The Village Killer (DI Barton #7) by Ross Greenwood

ABOUT THE BOOK

After three years behind a desk, Inspector John Barton wonders if he’s still got what it takes.

An opportunity arises to return to Major Crimes, so he jumps at it, after all he’s been around the block a few times. When he and his team are called in to investigate an attempted murder which seems to be linked to the case of a missing child, Barton is immediately thrust back into the life of a detective – early mornings, late nights and endless pressure to get to the truth.

Then a man dies.

Something deadly is going on behind the high walls and imposing gates of the mansions in the sleepy village of Castor. The locals are keeping each other’s secrets and if Barton doesn’t find out why soon, the bodies will start mounting up.

The Village Killer knows who’s next, and the clock is ticking…

The book all Ross Greenwood fans have been waiting for – Barton is Back! Ross Greenwood returns to his bestselling series, perfect for fans of Mark Billingham and Ian Rankin.

MY REVIEW

Book 7 in the DI Barton series is a refreshing blend of police-procedural suspense and lighthearted moments that will resonate with many crime fiction lovers.

Acting DCI Barton hits the ground running as he returns to Major Crimes, encountering two unconnected crimes converging unexpectedly in a seemingly ordinary English community that is anything but typical. Barton is a multi-dimensional character one can relate to with his hands-on approach to investigation and his concern for the emotional well-being of his squad. This balance of empathy and assertiveness makes him a refreshing protagonist in a genre that can often lean toward the archetypal lone-wolf detective. I also loved Barton’s close bond with his family and friends which adds to his authenticity and charm.

Greenwood’s ability to sustain suspense is commendable. He effectively uses well-paced clues and red herrings to keep you on your toes. His skillful pacing sets him apart, and he knows precisely when to insert humor into the plot or when to delve deeper into suspenseful twists.

This engaging police procedural is a must for anyone who loves character-driven mysteries. The twists and turns are skillfully executed, and the characters are complex.

Thank you to Mr. Greenwood for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

DI Barton Series

1 The Snow Killer (2019)
2 The Soul Killer (2020)
3 The Ice Killer (2020)
4 The Cold Killer (2021)
5 The Fire Killer (2022)
6 The Santa Killer (2022)
7 The Village Killer (2024)

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ross Greenwood has had an eclectic career, ranging from financial advisor to Prison officer. The advent of parenthood and the terrifying rise of Spice in prison led Ross to become a stay -at-home parent and a novelist.