Double Takedown

by Kevin G. Chapman

What if everything you thought you knew was wrong?The glittering lights of Broadway are just a cover for the dark secrets hidden behind the curtains. NYPD homicide detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson are about to find out how many layers one story can have in their latest case. As they prepare to testify in a high-profile murder trial, they begin to question if they got it wrong. The Broadway director claims evidence was planted to frame him and that Mike and Jason developed tunnel vision. If they did, can they live with themselves, knowing that an innocent man might be convicted . . . and that someone else got away with the perfect crime?

With orders to stay away from the closed case, Mike and Jason are plagued by doubts and can't let it go. When new evidence leads to even more questions, the detectives race to put the pieces together and uncover the whole truth. But their unauthorized investigation could lead to catastrophic collateral damage, could cost them their badges, and the director may still be guilty.

For fans of intense crime thrillers and complex characters, Double Takedown is a must-read.

Genres: Mystery

345 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2024

About the author

In 2025, I will be publishing my 10th novel, Treacherous Hack, book #7 in my Mike Stoneman series.

My 2023 stand-alone novel, The Other Murder, won the GRAND PRIZE CLUE award as the best suspense/thriller of 2023 (Chanticleer International Book Awards)! The Other Murder is about a high-profile murder and the media frenzy it creates, and the other murder that nobody cares about. When two journalists team up to investigate the two murders, nothing is as it seems, and the most dangerous thing . . . is the truth.

Be sure to also check out another stand-alone novel titled Dead Winner, where the quest for a $60 million dollar winning lottery ticket turns deadly. Dead Winner was named the BEST POLICE PROCEDURAL OF THE YEAR and Blue Ribbon winner of the CLUE Award.

Also new is a short story titled The Car, the Dog & the Girl, which is available FREE from Kevin's website and from Amazon and other ebook retailers.

And, of course, look for my 7-book Mike Stoneman series has garnered wonderful reviews and critical acclaim, including:

Book #4 -- Fatal Infraction, was the WINNER of the CLUE Award as best police procedural of 2021 and is a Semi-Finalist for the 2022 Kindle Book Award

Book #3, Lethal Voyage, was the WINNER of the 2021 Kindle Book Award (best mystery/thriller) and a Finalist for the CLUE and the 2021 RONE Award (InD'Tale magazine),

Kevin lives in Central New Jersey with his photographer wife. When not in times of global pandemic, they love to travel (on cruise ships, especially) and Kevin loves playing tournament poker and cheering on his beloved New York Mets.

Reviews

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

DOUBLE TAKEDOWN (Mike Stoneman Book #6) by Kevin G. Chapman is another complex, intricately plotted addition to this NYPD homicide detective crime thriller series. Det. Mike Stoneman is back with his partner, Det. Jason Dickson and a familiar cast of supporting characters. Even though this is the sixth book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone, but all of them are worth reading.

Det. Mike Stones and his partner, Det. Jason Dickson are attending a charity ballet event at Lincoln Center with their wives when a man in the front of the theater dies. They are assigned to the investigation. It is a straightforward investigation, and the main suspect is now set to stand trial, but even after a year and a half, he is still maintaining his innocence.

As Mike and Jason begin trial prep with the D.A., the private investigator for the accused comes to Jason and tells him his client is innocent and being framed. Second thoughts and witness deaths send Mike and Jason looking back over their work and discovering false alibis, lies, drug abuse, and jealousy.

With one man who has claimed his innocence from the start, clues leading to deceit, and witnesses dying, will Mike and Jason be able to uncover the truth before a devious killer eliminates all proof leading to him?

I always enjoy returning to this group of characters. Mike, Jason and all the supporting characters are believable, and the crime plots are always intriguing as well as twisted. This story has two police investigations that may or may not be connected, and I was completely caught up in both. Mr. Chapman always gives me a page-turner that I am unable to put down.

I highly recommend this police procedural/crime thriller and the entire Mike Stoneman series!

[NatalieSWrightBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin G. Chapman's police procedural thriller
Double Takedown is the sixth book in the Mike Stoneman detective series. A Police procedural thriller and a thrilling read, based on the investigation into a horrific murder at a charity ballet event at Lincoln Center.

Detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson quickly come up with a main suspect, Nathan Matthews. With the trial just around the corner, Matthews maintains his innocence and claims he was set up. Whilst an ex-cop, now PI, contacts Mike and Jason, concerned that the real killer may still be at large. He works for Matthews and is wanting the case reopened, to try to establish his client's innocence prior to trial, which may heavily impact their careers.

The story shows deep insights into drug abuse, treachery and premeditated murder. With plot twists a plenty and even though you may think you have worked out the answers, the final twists will be set to prove you wrong!

This police series will undoubtedly stand the test of time and is up there with the best of them. Quite possibly one of the best thrillers out there. Chapman's storytelling gifts are many and varied. Each book stands alone as a great read, but the series is definitely worth reading as a whole. Great depth to characters, making them come to life easily and readily.

This sixth installment by Kevin G.Chapman, in the Mike Stoneman series, Double Takedown is without a doubt up there with the best of them in his craft and 100% worth a read, and I guarantee that you’ll want to read them all!!

[Susan Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable, intriguing investigation. I enjoyed the comradery between Jason and Mike and their families. Were the murders related, if they were all murders, and can they be solved? You'll have to read it to see!

[Feathered Quill Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin G. Chapman's police procedural thriller Double Takedown (A Mike Stoneman Mystery) is an intriguing read that revolves on the dramatic investigation into a horrific murder shrouded in mystery which occurs at a charity ballet event at Lincoln Center.

After the poisoning of lead actor Alex Bishop, detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson quickly gather evidence against the main suspect, Nathan Matthews. With the trial just around the corner, Matthews maintains his innocence and claims he was set up. However, the testimony of multiple witnesses suggests that Matthews had the opportunity and motivation to kill Bishop. His dissatisfaction supposedly stemmed from Bishop's leading part in a production he was the director of. He openly disregarded Bishop, terming him as a washed-up movie star and even said he wanted him to die so he could hire a different actor. The night before he died, Matthews had handed Bishop a drink at a function. His browser history also showed he had looked up the heart medicine Bishop was taking secretly.

Concerned that the real murderer may still be at large, an ex-policeman who is now a private investigator contacts Mike and Jason. He works for Matthews and is seeking a reopening of the case to establish his client's innocence prior to trial. His view of the case sends the two detectives seeking out a fake alibi recruited by an individual believed to have a deep-seated grudge against Bishop. However, witnesses begin to die mysteriously, as a well calculated series of falsehoods lead the authorities and prosecution further away from the truth.

This story delves deeply into drug abuse, premeditated murder, and extreme treachery. It eloquently conveys the complexities of friendship, professionalism, love gone sour, promiscuity, and jealousy. The protagonists are especially confronted with heartbreaking inadequacies that cast doubt on their sleuth skills and capacity to pursue justice in the face of fierce opposition. The plot twists and turns to a fascinating, unexpected, yet rewarding reveal as fresh information becomes accessible. The heroes are forced to act and think creatively, though, as a result of a supervisor brutally stifling the new evidence. With the introduction of their spouses, their familial values and strong work ethic add to the reading enjoyment. The high-stakes atmosphere of their work displays a red-hot zone where prompt decision making must be double-checked to prevent heart-stopping dilemmas from occurring.

As far as contemporary police procedurals go, this series is bound to stand the test of time and is unquestionably one of the best thrillers out there. Chapman's storytelling gifts are many and varied. Multifaceted character development, realistic and engaging conversation writing, and narrative development are all areas in which he thrives. Only after you peel back the layers of his writing do you realize you have not really figured out the plot, even if you thought you did.

Quill says: The sixth installment in the Mike Stoneman Mystery series, Double Takedown is a mind-blowing and perfect detective mystery read.

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. With all the bumbling Amateur Sleuths out there, it was nice to read how the professionals do it in this police procedural mystery and boy did they have there work cut out for them. With two cases on the go the story never had time to slow down and get boring, in fact it kept me hooked until the very end. This is book six in the series but the story works well as a standalone addition, that's not to say the rest of the series isn't worth a read because they are, it just you don't need to read them in order. I like the characters and think Mike and Jason work well as a team and of course with the help they receive from others. The story is nicely balanced with it not all focusing on the two cases and contains some home life drama to give them depth and character. The two cases worked well together and both had a few twists that left you guessing. I can't wait for the next investigation with this dynamic duo.
When a private investigator questions whether the right man is going to be tried for murder, Mike and Jason start looking into a cold case to ask the question were they too quick to judge? At the same time a influencer dies of a drug over dose and the top brass wants to make sure things are fine right. Was it accidental or was she murdered. With time running out Mike and Jason will have to move fast and carefully on the cold case but asking questions brings about the death of a witness and the open and shut closed case doesn't seem so simple. Can they uncover the truth? The influencer case isn't so simple either when they find videos where someone encourages people to take drugs.I
I liked the narrator. Having the author read the story was a good idea, as he knows how the story sounded in his head and has no problem translating it for the listener, with all the nuances etc.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Joey Madia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In April 2022, I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing the first book in what is now a six-book series. Righteous Assassin, which introduced Manhattan detective Mike Stoneman, is a hard-hitting police procedural that employs all of the tropes one would expect in this popular genre. Stoneman himself is a trope—single, impatient, difficult to please, untrusting, and intensely hard on himself. His job is his life, and he takes it seriously (just consider his name: Stoneman). Stoneman’s introduction is compounded by his being assigned a new partner, Jason Dickson—a fast-rising Black man, which leads to accusations of affirmative action over merit. Despite their lack of trust in each other (which creates a nice underlying tension in Righteous Assassin), they manage to work well enough together to capture a serial killer with a unique agenda.
At the time I wrote the review of Righteous Assassin, knowing there were already four other books in the series, I predicted that the author would slowly but surely take Mike Stoneman and develop him into the kind of nuanced, complex character that rises above the tropes and strictures of genre. After all, that is the great joy of undertaking the journey for both the writer and their readers with a multivolume narrative.
Although I have not read the other Mike Stoneman Thrillers—Deadly Enterprise, Lethal Voyage, Fatal Infraction, and Perilous Gambit—it is clear from Double Takedown that my prediction was correct, and some of the events that led to Stoneman’s changes pleasantly surprised me.
A lot has happened to Mike and Jason since the events of Righteous Assassin. Chapman delivers some of the details through multiple organic, strategically placed callbacks throughout the book to events on a cruise ship and surrounding football. There are also references to boundaries they have crossed, mistakes they have made, and the heat that they have taken, primarily from their boss.
Their latest case(s) draw from the worlds of musical theatre and drag shows, internet influencers, and exotic drug and exclusive party culture. While there are numerous overlaps between these high-stakes, complicated worlds, Chapman distinctly describes them, crafting detailed landscapes in which his heroes can show different aspects of their personalities.
This time around, Stoneman and Dickson have abundant help from their spouses. Mike’s now wife, Michelle, was introduced as the medical examiner in Righteous Assassin, a position she still holds. Jason’s wife, Rachel, has recently moved from being an EMT to working in cable news. They have a three-year-old son, JJ, and live with Rachel’s mother, which makes for a less than ideal situation.
The opening of Double Takedown takes place at Lincoln Center during a fundraiser, where the two couples are dressed to the nines and enjoying their first night out since the pandemic. Both Michelle and Rachel’s skills come in handy, and, in Rachel’s case, this garners her attention and opportunity.
The book then moves a year ahead. The trial for what seems to be a straightforward case of poisoning of a lead actor in the multiple Tony Award–winning Godfather musical by his director is well underway when a controversial ex-cop (a callback to the racial discrimination roots of Righteous Assassin) turned private investigator throws Mike and Jason’s methods of investigating the case and arrest into question.
As their always-upset supervisor and the district attorney urge the detectives to let it go, especially after the jury finds their (only) suspect guilty, Mike and Jason are assigned another case, involving the fatal drug OD of a social media influencer with multiple bedmates and a penchant for pushing the boundaries of drug experimentation. Through this storyline, we are introduced to a high-powered financier and his wife (in the midst of a contentious divorce), a YouTube hippie called the Pharmacist, and several more characters from the worlds of musical theatre and social media influence. It is clear that Chapman has done his research in all of these areas (although I have zero experience in the drug world, and little in the world of the 1%, I am a veteran of the musical theatre world).
Not willing to let a (possibly) innocent man go to prison for murder, Mike and Jason, primarily on their own, but with help from a cast of well-drawn beat cops who are also working the drug OD case, follow threads that lead them to a possible suspect at the heart of both of these cases (hence the novel’s title).
Double Takedown could have an alternate title—Family Affair. A good portion of the book involves weekend get-togethers with the two married couples, Michelle’s Broadway-aspiring niece, Star (who is a freshman at NYU), and one of Star’s musical theatre friends with an intimate knowledge of the drag scene. Over lots of takeout and home-cooked meals, this group of six try to put the pieces together, as the body count goes up and the odds increase that an innocent man is sitting in prison, in part because of the two detectives not looking at other suspects. This group-mind family situation is in some ways refreshing, moving away from the Michael Mann–fueled trope of the insular, damaged cop who drives around the city at night to the minor chords and electronic drum riffs of jukebox rock and is absent even when he is home.
A story of redemption, family politics, dreams achieved and dashed, and the foibles of modern internet culture, Double Takedown is less the gritty, trope-filled crime procedural that is Righteous Assassin. There is more levity, pop-culture referencing, and semi-downtime for the detectives. The tensions between them have all but evaporated, although their personalities are still distinct, and they do not always see eye to eye. With Jason’s future as a detective in question due to pressure from his wife (and his pursuit of a master’s degree in public administration), it seems clear that the growth arcs of Chapman’s two lead characters are not yet complete, offering the possibility of future books with new macro and micro dynamics.
Chapman’s skill as an author has been acknowledged with the following awards: the 2024 CLUE Award Grand Prize (best suspense/thriller of the year); 2021 Kindle Book Award (best mystery/suspense); 2022 CLUE Award, best police procedural, and 2023 CLUE Award, best suspense/thriller; Finalist for RONE Award, NEIA Mystery Award, and the Kindle Book Award.
If you are looking for a crime procedural series in which to sink your teeth, there are six great reasons to do so with Kevin Chapman’s accolade-garnering Mike Stoneman Thrillers.

[Mimi Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double Takedown is the sixth in the Mike Stoneman detective series and a fan favorite. I am typically a medical thriller reader, so the detective series has been a fun change for me. I enjoyed the story lines and character development that evolved throughout the series. This book is set in the post pandemic world and combines the art of Broadway Theatre with modern Social Media influence to arrive at a plot twist the reader never expects. NYPD Homicide detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson are faced with the task of reopening an investigation that may have a fatal implication and impact their careers. For the series, each book stands alone as a great read and a series follower can enjoy deep the linkages peppered throughout the grouping. The main characters have their own deep stories developing in conjunction with case plot. I love that the author did his law degree in NYC and his wife (co-author) is a NYC native. The NYC authenticity shines through and keeps the reader searching for tidbits of NYC fun. I highly recommend the book and the series.

[Phillip Vega · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Double Takedown," the sixth installment of Kevin G. Chapman's Mike Stoneman series, readers are treated to a masterfully crafted police procedural that keeps you guessing until the end. Set in New York City two years after the pandemic, the story follows homicide detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson as they unravel a murder mystery that begins at a charity ballet performance.

What starts as a seemingly straightforward case of an audience member's sudden death during a performance quickly evolves into a complex web of deceit and intrigue. The victim, Alex Bishop, a lead actor in a struggling Broadway show, becomes the center of an investigation that spans the boroughs of New York and involves a cast of colorful suspects.

Chapman's attention to detail in the investigative process is impressive, guiding readers through each step of the case with expert precision. The pacing is spot-on, maintaining tension and interest throughout. The author skillfully introduces new suspects and plot twists, keeping readers on their toes and second-guessing their assumptions.

One of the strengths of "Double Takedown" is its ability to stand alone within the series. New readers can jump in without feeling lost, as Chapman deftly weaves character backgrounds and relationships into the narrative. The dynamic between Mike and Jason is particularly well-developed, showcasing their partnership and individual strengths.

The subplot involving private investigator Sterling Wright adds another layer of intrigue to the story, challenging the detectives' initial conclusions and pushing them to dig deeper. This element adds depth to the plot and showcases the author's ability to craft a multi-faceted narrative.
While the book excels in its procedural aspects and plot development, some readers might occasionally find the large cast of characters overwhelming. However, this minor issue is overshadowed by the overall quality of the storytelling and the satisfying resolution of the mystery.

"Double Takedown" is a must-read for fans of police procedurals and crime thrillers. Chapman's blend of meticulous investigative work, high-stakes suspense, and well-developed characters creates a compelling read that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Whether you're a long-time fan of the Mike Stoneman series or a newcomer, this book will satisfy your craving for a well-crafted mystery.

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin G. Chapman writes another brilliant Mike Stoneman tale with Double Takedown

As all of the books in the Mike Stoneman series, they just get better and better. I liked Mike and his relationship with his partner Jason, since I read the first book. Double Takedown is part of the Mike Stoneman Thriller series, and this is volume six. I am a big fan of Kevin G. Chapman and read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. The story has several layers, and great realistic characters, with flaws and personality, and sometimes they clash, and other times, they are right on track, but always have each other's back. Mike and Jason are two of my favorite detectives, and I like that the author brings in their outside relationships, like with their wives, who add finesse and loyalty to their husbands. Mike and Jason have a new case, that they didn't even know was coming. A trial for a case they were on and thought they solved, gets turned upside down. Murder in the theater is more than just a killing it review, it's a case that brings a lot of attention, and theories. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. This story is a wondrous trail of words. With all that's going on in the story, you'd think you'd be lost, but you don't. It has depth, and each character feels so real, and the story brings you right into it, wondering what will happen next. I just love, love, love this story. The reader just embarks on a superb journey. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. This journey was very unpredictable. Kevin G. Chapman is a magnificent storyteller! Drugs, murder, mayhem, and a superb, almost perfect crime with the almost perfect frame up. Double Takedown is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.

[Bevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

CW: murder, death, drug use, some others

Thank you to the author and Black Tide Book Tours for the digital copy!

It turns out that I much prefer to watch my police procedurals, but this was a good switch up from my usual genres.

When a famous actor drops dead in the middle of a broadway show, Detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson work what seems to be an open and shut case. Over a year later, though, new evidence is brought to their attention, and it forces them to wonder—was the case too easy? Meanwhile, a social media starlet’s demise could be an accident…or it could be a murder.

As I mentioned, this book definitely falls into the “procedural” side of things, and not so much the typical murder mystery vein that I usually read. As such, at times it felt a little slow. The writing was good, and the overall story was interesting, I just don’t have the patience (apparently) for reading all the behind the scenes action. If that sort of thing is your jam, though, I think you may really enjoy this one.

Outside of that, I don’t have a ton of extra commentary on this book; it’s just not one that left me with a lot of extra thoughts that I felt the need to yell about. There’s some discrepancy between what a police officer ‘should’ do and what our MCs *actually* do, but no more so than one would see on tv. At times the home life scenes felt a little info-dumpy, but they were easy enough to overlook, and that trend settled out later in the story. Again, this one is a decent story, just not my personal style.

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read several of the thrillers featuring Mike Stoneman and enjoyed them all. This one was no exception. Just as we would expect in a book like this, homicide detectives Mike Stoneman and his partner Jason Dickson experience some tense situations. They have to figure out where to dig to find the answers they’re searching for and put all the pieces together to find the solution, just like with any good police detective mystery. However, this one has a twist that isn’t so common. That is the “case” they’ve decided to investigate is already solved, at least from an official point of view. They arrested a culprit and he’s headed for trial. But now they’re questioning whether they got the right guy. Maybe they did, but there were accomplices who should also be arrested.

I found myself torn about this story. Obviously, the guilty parties should be found and arrested. If the person that is set to go on trial is innocent, he should be let go. But what Stoneman and Dickson do to continue digging worried me. That their bosses told them not to dig bothered me and also caused me to worry that by going behind their boss’s back that it was going to backfire on them. I guess my feelings were conflicted, wanting the guilty parties to pay the price, but not wanting the good guys to get into trouble or cross the line to no longer being the good guys. All of that just upped the tension even more.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **

[Kristy Kloster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin G. Chapman’s Double Takedown is nothing less than a masterclass in storytelling. From the first page, I was already into the streets of New York, where the line between right and wrong blurs, and justice is not as black-and-white as it seems. As a long-time reader of police procedurals, I can say without hesitation that this book stands out for its plot, character development, and suspense.

The story centers on NYPD detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson, two characters whose friendship and dedication to their work feel authentic. Their banter is sharp and realistic, offering light momentsin an otherwise tense narrative. The moral complexity they face as they investigate an earlier closed murder case—despite strict orders to leave it alone—raises profound questions about justice and accountability.

The trial of the Broadway director accused of poisoning his lead actor is a great backdrop. Chapman does a phenomenal job weaving the world of high-stakes theater into the police investigation, creating a unique intersection of art, greed, and murder. The courtroom scenes are impeccably written, with tension as evidence is presented. Just when you think you know where the story is headed, Chapman throws in a twist that leaves you questioning everything.

Chapman knows exactly when to ramp up the action and when to let the characters breathe, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and victories.

[Roxx Tarantini · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first read, Mike Stoneman #6 feels a bit different. Right from the outset, the Detectives' skills are seemingly brought into question. Did they charge the wrong guy? Was it a setup so perfect that even these two street-wise NYPD cops didn't see it? Or is a spade simply a spade, and the murderer is trying every last resort?

It all remains to be discovered, as the detectives rehash the clues, the evidence, and the possibilities until they reach their inevitable conclusion.

Still savvy as ever, Mike and Jason are probably my two favourite detectives. Their side stories with their wives and families enhance what is already sure to be a great read.

Another page-turner, you won't put this down till the end, I promise!

[I was fortunate to receive a pre-publication copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. All opinions herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]

[Carola Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Double Takedown by Kevin G. Chapman pulls you right into a world of high-stakes investigation and relentless pursuit of truth. Detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson are faced with an intense moral dilemma when a suspect in a high-profile case claims he’s been framed, shaking up what they thought was an open-and-shut case. The author doesn’t just give us a crime story; he gives us the inner conflicts that come with it.

What I enjoyed most is that there is action but also a great character development. Stoneman and Dickson aren’t just cops on a case—they’re complex, with real doubts and grit, willing to put everything on the line to uncover the truth, even if it means defying orders. The tension builds as they dig into a case that might reveal more than they bargained for, and the twists keep coming, making this a read that doesn’t let up.

This is a book that crime thriller fans will appreciate for its authenticity and gripping pace.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: I was as entertained by book six as I was with all the other books in this series. I was very happy that the author wrote another story with these characters as NYPD detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson have been some of my favorites since their introduction. This story gripped my imagination with its revolving cast of suspects. I liked the realistic feel as the detectives acknowledged their own possible shortcomings regarding their investigation, and then their struggle to ensure that the whole truth was uncovered. I thought Kevin G. Chapman's narration was great, and I appreciated that he provided recognizable voices for the different characters. I was given an advanced listeners' copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which included my honest opinions regarding this story.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be quite slow paced for a thriller, but I quite liked that. It felt more realistic than some of the faster paced crime thrillers where police manage to solve crimes within a couple of days.

This is book 6 in a series, and why break the habit of a lifetime and read the previous 5! So I didn't, but I find this genre of book lends itself particularly well to working both as a series, and a standalone.

I liked the backdrop of the world of theatre in this book, and was mentally checking off which musicals I have seen as they were mentioned. I thought the characters and their relationships with each other were well written and realistic. There was the right balance of action and background story for me. I think my favourite character was Star, I could see her having her own career in the police, and a series about it, in future.

[A · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is my first book of this series, and it works fine as a standalone. The book is ok & easy to read, but I wasn’t especially interested in the story or the characters. There were a lot of names to keep track of, many of whom just blurred together for me. It was repetitive, with the 2 main detectives ruminating on their hunch that they didn’t effectively investigate a past case, which they then re-open. The plot involves people in the theatre, which is refreshingly different. Similarly, the ‘murder weapon’ was also pretty original. But the story still isn’t especially memorable. ‘The Other Murder’ by the same author raised some interesting issues and was more to my liking. I won a free copy of this book (thanks to the author & publisher!) and am voluntarily providing an honest review.

[JustJeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson novel following their investigation into another murder. Thinking they are able to close a case, their skills come under scrutiny, which makes them question themselves. Meanwhile, another murder occurs and assigned to them. This is another page-turner following hardened Mike Stoneman trying to put the puzzle pieces together. A variety of detailed and colorful characters are woven throughout to offer twists and turns and a red herring or two. The story also includes more realism by sharing some personal time about our favorite detectives. Highly recommend. I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.

[Eli San Miguel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thrilling—that I can attest. This police mystery keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Detectives Mike Stoneman and Jason Dickson dive into a tangled Broadway murder case, facing tough choices and surprises at every turn. Their partnership feels real and relatable, and the extra twist from private investigator Sterling Wright adds even more excitement to the story.

While there are a lot of characters to keep track of, the book is easy to follow and works great even if you haven’t read the earlier ones in the series.

With its fast pace, clever twists, and engaging characters, Double Takedown is perfect for anyone who loves a good crime thriller.

[Kevin Cannon (Monty's Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens when the detectives that put together a water tight case for murder suddenly have reason to doubt its veracity?

Mike Stoneman and his detective partner are torn between ensuring the alleged perpetrator is convicted whilst wanting to do a bit of digging to make absolutely sure they have the right man against the wishes of the DA.

This is my favourite Stoneman thriller to date. Great characters, a thrilling plot and a believable investigation.

[Marianne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterclass in suspense and detective work.

Kevin G. Chapman impresses with the Mike Stoneman Mystery series, mixing courtroom drama with investigations. The moral complexity of reopening a closed case added to the story, keeping me questioning what justice really means. Stoneman and Dickson's chemistry as partners is sharp, and the twists in the case are unexpected but satisfyingly earned.


This is crime fiction at its finest—tense, intelligent, and unputdownable.

[Lori Byrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although my name is used as a character in this book, that in no way impacts my review of this awesome book. I love Mike and Jason's characters as they work well together to solve murders. You just never know what twists and turns Kevin comes up with in his books. And don't be fooled, there are twists and turns. I'm hooked on his books. Amazingly excellent.

[Coffee Book Couch by Ava · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kevin G. Chapman knows how to ratchet up the tension, and every chapter has you wondering what Mike and Jason will uncover next. The courtroom scenes are gripping, and also the investigation. The adrenaline is incredibly high for everyone involved. This book doesn’t just deliver thrills—it challenges you to think about how far you’d go to uncover the truth. Absolutely brilliant.

[Carianne Carleo-Evangelist · Rating 4 out of 5]

engaging story

I really loved the elements of theater in this - and the varied settings in all of Chapman’s books which is what makes it fun to follow Mike and Jason through their cases. While there were more characters in this one, it was nice to see old faces like Jackie.

Looking forward to what’s next for all of them

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense with a great storyline and a vast cast of characters. Stories within a bigger plot that twists and turns in so many directions your brain will be kept busy trying to keep up.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

NYOD Homicide Detectives, Jason and Mike have a big and dangerous case. Who really committed the crime. Full of suspense and surprises. Don’t miss out.

[Patricia Mccammon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. fantastic story line keeps you guessing all the way. Great characters. won this in a Goodreads Giveaway

[Michieee · Rating 4 out of 5]

RTC

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Mike Stoneman novel from Kevin G. Chapman! I love this series. You can read my full review here: https://thereadingwife.com/double-tak...

[The Cats’ Mother · Rating 4 out of 5]

Double Takedown is the sixth instalment in the Mike Stoneman homicide detective series set in New York. I’ve read them all in order, and the evolving relationships between the characters are part of the charm of these books, but this would also work fine as a standalone mystery. The plot centres around two suspected poisoning cases - one of a stage actor during a charity ballet performance, the other of a socialite whose wild parties were the talk of her exclusive apartment complex, but neither death is as straightforward as it seems.

Senior detective Mike and his long-term partner Jason Dickson are enjoying a night out in the Lincoln Centre with their partners, when a cry goes out - someone in the front row has collapsed and needs urgent medical help. Jason’s wife Rachel, a former EMT rushes to help the patient, but it’s too late to save him, and it’s Mike’s wife, Chief Medical Examiner Michelle who discovers that the man was killed by a deadly prescription drug interaction. Then our heroes are put in charge of the death by overdose case of a young influencer - but was it suicide, an accident, or murder?

In both cases, our heroes must look beyond the obvious solution to find the truth and stop an innocent man being sent to prison, and a possible poisoner getting away with murder. This series has a nice balance between the heroes’ work and family lives - we get to see how Jason & Rachel are enjoying married life, and Mike & Michelle are coping with living together with their cat, Topsy! There’s enough action to make it an enjoyable thriller and a good array of suspects for mystery lovers. I look forward to continuing the series.

Thanks to Kevin for the opportunity to beta read this and then review the final version. Double Takedown is available now.