A welcome return for DS Alexandra Cupidi, The Wild Swimmers sees her colleague Jill Ferriter and neighbour Bill South embroiled in a decades-old case that may be linked to Jill's estranged father, while Cupidi investigates the death of a swimmer off the Kent coast. As always, the location is the real draw here - the marshes and windswept beaches of Romney, Dungeness and Hythe are almost another character in the series - and is one of the key ingredients that makes me recommend the series to those who love the Ruth Galloway novels.

The action moves apace and tension mounts as Cupidi's daughter is drawn into the investigation and Bill is the victim of an attempted drowning. If I had one criticism, it's that the book sometimes takes meandering detours which feel like they should become more than they do - reminisces of the second summer of love, when ravers descended on the marshes in the early 1990s, felt like a promising and fascinating diversion but after a couple of mentions, it seemed to just peter out as a plotline.

3.5 stars rounded up to 4 - recommended for fans of Elly Griffiths, Sarah Ward or Peter May.

This story starts with DS Cupidi taking her daughter Zoë with her when she goes on a job to check on a body in the dunes nearby. As there is a piece of sculpture there which is a body, Alex is sure that this will simply be a the usual false alarm that they get from time to time. However it is Zoë that finds an actual dead body. Both of them are left very unsettled by this. As the person was a wild swimmer Zoë is not at all happy when her mother decides to join the group of wild swimmers while investigating the case.

In addition to this thread Bill South has been talking to Jill Ferriter about the man who claims to be Jill's father. He is not that happy about it, preferring peace and quiet these days, however with Alex (Jill's normal confidante) occupied he has little choice. The man who is claiming to be Jill's father is a known career criminal currently in jail for murder. Again reluctantly Bill agrees to find out more.

The book follows these two different threads by initially taking Alex's side of the story and then changing to see Bill's investigations through his eyes. It's fair to say that I am a fan of this series and have read and enjoyed the previous books. There are other good crime novels out there however I do really like the main characters in this series. Alex is very good and here interactions with Zoë (& vice versa) and good. I really like Zoë 's development as a character through this series. Bill, ex cop who has served time in prison - do read book 0 in the series - is also an excellent character for me. Put the three of them together and I will definitely continue reading this series - I would really prefer none of them to be sidelined!

The writing has a good pace and the story is developed well - simply makes for good reading for me. 4.5/5

Cleverly constructed around two storylines, this fifth instalment doesn't disappoint. The first mystery centres around the drowning of a wild swimmer, the second one digs deep into the past of one of the other protagonists. It is unnecessary to explain the plots, just know that they will keep you guessing and only towards the very end do you get some idea as to what is going on. One of this series strengths is its description of the landscape and the way in which it becomes part of the story. If you have read the other ones, you will probably enjoy it more because you have a better idea of how the chatacters relate to one another. A great read for traditional crime fiction fans.

The Wild Swimmers is the fifth book in this wonderful and imaginative series set around Dungeness and Kent.
Between finishing The Trawlerman, number four and starting this one, I had the pleasure of reading a short story set within this series setting, “Prospect Cottage” by William Shaw. His affinity with this area and creative ability to capture its allure and fascination was demonstrated in this short story.

The Wild Swimmers is further evidence of Shaw’s talent and storytelling skill set. I was drawn into the mystery from the very beginning. No shivering bather slowly letting the water creep up one’s costume; more the run, skip, hurdle the waves to dive (belly flop) into the sea.

A great title and an activity that has increasing interest in groups who have found joy, support and companionship in regularly venturing into open water.

This author mixes his stories with varied plots in often fresh and insightful ways. Faithful to his characters he pushes them to their limits and brings the best out of them.

This is a DS Alexandra Cupidi series in essence but the role played here by Bill South is like a melodious group of violins emerging from the orchestra and leading the symphony. A tune you expected but not from the string section.

Alex has her own investigation to pursue, Bill has this unofficial nose around into an old case as well here.

I loved this cameo and the joy it brings Bill to have such an active role is clear to see. His efforts unfold in surprising ways and the charm of the man is evident. He is a favourite character of mine and his journey here makes this a worthwhile read alone.

The author has the ability to dip into modern culture and contemporary issues to cement his writing as relevant and up to date. Wild swimming aside the drug scene is again dealt with convincingly and police corruption once more touched upon.

But it is the humanity and frailty of individuals that stand out for me and undoubtedly these qualities display the hand of this fine and under appreciated writer.

An absolutely wonderful read. I have loved all of William Shaw's novels and this one doesn't disappoint. It was a joy catching up with Alex, Jill, Zoe and Bill once again. Like all the previous novels, this one perfectly captures the magical, mystical atmosphere of beautiful Dungeness. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.

This is the fifth book in the wonderful series featuring DS Alex Cupidi. There are two separate storylines and both are totally gripping. As with all the previous books, it is the characters that make these such an enjoyable read. Bill, in particular, is excellently done. This is a really fast-paced read and highly recommended.

Another compelling installment in one of my favourite crime series. The author combines a truly gripping crime plot with genuine care for his characters, leading to an immersive and rewarding read. I hope this isn't the last we have heard of Alex, Bill and especially Zoe.

I am a great fan of William Shaw's books and this latest read in the Alex Cupidi series is another excellent read. The characterisation is strong in this multi-layered plot and the descriptive passages always transport me right to the Kent coast. I really like Bill and I look forward to seeing where his character goes next in his relationship with Alex. Zoe is coming into herself in this episode and I would like to see more of her. Everything is neatly wrapped up at the end, with a tiny cliffhanger to keep me intrigued for the next in the series! I highly recommend the series to lovers of crime thrillers. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

I can't quite explain it but there's something deeply comforting when you pick up a William Shaw DS Alex Cupidi book. I've read them all and I love the characters. They feel so real they could almost be my friends. I'm particularly pleased we hear from Bill South in this story. William Shaw recently wrote an article about having Aphantasia, which means he has little or no mental imagery in his head. You wouldn't think that though from his wonderful descriptions that conjure up movie scenes in my mind.

After taking time out to deal with PTSD, DS Alex Cupidi is about to start back at work. Since she lives closest to a reported sighting of a body in the sea, she's asked to go and look. Taking her nineteen-year-old daughter Zoe with her, Alex goes one way and Zoe goes the other. Unfortunately it's Zoe who finds a female dead swimmer in the water. It's the start of a perplexing manhunt as the police attempt to find the ex-boyfriend of the victim.

In the past, Alex has gone out all guns blazing in hunting down suspects but after her own traumatic experiences and now Zoe's, we have a more mindful Alex this time. Having said that, there are times when she misreads the signs and puts herself in danger unwittingly! But overall, we have a calmer, more settled Alex. And I really hope there's more to come.

I have been a fan of William Shaw since I read The Birdwatcher and this novel.is fifth in the detective Cupidi series. The characters are well rounded and the bleak landscape plays a powerful, integral part in the weaving of the narrative. There are two stories, both of which play out to a satisfying conclusion. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc.

This is the latest in a favourite crime series by William Shaw, set in the beautiful and atmospheric location of Dungeness and the Kent coast, featuring DS Alex Cupidi. To my delight, this sees a bigger role for ex-copper and birdwatcher, Bill South, who I have a real soft spot for, he gets dragged reluctantly into an old cold case by Jill Ferriter, who on learning who her father is, finds herself mired in a emotional quagmire, leaving her with a desperate desire to know more about him. However, Bill, who connects with an old and familiar figure, the now dying ex-DI Tart, and his wife, Jenn, soon feels a welcome sense of comfort to once again be investigating, but it is to lead him into deeply dangerous waters.

Jill's messy and chaotic private life ensures she cannot communicate with her close friend and colleague, Alex. Alex is to rue her decision to have Zoe accompany her when a body is reported to be on the beach, she thinks it's a false alarm, only to have a traumatised daughter on her hands, after Zoe comes across the drowned dead body of Mimi Greene. The victim is one of a group of regular wild swimmers, women that include poet Isobel, married to Victor, the young gay Rose with her mental health issues, and the bored but wealthy Kimaya. Under her boss, DI Toby McAdam, Alex works with PC Charlie Reed, on a complex case, that includes the frustrations of trying to locate Mimi's cheating ex-boyfriend, Malcolm.

Once again Shaw showcases here his ability to write 2 well plotted and twisted mysteries, both of which I was gripped by, especially with their escalating levels of tension and suspense. There is a strong cast of familiar characters who generate a great sense of comfort as I become reacquainted with their lives. What I am hoping is that the author continues with giving a greater role to Bill, it would be such a waste if he is to revert to occupying a minor role. If you are a crime and mystery fan, I would strongly urge to try this wonderful series. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.

I used to live on Romney Marsh and, as a pretentious teen, would cycle to Dungeness to write horrifically bad poetry in the shadow of the nuclear power station. So I get a particular joy out of the geography of Shaw's Cupidi books as the characters travel through villages and towns I once called home. And the Marsh is the perfect setting for a series, atmospheric, eerie, the sea always looking to reclaim its land.

DCI Alexandra Cupidi has recovered from the traumatic events of the last book and has returned to work, to find herself immediately investigating a murder case that is far too close to home, her daughter Zoe discovering the body. To make matters worse, her sidekick and friend Jill has a possible connection to the case and therefore can't communicate with the investigating team until it's solved. This is also a blow for Jill who has discovered some disturbing personal news and really needs her friend right now. Instead she turns to Alex's neighbou Bill, a disgraced former PC who agrees to help her. Doing so reawakens some of his old policing instincts, but also long buried secrets that some people will do anything keep buried...

The charm in Shaw's series lies in the clever plotting, the beautifully realised settings and a great cast of characters who I look forward to meeting in every new book. The Wild Swimmers is a taut, twisty and unputtdownable new installment. Highly recommended.

I always enjoy William Shaw's work and have been eagerly anticipating this next one in the Alex Cupidi series. While every book has a stand alone plot its also great to catch up with the cast of characters and see how their lives are developing. In this book as well as Alex and her daughter Zoe there are significant plot lines for Jill Ferriter and William South.
This book's main plot revolves around the body of a woman who has washed up at Dungeness, not far from where Alex and Zoe live. Alex has to investigate without Jill, however, as she has a connection with a possible suspect. Things get more complicated for Jill - not only is she sidelined from work, but we also learn alot more about her past as a man gets in touch claiming to be her father.
This is the start of a second story arc which cleverly weaves in and out of the main investigation, dragging William into danger.
Overall, this is another great book, with a compelling and original plot and sub plot. Well worth a read.

When Alexandra Cupidi’s daughter, Zoe, discovers a body on the beach near their home she is traumatised by the event. Whilst DS Cupidi must investigate the potential crime she also seeks to reassure Zoe of her safety in the area of the country they have both come to love. Zoe seeks out Bill who lives in a shack near them. He’s always been a rock to her as she grew up but Bill has problems of his own. Alex’s close friend Jill denied the chance to ask Alex turns to him to investigate some disturbing news of her own.
Alex is no nearer finding the murderer when events take a shocking turn. Her family and her friends are exposed to a killer who won’t stop to protect themselves.
A welcome return for this detective and once again it proves to be a compulsive read. Shaw is excellent at evoking a sense of place and peopling his books with characters who you feel attached to. I loved the way it all comes together and never feel like there are any loose ends. It’s another 5 star performance from William Shaw. I absolutely love this series which continues to entertain and enthral from the safety of your armchair.

I’ve not read the previous books in this series but I will certainly go back and do so after having read Wild Swimmers.
I love crime fiction and this book was a great addition to the list. The characters are interesting and multi-layered. The plot was good and not overly complicated. There are a few bits where you have to suspend your disbelief as always with these books but nothing outrageous. Overall a great read.

Wild Swimmers by William Shaw is book 5 in the DS Alex Cupidi series. I have read all of these so far and was delighted to receive this one pre publication for review. I enjoy his descriptions of Dungeness, an area I know very little about living as I do in Northumberland. Shaw makes the area very appealing and makes me want to visit. Alex's relationship with her daughter Zoe always makes me laugh as well. Try as she might she can never get it right but she doesn't stop trying. Somewhat unusually for male authors William Shaw's female characters are very believably written. A thoroughly enjoyable read. Well plotted with plenty of twists and red herrings. Recommended as read alone or as a series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

DS Alexandra Cupidi #5
A report comes in of a dead body at Pen Bars, a shingle spit on the south side of Dungeness which Alex fully expects to be the concrete man abandoned there in the 1990’s and nothing more sinister. Sadly, she’s wrong as it’s the body of a female swimmer which is discovered on the shoreline. This is the start of a difficult and perplexing case that appears to be linked to an online dating app, a group of female wild swimmers and someone from DC Jill Ferriter’s past. For the latter, Jill relies on the help and support of ex-policeman Bill South, a friend and neighbour of Alex, who tries to uncover potentially uncomfortable truths with disastrous consequences.

I like this series and the characters in it and yet again William Shaw has set his readers an intriguing and entertaining puzzle to try to figure out. It’s a multilayered plot and for a long time it’s hard to see how the different strands will conjoin but they do, and do so well. The plot is really interesting and immersive, it’s fast paced and full of well crafted characters who contribute to the storyline with varying degrees of truthfulness. It’s a tricky investigation with several dead ends but it ignites in places and how. It’s full of twists and there are several suspenseful cliffhanger chapter endings where breathe is held and fingers crossed for a positive outcome.

I love the settings and as some are familiar to me that always makes me further invested in the storytelling. The Folkestone area, Hythe, Romney Marshes and Dungeness and so on are described so well that it evokes a strong atmosphere to accompany a good plot. I love the wild swimmers element from Hythe which I’ve seen for myself but rather them that me!

Overall, an entertaining and gripping page turner that holds my attention throughout. Hope there’s more of Alex et al to come.

With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Quercus Books, riverrun for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.

Dungeness....where the Wild West meet the post-apocalyptic. Alex Cupidi, the books main character, lives here. It lays claim to a famous nuclear power station, a haunting flatness of shingle beach meets the sea, there are two lighthouses, old train carriages are turned into little cottages, and the most spectacular nature reserve is home to a third of Britain's plant species. William Shaw brings the Thames Estuary and the continued span of Kent coastline to life in the five books in the Alex Cupidi series. The Wild Swimmers is his latest. It can be read as a stand alone story, but be prepared to be drawn in and want to read the them all.
This is crime fiction with a heart. You find yourself invested in the characters, as if they were old friends. Finding yourself caring about their life stories, as much as wanting to know 'who's done it?'
Strong female storylines are always a plus for me. I have a particular soft spot for Cupidi's sidekick Jill.
If you are a fan of audio books then the narrator of all in this series is Jasmine Blackborow. She truly brings the characters to life, and creates a new level of enjoyment to story telling and listening.
In my opinion The Wild Swimmers has been the best yet.......

The Wild Swimmers is the latest book in William Shaw's Alex Cupidi series,a firm favourite of mine,set in the unique and atmospheric area of Kent's Romney Marsh.
The story begins with a bit of bad parenting on Cupidi's behalf that leads to daughter Zoe finding a dead body on the beach, something that traumatises the already delicate young woman.
The woman is identified by Cupidi's friend and colleague Jill Ferriter in circumstances that ironically have her taken off of the case just as Cupidi it's the first one since her return to active duty................and Jill's problems don't end there. With Ferriter persona non grata at the police station she turns to Cupidi's neighbour,retired cop Bill South, to investigate something involving both their pasts.

This is the best book so far in this series, both storylines are intriguing and there are some interesting twists to keep readers on their toes. Jill Ferriter is involved in both , she plays a much bigger part than in previous books,and I particularly enjoyed Bill South's journey into a past it seems he's very unwise not have left alone.

Not least interesting is the location and if you don't know Romney Marsh,in particular Dungeness where Alex,Zoe and Bill live,it's well-worth hitting your favourite search engine to learn a bit more,a truly fascinating place.

An excellent book that can be read as a standalone but far better to read the previous 4 in the series.......and the prequel,"The Birdwatcher".

I would have preordered this book if I hadn't been gifted from NetGalley. I have read all William Shaw's Cupidi books, including the prequel.  

Initially, I was attracted to the books because they were written where I grew up. But that would have only gone so far. I read them now because they are brilliantly written crime novels. The Wild Swimmers is no exception to this; in fact, it is one of the best. 

Most books are made on their first lines, and this one sets the scene perfectly for what is to come. 'It came down to a choice between two directions, north or south.' The body is that of a young swimmer. Was she murdered, did she commit suicide, or was this a tragic accident?

This is the first story throughout the book to a well-thought-out ending. Although the clues were throughout the story, I didn't guess the killer. The second story that runs through is the private life of Cupidi's friend, Jill Ferriter. My favourite character, William South, investigates this additional story.

Part Two of the book changed voices, which I believe I am right in saying hasn't happened before in this series. I loved this aspect as it was told from the perspective of South. The prequel to this series, Birdwatcher, is also his story and one of my favourites.

The two stories combine perfectly to bring about a satisfying conclusion. Some would describe this as a cosy crime, but I don't think that does it justice. Shaw relies on his brilliant storytelling and unforgettable characters to tell an enthralling crime story that doesn't need blood and gore to entertain.

If the mark of a good book is one you can't put down, then I didn't stop reading this until 1 am. I read the whole book in one sitting, it is enthralling. Preorder this today if you like crime set in a beautiful landscape with fantastic characters. Until it is released, spend your time reading the first four.

Now, thanks to William Shaw, I need to go and wander in the shingle to look for a concrete man I never knew existed, even though I have lived in the area for nearly 50 years. Read the book, and you will understand.