to detail, effectively interwoven themes, and the perfect balance between plot and character development. So applying for approval of this ARC was a no-brainer.
Coming back to the town of Beachbrook and Sue Willmott felt like being introduced to a cozy community that you may have easily grown up in. The author also creates a very intriguing and harrowing crime that is present throughout the book, the seemingly random murder of two elderly people. Meanwhile, one of the main detectives in the novel is going through his own crises with the illness of his mother and recent death of his father, which reveals itself to be more connected to the overall plot than meets the eye.
One of the things I most appreciate about G.D. Wright's books is the attention to detail when it comes to police procedure. He has previously worked as a police officer, and it shows throughout in both the exciting and the mundane details. As someone who studied these subjects at a university level and often gets frustrated when reading police procedurals, even small references to MG forms and legislation are incredibly welcome. Another one of my favourite parts of the book is how the characters are given room to breathe and process their situations. Things do happen that drive the plot forward, but characters are allowed to be fleshed out and react to their situations appropriately. It is this distinction that puts this series on a high pedestal in my opinion.
My only issue is I felt that at times it felt too heavy-handed with the plot twists at the end, and I felt the narrative would have greatly improved if this had been reduced.
Final rating: 4 stars.
I was very excited to be approved for an ARC for this author. Into The Fire was one of my favourite reads last year and I had given it a 5 star for its attention to detail, effectively interwoven themes, and the perfect balance between plot and character development. So applying for approval of this ARC was a no-brainer.
Coming back to the town of Beachbrook and Sue Willmott felt like being introduced to a cozy community that you may have easily grown up in. The author also creates a very intriguing and harrowing crime that is present throughout the book, the seemingly random murder of two elderly people. Meanwhile, one of the main detectives in the novel is going through his own crises with the illness of his mother and recent death of his father, which reveals itself to be more connected to the overall plot than meets the eye.
One of the things I most appreciate about G.D. Wright's books is the attention to detail when it comes to police procedure. He has previously worked as a police officer, and it shows throughout in both the exciting and the mundane details. As someone who studied these subjects at a university level and often gets frustrated when reading police procedurals, even small references to MG forms and legislation are incredibly welcome. Another one of my favourite parts of the book is how the characters are given room to breathe and process their situations. Things do happen that drive the plot forward, but characters are allowed to be fleshed out and react to their situations appropriately. It is this distinction that puts this series on a high pedestal in my opinion.
My only issue is I felt that at times it felt too heavy-handed with the plot twists at the end, and I felt the narrative would have greatly improved if this had been reduced.
July 10, 2026
What a cracker of a story this was! I feel like I’ve been on the wildest rollercoaster ride of them all while reading this one.
It’s told in the third person with three POVs and diary extracts interwoven throughout, so we really do see a bird’s eye view of this police procedural. It’s a story of many layers, and beyond the investigation we find out about the anguish facing Vinny, DS Wilmott and Natalie in their personal lives.
DS Wilmott and Vinny are involved in the search for a gang who are breaking and entering, leaving terror and heartbreak in their wake, while Natalie’s family are the victims of the most horrific crime. The course of the investigation unearths a historic crime too which has a far-reaching impact, and brings an endless succession of twists and turns.
The story has a start which shocks, and an ending which shocks even more! You are immediately drawn in and as the narrative progresses, you begin to realise that a massive spider’s web is being spun which is utterly captivating as the more you learn, the more you want to know.
I was really interested in the way the FLO (family liaison officer) worked in this one, as I don’t think I’ve read a book which focuses on this job before. The emotional stress and strain must be considerable - especially with a crime as brutal as this one. It is very a very hard-hitting story; tough to read in places, intense and disturbing. You might want to check trigger warnings before reading.
During the final part of the story, I felt like I was watching a blockbuster movie. It was action-packed with one revelation after another. My emotions were all over the place, and my heart raced along with the plot. There was a point, near the end, where I stopped, utterly stumped, and had to go back and find a part to re-read before realising how very clever the author had been in pulling the wool over my eyes!
Can’t recommend this enough!
It’s told in the third person with three POVs and diary extracts interwoven throughout, so we really do see a bird’s eye view of this police procedural. It’s a story of many layers, and beyond the investigation we find out about the anguish facing Vinny, DS Wilmott and Natalie in their personal lives.
DS Wilmott and Vinny are involved in the search for a gang who are breaking and entering, leaving terror and heartbreak in their wake, while Natalie’s family are the victims of the most horrific crime. The course of the investigation unearths a historic crime too which has a far-reaching impact, and brings an endless succession of twists and turns.
The story has a start which shocks, and an ending which shocks even more! You are immediately drawn in and as the narrative progresses, you begin to realise that a massive spider’s web is being spun which is utterly captivating as the more you learn, the more you want to know.
I was really interested in the way the FLO (family liaison officer) worked in this one, as I don’t think I’ve read a book which focuses on this job before. The emotional stress and strain must be considerable - especially with a crime as brutal as this one. It is very a very hard-hitting story; tough to read in places, intense and disturbing. You might want to check trigger warnings before reading.
During the final part of the story, I felt like I was watching a blockbuster movie. It was action-packed with one revelation after another. My emotions were all over the place, and my heart raced along with the plot. There was a point, near the end, where I stopped, utterly stumped, and had to go back and find a part to re-read before realising how very clever the author had been in pulling the wool over my eyes!
Can’t recommend this enough!
August 26, 2026
Wow. What a blooming marvelous novel this is. A relentless psychological thriller that's emotionally ingrained, deeply moving, evocative, and powerful.
I was hooked, and within the first few chapters, I could sense 5-star vibes. This story not only delivered but reverberated.
'If the truth could destroy you, would you choose to know it?'
A simple statement but a catastrophic impact when the truth is revealed for DC Vinny Robson, and this thought-provoking theme will set the whole tone for this impeccable story.
This story appears to be a police procedural thriller on the surface, but let me tell you, it's so much more. It has intense psychological depth and more layers than an onion.
When you're first introduced to the case of an elderly couple being murdered, it kick-starts with a dark premise. The policing team of Beechbrook are powering forward in the investigation, determined but stuck.
As things are bubbling away, nothing prepares you for how wretched this case is, and Vinny's whole life quite literally becomes a fight against a moving tide.
DC Vinny Robson is such a likable character, and his development excelled. I not only connected to him but felt piled with his emotions. It's impossible not to put yourself in his shoes and become absorbed by the emotions.
There are so many intricate details woven within this story; my mind was always ruminating.
The historical diary entries were positively disruptive and exposed how raw and meaningful this story is. Unequivocally heart-wrenching.
The story addresses some serious, hard-hitting, and tragic themes. Although they are handled with care and delivered empathetically.
The writing is skilled, flawless, razor-sharp, and eloquent. It has an unyielding speed that doesn't let up. The narrative was profound, enotionally wrecking and well balanced.
This dark addictive, topsy-turvy story is one you will want to cancel all your adulting plans for because this is the very definition of a page-turner.
I was hooked, and within the first few chapters, I could sense 5-star vibes. This story not only delivered but reverberated.
'If the truth could destroy you, would you choose to know it?'
A simple statement but a catastrophic impact when the truth is revealed for DC Vinny Robson, and this thought-provoking theme will set the whole tone for this impeccable story.
This story appears to be a police procedural thriller on the surface, but let me tell you, it's so much more. It has intense psychological depth and more layers than an onion.
When you're first introduced to the case of an elderly couple being murdered, it kick-starts with a dark premise. The policing team of Beechbrook are powering forward in the investigation, determined but stuck.
As things are bubbling away, nothing prepares you for how wretched this case is, and Vinny's whole life quite literally becomes a fight against a moving tide.
DC Vinny Robson is such a likable character, and his development excelled. I not only connected to him but felt piled with his emotions. It's impossible not to put yourself in his shoes and become absorbed by the emotions.
There are so many intricate details woven within this story; my mind was always ruminating.
The historical diary entries were positively disruptive and exposed how raw and meaningful this story is. Unequivocally heart-wrenching.
The story addresses some serious, hard-hitting, and tragic themes. Although they are handled with care and delivered empathetically.
The writing is skilled, flawless, razor-sharp, and eloquent. It has an unyielding speed that doesn't let up. The narrative was profound, enotionally wrecking and well balanced.
This dark addictive, topsy-turvy story is one you will want to cancel all your adulting plans for because this is the very definition of a page-turner.
August 14, 2026
Against The Tide is the third book from G D Wright - and boy do his books just keep getting better. Featuring recurring characters, they can happily be read as standalones, but I'd heartily recommend all three!
When an elderly couple are found murdered in their home, DS Sue Willmott's team are tasked with the investigation. DC Vinny Jones is the Family Liaison Officer responsible for keeping the dead couple's daughter Natalie updated - with a mother suffering from advanced dementia, he is dealing with his own personal challenges, but what he doesn't expect is for the case to come unexpectedly close to home and throw everything he thought he knew about his life in question.
What the author does so brilliantly in all his books is infuse real emotion into the story, with characters who feel so real and whom we learn more about, and moments that genuinely punch you in the gut. Gaz's background as a police officer and FLO means there is a realism about the story and a genuine focus on the more human side of policing.
The story starts relatively slowly and diary extracts cleverly lull the reader into an almost false sense of security as it provides background that the investigating team are unaware of. But there is no shortage of surprises and once the twists start coming I settled back to enjoy the ride - and my goodness what a ride right to the final page.
I was lucky enough to meet the author briefly last week at Harrogate - and he was part of one of my favourite panels of the weekend. Great bloke and a very talented author. Pick up his books - you won't regret it!
When an elderly couple are found murdered in their home, DS Sue Willmott's team are tasked with the investigation. DC Vinny Jones is the Family Liaison Officer responsible for keeping the dead couple's daughter Natalie updated - with a mother suffering from advanced dementia, he is dealing with his own personal challenges, but what he doesn't expect is for the case to come unexpectedly close to home and throw everything he thought he knew about his life in question.
What the author does so brilliantly in all his books is infuse real emotion into the story, with characters who feel so real and whom we learn more about, and moments that genuinely punch you in the gut. Gaz's background as a police officer and FLO means there is a realism about the story and a genuine focus on the more human side of policing.
The story starts relatively slowly and diary extracts cleverly lull the reader into an almost false sense of security as it provides background that the investigating team are unaware of. But there is no shortage of surprises and once the twists start coming I settled back to enjoy the ride - and my goodness what a ride right to the final page.
I was lucky enough to meet the author briefly last week at Harrogate - and he was part of one of my favourite panels of the weekend. Great bloke and a very talented author. Pick up his books - you won't regret it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A series of violent robberies has been plaguing Beachbrook for months, with no suspects or leads. Now, DS Sue Wilmott and DC Vinny Robson are called in to investigate a brutal attack on an elderly couple in their own home.
But as the investigation unravels, and Vinny discovers his mum’s old diaries, he begins to uncover some very uncomfortable secrets that may connect to the crime he’s investigating..
Wow! By now, I know to prepare myself when starting a G.D. Wright book. From the very beginning chapter, I was immediately pulled into the shocking story and reminded that we’re back in Beachbrook!
Gary’s style is what I’d call police procedural with heart, and a decent dose of emotional devastation!
The story is expertly plotted, full of twists and surprises, scary and macabre at times. It’s also about real people and their relationships. The friendships, support and understanding between the colleagues at the police station feel very real and heartwarming in contrast to what they’re investigating. They look after each other, and the authenticity of Gary’s writing based on his own former police career really shine through.
And amongst the long-held secrets, questions around morality, and at times, pure evil, we also see humanity, empathy, and hope.
I enjoyed seeing DS Wilmott’s character developed even further from the previous books, and loved Vinny. I’m looking forward to reading more from them both in book 4!
But as the investigation unravels, and Vinny discovers his mum’s old diaries, he begins to uncover some very uncomfortable secrets that may connect to the crime he’s investigating..
Wow! By now, I know to prepare myself when starting a G.D. Wright book. From the very beginning chapter, I was immediately pulled into the shocking story and reminded that we’re back in Beachbrook!
Gary’s style is what I’d call police procedural with heart, and a decent dose of emotional devastation!
The story is expertly plotted, full of twists and surprises, scary and macabre at times. It’s also about real people and their relationships. The friendships, support and understanding between the colleagues at the police station feel very real and heartwarming in contrast to what they’re investigating. They look after each other, and the authenticity of Gary’s writing based on his own former police career really shine through.
And amongst the long-held secrets, questions around morality, and at times, pure evil, we also see humanity, empathy, and hope.
I enjoyed seeing DS Wilmott’s character developed even further from the previous books, and loved Vinny. I’m looking forward to reading more from them both in book 4!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Against the Tide is a very, VERY good read. I felt it started very slowly though so it took a while for me to get fully into the story and its characters. I have always liked DS Wilmott from the authors previous books and here DC Vinny Robson is introduced. The police at Beachbrook investigate two violent murders alongside a series of burglaries with Wilmott and Robson on the cases. I like Vinny, he is believable, very relatable and I loved his work relationship and friendship with Wilmott. The authors writing is very engaging and lured me in right away, and after the slow start the story quickly gains pace. The author writes of difficult and emotive subjects with sensitivity and care and describes his characters thoughts and feelings so eloquently I had so much empathy for them. I thoroughly enjoyed following the police investigation, the plot is well thought out which goes off in an unexpected direction a few times that had me rethinking all I'd read before. The story is told through different characters which works well here and the plot moves from past to present times seamlessly. The ending I hope sets up the next book nicely and I will definitely want to read it.
I have enjoyed previous books by this author and Against the Tide is no different. It is a beautifully written book with characters that you will take to heart and root for, and I would recommend this.
4 stars
I have enjoyed previous books by this author and Against the Tide is no different. It is a beautifully written book with characters that you will take to heart and root for, and I would recommend this.
4 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How do you know that you are reading a good book? You are so emersed in it that you blend your real life with what you are reading. I got so involved in this book. It was raining outside at my house and in the book the investigators are going in to a crime scene and I got mad at them because they were going to contaminate the crime scene by tracking mud in the house. Oh, yeah. IT WASN’T RAINING IN THE BOOK! THERE WAS NO MUD!!!
Sorry for yelling.
Now, you are going to think to yourself, “Well, if it is that good, I need to go out and buy this book and read it immediately.” Yes and no. Only if you have a good therapist on speed dial. I remember a time my mom said that she was going to stop reading John Grisham’s books because he couldn’t let the main characters truly be happy at the end of his books. Well, Mom, G. D. Wright says, “Hold my beer.” to Mr. Grisham. When I read the last couple of chapters of this book, I felt like Mr. Wright punched me in the gut. To be blunt, after reading the last page of the book, I felt like he had kicked me in the nether region. Multiple times. While wearing steel-toed boots. Double reinforced steel toes. With a bionic leg.
The mystery is seriously so good. The characters are written better than anyone else can write characters. You will feel their emotions. And there are a lot of emotions in this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Sorry for yelling.
Now, you are going to think to yourself, “Well, if it is that good, I need to go out and buy this book and read it immediately.” Yes and no. Only if you have a good therapist on speed dial. I remember a time my mom said that she was going to stop reading John Grisham’s books because he couldn’t let the main characters truly be happy at the end of his books. Well, Mom, G. D. Wright says, “Hold my beer.” to Mr. Grisham. When I read the last couple of chapters of this book, I felt like Mr. Wright punched me in the gut. To be blunt, after reading the last page of the book, I felt like he had kicked me in the nether region. Multiple times. While wearing steel-toed boots. Double reinforced steel toes. With a bionic leg.
The mystery is seriously so good. The characters are written better than anyone else can write characters. You will feel their emotions. And there are a lot of emotions in this novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read both of Gaz’s two other books, it was great to be back in Beachbrook and this is another great pageturner!
This time round, it is the brutal murder of an elderly couple the team is trying solve. Was it a burglary gone wrong or is there more to the case? As DC Vinny Robson and his colleagues try and put the pieces together, it becomes apparent that this could become more than personal. And once the truth is out, it could change everything. The question is would you always want to know the truth? And can murder ever be justified?
I really enjoy Gaz’s writing. Not only does he manage to keep you hooked throughout, I love how the fact that he is an ex police officer shines through the pages. The risks police officers take each day, the traumas they carry within their hearts and that special bond with their colleagues only they can truly understand, it all forms part of the story and it just adds another layer of depth and authenticity for me. The emotional side of this book is also one of its true strength for me: the characters are so well developed and so very human. We touch on so many aspects of life with true understanding and empathy. Another excellent book Gaz and out of the three probably my favourite even though I really liked the first two books as well.
(A small trigger warning to anyone this may affect: the book contains reference to rape and also dementia.)
This time round, it is the brutal murder of an elderly couple the team is trying solve. Was it a burglary gone wrong or is there more to the case? As DC Vinny Robson and his colleagues try and put the pieces together, it becomes apparent that this could become more than personal. And once the truth is out, it could change everything. The question is would you always want to know the truth? And can murder ever be justified?
I really enjoy Gaz’s writing. Not only does he manage to keep you hooked throughout, I love how the fact that he is an ex police officer shines through the pages. The risks police officers take each day, the traumas they carry within their hearts and that special bond with their colleagues only they can truly understand, it all forms part of the story and it just adds another layer of depth and authenticity for me. The emotional side of this book is also one of its true strength for me: the characters are so well developed and so very human. We touch on so many aspects of life with true understanding and empathy. Another excellent book Gaz and out of the three probably my favourite even though I really liked the first two books as well.
(A small trigger warning to anyone this may affect: the book contains reference to rape and also dementia.)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a WILD RIDE.
If you've read G.D Wright's previous books, you'll be familiar with the character DS Sue Wilmott. And like his others, this one is written from multiple POVs - including new protagonist Vinny. We follow Vinny's story as a FLO (Family Liaison Officer) on a case where an elderly couple is brutally murdered in their own home, as he offers support to their surviving daughter, Natalie. Vinny is also struggling with some pretty big issues in his personal life and we get a very raw look at how he handles his day job and his responsibility outside of work.
The story tackles some difficult topics but it's done really well. You can absolutely tell that the author worked in this field before, the realness makes it even more tense.
I'm never very good at weaving together clues and figuring out the plot, but I really thought I had it with this one. HOWEVER. Just as I thought I was onto something, I was slapped in the face by a twist, and again, and again and then once more for good measure.
If you're into thrillers with domestic crime plot lines then this is a must read for you.
This is an emotional story of how one crime can unravel years of buried secrets. It is gritty, raw and will keep you guessing until the end! I know I'm going to be thinking about this one for a while.
If you've read G.D Wright's previous books, you'll be familiar with the character DS Sue Wilmott. And like his others, this one is written from multiple POVs - including new protagonist Vinny. We follow Vinny's story as a FLO (Family Liaison Officer) on a case where an elderly couple is brutally murdered in their own home, as he offers support to their surviving daughter, Natalie. Vinny is also struggling with some pretty big issues in his personal life and we get a very raw look at how he handles his day job and his responsibility outside of work.
The story tackles some difficult topics but it's done really well. You can absolutely tell that the author worked in this field before, the realness makes it even more tense.
I'm never very good at weaving together clues and figuring out the plot, but I really thought I had it with this one. HOWEVER. Just as I thought I was onto something, I was slapped in the face by a twist, and again, and again and then once more for good measure.
If you're into thrillers with domestic crime plot lines then this is a must read for you.
This is an emotional story of how one crime can unravel years of buried secrets. It is gritty, raw and will keep you guessing until the end! I know I'm going to be thinking about this one for a while.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
DC Vinny Robson has spent his career seeking justice for others, but when an elderly couple are violently murdered in his hometown of Beachbrook, the investigation takes a devastating turn - one that cuts through his own family. As Vinny dives deeper, the case becomes more a pursuit of a killer - it's a fight against the undertow of his own past. But in chasing the truth, will he finally find justice, or will he drown in the wreckage of everything he thought he knew? Some truths should stay submerged. But once the tide turns, there's no stopping what comes to light.
I'm rally enjoying this police procedural series. We are on book three and Against the Tide is a great addition. DC Vinny Robson is still dealing with his mother's dementia diagnosis whilst working on a serious crime. This is quite an emotional read. We get a double murder and a haunting secrets that were buried in the past come to the fore. Some parts of this story are truly heartbreaking. This book could be read as a standalone but you will miss out on some of the main characters backstories. Now, we have a long wait until the next book is published.
Published 18th June 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #GDWright for my ARC of #AgainstTheTide in exchange for an honest review.
I'm rally enjoying this police procedural series. We are on book three and Against the Tide is a great addition. DC Vinny Robson is still dealing with his mother's dementia diagnosis whilst working on a serious crime. This is quite an emotional read. We get a double murder and a haunting secrets that were buried in the past come to the fore. Some parts of this story are truly heartbreaking. This book could be read as a standalone but you will miss out on some of the main characters backstories. Now, we have a long wait until the next book is published.
Published 18th June 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #GDWright for my ARC of #AgainstTheTide in exchange for an honest review.
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