The most successful detective in Bristol's police force is Detective Sergeant George Cross. He's on the autism spectrum, and his single-minded persistence and attention to detail make him difficult to work with, but his 97% conviction rate speaks for itself.
A homeless man's death is dismissed as a random act of violence, but George insists on investigating it further. His determination pays off when he finds a connection to a fifteen-year-old cold case. Despite skepticism from his colleagues, George can be counted on to solve both cases and bring a murderer to justice.
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Having read high praise of this series from trusted sources, I knew I had to give the first book in the DS George Cross series, The Dentist, a try. Those trusted sources did not steer me wrong. Although crime solvers on the autism spectrum seem to be the flavor of the month, so much so that I've not finished a few books featuring them, Tim Sullivan drew me right into his story.
Part of the reason why The Dentist works so well is that readers get to see George, not only from his own perspective, but also from other characters' viewpoints. His partner, DS Ottey, is both exasperated by and protective of him, and watching brand-new rookie Alice MacKenzie figuring out how to work with him is a treat. George's father, Raymond, is also on hand to provide a little backstory as well as some of the wit and humor that shines throughout this book.
I enjoyed how the mystery unfolded and was anxious to see how George would bring the guilty to justice. This Maigret-loving, church-organ-playing detective has become a character I definitely need to read more about. Bring on the next book!
The Dentist by Tim Sullivan
eISBN: 9780802167101
Atlantic Crime © 2025
eBook, 384 pages
Police Procedural, #1 DS George Cross
Rating: A
Source: Net Galley
I absolutely love the DS Cross series. The fifth book The Monk is up next for me. I find I have to hold off from reading one right after another as that is not what I do. However, when I am reading another book I think about the next DS Cross book. That is unusual for me. It is now in my top reads along with Elly Griffiths Ruth Galloway series.
ReplyDeleteThe secondary characters are very good also like in the Ruth Galloway series. I signed up for Tim Sullivan's newsletter and he gives a free George Cross short story every month to the subscribers. This series is new to the USA and he mentioned that another book will be published every month here. The Dentist was the first one.
This sounds really appealing, Cathy. I know what you mean about people on the spectrum being the flavor of the month, and that can be tiresome. But it sounds as though Sullivan handles that very well. And it is fascinating to see how George is viewed by others, as well as how he views the world. The mystery sounds interesting, too. I may have to look this one up!
ReplyDeleteThis series is already on my radar - you know I love procedurals! - so I'm glad to see such a positive review from one of my trusted sources :)
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