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Dead in the Water

Police Scotland Crime Series, Book 1

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Dead in the Water

By: Ed James
Narrated by: Angus King
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A missing witness. A hidden conspiracy. One hell of a case.

As Acting DC Scott Cullen works with DC Craig Hunter to track down a witness who didn’t show during a court case, they stumble upon another crime–two homeless women, dying of a suspected heroin overdose.

As they investigate, they uncover a far-reaching criminal empire, dealing death and misery to Edinburgh’s underclass. And come across another investigative team who may not be exactly on the same side.

As the case brings two cops together and drives a wedge between another pair, can Cullen and Hunter rescue the witness and bring her assailant to justice?

Dead in the Water is the first book in the Police Scotland crime thriller series of bestselling Scottish crime novels, which will all be released in Audio in 2025.

©2021, 2024 Scott Cullen Ltd (P)2025 Scott Cullen Ltd Crime Crime Fiction Mystery Police Procedurals Scotland Highlander
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All stars
Most relevant
Great story read wonderfully.
Story line was so gripping. Off to listen to the next one 😀

Dead in the water

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Jumps between characters so you need to pay attention. I liked the characters, I have read a few Ed James series and am noticing a slight pattern. Probably why I enjoy them - that and I can listen to Angus King narrate anything.

Another good series from the author

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I finished Dead in the Water with mixed feelings. While the premise had promise, I found parts of the story a little bogged down with unnecessary waffle, which meant it never quite became the gripping page-turner I had hoped for. The pacing occasionally drifted, and I struggled to really connect with many of the characters, who weren’t especially likeable or memorable.

That said, the book was very much rescued by the outstanding performance of Angus King, whose narration brought far more life and atmosphere to the story than the writing alone managed to achieve. His delivery added tension, personality and energy that kept me listening when the plot itself sometimes wandered.

Overall, it was an okay read — entertaining enough in places, but not one that left me eager to immediately rush out and buy the next book in the series.

Angus King's Narration

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Dead in the Water by Ed James is a gripping Scottish crime thriller that follows Acting DC Scott Cullen and DC Craig Hunter as they investigate a chilling case tied to Edinburgh’s criminal underworld. The story is well-paced and engaging, with strong character development and a clever dual timeline structure.

Angus King’s narration is a standout feature — clear, expressive, and perfectly matched to the tone of the story, adding depth and realism to each character.

Verdict: A compelling listen for fans of British detective fiction — well-written and brilliantly performed.

A Taut and Tense Scottish Crime Thriller

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Although I enjoyed it I fell asleep a lot. Bit more humour helps even in life there’s humour!

Not as good as some

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