The Dark Edge

The Dark Edge by Nick Louth
4/24/25; 334 pages
Canelo Crime
DI Jan Talantire #3

The Dark Edge by Nick Louth is a highly recommended police procedural and the third book in the DI Jan Talantire series set in Devon.

DI Jan Talantire is investigating the death of Joanne Dexter after she apparently fell off a cliff trying to retrieve her elderly mother's hat. At first it appears to be an accident, but as more evidence is collected it becomes clear that it may have been murder and some of the witnesses are lying. Complicating matters is the fact that Joanne work for a UK intelligence agency and Talantire doesn't have the security clearance needed to hear all information. At the same time the sexual harassment case is ongoing.

This is an intricate, complicated investigation with plenty of twists and surprising discoveries along the way. I found the case Talantire was on in the previous book was more interesting, but this is still a well-written and expertly plotted addition to the series. Expect several subplots and misleading clues while the team sorts through all the clues and conduct interviews.

As the third book in the series, Talantire's character development is ongoing. She is portrayed as a tough, intelligent and compelling character with strengths and flaws, however, it also feels like her character is written from a male perspective. There are also a plethora of other characters to keep track of while reading, including members of her team and various suspects and witnesses. 

The Dark Edge will best be appreciated by readers who enjoy procedurals and who have read the two previous books in the series. Thanks to Canelo Crime for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.