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DCI Evan Warlow #2
Caution: Death at Work
A dark past casts a deep shadow.
Evan Warlow is back in the saddle as a DCI, though he isn’t yet sure he deserves to be, and there are others who share his doubts.
When a brutal attack on two mountain bikers in the vast solitude of the Brechfa forest leaves one dead and the other badly injured, the hunt is on for the killer. And though the evidence points firmly in one direction, an open and shut case soon becomes murky and unclear.
It’s not the first time bad things have happened in these woods. Things that some have tried desperately to forget. But for the killer, it’s more a matter of unfinished business.
Unless Evan and the team can outwit a vengeful and clever murderer, someone else is going to die.
Evan Warlow is back in the saddle as a DCI, though he isn’t yet sure he deserves to be, and there are others who share his doubts.
When a brutal attack on two mountain bikers in the vast solitude of the Brechfa forest leaves one dead and the other badly injured, the hunt is on for the killer. And though the evidence points firmly in one direction, an open and shut case soon becomes murky and unclear.
It’s not the first time bad things have happened in these woods. Things that some have tried desperately to forget. But for the killer, it’s more a matter of unfinished business.
Unless Evan and the team can outwit a vengeful and clever murderer, someone else is going to die.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2022
3039 people are currently reading
1546 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Dylan
20 books542 followershttps://www.facebook.com/Rhysdylanbooks
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
https://www.instagram.com/rhysdylanbo...
Rhys Dylan lives on the edge of the Black mountains of Wales with his wife and a dog who doesn't like the rain.
Though he has written books for children and adults under different pen names in other genres, the Black Beacons Murder Mystery series sees him return to crime and his love of Celtic noir and dark humour.
He hopes readers will find a brief escape from a very troubled world inside the stories. He does not expect to get rich as an author, but as someone once famously said, money can't buy you love, but it can get you some great chocolate digestives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
June 26, 2023
Excellent series. Highly recommend!
May 27, 2023
This is rapidly becoming my new favourite series. DCI Warlow and his team are confronted by a gruesome murder when a biker on holiday is killed in a frenzied knife attack in the Welsh countryside. A good pace and clues are provided to the diligent reader to solve the mystery. The team is developing nicely in this second instalment in the series and Warlow's sarcastic humour much appreciated. Brechfa Forest is an appropriately gloomy setting and the author weaves local legend into the narrative without burdening the story.
February 10, 2024
Caution Death At Work is book two in the DCI Evan Warlow series by Rhys Dylan. DCI Evan Warlow's first case after coming back to the force after retirement was the death of a young man, Andrew Geary, in the Brechfa Forest. With no witnesses except the murderer and the victim's companion, Rob Hopley, DCI Evan Warlow and his team were at a loss to start this investigation. However, the more they investigate Andrew Geary and Rob Hopley, the closer they come to the truth. The readers of Caution Death At Work will continue to follow the twists and turns in DCI Evan Warlow's investigation to discover what happens.
I enjoy the way Rhys Dylan throws Welsh words in throughout his stories. I also like that he highlights the issues that can happen to law enforcement officers during their working lives. I love Rhys Dylan's portrayal of his characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Caution Death At Work is well-written and researched by Rhys Dylan. I like Rhys Dylan's description of the settings of Caution Death At Work, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Caution Death At Work will understand the meaning of a plotter regarding law enforcement investigations. Also, the readers will learn the damage that trauma can do to children that can affect their adult lives.
I recommend this book.
I enjoy the way Rhys Dylan throws Welsh words in throughout his stories. I also like that he highlights the issues that can happen to law enforcement officers during their working lives. I love Rhys Dylan's portrayal of his characters and how they intertwine throughout this book. Caution Death At Work is well-written and researched by Rhys Dylan. I like Rhys Dylan's description of the settings of Caution Death At Work, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Caution Death At Work will understand the meaning of a plotter regarding law enforcement investigations. Also, the readers will learn the damage that trauma can do to children that can affect their adult lives.
I recommend this book.
February 27, 2022
Book 2 in the Black Beacons Murder Mystery (DCI Evan Warlow Crime Thrillers Series) and another great read. Reads well as a stand-alone but book one was good, and provides background to the main protagonist, so I would recommend reading it. The main action this time is set in Brechin Forest and the descriptions of the area are so good you can almost see the settings. I’m quite enamoured with Evan and his black labrador Cadi, whilst he seems a bit grumpy and somewhat sarcastic at times he clearly has a great sense of humour and he loves dogs so has to be lovely. Right?
Briefly, when a man, Rob Hopley, covered in blood runs out of the forest, and his closest friend, Andrew Geary, lies mortally wounded back at their camp Evan and his team have a mystery on their hands. The dead man was due to be married soon and his parents and fiancée are distraught by his murder. But when Rob confesses to the police about an incident that happened when they were 14 years old Evan soon has a suspect in his sights. Will the killer strike again before he/she is apprehended?
There are a few hints dropped fairly early on in the book so I had guessed the killer fairly quickly but the motive was brilliant and I hadn’t a clue. It didn’t spoil my enjoyment at all. I think the author has put together a great team to back Evan up. All of them really likeable, although I’m slightly bemused by DC Rhys Harries, can anyone really be that gullible? He comes over as a bit of an idiot, but a loveable one. I am really enjoying this series and look forward to the next book. A good fast paced police procedural and a genuinely fun read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Briefly, when a man, Rob Hopley, covered in blood runs out of the forest, and his closest friend, Andrew Geary, lies mortally wounded back at their camp Evan and his team have a mystery on their hands. The dead man was due to be married soon and his parents and fiancée are distraught by his murder. But when Rob confesses to the police about an incident that happened when they were 14 years old Evan soon has a suspect in his sights. Will the killer strike again before he/she is apprehended?
There are a few hints dropped fairly early on in the book so I had guessed the killer fairly quickly but the motive was brilliant and I hadn’t a clue. It didn’t spoil my enjoyment at all. I think the author has put together a great team to back Evan up. All of them really likeable, although I’m slightly bemused by DC Rhys Harries, can anyone really be that gullible? He comes over as a bit of an idiot, but a loveable one. I am really enjoying this series and look forward to the next book. A good fast paced police procedural and a genuinely fun read ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
November 27, 2022
This is the second book in a series of UK Police procedurals I stumbled upon and I read the first one first!!!
So now DCI is out of retirement and working with his team a murder in a forest with lots of backstory and twists and turns
Here’s the thing; I figured it out. Fairly early in the book and I thought of this is a red herring like Christie so I will be wrong but I wasn’t
And I can’t figure out if the book is simple or if I have just read too many mysteries.
So now DCI is out of retirement and working with his team a murder in a forest with lots of backstory and twists and turns
Here’s the thing; I figured it out. Fairly early in the book and I thought of this is a red herring like Christie so I will be wrong but I wasn’t
And I can’t figure out if the book is simple or if I have just read too many mysteries.
December 1, 2022
A dark past casts a deep shadow.
Evan Warlow is back in the saddle as a DCI, though he isn’t yet sure he deserves to be, and there are others who share his doubts.
When a brutal attack on two mountain bikers in the vast solitude of the Brechfa forest leaves one dead and the other badly injured, the hunt is on for the killer. And though the evidence points firmly in one direction, an open and shut case soon becomes murky and unclear.
It’s not the first time bad things have happened in these woods. Things that some have tried desperately to forget. But for the killer, it’s more a matter of unfinished business.
Unless Evan and the team can outwit a vengeful and clever murderer, someone else is going to die.
This is the 2nd book in the DCI Evan Warlow series. I read and enjoyed book 1 called The Engine House. Evan is walking his dog Cadi when he comes to Brechfa Forest and discovers a dead body of a motorcyclist, Andrew Geary, and another man, Rob Hopley, which is transported to the hospital and will be going home soon. DCI Evan Warlow is now involved with this murder. The plot is one that had me guessing throughout the book until the final ending which was a complete surprise. I really enjoyed reading this book and loved the humor and characters. I look forward to reading the 3rd book in the series, Ice Cold Murder. If you love books with humor and mystery then you will love this book.
Evan Warlow is back in the saddle as a DCI, though he isn’t yet sure he deserves to be, and there are others who share his doubts.
When a brutal attack on two mountain bikers in the vast solitude of the Brechfa forest leaves one dead and the other badly injured, the hunt is on for the killer. And though the evidence points firmly in one direction, an open and shut case soon becomes murky and unclear.
It’s not the first time bad things have happened in these woods. Things that some have tried desperately to forget. But for the killer, it’s more a matter of unfinished business.
Unless Evan and the team can outwit a vengeful and clever murderer, someone else is going to die.
This is the 2nd book in the DCI Evan Warlow series. I read and enjoyed book 1 called The Engine House. Evan is walking his dog Cadi when he comes to Brechfa Forest and discovers a dead body of a motorcyclist, Andrew Geary, and another man, Rob Hopley, which is transported to the hospital and will be going home soon. DCI Evan Warlow is now involved with this murder. The plot is one that had me guessing throughout the book until the final ending which was a complete surprise. I really enjoyed reading this book and loved the humor and characters. I look forward to reading the 3rd book in the series, Ice Cold Murder. If you love books with humor and mystery then you will love this book.
July 9, 2023
My Thoughts:
In this book, Evan Warlow is back in the force as DCI. My question is, how about Acting DCI Caldwell? So, we get two DCIs now?...
The title of the first book was apropos to the story. This one, not so much.
I don't know if I am getting cynical or reading too many books. But, I guessed who the perp is right off the bat. That is not good in a crime fiction book. Predictable or not, it was still a good read.
Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 4.5
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 4
Pace = (8 hrs and 14 mins listening time)
Plot = 4
Narration = 4
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
In this book, Evan Warlow is back in the force as DCI. My question is, how about Acting DCI Caldwell? So, we get two DCIs now?...
The title of the first book was apropos to the story. This one, not so much.
I don't know if I am getting cynical or reading too many books. But, I guessed who the perp is right off the bat. That is not good in a crime fiction book. Predictable or not, it was still a good read.
Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 4.5
Character development = 4.5
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 4
Pace = (8 hrs and 14 mins listening time)
Plot = 4
Narration = 4
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
September 25, 2024
A new murder case for Evan's team: Andy, a young man who was on a bike trip in Wales with his best friend. His parents are devastated, but was Andy the sainted son they think he was? And is an event from 14 years ago relevant to the case?
June 26, 2023
I was looking forward to reading Caution, Death At Work having just read and enjoyed The Engine House.
This book was a different matter all together though. As I read through it I got a little fed up with the ‘games’ being played amongst the police, the sarcasm and the putdowns all the time. It all seemed too childish to be real and it went on too long.
I understand that it’s very normal for sarcasm to show a friendship between two people and clearly this is what the author was tying to do but it was very overstated and boring to wade through.
Whatever happened to the obviously developing relationship between Warlow and his ‘Student’? The development of this relationship in The Engine House was good to read and set at a nice pace but suddenly it’s all gone very static and the warmth between them hasn’t progress at all.
Overwhelming, my biggest disappointment was the re-use of ideas from the Engine House.. The Beast in the Forest in the place of the Follower? Then the use of super-accurate stone throwing? Both tools to move the story on I see but too easy, and just not very likely.
Similarly we had the surprise attacks. The suddenly bet copper attempting to push a lady of over a cliff and then the stabbing the thigh. Both useful tools for the author to get to the end but too thin and too out of the blue for me to find credible.
I struggled to maintain my interest when I figured out the ending whilst still a long way from it.
Overall, disappointing.
I'll give book three a go though.
This book was a different matter all together though. As I read through it I got a little fed up with the ‘games’ being played amongst the police, the sarcasm and the putdowns all the time. It all seemed too childish to be real and it went on too long.
I understand that it’s very normal for sarcasm to show a friendship between two people and clearly this is what the author was tying to do but it was very overstated and boring to wade through.
Whatever happened to the obviously developing relationship between Warlow and his ‘Student’? The development of this relationship in The Engine House was good to read and set at a nice pace but suddenly it’s all gone very static and the warmth between them hasn’t progress at all.
Overwhelming, my biggest disappointment was the re-use of ideas from the Engine House.. The Beast in the Forest in the place of the Follower? Then the use of super-accurate stone throwing? Both tools to move the story on I see but too easy, and just not very likely.
Similarly we had the surprise attacks. The suddenly bet copper attempting to push a lady of over a cliff and then the stabbing the thigh. Both useful tools for the author to get to the end but too thin and too out of the blue for me to find credible.
I struggled to maintain my interest when I figured out the ending whilst still a long way from it.
Overall, disappointing.
I'll give book three a go though.
November 1, 2022
3.5 stars
Another enjoyable read, though with some reservations.
DC Evan Warlow is back at work and a new case has a bafffling crime of both passion and planning. Once again the procedural aspects are well done, and the main characters are generally developed well. There are clues to pick up on the way, and I got there before Warlow.
My reservations are, if I can pick up the clues, why not an experienced DC? Why send your least experienced team members to be the first to visit a suspect of a bloody murder? I wonder if anyone as naive and gullible as Rhys would really be part of a specialist murder squad. And I’m annoyed at the obviousness of future issues with the poison letter writer, because Warlow doesn’t see fit to deal with it already 2 books in to the series.
So, I will give the next one in the series a go, but if these irritations remain or grow, it might be the last.
Another enjoyable read, though with some reservations.
DC Evan Warlow is back at work and a new case has a bafffling crime of both passion and planning. Once again the procedural aspects are well done, and the main characters are generally developed well. There are clues to pick up on the way, and I got there before Warlow.
My reservations are, if I can pick up the clues, why not an experienced DC? Why send your least experienced team members to be the first to visit a suspect of a bloody murder? I wonder if anyone as naive and gullible as Rhys would really be part of a specialist murder squad. And I’m annoyed at the obviousness of future issues with the poison letter writer, because Warlow doesn’t see fit to deal with it already 2 books in to the series.
So, I will give the next one in the series a go, but if these irritations remain or grow, it might be the last.
May 7, 2023
The killer was obvious
I figured out the “who” pretty quickly, but the “why” was not as easy. The author is still dancing around the subject of Evan Warlow’s mysterious disease, which I find incredibly annoying.
I figured out the “who” pretty quickly, but the “why” was not as easy. The author is still dancing around the subject of Evan Warlow’s mysterious disease, which I find incredibly annoying.
dnf
October 15, 2024DNF at 9%. I enjoyed the first book in this series and was looking forward to this one, but then on page 9 there was this nonsense:
I have absolutely no interest in reading whiny political commentary in a mystery book, so I searched the rest of the book for "woke" and found this:
So you're so mad, scared, confused, whatever about the word "cisgender" that you absolutely had to let us all know about it, even though it has nothing to do with anything in the story, but you also don't even know how to use the word cisgender in a sentence? I can no longer take you seriously and won't be continuing with your books. I checked some negative reviews of other books in the series and snarky commentary about gender identity appears to be a recurring theme.
Also, we learn in the very beginning of book 1 that Warlow has retired because he contracted some sort of illness that he thinks renders him unsafe to continue his job or be around anyone really. It's obvious from the context that he has HIV, but for some reason the author thinks this is a compelling mystery and doesn't reveal it until the very end of book 3, which I downloaded to see how he handled the reveal. The answer is: not particularly well. The secret gets revealed because Warlow has to give a coworker mouth-to-mouth, and then feels like he has to confess that he put her at risk of contracting HIV. Also, he got HIV because he was pricked by a syringe used by a "junkie" he was investigating. Sir, do you realize it's not 1990 anymore and we're not still fearmongering about transferring HIV through saliva? Do you realize that post-exposure prophylaxis is routine and is more than 80% effective? I don't understand how you can write an HIV positive character in the 2020s without addressing these issues.
I've read a lot of books by people who are very knowledgeable about HIV and AIDS and who have written HIV positive characters with care and compassion because they wanted to explore what it's like to be HIV positive or love someone who is. Because of that, I don't see the value in reading about a character who is HIV positive seemingly only to (a) create a mystery and (b) provide a convenient reason for early retirement, written by someone who has seemingly little interest in understanding what it's actually like to be HIV positive today.
Someone had once begun a petition to replace signs announcing “Sleeping Policeman Ramp” with “Sleeping Police Officer Ramp” in a moment of woke madness. It failed and Warlow had been surprised at how delighted he’d been on hearing that.
I have absolutely no interest in reading whiny political commentary in a mystery book, so I searched the rest of the book for "woke" and found this:
‘So there is still some hope?’ Warlow aimed for irony but got nowhere near and ended up sounding desperate.
‘There always is until the morbidly obese cisgender starts her aria.’
Warlow frowned, worked – or was it woked? – out what she was trying to say, nodded at her grin, thanked her, and rang off.
So you're so mad, scared, confused, whatever about the word "cisgender" that you absolutely had to let us all know about it, even though it has nothing to do with anything in the story, but you also don't even know how to use the word cisgender in a sentence? I can no longer take you seriously and won't be continuing with your books. I checked some negative reviews of other books in the series and snarky commentary about gender identity appears to be a recurring theme.
Also, we learn in the very beginning of book 1 that Warlow has retired because he contracted some sort of illness that he thinks renders him unsafe to continue his job or be around anyone really. It's obvious from the context that he has HIV, but for some reason the author thinks this is a compelling mystery and doesn't reveal it until the very end of book 3, which I downloaded to see how he handled the reveal. The answer is: not particularly well. The secret gets revealed because Warlow has to give a coworker mouth-to-mouth, and then feels like he has to confess that he put her at risk of contracting HIV. Also, he got HIV because he was pricked by a syringe used by a "junkie" he was investigating. Sir, do you realize it's not 1990 anymore and we're not still fearmongering about transferring HIV through saliva? Do you realize that post-exposure prophylaxis is routine and is more than 80% effective? I don't understand how you can write an HIV positive character in the 2020s without addressing these issues.
I've read a lot of books by people who are very knowledgeable about HIV and AIDS and who have written HIV positive characters with care and compassion because they wanted to explore what it's like to be HIV positive or love someone who is. Because of that, I don't see the value in reading about a character who is HIV positive seemingly only to (a) create a mystery and (b) provide a convenient reason for early retirement, written by someone who has seemingly little interest in understanding what it's actually like to be HIV positive today.
July 8, 2023
I enjoyed book # 2 in the series, even though I figured out the mystery early on. Evan and Jess’ personal relationship did not advance after a promising start in book # 1. Too much time spent working and not living.
Read
November 14, 2023Always a good read
July 25, 2024
Two men, longtime friends, are attacked while camping. Plot and backstory are well done. The location (Wales) plays well into the mystery.
September 3, 2024
Good 2nd book in the series.
March 24, 2025
Delightful. If you like mysteries and police procedurals. Second in a series. Read the first one first to get familiar with the characters and the setting in Wales. A good break from heavier books.
January 23, 2023
I have read so many of these police procedurals and suspense/thrillers set in the UK (England, Scotland, Ireland and now Wales) that I can't keep the them straight any longer. I need to read them in order (a personal quirk), but I also need to read to the latest book queued in my Kindle Unlimited borrowed books, first, so I sometimes don't get to the next book in the series until I've read several other series in between.
This is a recent addition, though, to my queue, so I remembered enough to make it interesting and engaging. I didn't spend chapters trying to remember prior books. I remembered enough, that I was so engrossed with this book that I had to keep reading. It was not a straight through read. I had to give myself several breaks at times; but I was always drawn back to this book. I read it in one day. It was very compelling, very complex; but for once, my gut fingered the eventual killer earlier in the book. I didn't go with my gut, because it isn't always accurate. But in this case, it was.
I think I'm going to have to reflect on how I select my next book. It may be better to read the next book in the series than the oldest book in the queue. I'm still not convinced, however, that this is a good option.
This is a recent addition, though, to my queue, so I remembered enough to make it interesting and engaging. I didn't spend chapters trying to remember prior books. I remembered enough, that I was so engrossed with this book that I had to keep reading. It was not a straight through read. I had to give myself several breaks at times; but I was always drawn back to this book. I read it in one day. It was very compelling, very complex; but for once, my gut fingered the eventual killer earlier in the book. I didn't go with my gut, because it isn't always accurate. But in this case, it was.
I think I'm going to have to reflect on how I select my next book. It may be better to read the next book in the series than the oldest book in the queue. I'm still not convinced, however, that this is a good option.
May 24, 2022
I enjoyed this book as much as the first one. Oddly enough I guessed the killer early on which I usually don't do. The development of why everything happened as it did flowed well. Interesting that they had Tristen's trailer be neat as a pin Need to decide on Tristen's character development - last book they had him as young and smart, this one not so much and he I hope he does not get injured in the next book too. First book I felt had Jess more in charge with Evan in a consulting roll. This book she was much less of the story and less in charge and we still don't the medical issue
June 20, 2022
I love this series of books, Evan is a loveable grump & his team are great. This time, we are introduced to Gil & his dodgy biscuit tin; the super gullible Rhys is still on board. Phew!
Very briefly, two cyclists are attacked in a remote glade in a Welsh forest. Only one gets out alive. Said it was brief.
I did guess the perpetrator fairly early on, the downside of reading so much crime I suppose, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this book.
Well written, fast paced, plenty of humour & a black Labrador. Recommended.
Very briefly, two cyclists are attacked in a remote glade in a Welsh forest. Only one gets out alive. Said it was brief.
I did guess the perpetrator fairly early on, the downside of reading so much crime I suppose, but that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this book.
Well written, fast paced, plenty of humour & a black Labrador. Recommended.
October 19, 2022
This has got to be the worst plotted book I have read in a long time. I know who the killer was on page 4. Why is it that these slick detectives especially Wardell didn’t figure it out until the very end of the book. They never even seriously interviewed the guy who was supposedly the second victim. So easy to solve and waiting a whole book for some one of these bright detectives to put two and two together.
I shouldn’t even have given it one star and I am done reading these books even though I like the characters. To the author get a plot
I shouldn’t even have given it one star and I am done reading these books even though I like the characters. To the author get a plot
April 20, 2025
Did not enjoy!
I read the book before this one, almost gave it a five-star review but changed my mind. This one I found particularly slow and way too filled with description. I particularly dislike the descriptions of people that are viewed as criminals, or possible criminals. People with pimples or who are fat, or even just overweight, does not make them evil, Mr. Dylan. Also, I knew the murderer way, way up-front. Just wanted to see when the writer would finally get around to telling us so.
I read the book before this one, almost gave it a five-star review but changed my mind. This one I found particularly slow and way too filled with description. I particularly dislike the descriptions of people that are viewed as criminals, or possible criminals. People with pimples or who are fat, or even just overweight, does not make them evil, Mr. Dylan. Also, I knew the murderer way, way up-front. Just wanted to see when the writer would finally get around to telling us so.
May 3, 2023
Another good mystery but (sadly) I guessed the ‘who’ fairly early - the bonus being that my guess was correct.
Yet again a good, if complex story with many of the characters coming to life. I am less sure about the lead character… He remains two-dimensional and not particularly likeable. Will I read more? Hell yes!
Yet again a good, if complex story with many of the characters coming to life. I am less sure about the lead character… He remains two-dimensional and not particularly likeable. Will I read more? Hell yes!
September 5, 2023
Not crazy for Warlow much prefer DI Jess Wonder how long this blood condition of Warlow’s will be dragged out?
I can guess what it will be as hes on medication With modern medicine there is zero need for all this cloak and dagger stuff ….Will continue with series
I can guess what it will be as hes on medication With modern medicine there is zero need for all this cloak and dagger stuff ….Will continue with series
August 6, 2023
almost really good
But since when do you need a visa between Canada and UK? That was the fly that got me. Otherwise good as book one.
But since when do you need a visa between Canada and UK? That was the fly that got me. Otherwise good as book one.
February 4, 2025
UGH
Love and hate. There's such a thin line between the two.
Do not continue if you do not want the entire thing spoiled because I can't get away from it in this review.
Ok...just creating space so nothing I say from here on out is in the blurb you can see before the 'see more' link.
Here we go....
Why didn’t Warlow even consider Fran and Rob? In every murder book and TV show, the people closest are always the first suspects, even if they're injured too. There wasn't any real looking at this which then makes them the obvious killers. Poorly done, very poorly done. However, I will give the author props for the motive, wow, that was good. So maybe us knowing early who did it was the point and our journey was not to figure out the who, but the why? This also was the case with the first book.
Why didn’t Smelling tell dci Warlow? I do not understand this.
How did Rhys make it to even be a DC with how he is portrayed the majority of the time then bam, he figures out something vital to solving the crime? I can handle gullible to a degree, or naive but not this much.
I do love the new addition to the team though, Gil is a fun character. But why the DI, who was the team lead in the last book riding the desk this time? Makes zero sense and not the best way to go about helping the reader to get to know the other team members better.
No detective would have EVER just left after the comments the victim's mother made. They just acted like it didn't happen. Or why stop the bloke they arrested from explaining what his sister told him?
Obvious things are being ignored by the detectives.
There were so many oddities like that in this book and I simply didn't understand it. The story felt too similar to the first book, so is the author limited in imagination?
The medical issue Warlow has still haven't been revealed but I think he has HIV because of his fear passing it on to someone, the 'news' was given after some bloodwork came back, and also from the revelation his uncle had it...no I do not think the uncle gave it to him or anything as sinister as that. Maybe Hep V? I don't know but there's very few conditions one could have where you would have a legitimate fear of passing it on to someone so easily and casually, even if this idea of easy transmission is a fallacy.
Way too much political/social commentary...Woke, Cisgender, etc. All fine if it fits the case or is in context of the story itself, but it had nothing to do with anything other than showing Warlow to be more of an asshole than I initially thought.
Still commenting on women’s weight. The way he described the female solicitor is vile.
Sadly, after two books, I’m going to quit the series. I actually really like the team and their interactions, the crimes were clever, but Warlow’s internal commentary on the weight and size of every single woman, including an active and fit teenage girl, has no place in the story. Any overweight female character clearly disgusts Warlow. I cannot fully call him sexist or misogynistic because he does treat the women as competent and is actually impressed by the women on his team and does care for Molly. He does comment on men’s stature but it’s less harsh and critical. I don’t know, it just grates.
In the end, it's the author Rhys Dylan who has issues with women's physical appearance because he has written the character this way. Sexist or misogynistic don't fit as I already mentioned, because of how he writes the female detectives and Warlow's thoughts on their job performance. I am struggling to figure out what this is exactly.
Love and hate. There's such a thin line between the two.
Do not continue if you do not want the entire thing spoiled because I can't get away from it in this review.
Ok...just creating space so nothing I say from here on out is in the blurb you can see before the 'see more' link.
Here we go....
Why didn’t Warlow even consider Fran and Rob? In every murder book and TV show, the people closest are always the first suspects, even if they're injured too. There wasn't any real looking at this which then makes them the obvious killers. Poorly done, very poorly done. However, I will give the author props for the motive, wow, that was good. So maybe us knowing early who did it was the point and our journey was not to figure out the who, but the why? This also was the case with the first book.
Why didn’t Smelling tell dci Warlow? I do not understand this.
How did Rhys make it to even be a DC with how he is portrayed the majority of the time then bam, he figures out something vital to solving the crime? I can handle gullible to a degree, or naive but not this much.
I do love the new addition to the team though, Gil is a fun character. But why the DI, who was the team lead in the last book riding the desk this time? Makes zero sense and not the best way to go about helping the reader to get to know the other team members better.
No detective would have EVER just left after the comments the victim's mother made. They just acted like it didn't happen. Or why stop the bloke they arrested from explaining what his sister told him?
Obvious things are being ignored by the detectives.
There were so many oddities like that in this book and I simply didn't understand it. The story felt too similar to the first book, so is the author limited in imagination?
The medical issue Warlow has still haven't been revealed but I think he has HIV because of his fear passing it on to someone, the 'news' was given after some bloodwork came back, and also from the revelation his uncle had it...no I do not think the uncle gave it to him or anything as sinister as that. Maybe Hep V? I don't know but there's very few conditions one could have where you would have a legitimate fear of passing it on to someone so easily and casually, even if this idea of easy transmission is a fallacy.
Way too much political/social commentary...Woke, Cisgender, etc. All fine if it fits the case or is in context of the story itself, but it had nothing to do with anything other than showing Warlow to be more of an asshole than I initially thought.
Still commenting on women’s weight. The way he described the female solicitor is vile.
Sadly, after two books, I’m going to quit the series. I actually really like the team and their interactions, the crimes were clever, but Warlow’s internal commentary on the weight and size of every single woman, including an active and fit teenage girl, has no place in the story. Any overweight female character clearly disgusts Warlow. I cannot fully call him sexist or misogynistic because he does treat the women as competent and is actually impressed by the women on his team and does care for Molly. He does comment on men’s stature but it’s less harsh and critical. I don’t know, it just grates.
In the end, it's the author Rhys Dylan who has issues with women's physical appearance because he has written the character this way. Sexist or misogynistic don't fit as I already mentioned, because of how he writes the female detectives and Warlow's thoughts on their job performance. I am struggling to figure out what this is exactly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 6, 2025⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gripping, Gritty, and Gruesomely Good!
Caution: Death At Work by Rhys Dylan is a masterclass in atmospheric crime fiction. From the first chilling scene to the final heart-stopping twist, this book held me firmly in its grip. Dylan expertly blends dark psychological suspense with sharp procedural elements, delivering a mystery that’s both character-driven and pulse-pounding.
Set in the brooding landscapes of rural Wales, the story follows DCI Evan Warlow, a man returning to duty after a personal tragedy, only to find himself entangled in a brutal murder investigation at a construction site. The death scene is unsettling, the setting is claustrophobic, and the sense of unease is constant. Dylan’s prose is tight and vivid, painting each location and emotion with precision.
DCI Warlow is a compelling protagonist—damaged but determined, haunted by his past yet relentless in his pursuit of justice. His interactions with his team and the townspeople add layers of complexity to the story. The secondary characters are well fleshed-out, and each has their own secrets that keep the tension high and the reader guessing.
What really stands out is Dylan’s ability to balance the procedural aspects of the case with the emotional undercurrents of grief, guilt, and revenge. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter revealing just enough to keep the pages turning late into the night.
If you're a fan of gritty British crime dramas like Broadchurch or Happy Valley, Caution: Death At Work will be right up your alley. It's dark, smart, and deeply satisfying—a stunning start to the DCI Evan Warlow series. I’ll definitely be reading the next installment.
Caution: Death At Work by Rhys Dylan is a masterclass in atmospheric crime fiction. From the first chilling scene to the final heart-stopping twist, this book held me firmly in its grip. Dylan expertly blends dark psychological suspense with sharp procedural elements, delivering a mystery that’s both character-driven and pulse-pounding.
Set in the brooding landscapes of rural Wales, the story follows DCI Evan Warlow, a man returning to duty after a personal tragedy, only to find himself entangled in a brutal murder investigation at a construction site. The death scene is unsettling, the setting is claustrophobic, and the sense of unease is constant. Dylan’s prose is tight and vivid, painting each location and emotion with precision.
DCI Warlow is a compelling protagonist—damaged but determined, haunted by his past yet relentless in his pursuit of justice. His interactions with his team and the townspeople add layers of complexity to the story. The secondary characters are well fleshed-out, and each has their own secrets that keep the tension high and the reader guessing.
What really stands out is Dylan’s ability to balance the procedural aspects of the case with the emotional undercurrents of grief, guilt, and revenge. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter revealing just enough to keep the pages turning late into the night.
If you're a fan of gritty British crime dramas like Broadchurch or Happy Valley, Caution: Death At Work will be right up your alley. It's dark, smart, and deeply satisfying—a stunning start to the DCI Evan Warlow series. I’ll definitely be reading the next installment.
October 19, 2024
This is Book 2 of the DCI Evan Warlow series by Rhys Dylan and Warlow has now rejoined the Dyfed-Powys police force on a full-time basis, resuming his role as a Detective Chief Inspector. Although his mysterious personal reasons for initially retiring are still there, I hope this is not something that drags on over multiple books. But we shall see.
Two life-long friends are viciously attacked while mountain biking through the local Brechfa forest, one is dead, the other escapes with serious injuries. In steps DCI Warlow and his team who now have to track down a killer. While investigating, the team unearth dark secrets of bad things that happened in the past that may be directly linked to the attack.
Much like Book 1, this was a very good read, and moved along quite nicely. I had a feeling about the outcome well before the end of the book but that in no way detracted from the overall story. I am thoroughly enjoying the characters and especially Warlow’s humour and sarcasm. I am glad that the author is showing the various team members as being fallible, and that not every step of the investigation is going to lead directly to bringing the killer to justice. It is however only the second book, so character development is very much still a work in progress.
I will admit, that I really do not know much about the actual Welsh countryside, so the tidbits that are scattered throughout the story are very much a learning experience… for me anyways. So, onto the next book in the series…
Two life-long friends are viciously attacked while mountain biking through the local Brechfa forest, one is dead, the other escapes with serious injuries. In steps DCI Warlow and his team who now have to track down a killer. While investigating, the team unearth dark secrets of bad things that happened in the past that may be directly linked to the attack.
Much like Book 1, this was a very good read, and moved along quite nicely. I had a feeling about the outcome well before the end of the book but that in no way detracted from the overall story. I am thoroughly enjoying the characters and especially Warlow’s humour and sarcasm. I am glad that the author is showing the various team members as being fallible, and that not every step of the investigation is going to lead directly to bringing the killer to justice. It is however only the second book, so character development is very much still a work in progress.
I will admit, that I really do not know much about the actual Welsh countryside, so the tidbits that are scattered throughout the story are very much a learning experience… for me anyways. So, onto the next book in the series…
March 19, 2025
Having enjoyed book one in this series about a Detective Chief Inspector brought back from retirement to assist with a cold case he previously worked on, I hoped the second in the series would maintain the high standard. Thankfully, that was the case.
DCI Evan Warlow heads up a team, mentoring Detective Inspector Jess Allanby to prepare her for the Senior Investigating officer role. The team are soon joined by an experienced Detective Sergeant, Gil Jones, to do the work required in the office. Otherwise, it consists of the very competent young DS Catrin Richards and the rather naive Detective Constable Rhys who often fails to realise when DCI Warlow is winding him up.
Warlow doesn't suffer fools gladly, but isn't gratuitously rude and has a sly sense of humour. There is a good rapport in the team, with everyone supporting the others, a pleasant change from a lot of other police procedurals. I also like how the Welsh setting and language are woven in.
I won't say much about the case investigated, other than I did notice the key clue before the main character did. But the story is well developed, and there is human interest in the banter and in Warlow's love for his dog.There are a couple of running background threats - the ongoing health issue which caused him to retire in the first place and which only his boss knows about, and the threatening letters from a woman whose husband he helped jail, which I have a feeling will figure in a future story. Overall I would rate it at a full five stars.
DCI Evan Warlow heads up a team, mentoring Detective Inspector Jess Allanby to prepare her for the Senior Investigating officer role. The team are soon joined by an experienced Detective Sergeant, Gil Jones, to do the work required in the office. Otherwise, it consists of the very competent young DS Catrin Richards and the rather naive Detective Constable Rhys who often fails to realise when DCI Warlow is winding him up.
Warlow doesn't suffer fools gladly, but isn't gratuitously rude and has a sly sense of humour. There is a good rapport in the team, with everyone supporting the others, a pleasant change from a lot of other police procedurals. I also like how the Welsh setting and language are woven in.
I won't say much about the case investigated, other than I did notice the key clue before the main character did. But the story is well developed, and there is human interest in the banter and in Warlow's love for his dog.There are a couple of running background threats - the ongoing health issue which caused him to retire in the first place and which only his boss knows about, and the threatening letters from a woman whose husband he helped jail, which I have a feeling will figure in a future story. Overall I would rate it at a full five stars.
July 4, 2024
Not great but very good.
This is the second book that I've read by than a fictional this author. I liked the.mystery in both books but where the author's talent really lies is in his character development. The main character, Detective Chief Inspector Evan Warlow, if someone other than a fictional figure in a murder mystery, would be someone I think I'd like to share time time and a cup of tea. His intellectual curiosity, powers of observation, and keen sense of dry humor are all things I would enjoy finding in a friend. Not to mention his care for Cadi, hifullybrador retriever.
It's also a sign of respect and kindness that the DCI shows to the members of his investigative team that make him a likeable, relatable character.
This kind.of character, fully developed, comes across in all aspects of.the story. Even the ones with whom you would not wish to spend time.
The plot lines are a bit convoluted, but isn't that to be expected in a murder mystery? But they are not so knotted up that by the time the answer to the mystery is presented, you need your author to go on another chapter or two in order to fully understand how the mystery came to a close. You arrive at the solution at the same time as the detective. Making this a satisfying ending to a good read.
I recommend this book and I am off now to read the third in the series.
This is the second book that I've read by than a fictional this author. I liked the.mystery in both books but where the author's talent really lies is in his character development. The main character, Detective Chief Inspector Evan Warlow, if someone other than a fictional figure in a murder mystery, would be someone I think I'd like to share time time and a cup of tea. His intellectual curiosity, powers of observation, and keen sense of dry humor are all things I would enjoy finding in a friend. Not to mention his care for Cadi, hifullybrador retriever.
It's also a sign of respect and kindness that the DCI shows to the members of his investigative team that make him a likeable, relatable character.
This kind.of character, fully developed, comes across in all aspects of.the story. Even the ones with whom you would not wish to spend time.
The plot lines are a bit convoluted, but isn't that to be expected in a murder mystery? But they are not so knotted up that by the time the answer to the mystery is presented, you need your author to go on another chapter or two in order to fully understand how the mystery came to a close. You arrive at the solution at the same time as the detective. Making this a satisfying ending to a good read.
I recommend this book and I am off now to read the third in the series.
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