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Blind Man #1
Blind Justice
Deacon Munroe is not your average investigator. He's intelligent, cultured, well-connected.
And totally blind.
Washington DC is Munroe's city. Now it's a city shaken to the core by the death of a high-ranking general and his wife. All the evidence suggests that the general killed his wife, before taking his own life.
Deacon Munroe does not trust what other people see - only what he knows is true.
What Munroe soon knows is that the general's death is part of a far greater plan, a sophisticated and brutal plot to kill thousands of innocent people, including those closest to Munroe himself.
But with only a small team at his aid, and just hours to stop a devastating attack on the city, can Munroe unearth the truth in time to bring justice to the city?
'Read it in one sitting - with all the lights on' - Sun
And totally blind.
Washington DC is Munroe's city. Now it's a city shaken to the core by the death of a high-ranking general and his wife. All the evidence suggests that the general killed his wife, before taking his own life.
Deacon Munroe does not trust what other people see - only what he knows is true.
What Munroe soon knows is that the general's death is part of a far greater plan, a sophisticated and brutal plot to kill thousands of innocent people, including those closest to Munroe himself.
But with only a small team at his aid, and just hours to stop a devastating attack on the city, can Munroe unearth the truth in time to bring justice to the city?
'Read it in one sitting - with all the lights on' - Sun
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 24, 2013
8 people are currently reading
615 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 11, 2023
4.25 🌟
Ethan Cross is a master at thrillers. I loved the Sheperd/Ackerman books and this one is great as well! I really loved Deacon and the others and I practically flew threw through the pages. I still like the other books more but I think that is just due to them being a series which lets you get closer to the characters. I would really love to read more about these characters! I'm not gonna discuss anything else in order not to spoil it for anyone.
Ethan Cross is a master at thrillers. I loved the Sheperd/Ackerman books and this one is great as well! I really loved Deacon and the others and I practically flew threw through the pages. I still like the other books more but I think that is just due to them being a series which lets you get closer to the characters. I would really love to read more about these characters! I'm not gonna discuss anything else in order not to spoil it for anyone.
August 20, 2015
I think it’s good that I’ve delayed this review a little and had a chance to discuss it with another reviewer, because I’ve learned something about myself and the genre. Some of my problems with the book were genre staples, and some of my opinions had a chance to be clarified. But here’s the long and the short of it.
This is a really good thriller. I’m just not sure I actually like them.
When I first got done with this book, I was speaking to another reviewer for the publishing house that this book is being released through, and I warned him that the book was grim–and this coming from someone who has never once said that about Song of Ice and Fire. This was just dark and depressing and painful at times. The main character was fantastic and I genuinely enjoyed him, but the plot just seemed unrelenting.
This, apparently, is common in thrillers.
The book follows Deacon Munroe, an investigator who is well-spoken, smart, connected–and blind. He’s very familiar with the people of Washington, DC, particularly those working in organizations often referred to by acronyms. A friend (and very high-ranking general) has died, and Deacon believes that something more is behind this than a “simple” murder-suicide of the general and his wife. As he continues poking, he begins to see the threads that link this death back to a much larger organization…and they’re not pleased. It becomes a classic race against the clock as Deacon and his team attempt to stop the attack the bad guys have on the city, and try to keep all of them living.
As a forewarning to anyone who may not be aware: there is a lot of death. All the death. So much death. Every other chapter death. Characters you just met death. (You get the picture.) For me, this is disconcerting. I enjoy character in my novels; I like seeing people grow and change. When you bring in a character only to kill them in the next chapter, I have trouble connecting with any of your characters. Who’s to say that they won’t die too? I avoid this with ASoIaF in that I assume everyone will die, so I don’t even try to get attached. (This only works to a certain extent.) In addition to that, it generally takes more than a few chapters before important people die. Ned got at least half a book, yeah? Maybe a whole book! (Uh, is that still a spoiler?)
However, there is a caveat to this: everyone will die as soon as the bad guys decide they will–unless your name is Deacon Munroe. It makes the bad guys sound like Stormtroopers: described as being these amazing shots, but as soon as our hero reaches the scene, they couldn’t hit the broad side of a Death Star. There is at least a shade of nuance to the villains; we have the conscience of the group, who makes a point of reminding us that he’s “not that bad” each time he’s ordered to kill someone, and we know that he “wished he didn’t have to do this.” This becomes tiresome, at least for me, after a few deaths. Dude, you clearly don’t seem to care as much as you’d like us to believe.
All this aside, Cross is a fantastic writer. He’s descriptive, detailed, and clearly has done his research. Deacon is given an excellent level of depth to his lack of sight; his relationships with his family and friends is nuanced and genuine. (I particularly like his daughters.) The characters who to stick around have time and thought invested in them, and they’re (relatively) easy to like. There is a fantastically executed Chekhov’s Gun in the story, which I’m proud to say I caught, but isn’t made blatantly obvious. (I just particularly look for them.) And the ending is satisfying, if not surprising.
As I discussed with my fellow reviewer, the body count is perhaps a little high in this book, but I have been assured that it’s common. If it is, I’m not sure how anyone gets through these books. It makes it very difficult to invest in the story. Also, as this is very obviously set up to lead into a sequel, one of the deaths is unfortunate as it drops a huge opportunity for discussion into Deacon’s character and his association with the others–as well as Cross never truly making the “replacement” work out completely. I would be tempted to read a sequel if and when it comes, but I’ll need to brace myself.
And prepare to read lots of fluffy happy stories afterward.
Rating: **** – Recommended
BLIND JUSTICE hits shelves August 25th, 2015.
This is a really good thriller. I’m just not sure I actually like them.
When I first got done with this book, I was speaking to another reviewer for the publishing house that this book is being released through, and I warned him that the book was grim–and this coming from someone who has never once said that about Song of Ice and Fire. This was just dark and depressing and painful at times. The main character was fantastic and I genuinely enjoyed him, but the plot just seemed unrelenting.
This, apparently, is common in thrillers.
The book follows Deacon Munroe, an investigator who is well-spoken, smart, connected–and blind. He’s very familiar with the people of Washington, DC, particularly those working in organizations often referred to by acronyms. A friend (and very high-ranking general) has died, and Deacon believes that something more is behind this than a “simple” murder-suicide of the general and his wife. As he continues poking, he begins to see the threads that link this death back to a much larger organization…and they’re not pleased. It becomes a classic race against the clock as Deacon and his team attempt to stop the attack the bad guys have on the city, and try to keep all of them living.
As a forewarning to anyone who may not be aware: there is a lot of death. All the death. So much death. Every other chapter death. Characters you just met death. (You get the picture.) For me, this is disconcerting. I enjoy character in my novels; I like seeing people grow and change. When you bring in a character only to kill them in the next chapter, I have trouble connecting with any of your characters. Who’s to say that they won’t die too? I avoid this with ASoIaF in that I assume everyone will die, so I don’t even try to get attached. (This only works to a certain extent.) In addition to that, it generally takes more than a few chapters before important people die. Ned got at least half a book, yeah? Maybe a whole book! (Uh, is that still a spoiler?)
However, there is a caveat to this: everyone will die as soon as the bad guys decide they will–unless your name is Deacon Munroe. It makes the bad guys sound like Stormtroopers: described as being these amazing shots, but as soon as our hero reaches the scene, they couldn’t hit the broad side of a Death Star. There is at least a shade of nuance to the villains; we have the conscience of the group, who makes a point of reminding us that he’s “not that bad” each time he’s ordered to kill someone, and we know that he “wished he didn’t have to do this.” This becomes tiresome, at least for me, after a few deaths. Dude, you clearly don’t seem to care as much as you’d like us to believe.
All this aside, Cross is a fantastic writer. He’s descriptive, detailed, and clearly has done his research. Deacon is given an excellent level of depth to his lack of sight; his relationships with his family and friends is nuanced and genuine. (I particularly like his daughters.) The characters who to stick around have time and thought invested in them, and they’re (relatively) easy to like. There is a fantastically executed Chekhov’s Gun in the story, which I’m proud to say I caught, but isn’t made blatantly obvious. (I just particularly look for them.) And the ending is satisfying, if not surprising.
As I discussed with my fellow reviewer, the body count is perhaps a little high in this book, but I have been assured that it’s common. If it is, I’m not sure how anyone gets through these books. It makes it very difficult to invest in the story. Also, as this is very obviously set up to lead into a sequel, one of the deaths is unfortunate as it drops a huge opportunity for discussion into Deacon’s character and his association with the others–as well as Cross never truly making the “replacement” work out completely. I would be tempted to read a sequel if and when it comes, but I’ll need to brace myself.
And prepare to read lots of fluffy happy stories afterward.
Rating: **** – Recommended
BLIND JUSTICE hits shelves August 25th, 2015.
February 16, 2016
For a finished copy, there were a lot of grammatical errors and proofing mistakes. They kept distracting me and pulling me out of the story. And our hero is so good at his job and so damn lucky (really, he should been killed a half dozen different times but he survives while everyone around him dies or is severely injured) that at times he's more of a stick figure than a fully fleshed character. He's not perfect; he can be an ass or he can be a loving father but overall, he needed more development. I know, I know, this is an action thriller and those tend to be light on character development. But if you like almost unending action, lots of deaths, violence, and a touch of science fiction, this is the book for you. While Deacon wasn't as well-developed as I would have liked, some of the other characters were. Heck, I even kinda liked one of the bad guys; a violent man who killed often, he also had morals and took good care of his momma. Okay, he was a bit of a cliche but that Cross could make me like him, even a little, was some good writing especially as I was ambivalent about our hero, Deacon. While this wasn't the right book for me, for other readers it may be just what they're looking for.
August 22, 2018
2.5 stars ⭐
September 30, 2024
This is a solid crime book that contains a lot of action and not one boring page, but it gets overly dramatic at times - a character can only get shot so many times before it becomes annoying (I'm looking at you, Patterson. That deadly bullet can NOT miss the main artery every damn time.) Cross has some good ideas. But I wish he built his storytelling more - not everything has to be about kidnapping and murder. It's possible to craft a very good crime novel just with good storytelling. Good ideas need to be executed good, too, not just made up.
I would read the other novels in this series, though. I have hope there, especially because I liked the characters of the book. I actually care to see what happens with them next.
Overall, I'd give this a rate of 3,5 stars. It's interesting, but not ground-breaking.
I would read the other novels in this series, though. I have hope there, especially because I liked the characters of the book. I actually care to see what happens with them next.
Overall, I'd give this a rate of 3,5 stars. It's interesting, but not ground-breaking.
March 20, 2017
Another Belter!
Absolutely love Ethan Cross books and this was a memorable introduction to Deacon and Black. Strong, well defined characters, each interesting in their own right. A clever plot with plenty of suspense, twist and turns...but not the kind that throw you off track in following the plot. The pace of the book doesn't slow down until you come to the end! Brilliant, really enjoyed it. Next one please Mr Cross!
Absolutely love Ethan Cross books and this was a memorable introduction to Deacon and Black. Strong, well defined characters, each interesting in their own right. A clever plot with plenty of suspense, twist and turns...but not the kind that throw you off track in following the plot. The pace of the book doesn't slow down until you come to the end! Brilliant, really enjoyed it. Next one please Mr Cross!
September 3, 2022
I liked the short chapters and the fast pace of the story...I did have a little trouble keeping all the characters clearly distinguished (there are so many of them)...way far-fetched as to survival and all but the story evolved well
October 22, 2023
I love Ethan Cross, I cannot wait for him to bring out release new books. Really enjoyed this book and the angle that Ethan has taken in regards to the blind detective and how he views the world and how he uses his blindness to aid in the investigations.
March 1, 2018
Went through it in one day. Good read and a good thriller. I really like the characters. The plot is simple and decent.
February 13, 2020
I don't usually like to read about chemical warfare stuff, but by the time I figured it out I was so deeply into the story I HAD to finish it!
November 23, 2020
What an awesome concept for the book. Wasn't sure how it would work out. The characters were very interesting and all had issues but one hell of a team. Looking forward for a followup on this.
August 5, 2025
Recommended by Dad & really enjoyed the series
August 19, 2015
Book Review: The Next Must Read Book of Thriller/Suspense!
Blind Justice
By Ethan Cross
Author Ethan Cross has created a character so compelling, DCIS investigator Deacon Munroe, pulls himself off of the pages into real life. Blind Justice hooks the reader in from chapter one, when General George Easton, Commandant of the Marine Corps is quickly introduced and just as quickly taken out. Deacon has been long time friends with George. At the crime scene George leaves tell-tale signs in his death to alert Deacon that all is not what it seems.
Deacon Munroe lost his eyesight on the tragic day of 9/11 during the attack on the pentagon. Now ten plus years later he is still investigating, using his other senses to solve crimes that sighted people seem to miss. However, this crime is personal and the FBI sees it only as a murder/suicide; something he is adamant that George would never do.
Deacon relies on his childhood friend, Gerald Dixon, to be his eyes for him. Gerald describes details of crime scenes and helps deacon navigate through life both professional and personal. Through unfortunate circumstances, Deacon finds himself alone and in need of another assistant. He finds it in former Marine, Jonas Black. Jonas is also tied in with unraveling the mystery of a government/military cover-up.
As this quick paced story unfolds, several characters are introduced that impact Deacon’s life. Naval Criminal Investigative Service Agent Katherine O’Connell will join Deacon and Jonas to pursue the thread of solving the mystery and staying an execution for a man she put behind bars. Added to the melee of “what could go wrong does go wrong”, family members become endangered and a public catastrophe has to be averted during the ticking countdown allowing them to solve all aspects of the mystery.
The primary antagonist Antonio de Almeida works for Ramon Castillo. Ramon is the head of the Castillo Cartel of Mexico hell bent on avenging the deaths of his family supposedly murdered by the American Government. Antonio believes he is a soldier in this war against the US and wants to honor a code which only he knows. He thinks innocent lives shouldn’t be taken but will do so if they interfere with his “missions”. The typical cat and mouse games of most stories in the Thriller genre are followed, but with twists that make them new and interesting.
At 316 pages the story is divided into three parts, Ethan Cross pulls you into his story world and doesn’t let go until the end. The settings are richly detailed, and the characters are so real-to-life that it is easy to get sucked into and awake hours later realizing everything in the real world was forgotten while reading this story.
The end promises that we’ll see Deacon Munroe again. I look forward to his story continuing as the series grows. Additionally, I’d look forward to this story hitting the big screen as it could easily cross over to a screen adaptation.
For more information about Ethan Cross and his other works please visit his website at
http://www.ethancross.com/
Also see his author page at his publisher The Story Plant at
http://thestoryplant.com/our-authors/...
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by The Story Plant and Net Galley for review purposes only. No other compensation was awarded.
Blind Justice
By Ethan Cross
Author Ethan Cross has created a character so compelling, DCIS investigator Deacon Munroe, pulls himself off of the pages into real life. Blind Justice hooks the reader in from chapter one, when General George Easton, Commandant of the Marine Corps is quickly introduced and just as quickly taken out. Deacon has been long time friends with George. At the crime scene George leaves tell-tale signs in his death to alert Deacon that all is not what it seems.
Deacon Munroe lost his eyesight on the tragic day of 9/11 during the attack on the pentagon. Now ten plus years later he is still investigating, using his other senses to solve crimes that sighted people seem to miss. However, this crime is personal and the FBI sees it only as a murder/suicide; something he is adamant that George would never do.
Deacon relies on his childhood friend, Gerald Dixon, to be his eyes for him. Gerald describes details of crime scenes and helps deacon navigate through life both professional and personal. Through unfortunate circumstances, Deacon finds himself alone and in need of another assistant. He finds it in former Marine, Jonas Black. Jonas is also tied in with unraveling the mystery of a government/military cover-up.
As this quick paced story unfolds, several characters are introduced that impact Deacon’s life. Naval Criminal Investigative Service Agent Katherine O’Connell will join Deacon and Jonas to pursue the thread of solving the mystery and staying an execution for a man she put behind bars. Added to the melee of “what could go wrong does go wrong”, family members become endangered and a public catastrophe has to be averted during the ticking countdown allowing them to solve all aspects of the mystery.
The primary antagonist Antonio de Almeida works for Ramon Castillo. Ramon is the head of the Castillo Cartel of Mexico hell bent on avenging the deaths of his family supposedly murdered by the American Government. Antonio believes he is a soldier in this war against the US and wants to honor a code which only he knows. He thinks innocent lives shouldn’t be taken but will do so if they interfere with his “missions”. The typical cat and mouse games of most stories in the Thriller genre are followed, but with twists that make them new and interesting.
At 316 pages the story is divided into three parts, Ethan Cross pulls you into his story world and doesn’t let go until the end. The settings are richly detailed, and the characters are so real-to-life that it is easy to get sucked into and awake hours later realizing everything in the real world was forgotten while reading this story.
The end promises that we’ll see Deacon Munroe again. I look forward to his story continuing as the series grows. Additionally, I’d look forward to this story hitting the big screen as it could easily cross over to a screen adaptation.
For more information about Ethan Cross and his other works please visit his website at
http://www.ethancross.com/
Also see his author page at his publisher The Story Plant at
http://thestoryplant.com/our-authors/...
FTC Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this title by The Story Plant and Net Galley for review purposes only. No other compensation was awarded.
July 8, 2015
There is a new super sleuth in town. His town is Washington, DC. His name is Deacon Munroe. A descendant from Southern Aristocracy, he has
powerful friends in high places, including his father who is a U.S Senator. He gets assistance in his investigations from them. The one thing he does not have is sight. Deacon Munroe is blind. He is a hard worker, smart and uses his hearing and other senses better than anyone. He solves crime, catches the bad guys and brings justice. That's what he does and he is does it very well.
General George Easton, Commandant of the Marine Corps, is found dead, in his office, the equivalent of the Oval Office in the White House. The crumpled body in the corner of the room belongs to his wife of 44 years. Deacon and the general are old friends who get together frequently " to drink wine and smoke cigars." Summoned by General Easton, Munroe arrives too late. A crime scene is set up, and the word is that the General killed his wife, then shot himself. No way. Munroe starts digging. Soon it is evident to Munroe, that the General was murdered and discovers a plan is in the works to kill thousands of innocent people. Working with a small but loyal team, Munroe sets out to stop the killings and halt the sinister plan.
Antonio de Almeida, is an assassin from hell. He offers his victims a moment to prepare their soul before slaughtering them. He gives Deacon and his team some serious set backs. Antonio, is hired by Colombian cartel leader known as Vaquero. His mission is to find and put into action the Lennix Pharmaceutical drug, Focus. Focus, a powerful chemical weapon that will kill thousands of innocent people and satisfy a vendetta that Vaquero has against the US. Government. He will kill, with no mercy, anyone who gets in his way.
BLIND JUSTICE is a powerful thriller you will be unable to put down. Deacon Munroe is my favorite new action hero. Ethan Cross is an extraordinary writer who can count me as a new and loyal fan. I can't wait to see how he answers the telephone call from the Secretary of Defense's plea for help on the last page.
Go get them Deacon Munroe!
powerful friends in high places, including his father who is a U.S Senator. He gets assistance in his investigations from them. The one thing he does not have is sight. Deacon Munroe is blind. He is a hard worker, smart and uses his hearing and other senses better than anyone. He solves crime, catches the bad guys and brings justice. That's what he does and he is does it very well.
General George Easton, Commandant of the Marine Corps, is found dead, in his office, the equivalent of the Oval Office in the White House. The crumpled body in the corner of the room belongs to his wife of 44 years. Deacon and the general are old friends who get together frequently " to drink wine and smoke cigars." Summoned by General Easton, Munroe arrives too late. A crime scene is set up, and the word is that the General killed his wife, then shot himself. No way. Munroe starts digging. Soon it is evident to Munroe, that the General was murdered and discovers a plan is in the works to kill thousands of innocent people. Working with a small but loyal team, Munroe sets out to stop the killings and halt the sinister plan.
Antonio de Almeida, is an assassin from hell. He offers his victims a moment to prepare their soul before slaughtering them. He gives Deacon and his team some serious set backs. Antonio, is hired by Colombian cartel leader known as Vaquero. His mission is to find and put into action the Lennix Pharmaceutical drug, Focus. Focus, a powerful chemical weapon that will kill thousands of innocent people and satisfy a vendetta that Vaquero has against the US. Government. He will kill, with no mercy, anyone who gets in his way.
BLIND JUSTICE is a powerful thriller you will be unable to put down. Deacon Munroe is my favorite new action hero. Ethan Cross is an extraordinary writer who can count me as a new and loyal fan. I can't wait to see how he answers the telephone call from the Secretary of Defense's plea for help on the last page.
Go get them Deacon Munroe!
August 25, 2015
Deacon Munroe, a blind investigator, is called to work on the deaths of a friend, a top-ranking general and his wife. The reader already knows that the General died without revealing what his killer demands to know. However, the killer makes the General kill himself and so it looks like the General killed his wife and then himself. But Deacon, a remarkably skilled investigator, immediately realizes something is wrong with the crime scene. And so begins an unbelievable tale in which there is a far larger conspiracy to carry out a drone terrorist attack in the middle of Washington, D.C. at the National Mall.
This is a middle-sized novel that packs enough action that it’s over the top of tension. The extremely perceptive skills of Deacon Munroe, accompanied with a calming sense of class and style, make the entire story fascinating as the rest of it feels like a montage of every crime novel that’s been written in the last five years. The success of a crime or thriller novel lies in including something unique that can’t be found in any other story or a particular style that enhances the stereotypical criminal story. Deacon Munroe is that person!
Early on in the story, Munroe, suffers a great loss and soon thereafter he realizes that he’s always been in love with his late friend’s sister. But the hunt for answers lies larger than that attraction and Annabelle is not ready for Munroe’s brief attempts to get closer.
The task at hand is to stop a killer from getting his hands on something that could be responsible for a chemical attack that would kill thousands.
I’m not sure how I felt about this novel riddled with deaths, violence and surprising evil. No break in the action allows one to grab one’s breath. The reality of the possible terrorist action being planned is probably what is responsible for the tension one feels while waiting for how this action will unfold!
Nice characterization and plot, Ethan Cross! Great for lovers of the mystery and crime genres!
This is a middle-sized novel that packs enough action that it’s over the top of tension. The extremely perceptive skills of Deacon Munroe, accompanied with a calming sense of class and style, make the entire story fascinating as the rest of it feels like a montage of every crime novel that’s been written in the last five years. The success of a crime or thriller novel lies in including something unique that can’t be found in any other story or a particular style that enhances the stereotypical criminal story. Deacon Munroe is that person!
Early on in the story, Munroe, suffers a great loss and soon thereafter he realizes that he’s always been in love with his late friend’s sister. But the hunt for answers lies larger than that attraction and Annabelle is not ready for Munroe’s brief attempts to get closer.
The task at hand is to stop a killer from getting his hands on something that could be responsible for a chemical attack that would kill thousands.
I’m not sure how I felt about this novel riddled with deaths, violence and surprising evil. No break in the action allows one to grab one’s breath. The reality of the possible terrorist action being planned is probably what is responsible for the tension one feels while waiting for how this action will unfold!
Nice characterization and plot, Ethan Cross! Great for lovers of the mystery and crime genres!
September 24, 2015
Blind Justice by Ethan Cross
4 out of 5 stars
Blind detective vows to avenge the deaths of friends
Deacon Munroe, Special Agent for the Defence Criminal Investigative Service, or DCIS, is involved in what is basically a case for Naval Criminal Investigative Services, or NCIS. On his way to meet his old friend General George Easton, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, he arrives at a gruesome murder scene. On the surface, it appears that General Easton brutally murdered his wife and then shot himself. Immediately, Munroe is sceptical, and when told that Easton shot himself with his right hand, begins to harbour serious doubts concerning the situation, particularly regarding the fact that Easton was left-handed.
Deacon Munroe is an active agent who lost his sight in the 9/11 terrorist outrage, and is guided through everything by his childhood friend Gerald Dixon, who is not only his right-hand man, but literally, his eyes. When they find a flash drive hidden in a clock at the scene, they know that things are not as they seem. As the book progresses, Munroe and his friends find themselves in grave peril as they look for answers to the many questions posed by Easton’s death.
So commences a super thriller which has plenty of thrills and spills but also a liberal sprinkling of heart and soul. We are taken into the world of Deacon Munroe who, because of his blindness, has to work harder with his other senses and brain to overcome this affliction. Ethan Cross has clearly got great empathy for people with sight problems, and this comes over extremely well in his book.
A well-written and cleverly-constructed novel, where the main contestants are big and bold. Thoroughly recommended.
Sméagol
Best Selling Crime Thrillers received an advanced copy of the book to review.
4 out of 5 stars
Blind detective vows to avenge the deaths of friends
Deacon Munroe, Special Agent for the Defence Criminal Investigative Service, or DCIS, is involved in what is basically a case for Naval Criminal Investigative Services, or NCIS. On his way to meet his old friend General George Easton, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, he arrives at a gruesome murder scene. On the surface, it appears that General Easton brutally murdered his wife and then shot himself. Immediately, Munroe is sceptical, and when told that Easton shot himself with his right hand, begins to harbour serious doubts concerning the situation, particularly regarding the fact that Easton was left-handed.
Deacon Munroe is an active agent who lost his sight in the 9/11 terrorist outrage, and is guided through everything by his childhood friend Gerald Dixon, who is not only his right-hand man, but literally, his eyes. When they find a flash drive hidden in a clock at the scene, they know that things are not as they seem. As the book progresses, Munroe and his friends find themselves in grave peril as they look for answers to the many questions posed by Easton’s death.
So commences a super thriller which has plenty of thrills and spills but also a liberal sprinkling of heart and soul. We are taken into the world of Deacon Munroe who, because of his blindness, has to work harder with his other senses and brain to overcome this affliction. Ethan Cross has clearly got great empathy for people with sight problems, and this comes over extremely well in his book.
A well-written and cleverly-constructed novel, where the main contestants are big and bold. Thoroughly recommended.
Sméagol
Best Selling Crime Thrillers received an advanced copy of the book to review.
November 25, 2015
"Blind Justice" is a classic thriller, with all the strengths and weaknesses of the genre. As with the previous book by Ethan Cross I reviewed ("The Prophet", October 2012) the story cooks right along. Cross is a talented writer with a real feel for action. He has a couple of nice touches to the standard thriller tropes. Munroe's blindness offers an interesting twist to the story. At the same time he resists the urge to make his hero into a superhero. The DCIS agent has to deal with the real issues raised by his blindness. I also liked the twist of making the bad guy, Antonio de Almeida, a stroke of conscience. It is only a veneer but it comes across as, sincere? By that I mean it's not a tactic to deceive the world but a tactic to perhaps deceive himself. Unlike a lot of thriller bad guys Almeida feels like there's more substance there.
If you love fast paced thrillers with interesting people on both sides of the law you'll be hard pressed to find a better example than Ethan Cross's "Blind Justice". Just don't plan to do too many other things once you start. The story will suck you in and keep you hanging on to the very end.
For the full review check out "The View From the Phlipside"
If you love fast paced thrillers with interesting people on both sides of the law you'll be hard pressed to find a better example than Ethan Cross's "Blind Justice". Just don't plan to do too many other things once you start. The story will suck you in and keep you hanging on to the very end.
For the full review check out "The View From the Phlipside"
July 30, 2015
What a fast paced, whirlwind mystery by Ethan Cross. From the first page, the plot springs out of the starting gate and doesn’t slow down. Deacon Monroe was an excellent investigator until the accident that left him blind. He honed his other 4 senses and picked up his career. Then his friend, General George Easton and his wife are brutally murdered. The NCIS investigators are ready to dismiss the case as a murder/suicide but Deacon knows this can’t be and won’t give up the investigation. This begins an intense investigation that leads to big corporations and perpetrators with such evil intentions, they must be stopped!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The storyline was interesting and intricate and kept you guessing at the direction it was heading. All the characters are well thought out and multifaceted. Finally, the writing is engaging that flowed from beginning to end. Mr. Cross is an engaging writer that writes a tale that is thrilling.
This is a spelling binding mystery that you won’t be able to put down. Definitely pick this book up. Warning though, once you pick it up, you won’t be able to put it down.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The storyline was interesting and intricate and kept you guessing at the direction it was heading. All the characters are well thought out and multifaceted. Finally, the writing is engaging that flowed from beginning to end. Mr. Cross is an engaging writer that writes a tale that is thrilling.
This is a spelling binding mystery that you won’t be able to put down. Definitely pick this book up. Warning though, once you pick it up, you won’t be able to put it down.
April 5, 2016
Ethan Cross is one of my favorite mystery/suspense authors and I thoroughly enjoyed his novel Blind Justice. Hopefully it will not be the last we see of his star investigator, Deacon Monroe.
Deacon Monroe is smart, determined, and doesn't give in to threats. He is also blind and depends more on what he knows to be true than what most folks 'see'.
Cross has developed some strong characters to assist Deacon as he journeys through life and crime. His assistant, Annabelle, an ex-con/marine named Black and countless antagonists who can't get one up on the blind investigator.
The story is fast paced and moves from one murder to the next with personal loss to our hero as well as common sense deductive reasoning. Although I found it a bit challenging to believe in the expertise of this blind investigator, I found Cross'es writing to be plausible overall and very entertaining.
Well done Ethan Cross!
Deacon Monroe is smart, determined, and doesn't give in to threats. He is also blind and depends more on what he knows to be true than what most folks 'see'.
Cross has developed some strong characters to assist Deacon as he journeys through life and crime. His assistant, Annabelle, an ex-con/marine named Black and countless antagonists who can't get one up on the blind investigator.
The story is fast paced and moves from one murder to the next with personal loss to our hero as well as common sense deductive reasoning. Although I found it a bit challenging to believe in the expertise of this blind investigator, I found Cross'es writing to be plausible overall and very entertaining.
Well done Ethan Cross!
July 24, 2015
This book was the action movie that never ended (which is not a good thing). It was like the author had an action thriller checklist and he wanted to include everything in one book. Gun fights, check; kidnappings, check; weapons of mass destruction, check; government conspiracy, check; and mass casualties, check. At 400+ pages, everything was included and it seemed like it was never going to end. I got tired of the "thrills" hallway through and just wanted it to be over already. Doubtful I will read anything else by him. If you are a huge action-thriller fan, then this might be for you. I like action thrillers too, but those were the thrills eventually come to an end and don't keep going and going and going.
October 11, 2015
In Ethan Cross's Blind Justice, this action-packed high octane thriller will compel you to take you through these fast-paced chapters. For Deacon Munroe, he wasn't your typical DCIS criminal investigator. Blind since 9/11 and a widower with 2 teenage girls, he would do anything for justice his way. When a Mexican cartel hits his hometown of Washington D.C., they came after him and killed his best friend instead. Now it was up to find out the root of the source of a powerful new drug and to stop a new terrorist attack before it happens. With the help of a released convict named Jonas Black, he became the eyes for Deacon to see what he can't see and used his own senses. And when their families became the next victims and kidnapped, they would stop for nothing to see justice their way.
November 28, 2015
Another masterpiece by Ethan Cross!
I'll admit I was hesitant to read this new book because I knew that it wasn't the same beloved characters - good and bad - that I had grown so fondly of. By the end of the fourth chapter I was already hoping that these characters would become a second series!
Definitely not for the faint of heart, Blind Justice had plenty of plot twists to keep you guessing. While the characters grew on you, it's seems like we've only touched the surface in getting to know any of them - so there's probably a lot more of each of their stories to tell in future books (hint, hint, Mr. Cross)
Once I started, I couldn't put it down, so be prepared to waste the day or stay up all night reading - it's just that good!
I'll admit I was hesitant to read this new book because I knew that it wasn't the same beloved characters - good and bad - that I had grown so fondly of. By the end of the fourth chapter I was already hoping that these characters would become a second series!
Definitely not for the faint of heart, Blind Justice had plenty of plot twists to keep you guessing. While the characters grew on you, it's seems like we've only touched the surface in getting to know any of them - so there's probably a lot more of each of their stories to tell in future books (hint, hint, Mr. Cross)
Once I started, I couldn't put it down, so be prepared to waste the day or stay up all night reading - it's just that good!
February 28, 2016
Blind Justice is a book about a blind investigator who is trying to find out if a high ranking general really killed his wife, and if this connected to a bigger plot to kill more people. I really enjoyed this book; it was extremely fast paced and I absolutely could not put it down. When I first started the book, it was hard for me to keep track of all the characters, and I didn't understand the motives of some of them. Cross is a great writer (however, there were some editorial issues), he is descriptive and his characters are realistic. I haven't read a lot of books with blind characters, and I really appreciated the diversity. I hope Cross writes more of Deacon Munroe in the future.
August 25, 2015
Blind Justice is an edge of your seat thriller.A high ranking general wife are found dead.Everyone seems to think they both died at the generals hands.When Decan Munroe starts to investigate the case he feels that is not what happened&what he uncovers will shock him in race to save lives .you will race through the pages as the tension rises .&the race to save lives that are in peril,
November 14, 2015
I have never heard of Ethan Cross when I was offered to review this book. He is now one of my favorite authors and I will be looking for more books by him. Blind Justice is a emotional roller coaster ride from the very first page to the last. Very fun plot, good writing and likeable characters.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
February 7, 2014
A blind detective gets involved in the hunt for a deadly drug.
The basic plot is reasonable, but the writing is generally not very good and many of the plot themes felt as though they’d been done before. None of the characters, dialogue or scene descriptions rang true.
The basic plot is reasonable, but the writing is generally not very good and many of the plot themes felt as though they’d been done before. None of the characters, dialogue or scene descriptions rang true.
September 25, 2015
Over the top action""
I loved the action and the characters. Leaves you with the need to know more of the story. Writing is smart and electric!
I loved the action and the characters. Leaves you with the need to know more of the story. Writing is smart and electric!
November 6, 2015
An exciting fun thriller. Enjoyed the story and characters.
July 30, 2016
Enjoyed this, easy to follow and fast moving
June 26, 2016
There were so many grammatical errors and proof errors I couldn't read this book.
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