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PsyCop #15
Living Dead
Is it a haunting, a hallucination—or just a really drafty closet?
Victor Bayne is no stranger to ghosts, but the "dead lady in the bedroom" is really testing his limits. He’s stuck investigating a claim from an ex-tenant who’s a few sandwiches short of a picnic, but the building’s history is squeaky clean. Even Vic’s sixth sense is drawing a blank...mostly. Of course, it’s the “mostly” that keeps him from walking away.
Good thing Vic has backup. His husband Jacob is riding shotgun on the investigation, all cool competence. And visiting researcher Dr. Evelyn Hall joins in with her SPECs—cutting-edge gear that can crank Vic’s mediumship up to 11.
It should be the perfect team—a rock‑solid Stiff, a brilliant empath, and a medium who’s seen it all. Except Jacob keeps skipping out on all the grunt work, Evelyn’s motives are as blurry as the ghost, and Vic can no longer tell what he’s even looking at.
If there really is a repeater on site, Vic will have to decide what he trusts the official record, the fancy new tech, or the sick feeling in his gut that says this ghost is the only proof a victim ever existed.
PsyCop is an ongoing series filled with supernatural action and delightfully awkward humor–with a steady undercurrent of gay romance. It’s best read in order, so if you’re new to the series, start with PsyCop #1, Among the Living…and prepare for a hauntingly good read.
Content Domestic abuse
Victor Bayne is no stranger to ghosts, but the "dead lady in the bedroom" is really testing his limits. He’s stuck investigating a claim from an ex-tenant who’s a few sandwiches short of a picnic, but the building’s history is squeaky clean. Even Vic’s sixth sense is drawing a blank...mostly. Of course, it’s the “mostly” that keeps him from walking away.
Good thing Vic has backup. His husband Jacob is riding shotgun on the investigation, all cool competence. And visiting researcher Dr. Evelyn Hall joins in with her SPECs—cutting-edge gear that can crank Vic’s mediumship up to 11.
It should be the perfect team—a rock‑solid Stiff, a brilliant empath, and a medium who’s seen it all. Except Jacob keeps skipping out on all the grunt work, Evelyn’s motives are as blurry as the ghost, and Vic can no longer tell what he’s even looking at.
If there really is a repeater on site, Vic will have to decide what he trusts the official record, the fancy new tech, or the sick feeling in his gut that says this ghost is the only proof a victim ever existed.
PsyCop is an ongoing series filled with supernatural action and delightfully awkward humor–with a steady undercurrent of gay romance. It’s best read in order, so if you’re new to the series, start with PsyCop #1, Among the Living…and prepare for a hauntingly good read.
Content Domestic abuse
331 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2026
About the author
Jordan Castillo Price
140 books2,144 followersAuthor and artist Jordan Castillo Price writes paranormal sci-fi thrillers colored by her time in the Midwest, from inner city Chicago, to various cities across southern Wisconsin. She’s settled in a 1910 Cape Cod near Lake Michigan with tons of character and a plethora of bizarre spiders. Any disembodied noises, she’s decided, will be blamed on the ice maker.
Jordan is best known as the author of the PsyCop series, an unfolding tale of paranormal mystery and suspense starring Victor Bayne, a gay medium who's plagued by ghostly visitations.
Jordan is best known as the author of the PsyCop series, an unfolding tale of paranormal mystery and suspense starring Victor Bayne, a gay medium who's plagued by ghostly visitations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 18, 2026
This was somewhat better than the last one in that the side characters weren't obnoxious, but they also weren't particularly appealing either.
I was hoping that having someone from National along for the ride might finally push the overarching plot forward, but alas, it wasn't to be. The mystery had some interesting aspects to it, but I'm tired of the mystery of the week plots. I was happy enough to go along with them when it looked like JCP was taking this series somewhere, but I've run out of patience. It really does feel like she's just writing to write, and she has nothing more to say about this world or these characters.
Vic and Jacob felt off the whole book too. That was somewhat explained in the end, but not enough to take away Vic being so susceptible to every single off-the-wall suggestion made by everyone in here. Or to explain why Vic no longer know how to do his job. It's one thing to challenge your characters, but not if they're going to conveniently forget things they learned in previous books to drag things out.
I think I'm done. 😢
I was hoping that having someone from National along for the ride might finally push the overarching plot forward, but alas, it wasn't to be. The mystery had some interesting aspects to it, but I'm tired of the mystery of the week plots. I was happy enough to go along with them when it looked like JCP was taking this series somewhere, but I've run out of patience. It really does feel like she's just writing to write, and she has nothing more to say about this world or these characters.
Vic and Jacob felt off the whole book too. That was somewhat explained in the end, but not enough to take away Vic being so susceptible to every single off-the-wall suggestion made by everyone in here. Or to explain why Vic no longer know how to do his job. It's one thing to challenge your characters, but not if they're going to conveniently forget things they learned in previous books to drag things out.
I think I'm done. 😢
April 13, 2026
I'm starting to get annoyed at the lack of progress in the overarching plot. Don't get me wrong, this wasn't bad, at least I wasn't annoyed to no end like in the last one, but there were some things that I need to get answers, or progress to.
At first, I was taken aback by Jacob's voice. Somewhat it didn't feel right at first, I think it got better as we advance or, I get used to it. Not sure which one. And I was profundly annoyed at the way Vic handled some things... Do you remember that you were a cop once? And him
So, while I like these books (now I'm not sure if more out of habit or what), I need the whole main plot to move somewhere.
At first, I was taken aback by Jacob's voice. Somewhat it didn't feel right at first, I think it got better as we advance or, I get used to it. Not sure which one. And I was profundly annoyed at the way Vic handled some things... Do you remember that you were a cop once? And him
So, while I like these books (now I'm not sure if more out of habit or what), I need the whole main plot to move somewhere.
April 14, 2026
2.5 stars
I love this series, but it’s starting to feel like it has run its course or at least like it isn’t going anywhere, just running in circles, delivering some underwhelming case-of-the-week plots and rehashing the same patterns and issues when it comes to the FPMP, without answering any of the questions raised in the previous books.
I wouldn’t even mind it too much if it provided the same level of entertainment Vic has made me come to expect, but it definitely wasn’t the case this time (or the last one). I saw coming pretty much all the “revelations”, with the exception of , and I rolled my eyes really hard at Vic not figuring out I could’ve excused that and maybe even the fact that Vic and Jacob seemed to be out of sync and a washed-out version of themselves for most of the book, but I certainly can’t excuse I expect better from this couple and these characters after all the time and the things they’ve been through together.
It also didn’t help that the new secondary characters weren’t really people I was interested in () or that once again I was reading a plot that revolved on violence against women.
Jacob and Vic did have a nice moment at the end, in which they felt like the real thing again, and something happened plot-wise to make Vic refocus on what mattered, but it was too little too late. I didn’t hate reading this, I just went through the motions for most of it, and while I know I was a tough customer this time since I’m in the middle of a book hangover that doesn’t want to quit, I can’t help but think that the old Vic would’ve stood up better to the challenge. Taking all that into account, I’m rounding up for now, but I’m not sure how eager I’ll be to get back to this series when the next book gets out.
I love this series, but it’s starting to feel like it has run its course or at least like it isn’t going anywhere, just running in circles, delivering some underwhelming case-of-the-week plots and rehashing the same patterns and issues when it comes to the FPMP, without answering any of the questions raised in the previous books.
I wouldn’t even mind it too much if it provided the same level of entertainment Vic has made me come to expect, but it definitely wasn’t the case this time (or the last one). I saw coming pretty much all the “revelations”, with the exception of , and I rolled my eyes really hard at Vic not figuring out I could’ve excused that and maybe even the fact that Vic and Jacob seemed to be out of sync and a washed-out version of themselves for most of the book, but I certainly can’t excuse I expect better from this couple and these characters after all the time and the things they’ve been through together.
It also didn’t help that the new secondary characters weren’t really people I was interested in () or that once again I was reading a plot that revolved on violence against women.
Jacob and Vic did have a nice moment at the end, in which they felt like the real thing again, and something happened plot-wise to make Vic refocus on what mattered, but it was too little too late. I didn’t hate reading this, I just went through the motions for most of it, and while I know I was a tough customer this time since I’m in the middle of a book hangover that doesn’t want to quit, I can’t help but think that the old Vic would’ve stood up better to the challenge. Taking all that into account, I’m rounding up for now, but I’m not sure how eager I’ll be to get back to this series when the next book gets out.
April 7, 2026
I used to really enjoy this series but it’s gotten too formulaic. There’s an investigation, some evil entity gets in the way. Vic is paranoid about FPMP, they’re horrible. As usual. Jacob’s talent is stifled. Questions are not answered about their abilities. Everyone is cool with this till the next book, which still never explains anything.
May 26, 2026
Not the best of the series I'm afraid. The 'spook factor' incidents were few and far in between and whilst Vic and Jake got to do FPMP investigating as a duo this time round, the drama just wasn't as riveting as the early books. From midway on, the whole tone of the read/plot took an unexpected detour into the author's ABCs of Spellcraft wacky cray-cray territory - I was so disorientated! 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
March 31, 2026
Another amazing story
I don't know how Castillo Price continues to create such amazing and unique stories.....the idea that our personalities are pieces of etheric all linked together? The reason why Vic can't see the spirit, the layers of depth this simple story had......*chef's kiss * ......I don't know how you do it, but please don't stop.
I don't know how Castillo Price continues to create such amazing and unique stories.....the idea that our personalities are pieces of etheric all linked together? The reason why Vic can't see the spirit, the layers of depth this simple story had......*chef's kiss * ......I don't know how you do it, but please don't stop.
May 6, 2026
"We've seen some things together, the two of us. Or, more accurately, he's seen me see some things."
Vic and his snarky commentary are back and I am so here for it! I adore his internal narrative, it's one of the things that keeps me coming back for more. And in this book we are introduced to new character, Noah Boswell - and what a delightful read he is! I really appreciated how Vic saw a lot of himself in paranoid-tinfoil-hat-kinda-guy Boswell - I sometimes forget how much Vic has evolved in himself from the first half of this series and I enjoyed the comparison to this man who seems to be a more outspoken version of Vic's past self. That was a nice touch and I want to see more of him.
I did grow a little frustrated with this book, however. I found the first half dragged, but it was enjoyable once the pace picked up and I liked exploring more of the subtle bodies angle, something I had really enjoyed in Book 13.
But my main complaint still stands, and has done for the latter half of this series. Jacob points out...
"When we first met, you were so inundated with ghosts, you needed Auracel to turn them off. And now you can't see a repeater without an app?"
Same, Jacob. Same. I thought we would have had more story development by this point. We are 15 books in. 15!! And that isn't including the huge amount of short stories this series has. Yet we are, for the majority of the book, essentially stuck in the same place. Vic's grasp on his power seems to be loosening, yet his narration doesn't support that. In almost every book, this one included, we are told how powerful he is, yet he has become fearful of things that were once a mere annoyance to him, and he has struggled to perform tasks he once found simple and effortless. I keep getting secondhand embarrassment for the poor guy. I miss when he used to enlist the help of ghosts to solve cases. Now it takes him multiple attempts and a bunch of psyactives. But the ending of this was promising and it feels like maybe a change is on the way in that regard?
Now for the hard part, and I can't believe I'm saying this, but I don't feel the connection between Jacob and Vic anymore and I haven't really since Book 8 when we got Crash's story. We saw Jacob in a whole new light and I never really recovered. And then we had the wedding in Book 12 and Jacob was so distracted that it felt like the upcoming wedding was an annoyance to him. I keep waiting to feel that spark between them ignite again, and every now and then it does, but they are starting to feel pretty distant from one another.
Overall, a decent read, but I'm hoping there is a more concrete direction JCP is planning on going.
Vic and his snarky commentary are back and I am so here for it! I adore his internal narrative, it's one of the things that keeps me coming back for more. And in this book we are introduced to new character, Noah Boswell - and what a delightful read he is! I really appreciated how Vic saw a lot of himself in paranoid-tinfoil-hat-kinda-guy Boswell - I sometimes forget how much Vic has evolved in himself from the first half of this series and I enjoyed the comparison to this man who seems to be a more outspoken version of Vic's past self. That was a nice touch and I want to see more of him.
I did grow a little frustrated with this book, however. I found the first half dragged, but it was enjoyable once the pace picked up and I liked exploring more of the subtle bodies angle, something I had really enjoyed in Book 13.
But my main complaint still stands, and has done for the latter half of this series. Jacob points out...
"When we first met, you were so inundated with ghosts, you needed Auracel to turn them off. And now you can't see a repeater without an app?"
Same, Jacob. Same. I thought we would have had more story development by this point. We are 15 books in. 15!! And that isn't including the huge amount of short stories this series has. Yet we are, for the majority of the book, essentially stuck in the same place. Vic's grasp on his power seems to be loosening, yet his narration doesn't support that. In almost every book, this one included, we are told how powerful he is, yet he has become fearful of things that were once a mere annoyance to him, and he has struggled to perform tasks he once found simple and effortless. I keep getting secondhand embarrassment for the poor guy. I miss when he used to enlist the help of ghosts to solve cases. Now it takes him multiple attempts and a bunch of psyactives. But the ending of this was promising and it feels like maybe a change is on the way in that regard?
Now for the hard part, and I can't believe I'm saying this, but I don't feel the connection between Jacob and Vic anymore and I haven't really since Book 8 when we got Crash's story. We saw Jacob in a whole new light and I never really recovered. And then we had the wedding in Book 12 and Jacob was so distracted that it felt like the upcoming wedding was an annoyance to him. I keep waiting to feel that spark between them ignite again, and every now and then it does, but they are starting to feel pretty distant from one another.
Overall, a decent read, but I'm hoping there is a more concrete direction JCP is planning on going.
June 9, 2026
When I read the title, I thought I was in for another typical zombie book. I am so glad I was wrong! Vic and Jacob never let me down. This might be my favorite of the series so far. Vic cracks me up non stop. I don’t want to give the story away, but all I’m going to say is “peemobile”. Jordan Castillo-Price has a wicked sense of humor. And where does Jordan get such crazy ideas?!
April 16, 2026
This one was a bit weird for me; maybe my expectations are too high but the over arching plot lines in this series went nowhere in this book. Vic was way too trusting to someone from National and it just didn't fit his personality (seemed more like a plot device) which was frustrating. I wanted more Vic and Jacob time together since they were "partners" for this investigation. I don't need everything solved but a little forward movement would be nice. This felt like a filler book. Don't get me wrong I love Vic and Jacob so I still really enjoyed this one.
Read
April 23, 20262,5-2,75/5
I went into Living Dead hoping this would finally be the book where the PsyCop series started delivering real progress on the FPMP storyline, but unfortunately it felt like more of the same pattern we have been seeing for a while now. While I have still enjoyed recent installments on some level, they increasingly feel like they are stalling rather than advancing the overarching plot, and this one did not change that impression.
A big part of the issue for me was engagement. I found myself bored for a significant portion of the book, only really becoming invested in the final third when things finally started to pick up. The central mystery had some interesting ideas, but at this point in the series, I need more than just another case-of-the-week. Earlier books managed to balance episodic plots with meaningful long-term development, but that balance now feels off.
The lack of progress on the FPMP storyline is becoming frustrating. Questions continue to be raised without any real answers, and opportunities to move things forward, such as the involvement of someone from National, were not used in a satisfying way. It is starting to feel less like a deliberate slow burn and more like the story is circling without a clear destination.
The audiobook narration by Gomez Pugh was also a challenge for me this time. It has been a while since I last listened to his work, and it reminded me how much his style is something you need to stay used to. Vic’s voice came across as quite flat and almost robotic to my ears, which made it harder to stay immersed in the story.
Overall, this was not a bad entry, but it felt underwhelming and repetitive, especially this far into the series. I still care about these characters, but I am starting to lose patience with the lack of direction and payoff.
I went into Living Dead hoping this would finally be the book where the PsyCop series started delivering real progress on the FPMP storyline, but unfortunately it felt like more of the same pattern we have been seeing for a while now. While I have still enjoyed recent installments on some level, they increasingly feel like they are stalling rather than advancing the overarching plot, and this one did not change that impression.
A big part of the issue for me was engagement. I found myself bored for a significant portion of the book, only really becoming invested in the final third when things finally started to pick up. The central mystery had some interesting ideas, but at this point in the series, I need more than just another case-of-the-week. Earlier books managed to balance episodic plots with meaningful long-term development, but that balance now feels off.
The lack of progress on the FPMP storyline is becoming frustrating. Questions continue to be raised without any real answers, and opportunities to move things forward, such as the involvement of someone from National, were not used in a satisfying way. It is starting to feel less like a deliberate slow burn and more like the story is circling without a clear destination.
The audiobook narration by Gomez Pugh was also a challenge for me this time. It has been a while since I last listened to his work, and it reminded me how much his style is something you need to stay used to. Vic’s voice came across as quite flat and almost robotic to my ears, which made it harder to stay immersed in the story.
Overall, this was not a bad entry, but it felt underwhelming and repetitive, especially this far into the series. I still care about these characters, but I am starting to lose patience with the lack of direction and payoff.
March 30, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Living Dead by Jordan Castillo Price is the fifteenth book in the author’s fabulous PsyCop series. I have been reading this series for well over a decade now, and the fact that I still get excited every time a new book comes out is a credit to Price’s writing and the wonderful world and characters she has built with this series. The books build upon one another, both on the personal side and in the world building, so these are best read in order, or at least by those who have some familiarity with the series.
Fans of this series are sure to enjoy this latest installment and I will continue to eagerly go back for more as long as Price continues the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Living Dead by Jordan Castillo Price is the fifteenth book in the author’s fabulous PsyCop series. I have been reading this series for well over a decade now, and the fact that I still get excited every time a new book comes out is a credit to Price’s writing and the wonderful world and characters she has built with this series. The books build upon one another, both on the personal side and in the world building, so these are best read in order, or at least by those who have some familiarity with the series.
Fans of this series are sure to enjoy this latest installment and I will continue to eagerly go back for more as long as Price continues the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 4, 2026
Vic and Jacob are back!
I've been reading this series for many years, and it keeps getting better and better. The world JCP has built has me loving her imagination. Vic is so well written, sarcastic, numerous, and loyalty his husband Jake. They are the Dream Team for me, and I cant wait to do a reread of the entire series.
I've been reading this series for many years, and it keeps getting better and better. The world JCP has built has me loving her imagination. Vic is so well written, sarcastic, numerous, and loyalty his husband Jake. They are the Dream Team for me, and I cant wait to do a reread of the entire series.
July 22, 2026
Vic has changed so much over the course of this series. He's a full-ass adult now, married, confident, and no longer relying on drugs in order to cope with seeing dead people. He's stable, which is wonderful for a person, but not so satisfying for a fictional character. And, with the real world being what it is—though I acknowledge that isn't where Vic lives—I keep waiting for him to realize that ACAB. Now, that might not be where JCP wants to take him, a cop, as she's shown no signs of driving the narrative that way, but she has set Vic up in a situation where he doesn't trust the federal law enforcement agency he works for to keep him or other psychics safe, and I think she needs to face that reality head on. Vic's coasting, while all around him powerful psychics are going missing, and he and his husband are afraid they'll be next.
But that's only a slice of this book where a scientist from national headquarters is visiting Chicago with some new technology she'd like Vic to try out, and Vic's trying to solve the mystery of a haunted apartment, except he can't find any dead people responsible for the ghost. There's some impressively comedic and tense situations where Vic has to wrangle two very difficult people and a cat while still doing his job and not giving himself away to the scientist from National. Meanwhile, Jacob continues to be the most boring man alive. But at least I remembered his name this time.
Contains: explicit m/m sex; cops; memories of domestic violence; mental illness (including paranoia).
But that's only a slice of this book where a scientist from national headquarters is visiting Chicago with some new technology she'd like Vic to try out, and Vic's trying to solve the mystery of a haunted apartment, except he can't find any dead people responsible for the ghost. There's some impressively comedic and tense situations where Vic has to wrangle two very difficult people and a cat while still doing his job and not giving himself away to the scientist from National. Meanwhile, Jacob continues to be the most boring man alive. But at least I remembered his name this time.
Contains: explicit m/m sex; cops; memories of domestic violence; mental illness (including paranoia).
April 7, 2026
I enjoyed the heck outta this. 'nuf said.
April 10, 2026
I've been reading this series since book 1 came out. That one is still among my favorite novels of all time. This one's slower, but the last few chapterss put it above average, and the end scene is a touch of perfection in ongoing couple romance.
July 29, 2026
I love and missed Victor, he is one of my favourite characters. I agree with many reviewers saying he didn't feel like his usual self and that is true. Probably is getting used to a routine and unless something really bad, paranormal wise, he'll be less cautious and act differently.
I know they're an established couple so seeing them all lovey dovey was going to be hard, with them never being like that to begin with, but a spark was missing.
Giving it 5 stars for Victor because I love him.
I know they're an established couple so seeing them all lovey dovey was going to be hard, with them never being like that to begin with, but a spark was missing.
Giving it 5 stars for Victor because I love him.
April 5, 2026
'Living Dead' (PsyCop #15) written by Jordan Castillo Price (Kindle)
April 2026 (4.5 stars)
This is the first book in this series that I haven't had the paperback version, and I miss it. I like having an real book to hold, so I might have to go buy the actual book now, lol... I'm trying to read off a phone screen (no computer) and it gets annoying!
Love all the covers in this series, btw!
This book started a bit slow for me, for some reason, although I am glad our guys got back to home base in Chicago.
At first I thought Jacob was acting really strangely til I (finally) copped to the fact he was trying to protect Victor (and himself) from yet more privacy invasions.
And Victor was being his usual snarky sarcastic grumpy resting-bitch-faced self...(yay!)
There's new, mostly untested equipment for Victor to experiment with, in the form of "enhanced" eyeglasses. And, "Boy Howdy!" do they screw around with his perceptions!
Quote:
"...visiting researcher Dr. Evelyn Hall joins in with her SPECs—cutting-edge gear that can crank Vic’s mediumship up to 11".
Holy Cannoli, Batman! There's so much tangled web of spy vs spy that no one knows WHO to trust...even Vic & Jacob are struggling with figuring out what the hell is happening, even with each other.
Great storyline, and even though it's not my all-time fave book in this series, it's still a good book in the wheelhouse of my favorite series!
Definitely recommend reading! And if any of you other readers out there are contemplating reading this book, who haven't yet read anything else in this series?
Do yourself a great big favor and start with Book 1, your curious brain & your creative self will thank you!
Seriously; one of the most engaging and well-written series out there, especially in the paranormal range. Throw in some sweet & spicy MM romance into the mix and I'm all in! 🌈💗🤠🕵♂️💗
I like that Price is opening up new possibilities into the occult esoteric and multiple layers of realities!
Can't wait to read more!
👍
April 2026 (4.5 stars)
This is the first book in this series that I haven't had the paperback version, and I miss it. I like having an real book to hold, so I might have to go buy the actual book now, lol... I'm trying to read off a phone screen (no computer) and it gets annoying!
Love all the covers in this series, btw!
This book started a bit slow for me, for some reason, although I am glad our guys got back to home base in Chicago.
At first I thought Jacob was acting really strangely til I (finally) copped to the fact he was trying to protect Victor (and himself) from yet more privacy invasions.
And Victor was being his usual snarky sarcastic grumpy resting-bitch-faced self...(yay!)
There's new, mostly untested equipment for Victor to experiment with, in the form of "enhanced" eyeglasses. And, "Boy Howdy!" do they screw around with his perceptions!
Quote:
"...visiting researcher Dr. Evelyn Hall joins in with her SPECs—cutting-edge gear that can crank Vic’s mediumship up to 11".
Holy Cannoli, Batman! There's so much tangled web of spy vs spy that no one knows WHO to trust...even Vic & Jacob are struggling with figuring out what the hell is happening, even with each other.
Great storyline, and even though it's not my all-time fave book in this series, it's still a good book in the wheelhouse of my favorite series!
Definitely recommend reading! And if any of you other readers out there are contemplating reading this book, who haven't yet read anything else in this series?
Do yourself a great big favor and start with Book 1, your curious brain & your creative self will thank you!
Seriously; one of the most engaging and well-written series out there, especially in the paranormal range. Throw in some sweet & spicy MM romance into the mix and I'm all in! 🌈💗🤠🕵♂️💗
I like that Price is opening up new possibilities into the occult esoteric and multiple layers of realities!
Can't wait to read more!
👍
May 28, 2026
Living Dead (Psycop 15)
By Jordan Castillo Price
Published by JCP
Five stars
It has been so much fun to follow Victor Bayne’s (mis)adventures psychic mystery-solving (detection?). Bayne may think he’s still a hot mess, but we can see he’s really not. This story seems to focus on a serenity-inducing video game aimed at children that has morphed into something Victor doesn’t like. Then Victor and Jacob meet that game’s original designer, who they learn is from “National,” a term that strikes fear (or at least anxiety) into both their hearts. She seems like a good sort, and comes armed with a piece of tantalizing new technology; but neither Victor nor Jacob can get away from the fear that, should “National” discover just how much they’ve both been hiding about their actual psychic capabilities, they’ll be whisked off to a laboratory to be studied for the “greater good.”
The mystery that sets off this chain of events is something new from Jordan Castillo Price’s fertile imagination: the idea of a “ghost” being in fact not necessarily somebody dead. If that seems puzzling, well, you’ve got the right idea. What seems like an unimportant citing of a ghost by a tin-foil-hat type of social misfit turns into something both intriguing and terrifying.
All the while, Victor and Jacob keep trying to protect each other without fully communicating (you know, men). The results are, like much of this series, a mixture of hair-raising and near-slapstick goofiness. What we have at the center, however, is a gay couple who are solid and happy, which gives them a kind of superpower.
It isn’t easy to comprehend the whole “Psycop” universe in any one of Price’s books; they each do best in the context of the preceding books. Jordan Castillo Price’s Psycop series is one of the richest and most imaginative I know, in which psychic and paranormal phenomena become almost science fiction. Victor Bayne is a victim-turned-superhero, whose only motivation is to find justice and be happy. In what could be a very dark series, there’s an awful lot of light.
By Jordan Castillo Price
Published by JCP
Five stars
It has been so much fun to follow Victor Bayne’s (mis)adventures psychic mystery-solving (detection?). Bayne may think he’s still a hot mess, but we can see he’s really not. This story seems to focus on a serenity-inducing video game aimed at children that has morphed into something Victor doesn’t like. Then Victor and Jacob meet that game’s original designer, who they learn is from “National,” a term that strikes fear (or at least anxiety) into both their hearts. She seems like a good sort, and comes armed with a piece of tantalizing new technology; but neither Victor nor Jacob can get away from the fear that, should “National” discover just how much they’ve both been hiding about their actual psychic capabilities, they’ll be whisked off to a laboratory to be studied for the “greater good.”
The mystery that sets off this chain of events is something new from Jordan Castillo Price’s fertile imagination: the idea of a “ghost” being in fact not necessarily somebody dead. If that seems puzzling, well, you’ve got the right idea. What seems like an unimportant citing of a ghost by a tin-foil-hat type of social misfit turns into something both intriguing and terrifying.
All the while, Victor and Jacob keep trying to protect each other without fully communicating (you know, men). The results are, like much of this series, a mixture of hair-raising and near-slapstick goofiness. What we have at the center, however, is a gay couple who are solid and happy, which gives them a kind of superpower.
It isn’t easy to comprehend the whole “Psycop” universe in any one of Price’s books; they each do best in the context of the preceding books. Jordan Castillo Price’s Psycop series is one of the richest and most imaginative I know, in which psychic and paranormal phenomena become almost science fiction. Victor Bayne is a victim-turned-superhero, whose only motivation is to find justice and be happy. In what could be a very dark series, there’s an awful lot of light.
April 24, 2026
In what seems like one of the shortest Psycop books in the series (maybe not), Vic is tasked with finding a medium. However, it ends up becoming a wannabe homicide case which wasn’t the plan.
I have been with this series from the start, no joke. The first book was published in 2006 and I started reading ebooks in 2005, when they were barely a thing. So I’ve put in the hours. However, I might have to think about parting way with this series. Despite always giving the author props for her writing and storytelling in general (she’s one of the better writers in this genre), I have never cared to read her other stories (just didn’t appeal). So all my eggs were in this basket, so to speak.
I just don’t see the point of this series anymore. This felt like another filler where Vic does this weird dance with his powers, a female character is inserted and Jacob runs interference with National (the never ending boogeyman of the whole series).
What is the point?
Get to the point already. Who is the big bad, is there a big bad? Why can’t Vic be in tuned with his powers already. Why did I read a book about him needing a game app to centre himself. No joke that was the worst part. Will we ever understand Jacob’s family history and what his powers are.
There comes a point that as an author you either know the end game or you’re just waffling. Despite JCP being a talented writer her storytelling in this book is bad in terms of the overall arc. What she does well is having that creepy factor to her writing. The cases she writes always have a thriller aspect to them (she’d probably do well outside the MM genre if she ever tried to get into the crime/psychological genre).
This series is hardly updated at most once a year. So its not a huge deal to continue, but I feel like I’m beginning to get really bored of it all, and it’s a shame because for the most part it has been a wonderful series, that probably hasn’t gotten as much credit as it should have.
I have been with this series from the start, no joke. The first book was published in 2006 and I started reading ebooks in 2005, when they were barely a thing. So I’ve put in the hours. However, I might have to think about parting way with this series. Despite always giving the author props for her writing and storytelling in general (she’s one of the better writers in this genre), I have never cared to read her other stories (just didn’t appeal). So all my eggs were in this basket, so to speak.
I just don’t see the point of this series anymore. This felt like another filler where Vic does this weird dance with his powers, a female character is inserted and Jacob runs interference with National (the never ending boogeyman of the whole series).
What is the point?
Get to the point already. Who is the big bad, is there a big bad? Why can’t Vic be in tuned with his powers already. Why did I read a book about him needing a game app to centre himself. No joke that was the worst part. Will we ever understand Jacob’s family history and what his powers are.
There comes a point that as an author you either know the end game or you’re just waffling. Despite JCP being a talented writer her storytelling in this book is bad in terms of the overall arc. What she does well is having that creepy factor to her writing. The cases she writes always have a thriller aspect to them (she’d probably do well outside the MM genre if she ever tried to get into the crime/psychological genre).
This series is hardly updated at most once a year. So its not a huge deal to continue, but I feel like I’m beginning to get really bored of it all, and it’s a shame because for the most part it has been a wonderful series, that probably hasn’t gotten as much credit as it should have.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ill start by saying I love this series, from book 1 its always been my auto-buy when another comes out. This one stood out as its more about the subtle bodies part of Vics talent, which I was looking forward to exploring more after Psy-train.
Our story starts with Vic and his low level addiction to his phone and his favorite kids app *gasp* I know right? He's moved away from the scowling it open to unlock it days, but really if you have read the series you know that "character development" is his middle name and I love being with him for this ride.
I tucked into the book and read it in about 24 hours. The mystery is enough to keep you hooked and somewhat guessing until the end just what is going on. There are Vic and Jacob of course; Crash, Laura, lots of our old friends.....and there are lots of laughs, a new potential medium (Howard Hughes wanna-be who is a bit crazy but almost sweet in a you never want to ride in his van kinda way) some pretty cool tech (if only Vic's brain didn't have to keep being a guinea pig for this stuff!) and a giant douchebag who gets his comeuppance in a spectacular way.
All in all it was a great ride, I can't wait for the audio so I can experience it all over again!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Our story starts with Vic and his low level addiction to his phone and his favorite kids app *gasp* I know right? He's moved away from the scowling it open to unlock it days, but really if you have read the series you know that "character development" is his middle name and I love being with him for this ride.
I tucked into the book and read it in about 24 hours. The mystery is enough to keep you hooked and somewhat guessing until the end just what is going on. There are Vic and Jacob of course; Crash, Laura, lots of our old friends.....and there are lots of laughs, a new potential medium (Howard Hughes wanna-be who is a bit crazy but almost sweet in a you never want to ride in his van kinda way) some pretty cool tech (if only Vic's brain didn't have to keep being a guinea pig for this stuff!) and a giant douchebag who gets his comeuppance in a spectacular way.
All in all it was a great ride, I can't wait for the audio so I can experience it all over again!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2026
Any time a new book in this series is announced, I begin my annual re-read of the whole series. Not because I don't remember what happened before, but because I love to revisit the evolving story of these characters. The Vic from Among the Living is the same as the one from 'Living Dead', just better. Happier, stronger, fuller... and still scowling XD
This book deals with subtler bodies, and I cannot explain how happy that makes me. The way in which this concept keeps getting expanded and analysed is fabulous.
We also have someone from National who might or might not be there to spy on Vic. But, hey! she has nice tech! *dies laughing*
And Jacob is acting... weird. Is this because he only got a 'satisfactory' (THE HORROR!) in his annual review? Or it's because he's coveting the nice tech?
There is also a new medium in town. Although he is, maybe, a little bit... nuts. Anyway, I won't recommend you to ride in his van :P
And the case... oh, the case is such a great one! The characters involved in it are complicated; there is a ghost... or maybe it isn't. But most certainly, there is a very, very bad man who will get his comeuppance.
So, yes, I just love it, and I'm sure you will too. And if you still haven't read this series, what are you waiting for? You won't regret it!
This book deals with subtler bodies, and I cannot explain how happy that makes me. The way in which this concept keeps getting expanded and analysed is fabulous.
We also have someone from National who might or might not be there to spy on Vic. But, hey! she has nice tech! *dies laughing*
And Jacob is acting... weird. Is this because he only got a 'satisfactory' (THE HORROR!) in his annual review? Or it's because he's coveting the nice tech?
There is also a new medium in town. Although he is, maybe, a little bit... nuts. Anyway, I won't recommend you to ride in his van :P
And the case... oh, the case is such a great one! The characters involved in it are complicated; there is a ghost... or maybe it isn't. But most certainly, there is a very, very bad man who will get his comeuppance.
So, yes, I just love it, and I'm sure you will too. And if you still haven't read this series, what are you waiting for? You won't regret it!
May 19, 2026
Medium Victor Bayne and his partner, Jacob, are uneasy when a visiting researcher from the dreaded National Office arrives. Dr Evelyn Hall has created special glasses and an app that may amplify Victor’s powers, leaving Jacob wrestling with his semi-permanent jealousy over what Vic can do. The pair get embroiled in a case which may yield a new untrained medium with powers that may almost rival Vic’s but it all gets complicated by a missing (possibly dead) person, a suspicious mailman, a car full of urine, unhelpful pets, and lots of people’s metaphysical selves being jostled out of their physical bodies! Can Vic and Jacob put all the humpty dumpties back together again?
It’s always such a treat to return to the PsyCop world: Vic is his usual pessimistic cynical self; Jacob is equally stoical; and Murphy’s Law always has the last laugh—a lot goes wrong in this very entertaining story! I also love that each instalment continues to expand Vic’s (and our) knowledge of the spirit world and Jordan Castillo Price never seems to run out of fresh creative ideas. 🎧 Voice actor Gomez Pugh is always excellent, and he continues to channel Vic, Jacob, and all the other zany characters (and animals) with heart and humour!
It’s always such a treat to return to the PsyCop world: Vic is his usual pessimistic cynical self; Jacob is equally stoical; and Murphy’s Law always has the last laugh—a lot goes wrong in this very entertaining story! I also love that each instalment continues to expand Vic’s (and our) knowledge of the spirit world and Jordan Castillo Price never seems to run out of fresh creative ideas. 🎧 Voice actor Gomez Pugh is always excellent, and he continues to channel Vic, Jacob, and all the other zany characters (and animals) with heart and humour!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Living Dead (PsyCop Book 15) by Jordan Castillo Price is a classic Victor story and I loved it! It is set completely in Chicago, a return to the setting of many previous books, and includes some familiar characters as well. Not that I didn’t enjoy seeing Vic out in the wilds of the rest of the world outside Chicago, but having the story take place in Chicago in a few locations almost felt cozy, if not for the potential ghost who did not die happily (not a spoiler since the definition of a repeater is a violent death). We see less of Vic’s husband Jacob and in his stead is a new character, Dr. Hall, bringing some new toys from FPMP HQ in DC. I hope they make future appearances in Vic’s life of solving crime. Dr. Hall represents another gender, another age group, and a different psychic ability, so they do bring some new tools to the solving of problems Vic and Jacob encounter. The one thing I missed in this book was seeing Jacob use his newly found power in his home setting. I hope, since the author is only writing one series now, that the PsyCop books come out more frequently. I received a review copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 11, 2026
Great continuation of the series - 4.5*
Well, Vic and Jacob have done it again and managed to get themselves in the middle of an investigation that is nowhere near as straight forward as it first seems. There's even more of a 'Vic and Jacob against the world' vibe with this book which comes from the ever present threat that National might be breathing down their necks...and closer than they even think.
I love that, fifteen books deep into the PsyCop series, the MCs' relationship is still developing. They're so protective of each other and so completely settled together without having lost any of the spark that keeps things exciting. Then there's the ever expanding world building, both from the perspective of new side characters who could return and the progressive theories around entities / subtle bodies and Victor and Jacob's abilities in relation to them.
Yes, there's so much to like about this book and the series overall...I'm always left wanting more. Bring on book 16!!
Well, Vic and Jacob have done it again and managed to get themselves in the middle of an investigation that is nowhere near as straight forward as it first seems. There's even more of a 'Vic and Jacob against the world' vibe with this book which comes from the ever present threat that National might be breathing down their necks...and closer than they even think.
I love that, fifteen books deep into the PsyCop series, the MCs' relationship is still developing. They're so protective of each other and so completely settled together without having lost any of the spark that keeps things exciting. Then there's the ever expanding world building, both from the perspective of new side characters who could return and the progressive theories around entities / subtle bodies and Victor and Jacob's abilities in relation to them.
Yes, there's so much to like about this book and the series overall...I'm always left wanting more. Bring on book 16!!
April 12, 2026
If it weren't for the fact that it is essentially a rehash of themes, storylines, and character situations from earlier books in the series, this book could easily receive three stars. Characters spin their wheels, questions go unanswered, abilities go unexamined, and villains remain ambiguous; nothing really happens in this story. This addition to the universe had a very abrupt, unsatisfactory, and unearned ending, and it felt especially like filler.
I still don't know what level Crash's empathy score is, and I was a little perplexed by Con's entire scheme to conceal his gifts. I believe National needs to be expanded upon and exposed for what they are, as Laura just seems like a ridiculous leader cursed with perpetual tunnel vision. I believe the next one should look into the usefulness, effectiveness, and limitations of James's skill set and actually provide some clarity regarding his everything.
I still don't know what level Crash's empathy score is, and I was a little perplexed by Con's entire scheme to conceal his gifts. I believe National needs to be expanded upon and exposed for what they are, as Laura just seems like a ridiculous leader cursed with perpetual tunnel vision. I believe the next one should look into the usefulness, effectiveness, and limitations of James's skill set and actually provide some clarity regarding his everything.
May 2, 2026
This is actually probably more 4.5 stars because I really missed Jacob and their interactions.
I love that this series continues to be worth reading because the World and the characters continue to expand and grow emotionally. I like that Vic found out he could stand by himself but that it was more fulfilling when Jacob was by his side. I also love how they are so protective of each other. I hope we see more of Evelyn in future books, she's an interesting addition. I love how the understanding of psych is growing. It was also nice to see how a lot of issues we're seeing in the real world were woven into the story. Another amazing addition to a series I have loved from the start and that I still am not tired of or disappointed in which so often happens with long running series.
Audio: Pugh is Vic, it feels like he was born to narrate Vic's life at this point. I love that he never messes up pronunciations, something that drives me mad, and that he imbues the characters with life.
I love that this series continues to be worth reading because the World and the characters continue to expand and grow emotionally. I like that Vic found out he could stand by himself but that it was more fulfilling when Jacob was by his side. I also love how they are so protective of each other. I hope we see more of Evelyn in future books, she's an interesting addition. I love how the understanding of psych is growing. It was also nice to see how a lot of issues we're seeing in the real world were woven into the story. Another amazing addition to a series I have loved from the start and that I still am not tired of or disappointed in which so often happens with long running series.
Audio: Pugh is Vic, it feels like he was born to narrate Vic's life at this point. I love that he never messes up pronunciations, something that drives me mad, and that he imbues the characters with life.
July 18, 2026
Reading Vic and Jacob's adventures is like coming back to my favorite pair of mittens. I feel warm and fuzzy and surrounded by memories of past adventures with those mittens. And then I find the mittens still fit and though they sometimes mysteriously get cold or wet, they are still my mittens and always come through for me.
I love these guys and Gomez Pugh comes through for me again with Vic's deadpan delivery and Jacob's soft-spoken concern as he offers advice and support to Vic in his ghost-hunting adventures. This adventure was an interesting take on a murder that wasn't really a murder, but more of a separation of the emotional ethereal body of the victim from the earthly body. Unique, fun, thrilling, and scary, this one runs the gamut of emotions for both the characters and the readers.
But at the end, who's together at the end of the night when all is said and done? This strong, capable couple who love each other, faults and all. I'm envious. And I love them.
I love these guys and Gomez Pugh comes through for me again with Vic's deadpan delivery and Jacob's soft-spoken concern as he offers advice and support to Vic in his ghost-hunting adventures. This adventure was an interesting take on a murder that wasn't really a murder, but more of a separation of the emotional ethereal body of the victim from the earthly body. Unique, fun, thrilling, and scary, this one runs the gamut of emotions for both the characters and the readers.
But at the end, who's together at the end of the night when all is said and done? This strong, capable couple who love each other, faults and all. I'm envious. And I love them.
April 12, 2026
I love this series so much, but what amazes me, is that 15 books in and there is character growth and important world/plot building. This book in particular, opened a new understanding of psychic bodies and how they work.
Vic is an unreliable narrator, and part of reading the series is always trying to figure out what is unreasonable paranoia and what is justified. Having Vic come across someone more paranoid made an interesting juxtaposition especially when Vic was trying to tell Boswell things wouldn't happen to him that had happened to Vic.
It's also been interesting to see Vic miss his old job and fall back into it so easily. I am very curious to see where it goes.
Evelyn was a great new character, and I hope we see her again. It will also be interesting if we see Boswell grow. So now I'm left eagerly awaiting the next book.
Vic is an unreliable narrator, and part of reading the series is always trying to figure out what is unreasonable paranoia and what is justified. Having Vic come across someone more paranoid made an interesting juxtaposition especially when Vic was trying to tell Boswell things wouldn't happen to him that had happened to Vic.
It's also been interesting to see Vic miss his old job and fall back into it so easily. I am very curious to see where it goes.
Evelyn was a great new character, and I hope we see her again. It will also be interesting if we see Boswell grow. So now I'm left eagerly awaiting the next book.
March 30, 2026
Love this series!
Probably one of my most re-read series! I love Vic's POV, but I gotta say that it did transform since the earlier books. He feels less jaded and more empathetic. Anyway, I liked this book but the storyline with glasses did feel a little anticlimactic. I wish Vic used them more or something (not sure what I want but it feels like Ghost TV is more fun hahahah).
The mystery part was fairly cool, although a bit more predictable.
4 stars and not 5 is not because I didn't like this book, but more so because I really really liked the two previous ones (subtle bodies is my favorite).
Have been following this series for a decade and hope will get to read it for years to come! Never getting tired of it.
Probably one of my most re-read series! I love Vic's POV, but I gotta say that it did transform since the earlier books. He feels less jaded and more empathetic. Anyway, I liked this book but the storyline with glasses did feel a little anticlimactic. I wish Vic used them more or something (not sure what I want but it feels like Ghost TV is more fun hahahah).
The mystery part was fairly cool, although a bit more predictable.
4 stars and not 5 is not because I didn't like this book, but more so because I really really liked the two previous ones (subtle bodies is my favorite).
Have been following this series for a decade and hope will get to read it for years to come! Never getting tired of it.
April 3, 2026
On kobo (EPub 3 DRM-Free; 273 pages)
The big problem with this series is that the books are so intriguing that the pages seem to turn by themselves and all too soon we get to the end - and the interminable wait until the next release! it's fortunate that there are now enough in the sereies to reward rereading without becoming overfamiliar with the stories.
The central relationship is almost intriguing enough by itself but the tension whenever National becomes involved ratchets things up a notch or two extra. Here a possible medium is discovered and Vic is tasked with finding him and escorting him to FPMP for testing... Not as simple task as might be hoped...
The big problem with this series is that the books are so intriguing that the pages seem to turn by themselves and all too soon we get to the end - and the interminable wait until the next release! it's fortunate that there are now enough in the sereies to reward rereading without becoming overfamiliar with the stories.
The central relationship is almost intriguing enough by itself but the tension whenever National becomes involved ratchets things up a notch or two extra. Here a possible medium is discovered and Vic is tasked with finding him and escorting him to FPMP for testing... Not as simple task as might be hoped...
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