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Londýn, Anglie, rok 1987. Temný thriller živě zachycuje drsný a nemilosrdný Londýn 80. let a představuje detektiva, který čelí svému prvnímu a nebezpečnému případu.
Město je chladné a plné nástrah.
Jamie Day si své první velké povýšení tvrdě vydřel. Přestěhoval se z klidného přímořského městečka do Londýna a je odhodlaný dokázat, že do metropole patří. Hned první den se musí poprat s hrozivým úkolem – rozčtvrceným tělem mladého muže. Další mrtví mladí muži, zabití pozdě v noci podivně podobným způsobem, začínají přibývat a je zřejmé, že v ulicích řádí sériový vrah…
Město je chladné a plné nástrah.
Jamie Day si své první velké povýšení tvrdě vydřel. Přestěhoval se z klidného přímořského městečka do Londýna a je odhodlaný dokázat, že do metropole patří. Hned první den se musí poprat s hrozivým úkolem – rozčtvrceným tělem mladého muže. Další mrtví mladí muži, zabití pozdě v noci podivně podobným způsobem, začínají přibývat a je zřejmé, že v ulicích řádí sériový vrah…
384 pages, Hardcover
First published July 7, 2026
About the author
Robert Bryndza
50 books7,442 followersRobert Bryndza is an international bestselling author of crime and thriller novels, with more than seven million books sold worldwide. He is best known for the Detective Chief Inspector Erika Foster series, which began with The Girl in the Ice (2016), a global bestseller that sold over 1.5 million English-language copies.
He has since published numerous bestselling novels in the Erika Foster series, as well as the bestselling Kate Marshall series, featuring a former police officer turned private investigator. Both series have achieved international success and been translated into 31 languages.
Born in the U.K, Robert began his career as an actor and playwright before turning to writing. After self-publishing a bestselling series of romantic comedies, he moved into crime fiction and now writes full-time from Slovakia, where he lives with his husband.
For more information, visit www.robertbryndza.com
He has since published numerous bestselling novels in the Erika Foster series, as well as the bestselling Kate Marshall series, featuring a former police officer turned private investigator. Both series have achieved international success and been translated into 31 languages.
Born in the U.K, Robert began his career as an actor and playwright before turning to writing. After self-publishing a bestselling series of romantic comedies, he moved into crime fiction and now writes full-time from Slovakia, where he lives with his husband.
For more information, visit www.robertbryndza.com
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The year is 1987, and Jamie Day is about to begin a new phase of his career after being promoted to London’s Metropolitan Police. It’s a far cry from his previous role as a uniformed cop in a small seaside town where nothing major ever happened.
Day one, and Jamie finds himself first on the scene, after being called to a railway station out of town. The crime was called in by the stationmaster, and it’s the gruesome sight of a dismembered young man that awaits Jamie. However, this won’t be the only one, and Jamie and his new colleagues will have to pull everything out of the hat to find the perpetrator, but the one thing that appears to initially link the victims is that they are all gay.
Besides these horrific crimes, Jamie is finding it difficult to slot into his new role. He’s definitely not used to working such high profile cases, and the rest of this tough and experienced team have worked together for some time, so he’s doing his best to perform to the best of his abilities without stepping on anyone’s toes. Naturally, there’s always one who refuses to help a new colleague settle in, and that comes in the form of Liam, who takes an instant dislike to Jamie.
This is a stand-alone crime thriller, and with Robert Bryndza at the helm, we’re assured a terrific, heart pounding read. It’s a book that is difficult to describe without giving away too much. So I won’t bother. Is it a good, fast, thrilling read? Undoubtedly, and although this is advertised as a stand-alone, I’d love to see Jamie work a few more cases.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Day one, and Jamie finds himself first on the scene, after being called to a railway station out of town. The crime was called in by the stationmaster, and it’s the gruesome sight of a dismembered young man that awaits Jamie. However, this won’t be the only one, and Jamie and his new colleagues will have to pull everything out of the hat to find the perpetrator, but the one thing that appears to initially link the victims is that they are all gay.
Besides these horrific crimes, Jamie is finding it difficult to slot into his new role. He’s definitely not used to working such high profile cases, and the rest of this tough and experienced team have worked together for some time, so he’s doing his best to perform to the best of his abilities without stepping on anyone’s toes. Naturally, there’s always one who refuses to help a new colleague settle in, and that comes in the form of Liam, who takes an instant dislike to Jamie.
This is a stand-alone crime thriller, and with Robert Bryndza at the helm, we’re assured a terrific, heart pounding read. It’s a book that is difficult to describe without giving away too much. So I won’t bother. Is it a good, fast, thrilling read? Undoubtedly, and although this is advertised as a stand-alone, I’d love to see Jamie work a few more cases.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Quiet Kill
by Robert Bryndza is the first book in a new historical police procedural set in London, England during the winter of 1987. Detective Constable Jamie Day is on his way from Suffolk to London the day before he’s supposed to start work when he is paged. There’s a report of a dead body near a train station and he’s supposed to go there. His promotion to the Metropolitan Police is starting a little early.
Jamie finds there’s the dismembered body of a young man at the scene. This becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation with another victim being found soon afterwards. The detectives some realize they may be hunting a serial killer. Working alongside an experienced team, can Jamie prove he belongs while dealing with a high-profile investigation?
Jamie is smart, insightful, and stands up to bullies without being confrontational. He relies on intuition and methodical footwork. He also treats the victims with dignity and respect. However, he is also a people-pleaser and somewhat gullible and too trusting which can cause problems in his job. His colleagues have adequate depth for the first book in the series.
The author does a great job of setting an atmosphere that worked well with the book. The bleak and icy winter worked well with the disturbing murder scenes. He also does a great job of illustrating realistic police work of the times. The lack of computers and cell phones makes a marked difference in speed of communication and data as well as the status of DNA profiling. The AIDS crisis of the times is heavily portrayed and the author captures the fear, ignorance, and tension well. Also highlighted is the 1980s police culture.
Readers of the novel learn who the antagonist is well before the police, but that doesn’t take away from the excellent novel. The scenes with this killer are dark and gritty as they unfold. Additionally, the novel explores systemic police corruption and internal hostility. The author uses the flaws and limitations of the times to increase the suspense and making the investigation feel realistic and high-stakes despite the slower narrative pacing.
Overall, the novel is compelling, dark, and feels authentic. It has a gripping dual perspective between the killer and Jamie that adds psychological suspense. Some scenes are graphic and could be unsettling to some readers. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Raven Street Publishing and Robert Bryndza provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 09, 2026.
------------------------
My 4.38 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Jamie finds there’s the dismembered body of a young man at the scene. This becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation with another victim being found soon afterwards. The detectives some realize they may be hunting a serial killer. Working alongside an experienced team, can Jamie prove he belongs while dealing with a high-profile investigation?
Jamie is smart, insightful, and stands up to bullies without being confrontational. He relies on intuition and methodical footwork. He also treats the victims with dignity and respect. However, he is also a people-pleaser and somewhat gullible and too trusting which can cause problems in his job. His colleagues have adequate depth for the first book in the series.
The author does a great job of setting an atmosphere that worked well with the book. The bleak and icy winter worked well with the disturbing murder scenes. He also does a great job of illustrating realistic police work of the times. The lack of computers and cell phones makes a marked difference in speed of communication and data as well as the status of DNA profiling. The AIDS crisis of the times is heavily portrayed and the author captures the fear, ignorance, and tension well. Also highlighted is the 1980s police culture.
Readers of the novel learn who the antagonist is well before the police, but that doesn’t take away from the excellent novel. The scenes with this killer are dark and gritty as they unfold. Additionally, the novel explores systemic police corruption and internal hostility. The author uses the flaws and limitations of the times to increase the suspense and making the investigation feel realistic and high-stakes despite the slower narrative pacing.
Overall, the novel is compelling, dark, and feels authentic. It has a gripping dual perspective between the killer and Jamie that adds psychological suspense. Some scenes are graphic and could be unsettling to some readers. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Raven Street Publishing and Robert Bryndza provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 09, 2026.
------------------------
My 4.38 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
May 20, 2026
Jamie Day #1
30-11-1987
At Leyton Train Station, an elderly man discovers a dismembered male torso and recently promoted DC Jamie Day is first on the scene. He’s newly transferred from Suffolk Constabulary to Savile Row Station. Another body is also discovered, similarly dismembered and it may not be the last. The varied team led by DCI Harry Dean have a grim inquiry in prospect as it seems they are hunting a very ruthless serial killer.
This is hopefully the start of a new series from Robert Bryndza and is one I really enjoy. First of all, the context of the 1987/8 setting is excellent. Here, there’s a major focus on AIDS with all the accompanying fear, ignorance, and misunderstanding alongside homophobia, sexism and prejudice. The author does a very good job with this and the storytelling is very balanced. In addition, the author creates an excellent London of the 1980s atmosphere, such as the forthcoming changes in the East End with the emergence of Canary Wharf and this provides a good contrast with Jamie’s background in Lowestoft, Suffolk. He really is a bit of a rabbit caught in the headlights but by the end of the book, there’s a strong sense of him fitting in.
The characters are excellent, especially Jamie and there’s good banter between them, not always friendly! When he arrives, he’s thrown in at the deep end, he’s a bit green and naive and definitely makes mistakes but he’s persistent, honest, hard-working and extremely likeable. His boss DCI Harry Dean is a good mentor, he’s a bit gruff but also very likeable as is WPC Tracy Steel who is a very good officer but comes up against the glass ceiling. There is one character in the control room who isn’t so likeable, but maybe he serves to sharpen Jamie up. As for the perpetrator, we know who he is from the start via his point of view and oh boy, that is very dark, gritty and chilling and which it makes my blood run cold. It seems to make for a more intense read having the killers perspective and you hope the net closes in before there are more victims.
This is a tense and suspenseful read, it’s well paced and the writing flows. In places it’s graphic but that is integral to the storyline.
Overall, this is another good read from Robert Bryndza and I look forward to reading more of this team from n future.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Raven Street Publishing for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
30-11-1987
At Leyton Train Station, an elderly man discovers a dismembered male torso and recently promoted DC Jamie Day is first on the scene. He’s newly transferred from Suffolk Constabulary to Savile Row Station. Another body is also discovered, similarly dismembered and it may not be the last. The varied team led by DCI Harry Dean have a grim inquiry in prospect as it seems they are hunting a very ruthless serial killer.
This is hopefully the start of a new series from Robert Bryndza and is one I really enjoy. First of all, the context of the 1987/8 setting is excellent. Here, there’s a major focus on AIDS with all the accompanying fear, ignorance, and misunderstanding alongside homophobia, sexism and prejudice. The author does a very good job with this and the storytelling is very balanced. In addition, the author creates an excellent London of the 1980s atmosphere, such as the forthcoming changes in the East End with the emergence of Canary Wharf and this provides a good contrast with Jamie’s background in Lowestoft, Suffolk. He really is a bit of a rabbit caught in the headlights but by the end of the book, there’s a strong sense of him fitting in.
The characters are excellent, especially Jamie and there’s good banter between them, not always friendly! When he arrives, he’s thrown in at the deep end, he’s a bit green and naive and definitely makes mistakes but he’s persistent, honest, hard-working and extremely likeable. His boss DCI Harry Dean is a good mentor, he’s a bit gruff but also very likeable as is WPC Tracy Steel who is a very good officer but comes up against the glass ceiling. There is one character in the control room who isn’t so likeable, but maybe he serves to sharpen Jamie up. As for the perpetrator, we know who he is from the start via his point of view and oh boy, that is very dark, gritty and chilling and which it makes my blood run cold. It seems to make for a more intense read having the killers perspective and you hope the net closes in before there are more victims.
This is a tense and suspenseful read, it’s well paced and the writing flows. In places it’s graphic but that is integral to the storyline.
Overall, this is another good read from Robert Bryndza and I look forward to reading more of this team from n future.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Raven Street Publishing for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
July 1, 2026
It’s winter 1987, set amongst the fear of AIDS, and homophobia. New Detective, Jamie Day is on his way to London from his small seaside town, to begin his new career with the Metropolitan Police. On his way, he receives a call telling him that a body has been found, meaning he has to start his first shift, a day earlier than planned. Once he arrives at the destination, he finds a dismembered, male body, hidden by the bins of a train station. New to London, Jamie is soon thrust into a major murder investigation, involving young, male victims, being found all over London.
This is the first book in a new series, and man, I CANNOT wait, to read more. This was my first Robert Bryndza book, and I had heard tons of praise for this author, which after reading this very tense and suspenseful police procedural, I can 100% fully agree. This was addictive, atmospheric and kept me awake until the early hours, and can highly recommend.
5 ⭐️
Thanks to Robert Bryndza, Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley, for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
Available: 7 July 2026
This is the first book in a new series, and man, I CANNOT wait, to read more. This was my first Robert Bryndza book, and I had heard tons of praise for this author, which after reading this very tense and suspenseful police procedural, I can 100% fully agree. This was addictive, atmospheric and kept me awake until the early hours, and can highly recommend.
5 ⭐️
Thanks to Robert Bryndza, Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley, for providing me with this free ARC, with which I leave a voluntary review.
Available: 7 July 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Bryndza has once again created a great main character. It’s Jamie Day’s first day on the job as a DC in London. He’s literally just arrived from Suffolk, hasn’t even made it to the office, when he’s called to the scene of a dismembered body at a train station.
I liked that the story dates to 1987. No cell phones, GPS, internet or any of the modern conveniences. The office’s fax machine is just a few weeks old and Jamie is the only one using it. Figuring out a MISPER’s identity means calling around. Also, 1987 is when AIDS was really in the public eye, with all the prejudice and fear coloring public perception.
It's always interesting to read the first in a series, to be introduced to the team. Here, the team is also being introduced to Jamie and it’s not all happy families as egos come out to play. Bryndza does a great job of describing a character in just a few sentences. Jamie’s DI, Harry, had been a Met officer for 25 years. “Harry had heard a saying that you can age like vinegar or wine. He’d chosen to do the latter.”
Bryndza’s MO is to give the reader insights the investigative team aren’t privy to. The suspense is watching them figure it out who the killer is. The book moves at a nice brisk pace as there are more murders.
This is the opposite of a cozy mystery and readers should be aware of trigger warnings, including violent sex scenes.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
I liked that the story dates to 1987. No cell phones, GPS, internet or any of the modern conveniences. The office’s fax machine is just a few weeks old and Jamie is the only one using it. Figuring out a MISPER’s identity means calling around. Also, 1987 is when AIDS was really in the public eye, with all the prejudice and fear coloring public perception.
It's always interesting to read the first in a series, to be introduced to the team. Here, the team is also being introduced to Jamie and it’s not all happy families as egos come out to play. Bryndza does a great job of describing a character in just a few sentences. Jamie’s DI, Harry, had been a Met officer for 25 years. “Harry had heard a saying that you can age like vinegar or wine. He’d chosen to do the latter.”
Bryndza’s MO is to give the reader insights the investigative team aren’t privy to. The suspense is watching them figure it out who the killer is. The book moves at a nice brisk pace as there are more murders.
This is the opposite of a cozy mystery and readers should be aware of trigger warnings, including violent sex scenes.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
July 17, 2026
EXCERPT: . . . she saw what looked like a pair of bare feet protruding from a thin sleeping bag against the back wall of the living room.
'Is that someone homeless?' asked Caroline, noticing at the same time.
Donna stepped over a low piece of the collapsed front wall and moved closer. The charred remains of the rafters cast the interior in a gloom. In the shadow of the half-collapsed back, Donna could see that the person's legs weren't sticking out from a sleeping bag; it was a thick blue plastic bag. When she nudged it with her foot, the plastic neck of the bag opened, revealing . . . . '
ABOUT 'THE QUIET KILL': Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
As winter deepens, young men are being killed late at night across London, their bodies discovered in eerily similar circumstances. The detectives soon realise they may be hunting a serial killer.
Working alongside a tough and experienced team, Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
MY THOUGHTS: More intriguing than thrilling IMHO, but a great start to a new series from one of my favorite authors.
I love the 1987 setting - no mobile phones - and lots of good old-fashioned detecting.
Jamie is a fresh-faced and ambitious newly minted detective who soon finds himself a little out of his depth. He is intelligent and determined, but also rather naive.
A compelling and rewarding read. I am looking forward to the next in this series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheQuietKill #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: ROBERT BRYNDZA was born in the UK and lived in America and Canada before settling in Slovakia with his Slovak husband Ján.
When he's not writing Rob is learning Slovak, trying to train two crazy dogs, or watching Grand Designs all in the hope that hell be able to understand his mother-in-law, build his dream house, and get the dogs to listen.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Raven Street Publishing via Netgalley for providing a DRC of The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza for review. This review reflects my reading experience and all opinions expressed are my own personal opinions.
'Is that someone homeless?' asked Caroline, noticing at the same time.
Donna stepped over a low piece of the collapsed front wall and moved closer. The charred remains of the rafters cast the interior in a gloom. In the shadow of the half-collapsed back, Donna could see that the person's legs weren't sticking out from a sleeping bag; it was a thick blue plastic bag. When she nudged it with her foot, the plastic neck of the bag opened, revealing . . . . '
ABOUT 'THE QUIET KILL': Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
As winter deepens, young men are being killed late at night across London, their bodies discovered in eerily similar circumstances. The detectives soon realise they may be hunting a serial killer.
Working alongside a tough and experienced team, Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
MY THOUGHTS: More intriguing than thrilling IMHO, but a great start to a new series from one of my favorite authors.
I love the 1987 setting - no mobile phones - and lots of good old-fashioned detecting.
Jamie is a fresh-faced and ambitious newly minted detective who soon finds himself a little out of his depth. He is intelligent and determined, but also rather naive.
A compelling and rewarding read. I am looking forward to the next in this series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#TheQuietKill #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: ROBERT BRYNDZA was born in the UK and lived in America and Canada before settling in Slovakia with his Slovak husband Ján.
When he's not writing Rob is learning Slovak, trying to train two crazy dogs, or watching Grand Designs all in the hope that hell be able to understand his mother-in-law, build his dream house, and get the dogs to listen.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Raven Street Publishing via Netgalley for providing a DRC of The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza for review. This review reflects my reading experience and all opinions expressed are my own personal opinions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza
Synopsis /
Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
As winter deepens, young men are being killed late at night across London, their bodies discovered in eerily similar circumstances. The detectives soon realise they may be hunting a serial killer.
Working alongside a tough and experienced team, Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and author, Robert Bryndza for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
As a long time fan of Robert Bryndza's fiction, I was thrilled to be reading his latest, The Quiet Kill.
Even more exciting, it's the start of a brand new historical crime series which introduces the reader to Detective Constable Jamie Day.
In a major departure from his previous works, The Quiet Kill shifts from the contemporary settings of the Erika Foster and Kate Marshall books, to a series that places the reader firmly on the ground of 1987 London. There are no modern forensics in 1980s London, it's down to old school instincts and boots on the ground investigating.
The plot follows DC Jamie Day, who has just transferred to the Met Police after years of working in a quiet coastal town.
The story opens as the rookie DC is travelling to London from his home county of Suffolk. Arriving at his lodgings, Day barely has time to unload his luggage before receiving a call to attend a crime scene at Layton Station in East London. Upon arrival, he's met by the Station Master who informed him that while performing his usual rounds of the station he came upon the grim discovery of a dismembered body.
As the story continues, more young men are found dead under eerily similar circumstances across London, and DC Day and his new team realise they are hunting a calculated serial killer.
My first instinct was to rebel at this change in scenery. This reader is used to the seasoned, battle-hardened protagonists, DCI Erika Foster and Kate Marshall, whose mere presence commands a room. By contrast, DC Day is a rookie, a naïve 'outsider' learning how to be a detective while trying to survive the toxic working environment of the 1980s Met Police. Portrayed as out of his depth and seriously questioning his decision to apply for this position. However, it's his vulnerability and less experienced nature that make him appear as a more realistic protagonist and someone with whom the reader wills to succeed. Ultimately, it was the combination of well-crafted characters, a deeply atmospheric mystery, and razor-sharp writing that finally won me over.
In what this reader has come to realise is Bryndza's signature style, The Quiet Kill features short, punchy chapters that consistently end on cliffhangers, making it an addictive, "just-one-more-chapter" experience.
With thanks to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the very talented Robert Bryndza 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 09, 2026.
Synopsis /
Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
As winter deepens, young men are being killed late at night across London, their bodies discovered in eerily similar circumstances. The detectives soon realise they may be hunting a serial killer.
Working alongside a tough and experienced team, Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and author, Robert Bryndza for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
As a long time fan of Robert Bryndza's fiction, I was thrilled to be reading his latest, The Quiet Kill.
Even more exciting, it's the start of a brand new historical crime series which introduces the reader to Detective Constable Jamie Day.
In a major departure from his previous works, The Quiet Kill shifts from the contemporary settings of the Erika Foster and Kate Marshall books, to a series that places the reader firmly on the ground of 1987 London. There are no modern forensics in 1980s London, it's down to old school instincts and boots on the ground investigating.
The plot follows DC Jamie Day, who has just transferred to the Met Police after years of working in a quiet coastal town.
The story opens as the rookie DC is travelling to London from his home county of Suffolk. Arriving at his lodgings, Day barely has time to unload his luggage before receiving a call to attend a crime scene at Layton Station in East London. Upon arrival, he's met by the Station Master who informed him that while performing his usual rounds of the station he came upon the grim discovery of a dismembered body.
As the story continues, more young men are found dead under eerily similar circumstances across London, and DC Day and his new team realise they are hunting a calculated serial killer.
My first instinct was to rebel at this change in scenery. This reader is used to the seasoned, battle-hardened protagonists, DCI Erika Foster and Kate Marshall, whose mere presence commands a room. By contrast, DC Day is a rookie, a naïve 'outsider' learning how to be a detective while trying to survive the toxic working environment of the 1980s Met Police. Portrayed as out of his depth and seriously questioning his decision to apply for this position. However, it's his vulnerability and less experienced nature that make him appear as a more realistic protagonist and someone with whom the reader wills to succeed. Ultimately, it was the combination of well-crafted characters, a deeply atmospheric mystery, and razor-sharp writing that finally won me over.
In what this reader has come to realise is Bryndza's signature style, The Quiet Kill features short, punchy chapters that consistently end on cliffhangers, making it an addictive, "just-one-more-chapter" experience.
With thanks to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the very talented Robert Bryndza 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 09, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Robert Bryndza, and Raven Street Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Robert Bryndza has long established himself as one of the most dependable and accomplished voices in modern crime fiction. Whether through his bestselling Erika Foster novels, the gripping Kate Marshall series, or his standalone thrillers, Bryndza consistently delivers intricate investigations, compelling characters, and expertly crafted suspense. With this latest release, he takes readers back to the late 1980s and introduces an entirely new detective in what promises to be another standout series. Atmospheric, intelligent, and relentlessly engaging, this is a police procedural that showcases Bryndza at the height of his storytelling powers.
Winter, 1987. Detective Constable Jamie Day arrives in London eager to prove himself after time policing in a small community. Fresh-faced and ambitious, he expects challenges, but nothing prepares him for what awaits on his very first day. The discovery of a brutally dismembered body thrusts him into the centre of a major murder investigation that quickly escalates when a second victim is found. As panic spreads across the city and sensational headlines dominate the newspapers, it becomes increasingly clear that a serial killer is stalking London’s streets. Working alongside a seasoned investigative team, Day must learn quickly, navigate the pressures of big-city policing, and help stop a killer before more lives are lost.
Bryndza excels at constructing layered investigations, and this novel is no exception. The mystery unfolds with precision, revealing clues and connections at exactly the right moments while never surrendering too much information. Every lead raises fresh questions, every discovery deepens the intrigue, and every chapter propels the reader further into the darkness of the case. The pacing is exceptional throughout, balancing procedural detail with mounting suspense and ensuring there is never a lull in the narrative. The short, sharp chapters make the story almost impossible to put down.
Jamie Day emerges as an outstanding new protagonist. Thrust into unfamiliar surroundings and under immense pressure, he combines intelligence, determination, and vulnerability in ways that make him immediately relatable. Watching him adapt to the demands of the Metropolitan Police while confronting a complex and horrifying investigation creates a compelling emotional core that strengthens the novel at every turn. Bryndza surrounds him with an equally strong supporting cast, each adding depth, personality, and authenticity to the story while laying the groundwork for future installments.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its unpredictability. Bryndza remains a master of misdirection, carefully controlling the flow of information and keeping readers perpetually off balance. Just when the investigation appears to be moving toward clarity, another revelation emerges to challenge assumptions and raise the stakes even higher. The tension builds steadily throughout, culminating in a conclusion that is both surprising and deeply satisfying.
As with Bryndza’s finest work, this is a thriller that effortlessly captures the reader’s attention and refuses to let go. Rich in atmosphere, sharp in execution, and driven by a superb central mystery, it is a stellar introduction to Jamie Day and an outstanding beginning to what should become another highly successful series. Fans of crime fiction, police procedurals, and serial killer investigations will find themselves completely engrossed from the opening pages to the final twist.
Kudos, Mr. Bryndza, for taking us back in time but never sacrificing the quality of the policing.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Robert Bryndza has long established himself as one of the most dependable and accomplished voices in modern crime fiction. Whether through his bestselling Erika Foster novels, the gripping Kate Marshall series, or his standalone thrillers, Bryndza consistently delivers intricate investigations, compelling characters, and expertly crafted suspense. With this latest release, he takes readers back to the late 1980s and introduces an entirely new detective in what promises to be another standout series. Atmospheric, intelligent, and relentlessly engaging, this is a police procedural that showcases Bryndza at the height of his storytelling powers.
Winter, 1987. Detective Constable Jamie Day arrives in London eager to prove himself after time policing in a small community. Fresh-faced and ambitious, he expects challenges, but nothing prepares him for what awaits on his very first day. The discovery of a brutally dismembered body thrusts him into the centre of a major murder investigation that quickly escalates when a second victim is found. As panic spreads across the city and sensational headlines dominate the newspapers, it becomes increasingly clear that a serial killer is stalking London’s streets. Working alongside a seasoned investigative team, Day must learn quickly, navigate the pressures of big-city policing, and help stop a killer before more lives are lost.
Bryndza excels at constructing layered investigations, and this novel is no exception. The mystery unfolds with precision, revealing clues and connections at exactly the right moments while never surrendering too much information. Every lead raises fresh questions, every discovery deepens the intrigue, and every chapter propels the reader further into the darkness of the case. The pacing is exceptional throughout, balancing procedural detail with mounting suspense and ensuring there is never a lull in the narrative. The short, sharp chapters make the story almost impossible to put down.
Jamie Day emerges as an outstanding new protagonist. Thrust into unfamiliar surroundings and under immense pressure, he combines intelligence, determination, and vulnerability in ways that make him immediately relatable. Watching him adapt to the demands of the Metropolitan Police while confronting a complex and horrifying investigation creates a compelling emotional core that strengthens the novel at every turn. Bryndza surrounds him with an equally strong supporting cast, each adding depth, personality, and authenticity to the story while laying the groundwork for future installments.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its unpredictability. Bryndza remains a master of misdirection, carefully controlling the flow of information and keeping readers perpetually off balance. Just when the investigation appears to be moving toward clarity, another revelation emerges to challenge assumptions and raise the stakes even higher. The tension builds steadily throughout, culminating in a conclusion that is both surprising and deeply satisfying.
As with Bryndza’s finest work, this is a thriller that effortlessly captures the reader’s attention and refuses to let go. Rich in atmosphere, sharp in execution, and driven by a superb central mystery, it is a stellar introduction to Jamie Day and an outstanding beginning to what should become another highly successful series. Fans of crime fiction, police procedurals, and serial killer investigations will find themselves completely engrossed from the opening pages to the final twist.
Kudos, Mr. Bryndza, for taking us back in time but never sacrificing the quality of the policing.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
July 31, 2026
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE QUIET KILL (Detective Jamie Day Book #1) by Robert Bryndzna is the beginning of a new murder mystery series set in 1987 London and featuring a newly minted detective from a small English seaside town thrown into a big city murder investigation with an already cohesive group of seasoned detectives. I was excited to dive into this chilling criminal murder investigation set in the 1980s with a new group of characters from one of my favorite authors and I was not disappointed.
Detective Jamie Day is on his way to his new position as a plain clothes detective in London when he is detoured to go to the location of a discovered dismembered body. Immediately thrown into a major murder investigation, Jamie knows he must prove himself, but he is having trouble fitting into the already tight group of murder detectives. DCI Harry Dean takes him under his wing and helps him navigate his new position, colleagues, and the big city.
Dismembered bodies of young gay men continue to be discovered, and the detectives soon realize they have a serial killer in London. Can Jamie help find the killer and prove he belongs in his new job to his colleagues?
This is a fast-paced, intense introduction to a new group of characters from Mr. Bryndza that kept me engrossed in not only the gritty murder mystery, but also the differences in investigation techniques and technologies from the 1980s. It does not seem that long ago to me, but the differences in criminal investigations and technology have been immense in the last 40 to 50 years. While the killer is known in this story, the chase to catch him is what pulls you in. It is an intense, dark story that highlights the fear and ignorance of AIDS and the immergence of a more open gay culture in 1980s London. The investigative plot is realistic and leads to a satisfying conclusion. I am looking forward to seeing how these characters progress in future books in the series.
I highly recommend this suspenseful start to a new murder mystery series!
THE QUIET KILL (Detective Jamie Day Book #1) by Robert Bryndzna is the beginning of a new murder mystery series set in 1987 London and featuring a newly minted detective from a small English seaside town thrown into a big city murder investigation with an already cohesive group of seasoned detectives. I was excited to dive into this chilling criminal murder investigation set in the 1980s with a new group of characters from one of my favorite authors and I was not disappointed.
Detective Jamie Day is on his way to his new position as a plain clothes detective in London when he is detoured to go to the location of a discovered dismembered body. Immediately thrown into a major murder investigation, Jamie knows he must prove himself, but he is having trouble fitting into the already tight group of murder detectives. DCI Harry Dean takes him under his wing and helps him navigate his new position, colleagues, and the big city.
Dismembered bodies of young gay men continue to be discovered, and the detectives soon realize they have a serial killer in London. Can Jamie help find the killer and prove he belongs in his new job to his colleagues?
This is a fast-paced, intense introduction to a new group of characters from Mr. Bryndza that kept me engrossed in not only the gritty murder mystery, but also the differences in investigation techniques and technologies from the 1980s. It does not seem that long ago to me, but the differences in criminal investigations and technology have been immense in the last 40 to 50 years. While the killer is known in this story, the chase to catch him is what pulls you in. It is an intense, dark story that highlights the fear and ignorance of AIDS and the immergence of a more open gay culture in 1980s London. The investigative plot is realistic and leads to a satisfying conclusion. I am looking forward to seeing how these characters progress in future books in the series.
I highly recommend this suspenseful start to a new murder mystery series!
July 7, 2026
Ooooooh, this was an excellent one! It's the first of a new series featuring Jamie, a rookie detective joining a London based team and I surely will follow every step of Jamie's adventures in the future.
The pacing is quick, the writing sharp and the setting of London in 1987 is just perfect.
I got engulfed in an "old skool" vibe, not only because we are in 1987, but also because it reads as a procedural of that time. I certainly was reminded of The Mermaids Singing by Val McDermid and I'll consider this high praise.
One trigger warning though: just as the first book in the Tony Hill series, this one also has some gruesome scenes. But nevertheless, I raced through the pages to know how it would end.
If you are looking for a fast paced procedural with a very likable protagonist, do not look any further: this is it.
A very heartfelt thank you to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the author for allowing me to be an early reader. All opinions are my own.
The pacing is quick, the writing sharp and the setting of London in 1987 is just perfect.
I got engulfed in an "old skool" vibe, not only because we are in 1987, but also because it reads as a procedural of that time. I certainly was reminded of The Mermaids Singing by Val McDermid and I'll consider this high praise.
One trigger warning though: just as the first book in the Tony Hill series, this one also has some gruesome scenes. But nevertheless, I raced through the pages to know how it would end.
If you are looking for a fast paced procedural with a very likable protagonist, do not look any further: this is it.
A very heartfelt thank you to NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the author for allowing me to be an early reader. All opinions are my own.
July 2, 2026
Another new series from a favourite crime author. Robert Bryndza is the author of one of my favourite police procedural series in the Erika Foster books and is is an author that I can always count on for an addictive, fast paced story that takes you away from the real world for a while. The Quiet Kill was an easy 5 star book for me, I cannot wait for more Jamie.
One of the things I loved about this story was its setting and time period. London in 1987. No mobile phones, faxes are being used, phone boxes and pagers are everywhere and people actually got their news from the newspapers. For the police it was all about talking to people, visiting the homes and workplaces to try to find the evidence. Jamie Day is a newly promoted detective, moving to London at 25 years old for a new role and a fresh start. He is thrown into the spotlight immediately when he is called to a crime scene where a dismembered body has been found. It is the first of many while he tries to find the killer with his new teammates.
If you have read this author before then you will know that he doesn’t hold back on details of the crimes or the crime scenes. It is not over the top, it is realistic and really shows the depravity of the killer and the tragedy of the victims.
If you love a good police investigation, a serial killer on the streets of London, then I highly recommend you read not only this book but Robert Bryndzas other incredible books.
Thank you so much to Raven Street Publishing for allowing me to read this early.
One of the things I loved about this story was its setting and time period. London in 1987. No mobile phones, faxes are being used, phone boxes and pagers are everywhere and people actually got their news from the newspapers. For the police it was all about talking to people, visiting the homes and workplaces to try to find the evidence. Jamie Day is a newly promoted detective, moving to London at 25 years old for a new role and a fresh start. He is thrown into the spotlight immediately when he is called to a crime scene where a dismembered body has been found. It is the first of many while he tries to find the killer with his new teammates.
If you have read this author before then you will know that he doesn’t hold back on details of the crimes or the crime scenes. It is not over the top, it is realistic and really shows the depravity of the killer and the tragedy of the victims.
If you love a good police investigation, a serial killer on the streets of London, then I highly recommend you read not only this book but Robert Bryndzas other incredible books.
Thank you so much to Raven Street Publishing for allowing me to read this early.
September 13, 2026
The book takes place during a cold winter in 1987 London. It begins on a new detective's first shift, where he faces a massive culture shock after moving from a quiet seaside town. Throughout the investigation, he has to work without mobile phones, relying entirely on landlines and payphones.
The story mentions popular music and TV shows from the time, while capturing the real-world fear of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the old-school prejudices within the police force. The main character is kind-hearted and sharp. Because you see into the killer's mind early on, it turns the story into a tense game of chase. The ending felt a bit rushed, but I liked the book and will definitely read the next one in the series.
The story mentions popular music and TV shows from the time, while capturing the real-world fear of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the old-school prejudices within the police force. The main character is kind-hearted and sharp. Because you see into the killer's mind early on, it turns the story into a tense game of chase. The ending felt a bit rushed, but I liked the book and will definitely read the next one in the series.
July 20, 2026
The start of a thrilling new crime series from Robert Bryndza, the multi-million bestselling author of the Detective Erika Foster and P.I. Kate Marshall series, both are great series, and this new series starts of well.
Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world. Especially in the early 80's, all the gay clubs, the very huge worries of aids and HIV. I think a warning should go out at this is a stronger than his over two series. But remember this is London in the 80's.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Every character fits in this story perfectly, the pace is good, and the feel of the 80's is all around, some great leads and a strong, powerful, well paced, gritty story
Four stars for me
Winter, 1987. Detective Jamie Day arrives in London determined to prove himself. After years policing a quiet seaside town, his promotion to the Metropolitan Police feels like the opportunity he has been waiting for.
But the capital is a very different world. Especially in the early 80's, all the gay clubs, the very huge worries of aids and HIV. I think a warning should go out at this is a stronger than his over two series. But remember this is London in the 80's.
On his first day in plain clothes, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left in a dark corner of the city. What should have been a routine first shift quickly becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Every character fits in this story perfectly, the pace is good, and the feel of the 80's is all around, some great leads and a strong, powerful, well paced, gritty story
Four stars for me
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
On a chilly, dreary winter morning in 1987, Detective James “Jamie” Day is headed to work for his first day on the job in London. He’s recently been promoted to the murder squad of the Metropolitan Police, having left his small, seaside town for London. He comes upon a gruesome discovery: a dismembered corpse in a bag at the train station. Welcome to the big city, Jamie Day.
This turns out to be the first of in a series of similar murders, most involving gay men. This was the era when London was the epicenter of the UK’s AIDS crisis. There was a stigma against gay men, and the government attempted to counter the fear by launching a campaign to educate the public about the disease. Throughout the book, Jamie and his police colleagues seem, for the most part, to be highly professional both in public and in private when dealing with the subject. They are highly conscious of public opinion and are protective of the victims’ identities and private information.
Almost from the onset, the reader becomes aware of the identity of the killer. We get a bird’s-eye view of him in action, and the question becomes how and when will he slip up and be caught?
The focus also is on Jamie, the newcomer to the murder squad, how his fellow officers treat him, how he handles himself in the field, and how he relates to the well-to-do family in his bedsit outside the city. He’s not a rookie officer, but he’s out of his element in London. He has good instincts, however, and he learns quickly. Even when mistake lands him in hot water, he recovers and get back in the good graces of his boss.
Bryndza is a master not only at police procedurals but at creating suspense and interesting characters. Jamie Day is a likeable, interesting character, a fellow with ideals and principle. He sees that some of his colleagues who have “been around the block” have learned to take some rather iffy deals to solve cases and make arrests. Having gone through an experience that got him in trouble, it’s unlikely that he will follow suit, it’s likely that he will do his utmost to keep his nose clean. Here’s hoping that Jamie Day will be featured in more novels in the future.
Due to the subject matter, The Quiet Kill may not be a book for every reader. I found the characters, particularly Jamie, to be quite well written. I also appreciated Rob Bryndza’s handling of the subject of HIV/AIDS and of the gay community.
I received a digital copy of The Quiet Kill as an ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks to NetGalley,
And Raven Street Publishing.
4 stars
This turns out to be the first of in a series of similar murders, most involving gay men. This was the era when London was the epicenter of the UK’s AIDS crisis. There was a stigma against gay men, and the government attempted to counter the fear by launching a campaign to educate the public about the disease. Throughout the book, Jamie and his police colleagues seem, for the most part, to be highly professional both in public and in private when dealing with the subject. They are highly conscious of public opinion and are protective of the victims’ identities and private information.
Almost from the onset, the reader becomes aware of the identity of the killer. We get a bird’s-eye view of him in action, and the question becomes how and when will he slip up and be caught?
The focus also is on Jamie, the newcomer to the murder squad, how his fellow officers treat him, how he handles himself in the field, and how he relates to the well-to-do family in his bedsit outside the city. He’s not a rookie officer, but he’s out of his element in London. He has good instincts, however, and he learns quickly. Even when mistake lands him in hot water, he recovers and get back in the good graces of his boss.
Bryndza is a master not only at police procedurals but at creating suspense and interesting characters. Jamie Day is a likeable, interesting character, a fellow with ideals and principle. He sees that some of his colleagues who have “been around the block” have learned to take some rather iffy deals to solve cases and make arrests. Having gone through an experience that got him in trouble, it’s unlikely that he will follow suit, it’s likely that he will do his utmost to keep his nose clean. Here’s hoping that Jamie Day will be featured in more novels in the future.
Due to the subject matter, The Quiet Kill may not be a book for every reader. I found the characters, particularly Jamie, to be quite well written. I also appreciated Rob Bryndza’s handling of the subject of HIV/AIDS and of the gay community.
I received a digital copy of The Quiet Kill as an ARC. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Thanks to NetGalley,
And Raven Street Publishing.
4 stars
October 20, 2026
A estreia de uma nova saga do autor, editada este ano, onde nos apresenta o detetive Jamie Day, de 25 anos. Um rapaz que vem do campo, tem uma grande ligação com a sua mãe e com a sua irmã e que está marcado pela morte do pai há 18 meses atrás.
Sinto que o autor foi mais sombrio, mais brutal, duro e descritivo, o que me apraz. Espero que a sua ideia para esta nova série seja trilhar este caminho.
Também adorei a ambientação nos anos 80, onde vemos retratados temas como a força policial mais dura, algo preconceituosa, cheia de jargões, o tabu da homossexuais, a Sida, assunto quase proibido e sentença de morte, quase só em falar dela.
✨️Neste livro ao fim de meia dúzia de capítulos, o autor diz-nos quem é o criminoso. Não muito habitual, mas não desgosto quando tal acontece, pois para mim, permite uma construção muito mais profunda do criminoso e ajuda-nos a entrar na sua mente. E claro, depois assistimos a um todo jogo do gato e do rato.
Sinto que o autor foi mais sombrio, mais brutal, duro e descritivo, o que me apraz. Espero que a sua ideia para esta nova série seja trilhar este caminho.
Também adorei a ambientação nos anos 80, onde vemos retratados temas como a força policial mais dura, algo preconceituosa, cheia de jargões, o tabu da homossexuais, a Sida, assunto quase proibido e sentença de morte, quase só em falar dela.
✨️Neste livro ao fim de meia dúzia de capítulos, o autor diz-nos quem é o criminoso. Não muito habitual, mas não desgosto quando tal acontece, pois para mim, permite uma construção muito mais profunda do criminoso e ajuda-nos a entrar na sua mente. E claro, depois assistimos a um todo jogo do gato e do rato.
October 22, 2026
A new series from Robert Bryndza! As a long-time avid follower of both his Detective Erika Foster and Kate Marshall series (and his standalone Fear the Silence), I couldn't wait to read it!
It's December 1987 and Jamie Day has just been promoted from a uniform police role in his home county of Suffolk, to a detective position in a MET Murder Team based in central London. He's driving into the capital to begin his new post when he recieves a call to attend a crime scene - a dismembered male body has been discovered near a minor tube station. It's a quick learning curve for Jamie, but his insightful mind and affable nature quickly impress his new boss, D.C.I. Harry Dean. His collegues present more of a challenge, as former vice-squad officer D.C. Liam Cole takes against him from the outset, and it transpires that W.P.C. Tracy Steel, despite her outwardly welcoming attitude, had hoped to be appointed to his position.
The late 1980s setting allows author Robert Bryndza to create a narrative in which the investigating police have only limited forensic resources (there's a reference to having "heard of" DNA) and none of the technological equipment - GPS, widespread CCTV, digital crime databases and even mobile phones - that are an integral feature of policing in the 21st century. The crimes themselves are also distinctly of the time - a series of gay men are found brutally killed, their bodies defiled, in an era when the AIDS virus was at its height and there was widespread and unchecked homophobia and misunderstanding both in the police force and in the wider community.
In parallel with the police procedural narrative, a frightening series of chapters told from the killer's perspective reveal the clever "honey trap" he uses to find suitable victims and the remorseless manner in which he violates and ultimately kills these men.
I found the character of D.C. Jamie Day immediately sympathetic. As a straight white male, he's not a direct target of the casual racism, homophobia and misogyny that exist in the police force, yet recognises that they exist and does his best to undertake his duties in a fair and inclusive way. Several of the supporting characters are less likeable than others, but I felt that they represented a realistic representation of what would have existed in late 80s London. While instantly recognisable to a modern reader, the London setting creates a nostalgic time capsule of what life was like in the capital 40 years ago, and how much things have changed over that time.
I'd highly recommend The Quiet Kill to all readers of contemporary crime fiction, including existing Robert Bryndza fans and those who are yet to discover his body of work. I look forward to future instalments in the Detective Jamie Day series, including The Burning Lie, due for publication in 2027!
My thanks to the author, Robert Bryndza, publisher Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title.
It's December 1987 and Jamie Day has just been promoted from a uniform police role in his home county of Suffolk, to a detective position in a MET Murder Team based in central London. He's driving into the capital to begin his new post when he recieves a call to attend a crime scene - a dismembered male body has been discovered near a minor tube station. It's a quick learning curve for Jamie, but his insightful mind and affable nature quickly impress his new boss, D.C.I. Harry Dean. His collegues present more of a challenge, as former vice-squad officer D.C. Liam Cole takes against him from the outset, and it transpires that W.P.C. Tracy Steel, despite her outwardly welcoming attitude, had hoped to be appointed to his position.
The late 1980s setting allows author Robert Bryndza to create a narrative in which the investigating police have only limited forensic resources (there's a reference to having "heard of" DNA) and none of the technological equipment - GPS, widespread CCTV, digital crime databases and even mobile phones - that are an integral feature of policing in the 21st century. The crimes themselves are also distinctly of the time - a series of gay men are found brutally killed, their bodies defiled, in an era when the AIDS virus was at its height and there was widespread and unchecked homophobia and misunderstanding both in the police force and in the wider community.
In parallel with the police procedural narrative, a frightening series of chapters told from the killer's perspective reveal the clever "honey trap" he uses to find suitable victims and the remorseless manner in which he violates and ultimately kills these men.
I found the character of D.C. Jamie Day immediately sympathetic. As a straight white male, he's not a direct target of the casual racism, homophobia and misogyny that exist in the police force, yet recognises that they exist and does his best to undertake his duties in a fair and inclusive way. Several of the supporting characters are less likeable than others, but I felt that they represented a realistic representation of what would have existed in late 80s London. While instantly recognisable to a modern reader, the London setting creates a nostalgic time capsule of what life was like in the capital 40 years ago, and how much things have changed over that time.
I'd highly recommend The Quiet Kill to all readers of contemporary crime fiction, including existing Robert Bryndza fans and those who are yet to discover his body of work. I look forward to future instalments in the Detective Jamie Day series, including The Burning Lie, due for publication in 2027!
My thanks to the author, Robert Bryndza, publisher Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title.
October 18, 2026
Jamie Day start als politieagent in Londen en raakt al meteen betrokken bij een moordonderzoek. In het station van Leyton wordt een in stukken gezaagd lichaam aangetroffen. Het slachtoffer blijkt een jonge homoseksuele man te zijn. Hij zal niet het enige slachtoffer blijven, want enige tijd later wordt opnieuw een man op een gelijkaardige manier vermoord teruggevonden. Jamie maakt al snel kennis met het harde recherchewerk, dat sterk verschilt van wat hij gewend was in zijn geboortestreek.
Sluipmoord is het eerste deel in een nieuwe serie rond Jamie Day. Tijdens zijn eerste dagen als rechercheur in burger in Londen komt hij terecht in een klein team. Sommige collega’s ontvangen hem eerder koel, maar uitgebreider kennismaken is niet aan de orde, met de vondst van het lichaam op de gruwelijke plaats delict. Terwijl hij zijn weg probeert te vinden binnen zijn nieuwe team, moet hij ook wennen aan zijn nieuwe woonsituatie. Jamie trekt in bij een welgesteld gezin, maar ook daar blijkt iets merkwaardig te spelen.
Jamie is een sympathiek personage dat vaak interessante conclusies trekt, al is hij soms nog wat onzeker. De lezer merkt duidelijk dat hij zijn plaats zoekt in het chaotische Londense leven, waardoor anderen af en toe misbruik van hem kunnen maken. De verschillende verhaallijnen zijn sterk uitgewerkt en weten moeiteloos te boeien. Ook in deze nieuwe reeks zorgt de schrijfstijl van Bryndza voor een meeslepend verhaal en interessante personages die nog veel groeipotentieel hebben.
Het grootste deel van de hoofdstukken wordt verteld vanuit Jamie’s perspectief, maar daarnaast komen ook diverse nevenpersonages aan bod. Gaandeweg wordt duidelijk hoe hun verhaallijnen bijdragen aan het grotere geheel.
Met Sluipmoord zet Bryndza opnieuw een sterke serie neer en zorgt hij ervoor dat de lezer al reikhalzend uitkijkt naar het vervolg.
Sluipmoord is het eerste deel in een nieuwe serie rond Jamie Day. Tijdens zijn eerste dagen als rechercheur in burger in Londen komt hij terecht in een klein team. Sommige collega’s ontvangen hem eerder koel, maar uitgebreider kennismaken is niet aan de orde, met de vondst van het lichaam op de gruwelijke plaats delict. Terwijl hij zijn weg probeert te vinden binnen zijn nieuwe team, moet hij ook wennen aan zijn nieuwe woonsituatie. Jamie trekt in bij een welgesteld gezin, maar ook daar blijkt iets merkwaardig te spelen.
Jamie is een sympathiek personage dat vaak interessante conclusies trekt, al is hij soms nog wat onzeker. De lezer merkt duidelijk dat hij zijn plaats zoekt in het chaotische Londense leven, waardoor anderen af en toe misbruik van hem kunnen maken. De verschillende verhaallijnen zijn sterk uitgewerkt en weten moeiteloos te boeien. Ook in deze nieuwe reeks zorgt de schrijfstijl van Bryndza voor een meeslepend verhaal en interessante personages die nog veel groeipotentieel hebben.
Het grootste deel van de hoofdstukken wordt verteld vanuit Jamie’s perspectief, maar daarnaast komen ook diverse nevenpersonages aan bod. Gaandeweg wordt duidelijk hoe hun verhaallijnen bijdragen aan het grotere geheel.
Met Sluipmoord zet Bryndza opnieuw een sterke serie neer en zorgt hij ervoor dat de lezer al reikhalzend uitkijkt naar het vervolg.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Moving from a fairly quiet police town in Suffolk to the Met Police in London was always going to be daunting but DC Jamie Day really is thrown in at the deep end as his first case is a dismembered male left behind some dustbins.
It's 1987 and talk of Aids and HIV is rife, people are worried but it was refreshing to see that the Boss was modern in his thinking and putting his team right when they expressed their views.
If this is going to be a new series for Robert Bryndza he's certainly made a cracking start.
It's 1987 and talk of Aids and HIV is rife, people are worried but it was refreshing to see that the Boss was modern in his thinking and putting his team right when they expressed their views.
If this is going to be a new series for Robert Bryndza he's certainly made a cracking start.
October 18, 2026
Een nieuwe stad, een nieuwe job en meteen een moordzaak die niet bepaald voor doetjes is. De 25-jarige rechercheur Jamie Day is nog maar net aangekomen in Londen wanneer hij op zijn eerste werkdag geconfronteerd wordt met het lichaam van een man die in stukken is gesneden. Een opvallende zaak om zijn nieuwe carrière mee te beginnen, en het blijft niet bij dit ene slachtoffer. Al snel wordt een tweede lichaam gevonden.
Met Sluipmoord trapt Robert Bryndza een nieuwe reeks af rond rechercheur Jamie Day, die zich in 1987 een weg probeert te banen door het Londense politielandschap. Het boek maakte me alvast nieuwsgierig naar dit personage. Ik ben benieuwd hoe Jamie zich verder zal ontwikkelen en hoe hij zijn draai zal vinden in het leven en het werk in Londen.
Het was leuk om te vertoeven in Londen aan het einde van de jaren tachtig. Het is boeiend om te ontdekken hoe rechercheurs in die tijd te werk gingen. We zijn ondertussen zo gewend aan mobiele telefoons en snelle communicatie dat je je amper nog kunt voorstellen dat informatie over mogelijke vermisten per fax werd doorgestuurd of dat een onderzoek tijdens het kerstverlof gewoon stilviel. Het geeft het speurwerk een heel andere dynamiek dan we vandaag gewend zijn.
Daarnaast verwerkt de auteur een belangrijk maatschappelijk thema in zijn verhaal: de angst en onwetendheid die er in die periode rond aids heersten. De ziekte ging gepaard met heel wat vooroordelen en stigmatisering, vooral tegenover homoseksuele mannen. Ook de manier waarop de politie omging met cafés die bekendstonden als ontmoetingsplaatsen voor homoseksuelen, waarbij agenten handschoenen droegen, maakt duidelijk hoe groot die angst en onwetendheid waren. Dat historische aspect vond ik een interessante toevoeging aan het verhaal.
Toch wist het verhaal me niet voortdurend even sterk te boeien. Hoewel er zeker interessante elementen in zitten, vond ik dat het tempo op een bepaald moment wat terugviel. Ik merkte dat ik niet meer zo'n haast had om te ontdekken hoe alles zou aflopen. Ook de ontknoping kon me niet helemaal overtuigen, omdat er naar mijn gevoel wat te veel op toevalligheden werd gesteund.
Al bij al heb ik me met Sluipmoord goed vermaakt. Ondanks enkele mindere punten ben ik benieuwd naar het vervolg. Jamie Day heeft me nieuwsgierig gemaakt en ik wil graag ontdekken hoe deze reeks zich verder ontwikkelt.
Met Sluipmoord trapt Robert Bryndza een nieuwe reeks af rond rechercheur Jamie Day, die zich in 1987 een weg probeert te banen door het Londense politielandschap. Het boek maakte me alvast nieuwsgierig naar dit personage. Ik ben benieuwd hoe Jamie zich verder zal ontwikkelen en hoe hij zijn draai zal vinden in het leven en het werk in Londen.
Het was leuk om te vertoeven in Londen aan het einde van de jaren tachtig. Het is boeiend om te ontdekken hoe rechercheurs in die tijd te werk gingen. We zijn ondertussen zo gewend aan mobiele telefoons en snelle communicatie dat je je amper nog kunt voorstellen dat informatie over mogelijke vermisten per fax werd doorgestuurd of dat een onderzoek tijdens het kerstverlof gewoon stilviel. Het geeft het speurwerk een heel andere dynamiek dan we vandaag gewend zijn.
Daarnaast verwerkt de auteur een belangrijk maatschappelijk thema in zijn verhaal: de angst en onwetendheid die er in die periode rond aids heersten. De ziekte ging gepaard met heel wat vooroordelen en stigmatisering, vooral tegenover homoseksuele mannen. Ook de manier waarop de politie omging met cafés die bekendstonden als ontmoetingsplaatsen voor homoseksuelen, waarbij agenten handschoenen droegen, maakt duidelijk hoe groot die angst en onwetendheid waren. Dat historische aspect vond ik een interessante toevoeging aan het verhaal.
Toch wist het verhaal me niet voortdurend even sterk te boeien. Hoewel er zeker interessante elementen in zitten, vond ik dat het tempo op een bepaald moment wat terugviel. Ik merkte dat ik niet meer zo'n haast had om te ontdekken hoe alles zou aflopen. Ook de ontknoping kon me niet helemaal overtuigen, omdat er naar mijn gevoel wat te veel op toevalligheden werd gesteund.
Al bij al heb ik me met Sluipmoord goed vermaakt. Ondanks enkele mindere punten ben ik benieuwd naar het vervolg. Jamie Day heeft me nieuwsgierig gemaakt en ik wil graag ontdekken hoe deze reeks zich verder ontwikkelt.
October 25, 2026
Spannend, met een mooie inkijk in de wereld van een beginnende rechercheur.
In Sluipmoord volgen we Jamie Day, die vanuit een kleine Engelse kustplaats naar Londen verhuist om daar als politieagent in burger aan de slag te gaan. Een flinke verandering, want waar hij vandaan komt, kent iedereen elkaar. Londen is een heel andere wereld, met een heel eigen dynamiek, en het is duidelijk dat Jamie tijd nodig heeft om zijn draai te vinden.
Ik vond het verhaal spannend en het was mooi om te zien hoe Jamie zijn plek probeert te vinden binnen het team. Zijn collega’s staan niet bepaald te springen om een nieuwkomer, waardoor hij zich niet alleen in het onderzoek moet bewijzen, maar ook binnen de groep. Gelukkig is er een ervaren collega die een beetje als een vaderfiguur voor hem voelt en niet bang is om hem eerlijk te vertellen waar het op staat.
Terwijl Jamie langzaam zijn weg vindt in deze nieuwe wereld, probeert hij met zijn scherpe blik het moordonderzoek verder te helpen en het team in een nieuwe richting te sturen. Juist die combinatie van zijn persoonlijke zoektocht en het steeds spannender wordende onderzoek maakte dat ik geboeid bleef lezen.
In Sluipmoord volgen we Jamie Day, die vanuit een kleine Engelse kustplaats naar Londen verhuist om daar als politieagent in burger aan de slag te gaan. Een flinke verandering, want waar hij vandaan komt, kent iedereen elkaar. Londen is een heel andere wereld, met een heel eigen dynamiek, en het is duidelijk dat Jamie tijd nodig heeft om zijn draai te vinden.
Ik vond het verhaal spannend en het was mooi om te zien hoe Jamie zijn plek probeert te vinden binnen het team. Zijn collega’s staan niet bepaald te springen om een nieuwkomer, waardoor hij zich niet alleen in het onderzoek moet bewijzen, maar ook binnen de groep. Gelukkig is er een ervaren collega die een beetje als een vaderfiguur voor hem voelt en niet bang is om hem eerlijk te vertellen waar het op staat.
Terwijl Jamie langzaam zijn weg vindt in deze nieuwe wereld, probeert hij met zijn scherpe blik het moordonderzoek verder te helpen en het team in een nieuwe richting te sturen. Juist die combinatie van zijn persoonlijke zoektocht en het steeds spannender wordende onderzoek maakte dat ik geboeid bleef lezen.
July 8, 2026
Looking for your next gripping crime fiction obsession?
The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza is an excellent series starter that transports us back to the gritty, atmospheric winter of 1987 London.
This is a vividly drawn era where investigations rely on traditional police work, landline phones, and the newly remarkable addition of the office fax machine.
The story introduces us to newbie Detective Constable Jamie Day, whose very first night is upended by the gruesome discovery of a dismembered body at a railway station.
Jamie is a refreshing protagonist, naive and gullible on the surface, but possessed of a quiet intelligence that allows him to put difficult colleagues firmly in their place when required. He is paired with Harry, an old-school detective who is gruff but fair, pragmatic, and deeply empathetic. Alongside the team they find themselves on the hunt for a calculating serial killer.
In a brilliant narrative twist, we lock eyes with the killer from the very onset, watching his cold movements from his sinister set-up, which beautifully elevates the tension.
Bryndza is exceptionally talented at creating excellent, multi-dimensional characters, and he deftly injects touches of humour to balance what is a heavy, dark storyline.
As the investigation intensifies, it is pure determination, relentless police work, and Jamie's growing willingness to operate within the grey areas that ultimately drive them toward a result.
An absolute must-read for crime fiction fans and I can't wait to see what's next for Jamie and the team.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza is an excellent series starter that transports us back to the gritty, atmospheric winter of 1987 London.
This is a vividly drawn era where investigations rely on traditional police work, landline phones, and the newly remarkable addition of the office fax machine.
The story introduces us to newbie Detective Constable Jamie Day, whose very first night is upended by the gruesome discovery of a dismembered body at a railway station.
Jamie is a refreshing protagonist, naive and gullible on the surface, but possessed of a quiet intelligence that allows him to put difficult colleagues firmly in their place when required. He is paired with Harry, an old-school detective who is gruff but fair, pragmatic, and deeply empathetic. Alongside the team they find themselves on the hunt for a calculating serial killer.
In a brilliant narrative twist, we lock eyes with the killer from the very onset, watching his cold movements from his sinister set-up, which beautifully elevates the tension.
Bryndza is exceptionally talented at creating excellent, multi-dimensional characters, and he deftly injects touches of humour to balance what is a heavy, dark storyline.
As the investigation intensifies, it is pure determination, relentless police work, and Jamie's growing willingness to operate within the grey areas that ultimately drive them toward a result.
An absolute must-read for crime fiction fans and I can't wait to see what's next for Jamie and the team.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for the ARC. This is my own opinion.
July 13, 2026
At this point, Robert Bryndza could probably publish his shopping list and I'd give it a go. I've thoroughly enjoyed his previous series, so I was excited to see he’s starting a new one. Thankfully, this was another reminder of why he's one of my auto-read authors. The 1980’s London setting was such a vibe. No mobile phones, no Google, no CCTV doing half the work. Just some old fashioned policing.
I also loved that Jamie Day isn't the typical detective who already has all the answers. It's his first day with the Met and the poor man barely has time to find the coffee machine before there's a dismembered body waiting for him. Talk about a rough first day. He's genuinely likeable though. He's eager, a bit out of his depth, and occasionally puts his foot in it but I rooted for him. His team was great too, and I loved DCI Harry Dean looking out for him.
Bryndza also continues to prove that he isn't afraid to go dark. The murders are brutal, the investigation is addictive, and the chapters are delightfully short. I flew through this and now I'm already impatiently waiting for Jamie Day's next case.
I also loved that Jamie Day isn't the typical detective who already has all the answers. It's his first day with the Met and the poor man barely has time to find the coffee machine before there's a dismembered body waiting for him. Talk about a rough first day. He's genuinely likeable though. He's eager, a bit out of his depth, and occasionally puts his foot in it but I rooted for him. His team was great too, and I loved DCI Harry Dean looking out for him.
Bryndza also continues to prove that he isn't afraid to go dark. The murders are brutal, the investigation is addictive, and the chapters are delightfully short. I flew through this and now I'm already impatiently waiting for Jamie Day's next case.
October 4, 2026
Een thriller die zich afspeelt aan het eind van de jaren 80 en gaat over een seriemoordenaar die homoseksuele mannen vermoord.
Robert Bryndza is echt een autobuy thrillerauteur voor mij. Ik vond bij dit boek zijn dankwoord heel mooi, omdat hij daarin uitlegt waarom hij dit boek heeft geschreven. Robert is zelf ook homoseksueel en al jaren getrouwd met z’n partner Ján en ik vond z’n redenen achter het verhaal mooi om te lezen.
Toch ontbrak aan dit verhaal voor mij de typische Bryndza spanning. Het bleef vrij koeltjes en het greep me niet zo bij de keel als z’n andere boeken. Ik vind de hoofdpersonages van z’n andere thrillerseries gewoon echt leuker en gelaagder. Maar ik ben wel benieuwd waar hij met deze serie heen gaat 🌟.
Robert Bryndza is echt een autobuy thrillerauteur voor mij. Ik vond bij dit boek zijn dankwoord heel mooi, omdat hij daarin uitlegt waarom hij dit boek heeft geschreven. Robert is zelf ook homoseksueel en al jaren getrouwd met z’n partner Ján en ik vond z’n redenen achter het verhaal mooi om te lezen.
Toch ontbrak aan dit verhaal voor mij de typische Bryndza spanning. Het bleef vrij koeltjes en het greep me niet zo bij de keel als z’n andere boeken. Ik vind de hoofdpersonages van z’n andere thrillerseries gewoon echt leuker en gelaagder. Maar ik ben wel benieuwd waar hij met deze serie heen gaat 🌟.
September 30, 2026
Met 'Sluipmoord' begint Robert Bryndza aan een nieuwe serie rondom de jonge rechercheur Jamie Day. Het verhaal speelt zich af in Londen in 1987, een periode waarin de stad behoorlijk wat veranderingen doormaakte en de aidsepidemie een grote impact had op de homogemeenschap. Die tijdsperiode vormt een interessante achtergrond voor het verhaal en wordt op een overtuigende manier neergezet.
Jamie is net begonnen aan zijn nieuwe baan als politieagent in burger wanneer hij meteen wordt geconfronteerd met een gruwelijke moord. Wanneer er vervolgens meer jonge mannen dood worden gevonden en de moorden opvallend veel overeenkomsten vertonen, begint een groot onderzoek naar de persoon die hierachter zit.
Wat ik leuk vond, is dat het niet alleen om het onderzoek draait. Je krijgt ook een goed beeld van Jamie zelf. Hij moet wennen aan zijn nieuwe functie, zijn collega's en het leven in Londen. Ook buiten zijn werk leer je hem steeds beter kennen. Zijn nieuwe woonsituatie en de mensen om hem heen zorgen voor interessante momenten en geven het verhaal net wat meer diepgang.
De eerste moordzaak vond ik interessant en er gebeurt genoeg om je nieuwsgierig te houden. Verdachten worden ondervraagd, nieuwe slachtoffers duiken op en ondertussen komen er steeds meer stukjes informatie boven tafel. Ondanks dat je ook al vanuit de dader leest, blijft het verhaal interessant.
Ook de sfeer vond ik goed passen bij het verhaal. Londen wordt niet alleen als grote stad neergezet, maar heeft ook een behoorlijk donkere kant. De combinatie van het tijdsbeeld, de gruwelijke moorden en de persoonlijke verhaallijn van Jamie werkt goed.
Ik vond 'Sluipmoord' een geslaagde start van een nieuwe serie. Jamie is een interessant personage om verder te leren kennen en het einde maakt in ieder geval nieuwsgierig naar wat hem in een volgend deel te wachten staat.
Ik wil @boekerij / @bestofthrillers heel erg bedanken voor het recensie-exemplaar!
Beoordeling: 4,0 ⭐️
Jamie is net begonnen aan zijn nieuwe baan als politieagent in burger wanneer hij meteen wordt geconfronteerd met een gruwelijke moord. Wanneer er vervolgens meer jonge mannen dood worden gevonden en de moorden opvallend veel overeenkomsten vertonen, begint een groot onderzoek naar de persoon die hierachter zit.
Wat ik leuk vond, is dat het niet alleen om het onderzoek draait. Je krijgt ook een goed beeld van Jamie zelf. Hij moet wennen aan zijn nieuwe functie, zijn collega's en het leven in Londen. Ook buiten zijn werk leer je hem steeds beter kennen. Zijn nieuwe woonsituatie en de mensen om hem heen zorgen voor interessante momenten en geven het verhaal net wat meer diepgang.
De eerste moordzaak vond ik interessant en er gebeurt genoeg om je nieuwsgierig te houden. Verdachten worden ondervraagd, nieuwe slachtoffers duiken op en ondertussen komen er steeds meer stukjes informatie boven tafel. Ondanks dat je ook al vanuit de dader leest, blijft het verhaal interessant.
Ook de sfeer vond ik goed passen bij het verhaal. Londen wordt niet alleen als grote stad neergezet, maar heeft ook een behoorlijk donkere kant. De combinatie van het tijdsbeeld, de gruwelijke moorden en de persoonlijke verhaallijn van Jamie werkt goed.
Ik vond 'Sluipmoord' een geslaagde start van een nieuwe serie. Jamie is een interessant personage om verder te leren kennen en het einde maakt in ieder geval nieuwsgierig naar wat hem in een volgend deel te wachten staat.
Ik wil @boekerij / @bestofthrillers heel erg bedanken voor het recensie-exemplaar!
Beoordeling: 4,0 ⭐️
June 14, 2026
What a brilliant start to a brand new series. Multiple murders, somewhat macabre although kept largely off the page, a police team stuck in late 80s hell with all the prejudices and assumptions of the time, and a corrupt press who will do anything to get a story. The bad old days, but ones which make for a hell of a lot of conflict, without even bringing into account the various crises of the day and an unintentional snafu by Jamie Day that almost ends his career before it can begin. It's the kind of book that pulled me in slowly, but certainly, capturing my attention, shocking and surprising me in all the best ways that you might expect when it comes to crime fiction. Just what I've come to expect from Robert Bryndza.
I like Jamie Day. He's got that kind of fish-out-of-water charm and a terrible sense of honesty and integrity that almost makes him too clean to be successful in his new role as a Detective with the Met Police. Certainly compared to one of his colleagues he has a much more appealing personality, and his occasional naivety and mistakes borne of best intention do make him rather endearing as a character, one I'm glad is now part of a recurring series. Alongside his colleagues, DCI Harry Dean and (W)PC Tracy Steel they make a tight team and Robert Bryndza has quickly set up a really great dynamic, if not always one that runs harmoniously. You get the feeling that Dean is looking out for Jamie, and despite a few hiccups between him and Tracy, that has the makings of a brilliant friendship too. We get to witness some of Jamie's former life too, which really helped establish his character and give context to the really big life changing decision he made to leave for London.
This is not the kind of book where the killer's identity remains hidden until the dying pages. In fact we learn their identity, sort of, but more importantly their motive, rather early on. I say sort of as a few key details are kept hidden until just the right moment, making the revelation all the more shocking in the moment, but perhaps rather fitting for the time in which the book is set. I liked that this is not a modern day thriller, shockingly being set in 1987 it actually qualifies as historical fiction, a depressing thought for those of us old enough to remember the 80s ...
The pacing is pitched perfectly, the suspense and the tension just right for this kind of complex investigation. It's not a high action story, but it still hits home. There are scenes that provoke shock and anger, and whilst not overly graphic in description, still have the ability to make the skin crawl. It is a familiar story, but with a less common angle and that is something that really struck me here. Switching up between the perspective of the police and that of the killer is something that is particularly effective in this story, and their abhorrent actions are all the more impactful because of their clear duplicity.
As a start to a brand new series this one ticked all the boxes and i'm really excited to see where Robert Bryndza leads us and the slightly less innocent than he was Jamie Day next.
I like Jamie Day. He's got that kind of fish-out-of-water charm and a terrible sense of honesty and integrity that almost makes him too clean to be successful in his new role as a Detective with the Met Police. Certainly compared to one of his colleagues he has a much more appealing personality, and his occasional naivety and mistakes borne of best intention do make him rather endearing as a character, one I'm glad is now part of a recurring series. Alongside his colleagues, DCI Harry Dean and (W)PC Tracy Steel they make a tight team and Robert Bryndza has quickly set up a really great dynamic, if not always one that runs harmoniously. You get the feeling that Dean is looking out for Jamie, and despite a few hiccups between him and Tracy, that has the makings of a brilliant friendship too. We get to witness some of Jamie's former life too, which really helped establish his character and give context to the really big life changing decision he made to leave for London.
This is not the kind of book where the killer's identity remains hidden until the dying pages. In fact we learn their identity, sort of, but more importantly their motive, rather early on. I say sort of as a few key details are kept hidden until just the right moment, making the revelation all the more shocking in the moment, but perhaps rather fitting for the time in which the book is set. I liked that this is not a modern day thriller, shockingly being set in 1987 it actually qualifies as historical fiction, a depressing thought for those of us old enough to remember the 80s ...
The pacing is pitched perfectly, the suspense and the tension just right for this kind of complex investigation. It's not a high action story, but it still hits home. There are scenes that provoke shock and anger, and whilst not overly graphic in description, still have the ability to make the skin crawl. It is a familiar story, but with a less common angle and that is something that really struck me here. Switching up between the perspective of the police and that of the killer is something that is particularly effective in this story, and their abhorrent actions are all the more impactful because of their clear duplicity.
As a start to a brand new series this one ticked all the boxes and i'm really excited to see where Robert Bryndza leads us and the slightly less innocent than he was Jamie Day next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Finished reading: June 29th 2026
"Jamie didn't like this at all. This wasn't why he'd signed up for the police."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza is the 1st in the Detective Jamie Day series.
Let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Raven Street Publishing and of course the author (Robert Bryndza), for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a great start to a new series.
As always, Bryndza has created a great cast of characters, and an interesting team dynamic. Jamie is immediately likeable, as is most of the team. More depth is needed, but as this is only the first book, I am sure the characters will be fleshed out. Should prove interesting.
The plot, which centered around the gay community and the problems of the 1980's HIV/AIDS epidemic and deep-seated homophobia, brought back very real, often sad, memories. It also showed that not everyone was bigoted, and that there were a number who were trying to educate rather than denigrate.
Bryndza's smooth writing style and ability to throw in a red herring or two, makes for an interesting, and somewhat complex book.
Absolutely loved this start to a new series!
Anyway, until next time!
For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
August 5, 2026
3.5 stars from a long-time Bryndza reader and sometimes fan.
If you are not already familiar with the author's works, you should read someone else's review.
I do not do long, detailed reviews because I cannot do them well... other provide that.
This new series is a welcome improvement over Robert's last work that I read, Chasing Shadows, (opinion) which I felt was a quickie for the publisher and not done to his usual quality.
Robert brings us yet another new character, DC Jamie Day... him after Kate Marshall and Erika Foster series.
Jamie is a country bumpkin, new to London and his assigned police unit. Robert does a pretty good job of describing 'the new guy' issues and problems that go along with that scenario. He develops a good cast of characters on Jamie's team... Not Barney Miller level personalities, but a good start.
Vile crimes and logical police procedural to solve the case. Be forewarned, you are told the criminal up front, then follow the steps taken to solve it. I liked the second half better than the first, and look forward to the one promised for next year in anticipation of further improvement.
Recommended for Bryndza fans.
If you are not already familiar with the author's works, you should read someone else's review.
I do not do long, detailed reviews because I cannot do them well... other provide that.
This new series is a welcome improvement over Robert's last work that I read, Chasing Shadows, (opinion) which I felt was a quickie for the publisher and not done to his usual quality.
Robert brings us yet another new character, DC Jamie Day... him after Kate Marshall and Erika Foster series.
Jamie is a country bumpkin, new to London and his assigned police unit. Robert does a pretty good job of describing 'the new guy' issues and problems that go along with that scenario. He develops a good cast of characters on Jamie's team... Not Barney Miller level personalities, but a good start.
Vile crimes and logical police procedural to solve the case. Be forewarned, you are told the criminal up front, then follow the steps taken to solve it. I liked the second half better than the first, and look forward to the one promised for next year in anticipation of further improvement.
Recommended for Bryndza fans.
July 22, 2026
THE QUIET KILL is the brand-new crime series, featuring Detective Jamie Day, by Robert Bryndza, the multi-million bestselling creator of Detective Erika Foster and P.I. Kate Marshall series.
Detective Jamie Day
1. The Quiet Kill (2026)
2. The Burning Lie (2027)
Detective Constable Jamie Day, 25 years old, arrives in London in the winter, after working in a small seaside town. He now has been promoted to Detective at the London Metropolitan Police. He is now part of the murder investigation team at West End Central Police Station.
On his first day of his new job, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left outside a Train Station. This finding soon becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
Then more young men are being killed late at night across London, their dismembered bodies discovered in similar circumstances. Was this the work of a serial killer?
The experienced team consisted of:
Harry Dean-Boss
DC Liam Cole (skipper)
DC Ravi Singh
DC Jamie Day
Tracy Steel
Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
This was a strong, dark, well paced, gritty story with realistic characters and short, sharp chapters. The pacing is excellent, and clues are revealed on need-to-know basis. The tension builds gradually throughout, ending in a surprising but satisfying conclusion. This was a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to the next in this series.
Many thanks to the author, Raven Street Publishing and Netgalley for my digital copy
Detective Jamie Day
1. The Quiet Kill (2026)
2. The Burning Lie (2027)
Detective Constable Jamie Day, 25 years old, arrives in London in the winter, after working in a small seaside town. He now has been promoted to Detective at the London Metropolitan Police. He is now part of the murder investigation team at West End Central Police Station.
On his first day of his new job, Jamie makes a grim discovery: the dismembered body of a young man, left outside a Train Station. This finding soon becomes the beginning of a major murder investigation.
Then another victim is found.
Then more young men are being killed late at night across London, their dismembered bodies discovered in similar circumstances. Was this the work of a serial killer?
The experienced team consisted of:
Harry Dean-Boss
DC Liam Cole (skipper)
DC Ravi Singh
DC Jamie Day
Tracy Steel
Jamie must prove he belongs while navigating the pressures of a high-profile investigation. But as the case grows darker, the killer’s pattern begins to emerge. And if they don’t stop him soon, another body will be waiting in the shadows.
This was a strong, dark, well paced, gritty story with realistic characters and short, sharp chapters. The pacing is excellent, and clues are revealed on need-to-know basis. The tension builds gradually throughout, ending in a surprising but satisfying conclusion. This was a great start to a new series. I am looking forward to the next in this series.
Many thanks to the author, Raven Street Publishing and Netgalley for my digital copy
October 25, 2026
The Quiet Kill by Robert Bryndza is the first book in the Detective Jamie Day series. On his first day in London, newly promoted Detective Jamie Day comes across the dismembered body of a young man, which quickly becomes a hunt for a serial killer. Set in the winter of 1987, this case takes us back to the scare of the AIDS virus affecting the gay community. A wonderful start to the series, very atmospheric and dark, and capturing the era perfectly. A particularly vile and sadistic killer. An outstanding police procedural thriller.
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