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Detective Buddy Lock Mysteries #2
The Holdouts
Power, corruption, and murder are coming for Buddy Lock and his family in a breathtaking thriller from author James Tucker.
A Long Island fishing crew makes a horrific catch: the bodies of an Asian couple dragged up with the trawl from the Atlantic. Homicide cop Buddy Lock knows there isn’t a chance in hell that this is some tragic accident. But as soon as his investigation begins, so do the warnings to back off. They’re not only coming from within the NYPD; they’re hitting close to Buddy’s heart: his new family has become the killer’s target.
When people start disappearing from Chinatown, Buddy finds himself on the trail of a killer whose motives are more twisting and far-reaching than the detective imagined. A killer who knows just how to get to him—by pursuing everyone he loves. Now Buddy can trust only himself—even as his relentless pursuit of justice plunges him into the most brutal waters of his career.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 16, 2018
276 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
James Tucker
4 books91 followersJames Tucker is the author of THE PARIS ESCAPE, as well as two acclaimed mysteries: THE HOLDOUTS and NEXT OF KIN, an Amazon Crime Fiction Bestseller and recipient of a Publishers Weekly Starred Review.
In 1944, a fighter plane flown by James’s grandfather was shot down over France, landing in a farmer’s field near Châteaudun. In 2002, the author visited that field, along with the man and woman who saw the crash. On that warm afternoon nearly sixty years after his grandfather’s death, James found pieces of the plane still in the field. For him, France, sacrifice, and freedom have always rhymed.
James grew up near Minneapolis, attending Carleton College and the University of Minnesota Law School. Formerly a lawyer, he’s an executive at a Fortune 40 company. In his free time, James enjoys skiing, tennis, and travel. He and his wife, painter Megan Rye, live with their family near Minneapolis.
More information at jamestuckeronline.com.
Follow James Tucker on Twitter @JamesTuckerRTR
In 1944, a fighter plane flown by James’s grandfather was shot down over France, landing in a farmer’s field near Châteaudun. In 2002, the author visited that field, along with the man and woman who saw the crash. On that warm afternoon nearly sixty years after his grandfather’s death, James found pieces of the plane still in the field. For him, France, sacrifice, and freedom have always rhymed.
James grew up near Minneapolis, attending Carleton College and the University of Minnesota Law School. Formerly a lawyer, he’s an executive at a Fortune 40 company. In his free time, James enjoys skiing, tennis, and travel. He and his wife, painter Megan Rye, live with their family near Minneapolis.
More information at jamestuckeronline.com.
Follow James Tucker on Twitter @JamesTuckerRTR
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 18, 2018
GNab This police procedural which takes place in Manhattan was intriguing. The villains are many, and the mastermind hidden until well into the last quarter of the novel. Detective Buddy Lock is an excellent and unique character with a warm humanity that colors his actions and responses. I found him quite admirable as are his fiancee Mei and young Ben. James Tucker is an author to watch for.
I received a free electronic copy of this modern novel from Netgalley, James Tucker, and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Oct 16, 2018
Thomas & Mercer
I received a free electronic copy of this modern novel from Netgalley, James Tucker, and Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me.
pub date Oct 16, 2018
Thomas & Mercer
January 19, 2019
Overall a good story, but a few scenes were a little too "Hollywood" for me.
September 22, 2018
I would like to thank Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of The Holdouts, the second novel to feature NYPD detective Buddy Lock.
Buddy is on a mandatory suspension following an officer related shooting (see Next of Kin) when he is asked to investigate the deaths of an elderly Asian couple found 32 miles out at sea by a fishing crew. As he investigates Buddy is hampered at every turn by his department and men with guns.
I was really looking forward to The Holdouts after ready Next of Kin but it failed to ignite my enthusiasm until the final chapters. Don't get me wrong, it is action packed with both Buddy and his fiancée Mei barely escaping death several times but somehow it becomes routine rather than exciting. I think that the root problem is the credibility of the plot which pushes corruption and some old fashioned practices too far for me to believe it. In fact the plot seems to come second to the action scenes. I did, however, enjoy the ending which produces a major twist.
Buddy Lock is a man on a mission to solve his case regardless of the cost. In this novel he is frozen out by his department and works with his half brother, Ward. They are both resourceful and determined but the cost is high so we may see a re-invented Buddy in the next novel.
The Holdouts is a fast paced, solid read.
Buddy is on a mandatory suspension following an officer related shooting (see Next of Kin) when he is asked to investigate the deaths of an elderly Asian couple found 32 miles out at sea by a fishing crew. As he investigates Buddy is hampered at every turn by his department and men with guns.
I was really looking forward to The Holdouts after ready Next of Kin but it failed to ignite my enthusiasm until the final chapters. Don't get me wrong, it is action packed with both Buddy and his fiancée Mei barely escaping death several times but somehow it becomes routine rather than exciting. I think that the root problem is the credibility of the plot which pushes corruption and some old fashioned practices too far for me to believe it. In fact the plot seems to come second to the action scenes. I did, however, enjoy the ending which produces a major twist.
Buddy Lock is a man on a mission to solve his case regardless of the cost. In this novel he is frozen out by his department and works with his half brother, Ward. They are both resourceful and determined but the cost is high so we may see a re-invented Buddy in the next novel.
The Holdouts is a fast paced, solid read.
March 27, 2019
Very good
I read the first Buddy Lock detective book and it was very good now he has topped that all off with writing the second book I look forward for him to write his third, fourth or fifth book and see if he continues with the Buddy Lock Character even though he is not or supposedly not going to be a detective. Very good read
I read the first Buddy Lock detective book and it was very good now he has topped that all off with writing the second book I look forward for him to write his third, fourth or fifth book and see if he continues with the Buddy Lock Character even though he is not or supposedly not going to be a detective. Very good read
March 26, 2025
This book was also a really good book.
Unfortunately, it was more centered around the duo that is our main character Buddy and his brother Ward. While the beloved duo is a fun pair to read about, I prefer more inclusion of Mei and Ben as well.
The story was very informative and gave me quite an opportunity to use my imagination but it lacked thrill.
There were heated and intense moments throughout the book but I feel like the end was a blunt answer that took too long to figure out throughout the book.
The ending was just a typical corrupt politician getting caught for their scandals instead of an action packed ending that I had hoped for; and to end it, we don’t even get closure that the family will be together and whether or not, Ben stays in their custody.
Unfortunately, it was more centered around the duo that is our main character Buddy and his brother Ward. While the beloved duo is a fun pair to read about, I prefer more inclusion of Mei and Ben as well.
The story was very informative and gave me quite an opportunity to use my imagination but it lacked thrill.
There were heated and intense moments throughout the book but I feel like the end was a blunt answer that took too long to figure out throughout the book.
The ending was just a typical corrupt politician getting caught for their scandals instead of an action packed ending that I had hoped for; and to end it, we don’t even get closure that the family will be together and whether or not, Ben stays in their custody.
September 26, 2018
If you like a lot of action, this is a book for you. I also like short and easy to read chapters, but this author is taking it a little too far.
A thing I don't like reading about is smart characters doing stupid things to get the action going, like some instances in this book.
Otherwise, it's a well written novel with good characters (and even a very good car; the Tesla Model 3).
A thing I don't like reading about is smart characters doing stupid things to get the action going, like some instances in this book.
Otherwise, it's a well written novel with good characters (and even a very good car; the Tesla Model 3).
October 19, 2018
Goodreads Kindle Copy Win
Detective Buddy Lock finds his new life and family threatened when an Asian couple bodies are found trawled from the Atlantic. It is not just some random incident as they couple is linked with his new wife Mei. Both their lives are at stake as they mystery unfolds.
A fast paced thriller.
Detective Buddy Lock finds his new life and family threatened when an Asian couple bodies are found trawled from the Atlantic. It is not just some random incident as they couple is linked with his new wife Mei. Both their lives are at stake as they mystery unfolds.
A fast paced thriller.
January 11, 2019
The story weaves well among the different characters and moves quickly at the end. It’s set for book 3, and hopefully that comes in 2019. Enjoying Buddy Lock so far - hope that Mei and Ben become more than pawns in the story of Buddy, and Ward continues to develop as more than Buddy’s rich half-brother.
November 27, 2018
Really enjoy this series and I'm assuming since the Buddy, Mei and Ben issue hasn't been resolved, there is another book? All i ask is that you dont draw this out for 12 books. My one complaint is the falling from an airplane and Ward saving him. Little too far fetched!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2019
The Holdouts
The book was a great thriller. It started out slow but the excitement really picked up as the book progressed. I was very disappointed at the ending that's why I gave it four stars instead of five.
The book was a great thriller. It started out slow but the excitement really picked up as the book progressed. I was very disappointed at the ending that's why I gave it four stars instead of five.
February 3, 2019
I just couldn’t put this down! The suspense was tense throughout the whole book. Some questions were answered, while others remained. I hope the author quickly writes the next book. I want to know the outcome of Buddy’s family and future.
March 11, 2019
Another Hit
Book held me captive. I really like Buddy Lock. He is complex. I truly want to see more from this author. His endings always suggest there is another book...leaves me wanting more.
Book held me captive. I really like Buddy Lock. He is complex. I truly want to see more from this author. His endings always suggest there is another book...leaves me wanting more.
May 18, 2019
My rating is actually a 3.75. Had read the first book in the series and enjoyed it. This second one didn’t disappoint. Lots of action and a twisty plot line. A fast read and one which begs to be finished! I’d recommend it.
February 13, 2019
I enjoyed this one much better than the first book. A lot of detail. Looking forward to the next
March 5, 2019
Great
What a twisty turny book. Keeps you guessing as you read along. Really fast paced and just not the ending you thought.
What a twisty turny book. Keeps you guessing as you read along. Really fast paced and just not the ending you thought.
April 3, 2019
Great book and series!
I throughly enjoyed this book about the great detective Buddy Lock. I can’t wait for the next one! I love the characters and the narrator.
I throughly enjoyed this book about the great detective Buddy Lock. I can’t wait for the next one! I love the characters and the narrator.
February 10, 2019
Absolutely great read! Couldnt put it down. Definitely recommend this book as a must read
May 17, 2019
Great adventure!
I’ve gotten hooked with these first two Buddy Lock books, and hope sequels will be along soon. The mysteries are intriguing, but interpersonal interactions and the musical references and overtones are what I really appreciate.
I’ve gotten hooked with these first two Buddy Lock books, and hope sequels will be along soon. The mysteries are intriguing, but interpersonal interactions and the musical references and overtones are what I really appreciate.
January 9, 2019
The book was very good!! But it had a little to much description or to much detail!! Love the story line!! Can’t wait for the next one!!
July 20, 2019
Hope there is a #3 because the ending left you wanting more.
February 17, 2019
I read the first book in this series and I really liked it! It kept me on the edge of my seat and I was excited to read the next book to find out what happened to Buddy and the rest of the characters.
I have a few questions for the author.... Were you given a royalty for every product name you put in this book? My goodness, it was overly annoying that we had to hear the description of every high end brand you seem to know..... Look at authors like Tom Wolfe, he may slip a few brand names in to make his point, but wow, you own the market.
Also, were you given a number of pages you needed to fill by your contract? Because you went WAY out of hand in your description of your characters in this book. I don't need to know every single thing one shops for in the grocery store. Or, the color of the shirt, slacks, skirt, shoes.... etc...
I'm really disappointed as I liked your first book. You know what you are doing leaving the reader wanting more. Wanting answers...
I won't be looking into the future of Buddy unless you tighten up your writing.
I have a few questions for the author.... Were you given a royalty for every product name you put in this book? My goodness, it was overly annoying that we had to hear the description of every high end brand you seem to know..... Look at authors like Tom Wolfe, he may slip a few brand names in to make his point, but wow, you own the market.
Also, were you given a number of pages you needed to fill by your contract? Because you went WAY out of hand in your description of your characters in this book. I don't need to know every single thing one shops for in the grocery store. Or, the color of the shirt, slacks, skirt, shoes.... etc...
I'm really disappointed as I liked your first book. You know what you are doing leaving the reader wanting more. Wanting answers...
I won't be looking into the future of Buddy unless you tighten up your writing.
November 7, 2018
Let me start by saying this . I hate that kind of shit.
Anyway, this was really twisty. I had two of the bad guys pegged but never imagined the last two. This was all about Russian mob money and 3 murders and one attempted murder. About huge high-rises being built in Chinatown in New York and the people who didn’t want to sell to the crooked buyers.
I liked this as much as the first book, Next of Kin, it was just as exciting and you had to wait until the very end to find all your unanswered questions answered.
The players are great: Buddy, Mei, Ben and Ward, as well as Brick, Chief Malone and Mingo.
There was no sex and the F-bomb was used 37 times.
As to the narration: Christopher Lane was better reading with emotion but his women’s voices were still horrid. I guess he thinks he doesn’t have to practice that, huh?
Anyway, this was really twisty. I had two of the bad guys pegged but never imagined the last two. This was all about Russian mob money and 3 murders and one attempted murder. About huge high-rises being built in Chinatown in New York and the people who didn’t want to sell to the crooked buyers.
I liked this as much as the first book, Next of Kin, it was just as exciting and you had to wait until the very end to find all your unanswered questions answered.
The players are great: Buddy, Mei, Ben and Ward, as well as Brick, Chief Malone and Mingo.
There was no sex and the F-bomb was used 37 times.
As to the narration: Christopher Lane was better reading with emotion but his women’s voices were still horrid. I guess he thinks he doesn’t have to practice that, huh?
November 14, 2018
I am unsure why I am only giving this a 3 star rating as this book featured many things I enjoy. There was a lot of action. LOTS. OF. ACTION. And the book was well written (as in, no cringe-worthy dialogue). And the characters were likable enough that I would love to know what happens to them in future books. And yet, it felt a bit of a slog to get through ... I don't know why. I would recommend this series to others though ... I may have just been having an off couple of days. I read this book #2 as a stand-alone, and it worked fine that way, but as the book really delves into its characters lives, I would recommend beginning with the first one. It sounds as if there were some significant events that occurred prior to this one.
November 20, 2022
Det Buddy Lock, is happy with Mei and now hopefully adoptive foster Ben. However, Buddy again gets involved in a double murder when a fisherman from Long Island calls him for help (he caught two bodies in the deep and doesn't trust the local police).
Buddy can't seem to help himself, ends up only having his brother Ward to trust as something is fishy at the NYPD. All of a sudden, Buddy and his family are targets again as they were in the last book.
Is this a recurring theme in the Buddy Lock series? If so, seems as though Mei has had enough.
One of the attempts on Buddy's life is so out there it's just beyond ridiculous that he survives.
The mystery of the book is a good one but the attempts on his and his family is far fetched.
Buddy can't seem to help himself, ends up only having his brother Ward to trust as something is fishy at the NYPD. All of a sudden, Buddy and his family are targets again as they were in the last book.
Is this a recurring theme in the Buddy Lock series? If so, seems as though Mei has had enough.
One of the attempts on Buddy's life is so out there it's just beyond ridiculous that he survives.
The mystery of the book is a good one but the attempts on his and his family is far fetched.
February 13, 2020
A pretty good thriller.
First I want to thank the author & publisher for this ebook! This is my first Buddy Lock thriller. I liked the way he solves his cases but it has a few fillers like the was his heart is pounding in his chest. I would definitely read another book by James Tucker....
First I want to thank the author & publisher for this ebook! This is my first Buddy Lock thriller. I liked the way he solves his cases but it has a few fillers like the was his heart is pounding in his chest. I would definitely read another book by James Tucker....
June 16, 2022
I had not read the 1st book, but was able to get an idea of what was going on. I considered going back to read the first, but then discovered there was no 3rd. Since the ending of the 2nd didn't really bring an end to things, I decided that it was a bust. I actually liked the book, the relationships, characters, etc - but not if I can't get an ending
August 31, 2020
A nice little mystery in New York featuring detective Buddy Lock and his brother and right hand man Ward as they take on a powerful crime Lord that’s killing people for not moving out of their homes to make way for new high dollar housing for the rich.
September 19, 2022
Captivating
There were so many twist and turns throughout the whole book. The author gave vivid descriptions of what was going on.
I love that the enemy was revealed, but sad that Buddy’s personal life wasn’t expanded more in the end.
There were so many twist and turns throughout the whole book. The author gave vivid descriptions of what was going on.
I love that the enemy was revealed, but sad that Buddy’s personal life wasn’t expanded more in the end.
December 9, 2018
For the first 3/4 of the book, it is very fast paced and an easy read the last 1/4 are a bit harder to get through.
February 3, 2019
I enjoyed this book, but I thought there were too many parts that were a bit unbelievable . It did have a unexpected ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews