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The Darkest Water
In this chilling thriller from the bestselling author of Keep Her Secret, if you don’t take your dark secrets to the grave, maybe they’ll take you there first…
Calvin finally owns the bakery of his dreams, in an idyllic village in the Lake District. After reluctantly following his wife Vicky’s advice to promote it on social media, he’s thrilled when a viral clip makes him a legend overnight. But then the creepy DMs start flooding in—all from a stranger who claims she’s his biggest fan.
Meanwhile, a local recluse is found on a nearby beach, buried to his neck and left to drown, and the community goes into shock. Why would anyone want him dead? And who exactly was he? Detective Imogen Evans, new to the Lake District, is under pressure to find out before the killer strikes again.
As the murder hunt gathers pace, Calvin’s obsessive admirer turns up right on cue after his assistant is injured in an accident, and to Vicky’s horror she’s here to stay. As events begin spiralling into darkness, is there anyone in this quiet backwater Calvin can trust—or have his mistakes already put him, and everyone he loves, in terrible danger?
Calvin finally owns the bakery of his dreams, in an idyllic village in the Lake District. After reluctantly following his wife Vicky’s advice to promote it on social media, he’s thrilled when a viral clip makes him a legend overnight. But then the creepy DMs start flooding in—all from a stranger who claims she’s his biggest fan.
Meanwhile, a local recluse is found on a nearby beach, buried to his neck and left to drown, and the community goes into shock. Why would anyone want him dead? And who exactly was he? Detective Imogen Evans, new to the Lake District, is under pressure to find out before the killer strikes again.
As the murder hunt gathers pace, Calvin’s obsessive admirer turns up right on cue after his assistant is injured in an accident, and to Vicky’s horror she’s here to stay. As events begin spiralling into darkness, is there anyone in this quiet backwater Calvin can trust—or have his mistakes already put him, and everyone he loves, in terrible danger?
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2024
1374 people are currently reading
10141 people want to read
About the author
Mark Edwards
36 books5,976 followersMark Edwards writes psychological thrillers in which scary things happen to ordinary people.
He loves hearing from readers and always responds. Mark can be contacted in the following ways:
Email: mark@markedwardsauthor.com
Twitter @mredwards
Facebook/Instagram: @markedwardsauthor
You can download a free box set of 'Short Sharp Shockers' by visiting www.markedwardsauthor.com/free
Mark has sold over 5 million books since his first solo novel, The Magpies, was published in 2013 and has topped the bestseller lists numerous times. His other novels include Follow You Home, Here To Stay and The Psychopath Next Door. He has also published six books co-authored with Louise Voss. His next novel, The Wasp Trap, will be published in the UK/Australia in July 2025 and the US/Canada in September 2025.
Mark lives in the West Midlands, England, with his wife, their three children, two cats and a golden retriever.
He loves hearing from readers and always responds. Mark can be contacted in the following ways:
Email: mark@markedwardsauthor.com
Twitter @mredwards
Facebook/Instagram: @markedwardsauthor
You can download a free box set of 'Short Sharp Shockers' by visiting www.markedwardsauthor.com/free
Mark has sold over 5 million books since his first solo novel, The Magpies, was published in 2013 and has topped the bestseller lists numerous times. His other novels include Follow You Home, Here To Stay and The Psychopath Next Door. He has also published six books co-authored with Louise Voss. His next novel, The Wasp Trap, will be published in the UK/Australia in July 2025 and the US/Canada in September 2025.
Mark lives in the West Midlands, England, with his wife, their three children, two cats and a golden retriever.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
January 31, 2024
My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
A lot is happening in this story, bodies turning up on beaches, murders in trailers, kidnappings, animals let loose, stalking and car crashes so I don't know where to begin with this review. It was just so crazy and over the top and not in a good way. I honestly kept thinking to myself "This is just stupid".
The story started out okay and I was engaged for the most part. I liked the two timelines with one in the present and then flashbacks to 1995...but I hated the protagonist, Calvin, from the beginning and didn't understand why he did some of the really stupid things he did. He didn't check references of someone he hires for his business, someone who gives his wife the creeps and it's not like she's a friend or family member even?!? And to get addicted to social media after one post? This was plain weird all the way through.
There are a lot of threads in the plot and they all link together in some weird way by the end BUT there were just too many coincidences and too much unbelieveability to look past. And don't let me get started on a detective letting a past crime go..."we're all good here"...that didn't sit well with me. I have liked a couple of other books by this author so I don't know what's going on with this one. Maybe it's me because thrillers just seem to be getting more and more ridiculous lately, like those horror movies where the stupid teenage girl goes down the dark basement stairs.
Please take my review with a grain of salt as this book has a 4.44 GR rating at the time of this review. I don't know how, but it does. I think readers have an author they like and give books four and five stars regardless of how good the book is, but that's just my humble opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Storygraph and The Book Review Crew Blog
A lot is happening in this story, bodies turning up on beaches, murders in trailers, kidnappings, animals let loose, stalking and car crashes so I don't know where to begin with this review. It was just so crazy and over the top and not in a good way. I honestly kept thinking to myself "This is just stupid".
The story started out okay and I was engaged for the most part. I liked the two timelines with one in the present and then flashbacks to 1995...but I hated the protagonist, Calvin, from the beginning and didn't understand why he did some of the really stupid things he did. He didn't check references of someone he hires for his business, someone who gives his wife the creeps and it's not like she's a friend or family member even?!? And to get addicted to social media after one post? This was plain weird all the way through.
There are a lot of threads in the plot and they all link together in some weird way by the end BUT there were just too many coincidences and too much unbelieveability to look past. And don't let me get started on a detective letting a past crime go..."we're all good here"...that didn't sit well with me. I have liked a couple of other books by this author so I don't know what's going on with this one. Maybe it's me because thrillers just seem to be getting more and more ridiculous lately, like those horror movies where the stupid teenage girl goes down the dark basement stairs.
Please take my review with a grain of salt as this book has a 4.44 GR rating at the time of this review. I don't know how, but it does. I think readers have an author they like and give books four and five stars regardless of how good the book is, but that's just my humble opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
April 4, 2024
Messy
2.5 stars
The Darkest Water is a thriller about a social media stalker, a missing woman, and a murderer.
Struggling bakery owner Calvin heeds his wife's advice and reluctantly posts about his shop on social media. Shortly after, an innocent DM exchange introduces Calvin to a potential social media stalker.
At the same time, Detective Imogen Evans finds herself investigating the murder of a mysterious man.
Chapters alternate between Calvin and Imogen. Calvin is a clueless idiot, and I had to spend time alternating between rolling my eyes at his stupid decisions and yelling at him. Thankfully, Imogen, a main character in Edwards's The Lucky One , is intelligent, and her chapters are less chaotic than Calvin's. While I hope never to see Calvin again, I would be okay with another of Edwards' books featuring Imogene.
The plot has two timelines, one in the present and one in 1995. The chapters in 1995 provide a backstory for Calvin, but I found them boring. These chapters dragged out the plot, and their culmination in the present took the plot in a crazy direction.
One of the elements I always admire about Edwards's novels is his ability to seamlessly weave into the plot a serious theme into the midst of the events. This could have worked out better in this book. On the surface, this book appears to be a commentary on parasocial relationships and the dangers of social media. Instead, it takes a crazy, over-the-top turn and becomes a hot mess of ridiculousness. The pool scene at the end and cartoon-like villains had me rolling my eyes; however, I enjoyed the epilogue.
My main issue with The Darkest Water was that the plot tried to be two different things: a commentary on the dangers of social media and a suspenseful thriller. The two never blended, resulting in a messy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 stars
The Darkest Water is a thriller about a social media stalker, a missing woman, and a murderer.
Struggling bakery owner Calvin heeds his wife's advice and reluctantly posts about his shop on social media. Shortly after, an innocent DM exchange introduces Calvin to a potential social media stalker.
At the same time, Detective Imogen Evans finds herself investigating the murder of a mysterious man.
Chapters alternate between Calvin and Imogen. Calvin is a clueless idiot, and I had to spend time alternating between rolling my eyes at his stupid decisions and yelling at him. Thankfully, Imogen, a main character in Edwards's The Lucky One , is intelligent, and her chapters are less chaotic than Calvin's. While I hope never to see Calvin again, I would be okay with another of Edwards' books featuring Imogene.
The plot has two timelines, one in the present and one in 1995. The chapters in 1995 provide a backstory for Calvin, but I found them boring. These chapters dragged out the plot, and their culmination in the present took the plot in a crazy direction.
One of the elements I always admire about Edwards's novels is his ability to seamlessly weave into the plot a serious theme into the midst of the events. This could have worked out better in this book. On the surface, this book appears to be a commentary on parasocial relationships and the dangers of social media. Instead, it takes a crazy, over-the-top turn and becomes a hot mess of ridiculousness. The pool scene at the end and cartoon-like villains had me rolling my eyes; however, I enjoyed the epilogue.
My main issue with The Darkest Water was that the plot tried to be two different things: a commentary on the dangers of social media and a suspenseful thriller. The two never blended, resulting in a messy read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2024
3.5 stars
It’s been Calvin Matheson’s ambition to open a café and bakery but his new venture in Elderbridge in the Lake District is struggling, and if he can’t turn things around his dreams are over. Encouraged by his wife Vicky, he reluctantly agrees to promote the business on social media. He’s delighted when a clip they post goes viral and initially the direct messages he gets from someone are innocuous, but later somewhat creepy, realising all his fears of social media. Meanwhile, DI Imogen Evans, newly arrived in the Lakes from Shropshire, is investigating a body found buried up to the neck on the tideline of Drigg Beach. She prays it’s a freak incident, but knows in her heart it isn’t. Who is the victim and who would want this man dead? Almost immediately Imogen is under pressure to find out and close the case quickly. The story is told by Imogen and Calvin and parallel timelines, which works well.
First of all, the start is excellent and a shout out for the fantastic setting which injects a lot of atmosphere with its bleakness lending just right tone to the unfolding drama. Elderbridge and the Drigg beach area are quiet places and they are a stark contrast to the shock of the crime and demonstrating that bad things can happen anywhere. There’s a sense of foreboding overhanging, it’s creepy on several occasions and there’s a feeling of danger after some unsettling incidents which go from bad to worse. It becomes twisty as some astonishing connections are revealed which poses conundrums. Wherein lies the truth? Your heart sinks, when you learn of one pivotal event, which changes everything.
The characterisation is good, they’re all well crafted even the peripheral ones, although described briefly, they deftly done. The victimology is very interesting and I enjoy the directions this takes. Some characters are a real puzzle, bizarre even, and I find myself asking a lot of questions and generally coming up with the wrong answers! Through one character, the question of social media identity is introduced, and eventually this leads to toxicity, demonstrating how people can bend with the wind on social media and hide behind it.
The ending is OTT, there are a lot of coincidences, and in my opinion, it stretches things a bit too far, although it is entertaining!
Overall, this is a glide through, enjoyable and easy read.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Thomas and Mercer for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
It’s been Calvin Matheson’s ambition to open a café and bakery but his new venture in Elderbridge in the Lake District is struggling, and if he can’t turn things around his dreams are over. Encouraged by his wife Vicky, he reluctantly agrees to promote the business on social media. He’s delighted when a clip they post goes viral and initially the direct messages he gets from someone are innocuous, but later somewhat creepy, realising all his fears of social media. Meanwhile, DI Imogen Evans, newly arrived in the Lakes from Shropshire, is investigating a body found buried up to the neck on the tideline of Drigg Beach. She prays it’s a freak incident, but knows in her heart it isn’t. Who is the victim and who would want this man dead? Almost immediately Imogen is under pressure to find out and close the case quickly. The story is told by Imogen and Calvin and parallel timelines, which works well.
First of all, the start is excellent and a shout out for the fantastic setting which injects a lot of atmosphere with its bleakness lending just right tone to the unfolding drama. Elderbridge and the Drigg beach area are quiet places and they are a stark contrast to the shock of the crime and demonstrating that bad things can happen anywhere. There’s a sense of foreboding overhanging, it’s creepy on several occasions and there’s a feeling of danger after some unsettling incidents which go from bad to worse. It becomes twisty as some astonishing connections are revealed which poses conundrums. Wherein lies the truth? Your heart sinks, when you learn of one pivotal event, which changes everything.
The characterisation is good, they’re all well crafted even the peripheral ones, although described briefly, they deftly done. The victimology is very interesting and I enjoy the directions this takes. Some characters are a real puzzle, bizarre even, and I find myself asking a lot of questions and generally coming up with the wrong answers! Through one character, the question of social media identity is introduced, and eventually this leads to toxicity, demonstrating how people can bend with the wind on social media and hide behind it.
The ending is OTT, there are a lot of coincidences, and in my opinion, it stretches things a bit too far, although it is entertaining!
Overall, this is a glide through, enjoyable and easy read.
With thanks to NetGalley, and especially to Thomas and Mercer for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
February 29, 2024
I’m officially a Mark Edwards fan! This book blends elements of detective (crime) fiction with psychological suspense, which I absolutely loved.
There was a lot to like about this one:
🏞️ Atmospheric setting that adds a layer of mystery to the story
👩🦰 The detective, Imogen Evans (I also found out she appears in another one of Mark’s books, so now I need to read that too)!
📝 2 storylines that come together perfectly
😮 Shocking twists & turns
Overall, I found this book super easy to read. I flew through the pages (even staying up until late to read it) and really enjoyed the story.
There was a lot to like about this one:
🏞️ Atmospheric setting that adds a layer of mystery to the story
👩🦰 The detective, Imogen Evans (I also found out she appears in another one of Mark’s books, so now I need to read that too)!
📝 2 storylines that come together perfectly
😮 Shocking twists & turns
Overall, I found this book super easy to read. I flew through the pages (even staying up until late to read it) and really enjoyed the story.
February 17, 2025
I enjoy a good Mark Edwards novel, psychological thrillers that keep me hooked until the final page. Edwards creates a stunning thriller with dark themes and undertones, which adds to the enjoyment. A small-town business owner has found success when pushing his bakery into the online world through social media. While there is a great sense of fame, it all comes with some concerns after some messages reveal an over-the-top fanatic. All the while, a body is discovered in the Lake District, leaving the local authorities to investigate before others fall victim. More odd criminal activity arrives in this small town, leaving many to wonder what has changed and who is pulling the strings? Mark Edwards delivers a great story and keeps the reader wondering until all is revealed in a dark and intense manner!
Calvin Matheson has struggled since being in school to make a name for himself. A small-time baker, Calvin has always dreamed of opening a shop and see his name in lights. When he opens a small bakery in the Lake District, Calvin’s dreams begin coming true. While the foot traffic is still sparse, Calvin agrees to allow his wife, Vicky, to launch things by promoting on social media. The viral bump helps show Calvin how powerful online presence can be. However, things go south when primate messages begin flooding in from one person,someone purporting to be his favourite follower and greatest fan. The eerie nature is not lost on Vicky, though Calvin remains clueless.
While all this is taking place, the police discover a body on the beach. It's a local who has pulled away from the limelight, buried up to his neck in the sand and left to drown in the tide. The community turns this news into local gossip, which fills the local coffee shops and bake shops, so Calvin hears all about it. Who is this man and why would anyone want to do something so horrid to him? Detective Imogen Evans and her team are dispatched to investigate, turning the bucolic Lake District into a crime scene. Detective Evans must work quickly or another victim will surely turn up in another graphic manner.
While the murder investigation heats up, Calvin receives a surprise of his own. His greatest fan and obsessive follower turns up to help him. Mel reminds Calvin that she adores everything about it and lends a hand when Calvin's assistant is injured in an odd accident. As Mel pushes herself closer to Calvin and his bakery, Vicky can only wonder if there are ulterior motives and worries about her husband. Vicky cannot shake that there is something horrible taking place here and worries for her husband's safety. Calvin is still clueless to the problems, but his naivete could soon put all he cares about and those he loves into extreme danger. More odd activities and a missing local sends Detective Evans to up the intensity of her investigation and provide Calvin with new and darker aspects of his online presence. This is another strong Edwards thriller that rises to the occasion like one of Calvin’s delicious loaves!
I know that sitting down with a Mark Edwards novel will ensure a highly disturbing read, but also one that can be thoroughly enjoyed. This story is once again layered with much to enjoy while they revel in the dark nature being presented. The wonderful narrative builds, ensuring that the foundation emerges as a solid means by which the story can develop. Edwards crafts strong characters to enrich the piece and flavour it effectively, from the central characters to those who are only a passing mention on the page. The twists that emerge from the opening pages keep the reader wondering and provide something for everyone. Mark Edwards weaves great psychological thrills at every turn and builds his story in ways that only a well-established author can. This is a great psycho thriller that has all the elements to keep the reader hooked!
Kudos, Mr. Edwards, for another great story idea that flourishes as it gets more intense.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Calvin Matheson has struggled since being in school to make a name for himself. A small-time baker, Calvin has always dreamed of opening a shop and see his name in lights. When he opens a small bakery in the Lake District, Calvin’s dreams begin coming true. While the foot traffic is still sparse, Calvin agrees to allow his wife, Vicky, to launch things by promoting on social media. The viral bump helps show Calvin how powerful online presence can be. However, things go south when primate messages begin flooding in from one person,someone purporting to be his favourite follower and greatest fan. The eerie nature is not lost on Vicky, though Calvin remains clueless.
While all this is taking place, the police discover a body on the beach. It's a local who has pulled away from the limelight, buried up to his neck in the sand and left to drown in the tide. The community turns this news into local gossip, which fills the local coffee shops and bake shops, so Calvin hears all about it. Who is this man and why would anyone want to do something so horrid to him? Detective Imogen Evans and her team are dispatched to investigate, turning the bucolic Lake District into a crime scene. Detective Evans must work quickly or another victim will surely turn up in another graphic manner.
While the murder investigation heats up, Calvin receives a surprise of his own. His greatest fan and obsessive follower turns up to help him. Mel reminds Calvin that she adores everything about it and lends a hand when Calvin's assistant is injured in an odd accident. As Mel pushes herself closer to Calvin and his bakery, Vicky can only wonder if there are ulterior motives and worries about her husband. Vicky cannot shake that there is something horrible taking place here and worries for her husband's safety. Calvin is still clueless to the problems, but his naivete could soon put all he cares about and those he loves into extreme danger. More odd activities and a missing local sends Detective Evans to up the intensity of her investigation and provide Calvin with new and darker aspects of his online presence. This is another strong Edwards thriller that rises to the occasion like one of Calvin’s delicious loaves!
I know that sitting down with a Mark Edwards novel will ensure a highly disturbing read, but also one that can be thoroughly enjoyed. This story is once again layered with much to enjoy while they revel in the dark nature being presented. The wonderful narrative builds, ensuring that the foundation emerges as a solid means by which the story can develop. Edwards crafts strong characters to enrich the piece and flavour it effectively, from the central characters to those who are only a passing mention on the page. The twists that emerge from the opening pages keep the reader wondering and provide something for everyone. Mark Edwards weaves great psychological thrills at every turn and builds his story in ways that only a well-established author can. This is a great psycho thriller that has all the elements to keep the reader hooked!
Kudos, Mr. Edwards, for another great story idea that flourishes as it gets more intense.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 30, 2024
Calvin’s dream is to open a Bakery/Coffee shop, so with the help with his wife’s Vicky’s savings he does just that in a small town called Elderbridge in the Lake district. But business is not going as well as he hopes. So, he turns to social media and opens account and shows everyone the delicious things he bakes to drum up some business. But as soon as he does that, he is bombarded with messages especially from one woman. Vicky warns him not to devolve personal details about himself, or he will get himself a stalker. Which just so happens a woman walks into the café and reveals herself to be Mel that he has been messaging on the internet.
In the meantime, a body has been found on the beach and the Police are finding it hard to identify him. The man has been living off gird thirty years in a cottage in a remote part of town. Who is he and why was he murdered?
I can confess that I have not read many books from this author. But I found this to dark gripping thriller. Or have I read the previous book in this series, but it was okay as you can read this without no problem.
The story involving Calvin set in two timelines present day and 1995 where an incident happened that change Calvin’s life and played on his mind ever since and connects his time with his stalker and the body on the beach.
This is a twisty thriller that I mostly enjoyed except for me personally got overwhelmed with all the different characters near the ending of the story. 4 stars
In the meantime, a body has been found on the beach and the Police are finding it hard to identify him. The man has been living off gird thirty years in a cottage in a remote part of town. Who is he and why was he murdered?
I can confess that I have not read many books from this author. But I found this to dark gripping thriller. Or have I read the previous book in this series, but it was okay as you can read this without no problem.
The story involving Calvin set in two timelines present day and 1995 where an incident happened that change Calvin’s life and played on his mind ever since and connects his time with his stalker and the body on the beach.
This is a twisty thriller that I mostly enjoyed except for me personally got overwhelmed with all the different characters near the ending of the story. 4 stars
January 9, 2024
Calvin has opened a coffee and cake shop in a small town in the north of England. It isn't doing well, so Tara, a young woman who works there, suggests creating some buzz on social media. There has been a grisly murder in town, a friendly woman/stalker has been chatting with Calvin online much to the dismay of his wife Vicky, and Calvin has a secret from his past that clouds his life. When Vicky goes missing, some online trolls suggest that it's Calvin's fault, but the truth is, indeed, much darker, as the past comes back to haunt Calvin. A well-known detective, Imogen, is on the case; she learns that someone with a long standing grudge is now seeking the ultimate revenge. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
April 22, 2024
I usually love Mark Edwards books but unfortunately this one missed the mark for me. After reading the blurb on The Darkest Water I had thought the premise was interesting and I was really excited about it but I didn't love the characters and I didn't like the direction the story went.
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
June 6, 2024
This is my 2nd book by this author. I've enjoyed them both immensely.
His books always have wonderful twists and turns.
The deviousness with the protagonists are interesting, and the storyline keeps you engaged right up to the last page.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC
His books always have wonderful twists and turns.
The deviousness with the protagonists are interesting, and the storyline keeps you engaged right up to the last page.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC
December 8, 2024
Calvin has started the bakery and coffee shop of his dreams but he initially struggles to get a large clientele. His wife helps him open a social media account which quite suddenly goes viral. Out of politeness he answers his DMs and gets quite the super fan. His wife convinces him he’s going to bring a creep into his life.
And then he mistakenly hires her.
An excellent story!
And then he mistakenly hires her.
An excellent story!
May 20, 2024
Firstly I was so glad DI Imogen Evans was back. She’s a great character, if you haven’t yet, read The Lucky Ones!
I really enjoy the first 80% of this book and was wondering how the stories were going to tie together. There was a couple of really shocking moments that I didn’t see coming however I found the ending a bit anti climatic. Like that’s it??
I feel Mark Edwards could have gone a lot deeper/darker and I couldn’t get behind or see the reasoning for the motivations. It was feeling like a 4 star throughout however dropping to a 3.5 for the disappointing ending.
I really enjoy the first 80% of this book and was wondering how the stories were going to tie together. There was a couple of really shocking moments that I didn’t see coming however I found the ending a bit anti climatic. Like that’s it??
I feel Mark Edwards could have gone a lot deeper/darker and I couldn’t get behind or see the reasoning for the motivations. It was feeling like a 4 star throughout however dropping to a 3.5 for the disappointing ending.
January 9, 2024
"𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅," 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅.
Calvin's dream was to become a baker, and his wife Vicky invested her savings into making his dream a reality. The problem lies in the location, a quaint English town that already has a bakery that the locals frequent. His legendary cakes and pastries are no good if no one is buying them. When his wife tells social media shy Calvin that one sure way to grow his business it to put it online, he initially balks, but then he reluctantly agrees. He finds that he likes the dopamine hit that comes with every like, share, and comment.
When he receives a cheery DM from a local fan, his spirits soar. Soon, he is engaging this person is conversation, and then she shows up at the bakery, his "biggest fan," and while in the middle of a rush, Calvin unknowingly hires her since his assistant was injured in a freak accident and needs the help. Vicky is not pleased, but Calvin reassures her that everything is fine.
Everything is NOT fine.
Meanwhile, a local man who is known as a recluse has been found on the beach, buried up to his neck in sand. Who would do such an awful thing, and why? Detective Imogen Evans is determined to find out.
This book had everything I loved in a thriller--an engaging storyline, the author's signature characters who are normal people experiencing scary things, a jaw dropping twist, and the potential of (please, please) a series based around the detective. Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer Publishing for the early copy. This book will publish April 16, 2024.
Calvin's dream was to become a baker, and his wife Vicky invested her savings into making his dream a reality. The problem lies in the location, a quaint English town that already has a bakery that the locals frequent. His legendary cakes and pastries are no good if no one is buying them. When his wife tells social media shy Calvin that one sure way to grow his business it to put it online, he initially balks, but then he reluctantly agrees. He finds that he likes the dopamine hit that comes with every like, share, and comment.
When he receives a cheery DM from a local fan, his spirits soar. Soon, he is engaging this person is conversation, and then she shows up at the bakery, his "biggest fan," and while in the middle of a rush, Calvin unknowingly hires her since his assistant was injured in a freak accident and needs the help. Vicky is not pleased, but Calvin reassures her that everything is fine.
Everything is NOT fine.
Meanwhile, a local man who is known as a recluse has been found on the beach, buried up to his neck in sand. Who would do such an awful thing, and why? Detective Imogen Evans is determined to find out.
This book had everything I loved in a thriller--an engaging storyline, the author's signature characters who are normal people experiencing scary things, a jaw dropping twist, and the potential of (please, please) a series based around the detective. Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer Publishing for the early copy. This book will publish April 16, 2024.
February 5, 2024
It is 12:39 a.m. and I just finished The Darkest Water. This book is another wonderful read by Mark Edwards! Just when I thought I had it figured out, he would throw in a plot twist to the point that I literally found myself shaking my head in disbelief! I have always enjoyed Mark’s books and think they are all great but I feel he’s getting better and better with every one that comes out!
If you’re looking for a suspenseful, twisted page turner that keeps you guessing, this is your next read!! Well done, Mr. Edwards!
If you’re looking for a suspenseful, twisted page turner that keeps you guessing, this is your next read!! Well done, Mr. Edwards!
January 22, 2024
This is my fifth book by Mark Edwards, and I want to say he just keeps getting better and better. All of his books I always give 4- 5 stars though. This kept me very engaged from the very first page and I loved the twist at the end! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for an honest review. To be published April 2024.
January 17, 2026
So much going on in this multi story timeline you really have to concentrate on to know whats happening. I love the scenario of getting messages on social media and it becoming stalker like. However some of the main characters actions like not getting references left me wondering if this was realistic or he was just stupid. If you read this for what it is a full on over the top action packed mystery over two timelines with interesting subplots and crazy characters you will be entertained but if you start to question its reality you will hate it. Also the dots do join up convienantly and predictably which you have to ignore. Its a good story which is entertaining a nice opening story. Thanks netgallery, publisher and author for this 4 star read
May 17, 2024
How does Mark Edwards do it? He’s a very prolific author of highly readable, fast-paced, complex thrillers… and such a nice person, husband, and cat dad to boot! If you’re not a fan of Edwards on Facebook, go do it! He does lots of virtual chats and readings and giveaways. So that’s fun. With my discussion of the author out of the way, let’s get on to the book!
I inhaled this latest book by Mark Edwards— as I do all of his novels. I loved the main character and found him to be very believable, and while some of the events surrounding the story may require a wee little suspension of disbelief, this book never requires stifling a yawn! It’s a real finger-burner page-turner excitement fest from start to finish. I should note that I listened to the audio version — which is ably narrated by Simon Mattacks. Simon (who sounds like an Englishman to me) is always excellent at narration — provided no one has an American accent! Those he struggles with, but luckily there’s not one American in the whole crazy bunch of characters. If you love a fast-paced thriller with a believable “everyday” kind of main character, give it a read or a listen. I would love to hear what you think.
I inhaled this latest book by Mark Edwards— as I do all of his novels. I loved the main character and found him to be very believable, and while some of the events surrounding the story may require a wee little suspension of disbelief, this book never requires stifling a yawn! It’s a real finger-burner page-turner excitement fest from start to finish. I should note that I listened to the audio version — which is ably narrated by Simon Mattacks. Simon (who sounds like an Englishman to me) is always excellent at narration — provided no one has an American accent! Those he struggles with, but luckily there’s not one American in the whole crazy bunch of characters. If you love a fast-paced thriller with a believable “everyday” kind of main character, give it a read or a listen. I would love to hear what you think.
July 8, 2024
Mark is beginning to become my go-to author! His books just reel you in, and you just enjoy the journey as much as reaching the end! There’s so many characters to love, and a bunch to dislike! We start off with a horrible death, and then we seem to have a whole other story about the trials of a bakery owner. This likeable guy is hit with one horrible event after another. And he finally crosses paths with Detective Imogene Evans who is determined to help him as well as investigate the death. I really like Imogene, and I learn that she is a featured detective in Mark’s earlier books. I just read “Lucky Ones” and it is also a really good book. The author does a great job of weaving subplots and red herrings in this book. It’s easy to immerse yourself into the story!
April 25, 2024
"The Darkest Water" sunk below sea level for me.
I am a huge fan of Mark Edwards so perhaps my expectations were too high.
The book had a strong start but quickly tanked.
I prefer thrillers with fewer well-developed characters and a realistic plotline.
Overall, this book suffered from too many characters and waaay too many bizarre and far-fetched coincidences.
Although Simon Mattacks did a superb job with the narration, the book unfolded from two POVs and would have benefited from an additional female narrator.
April 13, 2024
★★★★ 4.5 stars
If you don’t take your dark secrets to the grave, maybe they’ll take you there first...
I've been a Mark Edwards fan since reading "Follow You Home" and "The Magpies" many moons ago and, while not all his books are my faves, this one is most definitely one of his more compelling and gripping psychological thrillers. I love how he has combined a bit police procedural with the thriller aspect making it a perfect blend of psychological crime fiction.
The prologue opens with a most gruesome discovery on Drigg beach. And if you have ever read a Mark Edwards thriller, you'll know he loves to shock, and this was no different. A somewhat different death to contend with as Detective Imogen Evans, from a couple of previous thrillers, returns to head up the investigation.
Meanwhile in Elderbridge, Calvin Matheson has dreams of owning a successful bakery/cafe. Preferably one to outdo the chain bakery Peggy's to which everyone flocks, leaving Calvin's empty. It was his wife Vicky's idea to go online with a few videos to help drum up business. Overnight, "Chef Calvin" goes viral and becomes a social media sensation, his cafe/bakery now centrestage to showcase all his delicious delights. Business becomes so busy he needs to take on an assistant after his current one breaks her wrist in a burglary.
Enter Mel. Or should that be BlondieMel? She has been messaging Calvin for the past few days till Vicky put a stop to his naivete of "internet shoppers" and possible catfishing. But then Mel answers the ad that Calvin posts for an assistant and he is so desperate for help he doesn't stop to check references, asking her start immediately. But Vicky is not best pleased. Why has this Mel suddenly turned up when help was most needed?
But it's not long before the internet interest switches sides and suddenly Calvin finds himself the centre of a murder investigation, the disappearance of his wife and a sordid interest in young women! His business soon drops off and Calvin finds he must fight to clear his name.
All the while, the murder of the mysterious man who lived a hermit lifestyle surrounded by gloomy paintings of death and hell begins to grow colder by the day. The police are having difficulty identifying him and while his paintings are all signed Leo James, the man himself is a mystery. Is Leo James his real name? Is he hiding from something? Or someone? Locals have him down as someone in witness protection with his past having caught up with him. But who is he? And why was he murdered in such a slow and purposeful way?
This is a dark and gripping read that I devoured in a day. I love Mark Edwards' dry wit and dark humour which is peppered throughout. The story unfolds mainly around Calvin, set in two timelines both the present day and 1995. Throw in a stalker and a body on the beach and you have a gripping twisty thriller from one of the most devious minds and talented of writers. While there was a deluge of characters that all seemed to be thrown together, making the story seem a little far fetched, it strangely worked because what is fiction if not far fetched in some form or another? Especially if penned so cleverly as Edwards does.
Another gripping read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I would like to thank #MarkEdwards #Netgalley and #AmazonPub for an ARC of #TheDarkestWater in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
If you don’t take your dark secrets to the grave, maybe they’ll take you there first...
I've been a Mark Edwards fan since reading "Follow You Home" and "The Magpies" many moons ago and, while not all his books are my faves, this one is most definitely one of his more compelling and gripping psychological thrillers. I love how he has combined a bit police procedural with the thriller aspect making it a perfect blend of psychological crime fiction.
The prologue opens with a most gruesome discovery on Drigg beach. And if you have ever read a Mark Edwards thriller, you'll know he loves to shock, and this was no different. A somewhat different death to contend with as Detective Imogen Evans, from a couple of previous thrillers, returns to head up the investigation.
Meanwhile in Elderbridge, Calvin Matheson has dreams of owning a successful bakery/cafe. Preferably one to outdo the chain bakery Peggy's to which everyone flocks, leaving Calvin's empty. It was his wife Vicky's idea to go online with a few videos to help drum up business. Overnight, "Chef Calvin" goes viral and becomes a social media sensation, his cafe/bakery now centrestage to showcase all his delicious delights. Business becomes so busy he needs to take on an assistant after his current one breaks her wrist in a burglary.
Enter Mel. Or should that be BlondieMel? She has been messaging Calvin for the past few days till Vicky put a stop to his naivete of "internet shoppers" and possible catfishing. But then Mel answers the ad that Calvin posts for an assistant and he is so desperate for help he doesn't stop to check references, asking her start immediately. But Vicky is not best pleased. Why has this Mel suddenly turned up when help was most needed?
But it's not long before the internet interest switches sides and suddenly Calvin finds himself the centre of a murder investigation, the disappearance of his wife and a sordid interest in young women! His business soon drops off and Calvin finds he must fight to clear his name.
All the while, the murder of the mysterious man who lived a hermit lifestyle surrounded by gloomy paintings of death and hell begins to grow colder by the day. The police are having difficulty identifying him and while his paintings are all signed Leo James, the man himself is a mystery. Is Leo James his real name? Is he hiding from something? Or someone? Locals have him down as someone in witness protection with his past having caught up with him. But who is he? And why was he murdered in such a slow and purposeful way?
This is a dark and gripping read that I devoured in a day. I love Mark Edwards' dry wit and dark humour which is peppered throughout. The story unfolds mainly around Calvin, set in two timelines both the present day and 1995. Throw in a stalker and a body on the beach and you have a gripping twisty thriller from one of the most devious minds and talented of writers. While there was a deluge of characters that all seemed to be thrown together, making the story seem a little far fetched, it strangely worked because what is fiction if not far fetched in some form or another? Especially if penned so cleverly as Edwards does.
Another gripping read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I would like to thank #MarkEdwards #Netgalley and #AmazonPub for an ARC of #TheDarkestWater in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
August 5, 2025
3 stars
Although a little bit predictable, this was a good book, a nice mystery, a fast read.
There is a man murdered on the beach, there is a weird lady that seeks to get close to a coffee shop owner and a mysterious disappearance of somebody's wife. Somehow all these are connected.
Although a little bit predictable, this was a good book, a nice mystery, a fast read.
There is a man murdered on the beach, there is a weird lady that seeks to get close to a coffee shop owner and a mysterious disappearance of somebody's wife. Somehow all these are connected.
June 30, 2025
The Darkest Water by Mark Edwards is a psychological thriller about a man who tries to re-build his life.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was another good book by this talented author.
The writing, as always was good, with a well-developed plot, and deep characters. The book was about secrets and lies, and guilt. It was also about revenge. Then there was the stalking angle.
Speaking of stalking, Calvin was an idiot. Mel just wrapped him around her finger so quickly that even an idiot should have seen it. It's difficult when you don't like the main character in the book. It can detract from the story. Thankfully I liked his wife and the detective.
Overall, this was a complex mystery, and quite good.
Anyway, until next time...
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
February 29, 2024
The Darkest Water is Mark Edward’s latest thriller and features Detective Imogen Evans from The Lucky Ones, but if you haven’t read The Lucky Ones yet, don’t worry as this can ABSOLUTELY be read as a standalone.
The story is set in the Lake District and Calvin Matheson’s dreams of opening a cafe and bakery are slowly turning into a nightmare due to no customers and dwindling finances. When his wife tells him to start promoting the cafe on social media with the help of his assistant one of his posts goes viral bringing him overnight success and plenty of new customers.
However, the darker side of social media soon rears it’s ugly head and when Calvin starts getting DM’s from a female stalker claiming to be his greatest fan, suddenly his success puts him and those closest to him in real danger.
Meanwhile, the body of a local man is found buried up to his neck in the sea and Detective Imogen Evans, who has recently moved to the area, is in charge of finding out who this man is, why he was killed and to catch the killer.
The Darkest Water has two storylines running alongside each other and slowly the reader begins to find out more about Calvin and more about the man on the beach. Is there any connection between them and will Imogen catch the killer before they strike again?
Another twisty tale from the warped mind of Mark Edwards!
The story is set in the Lake District and Calvin Matheson’s dreams of opening a cafe and bakery are slowly turning into a nightmare due to no customers and dwindling finances. When his wife tells him to start promoting the cafe on social media with the help of his assistant one of his posts goes viral bringing him overnight success and plenty of new customers.
However, the darker side of social media soon rears it’s ugly head and when Calvin starts getting DM’s from a female stalker claiming to be his greatest fan, suddenly his success puts him and those closest to him in real danger.
Meanwhile, the body of a local man is found buried up to his neck in the sea and Detective Imogen Evans, who has recently moved to the area, is in charge of finding out who this man is, why he was killed and to catch the killer.
The Darkest Water has two storylines running alongside each other and slowly the reader begins to find out more about Calvin and more about the man on the beach. Is there any connection between them and will Imogen catch the killer before they strike again?
Another twisty tale from the warped mind of Mark Edwards!
February 23, 2024
Calvin has opened a coffee shop and been persuaded to advertise on social media, a decision he will come to regret.
There are lots of sub plots in this duel timeline thriller and I found the story confusing at times.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
There are lots of sub plots in this duel timeline thriller and I found the story confusing at times.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2024
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 4.5 Stars
Story - 4.5 Stars
July 25, 2025
Excellent page turner that kept me intrigued…. Right up until the reveals at the end lmao where things just seemed unnecessarily wild and unbelievable. Really enjoyed the continuation of Imogen and all the references to the viper case, shall be binging more Mark sooner rather than later I feel 😎
January 13, 2024
This was a nice easy read, it was different from other Mark Edwards books that I have read, this one wasn't as scary it was more wanting to work out where the strands fitted together. Saying that I just devoured it in one sitting as it was easy to read. What I am really looking forward to as it has all the hallmarks of setting up a new series for the detective which will work quite well. I seem to be seeing a lot of police procedurals set in the Lake District right now - has something happened.
Everything got resolved in the end, yes so many coincidences but sometimes that is life.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
Everything got resolved in the end, yes so many coincidences but sometimes that is life.
I was given an advance copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
May 3, 2024
A jaw-dropping start to my 2024 reading year!
In a small coastal village in the Lake District, a local man makes a grisly discovery on the beach – a man buried up to his neck in the sand, death caused by the incoming, unforgiving tide. Remember the 1982 movie Creepshow?
Nearly in the town of Elderbridge. Calvin Matheson is struggling to keep his newly opened café – Therapy – afloat. His wife Vicky suggests a series of social media posts to promote and attract customers. At first Calvin is reluctant, but as his followers grow, and business improves, he relishes the benefits and rewards. But newfound notoriety brings unwanted attention, and Calvin has a lot to hide, secrets from his past that are about to threaten his professional and personal reputationin life-altering and harmful ways.
As a longtime fan of Mark Edwards, I instantly requested The Darkest Water without even reading the synopsis as this author never fails to deliver well-crafted plot twists, and a final sentence that is prone to leave me reeling in shock. And I’m thrilled to report that Mark Edwards latest novel of domestic drama and mystery combined with psychological suspense did not let me down.
I desperately tried to unravel how the body on the beach connected to Calvin’s story arc, to no avail, not even when the clues started rolling in. It sure made for a tense and nerve-wracking final act. You may recognise DI Imogen Evans from Mark Edwards, The Lucky Ones – I didn’t, as I haven’t read it yet, and even though there were minor spoilers in this book, if anything it has me even more intrigued to bump that one up my tbr. Which brings me to my next point, in that there’s a police procedural element to The Darkest Water, from Imogen’s POV, as she and her new partner, Steve Milner, first identify, and then investigate the beach murder victim.
I recommend adding to your tbr The Darkest Water, as I read it over a day, which clearly underscores how unputdownable it was.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Mark Edwards for the e-ARC.
In a small coastal village in the Lake District, a local man makes a grisly discovery on the beach – a man buried up to his neck in the sand, death caused by the incoming, unforgiving tide. Remember the 1982 movie Creepshow?
Nearly in the town of Elderbridge. Calvin Matheson is struggling to keep his newly opened café – Therapy – afloat. His wife Vicky suggests a series of social media posts to promote and attract customers. At first Calvin is reluctant, but as his followers grow, and business improves, he relishes the benefits and rewards. But newfound notoriety brings unwanted attention, and Calvin has a lot to hide, secrets from his past that are about to threaten his professional and personal reputationin life-altering and harmful ways.
As a longtime fan of Mark Edwards, I instantly requested The Darkest Water without even reading the synopsis as this author never fails to deliver well-crafted plot twists, and a final sentence that is prone to leave me reeling in shock. And I’m thrilled to report that Mark Edwards latest novel of domestic drama and mystery combined with psychological suspense did not let me down.
I desperately tried to unravel how the body on the beach connected to Calvin’s story arc, to no avail, not even when the clues started rolling in. It sure made for a tense and nerve-wracking final act. You may recognise DI Imogen Evans from Mark Edwards, The Lucky Ones – I didn’t, as I haven’t read it yet, and even though there were minor spoilers in this book, if anything it has me even more intrigued to bump that one up my tbr. Which brings me to my next point, in that there’s a police procedural element to The Darkest Water, from Imogen’s POV, as she and her new partner, Steve Milner, first identify, and then investigate the beach murder victim.
I recommend adding to your tbr The Darkest Water, as I read it over a day, which clearly underscores how unputdownable it was.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Mark Edwards for the e-ARC.
March 31, 2024
From the prologue to the very last page this is a perfect thriller. At the beginning you'd be forgiven for thinking there are 2 different storylines but it becomes apparent that the stories are linked in a chilling way. From past buried secrets to stalking to the power and negative side of social media.
I've read a few of Mark Edwards books and this is my favourite so far. Fast paced and tense this is everything I look for in my favourite genre
I've read a few of Mark Edwards books and this is my favourite so far. Fast paced and tense this is everything I look for in my favourite genre
March 27, 2024
Every book, every time, I think I have it figured out. Marks signature 2nd twist gets me EVERY TIME. This book is fantastic and I highly recommend.
April 26, 2024
This is a great psychological thriller.
Calvin is happy that he’s finally got a coffee shop all of his own but business is quiet. His wife Vicky persuades him to go onto social media to highlight the shop and his wonderful cakes.
This leads to a few messages and one person in particular seems to been messaging more than others.
When Calvin needs extra staff, Mel arrives and he gives her the job, and then realises she’s the one who has been messaging him.
Vicky is wary of her but Calvin needs the help so gives her a trial run.
Things turn a bit sinister after this, with the shop being broken into and Calvin finding out an old friend has been living nearby and has been murdered.
Vicky then goes missing and Calvin starts to receive hate messages and he starts to crumble.
This is a great read with some good twists in the story.
Calvin is happy that he’s finally got a coffee shop all of his own but business is quiet. His wife Vicky persuades him to go onto social media to highlight the shop and his wonderful cakes.
This leads to a few messages and one person in particular seems to been messaging more than others.
When Calvin needs extra staff, Mel arrives and he gives her the job, and then realises she’s the one who has been messaging him.
Vicky is wary of her but Calvin needs the help so gives her a trial run.
Things turn a bit sinister after this, with the shop being broken into and Calvin finding out an old friend has been living nearby and has been murdered.
Vicky then goes missing and Calvin starts to receive hate messages and he starts to crumble.
This is a great read with some good twists in the story.
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