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Abby Kane FBI Thriller #3
Russian Hill
The Carlsons are charming, intelligent, and hospitable. That’s how they turn people into victims.
Famous tourist attractions in San Francisco are being decorated with body parts. As Agent Abby Kane digs into the investigation, she believes the killer is trying to put on a show, maybe even send a message. As she races to determine where the killer will strike next, the Carlsons have already found their next victim and are preparing for their final act.
With 1,000s of five-star reviews and half a million downloads worldwide, this pulse-racing mystery will keep you on edge.
What readers are saying:
★★★★★ This very inventive plot grabs you and doesn't let go.
★★★★★ The sheer audacity of the motive for the murders is ingenious.
★★★★★ The characters, the plot, and the horrific game are all twisted together for an engrossing read.
★★★★★ Hutchinson's writing style reminds me of James Patterson's.
★★★★★ A story without a brake pedal.
★★★★★ Great brainteaser.
★★★★★ Surprisingly fresh.
★★★★★ Pure genius. I love the idea of Chasing Chinatown.
★★★★★ The suspense is intense.
★★★★★ Wildly entertaining.
★★★★★ One of the best law enforcement novels I have read recently.
★★★★★ A compulsive, gripping thriller full of high-energy twists and turns.
Russian Hill is book one in the Chasing Chinatown Trilogy. A twisted, heart-stopping guessing game.
Famous tourist attractions in San Francisco are being decorated with body parts. As Agent Abby Kane digs into the investigation, she believes the killer is trying to put on a show, maybe even send a message. As she races to determine where the killer will strike next, the Carlsons have already found their next victim and are preparing for their final act.
With 1,000s of five-star reviews and half a million downloads worldwide, this pulse-racing mystery will keep you on edge.
What readers are saying:
★★★★★ This very inventive plot grabs you and doesn't let go.
★★★★★ The sheer audacity of the motive for the murders is ingenious.
★★★★★ The characters, the plot, and the horrific game are all twisted together for an engrossing read.
★★★★★ Hutchinson's writing style reminds me of James Patterson's.
★★★★★ A story without a brake pedal.
★★★★★ Great brainteaser.
★★★★★ Surprisingly fresh.
★★★★★ Pure genius. I love the idea of Chasing Chinatown.
★★★★★ The suspense is intense.
★★★★★ Wildly entertaining.
★★★★★ One of the best law enforcement novels I have read recently.
★★★★★ A compulsive, gripping thriller full of high-energy twists and turns.
Russian Hill is book one in the Chasing Chinatown Trilogy. A twisted, heart-stopping guessing game.
253 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2013
1890 people are currently reading
2787 people want to read
About the author
Ty Hutchinson
78 books663 followersTy Hutchinson is a USA Today bestselling author who writes dark, high-concept thrillers that punch hard and don't let up.
A full-time nomad since 2013, he blends real-world detail with twisted imagination to deliver binge-worthy stories—where the rules are bent, the stakes are high, and the exits are never marked.
Living everywhere and nowhere, he's drawn to strange things and peculiar people—almost always leading to one question: what if?
A full-time nomad since 2013, he blends real-world detail with twisted imagination to deliver binge-worthy stories—where the rules are bent, the stakes are high, and the exits are never marked.
Living everywhere and nowhere, he's drawn to strange things and peculiar people—almost always leading to one question: what if?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
September 7, 2015
Nicely written although gory. This book takes you into the depths of San Francisco's Chinatown. Likable, well developed characters. Good handling of most vulgarities. Some unrealistic ideas.
June 23, 2017
2.5 STARS
Let’s start with the positive. The writing style is very comfortable, which makes it a fast and easy read.
However…
The character development could have been better. There were hints about the past which weren’t explained. An argument can be made that this is the first in a series, but it doesn’t sit well with me, especially when the second book may be read years after the first.
My biggest problem with this book was the story, which is a pity. It wasn’t a bad story, but it was more like a thriller-by-numbers: I’ve read every angle of this story in previous books, so nothing jumped out and surprised me. I’ll compare this book to a popcorn-movie – something you enjoy while you are watching it, but a week from now you won’t remember anything specific about it.
I’m not trying to slam the author. In fact, should the opportunity come along in the future, I may try another Hutchinson book again, if only because I think it will be a fast read. But this story didn’t do it for me.
If you want examples of my complaint, read on, but there are a lot of spoilers.
** MAJOR SPOILERS **
Thriller-by-numbers:
Man and woman meet. It’s a rough start. CHECK!
Man and woman becomes attracted to one another, but she (isn’t it always the woman?) stays in denial until the end of the book. CHECK!
She makes connections that link the crimes, but they have a hard time convincing the bosses. CHECK!
Rookie agent gets killed the first day in the field. CHECK!
Good guys get captured by bad guys. CHECK!
Asian guy turns out to be Kung-Fu expert…CHECK!
Let’s start with the positive. The writing style is very comfortable, which makes it a fast and easy read.
However…
The character development could have been better. There were hints about the past which weren’t explained. An argument can be made that this is the first in a series, but it doesn’t sit well with me, especially when the second book may be read years after the first.
My biggest problem with this book was the story, which is a pity. It wasn’t a bad story, but it was more like a thriller-by-numbers: I’ve read every angle of this story in previous books, so nothing jumped out and surprised me. I’ll compare this book to a popcorn-movie – something you enjoy while you are watching it, but a week from now you won’t remember anything specific about it.
I’m not trying to slam the author. In fact, should the opportunity come along in the future, I may try another Hutchinson book again, if only because I think it will be a fast read. But this story didn’t do it for me.
If you want examples of my complaint, read on, but there are a lot of spoilers.
** MAJOR SPOILERS **
Thriller-by-numbers:
Man and woman meet. It’s a rough start. CHECK!
Man and woman becomes attracted to one another, but she (isn’t it always the woman?) stays in denial until the end of the book. CHECK!
She makes connections that link the crimes, but they have a hard time convincing the bosses. CHECK!
Rookie agent gets killed the first day in the field. CHECK!
Good guys get captured by bad guys. CHECK!
Asian guy turns out to be Kung-Fu expert…CHECK!
February 21, 2022
Because this is a thriller, we know right up front "whodunnit." The question is why ... and whether FBI Agent Abby Kane and SFPD Detective Kyle Kang, will be able to stop them.
There's chemistry between Abby and Kyle ... and it's complicated for a lot of reasons. It helps them work well together, but they struggle to keep things professional. That felt real for me. They learn to use each other's strengths as an advantage, all the while trying to stop a serial killer who has changed methodologies and victimologies along the way -- so they need to know *why.*
This is a tricky book to review without giving spoilers. Suffice it to say, we see a number of San Francisco neighborhoods and landmarks that I knew and loved when I lived in the City, and it's a fast-paced tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
There's chemistry between Abby and Kyle ... and it's complicated for a lot of reasons. It helps them work well together, but they struggle to keep things professional. That felt real for me. They learn to use each other's strengths as an advantage, all the while trying to stop a serial killer who has changed methodologies and victimologies along the way -- so they need to know *why.*
This is a tricky book to review without giving spoilers. Suffice it to say, we see a number of San Francisco neighborhoods and landmarks that I knew and loved when I lived in the City, and it's a fast-paced tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
November 4, 2013
The petite Chinese FBI agent Abby Kane is back for another entertaining mystery. That is a very good thing for us and a reason for those unfamiliar with Ty Hutchinson to get on board reading this fine author.
Russian Hill refers to a San Francisco neighborhood. Most of this story takes place in Chinatown where Abby and a SFPD detective team up to solve an apparent series of serial killer murders. I particularly enjoy the continuous action whether it be on the job or at home with her kids and Po Po. Even the normally mundane events of home life are entertaining.
Ty has crafted a character that the reader will fully understand and care about. She is not the invincible physically super woman of so many heroines. Abby is a woman that uses her fine mind to transcend her physical limitations. She is, however, the mental equal (or more) of the men that surround her.
What is really great about this book is a two-fer. I mentioned the serial killer theme. That takes about two thirds of the story and is a great stand alone yarn. Once solved, Abby (and only Abby) realizes that there is a subplot. I won't create a spoiler so you will have to read this excellent book to find out.
My recommendation is to get some good green oolong tea, and few rice cakes, and sit back and start reading.
Russian Hill refers to a San Francisco neighborhood. Most of this story takes place in Chinatown where Abby and a SFPD detective team up to solve an apparent series of serial killer murders. I particularly enjoy the continuous action whether it be on the job or at home with her kids and Po Po. Even the normally mundane events of home life are entertaining.
Ty has crafted a character that the reader will fully understand and care about. She is not the invincible physically super woman of so many heroines. Abby is a woman that uses her fine mind to transcend her physical limitations. She is, however, the mental equal (or more) of the men that surround her.
What is really great about this book is a two-fer. I mentioned the serial killer theme. That takes about two thirds of the story and is a great stand alone yarn. Once solved, Abby (and only Abby) realizes that there is a subplot. I won't create a spoiler so you will have to read this excellent book to find out.
My recommendation is to get some good green oolong tea, and few rice cakes, and sit back and start reading.
May 7, 2016
I'm a huge fan of Ty Hutchinson's books. This one does not disappoint. The story not only brings you in but the characters are entertaining. If you liked the Darby books then you'll like these.
Have you ever wondered if there are interactive games online for people that may not be the most upstanding citizens? Maybe even a site that sends people on a murderous scavenger hunt of sorts? Well, this book may in fact make that seem much more likely. Abby Kane is on a case trying to catch a pair of cat and mousers who are taking digital clues and playing a deadly game in the Chinatown area of San Francisco. Agent Kane has stumbled upon something nobody imagined.
Have you ever wondered if there are interactive games online for people that may not be the most upstanding citizens? Maybe even a site that sends people on a murderous scavenger hunt of sorts? Well, this book may in fact make that seem much more likely. Abby Kane is on a case trying to catch a pair of cat and mousers who are taking digital clues and playing a deadly game in the Chinatown area of San Francisco. Agent Kane has stumbled upon something nobody imagined.
July 13, 2017
This book is a great continuance to a fast-paced thriller series. I actually read the books a little out of order, this is the 4th book I have read in this series. I read Kowloon Bay, now called #6, third and then circled back to this one as the fourth book.
Russian Hill is the first book in the Chasing Chinatown trilogy, which is a trilogy inside the larger series. I actually am pleased with the order in which I read them because I gained so much additional insight into Abby and her deceased husband through reading Kowloon Bay. I would say that you should definitely read at least the first two books in this series before starting this one. I think if you just started here, planning to read the Chasing Chinatown trilogy, you would miss a lot of the crucial character development for Abby; who's life you become more clear of through each book.
This book was fast-paced and hard-hitting from the very start, as I have found all of the books in the series to be. I love Abby, she is a unique character with a lot of kick-ass qualities but also a vulnerable side that I find fairly related. There are some gritty sexual subjects in these books but not in an obscene way. I feel like any sexual elements included add to the story line, they are not just there to shock the reader, there is a point; by this, I don't really mean sex scenes, although there is at least one memorable one involving a well-endowed "call man", but sexual subjects involving fetishes and the like. Again, this does add to the point of the story but I get why some people may be turned off by it.
I love Ty Hutchinson's writing style, for me, it is realistic and I am always left wanting more. The ending to this was great and I cannot wait to continue with the series! If you like strong female characters, murder, mystery and intrigue, you should definitely give Abby Kane a go!
Russian Hill is the first book in the Chasing Chinatown trilogy, which is a trilogy inside the larger series. I actually am pleased with the order in which I read them because I gained so much additional insight into Abby and her deceased husband through reading Kowloon Bay. I would say that you should definitely read at least the first two books in this series before starting this one. I think if you just started here, planning to read the Chasing Chinatown trilogy, you would miss a lot of the crucial character development for Abby; who's life you become more clear of through each book.
This book was fast-paced and hard-hitting from the very start, as I have found all of the books in the series to be. I love Abby, she is a unique character with a lot of kick-ass qualities but also a vulnerable side that I find fairly related. There are some gritty sexual subjects in these books but not in an obscene way. I feel like any sexual elements included add to the story line, they are not just there to shock the reader, there is a point; by this, I don't really mean sex scenes, although there is at least one memorable one involving a well-endowed "call man", but sexual subjects involving fetishes and the like. Again, this does add to the point of the story but I get why some people may be turned off by it.
I love Ty Hutchinson's writing style, for me, it is realistic and I am always left wanting more. The ending to this was great and I cannot wait to continue with the series! If you like strong female characters, murder, mystery and intrigue, you should definitely give Abby Kane a go!
July 7, 2018
Set in San Francisco, this is one of a series of stories about Abby Kane, a petite Chinese-American FBI agent who can look natural in Chinatown. In many ways it's like other crime dramas with a killer on the loose and the FBI following, but it is well written and shows an intimate knowledge of the culture and location that makes the story ring true.
Like most stories, it is the main character who makes the reader want to know what happens. She is easily likeable and watching how she handles the case and encounters with other law enforcement personnel keeps interest. While I'm not a big reader of crime drama, I enjoyed watching her work out subtle clues about the killer and how she tried to get inside their head.
There was one plot point that didn't make a lot of sense, but I don't want to give spoilers. Just an opportunity for a witness to provide vital information when he had nothing to lose and no reason to withhold it anymore.
Overall the story kept me interested and if I was more into reading crime drama, I would probably read more of this series. I may read at least one more as the setting in San Francisco is what attracted me in the first place.
The only niggle is that a few loose ends were left to entice the reader to buy two more books in the sequential series. I'm not going to bite as I feel I've gone as far as I want to with this storyline and as I said, crime drama isn't among my preferred genres. However, the writing is excellent and I have a soft spot for San Francisco, so I may well read one of the author's other books.
Like most stories, it is the main character who makes the reader want to know what happens. She is easily likeable and watching how she handles the case and encounters with other law enforcement personnel keeps interest. While I'm not a big reader of crime drama, I enjoyed watching her work out subtle clues about the killer and how she tried to get inside their head.
There was one plot point that didn't make a lot of sense, but I don't want to give spoilers. Just an opportunity for a witness to provide vital information when he had nothing to lose and no reason to withhold it anymore.
Overall the story kept me interested and if I was more into reading crime drama, I would probably read more of this series. I may read at least one more as the setting in San Francisco is what attracted me in the first place.
The only niggle is that a few loose ends were left to entice the reader to buy two more books in the sequential series. I'm not going to bite as I feel I've gone as far as I want to with this storyline and as I said, crime drama isn't among my preferred genres. However, the writing is excellent and I have a soft spot for San Francisco, so I may well read one of the author's other books.
March 21, 2019
Brilliant book, kept me glued with suspense the two agents where well written as was whole story line, if you like serial killers and agents well worth a read and huge suspense to get to the end
Thank u I truely loved , 😍
Thank u I truely loved , 😍
August 30, 2021
I am not one to read thrillers, but I read this one, and became immersed in the plot. I will definitely read the sequel. This book was just as exciting, as a roller coaster ride. I will definitely read more of this genre, in the future.
April 27, 2018
Interesting storyline and great characters. Will read more by Hutchinson. Would like more background on main characters.
March 17, 2016
This is the first book in the three part Chasing Chinatown series, beginning in San Francisco.
Is there a connection between a case the SFPD is investigating and the death of a hiker. FBI Agent believes there is and joins forces with Kang to find the killer.
Is there a connection between a case the SFPD is investigating and the death of a hiker. FBI Agent believes there is and joins forces with Kang to find the killer.
September 18, 2016
Not quite so stereotypical. Main character could be better written but not as terrible as some. Again, enjoyed because I am familiar with the geographical area which adds to the ability to "see" the story.
March 17, 2015
Excellent Lady Cop book. The plot is intricate and the people interesting -- all of them. Ty Hutchinson definitely goes on my Buy Next Book author list.
Want to read
September 3, 2015Free 09-03-15 (Killer v. Investigator Thriller)
http://www.amazon.com/Russian-Hill-Ab...
http://www.amazon.com/Russian-Hill-Ab...
December 28, 2019
2.5/5
Likeable characters in general. Starts off well. Good idea for the story.
Some unnecessary additions to the story, like the taxi driver. A bit gory at times and predictable.
Likeable characters in general. Starts off well. Good idea for the story.
Some unnecessary additions to the story, like the taxi driver. A bit gory at times and predictable.
July 18, 2017
San Francisco, CA. Jerry Carlson (husband) & Vicki Carlson (wife) were getting ready to eat at the Top of the Mark.
The 2 loved making movies. Jerry was also the camera man.
Chinatown. Ryan, Abby & Lucy (daughter) took Po Po (mother-in-law) out for lunch.
The Triads Chinese gang tend to control the neighborhood.
A female body was found at Muir Woods (Mount Tamalpais).
The National Park Service are doing their part in the investigation also.
Philip Burton Federal Building. FBI SAC Scott Reilly assigned FBI SA Abby Kane (former Hong Kong PD) to the case of Piper Taylor (23, Ohio St. U).
Captain Richard Cavanaugh (SFPD, Central District) wanted to know how Detective Kyle Kang (SFPDCD, Personal Crimes Division) & Detective Pete Sokolov (Russian, SFPDCD, Personal Crimes Division) were coming on the murderer cases.
1st. victim; Fay Park (Russian Hill) & 2nd. Victim; (A/A, Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39).
FBI SAC Reilly also asked FBI SA Kane to help out with the 2 murder cases in SF.
What did FBI SA Kane & Detective Kang find out from Judy Huff (shop keeper)?
The Marin Independent Journal, & Sausalito MarinScope, had a name for the murderer now: Cotton Candy Killer.
There were riddles to solve but not from Chinese fortune cookies.
Would the killer be caught & brought to justice?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written FBI thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great FBI thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The 2 loved making movies. Jerry was also the camera man.
Chinatown. Ryan, Abby & Lucy (daughter) took Po Po (mother-in-law) out for lunch.
The Triads Chinese gang tend to control the neighborhood.
A female body was found at Muir Woods (Mount Tamalpais).
The National Park Service are doing their part in the investigation also.
Philip Burton Federal Building. FBI SAC Scott Reilly assigned FBI SA Abby Kane (former Hong Kong PD) to the case of Piper Taylor (23, Ohio St. U).
Captain Richard Cavanaugh (SFPD, Central District) wanted to know how Detective Kyle Kang (SFPDCD, Personal Crimes Division) & Detective Pete Sokolov (Russian, SFPDCD, Personal Crimes Division) were coming on the murderer cases.
1st. victim; Fay Park (Russian Hill) & 2nd. Victim; (A/A, Fisherman’s Wharf/Pier 39).
FBI SAC Reilly also asked FBI SA Kane to help out with the 2 murder cases in SF.
What did FBI SA Kane & Detective Kang find out from Judy Huff (shop keeper)?
The Marin Independent Journal, & Sausalito MarinScope, had a name for the murderer now: Cotton Candy Killer.
There were riddles to solve but not from Chinese fortune cookies.
Would the killer be caught & brought to justice?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written FBI thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great FBI thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
May 18, 2024
Thank you to Nebula of Books and Ty Hutchinson @tyhutchinson for this free ecopy.
“Russian Hill” (Abby Kane #3)(also #1 in the Chasing Chinatown trilogy) by Tyson Hutchinson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Thriller. Location: San Francisco, California, USA. Time: Present.
THE SERIES: Abby Kane (Chinese/Irish ethnicity) spent her early detective career chasing serial killers and crime triads in Hong Kong, China. After husband Peng Yee’s mysterious death (6 months after they wed), Abby moves her stepchildren Ryan and Lucy (by this book 9 and 6 1/2), and mother-in-law Po Po to San Francisco, California. More time for hands-on parenting (Operation Better Mother). What she gets instead is a job with the FBI solving their most baffling cases.
THIS BOOK: Jerry and Vicki Carlson are a charming, fun-loving married couple on vacation. They’re also a psychopath and a sociopath. They’re currently busy defacing San Francisco’s beloved tourist attractions with body parts. San Francisco Police Department asks the FBI for help. Abby sees a connection between the City murders of a man (missing teeth) and a woman (missing finger), and Piper Taylor (23), found dead in Muir Woods near Sausalito. She wonders if the murderers are playing a real-life game to an audience. Abby and SFPD Detective Kyle Kang rush back and forth from Sausalito and the City. They may need to join the game to take it down.
Author Hutchinson has written a serial killer thriller with a unique motivation. He narrates it from Abby’s point of view-she’s seen a lot of horrific cases in her short career. Hutchinson keeps the tension high with a twisty plot. Fast-paced and action-filled like Patterson and Baldacci. And yes, male-written female characters like theirs. But the twisty plot will keep your interest, I can’t wait to read #4, and it’s 5 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
“Russian Hill” (Abby Kane #3)(also #1 in the Chasing Chinatown trilogy) by Tyson Hutchinson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Thriller. Location: San Francisco, California, USA. Time: Present.
THE SERIES: Abby Kane (Chinese/Irish ethnicity) spent her early detective career chasing serial killers and crime triads in Hong Kong, China. After husband Peng Yee’s mysterious death (6 months after they wed), Abby moves her stepchildren Ryan and Lucy (by this book 9 and 6 1/2), and mother-in-law Po Po to San Francisco, California. More time for hands-on parenting (Operation Better Mother). What she gets instead is a job with the FBI solving their most baffling cases.
THIS BOOK: Jerry and Vicki Carlson are a charming, fun-loving married couple on vacation. They’re also a psychopath and a sociopath. They’re currently busy defacing San Francisco’s beloved tourist attractions with body parts. San Francisco Police Department asks the FBI for help. Abby sees a connection between the City murders of a man (missing teeth) and a woman (missing finger), and Piper Taylor (23), found dead in Muir Woods near Sausalito. She wonders if the murderers are playing a real-life game to an audience. Abby and SFPD Detective Kyle Kang rush back and forth from Sausalito and the City. They may need to join the game to take it down.
Author Hutchinson has written a serial killer thriller with a unique motivation. He narrates it from Abby’s point of view-she’s seen a lot of horrific cases in her short career. Hutchinson keeps the tension high with a twisty plot. Fast-paced and action-filled like Patterson and Baldacci. And yes, male-written female characters like theirs. But the twisty plot will keep your interest, I can’t wait to read #4, and it’s 5 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
June 23, 2020
Too Over the Top in Too Many Directions
I really wanted to like this one more as the main plotline of the story was rather intriguing - the serial killer methodology one. Therein is probably the biggest problem with the book; if you have to specify which plotline, there's probably too much going on. I am all for a longer book when it is building the character's, well, character, but I just couldn't really make a connection with any character in the book feeling realistic. I am also all for a campy, over the top storyline, even if it is unintentionally so, but the camp was missing. While the graphic sex and violence didn't bother me at all, if you are sensitive to those things, this definitely is not the book for you. It does end on a somewhat manufactured cliffhanger, which is to be expected when you see trilogy in the title. Perhaps if the next book was a KU title or available through Libby (library) I would continue on with the series, but weighing my book budget against my investment in what I have already read, the scale doesn't tip in that direction. If it had a bigger cliffhanger, and I can see exactly where that could have played much better to induce me to continue, I would have begrudgingly picked up the next installment immediately. I had problems buying the plot pacing up to that pivotal place, but could overlook them because it is fictional. After that point I really felt lost trying to bring everything together.
But I am still giving three stars because I don't regret the read. I think a good content editor could easily bring this up to at least a 4 star read. If you are looking for a fast paced thriller to pass a few hours with you could do much worse.
I really wanted to like this one more as the main plotline of the story was rather intriguing - the serial killer methodology one. Therein is probably the biggest problem with the book; if you have to specify which plotline, there's probably too much going on. I am all for a longer book when it is building the character's, well, character, but I just couldn't really make a connection with any character in the book feeling realistic. I am also all for a campy, over the top storyline, even if it is unintentionally so, but the camp was missing. While the graphic sex and violence didn't bother me at all, if you are sensitive to those things, this definitely is not the book for you. It does end on a somewhat manufactured cliffhanger, which is to be expected when you see trilogy in the title. Perhaps if the next book was a KU title or available through Libby (library) I would continue on with the series, but weighing my book budget against my investment in what I have already read, the scale doesn't tip in that direction. If it had a bigger cliffhanger, and I can see exactly where that could have played much better to induce me to continue, I would have begrudgingly picked up the next installment immediately. I had problems buying the plot pacing up to that pivotal place, but could overlook them because it is fictional. After that point I really felt lost trying to bring everything together.
But I am still giving three stars because I don't regret the read. I think a good content editor could easily bring this up to at least a 4 star read. If you are looking for a fast paced thriller to pass a few hours with you could do much worse.
October 22, 2016
The Game is Murder
This first novel in a trilogy starts with a couple celebrating the fun they had that day in and around San Francisco. As they download the pictures and videos they took in Muir Woods with a young woman they just met that day, you realize things are definitely not what they seem.
FBI Agent Abby Kane is assigned to a murder case involving a body found in Muir Woods. San Francisco detectives Kyle Kang and Pete Sokolov are investigating two unusual murders of their own and suspect they may have a serial killer on their hands. Abby and the two detectives join forces to work these murders together, until Pete is assigned to another case and it's just Abby and Kyle working together. When another bizarre murder occurs, they know they are chasing a very accomplished serial killer who has left very few clues to follow. And the potential attraction between them only complicates things.
From the beginning, this very inventive plot grabs you and doesn't let go. The sheer audacity of the motive for the murders is ingenious and provides plenty of twists, including the involvement of the Chinese Triad and a multi-national computer game. Also, the backgrounds of Abby and Kyle and the setting of San Francisco itself provide an added bonus of giving the reader a glimpse into the culture, sights and history of the "City by the Bay." I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy!
This first novel in a trilogy starts with a couple celebrating the fun they had that day in and around San Francisco. As they download the pictures and videos they took in Muir Woods with a young woman they just met that day, you realize things are definitely not what they seem.
FBI Agent Abby Kane is assigned to a murder case involving a body found in Muir Woods. San Francisco detectives Kyle Kang and Pete Sokolov are investigating two unusual murders of their own and suspect they may have a serial killer on their hands. Abby and the two detectives join forces to work these murders together, until Pete is assigned to another case and it's just Abby and Kyle working together. When another bizarre murder occurs, they know they are chasing a very accomplished serial killer who has left very few clues to follow. And the potential attraction between them only complicates things.
From the beginning, this very inventive plot grabs you and doesn't let go. The sheer audacity of the motive for the murders is ingenious and provides plenty of twists, including the involvement of the Chinese Triad and a multi-national computer game. Also, the backgrounds of Abby and Kyle and the setting of San Francisco itself provide an added bonus of giving the reader a glimpse into the culture, sights and history of the "City by the Bay." I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy!
August 27, 2025
This book is the shorter of the 3 I have read so far but it has taken me so long to get through it.
There is quite graphic content in this one, such as decapitation, heart removals etc so if that's something you don't want to read then I'd maybe avoid this one. Another book that I have enjoyed but maybe not so much as the other ones, this one had such an interesting concept which revolved around a game made for killers all over the world - where they get 5 attractions in one specific place before they get to move to another place. Abby is assigned to this case to try and determine who committed these crimes and for what reason, however at this point, she did not know about the game. She is then partnered with another agent named Kyle Kang and they work together to get to the bottom of it.
Abby is still as fierce and determined as ever, showing she isn't afraid of anyone and can defend herself. Although, she still struggles to find that balance between working and family life.
Kang has a similar personality to Abby, although, he doesn't always believe everything Abby says and often doubts her. Him and Abby end up working well together.
It was a good read, however, as stated earlier I don't think it was one of my favourites. I was a bit put off by the graphic content.
There is quite graphic content in this one, such as decapitation, heart removals etc so if that's something you don't want to read then I'd maybe avoid this one. Another book that I have enjoyed but maybe not so much as the other ones, this one had such an interesting concept which revolved around a game made for killers all over the world - where they get 5 attractions in one specific place before they get to move to another place. Abby is assigned to this case to try and determine who committed these crimes and for what reason, however at this point, she did not know about the game. She is then partnered with another agent named Kyle Kang and they work together to get to the bottom of it.
Abby is still as fierce and determined as ever, showing she isn't afraid of anyone and can defend herself. Although, she still struggles to find that balance between working and family life.
Kang has a similar personality to Abby, although, he doesn't always believe everything Abby says and often doubts her. Him and Abby end up working well together.
It was a good read, however, as stated earlier I don't think it was one of my favourites. I was a bit put off by the graphic content.
December 2, 2017
I've seen people playing Pokemon watching their cell phones as they roam around a mall or park. I have not played it myself.
As this book progressed, I had the impression that a computer game was being played, and it was something like Pokemon except you killed real people to play the game, not just on the game, and uploaded photos of your deeds, scored points, and did it all over again in another city. Where did the money come from to support their lifestyle? I did not figure that out. The FBI and SFPD team up to catch this couple, and then bring down the underworld boss of Chinatown in San Francisco. At the very end of the book, something creative happens which is very serious and leads to a series by the author.
The action in this book is hard to beat, it's pretty well done. I would have rated it higher but I thought some of the dialog in certain situaions was not up to par. However, this is an enjoyable read.
I'm glad this kind of stuff doesn't happen in the real world.
(Or does it?)
As this book progressed, I had the impression that a computer game was being played, and it was something like Pokemon except you killed real people to play the game, not just on the game, and uploaded photos of your deeds, scored points, and did it all over again in another city. Where did the money come from to support their lifestyle? I did not figure that out. The FBI and SFPD team up to catch this couple, and then bring down the underworld boss of Chinatown in San Francisco. At the very end of the book, something creative happens which is very serious and leads to a series by the author.
The action in this book is hard to beat, it's pretty well done. I would have rated it higher but I thought some of the dialog in certain situaions was not up to par. However, this is an enjoyable read.
I'm glad this kind of stuff doesn't happen in the real world.
(Or does it?)
March 1, 2018
This is a really good fast paced crime thriller that throws in a nice little twist of an internet game guiding serial killers and setting them competing against each other. The kills are grusome and inventive, as is the idea of the game itself. I will admit though that I did find Abby Kane a little annoying, or flat, or shallow, there was something about her that I didn't get on with. I can't quite put my finger on what but there were a few moments when I found myself mentally (and physically) rolling my eyes at things she says or does. The rest of the time she is a great character but there are moments when that slips and she becomes a 'typical' female and becomes helpless and in need of a man (okay maybe that's it). Overall though I enjoyed this and will be on the look out for the rest of the series.
August 4, 2018
I purchased this book or obtained it as a free book over a year and some ago. I kept putting off reading it as it never made it to the top of my list. I finally decided to take a chance and read it. I am glad I did. Even though it is the third book in the overall series, it can be read without the two before it. It plot was interesting and fast paced, the main character was focused and the story was front and center, not any personal relationships or dramas. The only reason I did not give this book 5 stars is that I thought at times, the main character had things come to her too easily with regards to her role in the FBI. All in all though, a great read and I will definitely read the other two books in this trilogy.
January 28, 2018
Sometimes, when a book relies heavily on its setting to work, it can be pretty dull, but thankfully this was not one of those books. San Francisco was about as much of a character as any of the humans, it seemed. It took a few chapters to get into it, but once I did I was really hooked. It must be stories about games that do it for me. I also liked having so many chapters from Vicki and Jerry's point of view. They were terrible, but fascinating to read about, and it was a great change of pace, not having a whodunit conundrum that isn't revealed until the end. It was more about cheering Abby and Kyle on as they chased them down, and that was more than I could ask for from a freebie.
June 7, 2019
Mr. Hutchinson has a KEEPER here.
This addition to the Abby Kane series is a page turner. This local increase of seemingly unrelated events will become "GLOBAL!" The leg work to complete and compete in finding the Carlson's is a tale woven in the fabric of such a wonderful story! The characters are very strong and believable, flawed and by happenstance caught by the FBI combined with the SFPD. Abby Kane is showing sides of herself, that were not reviled in early editions. Family and other characters are coming together in greater detail!
I look forward to starting at the beginning with FBI Kane. I urge you to take a peek, I did and really enjoyed it..
Chuck Mercik
This addition to the Abby Kane series is a page turner. This local increase of seemingly unrelated events will become "GLOBAL!" The leg work to complete and compete in finding the Carlson's is a tale woven in the fabric of such a wonderful story! The characters are very strong and believable, flawed and by happenstance caught by the FBI combined with the SFPD. Abby Kane is showing sides of herself, that were not reviled in early editions. Family and other characters are coming together in greater detail!
I look forward to starting at the beginning with FBI Kane. I urge you to take a peek, I did and really enjoyed it..
Chuck Mercik
October 23, 2018
This took me awhile to read because I have it on my phone, and I often don't think about reading books while I'm in line. Once I got into the book I had a hard time putting it down. I ranked it as a four because there were sometimes I had a hard time visualizing and possibly to my lack of knowledge in the area. I really enjoyed this book and looking forward to more of Hutchinson's work. Also Kyle shouldn't have been so moody about Green. Also wondering if the previous books address Abby's husband's death.
August 27, 2019
Author, Ty Hutchison’s ‘Russian Hill’ is a totally twisted, wicked case for FBI agent Abbey Kane to solve. A husband and wife team are thrill killers playing a game solving riddles. What they do with the riddles and how they prove their answers creates a storyline that tops any serial killers I’ve read!
Abbey’s investigation leads to case closed or she thinks it’s over, until she makes an incredible discovery on line. This book will make the hairs on your neck stand up and is a must read for suspenseful thriller fans.
Abbey’s investigation leads to case closed or she thinks it’s over, until she makes an incredible discovery on line. This book will make the hairs on your neck stand up and is a must read for suspenseful thriller fans.
February 19, 2024
Gamer's Delight
In this installment of the Abby Kane series, we have new players from SFPD, with Detective Kang contributing a lot to the action both on and off the case.
What's more exciting than white collar cases? Crimes against San Francisco, her beauty, and her history. Using everything good about the city and bastardizing it is the name of the game, and that angers Kang and Kane, leading them on a dangerous mission to catch a killer.
Who wins, and who loses? Read on to find out!
In this installment of the Abby Kane series, we have new players from SFPD, with Detective Kang contributing a lot to the action both on and off the case.
What's more exciting than white collar cases? Crimes against San Francisco, her beauty, and her history. Using everything good about the city and bastardizing it is the name of the game, and that angers Kang and Kane, leading them on a dangerous mission to catch a killer.
Who wins, and who loses? Read on to find out!
January 22, 2017
As much as i hate book serials that leave stories open ended at the end of each "book", this one does a good job finding a way of doing it while still resolving the main crime that's the focus of the book. Here we have a chinese fbi agent teamed with a chinese police detective trying to solve a serial murder in san francisco. They do so, only to find something bigger is behind it all. So, it was an ok book. Not spell binding, but it kept me reading.
August 5, 2017
It was good to see an FBI agent and a Police detective getting along for a change. Sometimes there is so much bickering going on, it takes away from the story.
Abby Kane is the FBI agent and Kyle Lang is the SF police detective. The two nut cases they are trying to catch would give any sane person grave nightmares.
Ty Hutchinson does a fine job of bringing his characters to life. I'm definitely going to be reading more of the Abby Kane books.
Abby Kane is the FBI agent and Kyle Lang is the SF police detective. The two nut cases they are trying to catch would give any sane person grave nightmares.
Ty Hutchinson does a fine job of bringing his characters to life. I'm definitely going to be reading more of the Abby Kane books.
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