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Dead Line: A paranormal police procedural with a detective who hears the dead

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The second book in a supernatural crime thriller series, following a detective who can hear the dead as a copycat killing spree mimics a case he thought was closed. Paranormal police procedural with ghostly witnesses, a serial-killer signature and a race to protect his own family.

Some secrets refuse to stay buried. Some voices never fade.

Detective Carl Drozick has an edge most investigators don’t, he can hear the dead. But when the ghost of Ana Diaz vanishes in terror at her own crime scene, Carl knows this case is different. Ana didn’t just die; she was marked. And she’s not the only one.

Two more victims. The same brutal signature, bodies carved with eerie numbers tied to a past Carl thought was dead and buried. The evidence points to Michael Scott Andrews, a killer Carl took down months ago. But if Michael is truly dead, who’s carrying out his grim legacy?

As the investigation tightens, Carl’s world shatters. His estranged daughter disappears, and suddenly, the case isn’t just about catching a killer, it’s about saving his own flesh and blood. With time running out, Carl must untangle a web of vengeance, faith, and madness before the next body drops.

Murder, mystery, and the supernatural collide in Dead Line, the second book in The Corpse Whisperer series. If you crave gritty crime thrillers with a paranormal twist, this ride is for you.

Dead Line is book one in The Corpse Whisperer Series, a thriller for fans of Darynda Jones and Kelley Armstrong.

“Praise for the Corpse Whisperer

"Wow. I absolutely loved this book.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Entertaining police story with a twist.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “This is a page-turning thrill ride that will leave you wanting more.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Kept me interested until the very end!”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “I can't wait to read more!”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Edge of your seat gritty and riveting.”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Paranormal + Serial Killer = Great reading!”

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “This story was a page turner for me.”

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2025

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About the author

Richard Rybicki

21 books8 followers

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5 stars
243 (70%)
4 stars
81 (23%)
3 stars
22 (6%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
2,676 reviews
June 1, 2025
Really good follow-up with this second book in the "Corpse Whisperer" series. Detective Drozick seems a bit mellower with fellow officers as he and colleague Lojack follow the trail of another serial killer. Additional highlights involve Drozick working to reconnect with his daughter, surprisingly dines with a female colleague and takes no guff from a new lieutenant who hates him. A lot of action, right on dialogue and homicide detective Drozick's continuing determination to stop murderers make for a fine and a little off-beat police procedural.
Profile Image for Tracy.
11 reviews
June 19, 2026
Fast, fun thriller.

You will laugh and you will be intrigued in this fast, dun thriller. I hope there are more stories of the corpse whisperer to be told.
Profile Image for Maryann (Mae).
701 reviews12 followers
April 20, 2025
This is the second book in a series that I hope will continue to grow. It further develops the bond between the main character and his supporting cast, creating a believable and cohesive team. The author has meticulously crafted a rich and believable background for the main character, which has certainly piqued my interest in future installments. I eagerly anticipate more books in this series.
Profile Image for Annette.
124 reviews2 followers
June 15, 2026
Detective Carl Drozick - homicide division - closes more cases than any other. His secret? The victim tells him who did it. It isn't really necessary to read the first book, Dead Weight, but I would recommend it. Dead Line is linked to it and you would get a better understanding.

Carl and Jack (Lojack) work dilligently to find the new serial killer that has come to their town. They have put the pieces of the puzzle together and think they know but have nothing except clues that point to their suspect. Carl doesn't fear for his daughter -- until his doctor suggests it. Now he fears for her and anyone who gets in the killer's way.

This is an excellent book. Fast and contains very little 'language' and absolutely no vivid bedroom scenes -- always a plus! I haven't looked yet but do hope #3 is already written.
301 reviews4 followers
November 2, 2026
I liked him fine the way he was.

Mr Rybicki is, I think, trying to make Carl more likeable.
It seems to me that he is just more confused.
The plot is very good. This is still classical noir detective.
The women in Carl's life are all unlikeable, from his entitled, self-centered, selfish teenager daughter, ditto wife and the physicians. The pathologist acts irrational, which is unfair to the plot. The psychiatrist should have her license revoked, she clings for selfish reasons, and is no help at all to Carl. The psycic? Too early to tell.

The paranormal parts are growing, but are still not taking over, thankfully.

The plot is good. I didn't suspect.
I do hope that there will be sequels.
36 reviews
June 5, 2025
Suspenseful and really fun to read

Great book. I really liked it. I don't believe anyone can talk to the dead. But this whole book is so interesting to read that it almost convinces you they can. This book kept me interested and cureous through the whole book. I found myself even routing for some of the characters. Can't wait for his next book. I think anyone would love this book.
3 reviews
June 2, 2026
A new favorite author

This second book is a good follow up from the first. I was so taken with the first that I got this the same day the first was finished. This police procedural is a page turner. Could not wait for the next chapter. It is well written with a fascinating plot and truly interesting characters. Add in a touch of the paranormal and it is like sprinkles on ice cream. I will definitely be reading everything Mr. Rubicon writes!

99 reviews4 followers
January 8, 2026
Amazing Series, hoping for more

Book 2 just as amazing as book one. I sure hope there’s going to be more once again the characters the storyline all of it was such a great read. I couldn’t put the book down if you wanna read something new in the crime/supernatural drama you won’t be disappointed.
9 reviews
January 28, 2026
Corpse Whisperer wins again

The characters and other action are so believable and relatable! I want more of the Corpse Whisperer series. The detective is one of the best protagonists I've ever read, no false bravado or self aggrandizing, just a normal flawed man. The storylines are grand ,just twisty and interesting.
Profile Image for Jeanne.
950 reviews
August 4, 2026
Dead Line is another winner from Richard Rybicki. It’s sharp, funny, and packed with the kind of snappy dialogue that make his stories so enjoyable. The mystery keeps you hooked without ever feeling heavy, and the characters bring just the right mix of wit and personality to every scene. An easy recommendation for anyone who loves a fun, engaging read.
7 reviews
January 1, 2026
great conclusion to book one.

Loved reading about these characters. Hope this series continues for a long time. I will read them all. Great mystery books with people you want to know more about.
1 review
January 25, 2026
Couldn't put it down.

After reading another Rubicon book, I had to purchase this one. Couldn't put it down. Well written and it moved along. There was a twist in the end. With a good ending.
14 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2026
great premise

Fast read. Having a beyond-the-grave stalker is just as disturbing as you would think. The author doesn’t give detailed information, allowing the reader to “see” the characters however they wish.
6 reviews
March 14, 2026
Fantastic Series

After the first book I had to get the 2nd. I read it at dr appts, while a passenger in car, when I woke up & just before going to bed. Love the characters and the storyline…can’t wait for next book!!!
32 reviews
June 8, 2026
Fabulous

I thoroughly enjoyed reading these two books, it was different to what I usually read but I'm pleased to discover this author.
It was excellent in so many ways and absolutely believable.
Well worth a read. Loved the main characters and the story line.
Profile Image for Magpie Rain.
41 reviews3 followers
June 9, 2026
Ha!

Okay that last scene made me laugh. Loved it. While I completely enjoyed the first book, this one was so much better.

I love me a jaded Detective and Carl is that. I hope we get more stories about thim.
Profile Image for Mrs Susan Bickerton.
392 reviews6 followers
July 19, 2026
Very good

I liked the first book, this was even better, very entertaining, with a cop who can talk to dead people, having to keep that a secret from his colleagues, makes this a very good read. Looking forward to more.
Profile Image for Carol Garner.
2 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2025
good read

I enjoyed reading this book. It was fast paced and engaging. I would recommend reading the first one and then reading this one.
16 reviews17 followers
December 26, 2025
Tru crime- leaves you wondering till the end

Protagonist is detective who has his own issues, including voices of the recently murdered. Plot is interesting - easy read.
1 review
January 20, 2026
Good book,

I like the characters, I can't wait for book 3, I usually read fantasy werewolves ,dragons but I like these books very much.
31 reviews
January 22, 2026
Dead Line Book 2~another page turner

Just as good as the first book! Read it in one night again. Couldn’t read it fast enough!! Going to check other books by this author…
1 review
January 24, 2026
Is book 3 completed yet?

This genre is right up my alley. I love a good police procedural with a little psychic medium sprinkled in.
18 reviews
March 7, 2026
different & entertaining

I wanted Baker back and to see Costa and Carl together for real. Good read! Voodoo and Bakas and Lous. Epic!
Profile Image for Maureen Ritter.
22 reviews
March 23, 2026
Great series start. Books 1 & 2

The first two books were thoroughly enjoyable. Hope more are coming. Would love to see more of FBI Agent Blake.
Profile Image for Bonnie.
18 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2026
Fun read

I have really enjoyed the first two books in this series, looking forward to the rest.
Good characters and interesting stories
18 reviews
March 31, 2026
What a page turner!

Carl prevails, but not before quite a few twists and turns! Wow! I hope there will be more titles in this series.
Profile Image for Tony George.
31 reviews1 follower
April 2, 2026
Another great read except…

The author gave away the farm too early. Either that or I am way smarter than the detective! LOL Still a fun read!
1 review
April 9, 2026
Very entertaining read!

I read both books in this series. Really enjoyed the original story line! I am looking forward to reading more books from this author!
Profile Image for Jenntleh.
836 reviews3 followers
April 13, 2026
Going into this, I really thought the first book wrapped up that case—but this series clearly isn’t done with it yet. And honestly, that’s what makes this installment so compelling.
This story continues to follow a detective with an unusual edge: he can communicate with the dead. What felt like a closed chapter quickly unravels as new voices—and new methods of being heard—start pushing their way through. The mystery deepens rather than resets, building on what we thought we already understood.
There’s a strong sense of suspense throughout, with the supernatural element adding tension instead of overshadowing the investigation. The stakes feel higher this time, especially as the line between the living and the dead becomes even more blurred.
A solid continuation that keeps the intrigue alive and proves this series still has more to say.
18 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2026
The first book was very good-the second even better! I definitely hope that a third one is in the works!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews