What do you think?
Rate this book
DCI Liam Brodie #3
Silent Embers: A gripping Scottish crime thriller of murder, secrets and revenge, BRAND NEW for 2026
The next BRAND NEW gripping instalment in John Carson's DCI Liam Brodie series.
Some fires never truly go out.
They just wait for the right moment to burn again.
On a busy Halloween night in Fife, a woman is murdered in plain sight – her body left in a shallow grave and a theatrical dress left hanging above her - preserved, positioned and meant to be seen.
Five years earlier, a dress just like it was worn by a young actress named Nancy, who died in a devastating Bonfire Night fire that tore through a local theatre. DCI Liam Brodie knows the dress is a message… but for who?
His investigation soon leads him to the heavy blast doors of a nuclear bunker. Deep underground, where two broken men guard the memory of Nancy - the woman they lost. But they aren't the only ones with secrets…
While suspicion falls on those closest to the victim, the real killer is watching, waiting, and preparing his final act. The stage is set. The fuse is lit. In the countdown to Bonfire Night, Brodie must discover who is pulling the strings before the final curtain falls in blood.
Praise for John
'Excellent! Fast paced and hard hitting with a sharp edge of quick wit.' Bestselling thriller author Diane Saxon
'Broken Bones is a cracking start to a brand new series. Flawed characters, twists and turns galore and a brutal mystery that had me guessing until the end.' Bestselling crime author Wes Markin
'A twisty, tartan-clad cracker laced with dark humour.' Bestselling crime author Ross Greenwood
'Always a five star for John Carson. His books just keep getting better and better.' Reader Review
'Another great book from this highly recommend author. Hard to put down any of his books they keep you gripped from the beginning to the end.' Reader Review
'OUTSTANDING!' Reader Review
'A brilliant new series from one of my favourite authors!' Reader Review
'Lots of humour and normality as well as intrigue and right at the end, the final, and most stunning twist.' Reader Review
Some fires never truly go out.
They just wait for the right moment to burn again.
On a busy Halloween night in Fife, a woman is murdered in plain sight – her body left in a shallow grave and a theatrical dress left hanging above her - preserved, positioned and meant to be seen.
Five years earlier, a dress just like it was worn by a young actress named Nancy, who died in a devastating Bonfire Night fire that tore through a local theatre. DCI Liam Brodie knows the dress is a message… but for who?
His investigation soon leads him to the heavy blast doors of a nuclear bunker. Deep underground, where two broken men guard the memory of Nancy - the woman they lost. But they aren't the only ones with secrets…
While suspicion falls on those closest to the victim, the real killer is watching, waiting, and preparing his final act. The stage is set. The fuse is lit. In the countdown to Bonfire Night, Brodie must discover who is pulling the strings before the final curtain falls in blood.
Praise for John
'Excellent! Fast paced and hard hitting with a sharp edge of quick wit.' Bestselling thriller author Diane Saxon
'Broken Bones is a cracking start to a brand new series. Flawed characters, twists and turns galore and a brutal mystery that had me guessing until the end.' Bestselling crime author Wes Markin
'A twisty, tartan-clad cracker laced with dark humour.' Bestselling crime author Ross Greenwood
'Always a five star for John Carson. His books just keep getting better and better.' Reader Review
'Another great book from this highly recommend author. Hard to put down any of his books they keep you gripped from the beginning to the end.' Reader Review
'OUTSTANDING!' Reader Review
'A brilliant new series from one of my favourite authors!' Reader Review
'Lots of humour and normality as well as intrigue and right at the end, the final, and most stunning twist.' Reader Review
- GenresMystery
Audio CD
Published October 4, 2026
About the author
John Carson
128 books191 followersJohn Carson is the author of the DI Frank Miller detective series. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland and lived there most of his life. In 2006, he emigrated to New York State with his American wife and two daughters. They now live in a small town in the Hudson Valley where his wife was brought up, with a German Shepherd, a Beagle mix and four cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 19, 2026
A man walking his dog finds a body. DCI Liam Brodie is on the case to investigate this suspicious death.
Silent Embers is the 3rd book in the DCI Liam Brodie series and can clearly be read as a stand-alone. I have never read a book from John Carson before and did not feel at a disadvantage. The reader does not need to know any back story and can enjoy this Scottish police procedural from the first page.
I was impressed by the quality of writing and think the plot is simply brilliant. There are plenty of threads to follow and Silent Embers is a very entertaining read. There is a lot of humour woven between the pages, workplace humour in particular. I loved the scene where a detective embarrassed himself in a car showroom. It also made me cringe when police officers interviewed a widow and one of them tripped over. My favourite humour clip is a social commentary/observation…
She ordered a coffee with milk - a flat white in other places, but who in God’s name decided that it needed a fancy name?
…I loved the psychology involved, not just high-functioning sociopaths but people who move to a new city being watchful. As the author explains…
New environments made you alert. It was a perfectly ordinary response to an unfamiliar place. He’d read about it - the heightened vigilance of relocation, the way the brain mapped new territory by tracking everything that moved.
…There are many, many surprises for the police and the reader as the plot unfolds. There are a lot of people for the police and the reader to keep track of, it being easy for everyone to make assumptions. Although an incident 5 years ago needs to be resolved, this story has a lovely linear timescale, no backwards and forwards to annoy the reader. When I got to the last page I thought WOW! That was a BRILLIANT 5 star read and look forward to reading more from John Carson.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Boldwood Books for passing me an ARC on the understanding that I post a review.
Silent Embers is the 3rd book in the DCI Liam Brodie series and can clearly be read as a stand-alone. I have never read a book from John Carson before and did not feel at a disadvantage. The reader does not need to know any back story and can enjoy this Scottish police procedural from the first page.
I was impressed by the quality of writing and think the plot is simply brilliant. There are plenty of threads to follow and Silent Embers is a very entertaining read. There is a lot of humour woven between the pages, workplace humour in particular. I loved the scene where a detective embarrassed himself in a car showroom. It also made me cringe when police officers interviewed a widow and one of them tripped over. My favourite humour clip is a social commentary/observation…
She ordered a coffee with milk - a flat white in other places, but who in God’s name decided that it needed a fancy name?
…I loved the psychology involved, not just high-functioning sociopaths but people who move to a new city being watchful. As the author explains…
New environments made you alert. It was a perfectly ordinary response to an unfamiliar place. He’d read about it - the heightened vigilance of relocation, the way the brain mapped new territory by tracking everything that moved.
…There are many, many surprises for the police and the reader as the plot unfolds. There are a lot of people for the police and the reader to keep track of, it being easy for everyone to make assumptions. Although an incident 5 years ago needs to be resolved, this story has a lovely linear timescale, no backwards and forwards to annoy the reader. When I got to the last page I thought WOW! That was a BRILLIANT 5 star read and look forward to reading more from John Carson.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Boldwood Books for passing me an ARC on the understanding that I post a review.
October 6, 2026
Unfortunately I had to DNF this book.
This is a problem with myself being neurodivergent, and not the fault of the writer.
I read up to 16% (chapter 9). By chapter 3, 15 characters had been introduced. By the point I got to? 22, 1 cat and 1 dog! I'm not sure how I was supposed to keep up with who was who!
I loved the style of writing, but I genuinely had to keep a notepad next to me when reading, with names of all the characters and who they were. This was sadly not enjoyable for me, when I just want to relax and read a book.
This is a problem with myself being neurodivergent, and not the fault of the writer.
I read up to 16% (chapter 9). By chapter 3, 15 characters had been introduced. By the point I got to? 22, 1 cat and 1 dog! I'm not sure how I was supposed to keep up with who was who!
I loved the style of writing, but I genuinely had to keep a notepad next to me when reading, with names of all the characters and who they were. This was sadly not enjoyable for me, when I just want to relax and read a book.
September 6, 2026
Silent Embers by John Carson is a highly recommended police procedural/crime thriller and the third novel in the DCI Liam Brodie series set in Scotland.
On Halloween night in Kirkcadly, Fife, 29-year-old Rachel Turner is late meeting her friends Emma and Jess for drinks at The Robert Nairn. She decides to take the shortcut through the graveyard where she is killed and buried in a shallow grave. A blue and white dress, a theatrical costume, is left handing on a tree branch above her, which is a clear message for the investigators. Her body is later discovered by a man walking his dog and DCI Liam Brodie and his team are called in to investigate.
The dress is obviously a major clue that leads the investigation back five years earlier when a devastating fire burned down a local theater, leaving two dead and others injured. Rachel and her two friends were active in the theater before the fire. Eventually there are several ongoing investigations that merge in this suspenseful investigative thriller that also offers some humor along the way. There are also basically three different investigations going on simultaneously. Everything does come together in the end to a satisfying conclusion.
This is another well-written addition to the series. The investigations logically follow the clues and follow up on their instincts and all information they uncover. The characters continue to be portrayed as realistic individuals and the whole team works very well together. As I have read all three of the novels in the series, I know these characters and their backgrounds, but I still think this could be read as a standalone. The pacing seemed a bit slow half way through the novel this time, but I'm looking forward to their next investigation. The series includes: Broken Bones, False Witness, Silent Embers, and the upcoming fourth book, Dead Locked.
Silent Embers is a great choice for those who enjoy procedurals/crime thrillers. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
https://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/...
On Halloween night in Kirkcadly, Fife, 29-year-old Rachel Turner is late meeting her friends Emma and Jess for drinks at The Robert Nairn. She decides to take the shortcut through the graveyard where she is killed and buried in a shallow grave. A blue and white dress, a theatrical costume, is left handing on a tree branch above her, which is a clear message for the investigators. Her body is later discovered by a man walking his dog and DCI Liam Brodie and his team are called in to investigate.
The dress is obviously a major clue that leads the investigation back five years earlier when a devastating fire burned down a local theater, leaving two dead and others injured. Rachel and her two friends were active in the theater before the fire. Eventually there are several ongoing investigations that merge in this suspenseful investigative thriller that also offers some humor along the way. There are also basically three different investigations going on simultaneously. Everything does come together in the end to a satisfying conclusion.
This is another well-written addition to the series. The investigations logically follow the clues and follow up on their instincts and all information they uncover. The characters continue to be portrayed as realistic individuals and the whole team works very well together. As I have read all three of the novels in the series, I know these characters and their backgrounds, but I still think this could be read as a standalone. The pacing seemed a bit slow half way through the novel this time, but I'm looking forward to their next investigation. The series includes: Broken Bones, False Witness, Silent Embers, and the upcoming fourth book, Dead Locked.
Silent Embers is a great choice for those who enjoy procedurals/crime thrillers. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
https://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/...
October 14, 2026
Silent Embers by John Carson is the third book in the excellent DCI Liam Brodie series especially as it was fast paced and full of twists and turns from the very beginning. I have really enjoyed reading this series and DCI Liam Brodie is an excellent character and I have enjoyed reading and learning more about him.
Silent Embers is set in Kirkcaldy which is a town in Scotland, located in the Fife
and in one of the best spooky times of the year . . . and on Halloween night.
A woman has been found murdered and in plain sight, her body has been left in a shallow grave, a theatrical dress is left hanging above her. She has been preserved, positioned and meant to be seen by many.
Now, five years earlier, a dress just like it was worn by a young actress named Nancy, and she died in a devastating Bonfire Night fire that tore through a local theatre. DCI Liam Brodie knows the dress is a message.. . . . . . but for who?
DCI Liam Brodie investigation soon leads him to the heavy blast doors of a nuclear bunker, which is deep underground, where two broken men guard the memory of Nancy. . . . . the woman they lost. But, they aren't the only ones with secrets…
With suspicion falls on those closest to the victim . . . .But, the real killer is watching and waiting, they are preparing his final act.
Now, the stage is set. The fuse is lit. The countdown has begun . . .to Bonfire Night! Tick Tock!
DCI Liam Brodie must act quickly and he has to work out who is pulling the strings before the final curtain falls in a bloody mess!!!
I highly recommend this series. Another excellent read. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
Silent Embers is set in Kirkcaldy which is a town in Scotland, located in the Fife
and in one of the best spooky times of the year . . . and on Halloween night.
A woman has been found murdered and in plain sight, her body has been left in a shallow grave, a theatrical dress is left hanging above her. She has been preserved, positioned and meant to be seen by many.
Now, five years earlier, a dress just like it was worn by a young actress named Nancy, and she died in a devastating Bonfire Night fire that tore through a local theatre. DCI Liam Brodie knows the dress is a message.. . . . . . but for who?
DCI Liam Brodie investigation soon leads him to the heavy blast doors of a nuclear bunker, which is deep underground, where two broken men guard the memory of Nancy. . . . . the woman they lost. But, they aren't the only ones with secrets…
With suspicion falls on those closest to the victim . . . .But, the real killer is watching and waiting, they are preparing his final act.
Now, the stage is set. The fuse is lit. The countdown has begun . . .to Bonfire Night! Tick Tock!
DCI Liam Brodie must act quickly and he has to work out who is pulling the strings before the final curtain falls in a bloody mess!!!
I highly recommend this series. Another excellent read. 5 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Big Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silent Embers is book three in the DCI Liam Brodie series, and whilst it could be read as a standalone, it’s obviously better to start at the beginning to fully appreciate the characters, their relationships and backstories. I really enjoyed this instalment, it’s dark, with plenty of suspects, lots of twists and turns, and more than a smattering of dark humour. As you would expect by book three, the characters are now well-developed, and the investigating team feels real and grounded and is without the usual in-fighting that so often features in this type of novel. I particularly like the chapters with Dr Kane; he really does give me the creeps!
The only thing that jarred slightly, was that in places, I felt I was reading three different stories, the team is large and regularly split into two distinctive groups, and running alongside we have the nail-biting investigation into Campbell Hall. I would’ve preferred these elements to come together more smoothly. All in all, this is a gripping police procedural, and I am already looking forward to reading the next in the series.
The only thing that jarred slightly, was that in places, I felt I was reading three different stories, the team is large and regularly split into two distinctive groups, and running alongside we have the nail-biting investigation into Campbell Hall. I would’ve preferred these elements to come together more smoothly. All in all, this is a gripping police procedural, and I am already looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silent Embers by John Carson is a good blend of mystery and thriller that begins with the murder of a woman on Halloween. The author paints haunting, atmospheric scenes, especially as the investigation unfolds against the backdrop of the community's dark history. DCI Liam Brodie, the protagonist, is a compelling character whose determination to uncover the truth is palpable. His journey through the layers of secrets surrounding the murder and the tragic past of Nancy, the young actress who died in a fire, provides a rich backdrop of emotions and motivations. Sometimes it was hard to keep track of the characters, and some were hard to like. I have a previous book in this series, so I was familiar with most of the characters. While the pacing is generally strong, there are moments in the middle where the plot feels somewhat drawn out, which can slow the momentum. However, the climax is well-crafted and delivers a suspenseful payoff.
Overall, Silent Embers effectively blends crime and thriller elements with an atmospheric setting. I would probably recommend this book and series.
#SilentEmbers #NetGalley
Overall, Silent Embers effectively blends crime and thriller elements with an atmospheric setting. I would probably recommend this book and series.
#SilentEmbers #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
DCI Liam Brodie is back for another adventure under the excellent writing of Mr. John Carson. The writing for this mystery is as good as ever. Every book I think he has reached his peak in this series only to be pleasantly surprised by the next novel.
Brodie and his crew have quite the mystery to solve. A body that has been left in a shallow grave leads them down quite the twisted tale. There are plenty of suspects and you will have a reason not to trust anyone. And yet, the conclusion is a pleasant surprise.
The subject matter in all of these books is dark, but the writing and humor will have you hanging onto every page. There is one character in particular that gave me several laugh out loud moments. There is one scene, in particular, that involved a widow and her dearly beloved husband that had me in tears. Absolute gold.
The only bad part is that the book ends. The good news is that Carson has already let us know the next book in the series and when to expect it. Looking forward to it, sir.
Brodie and his crew have quite the mystery to solve. A body that has been left in a shallow grave leads them down quite the twisted tale. There are plenty of suspects and you will have a reason not to trust anyone. And yet, the conclusion is a pleasant surprise.
The subject matter in all of these books is dark, but the writing and humor will have you hanging onto every page. There is one character in particular that gave me several laugh out loud moments. There is one scene, in particular, that involved a widow and her dearly beloved husband that had me in tears. Absolute gold.
The only bad part is that the book ends. The good news is that Carson has already let us know the next book in the series and when to expect it. Looking forward to it, sir.
September 13, 2026
Silent Embers by John Carson was a good crime thriller with a really good twist at the end. I didn’t realize when I started it that this was the third book in the DCI Liam Brodie series, and I did find myself confused at times with some of the characters and their backgrounds. I think I would have enjoyed it even more if I had read the first two books beforehand.
I also loved that the book was set in Scotland, especially since we’ll be visiting there in November. Although after reading about all that Scottish weather, I’m realizing I may need to add some good waterproof shoes to my packing list! 😂
The mystery kept me interested, and I really liked how everything came together in the end. I would definitely recommend starting this series with book one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
#SilentEmbers #JohnCarson #DCILiamBrodie #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #NetGalleyReview #ARCReview #BookReview #CrimeThriller #MysteryThriller #ScottishCrime #ThrillerReads #FourStarRead
I also loved that the book was set in Scotland, especially since we’ll be visiting there in November. Although after reading about all that Scottish weather, I’m realizing I may need to add some good waterproof shoes to my packing list! 😂
The mystery kept me interested, and I really liked how everything came together in the end. I would definitely recommend starting this series with book one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
#SilentEmbers #JohnCarson #DCILiamBrodie #BoldwoodBooks #NetGalley #NetGalleyReview #ARCReview #BookReview #CrimeThriller #MysteryThriller #ScottishCrime #ThrillerReads #FourStarRead
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Once Again Outstanding!
What happens when a Halloween murder and a deadly theatre fire from five years ago collide? DCI Liam Brodie is about to find out, and the answers are darker than anyone expects.
A woman is killed in plain sight, a theatrical dress hanging above her shallow grave sets out the jigsaw pieces for Brodie and the team.
The added bonus is we have two cases and two killers with another chilling investigation running alongside adding a gripping extra layer.
The meticulous police work and sheer determination had me racing through the pages but it's the team that truly shines. Their banter is a joy, and the flashes of genuine humour lighten the grit without ever undermining the tension. That urn episode had me laughing out loud. Comedy gold! I loved every one of them, and Brodie remains clever, empathetic and utterly compelling.
The best book of the series yet and perfect for fans of police procedurals with grit and heart.
Oh, and nobody does a simile like John Carson!
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All views are my own.
What happens when a Halloween murder and a deadly theatre fire from five years ago collide? DCI Liam Brodie is about to find out, and the answers are darker than anyone expects.
A woman is killed in plain sight, a theatrical dress hanging above her shallow grave sets out the jigsaw pieces for Brodie and the team.
The added bonus is we have two cases and two killers with another chilling investigation running alongside adding a gripping extra layer.
The meticulous police work and sheer determination had me racing through the pages but it's the team that truly shines. Their banter is a joy, and the flashes of genuine humour lighten the grit without ever undermining the tension. That urn episode had me laughing out loud. Comedy gold! I loved every one of them, and Brodie remains clever, empathetic and utterly compelling.
The best book of the series yet and perfect for fans of police procedurals with grit and heart.
Oh, and nobody does a simile like John Carson!
My thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All views are my own.
Review of advance copy
A young woman is brutally murdered and buried while taking a shortcut through a cemetery on Halloween in Fife. A theater costume dress is left hanging by her body. DCI Liam Brodie is assigned to investigate. The dress was worn in a play five years ago, the night the theater burned down, killing two people and injuring others. How does this relate to the murdered woman, and who else is in danger?
This fast-paced mystery/thriller features two intriguing plotlines centered around Brodie’s investigations. There’s a touch of humor amidst the dark story, along with twists and turns.
This is the third in the DCI Liam Brodie series. While it does work as a standalone, having read the prior installments will give more background and context.
Fans of mysteries, solid police procedurals, Scottish locations, and thrillers will enjoy this read.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for the DRC.
This fast-paced mystery/thriller features two intriguing plotlines centered around Brodie’s investigations. There’s a touch of humor amidst the dark story, along with twists and turns.
This is the third in the DCI Liam Brodie series. While it does work as a standalone, having read the prior installments will give more background and context.
Fans of mysteries, solid police procedurals, Scottish locations, and thrillers will enjoy this read.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for the DRC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another strong instalment in the DI Liam Brodie series. A woman’s body is discovered in an Edinburgh graveyard on Halloween night, a setting that instantly complicates the investigation — masks, costumes, and crowds make any potential suspect impossible to identify. As Brodie digs deeper, the victim’s past resurfaces: a devastating theatre fire five years earlier. Are her former castmates now in danger?
Running alongside the main case is an undercover operation aimed at trapping a potential serial killer, adding tension and urgency to every chapter. This book also introduces a new detective who appears to have landed on the major incident team through sheer accident — or perhaps through leverage. Clumsy, chaotic, and lacking decorum, he somehow becomes an unlikely but oddly likeable presence.
A layered, gripping read that blends atmosphere, character, and procedural intrigue beautifully.
Running alongside the main case is an undercover operation aimed at trapping a potential serial killer, adding tension and urgency to every chapter. This book also introduces a new detective who appears to have landed on the major incident team through sheer accident — or perhaps through leverage. Clumsy, chaotic, and lacking decorum, he somehow becomes an unlikely but oddly likeable presence.
A layered, gripping read that blends atmosphere, character, and procedural intrigue beautifully.
August 29, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This was a really enjoyable, fast-paced crime thriller. A young woman is murdered in a cemetery on Halloween, and the theatre costume left beside her body links the murder to a fire five years earlier that killed two people. There’s plenty for DCI Liam Brodie to untangle as the two investigations start to come together.
I liked the two strands of the story and how the connections gradually became clearer. There are plenty of twists and turns, with just enough humour to break up some of the darker moments.
This is the third book featuring Liam Brodie, but it worked well for me as a standalone. I liked Brodie and the supporting characters and will definitely be going back to read the earlier books.
A gripping mystery with a great Scottish setting and plenty to keep me guessing.
This was a really enjoyable, fast-paced crime thriller. A young woman is murdered in a cemetery on Halloween, and the theatre costume left beside her body links the murder to a fire five years earlier that killed two people. There’s plenty for DCI Liam Brodie to untangle as the two investigations start to come together.
I liked the two strands of the story and how the connections gradually became clearer. There are plenty of twists and turns, with just enough humour to break up some of the darker moments.
This is the third book featuring Liam Brodie, but it worked well for me as a standalone. I liked Brodie and the supporting characters and will definitely be going back to read the earlier books.
A gripping mystery with a great Scottish setting and plenty to keep me guessing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Tense police thriller with a key exception🤔
3.5-4 🌟 stars
Great plot, split into two separate Scottish murder cases based in a town in Fife and Edinburgh, both under investigation led by DCI Brodie. It's fast-paced, with a definite sense of urgency and some gripping action scenes, all happening in late October/early November. The thing that brought it down was the chit chat, lackadaisical work and obnoxious buffoonery of cop Don with his two associates. I've never been a Three Stooges fan and these three guys grated on my last nerve (Cameron a bit less so). Two scenes late in the story seemed to redeem Don but his comments and earlier actions left a bad impression.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
3.5-4 🌟 stars
Great plot, split into two separate Scottish murder cases based in a town in Fife and Edinburgh, both under investigation led by DCI Brodie. It's fast-paced, with a definite sense of urgency and some gripping action scenes, all happening in late October/early November. The thing that brought it down was the chit chat, lackadaisical work and obnoxious buffoonery of cop Don with his two associates. I've never been a Three Stooges fan and these three guys grated on my last nerve (Cameron a bit less so). Two scenes late in the story seemed to redeem Don but his comments and earlier actions left a bad impression.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the third book in the DCI Liam Brodie series. It's not a series or author I'm familiar with. I saw a Scottish setting and thought that would be a nice change.
Though this can be read as a standalone, reading the other books would give background and context. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I knew the background.
It's a twisty and engaging story with interesting characters. I was hooked all the way through. This is a little bit darker, more mystery thriller than straight up mystery but the humour helps lighten it.
I would definitely recommend this series to fans of mystery thrillers and police procedurals.
Due to be released 4th October and with a Halloween setting it would be a great autumn read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC
Though this can be read as a standalone, reading the other books would give background and context. I think I would have enjoyed it more if I knew the background.
It's a twisty and engaging story with interesting characters. I was hooked all the way through. This is a little bit darker, more mystery thriller than straight up mystery but the humour helps lighten it.
I would definitely recommend this series to fans of mystery thrillers and police procedurals.
Due to be released 4th October and with a Halloween setting it would be a great autumn read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨️Spoiler Free Review✨️
Thanks to @netgalley @johncarsonauthor and @boldwoodbooks for the ARC in return for my honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the series and it certainly didn't disappoint! It was fast a paced police procedural thriller and full of twists and turns and 2 intriguing plotlines! As always, there were great characters but it did feel, in parts that DCI Liam Brodie wasn't the actual star of the show, seemed to be the Breck & Don show, that being said every character well thought out, and Kane gives me the the absolute chills!
I absolutely devoured this book, and although you can read it as a standalone, I did find it useful having read the other 2 as I got a lot more context.
I definitely can't wait for the next book to come out!
Thanks to @netgalley @johncarsonauthor and @boldwoodbooks for the ARC in return for my honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the series and it certainly didn't disappoint! It was fast a paced police procedural thriller and full of twists and turns and 2 intriguing plotlines! As always, there were great characters but it did feel, in parts that DCI Liam Brodie wasn't the actual star of the show, seemed to be the Breck & Don show, that being said every character well thought out, and Kane gives me the the absolute chills!
I absolutely devoured this book, and although you can read it as a standalone, I did find it useful having read the other 2 as I got a lot more context.
I definitely can't wait for the next book to come out!
October 4, 2026
This was a really good murder mystery/police procedural. DCI Liam Brodie is seconded to Fife again after a young woman was murdered on Halloween night. A dress was left with the body which was quite puzzling at first. Liam and the team in Fife have to put the pieces together in a murder case that was five years in the making. At the same time, a serial killer has managed to literally get way with murder but with some excellent police work, Liam and the team are finally able to put that case to rest too. I really like Liam. He's no-nonsense and a strong character. The team in Fife are also excellent characters and work well together despite their different personalities. A great read.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and John Carsons for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and John Carsons for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another terrific DCI Liam Brodie story.
Carson grabs the gold ring once again.
This time, Brodie is tasked with the investigation of the murder of a young woman whose body was found in a freshly dug grave in the local cemetery on Halloween, where a dress was found hanging on next to the grave.
He and his group of investigators begin looking into her life and her years as an actress in a local drama club where a fire burned the building down, taking two lives . Looking for clues in her past and her present relationships takes them all down a rabbit's hole.
Good suspense, with twists and turns that abound.
Interesting characters and a story that moves easily along.
Really good read.
Carson grabs the gold ring once again.
This time, Brodie is tasked with the investigation of the murder of a young woman whose body was found in a freshly dug grave in the local cemetery on Halloween, where a dress was found hanging on next to the grave.
He and his group of investigators begin looking into her life and her years as an actress in a local drama club where a fire burned the building down, taking two lives . Looking for clues in her past and her present relationships takes them all down a rabbit's hole.
Good suspense, with twists and turns that abound.
Interesting characters and a story that moves easily along.
Really good read.
October 13, 2026
Set in Kirkcaldy at Hallowe'en giving the story a good cover when the killer is quite literally hiding in plain sight ! There are 3 friends - one of whom is about to be married with the other two as bridemaids who are being targeted and it all seems to point back to a fire in a local theatre 5 years before where the women escaped from however there were deaths and injuries to others that night. Plenty of twists and turns throughout and I didn't guess the killer until the very end. Book 3 in this series but may be read as a stand alone too.
Thanks to Netgalley / Boldwood books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Netgalley / Boldwood books for the ARC to review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoy this series featuring DCI Liam Bridie and set in the east of Scotland. The writing flows well and the team dynamics are good, with touches of humour in the dialogue. The pace is fast, although it slowed down in the middle but this never spoiled my enjoyment of the book. The characters are interesting and well thought out, especially Don who is a bit of a dark horse. Silent Embers is a very good suspense filled police procedural which I am sure fans of the genre will enjoy. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silent Embers by John Carson ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 3 in the DCI Liam Brodie series. A stand alone series with crossover characters and story line. I highly recommend reading them in order.
Fasted paced police procedural intriguing murder set in Scotland with twists and turns to keep you engaged throughout the book. Well devolved characters to fall in love with.
If murder/thriller 🔪 is your genre, you will definitely want to pre-order your copy today for an October 4th release date
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy.
Book 3 in the DCI Liam Brodie series. A stand alone series with crossover characters and story line. I highly recommend reading them in order.
Fasted paced police procedural intriguing murder set in Scotland with twists and turns to keep you engaged throughout the book. Well devolved characters to fall in love with.
If murder/thriller 🔪 is your genre, you will definitely want to pre-order your copy today for an October 4th release date
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy.
October 4, 2026
This is a good addition to the series and a sequel that kept me interested from beginning to end. I really enjoyed the characters and the way the story developed. Most of the characters are great, although I have to admit that Don is quite annoying at times! The story is well paced, with enough suspense and twists to keep you reading and wanting to find out what happens next. It was an enjoyable read and a good continuation of the series.
I received an advance review copy via Netgalley/Boldwood Books and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I received an advance review copy via Netgalley/Boldwood Books and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
October 12, 2026
The brand new book in the DCI Liam Brodie series.
It's Halloween and in amongst all the trick or treating and drunken revelry a young woman is viciously attacked. Left in a shallow grave her body is soon discovered. A dress is found hanging in a tree nearby. What could it mean?
Once again DCI Liam Brodie is called in to lead the investigation. Can he get to the truth before there are any more bodies?
As usual I was hooked from the start. I flew through it in 2 sittings and I cannot wait to read more.
It's Halloween and in amongst all the trick or treating and drunken revelry a young woman is viciously attacked. Left in a shallow grave her body is soon discovered. A dress is found hanging in a tree nearby. What could it mean?
Once again DCI Liam Brodie is called in to lead the investigation. Can he get to the truth before there are any more bodies?
As usual I was hooked from the start. I flew through it in 2 sittings and I cannot wait to read more.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Silent Embers by John Carson is another gripping read featuring DCI Liam Broddie. The story pulled me in with its suspense, and steady stream of twists. I enjoyed trying to piece together what was really happening as the investigation unfolded, and there were enough surprises to keep me turning the pages. Carson does a great job creating tension and keeping the mystery moving right through to the end.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 20, 2026
Murdered in plain sight ad left posed in a theatrical dress in a shallow grave. This death is sending message to DCI Liam Brodie. Brodie must discover who is controlling the plot as suspicion is focused on those closest tot he vicim but the real killer is poised to act.
This is the third book in the series, written with a fast pace and plenty of twists to keep the reader engaged. I really enjoyed this one.
This is the third book in the series, written with a fast pace and plenty of twists to keep the reader engaged. I really enjoyed this one.
October 4, 2026
Liam Brody travels to Fife to investigate the killing of a woman at Halloween. This story continues the excellent series from John Carson. Twists and turns galore with great banter between the characters although Don is super annoying. I highly recommend this series. With thanks to the author and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this book. Took me a while to get into but by the end I was immersed in the characters. Interesting storyline and great character development. The last part of the book where they gave Don a backstory really stuck with me. Highly recommended
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
SILENT EMBERS - My first read by this author and I loved it. Well written. Intriguing story lines. A variety of interesting characters. I enjoyed all the regular characters, especially Don, and the non-law Chucky. The bits of humor had me belly laughing. Source: NetGalley and Boldwood Books. 5*
October 7, 2026
Fantastic read 📚
DCI's Brodie and McCall share two cases ... both are complex and have the teams on their toes trying to solve them, without too many bodies at the finish!
John Carson at his best 👌
5🌟aren't enough for yhis written masterpiece ✨️
DCI's Brodie and McCall share two cases ... both are complex and have the teams on their toes trying to solve them, without too many bodies at the finish!
John Carson at his best 👌
5🌟aren't enough for yhis written masterpiece ✨️
October 17, 2026
Good read
Another great hook from John Carson I love how the main detective is Brody GusTafson brings in characters from other books and different parts of the area look forward to reading the ne xt John Carson book.
Another great hook from John Carson I love how the main detective is Brody GusTafson brings in characters from other books and different parts of the area look forward to reading the ne xt John Carson book.
October 13, 2026
Excellent
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more of his work I have recommended this author to members of my book club .
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more of his work I have recommended this author to members of my book club .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews