This is one of John Harvey's best novels, which means it's one of the best, full stop.

Harvey's fleshed-out characters and sure grasp of the complex emotional underpinnings of society generally, and individuals in particular, make him a favourite among crime writers and readers alike

All Harvey's usual virtues - strong minor characters, likeable, three-dimensional cops, adroit handling of a complex plot and large cast - are in evidence

A taut tale exploring the themes of child abduction, abuse and bereavement... [the] understated narrative is elegant and effortlessly gripping

The architecture of Harvey's storytelling begs to be admired, with its multiple narratives, shifting time lines and elaborate plot details. But it's his handling of difficult characters and provocative themes that gives the book weight. All the adults in this story love children, some selflessly and others in ways that make your skin crawl, and they all react differently when the children they love are taken away from them. Harvey's touch is so subtle, his style so seductive, the he distracts us from the fact that Ruth isn't the only person whose choices are determined, or tragically derailed, by love for a child - even if it's someone else's child

Harvey is a master craftsman

Impassioned, at times heartbreaking story … confirms Harvey as one of our most accomplished writers in any genre

This series places Indridason at the centre of the best of contemporary crime fiction. He is a master storyteller, and has a real gift for evoking the complex humanity at the heart of the most dour-seeming individuals.

Most people will find The Daughter Of Time as interesting and enjoyable a book as they will meet in a month of Sundays

A detective story with a very considerable difference. Ingenious, stimulating and very enjoyable

Josephine Tey has always been absolutely reliable in producing original and mysterious plots with interesting characters and unguessable endings