A Thousand Vermilion Stars

F.B.I. Files #3

by Patricia Logan

A copycat serial killer is driving their whole team crazy.

Dr. Leo Reeves has always considered himself a halfway decent criminal profiler. Some of his colleagues even call him brilliant. With this assignment, he sure as hell doesn’t feel that way. He’s been missing something at every turn. The case is dragging into its seventh month and every lead he and his team follow, takes them to a dead end…literally. Leo sure hasn’t come up with anything to move things along, as hard as he’s tried. They’re no closer to capturing their killer…even after following him all the way to Miami.

Special Agent Max Prince is worried.

The longer this case goes on, the farther down the rabbit hole, his partner and lover, Leo, seems to fall. To make matters worse, back home in Los Angeles, detectives Cassidy Ryan and Mike Williams have turned up a second graveyard filled with some surprising victims…victims the team know well. Worse yet, Miami has left them with even more questions. When a good cop is murdered, the whole case turns on its head. Everyone wants answers and their team doesn’t have any.

Something has to change.

Worst of all, the copycat hasn’t stopped killing, leaving strange clues behind, even inserting himself into the case. When one of their own is put in horrible danger, and DNA results reveal a shocking truth, things get even more complicated. No one likes taking risks, especially when they involve meeting the killer on his terms. But taking that risk, might be the only way to resolve this case. Whether it’s the desert graveyards of SoCal, the sexy hot nights of South Beach’s gay scene, or the sticky bayous of New Orleans, Max and Leo have vowed to end this monster once and for all…if he doesn’t end them first.

Genres: M M Romance, Mystery, Crime, LGBT, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Suspense

321 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 21, 2023

About the author

International bestselling author Patricia Logan, resides in Los Angeles, California. The author of several #1 bestselling erotic romances in English, Italian, French, and Spanish lives in a small house with a large family. When she’s not writing her next thriller romance, she’s watching her grandchildren grow up way too soon, and raising kids who make her proud every day. One of her favorite tasks is coaxing nose kisses from cats who insist on flopping on her keyboard while she types. Married to a wonderful gentleman for 30 years, she counts herself lucky to be surrounded by people who love her and give her stories to tell every day.
Become a fan of Patricia at http://authorpatricialogan.com

Email her at patricialogan.author@yahoo.com. She loves to hear from readers more than anything and will respond to all emails.

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

So the killer is following you and knows which hotel room is yours? You don’t change rooms or take any precautions nor do you investigate how??? I just can’t with this. This book had more action than first two did and I enjoyed that but I couldn’t get past how unbelievable the investigation actually was- it made no sense. Leo and max are a great couple and the chemistry is intense and the book in general was well written.

[Romance Recs · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was during book 3 in the 6 series FBI FILES SERIES that I realized getting into this series was a huge mistake. Like I said in my previous book 1&2 reviews, it all went downhill during this book.

This series has no romance whatsoever and is very much categorized incorrectly!!! This is NOT A ROMANCE NOVEL AT ALL!!

Also, please don't waste your hard earned dollars on the if you want a romance novel and don't have kindle unlimited.

The only reason I am able to tolerate the fact that I wasted days on this boring series is that I didn't have to pay for it.

I truly wish there was more romance in this series.

I was craving moments between the couple that never came. I'm not sure why she wrote it like this.

[DLB2572 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intense But Good

Max & Leo are back again trying to solve their ongoing case in another intense story. I was hooked on this from the start and was on the edge of my seat by the end of it all. It was worth the read though.

I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion

[C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Patricia Logan! The 3rd book in the FBI Files series picks up following the events in the previous books. The romance between Max and Leo continues to develop and I love how they care for each other. This book takes the characters on quite a few twists with how the ongoing story arc progresses and there are quite a few unexpected developments that test the main characters. I hope to be able to read more about Leo, Max and the rest of their team.

[EQUUS · Rating 5 out of 5]

First a heads up - this book can't be read as a standalone. Start with the book one and enjoy the ride.
I didn't think this series could get any better, but guess what? It did. The hunt of the copycat serial killer continues and the plot thickness, taking us to unexpected places. This book is perfectly researched (I've checked, because I'm slightly OCD 😁), the plot and character development is perfect and a treat to all thriller/mystery/family found -chosen trope fans. The couple in this book is going strong and hot from the book one even when they meet challenges that are hard to overcome - they support eachother and get support from their team. Some characters from authors' previously published series Wittsec and Death and Destruction ( I highly recommend both) play significant roles in this one, but it can still be read as a standalone.
Just another heads up - triggers might be too much for some - just picture the worst serial killer you can imagine...
I can hardly wait for the next book - I'll be counting days.

[Rebecca Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

This whole series has been amazingly good from the very beginning, definitely read them in order as each book picks up where the last one left off. Max & Leo are absolutely perfect for one another, not only do they work well as a couple they are phenomenal as partners on the job. Their love is put to the test many times throughout the series but they always come through the other side, not only is their love sexy it’s very beautiful to see. There are many twists & turns in this series that leaves the teams stunned but they always work together & get their guys no matter how long it takes. This series is a roller coaster of emotions but I wouldn’t have any other way, absolutely love it & can’t wait for more. 😀❤️

[AshPenny37 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Jarrett and Thayne's position as my favourite couple by this author is seriously in jeopardy with Leo and Max on the scene...so full of love, compassion and empathy (as well as being completely on fire) for each other. They're total relationship goals!

So, in the third installment of the F.B.I. Files series - this *can* work as a standalone but why would you not want to read the first two...you won't regret diving into book one - our guys and most of their work found family (Lincoln, Mac Mac Mac, Kindness, Beth and Carter) find themselves in Florida on the hunt for the copycat killer who's modelling himself after Leo' own father, The Sweetwater Slaughterer. What ensues is a brilliant psychological cat and mouse chase with twists and turns you won't see coming. There's action from the outset, as well as great camaraderie with an ever expanding network of law enforcement collaboration as our team links in with locals, as well as getting some remote support from back in LA.

Yes, I love the interaction between characters, the plot, the pacing and the Floridian backdrop - they all weave together to serve up my favourite book of the year so far. The best news, though? There's a teaser at the end for book four...more Max and Leo heading our way can only be a good thing! In the meantime, it's a nailed-on 5* from me for A Thousand Vermilion Stars.

[Edga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast Paced Thriller.

Very atmospheric and intense. Leo and Max find themselves hunting a copycat killer, who bases his crimes on Leo's serial killer father. It’s quite dark, gruesome, and we know that we are dealing with a terrifying killer here. This is a killer who enjoys torturing their victims. The team struggles to find out how and why he is choosing his victims, and what his motives are. They uncover new clues to the killer’s identity and the reasons behind the killings, and I have to say that it broke my heart. As more is uncovered, I found myself feeling sorry for the killer. The romance takes second place to the suspense, which is very well done; the story and events further solidifying the relationship between Leo and Max. 4.5 stars.

[HarriReadsRoMMance · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thousand Vermilion Stars is NOT to be read as a standalone as it follows the same couple and crimes from both books 1 and 2. This entire series of Logan’s was very well done, and as heavy as the plot is it is nicely balanced with the romance and steam to not drag or be too angsty despite the very serious cases the team works on, and the sometimes graphic description of such. We have followed Leo and Max all across the country as they track copycats of some of the worst serial criminals. At the start of book 3, we find Leo, Max and the entire team in Miami hot on the heels of the last one standing. This book brings a lot of angst and emotion for the entire team as they are targeted and mocked directly by the copycat - one more than the rest. This book closes out the storyline but the hint of book 4 at the end has definitely intrigued me to see where and what the team will be up against next. This book was my favourite of the 3. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Bkwrm24 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max and Leo ❤️
4.5 Stars ⭐️

More Max and Leo, yes please!!! I love these guys, these books are packed with so much action, intrigue and heart!! I have to say these guys might be one of my favorite couples to read and their adventures keep getting better and better. I highly recommend this book and this series, these books are fantastic!

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *

[Denise GremoryKohta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!!!

I thought the first two were spectacular reads and this one kicked it up even more. Majorly intense with a level of suspense that gets more so the further you read. I was seriously scared for one of the characters and my heart broke for a few too. I’ll just say that Leo’s dad was a very messed up twisted man and I wish he could have been executed several times over. Luckily the characters kept it from being too heavy. I can’t wait until the next one comes. Patricia Logan is more than an author you read. Her work is an experience that you won’t forget.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new serial killer is working, they are a copycat but the case is dragging on and he seems to be missing something. All the leads seem to end in dead ends and he has no idea where to go next. Will he finally get the clues he needs to stop the copycat? How will he finds those needed clues? Can he finally stop the copycat? See if he can stop them at long last

[Vols77 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book written about a wonderful FBI team focuses on Leo and Max (and the team) has they work on the copy cat killer Sweetwater Slaughter, picking up where book two ended. This mystery book is simply perfection--great mystery, great character development, plot driven, and presented with realism and background that you feel as it you are part of the story. I love how the more this case gets under Leo's skin, the more Max is there for him and the more their love grows. I love how the master is front and center but we also get love, steam and romance for Leo and Max. It is a roller coaster book with danger, suspense, and intrigue and I love that while the characters have hot factor and are sexy, these characters are presented as smart, confident, competent and realistically portraying agents. I want to prepared for awesome twist of ending. You need to read all three books and in doing so you will read three awesome mysteries. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.

[Lindsay Hardin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book three of the series brings the first major arc of the series to a close. The book picks up the story from the end of Leo on Fire. The team races to Miami in a desperate hunt to capture a heinous killer. Leo and Max have been caught in the eye of the killer’s storm from the very beginning but they continue to be a step behind the monster. The two will have to work more closely and vigorously with their regular teammates as well as some new players in order to avoid the killer’s crosshairs. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you want to slow down so as not to finish too fast. The mystery and action are superb but the emotions of the characters will leave a profound impact on you. This one is an all around winner.

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in the FBI Files series and wow does it have some twists and turns. The team has headed back to Florida, where Leo grew up, to continue to chase the skinner. Unfortunately, the skinner is getting closer and closer to the team - and especially Max and Leo. As always, the writing is engaging and the storyline draws you in. It's gruesome in places, heart breaking in others. The characters are well drawn and relatable. This book represents a conclusion, but the series goes on so I am keen to see what is next for the team.

[Katie Townsend · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved being back with leo and max in a thousand vermillion stars was absolutely amazing I loved

this next installment was intense addictive had me guessing and not wanting to put the story down

watching leo and max relationship develop more was so good and mixed with mystery was just perfect

[Aisyah]

Wait why is Max the only one getting hit on 🤣 I would love to see Max jealous instead of Leo

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another amazing addition to this series. I absolutely love Leo and Max! I love seeing how their relationship is growing throughout this series. Then of course this story has some many twist and turns that I love with a Patricia Logan story. Absolutely love this story.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book, the first of Patricia's I read. Leo is a Doctor who profiles for the FBI and his lover is Max Prince a special agent. In the book, they are on the trail of a serial killer who copies the method's of Leo's deceased serial killer father. It was full of twists and crime methodology and all the great thrills of a profiler book. Leo and Max have hot scenes that fir in well with the flow of the book. I will be reading more of Patricia's books. I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.

[Lissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the team closes in on the serial killer copycat, Max and Leo are pulled more deeply into the psychological web the killer has spun. Leo is forced to face his past and all Max wants to do is keep his boyfriend safe. The 3rd book in this series is filled with thrilling chases as they go on the hunt. The intensity kept me tied to the book until I was done. I cannot wait for more of this FBI team's stories.

[Avid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leo and Max are on the case of the copycat Sweetwater Slaughterer. They follow this killer to Miami, where he's claimed more victims. When the copycat takes interest in Leo, Max becomes protective. Being the son of the original Sweetwater Slaughterer, he agree's to submit to a cognitive interview. This turns up information that's devastating to Leo but could help solve the case.

This story is fast paced and full of twists and turns. I love that this story grabs from the first chapter and doesn't let until the last chapter.

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an intense and wild ride!!! Well done Ms. Logan, well done!

[Xanthe · Rating 5 out of 5]

The drama and intensity continues for FBI agents Dr Leo Reeves and SA Max Price as they get closer to the Sweetwater Slaughterer copycat. More murders, attacks and discoveries as the team get closer to their target but it's not without more pain and turmoil for Leo, whose father was the original serial killer, Sweetwater Slaughterer.
The book starts with the team travelling to Miami, following the clues they've picked up so far, but things take an unexpected twist when two of the team are attacked with attempted kidnapping. It also gets more personal as their target begins to interact by leaving notes for the them. It's a dark and twisted journey that we are taken on and, whilst these books are from the POV of both Max and Leo, it's mostly Leo here that we focus on and worry about. There is a lot from his past that he hasn't dealt with and so much is being brought up as they get closer to the end of this case. My heart broke for him several times as new things come to light throughout the book. Max is, of course, a huge support to him. Not wavering from his side and showing his love whenever they have a private moment. Every step brings them closer to finding out who is behind everything but also even closer to trouble.
The team are brilliant. I love the way they all work together and are clearly very close. There are strong bonds of friendship among them all and it even feels a little like a found family with how they care for each other. It's good that when the moment allows, they bring a bit of levity to the group, raising a smile and even a moment of embarrassment for the couple.
Patricia Logan's ability to write a suspenseful thriller romance is amazing. All aspects draw you in and I'm always in desperate need of the next book. The way things unfolded for Leo, I'd say it entitles him to a huge amount of time off but no doubt the two men, along with the team, will be back soon with another big case. I love that Max and Leo also have moments to grow closer and look after each other with all of the other craziness going on. Cannot recommend this book and series enough, looking forward to seeing what comes next!
I received an ARC and am happily giving the review.

[Lesetiger · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In my opinion, the FBI Files series gets better and more exciting with each book. Since the series builds on each other, I recommend reading the books in order.
The hunt for the copycat killer that began in the previous volumes continues.
He continues to murder cruelly and Leo and Max, together with their team, are hot on his trail. But they have no idea how close the copycat killer is to themselves. At the latest when there is an assault on team members, everyone knows not to underestimate the perpetrator. But worse is to come.
I really liked both the plot and the development of the characters. I love Leo and Max, they have strong personalities and together they are really hot! I love how they keep facing new challenges and how they support each other.
But also the team is fantastic and has a good cohesion. The case itself is exciting from the beginning, but also very dark and it is certainly not for the faint of heart. And that's exactly why I love series like this! There are some surprising twists and no, I had no idea who the copycat killer might be.

Once again, this was an audiobook that kept me captivated from the first minute to the last because of the interesting plot, great character development, and the excellent murder mystery.

This was also due to the narrator Michael Dean, who as always did a fascinating job. He is very good at conveying the mood and emotions and I was able to immerse myself in the story very quickly.
The series is highly recommended as an audio book!

[Khurshid · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thousand Vermillion Stars is the third book in the series FBI Files by Patricia Logan. The story is strong and powerful. An excellent continuation of book two.

Max and Leo are still chasing leads on the copycat killer, killing women just like the serial killer did long put to death, known as the deadly skinner, who also happened to be Leo’s father. It is because of his father's crimes that Leo joined the FBI and became a profiler to stop and apprehend serial killers and put a stop to such ghastly acts by unhinged humans.

The story hooks you right from the beginning as Leo and Max along with their team led by Snow are on the trail of the copycat serial killer. As each murder comes to light Leo is having a hard time keeping his cool and is mentally and physically affected by it, but Max stands by him like a rock, loving him and supporting him as he breaks down. Their love is stronger and their relationship is growing to be something more.

The number of twists and turns the story takes keeps you guessing and on the edge of your seat. And when one of their own is kidnapped by the copycat killer all goes to hell and all bets are off. The team works as one unit and is hell-bent on getting their team member back alive.

The nail-biting finish took me by surprise. A great finish to the story with both a happy and a sad ending. This series turned out to be a great MM gay romance and suspense murder mystery all wrapped into one. Time worth spent, in reading this series.

I felt very sad when revealed at the end who turned out to be the copycat skinner, I didn’t expect that at all. A very well-written FBI suspense mystery by Patricia Logan. Looking forward to reading book 4 and more by this author.

[SNik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max and Leo are on the hunt for the copycat serial killer, or are they the hunted?
Third in series (FBI Files), must be read in order. Action/suspense. Coworkers/established couple. Hurt/comfort. On the trail of the copycat serial killer, Leo, Max, and their FBI team travel to Miami heading into more danger as they uncover more clues and more bodies along the way. A lot of suspense as the investigation continues and Leo is struggling with more and more memories of his father and the eerie similarity that the copycat has to the original Sweetwater Slaughterer. There are plenty of steamy times between Max and Leo as they lean on each other for support and comfort, and Max is committed to seeing Leo through the investigation and all of the ghosts haunting him from the past. I really enjoyed this story and the time that Leo and Max spend together strengthening their relationship during and in between their stressful work days. The FBI team and coworkers are still a supportive and important part of Leo and Max’s lives and the bonds and respect they have for each other are wonderful to read. Leo and Max have only been together for a few months so I am looking forward to more romance and investigations from this series. 4.5 rounded up

[Kendra Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC received from GRR for an honest review.

So Leo and Max along with their FBI team members are following leads to Florida, for their serial killer case. Within a day in Florida the team is put in jeopardy, Florida law enforcement members get an anguishing blow and Leo finds more secrets connected to his family. Tempers are high and emotions are on roller coasters. Leo and Max are leaning on each other more than ever. The continuing story arc is gripping and I didn't want to put the book down when life interrupted. The gang still has great chemistry, especially Leo and Max. The sexy times are hot and wild at times and sweet and romantic at other times. Max surprises Leo with a night out and they end up with some really hot sexy time. When the gang corners the killer, it gets really tense and emotional. It really hits Leo hard and I was choking up myself. At the end of the book there's a teaser for the FBI book four and it starts off with a bang. So glad it's coming soon. I'm really hooked on Patricia Logan and this series is a perfect example of why. Highly recommended for those that like equal mystery/suspense with their romance.

[Cheryl Kaiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride... This is book three in Patricia's FBI files series and man did she bring out the big guns... This is not a standalone and this series should be read in order. At the end of book 2 we were left hanging on the identity of one of the copycat serial killers. Max and Leo and their team are hot on the trail of a copycat killer. So hot, that they all travel to Florida and New Orleans to solve this mystery. From the beginning of the ride in Florida, the stakes are life and death. As expected world building is stellar and her character development is so extensive, I had some cringe worthy moments. The action is fast paced and I was hard pressed to put the ereader down. As the story gets darker and closer to resolution, more revelations are made in Max and Leo's relationship. As they continue work towards a happy ending, Patricia has thrown up some seriously dangerous roadblocks. The dramatic ending to this storyline, does not disappoint. I highly recommend you run to your favorite book purchasing site and get your hands on this story and series. It is worth all the angst and occasional dark theme. I can't wait to see what Patricia gives us next.

[Anne Barwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has been quite the ride with Leo, Max, and their team’s final showdown with a nasty serial killer coming to a suspenseful conclusion in this story. I had a feeling the author was going to make these two work hard for their HEA, and I was right! I loved how this hit very close to home. I sat up late turning pages as I needed to know what happened next!

Poor Leo goes through the wringer in this one. Being the son of a serial killer is bad enough, but this story ups the ante even more. I love his and Max’s relationship and deep their love for each other runs. It says a lot for both men that they survive this book.

The supporting cast is fabulous. I love the team, how they all look out for each other, and the strong sense of family among them. I enjoyed the addition of some new characters to this story, and how well they fit in, despite a rocky start with one of them.

The serial killer’s work is nasty, and the author doesn’t shy away from that. I wasn’t expecting things to play out the way they did, and loved how the clues all came together. Very cleverly plotted and written.

I’m looking forward to more in the series.

[R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leo is still mired in the aftermath left by his serial killer father. He and Max and their team blow out all stops in their search for the copycat killer. Leo falls more in love with his partner every day and their latest case brings them ever deeper into danger.

The team, already nicely fleshed out, just gets stronger here. Each team member adding their own brand to the series. New characters and a change of scenery added a lot of depth.

Now back to Max and Leo. This authors leading men are always competent, intelligent, and drop dead sexy. Max and Leo have always been very enjoyable characters to read. Although they seemed to be a bit out of their depth here. I’m guessing it’s because of the connection to Leo’s father. I almost felt like the story was unraveling around them at times.

The story was riveting and while the action seemed to have a lower key, the writing was classic Patricia Logan. The bad guys connection was especially surprising.

For me, this author never seems to disappoint.

Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads