When an explosion occurs at a remote farm in Cádiz province, DI Leon Prado and his team of volunteer translators are drawn into Gibraltar's labyrinth of historic tunnels to investigate. In the Stay Behind Cave built for Operation Tracer during WWII, they uncover evidence of an old conspiracy that could sabotage Gibraltar’s new relationship with the EU. Amid mounting political pressure and personal danger, the fate of the Rock hangs in the balance as they race against time to expose the deception at its heart.
“Darkness in Gibraltar” is the sixth instalment in Paul S Bradley’s award-winning Andalusian Mystery Series, a collection of captivating thrillers set against the evocative backdrop of Southern Spain’s historical cities and breathtaking landscapes.
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Prelaunch Printed Books available from 7th November in Gibraltar at
Gibraltar Heritage Trust 12 John Mackintosh Square
BookGem 312 Main Street, Ince's Hall
In Nerja at
Smiffs, Calle Almirante Ferrandiz
Libreria Europa Calle Diputacion, 4
Review from Booklife
The captivating sixth book in Bradley’s Andalusian mystery series centers on an explosion at a secluded farm in San Pablo de Buceite that kills three people: farm owner Christopher Nash, his daughter Christine, and Gibraltar police officer Alex Chilcott. Detective Inspector Leon Prado of the Spanish National Police, aided by translators Phillip and Amanda Armitage, investigates the murders, uncovering connections to Gibraltar’s wartime history, a smuggling network—and possible evidence of a conspiracy that could have far-reaching modern consequences. Set against the backdrop of Gibraltar’s complex political landscape, the case intertwines past and present, revealing hidden motives and long-buried secrets.
Bradley’s detailed, snappy prose complements Prado’s multifaceted investigative approach, which combines meticulous observation and collaboration. He demonstrates resourcefulness by using a periscope in the farm’s hidden safe room to monitor a drone attack, while the team relies on forensic analysis such as DNA testing to confirm familial connections. Phillip and Amanda help Prado translate key documents and interrogate witnesses, bridging cultural and linguistic gaps that otherwise might have tanked their case. Readers will appreciate how the resourceful team uses these fact-finding methods to piece together clues across borders.
Prado’s dedication to his craft emerges early, as his stoic demeanor contrasts with his chaotic thoughts: “Regardless of his calm exterior, the man’s heart raced.” This duality underscores his professionalism and inner drive. Other characters reveal depth through subtle moments, with Amanda demonstrating empathy and Phillip loyalty that prove essential to their investigation. Throughout the story, Bradley deftly balances action and exposition. A key chase scene injects urgency, contrasting with quieter moments of reflection, such as Prado’s musings on Gibraltar’s culture. This rhythm will keep readers engaged as the narrative moves between high-stakes drama and thoughtful character exploration. Ultimately, this succeeds as a layered mystery with vivid settings, nuanced characters, and a compelling storyline that intertwines historical intrigue with contemporary stakes.
Takeaway: This smart Spain-set mystery deftly balances action and sleuthing.
Comparable Titles: M.H. Eccleston’s Death Comes to the Costa del Sol, P.J. Fox’s Death in the Sun.
Production grades
Cover: B
Design and typography: A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-
Operation Tracer Reimagined
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