A review by momobookdiary
A Body on the Flats by Max Manning, Max Manning

5.0

A Body on the Flats by Max Manning is the first book in the Kane and Granger Thriller series, and from the very first page, I was hooked. Although I read this right after Murder Under the Pier, I didn’t feel like I was missing anything by reading out of order—each book stands strong on its own, yet there’s a shared intensity between them that makes reading both a thrilling experience. 

One of the most striking aspects of Manning’s writing, especially after reading the second book first, is how he handles the revelation of the killer. In A Body on the Flats, the identity of the killer is revealed earlier than you might expect, which initially threw me off when I first encountered it in the second book. At that time, I thought I had just guessed the killer too early. However, reading A Body on the Flats first made me realize that this is a deliberate choice by Manning—he shows his hand earlier to shift the focus from who did it to why and how it happened. It gives the story a different feel and adds layers of suspense that aren’t just tied to the mystery of the culprit, but to the psychological and emotional complexity of the investigation. It’s a brilliant storytelling technique that allows the reader to dive deeper into the narrative and feel the weight of the case in a more profound way. 

As always, Manning’s scene-setting is impeccable. The Southend coastline, bleak and windswept, becomes a living, breathing backdrop to the investigation. His vivid descriptions draw you into this desolate landscape in such a way that you feel the cold, the isolation, and the tension hanging in the air. The environment doesn’t just set the scene; it enhances the mood and adds a haunting dimension to the entire narrative. 

Equally compelling is the relationship between Detective Edison Kane and his new partner, Granger. From the moment they meet, their partnership feels authentic. There’s a natural understanding between them, a mutual respect that forms the backbone of their dynamic. The way Manning weaves their personal struggles into the investigation makes them feel like real people, not just characters in a story. I found myself invested not just in solving the case, but in how their partnership would evolve. 

The pacing of the book is expertly done. The reveals are timed perfectly, and even though we know who the killer is earlier than expected, the narrative never loses momentum. I couldn’t put the book down, turning page after page, eager to understand the complexities of the case and to see how the detectives would ultimately bring things to a close. 

In the end, A Body on the Flats is a dark, gripping, and immersive thriller that stands out for its unique narrative structure and compelling characters. Max Manning’s ability to build tension and draw readers in is unmatched. This is a fantastic start to the series, and I’m already looking forward to the next chapter in Kane and Granger’s journey. 

Highly recommended for fans of thrillers with depth and unexpected twists!