"Outstanding. McCarthy delivers a startling ending and perfectly blends the whodunit plot with Harry’s struggles with his addiction and his relationship with Frankie."

– Publishers Weekly (starred)

"McCarthy has created humane, fallible characters—notably Kent and Noble, who struggle with addictions—as he spins a taut plot that’s part police procedural, part medical thriller. An unbeatable combination for what’s shaping up as a winning series."

– Booklist (starred)

"This second entry in an excellent medical thriller/police procedural series fulfills the promise of the first volume. Fast-paced with an unexpected ending, this novel has everything fans of the genre could want."

– Library Journal

"Delivers its gruesome details in the authentic voice of the medical student McCarthy happens to be. Presented with jarring realism and zero sentimentality."

– New York Times Book Review

"An accomplished first novel. McCarthy provides a fascinating look at the sociology of crime and policing."

– Publishers Weekly

"Dr. Harry Kent, the protagonist of English author (and medical student) Rob McCarthy’s A Handful of Ashes, takes his job as a medical examiner with London’s Metropolitan Police very much to heart. With the gifted Mr. McCarthy in charge, the prognosis is guardedly optimistic."

– Wall Street Journal

"The Hollow Men is gritty and intense; it’s complex and explosive. The characters in this debut are exemplary and McCarthy is unquestioningly a writer to watch."

– Shelf Awareness

"A perfect mix of detective novel and medical drama. The grit and level of detail presented in [McCarthy’s] narratives shape the foundation of good story and his character development effort is admirable. McCarthy is a new voice to watch and this title makes a good companion for fans of medical thrillers."

– Mystery Tribune

"This fast-paced mix of medical thriller and crime novel keeps readers guessing until the surprising finale."

– Library Journal