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A Blood Thing
Never trust a blackmailer.
Vermont’s promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet-and-greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, “Keep this with you…keep it secret…you’re going to need it after the arrest.”
Hours later, Andrew’s brother, Tyler, is taken into custody—framed for the brutal murder of a young woman—and Andrew discovers there is only one way to free answer the mysterious phone and agree to a blackmailer’s demands. All the governor has to do to make it all go away is compromise everything he stands for and grant a full pardon to a convicted felon. With no better option, he complies. Which is his first mistake…because the stranger isn’t through with him. He has another little condition. Then another. And another. And Andrew has no choice but to play along until he can find a way out of this personal and political nightmare. But he isn’t prepared for what he will face, or how far he will have to go to save his brother and keep his family together.
Vermont’s promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet-and-greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, “Keep this with you…keep it secret…you’re going to need it after the arrest.”
Hours later, Andrew’s brother, Tyler, is taken into custody—framed for the brutal murder of a young woman—and Andrew discovers there is only one way to free answer the mysterious phone and agree to a blackmailer’s demands. All the governor has to do to make it all go away is compromise everything he stands for and grant a full pardon to a convicted felon. With no better option, he complies. Which is his first mistake…because the stranger isn’t through with him. He has another little condition. Then another. And another. And Andrew has no choice but to play along until he can find a way out of this personal and political nightmare. But he isn’t prepared for what he will face, or how far he will have to go to save his brother and keep his family together.
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2018
642 people are currently reading
2181 people want to read
About the author
James Hankins
7 books257 followersUSA Today bestselling author James Hankins's newest novel of suspense, A BLOOD THING, came out on June 5, 2018. Each of his previous thrillers (including THE PRETTIEST ONE, SHADY CROSS, BROTHERS AND BONES, and more) spent time in the Kindle Top 100 and became Amazon #1 bestsellers, while THE PRETTIEST ONE reached #1 across all categories in the Kindle Store. SHADY CROSS received a coveted starred review from Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews gave BROTHERS a starred review and named it to their list of Best Books of 2013. (PLEASE NOTE that there are others who publish under the name James Hankins, so please see James's website for a complete list of his books.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 27, 2018
James Hankins will always hold a special place inside my heart, because if it wasn't for him, I probably wouldn't have found my way back to reading. It was his novel The Prettiest One that made me fall in love with books all over again. One could say he's even created a monster. With that said, that speaks highly of James Hankins as an author and writer, that he could pull someone out of such a deep, deep funk. That is why, to this day, he remains one of my favorite authors.
With A Blood Thing, I found this one to be a bit different than Hankins typical style. Normally, we see a lot of action from Hankins and his well developed characters. However, in A Blood Thing, we see less action, but more of a methodical plot. If I'm being honest, I'm not sure which I prefer more. I was very impressed with how well this novel came together. I do love a thriller with a psychological aspect to it, and this one definitely provides that.
At the center of this novel is the Kane family, Andrew, the oldest of the Kane siblings is the Governor of Vermont. It's just another typical day for the Governor, a busy day, but again, that's typical. At a grand opening for a new senior center and meet-and-greet, Andrew is given a small black phone with an ominous message... "Keep that phone with you at all times, Governor. And keep it secret. You're going to need it after the arrest." What the hell? Was this a warning? A threat? Whose arrest is he speaking of? Should he keep the phone or turn it over to the police? Andrew isn't sure what to do exactly, but he decides to call his brother Henry, an officer in Internal Affairs.
Before Andrew and Henry can begin their investigation into the mysterious black cell phone, their sister Molly calls, their younger brother, Tyler, Molly's twin, is missing. Tyler, suffered an injury as a child that has left him mentally challenged. Though a man, at the age of 29, in many ways, he still has the mind of a child. Molly is concerned because Tyler never stays gone this long, something isn't right, she can feel it. Henry rushes over to help in the search for Tyler, only it's not long before Tyler walks in the door, with the police shortly on his heels... armed with a search warrant. Tyler is suspected of murder. Alarm bells are sounding in Henry's head. Something isn't right... he calls his brother Andrew and advises him of the trouble their younger brother is facing. It's clear now... the arrest... the cell phone... the man is talking about Tyler!
Tyler is arrested for the murder of Sally Graham. As Andrew and Henry debate over turning over the mystery phone to the police, it rings. It's clear that Tyler has been framed for murder and their mystery caller holds the key to his release. Only it won't be so simple. Andrew is being blackmailed... he is being asked to pardon a man from prison in exchange for evidence that will prove Tyler's innocence. Only there are rules... rules that must be followed, and if broken there will be consequences, ones that will not only seal Tyler's fate in prison, but also put Andrew and Henry's careers in jeopardy.
This is a twisted game that the Kane family are taken through. I thought the character development that was given to the blackmailer, Wyatt Pickman was carefully crafted. He was a planner, and once the "plan" started to go off course, we start to see him devolve. His demise is basically his own undoing and one could call it poetic justice.
One thing that I always enjoy about James Hankins novels is his protagonists aren't always the wholesome, innocent heroes you come to expect. They're flawed, and they're often placed in situations that leave you faced with impossible decisions. This makes the storyline more credible and you connect to the characters.
This is an excellent psychological thriller that I highly recommend. It's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat with anticipation.
I want to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and James Hankins for allowing me the chance to read this novel in exchange for my review. A pleasure as always Mr. Hankins!
With A Blood Thing, I found this one to be a bit different than Hankins typical style. Normally, we see a lot of action from Hankins and his well developed characters. However, in A Blood Thing, we see less action, but more of a methodical plot. If I'm being honest, I'm not sure which I prefer more. I was very impressed with how well this novel came together. I do love a thriller with a psychological aspect to it, and this one definitely provides that.
At the center of this novel is the Kane family, Andrew, the oldest of the Kane siblings is the Governor of Vermont. It's just another typical day for the Governor, a busy day, but again, that's typical. At a grand opening for a new senior center and meet-and-greet, Andrew is given a small black phone with an ominous message... "Keep that phone with you at all times, Governor. And keep it secret. You're going to need it after the arrest." What the hell? Was this a warning? A threat? Whose arrest is he speaking of? Should he keep the phone or turn it over to the police? Andrew isn't sure what to do exactly, but he decides to call his brother Henry, an officer in Internal Affairs.
Before Andrew and Henry can begin their investigation into the mysterious black cell phone, their sister Molly calls, their younger brother, Tyler, Molly's twin, is missing. Tyler, suffered an injury as a child that has left him mentally challenged. Though a man, at the age of 29, in many ways, he still has the mind of a child. Molly is concerned because Tyler never stays gone this long, something isn't right, she can feel it. Henry rushes over to help in the search for Tyler, only it's not long before Tyler walks in the door, with the police shortly on his heels... armed with a search warrant. Tyler is suspected of murder. Alarm bells are sounding in Henry's head. Something isn't right... he calls his brother Andrew and advises him of the trouble their younger brother is facing. It's clear now... the arrest... the cell phone... the man is talking about Tyler!
Tyler is arrested for the murder of Sally Graham. As Andrew and Henry debate over turning over the mystery phone to the police, it rings. It's clear that Tyler has been framed for murder and their mystery caller holds the key to his release. Only it won't be so simple. Andrew is being blackmailed... he is being asked to pardon a man from prison in exchange for evidence that will prove Tyler's innocence. Only there are rules... rules that must be followed, and if broken there will be consequences, ones that will not only seal Tyler's fate in prison, but also put Andrew and Henry's careers in jeopardy.
This is a twisted game that the Kane family are taken through. I thought the character development that was given to the blackmailer, Wyatt Pickman was carefully crafted. He was a planner, and once the "plan" started to go off course, we start to see him devolve. His demise is basically his own undoing and one could call it poetic justice.
One thing that I always enjoy about James Hankins novels is his protagonists aren't always the wholesome, innocent heroes you come to expect. They're flawed, and they're often placed in situations that leave you faced with impossible decisions. This makes the storyline more credible and you connect to the characters.
This is an excellent psychological thriller that I highly recommend. It's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat with anticipation.
I want to thank NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and James Hankins for allowing me the chance to read this novel in exchange for my review. A pleasure as always Mr. Hankins!
April 1, 2018
4.5 Suspenseful Stars.
Would you compromise your ethics to help someone you love? Could you go against everything you stand for to right a wrong? Break the law? These are some of the questions facing the Kane family in A Blood Thing by James Hankins. Andrew Kane is the young new Vermont governor and oldest brother Henry is a Vermont State Police working in Internal Affairs. The youngest siblings, Molly and Tyler are twins; Molly is a veteran who is attending graduate school and will likely pursue a career in law enforcement. Molly lives in the old family mansion with Tyler who is developmentally delayed due to a traumatic brain injury that occurred when he was seven-years-old. Each sibling has their own reason to feel responsible for Tyler’s debilitating accident. For generations the Kane family has been prominent in Vermont politics and Andrew is the fresh, ethical face of politics. But when Tyler is accused of a heinous crime, and a blackmailer contacts the Governor, the suspense begins. To save Tyler, the Governor is asked to betray his strict moral code. How far will he go to clear his brother’s name?
Hankins kept me guessing until the end. This is a well written thriller with complex characters and an original premise. While page turner is an overused term in book reviews, A Blood Thing is just that. I enjoyed this book from page one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. The book will be released on June 5, 2018.
Would you compromise your ethics to help someone you love? Could you go against everything you stand for to right a wrong? Break the law? These are some of the questions facing the Kane family in A Blood Thing by James Hankins. Andrew Kane is the young new Vermont governor and oldest brother Henry is a Vermont State Police working in Internal Affairs. The youngest siblings, Molly and Tyler are twins; Molly is a veteran who is attending graduate school and will likely pursue a career in law enforcement. Molly lives in the old family mansion with Tyler who is developmentally delayed due to a traumatic brain injury that occurred when he was seven-years-old. Each sibling has their own reason to feel responsible for Tyler’s debilitating accident. For generations the Kane family has been prominent in Vermont politics and Andrew is the fresh, ethical face of politics. But when Tyler is accused of a heinous crime, and a blackmailer contacts the Governor, the suspense begins. To save Tyler, the Governor is asked to betray his strict moral code. How far will he go to clear his brother’s name?
Hankins kept me guessing until the end. This is a well written thriller with complex characters and an original premise. While page turner is an overused term in book reviews, A Blood Thing is just that. I enjoyed this book from page one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. The book will be released on June 5, 2018.
May 31, 2018
How far would YOU go to protect your family, your dearest loved ones? Many novels may ask this question, but Hankins provides a slightly new spin on this age old question by adding in some political intrigue and corruption as well as some domestic suspense making for a tense read that had me hooked.
This follows the Kane family as they deal with a manipulative and highly intelligent blackmailer who is intent on wreacking havoc on every single one of them. This is a family of prominence and wealth, plenty of power especially as the oldest sibling is the Governor of Vermont. I didn’t necessarily love most of the family barring Tyler, that kid stole my heart with his pure innocence, but I was rooting for them regardless because they were dealing with a nightmare of a situation that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. They were all very well drawn even if they were unsympathetic for the most part and Hankins is a great writer with a true talent for storytelling.
I would recommend this one for fans of Brad Parks, it definitely had a similar feel to it with plenty of sharp turns and tense moments. It did feel a little drawn out in the middle portion, but the ending was exciting enough to make up for any slower moments for me.
A Blood Thing in three words: Calculated, Intense and Vengeful.
This follows the Kane family as they deal with a manipulative and highly intelligent blackmailer who is intent on wreacking havoc on every single one of them. This is a family of prominence and wealth, plenty of power especially as the oldest sibling is the Governor of Vermont. I didn’t necessarily love most of the family barring Tyler, that kid stole my heart with his pure innocence, but I was rooting for them regardless because they were dealing with a nightmare of a situation that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. They were all very well drawn even if they were unsympathetic for the most part and Hankins is a great writer with a true talent for storytelling.
I would recommend this one for fans of Brad Parks, it definitely had a similar feel to it with plenty of sharp turns and tense moments. It did feel a little drawn out in the middle portion, but the ending was exciting enough to make up for any slower moments for me.
A Blood Thing in three words: Calculated, Intense and Vengeful.
June 5, 2018
From the bestselling author of The Inside Dark, The Prettiest One, and Shady Cross —comes his most influential book yet, A BLOOD THING. A riveting emotional and character-driven political suspense thriller which tests the limits of how far a person will go to protect his family and those he loves.
Meet the Kane family.
Vermont Governor Andrew Kane — the youngest person to be elected governor in Vermont’s history—age thirty-two. His father and grandfather were respected senators and a great-grandfather, a distinguished federal judge. Husband, Brother, Father.
Lieutenant Henry Kane —Internal Affairs. Brother of Governor, Andrew Kane; Tyler and Molly
Molly Kane —Sister. Former US Army and Aspiring Vermont State Police Officer. Twin Sister of Brother Tyler, Governor Andrew, and IA Henry.
Tyler Kane —Twin Brother of Sister Molly. Age 29. Suffered traumatic brain injury when he was seven years old which had permanently damaged him. His mental age was that of an eleven-year-old boy. He volunteers at the local animal shelter—lover of video games and his electric motorcycle bike.
Rebecca Kane—Wife of Governor Andrew Kane.
Life changed for the Kane family the day Governor Andrew Kane received a black mystery phone with the message:
“Keep that phone with you at all times, Governor. And keep it a secret. You’re going to need it after the arrest.”
Kane had followed another political candidate of corruption and scandal. Andrew Kane was honest. He made good on his promises. However, when a blackmailer issues demands, he puts the family and his career in jeopardy.
The younger brother, Tyler has been set up. Arrested for the murder of a woman Sally Graham. They had incriminating evidence. Could Tyler have known this girl and engaged her services? Were they aware that Tyler and the governor’s brother was in the state police Internal Affairs Unit? Henry was the IAU.
It was hard to comprehend an innocent Tyler had anything to do with the murder. They could not allow him to go to jail. The only violence he ever exhibited occurred during his video games. Tyler could not intentionally harm anyone, much less kill them.
The blackmailer begins his games. Never trust a blackmailer. It never stops with one demand. He keeps them on a chain with ongoing threats. What does he want from this family?
It starts with a demand to release a prisoner in a correctional facility. The blackmailer demands him to be pardoned, free and clear. Otherwise, his younger brother will go down for first-degree murder and spend the rest of his days in prison.
However, this is only the beginning. There is something more sinister at play. The blackmailer is smart and dangerous. He had the perfect plan.
How far should you go to protect your family? How could Andrew barter with a murderer for his brother’s freedom? How could he use the power of his office to set a convicted criminal free in exchange for services rendered—while at the same time looking the other way as the real murderer disappeared?
He had promised Vermonters an end to government corruption. Now here he was debating whether to breach that trust. The trust of the people he had earned. For the first time since taking the oath of office more than three years ago, he felt less than clean.
However, he may have to protect more than one brother. Innocent people become collateral damage. Blood ties are substantial; yet, the murderer may also have his own blood ties with revenge and justice on his mind.
Brothers join forces to keep a blackmailer and the person behind the master plan from forces that are conspiring to destroy their family. Even people in high places have flaws, and the author showcases their strengths and weaknesses.
Hankins delivers an outstanding character-driven thriller with a mix of mystery, political, psychological, legal, crime, and domestic suspense. A remarkable plot and complex characters with a race against time to protect loved ones in this high stakes conspiracy— leading to an explosive ending, not to be missed.
From the personal and professional lives of political figures and law enforcement officials, targeted for past grudges and placed in challenging circumstances. When family members are involved, lines are crossed.
With unparalleled suspense and his own trademark explosive twists, James Hankins continues to wow readers with his uncanny ability to cross many genres. As I have mentioned previously in my other reviews—have read all the author’s books, and each one is unique.
Highly entertaining! An intense well-written political thriller— A BLOOD THING is a perfect gift for Father’s Day! Top 20 Books Coming June 2018.
A special thank you to the author, #NetGalley and #ThomasandMercer for an early reading copy.
JDCMustReadBooks
Meet the Kane family.
Vermont Governor Andrew Kane — the youngest person to be elected governor in Vermont’s history—age thirty-two. His father and grandfather were respected senators and a great-grandfather, a distinguished federal judge. Husband, Brother, Father.
Lieutenant Henry Kane —Internal Affairs. Brother of Governor, Andrew Kane; Tyler and Molly
Molly Kane —Sister. Former US Army and Aspiring Vermont State Police Officer. Twin Sister of Brother Tyler, Governor Andrew, and IA Henry.
Tyler Kane —Twin Brother of Sister Molly. Age 29. Suffered traumatic brain injury when he was seven years old which had permanently damaged him. His mental age was that of an eleven-year-old boy. He volunteers at the local animal shelter—lover of video games and his electric motorcycle bike.
Rebecca Kane—Wife of Governor Andrew Kane.
Life changed for the Kane family the day Governor Andrew Kane received a black mystery phone with the message:
“Keep that phone with you at all times, Governor. And keep it a secret. You’re going to need it after the arrest.”
Kane had followed another political candidate of corruption and scandal. Andrew Kane was honest. He made good on his promises. However, when a blackmailer issues demands, he puts the family and his career in jeopardy.
The younger brother, Tyler has been set up. Arrested for the murder of a woman Sally Graham. They had incriminating evidence. Could Tyler have known this girl and engaged her services? Were they aware that Tyler and the governor’s brother was in the state police Internal Affairs Unit? Henry was the IAU.
It was hard to comprehend an innocent Tyler had anything to do with the murder. They could not allow him to go to jail. The only violence he ever exhibited occurred during his video games. Tyler could not intentionally harm anyone, much less kill them.
The blackmailer begins his games. Never trust a blackmailer. It never stops with one demand. He keeps them on a chain with ongoing threats. What does he want from this family?
It starts with a demand to release a prisoner in a correctional facility. The blackmailer demands him to be pardoned, free and clear. Otherwise, his younger brother will go down for first-degree murder and spend the rest of his days in prison.
However, this is only the beginning. There is something more sinister at play. The blackmailer is smart and dangerous. He had the perfect plan.
How far should you go to protect your family? How could Andrew barter with a murderer for his brother’s freedom? How could he use the power of his office to set a convicted criminal free in exchange for services rendered—while at the same time looking the other way as the real murderer disappeared?
He had promised Vermonters an end to government corruption. Now here he was debating whether to breach that trust. The trust of the people he had earned. For the first time since taking the oath of office more than three years ago, he felt less than clean.
However, he may have to protect more than one brother. Innocent people become collateral damage. Blood ties are substantial; yet, the murderer may also have his own blood ties with revenge and justice on his mind.
Brothers join forces to keep a blackmailer and the person behind the master plan from forces that are conspiring to destroy their family. Even people in high places have flaws, and the author showcases their strengths and weaknesses.
Hankins delivers an outstanding character-driven thriller with a mix of mystery, political, psychological, legal, crime, and domestic suspense. A remarkable plot and complex characters with a race against time to protect loved ones in this high stakes conspiracy— leading to an explosive ending, not to be missed.
From the personal and professional lives of political figures and law enforcement officials, targeted for past grudges and placed in challenging circumstances. When family members are involved, lines are crossed.
With unparalleled suspense and his own trademark explosive twists, James Hankins continues to wow readers with his uncanny ability to cross many genres. As I have mentioned previously in my other reviews—have read all the author’s books, and each one is unique.
Highly entertaining! An intense well-written political thriller— A BLOOD THING is a perfect gift for Father’s Day! Top 20 Books Coming June 2018.
A special thank you to the author, #NetGalley and #ThomasandMercer for an early reading copy.
JDCMustReadBooks
May 27, 2018
Well, that was good! James Hankins has written a fantastic thriller, that had me hanging off every page..
How far would you go to save your family? Govenor Andrew Kane is handed a phone and told to hold onto it because he would need it after the arrest. Then his younger brother Tyler is arrested for murder. The caller admits to to framing Tyler and says he will be ok if Andrew does just one small thing, and then another and another. There are so many twist in the story it makes you want to keep reading.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the advanced copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
How far would you go to save your family? Govenor Andrew Kane is handed a phone and told to hold onto it because he would need it after the arrest. Then his younger brother Tyler is arrested for murder. The caller admits to to framing Tyler and says he will be ok if Andrew does just one small thing, and then another and another. There are so many twist in the story it makes you want to keep reading.
Thanks to Thomas and Mercer for the advanced copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
November 4, 2018
I really didn't know what to expect from this and was kind of hoping it wouldn't be some psychotic fruitcake revelling in bloody body parts. Thankfully that wasn't it at all. This was a story about revenge, blackmail and shades of gray in the spectrum of right and wrong.
Never trust a blackmailer! "Vermont's promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet and greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, 'Keep this with you...keep it secret...you're going to need it after the arrest'." And so it begins.
Somebody has it in for the Kane family. They are wealthy and privileged. Andrew is the governor, Henry is with the Vermont Bureau of Investigation, Molly is ex- forces and studying for a career in law enforcement and Tyler, Molly's twin, is the vulnerable one. A childhood accident left him brain damaged and he has the intellect of an 11 year old. Tyler has just been framed for murder.
Eventually that phone rings. The blackmailer has video evidence of Tyler's innocence and will hand it over if Governor Andrew will just do one tiny little thing for him. Andrew says he won't be blackmailed but is told he WILL change his mind. Soon more evidence implicating Tyler is found. You can guess how it goes from here. Andrew finally relents but of course that is not the end of it. The blackmailer is relentless, implacable and very, very thorough. How will the Kane's stop him from utterly destroying their family, their careers and their very lives? Can they stop him?
Never trust a blackmailer! "Vermont's promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet and greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, 'Keep this with you...keep it secret...you're going to need it after the arrest'." And so it begins.
Somebody has it in for the Kane family. They are wealthy and privileged. Andrew is the governor, Henry is with the Vermont Bureau of Investigation, Molly is ex- forces and studying for a career in law enforcement and Tyler, Molly's twin, is the vulnerable one. A childhood accident left him brain damaged and he has the intellect of an 11 year old. Tyler has just been framed for murder.
Eventually that phone rings. The blackmailer has video evidence of Tyler's innocence and will hand it over if Governor Andrew will just do one tiny little thing for him. Andrew says he won't be blackmailed but is told he WILL change his mind. Soon more evidence implicating Tyler is found. You can guess how it goes from here. Andrew finally relents but of course that is not the end of it. The blackmailer is relentless, implacable and very, very thorough. How will the Kane's stop him from utterly destroying their family, their careers and their very lives? Can they stop him?
May 8, 2018
I read most books from James Hankins and I can say it only gets better with every new story. I'm not so much into political thrillers, blackmailing etc., but I choosed this one because I knew the author is good so it was ok to risk reading something a little outside my usual genre. I don't regret it.
The journey was very intense, I was so angry at the blackmailer I wanted to junp inside the book to kick him for good! The writing style is superb and the characterization is perfect, even Tyler, the sweet and a little retarded brother, is so well portrayed and believable in his way to think and act. I think that wasn't an easy task for the author!
The ending is very fitting althought I was hoping for something a little different. I can't say more because I don't want to spoil it and because it was just me. You will know when you're reading that some things once they're out in the clear cannot be taken back so don't expect some magic to put everything in order. I think the author couldn't have done better anyway to tie up every thread in a meaningful and satisfying outcome, it's life, so you can't have everything you wish for, but the message is clear. Don't forget to read the author's note in the end in case you have any doubts about it!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
The journey was very intense, I was so angry at the blackmailer I wanted to junp inside the book to kick him for good! The writing style is superb and the characterization is perfect, even Tyler, the sweet and a little retarded brother, is so well portrayed and believable in his way to think and act. I think that wasn't an easy task for the author!
The ending is very fitting althought I was hoping for something a little different. I can't say more because I don't want to spoil it and because it was just me. You will know when you're reading that some things once they're out in the clear cannot be taken back so don't expect some magic to put everything in order. I think the author couldn't have done better anyway to tie up every thread in a meaningful and satisfying outcome, it's life, so you can't have everything you wish for, but the message is clear. Don't forget to read the author's note in the end in case you have any doubts about it!
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for giving me ARC of that book in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2018
Thank you so very much to Amazon Publishing for my free copy of A BLOOD THING by James Hankins - all opinions are my own.
This book had be hooked from start to finish with some very tense and intense scenes. The story centers on the Kane family, a well to do, powerful family who is being blackmailed. The eldest brother, Andrew is the governor of Vermont and his brother, Tyler was framed for murder. Now the entire family is being tormented by a mysterious caller who asks for one demand after another. How far will Andrew go to protect his family? Will he compromise his own ethics? This twisted game is a political and psychological nightmare.
This is a methodical and original plot with complex characters and sharp writing that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Hankins is a master storyteller! It shows true talent when you create unsympathetic characters, like some of the Kane siblings, that without a doubt the reader roots for anyways. The blackmailer is extremely intelligent and perfectly written. The novel does run long but that didn’t bother me - I enjoyed the ride!
A BLOOD THING has a mix of everything from political intrigue to domestic suspense to crime and psychological thrills - all with a spectacular ending! I’ll definitely pick up more books by Hankins in the future.
This book had be hooked from start to finish with some very tense and intense scenes. The story centers on the Kane family, a well to do, powerful family who is being blackmailed. The eldest brother, Andrew is the governor of Vermont and his brother, Tyler was framed for murder. Now the entire family is being tormented by a mysterious caller who asks for one demand after another. How far will Andrew go to protect his family? Will he compromise his own ethics? This twisted game is a political and psychological nightmare.
This is a methodical and original plot with complex characters and sharp writing that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Hankins is a master storyteller! It shows true talent when you create unsympathetic characters, like some of the Kane siblings, that without a doubt the reader roots for anyways. The blackmailer is extremely intelligent and perfectly written. The novel does run long but that didn’t bother me - I enjoyed the ride!
A BLOOD THING has a mix of everything from political intrigue to domestic suspense to crime and psychological thrills - all with a spectacular ending! I’ll definitely pick up more books by Hankins in the future.
September 19, 2018
Vermont Governor (Andrew Kane) is blackmailed into saving his brother (Tyler), who is being framed for murder.
Even though Governor Kane ran and won his campaign by speaking out against corruption in the government, he is now being forced to take sides. Will he choose his reputation and career, or will he risk it all to save Tyler?
I'm not a huge Mystery fan, but this one. This one intrigued me. Why, you ask? Because Tyler tugged at my heartstrings. Even though Tyler is a 29 year old man, he was injured in a fall as a child and now has the mental capacity of an 11 year old boy. And, as if that weren't enough, he also is being framed for murder. A murder he definitely didn't commit. Who was framing him and why? How far will Governor Kane and his siblings, Henry and Molly, go to save their sibling from evil? Read this well-written, dark and twisty mystery to find out!
I would recommend A Blood Thing for fans of the TV shows, Homeland and Revenge!
Other notable characters included:
* Henry Kane - Andrew's younger brother, works in Internal Affairs
* Molly Kane - Andrew's younger sister, Tyler's twin, an Army veteran, studying to be a police officer
* Sally Graham - the murdered young woman
* Julie Davenport - helps care for Tyler
* Rachel Addison - Tyler's defense attorney
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Location: Vermont
Even though Governor Kane ran and won his campaign by speaking out against corruption in the government, he is now being forced to take sides. Will he choose his reputation and career, or will he risk it all to save Tyler?
I'm not a huge Mystery fan, but this one. This one intrigued me. Why, you ask? Because Tyler tugged at my heartstrings. Even though Tyler is a 29 year old man, he was injured in a fall as a child and now has the mental capacity of an 11 year old boy. And, as if that weren't enough, he also is being framed for murder. A murder he definitely didn't commit. Who was framing him and why? How far will Governor Kane and his siblings, Henry and Molly, go to save their sibling from evil? Read this well-written, dark and twisty mystery to find out!
I would recommend A Blood Thing for fans of the TV shows, Homeland and Revenge!
Other notable characters included:
* Henry Kane - Andrew's younger brother, works in Internal Affairs
* Molly Kane - Andrew's younger sister, Tyler's twin, an Army veteran, studying to be a police officer
* Sally Graham - the murdered young woman
* Julie Davenport - helps care for Tyler
* Rachel Addison - Tyler's defense attorney
I received an advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Location: Vermont
February 21, 2018
I received an ARC for an honest review:
A blood thing an exciting and gripping book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from page one till the last page is read.
Tyler the mentally challenged bother of the Vermont Governor is charged with murder. He is placed under house arrest after speaking to the police about what he had been doing the night of the murder. Andy the governor is given a black phone by a stranger and told to always keep it on him. He doesn't understand until the calls start coming in that it involves Tyler. Then you have brother Henry who is an internal fairs cop and he is the one who talks Andy into not telling the police. This all leads up to the mysterious blackmailer calling them and their sister Molly and entangling them into things they want no part of all to save Tyler from something he had no part in. In the end will Andy, Henry, and Molly be able to save Tyler from this mad man and his twisted planes?
This is one story that you will not be able to put down till the end and will keep you wanting more!
A blood thing an exciting and gripping book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from page one till the last page is read.
Tyler the mentally challenged bother of the Vermont Governor is charged with murder. He is placed under house arrest after speaking to the police about what he had been doing the night of the murder. Andy the governor is given a black phone by a stranger and told to always keep it on him. He doesn't understand until the calls start coming in that it involves Tyler. Then you have brother Henry who is an internal fairs cop and he is the one who talks Andy into not telling the police. This all leads up to the mysterious blackmailer calling them and their sister Molly and entangling them into things they want no part of all to save Tyler from something he had no part in. In the end will Andy, Henry, and Molly be able to save Tyler from this mad man and his twisted planes?
This is one story that you will not be able to put down till the end and will keep you wanting more!
June 5, 2018
First I will thank NetGalley for my copy of this book
It was my first by this author. While it was ok it just didn’t keep me wanting to read more. I like a book to pull me in and keep me interested. This one was easy to put down. I felt bad for the family in ways. The youngest who was brain damaged was sad indeed but the others not so much. I just could not get into them. THe blackmailer was very interesting. He sure kept things in order. But then all of a sudden it was like “what happened”. Did I miss something? I guess some will love this book but not me.
It was my first by this author. While it was ok it just didn’t keep me wanting to read more. I like a book to pull me in and keep me interested. This one was easy to put down. I felt bad for the family in ways. The youngest who was brain damaged was sad indeed but the others not so much. I just could not get into them. THe blackmailer was very interesting. He sure kept things in order. But then all of a sudden it was like “what happened”. Did I miss something? I guess some will love this book but not me.
April 14, 2018
A Blood Thing is the latest novel by James Hankins. Some edge of the seat moments and a lot of mentally telling the main characters not to do something and at the same time wondering would you would do in their place. I was given an early copy to review.
May 5, 2018
‘Never trust a blackmailer’
Massachusetts author James Hankins is not only a movie star handsome man he is also a highly successful and honored writer. In addition to these skills he has been active as a lawyer (receiving his degree from University of Connecticut School of Law), was in health administration and embraced screenwriting. Attending NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, he received the Chris Columbus Screenwriting Award. His six (to date) published books - SHADY CROSS, BROTHERS AND BONES, JACK OF SPADES, DRAWN and THE PRETTIEST ONE have been popular with the public and critics alike: now he adds A BLOOD THING. As James states, `I write novels. They're all thrillers, with elements of other genres as well -- mystery, suspense, police procedural, paranormal/supernatural. I try to write books that make you want to read one more page before turning out the light . . . and then another, and, well, maybe just one more . . . ` James lives with his wife and twin sons just north of Boston.
James Hankins is a name already established but soon to be tattooed on the signpost as one of America's most significant writers in his chosen genre of Thrillers. Where he comes up with the off beat characters that should not be immediately appealing and takes us through a transformative acquaintance by the end of his book where we are committed fans is a gift. And he accomplishes this in a conversational tone that seduces us into the darkness of a place we otherwise would avoid - that old urgency to see what is in a darkened deserted cellar that hasn't seen a light source for years.
A `for instance', in introducing his main theme he opens his book with this: ‘The man looked at Sally Graham’s body on the floor again, as he had done a few dozen times since killing her. Then he looked back down at a page in his black three-ring binder, taking a long moment to study the highly detailed pencil sketch he had made of the murder scene. He was largely satisfied. The position if the body seemed mostly right, lying on its back, one arm down by its side, the other flung out as if the woman had been reaching for something as she died. The bare legs looked close to correct, too, with her left straight and her right bent slightly at the knee. He knelt down and straightened the right leg just a touch. And there were two stab wounds on the body, in just the right places, and that big curving slice across her stomach – just like his sketch. As planned, the underwear she’d been wearing was in his pocket; he would dispose of it later. The soiled panties he’d brought with him were lying on her ravaged stomach where he’d dropped them, soaking up blood. He picked them up and slipped them into a Ziploc bag, then stood and stepped back to survey the scene again. A quick glance at the sketch told him that her hair was just a little wrong. He stepped close to the body again, leaned down, and brushed a few strands away from her cheek. He nodded. That looked right.’ And so we get the flavor that leads into the story.
The author's summary is terse: ` Vermont’s promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet-and-greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, “Keep this with you…keep it secret…you’re going to need it after the arrest. “Hours later, Andrew’s brother, Tyler, is taken into custody—framed for the brutal murder of a young woman—and Andrew discovers there is only one way to free him: answer the mysterious phone and agree to a blackmailer’s demands. All the governor has to do to make it all go away is compromise everything he stands for and grant a full pardon to a convicted felon. With no better option, he complies. Which is his first mistake…because the man on the phone isn’t through with him. He has another little condition. Then another. And another. And Andrew has no choice but to play along until he can find a way out of this personal and political nightmare. But he isn’t prepared for what he will face, or how far he will have to go to save his brother and keep his family together."
Defining what makes James' writing so fine is a tough task - reading him is a better approach than critiquing him. But this book is such a perfect craft that it may be his best novel yet. Highly Recommended.
Massachusetts author James Hankins is not only a movie star handsome man he is also a highly successful and honored writer. In addition to these skills he has been active as a lawyer (receiving his degree from University of Connecticut School of Law), was in health administration and embraced screenwriting. Attending NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, he received the Chris Columbus Screenwriting Award. His six (to date) published books - SHADY CROSS, BROTHERS AND BONES, JACK OF SPADES, DRAWN and THE PRETTIEST ONE have been popular with the public and critics alike: now he adds A BLOOD THING. As James states, `I write novels. They're all thrillers, with elements of other genres as well -- mystery, suspense, police procedural, paranormal/supernatural. I try to write books that make you want to read one more page before turning out the light . . . and then another, and, well, maybe just one more . . . ` James lives with his wife and twin sons just north of Boston.
James Hankins is a name already established but soon to be tattooed on the signpost as one of America's most significant writers in his chosen genre of Thrillers. Where he comes up with the off beat characters that should not be immediately appealing and takes us through a transformative acquaintance by the end of his book where we are committed fans is a gift. And he accomplishes this in a conversational tone that seduces us into the darkness of a place we otherwise would avoid - that old urgency to see what is in a darkened deserted cellar that hasn't seen a light source for years.
A `for instance', in introducing his main theme he opens his book with this: ‘The man looked at Sally Graham’s body on the floor again, as he had done a few dozen times since killing her. Then he looked back down at a page in his black three-ring binder, taking a long moment to study the highly detailed pencil sketch he had made of the murder scene. He was largely satisfied. The position if the body seemed mostly right, lying on its back, one arm down by its side, the other flung out as if the woman had been reaching for something as she died. The bare legs looked close to correct, too, with her left straight and her right bent slightly at the knee. He knelt down and straightened the right leg just a touch. And there were two stab wounds on the body, in just the right places, and that big curving slice across her stomach – just like his sketch. As planned, the underwear she’d been wearing was in his pocket; he would dispose of it later. The soiled panties he’d brought with him were lying on her ravaged stomach where he’d dropped them, soaking up blood. He picked them up and slipped them into a Ziploc bag, then stood and stepped back to survey the scene again. A quick glance at the sketch told him that her hair was just a little wrong. He stepped close to the body again, leaned down, and brushed a few strands away from her cheek. He nodded. That looked right.’ And so we get the flavor that leads into the story.
The author's summary is terse: ` Vermont’s promising young governor, Andrew Kane, is at another public meet-and-greet when a stranger from the crowd slips him a cell phone and whispers, “Keep this with you…keep it secret…you’re going to need it after the arrest. “Hours later, Andrew’s brother, Tyler, is taken into custody—framed for the brutal murder of a young woman—and Andrew discovers there is only one way to free him: answer the mysterious phone and agree to a blackmailer’s demands. All the governor has to do to make it all go away is compromise everything he stands for and grant a full pardon to a convicted felon. With no better option, he complies. Which is his first mistake…because the man on the phone isn’t through with him. He has another little condition. Then another. And another. And Andrew has no choice but to play along until he can find a way out of this personal and political nightmare. But he isn’t prepared for what he will face, or how far he will have to go to save his brother and keep his family together."
Defining what makes James' writing so fine is a tough task - reading him is a better approach than critiquing him. But this book is such a perfect craft that it may be his best novel yet. Highly Recommended.
September 15, 2025
Kept Me on My Toes
I downloaded this book to take with me on a road trip. I figured I’d read a few pages just to keep my Kindle streak going. I was immediately sucked into the storyline from the first chapter. I couldn’t wait to find out the motive of the mastermind. I was so invested in what he’d do next to blackmail the family. He was so twisted. With each new revelation, it left me wanting more. I was ready to get home and see how it would all unfold. The outcome did not disappoint. I loved all of the twists and turns. The plot was clever and creative. The pacing and suspense were great. If I had the time, I would’ve read it in one sitting. This was my first read from this author. I’m looking forward to reading more from his catalog.
I downloaded this book to take with me on a road trip. I figured I’d read a few pages just to keep my Kindle streak going. I was immediately sucked into the storyline from the first chapter. I couldn’t wait to find out the motive of the mastermind. I was so invested in what he’d do next to blackmail the family. He was so twisted. With each new revelation, it left me wanting more. I was ready to get home and see how it would all unfold. The outcome did not disappoint. I loved all of the twists and turns. The plot was clever and creative. The pacing and suspense were great. If I had the time, I would’ve read it in one sitting. This was my first read from this author. I’m looking forward to reading more from his catalog.
April 17, 2018
Keeps You Guessing...
I read a lot and can usually see the ending, as well as how the author is going to get there, early in the book. A Blood Thing had me thinking most of the time, "There's no way to get out of this one!" I was as frustrated as the characters in their predicament. Even when I could see the solution coming together in the end, there was one more surprise plot twist waiting for me. What a ride!
I have read all of James Hankins books. I am equally amazed at the quality of his well thought out plot lines and sorry when they end! Some authors churn out several books a year. James Hankins is an author whose books are worth the wait.
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.
I read a lot and can usually see the ending, as well as how the author is going to get there, early in the book. A Blood Thing had me thinking most of the time, "There's no way to get out of this one!" I was as frustrated as the characters in their predicament. Even when I could see the solution coming together in the end, there was one more surprise plot twist waiting for me. What a ride!
I have read all of James Hankins books. I am equally amazed at the quality of his well thought out plot lines and sorry when they end! Some authors churn out several books a year. James Hankins is an author whose books are worth the wait.
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.
August 14, 2018
His family. He would do anything for them. It maybe hard to understand but ...it's a blood thing
Andrew Kane, Governor of Vermont, was elected as a man of integrity. He has remained clean in the political process. He has fought the fight but a bigger fight is in store for him and his family. His brother Henry, a sworn officer of the law in Internal Affairs. His twin brother Tyler and sister Molly. Andrew being the oldest blames himself for the terrible accident that left Tyler with brain damage. It is a family that looks out for each other. A family that believes the best in each other.
That believe is tested when a man approaches Andrew during a rally with a phone and a menacing message. The message comes to light when Tyler is arrested for murder. The plot thickens.
When the mysterious phone rings with a request that only the governor of Vermont can make, the plot thickens some more. When the evidence begins to pile on Tyler an innocent pawn, the plot becomes thicker than water.
A family thriller with strong ties. Strong ties that are tested with what haunts integrity and family. What would you do for your family? How far would you go? What would you give up? Loved this one from beginning to end.
A Special Thank You to Thomas Mercer and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Andrew Kane, Governor of Vermont, was elected as a man of integrity. He has remained clean in the political process. He has fought the fight but a bigger fight is in store for him and his family. His brother Henry, a sworn officer of the law in Internal Affairs. His twin brother Tyler and sister Molly. Andrew being the oldest blames himself for the terrible accident that left Tyler with brain damage. It is a family that looks out for each other. A family that believes the best in each other.
That believe is tested when a man approaches Andrew during a rally with a phone and a menacing message. The message comes to light when Tyler is arrested for murder. The plot thickens.
When the mysterious phone rings with a request that only the governor of Vermont can make, the plot thickens some more. When the evidence begins to pile on Tyler an innocent pawn, the plot becomes thicker than water.
A family thriller with strong ties. Strong ties that are tested with what haunts integrity and family. What would you do for your family? How far would you go? What would you give up? Loved this one from beginning to end.
A Special Thank You to Thomas Mercer and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
May 31, 2018
James Hankins has outdone himself with A Blood Thing. As someone who has voraciously consumed all of his books, I speak with authority in recommending this to anyone who loves a twisted thriller that keeps you guessing until the end.
Each of his characters is interesting, compelling, and, at times, maddening (in other words, "human.") The book centers around serious ethical dilemmas Governor Andrew Kane--who was elected on a platform of integrity--faces when called upon to choose between family and professional duties. His slippery slide begins with a simple pardon of a minor crime in order to try to save his brain injured younger brother, Tyler, who is being framed for grisly murder. As the stakes grow exponentially, the entire family is drawn into a whirling eddy of complications and conflicts.
My favorite character is Molly Kane, Tyler's twin. Hankins has skillfully painted a multi-dimensional portrait of this character, who is incredibly strong, tough, and independent, yet painfully soft and gentle in her relationship with her disabled twin, for whom she is the chief care-taker.
I won't of course reveal the end, except to say that it's satisfyingly realistic. Don't miss this GOOD READ!
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.
Each of his characters is interesting, compelling, and, at times, maddening (in other words, "human.") The book centers around serious ethical dilemmas Governor Andrew Kane--who was elected on a platform of integrity--faces when called upon to choose between family and professional duties. His slippery slide begins with a simple pardon of a minor crime in order to try to save his brain injured younger brother, Tyler, who is being framed for grisly murder. As the stakes grow exponentially, the entire family is drawn into a whirling eddy of complications and conflicts.
My favorite character is Molly Kane, Tyler's twin. Hankins has skillfully painted a multi-dimensional portrait of this character, who is incredibly strong, tough, and independent, yet painfully soft and gentle in her relationship with her disabled twin, for whom she is the chief care-taker.
I won't of course reveal the end, except to say that it's satisfyingly realistic. Don't miss this GOOD READ!
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.
June 25, 2018
Very well written mystery that will leave you guessing until the end, then blow you away! I personally loved how this book was written. Its a very complex story line and the characters are so well developed! I have to give it a 5 star but wish I could go higher! If you love a great mystery, you must give this one a try!
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.”
I want to thank Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of this book so I could leave an honest, unbiased review.”
October 16, 2025
Holy smokes this book was good! So many different twists! Some people will go far to set an innocent person up just to get access to someone more important. Tyler is such a sweetheart and I felt so bad for what he had to go through. I listened to the audio version and it was so good!
December 11, 2025
3.5 rounding up
This was entertaining and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
Is the plot the best family mystery ever? No. But it’s easy to read, the characters are tolerable and it was engaging.
Guess people really are willing to go far to keep their secrets.
This was entertaining and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
Is the plot the best family mystery ever? No. But it’s easy to read, the characters are tolerable and it was engaging.
Guess people really are willing to go far to keep their secrets.
May 28, 2018
Interesting and well written but completely implausible premise. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Am sure others will like this more than I did. Am curious what readers in Vermont think.
June 13, 2018
From the very first page I was hooked. A murder and then blackmail. At times I wanted to scream at the characters, what are you doing? Knowing that their actions would unleash more harm to them. The blackmailer thought of everything. I just had to read to find out how the plot unfolded.
October 13, 2018
First of all, WOW! This is definitely a new favorite of mine! “A Blood Thing” is a thrilling read about the Kane family who are being blackmailed by a robotic mystery voice in a burner phone. The youngest brother of the family is being framed for murder and this family has to answer a hard question, how far will you go for your family? The twists in the book are so satisfying. The characters are relatable and show much growth throughout the book. The antagonist in this book made it stand out from others in its genre. This fast-paced thriller will have you questioning yourself, how far would you go for family?
January 21, 2022
Entertaining, though too highly predictable. Thus 3☆
July 18, 2018
I have enjoyed every book I’ve read by this author. This one made you think about what you would do in the same situation. And not knowing you could never pick the right solution???!! Oh, my!
November 9, 2025
This could definitely be a good movie!
April 29, 2019
Full review here
A Blood Thing is a mystery/thriller, exploring just how far you would go to protect someone you loved. With an intricately planned plot, strong characters and high tension throughout, it was an overall a solid read. Not one I’d rush back to re-read, but engaging and enjoyable as a stand-alone book.
Within the first chapters, I was gripped. When an innocent man – unable to properly defend himself – is framed for a grisly murder, his brothers must face difficult choices about how far they would go to protect him. The tension stems from the blackmailer: his absolute attention to detail goes beyond OCD contradicts his casual way of speaking – calling one brother “Governor Andy” through a voice changer gave me the shivers.
While the book kept my attention, there were times I felt it dragged a little bit. Something goes wrong, the blackmailer increases his demands/releases more incriminating material, things escalate… It was predictable in places: you didn’t know exactly what would happen, but you had already seen this scenario once, so you had a feeling of where it was going.
The type of book it was meant you also knew they would ultimately catch the bad guy. It would have been highly unsatisfying if they didn’t. Again, you didn’t know how, but you did know where it was eventually going to end.
However, I did thoroughly enjoy this. The characters made it for me. Tyler – the framed man – is completely innocent in more than one sense of the word and you really feel for him. All he wants is to help his family.
Andrew – the governor – and Henry – his cop brother – are decent men. It’s refreshing reading a thriller where they don’t have hidden vices like addictions. They are genuinely good men through and through and while they have skeletons in the closest, so to speak, they want to do what is right.
Andy is such a good man that you feel his pain at having to corrupt his values to protect his brother. Henry has a more spontaneous streak than his brother, but he will do whatever he has to – cross whatever line – to protect Tyler.
Their sister, Molly, is also a very capable character and won’t leave it to her big brothers to protect her twin; she too will play her part and anyone getting in her way will find out she is, in fact, ex-army, and able to do things her brothers can’t.
As mentioned, the pacing is steady throughout. Personally, I found the tension increased when the blackmailer’s plan starts to go wrong. The characters are split up, in trouble, and no one – including their blackmailer – is no longer sure what is going to happen next. It makes it incredibly engaging for the reader.
If you like a solid crime thriller; strong characters, intense plot and a sense of helplessness as they race to prove their brother’s innocence, then this is a definite recommendation. It didn’t blow me away, but it was an enjoyable read throughout.
A Blood Thing is a mystery/thriller, exploring just how far you would go to protect someone you loved. With an intricately planned plot, strong characters and high tension throughout, it was an overall a solid read. Not one I’d rush back to re-read, but engaging and enjoyable as a stand-alone book.
Within the first chapters, I was gripped. When an innocent man – unable to properly defend himself – is framed for a grisly murder, his brothers must face difficult choices about how far they would go to protect him. The tension stems from the blackmailer: his absolute attention to detail goes beyond OCD contradicts his casual way of speaking – calling one brother “Governor Andy” through a voice changer gave me the shivers.
While the book kept my attention, there were times I felt it dragged a little bit. Something goes wrong, the blackmailer increases his demands/releases more incriminating material, things escalate… It was predictable in places: you didn’t know exactly what would happen, but you had already seen this scenario once, so you had a feeling of where it was going.
The type of book it was meant you also knew they would ultimately catch the bad guy. It would have been highly unsatisfying if they didn’t. Again, you didn’t know how, but you did know where it was eventually going to end.
However, I did thoroughly enjoy this. The characters made it for me. Tyler – the framed man – is completely innocent in more than one sense of the word and you really feel for him. All he wants is to help his family.
Andrew – the governor – and Henry – his cop brother – are decent men. It’s refreshing reading a thriller where they don’t have hidden vices like addictions. They are genuinely good men through and through and while they have skeletons in the closest, so to speak, they want to do what is right.
Andy is such a good man that you feel his pain at having to corrupt his values to protect his brother. Henry has a more spontaneous streak than his brother, but he will do whatever he has to – cross whatever line – to protect Tyler.
Their sister, Molly, is also a very capable character and won’t leave it to her big brothers to protect her twin; she too will play her part and anyone getting in her way will find out she is, in fact, ex-army, and able to do things her brothers can’t.
As mentioned, the pacing is steady throughout. Personally, I found the tension increased when the blackmailer’s plan starts to go wrong. The characters are split up, in trouble, and no one – including their blackmailer – is no longer sure what is going to happen next. It makes it incredibly engaging for the reader.
If you like a solid crime thriller; strong characters, intense plot and a sense of helplessness as they race to prove their brother’s innocence, then this is a definite recommendation. It didn’t blow me away, but it was an enjoyable read throughout.
June 5, 2018
A Blood Thing is the first book I’ve read by James Hankins. Immediately following this review, I am putting every single other book of his on my want to read shelf. I absolutely love this book. It has everything I love in a good suspense - murder/blood, edge of your seat action, intrigue, and plot twists galore. I also loved the main villain and the workings of his brain, and some of the protagonists weren’t shiny, unblemished heroes. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys suspense.
April 7, 2018
A Blood Thing due out on June 5. A great read! Once I started, I could not put it down. Lots of suspense, twists and turns, and evil going on in this book. The love of family knows no bounds. Will check out more by this author.
August 2, 2018
Contrived and not up to Hankins lofty standards
I love this author. I'm from Massachusetts as he is. Brothers and Bonz remains one of the top 5 booms I have ever read. But this one simply wasn't any good. The whole thing would have been over in the first 8-10 chapters if he family had turned over certain evidence to the police. Evidence proving the good guys innocence. Yet they didn't do it. And the rest of the evolved in frustrating fashion from there. This reads more like a tale of morality than a crime thriller. Highly disappointed.
I love this author. I'm from Massachusetts as he is. Brothers and Bonz remains one of the top 5 booms I have ever read. But this one simply wasn't any good. The whole thing would have been over in the first 8-10 chapters if he family had turned over certain evidence to the police. Evidence proving the good guys innocence. Yet they didn't do it. And the rest of the evolved in frustrating fashion from there. This reads more like a tale of morality than a crime thriller. Highly disappointed.
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