Where Bruen really scores is in his intimate explorations of Taylor's character, Galway City and of modern Ireland. Using language like a weapon, his humour stops the reader drowning in rain, Jameson's and self-pity. Less a whodunit that a what-to-do-about-it, this is a compelling portrait of a haunted man.

Bruen's writing is as bleak and spare as Taylor's take on modern Ireland, but you'll end up hooked on this series of home-grown, gritty crime stories as Jack Taylor is on Ireland.

I cannot recommend this series highly enough - if you like stark reality, if you can handle one man making his own decisions about his life ... then do yourself a favour and read Cross.

Vintage Ken Bruen. Clipped prose and mordant humour are coupled to a plot that's just about as violent as anything he has ever written. Bruen has the uncanny ability to describe the most touching of moments with heart-rending effectiveness and lyrical beauty.

Ken Bruen is one of Ireland's leading crime writers...this is snappy, knowing writing.

A creepy and entertaining story full of perfectly written characters. A definite recommendation

This is an edgy, compelling read-more unnerving than scary-that will slide its hooks deep inside and throttle you more than a few times before it's all over

A blend of creepy literary horror and taut psychological thriller

Sinister, edgy and with a hold that doesn't let up

Best read as an authentic, full-blooded, old-fashioned ghost story...genuinely eerie... will have you staying up late

Winslow is a sensational writer ... Won't disappoint under any circumstances

Action sequences that put your heart into your mouth ... Vegas nights, floating orgies, shakedowns and shootings galore all feature in this superb novel ... The ending will blow you away