What do you think?
Rate this book
Kent Fisher Mysteries #1
No Accident
A former gangster is dead. It looks like an accident. Only Kent Fisher suspects murder.
When the police decide Syd Collins’ death is a work accident, they hand over the investigation to environmental health officer, Kent Fisher, a man with more baggage than an airport carousel.
He defies a restraining order to enter Tombstone Adventure Park and confronts the owner, Miles Birchill, who has his own reasons for blocking the investigation. Thwarted at every turn, Kent's forced to bend the rules and is suspended from duty.
He battles on, unearthing secrets and corruption that could destroy those he loves. With his personal and professional worlds on a collision course, he knows life will never be the same again.
If he survives ...
Inspired by Agatha Christie and Sue Grafton, No Accident is the first novel in an exciting murder mystery series featuring a unique detective.
‘Agatha Christie fans will love it.’ Tamara McKinley.
When the police decide Syd Collins’ death is a work accident, they hand over the investigation to environmental health officer, Kent Fisher, a man with more baggage than an airport carousel.
He defies a restraining order to enter Tombstone Adventure Park and confronts the owner, Miles Birchill, who has his own reasons for blocking the investigation. Thwarted at every turn, Kent's forced to bend the rules and is suspended from duty.
He battles on, unearthing secrets and corruption that could destroy those he loves. With his personal and professional worlds on a collision course, he knows life will never be the same again.
If he survives ...
Inspired by Agatha Christie and Sue Grafton, No Accident is the first novel in an exciting murder mystery series featuring a unique detective.
‘Agatha Christie fans will love it.’ Tamara McKinley.
294 pages, ebook
First published June 19, 2016
About the author
Robert Crouch
14 books18 followersWhat if the person who solves the murder isn't a detective but an ordinary man thrust into the role?
That's the idea behind Kent Fisher, the unconventional sleuth at the heart of my Downland Murder Mystery series. With a sharp eye for detail and a wry sense of humour, Kent is just the kind of character to keep you turning pages, whether you’re in the mood for a gripping mystery or a heart-warming twist.
With contemporary themes, quirky humour, and a dash of romance, the Downland Murder Mysteries offer a fresh, exciting twist on the classic whodunit.
Set in the picturesque South Downs, the Downland Murder Mysteries blend intricate plotting with vibrant character dynamics, offering more than just a typical whodunit. Expect thrilling twists, quirky suspects, and a touch of local flavour that brings the stories to life. The books explore contemporary issues with both humour and heart—making each mystery as entertaining as it is suspenseful.
If you love cosy crime novels with complex plots, relatable characters, and a dash of wit, the Downland Murder Mysteries are perfect for you. Every book is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly flipping pages until the very last twist. Whether you're a fan of Agatha Christie’s timeless mysteries or Richard Osman’s modern charm, you’ll feel right at home with Kent Fisher’s adventures.
With over two decades of experience as an environmental health officer, I draw on my deep understanding of human behaviour, motivations, and investigation to craft mysteries that feel both realistic and captivating. My background allows me to weave in complex details that make the crimes in the Downland Murder Mysteries not just engaging, but authentic.
Fans of classic whodunits, cosy mysteries, and modern crime thrillers will enjoy the Downland Murder Mystery series. Each book combines suspense, wit, and unforgettable characters in a series that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
For more updates, insider news, and exclusive giveaways, including a free short story, be sure to join my Readers Group. You'll find the details on my website at https://robertcrouch.co.uk.
That's the idea behind Kent Fisher, the unconventional sleuth at the heart of my Downland Murder Mystery series. With a sharp eye for detail and a wry sense of humour, Kent is just the kind of character to keep you turning pages, whether you’re in the mood for a gripping mystery or a heart-warming twist.
With contemporary themes, quirky humour, and a dash of romance, the Downland Murder Mysteries offer a fresh, exciting twist on the classic whodunit.
Set in the picturesque South Downs, the Downland Murder Mysteries blend intricate plotting with vibrant character dynamics, offering more than just a typical whodunit. Expect thrilling twists, quirky suspects, and a touch of local flavour that brings the stories to life. The books explore contemporary issues with both humour and heart—making each mystery as entertaining as it is suspenseful.
If you love cosy crime novels with complex plots, relatable characters, and a dash of wit, the Downland Murder Mysteries are perfect for you. Every book is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly flipping pages until the very last twist. Whether you're a fan of Agatha Christie’s timeless mysteries or Richard Osman’s modern charm, you’ll feel right at home with Kent Fisher’s adventures.
With over two decades of experience as an environmental health officer, I draw on my deep understanding of human behaviour, motivations, and investigation to craft mysteries that feel both realistic and captivating. My background allows me to weave in complex details that make the crimes in the Downland Murder Mysteries not just engaging, but authentic.
Fans of classic whodunits, cosy mysteries, and modern crime thrillers will enjoy the Downland Murder Mystery series. Each book combines suspense, wit, and unforgettable characters in a series that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
For more updates, insider news, and exclusive giveaways, including a free short story, be sure to join my Readers Group. You'll find the details on my website at https://robertcrouch.co.uk.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 12, 2020
A different read where the Environmental Health Officer Kent Fisher was at the helm of the investigation of the murder of his colleague.
A slow moving story with many subplots, the story was fun to read in most parts. The plot lines were well crafted, the dialogues were okay but didn't pull me in certain sections as I didn't like the the way women were described. But that can be purely me as I expected something more.
The mid section meandered, but the final reveal of the Killer was great. Overall, a good read.
A slow moving story with many subplots, the story was fun to read in most parts. The plot lines were well crafted, the dialogues were okay but didn't pull me in certain sections as I didn't like the the way women were described. But that can be purely me as I expected something more.
The mid section meandered, but the final reveal of the Killer was great. Overall, a good read.
August 26, 2017
Sydney Collins’ body is found in the middle of a field, the apparent victim of a brutal attack by tractor. But Sydney had no business being in that field and certainly not early in the morning, wearing a tie.
Enter Kent Fisher, an environmental health officer who needs to determine how this accident happened and who’s responsible. Kent was introduced to Columbo at the age of 16 and ever since, he’s always wanted to solve a murder. Could this be his opportunity? Or is he seeing things that aren’t there? Could Sydney’s death really just be an unfortunate accident?
Kent finds resistance from various corners during his investigation. There’s his boss, who does everything by the book. There’s the local celebrity and playboy millionaire, Miles Birchill, who clearly has something to hide. And then there’s Kent’s father, a government minister, who would really prefer it if Kent dropped his investigation. But why? Three words : can of worms.
It’s hard not to like Kent. He’s tenacious, determined and not afraid to break the rules. He also has a delightful sense of gallows humour and a lovely level of sarcasm that I always appreciate. He’s conscious of the environment, determined to protect it, fight the powers that be to do the same and his daytime job pays the bills for his animal sanctuary in an area of the South Downs he absolutely adores.
This is quite a complicated plot and it involves a lot of players. It’s up to Kent and his colleague Gemma to unravel the various threads of secrets, lies and deceit. Some of which will affect Kent in ways he couldn’t possibly have imagined. With a few twists and turns, this was an entertaining and enjoyable mystery and I can honestly say I’ve never before read a story where the investigator is an environmental health officer. So if you’re looking for something akin to a police procedural but with a bit of a difference, this could be right up your alley!
Enter Kent Fisher, an environmental health officer who needs to determine how this accident happened and who’s responsible. Kent was introduced to Columbo at the age of 16 and ever since, he’s always wanted to solve a murder. Could this be his opportunity? Or is he seeing things that aren’t there? Could Sydney’s death really just be an unfortunate accident?
Kent finds resistance from various corners during his investigation. There’s his boss, who does everything by the book. There’s the local celebrity and playboy millionaire, Miles Birchill, who clearly has something to hide. And then there’s Kent’s father, a government minister, who would really prefer it if Kent dropped his investigation. But why? Three words : can of worms.
It’s hard not to like Kent. He’s tenacious, determined and not afraid to break the rules. He also has a delightful sense of gallows humour and a lovely level of sarcasm that I always appreciate. He’s conscious of the environment, determined to protect it, fight the powers that be to do the same and his daytime job pays the bills for his animal sanctuary in an area of the South Downs he absolutely adores.
This is quite a complicated plot and it involves a lot of players. It’s up to Kent and his colleague Gemma to unravel the various threads of secrets, lies and deceit. Some of which will affect Kent in ways he couldn’t possibly have imagined. With a few twists and turns, this was an entertaining and enjoyable mystery and I can honestly say I’ve never before read a story where the investigator is an environmental health officer. So if you’re looking for something akin to a police procedural but with a bit of a difference, this could be right up your alley!
April 6, 2018
Oh I was in my glory on the first page of this book as soon as I met Kent Fisher. He had been on an all nighter with the lads, just got in and was wishing someone dead already, well he had been told that there was a body, so fingers crossed! Ok Kent is an Environmental Officer that had just got in from an all night badger watch with ten other like-minded blokes and the only thing that was igniting his interest that morning was a phone call about a fatal accident at the Tombstone Adventure Park. As Kent already had a restraining order against him regarding the owner, he was hoping against all the odds that it was him.
Now it was a pretty gruesome sight that met Kent but he dealt with it the way the rest of his colleagues did, with very close to the bone type of humour and a strong stomach. The more he saw the more he was doubting that this was accidental. So whether it was lack of sleep at this point or just opportunity knocking Kent saw it as a chance to play detective. He was after all Columbo’s biggest fan and things were just not sitting right with the whole accident theory. He had already been let down about who the victim was, not the owner, so playing detective was the next best thing.
I just loved the constant humour that kept rolling from these pages as it really did lighten the gruesome side. Running alongside the suspected murder investigation, you see many sides to Kent, especially as the son of a wealthy politician and on the flip side a man who was keen to spread the word about looking after wildlife. Hence Kent’s very own animal sanctuary, that his father helped fund, with conditions, well he is a politician remember! There is another soft side to Kent too but he is a little backward in coming forward in the love department. There are such a lot of characters in this story but the ones that matter do really stand out. Shocks, surprises and a cupboard full of family skeletons make it all a compelling read.
This is a cracking idea that author Robert Crouch has come up with, being an Environmental Officer for a number of years he used what he knew best and combined it with his love of classic and new crime writers, to invent his own spin on the murder mystery scene. It works a dream and very unique.
Now it was a pretty gruesome sight that met Kent but he dealt with it the way the rest of his colleagues did, with very close to the bone type of humour and a strong stomach. The more he saw the more he was doubting that this was accidental. So whether it was lack of sleep at this point or just opportunity knocking Kent saw it as a chance to play detective. He was after all Columbo’s biggest fan and things were just not sitting right with the whole accident theory. He had already been let down about who the victim was, not the owner, so playing detective was the next best thing.
I just loved the constant humour that kept rolling from these pages as it really did lighten the gruesome side. Running alongside the suspected murder investigation, you see many sides to Kent, especially as the son of a wealthy politician and on the flip side a man who was keen to spread the word about looking after wildlife. Hence Kent’s very own animal sanctuary, that his father helped fund, with conditions, well he is a politician remember! There is another soft side to Kent too but he is a little backward in coming forward in the love department. There are such a lot of characters in this story but the ones that matter do really stand out. Shocks, surprises and a cupboard full of family skeletons make it all a compelling read.
This is a cracking idea that author Robert Crouch has come up with, being an Environmental Officer for a number of years he used what he knew best and combined it with his love of classic and new crime writers, to invent his own spin on the murder mystery scene. It works a dream and very unique.
August 28, 2017
I do love a book that’s different, and this one is, in buckets! At one level, it’s a standard murder mystery, but at another, there are no police in sight. The man of the hour, Kent Fisher, is an Environmental Health Officer. He’s investigating a suspicious death in which a vital guard has been moved from a machine. He suspects it’s no accident and digs up a whole nest of hornets as he follows his instincts.
I enjoyed this hugely. Kent is an environmentalist, keeps a money-draining animal sanctuary and longs for a lady he can’t have. There’s lots going on in this book, plenty of characters and you need your wits about you. There’s also, considering the subject, a great deal of humour, sometimes witty, sometimes sarcastic and it acts like yeast in a bread mix. Lightens it and makes it wholesome. I have a new fictional hero! I very much enjoyed this story and look forward to the next.
I enjoyed this hugely. Kent is an environmentalist, keeps a money-draining animal sanctuary and longs for a lady he can’t have. There’s lots going on in this book, plenty of characters and you need your wits about you. There’s also, considering the subject, a great deal of humour, sometimes witty, sometimes sarcastic and it acts like yeast in a bread mix. Lightens it and makes it wholesome. I have a new fictional hero! I very much enjoyed this story and look forward to the next.
August 22, 2017
The first time Environmental Health Officer Kent Fisher saw Columbo, he knew that was how he wanted to investigate and now his chance has come. He has to examine an apparently work-related accident at Tombstone Adventure Park, owned by his long-time adversary, Miles Birchill
| Introduction |
A Kent Fisher Mystery #1
Environmental Health Officer Kent Fisher feels he is “the best officer to investigate this accident, and probably the worst.” His detestation for Miles Birchill arose when the latter sacrificed 500 acres of England’s stunning South Downs to build his Tombstone Adventure Park. Kent and many others fought in vain to stop it. If only the (work-related) accidental death he is called to investigate could be that of Miles Birchill! No such luck though. The deceased is a certain Collins, an employee of Birchill and the two of them have a strange boss-employee relationship as Collins refused to do Birchill’s work. So why was he found dead next to the object that killed him, a tractor? Only one man can get to the bottom of this: Kent Fisher.
| Storyline |
Together with his lovely assistant, Gemma, Kent Fisher examines the scene of the accident and he wants nothing more than to place the blame for the accident firmly with the owner of the Adventure Park, Miles Birchill. However, the Police are convinced that it is a tragic and self-inflicted accident and thus they lay the blame with Collins himself. Kent Fisher cannot but wonder why the man should have wanted to wear a tie to work with a tractor? Come to think of it, Collins pointedly refused to do such work – so why today of all days should he start at the unholy hour of six am? Furthermore, Collins was a generally loathed character whose death will not be mourned by many. The new Coroner’s Officer, Carolyn Montague, needs evidence if she is to request a suspicious death investigation. Then there is the jogger, Cheung, who was so unfortunate as to discover the mutilated body…
Much opposed to Kent’s presence on the farm is Miles Birchill who immediately seizes the opportunity to mention the Court Order, prohibiting Kent from entering Tombstone. The reason for this Court Order? Well, at their previous encounter, Kent had “emptied the contents of a muck spreader into his (Birchill’s) convertible” in a last ditch attempt to stop the inevitable. Not even Kent’s father, “the Conservative MP for Downland“, had been able to stop Birchill’s scheme. Now Kent lives on a small part of what used to be his father’s estate, where his animal sanctuary including Columbo, the dog, is in desperate need of funds. All Kent wants, is to keep his sanctuary and continue to live “at the foot of the majestic South Downs“, the place he loves. Antagonising Miles Birchill may very well mean his dismissal but Kent, like his favourite detective Columbo, sinks his teeth into the case, believing the death of Collins to be no accident. In doing so, he blunders into long hidden secrets and comes close to jeopardising everything….
| My Thoughts |
This is quite an extraordinary detective thriller and I loved it. The author’s love for the South Downs and its surroundings shimmers through almost every sentence and is the motivating power behind the actions of his protagonist, Kent Fisher. A novel idea, to have an Environmental Health Officer investigating accidents (murders?). By doing so, the author opens up so many possibilities and I have to say that grabbing lunch whilst working will never feel the same again! Who would not love Kent, the man who is living on a small part of what used to be his father’s ancestral estate? Kent Fisher believes in what he does, in preserving our natural environment and in contributing to its upkeep. Like the author, Kent loves detectives and the American Lieutenant Columbo is his favourite. That is why he has called the dog who came to his animal sanctuary, Columbo, and this endears him even more to me. There is also a stubbornness behind his exterior, a man who prefers actions to explanations and who would rather give an unfavourable impression than show the depth of his feelings.
With Robert Crouch, I share a love for detectives (Agatha Christie is my all-time favourite author). Therefore, it will come as no surprise that I love his expertly written detective novel. I enjoyed reading this book with its cunning plot, its surprises and the humour shining through in his astute descriptions of characters and situations (for instance, of Kent’s shirt) and delighted in the beautiful depictive wording the author uses to tell us about the stunning nature of the South Downs. I cannot wait for the next instalment in the series: No Bodies.
Read the review on my website:https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/no-acc...
| Introduction |
A Kent Fisher Mystery #1
Environmental Health Officer Kent Fisher feels he is “the best officer to investigate this accident, and probably the worst.” His detestation for Miles Birchill arose when the latter sacrificed 500 acres of England’s stunning South Downs to build his Tombstone Adventure Park. Kent and many others fought in vain to stop it. If only the (work-related) accidental death he is called to investigate could be that of Miles Birchill! No such luck though. The deceased is a certain Collins, an employee of Birchill and the two of them have a strange boss-employee relationship as Collins refused to do Birchill’s work. So why was he found dead next to the object that killed him, a tractor? Only one man can get to the bottom of this: Kent Fisher.
| Storyline |
Together with his lovely assistant, Gemma, Kent Fisher examines the scene of the accident and he wants nothing more than to place the blame for the accident firmly with the owner of the Adventure Park, Miles Birchill. However, the Police are convinced that it is a tragic and self-inflicted accident and thus they lay the blame with Collins himself. Kent Fisher cannot but wonder why the man should have wanted to wear a tie to work with a tractor? Come to think of it, Collins pointedly refused to do such work – so why today of all days should he start at the unholy hour of six am? Furthermore, Collins was a generally loathed character whose death will not be mourned by many. The new Coroner’s Officer, Carolyn Montague, needs evidence if she is to request a suspicious death investigation. Then there is the jogger, Cheung, who was so unfortunate as to discover the mutilated body…
Much opposed to Kent’s presence on the farm is Miles Birchill who immediately seizes the opportunity to mention the Court Order, prohibiting Kent from entering Tombstone. The reason for this Court Order? Well, at their previous encounter, Kent had “emptied the contents of a muck spreader into his (Birchill’s) convertible” in a last ditch attempt to stop the inevitable. Not even Kent’s father, “the Conservative MP for Downland“, had been able to stop Birchill’s scheme. Now Kent lives on a small part of what used to be his father’s estate, where his animal sanctuary including Columbo, the dog, is in desperate need of funds. All Kent wants, is to keep his sanctuary and continue to live “at the foot of the majestic South Downs“, the place he loves. Antagonising Miles Birchill may very well mean his dismissal but Kent, like his favourite detective Columbo, sinks his teeth into the case, believing the death of Collins to be no accident. In doing so, he blunders into long hidden secrets and comes close to jeopardising everything….
| My Thoughts |
This is quite an extraordinary detective thriller and I loved it. The author’s love for the South Downs and its surroundings shimmers through almost every sentence and is the motivating power behind the actions of his protagonist, Kent Fisher. A novel idea, to have an Environmental Health Officer investigating accidents (murders?). By doing so, the author opens up so many possibilities and I have to say that grabbing lunch whilst working will never feel the same again! Who would not love Kent, the man who is living on a small part of what used to be his father’s ancestral estate? Kent Fisher believes in what he does, in preserving our natural environment and in contributing to its upkeep. Like the author, Kent loves detectives and the American Lieutenant Columbo is his favourite. That is why he has called the dog who came to his animal sanctuary, Columbo, and this endears him even more to me. There is also a stubbornness behind his exterior, a man who prefers actions to explanations and who would rather give an unfavourable impression than show the depth of his feelings.
With Robert Crouch, I share a love for detectives (Agatha Christie is my all-time favourite author). Therefore, it will come as no surprise that I love his expertly written detective novel. I enjoyed reading this book with its cunning plot, its surprises and the humour shining through in his astute descriptions of characters and situations (for instance, of Kent’s shirt) and delighted in the beautiful depictive wording the author uses to tell us about the stunning nature of the South Downs. I cannot wait for the next instalment in the series: No Bodies.
Read the review on my website:https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/no-acc...
August 10, 2018
Laboured
I really wanted to like this, but didn’t. The wisecracking narrative grated as did the old fashioned commentary on the physical attributes of just the female characters
I really wanted to like this, but didn’t. The wisecracking narrative grated as did the old fashioned commentary on the physical attributes of just the female characters
October 28, 2022
If you’re looking for a refreshingly different take on the mystery thriller, No Accident has to be high on your list. It had me fully engaged within the first couple of pages, and fully delivered on the promise. It’s very well written, with a striking feel for place (notably England’s south coast downland), and comes over as remarkably assured for a first novel.
It’s told in the first person with more than a little ironic wit by Kent Fisher, who has the seemingly unlikely job of environmental health officer in a fictitious country town near Eastbourne in East Sussex. If you think that sounds unpromising, think again. He has all the investigative instincts of a police officer, and some of a police officer’s authority (though never enough). He’s also a former anti-development activist who runs an animal sanctuary in his spare time, and is a teetotaller: an unusual mix that makes for a compelling leading man.
In this opening novel, a small-time thug has met an untimely end in an argument with a piece of farm equipment not far from a wild west theme park. Fisher has to decide whether it was an accident or murder, and whether the theme park’s sleazy entrepreneur owner is involved.
Fisher can be impulsive, and doesn’t always make the wisest of decisions, but he’s tough-minded enough to ride out the constant resistance he encounters from witnesses, suspects and even some of his colleagues, and he's determined to find answers.
The book buzzes with vivid three-dimensional characters and knowing, grown-up dialogue, and you soon realise that a key back story involves Fisher’s complicated love life. He hankers after the much younger Gemma, a sprightly and engaging colleague with whom he once had a brief fling, but he has commitment issues, and is wary of getting into relationships that won’t work.
That doesn’t seem to stop him from flirting (usually harmlessly) with the various women he meets during his investigations; yet you feel that ultimately he wants to do the right thing, even though he can’t work out what that is.
No Accident is written in the present tense, gaining the urgency and drive that this technique can provide. It’s quite a complex story with various strands of sub-plot, so you’ll need to be attentive to fix all the characters and their motivations in your mind, but the book repays the effort.
It’s told in the first person with more than a little ironic wit by Kent Fisher, who has the seemingly unlikely job of environmental health officer in a fictitious country town near Eastbourne in East Sussex. If you think that sounds unpromising, think again. He has all the investigative instincts of a police officer, and some of a police officer’s authority (though never enough). He’s also a former anti-development activist who runs an animal sanctuary in his spare time, and is a teetotaller: an unusual mix that makes for a compelling leading man.
In this opening novel, a small-time thug has met an untimely end in an argument with a piece of farm equipment not far from a wild west theme park. Fisher has to decide whether it was an accident or murder, and whether the theme park’s sleazy entrepreneur owner is involved.
Fisher can be impulsive, and doesn’t always make the wisest of decisions, but he’s tough-minded enough to ride out the constant resistance he encounters from witnesses, suspects and even some of his colleagues, and he's determined to find answers.
The book buzzes with vivid three-dimensional characters and knowing, grown-up dialogue, and you soon realise that a key back story involves Fisher’s complicated love life. He hankers after the much younger Gemma, a sprightly and engaging colleague with whom he once had a brief fling, but he has commitment issues, and is wary of getting into relationships that won’t work.
That doesn’t seem to stop him from flirting (usually harmlessly) with the various women he meets during his investigations; yet you feel that ultimately he wants to do the right thing, even though he can’t work out what that is.
No Accident is written in the present tense, gaining the urgency and drive that this technique can provide. It’s quite a complex story with various strands of sub-plot, so you’ll need to be attentive to fix all the characters and their motivations in your mind, but the book repays the effort.
May 31, 2020
When Syd Collins is found dead, the police decide it’s a work accident so call in Kent Fisher, Environmental Health Officer to investigate. But Kent’s not convinced…… Obsessed with Columbo, he thinks there is more to it than first meets the eye, so sets out to investigate. The only problem is, Syd is linked to Miles Birchill….and Kent and him have (not good!) history.
To investigate Kent must break a number of rules including breaking his restraining order, and ends up suspended. But that doesn’t stop him! With his trusty assistant Gemma, he continues to look into the death and uncovers more than he anticipates……secrets that will change his life forever.
From beginning to end I was sucked in to the story with suspicious people all around! As I’ve come to expect from this series, I was trying to figure it out myself and got it wrong every time – I couldn’t have even guessed some of the twists that show up in this story!
As for the characters….well there’s Kent. He is a loveable rogue!! He is persistent and will break whatever rules are necessary to get him where he needs to be. He’s flirting with the ladies will have you chuckling (and cringing sometimes) and the fact that he is deeply in love with someone (not saying who!) will make you hope for him that something comes of it. He can spin a lie in seconds and his approaches to people are fantastic. He has had a tough backstory, which we learn about in this book and things don’t get any easier for him, poor guy! One of the things I really love about him, is his love for animals. He likes animals more than he likes people and I completely identify with that!!
In terms of the other characters, I do like Gemma although she gets on my nerves at times! I can just imagine this glamorous girl turning up in the most inappropriate outfits and footwear!! Birchill is something else, but my feelings did change for him throughout the book……. I love Frances and Niamh, both lovely and warm characters. And then there are always the people that you will love to hate!
As with the other books I’ve read by Robert, No Accident is easy and thoroughly enjoyable to read and follow. It sucks you in, makes you laugh, has you waiting with baited breath and delivers when it should. The sense of mystery is fantastic and you’ll love going along with Kent on his wayward investigations! If you’re a murder mystery fan, or looking to try out a new genre, then you should definitely check this series out. Highly recommended by me!
To investigate Kent must break a number of rules including breaking his restraining order, and ends up suspended. But that doesn’t stop him! With his trusty assistant Gemma, he continues to look into the death and uncovers more than he anticipates……secrets that will change his life forever.
From beginning to end I was sucked in to the story with suspicious people all around! As I’ve come to expect from this series, I was trying to figure it out myself and got it wrong every time – I couldn’t have even guessed some of the twists that show up in this story!
As for the characters….well there’s Kent. He is a loveable rogue!! He is persistent and will break whatever rules are necessary to get him where he needs to be. He’s flirting with the ladies will have you chuckling (and cringing sometimes) and the fact that he is deeply in love with someone (not saying who!) will make you hope for him that something comes of it. He can spin a lie in seconds and his approaches to people are fantastic. He has had a tough backstory, which we learn about in this book and things don’t get any easier for him, poor guy! One of the things I really love about him, is his love for animals. He likes animals more than he likes people and I completely identify with that!!
In terms of the other characters, I do like Gemma although she gets on my nerves at times! I can just imagine this glamorous girl turning up in the most inappropriate outfits and footwear!! Birchill is something else, but my feelings did change for him throughout the book……. I love Frances and Niamh, both lovely and warm characters. And then there are always the people that you will love to hate!
As with the other books I’ve read by Robert, No Accident is easy and thoroughly enjoyable to read and follow. It sucks you in, makes you laugh, has you waiting with baited breath and delivers when it should. The sense of mystery is fantastic and you’ll love going along with Kent on his wayward investigations! If you’re a murder mystery fan, or looking to try out a new genre, then you should definitely check this series out. Highly recommended by me!
September 21, 2024
A well-written whodunnit murder mystery which manages to be original while conforming to the genre.
Kent Fisher is everything you would expect the protagonist of a murder mystery to be. He has an antagonistic past relationship with the chief suspect, he has a colourful history and traumatic personal life, he fails to play by the rules (which gets him suspended, of course!), he has a glamorous (though not stupid) side-kick, he cracks not-very-good jokes, he picks up on inconsequential details and his obsession with the case leads to a situation where he could lose everything. But, uniquely in my experience, he is an Environmental Health Officer who normally checks the hygiene standards of restaurants (and this corner of East Sussex appears to specialise in filthy kitchens) but on this occasion is called to investigate what appears to be a fatal work accident.
Which means, of course, no forensic team taking the guesswork out of the investigation and ruining the fun.
It's an energetic and convoluted classic of the genre. It started sedately, with some original settings, convincingly described, and the careful development of some fascinating characters. Around the half-way mark, the pace picks up and the revelations and twists start to pour in. In the final quarter, the hunt for the killer becomes a thrilling chase with heavily built henchmen, secret passages and guns.
I wasn't entirely convinced by the final solution to the crime and there were perhaps too many characters (next time I'll write a list). But who could fail to be entertained by a story that has everyone and everything including a cabinet minister, a sleazy casino owner, a Wild West theme park, a family that dates to before the Conquest, a stately home turned into a hotel, an animal rescue centre and a Westie named Columbo? It even included advice on how to clean a microwave oven: “Half fill a jug of water and add a few drops of lemon juice. Two to three minutes on full power and the steam will lift the grease." (Ch 54)
This was a well-written page-turner that took me for a fun romp across the South Downs.
Kent Fisher is everything you would expect the protagonist of a murder mystery to be. He has an antagonistic past relationship with the chief suspect, he has a colourful history and traumatic personal life, he fails to play by the rules (which gets him suspended, of course!), he has a glamorous (though not stupid) side-kick, he cracks not-very-good jokes, he picks up on inconsequential details and his obsession with the case leads to a situation where he could lose everything. But, uniquely in my experience, he is an Environmental Health Officer who normally checks the hygiene standards of restaurants (and this corner of East Sussex appears to specialise in filthy kitchens) but on this occasion is called to investigate what appears to be a fatal work accident.
Which means, of course, no forensic team taking the guesswork out of the investigation and ruining the fun.
It's an energetic and convoluted classic of the genre. It started sedately, with some original settings, convincingly described, and the careful development of some fascinating characters. Around the half-way mark, the pace picks up and the revelations and twists start to pour in. In the final quarter, the hunt for the killer becomes a thrilling chase with heavily built henchmen, secret passages and guns.
I wasn't entirely convinced by the final solution to the crime and there were perhaps too many characters (next time I'll write a list). But who could fail to be entertained by a story that has everyone and everything including a cabinet minister, a sleazy casino owner, a Wild West theme park, a family that dates to before the Conquest, a stately home turned into a hotel, an animal rescue centre and a Westie named Columbo? It even included advice on how to clean a microwave oven: “Half fill a jug of water and add a few drops of lemon juice. Two to three minutes on full power and the steam will lift the grease." (Ch 54)
This was a well-written page-turner that took me for a fun romp across the South Downs.
September 9, 2017
Firstly I would like to thank Robert Crouch and blog tour organiser Caroline Vincent, for the ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
No Accident is a clever, original and highly enjoyable thriller. I loved that the lead character is neither a police officer or a private investigator! He is an environmental health officer, who carries around with him a troubled past and an even more uncertain future.
Kent Fisher is a wonderful creation by Robert Crouch, a man who loves conspiracy theories and solves crimes while undertaking his day job and running his beloved animal sanctuary. It’s like a breath of fresh air to discover a lead character who is neither a disulusioned police officer or a downbeat private eye. Kent is a modern creation for a new breed of thrillers!
The story is so well crafted I felt certain the writer had a back catalogue of books I could immerse myself in, yet, it’s his first book and he writes with confidence and great skill. It’s peppered with twists and turns that will wrong foot you throughout, so much so, that it’s like getting lost in a maze, only to be shown the way out at the last minute, guided by the author. The story is allowed to develop as you get to know the characters and I was delighted to discover that Robert Crouch paid as much attention to plot as he does to the personalities of his characters.
If you are looking for a thriller with a difference then No Accident is the book for you!
I enjoyed it immensely and I’m looking forward to spending more time with the highly likeable Kent Fisher in the next in the series.
No Accident is a clever, original and highly enjoyable thriller. I loved that the lead character is neither a police officer or a private investigator! He is an environmental health officer, who carries around with him a troubled past and an even more uncertain future.
Kent Fisher is a wonderful creation by Robert Crouch, a man who loves conspiracy theories and solves crimes while undertaking his day job and running his beloved animal sanctuary. It’s like a breath of fresh air to discover a lead character who is neither a disulusioned police officer or a downbeat private eye. Kent is a modern creation for a new breed of thrillers!
The story is so well crafted I felt certain the writer had a back catalogue of books I could immerse myself in, yet, it’s his first book and he writes with confidence and great skill. It’s peppered with twists and turns that will wrong foot you throughout, so much so, that it’s like getting lost in a maze, only to be shown the way out at the last minute, guided by the author. The story is allowed to develop as you get to know the characters and I was delighted to discover that Robert Crouch paid as much attention to plot as he does to the personalities of his characters.
If you are looking for a thriller with a difference then No Accident is the book for you!
I enjoyed it immensely and I’m looking forward to spending more time with the highly likeable Kent Fisher in the next in the series.
September 9, 2017
Environmental health officer Kent Fisher gets more than he bargained for when called to investigate a worker's death at an adventure park. Faced with a gory, but apparently innocent mishap, his particular way of doing things throws him into conflict with his colleagues, his father and a millionaire playboy. Threatened with suspension, Kent must find out what really happened before he lands himself on the dole queue. But is he just being over-cautious, or is there something very wrong here?
This is the second book I've read by Robert Crouch and I have to say, it's a cracker. Crouch has created a brand new hero, whose day-to-day work pits him against dirty kitchens and lackadaisical attitudes to hygiene. However, while the environmental issues still play an essential role in this tale of mystery and intrigue, the emphasis is very much on the character's ability to work out exactly what has happened and bring to justice whoever is to blame.
I really like the author's descriptions of the South Downs landscape, its people and places, but it's his ability to make readers laugh, while at the same time keeping them in suspense, that really cracks it. If you love mysteries and off-beat investigators, this'll be right up your environmental street.
This is the second book I've read by Robert Crouch and I have to say, it's a cracker. Crouch has created a brand new hero, whose day-to-day work pits him against dirty kitchens and lackadaisical attitudes to hygiene. However, while the environmental issues still play an essential role in this tale of mystery and intrigue, the emphasis is very much on the character's ability to work out exactly what has happened and bring to justice whoever is to blame.
I really like the author's descriptions of the South Downs landscape, its people and places, but it's his ability to make readers laugh, while at the same time keeping them in suspense, that really cracks it. If you love mysteries and off-beat investigators, this'll be right up your environmental street.
April 12, 2018
Set in the rolling South Downs you get to meet Kent Fisher, an Environmental Health Officer as well as his friends, colleagues and family. After the death of Syndey Collins, Kent is called in to investigate. Why an EHO on a death? Oops did I forget to mention that Sydney and a PTO shaft on a tractor had a coming together some how! Along with this there are various other things that have implications in this intriguing case. Accident or No Accident?
There are several story lines running through this story as Kent looks into whether the accident was work related and therefore within his powers to look into. Run ins with a local businessman doesn’t really help matters especially when he and Kent have a not so sociable history. You also get a history of Kent as he grew up and also his life now and the changes he has made that see him as not only a EH Officer but also the owner of a struggling animal sanctuary. Kent is a man of principles and not quite an entirely by the book Officer. He has a great habit of stepping on toes, poking his nose in and generally winding people up.
Given the various story lines the author has woven a really great and addictive read. He has built up a great start to a series that has a real murder mystery as well as a crime thriller feel to it. A brilliant introduction to a unique detective and a great way to kick off a series.
If you are after a detective with a difference read, with humour balanced with suspense and its toes well dipped in the traditional “whodunnit” style of writing then you cannot go wrong with this one. This is a book I would highly recommend.
There are several story lines running through this story as Kent looks into whether the accident was work related and therefore within his powers to look into. Run ins with a local businessman doesn’t really help matters especially when he and Kent have a not so sociable history. You also get a history of Kent as he grew up and also his life now and the changes he has made that see him as not only a EH Officer but also the owner of a struggling animal sanctuary. Kent is a man of principles and not quite an entirely by the book Officer. He has a great habit of stepping on toes, poking his nose in and generally winding people up.
Given the various story lines the author has woven a really great and addictive read. He has built up a great start to a series that has a real murder mystery as well as a crime thriller feel to it. A brilliant introduction to a unique detective and a great way to kick off a series.
If you are after a detective with a difference read, with humour balanced with suspense and its toes well dipped in the traditional “whodunnit” style of writing then you cannot go wrong with this one. This is a book I would highly recommend.
February 20, 2018
An interesting new take to the tradition whodunit mystery - the sleuth is an Environmental Health Officer investigating a fatal work accident - or was it?
The book gets off to a great start, witty, entertaining and intriguing. The central character Kent, ardent fan of Columbo, is a complex character with plenty of chips on his shoulder with some priceless phrases and observations.
I did become a bit frustrated through the middle part of the book with the way the investigation was described. I'm not sure if that's more to do with the fact I'm more used to police procedurals? Jury is out on that one.
The book ends in an exciting climax and I stayed up late to finish the read. I didn't guess the villain before the big reveal but all the clues were there.
Overall a great story with a distinct central character, making this a good introduction to a series.
I will read the second book in the series as time allows.
The book gets off to a great start, witty, entertaining and intriguing. The central character Kent, ardent fan of Columbo, is a complex character with plenty of chips on his shoulder with some priceless phrases and observations.
I did become a bit frustrated through the middle part of the book with the way the investigation was described. I'm not sure if that's more to do with the fact I'm more used to police procedurals? Jury is out on that one.
The book ends in an exciting climax and I stayed up late to finish the read. I didn't guess the villain before the big reveal but all the clues were there.
Overall a great story with a distinct central character, making this a good introduction to a series.
I will read the second book in the series as time allows.
April 22, 2019
This started slowly and I wasn't sure about the main character at first but as I read I really got to like him. (Although I don't think I got my head round his love life.) The style of writing lost me in parts but by the end I was ignoring this because I really wanted to know what happens. There are quite a few twists to keep you guessing and a brilliant ending. As a first novel this is good and I will read another one even though I normally avoid crime books which try to include humour.
June 5, 2019
Once I got used to the unusual first person/ present tense style I found this to be a very well written book. The action flowed nicely and the characters were well presented. I do feel though that the main character could be a bit of an arse at times. The whole case wouldn't have happened if he hadn't been on a futile vendetta, and along the way he snubbed and ignored friends and colleagues repeatedly. Flawed hero or total git? You decide...
March 2, 2020
I enjoyed this book. It was certainly a bit different, as the 'sleuth' is an Enivonmental Health Officer who is called in to investigate a fatal accident at work and believes right from the start that this was 'No Accident'. The book is full of interesting characters, and well drawn settings and raced to a satisfying conclusion. I was happy to see that this is the first in a series and am looking forward to reading more.
June 28, 2021
Kent Fisher does for the professional EHO what James Herriot did for Country Vets but with added gallows humour.
I enjoy any laugh I can get, and there were many in this very involving novel, but it isn't a crime comedy or sleuth spoof it is a 'proper' murder with a mystery to be solved.
The plot has more twists and turns than the country lanes of East Sussex where the action takes place.
It is No Accident that this is a good read --- more please !
I enjoy any laugh I can get, and there were many in this very involving novel, but it isn't a crime comedy or sleuth spoof it is a 'proper' murder with a mystery to be solved.
The plot has more twists and turns than the country lanes of East Sussex where the action takes place.
It is No Accident that this is a good read --- more please !
August 26, 2017
Different slant on the usual crime related books I read,this is the first one I've read that features an environmental health officer as the main character. He's a very deep man and never gives much away including how he feels about those closest to him. Really well thought out storyline with plenty twists and turns
May 30, 2018
I liked the unusual lead character in this book and the prospect of an investigation from an environmental health perspective was fascinating. There were and interesting mix of characters and as this is book 1 of a series hopefully we will see them develop more over time. The plot at times is fast and furious I would definitely read more from this author
April 2, 2023
This took me a little while to get into, but once into it I was completely captivated. a great amateur sleuth with a suitable "day job" and how he gets embroiled in the antics is fun to read. Very relatable character and one I am convinced readers will warm to.
A great start to a series, lots of detail and kept me guessing along the way.
A great start to a series, lots of detail and kept me guessing along the way.
April 13, 2018
An unusual book with the main protagonist being an environmental health officer.
May 6, 2018
To follow
May 14, 2018
Brilliant!
Super read and didn’t see the ending either! First I have read from this author but I have the second book ready to go!
Super read and didn’t see the ending either! First I have read from this author but I have the second book ready to go!
July 31, 2023
Started off slow and remain slow to the flight or I gave up
December 3, 2025
Review of No Accident, by Robert Crouch
Told in the first person POV, No Accident introduces us to Kent Fisher, an environmental health officer, sent to investigate a workplace accident. Kent senses immediately that there is more to it than meets the eye, but is up against an increasing number of people who oppose his ideas, and his methods.
The story unfolds gradually as does the background to Kent's life, which is complicated by links to those he sees as the enemy.
Undeterred by his suspension, Kent continues to investigate with the help of a rookie officer, someone with whom he had a past relationship. Together they become steeped in a world where the links between his father and biggest adversary meet. With their lives at risk they eventually put the jigsaw together, uncovering not only the perpetrator, a nice twist, but to Kent's dismay, secrets that give a lie to his past.
Set in the beautiful rolling Downs of the South Coast in England, this novel creates believable characters, scenes of the natural world and the inevitable realisation of lost love.
I found the beginning a little slow, but the pace gathers, and towards the final chapters I had to know how it ended. I can certainly recommend this novel. A comfortable chair, a cosy fire, and a few hours to spare will have you transported to the world of investigation with no detectives.
Told in the first person POV, No Accident introduces us to Kent Fisher, an environmental health officer, sent to investigate a workplace accident. Kent senses immediately that there is more to it than meets the eye, but is up against an increasing number of people who oppose his ideas, and his methods.
The story unfolds gradually as does the background to Kent's life, which is complicated by links to those he sees as the enemy.
Undeterred by his suspension, Kent continues to investigate with the help of a rookie officer, someone with whom he had a past relationship. Together they become steeped in a world where the links between his father and biggest adversary meet. With their lives at risk they eventually put the jigsaw together, uncovering not only the perpetrator, a nice twist, but to Kent's dismay, secrets that give a lie to his past.
Set in the beautiful rolling Downs of the South Coast in England, this novel creates believable characters, scenes of the natural world and the inevitable realisation of lost love.
I found the beginning a little slow, but the pace gathers, and towards the final chapters I had to know how it ended. I can certainly recommend this novel. A comfortable chair, a cosy fire, and a few hours to spare will have you transported to the world of investigation with no detectives.
August 27, 2017
No accident is centred around Kent Fisher an Environmental Officer who is called to investigate which is proposed to be a straight forward farm machinery accident. As Kent delves deeper into the accident it becomes clear that it is indeed murder. I was fascinated by the way Robert Crouch demonstrated how an seemingly ordinary member of the public could become what is best described as a Private Eye. Kent leaves no stone unturned in his investigation whilst also battling an old adversary in the process, in turn we also find an insight into Kents own family secrets. Kent is a man who has a love for nature, the environment and having the chance to put preservation orders in place.
I read No Accident by Robert Crouch over a couple of days, if I was to be honest with myself and the author, I would put No Accident down as a marmite book in my eyes. I have never read a crime book along these lines and I struggled with the concept of having no real detective to relate to but on the flip side I couldn’t fault the actual storyline or style of writing. Robert has a brought a different concept to a crime story with a touch of humour using an Environmental Health Officer who has issues in his private and professional life.
I definitely think if you love a good Agatha Christie novel then No Accident will be right up your street, I was never a lover of Agatha Christie books so I think I started off on the back foot while reading No accident and may have clouded my own judgement of the novel. I would certainly give No Accident a solid four stars and recommend anyone to give Robert Crouch a try as what one person may not take to another may love……. therefore the Marmite novel.
Thank you to Robert Crouch and Caroline for the opportunity to read and review No Accident.
I read No Accident by Robert Crouch over a couple of days, if I was to be honest with myself and the author, I would put No Accident down as a marmite book in my eyes. I have never read a crime book along these lines and I struggled with the concept of having no real detective to relate to but on the flip side I couldn’t fault the actual storyline or style of writing. Robert has a brought a different concept to a crime story with a touch of humour using an Environmental Health Officer who has issues in his private and professional life.
I definitely think if you love a good Agatha Christie novel then No Accident will be right up your street, I was never a lover of Agatha Christie books so I think I started off on the back foot while reading No accident and may have clouded my own judgement of the novel. I would certainly give No Accident a solid four stars and recommend anyone to give Robert Crouch a try as what one person may not take to another may love……. therefore the Marmite novel.
Thank you to Robert Crouch and Caroline for the opportunity to read and review No Accident.
October 8, 2016
The only thing I love more than a good mystery is a comedic-mystery. It’s possible this one pulls up just short of that in tone, being say a comedy-drama/mystery with the emphasis still more on the drama than the humor. But the dark, cheeky humor is sprinkled liberally throughout, and has become one of my chief reasons for reading more British authors. Their sly wit is often priceless.
The author, by his own admission, is a big fan of the Columbo TV series, and it shows in his central character, who has a nagging way of carping, “But something doesn’t fit,” every time someone tries to close his case for him and advise “there is no crime here.” But his observations are smart and he thinks of things that other people miss and no one but a very smart, motivated detective is going to catch. My other favorite feature of the lead character is he’s a staunch environmentalist. Granted, it’s part of his job description to be concerned about the rape of the environment and misappropriation of public lands, but it’s just refreshing to have this in a lead character. Our habitats are being destroyed around the world, so why aren’t more lead characters and storytellers finding ways to make their voices heard?
Chapters are long and the author spends an inordinate amount of time in one location before moving on, two very un-American storytelling attributes, despite another reviewer commenting that this British author has written more for an American audience. That said, I found myself relaxing into his style of writing and letting him tell the story the way he wanted to. And to my surprise, it worked. Some British phrasing will throw you here and there, but for the most part, I found everything intelligible in context. Recommended for mystery enthusiasts.
The author, by his own admission, is a big fan of the Columbo TV series, and it shows in his central character, who has a nagging way of carping, “But something doesn’t fit,” every time someone tries to close his case for him and advise “there is no crime here.” But his observations are smart and he thinks of things that other people miss and no one but a very smart, motivated detective is going to catch. My other favorite feature of the lead character is he’s a staunch environmentalist. Granted, it’s part of his job description to be concerned about the rape of the environment and misappropriation of public lands, but it’s just refreshing to have this in a lead character. Our habitats are being destroyed around the world, so why aren’t more lead characters and storytellers finding ways to make their voices heard?
Chapters are long and the author spends an inordinate amount of time in one location before moving on, two very un-American storytelling attributes, despite another reviewer commenting that this British author has written more for an American audience. That said, I found myself relaxing into his style of writing and letting him tell the story the way he wanted to. And to my surprise, it worked. Some British phrasing will throw you here and there, but for the most part, I found everything intelligible in context. Recommended for mystery enthusiasts.
October 11, 2016
I’m a big lover of mysteries and detective stories, and “No Accident” certainly didn’t disappoint. What made it so different from the rest of the books in the same genre was that the protagonist was not your usual detective (what is normally expected in such cases), but an environmental investigator, and I found this very refreshing. His witty remarks and sometimes sarcastic voice made the main character even more vivid and easy to associate with.
Kent Fisher arrived on the scene to find what looks like a regular working accident, but was it really just an accident or is someone trying to cover some old tracks, leading towards some bigger scheme? Following Kent from one scene to another and going over possible theories and motives with him made this book hard to put down. Multiple suspects and secrecy surrounding Kent’s birth, new clues and discoveries – all helped create a story that will stay with you for a long time. A great mystery! Highly recommended.
Kent Fisher arrived on the scene to find what looks like a regular working accident, but was it really just an accident or is someone trying to cover some old tracks, leading towards some bigger scheme? Following Kent from one scene to another and going over possible theories and motives with him made this book hard to put down. Multiple suspects and secrecy surrounding Kent’s birth, new clues and discoveries – all helped create a story that will stay with you for a long time. A great mystery! Highly recommended.
August 25, 2017
No Accident is a mystery/detective story set in and around the South Downs. Now I like a good mystery to get my teeth into and I was born and raised in the South Downs area so it was immediately appealing in that respect. The author is a self-confessed Columbo fan so people of a certain age will love or hate that connection .. personally I used to really enjoy Columbo so I couldn’t get his image out of mind for quite a while when I was reading this! Columbo does actually get a part but this time in the form of the dog!
Kent Fisher is called to an ‘accident’ involving farm machinery (bit gruesome) in his role as an environmental health officer. The victim is a worker at the adventure park which just happens to be run and owned by Kent’s enemy Miles Birchill. Sadly for Kent Mile’s is alive and well, he would prefer it if he were the person the tractor minced!
There is a whole can of worms to be opened when Kent begins investigating and I like his method of detective work. We get to know Kent fairly well, he is a decent guy, keen on saving the environment, rescuing animals and putting preservation plans into action. He is currently living in a small area that used to belong to his father’s estate .. there are plenty of secrets revolving around family members and clues pointing at Kent’s birth/childhood.
The surrounding area is well described, the author’s apparent love of Sussex and ‘homely’ detectives shine through. It has a cosy, sedate feel to the story almost as though it is set in a previous generation. I enjoyed the humour scattered throughout and the possibility of secret passages in the big house gave it a real Scooby Doo atmosphere.
So will Kent Fisher solve the mystery behind the ‘accident, who is the victim and what happened? Robert Crouch has produced a highly enjoyable book and I look forward to reading more by him.
Many thanks to the author and Caroline (Bits about Books) for inviting me to take part on the tour.
Kent Fisher is called to an ‘accident’ involving farm machinery (bit gruesome) in his role as an environmental health officer. The victim is a worker at the adventure park which just happens to be run and owned by Kent’s enemy Miles Birchill. Sadly for Kent Mile’s is alive and well, he would prefer it if he were the person the tractor minced!
There is a whole can of worms to be opened when Kent begins investigating and I like his method of detective work. We get to know Kent fairly well, he is a decent guy, keen on saving the environment, rescuing animals and putting preservation plans into action. He is currently living in a small area that used to belong to his father’s estate .. there are plenty of secrets revolving around family members and clues pointing at Kent’s birth/childhood.
The surrounding area is well described, the author’s apparent love of Sussex and ‘homely’ detectives shine through. It has a cosy, sedate feel to the story almost as though it is set in a previous generation. I enjoyed the humour scattered throughout and the possibility of secret passages in the big house gave it a real Scooby Doo atmosphere.
So will Kent Fisher solve the mystery behind the ‘accident, who is the victim and what happened? Robert Crouch has produced a highly enjoyable book and I look forward to reading more by him.
Many thanks to the author and Caroline (Bits about Books) for inviting me to take part on the tour.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews