Meet Detective Chief Inspector John Blizzard — burly and blunt. He takes no nonsense from crooks or his superiors.

Usually the police are called after a murder. This time, they’re warned before it happens.

An elderly couple contact DCI John Blizzard in fear. Their nephew is about to be released from prison — and they’re convinced he’s coming for them. Twenty years ago, he attacked them in a dispute over his inheritance. Now, they believe, he’ll return to finish what he started.

But when Blizzard investigates, he finds a community divided and a case long buried by silence. The family insists they’re telling the truth. The nephew claims he’s moved on. And then, someone turns up dead.

Caught between duty, doubt, and danger, Blizzard must decide who to believe — before another warning turns into another killing.

A tense mystery about long memories, buried guilt, and the cost of trust.

Perfect for fans of Peter Robinson, Ann Cleeves, and Joy Ellis.

DCI John Blizzard has learned to take threats seriously — especially when no one else does. With a baby at home and politics pressing from above, he should delegate. But when an elderly couple beg for protection, Blizzard knows he won’t sleep until the truth is found — or stopped.

Set in Hafton, where time moves slowly and grudges move faster, the novel spans quiet suburban houses, crumbling council estates, and care homes full of whispers. The past feels close — and its consequences closer still.

THE SERIES HAS OVER 7000 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent murder mystery storyline, enjoyed the read.” Kindle Customer

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great book, keeps you on your toes, with an unexpected twist at the end. Well worth picking up to read.” Kerry

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Another great book. The banter between Blizzard and the team is so good. The way he deals with the cases is really good. A must read.” Mulli

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Another well written and crafted story from John Dean. Lots of action with plenty of twists and turns and an exciting ending.” Kindle Customer

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A thoroughly entertaining read, with realistic characters who continue to develop as the series of DCI Blizzard books keeps improving. Highly recommended.” John O

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love this writer and this book did not disappoint.” Sue Armstrong

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This was a different direction of investigation, looking for a shooter with a list of people to kill, including cops.” Susan Green

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ All of John Dean’s books are good but I love DCI Blizzard! The books are carefully plotted and the characters are well written. I hope there are many more books in the series. I highly recommend this book!” Elizabeth P.

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very good addition to the DCI Blizzard series. The author has another series that I like as well, the DCI Harris series. No nonsense detective with interesting plot turns.” J Austen

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Just wasn’t long enough. I like DCI Blizzard and would like to know more about him.” Zippie 65