The Devil's List

A celebrated public figure dies of an apparent heart attack.The post-mortem is flawless.The evidence is nonexistent.But Detective Constable Sid Thorpe knows one thing with absolute certainty.It was murder.When a second body is found with a sheet of centuries-old parchment hidden inside its mouth, the investigation takes a chilling turn. The list written on the parchment contains the names of powerful people... and Thorpe's own.Someone knows how he thinks.Someone has been watching him.As the trail leads to a forgotten investigation buried deep within Scotland Yard, Thorpe uncovers a truth that has remained hidden for decades-one capable of destroying lives long after the crime itself.Some investigations solve murders.Others uncover the cost of surviving them.A gripping British crime thriller about justice, memory and redemption, introducing Detective Constable Sid Thorpe. Blake Patrick brings nearly three decades of frontline police experience to the literary world. Serving as a bastion of law and order in the UK for 29 years, Blake dedicated his career to the pursuit of justice, not only as a detective unravelling the intricate webs of criminal minds but also as a Family Liaison Officer, providing a compassionate bridge between the force and the families touched by tragedy and crime.Retiring the badge, Blake has since brandished the pen, channelling years of amassed knowledge, humanity, and street-smart wisdom into writing. Although this passion for storytelling was always a flickering flame throughout their policing career, it has only recently roared to life with the completion and publication of their works. This newfound courage to share stories comes from the very essence of a life spent in service to others and a personal milestone of triumph over the daunting vulnerability of creative expression.Blake's works are a unique blend of gritty reality and the rich, complex tapestry of human emotion, informed by an intimate understanding of crime's impact on people and society. Each narrative is not only an act of exploration but also a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, often exploring themes that resonate deeply with readers from all walks of life.Married for 39 years, Blake's personal life is as rich and fulfilling as their professional one. Together with their spouse, they have nurtured a family that has grown to include two children and three grandchildren, creating a strong, loving foundation that has undoubtedly influenced Blake's writing. Often, it's within the animated discussions and suggestions from these family members that seeds for stories are planted.Whether it's delving into subjects of personal intrigue or taking up the gauntlet thrown by a family member's curiosity, Blake approaches writing with the same fervour and commitment once reserved for solving cases. Readers can expect a journey through pages that not only enthral but also enlighten, crafted by someone who has not only observed life from the sidelines but has been an active participant in its most challenging arenas.Blake's books promise to be a sanctuary where the thrill of the chase, the depth of human connection, and the subtleties of life's intricate narratives converge.