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The Pembroke Castle Murders: A gripping crime thriller full of twists.
Dark secrets can only be buried for so long….
When Reverend Marcel Owen, a revered local church leader, is brutally murdered in his own church sacristy, DI Caren Waits finds her world spiralling into chaos. As she races to uncover the truth behind the shocking crime, she must also navigate the turmoil in her personal life.
Delving into Marcel’s life, Caren uncovers a complex tapestry of ambition, community service, and hidden rivalries. The investigation exposes deep-seated family disputes over a substantial inheritance, simmering jealousy among church colleagues, and long-cherished grievances within the congregation.
Just as she believes she is getting closer to the truth, a second murder disrupts her progress, intertwining the destinies of both victims and heightening the stakes of her quest for justice. Caren is forced to confront her own insecurities and the haunting shadows of her past.
If you love fast-paced crime thrillers with a determined female detective, The Pembroke Castle Murders will keep you hooked until the final page.
This is the fourth novel in the DI Caren Waits series. Perfect for fans of Simon McCleave, Rhys Dylan and Rachel McLean.
Pick up your copy today by clicking the BUY NOW button at the top of this page!
When Reverend Marcel Owen, a revered local church leader, is brutally murdered in his own church sacristy, DI Caren Waits finds her world spiralling into chaos. As she races to uncover the truth behind the shocking crime, she must also navigate the turmoil in her personal life.
Delving into Marcel’s life, Caren uncovers a complex tapestry of ambition, community service, and hidden rivalries. The investigation exposes deep-seated family disputes over a substantial inheritance, simmering jealousy among church colleagues, and long-cherished grievances within the congregation.
Just as she believes she is getting closer to the truth, a second murder disrupts her progress, intertwining the destinies of both victims and heightening the stakes of her quest for justice. Caren is forced to confront her own insecurities and the haunting shadows of her past.
If you love fast-paced crime thrillers with a determined female detective, The Pembroke Castle Murders will keep you hooked until the final page.
This is the fourth novel in the DI Caren Waits series. Perfect for fans of Simon McCleave, Rhys Dylan and Rachel McLean.
Pick up your copy today by clicking the BUY NOW button at the top of this page!
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2025
112 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Puleston
50 books298 followersI write mysteries and thrillers.
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 6, 2025
The Pembroke Castle Murders - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
DI Caren Waits is SIO in a local murder at the start of Stephen Puleston's The Pembroke Castle Murders.
Before long, more murders occur and there are several likely suspects.
I enjoyed the way Caren and her team get to grips with whittling out the innocent from the not so, while the believable scenarios, (including several from Caren's home life) nuance the reader's emotions, in the lead-up to an action-packed ending.
The Pembroke Castle Murders will entertain you and make you keen to read the rest of the series.
Why not get a copy today!
DI Caren Waits is SIO in a local murder at the start of Stephen Puleston's The Pembroke Castle Murders.
Before long, more murders occur and there are several likely suspects.
I enjoyed the way Caren and her team get to grips with whittling out the innocent from the not so, while the believable scenarios, (including several from Caren's home life) nuance the reader's emotions, in the lead-up to an action-packed ending.
The Pembroke Castle Murders will entertain you and make you keen to read the rest of the series.
Why not get a copy today!
October 30, 2025
D.I.Caren Waits relocated to Wales since the death of her husband, and it has given her a new chapter in her life for her and her son. The only problem she has is that her late husband had an affair, and the woman had a child and is trying to claim money out of his estate, as she says he was supporting her and her daughter. Caren thought she knew her husband, but it turns out she does not, and the worst of all, her parents did not think too much of him either, but love intervened.
Caren's father has been ill, and she has had to employ a nanny for Aled, her 6-year-old, as her parents, who normally take him on, have been helping Caren out when she needs it, but can't at the moment.
Caren has been called to a brutal murder of a Reverend Marcel Owen, the local curch vicar. What and why did this occur, and in his own sacristy?
Digging into Owen's life uncovers family disputes, jealousy, and also among the church leaders.
Just as Caren thinks she has worked it out, another murder. Is it the same person doing both or two killers?
Caren has her work cut out, and with her ongoing problem with the other woman, what will she do?
The story is well-paced, well-written, and I have read a lot of this author's work, and his books are very different from each other, which is what one wants, not a repeat of a repeat ex cetra which, alas, can happen with many authors.
I do like the style of writing from Stephen Puleston, and the description of the area can only mean one thing: the author is from there.
I would like to thank him for an ARC copy to read, and this has no way swayed me from my review.
Caren's father has been ill, and she has had to employ a nanny for Aled, her 6-year-old, as her parents, who normally take him on, have been helping Caren out when she needs it, but can't at the moment.
Caren has been called to a brutal murder of a Reverend Marcel Owen, the local curch vicar. What and why did this occur, and in his own sacristy?
Digging into Owen's life uncovers family disputes, jealousy, and also among the church leaders.
Just as Caren thinks she has worked it out, another murder. Is it the same person doing both or two killers?
Caren has her work cut out, and with her ongoing problem with the other woman, what will she do?
The story is well-paced, well-written, and I have read a lot of this author's work, and his books are very different from each other, which is what one wants, not a repeat of a repeat ex cetra which, alas, can happen with many authors.
I do like the style of writing from Stephen Puleston, and the description of the area can only mean one thing: the author is from there.
I would like to thank him for an ARC copy to read, and this has no way swayed me from my review.
November 28, 2025
Really kept me guessing🤓
4.5🌟
A great amount of unpredictability with a number of strong suspects right through and past the first two thirds of the book. The police investigative team is relentless in their search for the killer and swamped with lines of inquiry: a lot for their small team of four. And the surprises just kept coming. Totally immersive mystery and Caren's domestic dilemmas, from caring for her son, settling her husband's estate, to pursuing a new romantic relationship and strengthening her friendship with Susan were, for me anyway, just the right touch to give her substance but not detract from the investigation. I am also a big fan of shorter chapters that keep drawing me forward and the author uses that technique to great effect. No lulls, great teamwork, a bit of danger and some satisfying developments in Caren's personal life made this a really good read.
I wouldn't mind learning more about Alice, Huw and Rhys (the members of her team) in future additions to the series.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4.5🌟
A great amount of unpredictability with a number of strong suspects right through and past the first two thirds of the book. The police investigative team is relentless in their search for the killer and swamped with lines of inquiry: a lot for their small team of four. And the surprises just kept coming. Totally immersive mystery and Caren's domestic dilemmas, from caring for her son, settling her husband's estate, to pursuing a new romantic relationship and strengthening her friendship with Susan were, for me anyway, just the right touch to give her substance but not detract from the investigation. I am also a big fan of shorter chapters that keep drawing me forward and the author uses that technique to great effect. No lulls, great teamwork, a bit of danger and some satisfying developments in Caren's personal life made this a really good read.
I wouldn't mind learning more about Alice, Huw and Rhys (the members of her team) in future additions to the series.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
November 2, 2025
Detective Inspector Caren Waits and her team are looking for the murderer of a parish priest and there are several suspects. As the story unfolds there are other murders related to the same suspects. Red herrings make the story interesting and the identity of the killer was surprising.
Minor complaints: Occasionally one character will say something similar to something another character has already said, and a couple of characters are repeatedly referred to by their first and last names, which is not needed.
There are developments in Caren’s personal life but they do not distract from the main story. The relationships between Caren and her work colleagues and supervisor have grown stronger with each addition to the series; this is the fourth book. I enjoyed the descriptions of places where Caren and her team go as their investigation continues. This book works as a standalone but I suggest starting the series at the beginning. My thanks to author Stephen Puleston for an advance review copy of “The Pembroke Castle Murders”. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Minor complaints: Occasionally one character will say something similar to something another character has already said, and a couple of characters are repeatedly referred to by their first and last names, which is not needed.
There are developments in Caren’s personal life but they do not distract from the main story. The relationships between Caren and her work colleagues and supervisor have grown stronger with each addition to the series; this is the fourth book. I enjoyed the descriptions of places where Caren and her team go as their investigation continues. This book works as a standalone but I suggest starting the series at the beginning. My thanks to author Stephen Puleston for an advance review copy of “The Pembroke Castle Murders”. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2025
Another brilliant addition to this excellent series.
Number 4 and Caren is now fully ensconced in her role.
An engrossing main plot, starting with the murder of Reverend Marcel Owen. As the investigation progresses there’s certainly some very ungodly feelings and folk in this Godly community!
As the action continues we, and Caren and her team, are presented with many possible suspects, with varying motives, and led down many a blind alley.
The perpetrator is as unexpected as his motive, when he is finally unveiled, and boy does he go to some lengths to try to achieve it!
The subplot continues to deal with Caren’s tangled past and we leave her with the promise of a much more settled future.
This works perfectly as a standalone read, but to enjoy it all the more I urge you to start at the beginning of the series and I envy you the binge read.
Number 4 and Caren is now fully ensconced in her role.
An engrossing main plot, starting with the murder of Reverend Marcel Owen. As the investigation progresses there’s certainly some very ungodly feelings and folk in this Godly community!
As the action continues we, and Caren and her team, are presented with many possible suspects, with varying motives, and led down many a blind alley.
The perpetrator is as unexpected as his motive, when he is finally unveiled, and boy does he go to some lengths to try to achieve it!
The subplot continues to deal with Caren’s tangled past and we leave her with the promise of a much more settled future.
This works perfectly as a standalone read, but to enjoy it all the more I urge you to start at the beginning of the series and I envy you the binge read.
December 1, 2025
So many twists!
This series quickly became one of my favorites. The author was already well established in Welsh police procedures with Inspector Drake but this series is every bit as good. I love the descriptions of the countryside. As the series progresses, we learn a little more about Caren and each of her team, both professionally and personally. This particular case has the team investigating the murder of a local priest in the sacristy of one of his churches. With very strange acting family, jealous clergy members, and a large inheritance can Caren and her team solve the murder of will there be more bodies? So many twists going on in this book!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
This series quickly became one of my favorites. The author was already well established in Welsh police procedures with Inspector Drake but this series is every bit as good. I love the descriptions of the countryside. As the series progresses, we learn a little more about Caren and each of her team, both professionally and personally. This particular case has the team investigating the murder of a local priest in the sacristy of one of his churches. With very strange acting family, jealous clergy members, and a large inheritance can Caren and her team solve the murder of will there be more bodies? So many twists going on in this book!
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
December 9, 2025
This is the fourth novel in the DI Caren Waits series. When her father is injured and her mother is busy caring for him she decides to hire a nanny for Aled, her son. When a local perish priest is murdered Caren and her team r on the case. When 2 more quickly follow Caren is very busy and very happy she hired a live in nanny.
I really enjoyed this fast paced book. Unfortunately, I figured out quickly
who dunnit. It was still interesting to see all the pieces fall into place. I love how well the team has been working together. I really love this author. I highly recommend this book, series and author.
I really enjoyed this fast paced book. Unfortunately, I figured out quickly
who dunnit. It was still interesting to see all the pieces fall into place. I love how well the team has been working together. I really love this author. I highly recommend this book, series and author.
November 9, 2025
Thrilling!
DI Caren Waits and her team have a frustrating time, following leads and evidence. I enjoy being on the journey, with the team, as they develop strategies and pursue suspects.
In Caren's personal life, I'm frustrated that, as a detective, she didn't do a deep dive into Miss Hale, to unfold her apparent relationship with Caren's late husband. I'd need to check the authenticity of her claims and that it wasn't an unfortunate, one-off encounter, resulting in a child. I'd want to know everything, the good, the bad and the ugly!
I'm well and truly hooked on this series!
DI Caren Waits and her team have a frustrating time, following leads and evidence. I enjoy being on the journey, with the team, as they develop strategies and pursue suspects.
In Caren's personal life, I'm frustrated that, as a detective, she didn't do a deep dive into Miss Hale, to unfold her apparent relationship with Caren's late husband. I'd need to check the authenticity of her claims and that it wasn't an unfortunate, one-off encounter, resulting in a child. I'd want to know everything, the good, the bad and the ugly!
I'm well and truly hooked on this series!
October 22, 2025
Another fascinating addition to a series with DI Caren Waits. Caren is learning to trust her great team. Her team does an excellent job helping to investigate the murders. This was a very involved investigation with a surprising ending. Also, Caren had a lot of continuing personal issues tied up. I've read every one of the author's books and can't wait for the next one in the series.
October 24, 2025
An excellent investigative crime thriller with a well written plot and a good cast of characters. DI Caren Waits tries to solve criminal cases while dealing with her home life. The story contains many suspects with different motives and is full of twists/turns. A page turning read that I highly recommend. Keep the DI Caren Waits adventures coming.
November 20, 2025
Another great novel in the series. Rev Marcel Owens is murdered, and DI Caren Waits investigates. The death of her husband reveals he had an affair with a child. This creates problems for the estate as the other woman is claiming some is hers. During the investigation another murder occurs. This is a fast paced crime thriller.
January 8, 2026
Wonderful read
Like all Stephen's books it was an easy read. One not to put down. Love Carens new team ,they work well together.
I love the way Stephen's love of the Welsh language has become part of the stories.
When is someone going to recognise that his books deserve to be filmed?
Keep it up Stephen. I look forward to the next Caren Waits book.
Like all Stephen's books it was an easy read. One not to put down. Love Carens new team ,they work well together.
I love the way Stephen's love of the Welsh language has become part of the stories.
When is someone going to recognise that his books deserve to be filmed?
Keep it up Stephen. I look forward to the next Caren Waits book.
November 20, 2025
The only thing you get from a master, is a master piece of writing and story that backs it up. I really enjoy the books by Stephen Puleston.
November 20, 2025
Plenty of interest in this story's plot, some tangles and misdirection for readers to enjoy.
Well worth a read if you like police procedurals. And if you enjoy Welsh names that will be a bonus.
Well worth a read if you like police procedurals. And if you enjoy Welsh names that will be a bonus.
November 20, 2025
The Pembroke Castle Murders. When a clergyman is murdered, Caren and the team search out the clues from the red herrings. A well crafted and intriguing mystery, the latest in the series.
November 21, 2025
Another great story from Stephen. I really enjoyed this story. Well worth a read. Highly reccommended.
November 21, 2025
A thriller with a clever plot.This is the fourth book to feature DI Caren Waits. She has settled in to her new role in the Western Division of Wales Police. Normally, her parents help widowed Caren with caring for her 5 years old sone, particularly when she is involved in a major case. However,as her father has had to have major surgery, she has employed a live-in nanny. All this is suddenly disrupted when the Reverend Marcus Owen is found brutally murdered in the sacristy of his church.
Caren is beginning to make headway when there's a second murder and then a third. All victims are involved with the inheritance of the sizable estate of Marcus's late aunt.
Simon Pulesto has presented us with a fastmoving thriller with just the right balance, for me at least, between the cases and the private lives of Karen and her team. He deals very sympathetically with the difficulties encountered by a widowed woman working in a demanding job and raising a young child.
Caren is beginning to make headway when there's a second murder and then a third. All victims are involved with the inheritance of the sizable estate of Marcus's late aunt.
Simon Pulesto has presented us with a fastmoving thriller with just the right balance, for me at least, between the cases and the private lives of Karen and her team. He deals very sympathetically with the difficulties encountered by a widowed woman working in a demanding job and raising a young child.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews