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Liam Dempsey #2
The Night is Deep
Though he’s still tormented by his brother’s murder and the accident that ended his career, ex-homicide detective Liam Dempsey is trying to move on. His girlfriend and their adopted son are the best things that ever happened to him—and being a police liaison is the next best thing to being back on the force. But when an old friend asks for his help, Liam is thrust into a harrowing investigation that reawakens his darkest personal demons.
A politician has been violently attacked, and his wife is kidnapped for ransom. But as police mobilize to track the victim and trap her abductor, the case takes a chilling turn from extortion to grisly murder. Whoever snatched Valerie Farrow wants blood and money—and they’re brutally collecting.
Working with, and against, the police, Liam is forced to dig deep to expose the ugly truth—even if it means digging his own grave in the process.
A politician has been violently attacked, and his wife is kidnapped for ransom. But as police mobilize to track the victim and trap her abductor, the case takes a chilling turn from extortion to grisly murder. Whoever snatched Valerie Farrow wants blood and money—and they’re brutally collecting.
Working with, and against, the police, Liam is forced to dig deep to expose the ugly truth—even if it means digging his own grave in the process.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2016
806 people are currently reading
893 people want to read
About the author
Joe Hart
43books1,266followersJoe Hart is the Edgar Award-winning and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of seventeen novels including The River Is Dark, Obscura, The Last Girl, and Or Else. His work has been optioned for film and translated into eight languages. He lives with his family in Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
October 6, 2016
Liam Dempsey used to be a policeman, but after accidently killing a woman and her child he gave up his career and now works as a police consultant. His old university friend Owen, now a politician, has asked for his help in finding his missing wife Valerie. Valerie is the love of Owen's life, he wants her back and he wants Liam to find her. Who has Valerie and what do they want? Will Liam find her before it is too late, or is there something else at play here?
I enjoyed this book, the characters were strong, likeable and realistic. I did not realise this is part of a series and I will look out for more books from this author.
I enjoyed this book, the characters were strong, likeable and realistic. I did not realise this is part of a series and I will look out for more books from this author.
June 7, 2016
Liam Dempsey is no longer a detective. After accidentally killing an innocent pregnant woman, he turned in his badge. These days he’s living with his girlfriend and their adopted son. He also does some Private Investigations and is a Consultant for the Homicide Department.
Liam gets a call from an old friend he hasn’t seen or talked to in several years. A budding politician, he begs Liam to come help .. he was attacked and his wife has disappeared.
The detective in charge of the investigation is not exactly gung-ho on having a non-cop thrust upon her, but is willing to work with him as long as he doesn’t interfere. Of course, the first thing Liam does is interfere. A ransom has been demanded for the wife.
The rescue attempt has failed � and now it’s not only a kidnapping. Bodies are being mutilated and murdered � and they all have one thing in common. They all went to the same college, including Liam’s friend and his wife.
This is a well-written mystery. Liam is a great character .. lots of layers to peel back to see the real man. I also really enjoyed the female detective and her interaction with Liam, at times contentious, at other times, humorous.
There were several suspects, but then they all began dying off, one by one. I was totally surprised by the ending.
I look forward to seeing more of this series.
Many thanks to the author / Thomas & Mercer / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Liam gets a call from an old friend he hasn’t seen or talked to in several years. A budding politician, he begs Liam to come help .. he was attacked and his wife has disappeared.
The detective in charge of the investigation is not exactly gung-ho on having a non-cop thrust upon her, but is willing to work with him as long as he doesn’t interfere. Of course, the first thing Liam does is interfere. A ransom has been demanded for the wife.
The rescue attempt has failed � and now it’s not only a kidnapping. Bodies are being mutilated and murdered � and they all have one thing in common. They all went to the same college, including Liam’s friend and his wife.
This is a well-written mystery. Liam is a great character .. lots of layers to peel back to see the real man. I also really enjoyed the female detective and her interaction with Liam, at times contentious, at other times, humorous.
There were several suspects, but then they all began dying off, one by one. I was totally surprised by the ending.
I look forward to seeing more of this series.
Many thanks to the author / Thomas & Mercer / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
August 10, 2020
Funny, when I started reading this book, I kept feeling as though these characters were very familiar. That’s when I had my aah-ha moment. I read the first book in the Liam Dempsey series, The River is Dark. I absolutely loved the first book in this installment, and I’m even more blown away with this second part in the series.
Police Consultant, Liam Dempsey, has come a long way since being enthralled in his brother’s and sister’s-in-law murders. He has a beautiful girlfriend named Dani and they have adopted a child named Eric. Life is definitely looking up for the ex-homicide detective, but as with anything, the passion for police work grows extremely deep in Liam’s soul.
Even though he isn’t technically a police detective anymore, that detective aspect of his life is never too far behind. He receives a call from an old college buddy who has since thrown his hat in the political arena, finds himself in the middle of a horrible kidnapping. He knows there isn’t anyone else who can help him get his wife back and who is more determined to do what is right and solve this case than Liam Dempsey.
Liam is enjoying his newfound life with Dani and Eric, and even though he loves detective work, he’s torn between leaving his family to take on another long case. Problem is, Owen did Liam a solid back in the day, and he feels obligated to at least look into his case and see what he can shake loose.
Well, when Liam begins barking up the murderer’s tree, the fallen leaves of hard truths and unbelievable circumstances come raining down on the very head that needs to stay clear and focused in order to solve this case. All of what Liam believes in comes into question. Everyone wants to know what happened to Valerie Farrow, Owen’s wife, but nothing seems to be concrete, that is, until Liam continues to keep digging. It would appear that the fates have a nasty way of throwing its weight around, and poor Liam is always caught off guard trying to put the pieces back together again. And trust me, readers, when you start to investigate the clues along with Liam, what you’re left with will most certainly shock you.
The Sexy Nerd gives The Night is Deep five stars and counting. This is a great series. Although I have to say, Hart puts Liam through some particular hell. Sometimes I can’t imagine how Liam lives to investigate another day. The things his body goes through dealing with the sick and twisted is mind boggling, but Liam is a tough guy and I love it. Hart’s writing is skillfully mastered and keeps the reader front and center throughout the entire story. If you haven’t started the series, I’d highly suggest you do. But, this book is a standalone, so you’ll be fine to read it out of order.
Please make sure you get this book and add to your to-read shelf. It’s a goodie!
Police Consultant, Liam Dempsey, has come a long way since being enthralled in his brother’s and sister’s-in-law murders. He has a beautiful girlfriend named Dani and they have adopted a child named Eric. Life is definitely looking up for the ex-homicide detective, but as with anything, the passion for police work grows extremely deep in Liam’s soul.
Even though he isn’t technically a police detective anymore, that detective aspect of his life is never too far behind. He receives a call from an old college buddy who has since thrown his hat in the political arena, finds himself in the middle of a horrible kidnapping. He knows there isn’t anyone else who can help him get his wife back and who is more determined to do what is right and solve this case than Liam Dempsey.
Liam is enjoying his newfound life with Dani and Eric, and even though he loves detective work, he’s torn between leaving his family to take on another long case. Problem is, Owen did Liam a solid back in the day, and he feels obligated to at least look into his case and see what he can shake loose.
Well, when Liam begins barking up the murderer’s tree, the fallen leaves of hard truths and unbelievable circumstances come raining down on the very head that needs to stay clear and focused in order to solve this case. All of what Liam believes in comes into question. Everyone wants to know what happened to Valerie Farrow, Owen’s wife, but nothing seems to be concrete, that is, until Liam continues to keep digging. It would appear that the fates have a nasty way of throwing its weight around, and poor Liam is always caught off guard trying to put the pieces back together again. And trust me, readers, when you start to investigate the clues along with Liam, what you’re left with will most certainly shock you.
The Sexy Nerd gives The Night is Deep five stars and counting. This is a great series. Although I have to say, Hart puts Liam through some particular hell. Sometimes I can’t imagine how Liam lives to investigate another day. The things his body goes through dealing with the sick and twisted is mind boggling, but Liam is a tough guy and I love it. Hart’s writing is skillfully mastered and keeps the reader front and center throughout the entire story. If you haven’t started the series, I’d highly suggest you do. But, this book is a standalone, so you’ll be fine to read it out of order.
Please make sure you get this book and add to your to-read shelf. It’s a goodie!
June 28, 2016
I love Joe Hart's books and now I love the Liam Dempsey character. He has that right from wrong quality that makes for a good read when the battle is between doing what is right and what you feel would be justified. Liam Dempsey is called by a friend to help with the abduction of his wife who is being held for ransom. But then the bodies start to turn up and these deaths seem to be linked to the wife's sister's suicide. Can Liam help find the killer before his friend's wife is next. As he digs deeper into this case things are not as they seem and Liam may just be next. Mean while back at home his girlfriend and newly adopted son are missing him and his girlfriend has been accosted in the park while their son is playing with friends. This only makes him want to solve the case and get home as quickly as possible. I would like to thank the Publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
May 31, 2022
A great second story of this series. I know I’m late to the party but I enjoyed it and the investigation was engaging and suspenseful, especially the one on his own.
4.5 stars
KU read
4.5 stars
KU read
August 29, 2022
I wish there was a book 3 😞
June 8, 2017
This second book about Liam Dempsey was a little more brutal than the other one. I mean, the other one had Liam’s brother being cut into pieces but this one was just so cruel and bloody in the killing. LOL, I have to wonder about authors� minds when I read this kind of story. Not that it’ll stop me from reading them.
This was about a young woman who was killed 16 years before but the killer just kept looking into it until the killer found out for sure that it had been murder and not suicide, as the coroner called it and now the kidnapping of her sister. Then the killer killed the 4 men responsible. Two of the killings were killed in a really disgusting ways. And two different killings were totally unnecessary as they had nothing to do with the girl dying 16 years ago. There were twists and turns in this and I was surprised at who the killer turned out to be.
I did like Liam but he wasn’t much of a hero. He was always losing his gun or getting the hell beat out of him (or run over by his own truck) BUT he had a way of solving the puzzles that no one else did, so there was that.
There was only fade-to-black sex and the F-Bomb was used 41 times.
As to the narration: Eric G. Dove was his usual awesome self. Men, women and emotions were nearly perfect.
August 3, 2016
I felt like this was a little slow in the beginning but it was still incredibly hard to put down. The last half/third was super gripping and really nice tied the whole plot together.
The twist at the end was fantastic as well. I really didn't see it coming at all.
I thought Liam, Dani and Eric were such a lovely little family and I felt really attached to their characters. I also liked Perring's development throughout the book too.
My only downfall was that in some places, I felt like the story was too descriptive or more than it needed to be meaning that I did skim over a few paragraphs because I felt like they were pretty unnecessary.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The twist at the end was fantastic as well. I really didn't see it coming at all.
I thought Liam, Dani and Eric were such a lovely little family and I felt really attached to their characters. I also liked Perring's development throughout the book too.
My only downfall was that in some places, I felt like the story was too descriptive or more than it needed to be meaning that I did skim over a few paragraphs because I felt like they were pretty unnecessary.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2017
Joe Hart, you've developed into a fine author since I read your first books written about your cattle ranch!!
You can't help but live every step of this novel that Liam Dempsey takes. The writing is so realistic, it is almost poetic in spite of the gore and horrific circumstances it describes. And the ending! I didn't have a clue! Well done! When is Liam Dempsey #3 coming? I have only one criticism and it's minor. You need a grammar editor! That's it. Again I ask, where's #3?
You can't help but live every step of this novel that Liam Dempsey takes. The writing is so realistic, it is almost poetic in spite of the gore and horrific circumstances it describes. And the ending! I didn't have a clue! Well done! When is Liam Dempsey #3 coming? I have only one criticism and it's minor. You need a grammar editor! That's it. Again I ask, where's #3?
July 8, 2017
Two-haiku review:
Old friend calls Liam
Wife kidnapped, wants Liam's help
Then murders begin
Well developed plot
Character becomes deeper
Complete surprise end
Old friend calls Liam
Wife kidnapped, wants Liam's help
Then murders begin
Well developed plot
Character becomes deeper
Complete surprise end
May 21, 2024
DNF. Started this book because I enjoyed the first one, but I but hate when white authors, use black trauma fueled by racism, white supremacy, and stereotypes as a plot device. Black characters are never written with nuance and never explored and developed beyond being exploited. Leave us out of your books. Dixon‘s character was so poorly written and his dialogue was abhorrent. The way he’s inserted into the story was a “choice”�. Like there needed to be a way to make him a villain.
So of course, Dixon is a poor black man from a “broken home� (problematic term) who dates a rich white girl whose racist, father disapproves. 🙄🙄 it doesn’t get any more stereotypical than this. When his girlfriend writes about him and her diary, it’s cringe, embarrassing, and fetishizing. A mess!😒
The way Dixon’s character was developed with lazy awful stereotypes was ridiculous af. Worst part was using the word ni$$er in the dialogue but i’m assuming the author thought it was ok because it was coming from Dixon‘s character who is Black. No! I can use it you cannot. Meet some actual Black people or find a black editor.
One more thing: At one point , Dixon’s character was held in a chokehold� So we’re forced to relieve a fatal act of police brutality.. What the everloving fuck?
So of course, Dixon is a poor black man from a “broken home� (problematic term) who dates a rich white girl whose racist, father disapproves. 🙄🙄 it doesn’t get any more stereotypical than this. When his girlfriend writes about him and her diary, it’s cringe, embarrassing, and fetishizing. A mess!😒
The way Dixon’s character was developed with lazy awful stereotypes was ridiculous af. Worst part was using the word ni$$er in the dialogue but i’m assuming the author thought it was ok because it was coming from Dixon‘s character who is Black. No! I can use it you cannot. Meet some actual Black people or find a black editor.
One more thing: At one point , Dixon’s character was held in a chokehold� So we’re forced to relieve a fatal act of police brutality.. What the everloving fuck?
June 15, 2016
3.5 stars. This is the second in a series by Joe Hart. I have not read the first book in a series, but I didn't feel out of the loop. I like Mr. Hart’s style. It's a nice clean style but with enough details to give you a good sense of people and place.
The characters are well developed. Liam is no one’s idea of a saint. He struggles with anger issues and isn't always successful in controlling himself. Not only is Liam fully fleshed out, so is Perring. You can just feel her frustration. I think any woman who has been a “manager� (which is what a lead detective is) can appreciate her. Hart also does a good job of blending in racism and how it plays out in both the community and the criminal process. With everything that has occurred in the news over the past year, it is especially poignant.
Unfortunately, there are several plot lines that just don't make sense. Why does Liam automatically assume the kidnapping is related to Valerie’s sister’s suicide? And I can see where Liam could be allowed to “consult� on the kidnapping of his friend’s wife. But to be allowed to a totally unrelated crime scene? I’m not sure if I’m getting jaded, but I really want more realistic plot lines.
Bottom line with any mystery - did you guess who the “villain� is? I had my suspicions but can't say I was convinced I was right until the end. And there were enough plot twists to keep my interest.
My thanks to netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book.
April 11, 2017
Excellent
I know Liam is not a cop although he was at one point and he still should be, he gets himself into some good scrapes but get out of them, fantastic read to those who like this sort of book, the book goes in great depth which the author does fantastically, couldn't but if down and need to find the next instalment, just fantastic.
I know Liam is not a cop although he was at one point and he still should be, he gets himself into some good scrapes but get out of them, fantastic read to those who like this sort of book, the book goes in great depth which the author does fantastically, couldn't but if down and need to find the next instalment, just fantastic.
June 17, 2016
Liam Dempsey is back!
After his brother's murder and the events that followed, Dempsey is now living with his girlfriend and their adopted son, working as a police consultant after give up his badge.
When Liam gets a call from an old friend whose wife, Valerie, has been kidnapped, the detective in Dempsey kicks in. He is warned by the officers dealing with the case not to get too involved, but that's not Dempsey's style. The case started off as a kidnapping for ransom but now with bodies racking up, Dempsey must find a way to work alongside the police to solve the case!
.... So 'whodunnit'? I was not able to figure it out. This is a very well written thriller, that gets better chapter after chapter, the anticipation builds as time is running out to get Valerie back safely.
Do you need to read book one (The River is Dark) before you read this book? The answer it no, you can enjoy this as a standalone story. References to the past are made but the author gives you enough information to understand Dempsey and follow the story without feeling lost. However, if you truly want to get to know Liam Dempsey, I recommend reading book one first, it's a great read!
I hope Hart continues this series as I'm eager to find out what Dempsey does next.
Thank you to Joe Hart (author), Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for this advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
After his brother's murder and the events that followed, Dempsey is now living with his girlfriend and their adopted son, working as a police consultant after give up his badge.
When Liam gets a call from an old friend whose wife, Valerie, has been kidnapped, the detective in Dempsey kicks in. He is warned by the officers dealing with the case not to get too involved, but that's not Dempsey's style. The case started off as a kidnapping for ransom but now with bodies racking up, Dempsey must find a way to work alongside the police to solve the case!
.... So 'whodunnit'? I was not able to figure it out. This is a very well written thriller, that gets better chapter after chapter, the anticipation builds as time is running out to get Valerie back safely.
Do you need to read book one (The River is Dark) before you read this book? The answer it no, you can enjoy this as a standalone story. References to the past are made but the author gives you enough information to understand Dempsey and follow the story without feeling lost. However, if you truly want to get to know Liam Dempsey, I recommend reading book one first, it's a great read!
I hope Hart continues this series as I'm eager to find out what Dempsey does next.
Thank you to Joe Hart (author), Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for this advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 3, 2016
Just like my review for the first book in this two-book series: What a great read! The main protagonist, Liam Dempsey, is likeable, serious, realistic, and makes this a great book. All the characters are realistic. I enjoyed this book, the second one, as much as I did the first. Perhaps we will be seeing more of Liam Dempsey in the future!
December 24, 2022
This was a pretty good read but I felt the ending was absurd and just a stretch, not really believable…but well written and entertaining.
November 16, 2022
Fantastic follow-up sequel
Joe Hart certainly works some magic here in presenting a truly horrifying crime thriller. This is a rather brutal and violent story, but the seriousness of it all is definitely what played a major role in keeping my interest. I love crime thrillers and the guessing they entail, and I was soooo close to plopping on a 5th star for the suspense and revelations alone. But alas, I held back the star due to other things I couldn't quite overlook, which I'll cover later. This book serves its readers well in reminding of certain revelations exposed in the first book, so no one should be too lost if they skip book one.
For this go around, ex-cop Liam is summoned by an old friend from his Academy days (who is now a lawyer) to help find his abducted wife. Though Liam is no longer a cop, his skills are highly respected by his friend and Liam doesn't hesitate to agree to come to his aid to bring his wife home. Only trouble is, not only does her abductor demand a ransom, but they also go on a killing spree to prove they mean business. Not only does Liam find himself wrapped back up in the world of being the cop he once was, but he also isn't sure if he's ready to let it go again. But will his skills save his friend's wife or just stand in the way of the real cops? Gotta read to find out! Almost everything was stellar in this story. Great pace, character interactions, suspense, thrills, and shocking violence.
My main complaints that kept the 5th star at bay were mostly centered on the predictable elements, as well as the too-frequent occurrences that it was Liam and ONLY Liam making connections to things that seem wildly far-fetched for someone (even of his skillset) to achieve. This is mostly forgivable, though, since Liam's often paraded as this great cop, but the predictable thing was at least a BIT disappointing. I made a lot of guesses in this book and most, if not all of them, were very much right. I also found the entire third act a bit too cookie-cutter perfect, with a pretty cooperative killer who is totally willing to reveal things.
At any rate, though, I can still confidently say that I had a hell of a good time in this one, a smidge more than I did for the first book. I'd say Joe Hart fans should be pretty pleased. I half expected I'd find a third entry to read, since this one had an ending that suggested the possibility of a continuation. But alas, it was not to be, and I suppose it's up to us readers to imagine what becomes of Liam, Dani, and Eric, which is pretty easy to figure out.
Joe Hart certainly works some magic here in presenting a truly horrifying crime thriller. This is a rather brutal and violent story, but the seriousness of it all is definitely what played a major role in keeping my interest. I love crime thrillers and the guessing they entail, and I was soooo close to plopping on a 5th star for the suspense and revelations alone. But alas, I held back the star due to other things I couldn't quite overlook, which I'll cover later. This book serves its readers well in reminding of certain revelations exposed in the first book, so no one should be too lost if they skip book one.
For this go around, ex-cop Liam is summoned by an old friend from his Academy days (who is now a lawyer) to help find his abducted wife. Though Liam is no longer a cop, his skills are highly respected by his friend and Liam doesn't hesitate to agree to come to his aid to bring his wife home. Only trouble is, not only does her abductor demand a ransom, but they also go on a killing spree to prove they mean business. Not only does Liam find himself wrapped back up in the world of being the cop he once was, but he also isn't sure if he's ready to let it go again. But will his skills save his friend's wife or just stand in the way of the real cops? Gotta read to find out! Almost everything was stellar in this story. Great pace, character interactions, suspense, thrills, and shocking violence.
My main complaints that kept the 5th star at bay were mostly centered on the predictable elements, as well as the too-frequent occurrences that it was Liam and ONLY Liam making connections to things that seem wildly far-fetched for someone (even of his skillset) to achieve. This is mostly forgivable, though, since Liam's often paraded as this great cop, but the predictable thing was at least a BIT disappointing. I made a lot of guesses in this book and most, if not all of them, were very much right. I also found the entire third act a bit too cookie-cutter perfect, with a pretty cooperative killer who is totally willing to reveal things.
At any rate, though, I can still confidently say that I had a hell of a good time in this one, a smidge more than I did for the first book. I'd say Joe Hart fans should be pretty pleased. I half expected I'd find a third entry to read, since this one had an ending that suggested the possibility of a continuation. But alas, it was not to be, and I suppose it's up to us readers to imagine what becomes of Liam, Dani, and Eric, which is pretty easy to figure out.
March 25, 2018
Joe Hart's "The Night is Deep" is book number two in the two part Liam Dempsey thriller series. Liam is still haunted by his brother's murder and the accident that ended his career as a homicide detective, but he's trying to move on. He's settled down as a police liaison, and he lives in a quaint farmhouse with his girlfriend and their adopted child. He's quickly dragged back into the life of a cop, however, when his old friend asks for his help. His friend, Owen, was attacked and his wife was kidnapped for ransom. Liam finds himself being fully thrust into the case, as local and national law enforcement team up to take down the abductor. The kidnapper is ruthless and demonic, craving not only the money, but also blood. Liam uncovers shocking secrets behind scenes and fights at the front line. He realizes his skill and expertise in being a cop, but maybe he's too good. The truth is sickening. I loved this second thriller/mystery book in the series, as it takes what was great about the first book and makes it even better. It was action packed and filled with countless plot twists in the investigation. The writing style is detailed but easy to read, and the dialog between the characters is often and believable. This book features several disturbing and gory murders, so it's definitely not for the faint of heart. I give this book a strong five stars, and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in the following genres/topics; mystery, suspense, thriller, action, law enforcement, crime investigation.
November 17, 2023
Liam Dempsey drops everything when his friend, Owen, calls and says he needs Liam's help. Owen's wife, Valerie, has been abducted. Is this a straightforward kidnapping as Owen is wealthy? Or is the reason darker? Years ago Valerie's sister died a tragic death. It was determined to be suicide but the family never believed that; they think she was murdered. Is this crime linked to that one?
Liam and Owen became friends in police academy. Owen had thought he would become a policeman but later changed his mind and moved back to his hometown where he became a lawyer who is now running for mayor. Liam is not a policeman anymore either but in his case it's the result of a case that went wrong and caused his dismissal. But he is still the best detective Owen has ever met and he wants Liam there.
The police working the case are not thrilled to have Liam show up but Owen insists on him being included. As Liam works with them and helps turn up leads, they become resigned to his help. Other murders start to occur and each seems to be linked to that of Valerie's sister. Can they find her before she is killed?
Joe Hart is a prolific thriller writer. This is the second Liam Dempsey novel but the series seems to stop here. Liam is a sympathetic character with a girlfriend back home and a newly adopted son from the first novel. He sees through the plots and secrets of the kidnappers and finds clues that the police on the case miss. This book is recommended for mystery readers.
Liam and Owen became friends in police academy. Owen had thought he would become a policeman but later changed his mind and moved back to his hometown where he became a lawyer who is now running for mayor. Liam is not a policeman anymore either but in his case it's the result of a case that went wrong and caused his dismissal. But he is still the best detective Owen has ever met and he wants Liam there.
The police working the case are not thrilled to have Liam show up but Owen insists on him being included. As Liam works with them and helps turn up leads, they become resigned to his help. Other murders start to occur and each seems to be linked to that of Valerie's sister. Can they find her before she is killed?
Joe Hart is a prolific thriller writer. This is the second Liam Dempsey novel but the series seems to stop here. Liam is a sympathetic character with a girlfriend back home and a newly adopted son from the first novel. He sees through the plots and secrets of the kidnappers and finds clues that the police on the case miss. This book is recommended for mystery readers.
August 17, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this free readers edition. In exchange I am providing an honest review.
Joe Hart writes a good crime thriller. In this series his main character, Liam Dempsey, is a former cop turned cold case detective - of sorts. While he's trying to solve cold cases he keeps getting pulled into live ones. In this second title Dempsey is called by an old police academy friend whose wife has been kidnapped. As Liam and the team of detectives try to find the wife, bodies start stacking up and Liam has a feeling everything is connected. Trying to connect the dots before more people are killed Liam himself becomes a potential victim - just because he's in the way of whatever the murderer is trying to accomplish. Can they all find the wife in time and stop more people from being killed? Liam is willing to die himself trying...he thinks.
I really like Hart and his writing style. His storylines are fast paced and engaging, his Liam Dempsey character is quick and bold, and he sets up future storylines for the series in a very seamless way. I'm looking forward to book 3.
Joe Hart writes a good crime thriller. In this series his main character, Liam Dempsey, is a former cop turned cold case detective - of sorts. While he's trying to solve cold cases he keeps getting pulled into live ones. In this second title Dempsey is called by an old police academy friend whose wife has been kidnapped. As Liam and the team of detectives try to find the wife, bodies start stacking up and Liam has a feeling everything is connected. Trying to connect the dots before more people are killed Liam himself becomes a potential victim - just because he's in the way of whatever the murderer is trying to accomplish. Can they all find the wife in time and stop more people from being killed? Liam is willing to die himself trying...he thinks.
I really like Hart and his writing style. His storylines are fast paced and engaging, his Liam Dempsey character is quick and bold, and he sets up future storylines for the series in a very seamless way. I'm looking forward to book 3.
May 4, 2024
robuster
This series has been very good so far. Well wrote with some good creative writing. I like the protagonist, I like the girlfriend
angle. In this book she was featured as much and I thought that helped the story line. I like the way the author uses her as the protagonists moral anchor. The female detective was done well in this story . I wasn’t wild about the ending. Not wild about the adoptive son either. I think the author is trying to hard with that angle.
I would much rather had the father as the villain. I enjoy a truly evil , sadistic , villain. The books are better , in my opinion , when a reader has a despicable , hated villain to despise. I think the farther could have provided this angle.
Just my two cents.
It’s a good story , told well with a fair amount of passion and creativity.
Make no mistake this was a book wrote for adult readers. No sex ,no real bad language but the violence is graphic.
I would hesitate to let any of my younger grandsons read it.
But that’s my opinion . I also think these books has the backbone to make a great tv series.
Good work highly recommend.
This series has been very good so far. Well wrote with some good creative writing. I like the protagonist, I like the girlfriend
angle. In this book she was featured as much and I thought that helped the story line. I like the way the author uses her as the protagonists moral anchor. The female detective was done well in this story . I wasn’t wild about the ending. Not wild about the adoptive son either. I think the author is trying to hard with that angle.
I would much rather had the father as the villain. I enjoy a truly evil , sadistic , villain. The books are better , in my opinion , when a reader has a despicable , hated villain to despise. I think the farther could have provided this angle.
Just my two cents.
It’s a good story , told well with a fair amount of passion and creativity.
Make no mistake this was a book wrote for adult readers. No sex ,no real bad language but the violence is graphic.
I would hesitate to let any of my younger grandsons read it.
But that’s my opinion . I also think these books has the backbone to make a great tv series.
Good work highly recommend.
July 21, 2020
Things are going well for ex-homicide detective Liam Dempsey at the start of book 2. Though he still suffers over the death of his brother, he's been busy as an official police liaison, and building a life with Dani and Eric. He's adopted Eric, and they're living a relatively peaceful life in a farmhouse just outside of Minneapolis.
Working the occasional cold case, Liam is brought in on what initially starts out as a kidnapping case of the wife of an old friend of his. But through many plot twists and turns, Liam discovers that there's more going on - a lot more. I was satisfied with both the climax and the resolution, and I was left wanting more of Liam, Dani, and Eric.
Joe's writing is descriptive, but not wordy. He only spends the amount of time needed to bring you into a location or situation, but doesn't over-analyze things. As a character, Liam often gets in his own way (more than once I wanted to cuff him), but his imperfections is one of the things that make him such a likable, and sometimes frustrating, character.
As in book 1, there's a hint at the end of what's coming in book 3, and Joe can't write it fast enough for me.
Working the occasional cold case, Liam is brought in on what initially starts out as a kidnapping case of the wife of an old friend of his. But through many plot twists and turns, Liam discovers that there's more going on - a lot more. I was satisfied with both the climax and the resolution, and I was left wanting more of Liam, Dani, and Eric.
Joe's writing is descriptive, but not wordy. He only spends the amount of time needed to bring you into a location or situation, but doesn't over-analyze things. As a character, Liam often gets in his own way (more than once I wanted to cuff him), but his imperfections is one of the things that make him such a likable, and sometimes frustrating, character.
As in book 1, there's a hint at the end of what's coming in book 3, and Joe can't write it fast enough for me.
November 8, 2021
Liam Dempsey does it again!
I respect Joe Hart's use of the English language. His prose is 'poetry in motion' and a joy to read.
Liam Dempsey is now a police consultant, but he is a friend first and when his friend Owen Farrow calls him, pleading for his help, Liam responds without question.
Owen's wife Valerie has been kidnapped and there are few clues. Sixteen years earlier Valerie's sister Alexandra died of a supposed suicide. Since that time Valerie had become agoraphobic and withdrawn.
Ransom demands were made with the closing statement, "the countdown begins."
Within 24 hours of the kidnapping Dade Erickson is found murdered and the number '4' was carved into his chest. Dade was a classmate of the sisters. Is there a connection to Alexandra's death?
As the body count increases the more certain Liam is that there is a connection between the suicide and the kidnapping, but what is it and will Valerie be found alive?
Immerse yourself in this book. The ending will surprise you.
I respect Joe Hart's use of the English language. His prose is 'poetry in motion' and a joy to read.
Liam Dempsey is now a police consultant, but he is a friend first and when his friend Owen Farrow calls him, pleading for his help, Liam responds without question.
Owen's wife Valerie has been kidnapped and there are few clues. Sixteen years earlier Valerie's sister Alexandra died of a supposed suicide. Since that time Valerie had become agoraphobic and withdrawn.
Ransom demands were made with the closing statement, "the countdown begins."
Within 24 hours of the kidnapping Dade Erickson is found murdered and the number '4' was carved into his chest. Dade was a classmate of the sisters. Is there a connection to Alexandra's death?
As the body count increases the more certain Liam is that there is a connection between the suicide and the kidnapping, but what is it and will Valerie be found alive?
Immerse yourself in this book. The ending will surprise you.
January 19, 2017
In the first book we were introduced to Liam Dempsey, the former cop who, of course, has a dark past stemming from an incident that happened while he was a cop that still haunts him. This is the second book in the series and we find that Liam is now a police consultant who works on cold cases. His friend calls to ask Liam to come to Duluth because his wife has been kidnapped. This starts him down the long road of investigating a case with many twists and turns and to discovering more about himself. It was a decent book even though it was the formulaic ex-cop with a haunted past investigates the case by going outside the law type. It was entertaining and I enjoyed listening to it. It isn't going to win any awards for great literature or change anyone's life by reading it but that is okay. Sometimes you just need a book that entertains and has the comfort of a formula that is familiar like this one.
December 10, 2024
I just didn't enjoy this one, the writing isn't bad but I could not get into the story and found Liam, and some of the other characters, just insufferable. I have no issue suspending disbelief, especially when reading where I get away from other things, but so much of this was just unbelievable.
July 17, 2017
A good read!
I've found the Liam Dempsey books to be decent mysteries that keep me guessing. Like with the first book, I sort of figured out the ending about halfway through. I like that I've only been partially right about the endings, it's disappointing to figure out a mystery with half a book left.
At any rate, I like this series. The characters are well written and the atmosphere/setting in the books has been top notch. I look forward to more.
I've found the Liam Dempsey books to be decent mysteries that keep me guessing. Like with the first book, I sort of figured out the ending about halfway through. I like that I've only been partially right about the endings, it's disappointing to figure out a mystery with half a book left.
At any rate, I like this series. The characters are well written and the atmosphere/setting in the books has been top notch. I look forward to more.
July 4, 2017
I like Liam - just want a little more about him. First book author alludes to Liam's ability to hone in on the truth just through his interactions/interrogations with and of people...don't see enough of that. His involvement with the case is a wee bit contrived a little bit of s stretch but it works. And for a tough guy Liam's a little too supportive of Owen, but the story was well thought out - I did like the way he brought it together at the end. Joe Hart provides the details - if you're paying attention you can figure it all out with Liam. I absolutely love the way he brings Stony Bay and the storyline from Lineage into this book - just makes his world seem "real". Looking forward to the next one.
August 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this one, I really like Liam a lot and thought that he's very relatable - especially in this book. I had suspicions about halfway through about who was behind everything but, even though they were there, I needed solid confirmation to be sure and that was nice too - not being 100% sure of yourself. Again, I love the descriptive detail that went in to the crime scenes, that's what a ton of thrillers are missing. It was non stop action just like book #1 and it definitely kept my interest. I've read them both on my kindle in only a few days time and now I'm just left wanting more. The author left an opening for another book so I really hope it continues, he's a great addition to this genre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book, but I feel like it could be better. The beginning was slow but gripping, and the end felt very rushed. I figured out who the killer was way too early, but that's not even a deal breaker for me. But with the first two murders we get chapters dedicated to the point of view of the victim and the discovery of the bodies. The 3rd murder is perhaps the most important one and is completely glossed over. We don't get any insight into the torture that Davis endures before his death like with the other two murders.
There was a whole lot of reading at the end of the book dedicated to setting up a possible 3rd novel in the Liam Dempsey series, and I'm really hoping that is happening.
There was a whole lot of reading at the end of the book dedicated to setting up a possible 3rd novel in the Liam Dempsey series, and I'm really hoping that is happening.
April 11, 2018
Liam is happily settled in a farmhouse outside of Minneapolis, Minnesota with Dani and Eric (from book one). He is a police consultant working on cold cases in his spare time. Dani is able to devote herself to her art full time and Eric is recovering slowly but surely from the death of his parents. Things are flowing nicely and then Liam gets a call out of the blue from an old friend of his - whose wife has been kidnapped - and Liam goes to offer his help.
I love the life the author breathes into his characters and the fast, urgent pace of his books. I thought I was so smart and had all the twists figured out in this story. I didn't.
If you like mysteries, thrillers, character-driven prose, give Joe Hart's books a chance. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
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I love the life the author breathes into his characters and the fast, urgent pace of his books. I thought I was so smart and had all the twists figured out in this story. I didn't.
If you like mysteries, thrillers, character-driven prose, give Joe Hart's books a chance. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Read less
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