A compelling crime novel by John Harvey, first published in 1989. It is the sixth novel in the acclaimed Charlie Resnick series, featuring Detective Inspector Charlie Resnick. Known for its realistic police work and richly developed characters, the novel is a standout example of British police procedural fiction.

Set in Nottingham, the story opens with the discovery of a young woman's body in a deserted area. As Resnick and his team investigate, what initially appears to be a routine murder case gradually reveals connections to organized crime, prostitution, drugs, and political corruption.

The investigation is painstaking and realistic, with Resnick relying on patient interviews, forensic evidence, and careful analysis rather than dramatic action. As new victims emerge and hidden relationships come to light, the detectives must untangle a complex web of violence and betrayal while confronting the emotional toll that such cases take on both investigators and victims' families.

Alongside the mystery, Harvey explores Resnick's personal life, his love of jazz, food, and quiet reflection, adding emotional depth to a protagonist who is thoughtful, compassionate, and deeply human. The novel balances procedural detail with literary quality, making it much more than a conventional detective story.

Rather than emphasizing spectacular twists or action sequences, Now's the Time focuses on authenticity, character psychology, and the social realities of late-1980s Britain. It is an intelligent, atmospheric crime novel that rewards readers who appreciate meticulous investigations and nuanced storytelling.