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Jack Daniels Thriller #2
Guter Bulle, böser Bulle (Ein Jack-Daniels-Thriller 2)
Man nehme eine taffe, aber verwundbare Polizistin aus Chicago und füge eine hyperaktive Katze, eine gesundheitlich angeschlagene Mutter, einen eifersüchtigen Freund, einen schwierigen Ex-Mann und einen Kollegen in den Fängen einer Midlife-Crisis hinzu.
Man mische diese Zutaten mit einem Psychopathen, der abgetrennte Körperteile in der Stadt verstreut, und würze das Ganze zu gleichen Teilen mit einer Prise Humor und einem Schuss Spannung, und fertig ist »Guter Bulle, böser Bulle« - der zweite Band in der witzigen und gleichzeitig furchterregenden Welt von Lieutenant Jacqueline »Jack« Daniels.
Begleiten Sie Jack bei ihren Abenteuern, während sie mit den Herausforderungen eines chaotischen und aus der Spur geratenen Privatlebens kämpft und gleichzeitig einen der gefährlichsten Serienmörder der jüngsten Zeit aufspüren und hinter Schloss und Riegel bringen will - einen Mörder, für den es erst richtig losgeht, wenn man ihn erwischt hat ...
433 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2005
1634 people are currently reading
3275 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Konrath
198 books3,016 followersJoe Konrath has written over twenty novels in the Lt. Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels thriller series. They do not have to be read chronologically to be enjoyed, but the order is: Whiskey Sour, Bloody Mary, Rusty Nail, Dirty Martini, Shot of Tequila, Fuzzy Navel, Cherry Bomb, Dead On My Feet, Serial Killers Uncut (with Blake Crouch), Shaken, Stirred (with Blake Crouch), Dying Breath, Everybody Dies, Rum Runner, Last Call, White Russian, Shot Girl, Chaser, Old Fashioned, Bite Force, and Witch Brew. More coming soon.
Wow, that's a lot of Jack.
If you like your thrillers on the dark side, check out the Konrath Dark Thriller Collective, which includes the books The List, Origin, Afraid, Trapped, Endurance, Haunted House, Webcam, Disturb, What Happened To Lori, The Nine, Second Coming, and Close Your Eyes.
Joe also wrote the Stop A Murder mystery puzzle series, where you become the sleuth and solve brain teasers to try and catch a killer.
He also wrote the sci-fi trilogy, Timecaster, Timecaster Supersymmetry, and Timecaster Steampunk. Even if you don't think you like sci-fi, give them a try. They feature Joe's well-known characters from his other series, and are insane.
With Ann Voss Peterson he wrote the Codename: Chandler thrillers, including Flee, Spree, Three, Hit, Exposed, Naughty, Fix (with F. Paul Wilson), Rescue, and Free.
And, finally, he writes erotica under the pen name Melinda DuChamp, also with Ann Voss Peterson. Those books are probably too spicy for you, so only the brave and bold should seek them out.
Joe writes a lot. You should probably read everything.
You can visit Joe and sign up for his newsletter at www.JAKonrath.com/mailing-list.php
Wow, that's a lot of Jack.
If you like your thrillers on the dark side, check out the Konrath Dark Thriller Collective, which includes the books The List, Origin, Afraid, Trapped, Endurance, Haunted House, Webcam, Disturb, What Happened To Lori, The Nine, Second Coming, and Close Your Eyes.
Joe also wrote the Stop A Murder mystery puzzle series, where you become the sleuth and solve brain teasers to try and catch a killer.
He also wrote the sci-fi trilogy, Timecaster, Timecaster Supersymmetry, and Timecaster Steampunk. Even if you don't think you like sci-fi, give them a try. They feature Joe's well-known characters from his other series, and are insane.
With Ann Voss Peterson he wrote the Codename: Chandler thrillers, including Flee, Spree, Three, Hit, Exposed, Naughty, Fix (with F. Paul Wilson), Rescue, and Free.
And, finally, he writes erotica under the pen name Melinda DuChamp, also with Ann Voss Peterson. Those books are probably too spicy for you, so only the brave and bold should seek them out.
Joe writes a lot. You should probably read everything.
You can visit Joe and sign up for his newsletter at www.JAKonrath.com/mailing-list.php
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 763 reviews
October 15, 2011
J.A. Konrath (aka Jack Kilborn) writes unhinged, serial-murdering nutbagaloons as good as anyone in crime/mystery and that’s what elevates this series above just another standard “also ran” of the genre. His bad guys jar you with their killings.
They torture.
They mutilate.
They dismember.
They even EAT .
They are designed to shock and they do their job proficiently, while Konrath enthusiastically delivers color commentary on the festivities like a hometown football announcer hopped up on caffeine.
The killer in this one is several shades of sicko worse than “The Gingerbread Man” from Whiskey Sour, which is saying something. Our psycho du jour suffers from debilitating headaches that only moderate after he has savagely ripped apart a human being, which he seriously loves to do. Add to this personality quirk that our mental case has a deep-seated hatred for our main character and the stage is set for another tension-filled, gruesome murder investigation.
Beyond that, this is an entertaining but very formulaic, garden-variety crime series with an engaging, but stereo-typical protagonist in the form of smart, hard-working, no frills Chicago homicide detective Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels. Jack is certainly likeable, but I wouldn’t tune in just to see what she’s up to as she constantly strives to balance her 80+ hour work weeks with some semblance of a social life with her very understanding boyfriend. This series isn’t about the main character like it in when I pick up the next Matt Scudder novel by Lawrence Block or Burke novel by Andrew Vachss. The Jack Daniels mysteries, so far at least, have all been about the bad guys.
Along with Jack and the truly excellent villains, the story includes a host of your usual genre staples:
* The overweight, good-natured partner with the heart of gold;
* The politically incorrect coroner making inappropriate stiff jokes;
* Healthy doses of police procedural and witness interrogations;
* Cat and mouse shenanigans between the cops and the killer;
* The career-minded DA looking for the next high profile case; and
* The lewd, shady ex-cop turned private investigator that seems to alternate between friend and foe.
Of course, even the to the standard fare, Konrath drops in his own little touches of depravity like the mild-mannered, corpse-banging mortician. You know, just to spice things up with a little kink.
Overall, this is a fun, fast, well written thriller, with some mood-lightening humor that is kept a cut above standard by the exceptional “nightmare-inducing” bad guys Konrath inflicts on us. The man has problems and I am a fan.
3.5 stars. Recommended.
They torture.
They mutilate.
They dismember.
They even EAT .
They are designed to shock and they do their job proficiently, while Konrath enthusiastically delivers color commentary on the festivities like a hometown football announcer hopped up on caffeine.
The killer in this one is several shades of sicko worse than “The Gingerbread Man” from Whiskey Sour, which is saying something. Our psycho du jour suffers from debilitating headaches that only moderate after he has savagely ripped apart a human being, which he seriously loves to do. Add to this personality quirk that our mental case has a deep-seated hatred for our main character and the stage is set for another tension-filled, gruesome murder investigation.
Beyond that, this is an entertaining but very formulaic, garden-variety crime series with an engaging, but stereo-typical protagonist in the form of smart, hard-working, no frills Chicago homicide detective Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels. Jack is certainly likeable, but I wouldn’t tune in just to see what she’s up to as she constantly strives to balance her 80+ hour work weeks with some semblance of a social life with her very understanding boyfriend. This series isn’t about the main character like it in when I pick up the next Matt Scudder novel by Lawrence Block or Burke novel by Andrew Vachss. The Jack Daniels mysteries, so far at least, have all been about the bad guys.
Along with Jack and the truly excellent villains, the story includes a host of your usual genre staples:
* The overweight, good-natured partner with the heart of gold;
* The politically incorrect coroner making inappropriate stiff jokes;
* Healthy doses of police procedural and witness interrogations;
* Cat and mouse shenanigans between the cops and the killer;
* The career-minded DA looking for the next high profile case; and
* The lewd, shady ex-cop turned private investigator that seems to alternate between friend and foe.
Of course, even the to the standard fare, Konrath drops in his own little touches of depravity like the mild-mannered, corpse-banging mortician. You know, just to spice things up with a little kink.
Overall, this is a fun, fast, well written thriller, with some mood-lightening humor that is kept a cut above standard by the exceptional “nightmare-inducing” bad guys Konrath inflicts on us. The man has problems and I am a fan.
3.5 stars. Recommended.
January 16, 2021
3.5. I love Jack and her personal relationships. I even love her interactions at work. The villain this time was a little formulaic. But the fact he has so much going right and they still make me giggle in public is impressive. On to the next!
November 13, 2024
Личният живот на лейтенант Джак Даниелс скапа малко вкуса на този, така популярен иначе коктейл.
Крими интригата обаче ми хареса, така че ще отпия и глътка "Ръсти нейл".
Крими интригата обаче ми хареса, така че ще отпия и глътка "Ръсти нейл".
December 24, 2017
I'm rewriting this because it doesn't matter what I put down, it doesn't come close to the blurb for this book.
It was great, very entertaining, interesting and a pleasure to read. What more can I say?
It was great, very entertaining, interesting and a pleasure to read. What more can I say?
May 6, 2017
I really enjoyed the first Jack Daniels book, but this one hit it big time!
Maybe it's because so much more happens in Jack's life this time, or maybe it's because the bad guy is seriously bad! Whatever the reason, this story is "cooking with gas". An ex-husband, a boyfriend, a former partner, and a mortician with seriously bad behavior.
This book also has a perfect example of why I'm a dog person.
I really like Jack. In many ways, she reminds me of my other favorite policewoman, Eve Dallas.
Maybe it's because so much more happens in Jack's life this time, or maybe it's because the bad guy is seriously bad! Whatever the reason, this story is "cooking with gas". An ex-husband, a boyfriend, a former partner, and a mortician with seriously bad behavior.
This book also has a perfect example of why I'm a dog person.
I really like Jack. In many ways, she reminds me of my other favorite policewoman, Eve Dallas.
November 13, 2011
If you thought “Whiskey Sour” was too violent (although this was tame compared to Blake Crouch) or if it was too graphic (seriously? Read Ed Lee if you want to be grossed out), then “Bloody Mary” is most assuredly not the book for you. Like any GOOD sequel, Jack is back, and this time there’s more blood, more gore, and enough action to keep even the most severe cases of ADHD entertained.
There’s always that worry about a “Sophomore slump” when it comes to sequels and new books, but that worry should be the furthest thing from anyone’s mind because “Bloody Mary” is not only a solid 2nd book in this series, it’s even better than the first.
Like I said, Jack Daniels is back, and better than ever. As is my style, I won’t give away and plot secrets or too many details (that’s why YOU need to READ this), but I will say that the villain in this one is bigger (literally), better, and badder (I know, not really a word) than the Gingerbread Man from “Whiskey”. Jack is better as well. She’s till dealing with her insomnia and personal problems, but like any tweaked protagonist, she’s the anti-hero you can’t help but root for.
What also makes “Bloody Mary” better than it’s predecessor is it’s pacing, it’s content, and it’s plot. “Whiskey” had all of those things, no doubt, but with this one, all of those characteristics are better. The writing is the same, but even quicker, as is the content,, although “Bloody Mary” lives up to it’s name in the bodily fluid factor. I enjoyed the plot on “Mary” better because what Konrath presents here, albeit a bit stretched and amped up, can be something totally plausible.
Like the first book, “Bloody Mary” will have it’s haters, but as I said in my last review, don’t take soccer-moms and uber-conservative critiques as anything serious. This novel was a powerhouse that is impossible to put down and keeps you wondering until the last second how Konrath will conclude. I cannot wait to read “Rusty Nail” because if these 2 are any indication, Konrath will deliver yet again.
There’s always that worry about a “Sophomore slump” when it comes to sequels and new books, but that worry should be the furthest thing from anyone’s mind because “Bloody Mary” is not only a solid 2nd book in this series, it’s even better than the first.
Like I said, Jack Daniels is back, and better than ever. As is my style, I won’t give away and plot secrets or too many details (that’s why YOU need to READ this), but I will say that the villain in this one is bigger (literally), better, and badder (I know, not really a word) than the Gingerbread Man from “Whiskey”. Jack is better as well. She’s till dealing with her insomnia and personal problems, but like any tweaked protagonist, she’s the anti-hero you can’t help but root for.
What also makes “Bloody Mary” better than it’s predecessor is it’s pacing, it’s content, and it’s plot. “Whiskey” had all of those things, no doubt, but with this one, all of those characteristics are better. The writing is the same, but even quicker, as is the content,, although “Bloody Mary” lives up to it’s name in the bodily fluid factor. I enjoyed the plot on “Mary” better because what Konrath presents here, albeit a bit stretched and amped up, can be something totally plausible.
Like the first book, “Bloody Mary” will have it’s haters, but as I said in my last review, don’t take soccer-moms and uber-conservative critiques as anything serious. This novel was a powerhouse that is impossible to put down and keeps you wondering until the last second how Konrath will conclude. I cannot wait to read “Rusty Nail” because if these 2 are any indication, Konrath will deliver yet again.
June 2, 2018
Woo hoo now you're talking. You can say whatever you like about this book except that it was boring. From the blurb - we have the "tough but vulnerable Jack, a hyperactive cat (actually I'd say it was channelling Cujo at times), an ailing mother, a jealous boyfriend, a high maintenance ex-husband and a partner in the throes of a mid-life crisis. Chuck is a really nasty serial killer (are any serial killers nice?) who has his sights set on Jack and you're in for a high octane and very funny romp indeed.
Oh that cat, it made me laugh. I've had cats for many years, although now we are a one dog household. That's because my two dearly departed cats used to terrorise that poor dog until they died. Now I just can't do it to her again. Whenever she sees a cat its panic stations. Mr Friskers from this book had elements of some of my cats. I love a cat with attitude - or is that cattitude?
Anyway, I really enjoyed this book. High art it is not but there's a lot going for it. I'll certainly be continuing this very entertaining series.
Oh that cat, it made me laugh. I've had cats for many years, although now we are a one dog household. That's because my two dearly departed cats used to terrorise that poor dog until they died. Now I just can't do it to her again. Whenever she sees a cat its panic stations. Mr Friskers from this book had elements of some of my cats. I love a cat with attitude - or is that cattitude?
Anyway, I really enjoyed this book. High art it is not but there's a lot going for it. I'll certainly be continuing this very entertaining series.
November 20, 2016
This is the second book of Jack Daniels mysteries series. This is the first time ever reading this author. I really enjoyed it. I will be reading the entire series.
June 11, 2021
"Wow Again" on this second installment in the Jack Daniels series!
A small backstory:
Jack is back! This time though she has to deal with a lot of home issues besides trying to track down another serial killer. This serial killer is almost as bad as the last one as he goes on a murdering spree and Jack has a hard time keeping up. Jack and Herb though get a shock when they realize that the killer could very well be someone they know and is closer to them than they think.
Is the killer someone they know? What has triggered this killer to murdering people? Does Jack and Herb catch the killer before it is too late? No spoilers here as you will just have to read the book!
Thoughts:
Another stellar read from this author and I was on the edge of my seat through most of the book! More humorous quips are tossed between Jack and Herb which gave me the chuckles here and there throughout the book.
The action is fast paced and there were some twists and turns throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book in the series! Giving this one five "Murdering Maniac" stars!
A small backstory:
Jack is back! This time though she has to deal with a lot of home issues besides trying to track down another serial killer. This serial killer is almost as bad as the last one as he goes on a murdering spree and Jack has a hard time keeping up. Jack and Herb though get a shock when they realize that the killer could very well be someone they know and is closer to them than they think.
Is the killer someone they know? What has triggered this killer to murdering people? Does Jack and Herb catch the killer before it is too late? No spoilers here as you will just have to read the book!
Thoughts:
Another stellar read from this author and I was on the edge of my seat through most of the book! More humorous quips are tossed between Jack and Herb which gave me the chuckles here and there throughout the book.
The action is fast paced and there were some twists and turns throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book in the series! Giving this one five "Murdering Maniac" stars!
March 10, 2012
What can I say here? "Over all", "on the whole" I like this book and the one that came before it. I like the chase. I like the investigation. I "MOSTLY" like Jack.
I like Jack's new cat.
I plan to get the next book (in fact I've already sent for it).
The problem is there are so many things I don't like that I can't justify giving more than a three star rating.
Mr. Konrath has a gift for giving us the thought processes of his maniacs. This doesn't bother me. I don't however enjoy detailed descriptions of what said maniac is doing with his tools of the trade. Long detailed scenes of bloody, gory, perverse murder, rape etc aren't what I read for. I tend to skip over much of this. On the "brighter side" I think there was a bit less of the graphic stuff here than there was in Whiskey Sour.
Aside from this we moved WAY over into the realm of romance and emotional angst here.
OR
Another side issue, I almost hate Harry McGlade..I detest the guy, I don't like him. If I want to read about Harry McGlade Konrath has books about the guy. I wish we could simply drop the character from his appearances here.
Need I go on?
So, bottom line I "mostly" like the books and will probably continue to get them, at least in audio as they are light and require little thought. Do I recommend them? I recommend you try the first for yourself as I like a lot about these but not all. See what you think for yourself.
Be aware if you don't like or worse can't stand graphic violence and blood these probably won't be your cup of tea, Still, pretty good character development (for brain junk food) and a story that holds together.
3 stars.
I like Jack's new cat.
I plan to get the next book (in fact I've already sent for it).
The problem is there are so many things I don't like that I can't justify giving more than a three star rating.
Mr. Konrath has a gift for giving us the thought processes of his maniacs. This doesn't bother me. I don't however enjoy detailed descriptions of what said maniac is doing with his tools of the trade. Long detailed scenes of bloody, gory, perverse murder, rape etc aren't what I read for. I tend to skip over much of this. On the "brighter side" I think there was a bit less of the graphic stuff here than there was in Whiskey Sour.
Aside from this we moved WAY over into the realm of romance and emotional angst here.
OR
Another side issue, I almost hate Harry McGlade..I detest the guy, I don't like him. If I want to read about Harry McGlade Konrath has books about the guy. I wish we could simply drop the character from his appearances here.
Need I go on?
So, bottom line I "mostly" like the books and will probably continue to get them, at least in audio as they are light and require little thought. Do I recommend them? I recommend you try the first for yourself as I like a lot about these but not all. See what you think for yourself.
Be aware if you don't like or worse can't stand graphic violence and blood these probably won't be your cup of tea, Still, pretty good character development (for brain junk food) and a story that holds together.
3 stars.
February 7, 2019
I love this book. I find the humor that comes from Jack and her co worker amazing. Jack had a hard decision to make when her mom fell and broke her hip. Her mom didn't talk to her for a long time. When Jack was injured on the job trying to stop a killer, her mom come from Florida to move in with Jack. When her mom showed up at the apartment she had Jack's ex-husband with her and tried to hook them back up.
Jack had to go to court to testify against a fellow cop and killer. He was set free and come after Jack and hurt her mom pretty badly and killed her mom's boyfriend. Jack manages to kill Fuller and save her partner/best friend.
I'm enjoying the series and can't wait to read the next one.
Jack had to go to court to testify against a fellow cop and killer. He was set free and come after Jack and hurt her mom pretty badly and killed her mom's boyfriend. Jack manages to kill Fuller and save her partner/best friend.
I'm enjoying the series and can't wait to read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2016
The second book in the series about Jack Daniels. It was a good one! A new villain in this one with another good storyline. It was a thriller/comedy, but not too much graphic violence. I literally laughed out loud and thought Mr. Friskers was hysterical. I also enjoyed the inclusion of her mother and all those escapades. The ex husband, Alan, found his way in as well, but the author didn't really "do" the whole love triangle thing. I will have to read on to see what happens there. Recommended!
September 28, 2019
WOW! What an intense story!!
If you like graphic thrillers then you really need to read this series, but especially this book! Everyone gets their asses kicked in this one. Many people die. There is some graphic nastiness that goes on, but it's a real page turner for me. I just couldn't get enough!
Jack Daniels is bad ass!!
Herb, her partner, is bad ass too!
But Jack, she really is smart and can figure out things that other cops just don't see. Herb has a set of balls on him and is fiercely loyal. They make a great team!
I have the next one in the series, and I really look forward to reading it!
If you like graphic thrillers then you really need to read this series, but especially this book! Everyone gets their asses kicked in this one. Many people die. There is some graphic nastiness that goes on, but it's a real page turner for me. I just couldn't get enough!
Jack Daniels is bad ass!!
Herb, her partner, is bad ass too!
But Jack, she really is smart and can figure out things that other cops just don't see. Herb has a set of balls on him and is fiercely loyal. They make a great team!
I have the next one in the series, and I really look forward to reading it!
April 8, 2014
4.5*
The second in the Jack Daniels series and it's another really solid read from Konrath. This ended up being a very quick read for me, it was light, easy to get through and mixes both thriller and comedy to great success.
Perfect holiday reading and one that begs you to pick up the next instalment in the series.
Recommended.
The second in the Jack Daniels series and it's another really solid read from Konrath. This ended up being a very quick read for me, it was light, easy to get through and mixes both thriller and comedy to great success.
Perfect holiday reading and one that begs you to pick up the next instalment in the series.
Recommended.
October 23, 2014
Another good, fun mystery & thriller from Konrath. There's plenty of humor in the interplay between the characters, but also a lot of horror in the story itself. Great combination. I look forward to reading the next.
March 5, 2014
Second in the series, I like the fact that Jack (Jacqueline) Daniels is the highest ranking woman in the Chicago Police Department and she's more than competent.
This series though is just a bit less than sophisticated and smart than I am used to reading. They're not cheesy but just this side of cheesy in my opinion. But they are NOT cozies, too much violence for a cozy. This one just hit shy of my yuck factor.
I like my police detective series to be more edgy, that's all. But I'm probably in the minority here...that wouldn't surprise me at all.
Like I said though, it's good to see Jack in action. That chick can hold her own in any given situation even pool rooms swilling beer with the guys.
Oh, I think I like the first one better, too, so maybe this one was just not to my liking as much as the first one. I will continue with the series though because I do like it that much.
This series though is just a bit less than sophisticated and smart than I am used to reading. They're not cheesy but just this side of cheesy in my opinion. But they are NOT cozies, too much violence for a cozy. This one just hit shy of my yuck factor.
I like my police detective series to be more edgy, that's all. But I'm probably in the minority here...that wouldn't surprise me at all.
Like I said though, it's good to see Jack in action. That chick can hold her own in any given situation even pool rooms swilling beer with the guys.
Oh, I think I like the first one better, too, so maybe this one was just not to my liking as much as the first one. I will continue with the series though because I do like it that much.
June 19, 2019
A Not Guilty by reason of insanity verdict does NOT mean the defendant walks free. They are confined in a state psychiatric hospital with no end in sight is what happens.
This was not an improvement from book one. His books are named after mixed drinks. Well the mix of sadistic violence and humor is not a good drink. The violence is gruesome in the extreme then the next page is filled with one line jokes. It just doesn't mix. Jack and Herb are caricatures and not a true description of how police officers act. The pacing was fast and furious which made it an easy read but not a book i would recommend.
This was not an improvement from book one. His books are named after mixed drinks. Well the mix of sadistic violence and humor is not a good drink. The violence is gruesome in the extreme then the next page is filled with one line jokes. It just doesn't mix. Jack and Herb are caricatures and not a true description of how police officers act. The pacing was fast and furious which made it an easy read but not a book i would recommend.
June 26, 2016
Audio book performed by Dick Hill and Susie Breck (who is not credited on the cover)
Second in a series. It starts when Chicago Police Lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels gets a report of extra body parts appearing at the Cook County Morgue. When she and her partner go to investigate, they discover two severed arms, linked by handcuffs – Jack’s handcuffs. Soon the police discover what the reader knows already – there’s a maniacally clever serial killer on the loose. And he has special plans for Jack Daniels.
Konrath writes a thrilling tale that moves quickly and keeps the reader turning pages (or changing CDs). I like that Lieutenant Daniels is strong and self-sufficient. I’m not so keen on her wishy-washy attitude towards the men in her life. There are a few unnecessary distractions – what’s with the crazy guy in the restaurant? And I thought the ending was somewhat rushed. But on the whole the work is tightly written and I was happy to go along for the ride.
Dick Hill and Susie Breck do a good job performing the CD. Hill is appropriately gruff or oily, depending on the male he is voicing. Brecht is great as Jack Daniels. Both read with a good pace, keeping the listener interested.
Second in a series. It starts when Chicago Police Lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels gets a report of extra body parts appearing at the Cook County Morgue. When she and her partner go to investigate, they discover two severed arms, linked by handcuffs – Jack’s handcuffs. Soon the police discover what the reader knows already – there’s a maniacally clever serial killer on the loose. And he has special plans for Jack Daniels.
Konrath writes a thrilling tale that moves quickly and keeps the reader turning pages (or changing CDs). I like that Lieutenant Daniels is strong and self-sufficient. I’m not so keen on her wishy-washy attitude towards the men in her life. There are a few unnecessary distractions – what’s with the crazy guy in the restaurant? And I thought the ending was somewhat rushed. But on the whole the work is tightly written and I was happy to go along for the ride.
Dick Hill and Susie Breck do a good job performing the CD. Hill is appropriately gruff or oily, depending on the male he is voicing. Brecht is great as Jack Daniels. Both read with a good pace, keeping the listener interested.
April 3, 2013
Well, I said I would give this series a second chance. Book two starring Chicago cop 'Jack' Daniels just wasn't for me. While I think Jack is a great protagonist, I just can't get past the gruesome details the author likes to Include. Like the first book in the series, Whiskey Sour, some of the story is from the perspective of the serial killer. I really don't want to read about him fantasizing about peeling someone's face off. No thanks. There's also sex with corpses which apparently isn't against the law!
I just reread my review of the first book and I guess I found parts of it pretty funny. I did not have the same experience here. It was mostly about her angst-filled relationships with her boyfriend, her partner and her mother. Oh, and her ex-husband. There were a couple of scenes with a crazed cat but there weren't all that funny.
Next, we have the serial killer. This is the second serial killer who has targeted Jack. I wonder how often that really happens to cops. Twice in less than a year! Sadly, I guess I'm done with this series.
I just reread my review of the first book and I guess I found parts of it pretty funny. I did not have the same experience here. It was mostly about her angst-filled relationships with her boyfriend, her partner and her mother. Oh, and her ex-husband. There were a couple of scenes with a crazed cat but there weren't all that funny.
Next, we have the serial killer. This is the second serial killer who has targeted Jack. I wonder how often that really happens to cops. Twice in less than a year! Sadly, I guess I'm done with this series.
December 10, 2018
Mini-Review:
Being jaded sucks! I hoped that I could use this series as one of my fun fillers between other books because the narrators are really great. The narrators are still great. I loved the narration. Once I got used to the narrators, I started to pay more attention to the story.
I like Jack Daniels and the off-beat humor, but the formula for the plot is the same and very little progress happens for the character. This is not a series about superheroes. Jack is a smart cop who is over stressed, has PTSD and a growing list of physical injuries. It's cool that she's human but she makes a ton of negative decisions and it seems like the only reason that she solves a case is due to extreme luck.
I've read stories with negative characters. That's not the problem. I don't like the setup where the author states the character is smart & capable and always shows her to be incompetent in just about everything she does from work to home. Meh.
Being jaded sucks! I hoped that I could use this series as one of my fun fillers between other books because the narrators are really great. The narrators are still great. I loved the narration. Once I got used to the narrators, I started to pay more attention to the story.
I like Jack Daniels and the off-beat humor, but the formula for the plot is the same and very little progress happens for the character. This is not a series about superheroes. Jack is a smart cop who is over stressed, has PTSD and a growing list of physical injuries. It's cool that she's human but she makes a ton of negative decisions and it seems like the only reason that she solves a case is due to extreme luck.
I've read stories with negative characters. That's not the problem. I don't like the setup where the author states the character is smart & capable and always shows her to be incompetent in just about everything she does from work to home. Meh.
September 13, 2013
A sick killer causes Lieutenant Jacqueline “Jack” Daniels a major headache by attaching her possessions to the removed body parts of his victims. Bu who is close enough to her to have access to her belongings? Jack Daniels is in her forties, tough and as unlikely a heroine as you’re likely to find. Her personal problems constantly get in her way, particularly her aging sex-mad mother, her tangled love life and her partner, Herb, who is suffering a mid-life crisis of epic proportions. Is it more comedy or thriller? You’ll have to read it to make up your own mind. Overall it is an easy entertaining read. It never veers into glorified detail of the sick nature of the crimes but lets your imagination do the work for you. It has an agreeable mix of humour, mystery and thrills to keep you reading from page one to the climactic end.
March 15, 2014
Joe Konrath is a talented writer. This is the third book I've read of his and I can't wait to read many more. I'm reading the Jack Daniels Series out of order, and it doesn't matter, I'm never lost during the plots in the book. Like the other books in the series, there is lots of action and suspense, some blood and gore, and a touch of mystery. Just when you think the case is solved and the book is done--BAM! He hits you with a twist to keep you wondering what will happen next. What is also refreshing is that a lot of his main characters, the good guys, do get hurt or even killed. It makes his writing completely unpredictable. I would highly recommend this series.
February 12, 2016
I first met Jacqueline "JACK" Daniels during the read of SHOT OF TEQUILA... Then the book after that was "Whisky Sour" where Jack is now a Lieutenant-- I loved the two prior books and Bloody Mary was just as good... NOT for the 'faint of heart' BUT, I have to say- during the worse of the worse of crimes and serial killers- she does, at times make me laugh! It is a great series.... I read ALL series from book one- so I would with this one as well-- but from what I do understand J.A. Konrath says that you don't have to---- but me, I read them from book 1 .... great book- great read- and looking forward to the next one.... xx
July 21, 2018
This book has one seriously good villain. He's vicious, crazed, and entirely off his nut. There's a fair amount of carnage. Aside from this being a good book, that might be what stands out the most for me. For all of the villain's rampaging badness, Konrath manages to write everything in a way that is neither too graphic or distasteful. I would have thought it a fine line to navigate, but he does it will skill and subtly. The end result is a compelling book with one hell of a whack-a-do antagonist and a plot that doesn't lose the audience in the unpleasant and unnecessary details of that character's acts.
August 22, 2019
Holla, die Waldfee - das ging ja mal richtig zur Sache.
Nachdem ich den ersten Teil der Reihe zwar recht gut fand, aber nicht überwältigend, hab ich von der Reihe erst mal ein wenig Abstand genommen.
Nun habe ich aber doch zum 2. Band gegriffen und habe es nicht bereut.
Das Buch ist der Hammer - gleich von Beginn an geht es richtig zur Sache, alles entwickelt sich rasant schnell, aber man kann trotzdem alles verfolgen.
Zur Hälfte etwa denkt man sich - "Hey, Morde aufgeklärt, Täter gefasst - und nun?" - aber jetzt geht es erst richtig zur Sache, um schließlich in einem fulminanten Ende zu gipfelt.
Ich habe es wahrhaft weg gesuchtet, der nächste Band wird sicher nicht sonderlich lange warten müssen.
Nachdem ich den ersten Teil der Reihe zwar recht gut fand, aber nicht überwältigend, hab ich von der Reihe erst mal ein wenig Abstand genommen.
Nun habe ich aber doch zum 2. Band gegriffen und habe es nicht bereut.
Das Buch ist der Hammer - gleich von Beginn an geht es richtig zur Sache, alles entwickelt sich rasant schnell, aber man kann trotzdem alles verfolgen.
Zur Hälfte etwa denkt man sich - "Hey, Morde aufgeklärt, Täter gefasst - und nun?" - aber jetzt geht es erst richtig zur Sache, um schließlich in einem fulminanten Ende zu gipfelt.
Ich habe es wahrhaft weg gesuchtet, der nächste Band wird sicher nicht sonderlich lange warten müssen.
May 26, 2022
Bloody Mary by J.A. Konraath is the 2nd book in the Jacqueline "Jack" Daniels Thriller series. A psychopathic killer starts leaving body parts in the morgue, while also taunting Lietenant Jack Daniels by leaving items linked to her. Jack has a lot going on with dealing with her partner going through a mid life crisis, helping her mother after a fall, as well as balancing her boyfriend and exhusband. I loved the psycho cat. Entertaining as well as chilling and creepy. Very enjoyable, fast paced with lots of action and gore.
August 20, 2014
‘Bloody Mary’ is absolutely hilarious. It also will be horrific and shocking for those innocents in society oblivious of the minds and activities going on around them by those who are twisted and murderous. For the sensitive in the world, you will never never never get through a book or series like this and you will have nightmares if you attempt more than a couple of pages. Personally, I have never read such a black comedy series as this that somehow maintains a coherent plot and a consistent believability throughout. (Usually dark ridiculousness is played strictly for laughs, puns and sight gags, which tend to break up the story into a series of related skits that may or may not move the story forward.) Also, the author J. A. Konrath has an extremely distinctive writing style as well, sort of a combination of American verbal shorthand referencing cultural cool detachment and detective genre irony. I’m not sure how the humor will translate for readers from different countries.
There was an alcoholic in my family, and she had interesting boyfriends due to her desperate need to find men who would finance her addiction. For me, the people Jacqueline Daniels, Chicago Violent Crimes Unit chief detective, and her partner, Detective First Class Herb Benedict, meet during the course of solving murders are not entirely fictional or exaggerated by much.
This time, Daniels and her department have an interesting problem. Cook County Morgue needs the assistance of Violent Crimes in identifying a pair of handcuffed arms. Since the morgue deals in bodies and body parts, this is a peculiar request at first - until Phil Blasky, the Chief Medical Examiner, explains no one checked the arms in, and there is no body that the arms match. Even stranger, the handcuffs on the wrists of the arms belong to Jack (Jacqueline).
The following dialogue will either have you groaning wryly, or outraged. I think if it strikes you as disgusting or disrespectful, put this book down and move along to the next one in your stack.
“”I suspect an axe.” Phil poked at the wound with a gloved finger. “See the mark along the humerus, here? It took two swings to sever the appendage.”
“It doesn’t look humorous to me.” Benedict had snuck up behind us.
“Funny,” Phil said. “Never heard that one before, working with dead bodies for twenty years. Next will you make some kind of gimme a hand joke?”
“I did that one already,” Herb said. “How about: It appears the suspect has been disarmed?”
“She was always such a cut-up?”
“Would you like a shoulder to cry on?”
“Can I go out on a limb here?”
“At least she’ll get severance pay?”
Phil cocked an eyebrow at Herb.
“Severance?” Herb said. “Sever?”
I tuned out their act and got a closer look at the arms.””
That is how the entire book treats horrible and deadly scenes of extreme pathos, fear, violence and grief, yet the involved characters definitely are serious about finding the bad guys and finding justice for the victims. Despite the comedy, I never thought Daniels or her detectives did not care about the victims or lacked sympathy. Instead, I felt this is how these people handle the dreadful harsh manner of the murders they see every day. My only complaint is the speed by which the cases of this series resolve is VERY quick. Murderers tend to show themselves early in the book and decompensate so fast they are committing murders very recklessly by the midpoint. It does mean the books are a touch breezy and quick, but that makes it a perfect beach read…..as long as extremely graphic mutilations are ok with you.
There are chic-lit family problems which lighten the atmosphere between the discovery of tortured or shot bodies - Jack’s mother is at the falling stage of aging, so the question comes up whether mom should move in to Jack’s apartment, and Jack’s ex-husband and new boyfriend end up sparring, and there is an unexpectedly orphaned cat that Jack reluctantly adopts (always a positive to me).
I’m interested enough to continue reading the series, and for whatever casual, if black-humored, entertainment that this series is, it’s successful, but I think taking breaks between books is advisable. The murdering maniacs are not the problem, but the otherwise spot-on excellent jokes made me somewhat weary if I read too much at one sitting.
There was an alcoholic in my family, and she had interesting boyfriends due to her desperate need to find men who would finance her addiction. For me, the people Jacqueline Daniels, Chicago Violent Crimes Unit chief detective, and her partner, Detective First Class Herb Benedict, meet during the course of solving murders are not entirely fictional or exaggerated by much.
This time, Daniels and her department have an interesting problem. Cook County Morgue needs the assistance of Violent Crimes in identifying a pair of handcuffed arms. Since the morgue deals in bodies and body parts, this is a peculiar request at first - until Phil Blasky, the Chief Medical Examiner, explains no one checked the arms in, and there is no body that the arms match. Even stranger, the handcuffs on the wrists of the arms belong to Jack (Jacqueline).
The following dialogue will either have you groaning wryly, or outraged. I think if it strikes you as disgusting or disrespectful, put this book down and move along to the next one in your stack.
“”I suspect an axe.” Phil poked at the wound with a gloved finger. “See the mark along the humerus, here? It took two swings to sever the appendage.”
“It doesn’t look humorous to me.” Benedict had snuck up behind us.
“Funny,” Phil said. “Never heard that one before, working with dead bodies for twenty years. Next will you make some kind of gimme a hand joke?”
“I did that one already,” Herb said. “How about: It appears the suspect has been disarmed?”
“She was always such a cut-up?”
“Would you like a shoulder to cry on?”
“Can I go out on a limb here?”
“At least she’ll get severance pay?”
Phil cocked an eyebrow at Herb.
“Severance?” Herb said. “Sever?”
I tuned out their act and got a closer look at the arms.””
That is how the entire book treats horrible and deadly scenes of extreme pathos, fear, violence and grief, yet the involved characters definitely are serious about finding the bad guys and finding justice for the victims. Despite the comedy, I never thought Daniels or her detectives did not care about the victims or lacked sympathy. Instead, I felt this is how these people handle the dreadful harsh manner of the murders they see every day. My only complaint is the speed by which the cases of this series resolve is VERY quick. Murderers tend to show themselves early in the book and decompensate so fast they are committing murders very recklessly by the midpoint. It does mean the books are a touch breezy and quick, but that makes it a perfect beach read…..as long as extremely graphic mutilations are ok with you.
There are chic-lit family problems which lighten the atmosphere between the discovery of tortured or shot bodies - Jack’s mother is at the falling stage of aging, so the question comes up whether mom should move in to Jack’s apartment, and Jack’s ex-husband and new boyfriend end up sparring, and there is an unexpectedly orphaned cat that Jack reluctantly adopts (always a positive to me).
I’m interested enough to continue reading the series, and for whatever casual, if black-humored, entertainment that this series is, it’s successful, but I think taking breaks between books is advisable. The murdering maniacs are not the problem, but the otherwise spot-on excellent jokes made me somewhat weary if I read too much at one sitting.
November 12, 2016
Bloody Mary
3.5 Stars
A serial killer is on the loose in Chicago, kidnapping and mutilating, his victims. The details of the crimes soon have Lieutenant Jack Daniels and her stalwart partner hot on his trail, but the revelation of his identity is only the beginning as this vicious killer has a diabolical plan to escape justice …
A chilling sequel with just the right amount of action, suspense and humor. That said, the first half of the story involving the murders and investigation is better than the second once’s the killer’s identity comes to light even though it is quite obvious who he is
The mystery is intense and gripping although the descriptions of the murders and the villain’s internal musing are gritty and gruesome The fact that he is only exacerbates the heinous nature of his crimes and highlights the fact that he is pure evil.
Much of the book is dedicated to developments in Jack’s personal life. While she is a very appealing heroine, there is a great deal of angst in her relationships with her partner, mother, boyfriend and ex-husband. The antics of Mr. Whiskers, Jack’s accidental feline acquisition, provides some much needed comic relief in this area and he is, without a doubt, the true hero of the story.
Dick Hill and Susie Breck’s dual narration is fantastic, especially when it comes to the banter between Jack and Herb.
All in all, a solid sequel although it is not recommended for readers not into gratuitous violence or excessive gore in their reading material.
3.5 Stars
A serial killer is on the loose in Chicago, kidnapping and mutilating, his victims. The details of the crimes soon have Lieutenant Jack Daniels and her stalwart partner hot on his trail, but the revelation of his identity is only the beginning as this vicious killer has a diabolical plan to escape justice …
A chilling sequel with just the right amount of action, suspense and humor. That said, the first half of the story involving the murders and investigation is better than the second once’s the killer’s identity comes to light even though it is quite obvious who he is
The mystery is intense and gripping although the descriptions of the murders and the villain’s internal musing are gritty and gruesome The fact that he is only exacerbates the heinous nature of his crimes and highlights the fact that he is pure evil.
Much of the book is dedicated to developments in Jack’s personal life. While she is a very appealing heroine, there is a great deal of angst in her relationships with her partner, mother, boyfriend and ex-husband. The antics of Mr. Whiskers, Jack’s accidental feline acquisition, provides some much needed comic relief in this area and he is, without a doubt, the true hero of the story.
Dick Hill and Susie Breck’s dual narration is fantastic, especially when it comes to the banter between Jack and Herb.
All in all, a solid sequel although it is not recommended for readers not into gratuitous violence or excessive gore in their reading material.
January 2, 2018
First book of 2018 and we're off to a good start! I take my series slow, preferring to space out the books by quite a long ways and enjoy it longer than reading them all back to back. So it's been a bit of time since I read Whiskey Sour and I wasn't sure how I'd end up feeling about the second book, Bloody Mary.
What I found is a super fast paced murder mystery with great side stories about the characters aside from their police work. I even laughed out loud a couple times, something unexpected for a book that didn't lack gore filled death scenes. There were a couple places where I rolled my eyes because let's be honest, the author is a man writing a female main character and men are notorious for...being themselves. But overall, I did find Jack to be really likable in all her flaws and a badass on top of that.
Definitely continuing on to the third book in the series at some point.
What I found is a super fast paced murder mystery with great side stories about the characters aside from their police work. I even laughed out loud a couple times, something unexpected for a book that didn't lack gore filled death scenes. There were a couple places where I rolled my eyes because let's be honest, the author is a man writing a female main character and men are notorious for...being themselves. But overall, I did find Jack to be really likable in all her flaws and a badass on top of that.
Definitely continuing on to the third book in the series at some point.
September 21, 2017
My second foray into this series was just as much fun as the first. Jack Daniels is a snarky, insomniac cop and this time there are a few extra body parts showing up in the morgue. It quickly becomes apparent that someone is taunting Jack. Jack is also having some personal issues - her boyfriend is pressing her to move in with him, her mom has health problems that she doesn't want to face, and her ex-husband has shown up with the intention of attempting to rekindle their relationship. Throw in a partner in the throes of a mid-life crisis and it's more than enough for a gritty yet humorous mystery. I'm looking forward to knocking back another with Jack - sooner rather than later.
Quote to remember:
If you're stuck in hell, you might as well roast some marshmallows.
Quote to remember:
If you're stuck in hell, you might as well roast some marshmallows.
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