The Quiet Dead
N J Mackay
Genre:
Mystery, Psychological
Series Book 1 in the DI Sebastian Locke Mystery
Publisher Hera
Date Published 2023
Book Length 333
Format E Book supplied by Love Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating ***** 5*****Â Â I loved it, and highly recommend
About Book
Fifteen years ago, he confessed to the murder of his wife and children.
As a teenager, Hayley DaSilva walked into a nightmare; discovering the bodies of her mother, twin brother, and friend all brutally slaughtered in her home… and her nine-year-old brother missing. Her father, Leonard DaSilva, confessed to the murders, but Ethan was never seen again.
He lied. But why?
Now, Hayley has fled her dreadful past in Thamespark - until the call from Detective Sebastian Locke. Little bones uncovered in a shallow grave belong to Ethan… and the investigation reveals holes in the case that prove Leonard’s confession was false. He didn’t kill his family. So why did he say he did?
As DI Locke and the squad realise that a killer has been hiding in plain sight in the sleepy commuter town of Thamespark, the previously cold case becomes an urgent investigation. But as the squad gets closer to the truth of who really murdered the DaSilvas, it becomes clear that the culprit won’t hesitate to spill blood to keep their shocking secrets hidden…
An absolutely, unputdownable police procedural with a shocking twist, introducing Detective Sebastian Locke. Fans of Karin Slaughter, Cara Hunter and Sharon Bolton will love this.
My Thoughts
‘The Quiet Dead’ by MJ Mackay starts with a bang and intricately unfolds to integrate the characters so you can develop a picture of who’s who, gently but tenaciously pulling you in. The short paragraphs make the storyline feel more urgent, which hypes up the intensity of the story making you want to read faster.
‘The Quiet Dead’ is a beautifully crafted novel that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, romance, and psychological thriller from the moment I opened the book I was drawn in.
The characters in ‘The Quiet Dead’ are multi-dimensional and relatable each carrying their own burdens.
The only negative I have to say about the book is about the repetitive statement, ‘that they had their guy’. But it was only a minor irritant in a very good book.
One of the books stand out features is the expertly woven plot, there are many characters involved and the mystery unfolds keeping you guessing to the end. Moreover, the prose I found exquisite. The authors writing style enhances the story’s atmosphere and made each scene seem poignant to the whole story, it’s a testament to their skill that they can evoke such a range of emotions from fear to wonder in the reader.
My favourite character: The protagonist DI Sebastian Locke – he shows a great work ethic, is good at his job and wants to get to the truth. But he also has flaws and a human side. A character you want to get to know more.
My favourite quote: Â I trained my brain to look away fast from dangerous places. When things sprang up, uninvited and excruciating, like a fever threatening death.
In conclusion ‘The Quiet Dead by NJ Mackay’ is a masterfully crafted novel that excels in delivering a gripping story. It’s a haunting exploration of the human psyche, the weight of the past and the mysteries that lie beneath the surface a must for anyone who loves a great mystery, crime novel or psychological thriller. I for one can’t wait for the next book in the series.
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