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Murder On The Leon: A clean private investigator mystery
Not yet published
Expected 23 Apr 26A former sheriff undercover. A ship full of lies. And a killer about to walk free.
Former sheriff turned PI Fen Maguire goes undercover on an Alaskan cruise to solve a cold case murder. As the ship nears port, Fen races to unmask the killer before justice slips away into the Alaskan wilderness.
Former sheriff turned PI Fen Maguire goes undercover on an Alaskan cruise to solve a cold case murder. As the ship nears port, Fen races to unmask the killer before justice slips away into the Alaskan wilderness.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 23, 2026
2 people are currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Hammack
51 books429 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
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March 27, 2026I received an advanced copy.
Wow, let me just say wow. Granted, I was a little over halfway into the book when I had a strong feeling who the murderer was. Naturally, it was not confirmed until the very end.
What made this book a must read were all the sub plots. Thelma and her meddling. Then there's the relationship between Baily and Jeremy...can they survive the cruise? And the sparks flying between Fen and Audrey makes one really wonder whether or not they can wait another 4 years.
The new characters we were introduced to were dynamite. One actually has a visceral response to Patrick. How Lou can stand him for the duration of the cruise is still a mystery to me. We now see a greater depth to her character that was completely hidden until this book.
I sincerely hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Wow, let me just say wow. Granted, I was a little over halfway into the book when I had a strong feeling who the murderer was. Naturally, it was not confirmed until the very end.
What made this book a must read were all the sub plots. Thelma and her meddling. Then there's the relationship between Baily and Jeremy...can they survive the cruise? And the sparks flying between Fen and Audrey makes one really wonder whether or not they can wait another 4 years.
The new characters we were introduced to were dynamite. One actually has a visceral response to Patrick. How Lou can stand him for the duration of the cruise is still a mystery to me. We now see a greater depth to her character that was completely hidden until this book.
I sincerely hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Murder on the Leon is a warm, character-driven story with a layered mystery, charming relationships, and a setting that made me want to pack my bags for Alaska — minus the murder, of course.
At the center of the story is Fen Maguire — a retired sheriff, rancher, and artist who seems determined to enjoy a relaxing Alaskan cruise. Naturally, that plan unravels when he’s drawn into the suspicious death of nurse Tracy Voss, whose body was pulled from the Leon River months earlier. Soon, what appears to be a nearly solved case grows more complicated, with suspects boarding the same cruise ship as Fen and his unofficial investigative team.
Fen is thoughtful, observant, and quietly humorous — the kind of protagonist you genuinely enjoy spending time with. His relationships with Bailey, Lou, and Audrey add warmth and personality to the story, and their interactions often provide lighthearted moments that balance the darker elements of the mystery. The romance subplot is gentle and believable, while Bailey’s personal struggles add emotional depth that goes beyond a typical whodunit.
The mystery itself unfolds gradually. What begins as a case involving two obvious suspects — the victim’s ex-husband and a former romantic interest — slowly reveals deeper layers, false leads, and surprising developments. The investigation evolves into what Fen describes as an “almost perfect crime,” one that was carefully planned and designed to mislead authorities.
The Alaskan cruise adds a unique atmosphere, blending cozy travel vibes with investigative tension. From art classes and whale watching to quiet conversations and subtle interrogations, the cruise setting keeps things fresh and engaging.
The pacing is relaxed. This is more of a cozy, character-driven mystery than a high-speed suspense novel — but honestly, that’s part of its charm.
Looking forward to the next cozy mystery with Fen Maguire.
I received an advance review copy am leaving this review voluntarily.
At the center of the story is Fen Maguire — a retired sheriff, rancher, and artist who seems determined to enjoy a relaxing Alaskan cruise. Naturally, that plan unravels when he’s drawn into the suspicious death of nurse Tracy Voss, whose body was pulled from the Leon River months earlier. Soon, what appears to be a nearly solved case grows more complicated, with suspects boarding the same cruise ship as Fen and his unofficial investigative team.
Fen is thoughtful, observant, and quietly humorous — the kind of protagonist you genuinely enjoy spending time with. His relationships with Bailey, Lou, and Audrey add warmth and personality to the story, and their interactions often provide lighthearted moments that balance the darker elements of the mystery. The romance subplot is gentle and believable, while Bailey’s personal struggles add emotional depth that goes beyond a typical whodunit.
The mystery itself unfolds gradually. What begins as a case involving two obvious suspects — the victim’s ex-husband and a former romantic interest — slowly reveals deeper layers, false leads, and surprising developments. The investigation evolves into what Fen describes as an “almost perfect crime,” one that was carefully planned and designed to mislead authorities.
The Alaskan cruise adds a unique atmosphere, blending cozy travel vibes with investigative tension. From art classes and whale watching to quiet conversations and subtle interrogations, the cruise setting keeps things fresh and engaging.
The pacing is relaxed. This is more of a cozy, character-driven mystery than a high-speed suspense novel — but honestly, that’s part of its charm.
Looking forward to the next cozy mystery with Fen Maguire.
I received an advance review copy am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Murder on the Leon by Bruce Hammack reinforced my love of this series! If you're a fan of clean PI books, you need to check these out. Though this is the eighth book in the series, if this is your genre, you will enjoy it even if you've not read the others. There is a very cozy feel to these books, and the characters who assist Fen are amateur "detectives."
This character driven book is different in that it mainly takes place on an Alaskan cruise rather than in Texas. Thelma still gets her "bossy" on before they leave, so it's all good. I adore the characters, and they give this a found-family vibe. They care for each other in a way that family does, and this just adds to the charm of these books.
I was skeptical of the cruise setting, but most of the main characters are on the cruise. Fen and Bailey are teaching an art class, and when he learns that two suspects in a murder investigation will be on the cruise, he invites Lou, an independent journalist, along to wine and dine one of the suspects. Bailey's boyfriend comes along as Fen's cabin mate, and Audrey joins as Bailey's cabin mate.
I loved following the clues, the little side stories, the Alaskan cruise setting, and watching how the story developed. This really made me want to go on an Alaskan cruise! I mean, I could go just for the food! However, the sea otters clinched it for me. And the whales. And the whale calves. Okay, just about everything except for the possible sea sickness. I'd be depending on those little pills to keep me from it.
This is another winner in my book, and I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This character driven book is different in that it mainly takes place on an Alaskan cruise rather than in Texas. Thelma still gets her "bossy" on before they leave, so it's all good. I adore the characters, and they give this a found-family vibe. They care for each other in a way that family does, and this just adds to the charm of these books.
I was skeptical of the cruise setting, but most of the main characters are on the cruise. Fen and Bailey are teaching an art class, and when he learns that two suspects in a murder investigation will be on the cruise, he invites Lou, an independent journalist, along to wine and dine one of the suspects. Bailey's boyfriend comes along as Fen's cabin mate, and Audrey joins as Bailey's cabin mate.
I loved following the clues, the little side stories, the Alaskan cruise setting, and watching how the story developed. This really made me want to go on an Alaskan cruise! I mean, I could go just for the food! However, the sea otters clinched it for me. And the whales. And the whale calves. Okay, just about everything except for the possible sea sickness. I'd be depending on those little pills to keep me from it.
This is another winner in my book, and I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Here is another great addition to the Fen Maguire series, and it doesn’t disappoint. We find the former sheriff turned PI going undercover on an Alaskan cruise to solve a cold case murder that has everyone baffled. Of course, Fen takes his team along, which includes his protégé Bailey and her boyfriend, Jeremy; the hard-nosed reporter, Lou, who’s eager to get the big scoop; and Fen’s fiancée, Audrey, whom he plans to wed in four years. However, I don’t know if anxious readers will be able to wait that long, as they make such a delightful and wonderfully playful, mischievous couple. They are perfect for each other!
I really enjoy when the author takes his characters on wonderful trips, and this one paints a beautiful picture of an Alaskan cruise. I am not sure which I enjoyed more, the murder mystery or the descriptions of beautiful scenery, whales, icebergs, and ports of call experienced on this bumpy ride.
Stormy seas, lies, deception, and shady characters abound on this ship, and we love every minute of it trying to find out whodunit! While the cast of characters is narrow, it was certainly fun to see if I was right in discovering the guilty party… or were it parties? Jump onboard and find out. A cruise not to be missed!
I really enjoy when the author takes his characters on wonderful trips, and this one paints a beautiful picture of an Alaskan cruise. I am not sure which I enjoyed more, the murder mystery or the descriptions of beautiful scenery, whales, icebergs, and ports of call experienced on this bumpy ride.
Stormy seas, lies, deception, and shady characters abound on this ship, and we love every minute of it trying to find out whodunit! While the cast of characters is narrow, it was certainly fun to see if I was right in discovering the guilty party… or were it parties? Jump onboard and find out. A cruise not to be missed!
April 1, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, via BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mr.Hammck has done it again. Great cozy, but not predictable, mystery. Love the progression of the characters. Bailey is growing up and facing some issues with Jeremy. It’s tough when one is in college and the other is starting a career. Lou’s as crusty and funny as ever! Thelma is comfortingly herself - wouldn’t want her to change. Fen is always working and again his fun is interrupted with a hard case.
What I found interesting was the secondary plot line on the ship involving Fen, Audrey, and Lilly Mae, a new character. Just when I thought Audrey & Fen might alter their timeline -poof - Audrey left the boat with a vague reason on a note! Didn’t see that coming. Lilly Mae knows more than she’s telling. I’m hoping we find put more the next book.
I really love the dynamic between the central character's. Their communication and the way they relate is a joy to read. I feel like I visited old friends! I really need to go back to the series start to catch up on the background info.
This is only my 2nd book in the series so I’m not ready to give a 5⭐️ rating just yet.
Mr.Hammck has done it again. Great cozy, but not predictable, mystery. Love the progression of the characters. Bailey is growing up and facing some issues with Jeremy. It’s tough when one is in college and the other is starting a career. Lou’s as crusty and funny as ever! Thelma is comfortingly herself - wouldn’t want her to change. Fen is always working and again his fun is interrupted with a hard case.
What I found interesting was the secondary plot line on the ship involving Fen, Audrey, and Lilly Mae, a new character. Just when I thought Audrey & Fen might alter their timeline -poof - Audrey left the boat with a vague reason on a note! Didn’t see that coming. Lilly Mae knows more than she’s telling. I’m hoping we find put more the next book.
I really love the dynamic between the central character's. Their communication and the way they relate is a joy to read. I feel like I visited old friends! I really need to go back to the series start to catch up on the background info.
This is only my 2nd book in the series so I’m not ready to give a 5⭐️ rating just yet.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another exciting mystery with Fen Maguire! Just as Fen is about to leave on a cruise ship to Alaska where he and Bailey will be art instructors, he gets a call from Chuck and Candy about the murder of a nurse, which Fen figures will be solved when he gets back from his cruise. What he doesn’t realize is that a number of people involved in the case will also be on the cruise. Everyone seems to be on board for the cruise (pardon my pun). Including Bailey and Jeremy, as well as reporter Lou, even Audrey will be there! The story is full of breathtaking descriptions of Alaska and its glaciers. While Jeremy spends most of his time on work he brought along, Fen, Lou and Bailey get to try and solve the murder!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Murder on the Leon by Bruce Hammack is a story that you must read! You will not be able to figure out whodunit until the very end when the murderer is revealed. The plot and characters are well developed. I felt that I was on the cruise to Alaska along side of Fen, Baily and Lou. The description of the scenery brought back memories when I actually was on an Alaskan cruise. I received an advance copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. I read this one so quickly, that the pages flew by and when it was over, I wanted more by this author. You will not be disappointed. Read and Enjoy this book and this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a review copy of this book from the author with a promise of an honest review.
This is a traditional Fen style mystery although there is less of Thelma and more of Audrey. The latter will sell future books as reader seek to find out what timing goes on and whether they might work together now we know she is an investigator like Fen.
As all the series that Hammack writes, the writing is good with just enough suspense to make it interesting and with most of reveal in front of a group of people right at the end. There are new characters under suspicion in this book but the logical murderer like in most such books is not the apparent logical killer.
This is a traditional Fen style mystery although there is less of Thelma and more of Audrey. The latter will sell future books as reader seek to find out what timing goes on and whether they might work together now we know she is an investigator like Fen.
As all the series that Hammack writes, the writing is good with just enough suspense to make it interesting and with most of reveal in front of a group of people right at the end. There are new characters under suspicion in this book but the logical murderer like in most such books is not the apparent logical killer.
Review of advance copy
Excellent addition to this series. This book finds former sheriff Fen Maguire on a cruise ship to Alaska to teach an art class. He takes his protege Bailey, her boyfriend Jeremy and his reporter friend Lou. Because not only is he teaching art, he is also looking for a murderer. Two suspects of a murder on the passenger list and the sheriffs investigating cannot get enough evidence to arrest and convict either one. But, leave it to Fen and his crew to solve the case and make sure the murderer is sent to prison…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Yes! I did it. For the first time I managed to identify the killer before it was announced. I’m not proud of myself though as I missed the clues that another character wasn’t who they seemed to be. As well as painting and finding a killer, Fen moves forward with his relationship with Audrey, while leaving questions which will be answered in later books. Bailey is growing into a wonderful woman. Thelma and Lou are their usual selves, which is great. These books keep getting better and better. I don’t think I will ever tire of reading them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Another solid Fen Maguire book. Not worthy of five stars, but well worth reading.
It was enjoyable to read about the setting on an Alaska cruise. It made me want to book one.
The mystery was not as mysterious as in most of these books. I quickly figured out who the killer was. But that did not stop the book from being an enjoyable read.
The relationship troubles between Bailey, one of my favorite characters, and her boyfriend Jeremy were more of a distraction to me than they might be to some.
And I wish Fen and Audrey would progress in their relationship.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was enjoyable to read about the setting on an Alaska cruise. It made me want to book one.
The mystery was not as mysterious as in most of these books. I quickly figured out who the killer was. But that did not stop the book from being an enjoyable read.
The relationship troubles between Bailey, one of my favorite characters, and her boyfriend Jeremy were more of a distraction to me than they might be to some.
And I wish Fen and Audrey would progress in their relationship.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I so enjoy every book that Bruce Hammack has written. This one does not disappoint. The beautiful descriptions of the scenery, the whales, the glacial ice, and then the details of how he discovers all necessary clues to solve the murder.
Fen is a dreamy private investigator, former sheriff, and his buddies joining him on an Alaskan cruise (of which I am about to go on, so great preparation for me) to solve a 2 month old murder. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I applaud Bruce!
Fen is a dreamy private investigator, former sheriff, and his buddies joining him on an Alaskan cruise (of which I am about to go on, so great preparation for me) to solve a 2 month old murder. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I applaud Bruce!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow!!! All of the reveals took me by surprise!!! I certainly wasn't expecting any of that. I love Audrey. She's the best thing to happen since Bailey. And I do like Jeremy. The cruise is a nice change a venue. The author made it sound so nice I actually want to go on one. He talked about the face of the ice breaking off and sliding down, revealing something beautiful. I could see that my mind's eye and I felt that, it was very emotional. The whole book was just outstanding!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mr. Hammack is one of my favorite authors. I have read every book in this series, and each one is better than the last. "Murder on the Leon" was a perfect story for me as Fen and the gang were on a cruise while solving a mystery. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I was so happy to see a new book in this series. I strongly recommend anyone to read this book or any of the series that this author has produced.
Review of advance copy
I liked this book as much as all the others I have read of his. The descriptions of the area and of the wild life were amazing. The story was also excellent making it a page turner where I couldn't put it down. His characters always seem so real and the story so great that I felt like I was traveling with them to Alaska. I can't wait for his next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Why does Fen never really get a vacation? It was, sort of! The beautiful scenery of Alaska creates a great backdrop as Fen slowly ferrets out the clues. The reader will find themselves torn between the georgeous descriptions of scenery and activites while simultaneously trying to piece all of the clues together before Fen can get it done. Good luck with that because he has all of his friends help, and a very deep relationship with a glacier.
Review of advance copy
It's a pleasure to be back with Fen and Bailey and Jeremy. I missed the old housekeeper harping at these two in this one. Lol. She did get her two cents worth in though. I liked how Fen's art helped him think through the final phases of the murder. It was intriguing, compelling, gripping and unputdownable!!! Another great adventure with friends. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Texas murder solved on an Alaska cruise. When all the suspects are there, you might as well enjoy the scenery! Fen, the artist, can make things interesting wherever he goes. BH is a good author, writing complex mysteries. He fine-tunes the text, and his good use of the English language is impressive. You won’t find editing mistakes when you read his books. I received an ARC, and this is my voluntary review.
Review of advance copy
Fen and Bailey have a teaching assignment on an Alaskan cruise and are attempting to solve a murder mystery. Jeremy, Lou and Audrey are helping until Audrey is mysteriously sidelined and departs prior to the end of the cruise. Hopefully more will be revealed with Fen’s next challenge. I received an ARC from Book Sirens and the opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fen Maguire and his team has done it again in bringing a murderer to justice. This is a wonderful clean written mystery that is impossible to put down from page one. The setting on a cruse ship makes you feel like you are there with them. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a murder mystery.
March 25, 2026
I loved this book. Solving a murder while on cruise to Alaska can't be done right? Or did Candy and Chuck get sneaky about things?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another great Fen mystery. Was not able to guess who the murderer was. I enjoyed learning about the cruise and about Alaska. A lot of insight about artists and painting. A good read.
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March 31, 2026A Fen Maguire mystery does not disappoint. Not only is there a mystery but also a couple of plot twists that you don't expect which makes it even better.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews