What do you think?
Rate this book
The Yorkshire Murders #7
The York Minster Killings
Did you think this was the end? Think again…
A desperate father…
Graham Blanks is having a very bad day. With his daughter’s life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he’s beginning to lose his patience…
An escalation of violence…
As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
A final reckoning.
DI Paul Riddick is a man who understands a father’s desperation all too well. He knows Blanks has to be apprehended, but only newly recovered from illness himself, Riddick is struggling. Will he be able to stop Blanks in time — or will his deadly spree spiral even further out of control?
In the shadow of York Minster, the fate of many lies in the hands of two men with nothing left to lose and time running out...
A desperate father…
Graham Blanks is having a very bad day. With his daughter’s life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he’s beginning to lose his patience…
An escalation of violence…
As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
A final reckoning.
DI Paul Riddick is a man who understands a father’s desperation all too well. He knows Blanks has to be apprehended, but only newly recovered from illness himself, Riddick is struggling. Will he be able to stop Blanks in time — or will his deadly spree spiral even further out of control?
In the shadow of York Minster, the fate of many lies in the hands of two men with nothing left to lose and time running out...
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2026
About the author
Wes Markin
40 books280 followersBe sure to follow Wes on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/3tFWIHL
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Read
April 4, 20260.05 / 5.0
I’ll say this again, and again. This book CANNOT be read as a standalone. I don’t understand how I’m seeing reviews that rate this so highly whilst openly admitting they ain’t even read the series before.
I’ve followed this series since the very start, where we see DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick met for the first time, both two humans each with their own personal struggles and demons. Throughout the series we see how the two pair up, deal with their professional problems to personal. At points, as readers it’s easy to connect with these characters as their problems are relatable real life problems we all face in our life. The book felt genuine, it felt proper. And it’s also based in Yorkshire, my home town. But that all got thrown out in the previous book, and my previous review breaks down all the problems and issues.
Now I will just lay out the bare bones. I refuse to put a spoiler - because the reviews I’ve seen on this series openly admit that they haven’t even read the previous books before. I write honestly, and all books I’ve read (minus 1) has been my own opinion (I only get my books from the library) and I believe people truly have to understand how fraudulent some reviews are on this book. So I won’t put a spoiler because I see fake ass reviews as a disservice to those that actually do care about books, are invested in the series, are interested in other reviews and should know if the book is crap or not. I don’t have an issue with anyone writing a review, but when I can clearly see the review is based on one singular plot, extremely surface level, and not in relation to the whole series, the team dynamic, the personal relationships - I believe people deserve to know the type of author they are, and how fraudulent their marketing team is.
The main ones include:
A) The plot and story development across the series between Gardner and Riddick starts to separate and it gets to a point where they don’t even talk, don’t see each other, are not on great terms and not in the same location. The dynamic disintegrates which didn’t really make any sense for the characters. It was great at the start and went severely downhill
B) Half the team ended up being killed, we lost Lucy and Phil, so how do you even pick up the series again and try and build the story up when you’ve completely lost the team dynamic, the team, even the location. It’s all new, but the foundations are based on history and not any actual substance, so the superstructure will always fail
C) Riddick personal and health journey makes him look like superman lived 1000 years, longer than Robert Patterson in Twilight. The guy has seen his family killed in a car bomb, dodgy police mentor that ended up being a pedophile, killed an enemy of his through a bribe in prison, just drank to his near death, ended doing heroin and doing drugs, got stabbed, had a heart infection then has a heart transplant.
Now how do you even pick up the series after Gardner just loses her shit, goes home and is radio silent. This book is bleak, depressing, and mostly sad. The plot in this book is very simple, it’s just one straight line. But to make it more fancy, the magical P word is shoved straight into this book, yes, that is politics is included. The best way I can describe this book, is like harvesting a cow and trying to get pork out of it. Exactly, you can’t. I don’t understand how you can kill half the team, and have some of the team remaining not even included in this book, sorry but what happened to Ray? What happened to the team after the events? For some reason, Riddick was already not in Harrogate area but he magically now works in york. We get no context, and now we only get to see Riddick and the return of Emma’s old boss Michael Yorke. which again doesn’t have a lot of appearances across the series. As readers who read from the start, there are ALOT of unanswered questions, and hard truths we have to accept, and with no mention and complete removal of the remaining team from the plot - it truly makes you question why killing half the team was even worth it? I’ll say it again as I said in the previous book, it makes no sense. There is no direction in this plot or series. Why would it make sense to bring another book in, if there’s already a challenge trying to move forward from past events.
The reason why this book feels weird is that as a reader who has read the book from the start, Riddicks’ character ended up being in the background whilst Gardner’s cases was at the forefront. Now Gardner is hardly mentioned, like a back up dancer. So it’s really weird now seeing Riddick have all this attention and limelight, and it’s still almost like the same sob story again and again. Yes we see character development, but Markin is not shy to shove as many sob stories again and again. We get it, when can we see this guy happy. It’s like he’s cursed and everyone that interacts with him either gets severely injured, injured at work or killed off. Just when you think he’s making progress, his next ‘colleague’ is nearly killed, sustained brain trauma and is trying to relearn the basic principals of human function.
The plot is straight up just dog shit. It’s just a simple plot wrapped up, but everyone meats an unfortunate end. There is no happy story. There is no small win. There is no positive. It’s depressing, it’s political but also just a bunch of frustrations shoved in a book. What do you mean you start of trying to track a head gangster and it turns into a man just running rampage in York. Then at the end, the gangster is just arrested no problem. Its just poor writing, and reading all the other reviews it’s clear than the only thing that matter is positive nice reviews. But the same issues from the previous book is occurring again and again. Does the author not think about the actual characters, the plot direction, the audiences opinions? Gardner is mentioned but out of all the pages probably less than 10 pages. It’s abysmal writing.
I can see there is a next book lined up, and near the end you can see that Markin is tryna prepare you for the next one, but there’s just context severely missing and that comes across as poor quality and lazy writing. Almost like you didn’t know how to end it. And honestly throughout the book, its like background context is missing. It’s like we are expected to accept the actions/plot/directions/character emotions without actually understand why. It feels like the book is going 10 times slower than there movie so it feels like there’s a lag.
In all history of books I’ve ever read in my life, I’ve never seen a shitter series. Ok maybe Game of thrones ending is up there, but this is like a fall from grace. The series is going downhill and honestly I won’t be surprised if it’s a shitshow for the next series.
But hey,I can’t be all negative right - there are some positives. I guess the good side is we actually have events occurring without Yorkshire, not like how the previous book made it so international with a fraud case, Yorkshire was made to look like it never existed.
Overall, what I’ve learnt: some authors just want to get the bag and finish their contractual obligation, so they write a banger of a first book, get people hyped about it then continuously fail them, disappoint them by writing shit and selling it. That’s it. And you’re probably reading this thinking, why bother reading? Why waste time? And the honest answer is the positive hope inside me that the series would turn back to a banger, the series would ramp back up. But clearly it isn’t and won’t be. So yes folks, don’t pick up this series. Don’t read it. I’m only reading this book now just to see how far fetched the plot is.
I’ll say this again, and again. This book CANNOT be read as a standalone. I don’t understand how I’m seeing reviews that rate this so highly whilst openly admitting they ain’t even read the series before.
I’ve followed this series since the very start, where we see DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick met for the first time, both two humans each with their own personal struggles and demons. Throughout the series we see how the two pair up, deal with their professional problems to personal. At points, as readers it’s easy to connect with these characters as their problems are relatable real life problems we all face in our life. The book felt genuine, it felt proper. And it’s also based in Yorkshire, my home town. But that all got thrown out in the previous book, and my previous review breaks down all the problems and issues.
Now I will just lay out the bare bones. I refuse to put a spoiler - because the reviews I’ve seen on this series openly admit that they haven’t even read the previous books before. I write honestly, and all books I’ve read (minus 1) has been my own opinion (I only get my books from the library) and I believe people truly have to understand how fraudulent some reviews are on this book. So I won’t put a spoiler because I see fake ass reviews as a disservice to those that actually do care about books, are invested in the series, are interested in other reviews and should know if the book is crap or not. I don’t have an issue with anyone writing a review, but when I can clearly see the review is based on one singular plot, extremely surface level, and not in relation to the whole series, the team dynamic, the personal relationships - I believe people deserve to know the type of author they are, and how fraudulent their marketing team is.
The main ones include:
A) The plot and story development across the series between Gardner and Riddick starts to separate and it gets to a point where they don’t even talk, don’t see each other, are not on great terms and not in the same location. The dynamic disintegrates which didn’t really make any sense for the characters. It was great at the start and went severely downhill
B) Half the team ended up being killed, we lost Lucy and Phil, so how do you even pick up the series again and try and build the story up when you’ve completely lost the team dynamic, the team, even the location. It’s all new, but the foundations are based on history and not any actual substance, so the superstructure will always fail
C) Riddick personal and health journey makes him look like superman lived 1000 years, longer than Robert Patterson in Twilight. The guy has seen his family killed in a car bomb, dodgy police mentor that ended up being a pedophile, killed an enemy of his through a bribe in prison, just drank to his near death, ended doing heroin and doing drugs, got stabbed, had a heart infection then has a heart transplant.
Now how do you even pick up the series after Gardner just loses her shit, goes home and is radio silent. This book is bleak, depressing, and mostly sad. The plot in this book is very simple, it’s just one straight line. But to make it more fancy, the magical P word is shoved straight into this book, yes, that is politics is included. The best way I can describe this book, is like harvesting a cow and trying to get pork out of it. Exactly, you can’t. I don’t understand how you can kill half the team, and have some of the team remaining not even included in this book, sorry but what happened to Ray? What happened to the team after the events? For some reason, Riddick was already not in Harrogate area but he magically now works in york. We get no context, and now we only get to see Riddick and the return of Emma’s old boss Michael Yorke. which again doesn’t have a lot of appearances across the series. As readers who read from the start, there are ALOT of unanswered questions, and hard truths we have to accept, and with no mention and complete removal of the remaining team from the plot - it truly makes you question why killing half the team was even worth it? I’ll say it again as I said in the previous book, it makes no sense. There is no direction in this plot or series. Why would it make sense to bring another book in, if there’s already a challenge trying to move forward from past events.
The reason why this book feels weird is that as a reader who has read the book from the start, Riddicks’ character ended up being in the background whilst Gardner’s cases was at the forefront. Now Gardner is hardly mentioned, like a back up dancer. So it’s really weird now seeing Riddick have all this attention and limelight, and it’s still almost like the same sob story again and again. Yes we see character development, but Markin is not shy to shove as many sob stories again and again. We get it, when can we see this guy happy. It’s like he’s cursed and everyone that interacts with him either gets severely injured, injured at work or killed off. Just when you think he’s making progress, his next ‘colleague’ is nearly killed, sustained brain trauma and is trying to relearn the basic principals of human function.
The plot is straight up just dog shit. It’s just a simple plot wrapped up, but everyone meats an unfortunate end. There is no happy story. There is no small win. There is no positive. It’s depressing, it’s political but also just a bunch of frustrations shoved in a book. What do you mean you start of trying to track a head gangster and it turns into a man just running rampage in York. Then at the end, the gangster is just arrested no problem. Its just poor writing, and reading all the other reviews it’s clear than the only thing that matter is positive nice reviews. But the same issues from the previous book is occurring again and again. Does the author not think about the actual characters, the plot direction, the audiences opinions? Gardner is mentioned but out of all the pages probably less than 10 pages. It’s abysmal writing.
I can see there is a next book lined up, and near the end you can see that Markin is tryna prepare you for the next one, but there’s just context severely missing and that comes across as poor quality and lazy writing. Almost like you didn’t know how to end it. And honestly throughout the book, its like background context is missing. It’s like we are expected to accept the actions/plot/directions/character emotions without actually understand why. It feels like the book is going 10 times slower than there movie so it feels like there’s a lag.
In all history of books I’ve ever read in my life, I’ve never seen a shitter series. Ok maybe Game of thrones ending is up there, but this is like a fall from grace. The series is going downhill and honestly I won’t be surprised if it’s a shitshow for the next series.
But hey,I can’t be all negative right - there are some positives. I guess the good side is we actually have events occurring without Yorkshire, not like how the previous book made it so international with a fraud case, Yorkshire was made to look like it never existed.
Overall, what I’ve learnt: some authors just want to get the bag and finish their contractual obligation, so they write a banger of a first book, get people hyped about it then continuously fail them, disappoint them by writing shit and selling it. That’s it. And you’re probably reading this thinking, why bother reading? Why waste time? And the honest answer is the positive hope inside me that the series would turn back to a banger, the series would ramp back up. But clearly it isn’t and won’t be. So yes folks, don’t pick up this series. Don’t read it. I’m only reading this book now just to see how far fetched the plot is.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely captivating! Wes Markin delivers another perfectly executed lesson in gritty storytelling with the seventh instalment of his Yorkshire murder series.
In this powerful novel, we meet Graham Blinks, a man pushed to the brink by job loss and his daughter’s terminal illness.
As Graham’s desperation morphs into a chaotic, logic-defying rage against a failing society, the stakes reach a fever pitch.
DI Riddick, still reeling from his past, and his new partner, Laura, race to contain the fallout, leading to a profound realisation, the line between the hunter and the hunted is thinner than it seems.
Markin expertly balances high-octane tension with a heartbreaking exploration of despair and empathy. It’s a haunting, timely read that I'll be thinking about for a long time to come. With an ending that's tied up as neatly as a Mars Bar wrapped in strawberry laces, I can't wait for the next one. Salisbury here we come?
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.e
In this powerful novel, we meet Graham Blinks, a man pushed to the brink by job loss and his daughter’s terminal illness.
As Graham’s desperation morphs into a chaotic, logic-defying rage against a failing society, the stakes reach a fever pitch.
DI Riddick, still reeling from his past, and his new partner, Laura, race to contain the fallout, leading to a profound realisation, the line between the hunter and the hunted is thinner than it seems.
Markin expertly balances high-octane tension with a heartbreaking exploration of despair and empathy. It’s a haunting, timely read that I'll be thinking about for a long time to come. With an ending that's tied up as neatly as a Mars Bar wrapped in strawberry laces, I can't wait for the next one. Salisbury here we come?
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.e
February 18, 2026
This might be one of the most depressing books I've read in a very long time. There is absolutely no silver lining and no positive resolution to anything - except that Paul is still alive after getting a heart transplant. Emma Gardner is merely a peripheral storyline - she's disappeared - that mostly serves as a distraction to Paul's real issue, which is to find a desperate father before any more damage occurs. I honestly just wanted to finish this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the seventh book in a police series set in Yorkshire, but the first book by Wes Markin I have read. Clearly there is a significant back story to the main character, DI Paul Riddick, but this was handled well by the author within the plot and so it was easy to jump into the series at this point.
The story started painfully slowly. It took until about a third of the way through before I felt that things were starting to move. It is very much a character driven story and quite gritty and emotionally charged. This is not a story to make you feel good. Mental health issues and institutional failures form the basis of the plot. The book is, however, well-written and it was an interesting read.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
The story started painfully slowly. It took until about a third of the way through before I felt that things were starting to move. It is very much a character driven story and quite gritty and emotionally charged. This is not a story to make you feel good. Mental health issues and institutional failures form the basis of the plot. The book is, however, well-written and it was an interesting read.
I received a free review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for my honest and unedited review.
March 29, 2026
How great to revisit Paul Riddick and his stubborn self. I hadn’t expected this after book 6.
But where the previous book got under your skin because of Riddick and Gardner, this one breaks your heart because of the case it centers around. There’s a lot of room for the elaborate downfall of one character, and it’s very real and painful.
Absolutely loved it. Might be the best one yet.
But where the previous book got under your skin because of Riddick and Gardner, this one breaks your heart because of the case it centers around. There’s a lot of room for the elaborate downfall of one character, and it’s very real and painful.
Absolutely loved it. Might be the best one yet.
April 12, 2026
A Waste of Time & Money
I thought i was reading the next installment of the Yorkshire Murders. instead i wasted 3 hours reading over & over again the author’s views on the NHS, private medicine, capitalism, Tory MPs, and asylum seekers. WTF? as an author, have your views, i just wanted to read a good old detective novel that takes place on York. Instead it was page after page of political dreck. again as an author write what you like, but don’t bait & switch your readers. i wanted 3-4 hours away from life and reality, instead i may have been reading an opinion piece by Angela Rayner or the Greens. this is awful and really disappointing. i have read every one of Wes Markin’s books, but i’ll never pay for nor waste my time on another.
I thought i was reading the next installment of the Yorkshire Murders. instead i wasted 3 hours reading over & over again the author’s views on the NHS, private medicine, capitalism, Tory MPs, and asylum seekers. WTF? as an author, have your views, i just wanted to read a good old detective novel that takes place on York. Instead it was page after page of political dreck. again as an author write what you like, but don’t bait & switch your readers. i wanted 3-4 hours away from life and reality, instead i may have been reading an opinion piece by Angela Rayner or the Greens. this is awful and really disappointing. i have read every one of Wes Markin’s books, but i’ll never pay for nor waste my time on another.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the 7th book in this series and, although the main story is self contained, the man characters, especially DI Paul Riddick, are rather complex with interesting backstories so, if you want the very best from it, please do start at the beginning and read in order. They are all cracking books, so...
In this book we follow a father as he desperately tries to get help for his daughter. Graham Blanks is having a bit of a time of things as he has a clash in his diary. His daughter's medical appointment and his obligatory, miss it and your money is cut, appointment at the DSS. He's also running a fever and sick as a dog but no one will help him. His first challenge is when he sees a young mother getting harassed by a couple of youths with everyone else just walking on by. Not him, he gets stuck in, which puts him on the police's radar...
And then, well, things just escalate.
Riddick is supposed to be on light duties after coming back from shenanigans in previous books. He is definitely not supposed to be running round chasing a man on a mission. Which is what Blanks is as his escapades get more and more violent. But, having found out that Blanks is doing it for his daughter, he all too well understands that game and, whilst sympathising with him, understands that this has to stop. But with an eye on the best outcome he can manage...
I love this series. It isn't afraid to get stuck in with things that affect people all too much these days. This time it is the welfare state and the NHS which come into play. Both of which are pretty broken but if you get on the bad side of both at the same time, well, to be honest, I am not sure why this hasn't already been a thing in real life. Desperate people with nothing to lose...
It's a pretty emotional read, bit told in a very factual and succinct way without over glamorising the issues contained herein. Yes, it really IS that bad for some. And there are others who "could" help but only if it also "helped" them. Sorry state of affairs.
And it's great to see Riddick up and at 'em once again after all his woes. Although he probably shouldn't be gadding about so soon after surgery, but that's the way he is... And this case really hit home.
And then there's York, almost a character in itself. With all its architecture and history, and Vikings!
And an ending that makes me hanker for the next book all the more...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
In this book we follow a father as he desperately tries to get help for his daughter. Graham Blanks is having a bit of a time of things as he has a clash in his diary. His daughter's medical appointment and his obligatory, miss it and your money is cut, appointment at the DSS. He's also running a fever and sick as a dog but no one will help him. His first challenge is when he sees a young mother getting harassed by a couple of youths with everyone else just walking on by. Not him, he gets stuck in, which puts him on the police's radar...
And then, well, things just escalate.
Riddick is supposed to be on light duties after coming back from shenanigans in previous books. He is definitely not supposed to be running round chasing a man on a mission. Which is what Blanks is as his escapades get more and more violent. But, having found out that Blanks is doing it for his daughter, he all too well understands that game and, whilst sympathising with him, understands that this has to stop. But with an eye on the best outcome he can manage...
I love this series. It isn't afraid to get stuck in with things that affect people all too much these days. This time it is the welfare state and the NHS which come into play. Both of which are pretty broken but if you get on the bad side of both at the same time, well, to be honest, I am not sure why this hasn't already been a thing in real life. Desperate people with nothing to lose...
It's a pretty emotional read, bit told in a very factual and succinct way without over glamorising the issues contained herein. Yes, it really IS that bad for some. And there are others who "could" help but only if it also "helped" them. Sorry state of affairs.
And it's great to see Riddick up and at 'em once again after all his woes. Although he probably shouldn't be gadding about so soon after surgery, but that's the way he is... And this case really hit home.
And then there's York, almost a character in itself. With all its architecture and history, and Vikings!
And an ending that makes me hanker for the next book all the more...
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The story:
It has been over a year since DI Paul Riddick last saw or spoke to his former colleague DCI Emma Gardner. Trying to make the best of his new chance at life, he is now on deployment at York’s Intelligence Analysis Unit, currently working on an escalating string of robberies.
When a call comes in about a shoplifting incident during the annual Viking festival, it’s not strictly Riddick’s case. But something about the alleged perpetrator Graham Blank draws him in… And as Blank’s actions escalate, Riddick and new colleague DS Laura Frost find themselves in a race against time to stop the worst from happening…
My thoughts:
I’ve been reading Wes Markin's Yorkshire Murders series since the first book in 2022, and “The York Minster Killings” is now the seventh instalment!
This book transplants the action from Knaresborough to York, and is a bit different from the previous books in that we focus solely on DI Riddick, with his colleague and friend DCI Emma Gardner nowhere to be seen. Riddick has now lived with his heart transplant (and without Emma) for over a year, and is gradually getting used to his new life (although not enough to prevent him from running some dangerous risks in the name of his case!).
I missed the interaction between Riddick and Gardner, but he does have a new DS, Laura Frost, who turns out to be more similar to him than he first realises. The case itself is a pretty sad one, as we see Graham Blank going increasingly off the rails as he takes out his frustrations against the system. But what has pushed him to such terrible lengths? The answer makes Riddick, with his own tragic past, even more desperate to find him before it’s too late…
The author commented at the end of the book that he has thought book six would be the last in the series, but I’m glad it wasn’t! And it seems that book eight (now likely the end of the series) will focus on Emma, and her ongoing investigation into the shady businessman who she holds responsible for the death of her colleagues. So I’ll be watching this space for what should be a dangerous finale, and one that hopefully reunites Riddick and Gardner again!
It has been over a year since DI Paul Riddick last saw or spoke to his former colleague DCI Emma Gardner. Trying to make the best of his new chance at life, he is now on deployment at York’s Intelligence Analysis Unit, currently working on an escalating string of robberies.
When a call comes in about a shoplifting incident during the annual Viking festival, it’s not strictly Riddick’s case. But something about the alleged perpetrator Graham Blank draws him in… And as Blank’s actions escalate, Riddick and new colleague DS Laura Frost find themselves in a race against time to stop the worst from happening…
My thoughts:
I’ve been reading Wes Markin's Yorkshire Murders series since the first book in 2022, and “The York Minster Killings” is now the seventh instalment!
This book transplants the action from Knaresborough to York, and is a bit different from the previous books in that we focus solely on DI Riddick, with his colleague and friend DCI Emma Gardner nowhere to be seen. Riddick has now lived with his heart transplant (and without Emma) for over a year, and is gradually getting used to his new life (although not enough to prevent him from running some dangerous risks in the name of his case!).
I missed the interaction between Riddick and Gardner, but he does have a new DS, Laura Frost, who turns out to be more similar to him than he first realises. The case itself is a pretty sad one, as we see Graham Blank going increasingly off the rails as he takes out his frustrations against the system. But what has pushed him to such terrible lengths? The answer makes Riddick, with his own tragic past, even more desperate to find him before it’s too late…
The author commented at the end of the book that he has thought book six would be the last in the series, but I’m glad it wasn’t! And it seems that book eight (now likely the end of the series) will focus on Emma, and her ongoing investigation into the shady businessman who she holds responsible for the death of her colleagues. So I’ll be watching this space for what should be a dangerous finale, and one that hopefully reunites Riddick and Gardner again!
December 8, 2025
The York Minster Killings by Wes Markin is a powerful and compelling contemporary novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. It is the seventh book in The Yorkshire Murders series but can be read as a stand-alone. I recommend reading the books in numerical order for the continuity of stories and for character progression.
I enjoyed meeting up with familiar faces that I have known from the start.
The leading detective is hard-working, loyal and able to empathise with others. The line between him and the perpetrator is blurred as their lives have similar stories but they have very different trajectories. Both are dads struggling with loss. “You are not the only one drowning in this… You’re not the only one who wakes up expecting to hear her voice.”
We witness that loss totally consumes. He “understood that loss. The kind that burned your world down.” One minute you are a dad, the next a grieving father. There is no manual. You just have to work through it however you can. Your choices will have consequences and you must own them. “Desperation and the choices people made when the world stopped listening.” A silent world propels a character to make darker and ever darker choices.
There is the need for support for the grieving, but they fell beneath the cracks. “How we treat desperate people. It matters.” The lead protagonist is invisible and ignored. His action, however, cannot be ignored.
The lead detective is loyal to his past and present working partners. He will always go the extra mile where he can. The reader recognises the relationship he has ignored for years – even though it is a revelation to him.
We see the state of the NHS. It is a broken system that needs fixing, not broken promises from the sitting MP, and cuts to local services.
I thoroughly enjoyed The York Minster Killings. It was a powerful read. It was a story that totally resonated with me. The leading detective is likable and realistic. I can highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed meeting up with familiar faces that I have known from the start.
The leading detective is hard-working, loyal and able to empathise with others. The line between him and the perpetrator is blurred as their lives have similar stories but they have very different trajectories. Both are dads struggling with loss. “You are not the only one drowning in this… You’re not the only one who wakes up expecting to hear her voice.”
We witness that loss totally consumes. He “understood that loss. The kind that burned your world down.” One minute you are a dad, the next a grieving father. There is no manual. You just have to work through it however you can. Your choices will have consequences and you must own them. “Desperation and the choices people made when the world stopped listening.” A silent world propels a character to make darker and ever darker choices.
There is the need for support for the grieving, but they fell beneath the cracks. “How we treat desperate people. It matters.” The lead protagonist is invisible and ignored. His action, however, cannot be ignored.
The lead detective is loyal to his past and present working partners. He will always go the extra mile where he can. The reader recognises the relationship he has ignored for years – even though it is a revelation to him.
We see the state of the NHS. It is a broken system that needs fixing, not broken promises from the sitting MP, and cuts to local services.
I thoroughly enjoyed The York Minster Killings. It was a powerful read. It was a story that totally resonated with me. The leading detective is likable and realistic. I can highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
December 6, 2025
Wes Markin’s The York Minster Killings is a dark, gripping addition to the Yorkshire Murders series, steeped in atmosphere and tension. Set against the haunting backdrop of York, the novel explores desperation, violence, and the fragile line between justice and chaos.
At its heart is Graham Blanks, a father pushed to the edge as he fights to save his daughter. His descent into frustration and violence is both chilling and tragic, creating a relentless pace as his victims begin to mount. Opposite him stands DI Paul Riddick, a detective still recovering from his own battles, whose empathy for Graham’s plight makes the pursuit all the more complex. Their collision feels inevitable, yet Markin keeps the suspense taut, ensuring readers are never quite certain how far each man will go.
The novel thrives on contrasts: the grandeur of York Minster shadowed by brutality, the humanity of a father’s love twisted into deadly obsession, and a detective’s determination tested against his own frailty. Markin’s prose is sharp and immersive, pulling you into a city where time is running out and lives hang in the balance.
This is a thriller that doesn’t just deliver twists—it digs into the emotional weight of its characters, making the stakes feel personal as well as perilous. The York Minster Killings is a powerful, atmospheric crime novel that will leave readers breathless and eager for the next chapter in the series.
With thanks to Wes Markin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
At its heart is Graham Blanks, a father pushed to the edge as he fights to save his daughter. His descent into frustration and violence is both chilling and tragic, creating a relentless pace as his victims begin to mount. Opposite him stands DI Paul Riddick, a detective still recovering from his own battles, whose empathy for Graham’s plight makes the pursuit all the more complex. Their collision feels inevitable, yet Markin keeps the suspense taut, ensuring readers are never quite certain how far each man will go.
The novel thrives on contrasts: the grandeur of York Minster shadowed by brutality, the humanity of a father’s love twisted into deadly obsession, and a detective’s determination tested against his own frailty. Markin’s prose is sharp and immersive, pulling you into a city where time is running out and lives hang in the balance.
This is a thriller that doesn’t just deliver twists—it digs into the emotional weight of its characters, making the stakes feel personal as well as perilous. The York Minster Killings is a powerful, atmospheric crime novel that will leave readers breathless and eager for the next chapter in the series.
With thanks to Wes Markin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
March 13, 2026
The York Minster Killings by Wes Markin is the seventh instalment in the Yorkshire Murders series, which had long been one of my favourite crime series. Unfortunately, book six felt like a step down, and this one continues that downward trend for me.
The story itself is extremely bleak and depressing throughout, and at times it feels as though it simply serves as a vehicle for complaints about the NHS. That said, Markin writes with a strong sense of atmosphere, and the darker tone of the case certainly keeps the tension high. Despite my issues with the direction of the characters, the central investigation is still interesting enough to keep the pages turning.
A big part of what originally made the series so engaging for me was the dynamic between the main characters, Riddick and Gardner. Sadly, their relationship has deteriorated and Gardner has all but disappeared from the story. Riddick’s personal storyline — once interesting — has also become increasingly far-fetched as the series has progressed, and I’ve found myself losing interest in that side of things. In the earlier books, I was really rooting for him despite his flaws.
That said, I’ve enjoyed this series enough in the past that I’m not ready to give up on it yet. I see there’s an eighth book planned, and I’m hoping it might bring things back on track — particularly by bringing Gardner back and recapturing some of the spark that made the earlier books so compelling.
Thank you to The Book Club Reviewer Group for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
The story itself is extremely bleak and depressing throughout, and at times it feels as though it simply serves as a vehicle for complaints about the NHS. That said, Markin writes with a strong sense of atmosphere, and the darker tone of the case certainly keeps the tension high. Despite my issues with the direction of the characters, the central investigation is still interesting enough to keep the pages turning.
A big part of what originally made the series so engaging for me was the dynamic between the main characters, Riddick and Gardner. Sadly, their relationship has deteriorated and Gardner has all but disappeared from the story. Riddick’s personal storyline — once interesting — has also become increasingly far-fetched as the series has progressed, and I’ve found myself losing interest in that side of things. In the earlier books, I was really rooting for him despite his flaws.
That said, I’ve enjoyed this series enough in the past that I’m not ready to give up on it yet. I see there’s an eighth book planned, and I’m hoping it might bring things back on track — particularly by bringing Gardner back and recapturing some of the spark that made the earlier books so compelling.
Thank you to The Book Club Reviewer Group for the advance copy in return for an honest review.
August 9, 2026
A 43-year-old father and former NHS worker loses his mind and goes on a rampage of fury and murder amongst the Viking festival participants in York but is he really evil or just desperate? DI Paul Riddick, now working in the Intelligence Analysis Unit after his heart transplant a year ago which is still being medicated and closely monitored, and joined by new team member DS Laura Frost, herself relocating due to a tragic past, finds himself caught up in the hunt for the man. Riddick already has serious concerns for the safety of DCI Emma Gardner who has taken off to Wiltshire determined to track down those responsible for the death of two of their colleagues but as the York case closes in, he finds himself empathising more and more with the killer. Still tortured by the fact that he couldn’t save his own family, can he keep himself and everyone else alive?
While book 6 left us readers wondering if it was the end for Riddick and Gardner, this book brings back Riddick as determined as ever to do the right thing whilst desperately searching for the woman he loves (and who loves him right back). This is a really sad story for all involved and is certainly a little different from the other detective stories in the series, providing plenty of food for thought but may not appeal to everyone. It was great to see an appearance from DCI Michael Yorke again as he and Riddick liaise over Gardner’s actions and whereabouts, and a thrilling ending leaves me wondering just what is coming next?
While book 6 left us readers wondering if it was the end for Riddick and Gardner, this book brings back Riddick as determined as ever to do the right thing whilst desperately searching for the woman he loves (and who loves him right back). This is a really sad story for all involved and is certainly a little different from the other detective stories in the series, providing plenty of food for thought but may not appeal to everyone. It was great to see an appearance from DCI Michael Yorke again as he and Riddick liaise over Gardner’s actions and whereabouts, and a thrilling ending leaves me wondering just what is coming next?
February 10, 2026
As York is my hometown, I was looking forward to reading this book. I have read others in this series and enjoyed them, I found it harder to get into this one. Told from the point of view of Paul Riddick, a detective based at this time in York and also from Graham's point of view. Graham has a bad start to the day and as it progresses things go from bad to worse. His situation is awful, on benefits, no money, a clamped car and a very poorly young daughter. He clashes with a group of tourists at a Viking festival (having been in York I can appreciate that you could !) and then things spiral out of control. Paul's new working partner, Laura, is feisty and also has a troubled past which Paul also has . They are sympathetic as details about Graham's life gradually come to light.
This is not so much of a investigation as following the tragic life Graham now has through the streets of York. Emotions are well described and I liked the empathy that Paul and Laura had for Graham's situation and the events that led to and caused the trail of destruction. Although realistic, the book came across as very political and a little depressing as people are trapped in the situations described. Paul is, at times irresponsible regarding his own health, though I do understand that attitude given what he has been through.
A good read , though the plot did not engage me as much as previous books in the series. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARc
This is not so much of a investigation as following the tragic life Graham now has through the streets of York. Emotions are well described and I liked the empathy that Paul and Laura had for Graham's situation and the events that led to and caused the trail of destruction. Although realistic, the book came across as very political and a little depressing as people are trapped in the situations described. Paul is, at times irresponsible regarding his own health, though I do understand that attitude given what he has been through.
A good read , though the plot did not engage me as much as previous books in the series. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARc
February 15, 2026
This book follows Paul Riddick a police officer who has recently had a heart transplant and this very morning had his 6 monthly check up and stent changed. He has been attached to a new office from down South and he isn't reallly happy about it. His own partner is on secondment in the South and she has asked him not to contact her. Emma the new partner has read all Riddicks notes and is aware of his past in all its gory detail, alcoholism, drugs, loss of partner and children and his heart problems. They are on a mission to find a gang of shoplifters who are according to intelligence building up to bigger jobs.
Whilst all this is going on a chap called Graham Blank who is much more unlucky than Riddick is having a bad day. He is late for an apointment with his daughters consultant at the hospital, his phone has run out of charge, he has parked his car on double yellows to buy a charger and it has been clamped. The shop won't accept his card payment and he has no cash, his job seekers allowance has been sanctioned so he won't have cash for weeks, on top of all this he thinks he has flu. The bad luck continues and of course Riddick spots him whilst they are out and wonders what is going on with this sweaty, unwell man. He soon finds out and the story begins.
Really enjoyed this book and could identify easily with both characters. I liked Riddick and his new sidekick Emma and felt for Graham who couldn't catch a break if it landed in his hand. Very good read.
Whilst all this is going on a chap called Graham Blank who is much more unlucky than Riddick is having a bad day. He is late for an apointment with his daughters consultant at the hospital, his phone has run out of charge, he has parked his car on double yellows to buy a charger and it has been clamped. The shop won't accept his card payment and he has no cash, his job seekers allowance has been sanctioned so he won't have cash for weeks, on top of all this he thinks he has flu. The bad luck continues and of course Riddick spots him whilst they are out and wonders what is going on with this sweaty, unwell man. He soon finds out and the story begins.
Really enjoyed this book and could identify easily with both characters. I liked Riddick and his new sidekick Emma and felt for Graham who couldn't catch a break if it landed in his hand. Very good read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm not usually a fan of dark, psychological crime novels, but this one really drew me in. It's the first book I've read in this series but am eager to read the rest. The book alternates the stories of DI Paul Riddick and the suspect, Graham Blanks, both of whom have suffered life-changing losses and are trying to come to terms with what's left of their lives. The story shows how Graham's life unravels as he hits one roadblock after another of a broken health and welfare system that seems set up to fail ordinary people, and as he buckles under the strain. Meanwhile, Riddick has his own health issues after receiving a heart transplant and dealing with the disappearance of his previous partner (a story that's clearly going to unfold in later books). While he has a lot of sympathy for what Graham's going through, at the end of the day he has a job to do. His relationship with his new partner looks like a lot of fun, and I hope she continues to feature in the series even if Graham does find his missing colleague.
The setting of the book gives a lot of richness, with the backdrop of the beautiful and ancient city of York as a contrast to the day-to-day struggles of people who are being failed by the system, as well as a cast of minor characters whose different reactions to Graham's plight are highly believable. And then there are the crows...
The setting of the book gives a lot of richness, with the backdrop of the beautiful and ancient city of York as a contrast to the day-to-day struggles of people who are being failed by the system, as well as a cast of minor characters whose different reactions to Graham's plight are highly believable. And then there are the crows...
February 23, 2026
The York Minster Killings doesn’t hit you right away. It’s written for people who already know the series, and you can feel that. The characters already have their patterns, their history, and if you’re new, you spend a while just trying to figure out who’s connected to who. But once you get past that, the darker tone starts creeping in.
The murder at York Minster kicks things off, and the book tells you straight up who the killer is. No mystery, no guessing—just that uneasy feeling of knowing exactly who’s out there while everyone else is still catching up. It’s got that Sandford vibe where the tension comes from the slow, steady push of the investigation, the sense of something tightening in the background while the danger keeps building.
The atmosphere does a lot of the work. York feels cold and heavy, like the whole place is carrying something it doesn’t want to talk about. The Minster hangs over everything, not dramatic, just there—big, old, and a little unsettling. The writing makes the city feel worn and haunted in a quiet way.
Once the book finally gets moving, it’s a lot more gripping. The pace picks up, the threat feels sharper, and the story leans into its darker side. It starts slow, but once it finds its rhythm, it turns into a moody, shadow‑heavy crime story that keeps you going.
The murder at York Minster kicks things off, and the book tells you straight up who the killer is. No mystery, no guessing—just that uneasy feeling of knowing exactly who’s out there while everyone else is still catching up. It’s got that Sandford vibe where the tension comes from the slow, steady push of the investigation, the sense of something tightening in the background while the danger keeps building.
The atmosphere does a lot of the work. York feels cold and heavy, like the whole place is carrying something it doesn’t want to talk about. The Minster hangs over everything, not dramatic, just there—big, old, and a little unsettling. The writing makes the city feel worn and haunted in a quiet way.
Once the book finally gets moving, it’s a lot more gripping. The pace picks up, the threat feels sharper, and the story leans into its darker side. It starts slow, but once it finds its rhythm, it turns into a moody, shadow‑heavy crime story that keeps you going.
December 6, 2025
I would like to thank Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a huge fan of Wes Markin - 3*
I first discovered Wes Markin via a discounted audiobook of his DCI Michael Yorke series. I was GRIPPED and I CONSUMED the series. It became my absolute solace - and then I found out about the Yorkshire Murders series. A series I felt a lot closer to because it's a lot closer to home... With gripping heartfelt characters, I was hooked.
This feeling of home continued with this book. This one is set in York and I LOVE York. I found it comforting to read the streets of York. It's obvious Markin has been. He encapsulates the Viking festival perfectly. I truly loved this.
I liked the plot. I have always loved Riddick and Gardener. I did find this book a bit more difficult because they were separated but I have hopes for the next in the series. I enjoyed the plot. I mean, I guessed it and that's why I can't give it a higher rating.
If you're a fan of the series, this is a nice comfortable addition.
If you've not read the series, you don't need to in order to appreciate this book but you'll be missing out. There's so many emotions that reverberate through this book.
I'm a huge fan of Wes Markin - 3*
I first discovered Wes Markin via a discounted audiobook of his DCI Michael Yorke series. I was GRIPPED and I CONSUMED the series. It became my absolute solace - and then I found out about the Yorkshire Murders series. A series I felt a lot closer to because it's a lot closer to home... With gripping heartfelt characters, I was hooked.
This feeling of home continued with this book. This one is set in York and I LOVE York. I found it comforting to read the streets of York. It's obvious Markin has been. He encapsulates the Viking festival perfectly. I truly loved this.
I liked the plot. I have always loved Riddick and Gardener. I did find this book a bit more difficult because they were separated but I have hopes for the next in the series. I enjoyed the plot. I mean, I guessed it and that's why I can't give it a higher rating.
If you're a fan of the series, this is a nice comfortable addition.
If you've not read the series, you don't need to in order to appreciate this book but you'll be missing out. There's so many emotions that reverberate through this book.
December 14, 2025
Just brilliant! The backdrop is the very scenic and atmospheric city of York a place very special to me and the way it’s beautifully and accurately described with a real fondness shows the author knows its quirks and history too and he does it real justice. Just as happens when you visit the city itself the past is hard to avoid as it creeps from every crevice, cobbled street and street name and blends seamlessly into the contemporary world, in this case quite a foreboding one.
It was a real treat to meet back up with the main characters who feel oh so familiar like an old pair of slippers. I was soon back up to speed with them, like bumping into old friends and quickly getting back onto the same page as them (pun intended).
This particular story is definitely one of my favourites of the series, moving as it is and despite making me cry several times. It has real undercurrents of the injustices of life and those who have succumb to them. The lines were blurry and it was hard to not feel deep empathy with the ‘bad guy’ of the piece but I felt justified a little in this as I saw the detective hero wrestling with the same morals.
One of those compelling race to the end stories then strangely sad when you get there stories as I never wanted it to end.
It was a real treat to meet back up with the main characters who feel oh so familiar like an old pair of slippers. I was soon back up to speed with them, like bumping into old friends and quickly getting back onto the same page as them (pun intended).
This particular story is definitely one of my favourites of the series, moving as it is and despite making me cry several times. It has real undercurrents of the injustices of life and those who have succumb to them. The lines were blurry and it was hard to not feel deep empathy with the ‘bad guy’ of the piece but I felt justified a little in this as I saw the detective hero wrestling with the same morals.
One of those compelling race to the end stories then strangely sad when you get there stories as I never wanted it to end.
January 21, 2026
I have not read all of the books in Wes Markin’s The Yorkshire Murders series. I have read (and must admit to being a bit of an addict) his most captivating Whitby’s Forgotten Victims and therefore, know this author can write gritty absorbing crime thrillers. This book 7 in the Yorkshire Murder series, York Minster Killings, simply serves to convince me that he really is one of the most understated crime authors around just now.
Whilst not a case that is officially assigned DI Paul Riddick, he is personally drawn to a series of ‘petty’ crimes which he falls upon and establishes, with his relentless determination, appear to be linked to the same individual. An individual who really is short on his luck and having a very bad day.
We get to know this cos the author so very cleverly provides the perspective of both criminal and investigator. Brilliant artistry from a writer who sure knows how to orchestrate a cracker of a thriller.
Whilst this is a fictional portrayal of a guy falling into a life of crime which escalates from shop lifting sweets to far more sinister lawbreaking, at the heart of the story is a believable plot that questions how far would you need to be pushed before the line between good and bad is inexorably crossed.
Brilliant.
Whilst not a case that is officially assigned DI Paul Riddick, he is personally drawn to a series of ‘petty’ crimes which he falls upon and establishes, with his relentless determination, appear to be linked to the same individual. An individual who really is short on his luck and having a very bad day.
We get to know this cos the author so very cleverly provides the perspective of both criminal and investigator. Brilliant artistry from a writer who sure knows how to orchestrate a cracker of a thriller.
Whilst this is a fictional portrayal of a guy falling into a life of crime which escalates from shop lifting sweets to far more sinister lawbreaking, at the heart of the story is a believable plot that questions how far would you need to be pushed before the line between good and bad is inexorably crossed.
Brilliant.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Yorkshire Murders #7
A desperate father - Graham Banks is having a very bad day. With his daughter's life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he's beginning to lose his patience.
An escalation of violence - As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
Graham Banks is a father who is pushed to his limit as he fights to save his daughter's life. He also finds himself fighting frustration and violence as his victims start to mount. DI Paul Riddick is on light duties as he is still recovering from surgery.
This story alternates between Graham Banks and Paul Riddick. Graham Banks is a complex character who you couldn't help but feel sorry for. The pace is steady.
Published 10th January 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #WesMarkin for my ARC of #TheYorkMinsterKillings in exchange for an honest review.
A desperate father - Graham Banks is having a very bad day. With his daughter's life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he's beginning to lose his patience.
An escalation of violence - As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
Graham Banks is a father who is pushed to his limit as he fights to save his daughter's life. He also finds himself fighting frustration and violence as his victims start to mount. DI Paul Riddick is on light duties as he is still recovering from surgery.
This story alternates between Graham Banks and Paul Riddick. Graham Banks is a complex character who you couldn't help but feel sorry for. The pace is steady.
Published 10th January 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #WesMarkin for my ARC of #TheYorkMinsterKillings in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2026
This was a heartbreaking and gripping instalment in the series. DI Paul Riddick returns following his near-death experience and heart transplant, and you can feel that he’s not quite the same man. There’s emotional weight to his character this time — particularly with the distance between him and Emma Gardiner — which adds an extra layer to the investigation.
I really enjoyed the introduction of DS Laura Frost. The dynamic between her and Riddick feels natural from the start, and it’s clear she’ll be a strong addition to the team.
At the centre of the novel is Graham Blanks, a father pushed to breaking point while trying to care for his seriously ill daughter. Watching his world unravel — missed appointments, financial hardship, and a growing sense of injustice — is devastating. The story doesn’t shy away from showing how desperation and anger can spiral when someone feels they have nothing left to lose.
This one felt particularly emotional because the motivations are rooted in very real struggles. It’s tense, tragic, and impossible to put down. A powerful read that shows how quickly lives can change forever.
I really enjoyed the introduction of DS Laura Frost. The dynamic between her and Riddick feels natural from the start, and it’s clear she’ll be a strong addition to the team.
At the centre of the novel is Graham Blanks, a father pushed to breaking point while trying to care for his seriously ill daughter. Watching his world unravel — missed appointments, financial hardship, and a growing sense of injustice — is devastating. The story doesn’t shy away from showing how desperation and anger can spiral when someone feels they have nothing left to lose.
This one felt particularly emotional because the motivations are rooted in very real struggles. It’s tense, tragic, and impossible to put down. A powerful read that shows how quickly lives can change forever.
March 5, 2026
This was a hard one, a killer is meant to be a bad person, and the good Cop hunts him down and justice prevails, but things are not always so straightforward in life, there is a background, a human side and in The York Minster Killings, a father’s desperate fight against the system, his relentless struggle against time to save the life of his daughter, while he slowly spirals into full meltdown and his actions become more destructive. DI Paul Ridddick, is back after his own serious health issues, supposed to be taking it easy, but also understands how far a parent will go for their child, grief is absolute, a raw pain, where logic and reasoning do not exist, DI Riddick does feel empathy for Graham, a father with no help, no support from the very system set up to help people, the story is told from both men’s POV, which does make for an interesting read, it’s a very sad read at times, heartbreaking, at the same time gripping. As always Wes Markin has a talent that brings not only characters to life, but the surroundings in which the story line lays, this is a powerful instalment to The Yorkshire Murders.
January 8, 2026
This had a lot of twists and turns! Didn’t realise it was a series but it’s kept you on your seat
A desperate father…
Graham Blanks is having a very bad day. With his daughter’s life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he’s beginning to lose his patience…
An escalation of violence…
As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
A final reckoning.
DI Paul Riddick is a man who understands a father’s desperation all too well. He knows Blanks has to be apprehended, but only newly recovered from illness himself, Riddick is struggling. Will he be able to stop Blanks in time - or will his deadly spree spiral even further out of control?
In the shadow of York Minster, the fate of many lies in the hands of two men with nothing left to lose and time running out...
A desperate father…
Graham Blanks is having a very bad day. With his daughter’s life hanging in the balance, Graham finds himself in a race against time to get her the help she so desperately needs. But in the bustling city of York, Graham is faced with setback after setback and he’s beginning to lose his patience…
An escalation of violence…
As Graham becomes more out of control, his frustration and violence increases. And soon his victims begin to mount. Can anyone end his desperate and deadly spree?
A final reckoning.
DI Paul Riddick is a man who understands a father’s desperation all too well. He knows Blanks has to be apprehended, but only newly recovered from illness himself, Riddick is struggling. Will he be able to stop Blanks in time - or will his deadly spree spiral even further out of control?
In the shadow of York Minster, the fate of many lies in the hands of two men with nothing left to lose and time running out...
January 11, 2026
Thank you LBT for having me on this review tour means so much to me. Also thank you for the gifted copy of this epub.
Ok so this was a really good read and my first by this author and in this series. I did it yet again and signed up for a book l had no idea was so far into a series but this was good I mean I still am gonna go back and read more of them cause now I have to!!!
So in this book we follow Graham Blinks, who is just in it. He's lost his job his daughter has a terminal illness I felt him straight away that's for sure.
The author does a really good job of mixing the high tension but also throws in the heartbreaking exploration of despair and empathy. It was done so well.
We also follow DI Riddick and he's still dealing with his own fallout and oh a new partner.
This book was just packed so full and the characters were so relatable.
I really liked how the ending just was actually so good and it all was tied up and just was the perfect ending!!! Loved it. Can’t wait for the next book!!! Curious to know what’s gonna happen next and where !!!
Ok so this was a really good read and my first by this author and in this series. I did it yet again and signed up for a book l had no idea was so far into a series but this was good I mean I still am gonna go back and read more of them cause now I have to!!!
So in this book we follow Graham Blinks, who is just in it. He's lost his job his daughter has a terminal illness I felt him straight away that's for sure.
The author does a really good job of mixing the high tension but also throws in the heartbreaking exploration of despair and empathy. It was done so well.
We also follow DI Riddick and he's still dealing with his own fallout and oh a new partner.
This book was just packed so full and the characters were so relatable.
I really liked how the ending just was actually so good and it all was tied up and just was the perfect ending!!! Loved it. Can’t wait for the next book!!! Curious to know what’s gonna happen next and where !!!
January 11, 2026
This was an engaging and unsettling read. I really enjoyed the use of an external narrator alongside the dual POVs of DI Paul Riddick and the perpetrator, Graham Blanks. It gave the story a strong sense of balance while still allowing the tension to steadily build.
From the very first page, Graham’s desperation and unease come through clearly, and that sense of escalation drives the plot forward. As the stakes rise for both Graham and Riddick, the tension tightens, and the reader is very aware that things are heading towards an inevitable collision.
I also appreciated the societal commentary woven throughout the story — particularly around the breakdown of welfare and NHS systems, the wider lack of care, injustice and stigma for the less fortunate. These themes add depth to Graham’s character arc and help explain the choices he makes, even when they’re difficult to confront as a reader.
A solid, thought-provoking crime thriller that balances tension, character, and social observation well.
From the very first page, Graham’s desperation and unease come through clearly, and that sense of escalation drives the plot forward. As the stakes rise for both Graham and Riddick, the tension tightens, and the reader is very aware that things are heading towards an inevitable collision.
I also appreciated the societal commentary woven throughout the story — particularly around the breakdown of welfare and NHS systems, the wider lack of care, injustice and stigma for the less fortunate. These themes add depth to Graham’s character arc and help explain the choices he makes, even when they’re difficult to confront as a reader.
A solid, thought-provoking crime thriller that balances tension, character, and social observation well.
January 25, 2026
I have read all of the books in this series and for me this is the best one of the series so far. I really liked that the detectives were investigating the crimes and chasing the perpetrator almost in real time.
It was good to be back with DI Paul Riddick and to catch up on what was happening in his life.
DI Paul Riddick was with a new team and was trying to get on with life after his heart transplant. He still thought lots about Emma but she had told him that they had no future and not to contact her.
Graham Blanks was a man who was disinterested in normal life and felt aggrieved with the current world and its processes. His daughter was very sick and needed a kidney transplant and he felt disappointed with himself as his life was falling apart. He was on a downward spiral and things were out of control.
This was a great read and I am really looking forward to the next instalment in DI Riddick’s life. Thanks to NetGalley and the producers for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It was good to be back with DI Paul Riddick and to catch up on what was happening in his life.
DI Paul Riddick was with a new team and was trying to get on with life after his heart transplant. He still thought lots about Emma but she had told him that they had no future and not to contact her.
Graham Blanks was a man who was disinterested in normal life and felt aggrieved with the current world and its processes. His daughter was very sick and needed a kidney transplant and he felt disappointed with himself as his life was falling apart. He was on a downward spiral and things were out of control.
This was a great read and I am really looking forward to the next instalment in DI Riddick’s life. Thanks to NetGalley and the producers for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My first time to read an instalment from this series and I am very intrigued to read the back story (though starting from this book didn’t take away any enjoyment). DI Riddick, struggling to recover from his own devastating personal losses, is on the trail of Graham, a desperate father who is struggling with the fate of his daughter Lucy who needed a kidney transplant. Graham it seems is on a random hunt to punish anyone who gets in his way in seeking revenge, while DI Riddick and his new Partner Laura Frost are desperate to stop him before anyone else gets hurt. In the meantime, Riddicks ex love interest, Emma, has cut him off and moved to work in Salisbury. But it seems Emma has found herself simultaneously in danger. Can Riddick focus on his case with this worry in the back of his mind?
A fantastic well paced and plotted story. I was hooked! Highly recommend. Huge thanks to author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A fantastic well paced and plotted story. I was hooked! Highly recommend. Huge thanks to author & publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The York Minster Killings is a tense and fast-moving crime thriller set in the heart of York. The story follows a desperate father whose attempt to save his daughter spirals into violence, while DI Paul Riddick races against time to stop the killings. The stakes are high from the opening chapters, and the setting adds a strong sense of atmosphere.
The pacing is sharp and maintains a steady tension throughout. The dual focus on the killer’s desperation and Riddick’s personal pressures adds emotional depth, making the investigation feel urgent. The build-up to the climax is effective and delivers a satisfying payoff.
The main characters are compelling, though some supporting roles could have been explored further. A few plot elements may feel familiar to experienced crime readers, but the execution remains solid and engaging.
A strong addition to the series. Dark, gritty, and well-paced, this one will appeal to fans of British crime thrillers.
The pacing is sharp and maintains a steady tension throughout. The dual focus on the killer’s desperation and Riddick’s personal pressures adds emotional depth, making the investigation feel urgent. The build-up to the climax is effective and delivers a satisfying payoff.
The main characters are compelling, though some supporting roles could have been explored further. A few plot elements may feel familiar to experienced crime readers, but the execution remains solid and engaging.
A strong addition to the series. Dark, gritty, and well-paced, this one will appeal to fans of British crime thrillers.
December 17, 2025
The York Minster Killings by Wes Markin
I was invited to read this book, and I’m so glad I was because I really enjoyed it. This is the seventh book in the series, but even though I haven’t read the previous installments, it didn’t affect my enjoyment or understanding of the story at all.
This is a sad and emotionally driven story about the lengths a father will go to in order to secure the medical care his daughter desperately needs. The themes are heavy, but they’re handled with care and purpose.
I had a sense of where the story might be heading, but I won’t go into detail here as I don’t want to give anything away. Even so, the journey was compelling and thought-provoking.
At its heart, this is a story about a father’s mission to challenge and fix a broken system- and the devastating consequences that can follow.
I was invited to read this book, and I’m so glad I was because I really enjoyed it. This is the seventh book in the series, but even though I haven’t read the previous installments, it didn’t affect my enjoyment or understanding of the story at all.
This is a sad and emotionally driven story about the lengths a father will go to in order to secure the medical care his daughter desperately needs. The themes are heavy, but they’re handled with care and purpose.
I had a sense of where the story might be heading, but I won’t go into detail here as I don’t want to give anything away. Even so, the journey was compelling and thought-provoking.
At its heart, this is a story about a father’s mission to challenge and fix a broken system- and the devastating consequences that can follow.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book came with high reviews and if you’ve read more from this series I can probably understand why. Fast paced and easy to dive right in, this story was very well written.
That said, I haven’t read this series before and I feel that this may have been the wrong book to start with .firstly, I really don’t understand why the crows were so important or referenced so much in this book. The story itself doesn’t require birds and yet the characters, main and closing chapters hang off of them.
I found the story a little predictable and pedestrian at times and some parts were a little unbelievable. I enjoyed the character development and the introduction of Frost as a new partner.
I’d definitely read another of this authors books but I wouldn’t recommend this book as a good starting point to the series.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
That said, I haven’t read this series before and I feel that this may have been the wrong book to start with .firstly, I really don’t understand why the crows were so important or referenced so much in this book. The story itself doesn’t require birds and yet the characters, main and closing chapters hang off of them.
I found the story a little predictable and pedestrian at times and some parts were a little unbelievable. I enjoyed the character development and the introduction of Frost as a new partner.
I’d definitely read another of this authors books but I wouldn’t recommend this book as a good starting point to the series.
Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews