The Bookseller

LoveReading Says

When a Bristol bookseller is found murdered in his shop, Detective Sergeant George Cross of Avon and Somerset Police learns that the bookselling can be a treacherous business.

The Bookseller by Tim Sullivan is the seventh outing for Cross, who admits that the only thing he collects is convictions. Although his methods might be unique, his record speaks for itself.

The unfortunate bookseller of the title is one Ed Squire, son of Torquil Squire, an established and respected rare bookseller in Bristol. There is no shortage of suspects for Cross to consider. The family business is struggling, since the bookselling game isn’t as profitable as it once was. Fierce rivalries in the business means the Squires have a few enemies. There’s even a local Russian oligarch who might have a connection to the crime. 

Cross has an idiosyncratic style of investigating, owing to his being on the Autism spectrum, but it is one that gets results. 

Fans of the series will be cheered to see Cross’s supporting cast of characters return, including Josie Ottey, Cross’s insightful partner who has now been promoted to Detective Inspector, forensic scientist Dr. Michael Swift, and George’s parents Raymond and Christine. It isn’t necessary to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this well-plotted police procedural, but it is a richer experience if you have.

Sullivan has written another cracking page-turner, giving readers a chance to learn both about the bookselling business, and admire the methods of a most distinctive detective.

Maureen Stapleton

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