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C.T. Ferguson #17

Unreasonable Doubt: A C.T. Ferguson Crime Novel

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A dangerous killer targets criminals released on technicalities.

Then, he sets his sights on C.T. Ferguson.


Explosions rock the city of Baltimore. Bomb blasts kill criminals convicted of terrible offenses but released on legal technicalities. The police are either unable or unwilling to identify a culprit.

When another private investigator looking into the matter ends up dead, the case falls to C.T. and his intrepid assistant T.J. It doesn’t take them long to wind up on the murderer’s radar.

As C.T. and T.J. struggle to puzzle out a maniac’s identity and motive, the killer raises the stakes. People close to C.T. become targets, and the next explosion just might kill someone he loves.

Can C.T. and T.J. solve the case before innocents join the body count?

Unreasonable Doubt is the pulse-pounding 17th mystery novel in the C.T. Ferguson crime fiction series. Each story stands alone, so you can enjoy the books in whatever order you discover them.

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 25, 2024

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Tom Fowler

277 books136 followers

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5 stars
64 (74%)
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17 (19%)
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3 (3%)
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2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
52 reviews
January 5, 2025
Loved it! A literally explosive thriller! The main character, private investigator C. T. Ferguson is hired to investigate the bombing death of a criminal recently released from prison on a technicality found in the court case. The investigation leads to more bombings and the bomber becomes “famous” through social media making the PI’s investigation challenging and complicated. This story involves murder, mayhem and a dangerous suspect who will stop at nothing to carry out his vendetta. Many twists and turns when innocent lives are threatened especially those close to C.T.

This is Book #17 in the series and is a good read, it was exciting and fast moving and very difficult to set aside by this reader.
Profile Image for Christopher Davies.
59 reviews4 followers
January 1, 2025
Tom Fowler's "Unreasonable Doubt" is the 17th installment in the C.T. Ferguson crime novel series, and it delivers the blend of action, snark, and flawed characters that readers have come to expect. This book plunges private investigator C.T. Ferguson into a complex case involving a series of bombings, forcing him to navigate a treacherous landscape of vigilantism, legal loopholes, and public opinion.

The story kicks off with C.T. finding himself at the scene of an explosion, quickly realizing he might be the only witness. He is soon drawn into investigating the bombings after a victim's family hires his agency. The victims, all criminals released on technicalities, make the case a lightning rod of controversy. C.T. and his team, including his secretary T.J. and intern Lexi, find themselves in a race against time to stop the bomber, whose actions are stirring up public support.

**One of the strengths of the novel is the character development.** C.T. remains his usual witty and cynical self, but we also see a deeper side of him as he grapples with the consequences of his work and the threats to those he cares about. T.J. demonstrates her competence and loyalty, as well as her increasing frustration with the case. Lexi, the intern, brings a fresh perspective to the team and shows a surprising ability to contribute to the investigation. The dynamics between the three are entertaining and add a layer of humor to the tense investigation.

The plot is intricately woven, with multiple layers of complexity. The bombings are not random acts; they are targeted at individuals who have exploited the legal system. This raises questions about the nature of justice and the role of vigilantism, themes that are explored thoughtfully throughout the book. The investigation takes C.T. and his team through various leads and suspects, each with their own motivations and secrets. The narrative is fast-paced, with frequent twists and turns that keep the reader guessing.

**Fowler's writing style is engaging and accessible.** The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the action sequences are well-choreographed. The author skillfully creates a sense of suspense and tension, drawing the reader into the story and making them feel like they are right there alongside C.T.. The use of humor is effective in lightening the mood and providing a contrast to the seriousness of the subject matter. The book also touches on relevant social issues, such as media influence and the complexities of the criminal justice system.

The book also introduces a compelling antagonist in "Vox Populi", the moniker given to the bomber by the media. The killer's motives are driven by a warped sense of justice, and they use the media to justify their actions, garnering public support. This adds a layer of social commentary to the story, as it highlights the dangers of mob mentality and the power of media manipulation. C.T.'s struggle with the rising popularity of the bomber, and his need to remain anonymous also highlights the perils of fame..

**A key element of the book is the exploration of legal technicalities and their impact on the justice system.** The victims in this case were all released due to such technicalities, prompting the question of whether justice is always served within the bounds of the law. This angle allows the author to explore the complexities of law and the different ways individuals seek justice. The novel does not offer easy answers but rather invites the reader to reflect on these issues.

The supporting characters add depth to the narrative. C.T.'s cousin, Rich, a police lieutenant, provides insight into the official investigation, highlighting the differences between law enforcement and private investigation. Other characters, like the judge, Judge Black, and other figures from the legal system add a different perspective and dimension to the story. The interactions between these various personalities and C.T. are often tense and illuminating.

**The pacing of the novel is excellent.** The plot moves along at a steady clip, with each chapter adding a new piece to the puzzle. The investigation involves the team in interviewing suspects, analyzing evidence, and uncovering connections that lead them closer to the truth. The book also has a fair amount of suspense, particularly when C.T. or his team confront dangerous individuals, or when the team is targeted by the bomber.

The book also doesn't shy away from showing the impact of violence on individuals and families. The emotional toll of the bombings is evident in the characters, adding a layer of realism to the story. C.T.'s own relationship with his wife is also depicted, showcasing the personal stakes involved in his work. These moments of personal reflection help to humanize C.T. and create a well-rounded protagonist.

While the book focuses on the immediate investigation, there are also underlying threads that add to the story's depth. These themes explore personal responsibility, and the ways that trauma can impact a person.

Overall, “Unreasonable Doubt” is a well-written and engaging addition to the C.T. Ferguson series. It’s a thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, while also prompting them to think about complex social and legal issues. The book is an excellent choice for fans of crime fiction, and those who enjoy flawed characters and fast-paced plots. The ending of the book sets up the next installment in the series, “Digging in the Dark”, which is set to release in the summer of 2025, promising more mysteries and action with C.T. Ferguson.
1,837 reviews13 followers
December 12, 2024
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story begins with CT doing his morning run returning home when he hears an explosion. He rushes to the scene and discovers a car that has been blown up with a person inside. We later learn that there are two others that have already happened the same way. It seems that all of the victims have been released from prison on a technicality. CT and his team are hired by a friend of one of the victims to find the killer. It seems that there is a story out that makes the killer out as a savior, Stories of him doing justice to those that should never have been released.

Other cars have bombs placed and even CT's folks are not spared. CT and his teal finally narrow down the killer and as a result, the killer writes a blog and threatens CT for sticking his nose somewhere that he shouldn't have. As the police close in, they don't have any idea where those suspects are at. CT finds something in info taken from the killer's home. It leads him to an individual that CT gets to give him some information. With what CT learned, it is now trying to beat the clock.

To learn how CJ, Lexi and CJ narrowed the clues down, who on CT's group were victimized, what info had CT dashing to a location as well it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book.
202 reviews3 followers
December 25, 2024
C T Ferguson and TJ are joined in this story by Lexi Tyler as an intern in C T’s PI business. Lexi is the daughter of John Tyler, the main character in another series. On a morning run, C T hears an explosion nearby, and the story starts, one could say, with a BANG. A number of crims released from prison on technicalities are being killed in explosions and the widow of an early casualty calls on the PI firm to investigate as the police do not seem to be making any headway. The investigation identifies an appeal court judge who insist that there can be nothing overlooked in cases, with all proper steps taken, and it eventuates that he has considered the appeals of those that have eventually been killed after being released.
The team investigate looking for the perp, when threats are made to the team and C T’s family. With unexpected twists and turns, they follow through with their investigations until finally the perpetrator is identified and brought down,
An interesting story of a vigilante in the community which can be identified with some of the soft legal situations we seem to have in our communities nowadays. A good entertaining read.
104 reviews2 followers
December 26, 2024
I love when my favorite characters from 2 different series cross over. That’s what happens in Unreasonable Doubt when John Tyler’s daughter Lexi, interns for C.T. Ferguson, and it couldn’t be a more perfect fit. A vigilante bomber is taking out criminals in Baltimore after they were released on legal technicalities. Fowler makes a good case for dismissing a case when the legalities have been bungled, impinging on the defendant’s constitutional rights. He also makes a good case for public outrage when said criminals are released back on the streets. When C.T. is hired to investigate by one of the victim’s family, he gets too close to the bomber, which brings the bomber to him. The action is nonstop with the bomber always a few steps ahead of C.T. and the police. Another great read by Tom Fowler!
Profile Image for Teresa Collins.
1,170 reviews21 followers
December 26, 2024
Unreasonable Doubt is literally a "blast". It opens with a car bomb and takes off running and never stops until the last page is turned. The "bad guy" is killing off people that they feel were guilty of the crimes they were charged with but got off on technicalities. They don't feel this is right so they take matters into their own hands. And we're off to the races. There is so much action in this book that it refuses to let go. I especially enjoyed the deeper emotional component of this story. as C.T. struggles with the fact that people he loves are in jeopardy because his investigation has put them on the killer's radar. I highly recommend this series for fans of thrillers, police/PI procedurals, and fans of good storytelling. I received a review copy from the author at my request and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
6,044 reviews46 followers
December 15, 2024

Lexi the Intern goes to work!

It's fun to see a bit of the world of veteran Green Beret John Tyler cross over again into the world of CT Ferguson, PI and associates.

CT might not trust her dad, but is willing to give Lexi a try, with much nudging from his assistant TJ.

A favorite phrase from this katest book comes from CT facing off with a mob that's been prodded by vigilantes:
. . . my money's on girls with guns".

As they used to day in the ninties, I would go to war with these girls at my back.

Lexi and TJ promise some new twists, girl power, and likely some more fire power when things get crazy, as they seem to do when CT Ferguson and a host of friends, family and associates get involved.

It's an explosive bunch of adventures!


2,676 reviews50 followers
December 9, 2024
Off the chain and insane crazy good read. This one had some really hair raising close calls. Some of those close calls come pretty close to home making this very personal indeed!!! This was intense , gripping , and compelling the whole way through . There is no let down or break from the action, because it's nonstop and full throttle all the way. Highly suspenseful and edge of your seat. It seemed very planned and methodical the way the bombs were planted and the last one could have ended very differently. C T is a hero with an insane amount of gusto, integrity, and character. What a ride. Thank you.
Profile Image for Kate.
704 reviews18 followers
December 13, 2024
Unreasonable Doubt by Tom Fowler is the 17th book in this series featuring C.T. Ferguson. This book proved to be another wild ride in the life of the Private Investigator. I found this book to be a real page turner and I read it in two days. I received an advance copy from the author, I also purchased a copy on Amazon, and I always review every book that I read. The plot and characters are well developed and it will keep you in suspense to the very end. It is fairly clean - closed door, with just a few F-bombs. I highly recommend this book and the entire series. This can also be read as a stand alone, so you don't have to start from book 1, but they are wonderful also.
665 reviews4 followers
December 25, 2024
As with every other book in this series, this one is excellent. Tom Fowler knows his characters inside and out and gives his readers the benefit of this knowledge. He also knows just how to weave and pace a truly compelling crime story. The stakes are the highest they have ever been for CT Ferguson this time around, but he won't let that sway him from bringing the bad guys to justice. The author manages the difficult balancing act of raising the tension whilst keeping his story flowing so the reader never feels bogged down. No spoilers from me here, but rest assured, this is a gripping crime read from a great writer.
337 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2024
Thirsty for coffee and hungry for justice ...
With adding a third leg to his team C.T. has given himself a leveling factor that brings a another, new strong, female voice to his snappy sometimes sarcastic voice.
C. T. , T. J. and now Lexi explode into a new case that haunts them all. They work closely now with the police on this powder keg of a case. People are dieing and C. T. and his tongue put him and his team in the tangled wires of this adversary. Too many close calls get the creative juices flowing and C.T., and his team, start leading a charge.
I would say this is going to be another great hit for this author, Tom Fowler.
609 reviews
December 11, 2024
Lexi finally gets a job with TJ and CT at Undercover Investigations. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat thinking they have figured out who is blowing up released convicts when something happens and they have to start from square one. Then once they really know who is doing the killing, it's proving it. The face off in the basement is hair raising. A very enthralling and exciting book. I kept expecting John Tyler to make a guest appearance which makes the tension going a definite five stars.
198 reviews3 followers
December 14, 2024
What a thrilling read. CT. always lives let to the max, is good at what he does, and is slowing and reluctantly increasing the good team around him. Busy beyond what he would like, this latest case is hardly manna from heaven. However it is a challenge he can’t ignore and as things heat up he realises it is threatening all those dear to him. So this is definitely not going to be dropped. As the tension ramps up he has decisions to make.
I received an Arc, this is my honest review. It’s another great read from Tom Fowler.
179 reviews2 followers
December 29, 2024
In the series's latest episode, the characters' cast grows with the addition of a new member, a young intern linked to another series by the same author.
The dynamics of the new team, coupled with the fast-paced action, are one of the best features of this thrilling novel.
While the story may start slowly, it quickly picks up the pace and returns to the light, entertaining tone that defines this series. Unreasonable Doubt is a thrilling, entertaining novel that promises more excitement in future episodes.
Profile Image for S McK.
310 reviews8 followers
December 29, 2024
Thrilling!

Another great C.T. Ferguson, et al, book, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Cars keep going, Boom and C.T., his assistant and new intern are determined to find the culprit but at what cost - family and loved ones beware, in this exciting thriller that has C.T. and the police flummoxed.

An admission at a crucial moment may have longer term implications for C.T. and Gloria...

Great book and series!
Profile Image for Carolyn Valdez.
529 reviews12 followers
December 31, 2024
Another great story to this great series. There is a lot of tense action., gripping the edge of your seat, and wondering what’s going to happen next. I have been on this series since book one and also that of the John Tyler series, and I will not quit until you, Mr. Fowler quits. I say keep them coming!!


I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
969 reviews8 followers
September 2, 2025
This was a heart pounding thriller. A bomber targets people close to C.T. I absolutely love that Lexi , John Tyler’s daughter, joins the team as an intern! Once C.T. figures out who the bomber is it turns into an exciting chase! I loved this book. There was a ton of drama and suspense. I loved how Lexi and C.J. Became good friends! C.T. needs to get busy because these girls need a raid! I highly recommend this book and this series!
860 reviews22 followers
December 10, 2024
A bomber is loose in Baltimore and C.T. is involved from the beginning.

While the bomber's targets are precise C.T.'s involvement upsets them.

A fast paced crime thriller that has breath holding moments as the hide and seek game with the bombers escalates for the police and C.T. as the tale barrels towards its climax.
Profile Image for Tina Lincoln.
507 reviews6 followers
December 11, 2024
Non-Stop Scary
This was a new territory and scary story. What happens when bad guys get really mad at you for trying to take down their enterprise? They start blowing people up! Then, they attempt to take out the wrong people!
Thank you, Tom Fowler, for another great story!
I received a complimentary copy of this story and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Manfred.
562 reviews
December 25, 2024
C.T. and T.J. have a new intern, Lexi Tyler. Someone targets criminals that came free because of technicalities and bombs them. When C.T. is asked to investigate by a relative, his and J.T.'s lives are threatened too. Lots of witty comments like in all the C.T. Ferguson mysteries and tension from start to finish. Again a very entertaining read in this series.
Profile Image for Anne G. Kasaba.
1,954 reviews8 followers
December 28, 2024
Wow, what an engrossing story! CT Ferguson is back with his witty banter and sarcastic comments. There is plenty of an action as he, his assistant, and inter work toward stopping a killer. The book is well written and the characters engaging. Not to be missed story.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
714 reviews5 followers
December 28, 2024
C.T happens to be nearby when a bomb goes off, of course he will get involved. He has some extra help in the form of TJ and Lexi he has the A team. A vigilante is much harder to catch when they are as sophisticated as this one, also when you can get the public on your side. Every time I think this series can't get better, Tom Fowler proves me wrong! Everyone should read this series.
Profile Image for BJayne.
155 reviews18 followers
December 28, 2024
Tom Fowler writes books with such complex characters. That’s what makes reading his stories so enjoyable. The storyline has plenty of twists and turns, making it interesting. You never know what the next chapter will bring. Always enjoyable!

I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntary leaving this review.
234 reviews3 followers
December 27, 2024
Whoa, what an adventure!! Bombs, assassins, bullies, an (as many people believe) overly righteous judge freeing criminals on legal technicalities who are now walking the streets, and a City in fear. Now a self-appointed vigilante appears who the public has named Vox Populi. The philosophy is that the victims were criminals, tried, convicted, and jailed, and then a judge comes along and frees them to prey on more innocent victims. _Vox Populi declares that no longer is this going to happen. Week after week, freed criminals are dying in exploding cars around the City of Baltimore. The Ferguson Detective Agency, consisting of C.T. and T.J., have now been joined by an intern, Lexi, [who is, in my view, one of my favorite characters from the John Tyler series (she is his daughter)]. The police seem to be stymied, and C.T. becomes involved when a family member of a freed, but now dead, criminal hires them to find the murderer. In the meantime, Vox Populi . is so proud of himself he uploads manifesto after manifesto justifying his “work” and who and why may be the next to die. Clue after clue piles up but the key to put them together seems to be beyond reach until another private detective searching for clues in the City is mysteriously run down and killed. When Vox Populi starts mentioning The Ferguson Detective Agency and everyone associated with it, CT realizes that he and his loved ones may be the next targets. The story is loaded with incredible excitement and chills. As the police state, you can duck a bullet, jump away from a car, but you don’t have a chance if your car is wired to explode. From the very beginning you are hooked and the reader will find it’s impossible to put the book down.
Profile Image for Michael Nethery.
149 reviews5 followers
December 14, 2024
Well Tom, another hit over the fence! You keep writing them, I’ll keep on reading them.
As always, a great cast of characters. A great plot line and a superb finish. Thank you and I look forward to the next turn at the plate!
1,318 reviews16 followers
December 17, 2024
CT and TJ have a new assistant - Lexi- whose father is John Tyler, a man CT does not care for, not one bit. But Lexi fits in and does her job well. Now it's your turn to see how these three smart and brave people work it all out. Witty, exciting, and fun. Highly Recommended.
2,579 reviews6 followers
December 17, 2024
I loved UNREASONABLE DOUBT.  C.T. and T.J. are awesome characters and the plot is well thought out and smooth with plenty of C.T. style action.
I reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book with no strings attached.
1,787 reviews12 followers
December 26, 2024
Blown To Hell

C.T.Ferguson was out for his daily run when an explosion got his attention. Find out where that took the Ferguson investigation. BTW there is a new investigator working there.
332 reviews
December 27, 2024
Oh! How I waited for this Kindle e-book!

Absolutely terrific.
From the first page I got submerged in the plot until it was difficult for me separate the reality from the story.
I've read the e-book in one full day.
I hope the next comes soon!
Profile Image for Susan Green.
543 reviews2 followers
January 13, 2025
Thoroughly engaging as always. C.T., his wife, and his team, including intern Lexi, are endangered by a bomber. Although I figured out the suspect when he/she was first introduced, the search for him/her is very intense. I anxiously await the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews