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The Yorkshire Murders #1
The Viaduct Killings
Still grieving from the tragic death of her colleague, DCI Emma Gardner continues to blames herself and is struggling to focus. So, when she is seconded to the wilds of Yorkshire, Emma hopes she’ll be able to get her mind back on the job, doing what she does best - putting killers behind bars.
But when she is immediately thrown into another violent murder, Emma has no time to rest. Desperate to get answers and find the killer, Emma needs all the help she can. But her new partner, DI Paul Riddick, has demons and issues of his own.
And when this new murder reveals links to an old case Riddick was involved with, Emma fears that history might be about to repeat itself…
But when she is immediately thrown into another violent murder, Emma has no time to rest. Desperate to get answers and find the killer, Emma needs all the help she can. But her new partner, DI Paul Riddick, has demons and issues of his own.
And when this new murder reveals links to an old case Riddick was involved with, Emma fears that history might be about to repeat itself…
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2022
766 people are currently reading
598 people want to read
About the author
Wes Markin
35 books230 followersBe 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.
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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
January 16, 2023
4 / 5 STARS!
This was a good book, the location and setting is super close to home. It was almost like a walk down memory lane. I loved the plot and enjoyed the experience reading the book.
The quality of the book is insane, it’s super high quality and the pages are like butter, which adds to the reading experience. Each page counted almost like seconds ticking, almost like you’re living the plot as it unfolds. It ticks all the right boxes, making these characters more realistic and likeable. The book showcases the emotional and physical package each character has, which feeds into the plot and relationships with each other.
I enjoyed the plot, keeping me on my toes where it was difficult to guess what would happen next, and I was wrong on who I suspected the killer was. Wes knows how to twist the plot to not impact/ reveal who the killer is. I will be keeping an eye out on when the sequel will be to this.
The only reason why I knocked it down a level, is the last 50 pages were like bombshells. To me it seemed all too sudden and it felt like the author wanted to end on a bang. But in my opinion it was almost like a sensory overloading of information that it could have been spread over a few more pages, which made the ending a rush instead. Other than that, this is a book I thoroughly enjoyed, worth reading but just a quick note: it does have some heavy references ( can’t reveal otherwise it’s a spoiler, it’s a part of it but not mentioned until the very end).
This was a good book, the location and setting is super close to home. It was almost like a walk down memory lane. I loved the plot and enjoyed the experience reading the book.
The quality of the book is insane, it’s super high quality and the pages are like butter, which adds to the reading experience. Each page counted almost like seconds ticking, almost like you’re living the plot as it unfolds. It ticks all the right boxes, making these characters more realistic and likeable. The book showcases the emotional and physical package each character has, which feeds into the plot and relationships with each other.
I enjoyed the plot, keeping me on my toes where it was difficult to guess what would happen next, and I was wrong on who I suspected the killer was. Wes knows how to twist the plot to not impact/ reveal who the killer is. I will be keeping an eye out on when the sequel will be to this.
The only reason why I knocked it down a level, is the last 50 pages were like bombshells. To me it seemed all too sudden and it felt like the author wanted to end on a bang. But in my opinion it was almost like a sensory overloading of information that it could have been spread over a few more pages, which made the ending a rush instead. Other than that, this is a book I thoroughly enjoyed, worth reading but just a quick note: it does have some heavy references ( can’t reveal otherwise it’s a spoiler, it’s a part of it but not mentioned until the very end).
December 11, 2025
6.5/10
En otras circunstancias se hubiera llevado 4 estrellas, pero es que en este caso se juntan no 1 policía protagonista traumatizado, sino 2...Lo que ya me parece de guasa.
¿De verdad no hay un policía en el mundo sin traumas? Es que aburre mucho y a mi la verdad me saca bastante de la historia cuando empieza a ponerse interesante y te recuerdan que actúa de tal manera por su trauma, luego 50 páginas después lo mismo y así durante toda la historia...
Y mira que la trama no está mal y tiene su aquel, pero es que me cansa mucho este enfoque...Y para que me guste mucho tiene que haber un algo más, y a esta novela le falta ese algo que me compense tener que aguantar los traumas del autor y de sus personajes.
En otras circunstancias se hubiera llevado 4 estrellas, pero es que en este caso se juntan no 1 policía protagonista traumatizado, sino 2...Lo que ya me parece de guasa.
¿De verdad no hay un policía en el mundo sin traumas? Es que aburre mucho y a mi la verdad me saca bastante de la historia cuando empieza a ponerse interesante y te recuerdan que actúa de tal manera por su trauma, luego 50 páginas después lo mismo y así durante toda la historia...
Y mira que la trama no está mal y tiene su aquel, pero es que me cansa mucho este enfoque...Y para que me guste mucho tiene que haber un algo más, y a esta novela le falta ese algo que me compense tener que aguantar los traumas del autor y de sus personajes.
December 1, 2022
I absolutely loved this. Gripped from the first chapter and drawn into a new precinct with new characters that i sincerely hope are going to be regulars by this author - fingers crossed - it says new series. Flawed central characters dealing with their own issues, their own skeletons and new challenges which threaten to scupper their progress as they come to grips with an horrific new case. Well drawn characters, great story, what else do you need?
January 27, 2023
One of my favourite authors has hit the road running with the start of another new series. This is a full in your face, brutal action packed crime thriller. I only came up for breath after I had turned the last page. A MUST READ and a well deserved five stars.
February 7, 2023
Thank. Goodness. That's. Over!!!
I forced myself to read this, mainly because the start seemed okay. Not great, but okay. Then the event at the start failed to reach real significance - let alone prominence in the protagonist's (many) thoughts. And we were slammed with them repeatedly in italics, to such an extent that it rapidly became tedious.
Then the exclamation marks came in, interspersed with multiple cliches in the prose that made the book read as if the author just wanted to write it, bypass editing, and get it out to his clearly undiscerning readership. The reason I used multiple exclamation marks in the first paragraph is because the author (I can't refer to him as a "writer") at one point gave me the impression that all the characters were constantly yelling at each other so prolific was his use of them.
Then to provide emphasis - if not tension and drama - the author decided. To. Put. His. Points. Into. One. Word. Sentences. In. A. Paragraph. We had this taught out of us in the first year of my diploma course. Because. It's. Annoying. Perhaps the author missed that year.
Add-in wrong words, inconsistencies in plot, even varied spellings of the location, and you have a poorly-written, tedious story that lacks all suspense and is easy to put down. There are few, if any descriptions of the locations and the characters which robs the story of a sense of place and the characters of empathy. I feel sorry for those who paid for this book.
I forced myself to read this, mainly because the start seemed okay. Not great, but okay. Then the event at the start failed to reach real significance - let alone prominence in the protagonist's (many) thoughts. And we were slammed with them repeatedly in italics, to such an extent that it rapidly became tedious.
Then the exclamation marks came in, interspersed with multiple cliches in the prose that made the book read as if the author just wanted to write it, bypass editing, and get it out to his clearly undiscerning readership. The reason I used multiple exclamation marks in the first paragraph is because the author (I can't refer to him as a "writer") at one point gave me the impression that all the characters were constantly yelling at each other so prolific was his use of them.
Then to provide emphasis - if not tension and drama - the author decided. To. Put. His. Points. Into. One. Word. Sentences. In. A. Paragraph. We had this taught out of us in the first year of my diploma course. Because. It's. Annoying. Perhaps the author missed that year.
Add-in wrong words, inconsistencies in plot, even varied spellings of the location, and you have a poorly-written, tedious story that lacks all suspense and is easy to put down. There are few, if any descriptions of the locations and the characters which robs the story of a sense of place and the characters of empathy. I feel sorry for those who paid for this book.
January 16, 2023
Dark
This is a dark novel.Slow moving it contains not a single likable character. The main characters'woes, domestic and otherwise, are tedious. Unsatisfying in all respects.
This is a dark novel.Slow moving it contains not a single likable character. The main characters'woes, domestic and otherwise, are tedious. Unsatisfying in all respects.
November 21, 2022
I've read previous books by this author and enjoyed them so I knew I would enjoy this book. And thoroughly enjoy it I did! The characters of DCI Emma Gardner and her DI Paul Riddick are just brilliant., both have a backstory. For me this was as important to the story as much as the plot was .as it added another dimension to the book. As for the plot,, the murder of a young man is the beginning of their investigation, . it was intriguing and gripping., while discovering the who and why.. A fantastic start to a new series and I hope to read many more . Can't wait for the next book in the series
November 21, 2022
Absolutely brilliant, I’m a big fan of Wes’ books and this one certainly didn’t disappoint, I was transfixed from start to finish.
The storyline was refreshingly original and incredibly well thought out and the characters were very believable and each with their own complex backstories and personalities.
The various twists and turns kept me guessing and surprised and I didn’t predict the ending.
In short I loved this and would definitely recommend.
The storyline was refreshingly original and incredibly well thought out and the characters were very believable and each with their own complex backstories and personalities.
The various twists and turns kept me guessing and surprised and I didn’t predict the ending.
In short I loved this and would definitely recommend.
November 8, 2022
DCI Emma Gardner is seconded from Wiltshire to Knaresborough, North Yorkshire. Emma carries a lot of baggage with her, as does her new DI, Paul Riddick.
When an 18 year old local lad is murdered, Gardner has to get the team on side with her being their new DCI and solve the case. When they find the case is related to a suicide from a few years ago, there is a lot for the team to have to look into.
I have enjoyed all of the author’s books and this is a great start to a new series. DI Riddick is a good and solid character and his story tugged at my heartstrings. As always, there are also some dodgy and nasty characters that spice up the story.
There are plenty of twists to make you realise that you don’t know what you think you know! Great writing and a very good plot.
When an 18 year old local lad is murdered, Gardner has to get the team on side with her being their new DCI and solve the case. When they find the case is related to a suicide from a few years ago, there is a lot for the team to have to look into.
I have enjoyed all of the author’s books and this is a great start to a new series. DI Riddick is a good and solid character and his story tugged at my heartstrings. As always, there are also some dodgy and nasty characters that spice up the story.
There are plenty of twists to make you realise that you don’t know what you think you know! Great writing and a very good plot.
March 19, 2023
Interesting plot and a good and clear narration. Nicely developing series.
October 28, 2025
Had this on my tbr pile for ages and wasn’t holding much hope for it. Got it on a whim at a charity shop and hadn’t heard of the author either. Can’t even remember why I bought it but so glad I read it today instead of re donating it. It was great and fast paced with likeable characters and an original plot . Sooo good! I’ve been googling Wes Markin and looking on here I see he’s quite prolific but his hard copies are few and far between and most of his stuff is on kindle which I don’t use much . Nothing in my local library but that won’t stop me . I’m dusting off my kindle as we speak as mr Markin deserves to be read.
March 22, 2024
Great story line and characters. DCI Gardener features in the DCI Yorke series so going back to read those first as, although the books do not follow on, the settings and history all tie in. Not read any of Wes Markin previously but have really enjoyed the way the books are constructed, the characters and the twists and turns that keep the story live to the end.
December 27, 2022
This is an excellent and very believable crime thriller. As a resident of Knaresborough, I was not sure if it would work geographically, but it does. I can relate to every place described and the two main characters intertwine perfectly. A cracking read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2025
Well, it looks like I’ve found another new author to become obsessed with. This was brilliant.
June 6, 2023
4.5 / 5. Really enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading more from this series.
November 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Kept me hooked from page one a good detective story, looking forward to reading more about the detectives and it is set in a lovely area of the county. Yorkshire. A must read.
November 26, 2022
ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!!!
Oh my where do I start. I am a massive fan of crime thrillers with some great favourite authors and I can now add Wes Markin to my list. I usually know from the first couple of chapters if its going to engage me throughout but I was hooked immediately. What a fantastic story this was. The beginning grabs you straight away setting the scene with the leading character being at a fun fair as a ten year old with her younger brother and parents. Moving to present day events which happen following a home visit regarding a recent murder causes Emma Gardener to be seconded to Yorkshire to pick up the post of DCI to a new team. This was such a wonderful read with likeable characters, believable story and never a dull moment. The ending was perfect a few possible suspects to keep you guessing right to the last few chapters. Easily give 5 stars more if I could. Will be downloading book 2 now I finished my review. Perfect thank you Barbara Sheffield.
Oh my where do I start. I am a massive fan of crime thrillers with some great favourite authors and I can now add Wes Markin to my list. I usually know from the first couple of chapters if its going to engage me throughout but I was hooked immediately. What a fantastic story this was. The beginning grabs you straight away setting the scene with the leading character being at a fun fair as a ten year old with her younger brother and parents. Moving to present day events which happen following a home visit regarding a recent murder causes Emma Gardener to be seconded to Yorkshire to pick up the post of DCI to a new team. This was such a wonderful read with likeable characters, believable story and never a dull moment. The ending was perfect a few possible suspects to keep you guessing right to the last few chapters. Easily give 5 stars more if I could. Will be downloading book 2 now I finished my review. Perfect thank you Barbara Sheffield.
June 15, 2022
Firstly I would like to thank the Author Wes Markin for my ARC copy of his book. I started this book this morning and once I started reading I could not put it down until i had finished reading it. I Absolutely enjoyed reading this book. As you all know there are twists and turns that I never saw coming. Well done Wes on a brilliantly written book.
November 26, 2022
A brand new series from Wes Markin which hails a change from the books I have previously read of his. The Viaduct Killings is slightly more 'cosy' than what I am used too. Still, I couldn't wait to see what Wes had in store for me this time.
DCI Emma Gardner is seconded to Knaresborough. She doesn't get time to catch her breath as she arrives when there is a murder to investigate. She finds her DI, Paul Riddick is man with a tortured soul. Can they work together as they need to, to solve this case? Or will the demons from Riddick's past and Emma's grief get in the way of the case?
If there is one thing I can guarantee, it's that Wes Markin always weaves a story that you don't want to stop reading. Emma does appear in the Yorke books, so anyone who has read them will already know her. In Knaresborough, she is out on a limb. Alone as she has left her family behind temporarily, in a strange place and with a new team, she is determined to solve the case. I got to know Emma properly in no time. She is a tenacious woman, who knows she needs Paul Riddick and his local knowledge, but she also knows there is something not right somewhere.
Again, a very well written crime thriller and characters I cared for before I had read a quarter of the book. I was kept guessing about the murderer due to the twists, turns and red herrings that Wes Markin had thrown in for good measure. Even though the reader is allowed to see some facts that are known to the police, it didn't make trying to guess the killer any easier. I was on the edge of my seat in some parts and for me,that's an excellent sign!
I loved everything about this book. It may not be as dark as his other books but there is a frisson of Wes Markin's darkness running throughout. I didn't expect to be glued to this book for some reason, but I was...totally. The pages almost turned themselves and that ending!! I have to read the next book as soon as humanely possible!
With thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and Wes Markin for the copy of the book.
DCI Emma Gardner is seconded to Knaresborough. She doesn't get time to catch her breath as she arrives when there is a murder to investigate. She finds her DI, Paul Riddick is man with a tortured soul. Can they work together as they need to, to solve this case? Or will the demons from Riddick's past and Emma's grief get in the way of the case?
If there is one thing I can guarantee, it's that Wes Markin always weaves a story that you don't want to stop reading. Emma does appear in the Yorke books, so anyone who has read them will already know her. In Knaresborough, she is out on a limb. Alone as she has left her family behind temporarily, in a strange place and with a new team, she is determined to solve the case. I got to know Emma properly in no time. She is a tenacious woman, who knows she needs Paul Riddick and his local knowledge, but she also knows there is something not right somewhere.
Again, a very well written crime thriller and characters I cared for before I had read a quarter of the book. I was kept guessing about the murderer due to the twists, turns and red herrings that Wes Markin had thrown in for good measure. Even though the reader is allowed to see some facts that are known to the police, it didn't make trying to guess the killer any easier. I was on the edge of my seat in some parts and for me,that's an excellent sign!
I loved everything about this book. It may not be as dark as his other books but there is a frisson of Wes Markin's darkness running throughout. I didn't expect to be glued to this book for some reason, but I was...totally. The pages almost turned themselves and that ending!! I have to read the next book as soon as humanely possible!
With thanks to Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and Wes Markin for the copy of the book.
November 4, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of The Viaduct Killings, the first novel to feature DCI Emma Gardner and DI Paul Riddick of North Yorkshire Police.
Emma is seconded to Knaresborough, North Yorkshire after a tragedy in her native Wiltshire. On her first day in her new job she is called out to a murder and meets her deputy, DI Paul Riddick, a man with an attitude and a lot of hangups.
I enjoyed The Viaduct Killings, which is an eventful novel told at a fast pace. I liked that the author throws in a twist at the end as it seems a fitting end to everything that goes before.
The novel is mainly told from Emma and Paul’s points of view. They might not see eye to eye over interview technique, he wouldn’t know sympathy or gradual build up if they whacked him in the face, but they come to appreciate each other’s strengths and dedication. It looks to me that they could form an enduring and likeable partnership, one formed by personal trauma and a spirit of survival. There is much made in the novel about their emotional baggage and their attempts to deal with it, which seem to amount to drink more. It gives the reader an insight into their characters and a reason to keep reading in the case of Paul as his story is teased out over the course of the novel. Frankly I think it’s too much and detracts from the investigation.
The investigation is interesting. The team spend much of the novel searching for a motive and for a suspect in local criminal circles, but are also looking into an old death from a few years ago that may be linked, a case that brought Paul notoriety in the press and a certain ostracism in the workplace. It makes for an absorbing read and it held my attention throughout.
The Viaduct Killings is a good read that I can recommend.
Emma is seconded to Knaresborough, North Yorkshire after a tragedy in her native Wiltshire. On her first day in her new job she is called out to a murder and meets her deputy, DI Paul Riddick, a man with an attitude and a lot of hangups.
I enjoyed The Viaduct Killings, which is an eventful novel told at a fast pace. I liked that the author throws in a twist at the end as it seems a fitting end to everything that goes before.
The novel is mainly told from Emma and Paul’s points of view. They might not see eye to eye over interview technique, he wouldn’t know sympathy or gradual build up if they whacked him in the face, but they come to appreciate each other’s strengths and dedication. It looks to me that they could form an enduring and likeable partnership, one formed by personal trauma and a spirit of survival. There is much made in the novel about their emotional baggage and their attempts to deal with it, which seem to amount to drink more. It gives the reader an insight into their characters and a reason to keep reading in the case of Paul as his story is teased out over the course of the novel. Frankly I think it’s too much and detracts from the investigation.
The investigation is interesting. The team spend much of the novel searching for a motive and for a suspect in local criminal circles, but are also looking into an old death from a few years ago that may be linked, a case that brought Paul notoriety in the press and a certain ostracism in the workplace. It makes for an absorbing read and it held my attention throughout.
The Viaduct Killings is a good read that I can recommend.
November 25, 2022
Emma Gardner is transferred to Yorkshire after she returns from a sabbatical she took following a mishap with a colleague she blames herself for. A new team awaits her and she is anxious to join it. As luck would have it she is faced with her first case as soon as she joins – a murder. With a seemingly grumpy and short-tempered DI Riddick by her side, Emma catches on to her work and is just warming up when another body is found. As more bodies turn up, Emma is not sure if she can handle all this, especially when she gets news of her brother. Rattled as she is, she finds DI Riddick warming up to her and with his help forges ahead to tackle this mystery.
The book begins with an episode from Emma’s childhood which leaves her traumatized. The occurrence makes a mark on her and affects her even after all these years. With a not-so-happy married life and a daughter to take care of, Emma’s character is as realistically bold as it can get. Riddick, on the other hand, seems off-putting and mysterious in the beginning but as the story progresses, his tragic past is revealed and the reason behind his behavior comes to light.
The story is absorbing. Quick incidents, one after the other, make sure the reader would not want to stop reading. The mystery slowly builds up with suspicions thrown at certain characters from time to time. The to-the-point narration is perfect for a crime thriller and this allows for the story to smoothly carry on. By the end of it all, the reader is surprised. The story invokes a range of emotions – especially one feels for Riddick and the victim’s family.
The ending was unexpected and I do hope there is another book coming up for us to get off that cliffhanger! The Viaduct Killings is a perfect read for someone who likes police procedurals and crime stories.
The book begins with an episode from Emma’s childhood which leaves her traumatized. The occurrence makes a mark on her and affects her even after all these years. With a not-so-happy married life and a daughter to take care of, Emma’s character is as realistically bold as it can get. Riddick, on the other hand, seems off-putting and mysterious in the beginning but as the story progresses, his tragic past is revealed and the reason behind his behavior comes to light.
The story is absorbing. Quick incidents, one after the other, make sure the reader would not want to stop reading. The mystery slowly builds up with suspicions thrown at certain characters from time to time. The to-the-point narration is perfect for a crime thriller and this allows for the story to smoothly carry on. By the end of it all, the reader is surprised. The story invokes a range of emotions – especially one feels for Riddick and the victim’s family.
The ending was unexpected and I do hope there is another book coming up for us to get off that cliffhanger! The Viaduct Killings is a perfect read for someone who likes police procedurals and crime stories.
November 22, 2022
Well, Wes Markin has done it again!! I, honestly, haven't read a series of his that I didn't love, and this is no exception, I know it's only the first book in the series but from past experience Wes's books get better and better as the series develops.
DCI Emma Gardener is no stranger to trauma, but the death of a colleague (which she blames herself for) has her reeling. Emma finds herself seconded to North Yorkshire and her first day on the job sees her taking charge of a murder in the sleepy town of Knaresborough ~ certainly not an everyday occurrence. The victim, Bradley Taylor is widely described as a "little shit", but despite that, Emma is determined to get justice for someone who had his whole life ahead of him. Emma inherits a team, along with a partner, DI Paul Riddick, a man tormented by demons of his own, including a fondness for swigging vodka out of a Sprite bottle to get him through the day.
As always Wes Markin teases the reader with snippets of clues, drawing the reader in, building a picture of the victim which is completely at odds with the image he portrayed to the police. Add in his criminally adept father, Neil; Paul's former mentor Anders Smith and you have a cast of characters guaranteed to keep you turning the pages into the wee small hours. The author definitely makes you care about the characters he writes, making them human and having a series of subplots running alongside the main story.
All I can say, after waffling on, is I can't wait for the next book in the series. Great characters, gripping storyline and set in a location almost a stone's throw from where I live.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC of this book, the opinions contained within this review are my own and submitted voluntarily
DCI Emma Gardener is no stranger to trauma, but the death of a colleague (which she blames herself for) has her reeling. Emma finds herself seconded to North Yorkshire and her first day on the job sees her taking charge of a murder in the sleepy town of Knaresborough ~ certainly not an everyday occurrence. The victim, Bradley Taylor is widely described as a "little shit", but despite that, Emma is determined to get justice for someone who had his whole life ahead of him. Emma inherits a team, along with a partner, DI Paul Riddick, a man tormented by demons of his own, including a fondness for swigging vodka out of a Sprite bottle to get him through the day.
As always Wes Markin teases the reader with snippets of clues, drawing the reader in, building a picture of the victim which is completely at odds with the image he portrayed to the police. Add in his criminally adept father, Neil; Paul's former mentor Anders Smith and you have a cast of characters guaranteed to keep you turning the pages into the wee small hours. The author definitely makes you care about the characters he writes, making them human and having a series of subplots running alongside the main story.
All I can say, after waffling on, is I can't wait for the next book in the series. Great characters, gripping storyline and set in a location almost a stone's throw from where I live.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC of this book, the opinions contained within this review are my own and submitted voluntarily
November 26, 2022
The story:
DCI Emma Gardner is reluctant to leave her Wiltshire life to take up a secondment in North Yorkshire, blaming herself for the loss of a colleague while on duty with her. But her superiors think it’s the best thing for her, to get her out of the slump she has fallen into.
DI Paul Riddick has his own demons to deal with, having suffered terrible personal tragedy and been vilified in the press and by his own colleagues over his handling of a previous case, a young girl’s suicide.
But when a body is found on DCI Gardner’s first day on the job, at Knaresborough Castle in sight of the picturesque local viaduct, the pair must work together to track down a killer.
With the trail leading back to past cases, and the press and public demanding answers, will Gardner and Riddick be able to find the culprit, before they kill again?
My thoughts:
I’m reading quite a lot of crime fiction at the moment — it feels like the right time of year! But “The Viaduct Killings” by Wes Markin really stood out. The partnership between Gardner and Riddick works brilliantly; starting with uncertainty and antagonism, they move towards appreciation of one another’s skills and a genuine rapport.
The plot is an intriguing one, with potential ties to a notorious local criminal, but also the more personal world of the victim and his time at school. The way the various strands of the story come together is well done, and I could imagine this book transferring well to the screen. It ends on a cliffhanger, and I look forward to reading the next instalment to learn more about the demons in DCI Gardner’s past.
A great read for crime fans, and the first in what I hope will be a long-running series!
DCI Emma Gardner is reluctant to leave her Wiltshire life to take up a secondment in North Yorkshire, blaming herself for the loss of a colleague while on duty with her. But her superiors think it’s the best thing for her, to get her out of the slump she has fallen into.
DI Paul Riddick has his own demons to deal with, having suffered terrible personal tragedy and been vilified in the press and by his own colleagues over his handling of a previous case, a young girl’s suicide.
But when a body is found on DCI Gardner’s first day on the job, at Knaresborough Castle in sight of the picturesque local viaduct, the pair must work together to track down a killer.
With the trail leading back to past cases, and the press and public demanding answers, will Gardner and Riddick be able to find the culprit, before they kill again?
My thoughts:
I’m reading quite a lot of crime fiction at the moment — it feels like the right time of year! But “The Viaduct Killings” by Wes Markin really stood out. The partnership between Gardner and Riddick works brilliantly; starting with uncertainty and antagonism, they move towards appreciation of one another’s skills and a genuine rapport.
The plot is an intriguing one, with potential ties to a notorious local criminal, but also the more personal world of the victim and his time at school. The way the various strands of the story come together is well done, and I could imagine this book transferring well to the screen. It ends on a cliffhanger, and I look forward to reading the next instalment to learn more about the demons in DCI Gardner’s past.
A great read for crime fans, and the first in what I hope will be a long-running series!
November 21, 2022
First there was the Michael Yorke series which spawned the Jake Pettman spin-off-series. Now it's Emma Gardner's turn to shine... She is seconded to Yorkshire and has to hit the ground running when she is called out to a murder on her first day. Teamed with DI Paul Riddick, the two of them have to really pull out the stops to try and make sense of what they see. Chalk and cheese and barely met, they have to put all that aside to work out the whys and wherefores...
The story is told in two timelines. The current investigation and flashbacks. The two work well together and complement each other perfectly with the past supplying background and colour to what is happening in the now. As well as progressing the narrative nicely, which goes along at a bit of a lick!
As you would expect from a series opener, there's a fair bit of meet and greet and foundations to be laid. Although, if you've read the Yorke books, you'll already have met Emma. Paul also has a bit (lot) of baggage and there is maybe a tad too much with the two together. But, that said, it's done now, so the next book(s) will be much more crime focussed.
The story itself is very well crafted and kept me on my toes throughout. There are the usual twists and turns etc that you'd expect from a book of this genre. Some of which left me a tad dumfounded,. And then, the ending, when it came was a bit of a jaw dropper!
So all in all, a cracking start to what looks to be another winning series. I will be very interested to see how Paul and Emma develop as characters both individually and as partners. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
The story is told in two timelines. The current investigation and flashbacks. The two work well together and complement each other perfectly with the past supplying background and colour to what is happening in the now. As well as progressing the narrative nicely, which goes along at a bit of a lick!
As you would expect from a series opener, there's a fair bit of meet and greet and foundations to be laid. Although, if you've read the Yorke books, you'll already have met Emma. Paul also has a bit (lot) of baggage and there is maybe a tad too much with the two together. But, that said, it's done now, so the next book(s) will be much more crime focussed.
The story itself is very well crafted and kept me on my toes throughout. There are the usual twists and turns etc that you'd expect from a book of this genre. Some of which left me a tad dumfounded,. And then, the ending, when it came was a bit of a jaw dropper!
So all in all, a cracking start to what looks to be another winning series. I will be very interested to see how Paul and Emma develop as characters both individually and as partners. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
November 19, 2022
The Viaduct Killings by Wes Markin is a gripping contemporary crime novel that had me glued from the start. It is the first book in The Yorkshire Murders series and I cannot wait for the subsequent novels.
This is a fast paced crime thriller that gives the reader a roller coaster ride as the crimes mount up. We see a cold case that appears to be linked to present day.
There are cases that some police personnel are haunted by. A case that they just cannot let go of as the guilt threatens to overwhelm them.
Growing up in an area has the advantages of knowing who the criminals are – the naughty ones at school prove to be equally challenging as adults. Spats from classroom days continue into adulthood. Choices always bring consequences – some choose a life of crime, others a life of law enforcement.
A new face from down south brings a fresh perspective.
A close knit community means sometimes life choices from the past come knocking in the present.
All the characters were well drawn. Wes Markin has created an eclectic mix who produce strong emotional responses from the reader.
Daily life simmers along in the background as a character battles his demons. When what is haunting him is revealed, I was genuinely shocked and saddened.
The Viaduct Killings would make a fabulous Netflix series. It was a cracking crime novel. I am looking forward to book two.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
This is a fast paced crime thriller that gives the reader a roller coaster ride as the crimes mount up. We see a cold case that appears to be linked to present day.
There are cases that some police personnel are haunted by. A case that they just cannot let go of as the guilt threatens to overwhelm them.
Growing up in an area has the advantages of knowing who the criminals are – the naughty ones at school prove to be equally challenging as adults. Spats from classroom days continue into adulthood. Choices always bring consequences – some choose a life of crime, others a life of law enforcement.
A new face from down south brings a fresh perspective.
A close knit community means sometimes life choices from the past come knocking in the present.
All the characters were well drawn. Wes Markin has created an eclectic mix who produce strong emotional responses from the reader.
Daily life simmers along in the background as a character battles his demons. When what is haunting him is revealed, I was genuinely shocked and saddened.
The Viaduct Killings would make a fabulous Netflix series. It was a cracking crime novel. I am looking forward to book two.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
November 13, 2022
Book 1 in the DCI Emma Gardner, Yorkshire Crime Thriller Series and as a fan of this author I was looking forward to the start of a new police procedural and I was not disappointed. It’s a cracker. I loved the two main protagonists, Emma and DI Paul Riddick. Emma is married with a daughter but has had to leave them behind, temporarily, as she is seconded to Knaresborough. Riddick is living with a tragedy in his personal life, trouble from a previous work life and is coping by turning to the bottle. I was completely engrossed from the first to the last page.
Briefly, Emma arrives to a murder, in this quiet town where murder doesn’t happen. Her number two is Riddick a DI with a history and a rather grumpy exterior. When investigations lead back to one of Riddick former cases it looks like the case is coming back to haunt those involved. Can Emma and her new team track down the killer before they strike again?
Really well written story with the reader getting to see some facts before the police uncover them. But there are so many red herrings I never guess the real motive before the reveal and the shocking climax. It really was totally unexpected. And just when I thought it was all over along came the epilogue with a cliffhanger…. This was a great read, a proper police procedural with a brilliantly written plot. Bring on book 2 please
Briefly, Emma arrives to a murder, in this quiet town where murder doesn’t happen. Her number two is Riddick a DI with a history and a rather grumpy exterior. When investigations lead back to one of Riddick former cases it looks like the case is coming back to haunt those involved. Can Emma and her new team track down the killer before they strike again?
Really well written story with the reader getting to see some facts before the police uncover them. But there are so many red herrings I never guess the real motive before the reveal and the shocking climax. It really was totally unexpected. And just when I thought it was all over along came the epilogue with a cliffhanger…. This was a great read, a proper police procedural with a brilliantly written plot. Bring on book 2 please
November 13, 2022
Book 1 in the DCI Emma Gardner, Yorkshire Crime Thriller Series and as a fan of this author I was looking forward to the start of a new police procedural and I was not disappointed. It’s a cracker. I loved the two main protagonists, Emma and DI Paul Riddick. Emma is married with a daughter but has had to leave them behind, temporarily, as she is seconded to Knaresborough. Riddick is living with a tragedy in his personal life, trouble from a previous work life and is coping by turning to the bottle. I was completely engrossed from the first to the last page.
Briefly, Emma arrives to a murder, in this quiet town where murder doesn’t happen. Her number two is Riddick a DI with a history and a rather grumpy exterior. When investigations lead back to one of Riddick former cases it looks like the case is coming back to haunt those involved. Can Emma and her new team track down the killer before they strike again?
Really well written story with the reader getting to see some facts before the police uncover them. But there are so many red herrings I never guess the real motive before the reveal and the shocking climax. It really was totally unexpected. And just when I thought it was all over along came the epilogue with a cliffhanger…. This was a great read, a proper police procedural with a brilliantly written plot. Bring on book 2 please
Briefly, Emma arrives to a murder, in this quiet town where murder doesn’t happen. Her number two is Riddick a DI with a history and a rather grumpy exterior. When investigations lead back to one of Riddick former cases it looks like the case is coming back to haunt those involved. Can Emma and her new team track down the killer before they strike again?
Really well written story with the reader getting to see some facts before the police uncover them. But there are so many red herrings I never guess the real motive before the reveal and the shocking climax. It really was totally unexpected. And just when I thought it was all over along came the epilogue with a cliffhanger…. This was a great read, a proper police procedural with a brilliantly written plot. Bring on book 2 please
November 22, 2022
DCI Emma Gardner is immediately thrown into a murder investigation, a very rare occurrence in Knaresborough, and is given DI Paul Riddick as her second in command. Paul is a man with a tragic past, both personal and professional, and is still struggling to overcome the ghosts which haunt him. He’s abrasive, a drinker and difficult to handle but a very good detective and Emma recognises this in him. After all, she knows all about the loss of someone close, having been recently present at the murder of a colleague which resulted in her year long secondment from Wiltshire to North Yorkshire. A young man, a known troublemaker, has been found murdered at the castle ruins with very little by way of clues and forensics, but soon the detectives discover that a number of people could have had a motive for killing him, including a link to a sad case in Riddick’s traumatic history. Will Emma be able to stop the killer before anyone else dies whilst holding everything together?
Emma Gardner first appeared in this author’s DCI Yorke series which is much darker and more grisly than this one. This story will appeal to readers who love a good solid police procedural with a complex plot but without the sadistic nightmare characters that Yorke had to deal with. This is a great start to a new series and I am looking forward to reading more. 5*
Emma Gardner first appeared in this author’s DCI Yorke series which is much darker and more grisly than this one. This story will appeal to readers who love a good solid police procedural with a complex plot but without the sadistic nightmare characters that Yorke had to deal with. This is a great start to a new series and I am looking forward to reading more. 5*
August 25, 2025
I found this book in the Audible+ catalog a while back and decided to give the series a chance. Although I didn't care for how the (male) narrator voiced the female characters - they all had an almost whiny, falsetto voice - the story itself was good.
It took a bit to warm up to Emma, the MC, but as the story continued and more of her backstory was unveiled, I ended up liking her character and the way she handled both her new colleagues and the investigation. By the end of the book, it appears that she has the trust and respect of her team, and I look forward to seeing how they all work together from here on out.
The first victim was discovered quite early in the book, but it took a while for Emma to learn enough about the locale and its people to know how to conduct the investigation. There was a lot going on, with several other murders along the way. It was apparent that they were all connected, but every time I landed on a most likely suspect, that person ended up dead and I had to start over again. I guessed who the culprit was and the motive before it became glaringly obvious, but only just.
I want to continue the series, but all of the remaining books to date are narrated by the same reader as this one, so I'll probably have to grit my teeth and bear it unless I want to resort to reading them on my Kindle instead.
It took a bit to warm up to Emma, the MC, but as the story continued and more of her backstory was unveiled, I ended up liking her character and the way she handled both her new colleagues and the investigation. By the end of the book, it appears that she has the trust and respect of her team, and I look forward to seeing how they all work together from here on out.
The first victim was discovered quite early in the book, but it took a while for Emma to learn enough about the locale and its people to know how to conduct the investigation. There was a lot going on, with several other murders along the way. It was apparent that they were all connected, but every time I landed on a most likely suspect, that person ended up dead and I had to start over again. I guessed who the culprit was and the motive before it became glaringly obvious, but only just.
I want to continue the series, but all of the remaining books to date are narrated by the same reader as this one, so I'll probably have to grit my teeth and bear it unless I want to resort to reading them on my Kindle instead.
October 5, 2022
I really enjoyed this read and think it had a great start which immediately grabbed my attention and interest. I liked the main character DCI Gardner who is seconded to Yorkshire Police and as soon as she arrives has a murder to investigate. I also liked her DI, he is troubled, flawed, his own worst enemy, has a tragic past and I found I had a lot of empathy for him. I think the author has created two characters here with good histories and has portrayed them very well making them realistic, relatable and believable. There were also some characters that I loathed, just absolutely loathed. When connections are found to a previous case DCI Gardner and her team are up against the clock to prevent more deaths. This book is written very well, it is an engaging and entertaining read which held my interest and attention from beginning to end. It flowed smoothly and I enjoyed the twists that certainly kept me guessing as to who the murderer was. Three quarters in and I still didn’t have a clue. There is a lot of action in the last part of the book leading to a final and surprising ending which I think sets up the next book very nicely. If you like police procedurals I’d recommend this and I will definitely want to read the next book in the series.
4 stars
4 stars
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