Christmas came early for me, when the long awaited e-mail arrived, giving me access to The Night Hawks, prior to publication. Reading about Ruth and Nelson feels like having a drink, and catching up with old friends.

In this thirteenth book, The Night Hawks, a group of metal detectorists make a find on the beach of Ruth’s beloved North Norfolk coast. This find leads us to a body, and the starting point for the case. There are many little nods to current times and situations, that resonate with thoughts and concerns of 2020.
Cathbad, as ever, brings his own take on events, giving the places and story a great sense of atmosphere, linking the old ways into modern life.

There is only one problem with an Elly Griffiths book. I read them far too quickly, leaving me desperate to read the next book, which hasn’t even been written yet. If by any chance you haven’t read the first 12 books, I would highly recommend reading them first, so you can enjoy the full backstory of the realistic, and very human characters, expertly brought to life by the author. Having said that, the story works beautifully well as a stand alone read.

Ruth is a character I feel that so many women can relate to. Middle aged, balancing a busy work and home life, feeling like she should, somehow, be doing better or more. Then dealing with the niggling feelings of associated guilt. Her character is so real, so relatable, so genuine.

For me, The Night Hawks has been the best read in the 13 book series. The ending, a really touching scene with Maureen, Nelson’s Mother, has left me eager for book 14 already. I was engaged to the very last word. I have no hesitation in giving The Night Hawks 5*, if I could give more, I absolutely would.

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC for review. My views and comments are my own.

I love Griffiths’ work, and the 13th instalment of the Ruth Galloway series is another superb blend of crime and the personal - weaving in the lives of detectives solving the crime into the events in the Night Hawk perfectly.

I’ve read the whole series, and it’s a delight to spend a couple of days in their company again.

The story revolves around some detectorists, a Bronze Age discovery, talk of a disease brought over by Eastern European Beaker tribes, and drug trials to treat the ‘Flu. It feels topical given the events in 2020, but that makes sense, for a book written in lock down.

I didn’t guess the connections or the ending, and I gasped (yes GASPED), at the very last pages.

More of Ruth, Katie, Cathbad, Judy, Nelson, Tanya and Tony please!

An excellent instalment in this long running series. As always the North Norfolk coast is as much a character as Ruth and Nelson. In this book some of the old legends of the area are explored and one in particular is brought to life in an unnerving way. I enjoyed this book and would happily recommend the whole series.

All our favourite characters are back - including the love triangle of archaeology academic Ruth Galloway, cop Harry Nelson and his wife Michelle - and faced with a body discovered by the metal detecting Night Hawks.
If you haven’t read the rest of the series, this is a stand-alone novel but I’d thoroughly reading recommend the lot and seeing the characters develop.
This has the wryly observed humour of the other novels and a good plot into the bargain.
I also enjoy the push and pull of the relationship between Nelson and Ruth. In this novel Ruth is now head of department at her university and has an irritating new colleague which makes for some amusing asides.
Recommended, as are all Elly Griffiths’ novels.

This is the 13th in the Ruth Galloway series and Ruth returns from Cambridge to North Norfolk where she has taken up the post of Head of Department at the University. A body is found on the beach by a group of metal detectorists and Ruth once again becomes caught up in Nelson's investigations.
I am a huge fan of this series, it's probably my favourite crime series and I've read each novel several times. I love the characterisation, the relationships and the atmospheric North Norfolk setting. This novel does not disappoint, I loved it and read it in a couple of sittings. If you are new to the series I would recommend starting with book 1.
Highly recommended.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a digital ARC

Another great edition to this series. One comment I hope we will see some resolution for Ruth and hopefully Nelson will strive for happiness.

I wasn’t always such a fan of Elly Griffiths Ruth Galloway books. They’re written in present tense, which I often find irritating to read, and I didn’t warm to Ruth herself at first. However, the combination of tense, twisty thriller with sometimes soap opera-ish (and I mean that in the very best way) development of regular characters and their lives kept me coming back for more. Also and just as importantly, I adore the setting. Over the last few years we’ve started to holiday on the North Norfolk coast where these books are set, drawn to the big skies and otherworldly landscapes. This setting is often used to great effect in these books and sometimes find myself choosing to visit places because I’ve read about them in the series.

Usually I save these books for when I’m on holiday, reading them within landscape adds an extra layer to the story. But I’m up to date with them, having glommed at least four on my last trip to Norfolk and couldn’t resist when I saw the Night Hawks on Net Galley. After a brief session in Cambridge, Ruth has returned to her beloved cottage on the marshes-and left the easy-going American academic behind. Her relationship with Nelson, her daughter’s father, is as complicated as ever and addition she is now head of Department, to her horror finding herself sympathising with her old boss as she juggles paperwork and bureaucracy and has to deal with a new and irritating member of staff. So it’s a relief when the body is unearthed at Blakeney Beach and she is called in to do what she does best, date the bones. But the body was discovered by a group of treasure hunters, the Night Hawks of the title, and they discover another body that night, one of much more recent vintage. When one of the Night Hawks is witness to a second murder, Nelson and Ruth find themselves working together once more to uncover their secrets and discover what really is buried at Black Dog farm.

The Night Hawks is both a page turning crime novel and another satisfying saga in the lives of the Norfolk murder squad and Ruth and Nelson. Enjoyable, chilling and very readable, I just hope the next one is out by the time I return to the endless skies.

I finished this novel and felt bereft, needing the next in the series to continue reading about Dr Ruth Galloway and DCI Nelson! Griffiths has created a series of crime novels with engaging and fascinating characters leading complicated but realistic lives.
The setting of these novels is like a character itself, the brooding marshes and flat lands in Norfolk create the perfect atmosphere for the dark crimes which take place. I enjoy the element of mysticism and folklore/ legends introduced in each novel as it helps develop understanding of place and characters.
This novel has the usual twists and turns and unexpected developments which make all Griffiths’ novels worth reading, with moments of heightened drama skilfully described.
I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next instalment!

In this, the 13th book with Ruth Galloway, we find her returned to Norfolk as head of Archaeology. It’s not long before she is called in by DCI Nelson to look at a body found by the Night Hawks, a group of detectorists who hunt for treasure at night. The death toll mounts and the list of suspects becomes more interesting when Ruth’s new lecturer, David Brown keeps pushing himself in the fray.

I love the characters from this series, particularly Judy and Cathbad. I know the area where the book is set , quite well, so it is lovely to imagine the scene in places like Blakeney and Cromer. For anyone who hasn’t read any of the previous books it is still easy to pick up the back stories of each character, so works well as a stand alone read. This is a very easy and enjoyable book, with various plot lines twisting together, and the pace increases as the end gets nearer. A very satisfying ending without having guessed the murderer.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

A Body On The Beach.....
The thirteenth in the Dr Ruth Galloway series finds the bright forensic archeologist investigating another case in North Norfolk. When a group of metal detectorists (The Night Hawks) discover a body on a beach it’s not long before an intimation of murder is raised. Well written and well researched as is usual for this author. Engaging reading and a worthy addition to the series.

The Night Hawks by Elly Griffiths
I really enjoy the books in this series and having recently visited the North Norfolk coast this was a really interesting read for me. I also loved the fact that Black Shuck plays such an important role in the book. I have a dear friend from Sheringham who has often entertained me with tales of Black Shuck.
In this story there is as usual a body which needs to be assessed by Ruth Galloway now the head of the Archaeological Department at the North Norfolk University. Ruth has a new lecturer on her team and she finds herself frequently annoyed by him. The body is discovered by the Night Hawks who are a group of metal detectorists who frequently go out in the dead of night to search for hidden treasures. Alongside the ancient skeleton they however discover a much more recently deceased body and so Nelson again becomes involved bringing Ruth back into contact with the father of her daughter Katie.
There are further bodies to be investigated and throughout there are links to the folk lore of the area. As always you are led in different directions you think you have solved the mystery only to have your ideas confounded with interesting twists. A gripping read which I finished all too quickly. The usual characters are there and for those familiar with the series it is a delight to meet up with them again. As always you are left eagerly awaiting the next book in the series. I would thoroughly recommend the book and if you have not read any Ruth Galloway novels yet you have the joy of working through the whole series. I would like to thank the author, the publishers and Net Galley for the opportunity to read the book in return for an honest review.

This is the 13th book in the Ruth Galloway series by author Elly Griffiths and was is an excellent addition.All the usual characters are here and they do get better with every read. Interesting plot and plenty going on to make this another entertaining read.

The Night Hawks are a group of metal detectorists and they are searching for buried treasure in North Norfolk. While searching the nearby beaches they find a dead body who the police initially think may be an asylum seeker. DCI Nelson is leading the case and discovers that the body is that of a local boy, Jem Taylor who was recently released from prison. First assumptions are that it is an accidental drowning but when a second death occurs it all points to murder. The second murders look like the murder-suicide of a couple at the isolated Black Dog Farm.

Local legend talks of the Black Shuck, a spectral hound that appears to people before they die. DCI Nelson ignores this, even when the owner’s suicide note includes the line, ‘He’s buried in the garden.’ Ruth excavates and finds the body of a giant dog. All roads lead back to this farm in the middle of nowhere, but the place spells serious danger for anyone who goes near. Ruth doesn’t scare easily. Not until she finds herself at Black Dog Farm.

There are so many good characters in this series, Ruth, Nelson, Clough, Cathbad to mention a few and I believe they are the strength of the books. The plots are good but for me it is the group of characters with all their foibles that make this series special.

I would like to thank both Netgalley and Quercus for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Brilliant. Ruth has moved back to Norfolk with its wonderful atmospheric landscape, myths and legends. She is now head of department and there is an irritating new lecturer who seems to want to push his way into everything. Nelson is still Nelson and all the usual familiar figures make an appearance. For me it is a bit like the long awaited Christmas special of my favourite programme finally making an appearance, I absolutely loved it!

It’s always a treat to read the latest In the Ruth Galloway series by Elly Griffiths who is definitely one of my favourite authors. I almost danced round the room in joy when I was informed by NetGalley that I had been granted review access to The Night Hawks. It was an amazing early Christmas present!
Everything was put aside for a few days whilst I became engrossed in the book and once I started I just couldn’t stop, despite trying to slow my reading down so I didn’t finish it too quickly.
Ruth and the wonderful cast of characters are back and now Ruth is boss of the Archeology Department at her university, having returned to Norfolk after splitting with Frank, her ex boyfriend. She’s still in love with DCI Harry Nelson who has steadfastly remained with his glamorous wife, Michelle for the sake of their young son.
There’s a new lecturer at the university, David Brown who seems to irritate and infuriate Ruth as she tries to learn the ropes of being the boss. He keeps suggesting things and trying to spend time with her when she just wants to get on with her work. Is there a romantic intention or is it something more sinister?
When the Night Hawks, a group of metal detector enthusiasts discover a dead body on the beach, Nelson calls in Ruth as there is also a skeleton which needs looking at. This leads to further investigations when more bodies turn up and Ruth and Nelson are once again thrust into danger.
Not only does Elly Griffiths write an excellent detective story she also describes perfectly the difficult situation that Ruth, Nelson and Michelle find themselves. They are trying to behave as adults but it’s incredibly difficult when deep feelings are involved. The will they won’t they question is still there, Ruth yearns to be a normal family with Nelson and their daughter, Kate whilst he is still torn between the two women in his life. The characters are all so real for me - they feel like old friends which is obviously the sign of an expert and talented author.
There is lots of drama in the murder investigation and even more drama on the last page. I can’t wait a whole year for the next book : what will I do?
This is another winner from this excellent author and comes as a highly recommended five star read from me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my arc in exchange for an honest review.

Metal detectorists The Night Hawks are searching for buried treasure when they find a body. A recent one.

Nelson thinks he may be an asylum seeker, but he's local, recently released from prison. Ruth, however, is more interested in the Bronze Age treasure.

However, the Night Hawks are further embroiled when two of their members are first on the scene of an apparent murder-suicide....

Another brilliant outing in Norfolk for this marvellous cast of characters

Firstly thank you to Quercus Books and NetGalley for this ARC of the latest story featuring Dr Ruth Galloway. Wow what can I say but this story is absolutely gripping from the first page to the last It is full of twists and turns and it hurtles along, taking you on a rollercoaster of a ride. Everyhing is there with a lovely dose of humour. There is nothing better than curling up with the latest Elly Griffiths novel and I love how the folk tales etc are woven into the story, which just flows along.
This series just gets better and better and I cannot wait for the next one. My only disappointment was turning the last page and knowing I have to wait for the next one.
5 stars all the way.

‘The Night Hawks’ marks a welcome return to the world of archaeologist Dr. Ruth Galloway and is the 13th addition to the highly successful series and by Elly Griffiths.
I’ve read a number of the series but have missed out on some of the more recent books, so it was with joy that I sat down to catch up on the adventures of some old friends in Norfolk this weekend. And yes, reading a Ruth Galloway novel, does indeed feel like a return to a place of comfort – this is not a negative but a compliment to the author as she has a knack for catching the reader’s attention with both an engaging plotline and enjoyable characters.
A few brief sentences scattered throughout the novel are sufficient background for old readers and newcomers alike to quickly orientate themselves with the characters and their history. There is also just enough of the past plotline referenced so that readers will be curious and want to investigate the previous stories. A nice touch from the author as one of my pain points when new to a series is trying to catch up without having to either wade through lots of background material or alternatively feeling lost until I start ‘googling’. Griffiths is skilled enough to avoid this error and whet our appetites for more. She has also included a handy appendix called “Who Is Who” at the end of the story, just in case any further clarity if required.
There are plenty of humorous moments scattered thoughout the story such as when Ruth is considering Nelson’s possible reaction to some comments by Cathbad, or how she has reacted to become the Head of Dept and at least she hasn’t introduced Flint (her cat) to the staff. At times, there is a sense of wry commentary from the author when she is voicing the character of Ruth. And Ruth is a strong character who has adapted her life since we first met her back in ‘The Crossing Places’. She has become a mum, changed jobs, moved country and finally decided to return to where she feels most comfortable. She is also more confident, though her relationship with Nelson and feeling towards him, will always be, difficult.
As always, there are plenty of bones in the story – a group of amateur archaeologists called the Night Hawks have come across a body (recent) along with some bones and swords on the local beach. Ruth is called in to excavate the site and after confirming that the body is indeed recent death, DCI Nelson and team, commence their murder hunt. It’s not long before a few more victims are found, and the investigation becomes increasingly complicated as science and legends clash. Meanwhile, Ruth is concerned about her new colleague who seems to be involved with the murder case and there are some local myths which are proving to be less myth and more fact! There are several layers to the murder story but each one is neatly woven together, leading to a satisfactory conclusion to the case. The twist in the story comes courtesy of Nelson and his need to make a decision about his future – something that will keep fans guessing and waiting excitedly for the next book.
For the previous Galloway books, I’ve listened to the e-audio version and I found that I was much more engaged with the storyline when reading this e-book. For me, the story suits the format of reading and I will continue with this approach in future.
To summarise: ‘The Night Hawks’ is an entertaining, read a story of murder with lots of laughter.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Quercus for the ARC in return for an honest review.

It is only this year that I found the pleasure of reading Elly Griffiths.
When the early opportunity to read this latest Ruth Galloway title came along I was quick to put the book I was reading to one side and immediately dive into the Norfolk countryside once again.
Elly Griffiths never disappoints and this continues along a similar path to the others and leaves you wanting the next episode to come along sooner rather than later.
Recommend as always.

It’s hard to believe that this is the 13th novel featuring Dr Ruth Galloway, now head of Archaeology and back living in Norfolk. In this novel, a group of metal detectorists, the Night Hawks, discover a body when they had hoped to discover buried treasure. When the body is that of a local lady, Jem Taylor, the police focus on the motives why he was left on a beach and who was responsible (an accident is quickly proved wrong). However, Ruth is more interested in a collection of Bronze Age weapons – but nevertheless, she’s drawn into Nelson’s case, realising just how deep her feelings for him run. But when there’s another incident at a remote farmhouse, where a husband and wife lie dead, the police – and Ruth –have to wonder whether everything is connected. I love Ruth’s sense of humour and timing and her thoughts on those around her really add to the highly researched, multi-layered plots.

Elly Griffiths's archaeologist Dr Ruth Galloway series set in Norfolk is always a delight and this new addition gives us the opportunity to catch up with our much loved characters once again. Ruth has returned to her beloved cottage in Norfolk, having relinquished her prestigious post as a Cambridge lecturer, broken up with Frank, and with Phil Trent's retirement is now head of department at the University of North Norfolk. The eponymous Night Hawks are metal detectorists who go out hunting at night in search of ancient treasures such as Bronze Age coins and other artefacts the area is well known for. On one such excursion they make some interesting finds that include coins, in Cley at Blakeney Point. However, at the same time a dead body is found on the beach and DCI Harry Nelson of Norfolk Police Serious Crimes Unit and his team think it might be an asylum seeker.

An excited Ruth is called in to excavate an ancient body buried with the detectorists finds, accompanied by a recent appointment she has made in her department, David Brown, a man she is finding irritating and who refuses to recognise her position as head of department. The dead body with its distinctive tattoo of the Norfolk Sea Serpent turns out to be a local man recently released from prison, Jem Taylor. Nelson finds himself called out in the middle of the night when the Night Hawks call the police after hearing gunshots at the Black Dog Farm, reputed to be haunted, according to East Anglian folklore and legend, by a giant spectral dog, the Black Shuck, with eyes of hellfire, that appears to people prior to their death. In a narrative with a high body count, at the farm the police discover what appears to be the murder-suicide of research scientist Dr David Noakes and his wife, Linda, a primary school teacher.

The best part of this series are always the characters, such as the offbeat druid, Cathbad, Ruth's dad Arthur, living in Eltham in London, planning to get married again to Gloria, and Ruth's 11 year old daughter, Kate, is going to be a bridesmaid. Nelson is being harassed by Superintendent Jo Archer to take early retirement, something he refuses to consider, although he worries that DI Judy Johnson might leave if there is no possibility of promotion for her. The complicated relationship between Ruth and Nelson continues to play out amidst the grave dangers they find themselves in. This is another terrific addition to what is a favourite series, it is an entertaining and engaging read, although you will need to suspend your sense of disbelief at some of what occurs. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.