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C.T. Ferguson #2
The Unknown Devil: A C.T. Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery
A gray hat hacker. A dark-hearted crime boss.
Baltimore isn't big enough for both of them.
C.T. Ferguson uses his illicit digital skills as a private investigator. When a teenaged boy wants to find his missing older brother, C.T. takes the case.
He soon discovers the missing brother is a fellow keyboard wizard, which piques his interest. Then shadowy figures turn up wherever C.T. goes. He gets an offer he's not supposed to refuse from a budding gangster.
He declines it anyway, of course. But how is it all connected to the missing programmer?
When the investigation takes a turn for the worse, C.T. must contend with the police trying to arrest him and a cadre of enforcers trying to kill him. Can he follow the clues online and in the real world in time to reunite a family?
You'll love The Unknown Devil because it combines classic hard-boiled sensibilities and modern tech savvy in a compulsively readable package.
Baltimore isn't big enough for both of them.
C.T. Ferguson uses his illicit digital skills as a private investigator. When a teenaged boy wants to find his missing older brother, C.T. takes the case.
He soon discovers the missing brother is a fellow keyboard wizard, which piques his interest. Then shadowy figures turn up wherever C.T. goes. He gets an offer he's not supposed to refuse from a budding gangster.
He declines it anyway, of course. But how is it all connected to the missing programmer?
When the investigation takes a turn for the worse, C.T. must contend with the police trying to arrest him and a cadre of enforcers trying to kill him. Can he follow the clues online and in the real world in time to reunite a family?
You'll love The Unknown Devil because it combines classic hard-boiled sensibilities and modern tech savvy in a compulsively readable package.
- GenresMystery
372 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
217 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Tom Fowler
35 books101 followersTom Fowler was born and raised in Baltimore and still resides in Maryland. He is an unabashed homer for Baltimore sports teams. His full-time job is in the field of computer security.
At about age seven, polite young Tom wrote a "murder mystery" in which no one died. The story gave him the writing bug, however, and he's been putting pen to paper and fingers to keys ever since.
When not working or writing, Tom enjoys spending time with his family and friends, reading, sports, movies, and writing brief bios in the third person.
At about age seven, polite young Tom wrote a "murder mystery" in which no one died. The story gave him the writing bug, however, and he's been putting pen to paper and fingers to keys ever since.
When not working or writing, Tom enjoys spending time with his family and friends, reading, sports, movies, and writing brief bios in the third person.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
January 12, 2018
Review: THE UNKNOWN DEVIL by Tom Fowler
(A CT Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery Book 2)
THE UNKNOWN DEVIL is a delightfully intriguing and very fast-paced thriller-mystery starring a remarkably likable protagonist {that's become a rarity} who is far beyond my usual sphere, but is eminently empathetic nonetheless. CT Ferguson is an expert computer hacker and coder, university graduate, wealthy enough not to need to work, son of wealthy philanthropic parents. He became a PI after some years in Hong Kong, his empathetic traits and desire to help others as strong as ever. Here he leaps in to rescue another coder genius, who exemplifies feckless victim perfectly. Ransomware, the Baltimore Mafia contingent, and a Mob loose cannon with anger issues and sociopathy also get mixed in, to detrimental results. But our intrepid PI protagonist continues to carry the day and simultaneously endear himself.
(A CT Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery Book 2)
THE UNKNOWN DEVIL is a delightfully intriguing and very fast-paced thriller-mystery starring a remarkably likable protagonist {that's become a rarity} who is far beyond my usual sphere, but is eminently empathetic nonetheless. CT Ferguson is an expert computer hacker and coder, university graduate, wealthy enough not to need to work, son of wealthy philanthropic parents. He became a PI after some years in Hong Kong, his empathetic traits and desire to help others as strong as ever. Here he leaps in to rescue another coder genius, who exemplifies feckless victim perfectly. Ransomware, the Baltimore Mafia contingent, and a Mob loose cannon with anger issues and sociopathy also get mixed in, to detrimental results. But our intrepid PI protagonist continues to carry the day and simultaneously endear himself.
January 21, 2018
Once again Tom Fowler has created a story line that is well thought out, complex enough to hold your interest while having fun dialog and multi dimensional characters.
CT is a private eye that fell into his career. He helps those who cannot afford to pay and receives a deposit in his account from his parents. This time he’s helping a teenager find his brother who has disappeared.
I’ve said it before but I’ll repeat, if you enjoy Robert Parker or Stuart Woods protagonists and their snappy dialogue, this series is for you.
I received an arc of this book and am voluntarily providing a review.
May 7, 2023
The C.T. Ferguson Series:
The Reluctant Detective #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. This story fits into one of my all-time favorite genres with plenty of humor, action and investigations. The storylines are good and realistic, and I like that the PI is a privileged person instead of a Mickey Spillane stereotype. C.T. also has an interesting past that plays a large part in this introduction. Add in his parents, his older police Detective cousin and a good supporting cast, which all make it difficult to put the book down. The pace is steady without any boring bits. This is one of the better edited books I’ve seen from an Indie author. 4*
The Unknown Devil #2 - Another difficult to put down fast paced pages full of intrigue, suspense and action. Unfortunately, this is my fourth read, instead of my second, but that did not detract from the meshing of previous storylines with the current lines. This book is well thought out in plot and character development along with realistic dialogues, realistic fight scenes and a smart mouthed character full of himself with plenty of good humor. There is infrequent use of vulgar language considering the criminal elements involved. Interesting information about the hacking of cellphones and other electronics. There is a bit too much detailing of insignificant information: clothing; cooking; etc., but still a worthy read. 4*
The Workers of Iniquity #3 - Even with the relaxed pace, this is another hard to put down book. There are multiple storylines happening and if that is not enough to hold your interest, here are a few more added. The characters are interesting and they have good dialogues and work in their roles. C. T. has been a PI for almost a year at this point. The solutions and the way problems are handled are entertaining; some have a good revenge edge and others bring rewards. The crime topics are more than loan sharking. 4*
Already Guilty #4 – I could not put this book down. Well written, fasted paced, and intriguing with great storylines and characters, a real page-turner. Bits reminded me of Lithgow and Denzel’s revenge movie, but the author does well making this his work. There are plenty of good characters, old and new, and the storylines merge well with the story’s plot and the past books. Of course, there is always something or someone to mess up the flow, but that is what makes the series interesting. C.T. is C.T. and you cannot help but respect him and his efforts, and he has a hard row to hoe this time with his special case. I do not know how the previous books flowed since I have only read the first of this series. 5*
Daughters and Sons #5 - I enjoy reading this series. Even though I have not read all of them, I have not missed anything due to the author's talent for storytelling. The past is not thrown at the reader to figure out or reminisce over. C.T. continues to develop as more of his personality appears. He has good supporting characters, which is perfect to go along with the intriguing and interesting storylines. There is enough detail to make the reader a fly on the wall without the Hollywood dramatics or the usual stupidity found in this genre. Realistic with storylines, dialog and actions while immersed with good humor and quite a bit of smart mouth from C.T. 5*
A March From Innocence #6 - This story picks up a couple of weeks after Daughters ended. Well thought out storylines; good action scenes; intelligent dialogues; well developed characters on both sides of the law; and good humor with some romance. Clean but the topic is disgusting. Young children. Older men. Add some interesting ways that C. T. handles things makes this a difficult book to put down. 5*
Inside Cut #7 - Oh, dear. My first C. T. book that did not work for me. It felt incomplete, like not everything was there, no enthusiasm on Mr. Fowler's end. True, I do not care much for college sports so the topic was not my cup of tea. I did like a past method coming to play; never think if something (or someone) is outdated that it cannot work in the present or future. Lack of education and experience is easy to beat. The storylines dragged a bit for me but the characters were good, like always. I disagree with the outcome on Eddie, the old family friend should have his due. Although, the way the storyline went on involving Bruno in the first place did not work for me. C. T. came through and did his usual good work helping others and correcting the outcome of an uncovered crime. While this story is not on par with the others in this series, it is still an OK read. 3*
The Next Girl #8 - C. T. is back again with new storylines that move at a fast pace through the frustrations, the investigations and the pain of his newest case. Well thought out and vividly told, this is a difficult story to put down. The new characters run the gamut while the old do their jobs. It is easy to figure out the who and the why, but it is still an interesting, intriguing read. 5*
Dead Cat Bounce #11 - I missed a few books in this series but it was easy to get back in the groove. While I think some of the previous books were better, which may be due to the missing books gap, this story is still a good read. Interesting. Good storylines and good characters. TJ is a good addition to the mix. It was easy to finish the book without interruptions. 4*
Don't Say Her Name, C.T. Ferguson #12 - This is one of my favorite characters and series. There is plenty of interesting characters, an interesting writing style and interesting story lines. It is best to start with the first book since there is a continuous building of new onto the old, BUT it is not necessary. Fortunately, Fowler does not rehash the past in great detail in his books, he keeps the present book interesting. There is action, romance and humor. Language is mostly clean; a very minimum on the vulgar, which is character-related. The romance is clean without the stupid arguments and ridiculous mind sets that other authors add for drama, but mischievous and adult dialog between the two lovers. There is the mysterious disappearance of a client's father but C.T. has to figure out the who of why he and his family are targets. Another in one sitting read. 5*
Night Comes Down, C.T. Ferguson #13 - Interesting. I like that this book is about hacking and revenge. Well written with interesting story lines, a good blending of old and new, along with some intense bits made this another hard to put down read. 5*
Concrete Angels, #14 - Pretty interesting with a bigger role in the narration and duties for TJ. The good story lines kept me involved in the book and some of the characters are doozies. 5*
Novellas:
Hong Kong Dangerous, prequel - This is an interesting introduction to C.T. and his cousin Rick. The events in this short, quickly read novella lays the path to C. T. becoming PI. C.T. is in HK hacking and being a nuisance to the Chinese government. He and his cohorts are arrested and C.T. finds himself in prison. Rick is a sergeant in the Bmore police force working hard to become a detective. A few of the other repeat characters are mentioned but not in detail. 4*
3.5 Red City Blues - This is an interesting read perfect for quick getaway. The timeline is a year after he starts his PI business. A basic well told story with none of the usual detailed cooking or running scenes. 4*
The C.T. Ferguson Series end.
The Reluctant Detective #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. This story fits into one of my all-time favorite genres with plenty of humor, action and investigations. The storylines are good and realistic, and I like that the PI is a privileged person instead of a Mickey Spillane stereotype. C.T. also has an interesting past that plays a large part in this introduction. Add in his parents, his older police Detective cousin and a good supporting cast, which all make it difficult to put the book down. The pace is steady without any boring bits. This is one of the better edited books I’ve seen from an Indie author. 4*
The Unknown Devil #2 - Another difficult to put down fast paced pages full of intrigue, suspense and action. Unfortunately, this is my fourth read, instead of my second, but that did not detract from the meshing of previous storylines with the current lines. This book is well thought out in plot and character development along with realistic dialogues, realistic fight scenes and a smart mouthed character full of himself with plenty of good humor. There is infrequent use of vulgar language considering the criminal elements involved. Interesting information about the hacking of cellphones and other electronics. There is a bit too much detailing of insignificant information: clothing; cooking; etc., but still a worthy read. 4*
The Workers of Iniquity #3 - Even with the relaxed pace, this is another hard to put down book. There are multiple storylines happening and if that is not enough to hold your interest, here are a few more added. The characters are interesting and they have good dialogues and work in their roles. C. T. has been a PI for almost a year at this point. The solutions and the way problems are handled are entertaining; some have a good revenge edge and others bring rewards. The crime topics are more than loan sharking. 4*
Already Guilty #4 – I could not put this book down. Well written, fasted paced, and intriguing with great storylines and characters, a real page-turner. Bits reminded me of Lithgow and Denzel’s revenge movie, but the author does well making this his work. There are plenty of good characters, old and new, and the storylines merge well with the story’s plot and the past books. Of course, there is always something or someone to mess up the flow, but that is what makes the series interesting. C.T. is C.T. and you cannot help but respect him and his efforts, and he has a hard row to hoe this time with his special case. I do not know how the previous books flowed since I have only read the first of this series. 5*
Daughters and Sons #5 - I enjoy reading this series. Even though I have not read all of them, I have not missed anything due to the author's talent for storytelling. The past is not thrown at the reader to figure out or reminisce over. C.T. continues to develop as more of his personality appears. He has good supporting characters, which is perfect to go along with the intriguing and interesting storylines. There is enough detail to make the reader a fly on the wall without the Hollywood dramatics or the usual stupidity found in this genre. Realistic with storylines, dialog and actions while immersed with good humor and quite a bit of smart mouth from C.T. 5*
A March From Innocence #6 - This story picks up a couple of weeks after Daughters ended. Well thought out storylines; good action scenes; intelligent dialogues; well developed characters on both sides of the law; and good humor with some romance. Clean but the topic is disgusting. Young children. Older men. Add some interesting ways that C. T. handles things makes this a difficult book to put down. 5*
Inside Cut #7 - Oh, dear. My first C. T. book that did not work for me. It felt incomplete, like not everything was there, no enthusiasm on Mr. Fowler's end. True, I do not care much for college sports so the topic was not my cup of tea. I did like a past method coming to play; never think if something (or someone) is outdated that it cannot work in the present or future. Lack of education and experience is easy to beat. The storylines dragged a bit for me but the characters were good, like always. I disagree with the outcome on Eddie, the old family friend should have his due. Although, the way the storyline went on involving Bruno in the first place did not work for me. C. T. came through and did his usual good work helping others and correcting the outcome of an uncovered crime. While this story is not on par with the others in this series, it is still an OK read. 3*
The Next Girl #8 - C. T. is back again with new storylines that move at a fast pace through the frustrations, the investigations and the pain of his newest case. Well thought out and vividly told, this is a difficult story to put down. The new characters run the gamut while the old do their jobs. It is easy to figure out the who and the why, but it is still an interesting, intriguing read. 5*
Dead Cat Bounce #11 - I missed a few books in this series but it was easy to get back in the groove. While I think some of the previous books were better, which may be due to the missing books gap, this story is still a good read. Interesting. Good storylines and good characters. TJ is a good addition to the mix. It was easy to finish the book without interruptions. 4*
Don't Say Her Name, C.T. Ferguson #12 - This is one of my favorite characters and series. There is plenty of interesting characters, an interesting writing style and interesting story lines. It is best to start with the first book since there is a continuous building of new onto the old, BUT it is not necessary. Fortunately, Fowler does not rehash the past in great detail in his books, he keeps the present book interesting. There is action, romance and humor. Language is mostly clean; a very minimum on the vulgar, which is character-related. The romance is clean without the stupid arguments and ridiculous mind sets that other authors add for drama, but mischievous and adult dialog between the two lovers. There is the mysterious disappearance of a client's father but C.T. has to figure out the who of why he and his family are targets. Another in one sitting read. 5*
Night Comes Down, C.T. Ferguson #13 - Interesting. I like that this book is about hacking and revenge. Well written with interesting story lines, a good blending of old and new, along with some intense bits made this another hard to put down read. 5*
Concrete Angels, #14 - Pretty interesting with a bigger role in the narration and duties for TJ. The good story lines kept me involved in the book and some of the characters are doozies. 5*
Novellas:
Hong Kong Dangerous, prequel - This is an interesting introduction to C.T. and his cousin Rick. The events in this short, quickly read novella lays the path to C. T. becoming PI. C.T. is in HK hacking and being a nuisance to the Chinese government. He and his cohorts are arrested and C.T. finds himself in prison. Rick is a sergeant in the Bmore police force working hard to become a detective. A few of the other repeat characters are mentioned but not in detail. 4*
3.5 Red City Blues - This is an interesting read perfect for quick getaway. The timeline is a year after he starts his PI business. A basic well told story with none of the usual detailed cooking or running scenes. 4*
The C.T. Ferguson Series end.
April 20, 2018
Eyes Wide Open
I have found that over the years I often am drawn to men authors. I am no longer satisfied with cosy mysteries. I really enjoyed C. T. Fergusons character and now know what the initial C. stands for. I would use that instead of the given name. He is a tough son of a gun that can hold his own in a fight and he does not object to fighting dirty if he has to. He knows how to find the missing and is really good at surveillance and if he needs help he knows who to ask. Ok I'm hooked on C.T. Ferguson.
I have found that over the years I often am drawn to men authors. I am no longer satisfied with cosy mysteries. I really enjoyed C. T. Fergusons character and now know what the initial C. stands for. I would use that instead of the given name. He is a tough son of a gun that can hold his own in a fight and he does not object to fighting dirty if he has to. He knows how to find the missing and is really good at surveillance and if he needs help he knows who to ask. Ok I'm hooked on C.T. Ferguson.
January 21, 2020
The Unknown Devil #2 - Another difficult to put down fast paced pages full of intrigue, suspense and action. Unfortunately, this is my fourth read, instead of my second, but that did not detract from the meshing of previous storylines with the current lines.
This book is well thought out in plot and character development along with realistic dialogues, realistic fight scenes and a smart mouthed character full of himself with plenty of good humor. There is infrequent use of vulgar language considering the criminal elements involved. Not sure if there is a romance growing somewhere in the pages since he is also busy juggling the ladies and his PI work.
Interesting information about the hacking of cellphones and other electronics. There is a bit too much detailing of insignificant information: clothing; cooking; etc., but still a worthy read. 4*
The Reluctant Detective #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. This story fits into one of my all-time favorite genres with plenty of humor, action and investigations. The storylines are good and realistic, and I like that the PI is a privileged person instead of a Mickey Spillane stereotype.
C.T. also has an interesting past that plays a large part in this introduction. Add in his parents, his older police Detective cousin and a good supporting cast, which all make it difficult to put the book down. I read it in one sitting and then went on to another book in this series. The pace is steady without any boring bits. This is one of the better edited books I’ve seen from an Indie author. 4*
Already Guilty #4 – I could not put this book down. Well written, fasted paced, and intriguing with great storylines and characters, a real page-turner. Bits reminded me of Lithgow and Denzel’s revenge movie, but the author does well making this his work. There are plenty of good characters, old and new, and the storylines merge well with the story’s plot and the past books. Of course, there is always something or someone to mess up the flow, but that is what makes the series interesting. C.T. is C.T. and you cannot help but respect him and his efforts, and he has a hard row to hoe this time with his special case. I do not know how the previous books flowed since I have only read the first of this series, but I want to read all the books, including anything else this author has written past or future. 5*
Daughters and Sons #5 - I enjoy reading this series. Even though I have not read all of them, I have not missed anything due to the author's talent for storytelling. The past is not thrown at the reader to figure out or reminisce over. C.T. continues to develop as more of his personality appears. He has good supporting characters, which is perfect to go along with the intriguing and interesting storylines. There is enough detail to make the reader a fly on the wall without the Hollywood dramatics or the usual stupidity found in this genre. Realistic with storylines, dialog and actions while immersed with good humor and quite a bit of smart mouth from C.T. 5*
This book is well thought out in plot and character development along with realistic dialogues, realistic fight scenes and a smart mouthed character full of himself with plenty of good humor. There is infrequent use of vulgar language considering the criminal elements involved. Not sure if there is a romance growing somewhere in the pages since he is also busy juggling the ladies and his PI work.
Interesting information about the hacking of cellphones and other electronics. There is a bit too much detailing of insignificant information: clothing; cooking; etc., but still a worthy read. 4*
The Reluctant Detective #1 – This is my first read by this author and I like it. This story fits into one of my all-time favorite genres with plenty of humor, action and investigations. The storylines are good and realistic, and I like that the PI is a privileged person instead of a Mickey Spillane stereotype.
C.T. also has an interesting past that plays a large part in this introduction. Add in his parents, his older police Detective cousin and a good supporting cast, which all make it difficult to put the book down. I read it in one sitting and then went on to another book in this series. The pace is steady without any boring bits. This is one of the better edited books I’ve seen from an Indie author. 4*
Already Guilty #4 – I could not put this book down. Well written, fasted paced, and intriguing with great storylines and characters, a real page-turner. Bits reminded me of Lithgow and Denzel’s revenge movie, but the author does well making this his work. There are plenty of good characters, old and new, and the storylines merge well with the story’s plot and the past books. Of course, there is always something or someone to mess up the flow, but that is what makes the series interesting. C.T. is C.T. and you cannot help but respect him and his efforts, and he has a hard row to hoe this time with his special case. I do not know how the previous books flowed since I have only read the first of this series, but I want to read all the books, including anything else this author has written past or future. 5*
Daughters and Sons #5 - I enjoy reading this series. Even though I have not read all of them, I have not missed anything due to the author's talent for storytelling. The past is not thrown at the reader to figure out or reminisce over. C.T. continues to develop as more of his personality appears. He has good supporting characters, which is perfect to go along with the intriguing and interesting storylines. There is enough detail to make the reader a fly on the wall without the Hollywood dramatics or the usual stupidity found in this genre. Realistic with storylines, dialog and actions while immersed with good humor and quite a bit of smart mouth from C.T. 5*
May 2, 2018
Mr. Fouler has finished novels and should be given credit for the accomplishment. The question is then are they worth the time to read. My answer is a definite No.
The reasons are many.The protagonist CT is a Mellinnial 29 year old Trust Fund wanna be P.I. Patterned on Robert Parker's "Spenser." He's portrayed as a UFC-MMA fighting machine who is a great cook and sex master to multiple women. When he's done sexually with one of them he dumps her by making her feel responsible for the death of someone when she innocently referred a gangsters brother a programmer. He often labels the antagonist an "asshole." It take one to know one. C.T. is cut from the same cloth.
I finished the book to see if there was any redeeming value. But other than the author's ego trip this character and series has little to no value. C.T. Is not only not believable he isn't a likable guy. He's rich and claim he works to help people which he learned from his parents. I found him completely disengenious.
Save you money and time reading this unless all the meals he describes in detail interest you. They may be more interesting than the unbelieveable characters and plot.
The reasons are many.The protagonist CT is a Mellinnial 29 year old Trust Fund wanna be P.I. Patterned on Robert Parker's "Spenser." He's portrayed as a UFC-MMA fighting machine who is a great cook and sex master to multiple women. When he's done sexually with one of them he dumps her by making her feel responsible for the death of someone when she innocently referred a gangsters brother a programmer. He often labels the antagonist an "asshole." It take one to know one. C.T. is cut from the same cloth.
I finished the book to see if there was any redeeming value. But other than the author's ego trip this character and series has little to no value. C.T. Is not only not believable he isn't a likable guy. He's rich and claim he works to help people which he learned from his parents. I found him completely disengenious.
Save you money and time reading this unless all the meals he describes in detail interest you. They may be more interesting than the unbelieveable characters and plot.
January 23, 2018
C.T. is brought into yet another investigation. This one from a teenage boy, Brian, when his older brother, Chris (and Chris’ girlfriend Anna), suddenly disappear and he asks C.T. for assistance in finding them.
There are links with the Italian Mafia in this story and matters can get dangerous for both C.T. and Brian. Chris is being used for his ransomware IT skills and signed up with the wrong people.
The case takes a bad turn as Brian, Chris and Anna all disappear and even worse when a body is found and C.T. is held by the police.
Another great story by the author with lots of twists and turns and the usual mix of wisecracks and amusing interactions. Great pace and interesting and realistic action.
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
I would recommend this book and the authors other books to anyone. Great investigative stories with up to date cyber warfare problems and a somewhat strange relationship between C.T. and the local police.
There are links with the Italian Mafia in this story and matters can get dangerous for both C.T. and Brian. Chris is being used for his ransomware IT skills and signed up with the wrong people.
The case takes a bad turn as Brian, Chris and Anna all disappear and even worse when a body is found and C.T. is held by the police.
Another great story by the author with lots of twists and turns and the usual mix of wisecracks and amusing interactions. Great pace and interesting and realistic action.
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of this book from the author and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
I would recommend this book and the authors other books to anyone. Great investigative stories with up to date cyber warfare problems and a somewhat strange relationship between C.T. and the local police.
February 11, 2018
kindle unlimited, interesting premise, pretty much the same feelings as the last one well and the short one so read this one and will read the next.
A brother on the run. A gangster consumed by ambition. Can C.T. Ferguson survive long enough to reunite a family?
Hacker turned private investigator C.T. Ferguson sees a lot of himself in his teenaged client. Brian hires C.T. to find older brother Chris and his girlfriend Anna. C.T. learns Chris wrote ransomware that would be potent in the wrong hands.
Alberto Esposito wants to modernize and take over organized crime in Baltimore. He's focused on Chris and his ransomware--a program he hired Chris to write. He's determined to find Chris and doesn't care who becomes collateral damage.
A C.T. Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery books
The Reluctant Detective: 1
Pro Bono: Tales of a Reluctant Detective 1.5
The Unknown Devil 2
Land of the Brace 3
A brother on the run. A gangster consumed by ambition. Can C.T. Ferguson survive long enough to reunite a family?
Hacker turned private investigator C.T. Ferguson sees a lot of himself in his teenaged client. Brian hires C.T. to find older brother Chris and his girlfriend Anna. C.T. learns Chris wrote ransomware that would be potent in the wrong hands.
Alberto Esposito wants to modernize and take over organized crime in Baltimore. He's focused on Chris and his ransomware--a program he hired Chris to write. He's determined to find Chris and doesn't care who becomes collateral damage.
A C.T. Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery books
The Reluctant Detective: 1
Pro Bono: Tales of a Reluctant Detective 1.5
The Unknown Devil 2
Land of the Brace 3
February 17, 2018
Wise-cracking C.T. Ferguson is on another whirl wind case. Former computer hacker, C. T. Ferguson is now a private investigator. In this case he is hired to find Brian's brother, Chris and his girlfriend Anna. Chris has written a ransomeware and Alberto Esposito wants the program he hired Chris to write. But Chris and Anna took off to parts unknown to everyone. This is where C.T. gets involved and things go from finding two people to finding three when Brian, Chris and Anna all disappear. But dead bodies are starting to show up....not a good thing. Esposito doesn't care who gets hurt or dies in the path of him getting his program! This is a great read! The action is wonderful, the characters are great...especially the smart-mouth remarks. There is some computer jargon going on that I let fly over my head, but it didn't hinder the story line for me. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. The review is my own opinion.
April 25, 2019
Having enjoyed the first book of the C.T. Ferguson series this one had a lot to live up to. C.T. is back with his trademark wit and shady ethics. His new case sounds simple: find a missing brother. As this is a C.T. Ferguson novel there were to be plenty of twists and turns along the way as well as some good old fashioned fist fights. C.T. is one of my favourite characters because he’s a good guy but he blurs the line between 'good guy' and 'bad guy' methods. If you’re new to Tom Fowler’s writing then this is a great book to read. I think I personally enjoyed it more having read the first book as I like that feeling of revisiting a character I’ve grown to like. That said this book works perfectly well as a stand-alone and is a fun entertaining read all about a P.I. with a good heart trying to help people who need it, and he’s not afraid to cross a line or two if he needs to! The best recommendation for any book is if you want more by the author and I certainly do.
January 31, 2018
This was a very enjoyable private investigator thriller, rather unusual in that the main character (C.T. Ferguson) is a software expert who comes from a very wealthy family who continue to support him financially. I liked that the characters are also rather unusual and don't always behave in the way that might be expected, and I also liked the inclusion of hi-tech subjects such as ransomeware, related by someone who obviously has a great deal of expertise in this area.
It is a skilfully put together tale and well worth a read, I do have the book which precedes this one (The Reluctant Detective) in my 'to be read' pile, and I have moved it up that pile, so that I will read it sooner rather than later, now that I have read this book.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author but this review has been voluntarily written, solely based on my own opinions.
It is a skilfully put together tale and well worth a read, I do have the book which precedes this one (The Reluctant Detective) in my 'to be read' pile, and I have moved it up that pile, so that I will read it sooner rather than later, now that I have read this book.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author but this review has been voluntarily written, solely based on my own opinions.
January 31, 2018
I love Tom Fowler's P.I. C.T. Ferguson. He's wisecracking, extremely smart and has a relationship with a mob boss that is not so surprising. Those of us who grew up in neighborhoods that had a mob presence very often had a nodding acquaintance with the very people whose pictures could be on the wall at the local precincts. The one problem I had with this book was the excessive computer terminology. Most average computer users have no idea that a thread isn't just something found on a spool. This certainly would not stop me from reading his next book. I just want more physical action not quite as much coding.
September 23, 2018
The Unknown Devil: A C.T. Ferguson Private Investigator Mystery (The C.T. Ferguson Mystery Novels Book 2)This is the second book in Tom Fowler's C.T. Ferguson P.I series. In this adventure, C.T. is hired by a sixteen year old boy, Brian Sellers, to find his brother,Chris. Chris is a brilliant computer programmer. and hasn't been home for a couple of days. So, the adventure begins... I really enjoyed this book. It draws you into the story from the start. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good twisty story with a lot of action. In fact, I liked the book so much that I bought the it ,even though; I received an ARC[ advanced readers copy], so that, I could reread it in the future.
January 30, 2018
I liked the book! CT is a private detective that is paid by his parents to provide services to those who really can't afford private investigators fees. This book was given to me as an Advanced Reading Copy for an honest review. This book has a lot of surprises, action, adventure and mystery. CT has a wide range of friends, so there's never a shortage of help when a case gets complicated. I enjoy the cases, the locales of the story and the almost "never a dull moment" vibe that seems to prevail in CT's adventures
July 23, 2019
Having enjoyed the first book of the C.T. Ferguson series this one had a lot to live up to. C.T. is back with his trademark wit and shady ethics. His new case sounds simple: find a missing brother. As this is a C.T. Ferguson novel there were to be plenty of twists and turns along the way as well as some good old fashioned fist fights. C.T. is one of my favourite characters because he’s a good guy but he blurs the line between 'good guy' and 'bad guy' methods. If you’re new to Tom Fowler’s writing then this is a great book to read. I think I personally enjoyed it more having read the first book as I like that feeling of revisiting a character I’ve grown to like. That said this book works perfectly well as a stand-alone and is a fun entertaining read all about a P.I. with a good heart trying to help people who need it, and he’s not afraid to cross a line or two if he needs to! The best recommendation for any book is if you want more by the author and I certainly do.
September 23, 2019
Great Series
C T Ferguson is an excellent protagonist. I like that his motives are altruistic, he is intelligent, and he knows he has faults. These stories are interesting. They are also fascinating due in part to the technological knowledge of the protagonist. There are many books available these days and I read a large number of them. There are few books that I find that are as good as this series so far. The characters are good and the story keeps you engrossed from beginning to end.
C T Ferguson is an excellent protagonist. I like that his motives are altruistic, he is intelligent, and he knows he has faults. These stories are interesting. They are also fascinating due in part to the technological knowledge of the protagonist. There are many books available these days and I read a large number of them. There are few books that I find that are as good as this series so far. The characters are good and the story keeps you engrossed from beginning to end.
October 26, 2019
C.T. Does it Again
Tom Fowler is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. His character, C.T., is a reckless PI who works for nothing from his clients, getting paid by his wealthy parents for doing good for the downtrodden. In this case, a young teen is worried about his older brother who has disappeared along with his girlfriend. The job is to find them. C.T. Uses his computer skills and his martial arts training to bring a successful conclusion to the case. Another easy read. Enjoy.
Tom Fowler is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. His character, C.T., is a reckless PI who works for nothing from his clients, getting paid by his wealthy parents for doing good for the downtrodden. In this case, a young teen is worried about his older brother who has disappeared along with his girlfriend. The job is to find them. C.T. Uses his computer skills and his martial arts training to bring a successful conclusion to the case. Another easy read. Enjoy.
January 19, 2020
C.T.'s at it again. I recommend you read it & see where it leads him this time around.
C.T.'s ventures or maybe adventures is a better description, keep getting more involved and the dangerous outcome possibilities worse. Being computer savvy has its advantages but a computer is no match for a gun, knife or a goon's fist. C.T.'s way of using his brains to outdo the brawn of the thugs is what makes him different from the other P.I.s & keeps things interesting for the readers. Enjoy this & his other cases.
C.T.'s ventures or maybe adventures is a better description, keep getting more involved and the dangerous outcome possibilities worse. Being computer savvy has its advantages but a computer is no match for a gun, knife or a goon's fist. C.T.'s way of using his brains to outdo the brawn of the thugs is what makes him different from the other P.I.s & keeps things interesting for the readers. Enjoy this & his other cases.
Read
May 28, 2025Had been a couple of years since I read the first in the series and I thought after reading the John Tyler books, I thought it was time to get back into CT.
Glad I did as this has been an interesting read that always makes me hungry! Why? Because CT is a rather good cook and his recipes makes my mouth water. Despite that, his detective skills are getting good with his use of computers and the like. Having to find someone who is possibly helping a rival to his monster friend, Tony, requires CT to use all of his skills.
Good to get into this series knowing it will be an enjoyable ride.
Glad I did as this has been an interesting read that always makes me hungry! Why? Because CT is a rather good cook and his recipes makes my mouth water. Despite that, his detective skills are getting good with his use of computers and the like. Having to find someone who is possibly helping a rival to his monster friend, Tony, requires CT to use all of his skills.
Good to get into this series knowing it will be an enjoyable ride.
May 28, 2018
A devilishly fun series addition
What should have been a simple missing person run causes C.T. Ferguson to find himself hip deep in another mess. Following along the lines of previous C.T. Ferguson books the reader finds themselves shaking their head at how the PI could simply have some of the worst luck when receiving and taking on cases (granted he only does pro bono work so what can we expect), but the best luck when solving said cases.
What should have been a simple missing person run causes C.T. Ferguson to find himself hip deep in another mess. Following along the lines of previous C.T. Ferguson books the reader finds themselves shaking their head at how the PI could simply have some of the worst luck when receiving and taking on cases (granted he only does pro bono work so what can we expect), but the best luck when solving said cases.
July 27, 2018
Unconventional PI in Baltimore
I received this eBook without charge, and my review is unsolicited, but my personal opinion.
Fun book. C.T. comes from the monied class, and investigates for clients for no charge. His skills include computer hacking, so the mix of technology into the good guys versus the bad guys kept it interesting. Add in a mob connection and multiple bedmates, the action kept my interest.
I received this eBook without charge, and my review is unsolicited, but my personal opinion.
Fun book. C.T. comes from the monied class, and investigates for clients for no charge. His skills include computer hacking, so the mix of technology into the good guys versus the bad guys kept it interesting. Add in a mob connection and multiple bedmates, the action kept my interest.
May 24, 2018
CT gets better all the time!
I've been following CT Fergusen since the beginning and he just gets better and better. The writing is tight , characters believable and the plot thickens. Our protagonist has a conscience and faces moral dilemma . Sometimes he chooses the right way, sometimes not so much. Just like us real people.
I've been following CT Fergusen since the beginning and he just gets better and better. The writing is tight , characters believable and the plot thickens. Our protagonist has a conscience and faces moral dilemma . Sometimes he chooses the right way, sometimes not so much. Just like us real people.
April 1, 2019
C. T. Ferguson (protagonist) is my favorite P.I. And I love reading Tom Fowler's books describing C. T.'s cases and misadventures. And while I did enjoy The Unknown Devil, it is not his best work. I recommend the entire series (I still have one book remaining to read) and hope you enjoy them as much as I have.
Read via Kindle Unlimited
Read via Kindle Unlimited
January 10, 2022
I’ve read the first two in the series. CT is a budding PI. Spoiled rich guy with a questionable background, a suppressed conscience, trying to grow up. I’d rate them as good solid crime stories, well written, well edited with loads of room to develop. CT is growing on me. I like the first person narrative, it fits. I’ll definitely read a third.
January 20, 2018
Depending on how well you know the Baltimore region, this will be more or less easy to follow. Good descriptions. I read it in one long day.
I received an ARC and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
I received an ARC and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
January 31, 2018
Excellent private eye story
Could not stop reading! The characters are interesting and a bit unique. Love the tech parts and the story could be happening right now somewhere in the world. Baltimore is my hometown so it also helps with my homesickness! Can't wait for the next one!
Could not stop reading! The characters are interesting and a bit unique. Love the tech parts and the story could be happening right now somewhere in the world. Baltimore is my hometown so it also helps with my homesickness! Can't wait for the next one!
February 11, 2018
Good
This story had some jumps and at times I didn't like the main character (although to be honest I think he wasn't sure about himself either). Even with some repetition and long descriptions of some events, the story line is good and kept me interested.
This story had some jumps and at times I didn't like the main character (although to be honest I think he wasn't sure about himself either). Even with some repetition and long descriptions of some events, the story line is good and kept me interested.
March 8, 2018
If I Find Them First
This is a well written story, with great characters and a well developed storyline. The flow of the story has a nice rhythm, there are laughs and unpredictably twists and turns with a nice ending.
This is a well written story, with great characters and a well developed storyline. The flow of the story has a nice rhythm, there are laughs and unpredictably twists and turns with a nice ending.
April 12, 2018
A good followup
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a good follow up to Tom's first book. The characterisations are believable. I can't wait for the next instalment of C.T. Ferguson's investigations.
I enjoyed reading this book. It is a good follow up to Tom's first book. The characterisations are believable. I can't wait for the next instalment of C.T. Ferguson's investigations.
November 29, 2018
Very intriguing!
C.T. is hired to find a young man's brother who is hiding from a mobster. He finds him, only to lose him and the young man from a kidnapping. Can he find them again before the mobster kills them?
C.T. is hired to find a young man's brother who is hiding from a mobster. He finds him, only to lose him and the young man from a kidnapping. Can he find them again before the mobster kills them?
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