BLOOD ORANGE

Tyler and Mills #6

by Mark L. Fowler

When a grocer is found dead in his corner shop, it seems clear that he was killed by the same man apprehended for other robberies in the area. But DCI Tyler is not convinced that the case is that simple.

The pressures of inner-city policing are relentless, and Tyler is only adding to his reputation as a maverick and a liability by keeping on with the investigation, despite repeated warnings from above. But the detective, true to form, is like a dog with a bone, regardless of the consequences.

When complaints about his methods start to pour in, Tyler becomes more convinced that he is onto something. Putting his career, his friendship with colleague Danny Mills, and even his own well being in jeopardy, the DCI remains as single-minded as ever in his quest for truth and justice.


'Another Fowler classic! Over the years I’ve grown to love the partnership of Tyler and Mills, the camaraderie, the conversations that ultimately lead to a spot of case solving, and this sixth book in the series was no exception. It began with the death of a shopkeeper, and a nasty shopkeeper as it turned out. There were plenty of suspects and Fowler cleverly weaves them together so that the reader (me!) doesn’t know who or what to believe. I thoroughly enjoyed it, look forward to the next, and it’s a massive five stars from me.' - Anita Waller, bestselling crime author.

'Mark is very clever at keeping you guessing, almost to the very last page.' - LM.

'Terrific as usual!' - Mary R.

'Fast paced and gripping. The dynamic between Tyler and Mills is riveting and their contrasting backstories only adds to the intrigue. The case seems to be wrapped up early on, but Tyler suspects otherwise, against his boss’ wishes. There is a real sense of urgency to the investigation, making for a tense read from start to finish.' - Amazon Customer.

'Latest book of Mark L Fowler in the Tyler and Mills series and it didn't disappoint! Only discovered this author a couple of years ago and now playing catch-up on all his books. Treat yourself to the others in the series and they won't disappoint.' - Liz Jackson.

'The story is told with much wit and warmth and featuring a great murder mystery, makes for a very enjoyable read to keep the reader guessing to the end!' - Alyson R.

'This is the first book I’ve read in the Tyler and Mills series but it didn’t matter that I hadn’t read any of the first 5 (I will have to read them all now). This is a real page turner trying to work out who did commit the murder. I loved the relationship between Tyler and Mills who are very much polar opposites but who work so well together. A definite 5/5 for me and I would highly recommend it.' - Dawn Hooke.

'Great addition to a fine series.' - Julian Middleton.

'I always enjoy a Tyler and Mills case. They keep you guessing til the end and blood orange was no different. I kept changing my mind who the murderer was and the ending was surprising. I like both characters, their interaction are real and down to earth. Look forward to their next adventure.' - Jeanette Handley.

'Authentic and with great characters too. Such a great read and one which has made me go and read the first book since I read this. Mark Fowler has written a book that feels authentic and he hasn't made it an easy puzzle to solve for the reader as well as Tyler and Mills. I love a plot that has you gripped as I was with this as well as twists so cleverly placed and turns that surprised me as I read!' - Beyond the Books.

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 11, 2024

About the author

Mark writes in a number of genres, including detective crime fiction, psychological thrillers, and Gothic fantasy.

He is the author of the popular Tyler & Mills detective crime series set in Staffordshire in the noughties. RED IS THE COLOUR was shortlisted for the 2018 Arnold Bennett Prize and begins with the grim discovery of a schoolboy who disappeared thirty years earlier. BLUE MURDER involves a missing singer and a murdered guitarist, elevating an obscure band to sudden fame and fortune. THE DEVIL WORE BLACK unveils the mystery of a crucified priest. THE SMELL OF COPPER, finds Tyler out on a limb as the detectives uncover police corruption. SCARLET RIBBONS investigates the brutal murder of a sex worker. The latest book in the series, BLOOD ORANGE, concerns the death of a local greengrocer. All the books can be read as standalone crime novels.

Other detective mysteries include THE BATHROOM MURDERS. A series of women are found hacked to death while taking a shower. This is the first in a new series set in Manchester, featuring female detective Charlie Reed and her sidekick Paul Rigsby.

TWIST has the eponymous private investigator returning, against his better judgement, to the city of nightmares to look into the strange case of a dead philosophy student.

THE MAN UPSTAIRS introduces hard boiled Frank Miller, discovering he’s a fictional detective and that his author is plotting to kill him. This is the first in a series of crime fantasy novels, and the second book in the series has now been published: THE POISONED EYE OF A LOVING GOD,

Mark also writes psychological thrillers. SILVER finds journalist and crime writer Nick Slater obsessed with an unpublished manuscript that a best-selling author was working on when she was murdered, and which her family refuse to publish.

SEXTET explores the twisted rivalry between twin sisters, the weird games they played as children, and the rising murder rate in a small English town.

COFFIN MAKER is a Gothic tale. Death is sent two apprentices amid warnings from an out-of-favour priest that the devil has arrived on Earth.

PAINTED FIRE finds a writer travelling to America’s West Coast in a desperate bid to find a cure for a baffling illness afflicting his wife. An anonymous benefactor has offered to help, but at what price?

Reviews

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was my first time reading anything from this series, so I couldn't be sure I would really enjoy it. Especially as I jumped in at book 6. All I can say is I loved it!
The two coppers, DCI Jim Tyler and DS Danny Mills, have the best banter. This always adds to these types of books. It tends to lighten the read, and I always appreciate that.
The case they find themselves on leads to friction when Tyler feels his superiors are coming to conclusions he doesn't agree with. He has a gut feeling it's not a burglary but something else. Will he find the loose ends he needs to prove his point?
It was such a great read and one that has made me go and read the first book since I read this. Mark Fowler has written a book that feels authentic, and he hasn't made it an easy puzzle to solve for the reader as well as Tyler and Mills.
I love a plot that has you gripped as I was with this as well as twists so cleverly placed and turns that surprised me as I read!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy of the book!

[Kaz H · Rating 5 out of 5]

A local shopkeeper is found murdered in his shop, Is it a case of competitor war or someone closer to home.
There are several suspects with several reasons for wanting Steve dead.
Tyler and Mills definitely have a difficult case to solve. When a suspect for other shop robberies is caught is it a case of crime solved. Tyler doesn’t think it could be that simple. But the boss thinks otherwise.
Another good read from Mark Fowler and one I never worked out who had done it.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 6 in the crime series with DCI Jim Tyler and DS Danny Mills doesn’t disappoint.
DCI Tyler is like a dog with a bone with this murder and will not stop until he gets the answers , despite his senior officer trying to call a halt to the investigation.
Another great read with the relationship between the 2 main characters being a little strained ( in my opinion) , after all, life doesn’t run smoothly.
Looking forward to reading the next instalment.

[David Chadwick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yet another excellent book, by Stoke author Mark Fowler.
Well worth a read, can’t wait to catch up with Tyler and Mills on their next case.

[Mary Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler and Mills are back when a local grocer is found dead in his shop. Was it a consequence of a burglary which got out of hand, or was it the work of someone else? It is clear that there are several people who seem to have a motive. The higher ranks are determined to close the case as linked to the burglary but Tyler is determined to prove otherwise.

This was a terrifie read. Tyler is quite grumpy here and seemed to be particularly obsessed. I loved the way the friendship between him and Mills is pushed a lot this time round. The tension between the two is quite palpable throughout. The home life of Mills and his wife provided some light relief. As usual, this was a quick and very enjoyable read. It seems a very long time since the last book and this was a very welcome return.

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a local grocer is found murdered in his own home, Tyler and Mills need to solve the crime.

There have been a spate of burglaries in the local shops, and they need to work out if this has been a burglary gone wrong, or something else.

Tyler has a bee in his bonnet about the case, and he is not only jeopardising his friendship with Mills, but making things harder at work.

This was a great welcome back to the Tyler and Mills series. This is the sixth book in the series, and it was like meeting up with old friends.

A complex case with many twists along the way, which kept me guessing throughout.

[Jeanette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy a Tyler and Mills case. They keep you guessing til the end and blood orange was no different. I kept changing my mind who the murderer was and the ending was surprising. I like both characters, their interaction are real and down to earth. Look forward to their next adventure

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read. Tyler & Mills are a fab pairing. Love their banter.
This is one from a series but can be read alone. I’ve not read the others yet but I am going to now.
1st is waiting for me.
Tyler is like a dog with a bone & he won’t just forget & move on. Thankfully he doesn’t!
Great read

[Susan Pearson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book number 6 in the Tyler and Mills series but can be read as a stand alone book.

I really liked this book and found the story line interesting. The story is around a spate of shop robberies where one ends up with the local grocer found dead. There were a range of suspects who all had a range of reasons for the robbery. I did feel Tyler was more grumpy and irritable than usual although I do find him quite difficult to like at times in all of the series. I do like Mills though.

I would recommend this book/series to anyone who likes police investigation stories. Thank you Mark for an early copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Donna Morfett · Rating 4 out of 5]

When a curmudgeonly, grumpy, some might even say, rude, shopkeeper, is found dead by his neighbour, it seems like an open and shut case.
A local burglar has been operating in the area, and the till drawer of the shop is missing. So far he hasn't progressed to murder, but who knows what happened, right?
Well detectives Tyler and Mills aren't convinced. Well one more than the other, but as partners, they have no choice but to go along with it together.
What's uncovered is quite the story of broken marriages, abuse, revenge, the impact of actions in childhood, friendship, love, and addiction. All told in a lighthearted enough way to not depress you by the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will cursing Mark tomorrow when I'm knackered at work as I simply had to finish it.
I hope there's more from these two detectives as well.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 6 of the Tyler and Mills series, I've not read the others but as a fan of crime fiction I really did enjoy this story

A grocer has been found dead on his shop and it's up to Tyler and Mills to find out what happened to him. Those higher up believe it's a consequence of burglary but Tyler has a hunch something more sinister has happened.

I loved the relationship between Tyler and Mills, they make the perfect but odd pairing. It was difficult to determine who the culprit was, as it could of been anyone. This makes for good writing as I hate guessing who it was straight away.

Fantastic plot with plenty of tension, twists and turns. Now I'm going to read the first book of the series!

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do enjoy the Stoke set Tyler and Mills series by Mark L Fowler. Being based a few miles up the road from me, you do get that kind of buzz you can only really appreciate if you’re reading a locally set book. Yes, it’s not a postcard reflection of the city, but it does capture a real spirit of the place, even if sometimes in a more sardonic way. And Tyler and Mills are two characters I love to return to. So very different in nature and personality, but,somehow, they do work.

This time around we find the pair investigating the murder of local shopkeeper, Steve Shawcross, a man who, it can be said, has no shortage of people who he had rubbed up the wrong way. it’s not clear whether or not this is simply another burglary gone wrong, given that a series of break ins had been happening across corner shops in the city, or whether Shawcross had been deliberately targeted. When a suspect is caught red handed in another store, Mills, and the rest of the team, are happy that they have their man. But something doesn’t sit well with Tyler and, much to the disappointment of his senior officer, he persists in investigating all the various people in Shawcross’s life. So, who is right? Tyler, or Mills.

This was a really interesting read, one that got the mind whirring. Tyler is, as fans of the series will know, a man with a troubled past. Everytime it seems he is getting his life together, something happens to plant a seed of doubt in your mind as to how well he is really doing. That was definitely the case in this book, where there was more than the odd occasion that his behaviour, or rather his insistence to carry on, felt more like obsession than dogged determination and instinct. But, the whole case did raise some interesting questions in my mind, and, like Tyler, there were a few unanswered questions of my own that the very quick resolution to the case did not satisfy.

Mark L Fowler throws up a whole range of suspects in this case, from family, to neighbours, even a bit of not quite so friendly rivalry between nearby store owners. He leads us carefully up a number of blind alleys, misdirecting with almost glee, and hiding the truth in plain sight. It’s fair to say that Shawcross, as we come to discover, was not a particularly liked man, but whether any of this is cause for murder … Well, it was for someone. It seems that Stoke really is a very small place afterall, and, with the action taking place virtually on Tyler’s own doorstep, it is very close to home.

I like the dynamic between Tyler and Mills in this series, although it is pushed to it’s limits this time around. There is plenty of banter between the two, with Tyler’s almost stiff upper lip, dry sarcasm a complete contrast to Mill’s more down to earth personality. The scenes between Mills and his wife are always entertaining too as they dissect the case and Tyler’s all too none existent love life. I think we get as many clues from these scenes, if we pay attention, as we do from any of the interviews. It all adds up to a book that made me smile, whilst giving me enough mystery and puzzlement to keep me intent on the page to the final, perhaps not all too surprising conclusion. Fans of the series will love being back in the company of some of Stoke’s finest, Tyler and Mills. Recommended.

[Alyson Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

DCI Jim Tyler is the product of a tough upbringing in London and it shows in his hatred of bullies, authority and hierarchy. Nearly losing his job after hitting a senior officer, he moved to Stoke and was readily taken on by Chief Supt Graham Berkins, he of the formidable moustache, when others shied away from what they considered damaged goods. Divorced, his passion is running, the complete opposite of his now partner DS Danny Mills who appreciates his food far more than exercise and loves the city but lives in the countryside as he loves his wife more. The pair make a formidable partnership in solving crime, even if Tyler baffles Mills at times. In this story, four corner shops have been burgled, the last one resulting in the capture of the robber by the guests of a surprise party. Whilst Berkins and Mills are convinced the man arrested is responsible for all four crimes, Tyler astounds them by doggedly investigating the death of Steve Shawcross, the owner of Steve’s Store who was found hit on the head in his shop. He is still convinced people know more than they are telling and that someone else is responsible, especially as the burglar refuses to admit to the attack. Steve was not a well-liked man, estranged from all but one of his children and known to keep most of his prices high to take advantage of the shoppers who couldn’t or wouldn’t shop further afield. Rumours of a price war with another shop emerge, and Tyler has his doubts about the man who found Steve’s body but could the answer lie elsewhere? There are certainly plenty of good suspects. As he presses on despite warnings from above and several complaints about him, will his tenacity pay off and lead him to the truth or land him in more hot water?
This is book 6 in the series but it works very well on its own (although I think you’d be missing out on some great previous stories!) There is a very likeable relationship between this pair of detectives and I loved Tyler’s dry and very humorous manner. Despite his inner demons and his talent for self-destruction, Tyler has two great minders in the form of his partner and his boss to keep him on the straight and narrow (well, sometimes!). The story itself is told with much wit and warmth and featuring a great murder mystery, makes for a very enjoyable read to keep the reader guessing to the end!

[PJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an avid reader of Crime Mysteries, I do try and add variety to my fiction diet by breaking out into other genres. Thank goodness I did not do so in this case and deny myself the rewards of my first Mark Fowler read, Blood Orange.

This book was full of real life characters. I originate from the Staffordshire area so could truly identify with the quirks of small-town life and idiosyncrasies of local dialect. It subtly revealed the dynamic, often conflicting relationship between the lead detective, Tyler (ignores the politically correct approach and just follows where the ‘circumstances take him’ which is often perceived to be him being down right awkward), and his side kick Mills (less non-conforming and more black and white in his approach).

One additional highlight for me was that, rather than jump between the investigation and the criminal(s), the reader followed the detectives as they solved the case. All too often, crime writers reveal the criminal(s) either from the start or in parallel, which means the reader is deprived arriving at the same time as the detectives when the ‘wow’ moment of the whodunnit is revealed.
And the sense of humour just enhanced the flow further – going forward I will forever observe whether any moustache I come across has the same ‘quiver’ as Tyler describes of that of his boss! Just perfectly pitched.

Coming late to the Mark Fowler ‘game’ (Blood Orange is book 6 in the series) did not deny me the enjoyment of reading this one as a standalone novel. But, now that I am totally hooked, like an addict, I need to satisfy my appetite for more Tyler and Mills. I should also end that Mark was generous enough to trust me with an ARC – thank you Mark for adding a new addiction crime duo to my life.

[Lynda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 6 in the Tyler and Mills Mystery Series set in Stoke. This time DCI Tyler and DS Mills are investigating the suspicious death of a shop owner, Shawcross. The death appears to be a robbery gone wrong and very quickly a suspect is arrested. Although the case appears to be clear cut for some reason Tyler is not satisfied and against the wishes of both Mills and his boss, insists on digging deeper.

Briefly, with Mills constantly looking to increase his already sturdy waistband and Tyler running near marathons every day the two completely opposite individuals find themselves at odds with the victims family. There are a plethora of possible suspects and it is clear that Shawcross would not have won any popularity contests. Meanwhile Tyler’s boss is insisting the suspect in custody is charged.

As secrets start to unravel it becomes clear that not all is as it appears. But can they solve the murder before it is too late? The author has cleverly led the reader up a number of dead ends and just when you think you’ve got it sussed it’s another red herring. The clues are there you just need to see them. banter between the two officers is great although their different views on the case causes some friction. An enjoyable police procedural.
4.5⭐️

[Charlotte Baddeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another in Mark Fowler’s Tyler and Mills series and they just get better. Each is a stand alone but why wouldn’t you want to read the whole series? Quite apart from the intricate and gripping plot both Tyler and Mills have their own very different demons which they deal with in very different ways.

When a local shop keeper is murdered in his shop, in the early hours, it looks like a straight forward robbery gone wrong. Tyler soon has a suspect in custody. But nothing is straightforward in Tyler’s world and he refuses to let go of this case, digging and digging and dragging his hapless side kick Mills with him. Tyler’s refusal to accept the obvious does him no favours with the higher ups who want nothing more than to see this case closed.

Is Tyler right to keep searching? Is there more to this murder than meets the eye? Keep reading.

[Rebecca Charlesworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a first Tyler and Mills for me and although it’s book 6 in a series I felt it was ok to read as a stand alone, maybe I could have missed a little back history with the characters but not that I noticed. A good well written storyline that held my interest. A shop owner, and not a nice one at that is murdered, everyone thinks it’s a quick solve, but Tyler is like a dog with a bone , this is a story of all is not as simple as it seems.
I want to see how the dynamics of the pair progress over time so I’m going to go and start at the beginning.

[Kath Middleton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyler is still, to me, rather an enigmatic character, and Mills is far more easily accessible. I envisage him as someone whose thoughts are visible on his face. This time, a murder at a shop is considered as part of a robbery but Tyler, like a dog with a bone, won't accept the obvious solution. It's a great story as Tyler goes out on a limb, and other evidence gradually comes available. A great puzzle and a deep look into characters' psyches. An immersive read.

[Lins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark really has the knack to keep you guessing

Mark is very clever at keeping you guessing, almost to the very last page. So many suspects, all with a motive, Tyler has the edge in this book and he won’t give in to pressure once he gets a bee in his bonnet. It’s also great learning more about the main characters with each new book. Thanks Mark and I’m very happy to recommend it. See if anyone can guess who dunnit, I know I didn’t.

[Mark Pearce · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the latest in the series of Tyler and Mills. They are the original 'Chalk and Cheese', or perhaps 'Little and Large'! A good plot and satisfactory resolution.
This book was sent to me as a review copy.

[Martha Brindley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable read, interesting plotting and a host of great characters. I would recommend this to crime fiction lovers as a good series to read.