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DCI Michael Yorke Thriller #2
The Repenting Serpent
A DCI Michael Yorke Thriller
A vicious serial killer slithers from the darkness, determined to resurrect the ways of a long-dead civilisation.
When the ex-wife of one of DCI Michael Yorke’s closest allies is left mutilated and murdered, Yorke and his team embark on their greatest test yet. A deeply personal case that will push them to their very limits.
And as Yorke’s team are pulled further into the dark, the killer circles, preparing to strike again.
The Repenting Serpent is a true edge-of-the-seat, nail-biting page turner.
298 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2019
753 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Wes Markin
34 books246 followersBe sure to follow Wes on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/3tFWIHL
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
June 3, 2019
DCI Michael Yorke and his team have suffered severe losses in the recent past. One of Yorke's closest friend, as well as colleague, is hit with something that literally takes his breath away.
This case becomes very personal and they all will face a lot of violence from a killer who has visions of re-populating an ancient civillization.
This is a gripping, well written story that holds the reader's attention from start to finish. The author's storytelling is fascinating, and credible. The characters, both good and bad. are finely drawn and come to life from pen to paper.
Many thanks to the author / TBC Reviewer Request Group (FB) for the digital copy of this riveting crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
May 19, 2019
This is the second book in the DI Michael Yorke series and in my opinion works easily as a stand alone.
As the blurb suggests, this is a deeply personal case for Yorke and his team and boy did my emotions go into over drive in parts. My heart went out for Iain Brooke and his son. Their grief is very raw and for Iain especially, he can not rest until the killer is caught.
There are a couple of threads running in the story and whilst Yorke may be the main character, we really get to see more of his team and get to know them better. It was also good getting to see how they all work together as a team. At times it felt a little bit like Yorke is a father figure, someone who the rest of them look up to and for advice, I actually enjoyed this aspect very much.
This was quite a chilling story. In more ways than one. I don’t want to say to much about what goes on in the story but I think readers will be in for a pleasant surprise with the pure evilness of some people. Obviously not great in the real world but in a world of fiction, it makes it so much more exciting and thrilling.
The Repenting Serpent is a page turner of a read that had me racing through the pages. The parts to do with Iain’s son Ewan, definitely brought a lump to my throat and I thought he was a great wee character. I’m glad that this is a book in a series as I reckon there is so much more to come from certain characters. If you are looking for a compelling and dark read, then would certainly recommend you giving this one a go.
My thanks to Caroline Vincent for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
As the blurb suggests, this is a deeply personal case for Yorke and his team and boy did my emotions go into over drive in parts. My heart went out for Iain Brooke and his son. Their grief is very raw and for Iain especially, he can not rest until the killer is caught.
There are a couple of threads running in the story and whilst Yorke may be the main character, we really get to see more of his team and get to know them better. It was also good getting to see how they all work together as a team. At times it felt a little bit like Yorke is a father figure, someone who the rest of them look up to and for advice, I actually enjoyed this aspect very much.
This was quite a chilling story. In more ways than one. I don’t want to say to much about what goes on in the story but I think readers will be in for a pleasant surprise with the pure evilness of some people. Obviously not great in the real world but in a world of fiction, it makes it so much more exciting and thrilling.
The Repenting Serpent is a page turner of a read that had me racing through the pages. The parts to do with Iain’s son Ewan, definitely brought a lump to my throat and I thought he was a great wee character. I’m glad that this is a book in a series as I reckon there is so much more to come from certain characters. If you are looking for a compelling and dark read, then would certainly recommend you giving this one a go.
My thanks to Caroline Vincent for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
August 16, 2025
A solid follow-up! This one felt a touch less gritty than the first, more of a straight crime-thriller ride, but it still had me hooked. The final third is exactly what you want from the genre! Exhilarating, fastpaced, with all the puzzle pieces snapping into place.
One of my niggles from book one was that I didn’t really get much depth from the side characters. Glad to say book two fixes that. The Jake and Lacey subplot was actually the highlight for me, and really gave the story more depth and the darker side of humanity I like in this type of book.
This series is definitely growing on me, can’t wait to see where it heads next.
One of my niggles from book one was that I didn’t really get much depth from the side characters. Glad to say book two fixes that. The Jake and Lacey subplot was actually the highlight for me, and really gave the story more depth and the darker side of humanity I like in this type of book.
This series is definitely growing on me, can’t wait to see where it heads next.
June 8, 2019
If I could give out more stars, I would probably find it difficult to know where to stop. The Repenting Serpent is a gruesome, spine-chilling and extremely dark sequel to One Last Prayer for the Rays. This book has EVERYTHING I look for in a thriller. Each chapter was a shock one after the other; so much suspense, so much goriness, so much thrill - delivered so beautifully!
When the ex-wife of Iain Brookes is brutally murdered, Michael Yorke and his team of ever-so audacious detectives are led to the chase of an extremely vile and disturbed individual - a person called The Repenting Serpent. The Repenting Serpent leaves behind a high body count and Yorke and his team must identify and stop him before he strikes close to home again.
There are many things I like about this book, primarily its ability to shock me. Having read many thrillers, most of them gory, I thought I'd seen the worst - apparently NOT! Steel yourselves for a helluva ride. I like how there's continuity in the stories of each of the characters. The Last Prayer for the Rays left me with a major need to know what the hell would Lacey Ray be up to next. Much to my delight, this twisted woman shows up in this book too, with her deranged and disturbing behavior, and has now left me with another major need to know more... Needless to say, all characters in this book are defined so well, I actually see them in my head going about their ways. The plot is fantastic. Every page from the start to the end is a pure joy to read.
Wes Markin proves his prowess for writing yet again, and this is only his second book!!
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for ways to experience mindless terror (but not actually go through it. Ha Ha!)
Thank you, Wes Markin for an arc!
When the ex-wife of Iain Brookes is brutally murdered, Michael Yorke and his team of ever-so audacious detectives are led to the chase of an extremely vile and disturbed individual - a person called The Repenting Serpent. The Repenting Serpent leaves behind a high body count and Yorke and his team must identify and stop him before he strikes close to home again.
There are many things I like about this book, primarily its ability to shock me. Having read many thrillers, most of them gory, I thought I'd seen the worst - apparently NOT! Steel yourselves for a helluva ride. I like how there's continuity in the stories of each of the characters. The Last Prayer for the Rays left me with a major need to know what the hell would Lacey Ray be up to next. Much to my delight, this twisted woman shows up in this book too, with her deranged and disturbing behavior, and has now left me with another major need to know more... Needless to say, all characters in this book are defined so well, I actually see them in my head going about their ways. The plot is fantastic. Every page from the start to the end is a pure joy to read.
Wes Markin proves his prowess for writing yet again, and this is only his second book!!
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for ways to experience mindless terror (but not actually go through it. Ha Ha!)
Thank you, Wes Markin for an arc!
July 2, 2020
I feel like I’m just fangirling over amazing books lately just flapping around excitedly in my reviews like the crazy inflatable arm man. So. I’m going to try really hard to give you something more than pterodactyl screeches in this review.
This was basically the novel equivalent of Criminal Minds, a really dark and suspenseful police procedural.
[And I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds you know until about season 11]
Markin gives such a delicious read about a series of murders and they all seem to have a very strong connection to something more than just a serial killer getting their fill. This also includes Aztec mythology which is a nice change of pace as we usually hear more about Greek/Roman/Norse mythology in novels these days. [Or at least I do…hopefully it’s not just me lol]
I very much enjoyed seeing how Yorke and his team were piecing together clues and loved the creepy chapters told from the point of the serial killer. I have to say the misdirect worked on me momentarily and to that I tip my imaginary hat to Markin because I really thought I know ‘whodunit.’
Also, Markin is not afraid to do away with characters he’s like the thriller version G.R.R. Martin, so, you know, try not to get attached, bahaha. I did like that though, it was clear that anyone was capable of dying and the feeling of everyone running out of time had me actually and not just figuratively on the edge of my seat. Martin doesn’t drag on the novel too long and he manages to give a very satisfying story in quite a short period when you realize how much he integrated into the plot and the amount of characters.
So, if you like police procedurals/thrillers, and you want to read an amazing newer series, go grab The Repenting Serpent -or the first one in the series, One Last Prayer for the Rays.- Though this is a series, it’s not necessary to read book 1 to be able to read book 2. Thank you to CarolineBookBit Tours and the author for a digital copy in exchange for my review.
This was basically the novel equivalent of Criminal Minds, a really dark and suspenseful police procedural.
[And I am a huge fan of Criminal Minds you know until about season 11]
Markin gives such a delicious read about a series of murders and they all seem to have a very strong connection to something more than just a serial killer getting their fill. This also includes Aztec mythology which is a nice change of pace as we usually hear more about Greek/Roman/Norse mythology in novels these days. [Or at least I do…hopefully it’s not just me lol]
I very much enjoyed seeing how Yorke and his team were piecing together clues and loved the creepy chapters told from the point of the serial killer. I have to say the misdirect worked on me momentarily and to that I tip my imaginary hat to Markin because I really thought I know ‘whodunit.’
Also, Markin is not afraid to do away with characters he’s like the thriller version G.R.R. Martin, so, you know, try not to get attached, bahaha. I did like that though, it was clear that anyone was capable of dying and the feeling of everyone running out of time had me actually and not just figuratively on the edge of my seat. Martin doesn’t drag on the novel too long and he manages to give a very satisfying story in quite a short period when you realize how much he integrated into the plot and the amount of characters.
So, if you like police procedurals/thrillers, and you want to read an amazing newer series, go grab The Repenting Serpent -or the first one in the series, One Last Prayer for the Rays.- Though this is a series, it’s not necessary to read book 1 to be able to read book 2. Thank you to CarolineBookBit Tours and the author for a digital copy in exchange for my review.
June 22, 2019
Take an Aztec priest and plonk him down in a small town in southern England, ready to start sacrificing the sad, the lonely and the unloved. What a brilliant premise.This bizarre set-up certainly makes The Repenting Serpent a little bit different from the average British police procedural.
The author had obviously done his homework on Aztec spirituality and this theme introduced all manner of obscure aspects to this fast-paced tale of psychotic serial killing. An entirely original and unique angle – bravo!
On the other hand, it’s impossible to ignore the resemblance between the so-bad-she’s-good girl Lacey Ray, and everybody’s favourite female serial-killing sociopath, Alice from Luther. Those similarities didn’t stop me cheering when Lacey appeared on the scene with her secateurs at the ready to inflict agonising injury on deserving individuals.
In fact, Lacey proves to be the perfect counterbalance to the lovey-dovey bubbles of domestic bliss and baby blooming that surround the detectives. I’m always infinitely more interested in a convincing criminal than I am in the average life of an ordinary copper.
Lacey is, however, treading the same path as Alice by involving herself in the cases which her pet policeman struggles to solve, so if I was author Wes Markin then I’d take her into entirely new territory next time.
This was an easy read, told fluidly, with some nifty twists and more graphic violence than you’d ever expect to find on Salisbury Plan. Bring on the next one!
7/10
There's more about this book - and many other crime-thrillers - over at http://www.murdermayhemandmore.net
The author had obviously done his homework on Aztec spirituality and this theme introduced all manner of obscure aspects to this fast-paced tale of psychotic serial killing. An entirely original and unique angle – bravo!
On the other hand, it’s impossible to ignore the resemblance between the so-bad-she’s-good girl Lacey Ray, and everybody’s favourite female serial-killing sociopath, Alice from Luther. Those similarities didn’t stop me cheering when Lacey appeared on the scene with her secateurs at the ready to inflict agonising injury on deserving individuals.
In fact, Lacey proves to be the perfect counterbalance to the lovey-dovey bubbles of domestic bliss and baby blooming that surround the detectives. I’m always infinitely more interested in a convincing criminal than I am in the average life of an ordinary copper.
Lacey is, however, treading the same path as Alice by involving herself in the cases which her pet policeman struggles to solve, so if I was author Wes Markin then I’d take her into entirely new territory next time.
This was an easy read, told fluidly, with some nifty twists and more graphic violence than you’d ever expect to find on Salisbury Plan. Bring on the next one!
7/10
There's more about this book - and many other crime-thrillers - over at http://www.murdermayhemandmore.net
May 22, 2019
I got this as a e book for my i pad from a facebook page that I am a member of called tbc reviews. I enjoyed reading it. It is my second book read by this author. I liked the first book too. Both of the books I read by him had a good story to them. I look forward to the next book by this author.
June 3, 2019
I loved the series opener, One Last Prayer for the Rays, when I read it a while back. As well as a new case for Yorke in this follow-up, the book also revisits certain things left open from the first one so I would really recommend you read that one first.
We start with the discovery of a body. The ex-wife of one of Yorke's colleagues is murdered in a most heinous way. But who, and why? With very little to go on initially, and with the method of killing a bit bizarre to say the least, have Yorke and his team met their match? But then, there's a small clue that leads Yorke to an unlikely place, leading him to do some really fascinating research. Opening up a direction that, well, has to be read to be believed! But with the stakes getting ever higher as the book reaches its final chapters, can they get to the crux of the matter in time and stop things before the endgame is reached? And then there's Jake and a face from the past...
Oh my! I loved this book. I can't say too much about some things as I fear for spoilers, but I can say that the author has definitely done his research into what I thought was a really fascinating subject. I highlighted along the way and did a fair bit of googling after I'd finished the book as it really piqued my interest.
The story and characters drew me in right from the start and both held me captive throughout. It was chilling and scary and very addictive. I had to know what was going to happen as I read with my heart in my mouth for the most part. If I had cushions on my sofa I would have probably been reading behind them in some places!
Pacing is perfect and there are the lighter moments that are necessary to keep a book of this genre balanced. Characterisation is excellent - returning characters are developing nicely, and new characters equally well drawn. The story also gets on well with itself without the need for superfluous padding and distractions.
All in all, a cracking follow-up to a great series opener. Really can't wait to see what the author serves up for his next course.
We start with the discovery of a body. The ex-wife of one of Yorke's colleagues is murdered in a most heinous way. But who, and why? With very little to go on initially, and with the method of killing a bit bizarre to say the least, have Yorke and his team met their match? But then, there's a small clue that leads Yorke to an unlikely place, leading him to do some really fascinating research. Opening up a direction that, well, has to be read to be believed! But with the stakes getting ever higher as the book reaches its final chapters, can they get to the crux of the matter in time and stop things before the endgame is reached? And then there's Jake and a face from the past...
Oh my! I loved this book. I can't say too much about some things as I fear for spoilers, but I can say that the author has definitely done his research into what I thought was a really fascinating subject. I highlighted along the way and did a fair bit of googling after I'd finished the book as it really piqued my interest.
The story and characters drew me in right from the start and both held me captive throughout. It was chilling and scary and very addictive. I had to know what was going to happen as I read with my heart in my mouth for the most part. If I had cushions on my sofa I would have probably been reading behind them in some places!
Pacing is perfect and there are the lighter moments that are necessary to keep a book of this genre balanced. Characterisation is excellent - returning characters are developing nicely, and new characters equally well drawn. The story also gets on well with itself without the need for superfluous padding and distractions.
All in all, a cracking follow-up to a great series opener. Really can't wait to see what the author serves up for his next course.
May 28, 2024
This was a Spine Tingling Page Turner!
DCI Yorke and his team are hot on the heels of a sadistic killer, one who thinks he is an Aztec God, one That is bringing the Second Coming, A new world, A world that can only become through human sacrifice!
As Yorke's is trying on to track this killer, A killer who took the life of one of his former cops, more bodies mount, and it appears that this killer is more than just doing this for sacrifice, he nay enjoy it.
The Repenting Serpent is a 5 Star page turner that will leave you on edge until the very end.
DCI Yorke and his team are hot on the heels of a sadistic killer, one who thinks he is an Aztec God, one That is bringing the Second Coming, A new world, A world that can only become through human sacrifice!
As Yorke's is trying on to track this killer, A killer who took the life of one of his former cops, more bodies mount, and it appears that this killer is more than just doing this for sacrifice, he nay enjoy it.
The Repenting Serpent is a 5 Star page turner that will leave you on edge until the very end.
January 13, 2021
Incredibly good!
June 3, 2019
The Repenting serpent by Wes Markin.
A fantastic read with some great characters. Dark and disturbing and scary. The killer was creepy and evil. I loved Yorke and his team. Ewan was great too. Markin knows how to write with evil in mind. Truly a great read from start to finish. I really hope there is more to come. 5*.
A fantastic read with some great characters. Dark and disturbing and scary. The killer was creepy and evil. I loved Yorke and his team. Ewan was great too. Markin knows how to write with evil in mind. Truly a great read from start to finish. I really hope there is more to come. 5*.
February 11, 2021
I received a copy of this book from TBC Reviewers request- Thank you
This is the second book in the DI Yorke series as always I’d really recommend that you treat yourself and read book one first. This will work as a standalone read but I found it easier to submerge myself in, as I already felt connected with the characters. Without giving too much away, (I hate spoilers) this is a different type of case for Yorke it is highly personal and Wes creates a dramatic sense of purpose for Yorke throughout the book.
I am genuinely a massive fan of Yorke and love the character development that is clearly coming through as the series of books expands not just Yorke but his team and the relationships within the team.
Wes has created a character who has the potential to rival Rebus, Bosch, Parker and Thorne! I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Thank you
This is the second book in the DI Yorke series as always I’d really recommend that you treat yourself and read book one first. This will work as a standalone read but I found it easier to submerge myself in, as I already felt connected with the characters. Without giving too much away, (I hate spoilers) this is a different type of case for Yorke it is highly personal and Wes creates a dramatic sense of purpose for Yorke throughout the book.
I am genuinely a massive fan of Yorke and love the character development that is clearly coming through as the series of books expands not just Yorke but his team and the relationships within the team.
Wes has created a character who has the potential to rival Rebus, Bosch, Parker and Thorne! I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Thank you
Read
June 19, 2019The shocking opening gave this book an edge being immediately personal for the team that would investigate the brutal murder of the ex-wife of one of their own. It was the first time I had met any of the characters but I soon felt that I knew them. DCI Michael Yorke and the team were like an extended family that watched out for each other.
As the body count in the story escalates, the reasoning of the murders becomes known which explains the title of the book. I was fascinated by the historical side and pretty disturbed that this crazy killer wasn’t the only one that believed in these old ways. Now what this serial killer was doing was a spit in the ocean compared with the past but he was working on increasing the final total.
I love a story where I can get inside the killer mind to see the world as they see it and boy this was one scary place! The planning, the capture and ultimately the kill, yes this was perfection but wow, more than anything it was the belief in why he did what he did that really got me.
I experienced everything in this story, the loss, the kill and how the victim felt. Atmospheric, tense and brilliant characters. I will be revisiting this author in the future.
I wish to thank Bits About Books for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
As the body count in the story escalates, the reasoning of the murders becomes known which explains the title of the book. I was fascinated by the historical side and pretty disturbed that this crazy killer wasn’t the only one that believed in these old ways. Now what this serial killer was doing was a spit in the ocean compared with the past but he was working on increasing the final total.
I love a story where I can get inside the killer mind to see the world as they see it and boy this was one scary place! The planning, the capture and ultimately the kill, yes this was perfection but wow, more than anything it was the belief in why he did what he did that really got me.
I experienced everything in this story, the loss, the kill and how the victim felt. Atmospheric, tense and brilliant characters. I will be revisiting this author in the future.
I wish to thank Bits About Books for an e-copy of this book which I have reviewed honestly.
January 15, 2022
The Repenting Serpent is book two in the DCI Michael Yorke Thriller series by Wes Markin. DCI Michael Yorke caught a case that no law enforcement officers wanted to be involved with the murder of a family member of a colleague. The death of DS Iain Brookes ex-wife pushed the DCI Michael Yorke team to its limits. The readers of The Repenting Serpent will go on a roller-coaster ride with DCI Michael Yorke to find out what happens.
Wow DCI Michael Yorke series is fantastic, and The Repenting Serpent did not disappoint. I engaged with the plot of this book from the first page. I love Wes Markin's portrayal of his characters and how they interact with each other throughout this book. The Repenting Serpent is well written and researched by Wes Markin. I like Wes Markin description of the settings of The Repenting Serpent that allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of The Repenting Serpent will learn about the Aztec deity and the Aztec sacrifice called Tlacamictilztli. Also, the readers will learn about Blue-Ring Octopus is a highly venomous species of octopus.
I recommend this book.
May 27, 2019
I read this straight after the first DCI Yorke book as wanted to get to know Yorke's character and his team more, and I wasn't disappointed, another sinister case where one of their colleagues Brookes wife is murdered.
Brookes and his son Euan are dragged into the killers game and Yorke and his team work relentlessly to find the killer before he makes Euan his sacrifice. There's lots of background details on why the killer is doing what he's doing and I found it difficult at times to follow all the Aztec part but it gave the story intrigue and suspense.
As with the previous book Lacey is still up to her old tricks and looks like she'll continue to be in future books.
I enjoyed getting to know the rest of Yorke's team they all have their own unique skills to bring to the cases
Can't wait for the next one
Brookes and his son Euan are dragged into the killers game and Yorke and his team work relentlessly to find the killer before he makes Euan his sacrifice. There's lots of background details on why the killer is doing what he's doing and I found it difficult at times to follow all the Aztec part but it gave the story intrigue and suspense.
As with the previous book Lacey is still up to her old tricks and looks like she'll continue to be in future books.
I enjoyed getting to know the rest of Yorke's team they all have their own unique skills to bring to the cases
Can't wait for the next one
July 1, 2024
Another gritty, gruesome and graphic read, exactly what I love in a good book. Wes Markin is a fantastic writer and certainly knows how to grab your attention.
This is the 2nd in the DCI Yorke series, and it certainly has plenty of heart in your mouth moments. Truly impressive.
Apart from this being such a great read, I love the characters and already have a couple of favourites that I cannot wait to see grow in the next few books.
The books are set a such a grand pace, that your are never left waiting for the next heart stopping moment to happen.
Highly Recommend.
This is the 2nd in the DCI Yorke series, and it certainly has plenty of heart in your mouth moments. Truly impressive.
Apart from this being such a great read, I love the characters and already have a couple of favourites that I cannot wait to see grow in the next few books.
The books are set a such a grand pace, that your are never left waiting for the next heart stopping moment to happen.
Highly Recommend.
February 12, 2020
This is one for the lovers of fast action and twisted criminals. It brings one of the police and his family into the sights of a mad man – not sure how true to life that is, but it makes for a cracking story. A modern day believer in a historic South American religion wants to bring back a new age of belief. This includes sacrifice. Things don’t look good for those who cross his path. Yorke and his team seem to be one step behind. I enjoyed this and am off for another outing with them.
January 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this. I will be reading the whole series. It's a very addictive book, it was one of those, 'just one more chapter' times last night and before I knew it I had finished the book and it was late! The detail about the Aztec's was a little too much for me and I ended up skimming over some of that, and some parts were rather gruesome but overall a fantastic book. I'm just glad this is fiction as I don't think I'd want to venture into Salisbury otherwise!
March 20, 2022
3.5⭐️
I had the 🎧audiobook version narrated by Aubrey Parsons.
It has an over riding story arc so best read in order.
Yorke’s friend and colleagues ex wife is killed.
There’s a serial killer who is driven by Aztec ritualistic behaviour. There was a bit too much background to the religion for me.
Lacy Ray is back tormenting Jake!
It’s fast paced. Not one of my favourites.
I had the 🎧audiobook version narrated by Aubrey Parsons.
It has an over riding story arc so best read in order.
Yorke’s friend and colleagues ex wife is killed.
There’s a serial killer who is driven by Aztec ritualistic behaviour. There was a bit too much background to the religion for me.
Lacy Ray is back tormenting Jake!
It’s fast paced. Not one of my favourites.
July 3, 2019
You've done it again Wes Markin. Another great, gritty, twisted story. More bodies, more strange and twisted people and nasty people from the past pop up. Twists and turns to keep all thriller fan happy.
Hopefully more to come.
Hopefully more to come.
June 14, 2019
I have been following Wes since his debut novel - One last prayer for the Rays Review 👉 http://www.alexjbooks.com/review/466
as one of his beta readers. Along with that I’ve also read his short novella Defined and can’t fail to be impressed by both.
The opening prologue to this new novel is great, the sense of foreboding that instantly settles around you is pleasantly disturbing 😈.
Jessica Brooke, Ex-wife of DS Iain Brooke has been found in her home brutally savagely murdered. Her heart has been taken, the team arrive to investigate. Could their friend and colleague have anything to do with this?
Jessica’s mother , living in the Mary Chapman living facility for the elderly is in the late stages of Alzheimer’s and now almost a mute, having not spoken or moved in months she suffers a major outburst. She springs into life and rambles a warning to DS Brooke, recently part of a drug trial to sustain life is this the Drugs talking or is there something darker, more macabre, more sinister at work?
Soon after the first murder, the only suspect is found burnt to death in another savage killing, it’s becoming clear their is a sadistic manic killer on the loose.
The team quickly realise that the victims are being sacrificed by someone who worships ancient Aztec beliefs and gods . An insane crazed killer looking to bring about a “second age” to the world.
There has clearly been some serious research by the author as it’s very interesting and he has created a new type of villain.
The Finale builds up nicely, and is tense , fast paced and action packed aswell as shocking as the team come head on with the deluded killer.
The Story arc involving Lacey Ray, a deranged psychopath obsessed with DS Jake Pettiman from the first book continues throughout this book.
DCI Micheal Yorke is a determined character, emotionally involved with his team and he comes across noticeably affected by events, he’s very human, he’s not a super hero, he’s just a man trying to do right
The book closes with a little cliffhanger leading into the next in the series but all the threads in this book are tied up.
I really enjoyed reading number 2 in the series , and I breezed through it in a couple of days, an easy page turning thriller from an Author growing in confidence. I really am looking forward to more.
4⭐️
As a Beta reader for Wes Markin I received this eARC early and unedited. As ever my review and score is totally unbiased.
as one of his beta readers. Along with that I’ve also read his short novella Defined and can’t fail to be impressed by both.
The opening prologue to this new novel is great, the sense of foreboding that instantly settles around you is pleasantly disturbing 😈.
Jessica Brooke, Ex-wife of DS Iain Brooke has been found in her home brutally savagely murdered. Her heart has been taken, the team arrive to investigate. Could their friend and colleague have anything to do with this?
Jessica’s mother , living in the Mary Chapman living facility for the elderly is in the late stages of Alzheimer’s and now almost a mute, having not spoken or moved in months she suffers a major outburst. She springs into life and rambles a warning to DS Brooke, recently part of a drug trial to sustain life is this the Drugs talking or is there something darker, more macabre, more sinister at work?
Soon after the first murder, the only suspect is found burnt to death in another savage killing, it’s becoming clear their is a sadistic manic killer on the loose.
The team quickly realise that the victims are being sacrificed by someone who worships ancient Aztec beliefs and gods . An insane crazed killer looking to bring about a “second age” to the world.
There has clearly been some serious research by the author as it’s very interesting and he has created a new type of villain.
The Finale builds up nicely, and is tense , fast paced and action packed aswell as shocking as the team come head on with the deluded killer.
The Story arc involving Lacey Ray, a deranged psychopath obsessed with DS Jake Pettiman from the first book continues throughout this book.
DCI Micheal Yorke is a determined character, emotionally involved with his team and he comes across noticeably affected by events, he’s very human, he’s not a super hero, he’s just a man trying to do right
The book closes with a little cliffhanger leading into the next in the series but all the threads in this book are tied up.
I really enjoyed reading number 2 in the series , and I breezed through it in a couple of days, an easy page turning thriller from an Author growing in confidence. I really am looking forward to more.
4⭐️
As a Beta reader for Wes Markin I received this eARC early and unedited. As ever my review and score is totally unbiased.
August 7, 2019
Squeamish? Weak stomach? You may wish to skip this macabre novel.
However, if you’re a fan of serial-killer police procedurals with grisly horror elements, here’s a book for you. The complex storyline is intricately plotted with graphic murders, including one in the process of being committed. The psychotic killer’s methods are grotesque to say the least. At times the crimes seem almost too personal for DCI Michael Yorke and the murder team.
As in many well-written, British police procedurals, there’s an overabundance of characters. I was hard-pressed to remember the plethora of police and ancillary characters, even though I read Book #1. To my surprise (and delight), up popped the psychopathic Lacey Ray and her secateurs, from Book #1. It’s probably best to read Book #1 “One Last Prayer For the Rays.”
I was a bit perturbed that the police brass didn’t attend a specific murder scene, or at the least, show up in the incident room for the sake of morale. I wondered whether another ranking detective should have taken over SIO duties, because of the personal nature of one of the murders. Oddly, the usually over-zealous British media showed little interest in the gruesome deaths.
This story doesn’t have a clean ending, because threads are left hanging. Plus, the events in the epilogue sets up the next book, I think.
However, if you’re a fan of serial-killer police procedurals with grisly horror elements, here’s a book for you. The complex storyline is intricately plotted with graphic murders, including one in the process of being committed. The psychotic killer’s methods are grotesque to say the least. At times the crimes seem almost too personal for DCI Michael Yorke and the murder team.
As in many well-written, British police procedurals, there’s an overabundance of characters. I was hard-pressed to remember the plethora of police and ancillary characters, even though I read Book #1. To my surprise (and delight), up popped the psychopathic Lacey Ray and her secateurs, from Book #1. It’s probably best to read Book #1 “One Last Prayer For the Rays.”
I was a bit perturbed that the police brass didn’t attend a specific murder scene, or at the least, show up in the incident room for the sake of morale. I wondered whether another ranking detective should have taken over SIO duties, because of the personal nature of one of the murders. Oddly, the usually over-zealous British media showed little interest in the gruesome deaths.
This story doesn’t have a clean ending, because threads are left hanging. Plus, the events in the epilogue sets up the next book, I think.
July 8, 2022
I really tried on these first two books in the DCI Michael Yorke series, but I think I will be ending my journey here. Maybe because I have just been incredibly spoiled by my beloved pack of DCIs Jack Logan, Harry Grimm, Robert Kett, and their teams, but the Yorke books just don't have any of the character or story development that I have come to love in this genre. There are so many characters thrown at you in the first book without any backstory or interconnections that it is actually hard to keep track of everyone. Horrible bad people, horrific crime scenes, car chases and tense deadlines abound, but nothing ties everything together. And the premise of the "bad guy" in this book was just a little (or a lot) over the top for me, with far too many missed opportunities by the police and right-to-the-wire dramatic scenes to make anything close to believable.
June 23, 2019
The Repenting Serpent is the second in the DCI Yorke series. Set around three years after Last Prayer for the Rays, the novel opens with a bloody, horrific death which not only shakes up the entire team but sets a bizarre precedent for the rest of the novel. Over the course of three days, three murders are committed, and Yorke is no closer to discovering who the murderer is. All he has is a photograph mistakenly left behind, and a warning from someone in the last stages of Alzheimer's. Can he catch the killer before it’s too late?
As mentioned, this is the second in the series, and while this could happily be read as a standalone, I don’t suggest you do. Start with the first novel. Last Prayer is a gruesome, fast past, psychologically twisting novel which takes everything comfortable and throws it out the window. The Rays were a damaged, gross family, and the murderer felt real, as well as painfully justified. The book opened in a unique, stunning way, creating tension to a standard I still hold other crime novels to. At the time, it was and still is, one of my favourite books within the genre, right up there with the DI Sterling novels. From the moment I knew about this tour, my excitement was palpable, but as was my anxiety. Would the book stand up to such a strong predecessor? Could Wes keep the tension as tight and concise? Could any other murderer be as grossly satisfying as the Rays were? Before I say anymore, I want to say yes, yes, and yes, but with a warning – Serpent isn’t Last Prayer.
It’s actually more satisfying in the ways Last Prayer wasn’t, but less intense as far as the mystery is concerned. I know that might not make sense, but I want to revisit two critique I had for Last Prayer, to try and explain.
In my review, I said I felt the ‘good guy’ characters got so little airtime, I didn’t know them. Serpent handles that with ease, and by the end of the first chapter, my heart was incredibly heavy with emotion. As I had very little come before, I wasn’t invested in the characters or necessarily sad for them per say, but was just very sad, if that makes sense. To further this, Wes made an incredibly bold story telling choice by giving almost every named character a POV moment, often breaking up chapters with a paragraph or two from many members of the ‘cast’, a technique we tend to see in Fantasy, not Crime, but by doing so we’re treated to scenes we’d never have been able to see otherwise. There were one or two times where this style felt choppy, as some of these POV changes are only a few sentences long, but choppy isn’t necessarily a bad word. As with sentence structure, and needing to create mood, Wes uses scene lengths to conjure atmosphere. Those short, snappy interludes keep the plot moving, and our interests keen. It’s a choice, and one I didn’t expect, but overall, one I enjoyed.
I also stated in the Last Prayer review, that I felt there was an arc which felt out of place, and it ended up extending the ending an unnecessary amount of time. This novel eradicates that. There are side arcs, but every plotline wove towards the same end point, creating a satisfying, mood inducing finale. The epilogue is heart breaking, I warn you now, but Wes has made another powerful choice – kill your darlings. I won’t go into it any more than that, but this decision was well made, and overall allowed every arc to be poignant.
The only thing I missed from Last Prayer was the mystery. We knew a lot by the middle of the book, and it became a race against time, instead of a journey of discovery. This isn’t a critique, as I’m madly in love with the culture Wes introduced into Serpent, but as you know, I prefer knowing very little until the crux of the situation. While I missed it, I thoroughly enjoyed the force that lay in its place. For fans of intensely researched, well plotted, and adrenaline inducing crime, this will be a hit. Likewise, for fans of novels which hinge on realism, and no instances where the good guys magically know where to be and when, this is a zinger.
The only critique I’d give, is minor, but one I find myself giving a lot in in this genre – the blurb or promotional material needs warnings. Do not read this if you have a weak stomach, or aren’t a fan of grotesque, as from page one, things are intense. I wouldn’t go as far as to say trigger warnings are necessary, but for gore, you’ve been warned. I’m a fan of the macabre, so was insanely pleased, but if you only teeter that line, this could be too much.
To round up, The Repenting Serpent is a fantastic second novel to a strong series. It’s not its predecessor but is a fantastic novel in its own right. If you enjoy gripping crime where the unexpected occurs, where you’ll feel ill, then sad, then overloaded, before elated, this is a novel to get. If you give this a read, I hope you come back and share your thoughts with me, this isn’t a book to ignore.
I’d just like to say thank you to the author, publisher, and blog tour host for the opportunity to read this for an honest review. All my thoughts are my own, but for transparency, I received this book for free.
As mentioned, this is the second in the series, and while this could happily be read as a standalone, I don’t suggest you do. Start with the first novel. Last Prayer is a gruesome, fast past, psychologically twisting novel which takes everything comfortable and throws it out the window. The Rays were a damaged, gross family, and the murderer felt real, as well as painfully justified. The book opened in a unique, stunning way, creating tension to a standard I still hold other crime novels to. At the time, it was and still is, one of my favourite books within the genre, right up there with the DI Sterling novels. From the moment I knew about this tour, my excitement was palpable, but as was my anxiety. Would the book stand up to such a strong predecessor? Could Wes keep the tension as tight and concise? Could any other murderer be as grossly satisfying as the Rays were? Before I say anymore, I want to say yes, yes, and yes, but with a warning – Serpent isn’t Last Prayer.
It’s actually more satisfying in the ways Last Prayer wasn’t, but less intense as far as the mystery is concerned. I know that might not make sense, but I want to revisit two critique I had for Last Prayer, to try and explain.
In my review, I said I felt the ‘good guy’ characters got so little airtime, I didn’t know them. Serpent handles that with ease, and by the end of the first chapter, my heart was incredibly heavy with emotion. As I had very little come before, I wasn’t invested in the characters or necessarily sad for them per say, but was just very sad, if that makes sense. To further this, Wes made an incredibly bold story telling choice by giving almost every named character a POV moment, often breaking up chapters with a paragraph or two from many members of the ‘cast’, a technique we tend to see in Fantasy, not Crime, but by doing so we’re treated to scenes we’d never have been able to see otherwise. There were one or two times where this style felt choppy, as some of these POV changes are only a few sentences long, but choppy isn’t necessarily a bad word. As with sentence structure, and needing to create mood, Wes uses scene lengths to conjure atmosphere. Those short, snappy interludes keep the plot moving, and our interests keen. It’s a choice, and one I didn’t expect, but overall, one I enjoyed.
I also stated in the Last Prayer review, that I felt there was an arc which felt out of place, and it ended up extending the ending an unnecessary amount of time. This novel eradicates that. There are side arcs, but every plotline wove towards the same end point, creating a satisfying, mood inducing finale. The epilogue is heart breaking, I warn you now, but Wes has made another powerful choice – kill your darlings. I won’t go into it any more than that, but this decision was well made, and overall allowed every arc to be poignant.
The only thing I missed from Last Prayer was the mystery. We knew a lot by the middle of the book, and it became a race against time, instead of a journey of discovery. This isn’t a critique, as I’m madly in love with the culture Wes introduced into Serpent, but as you know, I prefer knowing very little until the crux of the situation. While I missed it, I thoroughly enjoyed the force that lay in its place. For fans of intensely researched, well plotted, and adrenaline inducing crime, this will be a hit. Likewise, for fans of novels which hinge on realism, and no instances where the good guys magically know where to be and when, this is a zinger.
The only critique I’d give, is minor, but one I find myself giving a lot in in this genre – the blurb or promotional material needs warnings. Do not read this if you have a weak stomach, or aren’t a fan of grotesque, as from page one, things are intense. I wouldn’t go as far as to say trigger warnings are necessary, but for gore, you’ve been warned. I’m a fan of the macabre, so was insanely pleased, but if you only teeter that line, this could be too much.
To round up, The Repenting Serpent is a fantastic second novel to a strong series. It’s not its predecessor but is a fantastic novel in its own right. If you enjoy gripping crime where the unexpected occurs, where you’ll feel ill, then sad, then overloaded, before elated, this is a novel to get. If you give this a read, I hope you come back and share your thoughts with me, this isn’t a book to ignore.
I’d just like to say thank you to the author, publisher, and blog tour host for the opportunity to read this for an honest review. All my thoughts are my own, but for transparency, I received this book for free.
June 14, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Another disturbingly dark crime thriller from Wes Markin as DCI Yorke and his team return, this time to track down a killer who has targeted one of their own. Unfortunately Lacey Ray has also returned and may be involved somehow – but is Jake willing to risk his happy family life to play her games?
I really liked the unusual theme running through this book, from the methods of murder to the killer’s personal quirks and relatively rare belief system. Markin has clearly done his research and the information is fascinating and really adds a distinct ‘flavour’ to the story. Be warned that there are some grim and gory details – not for the sensitive reader, or for reading whilst eating!
This is a police procedural thriller and is cleverly written to lead the reader first in one direction, then another, then back again as we race the team to try to work out who did it and who they’re after next. I can’t say too much more without spoiling things, but I will confess to being thoroughly hoodwinked at one point in the plot and wanting to kick myself at the reveal… I should have known!
There are a few references back to One Last Prayer for the Rays but nothing that affects the plot here, so the story can be read as a stand-alone book. Personally I prefer to read in series order and get the gradually building picture of the characters as they develop.
This series is ideal for fans of gritty serial-killer thrillers and while this particular plot is resolved within the book, the ending clearly points the way for more to come. Not good news for Jake, but great for us readers!
As he took the call, and listened to the unthinkable, he stared at Patricia. Even in this darkened hour, metres away, he knew she would see the horror in his eyes. She started across the room, knowing that when the call ended, she would need to be there for him.
As he murmured his farewells, she embraced him.
It was unusual for a man as experienced as DCI Michael Yorke to be so affected by evil, but when evil journeyed so close to home, as it had done tonight, no one was exempt.
He sagged in Patricia’s arms.
– Wes Markin, The Repenting Serpent
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Another disturbingly dark crime thriller from Wes Markin as DCI Yorke and his team return, this time to track down a killer who has targeted one of their own. Unfortunately Lacey Ray has also returned and may be involved somehow – but is Jake willing to risk his happy family life to play her games?
I really liked the unusual theme running through this book, from the methods of murder to the killer’s personal quirks and relatively rare belief system. Markin has clearly done his research and the information is fascinating and really adds a distinct ‘flavour’ to the story. Be warned that there are some grim and gory details – not for the sensitive reader, or for reading whilst eating!
This is a police procedural thriller and is cleverly written to lead the reader first in one direction, then another, then back again as we race the team to try to work out who did it and who they’re after next. I can’t say too much more without spoiling things, but I will confess to being thoroughly hoodwinked at one point in the plot and wanting to kick myself at the reveal… I should have known!
There are a few references back to One Last Prayer for the Rays but nothing that affects the plot here, so the story can be read as a stand-alone book. Personally I prefer to read in series order and get the gradually building picture of the characters as they develop.
This series is ideal for fans of gritty serial-killer thrillers and while this particular plot is resolved within the book, the ending clearly points the way for more to come. Not good news for Jake, but great for us readers!
As he took the call, and listened to the unthinkable, he stared at Patricia. Even in this darkened hour, metres away, he knew she would see the horror in his eyes. She started across the room, knowing that when the call ended, she would need to be there for him.
As he murmured his farewells, she embraced him.
It was unusual for a man as experienced as DCI Michael Yorke to be so affected by evil, but when evil journeyed so close to home, as it had done tonight, no one was exempt.
He sagged in Patricia’s arms.
– Wes Markin, The Repenting Serpent
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
November 3, 2019
This is the second book by Wes Markin I have read and reviewed (and the third he has written). There’s a murder to investigate pretty quickly. DCI Michael Yorke is Markin’s main character, he’s his detective. I like that there is a bit more insight again into DCI Yorke’s past and present life and that he has a story that is being told.
The book is dark and sinister. There’s music and people having a nice time at the wedding but then Wes Markin, changes all that very well and creates a darker scene. There are other cases such as the disappearance of Susie Long and do read to see if what happened to her and the creepy Christian Severance are connected and then there is that murder too… Christian Severance is so dark and there’s the air of wondering what he did next. He is an intriguing character! There is also a real sense in the writing that the DCI wants him caught.
The tone of writing is very good. The psychological elements of the book also interest me with a psychology team working on a technique – HASD and it’s good that the author has taken time to write what this acronym stand for and entails in treating patients, but in a way which fits the story and keeps the flow going. It’s good that in no way does this jar the storyline at any point. This all added another dimension to the story. It also changed the pace a little and the atmosphere and that was cleverly done.
The book is on the edge of your seat stuff, but remember to breath as you read!
Watch out for the next in the series coming soon.
The book is dark and sinister. There’s music and people having a nice time at the wedding but then Wes Markin, changes all that very well and creates a darker scene. There are other cases such as the disappearance of Susie Long and do read to see if what happened to her and the creepy Christian Severance are connected and then there is that murder too… Christian Severance is so dark and there’s the air of wondering what he did next. He is an intriguing character! There is also a real sense in the writing that the DCI wants him caught.
The tone of writing is very good. The psychological elements of the book also interest me with a psychology team working on a technique – HASD and it’s good that the author has taken time to write what this acronym stand for and entails in treating patients, but in a way which fits the story and keeps the flow going. It’s good that in no way does this jar the storyline at any point. This all added another dimension to the story. It also changed the pace a little and the atmosphere and that was cleverly done.
The book is on the edge of your seat stuff, but remember to breath as you read!
Watch out for the next in the series coming soon.
July 12, 2020
After reading One Last Prayer for The Rays I read this in one sitting .... DCI Michael Yorke receives a phone call in the night that leads him to a cruel and vicious murder.DS Iain Brooke's ex wife , a beautiful, gentle woman has been killed by a monster.At the scene of the crime DI Emma Gardner weeps at the brutality of the crime .When Yorke goes to see Brookes, Brookes asks repeatedly what happened...but Yorke insists they do not know the full story as he watches Brookes soul breaking inside .DS Jake Pettmen is now married to Sheila , they have a two year old son Fred..Pettmen is still being taunted by the past..a case that he still has nightmares about .Brookes decides to send his son Ewen away to stay with his Grandfather until the case is over..As Operation Restore begins in the ice cold freezing winter, Yorke and his team will be dragged to a place of so much darkness..Where rituals from centuries past are brought to life...Where a figure from the past resurfaces..Where a mind so deranged with a mission to be accomplished watches...As Evil once again casts it's dark cloak over Salisbury...Yorke and his team face an Evil that is unimaginable....Absolutely Terrifying...Dark Dark Storytelling.....
June 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading One Last Prayer For The Rays earlier this year and I was interested to see how the series would continue. It's often said that the second book is more difficult, but I enjoyed The Repenting Serpent even more. The prologue provides us with an update on the lives of Detective Chief Inspector Michael Yorke and his team, which is useful as this book is set a few years later. I enjoyed receiving a deeper insight into the characters, learning about their relationships, histories and commitments outside the police force. These more rounded detectives sets The Repenting Serpent apart from many novels in the same genre.
The investigation leads Yorke and his team to learn more about Aztec beliefs and practices. I found this aspect of the novel particularly interesting as this period of history is not one I have previously studied. I enjoyed the way the subject was weaved into a much more complex plot.
The Repenting Serpent is bursting with tension, such that I was shocked to see how fast I had been reading! The novel is so atmospheric that I was able to fully immerse myself in its setting, unable to tear myself away until the end.
The investigation leads Yorke and his team to learn more about Aztec beliefs and practices. I found this aspect of the novel particularly interesting as this period of history is not one I have previously studied. I enjoyed the way the subject was weaved into a much more complex plot.
The Repenting Serpent is bursting with tension, such that I was shocked to see how fast I had been reading! The novel is so atmospheric that I was able to fully immerse myself in its setting, unable to tear myself away until the end.
May 28, 2019
Another astounding DCI Yorke installment with an amazing eclectic (always wanted to use eclectic) mix of characters to keep the appetite fed and nourished. We are taken on a journey through Mesoamarican culture and history while being taken round the beautiful English countryside, now there's a combination you thought you would never see. Well now you have.
Within the story relationships are now forming so the empathy levels are raised as you shout and yell while you see them enter the unknown. With a gruesome serial killer on the loose once again it is down to DCI Yorke and his motley crew to come to the aid of those in peril.
There is always the threat and danger to life but does Jake bite off more than he can chew and does this mean Lacey has returned? This episode has enough twists and turns to keep you dizzy and spinning for days, be prepared to suddenly lose time as you read the next chapter.
The only issue I have with this excellent tome is that I now have to wait for the next merry-go-round.
Within the story relationships are now forming so the empathy levels are raised as you shout and yell while you see them enter the unknown. With a gruesome serial killer on the loose once again it is down to DCI Yorke and his motley crew to come to the aid of those in peril.
There is always the threat and danger to life but does Jake bite off more than he can chew and does this mean Lacey has returned? This episode has enough twists and turns to keep you dizzy and spinning for days, be prepared to suddenly lose time as you read the next chapter.
The only issue I have with this excellent tome is that I now have to wait for the next merry-go-round.
December 19, 2020
This had some pretty sadistic and scary serial killers in it. Two stories running concurrently that do intersect a bit. Lacey is a definite psycho who has been involved with one of the detectives previously and she has her own agenda. She contacts the detective when she has some info that might help him but also wants things from him that he doesn't want to give.
Detective York is investigating the brutal murder of a young woman that is the ex of a colleague and friend. As they follow the clues it appears that the killer is also a psycho who believes he is communicating with Aztec gods and bringing back Aztec rule to earth. As they dig deeper they find the killer has a connection to an old folks care facility where the dead woman's mother lives.
Both psychos really creeped me out. Detective York is a very loyal friend and colleague and dedicated to his job and does show emotion. He tries hard to help out everyone and stop the killers and gets upset when others don't follow the rules.
Detective York is investigating the brutal murder of a young woman that is the ex of a colleague and friend. As they follow the clues it appears that the killer is also a psycho who believes he is communicating with Aztec gods and bringing back Aztec rule to earth. As they dig deeper they find the killer has a connection to an old folks care facility where the dead woman's mother lives.
Both psychos really creeped me out. Detective York is a very loyal friend and colleague and dedicated to his job and does show emotion. He tries hard to help out everyone and stop the killers and gets upset when others don't follow the rules.
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