The Man Next Door- Blog Tour

 

Author: E.M. Scott 

Publisher: No Exit Press 

Publishing Date: 20th November 2025

Many thanks to the publishing team and Random Things Tour for my copy of the book and a spot on the tour

Blurb 

Retired police detective inspector Thomas Maitland has rented a house in Cornwall; he's going to paint his way to recovery from the experiences of the spring. A local woman with an intriguingly expensive collection of modern art wants to put on a show of his work.

But Maitland's next door neighbour, also his landlord, is unsettling, and when he finds his benefactor dead at the bottom of her garden, Thomas Maitland feels death casting its net over him again.

My Thoughts 

This is the second book in the series, but it reads perfectly well as a standalone. The author gives just enough background for new readers without ever slowing the pace. We follow retired inspector Thomas, who you’d think is finally enjoying the quieter side of life—routine days, familiar faces, and the comfort of having stepped away from the pressures of police work. But everything changes when he discovers his landlord dead under suspicious circumstances.

Thomas’s instincts immediately kick back in. Despite being officially retired, he simply can’t walk away or trust that others will piece the truth together properly. His return to investigative work feels natural, almost inevitable, and it adds a compelling layer to his character: a man torn between wanting peace and needing purpose.

The plot is well-constructed with believable details, from the investigative procedures to the personal dynamics between characters. Nothing feels forced or exaggerated, which gives the story a grounded, authentic quality. As clues surface and secrets unravel, the pacing remains steady, keeping you invested without ever feeling rushed.

Character development is a real strength. The supporting cast is introduced gradually, making it easy to keep track of everyone. As the investigation deepens, we gain a clearer understanding of each character’s history, motivations, and connections to the case. Thomas, in particular, grows more intriguing as we learn how his past career influences his current decisions.

The book does explore some darker themes, adding weight to the mystery without overwhelming the story. These undertones help sustain suspense and keep you turning pages as the truth slowly comes to light.

Overall, this is a thoroughly enjoyable crime mystery with an engaging protagonist, vivid setting, and a twisty, believable plot.