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DCI Evan Warlow #20
Wilful Cruelty
A body, a silent street, and far too many people who already ‘know’ what happened.
With Warlow sidelined, DI Jess Allanby inherits a case that refuses to settle. Evidence is fragmentary. Motives blur. Senior officers care more about appearances than answers. Every decision is watched. Every mistake remembered.
As her team chases CCTV, scorched vehicles and reluctant witnesses, Warlow uncovers a quieter abuse of power — one built on manipulation, fear, and the slow editing of truth. The echo between the cases becomes impossible to ignore and hinge on the same uncomfortable truth — cruelty doesn’t always look like rage.
Sometimes it looks like strategy.
Wilful Cruelty is the twentieth novel from bestselling crime author Rhys Dylan, delivering the series’ characteristic precision and unease — recommended for readers of JD Kirk, Simon McCleave and Peter Robinson.
With Warlow sidelined, DI Jess Allanby inherits a case that refuses to settle. Evidence is fragmentary. Motives blur. Senior officers care more about appearances than answers. Every decision is watched. Every mistake remembered.
As her team chases CCTV, scorched vehicles and reluctant witnesses, Warlow uncovers a quieter abuse of power — one built on manipulation, fear, and the slow editing of truth. The echo between the cases becomes impossible to ignore and hinge on the same uncomfortable truth — cruelty doesn’t always look like rage.
Sometimes it looks like strategy.
Wilful Cruelty is the twentieth novel from bestselling crime author Rhys Dylan, delivering the series’ characteristic precision and unease — recommended for readers of JD Kirk, Simon McCleave and Peter Robinson.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2026
About the author
Rhys Dylan
25 books647 followershttps://www.facebook.com/Rhysdylanbooks
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
July 9, 2026
Once again I enjoyed the latest chapter in the life of Warlow and his friends.. I really enjoy Cassie as she matures. It was a little hard to follow all the characters as there were several with the surname and many exes.
June 20, 2026
Another enjoyable read from Rhys Dylan. I'm glad DCI Evan Warlow survived his heart surgery and that he had something to occupy his mind with the aid of his partner's daughter Molly. As usual he got to grips with it with ease.
I've taken a star off this time as I didn't find this case as riveting as his others. DI Jess Allenby was as proficient as always, as are the rest of the team. (Especially Rhys!) It just didn't grab me like it usually does. Maybe it was because Warlow wasn't front and centre in this? Probably. It wont stop me from getting his next one though as he is a firm favourite of mine.
I've taken a star off this time as I didn't find this case as riveting as his others. DI Jess Allenby was as proficient as always, as are the rest of the team. (Especially Rhys!) It just didn't grab me like it usually does. Maybe it was because Warlow wasn't front and centre in this? Probably. It wont stop me from getting his next one though as he is a firm favourite of mine.
June 18, 2026
Another great Warlow book
I've read every book in this series and thoroughly enjoyed each one! Other titles by the author are equally as good and well worth the read, but Evan remains my favorite character.
I've read every book in this series and thoroughly enjoyed each one! Other titles by the author are equally as good and well worth the read, but Evan remains my favorite character.
June 18, 2026
Interesting
Book 20 in the DCI Warlow series did not disappoint. I was pleased that Warlow survived his surgery, and that Jess successfully completed her first assignment as SIO.
Book 20 in the DCI Warlow series did not disappoint. I was pleased that Warlow survived his surgery, and that Jess successfully completed her first assignment as SIO.
June 15, 2026
Familiarity and close bonds
Another cracker taking you down unexpected paths, with such subtle understanding of character, behaviours, friendships and loyalties, that you want to meet the team. Thank you Rhys. Love this series.
Another cracker taking you down unexpected paths, with such subtle understanding of character, behaviours, friendships and loyalties, that you want to meet the team. Thank you Rhys. Love this series.
June 9, 2026
always love the characters
Have read each book twice. However this books plot, dialogue and pathway to story are left wanting much more…. Seems rushed. Not immersive and personal with any of the characters.
Have read each book twice. However this books plot, dialogue and pathway to story are left wanting much more…. Seems rushed. Not immersive and personal with any of the characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As the authors posits in his notes: "What happens to the team when Warlow isn't there?" Without Warlow, some people are sure the team won't manage their most recent case, another one that requires them to use the station at Haverfordwest, under the 'auspices' of Superintendent Huw Pendle. Warlow is recovering from heart surgery, but Jess Allanby is fully capable of running this inquiry into the vicious killing of Owen Roberts. Granted it's not as straightforward a case as would be hoped, but the team is quite up to the challenger, despite the Wolf not being around. Meantime, Evan is taking time to walk Cadi and being chauffeured by a willing Molly who's on break from Uni. But there's a mystery for them to solve as well - is TV presenter Emma Larch in real danger or has her sense of reality been forever skewed by the landscape in which she works? Once again, I read this book in just a few hours, unable to put it down and get other things done that really should have been done this weekend. The give and take of the team is always fun to be privy to, even Gil's strange turn of phrase (and Rhys' sometimes slow on the uptake response). Another good read, giving the reader, a view of the Welsh countryside and personalities that make it time well-spent.
June 12, 2026
Brilliant
Rhys Dylan’s books are addictive, enjoyable and will leave you feeling bereft when you realize the next one will not be available until October. Diolch Rhys.
Rhys Dylan’s books are addictive, enjoyable and will leave you feeling bereft when you realize the next one will not be available until October. Diolch Rhys.
June 9, 2026
Another good DCI Warlow novel.
I enjoyed this story. We got to know all the characters just a little bit better. I really like this series. The characters are likable, and the mystery is creative. I like the world the author has created. I’m already looking forward to the next book.
I enjoyed this story. We got to know all the characters just a little bit better. I really like this series. The characters are likable, and the mystery is creative. I like the world the author has created. I’m already looking forward to the next book.
June 7, 2026
Another great book in the series. Warlow is on the bench following surgery but that doesn’t stop him from getting involved in a possible stalking case, with Molly at his side. Back at the office, the regular team is now led by Jess and they have a brutal murder to solve. I couldn’t put this down for long. The narration of the audiobook was performed excellently by Tobias Weatherburn.
June 6, 2026
Back with my old friends at the Welsh Constabulary for Number 20. I’m getting really good at solving these crimes !
June 2, 2026
Book 20 in the DCI Evan Warlow Series and this one is a bit different. Regular readers will know that Evan was waiting for a heart operation. Well, I’m pleased to report that the operation is over and Evan is doing well, although it’s going to be a while before he’s back in the office. The team is still working out of Haverfordwest where Superintendent Huw Pendle isn’t making life easy for Jess.
Briefly, with Evan on sick leave DI Jess Allanby is senior officer. Owen Roberts, a former drug dealer, is viciously murdered by three masked men, after leaving a pub. Suspicions are that this may be payback for something in the past but his pregnant girlfriend is adamant that he left that life behind. Meanwhile, Evan and Molly have their own mystery to solve. Television presenter Emma Larch is in hiding whilst her stalker is handed his sentence. However, she still feels like she is being watched.
It’s a pleasure to be back with this fabulous team of detectives. As always there’s some storylines around things in their personal lives which always adds to the authenticity. It’s a good plot with some great red herrings and this time my little grey cells were a bit slow slowing coming to the correct conclusion. A good, exciting and entertaining police procedural.
Briefly, with Evan on sick leave DI Jess Allanby is senior officer. Owen Roberts, a former drug dealer, is viciously murdered by three masked men, after leaving a pub. Suspicions are that this may be payback for something in the past but his pregnant girlfriend is adamant that he left that life behind. Meanwhile, Evan and Molly have their own mystery to solve. Television presenter Emma Larch is in hiding whilst her stalker is handed his sentence. However, she still feels like she is being watched.
It’s a pleasure to be back with this fabulous team of detectives. As always there’s some storylines around things in their personal lives which always adds to the authenticity. It’s a good plot with some great red herrings and this time my little grey cells were a bit slow slowing coming to the correct conclusion. A good, exciting and entertaining police procedural.
June 10, 2026
Book 20 in the DCI Evan Warlow series but can easily be read as a stand alone, but I'd urge you to read the rest of the series.
Evan is on sick leave after having heart surgery, which I'm pleased to say when extremely well even if he can't drive or go into the office for awhile, but Molly is on hand to help him out.
DI Jess Allanby, Evan's partner is now heading the team and when an attack on a former drug dealer which results in the death of Owen Roberts the team have their hands full trying to figure out who would want to kill him.
And if you think that Evan is just sitting and home twiddling his thumbs or God forbid has taken up knitting then you couldn't be more wrong.
Whilst taking Cadi out for a walk, Evan is accused of spying on TV presenter Emma Larch who is hiding away in a remote cottage after being stalked by a 'fan' and is awaiting trial.
After explaining who he was and give Emma his card, he thought that would be the end of it but how wrong could he be?
Returning home he mentions his encounter to Molly, who can't believe that Evan had never heard of Emma never mind her being stalked.
A brilliant police procedural series with some fantastic red herrings along the way.
Evan is on sick leave after having heart surgery, which I'm pleased to say when extremely well even if he can't drive or go into the office for awhile, but Molly is on hand to help him out.
DI Jess Allanby, Evan's partner is now heading the team and when an attack on a former drug dealer which results in the death of Owen Roberts the team have their hands full trying to figure out who would want to kill him.
And if you think that Evan is just sitting and home twiddling his thumbs or God forbid has taken up knitting then you couldn't be more wrong.
Whilst taking Cadi out for a walk, Evan is accused of spying on TV presenter Emma Larch who is hiding away in a remote cottage after being stalked by a 'fan' and is awaiting trial.
After explaining who he was and give Emma his card, he thought that would be the end of it but how wrong could he be?
Returning home he mentions his encounter to Molly, who can't believe that Evan had never heard of Emma never mind her being stalked.
A brilliant police procedural series with some fantastic red herrings along the way.
June 6, 2026
Jess takes charge ..
With Evan off, recovering from heart surgery, Jess is at the helm in the office, when a call comes in that a badly beaten body is found in a secluded alley. As they follow threads that seem to lead in no direction, Jess is warned by the chief constable that superintendent Pendle is trying to undermine her case, and to watch her back where he is concerned. The team work through each angle thoroughly and finally one lightbulb moment helps them to fit each piece in place to solve the murder.
Meanwhile Evan with the help of Molly, gets involved with a celebrity who has been stalked and in hiding from the press, and who seems to be scared of weird happenings around her.
Loved reading this one, as it showed us Jess getting her teeth into a case as the one in charge, and seeing Evan taking things easy (if seemingly a bit impatiently) while recovering, making the most of his time doing the normal household jobs that he would have squeezed in his work timetable before. A great book that leads us to wanting the next chapter in Warlows life... roll on the next book 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
With Evan off, recovering from heart surgery, Jess is at the helm in the office, when a call comes in that a badly beaten body is found in a secluded alley. As they follow threads that seem to lead in no direction, Jess is warned by the chief constable that superintendent Pendle is trying to undermine her case, and to watch her back where he is concerned. The team work through each angle thoroughly and finally one lightbulb moment helps them to fit each piece in place to solve the murder.
Meanwhile Evan with the help of Molly, gets involved with a celebrity who has been stalked and in hiding from the press, and who seems to be scared of weird happenings around her.
Loved reading this one, as it showed us Jess getting her teeth into a case as the one in charge, and seeing Evan taking things easy (if seemingly a bit impatiently) while recovering, making the most of his time doing the normal household jobs that he would have squeezed in his work timetable before. A great book that leads us to wanting the next chapter in Warlows life... roll on the next book 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
June 12, 2026
as Good as it Gets
I think I might have missed book 19 but this one is every bit as good as the others with a complex plot that unravels quickly (subjectively) even though the book isn’t particularly short. The Dyfed Powys police unit continues to be familiar with the small group psychology including realistic banter very well presented. Somehow DCI Warlow has had a medical problem that required an operation and he’s sidelined by doctor’s orders, not surprisingly for someone old enough to have been brought out of retirement in book 1. His house mate (I’m hoping he might marry her later), Jess Allanby, takes over the leadership in this book when a man is brutally beaten to near death (he dies of his wounds later). It’s what would be called a gangland killing in New York. But there’s no motive and the perps have covered their tracks extremely well.
At the same time, Molly, Mrs. Allanby’s daughter from a failed marriage in Norfolk or somewhere near that in the northeast, gets interested in a celebrity stalking and draws Mr. Warlow into it even though he’s off duty. Great story, keeps you guessing till the last chapter.
I think I might have missed book 19 but this one is every bit as good as the others with a complex plot that unravels quickly (subjectively) even though the book isn’t particularly short. The Dyfed Powys police unit continues to be familiar with the small group psychology including realistic banter very well presented. Somehow DCI Warlow has had a medical problem that required an operation and he’s sidelined by doctor’s orders, not surprisingly for someone old enough to have been brought out of retirement in book 1. His house mate (I’m hoping he might marry her later), Jess Allanby, takes over the leadership in this book when a man is brutally beaten to near death (he dies of his wounds later). It’s what would be called a gangland killing in New York. But there’s no motive and the perps have covered their tracks extremely well.
At the same time, Molly, Mrs. Allanby’s daughter from a failed marriage in Norfolk or somewhere near that in the northeast, gets interested in a celebrity stalking and draws Mr. Warlow into it even though he’s off duty. Great story, keeps you guessing till the last chapter.
June 13, 2026
I truly adore this series of police procedurals from Wales. They have the perfect balance between gritty police investigations and the personal lives of the police team. The descriptions of scenic locations in Wales give you virtual tours of the country, culture and people. I have to admit that I would prefer to have DCI Warlow leading the team again since his heart surgery but Jess does a great job of taking his place. I appreciated the dynamics of the interfering superintendent who doesn't believe that women can lead investigations and just gets in the way. And the parallel story of the TV personality who enlists the help (light duty still) of Warlow and Jess's daughter Molly is interesting and I like how Molly is accepting Warlow's role as he mother's partner and the bonding continues in this story. The main murder mystery is messy and ugly with drugs and revenge but it comes to a good end.
June 24, 2026
Another in this great series
With DCI Evan Warlow recovering from heart surgery, DI Jess Allenbey is in charge of his team. This major crimes unit covers huge area and they often relocate to whichever site is closest the crime they are investigating. This time they are in the territory of a Superintendent who wants to have their unit absorbed into CID. There are also hints of misogyny. Jess doesn't succumbs his pressure and leads the team very well to proceed with the case.
This is a multilevel case, with lots of red herrings and twists and turns. There is also some gallows and general humour from the team. Meanwhile Evan is bonding well with Jess's daughter Molly and together they deal with a problem that a Celebrity, who has moved to the area, is having.
Another well written addition to the series, with some interest developments of the regular cast.
With DCI Evan Warlow recovering from heart surgery, DI Jess Allenbey is in charge of his team. This major crimes unit covers huge area and they often relocate to whichever site is closest the crime they are investigating. This time they are in the territory of a Superintendent who wants to have their unit absorbed into CID. There are also hints of misogyny. Jess doesn't succumbs his pressure and leads the team very well to proceed with the case.
This is a multilevel case, with lots of red herrings and twists and turns. There is also some gallows and general humour from the team. Meanwhile Evan is bonding well with Jess's daughter Molly and together they deal with a problem that a Celebrity, who has moved to the area, is having.
Another well written addition to the series, with some interest developments of the regular cast.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is another brilliant read in the series. You always know what to expect when the next book arrives and they never fail to disappoint. With Evan recuperating, Jess is SIO when a vicious attack on Owen Robbins results in him losing his life. Evan is not lying idle though. A chance encounter during a walk results in him being asked for help when a woman who is in hiding after some stalking incidents finds something weird outside her temporary home. He does look into things and is ably assisted by Molly.
Along with the main story here, I loved the blossoming partnerships that are prevalent namely Gil and Rhys which gets better with every book but also here between Evan and Molly. I really enjoyed the banter between the two especially with Jess working long hours on her investigation. There's plenty of twists in the main story and also in the stalker side story. Just brilliant overall.
Along with the main story here, I loved the blossoming partnerships that are prevalent namely Gil and Rhys which gets better with every book but also here between Evan and Molly. I really enjoyed the banter between the two especially with Jess working long hours on her investigation. There's plenty of twists in the main story and also in the stalker side story. Just brilliant overall.
June 14, 2026
I enjoy Rhys’ series!
Evan Warlow aka The Wolf is recovering after surgery so his partner Jess is running the team when a brutal murder occurs. The usual cast of Welsh Police are on board with some issues of their own but as always working to solve the crime.
Meantime Evan and Jess’ daughter Molly meet a famous person who is hiding from the press and is being watched. A side gig for the Wolf & lessons for Molly.
Only one book left in the series and I will miss these characters.
Evan Warlow aka The Wolf is recovering after surgery so his partner Jess is running the team when a brutal murder occurs. The usual cast of Welsh Police are on board with some issues of their own but as always working to solve the crime.
Meantime Evan and Jess’ daughter Molly meet a famous person who is hiding from the press and is being watched. A side gig for the Wolf & lessons for Molly.
Only one book left in the series and I will miss these characters.
June 15, 2026
My rating is 3.5 stars. I enjoy reading this book series. The main characters provide great continuity from one book to the next; the farther in the series that I read, the more I feel that I "know" them. Also, the Audible version provides a fine way to read "on-the-go"; the narration in the Audible version is quite well-done. This book had quite a few characters involved in the plot, and I didn't have a sense of character development with all of them, so this book wasn't my favorite in the series. Nevertheless, I'd recommend it, as well as this book series in general.
July 5, 2026
Well I have finished all 20 books. What a ride and read. I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one. The characters have their quirks and personalities which has been interesting to see how that developed. I have enjoyed the camaraderie between the characters. Especially between Gil and Rhys and not forgetting Molly and Cadi. All of the books have been so easy to get into and whilst wanting to get to the end of each one to find out what happens I have been sad also because I have enjoyed them so much. The storyline has never been boring or long winded. I am eagerly awaiting the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thoroughly enjoyed this latest book in the DCI Evan Warlow series. This one was different from the previous books; in a good way. Evan is sidelined for health reasons and Jess takes the lead on the case. It was impressive to see her and all the team members really step up and shine. Warlow is also featured dealing with a somewhat similar situation that shows another example of wilful cruelty. Highly recommended.
June 27, 2026
Good Read
Like the characters, so very much in this series, they are full and funny and loyal and smart. Love the stories especially being an American married to a Welshman . Some of the places such as Pentras ifan(sp?) He took me to see and Nevern and Swansea and other places, so it comes to life for me. I also enjoy the use of Welsh words and phrases so I can learn and share it with him. Diolch Mr. Dylan.
Like the characters, so very much in this series, they are full and funny and loyal and smart. Love the stories especially being an American married to a Welshman . Some of the places such as Pentras ifan(sp?) He took me to see and Nevern and Swansea and other places, so it comes to life for me. I also enjoy the use of Welsh words and phrases so I can learn and share it with him. Diolch Mr. Dylan.
July 7, 2026
This is the first book in the Warlow series that i have not loved. I just dont think it worked without Warlow at the centre. Also I frankly have never taken to Jess and I actively dislike Molly - really annoying character. Even Cadi didn't seem as lovable this time! The storylines didn't work for me - far too much about mobile phones and the subplot about the TV character I found frankly boring. Sorry to be so negative but there we are!
June 5, 2026
What can I say another cracking 5⭐️ read in the Warlow series. An author whose books I don’t even read the blurb for anymore as I know I’m in for a great read. Well written storylines, a group of characters that have been great to see how they grow throughout the books. I won’t rehash the storyline, read the blurb it does its job in giving you the general jist of the story.
June 8, 2026
Each book is better than the last!
I have to admit that DCI Warlow is one of my favorite characters. As a British Crime fan, these are top notch books.
Well written, with amazing characters, well thought out murders, and phenomenal writing, Rhys Dylan is a myst read.
I love that Warlow is back, and will keep on entertaining us for, hopefully, many more books!
I have to admit that DCI Warlow is one of my favorite characters. As a British Crime fan, these are top notch books.
Well written, with amazing characters, well thought out murders, and phenomenal writing, Rhys Dylan is a myst read.
I love that Warlow is back, and will keep on entertaining us for, hopefully, many more books!
June 25, 2026
Yes!!! Thank you!!!
I won’t give a thing away. Loved the focus on Jess and Molly. Appreciate the humanity of each of these characters. I have so enjoyed reading this series and the stories. Also, the history and Welsh language has been an interesting track. Enjoying learning new things.
I won’t give a thing away. Loved the focus on Jess and Molly. Appreciate the humanity of each of these characters. I have so enjoyed reading this series and the stories. Also, the history and Welsh language has been an interesting track. Enjoying learning new things.
June 28, 2026
Another great read and investment in captivating storytelling
The mood and pace of this book was slower, purposely and rightfully so. More involved in a
general theme of change and how each character deals with it. Also the crimes and who and why, keep you reading all the way! 😄
The mood and pace of this book was slower, purposely and rightfully so. More involved in a
general theme of change and how each character deals with it. Also the crimes and who and why, keep you reading all the way! 😄
July 22, 2026
Brilliant as usual
Brilliant as usual
I impatiently wait for each new book to be released.
Each individual in the team, adds to the overall enjoyment of every episode in the series. Storylines meticulous in their telling.
I have developed a fondness for the Welsh countryside that I really have hardly any knowledge of.
Avidly await the next in the series.
Brilliant as usual
I impatiently wait for each new book to be released.
Each individual in the team, adds to the overall enjoyment of every episode in the series. Storylines meticulous in their telling.
I have developed a fondness for the Welsh countryside that I really have hardly any knowledge of.
Avidly await the next in the series.
July 31, 2026
Warlow Lives!
It’s great that the Warlow stories will continue. The team takes over the gritty stuff in this story while Warlow finishes his recuperation at home.
Even though Jess faces some sex discrimination in the venue where they set up for this latest crime, she rises above it and she and the team prevail in solving the case.
It’s great that the Warlow stories will continue. The team takes over the gritty stuff in this story while Warlow finishes his recuperation at home.
Even though Jess faces some sex discrimination in the venue where they set up for this latest crime, she rises above it and she and the team prevail in solving the case.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews