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Robert Hoon Thrillers #5
Stateside
Viva Las Vengeance
All Bob Hoon ever wanted was a good whisky, and some peace and quiet.
But, when Hoon hears that his friend and MI5 agent, Miles Crabtree, has gone missing in the United States, he is dragged back into action once more.
The hunt leads him to the Florida Everglades, and into conflict with the violent locals, the terrifying wildlife, and a Sheriff with a sinister agenda of his own.
Carving a trail of destruction across America, Hoon crosses swords with a washed-out, Elvis-themed P.I. who might be his only chance of not only saving his friend, but of foiling a twisted conspiracy that could lead to the deaths of millions.
From the Highlands of Scotland, through the steamy dive bars of Florida, to the dazzling neon nightmare of Vegas, Hoon’s quest for justice will expose the rotten underbelly of the American Dream.
And he might just cause a major international incident along the way.
Stateside is the fifth book in the Robert Hoon Thrillers series by internationally bestselling author, JD Kirk. If you ever thought Jack Reacher should be Scottish and swear more often, this is the series for you!
All Bob Hoon ever wanted was a good whisky, and some peace and quiet.
But, when Hoon hears that his friend and MI5 agent, Miles Crabtree, has gone missing in the United States, he is dragged back into action once more.
The hunt leads him to the Florida Everglades, and into conflict with the violent locals, the terrifying wildlife, and a Sheriff with a sinister agenda of his own.
Carving a trail of destruction across America, Hoon crosses swords with a washed-out, Elvis-themed P.I. who might be his only chance of not only saving his friend, but of foiling a twisted conspiracy that could lead to the deaths of millions.
From the Highlands of Scotland, through the steamy dive bars of Florida, to the dazzling neon nightmare of Vegas, Hoon’s quest for justice will expose the rotten underbelly of the American Dream.
And he might just cause a major international incident along the way.
Stateside is the fifth book in the Robert Hoon Thrillers series by internationally bestselling author, JD Kirk. If you ever thought Jack Reacher should be Scottish and swear more often, this is the series for you!
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2024
944 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Kirk
59 books1,762 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
September 17, 2024
I am actually a little depressed about this book. I have enjoyed every book Barry J Hutchinson (aka JD Kirk) has written. This book, though entertaining, is filled with enough vitriol and xenophobia disguised as humor to almost be nausea inducing.
I understand the author is unhappy his adult son stepped in front of traffic as he failed to do the standard look both directions before crossing the street. He has somehow made his son’s poor life decision and the subsequent cost of medical care into a personal vendetta against the US. I’m just sad he used an amazing character like Bob Hoon instead of being happy with the ranting he already did in his newsletter. He’s taken a loathsome character that was redeemed by this spinoff series and made him a mirror image of the author’s own prejudices. Hey, but don’t worry he presents it as humor so it’s fine.
The audacity of Bob Hoon, or the author, to say/write how offensive any Scottish stereotype is in the midst of a book that is 90% intentionally crafted offensive stereotypes about America is so ridiculous and socially blind it’s moved beyond the absurd and right into the realm of open and unrestrained prejudice.
I cannot express my disappointment enough that the author wrote this book but then went further and self published it. I’ve personally always admired Scotland and its people. Sadly, I’m left wondering if they’re all just Englishmen living on an island with delusions of grandeur, or if it’s just one angry Englishmen living amongst Scots. Oh, and literally nobody thinks Scottish people are referred to as Scotch, that isn’t a thing.
I understand the author is unhappy his adult son stepped in front of traffic as he failed to do the standard look both directions before crossing the street. He has somehow made his son’s poor life decision and the subsequent cost of medical care into a personal vendetta against the US. I’m just sad he used an amazing character like Bob Hoon instead of being happy with the ranting he already did in his newsletter. He’s taken a loathsome character that was redeemed by this spinoff series and made him a mirror image of the author’s own prejudices. Hey, but don’t worry he presents it as humor so it’s fine.
The audacity of Bob Hoon, or the author, to say/write how offensive any Scottish stereotype is in the midst of a book that is 90% intentionally crafted offensive stereotypes about America is so ridiculous and socially blind it’s moved beyond the absurd and right into the realm of open and unrestrained prejudice.
I cannot express my disappointment enough that the author wrote this book but then went further and self published it. I’ve personally always admired Scotland and its people. Sadly, I’m left wondering if they’re all just Englishmen living on an island with delusions of grandeur, or if it’s just one angry Englishmen living amongst Scots. Oh, and literally nobody thinks Scottish people are referred to as Scotch, that isn’t a thing.
November 14, 2024
Bad Boy Shocker! Villain's Own Goal Shocks Hero! "Well, there I was, holding all the cards while gambling for the win. When suddenly, Hoon introduces the image I fear most. Now, I'm looking for my next gig. What's a bad guy gotta do to get a promotion around here." - Victor - Hell's Gazette.
Another enjoyable outing with the foul-mouthed Robert 'Boggle,' Hoon, with his trusty one-eyed sidekick Iris, and the scene-stealing'Elvis,' P.I. Alvin, as they once again go up against the malignant 'Loop,' and their dastardly operatives.
Recommended, 5 'Love me Tender,' stars.
Another enjoyable outing with the foul-mouthed Robert 'Boggle,' Hoon, with his trusty one-eyed sidekick Iris, and the scene-stealing'Elvis,' P.I. Alvin, as they once again go up against the malignant 'Loop,' and their dastardly operatives.
Recommended, 5 'Love me Tender,' stars.
July 11, 2024
It hurts to rate a JD Kirk book so low, but I personally found it so below par in comparison to all his other books. The plot line was so over the top and ridiculous I found myself rolling my eyes at times. The stereotypes were also a bit too stereotypical for me, almost every American character was basically a caricature.
Stateside is the only one of his books I’ve looked forward to finishing so I could read something else, so disappointed!
Fingers crossed the next Logan book is better than this.
Stateside is the only one of his books I’ve looked forward to finishing so I could read something else, so disappointed!
Fingers crossed the next Logan book is better than this.
July 13, 2024
**SPOILERS **
So, I’ve thought long and hard how to review this book. As a huge fan of all the Logan books, the Filson book and Hoon’s previous books I couldn’t wait to read this 5th outing for Bob. However, I just didn’t enjoy it at all. It started ok where Bob was in Florida but went downhill from there. The story quickly developed into a complete parody and the characters were all caricatures and not very likeable at all. I know Hoon is foul mouthed but the swearing was way too much. Every other word was f**** In context it’s not too bad but it was as though JDK was on a mission to surpass his blaspheming. The constant references to Iris’s glass eye became really uncomfortable. The twice that Tyler was mentioned were irrelevant and added nothing to the story. The level of violence throughout the book was unpleasant and then the scenes in the basement at the casino were absolutely horrendous and difficult to read (and imagine). I think Horror would be a more fitting genre than Fiction/Thriller. The wrap up with Miles Crabtree was so unbelievable. I really struggled to read and finish this book and, unlike JDK’s other books, I would never read this again.
So, I’ve thought long and hard how to review this book. As a huge fan of all the Logan books, the Filson book and Hoon’s previous books I couldn’t wait to read this 5th outing for Bob. However, I just didn’t enjoy it at all. It started ok where Bob was in Florida but went downhill from there. The story quickly developed into a complete parody and the characters were all caricatures and not very likeable at all. I know Hoon is foul mouthed but the swearing was way too much. Every other word was f**** In context it’s not too bad but it was as though JDK was on a mission to surpass his blaspheming. The constant references to Iris’s glass eye became really uncomfortable. The twice that Tyler was mentioned were irrelevant and added nothing to the story. The level of violence throughout the book was unpleasant and then the scenes in the basement at the casino were absolutely horrendous and difficult to read (and imagine). I think Horror would be a more fitting genre than Fiction/Thriller. The wrap up with Miles Crabtree was so unbelievable. I really struggled to read and finish this book and, unlike JDK’s other books, I would never read this again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2024
Stateside by J D Kirk is book 5 in the Robert Hoon thriller series and is as explosive, ridiculous and as entertaining as the previous four books in the series.
This time Hoon and Iris have been let loose in Florida and then Las Vegas, with an escort and an Elvis impersonator for company.
The whole storyline and characters are absolutely ridiculous and silly but are entertaining.
Recommended reading and listening.
November 5, 2024
Loved it. Welcome back Hoon!
July 17, 2024
Hoonbelievable !
A stretch too far plotwise. Just unbelievable - while I have time for imaginative plot lines this went too far . Times when I wanted a wee Glasgow Guy to appear and say “Did ye ? Aye “
A stretch too far plotwise. Just unbelievable - while I have time for imaginative plot lines this went too far . Times when I wanted a wee Glasgow Guy to appear and say “Did ye ? Aye “
July 6, 2024
Generally, I love this author but this series is too violent for me.
July 13, 2024
When book 4 of the Robert Hoon Series ended it was indicated that Hoon stories were at an end. Then he started making appearances again in the DCI Logan series, and then this volume was announced! This is the 48th volume I have read by Kirk in just over 2 years under the three names he publishes under. Kirk publishes under various names. He publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. And he is over 200 volumes across the three names and many others that are unattributed. But back to this volume.
The description of this volume is:
“Viva Las Vengeance
All Bob Hoon ever wanted was a good whisky, and some peace and quiet.
But, when Hoon hears that his friend and MI5 agent, Miles Crabtree, has gone missing in the United States, he is dragged back into action once more.
The hunt leads him to the Florida Everglades, and into conflict with the violent locals, the terrifying wildlife, and a Sheriff with a sinister agenda of his own.
Carving a trail of destruction across America, Hoon crosses swords with a washed-out, Elvis-themed P.I. who might be his only chance of not only saving his friend, but of foiling a twisted conspiracy that could lead to the deaths of millions.
From the Highlands of Scotland, through the steamy dive bars of Florida, to the dazzling neon nightmare of Vegas, Hoon’s quest for justice will expose the rotten underbelly of the American Dream.”
It has been a year and a half since we last had a stand alone Robert Hoon novel, and though his appearances in the DCI Logan and DI Heather Filson series are always entertaining. But I picture J.D. KirK with Hoon always hammering away at the back of his skull looking for a way out in another story. And my oh my what a story.
The story begins with Hoon being woken up by a toddler relieving himself all over Hoon and his room. But the why of twin toddlers being in Hoons house and even his sister living with him in another story. When the one that got away appears at his door with concern for a mutual acquaintance at first Hoon plans to do nothing about it at all! But after a conversation with Iris he is soon off on a new adventure.
““I mean, he’s not in. I thought that was obvious,” the receptionist replied. “You asked if he was in. I said no. Where’s the confusion?”
“Fuck sake. Your name’s no’ fucking Moira by any chance, is it?”
“That language is unacceptable, sir. Please refrain from using it.”
“Oh, you think that language is unacceptable? I haven’t fucking started, ya crusty fucking wasp-minged—””
The cast of characters is surprising in this one. An Elvis impersonator who is a PI and has a history with the Loop. A good cop, bad cops, alligators, a special forces guy who recognizes Hoon from deployments. And a really sinister bad guy or I should say gal! And let’s not forget a few bombs, a young girl a stray Hoon is trying to rescue. And a Mexican drug cartel.
I picked this up the day it released but because of a busy week at home and an insane week on call at work I did not get to it for over a week. But once I started I could hardly put it down. And it was well worth the wait. Now a reminder Hoon is always over the top, the language extreme, the violence epic. And like Deadpool just a sheer drive to get the job done by maximum effort! Again I want to warn readers that this story is violent, bloody, brutal and full of language. It is not for all readers. That being said it is an excellent thriller with a lot of action. It is another great story in an excellent series. I am looking forward to reading more of the Logan and hopefully Hoon novels and books from Kirk’s other pen names. It is a great read for fans of Reacher, Bourne, and Trent or anyone who loves great action flicks or books. It is an excellent Scottish thriller!
Join Hoon on this journey from Scotland, to Florida, to the everglades, to Vegas, and a final showdown on the California Mexican border.
The description of this volume is:
“Viva Las Vengeance
All Bob Hoon ever wanted was a good whisky, and some peace and quiet.
But, when Hoon hears that his friend and MI5 agent, Miles Crabtree, has gone missing in the United States, he is dragged back into action once more.
The hunt leads him to the Florida Everglades, and into conflict with the violent locals, the terrifying wildlife, and a Sheriff with a sinister agenda of his own.
Carving a trail of destruction across America, Hoon crosses swords with a washed-out, Elvis-themed P.I. who might be his only chance of not only saving his friend, but of foiling a twisted conspiracy that could lead to the deaths of millions.
From the Highlands of Scotland, through the steamy dive bars of Florida, to the dazzling neon nightmare of Vegas, Hoon’s quest for justice will expose the rotten underbelly of the American Dream.”
It has been a year and a half since we last had a stand alone Robert Hoon novel, and though his appearances in the DCI Logan and DI Heather Filson series are always entertaining. But I picture J.D. KirK with Hoon always hammering away at the back of his skull looking for a way out in another story. And my oh my what a story.
The story begins with Hoon being woken up by a toddler relieving himself all over Hoon and his room. But the why of twin toddlers being in Hoons house and even his sister living with him in another story. When the one that got away appears at his door with concern for a mutual acquaintance at first Hoon plans to do nothing about it at all! But after a conversation with Iris he is soon off on a new adventure.
““I mean, he’s not in. I thought that was obvious,” the receptionist replied. “You asked if he was in. I said no. Where’s the confusion?”
“Fuck sake. Your name’s no’ fucking Moira by any chance, is it?”
“That language is unacceptable, sir. Please refrain from using it.”
“Oh, you think that language is unacceptable? I haven’t fucking started, ya crusty fucking wasp-minged—””
The cast of characters is surprising in this one. An Elvis impersonator who is a PI and has a history with the Loop. A good cop, bad cops, alligators, a special forces guy who recognizes Hoon from deployments. And a really sinister bad guy or I should say gal! And let’s not forget a few bombs, a young girl a stray Hoon is trying to rescue. And a Mexican drug cartel.
I picked this up the day it released but because of a busy week at home and an insane week on call at work I did not get to it for over a week. But once I started I could hardly put it down. And it was well worth the wait. Now a reminder Hoon is always over the top, the language extreme, the violence epic. And like Deadpool just a sheer drive to get the job done by maximum effort! Again I want to warn readers that this story is violent, bloody, brutal and full of language. It is not for all readers. That being said it is an excellent thriller with a lot of action. It is another great story in an excellent series. I am looking forward to reading more of the Logan and hopefully Hoon novels and books from Kirk’s other pen names. It is a great read for fans of Reacher, Bourne, and Trent or anyone who loves great action flicks or books. It is an excellent Scottish thriller!
Join Hoon on this journey from Scotland, to Florida, to the everglades, to Vegas, and a final showdown on the California Mexican border.
July 14, 2024
I enjoyed the book but I’d say it was my least favorite of all the 3 series in the Logan-verse. I’ve struggled to pinpoint what I found to be so lackluster in the novel and the only thing I could come up with less action? (but not really.) Less Hoonisms? Probably not. The portrayal of Americans wasn’t inaccurate but more stereotypical (but stereotypes are stereotypes because they’re based or rooted in fact.) The only thing that truly stands out has nothing to do with the story but Angus’ American voices. He, like every non-American voice actor I listen to on audiobooks have a southern twinge to every single character, whether southern or not.
I loved Iris in this book and pretty much any book he shows up in. If Kirk is ever lacking for a story to write, Iris' back story would make for a great read.
Should Kirk decide to give us another Hoon installment, I'd be happy. I'll give this one a reread soon just to see is being in the middle of a move had affected my enjoyment of the book...which it probably did.
I loved Iris in this book and pretty much any book he shows up in. If Kirk is ever lacking for a story to write, Iris' back story would make for a great read.
Should Kirk decide to give us another Hoon installment, I'd be happy. I'll give this one a reread soon just to see is being in the middle of a move had affected my enjoyment of the book...which it probably did.
July 4, 2024
hilarious
I’ve read all the Jack Logan and previous Hoon books all made me laugh but this so funny .wouldn’t recommend it to my American friends though lol
Having lived in Florida and visited Las Vegas this of course is a p take of all rednecks but once again Hoon shows his strengths and his compassion for waifs and
strays and of course Iris is just the funniest , definitely recommend but need to read his earlier stories first
I’ve read all the Jack Logan and previous Hoon books all made me laugh but this so funny .wouldn’t recommend it to my American friends though lol
Having lived in Florida and visited Las Vegas this of course is a p take of all rednecks but once again Hoon shows his strengths and his compassion for waifs and
strays and of course Iris is just the funniest , definitely recommend but need to read his earlier stories first
September 24, 2024
Ridiculously Entertaining
I love Hoon in all his foul mouthed glory.
This is the 5th Hoon spin off from the DCI Logan series, and yes it’s ridiculous, yes it’s like James Bond on drugs and far less polished.
It’s unbelievable, but it’s brilliantly entertaining. I had a few laugh out loud moments, and it’s an easy read.
I hope there is more to come from Hoon and his motley crew. Iris is a brilliant character and I’m glad he got some more character development.
I love Hoon in all his foul mouthed glory.
This is the 5th Hoon spin off from the DCI Logan series, and yes it’s ridiculous, yes it’s like James Bond on drugs and far less polished.
It’s unbelievable, but it’s brilliantly entertaining. I had a few laugh out loud moments, and it’s an easy read.
I hope there is more to come from Hoon and his motley crew. Iris is a brilliant character and I’m glad he got some more character development.
July 5, 2024
Bob's friend Miles Crabtree has gone missing in Florida so Bob being Bob goes over to search for him. As always Hoon's exploits with the help of Iris and a couple of others don't disappoint and its a madcap journey while trying to find Miles.
Loved the book and hope there will be another one soon 5 stars
Loved the book and hope there will be another one soon 5 stars
September 7, 2024
I really like this character - and laughed aloud when he hit Florida and the heat/humidity. Winning the war against the croc/gator (I can't remember which it was) was a bit unlikely but fun none the less. Looking forward to more Hoon books.
December 22, 2024
This felt like a fever dream 😂😂
July 13, 2024
Fun Read
Have read all the Hoon books always fun, a page turner only takes. Few days as it’s hard to put down
Have read all the Hoon books always fun, a page turner only takes. Few days as it’s hard to put down
September 17, 2024
Wow….. just Wow! How you can blend those ingredients and have an amazing book. Barry you outdid yourself. Totally silly but equally brilliant. Bob Hoon is my spirit animal.
February 18, 2025
The book was good. I felt the ending was a little bit rushed, though it was written well.
There was a chance to add a greater plot to the story - potentially having miles ACTUALLY involved with the 'drug deal' or even just adding more insight into why and how he was there.
All in all, still a good book!
There was a chance to add a greater plot to the story - potentially having miles ACTUALLY involved with the 'drug deal' or even just adding more insight into why and how he was there.
All in all, still a good book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2024
Back in the 1950's I was a young child enjoying reading the Dennis The Menace Christmas Annual. One story had me laughing so much I nearly wet my trousers. I've laughed lots since then, but never quite as much as that day years ago.
Until, that is, I read "Stateside." From page one it provides an hilarious sequence of events, with Bob Hoon encountering a number of incredible characters as he tries to find his friend Crabtree. The action comes thick and fast, until, towards the end of the book, the action becomes intense.
Highly recommended. unless you dislike all the swearing. Come on though, Hoon is Scottish.
Until, that is, I read "Stateside." From page one it provides an hilarious sequence of events, with Bob Hoon encountering a number of incredible characters as he tries to find his friend Crabtree. The action comes thick and fast, until, towards the end of the book, the action becomes intense.
Highly recommended. unless you dislike all the swearing. Come on though, Hoon is Scottish.
October 30, 2024
Worst ever book from JD Kirk
Idiotic plot, too many "f" words. Swearing...++++
Couldn't follow this bizarre story.
Really poor. I've read every book from this normally fine author, but totally disappointed.
Returned after battling through 140 pages.
Idiotic plot, too many "f" words. Swearing...++++
Couldn't follow this bizarre story.
Really poor. I've read every book from this normally fine author, but totally disappointed.
Returned after battling through 140 pages.
November 12, 2024
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ funny, rude and action packed wild adventure!!!
This is the fifth book in the Hoon series and while the other four help set the scene you can pick this up as a standalone easy as…there are some references you wont understand if you read it that way but all in all it wont matter.
Fair warning if this is your first Hoon/J.D. Kirk book then you might like to just beware of the swearing, the Die Hard level of action, unrealistic nature of the books and the fact that these are Scottish. None of those things are a problem… unless they are a problem for you. Also this book does a fair bit of shitting on parts of the USA so if you aren’t up for anything like that then I reckon stay away… places like Florida and Vegas beware… if you have a sense of humour and you are happy to poke fun at stupid things and wild ass behaviour.. then you might like this… so long as you can handle copious amounts of the F word.
With all that said… none of that bothers me, I am not American, I can swear like a sailor (Aussie here) and I have a sense of humour. So for me this was an auto order on KU. I didn’t read it straight away cause I am always paranoid that this will be the book I hate of this series but… it wasn’t. So all is well for me.
Hoon is as raucous as ever and he’s totally over the top and violent to boot. I really like that these books don’t pretend to be anything other than an action movie (with every bell and whistle and bomb) in a book. You will find most stupid Action Man hero thing in these books and its wild. Also I love the humour. I always find myself laughing out loud in these books… late into the night giggling away trying not to wake up my husband while he sleeps.
There isn’t much else to say really… Hoon goes Stateside and chaos ensues … the end!!!
I am pleased that there was another one in the series and I am super pleased J.D Kirk won an award for this one cause its about time!!! These books are here to entertain period… they will not be for everyone but I love a good laugh and I love ridiculous action movie violence… what else could a girl ask for 🤣
This is the fifth book in the Hoon series and while the other four help set the scene you can pick this up as a standalone easy as…there are some references you wont understand if you read it that way but all in all it wont matter.
Fair warning if this is your first Hoon/J.D. Kirk book then you might like to just beware of the swearing, the Die Hard level of action, unrealistic nature of the books and the fact that these are Scottish. None of those things are a problem… unless they are a problem for you. Also this book does a fair bit of shitting on parts of the USA so if you aren’t up for anything like that then I reckon stay away… places like Florida and Vegas beware… if you have a sense of humour and you are happy to poke fun at stupid things and wild ass behaviour.. then you might like this… so long as you can handle copious amounts of the F word.
With all that said… none of that bothers me, I am not American, I can swear like a sailor (Aussie here) and I have a sense of humour. So for me this was an auto order on KU. I didn’t read it straight away cause I am always paranoid that this will be the book I hate of this series but… it wasn’t. So all is well for me.
Hoon is as raucous as ever and he’s totally over the top and violent to boot. I really like that these books don’t pretend to be anything other than an action movie (with every bell and whistle and bomb) in a book. You will find most stupid Action Man hero thing in these books and its wild. Also I love the humour. I always find myself laughing out loud in these books… late into the night giggling away trying not to wake up my husband while he sleeps.
There isn’t much else to say really… Hoon goes Stateside and chaos ensues … the end!!!
I am pleased that there was another one in the series and I am super pleased J.D Kirk won an award for this one cause its about time!!! These books are here to entertain period… they will not be for everyone but I love a good laugh and I love ridiculous action movie violence… what else could a girl ask for 🤣
September 9, 2024
★★★★
Bob Hoon is undeniably in desperate need of time away from home—Boy Band’s toddler twins are quite the handful. With some debt to settle, Bob finds himself deep in the Florida swamp. Not exactly a vacation… As he makes his way west, leaving a trail of destruction behind him, it becomes clear that covert operations are not his strength. Unexpectedly, an old friend joins the fray—someone the TSA would no doubt have a field day with—offering his expertise in various situations. In true Hoon fashion, he experiences all that America has to offer, eventually landing in the most quintessentially American setting: Las Vegas. But trust me, this is not your typical Vegas…
Bob always makes me smile! His frequent monologues, wondering if this will finally be the time he dies, are priceless—when he first asked himself that question, I could not stop laughing!
The friends he makes along the way are such unique characters, I would love to see spin-offs for each of them! Although this was not my favorite Hoon adventure, it was still a wild and thoroughly entertaining ride.
🎧 Angus King did a phenomenal job! He always does, but this time he tackled a cast of the most random accents, and he delivered brilliantly!
Bob Hoon is undeniably in desperate need of time away from home—Boy Band’s toddler twins are quite the handful. With some debt to settle, Bob finds himself deep in the Florida swamp. Not exactly a vacation… As he makes his way west, leaving a trail of destruction behind him, it becomes clear that covert operations are not his strength. Unexpectedly, an old friend joins the fray—someone the TSA would no doubt have a field day with—offering his expertise in various situations. In true Hoon fashion, he experiences all that America has to offer, eventually landing in the most quintessentially American setting: Las Vegas. But trust me, this is not your typical Vegas…
Bob always makes me smile! His frequent monologues, wondering if this will finally be the time he dies, are priceless—when he first asked himself that question, I could not stop laughing!
The friends he makes along the way are such unique characters, I would love to see spin-offs for each of them! Although this was not my favorite Hoon adventure, it was still a wild and thoroughly entertaining ride.
🎧 Angus King did a phenomenal job! He always does, but this time he tackled a cast of the most random accents, and he delivered brilliantly!
January 19, 2025
For those that hail from Dundee you might want to swerve this one as Hoon has a fair dig at your sunny city 😀😀
This is my final book I have read them all now and feel somewhat bereft. Which is my favourite I don’t know but I have loved Hoon and all his quirks. He has no filter and a mouth which comes out with some brilliant expletives!
Set in the States The author presses so many buttons about Americans and their inability to identify Scotland as different from England which somewhat tweaks Hoon’s tail!
As a Scot who has visited the States I can relate to these observations 🤣😀😀
The plot rolls on regarding The Loop and Hoon”s ability to get out of some crazy situations is beyond belief but the good guy wins. Shouldn’t he always?
Thanks to the author for giving me endless hours of enjoyment from these fast paced thrillers with pretty unbelievable plots and characters who are larger than life.
Would love to spend an hour in the authors head or even in person because he has a sharp sense of humour beyond any other author I have read.
Thank you for the belly laughs at 2am in the morning when I was unable to sleep
Pure dead brilliant big man!! (Nabbed that one from
Glasgow which is a bit rich as I hail from the East Coast!😀😀)
This is my final book I have read them all now and feel somewhat bereft. Which is my favourite I don’t know but I have loved Hoon and all his quirks. He has no filter and a mouth which comes out with some brilliant expletives!
Set in the States The author presses so many buttons about Americans and their inability to identify Scotland as different from England which somewhat tweaks Hoon’s tail!
As a Scot who has visited the States I can relate to these observations 🤣😀😀
The plot rolls on regarding The Loop and Hoon”s ability to get out of some crazy situations is beyond belief but the good guy wins. Shouldn’t he always?
Thanks to the author for giving me endless hours of enjoyment from these fast paced thrillers with pretty unbelievable plots and characters who are larger than life.
Would love to spend an hour in the authors head or even in person because he has a sharp sense of humour beyond any other author I have read.
Thank you for the belly laughs at 2am in the morning when I was unable to sleep
Pure dead brilliant big man!! (Nabbed that one from
Glasgow which is a bit rich as I hail from the East Coast!😀😀)
July 13, 2024
Stateside -
The 5th book in the Hoon series. I have read all of these, along with the Logan series. Hoon is up to his old tricks, getting into trouble at every corner as he tries to find MI5 Miles Carabtree in the US. Teamed up with a PI, Alvin ‘Elvis’ King, along with a few others he gets into one scrape after another, which almost gets him killed on more than one occasion . Like all the Logan and Hoon books, it is full of humour and in some areas very poignant moments. If you have read any of the Hoon series, you will expect a lot of Fing and Jeffing from the big man. The plot was all about finding Mile, and the scrapes that Hoon and team got in doing so. Okay, the plot is a little weak and far fetched, but so what! Like all the others in the series, I really enjoyed the book, was laughing out loud on numerous occasions and was flipping the pages and reading quicker to find out what was going to happen next. 5 out of 5 from me and I look forward to book 6. (I think the next Logan book comes out soon - hopefully.)
The 5th book in the Hoon series. I have read all of these, along with the Logan series. Hoon is up to his old tricks, getting into trouble at every corner as he tries to find MI5 Miles Carabtree in the US. Teamed up with a PI, Alvin ‘Elvis’ King, along with a few others he gets into one scrape after another, which almost gets him killed on more than one occasion . Like all the Logan and Hoon books, it is full of humour and in some areas very poignant moments. If you have read any of the Hoon series, you will expect a lot of Fing and Jeffing from the big man. The plot was all about finding Mile, and the scrapes that Hoon and team got in doing so. Okay, the plot is a little weak and far fetched, but so what! Like all the others in the series, I really enjoyed the book, was laughing out loud on numerous occasions and was flipping the pages and reading quicker to find out what was going to happen next. 5 out of 5 from me and I look forward to book 6. (I think the next Logan book comes out soon - hopefully.)
July 15, 2024
Outrageous mix of gritty crime drama and dark humour
"Stateside" by J.D. Kirk is a rollicking, no-holds-barred thrill ride that follows the unorthodox adventures of Bob Hoon, a 60+ year-old former disgraced Detective Superintendent from the Scottish police force. Alongside his motley crew of oddball friends, including a rogue MI5 agent, Hoon dives headfirst into the dark world of drug trafficking and human slavery. The book is an outrageous mix of gritty crime drama and dark humour, filled with explosive action and colourful characters that leap off the page.
Fans of this series will appreciate the unapologetically absurd plot and the sharp, irreverent wit that J.D. Kirk weaves throughout the story. If you enjoy crime thrillers that don't take themselves too seriously, with protagonists who are as rough around the edges as they come, then Bob Hoon's escapades are sure to delight. In short, if you're looking for a crime thriller that's equal parts gritty and hilarious, with a protagonist who breaks all the moulds, "Stateside" is a good read
"Stateside" by J.D. Kirk is a rollicking, no-holds-barred thrill ride that follows the unorthodox adventures of Bob Hoon, a 60+ year-old former disgraced Detective Superintendent from the Scottish police force. Alongside his motley crew of oddball friends, including a rogue MI5 agent, Hoon dives headfirst into the dark world of drug trafficking and human slavery. The book is an outrageous mix of gritty crime drama and dark humour, filled with explosive action and colourful characters that leap off the page.
Fans of this series will appreciate the unapologetically absurd plot and the sharp, irreverent wit that J.D. Kirk weaves throughout the story. If you enjoy crime thrillers that don't take themselves too seriously, with protagonists who are as rough around the edges as they come, then Bob Hoon's escapades are sure to delight. In short, if you're looking for a crime thriller that's equal parts gritty and hilarious, with a protagonist who breaks all the moulds, "Stateside" is a good read
December 11, 2025
Well...
I can't say I'm overjoyed with this one as far as JD's books go. It felt a little farfetched for me. I know the Hoon books have all been very out there and quite bizarre, but this one just seemed to try and take every part of the story and make it as unlikely as possible.
I still had some good laughs with Hoon, Iris, and of course Alvin (Elvis) but I didn't find myself speed reading the book, or being overly excited to see what happened next. I just read it, which is RARE with this author.
I did love Hoon showing his softer side and taking care of everybody in this book, and for once not trying to hide that he was doing so. I also appreciated that he knew he wasn't invincible and tried to make plans for once.
It was by no means a bad book, but it's probably my last favourite in the Logan universe for me. If there is another Hoon book in the future, I just hope it sticks to the UK.
6/10.
I can't say I'm overjoyed with this one as far as JD's books go. It felt a little farfetched for me. I know the Hoon books have all been very out there and quite bizarre, but this one just seemed to try and take every part of the story and make it as unlikely as possible.
I still had some good laughs with Hoon, Iris, and of course Alvin (Elvis) but I didn't find myself speed reading the book, or being overly excited to see what happened next. I just read it, which is RARE with this author.
I did love Hoon showing his softer side and taking care of everybody in this book, and for once not trying to hide that he was doing so. I also appreciated that he knew he wasn't invincible and tried to make plans for once.
It was by no means a bad book, but it's probably my last favourite in the Logan universe for me. If there is another Hoon book in the future, I just hope it sticks to the UK.
6/10.
July 16, 2024
Gonzo Hoon. I love Kirk's books. I love the first 4 Hoon books. I agree with much of the other neutral to negative reviews posted here. The willing suspension of disbelief factor here was off the charts. Of course, it's not supposed to be "believable" but some elements of it should be. I get it was satircal and allegorical regarding Vegas, drug companies, Florida, etc. But to me this was just a bunch of caricatures thrown together into a "plot" that was obtuse at best. I give it 3 stars for the scenes with the usual typical crazy humor (prior to scenes of extreme violence) the Hoon books are known for- for instance the first scene when Bob wakes up in bed with the baby sitting on his chest. I've often wondered how Kirk can put out 4-5 books a year and not have them appear slapdash. This time he failed.
September 9, 2024
As an American I should be insulted or at least embarrassed by the latest Bob Hoon thriller set in the USA. Kirk hits on every American stereotype, including Elvis impersonators, hookers, pimps, gangsters, Southern hicks and police. But it is too darned funny to be insulted over it. As usual, the book is action-packed from the start, unrealistic, outrageous, full of quirky characters and hilarious. Hoon's collection of misfits somehow pull together to take on a major drug dealer and cartels. Wow.
I think that J.D. Kirk writes these books for his own amusement and this one is maybe his effort to get back at the USA over his recent problems here. Regardless, I enjoyed every book in the series and having Angus King narrator them is like icing on the cake. Read it!
I think that J.D. Kirk writes these books for his own amusement and this one is maybe his effort to get back at the USA over his recent problems here. Regardless, I enjoyed every book in the series and having Angus King narrator them is like icing on the cake. Read it!
July 6, 2024
Pure brilliance.
I am so glad the foul mouthed, despicable, rude but truly brilliant Hoon is back. This book is my favourite by far. The supporting characters gelled so well and the plot ran fast. I was laughing hard in places, then holding my breath in the next thinking Bob had gone too far and was never going to survive.
The sheer brilliance of this author's writing is difficult to articulate. He certainly never lets us readers down. This was a full blown rush of excitement from the first page to the last. I just hope Bob Hoon's next adventure isn't too far off. Bravo JD, this is certainly a job very well done.
I am so glad the foul mouthed, despicable, rude but truly brilliant Hoon is back. This book is my favourite by far. The supporting characters gelled so well and the plot ran fast. I was laughing hard in places, then holding my breath in the next thinking Bob had gone too far and was never going to survive.
The sheer brilliance of this author's writing is difficult to articulate. He certainly never lets us readers down. This was a full blown rush of excitement from the first page to the last. I just hope Bob Hoon's next adventure isn't too far off. Bravo JD, this is certainly a job very well done.
July 6, 2024
This book is gonna set your soul, gonna set your soul on fire
If there's one thing that Hoon doesn't need is another loop member to beat, in the ghetto
Hoon is his usual self, ain't nothing but a hoondog, swearing all the time
I hope there's another Christmas special because it'll be lonely this Christmas without a Hoon to hold
I feel like this book with be Always on my mind
Hoon struggles to fight a devil in disguise
My only criticism would be a little less conversation a little more action please
Now Hoon has left me, and I'm looking for a place to dwell, I'll scroll down this Amazon page and read some DCI Jack Logan
If there's one thing that Hoon doesn't need is another loop member to beat, in the ghetto
Hoon is his usual self, ain't nothing but a hoondog, swearing all the time
I hope there's another Christmas special because it'll be lonely this Christmas without a Hoon to hold
I feel like this book with be Always on my mind
Hoon struggles to fight a devil in disguise
My only criticism would be a little less conversation a little more action please
Now Hoon has left me, and I'm looking for a place to dwell, I'll scroll down this Amazon page and read some DCI Jack Logan
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