This is a specially priced box set of three novels in the Jack Daniels thriller series (#1, #2, #3).
W H I S K E Y S O U R
Lieutenant Jacqueline 'Jack' Daniels is having a bad week. Her live-in boyfriend has left her for his personal trainer, chronic insomnia has caused her to max out her credit cards with late-night home shopping purchases, and a frightening killer who calls himself 'The Gingerbread Man' is dumping mutilated bodies in her district.
While avoiding the FBI and its moronic profiling computer, joining a dating service, mixing it up with street thugs, and parrying the advances of an uncouth PI, Jack and her binge-eating partner, Herb, must catch the maniac before he kills again...and Jack is next on his murder list.
Whiskey Sour is the first book in the bestselling Jack Daniels series, full of laugh-out-loud humor and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
B L O O D Y M A R Y
Start with a tough but vulnerable Chicago cop. Add a hyperactive cat, an ailing mother, a jealous boyfriend, a high-maintenance ex-husband, and a partner in the throes of a mid-life crisis.
Stir in a psychopath littering the city with body parts. Mix with equal parts humor and suspense, and enjoy Bloody Mary--the second novel in the funny, frightening world of Lieutenant Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels.
Join Jack as she struggles to repair her train wreck of a personal life while tracking down and convicting one of the scariest serial killers in recent memory--a killer for whom getting caught is only the beginning...
R U S T Y N A I L
Lt. Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels of the Chicago Police Department is back, and once again she's up to her Armani in murder. Someone is sending Jack snuff videos. The victims are people she knows, and they share a common trait — each was involved in one of Jack's previous cases. With her stalwart partner hospitalized and unable to help, Jack follows a trail of death throughout the Midwest, on a collision course with the smartest and deadliest adversary she's ever known.
During the chase, Jack jeopardizes her career, her love life, and her closest friends. She also comes to a startling realization — serial killers have families, and blood runs thick.
Rusty Nail features more of the laugh-out-loud humor and crazy characters that saturated Whiskey Sour and Bloody Mary, without sacrificing the nail-biting thrills. This is Jack Daniels's third, and most exciting, adventure yet.
If you are a more sensitive (or adventurous) reader, the Konrath scale rates specific categories from 1 (lowest) to 10 (highest) to give you some idea if this is your kind of book.
WHISKEY SOUR/BLOODY MARY/RUSTY NAIL by JA KONRATH Scary - 8 Violent - 9 Funny - 8 Sexy - 4 Crossovers - Characters also appear in the Konrath Dark Thriller Collective series, the Timecaster series, and the Jack Daniels and Associates series
Joe Konrath has written over twenty novels in the Lt. Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels thriller series. They do not have to be read chronologically to be enjoyed, but the order is: Whiskey Sour, Bloody Mary, Rusty Nail, Dirty Martini, Shot of Tequila, Fuzzy Navel, Cherry Bomb, Dead On My Feet, Serial Killers Uncut (with Blake Crouch), Shaken, Stirred (with Blake Crouch), Dying Breath, Everybody Dies, Rum Runner, Last Call, White Russian, Shot Girl, Chaser, Old Fashioned, Bite Force, and Witch Brew. More coming soon.
Wow, that's a lot of Jack.
If you like your thrillers on the dark side, check out the Konrath Dark Thriller Collective, which includes the books The List, Origin, Afraid, Trapped, Endurance, Haunted House, Webcam, Disturb, What Happened To Lori, The Nine, Second Coming, and Close Your Eyes.
Joe also wrote the Stop A Murder mystery puzzle series, where you become the sleuth and solve brain teasers to try and catch a killer.
He also wrote the sci-fi trilogy, Timecaster, Timecaster Supersymmetry, and Timecaster Steampunk. Even if you don't think you like sci-fi, give them a try. They feature Joe's well-known characters from his other series, and are insane.
With Ann Voss Peterson he wrote the Codename: Chandler thrillers, including Flee, Spree, Three, Hit, Exposed, Naughty, Fix (with F. Paul Wilson), Rescue, and Free.
And, finally, he writes erotica under the pen name Melinda DuChamp, also with Ann Voss Peterson. Those books are probably too spicy for you, so only the brave and bold should seek them out.
Joe writes a lot. You should probably read everything.
Omnibus edition of the first three books. J.A. Konrath is a very talented writer. Jack is hilarious and the supporting cast - Harry, Herb, Phin and her mum, Mary - are fantastic. The plots are action packed and riveting and will keep you on the edge of your seat. For reference the first two books are about on par with a Law and Order SVU episode in terms of violence. The last book heads straight into Criminal Minds territory. So if you're squeamish, maybe skip the last one. 5 stars.
Whiskey Sour 4.5 stars This one surprised me. I mean, I always expected to like it - it's your typical crime fiction and that rarely disappoints. But I really enjoyed this and I was surprised by just how much I loved it. Jack was a funny character and the plot was interesting and kept me riveted. There were some really great life quotes in here too. Little gems that just made it that extra bit worthwhile. One thing that did get me - I think the hate for the FBI was a little over the top - like looking for a horse really? Oh and I loved Jack's mum - she was awesome - can't wait to see more of her. And I liked Phin - and I was excited to see that he gets his own series. I thought he was going to be a love interest but doesn't seem to be the case. And Harry seems like a jackass but that's what makes him loveable.
So yeah, I'll be picking up the rest of the series asap.
Bloody Mary 4.5 stars. Just as good as the first. These are really funny and action packed and fantastic. The romance in this is kind of odd but the plot is action packed and riveting and more than makes up for it. To be fair - I'm not reading these ones for the romance so it doesn't really matter either way. Jack is a fascinating character - she's tough and strong but caring as well. Herb is entertaining, if not somewhat cliche. Harry is awesome. Alan is kind of a nothing character, I could've gone without his inclusion. Latham is slightly better and at least adds some amusing commentary. Jack's mum, Mary is brilliant. For an old chick, she's badass. The comment about drinking her name made me laugh. And the cat, dear god the cat. Hysterical. Some of the humour will probably offend people but I didn't find it too bad - I was even surprised into some chuckles. I wasn't necessarily surprised by the reveal but I definitely enjoyed the journey getting there.
There's a lot of comments about this being graphic, but I can't say I find it particularly explicit. At least, I've read worse. It's more like a Law and Order crime rather than a Criminal Minds episode for a frame of reference.
Rusty Nail 5 stars. Holy fk. My last review compared this series to a Law and Order SVU episode. This one takes it straight to Criminal Minds territory. This was fantastic. I've spent the last five minutes cackling hysterically over the ending and Phin and Harry. Fk. This was great.
It is pretty graphic though. And pretty disgusting. It's a lot more crass than the first two. But it's still extremely well written and funny and riveting. The plot is full on. I felt sorry for Jack - all the bad news that kept hitting her was horrible. Plus all the hits Herb kept taking. But she's totally badass. And Herb is ready to eat.
The cat gets me everytime. Well...the cat and Harry.
I can't recommend these books highly enough. They're amazing.
I finished the first book in the series, Whiskey Sour, and really enjoyed getting to know Jack and Herb. Being a female detective in a male dominated field is hard enough, but when your live in boyfriend dumps you and you become the focus of a serial killer too, getting a good night's sleep is the least of your worries...other than the impact that has on your reflexes.
Jack is a forty something woman who worked hard to become a detective in Chicago. Her job and her mother the most important things in her life, after forfeiting a happy marriage to rise to her current position. When her partner and she begin investigating the murder of a woman found in a garbage can, things get hairier the more they uncover until Jack finds herself the focus of the killer. A killer skilled enough to elude police for over 10 years. Someone who believes himself invincible, and plans his kills to the smallest detail.
It takes a little luck, a lot of digging, and some unpleasant alliances to finally locate her adversary, with a final showdown that nearly costs her, her life.
I find myself highly entertained by this series. It makes me laugh, but also root for Jack to not only get the bad guy, but also a social life.
Book 2, was just as good as the first book, although I do have to admit, the situation with the ex and Latham did piss me off. Kinda saw the ending to that coming. What I like about these books is that we don't have to wait until the very end to find out who the killer is, that is revealed about 2/3 of the way through. The build up is good, the chase to find out who it is and the interactions of the characters throughout. Definitely some funny moments and no, it is not totally gross though it does get more descriptive in the last book. What is interesting is how they reveal who the killer is, and at times you think they've caught them or that Jack or Herb are goners, and somehow, the killer gets away or the main characters survive until at the end, they do catch their guy, although not without some damage to Jack and/or Herb. Book 2 was kind of scary in that they were facing off with one someone who thinks as they do, and not something you would ever want to experience in real life.
Book 3 is a bit more dark, and twisted. Which is strange to say since the killers in all of the books were dark and twisted. I know there is evil out there, but the Kork's and everyone associated with them are seriously messed up. This time, the killing is personal and the villain manages to cause more damage to the good guys. Self mutilation, incest, murder - definitely some "eww" moments, but again, some funny ones too. You come to like these characters because they do care and look out for each other, even as they irritate the hell out of each other too.
This volume contains the first 3 novels of the Jack(Jacqueline) Daniels series. If you are a fan of Criminal Minds, the movie Seven, and buddy cop movies/tv series then you should read this series. Jack is a Chicago detective. She is very good at her job, but that is all she is good at. The Job is her whole life. Unfortunately for her, she keeps running across serial killers who develop a desire to be the end of her. In these first 3 novels, she handles some VERY twisted individuals whose methods and tactics will satisfy the discerning horror-phile. But the novels are not just gore fests(as author Konrath points out, the real minutiae of the killings takes place in the theater of the mind. That's not to say he doesn't set the framework pretty explicitly). Jack has a cast of supporting characters that cover the gamut from sweet to hilarious. Her former partner Harry Mcglade is just pure comedy gold. And don't get me started on Mr. Friskers the psychotic cat that she acquires during the investigation of a murder. The stories are page turners, very taut, constantly moving and are told from Jack's perspective as well as from the killer's. The chapters flip back and forth so you see the progression of the crimes and then Jack and her partner, Herb Bennett's, reaction to what happened. Read these books.
Mr. Konrath, I haven't read any book to date that I enjoyed more than the 3 I have just finished. Dirty Martini, Bloody Mary and Rusty Nail. I've down load the entire series and can't wait to get started on the others BUT I have to give my butt a break because I've been sitting on it for hours and days!!! I have to tell you that it was the actual name of the main character that caught my attention when I was book browsing because I Am THE TRUE Jack (Jacqueline) Daniel! I love my name but I have to say that it wasn't my parents intention to name me after whiskey, it was during the Kennedy years so that explains it. Gotta love a class act like Jacqueline Kennedy. Anyway, your books in this series are "totally awesome" I highly recommend them. They are so funny, sarcastic, gory, interesting etc... I can't say enough great comments about the series. Also, the main character reminds me of me! Humm.....have I met you before????? Keep writing and I'll keep buying!!! Thanks so much for making my days interesting with your stories but my BUTT still hates you because I have to sit to read!!! OUCH!!!! Good luck and have a great day. Jack (Jackie) Daniel
WHISKEY SOUR The casual remarks are funny, the plot is unusual, you will love the description of Jack and Herb. It was entertaining, clues were slow to come, to find who the killer was. Good flowing plot, and characters we want to know more about, so on to reading book two. BLOODY MARY The off beat humor is enjoyable, when the story deals with arms, and the morgue. One sees the feisty side of Jack and her mother, having fallen, and now in hospital. Will she go and live with Jack or stay in apt, with her male friends. The scene with the cat, Mr.Friskers, and Herb was priceless. Her dates with Latham, are still going, one wonders if it is Jack or the drama of guns in the evening, he is still around. Another case, more hospital stays, she resigns, but, that didn’t last. Full of action, and laughs that doesn’t stop. RUSTY NAIL More gory then his other ones,the plot is still with humor, and the feisty Mr.Friskers the cat, along with the stubbornness of Jack. Video are coming , who has the information that is contained in them. Puzzling case to figure out, she has her hands full, with her mother, the cat, and Herb. They all are enjoyable to read.
This was a pretty good box-set. The stories were as advertised. Murder mysteries/thrillers without to much graphic detail and a splattering of humor. Poor Jack. Seems her life revolves around her aging mother, her quest to find a boyfriend, a P.I. whom she finds disgusting but keeps showing up in her life, her partner who has an insatiable appetite and a mid-life crisis, a wild cat, and serial killers. *whew* what a life. No wonder she is not happy. Oh, I forgot to mention her best friend is an ex-con whom she busted. She does seem happy when she is shooting pool and drinking beers with him. Except when leg breakers come into the bar. All and all, I found these books interesting, humorous, and at times nail biting. Jack definitely has an interesting life. I would recommend these books and I will continue this series. I did find them enjoyable.
I love Konrath's writing and I am working my way through his very extensive catalog. I am really enjoying this series. Jack Daniels is a bad ass female detective trying to deal with a chaotic personal life while searching for crazed serial killers. In the second and the third books, we did find out who the killer was before Jack. but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of the stories. The chase was still intense and the stories were still dark. And in between the gore and the horror, there were also some laughs thrown in. Great series!
I bought the trios when they published even though I'd already read them all. They're that good. Jack is a strong female protagonist with believable flaws, and Konrath writes a tight plot that will keep you guessing right up til the end. I also love the fact that characters from one book might pop up in another one. And oh, the repartee - hilarious. Highly recommended.
The third book in this volume was the best. ("Rusty Nail") While the action was more than a bit gruesome, the humor actually made me laugh.
I have the next three books in the series. I'm hoping for more humor and less gore. While the author doesn't go into extreme details on the doings of the serial killer, there's enough to get the imagination working.
There have been plenty of detailed reviews for this series. I just wanted to add my quick opinion. It was much better than I expected, and I had high expectations. I've read and/or listened to some of Konrath's other series (horror, erotica, sci-fi) and each one has been fantastic. Always very engaging characters and plot. This series will not let you down. Highly recommend.
Three cop chasing a serial killer novels in one! Really enjoyed these stories. Fun and easy to read. I know it sounds weird saying fun regarding serial killers, but there definitely is humour in Mr. Konrath's writings.
These are not my usual types of books but am so glad I got them. I really enjoyed them, found it hard to put down, and loved the characters in the story and the way they interacted with each other. Will definitely follow this author and continue Jack's journey
These 3books were well written. I'm sure many people will love them. For me, they're redundant. Not every case should be a vicious serial killer determined to kill Jack Daniels.
As an investigation discovery fan, this series had me hooked! Not only was the main character relatable to me (sabotaging my own happiness), but we share the same passion; helping people and believing in justice.
Reviewing this way because the 3 books came as a package, and as such couldn't be reviewed separately. All are well written. They are actually sequels as well, continuing the storyline of the first, although they each could be read as a standalone, I think they would be more enjoyable when read in order. While they all had a few bits of humor to lighten things up, there were a few parts in Whiskey Sour that actually made me laugh. Don't get me wrong, the books are about cops and graphic murders, and don't buy into what Mr. Konrath says about his own words not being too descriptive of blood and gore, that "that all happens in the readers head", it happens in print too. But how could you write about psycho killers without mentioning blood and guts?
Book 1: I bought this book in a bundle pack simply because the names were too entertaining to pass up. This story is about Jack Daniels, a peace officer, and her current case load of the serial killer "The Gingerbread Man". As you can tell by the names and titles, it lived up to it's hype. For the most part I really enjoyed the characters and found the humor in the wild police chase and hunt for the killer. I wish the story had been more original with some of the cop jokes (donuts, wasting tax payers money etc.) as someone in the field I can say those get old. Quick. Hopefully the series is more about Jack Daniels and her entertaining life. Book 2: I am glad I purchased this series based on the funny names. I almost feel the need to drink the appropriate cocktail with each book. this story is based on Lt. Jack Daniel's and her adventures in law enforcement. This book follows her on the hunt for a killer that's using her personal items at each crime scene. The story is fast paced and quite entertaining. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Book 3: This series is completely entertaining! These books are based on LT. Jack Daniels, a homicide detective, who is faced with all these different and quite unique serial killers. Each book takes us on a different journey that connects to the previous one. In this installment we meet a few members of the gingerbread man's family, and they are out for justice. The book does have a few grisly scenes, but is more focused on discovery of the murderer, not necessarily the crimes they commit. However if you are expecting rainbows and unicorns this is going to be too much for you. I have grown quite attached to Jack and can't wait to see what story line we go on next.
Realistic, funny crime books with a strong dose of heroine.
It's refreshing to read a book series with a strong heroine. Also, I appreciate that Konrath doesn't depict the stereotypical rough around the edges, non-feeling cop. Jack experiences the full gamut of emotions and deals with relatable every day experiences: loss, fear of death, love. She's such a well-developed character that makes this series much more than just a typical procedural, although the procedure is well-researched and articulated as well, making the crime stories realistic and believable. The villains are also well-developed and have intriguing backstories that tell us a lot about their twisted psychosis and how monsters are made.
Did I mention the research that goes into these novels? Makes the reader feel like they are right there, in Chicago, following the 26th District PD through these various violent crime division procedures. I especially like how Konrath brings Chicago to life with references to actual places and streets.
The books are violent and disturbing in many passages--not for the faint of heart--but Konrath also infuses a lot of humor to lighten things up. The interactions between Jack and McGlade are hilarious! Also, I love Jack's cat.
Would definitely recommend this series. Can't wait to start Dirty Martini.
So far I have only read the first one Whisky Sour. I liked it enough that I will read the other two. I just don't know when. I like the rough/tough exterior of Jack Daniels. She is a no nonsense girl.
I have now read the second book. It too has kept my interest. I do like the main character. Jack is a cop/private detective. Therefore all the books will be murder/mysteries. There will always be a murder and Jack will help find the killer. That is why I read these books.
I'm finding the humor very funny. The torture quite bizarre but the storyline a little stale. I love JKilborne and his style and will continue to read probably every book he wrote. I'm going to take a horror break and do some soul searching =)
I love this & I can't wait for more. I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon. And letting everyone know about it. So i gave it a 5 Stars.