“The Brutal Tide” is the sixth book in Kate Rhodes’ DI Ben Kitto series, set on the Isles of Scilly. This was my favourite story so far but I’ve loved them all, having read them back to back since the introductory book and of course there’s no reason not to read them as standalones too. 

 

The author’s traditional dual storyline blends together perfectly and it’s this style of writing that always sees her intermittent chapters follow the victim or killer and read their personal thoughts and emotions. I instantly fell in love with the dedicated police detective and his adorable adopted dog Shadow from the very first book. Developing a relationship with regular characters always gives a reader a sense of familiarity as if you actually do know them and together with the author’s stunning descriptions of the rugged but beautiful coastline of the Scilly Isles, you literally feel like you’re living and breathing on the islands too. 

 

This particular storyline is the grittiest yet, focusing on the undercover work Ben did on the mainland and a revengeful killer showing no remorse for their actions. I was permanently tense with anticipation as Ben sought to solve Scilly’s own recent potential murder, whilst protecting himself and his heavily pregnant girlfriend from a deadly hitman. 

 

I can’t wait to read Kate’s next and latest thriller in the series “Hangman Island” and can honestly recommend this author and her books to crime readers, who love atmospheric settings. 

 

#TheBrutalTide - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️