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Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson #2
Silent Ritual
An ear-shattering scream pierces the quiet Glasgow street as a mother stands frozen in her doorway, groceries strewn at her feet. Her son holds a bloodied knife while his father lies dead before him. As Logan Martin begins his prison sentence for the brutal murder of his father, the eighteen-year-old’s aunt hires private investigator Teàrlach Paterson. She believes Logan is innocent and wants Teàrlach to uncover the truth.
Teàrlach’s visit to the Martin family home yields two disturbing discoveries: a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom, and a link to the sinister deaths of their elderly neighbours—a journal with the same ominous symbol lies in the couple's home.
While ritualistic murders plague the city, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, Teàrlach and his team unearth the sinister inspiration behind the killings in a mysterious ancient map.
Then, two young women are reported missing, and Teàrlach fears the worst. He’s inching closer to a killer who is weaving a complex web of murder rooted in Glasgow’s pagan past. But can Teàrlach stop the twisted soul from carrying out another cruel ritual? This time, one of his own is about to be in grave danger.
A completely thrilling and atmospheric page-turner that will keep you reading deep into the night from a CWA New Blood Dagger Longlist author and McIlvanney Best Scottish Crime Novel Finalist. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, Ann Cleeves, and Val McDermid.
Teàrlach’s visit to the Martin family home yields two disturbing discoveries: a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom, and a link to the sinister deaths of their elderly neighbours—a journal with the same ominous symbol lies in the couple's home.
While ritualistic murders plague the city, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, Teàrlach and his team unearth the sinister inspiration behind the killings in a mysterious ancient map.
Then, two young women are reported missing, and Teàrlach fears the worst. He’s inching closer to a killer who is weaving a complex web of murder rooted in Glasgow’s pagan past. But can Teàrlach stop the twisted soul from carrying out another cruel ritual? This time, one of his own is about to be in grave danger.
A completely thrilling and atmospheric page-turner that will keep you reading deep into the night from a CWA New Blood Dagger Longlist author and McIlvanney Best Scottish Crime Novel Finalist. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, Ann Cleeves, and Val McDermid.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 27, 2024
Lauren Martin returns home to the most horrific scene imaginable - her husband Keith lies dead from multiple stab wounds, and her 18 year old son Logan stands with a bloodied knife in his hand. His sister Jade was in her bedroom during the attack so claims she didn’t see anything, and as she was wearing headphones she didn’t hear anything either.
Logan confesses to the murder and is now serving a prison sentence. However, Logan’s aunt Nicole doesn’t believe that Logan was responsible, she maintains that he’s just the most gentle person ever, so she hires Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson to find out the truth.
Teàrlach has no idea how he’s going to do that, after what (to all intents and purposes) appears to be a closed case - after all, Logan was discovered with the bloodied knife, and also admitted his guilt, but Nicole begs him to take the case, so he agrees to work for her.
A visit to the Martin’s home reveals a pentagram under the carpet in Jade’s bedroom, the same pentagram that was discovered in the house next door, where a year previously, the elderly owners were found dead in bizarre circumstances. Looks like Teàrlach has found a link, and there’s more to follow!
Meanwhile there’s a ritualistic killer stalking the streets of Glasgow, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, and though he has no proof that it’s got anything to do with the Martin case, Teàrlach has this niggling feeling that they’re connected.
Ably assisted by Dee and Chloe, Teàrlach ventures into the dark side, (quite literally), as the occult is heavily involved, both in the Martin case and the ritualistic killer.
With much use of smoke and mirrors, many twists and turns, and an intriguing storyline, Silent Ritual is a great addition to the Tartan Noir genre.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Logan confesses to the murder and is now serving a prison sentence. However, Logan’s aunt Nicole doesn’t believe that Logan was responsible, she maintains that he’s just the most gentle person ever, so she hires Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson to find out the truth.
Teàrlach has no idea how he’s going to do that, after what (to all intents and purposes) appears to be a closed case - after all, Logan was discovered with the bloodied knife, and also admitted his guilt, but Nicole begs him to take the case, so he agrees to work for her.
A visit to the Martin’s home reveals a pentagram under the carpet in Jade’s bedroom, the same pentagram that was discovered in the house next door, where a year previously, the elderly owners were found dead in bizarre circumstances. Looks like Teàrlach has found a link, and there’s more to follow!
Meanwhile there’s a ritualistic killer stalking the streets of Glasgow, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, and though he has no proof that it’s got anything to do with the Martin case, Teàrlach has this niggling feeling that they’re connected.
Ably assisted by Dee and Chloe, Teàrlach ventures into the dark side, (quite literally), as the occult is heavily involved, both in the Martin case and the ritualistic killer.
With much use of smoke and mirrors, many twists and turns, and an intriguing storyline, Silent Ritual is a great addition to the Tartan Noir genre.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
July 25, 2024
EXCERPT: Seaview Drive is an unremarkable street in a quiet and forgotten backwater of Northwest Glasgow. Twelve story apartment pack families close like battery hens and loom over a squat row of terrace houses huddled on the other side of the street. Built in the 1960s to house families from condemned inner-city slums, the buildings now protest their age like geriatrics. The terrace houses are numbered one to twenty and are eagerly sought after by those cloud-dwellers who yearn for the luxury of a patch of garden and front door at ground level. They nestle at the foot of their towering neighbours, stunted in the perpetual shade these gargantuans cast over an urban concrete jungle.
Number seventeen was unique only due to the shaft of sunlight that threaded between two adjacent tower blocks every midday, throwing a golden beam of light for almost an hour upon its bricks and rough mortar, windows and red roof tiles. Anyone of a religious persuasion might imagine some holy miracle occurred here - a virgin birth or other celestial sleight of hand captured in heaven's spotlight.
Inside, there are signs that differentiate this house from its seemingly identical neighbours. The pentagram etched onto a bedroom floor; the body weeping blood from a hundred deep wounds; the young man frozen into inaction with a knife still held in his hand.
ABOUT 'SILENT RITUAL': An ear-shattering scream pierces the quiet Glasgow street as a mother stands frozen in her doorway, groceries strewn at her feet. Her son holds a bloodied knife while his father lies dead before him.
As Logan Martin begins his prison sentence for the brutal murder of his father, the eighteen-year-old’s aunt hires private investigator Teàrlach Paterson. She believes Logan is innocent and wants Teàrlach to uncover the truth.
Teàrlach’s visit to the Martin family home yields two disturbing discoveries: a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom, and a link to the sinister deaths of their elderly neighbours—a journal with the same ominous symbol lies in the couple's home.
While ritualistic murders plague the city, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, Teàrlach and his team unearth the sinister inspiration behind the killings in a mysterious ancient map.
Then, two young women are reported missing, and Teàrlach fears the worst. He’s inching closer to a killer who is weaving a complex web of murder rooted in Glasgow’s pagan past. But can Teàrlach stop the twisted soul from carrying out another cruel ritual? This time, one of his own is about to be in grave danger.
MY THOUGHTS: The story begins with a shocking scene: a mother witnesses her son holding a bloodied knife over his dead father. This sets the stage for an intricate and thrilling story.
Teàrlach Paterson is engaged by the boy's aunt who is certain that her nephew didn't murder his father, despite the fact that he has confessed to doing so. The ensuing drama is an edge-of-the-seat ride as bodies, both current and historical, pile up in an investigation that encompasses ritualistic murders, ancient pagan practices, police corruption and a drug manufacturing operation.
The characters are as important to this drama as the intense and disturbing plot. Teàrlach Paterson, Dee and Chloe make an outstanding team, each having their own field of expertise, each committed to solving a case that everyone else thought was resolved. None of them are afraid to put themselves on the line, or into danger.
I have not read the first book in this series, but I will be finding a copy because I want to know more about the backgrounds of these three main characters. This is a series I will be following. Silent Ritual is thrilling, chilling, twisty and addictive.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#SilentRitual #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Prior to writing I have had a career that encompassed aerospace engineering, live sound and music and running my own audio-visual company.
DISCLSOURE: Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Silent Ritual by James Arthur Greig for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Number seventeen was unique only due to the shaft of sunlight that threaded between two adjacent tower blocks every midday, throwing a golden beam of light for almost an hour upon its bricks and rough mortar, windows and red roof tiles. Anyone of a religious persuasion might imagine some holy miracle occurred here - a virgin birth or other celestial sleight of hand captured in heaven's spotlight.
Inside, there are signs that differentiate this house from its seemingly identical neighbours. The pentagram etched onto a bedroom floor; the body weeping blood from a hundred deep wounds; the young man frozen into inaction with a knife still held in his hand.
ABOUT 'SILENT RITUAL': An ear-shattering scream pierces the quiet Glasgow street as a mother stands frozen in her doorway, groceries strewn at her feet. Her son holds a bloodied knife while his father lies dead before him.
As Logan Martin begins his prison sentence for the brutal murder of his father, the eighteen-year-old’s aunt hires private investigator Teàrlach Paterson. She believes Logan is innocent and wants Teàrlach to uncover the truth.
Teàrlach’s visit to the Martin family home yields two disturbing discoveries: a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom, and a link to the sinister deaths of their elderly neighbours—a journal with the same ominous symbol lies in the couple's home.
While ritualistic murders plague the city, bodies placed precisely on an occult pentagram, bound in intricate knots, Teàrlach and his team unearth the sinister inspiration behind the killings in a mysterious ancient map.
Then, two young women are reported missing, and Teàrlach fears the worst. He’s inching closer to a killer who is weaving a complex web of murder rooted in Glasgow’s pagan past. But can Teàrlach stop the twisted soul from carrying out another cruel ritual? This time, one of his own is about to be in grave danger.
MY THOUGHTS: The story begins with a shocking scene: a mother witnesses her son holding a bloodied knife over his dead father. This sets the stage for an intricate and thrilling story.
Teàrlach Paterson is engaged by the boy's aunt who is certain that her nephew didn't murder his father, despite the fact that he has confessed to doing so. The ensuing drama is an edge-of-the-seat ride as bodies, both current and historical, pile up in an investigation that encompasses ritualistic murders, ancient pagan practices, police corruption and a drug manufacturing operation.
The characters are as important to this drama as the intense and disturbing plot. Teàrlach Paterson, Dee and Chloe make an outstanding team, each having their own field of expertise, each committed to solving a case that everyone else thought was resolved. None of them are afraid to put themselves on the line, or into danger.
I have not read the first book in this series, but I will be finding a copy because I want to know more about the backgrounds of these three main characters. This is a series I will be following. Silent Ritual is thrilling, chilling, twisty and addictive.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.3
#SilentRitual #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Prior to writing I have had a career that encompassed aerospace engineering, live sound and music and running my own audio-visual company.
DISCLSOURE: Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Silent Ritual by James Arthur Greig for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
May 13, 2024
Teàlach Paterson #2
The second novel in this very good series has a devilish start as Lauren Martin arrives at her Glasgow home to discover her husband Keith is dead and her son Logan holding a blooded knife. Logan is just seventeen when he’s found guilty of his father‘s murder and is incarcerated in Barlinnie Jail. This is two months ago, however, Logan’s aunt and Keith’s sister doesn’t believe Logan is guilty for one minute and he’s hired PI Teàrlach (pronounced Sher-Loch, clever, eh?!) who is ably assisted by Dee and Chloe. Although he’s unconvinced, Teàrlach starts to investigate and makes an unsettling discovery of a concealed pentagram in the Martin household. In addition, be very wary of one particular taxi driver….. What is going on in the bonnie city of Glasgow?
I absolutely loved the first book in the series and thoroughly enjoyed this one. I’m pleased to say it’s very different in every possible way from the first. This is dark, dark Tartan Noir, so obviously I’m well and truly there for it! It’s extremely well written, Andrew James Greg has a real way with words. For example, there’s one chapter entitled Poetry and his words are indeed poetic and there are some beautiful descriptions. Where the writing needs to be raw, it’s exactly that and in other places it’s brimming with dramatic tension.
The plot line is extremely intriguing and it follows a fascinating occult element, intertwined with aspects of Glasgow and its surrounds, there’s folklore and so on. It’s both twisty and twisted and what is uncovered is unsettling, unnerving, uncomfortable or downright shocking and horrifying. It seems that there are coincidences, and even a conspiracy to get to the bottom of. It becomes increasingly dangerous and at one point I find myself shouting ‘No’…. It gets very close to home, too close. The ending is a good one, partly dramatic and the ultimate is a smile.
What of the characters? Fantastic. They all feel very authentic, you can visualise them and also like them. They rely on each other‘s different skills and that’s what makes them a good team. I like the vibes between Teàrlach and Dee too!
Overall, another immersive read from start to finish.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
The second novel in this very good series has a devilish start as Lauren Martin arrives at her Glasgow home to discover her husband Keith is dead and her son Logan holding a blooded knife. Logan is just seventeen when he’s found guilty of his father‘s murder and is incarcerated in Barlinnie Jail. This is two months ago, however, Logan’s aunt and Keith’s sister doesn’t believe Logan is guilty for one minute and he’s hired PI Teàrlach (pronounced Sher-Loch, clever, eh?!) who is ably assisted by Dee and Chloe. Although he’s unconvinced, Teàrlach starts to investigate and makes an unsettling discovery of a concealed pentagram in the Martin household. In addition, be very wary of one particular taxi driver….. What is going on in the bonnie city of Glasgow?
I absolutely loved the first book in the series and thoroughly enjoyed this one. I’m pleased to say it’s very different in every possible way from the first. This is dark, dark Tartan Noir, so obviously I’m well and truly there for it! It’s extremely well written, Andrew James Greg has a real way with words. For example, there’s one chapter entitled Poetry and his words are indeed poetic and there are some beautiful descriptions. Where the writing needs to be raw, it’s exactly that and in other places it’s brimming with dramatic tension.
The plot line is extremely intriguing and it follows a fascinating occult element, intertwined with aspects of Glasgow and its surrounds, there’s folklore and so on. It’s both twisty and twisted and what is uncovered is unsettling, unnerving, uncomfortable or downright shocking and horrifying. It seems that there are coincidences, and even a conspiracy to get to the bottom of. It becomes increasingly dangerous and at one point I find myself shouting ‘No’…. It gets very close to home, too close. The ending is a good one, partly dramatic and the ultimate is a smile.
What of the characters? Fantastic. They all feel very authentic, you can visualise them and also like them. They rely on each other‘s different skills and that’s what makes them a good team. I like the vibes between Teàrlach and Dee too!
Overall, another immersive read from start to finish.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 19, 2024
A father brutally murdered, a son imprisoned, a family shattered. Lauren Martin and her daughter Jade were shell shocked by what had happened. When Jade's Aunt Nicole approached Teàrlach Paterson, Private Investigator, asking him to discover the real killer of her brother, as she knew her nephew hadn't done it, he and his team of Dee and Chloe were thrust into a confusion of ritualistic events across Glasgow that would test them to their limits.
As first one body was discovered, then another and another, Teàrlach and his team, as well as the local police, knew there was a serial killer roaming Glasgow. But what they didn't - yet - know was that it was a ritual with a pentagram at its centre. And the intricate knots that bound each body had a meaning. Chloe's brother Leo, knew knots and was able to give them some answers - and the race was on. But with Teàrlach getting closer to the killer, so too was danger getting closer to them. Would they find the answers, and the killer, before more murders occurred?
Silent Ritual is the 2nd in the Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson series by Andrew James Greig and it was gripping, intense and chilling. The main three characters - Teàrlach, Dee and Chloe - are well crafted and I'm looking forward to reading more about them. I very much enjoyed the first in the series - The Girl in the Loch - and Silent Ritual was just as good. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
As first one body was discovered, then another and another, Teàrlach and his team, as well as the local police, knew there was a serial killer roaming Glasgow. But what they didn't - yet - know was that it was a ritual with a pentagram at its centre. And the intricate knots that bound each body had a meaning. Chloe's brother Leo, knew knots and was able to give them some answers - and the race was on. But with Teàrlach getting closer to the killer, so too was danger getting closer to them. Would they find the answers, and the killer, before more murders occurred?
Silent Ritual is the 2nd in the Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson series by Andrew James Greig and it was gripping, intense and chilling. The main three characters - Teàrlach, Dee and Chloe - are well crafted and I'm looking forward to reading more about them. I very much enjoyed the first in the series - The Girl in the Loch - and Silent Ritual was just as good. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2025
SILENT RITUAL is #2 in the Teàrlach Paterson series by Andrew James Greig. This one will probably be the most popular of all the Greig novels that I have read (although I think the "The Devil's Cut", the second book in his DI Corstorphine series was his best). But SILENT RITUAL has the action, the mystery, and the complexity that are designed to appeal to a larger audience.
Logan Martin is found holding a bloodied knife over the body of his dead father and confesses to killing him. Teàrlach is brought into the case by Logan's aunt, who doesn't believe that Logan is guilty. Soon Teàrlach and his two associates, Dee (an IT specialist) and Chloe (a logistics ace) are investigating a serial killer who is placing bodies precisely on an occult pentagram drawn on a map of Glasgow. These murders appear to be only tangentially related to the Martin case, based on a similar pentagram that Teàrlach found on the floor of Logan's sister's bedroom.
Also related to the case is a Freemason lodge that has broken away from the main organization but still uses basic Freemason symbolic structures, including the pentagram.
As Teàrlach, Dee, and Chloe follow clues, everything coalesces—a combination of madness and greed that the team untangles.
SILENT RITUAL is more plot-based than the author's previous novels; character development is restricted to describing background information about the investigative team. Each of the three investigators has experienced an unhappy childhood, and scenes chronicling these are woven among the action/mystery scenes. But I never felt that I understood the secondary characters—Logan, his sister, their mother, or the mad serial killer. In previous books, the author made his minor characters as memorable and real as his major ones.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books by this author:
The Bone Clock
The Devil's Cut
The Girl in the Lock (Teàrlach Paterson #1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Logan Martin is found holding a bloodied knife over the body of his dead father and confesses to killing him. Teàrlach is brought into the case by Logan's aunt, who doesn't believe that Logan is guilty. Soon Teàrlach and his two associates, Dee (an IT specialist) and Chloe (a logistics ace) are investigating a serial killer who is placing bodies precisely on an occult pentagram drawn on a map of Glasgow. These murders appear to be only tangentially related to the Martin case, based on a similar pentagram that Teàrlach found on the floor of Logan's sister's bedroom.
Also related to the case is a Freemason lodge that has broken away from the main organization but still uses basic Freemason symbolic structures, including the pentagram.
As Teàrlach, Dee, and Chloe follow clues, everything coalesces—a combination of madness and greed that the team untangles.
SILENT RITUAL is more plot-based than the author's previous novels; character development is restricted to describing background information about the investigative team. Each of the three investigators has experienced an unhappy childhood, and scenes chronicling these are woven among the action/mystery scenes. But I never felt that I understood the secondary characters—Logan, his sister, their mother, or the mad serial killer. In previous books, the author made his minor characters as memorable and real as his major ones.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books by this author:
The Bone Clock
The Devil's Cut
The Girl in the Lock (Teàrlach Paterson #1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
May 12, 2024
Whew! I was able to read 2 books while we drove out of state to attend my son’s graduation. This was a mystery that is long, but thoroughly engaging! It takes place in Glasgow. I love reading investigations in other countries!
Teàrlach is a private investigator, and runs his small office with Dee and Chloe. This is a very dark one- involving some ghastly description of the kidnapping and corpses in the story. There are many characters. It begins with murder conviction Logan’s aunt asking Teàrlach to look into the murder because she does not believe Logan is guilty.
From there the investigation leads into researching the Freemasons, possible witchcraft, drugs, you name it!
It is a slow burn because each aspect of the case is very carefully looked into by the three main characters. I was afraid I would get lost with everyone and everything involved. However, the author does a fantastic job of drawing the reader in, connecting every aspect, providing clues, and an ending after a twisty ride that is very satisfying.
I found out after I finished that this is the second book in the series. You can read as a stand alone, but I am going back to read the first because it might explain a few things about the back stories of the 3 main character!
Highly recommend if you like dark, twisty, intelligent puzzles!!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Teàrlach is a private investigator, and runs his small office with Dee and Chloe. This is a very dark one- involving some ghastly description of the kidnapping and corpses in the story. There are many characters. It begins with murder conviction Logan’s aunt asking Teàrlach to look into the murder because she does not believe Logan is guilty.
From there the investigation leads into researching the Freemasons, possible witchcraft, drugs, you name it!
It is a slow burn because each aspect of the case is very carefully looked into by the three main characters. I was afraid I would get lost with everyone and everything involved. However, the author does a fantastic job of drawing the reader in, connecting every aspect, providing clues, and an ending after a twisty ride that is very satisfying.
I found out after I finished that this is the second book in the series. You can read as a stand alone, but I am going back to read the first because it might explain a few things about the back stories of the 3 main character!
Highly recommend if you like dark, twisty, intelligent puzzles!!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 20, 2024
A serial killer is loose on the streets and there’s a huge secret that this family isn’t telling anyone about. Who’s killing these victims and why?
Twists and turns took me on an enjoyable ride. This is the second book of the series and can be read as a stand-alone. Well written with likable character and I found it suspenseful.
Thanks Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
Twists and turns took me on an enjoyable ride. This is the second book of the series and can be read as a stand-alone. Well written with likable character and I found it suspenseful.
Thanks Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
May 21, 2024
Silent Ritual is the second installment in the Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson series, however it can be read as a standalone. It is a very intense murder mystery, dealing heavily with ritualistic murders.
After being found guilty of the murder of his father, Logan Martin is sentenced to 12 years in jail. His aunt is convinced her nephew did not kill his father and hires PI Teàrlach to find out what really happened to Keith Martin. PI Teàrlach starts investigating with the help of his mates Dee and Chloe and starts making some very shocking discoveries, the first being a pentagram found carved into Jade Martin's floor. Right around the same time, people are being murdered around Glasgow. Clues lead PI Teàrlach to believe they have been ritualistically sacrificed and, more importantly, that they are all possibly connected. What exactly is going on in Glasgow, and who is behind it all?
This book sucked me in immediately. I was so intrigued by the unique murders and occult practices- I haven't really come across them in detective mysteries. There are quite a bit of characters, however the book is paced fast and evenly enough that there is no confusion. This book is also very well written and I look forward to the next book in this series!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Andrew James Greig for this captivating ARC!
After being found guilty of the murder of his father, Logan Martin is sentenced to 12 years in jail. His aunt is convinced her nephew did not kill his father and hires PI Teàrlach to find out what really happened to Keith Martin. PI Teàrlach starts investigating with the help of his mates Dee and Chloe and starts making some very shocking discoveries, the first being a pentagram found carved into Jade Martin's floor. Right around the same time, people are being murdered around Glasgow. Clues lead PI Teàrlach to believe they have been ritualistically sacrificed and, more importantly, that they are all possibly connected. What exactly is going on in Glasgow, and who is behind it all?
This book sucked me in immediately. I was so intrigued by the unique murders and occult practices- I haven't really come across them in detective mysteries. There are quite a bit of characters, however the book is paced fast and evenly enough that there is no confusion. This book is also very well written and I look forward to the next book in this series!
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Andrew James Greig for this captivating ARC!
May 26, 2024
After reading most of this book, I learned it’s the second book in a series but can also be read as a stand alone. I do think if I read the first one it would have explained a little more. I did find at times certain things were confusing to follow. But overall the story and plot was good. I recommend if you’re into suspense and thrillers, but also reading the first in the series too! Unfortunately I just didn’t finish this one. It wasn’t as captivating for me.
June 25, 2024
A dark, occult mystery with an astute private investigator named Tearlach Paterson. I enjoy books where the inciting incident happens early and this one is especially gruesome with a mother discovering her son holding a bloody knife while her husband lies dead on the floor. The suspense builds at a fantastic pace while Tearlach and his team search for a demented, ritualistic killer. Fans of J.D. Barker's 4MK series and Jeff Van Oudenhove's The Alphabet Killer will enjoy this one. I haven't yet read the first book in this series, but I was able to follow this one as a standalone.
October 28, 2025
Not quite as good as the first book but a great read nonetheless. Will look out for book 3.
September 14, 2024
First time reading this author, the book was good. Very tense.
April 20, 2025
In Glasgow wird ein Mann ermordet. Der Täter ist sein 18jähriger Sohn, der die Tat auch gestanden hat. Während für die Polizei der Fall abgeschlossen ist, ist das für die Tante des mutmaßlichen Täters nicht der Fall. Sie bitte den Privatdetektiv Teàrlach Paterson, sich den Fall erneut anzusehen, um die Unschuld ihres Neffen zu beweisen.
Als Teàrlach die Wohnung besucht, in der sich der Mord abspielte, fallen ihm sofort einige Ungereimtheiten auf. Weitere Nachforschungen ergeben, dass sich im Nachbarhaus vor nur kurz vor dem Mord ein verdächtiger Todesfall ereignet hat, bei dem es Verbindungen zum aktuellen Fall gibt. Währenddessen verschwinden in Glasgow Menschen und Teàrlach und seine Mitarbeiterinnen finden Spuren, die nicht nur auf die beiden Morde, sondern auf ein altes, längst vergessenes Wissen hindeuten. Das bedeutet aber auch, dass der Täter noch nicht am Ende seines Plans ist.
Der Täter hat mich in ein bisschen in die Karten schauen lassen, deshalb war ich immer einen kleinen Schritt weiter als Teàrlach und kannte das nächste Opfer schon vorher. Das hat mir nichts von der Spannung genommen, weil ich nur wusste, was passieren würde, aber nicht, warum oder wer genau der Täter war. Sicher war nur, dass er sich auf ein altes Ritual bezieht. Er muss raffiniert sein, denn die Personen wurden vor den Augen der Öffentlichkeit entführt.
Es ist Katz-und-Mausspiel, das dadurch an Brisanz gewinnt, dass plötzlich die Schwester des Täters verschwindet. Dadurch kommt eine Gruppe der Freimaurer ins Spiel, in deren Kirche das verschwundene Mädchen gearbeitet hat. Wie hängt das alles zusammen?
Der Krimi ist spannend und flüssig erzählt und kommt trotz des Bezugs auf das alte Ritual ohne unnötige Grausamkeit aus. Der Autor hat einige Spuren gelegt, die ich aber erst im Rückblick gesehen habe. Am Ende ist die Spannung ein bisschen abgefallen, aber insgesamt war es ein guter Krimi.
Als Teàrlach die Wohnung besucht, in der sich der Mord abspielte, fallen ihm sofort einige Ungereimtheiten auf. Weitere Nachforschungen ergeben, dass sich im Nachbarhaus vor nur kurz vor dem Mord ein verdächtiger Todesfall ereignet hat, bei dem es Verbindungen zum aktuellen Fall gibt. Währenddessen verschwinden in Glasgow Menschen und Teàrlach und seine Mitarbeiterinnen finden Spuren, die nicht nur auf die beiden Morde, sondern auf ein altes, längst vergessenes Wissen hindeuten. Das bedeutet aber auch, dass der Täter noch nicht am Ende seines Plans ist.
Der Täter hat mich in ein bisschen in die Karten schauen lassen, deshalb war ich immer einen kleinen Schritt weiter als Teàrlach und kannte das nächste Opfer schon vorher. Das hat mir nichts von der Spannung genommen, weil ich nur wusste, was passieren würde, aber nicht, warum oder wer genau der Täter war. Sicher war nur, dass er sich auf ein altes Ritual bezieht. Er muss raffiniert sein, denn die Personen wurden vor den Augen der Öffentlichkeit entführt.
Es ist Katz-und-Mausspiel, das dadurch an Brisanz gewinnt, dass plötzlich die Schwester des Täters verschwindet. Dadurch kommt eine Gruppe der Freimaurer ins Spiel, in deren Kirche das verschwundene Mädchen gearbeitet hat. Wie hängt das alles zusammen?
Der Krimi ist spannend und flüssig erzählt und kommt trotz des Bezugs auf das alte Ritual ohne unnötige Grausamkeit aus. Der Autor hat einige Spuren gelegt, die ich aber erst im Rückblick gesehen habe. Am Ende ist die Spannung ein bisschen abgefallen, aber insgesamt war es ein guter Krimi.
May 29, 2024
Silent Ritual
By: Andrew James Greig
3 Stars
When bodies begin popping up around Glasgow, Detective Paterson and his team are on the case. Rituals, bodies, missing people. They come face to face with horrors that all begin to link together as a mass of ritualistic kills. These kills are not lone kills. Together, they have to find a serial killer.
This was the second in the series. I did not have the chance to read the first one, but I really enjoyed the story and the characters. I never felt like I missed anything major, so I read this as a stand-alone.
This story was well written. Tearlach, Dee, and Chloe make an awesome crime fighting team. The storyline was one that I really enjoyed as I, myself, identify as pagan. It was well done and action-packed. Around every corner was another clue or body. It was thrilling right to the end. Usually, I can figure it out. The "who" of who done it, but not this time. I kept guessing and wanting more until the last page.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
By: Andrew James Greig
3 Stars
When bodies begin popping up around Glasgow, Detective Paterson and his team are on the case. Rituals, bodies, missing people. They come face to face with horrors that all begin to link together as a mass of ritualistic kills. These kills are not lone kills. Together, they have to find a serial killer.
This was the second in the series. I did not have the chance to read the first one, but I really enjoyed the story and the characters. I never felt like I missed anything major, so I read this as a stand-alone.
This story was well written. Tearlach, Dee, and Chloe make an awesome crime fighting team. The storyline was one that I really enjoyed as I, myself, identify as pagan. It was well done and action-packed. Around every corner was another clue or body. It was thrilling right to the end. Usually, I can figure it out. The "who" of who done it, but not this time. I kept guessing and wanting more until the last page.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
June 2, 2024
Perverted paganism and witchcraft hallmarked by ritualistic murders draw the PI team into a first, then similar occurrences. Fear is the driving force behind police, politic, and the press, but it's the characters that drive the story. Well done.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Storm Publishing via NetGalley.
May 15, 2024
I am not a true crime reader generally, and SILENT RITUAL proved too much for me. I'm certain fans of the genre will find it incredibly gripping, and fly right through it.
June 3, 2024
Andrew James Greig’s Silent Ritual is a riveting thriller that plunges readers into a dark and mysterious investigation rooted in Glasgow’s occult history. The story begins with a harrowing scene: a mother witnesses her son, Logan Martin, holding a bloodied knife over his dead father. This shocking moment sets the stage for an intricate and chilling narrative.
Logan is quickly convicted of the murder, but his aunt believes in his innocence and hires private investigator Teàrlach Paterson to uncover the truth. From the moment Teàrlach steps into the Martin family home, it is clear that this is no ordinary case. The discovery of a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom and a similar symbol in a journal found at the home of their deceased elderly neighbors suggest a connection to sinister ritualistic practices.
Greig masterfully blends elements of crime investigation with the eerie allure of the occult. The plot thickens as Teàrlach uncovers a series of ritualistic murders, with victims arranged on a pentagram and bound in intricate knots. These gruesome details, combined with the historical context of Glasgow’s pagan past, add depth and authenticity to the narrative, keeping readers engrossed.
Teàrlach Paterson is a compelling protagonist. His determination to uncover the truth and protect the innocent drives the story forward. His character is well-rounded, exhibiting both professional acumen and personal stakes that make his journey relatable and engaging. As he delves deeper into the investigation, the tension rises, particularly when two young women go missing and the threat becomes personal.
The supporting characters, including Teàrlach’s investigative team, add richness to the narrative. Their interactions and individual contributions enhance the story, creating a dynamic ensemble cast. The familial aspect, particularly the bond between Logan and his aunt, adds an emotional layer to the investigation, highlighting the personal cost of seeking justice.
One of the novel’s strengths is its atmospheric setting. Greig paints a vivid picture of Glasgow, its streets shrouded in mystery and history. The city’s dark corners and ancient secrets become almost a character in their own right, providing a haunting backdrop to the unfolding drama.
The theme of ritualistic murder, intertwined with ancient pagan practices, is handled with finesse. Greig provides just enough historical detail to ground the story in reality without overwhelming the reader. The use of symbols, maps, and rituals creates a sense of authenticity and intrigue that propels the narrative.
The pacing of Silent Ritual is expertly managed. Each chapter ends with a compelling hook, driving the reader to continue. Greig’s writing style is clear and evocative, capturing the suspense and urgency of the investigation. The plot twists and turns, with each revelation adding to the complexity of the case and the danger faced by Teàrlach and his team.
Silent Ritual is more than just a thriller; it is a deep dive into the human psyche and the lengths to which people will go to uncover the truth. The exploration of good versus evil, innocence versus guilt, and the impact of ancient beliefs on modern lives provides a thought-provoking undercurrent to the suspenseful plot.
IAndrew James Greig’s Silent Ritual is a standout thriller that combines a gripping investigation with the dark allure of the occult. The well-crafted plot, rich character development, and atmospheric setting make it a must-read for fans of the genre. Greig’s ability to weave historical elements into a contemporary narrative ensures that readers are both entertained and haunted by the story long after they turn the final page.
Logan is quickly convicted of the murder, but his aunt believes in his innocence and hires private investigator Teàrlach Paterson to uncover the truth. From the moment Teàrlach steps into the Martin family home, it is clear that this is no ordinary case. The discovery of a pentagram etched under the carpet in Logan's sister’s bedroom and a similar symbol in a journal found at the home of their deceased elderly neighbors suggest a connection to sinister ritualistic practices.
Greig masterfully blends elements of crime investigation with the eerie allure of the occult. The plot thickens as Teàrlach uncovers a series of ritualistic murders, with victims arranged on a pentagram and bound in intricate knots. These gruesome details, combined with the historical context of Glasgow’s pagan past, add depth and authenticity to the narrative, keeping readers engrossed.
Teàrlach Paterson is a compelling protagonist. His determination to uncover the truth and protect the innocent drives the story forward. His character is well-rounded, exhibiting both professional acumen and personal stakes that make his journey relatable and engaging. As he delves deeper into the investigation, the tension rises, particularly when two young women go missing and the threat becomes personal.
The supporting characters, including Teàrlach’s investigative team, add richness to the narrative. Their interactions and individual contributions enhance the story, creating a dynamic ensemble cast. The familial aspect, particularly the bond between Logan and his aunt, adds an emotional layer to the investigation, highlighting the personal cost of seeking justice.
One of the novel’s strengths is its atmospheric setting. Greig paints a vivid picture of Glasgow, its streets shrouded in mystery and history. The city’s dark corners and ancient secrets become almost a character in their own right, providing a haunting backdrop to the unfolding drama.
The theme of ritualistic murder, intertwined with ancient pagan practices, is handled with finesse. Greig provides just enough historical detail to ground the story in reality without overwhelming the reader. The use of symbols, maps, and rituals creates a sense of authenticity and intrigue that propels the narrative.
The pacing of Silent Ritual is expertly managed. Each chapter ends with a compelling hook, driving the reader to continue. Greig’s writing style is clear and evocative, capturing the suspense and urgency of the investigation. The plot twists and turns, with each revelation adding to the complexity of the case and the danger faced by Teàrlach and his team.
Silent Ritual is more than just a thriller; it is a deep dive into the human psyche and the lengths to which people will go to uncover the truth. The exploration of good versus evil, innocence versus guilt, and the impact of ancient beliefs on modern lives provides a thought-provoking undercurrent to the suspenseful plot.
IAndrew James Greig’s Silent Ritual is a standout thriller that combines a gripping investigation with the dark allure of the occult. The well-crafted plot, rich character development, and atmospheric setting make it a must-read for fans of the genre. Greig’s ability to weave historical elements into a contemporary narrative ensures that readers are both entertained and haunted by the story long after they turn the final page.
June 15, 2024
This is the 2nd in Andrew James Greig's Glasgow based crime series featuring PI Tearlach Paterson, a man with a traumatic history of grief and loss, and a dying father he is far from keen to visit. This is my first taste of this series, and it worked fine as there was more than sufficient information and details to become immersed in the disturbing and intense storyline. Lauren Martin returns home to the horrifying sight of her dead husband, Keith, and her teenage son, Logan, with a bloodied knife in his hands, and her daughter, Jade, upstairs with headphones on, apparently missing all the macabre horror downstairs. Logan is now serving a prison sentence at Barlinnie.
Despite it seemingly being an open and shut case, Logan's Aunt Nicole does not believe in his guilt, he is a gentle and considerate boy with no violent or brutal tendencies. Paterson is reluctant to take her on as client, he cannot see what he can do for her, but eventually agrees initially to do a week's work to see if his agency can turn up anything, although Logan refuses to provide any leads that could exonerate him. Paterson is aided by the differing skills and abilities of his staff, Chloe, the office manager, and the hacking skills of Dee Fairlie prove to be invaluable. This is a chilling and frightening narrative that takes in pentagrams, the suspicious deaths of neighbours, freemasons, drugs, the terror of ritualised murders, corrupt police, and dangers that come far too close to home.
The author spins a complex yarn that takes in myths, legends and the delusional, the case is to test the limits of Paterson and his staff, on a personal level there are growing feelings between him and Dee, and Chloe's brother has useful information on the subject of knots. It is the characters that captured my interest in this Glasgow series, primarily the poetry loving Paterson suffering such unbearable losses, yet managing to forge a successful career as a PI, but I was captivated by Dee, Chloe and Jade too. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
Despite it seemingly being an open and shut case, Logan's Aunt Nicole does not believe in his guilt, he is a gentle and considerate boy with no violent or brutal tendencies. Paterson is reluctant to take her on as client, he cannot see what he can do for her, but eventually agrees initially to do a week's work to see if his agency can turn up anything, although Logan refuses to provide any leads that could exonerate him. Paterson is aided by the differing skills and abilities of his staff, Chloe, the office manager, and the hacking skills of Dee Fairlie prove to be invaluable. This is a chilling and frightening narrative that takes in pentagrams, the suspicious deaths of neighbours, freemasons, drugs, the terror of ritualised murders, corrupt police, and dangers that come far too close to home.
The author spins a complex yarn that takes in myths, legends and the delusional, the case is to test the limits of Paterson and his staff, on a personal level there are growing feelings between him and Dee, and Chloe's brother has useful information on the subject of knots. It is the characters that captured my interest in this Glasgow series, primarily the poetry loving Paterson suffering such unbearable losses, yet managing to forge a successful career as a PI, but I was captivated by Dee, Chloe and Jade too. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
June 24, 2024
This is the second book in this series and although I hadn't read the first, I found it easy to engage with the characters.
The neighbours on Seaview Drive, Glasgow called the police, Lauren Martin's screams alerted them.
Lauren Martin had returned from grocery shopping to find her teenage son, Logan, covered in blood, knife in his hand, looking down on the body of his brutally mutilated father, Keith, his sister Jade,unaware of the horror was up in her bedroom listening to music.
This was an open and shut case, Logan confessed to the murder of his father and was now incarcerated in Barlinnie jail.
Keith's sister Nichole was the only one who believed that her gentle nephew couldn't possibly have killed his father, she wanted answers and to get them she hired PI Tearlach Paterson and his team Dee and Chloe.
At first Tearlach thought that Nichole was wasting her money but the more digging his team did the more his opinion changed and his gut feeling took over.
Jade went missing, a desperate Lauren turned to Tearlach, a pentagon found under the carpet in Jade's room, the ritualistic murder of their next door neighbours, the escalating body count put fear into the citizens of Glasgow, a serial killer was on the loose, a serial killer with a mission.
As this disturbing story unfolds it encompasses the satanism, the Freemasons, ritual sacrifice. What is the significance of the knots used to tie the victims ? what was the significance of the location of the bodies, did they need to look at the pentagon for answers.
This is a well written book, it has disturbing elements, danger and suspense, the author's descriptive powers are great and I look forward to the next book in the series and the growing attraction between Tearlach and Dee.
Thank you Storm Publishing and Net Gallery for this ARC, my review is voluntary.
The neighbours on Seaview Drive, Glasgow called the police, Lauren Martin's screams alerted them.
Lauren Martin had returned from grocery shopping to find her teenage son, Logan, covered in blood, knife in his hand, looking down on the body of his brutally mutilated father, Keith, his sister Jade,unaware of the horror was up in her bedroom listening to music.
This was an open and shut case, Logan confessed to the murder of his father and was now incarcerated in Barlinnie jail.
Keith's sister Nichole was the only one who believed that her gentle nephew couldn't possibly have killed his father, she wanted answers and to get them she hired PI Tearlach Paterson and his team Dee and Chloe.
At first Tearlach thought that Nichole was wasting her money but the more digging his team did the more his opinion changed and his gut feeling took over.
Jade went missing, a desperate Lauren turned to Tearlach, a pentagon found under the carpet in Jade's room, the ritualistic murder of their next door neighbours, the escalating body count put fear into the citizens of Glasgow, a serial killer was on the loose, a serial killer with a mission.
As this disturbing story unfolds it encompasses the satanism, the Freemasons, ritual sacrifice. What is the significance of the knots used to tie the victims ? what was the significance of the location of the bodies, did they need to look at the pentagon for answers.
This is a well written book, it has disturbing elements, danger and suspense, the author's descriptive powers are great and I look forward to the next book in the series and the growing attraction between Tearlach and Dee.
Thank you Storm Publishing and Net Gallery for this ARC, my review is voluntary.
May 29, 2024
Silent Ritual by Andrew James Greig is a thought-provoking novel that initially takes a bit of time to gain momentum but gradually captures the reader's interest as the story progresses.
One notable aspect of the book is its slow start. While some readers might find this a bit challenging initially, it is important to note that this deliberate pacing sets the stage for the subsequent events and character development. As the story unfolds, the author skillfully introduces intriguing elements that gradually draw the reader in, making the wait worthwhile.
Once the story picks up pace a few chapters in, Silent Ritual becomes a compelling and engaging read. The narrative gains momentum, and the plot becomes more captivating, offering twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Greig's ability to create suspense and maintain a sense of intrigue throughout the book is commendable.
The characters in Silent Ritual are well-crafted and multi-dimensional. They evolve and reveal their complexities as the story progresses, allowing readers to develop a deeper connection with them. The author's attention to detail in character development adds depth to the overall reading experience.
Furthermore, Greig's writing style is descriptive and immersive, painting vivid imagery that brings the setting to life. The atmospheric descriptions enhance the overall reading experience, making it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and feel a part of the story.
In conclusion, Silent Ritual may have a slow start, but it quickly gains momentum and becomes an intriguing and captivating read. Andrew James Greig's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and immersive writing style make this book a compelling choice for readers seeking an engaging fiction novel.
One notable aspect of the book is its slow start. While some readers might find this a bit challenging initially, it is important to note that this deliberate pacing sets the stage for the subsequent events and character development. As the story unfolds, the author skillfully introduces intriguing elements that gradually draw the reader in, making the wait worthwhile.
Once the story picks up pace a few chapters in, Silent Ritual becomes a compelling and engaging read. The narrative gains momentum, and the plot becomes more captivating, offering twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Greig's ability to create suspense and maintain a sense of intrigue throughout the book is commendable.
The characters in Silent Ritual are well-crafted and multi-dimensional. They evolve and reveal their complexities as the story progresses, allowing readers to develop a deeper connection with them. The author's attention to detail in character development adds depth to the overall reading experience.
Furthermore, Greig's writing style is descriptive and immersive, painting vivid imagery that brings the setting to life. The atmospheric descriptions enhance the overall reading experience, making it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and feel a part of the story.
In conclusion, Silent Ritual may have a slow start, but it quickly gains momentum and becomes an intriguing and captivating read. Andrew James Greig's skillful storytelling, well-developed characters, and immersive writing style make this book a compelling choice for readers seeking an engaging fiction novel.
May 10, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Andrew James Greig for allowing me to read the ARC of "Silent Ritual" in exchange for an honest review.
It seems to be a closed case, a father murdered, a son confessed and found guilty. Yet, the sister of the murdered man is not convince and is adamant in her task to proof her nephews innocent. In her attempt, she hires Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson and his team to dig deeper into the case of her brother's death and the family Martin.
Relucantly agreeing, Teàrlach and his team seem to be walking into one dead end after another, yet more and more do they too begin to question the son's guilt.
At the same time, the city of Glasgow is terrorised by brutal murders. Quickly, Paterson and his team find a connection between them, all due a pentagram they find in Logan Martins sisters room and in the house of the deceased neighbours.
Ritualistic murders, a innocent prisoner ... and atop of that, two young women go missing, one of them being the sister of Logan, the boy who allegedly murdered his father so brutally.
Time is playing against them.
The book is incredibly fast paced, which is something I did enjoy a lot, there was not one single moment to catch your breath, always something happening to twist your thoughts into another direction just when you thought you found the right one. The omniosity of the ritual murders did add another splash of mystery and darkness to the overall already intriguing case.
I LOVED the way you had glimpses into different POV's all around the story, without a doubt think that this kind of writing needs to be practised more often.
It seems to be a closed case, a father murdered, a son confessed and found guilty. Yet, the sister of the murdered man is not convince and is adamant in her task to proof her nephews innocent. In her attempt, she hires Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson and his team to dig deeper into the case of her brother's death and the family Martin.
Relucantly agreeing, Teàrlach and his team seem to be walking into one dead end after another, yet more and more do they too begin to question the son's guilt.
At the same time, the city of Glasgow is terrorised by brutal murders. Quickly, Paterson and his team find a connection between them, all due a pentagram they find in Logan Martins sisters room and in the house of the deceased neighbours.
Ritualistic murders, a innocent prisoner ... and atop of that, two young women go missing, one of them being the sister of Logan, the boy who allegedly murdered his father so brutally.
Time is playing against them.
The book is incredibly fast paced, which is something I did enjoy a lot, there was not one single moment to catch your breath, always something happening to twist your thoughts into another direction just when you thought you found the right one. The omniosity of the ritual murders did add another splash of mystery and darkness to the overall already intriguing case.
I LOVED the way you had glimpses into different POV's all around the story, without a doubt think that this kind of writing needs to be practised more often.
June 19, 2024
**Silent Ritual** is the second book in the Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson series, but you can dive in without having read the first. This gripping murder mystery explores the eerie world of ritualistic killings.
An ear-shattering scream breaks the quiet of a Glasgow street as a mother stands frozen in her doorway, groceries scattered at her feet. Her son clutches a bloodied knife while his father lies dead before him. Logan Martin is quickly imprisoned for the murder, but his aunt believes he's innocent and hires PI Teàrlach Paterson to find the truth.
At the Martin home, Teàrlach discovers a pentagram under the carpet in Logan's sister’s room and a journal with the same symbol in the home of their murdered elderly neighbors. As ritualistic murders spread across the city, with bodies arranged on an occult pentagram, Teàrlach and his team uncover an ancient map linked to the killings.
When two young women go missing, Teàrlach fears the worst. He's closing in on a killer with roots in Glasgow’s pagan past. Can he stop the murderer before another ritual claims a life, perhaps even one of his own team?
This book grabbed me from the start with its unique blend of murder and the occult—something you don’t often see in detective stories. Even with a large cast of characters, the story’s fast pace and clear writing kept everything engaging. It’s a well-written, compelling read, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing.
An ear-shattering scream breaks the quiet of a Glasgow street as a mother stands frozen in her doorway, groceries scattered at her feet. Her son clutches a bloodied knife while his father lies dead before him. Logan Martin is quickly imprisoned for the murder, but his aunt believes he's innocent and hires PI Teàrlach Paterson to find the truth.
At the Martin home, Teàrlach discovers a pentagram under the carpet in Logan's sister’s room and a journal with the same symbol in the home of their murdered elderly neighbors. As ritualistic murders spread across the city, with bodies arranged on an occult pentagram, Teàrlach and his team uncover an ancient map linked to the killings.
When two young women go missing, Teàrlach fears the worst. He's closing in on a killer with roots in Glasgow’s pagan past. Can he stop the murderer before another ritual claims a life, perhaps even one of his own team?
This book grabbed me from the start with its unique blend of murder and the occult—something you don’t often see in detective stories. Even with a large cast of characters, the story’s fast pace and clear writing kept everything engaging. It’s a well-written, compelling read, and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing.
January 10, 2025
I really enjoyed the first book featuring private investigator Teàrlach Paterson, so deciding to read the second one, Silent Ritual, was a no-brainer. This time the action mostly takes place in and around Glasgow, where Lauren Martin comes home to the horrifying sight of her son, Logan, standing over his father’s body holding a blood-stained knife. As he confesses to the crime, it seems to be cut and dried, but his father’s sister persuades Teàrlach to investigate as she does not believe him capable of such behaviour.
A series of ritualistic murders follow, and the police are getting nowhere finding such a forensically aware killer. An ancient map seems to be the inspiration, but the motivation is unclear. Their investigation uncovers police corruption, a drug manufacturing operation and links to the freemasons. This is a complicated investigation that requires all the skills that Teàrlach and his team (Dee and Chloe) possess. Links to paganism, the occult and witchcraft are all revealed as the investigation progresses.
The descriptive writing brings the setting to life – anyone who knows Glasgow will recognise the landmarks – and the characters are well drawn and believable. Although a criminal investigation is at the heart of Silent Ritual, this is an unusual crime novel and I look forward to reading more stories about Teàrlach Paterson and his team of investigators. Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for a digital ARC to review.
A series of ritualistic murders follow, and the police are getting nowhere finding such a forensically aware killer. An ancient map seems to be the inspiration, but the motivation is unclear. Their investigation uncovers police corruption, a drug manufacturing operation and links to the freemasons. This is a complicated investigation that requires all the skills that Teàrlach and his team (Dee and Chloe) possess. Links to paganism, the occult and witchcraft are all revealed as the investigation progresses.
The descriptive writing brings the setting to life – anyone who knows Glasgow will recognise the landmarks – and the characters are well drawn and believable. Although a criminal investigation is at the heart of Silent Ritual, this is an unusual crime novel and I look forward to reading more stories about Teàrlach Paterson and his team of investigators. Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for a digital ARC to review.
October 1, 2026
Most stories set in Scotland, whether it be a book, TV show, or movie, emphasize the romanticism of mist, mountains, lochs, small villages, narrow twisty roads, hillsides where sheep and Highland cattle meander, etc. But Scotland is home to several large cities as well - and while they all are home to some beautiful, centuries-old architecture, they are at the same time densely populated modern urban areas with the same problems all large cities harbor - murders, robberies, drugs, organized crime, etc.
This story is set in Glasgow in the midst of an unusually hot summer. The atmosphere from the start is stifling, sultry, uncomfortable. And yet the team of PI Tearlach Paterson, professtional hacker Dee, and admin assistant Chloe are at home in the miasma of heat and noise, taking on investigating the case of a young murderer, at the behest of his aunt who believes his confession that he killed his father was false. And then the bodies start showing up throughout the city, murdered and displayed in odd manners. Paterson's team sorts through clues related to paganism, Freemasonry, and drugs, as they link their investigations of the imprisoned young man, and two missing young women to the spate of serial killings.
This story is set in Glasgow in the midst of an unusually hot summer. The atmosphere from the start is stifling, sultry, uncomfortable. And yet the team of PI Tearlach Paterson, professtional hacker Dee, and admin assistant Chloe are at home in the miasma of heat and noise, taking on investigating the case of a young murderer, at the behest of his aunt who believes his confession that he killed his father was false. And then the bodies start showing up throughout the city, murdered and displayed in odd manners. Paterson's team sorts through clues related to paganism, Freemasonry, and drugs, as they link their investigations of the imprisoned young man, and two missing young women to the spate of serial killings.
June 21, 2024
A very well crafted murder mystery. Teàrlach Paterson is a private detective. In the opening, a lady called Nicole Martin demands he find out who killed her brother Keith and why he was killed. The problem is that Logan, Keith's son, has already confessed to the crime, been tried, found guilty and imprisoned. Teàrlach decides to have a look at the case anyway. He soon discovers something odd about the Martins' neighbours. Then a serial killer starts leaving bodies all over Glasgow. Teárlach is convinced these things are all connected but how they're connected is the question. Teàrlach and his assisstants Chloe and Dee are great characters. They all have past issues but it's handled well in the story and it's not discussed on every other page, nor does it affect how they do their jobs. I really enjoyed the story. Easy to read with some interesting twists. I was unaware that this was the second book in the series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. However, I'm going to go find book 1!
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Andrew James Greig for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Andrew James Greig for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2024
I've never read anything by Andrew James Greig and when I got this book to read and review I found out it was the 2nd in the series. I had to go back and read the first book before I read this one, I have to read series in order. While they are both completely separate stories, there are some things from the first book that carryover to the second - explained well enough that you wouldn't have to read the first book to read this one.
I love the characters in the book, Dee is a smart mouth, brillant hacker that can find anything online, Chloe is a little soft spoken and not always sure of herself due to her past and Teàrlach just wants to take care of everybody - clients and employees alike. This is a great mystery that from the beginning doesn't seem like there is a mystery. I had some of it figured out about halfway through, but there were quite a few things that came out of left field that I had no clue were coming! Great summer read!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
I love the characters in the book, Dee is a smart mouth, brillant hacker that can find anything online, Chloe is a little soft spoken and not always sure of herself due to her past and Teàrlach just wants to take care of everybody - clients and employees alike. This is a great mystery that from the beginning doesn't seem like there is a mystery. I had some of it figured out about halfway through, but there were quite a few things that came out of left field that I had no clue were coming! Great summer read!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.
May 30, 2024
Investigation great, murder motive really a dilly🙄
I think the author has created a great investigative team in Tearlach, Dee and Chloe. Here they make the most of their individual talents in a very eerie Glasgow-set murder case involving human sacrifice, pentagrams and odd knots with pagan significance. It's full of suspense, the climax is action-packed, and I liked that the focus stays on finding the murderer and possibly exonerating a young man in prison for brutally stabbing his own father, with just minor forays into the personal life of the detectives.
The case is plenty complex and unpredictable, but I found the finally-revealed motive for the bulk of the murders was just too out there and unrealistic. I also like to know a bit more about the victims; some of them barely rate a brief appearance.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I think the author has created a great investigative team in Tearlach, Dee and Chloe. Here they make the most of their individual talents in a very eerie Glasgow-set murder case involving human sacrifice, pentagrams and odd knots with pagan significance. It's full of suspense, the climax is action-packed, and I liked that the focus stays on finding the murderer and possibly exonerating a young man in prison for brutally stabbing his own father, with just minor forays into the personal life of the detectives.
The case is plenty complex and unpredictable, but I found the finally-revealed motive for the bulk of the murders was just too out there and unrealistic. I also like to know a bit more about the victims; some of them barely rate a brief appearance.
Thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
June 28, 2024
PI Teàrlach Paterson returns with his team, Dee and Chloe. They are asked to look into a recent murder, where a young man, Logan Martin was found with a bloody knife and his father, Kevin, dead. The victim had been stabbed in a frenzy and his son admits to the murder. The victim’s sister is convinced that her nephew did not commit the crime and that he is covering for his mother and sister. Thinking they are onto a lost cause Paterson agrees to take on the case for one week, convinced that the police have the right man in Barlinnie prison. However, delving deeper with the skill of Dee’s hacking and Chloe’s determination, the team discover a trail of connected murders, with a pentagram holding the clues.
The second book in this series and the intrigue and twists continue. Clever narrative (though the explanation of various knots was lost on me!), great writing and a plot with fascinating characters.
Very enjoyable, thoroughly recommend.
The second book in this series and the intrigue and twists continue. Clever narrative (though the explanation of various knots was lost on me!), great writing and a plot with fascinating characters.
Very enjoyable, thoroughly recommend.
May 27, 2024
I took a risk reading the second book in a detective series but I was rewarded with a gripping tale complete with twists and turns and a pinch of relationship drama. Having not read the first book, I was still able to follow the ongoing story as well as piece together what had happened in the lead up regarding the group of detectives and their backgrounds. I particularly liked the author's use of descriptions which were not too wordy yet showed accurate observations of people's mannerisms and behaviours. The suspense ramped up towards the end, with the action becoming more edge of your seat. I will be seeking out book 1 as I enjoyed the style of writing and am eager to read more about the characters.
I received this arc from netgalley and Storm Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
I received this arc from netgalley and Storm Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2024
Silent Ritual is the second in the Private Investigator Teàrlach Paterson series. The story begins when Lauren Martin arrives home to see her 17 year old son, Logan, holding a knife and claims to have killed his father. Teàrlach, Dee and Chloe are asked to conduct a private investigation by Nicole Martin, Logan's Aunt, to determine the reason behind the incident. The PI is led down a path of the Freemasons, Paganism and witchcraft before stumbling onto finding out secrets about certain people within the plot.
How is everything linked? All of these questions will be answered by the time you reached the chilling conclusion! This was well written and very descriptive and you can see the research that has gone into writing this book. I love the characters and how they interact with other. I highly recommend this book.
How is everything linked? All of these questions will be answered by the time you reached the chilling conclusion! This was well written and very descriptive and you can see the research that has gone into writing this book. I love the characters and how they interact with other. I highly recommend this book.
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