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Jon Stanton Thrillers #4
Arsonist
Evil is Released Onto the Streets of San Diego...
A series of deadly fires rages across the cityscape, claiming the lives of entire families. Helpless to stop the fires, the SDPD assigns their most famous detective, Jon Stanton, to the case. The evidence points him to a single arsonist committing the horrendous acts. But with a troubled young girl as his only credible witness, Stanton is running out of time.
A Bureaucracy that Sets a Killer Free...
The San Diego PD's in-house arson investigator does not believe the fires correspond to the work of an arsonist and impedes the investigation into the murders. Stanton is left on his own to find the deadliest and most powerful opponent he has ever faced . . .
A series of deadly fires rages across the cityscape, claiming the lives of entire families. Helpless to stop the fires, the SDPD assigns their most famous detective, Jon Stanton, to the case. The evidence points him to a single arsonist committing the horrendous acts. But with a troubled young girl as his only credible witness, Stanton is running out of time.
A Bureaucracy that Sets a Killer Free...
The San Diego PD's in-house arson investigator does not believe the fires correspond to the work of an arsonist and impedes the investigation into the murders. Stanton is left on his own to find the deadliest and most powerful opponent he has ever faced . . .
365 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2012
692 people are currently reading
578 people want to read
About the author
Victor Methos
75 books2,089 followersVictor Methos is the Edgar Award nominated bestselling author of over forty novels. He has been a criminal and civil rights lawyer in the Mountain West, conducting over 100 trials, and produces two books a year with his dog Fraiser by his side.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
November 12, 2025
Tough subject
Fast read packed with action and suspense. Hard topic and the subject is a difficult one at best. I enjoyed this and found it hard to put down.
Fast read packed with action and suspense. Hard topic and the subject is a difficult one at best. I enjoyed this and found it hard to put down.
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August 4, 2019On fire 🔥🔥🔥
This series is getting better with each book. They've all grabbed my attention from the first pages and this instalment is no different. Despite the reader knowing the identify of the killer from the outset, there's a real sense of menace and urgency to this plot. Some reviews claim it to be too graphic but I felt it added character to the bad guy. As did the use, again complained about, of foul language so often used by Stanton's new partner. It really put meat on the bones for him. He's a rogue but a loveable one and the total opposite to Stanton. The banter between them worked and was enjoyable so I hope they're paired together in further novels. If you've read all the preceding books you may have felt, as I did, that Stanton's ex wife was a hindrance to the plot. She does get mentioned but thankfully that's all. The surfing is still there, why I don't know, but they're short clips. Best of all there's no corruption, that angle was used too much before. Overall: Best in the series so far with a fantastic ending and don't let opinions of bible preaching put you off. It's controlled and I think used for characterisation purposes only.
This series is getting better with each book. They've all grabbed my attention from the first pages and this instalment is no different. Despite the reader knowing the identify of the killer from the outset, there's a real sense of menace and urgency to this plot. Some reviews claim it to be too graphic but I felt it added character to the bad guy. As did the use, again complained about, of foul language so often used by Stanton's new partner. It really put meat on the bones for him. He's a rogue but a loveable one and the total opposite to Stanton. The banter between them worked and was enjoyable so I hope they're paired together in further novels. If you've read all the preceding books you may have felt, as I did, that Stanton's ex wife was a hindrance to the plot. She does get mentioned but thankfully that's all. The surfing is still there, why I don't know, but they're short clips. Best of all there's no corruption, that angle was used too much before. Overall: Best in the series so far with a fantastic ending and don't let opinions of bible preaching put you off. It's controlled and I think used for characterisation purposes only.
May 9, 2023
'"Perhaps the job you have doesn't define you, but maybe your choice for going into it does."'
Ok. I think this was one of the better ones in the series. Things are lookin' up. Onto the next one...
Ok. I think this was one of the better ones in the series. Things are lookin' up. Onto the next one...
August 25, 2013
Arsonist is set in San Diego. A sadistic individual is torturing and killing families, who die terrible deaths in house fires. SDPD must determine if the fires are arson and who is setting them. Jon Stanton is assigned the case. The plot line and setting immediately grabbed the readers attention. Jon Stanton is challenged by this case, which sets the reader up to expect a tricky thriller.
As the plot unravels, part of that expectation is fulfilled. Stanton runs into road blocks, which is realistic in a murder case. It's refreshing to read about a cop who struggles to solve a case and makes mistakes along the way. The story has a tendency to jump around a bit, which makes it difficult to follow in places.
Gunn's bad cop character is a total contrast to Stanton's, and the relationship between the two is well balanced and interesting. The story moves at a quick pace. Though the suspense never really reaches its full potential, the plot is interesting. We never learn the killer's true motives. A little insight into why he kills would have added the extra chill factor that appeared to be missing throughout the book.
The end arrives quickly and leaves us with unanswered questions. 3.5 stars
As the plot unravels, part of that expectation is fulfilled. Stanton runs into road blocks, which is realistic in a murder case. It's refreshing to read about a cop who struggles to solve a case and makes mistakes along the way. The story has a tendency to jump around a bit, which makes it difficult to follow in places.
Gunn's bad cop character is a total contrast to Stanton's, and the relationship between the two is well balanced and interesting. The story moves at a quick pace. Though the suspense never really reaches its full potential, the plot is interesting. We never learn the killer's true motives. A little insight into why he kills would have added the extra chill factor that appeared to be missing throughout the book.
The end arrives quickly and leaves us with unanswered questions. 3.5 stars
May 31, 2018
Amazing!
I am amazed at the novels in this series. I have read over a thousand authors in different categories, and in mystery and suspense this series is in the top 5 percent. If you like police novels and enjoy trying to figure out the end. This author is the best. The characters he develops are so true to life.
I am amazed at the novels in this series. I have read over a thousand authors in different categories, and in mystery and suspense this series is in the top 5 percent. If you like police novels and enjoy trying to figure out the end. This author is the best. The characters he develops are so true to life.
February 28, 2025
Riveting
Victor Methos writes stories that once you start reading, you can't stop until it's over. The characters are interesting, and he keeps you engaged the whole time. I can't wait to read the next installment.
Victor Methos writes stories that once you start reading, you can't stop until it's over. The characters are interesting, and he keeps you engaged the whole time. I can't wait to read the next installment.
June 8, 2025
I just love Jon Stanton and his dealings with some very sick people, terrifyingly brilliant.
February 5, 2017
This Jon Stanton character intrigues me. He’s a Mormon, he doesn’t drink and he respects the Sabbath. He holds on to his belief because that’s what keeps him sane in his job that is filled with violence. For me the 4th book, Arsonist, was a bit unbalanced, in that sense that there was just too much insanity and evil and not enough goodness to even it out. It’s truly as simple as that.
Here, Jon is working in Robbery-Homicide out of San Diego PD, when he’s confronted with an arsonist. Well it takes him awhile to figure it out because, all in all, I don’t think the SDPD is doing a great job of resolving anything. On the contrary, it seems that the department is filled with corrupt police officers. Take Jon’s new partner, Stephen Gunn, for instance, he’s a racketeering, drinking violent man, who shouldn’t be doing this job.
I’m really torn because these books could be great, but they falter and can’t make good.
Furthermore I don’t like books who spend too much time in the presence of the perpetrator. I couldn’t stand this arsonist, this psychopath. I prefer a good constructed story only viewed from the eyes of the investigators.
Here, Jon is working in Robbery-Homicide out of San Diego PD, when he’s confronted with an arsonist. Well it takes him awhile to figure it out because, all in all, I don’t think the SDPD is doing a great job of resolving anything. On the contrary, it seems that the department is filled with corrupt police officers. Take Jon’s new partner, Stephen Gunn, for instance, he’s a racketeering, drinking violent man, who shouldn’t be doing this job.
I’m really torn because these books could be great, but they falter and can’t make good.
Furthermore I don’t like books who spend too much time in the presence of the perpetrator. I couldn’t stand this arsonist, this psychopath. I prefer a good constructed story only viewed from the eyes of the investigators.
September 7, 2013
I really enjoyed the book until it came to the parts where there was speaking parts. It was so stupid and really? I need to read "Take our your tampon" 6 times in just a few pages? The concept of the book was good the plot was good. It was just that when a character opened his/her mouth stupid came out almost always.
October 23, 2019
I like this character a lot, but might be wearying of corrupt cops and increasingly demonic bad guys. Will take a breather on further books, unless the character branches out to something else.
September 9, 2019
I love the books written by Victor Methos and this one is very well done. You know who did it but you can't figure out how he is getting away so easily. The web is woven tightly and Jon figures out it is arson and not simple accidental fires where whole families are killed. He sees that the fire inspector is missing the clues so he brings in someone he knows to be honest and a good investigator. He ignores his boss who tells him to quit pursuing the case and finds the arsonist. All of these books in this series so far make me wonder why anyone would want to be a detective when they could be a professor. Jon Stanton likes to solve problems and he is addicted to the hunt. Take a chance on Methos and you will be caught up in his style. Every single book he has written has grabbed me at the beginning and not let go until the end.
September 4, 2020
Another Great Read
The bad guys are really bad in Methos’ stories. Jon Stanton is not your typical hero. Probably why I like this nook so much. We learn more about Stanton’s skills as an investigator in this book. We also learn more about what drives him to go against everything important to him to solve these crimes. Someone has to speak on behalf of the victims. Stanton is their man. Hard to put it down once your start. You’re welcome.
The bad guys are really bad in Methos’ stories. Jon Stanton is not your typical hero. Probably why I like this nook so much. We learn more about Stanton’s skills as an investigator in this book. We also learn more about what drives him to go against everything important to him to solve these crimes. Someone has to speak on behalf of the victims. Stanton is their man. Hard to put it down once your start. You’re welcome.
April 20, 2023
This was definitely my favorite Jon Stanton book so far. I said I wish Jon was more of an exciting character in my last review, and he’s still a faithful church goer who doesn’t swear but he did get a little more spicy in this one so it was def an improvement. Also, I love reading from the villain’s POV right off the bat. I don’t have to be distracted about guessing who the killer is, I can just focus on the story. I hope the rest of the series is as strong as this one is!
November 2, 2019
A good read
Victor Methos can take you right to the edge of your seat. Jon Stanton has become a favorite character of mine due to his quirkiness and unbreakable bond in just being human and accepting others in that same light. His firm belief in his religion is another cause for joy. Read for more. You won’t regret it.
Victor Methos can take you right to the edge of your seat. Jon Stanton has become a favorite character of mine due to his quirkiness and unbreakable bond in just being human and accepting others in that same light. His firm belief in his religion is another cause for joy. Read for more. You won’t regret it.
January 24, 2024
Jon Stanton is still a great character
I've read the Jon Stanton series all the way through, seeing
the main characters development. This book has some unusual side lines, and a new controversial partner. Clearly a hostile pairing has resulted. I feel as though the story line was less clear to follow than previous books.
I've read the Jon Stanton series all the way through, seeing
the main characters development. This book has some unusual side lines, and a new controversial partner. Clearly a hostile pairing has resulted. I feel as though the story line was less clear to follow than previous books.
June 19, 2017
Supongo que estará bien para algún tipo de lector, pero prefiero relatos donde se describan personajes creíbles. Noté incongruencias en los diálogos, que a mi parecer reflejaban un trabajo poco desarrollado de sus personajes.
January 2, 2018
Creepy!
This one had me sitting at the edge of my seat from beginning to end! I like Jon Stanton because you know he will solve the mystery while maintaining his integrity while everyone around him seems to lose theirs.
This one had me sitting at the edge of my seat from beginning to end! I like Jon Stanton because you know he will solve the mystery while maintaining his integrity while everyone around him seems to lose theirs.
February 1, 2018
Jon Stanton, my hero!
This story had a gory, evil bad guy. I was thinking I may have to stop reading about Jon Stanton, but since he threw his badge in the ocean, I’m going to have to find out what he will being with his life!
This story had a gory, evil bad guy. I was thinking I may have to stop reading about Jon Stanton, but since he threw his badge in the ocean, I’m going to have to find out what he will being with his life!
November 6, 2018
First time I've read this Authors work & have to say I was impressed! The action flows, the story is extremely well written, Sadly one huge gaffe took the shine off a bit, but not enough to spoil the book. Give it a read, you'll read a lot worse than this.
October 5, 2019
A very scary book!
Reading about all the different ways people hurt others can be terrifying. But I keep doing it because reaching the end of such a book can be terribly satisfying. Another great read by Victor Methos!
Reading about all the different ways people hurt others can be terrifying. But I keep doing it because reaching the end of such a book can be terribly satisfying. Another great read by Victor Methos!
January 21, 2020
I've been working 3rd shift so I can read while the patients are sleeping. Amazing!
But also been AFK so I'm behind on updates. These books are under 300 pages long so only takes like 3 hours to read and I'm blowing through the series like mad.
Jon Stanton is wonderful
But also been AFK so I'm behind on updates. These books are under 300 pages long so only takes like 3 hours to read and I'm blowing through the series like mad.
Jon Stanton is wonderful
February 6, 2020
Arsonist
Well what a ride. I feel cheated because I wanted to keep going. Now is she a killer what happened to Gunn. It has to keep going. Thank u for a good read. Hope there’s more to come.
Well what a ride. I feel cheated because I wanted to keep going. Now is she a killer what happened to Gunn. It has to keep going. Thank u for a good read. Hope there’s more to come.
March 28, 2020
A Great 4th book
This was a great 4th book in the series. The subject matter was different and interesting. Poor Jon Stanton never gets to sleep and runs on fumes while solving cases and tracking down criminals. Can't wait to see what book 5 contains.
This was a great 4th book in the series. The subject matter was different and interesting. Poor Jon Stanton never gets to sleep and runs on fumes while solving cases and tracking down criminals. Can't wait to see what book 5 contains.
April 24, 2020
Another One Bites The Dust
Wowee! Mr. Methos has really stepped up his game with Stanton Book 4. I found this to be one of his best - so far, but I know he's written a lot more than four novels.
Well, I for one intend to keep reading his books because his works have grown on me!
Wowee! Mr. Methos has really stepped up his game with Stanton Book 4. I found this to be one of his best - so far, but I know he's written a lot more than four novels.
Well, I for one intend to keep reading his books because his works have grown on me!
May 13, 2020
Interesting
I like that this book actually had a different plot although the corrupt cop was included it was the central focus of the story like before. I will continue to read this series.
I like that this book actually had a different plot although the corrupt cop was included it was the central focus of the story like before. I will continue to read this series.
May 22, 2020
Another Hit!!!
Can’t get enough of this author, never let’s me down no matter the subject matter. To have a Mormon detective is a new and nice twist to the character, good cop and strong values... hard to come by these days... Well done Victor!!
Can’t get enough of this author, never let’s me down no matter the subject matter. To have a Mormon detective is a new and nice twist to the character, good cop and strong values... hard to come by these days... Well done Victor!!
June 7, 2020
Good book, poor Jon
The villain was a horrible person, one of the worse ever so far.Very heartbreaking read at times. Couldn't image being a police officer and carrying these images with me.
The villain was a horrible person, one of the worse ever so far.Very heartbreaking read at times. Couldn't image being a police officer and carrying these images with me.
November 27, 2020
Another outstanding thriller
A liitle less exciyingthan some. Less metaphysical, but reveals authors skill in maintaining several brief subplots while keeping peinciple story line going
A liitle less exciyingthan some. Less metaphysical, but reveals authors skill in maintaining several brief subplots while keeping peinciple story line going
March 28, 2021
If it wasn’t for bad luck....
How many times can Jon Stanton be beat up or shot? Will he ever find love again? How many times can he quit police work before they won’t take him back? So many questions!
How many times can Jon Stanton be beat up or shot? Will he ever find love again? How many times can he quit police work before they won’t take him back? So many questions!
October 11, 2021
Pretty Fast Moving!
Well a different line of investigation. This is a hard book to put down. It is a story well written and told from the author doing amazing research. I just love this author. A great escape into shall we say an unstable mind.
Well a different line of investigation. This is a hard book to put down. It is a story well written and told from the author doing amazing research. I just love this author. A great escape into shall we say an unstable mind.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews