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In our line of work, there is no such thing as being a victim of success. There is just success.

We can’t stop what we’re doing for fear of emboldening someone any more than we can stop evil men like him from existing. What we can do is stop them from hurting anybody else.

For much of the last year, the liaison position thrust on Detective Reed Mattox and his K-9 partner Billie, forcing them to split time between the Columbus Police Department and the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation, saw them doing an increasing amount of work for the latter. Cases handpicked by the governor with the hope of currying goodwill on his own behalf, sending them to nearly every corner of the state.

An arrangement Reed was growing increasingly wary of, and when a body turned up in The Bottoms where he and his partner used to spend much of their time, he was more than willing to take it. A chance for them work in familiar territory with familiar colleagues, as well as a shot to bring justice on behalf of the young woman who was brutally murdered and displayed in a park for all to see.

A task that had just begun when other victims surfaced.

The makings of a serial spree targeting working girls throughout the city, with each addition bringing new details to light. The emergence of patterns hinting at the type of killer Reed and Billie had barely heard of, much less encountered before. Someone driven by delusions of grandeur, making it clear that every last detail was done with intention.

Including the involvement of Reed and Billie themselves…

454 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2023

947 people are currently reading
76 people want to read

About the author

Dustin Stevens

84 books311 followers
I originally hail from the midwest, growing up in the heart of farm country, and still consider it, along with West Tennessee, my co-home. Between the two, I have a firm belief that football is the greatest of all past-times, sweet tea is really the only acceptable beverage for any occasion, there is not an event on earth that either gym shorts or boots can't be worn to, and that Dairy Queen is the best restaurant on the planet. Further, southern accents are a highly likeable feature on most everybody, English bulldogs sit atop the critter hierarchy, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with a Saturday night spent catfishing at the lake.

Since leaving the midwest I've been to college in New England, grad school in the Rockies, and lived in over a dozen different cities ranging from DC to Honolulu along the way. Each and every one of these experiences has shaped who I am at this point, a fact I hope is expressed in my writing. I have developed enormous affinity for locales and people of every size and shape, and even if I never figure out a way to properly convey them on paper, I am very much grateful for their presence in my life.

To sum it up, I asked a very good friend recently how they would describe me for something like this. Their response: "Plagued by realism and trained by experiences/education to be a pessimist, you somehow remain above all else an active dreamer." While I can't say those are the exact words I would choose, I can't say they're wrong. I travel, live in different places, try new foods, meet all kinds of different people, and above all else stay curious to a fault.

Here's hoping it continues to provide us all with some pretty good stories...

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5 stars
1,196 (66%)
4 stars
467 (25%)
3 stars
106 (5%)
2 stars
21 (1%)
1 star
13 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
12 reviews1 follower
December 9, 2023
I enjoyed the plot of this book. But I found the author's writing style to be incredibly "verbose." So much so, that it detracted from the storyline. Page after page of redundant, unnecessary rambling. The lead character, Detective Reed is feeling "anxious and frustrated" over his inability to get ahead of the serial killer. The author spent paragraph after paragraph describing his "anxiety level." Three paragraphs describing how Reed's boss, the Captain, "removed his jacket and sat as his desk." I became so frustrated with this, I actually started skimming through pages to return to the plot. As a member of Kindle Unlimited, I read many books by so many great authors. I can't recall ever having this experience. This book could have been shortened by 50 pages and been a much more enjoyable read.
26 reviews
December 16, 2023
A perfectly good story ruined by atrocious writing.

Here's a taste:
Half of them with no subjects. Poorly formed phrases masquerading as sentences. An onslaught of trivial details doing nothing other than pad the word count. My head reeling in frustration and confusion trying to extract meaning, while swiveling in an upholstered off-white armchair facing East, then West then South and back in the opposite direction, hearing the squeak of the inner mechanism and wondering when the walls were last painted. An accurate example of the way this book is written.
If you like the way the preceding paragraph reads, you'll like this book.
24 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2023
The Cat is yet another fantastic read from the absurdly prolific author Dustin Stevens; and the twelfth book in my personal favorite, his Reed & Billie investigative procedural series.

In this outing, Reed and Billie are called back to their old stomping grounds, The Bottoms, as the on-call back-up investigators. They welcome the return to the familiar places and faces of their precinct in the Columbus Police Department, free from the more politically charged cases they now must work, largely at the governor’s behest, for the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Their ”pleasure” is short-lived when they discover the gruesome nature of the crime, and the indications that quickly follow that this, in all likelihood, is just the beginning of an ever-accelerating spree, befuddling in its complexity and depravity.

This is a very different type of adversary for Reed and his K-9 partner, Billie. The M.O.s, victimology, and direct clues are all over the map, and it takes all of Reed’s energy and concentration—not to mention every one from his personal Rolodex of resources--including his friend/computer hacker, crime scene investigator, and even his old psychologist—and some new police specialists, to assist the case.

Always by his side, literally, Billie is part fierce K-9 warrior, part “mood ring” animal as she perfectly reflects all of Reed’s inner emotions, and every bit emotional support animal. Clearly, neither one could function, or maybe even survive, without the other. And they certainly will not be solving this case without leaning heavily on each other.

It’s always feels like a gift when a new Reed & Billie novel is released, and The Cat is no exception. Perfectly paced for that “can’t put it down until you find out what happens” action, with a unique and original adversary that is both intriguing and horrifying to contemplate, I highly recommend this book. If you are already a fan of Reed & Billie, I fear this entire review is superfluous, as you are already hooked and will already be committed to buying this book.

To everyone else—what are you waiting for?
Profile Image for Jerry Walch.
667 reviews17 followers
November 5, 2023
If you have never read Dustin Stevens, you are in for a real treat. A bestselling author since 2010, who has over fifty-five titles in print, in several series as-well-as standalone novels. I have read books from all his series, but his Reed & Billie Mystery Series is, perhaps, my all-time favorite. Perhaps that’s because I have worked with K9s like Billie and reading about their exploits brings back memories. Every book in the series is an adrenaline fueled rollercoaster thrill ride that will keep you glued to the edge of your seat, burning through the pages.

The Cat is a spine-tingling tale with two principal-the cat point-of-view characters-The Cat and Reed. The Cat fits the perp because he’s a serial killer who singles out Reed and his K9 partner to play a cat and mouse game with. The Cat recognizes that Reed and Billie are the best of the best, but he believes that he is smarter than them. The Cat’s end game is to go down in history as being one of the few serial killers that were never apprehended. The Cat considered Reed and Billie to be worthy opponents and wanted to go down in history as being the one to have defeated them and brought shame to their spotless record.

The Cat is good and stays one paw ahead of Reed and Billie for most of the story, but not good enough to join Jack the Ripper and other noted serial killers who were never caught. The Cat gets his tail caught in the wringer when.... Go read the book to find out. The way this story ends will have you saying, wow! I didn’t see that coming.
49 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2023
Followers of Dustin Stevens’ Reed and Billie series will be rewarded for their wait as their newest adventure, The Cat, is released. The Cat does not begin with a Prologue - the reader is thrust into the novel on page 1. And it is no holds barred - you are hooked.

Keeping a series electric enough to completely engage the reader with each new release requires a unique skill that Srevens has in abundance. His plots are adventuresome and devious - and always one step ahead of the reader. Reed and Billie continue as strong characters while growing in depth.

I have been intrigued by the critical part the K-9 partner plays in support and discovery. Stevens fills in the K-9 skills easily in the narrative, imparting much knowledge without slipping into tutorial mode.

The Cat gave me opportunities to think about the relationship between Reed and Billie in a different dimension. Billie is Reed’s partner - she tracks the perp, clears the room, and subdues bad guys. However, in their ‘personal life’ there is a lot going on. Reed had to work through PTSD when his former partner was killed. Returning to work, Reed chose the graveyard shift to avoid people contact. He has few people in his personal life and a near total focus on the job, which has many dark elements. I think Billie keeps Reed grounded. It’s the little things - like Reed knows to pack food for Billie so he packs a snack for himself and when the evil begins to really pinch, Reed reaches down and rubs his fingers through her fur - and Reed’s inner voice says, “You got this”. This was a great read.
127 reviews
October 25, 2023
The Reed & Billie series is back, with a psychological thriller bent this time around. Someone looking for claim to fame as the latest and greatest serial murderer has singled out Reed & Billie as a personal challenge. The dynamic duo has proved their merit time and time again - this is book #12, after all - so our antagonist not only wants to show he's still smarter than them, he's content to taunt them all along the way.

The story has lots of twists and turns, and only through grit, detective smarts, and a little luck does our intrepid team triumph in the end. The only thing I wish got hashed out a bit more was how our murderer chose his path in an attempt to make a name for himself.

With that said, this one will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. I can't wait to see where Stevens takes the detective duo next! Highly recommended.
39 reviews3 followers
October 17, 2023
The Cat is introduced as a cunning criminal who is determined to best Reed and Billie. Reed is a brilliant detective determined to do his job to the best of his ability, running himself and Billie ragged to solve his case.
The action starts slowly, and then all of a sudden, you are THERE! You are in the middle of the case with them. Once you reach this point, there is no putting this book down until you finish it.
Dustin has a special talent for writing intricate plot twists and keeping you on the edge of your seat while reading his stories. He is one of my favorite authors. Thanks for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
83 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2023
Must Read Series!

A real thriller!
Have you ever read a book that grabs your attention from the very start?  A book you feel so much a part of you are  let down when you are finished?  That's the reaction I had to the 12th book of the Reed and Billie series by Dustin Stevens.  This series is one of my favorite.
Although a typical detective book of catching the serial killer, this book has a quite unique theme that I have never encountered having read hundreds of "who done it" mysteries. 
I urge you to read this series, and in particular, The Cat.  You won't be disappointed. 
80 reviews2 followers
November 8, 2023
I am submitting this review voluntarily as a member of the ARC team. This book was much anticipated and truly met expectations. Reed and Billie are a great team and The Cat is a delusional and dangerous opponent who has chosen our hero’s in his twisted desire to be immortalized as the best. As the story develops, the leads go in many directions keeping Reed and his partner up at night. The clues come from a variety of locations all with something in common. The story picks up speed the closer Reed and his partner come to solving the mystery….you will find that you can’t turn the pages fast enough. Great Jon once again Dustin!
Profile Image for Rosemary Dreyer.
1,521 reviews5 followers
February 17, 2025
This book in the Reed and Billie series didn’t quite make it for me. What I liked: how in-tune Reed and Billie are with each other; how many different police/sheriffs came together to work a case involving their whole city; I especially enjoy the dynamics between Reed and Grimes and Reed and Deek. What I didn’t like: these books are ridiculous how they solve these intense cases in under a week (willing suspension of disbelief and all); how suddenly every other person in the law force can just drop whatever cases they were involved with to come to aid; I really want Reed to get into a relationship (other series make this an interesting component). Overall, not my favorite.
7,755 reviews49 followers
October 17, 2023
This series is a favorite of mine, the plot enfolds as I read, of another call out for Reed. He has lost his partner, and today he is missing the game.
Detective Reed and Billie his K 9, and Serena brings a big grin from him, when he hears her voice. Case is an area Reed use to work, now to bring justice for the one that was killed, and for the others that follow. Killer who loves to tease Reed to catch him. Reed and Billie will work endlessly to catch him
Given arc for my voluntary review
311 reviews
November 10, 2023
Another exciting read

While excited for new Reed and Billie book and while I did enjoy it, this one was a little off to me. While it has been very clear that Reed is unhappy with his arrangement with the governor, Reed seems really tired and restless. and like he may need some new changes in his life. Not really sure what the whole thought process was behind this killer. He certainly was evil, and presented a decent chase, he was rather loose. The end seemed a little rushed. Still consider it a good read.
Profile Image for Gary Webster.
336 reviews
February 16, 2024
This is probably one of my favorite books about Reid and Billie. I love this dog so much. I do like Stevens riding, but I just have such a hard time with his heavy narration. I wish he’d spent more time on dialogue less on narrating. It didn’t used to bother me as much early on in his books. But I’ve read enough of them that I am just so over it. However, this is one of the best books in the series. You could read it all by itself if you wanted to, or you could go to the very beginning of the series. But it’s a great note to end on if this is the end of the series.
18 reviews
March 2, 2025
Love these books but...

I love this series but I have to say that this one left me with questions. This may seem a small detail, but so far in all these books, our lovable tech guru has been Deke, but this book went with a different spelling, making me wonder if we had a different writer at the helm. In this book it's Deek which I first thought was just a typo but it continued throughout the storyline. And I also noticed I skimmed a lot of this as there was quite a bit of filler. Still a good story but just noticed some differences.
134 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2023
"The Cat", by Dustin Stevens, is a must-read book.

And I have two specific reasons on wby you should read this book. One: you will find a serial killer the likes of which you've never heard of nor read about - ever. Two: Stevens has outdone himself as an author who has created the most exciting conclusion to any of his books - ever.

So I dare you to read this book and prove me wrong! I'm waiting...
55 reviews
November 8, 2023
I always enjoy novels written by Dustin Stevens, but my favorite series is the one with Detective Reed Mattox and his K-9 partner Billie. Reed works around the clock trying to solve these vicious murders that don’t seem to be connected. If it wasn’t for his concern for Billie’s health, Reed probably wouldn’t take time to eat or sleep. The Cat is a fast-paced book that will keep you up late reading way past your bedtime. I think this book was my favorite
8 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2023
The day after Thanksgiving with a plateful of leftovers Reed and Billie are getting all settled in to watch the big game. With one phone call, the peace is shattered and they have a new case, a grisly murder of a prostitute.
With this seemingly random assignment, Reed and Billie find that the devil really is in the details.
Another heart pounding tale unfolding at breakneck speed, Stevens never disappoints. Be prepared to stay up all night with this latest Reed and Billie book!
Profile Image for Jenny.
31 reviews
March 6, 2024
The Cat

First off..Dustin needs a new editor. Through 11 books his cyber guy was Deke, this one he is Deek. Also continued grammatical errors that are somewhat distracting.
The stories and characters are wonderful. Surprisingly no romance for our main character, an introduction to a possible love interest in the last 2 books.
Loved how the bond between Reed and Billie solidified. Wish my dog was as well behaved.
Profile Image for Gena Wood.
112 reviews3 followers
October 19, 2023
This book grabs you and just pulls you in!! Reed & Billie, and a mishmash of various others are trying to catch the "uncatchable" killer. With an agenda set out that boggles the mind.  Billie is, as always, by Reed's side every step as they try to decipher his next move.
I highly recommend this book/series. I'm already ready for the next one......
Profile Image for Martin Pingree.
1,011 reviews14 followers
November 6, 2023
Detectives Reed and Billie (K9) get called out to a brutal murder case of a prostitute. Without many clues they begin their job. After a second murder Reed thinks he knows something and after a third murder he and his coworkers figure out a pattern. Turns out the killer is a copycat killer, but not in the way you think. This is an excellent read and well worth your time. With a fantastic cast, non stop action and an awesome plot you will NOT be disappointed !
26 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2023
The Cat is a wannabe GOAT in the serial killer world, trying to create a legend. He’s new to the Columbus area, making identifying him nearly impossible forcing Reed to find new ways to sort out the clues left with each murder. The book is filled with suspense, intrigue and peril as Reed and Billie strive to solve the case.
Profile Image for Becky .
592 reviews15 followers
November 6, 2023
Reed is glad to have a change of pace, and when a body shows up where he spent a lot of time, he and Billie head out. Teaming up with partners from their past, they work to try to find justice for the murdered young lady, only to have more show up in very similar situations.
It's another hit in the Reed and Billie series, in my opinion.
275 reviews4 followers
November 6, 2023
I think the one is my favourite in this series.  The characters are well written and the plot is fantastic!  You may think a serial killer targeting working girls to be a typical plot but not so this time.  This story will grab you early on and you won't want to put it down.   I recommend this series. 
1 review
November 7, 2023
While this is a typical catch the bad guy story. Like all his stories in the Reed and Billie series it is done with a twist. You feel like you are there with the 2 main characters. You feel the emotional up and downs with them. I loved this series from the second page of the first book. I wholeheartedly recommend you read them all but especially the Cat .
447 reviews3 followers
November 22, 2023
Super Suspense Novel

Reed and Billie are awesome partners that dig deep to always catch the bad guy. This book has you guessing till the end if they can catch a break and find the perpetrator killing women. Great characters in these books and many twists and turns hunting down killers. I look forward to another book in this series next year hopefully!
10 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2024
Review

An outstanding book about a serial killer who messes with the wrong detective. I would suggest that you his earlier books first but this can be read as a stand alone. He us an excellent writer and if you like detective stories I would suggest that you check this writer out
Profile Image for Nanette Edmonds.
110 reviews1 follower
Read
January 19, 2024
The Cat vs. Reed & Billie

Reed and Billie are the team of the century. Reed is definitely the brains of the pair, but Billie is the muscle. The author includes a lot of descriptors, making the story longer, but worth the read. I'll be on the lookout for the next Reed and Billie suspense.
145 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2024
Page Turning Excitement

I can't get enough of Reed and Billy. Each book has had me enthralled. I've taken a break to read other authors in between books in this series and I just can't wait to get back to read another Reed and Billy book! Thank you Dustin Stevens for continuing to keep me in suspense and entertained.
21 reviews
March 27, 2024
The last of an awesome 12-book series

I loved the backstory of a good man (Reed) and an amazing dog (Billie), both of whom helped one another overcome past sad losses. The stories of heinous crimes that they put a stop to kept me enthralled. Anyone who loves dogs and thrilling stories should give this series a look!
Profile Image for Ruby D.
51 reviews1 follower
March 27, 2024
Hurry up and wait

This was a very slow read. Tons of descriptions of streets and buildings and feelings and repeating information.

My best guess is either this was a short story that was heavily padded or Serena was supposed to come to Ohio but the idea was scratched.

Save yourself some time and read the first 60 pages and the last 120. You won't miss much.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews

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