Black Summer – Washington Poe Series Book #2

Author: M. W. Craven
Genre: Thriller, Crime Fiction
392 pages
Publisher: Constable, 2019

Synopsis
Black Summer by M.W. Craven is the second book in the Washington Poe series. Jared Keaton, chef to the stars – charming, charismatic, psychopath – is currently serving a life sentence for the brutal murder of his daughter, Elizabeth. Her body was never found and Keaton was convicted largely on the testimony of Detective Sergeant Washington Poe.

Helped by the only person he trusts, the brilliant but socially awkward Tilly Bradshaw, Poe races to answer the only question that matters: how can someone be both dead and alive at the same time? Then Elizabeth goes missing again – and all paths of investigation lead back to Poe.

Black Summer is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Craven’s writing is sharp and engaging, and his characters are well-developed and complex. It’s a must-read for fans of crime fiction, and M.W. Craven cements his place as a master of crime fiction with this gripping novel.

My review
Black Summer by M.W. Craven is a masterful continuation of the Washington Poe series, delivering another dose of gripping suspense and intricate storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat. The story is clever, intricately constructed, puzzling, and seemingly unsolvable.

One of the highlights of the novel is the character development. Washington Poe continues to be a compelling protagonist, with his sharp wit, fierce determination, and underlying vulnerability making him a character I can root for. The dynamic between Poe and his colleague, Tilly Bradshaw, is also a standout, providing moments of humor and warmth amidst the darkness of the investigation. Perhaps my most favorite character is Edgar, Poe’s dog, who adds a little levity into what is mostly a dark and intense story.

The novel is also notable for its atmospheric setting. The Lake District once again serves as a haunting backdrop for the story, adding to the sense of isolation and unease that permeates the narrative. Craven’s descriptive writing brings the setting to life, and I was immersed in the dark and rugged beauty of the landscape.

Overall, Black Summer is a superbly crafted thriller that builds on the strengths of its predecessor while also offering new twists and turns. Craven’s storytelling is top-notch, and fans of crime fiction will not be disappointed. I highly recommend Black Summer to anyone looking for a gripping and compelling read with exceptional character development.

My recommendation: read it!