I enjoyed this latest police procedural in the series. While it could be read as a stand alone, I think the reader will get more from knowing the backstory of how the characters ended up in their current situations. It was satisfying to see these relationships develop and change. I particularly enjoyed the Knaresborough/ Leeds/ Yorkshire settings.

First book I've read by this author. Overall I thought it was a very good read and I enjoyed it. My few issues are not particularly major and might iron themselves out in subsequent books. I liked Emma but thought she was made to be a bit too much "one of the lads", almost a functioning alcoholic. The plot has been well trodden but executed well in this case. Some bits were a bit long winded
I will read more from this author and a good solid 3.5 stars from me

This was my first ever book by this author and I was completely blown away. It was superbly written, the characters were well rounded, complex and diverse. The story immediately grips you and you are incapable of putting it down.

The book opens with a very ominous and prologue, clearly depicting something macabre, written in beautiful prose.
We then jump to DCI Emma Gardner and her colleague Lucy O'Brien. What starts out as a night of late-night drinking, turns into something more gruesome as a human skull is discovered under rather interesting circumstances.

What then ensues are decades old secrets, a tense murder mystery and lots of raw emotions as members of the team are affected personally by this case.

Despite me not reading this author's backlist and previous books in the series, I was able to follow this story and the drama that unfolded easily. I loved the inclusion of Paul's POV as that added yet another layer of spine-tingling anxiety.
The main investigation of itself was so enthralling and engrossing. I was hooked immediately, and I loved the pacing of the book.

This isn't just a murder mystery filled with thrill and suspense. There's something poignant and heartbreaking about it as well.
When you really get a gist of what is happening and, all the lives that were affected by lies and deceit. Corruption and abuse of power, this book also tugs at your heartstrings.

I loved the inclusion of Jess and autism representation. Her character was wonderfully written. The heavier subject matters were handled with tact and grace, something that isn't always achievable in books of this genre.

They were several twists, turns and mind-blowing revelations along the way. This story never held a dull moment and kept me on my toes all throughout.
I love how all the characters feel like they have a story to tell; in their own way everyone stood out and, I was easily able to remember who was who and what role they played.
I really enjoyed this procedural and will definitely be reading this author's backlist and more in this series.
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Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author for eArc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Pub Date: June 18th, 2024

A solid police thriller with all the usual elements and a handful of twists and turns.
Whilst it is a stand alone novel, I did feel I'd have benefitted from reading the others in the series first.

This book is part of The Yorkshire Murders series but can be read as a stand-alone.
You always know when you start a Wes Markin book it is going to be a good read not read any by him i didn't enjoy.
It was great reading about DCI Gardner again and her cases this time she is trying to find who a skull belongs to. A very good and entertaining read.

The Winter Killings by Wes Markin is a marvellous contemporary novel that I just could not put down. It is part of The Yorkshire Murders series but can be read as a stand-alone. For maximum enjoyment I recommend reading the previous books first. It will enable you to track character development.
Once more we meet up with the police team trying to solve present day crimes. Cold case crimes have links in the present. Long buried secrets are unearthed that threaten innocent lives today.
We witness the destructive power of revenge when it has ruled a life. Back in the 1990’s, a future was stolen on a day. A character has never forgotten.
There is the theme of nature or nurture. A family in the past has committed horrendous acts of cruelty. Could these traits lie dormant in the genes? Are monsters made by society? Or bad genes? The fear of the latter dominates a character’s thinking.
In present day we see an undercover police officer going above and beyond. His future was stolen from him in the past. Now he lives with one eye and his heart on heaven. Readers of previous books will know of his personal tragedy.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. There is loyalty within law enforcement as they function as a family.
Wes Markin has constructed a well thought out and well executed plotline. He keeps the reader on their toes as we follow the action. This was a fabulous read.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

Loved this story. Had everything you need in a books. Twists and turns ,great characters. Would recommend to anyone who asks

This was a bit of a rollercoaster of a read, filled with action and excitement! A great addition to the series featuring DCI Gardner and her team, as well as the reappearance of Paul Riddick who has been missing for some time. I really liked the characterisation and the plotting, it was a bit different and very interesting. It's complex, fast paced and a very entertaining read which I would recommend. Thanks to Net Galley for my ARC.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for this eARC.

The Winter Killings is a very good read and in my opinion a great addition to the authors DCI Gardner series.

Gardner and her team investigate a murder when a skull, followed by its skeleton are found by two people in a short space of time. Who left these parts to be found and why? What Gardner and her team discover is horrifying and affects Barnett personally. I like the authors writing style and think the story flows well with a plot that moves from past to present day easily. Wes Markin grabbed my attention and interest quickly and held it to the last page. I think the first half of the book is fairly slow paced, still a good read though ..... then the pacing, thrills and tension ramp up making this a very moreish and atmospheric read that I couldn't put down. I loved Riddicks thread, it added depth to the story and I was rooting for him.

Overall a very good and entertaining read. If you like crime, police procedurals you'll enjoy this and I'd recommend it.

4 stars

I have enjoyed both storyline and plot which kept my attention all through the novel. The description of the characters' feelings and dialogues felt rather clumsy however. I had problems in believing in them. To me they just didn't feel real. Nevertheless, a pleasant and quite quick read!
I have received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.

I had a difficult time getting invested in The Winter Killings by Wes Markin. I could not connect with any of the characters. The story was good, but it was hard for me to get involved in the plot and really root for anyone.

As winter settles over Yorkshire, DCI Emma Gardner is hoping that work will calm down for everyone. Distracted by the continued disappearance of DI Paul Riddick Emma can’t seem to get her head back in the game. But when a human skull is discovered in a local pub, Emma knows it’s time to get a grip. With no one local reported missing and with no body to be found, the team have their work cut and no obvious clues to follow.

As Emma and the team try desperately to identify the body and the killer, secrets from the past begin to reveal themselves.

I would check out other books by this author. The Winter Killings was just an okay read for me.

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