**The Night Watch** by **Neil Lancaster** is a gripping, fast-paced crime thriller that combines action, suspense, and a touch of moral ambiguity to keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its taut narrative and a complex protagonist, this book is a solid addition to the genre, appealing to fans of gritty, realistic crime fiction.

### Plot Overview:
The novel centers around **Tommy “The Night Watch” Mackenzie**, a former soldier turned private security contractor, who is tasked with a high-stakes job: protecting a vulnerable high-profile target in a world where danger lurks at every corner. As Tommy navigates the job, he discovers a web of lies, corruption, and deep-rooted conspiracies that go far beyond a simple security detail.

Set in the backdrop of a modern, urban landscape, the novel's tension builds steadily as Tommy uncovers a series of increasingly dangerous truths about the people he is supposed to protect and those he’s working for. He must make difficult decisions, all while facing his own inner demons, in order to stay alive and bring justice to those who are wronged. The line between right and wrong is constantly blurred, and Tommy must navigate not only the physical threats but the moral ones too.

### Character Development:
**Tommy Mackenzie** is a layered protagonist, a man torn between his past as a soldier and his present as a private security contractor. His backstory and personal struggles add depth to the plot, as he grapples with his sense of duty, morality, and guilt. Tommy is a tough character, often described as a man who’s seen too much and carried too much weight on his shoulders. His emotional scars make him a compelling figure to follow, as he balances his instincts as a protector with his growing realization that the world he’s stepped into is much more corrupt than he initially believed.

What makes Tommy particularly engaging is his struggle with his own identity and purpose. He’s not just a straightforward action hero; he’s a man haunted by his past choices and trying to make sense of the morally ambiguous world around him. This complexity elevates him above the typical action-thriller protagonist, making the book more emotionally resonant and layered.

The secondary characters, particularly those involved in the conspiracy Tommy uncovers, are well-drawn and contribute to the complexity of the plot. The story is filled with morally grey characters—people with their own motivations and backstories—that keep Tommy (and the reader) guessing about their true loyalties. These characters help to create an atmosphere of mistrust and suspicion, which heightens the tension and stakes of the story.

### Writing Style:
Neil Lancaster’s writing is direct, engaging, and highly readable. He has a knack for pacing, gradually building tension without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary detail. The prose is sharp and economical, focusing on action and character rather than on extended descriptions or overly flowery language. Lancaster’s writing feels visceral and urgent, keeping readers hooked through a series of twists and turns.

Lancaster also excels at creating an atmosphere of suspense. Whether it’s the dark streets of the city or the looming sense of danger that follows Tommy, the world he builds feels real and oppressive. There’s a sense of constant threat throughout the novel, and the pacing matches this by staying taut and focused. The stakes are high, and the story moves at a brisk pace, with plenty of action scenes, but also moments of reflection that deepen Tommy’s character.

### Themes:
1. **Morality and Consequences**: A key theme in *The Night Watch* is the exploration of morality. Tommy is forced to question his own moral compass as he uncovers a complex web of corruption. The novel explores the notion of doing the right thing versus doing what’s necessary for survival, and whether one can truly separate the two in a corrupt world.

2. **Guilt and Redemption**: Tommy’s past as a soldier, filled with morally ambiguous choices and guilt over things he’s done, plays a major role in the story. His journey is partly about redemption, as he seeks to atone for his past sins while navigating his current challenges. The novel asks whether redemption is possible for someone who has lived through violence and betrayal, and how far a person is willing to go to find peace with themselves.

3. **Corruption and Trust**: The book delves into the theme of corruption, both in the criminal world and within institutions meant to protect society. As Tommy unravels the conspiracy, he is faced with a growing sense of distrust, and the question of who he can rely on becomes central to the narrative. The theme of corruption also asks whether the system itself is inherently flawed and whether individuals can ever be truly free of its influence.

4. **Survival and Sacrifice**: Tommy’s journey is also about survival, not just physically but mentally and emotionally. He faces impossible choices that require him to sacrifice parts of himself in order to protect others. This theme explores the lengths to which people will go to protect what they care about, even if it means losing a part of themselves in the process.

### Emotional Impact:
*The Night Watch* offers a rollercoaster of emotions. The book is intense, with moments of pure action that will have readers on the edge of their seats, as well as quieter, introspective moments that give Tommy’s character depth. The emotional impact of the book comes not just from the external threats but from Tommy’s internal struggles, as he deals with his own guilt and the consequences of his actions.

As the plot thickens and more truths are revealed, readers will find themselves grappling with questions about justice, survival, and loyalty. The ending, though satisfying, leaves some lingering questions about the true cost of Tommy’s journey. The novel challenges readers to think about what they would do in Tommy’s shoes and whether they, too, would sacrifice their morals for the greater good.

### Final Thoughts:
*The Night Watch* by Neil Lancaster is an exhilarating and thought-provoking crime thriller that packs a punch both in terms of action and emotional depth. Tommy Mackenzie is a compelling protagonist, and the story moves at a brisk pace, never losing sight of the moral dilemmas and the darker aspects of human nature. Lancaster’s writing style is sharp and gripping, and he masterfully weaves a complex plot full of twists and turns.

For fans of crime thrillers with a gritty edge and characters who are morally complex, *The Night Watch* will be a highly satisfying read. It’s a book that doesn’t just offer thrills but also invites readers to think critically about the choices we make and the consequences they carry.

Fans of authors like **David Baldacci**, **Lee Child**, or **Mark Dawson** will likely enjoy *The Night Watch*, as it offers both a fast-paced plot and a character-driven story full of tension, action, and moral ambiguity. It’s a thrilling and intelligent addition to the genre.

A book that hits the ground running with two dramatic and connected murders and sees DS Max Craigie and team investigating. Having enjoyed previous Max Craigie books I was looking forward to this one - the team are fun and all of the police procedural aspects of the book feel believable.

Neil Lancaster delivers a solid and engaging race to find the killer and a well thought out storyline, however, such is his skill of defining characters, dialogue and relationships, this series would frankly be just as readable without any crimes to solve!

This is book 3 in the DS Max Craigie series and for me the books are going from strength to strength and I look forward to reading the next one.

This is Book 3 in the series and I haven't read the previous 2, but it didn't impact my enjoyment in the least.
Max, Janie, grumpy Ross and the brilliant Norma have a new case to solve. They investigate claims of police corruption in Scotland. When a criminal just released from prison is found dead, and his solicitor mysteriously goes over a cliff, it seems to much of a coincidence. When Shuggie, a local blogger, comes to them saying its suspected that police are behind it, they investigate.
They send in Niall as an undercover officer. His views on the case and the personal sacrifices that have to made to go undercover were eye opening and a little heartbreaking.
The story is brilliant. One of the murders is gross and I'm glad I wasn't eating at the time!! Not even gory, just stomach turning!
I loved that it was a bit different, different angle to a normal police procedural, and you know Neil knows his stuff as he's ex-police.
He banter between the team and the little joke between MET and Scots made me chuckle.
I will have to go back and read the previous two because they really are an enjoyable. Bring on book 4.

With thanks to the author, publishers HQ Digital, and NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC of this book in exchange ofor my honest and unbiased review.

When one of Scotland’s most dangerous criminals and then the lawyer who recently got him off in a high-profile court case are both found dead in different locations within a matter of days, it quickly becomes apparent to DS Max Craigie that he has a vigilante serial killer on his hands. Max must join forces again with his colleagues DI Ross Fraser and DC Jamie Calder to catch the killer, despite the killer seeming to be one step ahead of them at all times.

This is a fantastic third installment in the DS Max Craigie series. The plot is very well thought out, with lots of suspense and plenty of red herrings thrown in to keep the reader guessing as to the identity of the killer right to the very end. And as always, the smart comments and witty exchanges between Max, Ross, and Janie provide welcome relief at times from the tension, and gave me a few LOL moments!

This series keeps getting better and better, and I can’t wait for the next installment!

Loved this next instalment in the series and cements how brilliant Craigie and his team are! I loved the twist with this story and who the corrupt people were - didn’t see that coming and was brilliant to be shocked!
This book played out well and I was desperate to see what happened next!

Initially I think the problem with this novel, it was sold to me as being like Line of Duty. It’s not. I mean, yes it involves police and it’s a crime novel, but I just wish they hadn’t made that comparison because I was just set up for disappointment.

I think another issue is that I do read a lot of crime thrillers, and at the minute, they seemed to just be churning them out one after the other without much thought put into characters and narrative. I seem to be in the minority here, but I don’t think this was original or engaging in the slightest, and found it a bit dull if I’m honest.
The set up is fairly formulaic, a lawyer is found dead on what should be his honeymoon. This case is then linked to several other mysterious deaths, including the murder of the lawyer’s last client. However, this time the murderer isn’t trying to evade the police, he’s part of the investigation team.

I don’t know if it would have made a difference if I read the series from the beginning (this was book 3) but I didn’t really form any attachment to any of the characters. I thought the plot dragged and I found it a bit of a slog to get through, when normally I fly through a good crime novel. A tad predictable and completely forgettable when finished.

It didn’t inspire me to want to pick up another Lancaster novel sadly, I’ve just read better.

I love this series of books. Max Craigie is an excellent lead character with an interesting background which sometimes comes back to haunt him. Each story is intricate and keeps you guessing till the last. I have ordered every one for our libraries and will continue to do so. More please!

A good read, really enjoyed it and found it very gripping. Some good twists that I didn't expect. Looking forward to reading more from the author.

The tension escalates with each passing chapter in this expertly crafted thriller, ensuring you'll be glued to its pages until the end.

An absolutely brilliant book. Lots of details which made me get really absorbed to keep up with the plot! Highly recommended.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
This is the first book I have read in the series but any important events from the past are explained so I didn't feel as though I missed anything. I thought the plotline was clever and well-paced so it was impossible to be sure how things would turn out, even as the murderer was revealed. I enjoyed the author's narrative style, and would read more by him except for the amount of swear words included, mostly attributed to one particular character. I understand the need to demonstrate a character's thinking as well as speech in order to create an image, and the impression of some workplaces is that this would be normal but that doesn't mean readers need to see up to half a dozen such words on each page, especially when it is description and not speech or thoughts. This caused me to reduce my star rating by one.

Found this really interesting - loved trying to work out the scottish accents (even on the page). Very well written and an interesting plot which kept me fully engaged.

I know when I read a Neil Lancaster book I am in for a great time.

I was given a copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.

Another gripping page turner in this exciting crime series, following Max Craigie and his team as they investigate police corruption.

The death of a recently released violent criminal leads Craigie's team to suspect the killer has links to the investigation team. At the same time a man found dead in an apparent suicide whilst on honeymoon is revealed to be his lawyer.

Craigie enlists the help of a friend to go undercover as they try to obtain evidence, but every breakthrough reveals another twist as they try to work out who the killer is, exposing themselves to danger.

The Night Watch by Neil Lancaster is a very interesting and intense police procedural. Lancaster served on the police force for over twenty-five years. His expertise in writing crime fiction shines through in the intricate details of the plot. Each character is a potential suspect leaving readers scrambling to figure out this twisty whodunit. Ahh oh my goodness such a suspense! But also very difficult to follow at times. I had to go back numerous times to reread and a lot of times I just kept going because the details were almost too specific. In the end I didn't finish the book.

Thank you HQ and Netgalley.
You won't put this down once you start it - finished in 2 days and was disappointed when I finished it
Great storyline, great characters you really must read this.

Firstly, thank you to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book.

Another great story from Neil Lancaster, featuring DS Max Craigie and his anti police corruption group. His boss, Ross, is a bit of a character, but he does swear a lot!

He investigates the deaths of a career criminal, who has just had a Not Proven verdict, and the lawyer who represented him. It is a good police procedural book and the author, with his experience in the Metropolitan Police, certainly knows what he’s writing about.

Very good.

A fast paced book and one that will keep you up all night, Make sure you cancel any plans you have once you start this book because believe me you won't be able to put this down!

I did not intend to complete this within a day. I decided to listen to the audiobook and soon found I didn't want to put it down. I was gripped. I highly recommend the audiobook for this series.
While I wasn't exactly trying to figure out who was behind everything, I was still surprised by the final reveal as I hadn't once suspected them. Although looking back there was one scene where a hint could have been dropped.
This book is fully of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Wondering if a person is involved or not.

He’ll watch you.
A lawyer is found dead at sunrise on a lonely clifftop at Dunnet Head on the northernmost tip of Scotland. It was supposed to be his honeymoon, but now his wife will never see him again.
He’ll hunt you.
The case is linked to several mysterious deaths, including the murder of the lawyer’s last client – Scotland’s most notorious criminal… who had just walked free. DS Max Craigie knows this can only mean one thing: they have a vigilante serial killer on their hands.

Great exciting detective/policing standards novel, great characters and a twisting tale that keeps you guessing and on your toes for sure. I hadn’t read any other books in this series but I will definitely download them now.

Thanks for NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review. I really appreciate the opportunity to review the ARCs.
#NetGalley #TheNightWatch

The Night Watch by Neil Lancaster is a thrilling and intense read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This is my first book from this author and although it’s the third in this series it definitely can be read as a standalone.
The story follows DS Max Craigie and his team of detectives as they investigate the murder of a criminal who has just been found Not Proven at court and his solicitor. Although both bodies were miles apart DS Max Craigie thinks they are linked and begins a hunt for a corrupt vigilante police officer who is determined to take justice into his own hands.
The characters are well-developed and easy to relate to, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journey. The main character, Max Craigie, is a determined and dedicated police officer with his own back story bringing depth to his personality. The supporting characters are equally compelling, with each one bringing their own unique perspective and skills to the table.
The plot twists and turns keep the reader guessing until the very end, making it impossible to put the book down. For me, this is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and detective stories. If you're looking for a thrilling and suspenseful read, then The Night Watch is the book for you.