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First Among the Dead: A Constable Tyler Neish Novella
All coppers have a first case. His might also be his last.
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.
First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect introduction to the world and characters of bestselling Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.
PLEASE This is a novella of around 36,000 words, around half the length of an average DCI Logan Novel.
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.
First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect introduction to the world and characters of bestselling Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.
PLEASE This is a novella of around 36,000 words, around half the length of an average DCI Logan Novel.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2025
649 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Kirk
53 books1,797 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 212 reviews
December 15, 2025
Banged more times than Stevie Wonder’s big toe 🤣
December 28, 2025
I've been waiting for the next JD Kirk book for ages and I didn't know about this one. What an unexpected surprise. Boy Band's origin story. I love it! Too bad there wasn't an audio version.
January 16, 2026
Such a great little bonus short story of the start of Tyler’s career
December 13, 2025
First among the dead by J D Kirk is a presequel story about Constable Tyler Neish and is when he started his first week’s policing. One of his friend’s sister has been missing from home and the police aren’t taking any interest in her disappearance, because she has gone missing before.
Tyler promises his old friend that he will find her.
It is an interesting look at where and how he began his police story, in a serious case that he managed to solve.
Tyler promises his old friend that he will find her.
It is an interesting look at where and how he began his police story, in a serious case that he managed to solve.
January 26, 2026
A Novella
Although I rarely read novellas, I couldn't resist a glimpse into the background of Tyler's first case. The fact that Bob Hoon makes an appearance sealed the deal. Entertaining, if too short.
Although I rarely read novellas, I couldn't resist a glimpse into the background of Tyler's first case. The fact that Bob Hoon makes an appearance sealed the deal. Entertaining, if too short.
December 14, 2025
Absolutely brilliant. A bonus novella released unexpectedly. Loved the cameo appearances in there too.
January 11, 2026
Brilliant novella, great to get Tyler's back story
December 28, 2025
I just need more!
Tyler has been a favourite character of mine since starting the DCI Logan series and I'm thrilled I got the chance to have a glimpse of Tyler's past through this book, my only gripe is that it wasn't long enough! I love that J D Kirk manages to weave comedy and horror into a picturesque backdrop utilising character's that you can't help but want ... NEED to know more about. Thank you for another fantastic read, can we have more of Caitlin please, her character is one I wish I'd gotten to know more about too.
Tyler has been a favourite character of mine since starting the DCI Logan series and I'm thrilled I got the chance to have a glimpse of Tyler's past through this book, my only gripe is that it wasn't long enough! I love that J D Kirk manages to weave comedy and horror into a picturesque backdrop utilising character's that you can't help but want ... NEED to know more about. Thank you for another fantastic read, can we have more of Caitlin please, her character is one I wish I'd gotten to know more about too.
December 14, 2025
An entertaining short story about Tyler’s first few days as a Police Constable. There’s running, falling and a dog - all of which we know Tyler is used to now!
A great read.
A great read.
December 23, 2025
Bloody fantastic!
I was a wee bit wary of reading this. Prequels just aren't my thing.... But I loved every single page.
I am also really bad at leaving reviews. But on finishing this, I just had too.
Now? Now I want more, I want to read all about those characters we have come to love so much, read about them all in their earlier years on the force.
Another excellent book for one of the best British crime writers we have. I just wish the gap in between the books wasn't so long...
I was a wee bit wary of reading this. Prequels just aren't my thing.... But I loved every single page.
I am also really bad at leaving reviews. But on finishing this, I just had too.
Now? Now I want more, I want to read all about those characters we have come to love so much, read about them all in their earlier years on the force.
Another excellent book for one of the best British crime writers we have. I just wish the gap in between the books wasn't so long...
December 22, 2025
Brilliant.
Tyler to the max. Superb. Take one naive brand new constable in the miserable dead of winter in the North of Scotland and present him with a mystery nobody else thinks worth investigating but him. And he does. Bumbling along, getting into scrapes, official scolds, but following his instincts. A story portraying the essence of lovable but annoying Tyler Neish who becomes an essential part of Logan's detective team. And introducing quite a few of the other senior officers he will work with one day. Loved this. Highly recommend it. Well done, I D Kirk!
Tyler to the max. Superb. Take one naive brand new constable in the miserable dead of winter in the North of Scotland and present him with a mystery nobody else thinks worth investigating but him. And he does. Bumbling along, getting into scrapes, official scolds, but following his instincts. A story portraying the essence of lovable but annoying Tyler Neish who becomes an essential part of Logan's detective team. And introducing quite a few of the other senior officers he will work with one day. Loved this. Highly recommend it. Well done, I D Kirk!
December 12, 2025
Baby Boy Band
Tyler Neish is a newly minted PC and his first major case, which nearly wasn’t even a case, hit close to home.
Tyler could have been fired for nearly a dozen different reasons in this novella so it’s a wonder he is now a DC.
Not always the sharpest tool in the box or quickest on the uptake, we see he’s had good instincts from the very beginning.
I truly hope this won’t be the only glimpse into his early days in the Polis.
Tyler Neish is a newly minted PC and his first major case, which nearly wasn’t even a case, hit close to home.
Tyler could have been fired for nearly a dozen different reasons in this novella so it’s a wonder he is now a DC.
Not always the sharpest tool in the box or quickest on the uptake, we see he’s had good instincts from the very beginning.
I truly hope this won’t be the only glimpse into his early days in the Polis.
January 18, 2026
I discovered the writing of J.D. Kirk in 2022, since then I have read over 50 volumes across three different pen names. I picked the first for a few reasons, but mainly because authors Alex Smith and JE Mayhew have both recommended the author and series. I am a big fan of Smith’s DCI Kett novels and Mayhew’s DCI Will Blake Series. I have been hooked since that first read. Kirk also publishes under the names Barry Hutchison and Barry J, Hutchison. I have now read the first 19 in the DCI Logan series and all 5 in the Robert Hoon series, The first two in the DI Heather Filson series as well as stand alone VIP exclusive short story.
I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under three different names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He has published over 200 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Being caught up now on his works as J.D. Kirk I will have to wait for each new one to come out, and this volume was well worth the weight.
The description of this novel is:
“All coppers have a first case. His might also be his last.
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a choice: follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.”
We are also informed:
“First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect introduction to the world and characters of bestselling Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.”
Tyler Neish is a favourite character in the DCI Logan Books and in the Robert Hoon novels. This is his back story, or at least part of it. He is a new recruit on the Inverness police force, and he wants to make his mark. Unfortunately he seems as good at messing up, and not following orders as he is eager and determined. Not a great combination. But when a mates sister is missing and no one seems to be taking it seriously, he is willing to break the rules because it is personal.
This story is very different than the rest of the series in that it goes back in time. It gives us a look at a very green Neish. A much younger Detective Superintendent Robert Hoon, Chief Inspector Samuel ‘Snecky’ Grant, DI Ben Forde, and even Dave Davidson. So we encounter a number of the regulars an see them in a different light.
I read most of this while travelling over the holidays. It is a great read, and I really hope Kirk releases more stories like this giving us more insight into Neish or even other members of the team. I love the three series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk and they are definitely Scottish Mysteries, or Scottish Police Crime novels. This story is not as dark or gritty as many written by Kirk, but it is a great expansion of the Scottish Crime novels he writes. A really good story I can easily recommend! Give it a read at Neish tried to figure out how he will handle his first dead body on the job.
I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under three different names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He has published over 200 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Being caught up now on his works as J.D. Kirk I will have to wait for each new one to come out, and this volume was well worth the weight.
The description of this novel is:
“All coppers have a first case. His might also be his last.
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a choice: follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.”
We are also informed:
“First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect introduction to the world and characters of bestselling Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.”
Tyler Neish is a favourite character in the DCI Logan Books and in the Robert Hoon novels. This is his back story, or at least part of it. He is a new recruit on the Inverness police force, and he wants to make his mark. Unfortunately he seems as good at messing up, and not following orders as he is eager and determined. Not a great combination. But when a mates sister is missing and no one seems to be taking it seriously, he is willing to break the rules because it is personal.
This story is very different than the rest of the series in that it goes back in time. It gives us a look at a very green Neish. A much younger Detective Superintendent Robert Hoon, Chief Inspector Samuel ‘Snecky’ Grant, DI Ben Forde, and even Dave Davidson. So we encounter a number of the regulars an see them in a different light.
I read most of this while travelling over the holidays. It is a great read, and I really hope Kirk releases more stories like this giving us more insight into Neish or even other members of the team. I love the three series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk and they are definitely Scottish Mysteries, or Scottish Police Crime novels. This story is not as dark or gritty as many written by Kirk, but it is a great expansion of the Scottish Crime novels he writes. A really good story I can easily recommend! Give it a read at Neish tried to figure out how he will handle his first dead body on the job.
December 21, 2025
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ pretty much ate this up as its a standalone novella of one of my fave series!!
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.
First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series.
This was a surprise release, I heard about it from the J.D Kirk newsletter and of course the minute it was released I borrowed it from KU and started reading it. I really liked it… because I, A) love this series/world whatever you want to call it and B) always like a good novella to keep me in the game between books.
This was no different. The writing is as always, the same as the Logan novels and in the style that I have grown to love. I also liked the look backwards, at Tyler’s first days on the job, how he came to be and how he came to know some of the pivotal chracters that are in the Logan series.
Tyler is of course, always Tyler like a loveable but stupid Afghan hound… you can’t help slap your head at his stupidity but laugh and aww along at his giant heart.
This novella like the series is no different in style, there is plenty of hard topics, bit of death and thrills, but plenty of laughs and with Hoon… an absolute shit tonne of swearing!!!
Overall, if you have read and loved this series, definitely read it. If you haven’t tried this series its a good short foray into it so give it a go… and if you hate this series… well I mean do you … but probably don’t read it. Also not sure why you’re reading this review 🤣
Inverness, December 2015.
The streets are frozen, the days are short, and Constable Tyler Neish is entirely out of his depth.
Fresh out of training, Tyler is desperate to make a good impression. He wants to seem capable, commanding, and professional. Unfortunately, he’s mostly known for falling over in the snow and being terrified of his own shadow.
But when sixteen-year-old Laura Wilder goes missing, the job suddenly gets personal. To the weary brass at Burnett Road Police Station, Laura is just a low-risk repeat runaway who’ll be home by dinner time. To Tyler, she’s his best mate’s little sister, and he knows that something is wrong.
Ordered to stay in his lane by the bureaucratic nightmare that is Chief Inspector “Snecky” Grant, and threatened with grisly dismemberment by the terrifying Detective Superintendent Hoon, Tyler must make a follow orders and keep his job, or go rogue and save a life.
For Tyler, that isn't a choice at all.
Armed only with a notebook, damp trousers, and a near total lack of common sense, the rookie constable plunges headlong into the freezing city to uncover the truth.
But in the Highlands of Scotland, the truth is like ice—slippery, dangerous, and liable to break if you push it too hard.
First Among the Dead is a standalone prequel novella following the early adventures of fan favourite character DC Tyler Neish from the DCI Jack Logan series.
This was a surprise release, I heard about it from the J.D Kirk newsletter and of course the minute it was released I borrowed it from KU and started reading it. I really liked it… because I, A) love this series/world whatever you want to call it and B) always like a good novella to keep me in the game between books.
This was no different. The writing is as always, the same as the Logan novels and in the style that I have grown to love. I also liked the look backwards, at Tyler’s first days on the job, how he came to be and how he came to know some of the pivotal chracters that are in the Logan series.
Tyler is of course, always Tyler like a loveable but stupid Afghan hound… you can’t help slap your head at his stupidity but laugh and aww along at his giant heart.
This novella like the series is no different in style, there is plenty of hard topics, bit of death and thrills, but plenty of laughs and with Hoon… an absolute shit tonne of swearing!!!
Overall, if you have read and loved this series, definitely read it. If you haven’t tried this series its a good short foray into it so give it a go… and if you hate this series… well I mean do you … but probably don’t read it. Also not sure why you’re reading this review 🤣
December 27, 2025
So, this is what happens when an author has an idea for a prequel, writes it in four days, and publishes it instantly. I always knew that Barry was a superb writer, but this cements that knowledge. ‘First Among the Dead’ is a Tyler Neish prequel that sees him deal with a missing girl. But he has only been on the job for a few weeks, so what can he actually do…well, quite a lot, it seems. If you are new to the Loganverse, this is a brilliant introduction to the series, and if you are a devoted fan, you will love this novella! It is packed full of Easter eggs, cameos from characters, and a brilliant mystery to boot.
As one of those devotees, it was a real treat to see Tyler at the start of his career. He is the same bumbling character we love, but somehow a tad more confident and idealistic. The shine of the job hasn't worn off yet. Plus, the missing girl is his friend's sister, so it's personal. Tyler is like a bloodhound in this story, and he won’t stop until he has found Laura.
I flew through this in a couple of hours, and now I want more early Tyler stories! With JD Kirk, one is never enough. The passion for this story shone through every word and page, and it made a real difference in the reading experience. It was tautly plotted, punchy, and just a brilliant read!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
December 14, 2025
I loved First Among the dead
I couldn't wait to read this, DCI Jack Logan and his team are go to crime favourites.
The unexpected chance to read about one of his team six months before the next book was too good to miss.
Tyler Neish, or boy-band, as I refer to him, is one of my favourites.
I love books with good characters and JD Kirk has them in spades.
Tylers first case has him unofficially tracking down a missing parson.
Sent to get details of a missing girl who has gone missing several times before, so his police chief is not too concerned, Tyler finds he knows the family and gets personally involved.
Could Tylers first case be his last as he defys orders to solve the case?
Or will he get help form an unexpected source?
I couldn't put it down, I also can't wait to tell my friend thisis out, she'll be thrilled. We are big fans of Logan and his team and eagerly await every book.
There are lots of good crime writers out there but for me JD Kirk is far and away the best.
I stongly advise everyone interested in crime novels to read the DCI Logan, Robert Hoon and Heather Filson series you wont be disappointed.
To JD Kirk, thank you, you brightened up my weeked more than you know.
I couldn't wait to read this, DCI Jack Logan and his team are go to crime favourites.
The unexpected chance to read about one of his team six months before the next book was too good to miss.
Tyler Neish, or boy-band, as I refer to him, is one of my favourites.
I love books with good characters and JD Kirk has them in spades.
Tylers first case has him unofficially tracking down a missing parson.
Sent to get details of a missing girl who has gone missing several times before, so his police chief is not too concerned, Tyler finds he knows the family and gets personally involved.
Could Tylers first case be his last as he defys orders to solve the case?
Or will he get help form an unexpected source?
I couldn't put it down, I also can't wait to tell my friend thisis out, she'll be thrilled. We are big fans of Logan and his team and eagerly await every book.
There are lots of good crime writers out there but for me JD Kirk is far and away the best.
I stongly advise everyone interested in crime novels to read the DCI Logan, Robert Hoon and Heather Filson series you wont be disappointed.
To JD Kirk, thank you, you brightened up my weeked more than you know.
January 13, 2026
Brilliant Tyler Novella
This was so much fun to read. I have always liked Tyler Neish’s character ever since his first introduction to the Logan series. This novella takes the reader/fan even further back in time to his first few days/weeks as a policeman in Inverness. All the things a reader/fan likes about Tyler are here on his first case - empathy and caring, duty, innocence, thinking outside the box/not linearly, running ability and clumsiness, and his determination. Tyler is quickly the butt of all jokes in thew workplace (from day 1) and a challenge to his superiors. However, we see Tyler evolve quickly driven by a sense of duty and care for a young woman (aged 16) who has disappeared but no one seems to take this seriously. Tyler is personally invested as he is a good mate of the woman’s brother and is a friend of the family. This serious crime story is told with typical humour and wit by JD Kirk. As a bonus the reader/fan discovers the first interaction between Tyler and Hoon. It does not disappoint. And we meet Snecky too (boo! hiss!) and there are other references to people and places that were satisfying.
This was so much fun to read. I have always liked Tyler Neish’s character ever since his first introduction to the Logan series. This novella takes the reader/fan even further back in time to his first few days/weeks as a policeman in Inverness. All the things a reader/fan likes about Tyler are here on his first case - empathy and caring, duty, innocence, thinking outside the box/not linearly, running ability and clumsiness, and his determination. Tyler is quickly the butt of all jokes in thew workplace (from day 1) and a challenge to his superiors. However, we see Tyler evolve quickly driven by a sense of duty and care for a young woman (aged 16) who has disappeared but no one seems to take this seriously. Tyler is personally invested as he is a good mate of the woman’s brother and is a friend of the family. This serious crime story is told with typical humour and wit by JD Kirk. As a bonus the reader/fan discovers the first interaction between Tyler and Hoon. It does not disappoint. And we meet Snecky too (boo! hiss!) and there are other references to people and places that were satisfying.
December 15, 2025
Myself, and many other DCI Jack Logan fans, were surprised to find a new release in the Logan universe. I thought JD Kirk had been keeping a secret incredibly well. After reading the latest newsletter, it turns out that not even he knew he was writing First Among The Dead, until a few days before it was released.
DC Tyler Neish is a firm favourite character within the Logan books, and this book is his time to be in the limelight. Tyler, new to Police Scotland, dreams of making a difference; this is in contrast to his allotted tasks of welfare checks, and manning the speed gun on local roads. He manages to stumble in to a missing persons case. Sadly, all of his colleagues seem to have written off Laura Wilder as an attention seeking runaway, everyone except Tyler.
This book confirms what I think we all knew about Tyler. He is inept and provokes much head shaking, he has the biggest heart and just wants to help; but he has a unique approach. His hair product love affair is already ongoing too. First Among the Dead is a must read for all Logan fans.
DC Tyler Neish is a firm favourite character within the Logan books, and this book is his time to be in the limelight. Tyler, new to Police Scotland, dreams of making a difference; this is in contrast to his allotted tasks of welfare checks, and manning the speed gun on local roads. He manages to stumble in to a missing persons case. Sadly, all of his colleagues seem to have written off Laura Wilder as an attention seeking runaway, everyone except Tyler.
This book confirms what I think we all knew about Tyler. He is inept and provokes much head shaking, he has the biggest heart and just wants to help; but he has a unique approach. His hair product love affair is already ongoing too. First Among the Dead is a must read for all Logan fans.
December 17, 2025
It's 2015 and we are introduced to new police constable Tyler Neish in his first days on the force fresh out of training. His duties include welfare checks on the elderly and speed checks on local roads, however when a 16-year girl goes missing, Tyler is instantly alerted as he knows her and her family and despite warnings from his bosses, he can't help but make his own enquiries.
A prequel to the DCI Logan series involving one of best and most likeable characters was a nice surprise and although its a relatively short novella, there's a lot packed in including the Neish traits we all know - especially his dogged enthusiasm - as he is determined to follow his instincts. There are also brief appearances from many other characters from the series, notably a certain Robert Hoon! All told, a welcomed prequel, tightly written and with plenty of humour mixed in with the investigation.
A prequel to the DCI Logan series involving one of best and most likeable characters was a nice surprise and although its a relatively short novella, there's a lot packed in including the Neish traits we all know - especially his dogged enthusiasm - as he is determined to follow his instincts. There are also brief appearances from many other characters from the series, notably a certain Robert Hoon! All told, a welcomed prequel, tightly written and with plenty of humour mixed in with the investigation.
January 1, 2026
I’ve read all of the DI Jack Logan books by JD Kirk and love them. This book is a prequel introducing some familiar characters, but mainly answering the question Jack posed to Tyler “how did you get into the polis son? did they hold a raffle?
Well this book tells Tyler’ Neish’s story, of his first few weeks working at Burnet Road police station in Inverness. It tells the story of Tyler’s intuition, instincts and determination to do the right thing, even if it could not only cost him his job but means he might end up in prison.
A young girl has gone missing and no one’s too fussed about her as she’s done it before. But this is a girl and her family Tyler knows and he won’t ignore her.
The book is funny very sweary ( well Bob Hoon does make several appearances) and is a delight. I loved every minute of it.
More of Tyler’s first years on the polis please JD Kirk.
Well this book tells Tyler’ Neish’s story, of his first few weeks working at Burnet Road police station in Inverness. It tells the story of Tyler’s intuition, instincts and determination to do the right thing, even if it could not only cost him his job but means he might end up in prison.
A young girl has gone missing and no one’s too fussed about her as she’s done it before. But this is a girl and her family Tyler knows and he won’t ignore her.
The book is funny very sweary ( well Bob Hoon does make several appearances) and is a delight. I loved every minute of it.
More of Tyler’s first years on the polis please JD Kirk.
January 20, 2026
This book takes us back in time to when young Tyler Neish becomes a policeman. It’s not the same ‘boy band’ that we have come to know and love. He isn’t there yet. He is days in the job when he goes rogue and Hoon is his DCI . Hoon isn’t quite as funny in this one either but he is there and we all know who he is. Tyler’s old pals sister has gone missing and he is set the task to find out where she is. So off he goes and rekindles his friendship with his old pals and his mum and dad. Tyler believes there is something wrong but his bosses tell him she is a frequent flyer and she will eventually go home. He doesn’t listen and keeps digging until he eventually finds her and she is not alone. Who is he with? You have to read it and find out. It’s alright but wish I had read it before I got to know and love ‘boy band’
December 12, 2025
Loved this insight to our lovable if frustrating at times tyler neish! He manages within weeks of becoming a PC, to annoy both his Sargent and chief inspector, gets threatened with the possibility of losing his career because of his belief that not enough is being done to find a missing teenager, but he redeams himself at the end, by finding the girl, admittedly ending up in a sorry state .. which we've often seen whenever tyler is involved..at least in this one he 'wasn't almost hit by a train' just slugged with a shovel!! His introduction to Bob hoon was as expected - full of expletives! and DI Ben ford is already starting to watch the young policeman
A great way to see how tyler progresses in his career 5🌟
A great way to see how tyler progresses in his career 5🌟
January 11, 2026
First Among the Dead is a solid little entry and a nice introduction to Tyler, even if it didn’t quite hit the same highs I’ve come to expect from J.D. Kirk’s other books and spin-offs in the series.
It’s sharp, fast, and very readable; very much a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of story. I think the novella length works both for and against it. On the plus side, it’s a short, punchy read that gets in, does its thing, and gets out. On the downside, there’s not quite enough room for the humour to fully land, and that trademark laugh-out-loud banter felt a bit dialled back compared to the rest of the series.
That said, Tyler is an interesting lead and this works well as a stepping stone into his world. Not my favourite Kirk, but still an enjoyable, and one I’m glad I picked up.
It’s sharp, fast, and very readable; very much a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of story. I think the novella length works both for and against it. On the plus side, it’s a short, punchy read that gets in, does its thing, and gets out. On the downside, there’s not quite enough room for the humour to fully land, and that trademark laugh-out-loud banter felt a bit dialled back compared to the rest of the series.
That said, Tyler is an interesting lead and this works well as a stepping stone into his world. Not my favourite Kirk, but still an enjoyable, and one I’m glad I picked up.
January 11, 2026
First Among the Dead by J.D. Kirk is a highly enjoyable introduction to what I very much hope becomes a Constable Tyler Neish series in its own right. Set in the familiar Logan location, it’s great to see a few well-known characters from the Jack Logan books make appearances without taking over the story.
Tyler Neish, only a few weeks out of training school, is very much his usual dipstick self, which makes him both entertaining and endearing. His inexperience adds humour and energy to the story.
John Scougall's performance is excellent and suits the tone of the novella perfectly, bringing both the humour and tension to life with his narration.
A highly recommended listen, whether you’re already a fan of the Jack Logan books or completely new to the
series.
Tyler Neish, only a few weeks out of training school, is very much his usual dipstick self, which makes him both entertaining and endearing. His inexperience adds humour and energy to the story.
John Scougall's performance is excellent and suits the tone of the novella perfectly, bringing both the humour and tension to life with his narration.
A highly recommended listen, whether you’re already a fan of the Jack Logan books or completely new to the
series.
January 22, 2026
I really enjoyed listening to this novel once I got into it. The narrator does an excellent job with the difference voices and really is able to convey the emotions of the scene.
Kirk presents an explanation for many things in the DCI Jack Logan novels with this one. It now makes sense to me how a lot of little loose ends from the Logan series tie together. My only downside and why I left just 4 stars, was that the transitions between chapters are very abrupt. I don't prefer that writing style but, I do understand this was meant as a novela, and not a full length book. I always enjoy Kirk's novels and I've listened to all of the Logan series so far. I look forward to whatever Kirk puts out next in the Logan-verse.
Kirk presents an explanation for many things in the DCI Jack Logan novels with this one. It now makes sense to me how a lot of little loose ends from the Logan series tie together. My only downside and why I left just 4 stars, was that the transitions between chapters are very abrupt. I don't prefer that writing style but, I do understand this was meant as a novela, and not a full length book. I always enjoy Kirk's novels and I've listened to all of the Logan series so far. I look forward to whatever Kirk puts out next in the Logan-verse.
December 12, 2025
And he's only gone and done it again!
Every single character in the Logan series is like family now, even (especially sometimes) the ones we really don't like. I sincerely hope someone has had the foresight to secure JD Kirk in bubble wrap so we can have many, many more new memories in future. Another outstanding book to add more depth to already complex life stories within the MIT. Cannot recommend this book and the entire series (and the added bonus extras) highly enough. By far my favourites reads in my extended lifetime.
And if you haven't sampled the Audibles yet? You have no idea what you're missing!
Every single character in the Logan series is like family now, even (especially sometimes) the ones we really don't like. I sincerely hope someone has had the foresight to secure JD Kirk in bubble wrap so we can have many, many more new memories in future. Another outstanding book to add more depth to already complex life stories within the MIT. Cannot recommend this book and the entire series (and the added bonus extras) highly enough. By far my favourites reads in my extended lifetime.
And if you haven't sampled the Audibles yet? You have no idea what you're missing!
December 12, 2025
Brilliant. If you’re a fan of JD Kirk’s DCI Logan series, you’ll love this and will recognise a few of the characters. If you’ve never read any of Jack Logan’s cases, this will give you a taste of what you’ve been missing - good stories, clever plots, humour and the biggest potty mouth in Police Scotland. Tyler Neish (whom life had chosen as it’s personal punching bag) is a “just oot the wrapper” cop who risks his (brand new, ink not dry on the certificate yet) career to help a mate when no-one else takes him seriously. Despite being told then ordered to stay away by the higher ups, Tyler has a personal connection to the case and sets out to get answers. Highly recommended.
January 1, 2026
I am not usually a novella or even a short story fan but this proved to be a wonderful exception. It was funny and had a good storyline featuring one of my favourite characters, Tyler Neish. It also includes some of the other characters from the Jack Logan books like Robert Hoon and ‘Snecky’ to fill out the story of Tyler’s first case a a police Constable.
It had a good balance of action, tension and character development and the story ended with Tyler in trouble but still a hero, if an unlikely one.
I would definitely recommend this book as an independent read or as an introduction to the Jack Logan books.
It had a good balance of action, tension and character development and the story ended with Tyler in trouble but still a hero, if an unlikely one.
I would definitely recommend this book as an independent read or as an introduction to the Jack Logan books.
December 14, 2025
This was a surprise book and what a great one, just before Christmas too. It's a chance to see Tyler in action in the early days of his career.
As usual, it's hilarious and made even more so with the involvement of Snecky, Dave and particularly, Bob Hoon. It's a great insight into the character of Tyler and even though he's naive, his intentions are good and his tenacity shines through here. It's a short read but there's enough here to keep you riveted throughout. I don't know if there's plans for more of the same, but I hope so.
As usual, it's hilarious and made even more so with the involvement of Snecky, Dave and particularly, Bob Hoon. It's a great insight into the character of Tyler and even though he's naive, his intentions are good and his tenacity shines through here. It's a short read but there's enough here to keep you riveted throughout. I don't know if there's plans for more of the same, but I hope so.
December 19, 2025
I look forward to J.D. Kirk’s books more than any other author over the last few years, especially when Bob Hoon is involved. My only complaint this time is that I wanted more than a novella because the writing was so entertaining! I snorted laughing a few times, Kirk just has such a way with words. If you’re already a fan, you’ll love this. Having some of the other regulars pop up throughout the book was a highlight. If you’ve never read any of his work before, go ahead, you won’t be disappointed, and you don’t need to know any of the characters beforehand, this is a prequel novella.
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