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Hank & Joyce Idaho Falls Whodunits #3
Off-Target
Not yet published
Expected 4 Sep 26A fast-paced psychological thriller packed with twists, danger, and relentless suspense.
When the Vice President of the United States chooses to visit Idaho Falls to rally support for the next election, the crowd is energized. Security is tight. Planning is meticulous.
Then the shot rings out.
The sniper’s bullet narrowly misses the Vice President—but kills the congresswoman sitting directly behind him. Panic erupts, the assassin vanishes, and what looks like a failed attempt on a national leader instantly becomes one of the most high-profile investigations in the country.
Detectives Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers are pulled in to assist the Secret Service, racing against the clock to find a sniper who planned the perfect escape. Every lead points to a professional. Every clue raises more questions.
But as the investigation deepens, a chilling truth emerges. The Vice President may not have been the target. And the murder may be related to another case.
When the Vice President of the United States chooses to visit Idaho Falls to rally support for the next election, the crowd is energized. Security is tight. Planning is meticulous.
Then the shot rings out.
The sniper’s bullet narrowly misses the Vice President—but kills the congresswoman sitting directly behind him. Panic erupts, the assassin vanishes, and what looks like a failed attempt on a national leader instantly becomes one of the most high-profile investigations in the country.
Detectives Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers are pulled in to assist the Secret Service, racing against the clock to find a sniper who planned the perfect escape. Every lead points to a professional. Every clue raises more questions.
But as the investigation deepens, a chilling truth emerges. The Vice President may not have been the target. And the murder may be related to another case.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 14, 2026
“Off Target” by D. J. Maughan is one of those thrillers that grabbed me from the prologue and never let go. The pacing is excellent from start to finish, with multiple POVs and timelines that flow seamlessly without ever becoming confusing.
The political assassination plot feels unsettlingly relevant, and the realistic setting and vivid descriptions made every scene play out like a movie in my head. The characters are easy to connect with, and I really felt their emotions throughout the story. Joyce is still my favorite character in the Idaho Falls stories. Her defiant, smart-mouthed moments had me laughing, and the banter between her and Hank was one of my favorite parts of the book. Hank is quickly becoming a favorite too. The ending was satisfying and the afterword left me with plenty to think about. It’s a fast-paced, authentic thriller that kept me turning pages until the very end.
The political assassination plot feels unsettlingly relevant, and the realistic setting and vivid descriptions made every scene play out like a movie in my head. The characters are easy to connect with, and I really felt their emotions throughout the story. Joyce is still my favorite character in the Idaho Falls stories. Her defiant, smart-mouthed moments had me laughing, and the banter between her and Hank was one of my favorite parts of the book. Hank is quickly becoming a favorite too. The ending was satisfying and the afterword left me with plenty to think about. It’s a fast-paced, authentic thriller that kept me turning pages until the very end.
July 14, 2026
This was the next book in the Idaho Falls psychological detective series….. and the best yet! There were unexpected twists and the dead bodies kept coming! Hank and Joyce and their quirky relationship make them two of my most loved detectives! Thoroughly enjoyed this story….. it grabbed me right away and held my interest. In fact, I was a beta reader and had to go back and reread for errors as I got so invested in the story I forgot to make notes🤣. If you haven’t read anything by this author, do yourself a favor and grab one of his books… always an enjoyable read that keeps you interested!!
August 20, 2026
Advance reader review- expected publication date September 4, 2026- all opinions are my own.
Another very enjoyable Hank and Joyce novel from Mr Maughan.
In this fast paced installment, the current vice president stops in Idaho Falls to announce a well-loved congresswoman as VP candidate for his expected presidential run. The rally is in her home town, in order to garner financial support for his upcoming presidential campaign. While the VP is speaking, a shot rings out. The VP sneezes at that very moment and the congresswoman (his VP candidate,) is struck and killed, instead. But was it really a missed shot? Or was the congresswoman the target the entire time?
Also a little crossover at the end with Peter Andrassay, from his other series.
Another very enjoyable Hank and Joyce novel from Mr Maughan.
In this fast paced installment, the current vice president stops in Idaho Falls to announce a well-loved congresswoman as VP candidate for his expected presidential run. The rally is in her home town, in order to garner financial support for his upcoming presidential campaign. While the VP is speaking, a shot rings out. The VP sneezes at that very moment and the congresswoman (his VP candidate,) is struck and killed, instead. But was it really a missed shot? Or was the congresswoman the target the entire time?
Also a little crossover at the end with Peter Andrassay, from his other series.
August 19, 2026
Wow - this may be my favorite book yet by D.J. Maughan (which is really tough to say, because they’re all great reads)!
The twists keep twisting until the last page, and I really enjoyed getting to see more of Hank’s personality throughout this book. This book follows multiple timelines and multiple POVs over short chapters to really help you get to know the characters and see them for what we all are…. Human. I loved the nod to Peter Andrassy in the epilogue (IYKYK), and hope this means a crossover is next with some of our favorite detectives (minus Hank since he was 3 in 2002 😉).
The twists keep twisting until the last page, and I really enjoyed getting to see more of Hank’s personality throughout this book. This book follows multiple timelines and multiple POVs over short chapters to really help you get to know the characters and see them for what we all are…. Human. I loved the nod to Peter Andrassy in the epilogue (IYKYK), and hope this means a crossover is next with some of our favorite detectives (minus Hank since he was 3 in 2002 😉).
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August 22, 2026Another great Hank and Joyce story. This one had a political twist to it, the vice President of the United States visiting with Hank and Joyce part of the security team. This one had so many fascinating characters that were interesting flawed people. The references to DJ Maughan's other novels was a lovely find while reading. Looking forward to the next edition In the Hank and Joyce series. This is a recommended read, The series keeps you hooked from page one and keeps you guessing throughout.
This was an ARC read that I am reviewing honestly and voluntarily.
This was an ARC read that I am reviewing honestly and voluntarily.
August 24, 2026
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for this ARC in return for my unbiased review.
I have already pre-ordered this on Kindle but when I saw it come up on NetGalley I jumped at the opportunity to read it early. Maughan is an auto-buy author for me.
This is the third installment in the Hank/Joyce series and I have to say I enjoyed this one the most.
Unlike the prior two installments, this focuses more on Hank and Joyce’s relationship. I really enjoyed this side of the story and I appreciate having a male/female duo without their relationship getting messy with romance.
Although I don’t follow politics regularly, I do enjoy political thrillers. This could be categorized in several ways: political thrillers, police procedural, murder mystery… one thing I’ve alway liked about D.J. Maughan is that he doesn’t pigeon-hole himself to one specific thriller trope. I’d probably consider the previous two installments more along the line of domestic thrillers.
The only criticism I’d have in here is toward the end (spoiler alert) when Hank is suggested the position with the FBI, I was left confused as to how he could be Agent Stallings partner in SLC if he lived in Idaho Falls. It was explained in the epilogue that she was suggesting he move to SLC also, but that wasn’t clear to me initially. Otherwise, solid read!
I have already pre-ordered this on Kindle but when I saw it come up on NetGalley I jumped at the opportunity to read it early. Maughan is an auto-buy author for me.
This is the third installment in the Hank/Joyce series and I have to say I enjoyed this one the most.
Unlike the prior two installments, this focuses more on Hank and Joyce’s relationship. I really enjoyed this side of the story and I appreciate having a male/female duo without their relationship getting messy with romance.
Although I don’t follow politics regularly, I do enjoy political thrillers. This could be categorized in several ways: political thrillers, police procedural, murder mystery… one thing I’ve alway liked about D.J. Maughan is that he doesn’t pigeon-hole himself to one specific thriller trope. I’d probably consider the previous two installments more along the line of domestic thrillers.
The only criticism I’d have in here is toward the end (spoiler alert) when Hank is suggested the position with the FBI, I was left confused as to how he could be Agent Stallings partner in SLC if he lived in Idaho Falls. It was explained in the epilogue that she was suggesting he move to SLC also, but that wasn’t clear to me initially. Otherwise, solid read!
August 23, 2026
Another great book from DJ!
This is described as a twisty whodunit and I’d say that’s pretty accurate! We follow Joyce and Hank from Idaho Falls again, and this time we have multiple events all happening at the same time. We’ve got politics, family, a shooting, and more.. I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll stop there.
I love that we continue to get more of the personal side stories on Hank and Joyce.. I can’t wait to learn more about what they’re up to next. DJs novels always keep me engaged and wondering what in the actual heck is going on here.. but in a great way!
This is described as a twisty whodunit and I’d say that’s pretty accurate! We follow Joyce and Hank from Idaho Falls again, and this time we have multiple events all happening at the same time. We’ve got politics, family, a shooting, and more.. I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll stop there.
I love that we continue to get more of the personal side stories on Hank and Joyce.. I can’t wait to learn more about what they’re up to next. DJs novels always keep me engaged and wondering what in the actual heck is going on here.. but in a great way!
July 22, 2026
Ohhh how to start… this was the next book for the Idaho Falls detectives Hank and Joyce and in my opinion the best one yet! There were so many twists and turns that you can’t help but be hooked. Also hands down one of my favorite authors of a “twisty whodunit”
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
> "I can't breathe. I can't take a breath. I realize I'm going to die".
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
A FAST PACED POLITICAL THRILLER THAT YOU CAN'T PUT DOWN.
During a visit to Idaho Falls, the Vice President and fellow congress people are shot at. A congresswoman dies, and the FBI assume the VP was the target. But as two local detectives, Gardener and Powers, soon realise -- the sniper didn't miss.
I don't often read political thrillers, but WOW -- Off-Target is incredibly easy to get hooked to. I managed the book in one sitting, between shoveling dinner into my mouth and holding my kindle out of the shower. Maughan's writing style is incredible, every chapter leaves you craving more of the story.
The book takes place between multiple character POVs and timelines (before the shooting and after the shooting), which can sometimes feel jarring when done badly. But, in Off-Target, every single POV gives you a smaller jigsaw piece of this mystery -- every POV change and time switch makes you realise that the story isn't as simple as it seems... And everyone has something to hide.
At 252 pages, the book is an easy read -- not to say it isn't deep or polished, it is, but it doesn't feel 250 pages -- it feels like you've been reading for an hour before you realise you're finished with the book.
Finally, onto our two main characters; Detective Hank Gardener and Detective Joyce Powers. They are written so incredibly well, their witty banter bounces off the pages and feels like real people having real conversations. They're multi-faceted, feeling a rage of emotions and having real raw reactions to what's happening to them.
You can read this book as a standalone, which I was originally planning on doing -- however, I'm tempted now to go back to his previous works to finish the rest of the series!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
A FAST PACED POLITICAL THRILLER THAT YOU CAN'T PUT DOWN.
During a visit to Idaho Falls, the Vice President and fellow congress people are shot at. A congresswoman dies, and the FBI assume the VP was the target. But as two local detectives, Gardener and Powers, soon realise -- the sniper didn't miss.
I don't often read political thrillers, but WOW -- Off-Target is incredibly easy to get hooked to. I managed the book in one sitting, between shoveling dinner into my mouth and holding my kindle out of the shower. Maughan's writing style is incredible, every chapter leaves you craving more of the story.
The book takes place between multiple character POVs and timelines (before the shooting and after the shooting), which can sometimes feel jarring when done badly. But, in Off-Target, every single POV gives you a smaller jigsaw piece of this mystery -- every POV change and time switch makes you realise that the story isn't as simple as it seems... And everyone has something to hide.
At 252 pages, the book is an easy read -- not to say it isn't deep or polished, it is, but it doesn't feel 250 pages -- it feels like you've been reading for an hour before you realise you're finished with the book.
Finally, onto our two main characters; Detective Hank Gardener and Detective Joyce Powers. They are written so incredibly well, their witty banter bounces off the pages and feels like real people having real conversations. They're multi-faceted, feeling a rage of emotions and having real raw reactions to what's happening to them.
You can read this book as a standalone, which I was originally planning on doing -- however, I'm tempted now to go back to his previous works to finish the rest of the series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Off-Target by D.J. Maughan is a very good thriller that combines suspense, intrigue, and a deep dive into the complexities of truth and deception. There were definitely some sad moments. The author sets the scene at a high-stakes public rally in Idaho Falls, where the tension is palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The author’s ability to create a vivid atmosphere pulled me in right away. The plot unfolds with the shocking assassination of a beloved political figure, and what initially appears to be a case of mistaken identity quickly morphs into a labyrinth of lies and hidden motives.
The author weaves together the investigation led by detectives Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers, portraying each character with depth and realism. Their dynamic is fun and compelling, bringing both a professional and personal aspect to the narrative. I really liked Joyce, her sense of humor, and the banter she and Hank shared. The pacing is great—each chapter leaves you wanting more. The clues are well placed, and the twists are surprising, leading to a conclusion that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.
Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or simply looking for a compelling story, Off-Target is a very good read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. I would recommend this book, and I look forward to more and to seeing what is in store for Hank.
#OffTarget #NetGalley
The author weaves together the investigation led by detectives Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers, portraying each character with depth and realism. Their dynamic is fun and compelling, bringing both a professional and personal aspect to the narrative. I really liked Joyce, her sense of humor, and the banter she and Hank shared. The pacing is great—each chapter leaves you wanting more. The clues are well placed, and the twists are surprising, leading to a conclusion that is as satisfying as it is thought-provoking.
Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or simply looking for a compelling story, Off-Target is a very good read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. I would recommend this book, and I look forward to more and to seeing what is in store for Hank.
#OffTarget #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I had the privilege of being an advanced reader for this book, and it completely sucked me in from the very first chapter. I had to stop at 40% because I had to work the next two days, but the moment I was off, I dove right back in.
This book kept me entertained, laughing, and completely engaged from beginning to end. I especially appreciated that, while the story involves political figures and members of the political world, the book itself never felt political. The focus stayed on the mystery, the characters, and the story, which I really enjoyed.
The way all of the different plots and storylines came together was genius. I kept wondering how D.J. was going to bring everything together, and I was honestly impressed with how seamlessly it all came together. The pacing and flow were so smooth, and the twists kept me guessing.
I also loved following Hank and Joyce's story, and I can't wait to see what Hank gets himself into next. This book also did a great job of showing that a family can appear perfect from the outside while hiding problems that no one else knows about.
Overall, this was an excellent whodunit with great characters, plenty of twists, and a storyline that kept me hooked. A definite five-star read, and I can't wait for the next book!
This book kept me entertained, laughing, and completely engaged from beginning to end. I especially appreciated that, while the story involves political figures and members of the political world, the book itself never felt political. The focus stayed on the mystery, the characters, and the story, which I really enjoyed.
The way all of the different plots and storylines came together was genius. I kept wondering how D.J. was going to bring everything together, and I was honestly impressed with how seamlessly it all came together. The pacing and flow were so smooth, and the twists kept me guessing.
I also loved following Hank and Joyce's story, and I can't wait to see what Hank gets himself into next. This book also did a great job of showing that a family can appear perfect from the outside while hiding problems that no one else knows about.
Overall, this was an excellent whodunit with great characters, plenty of twists, and a storyline that kept me hooked. A definite five-star read, and I can't wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy
Received as an ARC through Booksirens to read and review, this is an honest review.
Author D.J. Maughan out does his talent as a writer with Off Target as the relentless hunt for a killer that screwed up what should have been an easy kill... all it did was bring government level chaos to Idaho Falls and put Detectives Gardner and Powers working with red tape that doesn't have time for clues or theories that take attention away from nailing the son of a bitch that brought murder into politics. This white hot book beautifully moves before the shooting as readers peel apart who eaxactly is the member of congress that soulessly dies and not only the woman's views for Idaho Falls but behind the scenes jockeying to get policy passed. And in the forefront a murder of a mother that many sees as an easy case - an easy death to ignore with the death of a government official is the ticket to make a career upon. Neither Gardner or Powers push the case aside, something doesn't sit right and means finding its truth that have ties into the government shooting.
And none of it sits well when we find out why any of it happened.
Highly recommended.
Author D.J. Maughan out does his talent as a writer with Off Target as the relentless hunt for a killer that screwed up what should have been an easy kill... all it did was bring government level chaos to Idaho Falls and put Detectives Gardner and Powers working with red tape that doesn't have time for clues or theories that take attention away from nailing the son of a bitch that brought murder into politics. This white hot book beautifully moves before the shooting as readers peel apart who eaxactly is the member of congress that soulessly dies and not only the woman's views for Idaho Falls but behind the scenes jockeying to get policy passed. And in the forefront a murder of a mother that many sees as an easy case - an easy death to ignore with the death of a government official is the ticket to make a career upon. Neither Gardner or Powers push the case aside, something doesn't sit right and means finding its truth that have ties into the government shooting.
And none of it sits well when we find out why any of it happened.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Off-Target by D.J. Maughan
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The 2 partners are at it again for a mysterious case involving a possible murder. During their latest case, Hank & Joyce are on duty to help protect high up officials, including the Vice President, during a public gathering.
There are multiple timelines and murders in this whodunnit type mystery/crime thriller! Are the murders possibly tied together? Hank and Joyce have their work cut out for them!
When families are involved, people always seem to get hurt. When politics are involved there are always strong feelings.
This is such a suspenseful and intense read! Non-stop action and entertainment from beginning to end. There are lots of twists and turns and excitement throughout.
I was lucky to arc read this book and it’s phenomenal!
This is the 3rd book in the Idaho Falls Series. They can be read as standalone thrillers.
1. Idaho Fall
2. Freeing Nicole
3. Off-Target
**This book comes out September 4th and is a definite must read!!**
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The 2 partners are at it again for a mysterious case involving a possible murder. During their latest case, Hank & Joyce are on duty to help protect high up officials, including the Vice President, during a public gathering.
There are multiple timelines and murders in this whodunnit type mystery/crime thriller! Are the murders possibly tied together? Hank and Joyce have their work cut out for them!
When families are involved, people always seem to get hurt. When politics are involved there are always strong feelings.
This is such a suspenseful and intense read! Non-stop action and entertainment from beginning to end. There are lots of twists and turns and excitement throughout.
I was lucky to arc read this book and it’s phenomenal!
This is the 3rd book in the Idaho Falls Series. They can be read as standalone thrillers.
1. Idaho Fall
2. Freeing Nicole
3. Off-Target
**This book comes out September 4th and is a definite must read!!**
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was the next book in the Idaho Falls series and I think it was his best! Reading it was like seeing old friends in Hank and Joyce. I love Joyce’s smart mouth and quick comebacks. The camaraderie between Hank and Joyce is perfect and kept me entertained. The way D J Maughan writes because I easily become invested and that’s where I want to stay until the end. The pacing is excellent and everything flows smoothly. I love the multiple POV.
The political premise of this story is relevant in today’s world. There were so many twists that had me questioning everyone and their motives. It all came together at the end and this girl who rarely cries got choked up at the end. I would love to see more Hank and Joyce! This was a solid 5⭐️’s for me! I will recommend this book to everyone.
Thank you to D J Maughan for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily
The political premise of this story is relevant in today’s world. There were so many twists that had me questioning everyone and their motives. It all came together at the end and this girl who rarely cries got choked up at the end. I would love to see more Hank and Joyce! This was a solid 5⭐️’s for me! I will recommend this book to everyone.
Thank you to D J Maughan for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy
This was a gutwrenching story about a family and the mob. It's oil and water!! Family and mob don't mix. All you get is heartbreak, disappointment, and desolation! The mob has money and power, and they get it through blood and ruthless greed. Nothing gets in their way to greed and ambition. They have the power to give or take it away . No one wins in these stories. There are sacrifices to pay for the greed. It's a race to inhumanity and greed to get to the top of the food chain. Do you have the stomach and lack of a heart for this position? This was a game of power and putting family against greed. Who wins- nobody!!! The. mob or politics are sure to make strange bedfellows. This was a bit difficult to read in light of our current situation in politics today! A compelling read.
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Y'all, a sweltering political rally erupts into chaos when a sniper’s shot rings out from above, leaving one shocking death—and the unsettling possibility that the “wrong” victim was the intended target. When Detectives Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers connect the shooting to another suspicious death, the case unravels into a web of secrets, suspects, and lies.
Hank and Joyce are a strong investigative duo—sharp, relentless, and quick to spot the cracks in every polished story. DJ Maughan’s writing is crisp and cinematic, with tension that makes the rifle shot feel immediate and the crowd’s panic visceral. Fast-paced, intelligent, and thoroughly deceptive, this thriller keeps the suspense locked in until the final shot. Political thrillers don’t get much sharper than this.
Hank and Joyce are a strong investigative duo—sharp, relentless, and quick to spot the cracks in every polished story. DJ Maughan’s writing is crisp and cinematic, with tension that makes the rifle shot feel immediate and the crowd’s panic visceral. Fast-paced, intelligent, and thoroughly deceptive, this thriller keeps the suspense locked in until the final shot. Political thrillers don’t get much sharper than this.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Off- target was such a well written book. I loved to learn about all of the character perspectives on how they really felt about each other, you don't really get to experience that in a lot of books. The concept around the book was interesting. It really displays the corruption that the government can portray, and shows how far someone will go despite their morals to become a government figure. When I found out that I was going to read another book with Joyce and Hank as the detectives, I got super excited from guessing the song, to the hilarious banter, and not caring what is right or wrong when your main objection is to bring down the quote on quote “bad guy or girl”. This is my 7th book read by D.J. Maughan and never disappoint to give an action packed experience.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a book with a timely plot and a whodunit that effectively fits into the news headlines of today. I found this story fascinating and engaging. For me personally, I do not like for books to jump around on a timeline. I have trouble understanding the flow of the story. Apart from that, I felt this book was a great read. I don’t like to give spoilers in a review, so suffice it to say the character development is excellent and the story is fast paced to a satisfying conclusion. As always, Joyce and Hank are terrific with their banter and partnership. At this point, they are like old friends I enjoy spending some time with… However, the bittersweet ending leaves me wondering what the future will bring. DJ Maughan is my fav and I highly recommend his books. Enjoy!
Review of advance copy
A huge thanks to BookSirens for this ARC from one of my favourite authors! And Oh My Goodness, I have missed Hank and Joyce and this was such a great fix!
I wouldn't usually go for a thriller with a political theme, but since it was written by D.J. Maughan, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, and he did not disappoint! Brilliantly crafted. Plot twists and fantastic characters that keep you guessing while weaving a story together in a way that makes you sad when it is over.
But that teaser possibility at the end, and the Afterword from the author...oh yes, sir...I WILL be sending an email with my personal opinion on the question raised about what happens next! Woohoo!
I wouldn't usually go for a thriller with a political theme, but since it was written by D.J. Maughan, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it, and he did not disappoint! Brilliantly crafted. Plot twists and fantastic characters that keep you guessing while weaving a story together in a way that makes you sad when it is over.
But that teaser possibility at the end, and the Afterword from the author...oh yes, sir...I WILL be sending an email with my personal opinion on the question raised about what happens next! Woohoo!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another 5 star read by DJ Maughan!! I love following Hank and Joyce. The banter is chefs kiss every time. This story follows detectives Hank and Joyce to find the culprit of a triple murder. An unsuspecting housewife, her struggling daughter who is in a neighboring state and a congresswoman all end up dead. But what do they all have in common?? It seems like they don’t have anything tying them all together until the detectives dig deeper, uncover secrets and reveal possible motives. This book had me guessing all the way up to the end. And even when I thought I had The who figured out, the why still stumped me! Such an amazing read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hank and Joyce are back in the 3rd book of the Idaho Falls Series When the Vice President is scheduled to speak at a political rally in Idaho Falls, Hank and Joyce are selected to be part of the security for the event. As the event unfolds, a gunshot rings out, missing the Vice President but killing Idaho Falls’ own Congresswoman. The search for the shooter that follows is another twisty turn filled whodunnit as Hank and Joyce do their jobs. There are several suspects but the solution will come at you from left field. Add to that, the big changes to come for Hank and Joyce are part of the suspense. As Joyce would say, “don’t make it weird.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Off Target is another excellent Hank and Joyce novel from D.J. Maughan! I went in a little unsure of what to expect, but Off-Target delivered everything I’ve come to love about these Idaho Falls detectives. The banter between Hank and Joyce continues, the twists were great, and everything came together in a really satisfying way at the end.
I especially liked the Peter Andrassy connection—it felt like a fun bonus/Easter egg for readers of both series. I’m already looking forward to seeing where Hank’s story goes next, and I hope Joyce remains a big part of it.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
I especially liked the Peter Andrassy connection—it felt like a fun bonus/Easter egg for readers of both series. I’m already looking forward to seeing where Hank’s story goes next, and I hope Joyce remains a big part of it.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Detectives Hank Gardner and Joyce Powers are on the case of a congresswoman, but who was the target, her or the congressman next to her.
While called into a house where a housewife had fallen down the stairs backwards while carrying her washing upstairs, police said it's an accident but the detectives think it's murder and her husband is on a plane returning home so it wasn't him.
The two stories interwind great.
The chapters jump around a lot which was confusing at times.
I do love the series, Hank and Joyce are brilliant together.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC and I give my honest review
While called into a house where a housewife had fallen down the stairs backwards while carrying her washing upstairs, police said it's an accident but the detectives think it's murder and her husband is on a plane returning home so it wasn't him.
The two stories interwind great.
The chapters jump around a lot which was confusing at times.
I do love the series, Hank and Joyce are brilliant together.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC and I give my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
DJ Maughan asked me to read Off-Target as an ARC reader, and since I'm on his street team, I happily obliged.
Off-Target was a quick read about the shooting of a congresswoman at a rally in Idaho Falls where 2 detectives from DJ's other books are based.
If you like political intrigue, whodunits, and crime novels, Off-Target is the perfect combination of all. You don't need to have read other Hank & Joyce novels to appreciate this one - DJ does a fine job of writing a suspenseful, standalone novel.
As always, I look forward to his next novel!
Off-Target was a quick read about the shooting of a congresswoman at a rally in Idaho Falls where 2 detectives from DJ's other books are based.
If you like political intrigue, whodunits, and crime novels, Off-Target is the perfect combination of all. You don't need to have read other Hank & Joyce novels to appreciate this one - DJ does a fine job of writing a suspenseful, standalone novel.
As always, I look forward to his next novel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was an ARC reader for this book & holy sh*t!!! It was a page turner, fast paced thriller. I love Hank & Joyce! These two detectives have been partners for a couple books, hank is the more serious detective but Joyce is the funny & hard detective. Like good cop bad cop. This book keeps you involved & interested since page one! And the little hint at the end tells me Hank will be back soon & partnering with a beloved character 🤭 Definitely run & grab it once it’s released. This author NEVER disappoints!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this may be one of my favorite books by DJ thus far. I am happy that Hank and Joyce were back in this story. It made me feel like I was reading a James Patterson novel with the way it was written.
A little detective work, the fbi, etc. A wife and congresswoman end up dead. Who is responsible for their deaths? Are they connected? Just when I thought I had it figured out, I knew I had to be wrong because I made up my mind so early in the book. So much deception and lies in this story. Pick this one up, you won’t be disappointed.
A little detective work, the fbi, etc. A wife and congresswoman end up dead. Who is responsible for their deaths? Are they connected? Just when I thought I had it figured out, I knew I had to be wrong because I made up my mind so early in the book. So much deception and lies in this story. Pick this one up, you won’t be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a fast paced read. I started late last night, did nothing but read this book today.
About half way through I kind of knew who, I didn't know why. The characters and the days before, during and after, the breakdown of their activities help drive the story to the conclusion.
I also read the epilogue with great interest. The author once again, took stories from the headlines and made his storytelling very current. If you like suspenseful shady characters (I love them) this book is for you!
About half way through I kind of knew who, I didn't know why. The characters and the days before, during and after, the breakdown of their activities help drive the story to the conclusion.
I also read the epilogue with great interest. The author once again, took stories from the headlines and made his storytelling very current. If you like suspenseful shady characters (I love them) this book is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was amazing as always!!! We get another Hank and Joyce story where they investigate the murder of a congresswoman and more since the bodies keep adding up. The twist and turns all come to a spiraling end with Joyce's retirement and she leaves this story with a bang. Thank you D.J Maughan for letting me read your work early. I always know that im in for a treat reading your books and cant wait to see what becomes of Hank. Loved the part about Peter Andrassy being mentioned in the book. If you know you know! Great job
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Off-Target” pulled me in quickly and kept the tension building as Hank Gardener and Joyce Powers dig deeper into a case where nothing is quite what it seems. The deception, twists, and growing suspicion made this one hard to put down.
The friendly, comical banter between Gardener and Powers is fantastic. Their dynamic adds just the right touch of humour to the darker moments.
A gripping, clever mystery that kept me guessing until the very end.
The friendly, comical banter between Gardener and Powers is fantastic. Their dynamic adds just the right touch of humour to the darker moments.
A gripping, clever mystery that kept me guessing until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, this book was so good! D.J. Maughan never disappoints.
There are short chapters with lots of drama that make his books quick reads that are hard to put down. The mystery is so well wrapped up that there are no loose ends. And there is always that one chapter that "hits you in the feels".
I love the characters, the banter between detectives Joyce and Hank is great. It was nice to see a nod to Peter Andrassy, I love a good crossover. I can't wait to see what's next for them all.
There are short chapters with lots of drama that make his books quick reads that are hard to put down. The mystery is so well wrapped up that there are no loose ends. And there is always that one chapter that "hits you in the feels".
I love the characters, the banter between detectives Joyce and Hank is great. It was nice to see a nod to Peter Andrassy, I love a good crossover. I can't wait to see what's next for them all.
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