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Kings Lake Investigation #2
On Eden Street
“He might be a nobody, but he was their nobody and their first case.” The new Kings Lake Central murder squad is about to spend its first morning on team-building exercises and reviewing cold cases when the call comes in that the body of one of the city’s rough sleepers has been found in a shop doorway. It happens, someone says, he isn’t the first to die on the streets and he won’t be the last, but the story the new team begins to uncover is far from routine. New characters appear and new relationships form as the pressure grows on Detective Chief Inspector Cara Freeman to deliver a result and show that Kings Lake’s first specialist team is worth the money. Detective Sergeant Christopher Waters discovers links to a previous investigation, learns that there is more than one way to run a successful squad and finds flower-arranging more interesting than he would ever have imagined.
315 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2020
820 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
Peter Grainger
71 books874 followersA British author, the writer Peter Grainger is a well known novelist of mystery fiction, largely focused on detective lead investigations. This his been the prime focus for much of his career, as he takes much of his inspiration from that of other infamous British detectives, such as Inspector Morse. The influence is clearly evident here, as he brings his own detective, DC Smith, to life, along with other books as well. Setting his mysteries firmly within the world of British detective fiction it is clear where his tastes lie as an author of his increasingly popular stories, stories that only increase in popularity as time goes on.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
July 11, 2021
Kudos to Peter Grainger for this solid police procedural. This is the second in the King Street series. And it doesn’t get any more down to earth than this. A new Murder squad is on day one. Forget time for team building and exchanging phone numbers, a dead body has been found. Someone who had been sleeping rough has been killed. It doesn’t take long for the investigation to become more convoluted than expected.
We get to see the team get to know each other and learn to work together. I liked the entire team and appreciated that Grainger works hard to give us a good feel for everyone, not just Waters.
It’s an interesting, solid story. It’s not fast paced, but felt very realistic. The ending was left a wee bit murky.
I will definitely be following up with the next one in the series.
Gildart Jackson was a perfect narrator, giving it a nice sense of gravitas.
We get to see the team get to know each other and learn to work together. I liked the entire team and appreciated that Grainger works hard to give us a good feel for everyone, not just Waters.
It’s an interesting, solid story. It’s not fast paced, but felt very realistic. The ending was left a wee bit murky.
I will definitely be following up with the next one in the series.
Gildart Jackson was a perfect narrator, giving it a nice sense of gravitas.
February 7, 2020
As good as ever
I really enjoy Peter Grainger’s work and thought this latest book was excellent. The ending took me by surprise but then I realised it couldn’t really have ended any other way. These are books for grown-ups and also something of a master class in human relations. I can’t wait for the next in the series and I pay tribute to the author for the way he has seamlessly introduced a new team to star in the novels, whilst paying tribute to the original protagonist. Well done - I care about these people, too.
I really enjoy Peter Grainger’s work and thought this latest book was excellent. The ending took me by surprise but then I realised it couldn’t really have ended any other way. These are books for grown-ups and also something of a master class in human relations. I can’t wait for the next in the series and I pay tribute to the author for the way he has seamlessly introduced a new team to star in the novels, whilst paying tribute to the original protagonist. Well done - I care about these people, too.
March 25, 2020
I have been a faithful reader of the DC Smith series so there was no confusion for me picking up on this Kings Lake series considering Smith makes a cameo. If you have not read the earlier books there will be some confusion as there are quite a few references to past experiences.
Chris Waters comes into his own and meets a new lady whilst adjusting to a new murder squad, new boss and co-workers. He is now in the habit of visiting a Jazz bar on Friday nights and hoping to sell his apartment.
A homeless man is murdered in a shop doorway due to stealing another man's identity. Interesting investigation by the team under pressure to succeed and justify their jobs. No paid overtime, etc.
Kindle Unlimited
Chris Waters comes into his own and meets a new lady whilst adjusting to a new murder squad, new boss and co-workers. He is now in the habit of visiting a Jazz bar on Friday nights and hoping to sell his apartment.
A homeless man is murdered in a shop doorway due to stealing another man's identity. Interesting investigation by the team under pressure to succeed and justify their jobs. No paid overtime, etc.
Kindle Unlimited
February 15, 2020
Usual "couldn't put it down" book by Peter Grainger, following on from Songbird & the previous compelling DC Smith series. Subtle introduction of new characters to blend with former well loved people (we'll exclude Wilson & O'Leary from these) leaving us with great expectations of further investigations. Started reading about 6:30 finished 14:50, only minimal housework completed today. Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
February 10, 2022
I’m thoroughly hooked on this British police procedural series.
January 14, 2024
DCI Cara Freeman has assembled her new squad and they have their first case - a homeless man killed in a noodle shop doorway on Eden Street. it seems fairly straightforward, until it isn't.
You could read On Eden Street as a standalone, there's plenty of background (and spoilers by the dozen for previous books) but if you enjoy police procedurals at all, do yourself a favor and start with An Accidental Death. It's so much more fun if you've watched Chris Waters rise through the ranks and made the acquaintance of the Detective Sergeant Smith everyone in this book remembers so fondly.
I'm so happy Mr. Grainger has continued this series and am very pleased with the new direction. I see lots of opportunities for the author and his characters to stretch themselves, but the underlying intelligence, wit and integrity of the team remains.
An audio version is due out later this year, and I'll be in line for that as well. Gildart Jackson does a marvelous job, his timing and delivery of Grainger's dry wit add another level of enjoyment to a cleverly written series.
You could read On Eden Street as a standalone, there's plenty of background (and spoilers by the dozen for previous books) but if you enjoy police procedurals at all, do yourself a favor and start with An Accidental Death. It's so much more fun if you've watched Chris Waters rise through the ranks and made the acquaintance of the Detective Sergeant Smith everyone in this book remembers so fondly.
I'm so happy Mr. Grainger has continued this series and am very pleased with the new direction. I see lots of opportunities for the author and his characters to stretch themselves, but the underlying intelligence, wit and integrity of the team remains.
An audio version is due out later this year, and I'll be in line for that as well. Gildart Jackson does a marvelous job, his timing and delivery of Grainger's dry wit add another level of enjoyment to a cleverly written series.
February 24, 2020
This is my 10th Peter Grainger book and I still like them very much. Perhaps this one was not my favorite but it was not bad. I do miss DC Smith though. I watched the British TV show A Touch of Frost and I am convinced Frost is DC Smith. I read the last two books on my Kindle as they were free but I do miss the Gildart Jackson audio versions. His tone is spot on for these books.
February 7, 2020
This story seemed to flow much better than the last two from the author. I felt that maybe he was getting more comfortable both in writing this new storyline and with the characters' "personalities".
Thinking back on it I, oddly, have to admit that one of the "victims" was the character I most liked. I rather hope Peter liked him as well, and manages to keep him around/reuse him in the future.
While I may like some of Peter's stories better than others, I always enjoy the quality of his writing. I may even come back and give this a 5 after I have had some time to think about things. Maybe what I need is a four and a half? 😉
4 stars mean that I will miss the characters after I have finished the book and will probably re-read it. 5 stars mean that I will re-read the book many times in the future.
Thinking back on it I, oddly, have to admit that one of the "victims" was the character I most liked. I rather hope Peter liked him as well, and manages to keep him around/reuse him in the future.
While I may like some of Peter's stories better than others, I always enjoy the quality of his writing. I may even come back and give this a 5 after I have had some time to think about things. Maybe what I need is a four and a half? 😉
4 stars mean that I will miss the characters after I have finished the book and will probably re-read it. 5 stars mean that I will re-read the book many times in the future.
July 29, 2022
★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S ON EDEN STREET ABOUT?
Sure, in Songbird we got a glimmer of what to expect from DCI Cara Freeman's Murder Squad, but this book opens on the first day with the entire team in their office. They expect to get to know each other, spend some time chatting, hear something from Freeman and their new DI about how things are going to go for them—but that doesn't happen. Before they can much further than hearing everyone's name, they're called to investigate a murder. A homeless man's body has been discovered blocking the entrance to a restaurant downtown.
Instead of through awkward conversations, this squad gets to know each other by seeing them at work—canvassing for witnesses, looking for security cameras, dealing with the officers on-scene, and so on.
They will eventually uncover a connection to a previous case the King's Lake Central detectives worked on—and encounter a witness that DS Chris Waters encountered in yet another case.
But mostly what they'll learn is that nothing in this case—nothing—is what it seems. From a blind woman having to "rescue" the detectives from a dog guarding the body, to the identity of the victim, to how easily things can go astray when a helpful and efficient office worker does their job just a little too well...this new squad is going to get off to a very bumpy start.
THE MURDER SQUAD
Oh...I really like this new group. There are a bunch of new characters brought in here and we don't get to spend enough time with them. But I appreciated what time we got with them—I think going forward this is going to be a group of characters I really enjoy—more than the King's Lake detective squad and the petty rivalries (although those rivalries aren't gone as is clear in the beginning of this book).
We get to know DCI Cara Freeman better as we spend more time with her—and as Chris gets to work with/evaluate her more. I'm seriously enjoying her.
There's one new character (name withheld to prevent spoilers/lack thereof) in particular that we get less of than the rest. I think it was purposeful, and I can't wait to see why that character is on board and what Grainger is going to eventually do with her. I trust that all will be revealed, and I'm super curious.
But the best new addition is the new Detective Inspector. Over the last handful of years, I've met a lot of fictional DIs, and I don't think I've met one like DI Green. We don't get to know him incredibly well or anything, we don't know what makes him tick yet. But the ticking is a lot of fun to watch.
This is primarily Chris Waters' series now, however, and we spend the most time with him—and I couldn't be happier with that. It's great to watch him develop as a detective and as a person. It's similar to the evolution of Eve Ronin—this isn't about the investigations of a seasoned pro, it's about watching a promising young detective fulfill that promise.
SHADOW OF D.C.
I'm not sure at this stage of the series who's having a harder time letting go of DC Smith—the detectives of King's Lake, the readers, or Grainger.
I liked the way that DC himself appeared in this novel—it felt very natural. And, of course, Chris is going to think about his mentor a lot, as are old colleagues. But it just felt like we got too much about him overall. Too many callbacks, references to other cases, etc. But if you ran down a list of each reference/appearance of Smith in this book, and asked if they should be cut individually, I'd say no to each one—they fit, helped moved things along, served the character and moment...but the cumulative weight of them was too much.
Does that make sense? Any Grainger fans out there have some input for me?
GILDART JACKSON'S WORK
I don't have anything new to say about Jackson at this point. I thoroughly enjoy his work, I can't imagine listening to one of this series with anyone else, nor do I think I'd enjoy reading one on my own half as much.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT ON EDEN STREET?
Grainger had a healthy agenda going into this: introduce and begin to establish several new characters, help the existing characters settle into new roles, help us get a better handle on Freeman (who is both new and established at this point), touch base with DC, start a new personal arc for Chris, and, in between all that, tell a good story about a murder investigation. And he succeeds so well on all fronts.
Long-time readers/listeners of this series are used to the way that Grainger will give a resolution/solution to the investigation that will fly against expectations—both of the detectives at the beginning of the book and most of what Police Procedural fans expect to see. It's largely a given for this series. But to start with a dead homeless veteran as this opens and to end where we do? Nope. No way did anyone see >98% of this coming.
But by the time the book closes, there is simply no other way for things to have gone. Grainger's at the top of his game here, and it's to be celebrated. My friends and/or readers—please take my advice and start reading these books, you don't know what you're missing.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S ON EDEN STREET ABOUT?
Sure, in Songbird we got a glimmer of what to expect from DCI Cara Freeman's Murder Squad, but this book opens on the first day with the entire team in their office. They expect to get to know each other, spend some time chatting, hear something from Freeman and their new DI about how things are going to go for them—but that doesn't happen. Before they can much further than hearing everyone's name, they're called to investigate a murder. A homeless man's body has been discovered blocking the entrance to a restaurant downtown.
Instead of through awkward conversations, this squad gets to know each other by seeing them at work—canvassing for witnesses, looking for security cameras, dealing with the officers on-scene, and so on.
They will eventually uncover a connection to a previous case the King's Lake Central detectives worked on—and encounter a witness that DS Chris Waters encountered in yet another case.
But mostly what they'll learn is that nothing in this case—nothing—is what it seems. From a blind woman having to "rescue" the detectives from a dog guarding the body, to the identity of the victim, to how easily things can go astray when a helpful and efficient office worker does their job just a little too well...this new squad is going to get off to a very bumpy start.
THE MURDER SQUAD
Oh...I really like this new group. There are a bunch of new characters brought in here and we don't get to spend enough time with them. But I appreciated what time we got with them—I think going forward this is going to be a group of characters I really enjoy—more than the King's Lake detective squad and the petty rivalries (although those rivalries aren't gone as is clear in the beginning of this book).
We get to know DCI Cara Freeman better as we spend more time with her—and as Chris gets to work with/evaluate her more. I'm seriously enjoying her.
There's one new character (name withheld to prevent spoilers/lack thereof) in particular that we get less of than the rest. I think it was purposeful, and I can't wait to see why that character is on board and what Grainger is going to eventually do with her. I trust that all will be revealed, and I'm super curious.
But the best new addition is the new Detective Inspector. Over the last handful of years, I've met a lot of fictional DIs, and I don't think I've met one like DI Green. We don't get to know him incredibly well or anything, we don't know what makes him tick yet. But the ticking is a lot of fun to watch.
This is primarily Chris Waters' series now, however, and we spend the most time with him—and I couldn't be happier with that. It's great to watch him develop as a detective and as a person. It's similar to the evolution of Eve Ronin—this isn't about the investigations of a seasoned pro, it's about watching a promising young detective fulfill that promise.
SHADOW OF D.C.
I'm not sure at this stage of the series who's having a harder time letting go of DC Smith—the detectives of King's Lake, the readers, or Grainger.
I liked the way that DC himself appeared in this novel—it felt very natural. And, of course, Chris is going to think about his mentor a lot, as are old colleagues. But it just felt like we got too much about him overall. Too many callbacks, references to other cases, etc. But if you ran down a list of each reference/appearance of Smith in this book, and asked if they should be cut individually, I'd say no to each one—they fit, helped moved things along, served the character and moment...but the cumulative weight of them was too much.
Does that make sense? Any Grainger fans out there have some input for me?
GILDART JACKSON'S WORK
I don't have anything new to say about Jackson at this point. I thoroughly enjoy his work, I can't imagine listening to one of this series with anyone else, nor do I think I'd enjoy reading one on my own half as much.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT ON EDEN STREET?
Grainger had a healthy agenda going into this: introduce and begin to establish several new characters, help the existing characters settle into new roles, help us get a better handle on Freeman (who is both new and established at this point), touch base with DC, start a new personal arc for Chris, and, in between all that, tell a good story about a murder investigation. And he succeeds so well on all fronts.
Long-time readers/listeners of this series are used to the way that Grainger will give a resolution/solution to the investigation that will fly against expectations—both of the detectives at the beginning of the book and most of what Police Procedural fans expect to see. It's largely a given for this series. But to start with a dead homeless veteran as this opens and to end where we do? Nope. No way did anyone see >98% of this coming.
But by the time the book closes, there is simply no other way for things to have gone. Grainger's at the top of his game here, and it's to be celebrated. My friends and/or readers—please take my advice and start reading these books, you don't know what you're missing.
February 6, 2020
Another great book from an author who deserves to be more widely read. The evolution of the character list has not lessened my enjoyment of this series. Good plots and a literate style makes it a pleasure to read
February 8, 2020
Wow, another great book from Peter. I didn’t know how it would all work without Smith, but it does, it was great that he was there a bit, hope that continues. Hard to put it down, great book, looking forward to the next one. Thank you Peter.
February 5, 2020
I really enjoyed the D.C. Smith series by Peter Grainger, and his second series is great, too!
Read Songbird first which precedes On Eden Street.
Read Songbird first which precedes On Eden Street.
August 11, 2021
Another first rate mystery/police procedural by Peter Grainger. This is the 2nd in the Kings Lake series which follows 8 earlier ones in which DC Smith is the main protagonist. DC has retired but makes cameo appearances in this new series...his old team is now in the new murder squad under the command of DCI Cara Freeman, a formidable but quite approachable leader who must prove the resources spent on this new unit are not being wasted.
A street person has been killed in a doorway on Eden Street in downtown Kings Lake apparently by a professional killer. The team wonders if the victim is really a veteran of a highly ranked military regiment as his ID card implies. What follows is a well-crafted, sit on the edge of your seat, mystery with a surprising but satisfying ending. The various team members and their lives are fleshed out especially Chris Waters, the chief protagonist. I really care about these characters and am so happy the author has continued the Kings Lake story line even with DC Smith no longer at the center of the action (though WWSD? remains a frequent question/mantra of his former team mates!). I can't wait to see where this series takes the murder squad.
A street person has been killed in a doorway on Eden Street in downtown Kings Lake apparently by a professional killer. The team wonders if the victim is really a veteran of a highly ranked military regiment as his ID card implies. What follows is a well-crafted, sit on the edge of your seat, mystery with a surprising but satisfying ending. The various team members and their lives are fleshed out especially Chris Waters, the chief protagonist. I really care about these characters and am so happy the author has continued the Kings Lake story line even with DC Smith no longer at the center of the action (though WWSD? remains a frequent question/mantra of his former team mates!). I can't wait to see where this series takes the murder squad.
July 31, 2023
I think Chris has an addiction - he keeps getting involved with girls peripheral to the case. Another interesting story.
March 25, 2025
Even though DC makes no appearance except through someone’s phone call, this book, I feel bad about saying, is just as good a story without him. New characters are real people, Chris has a conscience moment which he plays correctly, and a new interest. Have already started the next installment.
January 5, 2024
This book had some interesting twists. I like Waters but his track record with relationships is dismal and I hope this new one continues. I don’t really like Freeman. She is a bit much. I miss Smith!!!
June 21, 2024
Great second book i am loving the series. Walters is really developing as a main character. Just enough mentions of DC to keep him in our heads but not too much to annoy. Good storyline well worked through.
November 27, 2020
Police procedural with a nice pace. This is the second in the series and the main characters are really starting to come to life.
February 4, 2020
Good read, as always
Fast paced, engrossing story. Ending felt like it should have said “to be continued”. Guess I have to wait for the next book to see if it will be. Always enjoy this author’s books.
Fast paced, engrossing story. Ending felt like it should have said “to be continued”. Guess I have to wait for the next book to see if it will be. Always enjoy this author’s books.
February 5, 2020
Great read so glad the Smith characters continue on. Please keep this series coming, I like the story lines and new additions.
February 12, 2020
My reviews of Mr. Grainger’s work seem to be becoming somewhat repetitive. So—let me repeat...If you enjoy murder mysteries authored by a superb writer...don’t miss this series, nor its predecessor series, D.C. Smith Investigations.
Mr. Grainger always delivers a first-class and captivating read. As his readers have come to expect, On Eden Street is another page-turner that had this reader engrossed until the early hours. Each novel not only contains an excellent, well plotted, murder mystery, but continues to give the reader more insight into his wonderful cast of characters. His character building and development have been top-notch from book one. I care about these fictional people and cannot get enough of Mr. Grainger’s novels.
In ‘On Eden Street’ we see again some beloved existing characters and meet new ones as DCI Cara Freeman’s new Murder Squad tackles its first case. I found it fascinating to watch the reaction of members of the old team to the working style of new team members. Interesting times ahead, I’m sure, as members of this team learn to work together and settle into a whole new team dynamic.
Over the course of this series, D.C. Smith, the original protagonist, claimed a firm spot in my reader-heart. I hope that we continue to see him make an appearance in subsequent novels.
I have no hesitation in recommending this novel, or any in the series. Each book is both a continuing story and a stand-alone mystery. If you haven’t read the series from Book 1, I definitely suggest you should.
Mr. Grainger always delivers a first-class and captivating read. As his readers have come to expect, On Eden Street is another page-turner that had this reader engrossed until the early hours. Each novel not only contains an excellent, well plotted, murder mystery, but continues to give the reader more insight into his wonderful cast of characters. His character building and development have been top-notch from book one. I care about these fictional people and cannot get enough of Mr. Grainger’s novels.
In ‘On Eden Street’ we see again some beloved existing characters and meet new ones as DCI Cara Freeman’s new Murder Squad tackles its first case. I found it fascinating to watch the reaction of members of the old team to the working style of new team members. Interesting times ahead, I’m sure, as members of this team learn to work together and settle into a whole new team dynamic.
Over the course of this series, D.C. Smith, the original protagonist, claimed a firm spot in my reader-heart. I hope that we continue to see him make an appearance in subsequent novels.
I have no hesitation in recommending this novel, or any in the series. Each book is both a continuing story and a stand-alone mystery. If you haven’t read the series from Book 1, I definitely suggest you should.
May 3, 2020
Welcome back to Kings Lake! The second installment of Kings Lake Investigations did not disappoint. Grainger continued the characters seamlessly and the addition of John Murray back to the fold was perfect. There was a cameo of my favorite retired character -- and that is always needed and welcome. I enjoyed the focus on Waters as the primary voice. He is growing and changing and becoming the leader we want. Waters faced some difficult decisions in this chapter of his tale and they were not all comfortable. They were all valuable, I'd say. Michael (one of the characters introduced in the case the Murder Squad was working) is an engrossing character. I would not be unhappy if he returned in the future. Freeman and Serena were present and significant, and the new DI Tomas Green is an excellent addition to the team. There are still questions to ask and avenues to explore with the rest of the new members to the team - so many more places for Grainger to take us.
Gildart Jackson was magnificent as he always is when narrating Peter Grainger's work.
Already looking forward to the next KLI.
Gildart Jackson was magnificent as he always is when narrating Peter Grainger's work.
Already looking forward to the next KLI.
February 20, 2020
Best series I've ever had the pleasure to read
Years ago I ran across "DC Smith". Every inch a gentleman , nothing got by him. His "new team" was made up of smart but "out of the box thinkers" .
The series was never meant to a long time ting, however, Americans like me, pestered Mr. Grainger to no end and much to my delight DC did take a back seat, but his x-team carried on with new team members.
I highly recommend you start with the "DC SMITH SERIES" and then continue with "A KINGS LAKE INVESTIGATION" !
NOTE TO AUTHOR: Thank you so much for continuing these EXCELLENT SERIES!
Years ago I ran across "DC Smith". Every inch a gentleman , nothing got by him. His "new team" was made up of smart but "out of the box thinkers" .
The series was never meant to a long time ting, however, Americans like me, pestered Mr. Grainger to no end and much to my delight DC did take a back seat, but his x-team carried on with new team members.
I highly recommend you start with the "DC SMITH SERIES" and then continue with "A KINGS LAKE INVESTIGATION" !
NOTE TO AUTHOR: Thank you so much for continuing these EXCELLENT SERIES!
January 16, 2021
I have enjoyed every book in this series.
Actually the Willows and Lane series is also top notch so let me restate that.
I have enjoyed every book by this author.
A major character in this book is blind. She is a witness and develops a friendship with the protagonist. She lives independently, runs a shop, and has a guide dog. I do not know if her situation is portrayed realistically or not.
Hmm . . . her taste in music may be an unlikely coincidence but maybe not. Jazz seems popular in UK crime.
References to prior cases are important so I suggest readers start with An Accidental Death. That is book #1 in the DC Smith series of 8 books.
The Kings Lake series follows the DC Smith books. Songbird is Kings Lake #1. On Eden Street is Kings Lake #2.
I tend to write minimalist reviews, often just tags, so I'm not going to gush.
Most people would justifiably rate this a 5 star book. I write these reviews for me though and I save 5 for masterpieces.
The mystery is tight, the clues are foreshadowed if you are paying attention. The protagonist holds back a tiny bit, but not unfairly. The Gods and coincidences do not solve Peter Grainger's mysteries. Thoughtful detectives working in a team solve the crimes.
Violence and brutality are not glorified.
Women are not props even when the protagonist is a male.
I like the minor asides about grammar. That's not for everyone but, rest assured, it is not overdone to distraction. The humor is appropriate and subtle.
Gildart Jackson, the narrator is perfect. He and Peter Grainger are a match made in heaven.
I can't leave without referencing the Willows and Lane series of 2 books. I would love another book in that series to learn how the women are getting along but I can hardly complain when the Kings Lake series is so satisfying.
Lane: A Case For Willows And Lane and One-way Tickets: A Case For Willows and Lane
Actually the Willows and Lane series is also top notch so let me restate that.
I have enjoyed every book by this author.
A major character in this book is blind. She is a witness and develops a friendship with the protagonist. She lives independently, runs a shop, and has a guide dog. I do not know if her situation is portrayed realistically or not.
Hmm . . . her taste in music may be an unlikely coincidence but maybe not. Jazz seems popular in UK crime.
References to prior cases are important so I suggest readers start with An Accidental Death. That is book #1 in the DC Smith series of 8 books.
The Kings Lake series follows the DC Smith books. Songbird is Kings Lake #1. On Eden Street is Kings Lake #2.
I tend to write minimalist reviews, often just tags, so I'm not going to gush.
Most people would justifiably rate this a 5 star book. I write these reviews for me though and I save 5 for masterpieces.
The mystery is tight, the clues are foreshadowed if you are paying attention. The protagonist holds back a tiny bit, but not unfairly. The Gods and coincidences do not solve Peter Grainger's mysteries. Thoughtful detectives working in a team solve the crimes.
Violence and brutality are not glorified.
Women are not props even when the protagonist is a male.
I like the minor asides about grammar. That's not for everyone but, rest assured, it is not overdone to distraction. The humor is appropriate and subtle.
Gildart Jackson, the narrator is perfect. He and Peter Grainger are a match made in heaven.
I can't leave without referencing the Willows and Lane series of 2 books. I would love another book in that series to learn how the women are getting along but I can hardly complain when the Kings Lake series is so satisfying.
Lane: A Case For Willows And Lane and One-way Tickets: A Case For Willows and Lane
June 24, 2021
I've been saving this book for a while, spending time with authors who are new to me -- and quite often disappointing. I plunged into "On Eden Street" (part of the "Lake" series of novels by Peter Grainger) because I wanted to read something I knew I would like.
The "Lake" series centres on the police force once lead by DC Smith, who has since retired. The loss of the Smith is somewhat offset by the fact that his presence still occupies the station and the police that he trained. He makes a couple of brief cameos in the book but it's more important that the people still working in the station have learned many things from him. My only regret is that with DC Smith mostly gone from the narrative, the incredible humour he brought to the stories has mostly gone too.
This book begins with the murder of a rough sleeper on the streets of one of the poorer parts of town but it soon becomes evident that there is more to this man's death that meets the eye. The plot is complicated and interesting and the characters are wonderfully drawn. It accomplished what I wanted it to do; it reminded me that mysteries/police procedurals can be entertaining, complex and occasionally very dark but also offer a sense of redemption and optimism. Peter Grainger is amongst the best writers I've ever discovered.
The "Lake" series centres on the police force once lead by DC Smith, who has since retired. The loss of the Smith is somewhat offset by the fact that his presence still occupies the station and the police that he trained. He makes a couple of brief cameos in the book but it's more important that the people still working in the station have learned many things from him. My only regret is that with DC Smith mostly gone from the narrative, the incredible humour he brought to the stories has mostly gone too.
This book begins with the murder of a rough sleeper on the streets of one of the poorer parts of town but it soon becomes evident that there is more to this man's death that meets the eye. The plot is complicated and interesting and the characters are wonderfully drawn. It accomplished what I wanted it to do; it reminded me that mysteries/police procedurals can be entertaining, complex and occasionally very dark but also offer a sense of redemption and optimism. Peter Grainger is amongst the best writers I've ever discovered.
June 25, 2023
Unabridged audio e version read by Gildart Jackson borrowed from the Norfolk Libby App.
I am so grateful that I found this series narrated by the superb Jackson. I wasn't sure to begin with, especially his pronunciation of Peugeot and buoy, but I find his voice so comforting now.
I'm also pleased that DS Chris Waters has his own spin off series and we still get cameo appearances from his former mentor Smith. I also love that Grainger has created a whole world, so it's inevitable when this plot involves a homeless man, that Brother Joseph from "Rags of Time", who we know volunteers at a night shelter, appears in this story. Chris also meets someone in this novel who is mentioned in "The Truth", so chronologically speaking, this one should be read before that installment of the DC Smith series otherwise there is a minor spoiler.
My only criticism with listening to this novel is there is meant to be confusion between two characters and so when listening rather than reading, it's slightly more difficult to follow the exact plot line in the middle. But because of the pacing and the inclusion of so much of Chris' thoughts (which is the main selling point for me) it all becomes clear in the end.
I am so grateful that I found this series narrated by the superb Jackson. I wasn't sure to begin with, especially his pronunciation of Peugeot and buoy, but I find his voice so comforting now.
I'm also pleased that DS Chris Waters has his own spin off series and we still get cameo appearances from his former mentor Smith. I also love that Grainger has created a whole world, so it's inevitable when this plot involves a homeless man, that Brother Joseph from "Rags of Time", who we know volunteers at a night shelter, appears in this story. Chris also meets someone in this novel who is mentioned in "The Truth", so chronologically speaking, this one should be read before that installment of the DC Smith series otherwise there is a minor spoiler.
My only criticism with listening to this novel is there is meant to be confusion between two characters and so when listening rather than reading, it's slightly more difficult to follow the exact plot line in the middle. But because of the pacing and the inclusion of so much of Chris' thoughts (which is the main selling point for me) it all becomes clear in the end.
June 21, 2022
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
I chose the Kings Lake Investigation series because I love British mysteries and I own the first 3 books and the 4th one was just released in May. It was a great choice. I really enjoyed listening to these with a favorite narrator. The overall story arc is the reshaping of the law enforcement personnel in an area after some key players have left and the forming of a new "murder squad." I wished, a little bit, I had read what I now know is the previous series, DC Smith series, which I am really looking forward to reading soon.
The series follows what I think is a new Detective Sergeant, Chris Waters, who was trained by DC Smith. He is learning new tasks, as the crime scene manager, and working with his readjusted team. We the point of view of DS Waters throughout the series. We get both the personal and professional layers of the characters.
On Eden Street is the beginning of the new "murder squad" which divides the office into two teams. Waters was invited and chose to go to the new squad and suggested another person. There are some who weren't invited to the new team which causes some malice. Waters also finds himself interested in a new woman who is a witness to the investigation.
The case is a twisty one and the first one for the new team. DCI Cara Freeman leads the team as a driving force. She has a lot happening personally too. The team now has its full complement with new members. There is an interesting adjustment as new combinations work together and mesh their styles and get to know each other.
The investigation runs up against a bigger one and Freeman works to get justice for the victim here. Waters plays a key role in this, trusts his instincts which luckily are good.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson is a favorite narrator of mine and I enjoyed his performance in this series. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
I chose the Kings Lake Investigation series because I love British mysteries and I own the first 3 books and the 4th one was just released in May. It was a great choice. I really enjoyed listening to these with a favorite narrator. The overall story arc is the reshaping of the law enforcement personnel in an area after some key players have left and the forming of a new "murder squad." I wished, a little bit, I had read what I now know is the previous series, DC Smith series, which I am really looking forward to reading soon.
The series follows what I think is a new Detective Sergeant, Chris Waters, who was trained by DC Smith. He is learning new tasks, as the crime scene manager, and working with his readjusted team. We the point of view of DS Waters throughout the series. We get both the personal and professional layers of the characters.
On Eden Street is the beginning of the new "murder squad" which divides the office into two teams. Waters was invited and chose to go to the new squad and suggested another person. There are some who weren't invited to the new team which causes some malice. Waters also finds himself interested in a new woman who is a witness to the investigation.
The case is a twisty one and the first one for the new team. DCI Cara Freeman leads the team as a driving force. She has a lot happening personally too. The team now has its full complement with new members. There is an interesting adjustment as new combinations work together and mesh their styles and get to know each other.
The investigation runs up against a bigger one and Freeman works to get justice for the victim here. Waters plays a key role in this, trusts his instincts which luckily are good.
Narration:
Gildart Jackson is a favorite narrator of mine and I enjoyed his performance in this series. I was able to listen at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
June 8, 2020
I have been a fan of Peter Grainger's D.C. Smith mysteries for quite awhile. In that series, Smith reached retirement, and the series at Kings Lake continues, but with Chris Waters as the main protagonist detective. The murder victim in this book is a homeless man who claimed to be a veteran, and held an army i.d. card. Soon, it appears that all is not what it seems, and I will stop there so as not to give away the story.
What makes this series so vastly interesting and compelling to me are the characters, the look inside a police department with its inner politicking, its nuances of turf and personalities both working together and clashing, and of course the changes in policing with the advent of computers and massive data bases. In particular, I am fascinated by the moral dilemmas that come out in each of the volumes, which means that a reader can go quite beyond an entertaining whodunnit. Highly recommended!! Can't wait to read everything this author puts out.
What makes this series so vastly interesting and compelling to me are the characters, the look inside a police department with its inner politicking, its nuances of turf and personalities both working together and clashing, and of course the changes in policing with the advent of computers and massive data bases. In particular, I am fascinated by the moral dilemmas that come out in each of the volumes, which means that a reader can go quite beyond an entertaining whodunnit. Highly recommended!! Can't wait to read everything this author puts out.
June 10, 2024
I just finished listening to the audiobook of On Eden Street.... At least I think I listened to the END. Did they solve the murder of the street person?? They found out the identity of the person they thought had been murdered, but that does not solve the original crime. I looked at the computer that was playing the book and seemed to want it to be wrong - the book was not finished.... Until then the book was 4 stars for me. I enjoy the series very much. At 75 I have been a mystery reader for more than 60 years, so it is always a delight for me to find a new "charcter driven" series. I recommend the author highly and am looking forward to the new relationship between D. C. Smith and the blind flower seller - he may have met his match in more ways than one. Kristi & Abby Tabby. OK I went back and listened to the last 5 minutes. The ex-soldier sums up the nature of crime on the streets - it is just another front line in an unwinnable war.......
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2020
An excellent police procedural with heart
I have read all of Grainger 's Kings Lake novels. When the series ended with DC Smith's retirement, I thought, " Oh no, I' m not ready to part with DC, and Chris, and Serena. I want more books with these characters." And the author has obliged with a continuation in "Songbird" and now with " On Eden Street. "
I recommend reading the whole series in publication order so that you see the
main characters as real people with lives beyond their work as police officers.
The crimes and the solutions are presented realistically and track contemporary social ills in England. Beyond all that, the writing is excellent. Well worth reading!
I have read all of Grainger 's Kings Lake novels. When the series ended with DC Smith's retirement, I thought, " Oh no, I' m not ready to part with DC, and Chris, and Serena. I want more books with these characters." And the author has obliged with a continuation in "Songbird" and now with " On Eden Street. "
I recommend reading the whole series in publication order so that you see the
main characters as real people with lives beyond their work as police officers.
The crimes and the solutions are presented realistically and track contemporary social ills in England. Beyond all that, the writing is excellent. Well worth reading!
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