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Detective Sergeant Adam Tyler #3
Cold Reckoning
For sixteen years, DS Adam Tyler has been searching for answers to his father, Richard’s, death. Convinced it wasn’t suicide, he has been investigating the case in secret.
When a body is found in a frozen lake, linked to a cold case from 2002, it doesn’t seem to have anything to do with the death of his father – except Tyler knows Richard was investigating the same case shortly before he died. And Tyler doesn’t believe in coincidences.
As he throws himself into finding out what really happened that day, Tyler uncovers a string of botched investigations, mysterious disappearances and, ultimately, deep-seated police corruption. There are dangerous people who don’t want Tyler asking questions – and the truth always comes at a price.
This time, it could cost him everything.
When a body is found in a frozen lake, linked to a cold case from 2002, it doesn’t seem to have anything to do with the death of his father – except Tyler knows Richard was investigating the same case shortly before he died. And Tyler doesn’t believe in coincidences.
As he throws himself into finding out what really happened that day, Tyler uncovers a string of botched investigations, mysterious disappearances and, ultimately, deep-seated police corruption. There are dangerous people who don’t want Tyler asking questions – and the truth always comes at a price.
This time, it could cost him everything.
464 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
22 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
About the author
Russ Thomas
6 books206 followersRuss Thomas was born in Essex, raised in Berkshire and now lives in Sheffield. He grew up in the 80s reading anything he could get his hands on at the library, writing stories, watching large amounts of television, playing videogames, and largely avoiding the great outdoors. He spent five years trying to master playing the electronic organ and another five trying to learn Spanish. It didn't take him too long to realise that he'd be better off sticking to the writing.
After a few “proper” jobs (among them: pot-washer, optician's receptionist, supermarket warehouse operative, call-centre telephonist and storage salesman) he discovered the joys of book-selling, where he could talk to people about books all day.
Now a full-time writer, he also teaches creative writing classes and mentors new authors. Firewatching is his first novel.
After a few “proper” jobs (among them: pot-washer, optician's receptionist, supermarket warehouse operative, call-centre telephonist and storage salesman) he discovered the joys of book-selling, where he could talk to people about books all day.
Now a full-time writer, he also teaches creative writing classes and mentors new authors. Firewatching is his first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 4, 2022
This is the jam packed third addition to Russ Thomas's Sheffield based crime series featuring the gay police detective DS Adam Tyler of the Cold Case Unit, working with his colleague DC Mina Rabbini who takes a very dim view of being protected from danger by being left out of cases, Tyler and DI Jim Doggett have been looking into the cold case 'suicide' of Richard Tyler, Adam is convinced his police officer father was murdered. After the tragic death of police officer Guy Daley in the previous book, Tyler is feeling the heavy burden of guilt and he is deeply worried by the ominous disappearance of his godmother and mentor DCI Diane Jordan. Under the new ACC Laura Franklin, the police find themselves at a strange crime scene at a boathouse by the reservoir, with a frozen dead body from some years ago in the water and evidence of a more recent fatal shooting, but the victim is missing.
Young schoolgirl Edith Darke has learned to fade into the background, she is bullied at school and has the burden of looking after her mother Melanie with her deteriorating health. She is curious about who her father is, but her mother has not been inclined to give her any information about him. When she is out early morning near the reservoir, she hears gunshots, and when she sees a threatening and menacing man, she runs for her life. As the police start looking into a number of botched police cases from the past, including the 2002 death of a security guard at a steel factory robbery, old school villain, Joey McKenna once again gets in touch with Adam, Superintendent Roger Stevens goes missing, and Adam's long absent brother, Jude, come back into his life.
This is a stellar addition in Thomas's series, it is well plotted, with the intricate and complex threads skillfully connected together in the narrative. There is oodles of suspense and tension culminating in a thrilling finale in this riveting and engaging crime story with its wonderful cast of characters, it has me looking forward with great anticipation to the next in the series. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Young schoolgirl Edith Darke has learned to fade into the background, she is bullied at school and has the burden of looking after her mother Melanie with her deteriorating health. She is curious about who her father is, but her mother has not been inclined to give her any information about him. When she is out early morning near the reservoir, she hears gunshots, and when she sees a threatening and menacing man, she runs for her life. As the police start looking into a number of botched police cases from the past, including the 2002 death of a security guard at a steel factory robbery, old school villain, Joey McKenna once again gets in touch with Adam, Superintendent Roger Stevens goes missing, and Adam's long absent brother, Jude, come back into his life.
This is a stellar addition in Thomas's series, it is well plotted, with the intricate and complex threads skillfully connected together in the narrative. There is oodles of suspense and tension culminating in a thrilling finale in this riveting and engaging crime story with its wonderful cast of characters, it has me looking forward with great anticipation to the next in the series. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
November 11, 2022
Briefly - Good story - less keen on the writing style. 3.5/5
In full
There is a nice opening to Cold Reckoning. Edith is out for some early morning exercise that takes her around a reservoir. At one point she sees a man. One look at his eyes tells her she should run and she does - he runs after her. So starts Cold Reckoning and it had me interested. It was edgy and tense.
Very shortly after that a body is found at the reservoir which appears to relate to a significantly earlier case. However that might not be the only mystery there. The book follows the developments of the case. As it is a "cold case" issue DS Tyler is involved with DC Rabbani. DI Jim Doggett is also involved in the case. In practice Tyler and Doggett have worked together on an investigation under the radar for some time. Has the time come to be a little more public about what they are looking at? Family issues are involved as one of the cases they are looking into is the suicide of Tyler's father - also a police officer - some years ago. Throw in the fact that there is a DCI missing and there is plenty of "story" available here.
The setting here was good and the pace and tension well worked. Coming to a series part way through can often be a challenge and I certainly would have liked to have read the earlier books. I'll probably do that as time goes by. The characters generally were good. I liked Tyler and I found Mina Rabbani very good too. I really liked Edith and her aspect of the story. Maybe some of the others lacked some depth but none were actually "bad". I did find the quite large cast of characters a little confusing initially but that might have been me or simply the fact that this was the 3rd book in the series.
There is no question that I found this more compelling as time went by. From the start there are some "transcripts of recordings" between a caller identified as ICER and other callers. These were intriguing though possibly not very convincing to me. Indeed my feelings about this book are rather divided. The story overall and some aspects of it particularly were good. Some parts I found rather stereotypical though. A real bugbear for me was the fact that all the story was in the present tense and written in the 3rd party. I've read other book like that but this one didn't quite carry it off for me. My feeling is that this is above a 3 star book but I'm not sure how far above that. In the end the story did get to me so I'm inclined to round this up.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
In full
There is a nice opening to Cold Reckoning. Edith is out for some early morning exercise that takes her around a reservoir. At one point she sees a man. One look at his eyes tells her she should run and she does - he runs after her. So starts Cold Reckoning and it had me interested. It was edgy and tense.
Very shortly after that a body is found at the reservoir which appears to relate to a significantly earlier case. However that might not be the only mystery there. The book follows the developments of the case. As it is a "cold case" issue DS Tyler is involved with DC Rabbani. DI Jim Doggett is also involved in the case. In practice Tyler and Doggett have worked together on an investigation under the radar for some time. Has the time come to be a little more public about what they are looking at? Family issues are involved as one of the cases they are looking into is the suicide of Tyler's father - also a police officer - some years ago. Throw in the fact that there is a DCI missing and there is plenty of "story" available here.
The setting here was good and the pace and tension well worked. Coming to a series part way through can often be a challenge and I certainly would have liked to have read the earlier books. I'll probably do that as time goes by. The characters generally were good. I liked Tyler and I found Mina Rabbani very good too. I really liked Edith and her aspect of the story. Maybe some of the others lacked some depth but none were actually "bad". I did find the quite large cast of characters a little confusing initially but that might have been me or simply the fact that this was the 3rd book in the series.
There is no question that I found this more compelling as time went by. From the start there are some "transcripts of recordings" between a caller identified as ICER and other callers. These were intriguing though possibly not very convincing to me. Indeed my feelings about this book are rather divided. The story overall and some aspects of it particularly were good. Some parts I found rather stereotypical though. A real bugbear for me was the fact that all the story was in the present tense and written in the 3rd party. I've read other book like that but this one didn't quite carry it off for me. My feeling is that this is above a 3 star book but I'm not sure how far above that. In the end the story did get to me so I'm inclined to round this up.
Note - I received an advance digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
June 8, 2025
DS Adam Tyler books are getting better with each installment in the series. Russ Thomas' writing is tight, the story is paced really well and we also get good character development. It's great to see how this story follows on from the previous book and it is great to finally get some answers to questions that haunted Tyler for years.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the next book featuring DS Tyler.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the next book featuring DS Tyler.
May 9, 2022
On my blog.
Rep: gay mc, British Pakistani Muslim mc
CWs: violence
Galley provided by publisher
Cold Reckoning is Russ Thomas’s best entry in the DS Adam Tyler series yet. It had me on the edge of my seat for the entire 464 pages, and the ending left me wanting so much more.
The book picks up pretty much immediately after the conclusion to Nighthawking and, since that was left on a rather large cliffhanger, I’m going to do my best to avoid spoilers here. Jordan is dead or missing, and Tyler is feverishly trying to find her, along with Doggett, as they both work to uncover a conspiracy within the force and beyond. All without anyone finding out. And then a cold case comes to light that might have links with their present investigation.
What I love most about reading a debut series is that you can watch a writer improve their craft in real time, and that’s what feels like has been happening across this one. Of course, I loved Firewatching and Nighthawking, but Cold Reckoning is, by far and away, the best of the books so far. The writing is more assured and the plotting is tighter. The book, really, is a bit more of a thriller than the previous two, but there’s still plenty of mystery to keep you intrigued.
And entirely intrigued I was. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing. And it’s one that I was too engrossed in to even really try. Normally, I like to see if I can guess who was behind everything, but in this one, I was so into the book that I couldn’t take the time to think about it. (And, also, it’s one of those ones where the who is partially obvious, it’s the why that matters more.)
Genuinely, I don’t think I can understate just how much I like this series. It’s probably one of my favourite mystery series going around right now, and one that would definitely be a go-to rec for mysteries. I can only hope that there’ll be a book four because I so desperately need it.
So, really, if you consider yourself a fan of mysteries, then I would highly recommend not only this book but the entire series. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it.
Rep: gay mc, British Pakistani Muslim mc
CWs: violence
Galley provided by publisher
Cold Reckoning is Russ Thomas’s best entry in the DS Adam Tyler series yet. It had me on the edge of my seat for the entire 464 pages, and the ending left me wanting so much more.
The book picks up pretty much immediately after the conclusion to Nighthawking and, since that was left on a rather large cliffhanger, I’m going to do my best to avoid spoilers here. Jordan is dead or missing, and Tyler is feverishly trying to find her, along with Doggett, as they both work to uncover a conspiracy within the force and beyond. All without anyone finding out. And then a cold case comes to light that might have links with their present investigation.
What I love most about reading a debut series is that you can watch a writer improve their craft in real time, and that’s what feels like has been happening across this one. Of course, I loved Firewatching and Nighthawking, but Cold Reckoning is, by far and away, the best of the books so far. The writing is more assured and the plotting is tighter. The book, really, is a bit more of a thriller than the previous two, but there’s still plenty of mystery to keep you intrigued.
And entirely intrigued I was. It’s one of those books that keeps you guessing. And it’s one that I was too engrossed in to even really try. Normally, I like to see if I can guess who was behind everything, but in this one, I was so into the book that I couldn’t take the time to think about it. (And, also, it’s one of those ones where the who is partially obvious, it’s the why that matters more.)
Genuinely, I don’t think I can understate just how much I like this series. It’s probably one of my favourite mystery series going around right now, and one that would definitely be a go-to rec for mysteries. I can only hope that there’ll be a book four because I so desperately need it.
So, really, if you consider yourself a fan of mysteries, then I would highly recommend not only this book but the entire series. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it.
June 7, 2022
⭐️ 4.5 ⭐️
This is the third book in the DS Adam Tyler crime thriller series. I’ve read Nighthawking (the second) which is also excellent; I still have Firewatching (the first) to read.
Cold Reckoning can be read as a standalone but I’d highly recommend reading the others first to properly get to grips with the backstory. The cliffhanger ending in Nighthawking is not to be missed and sets the scene for the start of Cold Reckoning.
I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the series, I’d say it was Russ Thomas’s best yet. Being with Tyler, Rabbani and Doggett again was like visiting old friends. The characters are so relatable — I love watching their relationships with each other develop, the witty (realistic) banter they share and the camaraderie between the team.
The book is deftly plotted and nicely paced with plenty of twists and turns to throw you off course and an interesting storyline to keep you fully immersed and quickly turning the pages.
Overall, an excellent, gripping crime thriller/police procedural with another brilliant cliffhanger ending — I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Many thanks to the publisher for my proof copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
This is the third book in the DS Adam Tyler crime thriller series. I’ve read Nighthawking (the second) which is also excellent; I still have Firewatching (the first) to read.
Cold Reckoning can be read as a standalone but I’d highly recommend reading the others first to properly get to grips with the backstory. The cliffhanger ending in Nighthawking is not to be missed and sets the scene for the start of Cold Reckoning.
I thoroughly enjoyed this addition to the series, I’d say it was Russ Thomas’s best yet. Being with Tyler, Rabbani and Doggett again was like visiting old friends. The characters are so relatable — I love watching their relationships with each other develop, the witty (realistic) banter they share and the camaraderie between the team.
The book is deftly plotted and nicely paced with plenty of twists and turns to throw you off course and an interesting storyline to keep you fully immersed and quickly turning the pages.
Overall, an excellent, gripping crime thriller/police procedural with another brilliant cliffhanger ending — I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Many thanks to the publisher for my proof copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
February 27, 2022
This is the third book in the Adam Tyler series, and I think they are getting better.
Along with new cases, there's still stuff going on from the previous books that ties it all nicely together.
The whole book reads at s good pace, but the pace and tension really notches up towards the end.
Then finishes with a great ending.
Best yet I'd say.
Along with new cases, there's still stuff going on from the previous books that ties it all nicely together.
The whole book reads at s good pace, but the pace and tension really notches up towards the end.
Then finishes with a great ending.
Best yet I'd say.
March 7, 2025
I ordered a gripping mystery thriller with interesting, mostly likeable characters, and Russ Thomas delivered, as usual. Adam Tyler and his entourage are at it again, investigating a murder after which the body was frozen. A truly mysterious case, connected with a cold case (pun intended) from many years ago.
The case also seems to be linked to the death of our protagonist's father, and there's also Adam Tyler's brother who somehow plays a role.
So there is a lot going on, lots of names to keep track of and past events to mentally put in order. I did find that a bit challenging (and lost the thread a few times along the way), but everything comes together nicely in the end.
Adam Tyler is gay - it's only a small part of the plot of this book, and I wish this aspect played a bigger role.
I can't wait to read the forth novel of the series - whatever you do, I recommend to follow the order in which they were published. You won't regret it.
The case also seems to be linked to the death of our protagonist's father, and there's also Adam Tyler's brother who somehow plays a role.
So there is a lot going on, lots of names to keep track of and past events to mentally put in order. I did find that a bit challenging (and lost the thread a few times along the way), but everything comes together nicely in the end.
Adam Tyler is gay - it's only a small part of the plot of this book, and I wish this aspect played a bigger role.
I can't wait to read the forth novel of the series - whatever you do, I recommend to follow the order in which they were published. You won't regret it.
June 6, 2022
3.5 stars. Look, I'm definitely going to read the next one because three books in I'm invested in the characters but the truth is, I loved the first book in the series and have liked each subsequent one a little less. This book mainly focuses on the culmination of the larger case introduced in book one and it's... a bit silly? The author was going for insidious and chilling but it's all sort of over the top and convoluted. In both previous books, I enjoyed the 'case of the week' half of the plot more than the book-spanning one and since this one mostly followed the latter, I enjoyed it the least.
October 7, 2024
The Start of this book was epic, pure adrenaline and dread!!
I found myself preferring Tyler in this book and felt for him as he finally found out what had happened with his father.
There were other plots along side Tyler’s own investigation into the past, at times I was concerned that Diane’s own team had forgotten her?’ The interactions between Tyler and Doggett hilarious and loved when Rabinni had to come between them
Roll on book 4!
I found myself preferring Tyler in this book and felt for him as he finally found out what had happened with his father.
There were other plots along side Tyler’s own investigation into the past, at times I was concerned that Diane’s own team had forgotten her?’ The interactions between Tyler and Doggett hilarious and loved when Rabinni had to come between them
Roll on book 4!
April 10, 2023
Holy wow! Russ Thomas has spun a story of murder, intrigue, double crossing and family. I have to admit I've developed quite a soft spot for DS Adam Tyler. He's flawed and tries to hide it but knows he's doing a terrible job. Like with Thomas' previous book, Nighthawking (also highly recommended), Cold Reckoning leaves us on a cliff hanger and honestly, I'm okay with that. I just hope he's already writing whatever happens next.
Thanks to @simonandschuster
UK and @netgalley for the free e-ARC in return for an unbiased review.
Thanks to @simonandschuster
UK and @netgalley for the free e-ARC in return for an unbiased review.
May 10, 2023
Another great Detective Sergeant Adam Tyler story and what an ending! Can't wait for the next.
October 25, 2022
Definitely the best of the three, though I've enjoyed them all. It's nice that there is continuity from the first novel through the second and into this. Not just a nod to previous cases but a distinct and engaging narrative throughout. I worried that, as the story neared its end, there was no room for a further novel and that we might not see any more of the detective. The loose ends were being efficiently tied up. But there was no need to fear. There is definitely scope for Tyler's story to continue.
I was surprised that I got through nearly five hundred pages in such short time. That's down to the quality of writing and clever pace. Looking forward to the next already.
I was surprised that I got through nearly five hundred pages in such short time. That's down to the quality of writing and clever pace. Looking forward to the next already.
October 26, 2023
Looking forward to the next installment
November 1, 2022
Russ Thomas is hands down one of my favourite authors! I loved his debut Firewatching, it was one of the books that got me back into reading, I plan on re reading it at some point as well.
Cold Reckoning is the third instalment of this series, and it was incredible! I’ve loved all three of the books in this series, but this one was a whole different level. I loved the way the story wove together, with the case unfolding and everything slowly connecting and linking together. The tension throughout was great, leaving me wanting to know what was going to happen next, making it almost impossible for me to put this book down. I finished this book in a day.
Seeing these characters grow and change since book one has been really interesting, watching how they interact now compared to book 1 and how they’ve changed since the start.
I had some theories throughout but not many of them came to light, it personally kept me guessing the whole way through, even with the twist at the end, I wasn’t fully expecting it! I had suspicions but I didn’t expect that! An absolutely brilliant read, and I would recommend this series to anyone! I will be rereading it again at some point hopefully.
Cold Reckoning is the third instalment of this series, and it was incredible! I’ve loved all three of the books in this series, but this one was a whole different level. I loved the way the story wove together, with the case unfolding and everything slowly connecting and linking together. The tension throughout was great, leaving me wanting to know what was going to happen next, making it almost impossible for me to put this book down. I finished this book in a day.
Seeing these characters grow and change since book one has been really interesting, watching how they interact now compared to book 1 and how they’ve changed since the start.
I had some theories throughout but not many of them came to light, it personally kept me guessing the whole way through, even with the twist at the end, I wasn’t fully expecting it! I had suspicions but I didn’t expect that! An absolutely brilliant read, and I would recommend this series to anyone! I will be rereading it again at some point hopefully.
October 16, 2022
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
March 21, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Simon and Schuster UK for an advance copy of Cold Reckoning, the third novel to feature DS Adam Tyler of the Sheffield police.
Tyler, as he prefers to be known, has been secretly investigating the death of his father 16 years ago. The official verdict is suicide, he believes it was murder. Then he is asked to investigate a cold case from 2002 which he isn’t initially enthusiastic about until he discovers links to the last case his father investigated. With new impetus he digs deep and discovers a morass.
I enjoyed Cold Reckoning, which is an action packed read with more than a few twists, but first I would offer a word of caution. I joined the series at book 2 and got lost in many of the reference to prior events, but this was easier for me as I was more up to speed, therefore I would strongly recommend starting at the beginning and reading the novels in order because it’s all about the murkiness of Richard Tyler’s death as an ongoing thread.
This is a very busy novel so the reader needs their wits about them and their concentration dialled up. There are so many incidents that the novel doesn’t lack excitement, but it’s keeping up with the web of relationships and understanding who did what and why that requires close attention. I think I got it all, but maybe not as it doesn’t feel crystal clear in my mind. The bottom line is police corruption and all the dodgy dealings that involves. The novel answers some of the questions and identifies some of the players, but not all. This could leave room for more novels on the same subject or the author could leave it there as a reflection of the reality that not every criminal gets caught.
I don’t think the characterisation is particularly strong, but it doesn’t need to be as the plot is so strong. There’s Tyler who has one focus, catching his father’s killer and no obvious life outside of that. He’s smart but his people skills are lacking with anyone but the victims of crime. That doesn’t make sense although it is explained as him being one and can thus empathise. His partner is Mina and she’s the stereotypical woman who gets stroppy when excluded from discussions.
Cold Reckoning is good but tough read that I can recommend.
Tyler, as he prefers to be known, has been secretly investigating the death of his father 16 years ago. The official verdict is suicide, he believes it was murder. Then he is asked to investigate a cold case from 2002 which he isn’t initially enthusiastic about until he discovers links to the last case his father investigated. With new impetus he digs deep and discovers a morass.
I enjoyed Cold Reckoning, which is an action packed read with more than a few twists, but first I would offer a word of caution. I joined the series at book 2 and got lost in many of the reference to prior events, but this was easier for me as I was more up to speed, therefore I would strongly recommend starting at the beginning and reading the novels in order because it’s all about the murkiness of Richard Tyler’s death as an ongoing thread.
This is a very busy novel so the reader needs their wits about them and their concentration dialled up. There are so many incidents that the novel doesn’t lack excitement, but it’s keeping up with the web of relationships and understanding who did what and why that requires close attention. I think I got it all, but maybe not as it doesn’t feel crystal clear in my mind. The bottom line is police corruption and all the dodgy dealings that involves. The novel answers some of the questions and identifies some of the players, but not all. This could leave room for more novels on the same subject or the author could leave it there as a reflection of the reality that not every criminal gets caught.
I don’t think the characterisation is particularly strong, but it doesn’t need to be as the plot is so strong. There’s Tyler who has one focus, catching his father’s killer and no obvious life outside of that. He’s smart but his people skills are lacking with anyone but the victims of crime. That doesn’t make sense although it is explained as him being one and can thus empathise. His partner is Mina and she’s the stereotypical woman who gets stroppy when excluded from discussions.
Cold Reckoning is good but tough read that I can recommend.
October 7, 2024
A gunshot rings out at Damflask Reservoir on a cold winter morning. It leads to the discovery of a body that has a connection to the case Tyler’s father, Richard, was investigating before his death. Could this finally lead Tyler to the answers about his father’s death he’s been searching for all these years? As he digs deeper he must face those who will do anything to stop the truth from being revealed. But with all the clues seeming to say he’s on the right path, Tyler is determined nothing will stop him from finally learning what happened that day.
Gripping, tense and twisty, Russ Thomas has delivered another fantastic instalment in the DS Adam Tyler Series. Events pick up right after the cliffhanger at the end of book two, so I’d highly recommend you pick that one up first. This book felt more personal than ever with the search for Tyler’s godmother and mentor, DCI Diane Jordan, and a case that seems to be connected to Tyler’s father’s death. Since the start of this series there’s been a sense that his father’s death has overshadowed every facet of Tyler’s life so I was really rooting for him to find answers so he can finally move forward. But things obviously won’t be straight forward. Tyler is left not knowing who he can trust and there are some intense scenes as he tries to get to the truth. Meanwhile, the deeper he gets into the investigation, the more danger there is as those who know the truth try to stop it from coming to light.
Fast-paced and intricately woven, the high-octane tension never drops for a moment, Thomas keeping you on the edge of your seat as he intricately weaves the threads together to a heart-pounding finale. A must for all thriller fans.
Gripping, tense and twisty, Russ Thomas has delivered another fantastic instalment in the DS Adam Tyler Series. Events pick up right after the cliffhanger at the end of book two, so I’d highly recommend you pick that one up first. This book felt more personal than ever with the search for Tyler’s godmother and mentor, DCI Diane Jordan, and a case that seems to be connected to Tyler’s father’s death. Since the start of this series there’s been a sense that his father’s death has overshadowed every facet of Tyler’s life so I was really rooting for him to find answers so he can finally move forward. But things obviously won’t be straight forward. Tyler is left not knowing who he can trust and there are some intense scenes as he tries to get to the truth. Meanwhile, the deeper he gets into the investigation, the more danger there is as those who know the truth try to stop it from coming to light.
Fast-paced and intricately woven, the high-octane tension never drops for a moment, Thomas keeping you on the edge of your seat as he intricately weaves the threads together to a heart-pounding finale. A must for all thriller fans.
May 11, 2022
After the shock at the end of Nighthawking (so shocking that I made notes so I didn't forget what happened) I was so excited to pick up Cold Reckoning, book three in the DS Adam Tyler series. I have to say that this is probably my favourite one so far, and I *really* loved the first two. Like most books that form part of a series, you can read this one as a standalone but I would heartily recommend picking up Firewatching and Nighthawking because there's a very important back story and threads that run throughout all three.
Cold Reckoning sees Tyler investigating a frozen body found in the local reservoir and possible links to a cold case, alongside DC Mina Rabbani and DCI Jim Doggett. Russ Thomas's characterisations are very strong and I was so keen to meet these three again. Tyler is also looking into his father's death sixteen years ago which appeared to be suicide but which Tyler has his doubts about.
There are very distinct Line of Duty vibes to this book and I just couldn't put it down. I was thoroughly engrossed in the unfolding action and the fast-paced story, which takes place over the course of one week. Tyler's a bit of a maverick, He's a good cop but he knows that not all police are the same. He, and I, didn't know who to trust and it makes for a nailbitingly thrilling experience.
I'm hoping there's more ahead for Tyler. Certainly there is a possible liaison to be explored further and the ending left me wanting to know what happened next. Thomas is a brilliant writer, bringing to life the Sheffield sights that are so familiar to me with an amazing and gripping plot and fantastically complex characters. Cold Reckoning had me well and truly hooked.
Cold Reckoning sees Tyler investigating a frozen body found in the local reservoir and possible links to a cold case, alongside DC Mina Rabbani and DCI Jim Doggett. Russ Thomas's characterisations are very strong and I was so keen to meet these three again. Tyler is also looking into his father's death sixteen years ago which appeared to be suicide but which Tyler has his doubts about.
There are very distinct Line of Duty vibes to this book and I just couldn't put it down. I was thoroughly engrossed in the unfolding action and the fast-paced story, which takes place over the course of one week. Tyler's a bit of a maverick, He's a good cop but he knows that not all police are the same. He, and I, didn't know who to trust and it makes for a nailbitingly thrilling experience.
I'm hoping there's more ahead for Tyler. Certainly there is a possible liaison to be explored further and the ending left me wanting to know what happened next. Thomas is a brilliant writer, bringing to life the Sheffield sights that are so familiar to me with an amazing and gripping plot and fantastically complex characters. Cold Reckoning had me well and truly hooked.
February 15, 2023
The DS Adam Tyler series by Russ Thomas has become one of my favourites. Cold Reckoning is the latest book, and it is perhaps the most personal book yet for Adam, as he grapples with the mystery of his father’s death decades earlier, and the mysterious disappearance of his boss, DCI Diane Jordan. I definitely think this is my favourite book in this series to date.
There are a lot of strands in this novel, but Russ Thomas did a brilliant job of keeping everything flowing smoothly, and I never felt, as I was reading, that I was in anyway feeling lost with the story. The mysteries of what happened to Adam’s father and his boss really pulled me into the book. I could feel the sense of urgency there was for his need to get answers. I was kept intrigued right the way through. I was urging the police to take Diane’s disappearance more seriously, even though she is a police officer, it felt as though Adam was the only one pushing for an investigation.
The pacing never drops. There are some very mysterious chapters where there is an exchange between two unknown individuals, and I wanted to know how this was going to be connected to the rest of the plot. I really liked the way how Russ Thomas brought this all seamlessly together as Adam finds out the truth. There are some brilliant twists as the novel nears its conclusion, and I could not put it down, as we reached this point. There were some tense scenes between Adam and some of the characters in this book, and I’m not going to say who, because I don’t want to spoil it, but it made me unsure of whom Adam could really trust. This is what makes the novel so tense, especially as we get towards the ending. This book will have you looking at every character with suspicion.
Russ Thomas is definitely a writer who knows how to leave his readers wanting more. I’m desperate to find out what happens next in Adam’s journey following the conclusions of this book. I highly recommend this series.
There are a lot of strands in this novel, but Russ Thomas did a brilliant job of keeping everything flowing smoothly, and I never felt, as I was reading, that I was in anyway feeling lost with the story. The mysteries of what happened to Adam’s father and his boss really pulled me into the book. I could feel the sense of urgency there was for his need to get answers. I was kept intrigued right the way through. I was urging the police to take Diane’s disappearance more seriously, even though she is a police officer, it felt as though Adam was the only one pushing for an investigation.
The pacing never drops. There are some very mysterious chapters where there is an exchange between two unknown individuals, and I wanted to know how this was going to be connected to the rest of the plot. I really liked the way how Russ Thomas brought this all seamlessly together as Adam finds out the truth. There are some brilliant twists as the novel nears its conclusion, and I could not put it down, as we reached this point. There were some tense scenes between Adam and some of the characters in this book, and I’m not going to say who, because I don’t want to spoil it, but it made me unsure of whom Adam could really trust. This is what makes the novel so tense, especially as we get towards the ending. This book will have you looking at every character with suspicion.
Russ Thomas is definitely a writer who knows how to leave his readers wanting more. I’m desperate to find out what happens next in Adam’s journey following the conclusions of this book. I highly recommend this series.
November 30, 2024
A body is found frozen after disappearing over a decade ago. Tyler is convinced there is a link to his father's apparent suicide but his usual supportive superior officer (and also his godmother) has vanished along with a corrupt cop on the run...
Cold Reckoning is the third book in the DS Adam Tyler series. Some dimensions of the plot directly lead on from the last book Nighthawking so I would advise reading the series in order.
Tyler generally handles cold cases and this one is frozen! The victim is linked to a murder 16 years ago that Tyler's father was investigating. The body has been hidden for all that time but why and where? Tyler hopes this is a chance for his father's death to be reviewed and finally proved not to be a suicide. He has made an unlikely alliance with his colleague Doggett but both are trying to keep new recruit Mina Rabbani away from the case for her own safety. One senior officer has gone on the run rather than face corruption charges and another has vanished completely (massive cliffhanger from previous book!)
This was my favourite book of the series so far. I felt much more in tune with Tyler and his focus on finding the truth about his dad merged seamlessly with the new case. He lets his emotional side come to the fore and this allows him to build relationships with his colleagues. The style of writing is clear and I liked the segments about Edith which added mystery as to how they related to the main plot threads.
Cold Reckoning is a tense and engaging crime thriller and police procedural.
Cold Reckoning is the third book in the DS Adam Tyler series. Some dimensions of the plot directly lead on from the last book Nighthawking so I would advise reading the series in order.
Tyler generally handles cold cases and this one is frozen! The victim is linked to a murder 16 years ago that Tyler's father was investigating. The body has been hidden for all that time but why and where? Tyler hopes this is a chance for his father's death to be reviewed and finally proved not to be a suicide. He has made an unlikely alliance with his colleague Doggett but both are trying to keep new recruit Mina Rabbani away from the case for her own safety. One senior officer has gone on the run rather than face corruption charges and another has vanished completely (massive cliffhanger from previous book!)
This was my favourite book of the series so far. I felt much more in tune with Tyler and his focus on finding the truth about his dad merged seamlessly with the new case. He lets his emotional side come to the fore and this allows him to build relationships with his colleagues. The style of writing is clear and I liked the segments about Edith which added mystery as to how they related to the main plot threads.
Cold Reckoning is a tense and engaging crime thriller and police procedural.
November 7, 2025
Another solid and enjoyable read in the DS Adam Tyler series. Whereas the first 2 installments (Firewatching and Nighthawking) read like traditional crime novels, with an intriguing scenario, a well-crafted investigation and a satisfying conclusion, Cold Reckoning opts to delve head first into the corruption and conspiracy that's hinted at in the author's preceding two books. In fact, the crime at the centre of this story seems a little too contrived and slighty over-engineered to suit this purpose.
Nevertheless, the familiar cast of characters are back and they soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery that forces them to question the motives of their superiors and scratch at the dark underbelly of the steel city. And once again, Russ Thomas's accessible and engaging writing style has the reader racing through chapters at breakneck speed, devouring large portions of the book in one sitting.
As invested as I am in the conspiracy at the heart of this crime series, I couldn't help but feel a little underwhelmed by the ending. After much tension and suspense, things seemed to come to the boil rather quickly and the ending felt a little undercooked. It left me with a similar feeling to the one I get when the words, "To be continued" or, "End of part 1" are displayed just before the credits roll in a major Hollywood movie. I have some answers, but there are still many more questions eating away at me!
Nevertheless, the familiar cast of characters are back and they soon find themselves embroiled in a mystery that forces them to question the motives of their superiors and scratch at the dark underbelly of the steel city. And once again, Russ Thomas's accessible and engaging writing style has the reader racing through chapters at breakneck speed, devouring large portions of the book in one sitting.
As invested as I am in the conspiracy at the heart of this crime series, I couldn't help but feel a little underwhelmed by the ending. After much tension and suspense, things seemed to come to the boil rather quickly and the ending felt a little undercooked. It left me with a similar feeling to the one I get when the words, "To be continued" or, "End of part 1" are displayed just before the credits roll in a major Hollywood movie. I have some answers, but there are still many more questions eating away at me!
May 20, 2022
The third in the series featuring Adam Tyler and for me the best yet. Russ Thomas knows how to open a book guaranteed to intrigue the reader and draw them in.
This is a particularly interesting story line as it features a body found but dating back to 2002, for Tyler this is a case a little too close to home and one which you sense may haunt his past. Tyler has secretly been investigating his Fathers suicide some sixteen years previous now the truth may come to the fore but at what cost.
As Police thrillers go this is right up there with the best, the book is wonderfully plotted and expertly drawn out on the pages, taking you on unexpected turns in a game of who can you trust, this is where the author cleverly interweaves the story line between the characters, at the same time heightening and building the suspense and drama, the chapters are constructed in a way that you get a feel for time
The author clearly has a knack for writing strong characters, characters which you can relate to and believe in, this is a book where the female characters come into their own and play a vital role, their is a real depth and feel, they are not there just for the sake of it, but to enhance the story, you can sense a real bond and respect with Tyler. Edith in particular is superbly drawn character one who you want to root for from the beginning, but one you know could take a wrong turn, fair to say life hasn’t been kind to her, but it is that strong determination and grit which is one of her enduring qualities
Sometimes it can be a fine line between right and wrong and you have to decide which side of the line you are on, another strong point within the book in that the authors let’s the characters sail close to the wind but leaves the reader not knowing which direction they will take. The book races along in real time with heart stopping moments, moments which will you breathless with anticipation, as you race on towards the end desperate to know the truth, the twists keep on coming and the drama rises. The ending as satisfying as it is dramatic
A classic page turner, the author dangles the carrot so you have to keep on reading you need to know where the story will lead you.
This is a terrific series and the author is firmly cementing his place as one of todays finest crime writers, and whilst this can be read as a standalone, do your self a favour and read the other two
An immersive read and one which you fall into
This is a particularly interesting story line as it features a body found but dating back to 2002, for Tyler this is a case a little too close to home and one which you sense may haunt his past. Tyler has secretly been investigating his Fathers suicide some sixteen years previous now the truth may come to the fore but at what cost.
As Police thrillers go this is right up there with the best, the book is wonderfully plotted and expertly drawn out on the pages, taking you on unexpected turns in a game of who can you trust, this is where the author cleverly interweaves the story line between the characters, at the same time heightening and building the suspense and drama, the chapters are constructed in a way that you get a feel for time
The author clearly has a knack for writing strong characters, characters which you can relate to and believe in, this is a book where the female characters come into their own and play a vital role, their is a real depth and feel, they are not there just for the sake of it, but to enhance the story, you can sense a real bond and respect with Tyler. Edith in particular is superbly drawn character one who you want to root for from the beginning, but one you know could take a wrong turn, fair to say life hasn’t been kind to her, but it is that strong determination and grit which is one of her enduring qualities
Sometimes it can be a fine line between right and wrong and you have to decide which side of the line you are on, another strong point within the book in that the authors let’s the characters sail close to the wind but leaves the reader not knowing which direction they will take. The book races along in real time with heart stopping moments, moments which will you breathless with anticipation, as you race on towards the end desperate to know the truth, the twists keep on coming and the drama rises. The ending as satisfying as it is dramatic
A classic page turner, the author dangles the carrot so you have to keep on reading you need to know where the story will lead you.
This is a terrific series and the author is firmly cementing his place as one of todays finest crime writers, and whilst this can be read as a standalone, do your self a favour and read the other two
An immersive read and one which you fall into
November 16, 2023
The story in this third outing for DS Adam Tyler of the Cold Case Squad starts where it left off at the end of book 2 and immediately piles on the pressure with the disappearance of Adam's boss and godmother, DCI Diane Jordan. The tension just builds from there on the discovery of a long-frozen body at a local boathouse, and an additional more recent suspicious death.
With these events, the discreet investigation into Adam's father's death is thrown into sharp focus and Adam and his colleague Jim Doggett are on the cusp of a breakthrough.
I really enjoyed the parallel and seemingly unconnected storyline about Edith Darke, a schoolgirl witness to the murder at the boathouse and how the strands were woven together to become one complete storyline.
This was a fantastic finale to this particular storyline over the first three books. The main and supporting characters are now really well-established and I can't wait to see where Adam and the story go from here. Compelling storytelling.
With these events, the discreet investigation into Adam's father's death is thrown into sharp focus and Adam and his colleague Jim Doggett are on the cusp of a breakthrough.
I really enjoyed the parallel and seemingly unconnected storyline about Edith Darke, a schoolgirl witness to the murder at the boathouse and how the strands were woven together to become one complete storyline.
This was a fantastic finale to this particular storyline over the first three books. The main and supporting characters are now really well-established and I can't wait to see where Adam and the story go from here. Compelling storytelling.
January 23, 2023
This book is a rattling good thriller, but you do really need to have read the two previous books about DS Tyler to fully understand what is going on.
I also found the partial telephone transcripts odd as where they have come from is never really explained, and they do not fit with the detailed daily timeline. Also not being told what the acronym ICER for one of the callers stands for until page 283 I found infuriating …. I had searched the internet to try and understand it, and even contacted Russ (the author) to try and find its meaning ….. all he said was ‘You find out in due course’ …. but then when you do learn it’s meaning there is no real reason for the secrecy ….
I also find the set up of potential partners for DS Tyler …. and then no follow through annoying! …. and what about a love interest for Mina?
…. But who should Tyler trust, DI Doggett, ACC Laura Franklin, even his brother Jude? DC Amina Rabbani whose character I love is the only one I would trust with my life ….
I also found the partial telephone transcripts odd as where they have come from is never really explained, and they do not fit with the detailed daily timeline. Also not being told what the acronym ICER for one of the callers stands for until page 283 I found infuriating …. I had searched the internet to try and understand it, and even contacted Russ (the author) to try and find its meaning ….. all he said was ‘You find out in due course’ …. but then when you do learn it’s meaning there is no real reason for the secrecy ….
I also find the set up of potential partners for DS Tyler …. and then no follow through annoying! …. and what about a love interest for Mina?
…. But who should Tyler trust, DI Doggett, ACC Laura Franklin, even his brother Jude? DC Amina Rabbani whose character I love is the only one I would trust with my life ….
October 7, 2024
A body is found frozen by the reservoir, but it's not a new death so the Cold case crew are called in to investigate. DS Tyler, DC Rabani & DI Dogget get to work.
DS Tyler & DI Dogget meanwhile are trying to piece together the events of Tyler's policeman fathers death. Was it really suicide?
Young Edith encounters a man while out at the reservoir, his eyes tell her to run so she does. But he follows. Who is he and what does he want?
While it seems there is a lot going on in this book, and there is, it's very easy to follow. The pace was so fast I flew through this in 2 days. The narrator is fantastic on audible and just with his tone I know which character we were with. This is my favourite so far of this series. I felt like Tyler finally got answers to the mystery of his father in this book. Really enjoyed all the jaw dropping moments that caught me off guard. And that ending? Wow! Cannot wait to jump straight into sleeping dogs!
DS Tyler & DI Dogget meanwhile are trying to piece together the events of Tyler's policeman fathers death. Was it really suicide?
Young Edith encounters a man while out at the reservoir, his eyes tell her to run so she does. But he follows. Who is he and what does he want?
While it seems there is a lot going on in this book, and there is, it's very easy to follow. The pace was so fast I flew through this in 2 days. The narrator is fantastic on audible and just with his tone I know which character we were with. This is my favourite so far of this series. I felt like Tyler finally got answers to the mystery of his father in this book. Really enjoyed all the jaw dropping moments that caught me off guard. And that ending? Wow! Cannot wait to jump straight into sleeping dogs!
March 26, 2025
While the procedural is solid, the repeating of certain dynamics especially towards DC Rabbani become a bit old by book three. And the shift from DC Tyler from openly gay dude to basically asexual with no interest in anyone, while we get told more about the dating exploits of his straight colleagues, feels like desperate pandering towards the straight readers. It's cute and all that Thomas doesn't want being gay Tyler's whole character and but at this point he barely exists as a person anymore. He's just a grumpy case solving machine, that is difficult to keep rooting for. And in a time where we are bombarded with the private life and problems from every straight detective in fiction - and gay crime fiction is gentrified by mostly straight white women, writing gay dudes as a kink for other straight women - it's really disheartening that one of the few series actually written by a gay dude feels so stereotypically straight.
October 7, 2024
Again, I was hooked and intrigued right from the very first chapter! I think this one has definitely been my favourite one of the series so far!
I felt this book wasn’t as busy as the first two and focused on one main case which I really liked and found it much easier to follow. I really liked how DS Tyler and Doggets relationship has bloomed over the series and how they have opened up to include Rabani now too. We also got to meet Tyler’s brother Jude in this book which was very interesting indeed and filled in a few gaps in the story of their father’s “suicide”.
The run up to the end had me sitting on the edge of my seat the very last sentence literally made me gasp!
Loads of unexpected twists and very, very clever attention to detail. I was really impressed with this book and cannot wait for the next book in the series!
I felt this book wasn’t as busy as the first two and focused on one main case which I really liked and found it much easier to follow. I really liked how DS Tyler and Doggets relationship has bloomed over the series and how they have opened up to include Rabani now too. We also got to meet Tyler’s brother Jude in this book which was very interesting indeed and filled in a few gaps in the story of their father’s “suicide”.
The run up to the end had me sitting on the edge of my seat the very last sentence literally made me gasp!
Loads of unexpected twists and very, very clever attention to detail. I was really impressed with this book and cannot wait for the next book in the series!
October 30, 2024
I listened to the audio book of this and it did take me a little while to figure out who was who as there are quite a few characters. I really liked Edith but I couldn’t figure out how she fitted into the story - although I think this was the point as it did come a lot clearer as we progressed.
There seemed to be loads happening in this, with plots, history and current events all twisting together in a scary and full on manner. I feel like it’s one that needs a bit of concentration so I might have followed it a bit better if I was reading it rather than listening.
While reading this you get a constant chill, it’s like there’s an undercurrent throughout the book and you really do start to question everyone, I didn’t have a clue who to trust or what the truth was which made this really good.
There seemed to be loads happening in this, with plots, history and current events all twisting together in a scary and full on manner. I feel like it’s one that needs a bit of concentration so I might have followed it a bit better if I was reading it rather than listening.
While reading this you get a constant chill, it’s like there’s an undercurrent throughout the book and you really do start to question everyone, I didn’t have a clue who to trust or what the truth was which made this really good.
March 30, 2022
This is the third in the Adam Tyler series and welcomes back old favourites Doggett and Rabbani as well as a few new faces.
This series is best read in order as their is a continuos thread throughout the series that is best understood if followed form the beginning.
The body of a man found under frozen water in a boat bar is made even more mysterious by evidence of a much more recent shootingin the same shed but with no body.
As Tyler and his team try to find links between the more recent shooting and the cold case of the recently defrosted body we are taken on a web of intrigue that dives deep into corruption and leaves Tyler unsure who to trust.
This is an intense read with lots of intrigue, red herrings and heart racing moments.
This series is best read in order as their is a continuos thread throughout the series that is best understood if followed form the beginning.
The body of a man found under frozen water in a boat bar is made even more mysterious by evidence of a much more recent shootingin the same shed but with no body.
As Tyler and his team try to find links between the more recent shooting and the cold case of the recently defrosted body we are taken on a web of intrigue that dives deep into corruption and leaves Tyler unsure who to trust.
This is an intense read with lots of intrigue, red herrings and heart racing moments.
May 8, 2022
A very welcome addition to the Adam Tyler books. This is the third in the series, and I feel they should be read in order as this cycles us back to the death of Adam's father which was an important part of the other two books and in doing so takes us through a rollercoaster ride of corruption at the highest levels, and it's affect on people lower down the pecking order.
It's been really interesting going on a journey with debut author Russ Thomas and feeling that he has now found his writing style and his readers have got to know the main characters, and as a result, I think this is the best of the three books. I did find the ending quite sudden and abrupt though, but I'm hoping it's leading on to book four.
Thank you to netgalley and Simon and Schuster for an advance copy of this book
It's been really interesting going on a journey with debut author Russ Thomas and feeling that he has now found his writing style and his readers have got to know the main characters, and as a result, I think this is the best of the three books. I did find the ending quite sudden and abrupt though, but I'm hoping it's leading on to book four.
Thank you to netgalley and Simon and Schuster for an advance copy of this book
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