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DS Alexandra Cupidi #3
Grave's End
Protest. Rebel. Die
An unidentified body is found in a freezer.
No one seems to know or care who it is or who placed it there.
DS Alexandra Cupidi couldn't have realised that this bizarre discovery will be connected to the crisis in housing, the politics of environmentalism and specifically the protection given to badgers by the law. But there are dangerous links between these strange, reclusive, fiercely territorial creatures and the activism of Cupidi's teenage daughter Zoe and her friend Bill South, her colleague Constable Jill Ferriter's dating habits and long forgotten historic crimes of sexual abuse - and murder.
DS Alexandra Cupidi faces establishment corruption, class divide and environmental activism in this gripping new novel by a rising star of British crime fiction.
An unidentified body is found in a freezer.
No one seems to know or care who it is or who placed it there.
DS Alexandra Cupidi couldn't have realised that this bizarre discovery will be connected to the crisis in housing, the politics of environmentalism and specifically the protection given to badgers by the law. But there are dangerous links between these strange, reclusive, fiercely territorial creatures and the activism of Cupidi's teenage daughter Zoe and her friend Bill South, her colleague Constable Jill Ferriter's dating habits and long forgotten historic crimes of sexual abuse - and murder.
DS Alexandra Cupidi faces establishment corruption, class divide and environmental activism in this gripping new novel by a rising star of British crime fiction.
480 pages, Hardcover
First published May 14, 2020
101 people are currently reading
533 people want to read
About the author
William Shaw
20 books534 followersI'm a crime writer and write the Eden Driscoll series set in South Devon, the Alex Cupidi series set in Dungeness, Kent and the Breen & Tozer series set in London in 1968-9.
My most recent book is The Red Shore, the first I the Eden Driscoll series, set in Teignmouth, Devon.
My non-fiction books include Westsiders , an account of several young would-be rappers struggling to establish themselves against a backdrop of poverty and violence in South Central Los Angeles, Superhero For Hire , a compilation and of the Small Ads columns I wrote for the Observer Magazine, and Spying In Guru Land , in which I joined several British religious cults to write about them.
A Song From Dead Lips was the first in a trilogy of books set in London in 1968, featuring DS Cathal Breen and WPC Helen Tozer. It was followed by A House of Knives and A Book of Scars .
I live in Glenbeigh, Co. Kerry.
My most recent book is The Red Shore, the first I the Eden Driscoll series, set in Teignmouth, Devon.
My non-fiction books include Westsiders , an account of several young would-be rappers struggling to establish themselves against a backdrop of poverty and violence in South Central Los Angeles, Superhero For Hire , a compilation and of the Small Ads columns I wrote for the Observer Magazine, and Spying In Guru Land , in which I joined several British religious cults to write about them.
A Song From Dead Lips was the first in a trilogy of books set in London in 1968, featuring DS Cathal Breen and WPC Helen Tozer. It was followed by A House of Knives and A Book of Scars .
I live in Glenbeigh, Co. Kerry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
April 28, 2020
I adore this Kent based crime series featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi by William Shaw, I love the atmospheric coastal location and the latest addition to this series has a unique and unusual thread that is related from the perspective of a older male badger. The precarious life of the badger, often surviving on the edge of starvation as it forages for the slimmest of pickings, male badger rivalries and fights, the dangers of cars, farmers claiming badgers as a source of TB, the cruel illegal badger baiting that take place below the radar, the building of new housing estates in the countryside, and other dangers presented by humans in general are insightfully and informatively outlined in this novel.
The badger is having its territory available to it severely curtailed which is how he comes to be digging up some old human bones buried on the proposed Whitefields development, bones that are 25 years old, of the 15 year old public schoolboy Trevor Woods. It all begins when a couple discover a dead body in a freezer at the home owned by the Uffings that is for sale. Alex is able to identify the murdered body, thanks to her 17 year old daughter, Zoe, currently protesting the Whitefields development, along with other locals. The murder victim turns out to be Vinnie Gibbons, naturalist and protester, he has been poisoned. Alex works the case with her friend and colleague, Constable Jill Ferriter, who complicates matters considerably by dating Harry French, a potential suspect heading the Whitefields Development. In a complex investigation, Alex finds herself facing great danger, whilst mixing in exalted political circles, whilst ruthless forces are determined the truth from the past never sees the light of day as further murders take place.
One of the highlights of the series are the recurring characters, their relationships and development, such as that of Alex with Jill and Bill, although I have yet to forgive her for ensuring that Bill South, a good man and ex-cop, went to prison. Alex is perplexed by her daughter, Zoe, her commitment to wildlife, and birdwatching, demonstrating a patience that Alex herself lacks, but it is Bill and Zoe taking Alex badger watching that provides the break that her murder investigation sorely needed. This is a wonderful addition to the series, focusing on the housing crisis, environmentalism, the cruelty, bullying and other abuse that can take place in public schools, politics and the profiteering from the government's housing development policies. A brilliant crime series that I recommend to crime and thriller fans. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
The badger is having its territory available to it severely curtailed which is how he comes to be digging up some old human bones buried on the proposed Whitefields development, bones that are 25 years old, of the 15 year old public schoolboy Trevor Woods. It all begins when a couple discover a dead body in a freezer at the home owned by the Uffings that is for sale. Alex is able to identify the murdered body, thanks to her 17 year old daughter, Zoe, currently protesting the Whitefields development, along with other locals. The murder victim turns out to be Vinnie Gibbons, naturalist and protester, he has been poisoned. Alex works the case with her friend and colleague, Constable Jill Ferriter, who complicates matters considerably by dating Harry French, a potential suspect heading the Whitefields Development. In a complex investigation, Alex finds herself facing great danger, whilst mixing in exalted political circles, whilst ruthless forces are determined the truth from the past never sees the light of day as further murders take place.
One of the highlights of the series are the recurring characters, their relationships and development, such as that of Alex with Jill and Bill, although I have yet to forgive her for ensuring that Bill South, a good man and ex-cop, went to prison. Alex is perplexed by her daughter, Zoe, her commitment to wildlife, and birdwatching, demonstrating a patience that Alex herself lacks, but it is Bill and Zoe taking Alex badger watching that provides the break that her murder investigation sorely needed. This is a wonderful addition to the series, focusing on the housing crisis, environmentalism, the cruelty, bullying and other abuse that can take place in public schools, politics and the profiteering from the government's housing development policies. A brilliant crime series that I recommend to crime and thriller fans. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
May 15, 2020
This is another excellent addition to the series featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi of the Kent Serious Crime Squad. This has all the essential ingredients that make for a fascinating and intriguing read. A dead body is found in an empty Kent Oast house that is up for sale. The subsequent investigation leads the team to a site where a large housing development is proposed, threatening the ancient badger setts that have been in situ possibly for hundreds of years. There are protests about the development and it has been fenced off to keep them out. As the investigation deepens, a junior government minister becomes involved which takes the inquiry back to his public school days. It becomes apparent that Alex and her team are straying into deep waters and she finds herself in terrible danger and with a rising death toll.
There is so much to praise here. The Kent setting provides a very atmospheric backdrop especially the Dungerness area where Alex lives. I love the badger perspective and this is a very creative element too but I also learned a lot of very interesting facts about these fascinating nocturnal creatures. This is a very important element in the novel and it’s a very current topic as it highlights the needs of the natural world against the need for more housing stock which obviously encroaches on important habitats - extremely thought provoking. The characters are excellent, I really like Alex and her daughter Zoe who is passionate about the environment as is ex policeman William South who has taught Zoe a lot about the wildlife in their area. Jill, Alex’s partner is another very good character and their dialogue and relationship feels very real. They banter, fall out but ultimately have each other’s backs.
The story is very well written, the plot is excellent and the pace is very good. There are plenty of twists and turns which all have the element of believability. There are moments of fear, threat and danger and there sadness for some of the victims to whom there are links to bullying and blackmail and ultimately it’s a story of revenge.
Overall, a terrific read and one I will remember not least for the fantastic old badger - what a survivor!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quercus Books for the arc.
There is so much to praise here. The Kent setting provides a very atmospheric backdrop especially the Dungerness area where Alex lives. I love the badger perspective and this is a very creative element too but I also learned a lot of very interesting facts about these fascinating nocturnal creatures. This is a very important element in the novel and it’s a very current topic as it highlights the needs of the natural world against the need for more housing stock which obviously encroaches on important habitats - extremely thought provoking. The characters are excellent, I really like Alex and her daughter Zoe who is passionate about the environment as is ex policeman William South who has taught Zoe a lot about the wildlife in their area. Jill, Alex’s partner is another very good character and their dialogue and relationship feels very real. They banter, fall out but ultimately have each other’s backs.
The story is very well written, the plot is excellent and the pace is very good. There are plenty of twists and turns which all have the element of believability. There are moments of fear, threat and danger and there sadness for some of the victims to whom there are links to bullying and blackmail and ultimately it’s a story of revenge.
Overall, a terrific read and one I will remember not least for the fantastic old badger - what a survivor!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quercus Books for the arc.
May 6, 2023
In brief - Another decent read in this very good series. The more I read about Alex the more I like the stories. 4.5/5 probably.
In full
An unidentified body in a freezer and an old badger in his sett - one entrance is blocked and the area may be built on. There can’t be a connection can there? Zoe - Alex’s teenage daughter - is becoming increasingly environmental and may be getting into trouble. I found this a very good start to the latest (3rd) book in this author’s series featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi.
This book follows Alex’s investigation of the body in the freezer through a number of twists and turns. The threads are wide ranging and some go back a long time. The emphasis on the environment is also a strong aspect of this story. Much of the tale is again set on the Kent coast around Dungeness where Cupidi lives with her daughter. It’s a setting that has been used effectively in the previous books. While this certainly could be read as a stand alone I would suggest that new readers start with the first book - Salt Lane.
I came to this series a little late. I guess my first reaction to it was that it was somewhat ordinary though made for a good read. However by the end of the first book I realised that the characters were very good. Alex, Zoe and Bill South made for a strong and interesting team. Add in Jill (a DC) who is entertaining and I realised I’d like to read more about these people. It isn’t just the characters either. The landscape/environment also play a role in these stories and are used to good effect.
I found this very readable. The first half runs at a slower pace than the second half. However by the time you get to the second half the book becomes tense and fairly unputdownable. I enjoyed the story and I enjoyed the characters. I will certainly read more of this series. There is a sort of prequel to these in the form of The Birdwatcher which is on my “to read” list. I’d suggest that this series would be good for anyone who likes a decent crime read. Fans of the series should be very happy with this latest offering.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
In full
An unidentified body in a freezer and an old badger in his sett - one entrance is blocked and the area may be built on. There can’t be a connection can there? Zoe - Alex’s teenage daughter - is becoming increasingly environmental and may be getting into trouble. I found this a very good start to the latest (3rd) book in this author’s series featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi.
This book follows Alex’s investigation of the body in the freezer through a number of twists and turns. The threads are wide ranging and some go back a long time. The emphasis on the environment is also a strong aspect of this story. Much of the tale is again set on the Kent coast around Dungeness where Cupidi lives with her daughter. It’s a setting that has been used effectively in the previous books. While this certainly could be read as a stand alone I would suggest that new readers start with the first book - Salt Lane.
I came to this series a little late. I guess my first reaction to it was that it was somewhat ordinary though made for a good read. However by the end of the first book I realised that the characters were very good. Alex, Zoe and Bill South made for a strong and interesting team. Add in Jill (a DC) who is entertaining and I realised I’d like to read more about these people. It isn’t just the characters either. The landscape/environment also play a role in these stories and are used to good effect.
I found this very readable. The first half runs at a slower pace than the second half. However by the time you get to the second half the book becomes tense and fairly unputdownable. I enjoyed the story and I enjoyed the characters. I will certainly read more of this series. There is a sort of prequel to these in the form of The Birdwatcher which is on my “to read” list. I’d suggest that this series would be good for anyone who likes a decent crime read. Fans of the series should be very happy with this latest offering.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
November 14, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed it! One of those books you don't want to end although you want to read on and on. I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
April 16, 2025
A welcomed new release from the under-appreciated author William Shaw. Grave’s End marks the 3rd book in the DS Alex Cupidi police procedural series.
A series perhaps merits you read them in a chronological order but I honestly feel this novel can be approached afresh as a stand-alone.
What I enjoy is the comfort I find in these pages; a confidence in the author to deliver, a familiarity about location and character but that feeling one has about certain items of clothing.
A new coat doesn’t seem to be mine at first; a borrowed item until a few weeks later it fits in every sense. Same with shoes but these can take a while to bed in for comfort. I digress, what I mean is these books read like familiar favourites, like the twelfth or fiftieth in the series. Yet not tired and repetitive but comfortable and they take me to a world I love to spend time in and enjoy being part of through the pages.
Shaw achieves this from the book one and with each successive title released where other authors I only became hooked by the forth or fifth one published.
The plot is up to date and meaningful; dare I say original. There are a number of competing interests when green field sites are designated for a significant house building project. A rural campaigner fighting against this large scale operation, trying to champion the environment, especially the many badger setts that would need re-locating, goes missing. When he turns up dead it seems his fight against local badger-baiters or opposition to the local housing scheme could have led to him being silenced.
One normally marvels at an author’s dedication to long hours of research and story building outside one’s own general knowledge. Well, this work seems to focus initially on the life and behaviour of badgers. I learned more here than in a series of Spring Watch. They seem to play not just a physical and emotional barrier to the planning laws being enacted, where wildlife flourish and prosper but a deeper meaning is served in their habits, their society and secrets hidden from view and buried underground. So they serve not just as an interesting aspect of the book but an intrinsic part of the novel’s direction and meaning.
At first I thought Mr Shaw perhaps had been drinking too much Spitfire in his writing shed; but then I realised Badger beers herald from Dorset. Perhaps he gets it mail ordered to Sussex.
In any case this link with the environment that comes from Zoë, the police offers daughter is a gentle reminder of the conflicting aspects of progress against maintaining traditional country values. Also incomers, townees, against countryside ways. Privilege against aspiration, political influence and money verses history, heritage and tradition.
Somehow, Shaw interweaves these many aspects of conflict, issues held in tension that may be sufficient motive for murder. The storytelling is of the highest quality and the development of plot well drawn out and laced with the prospect of failure and personal danger. Reality is hinted at but this is crime fiction so I can promise you a reasonable neat conclusion to the investigation. How we get there may be obvious at times and for others perhaps rushed but what isn’t in doubt is the simple pleasure this journey becomes for the reader.
William Shaw is a modest writer of great talent; he continues to produce great novels which engage one’s social consciousness while satisfying one’s desire for escapism and adventure.
A must read this year of uncertainty and fear.
A series perhaps merits you read them in a chronological order but I honestly feel this novel can be approached afresh as a stand-alone.
What I enjoy is the comfort I find in these pages; a confidence in the author to deliver, a familiarity about location and character but that feeling one has about certain items of clothing.
A new coat doesn’t seem to be mine at first; a borrowed item until a few weeks later it fits in every sense. Same with shoes but these can take a while to bed in for comfort. I digress, what I mean is these books read like familiar favourites, like the twelfth or fiftieth in the series. Yet not tired and repetitive but comfortable and they take me to a world I love to spend time in and enjoy being part of through the pages.
Shaw achieves this from the book one and with each successive title released where other authors I only became hooked by the forth or fifth one published.
The plot is up to date and meaningful; dare I say original. There are a number of competing interests when green field sites are designated for a significant house building project. A rural campaigner fighting against this large scale operation, trying to champion the environment, especially the many badger setts that would need re-locating, goes missing. When he turns up dead it seems his fight against local badger-baiters or opposition to the local housing scheme could have led to him being silenced.
One normally marvels at an author’s dedication to long hours of research and story building outside one’s own general knowledge. Well, this work seems to focus initially on the life and behaviour of badgers. I learned more here than in a series of Spring Watch. They seem to play not just a physical and emotional barrier to the planning laws being enacted, where wildlife flourish and prosper but a deeper meaning is served in their habits, their society and secrets hidden from view and buried underground. So they serve not just as an interesting aspect of the book but an intrinsic part of the novel’s direction and meaning.
At first I thought Mr Shaw perhaps had been drinking too much Spitfire in his writing shed; but then I realised Badger beers herald from Dorset. Perhaps he gets it mail ordered to Sussex.
In any case this link with the environment that comes from Zoë, the police offers daughter is a gentle reminder of the conflicting aspects of progress against maintaining traditional country values. Also incomers, townees, against countryside ways. Privilege against aspiration, political influence and money verses history, heritage and tradition.
Somehow, Shaw interweaves these many aspects of conflict, issues held in tension that may be sufficient motive for murder. The storytelling is of the highest quality and the development of plot well drawn out and laced with the prospect of failure and personal danger. Reality is hinted at but this is crime fiction so I can promise you a reasonable neat conclusion to the investigation. How we get there may be obvious at times and for others perhaps rushed but what isn’t in doubt is the simple pleasure this journey becomes for the reader.
William Shaw is a modest writer of great talent; he continues to produce great novels which engage one’s social consciousness while satisfying one’s desire for escapism and adventure.
A must read this year of uncertainty and fear.
May 18, 2020
Grave's End is the fourth novel in this Kent based British crime thriller series. It can be read as a stand-alone and new readers will not feel left out. You could even read this fourth book, enjoy it and start the series from book one without anything spoiling your enjoyment. Grave's End gets off to a creepy start when a man's naked body is found in a freezer. Detective Sergeant Alexandra Cupidi and her team are on the case to solve this murder.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Grave's End. Characters from the previous novels return like friends at a Christmas party. The plot is very complex and when another body is found both DS Alexandra Cupidi and the reader wonder if the two deaths are connected. When you go to bed after a reading session, your head is buzzing as you wonder who to trust and what the devil is behind it all.
I loved how the issues around class conflicts, housing development, planning consent and local politics all played an integral part of the story. Grave's End is not a basic police procedural as there is lots more to this tale. There are even short chapters written from the point of view of a Badger. Don't worry if you know nothing about badgers as this old badger will teach you all you need to know. I found the badger tale gave this novel so much extra added value.
I found Grave's End to be a very entertaining read with lots to think about. I loved the rural locations, the wildlife and the bonds which developed between the characters. How Alex, Bill, Jill and Zoe bounced off each other was great to watch, it was as if the reader was the quiet one in the corner while the four of them got to the bottom of how and why the naked man was found in the freezer.
I like William's writing style, it is very easy to follow and roll along with. Character development is spot on. William has done it again, it is wonderful how he has published these 4 books in the series with the quality of each one being top notch. I can find nothing wrong with Grave's End and found it an OUTSTANDING read that gets the top score of 5 stars from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Quercus for giving me a copy of this book on the understanding that I provide an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Grave's End. Characters from the previous novels return like friends at a Christmas party. The plot is very complex and when another body is found both DS Alexandra Cupidi and the reader wonder if the two deaths are connected. When you go to bed after a reading session, your head is buzzing as you wonder who to trust and what the devil is behind it all.
I loved how the issues around class conflicts, housing development, planning consent and local politics all played an integral part of the story. Grave's End is not a basic police procedural as there is lots more to this tale. There are even short chapters written from the point of view of a Badger. Don't worry if you know nothing about badgers as this old badger will teach you all you need to know. I found the badger tale gave this novel so much extra added value.
I found Grave's End to be a very entertaining read with lots to think about. I loved the rural locations, the wildlife and the bonds which developed between the characters. How Alex, Bill, Jill and Zoe bounced off each other was great to watch, it was as if the reader was the quiet one in the corner while the four of them got to the bottom of how and why the naked man was found in the freezer.
I like William's writing style, it is very easy to follow and roll along with. Character development is spot on. William has done it again, it is wonderful how he has published these 4 books in the series with the quality of each one being top notch. I can find nothing wrong with Grave's End and found it an OUTSTANDING read that gets the top score of 5 stars from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Quercus for giving me a copy of this book on the understanding that I provide an honest review.
May 10, 2021
I'm a huge fan of this series and of William Shaw generally so it was an absolute pleasure to enter the world of Alex Cupidi once again.
Graves End has an absolute corker of a plot which the author manages in his usual engaging and atmospheric style. The setting is vivid and beautifully done, plus I now know more about Badgers than I thought I ever would, fascinating creatures that they are.
That's the underneath so to speak, the surface level being a classic mystery with plenty of twists and turns, an emotional resonance and unpredictable outcome. I'm a huge fan of the relationship between Alex and daughter Zoe that forms a backbone to the series overall.
Excellent stuff first page to last. Recommended.
Graves End has an absolute corker of a plot which the author manages in his usual engaging and atmospheric style. The setting is vivid and beautifully done, plus I now know more about Badgers than I thought I ever would, fascinating creatures that they are.
That's the underneath so to speak, the surface level being a classic mystery with plenty of twists and turns, an emotional resonance and unpredictable outcome. I'm a huge fan of the relationship between Alex and daughter Zoe that forms a backbone to the series overall.
Excellent stuff first page to last. Recommended.
May 12, 2024
Although this is the third novel n a series, I had no trouble at all finding my way into the story without reading the previous two. The central character is Detective Sergeant Alexandra Cupidi, who lives with her daughter Zoe in a cottage near Dungeness Point, close to a nuclear power station and near to Prospect Cottage, the home of late film maker Derek Jarman. A bleak, but often bizarrely beautiful location.
When the body of an unidentified male is discovered in the freezer in a show home, Alex is tasked to discover his identity and how and why he died. Soon two other dead bodies turn up and it is suspected that all deaths could be connected to the planned building of a massive housing development nearby. Many locals are concerned about the potential disruption to their rural tranquillity and others are concerned about how it will affect the many badger setts which populate the area. In fact, badgers play an important role in this story and several short chapters are told from the viewpoint of an elderly male.
When human remains are found beneath the proposed site, however, it looks as if there could be a connection stretching back to the 1980s and a nearby brutal private school. The whole plot builds up to a thrilling finale in an underground tunnel beneath a condemned house.
This novel was written in 2020, but with its themes of rapacious property development, greenwashing and political corruption seems even more relevant today
William Shaw is a writer who had been on my radar for a while now and I’m really glad to be finally acquainted with his work. It’s very easy to see why he is so highly praised by fellow crime writers.
When the body of an unidentified male is discovered in the freezer in a show home, Alex is tasked to discover his identity and how and why he died. Soon two other dead bodies turn up and it is suspected that all deaths could be connected to the planned building of a massive housing development nearby. Many locals are concerned about the potential disruption to their rural tranquillity and others are concerned about how it will affect the many badger setts which populate the area. In fact, badgers play an important role in this story and several short chapters are told from the viewpoint of an elderly male.
When human remains are found beneath the proposed site, however, it looks as if there could be a connection stretching back to the 1980s and a nearby brutal private school. The whole plot builds up to a thrilling finale in an underground tunnel beneath a condemned house.
This novel was written in 2020, but with its themes of rapacious property development, greenwashing and political corruption seems even more relevant today
William Shaw is a writer who had been on my radar for a while now and I’m really glad to be finally acquainted with his work. It’s very easy to see why he is so highly praised by fellow crime writers.
August 21, 2020
The old badger thinks people stink. I don’t have his sense of smell, but I agree that some people stink.
I have to admit that I’ve had trouble liking Alexandra Cupidi in the previous books, but she was warm and caring in this book. I loved Bill South’s appearance in this as well. Their friendship is odd considering their history, and I’m glad they are friends. Zoë is growing up to be a strong woman, with passionate opinions, but I still saw a naive 17 year old girl in her. These are great characters that William Shaw has developed.
The badgers make this book special to a nature-loving person like me.
I have to admit that I’ve had trouble liking Alexandra Cupidi in the previous books, but she was warm and caring in this book. I loved Bill South’s appearance in this as well. Their friendship is odd considering their history, and I’m glad they are friends. Zoë is growing up to be a strong woman, with passionate opinions, but I still saw a naive 17 year old girl in her. These are great characters that William Shaw has developed.
The badgers make this book special to a nature-loving person like me.
September 8, 2020
Loved this latest installment in the Alex Cupidi series.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
January 3, 2022
When I first read the premise for this book, I thought it sounded intriguing. But upon reading it again just before starting, I was indifferent to it. And then when I started reading, I found myself wondering what on earth I was thinking when I requested it. Despite all the rave reviews, I had to let this one go as I just couldn't get into it and found it a little strange. Why, you may ask? Well...
The story begins with a unique, if not bewildering, viewpoint of a badger. Yes, you read that right. A badger. And in between the many other chapters, the badger's perspective is revisited throughout. I'm sorry but this was just too weird. I love animals and everything but I'm not not reading a fantasy or a children's book but crime fiction. With murder, crime and intrigue. But I could find nothing intriguing within the chapters I did manage to get through.
I didn't much take to the heroine of the series, DS Alexandra Cupidi, and her interaction with her younger colleague Jill Ferriter didn't particularly endear me to either woman either. I think probably the fact that I have not read anything else in the series thus far yet again I am finding myself walking into something that's already in full motion and I'm left there feeling lost and dazed...and thoroughly confused.
I'm sure if I trudged on with the book, it may have gotten better, but I have far too many books on my shelf to waste time on something I am clearly not enjoying. I wanted to like this book...I want to like all books I read...but sadly, we cannot like every book we read.
Unfortunately, GRAVE'S END is the first of my reads for 2022 and it did not begin with a bang...but rather more like a deflated balloon. But as so many others loved this book and this series, please don't take my word for it. I suggest you check it out for yourself...you may be surprised. You may love it. Or you may not. Who knows? Reading is subjective and we can't all like everything we read.
I do, however, loathe to leave negative reviews and it's not something I do lightly. I know that every book I read is someone's hard work...the research, the hours, the work they have put into each and every page...I appreciate that entirely. And I hate it when I leave a negative review but it is my honest opinion...and my opinion only.
I would like to thank #WilliamShaw, #Netgalley and #RiverRun for an ARC of #GravesEnd in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
The story begins with a unique, if not bewildering, viewpoint of a badger. Yes, you read that right. A badger. And in between the many other chapters, the badger's perspective is revisited throughout. I'm sorry but this was just too weird. I love animals and everything but I'm not not reading a fantasy or a children's book but crime fiction. With murder, crime and intrigue. But I could find nothing intriguing within the chapters I did manage to get through.
I didn't much take to the heroine of the series, DS Alexandra Cupidi, and her interaction with her younger colleague Jill Ferriter didn't particularly endear me to either woman either. I think probably the fact that I have not read anything else in the series thus far yet again I am finding myself walking into something that's already in full motion and I'm left there feeling lost and dazed...and thoroughly confused.
I'm sure if I trudged on with the book, it may have gotten better, but I have far too many books on my shelf to waste time on something I am clearly not enjoying. I wanted to like this book...I want to like all books I read...but sadly, we cannot like every book we read.
Unfortunately, GRAVE'S END is the first of my reads for 2022 and it did not begin with a bang...but rather more like a deflated balloon. But as so many others loved this book and this series, please don't take my word for it. I suggest you check it out for yourself...you may be surprised. You may love it. Or you may not. Who knows? Reading is subjective and we can't all like everything we read.
I do, however, loathe to leave negative reviews and it's not something I do lightly. I know that every book I read is someone's hard work...the research, the hours, the work they have put into each and every page...I appreciate that entirely. And I hate it when I leave a negative review but it is my honest opinion...and my opinion only.
I would like to thank #WilliamShaw, #Netgalley and #RiverRun for an ARC of #GravesEnd in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 3, 2020
The 3rd book in the DS Alexandra Cupidi series, Grave’s End is another excellent read by William Shaw.
A story that deals with the murky world of property development, dodgy government ministers, old bones and bullying. William Shaw brings to light the devastation caused to the local wildlife, in particular sets of badgers all make for an extremely interesting, fantastically researched mystery thriller from an author at the top of his game.
The story trail involving the badger is something I really liked, and in Alex Cupidi, William Shaw has created a very likeable protagonist, and she is set off perfectly with the slightly scatty DC Jill Ferriter.
The writing is easy to read, and the pacing of the story as the plot unravels is spot on.
An atmospheric, complex mystery that I was compelled to read, I got this through this in no time at all.
This is a fantastic addition to the series from one of the finest crime authors on the scene right now
Highly Recommended
5🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
April 12, 2020
Firstly many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Once again another fantastic outing following Alex, her daughter and the local police department. This time the story includes chapters written from the perspective of a badger and this is relevant to the main storyline in a way only understandable if you read the book. I truly look forward to the next installment of this fantastically written book series. I would recommend this series to all as a book that you will not want to put down until finished I know I couldn't.
June 5, 2021
Another great addition to this crime series, featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi.
I find the setting very atmospheric and the book is well plotted.
I'm hoping there are more to come in this series
I find the setting very atmospheric and the book is well plotted.
I'm hoping there are more to come in this series
November 27, 2020
The best yet of the DS Alexandra Cupidi novels in the Dungeness series. William Shaw is right up there with the best authors of police procedurals and is certainly one of my favourites. My only disappointment is that I don't see a number 4 on the horizon; perhaps Mr Shaw is already working on the manuscript?!
There is so much to enjoy in Grave's End notwithstanding that Gravesend in North Kent features as a location, along with Folkestone, Lydd, Romney and of course the brooding setting of Dungeness, all places so well known to me.
A cadaver in a freezer, murderous cover-ups, buried secrets, the discovery of the skeleton of a public schoolboy beneath a housing development see Cupidi handling a complex case in a really gripping plot, a plot in which once again she finds herself in harm's way - a part of the case that is terrifying and breathtaking, relentless and menacing.
467 pages of the perfect thriller that I did not want to end, enjoying the company of such wonderful characters that I want to read more about. Over to you William!
There is so much to enjoy in Grave's End notwithstanding that Gravesend in North Kent features as a location, along with Folkestone, Lydd, Romney and of course the brooding setting of Dungeness, all places so well known to me.
A cadaver in a freezer, murderous cover-ups, buried secrets, the discovery of the skeleton of a public schoolboy beneath a housing development see Cupidi handling a complex case in a really gripping plot, a plot in which once again she finds herself in harm's way - a part of the case that is terrifying and breathtaking, relentless and menacing.
467 pages of the perfect thriller that I did not want to end, enjoying the company of such wonderful characters that I want to read more about. Over to you William!
August 21, 2022
I'm really enjoying this series! I now have the 4th to look forward to as well - The Trawlerman.
What I loved about this one was that some of it was told by an old badger. "People stink." I learned a great deal about badgers too. The mystery was a little strange, the beginning lead us in one direction, and then after the half-way mark, it switched to an entirely different direction. It kind of petered out a bit at that point almost a bit lame, but it did nothing to stop my complete enjoyment of it.
This was another case of the right book at the right time. I ripped through it and enjoyed it completely.
What I loved about this one was that some of it was told by an old badger. "People stink." I learned a great deal about badgers too. The mystery was a little strange, the beginning lead us in one direction, and then after the half-way mark, it switched to an entirely different direction. It kind of petered out a bit at that point almost a bit lame, but it did nothing to stop my complete enjoyment of it.
This was another case of the right book at the right time. I ripped through it and enjoyed it completely.
August 17, 2020
Yes, badger old boy, people stink. But I have become used to these ones. So can someone promise me this wouldn't be the last we'll hear of them?
May 20, 2020
I had this book as a review copy from Netgalley, but for various reasons I’m behind in my reading and because I’m a fan of William Shaw’s series I decided just to buy the audiobook and review that.
I love the relationship between D.S.Cupidi and her younger colleague, Constable Jill Ferriter. Shaw’s setting always play a pivotal role in these books and they are rich and atmospheric as a result
In Grave’s End, Shaw draws on the geography of the coastal headland of Kent to create a mystery that is rich in detail of the area and picks up on its conservation designations as a national nature reserve, a Special Protection Area a Special Area of Conservation) and part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest of Dungeness, Romney Marsh and Rye Bay.
Utilising an introduction, unique as far as I’m aware when it comes to crime thrillers, Shaw gives us life in the area from the perspective of an ageing badger. Once top of the heap, our badger has got slower and weaker and now avoids the inevitable fights with more aggressive dominant males as he digs new tunnels to keep himself safe, venturing out of the sett at night to forage for worms.
Our badger is living in an area which has been marked for a new housing development, unsurprisingly controversial and a local campaign has been building against the proposed new builds.
DS Cupidi’s daughter Zoe is involved because of her passionate commitment to wildlife in the area; she and a friend have been watching for badgers at night, hoping to be able to show that this protected species needs the development stopped to protect their habitat.
The badger is having the territory available to it severely curtailed which is how he comes to be digging up some old human bones buried on the proposed Whitefields development. Bones that tell the sad story of Trevor Woods, a young boy who went missing 25 years ago.
First though, Shaw takes us to a rather grander environment; that of a converted Oast house where a young estate agent is trying to impress his girlfriend by inviting her in for a spot of the other, knowing the house is vacant while up for sale.
Looking for somewhere to chill their prosecco the couple find the body of a man in the freezer. Thus begins quite a complex case where the motives sometimes seem obvious, but nothing is quite as you would expect it to be. This murder victim is someone Zoe knows. Vinnie Gibbons is a fellow naturalist and he was involved in the protests against the housing development. He has been poisoned.
Alex begins her investigation of Vinnie’s death but the trail leads her in some unexpected directions, reaching back in time as well as involving contemporary local politics and takes Alexandra to Parliament and some high powered meetings.
Shaw builds in some well thought through plot points and soon we have a number of leads, but which is the most important? Frankie Collins was arrested for badger baiting. Is that arrest for a vicious crime connected to Vinnie’s death?
There’s also, as Alex discovers, to her peril, a connection between some of the individuals involved and the history of the Thornhead Boys Boarding School. As if all that was not enough to keep Alex’s mind swirling, it turns out that the fabulous Jill Ferriter has just started to date Harry French, a young man deeply involved in the Whitefields Development.
I do love Jill Ferriter. She’s screamingly funny and forthright, especially when she’s had a drink and she’s a great foil for the more straight laced Cupidi and the pair work really well together. Zoe too is developing as a character and her relationship with fellow campaigner Bill South, (who Alex was responsible for sending to prison in a previous book) is creating an interesting triad.
As Alex’s investigations proceed apace she finds her own life in danger and knows that she must solve this case if she is to survive.
Shaw has once again taken the remarkable wildlife living at Dungeness, with over 600 different types of plant: a third of all those found in Britain and made it a strong character in his novel. The third person narration of the badger’s thoughts works remarkably well as we learn of this badger’s life and the dangers it faces from cars to farmers with shotguns and badger baiters – in short as humans try to wipe out badgers through a host of hostile actions.
Credit to Jasmine Blackborow whose narration is clear and straightforward and whose reading of the badger and Jill Ferriter’s voices in particular are full of warmth and humour.
Verdict: Complex, tense, exciting and beautifully plotted, this is a class act from William Shaw whose books are rich in atmosphere and character and which offer many current social and political themes for the reader to ponder on, without once detracting from the thrilling police procedural. This is powerful and compelling storytelling. I love this series.
I love the relationship between D.S.Cupidi and her younger colleague, Constable Jill Ferriter. Shaw’s setting always play a pivotal role in these books and they are rich and atmospheric as a result
In Grave’s End, Shaw draws on the geography of the coastal headland of Kent to create a mystery that is rich in detail of the area and picks up on its conservation designations as a national nature reserve, a Special Protection Area a Special Area of Conservation) and part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest of Dungeness, Romney Marsh and Rye Bay.
Utilising an introduction, unique as far as I’m aware when it comes to crime thrillers, Shaw gives us life in the area from the perspective of an ageing badger. Once top of the heap, our badger has got slower and weaker and now avoids the inevitable fights with more aggressive dominant males as he digs new tunnels to keep himself safe, venturing out of the sett at night to forage for worms.
Our badger is living in an area which has been marked for a new housing development, unsurprisingly controversial and a local campaign has been building against the proposed new builds.
DS Cupidi’s daughter Zoe is involved because of her passionate commitment to wildlife in the area; she and a friend have been watching for badgers at night, hoping to be able to show that this protected species needs the development stopped to protect their habitat.
The badger is having the territory available to it severely curtailed which is how he comes to be digging up some old human bones buried on the proposed Whitefields development. Bones that tell the sad story of Trevor Woods, a young boy who went missing 25 years ago.
First though, Shaw takes us to a rather grander environment; that of a converted Oast house where a young estate agent is trying to impress his girlfriend by inviting her in for a spot of the other, knowing the house is vacant while up for sale.
Looking for somewhere to chill their prosecco the couple find the body of a man in the freezer. Thus begins quite a complex case where the motives sometimes seem obvious, but nothing is quite as you would expect it to be. This murder victim is someone Zoe knows. Vinnie Gibbons is a fellow naturalist and he was involved in the protests against the housing development. He has been poisoned.
Alex begins her investigation of Vinnie’s death but the trail leads her in some unexpected directions, reaching back in time as well as involving contemporary local politics and takes Alexandra to Parliament and some high powered meetings.
Shaw builds in some well thought through plot points and soon we have a number of leads, but which is the most important? Frankie Collins was arrested for badger baiting. Is that arrest for a vicious crime connected to Vinnie’s death?
There’s also, as Alex discovers, to her peril, a connection between some of the individuals involved and the history of the Thornhead Boys Boarding School. As if all that was not enough to keep Alex’s mind swirling, it turns out that the fabulous Jill Ferriter has just started to date Harry French, a young man deeply involved in the Whitefields Development.
I do love Jill Ferriter. She’s screamingly funny and forthright, especially when she’s had a drink and she’s a great foil for the more straight laced Cupidi and the pair work really well together. Zoe too is developing as a character and her relationship with fellow campaigner Bill South, (who Alex was responsible for sending to prison in a previous book) is creating an interesting triad.
As Alex’s investigations proceed apace she finds her own life in danger and knows that she must solve this case if she is to survive.
Shaw has once again taken the remarkable wildlife living at Dungeness, with over 600 different types of plant: a third of all those found in Britain and made it a strong character in his novel. The third person narration of the badger’s thoughts works remarkably well as we learn of this badger’s life and the dangers it faces from cars to farmers with shotguns and badger baiters – in short as humans try to wipe out badgers through a host of hostile actions.
Credit to Jasmine Blackborow whose narration is clear and straightforward and whose reading of the badger and Jill Ferriter’s voices in particular are full of warmth and humour.
Verdict: Complex, tense, exciting and beautifully plotted, this is a class act from William Shaw whose books are rich in atmosphere and character and which offer many current social and political themes for the reader to ponder on, without once detracting from the thrilling police procedural. This is powerful and compelling storytelling. I love this series.
September 9, 2020
Grave’s End begins with a unique viewpoint—that of an old badger. In fact, a small but significant thread throughout the story is about the badger and how he survives. Due to the proposed development of a site for housing the badgers’ habitat is declining and, along with this disruption, they have to contend with the increasing lack of food, plus other dangers posed by humans. As the diggers cause the badgers’ tunnels to collapse, more are dug out, which is how human bones were unearthed.
When an an estate agent takes his girlfriend into a house the company have up for sale, with a bottle of Prosecco and thoughts of fun in the huge house, the last thing they expected was to find a body crammed into the freezer, when all they were looking for was somewhere to chill the Prosecco.
DS Alexandra Cupidi and DC Jill Ferriter have a cold case to solve, as well as a recent murder. The mystery of the bones is solved fairly quickly but ties in with the murder investigation. Local people are campaigning against the building of more houses and wildlife enthusiast Zoë, Alex’s daughter, is involved in the protests and knows the murdered man, as does former local copper Bill South.
The investigation takes an unexpected turn with a seemingly unconnected death, and rapidly develops into a much darker and complex case involving contentious issues, taking Alex into dangerous situations as past and present are linked.
The plot unfolds with several surprise twists and is well crafted, starting slowly, steadily gaining momentum and suspense and includes corrupt people in power, historic abuse and, of course, murder. Character development is clear as we learn more about the main players — Alex, Zoë, Jill and Bill South — how they interact and the growing relationships between them.
As always, the book is full of atmosphere and detail about the area, highlighting the conflict surrounding much needed housing against the destruction of the countryside and the effect on wildlife habitats.
I love this series, the writing, multi-layered, well drawn characters and location all stand out, along with the interesting storylines.
When an an estate agent takes his girlfriend into a house the company have up for sale, with a bottle of Prosecco and thoughts of fun in the huge house, the last thing they expected was to find a body crammed into the freezer, when all they were looking for was somewhere to chill the Prosecco.
DS Alexandra Cupidi and DC Jill Ferriter have a cold case to solve, as well as a recent murder. The mystery of the bones is solved fairly quickly but ties in with the murder investigation. Local people are campaigning against the building of more houses and wildlife enthusiast Zoë, Alex’s daughter, is involved in the protests and knows the murdered man, as does former local copper Bill South.
The investigation takes an unexpected turn with a seemingly unconnected death, and rapidly develops into a much darker and complex case involving contentious issues, taking Alex into dangerous situations as past and present are linked.
The plot unfolds with several surprise twists and is well crafted, starting slowly, steadily gaining momentum and suspense and includes corrupt people in power, historic abuse and, of course, murder. Character development is clear as we learn more about the main players — Alex, Zoë, Jill and Bill South — how they interact and the growing relationships between them.
As always, the book is full of atmosphere and detail about the area, highlighting the conflict surrounding much needed housing against the destruction of the countryside and the effect on wildlife habitats.
I love this series, the writing, multi-layered, well drawn characters and location all stand out, along with the interesting storylines.
May 7, 2020
I have to say, I agree with Val McDermid, you have to read these books. I am sure again, I’ve missed the middle book, so shall have to try and catch up. I feel I’ve missed something along the way. They are always different in that a lot of topics are covered and the plethora of information on wildlife is just lovely. Being an animal lover these are right up my street. Reminds me of the author Faith Martins books, she’s well up on wildlife.
This book is also different in that it also told from the badgers perspective, and the way they live their lives. I was fascinated with the setts and the hierarchy aspect of it all, and what they like to eat. I think badgers on the whole get a raw deal from humans anyway, and we could learn a lot from wild creatures.
However, I must not digress. The story centres around a huge development of new homes, the politics involved and of course the wildlife. This again, is a controversial subject. I know we need houses, but in a minute there’ll be no countryside left.
Zoe is in there campaigning for the animals, and so is Bill South. They do make a formidable team. There is a body found in the freezer of a beautiful empty house, but no one knows who he is. Then the remains are found of a young lad who went missing. All this, and really no clues, no one wants to help Alex, her constable Jill, has a dodgy friend, and the powers of corruption are there in the background, wielding their power and corruption, and that’s just the ones running the country!
I did hold my breath in a few places, as I thought Alex was a bit daft venturing off on her own like she did .....
I do hope that William continues with these characters, you can almost feel the countryside air and the animals running around at night.
My thanks to the author, the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
This book is also different in that it also told from the badgers perspective, and the way they live their lives. I was fascinated with the setts and the hierarchy aspect of it all, and what they like to eat. I think badgers on the whole get a raw deal from humans anyway, and we could learn a lot from wild creatures.
However, I must not digress. The story centres around a huge development of new homes, the politics involved and of course the wildlife. This again, is a controversial subject. I know we need houses, but in a minute there’ll be no countryside left.
Zoe is in there campaigning for the animals, and so is Bill South. They do make a formidable team. There is a body found in the freezer of a beautiful empty house, but no one knows who he is. Then the remains are found of a young lad who went missing. All this, and really no clues, no one wants to help Alex, her constable Jill, has a dodgy friend, and the powers of corruption are there in the background, wielding their power and corruption, and that’s just the ones running the country!
I did hold my breath in a few places, as I thought Alex was a bit daft venturing off on her own like she did .....
I do hope that William continues with these characters, you can almost feel the countryside air and the animals running around at night.
My thanks to the author, the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
May 30, 2021
This is another gripping, well researched and well written story. It reveals the shady practices that allow developers to purchase parts of the UK countryside and build, or often not build, housing estates. A number of the chapters are written from the perspective of an elderly badger, who is being challenged both by stinky humans and younger badgers. There are lots of characters in the book and quite a few victims. With hindsight, I should have kept a note of who everyone was. I didn't feel any great connection to any of the victims and I found DCI Cupidi's resilience in the face of various nasty things that happened to her to be a little far-fetched, but it was good to see William South is still in the series.
May 20, 2020
Another outstanding book from William Shaw.
This book, published as Graves End, starts off from the view point of a badger, and the badgers run throughout the novel providing a unique point of view as the humans wrangle over a housing development and the bodies pile up.
Packed with twists and turns, Graves End follows DS Alex Cupidi who has appeared in several of Shaw’s previous books. We also reencounter former copper William South and Cupidi’s teenage daughter Zoe, as well as Helen, her mother.
Shaw kept me guessing throughout the book and I would definitely recommend it to people who enjoy intelligent and original detective stores as well as those who love the Kent coast.
This book, published as Graves End, starts off from the view point of a badger, and the badgers run throughout the novel providing a unique point of view as the humans wrangle over a housing development and the bodies pile up.
Packed with twists and turns, Graves End follows DS Alex Cupidi who has appeared in several of Shaw’s previous books. We also reencounter former copper William South and Cupidi’s teenage daughter Zoe, as well as Helen, her mother.
Shaw kept me guessing throughout the book and I would definitely recommend it to people who enjoy intelligent and original detective stores as well as those who love the Kent coast.
May 18, 2020
This is book three in the excellent series to feature DS Alexandra Cupidi. I would strongly advise the reader to start with book one for background detail. I really love the coastal location in Kent and the recurring characters and their development. This book has a new character, a badger, and the very unusual thread told from his perspective. When a dead body is found in a freezer of a house for sale, Alexandra is investigating with Jill, her partner. This book is about property development, wildlife and is filled with atmosphere. It is beautifully written and well researched. I have no hesitation in recommending it as well as the author's other books. Thanks to net Galley for my ARC.
July 29, 2021
A bit less suspenseful than the other books in the series, but still highly humane, written with simplicity and heart. The characters are still very authentic and interesting. I enjoyed it, too, even if a little less than the previous ones I read by Shaw.
October 6, 2021
It took me ages to get into this one.I didn’t think it was quite up to the author’s usual edge of seat quality.
October 24, 2020
Grave's End is part of the DS Alexandra Cupidi thrillers set around the Kent Serious Crime Squad. I read this as a stand-alone but it's actually part of a series. I loved the main character and always enjoy stories that have environmental element to them. I enjoyed the chapters narrated by the old badger and learnt so much about these beautiful creatures. I will be reading the beginning of the series now. With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my digital copy.
May 2, 2020
This is the third (or fourth if you count The Birdwatcher) in the DS Alex Cupidi police crime series and the author is definitely into his stride. The emphasis is very much on narrative, with established characters only gradually revealing other aspects to their backstory, avoiding distractions from the pace.
This is great if you are looking for a gripping crime thriller with a multiple body count and action. Cupidi is put into life-threatening situations during the investigation on more than one occasion. They are excitingly written and understandably traumatic.
For someone who lives near a lot of the sites in which the novel is set, the author has a really great sense of place and can easily bring them to life on the page.
The novel was environmentally political, with its main plot based on a real contentious proposed housing plan in the area, Otterpool Garden Town. William does offer both sides of the argument but I think firmly comes down on the side of the badgers!
A welcome addition to the series and to Kent-based crime fiction
This is great if you are looking for a gripping crime thriller with a multiple body count and action. Cupidi is put into life-threatening situations during the investigation on more than one occasion. They are excitingly written and understandably traumatic.
For someone who lives near a lot of the sites in which the novel is set, the author has a really great sense of place and can easily bring them to life on the page.
The novel was environmentally political, with its main plot based on a real contentious proposed housing plan in the area, Otterpool Garden Town. William does offer both sides of the argument but I think firmly comes down on the side of the badgers!
A welcome addition to the series and to Kent-based crime fiction
November 7, 2021
From the Goodreads blurb: an unidentified body is found in a freezer. DS Alexandra Cupidi couldn't have realised that this bizarre discovery will be connected to the crisis in housing, the politics of environmentalism and specifically the protection given to badgers by the law. But there are dangerous links between these strange, reclusive, fiercely territorial creatures and the activism of Cupidi's teenage daughter Zoe and her friend Bill South, her colleague Constable Jill Ferriter's dating habits and long forgotten historic crimes of sexual abuse - and murder.
The badgers are a nice focal point. An interestingly tangled plot. Skates a little close to Longmire style Energize Bunny, but we will forgive Cupidi on this one.
This was book #49 on our 2021 Read-alouds List and book #26 on our Read-alouds with Lutrecia List.
THE TRAWLERMAN is next... and then we will just have to hope that Shaw is hard at work on a new one.
The badgers are a nice focal point. An interestingly tangled plot. Skates a little close to Longmire style Energize Bunny, but we will forgive Cupidi on this one.
This was book #49 on our 2021 Read-alouds List and book #26 on our Read-alouds with Lutrecia List.
THE TRAWLERMAN is next... and then we will just have to hope that Shaw is hard at work on a new one.
April 7, 2020
Another great novel by the excellent William Shaw. This is the third in his Kent-based series featuring DS Alexandra Cupidi and her sidekick Jill. When a corpse is found in the freezer of an empty house there seems to be a connection to a local building development. Politicians, schoolteachers and badgers all feature heavily, there are a number of false trails and Alex is put through the wringer before the case is finally cracked. Superbly written and fascinating, as always.
May 30, 2020
Grave's End by William Shaw is the third novel with DS Alexandra Cupidi as the main character in a wide branching police procedural involving badgers, the environment, politics, and the past.
Grave's End starts with alternating chapters of a surprising start. One aspect details the life and behaviors of badgers, with the other aspect being the tale of humans. Though this may seem odd, Shaw successfully does blend the two branches into a full tale where both worlds converge in a sensible and interesting manner.
The human story starts with a young couple, with the proclivity for sexual encounters in extravagant real estate properties, discovering a male corpse in a deep freezer. Soon, the man is identified as a local environmentalist and animal rights activist and DS Alexandra Cupidi ponders if his death is related to an ongoing environmental battle between locals, environmentalists, and developers over the development of a natural area.
The investigation soon widens to include politics, powerful figures, a now-closed boarding school, more deaths, and the lives of characters previously introduced by Shaw in previous novels. Through these novels, Shaw has continued to develop the characters to allow them to grow and remain interesting, without being boring or stale.
Shaw continues to write interesting novels in this series and his novels are highly recommended to those that enjoy well developed police procedurals.
Grave's End starts with alternating chapters of a surprising start. One aspect details the life and behaviors of badgers, with the other aspect being the tale of humans. Though this may seem odd, Shaw successfully does blend the two branches into a full tale where both worlds converge in a sensible and interesting manner.
The human story starts with a young couple, with the proclivity for sexual encounters in extravagant real estate properties, discovering a male corpse in a deep freezer. Soon, the man is identified as a local environmentalist and animal rights activist and DS Alexandra Cupidi ponders if his death is related to an ongoing environmental battle between locals, environmentalists, and developers over the development of a natural area.
The investigation soon widens to include politics, powerful figures, a now-closed boarding school, more deaths, and the lives of characters previously introduced by Shaw in previous novels. Through these novels, Shaw has continued to develop the characters to allow them to grow and remain interesting, without being boring or stale.
Shaw continues to write interesting novels in this series and his novels are highly recommended to those that enjoy well developed police procedurals.
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