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J.J. Graves Mystery #14
Dirty Looks
The New York Times bestselling series is back with another "edge of your seat crime caper," featuring coroner JJ Graves.
When dispatch reaches out with a location for a homicide, the address is all too familiar. JJ practically grew up at the Lawson farm with Jack and his parents. But the body of the land developer who was discovered in the woods behind the house brings Jack's family into the spotlight. Especially since Jack's mother has had several altercations with the victim. Making her their number one suspect.
When dispatch reaches out with a location for a homicide, the address is all too familiar. JJ practically grew up at the Lawson farm with Jack and his parents. But the body of the land developer who was discovered in the woods behind the house brings Jack's family into the spotlight. Especially since Jack's mother has had several altercations with the victim. Making her their number one suspect.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
119 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Liliana Hart
207 books3,300 followersLiliana Hart spent five years teaching music in the public education system. She molded America’s youth, busted kids for smoking pot in the restrooms, and broke up illicit affairs behind the stage on a regular basis. (Liliana’s Addison Holmes Mystery Series, about a small town teacher who gets into a whole lot of trouble, is somewhat autobiographical, but she won’t confess to which parts).
Liliana began reading romance novels with all her new found free time, and when she ran out of things to read, she decided to write her own novels. The result was a 150,000 word thriller—a dazzling adventure—where the heroine was a thirty-year-old virgin assassin (Yes, you read that right). She couldn’t imagine why people weren’t knocking down her door to read it, but she persevered and began writing a second book. She finally got the hang of things, and eventually learned that losing one’s virginity wasn’t all that romantic after all. All of her books involve some kind of suspense (she just can't help herself), laughter, and a lot of steamy sex.
Since the failure of her first attempt, Liliana’s books have won awards such as: The Daphne Du Maurier, The Suzannah, The Linda Howard Award of Excellence, The Maggie, and many others. Her affiliations include Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Liliana loves to cook, and is addicted to reading, Internet Boggle, kickboxing, and Bones. She lives in a big, rambling house in Texas with a couple of cats to keep her company. She loves to get emails from readers.
Enjoy the Adventures!
Liliana began reading romance novels with all her new found free time, and when she ran out of things to read, she decided to write her own novels. The result was a 150,000 word thriller—a dazzling adventure—where the heroine was a thirty-year-old virgin assassin (Yes, you read that right). She couldn’t imagine why people weren’t knocking down her door to read it, but she persevered and began writing a second book. She finally got the hang of things, and eventually learned that losing one’s virginity wasn’t all that romantic after all. All of her books involve some kind of suspense (she just can't help herself), laughter, and a lot of steamy sex.
Since the failure of her first attempt, Liliana’s books have won awards such as: The Daphne Du Maurier, The Suzannah, The Linda Howard Award of Excellence, The Maggie, and many others. Her affiliations include Romance Writers of America and Mystery Writers of America.
Liliana loves to cook, and is addicted to reading, Internet Boggle, kickboxing, and Bones. She lives in a big, rambling house in Texas with a couple of cats to keep her company. She loves to get emails from readers.
Enjoy the Adventures!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 23, 2024
Holy effing moly!! Every time you think it cannot get better, Liliana proofs me wrong. I just finished the book in one go with my kindle glued to my hands as I couldn't stop reading. This is one of my favorite series and I just put off reading this book simply because the next one is so far away but I finally gave in and was immediately sucked into JJ's and Jack's world once more.
It starts with some kind of prolog which is told by a little girl who plays hide and seek at her grandmothers house and is taken by some man in the process. We learn through her eyes what is happening to her and how she tries to escape.. Then the story starts with JJ standing over the body of a little girl who was brutally murdered and left behind in a park with signs of sexual abuse on top of the other horrible things she obviously went through. It sets off the storyline when we learn that the girl is the daughter of Councilman Everett Lidle. When they contact the family, they learn that Evie Lidle was sent to her grandmother when she got sick with the stomach bug to avoid that her three younger sisters catch it as well. Then the news break that the grandmother was found unconscious in the house and was taken to the hospital where she was on life support. The family is one of the richest in the county and the well connected grandfather Robert Lidle tries everything to stall the investigation which seems odd as it's his granddaughter who was murdered, but Jaye, Martinez and Jack aren't intimidated by the powerful man and start to investigate and soon stumble upon a powerful network of human trafficking that is huge and involve very powerful people..
Wow, what a ride! And I was so glad to have Doug back. As I stated in my last review in this series, I missed him. He is such an entertaining character and some kind of consolation prize since Lilian is still not giving us Ben Carver back. I hope there is a story there some time in the future and he is woven back into the story. Maybe it is not the time yet but I haven't given up hope. We learn about Jaye's struggle with getting pregnant and how it affects her marriage. It made me sad that she is still so insecure of Jack's love which is so obvious for us readers on every page. She is his soulmate and they are such a great couple - as Jack said, children are a bonus but Jaye is his forever love.
The case was very interesting and at some point I thought that . The last chapters took me by surprise and I never would have guessed the killer. The epilog was the best and after I was finished, I immediately looked up the next book and groaned when I saw that it is only out end of March next year. Still, I one-clicked and pre-ordered the book. There are series out there where you feel like you read the same all over again and then there are series that evolve and get better with each book like Eve Dallas or JJ Graves. If you haven't started the series, you should pick up book 1 which is still for free on Amazon. Get on board and take the ride with Jaye and Jack and I can guarantee you will not regret it. Full 5 stars
It starts with some kind of prolog which is told by a little girl who plays hide and seek at her grandmothers house and is taken by some man in the process. We learn through her eyes what is happening to her and how she tries to escape.. Then the story starts with JJ standing over the body of a little girl who was brutally murdered and left behind in a park with signs of sexual abuse on top of the other horrible things she obviously went through. It sets off the storyline when we learn that the girl is the daughter of Councilman Everett Lidle. When they contact the family, they learn that Evie Lidle was sent to her grandmother when she got sick with the stomach bug to avoid that her three younger sisters catch it as well. Then the news break that the grandmother was found unconscious in the house and was taken to the hospital where she was on life support. The family is one of the richest in the county and the well connected grandfather Robert Lidle tries everything to stall the investigation which seems odd as it's his granddaughter who was murdered, but Jaye, Martinez and Jack aren't intimidated by the powerful man and start to investigate and soon stumble upon a powerful network of human trafficking that is huge and involve very powerful people..
Wow, what a ride! And I was so glad to have Doug back. As I stated in my last review in this series, I missed him. He is such an entertaining character and some kind of consolation prize since Lilian is still not giving us Ben Carver back. I hope there is a story there some time in the future and he is woven back into the story. Maybe it is not the time yet but I haven't given up hope. We learn about Jaye's struggle with getting pregnant and how it affects her marriage. It made me sad that she is still so insecure of Jack's love which is so obvious for us readers on every page. She is his soulmate and they are such a great couple - as Jack said, children are a bonus but Jaye is his forever love.
The case was very interesting and at some point I thought that . The last chapters took me by surprise and I never would have guessed the killer. The epilog was the best and after I was finished, I immediately looked up the next book and groaned when I saw that it is only out end of March next year. Still, I one-clicked and pre-ordered the book. There are series out there where you feel like you read the same all over again and then there are series that evolve and get better with each book like Eve Dallas or JJ Graves. If you haven't started the series, you should pick up book 1 which is still for free on Amazon. Get on board and take the ride with Jaye and Jack and I can guarantee you will not regret it. Full 5 stars
November 7, 2024
WOWZA…
This series is a big favorite of mine. And this book was dark, disturbing and so powerful. Fast paced with character continuity that is so good. The subject matter was heartbreaking and I still find myself thinking about the cruelty of the world.
If you love fast paced crime thrillers with great characters…this series is a must read. If you love Lisa Regan start this series TODAY.
This series is a big favorite of mine. And this book was dark, disturbing and so powerful. Fast paced with character continuity that is so good. The subject matter was heartbreaking and I still find myself thinking about the cruelty of the world.
If you love fast paced crime thrillers with great characters…this series is a must read. If you love Lisa Regan start this series TODAY.
November 21, 2024
Me faltó más desarrollo, todo fue muy rápido al final y aunque se cerró el caso de asesinato, quedaron cosas pendientes. Pero es entretenida y engancha. 3 ⭐️
March 1, 2025
So many questions answered, so many questions left. Did Molly know what was going on in that house? Why did Kitty stay married to Robert? It was too late to protect her family. Did Robert really off himself? Was Phin ignorant of his father's actions? Was he perhaps like his father? He left abruptly and stood apart from Everett and Janet. Did Emma reunited with her family? As I said so many questions. Wonder if any of them will be answered in the next book. And hurrah for Jack and JJ and their soon to be expanded family. Loved this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
This book opens with J.J. Graves, the medical examiner, at the scene of a murdered young child. Her husband, the Sheriff, is in court and another detective is assigned to the case. It's clear that the child fought back. Identifying the child is the first order of business. What they identify is a human trafficking ring with an usual leader.
November 8, 2024
Evil really exists
In this book, Jaye and Jack face true evil in the form of human trafficking and learn how far-reaching it is. They are dealing with multiple murders involving wealthy people, as well personal issues that are highly emotional. At the end of the day, they are still a team to be reckoned with and one of my favorites. Ms. Hart is amazing at presenting a complicated story with complex characters who continue to evolve book to book. I'm looking forward to the next volume. Highly recommended.
In this book, Jaye and Jack face true evil in the form of human trafficking and learn how far-reaching it is. They are dealing with multiple murders involving wealthy people, as well personal issues that are highly emotional. At the end of the day, they are still a team to be reckoned with and one of my favorites. Ms. Hart is amazing at presenting a complicated story with complex characters who continue to evolve book to book. I'm looking forward to the next volume. Highly recommended.
November 27, 2024
Outstanding Read on an Important Subject Matter!
This one was a hard one to read. Now I understand why the author stated that this installment of the series was the hardest to write. The subject matter was definitely a huge trigger.
From beginning to end, reading this was like being on a crazy rollercoater. Wow! I can't wait to read the next book, especially after reading the new revelation at the end!
I recommend it for readers to add this one to their ebook libraries or bookshelf! Outstanding writing and stellar storytelling at its best!
This one was a hard one to read. Now I understand why the author stated that this installment of the series was the hardest to write. The subject matter was definitely a huge trigger.
From beginning to end, reading this was like being on a crazy rollercoater. Wow! I can't wait to read the next book, especially after reading the new revelation at the end!
I recommend it for readers to add this one to their ebook libraries or bookshelf! Outstanding writing and stellar storytelling at its best!
January 20, 2026
4 Stars
Dirty Looks is Book #14 in the J.J. Graves Mystery Series by Liliana Hart.....
With the new instalment due to release soon, I decided to revisit the series again in preparation of ‘Fighting Dirty’ – I devoured the series, back-to-back, practically inhaling them over the weekend…
The series follows “J.J.” Graves - a mortician-turned-town coroner-turned sleuth --- and as the series unfolds we not only get to investigate some intriguing cases, but also learn of the ‘tangled web’ of secrets, lies, and intrigue that form her past. She has endured, been forged in fire, and come out stronger than ever (even if she can’t see that yet). Add local Sheriff, Jack Lawson to the mix, and we get a fantastic dynamic that’s as much about their relationship as it is about solving murders.
I have devoured each instalment of this series, and happily pounce on each new one as they release, following JJ and Jack as they investigate and unravel the clues to solve the mysteries. It is an easy, fun, and familiar read – a bit like visiting family. Of course, I love our MCs, but the recurring supporting cast are really great – and the town certainly has some quirky characters.
I did enjoy revisiting JJ and Jack, and remembering just how much I love them, their bond, commitment, skills, and their trusty ‘team’.
While each book can be read on its own, the ongoing character development makes the series especially rewarding when read in sequential order.
Perfect for readers who don’t want anything too ‘heavy’ but love a good mix of murder, mystery, endearing characters, and a dash of romance.
Happy Reading…
Dirty Looks is Book #14 in the J.J. Graves Mystery Series by Liliana Hart.....
With the new instalment due to release soon, I decided to revisit the series again in preparation of ‘Fighting Dirty’ – I devoured the series, back-to-back, practically inhaling them over the weekend…
The series follows “J.J.” Graves - a mortician-turned-town coroner-turned sleuth --- and as the series unfolds we not only get to investigate some intriguing cases, but also learn of the ‘tangled web’ of secrets, lies, and intrigue that form her past. She has endured, been forged in fire, and come out stronger than ever (even if she can’t see that yet). Add local Sheriff, Jack Lawson to the mix, and we get a fantastic dynamic that’s as much about their relationship as it is about solving murders.
I have devoured each instalment of this series, and happily pounce on each new one as they release, following JJ and Jack as they investigate and unravel the clues to solve the mysteries. It is an easy, fun, and familiar read – a bit like visiting family. Of course, I love our MCs, but the recurring supporting cast are really great – and the town certainly has some quirky characters.
I did enjoy revisiting JJ and Jack, and remembering just how much I love them, their bond, commitment, skills, and their trusty ‘team’.
While each book can be read on its own, the ongoing character development makes the series especially rewarding when read in sequential order.
Perfect for readers who don’t want anything too ‘heavy’ but love a good mix of murder, mystery, endearing characters, and a dash of romance.
Happy Reading…
November 13, 2024
Jack is away in court with Cole, so when a girl turns up dead, it’s Martinez and J. J. working it together. They start with identifying the child and informing her parents, a high profile couple with 4 other daughters.
Jack comes home and helps out, narrowing down how the girl was kidnapped from such a secure house, her grandparent’s place, and who on the inside was part of it.
More comes to light about the evil people behind the crime, not only murderers but human traffickers as well. By the time they find out who the killer is, several people in this network have been arrested, and it’s the best they can do to protect King George county, even if there’s a bigger network they can’t take down.
This was a heavy book, with, unfortunately, a timely and relevant subject, and some justice was good to see, but truly, it’s not enough for people who commits these crimes.
It was fun seeing Jaye with Martinez and having him take the lead, it would be cool to have Cole and Lily be the centre of a book too.
I hope the next book is a bit lighter, with strange circumstances and wacky citizens.
Jack comes home and helps out, narrowing down how the girl was kidnapped from such a secure house, her grandparent’s place, and who on the inside was part of it.
More comes to light about the evil people behind the crime, not only murderers but human traffickers as well. By the time they find out who the killer is, several people in this network have been arrested, and it’s the best they can do to protect King George county, even if there’s a bigger network they can’t take down.
This was a heavy book, with, unfortunately, a timely and relevant subject, and some justice was good to see, but truly, it’s not enough for people who commits these crimes.
It was fun seeing Jaye with Martinez and having him take the lead, it would be cool to have Cole and Lily be the centre of a book too.
I hope the next book is a bit lighter, with strange circumstances and wacky citizens.
February 7, 2025
Would have been a five but for too many similarities to a 30 year old book by a favorite author
I enjoyed this book quite a bit until I got to the meat of the deal and found myself having flashbacks to a 30 year old book by one of my absolute favorite authors, a book I have probably read at least ten times. There were too many strong similarities and it made me very uncomfortable. I can’t name them here because they are definite spoilers. But suffice to say anyone who read the old book would know exactly what book I’m talking about after reading this one.
There are differences in this plot of course but this key element is too much to ignore. I did enjoy the rest of the plot (and figured out who the killer was ahead of time) and I appreciated the scene where it was revealed though more brutality would have suited me fine.
The very end of the book presents a dilemma for future books it seems to me as certain elements of what makes these books so enjoyable would, it seems to me, have to change. I’ll be interested to see how it plays out.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit until I got to the meat of the deal and found myself having flashbacks to a 30 year old book by one of my absolute favorite authors, a book I have probably read at least ten times. There were too many strong similarities and it made me very uncomfortable. I can’t name them here because they are definite spoilers. But suffice to say anyone who read the old book would know exactly what book I’m talking about after reading this one.
There are differences in this plot of course but this key element is too much to ignore. I did enjoy the rest of the plot (and figured out who the killer was ahead of time) and I appreciated the scene where it was revealed though more brutality would have suited me fine.
The very end of the book presents a dilemma for future books it seems to me as certain elements of what makes these books so enjoyable would, it seems to me, have to change. I’ll be interested to see how it plays out.
October 30, 2024
Hart does it again
Liliana Hart is an amazing writer. I live for the J. J. Graves series. This one was so disturbing but Jack and Jaye are able to put the pieces together to get their criminals. I was on the edge of my seat from the prologue and didn’t take a breath until the last word in the last chapter before the epilogue. But even the epilogue had a surprise. I read it in one go. Thank you Liliana.
Liliana Hart is an amazing writer. I live for the J. J. Graves series. This one was so disturbing but Jack and Jaye are able to put the pieces together to get their criminals. I was on the edge of my seat from the prologue and didn’t take a breath until the last word in the last chapter before the epilogue. But even the epilogue had a surprise. I read it in one go. Thank you Liliana.
November 2, 2024
putting an end to horror
A bit of a change from the previous books, a very dark story of evil and suffering which unravels into startling revelations. Certainly not a fun read, but provocative and disturbing, and probably with the realisation that this situation is laced with reality. There are people in our world who act like this.
A satisfying ending, but so any lives ruined or damaged.
Loved the epilogue!
A bit of a change from the previous books, a very dark story of evil and suffering which unravels into startling revelations. Certainly not a fun read, but provocative and disturbing, and probably with the realisation that this situation is laced with reality. There are people in our world who act like this.
A satisfying ending, but so any lives ruined or damaged.
Loved the epilogue!
November 6, 2024
The body of twelve year old Evie Lille is found in Regent Park beaten, raped and brutally murdered. Jack is in court so Jaye is teamed up with Martinez. The Lidle family is very wealthy and owns a large estate in the county. As Jaye and Martinez investigate events don’t add up. Once Jack and Doug start assisting, it starts looking like a child trafficking case. More people are killed and things get both clearer and murkier.
January 13, 2025
Heart Pounding!
This is an excellent but very emotional murder investigation! It is an outstanding investigation by our diligent, persistent, and ruthless team of JJ, Jack, and the Sheriff's Dept of their county. I must warn readers this is an emotional , heart breaking topic of child abduction and sexual abuse! It is a difficult but fascinating g book----- I had to read it straight through to find what happened and the guilty individuals!
This is an excellent but very emotional murder investigation! It is an outstanding investigation by our diligent, persistent, and ruthless team of JJ, Jack, and the Sheriff's Dept of their county. I must warn readers this is an emotional , heart breaking topic of child abduction and sexual abuse! It is a difficult but fascinating g book----- I had to read it straight through to find what happened and the guilty individuals!
April 7, 2025
Wow, this one was emotional. The crime was particularly brutal. I thought the author did a good job of depicting how first responders handle such horrific crimes. JJ and Jack don't really work together much on this case as he is busy testifying in court. She works with Detective Martinez. It was great to get to know his character better. The resolution of the crime was handled well. This was another solid entry in this series. I would recommend it.
January 28, 2025
J.J. Graves does not disappoint!
You would think that a series of books with the same main character would get stale, but not this series. Every book is filled with interesting characters, suspense and sometimes romance. Cannot wait for the next book and hope J.J. continues for a long time. Thank you, Liliana!
You would think that a series of books with the same main character would get stale, but not this series. Every book is filled with interesting characters, suspense and sometimes romance. Cannot wait for the next book and hope J.J. continues for a long time. Thank you, Liliana!
October 30, 2024
Amazing
As always Liliana keeps you on the edge of your seat. I found myself trying to solve the crimes along with Jack and Jaye. And every time I thought I knew, there was another twist to the plot.
As always Liliana keeps you on the edge of your seat. I found myself trying to solve the crimes along with Jack and Jaye. And every time I thought I knew, there was another twist to the plot.
October 30, 2024
Wow!!
This one was hard to read and even harder to put down. Liliana, you have outdone yourself! Still want a little more payback justice to the villain but people, you won’t see this end UNTIL the end!
This one was hard to read and even harder to put down. Liliana, you have outdone yourself! Still want a little more payback justice to the villain but people, you won’t see this end UNTIL the end!
October 31, 2024
Excellent Excellent Book
Another fabulous book by liliana never expected the ending can not wait for the next book to come out this book should be a ten star book I highly recommend this book to everyone Dorothy Schaefer
Another fabulous book by liliana never expected the ending can not wait for the next book to come out this book should be a ten star book I highly recommend this book to everyone Dorothy Schaefer
November 4, 2024
Heartbreaking storyline
No one messes with this team read in one sitting could put it down the need for justice and understanding tore at me. Horrible tale so sad this kind of thing happens but beautifully dealt with if only everyone had this team on their side.
No one messes with this team read in one sitting could put it down the need for justice and understanding tore at me. Horrible tale so sad this kind of thing happens but beautifully dealt with if only everyone had this team on their side.
November 7, 2024
Brilliant as always.
The wait for Dirty Looks was certainly worth it. Jack and J J work amazingly well together to bring justice for the victims. And what great news at the very end! Can't wait to see how it all works out in the next book.
The wait for Dirty Looks was certainly worth it. Jack and J J work amazingly well together to bring justice for the victims. And what great news at the very end! Can't wait to see how it all works out in the next book.
November 10, 2024
astonishing !!
I am always giddy to start another book in this series. It is intriguing to see where the story line will go and what twists and turns will follow
This books did not disappoint. It was all that and a bag of chips. I am floored at the book and loved all of it
I am always giddy to start another book in this series. It is intriguing to see where the story line will go and what twists and turns will follow
This books did not disappoint. It was all that and a bag of chips. I am floored at the book and loved all of it
November 11, 2024
Love all these JJ Graves Mysteries
I have read them all and they are solid interesting mysteries and the main characters are people you care about. In this one the crime is sex trafficking which is harder to read about.
I have read them all and they are solid interesting mysteries and the main characters are people you care about. In this one the crime is sex trafficking which is harder to read about.
November 27, 2024
Wow
Cliff hanger. Great book with surprise ending. The subject matter is not for the faint of heart. Law enforcement deals with all kinds of slime and somehow manage to keep it together. God bless our officers.
Cliff hanger. Great book with surprise ending. The subject matter is not for the faint of heart. Law enforcement deals with all kinds of slime and somehow manage to keep it together. God bless our officers.
November 29, 2024
Warning: big trigger warnings for human trafficking on this one and all that is implied. Great mystery that keeps delivering surprises up to the end, but so devastating that things like this actually happen out there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2024
There is a sex trafficking ring working in King George county. Jack and Jay work to discover who is involved. Jack and Jay are working through their personal challenge of trying to become pregnant as they unravel a web of dangerous people.
December 26, 2024
Dirty Looks
Another great story by the author. First I thought this was going to be boring, but it heated up quickly. The crimes, sickness in families good story!! Can't wait for next!!
Another great story by the author. First I thought this was going to be boring, but it heated up quickly. The crimes, sickness in families good story!! Can't wait for next!!
March 10, 2025
the Good Reads plot summary says about a land developer, but this is about child trafficking. Too many similarities to a different series (In Death), basically just a few tweaks but still way too similar.
Want to read
April 17, 2024Purchased in epub format from Barnes and Noble for my Nook.
October 30, 2024
Fabulous read!!!:)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews