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Tom Lange #2
Truth or Dead
A ruthless serial killer. A woman who will do anything to protect her daughters. A detective with revenge in his heart.
How far would you go to protect your kids?
On her drive to work, Heather Moss gets a phone call which will turn her life upside-down. The caller knows where her kids are, what they are wearing, and even what Heather is doing herself at that very moment. If she doesn’t do what he wants, her two little girls will die.
Then an inmate dies in the county jail. He was a witness who could have brought down notorious criminal Mario Palumbo.
Special Agent Tom Lange is trying to get his life back together after losing his brother Nick. He thinks Palumbo was responsible for the inmate’s death and maybe Nick’s too.
Tom desperately wants the evidence to point to Palumbo, but it doesn’t all add up, and soon there are more victims.
Can Tom capture a serial killer and protect Heather? He faces a terrible choice between the truth and justice.
Set in sultry Florida, this atmospheric thriller will keep you turning the pages till the stunning conclusion.
How far would you go to protect your kids?
On her drive to work, Heather Moss gets a phone call which will turn her life upside-down. The caller knows where her kids are, what they are wearing, and even what Heather is doing herself at that very moment. If she doesn’t do what he wants, her two little girls will die.
Then an inmate dies in the county jail. He was a witness who could have brought down notorious criminal Mario Palumbo.
Special Agent Tom Lange is trying to get his life back together after losing his brother Nick. He thinks Palumbo was responsible for the inmate’s death and maybe Nick’s too.
Tom desperately wants the evidence to point to Palumbo, but it doesn’t all add up, and soon there are more victims.
Can Tom capture a serial killer and protect Heather? He faces a terrible choice between the truth and justice.
Set in sultry Florida, this atmospheric thriller will keep you turning the pages till the stunning conclusion.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 11, 2017
333 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Brearton
46 books388 followersTimothy James Brearton lives in the Adirondack Mountains with his wife and three children. He's loved thrillers and police stories for most of his life. HABIT follows broken cop Brendan Healy down the rabbit hole of a human trafficking conspiracy. DEAD GONE delivers Florida cop Tom Lange into a criminal underworld and THE KILLING TIME introduces FBI agent Shannon Ames, a country girl in the big city.
http://tjbrearton.net/about
http://tjbrearton.net/about
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 17, 2017
If someone called you and told you that unless you did exactly what they wanted, they would kill your children .. what choice would you make?
This is what happens to social worker Heather Moss. What she did cost a county jail inmate his life. Did she know he was a witness who could have brought down a well known criminal?
Special Agent Tom Lange wants this hit to be placed firmly at the feet of Mario Palumbo, the man who killed his brother. But after meeting and investigating Heather Moss, he starts doubting the evidence.
Someone, it seems, is wanting to frame Palumbo .... a vigilante cop? a rival crime lord?
This is an excellent crime thriller, well written, with a terrific plot. There's lots of action, lots of bodies, and a guessing game as to who knows what and when and what does it all mean.
Lange has issues ... all kinds of issues he's dealing with. His brother's death ... mandatory therapy .. a recent break up with a girlfriend .. and someone knows about a secret he has.. one that could cost him everything.
Secondary character lend an air of credibility to the mix. His supervisor, who doesn't like .. or trust.. Lane. The bad guys are very bad. The good guys are really good. But which are which? Who do you trust when your life depends on the truth?
Many thanks to the author / Joffe Books / Netgalley for the advanced digital copy of this exciting crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 17, 2017
*I received this arc from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review*
Due to be published: 14th December 2017
Now I'm not going to lie, the synopsis for this book intrigued me but sadly I didn't enjoy. I really struggled to get through it and did think about DNF'ing it at one point, but that synopsis had me holding onto hope for something more. I haven't read a book by T.J Brearton before, but I am willing to give his books another chance because as I've come to learn, all authors have their 'good' books and their 'not so good' books, even really well-known authors. I also didn't realize this was book #2 of the Tom Lange series because it wasn't stated on Net Galley when I asked to review it, I just assumed it was a stand-alone unless stated otherwise.
When Heather Moss gets a call on her way to work, from someone claiming to be watching her children; describing what they are wearing, where they are, and what Heather herself is doing on the busy road on the way to work. They threaten to kill her two daughters if she doesn't do what they say- her life gets turned upside down the moment she picked up that phone.
An inmate dies whilst in the county jail, a witness who could have brought down crime boss Mario Palumbo. Is the crime boss behind whats happening?
That's what Special Agent Tom Lange wants to know. His brother was one of the many casualties due to relations with Mario Palumbo, and Lange wants nothing more than for this criminal to rot in jail, have Heather and her daughters safe and seek justice for his brother Nick.
The start of this novel was strong, it was fast-paced, captivating and had me on the edge of my seat but then there was a shift; it slowed right down, I lost interest in what was happening or who was behind everything- it's not like I don't like thrillers, so for me this was strange. There just wasn't anything that really wowed me besides the start which has me expecting so much more.
I don't think it was the writing itself, or the plot as a whole, but more about the characters.
I didn't really feel for any of them, I mean sure I cared about Heather and the girls at the start but as I kept reading I slowly lost interest in them too. There wasn't anything that made me feel connected to any of the characters and now that I think about it, I didn't really like any of them that much either.
Also, it felt like there was a slight attempt at romance, but was forgotten for most of the novel and then was remembered at the end. It wasn't something I enjoyed, there was no real effort, connection or spark between the two characters. Like there was but there wasn't. Things were spoken about but it wasn't shown, it didn't make you 'ship' them in anyway. Honestly, it might have been better to just leave the romance out of it.
I also didn't really like how everything was revealed towards the end, it felt like the evidence was going nowhere and then all of a sudden Lange had an epiphany and things just started being revealed all over the place. The 'who did it' as well was a little eh, it didn't have me like OMG, REALLY?! Was this because I had already lost interest? Or because it felt like it just came out of nowhere and there was no real build up or much show of this character throughout most of the novel?
I would definitely say the second one is more likely because I was still reading, hoping something would change my mind about what I had read up until that point.
I don't think this is a 'bad' book. I liked the plot and synopsis but not the characters, the romance, or the pacing. Maybe a lot of my problems would have been cleared up and made more sense had I read the first book, although I know it's not always necessary to do so in some cases. I think it would have made a big difference to my rating of this. Like I said, I will be giving T.J Brearton another go, I might even start with the first book and then alter my review of this if it does it fact change my opinions on this one, via the characters and the romance.
Don't let my review discourage you from reading this though, I think some people will like it and not struggle as much as I did.
If this does interest you, if you like the plot, mystery thrillers or the author's other books still give it a go. Not all books are for everyone, and even I have read books and loved them where others I know have not.
Recommened for: Thriller, Mystery.
Due to be published: 14th December 2017
Now I'm not going to lie, the synopsis for this book intrigued me but sadly I didn't enjoy. I really struggled to get through it and did think about DNF'ing it at one point, but that synopsis had me holding onto hope for something more. I haven't read a book by T.J Brearton before, but I am willing to give his books another chance because as I've come to learn, all authors have their 'good' books and their 'not so good' books, even really well-known authors. I also didn't realize this was book #2 of the Tom Lange series because it wasn't stated on Net Galley when I asked to review it, I just assumed it was a stand-alone unless stated otherwise.
When Heather Moss gets a call on her way to work, from someone claiming to be watching her children; describing what they are wearing, where they are, and what Heather herself is doing on the busy road on the way to work. They threaten to kill her two daughters if she doesn't do what they say- her life gets turned upside down the moment she picked up that phone.
An inmate dies whilst in the county jail, a witness who could have brought down crime boss Mario Palumbo. Is the crime boss behind whats happening?
That's what Special Agent Tom Lange wants to know. His brother was one of the many casualties due to relations with Mario Palumbo, and Lange wants nothing more than for this criminal to rot in jail, have Heather and her daughters safe and seek justice for his brother Nick.
The start of this novel was strong, it was fast-paced, captivating and had me on the edge of my seat but then there was a shift; it slowed right down, I lost interest in what was happening or who was behind everything- it's not like I don't like thrillers, so for me this was strange. There just wasn't anything that really wowed me besides the start which has me expecting so much more.
I don't think it was the writing itself, or the plot as a whole, but more about the characters.
I didn't really feel for any of them, I mean sure I cared about Heather and the girls at the start but as I kept reading I slowly lost interest in them too. There wasn't anything that made me feel connected to any of the characters and now that I think about it, I didn't really like any of them that much either.
Also, it felt like there was a slight attempt at romance, but was forgotten for most of the novel and then was remembered at the end. It wasn't something I enjoyed, there was no real effort, connection or spark between the two characters. Like there was but there wasn't. Things were spoken about but it wasn't shown, it didn't make you 'ship' them in anyway. Honestly, it might have been better to just leave the romance out of it.
I also didn't really like how everything was revealed towards the end, it felt like the evidence was going nowhere and then all of a sudden Lange had an epiphany and things just started being revealed all over the place. The 'who did it' as well was a little eh, it didn't have me like OMG, REALLY?! Was this because I had already lost interest? Or because it felt like it just came out of nowhere and there was no real build up or much show of this character throughout most of the novel?
I would definitely say the second one is more likely because I was still reading, hoping something would change my mind about what I had read up until that point.
I don't think this is a 'bad' book. I liked the plot and synopsis but not the characters, the romance, or the pacing. Maybe a lot of my problems would have been cleared up and made more sense had I read the first book, although I know it's not always necessary to do so in some cases. I think it would have made a big difference to my rating of this. Like I said, I will be giving T.J Brearton another go, I might even start with the first book and then alter my review of this if it does it fact change my opinions on this one, via the characters and the romance.
Don't let my review discourage you from reading this though, I think some people will like it and not struggle as much as I did.
If this does interest you, if you like the plot, mystery thrillers or the author's other books still give it a go. Not all books are for everyone, and even I have read books and loved them where others I know have not.
Recommened for: Thriller, Mystery.
December 22, 2017
I actually didn’t realise that this was the second book in a series. Not that it mattered as I found it really easy to read as a standalone.
Right from the off I knew this was going to be a tense and adrenaline fueled read and I wasn’t wrong! It pretty much plays out like an action film, well it did in my head anyway.
Heather is put in an impossible position of which I don’t think any of us know what we would do if we were to be in the same situation. Due to her actions, Special Agent Tom Lange enters her life in the hope of trying to protect her and the girls as well as getting behind who the caller is.
There is so much going on in this book. Don’t worry though as it’s easy to keep up with and with all the action as well as Tom’s background and the case, you certainly can’t complain about there not being enough within these pages to keep you hooked.
There is some great characterisation going on that has you caring about certain characters, so much so that you really get invested in their story.
Truth or Dead is an action packed read with plenty to thrill the reader. It’s a highly entertaining read that would be great as a crime series on television or even a movie. Ideal for readers who like a gripping and fast paced read.
My thanks to Jill Burkinshaw and Joffe Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Right from the off I knew this was going to be a tense and adrenaline fueled read and I wasn’t wrong! It pretty much plays out like an action film, well it did in my head anyway.
Heather is put in an impossible position of which I don’t think any of us know what we would do if we were to be in the same situation. Due to her actions, Special Agent Tom Lange enters her life in the hope of trying to protect her and the girls as well as getting behind who the caller is.
There is so much going on in this book. Don’t worry though as it’s easy to keep up with and with all the action as well as Tom’s background and the case, you certainly can’t complain about there not being enough within these pages to keep you hooked.
There is some great characterisation going on that has you caring about certain characters, so much so that you really get invested in their story.
Truth or Dead is an action packed read with plenty to thrill the reader. It’s a highly entertaining read that would be great as a crime series on television or even a movie. Ideal for readers who like a gripping and fast paced read.
My thanks to Jill Burkinshaw and Joffe Books for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
December 23, 2017
Interesting thriller.
It was slow at the beginning and other parts of the book. Unexplainable fights, five to one, didn't made any sense. But for me who was behind all was very obvious, because the way character was described. Many twist will keep you reading.
It was slow at the beginning and other parts of the book. Unexplainable fights, five to one, didn't made any sense. But for me who was behind all was very obvious, because the way character was described. Many twist will keep you reading.
February 2, 2018
I received a review copy of this novel directly from the author and publisher Joffe Books. I have voluntarily chosen to review the book, and the gifting in no way determines my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
This is a completely new author for me and even though this was the second book of the Tom Lange series I feel it can be read as a standalone.
An adrenaline soaked crime thriller, the author immerses us in the story with a giant bang and one of the most exciting, anxiety filled starts to a book that I have read in a long time. Tightly written and paced, the plot is action packed with bodies dropping like flies and theories abounding. Interwoven within this drug crime gang tale is the story of a mother of two small children forced to play a part in the murderous manipulations of an unknown killer. Our protagonist, Tom Lange, a state police officer, is tasked with witness protection of the mother and children and becomes involved in the twisted state of affairs when the killer engages him directly. As a subplot Tom is determined to prove the crime gang family guilty of the murders to avenge his brother's death.
With more twists and turns than you can poke a stick at and an ending that is as surprising as the reveal of the killer, the reader is guaranteed a rollercoaster ride of a read.
This is a completely new author for me and even though this was the second book of the Tom Lange series I feel it can be read as a standalone.
An adrenaline soaked crime thriller, the author immerses us in the story with a giant bang and one of the most exciting, anxiety filled starts to a book that I have read in a long time. Tightly written and paced, the plot is action packed with bodies dropping like flies and theories abounding. Interwoven within this drug crime gang tale is the story of a mother of two small children forced to play a part in the murderous manipulations of an unknown killer. Our protagonist, Tom Lange, a state police officer, is tasked with witness protection of the mother and children and becomes involved in the twisted state of affairs when the killer engages him directly. As a subplot Tom is determined to prove the crime gang family guilty of the murders to avenge his brother's death.
With more twists and turns than you can poke a stick at and an ending that is as surprising as the reveal of the killer, the reader is guaranteed a rollercoaster ride of a read.
August 10, 2019
Truth or Dead
I really enjoyed reading your book. I have read several and the characters were believable and the plot was intense. Looking forward to reading more of your books.
I really enjoyed reading your book. I have read several and the characters were believable and the plot was intense. Looking forward to reading more of your books.
December 31, 2017
The synopsis caught my attention real quick so I was bound to give this a chance. Plus, I love mysteries and thrillers so it was quite expected of me to pick this up. Do I regret reading this? No. Did I hope for something more? Definitely yes.
The start hooked me right away because the pace was on fire and everything was fast enough for me to get my senses on alert—something I love from my thrillers. After all, isn't thriller simply synonymous to excitement? I was by the edge of my seat and wanted to know how it would all connect to the revelation, or who the 'bad guy' was. However, all those dreams of mine were shattered (excuse my dramatics) when suddenly—almost like there was hole in the road in which the car went flying down—the pacing became turtle-ish. As much as the story was focused on the mysterious suspects, connecting links and Heather or her daughters, in the start, the middle parts were completely askew with too many things going on. Amidst all this, even romance, one that didn't even feel necessary to the plot or any character, was being highlighted all of a sudden. Anyway, I still stuck around this to get to the 'bad guy' but ugh, that wasn't very impressive either. Overall, this wasn't a very enjoyable read for me though I'm wondering if the fact that it's the second installment in a series I've never read before would be a contributor to my opinions. This wasn't my cup of tea and if someone coincides with my choices, I wouldn't be recommending it to them anytime soon.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this book via Netgalley but that in no way influences my rating and/or opinions about it. Thank you Joffee Books and T.J. Brearton!
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December 17, 2017
This is book 2 in the Tom Lange series but the first I have read. It works excellently as a stand-alone. The pace is set from the very first page as the question is raised: What wouldn't you do to protect your children?
Tom is a special agent who is recovering from a traumatic case and the death of his brother. He is called back to work when an inmate dies in a suicide watch cell. From there his life becomes entangled with that of Heather Moss and her children.
Heather has had a difficult life and just as she is putting the pieces back together she receives a phone call that puts her whole world at risk. She has little choice but to follow the instructions of the caller and from that point her life will never be the same again.
This is a fast paced, adrenaline pumping read that has you turning page after page. It is full of twists and turns with a large dose of intrigue. I kept reading chapter after chapter as I tried to work out who the person was that was causing all the deaths and it isn't until the very end that it is revealed.
I have read books by TJ before and was very impressed and I was far from disappointed with this one. It has a lot going on and many aspects of human nature are discussed throughout the story. I love Tom's character he is a damaged individual with his own way of dealing with things and he has skeletons in his closet that threaten to escape during the story.
This is a stunning read that left me going WOW now THAT was one brilliant read. Definitely worth the 5 stars and I am looking forward to more from this author (in the meantime I have his backlist to read)
Tom is a special agent who is recovering from a traumatic case and the death of his brother. He is called back to work when an inmate dies in a suicide watch cell. From there his life becomes entangled with that of Heather Moss and her children.
Heather has had a difficult life and just as she is putting the pieces back together she receives a phone call that puts her whole world at risk. She has little choice but to follow the instructions of the caller and from that point her life will never be the same again.
This is a fast paced, adrenaline pumping read that has you turning page after page. It is full of twists and turns with a large dose of intrigue. I kept reading chapter after chapter as I tried to work out who the person was that was causing all the deaths and it isn't until the very end that it is revealed.
I have read books by TJ before and was very impressed and I was far from disappointed with this one. It has a lot going on and many aspects of human nature are discussed throughout the story. I love Tom's character he is a damaged individual with his own way of dealing with things and he has skeletons in his closet that threaten to escape during the story.
This is a stunning read that left me going WOW now THAT was one brilliant read. Definitely worth the 5 stars and I am looking forward to more from this author (in the meantime I have his backlist to read)
December 17, 2017
This thriller was quite hard work I thought. Probably due to the fact it was an unfinished draft, and the American abbreviations that were at the back of the book couldn’t be accessed readily, without losing my place on the kindle app. I hadn’t got a clue what half of them meant. Typical Americans have an abbreviation for everything!
It wasn’t a bad storyline but it was a bit slow, and it was fairly obvious who was behind it all. I think it could have been condensed somewhat, as everyone was running round like headless chickens and not getting anywhere. I can’t say I really gelled with any of the characters, and I think it would be beneficial to read the previous book, if there is one to fill in the gaps.
If I’m honest, I don’t think I’d read any more in this series from this author as it just didn’t hold my attention, it was something and nothing.
It wasn’t a bad storyline but it was a bit slow, and it was fairly obvious who was behind it all. I think it could have been condensed somewhat, as everyone was running round like headless chickens and not getting anywhere. I can’t say I really gelled with any of the characters, and I think it would be beneficial to read the previous book, if there is one to fill in the gaps.
If I’m honest, I don’t think I’d read any more in this series from this author as it just didn’t hold my attention, it was something and nothing.
December 12, 2017
Heather Moss is a widowed mother of two young girls and a mental health professional. How did she end up being involved in the murder of a man in jail? That’s what FDLE Agent Tom Lange has to find out. Just recalled back to work after a period protecting the Governor and going through therapy following the culmination of his last case. This book gripped me from the beginning . Loved the story and the characters. Not having read the first from the series didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this one.
Thanks to Joffe Books and T J Brearton for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review
Thanks to Joffe Books and T J Brearton for the ARC of this book in return for an honest review
April 24, 2022
As with the first book, this one is an equally intelligent thriller. The basic plot is simple enough but there's a lot going on behind the scenes. Some of these background themes make it useful, if not essential, that you've read book #1 first. Either way, these side-bars, much of which is political manoeuvring between various law enforcement agencies, can be a little overwhelming, especially as there are numerous characters. Stay on top of it, this entanglement becomes highly charged and interesting. The quality of the story comes from the sense of realism in the investigatory work.
December 17, 2017
After a rather slow beginning I really enjoyed the rest of the book. Fast paced and cunningly written it keeps the reader guessing until the very end. I look forward to the next in the series.
December 26, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Joffe Books for a review copy of Truth or Dead the second novel to feature FDLE (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) agent Tom Lange.
Single mother and widow Heather Moss is rushing to work after a fraught start to the day with her daughter's when she takes a call which will change her life. A robotic voice threatens her children if she doesn't deliver an envelope to an inmate at the prison where she works as a therapist. She complies and the inmate dies. Tom Lange and his boss Lauren Blythe are assigned the investigation which turns out to be much more complicated than it first seems.
I enjoyed Truth or Dead which is a complicated thriller with plenty of twists and turns. It is probably not the best novel I have read by Mr Brearton as it lacks the edginess of his best work but the convoluted plot partly mitigates this. I'm unsure if this reaction is down to me guessing the perpetrator early on or if it's just the way the novel is written. As I said the plot is convoluted and I felt sometimes that I was getting lost in some of the twists and turns and where the characters slotted into the overall scheme.
I like Tom Lange. He's had his troubles in life and is still working on his anger management issues but he's kind, smart and compassionate if over involved with his witnesses. He's an interesting character whom I'd like to meet again on his journey.
Truth or Dead is a difficult novel to review as it is plot driven and therefore impossible to discuss without issuing spoilers so all I can say is that it is cleverly plotted with a Machiavellian perpetrator. 3.5*
Single mother and widow Heather Moss is rushing to work after a fraught start to the day with her daughter's when she takes a call which will change her life. A robotic voice threatens her children if she doesn't deliver an envelope to an inmate at the prison where she works as a therapist. She complies and the inmate dies. Tom Lange and his boss Lauren Blythe are assigned the investigation which turns out to be much more complicated than it first seems.
I enjoyed Truth or Dead which is a complicated thriller with plenty of twists and turns. It is probably not the best novel I have read by Mr Brearton as it lacks the edginess of his best work but the convoluted plot partly mitigates this. I'm unsure if this reaction is down to me guessing the perpetrator early on or if it's just the way the novel is written. As I said the plot is convoluted and I felt sometimes that I was getting lost in some of the twists and turns and where the characters slotted into the overall scheme.
I like Tom Lange. He's had his troubles in life and is still working on his anger management issues but he's kind, smart and compassionate if over involved with his witnesses. He's an interesting character whom I'd like to meet again on his journey.
Truth or Dead is a difficult novel to review as it is plot driven and therefore impossible to discuss without issuing spoilers so all I can say is that it is cleverly plotted with a Machiavellian perpetrator. 3.5*
December 21, 2017
I haven't read any of TJ Brearton's books before so this was all new to me. I didn't know that it is the second book featuring Tom Lange but that didn't cause me any problems with being able to follow the story.
The story begins when widowed Heather Moss receives a phone call, forcing her to leave a suicide pill with a prison inmate when she visits him in her role as a social worker. She complies because the caller threatens her two daughters which throws the reader straight into the action. From there, the novel barrels along at an impressive rate, bringing in the police who have to solve the case of the dead prisoner and the possible mastermind behind it all. It is incredibly fast-paced, leaving the reader breathless and desperate to get to the end to find out who the mastermind actually is. I can't wait to read more of T.J.'s books and will be reading those novels he has published previously.
I would recommend that British readers who aren't au fait with the American Law system should read the section explaining it before they read the novel. I didn't and I struggled with the different departments.
The story begins when widowed Heather Moss receives a phone call, forcing her to leave a suicide pill with a prison inmate when she visits him in her role as a social worker. She complies because the caller threatens her two daughters which throws the reader straight into the action. From there, the novel barrels along at an impressive rate, bringing in the police who have to solve the case of the dead prisoner and the possible mastermind behind it all. It is incredibly fast-paced, leaving the reader breathless and desperate to get to the end to find out who the mastermind actually is. I can't wait to read more of T.J.'s books and will be reading those novels he has published previously.
I would recommend that British readers who aren't au fait with the American Law system should read the section explaining it before they read the novel. I didn't and I struggled with the different departments.
February 9, 2025
This is the second installment of the Tom Lange series. He’s a likable detective but can’t seem to get out of his own way. Yet, he’s very smart and not afraid to do what it takes, no matter how unpleasant. There are a lot of characters in this book. At times, it’s hard to keep up, but as I continue to read, everything becomes clear. This is a well-written book with complex characters and plots. As such, I will continue to read this series!
July 13, 2019
Engaging
Tight logical story with good depth to characters. All too realistic scenario of the conflict between law enforcement and big time criminals in this high tech world. Recommended.
Tight logical story with good depth to characters. All too realistic scenario of the conflict between law enforcement and big time criminals in this high tech world. Recommended.
December 21, 2017
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This book was so intense, I loved the plot and the storyline was brilliant - really well thought through and planned out to make sure it really packed a punch!
The characters are great and whilst this is the second book in the series, you are fine to read it as a stand alone. I loved the fast pace for the book and it had me turning page after page, I didn't want to put to down and flew through the book. Plenty of twists and turns and I loved the writing style - spot on for the story!
This has to be the best book that I have read so far by this author - five stars from me - I thought that it was an excellent crime thriller!!
This book was so intense, I loved the plot and the storyline was brilliant - really well thought through and planned out to make sure it really packed a punch!
The characters are great and whilst this is the second book in the series, you are fine to read it as a stand alone. I loved the fast pace for the book and it had me turning page after page, I didn't want to put to down and flew through the book. Plenty of twists and turns and I loved the writing style - spot on for the story!
This has to be the best book that I have read so far by this author - five stars from me - I thought that it was an excellent crime thriller!!
December 17, 2017
This is the second in the Tom Lange series and from the first page the suspence starts to build.
Heather Moss is due to assess an inmate at the county Jail and on her way to work she receives a phone call telling her if she doesn`t do what she is told her two daughters will be killed.
The caller knows everything about her children even down to the clothing they are wearing that day.
Terrified Heather does as shes asked, unaware of what shes actually done she rushes to collect her girls and sets out to hand herself into the police.
The man she visited dies and as the cctv in the jail shows Heather handing over an envelope Special Agent Lange is on her tail. He intercepts her and so the investigation gets underway.
Tom believes the killing is linked to a notorious criminal Mario Palumbo, the man who killed his brother, a man they have been trying to apprehend unsuccessfully for years.
However something doesn`t ring true, is Palumbo involved or is someone trying to frame him. Will Tom manage to solve this complex case and possibly finally take Palumbo down?
This is a first rate crime thriller, with plenty twists to keep you guessing at the reasons behind them.
The continuing back story of Tom is there and we learn more about his brothers death and the secret that Tom thought only he knew about.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I enjoyed the book very much and will be waiting for the next instalment in the Tom Lange series.
Heather Moss is due to assess an inmate at the county Jail and on her way to work she receives a phone call telling her if she doesn`t do what she is told her two daughters will be killed.
The caller knows everything about her children even down to the clothing they are wearing that day.
Terrified Heather does as shes asked, unaware of what shes actually done she rushes to collect her girls and sets out to hand herself into the police.
The man she visited dies and as the cctv in the jail shows Heather handing over an envelope Special Agent Lange is on her tail. He intercepts her and so the investigation gets underway.
Tom believes the killing is linked to a notorious criminal Mario Palumbo, the man who killed his brother, a man they have been trying to apprehend unsuccessfully for years.
However something doesn`t ring true, is Palumbo involved or is someone trying to frame him. Will Tom manage to solve this complex case and possibly finally take Palumbo down?
This is a first rate crime thriller, with plenty twists to keep you guessing at the reasons behind them.
The continuing back story of Tom is there and we learn more about his brothers death and the secret that Tom thought only he knew about.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an ARC. I enjoyed the book very much and will be waiting for the next instalment in the Tom Lange series.
December 17, 2017
3 stars
Heather Moss is on her way to work as a clinical therapist when she receives a phone call. The person on the phone tells her that she must do his bidding or he will kill her two daughters. He wants her to go to the jail and commit a crime.
As a result, an inmate dies. Did she know that he was to testify against a well-known crime boss?
Special Agent Tom Lange is convinced that the man behind the murder is Mario Palumbo – the crime boss. Tom believes that Palumbo had his brother killed. He wants to arrest him very badly. He interviews Heather Moss and investigates the case. He begins to think that perhaps Palumbo didn’t do it. Palumbo might be being framed.
This book wanders a little. It is fairly well written, but meanders a little too much for me. I did like the way that the author interjected a little humor in places in the story. The action wasn’t too bad, but the story lost its way a few times. There was sufficient information given about the main characters – especially Tom – but not so much that it intruded in the story, I liked the book, I just didn’t love it.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
Heather Moss is on her way to work as a clinical therapist when she receives a phone call. The person on the phone tells her that she must do his bidding or he will kill her two daughters. He wants her to go to the jail and commit a crime.
As a result, an inmate dies. Did she know that he was to testify against a well-known crime boss?
Special Agent Tom Lange is convinced that the man behind the murder is Mario Palumbo – the crime boss. Tom believes that Palumbo had his brother killed. He wants to arrest him very badly. He interviews Heather Moss and investigates the case. He begins to think that perhaps Palumbo didn’t do it. Palumbo might be being framed.
This book wanders a little. It is fairly well written, but meanders a little too much for me. I did like the way that the author interjected a little humor in places in the story. The action wasn’t too bad, but the story lost its way a few times. There was sufficient information given about the main characters – especially Tom – but not so much that it intruded in the story, I liked the book, I just didn’t love it.
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
December 13, 2017
Slow start, explosive finish
When I received this advance review copy from Joffe Books I was not sure whether I would enjoy reading it. I have never read any of T.J. Brearton’s novels before and after reading the first few pages I was concerned that it was going to be slow going and hard to read. However, I stuck with it and am very pleased I did as it started to pick up pace and within three chapters I was hooked. Indeed, once we got going the action speeded up and at the end of each chapter you were driven to read on making it hard to put the book down.
The story was exciting with lots of twists and turns and at times it seemed that even the author wasn’t sure which way he was going with the plot, but this didn’t diminish the intrigue, if anything it made it better. The ending was certainly explosive in more ways than one with almost all the loose ends tied up neatly resulting in a satisfactory result.
The characters were easy to like, and despite the fact that I hadn’t read the first Tom Lange novel most of his back story was explained and proved that this book could be read as a stand-alone. Although I have to say that by the end of this I am keen to read the next one as, with all good books, I was left wanting more.
When I received this advance review copy from Joffe Books I was not sure whether I would enjoy reading it. I have never read any of T.J. Brearton’s novels before and after reading the first few pages I was concerned that it was going to be slow going and hard to read. However, I stuck with it and am very pleased I did as it started to pick up pace and within three chapters I was hooked. Indeed, once we got going the action speeded up and at the end of each chapter you were driven to read on making it hard to put the book down.
The story was exciting with lots of twists and turns and at times it seemed that even the author wasn’t sure which way he was going with the plot, but this didn’t diminish the intrigue, if anything it made it better. The ending was certainly explosive in more ways than one with almost all the loose ends tied up neatly resulting in a satisfactory result.
The characters were easy to like, and despite the fact that I hadn’t read the first Tom Lange novel most of his back story was explained and proved that this book could be read as a stand-alone. Although I have to say that by the end of this I am keen to read the next one as, with all good books, I was left wanting more.
December 11, 2017
Thanks to Netgalley and Joffe books for the opportunity to preview this book in return for my honest opinion.
This book has one of the best openers I’ve read in a thriller, I was gripped from the off. However, I would highly recommend reading the previous book. I hadn’t and there were references that were frustrating as they didn’t make immediate sense. It also appeared to meander at times, although, that could be due to references that didn’t mean anything to me as I’d not read the previous book. Characters and situations were dropped in that meant little or nothing to a first time reader, which was a shame.
Despite that, I really enjoyed it. It’s got a great plot that kept my interest and I loved the build of suspense, not knowing whom to trust. Could not guess outcome at all.
In summary, despite my frustrations detailed, I’d recommend.
This book has one of the best openers I’ve read in a thriller, I was gripped from the off. However, I would highly recommend reading the previous book. I hadn’t and there were references that were frustrating as they didn’t make immediate sense. It also appeared to meander at times, although, that could be due to references that didn’t mean anything to me as I’d not read the previous book. Characters and situations were dropped in that meant little or nothing to a first time reader, which was a shame.
Despite that, I really enjoyed it. It’s got a great plot that kept my interest and I loved the build of suspense, not knowing whom to trust. Could not guess outcome at all.
In summary, despite my frustrations detailed, I’d recommend.
December 17, 2017
I received an e-ARC of Truth or Dead from Netgalley and the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars.
The Plot of the story is what I loved! There were plenty of twist and turns and I wanted to know how the story would end. As always with book with a "need-to-know" story-line, I ended up reading through it in under a day. The story felt like it had been written by an actual member of law enforcement because it felt very realistic. Although I haven't read the first book, I was able to follow this one.
I think the only short-coming of the book was the characters. While they weren't unlikeable as such, it was just that they were unremarkable. I didn't really care what happened to them either way; just about where the story would lead.
3.5 stars.
The Plot of the story is what I loved! There were plenty of twist and turns and I wanted to know how the story would end. As always with book with a "need-to-know" story-line, I ended up reading through it in under a day. The story felt like it had been written by an actual member of law enforcement because it felt very realistic. Although I haven't read the first book, I was able to follow this one.
I think the only short-coming of the book was the characters. While they weren't unlikeable as such, it was just that they were unremarkable. I didn't really care what happened to them either way; just about where the story would lead.
April 11, 2018
Driving to work, Heather receives a phone call from a stranger who knows where her kids are, what they are wearing, and what Heather is currently doing. The caller threatens that her children will die if Heather doesn't do what he wants.
The book is full of twists and turns and is very suspenseful. It was one of those books I didn't want to put down. It is fast -paced and has an unexpected surprise ending. I previously read Buried Secrets by this author, and I enjoyed both books. I recommend this book as well as other books by T. J. Brearton.
The book is full of twists and turns and is very suspenseful. It was one of those books I didn't want to put down. It is fast -paced and has an unexpected surprise ending. I previously read Buried Secrets by this author, and I enjoyed both books. I recommend this book as well as other books by T. J. Brearton.
December 24, 2017
I was intrigued by the plot of this book, but it fell a bit short for me.
The middle part of the book was very slow going and it felt much longer than 300 pages. My main issue was that I did not care for any of the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The middle part of the book was very slow going and it felt much longer than 300 pages. My main issue was that I did not care for any of the characters.
Thanks to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2018
Hooked!
Brearton certainly delivers! Very happy camper here! Action galore, fast paced, no wasted words used as filler! Looking to a long adventure with this author!
Brearton certainly delivers! Very happy camper here! Action galore, fast paced, no wasted words used as filler! Looking to a long adventure with this author!
November 6, 2022
Better Than the First
After I finished the first Tom Lange book, I wasn't at all sure I liked his character. He was very reactive and prone to impulsive decisions with negative effects. I'm not talking about the standard anti-hero "I'll do it my way" kind of stuff. This guy was just so green and so emotionally driven he didn't seem like a good LEO.
But he's growing as a character, and it shows well in this novel. He still tends to screw things up by reacting without considering consequences, but he's getting better at tempering that. For me, he was much more enjoyable in this story, even if he still can't follow directions.
This story finds a young, widowed mother, Heather, in an untenable position. Having to make decisions no one should ever have to make. It seems like one of those old psychological exercises that were ridiculously impossible: your boat just sank, and you've only got one extra life jacket- do you give it to the pretty young woman or the nice old lady who may be able to cure cancer?
Seriously. Heather's got problems she simply can't squirm out of, and it seems like no one is on her side. Except for Tom Lange. He has no problem butting heads with everyone in authority. The convoluted plot is unwoven with precision and a series of switchbacks no one can see coming. This read convinced me that I want to read more about this character and his shadowy, enigmatic former neighbor who turns up at the most opportune times.
After I finished the first Tom Lange book, I wasn't at all sure I liked his character. He was very reactive and prone to impulsive decisions with negative effects. I'm not talking about the standard anti-hero "I'll do it my way" kind of stuff. This guy was just so green and so emotionally driven he didn't seem like a good LEO.
But he's growing as a character, and it shows well in this novel. He still tends to screw things up by reacting without considering consequences, but he's getting better at tempering that. For me, he was much more enjoyable in this story, even if he still can't follow directions.
This story finds a young, widowed mother, Heather, in an untenable position. Having to make decisions no one should ever have to make. It seems like one of those old psychological exercises that were ridiculously impossible: your boat just sank, and you've only got one extra life jacket- do you give it to the pretty young woman or the nice old lady who may be able to cure cancer?
Seriously. Heather's got problems she simply can't squirm out of, and it seems like no one is on her side. Except for Tom Lange. He has no problem butting heads with everyone in authority. The convoluted plot is unwoven with precision and a series of switchbacks no one can see coming. This read convinced me that I want to read more about this character and his shadowy, enigmatic former neighbor who turns up at the most opportune times.
January 1, 2018
Rating: 6/10
Pages: 361
This is the second book with the series, but I was able to get the gist of the main plot lines. While the story does create good build up, extra shoot outs and mob intrigue. The plot being tied into the mob just didn't work for me. It kept pushing for something that felt forced. I think most cops wouldn't be left on so long a line. Overall, it was a good, short thriller that was an easy read. But I think the series maybe is not for me as a whole.
Location: Kindle
Pages: 361
This is the second book with the series, but I was able to get the gist of the main plot lines. While the story does create good build up, extra shoot outs and mob intrigue. The plot being tied into the mob just didn't work for me. It kept pushing for something that felt forced. I think most cops wouldn't be left on so long a line. Overall, it was a good, short thriller that was an easy read. But I think the series maybe is not for me as a whole.
Location: Kindle
January 22, 2018
Just ok, in my opinion.
The novel did not lived up to its billing of “gripping” or “full of twists”. A whole paragraph wasted with the main character asking where the bathroom is and explaining his need to “void his bladder”. It could have all been summed up in a sentence: “After a quick trip to the restroom, Tom noticed...” The police station was described in detail for no particular reason. Then he’s talking on his cell phone while getting gas, which is a no-no. The ending was anti climactic. Some closure, but not fully.
The novel did not lived up to its billing of “gripping” or “full of twists”. A whole paragraph wasted with the main character asking where the bathroom is and explaining his need to “void his bladder”. It could have all been summed up in a sentence: “After a quick trip to the restroom, Tom noticed...” The police station was described in detail for no particular reason. Then he’s talking on his cell phone while getting gas, which is a no-no. The ending was anti climactic. Some closure, but not fully.
January 7, 2018
this story starts with heather moss after receiving phone calls about her everyday life and her kids and threats to her kids freaks her out. tom lange special agent goes all out to protect heather. it will keep you gripped from start to finish. i enjoyed reading as you kept wondering what the next page is going to tell you. something is happening all the way through that you dont want to get to the end but its was a cracking ending
December 11, 2019
Past, present, future?
Tom the hero, is consistent, capable, a loner, unorthodox and a brilliant cop. He has faults and a past. He relates poorly to those who care. The characters are well defined and intricate to the story. Not all are there at the end. The underworld and all its sins are well written into a web of murder and corruption. An exciting read with many facets to characterization.
Tom the hero, is consistent, capable, a loner, unorthodox and a brilliant cop. He has faults and a past. He relates poorly to those who care. The characters are well defined and intricate to the story. Not all are there at the end. The underworld and all its sins are well written into a web of murder and corruption. An exciting read with many facets to characterization.
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