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Atticus Priest #1
The House in the Woods
Four murders. Two detectives. One mystifying crime.
On Christmas Eve, DCI Mackenzie Jones is called to a shooting at a remote farmhouse. Ralph Mallender believes his father lies dead inside. When three more bodies are discovered, it’s clear a festive family gathering has turned into a gruesome tragedy.
At first it seems like an open and shut case: a murder suicide committed by Ralph’s volatile brother Cameron. Then new evidence makes Mack suspect the man who reported the crime is in fact the perpetrator.
But Mack isn’t the only one with a stake in the case. Private investigator Atticus Priest has been hired to get Ralph acquitted. That means unearthing any weaknesses in Mack’s evidence.
Irascible, impatient and unpredictable, Atticus has weaknesses of his own. Mack knows all about them because they share a past - both professionally and personally. This time round, however, they aren’t on the same side. And as Atticus picks at the loose ends of the case, everything starts to unravel in a way neither of them could ever have predicted...
On Christmas Eve, DCI Mackenzie Jones is called to a shooting at a remote farmhouse. Ralph Mallender believes his father lies dead inside. When three more bodies are discovered, it’s clear a festive family gathering has turned into a gruesome tragedy.
At first it seems like an open and shut case: a murder suicide committed by Ralph’s volatile brother Cameron. Then new evidence makes Mack suspect the man who reported the crime is in fact the perpetrator.
But Mack isn’t the only one with a stake in the case. Private investigator Atticus Priest has been hired to get Ralph acquitted. That means unearthing any weaknesses in Mack’s evidence.
Irascible, impatient and unpredictable, Atticus has weaknesses of his own. Mack knows all about them because they share a past - both professionally and personally. This time round, however, they aren’t on the same side. And as Atticus picks at the loose ends of the case, everything starts to unravel in a way neither of them could ever have predicted...
Audible Audio
First published March 16, 2020
3087 people are currently reading
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About the author
Mark Dawson
114 books1,848 followersFor news and special offers join Mark's mailing list at:
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
http://eepurl.com/Cai5X
Mark Dawson was born in Lowestoft and grew up in Manchester and Chicago. He has worked as a lawyer and currently works in the London film industry. His first books, "The Art of Falling Apart" and "Subpoena Colada" have been published in multiple languages.
He is currently writing two series. Soho Noir is set in the West End of London between 1940 and 1970. The first book in the series, "The Black Mile", deals with the (real life but little known) serial killer who operated in the area during the Blitz. "The Imposter" traces the journey of a criminal family (think The Sopranos in austerity London and you'd be on the right track).
The John Milton series features a disgruntled special agent who aims to help people to make amends for the terrible things that he has done. Mark, as a child of the 80s, will freely admit that he watched a lot of The Equalizer in his youth.
Mark lives in Wiltshire with his family.
You can find him at www.markjdawson.com or www.facebook.com/markdawsonauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 905 reviews
December 18, 2025
At first I said, not another mystery investigated by a guy with Asperger. Can we be original for a bit? However, I ended up enjoying this. It's about a very smart private detective who is investigated a triple murder. Despite being brilliant, he is dismissed from work due to smoking pot at work. He also has a previous relationship with the investigator of the case. It was a solid and interesting mystery and I am looking forward to reading the next one.
March 6, 2020
Absolutely FANTASTIC!!! I LOVE Atticus Priest!! A new character by author Mark Dawson who is sure to become well-loved!! He is an ex-cop turned PI, with a reputation known to all and a quirky history with DCI Mackenzie 'Mack' Jones that can often do more too hinder the investigation than to help!!
There is a horrific shooting of a whole family on Christmas Eve, husband, wife, son and daughter, all murdered in their large family home. There is surviving son, and now due to a large inheritance, all look to him as a suspect. Atticus is hired by this man's wife who refuses to believe her husband guilty, and this puts him directly in the path of Mack, who is trying to prove his Guilt!!
We see the murder through eyes in the court, between the cops who investigate, and enjoy the interactions of Atticus and Mack! A fabulous read, and I can NOT wait for more adventures with Atticus Priest!!
I received an ARC from the author who I commend for a fabulous new character, and I give You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review!! Out 3/16/2020..Be Ready To Have the Time of Your Life!!!
There is a horrific shooting of a whole family on Christmas Eve, husband, wife, son and daughter, all murdered in their large family home. There is surviving son, and now due to a large inheritance, all look to him as a suspect. Atticus is hired by this man's wife who refuses to believe her husband guilty, and this puts him directly in the path of Mack, who is trying to prove his Guilt!!
We see the murder through eyes in the court, between the cops who investigate, and enjoy the interactions of Atticus and Mack! A fabulous read, and I can NOT wait for more adventures with Atticus Priest!!
I received an ARC from the author who I commend for a fabulous new character, and I give You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review!! Out 3/16/2020..Be Ready To Have the Time of Your Life!!!
September 5, 2022
A good crime and legal drama with some interesting twists and really engaging characters. DCI Mackenzie Jones is investigating a mass shooting at a remote farmhouse when her case becomes all the more challenging with the arrival of disgraced former colleague turned P.I., Atticus Priest. Whilst they are working on opposite sides of this case I can't wait to see them working together in the future as I think they have incredibly good chemistry. Priest is the kind of character I enjoy as he is at quite a low point in his life but isn't dark and brooding. Instead he is a quirky guy whose Asperger's syndrome and Sherlockian skills of deduction make him a complex and compelling character. I listened to book one and two back to back as I enjoyed this author's writing style, layered plot and fully developed characters.
August 6, 2023
This is a bit of a game of two halves!
I like:-
The premise is really good and the plot well thought out. There are some enjoyable courtroom scenes where things entertainingly bat back and forth. I like Atticus and the interesting relationship he has with police officer Mack. As for the dog Bandit- adorable. It has great settings in and around Salisbury which are utilised well.
Dislike:-
The style of writing in many places is ploddy. We go in detail from A to B to C etc. There are times when I’m bored as there isn’t enough action for me.
The last 40% is the best section of the book BUT the ending is drawn out imo.
I will read Book 2, just to see if ….!!!
A KU read.
I like:-
The premise is really good and the plot well thought out. There are some enjoyable courtroom scenes where things entertainingly bat back and forth. I like Atticus and the interesting relationship he has with police officer Mack. As for the dog Bandit- adorable. It has great settings in and around Salisbury which are utilised well.
Dislike:-
The style of writing in many places is ploddy. We go in detail from A to B to C etc. There are times when I’m bored as there isn’t enough action for me.
The last 40% is the best section of the book BUT the ending is drawn out imo.
I will read Book 2, just to see if ….!!!
A KU read.
September 16, 2021
4.75 Stars (Rnd ⬆️) — THIS is why any fellow Literary-Fiction lovers whom turn their noses up at Crime-fiction — No make that GOOD crime fiction — Are simply ignoramus-of-all-ignorami 😎
Atticus Priest, a former pice detective come PI, is one of the more robust and wholly endearing Crime Protagonists I’ve ever read. Dawson paints his characters with such nuanced and delicate strokes — a skill that’s all-the-more noticeable upon reflection — that they not only come to life on the page, but they render themselves so wonderfully flawed and complete, it is as if they somehow manifest themselves onto the readers frontal-lobe as opposed to being written in segments and sentences by the author. It is Atticus himself whom most advocates this feeling. Before I even realised it, he appeared before me in what felt like the most magnificent and august manner allowable.
As for the narrative and plot-lines, they too hold up on the very most sublime way. I mean.. Wow. A near flawless exhibition of the modern-take-of-classic-themed crime thriller that Dawson has exhaled here. It has all the trademarks but they are achieved in a vivid and stately fashion that demands your engagement for the length of the novel. Mark Dawson is fast becoming the gold standard for this genre, and for darn good reason — He is superb!
Dawson underpins Atticus’ mode and motivation in such a ephemerally nuanced, deep, non-pretentiously complex whilst humanly relatable method that he is ultimately put simply an incredibly engaging persona that you just cannot move away from. Every character is so well balanced & left with an air of mystique in a way that enables tension to be built tiny piece by tiny piece until slowly but ever so surely it’s all about to burst!
This novel, centred on a man upper-class family hosting holiday season at their hut/farm in the middle of a desolate Woods, where from page one it’s abundantly clear some serious mis-deeds will take place. The main narrative delves into the aftermath of one of the family accused of murdering the entire family in this aforementioned, isolated and eery dwelling deep in the woods of England. What follows is the investigation from Atticus Priest whom is tasked by the wife of the accused to clear her ‘innocent husband’. What follows would have to be one of the most enjoyable crime novels I’ve read in years right alongside Joe IDE’s IQ. Atticus is every bit as readable as IQ & both have their skills and flaws, and use their deductive brilliance in very different ways. It’s important to note both are rubbish socially and with people, not for different reasons & both are also obviously brilliantly intelligent but what makes Atticus stand-out is that Dawson gives just enough of his background, just enough of his inner thoughts to leave the reader not only wanting more, but unsure exactly what he might do next.
Atticus Priest, a former pice detective come PI, is one of the more robust and wholly endearing Crime Protagonists I’ve ever read. Dawson paints his characters with such nuanced and delicate strokes — a skill that’s all-the-more noticeable upon reflection — that they not only come to life on the page, but they render themselves so wonderfully flawed and complete, it is as if they somehow manifest themselves onto the readers frontal-lobe as opposed to being written in segments and sentences by the author. It is Atticus himself whom most advocates this feeling. Before I even realised it, he appeared before me in what felt like the most magnificent and august manner allowable.
As for the narrative and plot-lines, they too hold up on the very most sublime way. I mean.. Wow. A near flawless exhibition of the modern-take-of-classic-themed crime thriller that Dawson has exhaled here. It has all the trademarks but they are achieved in a vivid and stately fashion that demands your engagement for the length of the novel. Mark Dawson is fast becoming the gold standard for this genre, and for darn good reason — He is superb!
Dawson underpins Atticus’ mode and motivation in such a ephemerally nuanced, deep, non-pretentiously complex whilst humanly relatable method that he is ultimately put simply an incredibly engaging persona that you just cannot move away from. Every character is so well balanced & left with an air of mystique in a way that enables tension to be built tiny piece by tiny piece until slowly but ever so surely it’s all about to burst!
This novel, centred on a man upper-class family hosting holiday season at their hut/farm in the middle of a desolate Woods, where from page one it’s abundantly clear some serious mis-deeds will take place. The main narrative delves into the aftermath of one of the family accused of murdering the entire family in this aforementioned, isolated and eery dwelling deep in the woods of England. What follows is the investigation from Atticus Priest whom is tasked by the wife of the accused to clear her ‘innocent husband’. What follows would have to be one of the most enjoyable crime novels I’ve read in years right alongside Joe IDE’s IQ. Atticus is every bit as readable as IQ & both have their skills and flaws, and use their deductive brilliance in very different ways. It’s important to note both are rubbish socially and with people, not for different reasons & both are also obviously brilliantly intelligent but what makes Atticus stand-out is that Dawson gives just enough of his background, just enough of his inner thoughts to leave the reader not only wanting more, but unsure exactly what he might do next.
July 19, 2021
I very much enjoyed this book do not know whether to rate it at 4 or 5. Perhaps, after I have written my review, I will know. I have read many books by Mark Dawson in his John Milton series and have enjoyed all of them to one degree or another, my ratings ranging from 3 to 5. Whereas Milton was a government assassin gone bad (or good, depending upon your point of view) Atticus Priest is a brilliant yet very quirky private detective who is nearly down to his last shilling.
Wondering where his next meal will come from, Priest is approached by a young woman whose husband has been charged with murdering his parents, brother and sister (which is apparently illegal in Britain, even if they are really annoying). The trial is scheduled to begin almost immediately so Priest has little time and the prosecution has a mountain of evidence, albeit, entirely circumstantial. Priest digs into the evidence and begins to find little cracks here and there (mostly there). The story is a bit of a locked room mystery since the four deceased parties are found inside of a house whose windows and doors were all locked.
The plot is quite clever, very complex and compelling enough for me to very much look forward to my nightly reading time. The primary characters are generally well crafted quite complex and three-dimensional. Priest himself is a wonderfully quirky fellow who combines brilliance, a touch of Asperger's syndrome and an excellent dry sense of humor. The writing is straightforward and quite nicely done in a sophisticated yet easy-to-follow manner. Dawson does not, like so many authors, try to wow readers with a spectacular vocabulary.
Given the above, I suppose that a rating of five is in order. I will eagerly look forward to reading the next Atticus Priest book, which, conveniently, is already out although I never read books by the same author in succession. I rather strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries with many twists and turns which The House in the Woods definitely has.
Over and Out
Wondering where his next meal will come from, Priest is approached by a young woman whose husband has been charged with murdering his parents, brother and sister (which is apparently illegal in Britain, even if they are really annoying). The trial is scheduled to begin almost immediately so Priest has little time and the prosecution has a mountain of evidence, albeit, entirely circumstantial. Priest digs into the evidence and begins to find little cracks here and there (mostly there). The story is a bit of a locked room mystery since the four deceased parties are found inside of a house whose windows and doors were all locked.
The plot is quite clever, very complex and compelling enough for me to very much look forward to my nightly reading time. The primary characters are generally well crafted quite complex and three-dimensional. Priest himself is a wonderfully quirky fellow who combines brilliance, a touch of Asperger's syndrome and an excellent dry sense of humor. The writing is straightforward and quite nicely done in a sophisticated yet easy-to-follow manner. Dawson does not, like so many authors, try to wow readers with a spectacular vocabulary.
Given the above, I suppose that a rating of five is in order. I will eagerly look forward to reading the next Atticus Priest book, which, conveniently, is already out although I never read books by the same author in succession. I rather strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries with many twists and turns which The House in the Woods definitely has.
Over and Out
October 2, 2025
Four murders. Two detectives. One horrific crime.
And a 5-star ending.
On Christmas Eve, DCI Mackenzie Jones is called to a shooting at a remote farmhouse. Four dead family members are discovered in a pool of blood.
Who killed these family members and why?
Quickly dubbed "The Christmas Eve Massacre" by the media, these murders were originally believed to have been a murder-suicide committed by a volatile brother of the deceased family.
Recent evidence uncovered, however, now points to the sole-surviving family member who called the police. Did this family member really kill his entire family?
"The House in the Woods" is the first book in Mark Dawson's new Mackenzie Jones/Atticus Priest series. "A Place to Bury Strangers" is the second book in the series.
Both books were fast-paced, mesmerizing tales of obsession and betrayal with two deeply flawed protagonists. Both thrillers were smart, textured, and absorbingly atmospheric - with no shortage of compelling twists and turns.
"The House in the Woods" was my favorite book of the two.
It was author Mark Dawson's superb skills in character development and brilliant police procedurals that set this book apart from similar books in its genre.
Protagonist Atticus Priest, a former police detective, is not your "typical" private investigator. He is irascible, impatient, unpredictable, and endearing -- all at the same time. Atticus painstakingly picks at the loose ends of the case, taking the investigation discovery process to the next level.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narration was flawless.
Hopefully, Mark Dawson will be adding many new titles to the riveting new series.
February 22, 2020
Am ashamed to say that this is the first book I have read by Mark Dawson. He has been on my reading radar for a while now but The House In The Woods is my first opportunity and introduction to his work. What an introduction as well!
How the story starts off, I couldn't help but be reminded of a certain series that has recently just run on television to do with a true story that happened in the 1980's. Whilst the story starts off with similar circumstances, that's where they end. What follows is a crime fiction readers dream.
This has a bit of everything. An ex copper turned private investigator and a DCI who both have history. We get to see the investigation side of things as well as what goes on in the court room. I’m not usually a lover of stories in a court room as can find all the technical jargon goes over my head. This though was such riveting stuff and having done jury service myself, spot on. The author’s descriptions brought it all to life and it made for some edge of your seat reading.
The House In The Woods is a page turner of a read that thrilled and excited me at the same time. There are some red herrings that skilfully have the reader looking in the wrong direction and when all becomes clear, well wow! I did not see that coming! As the revelations come to light, I let myself relax thinking that’s all the excitement done with. Well wasn’t I wrong. The author pulls out one last trick up his sleeve that has left me desperate for the next book. LOVED my first introduction to this author and oh boy, will I be reading more.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
How the story starts off, I couldn't help but be reminded of a certain series that has recently just run on television to do with a true story that happened in the 1980's. Whilst the story starts off with similar circumstances, that's where they end. What follows is a crime fiction readers dream.
This has a bit of everything. An ex copper turned private investigator and a DCI who both have history. We get to see the investigation side of things as well as what goes on in the court room. I’m not usually a lover of stories in a court room as can find all the technical jargon goes over my head. This though was such riveting stuff and having done jury service myself, spot on. The author’s descriptions brought it all to life and it made for some edge of your seat reading.
The House In The Woods is a page turner of a read that thrilled and excited me at the same time. There are some red herrings that skilfully have the reader looking in the wrong direction and when all becomes clear, well wow! I did not see that coming! As the revelations come to light, I let myself relax thinking that’s all the excitement done with. Well wasn’t I wrong. The author pulls out one last trick up his sleeve that has left me desperate for the next book. LOVED my first introduction to this author and oh boy, will I be reading more.
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
December 22, 2024
This is part of my 2024 Cleaning Out the TBR Closet challenge, because this book has been on my to-read list since Oct2020. Initially, I had added it as a holiday murder mystery read because the story starts with four murders on Christmas Eve. Fast forward four years later and I’m finally getting around to it. LOL
Anyway, the book summary is pretty thin and basically just introduces the two MC’s, Mac and Atticus, and the primary storyline of the investigation of the four Christmas Eve deaths of a family at the family home. What started out as a murder/suicide investigation of a son killing his parents and a sister, suddenly turns into just a murder investigation of another son killing his parents and two siblings. There is also a secondary storyline of Atticus, a pot smoking, former police officer turned PI, working again with his former chief/lover, Mackenzie, a seasoned DCI, who is also married. When Mac’s husband found out about the affair, Mac had initially left her husband and lived with Atticus, but eventually returned to her husband because she missed her kids. Atticus kind of went off the rails and got fired from the force by being caught smoking pot. None of this is a spoiler since it’s revealed really early in the story.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation of the murders and the subsequent court case, and Atticus’s investigation of the defendant, Ralph, who is married to Atticus’s client, Allegra. So lots of courtroom scenes and drama. The story flips back and forth between Atticus and Mac, who is definitely keeping her tabs on Atticus. I like Atticus; he’s a deeply flawed individual, who can be his own worst enemy sometimes. However, he is doggie daddy to Bandit, who he rescued from his drug dealer, who was neglecting and probably abusing him. That makes Atticus good people in my book. Bandit, a German Shorthaired Pointer, was adorable and I loved every scene with him.
Really early in the story, my armchair detective zeroed in on one particular suspect and I never really waivered from that person. I was right – sort of, but the ending was still pretty shocking, in a whole other way. However, it was interesting seeing Atticus and Mac working the case and collecting clues and leads. The capture was kind of intense and scary and the very end was a lead-in to the next installment, that I haven’t decided if I’m going to continue the series. I read way too many of these and while it was good, I have so many other books on my to-read list that I would rather get to.
The character development for Atticus and Mac along with a couple of other characters was pretty good. The pacing was steady to fast and the storyline very interesting. The writing was ok, which is the most I can say about a story that wasn’t really all that surprising. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review.
Anyway, the book summary is pretty thin and basically just introduces the two MC’s, Mac and Atticus, and the primary storyline of the investigation of the four Christmas Eve deaths of a family at the family home. What started out as a murder/suicide investigation of a son killing his parents and a sister, suddenly turns into just a murder investigation of another son killing his parents and two siblings. There is also a secondary storyline of Atticus, a pot smoking, former police officer turned PI, working again with his former chief/lover, Mackenzie, a seasoned DCI, who is also married. When Mac’s husband found out about the affair, Mac had initially left her husband and lived with Atticus, but eventually returned to her husband because she missed her kids. Atticus kind of went off the rails and got fired from the force by being caught smoking pot. None of this is a spoiler since it’s revealed really early in the story.
Most of the story revolves around the investigation of the murders and the subsequent court case, and Atticus’s investigation of the defendant, Ralph, who is married to Atticus’s client, Allegra. So lots of courtroom scenes and drama. The story flips back and forth between Atticus and Mac, who is definitely keeping her tabs on Atticus. I like Atticus; he’s a deeply flawed individual, who can be his own worst enemy sometimes. However, he is doggie daddy to Bandit, who he rescued from his drug dealer, who was neglecting and probably abusing him. That makes Atticus good people in my book. Bandit, a German Shorthaired Pointer, was adorable and I loved every scene with him.
Really early in the story, my armchair detective zeroed in on one particular suspect and I never really waivered from that person. I was right – sort of, but the ending was still pretty shocking, in a whole other way. However, it was interesting seeing Atticus and Mac working the case and collecting clues and leads. The capture was kind of intense and scary and the very end was a lead-in to the next installment, that I haven’t decided if I’m going to continue the series. I read way too many of these and while it was good, I have so many other books on my to-read list that I would rather get to.
The character development for Atticus and Mac along with a couple of other characters was pretty good. The pacing was steady to fast and the storyline very interesting. The writing was ok, which is the most I can say about a story that wasn’t really all that surprising. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review.
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July 22, 2025
2.5-Stars ^ 3.0-Stars for "The House in the Woods" - 2020.
Audiobook: 09:55 Hours - Narrator: Simon Vance
I think "Atticus Priest" is an interesting name for a former police detective, but he didn't live up to my expectations of his role as a Private Investigator.
Atticus Priest is said to be somewhere "on the spectrum" and is taking medications for what is referred to as ADHD. This aspect of his character doesn't present itself much during the story and I wonder if this is yet another example of an author using a main character who is "on the spectrum" as a creative device to enhance the book's narrative. If this was Mark Dawson's intention, I think it added very little of value as far as Atticus Priest, or the book, were concerned.
At almost 10:00 hours (496 pages), "The House in the Woods" was longer than it needed to be and by the time I reached 50% or so, I was beginning to feel a bit jaded. The main plot, the associated plots, and the more-or-less main storyline wandered hither and yon, with Atticus relying on moments of 'intuition', or 'deep introspection' and the like, to keep everything moving. Some decent editing would have been appropriate, but it was like it had to be "500 pages", or "ten hours", so that's what we had to read or hear.
Look, I know it's Fiction, but plausibility plays a significant role in this type of book, particularly one that is part police procedural and part murder trial, with some 'human interest' thrown in. No spoilers, but as an example, the part played by one of the prosecution's important witnesses could have been wholly excised from the book, without any effect on the story told or the outcome of the trial! The role I refer to was nothing more than salacious and highly implausible padding.
Even the ending was drawn out, the 'possible/probable' outcomes being clouded by some 'twists' and obfuscations. It rarely happens that I correctly predict who was the actual 'baddie', but I did it quite early during the second half of the book and the remaining hours seemed to drag as I waited for the final denouement, plus an epilogue, no less.
The narration by Simon Vance was very good and contributed to my overall, yet diluted, enjoyment of this book.
From My Reading Activity:
Commenced: 16 July, 2025
Jul 16, 2025 @ 11%: "I have 30 audiobooks by Mark Dawson in my collection and I have heard only nine of them to date. Hopefully "Atticus Priest" will stimulate my listening and help me deal with this on and off slump! "
Jul 17, 2025 @ 53%: "I started this one with an open and hopeful mind - I have a few Mark Dawson audiobooks that I've rated 4-Stars - but it's been a fairly slow burn to reach the 53% mark with this one and I think I am wavering. I will finish it, but..."
Jul 20, 2025 @ 75%: "Since I was 'wavering', I avoided this book for several days, resuming my listening last night. I'll finish it for sure, but it is not a winner for me, although it has been a reasonably enjoyable listen to date."
Jul 21, 2025 @ 99%: "As a paperback, this book is 496 pages long and was rated 4.25-Stars by 12,700+ GR readers. As an audiobook of almost 10:00 hours it looked like a reasonable proposition for me - unfortunately it wasn't😕. Rating and Review to come."
Audiobook: 09:55 Hours - Narrator: Simon Vance
I think "Atticus Priest" is an interesting name for a former police detective, but he didn't live up to my expectations of his role as a Private Investigator.
Atticus Priest is said to be somewhere "on the spectrum" and is taking medications for what is referred to as ADHD. This aspect of his character doesn't present itself much during the story and I wonder if this is yet another example of an author using a main character who is "on the spectrum" as a creative device to enhance the book's narrative. If this was Mark Dawson's intention, I think it added very little of value as far as Atticus Priest, or the book, were concerned.
At almost 10:00 hours (496 pages), "The House in the Woods" was longer than it needed to be and by the time I reached 50% or so, I was beginning to feel a bit jaded. The main plot, the associated plots, and the more-or-less main storyline wandered hither and yon, with Atticus relying on moments of 'intuition', or 'deep introspection' and the like, to keep everything moving. Some decent editing would have been appropriate, but it was like it had to be "500 pages", or "ten hours", so that's what we had to read or hear.
Look, I know it's Fiction, but plausibility plays a significant role in this type of book, particularly one that is part police procedural and part murder trial, with some 'human interest' thrown in. No spoilers, but as an example, the part played by one of the prosecution's important witnesses could have been wholly excised from the book, without any effect on the story told or the outcome of the trial! The role I refer to was nothing more than salacious and highly implausible padding.
Even the ending was drawn out, the 'possible/probable' outcomes being clouded by some 'twists' and obfuscations. It rarely happens that I correctly predict who was the actual 'baddie', but I did it quite early during the second half of the book and the remaining hours seemed to drag as I waited for the final denouement, plus an epilogue, no less.
The narration by Simon Vance was very good and contributed to my overall, yet diluted, enjoyment of this book.
From My Reading Activity:
Commenced: 16 July, 2025
Jul 16, 2025 @ 11%: "I have 30 audiobooks by Mark Dawson in my collection and I have heard only nine of them to date. Hopefully "Atticus Priest" will stimulate my listening and help me deal with this on and off slump! "
Jul 17, 2025 @ 53%: "I started this one with an open and hopeful mind - I have a few Mark Dawson audiobooks that I've rated 4-Stars - but it's been a fairly slow burn to reach the 53% mark with this one and I think I am wavering. I will finish it, but..."
Jul 20, 2025 @ 75%: "Since I was 'wavering', I avoided this book for several days, resuming my listening last night. I'll finish it for sure, but it is not a winner for me, although it has been a reasonably enjoyable listen to date."
Jul 21, 2025 @ 99%: "As a paperback, this book is 496 pages long and was rated 4.25-Stars by 12,700+ GR readers. As an audiobook of almost 10:00 hours it looked like a reasonable proposition for me - unfortunately it wasn't😕. Rating and Review to come."
August 4, 2020
Well, I always thought I was a lover of crime thrillers, however this book hasn't done that much to reinforce it. I found it lacking action, lots of telling and not very exciting or gripping. For example, the book opens with the aftermath of the slaughter at the house in the woods. Why not show the terror and the horror that the victims experienced? A bit of foreshadowing to hook the reader could have been included in this.
I didn't find the plot that clever, nor interesting.
I must acknowledge that this version was the audio.
I didn't enjoy the narrator's performance. The characters were bland and uninteresting.
I did see it through to the end because I was hoping for something to happen. But even in the attempts of an exciting scene, the author never made the most of when the main character was held against his will. I never had that nail biting sit on the edge of my chair moment throughout.
The only thing that kept me going was the need to know who did it, which was probably the only surprise I received.
Am giving it 2 stars purely because I stayed with it through to the end.
I didn't find the plot that clever, nor interesting.
I must acknowledge that this version was the audio.
I didn't enjoy the narrator's performance. The characters were bland and uninteresting.
I did see it through to the end because I was hoping for something to happen. But even in the attempts of an exciting scene, the author never made the most of when the main character was held against his will. I never had that nail biting sit on the edge of my chair moment throughout.
The only thing that kept me going was the need to know who did it, which was probably the only surprise I received.
Am giving it 2 stars purely because I stayed with it through to the end.
January 11, 2025
3,0 ✨✨✨
(Audiobook)
(Audiobook)
July 7, 2020
This enjoyable beginning to a series featuring private investigator Atticus Priest and his former boss DCI Mackenzie "Mac" Jones investigates a mass family murder on Christmas eve. Originally thought to be a murders-suicide, the gun placement and finding of a way to exit the house unnoticed shifts attention to the surviving brother. He is charged with the murder, and on the eve of his trial, his wife hires Atticus to help find something to overturn the prosecution's case. Has he been called to the case too late to find evidence? Mac's marriage suffers as a result of the hours she spends on the job. She and Atticus participated in a brief affair with one another when he worked for the police, but she doesn't want to lose her children so she's determined to keep things innocent. This first installment keeps readers guessing about what may happen in the next installment on the personal and professional fronts. The mystery kept me interested, and although I picked up on things that made me suspect what was really going on, I still enjoyed the "reveal." I look forward to the next installment. Narrator Simon Vance did a great job! I won this through LibraryThing Early Reviewers program with the expectation of an honest review.
September 26, 2024
Listened.
4 stars for the story, plus an extra star for Simon Vance's spectacular performance.
First off, I'd like to offer up great big shout-out of thanks to my GR friend Lavins for recommending this series. I enjoyed this book so much I just downloaded #2. I am taking a road trip to Cape Cod this weekend and will listen during the long journey.
The MC, Atticus Priest, reminded me a lot of Daniel Hawthorne who stars in Anthony Horowitz's Hawthorne & Horowitz series. He is an ex-cop who lost his job because of bad behavior. He is quirky. Uber smart. Funny, but in the driest and drollest of ways. Both men have a preternatural ability to read people and uncover clues that others miss. I hadn't realized until this book how much I adore this conceit (or is it a trope?).
Where Daniel has Anthony as his sidekick, Atticus has his former colleague and one-time lover, Mack--as in DCI Mackenzie Jones. Their repartee is charming. Oh, and Atticus also has Bandit. Bandit is the most perfect dog in the world, btw. And their love for one another in the midst of all these murders and deceit is a welcome bit of warmth. (I am referring to Bandit in that last sentence--not Mack.)
I pretty much figured out who the guilty party was early on--most avid mystery/suspense readers will as well. But DO NOT let that stop you. It matters not who DID IT (because, frankly: the resolution is a bit stale). This book was--for me, anyway--very much a character-driven story. Yes, the murder investigation is dramatic, as are some of the court scenes. But oh, I had the loveliest time listening to this book.
Had I read this book I am not 1000% certain I would have been as gripped as I was. The audiobook was perfection, and I couldn't wait to get back to it.
Fully entertaining. Great characters. Good enough plot. Time well-spent. xx
4 stars for the story, plus an extra star for Simon Vance's spectacular performance.
First off, I'd like to offer up great big shout-out of thanks to my GR friend Lavins for recommending this series. I enjoyed this book so much I just downloaded #2. I am taking a road trip to Cape Cod this weekend and will listen during the long journey.
The MC, Atticus Priest, reminded me a lot of Daniel Hawthorne who stars in Anthony Horowitz's Hawthorne & Horowitz series. He is an ex-cop who lost his job because of bad behavior. He is quirky. Uber smart. Funny, but in the driest and drollest of ways. Both men have a preternatural ability to read people and uncover clues that others miss. I hadn't realized until this book how much I adore this conceit (or is it a trope?).
Where Daniel has Anthony as his sidekick, Atticus has his former colleague and one-time lover, Mack--as in DCI Mackenzie Jones. Their repartee is charming. Oh, and Atticus also has Bandit. Bandit is the most perfect dog in the world, btw. And their love for one another in the midst of all these murders and deceit is a welcome bit of warmth. (I am referring to Bandit in that last sentence--not Mack.)
I pretty much figured out who the guilty party was early on--most avid mystery/suspense readers will as well. But DO NOT let that stop you. It matters not who DID IT (because, frankly: the resolution is a bit stale). This book was--for me, anyway--very much a character-driven story. Yes, the murder investigation is dramatic, as are some of the court scenes. But oh, I had the loveliest time listening to this book.
Had I read this book I am not 1000% certain I would have been as gripped as I was. The audiobook was perfection, and I couldn't wait to get back to it.
Fully entertaining. Great characters. Good enough plot. Time well-spent. xx
November 2, 2024
The problem with new series is the book takes longer for it to gel for me as I assume everything I read is important going forward. Not just to build the plot in the story I’m reading but the characters who will continue in the books.
Now Atticus Priest is an absorbing but complex character and the main protagonist in this series. His skill set isn’t unique but he is quite unique with the composite intelligence of many detectives who have passed before while having a quite individual back story. Black sheep of the family; high-end functioning person with Aspergers. Yet with poor social skills and unable to adequately demonstrate empathy.
Brilliant, creative, a natural problem solver with an inability to let matters rest without solutions. Unfortunately, he has lost his job with the police and is now down on his luck. Low on money, desperate to find something to satisfy his natural talents he opens a detective agency.
Like in an American PI novel a beautiful woman enters his office/home with a job offering money he could only dream of and a challenge he could use his skills to bring hope.
Her husband is on trial and the case against was brought by his former team and led by his previous boss / “lover”.
The court case is just about to start and the evidence seems to point to his guilt. Can he find anything to raise reasonable doubt?
A good premise to read on but just too much like hard work when I wanted to be carried away into escapism rather than pore over every word and intellectually relate to a compelling series where the author was working so hard to set the scene in character, back story and locations.
So I set the book aside and read other things, less demanding.
Trouble is I love the author from his many action thrillers; love his pacing, craft in setting out stories and ability to write 3D characters with real language and fresh ideas.
So once my mindset was less escapism I devoured this book.
It was worth it and rewarded me with what I anticipated it could be. It’s potential was realised and the series is well set to read on and explore the world of Atticus Prime.
So please pick up this book when you have the time to read it; it isn’t a dipper. It is intense at time with high-octane action and covers many dark aspects of family life and the desires that provide motives for murder.
Well worth reading. Additive, absorbing and introducing us to the wonderful Atticus Prime.
Now Atticus Priest is an absorbing but complex character and the main protagonist in this series. His skill set isn’t unique but he is quite unique with the composite intelligence of many detectives who have passed before while having a quite individual back story. Black sheep of the family; high-end functioning person with Aspergers. Yet with poor social skills and unable to adequately demonstrate empathy.
Brilliant, creative, a natural problem solver with an inability to let matters rest without solutions. Unfortunately, he has lost his job with the police and is now down on his luck. Low on money, desperate to find something to satisfy his natural talents he opens a detective agency.
Like in an American PI novel a beautiful woman enters his office/home with a job offering money he could only dream of and a challenge he could use his skills to bring hope.
Her husband is on trial and the case against was brought by his former team and led by his previous boss / “lover”.
The court case is just about to start and the evidence seems to point to his guilt. Can he find anything to raise reasonable doubt?
A good premise to read on but just too much like hard work when I wanted to be carried away into escapism rather than pore over every word and intellectually relate to a compelling series where the author was working so hard to set the scene in character, back story and locations.
So I set the book aside and read other things, less demanding.
Trouble is I love the author from his many action thrillers; love his pacing, craft in setting out stories and ability to write 3D characters with real language and fresh ideas.
So once my mindset was less escapism I devoured this book.
It was worth it and rewarded me with what I anticipated it could be. It’s potential was realised and the series is well set to read on and explore the world of Atticus Prime.
So please pick up this book when you have the time to read it; it isn’t a dipper. It is intense at time with high-octane action and covers many dark aspects of family life and the desires that provide motives for murder.
Well worth reading. Additive, absorbing and introducing us to the wonderful Atticus Prime.
November 19, 2021
Amazon keep offering me Mark Dawson books in the Kindle Daily Deal, and as he seems to have many high ratings, I thought I'd give him a go. I understand the high ratings on this one, as many readers love police mystery/thrillers with enigmatic protagonists, but it averaged out as a 3 for me. It was a fascinating plot, which initially pulled me in, but things started getting out of hand when nearly everyone had a turn at being the murder suspect. I liked the main characters, Mack and Atticus, and their see-saw relationship, although there was a bit too much of J K Rowling's Cormorant Strike in Atticus for me. Although it was an easy and entertaining read, there were a couple of things about Mark Dawson's style that I find off-putting. He has a habit of telling the reader something (Atticus felt lonely) and then hammering the point home by showing it too (he looked wistfully at families Christmas shopping). These examples aren't word for word, but you get the idea. Also, Dawson tries to show off by throwing in the occasional over elaborate word that sticks out like a sore thumb. Not a bad story, with decent characters, but as many cons as pros for a nit-picker like me. Not that Mark Dawson or his fans will care what I think!
July 8, 2025
Sleek - ready for film making.
I felt a disconnect, it might be because of the writing in third person.
July 11, 2023
4 / 5
This book is almost like the Steve carvangh series but a one man band. I was blown away by the twists but equally how compelling and gripping the book was. This is definitely going to be a series I keep my eyes on.
The book follows Atticus Priest, a disgraced police officer kicked out of the force after being caught smoking pot outside of the office. He’s working as a private investigator making ends met, living in an office block turned into his home. He is approached by Allegra Mallender whose husband Ralph Mallender is on trial for murdering his entire family over Christmas. His ex- boss Mackenzie Jones tackled the initial callout, who is providing evidence against Ralph. It’s Atticus’ job to prove Ralph is innocent, what was meant to be a simple job reveals a series of secrets along the way.
This book had everything, court procedures, thorough investigations, character development all in one go. I was gripped with the plot due to how captivating the plot was. The twists and reveals I completely did not see anything coming. A great book to start the series off! This book also has a thing about chess, so all the avid chess players this is definitely a book worth reading. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, I liked how we were able to relate to Atticus and his personal problems. Will be keeping my eyes on this series for sure!
This book is almost like the Steve carvangh series but a one man band. I was blown away by the twists but equally how compelling and gripping the book was. This is definitely going to be a series I keep my eyes on.
The book follows Atticus Priest, a disgraced police officer kicked out of the force after being caught smoking pot outside of the office. He’s working as a private investigator making ends met, living in an office block turned into his home. He is approached by Allegra Mallender whose husband Ralph Mallender is on trial for murdering his entire family over Christmas. His ex- boss Mackenzie Jones tackled the initial callout, who is providing evidence against Ralph. It’s Atticus’ job to prove Ralph is innocent, what was meant to be a simple job reveals a series of secrets along the way.
This book had everything, court procedures, thorough investigations, character development all in one go. I was gripped with the plot due to how captivating the plot was. The twists and reveals I completely did not see anything coming. A great book to start the series off! This book also has a thing about chess, so all the avid chess players this is definitely a book worth reading. Overall, I really enjoyed this book, I liked how we were able to relate to Atticus and his personal problems. Will be keeping my eyes on this series for sure!
December 15, 2021
5 stars audio
4 stars story
4 stars story
July 26, 2020
The House In The Woods 3.5 Stars
Four murders. Two detectives. One mystifying crime. On Christmas Eve, DCI Mackenzie Jones is called to a shooting at a remote farmhouse. Ralph Mallender believes his father lies dead inside. When three more bodies are discovered, it’s clear a festive family gathering has turned into a gruesome tragedy. At first it seems like an open and shut case: a murder suicide committed by Ralph’s volatile brother Cameron. Then new evidence makes Mack suspect the man who reported the crime is in fact the perpetrator. But Mack isn’t the only one with a stake in the case. Private investigator Atticus Priest has been hired to get Ralph acquitted. That means unearthing any weaknesses in Mack’s evidence.
A really enjoyable start to a brand new series for me to read written by Mark Dawson. This is my first Mark Dawson read. The House in the Woods is the first book in the Atticus Priest series. Can I just say, who is not going to love a character whose name is ‘Atticus’? Atticus is an ex-police officer turned private detective who seems to have quite the reputation, and knows how to get things done. He has a loveable sidekick named Bandit. Oh hello!….who wouldn’t love a dog called that? He might just be my second favourite character. All in all, very easy to read, although I have to say that the story is largely drudgery until very late in the book, I almost gave up but I’m so glad I persisted, as the ending is worth reading. I’m hoping that the next book in the series will start with a bang.
Four murders. Two detectives. One mystifying crime. On Christmas Eve, DCI Mackenzie Jones is called to a shooting at a remote farmhouse. Ralph Mallender believes his father lies dead inside. When three more bodies are discovered, it’s clear a festive family gathering has turned into a gruesome tragedy. At first it seems like an open and shut case: a murder suicide committed by Ralph’s volatile brother Cameron. Then new evidence makes Mack suspect the man who reported the crime is in fact the perpetrator. But Mack isn’t the only one with a stake in the case. Private investigator Atticus Priest has been hired to get Ralph acquitted. That means unearthing any weaknesses in Mack’s evidence.
A really enjoyable start to a brand new series for me to read written by Mark Dawson. This is my first Mark Dawson read. The House in the Woods is the first book in the Atticus Priest series. Can I just say, who is not going to love a character whose name is ‘Atticus’? Atticus is an ex-police officer turned private detective who seems to have quite the reputation, and knows how to get things done. He has a loveable sidekick named Bandit. Oh hello!….who wouldn’t love a dog called that? He might just be my second favourite character. All in all, very easy to read, although I have to say that the story is largely drudgery until very late in the book, I almost gave up but I’m so glad I persisted, as the ending is worth reading. I’m hoping that the next book in the series will start with a bang.
April 13, 2020
A really enjoyable start to a new series by Mark Dawson that definitely left me wanting more! With twists and turns galore, a very amiable protagonist and a plot that kept me glued to my sofa The House in the Woods was a welcome addition to my reading pile. The plot may sound a little familiar with true crime fans spotting a few similarities with a heinous crime that has recently had more publicity but be aware that the direction this fictional story takes isn’t as clear cut. Atticus is an intriguing character and one that kept surprising me throughout as he is hired as a private investigator by the wife of a man accused of wiping out his entire family. I liked the chemistry he had with Mack and they complimented each other perfectly as they work on different aspects of the case but with both having the same end goal.
I really enjoyed this one and looking forward to book 2 as the final few pages definitely got me in the mood for more!
I really enjoyed this one and looking forward to book 2 as the final few pages definitely got me in the mood for more!
April 6, 2020
Good not great. I liked the main characters and it was an interesting story. I like Mark Dawson's writing style. I just didn't keep me on the edge of my seat. It kept me interested but not in a way that I just had to read some more.
March 5, 2021
Absolutely loved this book, really exciting. I loved the atmosphere, dark, threatening, tense. Atticus is a great new PI, with a messy, disorganized personal life but brilliantly clever at his job. Will look forward to reading more by this writer.
December 3, 2025
Pirmas sakinys: Suskambus telefonui, detektyvė vyresnioji inspektorė Makenzė Džouns skuto bulves ir klausėsi Bingo Krosbio.
Patiko:
• pagrindiniai detektyvai: tiek Atikas Prystas, tiek Makenzė Džouns.
• Atiko Prysto smegenys, ego ir kandumas. Chaosas bute-ofise ir tvarka galvoje. Deja, autorius teisus, kad grynasis protas kelia daug problemų – Atikas "buvo pradėjęs pratintis prie slegiančios minties, kad gali tekti ieškotis kito darbo. Gal net imtis šeimos verslo" (31 p.).
• Mekėj Džouns atpažinau tą tipažą, kuriam svarbiausia, kad rezultatas būtų tobulas, o į aplinką (šeima), darbinę etiką () ir kt. galima žiūrėti atlaidžiau.
• lengvos aliuzijos į Šerloką Holmsą (Atiko Prysto pastabumas ir dedukcinės išvados).
• istorijos dinamika ir intriga: tyrimas užtrunka kelias dienas, netempiama su siužeto posūkiais, nemažai dialogų.
• lengva ironija ir britiškas humoras.
• Banditas (šuo) ir šachmatai.
• leidyklos "Balto" sprendimas detektyvų formatui (jeigu galima daryti išvadą iš dviejų knygų – kita yra Elly Griffiths "Kaulų kelias"): kampuotumas, tamsios spalvos (mėlyna ir juoda) su ryškiomis detalėmis (geltona ir raudona), juodi puslapių kraštai.
Nustebino:
• kad pastebėjau užuominą () ir gana anksti atspėjau žudiką. Todėl neužkibau ant , tačiau viso nusikaltimo schemos vis tiek nesudėliojau – intriga išliko iki pabaigos.
• tyrimas (ir pasakojimas) vyko kelias dienas – susidarė įspūdis, kad kituose detektyvuose viskas vyksta savaitėmis ar mėnesiais.
Standartiškai:
• žudikas nustatomas ne iš karto (keli siužeto posūkiai, nes vienas klaidingas), pabaigoje (ir ne tik) vyksta kova dėl gyvybės (o tokia graži aliuzija į Erkiulį Puaro, kai ), komplikuoti (labai) pagrindinių detektyvų tarpusavio santykiai ().
• paliktos kelios linijos kitoms dalims: šachmatų varžovė Jack_of Hearts, Alfredas Bernsas(?), kas bus toliau tarp Atiko ir Mekės.
Detektyvai su Atiku Prystu –naujausia Mark'o Dawson'o serijų (neskaičiuojant jaunesniems skaitytojams skirtos "The After-School Detective Club"): pradėta 2020 m. ir jau yra 4 romanai anglų kalba (2020 m., 2021 m., 2023 m., 2024 m.).
Laukiu tęsinių lietuviškai, kad nereikėtų laužyti akių angliškai.
P. S. Vaikiški žaidimai: Patiko Atiko Prysto serija –> Patiko Atiko P. serija –> Patiko P. Atiko serija –> Patiko PAtiko serija. Verdiktas: serija Patikas!
4.8/5✰
Patiko:
• pagrindiniai detektyvai: tiek Atikas Prystas, tiek Makenzė Džouns.
• Atiko Prysto smegenys, ego ir kandumas. Chaosas bute-ofise ir tvarka galvoje. Deja, autorius teisus, kad grynasis protas kelia daug problemų – Atikas "buvo pradėjęs pratintis prie slegiančios minties, kad gali tekti ieškotis kito darbo. Gal net imtis šeimos verslo" (31 p.).
• Mekėj Džouns atpažinau tą tipažą, kuriam svarbiausia, kad rezultatas būtų tobulas, o į aplinką (šeima), darbinę etiką () ir kt. galima žiūrėti atlaidžiau.
• lengvos aliuzijos į Šerloką Holmsą (Atiko Prysto pastabumas ir dedukcinės išvados).
• istorijos dinamika ir intriga: tyrimas užtrunka kelias dienas, netempiama su siužeto posūkiais, nemažai dialogų.
• lengva ironija ir britiškas humoras.
• Banditas (šuo) ir šachmatai.
• leidyklos "Balto" sprendimas detektyvų formatui (jeigu galima daryti išvadą iš dviejų knygų – kita yra Elly Griffiths "Kaulų kelias"): kampuotumas, tamsios spalvos (mėlyna ir juoda) su ryškiomis detalėmis (geltona ir raudona), juodi puslapių kraštai.
Nustebino:
• kad pastebėjau užuominą () ir gana anksti atspėjau žudiką. Todėl neužkibau ant , tačiau viso nusikaltimo schemos vis tiek nesudėliojau – intriga išliko iki pabaigos.
• tyrimas (ir pasakojimas) vyko kelias dienas – susidarė įspūdis, kad kituose detektyvuose viskas vyksta savaitėmis ar mėnesiais.
Standartiškai:
• žudikas nustatomas ne iš karto (keli siužeto posūkiai, nes vienas klaidingas), pabaigoje (ir ne tik) vyksta kova dėl gyvybės (o tokia graži aliuzija į Erkiulį Puaro, kai ), komplikuoti (labai) pagrindinių detektyvų tarpusavio santykiai ().
• paliktos kelios linijos kitoms dalims: šachmatų varžovė Jack_of Hearts, Alfredas Bernsas(?), kas bus toliau tarp Atiko ir Mekės.
Detektyvai su Atiku Prystu –naujausia Mark'o Dawson'o serijų (neskaičiuojant jaunesniems skaitytojams skirtos "The After-School Detective Club"): pradėta 2020 m. ir jau yra 4 romanai anglų kalba (2020 m., 2021 m., 2023 m., 2024 m.).
Laukiu tęsinių lietuviškai, kad nereikėtų laužyti akių angliškai.
P. S. Vaikiški žaidimai: Patiko Atiko Prysto serija –> Patiko Atiko P. serija –> Patiko P. Atiko serija –> Patiko PAtiko serija. Verdiktas: serija Patikas!
4.8/5✰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2025
‘The House in the Woods’ by Mark Dawson is excellent! I could not bear to hit stop on my Libby audiobook download, but of course I had to. I highly recommend this exciting and twisty procedural! I plan to go on with the Atticus Priest mystery series. Although this is book one, there are no loose ends at the finish, except there are hints at more mysteries to come, including a stalker.
Atticus is an ex-cop, having been fired over a failed drug test. He is trying to build a private detective agency, take care of his new dog, and move on from his relationship with a married police officer, DCI Mackenzie Jones. She is the one who called off the affair because her husband threatened to take their children away from her. Because of not being able to see her anymore, Atticus lost his enthusiasm for police work and began using drugs, which led to his being fired. He did not have any friends on the force except for Mac because he is a bit on the autism spectrum. While his talent at noticing things was good, his inability to engage emotionally was not. No one spoke up for him when he was fired.
When the wife of an accused murderer hires Atticus to find exonerating evidence before his trial, it is a relief! He can pay bills. But he learns he will have to discredit the police investigation led by Mac. Wow. She is certain to think he is taking this case out of revenge. Plus, as his investigation progresses, so do the twists and turns. So many complications! Thank goodness for us readers, right? Right?
Atticus is an ex-cop, having been fired over a failed drug test. He is trying to build a private detective agency, take care of his new dog, and move on from his relationship with a married police officer, DCI Mackenzie Jones. She is the one who called off the affair because her husband threatened to take their children away from her. Because of not being able to see her anymore, Atticus lost his enthusiasm for police work and began using drugs, which led to his being fired. He did not have any friends on the force except for Mac because he is a bit on the autism spectrum. While his talent at noticing things was good, his inability to engage emotionally was not. No one spoke up for him when he was fired.
When the wife of an accused murderer hires Atticus to find exonerating evidence before his trial, it is a relief! He can pay bills. But he learns he will have to discredit the police investigation led by Mac. Wow. She is certain to think he is taking this case out of revenge. Plus, as his investigation progresses, so do the twists and turns. So many complications! Thank goodness for us readers, right? Right?
November 3, 2025
Diagnozė: psichopatinė asmenybė, pedofilija, autizmas.
Jau senokai buvau skaičiusi detektyvą, todėl buvau gerokai jų išsiilgusi. Ir taip džiaugiuosi, kad būtent šis papuolė į mano rankas ir akiratį! Puikus klasikinis detektyvas. Gera buvo vaikščioti Anglijos giriomis ir dalyvauti Karūnos teisme. Labai lengvai įsijaučiau į bylą ir teismo posėdžius.
Knygos veiksmas vyksta girioje, nuošaliame ūkyje, kuriame nužudomi keturi vienos šeimos nariai. Metus laiko byla tiriama, kol galiausiai su detektyvais, policininkais, teisėjais, prisiekusiaisiais, kaltinamuoju ir gynėjais atsiduriame teismo salėje. Čia pamažu ima ryškėti įvairūs žmogžudystės scenarijai. Nuo pusės knygos įtariau, kas yra žudikas, bet mane apgavo! Labai gerai susukta detektyvo pabaiga su keliais netikėtais tvistais ir gudrybėmis.
Knygos herojus, privatus detektyvas Atikas Prystas, mane visiškai suviliojo. Keistokas, be galo pastabus, beviltiškas buityje, bet rokeriškos išvaizdos anglų džentelmeno miksas. Jis puikiai tiko šiam kūriniui. O kur dar buvę santykiai su policijos viršininke ir nuolat iš paskos sekantis šuo. Intrigų čia tikrai netrūko. Tikiuosi, bus ir kitų Atiko Prysto bylų. Nes jaučiu, kad Anglija, niūroka nuotaika ir Atikas yra mano širdies detektyvai.
Gaila, kad tik taip greitai perskaičiau, praktiškai per tris - keturis prisėdimus. Nemoku taupyti, jeigu patinka nieko nelaukiu, neriu į knygą.
Rekomenduoju klasikinių detektyvų mėgėjams, prijaučiantiems anglų džentelmenams.
Ar skaitei šią knygą? Kokie tavo įspūdžiai?
Planuoji skaityti kitas dalis?
Jau senokai buvau skaičiusi detektyvą, todėl buvau gerokai jų išsiilgusi. Ir taip džiaugiuosi, kad būtent šis papuolė į mano rankas ir akiratį! Puikus klasikinis detektyvas. Gera buvo vaikščioti Anglijos giriomis ir dalyvauti Karūnos teisme. Labai lengvai įsijaučiau į bylą ir teismo posėdžius.
Knygos veiksmas vyksta girioje, nuošaliame ūkyje, kuriame nužudomi keturi vienos šeimos nariai. Metus laiko byla tiriama, kol galiausiai su detektyvais, policininkais, teisėjais, prisiekusiaisiais, kaltinamuoju ir gynėjais atsiduriame teismo salėje. Čia pamažu ima ryškėti įvairūs žmogžudystės scenarijai. Nuo pusės knygos įtariau, kas yra žudikas, bet mane apgavo! Labai gerai susukta detektyvo pabaiga su keliais netikėtais tvistais ir gudrybėmis.
Knygos herojus, privatus detektyvas Atikas Prystas, mane visiškai suviliojo. Keistokas, be galo pastabus, beviltiškas buityje, bet rokeriškos išvaizdos anglų džentelmeno miksas. Jis puikiai tiko šiam kūriniui. O kur dar buvę santykiai su policijos viršininke ir nuolat iš paskos sekantis šuo. Intrigų čia tikrai netrūko. Tikiuosi, bus ir kitų Atiko Prysto bylų. Nes jaučiu, kad Anglija, niūroka nuotaika ir Atikas yra mano širdies detektyvai.
Gaila, kad tik taip greitai perskaičiau, praktiškai per tris - keturis prisėdimus. Nemoku taupyti, jeigu patinka nieko nelaukiu, neriu į knygą.
Rekomenduoju klasikinių detektyvų mėgėjams, prijaučiantiems anglų džentelmenams.
Ar skaitei šią knygą? Kokie tavo įspūdžiai?
Planuoji skaityti kitas dalis?
November 4, 2025
4.5⭐
Keturios žmogžudystės. Du detektyvai. Ir vienos paslapties gaubiamas nusikaltimas.
Labai puikus detektyvas, kuris privers spėlioti, kas vis dėlto kaltas dėl vienos šeimos nužudymo, viskas dėliosis kaip dėlionė, viena dalis prie kitos, tikrai nesitikėjau tokios atomazgos, nes vaizduotė piešė visai kitą scenarijų.
O ir talentingas privatus detektyvas Atikas sulauks daug priešingos lyties atstovių simpatijų, tad belieka apsišarvuoti kantrybe ir laukti kitų jo tiriamų bylų,kurias ateityje būtinai norėsiu skaityti.
Keturios žmogžudystės. Du detektyvai. Ir vienos paslapties gaubiamas nusikaltimas.
Labai puikus detektyvas, kuris privers spėlioti, kas vis dėlto kaltas dėl vienos šeimos nužudymo, viskas dėliosis kaip dėlionė, viena dalis prie kitos, tikrai nesitikėjau tokios atomazgos, nes vaizduotė piešė visai kitą scenarijų.
O ir talentingas privatus detektyvas Atikas sulauks daug priešingos lyties atstovių simpatijų, tad belieka apsišarvuoti kantrybe ir laukti kitų jo tiriamų bylų,kurias ateityje būtinai norėsiu skaityti.
August 10, 2024
Absolute Überraschung des Jahres. Spannender Krimi-Thriller mit britischem Charme und sympathischen Charakteren. Nicht zu dick aufgetragen und genau die richtige Länge.
November 25, 2023
Gana tiesmukas detektyvas (be fashbackų ar kažkokių itin užsuktų posūkių), bet labai gaiviai susiklausė, plius patiko personažai ir jų santykiai.
Pagrindinis veikėjas yra privatus detektyvas, vardu Atticus, taigi nori nenori prisiminiau Atticus Pünd iš Anthony Horowitz knygų – kažkaip taip ir atrodė, tik be meta lygmens, lyg būtų istorija Horowitzo istorijoje. Šios knygos Atticus irgi arogantiškas, kartais užknisantis, demonstruojantis savo pranašumą holmsiškomis dedukcijomis, bet buvo įdomu sekti istoriją, patiko jo santykiai su detektyve Mack ir su šuniu Bandit.
Gal nieko verčiančio iš koto, bet "naujumo ir aktualumo" skiltyje šiam detektyvui dėčiau pliusą vien dėl to, kad nėra išsidirbinėjimų:) Penkios žvaigždės grynai dėl klausymo malonumo.
Pagrindinis veikėjas yra privatus detektyvas, vardu Atticus, taigi nori nenori prisiminiau Atticus Pünd iš Anthony Horowitz knygų – kažkaip taip ir atrodė, tik be meta lygmens, lyg būtų istorija Horowitzo istorijoje. Šios knygos Atticus irgi arogantiškas, kartais užknisantis, demonstruojantis savo pranašumą holmsiškomis dedukcijomis, bet buvo įdomu sekti istoriją, patiko jo santykiai su detektyve Mack ir su šuniu Bandit.
Gal nieko verčiančio iš koto, bet "naujumo ir aktualumo" skiltyje šiam detektyvui dėčiau pliusą vien dėl to, kad nėra išsidirbinėjimų:) Penkios žvaigždės grynai dėl klausymo malonumo.
April 11, 2021
1st of a new series. A hugely-dysfunctional family is slaughtered on Christmas Eve. One son Ralph shows up late, discovers it all, and calls 999. The press quickly dubs the case 'The Christmas Eve Massacre', Ralph becomes prime suspect, and his trial is set to begin soon. Ralph's wife is sure of his innocence, so hires private investigator and former DCI Atticus Priest to gather exculpatory evidence. DCI Mackenzie 'Mack' Jones is primary on the case and, as such, finds herself working against [former lover] Atticus.
4 stars
4 stars
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