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DI Tanner #6
The Wherryman
A CHILLING NORFOLK BROADS CRIME THRILLER
Four missing children, three murdered men, and the helm of a boat with a blood-red sail, hiding a secret only he can tell.
Returning to the Broads after nearly two years at sea, Tanner moors up next to a boat to find the body of a man whose five-year-old daughter is nowhere to be seen.
As a torrent of unwanted memories begins flooding through his mind, an attractive Broads Ranger arrives at the scene with a disturbing tale; one of the children being taken by a ghostly figure, standing at the helm of an old wooden boat.
Four missing children, three murdered men, and the helm of a boat with a blood-red sail, hiding a secret only he can tell.
Returning to the Broads after nearly two years at sea, Tanner moors up next to a boat to find the body of a man whose five-year-old daughter is nowhere to be seen.
As a torrent of unwanted memories begins flooding through his mind, an attractive Broads Ranger arrives at the scene with a disturbing tale; one of the children being taken by a ghostly figure, standing at the helm of an old wooden boat.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2021
1460 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
David Blake
41 books297 followersNO. 1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR
With number one bestsellers in both the UK and Australia, to date David has written twenty-two books along with a collection of short stories. He's currently working on his twenty-third, Bluebell Wood, which is the next in his series of fast-paced crime thrillers. When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where his crime fiction books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
www.david-blake.co.uk/CONTACTDAVID
With number one bestsellers in both the UK and Australia, to date David has written twenty-two books along with a collection of short stories. He's currently working on his twenty-third, Bluebell Wood, which is the next in his series of fast-paced crime thrillers. When not writing, David likes to spend his time mucking about in boats, often in the Norfolk Broads, where his crime fiction books are based.
Get news of all future releases, ARC reader info, free books, and all promo offers by signing up to my newsletter:
www.david-blake.co.uk/CONTACTDAVID
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 30, 2021
Favorite Quote:
'I’ve never been much for lounging about in bed.’ ‘Not even after being shot at point-blank range?’ ‘It was only a sawn-off shotgun. Had it been a bazooka, I’d have probably stayed till after lunch.’
My Review:
Woohoo, another home run for the slick and wily wordsmith David Blake. He is a sly one and I adore his underhanded and cunning craftiness for unpredictable twists and turns. What guile! I am beyond impressed and yearning for more. I am enamored with the walking wounded and scruffy DCI Tanner.
'I’ve never been much for lounging about in bed.’ ‘Not even after being shot at point-blank range?’ ‘It was only a sawn-off shotgun. Had it been a bazooka, I’d have probably stayed till after lunch.’
My Review:
Woohoo, another home run for the slick and wily wordsmith David Blake. He is a sly one and I adore his underhanded and cunning craftiness for unpredictable twists and turns. What guile! I am beyond impressed and yearning for more. I am enamored with the walking wounded and scruffy DCI Tanner.
April 9, 2021
I didn't remember (when I checked The Wherryman" out) that after reading St. Benet's, I had decided to move on from this series. I was totally grabbed by: "Four missing children, three murdered men, and the helm of a boat with a blood-red sail, hiding a secret only he can tell." As it turned out, it was a wee bit nice to revisit DI Tanner. He had left after Jenny was killed in the previous book, and sailed on his boat for nearly two years. This book begins when Tanner returns to the Broads, and on a boat near where Tanner's boat is moored, a man is discovered to have been murdered and his very young daughter is missing.
The Norfolk Broads has a very distinctive sense of place, and I love losing myself in its atmosphere. However! 1) Just like my complaint in St. Benet's, Tanner is once again moving at lightning speed at falling in love.🙄 2) This book had my other pet peeve in it when Tanner was injured and hospitalized. He awakens to discover his arm in a cast - yet he leaves the hospital the moment he awakens from the general anesthetic and carries on with solving the case.🙄🙄 3. No police force would allow or condone the behaviors described in this book.🙄🙄🙄
Lastly, if one more character had said "Er..." I was going to SCREAM. It might make a fun drinking game (A character said "Er..."! Everyone drink a shot!) although one might awaken the next morning with their arm in a cast and a hideous hangover.😂
The Norfolk Broads has a very distinctive sense of place, and I love losing myself in its atmosphere. However! 1) Just like my complaint in St. Benet's, Tanner is once again moving at lightning speed at falling in love.🙄 2) This book had my other pet peeve in it when Tanner was injured and hospitalized. He awakens to discover his arm in a cast - yet he leaves the hospital the moment he awakens from the general anesthetic and carries on with solving the case.🙄🙄 3. No police force would allow or condone the behaviors described in this book.🙄🙄🙄
Lastly, if one more character had said "Er..." I was going to SCREAM. It might make a fun drinking game (A character said "Er..."! Everyone drink a shot!) although one might awaken the next morning with their arm in a cast and a hideous hangover.😂
February 7, 2021
An enjoyable read and a good addition to the series. I think this has been my favourite one yet. Although a little more suspense in certain parts may have added to the drama, it was certainly a book that I didn't want to put down. I read it in just over a day and am looking forward to the next installment.
March 5, 2021
I have a soft spot for this writer and his way of making me feel part of Norfolk. His characters are most endearing and the plot was very cleverly concealed.
This is procedural mystery and I would recommend it and all David Blakes previous books. They are one of my go to easy but characterful reads.
This is procedural mystery and I would recommend it and all David Blakes previous books. They are one of my go to easy but characterful reads.
February 11, 2021
Having just finished Horsey Mere, I was delighted to move straight onto The Wherryman. I was desperate to see where DI tanner could possibly go after the events in Horsey Mere and I have to say, the two years spent at sea have allowed Blake to reinvent Tanner and provided scope for many future Tanner stories (which I am very pleased about). I think Tanner has evolved throughout the series and giving him space to evolve even more has worked well for him as a character.
When I read the prologue, I was hooked. Dark, unsettling and visceral I defy anyone to pot The Wherryman down for more than a few seconds after reading that. I had to catch my breath but then was straight back to it with a weird combination of trepidation and eeriness. If it started off with such a bang - where the hell was Blake going to take us next?
The storyline for The Wherryman is intriguing and creepy - just the sort of story I love - the idea of a mysterious man in a boat stealing children and then disappearing so abruptly is fascinatingly chilling and then there's the murders!
With Tanner newly co-opted back onto the team after his stint at sea, things have changed. With animosity between him and fellow DI Cooper resurfacing, tanner is not in for an easy ride. Seeing links in the crimes to his past life in the Met, Tanner is keen to follow the evidence and being a little more blase about procedure that he should he causes his boss some anxious moments.
Blake has introduced some new characters which will take the series forward and open up many new plot-lines.
Overall, this was an addictive read and I'm really fed up that I didn't manage to guess whodunnit or the motive (kicking myself as all the clues were there) . I love the fact that Blake isn't afraid to go to dark places and to take the time to weave complex plots that keep the reader hooked. All the stars from me!
When I read the prologue, I was hooked. Dark, unsettling and visceral I defy anyone to pot The Wherryman down for more than a few seconds after reading that. I had to catch my breath but then was straight back to it with a weird combination of trepidation and eeriness. If it started off with such a bang - where the hell was Blake going to take us next?
The storyline for The Wherryman is intriguing and creepy - just the sort of story I love - the idea of a mysterious man in a boat stealing children and then disappearing so abruptly is fascinatingly chilling and then there's the murders!
With Tanner newly co-opted back onto the team after his stint at sea, things have changed. With animosity between him and fellow DI Cooper resurfacing, tanner is not in for an easy ride. Seeing links in the crimes to his past life in the Met, Tanner is keen to follow the evidence and being a little more blase about procedure that he should he causes his boss some anxious moments.
Blake has introduced some new characters which will take the series forward and open up many new plot-lines.
Overall, this was an addictive read and I'm really fed up that I didn't manage to guess whodunnit or the motive (kicking myself as all the clues were there) . I love the fact that Blake isn't afraid to go to dark places and to take the time to weave complex plots that keep the reader hooked. All the stars from me!
March 22, 2021
Too much arguing. Like school kids. I didn’t like it. Not enough character development.
June 17, 2021
A brilliant comeback to the Norfolk Broads and DI Tanner series from David Blake. Immersed in the grief of the death of his fiancee, DI Tanner is out of action for two years sailing in the Mediterranean. As soon as he moors at Norfolk Broads, he is drawn into a mysterious case of missing children and at the same time adults being murdered, with witnesses seeing only an old wooden boat with a blood-red sail cruising past the crime scene. Having accepted a short-term contract back with his police force due to financial obligations, Tanner delves into the case files. While there were quite a few new identities in this edition, it was equally exciting to invoke the recollections of some old characters, mainly DCI Forrester, Vicky, Sally, and DI Cooper who has now assumed the new role of SIO in this case. The professional animosity between Cooper and Tanner was evident throughout the investigation, but finally, it was the brilliant and punctilious scrutiny, the temperament that led to DI Tanner being able to unmask the perpetrator and reveal the motive behind these crimes. Broads Ranger, Christine is a new character in the plot and fresh chemistry appears to be brewing between her and Tanner and therefore, can hope to see more of her in the forthcoming editions. An exhilarating storyline coupled with twists and turns that rivets the reader onto their seats. A long wait for the next one in the series.
February 4, 2021
First children go missing, abducted by a mysterious being the press have named The Wherryman. Later an adult is murdered at the same time as a child disappears. Things are more complicated than they seem. Tanner is back – on a short term contract – after sailing in the Med to sooth his sorrows. He’s immediately sucked back in. The Broads, as always, make a beautiful backdrop to some of the nastier sides of human nature. This story is exciting and the pace doesn’t let up. It’s another great episode in this continuing Norfolk saga. Long may it flourish!
February 4, 2021
Welcome back John Tanner. What a great addition to the Norfolk Broads series this book is, I read it in a day. After sailing for 2 years after the death of his fiancé, Tanner arrives back and is involved in a murder and child abduction straight away. Lots of the old characters are back and a few new ones, I really liked the character of Christine and hope that we get to read more of her in future books. My only problem was seeing that we have to wait until January for the next book. Please write faster Mr Blake.....
February 8, 2021
What better way to spend a snowy Sunday than catching up with my old friend DCI Tanner.
I have to admit I was a sceptic after the last gripping read in this series - would it ever be the same? Well David Blake surpassed all expectations in this book and has made me fall in love with both old and new characters again. I love this series and cannot wait for the next one. I am hooked!
This book (as do all in this series) have gripping storylines that keep you guessing til the end as well as characters that you learn to love! Thank you for creating this series!
I have to admit I was a sceptic after the last gripping read in this series - would it ever be the same? Well David Blake surpassed all expectations in this book and has made me fall in love with both old and new characters again. I love this series and cannot wait for the next one. I am hooked!
This book (as do all in this series) have gripping storylines that keep you guessing til the end as well as characters that you learn to love! Thank you for creating this series!
February 13, 2021
Great series
I started with Broadlands., the first booking the series. Well-written with interesting charcterisations
I learned to sail, and had several boating holidays on the Norfolk Broads and the book brought back many good memories. Ideas the next four books in the series with great pleasure and was delighted to find book six, The Wherryman. which kept up the high standard. Only sorry I have to wait until next February for the next book in the series. Well done, David Blake!
Vic Bradbury
I started with Broadlands., the first booking the series. Well-written with interesting charcterisations
I learned to sail, and had several boating holidays on the Norfolk Broads and the book brought back many good memories. Ideas the next four books in the series with great pleasure and was delighted to find book six, The Wherryman. which kept up the high standard. Only sorry I have to wait until next February for the next book in the series. Well done, David Blake!
Vic Bradbury
February 8, 2021
Worth the wait
When you find an author you like it's always a pleasure to read his/her latest book. I looked forward to The Wherryman with a great deal of excitement and it didn't dissappoint. The only problem is, of course, that you read the book very quickly so the pleasure is soon over but you then have the anticipation of waiting for the next in the series! If you love the Broads as much as me and enjoy a cracking read then this is for you.
When you find an author you like it's always a pleasure to read his/her latest book. I looked forward to The Wherryman with a great deal of excitement and it didn't dissappoint. The only problem is, of course, that you read the book very quickly so the pleasure is soon over but you then have the anticipation of waiting for the next in the series! If you love the Broads as much as me and enjoy a cracking read then this is for you.
February 16, 2021
A gripping thriller
The twists and turns had me unable to wait for my nightly read, picking the book up during the day. Good rounded characters with lots of local colour. The descriptions of the Broads had me googling place names on maps, always a good sign that I'm invested in the story.
The twists and turns had me unable to wait for my nightly read, picking the book up during the day. Good rounded characters with lots of local colour. The descriptions of the Broads had me googling place names on maps, always a good sign that I'm invested in the story.
February 2, 2021
Great read
I really enjoyed reading The Wherryman..I have enjoyed all the DI Tanner books..I was very sad when Jenny died in Horsey Mere..so it was with some trepidation I started reading The Wherryman but all was well I'm now waiting impatiently for next book.
I really enjoyed reading The Wherryman..I have enjoyed all the DI Tanner books..I was very sad when Jenny died in Horsey Mere..so it was with some trepidation I started reading The Wherryman but all was well I'm now waiting impatiently for next book.
February 2, 2021
Another great read ..... if you love Norfolk and like a
Who done it this is for you.
Might be best to read the series as it will make more sense.... but this book is ok as a stand alone.
Warning...... once started it’s hard to stop reading this....
I’m looking forward to the next book....
Who done it this is for you.
Might be best to read the series as it will make more sense.... but this book is ok as a stand alone.
Warning...... once started it’s hard to stop reading this....
I’m looking forward to the next book....
February 2, 2021
The Wherryman
children going missing taken from holiday hire boats and a series of horrendous murders , are they connected to the arrival of a certain London based villian's arrival in the area?
children going missing taken from holiday hire boats and a series of horrendous murders , are they connected to the arrival of a certain London based villian's arrival in the area?
February 4, 2021
Another exciting story
The books are chilling and tackle some very difficult subjects, the characters are so very real. These books take you on a real whodunit journey. Read in one sitting 🚢
The books are chilling and tackle some very difficult subjects, the characters are so very real. These books take you on a real whodunit journey. Read in one sitting 🚢
February 7, 2021
This book was a great return to the series. It was fast paced, with twists and turns that really had me thinking again about the clues we’d been given. Once I’d picked it up I couldn’t put it down, so make sure you’ve got a while to sit and enjoy it!
February 2, 2021
First class novel again, so many twists and turns and again not until near the end does does the outcome become clear.
February 3, 2021
Loved it
Couldn't wait for the release, then read it in two sittings, love the new characters, keep them coming, can't wait xx
Couldn't wait for the release, then read it in two sittings, love the new characters, keep them coming, can't wait xx
February 4, 2021
Like meeting an old friend
Thrilled to meet John Tanner again. Story ran at a fast pace and I was sorry when it ended. Looking forward to the next book.
Thrilled to meet John Tanner again. Story ran at a fast pace and I was sorry when it ended. Looking forward to the next book.
February 11, 2021
I have enjoyed all the books in David Blake's DCI John Tanner series and The Wherryman is no exception. It flows seamlessly and it had me engrossed from the beginning. Tanner is back in the Norfolk Broads after 2 years away in his boat and is drawn into a case of abducted children. A great read.
February 13, 2021
Plot twister
A great read. David Blake never fails to develop his characters and plot lines in order for the reader to become immersed in the story.
A great read. David Blake never fails to develop his characters and plot lines in order for the reader to become immersed in the story.
February 14, 2021
The wherryman
Another fantastic read,really great story had a really good twist at the end which I didn't expect, looking forward to the next one thankyou
Another fantastic read,really great story had a really good twist at the end which I didn't expect, looking forward to the next one thankyou
February 14, 2021
Great author, good characters, clever crimes!
September 6, 2025
Haven’t read one of this series before (not sure why I started with book 6 😂) but quite enjoyed it. It was gritty in places and definitely had a few twists.
February 5, 2021
A brilliant read!
Gripped from the start, this book had it all - well paced, a great story line and a good ending!
Gripped from the start, this book had it all - well paced, a great story line and a good ending!
February 5, 2021
I have enjoyed all of this series so far.i was very sad when his Fiance died but The Wherryman was uplifting and a damn good story
Can't wait for the next one
Can't wait for the next one
February 6, 2021
What a great read.. hard to put down!
Am planning to read Storm Force next!!
Love David Blake!!
Am planning to read Storm Force next!!
Love David Blake!!
February 10, 2021
Spellbinding!
Another brilliant read. Such a tantalising plot, so many twists and turns, kept me guessing till the end. All the places mentioned remind me of my lovely holidays on the broads.
Another brilliant read. Such a tantalising plot, so many twists and turns, kept me guessing till the end. All the places mentioned remind me of my lovely holidays on the broads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews