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The Wrong Man
A new PI. A dead rockstar. A tangled web of secrets.
When Ethan Adler set up his new PI agency in central Manchester, he wasn’t expecting his first case to be so high profile – investigating the mysterious death of rock star Dylan Vy.
Ethan has been avoiding the spotlight ever since his beloved wife Maggie’s untimely passing. His grief has been complicated by rumours that Maggie was pregnant with another man’s child at the time of her fatal accident. And because said accident took place just hours after Ethan won the lottery, a cloud of suspicion has followed Ethan ever since.
With the help of his assistant Amelia, Ethan throws himself into uncovering the truth about Dylan Vy. In a fast-escalating investigation, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, lies and deadly connections between bandmates, girlfriends and a volatile manager. And when Dylan's unreleased music is leaked on the dark web, speculation swirls that the lyrics contain hidden clues that might lead to the killer. But who leaked these songs, and what is their secret motive? In the midst of a media frenzy and a storm of fan conspiracy theories, who can Ethan trust?
As Ethan digs deeper, he must also confront his own demons — the lingering questions about Maggie’s death and the growing realisation that those closest to him may have played a role…
PRAISE FOR THE WRONG MAN
'Chris McDonald’s multi-millionaire, Skoda-driving, suspected-of-wife-murdering private eye Ethan Adler is a breath of fresh air. A (literal) rock and roll plot, a gritty Manchester backdrop, and a dark sense of fun … A slice of contemporary PI noir to delight fans of the genre.' Vaseem Khan
'I absolutely loved The Wrong Man. Pacy and addictive, with wonderfully realised characters and a genius central premise, I ripped through it in a day. An expertly told rock and roll murder mystery set in Manchester? Hook it to my veins now…' Adam Simcox
PRAISE FOR CHRIS McDONALD…
‘Wow! Chris McDonald has written a clever, chilling and absolutely addictive debut novel with A Wash of Black! A pacy read that will keep you turning the pages.’ Noelle Holten
‘A pacy murder mystery full of deceit, suspicion and revenge, Chris McDonald’s debut is a highly entertaining tale with plenty of shocks along the way.’ TM Logan
‘A superb tale deftly told with a human touch and a real eye for detail, with a true ‘just one more chapter’ moreishness, A Wash of Black announces Chris McDonald as a superb new voice not just in the Northern literary scene, but across the national crime landscape. Highly recommended.’ Rob Parker
‘An addictive, gripping read that pulls you in and has you hooked.’ Sarah Jones, Lost in the Land of Books blog
‘I have found my new series obsession. McDonald creates a strong, rounded lead in DI Erika Piper and I, for one, cannot wait to read the next.’ M.Sean Coleman
‘I raced through A Wash of Black. Twisty and turny, gruesome and gripping, it will keep you guessing until the very end.’ John Sutherland
‘Dark, compelling and tightly plotted, McDonald has weaved a gripping tale of rage and justice that keeps his audience enthralle
When Ethan Adler set up his new PI agency in central Manchester, he wasn’t expecting his first case to be so high profile – investigating the mysterious death of rock star Dylan Vy.
Ethan has been avoiding the spotlight ever since his beloved wife Maggie’s untimely passing. His grief has been complicated by rumours that Maggie was pregnant with another man’s child at the time of her fatal accident. And because said accident took place just hours after Ethan won the lottery, a cloud of suspicion has followed Ethan ever since.
With the help of his assistant Amelia, Ethan throws himself into uncovering the truth about Dylan Vy. In a fast-escalating investigation, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, lies and deadly connections between bandmates, girlfriends and a volatile manager. And when Dylan's unreleased music is leaked on the dark web, speculation swirls that the lyrics contain hidden clues that might lead to the killer. But who leaked these songs, and what is their secret motive? In the midst of a media frenzy and a storm of fan conspiracy theories, who can Ethan trust?
As Ethan digs deeper, he must also confront his own demons — the lingering questions about Maggie’s death and the growing realisation that those closest to him may have played a role…
PRAISE FOR THE WRONG MAN
'Chris McDonald’s multi-millionaire, Skoda-driving, suspected-of-wife-murdering private eye Ethan Adler is a breath of fresh air. A (literal) rock and roll plot, a gritty Manchester backdrop, and a dark sense of fun … A slice of contemporary PI noir to delight fans of the genre.' Vaseem Khan
'I absolutely loved The Wrong Man. Pacy and addictive, with wonderfully realised characters and a genius central premise, I ripped through it in a day. An expertly told rock and roll murder mystery set in Manchester? Hook it to my veins now…' Adam Simcox
PRAISE FOR CHRIS McDONALD…
‘Wow! Chris McDonald has written a clever, chilling and absolutely addictive debut novel with A Wash of Black! A pacy read that will keep you turning the pages.’ Noelle Holten
‘A pacy murder mystery full of deceit, suspicion and revenge, Chris McDonald’s debut is a highly entertaining tale with plenty of shocks along the way.’ TM Logan
‘A superb tale deftly told with a human touch and a real eye for detail, with a true ‘just one more chapter’ moreishness, A Wash of Black announces Chris McDonald as a superb new voice not just in the Northern literary scene, but across the national crime landscape. Highly recommended.’ Rob Parker
‘An addictive, gripping read that pulls you in and has you hooked.’ Sarah Jones, Lost in the Land of Books blog
‘I have found my new series obsession. McDonald creates a strong, rounded lead in DI Erika Piper and I, for one, cannot wait to read the next.’ M.Sean Coleman
‘I raced through A Wash of Black. Twisty and turny, gruesome and gripping, it will keep you guessing until the very end.’ John Sutherland
‘Dark, compelling and tightly plotted, McDonald has weaved a gripping tale of rage and justice that keeps his audience enthralle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 13, 2026
5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A corker of a first book in a new private investigator crime thriller series! 😍
You know when you’re reading and you just know the book is going to deliver. Well this book sure did this from the very beginning as it was utterly addictive and so easy to snap up the short chapters. McDonald has truly impressed with this start to a brand new series and it gave ever so slight Steve Cavanagh vibes which I loved.
Recently widowed Ethan Adler opens his own private investigator company and hires Amelia, taking on their first case of the death of rockstar Dylan.
The dynamics between Ethan and Amelia worked perfectly. The slight age gap was funny with how un-technologically advanced Ethan was and how Amelia was badass in finding all the information needed. How she became a member of the business made me laugh. I loved how well they got along and really enjoyed this new gritty duo in the crime thriller world.
I loved the crime itself and how the book unravelled with a range of suspects, red herrings and some twists. The rockstar theme was different too. I really couldn’t get enough of this book and was gutted when it ended, as although it was brilliant, I need more of Ethan and Amelia immediately!
A huge thank you @harpernorthuk for this proof copy of The Wrong Man by @cmacwritescrime which published in June.
This is one book you do not want to miss and I cannot wait for the next instalment in the Ethan Adler series! 🙌
Go and check this one out!
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A corker of a first book in a new private investigator crime thriller series! 😍
You know when you’re reading and you just know the book is going to deliver. Well this book sure did this from the very beginning as it was utterly addictive and so easy to snap up the short chapters. McDonald has truly impressed with this start to a brand new series and it gave ever so slight Steve Cavanagh vibes which I loved.
Recently widowed Ethan Adler opens his own private investigator company and hires Amelia, taking on their first case of the death of rockstar Dylan.
The dynamics between Ethan and Amelia worked perfectly. The slight age gap was funny with how un-technologically advanced Ethan was and how Amelia was badass in finding all the information needed. How she became a member of the business made me laugh. I loved how well they got along and really enjoyed this new gritty duo in the crime thriller world.
I loved the crime itself and how the book unravelled with a range of suspects, red herrings and some twists. The rockstar theme was different too. I really couldn’t get enough of this book and was gutted when it ended, as although it was brilliant, I need more of Ethan and Amelia immediately!
A huge thank you @harpernorthuk for this proof copy of The Wrong Man by @cmacwritescrime which published in June.
This is one book you do not want to miss and I cannot wait for the next instalment in the Ethan Adler series! 🙌
Go and check this one out!
⚠️ Please check out the trigger warnings! ⚠️
August 9, 2026
When musician Dylan Vy is found dead, former prison guard turned private investigator Ethan Adler is called in to investigate, alongside his assistant Amelia. But Ethan isn’t exactly starting this new chapter of his life with a clean slate, and his own past continues to attract suspicion. As the pair delve into Dylan’s death, they uncover more questions than answers, making for a gripping first case for this new PI duo.
🎶
I didn’t expect The Wrong Man to hook me quite as quickly as it did, but I shouldn’t have been surprised as @cmacwritescrime has a habit of doing that. I first discovered him under his pen name, Chris Frost, through The Killer’s Christmas List and The Christmas Tree Killer, so when I spotted this one, I didn’t hesitate to pick it up.
And I’m SO glad I did. Ethan and Amelia are a great pairing. They are such an unlikely partnership on the face of it but they work brilliantly together. While Ethan brings the experience and instincts - and enough baggage from his past to keep things interesting; Amelia brings the tech skills, the hacking know-how and the attitude of a sassy 22-year-old who isn’t afraid to speak her mind - unless it comes to her dysfunctional home life.
This was a brilliant introduction to what I’m hoping will be a long and successful series — one I’m very happy to continue because there is definitely some unfinished business there!
🎶
I didn’t expect The Wrong Man to hook me quite as quickly as it did, but I shouldn’t have been surprised as @cmacwritescrime has a habit of doing that. I first discovered him under his pen name, Chris Frost, through The Killer’s Christmas List and The Christmas Tree Killer, so when I spotted this one, I didn’t hesitate to pick it up.
And I’m SO glad I did. Ethan and Amelia are a great pairing. They are such an unlikely partnership on the face of it but they work brilliantly together. While Ethan brings the experience and instincts - and enough baggage from his past to keep things interesting; Amelia brings the tech skills, the hacking know-how and the attitude of a sassy 22-year-old who isn’t afraid to speak her mind - unless it comes to her dysfunctional home life.
This was a brilliant introduction to what I’m hoping will be a long and successful series — one I’m very happy to continue because there is definitely some unfinished business there!
June 10, 2026
Where do I begin with this one? It was like a breath of fresh air to read something different and this one definitely ticked all my boxes.
Short chapters made it impossible to put down and I couldn't read this quick enough.
This book is our introduction to PI Ethan Adler. He has found himself in a position most would be over the moon with. He's just won the lottery, but before he can even begin to celebrate this his beloved wife Maggie has met an untimely passing. People are pointing the finger in Ethan's direction. But is he to blame?
Determined to do some good in the world he has now opened his own Private Investigator agency and it's set in Manchester. His first case is investigation the death of rock start Dylan Vy. He forms a great partnership with the talented and quirky Amelia and off these two go to solve cases. It's an unlikely duo but one that definitely works.
I loved the setting for this book and all the nods to music, Chris kindly shared with me his playlist for this book and it just works so well.
I really enjoyed this book so much and it's definitely one for all you crime thriller lovers to add to your lists. A fantastic read from start to finish!
Short chapters made it impossible to put down and I couldn't read this quick enough.
This book is our introduction to PI Ethan Adler. He has found himself in a position most would be over the moon with. He's just won the lottery, but before he can even begin to celebrate this his beloved wife Maggie has met an untimely passing. People are pointing the finger in Ethan's direction. But is he to blame?
Determined to do some good in the world he has now opened his own Private Investigator agency and it's set in Manchester. His first case is investigation the death of rock start Dylan Vy. He forms a great partnership with the talented and quirky Amelia and off these two go to solve cases. It's an unlikely duo but one that definitely works.
I loved the setting for this book and all the nods to music, Chris kindly shared with me his playlist for this book and it just works so well.
I really enjoyed this book so much and it's definitely one for all you crime thriller lovers to add to your lists. A fantastic read from start to finish!
August 18, 2026
A brand new series set in Manchester featuring a private investigator who's just starting out and an investigation they are possibly not quite ready to take on.
This from the opening page grips and has you captivated by both character and place. The authors knowledge of the area is obvious and to those who live nearby you can see clearly where you are and what the surroundings are quite vividly.
The characters are compelling and the sense of humour in their conversations is often a perfect representation of the banter you have with friends making you invested in both their journey and their relationship.
This is thoroughly recommended as a thriller and detective story, you'll race through and be desperate for book 2 as a result.
This from the opening page grips and has you captivated by both character and place. The authors knowledge of the area is obvious and to those who live nearby you can see clearly where you are and what the surroundings are quite vividly.
The characters are compelling and the sense of humour in their conversations is often a perfect representation of the banter you have with friends making you invested in both their journey and their relationship.
This is thoroughly recommended as a thriller and detective story, you'll race through and be desperate for book 2 as a result.
March 20, 2026
Think I’ve just found my new favourite pi and Amelia!
I really enjoyed this one such an interesting case well thought out with some twists. I can’t wait for more!
I really enjoyed this one such an interesting case well thought out with some twists. I can’t wait for more!
February 28, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of The Wrong Man by Chris McDonald
This was a slick, compelling thriller that had me hooked from the start. Private investigator Ethan Adler leads the charge in untangling what looks like a rock star’s tragic overdose but nothing about this case is as it seems. As Ethan digs deeper, the surface story peels away to reveal deception, hidden motives and a truth that’s far more sinister than anyone anticipated.
One of the novel’s real strengths is Ethan’s partnership with Amelia, his sharp witted and likeable assistant. She provides the perfect foil to his intensity, grounding the investigation with clear eyed observation, sassy demeanour and adding warmth to the narrative without diminishing the tension. Their dynamic is a real highlight and makes the investigative journey all the more engaging.
The pacing is excellent, with well timed twists and a layered mystery that kept me turning pages. The author balances character depth with plot momentum so that both the psychological and procedural elements feel fully realised. The resolution is satisfying and unpredictable in all the right ways.
A clever, character-driven thriller with a striking central mystery and a duo you’ll enjoy following and very well-deserved five stars.
This was a slick, compelling thriller that had me hooked from the start. Private investigator Ethan Adler leads the charge in untangling what looks like a rock star’s tragic overdose but nothing about this case is as it seems. As Ethan digs deeper, the surface story peels away to reveal deception, hidden motives and a truth that’s far more sinister than anyone anticipated.
One of the novel’s real strengths is Ethan’s partnership with Amelia, his sharp witted and likeable assistant. She provides the perfect foil to his intensity, grounding the investigation with clear eyed observation, sassy demeanour and adding warmth to the narrative without diminishing the tension. Their dynamic is a real highlight and makes the investigative journey all the more engaging.
The pacing is excellent, with well timed twists and a layered mystery that kept me turning pages. The author balances character depth with plot momentum so that both the psychological and procedural elements feel fully realised. The resolution is satisfying and unpredictable in all the right ways.
A clever, character-driven thriller with a striking central mystery and a duo you’ll enjoy following and very well-deserved five stars.
April 20, 2026
I picked up a bookmark at Stockport Noir featuring The Wrong Man and I’ve been looking forward to reading it ever since so I was thrilled when I got early access to it on NetGalley.
What a great thriller this is, I was gripped from the first page. It features Ethan a widower, lottery winner and former Prison Officer based in Manchester. Ethan was questioned about his wife’ Maggie’s death and consequently is the focus of unpleasant rumours calling him “the wife killer”.
He decides to start a new career as a Private Investigator and he gets his first commission when the father of a dead rock star who apparently died from a drugs overdose, asks him to look into how his son really died. Assisting Ethan with his investigation is Amelia his unorthodox receptionist. They make a fantastic double act and I can’t wait to read more in this series,
I have read the Christmas themed books Chris writes under the pseudonym Chris Frost and loved them too.
Thank you to NetGalley, Chris and the publisher for this advanced copy.
What a great thriller this is, I was gripped from the first page. It features Ethan a widower, lottery winner and former Prison Officer based in Manchester. Ethan was questioned about his wife’ Maggie’s death and consequently is the focus of unpleasant rumours calling him “the wife killer”.
He decides to start a new career as a Private Investigator and he gets his first commission when the father of a dead rock star who apparently died from a drugs overdose, asks him to look into how his son really died. Assisting Ethan with his investigation is Amelia his unorthodox receptionist. They make a fantastic double act and I can’t wait to read more in this series,
I have read the Christmas themed books Chris writes under the pseudonym Chris Frost and loved them too.
Thank you to NetGalley, Chris and the publisher for this advanced copy.
July 3, 2026
I read this whilst on holiday and was transfixed throughout. What a fabulous way to start a new series.
I first met Chris McDonald when he was a book blogger way back in 2019, I always admired his reviews and when he went on to get a publishing deal with (the much missed) Red Dog Books, I was there for those. My signed copies sit proudly on my shelf, and I now see that Harper North have repackaged and republished those. As Chris Frost he has written his Christmas crime series, which I've enjoyed too and now we have PI Ethan Adler and his assistant Amelia - and what a fabulous duo they are.
Ethan Adler is a fascinating leading man. A newly qualified private investigator, he's still carrying the weight of personal tragedy and the shadow of public suspicion following the death of his wife. His first case certainly isn't a gentle introduction to life as a PI; investigating the death of rock star Dylan Vy throws him straight into a world of celebrity, secrets, lies and endless speculation. As the investigation gathers pace, the tangled relationships between bandmates, former lovers, management and devoted fans really make this a deliciously compelling story that had me totally engrossed throughout.
I adored this quirky, original and perfectly formed cast of characters. Ethan is thoughtful and vulnerable and also really determined. Then there's Amelia, his assistant, who is an absolute delight. She brings such warmth and humour to every scene, and together they make a fabulous investigative duo. Their friendship develops so naturally, with plenty of really cracking exchanges, that make me chuckle and they seem really fond of each other.
Chris McDonald balances the darker themes beautifully with moments of warmth and gentle humour. Alongside the murder investigation he weaves in Ethan's own unresolved grief and the unanswered questions surrounding his wife Maggie's death, adding real emotional depth without ever slowing the pace. The Manchester setting feels so real and the backdrop of the music industry gives the story an extra sparkle and a wonderfully fresh feel.
The plotting is clever, confident and beautifully constructed, with twists arriving at exactly the right moment. Every time I thought I had worked things out, another surprise appeared around the corner. Best of all, nothing feels forced, or awkward and everything slots perfectly into place.
The Wrong Man is a fabulous start to what I am convinced is going to be a brilliant new series. Engaging characters, an irresistible mystery and great writing make this an absolute joy to read. I cannot wait to see where Ethan and Amelia take us next. Highly recommended.
I first met Chris McDonald when he was a book blogger way back in 2019, I always admired his reviews and when he went on to get a publishing deal with (the much missed) Red Dog Books, I was there for those. My signed copies sit proudly on my shelf, and I now see that Harper North have repackaged and republished those. As Chris Frost he has written his Christmas crime series, which I've enjoyed too and now we have PI Ethan Adler and his assistant Amelia - and what a fabulous duo they are.
Ethan Adler is a fascinating leading man. A newly qualified private investigator, he's still carrying the weight of personal tragedy and the shadow of public suspicion following the death of his wife. His first case certainly isn't a gentle introduction to life as a PI; investigating the death of rock star Dylan Vy throws him straight into a world of celebrity, secrets, lies and endless speculation. As the investigation gathers pace, the tangled relationships between bandmates, former lovers, management and devoted fans really make this a deliciously compelling story that had me totally engrossed throughout.
I adored this quirky, original and perfectly formed cast of characters. Ethan is thoughtful and vulnerable and also really determined. Then there's Amelia, his assistant, who is an absolute delight. She brings such warmth and humour to every scene, and together they make a fabulous investigative duo. Their friendship develops so naturally, with plenty of really cracking exchanges, that make me chuckle and they seem really fond of each other.
Chris McDonald balances the darker themes beautifully with moments of warmth and gentle humour. Alongside the murder investigation he weaves in Ethan's own unresolved grief and the unanswered questions surrounding his wife Maggie's death, adding real emotional depth without ever slowing the pace. The Manchester setting feels so real and the backdrop of the music industry gives the story an extra sparkle and a wonderfully fresh feel.
The plotting is clever, confident and beautifully constructed, with twists arriving at exactly the right moment. Every time I thought I had worked things out, another surprise appeared around the corner. Best of all, nothing feels forced, or awkward and everything slots perfectly into place.
The Wrong Man is a fabulous start to what I am convinced is going to be a brilliant new series. Engaging characters, an irresistible mystery and great writing make this an absolute joy to read. I cannot wait to see where Ethan and Amelia take us next. Highly recommended.
June 7, 2026
This is the first book in a new Private Investigator-themed thriller series, and it was a brilliant start. Thank you, @harpercollins for gifting me this in return for an honest review.
As soon as it came through my door, I dove right in and finished it within two days.
It's the first time I've read this author's work, who has previously written under Chris Frost and I'll certainly keep up with this series.
The book begins with a tragic story of a rock star who dies from a heroin overdose.
PI Ethan Adler is sought out by the rock star Dylan Vy's father, as he suspects there is more to this story and it's not suicide, as the police have prematurely ruled.
This is Ethan's first case as a PI, and he is determined to find out the truth. He and his newly recruited assistant, Amelia, set to work on the case, which will be make-or-break for their new firm.
Ethan has recently lost his wife, Maggie, and has been under scrutiny himself for her death. Although Maggie wasn't as innocent as he once thought, as he had only recently found out she was having an affair.
There was so much going on within this story it was hard to put down. It's extremely well-layered, with many subplots to unpick, but everything works seamlessly. The story is ordered and meticulous, making it easy to follow and encourages you to play the game of guess who.
It has a variable pace, which I did find a little bit slow in places for my liking. Although I often find this can be the case with book1 one in a series. The strong character development did make up for it.
I really enjoyed Ethan's and Amelia's spark, which made the story come to life. Their newly found colleague/friendship was authentic; they had different personalities but jelled in all the right places. Amelia really captured my attention; she was smart, witty, and very entertaining. Her 'grey areas' of working were brilliant and a great catch to the case.
The book had great woven-in twists, which added to the overall tension and suspense of the story. This was a clever and engaging mystery, which finished on a cliffhanger, leaving you wanting more.
As soon as it came through my door, I dove right in and finished it within two days.
It's the first time I've read this author's work, who has previously written under Chris Frost and I'll certainly keep up with this series.
The book begins with a tragic story of a rock star who dies from a heroin overdose.
PI Ethan Adler is sought out by the rock star Dylan Vy's father, as he suspects there is more to this story and it's not suicide, as the police have prematurely ruled.
This is Ethan's first case as a PI, and he is determined to find out the truth. He and his newly recruited assistant, Amelia, set to work on the case, which will be make-or-break for their new firm.
Ethan has recently lost his wife, Maggie, and has been under scrutiny himself for her death. Although Maggie wasn't as innocent as he once thought, as he had only recently found out she was having an affair.
There was so much going on within this story it was hard to put down. It's extremely well-layered, with many subplots to unpick, but everything works seamlessly. The story is ordered and meticulous, making it easy to follow and encourages you to play the game of guess who.
It has a variable pace, which I did find a little bit slow in places for my liking. Although I often find this can be the case with book1 one in a series. The strong character development did make up for it.
I really enjoyed Ethan's and Amelia's spark, which made the story come to life. Their newly found colleague/friendship was authentic; they had different personalities but jelled in all the right places. Amelia really captured my attention; she was smart, witty, and very entertaining. Her 'grey areas' of working were brilliant and a great catch to the case.
The book had great woven-in twists, which added to the overall tension and suspense of the story. This was a clever and engaging mystery, which finished on a cliffhanger, leaving you wanting more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperNorth for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
This is the first of Chris' books I have read. I thought I had read others, but then I realised I'd read a book by Chris MacDonald, who is apparently a completely different person!
Ethan was instantly likeable, as was Amelia. They worked really well off of each other, even though they were completely different. Ethan was a bit lost and grieving but he wanted to help others. And Amelia was just such great fun! And in fact I would say at times that Amelia was the star of the whole thing.
What I thought was interesting was that Chris hasn't just gone for the tense heart-pounding thriller, although it is that. But he's given so much time and attention to other themes: loss and grief, addiction, the pitfalls of fame.
I lost myself in it immediately, it was so good that I sped through it in a day.
This might sound weird considering it isn't one, but go with me, it had a sense of a locked room mystery. Let me be clear, there is no locked room mystery in it. That's not a spoiler. But I couldn't get this feeling out of my head, this impossibility of it all.
Thrillers are my most read genre and whilst this still had all the tropes I wanted, and it wasn't necessarily original, it still had enough differences in it to make it feel fresh and exciting.
To be honest, I didn't really mind what the outcome was, who actually did it. I was far more interesting in the story to get there than actually who had done what, but it is still an enjoyable ending.
It was so slick. The writing was excellent, the pacing just right, the tension dialled up but never overwhelming, the characters all brilliantly created (even if not all are likeable), and a believable plot.
I can confidently say I'll be checking out his other books.
Will this be the start of a series? I hope so as I really want to follow Ethan and Amelia into further cases.
This is the first of Chris' books I have read. I thought I had read others, but then I realised I'd read a book by Chris MacDonald, who is apparently a completely different person!
Ethan was instantly likeable, as was Amelia. They worked really well off of each other, even though they were completely different. Ethan was a bit lost and grieving but he wanted to help others. And Amelia was just such great fun! And in fact I would say at times that Amelia was the star of the whole thing.
What I thought was interesting was that Chris hasn't just gone for the tense heart-pounding thriller, although it is that. But he's given so much time and attention to other themes: loss and grief, addiction, the pitfalls of fame.
I lost myself in it immediately, it was so good that I sped through it in a day.
This might sound weird considering it isn't one, but go with me, it had a sense of a locked room mystery. Let me be clear, there is no locked room mystery in it. That's not a spoiler. But I couldn't get this feeling out of my head, this impossibility of it all.
Thrillers are my most read genre and whilst this still had all the tropes I wanted, and it wasn't necessarily original, it still had enough differences in it to make it feel fresh and exciting.
To be honest, I didn't really mind what the outcome was, who actually did it. I was far more interesting in the story to get there than actually who had done what, but it is still an enjoyable ending.
It was so slick. The writing was excellent, the pacing just right, the tension dialled up but never overwhelming, the characters all brilliantly created (even if not all are likeable), and a believable plot.
I can confidently say I'll be checking out his other books.
Will this be the start of a series? I hope so as I really want to follow Ethan and Amelia into further cases.
June 9, 2026
The Wrong Man follows Ethan, a PI still living under suspicion after his wife Maggie’s death. His first case - the murder of rock star Dylan Vy - pulls him and his assistant Amelia into the spotlight as they expose a tangle of secrets involving bandmates, lovers and a volatile manager. Then when Dylan’s unreleased music leaks online, fans claim the lyrics point to a killer. With conspiracies swirling and danger closing in, Ethan must solve Dylan’s murder - and finally confront the truth about Maggie…
The Wrong Man is twisty, gripping and completely addictive, and I loved everything about it.
The character work in this book is exceptional. Ethan is a complex, flawed and compelling protagonist, and I was fully invested in his story. I also absolutely adored Amelia. Their partnership has a real yin-and-yang energy, each bringing something different to the table while complementing one another perfectly. Their interactions ended up being some of my favourite moments in the entire book.
The plot is layered, complex and meticulously written, packed with twists that genuinely kept me guessing. The pacing is excellent, maintaining a constant sense of momentum while still allowing space for meaningful character development and thoughtful exploration of themes such as grief, trust, addiction, guilt and deception. Woven throughout it all is the mystery surrounding Maggie, and that persistent sense of doubt and suspicion adds a fascinating layer of emotional depth that elevates the entire story far beyond a standard crime novel.
This was one of those books that completely took over my thoughts. If I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it or recommending it to someone else. An easy five-star read, and after that ending, I desperately need the next book!!
Thank you so much to Harper North for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
The Wrong Man is twisty, gripping and completely addictive, and I loved everything about it.
The character work in this book is exceptional. Ethan is a complex, flawed and compelling protagonist, and I was fully invested in his story. I also absolutely adored Amelia. Their partnership has a real yin-and-yang energy, each bringing something different to the table while complementing one another perfectly. Their interactions ended up being some of my favourite moments in the entire book.
The plot is layered, complex and meticulously written, packed with twists that genuinely kept me guessing. The pacing is excellent, maintaining a constant sense of momentum while still allowing space for meaningful character development and thoughtful exploration of themes such as grief, trust, addiction, guilt and deception. Woven throughout it all is the mystery surrounding Maggie, and that persistent sense of doubt and suspicion adds a fascinating layer of emotional depth that elevates the entire story far beyond a standard crime novel.
This was one of those books that completely took over my thoughts. If I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it or recommending it to someone else. An easy five-star read, and after that ending, I desperately need the next book!!
Thank you so much to Harper North for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
June 10, 2026
The Wrong Man is a sharp, emotionally layered PI thriller that combines classic detective storytelling with modern media culture, grief, and conspiracy fueled suspense. Chris McDonald introduces Ethan Adler as a compelling and refreshingly unconventional investigator a man carrying both public suspicion and private heartbreak while trying to build a new life.
What immediately stands out is the atmosphere. The Manchester setting feels gritty, contemporary, and vividly alive, giving the novel a strong noir edge without losing its accessibility or momentum. The mystery surrounding Dylan Vy’s death unfolds at exactly the right pace, steadily pulling readers deeper into a tangled network of secrets, damaged relationships, and hidden motives.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is the emotional weight behind the investigation. Ethan’s unresolved grief surrounding Maggie’s death adds genuine depth to the story, making the novel feel far more personal than a straightforward murder mystery. The questions surrounding his past create a constant undercurrent of tension that elevates every interaction and decision.
The inclusion of leaked music, online speculation, and fan conspiracy theories also gives the novel a distinctly modern feel while keeping the suspense tight and believable. McDonald balances character development, atmosphere, and pacing extremely well, delivering twists that feel earned rather than manufactured.
Smart, engaging, and highly readable, The Wrong Man is an excellent start to what promises to be a standout PI thriller series.
What immediately stands out is the atmosphere. The Manchester setting feels gritty, contemporary, and vividly alive, giving the novel a strong noir edge without losing its accessibility or momentum. The mystery surrounding Dylan Vy’s death unfolds at exactly the right pace, steadily pulling readers deeper into a tangled network of secrets, damaged relationships, and hidden motives.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is the emotional weight behind the investigation. Ethan’s unresolved grief surrounding Maggie’s death adds genuine depth to the story, making the novel feel far more personal than a straightforward murder mystery. The questions surrounding his past create a constant undercurrent of tension that elevates every interaction and decision.
The inclusion of leaked music, online speculation, and fan conspiracy theories also gives the novel a distinctly modern feel while keeping the suspense tight and believable. McDonald balances character development, atmosphere, and pacing extremely well, delivering twists that feel earned rather than manufactured.
Smart, engaging, and highly readable, The Wrong Man is an excellent start to what promises to be a standout PI thriller series.
June 23, 2026
Ethan Adler has just become a private investigator and should be enjoying life after winning £10 million on the lottery. Instead, his world was turned upside down when his wife, Maggie, died in what appears to be a tragic accident. Ethan quickly became the main suspect, with both the police and those around him questioning his involvement. But what really happened to Maggie?
Determined to move forward, Ethan buys a new apartment and sets up his own PI business. His first case involves the death of rising rock star Dylan Vy. Although the authorities have ruled Dylan’s death as an accidental overdose, his father is convinced that his son was murdered. As Ethan begins to investigate, he uncovers plenty of secrets and suspects, making it difficult to know who can be trusted.
I really enjoyed the partnership between Ethan and Amelia, the quirky office assistant who unexpectedly becomes an important part of the team. Their interactions added warmth and humour to the story and made them both very likeable characters.
The story is told through short, fast-paced chapters that kept me turning the pages. There were plenty of twists, red herrings, and suspects to keep me guessing, while the mystery surrounding Maggie’s death added another intriguing layer to the plot.
I’ve read all of this author’s previous books and have enjoyed every one of them. This is a fantastic start to what promises to be an excellent new series, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Highly recommended for fans of crime fiction and private investigator mysteries.
Determined to move forward, Ethan buys a new apartment and sets up his own PI business. His first case involves the death of rising rock star Dylan Vy. Although the authorities have ruled Dylan’s death as an accidental overdose, his father is convinced that his son was murdered. As Ethan begins to investigate, he uncovers plenty of secrets and suspects, making it difficult to know who can be trusted.
I really enjoyed the partnership between Ethan and Amelia, the quirky office assistant who unexpectedly becomes an important part of the team. Their interactions added warmth and humour to the story and made them both very likeable characters.
The story is told through short, fast-paced chapters that kept me turning the pages. There were plenty of twists, red herrings, and suspects to keep me guessing, while the mystery surrounding Maggie’s death added another intriguing layer to the plot.
I’ve read all of this author’s previous books and have enjoyed every one of them. This is a fantastic start to what promises to be an excellent new series, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what happens next.
Highly recommended for fans of crime fiction and private investigator mysteries.
July 13, 2026
A fantastic start to a new Private Investigator Detective Series by Chris McDonald.
The story follows a newly widowed, multi millionaire lottery winner Ethan Adler who has set up a PI Detective Agency after leaving his job as a Prison Officer.
His first case; investigating the mysterious death of high profile rockstar, Dylan Vy.
With the help of his assistant Amelia, Ethan throws himself into uncovering the truth about Dylan Vy. In a fast-escalating investigation, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, lies and deadly connections between bandmates, girlfriends and a volatile manager. And when Dylan's unreleased music is leaked on the dark web, speculation swirls that the lyrics contain hidden clues that might lead to the killer. But who leaked these songs, and what is their secret motive? In the midst of a media frenzy and a storm of fan conspiracy theories, who can Ethan trust?
I loved everything about this book: the setting (Manchester), the twists, turns, and intrigue. It was a very well paced crime thriller with well fleshed out characters. I loved the partnership with Ethan and his assistant Amelia, who is so tech savvy, funny, and simply brilliant.
The plotting is clever, compelling and believable.
I was hooked from the start and cannot wait for the next instalment in the series.
I highly recommend.
The story follows a newly widowed, multi millionaire lottery winner Ethan Adler who has set up a PI Detective Agency after leaving his job as a Prison Officer.
His first case; investigating the mysterious death of high profile rockstar, Dylan Vy.
With the help of his assistant Amelia, Ethan throws himself into uncovering the truth about Dylan Vy. In a fast-escalating investigation, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, lies and deadly connections between bandmates, girlfriends and a volatile manager. And when Dylan's unreleased music is leaked on the dark web, speculation swirls that the lyrics contain hidden clues that might lead to the killer. But who leaked these songs, and what is their secret motive? In the midst of a media frenzy and a storm of fan conspiracy theories, who can Ethan trust?
I loved everything about this book: the setting (Manchester), the twists, turns, and intrigue. It was a very well paced crime thriller with well fleshed out characters. I loved the partnership with Ethan and his assistant Amelia, who is so tech savvy, funny, and simply brilliant.
The plotting is clever, compelling and believable.
I was hooked from the start and cannot wait for the next instalment in the series.
I highly recommend.
June 20, 2026
4.25 Stars
The Wrong Man is a solid start to what I expect will be an entertaining new PI series from Chris McDonald.
After simultaneously winning the lottery and losing his wife, former prison officer Ethan Adler decides it’s time for a career change and launches his own private investigation business. His first case? Determining whether the death of a young rock star was truly an overdose…or something much more sinister.
The mystery itself was strong and kept me engaged. The investigation unfolded at a good pace, with enough twists and questions to keep me turning the pages. My standout character was Amelia! I honestly would have loved even more of her. She brought a lot of personality to the story and often stole the scene whenever she appeared.
While I liked Ethan, I found him a little underdeveloped compared to some of the supporting cast. There’s definitely room for growth, though, and the ending sets things up nicely for future books to explore his character in greater depth.
Overall, this was a solid crime thriller with a compelling central mystery and plenty of potential for the series moving forward. I’ll definitely be interested in seeing where Ethan’s story goes next.
A strong start to a new crime series.
The Wrong Man is a solid start to what I expect will be an entertaining new PI series from Chris McDonald.
After simultaneously winning the lottery and losing his wife, former prison officer Ethan Adler decides it’s time for a career change and launches his own private investigation business. His first case? Determining whether the death of a young rock star was truly an overdose…or something much more sinister.
The mystery itself was strong and kept me engaged. The investigation unfolded at a good pace, with enough twists and questions to keep me turning the pages. My standout character was Amelia! I honestly would have loved even more of her. She brought a lot of personality to the story and often stole the scene whenever she appeared.
While I liked Ethan, I found him a little underdeveloped compared to some of the supporting cast. There’s definitely room for growth, though, and the ending sets things up nicely for future books to explore his character in greater depth.
Overall, this was a solid crime thriller with a compelling central mystery and plenty of potential for the series moving forward. I’ll definitely be interested in seeing where Ethan’s story goes next.
A strong start to a new crime series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Wrong Man follows Ethan as he takes on his first PI case investigating the murder of a rock star, at the same time dealing with his own personal tragedies.
This is a fantastic read. I was hooked from the very first chapter.
There was something about the introduction of Ethan and his assistant Amelia that made me want to keep reading. I loved how they seemed like complete opposites but worked together as a team. It felt like Tilly and Poe meets Strike and Robin.
The setting was just perfect for the fast-paced plot. Even if you've never been to Manchester you would get a real sense of the city.
As soon as I finished reading I immediately wanted to see more from these characters, I can't wait to see where this series goes next.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperNorth for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
This is a fantastic read. I was hooked from the very first chapter.
There was something about the introduction of Ethan and his assistant Amelia that made me want to keep reading. I loved how they seemed like complete opposites but worked together as a team. It felt like Tilly and Poe meets Strike and Robin.
The setting was just perfect for the fast-paced plot. Even if you've never been to Manchester you would get a real sense of the city.
As soon as I finished reading I immediately wanted to see more from these characters, I can't wait to see where this series goes next.
Thank you NetGalley and HarperNorth for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2026
Great story, very different to the Erika Piper series. Funny and clever. About half way through it starts to feel this a set up for a series rather than a stand alone, but enjoyed following Ethan's foray into becoming a PI. There were couple of points where I thought the dialogue could be tightened up and sometimes the language used by the "bad guys" seemed a little incongruous. Four stars because I'm sure there's better to come as the series progresses. One point (and not a spoiler) I was disappointed by one thing that happened between Ethan & Amelia at the end, it just seemed unnecessary and there were other ways Ethan could have shown is appreciation.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ethan Adler, after the loss of his wife, Maggie, and a win on the Lottery, sets up a Private Investigation firm in Manchester. Ethan along with his new assistant, Amelia Hope are hired to look into the mysterious death of a rockstar called Dylan Vy, from Crimson Riot. I loved the characters of Ethan and Amelia and they worked so well together. It was entertaining, full of unexpected plot twists, gripping, gritty, tension filled moments, unputdownable, and vivid descriptions of Manchester. More Ethan and Amelia please!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
A thoroughly enjoyable mystery with an engaging mix of suspense, secrets and unexpected twists. Ethan Adler is a likeable and layered protagonist, and his personal story adds an extra dimension to the investigation. The blend of celebrity intrigue and online conspiracy theories adds an interesting layer to the plot.
An absorbing read with memorable characters and a cleverly woven mystery. Looking forward to the next instalment.
A thoroughly enjoyable mystery with an engaging mix of suspense, secrets and unexpected twists. Ethan Adler is a likeable and layered protagonist, and his personal story adds an extra dimension to the investigation. The blend of celebrity intrigue and online conspiracy theories adds an interesting layer to the plot.
An absorbing read with memorable characters and a cleverly woven mystery. Looking forward to the next instalment.
August 5, 2026
An absolute page-turner of a read
From the onset this book had me gripped. Twists and turns abound, this was a crime thriller that kept on giving. If you are a fan of MW Craven's Tilly and Poe series, then personally I think you'll absolutely live this new duo - Amelia is to Ethan as Tilly is to Poe - absolutely brilliant duo - and if you are not yet familiar, but love a darn good read then you will certainly not be disappointed reading this. Cannot wait for the next installment.
From the onset this book had me gripped. Twists and turns abound, this was a crime thriller that kept on giving. If you are a fan of MW Craven's Tilly and Poe series, then personally I think you'll absolutely live this new duo - Amelia is to Ethan as Tilly is to Poe - absolutely brilliant duo - and if you are not yet familiar, but love a darn good read then you will certainly not be disappointed reading this. Cannot wait for the next installment.
July 21, 2026
I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. It drew me in from the first page and kept me gripped to the last page, the characters and the story were so well drawn I can’t wait to read more featuring Ethan and Amelia. I will be recommending this book to everyone I know.
August 6, 2026
3.5 stars rounding up. Set in the Manchester indie music scene? Sold immediately! Loved PI Ethan and his new assistant Amelia right from the start, and watching their partnership build while investigating the suspicious death of front man Dylan Vy was a good ride. Entertaining mystery, great atmosphere, and easily sets up what has to be a new series.
Read
June 19, 2026Had a feeling I would love this book and it didn’t disappoint. Great backdrop of Manchester and music. What’s not to love.
Hoping he writes another in the series as enjoyed the characters and would like to see them develop
Hoping he writes another in the series as enjoyed the characters and would like to see them develop
June 20, 2026
I really enjoyed this book but it was very slow at times. Although being the first in a new series I can understand it. The storyline was good and the ending was good. I will certainly read the next book if there is one! I still recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Really hope this is going to be a series!
June 18, 2026
A witty private detective story, a bit plain though.
June 23, 2026
Oh this is a cracking book. I'm so pleased it's the first in a new series. I just love the assistant Amelia! I can't wait to read what shenanigans she gets up to next. Oh and Ethan of course.
June 24, 2026
It lagged around the 70% area which is why the three instead of four star rating. Otherwise, it was a good story. I'll be trying another one in the series when it's available.
August 7, 2026
Audiobook
August 18, 2026
On a roll with these 5 star reviews - another brilliant one 👏
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