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The DS Cross Mysteries #7
The Bookseller
THE SETTING
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
Perfect for fans of MW Craven, Peter James and Joy Ellis, this is the seventh book in the bestselling series, which can be read in any order.
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
Perfect for fans of MW Craven, Peter James and Joy Ellis, this is the seventh book in the bestselling series, which can be read in any order.
359 pages, Paperback
First published January 16, 2025
About the author
Tim Sullivan
16 books712 followersTim Sullivan is an acclaimed screenwriter. He originally read English and Law at university - the latter forced on him by his Dad - but instead he wriggled free of those parental ambitions and pursued his own, to make films. His writing credits include A HANDFUL OF DUST, starring Kristen Scott Thomas, WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD, starring Helen Mirren and Helena Bonham Carter, JACK AND SARAH (which he also directed) starring Richard E Grant, Judi Dench and Ian McKellen and LETTERS TO JULIET, with Amanda Seyfried. He is also a Television director whose credits include SHERLOCK HOLMES and COLD FEET and CORONATIONS STREET. He has written extensively in Hollywood in both live action and animation, working with Ron Howard, Scott Rudin and with Jeffrey Katzenberg on the fourth SHREK movie.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially-awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
He self-published the first two books and once they'd achieved over 200,000 downloads he came to the attention of Head of Zeus publishers. So thanks to all his readers for this success and their shared love of George.
The novels are set in Bristol in the south west of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force. Tim has now written the first four in the series with The Patient being published on March 3rd 2022.
Tim feels confident in his claim that he is the only crime writer around who has also co-produced and written a My Little Pony movie for Hasbro. MY LITTLE PONY - A NEW GENERATION is now available on Netflix.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel, the Emmy award-winning producer of THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA and PIONEER WOMAN. Their daughters live near by.
For more stuff about Tim visit his website www.timsullivan.co.uk
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially-awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross.
He self-published the first two books and once they'd achieved over 200,000 downloads he came to the attention of Head of Zeus publishers. So thanks to all his readers for this success and their shared love of George.
The novels are set in Bristol in the south west of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force. Tim has now written the first four in the series with The Patient being published on March 3rd 2022.
Tim feels confident in his claim that he is the only crime writer around who has also co-produced and written a My Little Pony movie for Hasbro. MY LITTLE PONY - A NEW GENERATION is now available on Netflix.
Tim lives in North London with his wife Rachel, the Emmy award-winning producer of THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA and PIONEER WOMAN. Their daughters live near by.
For more stuff about Tim visit his website www.timsullivan.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews
July 5, 2026
5-Stars.
It takes a specific kind of narrative confidence to turn a dusty antiquarian bookshop into a bloody crime scene and make the most gripping element of the story a detective trying to process a family illness.
Yet, in The Bookseller (DS George Cross Mysteries, #7), Tim Sullivan pulls off exactly this delicate balancing act, delivering a police procedural that is as intellectually sharp as it is emotionally grounding.
The mystery begins with a brutal juxtaposition. Ed Squire, a dealer in rare first editions, is found murdered in his Bristol shop. It is an environment built on silence, history, and meticulous preservation—the last place one expects raw violence.
Sullivan plays beautifully with the irony of the setting: the suspects are bibliophiles, collectors, and eccentric dealers whose extensive reading means they "theoretically" understand the mechanics of fictional crime.
Enter DS George Cross. For those familiar with the series, the detective's neurodivergence is a professional superpower; his brain operates as an absolute filter that rejects social clutter, emotional clutter, emotional manipulation, and red herrings, to focus purely on cold facts.
But this storyline introduces a brilliant structural wrench into perfect machinery. Cross's father suffers a stroke, and DS Josie Ottey, his long-time working partner receives a promotion that threatens to disrupt their established dynamic.
For the first time, DS George Cross is fundamentally distracted.
The personal upheaval elevates this edition from a standard procedural into a fascinating study of routine versus chaos. It was impossible not to feel for his pain as he struggled with the agonizingly unfamiliar necessity of relying on others.
The procedural details—involving forged historical documents, bitter ex-partners, and an angry oligarch—are expertly plotted, but the real tension lies in watching logic fail to fix a loved one's health.
Ultimately, this novel was a standout for me because it does not treat Cross's unique mind as a mere gimmick to figure out a complex riddle. By throwing him into emotionally unmapped territory while untangling a web of rare-book rivalries, Sullivan delivers a deeply human, incredibly satisfying mystery that proves this series has plenty of momentum left.
Narrator Finlay Robertson continues to mesmerize as the solo voice for the series. Perfection.
It takes a specific kind of narrative confidence to turn a dusty antiquarian bookshop into a bloody crime scene and make the most gripping element of the story a detective trying to process a family illness.
Yet, in The Bookseller (DS George Cross Mysteries, #7), Tim Sullivan pulls off exactly this delicate balancing act, delivering a police procedural that is as intellectually sharp as it is emotionally grounding.
The mystery begins with a brutal juxtaposition. Ed Squire, a dealer in rare first editions, is found murdered in his Bristol shop. It is an environment built on silence, history, and meticulous preservation—the last place one expects raw violence.
Sullivan plays beautifully with the irony of the setting: the suspects are bibliophiles, collectors, and eccentric dealers whose extensive reading means they "theoretically" understand the mechanics of fictional crime.
Enter DS George Cross. For those familiar with the series, the detective's neurodivergence is a professional superpower; his brain operates as an absolute filter that rejects social clutter, emotional clutter, emotional manipulation, and red herrings, to focus purely on cold facts.
But this storyline introduces a brilliant structural wrench into perfect machinery. Cross's father suffers a stroke, and DS Josie Ottey, his long-time working partner receives a promotion that threatens to disrupt their established dynamic.
For the first time, DS George Cross is fundamentally distracted.
The personal upheaval elevates this edition from a standard procedural into a fascinating study of routine versus chaos. It was impossible not to feel for his pain as he struggled with the agonizingly unfamiliar necessity of relying on others.
The procedural details—involving forged historical documents, bitter ex-partners, and an angry oligarch—are expertly plotted, but the real tension lies in watching logic fail to fix a loved one's health.
Ultimately, this novel was a standout for me because it does not treat Cross's unique mind as a mere gimmick to figure out a complex riddle. By throwing him into emotionally unmapped territory while untangling a web of rare-book rivalries, Sullivan delivers a deeply human, incredibly satisfying mystery that proves this series has plenty of momentum left.
Narrator Finlay Robertson continues to mesmerize as the solo voice for the series. Perfection.
June 6, 2026
EXCERPT: 'It's remarkable how much crime there is in the book world,' Cross began.
'What do you mean?' asked Sam.
'Well, the impression it gives, or maybe we as the general public infer, is of a polite, rarefied, well mannered, possibly old-fashioned, world. But look a little more closely, under the surface, and it's far from the truth. Fakes and forgeries have been going on for centuries. In modern times you only have to look back at Book Row in New York, theft was rife,' Cross began.
'That's absolutely true,' Sam agreed.
'Do you know . . .' said Cross, turning to Ottey. This always prefaced a small lecture from him about something which she knew nothing and suspected, at times, that he had only very recently become expert in. ' . . . that in 1920s Manhattan, Book Row was an enormous concern? Dozens upon dozens of second-hand bookstores were situated almost on top of each other. Cinema was in its infancy, no television, no internet. Books were the main cultural currency of the time. There was nothing else. Books had a virtual monopoly on the exchange of ideas. The market for rare books was developing, like the art market. And, as with all markets that have a financial value, the criminal element found a way to exploit it. The thieves of Book Row made a killing stealing from one store and selling to another. Booksellers were also at it. Prowling each other's stores looking for unidentified rare books they knew they could sell at a profit. Or a book they already had a client for. But of course, they became well known to each other and a close eye was kept on them. They could no longer steal from each other for themselves. So, they invented a system where they would walk around a bookstore and pull any books they were interested in slightly out from the shelf, or tilt them at an angle. Shortly after, a professional thief in their employ would follow them and steal the designated books for them.'
'Again, absolutely true', said Sam, who was enjoying Cross's knowledge.
'And then there were the forgers. The most famous of all was Thomas James Wise, a well-known collector and businessman, later discovered to have been one of the biggest forgers of literary works of all time.'
'Indeed,' agreed Sam.
'It's fascinating stuff,' continued Cross, warming to his theme. 'He was exposed in 1939. He'd sold a volume of Elizabeth Barrett Browning's sonnets, claiming it was a first edition from 1847. Two men called Carter and Pollard became suspicious and began an investigation. A forensic analysis of the paper, even back then, revealed that it was composed of chemical wood with a trace of rag, which could not have been manufactured before 1874. Also, the text was printed in a typeface of which certain letters weren't cut till 1880.' Cross delighted in this literary trivia. 'Then there were thefts from university libraries before security was tightened and technology improved.'
'That still occurs,' said Sam.
'Was Ed, to your knowledge, an honest bookseller?' Cross asked, changing the tone of the interview in an instant.
'I'm sorry?' Sam replied in shock.
'Did he ever indulge in any, shall we say, shady practices in the rare book world, Sam?' asked Cross.
'Whatever leads you to make such a suggestion?' asked Sam.
'His murder . . . .'
ABOUT 'THE BOOKSELLER': THE SETTING
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
MY THOUGHTS: George Cross is one of a kind. Impossible at times, but impossible not to love.
George has no understanding of the social graces, etiquette, or sarcasm. He says what he means and expects others to do the same. He has a razor-sharp mind, and his logic often leads him to places and conclusions that others miss.
The Bookseller has a complex plot involving theft, fraud, death threats and a Russian oligarch as well as complex family relationships. Initially it all seems quite straightforward, but George believes that something is quite rotten in the state of Denmark and veers off on his own tangents, much to the consternation of his publicity-seeking boss, DCI Carson, who just wants the whole thing tied up as quickly as possible with the first likely and most newsworthy suspect.
I had my own suspicions from early on as to who had killed Ed. But as it turned out I had fallen hook line and sinker for one of Tim Sullivan's red herrings, of which there are many. But I was very excited as it seemed for a while that my prophecy was correct!
George's personal life is just as intriguing as his professional one in The Bookseller. He finds himself challenged by illness in the family and is prepared to give up his job, when this case is solved, to help out. Does he? You'll need to read the book to find out.
George makes several personal milestones and learns a lot about himself, becomes more self-aware and is making a greater effort at the behest of his teammate, Josie Ottey, to be more aware of the feelings of others.
I love George. Long may he be written about.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheBookseller #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Tim Sullivan made his first short film before graduating from Cambridge University. His ambition to become a screenwriter was formed not so much by this experience but as an attempt to foil his father’s determination to turn him into a lawyer.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross. Set in Bristol in the southwest of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force.
He is the only person he knows who has played squash with the playwright Alan Bennett. (source: timsullivan.co.uk - abridged)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries, Head of Zeus via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Bookseller by Tim Sullivan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'What do you mean?' asked Sam.
'Well, the impression it gives, or maybe we as the general public infer, is of a polite, rarefied, well mannered, possibly old-fashioned, world. But look a little more closely, under the surface, and it's far from the truth. Fakes and forgeries have been going on for centuries. In modern times you only have to look back at Book Row in New York, theft was rife,' Cross began.
'That's absolutely true,' Sam agreed.
'Do you know . . .' said Cross, turning to Ottey. This always prefaced a small lecture from him about something which she knew nothing and suspected, at times, that he had only very recently become expert in. ' . . . that in 1920s Manhattan, Book Row was an enormous concern? Dozens upon dozens of second-hand bookstores were situated almost on top of each other. Cinema was in its infancy, no television, no internet. Books were the main cultural currency of the time. There was nothing else. Books had a virtual monopoly on the exchange of ideas. The market for rare books was developing, like the art market. And, as with all markets that have a financial value, the criminal element found a way to exploit it. The thieves of Book Row made a killing stealing from one store and selling to another. Booksellers were also at it. Prowling each other's stores looking for unidentified rare books they knew they could sell at a profit. Or a book they already had a client for. But of course, they became well known to each other and a close eye was kept on them. They could no longer steal from each other for themselves. So, they invented a system where they would walk around a bookstore and pull any books they were interested in slightly out from the shelf, or tilt them at an angle. Shortly after, a professional thief in their employ would follow them and steal the designated books for them.'
'Again, absolutely true', said Sam, who was enjoying Cross's knowledge.
'And then there were the forgers. The most famous of all was Thomas James Wise, a well-known collector and businessman, later discovered to have been one of the biggest forgers of literary works of all time.'
'Indeed,' agreed Sam.
'It's fascinating stuff,' continued Cross, warming to his theme. 'He was exposed in 1939. He'd sold a volume of Elizabeth Barrett Browning's sonnets, claiming it was a first edition from 1847. Two men called Carter and Pollard became suspicious and began an investigation. A forensic analysis of the paper, even back then, revealed that it was composed of chemical wood with a trace of rag, which could not have been manufactured before 1874. Also, the text was printed in a typeface of which certain letters weren't cut till 1880.' Cross delighted in this literary trivia. 'Then there were thefts from university libraries before security was tightened and technology improved.'
'That still occurs,' said Sam.
'Was Ed, to your knowledge, an honest bookseller?' Cross asked, changing the tone of the interview in an instant.
'I'm sorry?' Sam replied in shock.
'Did he ever indulge in any, shall we say, shady practices in the rare book world, Sam?' asked Cross.
'Whatever leads you to make such a suggestion?' asked Sam.
'His murder . . . .'
ABOUT 'THE BOOKSELLER': THE SETTING
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
MY THOUGHTS: George Cross is one of a kind. Impossible at times, but impossible not to love.
George has no understanding of the social graces, etiquette, or sarcasm. He says what he means and expects others to do the same. He has a razor-sharp mind, and his logic often leads him to places and conclusions that others miss.
The Bookseller has a complex plot involving theft, fraud, death threats and a Russian oligarch as well as complex family relationships. Initially it all seems quite straightforward, but George believes that something is quite rotten in the state of Denmark and veers off on his own tangents, much to the consternation of his publicity-seeking boss, DCI Carson, who just wants the whole thing tied up as quickly as possible with the first likely and most newsworthy suspect.
I had my own suspicions from early on as to who had killed Ed. But as it turned out I had fallen hook line and sinker for one of Tim Sullivan's red herrings, of which there are many. But I was very excited as it seemed for a while that my prophecy was correct!
George's personal life is just as intriguing as his professional one in The Bookseller. He finds himself challenged by illness in the family and is prepared to give up his job, when this case is solved, to help out. Does he? You'll need to read the book to find out.
George makes several personal milestones and learns a lot about himself, becomes more self-aware and is making a greater effort at the behest of his teammate, Josie Ottey, to be more aware of the feelings of others.
I love George. Long may he be written about.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#TheBookseller #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Tim Sullivan made his first short film before graduating from Cambridge University. His ambition to become a screenwriter was formed not so much by this experience but as an attempt to foil his father’s determination to turn him into a lawyer.
He has now embarked on a series of crime novels featuring the eccentric and socially awkward, but brilliantly persistent DS George Cross. Set in Bristol in the southwest of England, Cross’ methods often infuriate his colleagues and superiors “not so much a thorn in my side as a pain in my arse,” according to his boss DCI Carson. But his conviction rate, thanks to his dogged persistence and attention to detail, is the best in the force.
He is the only person he knows who has played squash with the playwright Alan Bennett. (source: timsullivan.co.uk - abridged)
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries, Head of Zeus via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Bookseller by Tim Sullivan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
January 26, 2025
“The Bookseller”, (book #7 DS Cross series), by Tim Sullivan
Solid 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another brilliant installment by Tim Sullivan!
DS George Cross is such an interesting character. To understand him you should read this series in order, as this book is clearly written for those who are following his development, otherwise you will not like him.
The story has a slow development, just like the other books, but the story is built on a very interesting way, which enthralled me completely. I just didn’t want to put the book down.
The premise was excellent and well executed, and the twist was brilliant.
It’s all about the storytelling. So engaging!
What I really like about this author is how consistent he is with his writing and storytelling skills.
Now I have to wait one year for his next book, “The Tailor”.
ebook (Kobo): 368 pages, 97k words, 57 chapters
Solid 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another brilliant installment by Tim Sullivan!
DS George Cross is such an interesting character. To understand him you should read this series in order, as this book is clearly written for those who are following his development, otherwise you will not like him.
The story has a slow development, just like the other books, but the story is built on a very interesting way, which enthralled me completely. I just didn’t want to put the book down.
The premise was excellent and well executed, and the twist was brilliant.
It’s all about the storytelling. So engaging!
What I really like about this author is how consistent he is with his writing and storytelling skills.
Now I have to wait one year for his next book, “The Tailor”.
ebook (Kobo): 368 pages, 97k words, 57 chapters
January 1, 2025
Book 7 in the DS Cross series, and this was actually the first one that I read. Enjoyed this so much that I now own all the others in the series. Cross is a rather unique detective who appears to be autistic - it may have been explained in prior books - he is a creature of habit with few social graces, and yet he is able to solve crimes by seeing, remembering and analyzing evidence that others miss. Here a bookseller is found dead on the floor of his rare book store. There are connections that lead this case in multiple directions and the solution of which is quite well plotted and disguised. I like the characters, and considering this is Book 7 of the series it certainly is easily read as a Stand Alone.
March 18, 2025
THE BOOKSELLER is the seventh novel in Tim Sullivan’s George Cross series, to be released on Kindle (and paperback) on January 16, 2025–an excellent way to get rid of the after-Christmas, mid-winter blues. It can be read as a standalone, or if you’re like me, a DS Cross devotee, as the next instalment in the protagonist’s complex life.
George is on the autism spectrum, which means he finds it difficult to relate to other people, although as the series has progressed, he has been learning how to better cope with the people surrounding him, thanks to the assistance of his colleagues. However, at the beginning of “The Bookseller”, George faces a crisis—his father has cancer. George’s father, Raymond, has been the one constant throughout George’s lifetime (George is now in his mid-fifties), and George cannot imagine an existence without him. His personal worries distract his attention from the murder case he is investigating.
The murdered man was a bookseller. Not someone who simply sold books, but someone who ferreted out rare books and manuscripts for wealthy clients. This is a strange world—people who buy books not to read but strictly to display, like paintings. From the beginning, I felt that the murdered man’s family was not telling the truth about everything, and to George’s credit, he felt so too, but instead of focusing on the family dynamics, he followed a wandering trail of possible suspects, including the bookseller’s main competitor, and a bizarre Russian oligarch. Eventually, of course, George solves the case, and although I didn’t guess beforehand “who dun it”, I wasn’t surprised either. I did like the way that the bookseller’s business affairs were wrapped up—or to be more precise, his father’s business affairs were settled, because the business was owned by the murdered man’s 90-year-old father, who would no longer be able to pass the enterprise on to his son.
There is a lot of subtle humour in all the George Cross novels. Not laugh-out-loud humour, but understated whimsical humour that I really enjoy.
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books in this series:
The Dentist (DS Cross, #1)
The Cyclist (DS Cross, #2)
The Patient (DS Cross, #3)
The Politician (DS Cross, #4)
The Monk (DS Cross, #5)
The Teacher (DS Cross, #6)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
George is on the autism spectrum, which means he finds it difficult to relate to other people, although as the series has progressed, he has been learning how to better cope with the people surrounding him, thanks to the assistance of his colleagues. However, at the beginning of “The Bookseller”, George faces a crisis—his father has cancer. George’s father, Raymond, has been the one constant throughout George’s lifetime (George is now in his mid-fifties), and George cannot imagine an existence without him. His personal worries distract his attention from the murder case he is investigating.
The murdered man was a bookseller. Not someone who simply sold books, but someone who ferreted out rare books and manuscripts for wealthy clients. This is a strange world—people who buy books not to read but strictly to display, like paintings. From the beginning, I felt that the murdered man’s family was not telling the truth about everything, and to George’s credit, he felt so too, but instead of focusing on the family dynamics, he followed a wandering trail of possible suspects, including the bookseller’s main competitor, and a bizarre Russian oligarch. Eventually, of course, George solves the case, and although I didn’t guess beforehand “who dun it”, I wasn’t surprised either. I did like the way that the bookseller’s business affairs were wrapped up—or to be more precise, his father’s business affairs were settled, because the business was owned by the murdered man’s 90-year-old father, who would no longer be able to pass the enterprise on to his son.
There is a lot of subtle humour in all the George Cross novels. Not laugh-out-loud humour, but understated whimsical humour that I really enjoy.
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books in this series:
The Dentist (DS Cross, #1)
The Cyclist (DS Cross, #2)
The Patient (DS Cross, #3)
The Politician (DS Cross, #4)
The Monk (DS Cross, #5)
The Teacher (DS Cross, #6)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
March 16, 2025
This is the seventh book in the DS Cross Thriller series, but it is the first one I have read. Tim Sullivan is a totally new author for me, but the title caught my attention as well as the cover. I love books and most things about books and libraries, so I had to pick it up. Also, with there being seven books already in this series, I felt like I was missing out.
Description:
THE SETTING
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
My Thoughts:
I have to say I liked DS Cross as a character and will probably need to go back and read more of the earlier books in this series. I enjoyed his quirkiness with his inability to handle social situations well. The mystery kept my focus, but even though I thought I knew all along who the killer was, I could not have been more wrong. The real killer surprised me to say the least. I enjoyed this book. The literary atmosphere and the ongoing feud among the booksellers provided the perfect backdrop for the story. The plot was intriguing with lots of facets - even a Russian oligarch. There were some red herrings and numerous twists. Anyone who enjoys a good mystery should enjoy this one.
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA | Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
THE SETTING
The body of a bookseller is discovered, lying in a pool of blood in his Bristol bookshop. Police have one question: how did the man meet such a violent, murderous end in this peaceful place?
THE CONFLICT
DS Cross's ability to dismiss red herrings is challenged by a worrying development in his personal life. Hopelessly distracted, he needs to rely on those around him in a way he has never been comfortable doing before.
THE MURDER PLOT
It may be a quiet profession, but it's full of passionate, ambitious characters who know the value of a rare book. Their extensive reading means they also know how to get away with murder.
But is that enough to fool the tenacious DS George Cross?
My Thoughts:
I have to say I liked DS Cross as a character and will probably need to go back and read more of the earlier books in this series. I enjoyed his quirkiness with his inability to handle social situations well. The mystery kept my focus, but even though I thought I knew all along who the killer was, I could not have been more wrong. The real killer surprised me to say the least. I enjoyed this book. The literary atmosphere and the ongoing feud among the booksellers provided the perfect backdrop for the story. The plot was intriguing with lots of facets - even a Russian oligarch. There were some red herrings and numerous twists. Anyone who enjoys a good mystery should enjoy this one.
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA | Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book through Netgalley for an advance copy.
January 13, 2025
ARC for review. To be published April 15, 2025.
2 stars.
DS George Cross is investigating the case of a dead bookseller found in his bookshop in Bristol. What happened and why?
This is the seventh book in a series about the autistic detective; I had not heard of the books before. I only chose this because it is about a bookseller and a rare book.
I found this a bit dull. I kept forgetting who the characters were and I didn’t find Cross compelling enough nor a good enough police officer to put up with all his nonsense (given the way he treats his superintendent I’m surprised he still has a job.). Maybe I would have enjoyed this more if I had read some of the earlier books, for example there was clearly considerable backstory with his mother which went completely over my head.
2 stars.
DS George Cross is investigating the case of a dead bookseller found in his bookshop in Bristol. What happened and why?
This is the seventh book in a series about the autistic detective; I had not heard of the books before. I only chose this because it is about a bookseller and a rare book.
I found this a bit dull. I kept forgetting who the characters were and I didn’t find Cross compelling enough nor a good enough police officer to put up with all his nonsense (given the way he treats his superintendent I’m surprised he still has a job.). Maybe I would have enjoyed this more if I had read some of the earlier books, for example there was clearly considerable backstory with his mother which went completely over my head.
June 9, 2026
*George is in a Quandary*
This is book seven of the George Cross Mysteries.
In this instalment, we follow DS George Cross and the newly promoted DI Josie Ottey. Josie, who’s always wanted to progress to a DI, hadn’t considered the possibility of moving elsewhere. For now, she’ll stay put.
The murder takes place in a bookshop, with the victim being the bookseller.
George’s personal problems re the health concerning his father are affecting him, and the story feels a bit slow until he regains his composure.
The story explores the darker aspects of book selling, particularly how far people will go to obtain rare books and manuscripts.
The suspects include Russians who had been threatening the life of the bookseller. There’s a hilarious scene when DCI Ben Carsen, aware of the Russians’ dangerous nature, devises a plan. He always enjoys being the centre of attention. George, who dislikes noise, opts to stay behind. With a tactical unit and other officers, he decides to arrest the suspect, but they manage to evade capture. DI Carsen’s dream of shouting “go, go, go” finally comes true.
Deflated, they return to the station, where George has arrested the suspect they were hoping to bring in. The damning evidence is due to the threats his heavies made against the bookseller’s life. Is he the culprit?
However, George discovers a past involving the bookseller, and he and Josie delve into it. What they uncover takes the story into a different direction and leaves a sour taste in my mouth as we witness someone defending the indefensible.
As always, George and Ottey make a fantastic team. I love how George, aided by his notebook brimming with Otteyisms, begins to recognise social situations and formulate appropriate responses. This is particularly helpful for him as a neurodivergent individual, as he often misses social cues. I have a soft spot for him especially during interviews when suspects remain silent or say “no comment” George is a master of repetition by asking the same questions over again and staring contests with the suspect, none of it phases him.
This is book seven of the George Cross Mysteries.
In this instalment, we follow DS George Cross and the newly promoted DI Josie Ottey. Josie, who’s always wanted to progress to a DI, hadn’t considered the possibility of moving elsewhere. For now, she’ll stay put.
The murder takes place in a bookshop, with the victim being the bookseller.
George’s personal problems re the health concerning his father are affecting him, and the story feels a bit slow until he regains his composure.
The story explores the darker aspects of book selling, particularly how far people will go to obtain rare books and manuscripts.
The suspects include Russians who had been threatening the life of the bookseller. There’s a hilarious scene when DCI Ben Carsen, aware of the Russians’ dangerous nature, devises a plan. He always enjoys being the centre of attention. George, who dislikes noise, opts to stay behind. With a tactical unit and other officers, he decides to arrest the suspect, but they manage to evade capture. DI Carsen’s dream of shouting “go, go, go” finally comes true.
Deflated, they return to the station, where George has arrested the suspect they were hoping to bring in. The damning evidence is due to the threats his heavies made against the bookseller’s life. Is he the culprit?
However, George discovers a past involving the bookseller, and he and Josie delve into it. What they uncover takes the story into a different direction and leaves a sour taste in my mouth as we witness someone defending the indefensible.
As always, George and Ottey make a fantastic team. I love how George, aided by his notebook brimming with Otteyisms, begins to recognise social situations and formulate appropriate responses. This is particularly helpful for him as a neurodivergent individual, as he often misses social cues. I have a soft spot for him especially during interviews when suspects remain silent or say “no comment” George is a master of repetition by asking the same questions over again and staring contests with the suspect, none of it phases him.
March 10, 2026
DC George Cross and the newly promoted DI Ottey are assigned to a case where an antiquarian bookseller has been murdered in his shop. There are more surprisingly sinister elements and drama than they expected in the world of old books. A Russian oligarch, shady dealings with some valuable historic letters, and a pregnancy from the past must be considered by George, who is also worried about his father Raymond’s health. This series is one of my favorites, and I look forward to George’s next case. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to review this advance copy.
November 7, 2025
I finished The Dentist recently and immediately ordered The Bookseller, because I fell in love with this series!
Although a lot of things have happened in books 2-6, this seventh book in the series is perfectly readable as a stand alone.
I was impressed by the fact that the author shows that even someone as George Cross can change (a little) without trying to turn him in someone else entirely.
And who doesn't like to read about shenanigans in the book world 😉.
Now I'm even more looking forward to read The Cyclist, #2 in the series. Atlantic Crime will be publishing this title in January 2026.
Although a lot of things have happened in books 2-6, this seventh book in the series is perfectly readable as a stand alone.
I was impressed by the fact that the author shows that even someone as George Cross can change (a little) without trying to turn him in someone else entirely.
And who doesn't like to read about shenanigans in the book world 😉.
Now I'm even more looking forward to read The Cyclist, #2 in the series. Atlantic Crime will be publishing this title in January 2026.
October 23, 2024
Hands up if you are part of the George Cross fan club!!! 🤚
George has to be one of my all time favourite detectives without a doubt. i absolutely love his little idiosyncrasies, his mannerisms, and the way his brain works. As a mum to a son with autism, i see so many of my sons mannerisms portrayed within George's character and the beautiful way Tim Sullivan puts the autistic traits across with George's character is just an absolute joy to read.
This is now book #7 in the series, and they just keep getting better. I've devoured each previous installment and loved every one, BUT out of them all, this has got to be the one that really had me scratching my head at times and second-guessing myself. It was a really complex plot with lots of layers that were peeled back slowly, teasing the reader with the 'whodunnit' the whole way through.
Squires Rare Books is owned by 90 year old Torquil Squire and now run by his son Ed, with assistants Sam and Persephone (Percy). Torquil returns fom a day trip to London to find his son murdered on the first floor of the shop, and Percy locked away on the top floor.
George and his partner DS Josie Ottey are called in to investigate, with the help of Forensic Investigator and George's number ones fan Dr Michael Swift. Trying to get answers proves to be difficult, with his family not being at all forthcoming, secrets being held tight to their chest and nobody seeming to believe there is any reason Ed would have come to harm...until DS Cross starts digging.
On a more personal note, as his work life once again takes over, George's father suffers a stroke during cancer surgery, causing him to reevaluate his work life balance and he takes the 'drastic' decision to hand in his notice. Will his colleagues manage to change the mind of the most informed and decisive man on the planet?
There is SO much more to this story, but i dont want to ruin it for anybody *NO SPOILERS*
Whilst I think new readers could easily jmpo right in and read this, I would HIGHLY recommend starting at the beginning of the series to fully undertand not only DS George Cross but also the dynamics of the team and family - you wont regret it!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC.
George has to be one of my all time favourite detectives without a doubt. i absolutely love his little idiosyncrasies, his mannerisms, and the way his brain works. As a mum to a son with autism, i see so many of my sons mannerisms portrayed within George's character and the beautiful way Tim Sullivan puts the autistic traits across with George's character is just an absolute joy to read.
This is now book #7 in the series, and they just keep getting better. I've devoured each previous installment and loved every one, BUT out of them all, this has got to be the one that really had me scratching my head at times and second-guessing myself. It was a really complex plot with lots of layers that were peeled back slowly, teasing the reader with the 'whodunnit' the whole way through.
Squires Rare Books is owned by 90 year old Torquil Squire and now run by his son Ed, with assistants Sam and Persephone (Percy). Torquil returns fom a day trip to London to find his son murdered on the first floor of the shop, and Percy locked away on the top floor.
George and his partner DS Josie Ottey are called in to investigate, with the help of Forensic Investigator and George's number ones fan Dr Michael Swift. Trying to get answers proves to be difficult, with his family not being at all forthcoming, secrets being held tight to their chest and nobody seeming to believe there is any reason Ed would have come to harm...until DS Cross starts digging.
On a more personal note, as his work life once again takes over, George's father suffers a stroke during cancer surgery, causing him to reevaluate his work life balance and he takes the 'drastic' decision to hand in his notice. Will his colleagues manage to change the mind of the most informed and decisive man on the planet?
There is SO much more to this story, but i dont want to ruin it for anybody *NO SPOILERS*
Whilst I think new readers could easily jmpo right in and read this, I would HIGHLY recommend starting at the beginning of the series to fully undertand not only DS George Cross but also the dynamics of the team and family - you wont regret it!
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Aria & Aries for the ARC.
April 14, 2026
Book 100 of the year had to be special so it had to be George.
The Bookseller will take a lot of us into familiar territory: an independent bookshop. When Torquil Squires arrives home after an afternoon at an auction house, he is horrified to find his only son, Ed, lifeless and lying in a pool of blood.
George and the team, including the shiny new DI, set about finding out why anyone would want to kill a dealer in rare and antiquarian books. It leads them into the often murky world of book selling and throw up several surprises along the way as to who the suspects might be.
Alongside the case there is a new face to get used to George's ways, another case going to trial and the health of George's father (Raymond) for George to cope with. George, forever practical, thinks he has the solution to the last one but will he make the right decision?
Another brilliant book from Tim Sullivan starring the positively perfect DS George Cross.
The Bookseller not only brings the team another difficult case to crack but also brings George even more personal dilemmas - not something he finds easy. With Swift continuing his adoration of George's methods, Alice in new pastures and the continuing presence of George's mother to deal with, this novel has its fair share of extra curricular activity to take on.
I have always said I dislike when authors bring the personal lives of detectives into a story but Tim Sullivan gets the balance just right. Plus George is so utterly adorable that I find myself looking forward to the other parts of his life outside the MCU.
Now on to the latest George Cross book: The Tailor.
Thankyou very much to Netgalley and Grove Atlantic for the digital review copy. Very much appreciated.
The Bookseller will take a lot of us into familiar territory: an independent bookshop. When Torquil Squires arrives home after an afternoon at an auction house, he is horrified to find his only son, Ed, lifeless and lying in a pool of blood.
George and the team, including the shiny new DI, set about finding out why anyone would want to kill a dealer in rare and antiquarian books. It leads them into the often murky world of book selling and throw up several surprises along the way as to who the suspects might be.
Alongside the case there is a new face to get used to George's ways, another case going to trial and the health of George's father (Raymond) for George to cope with. George, forever practical, thinks he has the solution to the last one but will he make the right decision?
Another brilliant book from Tim Sullivan starring the positively perfect DS George Cross.
The Bookseller not only brings the team another difficult case to crack but also brings George even more personal dilemmas - not something he finds easy. With Swift continuing his adoration of George's methods, Alice in new pastures and the continuing presence of George's mother to deal with, this novel has its fair share of extra curricular activity to take on.
I have always said I dislike when authors bring the personal lives of detectives into a story but Tim Sullivan gets the balance just right. Plus George is so utterly adorable that I find myself looking forward to the other parts of his life outside the MCU.
Now on to the latest George Cross book: The Tailor.
Thankyou very much to Netgalley and Grove Atlantic for the digital review copy. Very much appreciated.
October 22, 2025
I have waited forever for this book to release on audio and it did not disappoint! I love the narrator; he makes me feel like I’m both watching a movie and visiting with an old friend. DS Cross is one of my favorite characters of all time. He’s an autistic detective whose neurodivergence makes him immensely good at his job, while also not shying away from his interpersonal challenges. Watching him get better and better at navigating these has been gratifying. I liked the plot of this mystery—easy to follow, with a surprising ending.
September 11, 2025
Thanks to our public library system I’ve been able to read the first seven In the DC Cross series in a few weeks. In each book there’s a murder to solve (in this case a bookseller), always resolved in the end by Cross‘s obsession with getting things right, in detail.
In each book, the continuing characters evolve as individuals and in their relationships, which often take surprising turns that made me smile.
I’ve really enjoyed this series, will look out for his next books.
In each book, the continuing characters evolve as individuals and in their relationships, which often take surprising turns that made me smile.
I’ve really enjoyed this series, will look out for his next books.
July 2, 2026
So he took hold of Raymond's hand for the first time in over forty years.I've read later books in Sullivan's DS George Cross series. By now, I've become so captivated by George that I'm now set to go back into his history and start the series from Book #1.
I may have felt that Book #4 ('The Politician') was *slightly* less gripping than Books #5 ('The Monk') and #7 ('The Bookseller'). Nevertheless, everything I've read so far has been above-average and solidly gripping storytelling.
'The Bookseller' is as top-tier as 'The Monk'. Not surprising considering that both novels boast rather large casts of characters as well as plots elevated beyond merely complex. In fact, 'The Bookseller' may be a bit harder to keep up with. It becomes intriguing watching George more-or-less effortlessly navigate the narrative's shifts and swerves.
An added plus with 'The Bookseller' is the amount of information about the bookselling world and its history. I imagine Sullivan must have had a ball doing research. It's very rich territory - observing how books have historically been trafficked; their authors manipulated and exploited.
It's certainly sigh-worthy recognizing things like rich people selling off huge personal libraries that were maintained merely for their appearance and not at all for their content; the impressive-looking volumes suggesting a culture appreciation that simply wasn't there.
As well, Sullivan tramps in the troublesome cutthroat aspect lying in certain corners among connoisseurs of the past. Needless to say, it's eye-opening for those of us who have stuck to the belief that the rare book world has never been anything but quaint.
Simultaneously, what transpires between Cross and his father (facing a cancer diagnosis) jumps ahead of standard poignancy and is quite moving.
I'm not the kind of reader - esp. of mysteries - who tries to stay one step in front of the author and figure things out at the earliest opportunity. As a result, I could now kick myself (in the case of this novel) for ignoring the vague-but-still-present red flag flying earlier on. But I'm not all that hard on myself about it; I generally prefer being 'stupid' in the hands of the storyteller. I mean, whose story is it, anyway?
~ and, besides, in 'The Bookseller' there are many more surprises than I could ever have begun to sniff out. Very twisty.
Kudos, Mr. Sullivan - masterfully done!
March 21, 2026
I had read The Dentist by the same author in 2023.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This is my second read by this author. The Bookseller is a crime-mystery novel by Tim Sullivan, part of the DS George Cross detective series. The story combines a murder investigation with the quiet, intellectual world of rare books and bookshops.
The novel follows DS George Cross, a brilliant but socially awkward detective working in Bath, England.
A local bookseller is found murdered, and the case leads Cross into the world of rare books, collectors, and literary dealers, where secrets, rivalries, and greed are hidden behind polite manners.
As the investigation progresses, Cross uncovers that the victim had connections with several people who all had reasons to hate him — including fellow booksellers, collectors, and acquaintances.
The case becomes complicated because:
The victim was not well liked
The rare-book trade involves large sums of money
Many suspects are hiding the truth
Cross must rely on his sharp memory and logical thinking to solve the case. The main character is George Cross – A detective with exceptional intelligence but difficulty with social interaction.
His unique way of thinking helps him notice details others miss.
I would give the book 4 stars
Dr. Javed Rasheed
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This is my second read by this author. The Bookseller is a crime-mystery novel by Tim Sullivan, part of the DS George Cross detective series. The story combines a murder investigation with the quiet, intellectual world of rare books and bookshops.
The novel follows DS George Cross, a brilliant but socially awkward detective working in Bath, England.
A local bookseller is found murdered, and the case leads Cross into the world of rare books, collectors, and literary dealers, where secrets, rivalries, and greed are hidden behind polite manners.
As the investigation progresses, Cross uncovers that the victim had connections with several people who all had reasons to hate him — including fellow booksellers, collectors, and acquaintances.
The case becomes complicated because:
The victim was not well liked
The rare-book trade involves large sums of money
Many suspects are hiding the truth
Cross must rely on his sharp memory and logical thinking to solve the case. The main character is George Cross – A detective with exceptional intelligence but difficulty with social interaction.
His unique way of thinking helps him notice details others miss.
I would give the book 4 stars
Dr. Javed Rasheed
June 17, 2026
A bookseller specializing in valuable editions is found murdered. DS George Cross investigates in a case that exposes certain aspects of the book selling business that are sometimes cutthroat, unethical and dangerous. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone. However, the Cross family story does progress from book to book. If you don’t read the books in order details of the family might be a little confusing to you.
I like Cross (on the autism spectrum) as a character and I was interested in certain book selling shenanigans. There were a lot of red herrings and probably too many characters. I was a little disappointed by the conclusion of the case, which was a little boring considering what came before.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
I like Cross (on the autism spectrum) as a character and I was interested in certain book selling shenanigans. There were a lot of red herrings and probably too many characters. I was a little disappointed by the conclusion of the case, which was a little boring considering what came before.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
March 22, 2025
The rarified atmosphere of antique books…and murder!
Another intriguing murder mystery with DS George Cross and his partner Josie Ottey at the helm. Their chief DCI Ben Carson as always ready to jump the gun and announce to the media situations that needed to be back tracked on.
A bookseller of rare books is found murdered in the kitchen above the bookshop. His rather strange niece who acts more like a sixteen year old than in her late twenties / early thirties was downstairs attending to some display items and knew nothing.
Edward Squire was the son of well known and respected bookseller, Torquil Squire, the proprietor of Squire Rare Books in Bristol.
With George, we delve into the realm of all things rare books; collectors, including a Russian Oligarch, forging marginalia and signatures, and the selling of stolen goods.
It’s into this world DS Cross and his partner Josie, now a Detective Inspector are immersed.
(Let’s just say that promotion causes Josie and to some extent George some concern with a very DS Cross reaction.)
As well George is looking at how to care for his father Raymond. In the process he learns new things about himself.
As ever, a rewarding read.
A Bloomsbury ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Another intriguing murder mystery with DS George Cross and his partner Josie Ottey at the helm. Their chief DCI Ben Carson as always ready to jump the gun and announce to the media situations that needed to be back tracked on.
A bookseller of rare books is found murdered in the kitchen above the bookshop. His rather strange niece who acts more like a sixteen year old than in her late twenties / early thirties was downstairs attending to some display items and knew nothing.
Edward Squire was the son of well known and respected bookseller, Torquil Squire, the proprietor of Squire Rare Books in Bristol.
With George, we delve into the realm of all things rare books; collectors, including a Russian Oligarch, forging marginalia and signatures, and the selling of stolen goods.
It’s into this world DS Cross and his partner Josie, now a Detective Inspector are immersed.
(Let’s just say that promotion causes Josie and to some extent George some concern with a very DS Cross reaction.)
As well George is looking at how to care for his father Raymond. In the process he learns new things about himself.
As ever, a rewarding read.
A Bloomsbury ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
October 17, 2024
I love this authors books and George Cross is one of my favourite characters. He is such a quirky and endearing man whom I have come to immensely like. As the books in this series have progressed, we have learnt more about him and his past, and this book is no exception, peeling off another layer of his personality and letting us in a little more to his life personally as well as professionally.
This story relates to books and of course that greatly appeals to me being the avid book lover that I am but also, we are presented with a murder of a bookseller who is the business of selling antique books and as a massive crime reader these two themes joined together made this a delight to read.
This is a great series and even though we have only been given a small insight into this book with the first seven chapters, I will be purchasing it to see how George resolves this case.
I suggest that if you have not read this series before I would start at the beginning, as said above the character development grows with each book and I am sure you will enjoy them more if you slowly get to know George.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
This story relates to books and of course that greatly appeals to me being the avid book lover that I am but also, we are presented with a murder of a bookseller who is the business of selling antique books and as a massive crime reader these two themes joined together made this a delight to read.
This is a great series and even though we have only been given a small insight into this book with the first seven chapters, I will be purchasing it to see how George resolves this case.
I suggest that if you have not read this series before I would start at the beginning, as said above the character development grows with each book and I am sure you will enjoy them more if you slowly get to know George.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
January 19, 2025
I only discovered this series when I read book five, The Monk, book five but straightaway I fell in love with George Cross thanks to the skill and sensitivity with which the author has developed his character. George may occasionally come out with funny things but you never want to laugh at him because, although he may be pedantic at times, he’s essentially warm-hearted, loyal and has a strong sense of justice. Like a dog with a bone, George won’t let go of a case until he’s uncovered the truth. That may cause frustration for his superiors but his results speak for themselves. And some of them are quite happy to claim the credit for them.
At the end of the last book, The Teacher, George received some distressing news about his father Raymond and its consequences are making him question where his priorities should lie. As followers of the series will know, George doesn’t react well to uncertainty so he responds in the only way he knows, by immersing himself in an in-depth search for any fact he can find on the subject. It’s the same way he approaches investigating a crime.
There’s a potential change in his professional life too. His partner, DS Josie Ottey, has received a well-deserved and overdue promotion. George fears that means getting used to working with someone new. It’s not a prospect he welcomes because Ottey is the only person who really understands the unique way George’s mind works and give him the discreet cues about how to react to others’ emotions, something he finds difficult. It’s one of George’s endearing qualities (and he has many) that he’s tries so hard to work on this. An unprompted ‘thank you’ from George means a lot.
Luckily – although not for the victim – George has a new case to occupy his mind, the murder of Ed Squire, who has taken over the running of the antiquarian bookshop established by his father Torquil. As George and Josie undertake their investigation they discover the world of bookselling can be a rather ruthless business with booksellers competing to acquire rare titles for wealthy clients or to uncover hidden gems that the owners of libraries were unaware of.
But was the murkier side of bookselling, such as forgery and price fixing, or the anger of a disgruntled client, enough of a motive for murder? As George and Josie look more closely at the Squire family they discover a history of quarrels, secrets, relationship breakdown and recrimination. For example, Josie wonders about the oddly reserved reaction of Victoria to the death of her husband. Then there’s Persephone, Ed’s niece by marriage, visibly shaken at the death of a man who took her under his wing during a difficult time in her life and gave her a job in the bookshop. She has dreams, perhaps unrealistic, of making a success of the their recent venture into selling new books, the viability of which shop manager Sam Taylor has serious doubts about.
Modern day policing benefits from the use of technology but it also needs good old-fashioned skills of observation and deduction. This is where George comes in because nothing much escapes his attention. In fact, his observational skills result in a very important detail coming to light, one that pretty much no-one else would have discovered, except perhaps Sherlock Holmes.
Does George crack the case? Oh, of course he does but if you identify the culprit before he does, I’d be surprised. (Having said that, if you’re a student of Greek mythology, one name might give you a clue to an element of the plot.)
The Bookseller is another superbly entertaining and skilfully crafted crime novel. It’s also full of warmth and some quite moving moments. Please, please don’t let this be the last outing for George Cross because as Josie observes, ‘He was impossible at times but also impossible not to love’.
At the end of the last book, The Teacher, George received some distressing news about his father Raymond and its consequences are making him question where his priorities should lie. As followers of the series will know, George doesn’t react well to uncertainty so he responds in the only way he knows, by immersing himself in an in-depth search for any fact he can find on the subject. It’s the same way he approaches investigating a crime.
There’s a potential change in his professional life too. His partner, DS Josie Ottey, has received a well-deserved and overdue promotion. George fears that means getting used to working with someone new. It’s not a prospect he welcomes because Ottey is the only person who really understands the unique way George’s mind works and give him the discreet cues about how to react to others’ emotions, something he finds difficult. It’s one of George’s endearing qualities (and he has many) that he’s tries so hard to work on this. An unprompted ‘thank you’ from George means a lot.
Luckily – although not for the victim – George has a new case to occupy his mind, the murder of Ed Squire, who has taken over the running of the antiquarian bookshop established by his father Torquil. As George and Josie undertake their investigation they discover the world of bookselling can be a rather ruthless business with booksellers competing to acquire rare titles for wealthy clients or to uncover hidden gems that the owners of libraries were unaware of.
But was the murkier side of bookselling, such as forgery and price fixing, or the anger of a disgruntled client, enough of a motive for murder? As George and Josie look more closely at the Squire family they discover a history of quarrels, secrets, relationship breakdown and recrimination. For example, Josie wonders about the oddly reserved reaction of Victoria to the death of her husband. Then there’s Persephone, Ed’s niece by marriage, visibly shaken at the death of a man who took her under his wing during a difficult time in her life and gave her a job in the bookshop. She has dreams, perhaps unrealistic, of making a success of the their recent venture into selling new books, the viability of which shop manager Sam Taylor has serious doubts about.
Modern day policing benefits from the use of technology but it also needs good old-fashioned skills of observation and deduction. This is where George comes in because nothing much escapes his attention. In fact, his observational skills result in a very important detail coming to light, one that pretty much no-one else would have discovered, except perhaps Sherlock Holmes.
Does George crack the case? Oh, of course he does but if you identify the culprit before he does, I’d be surprised. (Having said that, if you’re a student of Greek mythology, one name might give you a clue to an element of the plot.)
The Bookseller is another superbly entertaining and skilfully crafted crime novel. It’s also full of warmth and some quite moving moments. Please, please don’t let this be the last outing for George Cross because as Josie observes, ‘He was impossible at times but also impossible not to love’.
November 15, 2024
Anyone familiar with the series won't need an in-depth review. This is a classic George Cross novel with an intriguing murder which Cross uses his skill set to solve. There is also a continuation of George's personal struggles with the failing health of his dad, the difficulties in dealing with his mother's return (these aren't spoilers) and various other issues which George, who is on the spectrum, finds difficult to navigate.
Another great book in the series and I like the character development of not only George but also the other main, and peripheral, characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, and Aries and Aries for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Another great book in the series and I like the character development of not only George but also the other main, and peripheral, characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, and Aries and Aries for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2025
I wasn't quite as gripped by this as I had hoped to be, having enjoyed the others so much.
Four stars. Would I read it again? Not sure
Four stars. Would I read it again? Not sure
January 21, 2025
Tim Sullivan’s The Bookseller, the seventh instalment in the DS Cross series, is a masterclass in detail, logic, and the captivating dynamics of human relationships. This engrossing police procedural immerses readers once more into the methodical—and occasionally exasperating—world of DS George Cross, part of the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) at Somerset and Avon Police.
The story begins with the body of a bookseller discovered in his Bristol shop—a peaceful sanctuary shattered by a gruesome murder. While the case appears perplexing at first glance, DS Cross’s distinctive investigative approach quickly takes centre stage. With his unmatched ability to disregard distractions and identify patterns overlooked by others, Cross—supported by his dedicated team—untangles the threads that lead to the truth.
What makes this series truly exceptional is not just its intricately woven mysteries but the thoughtful development of DS Cross’s character and relationships. As a neurodiverse detective, Cross’s Autism Spectrum Disorder is portrayed with subtlety and respect, shaping his interactions with the world and his team in an authentic and enlightening way. Over the course of the series, his relationships with colleagues such as DI Josie Ottey, Alice Mackenzie, and Dr Michael Swift have grown and deepened, adding warmth and humanity to the procedural precision.
DS Cross and his team hold a special place in my heart, and these books are always a pre-order for me. While each instalment stands on its own, the series is infinitely more rewarding when read in order, allowing readers to fully appreciate the evolution of its characters and storylines.
If you enjoy mysteries that challenge your intellect while touching your heart, The Bookseller is not to be missed. DS Cross’s world is one you’ll relish stepping into, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead.
The story begins with the body of a bookseller discovered in his Bristol shop—a peaceful sanctuary shattered by a gruesome murder. While the case appears perplexing at first glance, DS Cross’s distinctive investigative approach quickly takes centre stage. With his unmatched ability to disregard distractions and identify patterns overlooked by others, Cross—supported by his dedicated team—untangles the threads that lead to the truth.
What makes this series truly exceptional is not just its intricately woven mysteries but the thoughtful development of DS Cross’s character and relationships. As a neurodiverse detective, Cross’s Autism Spectrum Disorder is portrayed with subtlety and respect, shaping his interactions with the world and his team in an authentic and enlightening way. Over the course of the series, his relationships with colleagues such as DI Josie Ottey, Alice Mackenzie, and Dr Michael Swift have grown and deepened, adding warmth and humanity to the procedural precision.
DS Cross and his team hold a special place in my heart, and these books are always a pre-order for me. While each instalment stands on its own, the series is infinitely more rewarding when read in order, allowing readers to fully appreciate the evolution of its characters and storylines.
If you enjoy mysteries that challenge your intellect while touching your heart, The Bookseller is not to be missed. DS Cross’s world is one you’ll relish stepping into, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead.
June 10, 2026
I still like the series, but this installment rehashes storylines from other earlier books and is far more predictable in its plot twists and turns. Reading the series in sequence is a must—much of this would make no sense to a reader picking it up without any familiarity with the continuing characters and prior developments over the course of the previous novels.
March 3, 2025
Should have written notes on the book right away after finishing but did so during sleepless night and then stuff happened.
Maybe I will revisit it again in a year or so when I am not preoccupied with death in family. We shall see.
$1.99 on Amazon right now
Maybe I will revisit it again in a year or so when I am not preoccupied with death in family. We shall see.
$1.99 on Amazon right now
March 10, 2025
4.0 / 5.0
A classic from Tim Sullivan following from the events of the last book, I’ve found that as I’ve followed the George Cross series the character development is evident and endearing to see. This time we see him coping with the health of his father and more familial issues, coming to terms with work life balance between work and taking care of his family - something I can definitely relate to at points. But that being said, and it definitely will be an outlier I didn’t enjoy the plot as much- I found it slow in the build up, but repetitive going round in circles more than actual story development. If it wasn’t one person, there would be another reason and it felt like a big circle. And it would return back to the same point but this time someone else was responsible - that being said the way this is set up will always make the perpetrator unpredictable which I do think is a little gimmicky. Which ultimately had me questioning whether this could be the endgame for the series? You can only go so far with the plot, it has got me thinking about what the next book will be and next battle cross will face.
The book follows Cross and Ottey as this time they are tasked with establishing who was responsible for the murder of a bookseller in his own bookshop in Bristol. There’s alot more than what means the eye, and as Cross starts to make headspace more is unraveled- it gets darker. (Warning there is mention of child grooming/paedophilic behaviours in this book - so if it’s not your cup of tea, best to give this a skip). Overall it’s not a bad read, it’s a steady reliable read that will you can depend on for a good read!
A classic from Tim Sullivan following from the events of the last book, I’ve found that as I’ve followed the George Cross series the character development is evident and endearing to see. This time we see him coping with the health of his father and more familial issues, coming to terms with work life balance between work and taking care of his family - something I can definitely relate to at points. But that being said, and it definitely will be an outlier I didn’t enjoy the plot as much- I found it slow in the build up, but repetitive going round in circles more than actual story development. If it wasn’t one person, there would be another reason and it felt like a big circle. And it would return back to the same point but this time someone else was responsible - that being said the way this is set up will always make the perpetrator unpredictable which I do think is a little gimmicky. Which ultimately had me questioning whether this could be the endgame for the series? You can only go so far with the plot, it has got me thinking about what the next book will be and next battle cross will face.
The book follows Cross and Ottey as this time they are tasked with establishing who was responsible for the murder of a bookseller in his own bookshop in Bristol. There’s alot more than what means the eye, and as Cross starts to make headspace more is unraveled- it gets darker. (Warning there is mention of child grooming/paedophilic behaviours in this book - so if it’s not your cup of tea, best to give this a skip). Overall it’s not a bad read, it’s a steady reliable read that will you can depend on for a good read!
February 6, 2025
I love George Cross and this whole series.
This book was my least favourite. I really don’t know why and despite the subject and some of the charming quotes at the start I just couldn’t fall in love with this one. I’m actually pretty sad about it. I had flu and was feeling sick and miserable when I read it, So will be re reading it soon to see if my opinion changes. Regardless. I am still a huge fan .
This book was my least favourite. I really don’t know why and despite the subject and some of the charming quotes at the start I just couldn’t fall in love with this one. I’m actually pretty sad about it. I had flu and was feeling sick and miserable when I read it, So will be re reading it soon to see if my opinion changes. Regardless. I am still a huge fan .
January 16, 2025
DS George Cross is clever beyond doubt, with a fascinating mind and a highly irritating personality, which in a book is simply charming and loveable, but I suspect in real life could be excruciating to deal with. I'm not sure I could work with him!
However, I only ever wish George well, always wanting him to come up trumps and solve the murder, which of course he does. Whilst he is an original and highly entertaining creation of the author, the support cast are amazing in themselves and serve to show just how vital they are in helping a neurodivergent adult navigate the challenges of their world, the relationships, the expectations, and the social niceties that just don't figure in the mind without someone explaining them.
This latest book in the series is just as much a pleasure to read as the others, if a bit confusing at times. I love how Tim Sullivan chooses a new occupation for each book and hope he doesn't run out of job titles!
I truly want George, his father Raymond and his police partner Josie to live forever. It is the dialogue they engage in which is funny and entertaining, but also makes you realise just how tough it can be when you don't interpret the world around you in the same way as the majority.
I read The Bookseller along with fellow readers on a platform called Pigeonhole. Pigeonhole is soon to be no more, sadly, but it has been a pleasure to read so many great books (and a few not so great) with them.
If you haven't read a DS George Cross book, do. You'll be hooked!
However, I only ever wish George well, always wanting him to come up trumps and solve the murder, which of course he does. Whilst he is an original and highly entertaining creation of the author, the support cast are amazing in themselves and serve to show just how vital they are in helping a neurodivergent adult navigate the challenges of their world, the relationships, the expectations, and the social niceties that just don't figure in the mind without someone explaining them.
This latest book in the series is just as much a pleasure to read as the others, if a bit confusing at times. I love how Tim Sullivan chooses a new occupation for each book and hope he doesn't run out of job titles!
I truly want George, his father Raymond and his police partner Josie to live forever. It is the dialogue they engage in which is funny and entertaining, but also makes you realise just how tough it can be when you don't interpret the world around you in the same way as the majority.
I read The Bookseller along with fellow readers on a platform called Pigeonhole. Pigeonhole is soon to be no more, sadly, but it has been a pleasure to read so many great books (and a few not so great) with them.
If you haven't read a DS George Cross book, do. You'll be hooked!
June 15, 2026
The Bookseller is another brilliant story in the DS George Cross series. As always George just cannot let go of the case even though he's troubled by his father's illness and as a consequence, his mother presence is his daily life. The death of the bookseller has many leads by none of them proves to be strong enough to put someone in jail and through trial. As the investigation continues, George will learn terrible secrets about the deceased and his family and he'll find himself greatful for his father's presence and support throughout his life. He also starts to think about other life choices that might be in wait for him. Easy to read and entertaining!
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for the copy of this book.
I thank the author, his publisher, and NetGalley for the copy of this book.
May 4, 2025
Another five stars for an excellent series. Love the lead characters and it hasn’t become unrealistic or overly dramatic. Thank you.
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