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The Yorkshire Murders #3
The Crying Cave Killings
A murdered child. A case from the past. A detective inspector with nothing to lose…
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past any way he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets in deeper than he ever imagined…especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn’t believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he’s off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name. Because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
Riddick's certain he didn’t kill the kid in the cave. But he also remembers another case, twenty years ago, with shocking similarities…which means someone is trying to trap Riddick.
Can Riddick uncover the truth, or will this be the case that finally destroys him once and for all?
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past any way he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets in deeper than he ever imagined…especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn’t believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he’s off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name. Because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
Riddick's certain he didn’t kill the kid in the cave. But he also remembers another case, twenty years ago, with shocking similarities…which means someone is trying to trap Riddick.
Can Riddick uncover the truth, or will this be the case that finally destroys him once and for all?
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2023
316 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
About the author
Wes Markin
34 books235 followersBe sure to follow Wes on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/3tFWIHL
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
July 19, 2023
The Yorkshire Murders #3
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past anyway he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets deeper than he ever imagines.... especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn't believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he's off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
This is the first book in the series that I've read. This is a descriptively written, fast paced page turner. I was hooked after reading a few pages. The characters are well developed. There are lots of threads to this story which are all tied up by the end. The tension and suspense build throughout. Even though Riddick has been suspended from investigating the case of the murdered boy, he continues to undertake his own investigation. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #WesMarkin for my ARC of #TheCryingCoveKillings in exchange for an honest review.
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past anyway he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets deeper than he ever imagines.... especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn't believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he's off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
This is the first book in the series that I've read. This is a descriptively written, fast paced page turner. I was hooked after reading a few pages. The characters are well developed. There are lots of threads to this story which are all tied up by the end. The tension and suspense build throughout. Even though Riddick has been suspended from investigating the case of the murdered boy, he continues to undertake his own investigation. This book can be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #WesMarkin for my ARC of #TheCryingCoveKillings in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2023
2.5 / 5
Honestly, having read the last two books I had high hopes for this book building upon the aftermath of book 2. Unfortunately the same themes, a similar plot and Wes’s obsession to have CSA/ SA as the main theme of the book. The same as the last two books. Infact to make it more worse, the two main leads are separated so we don’t see the infamous duo working together. Feels like there is no character development between Riddick and Gardner, and instead seems like a sob story of all of Riddicks issues.
We see the return of Gardner again, Riddick unconscious wakes to find a 15 year old child dead near a cave. Riddick is adamant that this is linked to a case 20 years again when he was starting out when a child is found dead at Mother Shiptons cave. Riddick is forced to take leave due to his state, and Gardener is forced to tackle this without Paul.
Honestly, the main thing I would say if you were to read this book is to be prepared for the repetition of the same plot from book 2 to be found in book 3. Infact I’m quite sure my last review on the book was disappointed the same theme was used. Again we are using the same underlying theme, no different to the last two books. Be prepared for nothing different. Same stuff again and again. Nothing new brought to the table. The direction the book is going in the opposite of positive. I don’t understand the intentions or the longevity of this series. No development in character, no true ‘murder’. I think Markins needs to go back to the drawing board, it’s almost like this is book 2 version 2 instead of book 3. Disappointed is a understatement for this book. High potential but every book after the first book is a disappointment. It’s like getting your brothers’ used sock as a present. I highly recommend not to invest time in this series, disappointment is the new normal when reading this series. Probably one of the worst series I’ve read in history to ready any book. The thing that annoys me is how close to home this book is set at, which I will always remember. Usually you always remember the shitters.
Honestly, having read the last two books I had high hopes for this book building upon the aftermath of book 2. Unfortunately the same themes, a similar plot and Wes’s obsession to have CSA/ SA as the main theme of the book. The same as the last two books. Infact to make it more worse, the two main leads are separated so we don’t see the infamous duo working together. Feels like there is no character development between Riddick and Gardner, and instead seems like a sob story of all of Riddicks issues.
We see the return of Gardner again, Riddick unconscious wakes to find a 15 year old child dead near a cave. Riddick is adamant that this is linked to a case 20 years again when he was starting out when a child is found dead at Mother Shiptons cave. Riddick is forced to take leave due to his state, and Gardener is forced to tackle this without Paul.
Honestly, the main thing I would say if you were to read this book is to be prepared for the repetition of the same plot from book 2 to be found in book 3. Infact I’m quite sure my last review on the book was disappointed the same theme was used. Again we are using the same underlying theme, no different to the last two books. Be prepared for nothing different. Same stuff again and again. Nothing new brought to the table. The direction the book is going in the opposite of positive. I don’t understand the intentions or the longevity of this series. No development in character, no true ‘murder’. I think Markins needs to go back to the drawing board, it’s almost like this is book 2 version 2 instead of book 3. Disappointed is a understatement for this book. High potential but every book after the first book is a disappointment. It’s like getting your brothers’ used sock as a present. I highly recommend not to invest time in this series, disappointment is the new normal when reading this series. Probably one of the worst series I’ve read in history to ready any book. The thing that annoys me is how close to home this book is set at, which I will always remember. Usually you always remember the shitters.
July 9, 2023
Absorbing police procedural.
Got to admit it took me a while to come to grips with this Yorkshire mystery. The past keeps intruding on the present (legitimately so) as the situation is set up, and for a while it’s chaos. DI Paul Riddick is a confused, complex character with the past bleeding into the now.
Twenty years ago a teenage boy is found dead at Mother Shipton’s Cave, beneath the Petrifying Well. A petrified bear is missing from the scene. The murderer is apprehended but Riddock always had doubts
Now another teenage boy is found dead in the same cave with a soft toy teddy bear in his backpack.
Riddick (now on leave) draws lines no one else does. He’s damaged, compulsive, intuitive and often out of control.
The conclusion is complicated, messy, unexpected, and I loved it!
Just how many lives does Riddick have? As many as a cat it seems, even if his landings are way past his ken.
I didn’t realize this is part of a series so obviously you can read it as a stand alone. Perhaps the earlier titles would give more background into the threads that weave throughout, but I was happy with the chaos.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Got to admit it took me a while to come to grips with this Yorkshire mystery. The past keeps intruding on the present (legitimately so) as the situation is set up, and for a while it’s chaos. DI Paul Riddick is a confused, complex character with the past bleeding into the now.
Twenty years ago a teenage boy is found dead at Mother Shipton’s Cave, beneath the Petrifying Well. A petrified bear is missing from the scene. The murderer is apprehended but Riddock always had doubts
Now another teenage boy is found dead in the same cave with a soft toy teddy bear in his backpack.
Riddick (now on leave) draws lines no one else does. He’s damaged, compulsive, intuitive and often out of control.
The conclusion is complicated, messy, unexpected, and I loved it!
Just how many lives does Riddick have? As many as a cat it seems, even if his landings are way past his ken.
I didn’t realize this is part of a series so obviously you can read it as a stand alone. Perhaps the earlier titles would give more background into the threads that weave throughout, but I was happy with the chaos.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
July 21, 2023
This is the third in the series and it works as a standalone. However I think it's better read in series order to give you an idea of just how troubled Paul Riddick is. The story flits between the current day and past events and it looks like history is repeating itself when the body of a young boy is discovered in a cave. Unfortunately Riddick is lying beside him. To make matters worse, his memory has gone in relation to certain parts of the night's events so he is off the case while the team investigate. When other kids go missing, Emma and the team have their work cut out for them.
Aside from the dead and missing boys, the story is mainly focussed on Riddick and his ongoing torment as well as his determination to right past wrongs. Emma has personal stuff also going on at home. It's a sad story overall and I found myself reading in anguish more than anything while also rooting for Milo. The ending makes me wonder what next for Emma and Paul and I want to find out now!
Aside from the dead and missing boys, the story is mainly focussed on Riddick and his ongoing torment as well as his determination to right past wrongs. Emma has personal stuff also going on at home. It's a sad story overall and I found myself reading in anguish more than anything while also rooting for Milo. The ending makes me wonder what next for Emma and Paul and I want to find out now!
July 25, 2023
A boy is found dead under the dripping water of a Knaresborough cave, where for years people have left objects to be 'petrified'. It takes Riddick back to a similar occasion at the start of his police career. There are personal choices to be made in this book, both by him and by Emma Gardner. It's a real thriller of a book.
August 4, 2023
Another fast paced and tense addition to this excellent series. It kept me hooked and guessing, the solid plot is tightly knitted and gripping.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
August 2, 2023
The third in the series. Works as a stand alone but I think you need to read the other 2 to get a feel of the characters. This is a cracker of a book and needs to be read . Wow love Wes Markin books.
August 23, 2025
I liked this, but found it a bit chaotic and at times difficult to keep up with the different stories going on with different characters. It came together nicely at the end and there was some good twists and drama.
July 23, 2023
I can't get enough of books by Wes Markin, every one is in winner and this one is no exception. The story never fails to pull you in right from the start. It's tense and gripping. Well structured with twisty turns and outcomes that you never expect. Great characterisation and the chemistry between Gardner and Riddick is electric!
Riddick, being a bit of a maverick, is well on his way of using up his nine lives that Gardner clearly points out to him....on deaf ears most of the time. Is he bothered? Maybe, but what has he got to lose? The stakes are high and he has choices to make. It's an exciting and chilling read.
My only criticism is to myself, for reading it too fast! I do hope book four will be on its way soon.
Riddick, being a bit of a maverick, is well on his way of using up his nine lives that Gardner clearly points out to him....on deaf ears most of the time. Is he bothered? Maybe, but what has he got to lose? The stakes are high and he has choices to make. It's an exciting and chilling read.
My only criticism is to myself, for reading it too fast! I do hope book four will be on its way soon.
July 25, 2023
The story:
In 2003, 15-year-old Graham Lock was found murdered in Mother Shipton’s Cave in North Yorkshire. A young PC, Paul Riddick was on the scene, and it became a case that defined his career, bringing him to the attention of his former mentor DI Anders Smith.
Now, 20 years later, Riddick discovers the body of young boy Stephen Best in St Robert’s Cave, and he immediately sees a possible connection to the former case.
But that case was solved and a man convicted — a man who later died in prison. Could the wrong man have been convicted? And if so, was it a mistake, or a cover up?
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series by Wes Markin (“The Viaduct Killings” and “The Lonely Lake Killings”), so I am delighted to report that this is probably my favourite instalment yet!
It is good to be back in the company of DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick, although in this story they spend most of their time apart… With Riddick involved in Stephen Best’s mysterious death (at best as a witness, at worst as a suspect), Gardner is forced to team up with newly promoted DI Phil Rice, son of DCI Derek Rice who closed the Lock case 20 years ago.
The story has several threads that the author weaves together well, from the past and current cases linked to the caves, to the parallel story of a drug dealer recruiting teens to work for him — a thoroughly unlikable character who knows more than Riddick would like about his own past mistakes.
Riddick is his usual complex, maverick self in this book, determined to find out the truth from 20 years ago. The link to the present day crime seems coincidental at best, but the more Riddick delves into the past, the more he comes to believe that justice hasn’t been served. Meanwhile, Gardner has her work cut dealing with the death of Stephen Best, a pretty unpleasant acting deputy, and her own personal issues with the breakdown of her marriage.
The various strands of the story are concluded in an exciting finale that took me by surprise, and once again set up further intrigue for the next book. This story could easily be read as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading the others in the series to enjoy Gardner and Riddick’s story from the start!
In 2003, 15-year-old Graham Lock was found murdered in Mother Shipton’s Cave in North Yorkshire. A young PC, Paul Riddick was on the scene, and it became a case that defined his career, bringing him to the attention of his former mentor DI Anders Smith.
Now, 20 years later, Riddick discovers the body of young boy Stephen Best in St Robert’s Cave, and he immediately sees a possible connection to the former case.
But that case was solved and a man convicted — a man who later died in prison. Could the wrong man have been convicted? And if so, was it a mistake, or a cover up?
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series by Wes Markin (“The Viaduct Killings” and “The Lonely Lake Killings”), so I am delighted to report that this is probably my favourite instalment yet!
It is good to be back in the company of DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick, although in this story they spend most of their time apart… With Riddick involved in Stephen Best’s mysterious death (at best as a witness, at worst as a suspect), Gardner is forced to team up with newly promoted DI Phil Rice, son of DCI Derek Rice who closed the Lock case 20 years ago.
The story has several threads that the author weaves together well, from the past and current cases linked to the caves, to the parallel story of a drug dealer recruiting teens to work for him — a thoroughly unlikable character who knows more than Riddick would like about his own past mistakes.
Riddick is his usual complex, maverick self in this book, determined to find out the truth from 20 years ago. The link to the present day crime seems coincidental at best, but the more Riddick delves into the past, the more he comes to believe that justice hasn’t been served. Meanwhile, Gardner has her work cut dealing with the death of Stephen Best, a pretty unpleasant acting deputy, and her own personal issues with the breakdown of her marriage.
The various strands of the story are concluded in an exciting finale that took me by surprise, and once again set up further intrigue for the next book. This story could easily be read as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading the others in the series to enjoy Gardner and Riddick’s story from the start!
July 27, 2023
Once again DI Paul Riddick, instinctive and driven but often impetuous with a certain disregard for rules, is in the doghouse. Out walking at night to escape his demons he spots a distressed teenager near St. Robert’s Cave in Knaresborough but then suddenly he is knocked out and wakes up next to the boy’s dead body. Infuriatingly he cannot remember what he just saw which may be crucial evidence. Echoes of a case twenty years ago when he was a young PC taken under the then DI Anders Smith’s wing come flooding back to Riddick. Another boy, a different cave, a different bear. A visit to his old boss in prison confirms that he was not the only one to have doubts at the time about the conviction of the boy’s father but can there really be a link with this current death? As a key witness, Riddick won’t even be allowed to work on the case but that’s not going to stop him conducting his own inquiries. If there’s a child killer on the loose, how many more boys could be in danger? Meanwhile DCI Emma Gardner has problems of her own, with her estranged husband Barry moving in with her, at least ensuring she can keep custody of her psychopathic brother Jack’s daughter Rose, but then things get tricky when Barry’s new girlfriend turns up. Past events have seen Riddick use up more than his fair share of his nine lives. Fortunately Emma has recognised the good detective in him and helped him back onto an even keel after his tragic history and his drinking, but just how many times can she save him from himself?
Although this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I would certainly recommend reading these books order to follow the character progression and history that has built up since the start. The friendship between Emma and Riddick is now a very strong one and, along with the other detectives, they are developing into a great team as they tackle their most grim and heart-breaking case to date. This story will appeal to readers who love a good solid police procedural with a clever and complex plot, lots of interwoven threads and some very likeable detectives. This is the third story in a great new series and I hope there will be many more.
Although this can be read and enjoyed as a standalone, I would certainly recommend reading these books order to follow the character progression and history that has built up since the start. The friendship between Emma and Riddick is now a very strong one and, along with the other detectives, they are developing into a great team as they tackle their most grim and heart-breaking case to date. This story will appeal to readers who love a good solid police procedural with a clever and complex plot, lots of interwoven threads and some very likeable detectives. This is the third story in a great new series and I hope there will be many more.
July 2, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of The Crying Cave Killings, the third novel to feature DCI Emma Gardiner and DI Paul Riddick of North Yorkshire Police.
DI Paul Riddick is trying to help a young boy who he thinks in trouble when he’s knocked out by a blow to the head. When he wakes up the boy is dead and he’s a suspect. He’s off the case and decides to investigate a similar murder from twenty years ago.
I didn’t take to The Crying Cave Killings the way I liked the previous novels. Paul Riddick is apparently nicknamed “Captain Chaos” by his peers and that just about sums up the novel. There are too many voices with their own stories to tell, including Riddick and his extremely poor decision making, to get a compulsive narrative. I found it an easy book to put down and never heard it calling me back.
To be fair, there are neat, outlandish and unusual solutions to the two cases, the current one and the old one, so kudos to the author for a fertile imagination, but I feel that the murder cases were not the destination of the novel, more a means to exploring other issues, like the troubles of teenage boys and the main event of Riddick’s troubled life. The reader is assured that he is a genius detective, but self destruction is his forte. To be honest I found the teenage boy part skimpy on depth and too much in all the scenarios. I really can’t be bothered with Paul Riddick and I wish he’d shut up and go away. It’s always all about him and he uses people, whether consciously or unconsciously I’m not quite sure and he’s not self aware enough to work it out. The latest mess he is in is all his own fault and once again he kicks Emma in the teeth.
The novel meanders through all sorts of events and not all of them are particularly relevant to the investigation. I didn’t feel that it was particularly focused.
The Crying Cave Killings is not for me.
DI Paul Riddick is trying to help a young boy who he thinks in trouble when he’s knocked out by a blow to the head. When he wakes up the boy is dead and he’s a suspect. He’s off the case and decides to investigate a similar murder from twenty years ago.
I didn’t take to The Crying Cave Killings the way I liked the previous novels. Paul Riddick is apparently nicknamed “Captain Chaos” by his peers and that just about sums up the novel. There are too many voices with their own stories to tell, including Riddick and his extremely poor decision making, to get a compulsive narrative. I found it an easy book to put down and never heard it calling me back.
To be fair, there are neat, outlandish and unusual solutions to the two cases, the current one and the old one, so kudos to the author for a fertile imagination, but I feel that the murder cases were not the destination of the novel, more a means to exploring other issues, like the troubles of teenage boys and the main event of Riddick’s troubled life. The reader is assured that he is a genius detective, but self destruction is his forte. To be honest I found the teenage boy part skimpy on depth and too much in all the scenarios. I really can’t be bothered with Paul Riddick and I wish he’d shut up and go away. It’s always all about him and he uses people, whether consciously or unconsciously I’m not quite sure and he’s not self aware enough to work it out. The latest mess he is in is all his own fault and once again he kicks Emma in the teeth.
The novel meanders through all sorts of events and not all of them are particularly relevant to the investigation. I didn’t feel that it was particularly focused.
The Crying Cave Killings is not for me.
July 24, 2023
‘The Crying Cave Killings’ was a riveting read that kept me up to the early hours! This is the third in the series of the ‘Yorkshire Murders’ but can easily be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading the first two books though as it really gives you a feel for the characters, in particular Riddick’s torment. But this is a self-contained narrative so new readers will have no problems getting to grips with the plot!
A murdered child. A case from the past and a DI with nothing to lose. DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented with the past and his own actions. When his instincts lead him to follow a child who is showing signs of being distressed it pulls him back into past and one of his first-ever cases. Riddick wakes up next to the child who has sadly passed away. DCI Emma Gardner doesn't believe that Riddick has anything to do with the death but he is off the case. But Riddick thinks it's linked the death of another child who was found decades ago in front of Mother Shipton’s Cave and is determined to investigate the link. Will this be the case that finally destroys him…
The location of Mother Shipton’s Cave creeped me out. Our school took us on a day trip there and I hated it! Don't know why, I just found it very scary. So these childhood fears permeated my experience of reading this book. I felt very uncomfortable the whole way through but that's partly due to the standard of Wes’s writing as I was able to visualise the scenes very clearly! I think when you are reading about a case that involves children you always ‘feel’ it more. I was rooting for all of them, especially Milo.
This was a gripping read that kept me up way past my bedtime. The unravelling of Riddick was hypnotising, you just couldn't put it down until you knew what happened! Gardner has her own personal problems going on and hopefully, there will be another book in the series to see how both characters are getting on!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
A murdered child. A case from the past and a DI with nothing to lose. DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented with the past and his own actions. When his instincts lead him to follow a child who is showing signs of being distressed it pulls him back into past and one of his first-ever cases. Riddick wakes up next to the child who has sadly passed away. DCI Emma Gardner doesn't believe that Riddick has anything to do with the death but he is off the case. But Riddick thinks it's linked the death of another child who was found decades ago in front of Mother Shipton’s Cave and is determined to investigate the link. Will this be the case that finally destroys him…
The location of Mother Shipton’s Cave creeped me out. Our school took us on a day trip there and I hated it! Don't know why, I just found it very scary. So these childhood fears permeated my experience of reading this book. I felt very uncomfortable the whole way through but that's partly due to the standard of Wes’s writing as I was able to visualise the scenes very clearly! I think when you are reading about a case that involves children you always ‘feel’ it more. I was rooting for all of them, especially Milo.
This was a gripping read that kept me up way past my bedtime. The unravelling of Riddick was hypnotising, you just couldn't put it down until you knew what happened! Gardner has her own personal problems going on and hopefully, there will be another book in the series to see how both characters are getting on!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
August 6, 2023
Dark, gritty and hard-hitting, Wes Markin’s The Crying Cave Killings is a tense and twisted crime thriller that is not for the faint-hearted.
DI Paul Riddick’s past actions continue to weigh heavily on his mind. Determined to right old wrongs and to ease his conscience, when news reaches him that a child might be in deathly danger, Riddick does not hesitate to step in and help – even if it means putting himself and his career in danger. With his decision having far-reaching consequences for him, Riddick seems mired in hopelessness and despair. But DCI Emma Gardner refuses to believe that Riddick could somehow be responsible for the horrific events that have unfolded. She is determined to do whatever it takes to clear his name. But at what cost?
The discovery that the child he believed had been in danger had been found murdered shocked Riddick to his core. Despite the horrible accusations being thrown his way, Riddick is not guilty of this heinous crime he is being accused of. But this case has stirred up unpleasant memories for Riddick that remind him of a similar crime that had been committed twenty years ago. Is someone trying to trap Riddick? Can he uncover the truth in time? Or will this end up being the case that destroys him once and for all?
Shocking, unpredictable and chilling, my heart was in my throat the entire time I was reading Wes Markin’s The Crying Cave Killings. A compulsively readable crime novel that gets under your skin and keeps you fervently turning the pages, The Crying Cave Killings is a deftly written tale of insidious evil, dangerous secrets and overwhelming guilt that grabs you by the neck from the first line and keeps you hooked until the end.
Heart-pounding, nerve-jangling and unpredictable, crime fiction fans will be gripped by Wes Markin’s The Crying Cave Killings.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
DI Paul Riddick’s past actions continue to weigh heavily on his mind. Determined to right old wrongs and to ease his conscience, when news reaches him that a child might be in deathly danger, Riddick does not hesitate to step in and help – even if it means putting himself and his career in danger. With his decision having far-reaching consequences for him, Riddick seems mired in hopelessness and despair. But DCI Emma Gardner refuses to believe that Riddick could somehow be responsible for the horrific events that have unfolded. She is determined to do whatever it takes to clear his name. But at what cost?
The discovery that the child he believed had been in danger had been found murdered shocked Riddick to his core. Despite the horrible accusations being thrown his way, Riddick is not guilty of this heinous crime he is being accused of. But this case has stirred up unpleasant memories for Riddick that remind him of a similar crime that had been committed twenty years ago. Is someone trying to trap Riddick? Can he uncover the truth in time? Or will this end up being the case that destroys him once and for all?
Shocking, unpredictable and chilling, my heart was in my throat the entire time I was reading Wes Markin’s The Crying Cave Killings. A compulsively readable crime novel that gets under your skin and keeps you fervently turning the pages, The Crying Cave Killings is a deftly written tale of insidious evil, dangerous secrets and overwhelming guilt that grabs you by the neck from the first line and keeps you hooked until the end.
Heart-pounding, nerve-jangling and unpredictable, crime fiction fans will be gripped by Wes Markin’s The Crying Cave Killings.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 1, 2023
What can I say? Book 3 of The Yorkshire Murders Series, The Crying Cave Killings was one I have been waiting for so impatiently for months! This is one author who creates magic as he writes. Every book I have read by him, no matter which series it is, is just amazing.
I was so happy to be back with DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick. I love both these characters and the team that surrounds them. This story is told in the present day, with the discovery of a young boys body. We are also taken back in time with Riddick to a case when he was a young recruit. This is a case that takes all of Gardner and Riddicks attention, even though Riddick is off the case! I will say no more on that score! Read it to find out.
I advise anyone who fancies reading this book to read the full series in order. Number one, because they are all fantastic books and number two because its the best way to appreciate the characters' development. They are all multi layered and have their own flaws, which Wes Markin uses to their full potential. I feel like I'm returning to old friends now, every time I read the newest in the series.
It's another dark and terrible case for the team. I will say that it may be dark, but if you are aware of Wes Markin and his other series, it's not that dark! We see both Emma and Paul struggle in this book for their own reasons, and I was backing them both to get to the truth, which they do in their own ways.
It is a fantastic series that I love returning to, time and time again. I do hope that Wes Markin has plenty of ideas for this series because I really want it to be a 10 book at least!! I couldn't recommend this book or author any higher than I do. Everyone needs to read at least one book and then find themselves hooked!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the copy of the book.
I was so happy to be back with DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick. I love both these characters and the team that surrounds them. This story is told in the present day, with the discovery of a young boys body. We are also taken back in time with Riddick to a case when he was a young recruit. This is a case that takes all of Gardner and Riddicks attention, even though Riddick is off the case! I will say no more on that score! Read it to find out.
I advise anyone who fancies reading this book to read the full series in order. Number one, because they are all fantastic books and number two because its the best way to appreciate the characters' development. They are all multi layered and have their own flaws, which Wes Markin uses to their full potential. I feel like I'm returning to old friends now, every time I read the newest in the series.
It's another dark and terrible case for the team. I will say that it may be dark, but if you are aware of Wes Markin and his other series, it's not that dark! We see both Emma and Paul struggle in this book for their own reasons, and I was backing them both to get to the truth, which they do in their own ways.
It is a fantastic series that I love returning to, time and time again. I do hope that Wes Markin has plenty of ideas for this series because I really want it to be a 10 book at least!! I couldn't recommend this book or author any higher than I do. Everyone needs to read at least one book and then find themselves hooked!
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the copy of the book.
July 19, 2023
This is the 3rd in this series and, as usual, best read from the start and in order. You'll get the best from the characters if you do so.
In this book we start with DI Paul Riddick trying to come to the aid of a young boy when he is knocked out. When he wakes, the boy is dead and Riddick is witness at best, suspect at worst, so he can't be involved in the case. But he wants to be. He has to be. You see, this case, and the location in which it occurs, reminds him of a case from his past, some 20 years since. When he was a lowly, just starting out PC and, which was probably the case that kick started his own career.
So, whilst DCI Emma Gardner investigates the current murder, Riddick starts to look into the old case. Determined to link the two...
How Riddick is still a copper beats me, let alone a DCI. But art imitates life and, well, you've all seen the papers...! He really is a bit of a maverick though and they are always welcome characters in crime fiction! Other characters are just as well drawn and all play their parts well. Especially Emma and her troubles both in and out of work. In fact, having thought, the location could also almost be a character in its own right, so integral to the story it is. And how well described too.
If I have one small niggle is that it does get a bit muddled on occasion. There is a lot going on and a lot of voices which do take some concentration to keep straight. But I managed it... just!
But despite this, it dragged me in, held, me captive, and spat me out at the end satisfied and also a little shocked. I really can't wait to see where the author takes the characters next time...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
In this book we start with DI Paul Riddick trying to come to the aid of a young boy when he is knocked out. When he wakes, the boy is dead and Riddick is witness at best, suspect at worst, so he can't be involved in the case. But he wants to be. He has to be. You see, this case, and the location in which it occurs, reminds him of a case from his past, some 20 years since. When he was a lowly, just starting out PC and, which was probably the case that kick started his own career.
So, whilst DCI Emma Gardner investigates the current murder, Riddick starts to look into the old case. Determined to link the two...
How Riddick is still a copper beats me, let alone a DCI. But art imitates life and, well, you've all seen the papers...! He really is a bit of a maverick though and they are always welcome characters in crime fiction! Other characters are just as well drawn and all play their parts well. Especially Emma and her troubles both in and out of work. In fact, having thought, the location could also almost be a character in its own right, so integral to the story it is. And how well described too.
If I have one small niggle is that it does get a bit muddled on occasion. There is a lot going on and a lot of voices which do take some concentration to keep straight. But I managed it... just!
But despite this, it dragged me in, held, me captive, and spat me out at the end satisfied and also a little shocked. I really can't wait to see where the author takes the characters next time...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
July 19, 2023
This is the third in The Yorkshire Murders and it opens with a case from 2003 where a teenager was found dead in Mother Shipton’s Cave, beneath the Petrifying Well. Young PC Paul Riddick notices that a petrified bear is missing which help clear the case and find the murderer. But Riddick is not convinced that the real murderer was convicted. There are so many threads going on in this book, as well as carry over issues from previous books, so it was a tad confusing at times but everything is woven together so neatly it all makes sense in the end. This author really does write a good police procedural.
Briefly, 20 years later, following a teenager he believes to be in trouble, Riddick, now a DI, is hit over the head and when he comes around the teen is lying next to him, dead. Clearly he can’t be involved in the case but that isn’t going to stop him. DCI Emma Gardner is investigating the case but when Riddick tells her about the similarities to the 20 year old case she doesn’t see it.
Riddick is a very damaged and broken character, which isn’t surprising given his wife and two children were murdered and his retribution on the killer was brutal. He’s a loose cannon but one who is dedicated to finding the truth. Most of the investigations are centred around male youths and the problems they meet in their lives; drugs, sexuality, friendships, mental health, family to name a few, it makes for distressing reading at times. The resolution to the two cave deaths was very original, totally unexpected and that doesn’t happen often! There are also more shocking scenes before the end which was excellent but which leaves some tiny loose ends that hint at a book 4. I really hope so. 4.5⭐️
Briefly, 20 years later, following a teenager he believes to be in trouble, Riddick, now a DI, is hit over the head and when he comes around the teen is lying next to him, dead. Clearly he can’t be involved in the case but that isn’t going to stop him. DCI Emma Gardner is investigating the case but when Riddick tells her about the similarities to the 20 year old case she doesn’t see it.
Riddick is a very damaged and broken character, which isn’t surprising given his wife and two children were murdered and his retribution on the killer was brutal. He’s a loose cannon but one who is dedicated to finding the truth. Most of the investigations are centred around male youths and the problems they meet in their lives; drugs, sexuality, friendships, mental health, family to name a few, it makes for distressing reading at times. The resolution to the two cave deaths was very original, totally unexpected and that doesn’t happen often! There are also more shocking scenes before the end which was excellent but which leaves some tiny loose ends that hint at a book 4. I really hope so. 4.5⭐️
July 20, 2023
I'm so glad I discovered Wes Markin's Yorkshire Murder crime novels featuring DCI Emma Gardner and her partner DI Paul Riddick. I'm not usually a fan of crime, but have really enjoyed books 2 and 3 (Book 1 has been downloaded and waiting to be read). The Crying Cave Killings is yet another gripping read - which incidentally, can be read as a stand alone story. The past comes back to meet the present in two distinct cases. The former, which occurred when Paul Riddick was a young policeman, and the present where in trying to help a young boy, he ends up being found unconscious beside the boy's body. Riddick, we are told, is a great detective, but his tendency to go it alone, coupled with his inability to cope with the grief of losing his wife and daughters, always seems to lead him into trouble. This time is no exception as delving into the past he finds himself suspended. Meanwhile, as Emma and her team begin to piece together the boy's last moments, she also has unwanted domestic distractions in the form of her soon to be ex-husband. The case is a complex one, constantly changing, taking the reader in one direction and then another, with surprise after surprise. There are edge of the seat moments, and times when you wonder how this will all play out. There are two issues at the end of the book which point to unfinished business that will hopefully carry over into the next story. Cleverly written, great characters and a plot which keeps you turning pages, it's a well deserved five stars from me. I would like to thank Boldwood Books, Wes Markin and Netgalley for an ARC of The Crying Cave Killings in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2023
I really enjoyed the previous book in the Yorkshire murder series by Wes Markin, so I was definitely intrigued to read the next book. In The Crying Cave Killings, DI Paul Riddick is facing another tough investigation, with the discovery of a murdered child, and this case has a huge impact on him, especially as he thinks there’s a connection to a previous case that took place twenty years earlier, with the discovery of a body in Mother Shiptons Cave. But the closer he gets to the case, the more his obsession makes him a suspect in the eyes of his colleagues.
I was really interested to see what was going to happen to DI Paul Riddick throughout the course of this novel. It is clear to see how personal this case is to him and he is also battling his own demons. You can see why he takes some of the actions that he does in the book, even if they aren’t the best choices for him to make, especially as it puts Paul’s career in the police force and his reputation at risk. He is also having therapy sessions. I was also interested in the scenes when he was together with his therapist, as there was chemistry between them, which I really liked. I’m looking to forward to seeing where Wes Markin will take this part of the story next.
There are some chilling and horrific themes that Wes Markin explores as the case into the murdered child develops. There are also some chapters which are told from the perspective of an unknown individual, and I thought these chapters were so intriguing, as we can see what a damaged person this individual is. I wanted to know what connection this person had to the killings that were taking place. Is this person the killer? It made for some tense reading as Wes Markin gets inside this persons head.
Wes Markin’s latest novel will chill you to the bone and keep you gripped. I’m really enjoying this series, and I am looking forward to the next instalment.
I was really interested to see what was going to happen to DI Paul Riddick throughout the course of this novel. It is clear to see how personal this case is to him and he is also battling his own demons. You can see why he takes some of the actions that he does in the book, even if they aren’t the best choices for him to make, especially as it puts Paul’s career in the police force and his reputation at risk. He is also having therapy sessions. I was also interested in the scenes when he was together with his therapist, as there was chemistry between them, which I really liked. I’m looking to forward to seeing where Wes Markin will take this part of the story next.
There are some chilling and horrific themes that Wes Markin explores as the case into the murdered child develops. There are also some chapters which are told from the perspective of an unknown individual, and I thought these chapters were so intriguing, as we can see what a damaged person this individual is. I wanted to know what connection this person had to the killings that were taking place. Is this person the killer? It made for some tense reading as Wes Markin gets inside this persons head.
Wes Markin’s latest novel will chill you to the bone and keep you gripped. I’m really enjoying this series, and I am looking forward to the next instalment.
April 23, 2025
Another book in the excellent The Yorkshire Murder Killings series and another super absorbing and very definitely rewarding read. Wes Markin sure knows how to write compulsive crime suspense fiction.
Not read any others in the series? Then don’t be put off as this most certainly is very much a standalone read and one which gives a great insight into the conflicted character of DI Paul Riddick, one of the lead detectives in the series along with DCI Emma Gardner.
Toing and froing from Riddick’s childhood, his early years in the police and the now, when he is put on leave as his colleagues investigate claims he is the potential murderer of a child found in The Crying Caves, this is one gripping story.
I found myself rooting for Riddick despite the demons that haunt his sanity and confidence. Even his boss, but more importantly only true friend, Gardner, has doubts on some of his claims as to why he is not to blame for the crime - that the current murder might well link to the one which occurred many years ago when he first joined the force. But such is her faith in his innocence, she sets out to prove it.
The author took me on a roller coaster of a journey full of leads that result in dead ends, high intensity cat and mouse chasing and all bound together with such engaging prose that when I wasn’t reading The Crying Caves, I was thinking about it and desperate to pick it up again.
And what an ending which only served to make me want to immediately pick up on the next book and the next phase of Gardiner and Riddick’s professional and personal lives.
Not read any others in the series? Then don’t be put off as this most certainly is very much a standalone read and one which gives a great insight into the conflicted character of DI Paul Riddick, one of the lead detectives in the series along with DCI Emma Gardner.
Toing and froing from Riddick’s childhood, his early years in the police and the now, when he is put on leave as his colleagues investigate claims he is the potential murderer of a child found in The Crying Caves, this is one gripping story.
I found myself rooting for Riddick despite the demons that haunt his sanity and confidence. Even his boss, but more importantly only true friend, Gardner, has doubts on some of his claims as to why he is not to blame for the crime - that the current murder might well link to the one which occurred many years ago when he first joined the force. But such is her faith in his innocence, she sets out to prove it.
The author took me on a roller coaster of a journey full of leads that result in dead ends, high intensity cat and mouse chasing and all bound together with such engaging prose that when I wasn’t reading The Crying Caves, I was thinking about it and desperate to pick it up again.
And what an ending which only served to make me want to immediately pick up on the next book and the next phase of Gardiner and Riddick’s professional and personal lives.
July 22, 2023
The Crying Cave Killings by Wes Markin is another fabulous crime suspense and the third book in The Yorkshire Murders series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend reading the previous books first for maximum enjoyment.
I enjoyed being reunited with familiar faces who were once more relentless in their search for the truth.
The line between good and evil is blurred as a ‘good’ character is tormented by a terrible past event. The guilt over the choice made, and the path taken, continues to eat away.
There is the theme of identity. Some hide who they really are through shame of what others might think. There are some tragic decisions taken.
Family is important. Sometime we choose our family, at other times we are born into it. True family will always protect the vulnerable.
The reader enters the murky criminal underworld surrounding Knaresborough and Mother Shipton’s cave. The petrified objects add to the dark atmosphere as the scene is set. Mirrored by the petrified objects is a soul trapped inside itself.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. The reader admires those who seek justice within the law. We witness that even some of the criminals have compassion. Life is not always clear-cut black and white but varying shades of grey.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Crying Cave Killings. It was exciting and all consuming.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed being reunited with familiar faces who were once more relentless in their search for the truth.
The line between good and evil is blurred as a ‘good’ character is tormented by a terrible past event. The guilt over the choice made, and the path taken, continues to eat away.
There is the theme of identity. Some hide who they really are through shame of what others might think. There are some tragic decisions taken.
Family is important. Sometime we choose our family, at other times we are born into it. True family will always protect the vulnerable.
The reader enters the murky criminal underworld surrounding Knaresborough and Mother Shipton’s cave. The petrified objects add to the dark atmosphere as the scene is set. Mirrored by the petrified objects is a soul trapped inside itself.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. The reader admires those who seek justice within the law. We witness that even some of the criminals have compassion. Life is not always clear-cut black and white but varying shades of grey.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Crying Cave Killings. It was exciting and all consuming.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
July 19, 2023
This is the third in The Yorkshire Murders series, and the first I have read, and as someone coming in on book three, I believe the books should be read in order as the gaps in my knowledge were evident in places, although the author does give brief recollections of past important narration. And anyway, you really don’t want to miss out on what I can only assume are two other great reads!
It is clear that from the off that Riddick is a very damaged and broken character, which isn’t surprising given his past, he really is a bit of a rebel, and we all know they make the best fictional characters! I warmed to Emma immediately – another scarred individual, with issues both in and out of work. I echo what some other reviewers have said - there is a lot going on, but I do feel that the threads all come together so well that everything makes sense in the end. This book covers sensitive topics, and as such it makes for distressing reading at times; however, I do think the author handles these topics well and they are not included simply to shock and/or upset the reader.
All in all, this is well written police procedural with a host of strong characters, a gritty storyline, and some chilling moments, I very much hope there will be a book four.
It is clear that from the off that Riddick is a very damaged and broken character, which isn’t surprising given his past, he really is a bit of a rebel, and we all know they make the best fictional characters! I warmed to Emma immediately – another scarred individual, with issues both in and out of work. I echo what some other reviewers have said - there is a lot going on, but I do feel that the threads all come together so well that everything makes sense in the end. This book covers sensitive topics, and as such it makes for distressing reading at times; however, I do think the author handles these topics well and they are not included simply to shock and/or upset the reader.
All in all, this is well written police procedural with a host of strong characters, a gritty storyline, and some chilling moments, I very much hope there will be a book four.
July 28, 2023
Even though this is the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone which I am thankful for. DI Paul Riddick is haunted by his past and his need to right the wrongs of that past lead him to follow a child he believes is in danger. He is right when that child is found dead but the problem is the child’s death is very similar to one that happened twenty years ago. Now he is on leave and can’t work the case. However, DCI Emma Gardner can and she works to clear his name because she believes in him.
This is a fast paced book that will grab your attention right from the beginning. Riddick is like any good hero and still investigates even though he is off the case. After all he is the only one that truly clear his name. There is plenty of suspense and a lot of threads that get neatly tied up in the end. I found that I enjoyed Riddick as a character. The book is a good read all in all.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Storied Conversation
This is a fast paced book that will grab your attention right from the beginning. Riddick is like any good hero and still investigates even though he is off the case. After all he is the only one that truly clear his name. There is plenty of suspense and a lot of threads that get neatly tied up in the end. I found that I enjoyed Riddick as a character. The book is a good read all in all.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Storied Conversation
July 1, 2023
I've been a huge fan of Wes' writing for some time and have finished the latest book in his other series very recently.
The Crying Cave Killings is a complete break away from that! It's a slightly more gentle move to Knaresborough, where a young boy is found dead outside a cave on 2003. When Riddick is found next to a dead body, in the Caves near Mother Shipton, he's off the case officially but nevertheless doesn't give up investigating.
The story follows Pete, Miles and Stephen along with Kyle to a lesser extent struggling with various issues that many teenagers do, loss, sexuality, abuse, good parenting, poor parenting, neurodiversity. Each is handled with a great deal of sensitivity and reality and made me feel for each of the boys for different reasons.
Add in a drug delivery operation, a gangster, a disgraced cop and a secret waiting to be revealed you really have a really tense breathtaking read. I literally couldn't put this down until I'd found out the truth.
This is book 3 in the series and things are left in such a way that I really hope there's a book 4 and beyond, as these characters have a lot more to say.
Absolutely brilliant.
The Crying Cave Killings is a complete break away from that! It's a slightly more gentle move to Knaresborough, where a young boy is found dead outside a cave on 2003. When Riddick is found next to a dead body, in the Caves near Mother Shipton, he's off the case officially but nevertheless doesn't give up investigating.
The story follows Pete, Miles and Stephen along with Kyle to a lesser extent struggling with various issues that many teenagers do, loss, sexuality, abuse, good parenting, poor parenting, neurodiversity. Each is handled with a great deal of sensitivity and reality and made me feel for each of the boys for different reasons.
Add in a drug delivery operation, a gangster, a disgraced cop and a secret waiting to be revealed you really have a really tense breathtaking read. I literally couldn't put this down until I'd found out the truth.
This is book 3 in the series and things are left in such a way that I really hope there's a book 4 and beyond, as these characters have a lot more to say.
Absolutely brilliant.
July 5, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this eARC.
This is another good read in the authors Gardner and Riddick series. Gardner investigates a murder of a teenager with a new DI - who I didn't take to initially although he slowly grew on me as the book progressed. Riddick is sidelined on the investigation and sees a similarity to an old historic case and investigates on his own. This is a well written and absorbing read with lots of different threads that had me wondering how they would all come together. The story flows well and has a good believable plot line which is full of suspense and tension. I like the working and personal relationship between Gardner and Riddick and the small glimpses the author gives into their home and personal lives. The authors descriptions of Knaresborough and it's streets are really good and I can picture the characters and scenes in my mind when reading. I'd have liked Riddick to have had a bigger part in the story here though. Overall a good read which I did enjoy although it didn't quite wow me as much as the previous books, and I'll still want to read the next book in the series.
3.5 stars
This is another good read in the authors Gardner and Riddick series. Gardner investigates a murder of a teenager with a new DI - who I didn't take to initially although he slowly grew on me as the book progressed. Riddick is sidelined on the investigation and sees a similarity to an old historic case and investigates on his own. This is a well written and absorbing read with lots of different threads that had me wondering how they would all come together. The story flows well and has a good believable plot line which is full of suspense and tension. I like the working and personal relationship between Gardner and Riddick and the small glimpses the author gives into their home and personal lives. The authors descriptions of Knaresborough and it's streets are really good and I can picture the characters and scenes in my mind when reading. I'd have liked Riddick to have had a bigger part in the story here though. Overall a good read which I did enjoy although it didn't quite wow me as much as the previous books, and I'll still want to read the next book in the series.
3.5 stars
August 1, 2023
This is the second Yorkshire Murders book I have read and I loved it. It can be read as a standalone book too.
The story begins when DI Paul Riddick was a PC at the scene of a murder of a child in Mother Shiptons Cave. He notices something that none of the more experienced detectives see and he is taken under the wing of one of the senior officers. This case has always stuck with him.
In the current day DI Riddick has stopped drinking and he’s going to grief counselling but he is still a loose cannon and going off doing his own thing. While out walking he sees a teenage boy in distress and goes after him to see if he can help. The situation goes from bad to worse when he is knocked unconscious. When he comes round the boy is dead and he can’t remember what actually happened.
He is taken off the case but continues to do his own investigations despite having a bad head injury and no memory of what happened! DI Riddick makes a tenuous connection to the case from years ago and he is on a mission to prove he is right , even after he is warned off by his boss.
A real page turner and a fab read.
The story begins when DI Paul Riddick was a PC at the scene of a murder of a child in Mother Shiptons Cave. He notices something that none of the more experienced detectives see and he is taken under the wing of one of the senior officers. This case has always stuck with him.
In the current day DI Riddick has stopped drinking and he’s going to grief counselling but he is still a loose cannon and going off doing his own thing. While out walking he sees a teenage boy in distress and goes after him to see if he can help. The situation goes from bad to worse when he is knocked unconscious. When he comes round the boy is dead and he can’t remember what actually happened.
He is taken off the case but continues to do his own investigations despite having a bad head injury and no memory of what happened! DI Riddick makes a tenuous connection to the case from years ago and he is on a mission to prove he is right , even after he is warned off by his boss.
A real page turner and a fab read.
August 5, 2023
This is book three of The Yorkshire Murders series, and one that is well worth reading in order, if possible.
It begins with a frozen boy in a cave and a missing petrified bear... DI Paul Riddick, haunted by his own past, is technically supposed to be off the case, but can't let go. DCI Emma Gardner tries to work it without him, but boys are going missing and time is running out...
The Crying Cave Killings is a dark and complicated crime tale, with multiple plot strands, some of which take a little time to come together. Gardner and Riddick are well-written, fully developed characters (albeit some of that development comes from the whole series, rather than this book specifically).
I said it's dark - it's certainly compelling, but verging on depressing, too. Especially if you don't like reading about awful things happening to young people. Yet by the end there is some hope thrown in there too, something we're all in short supply of. I'll return to this series, but will try to find sunnier weather to read it in next time...
It begins with a frozen boy in a cave and a missing petrified bear... DI Paul Riddick, haunted by his own past, is technically supposed to be off the case, but can't let go. DCI Emma Gardner tries to work it without him, but boys are going missing and time is running out...
The Crying Cave Killings is a dark and complicated crime tale, with multiple plot strands, some of which take a little time to come together. Gardner and Riddick are well-written, fully developed characters (albeit some of that development comes from the whole series, rather than this book specifically).
I said it's dark - it's certainly compelling, but verging on depressing, too. Especially if you don't like reading about awful things happening to young people. Yet by the end there is some hope thrown in there too, something we're all in short supply of. I'll return to this series, but will try to find sunnier weather to read it in next time...
July 25, 2024
I really enjoyed the previous books in this series. But, this time, the story just didn't grab my attention. I'm not sure why. Hopefully I will love the next book.
A murdered child. A case from the past. A detective inspector with nothing to lose…
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past any way he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets in deeper than he ever imagined…especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn’t believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he’s off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name. Because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
Riddick's certain he didn’t kill the kid in the cave. But he also remembers another case, twenty years ago, with shocking similarities…which means someone is trying to trap Riddick.
Can Riddick uncover the truth, or will this be the case that finally destroys him once and for all?
A murdered child. A case from the past. A detective inspector with nothing to lose…
DI Paul Riddick is a man tormented by his own actions and determined to right the wrongs of his past any way he can. But when his instincts lead him to follow a child he believes to be in danger, Riddick gets in deeper than he ever imagined…especially when the child is found dead.
DCI Emma Gardner doesn’t believe Riddick has blood on his hands, but he’s off the case until she can clear his name. If she can clear his name. Because Riddick seems determined to chase ghosts that only get him into more trouble.
Riddick's certain he didn’t kill the kid in the cave. But he also remembers another case, twenty years ago, with shocking similarities…which means someone is trying to trap Riddick.
Can Riddick uncover the truth, or will this be the case that finally destroys him once and for all?
December 31, 2023
Wes Markin writes dark, gritty crime thrillers and this one is no exception.
He manages to seamlessly slip between past and present, drawing the reader in with his narrative until you reach a point in the plotline where it feels as though you are under a compulsion to keep reading.
DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick make a formidable team, even after Emma is forced to sideline Riddick when he is found beside the body of a victim with no recollection of the events of the evening. Neither one of our main protagonists is without flaws, although Riddick's flaws may threaten to destroy him unless the ghosts he tilts at can finally be laid to rest.
While this could easily be read as a standalone, I feel the reader will get so much more from reading the previous books in the series.
Can't wait to see where Wes will take Emma and Riddick next, but wherever it is, it's guaranteed to be one hell of a ride
He manages to seamlessly slip between past and present, drawing the reader in with his narrative until you reach a point in the plotline where it feels as though you are under a compulsion to keep reading.
DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick make a formidable team, even after Emma is forced to sideline Riddick when he is found beside the body of a victim with no recollection of the events of the evening. Neither one of our main protagonists is without flaws, although Riddick's flaws may threaten to destroy him unless the ghosts he tilts at can finally be laid to rest.
While this could easily be read as a standalone, I feel the reader will get so much more from reading the previous books in the series.
Can't wait to see where Wes will take Emma and Riddick next, but wherever it is, it's guaranteed to be one hell of a ride
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2025
Wes Markin delivers a gripping and tense police procedural in The Crying Cave Killings, the third instalment of his Yorkshire Murders series. DI Paul Riddick finds himself suspended after being found beside a murdered child—with eerie parallels to a case from his past. The narrative masterfully flips between present investigation and haunting backstory, creating a page-turner filled with moral ambiguity and rising suspense
The novel excels in character depth—Riddick is brooding and haunted, his instincts both a gift and a curse; DCI Emma Gardner is a compelling foil, determined to clear his name and keep the case on track. The Yorkshire setting, especially the atmospheric Mother Shipton’s Cave, adds vivid tension and a haunting sense of place
The Crying Cave Killings offers a dark, emotional ride with unexpected twists and a haunting conclusion that’ll linger. A must-read for fans of gritty, character-driven crime fiction.
The novel excels in character depth—Riddick is brooding and haunted, his instincts both a gift and a curse; DCI Emma Gardner is a compelling foil, determined to clear his name and keep the case on track. The Yorkshire setting, especially the atmospheric Mother Shipton’s Cave, adds vivid tension and a haunting sense of place
The Crying Cave Killings offers a dark, emotional ride with unexpected twists and a haunting conclusion that’ll linger. A must-read for fans of gritty, character-driven crime fiction.
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