The Dissection Murders

The Dissection Murders (A DS Maddox Novel) by Steve Packwood
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 13 August 2024

A series of gruesome murders shocks the community as middle-aged women are subjected to live dissection and humiliating abuse. Detective Sergeant Grant Maddox, haunted by ghosts from his past, teams up with rookie DC Amber Bennett to unravel this horrifying case.

Their investigation delves into the darkest corners of human depravity, uncovering unexpected connections between a plane crash in France, an elite school for the privileged, and the mutilated victims. As the case progresses, Maddox's own history threatens to collide violently with the present.

"The Dissection Murders" delivers a gripping, intense thriller that pushes the boundaries of the crime genre. The author crafts a complex narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end, with an unexpected twist that subverts initial assumptions.

The novel's strength lies in its unflinching approach to dark subject matter. The author doesn't shy away from graphic details, providing a visceral and sometimes uncomfortable reading experience that may not be for the faint of heart. This raw honesty, however, adds to the book's authenticity and impact.

Character development is another highlight. The evolving relationship between Maddox and Bennett adds depth to the story, while glimpses into their personal lives humanise these detectives facing unimaginable horrors. This balance between the professional and personal aspects of the investigators' lives enhances the overall narrative.

The pacing is well-managed, maintaining tension throughout while allowing for necessary exposition and character moments. The interweaving of seemingly disparate elements – the plane crash, the elite school, and the murders – creates an intriguing mystery that keeps readers engaged.

While the graphic nature of the crimes and their description may be too intense for some readers, those who appreciate darker, more challenging crime fiction will find much to admire here. The novel successfully blends procedural elements with psychological depth, creating a multi-layered reading experience.

In conclusion, "The Dissection Murders" is a well-crafted, dark thriller that delivers on its promise of shock and surprise. Its intricate plot, complex characters, and unflinching approach to its subject matter make it a standout in the genre. Recommended for readers who enjoy their mysteries with a hefty dose of psychological horror and aren't afraid to confront the darker aspects of human nature.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Level Best Books | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles, and the author, Steve Packwood, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.