When DCI Jim Tyler believes he has uncovered evidence of deep rooted corruption in the police department, his thirst for justice and loathing of authority combine in a deadly cocktail that threatens to destroy him.
A police officer is found dead in a Staffordshire park. It looks like suicide. DCI Tyler and DS Mills want to speak to the dead officer’s partner, a bent copper recently thrown off the force. Then the partner is found dead in almost the same location. It appears to be another suicide.
Tyler believes there’s a bigger story and digs deeper, upsetting half of the local police force into the bargain, until he is finally ordered to close the case. Mills fears his colleague’s reluctance to pull out reveals a personal agenda, and a rift develops between the detectives.
But Tyler remains determined to dig down to the bottom, in spite of the pressure on him from the top ... and regardless of the consequences.
Mark writes in a number of genres, including detective crime fiction, psychological thrillers, and Gothic fantasy.
He is the author of the popular Tyler & Mills detective crime series set in Staffordshire in the noughties. RED IS THE COLOUR was shortlisted for the 2018 Arnold Bennett Prize and begins with the grim discovery of a schoolboy who disappeared thirty years earlier. BLUE MURDER involves a missing singer and a murdered guitarist, elevating an obscure band to sudden fame and fortune. THE DEVIL WORE BLACK unveils the mystery of a crucified priest. THE SMELL OF COPPER, finds Tyler out on a limb as the detectives uncover police corruption. SCARLET RIBBONS investigates the brutal murder of a sex worker. The latest book in the series, BLOOD ORANGE, concerns the death of a local greengrocer. All the books can be read as standalone crime novels.
Other detective mysteries include THE BATHROOM MURDERS. A series of women are found hacked to death while taking a shower. This is the first in a new series set in Manchester, featuring female detective Charlie Reed and her sidekick Paul Rigsby.
TWIST has the eponymous private investigator returning, against his better judgement, to the city of nightmares to look into the strange case of a dead philosophy student.
THE MAN UPSTAIRS introduces hard boiled Frank Miller, discovering he’s a fictional detective and that his author is plotting to kill him. This is the first in a series of crime fantasy novels, and the second book in the series has now been published: THE POISONED EYE OF A LOVING GOD,
Mark also writes psychological thrillers. SILVER finds journalist and crime writer Nick Slater obsessed with an unpublished manuscript that a best-selling author was working on when she was murdered, and which her family refuse to publish.
SEXTET explores the twisted rivalry between twin sisters, the weird games they played as children, and the rising murder rate in a small English town.
COFFIN MAKER is a Gothic tale. Death is sent two apprentices amid warnings from an out-of-favour priest that the devil has arrived on Earth.
PAINTED FIRE finds a writer travelling to America’s West Coast in a desperate bid to find a cure for a baffling illness afflicting his wife. An anonymous benefactor has offered to help, but at what price?
This is the first book of Mark L Fowler’s that I have read and it was easy enough to follow the story as a stand alone book.
The book follows DCI Tyler and DS Mills as they are called to investigate an apparent suicide. There are many twists and turns in this book and it keeps you guessing and suspecting who is involved. I don’t want to say to much about the story for spoiling it for others.
I enjoyed the story and it reminded me in places of Line of Duty. I would recommend this book to anyone whether you have read the first books in the series or you are new to Mark L Fowler.
Thank you to Mark L Fowler for an advanced copy of the book.
This is the first of this author’s books I’ve read. Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone as I have. The characters of Mills and Tyler are tangible and incredibly believable. They have a strong connection. The main subject of police corruption is strong all the way through the story, it’s an easy going read but always keeps you invested and wanting to keep reading. I will be heading back to read the others before this in the series as I would genuinely like to know where their story starts and hope to get to know where their story goes in the end. Good heartfelt warm book that just keeps you reading.
Wasn’t sure whether this would grab me at first, however sitting comfortably I soon found I wanted to find out what happens next and didn’t want to put it down. Loved the characters especially Mills. If you liked line of duty then you will enjoy this book. I would recommend it.
I really enjoy reading a local set novel, and Mark Fowler's Stoke set Tyler and Mills series always brings a smile to my face. I was absolutely thrilled when he said he had brought the characters back for another outing. This time around they are faced with a case that on the surface seems like a relatively straightforward suicide, but one that is somewhat personal to the pair as the victim, Miriam Blake, is one of their own.
I really enjoyed the way in which the author has introduced a sense of mystery to this novel. Everything about the case bears the hallmarks of a suicide, but something about it doesn't sit well with Tyler. The more questions he asks, the more certain he becomes that there is something he is not seeing, which adds conflict to the story as it puts him in direct opposition with the power that be who would rather see the case closed. Tyler is a determined character, one who has an issue with authority, but one whose instincts have often proven true. His unwillingness to drop the case could ultimately cost him everything, but he's not the kind of character to let that stop him. And when Tyler cries foul, you tend to listen.
I love the partnership between Tyler and his DS, Danny Mills. There is a clear respect between them, even of they haven't always seen eye to eye, and a bond which extends beyond the pairing on investigations. Tyler is the often bitter chalk to Mills cheese, but they bounce off each other well and make for a great detective combo. And Mills passion for his beloved home city of Stoke really helps bring the setting and the character of the city to life. Throughout the book you can feel Mills' concern for Tyler, but also his unending loyalty to his boss. There is a great deal of banter between them too, which adds humour and lightness to an otherwise dark tale.
There is a great deal of melancholy in the story, as you would expect when it comes to the loss of a life, but more there is a sense of mystery. Spurred on by others, Tyler uncovers a spate of deaths in suspicious circumstances, from suicide to potential murder, and more than a whiff of corruption and cover up to match. But just how far the corruption goes is hard to see, and with Tyler's inherent distrust of those who wield the greatest power, whilst the main perpetrators of this crime may be obvious, there is enough misdirection to make us doubt even those we think we know best.
The pacing is good, the mystery strong enough to hold my attention. The ending really sees the sense of threat pick up, powering the story along to a shocking, but satisfying conclusion. If you like the Tyler and Mills series, then this is another great read, a story that might even put a long overdue smile on Tyler's face.
Tyler is definitely a determined police officer, and when he gets a case that seems like suicide, he believes there’s more to it and goes after the truth. The acts within the book are sensible and Tyler certainly doesn’t get everything all his own way, nor should he. Tyler isn’t a typical maverick, but he is more emotional, well desk thumpingly angry, than most. So, it’s nice to see that he had to face the fallout.
Mills also comes across as a fully rounded character, with a realistic family and interests outside of the home, which… well I’m not giving things away.
The investigation played out over a reasonable amount of time, though the behaviour of some of the higher-ranking officers left a little to be desired. It was difficult at times to see who was manipulating who, but it was good to see an officer with flaws. The final resolution worked out, but the body count actually left me feeling like that was too convenient, but it was still readable.
This is book four of the Tyler and Mills series, so I have to ask if I’ve missed anything by not having read the previous books, and the answer is, no I don’t think I have. There are light references to previous cases and Tyler’s history but there was enough in the book for the references to work without making the reader feel that they were missing out.
Tyler and Mills are called to the scene of an unexplained suicide of one of their colleagues. He believes there's more to it than meets the eye but is urged to drop it by his superiors, but he can't leave it alone. Will he get to the bottom of it or will he lose everything he holds dear?
The Smell of Copper is a British set police procedural with the theme of police corruption as its theme.
This is the fourth in the Tyler and Mills series, but it can easily be read as a standalone.
I love the pairing of Tyler and Mills. They're a bit like chalk and cheese. Tyler is single, stubborn, with a chip on his shoulder and when he gets fixated on something, there's no stopping him. Mills, on the other hand, is happily married and settled, a much more laid back copper but still does his job well.
I also enjoy the setting of Stoke. It's not a place I know a great deal about, so I enjoyed the brief insights we get about the city throughout the book.
I'll be honest, the story dragged out a little long for me. My interest wavered a bit in the middle, but I was brought back in by the tense and satisfying ending.
The Smell of Copper is a solid police procedural is a must if you love this genre.
When a serving police officer is found dead, it is believed that she committed suicide. Her ex partner was a bent copper and DCI Jim Tyler and DS Danny Mills need to speak to him. He is soon found dead too, close to where his ex was found, another suicide.
DCI Tyler is told to close the case but he believes there is more to the story and starts an unofficial investigation on the side.
This is an intriguing story with plenty of twists to keep you guessing just what’s gone on! I liked both Jim and Danny’s characters and felt a bit sorry for Chief Superintendent Berlin’s as Tyler is a handful!
Although this is part of a series, it can certainly be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to going back and reading the others.
Having not read anything by Mark Fowler before I was very intrigued to read Marks work and I was not disappointed. The main characters, Jim Tyler and Danny Mills make a great team. Mark writes his characters with depth and you get a real insight into their mindset. When I read a book, I like to envisage the area where the book is set and Mark conveys this brilliantly. The plot is exceptionally well written and there is a good amount of substance within and it will keep you guessing all the way through. If you are looking for a book that will draw you in and keep you up reading all hours, then this is the one for you.. It can be read as a stand alone but you will definitely want to read the rest in the series, just like I did. Enjoy!
How is Mark Fowler and his Tyler and Mills series not #1 on every ‘best crime thriller’ list, ever? The Smell of Copper is book 4 in the series but is an excellent standalone read.
DCI Tyler is a passionate, complex, conflicted character and whilst these unique traits do bring successful conclusions to investigation against all odds, they can, all too often, end up severely clashing with the structured and hierarchical world of the police establishment.
This is the case in The Smell of Copper. Neither his partner, and friend, DS Danny Mills nor his boss, are in synch with the DCI who believes with an overwhelming conviction that the suicides of 2 former police offers is more than just a coincidence. And that the bigger story is internal corruption within the force itself.
His additional problem is, Tyler has a troubled past and is already on a knife edge having been transferred to the ‘wilds of Staffordshire’ from his position in London after coming into conflict with those in authority. He is living under the shadow of one wrong step and he’s out of the force altogether.
What I believe to be unique to Mark Fowler’s writing is his ability to perfectly blend a compelling crime thriller with the human turmoil we all suffer when facing our fears. As a result, I felt wholly invested in the plot and the characters involved.
You’d be missing a gem if you didn’t read The Smell of Copper, the Tyler and Mills series a must.
Firstly I must say thank you for the Beta copy I received from Mark. I must say how happy this has made me as I have now discovered a new police procedural series. Saying that, although this is the fourth in the series, it works perfectly well as a stand alone. I really enjoyed the character of Tyler, despite all the angst he carries around. I was eager to find out more of his back story from the previous books which took place in London. The two main characters were immediately likeable, and Tyler had a really good relationship with Danny Mills his sidekick. It was an easy camaraderie with respect on both sides. I was glad to have some humour in the book, which helped offset the frustration I was feeling by the failures within the police force. It definitely needed some light relief. The book had an accomplished feel to it, and it was obvious the author was happy and satisfied with his characters. The flaws they had made them human and I would definitely recommend this book.
First off I would give this 3.5 stars if it was an option. This is a first for me with this series, and though it’s the fourth in the series I’m not sure if I would have been better reading the previous books or not, but I feel it was a good read without having background information previous books usually give. Cosy crime police procedural and I warmed to the partnership of Tyler and Mills and thought their working relationship came across well in the story. I won’t write too much about the storyline as I feel this is the job of the blurb. A small hiccup for me hence the 3 star review not four star, somewhere over half way in I was starting to lose the plot of the storyline a little and had to take a minute and refresh myself of what was happening with regards to the who, why and when. Overall a good read and I’m interested to see where it started for our two police officers.
In this fourth in the Jim Tyler and Danny Mills series, we get to know the two detectives better on a personal level. We also discover why Tyler isn’t convinced that two recent deaths were simple suicides. It’s a complex story and at times Tyler isn’t sure who he can trust. He’s asked to take leave but he can’t ignore the tingling feeling that something’s very wrong. This is my favourite of the series. At about this stage, we know enough background to predict how the characters will act, but they throw a few surprises. Danny’s diet is one! Another great episode in a series I’ve followed from the start.
This is my first novel read by author Mark Fowler. It is the fourth book in a series but read well as a standalone. I found that reintroducing of characters and back story, which is necessary in a series at perfect length and detail. For me, the first third of the book was slow-moving and redundant with details of case(s). Once it picked up pace, the overall storyline and solving of crime were great. I enjoyed the character interactions. Would I read another in this series? Absolutely.
Book 4 in the Jim Tyler and Danny Mills series. DI Tyler is not convinced the deaths of 2 police officers are suicide. He wants to delve deeper into the investigation but powers above want it closed. I thoroughly enjoyed the interaction between the two main characters, the humour and their concern for one another. A cleverly woven plot with an array of suspects. A well written book which flowed well
We're now beginning to know a bit more about Tyler. He is a character whose back story has made him the man he is today. Mills is also developing nicely. I would like to see more of a double act rather than each doing his own thing and it paying off. Good story.
This is a first for me with this author and it is always exciting when you don’t know what to expect. Sometimes, of course, it can be a huge let down but in this case I was not disappointed. The book is perfect as a stand alone but I am looking forward to reading the previous books in the series. Our protagonist, Jim Tyler, is a complex and not always likeable character but his vulnerability and high moral standards make up for that and I felt the empathy you absolutely have to feel for the main character if you want them to succeed. It is these characteristics that make his life so difficult in a career that absolutely depends on towing the line and respecting the hierarchy. Mark Fowler does not pull any punches in his opinion of what could be perceived as failings in the police. Tyler’s sidekick, Danny Mills, happily married with children and wishing the same for his sometimes difficult boss is the perfect foil for this flawed but sympathetic character.
It is a complicated plot with a lot of threads and characters and it certainly kept me on my toes but so worth the effort as it draws to a dramatic, nail biting conclusion. Almost right to the last page you are guessing who to trust, just as Tyler and Mills are.
This is the fourth book in the series but could be read as a standalone.
DCI Tyler is a bit suspicious when called out to the suicide of a policewoman, especially when her ex turns out to be a bent cop. When the body of the ex is found, again as a suicide, his suspicions are heightened even more. Of course, when he is warned off investigating any further, he is determined to dig deeper.
I loved the storyline here. The constant questioning of who can be trusted or not, how high up does the corruption go, if there is further corruption, all lends itself to the intense nature of the book. I was totally hooked from the start.
I love the relationship between Tyler and Mills. They are so different yet form a great team. Despite the deaths, corruption and gang involvement, there is still time for some humour especially with Mills and his wife's determination to have him on a diet.
All in all, a great story and I am so glad the decision was made to proceed further with this series. I have read the first book and will definitely read the others now.