This new Roy Grace novel focuses on the horrific lengths that criminals will go to in order to steal dogs from owners and breed puppies for money. In the middle of the night at an isolated farm, a farmer is crushed to death as he tries to stop a gang from stealing his dogs and his brood of new born puppies.This investigation hits a little too close to home as Roy becomes the victim of the dog knappers they are hunting. Stop them Dead is the 19th Roy Grace novel and was as excellent a read as I have come to expect from this great series.What’s wonderful about a new Roy Grace novel is from page one it’s like you’re catching up with old friends, and that you are seated at the table as each of the now familiar detectives gather for their daily briefings. Cannot wait for the next novel in this fabulous series.

Another very good addition to the Roy Grace series. This one centres around the illegal dog smuggling gangs in the UK. The characterisation is excellent, with some real nasty characters, and dog lovers might find it a difficult read. It's action packed, fast paced and filled with tension. One of my favourites of the series. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

This is simply not to be missed. The research & attention to detail in this novel is second to none. This, along with the intriguing twists make it the best Roy grace novel yet.

Stop Them Dead by Peter James I give this book 4.5. This is book 19 but can easily be read as a standalone. I love Peter James and his Roy Grace series, it is a must read for me personally. The plots are always current and the authors research make me feel like I’m actually reading real life not fiction. The dark crime and the sinister criminals are the main focus but the police teamwork/procedures and the glimpses into life outside the station make this a totally enjoyable and engrossing read. As always there’s a glossary at the end with all the police terminology.The book topic is illegal dog trade and I hope this helps raise awareness.

Roy Grace #19 It’s March 2021 and Tim Ruddle lies awake, he’s a worried man as the farm is not paying and they’ve tried diversifying. When the dogs start barking and he hears the sound of engines coming down their rutted track, the sound getting louder and louder, he becomes very concerned, if not fearful. Two vehicles and several men are here to steal valuable puppies and what ensues is a nightmare scenario. PC Eldhos Matthew, a new Sussex police recruit and just out of his probationary period, is the first responder summoned to Old Holmestead Farm, Balcombe. Detective Superintendent Roy Grace, the Head of Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team is called to the scene and he in turn calls his partner DI Glenn Branson. At the heart of the plot of the latest in this popular series lies an issue that becomes a genuine problem during Covid lockdowns and so has such a ring of authenticity to it. However, that is always a feature of the Roy Grace series and by now his excellent Brighton based team definitely feel like old friends and so it’s always good to catch up with them. Roy is as ever a steady away character, a safe pair of hands and I like how Peter James gives just the right blend of the investigation with the personal. I have always enjoyed following the Roy/Cleo/ children and their progress, Cleo is a great character and perfect for Roy. In this latest instalment we meet some nefarious, unpleasant and ruthless characters and I’m not going to pretend it’s an easy read for dog lovers. The case goes from bad to worse, danger levels rise and we follow one emotional storyline which drives home the reality of the horrific trade/ importation of dogs. It’s always solidly reliable storytelling, the plot is well thought out and the ending is a good one. There is plenty of tension and some suspenseful moments with some good twists. My only reservations are it’s a bit over explained especially at the start and there is some repetition, however, once it gets going this issue fades away. I do have a little titter because as per usual the author gets gait analysis into the plot. - he sure loves that! Overall, another very good and thoughtful addition to an excellent series.