I received a free copy of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review.

I was so excited to see this available to request on NetGalley.  I really love the Vera series and was really looking forward to a new series and The Long Call with Detective Matthew Venn does not disappoint.   Detective Venn has moved back to Devon as he has recently married Jonathon, but the area holds many memories for him as he grew up there within a strict religious order.  He has been estranged from his family since renouncing his faith and his same sex marriage means he won’t be welcomed back anytime soon. Detective Venn’s team includes Jen, a sharp minded single mum of teens detective, and Ross, pretty much a Dude-bro type character who grows on you as he appears more vulnerable as the book progresses.

The case starts with a body on a beach.  The more that is uncovered about the man, the more questions that are raised.  As Detective Venn and his team work on the murder, the case gets  complicated as further crimes are committed.  Themes of religious extremism, guilt, redemption, abuse, and love, especially parental, are all woven into the plot. Well paced mystery, great writing, with a whole new cast of engaging characters.  I can’t wait to read the next one in this new series!