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Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller #2
Wings of Madness
Serial killers, like madness and gravity, just need a small push…
The body of a third young woman is discovered in a field outside Pawtucket Falls in New England the day FBI agent and profiler Gus Wheeler and his partner arrive to investigate a string of murders. The killings seem random, yet each victim was last seen in a club in the city’s Music Row, a scene Gus is uniquely qualified to navigate.
Camera footage shows the most recent victim flirting with the moody bassist of a popular cover band. Gus knows the former prodigy from his time in the New Orleans jazz scene, but the suspect’s memory is hazy, likely due to his rock star lifestyle. Complicating their inquiry, there’s no record of any of the victims leaving the clubs—with the bassist or alone. So where were they taken and how?
A serial killer’s at work, but as they circle their suspect, the killer strikes first making it personal for Gus. And with time running out, Gus is forced to play a madman’s game.
The body of a third young woman is discovered in a field outside Pawtucket Falls in New England the day FBI agent and profiler Gus Wheeler and his partner arrive to investigate a string of murders. The killings seem random, yet each victim was last seen in a club in the city’s Music Row, a scene Gus is uniquely qualified to navigate.
Camera footage shows the most recent victim flirting with the moody bassist of a popular cover band. Gus knows the former prodigy from his time in the New Orleans jazz scene, but the suspect’s memory is hazy, likely due to his rock star lifestyle. Complicating their inquiry, there’s no record of any of the victims leaving the clubs—with the bassist or alone. So where were they taken and how?
A serial killer’s at work, but as they circle their suspect, the killer strikes first making it personal for Gus. And with time running out, Gus is forced to play a madman’s game.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2025
18 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
R. John Dingle
2 books167 followersR. John Dingle is the author of psychological thrillers set in New England. His debut novel – Karma Never Sleeps – published in April 2025 is the first in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller series. The second in the series – Wings of Madness – is due out this November. He and his wife currently call a small island in Mid-Coast Maine ‘home’, both living, writing and boating from their restored 200-year old house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
November 10, 2025
I have always loved a good procedural read, and this one checked all the boxes for me. The book opens up in the mind of our antagonist with one of his victims. This immediately set the tone for what was to come.
I loved the chemistry between the MCs. Gus and Vanessa have such an amazing partnership. I also love the fact that it's not romantic, so it's not distracting from the plot at all. Their banter also adds some comedic relief, which is always a good thing with intense reads like this one.
I loved the differing POVs. Getting into the minds of different characters kept me on my toes and invested in the story. It also made the investigation even more intense. When I thought it was one thing, it was always something else. So, the suspense just kept mounting, and I was thoroughly invested. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I did figure out the killer pretty early on, though. However, that didn't make the book less enjoyable for me. I really can't wait to see what is in store for Gus and his team next.
Thank you to R. John Dingle for my eARC of his book. All opinions are 100% my own.
I loved the chemistry between the MCs. Gus and Vanessa have such an amazing partnership. I also love the fact that it's not romantic, so it's not distracting from the plot at all. Their banter also adds some comedic relief, which is always a good thing with intense reads like this one.
I loved the differing POVs. Getting into the minds of different characters kept me on my toes and invested in the story. It also made the investigation even more intense. When I thought it was one thing, it was always something else. So, the suspense just kept mounting, and I was thoroughly invested. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I did figure out the killer pretty early on, though. However, that didn't make the book less enjoyable for me. I really can't wait to see what is in store for Gus and his team next.
Thank you to R. John Dingle for my eARC of his book. All opinions are 100% my own.
November 20, 2025
Another immersive and intriguing mystery with FBI agent Gus and his partner Vanessa! This time they’re trying to track down a serial killer whose victims vanish from local music clubs. They enter, but no one sees them leave. How is the killer abducting them?
Starting with a slow burn investigation as multiple suspects emerged and then ramping up with unbelievable intensity, this second installment in the series was just as enticing as the first! It has a different vibe from the first book and can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend both. Along with Gus’s POV, there’s Taylor’s, a musician Gus knew in school whose perspective is captivating and disturbing. The best part for me, is that I was kept guessing the majority of the time. I vacillated about who I thought was responsible and only put the pieces together shortly before it was revealed. In hindsight the signs were definitely there. Well done Mr. Dingle!
The relationship between Gus and his partner Vanessa provides some needed levity as well as emotional depth and is one of my favorite aspects. Vanessa is somewhat of a profiler and I’d love to see her skills featured more in the future! The characters involved in the music scene all felt believable and real as did the atmosphere. When the atmosphere morphs into something darker, it becomes oppressive and claustrophobic with a frenetic pace to match. *shivers* I raced to the breathtaking and emotional finish!
R. John Dingle is perfecting his craft with a fabulously layered murder mystery, a cunning and deplorable villain and an FBI team you can’t help but root for. Bring on book three! For a taut high stakes game of cat-and-mouse and an all consuming race against time you’ll definitely want to snatch up WINGS OF MADNESS!
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Thank you to R. John Dingle and Tule Publishing for my gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Starting with a slow burn investigation as multiple suspects emerged and then ramping up with unbelievable intensity, this second installment in the series was just as enticing as the first! It has a different vibe from the first book and can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend both. Along with Gus’s POV, there’s Taylor’s, a musician Gus knew in school whose perspective is captivating and disturbing. The best part for me, is that I was kept guessing the majority of the time. I vacillated about who I thought was responsible and only put the pieces together shortly before it was revealed. In hindsight the signs were definitely there. Well done Mr. Dingle!
The relationship between Gus and his partner Vanessa provides some needed levity as well as emotional depth and is one of my favorite aspects. Vanessa is somewhat of a profiler and I’d love to see her skills featured more in the future! The characters involved in the music scene all felt believable and real as did the atmosphere. When the atmosphere morphs into something darker, it becomes oppressive and claustrophobic with a frenetic pace to match. *shivers* I raced to the breathtaking and emotional finish!
R. John Dingle is perfecting his craft with a fabulously layered murder mystery, a cunning and deplorable villain and an FBI team you can’t help but root for. Bring on book three! For a taut high stakes game of cat-and-mouse and an all consuming race against time you’ll definitely want to snatch up WINGS OF MADNESS!
____
Thank you to R. John Dingle and Tule Publishing for my gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
December 3, 2025
Perfect for fans of police procedurals with fantastic character development that you root for! Gus Wheeler and Vanessa are back at it again!
Someone is abducting and killing women from night clubs. No one has seen these women leave. Then bodies are discovered.
From beginning to end, I was completely immersed in the story. Gus and Vanessa make such interesting characters. The serial killer aspect really gives the story tension and the twist blew me away!
Wings Of Madness can be read as a standalone, but who would want to? Lol. I definitely recommend this to fans of crime, psychological thriller lovers, and police procedurals. I’ll read anything he writes!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Someone is abducting and killing women from night clubs. No one has seen these women leave. Then bodies are discovered.
From beginning to end, I was completely immersed in the story. Gus and Vanessa make such interesting characters. The serial killer aspect really gives the story tension and the twist blew me away!
Wings Of Madness can be read as a standalone, but who would want to? Lol. I definitely recommend this to fans of crime, psychological thriller lovers, and police procedurals. I’ll read anything he writes!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 8, 2025
Another great FBI thriller read by John R Dingle! This was the second book in his Gus Wheeler series and I really enjoyed it! The story and familiar characters from the first book “Karma Never Sleeps” had me hooked from the beginning and totally immersed me in the story.
I absolutely love police procedurals and psychological thrillers and this was the perfect mix of both of those things! I loved going through the FBI tactics with the characters and also feeling like I was losing my mind with the psychological cat and mouse game in the other character’s mind at the same time. It was the best of both worlds of being in the suspect’s brain and the FBI agent’s brain.
Many thanks to John R Dingle for my gifted copy all opinions are my own. I can’t wait to continue this series. The first two books in the series are a testament that Dingle will be an author to watch for as he will become one of your favorite FBI thriller writers. This is what a thriller series is all about!
I absolutely love police procedurals and psychological thrillers and this was the perfect mix of both of those things! I loved going through the FBI tactics with the characters and also feeling like I was losing my mind with the psychological cat and mouse game in the other character’s mind at the same time. It was the best of both worlds of being in the suspect’s brain and the FBI agent’s brain.
Many thanks to John R Dingle for my gifted copy all opinions are my own. I can’t wait to continue this series. The first two books in the series are a testament that Dingle will be an author to watch for as he will become one of your favorite FBI thriller writers. This is what a thriller series is all about!
September 17, 2025
This story pulled me in with its mix of mystery and psychological tension. Gus and Vanessa were the heart of the book and I loved their bond. The creepy tunnels, FBI threads, and survival moments kept me hooked from start to finish.
November 27, 2025
Wings of Madness is darker and grittier!
Gus Wheeler is back!! The book opens with a crime that feels too neat to be random. FBI agent Gus Wheeler is called to Pawtucket Falls, where young women have started turning up dead in open fields, each one last seen at the same club on Music Row. There are no witnesses, no footage, and no clear connection between the victims. What begins as a standard investigation slowly becomes personal when Gus realises one of the suspects might be someone he's crossed paths with before.
What makes this story work so well is how the author layers tension. The deeper Gus and his partner Vanessa dig, the more the case starts to twist back on itself. I love how the book stops feeling procedural and starts feeling psychological.
I really like Gus and Vanessa and their dynamic. He's an interesting lead because he's not perfect, and Vanessa balances him beautifully. I love their banter and the way Vanessa trolls Gus. It brings the much-needed laughs to this gripping thriller!
The author's writing is tight and cinematic. He builds atmosphere so well. That last bit in those tunnels had me racing through the pages!
Gus Wheeler is back!! The book opens with a crime that feels too neat to be random. FBI agent Gus Wheeler is called to Pawtucket Falls, where young women have started turning up dead in open fields, each one last seen at the same club on Music Row. There are no witnesses, no footage, and no clear connection between the victims. What begins as a standard investigation slowly becomes personal when Gus realises one of the suspects might be someone he's crossed paths with before.
What makes this story work so well is how the author layers tension. The deeper Gus and his partner Vanessa dig, the more the case starts to twist back on itself. I love how the book stops feeling procedural and starts feeling psychological.
I really like Gus and Vanessa and their dynamic. He's an interesting lead because he's not perfect, and Vanessa balances him beautifully. I love their banter and the way Vanessa trolls Gus. It brings the much-needed laughs to this gripping thriller!
The author's writing is tight and cinematic. He builds atmosphere so well. That last bit in those tunnels had me racing through the pages!
November 10, 2025
Gus Wheeler is back in book 2 to investigate a string of murders. Seemingly random but each victim was last seen in a club in the city’s Music Row. Last seen in but there’s no evidence to indicate any of the victims left the club!
Diving a little bit into Gus’ past, he recognizes one of the band members from his time in the New Orleans jazz scene. Will Gus’ connection help or hinder this investigation? Sometimes working too close to home complicates things and it certainly does as Gus and his partner, Vanessa, close in on the suspect.
Dark (in more ways than one 🔦) and twisty- this one has a great mix of psychological elements and suspenseful intrigue to keep you entertained as Gus and Vanessa track down this killer all the while learning the history of Music City.
Loved the circle back to book one’s title “Karma Never Sleeps” as I read through! As the book progress you really felt the stakes raise and the book was hard to put down. You couldn’t stop til you found out what would happen. Looking forward to more Gus Wheeler and his thrilling FBI cases!
Thank you to the author, R John Dingle, and Tule Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. I received an EPUB and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Diving a little bit into Gus’ past, he recognizes one of the band members from his time in the New Orleans jazz scene. Will Gus’ connection help or hinder this investigation? Sometimes working too close to home complicates things and it certainly does as Gus and his partner, Vanessa, close in on the suspect.
Dark (in more ways than one 🔦) and twisty- this one has a great mix of psychological elements and suspenseful intrigue to keep you entertained as Gus and Vanessa track down this killer all the while learning the history of Music City.
Loved the circle back to book one’s title “Karma Never Sleeps” as I read through! As the book progress you really felt the stakes raise and the book was hard to put down. You couldn’t stop til you found out what would happen. Looking forward to more Gus Wheeler and his thrilling FBI cases!
Thank you to the author, R John Dingle, and Tule Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. I received an EPUB and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 11, 2025
Gus Wheeler is back for a second installment and better than ever! Gus is such a compelling and well drawn character - a dogged FBI agent, but also a talented musician, and I love his interactions with his girlfriend Mel and his spitfire partner Vanessa! The music scene is really immersive and adds an extra layer to this police procedural / crime thriller. The multiple POV structure kept me guessing throughout, thinking Taylor was the killer, then praying he wasn’t, my head spinning with theories the entire time. The high-stakes twists and turns of this atmospheric serial killer thriller gave me strong Tami Hoag vibes, who I absolutely adore and credit to this day for my love of thrillers - high praise indeed!
R. John Dingle has a real winner on his hands with Gus Wheeler, so I hope we’ll get to read many more Gus and Vanessa adventures in the future!
R. John Dingle has a real winner on his hands with Gus Wheeler, so I hope we’ll get to read many more Gus and Vanessa adventures in the future!
November 11, 2025
I enjoyed the first in this detective series (Karma Never Sleeps) and this one is just as good though it is darker and more intense!
A serial killer cat-and-mouse game, claustrophobic underground tunnels, red herrings, and a police procedural made for an engrossing read. The humour in the two detectives’ relationship added levity to this twisty, dark read.
I’m looking forward to book 3!
Thanks to the author for the complimentary digital copy. All opinions are my own.
A serial killer cat-and-mouse game, claustrophobic underground tunnels, red herrings, and a police procedural made for an engrossing read. The humour in the two detectives’ relationship added levity to this twisty, dark read.
I’m looking forward to book 3!
Thanks to the author for the complimentary digital copy. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
I was so excited to get my hands on the sophomore book from R. John Dingle as I really enjoyed his first one. Wings of Madness is an immersive story taking you in to the middle of a serial killer murder spree centered in music scene.
I loved the music backdrop and
The Goo Goo Dolls, my absolute favorite band, are mentioned,
so... Best. Book. Ever.😂😂
While reading, I could totally envision this one playing out on screen.
There was a bit of a twist and I liked the creative spin.
I will definitely read more by this author.
I loved the music backdrop and
The Goo Goo Dolls, my absolute favorite band, are mentioned,
so... Best. Book. Ever.😂😂
While reading, I could totally envision this one playing out on screen.
There was a bit of a twist and I liked the creative spin.
I will definitely read more by this author.
November 12, 2025
4.5⭐
Wings Of Madness is book 2 in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller series and it can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed book 1 but I think this one had something more immersive and addictive. The music backdrop just gave it such a fun flair and the entire investigation was so intriguing. Right from the start you're plunged into the action and the pace keeps a steady beat until the end. I love how real the investigation feels, how close to reality the process is, it shows that the author truly did his research.
Gus is such a layered and fun character, it's impossible not to get attached to him. The plot moves at a fast pace and there's never a dull moment, the momentum never lets up which I really appreciated. I love how things were uncovered slowly and I was never sure where the author would take the story. The way Dingle blended police procedural and psychological thriller so well was absolutely amazing, it just made the perfect read for me. I absolutely loved how we were in the suspects brain and FBI’s as well, it made for such a crazy ride.
Overall, this is definitely a series that is not to be missed. John is an author to watch out for, I have no doubt that this series will just keep getting better and better. I can't wait for Gus Wheeler's next investigation!
✨️ Thank you to @thrillerbookloversthepulse, tulepublishing & @johnrdingle for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wings Of Madness is book 2 in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller series and it can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed book 1 but I think this one had something more immersive and addictive. The music backdrop just gave it such a fun flair and the entire investigation was so intriguing. Right from the start you're plunged into the action and the pace keeps a steady beat until the end. I love how real the investigation feels, how close to reality the process is, it shows that the author truly did his research.
Gus is such a layered and fun character, it's impossible not to get attached to him. The plot moves at a fast pace and there's never a dull moment, the momentum never lets up which I really appreciated. I love how things were uncovered slowly and I was never sure where the author would take the story. The way Dingle blended police procedural and psychological thriller so well was absolutely amazing, it just made the perfect read for me. I absolutely loved how we were in the suspects brain and FBI’s as well, it made for such a crazy ride.
Overall, this is definitely a series that is not to be missed. John is an author to watch out for, I have no doubt that this series will just keep getting better and better. I can't wait for Gus Wheeler's next investigation!
✨️ Thank you to @thrillerbookloversthepulse, tulepublishing & @johnrdingle for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2025
4.5 Stars!
This was a very engaging serial killer thriller! I really liked book one of this series, but this one was even more suspenseful and captivating! I was pulled in from the start!
The police procedural elements were done very well. I enjoyed the different POVs, atmospheric setting of the tunnels, and how everything unfolded. The last 100 or so pages were full of action and had me on the edge of my seat!
I did guess the ultimate killer, but it did not take away from my enjoyment of seeing if I was right as I was second guessing myself a lot and enjoyed seeing how it all played out.
This is book two in the Gus Wheeler series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Recommend checking this one out! Two for two now with this author and can’t wait to see what he writes next!
Thank you to @r.johndingle for this #gifted copy!🫶🏼
This was a very engaging serial killer thriller! I really liked book one of this series, but this one was even more suspenseful and captivating! I was pulled in from the start!
The police procedural elements were done very well. I enjoyed the different POVs, atmospheric setting of the tunnels, and how everything unfolded. The last 100 or so pages were full of action and had me on the edge of my seat!
I did guess the ultimate killer, but it did not take away from my enjoyment of seeing if I was right as I was second guessing myself a lot and enjoyed seeing how it all played out.
This is book two in the Gus Wheeler series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Recommend checking this one out! Two for two now with this author and can’t wait to see what he writes next!
Thank you to @r.johndingle for this #gifted copy!🫶🏼
November 3, 2025
We are back with Detective Gus Wheeler and his partner Vanessa with Dingle’s sophomore novel, Wings of Madness. This gave me major Criminal Minds vibes with a musical twist.
I love a thriller with multiple POVs, it just helps the story flow quicker and this did not disappoint. I loved that it mixed a bit of genres (criminal, psychological and procedural thriller) It was incredibly suspenseful from start to finish. I knew something wasn’t “right”, but the twist totally got me.
Gus and Vanessa’s relationship made me lol quite a few times which brought comic relief to the story. Some characters return, but you don’t necessarily need to read Karma Never Sleeps to read this one. Another addictive and bingey thriller! Thank you @r.johndingle for my copy and goodies!
I love a thriller with multiple POVs, it just helps the story flow quicker and this did not disappoint. I loved that it mixed a bit of genres (criminal, psychological and procedural thriller) It was incredibly suspenseful from start to finish. I knew something wasn’t “right”, but the twist totally got me.
Gus and Vanessa’s relationship made me lol quite a few times which brought comic relief to the story. Some characters return, but you don’t necessarily need to read Karma Never Sleeps to read this one. Another addictive and bingey thriller! Thank you @r.johndingle for my copy and goodies!
December 5, 2025
Loved this book just as much as the first! Def one you need to read. Will update review soon
November 21, 2025
I really liked WINGS OF MADNESS. The is the second book in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller Book series and I will probably go back and read the first book now. Psychological thrillers are usually some of my favorites, and this was no exception. The multiple POV’s was the best part and it kept me turning the pages late into the night!
Many thanks to R. John Dingle for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to R. John Dingle for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
November 28, 2025
@r.johndingle is back with the sequel to Karma Never Sleeps and this one is just as riveting as the first! Agent Gus Wheeler is such an interesting character and I love following along as he works cases. This particular installment involves a serial killer abducting and unaliving women from clubs on Music Row and it gets personal for Gus in more than one way. This book will keep you interested and turning those pages to find out what happens next and who the killer is!
November 11, 2025
Wings of Madness is the second book in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller series and just like the first book, Karma Never Sleeps, I absolutely loved it! This book gives off a Criminal Minds vibe, and the whole time I was reading this book I felt like I was watching a movie instead of reading it. It felt so real! Love it so much!
The book is about the discovery of the bodies of three young women who have no connection to each other but were both last seen at clubs in the Music Row area although they disappeared at different clubs on different nights, and their bodies were found on different days and locations. The three victims were last seen entering the club and they were also seen inside the club as well, but none of them were seen walking out of the club. Gus and his coworker Vanessa investigate the case and learn that the connection between the three murders is clubs, music, and a band where Gus knows one of the members, the bass player, because they went to the same school—Taylor. And apparently Taylor is a suspect in this case. Unfortunately Taylor is not in the best of mental health as he has had several episodes where he doesn’t remember things, is paranoid, and often hallucinates which makes this case even more interesting.
From the start of the book I was intrigued and curious how the book would end, and it didn’t disappoint. I liked how R. John Dingle told the story, listing all the music and of course all the investigations in detail, and how the story ended. Even though I could guess where it was going, I still enjoyed it. And I also liked how Gus and Vanessa worked, they were a good team and complemented each other—not in terms of romance, but they were like brother and sister. And I love the multiple POVs here which I think makes the storyline even better.
Bottom line, I really liked this book. Period. And I can’t wait for more Gus Wheeler stories and cases!
If you love psychological thrillers, FBI agents, and Criminal Minds, you will definitely enjoy this book too! Take note of this, Wings of Madness will be out on November 12th!!! 🤎
The book is about the discovery of the bodies of three young women who have no connection to each other but were both last seen at clubs in the Music Row area although they disappeared at different clubs on different nights, and their bodies were found on different days and locations. The three victims were last seen entering the club and they were also seen inside the club as well, but none of them were seen walking out of the club. Gus and his coworker Vanessa investigate the case and learn that the connection between the three murders is clubs, music, and a band where Gus knows one of the members, the bass player, because they went to the same school—Taylor. And apparently Taylor is a suspect in this case. Unfortunately Taylor is not in the best of mental health as he has had several episodes where he doesn’t remember things, is paranoid, and often hallucinates which makes this case even more interesting.
From the start of the book I was intrigued and curious how the book would end, and it didn’t disappoint. I liked how R. John Dingle told the story, listing all the music and of course all the investigations in detail, and how the story ended. Even though I could guess where it was going, I still enjoyed it. And I also liked how Gus and Vanessa worked, they were a good team and complemented each other—not in terms of romance, but they were like brother and sister. And I love the multiple POVs here which I think makes the storyline even better.
Bottom line, I really liked this book. Period. And I can’t wait for more Gus Wheeler stories and cases!
If you love psychological thrillers, FBI agents, and Criminal Minds, you will definitely enjoy this book too! Take note of this, Wings of Madness will be out on November 12th!!! 🤎
September 30, 2025
I read the author's debut earlier this year and knew I needed to read this one. This is the 2nd book in his Gus Wheeler series and is just as good as the 1st! I am most definitely a fan!
Gus Wheeler has some time off and he's planning to spend it with his girlfriend Mel before she has to travel. But when a third young woman is found dead in a field outside of Pawtucket Falls, plans change. He and his partner Vanessa are called to the scene. The killings seem to be random, but the last place each victim has been seen is at a club in "Music Row". Camera footage shows the last person the latest victim is seen talking to is the bassist of a band that frequently plays the clubs. He's someone Gus knew back in college, a prodigy on the bass, but he also has a history of mental health issues. He doesn't remember anything from that night. Could he be the one taking these women? But there's no footage of them leaving the clubs. How are they being taken? Can Gus figure out this case before it's too late for one of their own?
This book, told in multiple POVs, is a crime thriller, police procedural, and a psychological thriller. It's a riveting read that sucked me in from the very first page. The stakes were high, and there was lots of tension. The suspense was gripping and made this unputdownable. This was certainly twisty, and I was shocked by the outcome. Gus Wheeler is not just an FBI Agent, but he's also a musician, and I'm a HUGE fan of how the author incorporates that into the story. I loved seeing him still with Mel and his partner Vanessa. This was truly an entertaining, dark, gritty thriller that I very much enjoyed and would HIGHLY recommend!🩷
Gus Wheeler has some time off and he's planning to spend it with his girlfriend Mel before she has to travel. But when a third young woman is found dead in a field outside of Pawtucket Falls, plans change. He and his partner Vanessa are called to the scene. The killings seem to be random, but the last place each victim has been seen is at a club in "Music Row". Camera footage shows the last person the latest victim is seen talking to is the bassist of a band that frequently plays the clubs. He's someone Gus knew back in college, a prodigy on the bass, but he also has a history of mental health issues. He doesn't remember anything from that night. Could he be the one taking these women? But there's no footage of them leaving the clubs. How are they being taken? Can Gus figure out this case before it's too late for one of their own?
This book, told in multiple POVs, is a crime thriller, police procedural, and a psychological thriller. It's a riveting read that sucked me in from the very first page. The stakes were high, and there was lots of tension. The suspense was gripping and made this unputdownable. This was certainly twisty, and I was shocked by the outcome. Gus Wheeler is not just an FBI Agent, but he's also a musician, and I'm a HUGE fan of how the author incorporates that into the story. I loved seeing him still with Mel and his partner Vanessa. This was truly an entertaining, dark, gritty thriller that I very much enjoyed and would HIGHLY recommend!🩷
November 11, 2025
If you haven’t jumped on the R. John Dingle / Gus Wheeler bandwagon yet, it’s time!! 🚨
The second installment in the Gus Wheeler series is outstanding — cleverly plotted, fast-paced, and filled with deeper character development for our favorite detective-slash-jazz player, Gus Wheeler. You can read this one as a standalone, but I highly recommend starting with book one to get the full depth of Gus’s story (and because book one was amazing too — double win!).
In Wings of Madness, a serial killer stalks Music Row. Three women have vanished after nights out at the clubs — and eerily, not a single person saw them leave. Not even on video.
The story starts dark and only gets darker. Gus and his partner Vanessa zero in on suspects early, and that’s when the tension really kicks in. Each one feels like the guy, and Dingle peels back layers of trauma, drug use, and mental unraveling until I was questioning everything. This killer is as complex as he is chilling.
That final act? A total race against time. I legit held my breath until the end. 😮💨 What. A. Doozy.
Final Verdict: 👍 Dark. Layered. Gritty. 🔥 Dingle is absolutely a rising star in the psychological crime thriller world, and I cannot wait to see what Gus and Vanessa tackle next! 4.5 ⭐️
The second installment in the Gus Wheeler series is outstanding — cleverly plotted, fast-paced, and filled with deeper character development for our favorite detective-slash-jazz player, Gus Wheeler. You can read this one as a standalone, but I highly recommend starting with book one to get the full depth of Gus’s story (and because book one was amazing too — double win!).
In Wings of Madness, a serial killer stalks Music Row. Three women have vanished after nights out at the clubs — and eerily, not a single person saw them leave. Not even on video.
The story starts dark and only gets darker. Gus and his partner Vanessa zero in on suspects early, and that’s when the tension really kicks in. Each one feels like the guy, and Dingle peels back layers of trauma, drug use, and mental unraveling until I was questioning everything. This killer is as complex as he is chilling.
That final act? A total race against time. I legit held my breath until the end. 😮💨 What. A. Doozy.
Final Verdict: 👍 Dark. Layered. Gritty. 🔥 Dingle is absolutely a rising star in the psychological crime thriller world, and I cannot wait to see what Gus and Vanessa tackle next! 4.5 ⭐️
October 18, 2025
Ya know if you enjoy the likes of Peter James and James Patterson I reckon you'll enjoy this author's work. His writing is really pretty good.
The author reached out to me to read the 2nd book of his Gus Wheeler FBI series - Wings of Madness and not having read the first it didnt put me off. Im so glad I did as I bloomin loved it.
Like I sat down picked up my kobo and put it down at the end loved it 🙈😂
Gus was a pretty awesome character I loved how he was a musician and how loyal he was to his FBI partner Vanessa. Also I wanna know how Vanessa changes her name all the time on his phone that was hilarious 😂 I need insider tips so I can play that trick!
The story is a psychological crime thriller that I found absolutely riveting. It's full of tension and suspenseful moments that had me on the edge of my seat. Super twisty and masterful plotted.
I definitely think you can read these as standalones as I didnt feel like I hadn't missed out by having not read book 1 of the series but you can guarantee I'll be reading it and keeping my eyes peeled for more of the series that follows.
Thank you to R. John Dingle for gifting me and ARC to read.
The author reached out to me to read the 2nd book of his Gus Wheeler FBI series - Wings of Madness and not having read the first it didnt put me off. Im so glad I did as I bloomin loved it.
Like I sat down picked up my kobo and put it down at the end loved it 🙈😂
Gus was a pretty awesome character I loved how he was a musician and how loyal he was to his FBI partner Vanessa. Also I wanna know how Vanessa changes her name all the time on his phone that was hilarious 😂 I need insider tips so I can play that trick!
The story is a psychological crime thriller that I found absolutely riveting. It's full of tension and suspenseful moments that had me on the edge of my seat. Super twisty and masterful plotted.
I definitely think you can read these as standalones as I didnt feel like I hadn't missed out by having not read book 1 of the series but you can guarantee I'll be reading it and keeping my eyes peeled for more of the series that follows.
Thank you to R. John Dingle for gifting me and ARC to read.
October 24, 2025
4.5/5 🌟
Gus Wheeler is back in action after being called to a small New England town where young women are disappearing and then turning up dead. With his partner Vanessa at his side, Gus will find himself mixed up in the darker side of the sleepy New England music scene.
I was extremely impressed by this one! While this is book 2 in the series it can absolutely be read as a standalone, I did not read the first book before diving into this one.
Gus and Vanessa are engaging and intelligent main characters who work really well as a team. This was paced in a way that seemed believable and not completely rushed and like some thrillers can be. I loved the glimpses into the nitty gritty of the FBI as well as all the legwork going into the case. It was super engaging and entertaining from the very beginning and I’ll definitely be reading more of this author in the future!
If you enjoy a police procedural type story with intelligent special agents that aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty then this one is for you!
Gus Wheeler is back in action after being called to a small New England town where young women are disappearing and then turning up dead. With his partner Vanessa at his side, Gus will find himself mixed up in the darker side of the sleepy New England music scene.
I was extremely impressed by this one! While this is book 2 in the series it can absolutely be read as a standalone, I did not read the first book before diving into this one.
Gus and Vanessa are engaging and intelligent main characters who work really well as a team. This was paced in a way that seemed believable and not completely rushed and like some thrillers can be. I loved the glimpses into the nitty gritty of the FBI as well as all the legwork going into the case. It was super engaging and entertaining from the very beginning and I’ll definitely be reading more of this author in the future!
If you enjoy a police procedural type story with intelligent special agents that aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty then this one is for you!
November 21, 2025
This is the second book in the Gus Wheeler FBI Thriller series, and it did not disappoint! FBI Agent and profiler Gus Wheeler is back with a WILD case. There have been a string of murders where each victim was last seen in a club in Music Row in Pawtucket Falls, New England. Y'all, I flew through this one. I love procedurals like this, especially with a serial killer running amuck. Gus and his partner Vanessa’s banter was fantastic and much needed for how dark a case this was. I was guessing several times on who was behind it all but still did not get it all right. I loved the music tie-in, and the pacing was fast and steady the entire time. I cannot recommend this series enough. Both books are great, but you can definitely read this one by itself if you’d like. Thank you @RJohnDingle for my copy to review!
September 29, 2025
Although this is the second book (first being Karma Never Sleeps) I reckon you could happily read this as a standalone if you'd like to jump immediately in!
I liked all the mentions of music and artists in this book. I absolutely love a music reference so this was a great added touch.
The mystery and the drama is still there, perhaps heightened from the first book! The author has a wonderful writing style and his ability to tell a story and have characters that you feel you really know and linger on in you after reading is similar to Stephen King's thrillers.
So if you're after your next thriller... Karma Never Sleeps is waiting for you, and then you can pick this up on release!
I liked all the mentions of music and artists in this book. I absolutely love a music reference so this was a great added touch.
The mystery and the drama is still there, perhaps heightened from the first book! The author has a wonderful writing style and his ability to tell a story and have characters that you feel you really know and linger on in you after reading is similar to Stephen King's thrillers.
So if you're after your next thriller... Karma Never Sleeps is waiting for you, and then you can pick this up on release!
October 8, 2025
Wow! This was such an addictive read. I’m so happy to be back in the Gus Wheeler world. A thrilling story with a wicked psychological twist. I couldn’t put it down.
The investigation takes us into the music industry and focuses on a band. Several victims have disappeared after this band performed, and the FBI is on the case. I was hooked by the music scenes and the cunning monster in this one. I loved getting to see more of Gus’s partner, Vanessa. She’s such a hoot, and I can’t get enough of how she’s always messing with Gus’ phone. Hilarious.
A dark and wicked read that kept me guessing until the very end. Perfect for lovers of deadly games, police procedural and psychological reads.
A very special thanks to the author for the gifted arc.
The investigation takes us into the music industry and focuses on a band. Several victims have disappeared after this band performed, and the FBI is on the case. I was hooked by the music scenes and the cunning monster in this one. I loved getting to see more of Gus’s partner, Vanessa. She’s such a hoot, and I can’t get enough of how she’s always messing with Gus’ phone. Hilarious.
A dark and wicked read that kept me guessing until the very end. Perfect for lovers of deadly games, police procedural and psychological reads.
A very special thanks to the author for the gifted arc.
September 10, 2025
Dark, gritty, and completely unputdownable. Even though this is the second book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone without missing a beat.
The story follows FBI profiler Gus Wheeler as he’s pulled into a chilling case where young women are vanishing from clubs without a trace. The setup hooked me immediately and the pacing never let up. The music scene backdrop gave the investigation a fresh, edgy vibe while still keeping the tension razor sharp.
I loved how layered the characters are, especially Gus. His personal connection to the case raised the stakes in such a heart pounding way and the blend of psychological depth and suspense kept me glued to the pages. You can tell the author did their research because the profiling, investigative details, and atmosphere felt so authentic.
If you love serial killer thrillers that keep you guessing until the very end this one is an absolute must read. I cannot wait to see what comes next in the series.
November 16, 2025
After loving the first book in the Gus Wheeler series, I was so excited to dive into this one…and it did not disappoint!
This time around, Wheeler is pulled into a string of murders in a small New England town, all tied to young women who were last seen at Music Row. The deeper he digs, the more it becomes clear that someone is playing a twisted game.
It’s dark, it’s twisty, and it has that pacing that keeps you glued to the page! A chilling, addictive sequel that totally lives up to the first.
This time around, Wheeler is pulled into a string of murders in a small New England town, all tied to young women who were last seen at Music Row. The deeper he digs, the more it becomes clear that someone is playing a twisted game.
It’s dark, it’s twisty, and it has that pacing that keeps you glued to the page! A chilling, addictive sequel that totally lives up to the first.
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November 11, 2025Wings of Madness is a gripping, fast paced thriller that will keep you on your toes. I absolutely was invested and did not want to put this book down!
FBI Agent Gus Wheeler is back, along with his partner Vanessa, to solve the murders of three women. Gus and Vanessa are in a time crunch; they want to end this killer's spree before more women are abducted and murdered.
Such a good police procedural/investigative series. I genuinely enjoyed the friendship/partnership Gus and Vanessa have throughout the book. It did make me laugh a few times with their banter back and forth, and with the way Vanessa trolls Gus.
The anticipation to find the killer was SO GOOD!
This is part of a series, and I do highly recommend reading both books. Karma Never Sleeps is the first book and does a fantastic job introducing the characters, however, I do think you can read Wings of Madness as a standalone.
I'm absolutely invested in this series, and I will be anxiously waiting for the third book! I cannot wait to see where Gus and Vanessa will end up on their next investigation. Highly recommend this book! I can't say enough good things about it!
FBI Agent Gus Wheeler is back, along with his partner Vanessa, to solve the murders of three women. Gus and Vanessa are in a time crunch; they want to end this killer's spree before more women are abducted and murdered.
Such a good police procedural/investigative series. I genuinely enjoyed the friendship/partnership Gus and Vanessa have throughout the book. It did make me laugh a few times with their banter back and forth, and with the way Vanessa trolls Gus.
The anticipation to find the killer was SO GOOD!
This is part of a series, and I do highly recommend reading both books. Karma Never Sleeps is the first book and does a fantastic job introducing the characters, however, I do think you can read Wings of Madness as a standalone.
I'm absolutely invested in this series, and I will be anxiously waiting for the third book! I cannot wait to see where Gus and Vanessa will end up on their next investigation. Highly recommend this book! I can't say enough good things about it!
November 19, 2025
really enjoyed the second book!
November 29, 2025
Wings of Madness
By: R. John Dingle
Pub date: Nov 12, 2025
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
Author R. John Dingle has created characters in this series that are the perfect duo. His first one Karma Never Sleeps had me hooked on FBI Gus Wheeler and his partner.
This one is set in New Orleans. Several victims have come up dead after going to clubs in Music Row. The perfect cat & mouse game that targets suspects of a band.
Someone is really careful to not have the victims on camera which is hard to do in this world. The action is non stop and kept me engaged throughout the entire story.
I hope the author continues this series. Thank you for sharing with Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE, we love your books.
By: R. John Dingle
Pub date: Nov 12, 2025
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
Author R. John Dingle has created characters in this series that are the perfect duo. His first one Karma Never Sleeps had me hooked on FBI Gus Wheeler and his partner.
This one is set in New Orleans. Several victims have come up dead after going to clubs in Music Row. The perfect cat & mouse game that targets suspects of a band.
Someone is really careful to not have the victims on camera which is hard to do in this world. The action is non stop and kept me engaged throughout the entire story.
I hope the author continues this series. Thank you for sharing with Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE, we love your books.
November 13, 2025
A Gritty, Addictive Thriller That Pulls You Into the Mind of a Monster
This gripping thriller delivers everything fans of crime fiction crave: a chilling mystery, psychological depth, and a relentless pace that refuses to let up. When a third young woman is found murdered on the outskirts of Pawtucket Falls, FBI profiler Gus Wheeler is pulled into a case that is as puzzling as it is disturbing. The victims seem unconnected—until one detail emerges: each was last seen alive inside a club along the city’s infamous Music Row.
What sets this story apart is how seamlessly it blends the gritty energy of the music scene with the escalating dread of a serial-killer hunt. Gus’s intimate knowledge of the world of musicians—rooted in his own haunted past in the New Orleans jazz scene—adds a deeply personal layer to the investigation. When security footage points to a moody bassist Gus once knew as a prodigy, the lines between memory, suspicion, and truth blur in compelling ways.
The tension sharpens when it becomes clear that none of the victims were ever seen exiting the clubs—not with the suspect, not alone. The mystery of how they vanished is as unsettling as why. And just when the agents begin closing in, the killer retaliates, making the case violently personal for Gus and raising the stakes to a breathless level.
With atmospheric settings, complex characters, and twists that land with real force, this novel becomes a cat-and-mouse game where every second counts. The final act—where Gus must match wits with a madman—delivers a nerve-shredding payoff that lingers long after the last page.
A dark, smart, and utterly engrossing read for anyone who loves psychological thrillers and high-octane suspense.
This gripping thriller delivers everything fans of crime fiction crave: a chilling mystery, psychological depth, and a relentless pace that refuses to let up. When a third young woman is found murdered on the outskirts of Pawtucket Falls, FBI profiler Gus Wheeler is pulled into a case that is as puzzling as it is disturbing. The victims seem unconnected—until one detail emerges: each was last seen alive inside a club along the city’s infamous Music Row.
What sets this story apart is how seamlessly it blends the gritty energy of the music scene with the escalating dread of a serial-killer hunt. Gus’s intimate knowledge of the world of musicians—rooted in his own haunted past in the New Orleans jazz scene—adds a deeply personal layer to the investigation. When security footage points to a moody bassist Gus once knew as a prodigy, the lines between memory, suspicion, and truth blur in compelling ways.
The tension sharpens when it becomes clear that none of the victims were ever seen exiting the clubs—not with the suspect, not alone. The mystery of how they vanished is as unsettling as why. And just when the agents begin closing in, the killer retaliates, making the case violently personal for Gus and raising the stakes to a breathless level.
With atmospheric settings, complex characters, and twists that land with real force, this novel becomes a cat-and-mouse game where every second counts. The final act—where Gus must match wits with a madman—delivers a nerve-shredding payoff that lingers long after the last page.
A dark, smart, and utterly engrossing read for anyone who loves psychological thrillers and high-octane suspense.
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