The Reckoning by Kerry Watts

Recently, I was asked to read this book, from an author completely new to me.

The Blurb:

A series of grisly murders drags D.I. Grant Noble back from compassionate leave following the tragic death of his wife.

Ross Blake sees the injustice of the world all around him and sees no other option but to begin evening the score. The slayings initiate a shocking sequence of events that will lead directly back to Grant's door.

But can he battle his own demons and protect what's left of his family?

My Review:

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I loved it. I will definitely be looking out for more.

DI Grant Noble is called back in to work from compassionate leave following the death of his wife, to look into a very gruesome murder. The victim is a convicted paedophile, recently released from prison, and when Noble and team realise this is the third similar murder in recent weeks, they know they are dealing with a serial killer.

We know who the perpetrator is from the outset - Ross Blake, a young man who was abused by his own father and pretty much ignored by his junkie mother. Blake is a well written character, and we see the love that he has for his dog and his grandmother. It's very hard not to feel sympathy for Ross - he is clearly damaged, and his victims are evil men.

Grant Noble is another great character. He is very recently widowed, struggling with his OCD and anxiety attacks. Some of his actions out strain on his relationship with his daughter Katie, who is trying to process her own grief.

There is a lot going on in this book. The action moves along at a cracking pace and the body count increases. The murder scenes are described graphically and are not for the faint hearted! There are also several subplots going on - one involving Grant, one Katie and one with Scott, her boyfriend. These helped add interest and the complete package easily kept my attention. Would recommend.

You can buy The Reckoning here:

UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reckoning-Kerry-Watts-ebook/dp/B079Q42D12/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522573614&sr=8-1&keywords=the+reckoning+kerry+watts

US https://www.amazon.com/Reckoning-Kerry-Watts-ebook/dp/B079Q42D12/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522573527&sr=8-1&keywords=the+reckoning+kerry+watts

And in all good bookshops!