A review by sams_fireside
The Dark Web Murders by Brian O'Hare

5.0

he Dark Web Murders details a series of killings by someone who, it is evident from the outset, is some sort of psychopath. There are a wide variety of characters in the book, and you need to be on your toes to remind yourself who they are and what relevance they have to the story, as the author takes the reader on the incredibly descriptive journey, whilst Chief Inspector Jim Sheehan and his Serious Crimes Unit set out to identify the killer.

The author’s descriptive writing entices you further and further into the story, and much of it is extremely dark, with each killing outlined in minute detail by the killer, as he writes his blog on the dark web for his loyal followers to read and enjoy. There is a side story alongside the killings which becomes linked with the main story as the book progresses, and this too is explained in great and disturbing detail by the author.

As in O’Hare’s other Sheehan mysteries, as the story continues, the author’s descriptive style guides us through the Belfast police procedure, and therefore most things that you think you may not understand become clear. The author is from Northern Ireland and some US readers may find certain police terminology confusing. The author has thoughtfully provided a glossary of acronyms which are commonplace in police forces in the UK, for guidance.

The thing that I enjoyed most about this book was how O’Hare was so descriptive in his writings. I enjoyed the graphic detail, although sometimes I shuddered as I tried to imagine some of the things that were described. The crime is complex, and careful readers will notice the clues and try to solve the mystery alongside the Chief Inspector’s team.

There really wasn’t anything I disliked about the book and I can’t wait to read more of Brian O’Hare’s novels.

I was unsure whether such a thing as ‘The Dark Web’ existed or whether it was simply part of the story, so I must admit that I did Google it, only to find out that it is definitely a real thing. I didn’t delve too much into anything as I didn’t want the police to come knocking on my door!

I think the book would appeal to readers who enjoy a gritty crime novel but should know that there are certain things contained within the book that might disturb some people and is definitely not for younger readers.