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New Orleans #9
The Last Sinner
The #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Survived delivers a gripping novel of suspense featuring two veteran homicide detectives matching wits with a twisted serial killer lurking in the shadows of New Orleans.
There are killers so savage, so twisted, that they leave a mark not just on their victims, but on everyone who crosses their path. For Detectives Bentz and Montoya, Father John, a fake priest who used the sharpened beads of a rosary to strangle prostitutes, is one such monster.
Bentz thought he’d ended that horror years ago when he killed Father John deep in the swamp. But now there are chilling signs he may have been wrong. A new victim has surfaced, her ruined body staged in deliberate, unmistakable detail. Either it’s a terrifying copycat, or Father John, the detective’s own recurring nightmare, has come back to haunt New Orleans.
Another death, and another. Bentz is growing convinced that Father John isn’t just back. He’s circling closer, targeting those Bentz loves most.
And this time, he won’t be stopped until the last sinner has paid the ultimate price…
There are killers so savage, so twisted, that they leave a mark not just on their victims, but on everyone who crosses their path. For Detectives Bentz and Montoya, Father John, a fake priest who used the sharpened beads of a rosary to strangle prostitutes, is one such monster.
Bentz thought he’d ended that horror years ago when he killed Father John deep in the swamp. But now there are chilling signs he may have been wrong. A new victim has surfaced, her ruined body staged in deliberate, unmistakable detail. Either it’s a terrifying copycat, or Father John, the detective’s own recurring nightmare, has come back to haunt New Orleans.
Another death, and another. Bentz is growing convinced that Father John isn’t just back. He’s circling closer, targeting those Bentz loves most.
And this time, he won’t be stopped until the last sinner has paid the ultimate price…
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2023
1550 people are currently reading
31846 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Jackson
271 books9,567 followersLisa Jackson is the number-one New York Times bestselling author of over ninety-five novels, including the Rick Bentz and Reuben Montoya Series, the Pescoli and Alvarez Series, the Savannah series, and numerous stand alone novels. She also is the co-author of One Last Breath, Last Girl Standing, and the Colony Series, written with her sister and bestselling author Nancy Bush, as well as the collaborative novels Sinister and Ominous, written with Nancy Bush and Rosalind Noonan. There are over thirty million copies of her novels in print and her writing has been translated into twenty languages.
Before she became a nationally bestselling author, she was a mother struggling to keep food on the table by writing novels, hoping against hope that someone would pay her for them. Today, neck deep in murder, her books appear on The New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly national bestseller lists.
With dozens of bestsellers to her name, Lisa Jackson is a master of taking readers to the edge of sanity—and back—in novels that buzz with dangerous secrets and deadly passions. She continues to be fascinated by the minds and motives of both her killers and their pursuers—the personal, the professional, and the downright twisted. As she builds the puzzle of relationships, actions, clues, lies, and personal histories that haunt her protagonists, she must also confront the fear and terror faced by her victims and the harsh and enduring truth that, in the real world, terror and madness touch far too many lives and families.
Visit http://www.LisaJackson.com where you can find a Media Kit with photos and more information.
Before she became a nationally bestselling author, she was a mother struggling to keep food on the table by writing novels, hoping against hope that someone would pay her for them. Today, neck deep in murder, her books appear on The New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly national bestseller lists.
With dozens of bestsellers to her name, Lisa Jackson is a master of taking readers to the edge of sanity—and back—in novels that buzz with dangerous secrets and deadly passions. She continues to be fascinated by the minds and motives of both her killers and their pursuers—the personal, the professional, and the downright twisted. As she builds the puzzle of relationships, actions, clues, lies, and personal histories that haunt her protagonists, she must also confront the fear and terror faced by her victims and the harsh and enduring truth that, in the real world, terror and madness touch far too many lives and families.
Visit http://www.LisaJackson.com where you can find a Media Kit with photos and more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 497 reviews
June 21, 2023
Written for those who love crime thrillers and police procedurals,
The Last Sinner
by Lisa Jackson has a chilling, calculating, and sinister start with a look into the mind of a killer. Some killers are so depraved that they leave a mark on their victims, the police, and others who encounter them. For Detectives Rick Bentz and Reuben Montoya, Father John is one such criminal. Father John was a fake priest who used the sharpened beads of a rosary to strangle women. Bentz thought he killed Father John years ago, but a new victim has been found. Did Father John survive or is this the work of a copycat?
Besides Bentz and Montoya, the other main character is Bentz’s daughter, Kristi Bentz McKnight. All three are well-developed characters, but Kristi’s characterization was especially effective as was that of the killer. She’s a true-crime author and working on her next book. This causes some strife with her husband Jay who considers it dangerous work and wants her to stop.
This book takes place in and around New Orleans, Louisiana. The nearby bayou is almost like another character, the world-building for it is so good. However, I didn’t get a great feel for New Orleans itself other than through the mention of places such as the Garden District and the French Quarter.
The plot is twisty and changing throughout. However, there are really three sub-plots in this novel. I felt they could have been made into three separate books rather than combined here. Nevertheless, the author did a great job of bringing them together into a fantastic story line. Additionally, the plot comes alive with a tremendous amount of conflict. There are plenty of exciting scenes and an antagonist who is dark and terrifyingly realistic.
The book has an intensity that hooked me with a believable plot and strong characters. The author also does a great job of incorporating real-world issues into the story that add depth. These include survivor’s guilt, grief, work-life balance, friendships, family, murder, retribution, and much more.
Overall, this was a riveting mystery with unpredictable moments in the story and a deeply involved plot. The author did a great job of building suspense throughout the story, providing action, and giving readers a lot to contemplate as they try to solve the crimes. I look forward to seeing what is next in this series. Readers of gritty mysteries, crime thrillers, and police procedurals will likely enjoy this series. By reading the series in order, the character growth and the relationships that develop over time are better understood. However, this ninth novel in the series can be read as a stand-alone.
Kensington Books and Lisa Jackson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 27, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Besides Bentz and Montoya, the other main character is Bentz’s daughter, Kristi Bentz McKnight. All three are well-developed characters, but Kristi’s characterization was especially effective as was that of the killer. She’s a true-crime author and working on her next book. This causes some strife with her husband Jay who considers it dangerous work and wants her to stop.
This book takes place in and around New Orleans, Louisiana. The nearby bayou is almost like another character, the world-building for it is so good. However, I didn’t get a great feel for New Orleans itself other than through the mention of places such as the Garden District and the French Quarter.
The plot is twisty and changing throughout. However, there are really three sub-plots in this novel. I felt they could have been made into three separate books rather than combined here. Nevertheless, the author did a great job of bringing them together into a fantastic story line. Additionally, the plot comes alive with a tremendous amount of conflict. There are plenty of exciting scenes and an antagonist who is dark and terrifyingly realistic.
The book has an intensity that hooked me with a believable plot and strong characters. The author also does a great job of incorporating real-world issues into the story that add depth. These include survivor’s guilt, grief, work-life balance, friendships, family, murder, retribution, and much more.
Overall, this was a riveting mystery with unpredictable moments in the story and a deeply involved plot. The author did a great job of building suspense throughout the story, providing action, and giving readers a lot to contemplate as they try to solve the crimes. I look forward to seeing what is next in this series. Readers of gritty mysteries, crime thrillers, and police procedurals will likely enjoy this series. By reading the series in order, the character growth and the relationships that develop over time are better understood. However, this ninth novel in the series can be read as a stand-alone.
Kensington Books and Lisa Jackson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for June 27, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
August 21, 2023
Love the concept and NOLA setting.
Can be read as a standalone but probably best as a series.
Father John, is a fake priest who uses a modified rosary to kill prostitutes. A serial killer who was supposed to be dead in the marshy swamps of New Orleans. Now someone with the same MO is killing sex workers. Is Father John back? Or is it a copycat? It's now up to Detective Bentz and Montoya to take down this Father John once and for all.
I wanted to love this novel. I've heard plenty of good things about this author and seen the numerous high ratings. However, I found the pacing slow and the story dragged out. But that's just me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lisa Jackson, and Kensington Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.**
Can be read as a standalone but probably best as a series.
Father John, is a fake priest who uses a modified rosary to kill prostitutes. A serial killer who was supposed to be dead in the marshy swamps of New Orleans. Now someone with the same MO is killing sex workers. Is Father John back? Or is it a copycat? It's now up to Detective Bentz and Montoya to take down this Father John once and for all.
I wanted to love this novel. I've heard plenty of good things about this author and seen the numerous high ratings. However, I found the pacing slow and the story dragged out. But that's just me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Lisa Jackson, and Kensington Books for graciously sending me the ARC to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.**
April 19, 2023
I've only read a couple of Lisa Jackson's books, but I did enjoy them so I decided to pick this one up even though I haven't read the other books in the series. This was an exciting, fast-paced thriller and I was flipping the pages fast because I couldn't wait to find out what happened. Here's the blurb:
"Father John, the notorious serial killer introduced in HOT BLOODED is back for revenge, as well an all new killing spree - he hires prostitutes and then strangles them with rosary beads, leaving behind a hundred dollar bill with Ben Franklin's eyes burned out. Also in his cross-hairs is Bentz's daughter, Kristi, a true crime writer, who survives an attack when the novel opens but it ends with her husband Jay's death. Was the attack the work of Father John? Or is there another killer on the loose in New Orleans, this one with his own agenda for revenge against Kristi..."
The killer is elusive and ritualistic and very creepy. Was Father John responsible for the attack on Kristi and Jay's murder as well as the prostitutes? They didn't know if they should be treating the investigations the same or if they should be looking for someone else besides Father John.
I liked Kristi for her strength and courage. The New Orleans setting and the swamp areas gave the novel a gothic-type feel. I found the swamp scenes kind of gross and scary. Bentz and Montoya made a good detective team. I enjoyed Montoya's brother and still wonder what's going on with him.
Thanks to Kensington Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on June 27, 2023.
"Father John, the notorious serial killer introduced in HOT BLOODED is back for revenge, as well an all new killing spree - he hires prostitutes and then strangles them with rosary beads, leaving behind a hundred dollar bill with Ben Franklin's eyes burned out. Also in his cross-hairs is Bentz's daughter, Kristi, a true crime writer, who survives an attack when the novel opens but it ends with her husband Jay's death. Was the attack the work of Father John? Or is there another killer on the loose in New Orleans, this one with his own agenda for revenge against Kristi..."
The killer is elusive and ritualistic and very creepy. Was Father John responsible for the attack on Kristi and Jay's murder as well as the prostitutes? They didn't know if they should be treating the investigations the same or if they should be looking for someone else besides Father John.
I liked Kristi for her strength and courage. The New Orleans setting and the swamp areas gave the novel a gothic-type feel. I found the swamp scenes kind of gross and scary. Bentz and Montoya made a good detective team. I enjoyed Montoya's brother and still wonder what's going on with him.
Thanks to Kensington Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on June 27, 2023.
January 20, 2023
Thanks NetGalley and Kensington Books for this ARC that will be released June 27, 2023!
Bentz and Montoya are back in the ninth installment in this New Orleans southern gothic mystery series. I was so excited to get selected for this arc. This is one of my most favorite series of all time. I just love the southern gothic theme.
This book brings back lots of great characters in the other books. In this story Kristi, Bentzs daughter, is being stalked by a psycho leaving her bible verses. Could it be Father John back for revenge? I raced through this book in one day. It was a very suspenseful read! This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the others first. I give 5 stars to the whole series.
Bentz and Montoya are back in the ninth installment in this New Orleans southern gothic mystery series. I was so excited to get selected for this arc. This is one of my most favorite series of all time. I just love the southern gothic theme.
This book brings back lots of great characters in the other books. In this story Kristi, Bentzs daughter, is being stalked by a psycho leaving her bible verses. Could it be Father John back for revenge? I raced through this book in one day. It was a very suspenseful read! This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the others first. I give 5 stars to the whole series.
September 3, 2023
I'm trying not to be harsh but every time I tried to read it I fell asleep. Could have cut it down by 100 pages
January 20, 2023
Thanks NetGalley and Kensington Books for this ARC that will be released June 27, 2023!
Bentz and Montoya are back in the ninth installment in this New Orleans southern gothic mystery series. I was so excited to get selected for this arc. This is one of my most favorite series of all time. I just love the southern gothic theme.
This book brings back lots of great characters in the other books. In this story Kristi, Bentzs daughter, is being stalked by a psycho leaving her bible verses. Could it be Father John back for revenge? I raced through this book in one day. It was a very suspenseful read! This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the others first. I give 5 stars to the whole series.
Bentz and Montoya are back in the ninth installment in this New Orleans southern gothic mystery series. I was so excited to get selected for this arc. This is one of my most favorite series of all time. I just love the southern gothic theme.
This book brings back lots of great characters in the other books. In this story Kristi, Bentzs daughter, is being stalked by a psycho leaving her bible verses. Could it be Father John back for revenge? I raced through this book in one day. It was a very suspenseful read! This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the others first. I give 5 stars to the whole series.
October 1, 2023
Ok I managed to finish it but it took me so long because this book made me angry. First off, the amount of time the author spends repeating the things that happened at the beginning of the book could probably take up 30-50 pages alone. I got so tired of ready the same references over again. I think because of this, the book should have been exciting but felt slow moving. Some of the plot gripped me for a short time but, the author switches to a different narrator so often that by the time she gets back to the interesting plot line, I had almost stopped caring. I think if the book were 100 pages shorter I could have give it 3 stars. There was just so much writing that I think wasn’t necessary.
March 3, 2023
I read the first book in the Bentz/Montoya series and decided not to continue with the series due to a few issues that I chalked up to the book being written years ago. However, I had requested and been approved for an ARC of The Last Sinner before I read the first book. This book is the 9th and final book in the series and I expected that Lisa Jackson would have made some improvements, but unfortunately, I was disappointed. The first thing is that this book is about 150 pages too long, given the storyline. The book is unnecessarily repetitious and drags on at certain points. I do not feel like going in to more details on why i rated it a 2-stars because the same critiques have been giving on book 1 down to book 8 and there seemed to be no growth in book 9
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington publishing for the ARC of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington publishing for the ARC of this book.
July 5, 2023
This was a fun read! I was definitely into our mystery and wanted to know who was doing what!
And there were so many suspects! I loved that I really couldn't figure out the who of this until the reveal.
There's a tiny bit of something unsolved in the end and I really wish the next book was here - I'd already be reading it!
Definitely an entertaining beach read!
And there were so many suspects! I loved that I really couldn't figure out the who of this until the reveal.
There's a tiny bit of something unsolved in the end and I really wish the next book was here - I'd already be reading it!
Definitely an entertaining beach read!
August 27, 2023
What an entertaining read! This book is part of a series, but in my opinion could be read as a stand-a-lone. Who doesn’t love a good mystery? So many suspects, and I thought I had it figured out, but nope. I was wrong. There were some questions left unanswered at the end, so I’m sure there will be another book in the series.
June 28, 2023
I stopped reading the books in this series around book 5, because I couldn't stand the messed-up, entitled, cocky, Kristi character who was playing an increasingly large role in every book. So, while I don't know what happened to her in the intervening books, I was not surprised when this one started with her fighting and treating a loving husband like crap. But in this book she had some softness, love for animals, feelings of guilt, and decent behaviour towards her dad, so she'd definitely improved.
I do think the story was too slow, as most police procedurals are. The people that were being killed were completely or almost unknown to us, and therefore I didn't care about them. The only thing that really kept some suspense going was the targeting of Kristi, and that wasn't quite enough for me. Still, the last 10 percent was very exciting, and I loved the way the author pulled together all the story strands into one resolution at the end.
I do think the story was too slow, as most police procedurals are. The people that were being killed were completely or almost unknown to us, and therefore I didn't care about them. The only thing that really kept some suspense going was the targeting of Kristi, and that wasn't quite enough for me. Still, the last 10 percent was very exciting, and I loved the way the author pulled together all the story strands into one resolution at the end.
September 16, 2023
This is my first book by Lisa Jackson and won't be my last! I am definitely looking forward to reading other books by her.
This book takes place in the City of New Orleans. Kristi Bentz is a writer who writes true crime stories. She's met many killers along her path and made many enemies along the way.
An attack on her and her husband's death trying to protect her, her father Detective Bentz and his partner Montoya are beginning to wonder if the serial killer Father John has come back to life.
Her father and his partner Montoya have different theories and believe they are dealing with two different killers, as there have been other murders in the city. Is there a copy cat or is the notorious Father John really back from the dead? Or are they dealing with 2 different killers?
Kristi becomes consumed in avenging in her husband's death and she and her father start searching for answers in the many books that she has written. Each of those killers have a reason or motive to want her dead.
I love the determination and the strength that Kristi has in her search for her husband's killer. Some things I would never do and had me hollering at the book at her...LOL
This book has many twist and turns and has you questioning everybody and every one in her books as to who done it. An edge of your seat thriller, and just when you think you know who the killer is, your wrong again.
The ending was crazy and totally was not what I was expecting at all!!
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. So happy that I now have a new author to follow and looking forward to reading more books by Lisa Jackson.
This book takes place in the City of New Orleans. Kristi Bentz is a writer who writes true crime stories. She's met many killers along her path and made many enemies along the way.
An attack on her and her husband's death trying to protect her, her father Detective Bentz and his partner Montoya are beginning to wonder if the serial killer Father John has come back to life.
Her father and his partner Montoya have different theories and believe they are dealing with two different killers, as there have been other murders in the city. Is there a copy cat or is the notorious Father John really back from the dead? Or are they dealing with 2 different killers?
Kristi becomes consumed in avenging in her husband's death and she and her father start searching for answers in the many books that she has written. Each of those killers have a reason or motive to want her dead.
I love the determination and the strength that Kristi has in her search for her husband's killer. Some things I would never do and had me hollering at the book at her...LOL
This book has many twist and turns and has you questioning everybody and every one in her books as to who done it. An edge of your seat thriller, and just when you think you know who the killer is, your wrong again.
The ending was crazy and totally was not what I was expecting at all!!
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. So happy that I now have a new author to follow and looking forward to reading more books by Lisa Jackson.
May 22, 2023
The Last Sinner by Lisa Jackson. I didn't realize this was book 9 and part of a series, so I recommend that you start with book 1 to get a better understanding how it all started, I did go back to book one to see how the story started by other reviews and got a idea so I wasn't completely lost.
September 11, 2023
Novel received courtesy of Goodreads.com First Reads Giveaways
Even though I haven't read #1-8 in the Rick Bentz/Reuben Montoya series, I didn't feel like I couldn't keep up with the story. The novel opens with Kristi Bentz, Rick's daughter, being followed and attacked. Her husband shows up as the attack is happening and he is killed by the attacker. Kristi wounds the guy and she survives. The same week, a prostitute is killed with a familiar weapon. A weapon used by a murderer, Father John, whom Rick thought he killed in the bayou many years ago.
Kristi cannot believe how her life was just blown up. She is a true crime novelist and has written books about many killers. The problem is: Who is trying to kill Kristi? Is it Father John, back from the dead and trying to take revenge on Detective Bentz by killing his daughter? Is it another killer that Kristi wrote about who is trying to take revenge on her for profiting from his story? There are many possibilities.
I enjoyed this novel very much. Lisa Jackson is a wonderful author who has written a complex story. I would not hesitate to pick up the entire series. By the final 3 paragraphs of this book, I'm pretty sure there will be a #10!
Even though I haven't read #1-8 in the Rick Bentz/Reuben Montoya series, I didn't feel like I couldn't keep up with the story. The novel opens with Kristi Bentz, Rick's daughter, being followed and attacked. Her husband shows up as the attack is happening and he is killed by the attacker. Kristi wounds the guy and she survives. The same week, a prostitute is killed with a familiar weapon. A weapon used by a murderer, Father John, whom Rick thought he killed in the bayou many years ago.
Kristi cannot believe how her life was just blown up. She is a true crime novelist and has written books about many killers. The problem is: Who is trying to kill Kristi? Is it Father John, back from the dead and trying to take revenge on Detective Bentz by killing his daughter? Is it another killer that Kristi wrote about who is trying to take revenge on her for profiting from his story? There are many possibilities.
I enjoyed this novel very much. Lisa Jackson is a wonderful author who has written a complex story. I would not hesitate to pick up the entire series. By the final 3 paragraphs of this book, I'm pretty sure there will be a #10!
July 8, 2023
Received this book as an ARC. This was my first Lisa Jackson book and unfortunately, I wasn't crazy about it. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't get into it. There were a few storylines happening at once, which could work, but instead, just felt messy and took away from other important parts of the book. Overall, the story was poorly executed, repetitive and slow.
I did enjoy how Jackson intertwined Kristi and Cruz's story without leaving a cliff hanger.
I did enjoy how Jackson intertwined Kristi and Cruz's story without leaving a cliff hanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
Kristi Bentz is a true crime author that is attacked on the streets one night with her husband. After the traffic attack that takes the life of her husband, Kristi is thrust deep into speculation, trying to discover who her killer could be. Her father, a detective in the police force, believes the killer to be a resurrected serial killer that he helped take down, much to everyone's disbelief. Both Kristi and her father dive into her past, scouring her famous best-selling true crime novels about local killers and famous murders whilst uncovering clues left behind, targeting Kristi.
This was an intriguing read from start to finish. I did feel that the first half of the book was on the slower side (I did this as a buddy read and read it as a standalone novel). This book is mostly focused on the plot with a tiny bit of character development, which I have to admit, I wish there was a little more in-depth turmoil with the characters. Overall some of the side characters, like Montoya, felt a bit flat to me.
The plot was also slightly complex, moreso focusing on the "who-done-it" aspect while balancing it out with the perspective of the mysterious killer. The conclusion and the murderer was definitely not who I was anticipating it to be, so I am happy to admit that I enjoyed the small plot twist. (09/2023)
This was an intriguing read from start to finish. I did feel that the first half of the book was on the slower side (I did this as a buddy read and read it as a standalone novel). This book is mostly focused on the plot with a tiny bit of character development, which I have to admit, I wish there was a little more in-depth turmoil with the characters. Overall some of the side characters, like Montoya, felt a bit flat to me.
The plot was also slightly complex, moreso focusing on the "who-done-it" aspect while balancing it out with the perspective of the mysterious killer. The conclusion and the murderer was definitely not who I was anticipating it to be, so I am happy to admit that I enjoyed the small plot twist. (09/2023)
September 19, 2023
I've read quite a few books by Lisa Jackson by now. I really liked this series about Rick Bentz and Reuben Montoya!
You could read this book without having read the ones before but I recommend starting from the beginning.
I've read the books in the right order so by now I know all the characters.
I really look forward to the next book!
You could read this book without having read the ones before but I recommend starting from the beginning.
I've read the books in the right order so by now I know all the characters.
I really look forward to the next book!
July 25, 2023
The shocking twist is...these stories never end.
I feel like I've had my rights violated, been through double jeopardy, along with several recurring characters in the Bentz/Montoya universe. It's not enough to fight for your life once in these books. Nope, every day is a new opportunity to put yourself in harm's way, do business with people who arguably are as psychopathic as the serial killers they long for their writers to write about and argue with, and assert your independence if it kills you. Please, please, PLEASE can we retire the trope of the woman claiming "if I live in fear he wins"? There's living in fear and there's not being a moron, accepting a little protection when a killer is most certainly after you. There's got to be a way to make intelligent female characters a little more intelligent when it comes to survival and still move thrillers along. It's 2023. The characters have read those books. Anyway, this one was difficult to read because it was cruel to characters we're attached to, it teased the next book (I think) and a couple other potential problems that we now know can be enormous in the future, and it left Montoya looking kind of mean.
I feel like I've had my rights violated, been through double jeopardy, along with several recurring characters in the Bentz/Montoya universe. It's not enough to fight for your life once in these books. Nope, every day is a new opportunity to put yourself in harm's way, do business with people who arguably are as psychopathic as the serial killers they long for their writers to write about and argue with, and assert your independence if it kills you. Please, please, PLEASE can we retire the trope of the woman claiming "if I live in fear he wins"? There's living in fear and there's not being a moron, accepting a little protection when a killer is most certainly after you. There's got to be a way to make intelligent female characters a little more intelligent when it comes to survival and still move thrillers along. It's 2023. The characters have read those books. Anyway, this one was difficult to read because it was cruel to characters we're attached to, it teased the next book (I think) and a couple other potential problems that we now know can be enormous in the future, and it left Montoya looking kind of mean.
February 15, 2023
This is part of a series but I was happy that it worked as a stand alone as I hadn't read the previous books. Bentz and Montoya are back in New Orleans trying to find a serial killer. Kristi Bentz escaped alive but her husband was brutally stabbed to death. She is isn't sure if she was the intended target or if it is retaliation against her dad for being a cop.
Kristi writes true crime books. The night of the attack she was fighting with her husband over it as he wanted her to quit writing as it was putting her in harms way. She didn't believe that for a second but now that Jay is dead, maybe he was right? Jay died protecting her and you can feel the guilt she carries around radiate off the pages.
They believe Father John is back because someone is tormenting Kristi and leaving bible verses in her home. Dead bodies pile up pretty quickly and some strangled with rosary beads so this isn't for the faint of heart. It was creepy but so much fun to read this gothic southern thriller.
Thank you Kensington Books and Net Galley for my e-book.
Kristi writes true crime books. The night of the attack she was fighting with her husband over it as he wanted her to quit writing as it was putting her in harms way. She didn't believe that for a second but now that Jay is dead, maybe he was right? Jay died protecting her and you can feel the guilt she carries around radiate off the pages.
They believe Father John is back because someone is tormenting Kristi and leaving bible verses in her home. Dead bodies pile up pretty quickly and some strangled with rosary beads so this isn't for the faint of heart. It was creepy but so much fun to read this gothic southern thriller.
Thank you Kensington Books and Net Galley for my e-book.
August 18, 2023
I think this book was twice as long as it should have been; most chapters just kept repeating the same details and feelings. It also felt like two books mashed together that sometimes crossed over just to make the added characters relevant.
February 4, 2023
Bentz and Montoya are back only this time Bentz lost his son-in-law and almost lost his daughter. This book is a page turner that you won't be able to stop reading. I stayed up way later than I should have to read it. It kept me guessing until the end. Lisa Jackson is, hands down, one of my favorite authors. She knows how to tell a story. I've read more of her books than I can count and this book does not disappoint. You do not have to read the previous Bentz and Montoya books to know what is going on, though, they are great books to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books and Lisa Jackson for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books and Lisa Jackson for the opportunity to read this ARC.
July 19, 2024
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 9 of 9.
I am a fan of Lisa Jackson. I started this series years ago.
Father John has returned to New Orleans and started murdering whores. Bentz and Montoya are searching for the truth. There is a happy ending 😀.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventure mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024
This kindle e-book novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book 9 of 9.
I am a fan of Lisa Jackson. I started this series years ago.
Father John has returned to New Orleans and started murdering whores. Bentz and Montoya are searching for the truth. There is a happy ending 😀.
I would recommend this series and author to 👍 readers of romantic family and friends relationships adventure mystery novels 👍🔰. 2024
April 19, 2024
Dull and boring. Do not understand how this is rated so highly! I found the characters so boring and they all had names that were so left of field and silly that the whole thing felt like a gal sat in her basement and wrote the most ridiculous book you could possibly think of. Snooze.
February 27, 2023
Kristi Bentz is a writer of true life killer books. When she and her husband are attacked one night, he dies and she is left coping and trying to move on with her life. Investigators Montoya and Bentz, Kristi's dad, are working the case of a copycat killer that Kristi wrote a book about years ago, called the"Rosary Killer" and all of a sudden, their investigation and her attack become part of the same story today.
And the story takes off from there.
With two parallel storylines happening simultaneously, the real plot became a bit confusing at times. And the characters, particularly Kristi , were just not strong enough and, actually, a little too wishy washy for me.
I really like Lisa Jackson's books but this one just did not hit a bulls eye with me.
And the story takes off from there.
With two parallel storylines happening simultaneously, the real plot became a bit confusing at times. And the characters, particularly Kristi , were just not strong enough and, actually, a little too wishy washy for me.
I really like Lisa Jackson's books but this one just did not hit a bulls eye with me.
September 18, 2023
The Last Sinner is book 9 in the New Orleans series featuring Bentz and Montoya. The Last Sinner is a suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the end. Bentz and Montoya faced one of the worst serial killers ever when they chased down Father John in a previous book. Bentz shot Father John in the swamp, but his body was never found. Now there are prostitutes being killed in the same way that Father John killed his victims. Could it be a copycat or is Father John still alive? The killer is even leaving the same calling card. Who could be doing this?
Bentz's daughter, Kristi, is attacked as she is leaving her yoga class. The person has been watching and waiting for the perfect time and now is the time! As he waits, Kristi is late coming out of the gym. The stalker knows what time she arrives, how long she's normally in there, and what time she leaves. Finally, she comes out to his delight. As he's in the shadows, he waits until she's close. He jumps out and grabs her. He's holding a knife and tries to stab Kristi as she struggles. He gets Kristi in the shoulder and she's able to scratch his face badly. Suddenly, Kristi's husband is there to help her. The stalker quickly takes the knife and stabs her husband, while pushing Kristi down. Kristi bangs her head hard and is dazed. As she gets her bearings, she rushes to her husband who is bleeding badly. The stalker gets away.
As help arrives, Kristi and her husband are taken to the hospital. Kristi will be fine with a concussion and a stab wound to her shoulder that should heal with no problem. Her husband wasn't as lucky and Kristi's life as she knows it is over. As her father arrives with his partner they try to figure out who would do this and why? Is the attacker someone trying to get to Detective Bentz, Kristi's father or is the attacker someone trying to get at Kristi for her true crime novels? It seems like they wanted to kill Kristi but the motive is unclear. Kristi's husband isn't normally at the gym and he was just win the wrong place at the wrong time. He and Kristi had an argument before she left for the gym and he was there carrying roses to apologize. Now Kristi has to plan his funeral and try to find a way to carry on without him.
The attacker is always watching and waiting. Who is he and why does he want Kristi dead? Could the killings of the prostitutes be connected? Could Father John be back and doing both? Are there two different people to find? The Last Sinner will have you checking the locks on your doors and windows as you read. Someone keeps getting in Kristi's house and leaving things for her. Kristi refuses to leave the house even though her father wants her to stay with him and his wife. She doesn't want to give in to the attacker and let him know that she's scared. A little kitten is in Kristi's garage one evening and she takes her in. She's the sweetest little thing and it helps Kristi to have a companion. Kristi also decides to get a dog as she and her husband were going to do that soon. Their other dogs had passed away and they were waiting for the right time. Kristi wanted a big dog to help her feel more secure at home and when she went jogging. She can feel eyes on her and wants to be safe.
Will Bentz and Montoya find out who's behind the killings to prevent more? Will they figure out who is behind the attack on Kristi and her husband before he tries again? Kristi has a secret that makes her life even more meaningful now. Will she be okay? Kristi starts investigating on her own and her agent wants her to do a follow up book on Father John. Should she do it? Will a new book put her in more danger? When her friend wants her to do a talk show to discuss her true crime books, will the stalker see it? Will he become more enraged? I really enjoyed The Last Sinner and Lisa Jackson does a great job at building the suspense until the very end. I rate The Last Sinner 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Kensington books for an advanced copy of The Last Sinner in exchange for a fair review. #TheLastSinner
Bentz's daughter, Kristi, is attacked as she is leaving her yoga class. The person has been watching and waiting for the perfect time and now is the time! As he waits, Kristi is late coming out of the gym. The stalker knows what time she arrives, how long she's normally in there, and what time she leaves. Finally, she comes out to his delight. As he's in the shadows, he waits until she's close. He jumps out and grabs her. He's holding a knife and tries to stab Kristi as she struggles. He gets Kristi in the shoulder and she's able to scratch his face badly. Suddenly, Kristi's husband is there to help her. The stalker quickly takes the knife and stabs her husband, while pushing Kristi down. Kristi bangs her head hard and is dazed. As she gets her bearings, she rushes to her husband who is bleeding badly. The stalker gets away.
As help arrives, Kristi and her husband are taken to the hospital. Kristi will be fine with a concussion and a stab wound to her shoulder that should heal with no problem. Her husband wasn't as lucky and Kristi's life as she knows it is over. As her father arrives with his partner they try to figure out who would do this and why? Is the attacker someone trying to get to Detective Bentz, Kristi's father or is the attacker someone trying to get at Kristi for her true crime novels? It seems like they wanted to kill Kristi but the motive is unclear. Kristi's husband isn't normally at the gym and he was just win the wrong place at the wrong time. He and Kristi had an argument before she left for the gym and he was there carrying roses to apologize. Now Kristi has to plan his funeral and try to find a way to carry on without him.
The attacker is always watching and waiting. Who is he and why does he want Kristi dead? Could the killings of the prostitutes be connected? Could Father John be back and doing both? Are there two different people to find? The Last Sinner will have you checking the locks on your doors and windows as you read. Someone keeps getting in Kristi's house and leaving things for her. Kristi refuses to leave the house even though her father wants her to stay with him and his wife. She doesn't want to give in to the attacker and let him know that she's scared. A little kitten is in Kristi's garage one evening and she takes her in. She's the sweetest little thing and it helps Kristi to have a companion. Kristi also decides to get a dog as she and her husband were going to do that soon. Their other dogs had passed away and they were waiting for the right time. Kristi wanted a big dog to help her feel more secure at home and when she went jogging. She can feel eyes on her and wants to be safe.
Will Bentz and Montoya find out who's behind the killings to prevent more? Will they figure out who is behind the attack on Kristi and her husband before he tries again? Kristi has a secret that makes her life even more meaningful now. Will she be okay? Kristi starts investigating on her own and her agent wants her to do a follow up book on Father John. Should she do it? Will a new book put her in more danger? When her friend wants her to do a talk show to discuss her true crime books, will the stalker see it? Will he become more enraged? I really enjoyed The Last Sinner and Lisa Jackson does a great job at building the suspense until the very end. I rate The Last Sinner 4 stars with a high recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Kensington books for an advanced copy of The Last Sinner in exchange for a fair review. #TheLastSinner
April 21, 2023
She had been so busy grieving and feeling sorry for herself, so dulled by her own pain, she had lost her need for the truth, her desire to find her husband's killer, to expose him and bring him to justice. But that changed today.
Kristi Bentz author of crime novels may have gotten her material from her father New Orleans homicide detectives Rick Bentz. However, the material becomes personal when her husband becomes a victim of a vicious attack. She keeps playing her last few hours with him. Her last words to him. He dies trying to protect her. Was it a random act of violence or were they the targets? If so, why?
Her father is on a one track mind when it comes to the violence his daughter faced. Is it Father John who has come back from the dead. Several women have been found with the same MO and one escapes. His partner Montoya does not think so and forces Rick to stay away from the case of his daughter.
So much going on...Kristi going thru the trauma of witnessing the death of her husband, her emotions, and the surprise gift her husband left her. She reviews her old books to find any clue to who may have wanted her dead. Montoya has his own personal drama with his brother that ties with Kristi. (This makes me wonder if a continuation will be with the brother and Kristi).
I liked how it all "tied" up. It took me by surprise and I loved the grit of those striving for justice.
A special thank you to Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Kristi Bentz author of crime novels may have gotten her material from her father New Orleans homicide detectives Rick Bentz. However, the material becomes personal when her husband becomes a victim of a vicious attack. She keeps playing her last few hours with him. Her last words to him. He dies trying to protect her. Was it a random act of violence or were they the targets? If so, why?
Her father is on a one track mind when it comes to the violence his daughter faced. Is it Father John who has come back from the dead. Several women have been found with the same MO and one escapes. His partner Montoya does not think so and forces Rick to stay away from the case of his daughter.
So much going on...Kristi going thru the trauma of witnessing the death of her husband, her emotions, and the surprise gift her husband left her. She reviews her old books to find any clue to who may have wanted her dead. Montoya has his own personal drama with his brother that ties with Kristi. (This makes me wonder if a continuation will be with the brother and Kristi).
I liked how it all "tied" up. It took me by surprise and I loved the grit of those striving for justice.
A special thank you to Kensington Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
July 3, 2023
Kristi was attacked outside her yoga class. Her husband was the one who took the brunt of it. He was there to apologize and he ended up getting killed trying to save her. Now Kristi is widowed, pregnant and determined to find out who killed her husband and why they came after her.
Is Father John back??? Bentz firmly believes he is and he is determined to find him and take him down. And Father John is targeting people close to Bentz, so time if of the essence.
I have been a fan of this author forever! I have not read a book by her in quite a while. This one was just ok. But, now to be honest, it could be me. She has some great ratings on this book. And I have been reading a whole lot lately and sometimes that leads me to burnout. And I may be headed that way. So my suggestion is read it! It is intense…which is what kept me reading!
Need a quick read for the beach…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this book from the publisher for a honest review.
Is Father John back??? Bentz firmly believes he is and he is determined to find him and take him down. And Father John is targeting people close to Bentz, so time if of the essence.
I have been a fan of this author forever! I have not read a book by her in quite a while. This one was just ok. But, now to be honest, it could be me. She has some great ratings on this book. And I have been reading a whole lot lately and sometimes that leads me to burnout. And I may be headed that way. So my suggestion is read it! It is intense…which is what kept me reading!
Need a quick read for the beach…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this book from the publisher for a honest review.
June 16, 2023
The Last Sinner. This book is a thrilling surprise. I was hooked from the first few pages. The characters are exciting and engaging. The book I will say is engaging as well. The killer is amazing.Even though I think that he should have more show time in this eight hour book. He was bloody marvelous. The writer did an excellent job of having the reader experience the book through the killers mind. The intensity level is top notch when the hunting takes place between the killer and the prey. Bents, his daughter Kristi and Montana a great. It was awesome to read how each character took part in this hunt by doing their own investigation. For me it was like who would catch hi first. Awesome writing from the writer.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2024
With a New Orleans setting, this is a good mystery thriller with murder,
Twists and turns, secrets, tension,and creepy scenes,and suspense. It was
Fast paced and kept you turning the pages to see what would happen next.
Once again the Rosary killer is out to get the people he deems against him
Including the writer and daughter of detective Rick Bentz. The opening
Is great and Kristi is chased and her husband is killed and it goes on from
There. This author doesn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
Twists and turns, secrets, tension,and creepy scenes,and suspense. It was
Fast paced and kept you turning the pages to see what would happen next.
Once again the Rosary killer is out to get the people he deems against him
Including the writer and daughter of detective Rick Bentz. The opening
Is great and Kristi is chased and her husband is killed and it goes on from
There. This author doesn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
October 1, 2025
At first, I thought the book contained more info than needed but after reading it, I now see why it did.
This book was so good, hard to put down(even though it took me personally longer to read)!!
You thought you knew who the killer but there were so many twists, you would never believe the ending!
I didn’t give it 5 stars only because it left me hanging, maybe a possible sequel to it!?!
4.5 stars for sure!!
This book was so good, hard to put down(even though it took me personally longer to read)!!
You thought you knew who the killer but there were so many twists, you would never believe the ending!
I didn’t give it 5 stars only because it left me hanging, maybe a possible sequel to it!?!
4.5 stars for sure!!
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