A Killing of Innocents by Deborah Crombie Series: Duncan Kincaid & Gemma James #19
Published by William Morrow on February 7, 2023
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 368
Format: Hardcover
Goodreads
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
About A Killing of Innocents
A Killing of Innocents starts as a young woman hurries through the crowd in London’s historic Russell Square. Out of the darkness, someone jostles her, then brushes past. A moment later, she stumbles, collapsing against a tree. When a young mother finds her body and alerts the police, Detective Superintendent Duncan Kincaid and his sergeant, Doug Cullen, are called to the scene. The victim, Sasha Johnson, is a trainee doctor at a nearby hospital, and she’s been stabbed.
Kincaid immediately calls his detective wife, Gemma James, who has recently been assigned to a task force on knife crime. Along with her partner, detective sergeant Melody Talbot, Gemma joins the investigation. But Sasha Johnson doesn’t fit the profile of the typical knife crime victim. Single, successful, daughter of a black professional family, she has no history of abusive relationships or any connection to gangs. She had her secrets, though, and Kincaid uncovers an awkward connection to his Notting Hill friends Wesley and Betty Howard.
My thoughts on A Killing of Innocents
This long-running series of British police procedurals has been a favorite of mine since the beginning. With each book, the relationships, both personal and professional, become more entwined and the stories richer. In this 19th installment, Duncan’s latest case crosses over with Gemma’s research into local knife crimes.
Deborah Crombie excels at vivid descriptions of the places and people she’s writing about. There’s the usual blended household of controlled chaos with Gemma and Duncan’s three kids and assorted pets. Plus you get caught up with team members and friends as they intersect with Gemma and Duncan’s lives.
I love the intricately plotted puzzle that braids together multiple mysteries and suspects. The story moves at a quick pace but never sacrifices logic to move the plot along.
In closing
If you love smart, satisfying police procedurals that give you a glimpse at the people behind the investigation, definitely try A Killing of Innocents.
For fans of Anthony Horowitz.
Thank you William Morrow for the ARC.
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