In This Bright Future

DC Smith #5

by Peter Grainger, Gildart Jackson (Narrator)

Listening Length: 9 hours and 18 minutes

Two weeks of rest and recuperation – that’s what the doctor ordered. Detective Sergeant DC Smith could listen to some music, make some of his own and maybe even catch up on his reading; he is almost looking forward to it. And then there is a knock on the door. It’s only his next-door neighbour but it is the beginning of a sequence of events that will bring him face to face with some of the darkest episodes and the most dangerous people from his own past. This is Smith’s fifth investigation but this time it’s personal.

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction, Crime, Detective, Procedural, Mystery Thriller

Audible Audio

First published February 1, 2016

About the author

A British author, the writer Peter Grainger is a well known novelist of mystery fiction, largely focused on detective lead investigations. This his been the prime focus for much of his career, as he takes much of his inspiration from that of other infamous British detectives, such as Inspector Morse. The influence is clearly evident here, as he brings his own detective, DC Smith, to life, along with other books as well. Setting his mysteries firmly within the world of British detective fiction it is clear where his tastes lie as an author of his increasingly popular stories, stories that only increase in popularity as time goes on.

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Difficult subject matter of violence between Northern Ireland and Britain. While this story does not focus exclusively on that and instead a recovery, a pall is cast throughout. 4 of 10 stars

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started this series of a skeptical mind and am now wondering why this series did not find a home with a publishing house. This book was successful on many levels, and it is clear the author had a precise and detailed vision of how he would reveal the layers of character that made D.C. Smith who he is. I have tears in my eyes having just finished this one, though I am launching into the next book without detour.
Smith had his knee surgery, and instead of rest and rehabilitation he takes the long ferry ride over to Belfast where he served 30 years earlier as a British Intelligence undercover plant. The Troubles were personal, and this is where he puts himself in danger yet again because of the tie to one Irish lass.

[Terence M [on a brief semi-hiatus] · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-Stars - I Liked it a Lot!
Another excellent DC Smith story, penalised a little by an over-long explanation at the end. These days, I am no longer drawn to stories based on, or referring to, "The Troubles", a hateful and very sad period for both countries, however DC's story of an earlier life in Northern Ireland was both interesting and somewhat touching. I was not distracted until the last hour or so, and I thought "In This Bright Future" was an enjoyable story, very well narrated by Gildart Jackson.

From my Listening Activity:
Peter Grainger - DC Smith #5 - In This Bright Future
Audible Plus Audiobook: 09:18 Hours - Narrator: Gildart Jackson
Apr 24, 2024 @ 1%: "The next book in this excellent series!"
May 09,2024 @ 49%: "The next book in this excellent series and I am thoroughly enjoying it!"
May 17,2024 @ 81%: "I have resumed listening to the inimitable DC Smith after a short hiatus during which I started and finished Nelson DeMille's "The General's Daughter"😊."
May 22,2024 @ 81%: "Another excellent DC Smith story, penalised a touch by an over-long explanation at the end. Rating and review to follow."

[Micah Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! The best of the D.C. Smith series so far. I love the way the author allows parts of the story to be hidden until the end, changing impressions of what came before. This was an emotional story, and the ending even more so. All the D.C. Smith books refer to events in the prior books - and while one wouldn't have to read them all before, it would be helpful. Highly recommend this series, and especially this book.

[Chrissie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This time, DC is in Northern Ireland, where it has already been hinted he has history, both professionally and romantically.

"The Troubles" in Northern Ireland saw a time of great violence, and, even today, people are still searching for their loved ones who are "the disappeared". DC investigates what has become of the remains of one of these.

The menace comes through the page, but thankfully DC retains his wonderful dry sense of humour.

[Paula Brandle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wit, allusions, and murder- of course.

I loved this book. Character development is ongoing-we call it world building in sci-fi. Some history is added and geography as well. The detective is complex but not noir-the joy for life is present. One of the best mysteries in kindle prime.

[Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can't believe this 5th book is the best of the series (so far). Each one has been 5*...... this one should be 5 1/2! Each book in the series has given us more of DC Smith's back story. We've known from the beginning that as a young man he had been undercover for the British military during the "Troubles" in Northern Ireland. That history comes back in full force when Diarmod Kelly comes to see him in England to ask for help in finding out what happened to his Uncle Brann thirty years before. Thus began a series of events taking place in Belfast as DC's past involvement with an Irish Republican family comes full circle into the present. Having been to Belfast I could appreciate the changes that have taken place since the peace agreement but also how the divisions in the country are never far from view (the gates may be open now but the barbed wire is still on top of the walls, and the gates are firmly closed when the "Orange" marchers are on parade). What I hadn't learned on that visit was about the continuing search for the "disappeared"....to find out what happened to the over 1,000 still missing since the troubles began, and where they might be buried so that families can finally get a sense of closure. As always the writing, character and plot development are beautifully accomplished by the author.

Although the mystery of why DC has been demoted to Sergeant and is now under the supervision of a former mentee has yet to be answered, I have no doubt we will learn the answer in a future installment. In the meantime I can't wait to start #6!

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

For me, this was the best D.C. Smith novel that I have read so far. It's definitely worth 5 stars.

It is a very interesting look at the "Irish Troubles," both at an event involving Smith during that black period as well as the results now in the aftermath of so-called peace. Smith receives a visitor who leaves him with the need to go back to the emerald isle and try and undo some of the damage he unknowingly incurred on one Irish family. The story gives us a great deal of insight into David's personality as we know him today.

One thing that Author Grainger does is leave small hints here and there which sometimes one is apt to miss or ignore. So I'm advising you to pick up on even seemingly unimportant actions in the narrative because it becomes very apparent in the final chapter, just how important one of those occurrences was.

[Annery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great entry into the D.C. Smith world and a fantastic audio.

This is more like a solo project for Smith as "the case" has nothing to do with crime, current or past, in Kings Lake but with Smith's past during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Revelations abound one of which was telegraphed early on but only confirmed at the very end in a very Smith way. What will come of it?

Recommend 10/10

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

The plots of the DC Smith series are pretty good but the main character (male) is terribly chauvinistic.

I’m sure the writer thinks the protagonist is actually very modern because he remarks often about how “strong” his female colleagues are. But he’s always surprised by their strength. It’s very condescending.

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another puzzle piece completed on the life of David Smith. Very interesting stories, with the perfect narrator.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book and the series. Hinted about in prior books in the series, many details about D C Smith's past are revealed in this story. More suspenseful than prior books. D C Smith's exceptional detecting skills and insight are evidenced. If a TV series or movie is made of this book or any others in the series, Michael Kitchen should play D C Smith as the skills and demeanor of Christopher Foyle are much like those of D C Smith. The series should be read in order because there references are made to prior books.

[Jean Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading these in sequence, and every one is better than the one before. These books are about character development, not plot-driven. The people matter. The thought processes of the main character, the changes in the characters lives, these are good reading. I highly recommend the entire series.

[Anita Lynch-Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite DC Smith story so far. DC revisits his past while recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery. The son of an old girlfriend from Belfast visits and asks if DC has information about the disappearance and probable death of his uncle during the troubles. DC was undercover in Belfast with British Intelligence during the troubles.

[Alan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth 6 stars I’m my opinion. This series gets stronger and stronger and is so well written. After reading a few previous reviews I also wonder why a publisher has not snapped the author up. It would be interesting to know if self publishing was choice.

[Claire Tomonaga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wonder why Peter Grainger is not a household name... this series continues to deliver outstanding stories. I had to split my listen as there were several holds on the title. Perhaps word is spreading.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dc Smith does not have his band of merry colleagues on this adventure. We meet new characters and get some backstory. Even DC discovers something new. Another well told tale, with scenes that we remember as if we were there.

[Joanne Talbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative

I knew little of what it was like during that time and place. I feel to story was well told and made you feel like you were there. I recommend reading this story.

[Lavins · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up

This was a heavy one. To read, to journey with, to go through.
My favourite part...somewhat...because, although I understand the why do not like it and I do hope it's not going to stay like this, is the ending. He also deserves better.

[Eliza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really well told story about the past and present effects of The Troubles in Belfast.
DC Smith is a very funny, intelligent and careful man. 30 years ago he was an undercover English policeman in Belfast. He made a lot of friends but his cover was blown and he had to leave the country very quickly. Now 30 years later he’s back in Belfast trying to help the family he was very close to recover the remains of their brother/uncle at the request of his former lover’s son, Kelly.
At his peril, he revisited the men he betrayed. Carefully he pieced it all together and was anonymously given the coordinates of Bran’s grave.
Bran was killed as retaliation for the killing of Aiden Quinn the younger son of one of the king pins, Larken Quinn.
DC shot Aiden the night he fled because Aiden discovered his treachery and was out to kill him. DC only shot him once, but the police report said he had been shot numerous times. And the opposition was blamed. DC confronted Larken with the fact that he allowed the body of his brother to be used in this manner and blackmailed him for the site of Bran’s grave. Larken was now in the government and had a lot to lose so he cooperated.
The “kicker” was that Kelly is DC’s son.
Great characters and narration.

[Kaye Stambaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The DC Smith series by Peter Grainger is excellent, and In This Bright Future is outstanding. In each book, the reader has learned a little more about Smith, making the character more interesting and complex. Here, Smith is taking off a couple of weeks to recuperate from knee surgery but answers a call for assistance in Belfast. We know from previous books that Smith was involved during his younger years in the IRA "troubles", and has had attempts on his life made because of this. Little by little, we learn why Smith would literally risk his life to return to Belfast. I loved the insight into Belfast today, and the impact of its history. Smith continues to be one of the most interesting literary 'coppers' in England. I listened to the Audible version of this book and the narrator, Gildart Jackson is perfect.

[Zbegniew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook of this and the narration is perfect. It is same narrator who has done the previous books in the series and he is ideal for this series.

In previous books, it has been revealed that D. C, Smith served as a British undercover agent in Northern Ireland during The Troubles. But that was 30 years ago. In this book, the past comes calling and he finds himself on the streets of Belfast once again. In trying to find a few answers about the past, he looks up some old "friends" who tried to kill him the past, and just might try again. When he left Belfast in the middle of the night 30 years ago, he left a lover, as well as enemies, behind. But the bodies refuse to stay buried.

In my opinion, this book is the best so far of this excellent series. It deserves to be much better known than it is.

No content warnings to speak of.

[Bebe (Sarah) Brechner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazingly brilliant story

The D.C. Smith series takes a turn into the past - Northern Ireland and Smith's history there 30 years ago as a young, undercover agent in military intelligence. Over the series' books, we've gotten glimpses of this history, and now, in this new story, Smith decides to go back to Belfast on a surprising, personal quest. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this deeply rich, layered story that reaches back into pivotal events that forever shaped the Smith of today. Very rewarding, beautifully written.

[Kate M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written, but I did not like this book as much as Peter Grainger's other books, as it is not a police procedural. In this book, Peter Grainger goes back to his past life as a soldier in Northern Ireland to find the missing brother of a woman/family he befriended while in Northern Ireland.
Not as much humor in this book either.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent series. I wonder why it's not more widely available. The actor who reads them for audiobook is hilarious. Is IS DC Smith. I hope Grainger continues creating DC Smith mysteries.

[Cindy Rollins · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a step up in a very good series. DC Smith heads to Ireland and we get some backstory. Excellent contribution to the series. Love Gildart Jackson's wry voice!

[Elizabeth Danielson · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this fills in background on DC and prepares for the entrance of additional characters in future books, I felt that it was a deviation from the other books and not as engaging.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting story set in Northern Ireland and dealing with the 'Disappeared', people who vanished during the 'Troubles'.

[Nilesh Jasani · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the shadowed corridors of memory, where old betrayals linger like the fog over the Fens, the author conjures a tale that might have slipped from the desk of some retired Circus operative, a narrative as impeccably le Carré as one could wish. Drawing upon DC Smith's enigmatic history, he crafts a novel of exquisite restraint. From the start of a decade-old treachery, the story turns into a taut web that never slackens.

The series’ usual exploration of moral equivocations is wielded with the precision of a scalpel, forging a story rich in suspense, fraught with tension, and imbued with profound humanity. The familiar rhythms of detective procedure serve as the unassuming thread that binds the plot. The author removes the clamour of routine police intrigue, allowing the deeper historic and personal currents to claim their rightful precedence.

Smith of the book is different, even when he is all the same: he has the same wry, world-weary eloquence, but here his voice has the echoes of the cerebral detachment of a Smiley. While navigating a landscape of half-truths and hidden motives, he displays acuity that once defined the masters of the Great Game. The twists, those elegant feints of counter-espionage and its inevitable counters, unfold with a subtlety that delights even as it disquiets, leading to a climax of rare satisfaction—clean, inevitable, and utterly devoid of histrionics.

The book stands as a singular achievement: a procedural transmuted into something far more elusive, a spy story masquerading as mere detection, and a testament to the enduring power of the unsaid. And, for sure, I have never read a series where the fifth book was so perfect.

[Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did it keep my interest? 5. My fifth DC Smith listen and the best yet.

Did I enjoy the topic? 4.5. Irish politics are at the center of this personal mission for Smith. The mystery is straight forward. The detecting is old school and dangerous. There is a surprising amount of emotion in this one, which caught me off guard a bit, in a very welcome way. As always, I laugh at Smith’s sarcasm. Grainger is great at writing sarcasm.

Was the dialogue realistic? 5. Smith always thinks well ahead. I like that we are led along with him as it happens, instead of a wrap up summary showing how smart the detective is.

Would I recommend to Jen (smart, discerning reader)? 5. I believe she is enjoying her first DC Smith as we speak.

Would I have recommended to my Mom (read for entertainment)? 5 As stated previously, a perfect series for Mom.

Quality of narrator? 5. Gildart Jackson at the top of his craft.
I see that he’s married to Melora Hardin, who plays Steve Carrell’s love interest in The Office.