George Cross is fast becoming one of my favourite detectives and this is a fantastic continuation in the series, it’s fine to read as a standalone but the rest of the series is well worth investigating. This features a murder victim who initially seems as though no one would wish him harm but it’s interesting to see just how many suspects are uncovered during the investigation, this is well balanced out with fresh drama in George’s private life involving his own father. There’s some fascinating characters in this, an engrossing investigation and plenty of gentle humour too, George has a remarkable brain but it’s interesting to see the continued influence Ottey has on him. This is a really gentle detective story but not short of detail and action and great for fans of police procedurals.

The Bookseller by Tim Sullivan is book 7 in the DS George Cross series. It is published on 16 January. Thank you to Aries/Head of Zeus Fiction, Netgalley and the author for an advance copy to read and review. Torquil Squire is a 90-year old, who lives in an attic above Squire’s Rare Books in Bristol. The shop is now run by his son, Ed Squire. Dr Michael Swift, the forensic investigator and a fan of George’s, is called to a murder at the bookshop. George is on the spectrum, so he has his own way of doing most things, what most people would think of as everyday things. With what is happening in his personal life, he is a bit distracted too. What terrific characters. DS Josie Ottey is George’s partner, and she also helps him fit into the world with tips on ways to behave or interact with people. It is fascinating reading about George’s thought processes as he goes through things to say in different circumstances. He does put some people off, but those close to him understand him. George’s father, Raymond, plays an important part in this book. Who would have thought there would be so much deviousness, conspiracy and intrigue in the rare book world. Not only that, but theft, forgery, fraud and, of course, murder. This is such a brilliant series, and this book is no exception. It’s a series I would definitely recommend.

I thoroughly enjoyed this latest outing for George Cross. There are many things that make this series a delight and they are all present in this novel.

The character of George himself continues to delight with his mix of doggedness, naivety, brilliance and social awkwardness, it is especially endearing that he keeps a notebook of acceptable phrases to use in different situations, often with mixed success. His character and relationships, especially with his mother and father, are developed further and he and the readers begin to understand more about his past.

But most of all there is a cracking mystery to solve after a seller of antique books is found dead. The plot doesn't take second place to the ongoing relationships in the slightest, and as ever it is well-written - I had no idea who dun it until very close to the end.

New readers could start with this book, but I think those who are already familiar with the characters will get more out of it. Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for a review copy.

Another brilliant George Cross book. The writing is so good and well-researched. It was really interesting reading about the bookselling business. George and his team investigate the murder of Ed Squire who has done a lot of bad things, with plenty of people who have reason to dislike him.
Alongside this, Raymond, George's father is recovering from surgery, which makes George question his life and future. Their relationship is beautifully written, as is the love and friendship of Josie.
Highly recommended.

This is the 7th book in the popular DS Cross series. Cross must be one of the most original characters in crime fiction. In this book Cross and his newly-promoted colleague Josie Ossey are investigating the murder of a bookseller in Bristol. The plot is pacy and engaging, involving dishonest book deals and family secrets. There are several red herrings along the way before the murderer is brought to justice.
There are further developments in Cross's personal life after his father suffers a stroke. Although part of a series, the book can be read as a standalone.