Cross Checking: A Parker Hanson mystery

by Dennis Pierce

"Highly recommended." —John Johnson, Team Golfwell

A search for hidden treasure linked to a decades-old crime. A race against time to stop a fanatical church leader’s murderous plot. A well-educated mob boss who stands in the way of one of these goals—and could be the key to achieving the other.

In CROSS CHECKING, book 2 of the Parker Hanson mystery series, former journalist turned private investigator Parker Hanson and Amalia Velasquez, his ex-Army Ranger neighbor, are back with not one but two major mysteries to solve.

When they aren’t trying to stop what they fear might be a large-scale assault, Parker and Amalia find themselves looking for a stolen painting that could help solve a 35-year-old crime.

Juggling two critical cases with far-reaching implications will require Parker and Amalia to summon every ounce of skill and resolve they possess. And when Parker is faced with a moral dilemma that could determine the fate of hundreds of people, how will he respond?

Featuring humor, pulse-pounding suspense, and plenty of hockey and pop culture references, this crime thriller set in New Hampshire from veteran journalist Dennis Pierce will keep readers engrossed until the very last page. If you’re a fan of Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series or relatable, underdog heroes in general, you won’t want to miss this book.

“Parker is an engaging character, one to root for.” —Kirkus Reviews

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2025

About the author

Dennis Pierce is a freelance writer, author, and journalist. A graduate of Yale University, he began his professional career as an education journalist with eSchool Media, working his way from assistant editor to managing editor and editor-in-chief. In his last few years with the company, he served as director of content partnerships, working with advertisers to develop and execute content marketing campaigns. He has covered congressional hearings on Capitol Hill, interviewed former astronauts and Secretaries of Education, and ghostwritten thought leadership articles for company CEOs. His work has appeared in national publications such as Library Journal, School Library Journal, and the Community College Journal. "Swinging for Power" is his first novel.

Reviews

[John Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first page, I was hooked. Parker Hanson, a former journalist turned private investigator, is a sharp, witty, and deeply human protagonist. The story blends two gripping mysteries — a decades-old treasure and a present-day corruption — with strong pacing and emotional depth, and in my view, I liked the way the author crafted this.

I loved the vivid New England setting, the natural humor, and the partnership between Parker and his tough, intelligent neighbour Amalia Velasquez. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the excellent writing has just the right balance of tension and reflection.

I felt that Cross-checking is clever, fast-moving, and grounded in real emotion. It’s a refreshing, character-driven mystery done by an exceptionally intelligent author.  Highly recommended.


It was my pleasure to receive an advance copy of this book, and that does not in any way affect my opinion of this extraordinary and entertaining book.

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun, enjoyable read. I always enjoy a good mystery that keeps me engrossed in the story, trying to figure out what the answer is along with the protagonists makes for a fun read. With two cases intertwined in this story there was plenty to keep the reader engaged.

One thing that stood out in this book and set it apart in a good way from many mysteries was the subtle humor that is scattered throughout the story. There might be some things that I missed because I wasn’t clued in to a subtle reference, but I caught some that I suspect others might not pick up on. For example, if you aren’t enough of a music nerd to recognize the name Charlie Sexton, you won’t giggle like I did at one reference. But you ought to still enjoy the mystery.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **

[Ganesh Subramanian · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book centres on Parker Hanson, a private investigator drawn into two very different cases. One follows a stolen artwork from the past. The other involves a possible violent act connected to a church group. The story mixes a treasure hunt with a modern crime plot. At times, the shift between the two feels sudden. Still, the pacing stays quick and keeps the story moving. The main characters work well together and share a believable friendship. The dialogue includes humour and sharp observations. Some scenes slow down due to detailed descriptions that feel unnecessary. However, the moral questions raised are important to consider and encourage reflection. The plot offers several twists and surprises, maintaining steady tension. While the tone is not always consistent, the book remains engaging. It should appeal to readers who enjoy character-led crime stories with layered themes.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Mr. Pierce's that I have read, but it won't be the last. I love the characters of Parker and Amalia. They have a connection that is engaging. Now don't get the idea there's a romantic twist here, because there isn't. Just two great friends and partners solving the latest crimes on their docket. There is plenty of action, suspense, unexpected revelations, and a good dose of sarcastic humor, my favorite kind. I was engaged with this story from the very beginning and couldn't wait to get back to it when I had to put it down. I highly recommend it for crime fans of all types. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.

[Trevor Loomis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Dennis Pierce has written an outstanding follow-up to his first book , SWINGING FOR POWER. In CROSS CHECKING, he weaves seamlessly between two mysteries, either of which would've made for a great story on its own. It is very well written and, even with the introduction of many characters and different subplots, is never confusing to the reader. The stories flow very nicely, ending with two satisfying payoffs. I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the Parker Hanson Mystery series.

[Sree · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cross checking is the second book of the parker Hanson mystery series by @denniswpierce . The story is a quick short read with a good pace and healthy speed.

There are less twists because the plot is mostly focussed on decoding during the initial stages and averting the attack in the later. The author focussed mostly on those areas and makes us prepared for it through his writing which makes it such a quick read without losing focus by maintaining peace throughout.

Positives: good writing, good mystery in terms of codes

Negatives: no major villain or any surprising reveals

[Nic · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I got this as an ARC. All thoughts are my own.

Cross Checking drops private investigator Parker Hanson into two separate investigations: a stolen painting connected to a decades-old crime (very National Treasure + Nic Cage) and a looming act of violence tied to a radical church leader.

What really pulled me in was the treasure-hunt vibe; give me a clue to crack, and I’m there. But then suddenly it jumped into a full-on terror plot, which totally came out of nowhere but did work to keep the fast-paced mystery going.

Con: The food descriptions were almost too vivid for me and sometimes pulled focus and felt out of touch with the rest of the book's tone.

Pro: The moral dilemmas presented in the story were interwoven well and really made me think.

The ending was solid and most loose ends tied up nicely, with just enough of a tease that there’s more coming.

[Gisela Marengo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cross Checking is a fast paced, witty mystery that blends sharp detective work with humor, danger, and a strong character .Following private investigator Parker Hanson and his tough, no nonsense partner Amalia Velasquez, the story catches you from the beginning. Love the plot I just kept guessing and what u mean she is gone , she is missing nope I need book 3 .

This was giving to me as an ARC here is my honest and voluntarily review.

[Evan Tory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved your book! The story was engaging, the characters felt real, and your writing kept me hooked from start to finish.