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DI Tanner #5
Horsey Mere
A CHILLING NORFOLK BROADS CRIME THRILLER
The remains of a 17th Century witch, an MP found hanging above a five-pointed star, and three girls with powers they struggle to control.
As DI Tanner and DS Evans endeavour to make plans for their big day, the chance discovery of Norfolk's last known witch, tried and hanged by Norfolk’s infamous Witchfinder General, sparks a chain of the most horrific events, none of which Tanner seems able to stop.
The remains of a 17th Century witch, an MP found hanging above a five-pointed star, and three girls with powers they struggle to control.
As DI Tanner and DS Evans endeavour to make plans for their big day, the chance discovery of Norfolk's last known witch, tried and hanged by Norfolk’s infamous Witchfinder General, sparks a chain of the most horrific events, none of which Tanner seems able to stop.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2020
About the author
David Blake
41 books311 followersHaving sold over a million books around the world, and with number one bestsellers in both the UK and Australia, David is best known for writing fast-paced crime thrillers that are impossible to put down.
When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where most of his books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
https://www.david-blake.co.uk/contact...
When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where most of his books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
https://www.david-blake.co.uk/contact...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
March 29, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
‘I’d no idea you knew so much about witches.’ Jenny shrugged. ‘Well, I used to be one, you see,’ she continued, in a matter-of-fact tone of voice, ‘but there’s not much demand for them these days, so I joined the police instead.’
I learned a long time ago to never underestimate the lengths the rich and shameless would go for the acquisition of power. From what I can make out, they’re basically brought up to believe that it’s their God-given right to be in control. That’s why so many of them go into politics.
He’s going to disown you faster than a paranoid rat deserting a submarine with a hole in it.
My Review:
Where have I been that I had never read this crafty and wily scribe before? I immediately fell into his tragic and cringe-worthy tale of intrigue and oddly contrived and heinous murders. I was ensnared, caught up, and engaged on all thrusters. The storylines hit all the feels with emotive and evocative phrasing while also being rich with vibrant observations, clever snark, and wry and caustic humor. I adored these characters, as sarcasm happens to be my second language. The storylines were active, fast-paced, and kept the little pea in my brain whirling. I enjoyed it so much I’m diving right back in with the next book in the series as well as crossing my fingers while checking my jaundiced bank balance with the hope of amassing the previous four installments.
‘I’d no idea you knew so much about witches.’ Jenny shrugged. ‘Well, I used to be one, you see,’ she continued, in a matter-of-fact tone of voice, ‘but there’s not much demand for them these days, so I joined the police instead.’
I learned a long time ago to never underestimate the lengths the rich and shameless would go for the acquisition of power. From what I can make out, they’re basically brought up to believe that it’s their God-given right to be in control. That’s why so many of them go into politics.
He’s going to disown you faster than a paranoid rat deserting a submarine with a hole in it.
My Review:
Where have I been that I had never read this crafty and wily scribe before? I immediately fell into his tragic and cringe-worthy tale of intrigue and oddly contrived and heinous murders. I was ensnared, caught up, and engaged on all thrusters. The storylines hit all the feels with emotive and evocative phrasing while also being rich with vibrant observations, clever snark, and wry and caustic humor. I adored these characters, as sarcasm happens to be my second language. The storylines were active, fast-paced, and kept the little pea in my brain whirling. I enjoyed it so much I’m diving right back in with the next book in the series as well as crossing my fingers while checking my jaundiced bank balance with the hope of amassing the previous four installments.
August 14, 2020
So sad
I have read every one of David’s books and enjoyed getting to know the characters, their flaws and their stories. Great twists. I won’t spoil this book by giving anything away. If you’re new to this series- start with his first book and you will want to continue reading them all, as I have. Can’t wait for the next book.
I have read every one of David’s books and enjoyed getting to know the characters, their flaws and their stories. Great twists. I won’t spoil this book by giving anything away. If you’re new to this series- start with his first book and you will want to continue reading them all, as I have. Can’t wait for the next book.
August 9, 2020
This exciting story begins with a group of youngsters finding an old gravestone, reputedly that of a local witch. Then the deaths begin. The first is that of the MP for the area, who shares his surname, Hopkins, with that of the Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins. Rumours of ancient vengeance abound. It doesn’t stop there, of course, and further murders are discovered, all apparently linked. This is a fast and pacey story with lots of edge-of-the-seat stuff and some big shocks for long-time readers of the series. David Blake can really tell a story.
August 7, 2026
This installment of the DI Tanner series certainly contains some shocking twists. Many reviewers have commented on this so I'm just going to say this I think I see the authors reasoning. He didn't want the series to continue with just the same old thing book after book. He wanted to shake things up to keep readers on their toes and open up new possibilities for the series.
October 5, 2021
Judging by the quality and style of writing, I had assumed this was a debut novel, so surprised to find it was book five. Too over the top for me, unconvincing storyline and every kind of murder/death you can think of.
October 1, 2022
Horsey Mere is book 5 in the DI Tanner series by David Blake. DI and DS Evans were working on their wedding day after the death of a local MP, Patrick Hopkins. The death of Patrick Hopkins started a change of events that ended in a horrific event that will affect DI Tanner and DS Evans. The readers of Horsey Mere will continue to follow DI Tanner and DS Evans's investigation to discover what happens.
I agree that the DI Tanner series by David Blake deserves the title of Debut Crime Thriller Series of the Year. Whenever I read a book in this series, I forget about sleeping or eating until the end, and Horsey Mere kept up the tradition. I love David Blake's portrayal of his characters and how they interact with each other throughout this book. Horsey Mere was well written and researched by David Blake. I like David Blake's description of Horsey Mere settings, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Horsey Mere will learn about the consequences of hate, fear and revenge on the community. Also, the readers of Horsey Mere will learn about hyperkyphosis and the effects of the disease.
I recommend this book.
I agree that the DI Tanner series by David Blake deserves the title of Debut Crime Thriller Series of the Year. Whenever I read a book in this series, I forget about sleeping or eating until the end, and Horsey Mere kept up the tradition. I love David Blake's portrayal of his characters and how they interact with each other throughout this book. Horsey Mere was well written and researched by David Blake. I like David Blake's description of Horsey Mere settings, which allows me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Horsey Mere will learn about the consequences of hate, fear and revenge on the community. Also, the readers of Horsey Mere will learn about hyperkyphosis and the effects of the disease.
I recommend this book.
August 8, 2020
Wow!
What a shocker of an ending! Story is excellent, lots of conflicting stories, too many suspicious characters, confusion and conflict among police officers, and an excess of dead bodies! I have read mysteries for many decades and never encountered an ending as unexpected as this one!
What a shocker of an ending! Story is excellent, lots of conflicting stories, too many suspicious characters, confusion and conflict among police officers, and an excess of dead bodies! I have read mysteries for many decades and never encountered an ending as unexpected as this one!
September 17, 2020
I will say very little about this other than it was really good but I was devastated by the ending. I never saw it coming believing it to be a dream moment.
Talk about harsh yet certainly makes me want to read the next one the second it comes out to find out how this moves along. I hope we do not totally miss the very witty comments that we had got used to.
Talk about harsh yet certainly makes me want to read the next one the second it comes out to find out how this moves along. I hope we do not totally miss the very witty comments that we had got used to.
August 25, 2020
Great books
You really need to read the DI Tanner books in order. A fantastic gripping series
Just wish there were more of them
You really need to read the DI Tanner books in order. A fantastic gripping series
Just wish there were more of them
August 18, 2020
Another great one from David Blake's Insp Tanner series
I loved all of the story, some of it is really sad. But the case is solved by great detective work.
Can't wait for the next one, out in a few months time.
I loved all of the story, some of it is really sad. But the case is solved by great detective work.
Can't wait for the next one, out in a few months time.
September 9, 2020
I've been with this series from the beginning and, even though it showed no signs of flagging at all, the author has chosen this, only the fifth book, to really put the cat among the pigeons and do a brave thing to mix things up... and that's all I am saying here... apart from bravo and, controversial, and really looking forward to the next book more than ever!
So... it's all things spooky and witchy in this, the latest outing for Tanner and Evans as they are called to a rather bizarre crime scene. An MP is hanging above a five-pointed star. That's only the start of things as our twosome are swift to discover. A dead MP leads to a by-election and that brings its own problems, oh and suspects. But who could be responsible for the death... surely it has nothing to do with the earthly remains of a 17th Century witch recently uncovered...? Or is there a more simple explanation...
I love this series, I love the relationship between the characters, all the characters, not just the two leads. The stories are well plotted and executed with aplomb, oh and also with very little padding and waffle, save that necessary for series character development. The book goes along at a fair lick, often feeling like it is reading itself to you! If you get what I mean by that...
All in all, a cracking addition to an already favourite series, and as already mentioned, really hanging for book 6 now...
So... it's all things spooky and witchy in this, the latest outing for Tanner and Evans as they are called to a rather bizarre crime scene. An MP is hanging above a five-pointed star. That's only the start of things as our twosome are swift to discover. A dead MP leads to a by-election and that brings its own problems, oh and suspects. But who could be responsible for the death... surely it has nothing to do with the earthly remains of a 17th Century witch recently uncovered...? Or is there a more simple explanation...
I love this series, I love the relationship between the characters, all the characters, not just the two leads. The stories are well plotted and executed with aplomb, oh and also with very little padding and waffle, save that necessary for series character development. The book goes along at a fair lick, often feeling like it is reading itself to you! If you get what I mean by that...
All in all, a cracking addition to an already favourite series, and as already mentioned, really hanging for book 6 now...
December 18, 2020
I don't normally reveal spoilers for anything. To me, story is sacred. If someone's gone to the trouble of creating content, I would never dream of ruining that for someone who might enjoy it otherwise.
This is a bit different. If you don't want any spoilers, run away from this review. Run away now.
If you're still reading, just know that I have reasons for what I do. In Sherlock Holmes' story "The Adventure of the Final Problem," Arthur Conan Doyle decided he needed to kill Sherlock Holmes. A truly terrible decision, as it turns out. Even Doyle realized it years later and had the great detective return from the dead. But in Horsey Mere, David Blake decides he just had to kill someone. And kill them in a way that they won't be coming back. And so he's lost one of his most devoted fans. I understand that characters die. In the first novel in the Detective Tanner series, the other DI was killed. But you don't kill one of the two main characters in the series. You just don't. Or if you do, you lose me as a reader.
I suppose there are plenty of fans who will appreciate this plot twist and insist that it's a nod toward realism. Not that I believe for a second that someone at a small place like the Wroxham Police station would nearly get killed in every other book, especially considering how short of time has passed. So the claim that creating such a death in fiction makes it realistic is just plain bogus. Imagine a Lord of the Rings where Sam dies. Imagine the original Star Wars where Leia dies. Imagine Harry Potter where Hermione dies. If you think such needless deaths would have made for better novels, then Horsey Mere is definitely your kind of book.
Maybe David spent too much time binge watching Game of Thrones while writing this novel. Kill every character we like? Surely that's the best way to get on the bestseller list, right?
So I am done with this series. And I'm done with David Blake as an author. As an author myself, I know full well that it's the author's decision alone that ends up killing a beloved character. It's not necessary. It's just hubris. Too bad really. You should have killed her in a way that you could bring her back to life if you changed your mind.
This is a bit different. If you don't want any spoilers, run away from this review. Run away now.
If you're still reading, just know that I have reasons for what I do. In Sherlock Holmes' story "The Adventure of the Final Problem," Arthur Conan Doyle decided he needed to kill Sherlock Holmes. A truly terrible decision, as it turns out. Even Doyle realized it years later and had the great detective return from the dead. But in Horsey Mere, David Blake decides he just had to kill someone. And kill them in a way that they won't be coming back. And so he's lost one of his most devoted fans. I understand that characters die. In the first novel in the Detective Tanner series, the other DI was killed. But you don't kill one of the two main characters in the series. You just don't. Or if you do, you lose me as a reader.
I suppose there are plenty of fans who will appreciate this plot twist and insist that it's a nod toward realism. Not that I believe for a second that someone at a small place like the Wroxham Police station would nearly get killed in every other book, especially considering how short of time has passed. So the claim that creating such a death in fiction makes it realistic is just plain bogus. Imagine a Lord of the Rings where Sam dies. Imagine the original Star Wars where Leia dies. Imagine Harry Potter where Hermione dies. If you think such needless deaths would have made for better novels, then Horsey Mere is definitely your kind of book.
Maybe David spent too much time binge watching Game of Thrones while writing this novel. Kill every character we like? Surely that's the best way to get on the bestseller list, right?
So I am done with this series. And I'm done with David Blake as an author. As an author myself, I know full well that it's the author's decision alone that ends up killing a beloved character. It's not necessary. It's just hubris. Too bad really. You should have killed her in a way that you could bring her back to life if you changed your mind.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2021
This is the fifth in the series of DI Tanner books, set in Norfolk.
This book really is different to the others in the series and shows that the author is willing to try new things and I find that this can help series stay fresh and intriguing.
When a body of a witch is found it sparks off an interesting case for DI Tanner. The witch is the last to have been hung by the Witchfinder General. Obviously it makes the local news but not soon after a prominent person is found dead with a star underneath him.
Surely the discovery of the witch and this recent death can not be related? DI Tanner and DS Evans find themselves investigating a case like no other. The witch died in the 17th century, when people’s views and beliefs were very different. I like the characters in this series and how they relate to each other. There are lots of twists and turns throughout leading up to an incredible ending…….
This book really is different to the others in the series and shows that the author is willing to try new things and I find that this can help series stay fresh and intriguing.
When a body of a witch is found it sparks off an interesting case for DI Tanner. The witch is the last to have been hung by the Witchfinder General. Obviously it makes the local news but not soon after a prominent person is found dead with a star underneath him.
Surely the discovery of the witch and this recent death can not be related? DI Tanner and DS Evans find themselves investigating a case like no other. The witch died in the 17th century, when people’s views and beliefs were very different. I like the characters in this series and how they relate to each other. There are lots of twists and turns throughout leading up to an incredible ending…….
August 8, 2020
Loved the twists and turns.
Never have been to much into murder mysteries but my interest was piqued as the series was set in the broads where I grew up. Read the first book and was immediately booked so much so that I read all the first books one after another. Pre ordered horsey mere read it in one day. It did not disappoint me. It's great how the mix of old superstition and history combine with a modern police force. I enjoy reading g of the dark side of the Norfolk countryside and the broads it's not always sunny! Looking forward to the next instalment.
Never have been to much into murder mysteries but my interest was piqued as the series was set in the broads where I grew up. Read the first book and was immediately booked so much so that I read all the first books one after another. Pre ordered horsey mere read it in one day. It did not disappoint me. It's great how the mix of old superstition and history combine with a modern police force. I enjoy reading g of the dark side of the Norfolk countryside and the broads it's not always sunny! Looking forward to the next instalment.
December 3, 2020
A very good police thriller!
An amazing story, told at breakneck speed as the body count starts to rise. There were many unexpected twists and turns in the story, strange deaths relating to the discovery of a 17th century witch's grave and "bang to rights" suspects who were not as guilty as first thought. Young teenage girls engaged in "witchcraft", a "victim" who it turns out, is anything but. An uperclass wife turning to murder and a heroine killed in the line of duty. A lot was crammed into this book, some parts unbelievable but, it was an enjoyable read.
An amazing story, told at breakneck speed as the body count starts to rise. There were many unexpected twists and turns in the story, strange deaths relating to the discovery of a 17th century witch's grave and "bang to rights" suspects who were not as guilty as first thought. Young teenage girls engaged in "witchcraft", a "victim" who it turns out, is anything but. An uperclass wife turning to murder and a heroine killed in the line of duty. A lot was crammed into this book, some parts unbelievable but, it was an enjoyable read.
August 7, 2020
Excellent
Another excellent book in the John Tanner series. Without giving anything away the ending has a twist I didn’t see coming..but again the actual story was interesting and obviously well researched. Thoroughly recommended
Another excellent book in the John Tanner series. Without giving anything away the ending has a twist I didn’t see coming..but again the actual story was interesting and obviously well researched. Thoroughly recommended
August 20, 2020
The unstoppable DI Tanner returns
Keeping you guessing till the end as to the culprit of the grisly murder, only to discover a tragic sequence of events and some hard facts for John Tanner to deal with. Can't wait for the next book to see how he fairs!
Keeping you guessing till the end as to the culprit of the grisly murder, only to discover a tragic sequence of events and some hard facts for John Tanner to deal with. Can't wait for the next book to see how he fairs!
August 26, 2020
Fantastic book outstanding ,brilliantly wrote ,enjoyed every book in this series can't wait till the next one recommended to be read read
Fantastic book outstanding,and enjoyed the series can't wait till the next one,highly recommend to be read by everyone,brilliantly wrote .
Fantastic book outstanding,and enjoyed the series can't wait till the next one,highly recommend to be read by everyone,brilliantly wrote .
September 3, 2020
Exhilaratinig
Could not put it down! Read it in one go.lots of twists, that were not expected. Love to read about the places I have visited on holidays! Thank you. Look forward to the next one.
Could not put it down! Read it in one go.lots of twists, that were not expected. Love to read about the places I have visited on holidays! Thank you. Look forward to the next one.
September 9, 2020
Brings your feelings out
This book made me mad, made me cry, made me hate some of the characters and love others. It takes admin good book to bring your emotions to the forefront. Excellent book. I will be reading more of his books. Bravo Mr. Blake, bravo.
This book made me mad, made me cry, made me hate some of the characters and love others. It takes admin good book to bring your emotions to the forefront. Excellent book. I will be reading more of his books. Bravo Mr. Blake, bravo.
September 16, 2020
Absolutely loved all 5 books but cried my eyes out at the last one when Jenny died I just didn’t expect that. I’m glad Tanner is coming back though. Can you please make him happy finding another love as he’s lost so much and I feel sorry for him. Love all your books xxxx
December 2, 2020
A fantastic series.
I have not been able to put down this series, so well written.
The characters and their relationship s are such a major part of each book.
Each story will have you completely hooked.
Can't wait for the next edition.
I have not been able to put down this series, so well written.
The characters and their relationship s are such a major part of each book.
Each story will have you completely hooked.
Can't wait for the next edition.
August 9, 2020
Terrific read.
Read from beginning to end with no stopping. Could not put it down. Fast paced and exciting. More just like it please.
Read from beginning to end with no stopping. Could not put it down. Fast paced and exciting. More just like it please.
August 10, 2020
Brilliant
I would give this book ten stars if I could. Exiting in places sad and full of action. David Blake just gets better.
I would give this book ten stars if I could. Exiting in places sad and full of action. David Blake just gets better.
August 17, 2020
Great read once again from David Blake featuring DI Tanner and DS Evans. I really enjoy the characters, the plot, and the setting. Engrossing series. Cheers Lynda L. Lock (Isla Mujeres Mysteries)
August 18, 2020
Simply a brilliant read, great characters with some unexpected twists which kept me riveted right up to the end.
August 24, 2020
What ever happened to happy policemen ?
It's obvious to me that they never become detectives. Check out any tv series, they are all very sad sods.
It's obvious to me that they never become detectives. Check out any tv series, they are all very sad sods.
August 28, 2020
Left me reeling
Ok so this was an amazing read but omg the story is heartwrenching. I can't say more for fear of spoiling your experience with this book.
Ok so this was an amazing read but omg the story is heartwrenching. I can't say more for fear of spoiling your experience with this book.
September 10, 2020
Brilliant
Read all 5 in 3 weeks - Excellent story and characters - Next one please David !! !! !! !!
Read all 5 in 3 weeks - Excellent story and characters - Next one please David !! !! !! !!
November 28, 2020
Really enjoyed this book bit of an emotional one love the characters and story line and the discriptions of the areas
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews