The Decalogue (DCI Priest Series - Book 1)
“Really enjoyed this read. It was a bit unexpected as I've not heard anything about the author. The first book in a series is always nice, with no catching up to do. You learn how the characters work and the pattern is set for years to come. I will be getting his following books as soon as I hear about them. Very enjoyable and I feel I've found another good author to follow."
AMAZON REVIEWER
“This was the first book of the DCI Priest series I have read, and I shall be reading many more, the story was well written, and the plot was good, I like this DCI, so all in all I would say that it is well worth reading.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Very good debut novel from Mark Pettinger. Very detailed. Made me wanting more. Can't wait for the next book. When is that?”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“A good start to a series looking forward to book 2. Kept me enthralled from start to finish nice one.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Absolutely brilliant! Really gritty plot and kept you guessing, I would highly recommend this book!”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Great story, well written, hope there is more to come in the DCI Priest Series. Will be keeping a look out.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“A good, solid murder mystery novel with a great pace that kept me reading way beyond my bedtime!. The characters are all pretty well rounded, and I enjoyed the various sub-plots involving the police officers almost as much as the main action surrounding the serial killer.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
““Fast paced. Page Turner and enjoyable. I got the killer as soon as the character entered the storyline, but then I do read a lot of crime fiction. I still enjoyed every chapter."
AMAZON REVIEWER
“This is an excellent read designed to keep you reading with no hint of the murderer until well into the second half of the book. Looking forward to reading more of this author.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“I thoroughly enjoyed this book, loved the characters, and can't wait for the next one. It was a joy to read.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“First book I have read from this author will look for more”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Excellent, kept me interested right to the end and left me wanting more. Hope this isn't the last we have seen of Priest and his colleagues. Await next book eagerly.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“This is the first book I have read from Mark Pettinger but definitely will not be the last. I was hooked from the start. He has a lovely writing style, the story flows and we find out more about DCI Priest as we go along.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“A real and down to earth police book. A new detective is on the block. An exciting and a surprise ending to this book makes me want to read more by this author. Thoroughly enjoyed it.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
Tick Tock Time's Up (DCI Priest Series - Book 2)
"I was looking forward to the second DCI Priest novel and on many levels this did not disappoint me."
AMAZON REVIEWER
““I'm an avid reader of Stephen King and Dean Koontz books and though this is more thriller rather than horror this was just as an enjoyable read as the best Koontz or King books. Kept me gripped from start to finish so much that I finished it in three days as I just couldn't put it down. Every spare minute I was picking it up to see what would happen next. Loved it and can’t wait for more books from this writer. I am usually quite disappointed with the endings of books too but not with this one!”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Definitely worth a read. Gripping.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“A final twist, which I didn't see coming! A good second story, will certainly read more. Loved it!”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“Read both books in the series, enjoyed the first one couldn’t put the second one down! I hear there is a third one out this year, so looking forward to reading it. I read Patricia Cornwall, James Paterson and Lee Childs among others, this author easily on a par.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“I enjoyed the first book but this was a different level. Great pace from the off I struggled to put this down. The author has clearly matured his writing style. Hope book three is in the pipeline!”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“I was asked to review the author’s debut novel last year on behalf of www.e-thriller.com..... The second book did not disappoint…..I have enjoyed both books and really like this author’s style of writing. I feel this author is going places and can see him up there with the established crime authors. Fans of this author will be hoping there is a book three and beyond. A great read highly recommended.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“The story is engaging and captivating and for me it’s clear that Mark Pettinger is getting his grip on the DCI Priest books, the protagonists and the storylines.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
Paper Soldiers (DCI Priest Series - Book 3)
“"This is a scary and unpredictable world and one which Pettinger seems to effortlessly bring to life on the page."
READANDRATED.COM
“If you like crime and/or police procedurals and can handle graphic violence, then you may enjoy Paper Soldiers”
MEREDITH RANKIN
"A fast paced thriller which takes care to show the inner workings of a gang in the Greater Manchester area..... The book was packed with action and there was plenty of content"
NEXT TO THE AISLE
"...a real page turner. I was on the edge of my seat, flipping the pages as quickly as I could. ... The pacing was fantastic and I was entertained the entire way through."
JESSICA BELMONT
“The 3rd instalment in the DCI Priest series and it does not disappoint.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“This is definitely the best book in the series. It seems like the author has found his style and pace. From the very first page, this story hurtles along and you find it hard to put down. Some likeable characters are forming and you find yourself getting immersed in the book. A true gangland thriller. The author can be proud of this effort and can quite rightly ask to be seated at the top table with the likes of Ian Rankin, Mark Billingham and Peter Robinson. Let's hope the 4th instalment of Priest is already in the making.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
“It is 5 stars from me for this one, it was a well-developed story that was packed with action and thoroughly enjoyable – very highly recommended!!”
DONNA’S BOOK BLOG
"Paper Soldiers is superbly written. The author certainly grabs your attention from the start with the discovery of a body in rather unusual circumstances. The book wasn't exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn't bear to miss a single second of the story. As desperate as I was to ration how much I read in one go, I was unable to stop reading because I was enjoying the story too much!! The pages turned over at a furious rate and at one point the page numbers became a blur."
GINGER BOOK GEEK
"I seemed to almost feel the pain rising off the pages. Compulsive reading for any crime enthusiasts, it will keep you engrossed to the very end."
BOOKS BEHIND THE TITLE
"I give this cracking novel an easy 5 stars and look forward to reading more about DCI Priest’s adventures soon."
DAMP PEBBLES
“I think this was my favourite from the series so far. Couldn't put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it. Really connected with the characters and there was brilliant detail to the most dramatic scenes. I'm into horror/thriller books and this was right up my street.”
AMAZON REVIEWER
Where Darkness Lies (DCI Priest Series - Book 4)
“The characters are well developed, and the storyline is engaging and keeps you on your toes throughout the book. I really enjoyed it!"
AMAZON REVIEWER
“"Very well written with lots of twists and turns. The author has gone to a lot of trouble to do their homework; getting the facts right - small details count. It's a book that you can't put down until the end and leaves you wanting more. Very good. Really hoping there will be another book in this series
AMAZON REVIEWER
"The author is brilliant and has given us a thrilling ride, filled with good details and a great storyline to follow. It was absolutley addicting to read along and I found myself wanting to read 'just one more chapter' because i absolutely had to know what Priest found around the bend. Ultimately, a brilliant read and one you need to have on your tbr pile."
IG: @pause_theframe
“This is a great crime novel filled with mystery and drama throughout. The storyline was good too as it followed a convicted rapistwho admitted to killing three girls! I was contanty wondering what was going to happen as there was just the right level of suspense throughout."
IG: byo_books
“Overall this was a good book that focussed less on action and more on detective work, which is a change to my normal thrillers. I enjoted it and would read the others in the series."
IG: amys_booknook
“DCI Priest is such a great character he was so funny at times I loved his humour. I also liked the relationship between DCI Priest and DS Stephens too. The story was gripping! I wasn't really sure how it was going to go. Surely it couldn't be as straight forward as the killer coming forward after all this time could it? You will have to read it to find out."
IG: chaptersofvicki
“This was a decent crime thriller read, with an interesting plot, criminals that you really just wanted to reach through the pages and slap, and a team of inspectors that were interesting to follow."
IG: thepennotthesword
“Wow this book is both gritty and gripping! I love a good crime novel and this one is really good. The plot is really fast moving and keeps you guessing. There were some twists I didn't see coming for sure. Although this is part of a series, it works as a standalone story. You can bet I will checking out the books that came before this one though. Tense and immersive, I could barely put this one down. If you love a good crime thriller this will not disappoint."
IG: daisyhollands
“Where Darkness Lies is a gripping, edge of your seat police procedural that will keep you hooked until the very end. It's a brilliant read with some great characters. The writing is exceptional, drawing you into the story. It's full of twists and just when you think it's all over, bam, something new hits you, a whole new angle. I do there will be many more DCI Priest cases in the future."
IG: bookaddict.twylie68
“The procedural details of the investigation are realistic and well researched. I plan to go back and read the first three installments as soon as possible."
IG: promising_pages
“It has been a while since I read a good crime fiction book. This is the 4th in the DCI Priest series but it can definitely be read as a standalone, at no point did I think that I had missed out on something. Due to this, this book picks up straight away and is very fast paced. Its such a page turner and an easy read, I fely like I couldn't put it down As for the crime itself, it is so gripping - I don't want to give anything away but if you love and read crime fiction, this is definitely one you should have on your radar."
IG: nemoslittlelibrary
“I enjoyed Where Darkness Lies a lot. It's easy to follow and despite all the horrific crimes being discused and investigated, the book was still easy to read and it never got heavy or too much. This was an all in all great book and I'm looking forward to reading more about DCI Priest and his team."
IG: allandanybooks
“When reading the storyline, it was evident that the author had done a lot of research into the way that things would be done by the police and that added to the believability of the story. Equally, the character development was really good, so I had clear images in my mind of what they were like and this is what make me feel more invested in them. If you like police procedurals and crime fiction then I woild definitely recommend this book."
IG: cupcakebaker68
“There are so many twists and turns in this book that I couldn't call it. I love a book with short chapters that I can read while on a break at work, and those chapters were packed with drama. I can't wait to read more from DCI Priest."
IG: wee_glasgow_bookworm
“Overall, the characters were interesting to learn about, and getting to know the detectives outside of work felt refreshing, they were like breaks from the intensity of the case. The flashbacks, despite being unpleasant situations to read about, were very helpful in envisioning and understanding the full story."
IG: what.izreads
“This is the 4th book in the DCI Priest series, but I read it as a standalone and I don't think you need to read the others before. There was plenty of back story inserted where needed and it was easy to get to grips with each character and their dynamic within the team."
IG: candygirl73reads
“Overall, I read this book within a day and a half. I really enjoy this genre, and from the start I was hooked. I felt a little disappointed by the ending, I'm not gonna lie, but all in all, a fast-paced, thrilling page turner, with a very strong couple as the main protacgonists. Enjoyable read."
IG: mirandas_bookscape
“The premise is unusual for a police procedural thriller as you already know who has committed the crime which makes this book all the more intriguing to read. It is certainly a page turner and I finished it in one sitting, so if you are a fan of this genre of book then look out for any of these books in the series."
IG: stephanies_readingcorner
“I'v had a few testing reads lately I was definitely in search of a pick me up. Thankfully this crime thriller was the perfect choice. I'd recommend giving this book a read, it definitely helped me out of a reading slump."
IG: mylifein.books
“Well written with a compelling storyline and well developed characters. It is faced paced and gripping so I found it really hard to stop reading and almost read it in one sitting. I thought I had it all figured out, until I didn't. Twisty and unpredictable. I loved it."
IG: fiction_vixen18
“Where Darkness Lies is a gripping crime fiction novel It is not your typical whodunnit story because someone has already confessed to the crimes and the novel follows the investigation after someone is behind bars. This is a really well written novel."
IG: book_dragon_gems
“The story flows well and gripped me to the end. The story has a great plot and enjoyed the twists and turns in the book."
Emma Fitzgerald
“I absoluyely flew through this, what a [age turner! I was gripped from start to finish. It was well written, easy to read and I loved the short chapters. It had an interesting plot with a clever twist which I wasn't expecting. I really enjoyed the book and will definitely be reading the others in the series."
IG: tixbrown
“My roots in books and reading come from my love of thrillers and true crime and this book was a great testiment to that."
IG: beckyandherb00ks
“Glad there was a 4th book - been waiting for this for ages! Really enjoyed it."
AMAZON REVIEWER
“I really enjoyed this book. I found it an easy and engaging read..... I also think this would make a great TV series."
IG: @lovetoread42
“This is one of those books that you easily see as a tv show. The fourth book in the series, my first introduction to DCI Priest, and what a compelling read it was."
IG: a_ranger_in_the_south
“As soon as I started reading the story, I was immediately hooked. The story has so mnay twists and turns, and was just so intriguing, I was determined to know what happened next."
IG: redhead_reviews1
"A really well written book that kept me wanting to read on. Lovely sneaky twist that I wasn't expecting that really evolved the story for me. I felt a slight disconnect to the main characters at first - but again I'm reading a book mid series and feel this would have been developed earlier in the series - but by then halfway point I really started to like our main characters. A really great crime fiction. And I may even go back and read earlier books in the series too."
IG: bek.is.reading
“The story is well written with a good plot. It starts in the present and throughout the investigation to the past to what was going on before each girl went missing. I really liked this because it provides more information and grabs your attention. The author gives the characters a life outside of investigating crimes, so you are able to get to know them and connect. Overall if you are looking for a quick crime thriller this is definitely a good one to pick up."
IG: adlynsreadingcorner
“I found DCI Priest to be a likeable character and I'm sure I would build on ths opinion reading the other books in the series. I am looking forward to reading more books from this author."
IG: flamingcopper
“Where Darkness Lies was an easy read, I think it will be perfect for someone who wants to explore the crime fiction genre. Pettinger gets straight into the details of the case, but also allows the reader to see into DCI Priest and DS Stephens personal lives, this gives relief from the crimes and increases the connection with thr characters."
IG: em_hollingworth
“This is a gripping page turner and despite being book 4 in a series reasd well as a standalone. The storyline keeps you guessing all the way through and I enjoyed getting to know DCI Priest and DS Stephens. If you are a fan of police procedural / crime novels then thsi is for you."
IG: _lozzieloves
“Where Darkness Lies is a gritty police procedural that follows DCI Priest in his quest to uncover the truth of 3 missing girls. Mark does a great job of keeping the pace which leaves you turning the pages, wanting more. Overall I enjoyed this gripping crime fiction and will certainly go on the hunt for more Mark Pettinger."
IG: a_ndrew_reads
“This was a good solid piece of crime fiction. I found it a bit difficult to follow the time jumps, but it was interesting to followthe story from two different time periods. I enjoyed getting an insight into the private lives of the main detectives. It felt well researched and realistic. I enjoyed this and found it an easy read."
IG: bookish_belfast
“YES. This book was a hit! I love crime fiction and a gripping plot and likeable characters are crucial to an ajoyable book and this book nailed that. I would thoroughly recommend this book to anyone out there that is like me and like a crime, mystery kind of style fiction book."
IG: alibraryofbooksandcoffee
“I'm finding this book very easy to read. It's like you're in the room with detectives and part of the investigation. The writing is very modern with relevant life/time references such as slang, tv shows and mentions of COVID. This makes the story very real creating more of a connection to the reader."
IG: prowlerbooks
“Read this if you enjoy: The police procedural genre, Happy Valley, detective series. If you're looking for a new crime fiction series to read on holiday this year, this could be it."
IG: the.readinglife
“I found the police procedure interesting and I liked a lot of the characters. I'd like to read the previois books to learn more about them, but they aren't needed to enjoy this one. Overall an entertaining and interesting crime with an unusual twist."
IG: alittlemixofvix
“Nice sized chapters and an easy enjoyable read with likeable characters. Great for crime fiction fans."
IG: craftandbookjunkieni
“I wasn't sure what to expect from the plot, as it almost feels like it gives you so much in the blurb, you know what's going to happen but I was pleasantly surprised by how the story unfolded. The slower pace gives freedom to details and differing perspectives, which help to build the narrative overall."
IG: thelittlereadingcorner_
“I wasn't expecting the twist that came later in the book so this came as a great surprise. Overall, it was a good crime detective series and an enjoyable read if you're a fan of this genre like I am."
IG: sophs_booknook
“This is a well written book that flows with a fast pace, I finished it in a day."
IG: ericas_bookreviews
“This book lulled me into a bit of a false sende of security. I thought I kne where it was going and I was happy with it, but then boom, a twist that I was NOT expecting, and I was even more happy with that. It's definitely a page turner and the plot and characters are excellent."
IG: mostlymurdermystery
“I absolutely agree this book needs three weeks to celebrate - intense, love the characters. Though I have not read all of the books in this series, I had no issue keeping up. Great read for a cozy blanket, tea and locked doors."
IG: chaoshappinessbookmama
“The writing was gripping and intriguing and I read this in only a couple of sittings. Will definitely be grabbing the earlier books to catch up on this series."
IG: book_a_holic_17
“This book ticks all the boxes you'd expect from a mystery / crime novel- but with a unique approach."
IG: justreadingthetimeaway
“The author's writing style is definitely a major plus point, and you can see the amount of resarch gone into the story. I highly recommend this gripping thriller."
IG: fantasybookcraz_mum