Blood Runs Cold - Neil Lancaster

 

Jesus, Mary and Joseph and the wee donkey as Ted Hastings of AC12 might say. It’s no surprise then that the TV series, Line of Duty, is referenced in the latter part of this book. This is a gripping police procedural where corruption within the force is at the heart of matters.

The novel begins with a prologue that has your heart in your mouth as you feverishly read, expecting the worst. Isn’t that what happens in the majority of prologues? Oh no, not here! This author cleverly turns it around, and in the prologue everyone lives happily ever after. Not for long though. It was simply the prologue. We wouldn’t have a book otherwise would we?

You might relax at the end of that prologue but it will be the last time till you get to the end. Blood Runs Cold is a tour de force of action and reaction and the title ably describes how both readers and characters in the book feel at certain points in the book. It’s a fast paced book which propels it into the page turner category. But I felt there was a clever balance between the tension and some of the interrelationships between the team members. Different characters, different dynamics that offered a little light relief at times. That was really necessary, because my goodness there are some moments in this book.

I understand that this is the fourth in a series! So far, I haven’t read any of the others, but this book inspires me to seek them out. However, not having read, the others doesn’t detract at all from the impact and enjoyment of reading this instalment. Duos in police thrillers are not unusual. But they’re very enjoyable. DS Max Craigie is the main cop, ably abetted by DC Janie Calder. They make a great team, and the supporting cast of their potty mouth superior, Ross, Norma and the wonderful Barney make you feel like you’re part of a family and you’re rooting for them all desperate for them to solve the crime and come to no harm.The villains are suitably ruthless and evil and they send a chill down your spine. 

It’s a thoroughly engaging and entertaining read. Well, plotted and well written. The use of police techniques, forensics and technology is at times mind blowing and you need to concentrate, but oh my, it’s so worth it.

Thanks to Readers First for a gifted copy.