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DCI Logan Crime Thrillers #22
Better the Devil
After years behind bars, former drug kingpin Bosco Maximuke is back on the streets, insisting he’s turned over a new leaf, and determined to win back the trust of his daughter.
But when members of the criminal network that replaced him start turning up dead, suspicion falls squarely on Bosco. With old enemies closing in, and a trail of bodies stretching from Inverness to the most remote corners of the Highlands, one thing is clear - someone is settling scores.
And then Bosco does the unthinkable. He asks DCI Jack Logan for help.
Logan wants nothing to do with him. Their history is bloody, bitter, and far from buried. But complicating matters is the fact that Bosco’s teenage daughter, Olivia, now lives under Logan’s roof.
With pressure mounting and the line between justice and revenge growing ever thinner, Logan must navigate a case where nothing is as it seems, and where trusting the wrong person could cost him everything.
Because in the Highlands, the devil you know might just be the most dangerous of all…BETTER THE DEVIL is the 22nd book in the internationally bestselling DCI Jack Logan series, from multi-award-winning Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.
But when members of the criminal network that replaced him start turning up dead, suspicion falls squarely on Bosco. With old enemies closing in, and a trail of bodies stretching from Inverness to the most remote corners of the Highlands, one thing is clear - someone is settling scores.
And then Bosco does the unthinkable. He asks DCI Jack Logan for help.
Logan wants nothing to do with him. Their history is bloody, bitter, and far from buried. But complicating matters is the fact that Bosco’s teenage daughter, Olivia, now lives under Logan’s roof.
With pressure mounting and the line between justice and revenge growing ever thinner, Logan must navigate a case where nothing is as it seems, and where trusting the wrong person could cost him everything.
Because in the Highlands, the devil you know might just be the most dangerous of all…BETTER THE DEVIL is the 22nd book in the internationally bestselling DCI Jack Logan series, from multi-award-winning Scottish crime fiction author, JD Kirk.
11 pages, Audible Audio
Published July 21, 2026
About the author
J.D. Kirk
54 books1,987 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
August 1, 2026
5 Stars
Another great novel about the grueling cases of DCI Jack Logan.
A neighbourhood watchman discovers a dead body in a car.
If you've read all the books Bosco gets out of jail early which makes Logan suspicious he might be involved in the murder.
Logan and his girlfriend Shoana had previously taken in Boscos daughter Olivia.
The murder leads Logan to a very wealthy woman who says she and her late husband made their money from bitcoin which Logan knows nothing about.
Lots of details in this book on Jack Logan and his colleagues.
All stories are set in the Scottish Highlands and the writing is excellent.
Another great novel about the grueling cases of DCI Jack Logan.
A neighbourhood watchman discovers a dead body in a car.
If you've read all the books Bosco gets out of jail early which makes Logan suspicious he might be involved in the murder.
Logan and his girlfriend Shoana had previously taken in Boscos daughter Olivia.
The murder leads Logan to a very wealthy woman who says she and her late husband made their money from bitcoin which Logan knows nothing about.
Lots of details in this book on Jack Logan and his colleagues.
All stories are set in the Scottish Highlands and the writing is excellent.
July 30, 2026
Absolutely bloody brilliant!
All the team are back in action solving the murders of a couple of locals who may or may not be connected to old rival Bosch Maximuke. It was fantastic to have Ben Ford reappear and the new DCI Reeve - well he can have his own series!
The absolute best part was the narration by Angus King! He could read legislation to me and I’d listen to every word.
Another excellent instalment in my favourite series.
All the team are back in action solving the murders of a couple of locals who may or may not be connected to old rival Bosch Maximuke. It was fantastic to have Ben Ford reappear and the new DCI Reeve - well he can have his own series!
The absolute best part was the narration by Angus King! He could read legislation to me and I’d listen to every word.
Another excellent instalment in my favourite series.
August 2, 2026
I was so excited to resd this that I finished it in one sitting and now I have to wait impatiently for the next one 🥲
August 24, 2026
4.0 / 5.0
Proper solid police procedural, no major complaints did what it said on the tin. I liked how the plot was not obvious, created enough confusion that it wasn’t shockingly obvious to everyone. It’s even got me staying up late to finish this book because I so desperately wanted to get to the end and re what would happen. I like the natural balance of office banter, natural team dynamics and the ability to cut to different plots of the book without a break in the pacing or quality of the book. I like how we get natural cuts to the team’s development and progression so it’s not just Jack alone but equally his team which is nice to see some recognition and builds into the plot very well. A solid series, solid book to read and to get into. Although it is a struggle to read this book if you haven’t read the previous books.
After years behind bars, Bosco Maximuke is back on the street and he’s turned over a new leaf. But when members of the criminal network that replaced him start turning up dead, suspicion starts to fall on Bosco as the one responsible even though he protests his innocence, he asks Jack Logan for help. However Logan wants nothing more to help, it makes things complex when Bosco’s daughter is living under Logan’s roof. With pressure mounting and the line between revenge and justice growing even thinner, Logan must navigate a case where nothing is as it seems and whether trusting the wrong person could cost him everything….
Overall solid read, interested to see the dynamics of Jack as he balances personal to professional life. I like how it opens up an opportunity to continue the series even more! Keeping my eyes peeled for the next book!
Proper solid police procedural, no major complaints did what it said on the tin. I liked how the plot was not obvious, created enough confusion that it wasn’t shockingly obvious to everyone. It’s even got me staying up late to finish this book because I so desperately wanted to get to the end and re what would happen. I like the natural balance of office banter, natural team dynamics and the ability to cut to different plots of the book without a break in the pacing or quality of the book. I like how we get natural cuts to the team’s development and progression so it’s not just Jack alone but equally his team which is nice to see some recognition and builds into the plot very well. A solid series, solid book to read and to get into. Although it is a struggle to read this book if you haven’t read the previous books.
After years behind bars, Bosco Maximuke is back on the street and he’s turned over a new leaf. But when members of the criminal network that replaced him start turning up dead, suspicion starts to fall on Bosco as the one responsible even though he protests his innocence, he asks Jack Logan for help. However Logan wants nothing more to help, it makes things complex when Bosco’s daughter is living under Logan’s roof. With pressure mounting and the line between revenge and justice growing even thinner, Logan must navigate a case where nothing is as it seems and whether trusting the wrong person could cost him everything….
Overall solid read, interested to see the dynamics of Jack as he balances personal to professional life. I like how it opens up an opportunity to continue the series even more! Keeping my eyes peeled for the next book!
July 31, 2026
Better the Devil
Here we w again JD Kirk loved loved this book only thing is what do I read now. Will re-read this again just in case I missed anything . I hope I don't have to wait to long for next in series
Here we w again JD Kirk loved loved this book only thing is what do I read now. Will re-read this again just in case I missed anything . I hope I don't have to wait to long for next in series
July 31, 2026
Absolutely Brilliant. Can’t wait for the next one in this series.
September 11, 2026
Jack and the team are back 🙌
August 8, 2026
Audio version of this book 📕- another great addition to the series!
August 2, 2026
A must read. Best book I have read this year.
Bloody brilliant as expected. Lots of fun and serious polis actions.
Love Jack, I love them all they are such great characters. Fab team. No Hoon to laugh out loud at. Hope he's in the next book. Only sorry I finished it.
Can't wait for 23. Please don't make us wait so long.
Bloody brilliant as expected. Lots of fun and serious polis actions.
Love Jack, I love them all they are such great characters. Fab team. No Hoon to laugh out loud at. Hope he's in the next book. Only sorry I finished it.
Can't wait for 23. Please don't make us wait so long.
August 14, 2026
3.5 stars
Another good instalment in the DCI Logan series. These books have become such easy, enjoyable reads for me; a good crime story, plenty of humour and, underneath all the chaos, a surprising amount of heart.
For me, the best part of this series continues to be Logan and his team. Their relationships feel established now, and the banter genuinely makes me laugh rather than feeling like humour has been forced into a crime novel. There’s also something oddly heartwarming about the whole group and how they’ve developed over the series.
The mystery itself kept me interested, although I did work out where it was heading fairly early on, so it didn’t have quite the same pull or surprises as some of the previous books. I also found myself a little frustrated with Logan at times, particularly with some of his decisions away from the investigation. I think I expected a bit more from him by this point in the series.
There are some great character moments though, and I particularly enjoyed the introduction of DCI Nathan Reeve. He’s an interesting addition and I’d happily see more of him in future books.
Not my favourite DCI Logan book, but still a really enjoyable read. At this point, spending time with Logan and the team is half the appeal anyway. Funny, entertaining and strangely comforting for a series involving quite so many murders!
Another good instalment in the DCI Logan series. These books have become such easy, enjoyable reads for me; a good crime story, plenty of humour and, underneath all the chaos, a surprising amount of heart.
For me, the best part of this series continues to be Logan and his team. Their relationships feel established now, and the banter genuinely makes me laugh rather than feeling like humour has been forced into a crime novel. There’s also something oddly heartwarming about the whole group and how they’ve developed over the series.
The mystery itself kept me interested, although I did work out where it was heading fairly early on, so it didn’t have quite the same pull or surprises as some of the previous books. I also found myself a little frustrated with Logan at times, particularly with some of his decisions away from the investigation. I think I expected a bit more from him by this point in the series.
There are some great character moments though, and I particularly enjoyed the introduction of DCI Nathan Reeve. He’s an interesting addition and I’d happily see more of him in future books.
Not my favourite DCI Logan book, but still a really enjoyable read. At this point, spending time with Logan and the team is half the appeal anyway. Funny, entertaining and strangely comforting for a series involving quite so many murders!
August 1, 2026
What a twisted web...
This time with newly appointed DI Kalid, and soon to be interviewed DC's Bell and Neish for the vacant sergeants position, the team are thrown into 2 murders that seem to be connected but finding all the evidence is hard, we're introduced to a new DCI who seems more friendly than Jack would like, Ben helping bed Hamza into his new job, and problems with Bosco Maximuke as well.
All the things needed for a fantastic read 📚
This time with newly appointed DI Kalid, and soon to be interviewed DC's Bell and Neish for the vacant sergeants position, the team are thrown into 2 murders that seem to be connected but finding all the evidence is hard, we're introduced to a new DCI who seems more friendly than Jack would like, Ben helping bed Hamza into his new job, and problems with Bosco Maximuke as well.
All the things needed for a fantastic read 📚
August 9, 2026
Waited months for this
Waited a long time for this book... and it didnt dissapoint, loved it. Cant wait for the next book to be released
Waited a long time for this book... and it didnt dissapoint, loved it. Cant wait for the next book to be released
September 2, 2026
I really enjoy J.D. Kirk's detective Jack Logan I feel as if I have got to know him. Hope there are many more books to come.
August 2, 2026
Wow book 22 and it was another brilliant, fascinating, funny, witty DCI Jack Logan thriller. Enjoyed every single second from start to end.
My absolute favourite crime detective series by far. Truly if you haven't listened to the Audiobooks to this series, it is a MUST.
Angus King makes the characters come to life. Makes the entire series just even funnier. Especially, with how Angus has a voice for each one of them. The difference between Jack and Tyler's voice is daylight.
(Also does the Bob Hoons series by JD Kirk and it's a cracker. Anyone who has read this series. Bob hoon out on his own is hilarious, another Angus King audiobook speciality)
But this book was another master piece by JD Kirk and never disappoints.
It was absolutely wonderful to have Ben back for this book. I was truly sad when the book came to an end and can't wait for the next installment!
Oh and congrats to the new DS___________!
(Definitely no spoilers here)
My absolute favourite crime detective series by far. Truly if you haven't listened to the Audiobooks to this series, it is a MUST.
Angus King makes the characters come to life. Makes the entire series just even funnier. Especially, with how Angus has a voice for each one of them. The difference between Jack and Tyler's voice is daylight.
(Also does the Bob Hoons series by JD Kirk and it's a cracker. Anyone who has read this series. Bob hoon out on his own is hilarious, another Angus King audiobook speciality)
But this book was another master piece by JD Kirk and never disappoints.
It was absolutely wonderful to have Ben back for this book. I was truly sad when the book came to an end and can't wait for the next installment!
Oh and congrats to the new DS___________!
(Definitely no spoilers here)
August 1, 2026
What a shame this book just came out in audio format and I've already finished it. I do like a crime novel where I can laugh out loud. Are there murders? Yes. Are some of them a bit gruesome? Yes, but not in too much detail. Are there lots of biscuits and cups of tea involved in solving the case? Of course. But the team is so delightful and the banter so fun that even murders can be fun. I love this series and the fellow who narrates the books, Angus King. And there is some swearing, but it is Scottish swearing, so it doesn't really count.
August 3, 2026
Another fabulous read in the series. Love the characters and always the humour throughout, so much so that at one point I was laughing out loud. A bit emotional at the end. Loved it and can't wait for the next one.
July 30, 2026
Better the Devil by J D Kirk is book 22 in the DCI Logan crime series and this book is possibly one of the best stories yet. There are murders, drugs, early release and grave misunderstandings.
The full police team are heavily involved in the murders, the early unexpected release of a past villain will lead to misunderstandings, that may have severe repercussions for the future. New police duties and interviews for a career boost will also feature.
Humour, laughter and tears all feature in this latest episode of DCI Logan and his murder team.
Highly recommended
The full police team are heavily involved in the murders, the early unexpected release of a past villain will lead to misunderstandings, that may have severe repercussions for the future. New police duties and interviews for a career boost will also feature.
Humour, laughter and tears all feature in this latest episode of DCI Logan and his murder team.
Highly recommended
August 3, 2026
The Best
The DCI Logan Books go on and on. Brilliant Stories. Brilliant Characters and Laugh out Loud moments. JD Kirk is a Legend
The DCI Logan Books go on and on. Brilliant Stories. Brilliant Characters and Laugh out Loud moments. JD Kirk is a Legend
August 3, 2026
Good story
If you are new to the DCI Logan series, go back to the start. This is a very good series and best appreciated by beginning at the beginning.
If you are new to the DCI Logan series, go back to the start. This is a very good series and best appreciated by beginning at the beginning.
August 6, 2026
Another great crime thriller from JD Kirk.
August 1, 2026
better the Devil
Absolutely Amaz latest DcI Logan book. Laughed out loud and cried too. Honestly cant wait till the new book. Written beautifully and you feel as though you are doing the work with the detectives
Absolutely Amaz latest DcI Logan book. Laughed out loud and cried too. Honestly cant wait till the new book. Written beautifully and you feel as though you are doing the work with the detectives
August 2, 2026
Well what can I say I follow this writer and have read all of Jack Logan/hoon books there are bits I laugh at just love the stories hope there’s more on the way
August 1, 2026
Loved this latest book of Logan and the team. Tyler and his under the sea bit had me laughing until tears came. So good... hope its not too long til the next one comes
August 1, 2026
Laugh out loud and holding my breath- I forgot the roller coaster ride that is DCI Jack Logan and the team.
August 1, 2026
brilliant
Brilliant and hilarious as always , absolutely love these books , great story , lots of twists definitely recommend all the DCI Logan books , but did miss Hoon
Brilliant and hilarious as always , absolutely love these books , great story , lots of twists definitely recommend all the DCI Logan books , but did miss Hoon
August 4, 2026
Absolutely love these books but I hope the next one is coming soon 😬
July 30, 2026
Hooked from the first page, again!
It's the characters and how they interact as well as a story that keeps you guessing till the end. You'll laugh, sigh and not quite cry. The books just keep getting better.
It's the characters and how they interact as well as a story that keeps you guessing till the end. You'll laugh, sigh and not quite cry. The books just keep getting better.
September 17, 2026
Still loving Jack and the gang.
July 29, 2026
I almost dropped this a star because the ending left unanswered questions but this was a Logan book and Angus King narrated the audiobook so it was the full five star book I have come to enjoy. But waiting is going to be tough.
September 2, 2026
J D Kirk certainly writes to a formula with the Jack Logan investigations but I love it. Always a twist at the end. A pleasant read that keeps you guessing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews