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Detective Jericho #2
The Battle of Jericho
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY —“Set on Long Island, Marks’s suspenseful second crime novel featuring Det. Sgt. Neil Jericho (after 2014’s Death Hampton) contains more than a few surprises. Still reeling from the breakup of his last serious relationship—with a woman he investigated who was suspected of murdering her husband for his millions—Jericho must tackle a truly odd case. A severed foot has washed ashore from Block Island Sound, with only a partial tattoo and an unusual nail polish on its toes as clues to the owner’s identity. After the papers report the gruesome find, 16-year- old Aaron Platt takes advantage of the revelation to send the police a taunting letter (“Something’s afoot. Foul play?”), further complicating the inquiry.
Later, wealthy Sanford Richman reports his wife Ann missing, shortly before her severed foot turns up on another beach. An attractive junior officer, Maria Salazar, provides a welcome romantic distraction. Readers should be prepared for a shocking ending.”
Praise for Walter Marks’ DEATH HAMPTON — introducing Detective Jericho: “A fast-paced mystery with plenty of action and colorful characters.”
Later, wealthy Sanford Richman reports his wife Ann missing, shortly before her severed foot turns up on another beach. An attractive junior officer, Maria Salazar, provides a welcome romantic distraction. Readers should be prepared for a shocking ending.”
Praise for Walter Marks’ DEATH HAMPTON — introducing Detective Jericho: “A fast-paced mystery with plenty of action and colorful characters.”
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2015
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April 20, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/20/2019)! 🎁
March 9, 2017
I enjoyed the first book in this series, and when finished, I immediately starting reading The Battle of Jericho. There aren't really many surprises, but it's the fun light read. Characters aren't very interesting, nor original, but again, that adds to the light reading nature and works well. So, you might be wondering why I only rated this as three stars. Allow me to explain.
In this book, there is a lot of Spanish speaking characters. It's clear the author speaks both English and Spanish, but unfortunately, the author expects every reader to have the same language skills. Many times a character would say something in Spanish, but without explaining what was said, the conversation would either continue in English, or be summarized in English. When two characters who's first language is Spanish speak together, they sometimes speak in Spanish, leaving the reader disconnected, and other times then speak in bad English with occasional untranslated Spanish words thrown in.
Juggling languages can make a book feel more real, if handled well, but the author just didn't write in a way that worked, and I would skip whole paragraphs at times.
I am interested enough in the story and characters to read the next book, if I see it on sale, and I hope the author grows as a writer and learns to not make similar mistakes again.
In this book, there is a lot of Spanish speaking characters. It's clear the author speaks both English and Spanish, but unfortunately, the author expects every reader to have the same language skills. Many times a character would say something in Spanish, but without explaining what was said, the conversation would either continue in English, or be summarized in English. When two characters who's first language is Spanish speak together, they sometimes speak in Spanish, leaving the reader disconnected, and other times then speak in bad English with occasional untranslated Spanish words thrown in.
Juggling languages can make a book feel more real, if handled well, but the author just didn't write in a way that worked, and I would skip whole paragraphs at times.
I am interested enough in the story and characters to read the next book, if I see it on sale, and I hope the author grows as a writer and learns to not make similar mistakes again.
August 11, 2022
Swing and a miss for me. To be fair I didn’t finish the book but I gave it my 50 pages try. I figure if a book can’t at least intrigue me enough to keep going after 50 pages I’m out. This book lasted 57 pages then I gave up.
It just read so, generic. Some might find it an enjoyable light read, most of the reviews I read described it that way.. I did not.
The characters felt, generic and didn’t interest me. The quality of the writing was equally generic. I’m always reluctant to criticize another creators effort but for me this was uninspired and not well crafted.
Update/Part 2: I accidentally started reading this book again. I chad forgotten I’d quit it once (this time I am deleting it from my kindle) I again wasn’t feeling it but tried forcing myself to push through. I lasted 50% of the book before I just couldn’t handle the genericiness of it all. Exactly what I said last time applies.
It just read so, generic. Some might find it an enjoyable light read, most of the reviews I read described it that way.. I did not.
The characters felt, generic and didn’t interest me. The quality of the writing was equally generic. I’m always reluctant to criticize another creators effort but for me this was uninspired and not well crafted.
Update/Part 2: I accidentally started reading this book again. I chad forgotten I’d quit it once (this time I am deleting it from my kindle) I again wasn’t feeling it but tried forcing myself to push through. I lasted 50% of the book before I just couldn’t handle the genericiness of it all. Exactly what I said last time applies.
March 16, 2017
Finally....
This was a great novel with a female hero...heroine....Finally.
It was well written, no extra fluff, just enough romance, great family drama and an appropriate ending.
I'm looking forward to Mr. Marks next writings.
Read it, you'll so totally enjoy it.
This was a great novel with a female hero...heroine....Finally.
It was well written, no extra fluff, just enough romance, great family drama and an appropriate ending.
I'm looking forward to Mr. Marks next writings.
Read it, you'll so totally enjoy it.
December 17, 2017
Interesting
I thought the story was interesting enough to keep me reading, but many of the details were pretty silly. I would not recommend it for someone wanting reality in the outcome of actions, you won't find out here.
I thought the story was interesting enough to keep me reading, but many of the details were pretty silly. I would not recommend it for someone wanting reality in the outcome of actions, you won't find out here.
December 2, 2018
Great read!
The action scenes are realistic and the mystery is nice and deep. I'm disturbed that I found a lot of glee in the in the shootout . Ahh... Sweet Vengeance! Really great read with nice side story as well.
The action scenes are realistic and the mystery is nice and deep. I'm disturbed that I found a lot of glee in the in the shootout . Ahh... Sweet Vengeance! Really great read with nice side story as well.
October 4, 2021
The Battle of Jericho is book 2 in the 8 volumes “A Detective Jericho Novel” series, and the first in the series that I’ve read. As an avid reader and reviewer, my greatest pleasure comes from discovering new writers that are masters of their craft and Walter Marks is one of those masters. Well, he’s not new to writing, but he is a new writer for me in the sense that I’ve read none of his other books. Seldom does any author earn a place on my favorite author’s list after having only read one of his/her books, but Walter Marks has.
The Battle of Jericho begins with detective Jehrico being called to the beach, where a disembodied foot was discovered by a man walking his dog. A second disembodied foot soon follows. As Jericho and his partner rush to solve the mystery of the feet, they become involved with the Mexican Mafia, the Russian mafia, and a human sex trafficking gang. This was a story that had more twists and turns than a rattlesnake, more red herrings than a barrel of pickled herrings. The Battle of Jericho is a page turner. No, it’s a page burner. It had me on the edge of my seat from the first page to the last. The way this story ends blew me away. It was an ending that I didn’t expect. This is a must read for everyone who loves a fast-paced, well written and realistic mystery.
The Battle of Jericho begins with detective Jehrico being called to the beach, where a disembodied foot was discovered by a man walking his dog. A second disembodied foot soon follows. As Jericho and his partner rush to solve the mystery of the feet, they become involved with the Mexican Mafia, the Russian mafia, and a human sex trafficking gang. This was a story that had more twists and turns than a rattlesnake, more red herrings than a barrel of pickled herrings. The Battle of Jericho is a page turner. No, it’s a page burner. It had me on the edge of my seat from the first page to the last. The way this story ends blew me away. It was an ending that I didn’t expect. This is a must read for everyone who loves a fast-paced, well written and realistic mystery.
July 26, 2021
Tantalising
Another great book in the Detective Jericho series. Jericho, with the linguistic help of Maria, get to the bottom of a mysterious series of finds on the beaches in the area. Finds of dismembered feet buried in the sand. Is this a serial killer with a foot fetish? How are the Russian mob a and the Mexican Mafia involved. Readers will be astounded by the action and courage shown by Jericho and his offsider in this drama packed encounter.
Another great book in the Detective Jericho series. Jericho, with the linguistic help of Maria, get to the bottom of a mysterious series of finds on the beaches in the area. Finds of dismembered feet buried in the sand. Is this a serial killer with a foot fetish? How are the Russian mob a and the Mexican Mafia involved. Readers will be astounded by the action and courage shown by Jericho and his offsider in this drama packed encounter.
August 21, 2021
Read this book because I am from the east end of Long Island where the story takes place.
Disappointing in the silly characters who are based upon some misconceived premise.
The two main characters are shallow and thin.
The story line while based upon some fact is absurd and lacks reality.
The death of one of the main hero’s in this book is so silly that even the lead detective Jericho could care less. And he slept with her.
Won’t buy another in this series.
Disappointing in the silly characters who are based upon some misconceived premise.
The two main characters are shallow and thin.
The story line while based upon some fact is absurd and lacks reality.
The death of one of the main hero’s in this book is so silly that even the lead detective Jericho could care less. And he slept with her.
Won’t buy another in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2022
In the line of duty
The investigation of two women's death is realistically developed. The character's are a bit overdone, but this crime is one that most people have no concept of the extremes that exist. The issues are real contemporary and truthfully portrayed. This is dramatic, but believable to those who have dealt with prostitution and contemporary law enforcement with the added facet of undocumented women.
The investigation of two women's death is realistically developed. The character's are a bit overdone, but this crime is one that most people have no concept of the extremes that exist. The issues are real contemporary and truthfully portrayed. This is dramatic, but believable to those who have dealt with prostitution and contemporary law enforcement with the added facet of undocumented women.
November 19, 2023
Great read!
This book in the Detective Jericho series was very interesting. Jericho and his partner Maria make a great crime fighting team. In this second book, the partners are fighting to solve the case of a woman’s foot washing up on the beach, and also of missing young girls and a Russian Mafia group. Many twist and turns in this book, but you are going to need to read the book to see what they are.
This book in the Detective Jericho series was very interesting. Jericho and his partner Maria make a great crime fighting team. In this second book, the partners are fighting to solve the case of a woman’s foot washing up on the beach, and also of missing young girls and a Russian Mafia group. Many twist and turns in this book, but you are going to need to read the book to see what they are.
February 28, 2017
Good easy reading
Pleasantly surprised with the main character. The plot was plausible but there were too many things going on and different people involved that sometimes it was difficult to keep things straight.
Disappointed with the ending because Maria would have brought a lot to sequels.
Pleasantly surprised with the main character. The plot was plausible but there were too many things going on and different people involved that sometimes it was difficult to keep things straight.
Disappointed with the ending because Maria would have brought a lot to sequels.
March 17, 2018
Great part 2
Jericho’s back in The Hamptons solving crime. This number 2 is a great story with good characters and a great plot. Why are women’s feet surfacing up on beaches? Is it a serial killer or a copycat? When Jericho teams up with patrolman Maria Ramirez, sparks fly. Can’t wait to read more adventures with Jericho!
Jericho’s back in The Hamptons solving crime. This number 2 is a great story with good characters and a great plot. Why are women’s feet surfacing up on beaches? Is it a serial killer or a copycat? When Jericho teams up with patrolman Maria Ramirez, sparks fly. Can’t wait to read more adventures with Jericho!
December 24, 2018
Over a year has past and Detective Jericho has a new case to investigate. A severed foot has been washed ashore with only a partial tattoo and an unusual nail polish as clues to the owner's name. But just after resident Sanford Richman reports his wife Ann missing another foot appears.
An entertaining mystery
An entertaining mystery
April 21, 2021
Including the works of Dame Agatha, I really can't think of a better detective than Neil Jericho. This character just about walks out of the pages and into the room. The plot is exceptional—the events ring true, and at the same time, are surprising and entertaining. Finally, I am always, always glad to come across a writer who is articulate. A pleasure to read. I'll be back for more.
July 21, 2021
Based on current criminal activities
Hostile NY setting with hardline mobs. The Russian gangsters with their heartless and merciless tactics seem to have total control of a Long Island community. This is a good story with ample mystery from start to finish. You might or might not like the ending but the ending totally wraps up all the loose ends.
Hostile NY setting with hardline mobs. The Russian gangsters with their heartless and merciless tactics seem to have total control of a Long Island community. This is a good story with ample mystery from start to finish. You might or might not like the ending but the ending totally wraps up all the loose ends.
July 24, 2021
Good old fashion detective mystery.
Author capture old fashion mystery style murder,sex,love and suspense. Found it easy to read and follow. He does manage to keep the reader interested and intrigued in the main character’s personal problems and just like 007 girlfriends you know his will not survive the end of the book.
Author capture old fashion mystery style murder,sex,love and suspense. Found it easy to read and follow. He does manage to keep the reader interested and intrigued in the main character’s personal problems and just like 007 girlfriends you know his will not survive the end of the book.
July 28, 2021
Unusual
A detective and a rookie cop work together to solve two murders. Seems basic, but it’s anything but. Enter another case entirely, another body, and the events just start wrapping around each other. The writing is good, characters realistic, but it’s just too much. I certainly liked the book, but there are too many plots going on.
A detective and a rookie cop work together to solve two murders. Seems basic, but it’s anything but. Enter another case entirely, another body, and the events just start wrapping around each other. The writing is good, characters realistic, but it’s just too much. I certainly liked the book, but there are too many plots going on.
August 2, 2021
Greatness
Greatness!!! So many twists and turns that kept you engaged.
With multiple cases going on at once, these detectives never lost their focus or were caught short. My only regret was that Maria died. That really broke my heart. My hope for Maria was that she would become a detective after the work she did in these cases.
Greatness!!! So many twists and turns that kept you engaged.
With multiple cases going on at once, these detectives never lost their focus or were caught short. My only regret was that Maria died. That really broke my heart. My hope for Maria was that she would become a detective after the work she did in these cases.
August 24, 2021
Fast-paced, well-thought-out plot with some interesting characters, but the story never really pulled me in. The writing was mostly smooth but there was the odd jarring comment. An easy-to-follow plot even if sections were a little unbelievable.
Overall a mixed bag of good and bad. Have read worse.
Overall a mixed bag of good and bad. Have read worse.
February 7, 2017
Very good book
I could not put this book down. It is well written and spell binding. I didn't think it was a book I would like but I was certainly wrong. I will be recommending to my sister's to read.
I could not put this book down. It is well written and spell binding. I didn't think it was a book I would like but I was certainly wrong. I will be recommending to my sister's to read.
February 7, 2017
Crime is Everywhere
Jericho is a brilliant detective. His personal life however is a mess. Nonetheless he is forced to investigate two murders in this small but rich town. Lots of twists and turns.
Jericho is a brilliant detective. His personal life however is a mess. Nonetheless he is forced to investigate two murders in this small but rich town. Lots of twists and turns.
July 22, 2020
Jericho is a page turner. Love this character
I fell in love with these characters and was gasping during the last few chapters, afraid of what would happen next.
Entertaining and with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing, I highly recommend this book.
I fell in love with these characters and was gasping during the last few chapters, afraid of what would happen next.
Entertaining and with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing, I highly recommend this book.
October 16, 2020
Great police thriller
This story kept you on your toes until the end.
Loved the main characters and the threads of romance. Sad that Maria died though. Would love to read more about this main character.
This story kept you on your toes until the end.
Loved the main characters and the threads of romance. Sad that Maria died though. Would love to read more about this main character.
August 21, 2021
A good read with some interesting plot twists
Easy to read and easy to follow with two plots coming together at the end. A pity Maria doesn't get to be his long term partner ... definitely worth following the series of books.
Easy to read and easy to follow with two plots coming together at the end. A pity Maria doesn't get to be his long term partner ... definitely worth following the series of books.
April 13, 2022
A great tale
This author spins a great yarn. He has the ability to hold my interest from start to finish. It is also a roller coaster ride of emotions. So thanks again for another great book.
This author spins a great yarn. He has the ability to hold my interest from start to finish. It is also a roller coaster ride of emotions. So thanks again for another great book.
May 24, 2022
Really love the story
These characters seem more realistic than those in most mysteries. I'm reading the series in order so far I'm thrilled with the stories. I certainly hope there will be more stories coming.
These characters seem more realistic than those in most mysteries. I'm reading the series in order so far I'm thrilled with the stories. I certainly hope there will be more stories coming.
November 28, 2022
Exciting
Exciting murder mystery that takes you down several paths. Jericho is an excellent detective who mentors a patrol officer. He thinks all he needs is her language skills. But finds he needed a bit more from her. As they follow the criminals his heart heals from past harm.
Exciting murder mystery that takes you down several paths. Jericho is an excellent detective who mentors a patrol officer. He thinks all he needs is her language skills. But finds he needed a bit more from her. As they follow the criminals his heart heals from past harm.
February 15, 2024
Great Read!
This is the second book in the series and just as good as the first. Very good characters with some sadness and happiness. The books moves along quickly and you don’t want to put it down. Ready to move to the next one to see what Jericho has to solve next!
This is the second book in the series and just as good as the first. Very good characters with some sadness and happiness. The books moves along quickly and you don’t want to put it down. Ready to move to the next one to see what Jericho has to solve next!
August 3, 2025
The story seemed interesting, but I didn’t like the writing style. It jumped around a lot and didn’t seem believable. I didn’t actually finish the book, so I read a summary. I got 28% through the actual book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews