Still Waters

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Lapslie suffers from a rare neurological condition that makes everyday sounds unbearable, forcing him to retreat from London to a quiet coastal town. When a body is discovered in a remote pond, he must return to active duty despite his condition. The investigation leads Lapslie and his sergeant, Emma Bradbury, through a complex web of clues involving multiple victims and a killer who appears to have a specific methodology. The detectives work to establish connections between seemingly unrelated deaths while racing against time to prevent further murders. As the case intensifies, Lapslie must manage both the mounting pressure of the investigation and his synaesthesia, which threatens to overwhelm him at crucial moments. His unique perception of the world, while often a hindrance, provides him with insights that other investigators might miss. The novel explores themes of isolation and adaptation, examining how people cope with personal limitations while fulfilling professional duties. Through Lapslie's condition, the story presents an unconventional perspective on the traditional police procedural format.

Readers describe this crime thriller as suspenseful with strong characterization, focusing on the police procedural elements and psychological aspects. Several note the pacing builds slowly in the first half before accelerating. What readers liked: - Detailed forensic procedures and accuracy - Complex character development of DCI Mark Lapslie - Unique element of protagonist's synesthesia - Unpredictable plot twists What readers disliked: - Some found the pacing too slow in early chapters - Multiple readers wanted more background on the killer's motives - Several mentioned confusion about timeline jumps - A few noted graphic violence was excessive Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (486 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.2/5 (89 ratings) Amazon US: 3.8/5 (42 ratings) Common reader quote: "A different take on the detective genre with the synesthesia angle, but takes time to get going."

Silent Scream by Angela Marsons A detective investigates buried bodies at a former children's home, following similar themes of past crimes and methodical police work found in Still Waters.

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🔍 Author Nigel McCrery worked as a police officer in Nottingham before becoming a television screenwriter and novelist. 📺 McCrery created several successful crime TV series, including "Silent Witness" and "New Tricks," drawing from his law enforcement experience. 🌊 "Still Waters" features Detective Inspector Mark Lapslie, who suffers from synaesthesia - a neurological condition that causes him to taste sounds. 🇬🇧 The book is part of a series set in Essex, England, and follows DI Lapslie's investigations while dealing with his unique sensory condition. 🎭 The novel's antagonist is inspired by real-life serial killers who used waterways and bodies of water to dispose of their victims.