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DI Avison Fluke #2
Body Breaker
'This is high quality crime writing' A A Dhand
The second dark and twisted thriller in the Avison Fluke series by M. W. Craven, the acclaimed author of The Puppet Show.
Investigating how a severed hand ends up on the third green of a Cumbrian golf course is not how Detective Inspector Avison Fluke has planned to spend his Saturday. So when a secret protection unit from London swoops in quoting national security, he's secretly pleased.
But trouble is never far away. A young woman arrives at his lakeside cabin with a cryptic message: a code known to only a handful of people and it forces Fluke back into the investigation he's only just been barred from.
In a case that will change his life forever, Fluke immerses himself in a world of New Age travellers, corrupt cops and domestic extremists. Before long he's alienated his entire team, has been arrested under the Terrorism Act - and has made a pact with the Devil himself. But a voice has called out to him from beyond the grave. And Fluke is only getting started...
Praise for M. W. Craven:
'Dark, sharp and compelling' PETER JAMES
'Fantastic' MARTINA COLE
'Britain's answer to Harry Bosch' MATT HILTON
'Thrilling' MICK HERRON
'Brilliantly inventive' WILLIAM SHAW
'A powerful thriller from an explosive new talent' DAVID MARK
The second dark and twisted thriller in the Avison Fluke series by M. W. Craven, the acclaimed author of The Puppet Show.
Investigating how a severed hand ends up on the third green of a Cumbrian golf course is not how Detective Inspector Avison Fluke has planned to spend his Saturday. So when a secret protection unit from London swoops in quoting national security, he's secretly pleased.
But trouble is never far away. A young woman arrives at his lakeside cabin with a cryptic message: a code known to only a handful of people and it forces Fluke back into the investigation he's only just been barred from.
In a case that will change his life forever, Fluke immerses himself in a world of New Age travellers, corrupt cops and domestic extremists. Before long he's alienated his entire team, has been arrested under the Terrorism Act - and has made a pact with the Devil himself. But a voice has called out to him from beyond the grave. And Fluke is only getting started...
Praise for M. W. Craven:
'Dark, sharp and compelling' PETER JAMES
'Fantastic' MARTINA COLE
'Britain's answer to Harry Bosch' MATT HILTON
'Thrilling' MICK HERRON
'Brilliantly inventive' WILLIAM SHAW
'A powerful thriller from an explosive new talent' DAVID MARK
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 25, 2017
350 people are currently reading
802 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
March 30, 2020
After devouring the first two novels in M.W. Craven’s thrilling police procedural series with Washington Poe at the helm, I wanted more. Digging up an earlier penned duology under the name Mike Craven, I wanted to see if some of the earlier writing was just as exciting. Thankfully, Craven’s work has been stellar from the beginning and this piece pulled me in deeper. With a little knowledge of DI Avison Fluke and his crime fighting abilities from the series debut, I was ready to dive right in. When DI Fluke and his team are called to a golf course, they are unsure what to expect. A severed hand soon leads to a collection of body pieces in the nearby wood. Fluke accompanies the oddly dismembered body to the post-mortem, only to have the case intercepted by the London Met. Simmering yet somewhat curious, Fluke acquiesces, but is eager to get some answers, as the body belongs to an old military friend of his. While at home in his isolated cabin, Fluke and his new girlfriend are interrupted when a young woman comes knocking at the door. She admits that Fluke’s name and location was provided to her, should her boyfriend not return. Sure that he is simply away, the young Jinx is happy to bide her time. While Fluke has no idea who Jinx might be, or the man she claims is her boyfriend, he soon discovers the link and is stunned, as it is the same man whose body is now at the morgue. Hiding what he knows, Fluke begins learning a little more about Jinx and her way of life, discovering that she lives in a nearby commune as a fellow new-ager. Fluke uses some of his down time to do a reconnoiter of the area, where he discovers a potential killer. He also learns that there may have been some undercover work taking place, but for what reason Fluke has yet to be made aware. After a few dust-ups with the Met, Fluke is brought onto the case, as he has some great background knowledge of the victim. In a parallel narrative, the reader discovers more about Fluke’s military work in Northern Ireland during The Troubles and how he made some fairly formidable enemies amongst segments of the IRA. Working as covertly as possible, DI Fluke and the team hone in on their suspected killer within the commune, only to discover that there is much more to the story, with larger foes still at large. Another wonderful piece by Craven, who seems to have a wonderful ability to dazzle with whatever he pens. Recommended to the lover of police procedurals that have a twist, as well as the reader who has enjoyed Washington Poe novels and awaits the next instalment with some degree of impatience.
A lucky error brought this series to my attention. I had been wondering about Craven and noticed that a new novel in the series that got me hooked was still a few months away. I located both novels in the Avison Fluke series and thought I ought to give them a try. I am happy to have followed my intuition, as both books packed a punch from the opening pages. DI Avison Fluke is quite the character, with a great deal of backstory offered throughout this piece. A man who has battled both cancer and the IRA, Fluke does not seem to stand down for anything at all. While cancer was the central backstory in the debut, the reader learns a great deal more about Fluke’s military work during The Troubles and his connection to a few of the characters who appear in this piece. There is still a great deal of mystery and secrecy in the novel, including how he juggles these secrets and still interacts with the outside world. His police work is also quite involved, allowing Fluke to show off a gritty side that is not to be missed. Tactical and ready for whatever is before him, DI Fluke leads a team into battle, even when faced with some squabbles over jurisdiction. Other characters serve to complement Fluke and enrich the reading experience, doing so masterfully in both books. They create wonderful banter in their dialogue and are just as gritty as DI Fluke, yet have personalities all their own the reader can enjoy. The story was wonderfully paced and kept me wanting to know a little more, especially with the flashbacks to Northern Ireland. Setting the story in Cumbria, Craven is able to concoct a tale that is impactful while also being somewhat more relaxed. I know there are two Washington Poe novels in the works, but wold love to see more Fluke, should time permit. Heck, even some crossover work could be fun to read!
Kudos, Mr. Craven, for dazzling the reader at every turn. I look forward to whatever else you have in mind for your fans.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
A lucky error brought this series to my attention. I had been wondering about Craven and noticed that a new novel in the series that got me hooked was still a few months away. I located both novels in the Avison Fluke series and thought I ought to give them a try. I am happy to have followed my intuition, as both books packed a punch from the opening pages. DI Avison Fluke is quite the character, with a great deal of backstory offered throughout this piece. A man who has battled both cancer and the IRA, Fluke does not seem to stand down for anything at all. While cancer was the central backstory in the debut, the reader learns a great deal more about Fluke’s military work during The Troubles and his connection to a few of the characters who appear in this piece. There is still a great deal of mystery and secrecy in the novel, including how he juggles these secrets and still interacts with the outside world. His police work is also quite involved, allowing Fluke to show off a gritty side that is not to be missed. Tactical and ready for whatever is before him, DI Fluke leads a team into battle, even when faced with some squabbles over jurisdiction. Other characters serve to complement Fluke and enrich the reading experience, doing so masterfully in both books. They create wonderful banter in their dialogue and are just as gritty as DI Fluke, yet have personalities all their own the reader can enjoy. The story was wonderfully paced and kept me wanting to know a little more, especially with the flashbacks to Northern Ireland. Setting the story in Cumbria, Craven is able to concoct a tale that is impactful while also being somewhat more relaxed. I know there are two Washington Poe novels in the works, but wold love to see more Fluke, should time permit. Heck, even some crossover work could be fun to read!
Kudos, Mr. Craven, for dazzling the reader at every turn. I look forward to whatever else you have in mind for your fans.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
November 28, 2021
Avison Fluke is brought in when a severed hand is found on a Cumbrian golf course. Along with the rest of the force major incident team (MFIT), he sets about solving the crime only to be pushed aside by a special protection unit from London. No one, however, pushes Fluke aside without consequences. Yet another M W Craven novel which is worth reading despite not really reaching the level of the later Washington Poe series.
April 29, 2021
I have yet to read a bad book by M.W.Craven, he is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.
December 28, 2024
I loved this book, not as developed as his Washington Poe series but well worth the read. Given that I am waiting for the next Washington Poe book, June 2025 can't come quickly enough, I'm looking at reading all of Cravens books as I'm well and truly hooked. This book has Avison Fluke recovering from his cancer and becoming fitter than in the last book. His friendship with Towler and their time in the military is explored going back to Ireland and the mysterious Choreographer. The book opens with a dismembered body being found on a Cumbrian golf course, and just as his investigation gets started, he is taken off it by a specialist team from London. A hippy woman finds his cabin seeking his help to find her husband, Flukes army best friend Bish. It's a thrilling, dark, compelling, police crime investigation, with unexpected twists and turns, which makes this a super read. Brilliant, fantastic stuff.
May 26, 2017
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
I have a thing for flawed fictional detectives, I think it’s the rawness and vulnerability that’s usually hiding underneath a tough exterior, but by the time I had finished the first chapter of Body Breaker I knew that I had another favorite to add to my list after being introduced to Avison Fluke. This was so much more than an average police procedural, it had multilayered depth that made it truly memorable.
It opens with a bang, Fluke gets called out to a golf course when a hand is discovered, so yes this is grisly at times. There was nothing added just for shock value though, there was a meaning behind every gory crime scene. As he starts to dig into the case, he’s shocked when there is a very personal connection between his own past and he’s even more bound and determined to find the killer.
Fluke and his partner and longtime friend, Towler have such a fantastic and well crafted relationship, it really feels genuine and their bond is wholly believable. In fact, the whole book is brilliant in the same type of way as it rings true throughout. The characterization is so deep and rich, I had such an honest sense of truly knowing who Fluke is and got a very insightful and in depth look at a man who is deeply and woefully endearing.
This book really kept me on my toes, there were red herrings galore and turns that knocked the breath out of me. I never could’ve pieced things together the way Fluke and his team did, it was very cleverly plotted and the ending was tidy, yet left wide open for a follow up book.
I have a thing for flawed fictional detectives, I think it’s the rawness and vulnerability that’s usually hiding underneath a tough exterior, but by the time I had finished the first chapter of Body Breaker I knew that I had another favorite to add to my list after being introduced to Avison Fluke. This was so much more than an average police procedural, it had multilayered depth that made it truly memorable.
It opens with a bang, Fluke gets called out to a golf course when a hand is discovered, so yes this is grisly at times. There was nothing added just for shock value though, there was a meaning behind every gory crime scene. As he starts to dig into the case, he’s shocked when there is a very personal connection between his own past and he’s even more bound and determined to find the killer.
Fluke and his partner and longtime friend, Towler have such a fantastic and well crafted relationship, it really feels genuine and their bond is wholly believable. In fact, the whole book is brilliant in the same type of way as it rings true throughout. The characterization is so deep and rich, I had such an honest sense of truly knowing who Fluke is and got a very insightful and in depth look at a man who is deeply and woefully endearing.
This book really kept me on my toes, there were red herrings galore and turns that knocked the breath out of me. I never could’ve pieced things together the way Fluke and his team did, it was very cleverly plotted and the ending was tidy, yet left wide open for a follow up book.
June 18, 2023
No frills crime writing with great characters and an entertaining plot resulting in a fun read.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
April 11, 2022
This was my intro to the character DI Avison Fluke. It was certainly lively with odd characters and strange action that would not fall into any standard category. Avison's history in Ireland with one of the featured characters who happens to be the corpse occupying center stage amplified with the coterie of New Agers his old friend had been living with makes for interesting reading.
I believe I should go back to the first of the series to be properly introduced to this driven man, Fluke.
I believe I should go back to the first of the series to be properly introduced to this driven man, Fluke.
September 23, 2022
This was a good mystery, but I had a nagging feeling that the author was not into it. That may be the reason for Craven not writing more books in this series.
Fluke takes questionable decisions and was not likeable. The twist after twist in the end didn't impress me. Similar to the first one, there was too much unnecessary violence.
Fluke takes questionable decisions and was not likeable. The twist after twist in the end didn't impress me. Similar to the first one, there was too much unnecessary violence.
May 25, 2017
Cumbria is where it is all happening with DI Fluke and the Force Major Incident Team (FMIT). We are faced with the past, grief, revenge, life changing choices, and a search for the truth.
The prologue instantly grabs you as it is emotive and mysterious – and somewhat haunting, in my opinion. Immediately I had questions that I hoped the rest of the pages would answer….and OMFG, I am not sure I was prepared for the onslaught of action that followed but I immediately knew I would LOVE this book… Starting off fast, the plot races and I was caught up in a journey that kept me guessing. The author then lulls the reader into this false sense of security until #BOOM – the sh*t gets real peeps!!
I wish I could talk about #AllTheCharacters – but that would not leave much for the rest of you readers, so I will share my thoughts on those I love, or who made an impact on me. First off there is DI Avison Fluke – I bloody love that name! I was thrilled to see the author injected Fluke’s wickedly wonderful sense of humour throughout. Fluke is a clever one and he doesn’t mince his words. However, he was also very introspective in this story and I really liked that side of him. Bridie, a hard-ass solicitor and Fluke’s girlfriend, brings out a side to Fluke that I am not even sure he knew existed! #NoSpoilers though!
DS Towler is probably my favourite personality of the FMIT. He is Fluke’s best friend from the old days, an ex para- loyal, strong and quick-witted. The type of guy you want on your side. I actually picture an army tank when I see his name…don’t ask, I think he just comes across this way to me! 😂😂 But boy, do they really set him up in this one…#PoorPoorTowler – I laughed….you’ll see why when you read the book!
Jinx, Twist and Vane are three more characters that had me questioning my reasoning all throughout. Do I trust any of them. Were they involved in Mark Bishop’s murder? Free spirit’s …well, Vane….not so much 😂 but they all played a key part in moving the story forward and keeping me turning those pages.
I cannot leave out Nathanial Diamond – this guy made my skin crawl! Ruthless gang leader who “owed” Fluke – but can HE be trusted? He helps Fluke out but what price will Fluke have to pay? Damn….I was on the edge of my seat! And finally, “The Choreographer” – well who the hell is this?? Totally intriguing and utterly compelling, wait until you come across this character. There is one more character you may recognise, though they have had a sex change….LOVED IT!
So, #bookjunkies…do I recommend this read? HELL YEAH I do!! Talk about a kick-ass, mind-blowing, are-you-bleeping-serious ending! Why, Mr Craven….WHY are you doing this to me? You had better be a fast writer as you can’t keep us waiting another year for the next book!
The prologue instantly grabs you as it is emotive and mysterious – and somewhat haunting, in my opinion. Immediately I had questions that I hoped the rest of the pages would answer….and OMFG, I am not sure I was prepared for the onslaught of action that followed but I immediately knew I would LOVE this book… Starting off fast, the plot races and I was caught up in a journey that kept me guessing. The author then lulls the reader into this false sense of security until #BOOM – the sh*t gets real peeps!!
I wish I could talk about #AllTheCharacters – but that would not leave much for the rest of you readers, so I will share my thoughts on those I love, or who made an impact on me. First off there is DI Avison Fluke – I bloody love that name! I was thrilled to see the author injected Fluke’s wickedly wonderful sense of humour throughout. Fluke is a clever one and he doesn’t mince his words. However, he was also very introspective in this story and I really liked that side of him. Bridie, a hard-ass solicitor and Fluke’s girlfriend, brings out a side to Fluke that I am not even sure he knew existed! #NoSpoilers though!
DS Towler is probably my favourite personality of the FMIT. He is Fluke’s best friend from the old days, an ex para- loyal, strong and quick-witted. The type of guy you want on your side. I actually picture an army tank when I see his name…don’t ask, I think he just comes across this way to me! 😂😂 But boy, do they really set him up in this one…#PoorPoorTowler – I laughed….you’ll see why when you read the book!
Jinx, Twist and Vane are three more characters that had me questioning my reasoning all throughout. Do I trust any of them. Were they involved in Mark Bishop’s murder? Free spirit’s …well, Vane….not so much 😂 but they all played a key part in moving the story forward and keeping me turning those pages.
I cannot leave out Nathanial Diamond – this guy made my skin crawl! Ruthless gang leader who “owed” Fluke – but can HE be trusted? He helps Fluke out but what price will Fluke have to pay? Damn….I was on the edge of my seat! And finally, “The Choreographer” – well who the hell is this?? Totally intriguing and utterly compelling, wait until you come across this character. There is one more character you may recognise, though they have had a sex change….LOVED IT!
So, #bookjunkies…do I recommend this read? HELL YEAH I do!! Talk about a kick-ass, mind-blowing, are-you-bleeping-serious ending! Why, Mr Craven….WHY are you doing this to me? You had better be a fast writer as you can’t keep us waiting another year for the next book!
May 26, 2017
Body Breaker is the second novel in the DI Avison Fluke series. The author gives you enough background in this book so that it isn't essential to have read Born In A Burial Gown which is the first before reading this. As it's a cracker of a novel though, I suggest you read both.
It was great to catch up with Fluke again as well as Towler who I have to admit is becoming a personal favourite of mine. Fluke still hasn't been driven out of his fabulous log cabin which will have most readers envious of this home in a wonderful setting. He is having to try and juggle his work with his personal life. He is very set in his ways and is finding it a big adjustment sharing his home with someone.
Towler, what can I say, he is just brilliant. He never fails to put a grin on my face. As usual Fluke as to keep an extra eye on him to make sure he doesn't step out of line and don't think anyone else would be able to handle him the way Fluke does.
The story gets off to a great start with a body part being found. From that point on I was well and truly hooked. The author weaves the story in such a way that has the reader frantically turning the pages to see what is going to happen next.
Body Breakers is a great follow on in what is already an intelligent and gripping crime series. With an ending that will have readers begging for more, this really is a must read for crime fans.
My thanks to the author and Noelle Holten for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
It was great to catch up with Fluke again as well as Towler who I have to admit is becoming a personal favourite of mine. Fluke still hasn't been driven out of his fabulous log cabin which will have most readers envious of this home in a wonderful setting. He is having to try and juggle his work with his personal life. He is very set in his ways and is finding it a big adjustment sharing his home with someone.
Towler, what can I say, he is just brilliant. He never fails to put a grin on my face. As usual Fluke as to keep an extra eye on him to make sure he doesn't step out of line and don't think anyone else would be able to handle him the way Fluke does.
The story gets off to a great start with a body part being found. From that point on I was well and truly hooked. The author weaves the story in such a way that has the reader frantically turning the pages to see what is going to happen next.
Body Breakers is a great follow on in what is already an intelligent and gripping crime series. With an ending that will have readers begging for more, this really is a must read for crime fans.
My thanks to the author and Noelle Holten for an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
February 9, 2020
Τέλος το Body breaker,και έχω να πω λίγα και συγκεκριμένα:αν σας άρεσαν οι Μαριονέτες και το δίδυμο Poe-Tilly,τα δύο πρώτα της σειράς με τον Avison Fluke-πρώην πεζοναύτη,και τον Towler-πρώην αλεξιπτωτιστή- απλά θα σας μαγέψουν.Ώριμη γραφή,χωρίς εξάρσεις και τερτίπια,πεντακάθαρη δομή με αρχή-μέση-τέλος και αρκούντως πολυεπίπεδες ιστορίες,δίνουν την εικόνα ενός συγγραφέα που πραγματικά ξέρει να γράφει.Εύχομαι η επιτυχία της έκδοσης των Μαριονετών να είναι το έναυσμα να κυκλοφορήσουν στα ελληνικά και αυτά τα δυο.
5⭐
5⭐
May 22, 2025
“Dear Mr Craven, I have now read all of your books. Please write another one as soon as possible, I have holidays coming up. Lots of love, Paula”
June 7, 2017
I am in love. It’s that simple. There are a small number of reviewers whose opinion I completely trust. They only have to mention an author or their books and I’m signing into Amazon! Mike Craven’s books fall into that category. I’ve had the first book in the series, Born in a Burial Gown on the TBR for a while now and have been desperate to read it. So when the opportunity to feature on the Body Breaker blog tour arose, I jumped at the chance.
I absolutely fell in love with DI Avison Fluke. But it wasn’t just our leading man, it was every member of his team as well. For me, as an avid crime reader, someone who tends to read a lot of police procedurals, this book really grabbed my attention. That was partly due to a cracking plot and partly due to probably the best investigative team I’ve had the pleasure of reading about. Not since Mark Billingham’s Tom Thorne have I been this excited and, let’s be honest here, this smitten with a detective.
Something else that was a little different; even though this is the second book in the series (there are 2.5 by the way, two full novels and a novella) I didn’t feel as though I was missing out by not having read the first book. I find you tend to be left wondering about certain occurrences, things happen and you’re not sure if it relates to something from earlier in the series, almost like you’re always missing…something. I didn’t feel that at all whilst reading Body Breaker. It’s the best ‘part of a series standalone’ I’ve read! Saying that, I will be doing all I can to squeeze Born in a Burial Gown into my reading schedule very very soon.
DI Fluke and his second in command, DS Towler are both ex-military. And despite not serving together, these boys have a strong history together. As well as the type of friendship where the other would happily die to save his mate. I loved their relationship as not only was it hilarious in places it brought a warmth to the story. Each character is unique, each character had their moment to prove their worth to the investigation and I loved it.
What starts out as the discovery of a severed hand on a golf course turns into so much more. This book took me places I didn’t expect, gave me reading material that was quite different to my normal choices and kept me gripped from the very start to the very end. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough but I also wanted the story to last much longer than its 320 pages!
Would I recommend this book? I most definitely would. I’m excited to have discovered Avison Fluke and his team. The author is currently working on a new series and I desperately hope this isn’t the last we’ll see of Fluke for a while (although I am very much looking forward to meeting Washington Poe!). It’s a thrilling, heart pounding novel which gave me much more than I initially expected.
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of Body Breaker. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
I absolutely fell in love with DI Avison Fluke. But it wasn’t just our leading man, it was every member of his team as well. For me, as an avid crime reader, someone who tends to read a lot of police procedurals, this book really grabbed my attention. That was partly due to a cracking plot and partly due to probably the best investigative team I’ve had the pleasure of reading about. Not since Mark Billingham’s Tom Thorne have I been this excited and, let’s be honest here, this smitten with a detective.
Something else that was a little different; even though this is the second book in the series (there are 2.5 by the way, two full novels and a novella) I didn’t feel as though I was missing out by not having read the first book. I find you tend to be left wondering about certain occurrences, things happen and you’re not sure if it relates to something from earlier in the series, almost like you’re always missing…something. I didn’t feel that at all whilst reading Body Breaker. It’s the best ‘part of a series standalone’ I’ve read! Saying that, I will be doing all I can to squeeze Born in a Burial Gown into my reading schedule very very soon.
DI Fluke and his second in command, DS Towler are both ex-military. And despite not serving together, these boys have a strong history together. As well as the type of friendship where the other would happily die to save his mate. I loved their relationship as not only was it hilarious in places it brought a warmth to the story. Each character is unique, each character had their moment to prove their worth to the investigation and I loved it.
What starts out as the discovery of a severed hand on a golf course turns into so much more. This book took me places I didn’t expect, gave me reading material that was quite different to my normal choices and kept me gripped from the very start to the very end. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough but I also wanted the story to last much longer than its 320 pages!
Would I recommend this book? I most definitely would. I’m excited to have discovered Avison Fluke and his team. The author is currently working on a new series and I desperately hope this isn’t the last we’ll see of Fluke for a while (although I am very much looking forward to meeting Washington Poe!). It’s a thrilling, heart pounding novel which gave me much more than I initially expected.
Five out of five stars.
I chose to read and review an eARC of Body Breaker. The above review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 13, 2020
Sophomore Letdown
Review of the Constable paperback edition (2020) of the 2017 original
I was quite impressed with the first outing of M.W. Craven's Avison Fluke series Born in a Burial Gown (2016) especially due to its level of detail in the forensic investigation and with the diversity of the investigative team who each contributed unique quirky talents to the effort.
This second outing was unfortunately a letdown esp. due to less of the teamwork from the original. Fluke himself becomes rather unlikeable due to faulty or inappropriate decisions and judgment. In the end there are quite a few plot threads that are unresolved. Craven himself must have become dissatisfied and abandoned Fluke and turned instead to the Washington Poe series which seems to be an ongoing concern.
Review of the Constable paperback edition (2020) of the 2017 original
I was quite impressed with the first outing of M.W. Craven's Avison Fluke series Born in a Burial Gown (2016) especially due to its level of detail in the forensic investigation and with the diversity of the investigative team who each contributed unique quirky talents to the effort.
This second outing was unfortunately a letdown esp. due to less of the teamwork from the original. Fluke himself becomes rather unlikeable due to faulty or inappropriate decisions and judgment. In the end there are quite a few plot threads that are unresolved. Craven himself must have become dissatisfied and abandoned Fluke and turned instead to the Washington Poe series which seems to be an ongoing concern.
October 3, 2022
Another brilliant and dark novel from Mr Craven. Lots of well-written characters along with a nice twisting plot. I'm not sure the final chapter was strictly ncessary, however. Really hope he does more Fluke novels.
July 31, 2022
This is a great read. Having enjoyed the first book I was looking forward to this one, and it didn’t disappoint.
Fluke is called when a hand is found at a golf course. The rest of the body is not far away and it’s clear the man has been murdered.
Fluke attends the post mortem but soon the investigation is taken off him by the Met.
A woman turns up on Fluke’s doorstep and has some shocking information for him which relates to the dead man.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Fluke is called when a hand is found at a golf course. The rest of the body is not far away and it’s clear the man has been murdered.
Fluke attends the post mortem but soon the investigation is taken off him by the Met.
A woman turns up on Fluke’s doorstep and has some shocking information for him which relates to the dead man.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
May 30, 2017
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
There are some books you pick up and know you are in for a seriously good read, and I just knew from the opening chapter Body Breaker by Mike Craven was going to be one of those books.It’s obvious that The author has “Inside” knowledge of crime investigation procedure and the technical aspects of police work. personally I felt his knowledge made Body Breaker all the more compelling and it definitely added authenticity to this gripping tale. For me Body Breaker doesn’t read like a conventional crime thriller, it has so much more to offer the reader in terms of plot, characters and action.
I’m not going to rehash the plot as it’s all in the book description, suffice to say when our hero Fluke gets a grisly call from beyond the grave, he is determined to get to the truth and god help anyone who gets in his way. I’m not sure which character I loved the most Fluke who gives the illusion he’s a rogue cop or his sidekick the psychotic Towler, the author describes him as a “social hand grenade” which sums him up perfectly. I think they make the perfect combination and the dark humour between the pair have planted them firmly in “my favourite” fiction detectives.
If I’m honest I wasn’t sure the plot would be enough to keep me gripped with new age travellers, corrupt cops and domestic extremists, I’m more of a “serial killer on the loose” kinda of girl, but thanks to a well plotted tale, fabulous characters and Mike Craven’s ability to draw the reader in with his style of writing, I actually found this book to be a gripping read. The first half of Body Breaker wasn’t as fast paced as I expected, but once it reached the half way mark the plot moved along like an express train on speed! And the ending, brilliantly executed and left me desperate to read more.
The author manages to reel the reader in and I gave up trying to second guess where the plot was leading as it had so many twist and turns that I didn’t see coming until they smacked me in the face, don’t you just love it when a book does that? Body Breaker certainly has plenty to offer the crime thriller lover, and if you are looking for a unique plot, (not a serial killer in sight) this might just be the book for you.
There are some books you pick up and know you are in for a seriously good read, and I just knew from the opening chapter Body Breaker by Mike Craven was going to be one of those books.It’s obvious that The author has “Inside” knowledge of crime investigation procedure and the technical aspects of police work. personally I felt his knowledge made Body Breaker all the more compelling and it definitely added authenticity to this gripping tale. For me Body Breaker doesn’t read like a conventional crime thriller, it has so much more to offer the reader in terms of plot, characters and action.
I’m not going to rehash the plot as it’s all in the book description, suffice to say when our hero Fluke gets a grisly call from beyond the grave, he is determined to get to the truth and god help anyone who gets in his way. I’m not sure which character I loved the most Fluke who gives the illusion he’s a rogue cop or his sidekick the psychotic Towler, the author describes him as a “social hand grenade” which sums him up perfectly. I think they make the perfect combination and the dark humour between the pair have planted them firmly in “my favourite” fiction detectives.
If I’m honest I wasn’t sure the plot would be enough to keep me gripped with new age travellers, corrupt cops and domestic extremists, I’m more of a “serial killer on the loose” kinda of girl, but thanks to a well plotted tale, fabulous characters and Mike Craven’s ability to draw the reader in with his style of writing, I actually found this book to be a gripping read. The first half of Body Breaker wasn’t as fast paced as I expected, but once it reached the half way mark the plot moved along like an express train on speed! And the ending, brilliantly executed and left me desperate to read more.
The author manages to reel the reader in and I gave up trying to second guess where the plot was leading as it had so many twist and turns that I didn’t see coming until they smacked me in the face, don’t you just love it when a book does that? Body Breaker certainly has plenty to offer the crime thriller lover, and if you are looking for a unique plot, (not a serial killer in sight) this might just be the book for you.
July 24, 2021
Yet another Craven cracker that I demolished in a day, having wanted to see more of Avison Fluke and his team right after reading the first book of the series. This one is styled very similarly, opening in a rather mysterious prologue with no context before cutting to the case at hand, parts of a dead body found on a golf course.
While it quickly becomes apparent that this one cuts much finer for Fluke than the first book did, when , I have to say I was quite entertained by how he went about handling what transpired. Craven has a beautiful way of storytelling, I suspect if other detectives who I’m less fond of had pulled any of these stunts I might have branded them as spoiled, but here it came off as clever. I’m also very much warming to Towler: He’s clearly far gentler than meets the eye, is also highly intelligent, and can stand his ground when he needs to.
While I did suspect something was amiss with the way that the investigation was heading, I completely bought into the red herrings and never suspected the twist that came during the reveal. Slightly ironic too, given that . I also liked how the premise took a dark turn very quickly, but it was educational at the same time: .
The only thing that really annoys me is how it ended – given that I know Craven hasn’t revisited this series for a long time after this one was written. Can’t say I exactly blame him, given how big a sensation the Washington Poe books turned out to be. I’m a great fan of that series as well and am eagerly awaiting publication of The Botanist, but now I’m equally excited for when Craven decides to revisit Team Fluke. 5 stars.
While it quickly becomes apparent that this one cuts much finer for Fluke than the first book did, when , I have to say I was quite entertained by how he went about handling what transpired. Craven has a beautiful way of storytelling, I suspect if other detectives who I’m less fond of had pulled any of these stunts I might have branded them as spoiled, but here it came off as clever. I’m also very much warming to Towler: He’s clearly far gentler than meets the eye, is also highly intelligent, and can stand his ground when he needs to.
While I did suspect something was amiss with the way that the investigation was heading, I completely bought into the red herrings and never suspected the twist that came during the reveal. Slightly ironic too, given that . I also liked how the premise took a dark turn very quickly, but it was educational at the same time: .
The only thing that really annoys me is how it ended – given that I know Craven hasn’t revisited this series for a long time after this one was written. Can’t say I exactly blame him, given how big a sensation the Washington Poe books turned out to be. I’m a great fan of that series as well and am eagerly awaiting publication of The Botanist, but now I’m equally excited for when Craven decides to revisit Team Fluke. 5 stars.
March 27, 2022
After devouring Born In A Burial Gown in a few days of solid reading I got straight into reading Body Breakers hoping for more from DI Fluke series it felt a bit weak from my perspective I could not enjoy the series enough to recommend. Most of the two books although cleverly written I found it hard not to miss Fluke and Towler inseparable friendship most of the pages contained over excessive violence and detail not relevance to the crime scene. Along with the childish behaviour in book two from Reyes and Fluke constantly trying to out do each other disrupting each other cases instead of form a stronger team made me frustrated from page one as M. W. Craven has introduced some brilliant characters to the detective world hopefully they can be come main characters to their own series.
Be warned not to read DI Fluke novels before eating some of the scenes are so graphic I can’t help but wince at each page although it in writing I can imagine all of the pain inflicted on the victims loads of detail no needing to be there from the start. I keep an eye for M. W. Craven latest detective series Washington Poe but I feel mostly DI Fluke was based on the newer detective team filled with lovable oddballs just without the characters I want to come back too after all need a Henry Sowerby in our lives to make it much more entertaining.
Be warned not to read DI Fluke novels before eating some of the scenes are so graphic I can’t help but wince at each page although it in writing I can imagine all of the pain inflicted on the victims loads of detail no needing to be there from the start. I keep an eye for M. W. Craven latest detective series Washington Poe but I feel mostly DI Fluke was based on the newer detective team filled with lovable oddballs just without the characters I want to come back too after all need a Henry Sowerby in our lives to make it much more entertaining.
September 21, 2024
Reading this for Darkest London square.
Avison Fluke is a very good detective. He is good in observation and deductive thinking.
He was at a crime scene when a dismembered pieces of body was found. He first found a hand, then found the rest. The identity of the person is unknown.
The finding out of the identity of the victim and how Fluke found out that he knew the victim.
The other team from MI5 Reyes was an arrogant jerk who has taken the case from Fluke. This would not stop Fluke to continue finding out about the case.
The rest is a lot clues and plot twists. I like it a lot. And Fluke is trying to deal with some harassment as well.
4.5 stars read. I like Washington Poe more but Fluke is an interesting character as well.
Avison Fluke is a very good detective. He is good in observation and deductive thinking.
He was at a crime scene when a dismembered pieces of body was found. He first found a hand, then found the rest. The identity of the person is unknown.
The finding out of the identity of the victim and how Fluke found out that he knew the victim.
The other team from MI5 Reyes was an arrogant jerk who has taken the case from Fluke. This would not stop Fluke to continue finding out about the case.
The rest is a lot clues and plot twists. I like it a lot. And Fluke is trying to deal with some harassment as well.
4.5 stars read. I like Washington Poe more but Fluke is an interesting character as well.
July 3, 2022
Brilliant, well written story. Really enjoyed it.
February 24, 2023
Another spectacular book by MW Craven. Loved this one more than born in a burial gown. Brilliant writing, storyline and twists. Avison isn't quite Poe but he's still a great character.
June 9, 2020
DI Avison Fluke is a wonderfully engaging character.He is intelligent, intuitive and has a highly developed distrust of authority. In this second book , Fluke has all his strengths and idiosyncrasies on full display. He is called to the scene of a murder and discovers a dismembered corpse. As the plot develops, he discovers that the deceased is his close friend from his days in the Royal Marines. The quest for the solution of this crime embroils him and his team in confrontations with MI5, environmentalists and the lingering remnants of the IRA. The book is fiendishly plotted and has surprises that rival the best Jeffrey Deaver constructs. The book is fast paced and well worth the read.I hope Mike Craven continues this character.It seems that Mr Craven has moved on to another wonderful detective, Washington Poe. DI Fluke also merits a further voice.
June 7, 2017
The long awaited sequel to Born in a Burial Gown. And I'm not sure. I absolutely loved the first book with DI Avison Fluke and his team, but this, well, perhaps the eager anticipation hyped up the expectations which, I felt, didn't come up to the mark. A great story line and best opening paragraph every, but along the way I felt Avison's decisions were at odds, or were they. I think to do this justice I need to read them both again. It's been a while since delving into the psyche of Avison from the first novel so maybe I'm not remembering properly. Initial reaction was good, but not as good as book 1. I'll let you know of any updates after the re-reads.
June 28, 2022
4.5 stars
November 23, 2022
A competent police procedural with sees body parts spread about a golf course. This delves into eco terrorism with a hint of organised crime and the what went on in Northern Ireland.
As a character, Fluke was a decent enough investigator but I couldn't help thinking of Craven's other creation based in Cumbria, Washington Poe. I expected Poe to turn up at any moment with Tilly to aid the investigation.
Some of the scenes are quite graphic and others didn't seem to move the plot forward.
The ending certainly had tension in it and there was enough questions to continue with the series. However I think Poe is the much rounded and interesting character and I get the feeling that's where Craven writing interests lie.
As a character, Fluke was a decent enough investigator but I couldn't help thinking of Craven's other creation based in Cumbria, Washington Poe. I expected Poe to turn up at any moment with Tilly to aid the investigation.
Some of the scenes are quite graphic and others didn't seem to move the plot forward.
The ending certainly had tension in it and there was enough questions to continue with the series. However I think Poe is the much rounded and interesting character and I get the feeling that's where Craven writing interests lie.
August 16, 2023
Ha estat una lectura interessant pel que fa a la trama (el misteri policíac). Però estant acostumada al nivell de la seva serie Washington Poe, he vist que aquesta serie no està a l'alçada. Els personatges estan bé, però meh. La resolució de la trama l'he trobat lleugerament precipitada i en cert moment agafada amb pinces. Amb un últim capítol que literalment, m'ha fet posar els ulls en blanc.
Igualment, crec que és nota la millora en la manera d'escriure de Craven respecte les seves pròximes obres. Per això reconec el valor de la serie DI Avison Fluke, com a medi de creixement per les joies (cada cop millors) que està creant ara.
Igualment, crec que és nota la millora en la manera d'escriure de Craven respecte les seves pròximes obres. Per això reconec el valor de la serie DI Avison Fluke, com a medi de creixement per les joies (cada cop millors) que està creant ara.
January 7, 2020
When a severed hand is found on the third green of Cockermouth Golf Club it leads DI Avison Fluke and the Force Major Incident Team into a very dark and dangerous investigation which has its roots in Cumbria but which takes Fluke into some of the darker areas of his past. There's a discussion amongst the FMIT in Body Breaker about who it was who said that 'golf is a good walk spoiled' and regardless of who was responsible for the phrase there's no doubt that the round of golf at the start of this novel is one that the golfers, and detectives, won't forget in a hurry.
By any stretch if the imagination Body Breaker is a powerful thriller. It's filled with all the twists and turns we have come to expect from this talented writer with a cast of returning characters who literally leap fully formed from the page. The plot, as ever, moves along at a cracking pace, and as we learned from the first book in the series, Fluke is a detective who does things entirely his own way which sometimes means acting in an entirely unorthodox way in order to get results, but hey, this is fiction after all, and a flawed and unconventional lead detective adds a fascinating dimension to another gritty murder investigation which has more than hint towards terrorist activity.
This second book in the series is no less convoluted than the first and whilst it can be read as a stand alone story, there are some finer points of character progression which would be entirely lost without prior knowledge, so my recommendation is that you should start with Born in a Burial Gown and enjoy the series from the start.
Originally published in 2015, the first two novels in the Fluke series are being reissued on the 9th January.
By any stretch if the imagination Body Breaker is a powerful thriller. It's filled with all the twists and turns we have come to expect from this talented writer with a cast of returning characters who literally leap fully formed from the page. The plot, as ever, moves along at a cracking pace, and as we learned from the first book in the series, Fluke is a detective who does things entirely his own way which sometimes means acting in an entirely unorthodox way in order to get results, but hey, this is fiction after all, and a flawed and unconventional lead detective adds a fascinating dimension to another gritty murder investigation which has more than hint towards terrorist activity.
This second book in the series is no less convoluted than the first and whilst it can be read as a stand alone story, there are some finer points of character progression which would be entirely lost without prior knowledge, so my recommendation is that you should start with Born in a Burial Gown and enjoy the series from the start.
Originally published in 2015, the first two novels in the Fluke series are being reissued on the 9th January.
March 22, 2022
[5 stars] Well, I really like Washington Poe and Tilly and Avison Fluke is just as remarkable. This was a pretty complex story but well thought through and with a satisfying ending. I will certainly look forward to the next book by this author.
September 18, 2022
Rating: 4.25
While I prefer the Washington Poe series over this one, I do really hope that the author will continue this series again one day!
This book as a little on the complex side compared to all the other M. W. Craven books I've read, and I had some trouble following a few of the plot details (mainly due to my lack of knowledge regarding British history/culture/etc.), but it was a still a very interesting and well put together story.
While I prefer the Washington Poe series over this one, I do really hope that the author will continue this series again one day!
This book as a little on the complex side compared to all the other M. W. Craven books I've read, and I had some trouble following a few of the plot details (mainly due to my lack of knowledge regarding British history/culture/etc.), but it was a still a very interesting and well put together story.
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