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Inspector Drake #0.5
Devil's Kitchen
A tragic accident or murder on a mountain?When two bodies are found sprawled at the bottom of the Devil's Kitchen in the mountains of Snowdonia, it looks like a murders/suicide. But something doesn't feel right to Detective Inspector Ian Drake and his gut instinct has never let him down before.
Drake suspects at least one of the deaths could be suspicious, but who would kill such an ordinary couple and why? This might be Drake's first murder inquiry, but his years as a detective have taught him one thing - every murder has a motive, and every killer leaves a trace.
If you enjoy crime mysteries then you’ll love this prequel novella in the Inspector Drake series.
Drake suspects at least one of the deaths could be suspicious, but who would kill such an ordinary couple and why? This might be Drake's first murder inquiry, but his years as a detective have taught him one thing - every murder has a motive, and every killer leaves a trace.
If you enjoy crime mysteries then you’ll love this prequel novella in the Inspector Drake series.
86 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2016
68 people are currently reading
161 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Puleston
49 books297 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Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/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 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 30, 2017
This short novella takes the reader back to Inspector Drakes's very first investigation. DI Ian Drake is called when two bodies are found at the bottom of a mountain.
At first glance, it looks like a man stabbed his wife and then jumped to his own death. But Drake has a feeling there is more to the story. Possibly someone else stabbed the wife and threw the husband over the cliff.
Drake wants this investigation to go well, to show that he can do the job and do it well. He and his partner, DS Caren Waits go to great lengths in interviewing possible witnesses, friends and family.
The couple, from all accounts, seemed like any normal married couple. So who would want them dead?
Drake seems to suffer from Obsessive–compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) ..he displays a pattern of concern with orderliness, perfectionism. excessive attention to details. And when his partner talks with her mouth full, it's almost more than he can bear. He and his wife are having problems ... mainly because he can't turn his mind off this case... and he's gone a lot.
I actually didn't learn much about Waits. She is somewhat at odds with Drake, but she does understand that he is the boss and what he says, goes.
Although a 70-page novella, there's plenty of action, plenty of suspense packed into these pages. I'm sure I'll be following this series.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital ARC for my reading pleasure.
At first glance, it looks like a man stabbed his wife and then jumped to his own death. But Drake has a feeling there is more to the story. Possibly someone else stabbed the wife and threw the husband over the cliff.
Drake wants this investigation to go well, to show that he can do the job and do it well. He and his partner, DS Caren Waits go to great lengths in interviewing possible witnesses, friends and family.
The couple, from all accounts, seemed like any normal married couple. So who would want them dead?
Drake seems to suffer from Obsessive–compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) ..he displays a pattern of concern with orderliness, perfectionism. excessive attention to details. And when his partner talks with her mouth full, it's almost more than he can bear. He and his wife are having problems ... mainly because he can't turn his mind off this case... and he's gone a lot.
I actually didn't learn much about Waits. She is somewhat at odds with Drake, but she does understand that he is the boss and what he says, goes.
Although a 70-page novella, there's plenty of action, plenty of suspense packed into these pages. I'm sure I'll be following this series.
Many thanks to the author who provided a digital ARC for my reading pleasure.
October 12, 2021
5 stars audio
3.5 stars story
3.5 stars story
May 5, 2016
A good use of a novella to re-inforce this excellent series; promote the existing books available and take fans back to the beginning to Ian Drake's first case as a dectective inspector.
DI Drake is borderline OCD. He is meticulous in his dress, personal cleanliness and order. A lack of this qualities in others annoy him to the point of mild stress and distraction.
A family man his worklife balance is thrown out of kilter when he is unable to pass on a case of misadventure to the coroner without full scrutiny and pursuit of all available leads. With pressure from above and at home we see Drake for who he is and why he is the man and detective he has become.
I loved the location and scene of crime, high in the Snowdonia. The careful discriptions of the 'murder' scene and the legistic difficulties this presented the investigation, beyond the lack of CCTV. The story relies on old fashioned police work, methodical and unrelenting pursuit of the truth.
I liked the number of sub-plots and the links that were missed and made indirectly that ensured finally the truth is revealed. It challenges our assumptions and how sometimes things can be overlooked.
This is a good short story that shows this a series open to all from fans of police procedurals to readers who adore lateral thinking detectives who use logic to finally join the dots. In this case there is limited DNA and evidence to identify or prove what happened and who was involved other than a police officer's hunch and determination to weigh up the evidence.
DI Drake is borderline OCD. He is meticulous in his dress, personal cleanliness and order. A lack of this qualities in others annoy him to the point of mild stress and distraction.
A family man his worklife balance is thrown out of kilter when he is unable to pass on a case of misadventure to the coroner without full scrutiny and pursuit of all available leads. With pressure from above and at home we see Drake for who he is and why he is the man and detective he has become.
I loved the location and scene of crime, high in the Snowdonia. The careful discriptions of the 'murder' scene and the legistic difficulties this presented the investigation, beyond the lack of CCTV. The story relies on old fashioned police work, methodical and unrelenting pursuit of the truth.
I liked the number of sub-plots and the links that were missed and made indirectly that ensured finally the truth is revealed. It challenges our assumptions and how sometimes things can be overlooked.
This is a good short story that shows this a series open to all from fans of police procedurals to readers who adore lateral thinking detectives who use logic to finally join the dots. In this case there is limited DNA and evidence to identify or prove what happened and who was involved other than a police officer's hunch and determination to weigh up the evidence.
December 14, 2017
A double murder in the Snowdonia Mountains. A police procedural, prequel novella that introduces a freshly promoted Detective Inspector. A stunning cover. All of these things attracted me to this book.
Ian Drake has only been a DI for a month. He is married and the father of two young daughters. His wife, Sian, doesn't understand the demands of his new position and is jealous of his time spent away from her and their two daughters.
His second in command, DS Caren Waits, couldn't be more different to Drake, in work ethic, mannerisms, and personal habits. He is fastidious to the point of OCD, she is rather slovenly.
"The glorious scenery of North Wales couldn't hide the darker side of humanity".
Near the end of September, two bodies have been found at one end of Cwm Idwal in the Snowdonia mountains. One obviously a murder (kitchen knife protruding from her chest), the other subject to question. The victims are husband and wife, Jack and Denise Trainor. Everyone, including Drake's boss, think that this case has all the hallmarks of a crime of passion. Husband kills wife, then filled with remorse, jumps to his own death.
Drake suspects this is oversimplifying, and thinks there may be more to this crime than is immediately apparent.
DI Drake is normally my type of copper. He cares about his job, he is a bit quirky, and he is the exact opposite type of personality to his sergeant. However... I didn't warm to him at all. I cannot explain it...
I loved the setting, how could you not? The mystery plot was well executed, but the overall mix left me quite underwhelmed. I wonder if it was in part to sentences such as these?
"The Trainors seemed well read and educated so it puzzled Drake why anyone would have wanted to kill them."
Seriously? I don't see the connection.
Though many factors of this series appeals to me, I have decided that I will very likely not be following it any further. Others may overlook some of the things that I found jarring, and those people will likely have found a new favorite author. This is just a short read, so give it a try and see for yourself if you feel this is a series worth pursuing.
Ian Drake has only been a DI for a month. He is married and the father of two young daughters. His wife, Sian, doesn't understand the demands of his new position and is jealous of his time spent away from her and their two daughters.
His second in command, DS Caren Waits, couldn't be more different to Drake, in work ethic, mannerisms, and personal habits. He is fastidious to the point of OCD, she is rather slovenly.
"The glorious scenery of North Wales couldn't hide the darker side of humanity".
Near the end of September, two bodies have been found at one end of Cwm Idwal in the Snowdonia mountains. One obviously a murder (kitchen knife protruding from her chest), the other subject to question. The victims are husband and wife, Jack and Denise Trainor. Everyone, including Drake's boss, think that this case has all the hallmarks of a crime of passion. Husband kills wife, then filled with remorse, jumps to his own death.
Drake suspects this is oversimplifying, and thinks there may be more to this crime than is immediately apparent.
DI Drake is normally my type of copper. He cares about his job, he is a bit quirky, and he is the exact opposite type of personality to his sergeant. However... I didn't warm to him at all. I cannot explain it...
I loved the setting, how could you not? The mystery plot was well executed, but the overall mix left me quite underwhelmed. I wonder if it was in part to sentences such as these?
"The Trainors seemed well read and educated so it puzzled Drake why anyone would have wanted to kill them."
Seriously? I don't see the connection.
Though many factors of this series appeals to me, I have decided that I will very likely not be following it any further. Others may overlook some of the things that I found jarring, and those people will likely have found a new favorite author. This is just a short read, so give it a try and see for yourself if you feel this is a series worth pursuing.
August 13, 2017
My rating 5 out of 5 stars
This is a novella prequel to the Inspector Drake series. Personally, I love the idea of having a short book to introduce the characters to a series and this one is free which is a bonus.
As they attend the crime scene it appears this is a crime of passion with the husband murdering his wife and then committing suicide. Drake, however, is convinced that all is not as it seems and has a struggle to convince his boss to allow him to follow his gut instinct. There are many twists and turns to the story which moves along at a reasonably fast pace. It is an unusual story with relationships, deceit and jealousy playing a part. The ending is one the reader wont expect.
Drake has just been promoted to Detective Inspector and is still finding his feet when 2 bodies are found at the bottom of a cliff. He is a very particular character and likes everything clean and tidy and this comes across in his work as he likes everything neatly tied up with no loose ends. He has a difficult relationship with his work partner, Caren as they are totally different personalities. Caren is dedicated to her work but, compared to Drake, she is a little slovenly and disorganised. However, Drake is determined to create a good working relationship. He also has a slightly difficult home life as his wife struggles with the anti-social hours that detectives work.
The series is set in the beautiful countryside of Wales and Stephen makes an excellent job of ensuring the reader can visualise the setting and scenery. This is a great novella and I will be reading the rest of this series.
This is a novella prequel to the Inspector Drake series. Personally, I love the idea of having a short book to introduce the characters to a series and this one is free which is a bonus.
As they attend the crime scene it appears this is a crime of passion with the husband murdering his wife and then committing suicide. Drake, however, is convinced that all is not as it seems and has a struggle to convince his boss to allow him to follow his gut instinct. There are many twists and turns to the story which moves along at a reasonably fast pace. It is an unusual story with relationships, deceit and jealousy playing a part. The ending is one the reader wont expect.
Drake has just been promoted to Detective Inspector and is still finding his feet when 2 bodies are found at the bottom of a cliff. He is a very particular character and likes everything clean and tidy and this comes across in his work as he likes everything neatly tied up with no loose ends. He has a difficult relationship with his work partner, Caren as they are totally different personalities. Caren is dedicated to her work but, compared to Drake, she is a little slovenly and disorganised. However, Drake is determined to create a good working relationship. He also has a slightly difficult home life as his wife struggles with the anti-social hours that detectives work.
The series is set in the beautiful countryside of Wales and Stephen makes an excellent job of ensuring the reader can visualise the setting and scenery. This is a great novella and I will be reading the rest of this series.
February 21, 2018
Devil's Kitchen - a review by Rosemary Kenny
This brilliant DI Drake novel by genius Stephen Puleston proves he's the modern successor to Colin Dexter and definitely worthy of the crown of Master of Detective Murder Mysteries.
Devil's Kitchen is a peculiar natural rock formation on Cadet Ideal Mountain and Drake and Ceren, his Detective Sergeant learn of the discovery of two bodies there.
Initially the case - Drake's first as SIO - seems straightforward... John Train or murdered his wife then threw himself to his death off the rock face in a fit of remorse...or is it really that simple?
Who is the elusive person in the red walking jacket?
Why is John Scott a suspect?
What information does Ceren find at the Trainors' cottage?
Where do they find Denise Trainor's sister - and what does she reveal to Drake and Ceren?
As the clues and red herrings come thick and fast you'll be drawn into the wild mountain beauty and the contrast with the ugliness of jealousy and murder in this sensational novel and yearn for more from the mighty pen of Stephen Puleston. I loved this fast-paced exciting adventure and can't wait to get the next - you'll love it too - guaranteed!
This brilliant DI Drake novel by genius Stephen Puleston proves he's the modern successor to Colin Dexter and definitely worthy of the crown of Master of Detective Murder Mysteries.
Devil's Kitchen is a peculiar natural rock formation on Cadet Ideal Mountain and Drake and Ceren, his Detective Sergeant learn of the discovery of two bodies there.
Initially the case - Drake's first as SIO - seems straightforward... John Train or murdered his wife then threw himself to his death off the rock face in a fit of remorse...or is it really that simple?
Who is the elusive person in the red walking jacket?
Why is John Scott a suspect?
What information does Ceren find at the Trainors' cottage?
Where do they find Denise Trainor's sister - and what does she reveal to Drake and Ceren?
As the clues and red herrings come thick and fast you'll be drawn into the wild mountain beauty and the contrast with the ugliness of jealousy and murder in this sensational novel and yearn for more from the mighty pen of Stephen Puleston. I loved this fast-paced exciting adventure and can't wait to get the next - you'll love it too - guaranteed!
June 4, 2021
This is a short tale about the first Inspector Drake case (after he had been promoted to Inspector). Two bodies have been found in the Devil's Kitchen, a place in the mountains. At first it looked like a murder/suicide but as usual, things are not always what they seem. Drake looks into the case, things don't add up, and he figures out whodunit.
This is a nice introduction to Inspector Drake. Having read the other books before this one, it's nice to see the character before certain traits became more dominant in his life. It introduces the other characters that become recurring in the rest of the series.
The narrator is great as always. No problems with him.
This is a nice introduction to Inspector Drake. Having read the other books before this one, it's nice to see the character before certain traits became more dominant in his life. It introduces the other characters that become recurring in the rest of the series.
The narrator is great as always. No problems with him.
May 29, 2020
Introductory novella to North Wales detective, DI Ian Drake, as a married couple are both found dead below a mountain peak
November 8, 2024
Kindle Unlimited
a prequel short to Stephen Pileston's Inspector Drake novels, Devil's Kitchen is a quick jump into this series, set in the awe-inspiring Snowdonia mountains of Northern Wales with Inspector Ian Drake and his partner, Detective Sergeant Caren Waits, as they investigate two deaths, perhaps their first career murder case, on the far side of Cwm Idwal. An excellent tale, told very well. This one was published in 2016, long after I became addicted to the series, but if you are new to the series, start with Devil's Kitchen. You won't be sorry. British Police Procedural at its very best.
Reviewed on September 17, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Kobo.
a prequel short to Stephen Pileston's Inspector Drake novels, Devil's Kitchen is a quick jump into this series, set in the awe-inspiring Snowdonia mountains of Northern Wales with Inspector Ian Drake and his partner, Detective Sergeant Caren Waits, as they investigate two deaths, perhaps their first career murder case, on the far side of Cwm Idwal. An excellent tale, told very well. This one was published in 2016, long after I became addicted to the series, but if you are new to the series, start with Devil's Kitchen. You won't be sorry. British Police Procedural at its very best.
Reviewed on September 17, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Kobo.
September 24, 2018
Audiobook Review
A great full packed story. A cop who wants to be thorough and do a good job. Determined to sort this case out. Superiors who would make do. But guess what, this is getting sorted.
Enjoyed the pace and narration. Story was great. Jam packed in a short time.
One to listen to
A great full packed story. A cop who wants to be thorough and do a good job. Determined to sort this case out. Superiors who would make do. But guess what, this is getting sorted.
Enjoyed the pace and narration. Story was great. Jam packed in a short time.
One to listen to
January 12, 2019
Murder in the mountains.
I listened to the audiobook of this novella and I have to say, the narration by Richard Elfyn, was excellent. So I was already in a receptive mood as I prepared to set out for a long drive.
I'm actually not quite sure what the purpose is of prequels. I've asked a few authors at Lit Fests and got varied responses, though it seems it's often the publisher's idea.
In this case, we are introduced to detective inspector Ian Drake, just after he has been promoted, and his side-kick, Ceren Waits. They are an interesting pair, as he's meticulously tidy and she's, well, a bit of a slob really. As I'd never read any of Stephen Puleston's books, I had no prior image of either character, which was possibly a good thing.
Two bodies are found on a Welsh mountain, husband and wife. The wife appears to have been murdered but it's not immediately apparent how the husband came to be sprawled close by.
It would have been easy to have gone with the obvious conclusion - that the husband murdered his wife and then committed suicide, but Drake's intuition suggests there's more to it. Being his first murder enquiry, he needs to be sure he gets it right and he persuades his superior to allow him a little more time to turn all the stones.
It did make me think about how easy it would have been for the incorrect conclusion to have been drawn and the case closed. How often must this happen??
This was an enjoyable listen, not too drawn out and fairly straight forward. I wasn't confused at the end as I have been by some books I've read recently. I'd probably give the first book in the series a try if it were to become available in audio - and especially if it's read by Richard Elfyn.
I listened to the audiobook of this novella and I have to say, the narration by Richard Elfyn, was excellent. So I was already in a receptive mood as I prepared to set out for a long drive.
I'm actually not quite sure what the purpose is of prequels. I've asked a few authors at Lit Fests and got varied responses, though it seems it's often the publisher's idea.
In this case, we are introduced to detective inspector Ian Drake, just after he has been promoted, and his side-kick, Ceren Waits. They are an interesting pair, as he's meticulously tidy and she's, well, a bit of a slob really. As I'd never read any of Stephen Puleston's books, I had no prior image of either character, which was possibly a good thing.
Two bodies are found on a Welsh mountain, husband and wife. The wife appears to have been murdered but it's not immediately apparent how the husband came to be sprawled close by.
It would have been easy to have gone with the obvious conclusion - that the husband murdered his wife and then committed suicide, but Drake's intuition suggests there's more to it. Being his first murder enquiry, he needs to be sure he gets it right and he persuades his superior to allow him a little more time to turn all the stones.
It did make me think about how easy it would have been for the incorrect conclusion to have been drawn and the case closed. How often must this happen??
This was an enjoyable listen, not too drawn out and fairly straight forward. I wasn't confused at the end as I have been by some books I've read recently. I'd probably give the first book in the series a try if it were to become available in audio - and especially if it's read by Richard Elfyn.
September 23, 2018
I was given a free code for this on Audible in return for an honest review.
This is my first time with this author and this is a novella as an introduction to the series of DI Ian Drake.
The narrative by Richard Elfyn was clear and I warmed to the voice taking me through the story.
There is a double death in the Snowdonia Mountains. Newly appointed DI Drake is suspicious but is under pressure to wrap it up. His working partner is Caren Waits.
Drake is punctual obsessive about his tidiness and a stickler for detail. Waits is the opposite arriving late and appears less precise. This has the great potential to fuel irritation between them as the series progresses.
I didn’t take much to Drake’s wife Sian. She appears to view Drake as her child rather than her partner from the way she was speaking to him. It will be interesting to see if they stay together as the books progress.
I liked how the investigation gained momentum and how Drake approached it. He came across as very dedicated and determined to get to the truth and do justice for the dead.
I really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a new detective murder series. I would definitely read more books in the series but hopefully they will be produced on Audible as I prefer to listen.
This is my first time with this author and this is a novella as an introduction to the series of DI Ian Drake.
The narrative by Richard Elfyn was clear and I warmed to the voice taking me through the story.
There is a double death in the Snowdonia Mountains. Newly appointed DI Drake is suspicious but is under pressure to wrap it up. His working partner is Caren Waits.
Drake is punctual obsessive about his tidiness and a stickler for detail. Waits is the opposite arriving late and appears less precise. This has the great potential to fuel irritation between them as the series progresses.
I didn’t take much to Drake’s wife Sian. She appears to view Drake as her child rather than her partner from the way she was speaking to him. It will be interesting to see if they stay together as the books progress.
I liked how the investigation gained momentum and how Drake approached it. He came across as very dedicated and determined to get to the truth and do justice for the dead.
I really enjoyed this and would recommend it to anyone looking for a new detective murder series. I would definitely read more books in the series but hopefully they will be produced on Audible as I prefer to listen.
August 11, 2017
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We go on holiday to North Wales on a regular basis and I do love reading a book set in a location known to me so when I saw that this novella was free and set where we go in Snowdonia I knew I had to read it!
I have read the first book in this series (Brass in Pocket) and gave that book 5 stars and this is the prequel novella - technically book 0.5 so I was interested to see how Drake dealt with his first murder case and how the relationship started with his team. This was a really quick read that took me less than two hours. The plot is good and it is easy to read - I enjoyed it - 4 stars from me! Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
We go on holiday to North Wales on a regular basis and I do love reading a book set in a location known to me so when I saw that this novella was free and set where we go in Snowdonia I knew I had to read it!
I have read the first book in this series (Brass in Pocket) and gave that book 5 stars and this is the prequel novella - technically book 0.5 so I was interested to see how Drake dealt with his first murder case and how the relationship started with his team. This was a really quick read that took me less than two hours. The plot is good and it is easy to read - I enjoyed it - 4 stars from me! Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!
January 31, 2020
Rivetting
As yes. This is a wonderful who done it that kept me glued to my Kindle. I can hardly wait to start the next book by Stephen Puleston. He has a way of keeping you guessing. Usually wrong.
As yes. This is a wonderful who done it that kept me glued to my Kindle. I can hardly wait to start the next book by Stephen Puleston. He has a way of keeping you guessing. Usually wrong.
May 25, 2021
This was a decent police procedural/murder mystery story. It was a short story but gave some background on Inspector Drake and how he goes about trying to solve a case.
August 18, 2021
⭐️3.5⭐️
October 21, 2024
Novella that is a prequel to the series.
October 5, 2019
This is a prequel to the Inspector Drake series which are set in Wales and very good. This is his first case. The story is very good but since it is a short story the ending seemed rushed. Drake is working on the murder with different leads. He figures it out at the very end, and they tie up all the loose ends. I was glad to listen to get background on Drake’s beginnings. We get a glimpse into the start of his career as an inspector. This is worth a listen. I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobookworm Promotions. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
November 22, 2018
4 stars
Perhaps if I hadn’t read all of Stephen Puleston’s later novels, I would have liked this one better. It was a fine little story, but Drake’s ADHD and other personality quirks I already knew about. Perhaps it is something about going backwards.
A husband and wife fall (?) off a cliff. When DI Drake and his partner DS Caren get to the site, they see that the woman was stabbed. Was this a murder – suicide? Did someone kill them both?
The reader follows the investigation as Drake and Caren sort out who might want to stab the wife. They focus on her relationships and less so on the husband’s. The man didn’t leave a suicide note and he was known to have kept a journal, so why didn’t he write out a note if he committed suicide? This little fact bothers Drake – a lot.
Drake and Caren ferret out the truth behind the incident.
I am very much looking forward to the next DI Ian Drake novel.
Perhaps if I hadn’t read all of Stephen Puleston’s later novels, I would have liked this one better. It was a fine little story, but Drake’s ADHD and other personality quirks I already knew about. Perhaps it is something about going backwards.
A husband and wife fall (?) off a cliff. When DI Drake and his partner DS Caren get to the site, they see that the woman was stabbed. Was this a murder – suicide? Did someone kill them both?
The reader follows the investigation as Drake and Caren sort out who might want to stab the wife. They focus on her relationships and less so on the husband’s. The man didn’t leave a suicide note and he was known to have kept a journal, so why didn’t he write out a note if he committed suicide? This little fact bothers Drake – a lot.
Drake and Caren ferret out the truth behind the incident.
I am very much looking forward to the next DI Ian Drake novel.
April 20, 2017
I give this 2.5 stars.
Well written novella but I don't think this story is for me. I haven't read any of the author's full length novels in this series, so I don't have anything to compare this offering with, but I found the book very "dry" and the plot less than exciting. I have read another crime novel where the main protagonist had OCD and it was written with some amusement unlike the author's DI Drake. He was rather annoying. This book won't entice me to read any more in this series.
Well written novella but I don't think this story is for me. I haven't read any of the author's full length novels in this series, so I don't have anything to compare this offering with, but I found the book very "dry" and the plot less than exciting. I have read another crime novel where the main protagonist had OCD and it was written with some amusement unlike the author's DI Drake. He was rather annoying. This book won't entice me to read any more in this series.
October 5, 2019
Ian Drake and Caren Waits dig into the deaths of 2 hikers in the mountains of Snowdonia, Wales. An accident? Murder? Murder-Suicide? Ian wants to dig into it. His supervisors want him to close the case swiftly and the immediate evidence points to a murder suicide. Yet Ian can’t ignore his little questions.
This is great little introduction to the Ian Drake Mysteries. Right away, I was captivated by the surroundings – the mountains of Wales. Part of that is the very talented audiobook narrator (which I’ll discuss later), but a good chunk of it is the details built into the story. There’s so many accents, so much history, and that makes for a rich background for the plot.
Inspector Drake is also an interesting guy. He seems a bit tightly wound, compact, not into chit chat. As the pressure builds we notice that he needs his little routines and likes being neat & tidy all the time. Ha! Too bad he’s paired with the easy going Caren Waits. She’s nearly always snacking on something and is more about the work than about being neat and tidy. Drake reminded me a bit of Monk from the TV series, but not so outrageous. Drake is aware that he sometimes comes off as odd and he tries hard to keep it in check.
The mystery had a few surprises for me – yay! I expected this to be pretty straight forward (just like Drake’s bosses) and I was proven (happily) wrong. As a reader, I applaud the twist. Though I expect Drake was left feeling a little let down. This is one of those cases where the truth doesn’t necessarily bring you justice, and that made it all the more interesting as a story. Great start to a murder mystery series! 5/5 stars.
The Narration: First, it’s just cool to say this dude’s last name – Elfyn. Richard Elfyn gave a great performance on this book. There’s a few Welsh place names and Elfyn pronounces them smoothly (and hopefully correctly as I am so ignorant of the language and area I can’t say). He also did a great job with the regional accents, as the text of the story mentions this or that accent often. His female voices were believable and all of his characters had distinct voices. The pacing was perfect and there were no tech issues with the recording. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Audiobookworm in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.
This is great little introduction to the Ian Drake Mysteries. Right away, I was captivated by the surroundings – the mountains of Wales. Part of that is the very talented audiobook narrator (which I’ll discuss later), but a good chunk of it is the details built into the story. There’s so many accents, so much history, and that makes for a rich background for the plot.
Inspector Drake is also an interesting guy. He seems a bit tightly wound, compact, not into chit chat. As the pressure builds we notice that he needs his little routines and likes being neat & tidy all the time. Ha! Too bad he’s paired with the easy going Caren Waits. She’s nearly always snacking on something and is more about the work than about being neat and tidy. Drake reminded me a bit of Monk from the TV series, but not so outrageous. Drake is aware that he sometimes comes off as odd and he tries hard to keep it in check.
The mystery had a few surprises for me – yay! I expected this to be pretty straight forward (just like Drake’s bosses) and I was proven (happily) wrong. As a reader, I applaud the twist. Though I expect Drake was left feeling a little let down. This is one of those cases where the truth doesn’t necessarily bring you justice, and that made it all the more interesting as a story. Great start to a murder mystery series! 5/5 stars.
The Narration: First, it’s just cool to say this dude’s last name – Elfyn. Richard Elfyn gave a great performance on this book. There’s a few Welsh place names and Elfyn pronounces them smoothly (and hopefully correctly as I am so ignorant of the language and area I can’t say). He also did a great job with the regional accents, as the text of the story mentions this or that accent often. His female voices were believable and all of his characters had distinct voices. The pacing was perfect and there were no tech issues with the recording. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Audiobookworm in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.
July 7, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are mine.
This is a prequel to the Inspector Drake series - I have not read any of the books in this series. The writer very deftly established the well-round MC of Ian Drake and his partner - so I didn't feel as if I was missing anything, not having read any of the prior books. However, now having read this one - I will look for further books in this series.
This is Ian Drakes first homicide as the senior investigator. From outward appearances, it is nothing more than a husband murdered his wife in a fit of jealousy and then committed suicide. But, this is Drake's first case and nothing in his character will let him cave into the pressure of assuming there is nothing to investigate in a "clear" murder/suicide.
What a wonderful introduction to this series and this character. I loved how Drake struggled with balancing his all-consuming work life with his family life. There are plenty of clues for the astute reader to guess "who dunnit" but what was even better is how Drake put it all together using old-fashioned police work. While a very straight forward and completely believable story, there were some very clever twists to keep you on your toes.
I listened to this book - the narrator was fantastic. Through his narration, I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind's eye. Absolutely perfect!
This is a prequel to the Inspector Drake series - I have not read any of the books in this series. The writer very deftly established the well-round MC of Ian Drake and his partner - so I didn't feel as if I was missing anything, not having read any of the prior books. However, now having read this one - I will look for further books in this series.
This is Ian Drakes first homicide as the senior investigator. From outward appearances, it is nothing more than a husband murdered his wife in a fit of jealousy and then committed suicide. But, this is Drake's first case and nothing in his character will let him cave into the pressure of assuming there is nothing to investigate in a "clear" murder/suicide.
What a wonderful introduction to this series and this character. I loved how Drake struggled with balancing his all-consuming work life with his family life. There are plenty of clues for the astute reader to guess "who dunnit" but what was even better is how Drake put it all together using old-fashioned police work. While a very straight forward and completely believable story, there were some very clever twists to keep you on your toes.
I listened to this book - the narrator was fantastic. Through his narration, I felt like I was watching a movie in my mind's eye. Absolutely perfect!
October 16, 2018
Devil’s Kitchen is a 70 page / 2 hour 21 minute novella prequel to Stephen Pulestone’s five Inspector Drake novels, set in fabulous north Wales. I listened to this via Audible, and it just happened to be the perfect length for my weekly drive to Wales. And the perfect setting too! Although this is a relatively short novella, the story is very complete, and never feels rushed, and there are enough twists, turns and dodgy suspects to keep fans of police procedurals very happy. Stephen’s writing is very crisp and clean, and his descriptions, brought to life for me by excellent narration of Richard Elfyn, paint a very vivid picture of the mountainous terrain of north Wales. I think releasing a prequel novella is an excellent idea to give potential readers a decent idea of a writer and their protagonist. And with Devil’s Kitchen, this pays off very well; I for one am keen to read more in the series.
November 24, 2017
The story opens with Ian Drake, newly promoted to Detective Inspector and he’s keen to prove himself when the call comes in about two bodies being found in the Cwn Idwal valley in the middle of Snowdonia, otherwise known as the Devil’s Kitchen.
It looks like a simple murder suicide but Drake is unsure. With the help of DS Caren Waits he wants to find out what really happened.
This is a good short story, it’s only eleven chapters long, and a nice introduction to the characters of DI Drake and DS Waits.
DI Drake seems a little OCD and serious which nicely complements DS Waits who’s a bit more laid back and messy.
I haven’t read many stories set in Wales, especially crime fiction and I’m interested in seeing where this series is headed.
I read it in one sitting and I think it’s ideal for a commute or if you’ve got a bit of spare time.
It looks like a simple murder suicide but Drake is unsure. With the help of DS Caren Waits he wants to find out what really happened.
This is a good short story, it’s only eleven chapters long, and a nice introduction to the characters of DI Drake and DS Waits.
DI Drake seems a little OCD and serious which nicely complements DS Waits who’s a bit more laid back and messy.
I haven’t read many stories set in Wales, especially crime fiction and I’m interested in seeing where this series is headed.
I read it in one sitting and I think it’s ideal for a commute or if you’ve got a bit of spare time.
October 6, 2018
Although this is a short novella Stephen Puleston has packed lots of action into this story. Ian Drake is a newly promoted DI in charge of his first case as SIO when two bodies are found. We learn that Drake is conscientious almost to the point of being OCD. His sidekick, DS Caren Waits, is his opposite - a bit of a slob. The case looks initially like a murder/suicide but Drake isn't convinced.
The story is set in Snowdonia, an area I know from family holidays, and I like books set in familiar locations, which were described well.
I listened to this in one sitting, and although short the story draws you in and there were several twist to keep you guessing. I haven't read anything by Stephen Puleston before but I will definitely try one of the full length Drake novels.
The story is set in Snowdonia, an area I know from family holidays, and I like books set in familiar locations, which were described well.
I listened to this in one sitting, and although short the story draws you in and there were several twist to keep you guessing. I haven't read anything by Stephen Puleston before but I will definitely try one of the full length Drake novels.
October 18, 2018
A great insight into Inspector Drake, read first if interested in the series
Stephen Puleston gives us insight into the intriguing personality of Inspector Drake. For those that have read the series, this short story s a bit of history and fills in the developmental timeline for the fastidious and somewhat obsessive character. For those just starting the series this is a Must Read First story.
Following Inspector Drake and his Partner Caren on his first big case, one is drawn in by the clever twists and turns of the confusing murder scene....
The author does a good job of developing the detailed characters of the victims, in such away that you are settled and comfortable with the outcome if the inspectors case!
Stephen Puleston gives us insight into the intriguing personality of Inspector Drake. For those that have read the series, this short story s a bit of history and fills in the developmental timeline for the fastidious and somewhat obsessive character. For those just starting the series this is a Must Read First story.
Following Inspector Drake and his Partner Caren on his first big case, one is drawn in by the clever twists and turns of the confusing murder scene....
The author does a good job of developing the detailed characters of the victims, in such away that you are settled and comfortable with the outcome if the inspectors case!
October 8, 2018
I was a HUGE fan of The Inspector Lindley series on PBS so I was excited to listen to this novella...and I was not disappointed. DI Ian Drake is dispatched to investigate an apparent murder-suicide. This is Drake’s 1st case as the senior officer so he intends to not muck it up. Drake and his partner, Karen, feel that this is not a simple jealous husband killing his wife then himself but their boss thinks otherwise. Will Drake get to the bottom of the mystery, while balancing the needs of his family? This is a novella so it is short but totally worth the listen and whets the appetite for more DI Drake!
May 6, 2021
A short story introducing Inspector Drake and his partner, DS Caren Waits during his first case.
It's really interesting to see this beginning, seeing Drake going to such great lengths, following his instinct that it's telling him that there is something more than a murder-suicide in this case. It's a good presentation, that highlights his sheer determination when it comes to doing what it's right.
We get to see him trying to be a good dad, but too focused on his job. We see his OCD acting and making him uncomfortable around messy places and people.
We see all that has made us love him in the rest of the stories, and that's wonderful.
I really, really liked it.
It's really interesting to see this beginning, seeing Drake going to such great lengths, following his instinct that it's telling him that there is something more than a murder-suicide in this case. It's a good presentation, that highlights his sheer determination when it comes to doing what it's right.
We get to see him trying to be a good dad, but too focused on his job. We see his OCD acting and making him uncomfortable around messy places and people.
We see all that has made us love him in the rest of the stories, and that's wonderful.
I really, really liked it.
June 13, 2021
As a fan of the inspector drake series this particular story was of great interest to me as it’s set prior to the novels of the series. We join the action as Ian Drake is given his first murder case as a newly promoted Detective Inspector. All the hallmarks that make the series so good are all present in this story despite it’s relatively shorter length. Drake faces the usual difficulties finding evidence that will lead him in the right direction. It’s a well constructed story with a very plausible cast of characters. I, as is usual for me, did not work out what had happened. Always great writing from Stephen Puleston and this novella maintains his high standards.
March 12, 2023
"Devil's Kitchen" is a police procedural, featuring newly-promoted Detective Inspector Ian Drake who is investigating a double murder on a mountain in Snowdonia.
He's got more than a touch of OCD but his obsessive nature is ideal when it comes to investigating crime.
A husband and wife are dead. Was it murder, suicide, or a combination of both?
DI Drake's persistent approach, contacting everyone connected to the two, eventually leads to a successful conclusion.
The author makes an attempt to humanise Drake but it didn't work for me and I found I could just not relate to him.
2.5 Stars, raised to 3 Stars.
He's got more than a touch of OCD but his obsessive nature is ideal when it comes to investigating crime.
A husband and wife are dead. Was it murder, suicide, or a combination of both?
DI Drake's persistent approach, contacting everyone connected to the two, eventually leads to a successful conclusion.
The author makes an attempt to humanise Drake but it didn't work for me and I found I could just not relate to him.
2.5 Stars, raised to 3 Stars.
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