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DCI Kett #11
King Rat
When you find yourself in hell,
Sometimes you have to become a Devil.
DCI Kett’s worst nightmares have finally come true, the mysterious group known as Hollenbeck have resurfaced. After being violently abducted, Kett wakes inside a labyrinthine warehouse with no apparent way out—a warehouse rigged with deadly traps.
And he’s not alone in here.
Forced to become a rat in a maze, Kett must use every skill he has if he wants to escape. But there is a far greater price to pay if he ever wants to see his family again.
On the outside, DI Porter, DC Savage and PC Aaron Duke face a race against time to locate Kett before it’s too late. But Hollenbeck are smart, and this case may prove too much even for the Extreme Crime Task Force.
Because Kett is in hell, and he’s about to come face to face with the greatest evil of them all...
Sometimes you have to become a Devil.
DCI Kett’s worst nightmares have finally come true, the mysterious group known as Hollenbeck have resurfaced. After being violently abducted, Kett wakes inside a labyrinthine warehouse with no apparent way out—a warehouse rigged with deadly traps.
And he’s not alone in here.
Forced to become a rat in a maze, Kett must use every skill he has if he wants to escape. But there is a far greater price to pay if he ever wants to see his family again.
On the outside, DI Porter, DC Savage and PC Aaron Duke face a race against time to locate Kett before it’s too late. But Hollenbeck are smart, and this case may prove too much even for the Extreme Crime Task Force.
Because Kett is in hell, and he’s about to come face to face with the greatest evil of them all...
425 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2022
1431 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Alex Smith
25 books678 followersAlex Smith wrote his first book when he was six. It wasn’t particularly good, but it did have some supernatural monsters in it. His latest books, the DCI Robert Kett thrillers, have monsters in them too, although these monsters are very human, and all the more terrifying for it. In between these two books he has published twelve other novels for children and teenagers under his full name, Alexander Gordon Smith—including the number one bestselling series Escape From Furnace, which is loved by millions of readers worldwide and which is soon to become a motion picture. He lives in Norwich with his wife and three young daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
November 1, 2022
My heart rate is just settling!
Well, that was really quite exhausting. This book was delivered at midnight and, silly me, I thought I'll just read the first chapter. Yeah right, I just couldn't stop reading and at 4.30 this morning, after laughs, tears and increased heart rate, I finished what I think is the best book in the DCI Kett series. I'm not going to outline the plot as others do it far better. All I will say is how amazing Mr. Smith's writing is. I've become so invested in all the main characters and I seriously worried about Robbie at times in this story. Hope book 12 isn't too long in coming. Bravo Alex, job well done.
Well, that was really quite exhausting. This book was delivered at midnight and, silly me, I thought I'll just read the first chapter. Yeah right, I just couldn't stop reading and at 4.30 this morning, after laughs, tears and increased heart rate, I finished what I think is the best book in the DCI Kett series. I'm not going to outline the plot as others do it far better. All I will say is how amazing Mr. Smith's writing is. I've become so invested in all the main characters and I seriously worried about Robbie at times in this story. Hope book 12 isn't too long in coming. Bravo Alex, job well done.
October 12, 2025
King Rat by Alex Smith is the 11th book in the DCI Kett Mystery series. DCI Robert Kett is violently abducted outside his home by the mysterious Hollenbeck group and finds himself trapped in a maze like warehouse rigged with various mind bending games, challenges and traps, fighting to stay alive , all while being watched on CCTV cameras, just like an experimental rat in a maze. The Extreme Crime Task Force race against time to locate their colleague before it is too late. The action switches back and forth between Kett and the task force, and is relentless on both sides. This book brings together a lot of Kett's previous cases which started with Billie's kidnapping, and even though I have read them previously, it was nice to have all the cases referred to summarized at the end. I particularly enjoyed the get togather at the end at their superintendent's house showing the camaraderie of the group. We don't see as much of Kett's girls as in previous books but this book shows us how much his family and colleagues are cherished by him. A fabulous and exciting thriller, fast paced and plenty of humour despite all the evil.
August 15, 2024
Nicht ganz der Höhepunkt, den ich als Auflösung erwartet hatte, aber trotzdem alles wieder sehr spannend!
November 7, 2022
I had pre-ordered the eBook for this, so it dropped to my devices on release day. And I started reading it first thing that morning. I devoured this volume over 3 days. It was hard to put down. Now it was not as fast paced as some of the other Kett novels. And really not as violent or gruesome. The description of this instalment in the Kett saga is:
“When you find yourself in hell, it pays to be a Devil.
DCI Kett’s worst nightmares have finally come true, the mysterious group known as Hollenbeck have resurfaced. After being violently abducted, Kett wakes inside a labyrinthine warehouse with no apparent way out—a warehouse rigged with deadly traps.
And he’s not alone in here.
Forced to become a rat in a maze, Kett must use every skill he has if he wants to escape. But there is a far greater price to pay if he ever wants to see his family again.
On the outside, DI Porter, DC Savage and PC Aaron Duke face a race against time to locate Kett before it’s too late. But Hollenbeck are smart, and this case may prove too much even for the Extreme Crime Task Force.
Because Kett is in hell, and he’s about to come face to face with the greatest evil of them all...”
I started this book the day it released, and even though it was a very busy week at work I ripped through it in a few days. I could not put it down. All of the Kett books are dark, and somewhat disturbing British Crime Thrillers, but this one takes it to a completely different level. Kett has been taken, and his new team the Norfolk Constabulary’s Extreme Crime Task Force, are doing everything they can to find him. Kett wakes up in a maze, and while working his way through the maze he encounters others who were drugged and found themselves there as well. Billy is beside herself. And Kett realizes it is some sort of test or gauntlet. It is another great story an intense series. There are a few twists in this tale and somethings very much unexpected.
If you have been fallowing the saga of DCI Kett this book is a must read. If you happen to be a fan of rough and tough action you will almost certainly enjoy this novel. And the other books in the series. This is the eleventh of the DCI Kett stories that I have read, the tenth novel, Kett has also made a brief appearance in The Harder They Fall, the first of the Softley Series of books. But back to this volume.
This one is much more of a procedural crime thriller, as they team works clues and tries to track down Kett. Norman Balls wants in on the investigation, and even takes Billy under his wing. And using skill, cunning and just a bit of luck Kett just might survive. Can they team put it all together in time?
This is another dark and gritty crime thriller from the pen of Alex Smith. About the author we are informed that:
“Alex Smith wrote his first book when he was six. It wasn’t particularly good, but it did have some supernatural monsters in it. His latest books, the DCI Robert Kett thrillers, have monsters in it too, although these monsters are very human, and all the more terrifying for it. In between these two books he has published thirteen other novels for children and teenagers under his full name, Alexander Gordon Smith—including the number one bestselling series Escape From Furnace, which is loved by millions of readers worldwide and which is soon to become a motion picture. He lives in Norwich with his wife and three young daughters.”
My introduction to Smith’s works were The Furnace novels many years ago. I have not read everything he has published but much of it. And they are always edge of your seat thrillers. I still hope that someday he will finally release book 2 is the Softley Softley Series, but until then I am thankful for another read in this dark and disturbing series. For some the Kett stories will be the things of nightmares, for others a look at the underside of society. But no matter how you read them they are crime thrillers with a lot of action, great characters and often a lot of violence! And this one has several surprising twists!
“When you find yourself in hell, it pays to be a Devil.
DCI Kett’s worst nightmares have finally come true, the mysterious group known as Hollenbeck have resurfaced. After being violently abducted, Kett wakes inside a labyrinthine warehouse with no apparent way out—a warehouse rigged with deadly traps.
And he’s not alone in here.
Forced to become a rat in a maze, Kett must use every skill he has if he wants to escape. But there is a far greater price to pay if he ever wants to see his family again.
On the outside, DI Porter, DC Savage and PC Aaron Duke face a race against time to locate Kett before it’s too late. But Hollenbeck are smart, and this case may prove too much even for the Extreme Crime Task Force.
Because Kett is in hell, and he’s about to come face to face with the greatest evil of them all...”
I started this book the day it released, and even though it was a very busy week at work I ripped through it in a few days. I could not put it down. All of the Kett books are dark, and somewhat disturbing British Crime Thrillers, but this one takes it to a completely different level. Kett has been taken, and his new team the Norfolk Constabulary’s Extreme Crime Task Force, are doing everything they can to find him. Kett wakes up in a maze, and while working his way through the maze he encounters others who were drugged and found themselves there as well. Billy is beside herself. And Kett realizes it is some sort of test or gauntlet. It is another great story an intense series. There are a few twists in this tale and somethings very much unexpected.
If you have been fallowing the saga of DCI Kett this book is a must read. If you happen to be a fan of rough and tough action you will almost certainly enjoy this novel. And the other books in the series. This is the eleventh of the DCI Kett stories that I have read, the tenth novel, Kett has also made a brief appearance in The Harder They Fall, the first of the Softley Series of books. But back to this volume.
This one is much more of a procedural crime thriller, as they team works clues and tries to track down Kett. Norman Balls wants in on the investigation, and even takes Billy under his wing. And using skill, cunning and just a bit of luck Kett just might survive. Can they team put it all together in time?
This is another dark and gritty crime thriller from the pen of Alex Smith. About the author we are informed that:
“Alex Smith wrote his first book when he was six. It wasn’t particularly good, but it did have some supernatural monsters in it. His latest books, the DCI Robert Kett thrillers, have monsters in it too, although these monsters are very human, and all the more terrifying for it. In between these two books he has published thirteen other novels for children and teenagers under his full name, Alexander Gordon Smith—including the number one bestselling series Escape From Furnace, which is loved by millions of readers worldwide and which is soon to become a motion picture. He lives in Norwich with his wife and three young daughters.”
My introduction to Smith’s works were The Furnace novels many years ago. I have not read everything he has published but much of it. And they are always edge of your seat thrillers. I still hope that someday he will finally release book 2 is the Softley Softley Series, but until then I am thankful for another read in this dark and disturbing series. For some the Kett stories will be the things of nightmares, for others a look at the underside of society. But no matter how you read them they are crime thrillers with a lot of action, great characters and often a lot of violence! And this one has several surprising twists!
March 11, 2023
King Rat by Alex Smith
King Rat by Alex Smith is book 13 in the DCI Kett crime thriller series and this is another violent and relentless crime thriller.. This time Kett is kidnapped outside his home and his team are relentless in trying to find him, alongside his wife Billie.
Will Kett be found, will Hollenbeck continue in their evil ways or will they finally be destroyed?
An interesting storyline and terrific characters.
Highly recommended
King Rat by Alex Smith is book 13 in the DCI Kett crime thriller series and this is another violent and relentless crime thriller.. This time Kett is kidnapped outside his home and his team are relentless in trying to find him, alongside his wife Billie.
Will Kett be found, will Hollenbeck continue in their evil ways or will they finally be destroyed?
An interesting storyline and terrific characters.
Highly recommended
November 15, 2022
Another brilliant book from Alex Smith.
After the ending of the last book I couldn’t wait to get started on this one.
Everyone is in shock at what’s happened but they know they need to find Kett before it’s too late.
Billie is full of fear as she knows what Hollenbeck are capable of and is desparate to get him back.
Clare pulls out all the stops to find Kett and Porter and Savage are determined to help despite being physically exhausted after the last case.
This is a real nail biter and had me on the edge of my seat.
There’s some great humour as well which softens the nightmare situation Kett finds himself in.
A brilliant book.
After the ending of the last book I couldn’t wait to get started on this one.
Everyone is in shock at what’s happened but they know they need to find Kett before it’s too late.
Billie is full of fear as she knows what Hollenbeck are capable of and is desparate to get him back.
Clare pulls out all the stops to find Kett and Porter and Savage are determined to help despite being physically exhausted after the last case.
This is a real nail biter and had me on the edge of my seat.
There’s some great humour as well which softens the nightmare situation Kett finds himself in.
A brilliant book.
January 14, 2023
This book left me feeling a little bit frustrated. Only because I still don’t quite know who the hell these people are and how they were allow to continue for so long.
Having said that. The book was brilliant and I thought this was the last book for dci Kett so I’m so pleased there’s another book on the way.
I really enjoy Alex Smith and the DCI Kett series.
Having said that. The book was brilliant and I thought this was the last book for dci Kett so I’m so pleased there’s another book on the way.
I really enjoy Alex Smith and the DCI Kett series.
November 29, 2025
This was an emotional rollercoaster!
So much happened in the 24 hours he was gone. I do kind of love the addition of Norman Balls to the story. That moment of doubt when Dunst disappeared was awful too! Glad it all turned out in the end though! I do wonder if we have seen the last of Hollenbeck! However, I was very satisfied with the happy ending of this one.
So much happened in the 24 hours he was gone. I do kind of love the addition of Norman Balls to the story. That moment of doubt when Dunst disappeared was awful too! Glad it all turned out in the end though! I do wonder if we have seen the last of Hollenbeck! However, I was very satisfied with the happy ending of this one.
April 29, 2024
If I had to describe this book in one word it would be ‘intense’. I found myself questioning characters I hadn’t considered to be ‘guilty’ but It kept me on my toes and made me yearn to turn the page even when I could hardly keep my eyes open.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2023
Absolutely riveting! This is a book that you won’t want to put down. It keeps you in suspense till the very end. This is a must read book for thrillers. On to the next one.
November 6, 2022
Excellent! Really couldn’t put it down! Absolutely love this series! Love all the characters! Can’t wait for the next book!
November 8, 2022
Bloody Excellent
No words. Knock Knock and King Rat are brilliant. It is no understatement to say that I’m glad we all made it this far.
A word to Alex Smith: when I read the synopsis of the book, I was dreading it, it sounded so horribly intense. But the hamster story? I busted out laughing! Out loud. Thank you for hilarity amongst the tension :)
No words. Knock Knock and King Rat are brilliant. It is no understatement to say that I’m glad we all made it this far.
A word to Alex Smith: when I read the synopsis of the book, I was dreading it, it sounded so horribly intense. But the hamster story? I busted out laughing! Out loud. Thank you for hilarity amongst the tension :)
January 20, 2023
*****Best Work Yet ****
I can’t even put into words how much this book has consumed my life .
I read the book , I will need to listen to the audio book too
All the feels , pulls you in right from the beginning, a crazy rat race .
Chapter 29…. I don’t even know how to explain how tense that chapter was, I didn’t breathe , desperately trying to slow my reading down so I don’t miss a single word. I have to take a minute before I continue, I’m scared to know or think of what could happen….
This is by far the best Alex smith has written in this series, I honestly can’t put into words how amazing this book is
Please please start this series if you haven’t already, you will not be disappointed
My only problem now is finding my next read because the bars set higher after reading this book .
I can’t even put into words how much this book has consumed my life .
I read the book , I will need to listen to the audio book too
All the feels , pulls you in right from the beginning, a crazy rat race .
Chapter 29…. I don’t even know how to explain how tense that chapter was, I didn’t breathe , desperately trying to slow my reading down so I don’t miss a single word. I have to take a minute before I continue, I’m scared to know or think of what could happen….
This is by far the best Alex smith has written in this series, I honestly can’t put into words how amazing this book is
Please please start this series if you haven’t already, you will not be disappointed
My only problem now is finding my next read because the bars set higher after reading this book .
March 21, 2024
a bit silly
Ok so I know it’s fiction but this one was just a bit silly. I flicked past a few of the scenes in Hell House. They were just too far fetched and I knew that Kett was going to survive so I flicked past them. Thank goodness that was the end of the Hollenbeck nonsense! Let’s just see what happens next. I’m getting a bit bored of the use the word “toss” too x
Ok so I know it’s fiction but this one was just a bit silly. I flicked past a few of the scenes in Hell House. They were just too far fetched and I knew that Kett was going to survive so I flicked past them. Thank goodness that was the end of the Hollenbeck nonsense! Let’s just see what happens next. I’m getting a bit bored of the use the word “toss” too x
November 7, 2022
The best one yet.
I really enjoyed this book, the story continues with a conclusion.
The only think I do dislike is how unkind and derogatory the characters are to Duke. It's not needed.
However, the storyline was one of the best in the series.
I really enjoyed this book, the story continues with a conclusion.
The only think I do dislike is how unkind and derogatory the characters are to Duke. It's not needed.
However, the storyline was one of the best in the series.
August 29, 2024
King Rat is the eleventh installment in Alex Smith's DCI Kett series, and it continues to deliver the gritty, fast-paced crime drama that fans have come to expect. Set against the desolate landscape of Norfolk, the book immerses readers in a world of sinister secrets, depraved crimes, and intricate characters.
DCI Robert Kett is a seasoned detective who has endured more than his fair share of horrors, and it shows in the way he confronts each new challenge. Having been kidnapped from his own doorstep and thrust into a living nightmare, Kett’s response is classic Kett—handling the situation with a mix of fury and intellect, never allowing the perpetrators to win in their twisted game. Kett is a compelling protagonist—flawed, determined, and haunted by his past. His interactions with his team, as well as the criminals he pursues, are layered with nuance and depth.
The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own quirks and backstories. Characters like Savage, Duke, Porter, and Allie are brought to life with vivid detail. Billie’s coping journey, and the lengths she and Kett would go to for their family’s protection, add emotional depth to the narrative. And of course, there’s Norman Balls, the amateur detective wannabe, who adds a unique touch to the story.
King Rat doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of humanity, making it a tough but rewarding read for fans of the genre. Smith excels at portraying the psychological toll that such cases take on law enforcement, adding an extra layer of realism to the story.
Overall, King Rat is a strong addition to the DCI Kett series, cementing Alex Smith’s reputation as a master of crime fiction. If you’re a fan of dark, atmospheric thrillers with complex characters and tightly woven plots, this book is definitely worth your time.
DCI Robert Kett is a seasoned detective who has endured more than his fair share of horrors, and it shows in the way he confronts each new challenge. Having been kidnapped from his own doorstep and thrust into a living nightmare, Kett’s response is classic Kett—handling the situation with a mix of fury and intellect, never allowing the perpetrators to win in their twisted game. Kett is a compelling protagonist—flawed, determined, and haunted by his past. His interactions with his team, as well as the criminals he pursues, are layered with nuance and depth.
The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own quirks and backstories. Characters like Savage, Duke, Porter, and Allie are brought to life with vivid detail. Billie’s coping journey, and the lengths she and Kett would go to for their family’s protection, add emotional depth to the narrative. And of course, there’s Norman Balls, the amateur detective wannabe, who adds a unique touch to the story.
King Rat doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of humanity, making it a tough but rewarding read for fans of the genre. Smith excels at portraying the psychological toll that such cases take on law enforcement, adding an extra layer of realism to the story.
Overall, King Rat is a strong addition to the DCI Kett series, cementing Alex Smith’s reputation as a master of crime fiction. If you’re a fan of dark, atmospheric thrillers with complex characters and tightly woven plots, this book is definitely worth your time.
August 23, 2023
Wow!
This may sound odd, but I was SO pleased when I saw that a new book had just landed by Alex Smith that I discovered somehow in the past very disruptive months, I had entirely missed the fact there were 2 PRIOR books I hadn’t read. It’s only thanks to kindle sorting them into groups that I DID notice!
So I sat down to read this one & I was glad the author had done something few if any do, a quick catch-up of the prior few books relevant to this one, & all my memories of the series & characters came rushing back. I wish more authors would do this, because if your a prolific reader it can be hard to get your mind back into long running plots, characters etc.
Anywhos, about THIS book, I can only say two words BLOODY BRILLIANT!
I absolutely loved it, read it in 3 giant gulps, trying to turn pages as fast as possible while not wanting the book to end. The book has a good old horror storyline in some respects, think the Cube or Saw movies, both utilized to their full potential.
All the characters we know & love are in there, being their own true selves & making the book all the crazier, madder & of course so SO much better for it.
If you’ve never read this series, start at book one, you could just dive into this one, but you’d lose so much when it comes to the backstories & characters, that you’d just be cheating yourself from even more enjoyment.
To the author, thank you, what’s more to say, just a good old thank you for hours of escape & enjoyment into another world.
This may sound odd, but I was SO pleased when I saw that a new book had just landed by Alex Smith that I discovered somehow in the past very disruptive months, I had entirely missed the fact there were 2 PRIOR books I hadn’t read. It’s only thanks to kindle sorting them into groups that I DID notice!
So I sat down to read this one & I was glad the author had done something few if any do, a quick catch-up of the prior few books relevant to this one, & all my memories of the series & characters came rushing back. I wish more authors would do this, because if your a prolific reader it can be hard to get your mind back into long running plots, characters etc.
Anywhos, about THIS book, I can only say two words BLOODY BRILLIANT!
I absolutely loved it, read it in 3 giant gulps, trying to turn pages as fast as possible while not wanting the book to end. The book has a good old horror storyline in some respects, think the Cube or Saw movies, both utilized to their full potential.
All the characters we know & love are in there, being their own true selves & making the book all the crazier, madder & of course so SO much better for it.
If you’ve never read this series, start at book one, you could just dive into this one, but you’d lose so much when it comes to the backstories & characters, that you’d just be cheating yourself from even more enjoyment.
To the author, thank you, what’s more to say, just a good old thank you for hours of escape & enjoyment into another world.
November 4, 2022
King Rat -
Wow, Wow, Wow… What a book! As I always say after reading a book in this series, can Alex make them any better? The answer - yes. Kett has been kidnapped by Hollenbeck and is placed in the ‘Hell House’. The team are frantically investigating his kidnapping and chasing after Hollenbeck to find him. But will they get there on time? Kett is going through numerous rooms within ‘The Maze’ and experiencing life threatening ordeals, but along the way picking up with others who appear to have been kidnapped. People and incidents threatening their lives. The problem is who can/can’t he trust? The book is action packed from the start and is a real page turner. I stayed up to 1:30am last night just to finish it off. I really do recommend that you read the whole series, as they are all great books. You could read this as a stand-alone, but you really wouldn’t understand some of the back stories that are weaved throughout this book. I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of this book and was not disappointed. Even though this is a very dark story line, there is still some of the brilliant humour that Alex adds to this series. Looking forward to book 12. If I could give this a 6 out of 5 I would!
Wow, Wow, Wow… What a book! As I always say after reading a book in this series, can Alex make them any better? The answer - yes. Kett has been kidnapped by Hollenbeck and is placed in the ‘Hell House’. The team are frantically investigating his kidnapping and chasing after Hollenbeck to find him. But will they get there on time? Kett is going through numerous rooms within ‘The Maze’ and experiencing life threatening ordeals, but along the way picking up with others who appear to have been kidnapped. People and incidents threatening their lives. The problem is who can/can’t he trust? The book is action packed from the start and is a real page turner. I stayed up to 1:30am last night just to finish it off. I really do recommend that you read the whole series, as they are all great books. You could read this as a stand-alone, but you really wouldn’t understand some of the back stories that are weaved throughout this book. I’ve been eagerly awaiting the release of this book and was not disappointed. Even though this is a very dark story line, there is still some of the brilliant humour that Alex adds to this series. Looking forward to book 12. If I could give this a 6 out of 5 I would!
December 26, 2025
King Rat is book eleven in the DCI Kett series by Alex Smith. After just getting his wife back, DCI Kett thought his life would return to an everyday family life. However, he was wrong when he was violently abducted by the same group called Hollenbeck and placed in a labyrinthine warehouse, which was rigged with deadly traps that he needed to get through to escape. While he fights to escape, his team, DI Porter, DC Savage, and PC Aaron Duke, is racing to find him. Will the team find him in time? Readers of King Rat will continue to follow DCI Kett to discover what happens.
If you want to read a crime book that is different from general crime books, this is the book for you. The characters and the story engaged me from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. I started to understand how, in some situations, law enforcement officers can be corrupted.
I enjoy the way Alex Smith portrays his characters and their interactions throughout this book. King Rat is well written and researched by Alex Smith. I like Alex Smith’s descriptions of the settings in King Rat, which allow me to imagine being part of the book’s plot.
I recommend this book.
If you want to read a crime book that is different from general crime books, this is the book for you. The characters and the story engaged me from the first page and kept me hooked to the end. I started to understand how, in some situations, law enforcement officers can be corrupted.
I enjoy the way Alex Smith portrays his characters and their interactions throughout this book. King Rat is well written and researched by Alex Smith. I like Alex Smith’s descriptions of the settings in King Rat, which allow me to imagine being part of the book’s plot.
I recommend this book.
June 2, 2025
Wow, Wow, Wow… What a book! Just finished reading King Rat book 11 in the DCI Robert Kett series by Alex Smith. As I always say after reading a book in this series, can Alex make them any better? The answer - yes. Kett has been kidnapped by Hollenbeck and is placed in the ‘Hell House’. The team are frantically investigating his kidnapping and chasing after Hollenbeck to find him. But will they get there on time? Kett is going through numerous rooms within ‘The Maze’ and experiencing life threatening ordeals, but along the way picking up with others who appear to have been kidnapped. People and incidents threatening their lives. The problem is who can/can’t he trust? The book is action packed from the start and is a real page turner. I really do recommend that you read the whole series, as they are all great books. Even though this is a very dark story line, there is still some of the brilliant humour that Alex adds to this series, especially with Clare & his favourite word 🤣
November 8, 2022
A lot happens in a day....
Thank goodness the author managed to get this book out before January as there is no way I could wait after the cliffhanger of the last one. Well done, Alex Smith, who in spite of bouts with doctors and testing brought this nice, long, action packed thriller in waaay before deadline. How does he do it? It takes off with a bang and doesnt let up. How does Kett survive one terrible hazard after another when he just came off an exhausting case with no break? A superman to put the rest to shame yet he is driven to survive by his love for his wife and three little girls. This book puts him to the ultimate moral test. The family and other police characters are there but mostly in the background as Kett battles alone to solve the Hollenbeck conundrum. The Super is still his inimitable tossmuffin self. Haha.
Thank goodness the author managed to get this book out before January as there is no way I could wait after the cliffhanger of the last one. Well done, Alex Smith, who in spite of bouts with doctors and testing brought this nice, long, action packed thriller in waaay before deadline. How does he do it? It takes off with a bang and doesnt let up. How does Kett survive one terrible hazard after another when he just came off an exhausting case with no break? A superman to put the rest to shame yet he is driven to survive by his love for his wife and three little girls. This book puts him to the ultimate moral test. The family and other police characters are there but mostly in the background as Kett battles alone to solve the Hollenbeck conundrum. The Super is still his inimitable tossmuffin self. Haha.
November 6, 2022
This is the sort of book that keeps the reader up all night, just needing to read one more chapter, then another, then .....
It's that good. The action comes thick and fast from the very start. There's red herrings and false trails aplenty, humour too (perhaps not quite as much as in some other DCI Kett books) and lots of good characters. In my humble opinion, the reader should ideally have read the other DCI Kett books to get most out of this. The story builds on what has gone before.
The ending left me with a big question. Does Alex Smith intend to write any more DCI Kett books? I'd be sad if he didn't. But he could leave the series there if he wanted to. Whatever he does, please Alex Smith keep writing like you have in King Rat. Superb crime thriller stuff.
It's that good. The action comes thick and fast from the very start. There's red herrings and false trails aplenty, humour too (perhaps not quite as much as in some other DCI Kett books) and lots of good characters. In my humble opinion, the reader should ideally have read the other DCI Kett books to get most out of this. The story builds on what has gone before.
The ending left me with a big question. Does Alex Smith intend to write any more DCI Kett books? I'd be sad if he didn't. But he could leave the series there if he wanted to. Whatever he does, please Alex Smith keep writing like you have in King Rat. Superb crime thriller stuff.
November 11, 2022
This novel is Alex Smith at his best. The twists and turns going on here, you would think you were in a huge, tight maze! Originality is not an issue with this author! Where he comes up this these ideas, well who knows! But I am thankful he does. He has a diverse type of team, all very different in their own right! They always pull together to win the war! There is plenty of tension while reading, and just as much laughter. I am learning a whole new language thanks to Alex Smith! Alex gets himself into a pickle this time, but he might get out of it! And this brings out the strength in his marriage! It also shows the strength of the team, including his boss (whom I'm learning the new language from). I look forward to each of Alex's books, and I'm already looking forward to his next one!
August 29, 2025
Another great story...
This is Book 11 in the DCI Kett series, and it's yet another great story. Every time I think I've sussed what's going on, here comes another twist in the tale.
I think one of the things I enjoyed most is that even though Kett et al are all detectives, they're still not infallible. The twists are never out of place, either, because it never seems to just appear out of nowhere. There has always been a subtle hint somewhere along the way.
I'm going to continue reading all of the rest of the books in the series, as the characters are so well written, it feels like they're real people, and Alex Smith has made me care about what happens to them all!
Highly recommended. Indulge yourself and enjoy.
This is Book 11 in the DCI Kett series, and it's yet another great story. Every time I think I've sussed what's going on, here comes another twist in the tale.
I think one of the things I enjoyed most is that even though Kett et al are all detectives, they're still not infallible. The twists are never out of place, either, because it never seems to just appear out of nowhere. There has always been a subtle hint somewhere along the way.
I'm going to continue reading all of the rest of the books in the series, as the characters are so well written, it feels like they're real people, and Alex Smith has made me care about what happens to them all!
Highly recommended. Indulge yourself and enjoy.
November 13, 2022
SIMPLY SUPERB!
There is very little I can say about this fabulous series that I haven't previously said but Alex please keep 'em coming because your books bring so much pleasure to your faithful fans. I was delighted when King Ray popped up in my kindle library after such a cliff hanger with book 10 but it was compulsive reading from the very first page. Easily read it in two sessions if was near impossible to put down. Beautifully written, loveable characters and for a change a nice ending and will eagerly await book 12. Thank you Alex you're an outstanding author. BP Sheffield x
There is very little I can say about this fabulous series that I haven't previously said but Alex please keep 'em coming because your books bring so much pleasure to your faithful fans. I was delighted when King Ray popped up in my kindle library after such a cliff hanger with book 10 but it was compulsive reading from the very first page. Easily read it in two sessions if was near impossible to put down. Beautifully written, loveable characters and for a change a nice ending and will eagerly await book 12. Thank you Alex you're an outstanding author. BP Sheffield x
November 17, 2022
Bloody brilliant
I have been looking forward to reading this book. As always not disappointed. I do wonder sometimes about the mind of Alex Smith and how he thinks of these storylines but I'm glad he does.
Left is once again up against it and is set many trials by his kidnappers. I love the way the books are written with humour amongst the horror even though at times it seems inappropriate to laugh! 😄
Highly recommend this series of DCI Kett books but start with no 1. It will be a trial to wait for the next one. I was very worried that this going to be Robert Kett's farewell, so glad it isn't.
I have been looking forward to reading this book. As always not disappointed. I do wonder sometimes about the mind of Alex Smith and how he thinks of these storylines but I'm glad he does.
Left is once again up against it and is set many trials by his kidnappers. I love the way the books are written with humour amongst the horror even though at times it seems inappropriate to laugh! 😄
Highly recommend this series of DCI Kett books but start with no 1. It will be a trial to wait for the next one. I was very worried that this going to be Robert Kett's farewell, so glad it isn't.
December 5, 2022
First chapter was terrifying me as to whether I could cope with carrying on under the circumstances ! (Those that read this book will know) But I couldn’t not read the last book in this brilliant series, so I persevered and was glad that the next chapter was the Teams investigation.
The whole book was just riveting and I couldn’t put it down . Well actually I did have to build an Ikea desk in between but as soon as I could, I got a coffee and resumed. I loved it. It was the best yet and I really hope DCI Kett and his team bring us some more stories oh and of course, Alex Smith as well .
Thanks Alex , a thoroughly enjoyable 11 books
The whole book was just riveting and I couldn’t put it down . Well actually I did have to build an Ikea desk in between but as soon as I could, I got a coffee and resumed. I loved it. It was the best yet and I really hope DCI Kett and his team bring us some more stories oh and of course, Alex Smith as well .
Thanks Alex , a thoroughly enjoyable 11 books
November 7, 2024
I don’t normally write reviews but I’m going to make an exception here!
I’m reading all the DCI Robbie Kett books in order and I’ve loved them all but this one - wow!! It’s a bit of a cliche to say ‘I couldn’t put it down’ or ‘a real page turner’ but oh my goodness!! There were times in this book that got my heart racing and I found I couldn’t stop reading until I’d finished.
The chief protagonists are truly likeable characters but I did find myself falling down the intended rabbit hole (or should that be Robert hole??) for a while.
Really recommend this entire series but I recommend they be read in order.
I’m reading all the DCI Robbie Kett books in order and I’ve loved them all but this one - wow!! It’s a bit of a cliche to say ‘I couldn’t put it down’ or ‘a real page turner’ but oh my goodness!! There were times in this book that got my heart racing and I found I couldn’t stop reading until I’d finished.
The chief protagonists are truly likeable characters but I did find myself falling down the intended rabbit hole (or should that be Robert hole??) for a while.
Really recommend this entire series but I recommend they be read in order.
November 3, 2022
I love the DCI Kett books and have been urgently awaiting this since the ending of Knock Knock.
So book 11 starts with the addiction of Kett by Hollenbeck the nemesis that took his wife and the entity behind many of the crimes over the series.
Kett has to try survive both physically and emotionally from physiological and physical attacks in the maze whilst the team try and piece it all together.
At first I was a little suspicious of this format but it plays out well and ultimately this book delivers well. I loved it. Roll on book 12
So book 11 starts with the addiction of Kett by Hollenbeck the nemesis that took his wife and the entity behind many of the crimes over the series.
Kett has to try survive both physically and emotionally from physiological and physical attacks in the maze whilst the team try and piece it all together.
At first I was a little suspicious of this format but it plays out well and ultimately this book delivers well. I loved it. Roll on book 12
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2022
Has Robbie finally met the Devil?
Robbie is asked by Keith Dunst to come outside of his home to discuss a matter.
There Robbie is bundled into a van, by people wearing animal head masks.
A search commenced quickly, but the case seems to go cold almost as it began when the van is found empty just streets away.
The next hours are like a horror movie. Robbie Kett wakes up in daze, his mind telling him this is the work of Hollenbeck.
Can he survive their non stop torture. A must read for fans of DCI Kett.
Robbie is asked by Keith Dunst to come outside of his home to discuss a matter.
There Robbie is bundled into a van, by people wearing animal head masks.
A search commenced quickly, but the case seems to go cold almost as it began when the van is found empty just streets away.
The next hours are like a horror movie. Robbie Kett wakes up in daze, his mind telling him this is the work of Hollenbeck.
Can he survive their non stop torture. A must read for fans of DCI Kett.
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