Gone to Ground

by Morgan Hatch

The first in a suspenseful new trilogy, a fast-paced thriller set in the streets of Los Angeles, featuring a Mexican American high school senior embroiled in a conspiracy that threatens to destroy his neighborhood.

Javier Jimenez is on a glide path to college while his brother, Alex, has done a 180 and is heading for trouble. Neither, however, have any idea what's coming their way when George Jones sets in motion his plan for their neighborhood. "Some people flip homes. I flip zip codes." It's a cataclysmic vision of urban renewal replete with manmade disasters, civil unrest, and a tsunami of ambitious Zoomers.

Meanwhile, Alex and Javier's feud quickly escalates, even as Alex finds himself in way over his head with Denker Street, the local gang. The bodies start falling, and Javier soon realizes Jones has put a target on his back. It's time to go to ground. Can he keep Alex from falling further into the streets? Can he outplay Jones at his own game? All this and his own hopes, once so bright, now fading like a smog-shrouded LA skyline.

Genres: Thriller, Crime, Suspense

310 pages

Published July 31, 2025

Reviews

[Matt · Rating 3 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Morgan Hatch, and Black Rose for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always eager to get my hands on books by new authors, I gladly accepted this ARC by Morgan Hatch. He drums up an interesting premise in this series debut and keeps the reader guessing as things progress. While
It might not be for everyone, Hatch is able to use a unique approach to tell an eerie story that has elements of greatness.

Javier Jimenez has a good head on his shoulders and is headed for post-secondary, though his younger brother, Alex, has chosen a life in the opposite direction. Neither could have predicted what awaited them when George Jones appears in their neighborhood with a plan of his own!

Javier does all he can to support Alex, though clashing with a local gang leaves the younger brother struggling to stay one step ahead of those he has chosen to befriend. When Javier sees violence come to his door, he learns that George Jones is to blame and has targeted him for reasons not entirely clear. All Javier can surmise is that the community will never be the same!

As L.A. serves as a tense backdrop, Javier will have to pull Alex from the dark side while ensuring that Jones does not get the upper hand. These brothers can only rely on one another, though no one is sure that will be enough. A curious series debut that has Morgan Hatch laying the groundwork for a rough and tumble collection.

New authors to me always leave a sense of curiosity, particularly when I have little knowledge of their previous work. Morgan Hatch delivers a piece that is both dark and action-filled, sure to keep some readers hooked. A narrative that clips along provides the attentive reader with something to enjoy, though I found it meandered too much for my liking. Characters have the ability to add depth for the story, but I failed to connect as much as I would have liked. Plot points were present, which will appeal to some readers, but I needed more. Perhaps I am in the minority, though I prefer honesty over blind adoration.

Kudos, Mr. Hatch, for a series debut that will impress some, even if it did not do it for me!

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Sarah Nantais · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first in a trilogy, Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch features a young man and the tense situation he finds himself in. How strong are family ties? And what is he willing to do to keep his brother safe? We meet Javier Jimenez, a young Mexican American who has his sights set on post-secondary. Along with Javier we meet his younger brother, Alex, who appears to be firmly facing the opposite direction as he falls in with an unsavory crowd. As if things are not already tense with brothers at odds, George Jones appears on the scene with a plan of his own: flip the entire neighbourhood as if it was as simple as flipping a house. Unfortunately for Javier, he’ll be pulled deeper than he intended to be.
Set against the backdrop of L.A., this book is a great introduction to the trilogy Hatch intends to write. We get a good understanding of the main players and how they play their parts. Grasping the teenage mindset, especially as a first-generation immigrant is not an easy task. Additionally, Hatch himself is white presenting so it’s curious to see how much he truly understands about the plights these brothers face. What Hatch does have in his corner, however, is first-hand experience teaching in L.A. himself, which has likely given him much exposure to the realities boys like Javier and Alex would face. It’s an excellent example of a writer utilizing their real-life experience and adapting it to the tale they wish to share. I would say Hatch has done a great job in this book.
The only difficulty with this book is the timing. This has nothing to do with Hatch, however with the unrest in L.A. due to current politics, this may be a hard read for some. That being said, if the reader can detach from their reality and allow themselves to be swallowed by the reality that Hatch crafts for them, perhaps it will be easier to read because the expectation in books is that the bad guys do not win. This is only the first in a trilogy, however, so I may be proven wrong. I’m actually excited to see the end result.
If you are looking for a coming-of-age story set in the heart of L.A. with strong family ties that are tested to their limits, Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is an excellent addition to your library.

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel will keep you guessing with its multiple moving parts, diverse characters, and perhaps even some situations you can relate to.

This book has several different storylines that took me a little time to understand how they connected. Politics is the center of it all, and you know how messy that can get.

At the center of this book are Javier and Alex. They are brothers, with one of them choosing the wrong path in life. Javier does his best to look out for Alex, but some nefarious characters have gotten their hooks into him, and it doesn't look good. There are some seedy characters looking out for themselves (politics!), and not taking into consideration the people in town. It correlates to what is happening in our world, but on a fictional level.

The characters in this novel face some tough choices. Some are based on surroundings, others are based on their situation, and some are based on the hand they have been dealt in life.

This novel reflects a lot of what we see in our world today, but there is always hope for a better outcome.

We give this book 4 paws up. 

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though clearly written for an adult audience, Gone To Ground has major crossover potential for older teens, especially those navigating complex environments themselves. The story feels relevant and raw, and the central theme of two brothers making drastically different choices is something many young readers will relate to. For educators or mentors working with youth, this book could serve as a powerful conversation starter about resilience, environment, and the consequences of choice. It doesn't preach, but it speaks volumes.

[Hannah Lindley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Javier is a Mexican-American high school senior. Tough and jaded but an excellent student headed for college, he is deeply concerned for his younger brother, Alex, who is a target for initiation into the local gang Denker Street. Meanwhile, the mysterious and sinister George Jones — whose motto is, “Some people flip homes. I flip zip codes,” — is determined to remake Javier’s neighborhood to his liking, provoking civil unrest and even seemingly natural disasters.
This isn’t a light read or an easy one, but it’s a skillfully written story. I was captivated by so many of the themes featured within it: the brand of resilience unique to children and young people; the fierce sense of duty and protectiveness that first-, second-, and even third-generation male immigrants feel towards their families; educators’ genuine desire to see their students succeed; and more. This is not a book for the faint of heart, but I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a literary gamechanger.

[Raquel Rolen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gone to Ground is a gritty, slow-burn thriller set in the heart of LA. Javier is chasing a future through education while his younger brother, Alex, slips into gang life. When a shady businessman named George Jones shows up, everything changes.

A burner phone, buried secrets, and a fight for survival push Javier into a dangerous world he never asked for. The story packs tension, real-world issues, and tough choices. While the pacing drags at times with too much detail, the emotional depth and high stakes keep it gripping.

Dark, intense, and thought-provoking. Not a light read, but a worthwhile one.

[Karen Siddall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goals clash as a young man faces unseen adversaries in this dark and gritty thriller.

Gone to Ground is the clever new thriller by Morgan Hatch that pits a gifted high school senior from the wrong side of town against the wealthy, privileged, and politically connected over the fate of his neighborhood and the homeless denizens of an eyesore section of land. A large piece of undeveloped real estate in East LA is eyed as the perfect location for the terminal for the new high-speed rail project under construction, and monied and politically savvy backers rush to take possession. Unfortunately, it is also the site of a large, long-established, and well-entrenched homeless encampment.

High school senior Javier Jimenez has always had his younger brother Alex’s back, but lately, he’s been replaced in his brother’s esteem by the fast-talking minions involved with the local gang, Denker Street. Already burdened by bills and helping to keep their overwhelmed mother’s head above water, he’s tried to talk Alex off the path he’s going down, but to no avail.

Underdog Javier is an unusual protagonist but a worthy adversary in this complex tale of divergent storylines. He’s got so much going against him, yet he’s on a successful road leading to college and a bright future afterwards, especially considering his natural financial proficiency. He’s an engaging character, soon to face difficult choices as things get dark and gritty, and you can’t help but root for him.

I really liked how the author structured the plot, developing several seemingly unconnected storylines at the start. Each, in itself, is an intriguing thread, and I was surprised by the way they all eventually converged to create the larger story.

GONE TO GROUND is book one of a planned trilogy, so I am already anticipating more from this author. I recommend this book to readers of mysteries and thrillers, especially those who enjoy a grittier tale or one set in Los Angeles but away from the bright lights, glitz, and glam.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.

[T.G. Wolff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground is an urban thriller. College bound Javier Jiminez is juggling life in one of Los Angeles’s toughest neighborhoods, Barrio Horseshoe, better known as the Shoe. He divides his time between friends, AP classes, keeping his younger brother out of a gang, and working for his half-sister’s tow company. While checking in a tow, Javier discovers a gun and a burner phone. The phone comes to life, kicking off events that will change the Shoe forever.

Bottom line: Gone to Ground is for you if you like everyman heroes who are a pain in the bad guys ass.

At its roots, GONE TO GROUND is a story about money. George Jones is a developer, but of neighborhoods, not properties. He methodically finds areas that are economically depressed with largely immigrant populations and actively works to destroy property values and drive out residents. His plan is to re-route the oft talked about bullet train the Shoe while redeveloping the neighborhood from the ground up into Los Angeles’s next hot spot. Javier Jiminez is a good kid with a talent for numbers. College is his ticket out of the Shoe. But he’s too smart not to put two and two together as tragedy after tragedy hit his neighborhood. He’s a teen, an immigrant with few connections and fewer that he trusts. He steps in to the role of disruptor, a mouse facing off with a lion.

GONE TO GROUND is listed as an urban thriller by the author and crime fiction on amazon. This story does cross subgenres in a way that gives it broad appeal to fans of psychological thrillers, urban crime, conspiracy, and follow-along story telling. The thriller element contains intellectual chess tactics rather than physical chases. The urban crime element comes from Javier’s brother’s slide into the Denker gang. Conspiracy is lead by George Jones with tentacles into the various levels of politics. It is a follow-along because there is no way to guess where this one is going.

Javier Jiminez is a hero you both like and cheer for. He has nothing going for him at the start and could easily have not acted. When the losses become real, they also become personal. One of the most likable things about Javier is he has no idea what he’s doing. Hatch does an excellent job of sharing what Javier feels with us—his fear, his outrage, his determination, his selflessness.

George Jones is an excellent bad guy. You hate him almost from the first time you meet him. He is smart, decisive, and arrogant with a “lord of the world” attitude all under a veil of sophistication. We “know” Jones through his outward actions rather than his inner decisioning making, perhaps this makes him a less sympathetic character, but I doubt it. Jones is just the kind of bad the wealthy love to invest in.

Everyone else in the ensemble fit somewhere in the spectrum between Javier and Jones. We see the good, hardworking people of the Shoe’s tight knit community. We see how easy it is for a grieving boy to be pulled into the gang life, turning away from his family. We see the brilliant fringe characters whose less-than-scrupulous skills Javier relies on. We see the political characters whose actions are driven by the trajectory of their own careers. We see the upper echelon business leaders whose own deceptive practices make them vulnerable to Jones’ manipulation. Hatch does an excellent job of succinctly presenting these characters, each of whom would be capable of being a hero (or anti-hero) in their own story.

GONE TO GROUND has a deliberate pacing. While you can see the conflict arising, you do not have a sense of the direction it will go. I often struggle with stories with this pacing but found myself so vested in Javier that I kept turning the pages, reading the book in two long sessions. If you are a fan of fast paced books, I encourage you to give GONE TO GROUND a try…and just be patient.

Standing at the end looking to the front, I have practically nothing to pick on. Perhaps it is because we see both Javier and Jones first-hand, but the events, actions, and reactions all make sense. Jones’ goals are crystal clear. Javier’s are less defined but then he’s figuring it out as he goes along.

One of the most striking points of this book is the naked reflection of ourselves in reaction to events—specifically how easy we are to manipulate, including turning on people and institutions we have years long personal knowledge of. In one scene, Jones targets the only grocery store in the Shoe by starting a sophisticated scheme that says the store is turning over security footage to ICE. Fueled by uniformed media coverage and distrust of the federal government, in less than a day, the store is gone, without rebuttal, investigation, or evidence. A small group of people, who shopped there one day and burned it to the next, thought they were standing up for themselves when they really were manipulated to acting against their own best interest. It was a hard scene to read.

GONE TO GROUND is a gritty and poignant telling of an ordinary man disrupting the machine. It is absolutely worth a read.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground is an exciting debut novel by Morgan Hatch. This eye-opening contemporary urban political thriller focuses on the everyday lives of people in a working-class neighborhood that’s being targeted for revitalization.

Javier is an excellent student, a high-school senior with his sights set on college in a few short months. He lives with his mama and his younger brother, 13-year-old Alex. Mama is the glue of the family, but she’s overworked and underappreciated, and the hours she puts in at the slaughterhouse seem barely enough to make ends meet. As the oldest, Javier does what he can to take care of the family, but he’s a kid himself. He balances school and work and looking after his little brother. He’s worried about Alex, who’s being groomed by the local gang. Javier’s attempts to intervene in Alex’s descent put a strain on their relationship and cause Alex to withdraw from the family even more.

Meanwhile, political and real estate interests are orchestrating redevelopment and infrastructure projects to gentrify the neighborhood. A series of seemingly random disruptions follows, including environmental regulations around a protected species, and a mysterious redirection of water causing a flood that destroys Dogtown, an encampment inhabited by the unhoused people in the area. There are also increased inspection violations and safety concerns at Denker Gardens, which result in the demolition of the low-income housing complex. How random can these events be when each destructive action is followed by immediate redevelopment efforts? Javier asks the same question when he stumbles on a clue at work one day, and he starts to put together what’s really going on.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It’s not in-your-face, non-stop adrenaline-inducing action. It’s more like methodical, controlled chaos with the tension building over time. As I was reading, I kept thinking about the frog in the pot metaphor, and sure enough, Javier uses it to explain how gangs recruit their members! To which Alex replies (by the way):

Sucks to be a frog.

Oh, Alex. You are the frog! But it’s not just the gang activity. It’s the politicians, the developers, the destruction, the desperation of never quite getting ahead. The absurdity of the way people are treated and discarded is disturbing. This is such a timely story, bringing issues to light that mirror real-world events happening daily all around us, and makes for a story that keeps you hooked and keeps you reading, out of curiosity (or incredulity).

To me, the story shines through its characters. Javier and Alex add the human element. Javier just wants to do the right thing, while Alex just wants to fit in somewhere. Both are crying for help in different ways. I rooted for them the whole way through, even though there were times I just wanted to strangle Alex for the way he treats his mother and brother. The antagonist, George Jones, is a different case altogether. He is evil to his core, and someone readers will absolutely love to hate. He doesn’t have an empathetic bone in his body, and ultimately, his indifference is what pushed me over the edge. A full supporting cast rounds things out, and it’s this contrast in personalities that great characterization does for a story.

I forgot this was a debut novel until I sat down to write this review. Hatch does an impressive job with his entry into the literary world. The writing is sharp and on point. It shocks without being just empty drama. The most important thing, though, is that Hatch trusts his readers. This is big. It’s so tempting to be heavy-handed in explaining things, which can actually get in the way of the story.

Gone to Ground is (ahem) a groundbreaking story that ticks all the boxes for me. Readers who enjoy socially conscious urban thrillers will find it a story they won’t soon forget. I look forward to seeing what Hatch does next.

[Readers' Choice Book Awards · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping, suspense novel set in the streets of LA, and an unflinching exploration of poverty and structural inequality.

Javier Jimenez, a first-generation Mexican immigrant living in Los Angeles, has a bright future. He is excelling at East Valley High School, and hopes to get a scholarship to attend UCLA. One condition of the scholarship is that he does not get into trouble with law enforcement. His thirteen year old younger brother, Alex, has taken a different path in life, mixing with street gangs and drug dealers. When Alex is arrested, the police contact Javier to see if he can persuade Alex to assist them in their investigations. If Alex refuses to help, he risks juvenile detention and could put Javier’s scholarship in jeopardy. As Javier attempts to steer his brother away from the criminal gangs, the two brothers come to physical blows.

Javier finds a burner phone while working at his half-sisters car-recovery business. The car was involved in a hit and run, and the phone belongs to George Jones, a businessman with big plans to re-develop their run-down neighborhood. But, when Javier notices pictures and odd messages on the phone, he becomes dubious of George’s motives. He suspects George’s involvement in several local murders and a number of “natural” disasters. The phone is handed back to George, but when Javier steals the phone to find evidence of corruption and criminality, he becomes George’s next target. As Javier does everything he can to protect his little brother, he is unwittingly drawn into the murky underground world of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Javier has a target on his back and George will stop at nothing to achieve his goal.

Gone to Ground is a gripping, suspense novel by author Morgan Hatch. The book follows two first generation immigrant brothers, as they navigate starkly different paths in life. While one brother sees a way out of the neighbourhood through education, the other brother has other ideas. Set in a rundown neighbourhood of LA, this is a gritty, fast-paced novel, full of twists and turns. Hatch presents a vivid picture of their lives, and the difficult choices they make in an unequal society. In a parallel story, the local community is destroyed by an unscrupulous entrepreneur for financial gain. The novel reflects the struggles faced by many people in the forgotten corners of our big cities.

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Los Angeles is the scene. Javier Jimenez is on the verge of heading to college, and he fully expects to do well there. He has the brains and the motivation, but he’s disheartened sometimes when he thinks about his brother, Alex, who is heading in the opposite direction. Alex hears the call of the streets, and it’s enticing. Meanwhile, both brothers are about to be introduced to pure evil in the form of George Jones, whose plans for “urban renewal” involve displacing longtime neighborhood residents and causing chaos. Can Javier outwit Jones and thwart his plans? And what is to be Alex’s fate?

Gone to Ground, by Morgan Hatch, is a suspense novel that also integrates elements from other genres. The Los Angeles backdrop may remind some readers of the series of Harry Bosch books by Michael Connelly, while George Jones’ plans are also somewhat reminiscent of Brad Wesley’s in the cult classic Roadhouse.

The action is written in the third person and mainly sticks with Javier. He’s clearly the story’s moral compass, an intelligent, thoughtful young man who is distraught when he realizes how little he can do to save his brother. Alex is Javier’s polar opposite, disinclined to take school seriously. At the same time, he’s unable to see the danger he’s attracting, particularly as it relates to Denker Street, one of the many gangs operating in the LA area.

As the tension quickly increases and the stakes rise, readers are treated to a master class in character development from Hatch. He could have easily made our antagonist, George Jones, one dimensional. Instead, he humanizes him, while simultaneously making clear the contempt Jones has for the individuals he means to displace. Urban development and gentrification, always hot button topics, are brought to the forefront. As a result, this writing seems timely.

Even though some aspects of Jones’ plans are ludicrous and the potboiler nature of this type of writing might not appeal to every reader, there are plenty of payoffs that make this literary endeavor worthwhile. This is genre fiction done well. It stays in its lane, features compelling, believable characters, and only gets stronger before the final, white-knuckled crescendo.

[M. Book reveiwers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is a suspenseful and emotional story set in the streets of Los Angeles. It follows two brothers, Javier and Alex Jimenez, who are both heading in completely different directions in life. Javier is a hardworking high school senior with dreams of going to college, while Alex is getting pulled deeper into the world of street gangs. Their lives take a dangerous turn when a man named George Jones arrives with his plan to flip their entire neighborhood for profit. What looks like a project of urban development soon turns into a dark web of corruption, violence, and loss.

As the story unfolds, Javier finds himself in the middle of chaos. His brother is in trouble with the gang called Denker Street, and when bodies start showing up, Javier realizes things are far worse than he thought. He accidentally comes across a burner phone belonging to George Jones, which contains proof of crimes and shady deals. From that moment, Javier becomes a target. He is forced to make choices between saving his brother, protecting his own future, and exposing the truth. Every chapter adds tension as Javier struggles to survive while trying to hold his family together.

The book gives a strong picture of life in poor neighborhoods and how easily dreams can be destroyed by power and greed. Morgan Hatch writes about family love, loyalty, and survival with honesty. The brotherly bond between Javier and Alex feels very real. It shows how one person can try so hard to save another, even when the world keeps pushing them down. The author also touches on social issues like poverty, inequality, and gentrification, which make the story feel close to real life.

I highly recommend Gone to Ground to readers who like crime, suspense, and emotional family stories. It’s not just about action it’s about choices, consequences, and love between brothers. The story feels real, the characters are strong, and it keeps you thinking long after you finish. This is a powerful start to a new trilogy, and I’m excited to see what happens next in Javier’s life. If you enjoy realistic thrillers with heart, this book is a must-read.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground, by Morgan Hatch, is an intricate tale of life on the edge, weaving together the lives of a high school student navigating familial and community pressures, a political operative balancing ambition and scandal, and shadowy figures pulling strings behind the scenes. Set against the gritty backdrop of East San Fernando Valley, the story unfolds through sharp prose and a cast of characters as diverse as the urban sprawl they inhabit. From Javier’s fraught attempts to keep his younger brother Alex from the clutches of gang life, to the machinations of power players like Jones, the novel paints a vivid and unflinching portrait of contemporary struggles.

Hatch’s writing is a highlight of this novel. The dialogue feels so real you can almost hear it echoing through a high school hallway. The humor is dry but frequent, as seen in moments like Javier’s sardonic observations about his economics teacher, Mr. Patel, who “recaps markers more than he teaches.” Jones, the principal antagonist, is a chillingly effective character. His calculated ruthlessness feels simultaneously inhuman and disturbingly relatable, making him a formidable force. Despite the overwhelming odds, Javier and Gio—an especially standout character—refuse to back down. Their determination and grit resonate deeply, keeping readers invested and rooting for their success.

Family loyalty versus personal ambition is a recurring theme, as Javier sacrifices his own future to protect Alex, whose flirtation with gang life is portrayed with chilling realism. The journey is harrowing, and the struggle often feels insurmountable, yet the emotional stakes are what drive the story forward. Readers are drawn into the desperate hope that the characters will prevail. Gone To Ground is a story that lingers long after the final page.

Gone to Ground is an engrossing read for anyone who appreciates layered storytelling with heart and edge. It’s a gritty, honest look at life in Los Angeles that doesn’t flinch from the darker realities but also finds moments of hope and resilience.

[Heena Rathore Rathore-Pardeshi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is a bold, razor-sharp novel that dives headfirst into the urban sprawl of Los Angeles and never once comes up for air. As a writer and editor, I found myself appreciating not just the story’s complexity but the control with which author Hatch moves between perspectives, timelines, and characters. It’s dense but never bloated, gritty but with a heart that pulses beneath the asphalt.

The story follows Javier, a high school senior doing his best to keep his little brother Alex from falling into the gravitational pull of gang life in the San Fernando Valley. What begins as a familiar tale of familial loyalty quickly expands into a high-stakes political and financial thriller, complete with corporate sabotage, environmental scandal, and cold-blooded real estate warfare. The threads are numerous, but author Hatch pulls them taut with precision.

What I particularly loved was the author's ear for dialogue and his eye for detail. Whether it’s a classroom filled with half-asleep teens or a power-lunch between political sharks, the writing is immersive and confidently observant. Characters like Betzaida—the tough, queer tow truck operator and half-sister to Javier—leap off the page with authenticity. And George Jones, the book’s Machiavellian fixer, is a villain you love to hate, dripping with charm and menace.

The pacing is deliberate, and that’s the one reason I’m giving this 4 stars instead of 5. Some narrative detours, while insightful, felt slightly indulgent and slowed the momentum during otherwise taut sequences. But it’s a small price to pay for the scope and ambition of what author Hatch accomplishes.

Gone to Ground isn’t just about a city, it’s about the people hanging on to their dignity as the ground shifts beneath them. It’s a book that challenges, informs, and, most importantly, feels alive. Highly recommended for fans of Don Winslow, George Pelecanos, and Walter Mosley.

[Cayla Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story explores the intersection of community, corruption, and consequence through a richly woven narrative. Hatch paints a vivid picture of family and city caught between survival and reinvention, where change often comes at a dangerous cost. At its heart, the novel follows a young protagonist navigating the pressures of family, loyalty, and survival in a neighborhood facing both visible and hidden threats. As the story unfolds, the stakes grow increasingly complex, drawing readers into a wider web of institutional power plays, economic ambition, and high-stakes manipulation. The tension is slow-building yet palpable, creating a sense of unease that carries through the chapters. Hatch writes with precision and emotional clarity, crafting vivid scenes that immerse the reader in both the texture of daily life and the broader socio-political forces at play. The prose is sharp, atmospheric, and intelligent, with a strong sense of place and character. “Gone to Ground” seamlessly connects street-level realism with larger systemic issues. The narrative is engaging and thought-provoking, offering readers both a gripping plot and a nuanced exploration of power, community, and personal agency. It speaks to the silent forces shaping neighborhoods, and how ordinary lives are affected by decisions made far from their reach. This is a novel well-suited for readers who appreciate smart, socially conscious fiction with thriller elements. Hatch delivers a story that is riveting and a timely reflection on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the resilience of those caught in its wake. A powerful and timely read. “Gone to Ground” is both a literary achievement and a call to examine the systems that shape our cities and lives.

[Mansi Pund · Rating 4 out of 5]

Morgan Hatch’s “Gone to Ground,” weaves a gripping, multi-layered narrative set in a working-class neighborhood in Los Angeles. At its heart is Javier Jimenez, a high school senior trying to keep his younger brother from slipping into gang life. Meanwhile, a ruthless fixer launches a covert scheme to destroy the neighborhood for profit. But when a mysterious crash leads Javier to a burner phone with dangerous contents, Javier finds himself pulled into something far bigger, and far darker than he ever imagined. Hatch’s novel is taut, timely, and full of quiet power. With sharp writing and an eye for the unspoken forces shaping urban life, he explores how ordinary people are swept up in systems far beyond their control. Hatch’s portrayal of life in “the Shoe” is rich with cultural texture and lived-in authenticity. The story’s emotional depth sneaks up on you, driven by raw, believable characters and moments that ache with truth. While the plot moves fast, it’s the stillness between the action that lingers. The only shortcoming is the antagonist, George Jones, whose presence, though powerful, feels more like a calculated force than a fully developed character. While his actions drive much of the plot, his character remains largely enigmatic, like a cold, calculated force rather than a human with personal motivations. A well-developed villain can elevate the stakes and deepen the thematic contrast, which this otherwise strong novel only brushes against. Still, “Gone to Ground” is more than a story of survival or corruption. It’s about loyalty, loss, and what it means to hold your ground when everything around you is falling apart. The book doesn’t offer neat resolutions, but it will stay with you long after you finish. A compelling, confident debut.

[Ryan and Sara Wendt · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this fast-paced and poignant novel, Javier and Alex Jimenez are on two separate paths in life. Javier is a scholastic student, while Alex, on the other hand, is not. Alex is a bit misguided in his behavior. He associates with the wrong crowd. However, that doesn’t mean that each of Javier's and Alex’s own worlds will never collide.

In Morgan Hatch’s book Gone to Ground, he takes the reader on an adventure that proves otherwise. Throughout Hatch’s book, there are plenty of twists and turns where both brothers find themselves in the same boat. With that said, Gone to Ground is full of page-turning action-packed scenes.

Morgan Hatch’s book will keep the reader engaged from beginning to end. The plot in this book is not boring! It’s like the equivalent of going on a day-long adventure in an amusement park and never having a dull moment. Hatch knows how to keep the reader engaged in his writing. Speaking of writing, Morgan Hatch is a brilliant writer! He knows how to hook the reader’s attention throughout his book. His masterful use of descriptive words in his writing will keep the reader’s attention, too. You may find yourself reading Hatch’s book in one full sitting as a result.

Another feature of the book I enjoyed was the characters. My favorite character was Javier. He was a thoughtful character throughout the book. Unlike his brother, Javier seems to care for others throughout the book. Through Javier’s virtuous traits, I saw myself.

Gone to Ground is a very thoughtful novel full of action-packed suspense and urban renewal. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to read a thoughtful fiction book. You will not be disappointed!

[Renae Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What initially attracted me to this book was its cover and title, which piqued my curiosity. While the exterior captures your attention, it's the content that truly matters, and this book keeps you intrigued from start to finish.

The story revolves around Javier, a perceptive and promising student. He has taken on the role of his family's anchor, looking after his brother, Alex, and assisting his sister with her business matters. However, trouble is brewing in the neighborhood, threatening not only his brother's future and well-being but also entangling his sister's business, drawing Javier into the conflict. With increasing tensions, he must make destiny-shifting decisions.

The novel's greatest strength lies in its masterful character development. Javier exists in a world so vibrant and textured that when he navigates his neighborhood, confronts family obligations, or faces down enemies, we can't help but become invested in his journey. The narrative tension builds organically, layer upon layer, while simultaneously revealing the antagonists' motivations with chilling clarity. Watching these opposing forces—Javier's determination against his enemies' calculated brutality—creates a psychological chess match that kept me turning pages.

I also valued the use of cultural colloquial expressions throughout the story, as they provided a rich context and enhanced its authenticity, which is crucial for a narrative like this that centers on a character's connection to their neighborhood and family. For those who enjoy a compelling political crime thriller with a focus on family and the bonds that unite, this book is an excellent choice and well worth the read.

[Moná · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Gone to Ground," author Morgan Hatch introduces the protagonists, Javier and Alex Jimenez, and how these brothers are total opposites of each other. While one's main focus is embracing the "brother's keeper" role, the other is susceptible to all kinds of trouble. Unfortunately, the type of trouble that shows up usually can jeopardize the lives of people you care about, and then options of maneuvering smartly begin to kick in. Then there's George Jones, some would have said he is beyond evil, which many others would have to agree with. The unspeakable things this man has done, who knows what he is not capable of doing? Although he thinks he's helping out the Shoe community, it's the bad business practices that cause ripples for people. From removing individuals that got in his way to conning people out of their bread and butter, calling him evil would be an understatement.

This is such an action-based book, including an amazing storyline that grasps the reader's attention from the first page. The author managed to invoke emotions throughout the story that tug on heartstrings. I felt like an additional character in the story at how close I felt to Javier as he did his very best in every situation he found himself in. The level of resilience this individual had is admirable. The relationship between Javier and Alex catapults to a new meaning of older and younger brother. At the thought of Javier seeking a better life for them, and becoming a harder task than I imagined, I give kudos for not giving up. I enjoyed reading this book as it offers a lot of action, drama, history, political angles, business, and everything else in between.

[Arizona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch

Morgan Hatch’s Gone to Ground opens with an arresting blend of sharp realism and quiet melancholy. From the very first scene Javier slumped in his AP Economics class, half-watching his younger brother across the street the novel grounds us in a world where ordinary lives teeter on the edge of moral and economic collapse. Hatch writes with a piercing eye for detail: the dust-choked lots, the hum of idling engines, and the weary rhythms of those hustling to stay afloat. It’s a story not of grand heroics, but of small salvations and the weight of survival.

Javier, caught between duty and disillusionment, emerges as a deeply human figure. He drifts through a landscape scarred by debt, loss, and quiet desperation where even dreams are collateral. Through him, Hatch explores the limits of ambition in a world where opportunities dry up faster than the desert heat. The prose, restrained yet vivid, captures the ache of wanting more when the world gives you less.

What makes Gone to Ground remarkable is its emotional honesty. The novel never resorts to sentimentality; instead, it finds beauty in grit and dignity in struggle. Every character whether it’s the stoic Lester, the ever-resourceful Betzaida, or the unseen figures on the other end of a loan application feels alive with contradiction and longing.

Hatch’s debut is both tender and unflinching, a portrait of working-class endurance rendered with uncommon empathy. Gone to Ground lingers long after the final page, not because it shouts, but because it listens to the quiet heartbreak of ordinary lives trying, against all odds, to rise.

[Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Gone to Ground” is one of those stories that sticks with you. It begins with what seems like a grounded coming-of-age narrative, with Javier, a high school student in L.A.’s San Fernando Valley, trying to keep his younger brother from sliding into gang life. But the story quickly broadens into something far more complex, pulling in themes of political manipulation, systemic neglect, and a potential disaster that might not be as accidental as it seems.

What stood out most to me were the layered, believable characters. Javier’s internal burden, protecting his family, navigating the pressures of school, work, and survival, is portrayed with nuance. The family dynamic, especially with a mother who works herself to exhaustion, feels painfully real. The setting is vivid and specific, full of cultural detail, neighborhood tensions, and unspoken rules. The writing captures the rhythms of everyday life in a working-class immigrant community without leaning on cliché.

What surprised me was how naturally the story shifts from local to large-scale. The political and corporate intrigue doesn’t feel forced, it grows organically from the characters’ lives. The pacing holds steady, with a mounting sense of tension that pays off. There’s a slow-burn suspense here, but it’s matched by emotional depth and sharp social observation.

If you’re drawn to novels that balance personal stakes with broader societal critique, Gone to Ground delivers. It’s thoughtful, unsettling, and sharply observed, a reminder that what lies beneath the surface often shapes everything above it.

[elena j. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is a sharp, urgent urban thriller that captures the collision between ambition, gentrification, family loyalty, and street-level danger with rare clarity. Set against the restless energy of Los Angeles, the novel moves fast, but never loses sight of the human cost of the forces tearing its characters apart.

Javier Jimenez is a compelling center for the story. He’s smart, hopeful, and trying to escape the gravity of his surroundings, while his brother Alex is drifting in the opposite direction. That emotional split gives the novel its real tension. The thriller elements matter, but what stays with you is the question of whether two brothers can survive the same storm when they’re standing on opposite sides of it.

The antagonist’s vision of “flipping zip codes” is chilling precisely because it feels plausible. Gone to Ground doesn’t rely on cartoon villains or abstract conspiracies. It shows how power, money, and indifference can be just as destructive as any weapon, and often far more invisible.

Fast-paced without being shallow, and socially aware without being preachy, this is a thriller that works on multiple levels. It’s about survival, yes, but also about identity, displacement, and what it costs to keep your integrity when everything around you is being bought, sold, or burned down. Gone to Ground is gripping, timely, and emotionally grounded the kind of story that entertains while quietly telling the truth about the world it reflects.

[Claudia A · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a quietly powerful and emotionally charged thriller that explores memory, identity, and survival through the eyes of Javier, a young immigrant navigating a crumbling Los Angeles neighborhood and a fractured family history. The city’s decay mirrors the protagonist’s inner turmoil, transforming the urban landscape into a haunting reflection of lost innocence and cultural displacement. What was once a refuge for him and his brother now stands as a symbol of grief, absence, and the harsh realities of growing up in a world increasingly shaped by violence and change.

The novel weaves together themes of survival, family loyalty, identity, urban decay, systemic corruption, and the painful trials of coming of age in a community under siege. Hatch’s prose combines vivid detail with emotional depth, making the city more than just a backdrop, it breathes, broods, and bears witness to the characters’ fading hopes and mounting despair. Through sharp, sensory detail, the narrative captures the silence of loss, the tensions within family bonds, and the fragile space between belonging and alienation.

Though largely effective, the writing occasionally becomes dense, and some transitions, particularly those involving secondary characters, could benefit from greater clarity and focus. “Gone to Ground” is well-suited for readers who appreciate gripping, character-driven thrillers enriched with social commentary, immigrant identity, and emotional resonance.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground follows two brothers, Javier and Alex Jimenez, whose lives take drastically different turns in a neighborhood on the brink of chaos. Javier is focused on his future, determined to make it to college, while Alex becomes entangled with the dangerous Denker Street gang. Their world begins to unravel when George Jones, a manipulative and ruthless man with a grand but destructive plan for urban “renewal,” sets his scheme into motion. What begins as a local power struggle quickly spirals into a dark tale of corruption, survival, and the devastating cost of ambition.

The novel stands out for its powerful character portrayals and tense, cinematic storytelling. George Jones is an unforgettable villain whose chilling ambition drives much of the suspense. The relationship between Javier and Alex adds an emotional depth that makes the story more than just a thriller—it becomes a study of family, loyalty, and the thin line between good and evil. The writing vividly captures the atmosphere of a city in turmoil, making readers feel every heartbeat of the danger surrounding the characters.

This book offers not only action and intrigue but also a reflection on how ambition and power can destroy lives. Readers who appreciate stories about brotherhood, urban struggle, and survival against impossible odds will find Denker Street Blues both thrilling and thought-provoking. It is a story that stays with you long after the final page.

[Rabeesa Arveen · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, a big thank-you to Morgan Hatch for giving me the opportunity to read this powerful novel. His writing is precise, emotionally intelligent, and deeply grounded in the reality of urban life. His ability to create vivid characters and bring social issues to light through storytelling is truly impressive.
Gone to Ground is a gripping and emotionally charged novel set in Los Angeles, following a young man named Javier as he tries to protect his younger brother from the pull of street life, only to find himself caught in a much larger web of political corruption, displacement, and quiet violence.
What I appreciated most is how Hatch balances the personal with the political. The book doesn’t rely on cheap twists or over-the-top drama. Instead, it builds tension slowly and meaningfully. Every scene feels real, and every character, whether friend, foe, or something in between, is written with nuance.
The story explores how systems of power affect everyday lives, but it never loses sight of its emotional core. Javier’s relationships with his family, his friends, and even himself are what make the novel hit so hard. Without giving anything away, the final chapters are powerful and haunting. They left me thinking about the story and the real-life issues it reflects long after I turned the last page.
Hatch's writing is layered with meaning. He captures the rhythms of street life, the mechanics of political power, and the tension between survival and surrender with remarkable precision. His use of detail is both literary and cinematic you can see, hear, and feel every corner of the world he’s created. Dialogue is natural and sharp, and the inner thoughts of his characters feel lived-in, not written.
The pacing is deliberate, and for good reason. Hatch doesn't rush to deliver twists; instead, he lets the tension simmer. As a result, when moments of violence, confrontation, or emotional rupture arrive, they land with real weight. The book is not about spectacle. It’s about consequence.

[Megan Brame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Morgan Hatch's Gone to Ground follows Javier Jimenez, a Mexican American high school senior whose plans for college are about to get derailed by a city-wide conspiracy. His brother, Alex, is already headed down a dangerous path, and neither sibling realizes the true scale of what's coming for their neighborhood.

The real trouble begins with George Jones, a ruthless figure with a chilling vision of "urban renewal." His plan isn't about renovation, but engineered disasters and widespread civil unrest. Meanwhile, the feud between Javier and Alex intensifies, pushing Alex deeper into the clutches of the Denker Street gang. As the body count rises, Javier discovers he's become a target himself, forcing him to literally "go to ground" to survive.

Hatch crafts a narrative rich with action and explores compelling themes like family loyalty and the fight against gentrification. While the extensive details of Jones's elaborate scheme can feel a bit overwhelming at times, occasionally pulling back on the fast pace, the core tension remains strong. Javier's desperate struggle to save his brother and outmaneuver Jones, all while his own future hangs precariously, makes for a gripping read. This book will likely appeal to thriller fans who enjoy a deep dive into urban conflict and characters fighting for their community.

[Emily L · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hatch’s writing really pulled me in, it felt vivid and immersive, almost as if I was right there alongside the characters. The atmosphere is intense and suspenseful, and it keeps building throughout the story, making you eager to see how everything plays out between Javier and Alex.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is the contrast between the two brothers. Javier is trying to do the right thing, to support and protect Alex, but in doing so, he puts himself in serious danger. It creates a compelling dynamic and raises important questions: How far would you go to save someone you care about? And can Javier steer Alex away from a path that’s clearly leading toward trouble?
The novel explores powerful themes such as loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurry line between right and wrong, all while keeping the tension high. It’s a slower-paced read, but that works well here; the suspense builds gradually, adding to the intrigue and making the payoff more satisfying.
If you enjoy thrillers with emotional depth and characters you can really connect with, I’d definitely recommend this book. It’s a gripping story with a strong emotional core, and it keeps you thinking long after you’ve finished the last page.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is deeply set in the immigrant and street culture of LA . It got off to a bit of a rough start for me as I had no frame of reference for the locations mentioned. The plot did become more clear to me as the action progressed. There was a great deal of colloquial dialogue this northern elderly reader did not understand. I almost felt the characters were talking in a street code I did not know. An example is the flashing of deuces (2277/4003). I have no idea what that means.

There are two plot lines woven together, Javier trying to help his brother Alex and Javier being caught up in a crooked development scheme. Reading about Alex potentially getting caught up in a gang was heartbreaking. The actions in that development scheme were revealing. I have a feeling it was all too realistic. The plot moves along well as it follows both threads.

Hatch's writing is very descriptive, taking the reader into the action and tension involved. This is a good novel for readers who like one set firmly in a challenging culture and seen through the actions of a teen.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is one of those rare thrillers that feels both intensely real and disturbingly prophetic. From the first few pages, I was pulled into the grit and chaos of a neighborhood teetering on the edge, where ambition, desperation, and corruption collide in the most chilling ways.

The story follows two brothers, Javier and Alex, whose lives spiral in opposite directions just as the sinister George Jones begins to execute his twisted vision of “urban renewal.” The result is a tense, layered narrative that had me turning the pages with a knot in my stomach.

I loved how human this story feels. Javier’s internal struggle, torn between protecting his brother and saving himself, is heart-wrenching and Alex’s descent into gang life feels painfully authentic. George Jones, on the other hand, is the kind of villain who gets under your skin.

The way the author interweaves social commentary with gripping suspense makes the book much more than just a crime thriller; it’s a sharp reflection on greed, power, and survival in modern society.

By the time I finished, I was both shaken and impressed. Gone to Ground is fast-paced, emotionally charged and thought-provoking. If you love intelligent thrillers with depth, this one deserves a spot on your reading list.

[Almiria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Morgan Hatch’s action novel Gone to Ground is an urban thriller set in Panorama City, where the young protagonist Javier finds himself dragged into an unexpected web of crime, corruption, and community resistance.

Hatch’s terse, action-focused writing style matches the story’s sharp intensity and ruthlessness well. The author's style is cinematic in a way, with fast cuts between perspectives and scenes. While the story is very plot focused and character development seems a bit secondary, Javier himself feels very authentic, as we see him being torn between loyalty and survival. The book tackles serious themes such as gentrification, systemic racism, and immigration. I like that it also includes concerns about environmental justice, which is very timely right now. I found that the plot was a bit overcrowded at times. So much is happening and the point-of-view changes come so thick and fast that I felt a bit overwhelmed.

Gone to Ground is a gripping read that fans of action novels will enjoy. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy urban fiction, political thrillers, and socially conscious dramas.