What do you think?
Rate this book
LAPD Detective Tully Jarsdel #1
One Day You'll Burn
A body so badly burned that it could be mistaken for a movie prop...except for the smell. That's not something the LAPD finds lying on the street every day. And when Detective Tully Jarsdel is called to the scene, it's clear to him that something about the placement of the corpse is intentional, even ritualistic. Jarsdel's former career in academia seems to finally be coming in handy, rather than serving merely as material for jokes from his partner, Morales.
But nothing Jarsdel learned in school can prepare him for the deep evil behind this case, which appears to be as hopeless as it is violent. As Jarsdel and Morales attempt to settle their differences and uncover the motive behind the horrendous crime, they find themselves dragged into the underbelly of a city notorious for chewing up and spitting out anyone dumb enough to turn their back on survival.
But nothing Jarsdel learned in school can prepare him for the deep evil behind this case, which appears to be as hopeless as it is violent. As Jarsdel and Morales attempt to settle their differences and uncover the motive behind the horrendous crime, they find themselves dragged into the underbelly of a city notorious for chewing up and spitting out anyone dumb enough to turn their back on survival.
Audible Audio
First published February 4, 2020
240 people are currently reading
3103 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
December 10, 2019
ONE DAY YOU’LL BURN by Joseph Schneider is a different take on a contemporary police procedural set in the Los Angeles, California area. Rookie Detective Tully Jarsdel and his partner, Detective Oscar Morales work two murder cases as part of a new homicide squad. The first is that of a human body that was badly burned with the corpse left in a way that appears staged or ritualistic. The second case is one of a serial killer who couple’s dogs on their wedding day.
The novel is much more than a police procedural. Tully brings a unique perspective to his job. He is an ex-college history professor that was working on his PHD when he decided to change careers. It’s about loneliness even when surrounded by others. It’s about not fitting in with your colleagues even though you went through the same training regimen. It’s about depression. It’s about deciding to change careers and dealing with parents who feel you made a mistake. The story line also brings in a philosophical discussion on right and wrong.
Overall, this was unique and fresh. Tully and Morales are compelling characters that you can root for, but definitely have their own flaws and virtues. Their motivations seemed believable and well-drawn. Tully’s internal and external conflicts were well defined. The plot twists were believable, but unexpected with effective transitions. The author did a great job of world-building. For movie buffs, discussions of movies and movie props and posters come into the discussions in this story as well.
I enjoyed this well-written novel and recommend it to those that enjoy police procedurals with a twist. This is an excellent debut novel, and I look forward to reading Schneider’s next one.
Thanks to Shauneice Robinson with Poisoned Pen Press / Sourcebooks and Joseph Schneider for a physical ARC of this novel and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The novel is much more than a police procedural. Tully brings a unique perspective to his job. He is an ex-college history professor that was working on his PHD when he decided to change careers. It’s about loneliness even when surrounded by others. It’s about not fitting in with your colleagues even though you went through the same training regimen. It’s about depression. It’s about deciding to change careers and dealing with parents who feel you made a mistake. The story line also brings in a philosophical discussion on right and wrong.
Overall, this was unique and fresh. Tully and Morales are compelling characters that you can root for, but definitely have their own flaws and virtues. Their motivations seemed believable and well-drawn. Tully’s internal and external conflicts were well defined. The plot twists were believable, but unexpected with effective transitions. The author did a great job of world-building. For movie buffs, discussions of movies and movie props and posters come into the discussions in this story as well.
I enjoyed this well-written novel and recommend it to those that enjoy police procedurals with a twist. This is an excellent debut novel, and I look forward to reading Schneider’s next one.
Thanks to Shauneice Robinson with Poisoned Pen Press / Sourcebooks and Joseph Schneider for a physical ARC of this novel and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
March 2, 2024
I confess that in addition to being well-written, my favorite series usually features an oddball detective. Male or female, I’m happier when they are on the unique side of intriguing. I adore Inspector Detective Vera Stanhope, Agent Pendergast, Charlie Parker (and friends) and one of my newer acquaintances, Sheriff Kate Burkholder of Amish country.
Well, I’m happy to report that I have a new interesting lead character introduced in this first of several books in a newish series— the unlikely L.A. Detective Tully Jarsdel. A non-traditional homicide detective, Tully is a brilliant ex-history professor who has changed career tracks, much to the chagrin of his loving parents AND his colleagues.
While not the hardest mystery to solve, the author took his readers on a real adventure around West Hollywood. Lots of red herrings and unique characters, but I will say Do Not begin this book on a full stomach. It may have the honor of being one of the grossest crimes I’ve yet to read.
I enjoyed getting to know Tully — the guy may be brilliant but he’s definitely not a suave character. Precisely why I liked him— despite his draw backs (and let’s say I got a few good chuckles as he tries to meet women), he means well, but has yet to learn how to “read the room.”
We see him struggle with his partner, his family, a new girlfriend, serial dog killer, and a host of potential creepy suspects. Despite some of the gruesome and downright bizarre scenes (the ending was pretty tense), I’m looking forward to watching Tully turn into the great cop we see shades of in this first book.
(Reviewed 3/1/24)
Well, I’m happy to report that I have a new interesting lead character introduced in this first of several books in a newish series— the unlikely L.A. Detective Tully Jarsdel. A non-traditional homicide detective, Tully is a brilliant ex-history professor who has changed career tracks, much to the chagrin of his loving parents AND his colleagues.
While not the hardest mystery to solve, the author took his readers on a real adventure around West Hollywood. Lots of red herrings and unique characters, but I will say Do Not begin this book on a full stomach. It may have the honor of being one of the grossest crimes I’ve yet to read.
I enjoyed getting to know Tully — the guy may be brilliant but he’s definitely not a suave character. Precisely why I liked him— despite his draw backs (and let’s say I got a few good chuckles as he tries to meet women), he means well, but has yet to learn how to “read the room.”
We see him struggle with his partner, his family, a new girlfriend, serial dog killer, and a host of potential creepy suspects. Despite some of the gruesome and downright bizarre scenes (the ending was pretty tense), I’m looking forward to watching Tully turn into the great cop we see shades of in this first book.
(Reviewed 3/1/24)
February 4, 2020
One Day You’ll Burn is a modern-day police procedural set in the mean streets of Los Angeles. Smoothly written, it showcases the author’s intimate familiarity with Los Angeles and the dirty streets of Hollywood that give little hint of Tinseltown’s stories past. It all begins with a virtually unsolvable homicide evidencing a rather torturous brutal killing when a corpse is dumped by a holy shrine in Thai Town, one of the newer neighborhoods of East Hollywood. Instead of a grizzled veteran homicide detective, LAPD brass has paired genius rookies with experienced veterans so that the star of this police story is a newer detective, but one who is a former PHD candidate who has a wonky tendency to go all “Rain-man” on you. The story flowed right off the pages which seemed to melt in my hands.
November 5, 2019
Well, this was definitely a new twist and a refreshing one at that, as a History Professor turns Homicide Detective in L.A. I will admit that he left me stranded at times as he applied historial intellect to cases. Extremely interesting characters and overall a very good read. I will look forward to a continuation. Many thanks to Sourcebooks for providing me a copy and to Goodreads.
December 30, 2019
This debut novel from author Joseph Schneider is a gritty telling of two detectives in LA who are part of an elite new homicide squad which pairs a newer officer who demonstrates some superior intellect with an older, more experienced detective. The squad has shown some success with this new plan, but there are inherent problems and resentments that this brings. Some of these include the difficulty of the two main partners to create a positive working attitude because of the disparity in terms of how long it took each of them to achieve the status of detective. The other problem mentioned is more political in nature and is reflected in the attitude of supervisors. While these issues are referred to in the book, the tension that might be developed because of them is limited as little attention is given to this situation.
In this novel, the two main detectives are tasked with finding the murderer of a particularly gruesome murder that begins with the roasted corpse of the victim being dumped on the street in front of a Thai monument. Details of the murder, the description of the body, the method of the murder and the experience of dying in this way are all included at various parts of the book. In addition, there is another on-going investigation trying to uncover the identity of whoever is killing the pet dog of people on their wedding day. There is limited time spent on investigating this crime, and rather than being integrated in the investigator's activities throughout the book, is a puzzle that is presented with the solution intuited by one of the investigators. The identity of this criminal and solution of the dog murders follows the solution of the main murder and appears almost as an added appendix to the main story.
There were a number of issues that made this book a difficult one for me to read and enjoy. The primary characters were difficult to like with the intellectual detective being insecure and emotionally stunted, the older detective being resentful and resistant to developing a positive relationship with his partner. In addition, there was no one on the upper management level who showed any support for the two detectives or for the department, setting up the entire book to be read through the lens of adversarial relationships. This continued in the resentment the intellectual detective’s decision to become a police officer is that is displayed by his two gay dads.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, the people encountered during the investigation were also less than likeable. They were portrayed as scheming and/or fanatical people who were making a living by displaying the more bizarre aspects of Hollywood from wax museum chamber of horrors to a specialty film house that focused on showing graphic vintage horror movies.
This book may appeal to readers who prefer a grittier experience in their reading with some physical danger to the detectives added to create a more action oriented ending. My thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me an Advanced Digital Read copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this novel, the two main detectives are tasked with finding the murderer of a particularly gruesome murder that begins with the roasted corpse of the victim being dumped on the street in front of a Thai monument. Details of the murder, the description of the body, the method of the murder and the experience of dying in this way are all included at various parts of the book. In addition, there is another on-going investigation trying to uncover the identity of whoever is killing the pet dog of people on their wedding day. There is limited time spent on investigating this crime, and rather than being integrated in the investigator's activities throughout the book, is a puzzle that is presented with the solution intuited by one of the investigators. The identity of this criminal and solution of the dog murders follows the solution of the main murder and appears almost as an added appendix to the main story.
There were a number of issues that made this book a difficult one for me to read and enjoy. The primary characters were difficult to like with the intellectual detective being insecure and emotionally stunted, the older detective being resentful and resistant to developing a positive relationship with his partner. In addition, there was no one on the upper management level who showed any support for the two detectives or for the department, setting up the entire book to be read through the lens of adversarial relationships. This continued in the resentment the intellectual detective’s decision to become a police officer is that is displayed by his two gay dads.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, the people encountered during the investigation were also less than likeable. They were portrayed as scheming and/or fanatical people who were making a living by displaying the more bizarre aspects of Hollywood from wax museum chamber of horrors to a specialty film house that focused on showing graphic vintage horror movies.
This book may appeal to readers who prefer a grittier experience in their reading with some physical danger to the detectives added to create a more action oriented ending. My thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me an Advanced Digital Read copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2021
Protagonist is a college history professor turned LA Police detective which offers him unique insights in solving murders. Unfortunately his penchant for lecturing other cops (and readers) on topics completely unrelated to the bizarre murder case he's working renders him for me, a pedantic bore. Five star books to me are really just great stories told by interesting characters who's authors understand their role in the stories they craft is the entertainment of their readers.
April 11, 2020
Over the last four days and nothing but time on my hands, I've tried to read this book. Made it a little over 100 pages and I'm throwing in the towel.
I was pulled in initially but then instead of staying with the plot, the author created scenes where the main character can show his brilliance. I think the word of choice for many reviewers is pontificate. It seemed boring, needless and made me dislike the character. You know that person, the one at a dinner party who tries to illustrate his brilliance but leaves everyone else wishing the evening was over?
The thing with reading a book is you can just stop and walk away.
I was pulled in initially but then instead of staying with the plot, the author created scenes where the main character can show his brilliance. I think the word of choice for many reviewers is pontificate. It seemed boring, needless and made me dislike the character. You know that person, the one at a dinner party who tries to illustrate his brilliance but leaves everyone else wishing the evening was over?
The thing with reading a book is you can just stop and walk away.
February 4, 2020
3.5 STARS
Detective Tully Jarsdel is a rather unique character. The son of two dads, he disappointed them terribly when he left his job as a history teacher and became a law enforcement officer, and now a homicide detective. He's known by his mentor and colleagues as a 'brain' as he's one of the few who have a college degree. He's a little awkward, a bit of a social misfit .. but the one thing he is really good at is finding the bad guys.
He and his mentor/partner, Morales. are called to the scene of a victim so badly burned that the body doesn't even look human. He's been slowly cooked to death .. something no one has seen before.
Tully thinks the placement of the body is key .... but he is a party of one. He and Morales come to loggerheads on how to proceed when there's no motive, no witnesses, no clues.
Book Blurb: They find themselves dragged into the underbelly of a city notorious for chewing up and spitting out anyone dumb enough to turn their back on survival.
This is a debut novel, showcasing not only the characters, but the competing sides of Los Angeles.. which can be beautiful on one hand, the squalidness on the other. As Tully has a background in history, the book is filled with assorted lectures / information on any number of subjects. There are places that slowed down to a crawl in places and overall, I did not find this particularly thrilling or action packed. The author also exposes the family dynamics and how there is love ... but also a bit of anger and disappointment
Many thanks to the author / Poisoned Pen Press / Netgalley for the copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Detective Tully Jarsdel is a rather unique character. The son of two dads, he disappointed them terribly when he left his job as a history teacher and became a law enforcement officer, and now a homicide detective. He's known by his mentor and colleagues as a 'brain' as he's one of the few who have a college degree. He's a little awkward, a bit of a social misfit .. but the one thing he is really good at is finding the bad guys.
He and his mentor/partner, Morales. are called to the scene of a victim so badly burned that the body doesn't even look human. He's been slowly cooked to death .. something no one has seen before.
Tully thinks the placement of the body is key .... but he is a party of one. He and Morales come to loggerheads on how to proceed when there's no motive, no witnesses, no clues.
Book Blurb: They find themselves dragged into the underbelly of a city notorious for chewing up and spitting out anyone dumb enough to turn their back on survival.
This is a debut novel, showcasing not only the characters, but the competing sides of Los Angeles.. which can be beautiful on one hand, the squalidness on the other. As Tully has a background in history, the book is filled with assorted lectures / information on any number of subjects. There are places that slowed down to a crawl in places and overall, I did not find this particularly thrilling or action packed. The author also exposes the family dynamics and how there is love ... but also a bit of anger and disappointment
Many thanks to the author / Poisoned Pen Press / Netgalley for the copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 18, 2020
This one got me fired up right at the start with the discovery of a once-human crispy critter under a Thai pagoda in Hollywood. Called in on the case are LAPD Detective Marcus Tullius ("Tully") Jarsdel and his partner Morales. An ID is next to impossible (as it will remain for some time after the body cools off), but signs suggest it wasn't your average body dump. Rather, someone deliberately picked both the modus operandi and disposal site. That brings out Tully's professorial side; the son of two gay fathers, he left the halls of academia for the police ranks (to the total and continuing dismay of both his dads).
Meantime, the two partners have been trying unsuccessfully to learn who's behind the killing of several dogs - each of which bit the dust after biting into poisoned meat on their owners' wedding day. As part of the investigation, the single Tully meets Aleesa, one of those who lost a dog a while back (long enough ago for her to have lost her husband as well). She's a bit on the kooky side - but then so is Tully, who's fond of expounding on history and philosophy at the drop of a page or two. Truth is, I found that characteristic enjoyable, educational and fitting with his character, but I'll also say that my sweet husband - who loves police procedurals perhaps more than I do - wouldn't appreciate Tully's lengthy pontifications nearly as much as I did.
At any rate, Tully and Aleesa hit it off from the git-go, adding a bit of romance to the plot. Before long, the over-baked body is identified; seems he was a huxter who once tried to sell jars of "Hollywood Dirt" to Hollywood looky-loos. Later, Tully also finds evidence that ties the victim to an unsolved case under investigation by a different LAPD department, ruffling feathers of those who are less than thrilled to have Tully and Morales digging around.
Tully tries to put his brain to work on a motive that prompted the human pot roast (leading, hopefully, to the killer's apprehension); but the closer he and Morales get to the flame, the greater the chance one or both will get burned. Making matters worse, yet another couple's official coupling day is spoiled by the killing of their precious pet, leading Tully, almost in desperation, to suggest setting up a sting operation.
It all leads up to a suspenseful, fiery ending that certainly kept me turning pages (well, okay, swiping my Kindle screen) to the very last word. This is the first in a series, and while I didn't totally warm up to Tully (pun intended), his quirkiness and background make me eager to read the next one. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for providing me with an advance copy of this one.
Dare I say well done?
Meantime, the two partners have been trying unsuccessfully to learn who's behind the killing of several dogs - each of which bit the dust after biting into poisoned meat on their owners' wedding day. As part of the investigation, the single Tully meets Aleesa, one of those who lost a dog a while back (long enough ago for her to have lost her husband as well). She's a bit on the kooky side - but then so is Tully, who's fond of expounding on history and philosophy at the drop of a page or two. Truth is, I found that characteristic enjoyable, educational and fitting with his character, but I'll also say that my sweet husband - who loves police procedurals perhaps more than I do - wouldn't appreciate Tully's lengthy pontifications nearly as much as I did.
At any rate, Tully and Aleesa hit it off from the git-go, adding a bit of romance to the plot. Before long, the over-baked body is identified; seems he was a huxter who once tried to sell jars of "Hollywood Dirt" to Hollywood looky-loos. Later, Tully also finds evidence that ties the victim to an unsolved case under investigation by a different LAPD department, ruffling feathers of those who are less than thrilled to have Tully and Morales digging around.
Tully tries to put his brain to work on a motive that prompted the human pot roast (leading, hopefully, to the killer's apprehension); but the closer he and Morales get to the flame, the greater the chance one or both will get burned. Making matters worse, yet another couple's official coupling day is spoiled by the killing of their precious pet, leading Tully, almost in desperation, to suggest setting up a sting operation.
It all leads up to a suspenseful, fiery ending that certainly kept me turning pages (well, okay, swiping my Kindle screen) to the very last word. This is the first in a series, and while I didn't totally warm up to Tully (pun intended), his quirkiness and background make me eager to read the next one. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for providing me with an advance copy of this one.
Dare I say well done?
February 4, 2020
3.5*
If you like shows like Law & Order: SVU or Criminal Minds, then I would pick One Day You’ll Burn up. There are a few POV’s throughout the novel, but the main lead, Detective Tully Jarsdel is a scholar turned detective and he brings a unique analytical edge to the cases he and his partner, Morales, are trying to solve. This one is a bit graphic and violent, in many ways. But the graphic nature of the crimes and the empathy you have for the victims lends to the emotions that make the reader care and want these detectives to solve the case and catch the bad guys. It took a bit for me to truly invest in this story, but once I did I could not stop turning pages. Mystery, thrills, a dash of romance. This was a great first novel, and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Available now!
*ARC provided by Poisoned Pen Press through a Bookish First drawing*
If you like shows like Law & Order: SVU or Criminal Minds, then I would pick One Day You’ll Burn up. There are a few POV’s throughout the novel, but the main lead, Detective Tully Jarsdel is a scholar turned detective and he brings a unique analytical edge to the cases he and his partner, Morales, are trying to solve. This one is a bit graphic and violent, in many ways. But the graphic nature of the crimes and the empathy you have for the victims lends to the emotions that make the reader care and want these detectives to solve the case and catch the bad guys. It took a bit for me to truly invest in this story, but once I did I could not stop turning pages. Mystery, thrills, a dash of romance. This was a great first novel, and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Available now!
*ARC provided by Poisoned Pen Press through a Bookish First drawing*
May 22, 2020
What a hot mess. Start with a char-broiled body left in front of a pagoda in a Thai shopping area. Add two detectives, one a seasoned veteran, the other a fast-tracked rookie who dropped out of academia just short of an advanced degree and a career at the university. Stir in prodigious amounts of ancient history, Los Angeles history, and horror film history. Bring this to a boil with the introduction of the two gay professors who raised this angst-ridden young detective and are still trying to control his life. Simmer with a useless bunch of pontificating minor characters, a side story that serves no purpose and a doomed affair with a damaged damsel. But what about the burned body?
As you can see, I did not appreciate this novel. I give it a one-star just for the effort that the author had to exert to get this on the page.
I was sent an advanced copy of this book by Bookish First in exchange for an honest review. Sorry that I could not connect with this.
As you can see, I did not appreciate this novel. I give it a one-star just for the effort that the author had to exert to get this on the page.
I was sent an advanced copy of this book by Bookish First in exchange for an honest review. Sorry that I could not connect with this.
March 1, 2020
4.5. Wow! What a debut novel. Loved it. Can't wait for next in the series. Quite a refreshing take on the LA detective storyline. Schneider is now one of my faves.
December 9, 2019
What kind of individual would slow bake an adversary in an oven ... like a Thanksgiving turkey?
Joseph Schneider's debut novel is more than a police procedural ... shrouded in a noir atmosphere of a decadent Hollywood he portrays a cinematic narrative laced with multiple quirky and eclectic characters. .... this is a modern-day commentary on the nature of humankind. Naturally there are those who are innately evil and their darkness and mayhem is all pervasive. But, there are others, like our main protagonist, Detective Tully Jarsdel, whose goal is to seek out sanity and justice. He espouses a Zoroaster quote: "To be among those who renew the world .. to make the world progress toward perfection" .. as his purpose in life.
Tully is not your usual macho hero ... no way could he be mistaken for James Bond, MacGiver or even Harry Bosch ... but, he is sensitive and somewhat charming in an unobtrusive manner. As described by his reluctant partner, Morales: "He's six foot two, unimpressive, lanky and soft, with a schoolboy haircut and rose-pink cheeks, like he's just had his first kiss". Jarsdel is part of new elite Homicide Unit ... rising young stars fresh from earning their detective shield who are partnered with street-wise veterans. There is distrust and envy among the troops ... and not only behind his back but to his face there is disdain. Tully's backstory is unique ... he has two dads ... a product of the marriage of two gay Professors. He is told he looks like both ... and actually the result of sperm from Robert and the egg from Darius' sister. His fathers are heartbroken when Tully abandons his academia .. on the threshold of receiving his Ph.D. in history he quits to join the police academy. His fathers never miss an opportunity to point out their dissatisfaction. His police contemporaries continually chide him, even to his face ... based upon jealousy and envy , he is referred to as "the professor".
Tully along with his partner, Morales, are called to a grisly scene ... a "cooked" corpse was dumped at the foot of a Thai statue ... representing the Hindu god: Brahma ... and posed in ritualistic fashion ... which Tully feels is intentional and sending a warning to someone. Schneider weaves a refreshing noir narrative replete with colorful prose .. at times witty ... and steaming with eclectic characters. The adventure is twisted and culminates in an unexpected and heated denouement. I certainly look forward to the continued exploits of unassuming Tully Jarsdel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review. (readersremains.com)
Joseph Schneider's debut novel is more than a police procedural ... shrouded in a noir atmosphere of a decadent Hollywood he portrays a cinematic narrative laced with multiple quirky and eclectic characters. .... this is a modern-day commentary on the nature of humankind. Naturally there are those who are innately evil and their darkness and mayhem is all pervasive. But, there are others, like our main protagonist, Detective Tully Jarsdel, whose goal is to seek out sanity and justice. He espouses a Zoroaster quote: "To be among those who renew the world .. to make the world progress toward perfection" .. as his purpose in life.
Tully is not your usual macho hero ... no way could he be mistaken for James Bond, MacGiver or even Harry Bosch ... but, he is sensitive and somewhat charming in an unobtrusive manner. As described by his reluctant partner, Morales: "He's six foot two, unimpressive, lanky and soft, with a schoolboy haircut and rose-pink cheeks, like he's just had his first kiss". Jarsdel is part of new elite Homicide Unit ... rising young stars fresh from earning their detective shield who are partnered with street-wise veterans. There is distrust and envy among the troops ... and not only behind his back but to his face there is disdain. Tully's backstory is unique ... he has two dads ... a product of the marriage of two gay Professors. He is told he looks like both ... and actually the result of sperm from Robert and the egg from Darius' sister. His fathers are heartbroken when Tully abandons his academia .. on the threshold of receiving his Ph.D. in history he quits to join the police academy. His fathers never miss an opportunity to point out their dissatisfaction. His police contemporaries continually chide him, even to his face ... based upon jealousy and envy , he is referred to as "the professor".
Tully along with his partner, Morales, are called to a grisly scene ... a "cooked" corpse was dumped at the foot of a Thai statue ... representing the Hindu god: Brahma ... and posed in ritualistic fashion ... which Tully feels is intentional and sending a warning to someone. Schneider weaves a refreshing noir narrative replete with colorful prose .. at times witty ... and steaming with eclectic characters. The adventure is twisted and culminates in an unexpected and heated denouement. I certainly look forward to the continued exploits of unassuming Tully Jarsdel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review. (readersremains.com)
April 8, 2020
This was okay -I liked the LA setting -a favorite city of mine. But I didn't like the main character that much. And for me -mysteries - I like character driven stories. His 'shtick' is that he's almost a history phd - switched up careers to be a cop. I guess that is supposed to be unusual -but he's in his 20's so evaluating career paths didn't seem odd. But I get the impression that the author suggests that he's too intelligent to be just a cop. I will concede that it may not have been deliberate but it left a bad taste in my mouth. Also, he's kind of a jerk. He's pedantic and at times condescending -even in general conversation. Again, character driven mysteries for me and if I don't take to the character I don't care much for the story.
April 28, 2024
I'm glad I listened to this on audio because had I tried to eyeball read it I either would have skimmed large chunks or given up entirely. I get it, our main character is a former history PhD student, a major disappointment to his pretentious parents, turned cop - and to illustrate this the author takes readers down one rabbit hole lecture after another until I'm starting to think Tully is more savant than recovering doctoral candidate. It also slogs the pacing down to the point where I felt like it was all in there to beef up word count - further evident by the book featuring not one, but two cases - the mystery of the baked body left in Thai Town and a cold case about some sicko poisoning dogs on happy couples' wedding days. Then the history lectures and philosophizing lead way to a sensational ending straight out of a shlocky horror movie (which I guess I should have seen coming since the murder victim was baked to death...).
The book is very LA, right down to Hollywood Boulevard and the pretentiousness, which is a compliment on the world building. I also liked Tully's partner, who is a no BS cop who is having a hard time warming up to his brainiac partner who made homicide in record time just because he's a brainiac.
Jury out if I'll read the next one. Tempted, if only for Morales.
The book is very LA, right down to Hollywood Boulevard and the pretentiousness, which is a compliment on the world building. I also liked Tully's partner, who is a no BS cop who is having a hard time warming up to his brainiac partner who made homicide in record time just because he's a brainiac.
Jury out if I'll read the next one. Tempted, if only for Morales.
March 31, 2022
Tully Jarsdel is a unique individual and an even more remarkable detective. Just shy of earning his Doctorate, a man who speaks four languages and reads an additional five others, Tully quits his job teaching history at a community college and joins LAPD. As part of a rare experiment, LA homicide has decided to place extremely educated recruits with veteran homicide detectives to help boost their solve rates. Tully is chosen for one such team. Now he has been made "lead" on one of the worst cases anyone in the Hollywood division has encountered. It will either make him or ruin him forever.
I absolutely loved (!) One Day You'll Burn by #JosephSneider! I already do seriously enjoy reading crime fiction or police procedurals but this author combines that with a over-riding theme of history, world religion and philosophy. This is not a book for anyone looking for escapism. You definitely will learn from the background and dialogue throughout the book and that is exactly what I look for in fiction. LOVED IT!
@PPPress
I absolutely loved (!) One Day You'll Burn by #JosephSneider! I already do seriously enjoy reading crime fiction or police procedurals but this author combines that with a over-riding theme of history, world religion and philosophy. This is not a book for anyone looking for escapism. You definitely will learn from the background and dialogue throughout the book and that is exactly what I look for in fiction. LOVED IT!
@PPPress
February 10, 2020
Unique Take on a Gumshoe Mystery
Tully, our main character is an interesting guy: a new detective in an elite task force. He used to be a professor for several years. What he lacks in aggressive cop techniques he makes up for in being very astute and is quite driven to catch those who murder, whether they're men or dog killers. The other people in the story are well portrayed. They are realistic, quirky (like real life) and entertaining. There is plenty of action, one plot and a sub plot. There is some philosophy and history. You may be interested to know that romance plays a part in the story. Tully meets his girlfriend after her dog is killed.
This book was given by BookishFirst. Thank you for a delightful treat and a different type of gumshoe mystery novel.
Tully, our main character is an interesting guy: a new detective in an elite task force. He used to be a professor for several years. What he lacks in aggressive cop techniques he makes up for in being very astute and is quite driven to catch those who murder, whether they're men or dog killers. The other people in the story are well portrayed. They are realistic, quirky (like real life) and entertaining. There is plenty of action, one plot and a sub plot. There is some philosophy and history. You may be interested to know that romance plays a part in the story. Tully meets his girlfriend after her dog is killed.
This book was given by BookishFirst. Thank you for a delightful treat and a different type of gumshoe mystery novel.
April 12, 2025
2.5 stars
I started out liking this book for its rather different main character for a cop novel.
However, he didn't grow on me. The "beanpole" didn't have much of a character arc, in spite of a nice premiss for it - including having gay dads and coming from a very different background compared to every other cop in the book.
I did like the crimes in the book, even if I'm quite certain I've seen the "movie buff goes totally gaga in the head" plot twist in at least one too many quite cringey episodes of Midsomer Murders. It's just .... ah ... a bit theatrical.
What really brought my rating down below the solid 3 stars mark was the only female character included. Like, OMG, it's been a while since I last had to sit through such a blatantly "male" description of a female character.
My real issue here is that she basically throws herself at the protag, Tully, and his dick, as if she's desperate. Which she is, but... That's basically her only character trait.
The author doesn't really bother to supply anyone with a plausible reason as to why she even hangs out with Tully. He's not great at conversations, that's an established fact, and he's not (thankfully) super-model hot, but she still throws herself at him - and uses sex as a means of distraction to escape any deeper conversations.
The problem for me is that she's the only female character in the book given any sort of space within the story. And she's mostly there for the male main character to have sex with.
I found it borderline disgusting.
She was thrown out of the book towards the end (basically she throws Tully out for whatever flimsy reason, same way she started jumping his dick in the first place), but that's a good thing, because jeeeeeeze, she's an awful character build.
She didn't contribute anything of value and if you had cut her out completely the book wouldn't have suffered from it. The author would just have had to make up a new reason for Tully to end up where he ends up towards the end, when confronting the bad guy.
Oh well.
I think I might check back in with this series just to see how it goes and how it evolves.
I did like the setting and the original take on the miss-matched cops, forced to partner up.
There certainly is room to grow here. I'm hoping for the best.
I started out liking this book for its rather different main character for a cop novel.
However, he didn't grow on me. The "beanpole" didn't have much of a character arc, in spite of a nice premiss for it - including having gay dads and coming from a very different background compared to every other cop in the book.
I did like the crimes in the book, even if I'm quite certain I've seen the "movie buff goes totally gaga in the head" plot twist in at least one too many quite cringey episodes of Midsomer Murders. It's just .... ah ... a bit theatrical.
What really brought my rating down below the solid 3 stars mark was the only female character included. Like, OMG, it's been a while since I last had to sit through such a blatantly "male" description of a female character.
My real issue here is that she basically throws herself at the protag, Tully, and his dick, as if she's desperate. Which she is, but... That's basically her only character trait.
The author doesn't really bother to supply anyone with a plausible reason as to why she even hangs out with Tully. He's not great at conversations, that's an established fact, and he's not (thankfully) super-model hot, but she still throws herself at him - and uses sex as a means of distraction to escape any deeper conversations.
The problem for me is that she's the only female character in the book given any sort of space within the story. And she's mostly there for the male main character to have sex with.
I found it borderline disgusting.
She was thrown out of the book towards the end (basically she throws Tully out for whatever flimsy reason, same way she started jumping his dick in the first place), but that's a good thing, because jeeeeeeze, she's an awful character build.
She didn't contribute anything of value and if you had cut her out completely the book wouldn't have suffered from it. The author would just have had to make up a new reason for Tully to end up where he ends up towards the end, when confronting the bad guy.
Oh well.
I think I might check back in with this series just to see how it goes and how it evolves.
I did like the setting and the original take on the miss-matched cops, forced to partner up.
There certainly is room to grow here. I'm hoping for the best.
January 16, 2020
*received for free from netgalley for honest review*
I first came across this book and was able to read the first chapter and immediately wanted to read more! Overall this book was really good, I liked the story and characters, but not gonna lie I was NOT ready for the dog thing.... I love my dogs so much, have had the one since he was a month old and, im so happy I didn't read this book near when we got married or id have been a nervous wreck just from the thought!! I can handle what happened to the people, tho there was some really, really messed up stuff that happened to them, the dogs!!! :
;((( Just wish I would have known about that but it just made sure my dogs were inside when I read this lol
would recommend but with a warning about the dogs
I first came across this book and was able to read the first chapter and immediately wanted to read more! Overall this book was really good, I liked the story and characters, but not gonna lie I was NOT ready for the dog thing.... I love my dogs so much, have had the one since he was a month old and, im so happy I didn't read this book near when we got married or id have been a nervous wreck just from the thought!! I can handle what happened to the people, tho there was some really, really messed up stuff that happened to them, the dogs!!! :
;((( Just wish I would have known about that but it just made sure my dogs were inside when I read this lol
would recommend but with a warning about the dogs
February 27, 2020
I have struggled with this novel for a long time. I finished it but unfortunately I didn't enjoy it.
Maybe cops stories are not really my thing. Maybe it was this particular story. I just had a hard time getting into the novel and hard time liking any of the characters.
I didn't find this novel entertaining, interesting or surprising. Everything felt slow, and predictable.
It took me too much time to read it and there was absolutely nothing that kept me interested. Even the small romantic part in the story felt forced and boring. The fame character was totally unlikable and full of problems.
This novel was disaster for me. I finished it, but I wish i didn't waste my time on it.
I am sorry. This just wasn't a book for me.
Maybe cops stories are not really my thing. Maybe it was this particular story. I just had a hard time getting into the novel and hard time liking any of the characters.
I didn't find this novel entertaining, interesting or surprising. Everything felt slow, and predictable.
It took me too much time to read it and there was absolutely nothing that kept me interested. Even the small romantic part in the story felt forced and boring. The fame character was totally unlikable and full of problems.
This novel was disaster for me. I finished it, but I wish i didn't waste my time on it.
I am sorry. This just wasn't a book for me.
February 18, 2020
I have said it before, but it bears repeating: One of the joys of constant reading is the discovery of a new author who takes your favorite genre(s) in a slightly different direction. On that note, please permit me to introduce you to Joseph Schneider. ONE DAY YOU’LL BURN, his remarkably surefooted debut novel, stars a memorable character who you will want to see more of very soon.
LAPD homicide detective Tully Jarsdel is part of an experiment designed to fast-track policemen with college and post-graduate degrees into investigative units. He is partnered up with Morales, a somewhat jaded veteran detective who came up the long and hard way. Morales is less than impressed with the assignment, hanging the nickname “Prof” on Tully and not in a complimentary way. Part of the book’s entertainment is watching Tully earn Morales’ grudging respect over the course of the story. It’s an uphill, stiff-legged march; Tully, by his own admission, lacks some people skills and has a tendency to lecture when confronted with a topic in his field of expertise, which, to be sure, has a lot of acreage. He also has to contend with his parents, a pair of pointy-headed professors who are less than thrilled that their son has forsaken the ivory tower of academia for police work.
Tully gets his baptism by fire when he and Morales are assigned to investigate a high-profile murder in which the victim was burned to death and then left on a busy Hollywood street. It’s a puzzling case, not only for the whodunit aspect but also for the “why,” especially when the deceased is discovered to be a local character who was an irritation to those he encountered but not to the extent that he was worth killing. Someone, though, did the job on him, and in spectacular fashion. It is left to Tully and Morales to sort it out while under pressure from the brass, who want the case wrapped up quickly.
The pair also has a secondary but equally interesting cold case involving a fiend who murders dogs on the day that their owner is getting married. It has been going on for years, and the length of time between incidents makes the killer almost impossible to catch. Tully, whose approach to women is awkward (to say the least), becomes involved with one of the owners who has been so afflicted, and in the course of events acquires a clue that might solve the case.
However, the main case takes a bit more doing and is much more dangerous for everyone involved, including Tully, Morales and a host of others. The conclusion is cataclysmic, with everyone leaving a piece or two (or more) of themselves before the dust settles and the smoke clears. Don’t get too attached to anyone in particular. They may not make it to the end of the book.
Schneider is one of those people who knows quite a bit about a lot of different subjects, including old films, movie props, ballroom dancing and philosophy. He weaves them all into and through ONE DAY YOU’LL BURN with nary a misstep. I am hoping that this is the first of many books in a series, because these characters in this setting are just too good to end with a stand-alone. Regardless, watch for more from Schneider, an exciting talent whose work is worth your while.
Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub
LAPD homicide detective Tully Jarsdel is part of an experiment designed to fast-track policemen with college and post-graduate degrees into investigative units. He is partnered up with Morales, a somewhat jaded veteran detective who came up the long and hard way. Morales is less than impressed with the assignment, hanging the nickname “Prof” on Tully and not in a complimentary way. Part of the book’s entertainment is watching Tully earn Morales’ grudging respect over the course of the story. It’s an uphill, stiff-legged march; Tully, by his own admission, lacks some people skills and has a tendency to lecture when confronted with a topic in his field of expertise, which, to be sure, has a lot of acreage. He also has to contend with his parents, a pair of pointy-headed professors who are less than thrilled that their son has forsaken the ivory tower of academia for police work.
Tully gets his baptism by fire when he and Morales are assigned to investigate a high-profile murder in which the victim was burned to death and then left on a busy Hollywood street. It’s a puzzling case, not only for the whodunit aspect but also for the “why,” especially when the deceased is discovered to be a local character who was an irritation to those he encountered but not to the extent that he was worth killing. Someone, though, did the job on him, and in spectacular fashion. It is left to Tully and Morales to sort it out while under pressure from the brass, who want the case wrapped up quickly.
The pair also has a secondary but equally interesting cold case involving a fiend who murders dogs on the day that their owner is getting married. It has been going on for years, and the length of time between incidents makes the killer almost impossible to catch. Tully, whose approach to women is awkward (to say the least), becomes involved with one of the owners who has been so afflicted, and in the course of events acquires a clue that might solve the case.
However, the main case takes a bit more doing and is much more dangerous for everyone involved, including Tully, Morales and a host of others. The conclusion is cataclysmic, with everyone leaving a piece or two (or more) of themselves before the dust settles and the smoke clears. Don’t get too attached to anyone in particular. They may not make it to the end of the book.
Schneider is one of those people who knows quite a bit about a lot of different subjects, including old films, movie props, ballroom dancing and philosophy. He weaves them all into and through ONE DAY YOU’LL BURN with nary a misstep. I am hoping that this is the first of many books in a series, because these characters in this setting are just too good to end with a stand-alone. Regardless, watch for more from Schneider, an exciting talent whose work is worth your while.
Reviewed by Joe Hartlaub
February 9, 2020
One Day You’ll Burn is Joseph Schneider’s debut, launching the Tully Jarsdel series of police procedurals. Tully works for Hollywood Homicide, an experimental division pairing young, high-scoring academically-oriented cops with older, experienced partners. Jarsdel is a Ph.D. and former history professor who turned to policing to make a difference. His fathers are disappointed and not shy about expressing it.
The story begins when he is called to a bizarre murder. The body of a man is found placed on a Thai Buddhist statue. But the real puzzle is the cause of death, the man was baked to death. Not burned, baked. What kind of oven is big enough for that. He is put in charge of the investigation, something he is certain his partner did because the case is likely to go unsolved.
Meanwhile, the team is also working to identify a serial dog poisoner. While interviewing victims, Jarsdel encounters a woman who seems a great fit to his somewhat (very) didactic conversational style. She likes efficiency.
I liked One Day You’ll Burn a lot. There is a scene where Jarsdel strikes up a conversation with a woman at the Farmers Market who is writing a book. I just know that woman went home and tweeted about how she was mansplained by this guy. And of course, he wasn’t, but from her perspective, I am sure she is thinking the occasion replicated Rebecca Solnit’s experience exactly. There was something so funny and poignant about Jarsdel recognizing he flubbed and his six-minute epitaph of their relationship. Here’s the thing, when a writer makes even a minor one-scene encounter so real, you are imagining the characters continuing their day and doing something in reaction to events, that writer has made them come alive. If I’m taking the characters off the page, the writer has made me care.
The mystery itself is solved by a combination of serendipity and those connections that people intuit when they have the information they need. It does, however, need a content warning. There is grisly murder afoot, grisly, stomach-turning murder. This is not a cozy despite the humor and humanity. However, I am eager to see Jarsdel’s development as a detective and as a man. I look forward to what comes next in the series.
I received an e-galley of One Day You’ll Burn from the publisher through NetGalley.
One Day You’ll Burn at SourceBooks
Joseph Schneider author site
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
The story begins when he is called to a bizarre murder. The body of a man is found placed on a Thai Buddhist statue. But the real puzzle is the cause of death, the man was baked to death. Not burned, baked. What kind of oven is big enough for that. He is put in charge of the investigation, something he is certain his partner did because the case is likely to go unsolved.
Meanwhile, the team is also working to identify a serial dog poisoner. While interviewing victims, Jarsdel encounters a woman who seems a great fit to his somewhat (very) didactic conversational style. She likes efficiency.
I liked One Day You’ll Burn a lot. There is a scene where Jarsdel strikes up a conversation with a woman at the Farmers Market who is writing a book. I just know that woman went home and tweeted about how she was mansplained by this guy. And of course, he wasn’t, but from her perspective, I am sure she is thinking the occasion replicated Rebecca Solnit’s experience exactly. There was something so funny and poignant about Jarsdel recognizing he flubbed and his six-minute epitaph of their relationship. Here’s the thing, when a writer makes even a minor one-scene encounter so real, you are imagining the characters continuing their day and doing something in reaction to events, that writer has made them come alive. If I’m taking the characters off the page, the writer has made me care.
The mystery itself is solved by a combination of serendipity and those connections that people intuit when they have the information they need. It does, however, need a content warning. There is grisly murder afoot, grisly, stomach-turning murder. This is not a cozy despite the humor and humanity. However, I am eager to see Jarsdel’s development as a detective and as a man. I look forward to what comes next in the series.
I received an e-galley of One Day You’ll Burn from the publisher through NetGalley.
One Day You’ll Burn at SourceBooks
Joseph Schneider author site
https://tonstantweaderreviews.wordpre...
August 19, 2022
i feel like i’ve been reading this book for forever, but i definitely liked it more as it went on! the end is like a movie which is cool. i’d give it a bonus .5 stars for the grumpy
partner who opens up
partner who opens up
January 24, 2020
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an advance e-galley for honest review.
This excellent debut novel reads like classic police procedural, and it reads as both meticulously researched and passionate about the genre. Los Angeles becomes a wonderful secondary character in this book- Detective Jarsdel is a native to the area, and can both wonder at a spectacular view and accept the gritty side of the city as well. It's been awhile since I read such a unusual and (though grotesque) set up as Jarsdel and his partner investigate a body that has been dumped, entirely, evenly burned, with very little evidence. The timeline in this story also seems very realistic, as weeks go by while waiting for DNA evidence and time lapses as they work on the investigation (unlike a television show with convenient "rushes" on evidence). This appears to be the first in a series, and I'm eager to read more.
This excellent debut novel reads like classic police procedural, and it reads as both meticulously researched and passionate about the genre. Los Angeles becomes a wonderful secondary character in this book- Detective Jarsdel is a native to the area, and can both wonder at a spectacular view and accept the gritty side of the city as well. It's been awhile since I read such a unusual and (though grotesque) set up as Jarsdel and his partner investigate a body that has been dumped, entirely, evenly burned, with very little evidence. The timeline in this story also seems very realistic, as weeks go by while waiting for DNA evidence and time lapses as they work on the investigation (unlike a television show with convenient "rushes" on evidence). This appears to be the first in a series, and I'm eager to read more.
December 14, 2019
"One day you'll burn" is Joseph Schneider's debut novel and a pretty interesting one. At first glance it looks like a modern day police procedural, but while reading it I couldn't help be reminded of classic noir fiction, maybe because one of its themes is Hollywood Golden Age.
Every time I read a police procedural by a new author I pray to the gods for the detective not to be an alcoholic, secret addict, battling inner demons or have a dysfunctional family, cause there are times that all the detectives out there look the same. On this subject, "One day you'll burn" was quite refreshing, as here we have a history professor turned police detective, with two gay dads that doesn't approve his career change and a Mexican partner who's not so sure about his new partner.
The murder mystery was also quite interesting specially because the manner of death was such an unusual one. The investigation was well done and the plot moved steadily, reaching a satisfying ending.
While the murder investigation kept me completely engrossed, I found most unappealing the long philosophical discussions, which just served to slow down the rhythm, taking me out of the story every time. Also, in my opinion, the second plot line (the dogs poisonings) was just an excuse to introduce the main character love interest, and not needed seeing as it didn't relate at all with the main plot line.
Overall, I enjoyed it pretty much so will definitely come back for book two if this turns into a series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Every time I read a police procedural by a new author I pray to the gods for the detective not to be an alcoholic, secret addict, battling inner demons or have a dysfunctional family, cause there are times that all the detectives out there look the same. On this subject, "One day you'll burn" was quite refreshing, as here we have a history professor turned police detective, with two gay dads that doesn't approve his career change and a Mexican partner who's not so sure about his new partner.
The murder mystery was also quite interesting specially because the manner of death was such an unusual one. The investigation was well done and the plot moved steadily, reaching a satisfying ending.
While the murder investigation kept me completely engrossed, I found most unappealing the long philosophical discussions, which just served to slow down the rhythm, taking me out of the story every time. Also, in my opinion, the second plot line (the dogs poisonings) was just an excuse to introduce the main character love interest, and not needed seeing as it didn't relate at all with the main plot line.
Overall, I enjoyed it pretty much so will definitely come back for book two if this turns into a series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2019
This is the first book of a new series and although I’m not a huge police procedural fan the synopsis had me intrigued and I wanted to give it a go.
California is sadly already known for its wildfires and now there’s a killer out there who literally cooked a person. Detective Tully Jarsdel is assigned to the morbid case. Can he figure out the murderer and their motive or will he become another body charred to the crisp laid ritualistically like an offering to the burning sun?
This was a refreshing take on a crime novel. Usually with cop novels the protagonist is a take charge, tough guy who eats tobacco for breakfast and clears his sinuses with whiskey. Detective Jarsdel is the antithesis. He's sensitive, charming, and logical. He used to be a Professor and is mixed race, the son of two gay dads.
This is beyond the scope of refreshing. There were some parts of the read that were hard to read but mostly this was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to reading more.
Thanks very much to Netgalley, Sourcebooks, and the publisher for this copy of my ARC. All opinions are my own.
California is sadly already known for its wildfires and now there’s a killer out there who literally cooked a person. Detective Tully Jarsdel is assigned to the morbid case. Can he figure out the murderer and their motive or will he become another body charred to the crisp laid ritualistically like an offering to the burning sun?
This was a refreshing take on a crime novel. Usually with cop novels the protagonist is a take charge, tough guy who eats tobacco for breakfast and clears his sinuses with whiskey. Detective Jarsdel is the antithesis. He's sensitive, charming, and logical. He used to be a Professor and is mixed race, the son of two gay dads.
This is beyond the scope of refreshing. There were some parts of the read that were hard to read but mostly this was an enjoyable read and I'm looking forward to reading more.
Thanks very much to Netgalley, Sourcebooks, and the publisher for this copy of my ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 9, 2020
This book has a fantastic collection of truly weird characters. The story is imaginative and suspenseful, and the antics of the characters are a big plus. The setting of Hollywood and the inclusion of information from a variety of films, some rather obscure, makes for a very entertaining read. The story begins with the discovery of a gory corpse that appears to have been baked alive. Despite this ominous beginning, the terror doesn't come until near the end. In between you meet people who are truly unique and off-the-wall crazy. In addition to the entertainment, the reader is treated to an education with snippets from history and the movies.
April 13, 2021
Couldn't get past chapter 2. Hated the writing style. There are too many good books to finish this one.
August 10, 2020
One Day You’ll Burn
A coyote found the body first as it lay at the base of a pagoda in Thailand Plaza. Driven by the fires that had consumed Griffith Park moving her natural food sources away, the scrawny coyote took off a chunk of thigh before the flashing lights and sirens of the first officers to arrive on scene sent her scurrying off elsewhere this new day.
Paramedics and firefighters soon add to the scene further snarling traffic. Not only does that snarl of traffic make it harder for morning commuters, it slows down the arrival of Detectives Tully Jarsdel and Morales. Five years on the force and new to homicide, the death of a person who was possibly tortured and then cooked alive at high temperatures much like your Sunday dinner roast, becomes his case to solve as lead detective in One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel by Joseph Schneider.
This police procedural combines a horrific case full of mystery in with elements of history and philosophy to create a compelling and intense read. Jarsdel walked away from a very promising career in academia and did so with tremendous personal repercussions that continue years later. His background is going to play a major role in the case as events unfold. A role that may encourage Morales and others to lay off the jokes for a while.
In addition to the main storyline, there are several secondary storylines at work in this debut police procedural. One of which involves the killing of family pets and may disturb some readers. Intense and very complicated, very graphic at times, One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel is a different read than a lot of the police procedurals you come across. It is also incredibly good and very much recommended.
One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel
Joseph Schneider
https://jschneiderbooks.com/
Poison Pen Press
https://poisonedpenpress.com/books/
February 2020
ISBN# 978-1-4926-8444-2
Paperback (also available in audio and eBook formats)
336 Pages
My read came my way of the Downtown Branch and ultimately to me through the “Library To Go” curbside pickup program at the Lochwood Branch of the Dallas Public Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2020
A coyote found the body first as it lay at the base of a pagoda in Thailand Plaza. Driven by the fires that had consumed Griffith Park moving her natural food sources away, the scrawny coyote took off a chunk of thigh before the flashing lights and sirens of the first officers to arrive on scene sent her scurrying off elsewhere this new day.
Paramedics and firefighters soon add to the scene further snarling traffic. Not only does that snarl of traffic make it harder for morning commuters, it slows down the arrival of Detectives Tully Jarsdel and Morales. Five years on the force and new to homicide, the death of a person who was possibly tortured and then cooked alive at high temperatures much like your Sunday dinner roast, becomes his case to solve as lead detective in One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel by Joseph Schneider.
This police procedural combines a horrific case full of mystery in with elements of history and philosophy to create a compelling and intense read. Jarsdel walked away from a very promising career in academia and did so with tremendous personal repercussions that continue years later. His background is going to play a major role in the case as events unfold. A role that may encourage Morales and others to lay off the jokes for a while.
In addition to the main storyline, there are several secondary storylines at work in this debut police procedural. One of which involves the killing of family pets and may disturb some readers. Intense and very complicated, very graphic at times, One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel is a different read than a lot of the police procedurals you come across. It is also incredibly good and very much recommended.
One Day You’ll Burn: A Novel
Joseph Schneider
https://jschneiderbooks.com/
Poison Pen Press
https://poisonedpenpress.com/books/
February 2020
ISBN# 978-1-4926-8444-2
Paperback (also available in audio and eBook formats)
336 Pages
My read came my way of the Downtown Branch and ultimately to me through the “Library To Go” curbside pickup program at the Lochwood Branch of the Dallas Public Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2020
January 2, 2025
First read of the year! And not a bad one, at that. I really like this series. Reading it out of order has turned out to be a providential accident. As much as I enjoyed this book, I wouldn't have been super interested in progressing with the series if I had read it first. The second book is definitely better and has a lot less of the long paragraphs of people giving their long, philosophical thoughts out loud. But this one is great once you're used to Schneider's writing style and you're invested in the characters.
And speaking of the characters, the romance subplot in this book was kind of cloying (why was he telling her he loved her. Like what. The two of yall barely know each other and she separated from her husband a year ago) But I really like Tully as a character so I was able to stay invested. He's so cute and lame (in an endearing way). Which obviously isn't the impression you're supposed to get out of a mystery protag. But this is me we're talking about.
In any case, I like that the murders in both books are tied to distinctly Californian culture. This one is about a movie devotee who wants to restore Hollywood to silver screen "purity" and the second book takes inspiration from serial killers like the Nightstalker. I think this book does the California themes better, even if I like it a little bit less than the sequel.
Gonna move to the third book, it's available on Hoopla. Happy New Year!
And speaking of the characters, the romance subplot in this book was kind of cloying (why was he telling her he loved her. Like what. The two of yall barely know each other and she separated from her husband a year ago) But I really like Tully as a character so I was able to stay invested. He's so cute and lame (in an endearing way). Which obviously isn't the impression you're supposed to get out of a mystery protag. But this is me we're talking about.
In any case, I like that the murders in both books are tied to distinctly Californian culture. This one is about a movie devotee who wants to restore Hollywood to silver screen "purity" and the second book takes inspiration from serial killers like the Nightstalker. I think this book does the California themes better, even if I like it a little bit less than the sequel.
Gonna move to the third book, it's available on Hoopla. Happy New Year!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews