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DCI Logan Crime Thrillers #21
A Rock and a Hard Place
DCI Jack Logan is back!
When washed-up 80s rock legend Johnny Freestone is found dead in a cave off Scotland's North Coast 500 tourist route, it looks like a tragic accident – another celebrity lost to a reckless lifestyle.
But Police Scotland detective – and secret Freestone fan – Jack Logan isn’t convinced that the star's death was an accident. As Logan delves into Johnny's final days, he uncovers a trail of bitter rivalries, broken promises, and a comeback tour that wasn’t quite what it seemed.
With the Highlands’ rugged backdrop as the stage, Logan must unravel a web of secrets and lies that entangles everyone from music studios to old flames, and find out who wanted the self-styled 'voice of a generation' silenced for good.
Somewhere between a rock and a hard place, the truth waits to be unearthed...
A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE is the 21st book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect jumping on point for new readers wanting to find out what all the fuss is about.
When washed-up 80s rock legend Johnny Freestone is found dead in a cave off Scotland's North Coast 500 tourist route, it looks like a tragic accident – another celebrity lost to a reckless lifestyle.
But Police Scotland detective – and secret Freestone fan – Jack Logan isn’t convinced that the star's death was an accident. As Logan delves into Johnny's final days, he uncovers a trail of bitter rivalries, broken promises, and a comeback tour that wasn’t quite what it seemed.
With the Highlands’ rugged backdrop as the stage, Logan must unravel a web of secrets and lies that entangles everyone from music studios to old flames, and find out who wanted the self-styled 'voice of a generation' silenced for good.
Somewhere between a rock and a hard place, the truth waits to be unearthed...
A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE is the 21st book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series, and the perfect jumping on point for new readers wanting to find out what all the fuss is about.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published July 24, 2025
1411 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Kirk
59 books1,743 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 284 reviews
July 24, 2025
It’s 4:55am, and I’ve just finished reading this. JD Kirk is someone whose books go live on release day at midnight, and I always stay up to read them in one sitting.
A Rock and a Hard Place is perfect. It’s no wonder this is the 21st book in the series. The demand for more Jack Logan is eternal! We also have a book rife with that classic JD Kirk humour, with a fantastic Heather Filson mention and a Bob Hoon cameo that’s quintessentially sweary and hilarious. I wish there were more books to read, alas I will dutifully wait for the next one. In the meantime, a full reread is on the horizon…
A Rock and a Hard Place is perfect. It’s no wonder this is the 21st book in the series. The demand for more Jack Logan is eternal! We also have a book rife with that classic JD Kirk humour, with a fantastic Heather Filson mention and a Bob Hoon cameo that’s quintessentially sweary and hilarious. I wish there were more books to read, alas I will dutifully wait for the next one. In the meantime, a full reread is on the horizon…
November 4, 2025
A Rock and a Hard Place is book twenty-one in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers by J.D. Kirk. DCI Jack Logan was on extended leave and was not sure he would go back to his job when a washed-up 80s rock legend, Johnny Freestone, was discovered in a cave off Scotland's North Coast. At first, the law enforcement team believed it was a tragic accident. However, DCI Jack Logan did not think it was an accident, and it was the trigger that brought him back into the saddle. The readers of A Rock and a Hard Place will continue to follow DCI Logan and his team to discover what happens.
I like the way JD Kirk reminds us that sometimes the people we idolise are not always the way we seem. In addition, I started to understand why law enforcement officers became a family. Readers of A Rock and A Hard Place also learn about the issues fathers face in divorces involving children. I engaged with this book from the first page to the end. A Rock and a Hard Place is another fantastic addition to this excellent series.
I love JD Kirk's writing style and the way he portrays his characters and their interactions throughout this book. A Rock and a Hard Place is well written and researched by JD Kirk. I like JD Kirk's description of the setting of A Rock and a Hard Place, which helps me imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
I like the way JD Kirk reminds us that sometimes the people we idolise are not always the way we seem. In addition, I started to understand why law enforcement officers became a family. Readers of A Rock and A Hard Place also learn about the issues fathers face in divorces involving children. I engaged with this book from the first page to the end. A Rock and a Hard Place is another fantastic addition to this excellent series.
I love JD Kirk's writing style and the way he portrays his characters and their interactions throughout this book. A Rock and a Hard Place is well written and researched by JD Kirk. I like JD Kirk's description of the setting of A Rock and a Hard Place, which helps me imagine being part of the book's plot.
I recommend this book.
July 24, 2025
Another great book by J.D. Kirk. Fully recommended.
September 12, 2025
3.75 / 5.0
A book full of twists and diversions but overall a solid read. Fresh from reading the previous book, this book made more sense than before, it follows the aftermath of the events in the previous book (so please read the other book before starting the latest one), we see a lot more character development in Jack then before where we see the impact of the previous book on both his physical and mental state. This time round we don’t see Jack in his usual self, we see a DCI that is learning from his past and mistakes. It’s a great read, but one that makes more sense if you’ve read the previous one.
The book centres around the death of Johnny Freestone who was an infamous 80s rockstar, who is found dead in a cave off Scotland north coast. But for Logan he thinks there’s more to the death and convinced it’s murder, but the more he researches into the past the more he uncovers a trail of bigger rivalries and broken promises. It’s up to Logan to investigate who was really responsible or whether they’re set free.
It’s a great read from start to finish, I am actually digging this series which I will keep my eye out! A lot of police procedure, classic banter and great characters, worth a go!
A book full of twists and diversions but overall a solid read. Fresh from reading the previous book, this book made more sense than before, it follows the aftermath of the events in the previous book (so please read the other book before starting the latest one), we see a lot more character development in Jack then before where we see the impact of the previous book on both his physical and mental state. This time round we don’t see Jack in his usual self, we see a DCI that is learning from his past and mistakes. It’s a great read, but one that makes more sense if you’ve read the previous one.
The book centres around the death of Johnny Freestone who was an infamous 80s rockstar, who is found dead in a cave off Scotland north coast. But for Logan he thinks there’s more to the death and convinced it’s murder, but the more he researches into the past the more he uncovers a trail of bigger rivalries and broken promises. It’s up to Logan to investigate who was really responsible or whether they’re set free.
It’s a great read from start to finish, I am actually digging this series which I will keep my eye out! A lot of police procedure, classic banter and great characters, worth a go!
July 27, 2025
A Rock and a Hard Place by J D Kirk
A Rock and a Hard Place by JD Kirk is book 21 in the DCI Logan crime thriller series.
This is whether Logan will return as a serving policeman.
There is also a couple of murders as well to investigate but the main question is whether Logan will be back.
Highly recommended
A Rock and a Hard Place by JD Kirk is book 21 in the DCI Logan crime thriller series.
This is whether Logan will return as a serving policeman.
There is also a couple of murders as well to investigate but the main question is whether Logan will be back.
Highly recommended
October 19, 2025
JD Kirk is an author I only discovered in the past couple of years. I liked the two books I read in his DCI Logan series, so I was very happy to find this, and it didn’t disappoint.
I enjoy police procedurals. I think it’s because I like seeing a mystery unwrapped in a logical manner, but also because I rarely find the mysteries that have ordinary citizens becoming super-sleuths overnight to be credible. I prefer to follow the police as they investigate a case.
It turns out that JD Kirk is the pseudonym of children’s author and screenwriter Barry Hutchison, and since his DCI Logan series started in 2019 with A Litter of Bones, he’s managed to add another 20 books in short order! I’ve only read Blood and Treachery (Book 4) and An Isolated Incident (Book 11) but thoroughly enjoyed them both. Now, having read A Rock and a Hard Place, I’m going to have to search out more.
This novel opens with Logan returning to work in an advisory capacity to help with the investigation into an unexplained death. The body of a ‘washed-up 80s rock legend’ called Johnny Freestone, has been discovered in a cave near to the North Coast 500 tourist route and there’s pressure from on-high to clear the case quickly to avoid a media firestorm. The senior investigating officer, DCI Evan McCulloch, has been drafted in from the Borders to fill the vacancy left by Logan when he took leave after his last case. (That case is only alluded to in this book, and I’m about to read A Killer of Influence to find out what happened.)
McCulloch is a tick-box detective who is both annoying and unpleasant to those he works with. Not surprisingly, Logan’s team are longing for their boss to come back but Logan seems to be a changed character – unsure of himself and wary of getting too involved.
When the post-mortem reveals that Freestone had been bludgeoned around the head before falling in the caves there are a good handful of suspects for the police to consider, and of course there’s a twist when the killer is finally revealed. Equally important to the story, however, are the dynamics of the police team which are also satisfactorily resolved at the end.
My verdict
These novels are set in the Highlands of Scotland which, to my mind, is always a great location; and as JD Kirk lives there, his understanding of the terrain and descriptions are good. The scenery, colours and the peripheral characters all feel real.
In the other two books from this series that I’ve read, Logan was irascible, forceful and obviously a difficult employee, often pushing his senior officers to their absolute limit. But in this he’s a changed man. The reader is told why this is, but not the details of the previous case. You only get hints of how dreadful it was through Logan’s flashbacks, but it’s enough to explain why he takes the petty humiliations meted out by McCulloch on the chin. Like his colleagues, I was longing for Logan to rediscover himself, but I also enjoyed the way JD Kirk tells how that recovery happens. I got quite immersed in that.
Like his bosses, McCulloch wants a quick result. He’s quick to snatch at any tenuous lead and desperate to arrest someone – anyone. As the mystery jinks about, different people are put on and off the list of suspects, but I never felt a very close connection to any of them. Johnny Freestone had been a visitor to the small village community when he died, so the backstories of these people are described rather lightly. I was, of course, following the case and the clues, but for me this story hinged on the police team. JD Kirk cleverly charts the way they – and Logan – recover their equilibrium.
I thought this was a very readable police procedural. A book you can sink into for the sheer enjoyment of a well-told story. 4 Stars.
Review by: Cornish Eskimo, Oundle Crime
I enjoy police procedurals. I think it’s because I like seeing a mystery unwrapped in a logical manner, but also because I rarely find the mysteries that have ordinary citizens becoming super-sleuths overnight to be credible. I prefer to follow the police as they investigate a case.
It turns out that JD Kirk is the pseudonym of children’s author and screenwriter Barry Hutchison, and since his DCI Logan series started in 2019 with A Litter of Bones, he’s managed to add another 20 books in short order! I’ve only read Blood and Treachery (Book 4) and An Isolated Incident (Book 11) but thoroughly enjoyed them both. Now, having read A Rock and a Hard Place, I’m going to have to search out more.
This novel opens with Logan returning to work in an advisory capacity to help with the investigation into an unexplained death. The body of a ‘washed-up 80s rock legend’ called Johnny Freestone, has been discovered in a cave near to the North Coast 500 tourist route and there’s pressure from on-high to clear the case quickly to avoid a media firestorm. The senior investigating officer, DCI Evan McCulloch, has been drafted in from the Borders to fill the vacancy left by Logan when he took leave after his last case. (That case is only alluded to in this book, and I’m about to read A Killer of Influence to find out what happened.)
McCulloch is a tick-box detective who is both annoying and unpleasant to those he works with. Not surprisingly, Logan’s team are longing for their boss to come back but Logan seems to be a changed character – unsure of himself and wary of getting too involved.
When the post-mortem reveals that Freestone had been bludgeoned around the head before falling in the caves there are a good handful of suspects for the police to consider, and of course there’s a twist when the killer is finally revealed. Equally important to the story, however, are the dynamics of the police team which are also satisfactorily resolved at the end.
My verdict
These novels are set in the Highlands of Scotland which, to my mind, is always a great location; and as JD Kirk lives there, his understanding of the terrain and descriptions are good. The scenery, colours and the peripheral characters all feel real.
In the other two books from this series that I’ve read, Logan was irascible, forceful and obviously a difficult employee, often pushing his senior officers to their absolute limit. But in this he’s a changed man. The reader is told why this is, but not the details of the previous case. You only get hints of how dreadful it was through Logan’s flashbacks, but it’s enough to explain why he takes the petty humiliations meted out by McCulloch on the chin. Like his colleagues, I was longing for Logan to rediscover himself, but I also enjoyed the way JD Kirk tells how that recovery happens. I got quite immersed in that.
Like his bosses, McCulloch wants a quick result. He’s quick to snatch at any tenuous lead and desperate to arrest someone – anyone. As the mystery jinks about, different people are put on and off the list of suspects, but I never felt a very close connection to any of them. Johnny Freestone had been a visitor to the small village community when he died, so the backstories of these people are described rather lightly. I was, of course, following the case and the clues, but for me this story hinged on the police team. JD Kirk cleverly charts the way they – and Logan – recover their equilibrium.
I thought this was a very readable police procedural. A book you can sink into for the sheer enjoyment of a well-told story. 4 Stars.
Review by: Cornish Eskimo, Oundle Crime
July 28, 2025
Good to see Logan back to his best self. Another great read, effortlessly told.
July 27, 2025
can't wait for more !! 😃
July 26, 2025
Not the best in the series.
Sadly I didn't enjoy this one very much. I knew who killed the rock star as author deliberately didn't pick up on a discrepancy early on,which was blatantly obvious! Plus why did Logan not say he never actually saw who was driving the car that they chased! It was remiss of the author as you wouldn't assume it belonged to the owner! You would question if someone else could have been driving it! But this was all glossed over and not mentioned at all si the big reveak coukd be announced at the end.. As a result I knew who wasn't the killer of the cousin. The book didn't flow. I actually put it down a few times and I always read these books in one sitting. Maybe a new character joining the team woukd be good! A new sergeant to replace Hamza.
Sadly I didn't enjoy this one very much. I knew who killed the rock star as author deliberately didn't pick up on a discrepancy early on,which was blatantly obvious! Plus why did Logan not say he never actually saw who was driving the car that they chased! It was remiss of the author as you wouldn't assume it belonged to the owner! You would question if someone else could have been driving it! But this was all glossed over and not mentioned at all si the big reveak coukd be announced at the end.. As a result I knew who wasn't the killer of the cousin. The book didn't flow. I actually put it down a few times and I always read these books in one sitting. Maybe a new character joining the team woukd be good! A new sergeant to replace Hamza.
July 29, 2025
★★★★★
Never meet your heroes!
Just when you think the NC500 couldn’t get any more popular among tourists, a washed-up '80s rockstar turns up dead in a cave along the incredibly overrun tourist route. What initially appears to be a tragic accident quickly reveals something far more sinister, and Logan is forced to confront the murky past of his teenage idol. But not all is as it seems; the team, and Logan especially, are still grappling with the aftermath of their last major case and the uncertainty of upcoming team changes…
J.D. Kirk delivers another fantastic addition to the DCI Logan series! His talent for crafting compelling characters and describing them in such minute detail makes each book a deeply immersive experience. At the same time, these characters are quirky, offering a natural way to introduce humor into the often quite dark cases that DCI Logan and his team face.
I am incredibly excited for this series to continue. While I have enjoyed the spin-off series, Robert Hoon and DI Heather Filson, DCI Logan remains my absolute favorite, and usually brings together the best of the entire Logan universe!
🎧 Angus King once again nailed it! His narration and character voices instantly transport me to the damp, cloudy Highlands.
Never meet your heroes!
Just when you think the NC500 couldn’t get any more popular among tourists, a washed-up '80s rockstar turns up dead in a cave along the incredibly overrun tourist route. What initially appears to be a tragic accident quickly reveals something far more sinister, and Logan is forced to confront the murky past of his teenage idol. But not all is as it seems; the team, and Logan especially, are still grappling with the aftermath of their last major case and the uncertainty of upcoming team changes…
J.D. Kirk delivers another fantastic addition to the DCI Logan series! His talent for crafting compelling characters and describing them in such minute detail makes each book a deeply immersive experience. At the same time, these characters are quirky, offering a natural way to introduce humor into the often quite dark cases that DCI Logan and his team face.
I am incredibly excited for this series to continue. While I have enjoyed the spin-off series, Robert Hoon and DI Heather Filson, DCI Logan remains my absolute favorite, and usually brings together the best of the entire Logan universe!
🎧 Angus King once again nailed it! His narration and character voices instantly transport me to the damp, cloudy Highlands.
August 9, 2025
My Rating: 3⭐️⭐️⭐️ it pains me to give this less than 4 but after 21 there had to be at least one!!
DCI Jack Logan is back!! Well kind of…
Washed up 80s rock legend Johnny Freestone is found dead in a cave it looks like a drunken accident. But police detective and secret super fan Jack Logan isn’t convinced.
Jack is only kind of back, in an advisory capacity after his last case… and not being in charge doesn’t really agree with him or his team.
Ok, so I am super behind in my reviews so this will likely be shorter than usual, however this didn’t quite hit the spot for me. Don’t get me wrong I still liked it very much, but something was missing for me. I think the fact that Jack was unsure of himself really threw me off.
I know that was the whole point but… I didn’t like that. I didn’t like him not being in charge and I don’t like that Ben is no longer on the team.
As always I still really love all the characters and the story was pretty good.. but not great. The writing is as always really good, drags me in and gives me a laugh. You definitely cannot jump into this series at book 21 I mean … you could but what kind of crazy person are you… you do you… but I don’t recommend it.
I liked the dynamics of Dave, Tyler and Ham… it was all there but not quite the riot i am used it.
Overall, if you are a fan you kind of have to read it and I wouldn’t discourage it and as I have already said if you are looking to stat this series… don’t be weird and start here… start at book 1 🤣
DCI Jack Logan is back!! Well kind of…
Washed up 80s rock legend Johnny Freestone is found dead in a cave it looks like a drunken accident. But police detective and secret super fan Jack Logan isn’t convinced.
Jack is only kind of back, in an advisory capacity after his last case… and not being in charge doesn’t really agree with him or his team.
Ok, so I am super behind in my reviews so this will likely be shorter than usual, however this didn’t quite hit the spot for me. Don’t get me wrong I still liked it very much, but something was missing for me. I think the fact that Jack was unsure of himself really threw me off.
I know that was the whole point but… I didn’t like that. I didn’t like him not being in charge and I don’t like that Ben is no longer on the team.
As always I still really love all the characters and the story was pretty good.. but not great. The writing is as always really good, drags me in and gives me a laugh. You definitely cannot jump into this series at book 21 I mean … you could but what kind of crazy person are you… you do you… but I don’t recommend it.
I liked the dynamics of Dave, Tyler and Ham… it was all there but not quite the riot i am used it.
Overall, if you are a fan you kind of have to read it and I wouldn’t discourage it and as I have already said if you are looking to stat this series… don’t be weird and start here… start at book 1 🤣
November 7, 2025
Love this series
Another winner for DCI Logan and it is a good one. An old rock star is found dead and the hunt is on for a killer. Everybody hates him so it takes some work to narrow it down. So they ask Logan to come back from his leave to advise on the case. The SIO running it is a moron and Jack is forced to get more involved. I loved the twists and turns in this story. It was multi faceted. And the ending was quite shocking and something amusing left me gobsmacked! I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next one! I just love all the characters.
Another winner for DCI Logan and it is a good one. An old rock star is found dead and the hunt is on for a killer. Everybody hates him so it takes some work to narrow it down. So they ask Logan to come back from his leave to advise on the case. The SIO running it is a moron and Jack is forced to get more involved. I loved the twists and turns in this story. It was multi faceted. And the ending was quite shocking and something amusing left me gobsmacked! I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next one! I just love all the characters.
October 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this one. I listened to it with the husband and we both love Angus King as a narrator. The mystery is good and twisty. The plot is clue-littered but complex and interesting. The team, as always, are funny and sincere. The last one in the series before this didnt hit the mark as well as they usually do (although still good) but this one gets 10/10 again! 21 in the series and I cant see why I won't do them all
September 15, 2025
As always, this was a novel with great characters, plot and narrative. The opening was hilarious and there were many other parts that made me laugh out loud. Being from the north of Scotland, I recognise so many places - and the attitude of some locals to the influx of visitors because of the NC500 was portrayed very realistically.
There was also , unsurprisingly, a change in mood for Logan which highlighted the psychological difficulties after what he went through.
There were excellent twists that I didn't see coming and it was just great to read the next instalment of this brilliant series.
There was also , unsurprisingly, a change in mood for Logan which highlighted the psychological difficulties after what he went through.
There were excellent twists that I didn't see coming and it was just great to read the next instalment of this brilliant series.
August 4, 2025
What can I day these book series just get better and better, I love DCI Logan & Team, I hope the wait isn’t too long for next book in series.
August 11, 2025
All I can say is this. J.D.Kirk - hurry up and write the next book in the Jack Logan series.
December 17, 2025
An easy and thoroughly entertaining novel. Ideal to relax with.
August 13, 2025
JD Kirk delivers a well executed crime thriller. I really enjoyed that the focus of this book felt more so about Jack and his struggles, complemented by a difficult and intriguing murder of a has-been celebrity.
The book takes place not long after what was an epic book 20 – and I’m glad JD Kirk took the time to explore the repercussions, particularly for Jack. I found this a realistic and unfiltered approach and it showed there is still a lot more for Kirk to explore with this series.
An excellent crime thriller that delivers for fans (character development, an intriguing death and twists and turns that keep you guessing).
The book takes place not long after what was an epic book 20 – and I’m glad JD Kirk took the time to explore the repercussions, particularly for Jack. I found this a realistic and unfiltered approach and it showed there is still a lot more for Kirk to explore with this series.
An excellent crime thriller that delivers for fans (character development, an intriguing death and twists and turns that keep you guessing).
August 12, 2025
The following review is NSFW. Read at your own risk. 🤣 Every pun is fully intentional and not merely coincidental.
A Rock and a Hard Place is the book version of the hardly earned female orgasm. You know the type that builds, filling you with anticipation of sweet, blissful release, and then, it doesn't come.
Tension builds again, you feel the edge of relief getting closer and closer but then it ebbs away. You were certain Jack was finally going to blow his head and your world would be set right; leaving you with a euphoric conclusion.
Luckily for you, your lover, or in this case the author, provides you with a great time in-between these moments of nearly-missed soul-satisfying, toe-tingling, joy.
Tyler's stag standoff.
A haunted penguin's cock.
Dave's inability to be summoned.
Tossing bounty's.
And finally, Art Garfunkel are all part of the that great time promised you.
And it is a great time, you nearly forget that Jack hasn't come around yet, and then the crescendo begins anew.
Even the cause of our frustration, DCI McCulloch, is urging Jack to erupt with his "then come" in Chapter 6.
Alas, no joy, boss.
In a slightly more serious vein, readers are used to a no-nonsense DCI Jack Logan and the version we're greeted with in the 21 installment of the series, well, that man isn't there. Because this is a work of fiction, we expect if not merely want, everything to go back to normal as quickly as possible. This time JD Kirk decided to humanize Jack even more by making his struggles with self-doubt, questioning his sobriety, basically exhibiting PTSD as something he just can't snap out of.
Throughout his career, Logan has seen and done a lot but the incidents in book 20 are what finally cause him to crack, and why wouldn't they?
To prematurely have Jack up and at em would be an incredible disservice to the character and to us.
The condescension of DCI McCulloch had me HATING him. I can't tell you how many times I muttered 'bastard' in my most Hoonian voice. But leave it to JD Kirk to have us go from wanting to kick in him the bollocks to loving (ok loving is a bit strong at this point, but you get my drift) him by the end.
Were there some flaws in this book, yes. Why would Hoon say McCulloch has been trying to get up to the highlands and McCulloch himself says hell no, he'd never want to be up there. But such a trivial thing didn't matter.
I think Hamza should become the new DI but some new blood in the form of a DS would be good. The longest serving DC is Tyler but Tyler is enough of an explanation on why no for him. Dave is newly minted, so no to him. Sinead is an excellent choice, but not quite yet.
Finally, Olivia. Her storyline in this book warmed my heart.
Despite all the ups and down, the ins and outs of this book, readers are sated, left with a pounding heart, a smile on their face, and for some, even a tear in their eye. It wasn't all for naught.
(CP to Amazon and Audible)
A Rock and a Hard Place is the book version of the hardly earned female orgasm. You know the type that builds, filling you with anticipation of sweet, blissful release, and then, it doesn't come.
Tension builds again, you feel the edge of relief getting closer and closer but then it ebbs away. You were certain Jack was finally going to blow his head and your world would be set right; leaving you with a euphoric conclusion.
Luckily for you, your lover, or in this case the author, provides you with a great time in-between these moments of nearly-missed soul-satisfying, toe-tingling, joy.
Tyler's stag standoff.
A haunted penguin's cock.
Dave's inability to be summoned.
Tossing bounty's.
And finally, Art Garfunkel are all part of the that great time promised you.
And it is a great time, you nearly forget that Jack hasn't come around yet, and then the crescendo begins anew.
Even the cause of our frustration, DCI McCulloch, is urging Jack to erupt with his "then come" in Chapter 6.
Alas, no joy, boss.
In a slightly more serious vein, readers are used to a no-nonsense DCI Jack Logan and the version we're greeted with in the 21 installment of the series, well, that man isn't there. Because this is a work of fiction, we expect if not merely want, everything to go back to normal as quickly as possible. This time JD Kirk decided to humanize Jack even more by making his struggles with self-doubt, questioning his sobriety, basically exhibiting PTSD as something he just can't snap out of.
Throughout his career, Logan has seen and done a lot but the incidents in book 20 are what finally cause him to crack, and why wouldn't they?
To prematurely have Jack up and at em would be an incredible disservice to the character and to us.
The condescension of DCI McCulloch had me HATING him. I can't tell you how many times I muttered 'bastard' in my most Hoonian voice. But leave it to JD Kirk to have us go from wanting to kick in him the bollocks to loving (ok loving is a bit strong at this point, but you get my drift) him by the end.
Were there some flaws in this book, yes. Why would Hoon say McCulloch has been trying to get up to the highlands and McCulloch himself says hell no, he'd never want to be up there. But such a trivial thing didn't matter.
I think Hamza should become the new DI but some new blood in the form of a DS would be good. The longest serving DC is Tyler but Tyler is enough of an explanation on why no for him. Dave is newly minted, so no to him. Sinead is an excellent choice, but not quite yet.
Finally, Olivia. Her storyline in this book warmed my heart.
Despite all the ups and down, the ins and outs of this book, readers are sated, left with a pounding heart, a smile on their face, and for some, even a tear in their eye. It wasn't all for naught.
(CP to Amazon and Audible)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
3 stars because it's my favourite detective series. But this one just didn't hit the spot.
Logan coming back from the last book and not being himself went on for too long for my liking, and was a story line that had already been done before, just not to that extent. And the plot itself was a bit boring, the usual humour was lacking for me this time and it was all just a bit meh. It took me weeks to read it and I normally get through one of JD Kirk's Logan books in a day or two.
Sorry JD , this one wasn't for me.
Logan coming back from the last book and not being himself went on for too long for my liking, and was a story line that had already been done before, just not to that extent. And the plot itself was a bit boring, the usual humour was lacking for me this time and it was all just a bit meh. It took me weeks to read it and I normally get through one of JD Kirk's Logan books in a day or two.
Sorry JD , this one wasn't for me.
July 29, 2025
JD Kirk and Jack Logan at their best
This was a wonderful installment in the Jack Logan series. Logan at his best with just the right balance of “support” from his boss (MItchell), and his team (Hamza, Snead [my favorite], Tyler, and Dave) and old friends (Ben). Logan is coaxed back to “assist” and/or “advise” on the possible murder of former rock star (don’t say “pop star”) in the far north of mainland Scotland. The Inverness based team relocate to investigate. Not everything is as simple and straightforward as it would appear. As usual, JD Kirk introduces some interesting rogue and local characters, plenty of red herrings, evokes dramatic images of the Scottish landscape, and writes some of the best dialogue you will read - clever, often funny and sarcastic. Twenty-one books in the dialogue exchanges between and within the team remains the core of the series and what I enjoy most. Even 21 books in the context for and the dialogue itself has evolved, and even while consistent themes are repeated it does not seen old. Rather JD Kirk has invested in understanding friendship dynamics and how relationships work; especially the use of humor and sarcasm, incredulity and “piss taking”, and trust and respect. A lot to like.
This was a wonderful installment in the Jack Logan series. Logan at his best with just the right balance of “support” from his boss (MItchell), and his team (Hamza, Snead [my favorite], Tyler, and Dave) and old friends (Ben). Logan is coaxed back to “assist” and/or “advise” on the possible murder of former rock star (don’t say “pop star”) in the far north of mainland Scotland. The Inverness based team relocate to investigate. Not everything is as simple and straightforward as it would appear. As usual, JD Kirk introduces some interesting rogue and local characters, plenty of red herrings, evokes dramatic images of the Scottish landscape, and writes some of the best dialogue you will read - clever, often funny and sarcastic. Twenty-one books in the dialogue exchanges between and within the team remains the core of the series and what I enjoy most. Even 21 books in the context for and the dialogue itself has evolved, and even while consistent themes are repeated it does not seen old. Rather JD Kirk has invested in understanding friendship dynamics and how relationships work; especially the use of humor and sarcasm, incredulity and “piss taking”, and trust and respect. A lot to like.
August 26, 2025
4.5 Stars
A Rock and a Hard Place is Book #21 in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers by J.D. Kirk.
The DCI Logan Crime Thrillers series by J.D. Kirk made for a gripping read while also weaving some dark humor, emotional depth, and nail-biting suspense through each instalment.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Scotland, from the bustling streets of Glasgow to the haunting beauty of the Highlands, this series immersed me in a world full of complex characters and chilling crimes.
DCI Jack Logan is a flawed and yet deeply relatable character. His sharp wit, haunted past, and relentless pursuit of justice make him a compelling figure. Mr. Kirk does a fantastic job of balancing Logan's personal struggles (such as his broken marriage, lingering trauma, and occasional self-doubt) with his professional brilliance. This duality added ‘real’ humanity to the character, making it easy for me to invest in him, even through his darkest moments.
Each book is packed with twists and turns, and is perfect for anyone who loves police procedurals, psychological thrillers, or character-driven dramas.
Happy Reading…
A Rock and a Hard Place is Book #21 in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers by J.D. Kirk.
The DCI Logan Crime Thrillers series by J.D. Kirk made for a gripping read while also weaving some dark humor, emotional depth, and nail-biting suspense through each instalment.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Scotland, from the bustling streets of Glasgow to the haunting beauty of the Highlands, this series immersed me in a world full of complex characters and chilling crimes.
DCI Jack Logan is a flawed and yet deeply relatable character. His sharp wit, haunted past, and relentless pursuit of justice make him a compelling figure. Mr. Kirk does a fantastic job of balancing Logan's personal struggles (such as his broken marriage, lingering trauma, and occasional self-doubt) with his professional brilliance. This duality added ‘real’ humanity to the character, making it easy for me to invest in him, even through his darkest moments.
Each book is packed with twists and turns, and is perfect for anyone who loves police procedurals, psychological thrillers, or character-driven dramas.
Happy Reading…
December 15, 2025
Jack's back!
I thoroughly enjoyed that the murder investigation was only half of the main story within this book. It had a perfect blend.
The crime part itself was pretty cut and dry with the suspect pool being miniscule, the killer confessing at the end, and the reason being understandable. I must say though, I was very happy that the victim died, not redeemable in any way.
Now for the Jack storyline throughout this book...it's what made me mark it up from a normal average score. It was handled so well, and you could feel his angst throughout. The scene between him and Olivia was wonderful, and it's great to see his family becoming closer and closer. I was so happy he opened up more too.
Great to see Hoon popping in for a few curse words and leaving again, great to hear Hamza is being promoted as he deserves a win, and I'm enjoying that Dave is now a more integral part of the team.
All in all the book was a very easy read which focused on the progression of the characters but still managed to fit in a great whodunnit.
Sad that I've read all in the Logan series (currently) and I cannot wait for the next one in due course.
8/10
I thoroughly enjoyed that the murder investigation was only half of the main story within this book. It had a perfect blend.
The crime part itself was pretty cut and dry with the suspect pool being miniscule, the killer confessing at the end, and the reason being understandable. I must say though, I was very happy that the victim died, not redeemable in any way.
Now for the Jack storyline throughout this book...it's what made me mark it up from a normal average score. It was handled so well, and you could feel his angst throughout. The scene between him and Olivia was wonderful, and it's great to see his family becoming closer and closer. I was so happy he opened up more too.
Great to see Hoon popping in for a few curse words and leaving again, great to hear Hamza is being promoted as he deserves a win, and I'm enjoying that Dave is now a more integral part of the team.
All in all the book was a very easy read which focused on the progression of the characters but still managed to fit in a great whodunnit.
Sad that I've read all in the Logan series (currently) and I cannot wait for the next one in due course.
8/10
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2025
Oh, Jack Logan is maturing like a fine red wine.
Book 21 sees Logan return to work as an advisor (not assistant). In a case involving his teen idol, a now very dead rockstar (not popstar) in a cave. The vintage ’80s legend has a past more entertaining than a Highland Gathering!
J.D. Kirk serves up a wild blend of sharp characters, dark mysteries, and enough Scottish charm to fill a kilt. His detail-loving style and his knack for the quirky mean there’s no shortage of snarky humour and clever banter. Seriously, the dialogue is so good I bought the audiobook just for the accents and sass. And speaking of narration, Angus King is pure magic. He brings this book to life (plus I can't pronounce half of the Scottish words).
This series is like the Scottish weather —full of surprises, a bit unpredictable, and needing loads of time indoors (to read in one sitting). Logan’s still my favourite, with just the right mix of grit, sarcasm and charm.
Absolutely brilliant instalment.
Book 21 sees Logan return to work as an advisor (not assistant). In a case involving his teen idol, a now very dead rockstar (not popstar) in a cave. The vintage ’80s legend has a past more entertaining than a Highland Gathering!
J.D. Kirk serves up a wild blend of sharp characters, dark mysteries, and enough Scottish charm to fill a kilt. His detail-loving style and his knack for the quirky mean there’s no shortage of snarky humour and clever banter. Seriously, the dialogue is so good I bought the audiobook just for the accents and sass. And speaking of narration, Angus King is pure magic. He brings this book to life (plus I can't pronounce half of the Scottish words).
This series is like the Scottish weather —full of surprises, a bit unpredictable, and needing loads of time indoors (to read in one sitting). Logan’s still my favourite, with just the right mix of grit, sarcasm and charm.
Absolutely brilliant instalment.
August 4, 2025
JD Kirk nails it, as usual. I was a tiny bit underwhelmed by his previous offering in the Inspector Logan series, but he’s back in top form here. The DCI is back, albeit in an advisory capacity, assisting his temporary replacement with a suitably complicated murder. The fact that said replacement is a staggeringly horrible, smug jerk whose behaviour stealthily enticed Logan back to the job? Perfect.
One thing I really appreciate is the way the author can handle a very large cast of characters without neglecting anyone, but also not making an appearance feel shoehorned in. Interactions between characters feel organic, included with intentionality, always flowing with the plot, and often serving to advance it. To me, that's an ultimate skill.
Solid mystery, solid writing, solid development for characters that I have grown very fond of.
One thing I really appreciate is the way the author can handle a very large cast of characters without neglecting anyone, but also not making an appearance feel shoehorned in. Interactions between characters feel organic, included with intentionality, always flowing with the plot, and often serving to advance it. To me, that's an ultimate skill.
Solid mystery, solid writing, solid development for characters that I have grown very fond of.
August 30, 2025
The police detectives in the Jack Logan series feel like old friends every time I read a new book, and I can't wait to catch up with them. Yes, the series is bordering on comedy at times and there are always some quirky characters, but this was a good, solid murder investigation too. As once before, Jack is taking time off to question his future as a detective and he is cleverly lured back to act as an adviser on a case. Interestingly, the murder victim is a rock star that Jack idolized as a teenager. There are good roles here for Tyler, Hamsa and all the recurring team. Bob hoon even has a cameo appearance and retired Ben is still on the fringes. I did not guess the killer(s) or the outcome of this one so cheers to that. And as always, Angus King is the perfect narrator and I could listen to him recite the telephone book. Now the long wait for the next book!
July 27, 2025
Best So Far
I review right after I read so I am usually high with like or low with "why bother?". The early Logan's were a little gory but they made me laugh, chortle, giggle. Good characters, great plots and settings. To my surprise I even became a fan of Hoon and Hoonigan stickers appeared on two cars in my neighborhood. A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE is the best by far, at least for me. The plot surprises and keeps the reader right there in a cave in the Scottish Highlands, near a campgound, and a familiar " home room" with white boards and teapot and Taggart. It's characters, of course, that keep readers tuned in and coming back. Characters with heart, quirks, feelings, you know, CHARACTER! Loved this book, hope you can tell.
I review right after I read so I am usually high with like or low with "why bother?". The early Logan's were a little gory but they made me laugh, chortle, giggle. Good characters, great plots and settings. To my surprise I even became a fan of Hoon and Hoonigan stickers appeared on two cars in my neighborhood. A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE is the best by far, at least for me. The plot surprises and keeps the reader right there in a cave in the Scottish Highlands, near a campgound, and a familiar " home room" with white boards and teapot and Taggart. It's characters, of course, that keep readers tuned in and coming back. Characters with heart, quirks, feelings, you know, CHARACTER! Loved this book, hope you can tell.
August 2, 2025
Another smasher
I'm not going to write much about the plot of the latest book as I think it is good for a reader to jump into a new story without clues as to where the book may take them. I've been waiting a while for book 21 but it's certainly reached the acclaimed and superb standard of the first twenty. The combination of dark crime and humour blend together perfectly. In the back of my mind I would love to believe tucked away in the Highlands of somewhere else in the world there is a tightly knit group who could resemble Jack and his team. It was a nice touch to keep Ben in the loop too. Mr. Kirk, you really are a writer very close to my heart. Never stop writing about Jack Logan, he really is a legend. Thank you JD.
I'm not going to write much about the plot of the latest book as I think it is good for a reader to jump into a new story without clues as to where the book may take them. I've been waiting a while for book 21 but it's certainly reached the acclaimed and superb standard of the first twenty. The combination of dark crime and humour blend together perfectly. In the back of my mind I would love to believe tucked away in the Highlands of somewhere else in the world there is a tightly knit group who could resemble Jack and his team. It was a nice touch to keep Ben in the loop too. Mr. Kirk, you really are a writer very close to my heart. Never stop writing about Jack Logan, he really is a legend. Thank you JD.
November 12, 2025
I had held off reading this until a few months after it was published as I was reading other books.
Reading it was a pleasure, with a number of places where I laughed out load due descriptions of the team, especially in the early chapters.
Jack starts on long term leave after the last book before he joins the team on the north coast (and NC 500) for a murder of his childhood rock idol is found dead. It covers the community’s issues with the added tourism or car racing to bag Scotland’s equivalent of route 66 with the former rockstar’s attempts to put the town on the map.
There are a few twists and turns as the team solve the case with a few interesting characters and is an enjoyable addition to the series. Can’t wait for the next one.
Reading it was a pleasure, with a number of places where I laughed out load due descriptions of the team, especially in the early chapters.
Jack starts on long term leave after the last book before he joins the team on the north coast (and NC 500) for a murder of his childhood rock idol is found dead. It covers the community’s issues with the added tourism or car racing to bag Scotland’s equivalent of route 66 with the former rockstar’s attempts to put the town on the map.
There are a few twists and turns as the team solve the case with a few interesting characters and is an enjoyable addition to the series. Can’t wait for the next one.
July 25, 2025
Stoatin' marvellous.
The big yin's back. Logan has been recovering from the carnage of his last case. His sense of guilt is massive, self-confidence zero. His superintendent calls him in to ADVISE an ex Borders by-the-book DCI who is taking his old job if he does not want to return. Body of old rockstar found in Smoo Cave. Who dunnit? Through his teeth Jack ADVISES. The ex Border man gets it wrong. Need I say more. All the gang are present. Ben is now a barista and Moira's toyboy or something along those lines. Great stuff. Logan and story back on splendid form. Jokes galore. Loved it. Highly recommended.
The big yin's back. Logan has been recovering from the carnage of his last case. His sense of guilt is massive, self-confidence zero. His superintendent calls him in to ADVISE an ex Borders by-the-book DCI who is taking his old job if he does not want to return. Body of old rockstar found in Smoo Cave. Who dunnit? Through his teeth Jack ADVISES. The ex Border man gets it wrong. Need I say more. All the gang are present. Ben is now a barista and Moira's toyboy or something along those lines. Great stuff. Logan and story back on splendid form. Jokes galore. Loved it. Highly recommended.
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