annieb123's Review of The Darkest Evening (Vera Stanhope, #9)

by Ann Cleeves

DCI Vera Stanhope returns in The Darkest Evening, the ninth novel in Sunday Times bestseller Ann Cleeves' enduringly popular series.

Driving home during a swirling blizzard, Vera Stanhope's only thought is to get there quickly.

But the snow is so heavy, she becomes disoriented and loses her way. Ploughing on, she sees a car slewed off the road ahead of her. With the driver's door open, Vera assumes the driver has sought shelter but when she inspects the car she is shocked to find a young toddler strapped in the back seat.

Afraid they will freeze, Vera takes the child and drives on, arriving at Brockburn, a run-down stately home she immediately recognizes as the house her father Hector grew up in.

Inside Brockburn a party is in full swing, with music and laughter to herald the coming Christmas. But outside in the snow, a young woman lies dead and Vera knows immediately she has a new case. Could this woman be the child's mother, and if so, what happened to her?

A classic country house mystery with a contemporary twist, Ann Cleeves returns with a brilliant Vera novel to savour.

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

The Darkest Evening is the 9th outing for Vera Stanhope and her crew by Ann Cleeves. Released 8th Sept 2020 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 384 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats.

There are relatively few authors whose work I know I will be seeking out no matter what. Ann Cleeves is one of a handful on my list. I especially love her Vera Stanhope books (as well as the wonderful TV series based on the characters. Brenda Blethyn has made such an indelible stamp on the character that I can "see" her in my head whilst reading). I had pretty high expectations going into this book but never expected to be blown away.

I really love the development of Vera and the people on her team. From the first book (The Crow Trap), Vera and crew were well fleshed out and believable, and the plots have been solid and tightly written and plotted. This book is so meticulously well crafted - clearly the author has hit her (masterful) stride.

Beautifully written and completely compelling. The scenery is bleak and breathtaking and lends so much atmosphere to the book. Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Darkest Evening (Vera Stanhope, #9)

by Ann Cleeves

Reviewed by annieb123 on Sep 9, 2020

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