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Clint Wolf #5

But Not For Naught

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The only thing worse than being stabbed in the back is being shot in the back; and that’s exactly what happens to local bar owner Mitch Taylor. As Clint Wolf and Susan Wilson investigate, the list of suspects begins to grow and it includes the victim’s estranged wife. Just when it appears Clint is closing in on the killer, things takes a surprising turn and the entire complexion of the case is changed.

As though the twist in the case weren’t enough, Clint finds an old photograph that turns his personal life on its head and sets him on a dual quest for answers. Not only is he interrogating suspects, but he also interrogates his mother, and he begins to wonder what will be more difficult—discovering the secret to his past or solving Mitch Taylor’s murder. One thing is certain…no one will be the same after this is over.

231 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 23, 2018

1211 people are currently reading
141 people want to read

About the author

B.J. Bourg

59 books230 followers
BJ Bourg is a twenty-seven-year veteran of law enforcement and has worked as a patrol cop, detective, police academy instructor, SWAT officer, sniper leader, and chief investigator for a district attorney's office. He is a former professional boxer and a lifelong martial artist.

He is the author of the London Carter Mystery Series, the Clint Wolf Mystery Series, two books featuring Detective Brandon Berger, and a stand-alone mountain mystery. Additionally, over 185 of his short stories and articles have appeared in magazines such as Woman's World, Boys' Life, Tactical Response, and LAW and ORDER.

He loves vacationing in the mountains and is especially drawn to hiking, climbing, photographing wild animals, and traversing wild rivers in anything that will float. Above all else, he is a father and husband, and the highlight of his life is spending time with his beautiful wife and wonderful kids. For more information, including a list of BJ's published works and info about new releases and upcoming events, visit his website (http://bjbourg.com/).

https://www.facebook.com/BJBourg
https://twitter.com/BJBourg

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5 stars
1,619 (57%)
4 stars
895 (31%)
3 stars
270 (9%)
2 stars
41 (1%)
1 star
10 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Rich.
297 reviews28 followers
December 22, 2020
I just finished another good book in this series. It was one of the shorter books but that was ok. I thought he did a good job with growing the main and secondary characters. I think tis book was more about growing the main characters character than the actual murder case. I think he did a good job with the location again I thought the story maybe bogged down a little bit more than in the the other books. I thought the ending was a little bit over the top, I think sometimes he tries so hard to have a twist in who the bad guy is that in fact it might hurt the story. The one thing about this series is that it has to be read in order or you will be lost. I think that goes for any series they should always be read in order. This was not the strongest book in the series but I do say try and give the series a spin.
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,704 reviews113 followers
April 29, 2021
Clint Wolf is the Chief Investigator for the Mechant Loup Police Department in southeast Louisiana. He and Police Chief Susan Wilson are puzzled by the shooting death of a popular Bar owner. What was the motive? Who owns the 9mm handgun that was used in the murder? There are multiple suspects. The common Louisiana question asked of most everyone may be key; “Who are your people?”. Enjoy.
Profile Image for Patrizia.
1,914 reviews41 followers
November 30, 2024
4 stelle e mezza
Storia molto interessante, sia per quanto riguarda l'omicidio da risolvere sia per uno sviluppo nella vita privata del protagonista. Devo dire che non avevo proprio azzeccato il colpevole (o forse dovrei usare il plurale?), ma sinceramente penso che .
Profile Image for Dick Aichinger.
522 reviews8 followers
January 14, 2024
3.5+ stars

This was another in the Clint Wolf series by B.J. Bourg. Bourg spins a good investigation by the Chief Detective of Merchent Loup, Louisiana. There were times in this book that I thought the author might have forgotten what he had just presented in evidence as the character's mind raced to settle on a suspect. It was still a good read.

As Clint Wolf and Susan Wilson investigate the murder of a local bar owner, the list of suspects begins to grow and it includes the victim's estranged wife. Just when it appears Clint is closing in on the killer, things take a surprising turn and the entire complexion of the case is changed. As though the twist in the case weren't enough, Clint finds an old photograph that turns his personal life on its head and sets him on a dual quest for answers. Not only is he interrogating suspects, but he also finds himself interrogating his mother, and he begins to wonder what will be more difficult--discovering the secret to his past or solving Mitch Taylor's murder. One thing is certain...no one will be the same after this is over.
170 reviews
July 16, 2025
Enjoyed this book, probably my favorite one so far (I did skip books 2 and 3) see review of 4 and you’ll know why… this one was really interesting and I was wrong about the killer and didn’t see that coming! The only reason I didn’t give this a 4 star was because there were several subplots that went on and it was hard keeping track. Also, one subplot just vanished so hopefully that will get resolved in the next book.

I like this series but the one thing I would change is I’m not a fan of Susan’s fighter career. I don’t like girl fighter, no hate I am female, but I love a protective man and Clint seems like he wants to be that but can’t because she can hold her own. It felt like with his first wife and Chloe that he loved taking care of his woman and I loved that part of his personality. I do love she is Chief and is a strong woman character even if she wasn’t a fighter. I will continue these books because the mysteries have been so good!!
7,741 reviews49 followers
November 4, 2018
Trying to make his Stepdad proud, the boy takes to painting his Stepdad truck, while his dad was busy painting the house. Sissy notices and wants to get it washed off, before Stepdad see’s it. With heavy hands he slaps the boy to the ground, Sissy interferes and her body is now lifeless. A boy that can’t ask questions and when he does his Mom and him get punish, saying he will train and come back and kill him. Bartender Mitch was murdered
from the back, was killer already in bar, or a person he knew. Clint finds and old photo and brings the pass and his life of what he had known upside down, Interrogating one’s mother wasn’t easy, Many plots, that weave with twists and turns, that hold you once again to the end.
258 reviews1 follower
April 7, 2024
Week before Thanksgiving:
Clint back as an investigator. Melvin, Takecia, Amy;
Determined Mitch was killed by mistake (Connie). Was supposed to be Foster Blake - married to Pearly Blake; Jack Billiot - town drunk;
Mitch testified against Chris Jenkins;
Everyone having affairs with one another; Joyce with Foster;
Foster abused his step-kids, Kimberly-pushed her down, serious head injury, went to live with grandfather, Desmond Lemon and Matthew and Jill Bernard -
Kimberly killed Mitch, Desmond shot at Foster twice but hit his grandson, Matthew. Desmond dies in the operating room.
----
Wedding planning: Clint's mom - Nancy; Susan's mom - Lisa;
Clint's biological dad -Gavin Montana and Sister Crystal (Mom Nancy was abusive)





This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Beth.
2,877 reviews25 followers
May 1, 2019
Another good mystery with a great ending. And once again the author makes great use of parallel themes in interesting ways.

Clint and Susan are getting closer to finalizing wedding plans when a situation comes up in Clint’s personal life that throws him for a loop. Meanwhile he’s got a murdered bar owner who appears to have no enemies. As Clint tries to narrow the suspect pool he keeps getting thwarted. There’s also a flashback story running parallel that we know somehow fits in but we quite sure how.

It’s a twisty case and while the red herrings aren’t great they may throw you off a bit. The climax is exciting (no spoilers!)
2,982 reviews13 followers
September 12, 2023
"But Not for Naught", fifth in the 'Clint Wolf' series is a slow-burn procedural on several fronts.
A local bar owner, Mitch, has been murdered. Clint leads the investigation but the list of suspects just keeps growing.
A chance discovery in his mother's family photo album turns Clint's life upside.
And he and Susan begin to plan their wedding (well Susan does!)
The book deftly covers past and present events to weave complex tales of brutality and cover-ups.
Even though it is constantly moving I thought the pacing was languid, but I was in a languid mood while reading it.
3.5 Stars, raised to 4 Stars.
Profile Image for Scott Kalas.
536 reviews10 followers
June 27, 2020
Another mystery to the end

Well almost the end. Some might figure it out earlier but I liked it throughout. A good side plot too. Again some references to stories from earlier books can leave some wondering what happen in the previous books. Especially if your memory is not the best. It might be helpful if the author would expand a little more when referencing stories from the past.

Bottom line I’m still enjoying the series.
119 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2019
Great series.

This story was awesome from start to finish. A great mystery drama, full of suspense. The characters and the story is compelling. You will be anxious to read, trying to figure out who the "bad" guy or girl is ? The end comes together nicely and you will be surprised. Another great book in this awesome series. By a Great Author. 👍
Profile Image for Susan.
7,162 reviews69 followers
September 10, 2019
One night after closing time bar owner Mitch Taylor is shot in the back. Clint Wolf and Susan Wilson investigate the crime as the list of suspects grow but what was the motive. Wolf meanwhile has to cope with revelations about his early life, while also 'helping' with the planning of his wedding (the wedding story I found to be somewhat boring).
So overall an enjoyable crime story
163 reviews
October 10, 2019
Yet another page turner!

Clint and staff have their hands full with this one. The local bar owner has been murdered, but there's more than one suspect. Then Clint discovers some hidden history of his own. More and more strange things happen in this town. Just wait till you see how it all works out.
232 reviews
April 24, 2022
Who did It

Did not see that coming. As each character becomes a suspect, I bought into the deductions. Each time hoping that the author would save that character and find a different killer. Very well played and keeps you running in circles. Love the fact that they always call for backup and the other cops always assist. Like for real.
2 reviews
December 13, 2024
Good read

I really enjoy reading B J Bourg books. He gives some good information about the law and police work.
The books keep me interested in continuing reading to see what is happening or what will happen. Have not lost interest after reading 1st, 5 books. Need to move on and download #6.
1,507 reviews7 followers
March 13, 2018
But Not For Naught

This is the latest book in this series. It is a very good series. It is a must read series . I highly recommend this series. I did see there will be a new book in the series coming soon. Can't wait.
Profile Image for Kirk.
601 reviews9 followers
March 31, 2018
Awesome books!

These are riveting books. I love the characters, the setting, and the excellent writing! If your looking for a great mystery series to follow, I highly recommend BJ Bourgeois.
101 reviews
July 1, 2018
A Great Series!

I have just finished book 5 and plan on reading the rest of the series. I like series with strong characters and some romance involved and a good story. Mr Bourg has all the above in this series.
Profile Image for Denise.
1,771 reviews24 followers
February 25, 2020
'But Not For Naught' took me on such a great ride. Well written and well played out. Clint and Susan make the best team. Full of mystery, great characters, action and a splash of suspense. The story line pulled me in from the start and didn't let go. Definitely a must read. Recommended.
Profile Image for Cherylbestlife.
452 reviews8 followers
November 10, 2020
Good mystery

I enjoyed the mystery in this book. The twist involving Clint’s past was good too. I love the dynamics between Clint, Susan and Melvin. I still adore Achilles! I look forward to the next book.
26 reviews
December 13, 2021
B.J. Bourg is 5 for 5 with this series. Once again I was blown away with the ending. I thought I knew who the bad guy was but when all was said and done, I wasn't even in the same zip code. I highly recommend this series. Now then, on to #6!!
Profile Image for Joni.
656 reviews
March 15, 2024
good book

These books get better and better. The writing is so vivid that I feel like I’m right there in the swamp with them. I’m glad there are 30 of these books. I finish one and start the next one.
Profile Image for Richard Cowart.
590 reviews
June 20, 2024
Continued excellence

Clint and Susan have family over the Thanksgiving holiday week when there is a murder in town. While talking to his mom, he learns he has a sister, and Susan helps track them down. Many changes in suspect line and family history Great reading
5 reviews
April 17, 2025
Action packed

I've only read 5 books so far of the Clint Wolfe series but I am in love with the characters. So much excitement, mystery, and action. Love everything about the series.
6 reviews
February 25, 2018
Great writer

I have read all five books in six days. The way BJ writes kept me engrossed. Can't wait for the next book.
1,767 reviews6 followers
April 3, 2018
A good book as the series has been. Recommend consideration.
283 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2018
But Not For Naught

This is like books 2and 3, too much time spent on personal and love life and not enough on detective story.
920 reviews
June 18, 2018
Another great book in the series can't stop reading even the main characters don't escape mishaps a must read series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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