Red Box

Red Box by Will Strang is literally a police procedural. Reading more like a true crime book it painstakingly tells the story of a drug bust in far more detail than most works of fiction.While this is inevitable as author Strang is a former detective and undercover policeman it does make the plotline feel somewhat pedestrian. That wasn't a problem for me as I'm an avid reader of true police stories,and specifically those written by former undercover officers but if you're expecting something along the lines of a Stephen Leather or Mark Billingham novel you're going to be disappointed.

I did enjoy it,the story involves the investigation of a drug network from "Mr Big" through to petty dealers with an in-depth look at how undercover police patiently watch their prey and the intricacies of putting a case together that will get a result in court.
The whole thing is very detailed and realistic to a degree that I wondered why the author didn't just write a non-fiction book in the first place, aside from the last couple of chapters ,and the cliffhanger ending, I'm guessing it was very much based on a genuine case anyway.

As a detailed insight into how British police investigate drug dealing and the efforts they have to make to ensure a conviction,collate evidence etc it's a good read,and ironically becuase of that detail probably more of interest to those who enjoy true crime books.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.

“Red Box: Hunting the Drug Traffickers” by Will Strang is a gripping narrative that delves into the intricate and perilous world of drug trafficking. Strang, with his extensive background as a detective and undercover officer, brings a level of authenticity and detail to the story that is rarely seen in fiction.

The novel follows two tenacious detectives on a dark winter evening as they begin an investigation that spirals into a complex web of deceit and danger. Their journey takes readers from the quiet suburbs of London to the untamed Cornish coast, painting a vivid picture of the settings with Strang’s descriptive prose.

What sets this book apart is its unique narrative structure, offering multiple perspectives from the Street Dealer, the Distributor, and the Importer. This approach not only adds depth to the characters but also provides a comprehensive view of the drug trade’s operational intricacies. The reader is given a rare glimpse into the minds of those on both sides of the law, making for a nuanced and balanced portrayal of a typically black-and-white issue.

Strang’s writing is both methodical and engaging, reflecting his three decades of experience in law enforcement. His intimate knowledge of drug distribution shines through, lending the story a sense of realism that is both educational and enthralling. The pacing is deliberate, echoing the painstaking nature of real-life investigations, which may not suit all readers looking for constant thrills, but I am a police procedural addict, and I loved this book. For those interested in the procedural aspects of crime-solving, “Red Box” is a treasure trove of insight.

The book’s strength lies in its ability to humanize a subject often dehumanized by society. Strang doesn’t shy away from the moral ambiguities and the harsh realities faced by those involved in the drug trade. His characters are well-fleshed out, with motivations and backstories that evoke empathy rather than judgment.

Overall, “Red Box: Hunting the Drug Traffickers” is a well-told tale with twists and turns that will satisfy fans of police procedurals and readers interested in the true-to-life workings of criminal investigations.

5 stars from this reviewer. I hope the future holds many more novels from the talented debut author Will Strang.