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Sam Delaney Mystery #1
When the Bough Breaks
Traffic cop Sal Delaney's past is catching up with her . . . Sunday Times Best-selling author David Mark delivers a pulse-pounding new dark and gritty police procedural series set in the north of England, with a complex, intriguing female protagonist.
"Mark is a superbly gifted writer who creates a bleak, unforgiving setting, deeply damaged characters, and a plot that ramps up the violence, tension, and suspense to an almost unbearable level before an explosive ending that will leave readers utterly shattered" Booklist Starred ReviewNorth of England. Cumbria. Salome Delaney didn't have a great start in life. But her abusive childhood came to a tragic conclusion with the killing of her tyrant mother, Trina, by a jealous ex-boyfriend. At least, that's what the police say. Sal has never believed kind Wulf, who tried to protect her from her mother's dark side, could have committed such a crime, but the evidence was irrefutable . . . and who else could have done it? Now an adult, with a good job as a Collison Investigation Officer, Sal's done her best to put the past behind her. But one snowy morning she's called to an accident scene, and she recognizes the body - Barry Ford, the man her mother left Wulf for, all those years ago. It soon becomes clear this wasn't just an accident - it was murder. And Wulf, now out of prison, lives very close by . . .The question of who really killed her mother has haunted Sal her whole life, but as she launches a complex investigation, which gets darker by the hour, she starts to wonder if she really wants to know the answer after all.This nail-biting series launch will appeal to fans of David Mark's critically acclaimed DS McAvoy series and readers of Denise Mina, Val McDermid, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson.
"Mark is a superbly gifted writer who creates a bleak, unforgiving setting, deeply damaged characters, and a plot that ramps up the violence, tension, and suspense to an almost unbearable level before an explosive ending that will leave readers utterly shattered" Booklist Starred ReviewNorth of England. Cumbria. Salome Delaney didn't have a great start in life. But her abusive childhood came to a tragic conclusion with the killing of her tyrant mother, Trina, by a jealous ex-boyfriend. At least, that's what the police say. Sal has never believed kind Wulf, who tried to protect her from her mother's dark side, could have committed such a crime, but the evidence was irrefutable . . . and who else could have done it? Now an adult, with a good job as a Collison Investigation Officer, Sal's done her best to put the past behind her. But one snowy morning she's called to an accident scene, and she recognizes the body - Barry Ford, the man her mother left Wulf for, all those years ago. It soon becomes clear this wasn't just an accident - it was murder. And Wulf, now out of prison, lives very close by . . .The question of who really killed her mother has haunted Sal her whole life, but as she launches a complex investigation, which gets darker by the hour, she starts to wonder if she really wants to know the answer after all.This nail-biting series launch will appeal to fans of David Mark's critically acclaimed DS McAvoy series and readers of Denise Mina, Val McDermid, Ian Rankin and Peter Robinson.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2024
12 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 12, 2024
Cumbria, in North West England in the bleak midwinter - thick snow covers the landscape, as Collision Investigation Officer, Sal Delaney, is called out to a road traffic accident. What she finds shocks her to the core, and suddenly the memories of her traumatic childhood come flooding back.
Sal and her siblings had a really tough childhood, victims of domestic abuse, which culminated in the murder of their violent monster of a mother, by her ex lover Wulf. The kids never believed that Wulf had carried out the murder, he was the only good thing in their lives - the law thought differently though and Wulf served 20 years in jail.
Sal is certain that the car accident isn’t what it seems, because the victim is Barry Ford, the man her mother left Wulf for. And here’s the thing, Wulf, that kind and caring man has recently been released from prison! Coincidence? Well, we’re about to find out.
A great start to this new series, a complex, twisty multi layered novel, it delivers all the action you would expect from the work of a top rank thriller writer. David Mark manages to combine this with an exploration of family relationships, and the bleak place to which the constant search for pleasure through sensation, can take an individual. Recommended.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC, for which I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange.*
Sal and her siblings had a really tough childhood, victims of domestic abuse, which culminated in the murder of their violent monster of a mother, by her ex lover Wulf. The kids never believed that Wulf had carried out the murder, he was the only good thing in their lives - the law thought differently though and Wulf served 20 years in jail.
Sal is certain that the car accident isn’t what it seems, because the victim is Barry Ford, the man her mother left Wulf for. And here’s the thing, Wulf, that kind and caring man has recently been released from prison! Coincidence? Well, we’re about to find out.
A great start to this new series, a complex, twisty multi layered novel, it delivers all the action you would expect from the work of a top rank thriller writer. David Mark manages to combine this with an exploration of family relationships, and the bleak place to which the constant search for pleasure through sensation, can take an individual. Recommended.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC, for which I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange.*
March 29, 2024
4+
This is the first in a new series from the talented David Mark featuring Sal(ome) Delaney and has a mind blowing introduction. It can certainly be said that Sal, her twin Jarod and the other many siblings have a terrible start in life with their abusive mother from hell, Trina. They live an uncertain, neglectful lifestyle, a constant feeling of being unsafe, that is until PC Wulfric (Wulf) enters their lives. However, when their relationship inevitably ends and Trina moves on, she is murdered and Wulf convicted, but did he do it? That’s the million dollar question but Sal always finds it hard to equate the kind man she knows with such an act of brutality.
In the present day, Sal has done her level best to move on from her traumatic childhood and is a Collision Investigation Officer in Cumbria. One day, she’s sent to assess a car that has crashed in deep snow, ploughed through a dry stone wall and lodged itself in a drift. It’s not just the crashed car she discovers but a body too and not just any body. It’s Barry Ford, the young man that Trina leaves Wulf for and it’s evident it’s murder, not accidental. The spotlight will shine on Wulf once more especially now that he’s out of prison and what’s more, close by.
Wow. A bleak wintery landscape that perfectly matches a bleak story - what a chilling atmosphere the author has created here. It’s a cleverly connected, complex plot which is well written and obviously centres on the premise of whether Wulf did or didn’t kill Trina. The doubters are still out to get him while others remain steadfast in their belief in him. It’s very intriguing as the damage the past has caused, has tampered with memory and so you don’t know for a long time where the truth lies with suspicions flitting back and forth.
The story is told via several points of view and this works extremely well, part muddying waters and part allowing realisation to dawn. Well played Dark Mark and although I do guess the truth it doesn’t mar the unfolding drama one jot. It’s fast paced, contains numerous twists and turns and a few jaw droppers. It’s clearly not a pretty story and one sub plot line becomes dark and heartbreaking. The ending is so tense, it’s a hold your breath affair which reveals manipulation and treachery. As for the characters they’re all well portrayed and I really like Sal and can’t wait to see what happens to her next. Roll on number 2!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Severn House for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This is the first in a new series from the talented David Mark featuring Sal(ome) Delaney and has a mind blowing introduction. It can certainly be said that Sal, her twin Jarod and the other many siblings have a terrible start in life with their abusive mother from hell, Trina. They live an uncertain, neglectful lifestyle, a constant feeling of being unsafe, that is until PC Wulfric (Wulf) enters their lives. However, when their relationship inevitably ends and Trina moves on, she is murdered and Wulf convicted, but did he do it? That’s the million dollar question but Sal always finds it hard to equate the kind man she knows with such an act of brutality.
In the present day, Sal has done her level best to move on from her traumatic childhood and is a Collision Investigation Officer in Cumbria. One day, she’s sent to assess a car that has crashed in deep snow, ploughed through a dry stone wall and lodged itself in a drift. It’s not just the crashed car she discovers but a body too and not just any body. It’s Barry Ford, the young man that Trina leaves Wulf for and it’s evident it’s murder, not accidental. The spotlight will shine on Wulf once more especially now that he’s out of prison and what’s more, close by.
Wow. A bleak wintery landscape that perfectly matches a bleak story - what a chilling atmosphere the author has created here. It’s a cleverly connected, complex plot which is well written and obviously centres on the premise of whether Wulf did or didn’t kill Trina. The doubters are still out to get him while others remain steadfast in their belief in him. It’s very intriguing as the damage the past has caused, has tampered with memory and so you don’t know for a long time where the truth lies with suspicions flitting back and forth.
The story is told via several points of view and this works extremely well, part muddying waters and part allowing realisation to dawn. Well played Dark Mark and although I do guess the truth it doesn’t mar the unfolding drama one jot. It’s fast paced, contains numerous twists and turns and a few jaw droppers. It’s clearly not a pretty story and one sub plot line becomes dark and heartbreaking. The ending is so tense, it’s a hold your breath affair which reveals manipulation and treachery. As for the characters they’re all well portrayed and I really like Sal and can’t wait to see what happens to her next. Roll on number 2!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Severn House for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 12, 2024
I was unsure as to what to expect with this book, as i had never before, read anything by this author…I was very pleasantly surprised.
This is a well written, meaty, psychological crime thriller, set in snowy winter, in the North East of England. Full of murder, mental health issues, child abuse, and neglect, this was at times, quite a bleak read. The characters, and the plot made this a gripping tale, with an ending I did not see coming.
Thanks to the author, and to NetGalley for sending me this free ARC, which I am happy to leave a honest and voluntary review.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a well written, meaty, psychological crime thriller, set in snowy winter, in the North East of England. Full of murder, mental health issues, child abuse, and neglect, this was at times, quite a bleak read. The characters, and the plot made this a gripping tale, with an ending I did not see coming.
Thanks to the author, and to NetGalley for sending me this free ARC, which I am happy to leave a honest and voluntary review.
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 23, 2024
This was the first book I’ve read of his and didn’t know what to expect even though the storyline was a good for me it seemed like the way it was written if I put it down I wouldn’t pick up again but the ending was worth the perseverance
March 2, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for the eARC.
The first in the Sal Delaney series is a dark, at times disturbing read, with child abuse, mental health issues and an unusual serial killer. That said, it was such a riveting read!
It's set in the bleak north of England during a hazardous snowstorm. Sal, a traffic cop, has to deal with a murder during the impossible winter conditions while her mind is in a bad space after her horrendous childhood and a recent heartbreak.
The writing, the atmosphere and the shocking ending make for a spellbinding and riveting read and I recommend it highly! Can't wait to read no. 2 in the series.
The first in the Sal Delaney series is a dark, at times disturbing read, with child abuse, mental health issues and an unusual serial killer. That said, it was such a riveting read!
It's set in the bleak north of England during a hazardous snowstorm. Sal, a traffic cop, has to deal with a murder during the impossible winter conditions while her mind is in a bad space after her horrendous childhood and a recent heartbreak.
The writing, the atmosphere and the shocking ending make for a spellbinding and riveting read and I recommend it highly! Can't wait to read no. 2 in the series.
August 13, 2024
Great read! Keeps you guessing right to the end!
May 7, 2024
‘He’s no danger to anybody. He’s served his time. He should never have been locked up in the first place.’
A new novel from David Mark? The beginning of a new series? I immediately put up my hand to read this. The novel is set in Cumbria in the north of England. Meet Salome (Sal) Delaney. After an abusive childhood, which ended with her mother Trina’s murder, Sal has tried to put the past behind her. In the prologue at the beginning of the novel we learn that Wulfric (Wulf) Hagman, Trina’s former lover, was arrested for Trina’s murder. He was found guilty and gaoled. Time has passed. Sal and her siblings are now adults, Wulf has been released from gaol, and Sal is a Collision Investigation Officer.
A car accident after a snowstorm sees Sal called to the scene. She recognises the body found in the car: it is Barry Ford, the man for whom her mother left Wulf. It soon becomes clear that Ford was murdered and Wulf, who lives close by, is an obvious suspect.
Sal, who never believed that Wulf killed her mother, finds herself drawn back into the past. The memories she tried so hard to bury threaten to overwhelm her. Who murdered Barry Ford? And if Wulf did not murder Trina, who did? Can Sal, and others involved at the time, trust their memories?
Gritty. A disturbing story, told from several viewpoints which includes mental health issues, as well as partner and child abuse. And the ending? Well, I did not anticipate that.
I am keenly awaiting the second book in this series.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
A new novel from David Mark? The beginning of a new series? I immediately put up my hand to read this. The novel is set in Cumbria in the north of England. Meet Salome (Sal) Delaney. After an abusive childhood, which ended with her mother Trina’s murder, Sal has tried to put the past behind her. In the prologue at the beginning of the novel we learn that Wulfric (Wulf) Hagman, Trina’s former lover, was arrested for Trina’s murder. He was found guilty and gaoled. Time has passed. Sal and her siblings are now adults, Wulf has been released from gaol, and Sal is a Collision Investigation Officer.
A car accident after a snowstorm sees Sal called to the scene. She recognises the body found in the car: it is Barry Ford, the man for whom her mother left Wulf. It soon becomes clear that Ford was murdered and Wulf, who lives close by, is an obvious suspect.
Sal, who never believed that Wulf killed her mother, finds herself drawn back into the past. The memories she tried so hard to bury threaten to overwhelm her. Who murdered Barry Ford? And if Wulf did not murder Trina, who did? Can Sal, and others involved at the time, trust their memories?
Gritty. A disturbing story, told from several viewpoints which includes mental health issues, as well as partner and child abuse. And the ending? Well, I did not anticipate that.
I am keenly awaiting the second book in this series.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
June 4, 2024
David Mark has taken a temporary break from his excellent Aector McAvoy series (click the link to find out more) and his latest novel has a prologue that is as violent and visceral as any of the disturbing scenes in Derek Raymond's I Was Dora Suarez. If you have read that masterpiece, you will know what I am talking about. If you haven't, then you should. Here, copper Wulfric Hagman wakes up in a charnel house, apparently of his own creation. His former lover, Trina Delany lies butchered on the bed, while he seems to have tried to hang himself with a length of baler twine.
That was then, but now, Hagman has served a prison sentence, been released, and is now living in a moorland farmhouse he gifted by Jarod, one of Trina's children. His twin sister, Salome is also living there. She is a traffic cop, formally known,in today's jargon, as Collision Investigation Officer. At Hagman's original trial, both Sal and Jarod gave chilling evidence testifying to the abuse they - and the other children - received at Trina's hands.
Against this unusual human background and with the Northumbrian hills carpeted in deep snow, David Mark weaves his magic. The plot is complex, but this is a breakdown of the main characters.
Salome Delaney, police officer.
Jarod Delaney, Sal's twin. Now a farmer, living in a house signed over to him by ...
Wulfric Hagman, former policeman, served a long prison term for the murder of Trina Delaney. He now lodges with the Delaneys.
Dagmara Scrowther, charismatic Children's Services officer. Worked with the Delaney family.
Lewis Beecher, senior police officer, divorced. Has recently ended a long term relationship with Sal Delaney.
Barry Ford. Once a child tearaway, now relatively respectable. Former lover of Trina Delaney.
Detective Superintendent Magda Quinn. Has re-opened the Hagman case, believing him to be guilty of more murders.
With transport paralysed by deep snow, Salome - although on leave - receives a call from a fellow officer asking her to go and investigate a car that has come off the road just a couple of miles away. She clings on grimly as Jarod's quad-bike makes light work of the snow drifts. She finds the wrecked car, but the macabre feeding habits of local crows lead her to a man's body. Some of the crows who have fed on the corpse are collapsing and dying. The reason? The body has had acid poured into his throat.
This grim discovery sets off a train of events that are as violent and disturbing as anything I have read in recent crime fiction. I am a great admirer of David Mark's writing, and I make no apology for frequently comparing his style to that of Derek Raymond. Like Raymond, Mark takes us into dark places where monsters - in human form - ply their trade. Like Raymond's nameless Sergeant in the five Factory novels, Mark's heroes are often gravely damaged, but have a depth of compassion that always brings about a sense of redemption at the end of the journey, no matter how hellish the road.
The body in the snow is eventually identified as being that of Barry Ford, a man who was a troubled youngster but, thanks to the perseverance of Dagmara Scrowther, seems to have turned himself into something of a decent citizen. However, when Salome, hastily drafted back to work as a Family Liaison Officer, has to break the news of Ford's demise to his current girlfriend, she opens a Pandora's Box from which fly demons of cruelty and bestial abuse. Also in the mix is the fate of Lewis Beecher's divorced wife. She and her two daughters - Nola and Lottie - have a new 'dad'. He seems jolly and full of jokes, but is he genuine?
In this superb novel we cross paths with many human monsters. Trina Delaney is one, certainly, and Barry Ford is not far behind. But a third monster lurks in plain sight. Its identity is known to me, but you will have to find out for yourselves. When The Bough Breaks is published by Severn House and is available now.
That was then, but now, Hagman has served a prison sentence, been released, and is now living in a moorland farmhouse he gifted by Jarod, one of Trina's children. His twin sister, Salome is also living there. She is a traffic cop, formally known,in today's jargon, as Collision Investigation Officer. At Hagman's original trial, both Sal and Jarod gave chilling evidence testifying to the abuse they - and the other children - received at Trina's hands.
Against this unusual human background and with the Northumbrian hills carpeted in deep snow, David Mark weaves his magic. The plot is complex, but this is a breakdown of the main characters.
Salome Delaney, police officer.
Jarod Delaney, Sal's twin. Now a farmer, living in a house signed over to him by ...
Wulfric Hagman, former policeman, served a long prison term for the murder of Trina Delaney. He now lodges with the Delaneys.
Dagmara Scrowther, charismatic Children's Services officer. Worked with the Delaney family.
Lewis Beecher, senior police officer, divorced. Has recently ended a long term relationship with Sal Delaney.
Barry Ford. Once a child tearaway, now relatively respectable. Former lover of Trina Delaney.
Detective Superintendent Magda Quinn. Has re-opened the Hagman case, believing him to be guilty of more murders.
With transport paralysed by deep snow, Salome - although on leave - receives a call from a fellow officer asking her to go and investigate a car that has come off the road just a couple of miles away. She clings on grimly as Jarod's quad-bike makes light work of the snow drifts. She finds the wrecked car, but the macabre feeding habits of local crows lead her to a man's body. Some of the crows who have fed on the corpse are collapsing and dying. The reason? The body has had acid poured into his throat.
This grim discovery sets off a train of events that are as violent and disturbing as anything I have read in recent crime fiction. I am a great admirer of David Mark's writing, and I make no apology for frequently comparing his style to that of Derek Raymond. Like Raymond, Mark takes us into dark places where monsters - in human form - ply their trade. Like Raymond's nameless Sergeant in the five Factory novels, Mark's heroes are often gravely damaged, but have a depth of compassion that always brings about a sense of redemption at the end of the journey, no matter how hellish the road.
The body in the snow is eventually identified as being that of Barry Ford, a man who was a troubled youngster but, thanks to the perseverance of Dagmara Scrowther, seems to have turned himself into something of a decent citizen. However, when Salome, hastily drafted back to work as a Family Liaison Officer, has to break the news of Ford's demise to his current girlfriend, she opens a Pandora's Box from which fly demons of cruelty and bestial abuse. Also in the mix is the fate of Lewis Beecher's divorced wife. She and her two daughters - Nola and Lottie - have a new 'dad'. He seems jolly and full of jokes, but is he genuine?
In this superb novel we cross paths with many human monsters. Trina Delaney is one, certainly, and Barry Ford is not far behind. But a third monster lurks in plain sight. Its identity is known to me, but you will have to find out for yourselves. When The Bough Breaks is published by Severn House and is available now.
April 21, 2024
3.5 stars. This is a complex, dark, and gritty thriller. I have read David Mark's entertaining series featuring Aector McAvoy and enjoyed his stand-alones. I regret that this one didn't work for me as well as his previous books. There was a lot of violence and twists, and the story was intense. I found the characters were deeply damaged, had faulty memories or memories they imagined, were deceptive, and had multi-layered personalities, and it was difficult for me to engage with them. The story was atmospheric, set in North England with chilly weather and a raging snowstorm. There were many British terms, colloquialisms, and slang. I looked up some unfamilair terms or guessed from context. A social worker was involved with the unhappy family.
Sal (Salomi) Delaney came from an abusive home. Her mother terrorized her eight children until she was killed. A kind and gentle Wulf was blamed for the crime, sentenced to twenty years in prison, and suspended from the police force. He was in a relationship with their mother but acted as a protector of the children from her explosive temper and other abuse. The children could not believe that Wulf was guilty of the crime. He had been replaced in the family home and the mother's
affections by a younger married man, Barry Ford, and it was thought his jealousy resulted in the murder. This is a tale of child abuse and neglect with treachery and some gruesome violence.
Sal is an adult and became a traffic cop and she is now a collision investigator. She has managed to eliminate many of her traumatic memories. She has always wanted to see Wulf get an early release, and there is a group advocating for his freedom. On a day when most roads are closed or impassible due to a hazardous blizzard, she has been called to investigate a crash where a car has run through a snowbank and hit a wall. A body is found near the accident. He had been injured, but someone had poured acid down his throat and killed him. The victim is identified as Barry Ford, and Wulf has completed his prison sentence and immediately becomes the chief suspect. Now, Sal's disturbing past comes rushing back to her mind. She is determined to prove Wulf innocent of this second crime. Wulf is now living with Sal's twin brother, whose mind is muddled from years of substance abuse.
She projects a kind, calm, and intelligent manner when interviewing witnesses. She learns of an alternate suspect who may have killed her mother. Who killed Barry with the acid? The ending is shocking and thrilling. I would be interested in the second book in the Sal Delaney series. I found her to be a fascinating character.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for the ARC. The publication date is set for June 4th.
Sal (Salomi) Delaney came from an abusive home. Her mother terrorized her eight children until she was killed. A kind and gentle Wulf was blamed for the crime, sentenced to twenty years in prison, and suspended from the police force. He was in a relationship with their mother but acted as a protector of the children from her explosive temper and other abuse. The children could not believe that Wulf was guilty of the crime. He had been replaced in the family home and the mother's
affections by a younger married man, Barry Ford, and it was thought his jealousy resulted in the murder. This is a tale of child abuse and neglect with treachery and some gruesome violence.
Sal is an adult and became a traffic cop and she is now a collision investigator. She has managed to eliminate many of her traumatic memories. She has always wanted to see Wulf get an early release, and there is a group advocating for his freedom. On a day when most roads are closed or impassible due to a hazardous blizzard, she has been called to investigate a crash where a car has run through a snowbank and hit a wall. A body is found near the accident. He had been injured, but someone had poured acid down his throat and killed him. The victim is identified as Barry Ford, and Wulf has completed his prison sentence and immediately becomes the chief suspect. Now, Sal's disturbing past comes rushing back to her mind. She is determined to prove Wulf innocent of this second crime. Wulf is now living with Sal's twin brother, whose mind is muddled from years of substance abuse.
She projects a kind, calm, and intelligent manner when interviewing witnesses. She learns of an alternate suspect who may have killed her mother. Who killed Barry with the acid? The ending is shocking and thrilling. I would be interested in the second book in the Sal Delaney series. I found her to be a fascinating character.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for the ARC. The publication date is set for June 4th.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2024
I have read quite a few stand alone books by this author and have thoroughly enjoyed every one. I also have his Aector McAvoy series to play catch-up with, so it was with great delight that I was able to get in at the beginning of this, a new series featuring Collision Investigation Officer (Traffic Cop) Sal Delaney. She has a bit of a past, mostly regarding the murder of her mother at the hands of her step-father, Wulf, who was convicted, but I will leave you to discover all the juicy details of that as the author intends. Suffice to say she is doing her best to leave her past behind her and get on with things and, up to now, has been doing a pretty good job of it. Until she is called to the scene of an accident and recognises the deceased as being the man her mother left Wulf for, many years ago. With Wulf now out of prison and living nearby, and the "accident" not really stacking up as such, well... you can see where we are going. But, that'd be a pretty boring, and short, book. Instead, we have Sal, who was never really convinced of Wulf's guilt, not only fighting to save him again, but also get to what she feels is the real truth of what happened to her mother many years ago...
Oh my days, this book literally hit the ground running, grabbed me from the off, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end wholly satisfied but also quite exhausted. I already knew this might be the case so I made sure that I cleared my decks before going in, and I am so glad I did just that as I really didn't want to put the book down.
It's so very cleverly plotted and said plot well ably executed. With its twists and turns and forays into the past, it really did have me on the edge of my seat throughout. With the usual secrets and lies and a side order of dysfunctional behaviour you'd expect, I could only watch as the action played out in front of me.
And Sal herself, well, I took to her right from the start too. She's a cracking character with just the right amount of tortured past to define her present. And with grit and tenacity, she really is a force to reckon with. Yes the book delves into some quite heavy subject matter - nothing new in this genre and I am not about to trigger warn you - but it does get a bit on the bleak side on occasion. But there are the lighter moments which prevent the book from getting too dark and keep it balanced.
And the ending... brilliant... and that's all I'm saying. You'll have to read the book fro yourself. Me I'm hanging for book two... My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Oh my days, this book literally hit the ground running, grabbed me from the off, held me captive throughout, spitting me out at the end wholly satisfied but also quite exhausted. I already knew this might be the case so I made sure that I cleared my decks before going in, and I am so glad I did just that as I really didn't want to put the book down.
It's so very cleverly plotted and said plot well ably executed. With its twists and turns and forays into the past, it really did have me on the edge of my seat throughout. With the usual secrets and lies and a side order of dysfunctional behaviour you'd expect, I could only watch as the action played out in front of me.
And Sal herself, well, I took to her right from the start too. She's a cracking character with just the right amount of tortured past to define her present. And with grit and tenacity, she really is a force to reckon with. Yes the book delves into some quite heavy subject matter - nothing new in this genre and I am not about to trigger warn you - but it does get a bit on the bleak side on occasion. But there are the lighter moments which prevent the book from getting too dark and keep it balanced.
And the ending... brilliant... and that's all I'm saying. You'll have to read the book fro yourself. Me I'm hanging for book two... My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
June 5, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
When the Bough Breaks by David Mark is a compelling addition to the crime and mystery genre, marking the beginning of a new series that promises to captivate readers with its intricate plot and deeply flawed characters.
Set against the bleak backdrop of Cumbria, England, the novel opens with a jarring scene from 1995: Police Constable Wulfric Hagman, in a drunken haze, discovers the brutalized body of his wife, Trina. His subsequent arrest and conviction for her murder set the stage for a story that unfolds over decades, revealing layers of family trauma and systemic failure.
The narrative is masterfully fragmented, shifting through time and perspectives, including a poignant letter from Trina’s daughter, Salome Delaney, which paints a more sympathetic picture of Wulf as a protective stepfather. The plot thickens with the murder of Barry Ford, Trina’s lover, implicating Wulf once again, just as he is released from prison.
Sal, now a police officer, and her brother Jarod become central to the story as they navigate their traumatic past and the complexities of their present investigation to clear their stepfather’s name. Their journey is not just a quest for justice but also a search for closure and understanding of their family’s dark history.
David Mark’s writing is sharp and evocative, creating a world where the coldness of the landscape mirrors the isolation of its inhabitants. The author’s experience with the DS Aector McAvoy novels is evident in the tight police procedural elements and the suspense that drives the narrative forward.
When the Bough Breaks is an exploration of the human condition, the bonds of family, and the lengths to which one will go to protect loved ones. It’s a story that resonates with the resilience of its characters and leaves readers pondering the true meaning of justice and redemption.
Mark has delivered a novel that is both a page-turner and a thought-provoking piece, ensuring that readers will eagerly await the next installment in the Sal Delaney series
When the Bough Breaks by David Mark is a compelling addition to the crime and mystery genre, marking the beginning of a new series that promises to captivate readers with its intricate plot and deeply flawed characters.
Set against the bleak backdrop of Cumbria, England, the novel opens with a jarring scene from 1995: Police Constable Wulfric Hagman, in a drunken haze, discovers the brutalized body of his wife, Trina. His subsequent arrest and conviction for her murder set the stage for a story that unfolds over decades, revealing layers of family trauma and systemic failure.
The narrative is masterfully fragmented, shifting through time and perspectives, including a poignant letter from Trina’s daughter, Salome Delaney, which paints a more sympathetic picture of Wulf as a protective stepfather. The plot thickens with the murder of Barry Ford, Trina’s lover, implicating Wulf once again, just as he is released from prison.
Sal, now a police officer, and her brother Jarod become central to the story as they navigate their traumatic past and the complexities of their present investigation to clear their stepfather’s name. Their journey is not just a quest for justice but also a search for closure and understanding of their family’s dark history.
David Mark’s writing is sharp and evocative, creating a world where the coldness of the landscape mirrors the isolation of its inhabitants. The author’s experience with the DS Aector McAvoy novels is evident in the tight police procedural elements and the suspense that drives the narrative forward.
When the Bough Breaks is an exploration of the human condition, the bonds of family, and the lengths to which one will go to protect loved ones. It’s a story that resonates with the resilience of its characters and leaves readers pondering the true meaning of justice and redemption.
Mark has delivered a novel that is both a page-turner and a thought-provoking piece, ensuring that readers will eagerly await the next installment in the Sal Delaney series
May 29, 2024
When her mother's lover supposedly killed her, for Salome Delaney it was almost a relief in some way, given the abuse she had suffered at her mother's hands for years. The only thing is, Salome has always found it hard to accept that Wulf, whom she liked so much, would be capable of such violence...
Now Sal herself is a police officer, investigating traffic collisions, so she has come a long way. Until her past suddenly re-emerges when she discovers that a fatality in a traffic accident is in fact another of her mother's boyfriends! A man named Barry Ford, who is the person her mother left Wulf for.
The same Wulf who is now out of prison and living nearby. How can all of these things possibility a coincidence? And if they aren't, then where does the truth of the matter really lie?
This is a gritty crime thriller with a compelling protagonist, which will undoubtedly find many fans. A good read, it gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Now Sal herself is a police officer, investigating traffic collisions, so she has come a long way. Until her past suddenly re-emerges when she discovers that a fatality in a traffic accident is in fact another of her mother's boyfriends! A man named Barry Ford, who is the person her mother left Wulf for.
The same Wulf who is now out of prison and living nearby. How can all of these things possibility a coincidence? And if they aren't, then where does the truth of the matter really lie?
This is a gritty crime thriller with a compelling protagonist, which will undoubtedly find many fans. A good read, it gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
March 21, 2025
In an often drab crime fiction landscape, David Mark stands out as an extraordinarily bold and talented storyteller. This is one of his very best books. It's astonishingly dark, exploring society's most heinous crimes: abuse, torture and murder. There are scenes which are heartbreakingly graphic where mental and physical damage converge. The author questions the real meaning of guilt and asks if anyone is truly innocent. Sometimes the line between good and evil begins to blur...
This is a thriller, a page turner, but also a profoundly important book, looking as it does at man's incredible ability to be cruel to his fellow men (and women!). The characterisation is absolutely stunning in its stark depiction of human cowardice, cruelty and black despair but also reveals extraordinary acts of bravery in the face of adversity. Sal is a character I will never forget.
An indictment of our failing social care system.
This is a thriller, a page turner, but also a profoundly important book, looking as it does at man's incredible ability to be cruel to his fellow men (and women!). The characterisation is absolutely stunning in its stark depiction of human cowardice, cruelty and black despair but also reveals extraordinary acts of bravery in the face of adversity. Sal is a character I will never forget.
An indictment of our failing social care system.
June 18, 2024
I have been reading David Mark’s books for some years now and he never disappoints. His Aector McAvoy series is brilliant and he had done several stand alone novels.
When the Bough Breaks is the start of a new series featuring Sal Delaney, a Collision Investigation Officer for the Cumbrian Police.
Sal is called out to an accident on a hard snowy night and what she finds brings back memories of her childhood and the murder of her mother for which the person Sal trusted most is accused and found guilty.
The reader is transported back to Sal, and her siblings, childhood and the brutal things they witnessed and suffered. Who is telling the truth? Have they really got Sal’s best interest at heart. Is the murderer right to do what they have done. You’ll have to make your own mind up.
When the Bough Breaks is the start of a new series featuring Sal Delaney, a Collision Investigation Officer for the Cumbrian Police.
Sal is called out to an accident on a hard snowy night and what she finds brings back memories of her childhood and the murder of her mother for which the person Sal trusted most is accused and found guilty.
The reader is transported back to Sal, and her siblings, childhood and the brutal things they witnessed and suffered. Who is telling the truth? Have they really got Sal’s best interest at heart. Is the murderer right to do what they have done. You’ll have to make your own mind up.
February 29, 2024
I have been aware of David Mark for a long time but this was the first of his books that I have ever read - and it certainly won't be the last as I will shortly be devouring his back catalogue of police procedurals.
This is a densely plotted, dark and gritty tale set in a fairly bleak North of England with an exceptional sense of time and place.
The characters are fascinating and well developed rather than cartoon cutouts and the story of murder, mental health treachery and deception grabs your attention form the first page.
This is an exceptionally well written thriller that shocks and thrills in equal doses and merits your close attention.
This is a densely plotted, dark and gritty tale set in a fairly bleak North of England with an exceptional sense of time and place.
The characters are fascinating and well developed rather than cartoon cutouts and the story of murder, mental health treachery and deception grabs your attention form the first page.
This is an exceptionally well written thriller that shocks and thrills in equal doses and merits your close attention.
June 25, 2024
Read this one in bits and pieces, so maybe that's why it seemed a bit disjointed. Kind of figured who the killer might be early on. After the end, I had to reread a part where someone gets killed and how and by whom. I still don't understand why this was in there and what the purpose was. Maybe it will feature in another installment? The start of a new series. Not as good as McAvoy, that's for sure. The new character is like other tortured cop characters and so far of not much interest, as far as I'm concerned. The writing is still really good, so we'll see. Maybe the next one will be more to my liking.
May 25, 2024
A good start to a new series. Sal's early life was a misery in so many ways but the one bright light was Wulf, was later convicted of killing her mother. Now, she's pulled herself together and is working in Cumbria as a traffic cop but the discovery of the body of the man her mother left Wulf for opens up a can of worms. This packs a lot into a relatively slim volume but it's atmospheric (love the setting) and twisty. And I didn't guess the ending. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Happy that Mark has created a new character.
June 4, 2024
The story begins in Cumbria 1995 with an unfortunate incident where Wulf is convicted of the murder of Tina Delaney. Fast forward to the present time, Salome Delaney is living on the family farm that once belonged to Wulf, with her twin brother. Sal is a Traffic Collision Officer and she is sent to the scene of a car accident. However, all is not as it seems. It was an unputdownable book which had me racing to the end with a dramatic conclusion. The victim is someone from Sal's past with connections to her Mum! It was well written and very descriptive. I recommend this book.
May 11, 2024
This complex, twisty tale is a great start to a new series featuring Sal Delaney and it left me eager to find out what is in store in the next book. I loved the Cumbrian setting and the well portrayed characters, especially Jarod, what a complex person he is. It's a dark read, featuring child abuse and mental health but it is strangely compelling and one I would recommend. thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.
May 18, 2024
A bleak story, a bleak setting, a grim story heartbreaking at time. I was moved and was on the edge.
This promises to become an excellent series, this one is very tense and a bit disturbing at times.
An excellent thriller with a lot of darkness
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
This promises to become an excellent series, this one is very tense and a bit disturbing at times.
An excellent thriller with a lot of darkness
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
June 17, 2024
A harrowing and enthralling psychological crime thriller. When Sal was a little girl, her mum Trina was killed. Her ex-lover, local policeman Wulf was convicted of her murder, but was he guilty? A terrifying mystery that will thrust their darkest secrets into the light.
June 19, 2025
very difficult reading
The way this story is composed is complicated and was hard for me to follow. However, I didn’t guess the “bad guy” and so that’s why it got 2 stars from me instead of one.
The way this story is composed is complicated and was hard for me to follow. However, I didn’t guess the “bad guy” and so that’s why it got 2 stars from me instead of one.
July 7, 2025
Completely brokenly complex characters woven into the story of such authentic imperfect lives. Descriptive writing that kept me guessing to the very end. I very well may have a new author to add to my favorites category.
August 26, 2024
Very poor so glad its over
October 12, 2024
Complex. I occasionally found it difficult to keep track of the various characters and their network of connections.
July 31, 2025
Once again David Mark has excelled at writing a truly gripping yet heartbreaking read. It contains child abuse, violence and marital trauma but despite all this is a com4gripping read.
April 20, 2024
Ten years ago I read David Mark's debut Dark Winter. A book I recall being big on character and setting, but let down by a slightly disappointing plot.
Ten years on and I've just read When the Bough Breaks, the first book in his new Sal Delaney series and find myself with a comparable book.
Salome 'Sal' Delaney, like Aector McAvoy before her, is a memorable and instantly likeable character who arrives fully formed on the page.
Reading Dark Winter, and being familiar with its setting, it was clear that the author had a working knowledge of Hull, its residents and their quirks and foibles. I have little experience of Cumbria and its surroundings, but got the same impression from When the Bough Breaks.
The plot is a major improvement on the first DS McAvoy title, which is to be expected of an author who's much further into their career, but is again let down by an ending that's in large parts heavily telegraphed and predictable.
All in all a promising start to a new series.
Ten years on and I've just read When the Bough Breaks, the first book in his new Sal Delaney series and find myself with a comparable book.
Salome 'Sal' Delaney, like Aector McAvoy before her, is a memorable and instantly likeable character who arrives fully formed on the page.
Reading Dark Winter, and being familiar with its setting, it was clear that the author had a working knowledge of Hull, its residents and their quirks and foibles. I have little experience of Cumbria and its surroundings, but got the same impression from When the Bough Breaks.
The plot is a major improvement on the first DS McAvoy title, which is to be expected of an author who's much further into their career, but is again let down by an ending that's in large parts heavily telegraphed and predictable.
All in all a promising start to a new series.
October 3, 2025
A good book with lots of different characters. The book has a mental health focus as related to a murder that happen in a home with young children. Beware of those who offer help! It was a bit confusing, but I chalk that up to reading it mostly in short spurts while waiting for children to get out of school. I will read the second book in this series.
Borrowed from the Berkley, Michigan Public Library System.
Borrowed from the Berkley, Michigan Public Library System.
March 29, 2024
Seems like at the moment I am the bad apple in the cart, I do love the DS Aector McAvoy series by the same author, but I couldn't get to grips with the new series., hard to get into, not interested in the characters, 'pulse pounding' nope, thriller not very, yes a twisty turn at the end. Porridge for me, My review is mine please give it a try I hope you enjoy it.
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