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Inspector Drake #7
Nowhere To Hide
When drug addict Dawn Piper is found dead in her own home, her neighbours are far from surprised. Dawn's habit led her to mix with some dangerous people. But this quiet mother of one was small fry ...would anyone want Dawn dead?
Inspector Drake knows there is more to Dawn's murder than a simple drug deal gone wrong. As he digs deeper, he discovers that Dawn hoped to clean up the streets of her community that are being overrun by drugs and the dangerous County Lines gangs that sell them. And it cost her her life. Have the police force failed the community they serve?
Drake is used to the murky world of organised crime groups. He knows the dirty games they play to evade arrest. But in his toughest case to date Drake is determined to make the guilty pay.
This time, they will have nowhere to hide"
Inspector Drake knows there is more to Dawn's murder than a simple drug deal gone wrong. As he digs deeper, he discovers that Dawn hoped to clean up the streets of her community that are being overrun by drugs and the dangerous County Lines gangs that sell them. And it cost her her life. Have the police force failed the community they serve?
Drake is used to the murky world of organised crime groups. He knows the dirty games they play to evade arrest. But in his toughest case to date Drake is determined to make the guilty pay.
This time, they will have nowhere to hide"
ebook
Published July 1, 2019
231 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Stephen Puleston
50 books298 followersI write mysteries and thrillers.
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
I have published the first novel in a series featuring Inspector Drake based in North Wales and also the first in a series with Inspector John Marco based in Cardiff. The first Drake mystery is called BRASS IN POCKET and the second WORSE THAN DEAD. The third, AGAINST THE TIDE.
My second detective is Inspector Marco who comes from an Italian/Welsh background and he lives in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. The first Inspector Marco novel SPEECHLESS has been published on Amazon and the second and third in the series will be published in 2015.
Before turning to crime fiction I had written three other unpublished novels and you can read about my writing and about Wales, one of the most beautiful countries in the world, on my website http://www.stephenpuleston.co.uk/
I was brought up on the Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast and went to school in Holyhead. After a degree in Theology from London University I decided to train as a lawyer and returned to work in the practice run by my father on Anglesey. For many years I worked as a lawyer in a small practice representing clients in the criminal courts and doing divorce work all of which has given me valuable raw material for my novels.
I still live and work in North Wales where the Inspector Drake novels are set.
You can contact me on twitter @stephenpuleston or @inspector_marco
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/17G6iIA
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
July 25, 2019
When Dawn Piper's body is found in her apartment, it's very evident she was stabbed to death, but somewhere else.
Ian Drake and his team have been called in to investigate. What they discover could have some severe consequences for the entire community.
Dawn and a small group of friends have tried to get out from under the thumbs of two major drug empires. As with most drug lords, once in, in forever.
Drake has been trying to take down the drug empires for a long time, but hasn't managed to get very far. It looks like Dawn was trying to either blackmail the drug dealers, or not at the very least, turn them against each other.
Just when Drake thinks he has things under control, one of Dawn's friends is found murdered... in the same way as she was killed.
As all of this author's books, this one is action packed with suspense that just doesn't let up. The characters are memorable. I especially liked to see a blend of Drake's personal and professional life. He and his team relate well to each other.
Many thanks to the author / Books n All Book Promotions for the advanced digital copy of this well written crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Ian Drake and his team have been called in to investigate. What they discover could have some severe consequences for the entire community.
Dawn and a small group of friends have tried to get out from under the thumbs of two major drug empires. As with most drug lords, once in, in forever.
Drake has been trying to take down the drug empires for a long time, but hasn't managed to get very far. It looks like Dawn was trying to either blackmail the drug dealers, or not at the very least, turn them against each other.
Just when Drake thinks he has things under control, one of Dawn's friends is found murdered... in the same way as she was killed.
As all of this author's books, this one is action packed with suspense that just doesn't let up. The characters are memorable. I especially liked to see a blend of Drake's personal and professional life. He and his team relate well to each other.
Many thanks to the author / Books n All Book Promotions for the advanced digital copy of this well written crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, the opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 30, 2019
Book 7
Inspector Drake is back and this time he is out to obtain justice for the people society has let down.
The body of a young woman is found in her home but that is not where she was killed. Drake and his team have the difficult task of finding out why she was murdered and who killed her. As an ex addict (or is she) she has mixed with the underworld of drugs and violence but even so a life has been lost and a young boy motherless so Drake is determined to get answers. 2 other girls go missing while in the care of the state. Are the 2 cases linked or separate? Either way Drake will see justice is done.
Drake has struggled with life. He has serious OCD and has worked to keep it under control but it cost him his marriage. But now he has Annie and in addition to a very demanding job he is working hard to make the relationship work. He also has to cope with upcoming changes at work as the superior officer he has developed an effective relationship with moves on Drake has to start again with somebody new.
As the team dive in to the investigation Drake finds that someone is out to scare him off. As the people who he cares about are put at risk can he unravel the clues before someone gets seriously hurt?
This is a steady paced mystery that gets into the nitty gritty of detective work. We follow the team in looking for clues where there are very few and round many twists and turns making it a very engaging read that is perfect for police procedural fans.
Inspector Drake is back and this time he is out to obtain justice for the people society has let down.
The body of a young woman is found in her home but that is not where she was killed. Drake and his team have the difficult task of finding out why she was murdered and who killed her. As an ex addict (or is she) she has mixed with the underworld of drugs and violence but even so a life has been lost and a young boy motherless so Drake is determined to get answers. 2 other girls go missing while in the care of the state. Are the 2 cases linked or separate? Either way Drake will see justice is done.
Drake has struggled with life. He has serious OCD and has worked to keep it under control but it cost him his marriage. But now he has Annie and in addition to a very demanding job he is working hard to make the relationship work. He also has to cope with upcoming changes at work as the superior officer he has developed an effective relationship with moves on Drake has to start again with somebody new.
As the team dive in to the investigation Drake finds that someone is out to scare him off. As the people who he cares about are put at risk can he unravel the clues before someone gets seriously hurt?
This is a steady paced mystery that gets into the nitty gritty of detective work. We follow the team in looking for clues where there are very few and round many twists and turns making it a very engaging read that is perfect for police procedural fans.
August 1, 2019
Inspector Ian Drake is working on yet another case. He happens upon the disturbing scene of a murdered victim, drug addict Dawn Piper. Drake quickly discovers mixed reactions to her murder. As far as her neighbors are concerned, they feel that due to her lifestyle she brought this upon herself.
On the other hand, Drake discovers that Dawn had an agenda. It was her intent to clean up the local streets, even if this meant her raising the ire and attention of local gangs. There was one gang in particular, with a notorious crime leader that always managed to avoid the clutches of the police that seems likely to be a top suspect. What is more is that things are not as they should be with the very police force Drake is a part of.
Drake and his team work as vigorously as possible, turning over every clue. Some of the things they discover are quite shattering and rather far reaching. This becomes rather frustrating to Drake because he has been after some of the very people that have been in his path for quite some time.
Despite their best efforts, Drake is quite disturbed when he discovers that one of Dawn's friends has been murdered. So, he casts his net wider and leaves no stone unturned.
What a fast-moving novel. It is full of intrigue and danger. Even though this Nowhere to Hide is the 7th book in a series that I hadn't read before, I was able to see a bit of Drake becoming a changed man due to being in a relationship. This no doubt has had a powerful impact on his team. I enjoyed this book and do look forward to continuing this series in the future.
Many thanks to Stephen Puleston and to Books n All for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
On the other hand, Drake discovers that Dawn had an agenda. It was her intent to clean up the local streets, even if this meant her raising the ire and attention of local gangs. There was one gang in particular, with a notorious crime leader that always managed to avoid the clutches of the police that seems likely to be a top suspect. What is more is that things are not as they should be with the very police force Drake is a part of.
Drake and his team work as vigorously as possible, turning over every clue. Some of the things they discover are quite shattering and rather far reaching. This becomes rather frustrating to Drake because he has been after some of the very people that have been in his path for quite some time.
Despite their best efforts, Drake is quite disturbed when he discovers that one of Dawn's friends has been murdered. So, he casts his net wider and leaves no stone unturned.
What a fast-moving novel. It is full of intrigue and danger. Even though this Nowhere to Hide is the 7th book in a series that I hadn't read before, I was able to see a bit of Drake becoming a changed man due to being in a relationship. This no doubt has had a powerful impact on his team. I enjoyed this book and do look forward to continuing this series in the future.
Many thanks to Stephen Puleston and to Books n All for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 30, 2019
This is the seventh in Stephen Puleston's police series featuring Ian Drake as the main detective character and I believe these books are developing well. We read that Drake is feeling happier in his home life now that his wife has gone and he is living with Annie; he is coping better with his OCD; he is working well with his team and he has a holiday to look forward to. The only black cloud on the horizon is the retirement of the Superintendent and the arrival of the new one, Hobbs, who seems to have something of a reputation amongst those who have worked with him.
Drake hasn't time to worry over this as a young woman is found dead in her home, although she has been stabbed elsewhere. Drugs are soon found to be at the root of this murder, especially the growth of the 'county lines' problem which seems to be spreading countrywide. Then two more girls go missing and Drake has a fight on his hands to solve this before those closest to him are threatened.
This is a fast-moving story with very accurate police procedure and wonderful descriptions of the Welsh countryside where the story is set. The whole series gets better with every book.
Drake hasn't time to worry over this as a young woman is found dead in her home, although she has been stabbed elsewhere. Drugs are soon found to be at the root of this murder, especially the growth of the 'county lines' problem which seems to be spreading countrywide. Then two more girls go missing and Drake has a fight on his hands to solve this before those closest to him are threatened.
This is a fast-moving story with very accurate police procedure and wonderful descriptions of the Welsh countryside where the story is set. The whole series gets better with every book.
March 30, 2020
Inspector Drake is back and has to investigate the murder of a drug addict in Deeside, and the death is linked to County Lines drug gangs. Once again Mr Puleston has delivered a well written, exciting police procedural which had me hooked from the start.
Drake’s personal life is much improved in this book and his relationship with Annie is going strong. The only cloud on the horizon is the imminent retirement of Superintendant Price, as his replacement seems to have a bad reputation, and I feel he could make problems for Drake in the future.
This is a fast paced read/listen with a glorious setting, interesting characters, and the fabulous narration by Richard Elfyn is the cherry on the cake.!
Drake’s personal life is much improved in this book and his relationship with Annie is going strong. The only cloud on the horizon is the imminent retirement of Superintendant Price, as his replacement seems to have a bad reputation, and I feel he could make problems for Drake in the future.
This is a fast paced read/listen with a glorious setting, interesting characters, and the fabulous narration by Richard Elfyn is the cherry on the cake.!
August 11, 2019
4 stars
Ian Drake's relationship with his girlfriend is going well and his daughters like her. Drake catches himself now and then seemingly ignoring how his girlfriend feels about things. Fortunately, he catches this where he might not have before.
Dawn Piper is the victim. She was stabbed before her body was returned to her filthy house. Evidence shows that she was a drug user, although lately she has been involved in fighting drug pushers according to her family and friends.
The biggest drug pusher in the area is the Beltrami family. The police have been watching them for a long time and DI Ian Drake believes that the Beltramis or their minions look good for Dawn's murder.
As the painstaking police investigation continues, it all becomes personal for Drake. That is the hallmark of Mr. Puleston's writing. The investigation is detailed in every aspect as the team talks over different suspects and theories. It is a thorough and careful sifting through the clues and folllowing leads. The characters are human in this book. They all have the little foibles and points of view. I appreciate that very much. I don't like my cops to be wooden or have no personality. Mr. Puleston balances the work to personal life ratio very well. We learn about the main characters' personal lives a bit, but not so much that it intrudes on the story.
Books that focus on drug running or drug taking are not really my thing. I prefer to not have anything to do with it. (Give me straightforward murder and mayhem please.)
I want to thank Mr. Stephen Puleston for forwarding to me an advance copy of this wonderful book for me to read, enjoy and review.
Ian Drake's relationship with his girlfriend is going well and his daughters like her. Drake catches himself now and then seemingly ignoring how his girlfriend feels about things. Fortunately, he catches this where he might not have before.
Dawn Piper is the victim. She was stabbed before her body was returned to her filthy house. Evidence shows that she was a drug user, although lately she has been involved in fighting drug pushers according to her family and friends.
The biggest drug pusher in the area is the Beltrami family. The police have been watching them for a long time and DI Ian Drake believes that the Beltramis or their minions look good for Dawn's murder.
As the painstaking police investigation continues, it all becomes personal for Drake. That is the hallmark of Mr. Puleston's writing. The investigation is detailed in every aspect as the team talks over different suspects and theories. It is a thorough and careful sifting through the clues and folllowing leads. The characters are human in this book. They all have the little foibles and points of view. I appreciate that very much. I don't like my cops to be wooden or have no personality. Mr. Puleston balances the work to personal life ratio very well. We learn about the main characters' personal lives a bit, but not so much that it intrudes on the story.
Books that focus on drug running or drug taking are not really my thing. I prefer to not have anything to do with it. (Give me straightforward murder and mayhem please.)
I want to thank Mr. Stephen Puleston for forwarding to me an advance copy of this wonderful book for me to read, enjoy and review.
August 3, 2019
When the body of Dawn Piper is found in her house but evidence points to the fact she was killed elsewhere it starts Inspector Drake and his team on the road to an investigation they never dreamed it would go. They discover Dawn was trying to set up a vigilante like "club" against the drug dealers that ravage society.
This book is the latest in a series, number 7, in fact. It is able to be read without the rest, as I still found the characters relatable and understood that Drake is becoming more stable and happy due to a relationship.
The story is full of suspense and intrigue and a very readable story.
This book is the latest in a series, number 7, in fact. It is able to be read without the rest, as I still found the characters relatable and understood that Drake is becoming more stable and happy due to a relationship.
The story is full of suspense and intrigue and a very readable story.
April 10, 2020
I have been listening to a lot more audiobooks recently as I avoid watching too much TV and my reading has been slowing down. So when I was offered the opportunity to listen to the audiobook of Stephen Puleston’s Nowhere to Hide, I jumped at the chance.
This is the 7th in a series and although I have not read the others, I did not feel at a disadvantage and this worked fine as a stand-alone, though clearly there was a significant backstory I didn’t know.
Our protagonist is Detective Inspector Ian Drake, based in Deeside, North Wales. Drake works with DS Sara Morgan, DC Luned Thomas and DC Gareth Winder. Their Superintendent, Wyndham Price, is about to retire and Drake is concerned that the new appointment, Hobbs, will not be as easy to work with; his reputation is that of a man difficult to please.
Drake suffers from OCD, though that is improving now that he is in a new relationship with Annie and the pair are planning a much needed holiday, taking his kids to Disneyland, Paris.
The biggest problem facing the North Wales Police is drugs and the increasing supply coming in from England, which the police refer to as the ‘county lines’ problem. When Dawn Piper, a young woman and a recovering drug addict, is found dead in her flat and it’s clear she’s been killed somewhere else, Drake and Morgan investigate.
It’s pretty obvious to them that drugs are at the root of this murder and that Dawn’s death may be connected to local crime bosses. The local community are already up in arms about the drugs problem and then another death takes place, this time a friend of Dawn’s is murdered.
When Drake’s ex-wife is forced off the road, with his children in her car, Drake knows he has to find these killers before his family comes to serious harm.
Puleston writes a pacy novel and this police procedural is tense and twisty with a terrific sense of place.
Richard Elfyn’s narration is excellent. Fabulously and enthusiastically Welsh, he handles the different voices well and I could listen to his pronunciation of Caerphilly over and over.
Verdict: A solid and authentic police procedural with convincing characters and a strong and believable plot.
This is the 7th in a series and although I have not read the others, I did not feel at a disadvantage and this worked fine as a stand-alone, though clearly there was a significant backstory I didn’t know.
Our protagonist is Detective Inspector Ian Drake, based in Deeside, North Wales. Drake works with DS Sara Morgan, DC Luned Thomas and DC Gareth Winder. Their Superintendent, Wyndham Price, is about to retire and Drake is concerned that the new appointment, Hobbs, will not be as easy to work with; his reputation is that of a man difficult to please.
Drake suffers from OCD, though that is improving now that he is in a new relationship with Annie and the pair are planning a much needed holiday, taking his kids to Disneyland, Paris.
The biggest problem facing the North Wales Police is drugs and the increasing supply coming in from England, which the police refer to as the ‘county lines’ problem. When Dawn Piper, a young woman and a recovering drug addict, is found dead in her flat and it’s clear she’s been killed somewhere else, Drake and Morgan investigate.
It’s pretty obvious to them that drugs are at the root of this murder and that Dawn’s death may be connected to local crime bosses. The local community are already up in arms about the drugs problem and then another death takes place, this time a friend of Dawn’s is murdered.
When Drake’s ex-wife is forced off the road, with his children in her car, Drake knows he has to find these killers before his family comes to serious harm.
Puleston writes a pacy novel and this police procedural is tense and twisty with a terrific sense of place.
Richard Elfyn’s narration is excellent. Fabulously and enthusiastically Welsh, he handles the different voices well and I could listen to his pronunciation of Caerphilly over and over.
Verdict: A solid and authentic police procedural with convincing characters and a strong and believable plot.
November 5, 2023
Not the best in this North Wales police series, but still just worth 4 stars. Drugs form the background to 3 murders but with a number of viable suspects the investiation lacks momentum - the finale is worth waiting for.
January 28, 2020
What a great read
I love these books and what a great serial.hope there is more too come. Now too read the prequel book
I love these books and what a great serial.hope there is more too come. Now too read the prequel book
August 1, 2019
Another excellent and most enjoyable story featuring DI Ian Drake and his team of detectives in the Northern Division of the Welsh Police Service. The story begins where they are attending the discovery of the body of Dawn Piper in her home. As a drug addict, her neighbours tended to avoid her and could tell detectives little about her movements, but talks with friends and community workers reveal that Dawn was on a one woman mission to stop the dealers and prevent even more drugs coming in via the rumoured "county lines" gangs who are exploiting teenagers from across the border in England. Together with his close knit team of DS Sara Morgan, DC Luned Thomas and DC Gareth Winder, they are soon investigating more than just a simple murder and have three very good suspects, one of whom is very well known to them. Soon their enquiries are taking the case into a very murky world where the villains always seem to have the upper hand. As if he hasn't got enough to deal with, whilst Drake's personal life and OCD behaviour is settling down, he is under pressure from the media and local politicians. He is determined to make a success of his new relationship with Annie and not let it buckle under the strain of work like his marriage to Sian had, and he also worries about the impending retirement of Supt Wyndham Price who is to be replaced with the very unknown quantity that is Supt Hobbs. In fact Drake is struggling to find anyone who has a good word to say about the man just when it starts to look like they need a senior officer they can really rely on. Lots of twists and new pieces of evidence keep this story moving along at a great pace, with the discoveries coming in just like they would in a real investigation. Great story telling with well rounded characters and a very current plotline that will keep the reader hooked right up the last page. Highly recommended. 5*
July 23, 2019
This is DI Ian Drake's seventh outing; his stories get more compelling with each new story and I happily admit I am a huge fan. The procedural aspects of the book are excellent as usual, but there seemed to be more scenes with the three other members of his team taking the lead. His private life is also more settled and his hidden or not so hidden demons are controlled with his constant self analysis appearing to be far more positive. I have no idea if this will continue but with a new boss in the wings it seems unlikely!
When a young woman is found dead in her run down home it is Drake and a colleague who discover the body. From that moment their case centres around the increased county line drug and people smuggling where fear reigns supreme and the police have trouble keeping up. Add to that the effects of social deprivation and crippling funding cuts and Ian and his team are up against obstacles at every turn.
The Welsh countryside is always a star of these books and it is clear that the author both loves and is very familiar with the Principality and all its nuances. This time I was also familiar with most of the locations used which gave me quite a thrill.
The main characters are all well known now and so I look forward to reading more about the new superintendent, Dave Hobbs, in the next book as he definitely has more to offer for good or bad!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to the author in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who has read the previous books or enjoys a tightly written complex crime novel which doesn't have spoilers but does have authenticity and an understanding of the worrying crime trends our country is in the midst of.
When a young woman is found dead in her run down home it is Drake and a colleague who discover the body. From that moment their case centres around the increased county line drug and people smuggling where fear reigns supreme and the police have trouble keeping up. Add to that the effects of social deprivation and crippling funding cuts and Ian and his team are up against obstacles at every turn.
The Welsh countryside is always a star of these books and it is clear that the author both loves and is very familiar with the Principality and all its nuances. This time I was also familiar with most of the locations used which gave me quite a thrill.
The main characters are all well known now and so I look forward to reading more about the new superintendent, Dave Hobbs, in the next book as he definitely has more to offer for good or bad!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to the author in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who has read the previous books or enjoys a tightly written complex crime novel which doesn't have spoilers but does have authenticity and an understanding of the worrying crime trends our country is in the midst of.
July 24, 2019
Book 7 in this well-written British police procedural featuring Inspector Ian Drake of the Wales Police Service keeps up the taught pace, excellent story lines, and riveting action of the previous novels in the series.
Drake is trying to break up a drug ring, figure out why people are dying, who tried to kill his ex-wife, the whereabouts of two fragile juveniles, whether he can finally best his archnemesis, and how to get it all done and keep his new boss happy so he can make his vacation to Disneyland Paris with his two young daughters and his girlfriend. The plot involves involving drug running, drug addiction, human trafficking, office politics, online dating, zombies, and video game playing, all of it exciting.
I really enjoy this series and this author. Puleston excels at setting scenes, providing a sense of place, and building characters that seem very real to me. Drake still struggles with OCD, although he’s managing better in this book. Puleston does a great job in highlighting the condition, while treating Drake like a person with a disease, and showing how those obsessive qualities are the things that make Drake an excellent detective.
I particularly enjoy that none of the characters are superhuman, or take stupid chances. They instead rely on each other and traditional police work – grinding sometimes, but it’s often the repetition and the snapping to a particular clue previously overlooked (or a new clue discovered) that leads them to the solution. Also, there is a nice balance between crime solving, day-to-day life, and interaction between the characters.
I look forward to each new entry in this series and I will happily read this author as long as he chooses to write.
Drake is trying to break up a drug ring, figure out why people are dying, who tried to kill his ex-wife, the whereabouts of two fragile juveniles, whether he can finally best his archnemesis, and how to get it all done and keep his new boss happy so he can make his vacation to Disneyland Paris with his two young daughters and his girlfriend. The plot involves involving drug running, drug addiction, human trafficking, office politics, online dating, zombies, and video game playing, all of it exciting.
I really enjoy this series and this author. Puleston excels at setting scenes, providing a sense of place, and building characters that seem very real to me. Drake still struggles with OCD, although he’s managing better in this book. Puleston does a great job in highlighting the condition, while treating Drake like a person with a disease, and showing how those obsessive qualities are the things that make Drake an excellent detective.
I particularly enjoy that none of the characters are superhuman, or take stupid chances. They instead rely on each other and traditional police work – grinding sometimes, but it’s often the repetition and the snapping to a particular clue previously overlooked (or a new clue discovered) that leads them to the solution. Also, there is a nice balance between crime solving, day-to-day life, and interaction between the characters.
I look forward to each new entry in this series and I will happily read this author as long as he chooses to write.
August 31, 2019
When a new Stephen Puleston novel is released I know that it is time to clear my calendar and settle in with DI Drake as he pursues his next case. This seventh entry in the series brings him to Deeside, which has seen an increase in drug-related deaths. Dawn Piper, a former drug addict, is now working to expose those responsible for supplying drugs to the area. When she is found murdered, Drake and his team are given the case. With a new superintendent supervising Drake’s unit and a local politician berating the police for their lack of progress against the drug trade, Drake is under pressure to produce results.
Throughout this series, Puleston’s character has shown significant development. Suffering from OCD, his first marriage failed and his relationship was strained. In this latest story he is in a new relationship and working to find a balance between work and his family. He is successfully managing his compulsive behavior and now making more of an effort to relate to his team. As the investigation continues the body count grows and his family is threatened, making him even more determined to find those responsible.
This is a fascinating police procedural. The tedium of viewing traffic and security tapes and reviewing bank and phone records is offset by the excitement of discovery and each bit of evidence coming together, ending in a final confrontation containing an unexpected twist.
This series just gets better with each entry. Fans of the series will welcome Drake’s return while those who are new to the series will find themselves looking forward to further future entries in the series. I received a copy of Nowhere to Hide from the author in exchange for my review. As a long-time fan I was happy to offer my honest opinion.
Throughout this series, Puleston’s character has shown significant development. Suffering from OCD, his first marriage failed and his relationship was strained. In this latest story he is in a new relationship and working to find a balance between work and his family. He is successfully managing his compulsive behavior and now making more of an effort to relate to his team. As the investigation continues the body count grows and his family is threatened, making him even more determined to find those responsible.
This is a fascinating police procedural. The tedium of viewing traffic and security tapes and reviewing bank and phone records is offset by the excitement of discovery and each bit of evidence coming together, ending in a final confrontation containing an unexpected twist.
This series just gets better with each entry. Fans of the series will welcome Drake’s return while those who are new to the series will find themselves looking forward to further future entries in the series. I received a copy of Nowhere to Hide from the author in exchange for my review. As a long-time fan I was happy to offer my honest opinion.
July 7, 2024
Nowhere to Hide - a Verified Purchase review by Rosemary Kenny.
The 7th in the excellent Inspector Drake series, Nowhere to Hide, is set in North Wales, UK, where the author Stephen Puleston lives.
Inspector Ian Drake is a senior Homicide officer in the North Wales Police.
Surly on first acquaintance, Drake's 'married' to his career and his OCD needs set routines - a major factor in his divorce and similarly problematic relationship with his current partner, Annie.
Drake's long-term boss and friend, Superintendent Wyndam Price has retired and adjusting to the new Superintendent, Hobbs, takes him a while to get used to.
Drake and his team, (Detective Sergeant Sara Gilbert, Detective Winder and IT specialist Luned) are investigating a series of rival drug gang-related murders, of police informants and a social worker, who was trying to reform local addicts.
Police do their best to unmask the crime families' involvement, despite a corrupt politician (seeking election on a 'clean up crime' manifesto), trying to demonise them in the press.
A fast-moving crime-thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while it tackles the very relevant topic of drug addiction and associated crimes, Nowhere to Hide is a well-written, intelligently plotted novel, with engaging characters that are believable and soon become familiar...don't miss it!
The 7th in the excellent Inspector Drake series, Nowhere to Hide, is set in North Wales, UK, where the author Stephen Puleston lives.
Inspector Ian Drake is a senior Homicide officer in the North Wales Police.
Surly on first acquaintance, Drake's 'married' to his career and his OCD needs set routines - a major factor in his divorce and similarly problematic relationship with his current partner, Annie.
Drake's long-term boss and friend, Superintendent Wyndam Price has retired and adjusting to the new Superintendent, Hobbs, takes him a while to get used to.
Drake and his team, (Detective Sergeant Sara Gilbert, Detective Winder and IT specialist Luned) are investigating a series of rival drug gang-related murders, of police informants and a social worker, who was trying to reform local addicts.
Police do their best to unmask the crime families' involvement, despite a corrupt politician (seeking election on a 'clean up crime' manifesto), trying to demonise them in the press.
A fast-moving crime-thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, while it tackles the very relevant topic of drug addiction and associated crimes, Nowhere to Hide is a well-written, intelligently plotted novel, with engaging characters that are believable and soon become familiar...don't miss it!
July 26, 2019
This is a brilliant addition to the series, with a drug addict being found murdered in her house and the local residents all claiming that she upset the wrong person and had it coming to her.
As Drake and his team investigate they release all is not as it seems and she has in fact been trying to get away from the drug scene, which Drake has also been trying to shut down for a while,.
Whilst investigating Dawn's murder, one of her close friends also turns up dead in the same way, so Drake has to investigate that as well.
All through the book there is a lot of action and stuff going on, which keeps the story flowing nicely and kept me hooked and wanting to read the next chapter each time I got to the end of one
As with all previous 6 books this one can be read as a stand alone, although you do get a lot more back story if you have read the previous ones first. This book delves more into the person that is Inspector Drake, and I really like the way that Stephen has written him, not too perfect but without many issues.
Overall this is a brilliant book and I am really enjoying the character of Drake and his team. The lovely Welsh landscape helps with the story as well.
As Drake and his team investigate they release all is not as it seems and she has in fact been trying to get away from the drug scene, which Drake has also been trying to shut down for a while,.
Whilst investigating Dawn's murder, one of her close friends also turns up dead in the same way, so Drake has to investigate that as well.
All through the book there is a lot of action and stuff going on, which keeps the story flowing nicely and kept me hooked and wanting to read the next chapter each time I got to the end of one
As with all previous 6 books this one can be read as a stand alone, although you do get a lot more back story if you have read the previous ones first. This book delves more into the person that is Inspector Drake, and I really like the way that Stephen has written him, not too perfect but without many issues.
Overall this is a brilliant book and I am really enjoying the character of Drake and his team. The lovely Welsh landscape helps with the story as well.
July 25, 2019
This is a great read detailing another dramatic episode in the career of Inspector Drake. This time he is going up against the so-called 'county lines' drug dealers who will stop at nothing to protect their 'businesses'.
Alongside the really well written police investigation by the team, there is the more personal story of Drake and his family and for me this is equally well written and provides a lot more depth to the story as a whole. I like that his OCD is becoming less of an issue as he gets more settled in his private life, and also better at man-management, never his strongest suite in the past. As always with this series the landscape of Wales takes a central role and is described with a real flair and an obvious passion for the area.
There are lots of twists and turns and false starts to the investigation and a lot of excitement as well, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who loves mysteries and police procedurals, but with more depth than is usual in these genres.
I received a complimentary advance copy of the book and have voluntarily written this honest review.
Alongside the really well written police investigation by the team, there is the more personal story of Drake and his family and for me this is equally well written and provides a lot more depth to the story as a whole. I like that his OCD is becoming less of an issue as he gets more settled in his private life, and also better at man-management, never his strongest suite in the past. As always with this series the landscape of Wales takes a central role and is described with a real flair and an obvious passion for the area.
There are lots of twists and turns and false starts to the investigation and a lot of excitement as well, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who loves mysteries and police procedurals, but with more depth than is usual in these genres.
I received a complimentary advance copy of the book and have voluntarily written this honest review.
July 24, 2019
Another interesting police procedural from Stephen Puleston. Ian Drake and his colleagues are tasked with solving murders linked to the county line drug trade in Wales. The description of Welsh towns and the countryside definitely add a colorful aspect to the plot. Drake has a new love, Annie, and his ex-wife Sian also makes an appearance. The ending surprised me. My only minor complaint is there were a lot of characters, and this required some effort to remember who they were and how they were connected to the story. Drake’s OCD tendencies are not emphasized nearly as much as in earlier books in the series, which is excellent. Drake’s work colleagues get more attention, and this is a great contribution. A new superintendent is introduced, which I suspect will be a challenge to Drake in future books. I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I enjoy Mr. Puleston’s style and would recommend it to anyone who likes mysteries related to police work.
July 23, 2019
This is an Inspector Drake novel well thought out, likeable character a little bit of OCD but getting better, and now he has a new love in his life. This story starts with a murder and the author has a good knack of painting a picture of the victims and started with this poor soul a drug addict always trying to get herself clean to no avail, quite an intricate story and Puleston does get it right. A good story believeable and very little swear words if any, good procedures, likeable well described characters great story. One of his best.
July 25, 2019
Sergeant Jim Finch, after a consultative meeting, takes Inspector Drake to meet someone relating to the previous meeting. But on arriving at her home they find that she has been brutally murderered.
Does this have anything to do with her previous involvement with the drug scene in the area or her latest activity of trying to monitor the scene. But will this be the last murder.
A very enjoyable read. It is an interesting police procedural and a well-written story, with a cast of varied well-developed characters.
Received an ARC from the author
Does this have anything to do with her previous involvement with the drug scene in the area or her latest activity of trying to monitor the scene. But will this be the last murder.
A very enjoyable read. It is an interesting police procedural and a well-written story, with a cast of varied well-developed characters.
Received an ARC from the author
July 22, 2019
This is Stephen Puleston's latest Inspector Drake book. An excellent read as usual. Love the description of North Wales that is the setting for these stories.
Here he introduces a character from his books set in South Wales, one Superintendent Hobbs. I'm sure inspector John Marco from the South Wales police force was delighted to see the back of him!
Here he introduces a character from his books set in South Wales, one Superintendent Hobbs. I'm sure inspector John Marco from the South Wales police force was delighted to see the back of him!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2019
Brilliant addition to this cracking series. As Drake and company try to investigate the country lines drugs gangs things get very close to home. The main plot is excellent as is the development of the characters and the subplot continues to delight too. An excellent series that gets better and better
July 24, 2019
Gritty Welsh police crime story. When drugs, and then murder, take over a small village, Detective Inspector Ian Drake and his team fight the media and politicians to solve the crime. A mix of old fashion police work, forensics, and computers. I was gifted this from the author.
July 25, 2019
Ian Drake and his partner Sara are the detectives investigating the crimes. A series of murders where the victims are stabbed to death. The disappearance of two young girls. A black Audi is seen near where the crimes were committed. This novel will keep you guessing. It will not disappoint.
July 25, 2019
Love this series, it gets better and better, I love where it's based in North Wales.
April 20, 2020
Inspector Drake gets pulled back into the world of drugs and organized crime. He’s fought this fight before and it was a draw. Now is his chance to finish addressing this issue from his past and make the streets a little safer. However, this time he has an angry, uncooperative community to deal with. They feel the police force has ignored their needs for far too long and many blame the government and police for not eliminating drugs from their neighborhoods. I really liked this aspect of the story because not every community is happy to work with the law because they feel let down by it.
Drake is a fastidious man, very neat, very tidy. And for several books now I have wondered how he manages to have intimate relations. There’s proof he has done so (2 daughters) but I always pictured him fully dressed with a stack of clean wipes to the side to make sure everything stays neat and tidy. Well, in this book we get a very brief love scene that does a little to answer these questions. Still, I bet he showers directly after.
The mystery itself is a great rollercoaster of suspects, victims, bodies, drugs, and grumpy people. Just as they start to get their hands around one body, another drops. The community feels the local police aren’t interested in doing anything until there’s a body. Hence, much of the community isn’t jumping up to help Drake and his team with their investigation. As they dig into the first murder, it looks like the victim was trying to do something to get drugs out of the community. With this realization, the possible culprits narrow to those supplying the drugs. While this victim wasn’t perfect, she was trying to make a positive difference.
I loved the zombie bit. Our first victim is a zombie fan and really liked her zombie computer games, movies, and this newly opened zombie boat. Yep, a ship that has been set up as a zombie experience. Drake doesn’t get it but he and his team diligently look into it, as with all aspects of the victim.
In this book, we see that Drake has continued to grow as a person. His ex-wife and daughters are threatened by whoever is behind the murder. And later, with the daugthers staying with Drake and his girlfriend (Anne), their house is vandalized. Drake does a good job of reassuring his ex and his daughters, but he forgets to consider how this might be affecting Anne. Yet when it comes up, he immediately sees his mistake and how to fix it. In the past, he would have had trouble processing this and would have bungled about trying to make it better. Yay Drake!
The last bit of the story ramps up the pace and the tension. An old enemy has raised their ugly mug and Drake can taste sweet victory! But then one action changes everything and Drake can see how he missed this big piece and now he has limited time to catch this hidden culprit. Very satisfying end. 5/5 stars.
Narration: Richard Elfyn continues to give us a gripping and talented performance. I love his voice for Drake and Elfyn captures Drake’s ability to switch between Welsh and English with ease. Elfyn is very talented with all the regional accents described in the book and I feel educated after listening to this series. His female character voices are feminine and his little kid voices are good too. The pacing is perfect and there are no tech issues with the recording. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book. My opinions are 100% my own.
Drake is a fastidious man, very neat, very tidy. And for several books now I have wondered how he manages to have intimate relations. There’s proof he has done so (2 daughters) but I always pictured him fully dressed with a stack of clean wipes to the side to make sure everything stays neat and tidy. Well, in this book we get a very brief love scene that does a little to answer these questions. Still, I bet he showers directly after.
The mystery itself is a great rollercoaster of suspects, victims, bodies, drugs, and grumpy people. Just as they start to get their hands around one body, another drops. The community feels the local police aren’t interested in doing anything until there’s a body. Hence, much of the community isn’t jumping up to help Drake and his team with their investigation. As they dig into the first murder, it looks like the victim was trying to do something to get drugs out of the community. With this realization, the possible culprits narrow to those supplying the drugs. While this victim wasn’t perfect, she was trying to make a positive difference.
I loved the zombie bit. Our first victim is a zombie fan and really liked her zombie computer games, movies, and this newly opened zombie boat. Yep, a ship that has been set up as a zombie experience. Drake doesn’t get it but he and his team diligently look into it, as with all aspects of the victim.
In this book, we see that Drake has continued to grow as a person. His ex-wife and daughters are threatened by whoever is behind the murder. And later, with the daugthers staying with Drake and his girlfriend (Anne), their house is vandalized. Drake does a good job of reassuring his ex and his daughters, but he forgets to consider how this might be affecting Anne. Yet when it comes up, he immediately sees his mistake and how to fix it. In the past, he would have had trouble processing this and would have bungled about trying to make it better. Yay Drake!
The last bit of the story ramps up the pace and the tension. An old enemy has raised their ugly mug and Drake can taste sweet victory! But then one action changes everything and Drake can see how he missed this big piece and now he has limited time to catch this hidden culprit. Very satisfying end. 5/5 stars.
Narration: Richard Elfyn continues to give us a gripping and talented performance. I love his voice for Drake and Elfyn captures Drake’s ability to switch between Welsh and English with ease. Elfyn is very talented with all the regional accents described in the book and I feel educated after listening to this series. His female character voices are feminine and his little kid voices are good too. The pacing is perfect and there are no tech issues with the recording. 5/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book. My opinions are 100% my own.
April 9, 2020
I am a huge audio book fan, but Nowhere To Hide is actually the first time I have listened to one which is a police procedural - and what a fabulous place to start!
Although this book is actually the seventh one in the Stephen Puleston's Inspector Drake series, it works extremely well as a stand-alone, which is good because I have not read any others in the series....yet!
The story concentrates on the murder of a small time drug addict, whose murder turns out to be much more of a complex affair that it first appears. As Inspector Drake and his trusty team investigate Dawn's death, some rather worrying facts come to light that seem to link it to the rise in the County Lines drug trafficking problem and despite their efforts, more bodies appear before they can get to the bottom of whoever is behind the crimes - and the violence comes much too close to home for Inspector Drake's liking.
The audio book is narrated by Richard Elfyn, who manages all the accents rather well and pronounces the Welsh place names oh so beautifully. I did find the narration a bit too monotone at times and would have liked to have heard a bit more passion expressed in the parts where the story affected DI Drake personally, but in all other ways the dispassionate way the story is told fits in quite well with the nature of a police investigation - cool and fact driven.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story itself, which builds tension nicely and has a lovely twist at the end - one which works well. I particularly liked the realistic way Drake and his team went about their painstaking investigation - each of them having a part in the more mundane aspects of police work that are necessary to gather the evidence needed for a successful prosecution.
In fact I enjoyed it so much that I suspect I will be delving into the past episodes of Stephen Puleston's DI Drake books before too long - I am already aching to get to the next one now I know all the characters!
Although this book is actually the seventh one in the Stephen Puleston's Inspector Drake series, it works extremely well as a stand-alone, which is good because I have not read any others in the series....yet!
The story concentrates on the murder of a small time drug addict, whose murder turns out to be much more of a complex affair that it first appears. As Inspector Drake and his trusty team investigate Dawn's death, some rather worrying facts come to light that seem to link it to the rise in the County Lines drug trafficking problem and despite their efforts, more bodies appear before they can get to the bottom of whoever is behind the crimes - and the violence comes much too close to home for Inspector Drake's liking.
The audio book is narrated by Richard Elfyn, who manages all the accents rather well and pronounces the Welsh place names oh so beautifully. I did find the narration a bit too monotone at times and would have liked to have heard a bit more passion expressed in the parts where the story affected DI Drake personally, but in all other ways the dispassionate way the story is told fits in quite well with the nature of a police investigation - cool and fact driven.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story itself, which builds tension nicely and has a lovely twist at the end - one which works well. I particularly liked the realistic way Drake and his team went about their painstaking investigation - each of them having a part in the more mundane aspects of police work that are necessary to gather the evidence needed for a successful prosecution.
In fact I enjoyed it so much that I suspect I will be delving into the past episodes of Stephen Puleston's DI Drake books before too long - I am already aching to get to the next one now I know all the characters!
March 19, 2020
This is the seventh outing for DI Drake and his team. The book begins with the murder of Dawn Piper, a well known drug user, who was trying her best to reform. Soon, Drake and his team are immersed in the murky world of county lines drug gangs and oddly, online zombie game players
Before long, a friend of Dawn’s, Hubert Gaston, who was also involved in zombie games is found murdered.
As the case continues, the gang Drake is tracking down, makes it obvious they know where Drake lives, and his family are put at risk. When this happens, Drake doubles his efforts to find out who is prepared to kill to keep their activities secret.
As with all Stephen’s books, it is brilliantly written, fast-paced with lots of twists and turns. I listened to it via Audible and Richard Elfyn’s narration is superb. He masters a range of accents with consummate ease, and really adds to the enjoyment of the book.
Before long, a friend of Dawn’s, Hubert Gaston, who was also involved in zombie games is found murdered.
As the case continues, the gang Drake is tracking down, makes it obvious they know where Drake lives, and his family are put at risk. When this happens, Drake doubles his efforts to find out who is prepared to kill to keep their activities secret.
As with all Stephen’s books, it is brilliantly written, fast-paced with lots of twists and turns. I listened to it via Audible and Richard Elfyn’s narration is superb. He masters a range of accents with consummate ease, and really adds to the enjoyment of the book.
April 8, 2020
another winner from the puleston Elfynn combination hear as inspector Drake and his team investegate the murder of Dawn Piper, a seemingly reformed drug user. this book tackles the subject of county lines drug dealing which is an timely issue for this series to tackle.
We are currently living in strange times and this was the perfect read to curl up with and forget what is happening. Drake and his team feel like old friends now that we are 7 books in to the series and it's good to see Drake's pri?ate life really beginning to fall in to place.
the other members of Drake's team seem to be coming in their own as the series develops and it will be interesting to see how Drake interacts with his new boss as the series continues.
We are currently living in strange times and this was the perfect read to curl up with and forget what is happening. Drake and his team feel like old friends now that we are 7 books in to the series and it's good to see Drake's pri?ate life really beginning to fall in to place.
the other members of Drake's team seem to be coming in their own as the series develops and it will be interesting to see how Drake interacts with his new boss as the series continues.
May 31, 2020
Accurate insight into the underbelly of the drugs world, good characterisation and descriptions of the challenges to an undermanned police force lend atmosphere and credibility to an all-too-real drugs trafficking scenario. The human side of the detective is well-drawn, especially when his family is threatened, as is the sordid world of drug dealers and their pitiful victims.
There were some incorrectly used words, which pulled me out of the storyline but overall, 'Nowhere to Hide' is well-structured, holds attention and delivers an agreeable coup de grace.
I am fortunate to have received an advance readers copy and offer this honest review in return.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom August 2019
There were some incorrectly used words, which pulled me out of the storyline but overall, 'Nowhere to Hide' is well-structured, holds attention and delivers an agreeable coup de grace.
I am fortunate to have received an advance readers copy and offer this honest review in return.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom August 2019
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