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Roy Grace #22
Dead in Three Two One
Roy Grace is back in this gripping new instalment from number one bestselling author Peter James.
*****
23 million books sold.
Now a major ITV/BritBox show starring John Simm as Roy Grace.
Creator of Her Majesty Queen Camilla’s favorite fictional detective.
'Peter James is one of the best British crime writers and therefore one of the best in the world' – Lee Child, author of the Jack Reacher series
'Peter James is one of the best crime writers in the business' – Karin Slaughter, author of the Will Trent series
'One of the world’s most popular detective series' – The Guardian
*****
23 million books sold.
Now a major ITV/BritBox show starring John Simm as Roy Grace.
Creator of Her Majesty Queen Camilla’s favorite fictional detective.
'Peter James is one of the best British crime writers and therefore one of the best in the world' – Lee Child, author of the Jack Reacher series
'Peter James is one of the best crime writers in the business' – Karin Slaughter, author of the Will Trent series
'One of the world’s most popular detective series' – The Guardian
416 pages, Hardcover
Published October 20, 2026
About the author
Peter James
210 books3,927 followersPeter James is a global bestselling author, best known for writing crime and thriller novels, and the creator of the much-loved Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. With a total of 21 Sunday Times No. 1s under his belt, he has achieved global book sales of over 23 million copies to date and has been translated into 38 languages.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
Synonymous with plot-twisting page-turners, Peter has garnered an army of loyal fans throughout his storytelling career – which also included stints writing for TV and producing films. He has won over 40 awards for his work, including the WHSmith Best Crime Author of All Time Award, Crime Writers’ Association Diamond Dagger and a BAFTA nomination for The Merchant of Venice starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons for which he was an Executive Producer. Many of Peter’s novels have been adapted for film, TV and stage.
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Roy Grace #23 - 1/8/25
Brighton Pride is one of the town’s biggest dates on its annual calendar with 300,000 people descending to party, party, party, the largest such festival in the United Kingdom. Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is as busy as ever, but he’s currently pondering the necessary policing of the event, especially as there have been unconfirmed intelligence reports of a potential terrorist attack. Meanwhile, at the five star Royal Courteney Hotel, Albanian Dritan Dervishi is checking in, having requested and will only accept, room 326. The eagle eyed doorman Clarence Ashford just knows there’s something off about him and it’s not just his ghastly shoes, and he tips off the Head Concierge to keep her eyes open. As Roy coordinates the security the potential threat is more personal than he could ever imagine, as his old enemy and nemesis, Roel Albazi is plotting revenge, not just against Roy, but also his wife Cleo and their children. A few days later, as the couple get their gladrags on for a charity dinner at the hotel, they have no idea they’re stepping into a deadly trap. The countdown has begun, Dead in three, two, one.
The fact that this series is now at number 23 and still feels fresh and that I still want to read it, tells you all you need to know. By now these characters feel like old friends and it’s always good to have a few new additions. I never thought I’d say this as when the series begins all those years ago, Norman Potting is a character where you raise your eyes to the ceiling at the very least. He’s mellowed, is less un-pc(maybe!) but I’ve grown very fond of him and it’s a shame he’s not in this very much thanks to two ladies at the hotel and I’ll say no more. I like the humour too, especially in the dialogue between Grace and Branson which does occasionally stray into the cheesy but does feel authentic. It helps to relieve the tension.
The plot is carefully thought out, the storylines are good, they’re interesting and quite gritty and they blend seamlessly together towards the end. It’s quite complicated, but that’s a good thing in my opinion. There are plenty of twists and the end one is especially good. There’s plenty of tension especially via the countdown. It’s told at quite a brisk pace though not necessarily fast and that’s partly due to Roy Grace‘s reflections and delivery to the team. This does mean there’s some repetition and hence why it’s four and not five stars in my rating.
As always, I love the Brighton setting and somehow it’s even better during Pride as it adds an extra something. It’s a terrific series and it’s now televised on ITV and well worth watching. The series is one I’ll always want to read and can happily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Brighton Pride is one of the town’s biggest dates on its annual calendar with 300,000 people descending to party, party, party, the largest such festival in the United Kingdom. Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is as busy as ever, but he’s currently pondering the necessary policing of the event, especially as there have been unconfirmed intelligence reports of a potential terrorist attack. Meanwhile, at the five star Royal Courteney Hotel, Albanian Dritan Dervishi is checking in, having requested and will only accept, room 326. The eagle eyed doorman Clarence Ashford just knows there’s something off about him and it’s not just his ghastly shoes, and he tips off the Head Concierge to keep her eyes open. As Roy coordinates the security the potential threat is more personal than he could ever imagine, as his old enemy and nemesis, Roel Albazi is plotting revenge, not just against Roy, but also his wife Cleo and their children. A few days later, as the couple get their gladrags on for a charity dinner at the hotel, they have no idea they’re stepping into a deadly trap. The countdown has begun, Dead in three, two, one.
The fact that this series is now at number 23 and still feels fresh and that I still want to read it, tells you all you need to know. By now these characters feel like old friends and it’s always good to have a few new additions. I never thought I’d say this as when the series begins all those years ago, Norman Potting is a character where you raise your eyes to the ceiling at the very least. He’s mellowed, is less un-pc(maybe!) but I’ve grown very fond of him and it’s a shame he’s not in this very much thanks to two ladies at the hotel and I’ll say no more. I like the humour too, especially in the dialogue between Grace and Branson which does occasionally stray into the cheesy but does feel authentic. It helps to relieve the tension.
The plot is carefully thought out, the storylines are good, they’re interesting and quite gritty and they blend seamlessly together towards the end. It’s quite complicated, but that’s a good thing in my opinion. There are plenty of twists and the end one is especially good. There’s plenty of tension especially via the countdown. It’s told at quite a brisk pace though not necessarily fast and that’s partly due to Roy Grace‘s reflections and delivery to the team. This does mean there’s some repetition and hence why it’s four and not five stars in my rating.
As always, I love the Brighton setting and somehow it’s even better during Pride as it adds an extra something. It’s a terrific series and it’s now televised on ITV and well worth watching. The series is one I’ll always want to read and can happily recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Pan Macmillan for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
October 28, 2026
🟥 Three smart reasons to listen to "Dead in Three Two One":
1️⃣ It's Peter James at his finest.
2️⃣ It's narrated by Daniel Weyman.
As always, Daniel Weyman's performance was brilliant.
3️⃣ Unpredictible and unputdownable.
Difficult to push the stop button and predict the ending.
🟦 What especially wowed me...
DS Roy Grace and his team are dedicated, hands-on mavericks who blend meticulous, traditional police work with state-of-the-art forensics.
In this book, a luxury hotel used advanced, high-definition CCTV security cameras equipped with live biometric facial recognition to alert police about possible criminal activity.
When a dangerous criminal entered the hotel's lobby registered under an assumed name, the hotel's system flagged his criminal record.
Interestingly, these sophisticated cameras are not yet used in U.S. hotels but are used in U.S. casinos.
➡️ This is Roy Grace Book #23, and I have read them all.
Even though the book is part of a series, it is also a standalone read.
➡️ Eagerly looking forward to Book #24!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Roy Grace is back on more familiar territory after a brief stay at Buckingham Palace in the previous book. This time, we're back on the Brighton seafront and it feels much more like a Grace novel - Albanian gangsters, bombs, dead bodies and the police trying to crack the case before it's too late. The usual attention to procedural detail is added to with a look behind the scenes of a busy luxury hotel. Book 22 and still going strong.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Roy Grace is looking forward to a busy couple of weeks. First there’s the Pride Weekend. Brighton is packed and there might be trouble brewing. The weekend after that, Roy and Cleo will be spending a well-earned weekend together, with no kids, no obligation, just time for each other. The hotel is booked… But first, Cleo needs to deliver the key not speech at an important charity dinner.
What Roy doesn’t know is that his arch-enemy Roel Abazi ordered his nephew and consigliere Dritan Dervishi to carry out a devilish plan to take out Roy Grace and his wife for good. A plan where the Royal Courtney Hotel plays a big role in.
Like delving in a loved and tasty dish, reading this was. Roy and Cleo are there and much of their colleagues. The bad guys are there, and there is a beautiful hotel with a whole set of people working very hard to make the Pride Weekend and Cleo’s charity dinner a success.
I liked the descriptions of the hotel, the way it is being operated, and the variety of guests. One such guest is a very old lady, who’s rich, very rich. That’s why she is staying at the hotel permanently. Now she’s nearing a very high age, her children are afraid she will spend all her money on the hotel. Something they want to prevent at all costs. This makes a nice subplot and of course it plays a role at the ending of the book.
Some parts of the book were quite repetitive, and there was sometimes a bit too much information about characters who didn’t play such a role that it was important to remember this information, which made it a bit tedious. On the other hand, leave it to Peter James to entertain us with characters that, even for a brief period, come to live in the story.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
What Roy doesn’t know is that his arch-enemy Roel Abazi ordered his nephew and consigliere Dritan Dervishi to carry out a devilish plan to take out Roy Grace and his wife for good. A plan where the Royal Courtney Hotel plays a big role in.
Like delving in a loved and tasty dish, reading this was. Roy and Cleo are there and much of their colleagues. The bad guys are there, and there is a beautiful hotel with a whole set of people working very hard to make the Pride Weekend and Cleo’s charity dinner a success.
I liked the descriptions of the hotel, the way it is being operated, and the variety of guests. One such guest is a very old lady, who’s rich, very rich. That’s why she is staying at the hotel permanently. Now she’s nearing a very high age, her children are afraid she will spend all her money on the hotel. Something they want to prevent at all costs. This makes a nice subplot and of course it plays a role at the ending of the book.
Some parts of the book were quite repetitive, and there was sometimes a bit too much information about characters who didn’t play such a role that it was important to remember this information, which made it a bit tedious. On the other hand, leave it to Peter James to entertain us with characters that, even for a brief period, come to live in the story.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 23, 2026
Can you believe that this is the 22nd Roy Grace book! I requested this without even reading the synopsis, just knowing it was a Grace book was all that I needed to know..Now that we have the TV series which is brilliant I must say, I can’t read the books without seeing John Sim. I can’t wait to see this one on Britbox soon.
We are back in Brighton and it is Brighton Pride weekend, it is one of the busiest times in the seaside town and police have their hands full keeping everyone safe and out of trouble. The action is centred around the Royal Courtney Hotel, where a man has checked in with his “girlfriend “ and a very heavy suitcase. While all this is happening, we have a brother and sister who are planning an evil plot against their wealthy mother. Trouble soon comes when a body part is located.. but where is the rest of the body?
Peter James has a fantastic way of mixing humour in with the tension and darkness. I just love the suspense and the vast amount of research that he does to get his stories so accurate in the details. His characters are like family now, and I did have some concerns over one of my favourites in this story. We saw a different side to another series regular that turned me off them as well.
As always it was brilliantly executed, with plenty of clues and red herrings along the way. It was a book that I didn’t want to stop reading, that had me thinking about it when I wasn’t able to read it.
Another fabulous read from Peter James
Thanks so much to Pan Macmillan for the early copy, always such a thrill. Publishing on October 20th, fans of the series are going to eat this up,.
We are back in Brighton and it is Brighton Pride weekend, it is one of the busiest times in the seaside town and police have their hands full keeping everyone safe and out of trouble. The action is centred around the Royal Courtney Hotel, where a man has checked in with his “girlfriend “ and a very heavy suitcase. While all this is happening, we have a brother and sister who are planning an evil plot against their wealthy mother. Trouble soon comes when a body part is located.. but where is the rest of the body?
Peter James has a fantastic way of mixing humour in with the tension and darkness. I just love the suspense and the vast amount of research that he does to get his stories so accurate in the details. His characters are like family now, and I did have some concerns over one of my favourites in this story. We saw a different side to another series regular that turned me off them as well.
As always it was brilliantly executed, with plenty of clues and red herrings along the way. It was a book that I didn’t want to stop reading, that had me thinking about it when I wasn’t able to read it.
Another fabulous read from Peter James
Thanks so much to Pan Macmillan for the early copy, always such a thrill. Publishing on October 20th, fans of the series are going to eat this up,.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dead in Three Two One is the twenty third book in the Roy Grace series by Peter James.
Brighton Pride is in full swing, bringing half a million partygoers to the city streets. But behind the scenes at the grand Royal Courteney Hotel, a terrifying plot is unfolding.
Dritan Dervishi, the ruthless consigliere for Albanian mob boss Roel Albazi, has checked into Room 321—a room chosen for its perfect viewpoint and deadly proximity to his target. Meanwhile, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is already stretched to his limits managing the massive security operation for Pride, amid terrifying whispers of a potential terrorist threat.
What Roy doesn’t realise is how deeply personal this threat actually is. Locked away in a prison cell, his old nemesis Albazi is orchestrating a cold-blooded revenge scheme designed to wipe out Roy and his entire family. When Roy and his wife Cleo head to the Royal Courteney for a night of celebration, they are walking straight into a meticulously planned trap. As the countdown ticks toward zero, Roy faces a race against time to protect the people he loves most.
This is another remarkably strong addition to an already celebrated series. Peter James has crafted a wonderfully well-thought-out plot that builds an incredible amount of suspense right from the opening pages. The ticking-clock element keeps you turned to the edge of your seat as the countdown to Room 321 nears zero.
One of the greatest joys of reading a new Roy Grace novel is how wonderfully familiar the characters feel. Whether you’ve followed them through the books or watched them on the television adaptation, stepping back into Roy’s world feels like catching up with old friends. Roy Grace continues to be such a fantastic, grounded lead detective, and he is backed up as brilliantly as ever by Norman Potting and Glenn Branson. The team dynamic remains one of the absolute highlights of this series.
It’s incredible that after so many books, this series is as strong as ever and shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. Peter James continues to deliver top-tier crime fiction that feels fresh, high-stakes, and hugely enjoyable.
Dead in Three Two One is a thrilling, masterfully plotted read that long-time fans and crime fiction lovers will thoroughly devour. Packed with suspense, brilliant character moments, and relentless momentum, it’s a solid four-star read!
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Brighton Pride is in full swing, bringing half a million partygoers to the city streets. But behind the scenes at the grand Royal Courteney Hotel, a terrifying plot is unfolding.
Dritan Dervishi, the ruthless consigliere for Albanian mob boss Roel Albazi, has checked into Room 321—a room chosen for its perfect viewpoint and deadly proximity to his target. Meanwhile, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is already stretched to his limits managing the massive security operation for Pride, amid terrifying whispers of a potential terrorist threat.
What Roy doesn’t realise is how deeply personal this threat actually is. Locked away in a prison cell, his old nemesis Albazi is orchestrating a cold-blooded revenge scheme designed to wipe out Roy and his entire family. When Roy and his wife Cleo head to the Royal Courteney for a night of celebration, they are walking straight into a meticulously planned trap. As the countdown ticks toward zero, Roy faces a race against time to protect the people he loves most.
This is another remarkably strong addition to an already celebrated series. Peter James has crafted a wonderfully well-thought-out plot that builds an incredible amount of suspense right from the opening pages. The ticking-clock element keeps you turned to the edge of your seat as the countdown to Room 321 nears zero.
One of the greatest joys of reading a new Roy Grace novel is how wonderfully familiar the characters feel. Whether you’ve followed them through the books or watched them on the television adaptation, stepping back into Roy’s world feels like catching up with old friends. Roy Grace continues to be such a fantastic, grounded lead detective, and he is backed up as brilliantly as ever by Norman Potting and Glenn Branson. The team dynamic remains one of the absolute highlights of this series.
It’s incredible that after so many books, this series is as strong as ever and shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. Peter James continues to deliver top-tier crime fiction that feels fresh, high-stakes, and hugely enjoyable.
Dead in Three Two One is a thrilling, masterfully plotted read that long-time fans and crime fiction lovers will thoroughly devour. Packed with suspense, brilliant character moments, and relentless momentum, it’s a solid four-star read!
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Roy Grace #22
Brighton Pride is the biggest date on the city's calendar with half a million people lost in the party. But behind the opulent facade of the Royal Courtney Hotel, a nightmare is checking in. Dritan Dervishi, the clod-bloodied consigliere for Albanian mob boss Rael Albazi, has arrived with a beautiful woman on his arm and a lethal secret in his suitcase. He has specifically requested room 321 - a room with a perfect view of the sea and proximity to a target he's been dreaming of for years. DS Roy Grace is already pushed to the limit, coordinating the city's massive security amid whispers of a potential terrorist attack. But the threat is more personal than he could ever imagine. Back in a prison cell, his old nemesis Albazi is counting down the seconds to a revenge that will not just take Roy's life, but erase his entire bloodline.
Book 22 and this series is still as gripping as the first book - Dead Simple. The plot is intriguing, all the usual characters were back and the tension starts almost immediately. The majority of this story takes place in the Royal Courtney Hotel where we meet some of the staff, guests and relatives. This is a fantastic addition to a wonderful series.
Published 20th October 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #PanMacmillan and the author #PeterJames for my ARC of #DeadInThreeTwoOne in exchange for an honest review.
Brighton Pride is the biggest date on the city's calendar with half a million people lost in the party. But behind the opulent facade of the Royal Courtney Hotel, a nightmare is checking in. Dritan Dervishi, the clod-bloodied consigliere for Albanian mob boss Rael Albazi, has arrived with a beautiful woman on his arm and a lethal secret in his suitcase. He has specifically requested room 321 - a room with a perfect view of the sea and proximity to a target he's been dreaming of for years. DS Roy Grace is already pushed to the limit, coordinating the city's massive security amid whispers of a potential terrorist attack. But the threat is more personal than he could ever imagine. Back in a prison cell, his old nemesis Albazi is counting down the seconds to a revenge that will not just take Roy's life, but erase his entire bloodline.
Book 22 and this series is still as gripping as the first book - Dead Simple. The plot is intriguing, all the usual characters were back and the tension starts almost immediately. The majority of this story takes place in the Royal Courtney Hotel where we meet some of the staff, guests and relatives. This is a fantastic addition to a wonderful series.
Published 20th October 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #PanMacmillan and the author #PeterJames for my ARC of #DeadInThreeTwoOne in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.25/5
While over half a million people celebrate Pride in Brighton, a killer is planning a deadly attack inside Room 321 of a luxury hotel—and main character Roy Grace is the target!
This is book 22 (yes, I know!) in the series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I used to read this series years ago and have recently started a re-read.
Reading this just after finishing book 1, it was so fun to revisit familiar characters and know they remain a part of the series for its duration.
The book opens with a map, which I loved, as they are a rarity in crime and thriller books. Because there is a lot going on in the story, I was initially a little overwhelmed. However, once I got going, I was hooked!
The chapters are short, and the writing style is very easy to follow. Everything comes together perfectly at the end. While the ending felt a little rushed, I still thought it came to a great conclusion.
While over half a million people celebrate Pride in Brighton, a killer is planning a deadly attack inside Room 321 of a luxury hotel—and main character Roy Grace is the target!
This is book 22 (yes, I know!) in the series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I used to read this series years ago and have recently started a re-read.
Reading this just after finishing book 1, it was so fun to revisit familiar characters and know they remain a part of the series for its duration.
The book opens with a map, which I loved, as they are a rarity in crime and thriller books. Because there is a lot going on in the story, I was initially a little overwhelmed. However, once I got going, I was hooked!
The chapters are short, and the writing style is very easy to follow. Everything comes together perfectly at the end. While the ending felt a little rushed, I still thought it came to a great conclusion.
September 15, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
When I heard that there was going to be a new book in the Roy Grace series I was excited, having read and loved the previous 22 books and numerous other standalone books by the author I was delighted to be invited to read Dead in three two one.
Set in Brighton during the Pride weekend, features the usual characters plus a couple of new ones for this instalment. One of the authors usual specialities is the intricacies of the plot, but on this occasion, I personally felt that the plot was a little predictable, maybe I have read too many Roy Grace stories, but I guessed which way this was going to go a long way in advance, although there were still a few red herrings. Also, the book is a bit of a slow burner until near the end when it ramps up a bit
Still a solid 4 stars.
When I heard that there was going to be a new book in the Roy Grace series I was excited, having read and loved the previous 22 books and numerous other standalone books by the author I was delighted to be invited to read Dead in three two one.
Set in Brighton during the Pride weekend, features the usual characters plus a couple of new ones for this instalment. One of the authors usual specialities is the intricacies of the plot, but on this occasion, I personally felt that the plot was a little predictable, maybe I have read too many Roy Grace stories, but I guessed which way this was going to go a long way in advance, although there were still a few red herrings. Also, the book is a bit of a slow burner until near the end when it ramps up a bit
Still a solid 4 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the 22nd book in the Detective Superintendent Roy Grace Series and his team are gearing up for a busy time as it is Brighton Pride this coming weekend. Grace is also looking forward to a weekend off with his wife Cleo. She is hosting a benefit dinner on the Saturday night at the Royal Courteney Hotel and he has booked Suite 321 overnight as a treat.
Briefly, what Grace doesn’t know is that his arch nemesis, Albanian crime boss Roel Albazi, is arranging for Grace’s overnight break to be enjoyed alongside an explosion designed to kill. Meanwhile, there is another thread running where the son and daughter of a long term ninety year old resident of the hotel are planning to kill her! Grace is called out when a leg is found in a waste disposal site. As the clock runs down to Saturday night matters escalate in a shocking way leaving Grace, Chloe and their children in grave danger.
All the old favourite characters are back and there are some good minor storylines about some of them. I love how the author always provides such an authentic read with a good dose of humour to counter the darker moment. There are plenty of clues to find and some great red herrings in this excellent police procedural with all the threads meeting seamlessly. A real shocker of a conclusion to a superb storyline. Great read.
Briefly, what Grace doesn’t know is that his arch nemesis, Albanian crime boss Roel Albazi, is arranging for Grace’s overnight break to be enjoyed alongside an explosion designed to kill. Meanwhile, there is another thread running where the son and daughter of a long term ninety year old resident of the hotel are planning to kill her! Grace is called out when a leg is found in a waste disposal site. As the clock runs down to Saturday night matters escalate in a shocking way leaving Grace, Chloe and their children in grave danger.
All the old favourite characters are back and there are some good minor storylines about some of them. I love how the author always provides such an authentic read with a good dose of humour to counter the darker moment. There are plenty of clues to find and some great red herrings in this excellent police procedural with all the threads meeting seamlessly. A real shocker of a conclusion to a superb storyline. Great read.
September 19, 2026
Twenty-two books in and this series still feels like sitting down with old friends. Twenty-two. That number alone tells you something about how much life Peter James has managed to breathe into this world, and I'm nowhere near tired of it.
There's a huge red herring running right through this one. The entire build-up, all the police planning and coordination, is centred on Pride weekend and the very reasonable assumption that half a million people descending on the city brings a strong chance of trouble. What actually unfolds turns out to have nothing to do with Pride whatsoever, but it does underline exactly why all that preparation mattered, because they certainly needed to be ready for what came their way. With Grace already stretched thin across a citywide security operation and whispers of a terror threat in the air, the real danger is something far more personal, and watching him head towards it with Cleo had my heart in my mouth.
The biggest surprise for me was my own reaction to Norman Potting. There was a moment where I thought we were about to lose him and I was so worried, which floored me a bit. This is a man who must rank as one of the most old fashioned, stuck in his ways, wildly inappropriate officers in all of crime fiction. The fact that I cared that much says everything about how attached long-term readers become to these people, and it's also a nod to how far Norman himself has come; he's mellowed over the years and grown noticeably less un-PC in his attitudes without ever losing what makes him Norman.
The rest of the team are on fine form too. Grace, Branson, et al, all slot back in exactly as they should, and catching up with each of them is half the pleasure of a new instalment.
The tension is unrelenting and the plot has a real grit to it. I loved the side plots as well; for a good while I couldn't see how they were going to feed into the main storyline, and working that out is part of the fun. I did guess the twist a fair way out, but I'll say this for it: it's still very clever, and after spending the whole book getting to know the two characters involved, it lands with a satisfying dose of karma.
Terrific plot, superb characters, sharp and confident writing throughout. I adore this series and I hope it runs and runs.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Peter James and Pan Macmillan for an ARC of this book.
There's a huge red herring running right through this one. The entire build-up, all the police planning and coordination, is centred on Pride weekend and the very reasonable assumption that half a million people descending on the city brings a strong chance of trouble. What actually unfolds turns out to have nothing to do with Pride whatsoever, but it does underline exactly why all that preparation mattered, because they certainly needed to be ready for what came their way. With Grace already stretched thin across a citywide security operation and whispers of a terror threat in the air, the real danger is something far more personal, and watching him head towards it with Cleo had my heart in my mouth.
The biggest surprise for me was my own reaction to Norman Potting. There was a moment where I thought we were about to lose him and I was so worried, which floored me a bit. This is a man who must rank as one of the most old fashioned, stuck in his ways, wildly inappropriate officers in all of crime fiction. The fact that I cared that much says everything about how attached long-term readers become to these people, and it's also a nod to how far Norman himself has come; he's mellowed over the years and grown noticeably less un-PC in his attitudes without ever losing what makes him Norman.
The rest of the team are on fine form too. Grace, Branson, et al, all slot back in exactly as they should, and catching up with each of them is half the pleasure of a new instalment.
The tension is unrelenting and the plot has a real grit to it. I loved the side plots as well; for a good while I couldn't see how they were going to feed into the main storyline, and working that out is part of the fun. I did guess the twist a fair way out, but I'll say this for it: it's still very clever, and after spending the whole book getting to know the two characters involved, it lands with a satisfying dose of karma.
Terrific plot, superb characters, sharp and confident writing throughout. I adore this series and I hope it runs and runs.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Peter James and Pan Macmillan for an ARC of this book.
October 20, 2026
If you enjoy police procedurals with a ticking clock, plenty of suspense & characters you quickly feel invested in, Dead in One Two Three is another gripping addition to the Roy Grace series.
Book 23 takes us back to Brighton during Pride weekend, where Roy and Cleo are due to attend a charity dinner at the Royal Courtney Hotel & stay overnight. But with unconfirmed intelligence suggesting a possible terrorist attack & Robert Black checking into room 326 & Prisoner No. L98645ZQ in Lewes Prison’s M Wing, the evening is about to become a lot more complicated.
The tension kicks in early & keeps building, with the story moving between the police & criminals through alternating POVs. I really enjoyed the pacing & the way all the threads gradually come together. Peter James does a brilliant job of bringing Brighton & the story to life, while the police procedural side is as meticulous as ever.
Having read this series from the very beginning, there’s something particularly enjoyable about returning to these familiar characters (shoutout to Norman) & seeing where life takes them next. I’ve also watched the TV adaptation, so I now have the added bonus of picturing the actors as I read, which has made this series extra special for me.
This is definitely one for existing Roy Grace fans, but if you’re new to the series & enjoy police procedurals & fast paced crime, it’s worth picking up & giving it a try. For me, this was another solid instalment & I’m still enjoying seeing where Peter James takes us next.
Book 23 takes us back to Brighton during Pride weekend, where Roy and Cleo are due to attend a charity dinner at the Royal Courtney Hotel & stay overnight. But with unconfirmed intelligence suggesting a possible terrorist attack & Robert Black checking into room 326 & Prisoner No. L98645ZQ in Lewes Prison’s M Wing, the evening is about to become a lot more complicated.
The tension kicks in early & keeps building, with the story moving between the police & criminals through alternating POVs. I really enjoyed the pacing & the way all the threads gradually come together. Peter James does a brilliant job of bringing Brighton & the story to life, while the police procedural side is as meticulous as ever.
Having read this series from the very beginning, there’s something particularly enjoyable about returning to these familiar characters (shoutout to Norman) & seeing where life takes them next. I’ve also watched the TV adaptation, so I now have the added bonus of picturing the actors as I read, which has made this series extra special for me.
This is definitely one for existing Roy Grace fans, but if you’re new to the series & enjoy police procedurals & fast paced crime, it’s worth picking up & giving it a try. For me, this was another solid instalment & I’m still enjoying seeing where Peter James takes us next.
October 22, 2026
If you are familiar with the Grace series (ITV in the UK, BritBox in Canada/USA) be aware that the books are ahead of the tv series so it includes some spoilers about Roy's family and enemies.
Dead in Three Two One finds Roy Grace juggling his regular caseload with rumours of a terror attack as Brighton's Pride festival begins. The blurb kind of spoils the storyline as we find out that the Albanian mob have more than the festival in their sights and they want payback against Roy. Since Albazi's family died, he wants all of the Grace family dead too. But his consigliere makes a mistake, one that attracts the attention of the police.
There is a secondary storyline around the staff and a long term resident of the hotel and her family which is almost darker than the whole kill your whole family storyline. But I enjoyed the daily life of the hotel workers, it was a nice break from the darker plots while not sounding too much like 'day in the life' fluff. This one was also a bit lower on the drama/thriller aspect than I would have expected. It is very much a methodical police procedural as they investigate the potential terror threat, a murder and more.
At book 22, this series is still going strong. It was nice to get back to the usual books after the Royals/Buckingham Palace storyline in the previous installment too. As Norman nears retirement in the books, maybe we could see more of the cyber/tech people who helped in this book in the future too. It adds more of a modern feel to the investigation.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the advance copy for review.
Dead in Three Two One finds Roy Grace juggling his regular caseload with rumours of a terror attack as Brighton's Pride festival begins. The blurb kind of spoils the storyline as we find out that the Albanian mob have more than the festival in their sights and they want payback against Roy. Since Albazi's family died, he wants all of the Grace family dead too. But his consigliere makes a mistake, one that attracts the attention of the police.
There is a secondary storyline around the staff and a long term resident of the hotel and her family which is almost darker than the whole kill your whole family storyline. But I enjoyed the daily life of the hotel workers, it was a nice break from the darker plots while not sounding too much like 'day in the life' fluff. This one was also a bit lower on the drama/thriller aspect than I would have expected. It is very much a methodical police procedural as they investigate the potential terror threat, a murder and more.
At book 22, this series is still going strong. It was nice to get back to the usual books after the Royals/Buckingham Palace storyline in the previous installment too. As Norman nears retirement in the books, maybe we could see more of the cyber/tech people who helped in this book in the future too. It adds more of a modern feel to the investigation.
Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the advance copy for review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love the show “Grace” on BritBox and could not wait to dive into the novels. My first book to read in the series was 2025s “The Hawk is Dead”. It was okay but was more like a love letter to the Royal Family.
I’m so glad I gave Peter James’ novels another shot. I loved “Dead in Three Two One” (which is a brilliant title when you read the book).
Roel Albazi is back to bring about the demise of our beloved DS Roy Grace. This time, he is pulling the strings from jail. This time, he is using a relative to do his dirty work and the plans are sure to end the series.
The majority of this book takes place at the Royal Courteney Hotel. And along with the hotel comes the hotel’s longstanding resident. As she has proclaimed to management, she believes her relatives are going to kill her. This side story, even though not a funny subject matter, provides a tension break and humor from the heart-pounding action of the main story. It’s not a throw away story but isn’t the main one.
This book was so much fun to read. The mystery is good and the procedural aspect is high quality. I couldn’t help thinking this will play out beautifully on BritBox.
As a side note, stream Matthew Slater’s brilliant soundtrack for “Grace” seasons/series #1-4 while reading.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
I’m so glad I gave Peter James’ novels another shot. I loved “Dead in Three Two One” (which is a brilliant title when you read the book).
Roel Albazi is back to bring about the demise of our beloved DS Roy Grace. This time, he is pulling the strings from jail. This time, he is using a relative to do his dirty work and the plans are sure to end the series.
The majority of this book takes place at the Royal Courteney Hotel. And along with the hotel comes the hotel’s longstanding resident. As she has proclaimed to management, she believes her relatives are going to kill her. This side story, even though not a funny subject matter, provides a tension break and humor from the heart-pounding action of the main story. It’s not a throw away story but isn’t the main one.
This book was so much fun to read. The mystery is good and the procedural aspect is high quality. I couldn’t help thinking this will play out beautifully on BritBox.
As a side note, stream Matthew Slater’s brilliant soundtrack for “Grace” seasons/series #1-4 while reading.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dead In Three Two One is the 23rd book in Peter James' hugely popular Roy Grace series, and once again Brighton's finest finds himself facing an incredibly demanding case. Roy is overseeing the policing operation for Brighton Pride, an event that historically brings around 300,000 visitors to the city, when unconfirmed reports of an imminent terrorist attack add another layer of pressure to his already enormous workload. But while Roy is focused on keeping the city safe, an old enemy and nemesis is quietly plotting his revenge. Albanian Roel Albazi is back, and he specialises in targeting the people closest to his victims, making this a deeply personal threat that Roy doesn't even know is coming.
I am a huge fan of Peter James' books and have a very special place in my heart for the Roy Grace series, eagerly looking forward to this time each year when the next instalment arrives. Dead In Three Two One does not disappoint - it is excellent. Exciting, gripping and fast paced, it has everything I have come to expect from this series: intricate plotting, twists, turns and red herrings aplenty. There is always so much going on, yet Peter James manages to keep all the different strands under control, maintaining the tension right through to the final pages.
Living on the south coast means I can vividly picture the many locations in the story, making the experience even more immersive for me. However, the author has such a wonderful sense of place that I am sure even readers without that local knowledge will feel completely transported into Brighton and its surrounding landscape. Another thing I particularly enjoy about this series is the authenticity of the police procedural elements. Peter James is meticulous about getting the policing details right, and this really adds to the credibility and enjoyment of the story. It feels as though you are right there alongside Roy and his team as they deal with an increasingly complex and dangerous situation. The ending really impressed me, I wasn't expecting events to play out in quite the way they did. This elevated what was an already excellent book to a whole new level.
Another fantastic addition to the Roy Grace series and for me, one of the highlights of my reading year. Peter James has once again delivered a gripping, intelligent and brilliantly plotted crime thriller. I,m already looking forward to next year's instalment. Breathtakingly brilliant!
Huge thanks to NetGalley and PanMacmillan for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
I am a huge fan of Peter James' books and have a very special place in my heart for the Roy Grace series, eagerly looking forward to this time each year when the next instalment arrives. Dead In Three Two One does not disappoint - it is excellent. Exciting, gripping and fast paced, it has everything I have come to expect from this series: intricate plotting, twists, turns and red herrings aplenty. There is always so much going on, yet Peter James manages to keep all the different strands under control, maintaining the tension right through to the final pages.
Living on the south coast means I can vividly picture the many locations in the story, making the experience even more immersive for me. However, the author has such a wonderful sense of place that I am sure even readers without that local knowledge will feel completely transported into Brighton and its surrounding landscape. Another thing I particularly enjoy about this series is the authenticity of the police procedural elements. Peter James is meticulous about getting the policing details right, and this really adds to the credibility and enjoyment of the story. It feels as though you are right there alongside Roy and his team as they deal with an increasingly complex and dangerous situation. The ending really impressed me, I wasn't expecting events to play out in quite the way they did. This elevated what was an already excellent book to a whole new level.
Another fantastic addition to the Roy Grace series and for me, one of the highlights of my reading year. Peter James has once again delivered a gripping, intelligent and brilliantly plotted crime thriller. I,m already looking forward to next year's instalment. Breathtakingly brilliant!
Huge thanks to NetGalley and PanMacmillan for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.
October 27, 2026
The publication of a new Peter James is one of the highlights of my year! Dead in Three Two One is set in an elegant Brighton hotel (where Room 321 plays a key role in the plot). There are two intertwined plot threads – one, a couple of particularly nasty Albanian gangsters are planning a revenge killing of DS Roy Grace and his family and two, the children of a rich widow who has taken up residence in the hotel are planning to get their hands on their inheritance. The plots come together in a very satisfying climax! I loved the meticulously researched setting of the story (apparently the author enjoyed a temporary job as a doorman in a Brighton hotel to discover what happens behind the scenes). And it was great to catch up with DS Roy Grace and his team, now on their 22nd fictional outing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Peter James is a phenomenal crime writer. With an apparent knowledge of Police Procedures, Forensics, and Cyber intelligence, he delivers a believable story that is enthralling. The writing is, therefore, incredibly exciting to read and is so gripping, I found it hard to put the book down.
What I loved most, apart from the obvious crime aspect, is the back story of Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and his wife Cleo, an anatomical pathology technician. Their family is the stability that gives character to Grace and his wife's life. They go from being an ordinary married couple with young children to professional and well-respected members of the community, which gives both of them an edge. I love that they both understand the demands placed on each of them because of their careers.
Above that is the plot. The book series has an ongoing theme of perceived revenge and retribution, carried out against his enemy, by an Albanian crime boss, Roel Albazi. In this book, he once again rears his head, determined to inflict menace on all who have wronged him. It is up to Grace and his team to follow the clues and stop this from happening. As the clues mount, so does the tension.
What I loved most, apart from the obvious crime aspect, is the back story of Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and his wife Cleo, an anatomical pathology technician. Their family is the stability that gives character to Grace and his wife's life. They go from being an ordinary married couple with young children to professional and well-respected members of the community, which gives both of them an edge. I love that they both understand the demands placed on each of them because of their careers.
Above that is the plot. The book series has an ongoing theme of perceived revenge and retribution, carried out against his enemy, by an Albanian crime boss, Roel Albazi. In this book, he once again rears his head, determined to inflict menace on all who have wronged him. It is up to Grace and his team to follow the clues and stop this from happening. As the clues mount, so does the tension.
October 20, 2026
Well... here we are, in the 20s of a series I have a bit of a history with, having given up after believing the author dragged the "Sandy" series arc out way tooooo long, and then reconnecting with it once that was resolved. Although I say resolved, it kinda still isn't, but at least it is mostly resolved, enough to my satisfaction, anyway...
So... there is a lot going on in this book. We start with Brighton Pride and all the extra pressure on the city that entails, especially wrt the policing. Not really the right time to have a terrorist rock up at the Royal Courteney Hotel along with a "paid for" beauty in tow, and a case full of... well not clothes or toiletries! Could it be something to do with a relative of his who is languishing in prison, and/or a charity night to be held in the hotel, arranged by Det Superintendent Roy Grace's wife Cleo?
We also follow one of the hotel's long stay residents and her fears that her children want to coerce her to change her will back in their favour... And then a limb is found at a waste plant...
If I say one thing about this author it has to be his amazing plotting. Occasionally he allows you a glimpse of what might come, but you are never sure. He is especially brilliant at combining individual storylines in a way that you really never saw coming. He is a master of convolution and interconnection indeed! Which I guess is why I went back to this series which, truth be told, I never really wanted to step away from... But we are back together again and, long may it reign!
I especially loved the parts in this book set in the waste / recycling / power plant. I mean, who knew such a thing existed... well, obviously me for one! But they do and I learned a lot about them, obviously not as much as the author in his meticulous (as always) research. And then there's the description - both the physical and the working of a major hotel. Again so well researched - and that level of research really does make a difference in the final product.
And with short, punchy chapters, it all gets on with itself very well indeed, culminating in a highly satisfying ending, part of which I really loved. All that's left now is to wait to see what the author has in store for Roy et al next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... there is a lot going on in this book. We start with Brighton Pride and all the extra pressure on the city that entails, especially wrt the policing. Not really the right time to have a terrorist rock up at the Royal Courteney Hotel along with a "paid for" beauty in tow, and a case full of... well not clothes or toiletries! Could it be something to do with a relative of his who is languishing in prison, and/or a charity night to be held in the hotel, arranged by Det Superintendent Roy Grace's wife Cleo?
We also follow one of the hotel's long stay residents and her fears that her children want to coerce her to change her will back in their favour... And then a limb is found at a waste plant...
If I say one thing about this author it has to be his amazing plotting. Occasionally he allows you a glimpse of what might come, but you are never sure. He is especially brilliant at combining individual storylines in a way that you really never saw coming. He is a master of convolution and interconnection indeed! Which I guess is why I went back to this series which, truth be told, I never really wanted to step away from... But we are back together again and, long may it reign!
I especially loved the parts in this book set in the waste / recycling / power plant. I mean, who knew such a thing existed... well, obviously me for one! But they do and I learned a lot about them, obviously not as much as the author in his meticulous (as always) research. And then there's the description - both the physical and the working of a major hotel. Again so well researched - and that level of research really does make a difference in the final product.
And with short, punchy chapters, it all gets on with itself very well indeed, culminating in a highly satisfying ending, part of which I really loved. All that's left now is to wait to see what the author has in store for Roy et al next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have read so many books by Jessica Redland, and I am always completely immersed in her stories. Reading one of her books feels a little like sinking into a warm bubble bath — comforting, cozy, uplifting, and exactly where I want to be.
Although Always A Silver Lining can be enjoyed as a standalone, it is the sixth book in the Escape to the Lakes series, so I especially loved revisiting old friends and catching up with characters who have appeared throughout the previous books. Jessica has such a wonderful talent for creating interconnected communities where the characters genuinely feel like people you know, and returning to the Lakes always feels like coming home.
This time, the story follows Juliet, a wedding planner who has helped countless couples achieve their happily ever after while never quite managing to make it down the aisle herself. When she meets Christian following a cycling accident, there is an immediate spark between them. But with an age difference, complicated family dynamics, and a deeply personal secret Juliet has been carrying for years, finding their own happily ever after isn't quite as straightforward as either of them might hope.
I really enjoyed watching Juliet and Christian's relationship develop and found myself completely invested in them, willing them to overcome the obstacles standing in their way. I also loved that this is a romance featuring older characters with full, complicated lives and histories. Their past experiences don't disappear simply because they have found each other, and I thought Jessica handled the emotional aspects of their story with her usual warmth and sensitivity.
As always, this book is about so much more than romance. Friendship, family, community, love, loss, second chances and finding the silver lining even when life doesn't go according to plan are all woven beautifully throughout the story.
This was another heartwarming visit to Whitsborough Bay, and Jessica Redland once again left me with a huge smile on my face. A warm, uplifting and feel-good read with plenty of heart. I already can't wait for my next escape into one of Jessica's worlds!
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Jessica Redland for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Although Always A Silver Lining can be enjoyed as a standalone, it is the sixth book in the Escape to the Lakes series, so I especially loved revisiting old friends and catching up with characters who have appeared throughout the previous books. Jessica has such a wonderful talent for creating interconnected communities where the characters genuinely feel like people you know, and returning to the Lakes always feels like coming home.
This time, the story follows Juliet, a wedding planner who has helped countless couples achieve their happily ever after while never quite managing to make it down the aisle herself. When she meets Christian following a cycling accident, there is an immediate spark between them. But with an age difference, complicated family dynamics, and a deeply personal secret Juliet has been carrying for years, finding their own happily ever after isn't quite as straightforward as either of them might hope.
I really enjoyed watching Juliet and Christian's relationship develop and found myself completely invested in them, willing them to overcome the obstacles standing in their way. I also loved that this is a romance featuring older characters with full, complicated lives and histories. Their past experiences don't disappear simply because they have found each other, and I thought Jessica handled the emotional aspects of their story with her usual warmth and sensitivity.
As always, this book is about so much more than romance. Friendship, family, community, love, loss, second chances and finding the silver lining even when life doesn't go according to plan are all woven beautifully throughout the story.
This was another heartwarming visit to Whitsborough Bay, and Jessica Redland once again left me with a huge smile on my face. A warm, uplifting and feel-good read with plenty of heart. I already can't wait for my next escape into one of Jessica's worlds!
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Jessica Redland for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read every instalment in the Roy Grace series, I approached Dead in Three Two One with a degree of trepidation. While I have remained a loyal reader, one who was invested in the characters I have felt that the last couple of books had occasionally ventured into territory that was a little too fantastical for my tastes. Happily, this latest novel proved to be a return to the excellence that made me fall in love with the series in the first place.
Set against the backdrop of Brighton Pride, the story sees Roy Grace overseeing the city's massive security operation while an even more personal threat begins to emerge. Dritan Dervishi, the ruthless associate of imprisoned crime boss Roel Albazi, checks into the Royal Courteney Hotel with revenge on his mind, setting in motion a deadly countdown that places Grace and his family directly in the crosshairs.
What really worked for me was the credibility of the plot. Peter James delivers a tense, enthralling thriller without sacrificing believability, allowing the suspense to build naturally as the danger closes in. After some of the more far-fetched elements of recent novels, this felt refreshingly grounded.
The setting is a particular triumph. The faded grandeur of the Royal Courteney Hotel provides a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama. Its opulence, history and underlying sense of belt-tightening by the owners set the scene for revenge and impending danger. I thoroughly enjoyed how effectively the author used the hotel and its staff to heighten the tension throughout the novel.
As always, it was a pleasure to spend time with Roy Grace and many of the series' familiar characters. Long-time readers will appreciate seeing favourite faces return, while the personal stakes make this one of Grace's most compelling cases in recent years.
For me, Dead in Three Two One marks a welcome return to form. With its believable and engrossing plot, strong cast of characters and superbly atmospheric setting, it stands alongside the stronger entries in the series and is a reminder of why Roy Grace remains one of the most enduring detectives in modern crime fiction.
Set against the backdrop of Brighton Pride, the story sees Roy Grace overseeing the city's massive security operation while an even more personal threat begins to emerge. Dritan Dervishi, the ruthless associate of imprisoned crime boss Roel Albazi, checks into the Royal Courteney Hotel with revenge on his mind, setting in motion a deadly countdown that places Grace and his family directly in the crosshairs.
What really worked for me was the credibility of the plot. Peter James delivers a tense, enthralling thriller without sacrificing believability, allowing the suspense to build naturally as the danger closes in. After some of the more far-fetched elements of recent novels, this felt refreshingly grounded.
The setting is a particular triumph. The faded grandeur of the Royal Courteney Hotel provides a wonderfully atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama. Its opulence, history and underlying sense of belt-tightening by the owners set the scene for revenge and impending danger. I thoroughly enjoyed how effectively the author used the hotel and its staff to heighten the tension throughout the novel.
As always, it was a pleasure to spend time with Roy Grace and many of the series' familiar characters. Long-time readers will appreciate seeing favourite faces return, while the personal stakes make this one of Grace's most compelling cases in recent years.
For me, Dead in Three Two One marks a welcome return to form. With its believable and engrossing plot, strong cast of characters and superbly atmospheric setting, it stands alongside the stronger entries in the series and is a reminder of why Roy Grace remains one of the most enduring detectives in modern crime fiction.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dead in Three, Two, One Peter James
5 stars
Brilliant as always!
Peter James is my favourite author and I have read everyone of the Roy Grace series.
I am always amazed how the author manages to find a different plot every time which always contains more than one thread and keeps all my favourite characters involved.
This time the main threat is aimed at Roy, his wife Cleo and their two young children. It is Pride Week in Brighton so every hotel is full. However in The Royal Courteney Hotel a suite has been reserved for Roy and his wife, Cleo is doing a speech in support of her charity and the couple are going to celebrate by spending the night in a 5 star hotel.
Unbeknownst to them, one of Roy's arch enemies has managed to plant a bomb which will release deadly sarin gas into their suite killing them instantly. Roel Albazi blames Roy for losing some of his family as a result of Roy's ex-wife Sandy running up gambling debts that he was unable to repay. He is determined to get his revenge in the worst possible way.
As the reader we always see both sides of the story from both Roy and his team of detectives, whom I have come to know and from the point of view of the baddies. I always read these books in a couple of days because I have to know how things end and the book is just always so readable.
There are always sub-plots in these books, this time a couple of disgruntled siblings trying to get their 89 year old mother who lives in The Royal Courtenay, to change her will by giving her medication which will give her the appearance of dementia.
The explanation of the various police departments, the areas linked to them and the police procedures are always immaculate and as the author states he uses real detectives for his information.
I just hope that Roy Grace stories continue for years to come, I will always read any future novels as each one seems to get better and better. I would urge anyone who has never read any of this series to start, you are in for a treat!
Karen Deborah
NetGalley
5 stars
Brilliant as always!
Peter James is my favourite author and I have read everyone of the Roy Grace series.
I am always amazed how the author manages to find a different plot every time which always contains more than one thread and keeps all my favourite characters involved.
This time the main threat is aimed at Roy, his wife Cleo and their two young children. It is Pride Week in Brighton so every hotel is full. However in The Royal Courteney Hotel a suite has been reserved for Roy and his wife, Cleo is doing a speech in support of her charity and the couple are going to celebrate by spending the night in a 5 star hotel.
Unbeknownst to them, one of Roy's arch enemies has managed to plant a bomb which will release deadly sarin gas into their suite killing them instantly. Roel Albazi blames Roy for losing some of his family as a result of Roy's ex-wife Sandy running up gambling debts that he was unable to repay. He is determined to get his revenge in the worst possible way.
As the reader we always see both sides of the story from both Roy and his team of detectives, whom I have come to know and from the point of view of the baddies. I always read these books in a couple of days because I have to know how things end and the book is just always so readable.
There are always sub-plots in these books, this time a couple of disgruntled siblings trying to get their 89 year old mother who lives in The Royal Courtenay, to change her will by giving her medication which will give her the appearance of dementia.
The explanation of the various police departments, the areas linked to them and the police procedures are always immaculate and as the author states he uses real detectives for his information.
I just hope that Roy Grace stories continue for years to come, I will always read any future novels as each one seems to get better and better. I would urge anyone who has never read any of this series to start, you are in for a treat!
Karen Deborah
NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 🌟
I have become such a big fan of Peter James and the Roy Grace series. My interest in the books began several years ago after I had the opportunity to see Peter James speak at the Shoreham Book Festival. I subsequently started watching the Roy Grace television series, which I really enjoyed, and that led me to the books themselves.
I read book 21, 'The Hawk Is Dead', when it was published last year, so I was particularly keen to continue with the series and was absolutely delighted to receive a proof copy of 'Dead in 3 2 1', book 22. Although this is part of a long-running series, I think it is worth mentioning that the books can be read as stand-alone stories, so you don't necessarily have to have read all the previous books to enjoy this one.
As always, it was fantastic to spend time with Roy Grace and his team again. One of the things I particularly enjoy about this series is the characters. They feel very well established and believable, and I find myself becoming invested in both their personal lives and their investigations very quickly. There is a real sense that, after so many books, you are catching up with characters you know.
The story itself had everything I look for in a good thriller. The short, pacy chapters made it incredibly easy to keep reading, and the twists and developments kept me wanting to find out what was going to happen next. There was a real sense of momentum throughout, and I found myself racing through the pages.
Peter James has a real talent for creating tension while keeping the story moving at a fantastic pace, and 'Dead in 3 2 1' is another excellent example of this.
The combination of a gripping investigation, plenty of twists, short chapters and an ever-increasing sense of urgency made this a book I found very difficult to put down. I’m already looking forward to seeing what Peter James has in store for Roy and his team next!
Highly recommended for fans of crime and police thrillers.
I have become such a big fan of Peter James and the Roy Grace series. My interest in the books began several years ago after I had the opportunity to see Peter James speak at the Shoreham Book Festival. I subsequently started watching the Roy Grace television series, which I really enjoyed, and that led me to the books themselves.
I read book 21, 'The Hawk Is Dead', when it was published last year, so I was particularly keen to continue with the series and was absolutely delighted to receive a proof copy of 'Dead in 3 2 1', book 22. Although this is part of a long-running series, I think it is worth mentioning that the books can be read as stand-alone stories, so you don't necessarily have to have read all the previous books to enjoy this one.
As always, it was fantastic to spend time with Roy Grace and his team again. One of the things I particularly enjoy about this series is the characters. They feel very well established and believable, and I find myself becoming invested in both their personal lives and their investigations very quickly. There is a real sense that, after so many books, you are catching up with characters you know.
The story itself had everything I look for in a good thriller. The short, pacy chapters made it incredibly easy to keep reading, and the twists and developments kept me wanting to find out what was going to happen next. There was a real sense of momentum throughout, and I found myself racing through the pages.
Peter James has a real talent for creating tension while keeping the story moving at a fantastic pace, and 'Dead in 3 2 1' is another excellent example of this.
The combination of a gripping investigation, plenty of twists, short chapters and an ever-increasing sense of urgency made this a book I found very difficult to put down. I’m already looking forward to seeing what Peter James has in store for Roy and his team next!
Highly recommended for fans of crime and police thrillers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy for review purposes.
This is another thrilling entry from Peter James in the Roy Grace series. Peter James is the best British police procedural author writing today and I absolutely loved this book.
Albanian criminal Roel Albazi is determined to get revenge on Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, who put him in prison. His consigliere Dritan Dervishi checks into a specifically selected room in the Royal Courtney hotel in Brighton, and begins to enact a deadly plan. Will Roy Grace and his team get to the bottom of it in time?
As always, the plot is carefully constructed, with multiple strands and subplots that eventually come together. The book is really good at building tension, right from the beginning. My mind immediately began considering where the story could go and all the bad and worrying things that could happen. So I found it very difficult to stop reading as I needed to know!
These Roy Grace books are not whodunits; the story is told from the viewpoints of both the police and the criminals, which I really enjoy as an approach. There is always that moment when Roy and his team first identify a small clue that begins to point them in the right direction, that the reader already knows, and I always find that immensely satisfying.
The author is a stickler for correct police procedure. However, he never lets this become boring or slow down the story. On the contrary, it can provide a fascinating insight into how modern policing works. In this story, digital forensics plays a key role.
I definitely recommend this book. Even if you haven't tried the Roy Grace series yet, or maybe only seen it on TV, you can start here.
You might like this if you enjoy Ian Rankin, Michael Connelly, Damien Boyd or Martin O'Brien.
This is another thrilling entry from Peter James in the Roy Grace series. Peter James is the best British police procedural author writing today and I absolutely loved this book.
Albanian criminal Roel Albazi is determined to get revenge on Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, who put him in prison. His consigliere Dritan Dervishi checks into a specifically selected room in the Royal Courtney hotel in Brighton, and begins to enact a deadly plan. Will Roy Grace and his team get to the bottom of it in time?
As always, the plot is carefully constructed, with multiple strands and subplots that eventually come together. The book is really good at building tension, right from the beginning. My mind immediately began considering where the story could go and all the bad and worrying things that could happen. So I found it very difficult to stop reading as I needed to know!
These Roy Grace books are not whodunits; the story is told from the viewpoints of both the police and the criminals, which I really enjoy as an approach. There is always that moment when Roy and his team first identify a small clue that begins to point them in the right direction, that the reader already knows, and I always find that immensely satisfying.
The author is a stickler for correct police procedure. However, he never lets this become boring or slow down the story. On the contrary, it can provide a fascinating insight into how modern policing works. In this story, digital forensics plays a key role.
I definitely recommend this book. Even if you haven't tried the Roy Grace series yet, or maybe only seen it on TV, you can start here.
You might like this if you enjoy Ian Rankin, Michael Connelly, Damien Boyd or Martin O'Brien.
October 20, 2026
Having known Brighton only as a tourist from Australia I still get a kick out of reading Peter James’s Grace thrillers and imagining that beautiful part of the world, or the best bits of it, which are all I experienced. I love catching up with Roy Grace’s life away from his job which has always been an essential part of the story. After the desperate years of not knowing what happened to Sandy he deserves the happiness he has now found with Cleo and their children.
In Dead in Three Two One, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is, unknowingly this time, involved in a race against time. Brighton Pride weekend has attracted half a million visitors to the city and Roy is flat out coordinating a massive security operation, while at the same time being unaware of an attack being planned against him personally.
The story is filled with suspense and is centred mainly around the Royal Courtenay Hotel. General Manager Aleksander Twarowski is determined to keep operations running smoothly on such a huge weekend, with full occupancy. Peter James describes Aleksander as being tall, immaculately dressed, charming, with hair like Eddie Redmayne’s (although I preferred to picture Tom Hiddleston in The Night Manager).
There is a particularly nasty villain whom Roy and his team are pursuing, suspecting him of being involved in at least one crime. There is a maddening clue which keeps being overlooked, and if Dead in Three Two One were a movie I would be yelling from my lounge chair: look over there!!
Totally satisfying.
In Dead in Three Two One, Detective Superintendent Roy Grace is, unknowingly this time, involved in a race against time. Brighton Pride weekend has attracted half a million visitors to the city and Roy is flat out coordinating a massive security operation, while at the same time being unaware of an attack being planned against him personally.
The story is filled with suspense and is centred mainly around the Royal Courtenay Hotel. General Manager Aleksander Twarowski is determined to keep operations running smoothly on such a huge weekend, with full occupancy. Peter James describes Aleksander as being tall, immaculately dressed, charming, with hair like Eddie Redmayne’s (although I preferred to picture Tom Hiddleston in The Night Manager).
There is a particularly nasty villain whom Roy and his team are pursuing, suspecting him of being involved in at least one crime. There is a maddening clue which keeps being overlooked, and if Dead in Three Two One were a movie I would be yelling from my lounge chair: look over there!!
Totally satisfying.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My thanks to Peter and Netgalley for allowing me to read Dead in Three Two One prior to publication.
This thoroughly enjoyable book is a page turner with multiple threads running through the story.
The author has thrown in a bit of gallows humour, plenty of banter between Grace and Branson and a hilarious scene with DS Potting.
Grace is looking forward to a charity event in the Royal Courteney Hotel at which his wife, Cleo is speaking.
This is the hotel where Roy had proposed to Cleo and he has reserved the same room, 326, with a view to a romantic child free getaway.
In addition to his normal workload as head of the MCU, Grace has also been assigned the role of Gold Command for the upcoming Brighton Pride weekend.
Red flags are raised when the controversial Forensic Imaging Team identify the presence of Dritan Dervishi, an Albanian man who has recently been released from Lewes Prison having served a sentence for a violent homophobic attack.
Dervishi is the consigliere for the mob boss, Roel Albazi, who had threatened Grace. Despite his incarceration in Lewes Prison, Albazi’s tentacles still stretch far and wide.
Meanwhile, Jeanne de Bairde, a wealthy widow and long term resident at the hotel, shares her concern with Aleksander Twarowski, the manager, that her children are trying to kill her. He has to decide whether the threat is real or the imagination of a lady who is fond of a tipple or two..
This thoroughly enjoyable book is a page turner with multiple threads running through the story.
The author has thrown in a bit of gallows humour, plenty of banter between Grace and Branson and a hilarious scene with DS Potting.
Grace is looking forward to a charity event in the Royal Courteney Hotel at which his wife, Cleo is speaking.
This is the hotel where Roy had proposed to Cleo and he has reserved the same room, 326, with a view to a romantic child free getaway.
In addition to his normal workload as head of the MCU, Grace has also been assigned the role of Gold Command for the upcoming Brighton Pride weekend.
Red flags are raised when the controversial Forensic Imaging Team identify the presence of Dritan Dervishi, an Albanian man who has recently been released from Lewes Prison having served a sentence for a violent homophobic attack.
Dervishi is the consigliere for the mob boss, Roel Albazi, who had threatened Grace. Despite his incarceration in Lewes Prison, Albazi’s tentacles still stretch far and wide.
Meanwhile, Jeanne de Bairde, a wealthy widow and long term resident at the hotel, shares her concern with Aleksander Twarowski, the manager, that her children are trying to kill her. He has to decide whether the threat is real or the imagination of a lady who is fond of a tipple or two..
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The latest in the series of detective novels set in and around Brighton, sees senior detective Roy Grace unwittingly facing a situation which could be devastating for the Grace family. With Roel Albazi behind bars, but seeking revenge, one of his consiglieri's is tasked with dealing with Grace - but not just Roy, but his loved ones too. Set in the fictional Royal Courtenay Hotel along Brighton's seafront (but with definite similarities to the Grand), Dritan Dervishi checks into the hotel on Pride weekend, with a couple of suitcases (one huge, one much smaller but very heavy) and a lady friend. Dervishi's plan unfolds and with the time ticking away, will his activities be discovered in time?
This 24th book in the Grace series (including related titles) remains in the style we are accustomed to, furthering the storyline with tension and a steady build-up of the action. There's less focus on the procedural side of things which is no bad thing - that's been done satisfyingly enough in these books, particularly the early stories. There also seems to be a lot less of Grace himself in this story; that might just be perception though. Dervishi's activities are covered in some depth which is appropriate and makes the character more rounded.
Always a good read - and am already looking forward to book 25 next year!
This 24th book in the Grace series (including related titles) remains in the style we are accustomed to, furthering the storyline with tension and a steady build-up of the action. There's less focus on the procedural side of things which is no bad thing - that's been done satisfyingly enough in these books, particularly the early stories. There also seems to be a lot less of Grace himself in this story; that might just be perception though. Dervishi's activities are covered in some depth which is appropriate and makes the character more rounded.
Always a good read - and am already looking forward to book 25 next year!
October 17, 2026
I have read all of the Roy Grace books and Peter James is a must read author for me, so I was delighted to receive an advance copy of Dead in Three Two One, the latest Roy Grace novel, publishing on 20th October. The story works as a standalone but I find you get more from the story if you’ve read the other books in the series.
Brighton is busy during Pride weekend celebrations and the police are on high alert. The Royal Courteney hotel is fully booked and amongst the party goers someone is checking in with sinister intentions. He has specifically requested room 321 and refuses a plush room upgrade. The following week Roy and his wife have booked a suite after an event Cleo has hosted.
As always the characters are very well done and you get into the story straightaway. It’s very readable yet there’s an underlying tension as you will the police to work out what’s happening before it’s too late. The story moves between the sinister guest, Roy and his colleagues and the family of a long term hotel resident. As the story moves along you see how they’re connected.
Overall I really enjoyed the book but I did find the ending a little predictable as I figured Roy and his family would be OK. This diluted the tension a bit for me.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Brighton is busy during Pride weekend celebrations and the police are on high alert. The Royal Courteney hotel is fully booked and amongst the party goers someone is checking in with sinister intentions. He has specifically requested room 321 and refuses a plush room upgrade. The following week Roy and his wife have booked a suite after an event Cleo has hosted.
As always the characters are very well done and you get into the story straightaway. It’s very readable yet there’s an underlying tension as you will the police to work out what’s happening before it’s too late. The story moves between the sinister guest, Roy and his colleagues and the family of a long term hotel resident. As the story moves along you see how they’re connected.
Overall I really enjoyed the book but I did find the ending a little predictable as I figured Roy and his family would be OK. This diluted the tension a bit for me.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another Roy Grace book and another chance to catch up with characters who have become so familiar over the years. This is book 23 in the series, and I’ve loved them all, so it’s always a pleasure to return to Roy and the team.
Roy is busy dealing with Brighton Pride weekend, completely unaware that there is a target on his back. His old nemesis Roel Albazi is plotting revenge from prison, with plans that could put Roy and those he loves in serious danger. Alongside this, there’s another storyline running which eventually ties in nicely with the main plot.
There’s plenty of tension, twists and police procedure, and I really enjoyed the way the different strands came together. I also loved seeing the familiar characters again, although I do wish we’d had more of Norman Potting he’s such a favourite of mine!
I enjoyed this one, although if I’m being completely honest, I didn’t love it quite as much as some of the earlier books in the series. That said, it’s still a gripping read and a great addition to the Roy Grace series. It can also be read as a standalone, although I think knowing the characters and their history makes it even more enjoyable.
Another solid Roy Grace read, and after 23 books, these characters really do feel like old friends.
Roy is busy dealing with Brighton Pride weekend, completely unaware that there is a target on his back. His old nemesis Roel Albazi is plotting revenge from prison, with plans that could put Roy and those he loves in serious danger. Alongside this, there’s another storyline running which eventually ties in nicely with the main plot.
There’s plenty of tension, twists and police procedure, and I really enjoyed the way the different strands came together. I also loved seeing the familiar characters again, although I do wish we’d had more of Norman Potting he’s such a favourite of mine!
I enjoyed this one, although if I’m being completely honest, I didn’t love it quite as much as some of the earlier books in the series. That said, it’s still a gripping read and a great addition to the Roy Grace series. It can also be read as a standalone, although I think knowing the characters and their history makes it even more enjoyable.
Another solid Roy Grace read, and after 23 books, these characters really do feel like old friends.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This one is set mainly in a hotel in Brighton where Cleo is due to have a charity event with Roy Grace with her and then stop overnight. One of the criminals put away by Grace believes he can use this to get back at the man who put him away but can he pull it off?
This as ever is a great book as ever by Peter James and you know the quality of read you will get. You just want to not put it down to find out what happens.
It all starts when a known assassin checks in to the hotel with a big suitcase and a pretty woman with him. It is Pride week and Grace's team are on high alert for any terrorist attacks.
What unfolds is a story to find a killer they believe could be the assassin but what is he after? All the while behind this we are building to the event Grace's wife Cleo is holding and maybe an attempt to get Grace. The pace is steady as we follow them when a leg turns up and it is clear a murder could have occurred. Can they prove who did it and while trying to get a killer other things unfold as it goes along, so will in the end they get the killer and will Roy Grace be ok.
Well read it and you'll find out, you wont be disappointed.
This as ever is a great book as ever by Peter James and you know the quality of read you will get. You just want to not put it down to find out what happens.
It all starts when a known assassin checks in to the hotel with a big suitcase and a pretty woman with him. It is Pride week and Grace's team are on high alert for any terrorist attacks.
What unfolds is a story to find a killer they believe could be the assassin but what is he after? All the while behind this we are building to the event Grace's wife Cleo is holding and maybe an attempt to get Grace. The pace is steady as we follow them when a leg turns up and it is clear a murder could have occurred. Can they prove who did it and while trying to get a killer other things unfold as it goes along, so will in the end they get the killer and will Roy Grace be ok.
Well read it and you'll find out, you wont be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Peter James is back with number twenty three in the Detective Superintendent Roy Grace series. By virtue of the fact that there are already twenty two books ahead of it and is also a well liked tv series tells you that these books are something special. This book is no different and is very past paced with an imminent threat to Grace, his wife Cleo and their two children.
Based in familiar territory in Brighton during the UK's biggest Pride festival police are already in a heightened state of awareness and become even more so when a well known Albanian dissident books into the plush Royal Courteney hotel, acting suspiciously from the outset. This being the very same hotel that Roy Grace and his wife are booked into the following week and where, as a side plot, an elderly mother is resident in unbeknown that her offspring are plotting her downfall. When a body part is found at a waste recycling centre everything points to activities at the Royal Courteney hotel and a race against time commences to not just find out what happened but also to stop a potential terror attack.
As always with this series it is thrilling from start to finish with many twists and turns in the process.
Based in familiar territory in Brighton during the UK's biggest Pride festival police are already in a heightened state of awareness and become even more so when a well known Albanian dissident books into the plush Royal Courteney hotel, acting suspiciously from the outset. This being the very same hotel that Roy Grace and his wife are booked into the following week and where, as a side plot, an elderly mother is resident in unbeknown that her offspring are plotting her downfall. When a body part is found at a waste recycling centre everything points to activities at the Royal Courteney hotel and a race against time commences to not just find out what happened but also to stop a potential terror attack.
As always with this series it is thrilling from start to finish with many twists and turns in the process.
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