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Desperate Silence:
A nine-year-old girl is missing. Her parents are frantic with worry, and local searches turn up nothing.
Having been widowed in the past year, Hull based Detective Inspector Paul Calvert takes some time away and heads to Argyll, Scotland, for some fell walking, whisky drinking and relaxation. Always in the wrong place at the wrong time, Calvert is pulled into the investigation of the missing girl.
When she, Florence Findlay, is found, she utters only one word, ‘Hayley’.
Initially overjoyed to have Florence safely returned to them, the Findlay’s emotions now rollercoaster as they discover that Hayley, their other daughter missing for a decade, could still be alive.
Calvert races against time to find a second missing girl, and potentially, against all odds, reunite the Findlay family.
Having been widowed in the past year, Hull based Detective Inspector Paul Calvert takes some time away and heads to Argyll, Scotland, for some fell walking, whisky drinking and relaxation. Always in the wrong place at the wrong time, Calvert is pulled into the investigation of the missing girl.
When she, Florence Findlay, is found, she utters only one word, ‘Hayley’.
Initially overjoyed to have Florence safely returned to them, the Findlay’s emotions now rollercoaster as they discover that Hayley, their other daughter missing for a decade, could still be alive.
Calvert races against time to find a second missing girl, and potentially, against all odds, reunite the Findlay family.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2025
5 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
Mark Pettinger
9 books43 followersMark Pettinger is a crime fiction writer of the DCI Priest novels. His debut The Decalogue entered the Amazon Bestseller Top 100 list in December 2015, and the Top 10 on the sub-genre of ‘police procedurals’.
Fitting his writing around his 'day job'; Mark's writing pattern is somewhat sporadic, and he writes when he can, which currently is in hotel rooms / foyer, or in an airport lounge trying to keep one eye on the departure board to ensure he doesn’t miss his flight!
Mark's interest in the murky world of crime started a number of years ago when he was attracted to reading true crime. He became fascinated with the exploits of the Yorkshire Ripper, Dennis Nilsen, John Wayne Gacy, Andrei Chikatilo etc. An avid reader of many genre's, but his attention turned to favouring crime fiction; and his reading list includes Ian Rankin, Mark Billingham, Lynda La Plante, Jo Nesbo, and latterly CJ Tudor (for something just that little bit special).
Mark has openly credited Ian Rankin as the primary inspiration for not only stirring his interest in reading crime fiction, but also 'picking up the pen'.
Mark has published three hugely successful crime fiction novels: The Decalogue in 2012, Tick Tock Time's Up in 2015, Paper Soldiers in 2020 and more recently Where Darkness Lies in February 2023.
Next on his list is a standalone crime thriller, due for publication in December 2023.
www.markpettinger.com
Fitting his writing around his 'day job'; Mark's writing pattern is somewhat sporadic, and he writes when he can, which currently is in hotel rooms / foyer, or in an airport lounge trying to keep one eye on the departure board to ensure he doesn’t miss his flight!
Mark's interest in the murky world of crime started a number of years ago when he was attracted to reading true crime. He became fascinated with the exploits of the Yorkshire Ripper, Dennis Nilsen, John Wayne Gacy, Andrei Chikatilo etc. An avid reader of many genre's, but his attention turned to favouring crime fiction; and his reading list includes Ian Rankin, Mark Billingham, Lynda La Plante, Jo Nesbo, and latterly CJ Tudor (for something just that little bit special).
Mark has openly credited Ian Rankin as the primary inspiration for not only stirring his interest in reading crime fiction, but also 'picking up the pen'.
Mark has published three hugely successful crime fiction novels: The Decalogue in 2012, Tick Tock Time's Up in 2015, Paper Soldiers in 2020 and more recently Where Darkness Lies in February 2023.
Next on his list is a standalone crime thriller, due for publication in December 2023.
www.markpettinger.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 24, 2025
Desperate Silence introduces us to Paul Calvert, a detective inspector from Hull taking a much-earnee holiday in a small Scottish village. Recently widowed, it's the first time Paul has been away by himself and he's determined to make the most of it.
The universe has other plans, however. During his break, a young girl, Florence, goes missing from her own back garden. After joining the public search for her, Paul finds himself working the case in a professional capacity since the local senior officers are either sick or on holiday.
This is a fairly light police procedural, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Paul is a great character, though other than his widower status he seems to lack any real complexities. I'm hopeful that in future books - this is the first in a DI Calvert series - his character will be explored further.
The case at hand revolves around nine year old Florence and her parents. What makes this case even stranger is that, 10 years before, Florence's sister Hayley went missing. She was never found. The search for Florence is detailed and tense, and I've thoroughly enjoyed following the investigation, both the police side and the more personal side.
Desperate Silence culminates with some thrilling chapters and, ultimately, a happy ending, but I feel like the book's blurb majorly spoils the plot. From the back of the book, we know that Florence is found, even though that doesn't happen until roughly two-thirds in. Knowing the outcome ruins the tension somewhat. This is a great book, I won't hesitate to recommend it, and future DI Calvert installations will be must-reads for me. I just hope that blurb gets revisited and reworked at some point.
The universe has other plans, however. During his break, a young girl, Florence, goes missing from her own back garden. After joining the public search for her, Paul finds himself working the case in a professional capacity since the local senior officers are either sick or on holiday.
This is a fairly light police procedural, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Paul is a great character, though other than his widower status he seems to lack any real complexities. I'm hopeful that in future books - this is the first in a DI Calvert series - his character will be explored further.
The case at hand revolves around nine year old Florence and her parents. What makes this case even stranger is that, 10 years before, Florence's sister Hayley went missing. She was never found. The search for Florence is detailed and tense, and I've thoroughly enjoyed following the investigation, both the police side and the more personal side.
Desperate Silence culminates with some thrilling chapters and, ultimately, a happy ending, but I feel like the book's blurb majorly spoils the plot. From the back of the book, we know that Florence is found, even though that doesn't happen until roughly two-thirds in. Knowing the outcome ruins the tension somewhat. This is a great book, I won't hesitate to recommend it, and future DI Calvert installations will be must-reads for me. I just hope that blurb gets revisited and reworked at some point.
May 19, 2025
Desperate Silence introduces readers to DI Calvert, a detective meant to be enjoying a well-earned holiday - except, of course, things don’t go to plan. A local girl goes missing and DI Calvert finds himself pulled straight into the heart of the investigation. The repeated ‘right place, right time’ / ‘wrong place, wrong time’ line runs throughout the book, setting up the premise but also becoming a bit overused.
The book is very easy to read - the writing style flows well and the heavy use of dialogue makes it a fast-paced experience that avoids unnecessary filler. If you’re a fan of mystery reads that focus more on character interactions than long-winded descriptions, this could be a good fit for you.
That said, there were a few things that didn’t quite land for me. The writing at times felt repetitive - particularly in scenes where the main character introduced himself or explained his involvement in the case, which were revisited more times than necessary. Some sections also dwelled on details that didn’t feel relevant, while more impactful moments (like the girl’s reappearance) were glossed over too quickly and lacked the emotional punch they deserved.
Another drawback was that the book’s blurb revealed too much - most of what happens up until around 60% of the story had already been spelled out in the description, which affected the suspense for me personally. The bulk of the book focuses on the efforts to find Florence, but we already know she’s going to be found - so the tension is lost before it can build. Meanwhile, Hayley’s rescue, which should have been the emotional high point, felt rushed and underdeveloped in comparison.
In terms of plot twists, there weren’t many surprises. A suspicious character is introduced very early on and, despite DI Calvert himself pointing out how off this person seemed, it’s not properly investigated - which made it fairly easy to guess who was behind everything. Either more potential suspects needed to be introduced, or the obvious one should’ve been handled with more nuance - maybe with a fake alibi or just held back as a suspect entirely. As it stands, there’s no real shock factor when the truth is revealed, just frustration that the story didn’t dig deeper.
Still, the groundwork for a compelling series is there. While the story didn’t quite deliver the suspense or intricacy I was hoping for, I want to acknowledge that this is a debut, and there’s definitely potential. With tighter editing and more refined plotting, future books in the series could really grow into something special.
Rating: 3.5 stars - rounded up to 4 in support of a promising debut in the series.
The book is very easy to read - the writing style flows well and the heavy use of dialogue makes it a fast-paced experience that avoids unnecessary filler. If you’re a fan of mystery reads that focus more on character interactions than long-winded descriptions, this could be a good fit for you.
That said, there were a few things that didn’t quite land for me. The writing at times felt repetitive - particularly in scenes where the main character introduced himself or explained his involvement in the case, which were revisited more times than necessary. Some sections also dwelled on details that didn’t feel relevant, while more impactful moments (like the girl’s reappearance) were glossed over too quickly and lacked the emotional punch they deserved.
Another drawback was that the book’s blurb revealed too much - most of what happens up until around 60% of the story had already been spelled out in the description, which affected the suspense for me personally. The bulk of the book focuses on the efforts to find Florence, but we already know she’s going to be found - so the tension is lost before it can build. Meanwhile, Hayley’s rescue, which should have been the emotional high point, felt rushed and underdeveloped in comparison.
In terms of plot twists, there weren’t many surprises. A suspicious character is introduced very early on and, despite DI Calvert himself pointing out how off this person seemed, it’s not properly investigated - which made it fairly easy to guess who was behind everything. Either more potential suspects needed to be introduced, or the obvious one should’ve been handled with more nuance - maybe with a fake alibi or just held back as a suspect entirely. As it stands, there’s no real shock factor when the truth is revealed, just frustration that the story didn’t dig deeper.
Still, the groundwork for a compelling series is there. While the story didn’t quite deliver the suspense or intricacy I was hoping for, I want to acknowledge that this is a debut, and there’s definitely potential. With tighter editing and more refined plotting, future books in the series could really grow into something special.
Rating: 3.5 stars - rounded up to 4 in support of a promising debut in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2025
This is the start of a brand new detective series featuring DI Calvert and what a brilliant start.
I actually read a book by this author last year, which I loved, but it was a book 4 in a previous series.
So, I was keen to read this new release and get to know this new detective from the very start.
Calvert is an interesting character and even from the little snippets of background and getting to know his character in this book, I just know that I'm going to enjoy getting to know him much more over the course of this whole series.
Here, we see Calvert taking a break after being recently widowed.
Although he was supposedly taking things easy, away from home - he couldn't help getting dragged into a local case when a girl goes missing.
This was another uniquely plotted case as the original missing girl is found quite quickly - but the circumstances drag up and old case involving the little girl's sister who went missing years ago.
It was great to see the working relationship that Calvert built up even within the new team - it will be interesting to see how this translates to his home force - if indeed a transfer doesn't ensue....
I loved the setting for this book - the area was well described and I could envision it clearly - I really must visit Scotland one day as I'm always so drawn into these smaller villages and quieter areas of the Highlands.
This was written with a good pace that had me racing to discover what had happened to the girls and how the cases related.
I love a good detective series and I can definitely see me getting hooked on this one - I can't wait to see how things develop for Calvert in book 2.
May 7, 2025
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I was impressed by his descriptions. He really put you in the scenes. And I'm gorgeous Scotland, most of the time, that's a lovely experience. Of course, in crime fiction, it is very occasionally unwelcome. But he did a good balancing act, in my opinion.
This was an interesting introduction to DI Calvert, catching him when he was supposed to be on vacation. Of course, I could now do without hearing the term "busman's holiday," for quite awhile, as I'm sure could Calvert. 🤣 He was a nice, competent detective who seems like he could man the helm of a good British detective series. And I really enjoyed the story.
It was such a quirky, confusing tale. The unlikely set up was of course intriguing and had the power to keep the pages turning. But the series of unfortunate events that kept Calvert at the head of an investigation 400 miles from home while he was supposed be on vacation was a bit of a darkly humourous subplot that definitely kept me interested.
I don't think this would be considered a cozy as the detective is a regular detective, just on vacation. However, the quirky town full of supporting characters and the incredibly rural setting really lends itself to a cozy vibe. And, the town ends up being almost like a character itself much like in cozies.
This was an interesting introduction to DI Calvert, catching him when he was supposed to be on vacation. Of course, I could now do without hearing the term "busman's holiday," for quite awhile, as I'm sure could Calvert. 🤣 He was a nice, competent detective who seems like he could man the helm of a good British detective series. And I really enjoyed the story.
It was such a quirky, confusing tale. The unlikely set up was of course intriguing and had the power to keep the pages turning. But the series of unfortunate events that kept Calvert at the head of an investigation 400 miles from home while he was supposed be on vacation was a bit of a darkly humourous subplot that definitely kept me interested.
I don't think this would be considered a cozy as the detective is a regular detective, just on vacation. However, the quirky town full of supporting characters and the incredibly rural setting really lends itself to a cozy vibe. And, the town ends up being almost like a character itself much like in cozies.
May 23, 2025
My review is actually 3.5 stars but boodreads doesnt allow for half stars!
This is book one in the detective inspector Paul Calvert series, he works for the Humberside police force and whilst DI Calvert is on holiday in Scotland a nine-year-old girl goes missing from her own back garden. Paul is asked to help find the child before it’s too late. It quickly comes to light to Paul that this isn’t the first time this has happened in this small community, or indeed to this family, as 10 years prior their oldest child, Haley, also went missing in very similar circumstances.
So I really enjoyed this book, and I know that sounds a bit surprised about the fact, so let me tell you why. When I started the book, I wasn’t sure about it and that was mainly down to the few instances of flowery over description in places. Now this is a personal preference and has nothing to do with the author skills at writing, and some people are likely to completely disagree with me and that’s absolutely fine. Anyway, as the story progressed the instances of this grew lesson less. And as I said, this is a personal preference and for me it did not detract from the story overall and I did enjoy it. I liked Paul, he was a strong favourite for me and I would definitely like to read more in this series. There were some good plot twists and it was a good read, and I would recommend.
This is book one in the detective inspector Paul Calvert series, he works for the Humberside police force and whilst DI Calvert is on holiday in Scotland a nine-year-old girl goes missing from her own back garden. Paul is asked to help find the child before it’s too late. It quickly comes to light to Paul that this isn’t the first time this has happened in this small community, or indeed to this family, as 10 years prior their oldest child, Haley, also went missing in very similar circumstances.
So I really enjoyed this book, and I know that sounds a bit surprised about the fact, so let me tell you why. When I started the book, I wasn’t sure about it and that was mainly down to the few instances of flowery over description in places. Now this is a personal preference and has nothing to do with the author skills at writing, and some people are likely to completely disagree with me and that’s absolutely fine. Anyway, as the story progressed the instances of this grew lesson less. And as I said, this is a personal preference and for me it did not detract from the story overall and I did enjoy it. I liked Paul, he was a strong favourite for me and I would definitely like to read more in this series. There were some good plot twists and it was a good read, and I would recommend.
May 1, 2025
‘Desperate Silence’ is the beginning of a new series from the pen of Mark Pettinger. This was a brilliant introduction to DI Paul Calvert who with the ubiquitous Yorkshire bluntness (I can say that, I’m from Scarborough!) comes across as a solid copper. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the rest of the series.
After the death of his wife earlier in the year, Hull based DI Calvert decides he needs a holiday. He ends up up in the Loch Fyne area hoping to sample the local whisky and some do some hiking. However, when a local girl, Florence, from the village goes missing he joins the search party. But there is a twist as her sister also went missing ten years ago and was never found!
I enjoyed getting to know Paul and the residents of Kelvedie. There were some light moments of humour sprinkled throughout the book to help break up the dark topics. I did think author could have delved into the ‘darkness’ more but that is probably just my taste in crime fiction. It is a very quick read and I read it in a day as it was very engrossing once the story got going.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
May 25, 2025
The story begins with Calvert, a recently widowed detective from Hull, taking a much-needed holiday in a quiet Scottish village. He’s looking for peace, a chance to escape his grief, but that doesn’t last long. A young girl, Florence, goes missing, and despite being on vacation, Calvert finds himself drawn into the investigation. As he digs deeper, he uncovers shocking connections to a case from ten years earlier—Florence’s sister, Hayley, who vanished and was never found.
I really enjoyed the way the book balanced suspense and mystery. The investigation kept me turning the pages, wondering how everything was connected. The setting was beautifully described, making the Argyll, Scotland, feel alive.
Calvert himself was such a strong lead, gruff, no-nonsense, but deeply committed to justice. His personal struggles made him even more relatable, and I appreciated how the story touched on his grief without overshadowing the mystery.
Despite the dark themes, there were moments that lightened the mood, making it an even more enjoyable read.
Now that I’ve been introduced to DI Calvert, I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
I really enjoyed the way the book balanced suspense and mystery. The investigation kept me turning the pages, wondering how everything was connected. The setting was beautifully described, making the Argyll, Scotland, feel alive.
Calvert himself was such a strong lead, gruff, no-nonsense, but deeply committed to justice. His personal struggles made him even more relatable, and I appreciated how the story touched on his grief without overshadowing the mystery.
Despite the dark themes, there were moments that lightened the mood, making it an even more enjoyable read.
Now that I’ve been introduced to DI Calvert, I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
May 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This fast paced British police thriller centres around every parents worst nightmare - when Florence age 9 goes missing.
The tale is told via DCI Paul Calvert, a holidaying Hull detective, who happens to be in the wrong place at the right time and ends in leading the hunt for Florence in small village in Scotland.
I liked Paul- he’s a matter of fact character, with a sense of humour and a no nonsense attitude. I imagine that we will see some more depth to his character in future books to the series which will be good to see.
Despite its harrowing subject matter, this is in fact a character driven novel, and was fast paced and super easy reading. I enjoyed meeting the colourful characters in the village, the B & B setting giving off an almost Midsummer Murder vibe, so would definitely suit fans of a cozy mystery read.
There was a lot of focus on the Police search for Florence, and I personally found the procedural aspects interesting.
I think it would have helped increase the tension though, if we hadn’t been told certain things in the blurb, as I felt like I was waiting for that to happen but overall a good first introduction to DCI Calvert. I can imagine this would suit any fan of a British Police procedural thriller.
Thanks to the author and @lovebookstours for the gifted copy for review.
This fast paced British police thriller centres around every parents worst nightmare - when Florence age 9 goes missing.
The tale is told via DCI Paul Calvert, a holidaying Hull detective, who happens to be in the wrong place at the right time and ends in leading the hunt for Florence in small village in Scotland.
I liked Paul- he’s a matter of fact character, with a sense of humour and a no nonsense attitude. I imagine that we will see some more depth to his character in future books to the series which will be good to see.
Despite its harrowing subject matter, this is in fact a character driven novel, and was fast paced and super easy reading. I enjoyed meeting the colourful characters in the village, the B & B setting giving off an almost Midsummer Murder vibe, so would definitely suit fans of a cozy mystery read.
There was a lot of focus on the Police search for Florence, and I personally found the procedural aspects interesting.
I think it would have helped increase the tension though, if we hadn’t been told certain things in the blurb, as I felt like I was waiting for that to happen but overall a good first introduction to DCI Calvert. I can imagine this would suit any fan of a British Police procedural thriller.
Thanks to the author and @lovebookstours for the gifted copy for review.
May 19, 2025
This is the first book I have read by this author and I was impressed.
Desperately silence is based around DI Paul Calvert who is on holiday in beautiful Scotland when a young girl goes missing. Calvert ends up heading up the case as there are no available detectives.
I felt that the first half of the book is quite slow paced but the author makes up for it with his brilliantly , descriptive writing and attention to detail. I also felt that some of the writing was quite repetitive but on a whole it was well written.
The story was quite dark with a light sprinkling of humour mainly from Calvert and the residents of the small Scottish village, I would have like it to be a bit darker but I think that is more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed this book and would really like to read the next instalment in the DI Calvert series as I would like to see what he gets up to in his next adventure.
Desperately silence is based around DI Paul Calvert who is on holiday in beautiful Scotland when a young girl goes missing. Calvert ends up heading up the case as there are no available detectives.
I felt that the first half of the book is quite slow paced but the author makes up for it with his brilliantly , descriptive writing and attention to detail. I also felt that some of the writing was quite repetitive but on a whole it was well written.
The story was quite dark with a light sprinkling of humour mainly from Calvert and the residents of the small Scottish village, I would have like it to be a bit darker but I think that is more of a personal preference.
I enjoyed this book and would really like to read the next instalment in the DI Calvert series as I would like to see what he gets up to in his next adventure.
May 20, 2025
DI Paul Calvert heads off to Scotland on a holiday with intentions of filling his time with walking and whisky drinking. When a young girl goes missing from the village he naturally volunteers to help and inadvertently finds himself being appointed as Senior Investigating Officer.
I really liked this story mainly because of Paul as a character. He seems likeable, genuine, hardworking and determined to find the missing girl. I enjoyed his interactions with his colleagues and the villagers.
This book felt like more of a cosy crime than a crime thriller. There's more talk of beer and whisky than there is of forensic evidence (which is not a bad thing!). I saw another review compare it to Midsomer Murders and I'd say it is definitely a similar sort of vibe.
I whizzed through this book really quickly. I would love to read more of this series and wonder if DI Calvert will ever get his relaxing holiday?
Read and reviewed for @lovebookstours
I really liked this story mainly because of Paul as a character. He seems likeable, genuine, hardworking and determined to find the missing girl. I enjoyed his interactions with his colleagues and the villagers.
This book felt like more of a cosy crime than a crime thriller. There's more talk of beer and whisky than there is of forensic evidence (which is not a bad thing!). I saw another review compare it to Midsomer Murders and I'd say it is definitely a similar sort of vibe.
I whizzed through this book really quickly. I would love to read more of this series and wonder if DI Calvert will ever get his relaxing holiday?
Read and reviewed for @lovebookstours
May 21, 2025
This book opens up with every parent’s worst nightmare… their child going missing. I was instantly hooked from the prologue and wanted to know what had happened to Hayley!
When DI Calvert plans for a nice relaxing stay in Scotland, he ends up in the right place at the right time… or the wrong place, at the wrong time? You can decided that one!
I found this book had a nice, steady pace and kept me engaged right through. It wasn’t as brutal and gory and the crime thrillers I’m used to, however, I still found it really entertaining. If you like a more sensitive crime fiction then this one is perfect for you!
The characters within the book were all very likeable - a great bunch of characters!
I like how the book ended, it was all wrapped up nicely with a little bow on top.
Im looking forward to reading more by this author in the future and would definitely like to continue this series.
When DI Calvert plans for a nice relaxing stay in Scotland, he ends up in the right place at the right time… or the wrong place, at the wrong time? You can decided that one!
I found this book had a nice, steady pace and kept me engaged right through. It wasn’t as brutal and gory and the crime thrillers I’m used to, however, I still found it really entertaining. If you like a more sensitive crime fiction then this one is perfect for you!
The characters within the book were all very likeable - a great bunch of characters!
I like how the book ended, it was all wrapped up nicely with a little bow on top.
Im looking forward to reading more by this author in the future and would definitely like to continue this series.
May 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Kelvedie; where is that? It's a small place in Argyll, Scotland -
Thank you @markpettinger1 and @lovebooktours for my copy of the first book in the DI Calvert series. 🤍
#Ad #GiftedBook #FreeBookReview
A really fast paced crime fiction book! This had me saying one more chapter... I just needed to know what was going to happen!
Paul Calvert takes some time out from his busy life as a DI and ends up being pulled into the investigation of a missing girl as leading SIO. Calvert will not stop until Florence and Hayley are found, he meets some lovely locals along the way and one local that you find yourself being suspicious of! This is quite funny read at times which is unusual for a crime book. Give this a read if you like a fast paced easy to follow page turner. I'm looking forward to book 2 already! 🤍
- Kelvedie; where is that? It's a small place in Argyll, Scotland -
Thank you @markpettinger1 and @lovebooktours for my copy of the first book in the DI Calvert series. 🤍
#Ad #GiftedBook #FreeBookReview
A really fast paced crime fiction book! This had me saying one more chapter... I just needed to know what was going to happen!
Paul Calvert takes some time out from his busy life as a DI and ends up being pulled into the investigation of a missing girl as leading SIO. Calvert will not stop until Florence and Hayley are found, he meets some lovely locals along the way and one local that you find yourself being suspicious of! This is quite funny read at times which is unusual for a crime book. Give this a read if you like a fast paced easy to follow page turner. I'm looking forward to book 2 already! 🤍
May 18, 2025
Losing one child is a parents nightmare but to lose two, ten years apart, is unimaginable.
This is the first book in the DI Calvert series and it is brilliant!!
DI Calvert is meant to be on holiday and the way he's written, and the way his surroundings are described, you're right there with him. The banter between him and the locals is good fun and adds another dimension to what could be dark and harrowing.
I'm not sure if Calvert is unlucky or whether he's exactly where he needs to be when events unfold. The officers around him don't seem to have much luck. However, their misfortune is Aileen and Callum's luck.
I liked that this has a slow evening pace as Calvert works the case and nothing is obvious. It wasn't predictable and keeps you interested throughout.
This is the first book in the DI Calvert series and it is brilliant!!
DI Calvert is meant to be on holiday and the way he's written, and the way his surroundings are described, you're right there with him. The banter between him and the locals is good fun and adds another dimension to what could be dark and harrowing.
I'm not sure if Calvert is unlucky or whether he's exactly where he needs to be when events unfold. The officers around him don't seem to have much luck. However, their misfortune is Aileen and Callum's luck.
I liked that this has a slow evening pace as Calvert works the case and nothing is obvious. It wasn't predictable and keeps you interested throughout.
May 22, 2025
I do enjoy a crime series and this 1st book in the DI Calvert series was good.
This book is set in Scotland and used some Scottish slang which was.fun trying to picture the accents of character's.
DI Calvert takes a break away from his hometown of Hull and travels to a small village in Scotland. Whilst there he gets involved in a search party for a missing 9 year old girl.
The police force there is small and Calvert is asked to step in as temporary SIO in the case.
It was good to see Calvert step up and get results and it was nice to see him respected by the other officers and them all working together.
I am looking forward to reading book 2 to see what DI Calvert gets up to next.
This book is set in Scotland and used some Scottish slang which was.fun trying to picture the accents of character's.
DI Calvert takes a break away from his hometown of Hull and travels to a small village in Scotland. Whilst there he gets involved in a search party for a missing 9 year old girl.
The police force there is small and Calvert is asked to step in as temporary SIO in the case.
It was good to see Calvert step up and get results and it was nice to see him respected by the other officers and them all working together.
I am looking forward to reading book 2 to see what DI Calvert gets up to next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2025
The plot of the book is based around DI Calvert, a detective from Hull who is away on holiday in Scotland and ends up getting involved in the disappearance of a young girl, Florence, who’s sister Hayley has also previously disappeared. Florence reappears after days of being missing and only speaks one word, her sister’s name!
It is a crime book with a midsummer murders type vibe, set in a small Scottish village. The story is focused very much on the details of the police investigation for the missing girls, which I found interesting and different to other mystery books.
This book is of a slow pace and the writing is very detailed (sometimes a little too much for me).
I liked Paul Calvert, he is a matter of fact, warm and gentle character and I would be interested to read another book from this author in from the same series.
It is a crime book with a midsummer murders type vibe, set in a small Scottish village. The story is focused very much on the details of the police investigation for the missing girls, which I found interesting and different to other mystery books.
This book is of a slow pace and the writing is very detailed (sometimes a little too much for me).
I liked Paul Calvert, he is a matter of fact, warm and gentle character and I would be interested to read another book from this author in from the same series.
May 26, 2025
This is a chilling thriller with crime vibes that dives into the emotional fallout of missing children cases. It’s set at Scottish Highlands woth focus in a small cillage where detective Calvert decides to have a week of holiday.
This book is dark and atmospheric and follows a case of two missing girls around the same age but not only. They are long buried secrets that are keeping the reader to want to read more.
If you enjoy reading psychological crime/thriller books with slow-burn suspense and powerful work and jump into the investigation as the only senior detective with aim to find what really happened.
It started slow but it picked up after the half of the story. I did enjoy it. 😊
This book is dark and atmospheric and follows a case of two missing girls around the same age but not only. They are long buried secrets that are keeping the reader to want to read more.
If you enjoy reading psychological crime/thriller books with slow-burn suspense and powerful work and jump into the investigation as the only senior detective with aim to find what really happened.
It started slow but it picked up after the half of the story. I did enjoy it. 😊
May 20, 2025
Book one in the new DI Calvert series, desperate silence kicks the series off with a bang. When a nine year-old goes missing, vacationing DI Calvert steps in to help. Is there a link to the disappearance of another nine-year-old from the same family 10 years previously? From get-go, this book had my full and undivided attention. The story is pacy and gripping. DI Calvert is a great character. Recently widowed, he just needed some R&R, but he stepped in to help. He’s very personable and has a unique take on how he views crimes. The story was well written and wrought with emotion. I can’t wait to read more of DI Calvert’s stories.
May 5, 2025
A parents worst nightmare - their 9 year old goes missing in a small town. The family has the same tragedy happen 10 years ago when their other 9 year old went missing and was never found. The town turns out to search and a DI on vacation steps in to help.
I’m glad this is the beginning of a series because I enjoyed meeting DI Paul Calvert. He is a wonderful inspector and has a unique way of looking at cases. He brought his big town expertise to this small town crime. He has an excellent record for recovering missing people and I hope future books will focus on this aspect of his career.
I’m glad this is the beginning of a series because I enjoyed meeting DI Paul Calvert. He is a wonderful inspector and has a unique way of looking at cases. He brought his big town expertise to this small town crime. He has an excellent record for recovering missing people and I hope future books will focus on this aspect of his career.
May 18, 2025
This is a fast paced thriller which had me gripped right from the start. I can’t imagine how horrific it must be to have a young child taken from you so I was really emotionally invested in DI Calvert’s efforts to return Florence to her family. DI Calvert is a likeable main character - recently widowed, father of two, workaholic who gets caught up in a missing person case whilst on holiday. There was a slight edge of humour to his character which I quite enjoyed. Overall - this is a good crime novel, an easy to read thriller. I would recommend it to fans of detective led crime stories.
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May 22, 2025Desperate silence review
This is a 1st book is the DI Calvert series, I love that it was set in rural Scotland 🏴 and it was such a clever story with an amazing plot without giving too much away a tragedy repeats itself … DI Calvert was such a likeable character with old school traits which I loved! I love how he brought his experience from his home town to this location and case in his unique style.
This definitely had me invested and turning the pages for hours a great debut to the series and I would highly recommend and look forward to the rest of the series.
This is a 1st book is the DI Calvert series, I love that it was set in rural Scotland 🏴 and it was such a clever story with an amazing plot without giving too much away a tragedy repeats itself … DI Calvert was such a likeable character with old school traits which I loved! I love how he brought his experience from his home town to this location and case in his unique style.
This definitely had me invested and turning the pages for hours a great debut to the series and I would highly recommend and look forward to the rest of the series.
April 28, 2025
I know I have said this a lot, but what a book. What started off as a standard crime thriller quickly blew up into something much bigger. I did, however, laugh a few times at the sheer bad luck of the police for that area from broken ankles to dvt.
I highly recommend this if you want a quick read that will keep you interested in the book. I definitely wasn't expecting half of what I read and was a little worried when I thought all.l was resolved but still had about 30% of the book left.
I highly recommend this if you want a quick read that will keep you interested in the book. I definitely wasn't expecting half of what I read and was a little worried when I thought all.l was resolved but still had about 30% of the book left.
May 6, 2025
This was a brilliant start to a new series. I love crime so this was right up my alley. The pacing was just right. It is action-packed and will hold your attention from page one. The plot was amazing. Two missing girls from the same family, oh my! DI Calvert is such a likable character. He does things old school and I love that. This book also really makes me want to go to Scotland even more. If you are looking for a new crime fiction series this is definitely for you.
May 9, 2025
A gripping read right from the off with the disappearance of a child in the first few pages.
A crime fiction book covering a dark subject matter but what is also woven in is some lighthearted humour that add a cheerful note within the story.
Di Paul Calvert is the type of officer that appeals, a no nonsense Yorkshire man, with his own personal grief to deal with.
An easy read that is hard to put down.
I look forward to reading more from this series
A crime fiction book covering a dark subject matter but what is also woven in is some lighthearted humour that add a cheerful note within the story.
Di Paul Calvert is the type of officer that appeals, a no nonsense Yorkshire man, with his own personal grief to deal with.
An easy read that is hard to put down.
I look forward to reading more from this series
May 24, 2025
This story gripped me from the first page! DI Calvert is a likeable character and the story line in general really intrigued me. I felt this was a great paced book with great descriptions and had me wanting to know what happens next. I’d have liked DI Calvert’s character to have been developed more but hoping that’ll happen in future books! This is every parent’s worst nightmare, not only having one missing child but two! I really enjoyed this and looking forward to more books by Mark!
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October 16, 2025This book was so well-written, and I could really see myself getting into other books by this author. The DI is a personable chap who seems kind and capable, and his approach to crime-solving was very easy-to-follow.
I often try to avoid reading blurbs, but the nature of book tours means that I'd read this one, and sadly, there was very little of the book that wasn't mentioned in it. I'd recommend going into it blind if you fancy a gentle crime thriller in a sleepy town!
I often try to avoid reading blurbs, but the nature of book tours means that I'd read this one, and sadly, there was very little of the book that wasn't mentioned in it. I'd recommend going into it blind if you fancy a gentle crime thriller in a sleepy town!
May 22, 2025
Desperate Silence!
This book was close to home with 9yos going missing years apart!
A great detective story with two missing persons and a detective on holiday in a beautifully described area of the world. I loved the character development and the involvement of the community. Great new detective series!
I think the cover is great too!
This book was close to home with 9yos going missing years apart!
A great detective story with two missing persons and a detective on holiday in a beautifully described area of the world. I loved the character development and the involvement of the community. Great new detective series!
I think the cover is great too!
May 21, 2025
I’m a big fan of this book! I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.
This is the first book in the DI Calvert series and I can’t wait to read more from Mark Pettinger.
The story which is set in Scotland is told through multiple POVs, the main one being DI Paul Calvert, a very well written character. The whole time I was reading, I was questioning everyone!
It’s a fast paced thriller with a crime element that keeps you on your toes from start to finish.
I highly recommend this to anyone who likes a psychological, crime fiction thriller.
Overall, I give this 4 stars!
This is the first book in the DI Calvert series and I can’t wait to read more from Mark Pettinger.
The story which is set in Scotland is told through multiple POVs, the main one being DI Paul Calvert, a very well written character. The whole time I was reading, I was questioning everyone!
It’s a fast paced thriller with a crime element that keeps you on your toes from start to finish.
I highly recommend this to anyone who likes a psychological, crime fiction thriller.
Overall, I give this 4 stars!
May 26, 2025
I loved this book! I need to start by saying that I really enjoyed meeting a main character of a police officer who was actually away from his ‘workplace’. Whilst there was one brief mention of his work partner it was solely focused on DI Paul Calvert on his ‘holiday’. I just thought it was a really nice way to be introduced him.
I liked Paul as a main character, he is still grieving for the loss of his wife and the trip away was supposed to be a break away for him to do some walking etc however, the disappearance of a 9 year old girl and the unfortunate accident of the local police officer in charge as well as some poorly booked annual leave at the station lead to Paul being SIO in charge.
As I was reading the book, I was convinced that the coincidence between the Findlay’s other daughter going missing at the same age was not a coincidence and there was definitely more to this than it appeared. When Florence was found and simply said the word ‘Hayley’ it got my mind racing with what she meant and what avenues this could go down. I thought it was brilliant. I’m really looking forward to reading book two to hear some more from DI Calvert.
I liked Paul as a main character, he is still grieving for the loss of his wife and the trip away was supposed to be a break away for him to do some walking etc however, the disappearance of a 9 year old girl and the unfortunate accident of the local police officer in charge as well as some poorly booked annual leave at the station lead to Paul being SIO in charge.
As I was reading the book, I was convinced that the coincidence between the Findlay’s other daughter going missing at the same age was not a coincidence and there was definitely more to this than it appeared. When Florence was found and simply said the word ‘Hayley’ it got my mind racing with what she meant and what avenues this could go down. I thought it was brilliant. I’m really looking forward to reading book two to hear some more from DI Calvert.
July 9, 2025
DI Paul Calvert is on a well earned break in Scotland, having been recently widowed he is looking to get some R&R. However, when a 9yr old girl, Florence, goes missing from the small fishing village he's visiting he can't help but get involved. Initially he is just a participant in the search but due to unforeseen circumstances he ends up being the acting SIO in Florence's disappearance. He treats it as he would any other missing person report that is until he discovers that this is not the first child that has disappeared from this family. In fact 10yrs ago the girl's sister, Hayley, also disappeared and was never found. He doesn't believe in coincidences and begins to look closer to home for the answers.
This is a story that gripped me from the start, a great police procedural. We are introduced to DI Calvert who is an old school cop with years of experience and it's clear he will give his all when working a case. He's a very likeable character and adds a good sprinkle of humour despite dealing with hard topics. The story moved at a good pace keeping me engaged and I read it in two sittings. The setting was of particular interest to me as I have visited that general area many times, I could really envision the fictional village the author was describing. In fact the part in the story about the B&B key has actually happened to me and I ended up losing the key, IYKYK. I am excited to get my teeth into a new series and Iook forward to seeing what DI Calvert gets up to next, wherever that may
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