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Inspector Marco #3

Somebody Told Me

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A gangland murder points to an impossible killer. But when Marco becomes a target things get personal and he has a race against time to find the true culprit.When DI John Marco discovers the body of Felix Bevard he knows instantly the killing was a professional hit. But the criminal underworld don't share secrets easily and with no apparent motive, Marco is forced to delve into Bevard's murky past to try to find the murderer. As Marco examines Bevard's past crimes, one name keeps cropping up - notorious gangster Jimmy Walsh.

A brutal murderer, Walsh has a motive for killing Bevard and the power to do it, but there's just one problem - Walsh is already behind bars. Corruption at the heart of the system seems the only answer. How else could Walsh kill with impunity? But as Marco's investigation develops, new leads spring from cases once thought closed, and the net closes ever tighter on Walsh.

Until Marco's own family begins to face threats to their life that could jeopardise the whole case. Now Marco must prove Walsh's guilt or catch the real killer still at large, before he becomes a victim himself.

Somebody Told Me is the third book in the fast-paced Inspector Marco crime series. If you like police procedurals, gripping page-turners with a touch of noir, then you’ll love Stephen Puleston’s racy thriller.

Buy Somebody Told Me and meet John Marco today.

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2016

138 people are currently reading
70 people want to read

About the author

Stephen Puleston

49 books298 followers
I 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Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/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

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5 stars
218 (49%)
4 stars
151 (34%)
3 stars
55 (12%)
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9 (2%)
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5 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for Linda Strong.
3,878 reviews1,711 followers
July 25, 2018
DI John Marco is back after spending several weeks vacation with his son. And what a first day back! For one thing, he's told he has a new supervisor, albeit temporary, but it's someone well known by Marco .. and they certainly don't like each other.

Marco is called to investigate the death of a man that turns out to be an underworld criminal. It's a professional hit with one suspect. But that suspect is in prison. Did he hire a hit man, or is Marco completely off base?

What he finds when investigating is a link to an old case that was closed years ago. When personal threats are made to his family, he knows he's getting closer to finding a killer. But he needs to find the killer before anyone else dies.

Although this is 3rd in the series featuring DI Marco, this one does well as a stand along. As always, I recommend starting at the beginning to get the full impact of the returning characters. The relationships are fascinating to watch, especially as Marco is an alcoholic, although he's been dry for a year. He still has a problem with anger mangement, but he's getting better. This is a well written crime fiction full of fast-paced action.

Many thanks to the author / Books n All Publicity / Jill Burkinshaw for the digital copy and allowing me to participate in the blog tour. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Profile Image for Susan Hampson.
1,521 reviews69 followers
August 2, 2018
This is definitely my favourite of the series so far and I had loved the first couple! Everyone needs a holiday and for DI John Marco that was a few weeks away with his son but within a couple of hours of being back it must have seemed like months had gone by. We all meet people in our lives that we will never get on with, well Marco was not only face to face with one of them, the detective in question was now his temporary supervisor. Tempers were going to fray and sparks were on the cards. When a murder occurs it soon points to a hardened criminal serving time as the instigator behind it to order the hit but proving it causes more than a head ache for Marco.
Being a Police Officer Marco has had his fair share of threats but this time this is different. Crikey! this brings out a new side of Marko and I think this is why I liked this book that little bit more. I had got to know about this damaged DI in the previous books but this really knocked him off-balance. I wondered could this be the thing that will tip him over the edge and oblivion to alcohol again? I hoped not but with an idiot in charge above him making the judgment calls anything was possible.
This story really gets into the politics of the justice system and moral and immoral implications of its decisions. I must admit that this story had heart racing moments for me as well as times that I wanted to lock up people for choices they made. A super story that could be read as a stand alone but really don’t short change yourself, read them all!
Profile Image for Joanna Larum.
Author 14 books8 followers
July 30, 2018
The third book in the Inspector Marco series but it is perfectly possible to read as a stand alone.
When a man with a murky past is found dead, Marco is handed the case to investigate, even though he has just returned from his holidays with his son. On his return to work, he is not only given a new case but also given the news that a detective from his past has been given temporary charge of his department. They didn't get on in the past and they don't now, making the investigation all the more difficult for Marco.
There is a suspect for the murder but, unfortunately, Jimmy Walsh is in prison and has to be ruled out. The deeper Marco goes, the more he realises that his own family are being targeted and he is desperate to get the case wound up before any of his family are murdered too.
The reader learns more about Marco's private life in this book and I believe this makes it all the more enjoyable. We aren't having his private life thrust down our throats but we get a more-rounded view of the character and I like him more and more with every book!
I said in my review of his last book that Stephen Puleston's novels are getting better and better and this one proves my point. If you like police procedural books then you will so enjoy these novels. I can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Lindsay.
1,355 reviews30 followers
June 23, 2021
AUDIOBOOK

Ok I am biased with this series as it’s set in my neighbourhood but I also love John Marco and this time the bad guys are going after his family as well who I love so I was right there with him wanting the bad guys banged up once and for all. It’s like coming back to an old friend when I listen to these audios
Profile Image for Sandra Leivesley.
968 reviews17 followers
July 5, 2021
In this third book DI John Marco is investigating a gangland killing but their main suspect was in prison at the time of the murder. But it gets personal when the bad guys start terrorising Marco's family!

This is an excellent, well written police procedural set in the Cardiff area of South Wales. The plot is engaging with twists and turns galore. The characters are all well drawn, especially John Marco. He is a dedicated policeman, an ex alcoholic, divoreced with a young son, and I like that we get to see a little of his personal life.

Joseph Tweedale does a marvellous job with the narration. The book is written in the first person and so he has become DI Marco for me!
Profile Image for Vanessa Krushner.
341 reviews11 followers
July 23, 2021
DI John Marco is back from holiday but no rest for him he is straight into a gangland murder. Although he has a suspect, the suspect is in prison.
As usual this is a great murder mystery, and it is the third in the series but you could still jump straight into this one.
I listened to this one and the narrator was great
Love Stephen Puleston
3 reviews
June 21, 2021
Full Disclosure: I was given this as an audio book for a true and honest review.
This is the second of the Inspector Marco series I have read and I just loved it. The plot beibg based in South Wales really adds to it for me. The plot is always on the go and there is never a dull moment. The character of Inspector Marco is really believable and likeable. This book involves gangland killings and Marco and his team get together to solve them. Great stuff. Highly recommended.
1 review
July 14, 2021
My first Stephen Puleson novel and its a cracking read (or in my case..audio listen). Isn’t it great to find a new series ! Definitely recommend 👌
645 reviews3 followers
July 3, 2021
No:3 in the Marco series this one slightly different as it's more gangland murder also this one is a lot nearer home for Marco.
Felix Bevard is dead and DI John Marco takes one look and says professional hit, and then he starts digging to only find the person that fits the crime is Jimmy Walsh but he's ready inside.
Marco's father and uncle own some property between them and have been offered a price for it but Marco's father is very reluctant to go ahead although Marco's cousin is all for it, and not only was he offered a price but it's sale or else. Marco's father has an accident and taken to hospital, and what's going thru Marco's mind is it's a threat, and while his mother was visiting his father she is met with an accident, only this time she was shunted off the road, but fortunately she was not hurt.
These people are very clever and Marco finds it very hard to find any proof, but at the same time, he must keep his head for his family's sake.
Very cleverly thought out Puleston give his detective's flaws this one a dried-out alcoholic but that makes them human Joseph Tweedle also gave an excellent performance narrating this audio.
Profile Image for Amy.
2 reviews
June 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It’s not necessary to read the first ones in the series as I haven’t and still enjoyed it! The narrator did a wonderful job and made me feel as though he were Inspector Marco himself. I thought it was a little slow going at first, but it really picked up towards the second half. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a detective story that isn’t to dark. The author gave it a nice balance of police work vs family/personal story. I definitely plan on going back to read the first two now!
2 reviews3 followers
July 2, 2021
First book I have read in the series or any by this author. Book works really well as a stand alone. I didn’t even realize it was part of a series until searching the author for mor books. Was a great read. Will be reading more by this author.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,735 reviews39 followers
August 4, 2021
I think I’ve finally found my groove with this series. I adore Puleston’s other series (Inspector Drake) but was just luke warm about this series until last book where I warmed up to the main character (Inspector Marco). But this book had more action and character development and insight into human behavior. I really enjoyed it.

Marco is such a flawed man. He has so many things to work on and he’s not the kind of person who can tackle all of it at once. He’s managed to quit drinking and his nicotine levels drop book by book. The end of the previous book left him regretting all the time he missed out on being an active dad and we open this book with him just returning from spending a lengthy vacation in Italy with his son Dean. Now Marco has his philandering ways to look at. He does enjoy the chase but can he stay loyal to one woman for a great length of time? Maybe….

Not even a new boss and a difficult case can keep Marco from looking for a romantic distraction. The new boss, Hobbs, and Marco don’t really like each other and that makes working the new case even harder. Hobbs doesn’t trust Marco’s hunches, making his job that much harder. Though I too wasn’t sure Marco’s initial hunches about who the killer is were valid either. (Don’t look at me like that Marco; lots of people didn’t trust your hunch either).

While the story has a good pace to begin with, it really picks up once Marco’s family is threatened. There’s a fire and this in turn lights a fire under Marco to catch the killer. But he’s digging into the past a bit and some people are pushing back. Lots of exciting stuff happens in the second half of the book and the pace does a great job ramping up to the conclusion of the case. A satisfying end! 5/5 stars.

The Narration: Joseph Tweedale is still doing a great job with this series. He’s the perfect match for Marco and I like his other character voices as well. He has enough variation to give each character their own unique voice. The ladies sound like ladies too. The pacing is good and there were no tech issues with this recording. 5/5 stars.

I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are 100% my own.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,504 reviews15 followers
August 27, 2018
DI Marco is a determined detective who will go to any length to find the bad guy. His determination can get him into trouble at times but he will get his guy. His team will stand by him even if they don’t agree with his ways at times.

When Felix Bevard is found murdered in a back room of a restaurant the investigation will lead DI Marco and his team to a previous murder and the main suspect has an alibi that seems to be ironclad. The main suspect has a history with the victim and his associates are involved in more than what everyone is aware of.

DI Marco and his team will go back to a cold case to solve the murder of Felix. This book is full of twists and suspense. The determination of DI Marco and his detective work is beyond reproach and he pours his heart and soul into his job. Although he is now beginning to realize that there is more to life than his job and he wants to spend more time with his son and his parents.

I have enjoyed reading the DI Marco books and I hope there are more to come in the future. He’s a great detective and police officer. He doesn’t cut corners when he’s investigating a crime and he won’t let anyone working on his team or for his team cut corners either. He’s determined to solve his cases and his team works very well together and very hard for DI Marco. They may not always agree with his methods or working all weekend long, but they won’t say anything to DI Marco to contradict him.

I highly recommend these books to anyone who likes crime dramas, police procedural stories, or suspense stories. The twists in this story kept me guessing and trying to find the suspect right along with DI Marco. I give this story a 4.5 star review and hope to read more of Mr. Puleston’s books in the near future.
Profile Image for Rosemary.
3,881 reviews71 followers
April 2, 2018
Somebody Told Me - a review by Rosemary Kenny

Marco's been on a summer holiday with his son Dean and returns to plunge straight back into the deep end at work, as SIO of the murder of petty crook Felix Bevard. His widow Gloria is quick to point the finger at her husband's criminal associate, gang leader Jimmy Walsh, an idea that is quickly discredited as Walsh is still in prison from his previous conviction. When another, (seemingly unconnected) murder victim - corrupt prison officer Brian Yelland - is found, shot in the same way, Marco needs evidence and a conviction - fast!

Where is Felix Bevard's body found? Why was he to have been enrolled in the Witness Protection Scheme?
Who has been temporarily promoted in Marco's absence - and how does he feel about this?
Why was Brian Yelland murdered?
What happens to Jack Ledley and how does it relate to the murders Marco is investigating?
Who terrorised Marco's family? When is he offered a deal by Marco - and why?
Does it have the necessary result?

Stephen Puleston's spectacular storyline cements his position as Prince of Police Procedural Thrillers, with its believable, engaging characters,
dramatic all-action scenes and the panoramic settings that bring this exciting story to the eager murder mystery-thriller fan in a 5-star drama!
Get your copy while you can - they're sure to sell like hot cakes!
Profile Image for Simon Leonard.
510 reviews9 followers
August 1, 2018
This is book 3 in the John Marco series, and they keep getting better.  As it is book 3 it would help if you have read the first two but isn't essential as you can quite quickly catch up with what has happened previously.

After reading the 'back of the book' I knew this was not going to be an easily solved murder as it involves gangs and murderers who couldn't possibly have done it.

This book is different to most of the police procedural books I have read as we are 99% that we know who the murderer is, just not how he did it, we do know the why though, which helps.

As I read the book I really enjoyed the interactions between Marco and his new temporary boss, who he has history with, and also the way all the characters interact in a natural seeming way.

I also liked the way Stephen brings Marco's private life into the story with their lives being in danger as the book progresses.

Overall this is yet another brilliant read by Stephen and I can't wait to read more of the series.
Profile Image for Donna Maguire.
4,895 reviews120 followers
July 28, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

This is the third book in the DI Marco series and I have to say that I think the books are getting better and better and this is a very entertaining series!!

I love the characters in the series and the way that they interact. There are some brilliant people in Marco's team and he has a new boss in this one too - definitely not a loving relationship there which helped add some sparks to the story!

I really enjoyed the plot and the developments as the story progressed. Loved the twists and turns in the plot and the ending was excellent - five stars from me for this one - another fantastic addition to the series!!
Profile Image for Susan.
7,275 reviews69 followers
July 9, 2020
A body has been found in a store room, shot several times. The victim Felix Bevard, was a local gangster. The prime suspect is Jimmy Walsh, a rival gangster. But he has a solid alibi, he's in jail. Is the death connected to his plans to Bevard's plans to go into witness protection. Is there any connection to a cold case that Marco starts to investigate.
So DI Marco and his team investigate with the added problem that his new acting DCI is someone he dislikes.
Another enjoyable and well-written crime story, with its likeable characters. Another good addition to the series
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for mary arnold.
438 reviews
October 18, 2020
Marco has just come back from holiday with his parents and son. He and his team investigate the death of a criminal in the backroom of a restaurant. They dig into his background and find that he was involved with even worse criminals. The most promising suspect in this murder is already in prison, causing Marco to wonder if there is corruption in the system. Marco's thoroughness is what makes him a great investigator and respected by his team, but he has a new boss who doesn't always agree. Twists and turns keep you reading until the end.
112 reviews3 followers
July 16, 2021
I really enjoyed the third audiobook in this series. Marco is just back from holiday and straight into investigating a gangland killing. With the prime suspect already in prison and his friends and family having alibi's, how was the murder arranged? Bringing in a case from the past, a nightmare new temporary boss and threats to his own family, Marco has to unravel all the threads before danger knocks too loudly on his own door. As the series has developed you have started to get to know much more of his character and those around him are gradually being developed more. Another good, fast paced story from this author with a great narrator.
26 reviews
August 17, 2021
If I could, I'd give this 4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this 3rd installment (not inc the prequel) of the Inspector Marco series (which needs to be read in order). Its a great story, which kept me guessing. I like Marco, though do think he should use please and thank you more 😂! I love that its written in 1st person, so we discover things with Marco. I listened to the audiobook, and think Joseph Tweedale is perfect, he is Marco for me. Massively recommend.
12 reviews
September 23, 2019
Another great series

I struggled a little at first after reading the Drake series, but I am glad I persevered. Now I have to wait for the next in either series and I hope they come soon.
Great author who brings you into the story with great twists and turns. So glad I took a punt on Stephen’s books.
I wish Stephen the very best in future books, I’ll definitely keep reading.
735 reviews13 followers
October 23, 2020
I enjoyed the book. It kept me interested and intrigued and wondering if justice would be served. I like DI Marco. His dedication to the job is inspiring and the story feels real, as though you are there with him. Puleston does an excellent job with his character and the world he inhabits.

I received this book for free and wished to leave a review.
Profile Image for Donna.
378 reviews4 followers
February 12, 2019
Would recommend

I love my UK crime and still very much enjoying this series. It's well written with great characters, the main crime story has got some good turns in it and I'm looking forward to the next one!
Profile Image for Monty Bates.
213 reviews18 followers
January 30, 2020
Outstanding Detective Work

All I can say is that I really like the way this author can weave a detective novel! Everything is so well thought out and he keeps you on the edge of your seat. I heartily recommend this book to anyone who likes to curl up with a good mystery.
Profile Image for Chaplain Stanley Chapin.
1,978 reviews22 followers
April 26, 2021
Intriguing mystery

The use of some Wales words and phrases was interesting. Disappointed in outcome as a murder goes free, if the system of witness relocation is the same in the USA, I will be upset with our legal system.
16 reviews
Read
February 21, 2025
The main character DS cross has Asbergers the continual refering to this gets a little tedious. I gather this is a series of books featuring this same DS Cross. I will not be buying any more of this series
293 reviews6 followers
April 29, 2018
somebody told me

i love the marco series. its not a simple story. there are a lot of different things going on at the same time. to me this makes it very interesting.
485 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2018
The Inspector Marco books are enjoyable police procedurals with enough drama from Marco's personal life to to give you quite a feel for who Marco is.
Profile Image for Joan Reid.
66 reviews
May 31, 2019
Very good story

I liked the continuity of the story it made good reading look forward to more books by Stephen very soon
43 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2019
Ten out of ten yet again

Yet another ex story from a very talented writer I loved it great plot and many twists on the way just very very good
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