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The Fighting Detective #1
Kill Shot
Missing people. Shocking crimes. Dark secrets.
When a fisherman finds a mutilated body on the edge of a mangrove forest, it seems a straight-forward case — death by misadventure. The victim's wounds are consistent with a frenzied crocodile attack. Detectives quickly discover, however, this is a premediated and brutal murder.
And when a champion athlete disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows, but no one in the tight-knit community of Yorkville wants to talk.
Join Detective Sergeant Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor on an exhilarating ride through the tropics of Northern Australia as they hunt for a killer out of control.
Kill Shot is the first full-length novel in the stunning Fighting Detective mystery thriller series and can be read as a standalone. Perfect for fans of gripping police procedurals by David Baldacci, Michael Connelly and Ian Rankin.
When a fisherman finds a mutilated body on the edge of a mangrove forest, it seems a straight-forward case — death by misadventure. The victim's wounds are consistent with a frenzied crocodile attack. Detectives quickly discover, however, this is a premediated and brutal murder.
And when a champion athlete disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows, but no one in the tight-knit community of Yorkville wants to talk.
Join Detective Sergeant Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor on an exhilarating ride through the tropics of Northern Australia as they hunt for a killer out of control.
Kill Shot is the first full-length novel in the stunning Fighting Detective mystery thriller series and can be read as a standalone. Perfect for fans of gripping police procedurals by David Baldacci, Michael Connelly and Ian Rankin.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2024
1422 people are currently reading
615 people want to read
About the author
Blair Denholm
23 books225 followersBlair Denholm is a freelance writer and translator who has lived in Moscow, New York, Munich, Abu Dhabi and Australia. He has written content for commercial websites and done corporate voice-over work in English and Russian.
His first novel in the Gary Braswell series, SOLD, was released by Clan Destine Press in November 2017 and is getting rave reviews. He is also working on a murder mystery based on a real event that occurred in Moscow in the late 1980s.
Blair interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow, translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics and voted in a foreign election despite having no eligibility to do so. He was also almost lost at sea on a dilapidated Russian fishing boat sailing from Hobart to New Zealand. He currently resides in the beautiful Southern Downs district in Queensland with his partner Sandra and two crazy canines.
His first novel in the Gary Braswell series, SOLD, was released by Clan Destine Press in November 2017 and is getting rave reviews. He is also working on a murder mystery based on a real event that occurred in Moscow in the late 1980s.
Blair interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow, translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics and voted in a foreign election despite having no eligibility to do so. He was also almost lost at sea on a dilapidated Russian fishing boat sailing from Hobart to New Zealand. He currently resides in the beautiful Southern Downs district in Queensland with his partner Sandra and two crazy canines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 14, 2023
The discovery of a man's body, brutally mutilated by a crocodile, called Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon and his partner, Detective Constable Claudia Taylor to the edge of the mangroves outside the town of Yorkville in northern Queensland. It seemed a dreadful accident at first, until evidence of the man's death before he went in the water was discovered. Then another man was missing - was there a killer in the town who was taking out elite athletes who trained in the local gym?
Soon there was evidence of drugs surrounding both the dead man and the missing man. Jack and Claudia, along with their boss, Batista, were following all leads, getting search warrants, dodging the media - but still they were no further advanced. Would they find the missing man? And would they catch the killer before he killed again?
Kill Shot is the 1st in The Fighting Detective series by Aussie author Blair Denholm and I quite enjoyed it. Jack wasn't a nice person, a nice cop, and I didn't much like him. But Claudia was the opposite. And the plot was great. I'll check out #2 in the near future, and recommend Kill Shot to fans of the genre.
Soon there was evidence of drugs surrounding both the dead man and the missing man. Jack and Claudia, along with their boss, Batista, were following all leads, getting search warrants, dodging the media - but still they were no further advanced. Would they find the missing man? And would they catch the killer before he killed again?
Kill Shot is the 1st in The Fighting Detective series by Aussie author Blair Denholm and I quite enjoyed it. Jack wasn't a nice person, a nice cop, and I didn't much like him. But Claudia was the opposite. And the plot was great. I'll check out #2 in the near future, and recommend Kill Shot to fans of the genre.
March 22, 2021
Rounded up from roughly 3.5 stars ⭐️
Kill Shot follows Lisbon and Taylor after a local man has gone missing, his car found abandoned, and a body turns up.
I absolutely love a book that can transport me to another country from the comfort of my room. That is exactly what Blair Denholm has managed to do in this novel, flying me away to Australia alongside Jack.
The story was a great pace and kept me guessing all the way through. The last chapter kept me on tenterhooks, just as I thought the story was leading to a happy ending, Denholm threw in a twist. I love the complexity of Jack’s character, he is simultaneously good and bad, in a perfect combination. I particularly love his development from Fighting Dirty, to the man he is in this novel, it warmed my heart.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Jack Lisbon series and cannot wait to see what adventures he goes on next. I am so grateful to the author and Voracious Readers Only for allowing me to read this book and give my personal opinion.
Kill Shot follows Lisbon and Taylor after a local man has gone missing, his car found abandoned, and a body turns up.
I absolutely love a book that can transport me to another country from the comfort of my room. That is exactly what Blair Denholm has managed to do in this novel, flying me away to Australia alongside Jack.
The story was a great pace and kept me guessing all the way through. The last chapter kept me on tenterhooks, just as I thought the story was leading to a happy ending, Denholm threw in a twist. I love the complexity of Jack’s character, he is simultaneously good and bad, in a perfect combination. I particularly love his development from Fighting Dirty, to the man he is in this novel, it warmed my heart.
I am thoroughly enjoying the Jack Lisbon series and cannot wait to see what adventures he goes on next. I am so grateful to the author and Voracious Readers Only for allowing me to read this book and give my personal opinion.
April 12, 2022
Having been asked by Blair Denholm to read the latest in the Jack Lisbon series, I thought it best to acquaint myself with the previous works. A feisty detective who is trying to make a life for himself in Australia, DS Jack Lisbon has a great deal going on, including some intense casework. When an abandoned vehicle turns up, it appears to belong to a gritty MMA fighter. With no body, DS Lisbon and his team must scour the area for clues and leads. What they discover is a far more complex situation, involving a handful of other fighters and revenge on the menu. Denholm begins things well with this series, sure to pack a punch as things progress.
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has been through a great deal wince arriving in Australia. Having been a decent detective for the London Met, life came crashing down when he refused to ‘colour in the lines’, costing him most everything, including a relationship and little girl. Now he’s relocated to the other side of the world and is trying to make a name for himself, alongside a strong group of detectives.
When Lisbon is alerted to an abandoned vehicle with significant amounts of blood, he is unsure what to expect. Registered to a gritty MMA fighter, the vehicle is full of forensic clues, but no body. As Lisbon and his team commence an investigation, they discover that life in the world of MMA fighters is more than just train and brawl. There is a much darker side and one worth exploring a little more.
When a body turns up, having been a buffet for the crocs, Lisbon hopes that they ha cracked the case wide open and found their purported victim. However, DNA results are not as promising and the case opens up with new leads and some clues that relate more confusion. While Lisbon tries to stay on the straight and narrow, he cannot help but want to venture a little outside of his superior’s orders, if it will help solve the case.
When aspects of the darker side of MMA fighting come to the surface, Lisbon cannot help but push a little more, discovering many who would love to exact revenge on their opponents. Lisbon must narrow the suspect list quickly if he is to close the case, but cannot help wondering if he is missing something important. Denholm does well with this series debut, leaving the reader wondering about Lisbon’s abilities.
I always enjoy new authors and their strong series, Blair Denholm came recommended to me by another author whose work is stellar and so I was eager to give this series a try. Denholm does well to set the scene and keep the reader engaged, revealing just enough to keep the story moving along, yet adding degrees of suspense to keep everyone on their toes. I can see things going well with this series, so I will surely rush to read more, if only to discover some of the inner workings of DS Jack Lisbon.
DS Jack Lisbon has a great deal going on, even with only a single book done in the series. He is a keen detective, but not one to follow orders with any regularity. This is surely how he ended up on the other side of the world, away from his family and the job he loved with the Met. Still, Lisbon works his cases effectively and has a knack for making sense of the smallest clue, turning it into a larger lead that could open a case wide. I am eager to learn more about the man, and notice that Blair Denholm has a prequel short story on offer that could assist there. As the series progresses, this will surely be more about Lisbon that comes to light, just what I need to whet my appetite for another great police procedural series.
Blair Denholm has all the ingredients to create a strong series and puts them on offer here. I was pleased to see how the narrative set the pace early on and left me wanting to know more, as I forged ahead. Strong characters and a well-defined protagonist kept me connected to the story with each page flip. The plot was easy to decipher and worked well, without getting too bogged down in police work or tangents. I like a series that flows well and keeps a good pace, something Denholm does effectively here. I will rush to read the prequel short story and keep pushing ahead to learn more about this copper who’s sure to use much of his experience to solve more crimes.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for a great series debut. Bring on more DS Jack Lisbon and his rebellious ways!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has been through a great deal wince arriving in Australia. Having been a decent detective for the London Met, life came crashing down when he refused to ‘colour in the lines’, costing him most everything, including a relationship and little girl. Now he’s relocated to the other side of the world and is trying to make a name for himself, alongside a strong group of detectives.
When Lisbon is alerted to an abandoned vehicle with significant amounts of blood, he is unsure what to expect. Registered to a gritty MMA fighter, the vehicle is full of forensic clues, but no body. As Lisbon and his team commence an investigation, they discover that life in the world of MMA fighters is more than just train and brawl. There is a much darker side and one worth exploring a little more.
When a body turns up, having been a buffet for the crocs, Lisbon hopes that they ha cracked the case wide open and found their purported victim. However, DNA results are not as promising and the case opens up with new leads and some clues that relate more confusion. While Lisbon tries to stay on the straight and narrow, he cannot help but want to venture a little outside of his superior’s orders, if it will help solve the case.
When aspects of the darker side of MMA fighting come to the surface, Lisbon cannot help but push a little more, discovering many who would love to exact revenge on their opponents. Lisbon must narrow the suspect list quickly if he is to close the case, but cannot help wondering if he is missing something important. Denholm does well with this series debut, leaving the reader wondering about Lisbon’s abilities.
I always enjoy new authors and their strong series, Blair Denholm came recommended to me by another author whose work is stellar and so I was eager to give this series a try. Denholm does well to set the scene and keep the reader engaged, revealing just enough to keep the story moving along, yet adding degrees of suspense to keep everyone on their toes. I can see things going well with this series, so I will surely rush to read more, if only to discover some of the inner workings of DS Jack Lisbon.
DS Jack Lisbon has a great deal going on, even with only a single book done in the series. He is a keen detective, but not one to follow orders with any regularity. This is surely how he ended up on the other side of the world, away from his family and the job he loved with the Met. Still, Lisbon works his cases effectively and has a knack for making sense of the smallest clue, turning it into a larger lead that could open a case wide. I am eager to learn more about the man, and notice that Blair Denholm has a prequel short story on offer that could assist there. As the series progresses, this will surely be more about Lisbon that comes to light, just what I need to whet my appetite for another great police procedural series.
Blair Denholm has all the ingredients to create a strong series and puts them on offer here. I was pleased to see how the narrative set the pace early on and left me wanting to know more, as I forged ahead. Strong characters and a well-defined protagonist kept me connected to the story with each page flip. The plot was easy to decipher and worked well, without getting too bogged down in police work or tangents. I like a series that flows well and keeps a good pace, something Denholm does effectively here. I will rush to read the prequel short story and keep pushing ahead to learn more about this copper who’s sure to use much of his experience to solve more crimes.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for a great series debut. Bring on more DS Jack Lisbon and his rebellious ways!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 8, 2021
When I read the prequel Fighting Dirty I didn’t like Jack Lisbon at all. He was an alcoholic, a bent cop and had no morals. I was happy to see in Kill Shot he is a paragon of virtue…. well almost.
Set four years after Fighting Dirty, Jack still has his moments but he is trying to clean up his act. He can be quite cynical and brutal. He is partnered with DI Claudia Taylor, a woman that doesn’t take any nonsense from Jack. She brushes off his offensive remarks and gives as good back.
Blair Denholm has given his readers an intriguing police procedural set in Far North Queensland. I quite enjoyed all the boxing references and the rivalry between the boxers which brought back memories of my son as an amateur boxer.
Kill Shot was filled with sufficient action and danger to keep my interest and Jack Lisbon’s character had enough growth to make him somewhat likeable but didn’t change so much that it would be unbelievable.
I am looking forward to the next book Shot Clock, which is waiting on my Kindle.
Set four years after Fighting Dirty, Jack still has his moments but he is trying to clean up his act. He can be quite cynical and brutal. He is partnered with DI Claudia Taylor, a woman that doesn’t take any nonsense from Jack. She brushes off his offensive remarks and gives as good back.
Blair Denholm has given his readers an intriguing police procedural set in Far North Queensland. I quite enjoyed all the boxing references and the rivalry between the boxers which brought back memories of my son as an amateur boxer.
Kill Shot was filled with sufficient action and danger to keep my interest and Jack Lisbon’s character had enough growth to make him somewhat likeable but didn’t change so much that it would be unbelievable.
I am looking forward to the next book Shot Clock, which is waiting on my Kindle.
December 8, 2020
An English policeman with a shady past relocated to north Queensland is the lead detective in this Aussie crime story. As an ex-pugilist, he is the appropriate investigator for the murder of a MMA fighter and his missing trainer. His partner is a sharp witted, savvy side kick who balances his tendencies to push the boundaries of correct police procedure. With the heat, crocodiles, press speculation, and lack of progress, the pressure is on for a fast resolution. A cracking police procedural and a highly enjoyable read. I look forward to the subsequent adventures of the promising crime fighting duo. Overall, a deserved four-star rating.
November 15, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s
The first full length novel featuring Jack Lisbon. It’s a quick and exciting read that keeps you turning pages. It’s great to see Jack Lisbon thriving in his new job.
Fantastic Aussie crime thriller with great twists.
If you’re curious about Jack Lisbon’s past before he moved to Australia read the prequel Fighting Dirty, well worth reading.
The first full length novel featuring Jack Lisbon. It’s a quick and exciting read that keeps you turning pages. It’s great to see Jack Lisbon thriving in his new job.
Fantastic Aussie crime thriller with great twists.
If you’re curious about Jack Lisbon’s past before he moved to Australia read the prequel Fighting Dirty, well worth reading.
June 10, 2024
Working his first homicide case since relocating from the United Kingdom, Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon must prove he's got what it takes to perform in the heat of tropical Northern Australia.
When a mutilated body washes up on the edge of a mangrove forest, it seems a straight-forward case — death by misadventure. The victim's wounds are consistent with a frenzied crocodile attack. Detectives quickly discover, however, this is a premediated and brutal murder.
And when a champion athlete disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows, but no one in the tight-knit community of Yorkville wants to talk.
Join tough ex-boxer DS Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor as they hunt for a killer out of control.
This is the first full length novel about Jack Lisbon, a gritty explosive Policeman, who was forced to move from London to Queensland. Murder, drug trafficking, domestic abuse, sweatshops and prize fighting rivalry are all in the melting pot.
A real anti-hero, not a particular likeable character, but a tough and rough cop, with a softness of his love of his daughter.
A tough going to start as a little slow and lots of characters, speeds up though the last half of the book.
Three stars from me.
When a mutilated body washes up on the edge of a mangrove forest, it seems a straight-forward case — death by misadventure. The victim's wounds are consistent with a frenzied crocodile attack. Detectives quickly discover, however, this is a premediated and brutal murder.
And when a champion athlete disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows, but no one in the tight-knit community of Yorkville wants to talk.
Join tough ex-boxer DS Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor as they hunt for a killer out of control.
This is the first full length novel about Jack Lisbon, a gritty explosive Policeman, who was forced to move from London to Queensland. Murder, drug trafficking, domestic abuse, sweatshops and prize fighting rivalry are all in the melting pot.
A real anti-hero, not a particular likeable character, but a tough and rough cop, with a softness of his love of his daughter.
A tough going to start as a little slow and lots of characters, speeds up though the last half of the book.
Three stars from me.
December 9, 2020
‘The whole scene looks dodgy’ – Lisbon outback
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published five books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, and now KILL SHOT. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! KILL SHOT is the second installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who is rapidly becoming a terrific character to follow.
In his now usual style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a multi sensual image: ‘...Bright tropical sunlight bore through the window, combined with the ambient swelter to turn Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon’s bedroom into a torture chamber. ‘Remember to close the venetian blinds next time, moron. And get the air conditioner serviced.’ Lying in bed now unbearable, he stood, wobbled a fraction. In his semi-delirium, he determined to take a cold shower before the Good Lord claimed him. Lisbon tottered towards the bathroom. He rubbed his eyes softly as he went, wondered how red they’d be after last night’s binge. He’d stayed more or less sober for three years with the odd gentle tumble off the wagon. Last night’s call with his ex-wife had a bigger impact on him than he could have imagined.’ And so we find Detective Lisbon now in Australia, and that degree of atmosphere pervades every page of this novel.
The intriguing plot is condensed in the fine synopsis: ‘When a body is found in the mangroves, mutilated beyond recognition, the tropical town of Yorkville is gripped by fear. What appears to have been a rogue crocodile attack is soon established as a shocking murder. Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has to solve the mystery before the population goes into a blind panic. When a popular champion MMA fighter disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows longer, but no one in the closed fighting community is talking. Working his first big case in a new country, ex-boxer Lisbon pulls no punches to find the culprit. DS Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor pursue on a heart-thumping ride through the steamy tropics of Northern Australia as they hunt for a killer out of control.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, KILL SHOT has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative new character to follow.
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published five books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, and now KILL SHOT. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! KILL SHOT is the second installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who is rapidly becoming a terrific character to follow.
In his now usual style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a multi sensual image: ‘...Bright tropical sunlight bore through the window, combined with the ambient swelter to turn Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon’s bedroom into a torture chamber. ‘Remember to close the venetian blinds next time, moron. And get the air conditioner serviced.’ Lying in bed now unbearable, he stood, wobbled a fraction. In his semi-delirium, he determined to take a cold shower before the Good Lord claimed him. Lisbon tottered towards the bathroom. He rubbed his eyes softly as he went, wondered how red they’d be after last night’s binge. He’d stayed more or less sober for three years with the odd gentle tumble off the wagon. Last night’s call with his ex-wife had a bigger impact on him than he could have imagined.’ And so we find Detective Lisbon now in Australia, and that degree of atmosphere pervades every page of this novel.
The intriguing plot is condensed in the fine synopsis: ‘When a body is found in the mangroves, mutilated beyond recognition, the tropical town of Yorkville is gripped by fear. What appears to have been a rogue crocodile attack is soon established as a shocking murder. Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has to solve the mystery before the population goes into a blind panic. When a popular champion MMA fighter disappears, police now face a possible double homicide. The list of suspects grows longer, but no one in the closed fighting community is talking. Working his first big case in a new country, ex-boxer Lisbon pulls no punches to find the culprit. DS Lisbon and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor pursue on a heart-thumping ride through the steamy tropics of Northern Australia as they hunt for a killer out of control.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, KILL SHOT has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative new character to follow.
August 8, 2021
Excellent police procedural set in Queensland. Central character and his partner develop into good team in an interesting missing person hunt that turns into a murder.
December 11, 2020
Wow, what a book!
I was already a big fan of Blair Denholm’s writing from his two books ‘Sold’ and ‘Sold to the Devil’ which are amazing stories. I really enjoyed the lead into this new character, Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon with the short story ‘Fighting Dirty’ which is well worth a read. Jack Lisbon has a great dry sense of humour, and he’s one tough cop that’s not easily pushed around. I always love a story where I can’t guess the ending. I hope to see more of Jack in the future.
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon had finally landed on his feet after leaving England under a cloud. Now in Australia he had cleaned his act up, so much so that he had been promoted in Brisbane and now found himself working at the Yorkville CIB. It was just a hell of a lot hotter in this part of the world compared with London. Yorkville wasn’t generally known for its violent crime, however that was all about to change for Jack and his partner Detective Constable Claudia Taylor, when one of the towns residents suddenly goes missing and they are certain that something awful had happened to him. If you enjoy Thrillers, then you will love this book. Well worth the 5/5 Star Rating.
Verified Purchase - Amazon Australia
I was already a big fan of Blair Denholm’s writing from his two books ‘Sold’ and ‘Sold to the Devil’ which are amazing stories. I really enjoyed the lead into this new character, Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon with the short story ‘Fighting Dirty’ which is well worth a read. Jack Lisbon has a great dry sense of humour, and he’s one tough cop that’s not easily pushed around. I always love a story where I can’t guess the ending. I hope to see more of Jack in the future.
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon had finally landed on his feet after leaving England under a cloud. Now in Australia he had cleaned his act up, so much so that he had been promoted in Brisbane and now found himself working at the Yorkville CIB. It was just a hell of a lot hotter in this part of the world compared with London. Yorkville wasn’t generally known for its violent crime, however that was all about to change for Jack and his partner Detective Constable Claudia Taylor, when one of the towns residents suddenly goes missing and they are certain that something awful had happened to him. If you enjoy Thrillers, then you will love this book. Well worth the 5/5 Star Rating.
Verified Purchase - Amazon Australia
December 24, 2020
"Right on target"
A promising start to the series, with Jack Lisbon delivering his individual brand of justice in Yorktown instead of his home town London. Lisbon is a complicated character, but his colleague Claudia Taylor is the perfect foil. The settings are hot, humid, and exotic. The action electric, and brutal. You wouldn't expect Lisbon to pull any punches, and nor does the author as he delivers a tough, no-holds-barred thriller that augurs well for the future. I'm looking forward to the next case for Lisbon & Taylor already.
A promising start to the series, with Jack Lisbon delivering his individual brand of justice in Yorktown instead of his home town London. Lisbon is a complicated character, but his colleague Claudia Taylor is the perfect foil. The settings are hot, humid, and exotic. The action electric, and brutal. You wouldn't expect Lisbon to pull any punches, and nor does the author as he delivers a tough, no-holds-barred thriller that augurs well for the future. I'm looking forward to the next case for Lisbon & Taylor already.
December 11, 2020
The book opens with your first visual and visceral glimpse into the leading character, a deeply troubled police officer, Jack Lisbon. After an early morning phone call, we come to an empty, idling car that leads DS Lisbon on an investigation to find its owner. That investigation takes us from murky waters, to elite gyms and magnificent mansions. We meet a parade of suspects, friends and foes and dive deep into the dodgy world of illegal performance enhancing drugs.
The peppering of unnecessary descriptive words and sesquipedalian speech can be a little disruptive to the flow of the story, but the strong plot keeps everything moving forward. Unfortunately, the main character, Jack Lisbon, is an unlikeable one. Besides his obvious love for his daughter and the care shown for other children, “‘You’re a softy when it comes to kids, aren’t you DS Lisbon?’” he has no other redeemable qualities and you never root for him. His partner, DC Claudia Taylor is likeable enough but comes across as a bit weak save a few occasions where she shows she has some cognitive wit but then again stumbles when she willingly allows her partner to violate the law and personal rights. Their characters are reminiscent of TV crime show duo Miller and Hardy. Maybe like the latter, Taylor and Lisbon’s characters will progress across this series into more palatable personalities.
But as the story is so engaging, you don’t really get hung up on literary or character development concerns because you truly want to see how it all plays out. It’s imperative to point out that this book, unlike so many of its genre, never gave anything away too far in advance. Until the author wants you to know, you really don’t know “who done it." This is far from a slow burn and it kept my interest through the weekend it took me to finish.
Despite my minute criticisms I would overwhelmingly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good crime fiction, thriller, who-done-it or the like. Though the author has several books under his belt, this was my first venture into the literary mind of Blair Denholm and I look forward to reading more of his works in this series as well as his others.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The peppering of unnecessary descriptive words and sesquipedalian speech can be a little disruptive to the flow of the story, but the strong plot keeps everything moving forward. Unfortunately, the main character, Jack Lisbon, is an unlikeable one. Besides his obvious love for his daughter and the care shown for other children, “‘You’re a softy when it comes to kids, aren’t you DS Lisbon?’” he has no other redeemable qualities and you never root for him. His partner, DC Claudia Taylor is likeable enough but comes across as a bit weak save a few occasions where she shows she has some cognitive wit but then again stumbles when she willingly allows her partner to violate the law and personal rights. Their characters are reminiscent of TV crime show duo Miller and Hardy. Maybe like the latter, Taylor and Lisbon’s characters will progress across this series into more palatable personalities.
But as the story is so engaging, you don’t really get hung up on literary or character development concerns because you truly want to see how it all plays out. It’s imperative to point out that this book, unlike so many of its genre, never gave anything away too far in advance. Until the author wants you to know, you really don’t know “who done it." This is far from a slow burn and it kept my interest through the weekend it took me to finish.
Despite my minute criticisms I would overwhelmingly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good crime fiction, thriller, who-done-it or the like. Though the author has several books under his belt, this was my first venture into the literary mind of Blair Denholm and I look forward to reading more of his works in this series as well as his others.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 8, 2021
Jack Lisbon is a detective, newly moved from London to Northern Australia. He's still adjusting to many things when a car is found with blood on the seat and in the trunk.. He and his partner are looking for the missing driver when a body is found near the water. It escalates from there. Another missing person, run-away media and plenty of suspects who are boxers. i.e. in shape physically. I enjoyed this thriller by an author I haven't read before with a protagonist that I like. I'll be a fan of this series.
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June 18, 2021This is fine Australian crime fiction. It's short, sweet, straight to the point and doesn't waste any breath getting there. Delightful characters, an intriguing crime, and a very satisfying conclusion make for a bonzer novel. A top book. I read it in one sitting. Unputdownable!
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January 6, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/6/2021)! 🎁
July 7, 2021
This is a good police procedure for readers who love hardcore detectives. Jack is a flawed man who is making some inroads at keeping his temper under control and his drinking nonexistent. I found him a bit hard to like. He'd done illegal stuff in England as a policeman and was under a cloud so hightailed it to Australia. He's relentless in his investigative pursuit and doesn't hesitate to inflict some physical damage to get at the truth. And he sometimes makes a rookie mistake. The investigation isn't so much outwitting the culprit as it is just dogged work and hoping for a break, which happens.
The novel takes place in Australia so there are some terms hard for us American readers to understand, such as rego for a motorbike registration. The plot will appeal to readers who enjoy events like boxing and cage fighting. Many of the characters involved are trainers or fighters or gym owners.
This is a novel for readers who don't mind foul language and would enjoy a flawed hero working hard to keep himself in line as he relentlessly pursues a murderer.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The novel takes place in Australia so there are some terms hard for us American readers to understand, such as rego for a motorbike registration. The plot will appeal to readers who enjoy events like boxing and cage fighting. Many of the characters involved are trainers or fighters or gym owners.
This is a novel for readers who don't mind foul language and would enjoy a flawed hero working hard to keep himself in line as he relentlessly pursues a murderer.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
May 20, 2024
DNF @ 30%
This book was lame to me 🤷🏻♀️ I couldn’t have possibly cared less about anyone or anything that was happening at 30% so I just couldn’t see continuing. The writing is so droning about stupid stuff and the MC is just awful. And the book isn’t long enough for there to be enough character growth for me to care 💁🏻♀️ plus, the "mystery" wasn’t even intriguing 😂 I just genuinely couldn’t connect with anything in this 😬
This book was lame to me 🤷🏻♀️ I couldn’t have possibly cared less about anyone or anything that was happening at 30% so I just couldn’t see continuing. The writing is so droning about stupid stuff and the MC is just awful. And the book isn’t long enough for there to be enough character growth for me to care 💁🏻♀️ plus, the "mystery" wasn’t even intriguing 😂 I just genuinely couldn’t connect with anything in this 😬
May 7, 2025
Well thought police case
Lots of twist and turns with different suspects. The action suspense and suspects add to the story line to keep you guessing until the end.
Lots of twist and turns with different suspects. The action suspense and suspects add to the story line to keep you guessing until the end.
January 28, 2023
Australian police figure out that an abandoned car had more to it than first presumed - 4.5 stars
This story has a lot to do with professional fighting - especially Mixed Martial Arts - and has many episodes of violence. Trainers, coaches, and fighters all came together in the only gym in town in the northern end of Queensland, AU. Fighters, especially MMA fighters, use various drugs to get an edge in the vicious business.
Detective Sargent (DS) Jack Lisbon was called out to investigate an abandoned automobile at the edge of the local rainforest.
Detective Constable (DC) Claudia Taylor as Jack's partner noticed dark stains in the messy car. There was no sign of the man who was registered as the car's owner. Several days later, a fisherman reported seeing a saltwater crocodile munching on a body.
As the investigation proceeded, the initial identification turned out to be wrong. The car's owner was still missing and the badly abused body was identified. The body was not that of the car's owner. As the tedious investigation proceeded, frequenters of the local gym seemed to be the only people who knew the missing man or the dead one. While foul play was not evident initially, the coroner found evidence of blunt force injury. She noted that the deceased had been wearing a ring that was no longer on his still-intact hand.
Lisbon and Taylor interviewed friends and family of the two men. They got less than full cooperation and many embellishments of the facts. At the same time, the local television news media started stoking the threat of attacks by crocodiles and inept police.
Other than the lack of a second body, there was very little to go on until a thorough investigation of the victim's home found a cache of drugs. Other leads involving money and volatile personalities built tension but seemed to be of minor importance.
Up until the end, there were more suspicions than facts; "MMA personalities" seemed adequate to explain bad behavior.
One excellent scene at the local jail had a lawyer out of her comfort zone trying to keep her client quiet. Another memorable scene had a drug dealer whose odor preceded him even after had a five-minute clean-up. Every one of Jack's trips to bring in someone for questioning involved both verbal abuse and a portion of violent threats and with a side of proof of willingness to follow through.
At the end, we visit yet another part of Northern Queensland in the hot, muggy climate. This was not a travelogue; it was tough guys and the law doing what you would expect adversaries to do. Well done.
This story has a lot to do with professional fighting - especially Mixed Martial Arts - and has many episodes of violence. Trainers, coaches, and fighters all came together in the only gym in town in the northern end of Queensland, AU. Fighters, especially MMA fighters, use various drugs to get an edge in the vicious business.
Detective Sargent (DS) Jack Lisbon was called out to investigate an abandoned automobile at the edge of the local rainforest.
Detective Constable (DC) Claudia Taylor as Jack's partner noticed dark stains in the messy car. There was no sign of the man who was registered as the car's owner. Several days later, a fisherman reported seeing a saltwater crocodile munching on a body.
As the investigation proceeded, the initial identification turned out to be wrong. The car's owner was still missing and the badly abused body was identified. The body was not that of the car's owner. As the tedious investigation proceeded, frequenters of the local gym seemed to be the only people who knew the missing man or the dead one. While foul play was not evident initially, the coroner found evidence of blunt force injury. She noted that the deceased had been wearing a ring that was no longer on his still-intact hand.
Lisbon and Taylor interviewed friends and family of the two men. They got less than full cooperation and many embellishments of the facts. At the same time, the local television news media started stoking the threat of attacks by crocodiles and inept police.
Other than the lack of a second body, there was very little to go on until a thorough investigation of the victim's home found a cache of drugs. Other leads involving money and volatile personalities built tension but seemed to be of minor importance.
Up until the end, there were more suspicions than facts; "MMA personalities" seemed adequate to explain bad behavior.
One excellent scene at the local jail had a lawyer out of her comfort zone trying to keep her client quiet. Another memorable scene had a drug dealer whose odor preceded him even after had a five-minute clean-up. Every one of Jack's trips to bring in someone for questioning involved both verbal abuse and a portion of violent threats and with a side of proof of willingness to follow through.
At the end, we visit yet another part of Northern Queensland in the hot, muggy climate. This was not a travelogue; it was tough guys and the law doing what you would expect adversaries to do. Well done.
May 16, 2022
This exciting start of a new series is a page-turner that hooked me early and kept me engrossed. Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon, an ex-boxer turned cop, left his birthplace, London, several years ago, under less than desirable circumstances, headed for Australia. As a beat cop, he tried to clean up his act, manage his temper, and quit drinking and smoking. He earned a promotion, which sent him from Brisbane to the near-tropical northern Australian city of Yorkville. The normally quiet town is shocked by several new developments: a local resident goes missing, a car is discovered empty, motor still running, with blood stains, and a body that had been mauled by an alligator is found tangled in mangrove roots. However, these items weren’t necessarily connected, leading Jack and his partner, Detective Constable Claudia Taylor on a frustrating trail full of twists and turns that takes them into the MMA fighting circuit. Jack is back in his element, with all its competition among fighters and coaches, drug addiction, and criminal activity. Jack has a history of using his own methods of getting information and handling suspects. The police are having a hard time making progress on these cases, so the press and the public are hounding them to catch the culprit(s). Can Claudia keep Jack calm and following proper decorum?
Mr. Denholm is adept at creating strong characters, vivid descriptions and an intriguing story line that make the reader a part of the action. He slowly builds tension that keeps the reader trying to solve the case. Some readers might be put off by some of the gritty language and activities, but I found it appropriate to the scenario – people really do talk and act like that. I believe it helped me to have read the prequel story for background, but the books in this series are great as stand-alone stories. I am thoroughly enjoying this series and highly recommend it.
Mr. Denholm is adept at creating strong characters, vivid descriptions and an intriguing story line that make the reader a part of the action. He slowly builds tension that keeps the reader trying to solve the case. Some readers might be put off by some of the gritty language and activities, but I found it appropriate to the scenario – people really do talk and act like that. I believe it helped me to have read the prequel story for background, but the books in this series are great as stand-alone stories. I am thoroughly enjoying this series and highly recommend it.
July 12, 2021
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
A step out of my comfort zone, but a very welcome one!
Jack is from London, but has relocated clear across the globe after *something* happened. He and his partner are now tasked with finding out where the missing MMA fighter is, and who killed the trainer.
Jack is. . .interesting! He's not a perfect detective, not by any means, but I think, in his own way, his heart is in the right place. In JACK's right place, you know? Lots of hints and clues and titbits abotu what happened in London to send him running to Australia, but I didn't get the FULL picture, not really. And I really really want it! I think, this might be the only reason that I didn't give it 5 stars, was because I wasn't putting the clues and hints together well enough.
Oh, wait, no. there was another point I want to make. Claudia, Jack's partner, gets a chapter. Just the one. And I wanted more of her, or none of her. that one chapter had my hopes up of a dual point of view, and it's not, not really. One chapter is a tease! So in future books, can we have MORE Claudia, please??
The case of the MMA fighter and missing trainer is well laid out, and I wasn't sure which way it was gonna go til the end, so I was fully engaged and kept on my toes. Thoroughly kept on my toes, if I'm honest and that's a rare thing these days!
This is a step out of my comfort zone, I tend to mostly stick to romance of some description, so the blurb most have grabbed something at me for me to request it. I have not a clue what that was, but I'm very pleased it did.
I'd like to follow Jack and Claudia, they are good together!
4 good solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
A step out of my comfort zone, but a very welcome one!
Jack is from London, but has relocated clear across the globe after *something* happened. He and his partner are now tasked with finding out where the missing MMA fighter is, and who killed the trainer.
Jack is. . .interesting! He's not a perfect detective, not by any means, but I think, in his own way, his heart is in the right place. In JACK's right place, you know? Lots of hints and clues and titbits abotu what happened in London to send him running to Australia, but I didn't get the FULL picture, not really. And I really really want it! I think, this might be the only reason that I didn't give it 5 stars, was because I wasn't putting the clues and hints together well enough.
Oh, wait, no. there was another point I want to make. Claudia, Jack's partner, gets a chapter. Just the one. And I wanted more of her, or none of her. that one chapter had my hopes up of a dual point of view, and it's not, not really. One chapter is a tease! So in future books, can we have MORE Claudia, please??
The case of the MMA fighter and missing trainer is well laid out, and I wasn't sure which way it was gonna go til the end, so I was fully engaged and kept on my toes. Thoroughly kept on my toes, if I'm honest and that's a rare thing these days!
This is a step out of my comfort zone, I tend to mostly stick to romance of some description, so the blurb most have grabbed something at me for me to request it. I have not a clue what that was, but I'm very pleased it did.
I'd like to follow Jack and Claudia, they are good together!
4 good solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
December 9, 2020
The fighting community of Yorkville have their own secrets, some so powerful that punches are thrown to ensure permanent silence. Blair Denholm's "Kill Shot" captivated my attention from chapter one. Denholm's art of presenting his words painted vivid images and deported me to Northern Australia. His manner of conveying this intricate plot has a unique rhythm. DS Jack Lisbon is a well-crafted character. The author is successful in creating a balance between making progress with the plot with distinct supporting characters along with Lisbon's inner musings while alluding to the environment. Lisbon's banter with Detective Claudia Taylor is memorable and touches base on a dynamic partnership. There are some surprising twists and turns along the way, one which I couldn't even imagine which made this read a sheer delight. I struggled to keep this book down. I look forward to reading more of Denholm's work. A 4.5 star read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and this honest review is left voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, and this honest review is left voluntarily.
February 13, 2021
I received an advance review copy of Kill Shot and leave this review of my own accord.
When I read Fighting Dirty I truly disliked Jack. I understood him but would have crossed the street to avoid him. But we wind up on the same side of the fence so many times. And the author brings Jack to the table slowly, allowing us to see what brings him to his stand on life. You know this guy is going to fall off the wagon. You expect him to. What I didnt expect was to find myself cheering every time he makes the hard choice.
This author crafts words in a unique way. Well written, not at a low level but also not so esoteric as to lose any part of his audience, and the audience is wide. The author clearly draws not just the scenes but also the emotions. You get sucked into the heads of all the characters. Be it Louise Harlow, Cladia or Jack makes no difference. We hear from Jack but see the world through his eyes and they see much.
Read this. You won't regret it.
When I read Fighting Dirty I truly disliked Jack. I understood him but would have crossed the street to avoid him. But we wind up on the same side of the fence so many times. And the author brings Jack to the table slowly, allowing us to see what brings him to his stand on life. You know this guy is going to fall off the wagon. You expect him to. What I didnt expect was to find myself cheering every time he makes the hard choice.
This author crafts words in a unique way. Well written, not at a low level but also not so esoteric as to lose any part of his audience, and the audience is wide. The author clearly draws not just the scenes but also the emotions. You get sucked into the heads of all the characters. Be it Louise Harlow, Cladia or Jack makes no difference. We hear from Jack but see the world through his eyes and they see much.
Read this. You won't regret it.
January 19, 2023
This one had so many possible suspects and twists and turns that I think I got whiplash trying to follow along! These stories just pull you in and hold you hostage until the end. I couldn't put it down. It's fast paced action and drama that kept me on the edge of my seat . Some of Jack's unorthodox methods had me lmao and smh. I'd love to meet Jack irl, because he's such a complex character with many interesting layers. This story kept my interest until the last word. Jack was so close to getting the truth, and then he's thwarted, but he lives to tell the tale. The ending was bittersweet. I need more of Jack.
August 14, 2024
Not necessarily for me but might be for you (more below)
I am someone that typically reads mystery’s, fantasy , horror, some romance but this book has caught me off guard.
Maybe it’s the fact it is based in Australia and the wording is different, or I’m not used to a MMC that complains this much 😅
This is not your average book IMO but I did finish it and it didn’t end up on my DNF list. Im even thinking of reading the next one just to see if the 2 main detectives ever get together. I have a feeling the next couple of books might also touch on his background and where he came from more.
Try to be optimistic when you read it, don’t let this deter you from reading it, I’m just being honest from my POV.
I am someone that typically reads mystery’s, fantasy , horror, some romance but this book has caught me off guard.
Maybe it’s the fact it is based in Australia and the wording is different, or I’m not used to a MMC that complains this much 😅
This is not your average book IMO but I did finish it and it didn’t end up on my DNF list. Im even thinking of reading the next one just to see if the 2 main detectives ever get together. I have a feeling the next couple of books might also touch on his background and where he came from more.
Try to be optimistic when you read it, don’t let this deter you from reading it, I’m just being honest from my POV.
December 30, 2020
Jack Lisbon returns for another skull-splitting edge of your seat thriller in Blair Denholm’s Kill Shot! Lisbon must head to the more swampy northern regions of Australia where a mangled body is discovered. There, Lisbon ends up in another fight for the truth as a killer appears to target the professional fighter community. It was fun to see Lisbon fully in his element as this one hits close to home for him, having once been a boxer himself. Denholm always manages to surprise in the ways he always manages to surprise me in this series! Head spinning twists and gritty crisp dialogue make Kill Shot a must read for the gruff mystery thriller crowd out there!
February 19, 2021
The story was decent, moved fairly well, but not the energy of my favorites like harry bosch, Amos decker, john wick, Alex cross, jack reacher. Grammar errors weren't too numerous. No dangling peices of plot thrown in, that's good. Situations were nicely fleshed out like budget constraints for the police.
I was uncomfortable with the level of integrity of the main character. His mean streak flaw was also an issue for me. Both seemed unnecessary and detracted from a clear win in the end. Overreach of police is a clear and dangerous issue. This book almost promotes it through Jack.
I was uncomfortable with the level of integrity of the main character. His mean streak flaw was also an issue for me. Both seemed unnecessary and detracted from a clear win in the end. Overreach of police is a clear and dangerous issue. This book almost promotes it through Jack.
January 12, 2021
Action packed!
The main character, Lisbon, is developing and has got his act together in Oz.
The story features boxing, drugs and ego, with a side helping of greed!
The detectives work the case but cannot find a decent lead, until some video footage is revealed, then the pieces fall into place.
An explosive standoff with the culprits lead to a brush with death for one of the detectives.
Great start to an intriguing detective series!
The main character, Lisbon, is developing and has got his act together in Oz.
The story features boxing, drugs and ego, with a side helping of greed!
The detectives work the case but cannot find a decent lead, until some video footage is revealed, then the pieces fall into place.
An explosive standoff with the culprits lead to a brush with death for one of the detectives.
Great start to an intriguing detective series!
January 20, 2023
Kill Shot: An Australian Crime Thriller (The Fighting Detective Book 1), my fifth read from author Blair Denholm, Outstanding, entertaining police/detective fiction set in Australia, well-written with characters & a plot you can buy into with unexpected twists & turns. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." So good I went out & purchased a copy. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
August 11, 2021
Excellent reading
Have just read and enjoyed this book lmmensely. It was good to see that the leading character jack had settled in his new job . His new case a test of his abilities. I enjoyed reading this book the plot of the story well written and the other characters adding to the story worth investing your money and hopefully you will enjoy it too.
Have just read and enjoyed this book lmmensely. It was good to see that the leading character jack had settled in his new job . His new case a test of his abilities. I enjoyed reading this book the plot of the story well written and the other characters adding to the story worth investing your money and hopefully you will enjoy it too.
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