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DCI Logan Crime Thrillers #12
Colder than the Grave
She left him for dead. Now, he's back to repay the favour.
DCI Jack Logan should've known things were going too well. Genuinely happy for the first time in years, Jack has almost fooled himself into believing that the world is a decent place.
But, when the discovery of a mutilated body kicks off a series of grisly murders, Jack's dream of a peaceful life rapidly begins to crumble around him.
With friends in danger, and enemies begging for his help, Jack must risk everything to protect the final would-be victim, and stop the most monstrous killer he's ever faced.
And to do that, sacrifices will have to be made
Colder than the Grave is the 12th novel in the #1 bestselling DCI Jack Logan series set in the Highlands of Scotland. Perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Chris Brookmyre, Ian Rankin, and LJ Ross.
DCI Jack Logan should've known things were going too well. Genuinely happy for the first time in years, Jack has almost fooled himself into believing that the world is a decent place.
But, when the discovery of a mutilated body kicks off a series of grisly murders, Jack's dream of a peaceful life rapidly begins to crumble around him.
With friends in danger, and enemies begging for his help, Jack must risk everything to protect the final would-be victim, and stop the most monstrous killer he's ever faced.
And to do that, sacrifices will have to be made
Colder than the Grave is the 12th novel in the #1 bestselling DCI Jack Logan series set in the Highlands of Scotland. Perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Chris Brookmyre, Ian Rankin, and LJ Ross.
346 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2021
About the author
J.D. Kirk
53 books2,017 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 455 reviews
August 17, 2021
Absolutely brilliant!
Oh my, that was a rollercoaster of a read. This was the best one yet in my opinion. I was holding my breath at some points, then creased up with laughter the next. If you haven't read any of JD Kirks' books yet, you need to start at the beginning with 'A Litter of Bones'. I can say with all honesty you are in for an absolute treat. Thank you Mr. Kirk for brightening up my day but I'm also bereft as I now have to wait until the next instalment, please don't make it too long. Oh, just a wee request, could you keep the newest member of the team in future books? Taggart could turn out to be the star attraction and maybe even make Jack Logan smile 😁. Then again, that might be a step too far! Bravo Mr. Kirk.
Oh my, that was a rollercoaster of a read. This was the best one yet in my opinion. I was holding my breath at some points, then creased up with laughter the next. If you haven't read any of JD Kirks' books yet, you need to start at the beginning with 'A Litter of Bones'. I can say with all honesty you are in for an absolute treat. Thank you Mr. Kirk for brightening up my day but I'm also bereft as I now have to wait until the next instalment, please don't make it too long. Oh, just a wee request, could you keep the newest member of the team in future books? Taggart could turn out to be the star attraction and maybe even make Jack Logan smile 😁. Then again, that might be a step too far! Bravo Mr. Kirk.
August 1, 2024
Once again a well paced crime thriller with huge helpings of sarcasm, Scottish humour and lots of twists. I found this book had slightly darker undertones and sometimes I’d say a really creepy and disturbing which made it all the more a satisfying read.
”We save the ones we can, we avenge the ones we can’t. That’s the job.”
Kirk's writing is clear and straightforward, making it easy to follow and connect with the characters. The dark, atmospheric setting adds depth, and the interactions between the characters bring a touch of humanity.
Speaking of darkness, there’s an uncomfortable section in the story which may upset some readers, it deals with the threat of rape. While it didn't effect my overall enjoyment of the book I didn't feel good reading it and tried to skip over it a bit.
Overall it’s a solid edge of your seat, suspenseful read with believable characters and a well thought out story which is expertly written as always. For fans of crime fiction looking for an absorbing and suspenseful story look no further than this series, you won’t be disappointed..
”We save the ones we can, we avenge the ones we can’t. That’s the job.”
Kirk's writing is clear and straightforward, making it easy to follow and connect with the characters. The dark, atmospheric setting adds depth, and the interactions between the characters bring a touch of humanity.
Speaking of darkness, there’s an uncomfortable section in the story which may upset some readers, it deals with the threat of rape. While it didn't effect my overall enjoyment of the book I didn't feel good reading it and tried to skip over it a bit.
Overall it’s a solid edge of your seat, suspenseful read with believable characters and a well thought out story which is expertly written as always. For fans of crime fiction looking for an absorbing and suspenseful story look no further than this series, you won’t be disappointed..
August 22, 2021
What I love most about this series is the way the author drops little hooks into the previous books to lead you to the plotline for this one. This worked really well for me as I was already on tenterhooks wondering how the situation would resolve itself - brilliantly delivered.
I also really love the team dynamics and camaraderie between them. Over the series I have become increasingly invested in them and Kirk plays on this to great advantage which keeps the reader on their toes throughout. Loved the addition of Taggart to the team (you'll have to read it to find out who I mean) Great to see different sides to some of the personalities that have been more recently introduced to the cast.
This was fast paced, emotional, twisty and full (though not as much as usual) of dark humour. Brillinat read and highly recommended.
I also really love the team dynamics and camaraderie between them. Over the series I have become increasingly invested in them and Kirk plays on this to great advantage which keeps the reader on their toes throughout. Loved the addition of Taggart to the team (you'll have to read it to find out who I mean) Great to see different sides to some of the personalities that have been more recently introduced to the cast.
This was fast paced, emotional, twisty and full (though not as much as usual) of dark humour. Brillinat read and highly recommended.
April 18, 2026
I can feel a huge book slump coming after I finish this series.
The writing is incredible. I can't say enough about this series and its characters.
In this book we find out who the iceman is. He's lingered around a few books.
Three woman are taken in this story. A detective, a pathologist and a former mafia bosses wife.
In return Oleg wants Olivia. The thirteen year old daughter of Bosco. The former mafia boss.
Olivia had locked Oleg in a huge freezer in a previous book for making her deliver drugs.
This caused severe damage to his body and he's out for revenge.
Jack Logan and his team only have hours to find these women or they all die.
An abandoned dog also comes onto the scene who plays on Jacks sympathies although he'd never admit it.
The writing is incredible. I can't say enough about this series and its characters.
In this book we find out who the iceman is. He's lingered around a few books.
Three woman are taken in this story. A detective, a pathologist and a former mafia bosses wife.
In return Oleg wants Olivia. The thirteen year old daughter of Bosco. The former mafia boss.
Olivia had locked Oleg in a huge freezer in a previous book for making her deliver drugs.
This caused severe damage to his body and he's out for revenge.
Jack Logan and his team only have hours to find these women or they all die.
An abandoned dog also comes onto the scene who plays on Jacks sympathies although he'd never admit it.
July 17, 2023
The most personal one yet.
DCI Logan is front and centre in the instalment that ties up many of the threads that have been running through this series. The Iceman mystery is finally (I presume) solved and all those involved are revealed.
True to his writing style for Logan, the read is underscored by black humour, ear-bending language, self-deprecation and snort out loud laughs.
Brilliant!
DCI Logan is front and centre in the instalment that ties up many of the threads that have been running through this series. The Iceman mystery is finally (I presume) solved and all those involved are revealed.
True to his writing style for Logan, the read is underscored by black humour, ear-bending language, self-deprecation and snort out loud laughs.
Brilliant!
October 8, 2021
Now my life has a DCI Jack Logan shaped hole in it. I've just read the last of his crime thrillers, at least to date. And I was up until past midnight finishing this one.
"Colder Than The Grave" ties up a lot of loose ends from previous books, and does so with a very surprising ending. There's plenty of thrills along the way, and there's lots of laugh-out-loud moments of course too (many at DC Tyler Neish's expense).
Fans of the old TV series Taggart will be surprised to find his name coming up here - this time though as a dog. And a dog with more of a sense of humour than the original detective had too. Look out for him.
J.D.Kirk is one extraordinary writer. I know he has a Hoon book out this month, and I believe he's writing another two in that series. Great. BUT PLEASE CAN WE HAVE MORE JACK LOGAN?
"Colder Than The Grave" ties up a lot of loose ends from previous books, and does so with a very surprising ending. There's plenty of thrills along the way, and there's lots of laugh-out-loud moments of course too (many at DC Tyler Neish's expense).
Fans of the old TV series Taggart will be surprised to find his name coming up here - this time though as a dog. And a dog with more of a sense of humour than the original detective had too. Look out for him.
J.D.Kirk is one extraordinary writer. I know he has a Hoon book out this month, and I believe he's writing another two in that series. Great. BUT PLEASE CAN WE HAVE MORE JACK LOGAN?
August 29, 2021
Well he's done it again!! After 12 books you might be mistaken for thinking there is no more story to tell in the DCI Logan series... well you would be dead wrong!
I loved this book from start to finish there were zingers that made me laugh and there were parts that made me cringe for the characters (no spoilers go read it). I love the team and Jack Logan was at his very best again.
The only other thing I can say is that while this book was excellent it is not a standalone you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't start at the start so go on back to number 1 if you haven't read it already and start from the start TRUST ME you won't be disappointed.
Thank you J.D Kirk for another amazing read, now please release the next one (there better be a next one :)
I loved this book from start to finish there were zingers that made me laugh and there were parts that made me cringe for the characters (no spoilers go read it). I love the team and Jack Logan was at his very best again.
The only other thing I can say is that while this book was excellent it is not a standalone you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't start at the start so go on back to number 1 if you haven't read it already and start from the start TRUST ME you won't be disappointed.
Thank you J.D Kirk for another amazing read, now please release the next one (there better be a next one :)
January 25, 2023
Bookish Books Reading Challenge
August 19, 2021
Colder Than the Grave by J D KIrk
Colder Than The Grave by J D Kirk is the latest in the DCI Logan series and it has all the usual characters and suspects making an appearance. The series just gets better and better.
Highly recommended
Colder Than The Grave by J D Kirk is the latest in the DCI Logan series and it has all the usual characters and suspects making an appearance. The series just gets better and better.
Highly recommended
May 25, 2025
I have to give this one a high rating, as I read it quicker than any of the previous 11 in the series. And WHAT a shocker ending!!!! OMG. Did not see that one coming!
Onto Book 13...
4.8 🌟
Onto Book 13...
4.8 🌟
August 22, 2021
Colder Than the Grave is the 12th book in the DCI Logan series and the best so far, absolutely brilliant. The Iceman is back and he's here to settle old scores.
Tony Hicks hates work days as work days means kids and kids mean noise and trouble. Then there's the teachers 'could you fix the farty smell in the science corridor' or 'the boilers on the blink' without so much as 'thank you Tony' or 'good job Tony' they were worse than the kids as they looked down their snooty noses at him.
As the janitor of Millburn Academy Tony was parking his motorbike up when his eye is drawn to the far end of the car park. He sees a black SUV parked or more to the point abandoned across two spaces, he knows he's not taking the blame for this. He approaches the vehicle and sees there's someone in it with the engine running, on closer inspection he sees the guy is handcuffed to the steering wheel and there's a bag of white powder on the dash blowing through the air vents and congealed in the man's nose and lips. He looks and the eyes of the dead man are yellow, looking straight ahead at nothing at all. He also notices a dirty grey bandage covering a stump on the dead man's left arm. How did Boris Wozniak end up dead in this school parking lot and why?
Olivia Maximuke is a worried 13 year old schoolgirl as Boris her mother's boyfriend was forcing her to sell drugs to her schoolmates. She also locked the Iceman in a freezer and left him to die along with another body. When the freezer is opened though there's only one body and it's not the Iceman. She knows he'll be out to get her now. Olivia's father Bosco was a drug dealer and and crime lord who was currently serving time at her majesty's pleasure in Grampian prison.
When Dr. Shona Maguire was doing the post mortem on Boris she found something odd between his toes. Someone had put a microchip for a dog inside his foot, weird, why would anyone do that? When she checks with the vet it's registered to an address in the City.
When Logan and his DS Hamza Khaled arrive at the property on Ballifeary Rd and knock there's no answer. Hamza takes a look through the window and sees someone lying on the floor, they rapidly gain entry and check on the man. Conrad Howden appears to be dead and he's had a severe beating. While Hamza calls it in Logan thinks he's heard a noise and he looks through the rest of the house. He opens the door to a room where a little dog bounds out but is a bit scared of the giant policeman. When Logan goes into the room he finds an old woman who's soiled herself she's also been smothered. Hamza rushes to tell his boss that Conrad has a pulse and he's taken to Raigmore Hospital where his condition is critical and the doctors fear he won't make it.
Shona Maguire had began a friendship with Olivia when she was dealing with another victim of the Iceman and had become quite fond of the child. One night Olivia turns up at Shona's in a very agitated state and she says she's being followed. She's standing at the window and then stepping back into the dark as any car goes by. Shona tries to reassure her she's safe but a car pulls into the drive and several men with skinheads are walking to the door. Shona rushes to lock the door but in her panic she can't manage to do so and the door is forced open. Olivia has bolted out the back door and Shona is abducted.
With Shona having been abducted retired but still part time pathologist Albert Rickett had been called to do the post mortem on Maggie Howden and as expected cause of death was asphyxiation by smothering.
With Olivia now in the wind DC Sinead Bell had been sent to the home of Alexis Maximuke to try and find the girl. When she arrives there's no answer and she tries to gain access the front door is open, she enters and then nothing.
When the team meet up at the station to see what they've got so far, Sinead's not there, she's got to be found and Hamza has been sent to the Maximuke home. He arrives and finds there's been an altercation in the kitchen there's blood everywhere but no sign of Sinead or the Maximuke's.
When a video arrives at the police station of Sinead tied to a bed DC Tyler Neish her husband and part of the team is distraught. This means that the Iceman has both Shona, Sinead and possibly Alexis Maximuke too. The message is simple give up Olivia for what she did to the Iceman or the women will die, they've been given till midnight.
Who killed Boris? How does the beating of Conrad Howden and the death of his mother tie in? Will Jack save Shona the woman he loves and the other women? Just who is the Iceman? You'll have to read the book to find out.
Tony Hicks hates work days as work days means kids and kids mean noise and trouble. Then there's the teachers 'could you fix the farty smell in the science corridor' or 'the boilers on the blink' without so much as 'thank you Tony' or 'good job Tony' they were worse than the kids as they looked down their snooty noses at him.
As the janitor of Millburn Academy Tony was parking his motorbike up when his eye is drawn to the far end of the car park. He sees a black SUV parked or more to the point abandoned across two spaces, he knows he's not taking the blame for this. He approaches the vehicle and sees there's someone in it with the engine running, on closer inspection he sees the guy is handcuffed to the steering wheel and there's a bag of white powder on the dash blowing through the air vents and congealed in the man's nose and lips. He looks and the eyes of the dead man are yellow, looking straight ahead at nothing at all. He also notices a dirty grey bandage covering a stump on the dead man's left arm. How did Boris Wozniak end up dead in this school parking lot and why?
Olivia Maximuke is a worried 13 year old schoolgirl as Boris her mother's boyfriend was forcing her to sell drugs to her schoolmates. She also locked the Iceman in a freezer and left him to die along with another body. When the freezer is opened though there's only one body and it's not the Iceman. She knows he'll be out to get her now. Olivia's father Bosco was a drug dealer and and crime lord who was currently serving time at her majesty's pleasure in Grampian prison.
When Dr. Shona Maguire was doing the post mortem on Boris she found something odd between his toes. Someone had put a microchip for a dog inside his foot, weird, why would anyone do that? When she checks with the vet it's registered to an address in the City.
When Logan and his DS Hamza Khaled arrive at the property on Ballifeary Rd and knock there's no answer. Hamza takes a look through the window and sees someone lying on the floor, they rapidly gain entry and check on the man. Conrad Howden appears to be dead and he's had a severe beating. While Hamza calls it in Logan thinks he's heard a noise and he looks through the rest of the house. He opens the door to a room where a little dog bounds out but is a bit scared of the giant policeman. When Logan goes into the room he finds an old woman who's soiled herself she's also been smothered. Hamza rushes to tell his boss that Conrad has a pulse and he's taken to Raigmore Hospital where his condition is critical and the doctors fear he won't make it.
Shona Maguire had began a friendship with Olivia when she was dealing with another victim of the Iceman and had become quite fond of the child. One night Olivia turns up at Shona's in a very agitated state and she says she's being followed. She's standing at the window and then stepping back into the dark as any car goes by. Shona tries to reassure her she's safe but a car pulls into the drive and several men with skinheads are walking to the door. Shona rushes to lock the door but in her panic she can't manage to do so and the door is forced open. Olivia has bolted out the back door and Shona is abducted.
With Shona having been abducted retired but still part time pathologist Albert Rickett had been called to do the post mortem on Maggie Howden and as expected cause of death was asphyxiation by smothering.
With Olivia now in the wind DC Sinead Bell had been sent to the home of Alexis Maximuke to try and find the girl. When she arrives there's no answer and she tries to gain access the front door is open, she enters and then nothing.
When the team meet up at the station to see what they've got so far, Sinead's not there, she's got to be found and Hamza has been sent to the Maximuke home. He arrives and finds there's been an altercation in the kitchen there's blood everywhere but no sign of Sinead or the Maximuke's.
When a video arrives at the police station of Sinead tied to a bed DC Tyler Neish her husband and part of the team is distraught. This means that the Iceman has both Shona, Sinead and possibly Alexis Maximuke too. The message is simple give up Olivia for what she did to the Iceman or the women will die, they've been given till midnight.
Who killed Boris? How does the beating of Conrad Howden and the death of his mother tie in? Will Jack save Shona the woman he loves and the other women? Just who is the Iceman? You'll have to read the book to find out.
August 21, 2021
According to GoodReads Stats, I have read 101 books so far this year. I enjoyed this one the most.
Author J.D. Kirk writes tight, taut police procedurals with a large ensemble cast. The character development is nothing short of extraordinary. You think you get to know these people, and then they do something new that reveals a whole different side of their personality, yet it all feels very 'true' to what you know of their characters.
This book introduced one absolutely fantastic new character, a dog (or, in the vernacular of the stories, 'a dug,') and the ensuing interactions were absolutely hilarious.
In fact, this book should come with a "laugh out loud" warning, second only to the "gasp of surprise" warning and the "you've got something in your eye" warning. It didn't matter -- I read it in public places, anyway, because I couldn't bear to put it down.
Can't wait for the next one!
Author J.D. Kirk writes tight, taut police procedurals with a large ensemble cast. The character development is nothing short of extraordinary. You think you get to know these people, and then they do something new that reveals a whole different side of their personality, yet it all feels very 'true' to what you know of their characters.
This book introduced one absolutely fantastic new character, a dog (or, in the vernacular of the stories, 'a dug,') and the ensuing interactions were absolutely hilarious.
In fact, this book should come with a "laugh out loud" warning, second only to the "gasp of surprise" warning and the "you've got something in your eye" warning. It didn't matter -- I read it in public places, anyway, because I couldn't bear to put it down.
Can't wait for the next one!
June 11, 2022
That was.... Actually, it was brutal. There's no other word for it. I'm going to get in to the next book right away. I'm worried about a couple of the team. How they're going to be. I need to know if they work through the trauma. If they stay on the team.
September 30, 2022
An excellent read in a great series! This is the sixteenth volume from J.D. Kirk that I have read in the last few months. I have enjoyed all that I have now read to date, the first 12 in the DCI Logan series and also the first 3 in the Robert Hoon series, as well as stand alone VIP exclusive short story. I picked the first for a few reasons, but mainly because authors Alex Smith and JE Mayhew have both recommended the author and series. I am a big fan of Smith’s DCI Kett novels and Mayhew’s DCI Will Blake Series. I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under various names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He is coming up on 175 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Fortunately I only have 3 left to be caught up to those published under this pen name. For now I will try and read the remaining books published as Kirk.
The description of this novel is:
“She left him for dead. Now, he’s back to repay the favour.
DCI Jack Logan should’ve known things were going too well. Genuinely happy for the first time in years, Jack has almost fooled himself into believing that the world is a decent place.
But, when the discovery of a mutilated body kicks off a series of grisly murders, Jack’s dream of a peaceful life rapidly begins to crumble around him.
With friends in danger, and enemies begging for his help, Jack must risk everything to protect the final would-be victim, and stop the most monstrous killer he’s ever faced.
And to do that, sacrifices will have to be made…
Colder than the Grave is the 12th novel in the #1 bestselling DCI Jack Logan series set in the Highlands of Scotland. Perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Chris Brookmyre, Ian Rankin, and LJ Ross.”
In these stories often the murders are gruesome. The humour is dark. And the Scottish temperament comes out from several different characters. This case is no different, in some almost all ways it is worse, for this time it is personal. This story ties up several story arc’s that have been woven in and out of the last few novels in the series. Two people important to the team fall into the hands of the evil villain in this one. And It might be the worst character they have faced yet. Logan is given a time line, 3 hours to decide to exchange two for one. Something is niggling in Logan’s brain and when he slips a note to the Detective Superintendent Mitchell to be investigated the pieces have fallen in place. But figuring out the who does not mean he can save the two that have been taken. Hamza seems to be turning a corner. DC Neish comes back from medical leave and even still hurting this case is too important for him to stay home. We get to see a lot more of Detective Superintendent Mitchell, and how she works, and works the team. And when she is interrogating or should I say intimidating Mrs Alexis Maximuke to get the information they need. Just Wow!
“Alexis narrowed her eyes. “You’re a nasty bitch.”
“Yes. So I’ve been told,” Mitchell replied. She flipped open the folder in front of her. “Now, shall we begin?””
This is another great read in an excellent series. The two series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk are definitely Scottish Mysteries, and I can see the comparisons with Smith’s and Mayhew’s works, as well as several other more mainstream names. Each time I finish a book by Kirk it takes willpower not to just pick up the next one and keep going. I have read nearly all the DCI Logan books and three of the 4 planned for the Robert Hoon Series as well. And Kirk has now hinted at a new series once the Hood quadrilogy wraps up. I know I will be reading all the books published buy this author under this name, and I am looking forward to that new series. Once I read the remaining 3 DCI Logan books to get caught up, I will be branching out into his other works. I love that the stories are set in Scotland! This book and series would be great reads for fans of Jack Reacher, DCI Kett or DCI Will Blake. I state it again it is a great read in an excellent series!
The description of this novel is:
“She left him for dead. Now, he’s back to repay the favour.
DCI Jack Logan should’ve known things were going too well. Genuinely happy for the first time in years, Jack has almost fooled himself into believing that the world is a decent place.
But, when the discovery of a mutilated body kicks off a series of grisly murders, Jack’s dream of a peaceful life rapidly begins to crumble around him.
With friends in danger, and enemies begging for his help, Jack must risk everything to protect the final would-be victim, and stop the most monstrous killer he’s ever faced.
And to do that, sacrifices will have to be made…
Colder than the Grave is the 12th novel in the #1 bestselling DCI Jack Logan series set in the Highlands of Scotland. Perfect for fans of Stuart Macbride, Chris Brookmyre, Ian Rankin, and LJ Ross.”
In these stories often the murders are gruesome. The humour is dark. And the Scottish temperament comes out from several different characters. This case is no different, in some almost all ways it is worse, for this time it is personal. This story ties up several story arc’s that have been woven in and out of the last few novels in the series. Two people important to the team fall into the hands of the evil villain in this one. And It might be the worst character they have faced yet. Logan is given a time line, 3 hours to decide to exchange two for one. Something is niggling in Logan’s brain and when he slips a note to the Detective Superintendent Mitchell to be investigated the pieces have fallen in place. But figuring out the who does not mean he can save the two that have been taken. Hamza seems to be turning a corner. DC Neish comes back from medical leave and even still hurting this case is too important for him to stay home. We get to see a lot more of Detective Superintendent Mitchell, and how she works, and works the team. And when she is interrogating or should I say intimidating Mrs Alexis Maximuke to get the information they need. Just Wow!
“Alexis narrowed her eyes. “You’re a nasty bitch.”
“Yes. So I’ve been told,” Mitchell replied. She flipped open the folder in front of her. “Now, shall we begin?””
This is another great read in an excellent series. The two series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk are definitely Scottish Mysteries, and I can see the comparisons with Smith’s and Mayhew’s works, as well as several other more mainstream names. Each time I finish a book by Kirk it takes willpower not to just pick up the next one and keep going. I have read nearly all the DCI Logan books and three of the 4 planned for the Robert Hoon Series as well. And Kirk has now hinted at a new series once the Hood quadrilogy wraps up. I know I will be reading all the books published buy this author under this name, and I am looking forward to that new series. Once I read the remaining 3 DCI Logan books to get caught up, I will be branching out into his other works. I love that the stories are set in Scotland! This book and series would be great reads for fans of Jack Reacher, DCI Kett or DCI Will Blake. I state it again it is a great read in an excellent series!
August 23, 2021
Even better
How have we endured the wait for this latest DOC Logan book? But the wait was well worth the wait. This was, surely, the best of an excellent series. As usual, great humour together with gripping dangerous scenes keeps you enthralled, and wondering how to put the book down. All good things come to an end, but let's hope Jack Logan doesn't any time soon! When do we get Book 13?
How have we endured the wait for this latest DOC Logan book? But the wait was well worth the wait. This was, surely, the best of an excellent series. As usual, great humour together with gripping dangerous scenes keeps you enthralled, and wondering how to put the book down. All good things come to an end, but let's hope Jack Logan doesn't any time soon! When do we get Book 13?
April 2, 2025
[EN]
Me compré el libro en Londres porque formaba parte de las típicas ofertas que hay y me salía superbarato, pero la verdad es que no sabía muy bien de qué trataba la trama hasta después de comprarlo, cuando vi que era un libro de una saga que se centra en los crímenes que resuelve el agente de policía/detective Jack Logan.
Este libro es el 12° de la saga, y claro, no me he leído ninguno de los anteriores porque no sabía cuando lo compré que había más libros (de todas formas, dentro de la oferta no había muchas más opciones). Es cierto que lo he podido leer sin problemas porque no es que haya una línea temporal que tengas que saberte sí o sí, pero sí que he visto bastantes referencias a crímenes anteriores que me hubiera gustado haber leído antes para enterarme mejor.
Una cosa que me ha descolocado bastante, y ha sido también la razón por la que le he quitado algo de nota al libro, es que hay MIL nombres de policías. Pero literalmente mil nombres, y al final te acabas rayando. Puede ser que en alguno de los libros anteriores presentaran mejor a los protagonistas, pero habiendo yo leído solo este, y encima en inglés, me he hecho un lío que vamos. No es todo lo malo, al menos cada vez que sale un nombre te dice “detective inspector”, “patólogo”… o sea que más o menos puedes acordarte. Pero eso, yo creo que esta es otra razón por la que sería mejor leer los libros en orden, aunque no sea completamente necesario para entender la historia.
Sin contar mucho más voy a decir que me ha ENCANTADO la forma de escribir del autor. Para ser un libro escrito en un inglés (escocés) no tan sencillo como el de otros autores, me ha tenido bastante atrapado. Los capítulos son cortos y, aunque hay alguno de relleno, tienen partes superinteresantes. Con todo esto estoy refiriéndome a los capítulos de apartir de la mitad del libro, porque el comienzo del libro es LENTO Y LENTO Y LENTO. Es por eso por lo que he tardado tanto en leerlo, porque literalmente desde que han empezado a sucederse acontecimientos interesantes (uno tras otro), no he parado de leer y me he acabado lo que quedaba en 3-4 días. También es cierto que antes no tenía una motivación para acabarlo, y ahora sí (leer los juegos del hambre).
Pero bueno, ya para terminar, después de esta EXTENSA review, me gustaría concluir con que el escritor consigue atraparte en la historia, la cual tiene acontecimientos sorprendentes y giros inesperados y, quitando lo del tema del comienzo, con todos los nombres de policías y tal, es un muy buen libro, especialmente si te gustan las sagas policíacas (eso sí, si puedes leerla en orden, mejor).
Me compré el libro en Londres porque formaba parte de las típicas ofertas que hay y me salía superbarato, pero la verdad es que no sabía muy bien de qué trataba la trama hasta después de comprarlo, cuando vi que era un libro de una saga que se centra en los crímenes que resuelve el agente de policía/detective Jack Logan.
Este libro es el 12° de la saga, y claro, no me he leído ninguno de los anteriores porque no sabía cuando lo compré que había más libros (de todas formas, dentro de la oferta no había muchas más opciones). Es cierto que lo he podido leer sin problemas porque no es que haya una línea temporal que tengas que saberte sí o sí, pero sí que he visto bastantes referencias a crímenes anteriores que me hubiera gustado haber leído antes para enterarme mejor.
Una cosa que me ha descolocado bastante, y ha sido también la razón por la que le he quitado algo de nota al libro, es que hay MIL nombres de policías. Pero literalmente mil nombres, y al final te acabas rayando. Puede ser que en alguno de los libros anteriores presentaran mejor a los protagonistas, pero habiendo yo leído solo este, y encima en inglés, me he hecho un lío que vamos. No es todo lo malo, al menos cada vez que sale un nombre te dice “detective inspector”, “patólogo”… o sea que más o menos puedes acordarte. Pero eso, yo creo que esta es otra razón por la que sería mejor leer los libros en orden, aunque no sea completamente necesario para entender la historia.
Sin contar mucho más voy a decir que me ha ENCANTADO la forma de escribir del autor. Para ser un libro escrito en un inglés (escocés) no tan sencillo como el de otros autores, me ha tenido bastante atrapado. Los capítulos son cortos y, aunque hay alguno de relleno, tienen partes superinteresantes. Con todo esto estoy refiriéndome a los capítulos de apartir de la mitad del libro, porque el comienzo del libro es LENTO Y LENTO Y LENTO. Es por eso por lo que he tardado tanto en leerlo, porque literalmente desde que han empezado a sucederse acontecimientos interesantes (uno tras otro), no he parado de leer y me he acabado lo que quedaba en 3-4 días. También es cierto que antes no tenía una motivación para acabarlo, y ahora sí (leer los juegos del hambre).
Pero bueno, ya para terminar, después de esta EXTENSA review, me gustaría concluir con que el escritor consigue atraparte en la historia, la cual tiene acontecimientos sorprendentes y giros inesperados y, quitando lo del tema del comienzo, con todos los nombres de policías y tal, es un muy buen libro, especialmente si te gustan las sagas policíacas (eso sí, si puedes leerla en orden, mejor).
October 5, 2022
Colder Than The Grave is book 12 in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers by J. D. Kirk. DCI Jack Logan thought he finally found happiness, but he was wrong. DCI Jack Logan realised someone from his past had come to visit and turned his life upside down when a mutilated body turned up. The readers of Colder Than The Grave will continue to follow DCI Jack Logan and his team to discover what happens.
Colder Than The Grave is a fantastic addition to this excellent series by J. D. Kirk. I have not failed yet to engage with the plots of books in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers, and Colder Than The Grave continued the tradition. At times I had to laugh with the characters of this book. I love J. D. Kirk's portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. Colder Than The Grave was well written and researched by J. D. Kirk. I like J. D. Kirk's description of Colder Than The Grave settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Colder Than The Grave will learn the meaning of the Gaelic words Aye and Dug. Also, the readers of Colder Than The Grave will understand the pathologist's role in law enforcement investigations.
I recommend this book.
Colder Than The Grave is a fantastic addition to this excellent series by J. D. Kirk. I have not failed yet to engage with the plots of books in the DCI Logan Crime Thrillers, and Colder Than The Grave continued the tradition. At times I had to laugh with the characters of this book. I love J. D. Kirk's portrayal of the characters and their interaction with each other throughout this book. Colder Than The Grave was well written and researched by J. D. Kirk. I like J. D. Kirk's description of Colder Than The Grave settings, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of Colder Than The Grave will learn the meaning of the Gaelic words Aye and Dug. Also, the readers of Colder Than The Grave will understand the pathologist's role in law enforcement investigations.
I recommend this book.
August 20, 2021
I laughed. I gasped. I was tense. Great read.
I love this series as a whole. The characters are well written and they develop between books sufficiently that you always see progression but don't miss out on anything significant. The plots are always strong and hook my interest and I equal parts laugh and gasp throughout.
I loved the tension in this book. The real peril and threat to loved team members. I was on the edge of my seat one moment and laughing the next and then back to reading so fast I thought I would burn holes through the pages.
I'm glad the Olivia Maximuke storyline was finally birthed. It had been crowning for a few books and building tension slowly but surely.
Another great read in this series. They can't come fast enough for me. Definitely give this series a go.
I love this series as a whole. The characters are well written and they develop between books sufficiently that you always see progression but don't miss out on anything significant. The plots are always strong and hook my interest and I equal parts laugh and gasp throughout.
I loved the tension in this book. The real peril and threat to loved team members. I was on the edge of my seat one moment and laughing the next and then back to reading so fast I thought I would burn holes through the pages.
I'm glad the Olivia Maximuke storyline was finally birthed. It had been crowning for a few books and building tension slowly but surely.
Another great read in this series. They can't come fast enough for me. Definitely give this series a go.
June 22, 2025
A high energy and high stakes wrap-up for the 2nd story arc of this series! I was genuinely surprised at the direction that the Oleg and Iceman storylines ended up going in, and was kicking myself for not figuring it out beforehand. I do have one nitpicky, but in my opinion reasonable complaint:
I'm looking forward to seeing to see where things will go from here, and really really hope that we'll get to see more of Olivia in the future. It was awesome to see Bosco again even if only briefly. I absolutely cannot stand Alexis though, but I guess they can't all be winners.
I'm looking forward to seeing to see where things will go from here, and really really hope that we'll get to see more of Olivia in the future. It was awesome to see Bosco again even if only briefly. I absolutely cannot stand Alexis though, but I guess they can't all be winners.
August 20, 2021
I have got to the point of grinding my teeth whenever I read of someone connected to the investigation being targeted by the villain(s) and this book has that in spades BUT there is a neat little twist which means I will forgive the author on this occasion, especially as just for once, it really does draw the rest of the story together .
The trademark humour and banter are still part of the framework of this book although there are times where the team drop it because of the situation they find themselves in.
There are many things which we thought had been resolved in previous books only to find that we had been led up the garden path. Are things any different this time?
I was looking forward to the publication of this book and an so pleased to have finally been able to read it.
The trademark humour and banter are still part of the framework of this book although there are times where the team drop it because of the situation they find themselves in.
There are many things which we thought had been resolved in previous books only to find that we had been led up the garden path. Are things any different this time?
I was looking forward to the publication of this book and an so pleased to have finally been able to read it.
August 29, 2021
Pure dead brilliant.
Superb, simply superb. Threads from previous stories unravel in this one and all comes to a satisfying conclusion. Three of the folk we have come to know are put in deadly peril and the entire book is a nail biting thriller. From past books we know beloved members can die so there is no guarantee of a happy ending as in some other detective series. Blood, passion, retribution....oh, and there is a lovable dug. What more do you want? The series to continue? Right there with you! Well done J D.
Superb, simply superb. Threads from previous stories unravel in this one and all comes to a satisfying conclusion. Three of the folk we have come to know are put in deadly peril and the entire book is a nail biting thriller. From past books we know beloved members can die so there is no guarantee of a happy ending as in some other detective series. Blood, passion, retribution....oh, and there is a lovable dug. What more do you want? The series to continue? Right there with you! Well done J D.
October 28, 2026
OH MY GOD.
WHAT A BOOK!!!
honestly must be my favourite book ever!! Incredibly gripping and had no idea who it was until towards the end, then I kind of knew and I was right but so well written and just an incredible book!!!
WHAT A BOOK!!!
honestly must be my favourite book ever!! Incredibly gripping and had no idea who it was until towards the end, then I kind of knew and I was right but so well written and just an incredible book!!!
August 24, 2021
Really enjoyed the book. Couldn't put it down. Looking forward to the next one.
August 29, 2021
Great series
I’ve absolutely loved this series from the very first book , always a great storyline, good banter between the characters, drama, action,mystery, suspense absolutely everything you want in a great book can’t wait for more
I’ve absolutely loved this series from the very first book , always a great storyline, good banter between the characters, drama, action,mystery, suspense absolutely everything you want in a great book can’t wait for more
November 26, 2021
Really good book. Have read all his other Jack Logan. This author has a really good sense of humour and although it is a crime novel it has it's lighter moments which even make you laugh out loud.
October 26, 2023
Another amazing read from JD
March 18, 2024
Another Belter!
August 27, 2024
Absolutely love this series... this one was no different.
June 23, 2025
best yet
January 24, 2026
Audio version of this book 📕- Wow cracking listen and LOVE the new addition to the team !!!
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