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Allan Stanton #3
Sorrowful Road
Halifax Homicide Detective Allan Stanton has been haunted for the last year by one case he couldn’t the brutal murder of a pretty twenty-two-year-old in Point Pleasant Park. On the anniversary of her death, the body of another young woman is found. The MO suggests the same person killed them both, but the long gap between murders is unusual for a serial killer.Fellow detective Audra Price joins Stanton in the search for this ruthless predator. But neither is prepared to handle such a unique brand of psychopath. Over a decade of unsolved case files turn up a swath of carnage, cut all across Canada with bone-chilling efficiency. The only way to bring justice to the victims is by following the most horrifying trail of their careers—to a monster who knows he’s being hunted.
418 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2016
707 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Alex MacLean
15 books122 followersAlex MacLean is the author of the Detective Allan Stanton mysteries—Grave Situation, One Kill Away, Sorrowful Road, Into Thin Air, and The Quiet That Followed—with a sixth on the way. He is also the author of The Banished, a historical novel of the Acadian expulsion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
October 8, 2019
This was an Amazon monthly free book. What a story and how evil was Jacob, a real page turned. Highly recommended
October 6, 2016
Three for three for Mr MacLean !!! Loved this third instalment featuring Allan Stanton. The author kindly gifted me a copy so I could nitpick my way through hunting for mistakes and I'm pleased to say I hardly spotted a thing !! So his proofreaders are doing well, now.
However, whether gifted or otherwise I don't go along with all this cobblers these days of not being able to leave lower than a 3* review if one of these "pre-release" organisations send you a preview copy. I want to be honest in my reviews, good or bad and won't be told I can't tell the truth if something's shocking.
The murderer in this story is an interesting person....quite the enigma, I thought. I know many live double lives, of course but this one also loves nature and takes pleasure in being at one with it....who'd have thought !! The choice of victims was again a departure as this killer pretty much kills anyone that moves !! No particular type or age or colour preference......interesting. Just does it and gets away with it so decides to carry on !! Simple as that....
I was a little shocked by the changes in Allan's personal life and a little disappointed the author appeared to gloss over that when it had been such a big part of his story in prior books. I'd have liked to learn more about what happened there.
Good to see Audra and her family featuring again-I like them. I hope there's going to be more of this series. Thanks again for sending it, Alex. I will email you.
However, whether gifted or otherwise I don't go along with all this cobblers these days of not being able to leave lower than a 3* review if one of these "pre-release" organisations send you a preview copy. I want to be honest in my reviews, good or bad and won't be told I can't tell the truth if something's shocking.
The murderer in this story is an interesting person....quite the enigma, I thought. I know many live double lives, of course but this one also loves nature and takes pleasure in being at one with it....who'd have thought !! The choice of victims was again a departure as this killer pretty much kills anyone that moves !! No particular type or age or colour preference......interesting. Just does it and gets away with it so decides to carry on !! Simple as that....
I was a little shocked by the changes in Allan's personal life and a little disappointed the author appeared to gloss over that when it had been such a big part of his story in prior books. I'd have liked to learn more about what happened there.
Good to see Audra and her family featuring again-I like them. I hope there's going to be more of this series. Thanks again for sending it, Alex. I will email you.
March 4, 2021
Mr. MacLean's writing in this series just gets stronger and stronger. Partially written in the voice of the antagonist in this story, it is a disturbing look at a double life. His thought process that the author leads us through as he alternates between being a loving father and planning his next crime, is both intriguing and horrifying. The main character of the series, Detective Allan Stanton, once again matches wits with a twisted mind as he tries to right a previous mistake. We find out a little more about Detective Stanton's personal life and I hope there will be even more in the next installment.....which I will be waiting for!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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September 6, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (9/6/2018)!💝
Blurb:
Halifax Homicide Detective Allan Stanton has been haunted for the last year by one case he couldn’t close: the brutal murder of a pretty twenty-two-year-old in Point Pleasant Park. On the anniversary of her death, the body of another young woman is found. The MO suggests the same person killed them both, but the long gap between murders is unusual for a serial killer.
Fellow detective Audra Price joins Stanton in the search for this ruthless predator. But neither is prepared to handle such a unique brand of psychopath. Over a decade of unsolved case files turn up a swath of carnage, cut all across Canada with bone-chilling efficiency. The only way to bring justice to the victims is by following the most horrifying trail of their careers—to a monster who knows he’s being hunted.
Blurb:
Halifax Homicide Detective Allan Stanton has been haunted for the last year by one case he couldn’t close: the brutal murder of a pretty twenty-two-year-old in Point Pleasant Park. On the anniversary of her death, the body of another young woman is found. The MO suggests the same person killed them both, but the long gap between murders is unusual for a serial killer.
Fellow detective Audra Price joins Stanton in the search for this ruthless predator. But neither is prepared to handle such a unique brand of psychopath. Over a decade of unsolved case files turn up a swath of carnage, cut all across Canada with bone-chilling efficiency. The only way to bring justice to the victims is by following the most horrifying trail of their careers—to a monster who knows he’s being hunted.
September 29, 2018
A different kind of serial killer.loved it.A must read
December 31, 2020
Great
Could not put it down. Disturbing story with great characters. Kept me up at night. Do not go hiking alone.
Could not put it down. Disturbing story with great characters. Kept me up at night. Do not go hiking alone.
October 17, 2019
3 1/2 stars for this this surprisingly enjoyable book. Beginning in Halifax, Nova Scotia and spreading across Canada, the book alternates POV between a sociopathic serial killer and several detectives attempting to make sense of murders that initially seem random and unrelated.
There are some weaknesses in the writing here and there, but for the most part this is an engaging book that moves along rapidly and engrosses the reader in the mind and disturbed thought processes of a killer.
To his credit, the author has avoided opting for a saccharine sweet ending. Rather, PTSD and the consequences that linger subsequent to losing a family member to murder are front and center throughout this book.
In all, a delightful surprise and freebie from BookBub to boot.
There are some weaknesses in the writing here and there, but for the most part this is an engaging book that moves along rapidly and engrosses the reader in the mind and disturbed thought processes of a killer.
To his credit, the author has avoided opting for a saccharine sweet ending. Rather, PTSD and the consequences that linger subsequent to losing a family member to murder are front and center throughout this book.
In all, a delightful surprise and freebie from BookBub to boot.
January 14, 2019
We tried this crime thriller more or less at random, having previously not read Alex MacLean. We enjoyed the Canadian settings, centered in Halifax, as well as the principals, Detectives Allen Stanton and Audra Price.
The plot was about a clever serial killer who was mostly just opportunistically doing it for thrills, much of the time while hiking. The bodies were invariably left only somewhat hidden in parks, so eventually a bunch of clues finally started to add up for the police. The bad guy narrated much of the action himself, with the scenes at his home rather disturbing. Other than that, while we came away somewhat entertained, it was neither a particularly noteworthy nor extraordinary police procedural.
The plot was about a clever serial killer who was mostly just opportunistically doing it for thrills, much of the time while hiking. The bodies were invariably left only somewhat hidden in parks, so eventually a bunch of clues finally started to add up for the police. The bad guy narrated much of the action himself, with the scenes at his home rather disturbing. Other than that, while we came away somewhat entertained, it was neither a particularly noteworthy nor extraordinary police procedural.
October 3, 2019
Very engaging police procedural, told half from the police point of view, half from the killer's. The killing of a jogger left in the park is very similar to that of another woman the year before. It takes time for the detectives, Allan & Audra, to be convinced the same killer is at work. And they start looking for similar killings in 4 Provinces - and find them. The killer loves his wife and daughters more than anything and he loves nature. His job requires him to travel across Canada for a few days each month, affording him to visit many nature parks, both to hike and to murder; he is an opportunistic & spontaneous killer, happening on someone also enjoying nature. Good writing kept my interest peaked!
October 4, 2019
I'm not sure the title fits. The killer certainly isn't sorrowful for what they've done. Detective Stanton is having a rough go as previous cases haunt him and it appears that he has PTSD so perhaps the title has more to do with him than the killer this time. This killer's acts weren't as gorily written as the first book but still gave as many chills. Some clues are discovered at the crime scene but not enough defining ones which makes this a tough case to solve. The team eventually gets there but the ending leaves a bit open to interpretation so it will be interesting to see if certain things come to light further down the road.
April 2, 2019
Allan Stanton and his partner Audra are reprised in this wonderful novel. The book reopens the murder of a girl more than a year in the past when another is murdered and similarly posed after death. With all that is going on Allan is also fighting PTSD symptoms which are worsening by the day. Will he stay "frosty" and capable? Will he and Audra finally bring the murderer to justice. Well you will have to read the book to find the answers to those questions and more. And it is well worthwhile to do so. Great job Mr. Maclean, and a great read.
September 30, 2018
Born that way.
Some people are just born that way, that is a saying you might hear. In this story it applies, sadly what he is born as is evil. The thrill of the kill without thought for anything or anyone. Fast moving engrossing story. Makes you stop and wonder about people, just who walks among us or perhaps who lives in your very own home...do you know the full story? Good mystery read.
Some people are just born that way, that is a saying you might hear. In this story it applies, sadly what he is born as is evil. The thrill of the kill without thought for anything or anyone. Fast moving engrossing story. Makes you stop and wonder about people, just who walks among us or perhaps who lives in your very own home...do you know the full story? Good mystery read.
June 8, 2018
Rope a dope
In this serial killer novell the killings are indiscriminate. No clues, no patterns, and no reasons. Just the thrill of the kill. There are interconnecting stories relating to the survivors and the detectives which bring a human touch of reality. Very good police grinding away until the breaks come.
In this serial killer novell the killings are indiscriminate. No clues, no patterns, and no reasons. Just the thrill of the kill. There are interconnecting stories relating to the survivors and the detectives which bring a human touch of reality. Very good police grinding away until the breaks come.
September 10, 2018
Great read
Real Page-Turner I enjoyed this book, the main detective character rang true as a person which sometimes isn't there in detective novels as did the traits and personality of the psychopath he was after. Took this on holiday as a beach read but ended up staying up late to finish it excellent book.
Real Page-Turner I enjoyed this book, the main detective character rang true as a person which sometimes isn't there in detective novels as did the traits and personality of the psychopath he was after. Took this on holiday as a beach read but ended up staying up late to finish it excellent book.
September 14, 2018
A good Canadian police procedural!
A psychopath, a wounded police officer: one being stopped (finally), the other beginning to heal (finally)...from the perspective of a Canadian writer. Familiar, yes, to a similar setting in America or Britain...but nicely nuanced to reflect the individuality & character of Canada. A worthwhile read, for fans of the genre.
A psychopath, a wounded police officer: one being stopped (finally), the other beginning to heal (finally)...from the perspective of a Canadian writer. Familiar, yes, to a similar setting in America or Britain...but nicely nuanced to reflect the individuality & character of Canada. A worthwhile read, for fans of the genre.
September 23, 2018
Mystery Thriller
Detective Allan Stanton of Halifax still thinks about and is haunted by the murder case he has been unable to solve - and then on the anniversary of her death another murder occurs with similar aspects of the other murder...read this book to find out if these are the only two!
Detective Allan Stanton of Halifax still thinks about and is haunted by the murder case he has been unable to solve - and then on the anniversary of her death another murder occurs with similar aspects of the other murder...read this book to find out if these are the only two!
September 25, 2018
Slow beginning but exciting in the end
Thought I would not continue reading. After the first 15 chapters, it started to get more exciting. When Stark gave his commentary and described his actions, that was when I could not stop reading. You will go through the mind of a serial killer. And how in can affect those who deal with this type of crime.
Thought I would not continue reading. After the first 15 chapters, it started to get more exciting. When Stark gave his commentary and described his actions, that was when I could not stop reading. You will go through the mind of a serial killer. And how in can affect those who deal with this type of crime.
September 30, 2018
Story begins in Point Pleasant Park not long after Hurricane Juan devastation. A murder in the park one year from the last murder. Investigation leads to the uncovering and arrest of a serial killer. Interesting psychoanalysis and insight into PTDS which one of the investigators is suffering from. A gripping read.
November 28, 2018
On the anniversary of the death of Mary Driscow, another body is found in similar circumstances. Detective Audra Price joins Stanton in the search for the killer but during their investigation the discovery of similar unsolved crimes Canada wide is disturbing.
Another interesting and well-written book in this series/trilogy.
Another interesting and well-written book in this series/trilogy.
May 8, 2019
I enjoyed reading this book. I couldn't wait to finish it.
The suspense was good. The characters were very interesting. Plot twisted, I was able to imagine the sceneries. I love the writer's imagination and details. I will read other books in this series. Thanks for keeping my mind and imagination going.
The suspense was good. The characters were very interesting. Plot twisted, I was able to imagine the sceneries. I love the writer's imagination and details. I will read other books in this series. Thanks for keeping my mind and imagination going.
September 19, 2019
I really loved this book. It was real easy to read but very complicated. I enjoyed feeling the emotion of the characters and how they struggled to solve the murders. The killer was such an unlikely one which made it even more interesting. I want to read more of this series to catch up on the characters. I will be following this author for more of this great writing.
September 20, 2019
Inside the Minds of Sucessful Serial Killer and his Hunters
The story of the day to day life of a serial killer told both as an autobiography/diary and the talented cops hunting him is spine
chillling.Very absorbing inside look at veteran homicide investigators facing the ever spiraling devastation on both the victims families and there own mental health too
The story of the day to day life of a serial killer told both as an autobiography/diary and the talented cops hunting him is spine
chillling.Very absorbing inside look at veteran homicide investigators facing the ever spiraling devastation on both the victims families and there own mental health too
September 29, 2019
Four stars
I enjoyed this book and have given four stars. I was a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of murders, and also by the matter of fact gone of some of the narrative. But who am I to know how a serial murderer thinks to himself? I would have like a bit more detail on the childhood events, especially the mother's view. But overall, pretty dang good.
I enjoyed this book and have given four stars. I was a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of murders, and also by the matter of fact gone of some of the narrative. But who am I to know how a serial murderer thinks to himself? I would have like a bit more detail on the childhood events, especially the mother's view. But overall, pretty dang good.
June 14, 2020
I have read another of MacLean's books, the first in the series, and this one was just as enjoyable. Somehow i missed the second but will chase up on that. It concerns a homicide detective in Canada on the trail of a killer operating across the country. Fast paced, good dialogue and interesting characters. What's not to like?
August 12, 2020
Downloaded by mistake
Thought it was going to be set in England, English books are far superior ! !
However I read it anyway, the plot was quite good but the characters were badly drawn, especially the 'troubled' detective, whose problems added nothing to the story.
Flashbacks to previous books are the sign of a poor writer
Thought it was going to be set in England, English books are far superior ! !
However I read it anyway, the plot was quite good but the characters were badly drawn, especially the 'troubled' detective, whose problems added nothing to the story.
Flashbacks to previous books are the sign of a poor writer
December 3, 2025
Wasn't expecting much... Was pleasantly surprised
I get these ebooks through bookbub and I honestly don't expect much. But you know they're the best types. I know this is book 3 and I never read 1&2 but I really enjoyed this. The pace is good, the amount of detail is good and I'd like to hear from stark again. It's real it's gritty and enjoyable.
I get these ebooks through bookbub and I honestly don't expect much. But you know they're the best types. I know this is book 3 and I never read 1&2 but I really enjoyed this. The pace is good, the amount of detail is good and I'd like to hear from stark again. It's real it's gritty and enjoyable.
March 23, 2018
4 ½ *stars REALLY
AL IS SUCH A SAD CHARACTER, SO FULL OF DISPAIR AND GLOOM (woe is me) HIS PARTNER ISN’T MUCH BETTER. THIS HAD THE GOOD SON THINGY GOING ON HERE SORTA . . . CREEPY. SPOOKY COVER, CHILLING AN AWESOME POLICE PROCEDULE.’D
AL IS SUCH A SAD CHARACTER, SO FULL OF DISPAIR AND GLOOM (woe is me) HIS PARTNER ISN’T MUCH BETTER. THIS HAD THE GOOD SON THINGY GOING ON HERE SORTA . . . CREEPY. SPOOKY COVER, CHILLING AN AWESOME POLICE PROCEDULE.’D
September 8, 2018
Great read.
I read fast and furiously through this book.. I just couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes police procedure and real detective work.. Maclean did a great job with this one.
I read fast and furiously through this book.. I just couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book to everyone who likes police procedure and real detective work.. Maclean did a great job with this one.
September 11, 2018
Could not put this down
A consuming story. The detectives and the effect their work has on their lives, and the fact that a killer can seem so normal. well written and flows through.
A consuming story. The detectives and the effect their work has on their lives, and the fact that a killer can seem so normal. well written and flows through.
September 11, 2018
Very enjoyable read
Gets right to the story. No padding out with unnecessary prose. I rather like 👍 this
Mr MacLean's writing style and and shall now start this series from the beginning.
Gets right to the story. No padding out with unnecessary prose. I rather like 👍 this
Mr MacLean's writing style and and shall now start this series from the beginning.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews