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Detective Virgil Jones #2
Algorithm and Blues
Twenty years ago James Pope was shot to death in front of his twin children, Nicholas and Nichole, by a rookie cop named Virgil Jones. Now, as young adults, the Pope twins are looking for revenge against the man they hold responsible for the death of their father.
Except twenty years is a long time and Detective Virgil Jones has a few other problems, the shooting of James Pope a distant memory. Virgil is in recovery after being kidnapped and nearly tortured to death on his previous case. He is addicted to prescription pain killers, his life is spinning out of control and the governor has just fired him from his position as lead detective of the Indiana State Police Major Crimes Unit.
The Governor's Chief of Staff wants to privatize the Indiana prison system and plans to fund the construction costs by tapping into the state's unclaimed lottery winnings. There’s only one problem…the construction contract has been awarded to the father of the man responsible for Virgil's kidnapping and torture.
And don't forget the Pope twins. They want a little something else besides revenge. The state's lottery has hit an all-time high and with only days to go before the deadline, no one has claimed the money. The twins have a plan to walk away with the winnings and take down the people who destroyed their childhood all at the same time. But when Nicholas Pope goes missing and his apartment is found covered in blood, Nichole turns to the only person she can think of to help her, the one person who could never turn her away: Virgil Jones.
State of Betrayal is book 2 of the Virgil Jones Mystery Series. The first book in the series, State of Anger is also available exclusively on Amazon.com!
Earlier publication of A State of Betrayal.
Except twenty years is a long time and Detective Virgil Jones has a few other problems, the shooting of James Pope a distant memory. Virgil is in recovery after being kidnapped and nearly tortured to death on his previous case. He is addicted to prescription pain killers, his life is spinning out of control and the governor has just fired him from his position as lead detective of the Indiana State Police Major Crimes Unit.
The Governor's Chief of Staff wants to privatize the Indiana prison system and plans to fund the construction costs by tapping into the state's unclaimed lottery winnings. There’s only one problem…the construction contract has been awarded to the father of the man responsible for Virgil's kidnapping and torture.
And don't forget the Pope twins. They want a little something else besides revenge. The state's lottery has hit an all-time high and with only days to go before the deadline, no one has claimed the money. The twins have a plan to walk away with the winnings and take down the people who destroyed their childhood all at the same time. But when Nicholas Pope goes missing and his apartment is found covered in blood, Nichole turns to the only person she can think of to help her, the one person who could never turn her away: Virgil Jones.
State of Betrayal is book 2 of the Virgil Jones Mystery Series. The first book in the series, State of Anger is also available exclusively on Amazon.com!
Earlier publication of A State of Betrayal.
426 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2013
1296 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Thomas L. Scott
29 books28 followersThomas Scott is the bestselling author of the award winning Virgil Jones Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Series, set in the heartland of the Midwest.
Thomas lives in northern Indiana with his lovely wife, Debra, his children, and his trusty sidekick and writing buddies, Lucy, the cat, and Buster the dog, where he is hard at work on the next Virgil Jones novel.
Thomas lives in northern Indiana with his lovely wife, Debra, his children, and his trusty sidekick and writing buddies, Lucy, the cat, and Buster the dog, where he is hard at work on the next Virgil Jones novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
March 12, 2024
I KNEW VIRGIL WAS HEADED FOR TROUBLED AT THE END OF BK#1 AND I WAS SO SORRY I WAS RIGHT. SIGH! AND HE SHOULD KNOW BETTER HE IS A COP. SMH. I HOPED THIS TURNED-OUT RIGHT, BECAUSE I COULD NOT STAND IT IF HE DOESN'T GET HIS LIFE TOGETHER. MY OPINION OF VIRGIL IS CIRCLING THE TOILET BOWL JUST LIKE SOME S#IT. I DO LOVE WHEN AN AUTHOR WRITES A STORYLINE WITH CHARACTERS, I LIKE SO MUCH I FEEL AS THOUGH I REALLY KNOW AND CARE ABOUT THEM. I'D LIKE TO THANK YOU MR. SCOTT FOR BEING ABLE TO MAKE ME FEEL THIS WAY, SOMETIMES I FEEL SAD AND SO EXCITED BUT I WISH HE WOULD QUIT KILLING OFF THE GOOD CHARACTERS. ;D
June 4, 2020
Continuing characters from Scott's first book. Took along time to get moving. Felt like Scott really didn't know where he wanted to go with the characters. Then it turned into a pretty predictable tale. Nothing special.
April 27, 2020
Scientific Screwups
The plot was fine, if not a bit convoluted. However, I can't get past the shoddy science. First it was the Gershon method being advocated by an MD. Unh-uh. Then, an anti-vax pharmacist. Huge problems with that. And final nail in the coffin, writing that fraternal twins have identical DNA. The first two can be brushed off as dumb opinions held by dumb people. But the DNA, that's just a simple Google fact check away. I mean, so are the first two, but I digress. Don't think I will be continuing with the series after this. I end up getting drawn out of a story when gaffes like these pop-up, and have to fight to get back into it.
The plot was fine, if not a bit convoluted. However, I can't get past the shoddy science. First it was the Gershon method being advocated by an MD. Unh-uh. Then, an anti-vax pharmacist. Huge problems with that. And final nail in the coffin, writing that fraternal twins have identical DNA. The first two can be brushed off as dumb opinions held by dumb people. But the DNA, that's just a simple Google fact check away. I mean, so are the first two, but I digress. Don't think I will be continuing with the series after this. I end up getting drawn out of a story when gaffes like these pop-up, and have to fight to get back into it.
January 28, 2016
Excellent story.
Don't miss reading this series. This is book two, read "State of Anger" first. You'll know more about the characters and fall in love with Virgil and Sandy.
Virgil lost his job, almost lost himself. But having friends and their love saved him. Now second stage of his life about to start. This book warms your heart, but sometimes breaks it too. Can't wait for the next book, Mr Scott please don't let anything bad to happen to Virgil and Sandy in the coming book. Love the picture at the end too.
Don't miss reading this series. This is book two, read "State of Anger" first. You'll know more about the characters and fall in love with Virgil and Sandy.
Virgil lost his job, almost lost himself. But having friends and their love saved him. Now second stage of his life about to start. This book warms your heart, but sometimes breaks it too. Can't wait for the next book, Mr Scott please don't let anything bad to happen to Virgil and Sandy in the coming book. Love the picture at the end too.
November 6, 2021
This second book in Scott’s Virgil Jones series is a big, big step up from the first one, Voodoo Daddy or State of Anger depending on which version you read.
In that first book, Scott felt the need to metaphorically take the reader by the hand and point out an important passage. He spared us that here.
However he did have a bit of the ‘woo-woo’ here in the appearance of Virgil’s dead father by a willow tree planted in his honor. Some people may find this believable or at least acceptable. I do not, and it diminished my enjoyment of this book – enough to cost it 1 star.
An enemy from that first novel makes a return appearance here, adding another layer to the difficulties Virgil faces.
I had reservations about reading this book after my experience with the first book, but having read it and forgiving the ‘woo-woo’ part, I’ll read more in the series.
In that first book, Scott felt the need to metaphorically take the reader by the hand and point out an important passage. He spared us that here.
However he did have a bit of the ‘woo-woo’ here in the appearance of Virgil’s dead father by a willow tree planted in his honor. Some people may find this believable or at least acceptable. I do not, and it diminished my enjoyment of this book – enough to cost it 1 star.
An enemy from that first novel makes a return appearance here, adding another layer to the difficulties Virgil faces.
I had reservations about reading this book after my experience with the first book, but having read it and forgiving the ‘woo-woo’ part, I’ll read more in the series.
April 29, 2025
i got the first four books in the series for free and the story line was very entertaining. i thoroughly enjoyed the story line and the characters. BUT the lack of a competent proofreader and copy editor projibits me from paying money to buy any more of the books. if you can't keep your details straight from one page to the next or one chapter to the next or even from one book in the series to the next, then you need a copy editor. if you can't tell where to, and where not to, put commas, then you need a proofreader. if the books were free, i'd read them all but i'm not paying money for an author who doesn't have enough confidence in his work to hire professionals. i see there are 24 books in the series now. maybe he's gotten better or maybe he has hired professionals, but it would have to be proven to me in order for me to read any more.
May 30, 2024
This series of books is best read in order, because the plots are so intricate that the brief synopsis of the previous book given here is barely adequate. I would have given it five stars because it is quite a thrill ride, but at least in my Kindle version of the book, there are a number of places where, when I turned the page, a passage picked up in mid sentence, with an unknown chunk of material missing. While I don't think the missing material was critical to the plot, it was extremely annoying! That being said, I love this author! He has a way with words and with a plot that keeps me turning pages until I have finished the book! He just needs a copy editor to read the Kindle version of this book and restore the missing pieces.
July 19, 2020
Action Packed with Important Events
The second book of the Virgil Jones series is a fast paced action thriller. What seems to be a signature, at least in the first two books, is that there is always a huge amount of emotional and life changing events in Jonesy's world.
In State of Betrayal events continue from the previous book that include a lot of personal challenges for Virgil. Difficulties recovering from his previous injuries both physical and emotional cost him a great deal but with help from friends he struggles to continue his chosen path and embrace the people who matter most.
The second book of the Virgil Jones series is a fast paced action thriller. What seems to be a signature, at least in the first two books, is that there is always a huge amount of emotional and life changing events in Jonesy's world.
In State of Betrayal events continue from the previous book that include a lot of personal challenges for Virgil. Difficulties recovering from his previous injuries both physical and emotional cost him a great deal but with help from friends he struggles to continue his chosen path and embrace the people who matter most.
January 24, 2021
Virgil a cop was left go from his job. Unfairly really. He also was hurt and had leg injures. Down and out he eventually got addicted to oxycodone . His dad a cop was killed and they planted a tree in their back yard in memory of him. Virgil swore he seen his dad there and he talked to him. Sandy his girl friend got him involved with a doctor who helped him come clean from drugs. But another main part of the story was about this programmer who had a job and fixed out how to beat the lottery. So him and his sister planned to do that for the next big lottery. Lots of dirty cops and politicians . Lots of murders and lies. Who had the winning lottery ticket?
August 26, 2021
Sneaky twins
I've now read 3 books in this series. Yep, I got out of order, but that didn't matter cuz each book is a good as the last. I really like the relationship that Murton and Virgil have reclaimed after being apart for years. All the supporting characters are very well developed and their personalities shine forth through the authors words. Absolutely a series worth reading! I'm on to book #4.
I've now read 3 books in this series. Yep, I got out of order, but that didn't matter cuz each book is a good as the last. I really like the relationship that Murton and Virgil have reclaimed after being apart for years. All the supporting characters are very well developed and their personalities shine forth through the authors words. Absolutely a series worth reading! I'm on to book #4.
July 21, 2018
Totally absorbing and believable in most parts.
Enjoyed the natural dialogue. I believe if you can picture the characters that is the best part of reading. Enjoyable following the life of Virgil Jones and love all the characters close to him. Felt teary about his father. Far better than going to the movies, getting to read books that feel so real.
Enjoyed the natural dialogue. I believe if you can picture the characters that is the best part of reading. Enjoyable following the life of Virgil Jones and love all the characters close to him. Felt teary about his father. Far better than going to the movies, getting to read books that feel so real.
February 10, 2020
Talk about a twist to a plot, seems everyone is out against Virgil. Hasn’t he had enough and how to heal and get off the med’s, Good riveting plot, I enjoyed the suspense of what was going to happen next to Virgil.
The audio added to the story of which I got ARC audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
The audio added to the story of which I got ARC audio for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
April 22, 2020
Intense
Well written story about a cop in a downward spiral that ends with him getting fired before he gets off the pain pill addiction. Life gets better as he forms a partnership with a friend as a private investigator team and they solve crimes and have many altered with the criminal element. Great read.
Well written story about a cop in a downward spiral that ends with him getting fired before he gets off the pain pill addiction. Life gets better as he forms a partnership with a friend as a private investigator team and they solve crimes and have many altered with the criminal element. Great read.
September 19, 2020
This is becoming an interesting series. Virgil is given a quick cure to his addition to pain meds after a complicate ed broken leg. Then he is then back in to the action with Murdock trying to figure out what happened to Nicky Pope. There are many twists and turns until the surprise ending. I recommend this series and will be reading more of it.
March 11, 2021
Engaging. Thoughtful and well put together
The plot was sort of unique and certainly interesting. It was an engaging mystery with a good ending. I liked the way Thomas divided the mystery with both action and pers look mal parts. My real only complaint pis I think the characterization could have been more developed. I would definitely reading this mystery
The plot was sort of unique and certainly interesting. It was an engaging mystery with a good ending. I liked the way Thomas divided the mystery with both action and pers look mal parts. My real only complaint pis I think the characterization could have been more developed. I would definitely reading this mystery
September 21, 2023
State of Betrayal Review
Good Storyline, it deals with childhood trauma, guilt, and Government Corruption . The story takes place outside of Indianapolis. A Lottery prize worth over 300 thousand dollars is at the center of the story and makes you realize how Greed can destroy people
Good Storyline, it deals with childhood trauma, guilt, and Government Corruption . The story takes place outside of Indianapolis. A Lottery prize worth over 300 thousand dollars is at the center of the story and makes you realize how Greed can destroy people
July 4, 2024
Virgil Is Put Through The Grinder
Virgil goes cold turkey and gets off the drugs. He's getting his life with Sandy straightened out. He going into the PI business with Murton.
But before his life gets back on track a whole lot of people are going to die. Some deserve it, some don't.
Virgil goes cold turkey and gets off the drugs. He's getting his life with Sandy straightened out. He going into the PI business with Murton.
But before his life gets back on track a whole lot of people are going to die. Some deserve it, some don't.
February 15, 2020
Another Must Read!!!
Well written and paced. Again great characters and story. A good mixture of mystery, action, humor and sentiment. Good job Mr Scott. Ready to start book 3!!!
Well written and paced. Again great characters and story. A good mixture of mystery, action, humor and sentiment. Good job Mr Scott. Ready to start book 3!!!
May 16, 2020
Even Better
I am a fan of this author having read the first two books of this series and found it hard to put both down. so glad that the bad guys are doomed to failure and the good guys won.
I am a fan of this author having read the first two books of this series and found it hard to put both down. so glad that the bad guys are doomed to failure and the good guys won.
November 12, 2020
A great addition to the series
This was certainly a twisted, intriguing, and intense story with many twists and turns all the way to the end. I'm not sure if I really liked how it ended, but that's just how life works. Lol
I would recommend this book, series, and author.
This was certainly a twisted, intriguing, and intense story with many twists and turns all the way to the end. I'm not sure if I really liked how it ended, but that's just how life works. Lol
I would recommend this book, series, and author.
January 19, 2022
Intriguing mystery
Sorry that the author saw fit to have ed donatti die in spite of Murts heroic efforts, it did not improve the story, was pleased that the governor seemed a decent guy
Sorry that the author saw fit to have ed donatti die in spite of Murts heroic efforts, it did not improve the story, was pleased that the governor seemed a decent guy
June 5, 2022
Fast paced and page turning
Stat of betrayal is wonderfully engaging from chapter one onto a fast paced ending. If you enjoy a great police procedural and strong lead characters this series seems to fill all the boxes. Can't wait for the follow-up book.
Stat of betrayal is wonderfully engaging from chapter one onto a fast paced ending. If you enjoy a great police procedural and strong lead characters this series seems to fill all the boxes. Can't wait for the follow-up book.
July 7, 2023
Excellent Read
This was the 2nd book I've read by Thomas Scott and like the first, this was also an Excellent Read!
I will search for the next one in the series!
I really recommend this to everyone who wants a good mystery and great action and a "puzzler".
This was the 2nd book I've read by Thomas Scott and like the first, this was also an Excellent Read!
I will search for the next one in the series!
I really recommend this to everyone who wants a good mystery and great action and a "puzzler".
November 25, 2025
A good book other than where a Pharmacist is talking about why you shouldn't have a flu shot. Don't need any of the political garbage this really wasn't even needed for the storyline. I might read the next book and hopefully no more of this nonsense.
July 2, 2017
Thrilling mystery
Very intriguing mystery with many characters, twists and turns with many subplots to keep you guessing and involved all the time.
Very intriguing mystery with many characters, twists and turns with many subplots to keep you guessing and involved all the time.
August 26, 2019
Love the Virgil Jones character and series!
April 23, 2020
Great Read
I find myself not wanting series to end and i am only going to start the 3rd book in series. This series will make you want to read all the time.
I find myself not wanting series to end and i am only going to start the 3rd book in series. This series will make you want to read all the time.
April 25, 2020
The action just keeps coming
Well written with sympathetic characters. A bit too much 'just in time' and unclarified back story, but overall a satisfying read
Well written with sympathetic characters. A bit too much 'just in time' and unclarified back story, but overall a satisfying read
June 29, 2020
A good book.
August 6, 2020
Good read
His past haunts him, a good cop who loses his way due to addiction. A chance to prove himself again....
His past haunts him, a good cop who loses his way due to addiction. A chance to prove himself again....
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews