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Jesse Stone #15
Robert B. Parker's Debt to Pay
All is quiet in Paradise, except for a spate of innocuous vandalism. Good thing, too, because Jesse Stone is preoccupied with the women in his life, both past and present. As his ex-wife, Jenn, is about to marry a Dallas real-estate tycoon, Jesse isn’t too sure his relationship with former FBI agent Diana Evans is built to last. But those concerns get put on the back burner when a major Boston crime boss is brutally murdered. Despite all evidence to the contrary, Jesse suspects it’s the work of Mr. Peepers, a psychotic assassin who has caused trouble for Jesse in the past.
Peepers has long promised revenge against the Mob, Jesse, and Suit for their roles in foiling one of his hits—and against Jenn as well. And though Jesse and Jenn have long parted ways, Jesse still feels responsible for her safety. Jesse and Diana head to Dallas for the wedding and, along with the tycoon’s security team, try to stop Peepers before the bill comes due. With Peepers toying with the authorities as to when and where he’ll strike, Jesse is up against the wall. Still, there’s a debt to pay and blood to be spilled to satisfy it. But whose blood, and just how much?
Peepers has long promised revenge against the Mob, Jesse, and Suit for their roles in foiling one of his hits—and against Jenn as well. And though Jesse and Jenn have long parted ways, Jesse still feels responsible for her safety. Jesse and Diana head to Dallas for the wedding and, along with the tycoon’s security team, try to stop Peepers before the bill comes due. With Peepers toying with the authorities as to when and where he’ll strike, Jesse is up against the wall. Still, there’s a debt to pay and blood to be spilled to satisfy it. But whose blood, and just how much?
352 pages, Hardcover
First published September 13, 2016
1547 people are currently reading
1834 people want to read
About the author
Reed Farrel Coleman
166 books747 followersaka Tony Spinosa
Reed Farrel Coleman’s love of storytelling originated on the streets of Brooklyn and was nurtured by his teachers, friends, and family.
A New York Times bestseller called a hard-boiled poet by NPR’s Maureen Corrigan and the “noir poet laureate” in the Huffington Post, Reed is the author of novels, including Robert B. Parker's Jesse Stone series, the acclaimed Moe Prager series, short stories, and poetry.
Reed is a three-time Edgar Award nominee in three different categories—Best Novel, Best Paperback Original, Best Short Story—and a three-time recipient of the Shamus Award for Best PI Novel of the Year. He has also won the Audie, Macavity, Barry, and Anthony Awards.
A former executive vice president of Mystery Writers of America, Reed is an adjunct instructor of English at Hofstra University and a founding member of MWA University. Brooklyn born and raised, he now lives with his family–including cats Cleo and Knish–in Suffolk County on Long Island.
Reed Farrel Coleman’s love of storytelling originated on the streets of Brooklyn and was nurtured by his teachers, friends, and family.
A New York Times bestseller called a hard-boiled poet by NPR’s Maureen Corrigan and the “noir poet laureate” in the Huffington Post, Reed is the author of novels, including Robert B. Parker's Jesse Stone series, the acclaimed Moe Prager series, short stories, and poetry.
Reed is a three-time Edgar Award nominee in three different categories—Best Novel, Best Paperback Original, Best Short Story—and a three-time recipient of the Shamus Award for Best PI Novel of the Year. He has also won the Audie, Macavity, Barry, and Anthony Awards.
A former executive vice president of Mystery Writers of America, Reed is an adjunct instructor of English at Hofstra University and a founding member of MWA University. Brooklyn born and raised, he now lives with his family–including cats Cleo and Knish–in Suffolk County on Long Island.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 472 reviews
September 18, 2016
Let me get this out of the way up front: I'm giving this book 4 stars because of its interesting, fast-paced plot. But when it comes to character development in the style of the late, great Robert B. Parker, I'd be hard-pressed to give it 3. Conclusion? If you haven't read Parker's books featuring small-town police chief Jesse Stone (this is the 15th, I believe), it's likely you'll enjoy this. If, like me, you've been a Parker fan for many years, maybe not so much.
This book does stand on its own well, although I'm sure I got more out of it because I've read others. And therein, I think, lies part of the problem: Knowing the characters so well from Parker's writing makes it harder to accept them as written by a "new" voice. But that aside, the voices here seem, well, bland. To be sure, Jesse is older and, if possible, mellower; he's pretty much settled into his role in the small community of Paradise, stopped drinking, come to terms with his co-dependent relationship with former wife Jenn (who's about to get remarried), and enjoying the heck out of a woman he's pretty sure he loves more than his ex. Gone, though, is his short, droll style of conversation - replaced by more lengthy ruminations that threaten to bog down the progress of the story.
Ah, but on to the plot - and it's a killer right from the git-go. As Jesse enjoys quality time with his love, former FBI agent Diana Evans, the worst thing going on in Paradise is that some crazy is running around shooting out tires. But then comes the unseemly demise of a Boston crime boss with whom Jesse has enjoyed a tenuous friendship - and the tide turns. It was murder, Jesse believes - done by a never-caught psycho the police have dubbed Mr. Peepers because he resembles Wally Cox, star of the old TV show of the same name that ran from 1952 to 1955. Not all that long ago, the criminal caused major trauma to Jesse and his deputy, Luther "Suit" Simpson. When they prevented one of his murder attempts, Mr. Peepers set his sights on getting even.
Needless to say, Jesse will do whatever it takes to bring him in dead or alive, and the chase leads to Dallas. That's where Jenn soon will wed her filthy rich fiance (Mr. Peepers, you see, has put Jesse, and everyone he works with and has ever loved, on his hit list, and apparently Jenn's name is at the top). But in Jesse's world, things are never quite that simple; will he be able to get his man before the man gets his revenge? I'm not about to tell - read it and find out for yourself.
This book does stand on its own well, although I'm sure I got more out of it because I've read others. And therein, I think, lies part of the problem: Knowing the characters so well from Parker's writing makes it harder to accept them as written by a "new" voice. But that aside, the voices here seem, well, bland. To be sure, Jesse is older and, if possible, mellower; he's pretty much settled into his role in the small community of Paradise, stopped drinking, come to terms with his co-dependent relationship with former wife Jenn (who's about to get remarried), and enjoying the heck out of a woman he's pretty sure he loves more than his ex. Gone, though, is his short, droll style of conversation - replaced by more lengthy ruminations that threaten to bog down the progress of the story.
Ah, but on to the plot - and it's a killer right from the git-go. As Jesse enjoys quality time with his love, former FBI agent Diana Evans, the worst thing going on in Paradise is that some crazy is running around shooting out tires. But then comes the unseemly demise of a Boston crime boss with whom Jesse has enjoyed a tenuous friendship - and the tide turns. It was murder, Jesse believes - done by a never-caught psycho the police have dubbed Mr. Peepers because he resembles Wally Cox, star of the old TV show of the same name that ran from 1952 to 1955. Not all that long ago, the criminal caused major trauma to Jesse and his deputy, Luther "Suit" Simpson. When they prevented one of his murder attempts, Mr. Peepers set his sights on getting even.
Needless to say, Jesse will do whatever it takes to bring him in dead or alive, and the chase leads to Dallas. That's where Jenn soon will wed her filthy rich fiance (Mr. Peepers, you see, has put Jesse, and everyone he works with and has ever loved, on his hit list, and apparently Jenn's name is at the top). But in Jesse's world, things are never quite that simple; will he be able to get his man before the man gets his revenge? I'm not about to tell - read it and find out for yourself.
November 25, 2025
A good but sad story. Has some unexpected twists at the end. Story was about a sadistic psychopath killer after Jesse and those closest to him. And Jesse takes on the task of trying to protect them. Jenn is getting married and Jesse and Suit both get engaged.
October 20, 2016
Reed Farrel Coleman has absolutely ruined the Jesse Stone series. I will probably never read another one. He is a terrible writer, he does not understand the characters, and he re-introduces a villain that would better fit Batman comics. The ending to this book absolutely sucks. You could see it coming from a mile away and it is just awful. It's almost as if Coleman hates the characters in the series. He really makes Michael Brandman look good. If there is anyone in the Parker family who cherishes Robert B.'s image get rid of this hack.
January 8, 2017
Interesting story degrades into a horrible ending. 2 of 10 stars
March 24, 2024
They way I’m reading the books in the various Robert B. Parker series that I’ve missed is a bit like reading one of those multiple author mystery collections…I mean, besides Parker himself, there a variety of legacy authors that have done such a wonderful job maintaining the various series in an almost seamless manner…In “Debt to Pay,” Reed Farrell Coleman has Jesse confronting the assassin, Mr. Peepers, and trying to prevent the assassin from targeting all those Jesse cares about…An edge of seat page-turner!!!
March 14, 2017
Debt to Pay by Reed Farrel Coleman for Robert B. Parker-Jesse Stone.
Mr. Peepers, a diabolical serial killer, shows up to start this story. Mr. Peepers has been known by Jesse and colleagues for years. His obsession with rudeness which follows with consequences is a way of life for this weasel. The victims range from a crime boss, a woman, a dog and add to that whoever rubs him the wrong way. A revenge killing is the agenda Mr. Peepers has had for Jesse Stone and it's no secret.
Jesse is at a time in his life when he is ready to move on from his former wife, Jenn, to his new found love, Diana. Jenn is planning her wedding and she wants (or demands) Jesse to be there for the nuptials. Jesse wants no part of it but then other plans need to be put in place...other plans due to the arrival of Mr. Peepers.
I just want to say that I am so thankful R.B.P. left the continuation of Jesse Stone with Coleman in his Will. A wonderful consideration for all of Jesse's many fans of which I am one.
Smooth writing, interesting story, workable characters (missing the dog) and a slam bam ending. A not so happily ever after ending.
Mr. Peepers, a diabolical serial killer, shows up to start this story. Mr. Peepers has been known by Jesse and colleagues for years. His obsession with rudeness which follows with consequences is a way of life for this weasel. The victims range from a crime boss, a woman, a dog and add to that whoever rubs him the wrong way. A revenge killing is the agenda Mr. Peepers has had for Jesse Stone and it's no secret.
Jesse is at a time in his life when he is ready to move on from his former wife, Jenn, to his new found love, Diana. Jenn is planning her wedding and she wants (or demands) Jesse to be there for the nuptials. Jesse wants no part of it but then other plans need to be put in place...other plans due to the arrival of Mr. Peepers.
I just want to say that I am so thankful R.B.P. left the continuation of Jesse Stone with Coleman in his Will. A wonderful consideration for all of Jesse's many fans of which I am one.
Smooth writing, interesting story, workable characters (missing the dog) and a slam bam ending. A not so happily ever after ending.
September 25, 2016
Although he had worked closely with Robert B. Parker on the Jesse Stone television movies starring Tom Selleck, Michael Brandman's run with the characters following Parker's death was not well-received. Hopes lifted when Reed Farrell Coleman, a Shamus Award winner, was given the contract and published Blind Spot in 2014.
Unfortunately, Coleman was working with a character that Parker had not defined all that well, beginning the series just before his late-career doldrums set in, and not giving the Stone novels any boost as he did with his final Spenser books. So while the names of the people and the places were the same as they always had been, they resembled what came from Parker's hand not at all. Coleman added to his problems with a pair of mediocre stories that offered no other reason to enter the town of Paradise, Mass. Debt to Pay, Coleman's third Stone novel, does not solve these problems.
Mr. Peepers, the sadistic sociopathic assassin whom Jesse crossed in Blind Spot, is back to complete his plan for vengeance against those he believes wronged him. Jesse is not the only one on the list, but he's at the top, so when some other targets are found dead, he knows he will have to move to protect his ex-wife Jenn, since Peepers will try to get to Jesse through her. But Jenn is getting married in Dallas, and Jesse is in a serious stage of his relationship with Diana Evans. So moving to protect Jenn will be harder on him personally than he thought. Paradise patrolman Luther Simpson is also in danger, since he shot Peepers to save Jesse. With his attention divided between Dallas and Paradise and Jenn and Diane, Jesse may not be on top of his game, even though he will have to be in order to stop a possible bloodbath.
Coleman makes a number of mistakes -- he takes Jesse out of Paradise for much of the book, even though all of Parker's characters were creatures of their respective places more than anything else. They are much weaker in other locales. He makes the back-and-forth between Dallas and Paradise as confusing as possible. There's a scene in which Jesse and Jenn's new husband are in a bar fight with the ex-husband of the new husband's ex-lover that makes as much sense as it sounds like it would. Mr. Peepers abducts and terrorizes a young woman supposedly as a part of his plot but her role makes no sense. He develops his plans based on a supposed connection with Jenn that Coleman never clearly outlines.
Coleman is free and easy with Parker's characters, perhaps figuring on generating some interest based on George Martin's "Anyone can die at any time" schtick, but it's a flashy wax job on a rusty clunker. The main response Debt to Pay evokes from a reader is a strong desire to seek out Michael Brandman and apologize to him for criticizing what he did to the good and not-so-good folk of Paradise, Mass. Turns out he wasn't the worst thing to happen to them after all.
Original available here.
Unfortunately, Coleman was working with a character that Parker had not defined all that well, beginning the series just before his late-career doldrums set in, and not giving the Stone novels any boost as he did with his final Spenser books. So while the names of the people and the places were the same as they always had been, they resembled what came from Parker's hand not at all. Coleman added to his problems with a pair of mediocre stories that offered no other reason to enter the town of Paradise, Mass. Debt to Pay, Coleman's third Stone novel, does not solve these problems.
Mr. Peepers, the sadistic sociopathic assassin whom Jesse crossed in Blind Spot, is back to complete his plan for vengeance against those he believes wronged him. Jesse is not the only one on the list, but he's at the top, so when some other targets are found dead, he knows he will have to move to protect his ex-wife Jenn, since Peepers will try to get to Jesse through her. But Jenn is getting married in Dallas, and Jesse is in a serious stage of his relationship with Diana Evans. So moving to protect Jenn will be harder on him personally than he thought. Paradise patrolman Luther Simpson is also in danger, since he shot Peepers to save Jesse. With his attention divided between Dallas and Paradise and Jenn and Diane, Jesse may not be on top of his game, even though he will have to be in order to stop a possible bloodbath.
Coleman makes a number of mistakes -- he takes Jesse out of Paradise for much of the book, even though all of Parker's characters were creatures of their respective places more than anything else. They are much weaker in other locales. He makes the back-and-forth between Dallas and Paradise as confusing as possible. There's a scene in which Jesse and Jenn's new husband are in a bar fight with the ex-husband of the new husband's ex-lover that makes as much sense as it sounds like it would. Mr. Peepers abducts and terrorizes a young woman supposedly as a part of his plot but her role makes no sense. He develops his plans based on a supposed connection with Jenn that Coleman never clearly outlines.
Coleman is free and easy with Parker's characters, perhaps figuring on generating some interest based on George Martin's "Anyone can die at any time" schtick, but it's a flashy wax job on a rusty clunker. The main response Debt to Pay evokes from a reader is a strong desire to seek out Michael Brandman and apologize to him for criticizing what he did to the good and not-so-good folk of Paradise, Mass. Turns out he wasn't the worst thing to happen to them after all.
Original available here.
February 4, 2017
DEBT TO PAY is the 15th book in the Jesse Stone series started by Robert B. Parker, and the sixth since Parker's death. While trying to put together my thoughts on this novel, I considered that Parker passed before being able to fully develop the Jesse Stone character as he did with Spenser over the years. Also, Jesse Stone carries much more baggage relating to his dismissal from the L.A. Police force due to his drinking, and the leading lady in the series is his ex-wife Jen who makes Susan Silverman in the Spenser novels seem a breath of fresh air - even to those of us who can be annoyed with Parker's use of her in many of the later novels. Jen is poison to Jessie and definitely doesn't help his drinking problem with her constant drama, manipulation, and really just being an overall pain in the ass.
So what would be a recipe for disaster in a storyline for this novel? You guessed it - more Jen..
Most of the story involves Jesse having to attend Jen's wedding to protect her from a psycho killer nick-named Mr. Peepers who is back again after shooting Luther ("Suit"), and is dropping hints about hurting or killing her to get back at Jesse at the ceremony. Drama and overall nonsense makes up the majority of this book, with some high points involving Vinnie Morris and Captain Healy - especially near the end of the book, but it seemed too little too late.
I'm wondering if at this point it wouldn't be better not to continue the Jessie Stone novels, since they lack the quality of the Spenser series that Ace Atkins has written so far. Maybe it just needs a jump start with something positive taking place rather than more tragedy & Jesse turning back to the bottle and blaming himself for any and everything that goes wrong. Spenser novels have had new life breathed into them with Ace Atkins' writing after things had gone stale in RBP's later novels.
Also, the addition of Zebulon Sixkill as well as Chollo having a larger role in the Spenser novels really has worked in a big way, so if the Jesse Stone series continues it would be great if a new character or two would emerge to have a positive effect on the next book written.
Reed Farrel Coleman may be a fine author, as I've never read any of his other novels and wouldn't know, but this one was a definite disappointment.
So what would be a recipe for disaster in a storyline for this novel? You guessed it - more Jen..
Most of the story involves Jesse having to attend Jen's wedding to protect her from a psycho killer nick-named Mr. Peepers who is back again after shooting Luther ("Suit"), and is dropping hints about hurting or killing her to get back at Jesse at the ceremony. Drama and overall nonsense makes up the majority of this book, with some high points involving Vinnie Morris and Captain Healy - especially near the end of the book, but it seemed too little too late.
I'm wondering if at this point it wouldn't be better not to continue the Jessie Stone novels, since they lack the quality of the Spenser series that Ace Atkins has written so far. Maybe it just needs a jump start with something positive taking place rather than more tragedy & Jesse turning back to the bottle and blaming himself for any and everything that goes wrong. Spenser novels have had new life breathed into them with Ace Atkins' writing after things had gone stale in RBP's later novels.
Also, the addition of Zebulon Sixkill as well as Chollo having a larger role in the Spenser novels really has worked in a big way, so if the Jesse Stone series continues it would be great if a new character or two would emerge to have a positive effect on the next book written.
Reed Farrel Coleman may be a fine author, as I've never read any of his other novels and wouldn't know, but this one was a definite disappointment.
February 26, 2017
Jesse Stone has always been the country cousin to Spenser, slower, heavier, fewer clever comebacks, but still a good guy to hang out with. He always got the job done, battled his demons, loved some women, respected everyone. Reed Farrel Coleman has done him in. Made him heavy in a clunky book that has so much nasty stuff the whole story goes south. Won't ever pick up one of these series by RFC again. Have to go back and read one of the good ones, though I have to admit, even they are few.
August 26, 2016
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
Since the closing pages of Blind Spot , I've been waiting for the other shoe to fall victim to gravity. Jesse Stone has been, too. Well, after a more typical Stone novel, the wait is over -- Mr. Peepers, the sadistic hitman that almost killed Suitcase Simpson and evaded Jesse, is back.
Just in time for just in time for Jesse's ex, Jen's wedding.
Before I forget, isn't that a great move? Build suspense by ignoring the cliffhanger-esque ending for a whole book? In the wrong hands, that'd be annoying, but done right? Very effective.
Jesse and his lady-love, Diana (the FBI agent turned private security consultant) are off to Texas to meet Jen's fiance, maybe get a little closure, and covertly protect Jen from the special mix of psychological and physical torture that Peepers subjects his victims to before killing them. While Jesse seems to be several steps behind, Peepers seems to be calling all the shots -- he's got all the power and is making Jesse jump through whatever hoops he wants him to.
Meanwhile, changes are afoot with the Paradise Police Department, State Homicide and Suit's life (and a few other places) -- just so we don't all get too wrapped up in Pepper's quest for vengeance.
As he has in the previous two novels in this series, Coleman keeps things moving at a great pace, the suspense keeps getting ratcheted up -- interspersed by heartwarming, amusing, and troubling moments, so it's not suspense overkill. There are some great character moments -- especially with Diana and Jesse, Suit and a few people, Jesse and a bottle. There's no mystery here -- we all know who the villain of the piece is, the only question is how Peppers will attack and who will remain standing at the end of the book.
In his other major series, Parker introduced a paid assassin, The Gray Man, who almost killed Spenser and plagued him for a while afterwards. Mr. Peepers is far creepier, deadlier, and interesting than the Gray Man ever was. I really didn't like being in that dude's head as much as we were -- which means that Coleman succeeded in making him a terrible person -- I felt like washing my brain out with soap to get over some of the Peepers chapters.
Ace Atkins has returned Spenser to his roots (moved things forward, don't get me wrong, it's not just a nostalgia trip), but Coleman has taken Jesse and the rest and shaken things up -- he's stayed true to the characters, the series, the feel -- but he's pushed things ahead and has probably made more real changes to the series than Parker did since book 2 (but making things feel risky and inventive feels like the roots of this series). Actually, he's not just changed this series -- he's done things that affect the whole of the Parker-verse. Just look at Suit -- everything we need to know about what Coleman's doing to the series is embodied there. I know Coleman's take is not that popular with some long-time fans, but I couldn't be happier -- either with the series as it is right now, or with this book.
This was riveting, literally never a dull moment -- not relentless, you can relax occasionally, even grin. But I had to force myself to put it down to do the responsible adult thing a couple of times. I expect most fans of Jesse and the PPD folks will have similar experiences with Debt to Pay.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
---
Since the closing pages of Blind Spot , I've been waiting for the other shoe to fall victim to gravity. Jesse Stone has been, too. Well, after a more typical Stone novel, the wait is over -- Mr. Peepers, the sadistic hitman that almost killed Suitcase Simpson and evaded Jesse, is back.
Just in time for just in time for Jesse's ex, Jen's wedding.
Before I forget, isn't that a great move? Build suspense by ignoring the cliffhanger-esque ending for a whole book? In the wrong hands, that'd be annoying, but done right? Very effective.
Jesse and his lady-love, Diana (the FBI agent turned private security consultant) are off to Texas to meet Jen's fiance, maybe get a little closure, and covertly protect Jen from the special mix of psychological and physical torture that Peepers subjects his victims to before killing them. While Jesse seems to be several steps behind, Peepers seems to be calling all the shots -- he's got all the power and is making Jesse jump through whatever hoops he wants him to.
Meanwhile, changes are afoot with the Paradise Police Department, State Homicide and Suit's life (and a few other places) -- just so we don't all get too wrapped up in Pepper's quest for vengeance.
As he has in the previous two novels in this series, Coleman keeps things moving at a great pace, the suspense keeps getting ratcheted up -- interspersed by heartwarming, amusing, and troubling moments, so it's not suspense overkill. There are some great character moments -- especially with Diana and Jesse, Suit and a few people, Jesse and a bottle. There's no mystery here -- we all know who the villain of the piece is, the only question is how Peppers will attack and who will remain standing at the end of the book.
In his other major series, Parker introduced a paid assassin, The Gray Man, who almost killed Spenser and plagued him for a while afterwards. Mr. Peepers is far creepier, deadlier, and interesting than the Gray Man ever was. I really didn't like being in that dude's head as much as we were -- which means that Coleman succeeded in making him a terrible person -- I felt like washing my brain out with soap to get over some of the Peepers chapters.
Ace Atkins has returned Spenser to his roots (moved things forward, don't get me wrong, it's not just a nostalgia trip), but Coleman has taken Jesse and the rest and shaken things up -- he's stayed true to the characters, the series, the feel -- but he's pushed things ahead and has probably made more real changes to the series than Parker did since book 2 (but making things feel risky and inventive feels like the roots of this series). Actually, he's not just changed this series -- he's done things that affect the whole of the Parker-verse. Just look at Suit -- everything we need to know about what Coleman's doing to the series is embodied there. I know Coleman's take is not that popular with some long-time fans, but I couldn't be happier -- either with the series as it is right now, or with this book.
This was riveting, literally never a dull moment -- not relentless, you can relax occasionally, even grin. But I had to force myself to put it down to do the responsible adult thing a couple of times. I expect most fans of Jesse and the PPD folks will have similar experiences with Debt to Pay.
Disclaimer: I received this eARC from G.P. Putnam's Sons via NetGalley in exchange for this post -- thanks to both for this.
June 1, 2021
Enter Jesse stone who once again gets visited by a serial killer / assassin who got his issues with the Paradise police force and is willing to take them out on them and mostly with Jesse Stone.
He firstly is shooting at tires in the Paradise area before he kills the assistant of Gino Fish, the Boston Mobster, who then rather takes his own life than suffer the torture by this psycho Peepers.
Jesse stone is full on in the romance with a new girlfriend who just might be the real thing, while his ex Jennifer is finally trying to tie the knot with some Texan rich person who both want them at their wedding. Both Jesse and his new beau do not want that at all until the invitation becomes personal as Peepers lets Jesse know he kind of fancies Jenny for himself because of Jesse's interference before.
Okay Mr Coleman does write a mean thriller and delivers a more than decent plot, for me he however lacks the cynic Jesse Stone with his laidback sense of life and great one-liners. It does no longer feel like Jesse Stone, I doubt if even Tom Selleck could rejuvenate the character back to life.
Still nice knowing that some things still continue and it was comfortable read while traveling from and to work.
He firstly is shooting at tires in the Paradise area before he kills the assistant of Gino Fish, the Boston Mobster, who then rather takes his own life than suffer the torture by this psycho Peepers.
Jesse stone is full on in the romance with a new girlfriend who just might be the real thing, while his ex Jennifer is finally trying to tie the knot with some Texan rich person who both want them at their wedding. Both Jesse and his new beau do not want that at all until the invitation becomes personal as Peepers lets Jesse know he kind of fancies Jenny for himself because of Jesse's interference before.
Okay Mr Coleman does write a mean thriller and delivers a more than decent plot, for me he however lacks the cynic Jesse Stone with his laidback sense of life and great one-liners. It does no longer feel like Jesse Stone, I doubt if even Tom Selleck could rejuvenate the character back to life.
Still nice knowing that some things still continue and it was comfortable read while traveling from and to work.
September 29, 2016
Reed Farrel Coleman continues to grow into the Jesse Stone series. This is by far his best effort and may take Stone places Robert B. Parker had not contemplated.
And that, in itself, is a wonder. Because it gives the characters and their storyline a life that surpasses the lifespan of their creator.
Jesse has stopped drinking, is dating former FBI agent Diana Evans and, finally, coming to grips with his complex relationship with his ex-wife. Paradise is peaceful.
But a killer from an earlier book is lurking in the shadows, promising to pay his debt to Stone and others and to upset the calm. If you have taken a break from this series, it is time to give it another chance.
And that, in itself, is a wonder. Because it gives the characters and their storyline a life that surpasses the lifespan of their creator.
Jesse has stopped drinking, is dating former FBI agent Diana Evans and, finally, coming to grips with his complex relationship with his ex-wife. Paradise is peaceful.
But a killer from an earlier book is lurking in the shadows, promising to pay his debt to Stone and others and to upset the calm. If you have taken a break from this series, it is time to give it another chance.
October 3, 2016
Will evil and despair ever stop lurking at jesse's door?
Mr. Peepers has returned to extract his revenge against Jesse and Suit. He's a very calculated, demonic & sociopathic killer. He wants to kill anyone close to Jesse as well as Suit for shooting him in the shoulder. To top it off, Jenn, jesse's ex-wife is getting married in Dallas and wants Jesse at the wedding. Is Mr. Peepers after Jenn or is it someone else close to Jesse?
Interesting.; never wanted to put the book down. Full of action, drama, love, pain, weddings....it's an enjoyable read.
Mr. Peepers has returned to extract his revenge against Jesse and Suit. He's a very calculated, demonic & sociopathic killer. He wants to kill anyone close to Jesse as well as Suit for shooting him in the shoulder. To top it off, Jenn, jesse's ex-wife is getting married in Dallas and wants Jesse at the wedding. Is Mr. Peepers after Jenn or is it someone else close to Jesse?
Interesting.; never wanted to put the book down. Full of action, drama, love, pain, weddings....it's an enjoyable read.
September 22, 2016
(3 12). Reed Farrel Coleman is one hell of an entertaining writer. His revitalization of the Jesse Stone franchise has been stellar and his other work is big fun as well. This story is pretty dramatic and edgy from the start, the only drawback I can find is that it feels a little drawn out most of the way. We keep begging for the resolution but it goes on and on until a slam, bam ending. Coleman is on my must read list these days, no matter what direction he goes in. He has earned it.
November 20, 2016
Jesse Stone has his demons and as a character we love, his demons are a concern even if he doesn't himself see the problem. A creepy antagonist returns and there are plenty of concerns to go around.
June 6, 2018
Maybe 2.5 - sorry - Jesse Stone didn't seem like "Jesse Stone" - nobody does Jess like Robert B. Parker!
June 3, 2020
It is nearly impossible for anyone to follow in Parker's footsteps. This book confirmed that premise.
October 25, 2023
Entertaining mystery listening 🎶🔰
This was a kindle e-book novel from the local library.
Jesse Stone is police chief in the village of Paradise, Massachusetts on the sea coast north of Boston. A killer with a past with Jesse Stone kills a job boss then two others and the fun begins. Jesse travels to Texas to his ex-wife wedding but rushes back to Paradise where it all ends.
I would recommend this series and authors too readers of mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 😀👒😡🏡🍸
Having lived in Massachusetts and New Hampshire I can visualize where the story takes place.
This was a kindle e-book novel from the local library.
Jesse Stone is police chief in the village of Paradise, Massachusetts on the sea coast north of Boston. A killer with a past with Jesse Stone kills a job boss then two others and the fun begins. Jesse travels to Texas to his ex-wife wedding but rushes back to Paradise where it all ends.
I would recommend this series and authors too readers of mystery novels 👍🔰. 2023 😀👒😡🏡🍸
Having lived in Massachusetts and New Hampshire I can visualize where the story takes place.
October 6, 2016
I think Ace Atkins does a great job of writing along the lines of Robert Parker but feel that Reed Coleman falls short. I found myself struggling to finish this book as it was quite boring at times. Much too much time was spent with Mr Peepers and the blonde he had taken as a hostage. The rehashing of Jesse and Jenn's relationship was excessive. I felt as though this book was an exercise in getting to a certain number of pages and feel the story could have been told with at least 75 less pages. There is alot of action in the last 10 pages but would have enjoyed more throughout the book in order to keep me interested.
June 29, 2018
4* A heavier story than the light summer ones I’ve been listening to lately. Good one.
March 16, 2018
Not really by Robert Parker so a step down.
September 22, 2016
"Robert B. Parker's Debt To Pay" by Reed Farrel Coleman published on September 13, 2016 so it's available for purchase now. Reed Farrel Coleman has taken over writing Robert B. Parker's character Jesse Stone and now that I've read "Debt To Pay" I agree with The Huffington Post about the novel's success.
“This series can run forever in these new capable hands and readers will eagerly await each new book about Jesse Stone. I know I will.”
—The Huffington Post
When Robert B. Parker died he left several strong characters such as Spencer and Jesse Stone, I think the readers are lucky that Reed Farrel Coleman agreed to bring the Jesse Stone character back to life. Several of my favorite authors are deceased, John D. MacDonald and Robert A. Heinlein to name a few, and I heartily miss their incredible characters. I mourn the fact there are to be no more of their engrossing books. It's great to feel like I'm getting on of my favorite author's back.
Not much is happening in Paradise, the small town where Jesse Stone is Chief of Police. Although there has been some annoying petty vandalism lately, Jesse is much more concerned about his ex wife Jenn's upcoming wedding. He received his invitation but because of their convoluted history, he just doesn't want to attend. Jesse is worried seeing Jenn will stir up a hornet's nest of emotions that he's worked hard to tamp down. Besides, he has a new woman in his life and he doesn't think Dianna will want to attend his ex's nuptials.
Jesse doesn't get to carry out his decision to skip the wedding though. An old foe has reared his deadly little head up and threatened everyone Jesse cares about, including his ex wife Jenn. Now Jesse has to try and puzzle out the clues to just what Mr. Peepers is planning. Peepers is a lethal shadowy, brilliant assassin who is nearly a ghost to law enforcement. Only Jesse and Suit have seen the madman's face, that and the fact that Jesse is the only one to ever thwart Mr. P's assassination plans have put all of Jesse's friends in the cross hairs.
I read every one of the Spencer books and several of the Jesse Stone novels by RBP. I also watched the tv versions of these characters. I guess what I'm saying is that I know what to expect from a Parker novel and I thought I'd be hard to convince that anyone could reanimate Parker's characters and make them as good as he wrote them. I had my doubts that I'd like this book by Coleman. I can honestly say I was shocked at how stunningly good this book was. I will certainly be picking up more of this series now that it has been brought back to life by Reed Farrel Coleman. He's one hell of a good writer. This is a 5 out of five read, don't miss this book.
“This series can run forever in these new capable hands and readers will eagerly await each new book about Jesse Stone. I know I will.”
—The Huffington Post
When Robert B. Parker died he left several strong characters such as Spencer and Jesse Stone, I think the readers are lucky that Reed Farrel Coleman agreed to bring the Jesse Stone character back to life. Several of my favorite authors are deceased, John D. MacDonald and Robert A. Heinlein to name a few, and I heartily miss their incredible characters. I mourn the fact there are to be no more of their engrossing books. It's great to feel like I'm getting on of my favorite author's back.
Not much is happening in Paradise, the small town where Jesse Stone is Chief of Police. Although there has been some annoying petty vandalism lately, Jesse is much more concerned about his ex wife Jenn's upcoming wedding. He received his invitation but because of their convoluted history, he just doesn't want to attend. Jesse is worried seeing Jenn will stir up a hornet's nest of emotions that he's worked hard to tamp down. Besides, he has a new woman in his life and he doesn't think Dianna will want to attend his ex's nuptials.
Jesse doesn't get to carry out his decision to skip the wedding though. An old foe has reared his deadly little head up and threatened everyone Jesse cares about, including his ex wife Jenn. Now Jesse has to try and puzzle out the clues to just what Mr. Peepers is planning. Peepers is a lethal shadowy, brilliant assassin who is nearly a ghost to law enforcement. Only Jesse and Suit have seen the madman's face, that and the fact that Jesse is the only one to ever thwart Mr. P's assassination plans have put all of Jesse's friends in the cross hairs.
I read every one of the Spencer books and several of the Jesse Stone novels by RBP. I also watched the tv versions of these characters. I guess what I'm saying is that I know what to expect from a Parker novel and I thought I'd be hard to convince that anyone could reanimate Parker's characters and make them as good as he wrote them. I had my doubts that I'd like this book by Coleman. I can honestly say I was shocked at how stunningly good this book was. I will certainly be picking up more of this series now that it has been brought back to life by Reed Farrel Coleman. He's one hell of a good writer. This is a 5 out of five read, don't miss this book.
February 21, 2017
“Debt To Pay” is the fifteenth episode of Robert B. Parker’s fun Jesse Stone series, nine of which were by the original author prior to his death. Following three novels written for the estate by Michael Brandon, playwright of the eight Jesse Stone (TV) movies, Reed Coleman has taken over the set as an experienced mystery writer himself. In this his third continuation, we now know what to expect: more complicated plots than the lighter early tales; thankfully less of Jenn and related trips to the therapist; and plenty about Jesse’s drinking habits, a long-standing issue.
In “Debt”, the evil Mr. Peepers is reprised from Coleman’s first Stone novel “Blind Spot.” Peepers suffered a gunshot injury by Paradise cop “Suit” Simpson in that novel, and now Peepers, a brutal killer, is out for revenge against anybody that Stone treasures in his life. Besides Suit, policewoman Molly, current Stone flame Diana, and of course ex-wife Jenn are all worrisome targets; and Peepers is not shy about calling Stone to warn him of impending trouble. Meanwhile, Gino Fish, a mobster with whom Stone sometimes trades favors, is murdered -- with Stone virtually certain that slaying was more of Peepers’ work. That Jenn is soon to be remarried creates considerable suspense throughout, and finally the showdown occurs with some unexpected outcomes.
The story has more than a few surprises that entertained, but we were not pleased at all with the final scenes. We were also disappointed to see Stone’s State Police executive buddy Healy retire, as he was a fine supporting character. We’d prefer to see these tales simplify a little and let us warm back up to a friendlier cast with more local matters at hand than evidenced in this latest. That said, we’re not about to skip any Jesse Stone tale, but wonder what will happen after the next Coleman version completes his four-book contract!
In “Debt”, the evil Mr. Peepers is reprised from Coleman’s first Stone novel “Blind Spot.” Peepers suffered a gunshot injury by Paradise cop “Suit” Simpson in that novel, and now Peepers, a brutal killer, is out for revenge against anybody that Stone treasures in his life. Besides Suit, policewoman Molly, current Stone flame Diana, and of course ex-wife Jenn are all worrisome targets; and Peepers is not shy about calling Stone to warn him of impending trouble. Meanwhile, Gino Fish, a mobster with whom Stone sometimes trades favors, is murdered -- with Stone virtually certain that slaying was more of Peepers’ work. That Jenn is soon to be remarried creates considerable suspense throughout, and finally the showdown occurs with some unexpected outcomes.
The story has more than a few surprises that entertained, but we were not pleased at all with the final scenes. We were also disappointed to see Stone’s State Police executive buddy Healy retire, as he was a fine supporting character. We’d prefer to see these tales simplify a little and let us warm back up to a friendlier cast with more local matters at hand than evidenced in this latest. That said, we’re not about to skip any Jesse Stone tale, but wonder what will happen after the next Coleman version completes his four-book contract!
August 29, 2016
When Robert B Parker died in 2010 I thought that Spenser, Jesse Stone and Virgil & Everett had gone with him. Fortunately for his readers, other authors have stepped into the breech and carried on with these iconic books. “Debt to Pay” is the continuation of the Jesse Stone series by Reed Farrel Coleman.
In this book the soulless, psychopathic killer known as “Mr. Peepers” reappears, threatening Jesse, his patrolman Luther “Suitcase” Simpson, Molly Crane, and the people they love. Mr. Peepers wants revenge for incidents which took place in a prior book, but if you have not read the other book there is enough explanation to satisfy, but not so much as to ruin the first book when (and I don’t say “if”) you read it.
This is a fast-paced, tension-filled, nervous-making book. The suspense never lets up, right from the beginning to the very end. I am not going to give spoilers, but trust me, this is not a book for the fainthearted. Peepers leads Jesse and the reader on a spine-tingling chase from Massachusetts to Texas, scaring everyone, especially me.
“Debt to Pay” is an excellent addition to the Jesse Stone series, one of which I think Robert B Parker himself would have been proud. Coleman is a worthy successor to the Master and he proves it with this book. Five enthusiastic stars.
I was given an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley for my honest opinion.
In this book the soulless, psychopathic killer known as “Mr. Peepers” reappears, threatening Jesse, his patrolman Luther “Suitcase” Simpson, Molly Crane, and the people they love. Mr. Peepers wants revenge for incidents which took place in a prior book, but if you have not read the other book there is enough explanation to satisfy, but not so much as to ruin the first book when (and I don’t say “if”) you read it.
This is a fast-paced, tension-filled, nervous-making book. The suspense never lets up, right from the beginning to the very end. I am not going to give spoilers, but trust me, this is not a book for the fainthearted. Peepers leads Jesse and the reader on a spine-tingling chase from Massachusetts to Texas, scaring everyone, especially me.
“Debt to Pay” is an excellent addition to the Jesse Stone series, one of which I think Robert B Parker himself would have been proud. Coleman is a worthy successor to the Master and he proves it with this book. Five enthusiastic stars.
I was given an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley for my honest opinion.
February 15, 2017
This book concludes the story of Peepers, the author began in Robert B. Parker's Blind Spot. Peepers is a totally creepy character, but a bit cardboard, too. Although I previously like the Jesse Stone books written by Michael Brandman and Reed Farrel Coleman after Robert B. Parker's death, this one seems all over the place and key Parker characters are eliminated or retired. Since two of them are characters from the Spenser series, Coleman has diminished the cast for Ace Atkins books in the process.
My biggest complaint about this book is the reader feels jerked about by the plot devices and the book has a sad, depressing ending. Also Colman's style deviates from Parker's particularly in that he writes many chapters in the villain's point of view. Something Parker never did.
My biggest complaint about this book is the reader feels jerked about by the plot devices and the book has a sad, depressing ending. Also Colman's style deviates from Parker's particularly in that he writes many chapters in the villain's point of view. Something Parker never did.
October 4, 2016
#15 in the Jesse Stone series (#3 by author Coleman, after 9 by series originator Robert B Parker and 3 by Michael Brandman). Author Coleman continues to put his unique stamp on the Jesse Stone character, stressing his alcoholism after author had gradually played down his dependence on the bottle.
Jesse Stone series - Jesse, who rebounded from losing his job with the LAPD because of his alcoholism, has found a comfortable landing spot in Paradise, Mass., and he feels confident that he can remain sober. But that resolve is tested by two intertwined developments that challenge his personal and professional life. His ex-wife, Jenn, is about to get married, and Jesse, who has found a new love in ex-FBI agent Diana Evans, hopes the ceremony will give him closure for a difficult relationship. And the man known as Mr. Peepers, "part serial killer, part assassin, part terrorist," has resurfaced to torment Jesse. Mr. Peepers's threat to murder Jenn sets up a complex cat and mouse game.
Jesse Stone series - Jesse, who rebounded from losing his job with the LAPD because of his alcoholism, has found a comfortable landing spot in Paradise, Mass., and he feels confident that he can remain sober. But that resolve is tested by two intertwined developments that challenge his personal and professional life. His ex-wife, Jenn, is about to get married, and Jesse, who has found a new love in ex-FBI agent Diana Evans, hopes the ceremony will give him closure for a difficult relationship. And the man known as Mr. Peepers, "part serial killer, part assassin, part terrorist," has resurfaced to torment Jesse. Mr. Peepers's threat to murder Jenn sets up a complex cat and mouse game.
September 12, 2016
It's my pleasure to let you all know that with DEBT TO PAY, the third of Reed Farrel Coleman's top-drawer and finely crafted contributions to Robert B. Parker's Jesse Stone series, we are in the best of hands (as well as hearts and minds). And with this installment, Coleman takes risks by making changes in the over all story of Jesse Stone, the alcoholic and emotionally wounded Paradise police chief, and his world that are both welcome and exciting. But don't despair if you like your status "quo". The changes (which I will not spoil for you) are welcome because they help to keep the series fresh and a thrilling read from page one. You'll enjoy the ride that is DEBT TO PAY and Coleman knows how to give us a real page turner with an especially memorably bad guy (to put it mildly) this time around. Enjoy the ride, you're being driven by a master.
October 7, 2016
Reed Farrrel Coleman has made the late Robert b Parker's Jesse Stone (and of course the characters surrounding Stone, such as Molly Crane and Suitcase Simpson) his own. I miss Parker's prose (his writing was deceptively "simple") but Coleman is not engaged in as much of a slavish imitation of Parker's style as Ace Atkins is when writing the new Spenser novels. Regarding Debt to Pay: I really enjoyed it and it kept me riveted, so much so that I went cover to cover in less than sixteen hours. This novel features a truly fearsome and diabolical villain who is a worthy opponent for Stone, with a real ax to grind. Good stuff!
October 7, 2016
Robert B not happy
How offensive! Within the first few pages, we , against all hope, know that the best thing in Jesse's life would be lost. But until the last few pages we held out some hope. I have to think that, simply knowing Mr. Parker through his book, he would at this time in Jesse`s story give him some degree of hope and happiness. I truly think that, had Mr. Parker not died, he would have let Sunny and Jesse find love. Sadly, this new writer has shown me that the real Jessie Stone died when Robert B. Parker. So sad.
How offensive! Within the first few pages, we , against all hope, know that the best thing in Jesse's life would be lost. But until the last few pages we held out some hope. I have to think that, simply knowing Mr. Parker through his book, he would at this time in Jesse`s story give him some degree of hope and happiness. I truly think that, had Mr. Parker not died, he would have let Sunny and Jesse find love. Sadly, this new writer has shown me that the real Jessie Stone died when Robert B. Parker. So sad.
September 15, 2016
I, like several other Robert Parker fans, thought the Jesse Stone series was gone. Thanks to Reed Coleman for continuing this series, I love Jesse Stone and will read them as long as I can. (The movies are good, also) Debt to Pay was a typical Jesse book, enjoy the comradery among the police officers of Paradise. Great story, good police work, and ending ?? No spoilers, here.
Now, when will the next one be out!
Thanks for a good read.
Now, when will the next one be out!
Thanks for a good read.
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