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Jake Pettman #3

Blue Falls

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A preying killer. A team of bloodthirsty mercenaries. A disgraced chief of police on a trail of murder.

Following the brutal events of the past months, the Maine State Police cannot stem the rising tide of violence sweeping through Blue Falls and its neighbouring towns.

At the heart of this discontent, Jake Pettman hides from men he betrayed back in England. Savage men who now know where he is.

But Jake has more pressing concerns.

Kayla MacLeoid. A kidnapped fourteen-year-old girl.

And Jake cannot turn his back on a child.

Even if it kills him.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 23, 2021

222 people are currently reading
98 people want to read

About the author

Wes Markin

34 books235 followers
Be sure to follow Wes on BookBub for the latest on sales: bit.ly/3tFWIHL

Wes Markin lives in Harrogate and is the bestselling author of the DCI Yorke crime novels set in Salisbury. He is also the author of the Jake Pettman series set in New England.



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5 stars
253 (59%)
4 stars
130 (30%)
3 stars
38 (8%)
2 stars
3 (<1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Linda Strong.
3,878 reviews1,709 followers
October 14, 2021
As with all the Wes Markin's books, BLUE FALLS is packed with action. The plot is complex with many things happening ... crime escalating in the small Maine town where Pettman is hiding out .... the men who desperately want to get their hands on him ... a kidnapped teen-age girl .. and the disgraced police chief who has her.

The story line is full of twists and turns that lead in first this direction, and then to a different direction. The characters are fully developed. Pettman, as the protagonist, pushes the story forward as he is the central force of the story. Although 3rd in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. However, I do recommend reading the books from the beginning as there are some things mentioned here that refer back to the first books.

Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Profile Image for Terry Rudge.
543 reviews62 followers
September 24, 2025
This series is decent, just not spectacular. Wes Markin knows how to build a good main character, and that’s what keeps me reading. Blue Falls ties up the threads left hanging from books 1 and 2, and it does so with a proper blockbuster-style finish, while still leaving the door open for the next instalment.

For me though, I prefer Markin when he’s in UK based police procedural mode. That’s where the detail and grit really come through. These US set books lean more into gunslinger territory, and while that’s fine, it doesn’t quite hit the same for me.

Solid read, but I’ll be looking forward to when we’re back on home turf.
1,397 reviews22 followers
September 17, 2021
4.75⭐️
Gore score 4/5

#3 in the Jake Pettman series.

Having loved the other 2 dark gritty books in the series I was keen to read this one. You really need to read the books in order. If you read the blurb for this one it will be a spoiler for #2.

This one takes up where book 2 ended with Jake hot on the tail of Gabriel who has kidnapped Kayla.

The time frame jumps around far too much for me in the introduction. I would prefer that the book just started at ch 1. After that the time frame continues to jump between days for the rest of the book but is easy to follow, and works well adding suspense.

This book continues in the same dark gritty vein as the others I’m pleased to say. The body count soon starts mounting up. It is fast paced, lots of action.

We get to see the softer side of Jake with Piper.

In this book the author has moved from animal cruelty Phew!

I like how Peter takes no prisoners with Jake he gives it to him straight, but always has his back. It’s good to see Peter using his tracking skills. We learn more about Peter in this book. Their relationship is great, it works really well.

This book is far more emotional in its content than the others 🖤 this one tugged on my heartstrings.

I had trouble with an element at the end, as well as with the intro which has affected my rating slightly.

This is a great book, very entertaining, and I highly recommend it if you love dark gritty, gory thrillers.

I’ll end my review with a favourite quote from the book.
‘ … the only woman I ever loved…. Is she still alive?, no, but what does that have to do with love? ‘ very poignant.
134 reviews4 followers
November 9, 2021
Blue Falls is the third in the Jake Pettman series, and my goodness it certainly doesn’t disappoint!, action from the first pages, and as one would expect from Wes Markin there is no messing around, Jake is still going after ex Police chief Gabriel Jewell who has abducted Kayla McLeod, and is totally under the influence of drugs, killing anyone who gets in his way. Also new revelations come to light about descendants of Jake, quietly living in Blue Falls. Some new characters are introduced, how the author comes up with some evil and twisted individuals is beyond imagination!, the author describes his characters so well it is easy to visualise them, and feel the intensity build up as the plot line unfolds, he really is quite brutal and matter of fact in his writing. This is a great follow on from the first two books, personally I believe you would have a greater feel for some characters if you follow them through the previous two books, you will also get a better understanding of their actions.
Highly recommended, another first rate book from Wes Markin.
Profile Image for Catriona Kupper.
726 reviews4 followers
October 15, 2022
An enjoyable story but due to the jumping around a little hard to follow
Profile Image for Kath Middleton.
Author 23 books158 followers
August 29, 2021
This whole book is effectively a chase, as Jake tries to catch Gabriel to free Kayla. It looks at the way evil and corruption reverberate through a community. Although some of the perpetrators are dead, they’ve left wounded souls behind. The culmination of this book, as you’d expect from Wes Markin, is fast-paced and exciting. Can Jake come back from this? I can’t wait to find out.
Profile Image for Donna Morfett.
Author 9 books71 followers
September 14, 2021
Blimey, where to begin.
Book 2 ended in somewhat of a spoiler so of course Wes doesn't address this in any way until right near the end.
The high energy, tense action carries on exactly where it left off in book 2.
Blue Falls is still reeling after Jake has come in and tackled the long term rule of Jotham Mcleoid. His daughter Kayla is still missing and the old police chief is on the run.
The story flicks between different time frames.
The first chapter is possibly one of the best I've read. Full on and intense.
Then the story goes back in time to show how the characters involved got to be there.
There are so many twists and turns along the way. I was gobsmacked more times than I can remember thinking Wes wouldn't do that would he? Generally the answer was, oh right, yes he would.
This is another book with a high body count. Can't imagine Blue Falls has much of a population left.
I would love to mention a couple of bits, but can't because of spoilers, but will say Wes has a very sick and twisted mind indeed.
You might be able to tell I really loved this. I read it as quickly as I could physically manage, around sleeping and working. It was impossible to put down.
This is book three in the series. I would argue that this can be read as a very thrilling standalone, but a few story threads would make more sense when reading the previous two.
One of Wes' strengths is his character building. Even the minor characters are so well written that you become rather attached to them and feel like you know them. One of my favourites being Peter, the Abernaki Vietnam vet who loves dogs. What's not to love. I also like Kayla, who despite being through the most horrific of ordeals, is still calm, compliant and forgiving.
Profile Image for Kath.
3,083 reviews
October 19, 2021
To really get the best from this book I believe it is pretty crucial to have read the previous two - The Killing Pit and Fire in Bone - there is a bit of a catch-up / memory jogger to be found in this book but I don't think that's enough to really get to grips with what is going on, and more importantly, why!
So... we start with a bit of a bang - literally! and then go back to see how Jake ended up in that situation. We pretty much start back from where book 2 left off with Jake hot on the heels of the disgraced police chief, determined to save the girl he has kidnapped. It's all a bit convoluted how we got to this stage, hence me recommending as above, and it gets even more so as this book goes on. As with the previous books, the author doesn't pull any punches and it's all a bit gritty and quite dark in places. It's very much heart in the mouth too along the way as what is going on is emotive as well as being action packed. It's well plotted and that plot is expertly executed with well described characters who are easy to connect to / emote with, even if negatively! I say characters, I'm talking about ALL the characters, main, supporting and the ones who hardly have anything to say/do but all are just as carefully created.
When you start the book be aware that, if you're like me, it will draw you in from the off and hold you capture so I'd not plan to do anything important for the rest of the day! The no nonsense way the author writes, with no superfluous waffle or padding, means that the story gets on with itself at a fair lick and sucked me in for the duration.
All in all, a cracking addition to this dark thrilling series, roll on next time. With how this book ended, I'm quite intrigued to see where the author goes next...
Profile Image for Joanne West.
227 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2021
Initially I struggled with this book. It's action packed from the very beginning which is great but it also moves around between a number of different characters as well as jumping about a time line.
However, once I got to grips with who everyone was and what was going on (I haven't read the previous 2 books so this may have added to my issue here) then it was easy enough to follow.
This book has lots of violence and gore and death (no wonder there were so many characters to begin with!) However, it's written in quite a casual and easy to read kind of way.
The main character, Jake Pettman, I do not feel I warmed to and I've finished the book still not really knowing if I like him or not.
The book itself doesn't really end in so far as there's clearly more to come in another book.
I read many books of this genre but the style of this one felt very different to most that I have read before and if I'm honest I don't feel the style quite suits me. I could see the story from this book being on screen as a film or a series.
Initially I was debating between 3-3.5 stars 🌟 however reading some of the other reviews I feel 3 would be a little harsh especially considering if I had read the first 2 books in the series before this one then some of my initial issues may not have been there so for that reason I give it 3.5 stars.
342 reviews4 followers
September 28, 2021
The stunning conclusion of the Jake Pettman trilogy based in and around the town of Blue Falls. Certainly not for the faint hearted, this thriller will have your heart pounding and you holding your breath, while also at times have you cursing the author as he plays with your emotions as the story races towards a thumping climax.

Jake Pettman is not a bad man, he's a man who's done bad things ~ things which have come back to haunt him in spades, even though he's thousand of miles away from home. But while he's keeping one step away from the bad guys, a motley band of mercenaries intent on putting him down, he's also trying to save a young girl from the deranged and obsessed chief of police of Blue Falls.

At first the jumping about between time lines was a bit disconcerting, but it all made sense as it explained how each of the characters arrived where they needed to be. The character building and pace of the storyline made this a truly riveting read. While this could be read as a standalone, in my opinion you'll get far more from the story by reading the previous two books first.

I received an ARC of this novel from the author and am posting my honest review
303 reviews1 follower
December 27, 2021
It's 2:30 in the morning, ask me why I'm still up!

My preferred genre is British Police Procedurals , I read them like a mad woman. This series, though it include an ex DS, is as far away from that as all get out! But I can't tear myself away! Thisq last book (or it was supposed to be?) a grabbed me on the first page, and I couldn't stop reading until I was done. This storyline was intense, emotional, deep, dark and gory!! It snowed us why Jake Pittman would have never been able to stay I the police force, as he is like the ppl he searched for! But he is truly, in many ways a good man!this series we got to learn a little more about the characters and bow deeply Jake loves, and we had to say good he to a few too! Some good, some really bad. But in the end, we learned what a good man Jake is, because he dis the right thing for someone he loves. Now, that is all I will say, if you want to learn more you're going to have to read the book yourself! It is definitely well worth the time it takes to read it. Ugh a whole month to go before the next installment!
Profile Image for Monica Mac.
1,692 reviews41 followers
November 9, 2021
I was introduced to this character via the Michael Yorke series and so I thought that the fact that this is book 3 in the series and I hadn't read the first two wouldn't be too much of an issue. I was wrong. If you get the chance, please read books one and two first. It took me till probably a third of the way through this book to pick up the thread of the story.

Jake Pettman has moved to the other side of the world but trouble just keeps on following him around. Despite his best efforts, he is on the radar of some very unsavoury characters indeed. However, he is on a mission to rescue 14 year old Kayla and nothing, and no-one, is going to stop him.

This book is written in the author's trademark, no-holds-barred style. If you are in any way squeamish, this is not the book for you! Even I had to be careful when I read it, as it is in no way an easy, before-bedtime read, lol.

A really good story, I like Jake, despite his faults.

4 stars from me.

Profile Image for kelly freaney.
266 reviews3 followers
October 28, 2021
As with the previous two books I knew this book would involve some serious trigger issues. But what a book! From the 1st book which I had to put down a few times due to the dark subjects to this one Jake has taken us on a rollacoaster of emotions but unlike the others this was straight into the action. The books follow on from another and you do need to read the previous two to get a sense of what it's all about. Knowing this was a trilogy I knew things had to be resolved one way or another and no character would be safe like the previous books. No spoliers but they aren't safe in this one either. I held my breathe for most of 5his book and also shed tears. The writing is dark, descriptive and terrifying. If your a fab of crime or thrillers this is one for you. I haven't been able to put it down!
431 reviews6 followers
September 12, 2021
Blue Falls , with its beautiful waters has had more than its share of madness and death in the past few months ..It's something the townsfolk will never forget...But when Ex Detective Jake Pettman , a man with a past that haunts him ..who bore witness and partook in this events that unfolded ...hears that the Chief of Police , Gabriel Jewell has abducted and absconded with 14 year old Kayla McLeoid ..its something he can't ignore ..But what will he encounter along the way ? For in the shadows of this beautiful place , where the Skweda river flows there is a darkness black as night ..And as the hunter becomes the hunted ..Jake Pettman will be drawn into his darkest nightmare...Wes Markins Darkest writing Cold ..Chilling ....Nightmarishly Dark ...
Profile Image for Sue Wallace .
7,401 reviews139 followers
November 2, 2021
Blue falls by Wes Markin.
Jake Pettman book 3.
A preying killer. A team of bloodthirsty mercenaries. A disgraced chief of police on a trail of murder.
Following the brutal events of the past months, the Maine State Police cannot stem the rising tide of violence sweeping through Blue Falls and its neighbouring towns.
At the heart of this discontent, Jake Pettman hides from men he betrayed back in England. Savage men who now know where he is.
But Jake has more pressing concerns.
Kayla MacLeoid. A kidnapped fourteen-year-old girl.
And Jake cannot turn his back on a child.
Even if it kills him.
Another brilliant read in this series. I love Wes books. Read in one sitting. I can't wait for next book. 5*.
Profile Image for Deb.
703 reviews22 followers
October 22, 2021
I have a confession to make; I love this Jake Pettman series. Despite the violence, graphic descriptions, triggers & sometimes downright depravity - they’re brilliant.
This one could be read as a standalone, it is the third, but there is an ongoing thread starting with The Killing Pit, so I would recommend reading that first.
The book starts where the last one ended - same characters, same relentless pace, same gripping writing & description. Except added to the mix are some people that Jake upset in another life. Those he was hiding from. Those who have now tracked him down.
Dark & fast paced with an ever mounting body count. Evil personified. Brilliant.
1,488 reviews25 followers
September 6, 2021
Another thrilling non-stop read. This is the third of the Jake Pettman stories in Blue Falls and it follows on from book 2, where Jake is on the trail of Gabriel who has kidnapped Kayla.

It appears though that his past has caught up to him, as there are now some nasty people on Jake's trail also, in revenge for his actions some time before in the UK.

As usual, this is full of action and violence and the pace is unrelenting, adding to the thrill of the read. The ending leaves you wanting more so hopefully there isn't too long to wait for the next instalment.
18 reviews
November 18, 2021
Wes Markin does it again in this fast paced and nail biting thriller

For all lovers of great thrillers then this author and his books are for you. He has created a terrific anti hero in Jake Pettman. Where Wes gets his ideas from I cannot begin to image but I am so glad he does. I read this book in a day. I could not put it down . He does not shy away from the atrocity that human beings can inflict on others. A very well throughout and compelling storyline with fascinating characters. Definitely worth every one of the five stars.
Profile Image for Sheila Moore.
75 reviews
September 27, 2021
Jake , in hiding from those he betrayed in England, becomes involved in the kidnapping of a fourteenth year old girl taken by a former Police Chief whilst at the same time is in a race against time to avoid being caught and killed by mercenaries on his trail. The book is not for the faint hearted it is gritty and fast paced, certainly had me enthralled from the very beginning. If you haven’t read this book or the two preceding ones what are you waiting for.
281 reviews8 followers
October 31, 2021
Action packed! The subject matter was a little uncomfortable at times due to the pure evil of the antagonist. He was dark! Felt terribly sorry for his young victim.

Jake (the protagonist) is not my favourite Wes Markin lead but I like his links to Michael Yorke. Jake is a bit of a hot head and doesn’t always think things through. However, he’s got a good heart and that is what drives him.

This kept me reading.
Profile Image for Kristen.
750 reviews87 followers
November 6, 2021
This is book 3 in the Jake Pettman series and in my opinion it is extremely important to read them in order to get the best experience and not spoil any part of the books. There is flow between each book in this series and book 3 is no exception. The action packed plot continues and the well developed characters continue to draw you into their lives making for a very intense read. I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers copy of this book.
Profile Image for Tam.
2,179 reviews54 followers
November 6, 2021
After the first few pages, I knew this was a book I wasn’t going to be able to put down, until I got to The End. Compulsive and gripping! Suspenseful, addictive and complex! Will keep you swiping the pages furiously. If you like absolutely unpredictable, twisted suspense as much as I do, you can't go wrong with this book!

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
46 reviews
January 8, 2025
Well the book jumps all over the place weaving many story lines together, not all predictable but as gruesome, bloodthirsty and improbable as books 1 & 2. Does Jake survive and keep his friends? does Jake leave a legacy? read for yourself as the book ends with a reference to his old colleagues back in the UK following up on a concern Jake raised along the way. Literary classics? hardly but I stuck with the tale of backwater blue falls and will not be going on holiday there.
Profile Image for Vanessa Krushner.
341 reviews11 followers
September 27, 2021
I read this one for TBC reviewer

This is book three of four featuring Jake Pettman
Jake is trying to find the fourteen year old Kayla MacLeod but his history still stalks him.
The plot is fast and furious with all the fights and occurrences described so well that I found I was holding my breath.
I became easily invested in the character from the first book and still wanted to know what was going to happen next. As with the first two books I am left wanting more.
The plots are of course a little outrageous but entertaining and I cannot wait to see how Wes Markin brings it all to a close in book four.
Profile Image for Anita Hodson.
37 reviews3 followers
September 26, 2021
Gritty crime novel
Unfortunately I haven't read the other books that precluded this one
Jake Pettman is a man with a past that seems to be catching up with him
He navigates his way through locating a missing teen who the local sheriff has kidnapped for nefarious purposes whilst he tries to stay alive and brings those who mean him and his loved ones harm
Looking forward to the next instalment
312 reviews2 followers
October 11, 2021
Excellent gripping thriller

Wow I'm exhausted after reading this, for one I couldn't put it down and two, it certainly got the adrenalin pumping. Non stop action, some really sad parts especially the death of a couple of well loved characters, I felt quite distraught by the end. Can't wait to read the next one but I feel it will be bitter sweet after this one.
Profile Image for Annette.
918 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2021
Action all the way in this edge of your seat thriller. The chase is on and time is running out, Jake Pettman must find Chief of Police Gabriel Jewell who has abducted 14 year old Kayla. Gabriel is obsessed with Kayla and Jake must find them but at what cost?
Profile Image for Darren.
2,041 reviews48 followers
September 19, 2021
I got this as a arc e book for my i pad from a face book group that I am a member of. I enjoyed reading it. It had a good story to it. I liked the variety of characters in it. I have read other books by this author and liked them too.
222 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2021
This is a fast paced action packed thriller which I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters blend well even if there are some gory scenes that I had to hide behind. A well thought out story which I would tell anybody to read.
170 reviews4 followers
October 17, 2021
Third book in this brilliant series. Action packed from the start as all the books are. The story makes you feel a rollercoaster of emotions. Books 1 and 2 must be read before this one as I don’t think the story will read properly and why Jake feels the way he does. Loved it!
Thank you.
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