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Violent Echoes: A Brooks & Banks Novel
Two agents. A treasonous conspiracy. No one to trust but each other.
FBI Special Agent Jackson Brooks thought he could leave the darkness behind. After walking away from the Violent Crimes Against Children task force, he retreated to Florence, Alabama, hoping for peace. But when two people are executed at a local restaurant, Jackson is pulled back into a world he thought he’d escaped.
FBI Special Agent Willow Banks has one last chance to make things right. Haunted by her partner’s death, she’s determined to save the K9 her late partner left behind—an unruly dog the Bureau has given up on. Sent to Jackson for help evaluating the animal, Willow’s visit takes an unexpected turn when the quiet Alabama town erupts in violence.
With a corrupt police force eager to pin the murders on a homeless man, Jackson and Willow must confront their demons and trust each other to uncover the truth. Because in Florence, the real monsters aren’t always hiding in the shadows—they’re standing in plain sight.
FBI Special Agent Jackson Brooks thought he could leave the darkness behind. After walking away from the Violent Crimes Against Children task force, he retreated to Florence, Alabama, hoping for peace. But when two people are executed at a local restaurant, Jackson is pulled back into a world he thought he’d escaped.
FBI Special Agent Willow Banks has one last chance to make things right. Haunted by her partner’s death, she’s determined to save the K9 her late partner left behind—an unruly dog the Bureau has given up on. Sent to Jackson for help evaluating the animal, Willow’s visit takes an unexpected turn when the quiet Alabama town erupts in violence.
With a corrupt police force eager to pin the murders on a homeless man, Jackson and Willow must confront their demons and trust each other to uncover the truth. Because in Florence, the real monsters aren’t always hiding in the shadows—they’re standing in plain sight.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2025
105 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 4, 2025
I loved this. It begins with a double murder by someone disguised as a homeless man with plenty of witnesses. Jax is not convinced and with his new colleague , FBI agent Willow Banks who is in town for her K9 training, sets out to prove otherwise.
There's twist after twist here. Lots of corruption but which people within the local police department? I flip flopped on that so many times. I adored the dogs and this totally added to the story. There's even room for some romance. I'll certainly be back for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There's twist after twist here. Lots of corruption but which people within the local police department? I flip flopped on that so many times. I adored the dogs and this totally added to the story. There's even room for some romance. I'll certainly be back for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2025
** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
I really enjoyed “Violent Echoes” by PJ Mouchet, which is the first novel in the Brooks and Banks series. I have read a lot of FBI-centered books, but this one was set apart by the inclusion of K9s. I personally love K9 officers and the men/women that they work along side. It amazes me how they can go from friendly dog to snarling hair missile with just a spoken command. One of the K9’s in this novel, Ranger, has been given one last chance to redeem himself as a K9 and prove he isn’t a lost clause. His human partner, Kate, had been killed in the line of duty while protecting him. Now Ranger has been handed over to Willow Banks, a FBI Special Agent and Kate’s best friend. Willow is not a K9 officer and has been having a very difficult time handling the traumatized Belgian Malinois. She has travelled to Alabama to meet up with Special Agent Jackson Brooks, who is a well known K9 trainer and something of a dog whisperer. Agent Brooks also has a K9, Ruby. Before the agents and their K9s can get down to business with retraining Ranger, all hell breaks loose in the town. Suddenly a high profile murder has both Agents and their K9s wrapped up in an investigation that has them questioning the alliances of everyone around them. I was seriously wondering if EVERYONE in the town was crooked.
The plot of this novel had me guessing at every turn. The case pitted agent against agent and soon SA Brooks and SA Banks did not know who they could trust, but they did trust each other. I liked the interactions between the characters, I felt like they balanced each other out well. I found refreshing to find SA Banks to be the bolder of the two agents. She is not a “shrinking violet” at all and she really stands her grounds….although sometimes I felt like the author forced her brashness a bit much. SA Brooks, however, is a nice southern gentleman that seemed a tad too soft at times. I wouldn’t call him a wuss, just soft… however he did stand up for his beliefs and not waver when he was brought under fire.
Overall this was not your typical FBI thriller and I really enjoyed it. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes FBI thrillers or anyone that likes K9s. I will definitely be reading the next book in the Brooks & Banks series!
I really enjoyed “Violent Echoes” by PJ Mouchet, which is the first novel in the Brooks and Banks series. I have read a lot of FBI-centered books, but this one was set apart by the inclusion of K9s. I personally love K9 officers and the men/women that they work along side. It amazes me how they can go from friendly dog to snarling hair missile with just a spoken command. One of the K9’s in this novel, Ranger, has been given one last chance to redeem himself as a K9 and prove he isn’t a lost clause. His human partner, Kate, had been killed in the line of duty while protecting him. Now Ranger has been handed over to Willow Banks, a FBI Special Agent and Kate’s best friend. Willow is not a K9 officer and has been having a very difficult time handling the traumatized Belgian Malinois. She has travelled to Alabama to meet up with Special Agent Jackson Brooks, who is a well known K9 trainer and something of a dog whisperer. Agent Brooks also has a K9, Ruby. Before the agents and their K9s can get down to business with retraining Ranger, all hell breaks loose in the town. Suddenly a high profile murder has both Agents and their K9s wrapped up in an investigation that has them questioning the alliances of everyone around them. I was seriously wondering if EVERYONE in the town was crooked.
The plot of this novel had me guessing at every turn. The case pitted agent against agent and soon SA Brooks and SA Banks did not know who they could trust, but they did trust each other. I liked the interactions between the characters, I felt like they balanced each other out well. I found refreshing to find SA Banks to be the bolder of the two agents. She is not a “shrinking violet” at all and she really stands her grounds….although sometimes I felt like the author forced her brashness a bit much. SA Brooks, however, is a nice southern gentleman that seemed a tad too soft at times. I wouldn’t call him a wuss, just soft… however he did stand up for his beliefs and not waver when he was brought under fire.
Overall this was not your typical FBI thriller and I really enjoyed it. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes FBI thrillers or anyone that likes K9s. I will definitely be reading the next book in the Brooks & Banks series!
December 23, 2025
This excellent thriller delivers sustained tension from start to finish. The pacing is tight, the stakes remain high throughout, and the story consistently keeps the reader on edge without relying on artificial twists or unnecessary complexity. Every chapter pushes the narrative forward, making it difficult to put the book down.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its character development, which feels natural and emotionally grounded. The relationships are carefully built, allowing the reader to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The inclusion and development of the dog is particularly well handled; never gimmicky, always meaningful, and fully integrated into the emotional core of the story. This adds an extra layer of authenticity and attachment that enhances the overall impact.
The emotional realism stands out as well. The reactions, fears, and moral tensions feel credible, and the scenes unfold in a way that feels lived-in rather than staged. Action sequences are clear and immersive, while quieter moments, including the conclusion, carry genuine emotional weight. The author balances suspense and humanity with confidence.
There are a few minor typographical errors scattered throughout the text, but they are infrequent and never distracting enough to break immersion. The quality of the storytelling easily outweighs these small imperfections.
Overall, *Violent Echoes* is a gripping, well-crafted thriller that combines tension, emotion, and strong character work with impressive control. Highly recommended reading for thriller fans, and for anyone looking for a compelling, engaging story that resonates long after the final page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its character development, which feels natural and emotionally grounded. The relationships are carefully built, allowing the reader to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The inclusion and development of the dog is particularly well handled; never gimmicky, always meaningful, and fully integrated into the emotional core of the story. This adds an extra layer of authenticity and attachment that enhances the overall impact.
The emotional realism stands out as well. The reactions, fears, and moral tensions feel credible, and the scenes unfold in a way that feels lived-in rather than staged. Action sequences are clear and immersive, while quieter moments, including the conclusion, carry genuine emotional weight. The author balances suspense and humanity with confidence.
There are a few minor typographical errors scattered throughout the text, but they are infrequent and never distracting enough to break immersion. The quality of the storytelling easily outweighs these small imperfections.
Overall, *Violent Echoes* is a gripping, well-crafted thriller that combines tension, emotion, and strong character work with impressive control. Highly recommended reading for thriller fans, and for anyone looking for a compelling, engaging story that resonates long after the final page.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 27, 2025
I received an ARC through "Booksirens" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Jax and Willow meeting in a restaurant when they hear a loud bang. Willow leaves immediately and soon Jax follows. The noise was created by a flash bang in order to permit a killer to make an escape. There were two bodies when they went into the restaurant of which Jax knew both. One was the mayor's daughter and the other was a childhood friend Jax went to college with and also when he joined the FBI. The evidence all pointed to a homeless man that was earlier engaged to the mayor's daughter. Because the killing involved an FBI agent, Willow took the lead which caused friction with the local PD. The PD were sure that Levi, the homeless man, was the killer and even one officer was sent to kill him. Jax and Willow arrived on the scene and prevented the officer from killing Levi, but wound up committing suicide instead.
Now that Jax and Willow were in charge of the investigation, they began their hunt for the real killer. The local PD, which had some corrupt officers, still went all out to find Levi even going so far to search Jax's home. As they learned more, Jax had to make a big decision since what was going on pointed to a person he had a lot of trust in.
To find out who the killer was, why they wanted Levi so bad, what Jax and Willow learned along the way and how it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book, you won't be disappointed!
This story begins with Jax and Willow meeting in a restaurant when they hear a loud bang. Willow leaves immediately and soon Jax follows. The noise was created by a flash bang in order to permit a killer to make an escape. There were two bodies when they went into the restaurant of which Jax knew both. One was the mayor's daughter and the other was a childhood friend Jax went to college with and also when he joined the FBI. The evidence all pointed to a homeless man that was earlier engaged to the mayor's daughter. Because the killing involved an FBI agent, Willow took the lead which caused friction with the local PD. The PD were sure that Levi, the homeless man, was the killer and even one officer was sent to kill him. Jax and Willow arrived on the scene and prevented the officer from killing Levi, but wound up committing suicide instead.
Now that Jax and Willow were in charge of the investigation, they began their hunt for the real killer. The local PD, which had some corrupt officers, still went all out to find Levi even going so far to search Jax's home. As they learned more, Jax had to make a big decision since what was going on pointed to a person he had a lot of trust in.
To find out who the killer was, why they wanted Levi so bad, what Jax and Willow learned along the way and how it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book, you won't be disappointed!
September 19, 2025
What's not to love about Violent Echoes? It's set in my home state of Alabama, I'm very familiar with the city of Florence, and it has DOGS! Plus, there are all kinds of action, suspense, and a man who has every good quality you could want in a partner (both work and life), it is full of good Southern care and respect, and did I mention it has dogs? This book got my attention from the very first, and I found myself practically devouring it. I couldn't read fast enough. It's that good. Now, just so nobody thinks this is a biased lovefest, I do have one small problem with Mr. Mouchet's writing. Willow's language leaves much to be desired. As my Grandmother would say, "Do you kiss your mama with that mouth?" I can do without that, but otherwise, the story is captivating. I also like that Mr. Mouchet keeps the readers out of his characters' bedrooms. There is plenty of heat between the main characters, but it is kept private, just like it should be. I will be looking for more of this series to enjoy and will just have to learn to overlook the language. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.
September 14, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I read this in preparation for reading an ARC of the second book.
I really enjoyed this book. There’s pieces that you can guess (or assume) along the way, but there’s still plenty of twists you don’t see coming. The book drew me in right away and none of it felt like it was dragging or filler.
The only thing I would have preferred is a little more build up with the romance. A little more flirtatious interactions between the main character would have made it seem like less of an afterthought.
The book was not terribly graphic with violence (there’s some mention of some pretty horrific stuff, but nothing too detailed). In terms of the romance, it was clean/close door.
The characters were likable and the book was well-paced. I’m really looking forward to reading the second book!
I read this in preparation for reading an ARC of the second book.
I really enjoyed this book. There’s pieces that you can guess (or assume) along the way, but there’s still plenty of twists you don’t see coming. The book drew me in right away and none of it felt like it was dragging or filler.
The only thing I would have preferred is a little more build up with the romance. A little more flirtatious interactions between the main character would have made it seem like less of an afterthought.
The book was not terribly graphic with violence (there’s some mention of some pretty horrific stuff, but nothing too detailed). In terms of the romance, it was clean/close door.
The characters were likable and the book was well-paced. I’m really looking forward to reading the second book!
October 15, 2025
📚 Violent Echoes by PJ Mouchet is a gritty, emotionally charged thriller that kicks off the Brooks & Banks series with serious impact.
FBI Agent Jackson Brooks is pulled back into a world he tried to leave behind, while Agent Willow Banks arrives with a haunted past—and a troubled K9 partner I absolutely loved. The dog isn’t just a sidekick; it’s a vital thread of heart and healing woven through the darkness.
What stood out:
• Complex, trauma-laced characters
• Tense pacing and high emotional stakes
• A redemptive K9 subplot that adds soul and softness
If you love thrillers with depth, justice that’s messy, and dogs that steal your heart, this one’s for you.
⚠️ Content warning: includes references to crimes against children and PTSD.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
FBI Agent Jackson Brooks is pulled back into a world he tried to leave behind, while Agent Willow Banks arrives with a haunted past—and a troubled K9 partner I absolutely loved. The dog isn’t just a sidekick; it’s a vital thread of heart and healing woven through the darkness.
What stood out:
• Complex, trauma-laced characters
• Tense pacing and high emotional stakes
• A redemptive K9 subplot that adds soul and softness
If you love thrillers with depth, justice that’s messy, and dogs that steal your heart, this one’s for you.
⚠️ Content warning: includes references to crimes against children and PTSD.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
The layers of twistiness and seeming complexity to this mystery really kept me turning the pages - I literally read it in one sitting!
Who can you trust? Who is corrupt? Who are the REAL villains…?
It seems fairly straightforward in chapter 1 but as the story unfolds it gains ever more layers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And despite all the violence and treachery, the book has a really wholesome secondary plot line on the personal side. I mean, what DID happen to Agent Brooks' father?
Who can you trust? Who is corrupt? Who are the REAL villains…?
It seems fairly straightforward in chapter 1 but as the story unfolds it gains ever more layers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
And despite all the violence and treachery, the book has a really wholesome secondary plot line on the personal side. I mean, what DID happen to Agent Brooks' father?
October 9, 2025
The small-town Alabama setting was such a great contrast too. On the surface, Florence looks quiet and safe, but underneath it’s crawling with corruption and violence. That clash really cranked up the tension.
The story moves fast—right from the opening murders, it just keeps building. No long stretches of filler, which I loved. And the theme hit hard: the real monsters aren’t hiding in shadows, they’re standing right in front of us. It definitely kept me guessing about who I could trust.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story moves fast—right from the opening murders, it just keeps building. No long stretches of filler, which I loved. And the theme hit hard: the real monsters aren’t hiding in shadows, they’re standing right in front of us. It definitely kept me guessing about who I could trust.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 27, 2025
Holy moly. I am REELING over this book. I do have to say, if you care about animals at all, this is going to get you. Bring tissue. I've always wanted to work with animals. I did a little at one point, not to the point of Jax, but a little. My heart….. for Ranger and I bawled through this whole book. It's an incredible story though. The more stuff unravels, the more you get hooked. I couldn't put it down. The dogs play an important role as well and they quickly become part of your heart. Because they are really like described in the book. What a story. So incredibly good
September 10, 2025
Violent Echoes is a breath of fresh air in the police procedural genre. I have read a dozen that have just mimicked television shows. Playing on the same dynamics over and over.
This novel was new, twisty and engaging. Painting scenes, character development, I stayed up past my bedtime to finish. Sincerely grateful for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy. These thoughts are my own and freely given.
This novel was new, twisty and engaging. Painting scenes, character development, I stayed up past my bedtime to finish. Sincerely grateful for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy. These thoughts are my own and freely given.
September 9, 2025
Loved it
Really enjoyed the story, such a page turner. Literally stayed up all night wanting to know what happened and it was all worth it. Loved the dynamic between the two FMC and MMC and their K9 Companion investigations. Deep twist and turns.
Really enjoyed the story, such a page turner. Literally stayed up all night wanting to know what happened and it was all worth it. Loved the dynamic between the two FMC and MMC and their K9 Companion investigations. Deep twist and turns.
October 8, 2025
I had not read anything by this author before, but I thought it sounded interesting. Needless to the chores took a back seat for a couple of days. Kept going back and reading one more chapter. Already started book 2! It kept you guessing as to who to trust, not trust, believe, or not to believe.
June 16, 2025
6 Stars are not enough!
This was justified magic. How do you fix broken? Dogs are how, they know good from evil. Drugs are evil.
This was justified magic. How do you fix broken? Dogs are how, they know good from evil. Drugs are evil.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews