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Angel & Kincade #3
Forsaken: An Angel & Kincade Mystery
There's no hiding from a killer with nothing left to lose.When DI Max Angel and DS Catalina Kincade are called to a hijacked lorry recently arrived from Romania, the carnage they find inside suggests its destination was a slaughterhouse, not a warehouse. Amid the bloodbath of the mobile execution chamber, the discovery of a woman's hairs on a blanket makes it clear cheap refrigerators weren't the only goods the butchered driver was transporting. After his human cargo is set free by the killers, Angel and his team find themselves caught up in a race to save the escaped girl before the people traffickers catch her and condemn her to a life of sexual slavery.
It's a cruel twist of fate Angel doesn't need as he struggles to come to terms with his wife's death, killed when another Romanian lorry driver fell asleep at the wheel and ploughed into their car. Now, Angel finds himself fighting his own superiors as they question his ability to get on with the job, to keep his personal demons at bay.
As the body count rises in the ruthless gang's wake, Angel is drawn to an old, forgotten case - the tragic suicide of another young woman trafficked across Europe into a life of unrelenting misery. And if things weren't tortuous enough, the murdered driver's brother - a detective from the Romanian police - turns up to offer an unofficial hand. The question is, whose side is he on?
Forsaken is the third book in the new Angel & Kincade series of crime thrillers from USA Today bestselling author, James Harper, a gripping, twisty adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
It's a cruel twist of fate Angel doesn't need as he struggles to come to terms with his wife's death, killed when another Romanian lorry driver fell asleep at the wheel and ploughed into their car. Now, Angel finds himself fighting his own superiors as they question his ability to get on with the job, to keep his personal demons at bay.
As the body count rises in the ruthless gang's wake, Angel is drawn to an old, forgotten case - the tragic suicide of another young woman trafficked across Europe into a life of unrelenting misery. And if things weren't tortuous enough, the murdered driver's brother - a detective from the Romanian police - turns up to offer an unofficial hand. The question is, whose side is he on?
Forsaken is the third book in the new Angel & Kincade series of crime thrillers from USA Today bestselling author, James Harper, a gripping, twisty adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
- GenresThriller
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2024
102 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
James Harper
197 books94 followersLibrarian Note:
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name.
There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
This profile may contain books from multiple authors of this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 8, 2024
An excellent series
Kindle Unlimited
As always, James Harper brings us an intense British police procedural with likeable characters and colorful backgrounds. This is the third in this series. We lost James Harper recently, and he will be greatly missed in my household. I hope someone who knew him well will pick up the banner and finish his run for him as has been successfully done for some of my other favorite authors in the US like Robert B. Parker and Tony Hillerman.
In Forsaken, we are heavily invested in the Romanian sex slave trade as it affects England, with deeper insight into how it affects the women and girls kidnapped and transported to the UK. And the British Police Officers who were exposed to it. An eye-opener, and also a very good read. I was not aware of the various widespread forms of assistance available to these victims and was pleased to look into my own community and find such assistance available. At less than a hundred miles to the border, it's nice to know there are folks on the lookout and willing to assist. This is a world problem and should be addressed as such. I am pleased to recommend this work to friends and family. You can't go wrong with James Harper.
REVIEWED on November 7, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N or Kobo.
Kindle Unlimited
As always, James Harper brings us an intense British police procedural with likeable characters and colorful backgrounds. This is the third in this series. We lost James Harper recently, and he will be greatly missed in my household. I hope someone who knew him well will pick up the banner and finish his run for him as has been successfully done for some of my other favorite authors in the US like Robert B. Parker and Tony Hillerman.
In Forsaken, we are heavily invested in the Romanian sex slave trade as it affects England, with deeper insight into how it affects the women and girls kidnapped and transported to the UK. And the British Police Officers who were exposed to it. An eye-opener, and also a very good read. I was not aware of the various widespread forms of assistance available to these victims and was pleased to look into my own community and find such assistance available. At less than a hundred miles to the border, it's nice to know there are folks on the lookout and willing to assist. This is a world problem and should be addressed as such. I am pleased to recommend this work to friends and family. You can't go wrong with James Harper.
REVIEWED on November 7, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, and BookBub. Not available for review on B&N or Kobo.
June 28, 2025
It all starts with a hijacked lorry arriving from Romania and the death of the driver. But what was he carrying and why was he killed.
An interesting modern mystery
An interesting modern mystery
August 4, 2024
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Angel and Kincade being called to a scene where a lorry driver has been brutally killed. Upon inspection, they believe that there was an individual who was also being taken from Romania who escaped. The team then began a search for the missing girl as well as looking into who was responsible for the killing. The girl wound up running and eventually hid out in a person's barn. This person on discovering her, began assisting her which included cutting a tracking monitor from the girl's ankle. The individuals who had placed her in the truck began searching and used the tracking locator to follow her path. As a result, the person who helped her was killed.
Another killing happened later and was as brutal as the initial one where the lorry driver was murdered. Angel and Kincade believed that the two brutal killings were related while the other one was done by someone else. Eventually the girl was located and provided information. One of the people helping with talking to the girl created suspicion as the interview progressed.
To discover who the lorry killer was, who killed the person that helped the girl, what obstacles someone put as the investigation progressed and how it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book. You won't be disappointed!
The story begins with Angel and Kincade being called to a scene where a lorry driver has been brutally killed. Upon inspection, they believe that there was an individual who was also being taken from Romania who escaped. The team then began a search for the missing girl as well as looking into who was responsible for the killing. The girl wound up running and eventually hid out in a person's barn. This person on discovering her, began assisting her which included cutting a tracking monitor from the girl's ankle. The individuals who had placed her in the truck began searching and used the tracking locator to follow her path. As a result, the person who helped her was killed.
Another killing happened later and was as brutal as the initial one where the lorry driver was murdered. Angel and Kincade believed that the two brutal killings were related while the other one was done by someone else. Eventually the girl was located and provided information. One of the people helping with talking to the girl created suspicion as the interview progressed.
To discover who the lorry killer was, who killed the person that helped the girl, what obstacles someone put as the investigation progressed and how it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book. You won't be disappointed!
July 23, 2024
A book you really want to read, if you enjoy a story with murder and mayhem, edge of your seat moments and trying to work out who the killer is then this book is for you. Thank goodness it was the weekend when I started reading it, couldn't put it down.
This is the third book in the Angel and Kincade series and I hope there will be many more. James Harper always uses subject matter that is current and closer to home than we would like. His attention to detail is evident in his writing and descriptions.
What if your daughter/ girlfriend was abducted for trafficking, what would you do to get her back, rely on someone else or do it yourself? Angel and Kincaid refuse to drop a case until it is solved even though they might need to do a bit of ducking and diving with the powers that be. There is always a bit of humour to get us through the tough bits. A good storyline and interesting characters.
This is the third book in the Angel and Kincade series and I hope there will be many more. James Harper always uses subject matter that is current and closer to home than we would like. His attention to detail is evident in his writing and descriptions.
What if your daughter/ girlfriend was abducted for trafficking, what would you do to get her back, rely on someone else or do it yourself? Angel and Kincaid refuse to drop a case until it is solved even though they might need to do a bit of ducking and diving with the powers that be. There is always a bit of humour to get us through the tough bits. A good storyline and interesting characters.
August 3, 2024
Another addictive read covering a stomach churning topic with a gruesome murder as an opener. Once again the murder squad 'gang' have to deal with evil, barbaric actions that make me glad that I enjoy a mundane life. Hatred, love and revenge, not to mention criminal deviousness, all muddy the waters to confuse the reader who thinks they're following the plot making the twists and turns leading to the ending all the more enjoyable.
The author has an ability to get you hooked on the regular characters making you want to become a fly on the wall of their personal lives 'outside the office'. I can't wait to see more sparks fly between Kincade and her estranged husband not to mention Angel's parents.
It always amazes me that for such a small island we almost subconsciously divide ourselves according to our region and social class becoming defensive about them but it results in some really enjoyable office 'patter'.
I was given an ARC copy but the views are my own.
The author has an ability to get you hooked on the regular characters making you want to become a fly on the wall of their personal lives 'outside the office'. I can't wait to see more sparks fly between Kincade and her estranged husband not to mention Angel's parents.
It always amazes me that for such a small island we almost subconsciously divide ourselves according to our region and social class becoming defensive about them but it results in some really enjoyable office 'patter'.
I was given an ARC copy but the views are my own.
August 2, 2024
Once again James Harper leaves us breathless and begging for the next book!! I am loving the new characters of Angel and Kincade. The author gives us a few more secrets about them and what makes them tick but they both continue to hang onto their secrets. This book delves into the devastating impact that human trafficking and prostitution has. Although on the gritty side it lets the reader look in on this sordid world and the effects it has on the women who are dragged into. As always he skillfully takes us on the journey to find the murder(s) with Angel and Kincade and all the other characters that are growing on us. I like that Kincade has moved in with Angel's dad and look forward to how this will develop.
I received an ARC of this book to review and I voluntarily leave this honest opinion of Forsaken.
I received an ARC of this book to review and I voluntarily leave this honest opinion of Forsaken.
August 5, 2024
This the third book of the Angel & Kincaid series is in my view the best so far. Harper has really done a good job of integrating the lives of the main characters into the book without distracting us from the main storyline. I find myself eagerly awaiting the next book to find out how their lives progress.
The topic of the main story was the underworld of people trafficking and how it destroys lives to the point revenge is torturous and bloody. The clues are all there to help you unravel the case and I appreciate it wasn't too complicated to follow. I feel sometimes an author will add a few too many twists and turns until you end up totally lost, Harper is not guilty of this in this book.
An all round great book worth every one of 5 stars.
The topic of the main story was the underworld of people trafficking and how it destroys lives to the point revenge is torturous and bloody. The clues are all there to help you unravel the case and I appreciate it wasn't too complicated to follow. I feel sometimes an author will add a few too many twists and turns until you end up totally lost, Harper is not guilty of this in this book.
An all round great book worth every one of 5 stars.
August 4, 2024
Along with writing an excellent murder mystery, Mr. Harper is adept at developing the interpersonal relationships between Angel and Kincade, as well as with their boss and fellow detectives. It is interesting to see how they’ve built friendships and can anticipate each other’s reactions as the investigations unfold. They are presented as real people, with personal problems that can get in the way, and they have some lighter moments to ease the tension, too. This case is filled with many twists and turns that kept me guessing right up to the end. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series and am eager to read more.
August 13, 2024
Note: If you find violence disturbing, please note that this book contains numerous graphic descriptions of extreme violence associated with human trafficking.
Well, it's good. What else can I say? Mr. Harper writes a great mystery, and he does it with characters that draw you in and a story that keeps you guessing. However, this is not a cheerful story with a happy ending. It's violent and tragic; and although the guilty suffer in the end, so do the victims.
Harper handles a tough subject skillfully, but I'm leaving this one with a scar. It isn't a social statement. But it should be.
Well, it's good. What else can I say? Mr. Harper writes a great mystery, and he does it with characters that draw you in and a story that keeps you guessing. However, this is not a cheerful story with a happy ending. It's violent and tragic; and although the guilty suffer in the end, so do the victims.
Harper handles a tough subject skillfully, but I'm leaving this one with a scar. It isn't a social statement. But it should be.
August 2, 2024
The Padre and Kincade have to put their "big person pants" on this time.
They, and the team, dive into the underbelly of a most grievous crime and the crimes that are the real roots of evil.
The "team" is seen in a different light in this book. The start revealing thier soft underbellies too. Relating and sharing to higher lev we levels.
Confessions of the criminals and of the "team" bring new lights to hidden stoies and feelings.
This a book pulls no punches and gets sullied in the process.
They, and the team, dive into the underbelly of a most grievous crime and the crimes that are the real roots of evil.
The "team" is seen in a different light in this book. The start revealing thier soft underbellies too. Relating and sharing to higher lev we levels.
Confessions of the criminals and of the "team" bring new lights to hidden stoies and feelings.
This a book pulls no punches and gets sullied in the process.
September 9, 2024
Another good story from James Harper. I do tend to get a bit lost at times with all the characters in his books but the storylines are good so I keep going anyway.
The plot in this book is violent and bloody but I think it's a subject where that is expected and wouldn't be realistic if that side of it was glossed over.
Thankfully the Harper humour is still there, which does put a smile on my face.
I'm enjoying the continue character and relationship development.
I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review.
The plot in this book is violent and bloody but I think it's a subject where that is expected and wouldn't be realistic if that side of it was glossed over.
Thankfully the Harper humour is still there, which does put a smile on my face.
I'm enjoying the continue character and relationship development.
I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review.
August 14, 2025
Brilliant!
I love this series. The stories are thrilling, keep me turning the pages and losing sleep.
James has some great characters and their back stories are being dropped into each book, making me keen to know more.
Some developments with Kincade will be great to follow, not sure how they will develop. Jardine's family situation is resolving. But Angel (Angle to the press), has a twist, after his mother (Siobhan) takes delivery of a parcel for him. Interesting, I can't wait for the next book!
I love this series. The stories are thrilling, keep me turning the pages and losing sleep.
James has some great characters and their back stories are being dropped into each book, making me keen to know more.
Some developments with Kincade will be great to follow, not sure how they will develop. Jardine's family situation is resolving. But Angel (Angle to the press), has a twist, after his mother (Siobhan) takes delivery of a parcel for him. Interesting, I can't wait for the next book!
August 2, 2024
The book opens with a heinous crime & a runaway. The plot is complex with many players. There’s multiple pieces to the puzzle involving earlier crimes too; all slot together finally to reveal why revenge is taken. The story arc of the two main characters, DI Angel & DS Kincade is woven in amidst the murder investigations.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author & I am writing a voluntary, honest review
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author & I am writing a voluntary, honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
I've always enjoyed James Harper's books and this new series, set in England, gets better with each book. Forsaken deals with human trafficking and revenge. The storyline is gripping and fast paced, and the character development flows evenly. A great read that I highly recommend to crime mystery lovers.
August 5, 2024
A fantastic read, realistic plot and fantastic characters.
This is yet another great read from James Harper with a story full of humour between the principal characters. This humour is offset by the sadness of how in these modern times people are treated as chattels and a means to profit by some.
I cannot wait for more books by this author, who has become one of my all time favourites.
This is yet another great read from James Harper with a story full of humour between the principal characters. This humour is offset by the sadness of how in these modern times people are treated as chattels and a means to profit by some.
I cannot wait for more books by this author, who has become one of my all time favourites.
August 6, 2024
Another great mystery read with the development of threads for further engagement of the great central characters in these tales.
This mystery touches on people trafficking and the associated involvement of the criminals and law authorities. A twisted tale of murder, fear, revenge and the justice both lawful and unlawful.
This mystery touches on people trafficking and the associated involvement of the criminals and law authorities. A twisted tale of murder, fear, revenge and the justice both lawful and unlawful.
October 26, 2024
Forsaken is the third book in the new Angel & Kincade series of crime thrillers from USA Today bestselling author James Harper.
What or who has been forsaken is realized and it was written as as a result of some evil perceived !
Kudos for all
Will want to keep turning those pages as more bodies pile up!
What or who has been forsaken is realized and it was written as as a result of some evil perceived !
Kudos for all
Will want to keep turning those pages as more bodies pile up!
July 14, 2024
I thought it was a good suspense, action packed story. Has a gripping plot and good characters in it, The suspense will keep you turning pages to find out why
it happened . A good series, that is well written., that I recommend
it happened . A good series, that is well written., that I recommend
August 1, 2024
Angel and Kincade are called to the scene of a truck driver that was tortured before being killed. A young girl with an ankle tracker on escapes and is on the run. They need to find her before the traffickers do. An exciting novel with a lot of action.
August 2, 2024
An all too current plot about man’s inhumanity to man. The story is also threaded with the personal situations of the officers and their families, and rife with their humorous and sometimes cynical commentaries on their lives.
August 5, 2024
Never disappointed
As always I await the new book being released. I followed Evan and now I’m following this pair. Everything about the book and the characters is fantastic as always. I strongly recommend reading this book, I loved every page.
As always I await the new book being released. I followed Evan and now I’m following this pair. Everything about the book and the characters is fantastic as always. I strongly recommend reading this book, I loved every page.
August 6, 2024
How would you feel if you were being trafficked? Could you kill? Would you feel guilt? You will question yourself as this outstanding story unfolds. This story has made an incredible impact on my soul. I have no answers and that's frightening. Superbly written and Highly Recommended.
August 12, 2024
Loved the situations set in motion by the events. Had a few laughs at the interactions, especially those between the two detective constables. An excellent twisty mystery which will have you the reader guessing.
November 24, 2024
intense great read
Read the series in order for a better understanding of the characters. Lots of suspense
And lots of mystery. He brings up issues in todays world that many fear to do. Teach your children to be aware and not be the next casualty.
Read the series in order for a better understanding of the characters. Lots of suspense
And lots of mystery. He brings up issues in todays world that many fear to do. Teach your children to be aware and not be the next casualty.
July 27, 2024
Angel and Kincade find themselves in the middle of a string of murders stemming from the sex trafficking trade. Lots of mystery and intrigue. Well worth the read!
August 2, 2024
Another excellent story. Love this duo hope to read lots more of them.
August 4, 2024
Interesting story. Quite enjoyed this book. I think was my favorite out of the 3. Entangled with traffickers, murders and personal problems. Keeps you guessing which is always good!
August 7, 2024
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat, with it many twist and turns.James has certainly come up with another great read, next book please.
September 8, 2024
A great read!
This book was enjoyable from the beginning to the last page! Easy to read style with wit, excitement and an infectious storyline
This book was enjoyable from the beginning to the last page! Easy to read style with wit, excitement and an infectious storyline
October 31, 2024
Keep going and had me hooked from the start. Really gritty and hard to put down. An Angel and Kincaid story can't wait to read the follow up. We have clues to finish and want the story to continue.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews