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Nils Shapiro #5
Dark Humor
Nils Shapiro embarks on an international quest to avenge his wife’s murder in this gripping, emotionally charged thriller from New York Times bestselling and Emmy Award-winning author Matt Goldman.
“Irreverent and insightful, private detective Nils Shapiro is sure to become a fan favorite” –HARLAN COBEN, New York Times bestselling author
“I want more of Nils Shapiro” –LEE CHILD, New York Times bestselling author
Sammy Sykes is evading the law—and justice.
Nils is on a mission to hunt down Sammy Sykes, the drug kingpin responsible for the ambush that led to his wife’s death two years ago. Despite the efforts of local law enforcement and the FBI, Sammy is still on the loose.
It’s time for Nils to take the law into his own hands.
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison gifts him a lead that’s impossible to ignore. Resuming his life as a private investigator, Nils goes deep undercover. Fueled by revenge and a deep sense of justice, Nils’ pursuit of Sammy takes him all the way from Minnesota to Europe, where his survival skills—and resolve—are put to the ultimate test . . .
A page-turning detective novel written in Matt Goldman’s unique, sharp style. The long-awaited return of beloved private eye Nils Shapiro is perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, Robert Crais, and Harlan Coben.
“Irreverent and insightful, private detective Nils Shapiro is sure to become a fan favorite” –HARLAN COBEN, New York Times bestselling author
“I want more of Nils Shapiro” –LEE CHILD, New York Times bestselling author
Sammy Sykes is evading the law—and justice.
Nils is on a mission to hunt down Sammy Sykes, the drug kingpin responsible for the ambush that led to his wife’s death two years ago. Despite the efforts of local law enforcement and the FBI, Sammy is still on the loose.
It’s time for Nils to take the law into his own hands.
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison gifts him a lead that’s impossible to ignore. Resuming his life as a private investigator, Nils goes deep undercover. Fueled by revenge and a deep sense of justice, Nils’ pursuit of Sammy takes him all the way from Minnesota to Europe, where his survival skills—and resolve—are put to the ultimate test . . .
A page-turning detective novel written in Matt Goldman’s unique, sharp style. The long-awaited return of beloved private eye Nils Shapiro is perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, Robert Crais, and Harlan Coben.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published December 2, 2025
45 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 26, 2025
Nils Shapiro is on a quest to avenge the death of his wife some two years ago. The man he holds responsible is Sammy Sykes, the drug kingpin whose ambush resulted in Daniella being shot and killed. Sykes disappeared and despite the efforts of law enforcement he’s still out there somewhere.
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison, results in a lead Nils can’t ignore, so he resumes his life as a private investigator and begins his search for Sammy Sykes. Leaving his young daughter Evelyn in the good care of his first wife, his search takes him from Minnesota to Europe, and undoubtedly on his most dangerous assignment to date.
I hadn’t read anything by author Matt Goldman prior to this one, and I have to say it had me gripped. Taut and emotionally charged, it’s a complex but clever story. It is superbly paced, and has some really strong and interesting characters, and is, in short, a brilliant story, told by a writer who appears to be very popular. Mr Goldman just gained another fan! Recommended.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison, results in a lead Nils can’t ignore, so he resumes his life as a private investigator and begins his search for Sammy Sykes. Leaving his young daughter Evelyn in the good care of his first wife, his search takes him from Minnesota to Europe, and undoubtedly on his most dangerous assignment to date.
I hadn’t read anything by author Matt Goldman prior to this one, and I have to say it had me gripped. Taut and emotionally charged, it’s a complex but clever story. It is superbly paced, and has some really strong and interesting characters, and is, in short, a brilliant story, told by a writer who appears to be very popular. Mr Goldman just gained another fan! Recommended.
*Thank you to Severn House for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
December 2, 2025
Much thanks for this gripping, much-appreciated advance ARC from NetGalley and Severn House. I was not aware of Matt Goldman's thrillers, and this is my first book featuring Nils Shapiro. I have discovered my current favourite mystery/thrillers through NetGalley and Goodreads reviews. I have added author Matt Goldman and his Nils Shapiro series to my list of must-read books.
This was a character-driven book with a clever, complex, and emotional plotline. The pace was brisk and intense, tinged with melancholy. The location moved from Minnesota to several places in Europe.
Nils had been married to Gabrielle, a prominent member of the Minneapolis police force. She was killed in an ambush two years previously, and Nils holds feelings of grief and a burning desire for revenge. The killer was Sammy Sykes, a drug lord, and he has disappeared. The police forces have been unable to find and apprehend him. Nils returns to a previous role as a private investigator and goes undercover to find him. This raises a conflict between bringing the perpetrator to justice and vigilantism. Is violent revenge ever acceptable?
Nils visits Sykes's daughter in prison and gets a small clue that leads him on an international search, full of tension, suspense and action.
Highly recommended for those who may already be fans of Nils Shapiro, and new readers who are bound to become fans.
This was a character-driven book with a clever, complex, and emotional plotline. The pace was brisk and intense, tinged with melancholy. The location moved from Minnesota to several places in Europe.
Nils had been married to Gabrielle, a prominent member of the Minneapolis police force. She was killed in an ambush two years previously, and Nils holds feelings of grief and a burning desire for revenge. The killer was Sammy Sykes, a drug lord, and he has disappeared. The police forces have been unable to find and apprehend him. Nils returns to a previous role as a private investigator and goes undercover to find him. This raises a conflict between bringing the perpetrator to justice and vigilantism. Is violent revenge ever acceptable?
Nils visits Sykes's daughter in prison and gets a small clue that leads him on an international search, full of tension, suspense and action.
Highly recommended for those who may already be fans of Nils Shapiro, and new readers who are bound to become fans.
September 7, 2025
This is my first exposure to Matt Goldman and his character Nils Shapiro, and I am so pleased to have discovered these books. I will now have to go back to book one and see where it all began. This is also the beauty of Netgalley, which introduces the reader to so many authors they make not have heard of.
Nils is on a mission to take revenge on Sammy Sykes, a heinous drug lord responsible for the death of the love of his life, his wife Gabriele who was a Chief of police. Gabriele was shot when Sammy was trying to ambush a police operation to snatch his daughter Anna who was being taken into custody. Unfortunately for Nils, this was the worst scenario which could have occurred. After two years without Gabriele Nils to decides to take revenge.
This may not be the smartest move by Nils and many of his friends and colleagues have advised him against taking this path but there is no stopping him. His major obstacle is that no one knows where Sammy is and there are many protecting him and keeping his location a top secret. But Nils is like a dog with a bone, he slowly discovers small clues, which ultimately lead him on the journey to tracking Sammy down.
There are a great cast of characters in the book and for me Casey was a favourite. It is hard to say too much about her as I do not want to give away any spoilers, but she very much enhances the story, and Goldman has a knack for developing strong characters that do this book justice. The book is full of action and suspense, and I found it very hard to put down. Brilliant writing along with a fantastic plot Dark Humor is a fabulous, tightly woven read and I highly recommend this book to all.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
December 29, 2025
Definitely my least favorite of the series. I don’t know what happened between the last book and this one, but I feel like the author totally abandoned the main characters morals and values. It felt like it dragged on and on in the middle but wrapped up pretty quickly in the end. Entertaining at some points, but I really think the author did a real disservice to the character Shapiro that I know fans enjoy. I really can’t say I would recommend this book and it’s a shame because I do love this author. Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy!
December 19, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Nils Shapiro, private investigator, goes on a mission to find the man who is resposible for his wife's death.
The positives:
-It was fast pased.
-In my opinion it was written like a diary, i liked the fact that we see all the happenings as Nils sees.
-I was satisfied with the ending, even if it was predictible.
-I liked the relationships here, the fact that Nils has many friends and a family who can help him with anything. Literally anything.
The negatives:
-This is advertised as a thriller, but for me it was not one. I did not felt the suspense, the thrill as i needed to, in case of a thriller.
-I honestly did not understand the title of the book. In the book, happens to appear some "dark humor", but i don't understand why this is the title too.
-I was from the 60% mark honestly a bit bored.
Thanks again for this ARC
Köszönöm NetGalley-nek ezt az ARC-t!
Nils Shapiro, magánnyomozó, küldetésre indul, hogy megtalálja a férfit, aki felelős a felesége haláláért.
Pozitívumok:
-Gyorsan olvasható.
-Véleményem szerint naplószerűen volt megírva, tetszett, hogy mindent úgy látunk, ahogy Nils látja.
-Elégedett voltam a befejezéssel, még ha kiszámítható is volt.
-Tetszett a kapcsolatrendszer, hogy Nilsnek sok barátja és szerető családja van, akik bármiben segíthetnek neki. Szó szerint bármiben.
Negatívumok:
-Thrillerként hirdetik, de számomra nem az volt. Nem éreztem azt a feszültséget, azt az izgalmat, amire egy thriller esetében szükségem lett volna.
-Őszintén szólva nem értettem a könyv címét. A könyvben véletlenül felbukkan némi "fekete humor". De azt sem értem, miért ez a cím.
-A 60%-os határtól őszintén szólva egy kicsit unatkoztam.
Még egyszer köszönöm ezt az ARC-t
Nils Shapiro, private investigator, goes on a mission to find the man who is resposible for his wife's death.
The positives:
-It was fast pased.
-In my opinion it was written like a diary, i liked the fact that we see all the happenings as Nils sees.
-I was satisfied with the ending, even if it was predictible.
-I liked the relationships here, the fact that Nils has many friends and a family who can help him with anything. Literally anything.
The negatives:
-This is advertised as a thriller, but for me it was not one. I did not felt the suspense, the thrill as i needed to, in case of a thriller.
-I honestly did not understand the title of the book. In the book, happens to appear some "dark humor", but i don't understand why this is the title too.
-I was from the 60% mark honestly a bit bored.
Thanks again for this ARC
Köszönöm NetGalley-nek ezt az ARC-t!
Nils Shapiro, magánnyomozó, küldetésre indul, hogy megtalálja a férfit, aki felelős a felesége haláláért.
Pozitívumok:
-Gyorsan olvasható.
-Véleményem szerint naplószerűen volt megírva, tetszett, hogy mindent úgy látunk, ahogy Nils látja.
-Elégedett voltam a befejezéssel, még ha kiszámítható is volt.
-Tetszett a kapcsolatrendszer, hogy Nilsnek sok barátja és szerető családja van, akik bármiben segíthetnek neki. Szó szerint bármiben.
Negatívumok:
-Thrillerként hirdetik, de számomra nem az volt. Nem éreztem azt a feszültséget, azt az izgalmat, amire egy thriller esetében szükségem lett volna.
-Őszintén szólva nem értettem a könyv címét. A könyvben véletlenül felbukkan némi "fekete humor". De azt sem értem, miért ez a cím.
-A 60%-os határtól őszintén szólva egy kicsit unatkoztam.
Még egyszer köszönöm ezt az ARC-t
November 23, 2025
Nils Shapiro is probably my favorite detective series, and with Dark Humor, Matt Goldman has written a new favorite novel. In the latest addition to the series, which was long-awaited (5 years!), Gabriella has been gone for 2 years, having been killed in an ambush. Nils is off to Europe to find and bring the killer to justice.
After the initial shock of finding out that Gabriella is dead, Dark Humor takes off and never lets up. Nils' character, his friendships with Jameson and Ellegaard, and a possible new relationship are what makes this series continue to resonate with me. Nils' adventures across Europe and his creative investigative skills are the icing on the cake.
Thank you to Netgalley and Severn House for the digital ARC of Dark Humor by Matt Goldman. The opinions in this review are my own.
After the initial shock of finding out that Gabriella is dead, Dark Humor takes off and never lets up. Nils' character, his friendships with Jameson and Ellegaard, and a possible new relationship are what makes this series continue to resonate with me. Nils' adventures across Europe and his creative investigative skills are the icing on the cake.
Thank you to Netgalley and Severn House for the digital ARC of Dark Humor by Matt Goldman. The opinions in this review are my own.
January 7, 2026
4.5⭐
It's been five years since the last Nils Shapiro book, a favorite PI series with a memorable hero set in Minneapolis. Now two years later, two years Nils has spent in suspended animation after his wife died and the only light keeping him going was his very young daughter. Two years and the person responsible for his wife's death remains at large. And he discovers the slightest thread that may lead to finding Sammy Sykes. Beyond a cleverly plotted and suspense-filled mystery, the book deals with love and grief raising questions for everyone. What would you do to protect those you love? Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
It's been five years since the last Nils Shapiro book, a favorite PI series with a memorable hero set in Minneapolis. Now two years later, two years Nils has spent in suspended animation after his wife died and the only light keeping him going was his very young daughter. Two years and the person responsible for his wife's death remains at large. And he discovers the slightest thread that may lead to finding Sammy Sykes. Beyond a cleverly plotted and suspense-filled mystery, the book deals with love and grief raising questions for everyone. What would you do to protect those you love? Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
December 31, 2025
It's been five years since the last Nils Shapiro book and while I've missed this cast of characters it pains me to say that this book fell a little flat for me. We all know grief can wreak havoc on your emotions but I struggle with it completely taking over all Nils' morals and ethics. I enjoyed the setting in Europe but missed that it didn't take place in the Twin Cities. I hope there is another in the series and it brings back the good ole Nils we all know and love.
December 4, 2025
Matt Goldman's Nils Shapiro series masterfully intertwines the shadows of dark stories and deep themes with a bright, humorous undertone and incisive wit. This winning combination captivates readers as Nils delves into intricate murder mysteries, all while skillfully navigating the complexities of his personal life.
He grapples with his own trauma and sensitive nature, adding depth to his character and creating a compelling narrative that balances humor with gravity. Each installment promises a thrilling exploration of both crime and the human experience.
About...
In DARK HUMOR #5, Nils Shapiro (age 47) embarks on a personal, international quest to avenge the murder of his wife, the former Minneapolis police chief Gabriella Nuñez, who was killed two years earlier in an ambush orchestrated by a powerful drug kingpin Sammy Sykes who is highly skilled at evading the law and justice. The novel follows Nils as he takes justice into his own hands when local law enforcement and the FBI fail to capture Sykes.
Two years have passed since Gabriella's murder, and Sammy Sykes remains at large. Fueled by grief and a deep sense of justice, Nils retires from the police force (after receiving a payout) and formally resumes his life as a private investigator with Stone Arch Investigations, with his old friend, Anders Ellegaard, to hunt down Sykes.
A supervised visit with Anna Sykes, Sammy's daughter and a dirty ex-cop now in prison, provides Nils with a crucial lead. He notices a subtle signal indicating a prison guard named William Schmiechen is working for Sammy.
This lead sends Nils on a trail of criminal contacts and globetrotting, a journey across the world, from Minneapolis to Amsterdam, Munich, and finally Salzburg, putting his survival skills to the test.
A Side Case: On a transatlantic flight, Nils meets a wealth manager, Casey Van der Ven, and mentions he is a private investigator. She asks him to locate her missing husband, a cheese importer named Ivan Dijkstra, which adds a secondary, seemingly unrelated mystery to his international adventure.
Nils goes undercover wearing an assortment of disguises while orchestrating elaborate plans to evade detection and pursue his enemies for revenge—the Confrontation: When someone threatens Evelyn, Nils's young daughter, further raising the stakes. Will Nils get the justice he seeks?
My thoughts...
DARK HUMOR immerses readers in a tense atmosphere, shadowed by peril and moral complexity, as Nils navigates a landscape of danger, betrayal, and the haunting echoes of his lost love.
The novel maintains Goldman's signature style, blending a very dark and grim premise with Nils's openness, emotional vulnerability, sensitivity, and the author's snappy and sharp, witty dialogue, which is how the book earns its title.
It was fun meeting and catching up with colleagues, his daughter, ex-wife, his social circles of close friends, and new acquaintances Brigitte and Sophie, members of the so-called Widows Murder Club.
Nils's humor often serves as a coping mechanism for his deep personal pain and the dark realities of his work. He uses his internal thoughts and dry wit to provide a sharp, often self-deprecating commentary on the bizarre situations he encounters.
The humor lies in his deadpan delivery of clever lines, which stand in stark contrast to the serious nature of the surrounding events, such as murder, international pursuit, and revenge. The novel also blends an old-school noir-type detective series with a fun new AI tools edge vibe.
Nils's wit shines through his ability to interject normal, human moments and observations into a narrative filled with violence and international intrigue, highlighting the absurdity of life and death.
His willingness to talk about his feelings, even as he's performing "vigilante justice," provides an ironic, almost humorous vibe that makes the story accessible and engaging despite the grim subject matter.
Evelyn, Nils Shapiro's six-year-old daughter, serves as a crucial emotional anchor and a primary motivating factor in Dark Humor. While she is not actively involved in the investigative work, her presence and well-being drive Nils's actions and provide a powerful contrast to the dark world. Evelyn represents the normal, safe life Nils is fighting to protect. The juxtaposition of her innocence and the dark, dangerous world of international crime and revenge underscores the gravity of his mission.
Evelyn is the emotional heart of the story. The loss of her mother, Gabriella, is the initial tragedy that sets the plot of Dark Humor in motion, and Nils's commitment to her care highlights his sensitive nature, a key characteristic of the series.
Even with the globetrotting, he still has ties to home with friends, and his interactions with his daughter serve to humanize him, reminding the reader of the life he has in Minneapolis. While the book can be read as a standalone, fans will certainly delight.
The Series:
Gone to Dust #1
Broken Ice #2
The Shallows #3
Dead West #4
Dark Humor #5
Recs...
Readers who enjoy Matt Goldman's blend of dark humor, sharp dialogue, and compelling private investigator mysteries may also like the following authors and hardboiled PI crime series with wit:
~Robert B. Parker's Spenser series:
~Michael Connelly's Harry Bosch series
~Lou Berney (a favorite); November Road and Dark Ride
~P.J. Tracy's Monkeewrench series
~Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club series
Special thanks to Severn House and NetGalley for providing an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I have also read Matt's other work, which is equally as compelling.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub date: Dec 2, 2025
My Rating: 4 Stars
Dec Newsletter
Dec 2025 Must-Read Books
He grapples with his own trauma and sensitive nature, adding depth to his character and creating a compelling narrative that balances humor with gravity. Each installment promises a thrilling exploration of both crime and the human experience.
About...
In DARK HUMOR #5, Nils Shapiro (age 47) embarks on a personal, international quest to avenge the murder of his wife, the former Minneapolis police chief Gabriella Nuñez, who was killed two years earlier in an ambush orchestrated by a powerful drug kingpin Sammy Sykes who is highly skilled at evading the law and justice. The novel follows Nils as he takes justice into his own hands when local law enforcement and the FBI fail to capture Sykes.
Two years have passed since Gabriella's murder, and Sammy Sykes remains at large. Fueled by grief and a deep sense of justice, Nils retires from the police force (after receiving a payout) and formally resumes his life as a private investigator with Stone Arch Investigations, with his old friend, Anders Ellegaard, to hunt down Sykes.
A supervised visit with Anna Sykes, Sammy's daughter and a dirty ex-cop now in prison, provides Nils with a crucial lead. He notices a subtle signal indicating a prison guard named William Schmiechen is working for Sammy.
This lead sends Nils on a trail of criminal contacts and globetrotting, a journey across the world, from Minneapolis to Amsterdam, Munich, and finally Salzburg, putting his survival skills to the test.
A Side Case: On a transatlantic flight, Nils meets a wealth manager, Casey Van der Ven, and mentions he is a private investigator. She asks him to locate her missing husband, a cheese importer named Ivan Dijkstra, which adds a secondary, seemingly unrelated mystery to his international adventure.
Nils goes undercover wearing an assortment of disguises while orchestrating elaborate plans to evade detection and pursue his enemies for revenge—the Confrontation: When someone threatens Evelyn, Nils's young daughter, further raising the stakes. Will Nils get the justice he seeks?
My thoughts...
DARK HUMOR immerses readers in a tense atmosphere, shadowed by peril and moral complexity, as Nils navigates a landscape of danger, betrayal, and the haunting echoes of his lost love.
The novel maintains Goldman's signature style, blending a very dark and grim premise with Nils's openness, emotional vulnerability, sensitivity, and the author's snappy and sharp, witty dialogue, which is how the book earns its title.
It was fun meeting and catching up with colleagues, his daughter, ex-wife, his social circles of close friends, and new acquaintances Brigitte and Sophie, members of the so-called Widows Murder Club.
Nils's humor often serves as a coping mechanism for his deep personal pain and the dark realities of his work. He uses his internal thoughts and dry wit to provide a sharp, often self-deprecating commentary on the bizarre situations he encounters.
The humor lies in his deadpan delivery of clever lines, which stand in stark contrast to the serious nature of the surrounding events, such as murder, international pursuit, and revenge. The novel also blends an old-school noir-type detective series with a fun new AI tools edge vibe.
Nils's wit shines through his ability to interject normal, human moments and observations into a narrative filled with violence and international intrigue, highlighting the absurdity of life and death.
His willingness to talk about his feelings, even as he's performing "vigilante justice," provides an ironic, almost humorous vibe that makes the story accessible and engaging despite the grim subject matter.
Evelyn, Nils Shapiro's six-year-old daughter, serves as a crucial emotional anchor and a primary motivating factor in Dark Humor. While she is not actively involved in the investigative work, her presence and well-being drive Nils's actions and provide a powerful contrast to the dark world. Evelyn represents the normal, safe life Nils is fighting to protect. The juxtaposition of her innocence and the dark, dangerous world of international crime and revenge underscores the gravity of his mission.
Evelyn is the emotional heart of the story. The loss of her mother, Gabriella, is the initial tragedy that sets the plot of Dark Humor in motion, and Nils's commitment to her care highlights his sensitive nature, a key characteristic of the series.
Even with the globetrotting, he still has ties to home with friends, and his interactions with his daughter serve to humanize him, reminding the reader of the life he has in Minneapolis. While the book can be read as a standalone, fans will certainly delight.
The Series:
Gone to Dust #1
Broken Ice #2
The Shallows #3
Dead West #4
Dark Humor #5
Recs...
Readers who enjoy Matt Goldman's blend of dark humor, sharp dialogue, and compelling private investigator mysteries may also like the following authors and hardboiled PI crime series with wit:
~Robert B. Parker's Spenser series:
~Michael Connelly's Harry Bosch series
~Lou Berney (a favorite); November Road and Dark Ride
~P.J. Tracy's Monkeewrench series
~Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club series
Special thanks to Severn House and NetGalley for providing an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I have also read Matt's other work, which is equally as compelling.
Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub date: Dec 2, 2025
My Rating: 4 Stars
Dec Newsletter
Dec 2025 Must-Read Books
September 3, 2025
Thanks to Severn House and Netgalley for this eARC.
Private investigator Nils Shapiro returns in this emotionally charged, globe-trotting thriller, driven by grief and vengeance. Two years after the murder of his wife, Nils is no longer content to wait for justice. With law enforcement stalled and the drug kingpin Sammy Sykes still at large, Nils takes matters into his own hands—plunging into a dangerous undercover mission that spans from Minnesota to Europe.
Despite the title, Dark Humor leans more into emotional gravity than sardonic wit. Goldman’s prose is sharp, efficient, and laced with tension. The humor, when it surfaces, is dry and character-driven—less punchline, more personality. Think Chandler with a modern edge, but filtered through grief and grit.
This installment is arguably the most personal for Nils. Goldman explores the psychological toll of loss without melodrama, allowing Nils’ pain to simmer beneath the surface. His pursuit of justice isn’t just procedural—it’s existential. The novel asks: what does vengeance cost, and can it ever truly satisfy?
The international setting adds a fresh layer to the series. Goldman handles the shift deftly, using unfamiliar terrain to heighten suspense and isolate Nils emotionally. The pacing is brisk, but never rushed—each location feels purposeful, each encounter layered with moral ambiguity.
Beyond the revenge arc, Dark Humor probes questions of justice, identity, and the ethics of vigilantism. Goldman doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, he invites readers to sit with discomfort, to weigh the cost of action against the ache of inaction.
A taut, emotionally intelligent thriller that deepens the Nils Shapiro canon. Goldman trades procedural polish for psychological complexity, crafting a story that’s as much about healing as it is about hunting. For readers who crave mystery with moral weight and character-driven stakes, Dark Humor delivers.
Private investigator Nils Shapiro returns in this emotionally charged, globe-trotting thriller, driven by grief and vengeance. Two years after the murder of his wife, Nils is no longer content to wait for justice. With law enforcement stalled and the drug kingpin Sammy Sykes still at large, Nils takes matters into his own hands—plunging into a dangerous undercover mission that spans from Minnesota to Europe.
Despite the title, Dark Humor leans more into emotional gravity than sardonic wit. Goldman’s prose is sharp, efficient, and laced with tension. The humor, when it surfaces, is dry and character-driven—less punchline, more personality. Think Chandler with a modern edge, but filtered through grief and grit.
This installment is arguably the most personal for Nils. Goldman explores the psychological toll of loss without melodrama, allowing Nils’ pain to simmer beneath the surface. His pursuit of justice isn’t just procedural—it’s existential. The novel asks: what does vengeance cost, and can it ever truly satisfy?
The international setting adds a fresh layer to the series. Goldman handles the shift deftly, using unfamiliar terrain to heighten suspense and isolate Nils emotionally. The pacing is brisk, but never rushed—each location feels purposeful, each encounter layered with moral ambiguity.
Beyond the revenge arc, Dark Humor probes questions of justice, identity, and the ethics of vigilantism. Goldman doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, he invites readers to sit with discomfort, to weigh the cost of action against the ache of inaction.
A taut, emotionally intelligent thriller that deepens the Nils Shapiro canon. Goldman trades procedural polish for psychological complexity, crafting a story that’s as much about healing as it is about hunting. For readers who crave mystery with moral weight and character-driven stakes, Dark Humor delivers.
October 9, 2025
It has been 5 years since we heard from Nils Shapiro, the witty PI from my home city of Minneapolis. And I am so glad he is back. In Dark Humor Nils is mourning the loss of his wife to Sammy Sykes, a drug kingpin, but choosing to stay out of the manhunt… until he just can’t anymore after a lead from Sammy’s daughter.
The hunt for the murderer takes Nils to Amsterdam, Munich and Salzburg where he once again can put his investigative skills and his appealing personality together to find Sammy who is deep in hiding. After a threat to his 6-year-old daughter, Nils knows that this is more than survival for his family; it is a chance to end the threat forever.
Goldman uses snappy dialogue and humor along the way to allow for a quick read of serious topics. Goldman is a playwright and a television writer who knows how to capture his audience and keep them enthralled. I read Goldman’s first Nils Shapiro book, Gone to Dust, in 2017 when it first came out and have read each of the following four in the Shapiro series as soon as they were published. I enjoy good sound writing and excellent entertainment which his novels give me. He also has five other stand-alone novels which are just as good – but this series is my favorite because we get to watch Nils change and grow over the years.
I hope that there are more Nils Shapiro books coming. Goldman is aging Nils faster than the reader is aging. Nothing is as scary as that! Treat yourself and start at the beginning with Gone to Dust if you are new to Matt Goldman. Happy reading!
My rating: 5 of 5
This ARC title was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am providing an unbiased review. Dark Humor will be published on December 2, 2025.
The hunt for the murderer takes Nils to Amsterdam, Munich and Salzburg where he once again can put his investigative skills and his appealing personality together to find Sammy who is deep in hiding. After a threat to his 6-year-old daughter, Nils knows that this is more than survival for his family; it is a chance to end the threat forever.
Goldman uses snappy dialogue and humor along the way to allow for a quick read of serious topics. Goldman is a playwright and a television writer who knows how to capture his audience and keep them enthralled. I read Goldman’s first Nils Shapiro book, Gone to Dust, in 2017 when it first came out and have read each of the following four in the Shapiro series as soon as they were published. I enjoy good sound writing and excellent entertainment which his novels give me. He also has five other stand-alone novels which are just as good – but this series is my favorite because we get to watch Nils change and grow over the years.
I hope that there are more Nils Shapiro books coming. Goldman is aging Nils faster than the reader is aging. Nothing is as scary as that! Treat yourself and start at the beginning with Gone to Dust if you are new to Matt Goldman. Happy reading!
My rating: 5 of 5
This ARC title was provided by Netgalley.com at no cost, and I am providing an unbiased review. Dark Humor will be published on December 2, 2025.
September 27, 2025
At long last, a new Nils Shapiro mystery from Matt Goldman! It's been five years, and Dark Humor is a welcome return to an outstanding private investigator series. Nils has been mourning the death of his wife, a Minneapolis police chief, for two years, still dabbling in PI work and sharing the parenting of his beloved 6-year-old daughter, Evelyn, with his ex-wife. Drug lord Sammy Sykes, whom Nils blames for Gabriella's shooting death, is wanted by law enforcement, but no one can find him.
When Nils picks up a clue while interviewing Sammy's incarcerated daughter, he is compelled to follow through and plans to find Sammy on his own .Although his closest friends, ex-wife, and associates beg him to let it go and move on with his life, Nils takes off for Europe and situations that are complex and personally dangerous.
All of the characters in the story are singular and portrayed in fascinating detail--from Nils himself to his family, his associates, the people who help (or hinder) him along the way, and even villain Sammy Sykes. And his seatmate on the plane becomes involved as well. Was it a coincidence that they met, or does she play a much more important role in the story? I enjoyed every nuance of this absorbing tale, even when it threatened some disturbing vigilante justice. The story is brought to a satisfying end, and I'm hoping that Goldman's new publisher will continue with this memorable series.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
When Nils picks up a clue while interviewing Sammy's incarcerated daughter, he is compelled to follow through and plans to find Sammy on his own .Although his closest friends, ex-wife, and associates beg him to let it go and move on with his life, Nils takes off for Europe and situations that are complex and personally dangerous.
All of the characters in the story are singular and portrayed in fascinating detail--from Nils himself to his family, his associates, the people who help (or hinder) him along the way, and even villain Sammy Sykes. And his seatmate on the plane becomes involved as well. Was it a coincidence that they met, or does she play a much more important role in the story? I enjoyed every nuance of this absorbing tale, even when it threatened some disturbing vigilante justice. The story is brought to a satisfying end, and I'm hoping that Goldman's new publisher will continue with this memorable series.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.
November 25, 2025
📚Dark Humor
✍🏻Matt Goldman
Blurb:
Nils Shapiro embarks on an international quest to avenge his wife’s murder in this gripping, emotionally charged thriller from New York Times bestselling and Emmy Award-winning author Matt Goldman.
“Irreverent and insightful, private detective Nils Shapiro is sure to become a fan favorite” –HARLAN COBEN, New York Times bestselling author
“I want more of Nils Shapiro” –LEE CHILD, New York Times bestselling author
Sammy Sykes is evading the law—and justice.
Nils is on a mission to hunt down Sammy Sykes, the drug kingpin responsible for the ambush that led to his wife’s death two years ago. Despite the efforts of local law enforcement and the FBI, Sammy is still on the loose.
It’s time for Nils to take the law into his own hands.
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison gifts him a lead that’s impossible to ignore. Resuming his life as a private investigator, Nils goes deep undercover. Fueled by revenge and a deep sense of justice, Nils’ pursuit of Sammy takes him all the way from Minnesota to Europe, where his survival skills—and resolve—are put to the ultimate test . . .
A page-turning detective novel written in Matt Goldman’s unique, sharp style. The long-awaited return of beloved private eye Nils Shapiro is perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, Robert Crais, and Harlan Coben.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Matt Goldman for the advanced copy of "Dark Humor" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#MattGolden
#DarkHumor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Matt Goldman
Blurb:
Nils Shapiro embarks on an international quest to avenge his wife’s murder in this gripping, emotionally charged thriller from New York Times bestselling and Emmy Award-winning author Matt Goldman.
“Irreverent and insightful, private detective Nils Shapiro is sure to become a fan favorite” –HARLAN COBEN, New York Times bestselling author
“I want more of Nils Shapiro” –LEE CHILD, New York Times bestselling author
Sammy Sykes is evading the law—and justice.
Nils is on a mission to hunt down Sammy Sykes, the drug kingpin responsible for the ambush that led to his wife’s death two years ago. Despite the efforts of local law enforcement and the FBI, Sammy is still on the loose.
It’s time for Nils to take the law into his own hands.
A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison gifts him a lead that’s impossible to ignore. Resuming his life as a private investigator, Nils goes deep undercover. Fueled by revenge and a deep sense of justice, Nils’ pursuit of Sammy takes him all the way from Minnesota to Europe, where his survival skills—and resolve—are put to the ultimate test . . .
A page-turning detective novel written in Matt Goldman’s unique, sharp style. The long-awaited return of beloved private eye Nils Shapiro is perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, Robert Crais, and Harlan Coben.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Matt Goldman for the advanced copy of "Dark Humor" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#MattGolden
#DarkHumor
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 19, 2025
Favorite Quote:
The Internet is the private investigator’s mean streets of old. Our nickname of gumshoe is outdated. We should be called creepers or googlers or dark web surfers.
I don’t want to kill Sammy Sykes. It’s something I feel I have to do. Like getting a crown at the dentist. Or talking to the other parents at Evelyn’s school.
It’s amazing how polite even the most despicable people can be when they want something.
The subconscious is my favorite of the consciences. That part of our brains where the real work gets done. Where our little voice comes from, as if the subconscious is a separate person. A wiser person. More observant. More sensitive. But a bit secretive— it doesn’t always want to tell us what it knows.
But meeting Casey the way I did reminds me of the gifts that life offers. Tiny miracles that can grow into the keystones of one’s life. We’re surrounded by them. It’s just a matter of choosing the right ones and nurturing them to their potential.
My Review:
I have been remiss in my reading research, as for shame, this was my first time to pick up a Matt Goldman missive. But I plan to rectify my sloth and make reading his clever arrangements of words a regular habit. His characters were strong and thoughtfully constructed, while also vulnerable and endearingly flawed. I enjoyed the odyssey of their storyline development while this wily scribbler perceptively peeled back the layers to their gooey center. The man has mad skills and exceptional word voodoo.
The Internet is the private investigator’s mean streets of old. Our nickname of gumshoe is outdated. We should be called creepers or googlers or dark web surfers.
I don’t want to kill Sammy Sykes. It’s something I feel I have to do. Like getting a crown at the dentist. Or talking to the other parents at Evelyn’s school.
It’s amazing how polite even the most despicable people can be when they want something.
The subconscious is my favorite of the consciences. That part of our brains where the real work gets done. Where our little voice comes from, as if the subconscious is a separate person. A wiser person. More observant. More sensitive. But a bit secretive— it doesn’t always want to tell us what it knows.
But meeting Casey the way I did reminds me of the gifts that life offers. Tiny miracles that can grow into the keystones of one’s life. We’re surrounded by them. It’s just a matter of choosing the right ones and nurturing them to their potential.
My Review:
I have been remiss in my reading research, as for shame, this was my first time to pick up a Matt Goldman missive. But I plan to rectify my sloth and make reading his clever arrangements of words a regular habit. His characters were strong and thoughtfully constructed, while also vulnerable and endearingly flawed. I enjoyed the odyssey of their storyline development while this wily scribbler perceptively peeled back the layers to their gooey center. The man has mad skills and exceptional word voodoo.
September 1, 2025
Dark Humor is a taut, emotionally charged thriller that balances grit with grace. Matt Goldman brings private investigator Nils Shapiro back with a vengeance—this time on a globe-spanning quest to avenge his wife’s murder. The result is a story that’s as sharp as it is soulful.
From the icy streets of Minnesota to the shadowed corners of Europe, the novel pulses with urgency. Nils isn’t just chasing a criminal—he’s chasing closure, justice, and the fragments of a life that was shattered two years ago. Goldman’s prose is lean and evocative, laced with dry wit and quiet melancholy. The emotional stakes are high, but never overwrought; the grief is raw, the resolve unwavering.
What sets this apart is its emotional texture. Beneath the chase lies a story of love, loss, and the quiet fury that drives a man to risk everything. The pacing is brisk, the dialogue crisp, and the atmosphere thick with tension. Yet there’s a tenderness too—in Nils’ interactions, in the memories that surface, in the choices he makes when no one’s watching.
Fans of Michael Connelly and Harlan Coben will feel right at home, but Goldman’s voice is distinctly his own: smart, sardonic, and deeply human.
A compelling return for Nils Shapiro—and a reminder that revenge, when written with heart, can be more than just a motive. It can be a reckoning.
Thank you to Matt Goldman, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
From the icy streets of Minnesota to the shadowed corners of Europe, the novel pulses with urgency. Nils isn’t just chasing a criminal—he’s chasing closure, justice, and the fragments of a life that was shattered two years ago. Goldman’s prose is lean and evocative, laced with dry wit and quiet melancholy. The emotional stakes are high, but never overwrought; the grief is raw, the resolve unwavering.
What sets this apart is its emotional texture. Beneath the chase lies a story of love, loss, and the quiet fury that drives a man to risk everything. The pacing is brisk, the dialogue crisp, and the atmosphere thick with tension. Yet there’s a tenderness too—in Nils’ interactions, in the memories that surface, in the choices he makes when no one’s watching.
Fans of Michael Connelly and Harlan Coben will feel right at home, but Goldman’s voice is distinctly his own: smart, sardonic, and deeply human.
A compelling return for Nils Shapiro—and a reminder that revenge, when written with heart, can be more than just a motive. It can be a reckoning.
Thank you to Matt Goldman, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
November 29, 2025
Nils Shapiro is investigating the most personal case to date for him, the death of his wife Minneapolis police chief, Gabriella Nuñez, two years ago. The police have not been able to make much progress and Nils is frustrated and mad. Nils visits Anna Skyes, a dirty police officer, now in prison. Nils knows her father, Sammy, was responsible for the hit on his wife. He is on a mission of revenge. His leads take him to Amsterdam, Munich and Salzburg. On the plane Nils meets Casey Van der Ven and tells her what he does. Casey asks him to locate her husband, cheese importer Ivan Dijkstra, who happens to be missing. This adds to the adventure. Does Nils find Sammy and take revenge? Who is Casey and is she a part of the mystery, or was it just luck that put her next to Nils?
I will say that the title, Dark Humor, fits the book. This is a well written mystery that engages the reader from the start. I do recommend reading this series from the beginning, Gone to Dust, being the first, to get the full backstory on our main characters. This is a character driven book. Nils is our narrator, and we feel what he feels, loss, the need for justice. I hope we get more Nils, I want to see where he goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
I will say that the title, Dark Humor, fits the book. This is a well written mystery that engages the reader from the start. I do recommend reading this series from the beginning, Gone to Dust, being the first, to get the full backstory on our main characters. This is a character driven book. Nils is our narrator, and we feel what he feels, loss, the need for justice. I hope we get more Nils, I want to see where he goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Severn House, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
December 7, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for gifting me a digital ARC of the latest book by Matt Goldman. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 4.5 stars!
Private investigator Nils Shapiro has decided to take the law into his own hands. It's been two years since his wife was killed, and despite the efforts of law enforcement and FBI, her killer, Sammy Sykes is still on the loose. A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison opens up a potential lead into finding Sykes' location. His hunt takes him from Minnesota to Europe, but can he both survive and ensure his daughter's safety while bringing down this murderer?
I'm a huge fan of Goldman's stand alone books, so I requested this one without delving too deep. I didn't realize it was #5 in a series, although it's apparently been a while since #4, so if they are like me, everyone has forgotten most of the details! But never fear, I enjoyed this book thoroughly, even not knowing what happened before. It has spurred me to read those other four books though. This book was filled with great characters, gritty action and suspense, and Goldman's trademark dark humor (hence the title). Loved it.
Private investigator Nils Shapiro has decided to take the law into his own hands. It's been two years since his wife was killed, and despite the efforts of law enforcement and FBI, her killer, Sammy Sykes is still on the loose. A trip to see Sammy's daughter in prison opens up a potential lead into finding Sykes' location. His hunt takes him from Minnesota to Europe, but can he both survive and ensure his daughter's safety while bringing down this murderer?
I'm a huge fan of Goldman's stand alone books, so I requested this one without delving too deep. I didn't realize it was #5 in a series, although it's apparently been a while since #4, so if they are like me, everyone has forgotten most of the details! But never fear, I enjoyed this book thoroughly, even not knowing what happened before. It has spurred me to read those other four books though. This book was filled with great characters, gritty action and suspense, and Goldman's trademark dark humor (hence the title). Loved it.
September 25, 2025
What a wonderful way to start the fall. Cool temps, blue skies and a new Nils Shapiro story. This novel takes place two years after Gabriella died. Nils has been leaving the locating of her killer, Sammy Sykes to the MPD, or the FBI or Interpol. No knows where he fled to. Nils makes a visit to Sammy's daughter, still in prison. She has no idea where her father is, but he gets a hint of something.
Nils decides that he is going to find Sammy. Everyone has told him to leave it alone, but two years, come and gone and nothing. This begins Nils investigation. It takes him to Europe.
I do not want to give away any parts of this story. As usual, Nils is Nils. He is driven and funny and sees things through his own special lens. I loved this story. Characters to like, some to not like and even though it was not taking place in Minnesota, it still had atmosphere. It was great fun. some sadness and I think it has a lesson that you do what you can do and the rest, you let go.
A huge thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for this ARC.
Nils decides that he is going to find Sammy. Everyone has told him to leave it alone, but two years, come and gone and nothing. This begins Nils investigation. It takes him to Europe.
I do not want to give away any parts of this story. As usual, Nils is Nils. He is driven and funny and sees things through his own special lens. I loved this story. Characters to like, some to not like and even though it was not taking place in Minnesota, it still had atmosphere. It was great fun. some sadness and I think it has a lesson that you do what you can do and the rest, you let go.
A huge thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for this ARC.
September 4, 2025
Nils is back! That is great news! As much I enjoy the standout standalone novels from Matt Goldman, it was the Nils Shapiro series that made me a fan of the writer. Nils is one private detective who never disappoints. Dark Humor is the story of the ultimate close to home case. Nils decides, against all advice and logic, to go after the man responsible for the death of his wife. The only problem, and it's a big one, is the fact no one knows where Sammy Sykes is hiding. He literally could be anywhere in the world. But what good is a private detective if he can't detect, right? If you are already a fan of Nils Shapiro, you'll agree this one cements his place among the best in the genre. If you're new to the character, Dark Humor will make you a fan. This is an excellent addition to an already sensational series.
October 9, 2025
Private Detective Nils Shapiro is still grieving his wife's death 2 years after her murder. The police haven't been able to arrest her killer and when Nils gets a lead on his location, he heads to Europe to track him down. The best thing about this series is Nils' intelligence, insight, and humor. HIs methods tend to be. more original than your average fictional PI and kept me turning pages to find out what he would do next. A good cast of recurring characters, believable bad guys, and plenty of action make the chase even more entertaining. #NetGalley #DarkHumor
December 2, 2025
Thank you to Matt Goldman, Severn House, and Netgalley for the ARC. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This novel centers on Nils Shapiro. It was a story that grabbed my attention until the very end. It had a pretty fast pace as Nils traveled from Minnesota to several European cities. It also had a cast of other characters that added wonderfully to the story. I felt the characters and the story were well written! This is a new writer to me, but I will be reading other books by him in the future. I would definitely recommend this to friends.
This novel centers on Nils Shapiro. It was a story that grabbed my attention until the very end. It had a pretty fast pace as Nils traveled from Minnesota to several European cities. It also had a cast of other characters that added wonderfully to the story. I felt the characters and the story were well written! This is a new writer to me, but I will be reading other books by him in the future. I would definitely recommend this to friends.
December 21, 2025
I’m a huge Matt Goldman fan- have read everything he’s published. This is my favorite so far. Interesting, exciting, comforting to have Nils and the gang back, and ultimately satisfying beyond my expectations. Highly recommend to all. Only word of caution- read The Murder Show before this one- it is necessary background and if you don’t- this one will spoil that book for you. Do yourself a favor and buy them both today!
January 15, 2026
I appreciate it when writers take their detectives into new and challenging places of finding meaning in their lives and work and of revisiting their ethical frameworks.
Goldman's novel resonates deeply with the political situation unfolding in Nils Shapiro's home city at the moment and in the country more broadly.
And the European settings are put to wonderful use for plot and comedy.
I'm a big fan of this series!
Goldman's novel resonates deeply with the political situation unfolding in Nils Shapiro's home city at the moment and in the country more broadly.
And the European settings are put to wonderful use for plot and comedy.
I'm a big fan of this series!
December 2, 2025
Nils seeks to find Sammy Sykes, a drug kingpin linked to his wife's death. After local law enforcement fails, Nils takes action himself. A visit to Sammy's daughter in prison gives him a key lead, where he then goes undercover, traveling from Minnesota to Europe in his quest for justice.
A good cast of characters and written with pace and suspense giving an absorbing read.
A good cast of characters and written with pace and suspense giving an absorbing read.
December 5, 2025
I loved this book and this author is amazing. I was so happy to have a Nils book again! (And hope another one will follow). Great writing and relationship building with characters new and old too. Definitely recommend this book. If you haven’t read the other books in the series I think you would be lost and wouldn’t get the full picture of a lot going on.
December 9, 2025
Matt Goldman knows how to tell a story! Nils Shapiro is back, and as usual, I don’t want to put the book down until I finish. I won’t reveal any spoilers, but a satisfying conclusion for me, tying up some loose ends from previous Nils Shapiro tales. The only disappointing aspect is that I’ll have to wait a while for his next book!
January 7, 2026
I'm a fan of this Minnesota writer. This is the 5th book, after a 4 year wait, with the Minneapolis PI, Nils Shapiro. It's a solid mystery series though this one took place in Europe, which was a fun change. He has 3 stand alone novels that I loved: Carolina Moonset, The Murder Show and A Good Family.
December 3, 2025
So glad to read another Nils Shapiro book. I have been filling the time with Goldman's standalones. This was the best book. Great relationships, mystery, disguises, and travel. Some moments were like Reacher/Bond but better. Sure hope there is more Shapiro to come!
January 3, 2026
Excellent fun!
What a fun ride this book is. Matt Goldman’s Nils Shapiro books just get better and this one is smart, humorous, fast paced with characters you enjoy getting to know and travel with. I look forward to more Nils Shapiro…
What a fun ride this book is. Matt Goldman’s Nils Shapiro books just get better and this one is smart, humorous, fast paced with characters you enjoy getting to know and travel with. I look forward to more Nils Shapiro…
January 17, 2026
I will always want more Nils Shapiro books. This one had a lot of emotion in it. Like others have said, I missed the Twin Cities/MN setting but it was a nice change of pace either way. Hoping for more books in the series.
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