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DS Aector McAvoy #12
The Burning Time
A quiet town. A horrible incident. Things that don't add up. - The highly-anticipated latest instalment of the DS McAvoy series from the Sunday Times best-selling, Kindle chart-topping author.
"[A] dark, creepy, twisted mystery that will keep readers awake far into the night" Booklist Starred Review
"McAvoy is a true original" Mick Herron
An unexpected invite to his estranged mother's surprise birthday party at a fancy Durham hotel gives DI Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin a chance for a well-deserved holiday. Off-duty, and still recovering from his previous injuries, McAvoy is determined to take advantage of the all-expenses-paid break, despite the old grudges and thick tension between himself and his step-family.
However, what should have been a relaxing, if awkward, getaway weekend turns out to be a full-on nightmare, when McAvoy finds himself in the middle of a town drama that involves the tragic demise of Ishmael Piper, a rock star's millionaire son . . . and best friend of McAvoy's charming, bullying step-brother.
With dark secrets slowly unravelling, McAvoy needs to put his personal issues aside to unmask the evil forces behind Ishmael's mysterious death before he becomes a victim of them himself . . .
Dark settings, dark crimes and even darker souls - the critically acclaimed DS McAvoy police procedural series is a perfect pick for fans of Denise Mina, Val McDermid and Peter Robinson.
"[A] dark, creepy, twisted mystery that will keep readers awake far into the night" Booklist Starred Review
"McAvoy is a true original" Mick Herron
An unexpected invite to his estranged mother's surprise birthday party at a fancy Durham hotel gives DI Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin a chance for a well-deserved holiday. Off-duty, and still recovering from his previous injuries, McAvoy is determined to take advantage of the all-expenses-paid break, despite the old grudges and thick tension between himself and his step-family.
However, what should have been a relaxing, if awkward, getaway weekend turns out to be a full-on nightmare, when McAvoy finds himself in the middle of a town drama that involves the tragic demise of Ishmael Piper, a rock star's millionaire son . . . and best friend of McAvoy's charming, bullying step-brother.
With dark secrets slowly unravelling, McAvoy needs to put his personal issues aside to unmask the evil forces behind Ishmael's mysterious death before he becomes a victim of them himself . . .
Dark settings, dark crimes and even darker souls - the critically acclaimed DS McAvoy police procedural series is a perfect pick for fans of Denise Mina, Val McDermid and Peter Robinson.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 5, 2023
17 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 9, 2023
EXCERPT: 'What's that, Daddy?'
She's looking past him. Looking through the glass. Looking out past the chicken coop and the wood-store and the little lean-to outhouse where he stores his tools and his pellets and where sacks of fertilizer and cement lean against one another like drunks at a bus-stop. She leans forward, squints theatrically.
'What's what, sugarbun?'
Delilah puts a hand to her brow, the way people do in her storybooks. She can barely make out the outline of the old tower: sticking up like a mid-finger - an exclamation point visible for miles around. She's played in its dark , gloomy hollows since before she could walk. She can call its smell to mind from memory: wet stones and funky moss; dead animals and sheep-poop. She'd like to be out there now. would like to be hunkered down with her daddy and one of her mummies, cuddled up beneath an oilskin and drinking hot chocolate from a Thermos, tasting the static on the air.
'There's somebody on the moor.'
ABOUT 'THE BURNING TIME': An unexpected invite to his estranged mother's surprise birthday party at a fancy Durham hotel gives DI Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin a chance for a well-deserved holiday. Off-duty, and still recovering from his previous injuries, McAvoy is determined to take advantage of the all-expenses-paid break, despite the old grudges and thick tension between himself and his step-family. However, what should have been a relaxing, if awkward, getaway weekend turns out to be a full-on nightmare, when McAvoy finds himself in the middle of a town drama that involves the tragic demise of Ishmael Piper, a rock star's millionaire son . . . and best friend of McAvoy's charming, bullying step-brother. With dark secrets slowly unravelling, McAvoy needs to put his personal issues aside to unmask the evil forces behind Ishmael's mysterious death before he becomes a victim of them himself . .
MY THOUGHTS: I love Aector McAvoy and his beautiful, fey Romany wife, Roisin, and I was pleased to see Roisin play an integral part in The Burning Time. This is a somewhat darker book than usual, with references to witchcraft, a touch of the paranormal, and some rather gruesome torture scenes. Roisin brings some much-needed light to the proceedings. She instinctively knows how to diffuse situations, but also when someone is lying. She is bright and clever and a breath of fresh air, but I find her health issues somewhat alarming.
Aector is off-balance, in enemy territory, so to speak, and still recovering his injuries from his last case. Roisin is protective of him, not physically perhaps although I have no doubt she would throw herself into the ring to fight for him, but emotionally. He has been rejected by his mother throughout his life, and so the invitation to her birthday from his 'brother' Felix is something of a surprise, but there's an all-expenses paid posh hotel thrown into the invite, so why not?
I loved Aector's tenderness with the grieving child Delilah, and I would have loved to have seen Roisin and Delilah together. That was an opportunity missed.
The characters are complex: Big Harry who may not entirely be trusted; Deon who has been badly treated all his life but has a pure sweet love for Petra, Aector's niece; the creepy and strange Ingle who is convinced witchcraft can save him; and, of course, the delightful Delilah.
There are numerous twists and turns, some delicious and some not-s0 delicious darkness, a mysterious death, and a dispute about a will. A very satisfying read despite some initial confusion, mostly concerning Ingle, which resolves itself as the story progresses.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheBurningTime #NetGalley
I: @davidmarkwriter @severnhouseimprint
T: @DavidMarkWriter @severnhouse
THE AUTHOR: David spent more than 15 years as a journalist, including seven years as a crime reporter with The Yorkshire Post – walking the Hull streets that would later become the setting for the internationally bestselling Detective Sergeant Aector McAvoy novels.
His writing is heavily influenced by the court cases he covered: the defeatist and jaded police officers; the inertia of the justice system and the sheer raw grief of those touched by savagery and tragedy.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Severn House via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Burning Time by David Mark for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
She's looking past him. Looking through the glass. Looking out past the chicken coop and the wood-store and the little lean-to outhouse where he stores his tools and his pellets and where sacks of fertilizer and cement lean against one another like drunks at a bus-stop. She leans forward, squints theatrically.
'What's what, sugarbun?'
Delilah puts a hand to her brow, the way people do in her storybooks. She can barely make out the outline of the old tower: sticking up like a mid-finger - an exclamation point visible for miles around. She's played in its dark , gloomy hollows since before she could walk. She can call its smell to mind from memory: wet stones and funky moss; dead animals and sheep-poop. She'd like to be out there now. would like to be hunkered down with her daddy and one of her mummies, cuddled up beneath an oilskin and drinking hot chocolate from a Thermos, tasting the static on the air.
'There's somebody on the moor.'
ABOUT 'THE BURNING TIME': An unexpected invite to his estranged mother's surprise birthday party at a fancy Durham hotel gives DI Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin a chance for a well-deserved holiday. Off-duty, and still recovering from his previous injuries, McAvoy is determined to take advantage of the all-expenses-paid break, despite the old grudges and thick tension between himself and his step-family. However, what should have been a relaxing, if awkward, getaway weekend turns out to be a full-on nightmare, when McAvoy finds himself in the middle of a town drama that involves the tragic demise of Ishmael Piper, a rock star's millionaire son . . . and best friend of McAvoy's charming, bullying step-brother. With dark secrets slowly unravelling, McAvoy needs to put his personal issues aside to unmask the evil forces behind Ishmael's mysterious death before he becomes a victim of them himself . .
MY THOUGHTS: I love Aector McAvoy and his beautiful, fey Romany wife, Roisin, and I was pleased to see Roisin play an integral part in The Burning Time. This is a somewhat darker book than usual, with references to witchcraft, a touch of the paranormal, and some rather gruesome torture scenes. Roisin brings some much-needed light to the proceedings. She instinctively knows how to diffuse situations, but also when someone is lying. She is bright and clever and a breath of fresh air, but I find her health issues somewhat alarming.
Aector is off-balance, in enemy territory, so to speak, and still recovering his injuries from his last case. Roisin is protective of him, not physically perhaps although I have no doubt she would throw herself into the ring to fight for him, but emotionally. He has been rejected by his mother throughout his life, and so the invitation to her birthday from his 'brother' Felix is something of a surprise, but there's an all-expenses paid posh hotel thrown into the invite, so why not?
I loved Aector's tenderness with the grieving child Delilah, and I would have loved to have seen Roisin and Delilah together. That was an opportunity missed.
The characters are complex: Big Harry who may not entirely be trusted; Deon who has been badly treated all his life but has a pure sweet love for Petra, Aector's niece; the creepy and strange Ingle who is convinced witchcraft can save him; and, of course, the delightful Delilah.
There are numerous twists and turns, some delicious and some not-s0 delicious darkness, a mysterious death, and a dispute about a will. A very satisfying read despite some initial confusion, mostly concerning Ingle, which resolves itself as the story progresses.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheBurningTime #NetGalley
I: @davidmarkwriter @severnhouseimprint
T: @DavidMarkWriter @severnhouse
THE AUTHOR: David spent more than 15 years as a journalist, including seven years as a crime reporter with The Yorkshire Post – walking the Hull streets that would later become the setting for the internationally bestselling Detective Sergeant Aector McAvoy novels.
His writing is heavily influenced by the court cases he covered: the defeatist and jaded police officers; the inertia of the justice system and the sheer raw grief of those touched by savagery and tragedy.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Severn House via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Burning Time by David Mark for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
December 5, 2023
3.5 stars
In this 12th book in the Detective Sergeant Aector McAvoy series, the sleuth has a busman's holiday.
*****
Detective Inspector Aector McAvoy (who recently got a promotion) is cajoled into attending a seventieth birthday party for his mother Cecelia, who he hasn't seen in years.
For the occasion, McAvoy and his wife Roisin travel to County Durham, where they stay in the luxurious Durham Hotel.....
......with all expenses paid by McAvoy's stepbrother Felix, who's organizing the festivities.
The entire situation is difficult for McAvoy, who has a chilly relationship with both his mother Cecelia and his stepbrother Felix.
After McAvoy's parents divorced, Cecilia coaxed McAvoy away from his father's farm, saying she wanted to spend more time with him. Instead, Cecilia and her new husband sent young McAvoy away to a posh boarding school, where he didn't fit in. At the academy, McAvoy was mercilessly bullied by fellow students, including his stepbrother Felix.
Now McAvoy has something like PTSD from the terrible experience, though he acknowledges the fine education helped his career in the police department, where his learning helped him succeed.
McAvoy would like to skip the birthday festivities and go home, though his wife Roisin - a beautiful, exotic Romani - is enjoying the hotel amenities, and entrancing the boarding school men who remind McAvoy of the bad old days.
It seems McAvoy's stepbrother Felix has an agenda for luring the detective to County Durham. Felix's best friend, wealthy hippie Ishmael Piper - son of a legendary rock star Moose Piper - recently died in suspicious circumstances.
Rumors suggest Felix wants McAvoy to investigate Ishmael's death, and the chatter causes all manner of trouble.
Ishmael, who perished in a horrible fire, was a friendly, well-liked fellow who told almost everyone in town they'd inherit a little something when he passed. Moreover, Ishmael had two 'wives' helping raise his young daughter Delilah.....
......and he believed in spirits and demons, which attracted odd people to Ishmael's vicinity.
Many people in the area are possible suspects in Ishmael's death, and some would go to drastic lengths to keep McAvoy from looking their way. As a result, McAvoy becomes embroiled in dangerous situations that threaten his life.
A cornucopia of characters add interest to the novel: Big Harry - the affable concierge of the Durham Hotel, who's full of local gossip;
Hettie - stepbrother Felix's wife, who seems cowed, unhappy, and apprehensive;
Petra - Felix and Hettie's 14-year-old daughter, who's attracted to bad boys;
Deon - a bad boy drug dealer who's on police radar;
Ingle - a troubled man who believes a witch cast a spell on him; and more.
I enjoyed this fast-moving thriller, which has plenty of action and a touch of the occult.
Thanks to Netgalley, David Mark, and Severn House for a copy of the manuscript.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
January 27, 2025
4 stars for book 12 in the DS Aector McAvoy series. I have read some, including the first 4, but not all of the books in this series. They frequently have some scenes of brutal violence and this one is no exception. Several characters also use profanity. I would not recommend this book or the series to cozy fans. DS (Detective Sergeant) McAvoy has been invited to his estranged mother's surprise birthday party. His wealthy brother is paying for their hotel and meals. But he and his wife Roisin find their is a hidden agenda. Some members of the family want him to investigate the suspicious death of a family friend.
McAvoy is drawn into the mystery and does solve the crime. His wife Roisin contributes to the solution. If you like dark mysteries, then I recommend this book and the series to you. You should read the first few books to understand the characters.
One quote, describing the sky: "There's a storm brewing: clouds massing above the lip of the hill. There's a violet tinge to the sky; the brooding thunderheads seamed with the mingled hues of foxglove and heather. It seems to get darker as she stares. She thinks of a black-smeared paintbrush being dipped in clean water."
Thanks to Severn House for sending me this eARC through Edelweiss.
McAvoy is drawn into the mystery and does solve the crime. His wife Roisin contributes to the solution. If you like dark mysteries, then I recommend this book and the series to you. You should read the first few books to understand the characters.
One quote, describing the sky: "There's a storm brewing: clouds massing above the lip of the hill. There's a violet tinge to the sky; the brooding thunderheads seamed with the mingled hues of foxglove and heather. It seems to get darker as she stares. She thinks of a black-smeared paintbrush being dipped in clean water."
Thanks to Severn House for sending me this eARC through Edelweiss.
November 29, 2023
Families, memories and mayhem!
Strap on your seatbelt and be prepared for a wild ride. Witchcraft and murder greet DS Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin when they roll into Weardale Village, County Durham, for an all expenses paid time for his estranged mother’s 70th birthday
McCovey is recovering from injuries dealt to him in his last case. His partner DSU Trish Pharaoh is recovering in Taormina, Sicily. They’ve been off for three months
Aector’s gypsy wife Roisin is scared for him. Not on the physical level but the emotional level. Aector’s going to be going into enemy territory. His step/brother Felix bullied and abused him as a kid, boarding school with the upper eschelons finished him off.
Twists, turns, and family challenges dog McAvoy’s steps. Steps that become more intuition and gut feeling than anything else.
Aector is a caring, listening and compassionate soul, aptly demonstrated when he lies in the dirt with the seven year old child Delilah, who had been badly burned the night her father died. He lies on the opposite side of Ishmael’s grave that night talking to her. It’s raining. Delilah has gone to talk to her father. McAvoy doesn’t chastise her or startle her but lies with her and listens.
Complex and disturbing, the story explores old, hurtful and harsh memories for McCavoy. There’s a missing policewoman DI Kate Seville, and a crazed local, Leonard Nightingale. The big question becomes whether Ishmael’s death was suicide or murder.
An almost gothic, satisfying read!
A SeVern House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Strap on your seatbelt and be prepared for a wild ride. Witchcraft and murder greet DS Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin when they roll into Weardale Village, County Durham, for an all expenses paid time for his estranged mother’s 70th birthday
McCovey is recovering from injuries dealt to him in his last case. His partner DSU Trish Pharaoh is recovering in Taormina, Sicily. They’ve been off for three months
Aector’s gypsy wife Roisin is scared for him. Not on the physical level but the emotional level. Aector’s going to be going into enemy territory. His step/brother Felix bullied and abused him as a kid, boarding school with the upper eschelons finished him off.
Twists, turns, and family challenges dog McAvoy’s steps. Steps that become more intuition and gut feeling than anything else.
Aector is a caring, listening and compassionate soul, aptly demonstrated when he lies in the dirt with the seven year old child Delilah, who had been badly burned the night her father died. He lies on the opposite side of Ishmael’s grave that night talking to her. It’s raining. Delilah has gone to talk to her father. McAvoy doesn’t chastise her or startle her but lies with her and listens.
Complex and disturbing, the story explores old, hurtful and harsh memories for McCavoy. There’s a missing policewoman DI Kate Seville, and a crazed local, Leonard Nightingale. The big question becomes whether Ishmael’s death was suicide or murder.
An almost gothic, satisfying read!
A SeVern House ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
October 30, 2024
Having missed out on this title last year, I was very happy to find it in the ‘to download’ section recently. This twelfth title in the Aector McAvoy series is a compact and dark story.
When Aector and Roisin arrive in a posh hotel as guests for the celebration of his mothers’ 70th birthday, the main ‘event’ is already a few weeks past. There’s been a murder – or maybe not? Fact is, Aector doesn’t want to be there and soon we know why – his mother is a very unlikable person and the man she married even more so. He may be rich in money but he lacks in morals. Despite himself, Aector cannot help it when someone reveals to him the real reason he’s been invited, and Aector wouldn’t be Aector if he didn’t want to help where he can. It’s good that he’s with Roisin though, because there are very strange forces at work.
It was by times heart-wrenching to read, and the ending was very fitting.
When Aector and Roisin arrive in a posh hotel as guests for the celebration of his mothers’ 70th birthday, the main ‘event’ is already a few weeks past. There’s been a murder – or maybe not? Fact is, Aector doesn’t want to be there and soon we know why – his mother is a very unlikable person and the man she married even more so. He may be rich in money but he lacks in morals. Despite himself, Aector cannot help it when someone reveals to him the real reason he’s been invited, and Aector wouldn’t be Aector if he didn’t want to help where he can. It’s good that he’s with Roisin though, because there are very strange forces at work.
It was by times heart-wrenching to read, and the ending was very fitting.
October 2, 2023
Thank you Severn House and NetGalley for the eARC.
DS Aector MacAvoy and his wife Roisin are on a quick trip to visit Aector's family, an occasion he's dreading. He quickly realizes they only want him there to find a killer.
We learn about Aector's terrible childhood, which explains a lot about him. Roisin has a large presence in the story which was enjoyable.
The beginning of the story was great, featuring the murdered man and his little girl. Much.of the theme had to do with the black arts, which at times was disturbing (I skimmed those parts).
A good read, definitely recommended, but please go easy on Aector's poor body in the following book!
DS Aector MacAvoy and his wife Roisin are on a quick trip to visit Aector's family, an occasion he's dreading. He quickly realizes they only want him there to find a killer.
We learn about Aector's terrible childhood, which explains a lot about him. Roisin has a large presence in the story which was enjoyable.
The beginning of the story was great, featuring the murdered man and his little girl. Much.of the theme had to do with the black arts, which at times was disturbing (I skimmed those parts).
A good read, definitely recommended, but please go easy on Aector's poor body in the following book!
December 5, 2023
Another gritty, solidy, and gripping mystery in this excellent series. Twisty, full of surprises and a unexpected solution.
Loved it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Loved it
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 24, 2023
I want to thank NetGalley for a chance to review this title. I liked the story plot of this book alot. On the first chapter I didn't think I would like the book.at all. The first chapter was confusing made sense after reading the whole book. I would say the formatting in this book gave me a headache. Too many words crammed together to closely on each page. Needs more spacing between sentences. The characters are amazing, the story is amazing, the ending took a big twist and throws you off of who dunnit. The detective is a big intelligent Scotsman, his wife the attractive supernatural gypsy. Invited under false pretenses to snob of a mother's 72nd birthday party. He was actually invited to help his arse of a stepbrother to find out who killed his best friend whom is part of rock and roll royalty. Delilah a cute adorable girl gets caught in a fire and makes you get all the feels for her. This book has everything, Mystery, suspense, paranormal. I highly recommend giving this book a try.
September 24, 2023
I have read several of the books in this series. These are always solid, enjoyable stories with detective Hector McAvoy and his wife Roisin. This one focused on a murder connected to Hector’s (Aector) stepfamily. We learn a lot more about the past experiences that shaped him in this story. His mom marries into a wealthy family and his treatment by said family has left Hector very insecure.
I don’t know if it has been a while or this one was a bit darker but some of it I just did a speed read when some of the torture was described. It was not for the faint of heart.
The ending tied it all together neatly and was very plausible. Most of the characters are so unlikeable it really could have been anyone.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC to read and review. All in all, it was a satisfying read and I know I will continue the series when the next one comes out.
I don’t know if it has been a while or this one was a bit darker but some of it I just did a speed read when some of the torture was described. It was not for the faint of heart.
The ending tied it all together neatly and was very plausible. Most of the characters are so unlikeable it really could have been anyone.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC to read and review. All in all, it was a satisfying read and I know I will continue the series when the next one comes out.
December 10, 2023
After David Mark starts his latest novel with a nod to the celebrated first three words of Herman Melville's masterpiece, the first chapter of The Burning Time made me wonder if I had slipped off the page and fallen into a visceral nightmare straight out of the Derek Raymond playbook displayed in I Was Dora Suarez - there was blood, pain, death, distortion, madness, fire - and human disintegration.
Chapter two reminds readers that we are accompanying Inspector Aector McAvoy on his latest murder investigation. Bear-like McAvoy - based in Hull - and his beguiling gypsy wife Roisin, have been invited to an all-expenses-paid stay at a luxury hotel in Northumbria to celebrate the seventieth birthday of McAvoy's mother. Mater and filius have become somewhat estranged over the years, mainly due to mum dispensing with Aector's dad when her son was young, and opting for a newer, richer husband - who insisted on Aector being sent away to boarding school, causing mental scars which have not healed over the years. Aector, via this arrangement, has a step brother called Felix, older than he, and a person who subjected his younger step sibling to all kinds of mental and physical bullying back in the day. It is Felix who has organised the family gathering.
Part of the carnage in chapter one involves Ishmael Piper - a middle-aged hippy living with a twin curse, the first part being that he was the son of the late and legendary rock guitarist Moose Piper, and the second being that he is suffering from Huntington's Chorea, the degenerative disease whose most famous victim was the American musician Woody Guthrie. Ishmael inherited much of his father's wealth, guitars and memorabilia, but his life has become a protracted car crash. His life comes to an end when his remote cottage on the Northumberland moors is gutted by fire. He is found dead outside, his daughter Delilah clutching his hand, while one of his female companions, asleep in an upstairs room, is the second fatality. Delilah has been badly burned. Later, McAvoy sees her:
'He wants to look away; to jerk back - to not have to see what the flame has done on half of her face. He thinks of wormholes at low tide. He can't help himself: his imagination floods with memories; so many twisted worm-casts in the soft grainy sand.'
McAvoy is an intriguing creation. He is physically massive, but suffers from debilitating shyness and a chronic lack of social confidence. He is, however, formidably intelligent and a very, very good policeman. Crime fiction buffs will know that there is a certain trope in police novels, where the newly promoted detective becomes frustrated with paper work, and longs to be out on the street catching villains. McAvoy is more nuanced:
'It always surprises his colleagues to realise that, in a perfect world, McAvoy would never leave the safety of his little office cubicle at Clough Road Police Station.'
The Puccini aria from Tosca, Recondita Armonia, can be translated as 'strange harmony', and no harmony is stranger than that between McAvoy and his wife Roisin. They share a fierce intelligence, but David Mark portrays her as slender, captivatingly beautiful and blessed - or cursed - with an intuition and silver tongue inherited from her Irish gypsy ancestors, and a dramatic contrast to her physically imposing but socially gauche husband.
McAvoy realises that he has been invited to the family gathering, not out of any desire for reconciliation, but because Felix wants him to find out the truth behind Ishmael's death, a task at which the local police have failed. McAvoy, of course - after bouts of epic violence involving various bit-players in the drama - does find the killer, but in doing so illustrates that the birthday party was nothing other than a bitter charade. The Burning Time - a powerful and sometimes disturbing read - is published by Severn House and is available now.
Chapter two reminds readers that we are accompanying Inspector Aector McAvoy on his latest murder investigation. Bear-like McAvoy - based in Hull - and his beguiling gypsy wife Roisin, have been invited to an all-expenses-paid stay at a luxury hotel in Northumbria to celebrate the seventieth birthday of McAvoy's mother. Mater and filius have become somewhat estranged over the years, mainly due to mum dispensing with Aector's dad when her son was young, and opting for a newer, richer husband - who insisted on Aector being sent away to boarding school, causing mental scars which have not healed over the years. Aector, via this arrangement, has a step brother called Felix, older than he, and a person who subjected his younger step sibling to all kinds of mental and physical bullying back in the day. It is Felix who has organised the family gathering.
Part of the carnage in chapter one involves Ishmael Piper - a middle-aged hippy living with a twin curse, the first part being that he was the son of the late and legendary rock guitarist Moose Piper, and the second being that he is suffering from Huntington's Chorea, the degenerative disease whose most famous victim was the American musician Woody Guthrie. Ishmael inherited much of his father's wealth, guitars and memorabilia, but his life has become a protracted car crash. His life comes to an end when his remote cottage on the Northumberland moors is gutted by fire. He is found dead outside, his daughter Delilah clutching his hand, while one of his female companions, asleep in an upstairs room, is the second fatality. Delilah has been badly burned. Later, McAvoy sees her:
'He wants to look away; to jerk back - to not have to see what the flame has done on half of her face. He thinks of wormholes at low tide. He can't help himself: his imagination floods with memories; so many twisted worm-casts in the soft grainy sand.'
McAvoy is an intriguing creation. He is physically massive, but suffers from debilitating shyness and a chronic lack of social confidence. He is, however, formidably intelligent and a very, very good policeman. Crime fiction buffs will know that there is a certain trope in police novels, where the newly promoted detective becomes frustrated with paper work, and longs to be out on the street catching villains. McAvoy is more nuanced:
'It always surprises his colleagues to realise that, in a perfect world, McAvoy would never leave the safety of his little office cubicle at Clough Road Police Station.'
The Puccini aria from Tosca, Recondita Armonia, can be translated as 'strange harmony', and no harmony is stranger than that between McAvoy and his wife Roisin. They share a fierce intelligence, but David Mark portrays her as slender, captivatingly beautiful and blessed - or cursed - with an intuition and silver tongue inherited from her Irish gypsy ancestors, and a dramatic contrast to her physically imposing but socially gauche husband.
McAvoy realises that he has been invited to the family gathering, not out of any desire for reconciliation, but because Felix wants him to find out the truth behind Ishmael's death, a task at which the local police have failed. McAvoy, of course - after bouts of epic violence involving various bit-players in the drama - does find the killer, but in doing so illustrates that the birthday party was nothing other than a bitter charade. The Burning Time - a powerful and sometimes disturbing read - is published by Severn House and is available now.
December 4, 2023
If you’ve visited this blog before, you may know that I’m a big fan of David Mark’s writing. So much so that I aim to read everything he writes. It is visceral, this writing, can be downright gory at times, often medieval in its violence, but mainly it makes you feel – rips your emotions apart and then pummels them around a lot while telling you his story. The Burning Time is no exception.
The Burning Time is very much a part of Aector’s personal story. He’s finally been promoted to D.I. and, against his better judgement, he has allowed Roisin – whom he can never resist – to persuade him into attending his mother, Celia’s surprise 70th birthday party at a posh Durham Hotel. It’s an all-expenses paid trip but Aector doesn’t like his family – and we are about to find out why.
David Mark pulls us into a dark, charged environment where nothing is quite as it seems and no-one is who they want the world to see them as.
Aector’s step-brother Felix is the host at this surprise birthday party and as Aector and Roisin arrive at their hotel, Aector knows he’s really not looking forward to any of it. He doesn’t like his family and the reasons for that become clear as the book progresses.
It doesn’t take too long before Aector discovers that Felix has an ulterior motive for inviting Aector to stay, but even before that comes to light Aector meets seven year old Delilah, a disfigured child who was badly burnt when her father Ishmael, died in a terrible fire.
How McAvoy deals with Delilah is heart-breaking and sincere. Here is a six and a half foot man at his most tender and it is this encounter, more than anything else that happens, that lets you understand the kind of man that Aector is.
Ishmael Piper was a close friend of Felix and the son of internationally renowned rock legend Moose Piper. He lived in a fug of drugs with Delilah and his partner, Heloise, when he and Heloise were burnt to death. Delilh escaped, but with the difigurement that now scars her face.
Big Harry, a local hotel worker, tells McAvoy how devastated Felix was and is about Ishmael’s death. Felix thinks it may have been a deliberate killing, because Ishmael had inherited his father’s money and was forever promising people that he would remember them in his will.
Against his better judgement, McAvoy is drawn into looking at this case. Meanwhile, we are made aware of other, very disturbing events. Somewhere, a man is slowly and deliberately killing a woman, believing her to be possessed of demonic spirits.
At the same time Felix’s daughter, Petra is making out with the local drug dealer, Deon and Felix is less than delighted.
A multi-faceted story line is threaded through with the personal details that show us exactly how McAvoy became the man he is today and why Roisin is exactly the right woman for him. Because when you strip this story down, what you are left with, is a strong and deeply affecting love story that you know is the kind of love that will hold against tempests, wars and any number of rampaging serial killers.
The Burning Time is a dark and often violent read and the characters portrayed are vivid and memorable. It’s a very well told story of murder, madness and greed and I enjoyed it for all those reasons. But what I take away from it is quite different; that is the abiding power of the love between Aector and Roisin; two people who belong together more than should be possible.
It’s that love that makes McAvoy fight when things are at their bleakest; it’s what keeps him alive when death is on his doorstep. I envy him.
Verdict: With excellent storytelling, great characters and a twisty, violent plot, this is another terrific read from David Mark. But that love story – just remarkable.
The Burning Time is very much a part of Aector’s personal story. He’s finally been promoted to D.I. and, against his better judgement, he has allowed Roisin – whom he can never resist – to persuade him into attending his mother, Celia’s surprise 70th birthday party at a posh Durham Hotel. It’s an all-expenses paid trip but Aector doesn’t like his family – and we are about to find out why.
David Mark pulls us into a dark, charged environment where nothing is quite as it seems and no-one is who they want the world to see them as.
Aector’s step-brother Felix is the host at this surprise birthday party and as Aector and Roisin arrive at their hotel, Aector knows he’s really not looking forward to any of it. He doesn’t like his family and the reasons for that become clear as the book progresses.
It doesn’t take too long before Aector discovers that Felix has an ulterior motive for inviting Aector to stay, but even before that comes to light Aector meets seven year old Delilah, a disfigured child who was badly burnt when her father Ishmael, died in a terrible fire.
How McAvoy deals with Delilah is heart-breaking and sincere. Here is a six and a half foot man at his most tender and it is this encounter, more than anything else that happens, that lets you understand the kind of man that Aector is.
Ishmael Piper was a close friend of Felix and the son of internationally renowned rock legend Moose Piper. He lived in a fug of drugs with Delilah and his partner, Heloise, when he and Heloise were burnt to death. Delilh escaped, but with the difigurement that now scars her face.
Big Harry, a local hotel worker, tells McAvoy how devastated Felix was and is about Ishmael’s death. Felix thinks it may have been a deliberate killing, because Ishmael had inherited his father’s money and was forever promising people that he would remember them in his will.
Against his better judgement, McAvoy is drawn into looking at this case. Meanwhile, we are made aware of other, very disturbing events. Somewhere, a man is slowly and deliberately killing a woman, believing her to be possessed of demonic spirits.
At the same time Felix’s daughter, Petra is making out with the local drug dealer, Deon and Felix is less than delighted.
A multi-faceted story line is threaded through with the personal details that show us exactly how McAvoy became the man he is today and why Roisin is exactly the right woman for him. Because when you strip this story down, what you are left with, is a strong and deeply affecting love story that you know is the kind of love that will hold against tempests, wars and any number of rampaging serial killers.
The Burning Time is a dark and often violent read and the characters portrayed are vivid and memorable. It’s a very well told story of murder, madness and greed and I enjoyed it for all those reasons. But what I take away from it is quite different; that is the abiding power of the love between Aector and Roisin; two people who belong together more than should be possible.
It’s that love that makes McAvoy fight when things are at their bleakest; it’s what keeps him alive when death is on his doorstep. I envy him.
Verdict: With excellent storytelling, great characters and a twisty, violent plot, this is another terrific read from David Mark. But that love story – just remarkable.
November 18, 2023
3.5 Stars..
The Burning Time is number 12 in the DS Aector McAvoy series. Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House Publishers for the opportunity to read an early ARC. David Mark has become one of my favourite writers of thrillers since learning about his books online. I have read some early books in this series and his excellent standalone books.
The beginning is weird and confusing, but all becomes clear later in the story. This was a suspenseful, dark and grim book with an eerie touch of the paranormal. Some of the characters are adherents to the belief in black magic, spells and curses, the occult, and witchcraft. The title "The Burning Time " refers to the era when accused witches were burned.
DS Aector McAvoy is off-duty, recovering from a recent painful series of work-related injuries. He is married to a beautiful Romani woman, Roisin, who helps soothe his troubled moods. She has a touch of supernatural awareness. They receive an invitation to McAvoy's mother's upcoming birthday party, hosted by his stepbrother Felix. McAvoy dreads attending as he has been long-estranged from his mother and Felix. He resents how badly they treated him when he was young, and this has caused feelings of insecurity and McAvoy's lasting, troubled moods. Since the invitation included an all-expense stay at a luxury hotel, the couple decided to attend for the chance to relax at the upscale hotel and use the trip as a holiday while still dreading the birthday party with the family of snobs.
I found the book well-written and thrilling, as usual. It was darker than earlier books, with changes in tone and mood throughout. There are gruesome, disturbing descriptions of torture and intended torture, and a previous assumed murder. I found the chapters too long, and the descriptions were wordy but well-written.
When McAvoy and Roisin arrive at the grand, upscale hotel, they become aware of rumours that he is there to solve a murder for Felix, his stepbrother. As the rumours spread, McAvoy's life is in danger. Almost nothing is said about an upcoming birthday party. Felix is overcome with grief and obsessed that his best friend, Ishmael, was murdered and wants the killer found and punished. Ishmael was the popular millionaire son of one of the most renowned and famous rock stars. Both he and his father believed in demons. Ishmael's home was set on fire, causing his death. His young daughter survived but was badly burned. Ishmael promised to leave parts of his inheritance to many of his friends when he died. Could this be a motive for murder?
Some additional characters are Big Harry, a friendly hotel worker who loves local gossip; Petra, Felix's 14-year-old daughter, who is attracted to bad boys; Ingle, who believes a witch has cursed him, making him suffer; and Deon, a young thief and drug dealer. It is unclear whether the murder was for money or if paranormal beliefs were a factor. There are many suspects, and McAvoy is reluctantly drawn into the mystery as he learns many secrets.
Recommended for fans of mysterious crimes, intriguing characters, and a troubled, resourceful, and likeable detective. I wish McAvoy had been given a chance to recover from previous injuries before being wounded again. Publication is set for December 5.
The Burning Time is number 12 in the DS Aector McAvoy series. Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House Publishers for the opportunity to read an early ARC. David Mark has become one of my favourite writers of thrillers since learning about his books online. I have read some early books in this series and his excellent standalone books.
The beginning is weird and confusing, but all becomes clear later in the story. This was a suspenseful, dark and grim book with an eerie touch of the paranormal. Some of the characters are adherents to the belief in black magic, spells and curses, the occult, and witchcraft. The title "The Burning Time " refers to the era when accused witches were burned.
DS Aector McAvoy is off-duty, recovering from a recent painful series of work-related injuries. He is married to a beautiful Romani woman, Roisin, who helps soothe his troubled moods. She has a touch of supernatural awareness. They receive an invitation to McAvoy's mother's upcoming birthday party, hosted by his stepbrother Felix. McAvoy dreads attending as he has been long-estranged from his mother and Felix. He resents how badly they treated him when he was young, and this has caused feelings of insecurity and McAvoy's lasting, troubled moods. Since the invitation included an all-expense stay at a luxury hotel, the couple decided to attend for the chance to relax at the upscale hotel and use the trip as a holiday while still dreading the birthday party with the family of snobs.
I found the book well-written and thrilling, as usual. It was darker than earlier books, with changes in tone and mood throughout. There are gruesome, disturbing descriptions of torture and intended torture, and a previous assumed murder. I found the chapters too long, and the descriptions were wordy but well-written.
When McAvoy and Roisin arrive at the grand, upscale hotel, they become aware of rumours that he is there to solve a murder for Felix, his stepbrother. As the rumours spread, McAvoy's life is in danger. Almost nothing is said about an upcoming birthday party. Felix is overcome with grief and obsessed that his best friend, Ishmael, was murdered and wants the killer found and punished. Ishmael was the popular millionaire son of one of the most renowned and famous rock stars. Both he and his father believed in demons. Ishmael's home was set on fire, causing his death. His young daughter survived but was badly burned. Ishmael promised to leave parts of his inheritance to many of his friends when he died. Could this be a motive for murder?
Some additional characters are Big Harry, a friendly hotel worker who loves local gossip; Petra, Felix's 14-year-old daughter, who is attracted to bad boys; Ingle, who believes a witch has cursed him, making him suffer; and Deon, a young thief and drug dealer. It is unclear whether the murder was for money or if paranormal beliefs were a factor. There are many suspects, and McAvoy is reluctantly drawn into the mystery as he learns many secrets.
Recommended for fans of mysterious crimes, intriguing characters, and a troubled, resourceful, and likeable detective. I wish McAvoy had been given a chance to recover from previous injuries before being wounded again. Publication is set for December 5.
November 15, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Severn House Publishers for an advance copy of The Burning Time, the twelfth novel to feature newly minted DI Aector McAvoy of Humberside Police.
Roísin accepts an invitation to Aector’s estranged mother’s seventieth birthday party in County Durham. She thinks that they need a luxury break, but it doesn’t turn out that way as Aector gets involuntarily involved in the strange death of Ishmael Pope, son of a millionaire rockstar and best friend of Aector’s estranged stepbrother, Felix Darling.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Burning Time, which has the trappings of the esoteric, but a more mundane motive. I’m not given to awarding 5 stars, as I like to save that for the special reads that I don’t want to put down and rush back to if I have to leave it. This is one of those reads. It has a bit of everything, interesting plot, twists, strange characters, annother beating and a further look at Aector and his troubled personality.
Ishmael Pope is dead and his house burned down. Accident or murder, no one is quite sure, although Felix is sure it is murder and he has the means and influence to insist on an investigation. Aector suspects Felix is behind his invitation with the aim of coercing him into investigating and he’s not happy. Events overtake him and he ends up involved. There is a real sense of nebulousness in this novel, where nothing is clear, right down to doubt that his mother will turn up for the party. What comes through is the damage done to Aector in his childhood and the love he and Roísin share,
There is a lot of talk about witchcraft and spells in this novel. Ishmael may have had an interest and one of his girlfriends definitely did, as did one of the suspects. When the author gets down to business it’s all about motive and opportunity and it’s Roísin leading the charge. I was glued to the pages, falling for the misdirection and loving the twists.
The Burning Time is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Roísin accepts an invitation to Aector’s estranged mother’s seventieth birthday party in County Durham. She thinks that they need a luxury break, but it doesn’t turn out that way as Aector gets involuntarily involved in the strange death of Ishmael Pope, son of a millionaire rockstar and best friend of Aector’s estranged stepbrother, Felix Darling.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Burning Time, which has the trappings of the esoteric, but a more mundane motive. I’m not given to awarding 5 stars, as I like to save that for the special reads that I don’t want to put down and rush back to if I have to leave it. This is one of those reads. It has a bit of everything, interesting plot, twists, strange characters, annother beating and a further look at Aector and his troubled personality.
Ishmael Pope is dead and his house burned down. Accident or murder, no one is quite sure, although Felix is sure it is murder and he has the means and influence to insist on an investigation. Aector suspects Felix is behind his invitation with the aim of coercing him into investigating and he’s not happy. Events overtake him and he ends up involved. There is a real sense of nebulousness in this novel, where nothing is clear, right down to doubt that his mother will turn up for the party. What comes through is the damage done to Aector in his childhood and the love he and Roísin share,
There is a lot of talk about witchcraft and spells in this novel. Ishmael may have had an interest and one of his girlfriends definitely did, as did one of the suspects. When the author gets down to business it’s all about motive and opportunity and it’s Roísin leading the charge. I was glued to the pages, falling for the misdirection and loving the twists.
The Burning Time is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
December 17, 2024
"The Burning Time" is David Mark's 12th in the Aector McAvoy series. DS McAvoy, recovering from injuries received in his previous escapade, is invited by his estranged half-brother to a fancy birthday celebration in Durham for his mother. His beautiful wife Roisin accompanies him to a social situation he dreads having to attend. Little did he know that he will find himself in the middle of some very dangerous activity.
The main action in the book is focused on the odd circumstances surrounding the death of Ishmael, a local man who Felix, Aector's rich half-brother, had befriended. Ishmael, the son of a famous rock star, was once a well liked man-about-town who had inherited money from his dad and liked to spread it around. Unfortunately, with health issues and drug use he'd become enamored of the occult and had turned his home into a bizarre collection of weird objects and people. He's killed in a fire there along with his wife and his daughter is severely burned. The cops classified the fire as an accident, but most think it wasn't and had likely been caused by one of the many locals who would benefit financially from Ishmael's death. Although Aector had been summoned to Durham ostensibly to attend a party, he's really there to figure out who killed Ishmael and why he or she did it.
The Burning Time, to be honest, has a lot more occult/witchcraft-related content that I'd normally be comfortable with, but I'm such a fan of David Mark that I soldiered through and I'm glad I did. McAvoy is a great character and Mark does a fine job examining his background and how it affects his work. His wife, Roisin, is likewise an important piece of the story and Mark develops her character quite well as she's nearly co-equal to her husband in bringing the mystery to a conclusion. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
The main action in the book is focused on the odd circumstances surrounding the death of Ishmael, a local man who Felix, Aector's rich half-brother, had befriended. Ishmael, the son of a famous rock star, was once a well liked man-about-town who had inherited money from his dad and liked to spread it around. Unfortunately, with health issues and drug use he'd become enamored of the occult and had turned his home into a bizarre collection of weird objects and people. He's killed in a fire there along with his wife and his daughter is severely burned. The cops classified the fire as an accident, but most think it wasn't and had likely been caused by one of the many locals who would benefit financially from Ishmael's death. Although Aector had been summoned to Durham ostensibly to attend a party, he's really there to figure out who killed Ishmael and why he or she did it.
The Burning Time, to be honest, has a lot more occult/witchcraft-related content that I'd normally be comfortable with, but I'm such a fan of David Mark that I soldiered through and I'm glad I did. McAvoy is a great character and Mark does a fine job examining his background and how it affects his work. His wife, Roisin, is likewise an important piece of the story and Mark develops her character quite well as she's nearly co-equal to her husband in bringing the mystery to a conclusion. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
November 26, 2023
‘Call him Ishmael.’
An unexpected invitation. A horrible incident. DI Aector McAvoy receives the first and becomes caught up in the second. Aector and his wife Roísin are invited to his estranged mother’s surprise 70th birthday party. As the birthday party surprise involves an all-expenses paid stay at a fancy hotel in Durham, Aector accepts. There’s history there: Aector has never got on with his stepfamily, and there seem to be grudges held on both sides. But this trip will not be the relaxing holiday Aector and Roísin were hoping for. Not long after their arrival they become caught up in the death of Ishmael Piper, millionaire son of rockstar Moose Piper and best friend of Aector’s stepbrother Felix Darling.
Ishmael’s house burned down with him inside. Was Ishmael’s death a tragic accident or was he murdered? The town seems divided between those who think Ishmael was murdered (and plenty of opinions as to who) and those who see his death as an unfortunate but inevitable accident.
There is nothing straightforward in this case. Aector himself is in danger, there are several weird characters, a hint or two of witchcraft and several twists in the tale. At various stages I thought it unlikely that there would be a thirteenth instalment in this series (I hope there is). I should have had more confidence in both Aector and his indomitable wife, Roísin.
A terrific addition to a fine series!
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
An unexpected invitation. A horrible incident. DI Aector McAvoy receives the first and becomes caught up in the second. Aector and his wife Roísin are invited to his estranged mother’s surprise 70th birthday party. As the birthday party surprise involves an all-expenses paid stay at a fancy hotel in Durham, Aector accepts. There’s history there: Aector has never got on with his stepfamily, and there seem to be grudges held on both sides. But this trip will not be the relaxing holiday Aector and Roísin were hoping for. Not long after their arrival they become caught up in the death of Ishmael Piper, millionaire son of rockstar Moose Piper and best friend of Aector’s stepbrother Felix Darling.
Ishmael’s house burned down with him inside. Was Ishmael’s death a tragic accident or was he murdered? The town seems divided between those who think Ishmael was murdered (and plenty of opinions as to who) and those who see his death as an unfortunate but inevitable accident.
There is nothing straightforward in this case. Aector himself is in danger, there are several weird characters, a hint or two of witchcraft and several twists in the tale. At various stages I thought it unlikely that there would be a thirteenth instalment in this series (I hope there is). I should have had more confidence in both Aector and his indomitable wife, Roísin.
A terrific addition to a fine series!
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
December 17, 2023
This is the latest book in the Detective Aector McAvoy series and is the story of a visit to Aector’s estranged family to celebrate his Mother’s birthday. This turns into a murder investigation when he gets involved looking into the suspicious death of his step brother’s wealthy friend. There was also a supernatural element which I must admit did not really seem to have much to do with the main plot and did not appeal to me.
Unfortunately this was not a book I particularly enjoyed and it very didn’t hold my attention, meaning that I skim read several sections.The first few chapters were very muddled with so many characters that I could not keep track of who they all were.
I was at the point of giving up but having read the earlier books which I thoroughly enjoyed I was loath to not finish this one. There was also a lot of unnecessary violence which I did not particularly like.
I didn’t really warm to any of characters apart from Aector and Roisin, his wife, who had a larger role than in the previous novels. The sections about Aector’s childhood were interesting as they explained some of his character traits and I liked the interaction between the two of them, demonstrating their depth of feeling for each other.
I’m not sure what it was but “The Burning Time”was not the book for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Unfortunately this was not a book I particularly enjoyed and it very didn’t hold my attention, meaning that I skim read several sections.The first few chapters were very muddled with so many characters that I could not keep track of who they all were.
I was at the point of giving up but having read the earlier books which I thoroughly enjoyed I was loath to not finish this one. There was also a lot of unnecessary violence which I did not particularly like.
I didn’t really warm to any of characters apart from Aector and Roisin, his wife, who had a larger role than in the previous novels. The sections about Aector’s childhood were interesting as they explained some of his character traits and I liked the interaction between the two of them, demonstrating their depth of feeling for each other.
I’m not sure what it was but “The Burning Time”was not the book for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
May 9, 2025
"The Burning Time" is a dark and atmospheric crime fiction novel, the twelfth in the DS Aector McAvoy series. The story begins with McAvoy and his Roisin attending his estranged mother's birthday celebration at a luxurious hotel, an invitation orchestrated by his bullying step-brother. This seemingly unwelcome family gathering quickly transforms into a murder investigation when a rock star's son and the step-brother's friend die tragically. The writing style is polished and creates a sense of unease and dread. McAvoy is portrayed as a complex and intriguing protagonist, physically imposing yet socially shy and exceptionally intelligent. His wife plays an integral role, offering intuition and emotional support. The initial introduction of a large cast of characters may be confusing to most readers. The writing style is dark, with references to witchcraft and the paranormal, and gruesome torture scenes. Fans of dark and twisted mysteries will likely find this instalment a satisfying read due to its intriguing plot and well-developed central characters. But this is a book that is best avoided by the average reader.
Thank you for providing this book for review through Edelweiss. All opinions are my own.
Thank you for providing this book for review through Edelweiss. All opinions are my own.
September 20, 2023
David Mark's books always come up on my "recommended reading for you" lists and I've never tried them before. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher I was in a position to try this book. Glad I did.
DS Aector McAvoy is on leave from his policing job thanks to some nasty injuries incurred in the previous book. He and Roisin, his lovely and charismatic wife, are invited to his mother and stepfather's anniversary hosted by his stepbrother. A rather unexpected invite as Aector is estranged from them. Upon arrival at the small village near his stepbrother's, hints start being dropped that Aector is really there to solve the unexplained death of Ishmael Piper, millionaire son of a deceased rock star and his stepbrother's best friend. Aector tries his best not to become involved but trouble can't leave him alone.
There's alot in the book about Aector's youth and his complicated family relations. Gives alot of insight into his character. Lots of twists and turns, and the solution was not so easy to figure out. All in all a good book.
DS Aector McAvoy is on leave from his policing job thanks to some nasty injuries incurred in the previous book. He and Roisin, his lovely and charismatic wife, are invited to his mother and stepfather's anniversary hosted by his stepbrother. A rather unexpected invite as Aector is estranged from them. Upon arrival at the small village near his stepbrother's, hints start being dropped that Aector is really there to solve the unexplained death of Ishmael Piper, millionaire son of a deceased rock star and his stepbrother's best friend. Aector tries his best not to become involved but trouble can't leave him alone.
There's alot in the book about Aector's youth and his complicated family relations. Gives alot of insight into his character. Lots of twists and turns, and the solution was not so easy to figure out. All in all a good book.
October 23, 2023
With thanks to Severn House and the author and Netgalley for this advanced readers copy. This is the first Aector McAvoy story I have read so did not have any preconceptions about the story. McAvoy travels to attend a family party when he and his wife get caught up in a murder. The first chapter made me think of Edgar Allen Poe with its tone. Subsequent chapters swoop all over the place with their tone. That said if was an engrossing story although the fact I have not read previous books made it harder for me to understand the main character McAvoy. It was an engrossing book if a bit dark for me and I prefer slightly less description of violence and bad language. I would still recommend this book to lovers of police procedural.
February 7, 2024
No one writes crime thrillers better than David Mark. All his books deserve five ***** star reviews. And then some.
Aector and Roisin McAvoy are once again centre stage in this new mystery which gripped me right from the very first page.
David Mark doesn't just create dark and disturbing plots. He understands the darkness which can't always be contained beyond the veil and sometimes seeps into this world with devastating consequences. He creates an evocative layer of dread and unease where the supernatural suddenly becomes all too credible.
The characterisation is stunning. I have to admit I more than once found myself with lots of empathy for one of the bad guys. The denouement was unexpected and extremely clever.
Aector and Roisin McAvoy are once again centre stage in this new mystery which gripped me right from the very first page.
David Mark doesn't just create dark and disturbing plots. He understands the darkness which can't always be contained beyond the veil and sometimes seeps into this world with devastating consequences. He creates an evocative layer of dread and unease where the supernatural suddenly becomes all too credible.
The characterisation is stunning. I have to admit I more than once found myself with lots of empathy for one of the bad guys. The denouement was unexpected and extremely clever.
February 7, 2024
No one writes crime thrillers better than David Mark. All his books deserve five ***** star reviews. And then some.
Aector and Roisin McAvoy are once again centre stage in this new mystery which gripped me right from the very first page.
David Mark doesn't just create dark and disturbing plots. He understands the darkness which can't always be contained beyond the veil and sometimes seeps into this world with devastating consequences. He creates an evocative layer of dread and unease where the supernatural suddenly becomes all too credible.
The characterisation is stunning. I have to admit I more than once found myself with lots of empathy for one of the bad guys. The denouement was unexpected and extremely clever.
Aector and Roisin McAvoy are once again centre stage in this new mystery which gripped me right from the very first page.
David Mark doesn't just create dark and disturbing plots. He understands the darkness which can't always be contained beyond the veil and sometimes seeps into this world with devastating consequences. He creates an evocative layer of dread and unease where the supernatural suddenly becomes all too credible.
The characterisation is stunning. I have to admit I more than once found myself with lots of empathy for one of the bad guys. The denouement was unexpected and extremely clever.
November 11, 2023
I've only read one of this long running series so this was more less a standalone for me but Mark made it feel like I was totally up to speed on everyone and everything. DS Aector McAvoy and his wife Roisin find themselves wrapped up in a murder mystery when they, reluctantly, on his part, go to his mother's birthday party- a party hosted by his step brother. Turns out his stepbrother wants him to solve the murder of Ishmael, his best friend. Aector's difficult family history and childhood looms large but the mood is lightened by Roisin, a Romani with, shall we say supernatural powers. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. This is less gritty than twisty and it makes for a good read.
September 19, 2023
0 pages
3 and 1 / 2 stars
This book is very dark. Slow to start, it did pick up the pace as time went by.
I really like the relationship between DI Aector McAvoy and his wife, Roisin. It was very nice to get to know her better. She turned out to be quite the crusader. I enjoyed that aspect of her personality.
I didn’t care for this book as much as I did the previous novels.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions stated in this review are solely my own.
3 and 1 / 2 stars
This book is very dark. Slow to start, it did pick up the pace as time went by.
I really like the relationship between DI Aector McAvoy and his wife, Roisin. It was very nice to get to know her better. She turned out to be quite the crusader. I enjoyed that aspect of her personality.
I didn’t care for this book as much as I did the previous novels.
I want to thank NetGalley and Severn House for forwarding to me a copy of this book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions stated in this review are solely my own.
November 16, 2023
Newly promoted DI Aector Mc Avoy is a fascinating character, I think I love him! I really enjoyed this book despite it being a bit confusing to start with. The formatting didn't really help, with too many words being crammed on to each page. That aside, the plotting was centred around the paranormal, a touch of the occult and some witchcraft. There are some graphic scenes of violence but I absolutely loved the rollercoaster ride and would recommend the read to fans of the genre. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
January 22, 2024
Aector McAvoy #12 and although this is one of my favorite series, this was the 2nd straight that has disappointed me. Aector and wife, Roison, get called to a posh castle for a birthday party for his estranged mother but the trip turns into much more when he finds himself in the middle of the suspicious death of a rock star's son, who was best friends with Aector's stepbrother. Lots of witchcraft and misdirection and the plot and the various characters never really hit home with me.
September 19, 2023
A great read as always. A little different as Trish Pharoah was only mentioned in passing. Was good to learn more about Aector's family and get to know Roisin a little better. Lok forward to the next one.
December 13, 2023
This was a fast paced well written thriller but just not one that I really enjoyed. It may have been the touch of the supernatural which is always a turn off for me. However I do think a lot of readers will enjoy the plot and characters.
September 18, 2023
The Burning Time is a dark mystery. Great characters, it was a quick read for me, and disturbing. Well done
December 9, 2023
Great.
Another great Aector McAvoy novel. I absolutely love this series. It never disappoints. Love the magic overtones. Keep writing David Mark.
Another great Aector McAvoy novel. I absolutely love this series. It never disappoints. Love the magic overtones. Keep writing David Mark.
May 10, 2024
3.5, another in the McAvoy series. Not one of the best ones, but the writing is still a lot better than most of the stuff out there.
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