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Marshal of Snowdonia #2
False Witness
When retired detective Frank Marshal believes that a local man’s suicide is suspicious, he and his friend Annie investigate, only to unearth a dark web of conspiracy, government cover-ups and betrayal.
Frank Marshal lives in a remote part of Snowdonia / Eryi with his wife Rachel who is suffering from dementia. When Frank finds a local man who has taken his own life, he is convinced that his death is more than suspicious, despite the misgivings of local police who believe there is nothing more to the man’s death.
With the help of his best friend Annie, a retired Crown Court Judge, they discover the man, a local teacher, had been suspended from work over allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Is this the key to his death? However, when Frank and Annie unearth a class legal action of ex-British soldiers who are still suffering from Gulf War syndrome, it seems that the man’s death might be a result of this instead.
Can Frank and Annie uncover the sinister truth behind the murder? Or will a brutal killer strike again to hide their tracks?
Marshal of Snowdonia is the second book in the Frank Marshal Crime Thriller series from multi-million bestselling author Simon McCleave. If you like dark thrillers, psychologically complex characters and shocking twists, then you’ll love Simon McCleave’s pulse-pounding novel. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, JM Dalgleish, Rachel McLean and JD Kirk.
Frank Marshal lives in a remote part of Snowdonia / Eryi with his wife Rachel who is suffering from dementia. When Frank finds a local man who has taken his own life, he is convinced that his death is more than suspicious, despite the misgivings of local police who believe there is nothing more to the man’s death.
With the help of his best friend Annie, a retired Crown Court Judge, they discover the man, a local teacher, had been suspended from work over allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Is this the key to his death? However, when Frank and Annie unearth a class legal action of ex-British soldiers who are still suffering from Gulf War syndrome, it seems that the man’s death might be a result of this instead.
Can Frank and Annie uncover the sinister truth behind the murder? Or will a brutal killer strike again to hide their tracks?
Marshal of Snowdonia is the second book in the Frank Marshal Crime Thriller series from multi-million bestselling author Simon McCleave. If you like dark thrillers, psychologically complex characters and shocking twists, then you’ll love Simon McCleave’s pulse-pounding novel. Perfect for fans of LJ Ross, JM Dalgleish, Rachel McLean and JD Kirk.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
May 27, 2025
4.5+ The second book in the series and the 4th book By Simon McCleave I have read. I also added Cymer Abbey to my list of places to visit next time I am in North Wales..
Look forward to seeing where book 3 goes..
Look forward to seeing where book 3 goes..
June 9, 2025
Frank at his best
Another episode where Frank and Annie get on over there heads. A complicated murder mystery that takes Frank on a wild ride
Another episode where Frank and Annie get on over there heads. A complicated murder mystery that takes Frank on a wild ride
December 17, 2025
“A huge moon sat easily on the shoulders of the nearby mountains. I'd heard on the radio it was a 'blood moon'. According to Welsh folklore, a blood moon represented the dark, ominous side of the Welsh goddess Cerridwen. She was the keeper of The Cauldron of Knowledge. Cer-ridwen and her husband Tagad Foel had a very deformed son, Afagddu, and a beautiful daughter, Creirwy. The legend tells how Cerridwen brewed up a potion from her magic cauldron to give to her son to make him beautiful. However, Creirwy sabotaged this as she didn't want her brother to be as beautiful as herself. Taking the potion herself, Creirwy thought that it would make her even more beautiful but it had the opposite effect. Now disfigured and hideous, Creirwy saw her shocking reflection in a lake in Eryri/ Snowdonia and was so distraught that she walked into the lake and drowned herself.
It was another cheery legend from the canon of Welsh folktales.”
“'No!' I yelled, as I spotted what I was
looking for. Llewelyn's Clogwyn. Or Llewelyn's Bluff.
It was about two hundred yards ahead
of us….Llewelyn's Clogwyn was a hundred-foot precipice that seemed to come from nowhere.”
It was another cheery legend from the canon of Welsh folktales.”
“'No!' I yelled, as I spotted what I was
looking for. Llewelyn's Clogwyn. Or Llewelyn's Bluff.
It was about two hundred yards ahead
of us….Llewelyn's Clogwyn was a hundred-foot precipice that seemed to come from nowhere.”
July 21, 2025
Another gem from Simon McCleave.
This is the second book inhißlaatsst series Marshall of Snowdonia. Threes notes on from the first book, Frank Marshall is horse riding with his grandson, and they are approached by a very distressed woman.She tells him that she has found her husband hanging in an outbuilding. The apparent suicide rouses Frank's suspicious. The police dismissed it as a suicide, so Frank, together with his friend, retired judge, Annie, decided to investigate.
There is a wide range of characters here with vivid descriptions of them all.These include, amongst others, an inept DCI, mercenaries, and the Ministry of Defence. Just to finish it of there's a surprise ending. The author's experience as a screen writer shines through throughout.
This is a very enjoyable quick read. This book will work well as a stand-alone story, but I would recommend reading the series from the start as number 3 is already available, and the fourth is due before the end of the year.
This is the second book inhißlaatsst series Marshall of Snowdonia. Threes notes on from the first book, Frank Marshall is horse riding with his grandson, and they are approached by a very distressed woman.She tells him that she has found her husband hanging in an outbuilding. The apparent suicide rouses Frank's suspicious. The police dismissed it as a suicide, so Frank, together with his friend, retired judge, Annie, decided to investigate.
There is a wide range of characters here with vivid descriptions of them all.These include, amongst others, an inept DCI, mercenaries, and the Ministry of Defence. Just to finish it of there's a surprise ending. The author's experience as a screen writer shines through throughout.
This is a very enjoyable quick read. This book will work well as a stand-alone story, but I would recommend reading the series from the start as number 3 is already available, and the fourth is due before the end of the year.
October 18, 2025
Interesting
Well apart from the protagonist not knowing how old he is this book was ok. I must say after reading book one which I enjoyed and was a good introduction to a new series, I'm a little disappointed by character development. Marshal gets away with far more than is believable, granted he's an ex-cop...but still! He makes a good team with his 'best friend' Anna and they certainly seem agile despite being aging sleuths. There are too many events happening in such a short space of time for my liking and Marshal's neglect for his wife and his part time job is disturbing (too busy catching criminals). It's definitely a cosy crime series regardless of one horrific crime after another (over the two books). It's a little too twee for me but if you like easy to follow mystery stories with endearing characters and a biscuit with your cuppa then it's probably right up your street. I think I'll leave it a book two.
Well apart from the protagonist not knowing how old he is this book was ok. I must say after reading book one which I enjoyed and was a good introduction to a new series, I'm a little disappointed by character development. Marshal gets away with far more than is believable, granted he's an ex-cop...but still! He makes a good team with his 'best friend' Anna and they certainly seem agile despite being aging sleuths. There are too many events happening in such a short space of time for my liking and Marshal's neglect for his wife and his part time job is disturbing (too busy catching criminals). It's definitely a cosy crime series regardless of one horrific crime after another (over the two books). It's a little too twee for me but if you like easy to follow mystery stories with endearing characters and a biscuit with your cuppa then it's probably right up your street. I think I'll leave it a book two.
April 3, 2025
False Witness - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A twisty, unputdownable thriller that fully kept my attention throughout, False Witness by Simon McCleave is #2 in his Frank Marshal Crime Thriller Series, set in Wales.
Retired policeman Frank's family issues were interwoven between the main storyline's scenes, in which Frank and Annie, (a retired judge) took on the case of apparent suicide by a man known to both of them for different reasons.
Short chapters kept the action fast and the emotions tense, and made False Witness unputdownable.
Highly recommended to fans of Blake Pierce, Dan Padavona and Kate Bold...
grab your copy today!
A twisty, unputdownable thriller that fully kept my attention throughout, False Witness by Simon McCleave is #2 in his Frank Marshal Crime Thriller Series, set in Wales.
Retired policeman Frank's family issues were interwoven between the main storyline's scenes, in which Frank and Annie, (a retired judge) took on the case of apparent suicide by a man known to both of them for different reasons.
Short chapters kept the action fast and the emotions tense, and made False Witness unputdownable.
Highly recommended to fans of Blake Pierce, Dan Padavona and Kate Bold...
grab your copy today!
May 19, 2025
Excellent sorry, Already ready the first in the series and have taken to Frank and Annie and their quirky methods of investigation. Despite being 7o they dice with danger like people half their age. I won't add spoilers, all I suggest is you buy the books and immerse yourself into the lives of these wily pensioners. Never underestimate their methods when uncovering crime. I am about to start the 3rd in the series Deadly Care, I'm sure I will be in for a thrilling read? I have also pre-ordered book 4 due out in December, a very nice Christmas gift for myself. A tip, Put yourself into the shoes of lead characters and investigate the crime as them, I found it heart stopping, a real rollercoaster of a ride. Can't wait to read what they get up to next.
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October 22, 2025Wow, this author is excellent with his twists and turns and surprise endings. I am already anxiously waiting for his next book in this series.
The sadness of his personal life with the slow progression of his wife's Dementia as well as the
ongoing danger of his Grandson being kidnapped again by his very violent Father. TJ.
Any book that leaves wanting more is the book I want to read.
I have already started one of his other series which is also a real nail biter as well.
Very good stuff! Kudos to you Simon McCleave!
The sadness of his personal life with the slow progression of his wife's Dementia as well as the
ongoing danger of his Grandson being kidnapped again by his very violent Father. TJ.
Any book that leaves wanting more is the book I want to read.
I have already started one of his other series which is also a real nail biter as well.
Very good stuff! Kudos to you Simon McCleave!
March 28, 2025
False Witness: (Marshall of Snowdonia Book 2)
This book had me in a thrall just like book 1, it was gripping and exciting but frightening in many ways. The characters of Frank and Annie are outstanding. Frank’s family are so believable too. The car chases are so gripping and the horses play such a big part. It’s amazing to read a book where you know every place and can see it in your minds eye. Another great book from Simon McCleave. Thank you
This book had me in a thrall just like book 1, it was gripping and exciting but frightening in many ways. The characters of Frank and Annie are outstanding. Frank’s family are so believable too. The car chases are so gripping and the horses play such a big part. It’s amazing to read a book where you know every place and can see it in your minds eye. Another great book from Simon McCleave. Thank you
May 8, 2025
Thoroughly great read
Really enjoyed this second book on the series which kept me glued to my phone every minute possible to find out which way the story was going to go.
Lovely being able to immerse myself into the various journeys around Wales as I could picture in my mind from holidays in the region all the places Frank and Annie visited. Really looking forward to reading the next book 😊
Really enjoyed this second book on the series which kept me glued to my phone every minute possible to find out which way the story was going to go.
Lovely being able to immerse myself into the various journeys around Wales as I could picture in my mind from holidays in the region all the places Frank and Annie visited. Really looking forward to reading the next book 😊
May 19, 2025
Simon clearly knows North Wales very well and it is interesting that he throws in some historical references regarding the area.
I really identify with his characters as I am of a certain vintage myself. Coming from Liverpool myself I have been to a lot of the different places that he describes in the books so that gives an added connection for me personally. The plots are very intriguing and keep you guessing until the very end which I enjoy
I really identify with his characters as I am of a certain vintage myself. Coming from Liverpool myself I have been to a lot of the different places that he describes in the books so that gives an added connection for me personally. The plots are very intriguing and keep you guessing until the very end which I enjoy
March 29, 2025
This is a great book, written from the viewpoint of a retired detective Frank Marshal. This gives us the perspective of a critical view of poor policemen and activity. In the event there is a great twist at the end of the book which I didn't see coming. Looking forward to the next one.
Julian Tremayne, Pocklington, East Yorkshire
Julian Tremayne, Pocklington, East Yorkshire
March 30, 2025
Another success!
When this series started I wasn't sure how it would be. I'm pleased to say that it is grabbing me now and I can't wait for the next installment. This was a page turner supreme with a superb beginning,a brilliant middle and a great ending. Well done to Simon McLeave .
When this series started I wasn't sure how it would be. I'm pleased to say that it is grabbing me now and I can't wait for the next installment. This was a page turner supreme with a superb beginning,a brilliant middle and a great ending. Well done to Simon McLeave .
April 3, 2025
Another brilliant read from McCleave! Twists and turns everywhere in this read and a truly fun read. Characters are so thoughtfully written and brought in and out at the perfect time. The ending was another twist with me thinking of only one of the characters as being guilty. Thank you Simon McCleave for another great book!
Carla Farrell
Carla Farrell
April 12, 2025
Book 2 as good as Book 1
A great follow up to Marshall of Snowdonia, this time it gets more personal for Frank and Annie as they both know the family of the victim. Is Marcus's death suicide, a personal grudge, family related or part of his campaign against the Ministry of Defence.
You'll only find this out at the end of the book.l
A great follow up to Marshall of Snowdonia, this time it gets more personal for Frank and Annie as they both know the family of the victim. Is Marcus's death suicide, a personal grudge, family related or part of his campaign against the Ministry of Defence.
You'll only find this out at the end of the book.l
April 23, 2025
Brilliant
No 2 read got to wait till next week to find out what escapade Frank and Annie get up to next they have made my week enjoyable,pity they are older teenagers they won't be galivanting around North Wales ,he will have to chop his truck for a mobility scooter soon but continue with your semi retirement.
No 2 read got to wait till next week to find out what escapade Frank and Annie get up to next they have made my week enjoyable,pity they are older teenagers they won't be galivanting around North Wales ,he will have to chop his truck for a mobility scooter soon but continue with your semi retirement.
May 30, 2025
Good exciting read
The author did it again with this book...gained my interest right from the start. I really like the two main characters and I like how the author keeps them as best friends so far. The story was intriguing and he wound it nicely to a very surprising ending.
I am excited to continue with the next book in the series.
The author did it again with this book...gained my interest right from the start. I really like the two main characters and I like how the author keeps them as best friends so far. The story was intriguing and he wound it nicely to a very surprising ending.
I am excited to continue with the next book in the series.
May 31, 2025
I love the character of Frank Marshal and his friend Annie.They are like a dog with a bone,never giving up until the crime is solved.They are like incident on chase with the horse and the Range Rover stretched the imagination,but other than that Simon has a great way of keeping you involved.He is a wonderful storyteller.
September 23, 2025
A real mystery
I like the main character of this series. Frank was in the police for 35 years, and he was good at his job. He is older and retired, but he still has an eye for details that the cuurent chief in the area does not appreciate. These are also clean books, no bad language or sex scenes.
I like the main character of this series. Frank was in the police for 35 years, and he was good at his job. He is older and retired, but he still has an eye for details that the cuurent chief in the area does not appreciate. These are also clean books, no bad language or sex scenes.
March 28, 2025
Brilliant new series
Loved all the books by simon, this is the 2nd book in a new series and fast becoming a new favourite.
Frank and Annie make a great team with plenty of humour.
I look forward to the next book as they continue to solve crime in Wales.
Loved all the books by simon, this is the 2nd book in a new series and fast becoming a new favourite.
Frank and Annie make a great team with plenty of humour.
I look forward to the next book as they continue to solve crime in Wales.
March 29, 2025
So difficult to put down!
Yet another, twist in the tail novel by that master story teller Simon McCleave. I found it almost impossible to put down, but one has to sleep sometime, I actually read I just two days.
Yet another, twist in the tail novel by that master story teller Simon McCleave. I found it almost impossible to put down, but one has to sleep sometime, I actually read I just two days.
April 29, 2025
Simon never disappoints. Love Frank and Annie, love the description of him being the Clint Eastwood of Snowdonia. Lovely twist and makes us oldies feel that life is not over just because you are a certain age!!
May 2, 2025
Another great book by Simon McCleave
Couldn’t put this down. Can’t wait for the next.
Brilliant new series.
If you haven’t read other Simon McCleave books, read them all. You won’t be disappointed.
Couldn’t put this down. Can’t wait for the next.
Brilliant new series.
If you haven’t read other Simon McCleave books, read them all. You won’t be disappointed.
May 19, 2025
Enjoyed this and the twist at the end was surprising. Wonder what Frank has for breakfast because for a 70 year old he is amazingly tough. At time there was too much going on with too many strands to the storyline. Will continue with the next in series.
July 24, 2025
I enjoyed reading this until the end. The resolution came out of left field (to me, at least), was totally unearned and made no sense. Otherwise, it wasn't badly written, although the characterization was a bit thin.
July 25, 2025
top quality crime story
A book that’s well written and easy to follow and understand
The author has created believable characters and a well researched background
Highly recommended and easy to put down and then re continue
A book that’s well written and easy to follow and understand
The author has created believable characters and a well researched background
Highly recommended and easy to put down and then re continue
October 26, 2025
Another great read!
Really enjoying this new series by Simon McCleave. Lovely development of the main characters but also a great plot with surprising twists & turns in the story. Looking forward to the next one!
Really enjoying this new series by Simon McCleave. Lovely development of the main characters but also a great plot with surprising twists & turns in the story. Looking forward to the next one!
November 4, 2025
Another twisting tale
Great story again, I was left wondering about the MOD and mercenary link. What was the final bit of that leg.
Makes you want to keep reading more,
The Annie character keeps getting better,
Great story again, I was left wondering about the MOD and mercenary link. What was the final bit of that leg.
Makes you want to keep reading more,
The Annie character keeps getting better,
March 26, 2025
Another great read
Great characters,great descriptions of places. Reminded me of when I lived in North Wales. I have walked my dogs in many of the places mentioned in this.
Great characters,great descriptions of places. Reminded me of when I lived in North Wales. I have walked my dogs in many of the places mentioned in this.
March 26, 2025
Bri!liant.
Such a good read with an unexpected ending! It never crossed my mind who was the guilty party. Thank you so much for yet another great read.
Such a good read with an unexpected ending! It never crossed my mind who was the guilty party. Thank you so much for yet another great read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews