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Jayne Sinclair Genealogical Mystery #3
The American Candidate
In her most dangerous case yet, Jayne Sinclair investigates the family background of a potential candidate to be President of the United States of America.
When the politician who commissioned the genealogical research is shot dead in front of her, Jayne is forced to flee for her life. Why was he killed? And who is trying to stop the American Candidate’s family past from being revealed?
Jayne Sinclair is caught in a deadly race against time to discover the truth, armed only with her own wits and ability to research secrets hidden in the past.
The American Candidate is the third gripping mystery in the Jayne SInclair series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel.
When the politician who commissioned the genealogical research is shot dead in front of her, Jayne is forced to flee for her life. Why was he killed? And who is trying to stop the American Candidate’s family past from being revealed?
Jayne Sinclair is caught in a deadly race against time to discover the truth, armed only with her own wits and ability to research secrets hidden in the past.
The American Candidate is the third gripping mystery in the Jayne SInclair series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2017
285 people are currently reading
265 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Lee
46 books446 followersMartin has spent most of his adult life writing in one form or another.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
He has spent 25 years of his life working outside the North of England. In London, Hong Kong, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Shanghai.
He writes three series; the Danilov books set in 1930s Shanghai. The genealogical mysteries of Jayne Sinclair and the contemporary crime cases of DI Ridpath set in Manchester.
When he's not writing, he splits his time between the UK and Asia, taking pleasure in playing with his daughter, practicing downhill ironing, single-handedly solving the problem of the French wine lake and wishing he were George Clooney.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
August 30, 2017
The Jayne Sinclair Genealogical Mysteries by M J Lee are fast becoming one of my favourite series of books to read. I eagerly await each new instalment and feel so fortunate to be able to read early copies of these fascinating and gripping historical thrillers.
This is the third in the series and did not disappoint. Not always easy to read due to the WW2 subject matter, the story is at times shocking and horrifying, but as always the mix of genealogy and thriller work incredibly well together. As Jayne uncovers the secrets of the past, her own life is put into serious danger. What follows is a taut, gripping and sometimes shocking thriller that once started I did not want to put down.
Jayne Sinclair is a flawed but fascinating character who I'm enjoying more and more with every book. The ending was slightly weak, but the richness of the writing more than made up for it. I can't wait to see where and when M J Lee will take Jayne Sinclair next!
A gripping 4.5 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
This is the third in the series and did not disappoint. Not always easy to read due to the WW2 subject matter, the story is at times shocking and horrifying, but as always the mix of genealogy and thriller work incredibly well together. As Jayne uncovers the secrets of the past, her own life is put into serious danger. What follows is a taut, gripping and sometimes shocking thriller that once started I did not want to put down.
Jayne Sinclair is a flawed but fascinating character who I'm enjoying more and more with every book. The ending was slightly weak, but the richness of the writing more than made up for it. I can't wait to see where and when M J Lee will take Jayne Sinclair next!
A gripping 4.5 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.
June 2, 2018
Excellent series
I've enjoyed reading the series. The strong female lead is outstanding. I'm glad Lee hasn't gone the traditional route. Jayne is realistic and someone I'd call a friend.
I've enjoyed reading the series. The strong female lead is outstanding. I'm glad Lee hasn't gone the traditional route. Jayne is realistic and someone I'd call a friend.
August 25, 2017
When genealogist Jayne Sinclair receives a request to look into the background of a prospective American presidential candidate, she thinks that surely it can’t be that complex….after all the gentlemen in question, Thomas Jackson emigrated to the USA in the late 1940’s/ early 1950’s so surely to fully fulfil the entry requirements to the United States, all the information that she needs to trace the gentleman in question will be held by the US immigration authorities.
As her life is put in peril more than once will she be able to find out the truth about Jackson before her week is up and those held dearest to her are put in mortal peril.
An amazing fast paced thriller full of intrigue and suspense this book kept me hooked from beginning to end. Although not normally a fan of thrillers, I always make an exception when a new Jayne Sinclair book comes out as the genealogy in the books makes for a different and interesting type of read.
Another 5 star read and I hope Jayne will be back soon…….
February 9, 2019
Excellent read
I have read this in a day, couldn't go to bed until I had finished it. I am looking forward to the next one.
I have read this in a day, couldn't go to bed until I had finished it. I am looking forward to the next one.
February 28, 2022
Looking for book #4!
This series is phenomenal! Each book gets better and better. The four star rating is reflective of my distaste for Nazi fiction but overall it is a great story.
This series is phenomenal! Each book gets better and better. The four star rating is reflective of my distaste for Nazi fiction but overall it is a great story.
May 20, 2024
Content warning: pretty graphic antisemitism, violence/death, and a tiny bit of homophobia.
This dealt with some very unsavory topics (treason, antisemitism, white nationalism, violence, death) and also touched on a topic that I’ve never read about before: Oswald Mosley and the British Union of Fascists (BUF). It’s not too surprising why I hadn’t heard of BUF before as it’s not something that most people would want to talk about. There are some pretty heinous conversations shared in this book about characters justifying war crimes. I feel that Lee dealt with this as sensitively as he could, but it was still difficult and sickening to read, so beware if you choose to pick this up.
Such a good story, though. We also need to be aware of history so it doesn’t repeat, and I feel like that’s something this book emphasizes.
This dealt with some very unsavory topics (treason, antisemitism, white nationalism, violence, death) and also touched on a topic that I’ve never read about before: Oswald Mosley and the British Union of Fascists (BUF). It’s not too surprising why I hadn’t heard of BUF before as it’s not something that most people would want to talk about. There are some pretty heinous conversations shared in this book about characters justifying war crimes. I feel that Lee dealt with this as sensitively as he could, but it was still difficult and sickening to read, so beware if you choose to pick this up.
Such a good story, though. We also need to be aware of history so it doesn’t repeat, and I feel like that’s something this book emphasizes.
September 8, 2022
5Star!!! Love this complicated, political mystery. I don't unusually enjoy political stories, but I got dragged into this one along with Jayne. It was twisting & turning as I expect from this series. Jayne manages to find the correct answers at the very last minute. I knew when they gave her 5 days to solve the genealogical questions, It was going to be a wild ride and I was not disappointed. I love Jayne & her style.
Now ready for number 4. Thanks, M.J. Lee.
Now ready for number 4. Thanks, M.J. Lee.
October 13, 2017
This was a brilliant premise, Jayne Sinclair is a strong and brilliant genealogical detective, as if there would be any other kind. Her search made a story of two generations exciting and the transitions feel so vital for the future of a potential candidate. The actions of a long gone grandfather continue on. I suggest this book for mystery, history, fiction readers.
August 13, 2020
Keeps your attention
I like the books by this author! They are entertaining and keep you involved but not graphic . They tell great stories and without foul offensive language.it is a great read.
I like the books by this author! They are entertaining and keep you involved but not graphic . They tell great stories and without foul offensive language.it is a great read.
August 2, 2024
Phenomenal read. M J Lee never disappoints, and this is no different. Having read all his Ridpath novels, I have discovered this Jayne Sinclair genealogy series and I cant wait to read number 4 in the series. Brilliant.
June 19, 2021
Exciting and believable
Jayne does it again in this fast moving, tense, horrific thriller. Beginning was a bit rough, but then you got pulled in.
Jayne does it again in this fast moving, tense, horrific thriller. Beginning was a bit rough, but then you got pulled in.
February 11, 2021
Former "copper" and now genealogy researcher, Jayne Sinclair is hired to find a Presidential candidate's family history, but she only has 5 days! This whole book mostly takes place in those 5 days with flashbacks to the period she is researching. The reader THINKS he/she knows what she is going to find out. But there are still interesting twists. Another page turner, hard to put down. There was one chapter in the end that didn't seem to conclude the story, almost like there is more to that part. Good as part of the series, or a stand-alone.
July 6, 2021
Given the recent turmoil in US politics, this book was fascinating and utterly believable. It has been said that if you want to learn your family history, run for public office and others will do it for you. This is somewhat true in this book but there are so many plot turns that it is hard to put the book down. Add in a murder in cold blood in front of Jayne Sinclair and you have a story that is hard to beat. I must admit I had never heard of Oswald Mosley and his plans to convince young Englishmen that Hitler was a great leader and they should follow him. Thus, I got an education from a book I was reading for pleasure.
The writing is well done and is very easy to read. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys history, politics, and genealogy. You won't be disappointed.
The writing is well done and is very easy to read. I highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys history, politics, and genealogy. You won't be disappointed.
August 22, 2018
This was so disturbing to read as an American. A Presidential candidate comes to Jayne through political operatives and asks for help figuring out who his grandfather was. The man went to America after WWII but beyond a birth certificate they know nothing. As the meeting ends, the main contact is gunned down and Jayne and the underling are racing off for their lives assuming someone doesn't want them to uncover anything. Meanwhile, some shadowy Organization that seems to be the Third Reich remnant with way more power than any would like to believe possible are seen organizing these attacks. Interesting look at fascism in UK during WWII era.
June 26, 2019
A challenging story set in the 1930s-1940s
Reading about the history of the potential American Presidential candidate's grandfather was rather brutal. However, the mystery, the characters, the obstacles, the lead-up to WWII - they kept me reading. An amazing ending... Phew!! Highly recommended!!
Reading about the history of the potential American Presidential candidate's grandfather was rather brutal. However, the mystery, the characters, the obstacles, the lead-up to WWII - they kept me reading. An amazing ending... Phew!! Highly recommended!!
February 11, 2021
As always, an awesome read.
February 7, 2021
Another great read!
Another fantastic instalment in the Jayne Sinclair series, couldn’t put it down! The mix of genealogy and high paced crime Is a great combination. Highly recommend!
Another fantastic instalment in the Jayne Sinclair series, couldn’t put it down! The mix of genealogy and high paced crime Is a great combination. Highly recommend!
February 27, 2021
Oooh this was good. And. Surprise! I guessed the whole ending completely wrong. Very good book!
August 13, 2022
Excellent and exciting book. Easy to read and hard to put down. This is the third Jayne Sinclair Mystery I have read (reading in order) and the most enjoyable so far. To me, it was as exciting as the Da Vinci Code - I did not know what was going to happen next.
January 19, 2019
Although The American Candidate is the third book in a series, it can easily be read as a standalone-- and I know that matters to some readers who don't necessarily want to "sign up" for a series. I have enjoyed every book so far, and that's primarily due to the main character, Jayne Sinclair. She's a former police officer, and that training and background serve her well not only in pursuing her investigations but whenever her assignments put her in danger.
There is plenty of danger in this book as Jayne is forced to go underground in Manchester-- the city she considers her home turf. The two timelines work together well: the present day and the second during World War II. In fact, the World War II timeline brought to light some things that I was unaware of, but I'm not going to go into any detail because once I start, I may give something away.
If you have the slightest interest in history, in fast-paced mysteries, and in strong, intelligent female characters, you should give M.J. Lee's Jayne Sinclair series a try. These books are really good.
There is plenty of danger in this book as Jayne is forced to go underground in Manchester-- the city she considers her home turf. The two timelines work together well: the present day and the second during World War II. In fact, the World War II timeline brought to light some things that I was unaware of, but I'm not going to go into any detail because once I start, I may give something away.
If you have the slightest interest in history, in fast-paced mysteries, and in strong, intelligent female characters, you should give M.J. Lee's Jayne Sinclair series a try. These books are really good.
June 16, 2020
I thought I had read all of the Jayne Sinclair books in sequence, but somehow this particular one eluded me, until now. Not really a problem as I simply fitted her back story, which is really only indirectly relevant to the main narrative, into its place and moved on. As an amateur genealogist of long standing, I started the study of my own family in 1962, I love these stories which bring to life the real word detective needs if the family historian.
The World War 2 German background was interesting but only of passing interest to my own studies. I just have a single German immigrant in one of the family trees in which I am interested and he was naturalised in the nineteenth century, the period however is always an area that deserves to be brought once again to mind, to consider that there is good, and evil, in all historical periods, just as today. In that sense this book was very relevant as lockdown for coronavirus reading
The World War 2 German background was interesting but only of passing interest to my own studies. I just have a single German immigrant in one of the family trees in which I am interested and he was naturalised in the nineteenth century, the period however is always an area that deserves to be brought once again to mind, to consider that there is good, and evil, in all historical periods, just as today. In that sense this book was very relevant as lockdown for coronavirus reading
June 6, 2019
Very enjoyable
Jayne investigates the ancestors of a potential presidential candidate. Her investigation takes her to information about WW II. Many people are not who they seem, and it is a game of hide and seek. Suspenseful and interesting if very sad in parts.
Jayne investigates the ancestors of a potential presidential candidate. Her investigation takes her to information about WW II. Many people are not who they seem, and it is a game of hide and seek. Suspenseful and interesting if very sad in parts.
August 27, 2017
Having really enjoyed The Somme Legacy, I was looking forward to this book. I like the character of Jayne Sinclair and I also love the genealogical aspects to the books.
In this novel, Jayne is asked to look into the family background of a possible US Presidential candidate. When the man who hired her is shot dead in front her, Jayne is thrown headlong into a fight for survival. Who is chasing her and why are they trying to stop her from finding out the truth?
This is uncomfortable reading at times, but I won't go into details as it would spoil the suspense for others.
The reason I loved the previous book so much was that it was thrilling without being violent. I really liked the premise of this one, it is a compelling delve into family skeletons during a very dark period in history, I didn't think it needed the distraction of threats to life. The central story is strong enough on its own. This is just my personal opinion, I know many readers will love that aspect of the book.
Although I rate this 3.5 stars, in comparison to the previous book, it is a good, page turning read and I would recommend the series.
My thanks to TBConFB and the author for this copy.
In this novel, Jayne is asked to look into the family background of a possible US Presidential candidate. When the man who hired her is shot dead in front her, Jayne is thrown headlong into a fight for survival. Who is chasing her and why are they trying to stop her from finding out the truth?
This is uncomfortable reading at times, but I won't go into details as it would spoil the suspense for others.
The reason I loved the previous book so much was that it was thrilling without being violent. I really liked the premise of this one, it is a compelling delve into family skeletons during a very dark period in history, I didn't think it needed the distraction of threats to life. The central story is strong enough on its own. This is just my personal opinion, I know many readers will love that aspect of the book.
Although I rate this 3.5 stars, in comparison to the previous book, it is a good, page turning read and I would recommend the series.
My thanks to TBConFB and the author for this copy.
March 8, 2025
Good reading
Love the way the author weaves the story back in time and the present. Genealogy is fascinating to me. Great story telling.
Love the way the author weaves the story back in time and the present. Genealogy is fascinating to me. Great story telling.
May 31, 2019
A Good Read
The American Candidate is a fine addition to the Jayne Sinclair series. Plenty of tension, but I must admit that I figured out the bad guys early on. Despite that, the story moves nicely, switching time periods seamlessly. I'm glad I found the Jayne Sinclair books as I'm interested in genealogy. Weaving a dramatic story into past and current events is a nice touch.
The American Candidate is a fine addition to the Jayne Sinclair series. Plenty of tension, but I must admit that I figured out the bad guys early on. Despite that, the story moves nicely, switching time periods seamlessly. I'm glad I found the Jayne Sinclair books as I'm interested in genealogy. Weaving a dramatic story into past and current events is a nice touch.
April 23, 2022
Swastikas and Union Jack
Lots of action in this book. Run, run, run. Hide, hide, hide. One of the main threads throughout this interesting tale is a daughter's love for her father. Lots of emotions within these chapters. Jayne's quick wit and intelligence, along with her past history as a police detective help carry out highly intelligent movements. The author goes to great lengths to trace British and Irish history, as well as German. So many details concerning military history and the treatment of the Jews. Some very descriptive scenes were laid out describing the horror of the battle front, as well as the bloody slaughter of innocent Jewish women, children and older men.
Jayne is a true go getter!
Lots of action in this book. Run, run, run. Hide, hide, hide. One of the main threads throughout this interesting tale is a daughter's love for her father. Lots of emotions within these chapters. Jayne's quick wit and intelligence, along with her past history as a police detective help carry out highly intelligent movements. The author goes to great lengths to trace British and Irish history, as well as German. So many details concerning military history and the treatment of the Jews. Some very descriptive scenes were laid out describing the horror of the battle front, as well as the bloody slaughter of innocent Jewish women, children and older men.
Jayne is a true go getter!
December 4, 2024
I found this book very confronting on many levels. Perhaps the fact that a genealogist would put herself at such a high risk to find out the past family history of a rather vacuous man with a particularly pushy wife, was a little far fetched to me. I did however find the historical facts behind the British Union of Fascists of interest. The author pushes the boundaries on issues of antisemitism, homophobia, violence and death which I frequently found unpalatable and sensationalised and perhaps it just wasn’t the right book for me. At least i learnt a small fact about English history.
October 23, 2021
Well Written
The American Candidate is well written with a tightly woven plot. As Jayne works to uncover Thomas Jackson’s secrets things really heat up. I certainly didn’t see the final scene coming. Like the two previous books in the series I couldn’t put it down.
The American Candidate is well written with a tightly woven plot. As Jayne works to uncover Thomas Jackson’s secrets things really heat up. I certainly didn’t see the final scene coming. Like the two previous books in the series I couldn’t put it down.
January 23, 2022
This is the third Jayne Sinclair mystery I have read. It is just as excellent as the first two! Jayne's character is strong, the plot is intriguing, and the ending, well, you'll have to read the book to find out! Very well done, M.J. Lee!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews