The plot features Peter Ash, a military veteran with a murky past. His girlfriend sends him off to help protect a close friend of hers and her daughter. This leads Ash into violent contact with a mysterious organisation seemingly preparing for the end of civilisation as we know it.

Despite having to suspend belief at some points, and having to endure rather too much of The Messenger’s pronouncements, I really enjoyed this book. It kept me turning the pages and what more can you ask for?

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of The Dark Time by Nick Petrie.

I have read a lot of Nick Petrie’s books and this series just keeps getting better. Slipping back into Peter Ash’s world felt completely effortless and immensely satisfying. Peter remains a compelling lead, driven by a strong moral compass, while the familiar cast of side characters add warmth, humour and real depth. They now feel like an established team rather than supporting players, which gives the story real emotional weight.

The plot is tightly paced and tense, balancing action with character development in a way Petrie does so well. There is a confidence to the storytelling that comes from a series hitting its stride, and I was fully invested from start to finish.

A gripping, assured thriller that rewards long term readers while still feeling fresh and urgent. One of the strongest entries yet and an easy five star read.