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Looking Good Dead
When a 1930s-clad corpse surfaces at a lakeside country retreat during a wedding celebration, Inspector Drake is thrust into a bewildering investigation. With no apparent link to the nuptial revelry, he's stumped. But when a second body turns up in an abandoned hearse by the roadside, Drake confronts his most daunting case yet.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2024
71 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Puleston
49 books297 followersI write mysteries and thrillers.
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
April 18, 2024
Stephen Puleston continues to provide original and interesting cases, with dedicated police work to support the storyline. DI Drake’s team each play co-ordinated and significant roles, which add to the sense of purpose. More insights into Drake’s OCD might be interesting … though his second wife, patient and understanding, is helping to tame that – and his acceptance that family is a vital part of anyone’s life, that work should not be all-consuming, even when it is to solve murders. Even unusual murders such as this one …
The stories are a good read for a miserable day, or a laze in bed, or on the beach – believable, good pace, memorable characters. My only whinge is that I think some better proofreading would benefit both the book and the readers – I found I was pulled out of the action several times because of typos/incorrect words, which affected the situation.
The stories are a good read for a miserable day, or a laze in bed, or on the beach – believable, good pace, memorable characters. My only whinge is that I think some better proofreading would benefit both the book and the readers – I found I was pulled out of the action several times because of typos/incorrect words, which affected the situation.
April 11, 2024
It is DI Ian Drake’s first day back at work after returning from his honeymoon with wife Annie and, together with his team of DS Sara Morgan, DC Gareth Winder and DC Luned Thomas based at Wales Police Service’s Northern Division HQ at Colwyn Bay, he has a new murder case to investigate almost immediately. A suspicious death has been reported. June Bennett, the owner of high-class dress shop Looking Good, has been knocked unconscious and then asphyxiated by hanging from a beam in her storeroom using a block and tackle device. Strangely the victim has been dressed in 1930’s clothing, fashion from an era she was fascinated by, having held costume parties from that age as well. As inquiries proceed, the detectives discover that wasn’t the only theme of some of her gatherings, and a number of good suspects are revealed. The reader also hears from the killer as they go about their deadly business. As the killer sends crime scene photos to the press and singles out Drake which brings back awful memories of a previous case, a second bizarre murder is discovered, this time a man dressed in the same style of clothing and left in an abandoned hearse. Surely there must be a link to the first victim? Drake is convinced the 1930s must hold the key but can he unlock the mystery in time to save more lives?
This series is a firm favourite of mine, featuring a strong loyal team of detectives battling some very clever killers, set in a beautiful part of the world which I know well and giving me an opportunity to practice my schoolgirl Welsh on occasion. All the main characters are well portrayed and easy to like, with exception of Supt Hobbs who very much follows his own agenda for promotion and who is secretly jealous of Drake’s success rate in solving difficult cases. It’s also great to see Drake settled in his home life and now married to Annie, another lovely character. This story has a complex and engrossing plot with lots of twists and red herrings strewn in the path of the reader, culminating in an exciting conclusion. I do hope there will be more in this very popular series soon.
This series is a firm favourite of mine, featuring a strong loyal team of detectives battling some very clever killers, set in a beautiful part of the world which I know well and giving me an opportunity to practice my schoolgirl Welsh on occasion. All the main characters are well portrayed and easy to like, with exception of Supt Hobbs who very much follows his own agenda for promotion and who is secretly jealous of Drake’s success rate in solving difficult cases. It’s also great to see Drake settled in his home life and now married to Annie, another lovely character. This story has a complex and engrossing plot with lots of twists and red herrings strewn in the path of the reader, culminating in an exciting conclusion. I do hope there will be more in this very popular series soon.
April 22, 2024
Book 12 in the Detective Drake series but they work perfectly as stand alone.
Drake has recently returned from his honeymoon and is planning a steady return to work mode when a call comes in and he realises he needs to be in full work mode immediately.
A woman is found hanging in her shop dressed in 1930s clothes. It soon becomes clear that the murder is linked to the 1930s parties she organised. When investigations reveal the existence of spin off swinger parties the team believe they have found their motive. But when the body of a bank manager with no link to the parties is found Drake starts to question his gut instinct. When the killer sends photos for Drake's attention he starts having flash backs to an earlier case. Can Drake control his OCD and untangle the Web of lies and clues to revel the motive and murderer?
I have read all this series and I love catching up with the characters and love how Drake has moved on from his disfunctional marriage to Sian and found peace and happiness with Annie which has improved his relationship with work colleagues and made for a very productive team.
The other characters continue to develop and we learn more about their personalities and lives in each book.
A very enjoyable read. I loved how the author takes the reader through the process of detective work on a case and the admin involved rather than just the out and about work.
Thank you to the author for the digital Arc. This is my unbiased review.
Drake has recently returned from his honeymoon and is planning a steady return to work mode when a call comes in and he realises he needs to be in full work mode immediately.
A woman is found hanging in her shop dressed in 1930s clothes. It soon becomes clear that the murder is linked to the 1930s parties she organised. When investigations reveal the existence of spin off swinger parties the team believe they have found their motive. But when the body of a bank manager with no link to the parties is found Drake starts to question his gut instinct. When the killer sends photos for Drake's attention he starts having flash backs to an earlier case. Can Drake control his OCD and untangle the Web of lies and clues to revel the motive and murderer?
I have read all this series and I love catching up with the characters and love how Drake has moved on from his disfunctional marriage to Sian and found peace and happiness with Annie which has improved his relationship with work colleagues and made for a very productive team.
The other characters continue to develop and we learn more about their personalities and lives in each book.
A very enjoyable read. I loved how the author takes the reader through the process of detective work on a case and the admin involved rather than just the out and about work.
Thank you to the author for the digital Arc. This is my unbiased review.
April 25, 2024
June Bennett is a successful businesswoman. She is found dead by two of her employees, murdered by hanging and dressed in a 1930s costume. Drake and his team set to work but are interrupted by the discovery of another murder scene...
Looking Good Dead is the 12th book in the DI Drake series. I have read and reviewed books 10 and 11: Time To Die and Stone Cold Dead. Each book works as a standalone but personal and professional relationships have developed over the series.
June made enemies across her wide business interests as well as in her personal life. There are plenty of suspects for Drake and his team to investigate and pinning down motive is tricky. The killer uses the media to publicise his murders and directly targets Drake who fears for the safety of his family.
Most of the book is written to show the police investigation. There are some chapters written from the killer's first person perspective and this adds to the tension as we witness his schemes and actions.
As I've said in my earlier reviews, I really like Drake and his stable family life. He has just got back from honeymoon and his new wife supports him completely rather than begrudging his dedication to his work. The Welsh landscape and culture underpins the plot and I felt immersed in the events and characters' lives.
Looking Good Dead is an enjoyable police procedural with an easy-to-like lead detective.
Looking Good Dead is the 12th book in the DI Drake series. I have read and reviewed books 10 and 11: Time To Die and Stone Cold Dead. Each book works as a standalone but personal and professional relationships have developed over the series.
June made enemies across her wide business interests as well as in her personal life. There are plenty of suspects for Drake and his team to investigate and pinning down motive is tricky. The killer uses the media to publicise his murders and directly targets Drake who fears for the safety of his family.
Most of the book is written to show the police investigation. There are some chapters written from the killer's first person perspective and this adds to the tension as we witness his schemes and actions.
As I've said in my earlier reviews, I really like Drake and his stable family life. He has just got back from honeymoon and his new wife supports him completely rather than begrudging his dedication to his work. The Welsh landscape and culture underpins the plot and I felt immersed in the events and characters' lives.
Looking Good Dead is an enjoyable police procedural with an easy-to-like lead detective.
April 3, 2024
Good mystery, through to the end😊
I thought author Stephen Puleston penned a good, suspenseful story. I was not particularly drawn to the businesswoman victim but her end came early in the book and, eventually, through all the police interviews with family, friends and staff, she did come through as a more likable figure than I got on first impressions. But her lifestyle and business dealings put her on the outs with a number of folk and created a good field of suspects in addition to her cash-strapped husband. I did not guess the murderer or the direction their actions would take after the initial death and it's all thanks to the trail of red herrings the author cleverly provided. I liked that Puleston included some chapters from the killer's perspective which reveal thoughts without giving away identity.
For followers of the Inspector Drake series, he's really focused here on better consideration for his family's needs and not being a workaholic, a problem that plagued him and ruined his first marriage. And his boss is supportive, even though he's envious of Drake's dapper dress sense and appearance! Drake's foibles like his OCD help set him apart from the detectives in other police procedurals and keep me following the series.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I thought author Stephen Puleston penned a good, suspenseful story. I was not particularly drawn to the businesswoman victim but her end came early in the book and, eventually, through all the police interviews with family, friends and staff, she did come through as a more likable figure than I got on first impressions. But her lifestyle and business dealings put her on the outs with a number of folk and created a good field of suspects in addition to her cash-strapped husband. I did not guess the murderer or the direction their actions would take after the initial death and it's all thanks to the trail of red herrings the author cleverly provided. I liked that Puleston included some chapters from the killer's perspective which reveal thoughts without giving away identity.
For followers of the Inspector Drake series, he's really focused here on better consideration for his family's needs and not being a workaholic, a problem that plagued him and ruined his first marriage. And his boss is supportive, even though he's envious of Drake's dapper dress sense and appearance! Drake's foibles like his OCD help set him apart from the detectives in other police procedurals and keep me following the series.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
April 12, 2024
Although this is the twelfth in the Inspector Drake series it works well as a standalone. Have to say though the whole series really is worth reading for anyone who enjoys being drawn into the heart of a police procedural working through cleverly plotted investigations alongside a host of interesting and well developed characters.
This time around Inspector Drake finds himself dealing with the case of a murdered shop owner, June Bennett, her body dressed in 1930`s garb, is discovered in her own storeroom.
She was well known in the community having not only her vintage clothes shop , charity works and organizing events.
When a second victim, similarly dressed, occurs Drake and his team dig deeper wondering how the two victims are connected, what do they have in common?
Having to deal with uncooperative witnesses, family and friends of the deceased who for one reason or another seem not to be telling the whole truth, facing attacks on social media, this is by no means a straightforward inquiry for Drake and his team.
An intriguing read that kept me involved from start to finish.
Excellent!
I can definitely recommend this one and look forward to Inspector Drakes next case.
This time around Inspector Drake finds himself dealing with the case of a murdered shop owner, June Bennett, her body dressed in 1930`s garb, is discovered in her own storeroom.
She was well known in the community having not only her vintage clothes shop , charity works and organizing events.
When a second victim, similarly dressed, occurs Drake and his team dig deeper wondering how the two victims are connected, what do they have in common?
Having to deal with uncooperative witnesses, family and friends of the deceased who for one reason or another seem not to be telling the whole truth, facing attacks on social media, this is by no means a straightforward inquiry for Drake and his team.
An intriguing read that kept me involved from start to finish.
Excellent!
I can definitely recommend this one and look forward to Inspector Drakes next case.
April 12, 2024
I always look forward to the latest installments of the Inspector Drake series and this one met my expectations! A shop owner is found murdered, dressed in 1930’s vintage clothing and when a second murder occurs with the victim in a similarly styled fashion, the team wonders if the two victims can possibly be related - what do they have in common?
Who did it? One killer or two, copycat? How could they possibly be related when the motives appear to be entirely unrelated, and the victims don’t seem to be connected.
Further complicating issues for Drake and his team were uncooperative witnesses, along with relatives and friends of the first victim who were not completely forthcoming w/information and/or outright lying. All of this made it hard to put down and so, a quick read.
While I read the kindle version, I’ve listened to the audio versions as well (although I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to this one). I highly recommend listening to this series as well.
Thank you to the author, Stephen Puleston for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
Who did it? One killer or two, copycat? How could they possibly be related when the motives appear to be entirely unrelated, and the victims don’t seem to be connected.
Further complicating issues for Drake and his team were uncooperative witnesses, along with relatives and friends of the first victim who were not completely forthcoming w/information and/or outright lying. All of this made it hard to put down and so, a quick read.
While I read the kindle version, I’ve listened to the audio versions as well (although I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to this one). I highly recommend listening to this series as well.
Thank you to the author, Stephen Puleston for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
March 8, 2024
A woman is found murdered in her exclusive clothes shop, Looking Good, dressed in clothes from a bygone era which she was fond of. She has a string of businesses, so the police wonder if this and money could perhaps be the motive. Inspector Drake and team are on the case and when another body is found in clothing of the same era something strange is going on. Alternate chapters tell of the perpetrator making his plans.
This is part of a series but happily stands alone - I hadn’t read all of the others (but may well do in the future). I liked Drake who came across well and found myself turning the pages very easily as this is well written and captivating. There are lots of twists and turns keeping the reader invested right the way through. A well thought out plot and clever writing make this an enjoyable, entertaining read.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog
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March 22, 2024
Very good addition to the Ian Drake series. This can be read as a standalone, but I have enjoyed seeing Ian overcome challenges, both professional and personal, from the beginning of the series to now.
Stephen Puleston weaves in social media as a thorn in the side of Ian and his team as they investigate the murders of a woman and, later, a man whose wife, Maggs, knew the woman who was murdered. Maggs has a lot of impact in this story, which you will have to read the book to understand. No spoilers.
Like other Drake books, this one blends Ian’s work stress with his personal life. Ian’s marriage to Annie is lovely, and they have a good relationship with Ian’s daughters from an earlier marriage.
I received an advanced review copy of the book and noticed some typos. Hopefully they will be fixed before the book is published.
I recommend this book and the Ian Drake series to anyone who enjoys police procedurals with well-developed characters.
Stephen Puleston weaves in social media as a thorn in the side of Ian and his team as they investigate the murders of a woman and, later, a man whose wife, Maggs, knew the woman who was murdered. Maggs has a lot of impact in this story, which you will have to read the book to understand. No spoilers.
Like other Drake books, this one blends Ian’s work stress with his personal life. Ian’s marriage to Annie is lovely, and they have a good relationship with Ian’s daughters from an earlier marriage.
I received an advanced review copy of the book and noticed some typos. Hopefully they will be fixed before the book is published.
I recommend this book and the Ian Drake series to anyone who enjoys police procedurals with well-developed characters.
June 29, 2024
This is book number twelve and I’ve read them all over the last eleven years.
The thing I love most is they are set in north Wales where I live. Often based on Anglesey, or like this story, they frequently visit.
Inspector Drake and his team of now familiar detectives are faced with a murder when a a women is found hanging in her shop. She is the owner of Looking Good, hence the title. This is followed by further murders.
Ian Drake is a great character, a good detective, and I like him a lot. He suffers from OCD, which always makes things interesting. Now that he is married, it isn’t as bad as it once was. That’s what gives this stories an edge.
Overall, for crime buffs who love procedural stories and investigative books, this perfect. They are stand alone, so you could read just this one. Plus it’s not too complicated and a nice easy read. All neatly wrapped up in 300 pages. I recommend it.
The thing I love most is they are set in north Wales where I live. Often based on Anglesey, or like this story, they frequently visit.
Inspector Drake and his team of now familiar detectives are faced with a murder when a a women is found hanging in her shop. She is the owner of Looking Good, hence the title. This is followed by further murders.
Ian Drake is a great character, a good detective, and I like him a lot. He suffers from OCD, which always makes things interesting. Now that he is married, it isn’t as bad as it once was. That’s what gives this stories an edge.
Overall, for crime buffs who love procedural stories and investigative books, this perfect. They are stand alone, so you could read just this one. Plus it’s not too complicated and a nice easy read. All neatly wrapped up in 300 pages. I recommend it.
March 14, 2024
Inspector Drake has just returned from his honeymoon and is immediately assigned to a bizarre murder case. A local businesswoman is found hung in the back of her upscale clothing store, dressed in 1930’s fashions. The more the police investigate, the more possibilities they find. Is the murder business related? Is it the husband? She was fascinated by the 1930’s and held themed parties which branched off into swinger’s parties, leading to a couple of marriages ending. Is jealousy or revenge a motive? Drake must balance his OCD with the stress the case is putting him through.
Drake and his team are likable and the police work is fascinating. There is enough of the private side of Drake to give a rounded view. I really enjoyed the book and it works very well as a stand-alone.
Thanks to Stephen Puleston for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Drake and his team are likable and the police work is fascinating. There is enough of the private side of Drake to give a rounded view. I really enjoyed the book and it works very well as a stand-alone.
Thanks to Stephen Puleston for the opportunity to read an ARC.
April 11, 2024
I am fortunate to be a part of the author's ARC team and so received a free copy of this book. I loved this story, Drake's personality is definitely developing as he settles in to married life, the members of his team are also growing in confidence and ability due to his leadership. These aspects of the story, separate from the investigation, really bring the book to life and highlight the skill of the author. I also love the descriptions of the locations in North Wales where the action take place, they are really brought to life.
But the central, and arguably the most important part of the story is the mystery around initially one woman found dressed in 1930s style clothes, and then another body also dressed as though in the 1930s.
The investigation is really well written and leads to a quite surprising conclusion.
But the central, and arguably the most important part of the story is the mystery around initially one woman found dressed in 1930s style clothes, and then another body also dressed as though in the 1930s.
The investigation is really well written and leads to a quite surprising conclusion.
April 13, 2024
What a great read this is, every Drake book is different and can be read as a standalone, but I have been fortunate and have read them all. Some books start taking on the same story in a different setting but I find the Drake series all very different and nothing the same.
The team are the same each person is different and works well together, Drake does have his foibles but is getting better at a lot of his OCD which was most probably the start of his fall from his first marriage but now remarried things are looking up and his new wife does understand being married to a police officer is not a 9-5 job.
I love the series nothing over the top just normal but every story is well written, and I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy to review but this book has in no way persuaded me in any aspect to give a glowing report.
The team are the same each person is different and works well together, Drake does have his foibles but is getting better at a lot of his OCD which was most probably the start of his fall from his first marriage but now remarried things are looking up and his new wife does understand being married to a police officer is not a 9-5 job.
I love the series nothing over the top just normal but every story is well written, and I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy to review but this book has in no way persuaded me in any aspect to give a glowing report.
March 24, 2024
Another great addition to this excellent series
Drake is just back from honeymoon and plunged straight into an unusual murder investigation. The body of a woman dressed in 1930s clothes is found hanging in her shop and kick starts a wonderfully twisty plot that keeps you guessing until the very end. Lots of hurtling up and down the A55, lots of Drake’s trademark introspection and lots of possible suspects and motives, bring together a fabulous engaging read.
The character developments in the series, especially that of Drake himself, are excellent. He’s come a long way from the awkward man we first met in Brass In Pocket over a decade ago.
Although a part of a series this works perfectly well as a standalone too.
Drake is just back from honeymoon and plunged straight into an unusual murder investigation. The body of a woman dressed in 1930s clothes is found hanging in her shop and kick starts a wonderfully twisty plot that keeps you guessing until the very end. Lots of hurtling up and down the A55, lots of Drake’s trademark introspection and lots of possible suspects and motives, bring together a fabulous engaging read.
The character developments in the series, especially that of Drake himself, are excellent. He’s come a long way from the awkward man we first met in Brass In Pocket over a decade ago.
Although a part of a series this works perfectly well as a standalone too.
March 29, 2024
Another winning entry in the Inspector Drake series. As always, the characters are realistic, multi-faceted, and fully developed. There is plenty of investigative action, unexpected developments, and the well-thought-out details of a realistic police procedural.
I always enjoy the glimpses into Inspector Drake's personal life. They are handled well and help to make him a well-rounded character. I would like to see more about the personal lives of other team members as well, and I'm sure Mr. Puleston will get to them in due time.
I have to give Mr. Puleston credit for two very unusual murder scenes. I'm not sure I have come across anything like them before. A job well done.
I received a review copy from the author at my request and this is my honest opinion.
I always enjoy the glimpses into Inspector Drake's personal life. They are handled well and help to make him a well-rounded character. I would like to see more about the personal lives of other team members as well, and I'm sure Mr. Puleston will get to them in due time.
I have to give Mr. Puleston credit for two very unusual murder scenes. I'm not sure I have come across anything like them before. A job well done.
I received a review copy from the author at my request and this is my honest opinion.
April 26, 2024
#12 LOOKING GOOD DEAD by Stephen Puleston. Another excellent Inspector Drake mystery. This one begins with the return of Ian and Annie after their honeymoon. No time to settle in slowly. A call comes in that a woman’s body has been found hanging in her dress shop, dressed in. 1930’s fashion. Off he goes. It’s another interesting mystery with several characters in the mix. Her husband is the first suspect. But then another person winds up killed in the exact same way. Inspector Drake thinks it looks like revenge. It is another good mystery in Wales. I always want to get a map and follow some of the side trips they make just to see where everything is located. The author is so good at describing the trips required, the reader wants to be there.
March 8, 2024
Looking Good Dead - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Inspector Drake #12 by Stephen Puleston, sees Drake having just returned from honeymoon, called to the eponymous site of a bizarre killing.
Reluctant and sometimes hostile witnesses, the interference of the press, added to the resulting pressure from the ACC, makes Drake and his team's investigation more stressful than ever before.
Can the evil killer be caught before he strikes again?
To see if you can work out the shocking truth, buy a copy of Stephen Puleston's Looking Good Dead today and put your Detective skills to work!
Inspector Drake #12 by Stephen Puleston, sees Drake having just returned from honeymoon, called to the eponymous site of a bizarre killing.
Reluctant and sometimes hostile witnesses, the interference of the press, added to the resulting pressure from the ACC, makes Drake and his team's investigation more stressful than ever before.
Can the evil killer be caught before he strikes again?
To see if you can work out the shocking truth, buy a copy of Stephen Puleston's Looking Good Dead today and put your Detective skills to work!
April 11, 2024
Another good police procedural story from Stephen Puleston. I enjoyed the way the plot took the reader on a not-at-all-straight path to the final discovery of who really did "do it".
Inspector Drake is a character who has changed and developed through this series - and I like Drake as he now is rather more than when I first met him all those books ago.
And now I'm looking forward to the next one!
Inspector Drake is a character who has changed and developed through this series - and I like Drake as he now is rather more than when I first met him all those books ago.
And now I'm looking forward to the next one!
April 18, 2024
Another brilliant book by Stephen Puleston
I looked forward to another story about Inspector Drake and I was not disappointed.
An excellent story full of drama. I didn't guess 'who did it' either.
I always enjoy Stephen's description of an area of Wales I dont know. I find myself wanting to get the map out to follow his journey!
I'm already impatient for another story about Drake or Marco.
If you haven't read any of Stephen books please do. You'll not be disappointed
I looked forward to another story about Inspector Drake and I was not disappointed.
An excellent story full of drama. I didn't guess 'who did it' either.
I always enjoy Stephen's description of an area of Wales I dont know. I find myself wanting to get the map out to follow his journey!
I'm already impatient for another story about Drake or Marco.
If you haven't read any of Stephen books please do. You'll not be disappointed
March 13, 2024
An excellent police procedural with a well written storyline and an outstanding cast of flawed characters. Inspector Drake uses his detective skills to solve several related murders. A real page-turner with plenty of action and lots of twists/turns. Very enjoyable read that I highly recommend.
Keep the Inspector Drake adventures coming.
Keep the Inspector Drake adventures coming.
March 28, 2024
Ian Drake gets assigned to a murder case where a shop owner is dressed in a 1930's outfit hanging from the rafters. Then another murder where a man is dressed in a 1930's outfit in a coffin in a hearse. Ian has to determine if the murders are related or a copycat. This may be the best Ian Drake novel so far.
April 13, 2024
Another wonderful addition to the series!
Inspector Drake and his team are tasked with solving two murders that seem to be connected. If they can only find that connection! Drake is now married and trying to cut back somewhat on his hours but this latest case turns personal. Can they find the culprit before the body count increases?
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
Inspector Drake and his team are tasked with solving two murders that seem to be connected. If they can only find that connection! Drake is now married and trying to cut back somewhat on his hours but this latest case turns personal. Can they find the culprit before the body count increases?
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
April 15, 2024
Another good DI Drake story, having just returned from his honeymoon he is thrust into an intriguing murder case where the victim was dressed in 1930's clothes. It wasn't the only murder in this story and the plot twists and turns until eventually the murderer is revealed. A good enjoyable police thriller.
June 24, 2024
What an ending to this series, this was the best of the lot, but that is not to say the anything against the prior books, they were all excellent. The plot seemed more complex in this book and like the previous books very hard to put down, just kept turning the pages to see what would happen next.
December 4, 2024
An interesting story with an interesting plot.
I love Inspector Drake. His team always works tirelessly to solve the crimes they are called to investigate. This one was a particularly interesting one with the theme of the murder victims and how they were found and dressed. I enjoyed the story immensely.
I love Inspector Drake. His team always works tirelessly to solve the crimes they are called to investigate. This one was a particularly interesting one with the theme of the murder victims and how they were found and dressed. I enjoyed the story immensely.
March 18, 2024
Another great book in the Inspector Drake series from Stephen Puleston. This was a very convoluted investigation with a surprising and very tense ending. I've read every one of the author's books and can't wait for the next one.
April 11, 2024
Drake has his hands full with this one. Victims dressed up in 1930's clothes and suspects who don't give straight answers make this a difficult case to solve.
I enjoy the Inspector Drake mysteries. The characters are always interesting and the mystery keeps me guessing.
I enjoy the Inspector Drake mysteries. The characters are always interesting and the mystery keeps me guessing.
April 18, 2024
Excellent!
I have read every book and enjoyed every one. This was a complicated case with an unexpected ending. Ian Drake is an excellent detective. He and his team are dedicated to solving their cases. And reading about the beauty of Wales is a bonus. I highly recommend this series. Beth P.
I have read every book and enjoyed every one. This was a complicated case with an unexpected ending. Ian Drake is an excellent detective. He and his team are dedicated to solving their cases. And reading about the beauty of Wales is a bonus. I highly recommend this series. Beth P.
April 18, 2024
Bang on once more
I’ve read everything this author has written and he has never failed to produce a completely wonderful experience
Thanks again
Look forward to reading the next one
I’ve read everything this author has written and he has never failed to produce a completely wonderful experience
Thanks again
Look forward to reading the next one
April 19, 2024
Realistic characters in a thrilling murder mystery
This is a book that you won't want to put down, but throughout you also get the family life of the main characters. Which makes it all more realistic.
This is a book that you won't want to put down, but throughout you also get the family life of the main characters. Which makes it all more realistic.
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