Unfortunately this book fell a little flat for me. There’s not enough action or buildup to the “twists” that were easily figured out early on. The characters were flat and there was a lot of filler that did not necessarily belong in the story.

Peter Colt’s Cold Island is a dark and haunting entry in his mystery series, one that grips you from the first chapter and doesn’t let go. This installment takes readers into deeply unsettling territory, dealing with the loss of a child and the predatory evil that surrounds such tragedies. While the subject matter may be difficult for some to confront, Colt handles it with a balance of sensitivity and raw honesty, crafting a story that is both disturbing and compelling.

What makes this novel stand out is the steady unraveling of secrets. Every chapter peels back another layer, exposing not only the truth about the central crime but also the hidden complexities of those connected to it. Colt’s prose is sharp and unflinching, capturing both the bleak atmosphere of the setting and the inner struggles of the characters. The tension builds with each revelation, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.

The protagonist’s voice is one of the strongest elements—resolute, driven, and deeply human. You can feel the weight of the investigation pressing down, not just as a professional duty but as something personal and urgent. The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, each with their own motives, flaws, and secrets that add to the web of suspicion and dread.

Though Cold Island tackles dark and uncomfortable themes, it rewards the reader with a powerful, thought-provoking narrative that lingers long after the final page. It’s a reminder of how crime fiction can confront the darkest corners of humanity while still delivering gripping storytelling. Fans of Peter Colt’s series will not be disappointed, and new readers will likely find themselves eager to follow where this author takes the story next.

I didn’t see it coming. Author Peter Colt has crafted his story so expertly that the last several chapters were a complete surprise. It made me want to re-read the earlier pages just to uncover the clues I so clearly missed. COLD ISLAND, the first book in the new Detective Tommy Kelly series, is sure to be a hit. Set on the island of Nantucket, this thirty-five-year-old cold case involving the abduction of little boys is a perfect vehicle to introduce Detective Kelly to an awaiting fan base.

Colt’s crisp, succinct writing style is rounded out with literary-level descriptors, helping the reader experience (see, hear, taste, feel) everything the main character is experiencing. This novel is a slow-burner rather than an adrenaline-rushed page turner, and I appreciated the author’s ability to take this reader on an immersive journey while still providing enough plot twists and turns to keep me wondering what would happen next. Overall, I found this novel highly entertaining and will recommend it to others!