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DI Erica Swift #3
The Artisan
He considers himself an artist…
His medium is murder.
Someone is killing young women, strangling them in their beds, and arranging their bodies in a certain way after death.
The police have no witnesses and the killer has left no clues. When a second victim is discovered, DI Erica Swift finds herself on the hunt for another serial killer...
Lara Maher is living with a man who controls her every move. He treats her like a precious possession, and their shared past ties her to him. But now something has changed, and his increasingly volatile moods terrify her…
As the rate of the murders increases, Erica needs to work fast to prevent him from killing again.
One thing she does know is that he likes young, professional, blonde women.
Women just like Erica….
Will she risk her own life to stop him when she’s already lost so much, or is there another woman out there who can help?
His medium is murder.
Someone is killing young women, strangling them in their beds, and arranging their bodies in a certain way after death.
The police have no witnesses and the killer has left no clues. When a second victim is discovered, DI Erica Swift finds herself on the hunt for another serial killer...
Lara Maher is living with a man who controls her every move. He treats her like a precious possession, and their shared past ties her to him. But now something has changed, and his increasingly volatile moods terrify her…
As the rate of the murders increases, Erica needs to work fast to prevent him from killing again.
One thing she does know is that he likes young, professional, blonde women.
Women just like Erica….
Will she risk her own life to stop him when she’s already lost so much, or is there another woman out there who can help?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2020
535 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
M.K. Farrar
40 books146 followersM K Farrar had penned more than ten novels of psychological noir and crime fiction. A British author, she lives in the countryside with her three children and a menagerie of rescue pets. When she’s not writing—which isn’t often—she balances out all the murder with baking and binge-watching shows on Netflix.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 16, 2021
The third book in the DI Erica Swift series. Young women, living alone are being murdered, left posed naked, and no apparent connection and no other clues left. Another puzzling case for her team, with their great rapport and the banter which lightens the work they are involved in.
I love this author’s style, mixing the characters’ work and personal lives as it gives more depth to the story. Books 1 and 2 were easy 5 stars, would of awarded 6 if it was possible, but this one for me lacked something, not sure what and could of just been me. So I am awarding 4.25 rounded down to 4. I am sure it is a blip (still a good book). I have books 4 and 5 already and look forward to reading them.
I love this author’s style, mixing the characters’ work and personal lives as it gives more depth to the story. Books 1 and 2 were easy 5 stars, would of awarded 6 if it was possible, but this one for me lacked something, not sure what and could of just been me. So I am awarding 4.25 rounded down to 4. I am sure it is a blip (still a good book). I have books 4 and 5 already and look forward to reading them.
August 24, 2020
Someone Is Murdering Women...This is a tricky, fascinating case that has DI Erica Swift putting herself on the line to Try to attract the Killer...Her family life is tough, as her daughter, Poppy, needs her more since the tragic loss of her father, Erica's husband, last year, while her dear Dad suddenly becomes confused and irritable at his care home, starting the need to send him to the hospital to find out just What is going on! ...Meanwhile,at work,there is someone breaking into homes in the middle of the night..Killing the women, who live alone, arranging them to his liking...and leaving Nothing..Not one piece of evidence is located..And No One Sees Him!! Just a regular day in the office,Huh?!
How does the person know they live alone...He obviously stalks his prey, as the method of entry to the homes is exact and pre-meditated...Erica receives help from a detective in another division..But they still have Nothing...Then she comes up with a plan..One that puts Her in the eyes of the killer..Will she lose everything thing she has...As someone comes at her from behind...
Whew...A smashing story that takes You through every emotion....
How does the person know they live alone...He obviously stalks his prey, as the method of entry to the homes is exact and pre-meditated...Erica receives help from a detective in another division..But they still have Nothing...Then she comes up with a plan..One that puts Her in the eyes of the killer..Will she lose everything thing she has...As someone comes at her from behind...
Whew...A smashing story that takes You through every emotion....
January 17, 2022
4 Solid Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I have been on a Mystery/Thriller kick of late. It is like a deep cleansing breath from romance, hahahahaha. Anyway, I found this for Free and this really was a solid read for me.
I did I know who was the killer early on, yes...But it didn't matter because of the way the story was written. I will more than likely read more of this series because I enjoyed this new-author-to-me work.
Couldn't resist a free chance to try a Mystery/Thriller!
The Artisan (DI Erica Swift #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I have been on a Mystery/Thriller kick of late. It is like a deep cleansing breath from romance, hahahahaha. Anyway, I found this for Free and this really was a solid read for me.
I did I know who was the killer early on, yes...But it didn't matter because of the way the story was written. I will more than likely read more of this series because I enjoyed this new-author-to-me work.
Couldn't resist a free chance to try a Mystery/Thriller!
The Artisan (DI Erica Swift #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 30, 2022
Author M.K. Farrar and DI Erica Swift have not lost their mojo.
"The Artisan" is the third book in M.K. Farrar's DI Erica Swift series and it's a winner.
In "The Artisan", a serial killer is murdering young women and meticulously arranging their bodies after death.
The police have no witnesses and the killer has left no clues.
I have read all three books in this ultra-compelling series and each book is well-written, engaging, and unputdownable.
What sets this series apart from others in its genre is the author's strong characterizations and intriguing and thought-provoking police procedurals.
DI Erica Swift's ingenious approach to solving crimes never ceases to impress me.
Although all books in this series are standalone thrillers, starting with Book #1, "The Eye Thief", is strongly recommended.
I listened to the audiobook and narrator Emma Gregory did a superb job with the narration.
4.5 stars.
"The Artisan" is the third book in M.K. Farrar's DI Erica Swift series and it's a winner.
In "The Artisan", a serial killer is murdering young women and meticulously arranging their bodies after death.
The police have no witnesses and the killer has left no clues.
I have read all three books in this ultra-compelling series and each book is well-written, engaging, and unputdownable.
What sets this series apart from others in its genre is the author's strong characterizations and intriguing and thought-provoking police procedurals.
DI Erica Swift's ingenious approach to solving crimes never ceases to impress me.
Although all books in this series are standalone thrillers, starting with Book #1, "The Eye Thief", is strongly recommended.
I listened to the audiobook and narrator Emma Gregory did a superb job with the narration.
4.5 stars.
September 11, 2020
What a superb addition to the Erica Swift thriller series.
A real page-turner from the very first page. Erica and her team are tasked with finding a serial killer on their patch with a penchant for young women. Excellent characterisation as usual with Marissa’s books and the ending... well, you’ll have to read it yourself to find out why the ending took my breath away.
Highly recommended.
A real page-turner from the very first page. Erica and her team are tasked with finding a serial killer on their patch with a penchant for young women. Excellent characterisation as usual with Marissa’s books and the ending... well, you’ll have to read it yourself to find out why the ending took my breath away.
Highly recommended.
December 28, 2021
The story starts off quite creepily with a woman waking up in her home to find an intruder there. If anything this particular case that Erica is working on will have you triple checking your windows and doors and wondering what household item would work best as a weapon if needed to defend yourself. Think I will be sleeping with one eye open after reading this book!
Erica is doing her best to juggle work and her home life and not always getting it right. The type of job she has is demanding as well as it sometimes puts her in dangerous situations. Throughout this series so far it has never failed to have my heart in my mouth wondering whether Erica has bitten off more than she can chew.
There are some nice little twists and turns in the story so that as a reader, you will never get complacent as the author will have you well and truly on your toes with never quite knowing what is in store, not only for the characters but for the readers themselves.
The Artisan whilst mainly can be read as a standalone, does work best when read in order as there are references to previous events. Things are certainly not as straight cut as they first appear which will have the reader wholly engrossed. Along with the twists and turns, the pacing adds to the tension which makes this a gripping crime thriller and a series that’s not be missed!
Erica is doing her best to juggle work and her home life and not always getting it right. The type of job she has is demanding as well as it sometimes puts her in dangerous situations. Throughout this series so far it has never failed to have my heart in my mouth wondering whether Erica has bitten off more than she can chew.
There are some nice little twists and turns in the story so that as a reader, you will never get complacent as the author will have you well and truly on your toes with never quite knowing what is in store, not only for the characters but for the readers themselves.
The Artisan whilst mainly can be read as a standalone, does work best when read in order as there are references to previous events. Things are certainly not as straight cut as they first appear which will have the reader wholly engrossed. Along with the twists and turns, the pacing adds to the tension which makes this a gripping crime thriller and a series that’s not be missed!
September 15, 2020
What a brilliant read this turned out to be, but I’m not surprised considering who the author is.
DI Erica Swift once again has her hands full trying to solve this case, not easy when a serial killer is roaming the streets. As she tries to juggle her home life since her husband’s death , and see to her ailing father her working day in solving crimes seems never ending. But like a dog with a bone, she is determined to catch the murderer. This is a fabulous book with lots of nail biting moments.
DI Erica Swift once again has her hands full trying to solve this case, not easy when a serial killer is roaming the streets. As she tries to juggle her home life since her husband’s death , and see to her ailing father her working day in solving crimes seems never ending. But like a dog with a bone, she is determined to catch the murderer. This is a fabulous book with lots of nail biting moments.
July 1, 2022
Ridiculous
A serial killer views murder as art. DI Erica Swift is flummoxed and decides to become bait.
This was an okay tale. The killer is interesting and his relationship with a woman named Lara is appropriately creepy. I was okay with the plot until Erica becomes bait. Not only has she been traumatized by the death of her husband she is high profile. Just silly and unbelievable. Like she is the only blonde on the force. Ending is okay if you can get over the dopey plot twist.
A serial killer views murder as art. DI Erica Swift is flummoxed and decides to become bait.
This was an okay tale. The killer is interesting and his relationship with a woman named Lara is appropriately creepy. I was okay with the plot until Erica becomes bait. Not only has she been traumatized by the death of her husband she is high profile. Just silly and unbelievable. Like she is the only blonde on the force. Ending is okay if you can get over the dopey plot twist.
September 5, 2022
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Emma Gregory
This is the third book in the D I Erica Swift series and as with the other two this case is just as fascinating.
A disturbing serial killer with an artistic flair once again has Erica torn between her job and her family.
Some great twists and unexpected revelations are revealed as this story unfolds and the tension as it reaches its climax will keep you gripped in its clutches till the very end.
Once again the narrator was fantastic in her delivery and character portrayal.
Narrator: Emma Gregory
This is the third book in the D I Erica Swift series and as with the other two this case is just as fascinating.
A disturbing serial killer with an artistic flair once again has Erica torn between her job and her family.
Some great twists and unexpected revelations are revealed as this story unfolds and the tension as it reaches its climax will keep you gripped in its clutches till the very end.
Once again the narrator was fantastic in her delivery and character portrayal.
August 25, 2020
This is the third book in this series in which DI Erica Swift is the lead detective. I love this author’s style of mixing the characters’ work and personal lives as it gives more depth. The rapport of the investigating team and the banter lightens the work they are involved in.
Young women are being murdered and there is an extremely odd pattern to these killings but no clues to follow. This story drew me in and I could not put it down.
Young women are being murdered and there is an extremely odd pattern to these killings but no clues to follow. This story drew me in and I could not put it down.
November 12, 2021
It's a good thing its a day off!
I started reading this book, and never put it down for more than 5 minutes at a time. I was so totally engrossed in the plot, storyline and all the twists you could have
Thrown something at me, and I wouldn't have noticed. The characters are developing well too, and becoming like old friends. I will be reading about DI Erica Swift and her team until the author stops writing about her!!
I started reading this book, and never put it down for more than 5 minutes at a time. I was so totally engrossed in the plot, storyline and all the twists you could have
Thrown something at me, and I wouldn't have noticed. The characters are developing well too, and becoming like old friends. I will be reading about DI Erica Swift and her team until the author stops writing about her!!
December 26, 2021
Women were being found dead, They were posed in ways that looked they were posing for a photo shoot. I think they gave it away to soon in the book who the murder was. Anyone could figure it out. The murderer was different than most in how he killed them and why, but I found out that what seemed strange was the women were not sexual molested in any of the murders. A totally different reason than usual for these murders.
October 30, 2023
This isn't a who-done-it as we are following the murderer from the start along side the investigation by Erica and the team. We watch and wait for the mistake that will lead to his inevitable arrest. Although the formulaic plot holds no surprises, it is the characters and their relationships that make this series a pleasure to read. I always look forward to the next book to see how Erica's home and work life will pan out. An enjoyable easy read that doesn't require any concentration.
August 1, 2021
This is the third book in the DI Erica Swift series that I've read (in order). MK Farrar writes in an easy to follow thread of events, that captures you interest quickly, and keeps that interest throughout the book, to figure who did it. I can't seem to put these thrillers down, and have stayed up fairly late reading them. I have purchased all 6 in the series and have pre-ordered number 7.
September 19, 2021
Getting the rhythm
Now am ready for book four in the series. The first was difficult due to the nature of the crimes and the needless deaths. But it established the tone and the chronology so I am adapting to the authors style. Still believe there is too much violence and death but am ready for another.
Now am ready for book four in the series. The first was difficult due to the nature of the crimes and the needless deaths. But it established the tone and the chronology so I am adapting to the authors style. Still believe there is too much violence and death but am ready for another.
December 22, 2021
Okay
This is an okay read but it is obvious who the murderer is from the start. There's a small twist but it has nothing to do with solving the murder and there aren't any leads just instinct. There was also a continuity error. Also too much swearing. There was also a phrase used that sounded more American, realistically British people don't use it.
This is an okay read but it is obvious who the murderer is from the start. There's a small twist but it has nothing to do with solving the murder and there aren't any leads just instinct. There was also a continuity error. Also too much swearing. There was also a phrase used that sounded more American, realistically British people don't use it.
May 11, 2022
Proofread this audio recording and loved it, real suspense in the writing and great delivery by the narrator, including different accents and voices for various characters.
This is book 3 of a series but I didn’t feel I missed much for having jumped in at number 3, though I would now like to catch up on the others.
This is book 3 of a series but I didn’t feel I missed much for having jumped in at number 3, though I would now like to catch up on the others.
November 22, 2022
Not a bad book at all! A very interesting storyline that kept me hooked. My biggest critique is probably that we almost always know who the killer is we just watch the story from two different perspectives that eventually meet up together. 3.5 stars rounded down to 3. I will read the next book in the series.
May 23, 2023
Another cracker
This is another cracking read from M K Farrar not much of a mystery but a tense suspenseful crime story none the less the characters are great and the plot is fantastic and it's brilliantly written that keeps you hooked right to the last page I can't wait to read book 4
This is another cracking read from M K Farrar not much of a mystery but a tense suspenseful crime story none the less the characters are great and the plot is fantastic and it's brilliantly written that keeps you hooked right to the last page I can't wait to read book 4
August 27, 2020
Book Review: The Artisan (DI Erica Swift #3)
Author: M.K. Farrar
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by: Tammy - Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
Another amazingly good mystery to solve in book 3 of the DI Erica Swift Series and wow it's a good one I didn't see it coming until the last 2 chapters.
Erica knows she shouldn't keep putting herself in danger, she has a daughter Poppy who needs her, and her father is getting no better but she must find the culprit and this one has her doing things she never thought she would.
How is this killer eluding them? He hasn't left a single clue until...
All of these stories are stand-alone but I highly recommend getting them if you love a good thrilling mystery.
**I read this book via Kindle Unlimited and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
M.K. Farrar
Author: M.K. Farrar
My Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by: Tammy - Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
Another amazingly good mystery to solve in book 3 of the DI Erica Swift Series and wow it's a good one I didn't see it coming until the last 2 chapters.
Erica knows she shouldn't keep putting herself in danger, she has a daughter Poppy who needs her, and her father is getting no better but she must find the culprit and this one has her doing things she never thought she would.
How is this killer eluding them? He hasn't left a single clue until...
All of these stories are stand-alone but I highly recommend getting them if you love a good thrilling mystery.
**I read this book via Kindle Unlimited and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
M.K. Farrar
August 29, 2020
The artisan by Marissa Farrar.
This is book 3 in the DI Erica Swift series.
Another brilliant read from marissa. I love this series. I had a feeling it was who it was. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*. Highly recommended.
This is book 3 in the DI Erica Swift series.
Another brilliant read from marissa. I love this series. I had a feeling it was who it was. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*. Highly recommended.
December 17, 2021
Swearing, blasphemy
Need I really say more than the heading to this review. Read a bit of the book and it was going well until I came across the horrid language. I don’t need or want to read anything with ‘that’ in it.
Need I really say more than the heading to this review. Read a bit of the book and it was going well until I came across the horrid language. I don’t need or want to read anything with ‘that’ in it.
January 23, 2022
D.I. Erica Swift and her team investigate when the body of a female is discovered, posed on her bed. But this will not be the last one. Unfortunately it becomes obvious who the killer is and I didn't really take to the character of Swift.
Overall an entertaining story.
Overall an entertaining story.
April 28, 2022
Interesting characters wrapped in a tired storyline
The author developed the characters well and that is where it ends. The storyline could have been an old television script and the conclusion too easily reached. It would have made a reasonably good tale in an old dime novel.
The author developed the characters well and that is where it ends. The storyline could have been an old television script and the conclusion too easily reached. It would have made a reasonably good tale in an old dime novel.
June 18, 2023
This was another good British crime thriller where Erica has to find a ruthless murderer.
It's obvious early on who is the killer, though there are twists and turns. I liked the personal aspects of the story that help to develop the characters.
Worth reading.
It's obvious early on who is the killer, though there are twists and turns. I liked the personal aspects of the story that help to develop the characters.
Worth reading.
June 27, 2023
a good read
I enjoyed this book. I thought it might not be as good as the first two, but it was every bit as good. A story with pace, suspense, and another case cracked by DI Erica Swift
I enjoyed this book. I thought it might not be as good as the first two, but it was every bit as good. A story with pace, suspense, and another case cracked by DI Erica Swift
July 2, 2023
Erica is certainly pushed to the limit as she and her team hunt down the person strangling young women in their beds in the early hours of the morning. She is hoping luck will go their way. A very tense read that gets you in its grip and drags you along with it.
April 9, 2025
I’m absolutely loving this series. They don’t seem to be getting predictable like other detective series I’ve read. Each plot is unique with the background character development plots running in parallel across the series. Really well written.
September 5, 2025
Awesome
Loved It so much. I loved the story line and the characters. The back story is good too. Just the right amount, too much and it becomes a soap opera , not enough and it's boring
Loved It so much. I loved the story line and the characters. The back story is good too. Just the right amount, too much and it becomes a soap opera , not enough and it's boring
January 6, 2021
My favourite in the series so far. This author has written a great series and the first three books read in 2 weeks. Can’t wait to read the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews