The Curator – Washington Poe Series Book #3

Author: M. W. Craven
Genre: Thriller, Crime Fiction
376 pages
Publisher: Constable, 2020

Synopsis
The Curator by M.W. Craven is the third book in the Washington Poe series. It’s the end of the year and a serial killer is displaying body parts all over Cumbria. A strange message is left at each scene: #BSC6.

Called in to investigate, the National Crime Agency’s Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw are faced with a case that makes no sense. Why were some victims anesthetized, whilst others died in appalling agony?

When a disgraced FBI agent gets in touch, things take an even darker turn. Because she doesn’t think Poe is dealing with a serial killer at all; she thinks he’s dealing with someone far, far worse – a man who calls himself the Curator.

If you think you know what’s happening, you’re where he wants you to be…

The Curator is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Craven’s writing is clever and engaging, and his characters are well-developed and compelling. The novel is filled with twists and turns, and the tension builds steadily as Poe gets closer to uncovering the truth.

My review
The Curator by M.W. Craven is a thrilling and intricately plotted suspense novel and I think it’s Craven’s best, yet. This series is now on my automatic-buy list and I eagerly watch for the next release.

One of the standout features of The Curator is its complex and engaging plot. Craven weaves together an intelligent and intricate storyline that’s dark, atmospheric, and incredibly suspenseful. The pacing is excellent, with unexpected twists and turns and I was glued to the pages trying to figure out the truth.

The character development in The Curator is also top-notch. Poe continues to be a compelling protagonist, with his sharp wit, tenacity, and moral compass making him a character I can’t help but root for. The relationship between Poe and Bradshaw is further explored, adding depth and emotion to the story.

Another strength of the novel is its atmospheric setting. Craven’s vivid descriptions bring the village of Cumbria to life, and I was immersed in the dark and mysterious atmosphere. The sense of place adds an extra layer of depth to the story, and at times, I actually felt like I was in the English countryside.

Overall, The Curator is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that delivers on all fronts. Craven’s storytelling is top-notch, showcasing his skill in seamlessly blending elements from the crime, mystery, and thriller genres. I highly recommend The Curator to anyone looking for a thrilling and hard to put down novel.

My recommendation: read it!