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Damen Brook #4
The Unquiet Grave
The past can't stay hidden forever...
The Cold Case Unit of Derby Constabulary feels like a morgue to DI Damen Brook. But in disgrace and recently back from suspension, his boss thinks it's the safest place for him.
But Brook isn't going down without a fight and when he uncovers a pattern in a series of murders that date back to 1963, he is forced to dig deeper. How could a killer stay undetected for so long? Could it be luck or are more sinister forces at work?
Applying his instincts and razor sharp intelligence, Brook delves deep into the past of both suspects and colleagues unsure where the hunt will lead him. What he does know for sure is that a significant date is approaching fast and the killer may be about to strike again...
The Cold Case Unit of Derby Constabulary feels like a morgue to DI Damen Brook. But in disgrace and recently back from suspension, his boss thinks it's the safest place for him.
But Brook isn't going down without a fight and when he uncovers a pattern in a series of murders that date back to 1963, he is forced to dig deeper. How could a killer stay undetected for so long? Could it be luck or are more sinister forces at work?
Applying his instincts and razor sharp intelligence, Brook delves deep into the past of both suspects and colleagues unsure where the hunt will lead him. What he does know for sure is that a significant date is approaching fast and the killer may be about to strike again...
448 pages, Paperback
First published July 4, 2013
7 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Steven Dunne
21 books123 followers Steven left Rhodesway School in Bradford, Yorkshire in 1976 after taking A-levels. He graduated from Kent University in 1979 and, after taking a year’s Post Graduate Certificate in Education at St Mary’s College in Twickenham, he undertook a variety of jobs in London, including Public Relations Consultant, freelance Journalist and supply teacher.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
He wrote occasional articles for The Guardian, The Times and The Independent while working on various writing projects including his own brief career in stand-up comedy. During this time he co-wrote a comedy pilot for Channel 4 entitled Not Enough Poodles but, unfortunately it fell at the final commissioning hurdle. He wrote the Book for the award-winning Latchmere Theatre Christmas pantomime of Hansel and Gretel in 1989.
In 1988, he began teaching English in Croydon before moving to Derby in 1996, where he began to think about writing a novel.
After being turned onto thrillers by Thomas Harris' The Silence of the Lambs, he realised that most thrillers failed to deliver their promised exitement, so in 2007, after spending two fruitless years marketing the novel to the publishing industry, Steven self-published Reaper, a thriller about a serial killer who strikes in Derby. It sold over 1500 copies in the East Midlands and in 2008, and received very encouraging reviews. Harper Collins bought the rights and The Reaper was released internationally in 2009. A sequel, The Disciple, was released in August 2010. Both books were critically acclaimed. He signed a publishing deal at Headline to release the next DI Brook thriller Deity, which will be released in June 2012.
You can also contact him on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 13, 2017
So, another in the Damen Brook series and I have to say this one was top notch.
Brook is out in cold. Although it's not necessary to read all the books, they can be read as standalones, so much is missed if they're not. And from book three we know why. As punishment for his sins Brook is sent down to the cold, dark basement and set to work on cold cases. With little in the way of enthusiasm he sets off with his flask of tea and gets to work. Using his usual diligence he soon comes across a case that stretches back decades, to the sixties in fact; and starts joining dots. What slowly starts to reveal itself is a very complicated case that seems to be presenting itself up to the present day.
It's an incredible, complex case that frankly left me dazzled. If only in awe of Dunne himself. How on earth he kept track of the suspects, timelines and everything interspersing is beyond me. It's absolutely brilliant and kept me spellbound throughout. I was completely enthralled by this novel as it tapped into everything I love about all things crime. Brilliant characters, great settings and total immersion into a story that kept me reading when I really should have been doing other things!
Brook was at his absolute dogged best and would not let go until lights began to switch on. If you haven't come across these books, that really should be rectified. You're missing a gem of a series.
Highly recommend!
Brook is out in cold. Although it's not necessary to read all the books, they can be read as standalones, so much is missed if they're not. And from book three we know why. As punishment for his sins Brook is sent down to the cold, dark basement and set to work on cold cases. With little in the way of enthusiasm he sets off with his flask of tea and gets to work. Using his usual diligence he soon comes across a case that stretches back decades, to the sixties in fact; and starts joining dots. What slowly starts to reveal itself is a very complicated case that seems to be presenting itself up to the present day.
It's an incredible, complex case that frankly left me dazzled. If only in awe of Dunne himself. How on earth he kept track of the suspects, timelines and everything interspersing is beyond me. It's absolutely brilliant and kept me spellbound throughout. I was completely enthralled by this novel as it tapped into everything I love about all things crime. Brilliant characters, great settings and total immersion into a story that kept me reading when I really should have been doing other things!
Brook was at his absolute dogged best and would not let go until lights began to switch on. If you haven't come across these books, that really should be rectified. You're missing a gem of a series.
Highly recommend!
March 11, 2014
This is the fourth book set in and around Derby and the Dales, focusing on DI Brook, a damaged detective and at the end of book three, Deity, suspended.
It starts with him thinking he should retire; he's faulty goods and his loyal DS, looks likely to be passed over for promotion and also ready to resign.
Matters go from bad to worse as Brook is sent to work on Cold Cases in the basement of Police HQ and kept out the loop in a hoorible child murder and abduction. Brook uses to investigates old cases; his loyalty to Noble and his inability to switch off from police work.
I think this story finally demonstrates the coming of age of Steven Dunne as an accomplished novellist, an author at ease with his craft.
The plot is cleverly interwoven with the modern investigation and it keeps Brook to the fore and a constant thorn in the side of many colleagues who have written him off and fatally underestimate him.
He finds both errors and cover ups, the suppressing relevent evidence and misdirection. A terrific puzzle but written so well you never get lost in the various timelines of the past crimes being reviewed. Full of twists and turns and packed with mystery and menace throughout.
The best book yet in a very fine collection of novels, the irony of Brook investigating cold cases when couldn't get The Reaper or resolution in his last investigation is not lost on the reader.
An author at the height of his powers worthy of your interest and attention, check him out.
It starts with him thinking he should retire; he's faulty goods and his loyal DS, looks likely to be passed over for promotion and also ready to resign.
Matters go from bad to worse as Brook is sent to work on Cold Cases in the basement of Police HQ and kept out the loop in a hoorible child murder and abduction. Brook uses to investigates old cases; his loyalty to Noble and his inability to switch off from police work.
I think this story finally demonstrates the coming of age of Steven Dunne as an accomplished novellist, an author at ease with his craft.
The plot is cleverly interwoven with the modern investigation and it keeps Brook to the fore and a constant thorn in the side of many colleagues who have written him off and fatally underestimate him.
He finds both errors and cover ups, the suppressing relevent evidence and misdirection. A terrific puzzle but written so well you never get lost in the various timelines of the past crimes being reviewed. Full of twists and turns and packed with mystery and menace throughout.
The best book yet in a very fine collection of novels, the irony of Brook investigating cold cases when couldn't get The Reaper or resolution in his last investigation is not lost on the reader.
An author at the height of his powers worthy of your interest and attention, check him out.
July 16, 2014
The Unquiet Grave by Steven Dunne
Detective Inspector Damen Brook, a disgraced Derby detective has been assigned to the Cold Case Unit of Derby Constabulary. His superiors feel burying Brook in cold cases will further punish the just returning from suspension policeman. Brook is assigned to work with retired Inspector Clive Copeland to comb through decades of unsolved murders. The files he is handed are child murders that go back 60 years.
Dunne has built a suspenseful police procedural that is multi-layered, and complex. It is rife with emotional connections that span six decades of friendship, trust, and unrequited love, and a murderer that operates with a cold cunning and twisted logic that is ever so patient.
Rarely have I read such a complex murder mystery, it satisfies on all levels. Dunne's prose is clear and concise, cutting to the heart of the matter eloquently. His character building is impeccable and thorough. The reader knows these characters, and finally their motivations.
Highly Recommended.
Detective Inspector Damen Brook, a disgraced Derby detective has been assigned to the Cold Case Unit of Derby Constabulary. His superiors feel burying Brook in cold cases will further punish the just returning from suspension policeman. Brook is assigned to work with retired Inspector Clive Copeland to comb through decades of unsolved murders. The files he is handed are child murders that go back 60 years.
Dunne has built a suspenseful police procedural that is multi-layered, and complex. It is rife with emotional connections that span six decades of friendship, trust, and unrequited love, and a murderer that operates with a cold cunning and twisted logic that is ever so patient.
Rarely have I read such a complex murder mystery, it satisfies on all levels. Dunne's prose is clear and concise, cutting to the heart of the matter eloquently. His character building is impeccable and thorough. The reader knows these characters, and finally their motivations.
Highly Recommended.
January 16, 2016
Another cracker of a book featuring one of my favourite detectives Damen Brook. Now demoted to the cold case department Brook relies on good old detective work and his gut instinct to solve a 50 year old murder and an abduction case at the same time. If you enjoy police procedural and crime books I would definitely recommend this series..... but start at the beginning with The Reaper
March 25, 2022
Setting: Derby, UK. This is the fourth in the series featuring D.I. Damen Brook. Just returned from suspension after incidents in Book Three, Brook is 'dumped' into the Cold Case Unit, where he works with a retired former D.I. Whilst his former colleagues are searching for a missing boy, Brook ends up reviewing a number of cold cases, one of which dates back to 1963 - but as he reviews the case, evidence comes to light that this may be part of a series of murders by a killer dubbed The Pied Piper. Although this theory has been ridiculed in the past by other officers, Brook can see the evidence pointing towards it - and finds surprising links to the case currently being investigated by his former colleagues....
This is another excellent crime novel in the series: bearing in mind the years that have passed since the first murder, resolution of the case seems impossible - but Brook perseveres and the reveal of the various murders and who committed them was stunning. This, coupled with the familiar Derbyshire settings, made this a most enjoyable read for me - 9/10.
This is another excellent crime novel in the series: bearing in mind the years that have passed since the first murder, resolution of the case seems impossible - but Brook perseveres and the reveal of the various murders and who committed them was stunning. This, coupled with the familiar Derbyshire settings, made this a most enjoyable read for me - 9/10.
June 24, 2013
If there are any crime thriller fans out there who have not yet been introduced to Steven Dunne's 'Reaper' series featuring the brooding maverick DI Damen Brooks, then you are in for a real treat. In fact, I'm a tiny bit envious of anyone who still has all four of these incredible books to read.
The Unquiet Grave finds DI Brooks back at the station after his recent suspension and injury. Brook has few friends and many enemies, and finds himself relegated to the cold case department. In his morgue-like office, surrounded by yellowing files containing cases that many other Detectives have tried and failed to solve, Brook considers his own future at regular intervals. His relationship with his daughter is strained, he's living on rice and cream cheese and has given up smoking. Only his old partner, DS John Noble, still believes in him and the local newspaper reporter is determined to blacken his name even more.
Brook's only colleague in the cold case department is Copeland; an ex-cop who devoted his life and his career to trying to catch his sister Tilly's murderer. Copeland's life has been ruined by that one event so many years ago, and Tilly's case has been reviewed time and time again.
Brook begins to see a pattern in a series of murders that began back in 1963 and the deeper he digs, the more he discovers. Wondering why these cases have remained unsolved for so long, Brook soon realises that he is uncovering not just the identity of the murderer, but also a web of lies and deceit from both inside and outside of the force.
Just like Steven Dunne's first three books; The Reaper, The Disciple and Deity, The Unquiet Grave kept me reading until the early hours. This really is high-end crime writing, excellently constructed and throwing enough red herrings around to both challenge and thrill the reader. DI Brook is a multi-layered character, and whilst there are a stock of flawed detective characters floating around the crime genre at the moment, Brook stands out from the rest with his intelligence, his emotional baggage and his determination to get to the bottom of a case, no matter what it takes.
The Unquiet Grave grips the reader from the first paragraph and doesn't let go until the very last word. The pace is perfect and the twists are genius.
The Unquiet Grave finds DI Brooks back at the station after his recent suspension and injury. Brook has few friends and many enemies, and finds himself relegated to the cold case department. In his morgue-like office, surrounded by yellowing files containing cases that many other Detectives have tried and failed to solve, Brook considers his own future at regular intervals. His relationship with his daughter is strained, he's living on rice and cream cheese and has given up smoking. Only his old partner, DS John Noble, still believes in him and the local newspaper reporter is determined to blacken his name even more.
Brook's only colleague in the cold case department is Copeland; an ex-cop who devoted his life and his career to trying to catch his sister Tilly's murderer. Copeland's life has been ruined by that one event so many years ago, and Tilly's case has been reviewed time and time again.
Brook begins to see a pattern in a series of murders that began back in 1963 and the deeper he digs, the more he discovers. Wondering why these cases have remained unsolved for so long, Brook soon realises that he is uncovering not just the identity of the murderer, but also a web of lies and deceit from both inside and outside of the force.
Just like Steven Dunne's first three books; The Reaper, The Disciple and Deity, The Unquiet Grave kept me reading until the early hours. This really is high-end crime writing, excellently constructed and throwing enough red herrings around to both challenge and thrill the reader. DI Brook is a multi-layered character, and whilst there are a stock of flawed detective characters floating around the crime genre at the moment, Brook stands out from the rest with his intelligence, his emotional baggage and his determination to get to the bottom of a case, no matter what it takes.
The Unquiet Grave grips the reader from the first paragraph and doesn't let go until the very last word. The pace is perfect and the twists are genius.
June 2, 2013
So. Another in the series featuring DI Damen Brook, I have been looking forward to this one and it didnt disappoint. DI Brook, back from his latest "leave" is stuck investigating Cold cases - a job he neither wants nor is particularly interested in. Determined to toe the line though, he dives in with a modicum of enthusiasm...until something peaks his interest. And of course, this IS Damen Brook we are talking about so soon he is going off at a tangent in his own way and the possibility of a hidden killer begins to emerge. With its foot firmly in the past, this novel covers decades - from the sixties onwards - and each little part of the whole is beautifully written. With subtle changes to the writing style giving each period in history its own feel, the main bulk of the story follows Damen as he sorts through the myriad of information, forgotton memories and lost details that together will give him the solution he seeks. And trust me, its quite a solution. Until DI Brook told me the whole story I didnt get the whole story - but its all there. And with hindsight makes perfect sense. So a clever crime novel, a "whodunnit" but also a tense race against time to save a life. And what was truly brilliant? I was honestly not sure whether or not the clock would be beaten and Brook would emerge triumphant- and you won't be either. You want me to tell you don't you? I know you do..well I won't. Because why on earth would I spoil your fun? Or allow you to spoil mine while I watch you swim in the sea of wonderful confusion, twists and turns that is "The Unquiet Grave".
My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy of this book. I will be talking about it again nearer its release date of the 4th July and its entirely possibly you may find an expansion on the above thoughts - there is a lot to this book. For now I want you to put it on your lists folks. And if you havent met Brook yet - well what are you waiting for? You have time! For the events leading up to "The Unquiet Grave" it is fine to start with "Deity". A tip for readers, I know that its helpful to know if a series MUST be read in order. Mr Dunne's books are all stunning in their own way - but each can be read on its own merits.
My thanks to the publisher for the advance copy of this book. I will be talking about it again nearer its release date of the 4th July and its entirely possibly you may find an expansion on the above thoughts - there is a lot to this book. For now I want you to put it on your lists folks. And if you havent met Brook yet - well what are you waiting for? You have time! For the events leading up to "The Unquiet Grave" it is fine to start with "Deity". A tip for readers, I know that its helpful to know if a series MUST be read in order. Mr Dunne's books are all stunning in their own way - but each can be read on its own merits.
December 17, 2015
well I don't really know what to say, Dunne it again Mr S....
fantastic plotlines etc...again!!!
One of my top 5 author's so much so I have read the books on my kindle and bought in real form, can't wait to meet the Reaper etc... on paper pages. Fantastic book!!!
fantastic plotlines etc...again!!!
One of my top 5 author's so much so I have read the books on my kindle and bought in real form, can't wait to meet the Reaper etc... on paper pages. Fantastic book!!!
April 10, 2017
I was really looking forward to reading this book after Deity which was a great read but I was sadly disappointed. I don't know how old Mr Dunne is but the main non-police characters in this book were all born about 1950 so it beggars belief that out of 18 children at a party only 3 are alive and of those 3 only one doesn't live in OAP accommodation and isn't seriously ill. It put me off the whole book. That and the fact that half the plot was pretty obvious almost from the start. I didn't enjoy it as I felt it was overly convoluted and not well thought out - the party had to be in 1963 so that some of the investigators were still alive but the characters had to be old for plot reasons.
July 15, 2018
On his return from sick leave and suspension DI Damen Brook is assigned to the newly formed Cold Case Unit. He starts investigating a number of murders which may be linked and becomes involved in an increasingly complex case.
Another really good read in this series.
Another really good read in this series.
September 1, 2024
Really good crime novel.
June 2, 2015
I don't want to give too much away in my review about the plot of the book as you really should read it yourself.
The book opens where DI Damen Brook returns to work following his suspension from the job he loved. DI Brook made a serious mistake in the previous book called Deity and he is now paying for it. As punishment he is sent to the Cold Case Unit consisting of him himself and a retired Detective Chief Inspector. DI Brook revisits a case from the 1960s which involved the death of a child. As he investigates it becomes clear that there is more to the case than meets the eye. The further he digs, the more he uncovers. Literally. At the same time DS John Noble and DI Ford investigate a case of a disappearing boy, which ultimately links in with DI Brook's case. DI Brook & DS Noble face a terrifying race against time to apprehend a serial killer and locate a missing child, who is only just clinging to life.
DI Brook is like his old self. However he does feel an enormous amount of guilt because DS John Noble was passed over for promotion to Detective Inspector as a consequence of the actions of DI Brook and Noble's involvement in them.
This series just keeps getting better and better. This book really is a page turner and I haven't yet read a book by Steven Dunne that I have not loved. As I have said in other reviews on his work, I can't understand why Steven Dunne is not more popular, accepted or publicised within the literary world. This series of books is far better than some of the more established series. The series is just waiting to be made into a television series.
The book opens where DI Damen Brook returns to work following his suspension from the job he loved. DI Brook made a serious mistake in the previous book called Deity and he is now paying for it. As punishment he is sent to the Cold Case Unit consisting of him himself and a retired Detective Chief Inspector. DI Brook revisits a case from the 1960s which involved the death of a child. As he investigates it becomes clear that there is more to the case than meets the eye. The further he digs, the more he uncovers. Literally. At the same time DS John Noble and DI Ford investigate a case of a disappearing boy, which ultimately links in with DI Brook's case. DI Brook & DS Noble face a terrifying race against time to apprehend a serial killer and locate a missing child, who is only just clinging to life.
DI Brook is like his old self. However he does feel an enormous amount of guilt because DS John Noble was passed over for promotion to Detective Inspector as a consequence of the actions of DI Brook and Noble's involvement in them.
This series just keeps getting better and better. This book really is a page turner and I haven't yet read a book by Steven Dunne that I have not loved. As I have said in other reviews on his work, I can't understand why Steven Dunne is not more popular, accepted or publicised within the literary world. This series of books is far better than some of the more established series. The series is just waiting to be made into a television series.
January 27, 2014
Bought this after being accosted in Waterstones by the author in Bradford. I took the plunge and I'm kinda glad I did. The Brook character is interesting - definitely wanted more by the end. I found the body count and twists and turns a bit hard to keep on top of, but overall I enjoyed it and would recommend
September 4, 2016
I started this book hoping to jump back and forth between this one and a few others. But I could never put this one down. I had to know what happened next and the suspense and twists kept me hooked. Another excellent book by Steven Dunne. I can't wait for another one.
June 10, 2013
A complex police procedural
October 28, 2023
Book two finished on a massive cliff hanger, and book 3 nor this one (book 4) even mention it. No follow up, no nothing. Did Dunne forget what he wrote in books 1 and 2? Seems so.
This book is convoluted with a lot of expositions. There are entire pages of only exposition, and "twists" which are rather obvious. Its the worst books so far.
This book is convoluted with a lot of expositions. There are entire pages of only exposition, and "twists" which are rather obvious. Its the worst books so far.
January 5, 2024
Really good story, very complex and lots going on but I did really enjoy it. Thought it was very clever how all the different storylines come together at the end. So many twists and turns I didn't see where it was all going.
March 5, 2017
A real page turner, full of twists.
March 16, 2019
Absolutely loved it. Need to read others now. Kept me interested all the way through
November 13, 2020
Excellent. Some old fashioned sleuthing with plenty of twists and suspects. Keeps you guessing right until the end.
April 16, 2023
4.5stars. Guessing and unraveling til the end
February 20, 2017
yesss Brook did it. what a lot going on. Had my brain fried once or twice trying to keep up but what a read. Excellent and a definite must read
April 29, 2014
When offered a choice from the shortlist for the 2014 East Midlands Book Award, crime was top of my preferences. As a devotee of Stephen Booth's Peak District 'rural noir' setting, I was keen to see what Steven Dunne would make of the city of Derby.
I felt very uncomfortable about the novel to begin with. Despite being the proud owner of two Derbyshire teenagers myself, we're small town not urban and I can't really tell whether the words Dunne puts in the mouths of Josh and Scott are authentic or failed 'down with the kids'. Either way, it jarred, and didn't seem to improve when the focus moved to the police. However, eventually this fell away and I was absorbed by the book and its backwards and forwards timeline.
DI Damen Brook is the hero and has a good deal of back story (I assume from a previous novel) to get to grips with. Some of it was wearisome as the theme of maverick in trouble with his superiors is so well worn... however, that's not really quite the situation here and not what Dunne is getting at. I thought his Sergeant Hendrickson character was splendid and regrettably familiar as the kind of low ranking but influential bully who can destroy careers and lives, and the relationships between the police officers, which tend to be what I like most, were a key part of this story.
The plot was complex and if it hadn't been so absorbing I might have had time to feel it was rather far fetched. The Derby setting seemed to me to involve little more than name checking and could have been any city rather than the psychogeography influencing the story as it does in Stephen Booth's work. In that sense the book was a disappointment. However, it is a perfectly respectable crime novel.
I felt very uncomfortable about the novel to begin with. Despite being the proud owner of two Derbyshire teenagers myself, we're small town not urban and I can't really tell whether the words Dunne puts in the mouths of Josh and Scott are authentic or failed 'down with the kids'. Either way, it jarred, and didn't seem to improve when the focus moved to the police. However, eventually this fell away and I was absorbed by the book and its backwards and forwards timeline.
DI Damen Brook is the hero and has a good deal of back story (I assume from a previous novel) to get to grips with. Some of it was wearisome as the theme of maverick in trouble with his superiors is so well worn... however, that's not really quite the situation here and not what Dunne is getting at. I thought his Sergeant Hendrickson character was splendid and regrettably familiar as the kind of low ranking but influential bully who can destroy careers and lives, and the relationships between the police officers, which tend to be what I like most, were a key part of this story.
The plot was complex and if it hadn't been so absorbing I might have had time to feel it was rather far fetched. The Derby setting seemed to me to involve little more than name checking and could have been any city rather than the psychogeography influencing the story as it does in Stephen Booth's work. In that sense the book was a disappointment. However, it is a perfectly respectable crime novel.
April 21, 2015
I originally read the first of the DI Brook novels in 2013 and loved it. I then picked up the third in the series, realised I had missed a book and went back to read in order. So, now I have finished book 4 and can honestly say they just get better, which is unusual as I am used to series becoming weaker and repetitive as they go on. The books can be read in order or can stand alone, and I think that The Unquiet Grave is actually the most able to stand alone.
The Unquiet Grave is, like all of Steven Dunne’s books, an accomplished piece of writing. The characters are well developed and well rounded and the story is detailed and well thought out. There are enough flaws in the good guys and enough good about the bad guys to make them interesting, and the plot twists are clever and intricate. Add DI Brook into the mix and the twists and turns of this story are enough to keep you guessing right to the end.
However, the thing that I think makes this series stand out for me is the writing itself. The language is varied and the use of technical-speak is enough to be relevant but not so much as to bore or intimidate. There are some incidences of “teen speak” which I find quite jarring – but sadly they are words that one in particular of my teenage sons and his group of friends use daily! So, I’ll accept the jarring street speak as realism.
I realised that I have enjoyed reading the words of the book, not just skimming through the story, and this is, in my opinion, the difference between this book and lots of the other crime thrillers around.
All in all, a great story, well presented, well written and well worth its 5 stars. Looking forward now to the next instalment.
The Unquiet Grave is, like all of Steven Dunne’s books, an accomplished piece of writing. The characters are well developed and well rounded and the story is detailed and well thought out. There are enough flaws in the good guys and enough good about the bad guys to make them interesting, and the plot twists are clever and intricate. Add DI Brook into the mix and the twists and turns of this story are enough to keep you guessing right to the end.
However, the thing that I think makes this series stand out for me is the writing itself. The language is varied and the use of technical-speak is enough to be relevant but not so much as to bore or intimidate. There are some incidences of “teen speak” which I find quite jarring – but sadly they are words that one in particular of my teenage sons and his group of friends use daily! So, I’ll accept the jarring street speak as realism.
I realised that I have enjoyed reading the words of the book, not just skimming through the story, and this is, in my opinion, the difference between this book and lots of the other crime thrillers around.
All in all, a great story, well presented, well written and well worth its 5 stars. Looking forward now to the next instalment.
April 23, 2014
After the first few chapters of 'The Unquiet Grave' I was ready to put it down. Expectation is at least half of what makes a good read and what I thought was going to be a detective novel seemed hell bent on being the next supernatural thriller with mysterious children appearing at the sites of murders and then disappearing like ghosts. Coupled with this was some rather unfortunate teenage interactions, which may well be how the 'youth' of today speak but was irritating nevertheless.
However, I had been given the book on a strong recommendation so persevered and ended up completely drawn in. The story bounces around a fair deal and there are numerous characters but I tend to enjoy this kind of intricate plotting. The main character; Brooks, who has been assigned to the cold case unit after a major screw up is engaging having the usual characteristics of doggedness, obstinacy, dislike of authority, strained family ties and an inability to gain adequate nutrition yet also disliking bad language and being well read. With the story told from several different perspectives including the victims, it keeps you guessing and although I had my suspicions who the perpetrator was, Dunne effectively throws a few red herrings in the story to throw you off. As the reader you are always ahead of the police, having access to multiple narrators and it is interesting to observe the detectives come to the conclusion that what appears to be unrelated cases are connected, that there is a potential serial killer out there and that more than one unsolved case will be resolved by the end. Definitely a good read!
However, I had been given the book on a strong recommendation so persevered and ended up completely drawn in. The story bounces around a fair deal and there are numerous characters but I tend to enjoy this kind of intricate plotting. The main character; Brooks, who has been assigned to the cold case unit after a major screw up is engaging having the usual characteristics of doggedness, obstinacy, dislike of authority, strained family ties and an inability to gain adequate nutrition yet also disliking bad language and being well read. With the story told from several different perspectives including the victims, it keeps you guessing and although I had my suspicions who the perpetrator was, Dunne effectively throws a few red herrings in the story to throw you off. As the reader you are always ahead of the police, having access to multiple narrators and it is interesting to observe the detectives come to the conclusion that what appears to be unrelated cases are connected, that there is a potential serial killer out there and that more than one unsolved case will be resolved by the end. Definitely a good read!
August 21, 2014
"Teases the reader and keeps them hooked until the final twist"
Unquiet Grave is the 4th novel in the DI Damen Brook series and my first exposure to the writer Steven Dunne. It won't be my last, I'll definitely be reading the previous 3 and any future books.
The book takes place over fifty years as DI Brook is assigned to the cold-case unit. Child murders from half a century previously are given a new resonance when it becomes apparent that a significant anniversary is approaching. Will the killer strike again or can DI Brook prevent another tragedy?
The book is a meaty 518 pages and every page is worth it. The book doesn't shy away from difficult questions and has twists and turns right up to the very last page. DI Brook is a compelling and sympathetic character and the secondary characters are similarly well-written, with strong motives and some original characteristics. Brook has a past, and is coming off suspension, and Dunne gives us just enough hints about why that was the so to make me want to read the previous books in the series.
This book was given to me for free by the author as a promotion, with no expectation of a review. However, I can't recommend it highly enough and will be happy to purchase others in the series with my own money.
Unquiet Grave is the 4th novel in the DI Damen Brook series and my first exposure to the writer Steven Dunne. It won't be my last, I'll definitely be reading the previous 3 and any future books.
The book takes place over fifty years as DI Brook is assigned to the cold-case unit. Child murders from half a century previously are given a new resonance when it becomes apparent that a significant anniversary is approaching. Will the killer strike again or can DI Brook prevent another tragedy?
The book is a meaty 518 pages and every page is worth it. The book doesn't shy away from difficult questions and has twists and turns right up to the very last page. DI Brook is a compelling and sympathetic character and the secondary characters are similarly well-written, with strong motives and some original characteristics. Brook has a past, and is coming off suspension, and Dunne gives us just enough hints about why that was the so to make me want to read the previous books in the series.
This book was given to me for free by the author as a promotion, with no expectation of a review. However, I can't recommend it highly enough and will be happy to purchase others in the series with my own money.
May 5, 2015
Yet another brilliantly well written book by the fabulous Steven Dunne.
The Unquiet Grave is the fourth book in the DI Damen Brook series and can easily be read as a stand alone. The fifth book, A Killing Moon will be available to buy on the 7th of May.
As with all of the other 3 books, the author grabs your attention straight from the start. The fourth in the series finds Brook being put on a cold case to do with murders of children starting from as early as 1963. Its not long before Brook starts putting the pieces together and the reader is taken on a fast paced ride with Brook as he tries to solve these senseless killings.
Towards the end of this book I was literally at the edge of my seat and got to say I was quite shocked by a twist I did not see coming that the author managed to squeeze in just before the end. It did leave me feeling quite melancholy for Brook by the end as come on lets face it, he certainly doesn't have the happiest of lives.
The Unquiet Grave is a must read for crime thriller lovers and I for one can not wait for the next one. Luckily I don't have long to wait!
The Unquiet Grave is the fourth book in the DI Damen Brook series and can easily be read as a stand alone. The fifth book, A Killing Moon will be available to buy on the 7th of May.
As with all of the other 3 books, the author grabs your attention straight from the start. The fourth in the series finds Brook being put on a cold case to do with murders of children starting from as early as 1963. Its not long before Brook starts putting the pieces together and the reader is taken on a fast paced ride with Brook as he tries to solve these senseless killings.
Towards the end of this book I was literally at the edge of my seat and got to say I was quite shocked by a twist I did not see coming that the author managed to squeeze in just before the end. It did leave me feeling quite melancholy for Brook by the end as come on lets face it, he certainly doesn't have the happiest of lives.
The Unquiet Grave is a must read for crime thriller lovers and I for one can not wait for the next one. Luckily I don't have long to wait!
July 4, 2015
This is the fourth book in the DI Damien Brook series and I found it a good read. Brook has served his suspension for allowing his daughter to impersonate a police officer in Book 3 but has been despatched to Cold Cases as a punishment. Needless to say, his sharp mind and ability to read the criminal brain mean that, though demoted to the basement, he is still able to see links with another ongoing crime and, presumably, rise again to his proper role. The plot was interesting enough though needing some suspension of disbelief and the characters were credible (apart from the 64 year old woman who was portrayed as being in her dotage!). One annoying aspect was the yoof language spoken by the young teenagers; I've never heard anyone speak like that in Derby. I also found it odd that such precise directions and naming of streets, etc was so prevalent. To a Derbeian this can be useful but I can't imagine what a reader unfamiliar with the city makes of it. All in all, I think this book with its unusual plot and improving style is definitely worth a read. I will soon be reading number 5 in the series.
January 7, 2015
The Unquiet Grave (DI Damen Brook 4) - The best so far from Steven Dunne!
I loved the first three books about this flawed, intelligent, determined detective and this, the 4th story, did not disappoint. It is a really well crafted, complex tale with great characters (some absolutely loathsome), lots of twists and a few red herrings to keep us guessing. I think that reading the first 3 books first would help to understand Brook although this could be read as a stand-alone. Another excellent read - I will be looking forward to book 5 which I think is out later this year. Highly recommended - 5 Stars!
I loved the first three books about this flawed, intelligent, determined detective and this, the 4th story, did not disappoint. It is a really well crafted, complex tale with great characters (some absolutely loathsome), lots of twists and a few red herrings to keep us guessing. I think that reading the first 3 books first would help to understand Brook although this could be read as a stand-alone. Another excellent read - I will be looking forward to book 5 which I think is out later this year. Highly recommended - 5 Stars!
April 9, 2015
After the last book, clearly Damien's career had taken a downward turn..... To the basement. Knee deep in dead files rather than dead bodies? Not at all! Yet another good yarn that entwined the past with current events and makes it hard to tell the goodies from the baddies. This time I really thought I'd followed the clues and sussed out who done it but yet again, Mr D's clever plotting kept unfolding right to the end. Mr D's books are always a good read and this book didn't disappoint. Will eagerly await the newest and hope the time frame of the plots allows for many more 'Brook Books' to come.
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