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Detective Vincent Swann #1
In the Dark Places
He came home to escape his past. Now it’s back to haunt him.
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep his spine. Home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life. He took a child…
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no-one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars, and whether he caught the wrong man or it’s a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child…
A totally gripping and absolutely unputdownable thriller from bestselling author Helen H. Durrant. Readers of Angela Marsons, Helen Fields and D.S. Butler will be hooked from the very first page!
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep his spine. Home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life. He took a child…
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no-one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars, and whether he caught the wrong man or it’s a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child…
A totally gripping and absolutely unputdownable thriller from bestselling author Helen H. Durrant. Readers of Angela Marsons, Helen Fields and D.S. Butler will be hooked from the very first page!
- GenresProcedural
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2026
About the author
Helen H. Durrant
51 books634 followersI'm a woman of a certain age with a vocabulary addiction and no plans to recover.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 10, 2026
In this new series, Detective Vincent Swann relocates from a rural community to Manchester with its big-city problems. Yet he's no stranger to the city, as he grew up in the area and knows the players. In fact, he went to school with them. Yet not everyone's happy to see him back, including the team's other DI who, like Swann, is being considered for the top job at the station. But first, they must work together to find a killer and a missing child before it's too late.
There's a lot of tension and action in this murder-mystery thriller, with many surprises along the way. The excellent narration kept me rapt. I look forward to more entries in this series. 4.5 rounded up.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BookoutureAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #IntheDarkPlaces for review purposes. Publication date: 17 August 2026.
There's a lot of tension and action in this murder-mystery thriller, with many surprises along the way. The excellent narration kept me rapt. I look forward to more entries in this series. 4.5 rounded up.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BookoutureAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #IntheDarkPlaces for review purposes. Publication date: 17 August 2026.
Want to Read
August 9, 2026عاد إلى دياره هربًا من ماضيه، والآن عاد ليطارده.
ينحني المحقق فينسنت سوان فوق جثة شابة في الوحل، وعيناها الزجاجيتان تعكسان أفق مانشستر المتوهج، فيشعر بقشعريرة مألوفة تسري في جسده. بعد عودته إلى دياره إثر قضية كادت تودي بحياته، يعلم أنه لا يستطيع خوض غمار الأمور مع فريقه الجديد. لكن مسارات عربات الأطفال التي تبتعد عن مسرح الجريمة تعني أن القاتل لم يزهق روحًا فحسب، بل خطف طفلة...
يبدو سوان، ببدلته الأنيقة، غريبًا عن المكان، لكن لا أحد يعرف زوايا المدينة المظلمة مثله. وبينما يعبث بهاتفه الاحتياطي في جيبه، تخبره غرائزه ألا يُجري المكالمة، لكن كل ثانية مهمة.
ثم يرى الشريط الوردي الباهت موضوعًا بعناية على الأرض غير بعيد عن الجثة، فتضيق عليه أسوار المدينة. إنها بصمة القاتل الذي ضحى بكل شيء ليزج به خلف القضبان، وسواء أكان قد قبض على الرجل الخطأ أم أنه مقلد، يدرك سوان أن خطرًا جسيمًا يفصله عن إنقاذ تلك الطفلة المفقودة...
رواية تشويق آسرة ومثيرة للغاية من الكاتبة الأكثر مبيعًا هيلين هـ. دورانت. سيُفتن بها مستمعو أنجيلا مارسونز وهيلين فيلدز ودي. إس. بتلر منذ البداية!
ينحني المحقق فينسنت سوان فوق جثة شابة في الوحل، وعيناها الزجاجيتان تعكسان أفق مانشستر المتوهج، فيشعر بقشعريرة مألوفة تسري في جسده. بعد عودته إلى دياره إثر قضية كادت تودي بحياته، يعلم أنه لا يستطيع خوض غمار الأمور مع فريقه الجديد. لكن مسارات عربات الأطفال التي تبتعد عن مسرح الجريمة تعني أن القاتل لم يزهق روحًا فحسب، بل خطف طفلة...
يبدو سوان، ببدلته الأنيقة، غريبًا عن المكان، لكن لا أحد يعرف زوايا المدينة المظلمة مثله. وبينما يعبث بهاتفه الاحتياطي في جيبه، تخبره غرائزه ألا يُجري المكالمة، لكن كل ثانية مهمة.
ثم يرى الشريط الوردي الباهت موضوعًا بعناية على الأرض غير بعيد عن الجثة، فتضيق عليه أسوار المدينة. إنها بصمة القاتل الذي ضحى بكل شيء ليزج به خلف القضبان، وسواء أكان قد قبض على الرجل الخطأ أم أنه مقلد، يدرك سوان أن خطرًا جسيمًا يفصله عن إنقاذ تلك الطفلة المفقودة...
رواية تشويق آسرة ومثيرة للغاية من الكاتبة الأكثر مبيعًا هيلين هـ. دورانت. سيُفتن بها مستمعو أنجيلا مارسونز وهيلين فيلدز ودي. إس. بتلر منذ البداية!
August 13, 2026
I was open minded going into this as I’d tried audiobooks before and have mostly been left underwhelmed, this one however was the complete opposite.
The opening is brutal, bloody, gruesome and gave me chills, I loved it. I was hooked from that moment, the narration was excellent and would be the kind of story I’d easily binge if it was a TV Series.
Really glad I stumbled upon this twisty rollercoaster and now can’t wait for the next one in the Detective Vincent Swann series.
Really well written with an ending I wasn’t even close to working out 😮
The opening is brutal, bloody, gruesome and gave me chills, I loved it. I was hooked from that moment, the narration was excellent and would be the kind of story I’d easily binge if it was a TV Series.
Really glad I stumbled upon this twisty rollercoaster and now can’t wait for the next one in the Detective Vincent Swann series.
Really well written with an ending I wasn’t even close to working out 😮
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have been with this author since her first Calladine and Bayliss book and followed that series, and indeed some of her others, particularly Greco and Brindle, as they were released.
This is the start of another new series, this time featuring DI Vincent Swann as he returns home after his last case nearly cost him everything. Unfortunately for him, his past doesn't stay there and, soon enough, it becomes apparent that moving home has not taken him away from said past as it appears to have followed him...
No sooner than he has arrived than he is drawn into a nasty case. A woman is dead. That's bad enough, but beside her is an empty pram. The child missing. And, as it transpires, it's the child of one of the kingpins of the area. A world which Vincent thought he had left behind him, but is still in some way connected to.
And to add to his woes. There's a DCI job up for grabs and he is pitted against the current, established, DI of the team he has joined - Kat Jardine. So, as well as having to pull together to get the case solved, they are also competing against each other for promotion...
And then there's his secret. His second phone. And his repeated disappearances. Connected to his past. A past that is blurring the lines of his present case...
Have I tickled your fancy yet...? There is a lot going on in this book - both within and outwith the case being investigated. But, although there is an awful lot going on personally for the detectives, the author manages to keep the balance right, and the case meaty enough to satisfy my needs.
It probably helped that I took to Vincent from the off - he intrigued me and drip fed me enough backstory to keep me going, divulging a bit at a time, teasing me, until he finally spilled the beans. All without annoying or frustrating me!
And the case, the investigation, the clues, the red herrings, the secrets, lies and obfuscation, also held my attention nicely all the way through. Spitting me out at the end, exhausted from the ride, but also wholly satisfied and gagging for more of the same.
All in all, another winner from this most prolific and talented author. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This is the start of another new series, this time featuring DI Vincent Swann as he returns home after his last case nearly cost him everything. Unfortunately for him, his past doesn't stay there and, soon enough, it becomes apparent that moving home has not taken him away from said past as it appears to have followed him...
No sooner than he has arrived than he is drawn into a nasty case. A woman is dead. That's bad enough, but beside her is an empty pram. The child missing. And, as it transpires, it's the child of one of the kingpins of the area. A world which Vincent thought he had left behind him, but is still in some way connected to.
And to add to his woes. There's a DCI job up for grabs and he is pitted against the current, established, DI of the team he has joined - Kat Jardine. So, as well as having to pull together to get the case solved, they are also competing against each other for promotion...
And then there's his secret. His second phone. And his repeated disappearances. Connected to his past. A past that is blurring the lines of his present case...
Have I tickled your fancy yet...? There is a lot going on in this book - both within and outwith the case being investigated. But, although there is an awful lot going on personally for the detectives, the author manages to keep the balance right, and the case meaty enough to satisfy my needs.
It probably helped that I took to Vincent from the off - he intrigued me and drip fed me enough backstory to keep me going, divulging a bit at a time, teasing me, until he finally spilled the beans. All without annoying or frustrating me!
And the case, the investigation, the clues, the red herrings, the secrets, lies and obfuscation, also held my attention nicely all the way through. Spitting me out at the end, exhausted from the ride, but also wholly satisfied and gagging for more of the same.
All in all, another winner from this most prolific and talented author. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
‘In the Dark Places’ is the first book in the new ‘Vincent Swann’ series by Helen H Durrant.
He came home to escape his past—now it’s back to haunt him.
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep down his spine. Having returned home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t afford to trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life—he took a child.
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the unmistakable calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars. Whether he caught the wrong man or is dealing with a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child.
In the Dark Places is a well-written police procedural that launches a brand-new series, and what a promising start it is! DI Vincent Swann is a really interesting lead character. He has plenty of depth and personal baggage that makes him intriguing, and I can already see a lot of potential for him and the rest of the team to grow as the series develops.
The central mystery kept me thoroughly hooked from start to finish. The urgency of the missing child gives the story a brilliant sense of momentum, and the plot delivers some great, clever twists along the way that kept me guessing.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable, gripping read. It’s a wonderfully promising start to a new series, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where Helen H. Durrant takes DI Vincent Swann next! A solid four stars from me.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
He came home to escape his past—now it’s back to haunt him.
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep down his spine. Having returned home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t afford to trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life—he took a child.
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the unmistakable calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars. Whether he caught the wrong man or is dealing with a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child.
In the Dark Places is a well-written police procedural that launches a brand-new series, and what a promising start it is! DI Vincent Swann is a really interesting lead character. He has plenty of depth and personal baggage that makes him intriguing, and I can already see a lot of potential for him and the rest of the team to grow as the series develops.
The central mystery kept me thoroughly hooked from start to finish. The urgency of the missing child gives the story a brilliant sense of momentum, and the plot delivers some great, clever twists along the way that kept me guessing.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable, gripping read. It’s a wonderfully promising start to a new series, and I’m really looking forward to seeing where Helen H. Durrant takes DI Vincent Swann next! A solid four stars from me.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There’s something deliciously atmospheric about In the Dark Places—the kind of thriller that feels damp with rain and heavy with memory, as though the city itself is exhaling secrets. Helen H. Durrant leans into that mood from the first page, and the result is a story that’s both tightly paced and quietly unsettling.
This instalment follows DI Vincent Swann, returning to Manchester with the brittle hope of starting over. But the moment he kneels beside the murdered young woman—her eyes fixed on the skyline he once called home—the book tilts into darker territory. The pram tracks in the mud are a gut‑punch; the missing child becomes the heartbeat of the narrative, pulsing through every chapter with a sense of urgency that never lets up.
What makes the story so gripping is the way Swann himself becomes a fault line. He’s polished on the surface, crisp suit and careful composure, but beneath that is a man frayed by past choices. The burner phone he hesitates to use, the pink ribbon left like a whisper from a nightmare he thought he’d buried—these details give the book its emotional weight. You feel the city closing in on him, not just as a setting but as a reckoning.
Durrant’s strength lies in her ability to make procedural tension feel personal. The investigation is sharp, the stakes high, but it’s Swann’s internal battle—between duty, fear, and the ghosts he can’t outrun—that makes the pages turn themselves. The possibility of a copycat, or worse, a mistake that cost the wrong man his freedom, adds a clever thread of doubt that keeps the reader leaning forward.
Fast, atmospheric, and satisfyingly twisty, In the Dark Places is one of those thrillers you inhale in a single sitting. Fans of Angela Marsons and Helen Fields will feel right at home, but Swann’s particular brand of haunted determination gives this book its own distinct pull. A gripping, shadow‑soaked read that lingers after you close it.
With thanks to Helen Durrant, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
This instalment follows DI Vincent Swann, returning to Manchester with the brittle hope of starting over. But the moment he kneels beside the murdered young woman—her eyes fixed on the skyline he once called home—the book tilts into darker territory. The pram tracks in the mud are a gut‑punch; the missing child becomes the heartbeat of the narrative, pulsing through every chapter with a sense of urgency that never lets up.
What makes the story so gripping is the way Swann himself becomes a fault line. He’s polished on the surface, crisp suit and careful composure, but beneath that is a man frayed by past choices. The burner phone he hesitates to use, the pink ribbon left like a whisper from a nightmare he thought he’d buried—these details give the book its emotional weight. You feel the city closing in on him, not just as a setting but as a reckoning.
Durrant’s strength lies in her ability to make procedural tension feel personal. The investigation is sharp, the stakes high, but it’s Swann’s internal battle—between duty, fear, and the ghosts he can’t outrun—that makes the pages turn themselves. The possibility of a copycat, or worse, a mistake that cost the wrong man his freedom, adds a clever thread of doubt that keeps the reader leaning forward.
Fast, atmospheric, and satisfyingly twisty, In the Dark Places is one of those thrillers you inhale in a single sitting. Fans of Angela Marsons and Helen Fields will feel right at home, but Swann’s particular brand of haunted determination gives this book its own distinct pull. A gripping, shadow‑soaked read that lingers after you close it.
With thanks to Helen Durrant, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
So, this is book #1 in a new series that features DI Vincent Swann.
He is new to the area (according to his team), but not really. He kind of... grew up here. And still knows a lot of people... whether good or bad.
But, he has actually come back here to escape, as his last assignment almost took his life. He's really hoping to never have a repeat. And the last killer that he dealt with? Well, he was awful too!
So what Vincent NEVER expects is that he will find the exact same calling card, here, in a brand new place! On a brand new case!
His team seems huge, and that usually turns me off as it's hard to keep track of everyone, but this one was fine... and I didn't seem to have an issue.
And, most of the team really like him. It doesn't hurt of course that he is handsome and spiffily dressed! Except of course for Kat. She is up for the exact same promotion that Vincent is going for! But only one of them can get it!
As they are all looking for this killer, some odd things occur. And no one seems to be putting any of the pieces together... until it's just too late!
A little girl is missing, then one of their own... and then... one of Vincent's own family!
This is a nail biter to say the least, and I am looking forward to future books from this gifted author!
4 beautiful, bright, enthusiastic, stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#InTheDarkPlaces (Detective Vincent Swann, #1) written by @HelenHDurrant and narrated beautifully by @OrlandoWells.
It has not been released yet, but look 👀 for it soon! Release date is August 17, 2026!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @BookoutureAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!
And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷
He is new to the area (according to his team), but not really. He kind of... grew up here. And still knows a lot of people... whether good or bad.
But, he has actually come back here to escape, as his last assignment almost took his life. He's really hoping to never have a repeat. And the last killer that he dealt with? Well, he was awful too!
So what Vincent NEVER expects is that he will find the exact same calling card, here, in a brand new place! On a brand new case!
His team seems huge, and that usually turns me off as it's hard to keep track of everyone, but this one was fine... and I didn't seem to have an issue.
And, most of the team really like him. It doesn't hurt of course that he is handsome and spiffily dressed! Except of course for Kat. She is up for the exact same promotion that Vincent is going for! But only one of them can get it!
As they are all looking for this killer, some odd things occur. And no one seems to be putting any of the pieces together... until it's just too late!
A little girl is missing, then one of their own... and then... one of Vincent's own family!
This is a nail biter to say the least, and I am looking forward to future books from this gifted author!
4 beautiful, bright, enthusiastic, stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#InTheDarkPlaces (Detective Vincent Swann, #1) written by @HelenHDurrant and narrated beautifully by @OrlandoWells.
It has not been released yet, but look 👀 for it soon! Release date is August 17, 2026!
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and @BookoutureAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!!
And as always, thanks for reading along with me! 📚⭐️📖🩷
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A straightforward, plot-driven British procedural.
Detective Inspector Vincent Swann transfers to a new police unit in Manchester. His first major assignment with the team begins with the discovery of a murdered young woman in a skip. She has been beaten so badly that her identity is a mystery. In addition, pram tracks nearby indicate that a child may have been on the scene. Once the team knows this woman's name, they are faced with some real issues as she was the wife of one of the two main gangsters in town and they have to determine if this incident was retaliation or the start of a war between the Pikes and the Fishers. Instead, they find that there is someone else involved and other dynamics at work.
This was a well written and complicated homicide procedural with lots of red herrings and suspects. The story follows standard investigative protocols, following forensic evidence, timeline reconstructions, and witness interviews without straying into dramatics. The characters, especially Vincent Swann and fellow DI Kat Jardine (both vying for promotion within the unit), were well developed and quite interesting. Opposites in many ways, Vincent private and reserved as well as antisocial, and Kat, who is much more outgoing and definitely equal to the tasks, find their way as they navigate the twists and turns the case takes. The pace was steady and maintains a grounded focus as they work.
I was able to listen to the audio book while also following along in the e-book ARC, both provided by the publisher. The narrator, Orlando Wells, did a fine job of voicing all the characters though this definitely would have benefited with a female actor to take on the roles of those women characters. His voice matched the pacing and was appropriately dramatic. This created a nice immersive reading experience that I recommend.
Detective Inspector Vincent Swann transfers to a new police unit in Manchester. His first major assignment with the team begins with the discovery of a murdered young woman in a skip. She has been beaten so badly that her identity is a mystery. In addition, pram tracks nearby indicate that a child may have been on the scene. Once the team knows this woman's name, they are faced with some real issues as she was the wife of one of the two main gangsters in town and they have to determine if this incident was retaliation or the start of a war between the Pikes and the Fishers. Instead, they find that there is someone else involved and other dynamics at work.
This was a well written and complicated homicide procedural with lots of red herrings and suspects. The story follows standard investigative protocols, following forensic evidence, timeline reconstructions, and witness interviews without straying into dramatics. The characters, especially Vincent Swann and fellow DI Kat Jardine (both vying for promotion within the unit), were well developed and quite interesting. Opposites in many ways, Vincent private and reserved as well as antisocial, and Kat, who is much more outgoing and definitely equal to the tasks, find their way as they navigate the twists and turns the case takes. The pace was steady and maintains a grounded focus as they work.
I was able to listen to the audio book while also following along in the e-book ARC, both provided by the publisher. The narrator, Orlando Wells, did a fine job of voicing all the characters though this definitely would have benefited with a female actor to take on the roles of those women characters. His voice matched the pacing and was appropriately dramatic. This created a nice immersive reading experience that I recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ALC of In the Dark Places by Helen H. Durrant
He came home to escape his past. Now it’s back to haunt him.
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep his spine. Home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life. He took a child…
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no-one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars, and whether he caught the wrong man or it’s a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child…
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book which kept things back as well as giving you snippets of the past to create the full picture. I was intrigued by Vincent Swann and from the start wanted to know more.
The banter between Vincent and Kat was also quite comical lol.
Orlando Wells was a great narrator and in my head is now the voice of Vincent Swann. His other voices were also good as he wasn't overacting them which some people can do especially when they are voicing a character of the opposite sex.
This was a twisty thriller that kept me hooked until the end and I would recommend it.
He came home to escape his past. Now it’s back to haunt him.
Crouched over the body of a young woman in the mud, her glassy eyes reflecting the glowing Manchester skyline, DI Vincent Swann feels a familiar chill creep his spine. Home after his last case almost cost him his life, he knows he can’t trouble the waters with his new team. But the pram tracks leading away from the scene mean a killer didn’t just take a life. He took a child…
In his crisp suit, Swann looks like an outsider, but no-one knows the city’s darkest corners like he does. Toying with the burner phone in his pocket, his instincts tell him not to make the call, but every second counts.
Then he sees the pale pink ribbon carefully placed on the ground not far from the body, and the city walls close in on him. It’s the calling card of the killer he sacrificed everything to put behind bars, and whether he caught the wrong man or it’s a copycat, Swann knows that only unthinkable danger lies between him and saving that missing child…
I really enjoyed the pacing of this book which kept things back as well as giving you snippets of the past to create the full picture. I was intrigued by Vincent Swann and from the start wanted to know more.
The banter between Vincent and Kat was also quite comical lol.
Orlando Wells was a great narrator and in my head is now the voice of Vincent Swann. His other voices were also good as he wasn't overacting them which some people can do especially when they are voicing a character of the opposite sex.
This was a twisty thriller that kept me hooked until the end and I would recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
IN IN DARK PLACES is the first book in the new Detective Vincent Swann series by best-selling author Helen H Durrant. Having enjoyed her previous books in other series, I was looking forward to starting this new series.
In this new series, DI Vincent Swann, returns to Manchester with the hope of starting over…but it seems his past is there to haunt him.
The story begins with DI Vincent Swanand DI Kat Jardine being called to the murder scene of a young woman and the disappearance of her baby, with a pink ribbon left at the scene, he fears the return of a killer from his past. The victim had been dumped on the estate in a skip. With the amount of rotting garbage, any evidence would have been seriously compromised. She could have been involved with the drug-dealing gangs that operate in this part of Manchester.
There was ongoing rivalry between Kat and Vincent as both were going for the promotion of the DCI vacant position. Vincent told his colleague, Kat that they must work together for the better of the team and get them back on track.
The team members of the Major Crime Unit included:
DI Vincent Swann
DI Kat Jardine
DC Jake Hope
DC Lola Farrell
DC Hugo Adams
Vincent makes for an interesting lead character, as he is intelligent and relates well to the team. Kat calls him “posh boy” as he dresses rich, but grew up on the Fairfield Estate.
Then another body, a woman also shows up in the skip.
This was a well-written totally gripping police procedural from bestselling author Helen H. Durrant. I was hooked from start to finish, as the numerous twists had me guessing all along. Looking forward to following the series.
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
Expected publication August 17, 2026
In this new series, DI Vincent Swann, returns to Manchester with the hope of starting over…but it seems his past is there to haunt him.
The story begins with DI Vincent Swanand DI Kat Jardine being called to the murder scene of a young woman and the disappearance of her baby, with a pink ribbon left at the scene, he fears the return of a killer from his past. The victim had been dumped on the estate in a skip. With the amount of rotting garbage, any evidence would have been seriously compromised. She could have been involved with the drug-dealing gangs that operate in this part of Manchester.
There was ongoing rivalry between Kat and Vincent as both were going for the promotion of the DCI vacant position. Vincent told his colleague, Kat that they must work together for the better of the team and get them back on track.
The team members of the Major Crime Unit included:
DI Vincent Swann
DI Kat Jardine
DC Jake Hope
DC Lola Farrell
DC Hugo Adams
Vincent makes for an interesting lead character, as he is intelligent and relates well to the team. Kat calls him “posh boy” as he dresses rich, but grew up on the Fairfield Estate.
Then another body, a woman also shows up in the skip.
This was a well-written totally gripping police procedural from bestselling author Helen H. Durrant. I was hooked from start to finish, as the numerous twists had me guessing all along. Looking forward to following the series.
Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Netgalley for my digital copy.
Expected publication August 17, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is my third read by this author but this was slightly different from my first two reads in that it's also the first book in a new series featuring Detective Vincent Swann.
I love a good detective series and especially one that I join from the very beginning and therefore get the full introduction to both Vincent himself and of course the rest of the team - whilst also trying to solve a pretty tough case.
I loved that Vincent had an interesting backstory that slowly emerges.
At first we just see him taking private calls away from prying ears, but soon, the others notice other signs that maybe Vincent is connected in ways that could be frowned upon.
I'm having to be careful what I say, because I really don't want to give any spoilers, but this was a pretty complex case that involved multiple deaths and things get decidedly more dangerous when the victim is identified and it seems that things lie a little too close to home for Vincent.
I loved this side of the storyline which I can see potential for throughout the series.
The team worked well together, but there's a bit of competition going on for the next promotion which may cause more issues in book 2?
This was well written and well paced throughout - I couldn't wait to find out just what was going on.
I had my own theories along the way, but although I worked out some of the twists, I have a feeling that they were meant to be easy to work out, just to throw us off the scent of the real big ones heading our way later on.
Another great read and I'll definitely be heading back to see the team work through another case in the next book soon.
I love a good detective series and especially one that I join from the very beginning and therefore get the full introduction to both Vincent himself and of course the rest of the team - whilst also trying to solve a pretty tough case.
I loved that Vincent had an interesting backstory that slowly emerges.
At first we just see him taking private calls away from prying ears, but soon, the others notice other signs that maybe Vincent is connected in ways that could be frowned upon.
I'm having to be careful what I say, because I really don't want to give any spoilers, but this was a pretty complex case that involved multiple deaths and things get decidedly more dangerous when the victim is identified and it seems that things lie a little too close to home for Vincent.
I loved this side of the storyline which I can see potential for throughout the series.
The team worked well together, but there's a bit of competition going on for the next promotion which may cause more issues in book 2?
This was well written and well paced throughout - I couldn't wait to find out just what was going on.
I had my own theories along the way, but although I worked out some of the twists, I have a feeling that they were meant to be easy to work out, just to throw us off the scent of the real big ones heading our way later on.
Another great read and I'll definitely be heading back to see the team work through another case in the next book soon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What happens when a detective's new job forces him to confront the very streets that shaped him?
In the Dark Places is a tense, grim police procedural that is full of atmosphere and realism. It's the first book in a brand new series from brilliant author Helen H. Durrant.
DI Vincent Swann joins a new team in Manchester, only to find himself right back on the gritty estate where he grew up. His arrival is immediately marred by a horrifying discovery: a body found in an alleyway, dumped amid the rubbish. It's a gruesome start that sets the tone for everything to follow, and the case soon reveals a dark link to a past that continues to haunt Swann.
The friction between Swann and DI Kat Jardine fuels the story as both compete to fill the vacant DCI post. Both are capable and both are utterly convinced they're the best person for the job.
Swann is socially awkward and carries as much baggage as Manchester airport, making him an outsider to a squad whose loyalty firmly belongs to Kat. What makes this rivalry work so well is how relatable both characters are: Swann's discomfort and Kat's guardedness feel genuine rather than manufactured for drama.
The team forms the true heart of the book, and watching Swann gradually earn their respect as he navigates the personal ties of his old neighbourhood is nothing short of riveting. Impetuous but brave Lola stole a place in my heart.
The sharp professional rivalry and an unexpected final reveal make this an absolute page turner. A perfect read for fans of old school gritty police procedurals. I can't wait for the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
In the Dark Places is a tense, grim police procedural that is full of atmosphere and realism. It's the first book in a brand new series from brilliant author Helen H. Durrant.
DI Vincent Swann joins a new team in Manchester, only to find himself right back on the gritty estate where he grew up. His arrival is immediately marred by a horrifying discovery: a body found in an alleyway, dumped amid the rubbish. It's a gruesome start that sets the tone for everything to follow, and the case soon reveals a dark link to a past that continues to haunt Swann.
The friction between Swann and DI Kat Jardine fuels the story as both compete to fill the vacant DCI post. Both are capable and both are utterly convinced they're the best person for the job.
Swann is socially awkward and carries as much baggage as Manchester airport, making him an outsider to a squad whose loyalty firmly belongs to Kat. What makes this rivalry work so well is how relatable both characters are: Swann's discomfort and Kat's guardedness feel genuine rather than manufactured for drama.
The team forms the true heart of the book, and watching Swann gradually earn their respect as he navigates the personal ties of his old neighbourhood is nothing short of riveting. Impetuous but brave Lola stole a place in my heart.
The sharp professional rivalry and an unexpected final reveal make this an absolute page turner. A perfect read for fans of old school gritty police procedurals. I can't wait for the next one!
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for this read! Double cheers for this being my first audiobook.
This is such a gripping book, filled with plot twists. Just when you think you have it all figured out, there’s something else waiting around the corner.
The story follows DI Vincent Swann, who has just moved back to his hometown, partly because of a possible promotion. However, he isn’t the only one being considered for the position. Another detective, Kat, has also put in the work and is a strong contender for the same promotion. Together, they work to solve the murder of a woman, find a missing child, and navigate the impending war between two drug lords in the territory.
We get to see the complications of Vincent’s personal and professional life unfold, and although some of them could be career-changing, he manages to intelligently work his way through them while maintaining his relationship with Kat, who spends a good chunk of the story doubting him.
One thing I particularly liked was how uncertain the mystery remained for most of the book. We weren’t completely sure who was guilty until much later. The author gave us just enough clues to keep us guessing without giving too much away.
The book is medium-paced and more plot-driven, which worked well for the story. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of good mysteries. If you enjoyed And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie or books by Lisa Jewell, I think you’ll enjoy this one too.
I’m most certainly going to be reading The Funeral next.
A solid 4 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is such a gripping book, filled with plot twists. Just when you think you have it all figured out, there’s something else waiting around the corner.
The story follows DI Vincent Swann, who has just moved back to his hometown, partly because of a possible promotion. However, he isn’t the only one being considered for the position. Another detective, Kat, has also put in the work and is a strong contender for the same promotion. Together, they work to solve the murder of a woman, find a missing child, and navigate the impending war between two drug lords in the territory.
We get to see the complications of Vincent’s personal and professional life unfold, and although some of them could be career-changing, he manages to intelligently work his way through them while maintaining his relationship with Kat, who spends a good chunk of the story doubting him.
One thing I particularly liked was how uncertain the mystery remained for most of the book. We weren’t completely sure who was guilty until much later. The author gave us just enough clues to keep us guessing without giving too much away.
The book is medium-paced and more plot-driven, which worked well for the story. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of good mysteries. If you enjoyed And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie or books by Lisa Jewell, I think you’ll enjoy this one too.
I’m most certainly going to be reading The Funeral next.
A solid 4 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 7, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this advance copy.
Having read several of Helen H. Durrant’s books, I had high expectations, and In the Dark Places more than delivered. This is an outstanding start to the DI Vincent Swann series and one I listened to at every opportunity.
The story opens with the murder of a young woman and the disappearance of her baby, but when Vincent discovers a pale pink ribbon left at the scene, he fears the return of a killer from his past. I loved the way the investigation balanced the urgency of finding the missing child with Swann’s own personal history, leaving you constantly questioning whether they were dealing with a copycat or something far more disturbing.
Vincent is an excellent lead. He’s intelligent, instinctive and carrying the weight of decisions made in an earlier case, which adds real depth to his character. His relationship with his new team develops naturally, and I quickly became invested in them all.
The pacing is relentless, with short chapters, well-timed twists and just enough misdirection to keep me guessing. The narration was excellent too, capturing both the tension of the investigation and the emotional moments without ever overplaying them.
A gripping police procedural with believable characters, a genuinely tense investigation and an ending that left me eager for the next book in the series. Five stars from me.
Having read several of Helen H. Durrant’s books, I had high expectations, and In the Dark Places more than delivered. This is an outstanding start to the DI Vincent Swann series and one I listened to at every opportunity.
The story opens with the murder of a young woman and the disappearance of her baby, but when Vincent discovers a pale pink ribbon left at the scene, he fears the return of a killer from his past. I loved the way the investigation balanced the urgency of finding the missing child with Swann’s own personal history, leaving you constantly questioning whether they were dealing with a copycat or something far more disturbing.
Vincent is an excellent lead. He’s intelligent, instinctive and carrying the weight of decisions made in an earlier case, which adds real depth to his character. His relationship with his new team develops naturally, and I quickly became invested in them all.
The pacing is relentless, with short chapters, well-timed twists and just enough misdirection to keep me guessing. The narration was excellent too, capturing both the tension of the investigation and the emotional moments without ever overplaying them.
A gripping police procedural with believable characters, a genuinely tense investigation and an ending that left me eager for the next book in the series. Five stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Detective Vincent Swann #1
In the Dark Places in Helen H. Durrant
Narration by Orlando Wells
DI Vincent Swann might seem like the new guy in town but that won't be the case, because he's been here before. DI Kat Jardine is not at all happy that Vincent is now working with her because that means she is in direct competition for the promotion that should have been hers. The two definitely get off on the wrong foot with each other and it doesn't help that Swann has no compunction to play social pals with anyone at his new work assignment. I really like the banter between Vincent and Kat when they do actually talk to each other but Kat is on watch for any slight to her being any less than Vincent's equal. After all, she's been there longer, she was in line for the promotion, and her team knows her and she knows them. Sadly, several of Kat's team are in awe of Vincent thanks to his good looks, spiffy clothing, and his standoffish behavior. He also has a reputation for stuffiness, abhorrence of tech, and more, but those things might not be true. In the recent past Vincent's former team was responsible the conviction of a serial killer but Vincent's not happy with that outcome so doesn't want to discuss the matter.
Now, at this new work location (but old to Vincent in other ways), a woman's body has been found and there seems to be a calling card that harks back to Vincent's solved case. Also, the two rival gang leaders in the area may be involved in this murder and Vincent is very close to at least one of the gangs for reasons he'd like to keep secret. Kat doesn't appreciate the secrecy and their relationship just gets more acrimonious. There is so much more to Vincent than anyone would guess and he'd like to keep them guessing. But Kat and Vincent must work together because there could be a small child missing and that child might not have long to live.
I enjoyed the narration by Orlando Wells, by the end of the book I felt like his voice was the voice of Vincent. He does well with the other voicing too and that is partly because he didn't try too hard to over act the voices. It seems there will be another book after this one and I'm glad to know that already because we get hints of more trouble to come for Vincent and company in the future.
Publication August 17, 2026
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC
In the Dark Places in Helen H. Durrant
Narration by Orlando Wells
DI Vincent Swann might seem like the new guy in town but that won't be the case, because he's been here before. DI Kat Jardine is not at all happy that Vincent is now working with her because that means she is in direct competition for the promotion that should have been hers. The two definitely get off on the wrong foot with each other and it doesn't help that Swann has no compunction to play social pals with anyone at his new work assignment. I really like the banter between Vincent and Kat when they do actually talk to each other but Kat is on watch for any slight to her being any less than Vincent's equal. After all, she's been there longer, she was in line for the promotion, and her team knows her and she knows them. Sadly, several of Kat's team are in awe of Vincent thanks to his good looks, spiffy clothing, and his standoffish behavior. He also has a reputation for stuffiness, abhorrence of tech, and more, but those things might not be true. In the recent past Vincent's former team was responsible the conviction of a serial killer but Vincent's not happy with that outcome so doesn't want to discuss the matter.
Now, at this new work location (but old to Vincent in other ways), a woman's body has been found and there seems to be a calling card that harks back to Vincent's solved case. Also, the two rival gang leaders in the area may be involved in this murder and Vincent is very close to at least one of the gangs for reasons he'd like to keep secret. Kat doesn't appreciate the secrecy and their relationship just gets more acrimonious. There is so much more to Vincent than anyone would guess and he'd like to keep them guessing. But Kat and Vincent must work together because there could be a small child missing and that child might not have long to live.
I enjoyed the narration by Orlando Wells, by the end of the book I felt like his voice was the voice of Vincent. He does well with the other voicing too and that is partly because he didn't try too hard to over act the voices. It seems there will be another book after this one and I'm glad to know that already because we get hints of more trouble to come for Vincent and company in the future.
Publication August 17, 2026
Thank you to Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for this ARC
August 17, 2026
Helen is a totally new author to me, but I’m so pleased I gave this book a go, just on the cover and title if I’m honest. Di Swann is an odd character and very difficult for his colleagues to get to know. This is partially because of his complex personal life, but in my opinion, mainly because he comes across as a very private person that is uncomfortable in crowds. I’m sure this will become clearer as the series goes on though. I like how Swann starts this new investigation in direct competition with a colleague for a promotion but as the investigation proceeds and he has to share more about his personal life, they slowly build a comradery if not quite a friendship, yet. I’m sure this will develop over the series if the team continue to work together.
Swann’s personal ties to this investigation and his history with some of the people integral to the investigation keep you gripped as each little piece of the puzzle is gradually uncovered. The are so many surprising twists throughout the story that it’s no surprise you don’t know who the guilty party is until it’s finally unveiled at the end.
I like how the author ended this book, not in a cliff hanger but leaving it clearly open for further books to come in this series. Personally, I can’t wait for book 2.
Thank you to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for allowing me to listen to an ALC of this amazing thriller.
This is a review of the audiobook.
Swann’s personal ties to this investigation and his history with some of the people integral to the investigation keep you gripped as each little piece of the puzzle is gradually uncovered. The are so many surprising twists throughout the story that it’s no surprise you don’t know who the guilty party is until it’s finally unveiled at the end.
I like how the author ended this book, not in a cliff hanger but leaving it clearly open for further books to come in this series. Personally, I can’t wait for book 2.
Thank you to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for allowing me to listen to an ALC of this amazing thriller.
This is a review of the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*4.5 stars*
Detective Vincent Swann has more secrets than your average detective, and he’s still haunted by a previous case, where he wasn’t convinced by the outcome. The case almost cost him his life.
But when it comes to criminals, he personally knows some very unsavoury characters, and is familiar with all the seedy and dangerous hidden corners of Manchester where they lurk.
He’s recently moved back to his home turf, but is the new DI in an already established team.
That’s never a good thing, made even worse by the fact that there’s already a DI in place - Kat Jardine, with whom he’ll be competing for the position of DCI, so their relationship obviously gets off to a bad start.
Today they’re investigating the brutal murder of a young woman. Two local crime bosses come under scrutiny, but this isn’t the cut and dried job that it first appeared to be.
“In the Dark Places” is a real page turner, with some interesting characters and great twists. The tension became unbearable at times, due to the quality of the writing, making me turn the pages ever faster. Very enjoyable, and a great start to this new series.
*My thanks to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Detective Vincent Swann has more secrets than your average detective, and he’s still haunted by a previous case, where he wasn’t convinced by the outcome. The case almost cost him his life.
But when it comes to criminals, he personally knows some very unsavoury characters, and is familiar with all the seedy and dangerous hidden corners of Manchester where they lurk.
He’s recently moved back to his home turf, but is the new DI in an already established team.
That’s never a good thing, made even worse by the fact that there’s already a DI in place - Kat Jardine, with whom he’ll be competing for the position of DCI, so their relationship obviously gets off to a bad start.
Today they’re investigating the brutal murder of a young woman. Two local crime bosses come under scrutiny, but this isn’t the cut and dried job that it first appeared to be.
“In the Dark Places” is a real page turner, with some interesting characters and great twists. The tension became unbearable at times, due to the quality of the writing, making me turn the pages ever faster. Very enjoyable, and a great start to this new series.
*My thanks to Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Book 1 of Helen H. Durrant’s new Detective Vincent Swann series, In the Dark Places, is an amazing combination of police procedural and psychological thriller that kept me from putting it down once I started reading it. Orlando Wells does an amazing job narrating the audio book, clearly creating different voices for each character and making the listening so addictive and engaging.
In this novel, we find DI Vincent Swann joining the team in Manchester and conduction the investigation into a gruesome murder with his colleague DI Kat Jardine and their underestimated hard working support crew. We slowly peel back the onion that is DI Swann throughout the book to realize that although he comes off posh and entitled, he is deeply rooted to the local community, despite it being set in a major metropolitan area, and has depth and integrity that no one expected.
This book was able to walk the fine line between psychological thriller and being a tale of horror, while also setting the stage for a fantastic new series with complex characters that I want to know more about. I can’t wait for the next edition in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for this amazing audio ARC!!
In this novel, we find DI Vincent Swann joining the team in Manchester and conduction the investigation into a gruesome murder with his colleague DI Kat Jardine and their underestimated hard working support crew. We slowly peel back the onion that is DI Swann throughout the book to realize that although he comes off posh and entitled, he is deeply rooted to the local community, despite it being set in a major metropolitan area, and has depth and integrity that no one expected.
This book was able to walk the fine line between psychological thriller and being a tale of horror, while also setting the stage for a fantastic new series with complex characters that I want to know more about. I can’t wait for the next edition in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for this amazing audio ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Title: In the Dark Places
Series: Detective Vincent Swann Book #1
Author: Helen H. Durrant
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Orlando Wells
Publisher: Bookouture Audio
Genre: Police Procedure
Audiobook Pub Date: August 17, 2026
My Rating: 3 Stars
Pages: 284
Detective Vincent Swann relocates from a rural community to Manchester with its big-city problems. Yet he's no stranger to the city, he is back home- his last case nearly cost him his life. He grew up in this area, in fact went to school with many of them. He also knows not everyone is pleased that he is back, so he has to be careful about fitting in with his new team!
Another team's Detective Kat Jardine is not at all happy that Swann is now working with her because that means she is in direct competition for the promotion that should be hers.
But first, they must work together to find a killer and a missing child before it's too late.
There's a lot of tension and action in this story. I had this listed as a Psychological thriller ~ which is my favorite genre however it was more police procedure.
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 17, 2026.
Series: Detective Vincent Swann Book #1
Author: Helen H. Durrant
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Orlando Wells
Publisher: Bookouture Audio
Genre: Police Procedure
Audiobook Pub Date: August 17, 2026
My Rating: 3 Stars
Pages: 284
Detective Vincent Swann relocates from a rural community to Manchester with its big-city problems. Yet he's no stranger to the city, he is back home- his last case nearly cost him his life. He grew up in this area, in fact went to school with many of them. He also knows not everyone is pleased that he is back, so he has to be careful about fitting in with his new team!
Another team's Detective Kat Jardine is not at all happy that Swann is now working with her because that means she is in direct competition for the promotion that should be hers.
But first, they must work together to find a killer and a missing child before it's too late.
There's a lot of tension and action in this story. I had this listed as a Psychological thriller ~ which is my favorite genre however it was more police procedure.
Want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 17, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've only read a few of this authors books and really enjoyed In the Dark Places which introduces a new character and series and in my opinion gets off to a great start. I was pulled into the story right away and the author held my interest and attention to the last page. I really like DI Swann who has a complicated history to say the least. He moves to Manchester and has to work alongside another DI and his first case is the murder of a member of a local crime family. The authors writing is really good and very engaging and the story flows well. The plot line is intricately thought out, goes off in unexpected ways and certainly kept me guessing as to who the murderer was. The story is fast paced and I could feel the frustrations and desperation of Swann and the team as they try to solve the case. The authors great writing and well executed plot line makes this a very moreish read that I kept picking up whenever I could to continue reading. The ending sets up the next book nicely and I'll definitely want to read it.
Overall a very good police procedural that I would recommend.
4 stars
Overall a very good police procedural that I would recommend.
4 stars
August 17, 2026
I was excited to pick up a new police procedural series. Although I typically pick up books based around women in law enforcement, it’s always nice to get the male perspective. Vincent is new in town, and the force he’s joining is split between wanting to let him in and not wanting him there.
His first case with his new squad is a personal one for him. His past is connected to the organized crime in the area, and it plays a big part in the murder cases he’s investigating. I liked seeing how he balanced the good and the bad parts of the crime family and how they aren’t necessarily all bad.
I’m hoping we’re going to get more of Vincent’s backstory and his connections to the men that he worked with in his past. I can’t wait to see more of how things unfold wth Kat and the rest of his squad.
I listened to this one in less than a day. It was easy to fly through. Orlando Wells’ narration is well done. I think I would have liked a female voice for Kat, but it didn’t lower my rating at all.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copies of this book.
His first case with his new squad is a personal one for him. His past is connected to the organized crime in the area, and it plays a big part in the murder cases he’s investigating. I liked seeing how he balanced the good and the bad parts of the crime family and how they aren’t necessarily all bad.
I’m hoping we’re going to get more of Vincent’s backstory and his connections to the men that he worked with in his past. I can’t wait to see more of how things unfold wth Kat and the rest of his squad.
I listened to this one in less than a day. It was easy to fly through. Orlando Wells’ narration is well done. I think I would have liked a female voice for Kat, but it didn’t lower my rating at all.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copies of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the Dark Places by Helen H. Durrant is an atmospheric thriller that follows DI Vincent Swann, a detective haunted by his past, as he investigates the chilling murder of a young woman. The author crafts a sense of urgency and tension as Swann grapples with personal demons while trying to solve a case that is more than just a murder. I felt the characters were well-developed, with Swann standing out as a complex and relatable protagonist. His struggles with the past and his determination to protect the innocent add emotional weight to the novel. I liked all the characters, especially Lola. The author's writing style captures the darkness of the city while also illuminating its hidden corners.
Overall, In the Dark Places is a page-turner that had great twists, a surprise ending, and a surprise culprit. I am looking forward to more in this new series. I would recommend this book.
#IntheDarkPlaces #NetGalley @bookouture
Overall, In the Dark Places is a page-turner that had great twists, a surprise ending, and a surprise culprit. I am looking forward to more in this new series. I would recommend this book.
#IntheDarkPlaces #NetGalley @bookouture
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having read and enjoyed all of the authors Calladine and Bayliss books, I was keen to get my hands on this, which the first in a brand-new series. As I expected, In the Dark Places is a well-written police procedural, the characters are well-developed and interesting, especially DI Vincent Swann, who has a somewhat intriguing past, which I am sure we will get to read more about as the series progresses. The plotline is gripping, the murders suitably gruesome, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader on the backfoot.
I will admit that I grew weary of the power struggle between DI Swann and his colleague DI Kat Jardine, and I hope it isn’t going to be drawn out over a number of books – team infighting in this type of book is so common I find it tiresome. That said, I very much enjoyed the overall tale and will definitely be on the lookout for the next instalment.
I will admit that I grew weary of the power struggle between DI Swann and his colleague DI Kat Jardine, and I hope it isn’t going to be drawn out over a number of books – team infighting in this type of book is so common I find it tiresome. That said, I very much enjoyed the overall tale and will definitely be on the lookout for the next instalment.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First book in a new series and it takes First place 🥇. Looking forward to reading more in this Detective Vincent Swann series.
In The Dark Placez is the perfect mixture of suspense and tension. The characters felt believable. Their past intermingled with the present-day. Making them more interesting. The story has many twists and turns. . There were definitely a few moments that caught me off guard, which I always appreciate in a good thriller. Overall, this was an entertaining and engaging read that kept me guessing. Definitely one I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys a good crime mystery!
Orlando Wells is a fantastic narrator. His voice is smooth, natural, and easy to listen to, and he does a great job bringing the characters and story to life.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.. Mark your calendars for the expected release date August 17th.
#Netgalley #Inthedarkplaces
In The Dark Placez is the perfect mixture of suspense and tension. The characters felt believable. Their past intermingled with the present-day. Making them more interesting. The story has many twists and turns. . There were definitely a few moments that caught me off guard, which I always appreciate in a good thriller. Overall, this was an entertaining and engaging read that kept me guessing. Definitely one I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys a good crime mystery!
Orlando Wells is a fantastic narrator. His voice is smooth, natural, and easy to listen to, and he does a great job bringing the characters and story to life.
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.. Mark your calendars for the expected release date August 17th.
#Netgalley #Inthedarkplaces
August 17, 2026
In the Dark Places by Helen H. Durrant
This was SO good and I am officially invested in Detective Vincent Swan and his team.
The characters really made this one for me. They’re complex, their lives intertwine in ways I loved watching unfold, and there’s almost no trust within the team in the beginning. By the end, they’ve been through enough together that they would practically die for one another… and almost do.
The Manchester setting gave the story such a great atmosphere, while the case itself was intense and kept me completely locked into the investigation. There was always something pulling me forward, and I genuinely didn’t want to stop listening.
Orlando Wells’ narration was the cherry on top. He elevated an already fantastic story and had me hanging on every word.
I’m so glad this is the beginning of a new series because I cannot wait to get back into this world.
Helen H. Durrant + Orlando Wells is a winning combination. 🔎🎧
This was SO good and I am officially invested in Detective Vincent Swan and his team.
The characters really made this one for me. They’re complex, their lives intertwine in ways I loved watching unfold, and there’s almost no trust within the team in the beginning. By the end, they’ve been through enough together that they would practically die for one another… and almost do.
The Manchester setting gave the story such a great atmosphere, while the case itself was intense and kept me completely locked into the investigation. There was always something pulling me forward, and I genuinely didn’t want to stop listening.
Orlando Wells’ narration was the cherry on top. He elevated an already fantastic story and had me hanging on every word.
I’m so glad this is the beginning of a new series because I cannot wait to get back into this world.
Helen H. Durrant + Orlando Wells is a winning combination. 🔎🎧
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have enjoyed reading Helen Durrant’s DI Greco and her Calladine and Bayliss books, so I was very pleased to see a new series. In the Dark Places is the first book in the DI Vincent Swann series and it kept me gripped from the beginning.
Swann moves back to his hometown after dealing with a very gruelling case. He’s a very secretive man, but it becomes clear that he has some personal links to one of the crime bosses in the area. As a body of a woman is discovered the pressure is on to find her missing child before it’s too late. But are there links to Swann’s past?
It’s a fast paced book with lots of twists and turns which kept me engrossed until the end. There’s some interesting characters in his team and I’m looking forward to seeing them being further developed in the next book. A great start to a new series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Swann moves back to his hometown after dealing with a very gruelling case. He’s a very secretive man, but it becomes clear that he has some personal links to one of the crime bosses in the area. As a body of a woman is discovered the pressure is on to find her missing child before it’s too late. But are there links to Swann’s past?
It’s a fast paced book with lots of twists and turns which kept me engrossed until the end. There’s some interesting characters in his team and I’m looking forward to seeing them being further developed in the next book. A great start to a new series.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.75 stars
This was my first book by Helen H. Durrant, and I really enjoyed it. I liked the story, the characters and her writing style, which is straightforward, fast moving and very easy to get into. I also loved the Manchester setting, which gave the book a strong atmosphere.
The only part that didn’t really work for me was the competition between Swann and Jardine for the DCI position. I found that aspect a little tedious after a while, but that’s very much personal preference and it didn’t detract much from the rest of the book.
I listened to the audiobook and thought Orlando Wells was an excellent fit. His narration suited the story and setting very well and made for an easy, engaging listen.
Overall, a very enjoyable crime thriller and an author I’d happily read again.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the advance listening copy.
This was my first book by Helen H. Durrant, and I really enjoyed it. I liked the story, the characters and her writing style, which is straightforward, fast moving and very easy to get into. I also loved the Manchester setting, which gave the book a strong atmosphere.
The only part that didn’t really work for me was the competition between Swann and Jardine for the DCI position. I found that aspect a little tedious after a while, but that’s very much personal preference and it didn’t detract much from the rest of the book.
I listened to the audiobook and thought Orlando Wells was an excellent fit. His narration suited the story and setting very well and made for an easy, engaging listen.
Overall, a very enjoyable crime thriller and an author I’d happily read again.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the advance listening copy.
August 17, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
This was my first book by Helen H. Durrant and also her first book in her new Defective Vincent Swann series.
It started off with a bang…a woman is brutally murdered and subsequently found in a dumpster. Grotesque details aside, the victim is completely unrecognizable. Who is she? And where is her baby?!
Vincent is recently returning home to a haunting past he’s attempting to forget and trying to adapt to working with a new team.
Unfortunately, he is forced to join forces with his career rival, Kat. Vincent is instantly haunted by his new case that has a familiar calling card. He’s also fighting for a promotion at the same time.
Will the pressure become too much, or will he solve this case and succeed with his career aspirations?
Being an audiobook, the mystery and story kept me listening raptly.
4 stars!
This was my first book by Helen H. Durrant and also her first book in her new Defective Vincent Swann series.
It started off with a bang…a woman is brutally murdered and subsequently found in a dumpster. Grotesque details aside, the victim is completely unrecognizable. Who is she? And where is her baby?!
Vincent is recently returning home to a haunting past he’s attempting to forget and trying to adapt to working with a new team.
Unfortunately, he is forced to join forces with his career rival, Kat. Vincent is instantly haunted by his new case that has a familiar calling card. He’s also fighting for a promotion at the same time.
Will the pressure become too much, or will he solve this case and succeed with his career aspirations?
Being an audiobook, the mystery and story kept me listening raptly.
4 stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A new DI arrives to an already established team where he must work with the current DI to solve the mystery of a body found in a skip. The two DIs are both competing for the same DCI job so things are cagey at first, before DI Swann starts to open up when his hand is forced by DI Jardine. All set against the backdrop of two local crime overlords who seemingly manage to exist alongside each other. DI Swann has strong connections to one of them too.
I found the plot a bit frustrating as it feeds in to so many stereotypes which I cannot really elaborate on without spoilers, but I'm sure the author would argue that they do reflect realities.
I think / hope that the series will get better as it develops and the characters become more settled.
I found the plot a bit frustrating as it feeds in to so many stereotypes which I cannot really elaborate on without spoilers, but I'm sure the author would argue that they do reflect realities.
I think / hope that the series will get better as it develops and the characters become more settled.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Good read with suspense, intrigue and some interesting sideline character stories.
DI Swann is new to the Manchester team and competing with a DI already in place there, for the position of chief inspector. When he is called to his first crime scene, the brutally murdered body of a young female and recognizes a piece of evidence similar to a previous case, supposedly solved, he immediately realizes this will be no easy solve.
Facing some low key hostility from team members who know he is vying for the chief title against one of their own squad members, Vincent goes about in his usual way working the case and working the clues against the former case,as well.
Fascinating blend of characters who are well defined and easy to follow.
Looking forward to the next edition.
DI Swann is new to the Manchester team and competing with a DI already in place there, for the position of chief inspector. When he is called to his first crime scene, the brutally murdered body of a young female and recognizes a piece of evidence similar to a previous case, supposedly solved, he immediately realizes this will be no easy solve.
Facing some low key hostility from team members who know he is vying for the chief title against one of their own squad members, Vincent goes about in his usual way working the case and working the clues against the former case,as well.
Fascinating blend of characters who are well defined and easy to follow.
Looking forward to the next edition.
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