False Witness

 

False Witness by John Carson
4/5/26; 290 pages
Boldwood Books
DCI Liam Brodie , #2 

False Witness by John Carson is a very highly recommended procedural/crime thriller and is an excellent second book in the series featuring DCI Liam Brody.

DCI Liam Brodie is Called back to Fife, Scotland, when a body is found on the beach that closely resembles the bodies left by a serial killer called The Embalmer from seven years previously. The name was given based on how the bodies of the victims were left. The case was never solved before and the fear is that the serial killer is back or someone is imitating him. As the investigation unfolds, it seems that The Embalmer wasn't as inactive as previously thought and, in fact, he may have been expanding his modus operandi as well as targeting anyone connected with the previous murders.

The writing is exceptional in this series. With a compelling plot, the tension rising throughout this fast-paced, chilling crime thriller. It is always appreciated by this reader when procedurals logically follow the clues and information discovered during the investigation. Included within the investigation are chilling chapters from the point-of-view of victims the killer targeted to protect his identity. This could be read as a standalone novel, but I appreciated having read the first book in the series, Broken Bones. 

All the characters are portrayed as realistic individuals and the whole team continues to work very well together. Brodie's girlfriend/partner psychologist Ruth Calder is back and provides some important insight into the case. The warning about bowling leagues was also noted and appreciated. 

False Witness is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy procedurals/crime thrillers. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.