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D.I. Graves #3
The Devils Mark
Bloody remains. Multiple victims. Ritual sacrifice?
When a blood-stained effigy of body parts is found in a central London park, D.I Daniel Graves must set about trying to discover what it could mean and find the person responsible. Symbols at the crime scene suggest the occult. Who would leave a murder victim in such a way, and why?
As Graves and partner DI Charlie Palmer begin to investigate the ritual and the act of human sacrifice, they enlist the help of Charlotte Gooding, a talented professor specialising in the subject. They hope to narrow down on a motive. Could the killer believe in the supernatural? Witchcraft even?
Then the next crime scene is found. More blood, more symbols, and out in the open. It seems the killer wants the world to pay attention, but why? How are they choosing their victims?
The pressure is on for Graves to put an end to the murders before more remains show up in brutal tableaus. One thing is for sure, this killer is out for blood and is not afraid to make it a very public display.
There's just one problem. Grave's past is still not behind him. Someone is eager to make sure he doesn't forget, cannot move on. And they're not playing games anymore. There may be an occult killer out there, but now there's another out for blood, Daniel Grave's blood.
When a blood-stained effigy of body parts is found in a central London park, D.I Daniel Graves must set about trying to discover what it could mean and find the person responsible. Symbols at the crime scene suggest the occult. Who would leave a murder victim in such a way, and why?
As Graves and partner DI Charlie Palmer begin to investigate the ritual and the act of human sacrifice, they enlist the help of Charlotte Gooding, a talented professor specialising in the subject. They hope to narrow down on a motive. Could the killer believe in the supernatural? Witchcraft even?
Then the next crime scene is found. More blood, more symbols, and out in the open. It seems the killer wants the world to pay attention, but why? How are they choosing their victims?
The pressure is on for Graves to put an end to the murders before more remains show up in brutal tableaus. One thing is for sure, this killer is out for blood and is not afraid to make it a very public display.
There's just one problem. Grave's past is still not behind him. Someone is eager to make sure he doesn't forget, cannot move on. And they're not playing games anymore. There may be an occult killer out there, but now there's another out for blood, Daniel Grave's blood.
186 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2021
11 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 27, 2021
Well, Graves is back this time and it is another bender of a story. We all know by now with this series that the murders are never straight forward, there is always the dash of the supernatural. It is no different in this tale, however, this outing is far more brutal than it has been before but things are never as they seem. For once I wasn’t spooked when reading about Graves, I was instead fascinated to see what the frick was going on. Graves, Palmer both lead the forefront with the narrative, yet we have another loud voice, and well we always know things do not bode well when we have an additional one!
This is a short and snappy story but it is intense. I was flummoxed because I really had no one to suspect for a change, but then nor did Graves. I really was scratching my head, how could someone be arranging these bodies around London and not be seen! Just when we thought things were quietening down, enter side stage another element to mix it all up, the side plot. This one is continuing from the previous books and it is a climactic showdown, just as we have been expecting.
In The Devil’s Mark, the deaths and set up of said bodies are brutal, I mean some of it did make for grim reading. The ideas of the said murderer are not ones I would openly dismiss. I mean when you learn of the backstory, you can see how some people twisted the fact to work in their favour, don’t you just hate people like that! But it was an interesting theory throughout, one right out of American Horror Story so to speak!
I loved seeing Palmer back in the throes right by Graves side. Amelia was in the thick of it this time and probably not in the way she wants to be, plus a whole host of characters new and old. I really do feel like this is an end, thinking back to the book, now I am panicking! I do hope that this is not the last that we see of Graves!! Jackson-Smart has a whole team of people that we care and fret about, and although I know they will mostly be ok, I still want to hear from them now again. You know just to check in and say hi!
This is a short and snappy story but it is intense. I was flummoxed because I really had no one to suspect for a change, but then nor did Graves. I really was scratching my head, how could someone be arranging these bodies around London and not be seen! Just when we thought things were quietening down, enter side stage another element to mix it all up, the side plot. This one is continuing from the previous books and it is a climactic showdown, just as we have been expecting.
In The Devil’s Mark, the deaths and set up of said bodies are brutal, I mean some of it did make for grim reading. The ideas of the said murderer are not ones I would openly dismiss. I mean when you learn of the backstory, you can see how some people twisted the fact to work in their favour, don’t you just hate people like that! But it was an interesting theory throughout, one right out of American Horror Story so to speak!
I loved seeing Palmer back in the throes right by Graves side. Amelia was in the thick of it this time and probably not in the way she wants to be, plus a whole host of characters new and old. I really do feel like this is an end, thinking back to the book, now I am panicking! I do hope that this is not the last that we see of Graves!! Jackson-Smart has a whole team of people that we care and fret about, and although I know they will mostly be ok, I still want to hear from them now again. You know just to check in and say hi!
October 3, 2022
DI Daniel Graves & DI Charlie Palmer return in the third book in the series. This one begins with an early morning jogger finding body parts at a local park. The parts seem to be arranged in some kind of ritualistic manner, & when a second lot of body parts, belonging to a second victim, are found at a different scene, Graves worries that there is a serial killer around. Most puzzling is that the sole piece of physical evidence they have found so far, one hair, seems to point to a female killer, which is certainly unusual as most serials tend to be male.
Graves consults an academic, Molly, to help him make sense of the occult aspects of the scenes & is surprised to find himself attracted to her & it seems to be mutual. Meanwhile Palmer's on/off girlfriend, journalist Kelly Malone, is currently persona non grata with both the paper & the police & is itching to get back to following crime stories. The police chapters are interspersed with chapters from the point of view of a young woman, Sarah, who has just started her own business & is looking to expand. She is contacted by a group over the internet who claim to be a networking & empowerment group for women who run workshops, & she is intrigued enough to see just what's on offer.
Like the previous books this is a fast-paced read & the subject is rather dark & the deaths brutal. There's also a hint of the occult about the murders but I was expecting something more considering the first book of the series. In fact, I found this one a little less riveting than the previous books, & that's possibly because there was quite a lot of focus on the main characters' love-lives & I'm never a big fan of that. I prefer it when relationships stay in the background in crime thrillers but that's a personal preference. The main characters are are likeable as ever & I can see this partnership continuing over more books. Overall I rate this a solid 3 star read.
My thanks to the author & publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Graves consults an academic, Molly, to help him make sense of the occult aspects of the scenes & is surprised to find himself attracted to her & it seems to be mutual. Meanwhile Palmer's on/off girlfriend, journalist Kelly Malone, is currently persona non grata with both the paper & the police & is itching to get back to following crime stories. The police chapters are interspersed with chapters from the point of view of a young woman, Sarah, who has just started her own business & is looking to expand. She is contacted by a group over the internet who claim to be a networking & empowerment group for women who run workshops, & she is intrigued enough to see just what's on offer.
Like the previous books this is a fast-paced read & the subject is rather dark & the deaths brutal. There's also a hint of the occult about the murders but I was expecting something more considering the first book of the series. In fact, I found this one a little less riveting than the previous books, & that's possibly because there was quite a lot of focus on the main characters' love-lives & I'm never a big fan of that. I prefer it when relationships stay in the background in crime thrillers but that's a personal preference. The main characters are are likeable as ever & I can see this partnership continuing over more books. Overall I rate this a solid 3 star read.
My thanks to the author & publishers, Bloodhound Books, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
March 14, 2021
The Devil’s Mark by WD Jackson-Smart is the third book in the series, but the first book I’ve read in this series and by this author. This van be read as a standalone, though it seems to be a continuation. I liked it so much though, I’ll have to go back and read the other books to see what I missed.
What is interesting about this book is that it isn’t a straight forward murder and there is a bit of supernatural mixed in. It is quite brutal, however, I was glued to the page and absolute fascinated.
The Devil’s Mark was short, but intense. I was never able to guess exactly what was going on. As I stated, it was quite a brutal read, which definitely made it a heavier read, but still, I enjoyed it.
This was great. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to checking more of this series out.
*I received a free copy of this book from Damppebbles Blog Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
What is interesting about this book is that it isn’t a straight forward murder and there is a bit of supernatural mixed in. It is quite brutal, however, I was glued to the page and absolute fascinated.
The Devil’s Mark was short, but intense. I was never able to guess exactly what was going on. As I stated, it was quite a brutal read, which definitely made it a heavier read, but still, I enjoyed it.
This was great. I enjoyed this novel and look forward to checking more of this series out.
*I received a free copy of this book from Damppebbles Blog Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
September 28, 2022
This was the third book in a series but my first one to read. The book does stand-alone as a one off read but I would recommend starting at number 1.
DI Graves and partner, DI Palmer investigate a murder when body parts are found in a London park. The story goes on for there and can be very dark in places and brutal but kept me on my toes in a fast paced quick read book. There is a supernatural occult like thread through the story which isn’t really my usual kind of read but I enjoyed it
And would read others from the series if I was short on material to go to
DI Graves and partner, DI Palmer investigate a murder when body parts are found in a London park. The story goes on for there and can be very dark in places and brutal but kept me on my toes in a fast paced quick read book. There is a supernatural occult like thread through the story which isn’t really my usual kind of read but I enjoyed it
And would read others from the series if I was short on material to go to
March 6, 2021
The Devil’s Mark is #3 in the DI Graves series, it can also be read as a stand-alone.
Here DI Graves and his partner, DI Palmer are investigating a murder after body parts are found in a London park. As they try to identify the victim more body parts are found and it looks like a serial killer is at work.
There seems to be a ritualistic part to the killings and so enlist Professor Gooding to help. What links the victims? What is the meaning of the symbols left at the scenes?
This is fast paced, dark and violent as the crime scenes are horrific and with the occult edge giving some creepy moments. The relationship between Graves and Palmer is clever and they work well together and make a great team as they delve deeper they have each other’s backs…..they’ll need it!
A dark and clever plot, with great characters make this a truly gripping tale that will have you hooked from the very start.
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to be part of this blog tour, for the promotional material and an eARC of The Devil’s Mark.
Here DI Graves and his partner, DI Palmer are investigating a murder after body parts are found in a London park. As they try to identify the victim more body parts are found and it looks like a serial killer is at work.
There seems to be a ritualistic part to the killings and so enlist Professor Gooding to help. What links the victims? What is the meaning of the symbols left at the scenes?
This is fast paced, dark and violent as the crime scenes are horrific and with the occult edge giving some creepy moments. The relationship between Graves and Palmer is clever and they work well together and make a great team as they delve deeper they have each other’s backs…..they’ll need it!
A dark and clever plot, with great characters make this a truly gripping tale that will have you hooked from the very start.
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to be part of this blog tour, for the promotional material and an eARC of The Devil’s Mark.
October 3, 2022
A non stop kicking book.
The 2 lead characters were solid and a tag team of good chat, the other characters fit round them great.
I’m definitely reading the others before this.
Yes it’s book 3 but can be read as a stand alone as it’s packed with good info.
Enjoy it.
The 2 lead characters were solid and a tag team of good chat, the other characters fit round them great.
I’m definitely reading the others before this.
Yes it’s book 3 but can be read as a stand alone as it’s packed with good info.
Enjoy it.
March 9, 2021
D.I Graves is back with another dark and sinister case! Men are being murdered and their body parts left in strange ritualistic and symbolic manners around London and the clues are leading down an unbelievable and potentially supernatural path. Can D.I Graves and his team solve the crime before the victims start to pile up?
I love how the D.I Graves series always have a spiritual/supernatural element to them that always seems plausible. I have no beliefs at all in other worldly things however Jackson-Smart still manages to set my goosebumps off and put chills through my spine with his clever storytelling and I really think this series would make an excellent TV series.
The Devil’s Mark is a shortish read and moves at a very fast pace. Told from a variety of perspectives, the reader gains a good insight into the lives of the key characters as well as the investigation itself. Enough information is revealed to lead the reader to suspicions but it never quite ties together until towards the end. It kept me guessing and, on my toes, throughout.
I love the character of Daniel Graves. He’s a force to be reckoned with at work and often presents as being a little closed off but also has vulnerable and gentle side that comes out. He is fiercely protective of his family, friends and colleagues and is loyal to them but has no qualms putting them right if needed. His partner Charlie is a bit of a relaxed cheeky chappy and balances Daniel out well. Over the three novels you can see how their relationship has grown and how fond of each other they are.
In addition to the main case, there is also a lingering malevolence caused by a former case who is threatening Daniel and people he gets close to. This allows the reader a more intimate peek into Daniel’s personal life and his fears away from the job.
The added occult/supernatural twist is now a trademark of this series and I hope it stays as they are riveting reads. I love this series and highly recommend them to crime lovers.
I love how the D.I Graves series always have a spiritual/supernatural element to them that always seems plausible. I have no beliefs at all in other worldly things however Jackson-Smart still manages to set my goosebumps off and put chills through my spine with his clever storytelling and I really think this series would make an excellent TV series.
The Devil’s Mark is a shortish read and moves at a very fast pace. Told from a variety of perspectives, the reader gains a good insight into the lives of the key characters as well as the investigation itself. Enough information is revealed to lead the reader to suspicions but it never quite ties together until towards the end. It kept me guessing and, on my toes, throughout.
I love the character of Daniel Graves. He’s a force to be reckoned with at work and often presents as being a little closed off but also has vulnerable and gentle side that comes out. He is fiercely protective of his family, friends and colleagues and is loyal to them but has no qualms putting them right if needed. His partner Charlie is a bit of a relaxed cheeky chappy and balances Daniel out well. Over the three novels you can see how their relationship has grown and how fond of each other they are.
In addition to the main case, there is also a lingering malevolence caused by a former case who is threatening Daniel and people he gets close to. This allows the reader a more intimate peek into Daniel’s personal life and his fears away from the job.
The added occult/supernatural twist is now a trademark of this series and I hope it stays as they are riveting reads. I love this series and highly recommend them to crime lovers.
March 8, 2021
‘The Devil’s Mark’ is the third book in the series featuring Detective Inspector Graves. I read and loved the first two books in the series and I couldn’t wait to get started on ‘The Devil’s Mark’. So without further ado, I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and settled down to read the next instalment of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Devil’s Mark’ but more about that in a bit.
It didn’t take me long to get into this story. In fact after the first few pages, I just knew that I wasn’t going to able to put the book down for any length of time. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read the book when I was eating my tea (dinner) and some of the details of the crime were a bit graphic, although that didn’t stop me eating. The nature of the crime intrigued me and I had to keep reading to see how the story panned out. The more of the book I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages turned. For me, ‘The Devil’s Mark’ is the true definition of an unputdownable page turner. I found this to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Devil’s Mark’ is extremely well written. The author certainly knows how to start the story in a memorable way and he draws you into the story from fairly early on. For me, ‘The Devil’s Mark’ hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Devil’s Mark’ was much like being on a rather scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. Just when you thought that you could take a breather to gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s all thanks to the author’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short I really enjoyed reading ‘The Devil’s Mark’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It didn’t take me long to get into this story. In fact after the first few pages, I just knew that I wasn’t going to able to put the book down for any length of time. I made the fatal mistake of starting to read the book when I was eating my tea (dinner) and some of the details of the crime were a bit graphic, although that didn’t stop me eating. The nature of the crime intrigued me and I had to keep reading to see how the story panned out. The more of the book I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages turned. For me, ‘The Devil’s Mark’ is the true definition of an unputdownable page turner. I found this to be a gripping read, which kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘The Devil’s Mark’ is extremely well written. The author certainly knows how to start the story in a memorable way and he draws you into the story from fairly early on. For me, ‘The Devil’s Mark’ hit the ground running and maintained a fast pace throughout. Reading ‘The Devil’s Mark’ was much like being on a rather scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with more twists and turns than you would find on a ‘Snakes & Ladders’ board. Just when you thought that you could take a breather to gather your thoughts then off the action would go again. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s all thanks to the author’s very vivid and realistic storytelling.
In short I really enjoyed reading ‘The Devil’s Mark’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more from this author in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
February 7, 2021
The Devils Mark in the third book in the DI Graves series and this time sees him and partner DI Palmer dealing with an investigation that has them delving into the worlds of witchcraft and rituals.
When body parts are found in a London park by an early morning jogger it’s the last thing that Graves and Palmer want to see. With no clues to the identity or even where the murder took place this is not going to be easy. When more body parts turn up in another location, they know they are dealing with a serial killer, but they still have no idea what the connections are or even why the victims have been chosen. To try to at least work out what all the strange markings mean they enlist the help of Professor Charlotte Gooding. As things develop between Graves and the professor it puts her life in danger from another assailant that has links to Graves and has unfinished business with him.
As the book progressed, I did work out some of the links between the perpetrators and the victims but this didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book and as the investigation progressed and one of the team inadvertently ends up in danger, solving the crimes becomes a race against time and I was not expecting the events of the final chapters. These are probably the most violent of the whole book as although the crime scenes are described the author never actually depicts any of the murders in the book.
There is great teamwork and friendship between Graves and Palmer and they always have each other’s back even if they don’t always see eye to eye in their personal lives. This easy relationship is also extended to the less experienced members of the team and this makes the unit one that always works well together.
Normally I am not a big fan of supernatural type thrillers but there is something about this series that has me hooked. Maybe its because nothing is quite as it seems and despite them always ending up with cases that have the element of the unexplained, they always go in with their minds open and are willing to follow any line of investigation that will lead them to the truth. This is definitely a great addition to the series and will look out for more.
When body parts are found in a London park by an early morning jogger it’s the last thing that Graves and Palmer want to see. With no clues to the identity or even where the murder took place this is not going to be easy. When more body parts turn up in another location, they know they are dealing with a serial killer, but they still have no idea what the connections are or even why the victims have been chosen. To try to at least work out what all the strange markings mean they enlist the help of Professor Charlotte Gooding. As things develop between Graves and the professor it puts her life in danger from another assailant that has links to Graves and has unfinished business with him.
As the book progressed, I did work out some of the links between the perpetrators and the victims but this didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book and as the investigation progressed and one of the team inadvertently ends up in danger, solving the crimes becomes a race against time and I was not expecting the events of the final chapters. These are probably the most violent of the whole book as although the crime scenes are described the author never actually depicts any of the murders in the book.
There is great teamwork and friendship between Graves and Palmer and they always have each other’s back even if they don’t always see eye to eye in their personal lives. This easy relationship is also extended to the less experienced members of the team and this makes the unit one that always works well together.
Normally I am not a big fan of supernatural type thrillers but there is something about this series that has me hooked. Maybe its because nothing is quite as it seems and despite them always ending up with cases that have the element of the unexplained, they always go in with their minds open and are willing to follow any line of investigation that will lead them to the truth. This is definitely a great addition to the series and will look out for more.
March 26, 2021
I've really been enjoying the Palmer and Graves partnership in WD Jackson-Smart's novels; they're police procedurals but with an element of supernatural so absolutely anything can happen and it frequently does. Although I've kept up with the series, you can definitely read The Devil's Mark as a standalone as any recurring characters are given a good introduction so that new readers are not disadvantaged.
In quite a grisly instalment, Palmer and Graves are on the trail of a killer who dismembers bodies and surrounds the crime scene with bloody symbols suggesting human sacrifice. They aren't sure who or what they are hunting but as the body count rises, there is officially a serial killer in London.
I felt like I was part of a secret club as the storyline played out; the reader is able to see a lot more of the picture than Palmer and Graves can see. They do say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, but a fearful woman at the end of her tether can also make rash decisions. It seems like there's always someone waiting to pounce on vulnerable people and profit from their insecurities.
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced, gripping and chilling thriller; it's pretty dark and often squeamishly vivid but I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. It has made me want to read the earlier books all over again now as it really is a cracking series.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog tour; all opinions are my own.
In quite a grisly instalment, Palmer and Graves are on the trail of a killer who dismembers bodies and surrounds the crime scene with bloody symbols suggesting human sacrifice. They aren't sure who or what they are hunting but as the body count rises, there is officially a serial killer in London.
I felt like I was part of a secret club as the storyline played out; the reader is able to see a lot more of the picture than Palmer and Graves can see. They do say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, but a fearful woman at the end of her tether can also make rash decisions. It seems like there's always someone waiting to pounce on vulnerable people and profit from their insecurities.
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced, gripping and chilling thriller; it's pretty dark and often squeamishly vivid but I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. It has made me want to read the earlier books all over again now as it really is a cracking series.
I received an ARC to read and review for the blog tour; all opinions are my own.
February 27, 2021
I really enjoyed the first in this series, The Demons Beneath, so I thought I'd give this one a go. It is the third in the series and it can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading the other books in the series as some storyline runs over into this one.
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced ride of a book. The elements of horror and police procedural combined to make a really enthralling story.
DI Daniel Graves and DI Charlie Palmer made a good double act. Their banter and friendship is so fun to read, giving a bit of light relief in quite a dark tale. I also enjoyed the fact there were some love interests for both characters after what the author puts them through, they deserve some happiness!
I felt this book was a little heavier on the violence/graphic scenes than I remember from The Demons Beneath, but I didn't mind that too much.
The Devil's Mark is a thrilling and action packed read that really kept me hooked until the very end. A brilliant addition to the series!
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced ride of a book. The elements of horror and police procedural combined to make a really enthralling story.
DI Daniel Graves and DI Charlie Palmer made a good double act. Their banter and friendship is so fun to read, giving a bit of light relief in quite a dark tale. I also enjoyed the fact there were some love interests for both characters after what the author puts them through, they deserve some happiness!
I felt this book was a little heavier on the violence/graphic scenes than I remember from The Demons Beneath, but I didn't mind that too much.
The Devil's Mark is a thrilling and action packed read that really kept me hooked until the very end. A brilliant addition to the series!
March 15, 2021
The Devils Mark by WD Jackson-Smart is the third book in a series featuring DI Daniel Graves and DI Charlie Palmer. I have not had the pleasure of reading the previous books so I went in 'cold turkey' I suppose you could say. This book was fine to be read as a standalone although as always with a series, to get a complete picture of the main characters, it is always best to read them chronologically.
In this book DI Graves has to untangle the meaning of a blood stained effigy of body parts that are found in a central London park. Symbols that are at the crime scene suggest a connection to the occult.Graves and Palmer start to investigate the act of human sacrifice and the ritual involved. They decide to involve a professor in the field, Charlotte Gooding. Working together they aim to discover a motive. Could this be a killer who believes in the supernatural or even witchcraft? When another crime scene is discovered there is more blood, more symbols and even out in the open. This seems to be someone who wants their work to be seen by as many people as possible. Graves is on the clock, with pressure mounting to solve this before more crime scenes are discovered.
This killer is really happy to make a display for everyone but someone from DI Graves's past is intent on spilling Graves's blood....while he attempts to find an occult killer.
A fast-paced horror mixed with police procedural that had me hanging on to every word with a grotesque fascination. A story that is brutal in parts, this killer does not mess about! It definitely made for dark reading. The back story shows how people can be that twisted it becomes their normality. It is a weird normality though. Both DI Graves and DS Palmer are characters I would love to be friends with. The banter they bounce of each other shows the friendship they have and it gives is a little light reprieve from the darkness surrounding the case. After finishing this book I need to add the first two to my pile of never decreasing books and fill in the bits I am missing! All in all The Devil's Mark is a thrilling read that I couldn't put down I found it that intriguing and one I would recommend of you don't mind a bit of gore and graphic scenes.
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Panther Publishing for my copy of the book and my place on the tour today.
In this book DI Graves has to untangle the meaning of a blood stained effigy of body parts that are found in a central London park. Symbols that are at the crime scene suggest a connection to the occult.Graves and Palmer start to investigate the act of human sacrifice and the ritual involved. They decide to involve a professor in the field, Charlotte Gooding. Working together they aim to discover a motive. Could this be a killer who believes in the supernatural or even witchcraft? When another crime scene is discovered there is more blood, more symbols and even out in the open. This seems to be someone who wants their work to be seen by as many people as possible. Graves is on the clock, with pressure mounting to solve this before more crime scenes are discovered.
This killer is really happy to make a display for everyone but someone from DI Graves's past is intent on spilling Graves's blood....while he attempts to find an occult killer.
A fast-paced horror mixed with police procedural that had me hanging on to every word with a grotesque fascination. A story that is brutal in parts, this killer does not mess about! It definitely made for dark reading. The back story shows how people can be that twisted it becomes their normality. It is a weird normality though. Both DI Graves and DS Palmer are characters I would love to be friends with. The banter they bounce of each other shows the friendship they have and it gives is a little light reprieve from the darkness surrounding the case. After finishing this book I need to add the first two to my pile of never decreasing books and fill in the bits I am missing! All in all The Devil's Mark is a thrilling read that I couldn't put down I found it that intriguing and one I would recommend of you don't mind a bit of gore and graphic scenes.
Thanks to Damp Pebbles Blog Tours and Panther Publishing for my copy of the book and my place on the tour today.
February 18, 2021
The third DI Graves book is just as compelling as the first two. Graves and his partner find themselves once again on the trail of a brutal killer on the streets of London. Jackson-Smart has created some great characters that make you care what happens next and his descriptions of London are well crafted. Not for the squeamish but a good murder mystery.
March 25, 2021
The Devil’s Mark was my most anticipated release of 2021, and WD Jackson-Smart is one of my favourite athors, so I am extremely lucky to get to be part of this blog tour. I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for D.I. Graves, and to see how his story continues. I have been so excited about this book, so as soon as my physical copy arrived (which I bought for myself, despite being sent a digital copy for the tour, because I just HAD to add it to my collection), I dived straight in, despite having 2 other books on the go already.
As usual, WD Jackson-Smart sets an atmosphere, and intensity that hooks you from the very beginning, with an exciting and gory opening chapter. From there, the story continues in much the same way as it starts. The murders are very brutal, so if you’re a little squeamish, this might not be the best book for you. Personally, these are my favourite books to read, and the bloodier the better! The method of how the bodies were left made the story so much more interesting, and I really enjoyed the spiritualistic aspect of it.
Alongside these murders, we get the problems following Graves from a previous case. Although this is a continuation from the previous 2 books of the series, The Devil’s Mark can still work as a standalone, mainly because we are given brief reminders of what happened along the way, so that new readers aren’t too confused about what/why these things are happening.
D.I. Graves and his team are such great characters. We get in depth background stories on some, and not so much on others, but they are all enjoyable to read about. I particularly like that sometimes the team do make mistakes, it makes the story so much more realistic, and it also makes the team seem more believable. Nobody is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
This book certainly lived up to all of my expectations. It was everything I could have asked for! Two thrilling stories, coming in to one, with an explosive, exciting, and extremely satisfying ending. It has you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I can’t wait for more from D.I. Graves and his team, and I am so ready for book 4 in the series!
I give The Devil’s Mark a 5 star rating!
A huge thank you to Emma at Damppebbles, WD Jackson-Smart, and Panther Publishing, for allowing me to be a part of the blog tour, and for sending me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
As usual, WD Jackson-Smart sets an atmosphere, and intensity that hooks you from the very beginning, with an exciting and gory opening chapter. From there, the story continues in much the same way as it starts. The murders are very brutal, so if you’re a little squeamish, this might not be the best book for you. Personally, these are my favourite books to read, and the bloodier the better! The method of how the bodies were left made the story so much more interesting, and I really enjoyed the spiritualistic aspect of it.
Alongside these murders, we get the problems following Graves from a previous case. Although this is a continuation from the previous 2 books of the series, The Devil’s Mark can still work as a standalone, mainly because we are given brief reminders of what happened along the way, so that new readers aren’t too confused about what/why these things are happening.
D.I. Graves and his team are such great characters. We get in depth background stories on some, and not so much on others, but they are all enjoyable to read about. I particularly like that sometimes the team do make mistakes, it makes the story so much more realistic, and it also makes the team seem more believable. Nobody is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
This book certainly lived up to all of my expectations. It was everything I could have asked for! Two thrilling stories, coming in to one, with an explosive, exciting, and extremely satisfying ending. It has you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I can’t wait for more from D.I. Graves and his team, and I am so ready for book 4 in the series!
I give The Devil’s Mark a 5 star rating!
A huge thank you to Emma at Damppebbles, WD Jackson-Smart, and Panther Publishing, for allowing me to be a part of the blog tour, and for sending me a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2022
My 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 review
I absolutely love a brutal and gruesome murder and WD Jackson does not disappoint! If you are a bit squeamish you might find this a tough read but I urge you to be brave! It really is worth it.
This is book three in the series and I haven’t read the previous two yet but it was very easy to jump straight in. It works well as a ‘stand alone’ novel just as easily as a gritty police procedural series. Others have said in their reviews that the series just gets better and better and I cannot wait to read the first two!
The writing is superb. The brutality and graphic nature of the violence doesn’t overshadow the plot. The characters, although new to me, were exceptionally well described and I quickly came to know and love them. I became invested in the worlds they inhabit. I was totally gripped and read this greedily, eager to know what had happened and why. Definitely one of my favourite new authors!
Thank you so much to Bloodhound Books and the brilliant WD Jackson for my ARC! 🙏
Description
A gory display in a London park sets the police scrambling, in this new thriller by the author of From Inside the House. When a bloodstained effigy made of body parts is found in a park, DI Daniel Graves must discover what it means and find the person responsible. Symbols at the crime scene suggest the occult. Who is behind this horrific scene and what’s his purpose? As Graves and his partner, DI Charlie Palmer, begin to investigate, they enlist the help of Charlotte Gooding, a talented professor specialising in the arcane. Then the next crime scene is found. More blood, more symbols, and again, out in the open. It seems the killer wants the world to pay attention, but why? How are they choosing their victims? The pressure is on for Graves to put an end to the murders before more victims appear. In addition, Graves’s past is still not behind him. Someone is eager to make sure he doesn't forget and cannot move on. And they’re not playing games anymore. There may be a killer out there, but someone else is out for blood—Daniel Graves’s blood . . . Praise for the DI Graves series: “Panic-inducing moments.” —Scream magazine “Lures readers in and holds them.” —Online
I absolutely love a brutal and gruesome murder and WD Jackson does not disappoint! If you are a bit squeamish you might find this a tough read but I urge you to be brave! It really is worth it.
This is book three in the series and I haven’t read the previous two yet but it was very easy to jump straight in. It works well as a ‘stand alone’ novel just as easily as a gritty police procedural series. Others have said in their reviews that the series just gets better and better and I cannot wait to read the first two!
The writing is superb. The brutality and graphic nature of the violence doesn’t overshadow the plot. The characters, although new to me, were exceptionally well described and I quickly came to know and love them. I became invested in the worlds they inhabit. I was totally gripped and read this greedily, eager to know what had happened and why. Definitely one of my favourite new authors!
Thank you so much to Bloodhound Books and the brilliant WD Jackson for my ARC! 🙏
Description
A gory display in a London park sets the police scrambling, in this new thriller by the author of From Inside the House. When a bloodstained effigy made of body parts is found in a park, DI Daniel Graves must discover what it means and find the person responsible. Symbols at the crime scene suggest the occult. Who is behind this horrific scene and what’s his purpose? As Graves and his partner, DI Charlie Palmer, begin to investigate, they enlist the help of Charlotte Gooding, a talented professor specialising in the arcane. Then the next crime scene is found. More blood, more symbols, and again, out in the open. It seems the killer wants the world to pay attention, but why? How are they choosing their victims? The pressure is on for Graves to put an end to the murders before more victims appear. In addition, Graves’s past is still not behind him. Someone is eager to make sure he doesn't forget and cannot move on. And they’re not playing games anymore. There may be a killer out there, but someone else is out for blood—Daniel Graves’s blood . . . Praise for the DI Graves series: “Panic-inducing moments.” —Scream magazine “Lures readers in and holds them.” —Online
October 6, 2022
Book two finished with a bit of a twist as Graves is still left wondering what happened to his sister’s boyfriend who appeared to know Graves’ murdered girlfriend Jenny and has now himself vanished. Alarmed that someone seems to know far too much about him, Graves has been forced to move home but the short-lived investigation into Greg Armstrong has been wound up without conclusion and the fear always remains that he will return to torment Graves further. A jogger stumbles across a truly gory scene in Hyde Park, an apparent effigy or demonic sacrifice made up of body parts. Palmer and Graves wonder what sort of twisted killer displays their work like this. It’s not long before a second horrific scene is discovered at Greenwich and still the detectives have no link between the victims or a motive for their deaths. Two women who have fallen foul of very unsuitable boyfriends meanwhile find help at an arts centre aimed at empowering women but soon discover that this is not the only craft on offer and become caught up in the murder investigation. With the case turning ever darker and more satanic, will the police be in time to prevent further bloodshed?
After reading book two, I was looking forward to this one. The plot was exciting, although a little implausible and impractical at times. My main problem was that, unlike in the previous book, this time I didn’t really take to most of the characters. DS Ross Hayes and the IT guys were great and Palmer and Graves work well together, each complimenting the other’s flaws but unfortunately both have awful taste in women, these being the clingy limpet-like Molly and the self-centred ruthless Kelly. Even DS Amelia Harding came over as pushy and rather unlikeable this time. The two inspectors seem to be left very much to their own devices and are not monitored by more senior ranks, and indeed two officers pretty much get away with murder without being answerable to a higher authority! That said, like book two, the story is well written and fast flowing, weaving a web of grisly confusing clues and false leads for both the reader and the police to follow but sadly it rather missed its mark for me this time. 3.5*
After reading book two, I was looking forward to this one. The plot was exciting, although a little implausible and impractical at times. My main problem was that, unlike in the previous book, this time I didn’t really take to most of the characters. DS Ross Hayes and the IT guys were great and Palmer and Graves work well together, each complimenting the other’s flaws but unfortunately both have awful taste in women, these being the clingy limpet-like Molly and the self-centred ruthless Kelly. Even DS Amelia Harding came over as pushy and rather unlikeable this time. The two inspectors seem to be left very much to their own devices and are not monitored by more senior ranks, and indeed two officers pretty much get away with murder without being answerable to a higher authority! That said, like book two, the story is well written and fast flowing, weaving a web of grisly confusing clues and false leads for both the reader and the police to follow but sadly it rather missed its mark for me this time. 3.5*
October 3, 2022
What another fantastic book in the DI Graves Series I am totally loving this series; the murders are very gruesome and not for the faint hearted. A great storyline and well written keeps you gripped and wanting to know how it will unfold.
When body parts are found in a park DI Graves and partner DI Palmer are called in due to the positioning of the body parts and the markings around the body. They enlist the help of a professor who specialises in this area and could she be a new love interest for DI Graves as the sparks fly. Another crime scene is called in with more symbols, can they between them and their team before more people are killed, what links these murders.
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand alone as the book does recap on the personal side of DI Graves and DI Palmer’s lives but I would highly recommend reading the first two books From Inside the House and The Demons Beneath
When body parts are found in a park DI Graves and partner DI Palmer are called in due to the positioning of the body parts and the markings around the body. They enlist the help of a professor who specialises in this area and could she be a new love interest for DI Graves as the sparks fly. Another crime scene is called in with more symbols, can they between them and their team before more people are killed, what links these murders.
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand alone as the book does recap on the personal side of DI Graves and DI Palmer’s lives but I would highly recommend reading the first two books From Inside the House and The Demons Beneath
September 21, 2022
A really enjoyable police procedural, which makes me excited to know there are two earlier books I can go back to read. Although there are parts of the story which (presumably) refer to events in the earlier books, I thoroughly enjoyed it as a stand alone, and don't feel I missed anything by not having read the previous books......apart obviously from 2 more good reads!
Graves is a likeable main character, and his relationships with colleagues and a new love interest are both really well written. I'm hoping there will be another book coming soon as I'd love to know how his and Molly's relationship develops.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
I think anyone who enjoys police procedurals will enjoy this and I would thoroughly recommend.
Graves is a likeable main character, and his relationships with colleagues and a new love interest are both really well written. I'm hoping there will be another book coming soon as I'd love to know how his and Molly's relationship develops.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
I think anyone who enjoys police procedurals will enjoy this and I would thoroughly recommend.
September 30, 2022
Another good read featuring the likeable Graves & Palmer & is a quick & surprisingly easy read considering the rather gory content. Graves & Palmer are on the hunt for whoever is leaving dismembered bodies surrounded by mysterious symbols & as the case progresses, a link towards witchcraft takes the pair down a route that proves dangerous.
There's plenty of action & thrills as things race to the conclusion, along with some heart-pounding moments where I found myself gasping "WHAT??!!". I can't help but think it would make a great TV series: gory murders, hints of the occult & good characters - what more do you need?
Overall, a good read.
*I received a free copy from Bloodhound Books. This review is my own opinion*
There's plenty of action & thrills as things race to the conclusion, along with some heart-pounding moments where I found myself gasping "WHAT??!!". I can't help but think it would make a great TV series: gory murders, hints of the occult & good characters - what more do you need?
Overall, a good read.
*I received a free copy from Bloodhound Books. This review is my own opinion*
October 4, 2022
I loved this book! It opens with a very gory and exhilarating chapter, and I was hooked! This book is most definitely not for the squeamish - there are several murders and each one is somewhat gruesome - you have been warned. The occult nature of the murders held my interest as did the well-rounded characters, and the sense of atmosphere the author creates is again, second to none. I was so pleased that DI Graves found himself falling for a specialist drafted in to assist with making sense of the occult symbols attached to the murders - he really does deserve happiness!
Quite simply, this book lived up my expectations from beginning to end and is worthy of all five stars. Next one please!
Quite simply, this book lived up my expectations from beginning to end and is worthy of all five stars. Next one please!
October 4, 2022
This is the kind of book I enjoy - fast-paced crime and you can almost hear the clock ticking. Potential witchcraft in the mix was an interesting addition.
This is the first book I've read by WD Jackson-Smart, although it is the third in the DI Graves series. It did work as a standalone book, but a fair bit of backstory was revealed and I think this includes "spoilers" for the earlier books. Then again, I should have read them in order, shouldn't I? I enjoyed this one enough that I will read the earlier books anyway.
All in all, a welcome discovery of a new author for me and ideally suited for a spooky slant on a crime thriller in the run up to Halloween.
Thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for the eARC of this book.
This is the first book I've read by WD Jackson-Smart, although it is the third in the DI Graves series. It did work as a standalone book, but a fair bit of backstory was revealed and I think this includes "spoilers" for the earlier books. Then again, I should have read them in order, shouldn't I? I enjoyed this one enough that I will read the earlier books anyway.
All in all, a welcome discovery of a new author for me and ideally suited for a spooky slant on a crime thriller in the run up to Halloween.
Thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for the eARC of this book.
September 30, 2022
Book 3 in this fascinating series and another gripping story. I was hooked straight from the start as it begins with a gruesome discovery. From there, we are treated to some really strange goings-on and some witchcraft rituals.
If you like your crime stories dark, gritty and a bit spooky, then this is the story for you. I actually read this in a day as I was so determined to read a little bit more and before I realised it, I was nearly at the end. Of course, I had to definitely finish it then as I had come so far.
I hope there's some more stories in this series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advance copy of this, and this is my honest review.
If you like your crime stories dark, gritty and a bit spooky, then this is the story for you. I actually read this in a day as I was so determined to read a little bit more and before I realised it, I was nearly at the end. Of course, I had to definitely finish it then as I had come so far.
I hope there's some more stories in this series.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for an advance copy of this, and this is my honest review.
October 6, 2022
This is the first time I have read a book by this author and I was impressed! I loved it.
The Devil's Mark by WD Jackson-Smart is the third book in the D.I. Graves series and I had no problems getting my teeth stuck into it and a great standalone book.
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced roller coaster ride with lots of twists and turns throughout, I was gripped by the very first few pages and did not want to put it down.....Which made it an interesting read.
I will be looking out for this new author in the future. I highly recommend this book and I will be going back to read the other two books.
The Devil's Mark by WD Jackson-Smart is the third book in the D.I. Graves series and I had no problems getting my teeth stuck into it and a great standalone book.
The Devil's Mark is a fast-paced roller coaster ride with lots of twists and turns throughout, I was gripped by the very first few pages and did not want to put it down.....Which made it an interesting read.
I will be looking out for this new author in the future. I highly recommend this book and I will be going back to read the other two books.
October 4, 2022
This is number 3 in a series of novels featuring DI Graves. It is the first book I have read by this author and I was unaware of the first two books in the series. It definitely works as a stand alone.
This book is fast paced and I thoroughly enjoyed the speed of the novel. The murders are gory and there is a hint of supernatural woven through the book.
I will look up the first two in the series and go back and read them. I am looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for my Advanced Reader copy of this novel.
This book is fast paced and I thoroughly enjoyed the speed of the novel. The murders are gory and there is a hint of supernatural woven through the book.
I will look up the first two in the series and go back and read them. I am looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to Bloodhound books for my Advanced Reader copy of this novel.
October 5, 2022
A great read, 3rd book in the series but could be read as a stand alone. Great characters, some I loved such as Daniel and Charlie, I love the dynamics of the duo, and then some characters who are a tad irritating, but a good book always needs those one or two characters that make us seethe. I won’t write about the storyline as I feel the blurb already does this well. But I will say if you like police procedurals that clock up decent, gorey, graphic body counts, that always has something going and doesn’t really let up then your in for a treat.
September 19, 2022
I do love this series and this one did not disappoint. This could be read as a standalone but would benefit from reading the first two, especially for understanding the ending. I liked the way that it is not just Graves who is highlighted and I am looking forward to how they grow during the series and what direction the series goes in.
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
I was given an advance copy by bloodhound books but the review is entirely my own.
October 5, 2022
Really enjoyed the previous DI Graves book so thought I would read this one aswell. I really enjoyed the storyline, although a bit gory, this doesn't really phase me too much! It continues the story on a little bit from the previous book, however it explains briefly what happened in previous books so you can grasp the storyline without having to read the previous ones. This kept me interested throughout and another one of my favourite authors. Well worth a read.
October 5, 2022
This is number 3 in the DI Graves books, but it can be read as a stand alone as I really enjoyed it despite having not realised that it was a series, I will be reading the rest though as I enjoyed it.
Graves is a well written and relatable character, as are most of them and I found the story to have a fast pace and a few twists to keep me interested.
A clever thriller, gruesome in places, with a normal everyday setting made this novel easily digestible and enjoyable.
Graves is a well written and relatable character, as are most of them and I found the story to have a fast pace and a few twists to keep me interested.
A clever thriller, gruesome in places, with a normal everyday setting made this novel easily digestible and enjoyable.
October 5, 2022
Thanks to Bloodhound books and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 3rd book in this series by the author and I have read the others. Again this did not disappoint.
From the start with a grim discovery of a body, it is fast paced and you can feel the race against time to catch the culprit. There is also the mix of witchcraft which gives the book a different edge to it.
DI Graves and his team are likeable characters and again another great thriller
This is the 3rd book in this series by the author and I have read the others. Again this did not disappoint.
From the start with a grim discovery of a body, it is fast paced and you can feel the race against time to catch the culprit. There is also the mix of witchcraft which gives the book a different edge to it.
DI Graves and his team are likeable characters and again another great thriller
October 6, 2022
This is the third installment of the D.I. Graves series and it certainly does not disappoint! I started reading this series out of order (in error) but I quickly found myself so engrossed with characters and storyline that I made it my mission to get caught up.
It can be a little gory at times but that's what keep me coming back for more! Don't get me wrong, it's not all gore and blood. The evolution of the story and relationships are top notch. I'm in this series for the long haul!
It can be a little gory at times but that's what keep me coming back for more! Don't get me wrong, it's not all gore and blood. The evolution of the story and relationships are top notch. I'm in this series for the long haul!
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