Dark is the Grave is a Scottish crime thriller, the first in the DCI Bone series.   The book fits the billing – a thriller with many twists and turns, a crime unit working to find the killer, a damaged detective with his own demons, police-politics to manage, and a climax at the end.    But, it felt like one long cliche after another.    If the plot is similar to many other detective shows and books, then what can set it apart is believable and interesting dialogue, quirky and interesting characters, deep dives into personal narratives and an unfolding of secrets, well established motives, and a deft painting of local color and history.    Unfortunately, very little of those added elements are found in this book.   It is thriller-driven, another one hour procedural crime show, but in print.   Recommended only as a  quick read in the airport or a similar spot.    There is too much good literature out there to invest your time in othewise. 3.0 out of 5.0 stars3.0