After the shock at the end of Nighthawking (so shocking that I made notes so I didn't forget what happened) I was so excited to pick up Cold Reckoning, book three in the DS Adam Tyler series. I have to say that this is probably my favourite one so far, and I *really* loved the first two. Like most books that form part of a series, you can read this one as a standalone but I would heartily recommend picking up Firewatching and Nighthawking because there's a very important back story and threads that run throughout all three.

Cold Reckoning sees Tyler investigating a frozen body found in the local reservoir and possible links to a cold case, alongside DC Mina Rabbani and DCI Jim Doggett. Russ Thomas's characterisations are very strong and I was so keen to meet these three again. Tyler is also looking into his father's death sixteen years ago which appeared to be suicide but which Tyler has his doubts about.

There are very distinct Line of Duty vibes to this book and I just couldn't put it down. I was thoroughly engrossed in the unfolding action and the fast-paced story, which takes place over the course of one week. Tyler's a bit of a maverick, He's a good cop but he knows that not all police are the same. He, and I, didn't know who to trust and it makes for a nailbitingly thrilling experience.

I'm hoping there's more ahead for Tyler. Certainly there is a possible liaison to be explored further and the ending left me wanting to know what happened next. Thomas is a brilliant writer, bringing to life the Sheffield sights that are so familiar to me with an amazing and gripping plot and fantastically complex characters. Cold Reckoning had me well and truly hooked. ( )