Vengeance Day

Author: Simon Dinsdale

Genre: Crime, Thriller Mystery

Series: The Detective Christian Dane thriller series book 2 of 2

Date Published: 2023

Book Length: 264

Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend

About Book: Liam Rafferty and Mary Sullivan are both Irish Republican dissidents. Their plan is to bring terror to the British mainland and avenge Liam's brother’s murder. Their former comrades in Belfast learn of his activities and order Mick McArthur, the Republican movement's intelligence chief, to stop them at any cost. Detective Superintendent Christian Dane works the most serious crimes and is determined to get justice for the victims. He leads major inquiries in Essex. When Karen Teller, a veteran MI5 officer, receives a warning of an imminent terrorist attack, by an unknown dissident group, Dane is called in to investigate. The only lead is a weekly call to Belfast made from a telephone box on the Essex coast. With Detective Constable Hayley Cross, Dane’s most capable officer, at his side they set to work tracking the terrorists down. Working around hindrance from Chief Superintendent Brown of the Met Counter Terrorism Command Dane isolates and arrests some of the gang and confirms the threat is real. As he races to prevent the attack Rafferty's plans for him are revealed. Dane must now risk everything to protect his family from Rafferty’s vengeance.

My Thoughts: "Vengeance Day" by Simon Dinsdale is a gripping crime thriller and the second book in the Detective Christian Dane series. The story begins by focusing on the perpetrator, setting the scene with meticulous detail. Dinsdale’s ability to vividly describe people and places is a testament to his writing prowess. His thorough research and deep knowledge of the subject matter elevate the book, making it all the more believable.

Detective Christian Dane is a compelling character, portrayed as both formidable and human, which adds a layer of authenticity. However, I was less enthusiastic about the character Grant, who reappears from the previous book, leaving me puzzled about his continued presence.

While this book is the second in the series, it can be read as a standalone. However, reading the first book enriches your understanding of the main characters. I particularly enjoyed how the story delves into Dane’s life outside of work, adding depth to the narrative. As the plot progresses, the tension builds, making it increasingly difficult to put the book down.

In conclusion, "Vengeance Day" sets the stage gently but delivers a fast-paced and thrilling second instalment in the series. If you love crime thrillers, I highly recommend giving this book a try.