Amazon.co.uk Review
Peter Turnbull's P Division novels have gleaned a considerable following, with their depiction of Glasgow's mean streets. With
Fear of Drowning, we are in the superficially more sedate city of York. However, Detective Inspector George Hennessy soon discovers that murderous intentions can lurk beneath the most placid of exteriors. When a middle-aged couple, Max and Amanda Williams, disappear and are later found murdered in a shallow grave. Although no-one appeared to wish them harm, when Hennessy digs deeper into their lifestyle and heirs, he discovers some startling facts: both of the partners appeared to have illicit liaisons with other people; one of a sexual nature, the other financial. And as the investigation fastens on the disturbing behaviour of the Williams' son, Hennessy is soon encountering a host of suspects and dark mystery from the past. Retaining the salty authenticity of his P division novels, Turnbull ensures that his tightly-plotted narrative moves with considerable speed towards its satisfyingly astringent finale.--
Barry Forshaw
Review
'I can think of no other writer who so vividly captures the atmosphere of hopeless urban menace' The Times 'Engrossingly readable' Guardian
Turnbull has received excellent reviews in the past, but this novel, though solidly constructed, is rather disappointing. The plot centres on the disappearance of a wealthy middle-aged couple, who are later found buried in a shallow grave. Detective Inspector George Hennessey, of the City of York police, patiently tracks the culprit to the novel's denouement. Although the story is not uninteresting, and the novel's opening is enticing, the characters are forgettable and the writing lacks sparkle. Readers interested in nihilism and urban noir are better off with Jim Thompson or Raymond Carver, who are aware of the difference between laconic, and flat. (Kirkus UK)