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Game Piece
Detective Barry Marshall hunts for a hardened serial killer with the ultimate endgame, one intended to strip Marshall of everything he holds dear—his career, his wife, and his reputation. Unbeknownst to Marshall, the killer had dated his wife years ago. Seeing Marshall with her, the killer is pushed over the edge. He wants to punish Marshall for stealing his beloved by playing a cat-and-mouse game of murder. As the body count rises, Marshall is forced to face his worst nightmare.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2018
13 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Alan Brenham
40 books110 followersAlan Brenham is the pseudonym of Alan Behr, an American author and attorney.
He served as a law enforcement officer before earning a law degree from Baylor University and worked as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney for twenty-two years.
Alan began his writing craft by studying novels by Michael McGarrity, James Hayman, and Michael Connelly.
He has authored ten crime fiction novels. Alan and his wife, Lillian, currently live in the Central Texas area.
He served as a law enforcement officer before earning a law degree from Baylor University and worked as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney for twenty-two years.
Alan began his writing craft by studying novels by Michael McGarrity, James Hayman, and Michael Connelly.
He has authored ten crime fiction novels. Alan and his wife, Lillian, currently live in the Central Texas area.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
November 28, 2018
Detective Barry Marshall is hunting a serial killer who has only one goal ... take away everything Marshall has .... his job, his wife and daughter, his reputation. The killer is butchering people that have a connection to Marshall ... people he has connected to in the past. People he has arrested, people he has helped.
Marshall's wife, Erin, has had it up to here! He never seems to be home anymore, always more concerned about the criminals than his own family. Thanks to identity theft, she's being bombarded with calls from debt collectors. The icing on the cake is when she receives a package with photos showing her husband in the arms of another woman.
When Marshall denies he even knows this woman, Erin is torn. Does she dare believe this is the work of a killer .. or just another cover up by her husband?
Even Marshall's supervisors and fellow detectives are starting to wonder why the killer only calls him ... and why each of the victims is known to him. When his superiors take him off the case, Marshall walks away with one thought in his head .... catch whoever has done this to him and make him pay.
Checkmate.
The author has done a terrific job in bringing to life the anger, frustration, anxiety Marshal experiences. The story is also told in part by the diabolical killer. The reader learns early on the why .. but his mask is only torn away in the very surprising ending.
Many thanks to the author / BooksGoSocial / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
October 16, 2018
An action packed, psychological thriller which will keep you on the edge of your seats until the very last page.
Life is all about priorities, and Barry Marshall a Detective in the Temple Division, Texas is forever finding himself taunted by colleagues that he is a Boy Scout, brown nose, and worse. Always the last to leave the office, Barry is driven, he is contentious, proud of what he does and the differences he makes. However, his diligence often leads to him working late and both his wife Erin and his daughter Cailey miss him. Erin wants him to change career, after all he is turning out just like his father, ‘married to the job!’
This particular Friday was bad enough, discovering he had been targeted by identity thieves, that was a nuisance, then, just as he was just about to leave the phone rings…
The caller offers a lead on another case. Even though he wishes he could, Barry can’t ignore it. When he arrives at the proposed meeting place however, he soon discovers that the lead story was a red herring, instead of the informant, there are two bodies with their throats cut!
From there the story escalates with Barry centre stage. Strangely, the caller always contacts Barry’s cell phone, and seems to know what he is doing. To make things worse, tensions are growing at home as Barry is never there, and night’s out and trips to the park are pushed to one side with work taking priority.
With a serial killer on the loose in Temple, no-one is safe. As the body count rises the clues are thin and far between. Barry can’t put a face to the voice, however, one thing is certain, the killer knows him. As tensions mount at home and work, a frustrated Barry finds himself wrongly accused and desperate for answers.
This fast paced, exciting thriller has twists and turns right until the very last page. The author, Alan Brenham has used his lifetimes experience as a Texas law enforcement officer, a criminal prosecutor and later criminal defense attorney, to give his readers a real insight into what life is like when your world revolves around protecting the innocent, and those you love.
Life is all about priorities, and Barry Marshall a Detective in the Temple Division, Texas is forever finding himself taunted by colleagues that he is a Boy Scout, brown nose, and worse. Always the last to leave the office, Barry is driven, he is contentious, proud of what he does and the differences he makes. However, his diligence often leads to him working late and both his wife Erin and his daughter Cailey miss him. Erin wants him to change career, after all he is turning out just like his father, ‘married to the job!’
This particular Friday was bad enough, discovering he had been targeted by identity thieves, that was a nuisance, then, just as he was just about to leave the phone rings…
The caller offers a lead on another case. Even though he wishes he could, Barry can’t ignore it. When he arrives at the proposed meeting place however, he soon discovers that the lead story was a red herring, instead of the informant, there are two bodies with their throats cut!
From there the story escalates with Barry centre stage. Strangely, the caller always contacts Barry’s cell phone, and seems to know what he is doing. To make things worse, tensions are growing at home as Barry is never there, and night’s out and trips to the park are pushed to one side with work taking priority.
With a serial killer on the loose in Temple, no-one is safe. As the body count rises the clues are thin and far between. Barry can’t put a face to the voice, however, one thing is certain, the killer knows him. As tensions mount at home and work, a frustrated Barry finds himself wrongly accused and desperate for answers.
This fast paced, exciting thriller has twists and turns right until the very last page. The author, Alan Brenham has used his lifetimes experience as a Texas law enforcement officer, a criminal prosecutor and later criminal defense attorney, to give his readers a real insight into what life is like when your world revolves around protecting the innocent, and those you love.
October 23, 2018
‘Any thief hated exposure.’
Alan Behr, a criminal law attorney and former police officer in Austin, Texas, takes on the moniker Alan Brenham for his second career as a writer. His debut novel, PRIDE OF JUSTICE was a certified winner with awards bestowed. His second novel CORNERED bested the initial entry and then he offered RAMPAGE – more action and finer polish than those first two jewels. And now, GAME PIECE – and better yet! Working in both criminal prosecution and defense (as well as an on the ground police officer) gives him a special insight to write novels about crime and the intricacies - both positive and negative - of the criminal justice system. It also allows him scrutiny of the `good cop/bad cop' conundrum that steps beyond the writings of most other authors less exposed to the realities of our justice system. Couple these facts his natural bent for writing and the result is another novel of great distinction.
This time around we meet another Brenham detective – Barry Marshal – and from Alan’s synopsis we get the gist of the tale: ‘Temple, Texas Police Detective, Barry Marshall hunts for a hardened serial killer with the ultimate endgame, one intended to strip Marshall of everything he holds dear—his career, his wife Erin, and his reputation. Unbeknownst to Marshall, the killer had dated Erin years ago, and seeing Marshall with her pushes him over the edge. Determined to punish Marshall for stealing his beloved, the killer plays a deadly cat-and-mouse game of murder. As the body count rises, Marshall is forced to face his worst nightmare.’
Alan knows that thrillers must grab you from the first page if they are to keep your sense of inquisitiveness, and so he plunges us in with the following: ‘I snatched the phone off the cradle like it was a contest. Like there were ten other guys reaching for it. Ha. Right. Close to five p.m. on a Friday night, and everyone who could be gone already was. Except me. The boy scout they called me. Joking. Friendly. Except when it wasn’t. Behind my back it was brownnoser. Probably worse ones that I didn’t know about, but I was smart enough to guess at anyway. And all because I liked to show up on time. Answer my phone. Stay on top of the paperwork. In other words: do my job. I answered like I always did. Crisp. Cool. Professional. “Detective Division. Marshall.” I half-expected to hear the gruff voice of a man demanding to know when I’d pay up on a delinquent account. Four of those types of calls had already come in today. Identity theft. “Y’all lookin for a stolen Chevy truck?” a gravelly male voice asked. Just so happened I had an active Chevy truck case. I’d need a name to go with the information for the report. “Who’s calling?” The silence that passed made me wonder if this guy was for real or screwing with me. The seconds ticked off. Did he hang up? “Who is this?” My cop sense clicked in. Who was this guy and how did he know I was working a stolen Chevy pick-up case? I heard a faint whirring noise in the background. Some machines or a motor. Couldn’t make out what. “A concerned citizen,” he said. “Look, man, I know who stole it, and I’m sitting here looking at it. If you want the dude, meet me out here at the south parking lot at Temple Lake Park. Hurry the hell up, too, ’cause I kinda doubt the truck’ll be here much longer.” And that is merely page one of a novel with so many surprises and twists and turns that the reader grows into a detective’s mind mold.
Brenham's mastery of works and sense of tension and the realities of being a detective and finding ways to piece together a thriller while having his hero under the microscope of the criminals with life ending intentions is second to none. He is a master at molding these criminal tales and likely (and hopefully) there are more coming down the line. For those who love police/crime novels this is one of the best, and it certainly suggests that Alan Brenham has found his niche. Grady Harp, October 18
Alan Behr, a criminal law attorney and former police officer in Austin, Texas, takes on the moniker Alan Brenham for his second career as a writer. His debut novel, PRIDE OF JUSTICE was a certified winner with awards bestowed. His second novel CORNERED bested the initial entry and then he offered RAMPAGE – more action and finer polish than those first two jewels. And now, GAME PIECE – and better yet! Working in both criminal prosecution and defense (as well as an on the ground police officer) gives him a special insight to write novels about crime and the intricacies - both positive and negative - of the criminal justice system. It also allows him scrutiny of the `good cop/bad cop' conundrum that steps beyond the writings of most other authors less exposed to the realities of our justice system. Couple these facts his natural bent for writing and the result is another novel of great distinction.
This time around we meet another Brenham detective – Barry Marshal – and from Alan’s synopsis we get the gist of the tale: ‘Temple, Texas Police Detective, Barry Marshall hunts for a hardened serial killer with the ultimate endgame, one intended to strip Marshall of everything he holds dear—his career, his wife Erin, and his reputation. Unbeknownst to Marshall, the killer had dated Erin years ago, and seeing Marshall with her pushes him over the edge. Determined to punish Marshall for stealing his beloved, the killer plays a deadly cat-and-mouse game of murder. As the body count rises, Marshall is forced to face his worst nightmare.’
Alan knows that thrillers must grab you from the first page if they are to keep your sense of inquisitiveness, and so he plunges us in with the following: ‘I snatched the phone off the cradle like it was a contest. Like there were ten other guys reaching for it. Ha. Right. Close to five p.m. on a Friday night, and everyone who could be gone already was. Except me. The boy scout they called me. Joking. Friendly. Except when it wasn’t. Behind my back it was brownnoser. Probably worse ones that I didn’t know about, but I was smart enough to guess at anyway. And all because I liked to show up on time. Answer my phone. Stay on top of the paperwork. In other words: do my job. I answered like I always did. Crisp. Cool. Professional. “Detective Division. Marshall.” I half-expected to hear the gruff voice of a man demanding to know when I’d pay up on a delinquent account. Four of those types of calls had already come in today. Identity theft. “Y’all lookin for a stolen Chevy truck?” a gravelly male voice asked. Just so happened I had an active Chevy truck case. I’d need a name to go with the information for the report. “Who’s calling?” The silence that passed made me wonder if this guy was for real or screwing with me. The seconds ticked off. Did he hang up? “Who is this?” My cop sense clicked in. Who was this guy and how did he know I was working a stolen Chevy pick-up case? I heard a faint whirring noise in the background. Some machines or a motor. Couldn’t make out what. “A concerned citizen,” he said. “Look, man, I know who stole it, and I’m sitting here looking at it. If you want the dude, meet me out here at the south parking lot at Temple Lake Park. Hurry the hell up, too, ’cause I kinda doubt the truck’ll be here much longer.” And that is merely page one of a novel with so many surprises and twists and turns that the reader grows into a detective’s mind mold.
Brenham's mastery of works and sense of tension and the realities of being a detective and finding ways to piece together a thriller while having his hero under the microscope of the criminals with life ending intentions is second to none. He is a master at molding these criminal tales and likely (and hopefully) there are more coming down the line. For those who love police/crime novels this is one of the best, and it certainly suggests that Alan Brenham has found his niche. Grady Harp, October 18
November 12, 2018
Game Piece is a gripping and heart-pounding thriller, which keeps readers glued to the pages right through to a spine-chilling conclusion. Short chapters give a fast-moving rhythm to the story line and add more excitement to this crime thriller without it feeling choppy or fragmented.
Barry Marshall, a police detective in Temple, Texas, is a self-described workaholic. When Marshall checks out an anonymous lead involving one of his open cases, he discovers a gruesome murder scene. This is only the beginning of a string of murders committed by a killer who appears to have a personal vendetta against Marshall for some inscrutable reason. The two men engage in a deadly cat-and-mouse game. As the game progresses, the stakes escalate for Barry with an unanticipated effect on his career and family. Can Barry end the perpetrator’s reign of terror before his convoluted scheme succeeds?
Trepidation and conflict have been ramped up by Alan Brenham’s excellent handling of not only the multiple points of view but also the transitions between point of view characters. The majority of the story is told from Barry’s viewpoint. However, the third-person point of view provides an added dimension to the story allowing readers to understand the thoughts and motivations of other characters who play an important role.
Brenham has done a superb job of creating realistic and believable characters with their own distinct voices. Barry is a dogged investigator with a passion for justice. At the same time, he struggles to hold his family together as his wife is unhappy and pressuring him to make a career change. The killer is sadistic and manipulative, and readers gain fascinating insight into the twisted mind of a serial killer and the motives behind his heinous behavior. An adolescent bystander’s naïve actions unwittingly place him in danger.
Brenham’s expertise as a former law enforcement officer, criminal prosecutor, and criminal defense attorney adds credibility to the reliably accurate portrayal of the criminal justice system in this sophisticated edge-of-your-seat novel. Brenham wonderfully illustrates how individuals, who put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect the public from dangerous criminals, struggle with balancing their work loyalty and family life.
Barry Marshall, a police detective in Temple, Texas, is a self-described workaholic. When Marshall checks out an anonymous lead involving one of his open cases, he discovers a gruesome murder scene. This is only the beginning of a string of murders committed by a killer who appears to have a personal vendetta against Marshall for some inscrutable reason. The two men engage in a deadly cat-and-mouse game. As the game progresses, the stakes escalate for Barry with an unanticipated effect on his career and family. Can Barry end the perpetrator’s reign of terror before his convoluted scheme succeeds?
Trepidation and conflict have been ramped up by Alan Brenham’s excellent handling of not only the multiple points of view but also the transitions between point of view characters. The majority of the story is told from Barry’s viewpoint. However, the third-person point of view provides an added dimension to the story allowing readers to understand the thoughts and motivations of other characters who play an important role.
Brenham has done a superb job of creating realistic and believable characters with their own distinct voices. Barry is a dogged investigator with a passion for justice. At the same time, he struggles to hold his family together as his wife is unhappy and pressuring him to make a career change. The killer is sadistic and manipulative, and readers gain fascinating insight into the twisted mind of a serial killer and the motives behind his heinous behavior. An adolescent bystander’s naïve actions unwittingly place him in danger.
Brenham’s expertise as a former law enforcement officer, criminal prosecutor, and criminal defense attorney adds credibility to the reliably accurate portrayal of the criminal justice system in this sophisticated edge-of-your-seat novel. Brenham wonderfully illustrates how individuals, who put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect the public from dangerous criminals, struggle with balancing their work loyalty and family life.
January 14, 2019
This novel was really enjoyable, gripping from the first page. The way this author writes his novels feels as if its real life in a way all the discovering of the evidence to the blackmail and the serial killer messing with the detectives marriage by trying to set him up saying he is dating or seeing another woman. Very good and gripping and crazy how one person can mess with another persons life and how far one person will go just to try to take everything away from another!
December 24, 2018
This book was action-packed and full of suspense. More important than that it was knowledgeable. I do wish this would have led to a series because Barry and his wife were likable characters. I received a copy of this book from eBook Discovery. I am voluntarily posting this review. This is my honest review.
February 26, 2019
A gripping edge of your seat thriller that keeps your fingers burning through the pages until the very end.
Well thought out and executed, the author brings us into the life of an obsessed cop on the fringe of turning his life into a mess.
Loved this story so much!
Well thought out and executed, the author brings us into the life of an obsessed cop on the fringe of turning his life into a mess.
Loved this story so much!
December 11, 2018
An interesting and tense psychological thriller based on events from the past. A surprising twist in the tale reveals how the killer gets his information. All in all a good read, a tad slow to start with but heating up very nicely towards the end.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
I received this book for free from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily review this book. This is my honest review.
February 14, 2019
I was hooked from the start till the very end. Normally read James Patterson and Alan Brenham could be the next James Patterson. I look forward to reading more from him.
November 26, 2018
No one is safe!
Detective Barry Marshall has his work cut out to clear his name as a crafty serial Miller targets him in his sights.
A fast paced thriller with twists and turns that will keep you page turning until the end!
Detective Barry Marshall has his work cut out to clear his name as a crafty serial Miller targets him in his sights.
A fast paced thriller with twists and turns that will keep you page turning until the end!
November 16, 2019
Game Piece by Alan Brenham was an exciting read from start to finish. The characters were all engaging, especially the lead, Barry Marshall. The story starts off with the murder of a young couple along a hiking trail which Barry is called to investigate. From that point on, the killer makes his presence known to Barry through a serious of taunting cell phone calls which set off an intriguing story of cat and mouse right down to the end. During this desperate manhunt, Barry finds his personal and work life turned upside in ways he could never imagine. A great read for those who enjoy thrillers and suspense.
November 16, 2018
A serial killer is determined to destroy the marriage and life of Temple, Texas Detective Barry Marshall. He will play a game with Barry as the “game piece” as he slowly pursues his destruction. Barry is married to Elin with a young daughter, Cailey. He is beginning to realize that he has allowed his job as an honest and good detective to keep him from his personal life with his family…too many dates cancelled…to many family events missed. Can Barry defeat this anonymous foe and rescue his marriage to Erin? Why is this man pursuing Barry in such a diabolical manner? A very enjoyable mystery with many twists that keep you guessing until the very end. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to give an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
December 1, 2018
Awesome mystery novel
Game Piece is the story of how one cop is toyed with by a serial killer and his journey to put a stop to it. This serial killer is specifically targeting him to mess with as they share a connection through the cop (Barry)’s wife. While the description of the book spoils who the serial killer is, it was quite interesting to see how he makes his next move. That said, it is way more of a psychological mystery than a gory thriller. The main character seems to be very relatable in his dedication to his job while trying to find a family balance. Very well done and easy to follow. I enjoyed this book!
Game Piece is the story of how one cop is toyed with by a serial killer and his journey to put a stop to it. This serial killer is specifically targeting him to mess with as they share a connection through the cop (Barry)’s wife. While the description of the book spoils who the serial killer is, it was quite interesting to see how he makes his next move. That said, it is way more of a psychological mystery than a gory thriller. The main character seems to be very relatable in his dedication to his job while trying to find a family balance. Very well done and easy to follow. I enjoyed this book!
November 17, 2018
Really exciting, scary story!! So many unexpected twists and turns that I was totally surprised with the ending!! Great!!
November 14, 2018
Really outstanding!! Action-packed thriller with great characters!! So scary and so realistic! I had a hard time putting this wonderful story down!! Loved it!
October 5, 2018
Police Detective Barry Marshall can't seem to catch a break. He's worked two major cases and become a victim of identity theft when another case falls into his lap. The problem is that this time, it's personal. The perpetrator is targeting individuals who have crossed paths with Barry in unfortunate ways, and taunts Barry with a call after each murder. A series of dead ends and an increasing body count put the pressure on to solve the case. But when the killer crosses another line by setting Barry up professionally and personally, it's obvious that Barry's done something to set this psychopath off. Game Piece, by Alan Brenham, is a fast paced thriller that takes readers on an exciting journey of murder, revenge, and the power of love to drive people mad.
I enjoyed Game Piece. It was an exceptionally well written and thrilling mystery novel with excellent, believable characters, a thrilling adventure, and action on every page. There are no "slow scenes," and the story moved along at a great pace to keep readers engaged and guessing not who the killer is, but rather how he will continue to evade Barry Marshall. Barry is also a believable and interesting character, with all of the charms, faults, and quirks that make a character so real that you'd believe they could be a real friend, neighbor, colleague, or more importantly, a detective you don't want to cross paths with! Alan Brenham has crafted a wonderful, exciting mystery that will keep readers engaged to the last page, and beyond. An excellent novel!
I enjoyed Game Piece. It was an exceptionally well written and thrilling mystery novel with excellent, believable characters, a thrilling adventure, and action on every page. There are no "slow scenes," and the story moved along at a great pace to keep readers engaged and guessing not who the killer is, but rather how he will continue to evade Barry Marshall. Barry is also a believable and interesting character, with all of the charms, faults, and quirks that make a character so real that you'd believe they could be a real friend, neighbor, colleague, or more importantly, a detective you don't want to cross paths with! Alan Brenham has crafted a wonderful, exciting mystery that will keep readers engaged to the last page, and beyond. An excellent novel!
October 24, 2019
Game piece is a beautifully articulated psychological thriller.
Detective Marshall is good at what he does.But when a crazy serial killer comes after him with everything he's got,its time for the detective to up his game plan.While trying to find the serial killer,he loses everything.He's got guts and his wits about him.
Alan Brenham never fails deliver.Everyone of his books has a real gut wrenching kick.
Detective Marshall is good at what he does.But when a crazy serial killer comes after him with everything he's got,its time for the detective to up his game plan.While trying to find the serial killer,he loses everything.He's got guts and his wits about him.
Alan Brenham never fails deliver.Everyone of his books has a real gut wrenching kick.
March 2, 2019
Reviewed by Michel Violante for Reader Views (2/19)
“Game Piece” by Alan Brenham is the story of Barry Marshall, a detective from Temple, Texas. It begins when he receives an anonymous phone call asking if he is investigating the case of the stolen truck, which he was. The caller told him he could see the truck and they should go pick it up before the driver gets back. Barry decided this was a genuine lead and he decided to go check it out. But when he arrived at Temple Lake Park, he didn’t find the truck, instead he found a Mini-Cooper in the parking lot. The caller had said that he would wait for him on the covered picnic table, but what found was two bodies: a young Hispanic woman and a white male with their throats cut. As the detective begins his investigation, the caller continues calling him teasing him about he found, and what he will keep finding as the body count increases. No doubt this is a serial killer. What set him apart was the fact that most victims had been in contact somehow with Barry Marshall acting as cop.
Alan Brenham presents readers with a well written, fast-paced, crime mystery filled with genuine, interesting dialogue that moves the story forward and captivates readers, gluing them to each page. The characters are real and relatable. This thrilling page turner kept me guessing from the beginning as Detective Marshall and the serial killer played to outsmart each other: one to put an end to the killing, the other to destroy Marshall’s life. The fast pace and plot are proof of the author’s masterful writing skills. I was consumed with this book from the beginning, and though eager to get to the end, I was sad when it was over! The intriguing plot took over my mind. Brenham is an author to follow.
I highly recommend “Game Piece” by Alan Brenham as a Five-Star fast-paced, thrilling page turner for all mystery lovers looking for an exciting psychological thriller. A must read!
“Game Piece” by Alan Brenham is the story of Barry Marshall, a detective from Temple, Texas. It begins when he receives an anonymous phone call asking if he is investigating the case of the stolen truck, which he was. The caller told him he could see the truck and they should go pick it up before the driver gets back. Barry decided this was a genuine lead and he decided to go check it out. But when he arrived at Temple Lake Park, he didn’t find the truck, instead he found a Mini-Cooper in the parking lot. The caller had said that he would wait for him on the covered picnic table, but what found was two bodies: a young Hispanic woman and a white male with their throats cut. As the detective begins his investigation, the caller continues calling him teasing him about he found, and what he will keep finding as the body count increases. No doubt this is a serial killer. What set him apart was the fact that most victims had been in contact somehow with Barry Marshall acting as cop.
Alan Brenham presents readers with a well written, fast-paced, crime mystery filled with genuine, interesting dialogue that moves the story forward and captivates readers, gluing them to each page. The characters are real and relatable. This thrilling page turner kept me guessing from the beginning as Detective Marshall and the serial killer played to outsmart each other: one to put an end to the killing, the other to destroy Marshall’s life. The fast pace and plot are proof of the author’s masterful writing skills. I was consumed with this book from the beginning, and though eager to get to the end, I was sad when it was over! The intriguing plot took over my mind. Brenham is an author to follow.
I highly recommend “Game Piece” by Alan Brenham as a Five-Star fast-paced, thrilling page turner for all mystery lovers looking for an exciting psychological thriller. A must read!
April 20, 2019
Detective Barry Marshall is dedicated to his job. He is constantly picked on by fellow officers because: he shows up on time, answers his phone and does his paperwork. He stays late and gets everything in order for his next shift even if that means canceling plans with his wife.
Whew, his wife..... where do I begin? I didn't like her from the beginning. It irritates me to no end to read about drunkards or about someone who doesn't understand that being a cop means working late hours, long shifts and canceled plans. She just so happens to be both of those. (Also I don't like those type of people in real life either). Nonetheless though, Barry loves her but you can tell, she pushes him to the point of a blow up.
He receives a call on a potential lead for his case, however when he shows up he doesn't expect a double homicide. What he doesn't know is: the killer is watching him, calling him and knows him on a personal level. It's just a game of cat and mouse and unfortunately, Barry is the mouse in this situation.
I found this book extremely cliché. It was way to easy for me to figure out what was going to happen next. I often found myself putting it down and working on a different book. I would have loved to see more character development, more mystery and suspense. It was just an okay read for me. I didn't love it but I didn't hate it. I suppose I'm on the fence about it.
Having said that, I give it 3/5 stars. And as I mentioned, it wasn't a horrible read but it wasn't spectacular either. So I believe in the middle is an okay rating for it.
I'm thankful to have been given the opportunity to participate in the Review Campaign for this book, which is sponsored by Pump Up Your Book.
Whew, his wife..... where do I begin? I didn't like her from the beginning. It irritates me to no end to read about drunkards or about someone who doesn't understand that being a cop means working late hours, long shifts and canceled plans. She just so happens to be both of those. (Also I don't like those type of people in real life either). Nonetheless though, Barry loves her but you can tell, she pushes him to the point of a blow up.
He receives a call on a potential lead for his case, however when he shows up he doesn't expect a double homicide. What he doesn't know is: the killer is watching him, calling him and knows him on a personal level. It's just a game of cat and mouse and unfortunately, Barry is the mouse in this situation.
I found this book extremely cliché. It was way to easy for me to figure out what was going to happen next. I often found myself putting it down and working on a different book. I would have loved to see more character development, more mystery and suspense. It was just an okay read for me. I didn't love it but I didn't hate it. I suppose I'm on the fence about it.
Having said that, I give it 3/5 stars. And as I mentioned, it wasn't a horrible read but it wasn't spectacular either. So I believe in the middle is an okay rating for it.
I'm thankful to have been given the opportunity to participate in the Review Campaign for this book, which is sponsored by Pump Up Your Book.
March 27, 2024
Having grown up in a family of law enforcement the home life, marital stress, and dedication to the job are all too familiar. Author Alan Brenham captures all this and more in this first book of The Barry Marshall Series, “Game Piece.”
Cancelled date nights, working weekends, late hours, and minimal time with young daughter, Cailey, are all too frequent in the Marshall household. Barry Marshall’s wife, Erin, has had enough. Pressuring him to take a teaching job, the stress of his work coupled with the murder of her uncle, ATF agent Sam Robbins, has Erin looking for every reason to get Barry in a safer career.
Currently working what is quickly stacking up to be a serial killer on the loose, Barry is committed to stopping the murderer, once again at the expense of his family. As deaths continue to stack up, Barry recognizes the victims. Barry seems to be part of the killer’s game as he continues to phone him, plant clues, and taunt him over the phone. While all this is occurring, Erin’s girl’s nights become more frequent, as pressure from her friends, and the stress of the killer comes to a head.
Brenham brilliantly captures the life of law enforcement families, the push and pull of saving others and maintaining a family balance. The realities are glaringly on display as the Marshall family navigates the weight of Barry’s career.
Barry Marshall makes for a relatable and frustrating main character. Continuously choosing one at the expense of another. “Game Piece,” and the killer’s game of murder, keeps readers on their toes as the hunt wears on. Racing against the clock, Brenham’s Barry Marshall Series is an intense ride.
Cancelled date nights, working weekends, late hours, and minimal time with young daughter, Cailey, are all too frequent in the Marshall household. Barry Marshall’s wife, Erin, has had enough. Pressuring him to take a teaching job, the stress of his work coupled with the murder of her uncle, ATF agent Sam Robbins, has Erin looking for every reason to get Barry in a safer career.
Currently working what is quickly stacking up to be a serial killer on the loose, Barry is committed to stopping the murderer, once again at the expense of his family. As deaths continue to stack up, Barry recognizes the victims. Barry seems to be part of the killer’s game as he continues to phone him, plant clues, and taunt him over the phone. While all this is occurring, Erin’s girl’s nights become more frequent, as pressure from her friends, and the stress of the killer comes to a head.
Brenham brilliantly captures the life of law enforcement families, the push and pull of saving others and maintaining a family balance. The realities are glaringly on display as the Marshall family navigates the weight of Barry’s career.
Barry Marshall makes for a relatable and frustrating main character. Continuously choosing one at the expense of another. “Game Piece,” and the killer’s game of murder, keeps readers on their toes as the hunt wears on. Racing against the clock, Brenham’s Barry Marshall Series is an intense ride.
February 15, 2020
Many thanks to Alan Brenham and Booktasters for providing a copy of this book for an honest review. Game Piece is an action-packed adrenalin rush from the first chapter to the nail-biting conclusion.
Detective Barry Marshall is in the middle of investigating a case regarding his stolen identity when he receives a phone call. It leads him to the first of many killings with the killer out for revenge against the detective for stealing something from him. The killer wants to destroy the detective's life, marriage, and livelihood. Having obtained the case files, the killer targets people who have had run-ins with the detective, killing each one by one then calling Marshall to taunt him afterward.
The detective's heavy workload causes strain in his marriage and his relationship with his daughter because of his long working hours. It comes to a head when his wife receives an envelope with incriminating photos of his supposed affair.
With a rising body count, Marshall realizes that the danger is closer than he thinks when he realizes who the killer is targeting next.
Game Piece is a tightly written roller coaster ride that doesn't let up. If you are looking for an action-packed story, jaw-dropping plot twists, and a satisfying conclusion, I recommend adding this book to your collection.
Detective Barry Marshall is in the middle of investigating a case regarding his stolen identity when he receives a phone call. It leads him to the first of many killings with the killer out for revenge against the detective for stealing something from him. The killer wants to destroy the detective's life, marriage, and livelihood. Having obtained the case files, the killer targets people who have had run-ins with the detective, killing each one by one then calling Marshall to taunt him afterward.
The detective's heavy workload causes strain in his marriage and his relationship with his daughter because of his long working hours. It comes to a head when his wife receives an envelope with incriminating photos of his supposed affair.
With a rising body count, Marshall realizes that the danger is closer than he thinks when he realizes who the killer is targeting next.
Game Piece is a tightly written roller coaster ride that doesn't let up. If you are looking for an action-packed story, jaw-dropping plot twists, and a satisfying conclusion, I recommend adding this book to your collection.
May 4, 2019
If you love psychological thrillers and nail-biting suspense, then Alan Brenham’s Game piece is a must read.
Detective Barry Marshall finds himself in a game of cat and mouse with a delusional killer. The killer seemed to be targeting anyone who ever had a connection with Marshall. After each murder, detective Marshall received a blocked call, from the killer, that would lead him to the bodies. Marshall is soon faced with the reality that the killings are not random, and that his wife and daughter could both be in mortal danger. With his career, his reputation, and his family on the life Marshall has everything to lose if he does not catch this killer.
Alan Brenham’s experience as a law enforcement officer, criminal prosecutor, and criminal defense attorney are evident throughout the novel. Except for a few typos, that do not take away from the content, this gripping psychological thriller was well written and edited. It will keep you reading late into the night. The constant twist and turns throughout the plot will keep you entertained and engrossed from the first page to the very end. This novel is highly addictive with a heart-stopping climax.
I was provided with a free copy of this book for an honest and voluntary review.
Detective Barry Marshall finds himself in a game of cat and mouse with a delusional killer. The killer seemed to be targeting anyone who ever had a connection with Marshall. After each murder, detective Marshall received a blocked call, from the killer, that would lead him to the bodies. Marshall is soon faced with the reality that the killings are not random, and that his wife and daughter could both be in mortal danger. With his career, his reputation, and his family on the life Marshall has everything to lose if he does not catch this killer.
Alan Brenham’s experience as a law enforcement officer, criminal prosecutor, and criminal defense attorney are evident throughout the novel. Except for a few typos, that do not take away from the content, this gripping psychological thriller was well written and edited. It will keep you reading late into the night. The constant twist and turns throughout the plot will keep you entertained and engrossed from the first page to the very end. This novel is highly addictive with a heart-stopping climax.
I was provided with a free copy of this book for an honest and voluntary review.
April 4, 2019
In this psychological thriller, Temple Police Detective Barry Marshall is stalked by a man from his wife Erin's past. He's stolen Barry's identity causing continuous calls from credit card agencies regards to outstanding debt. He's gotten inside information on the homicide cases that Barry is working day and night to solve. After every new murder he calls Barry and get's him out to the scene on false pretenses. He anonymously delivers incriminating photo's of Barry with another woman, to Erin, detailing an affair with Sharon Turner. Barry has the inside track to a murderer and his bosses want to know why. In this cat and mouse game, Barry's life is turned upside down as the murderer continues his spree of murder and revenge to the final scene. Great read. Happy reading.
January 11, 2019
Barry Marshall is a Police Detective for Temple Texas. He is after a serial killer, one that is very ruthless. What Barry doesn't know, is that this killer is after everything and anything that Barry holds near and dear. This killer wants to destroy EVERYTHING about Barry Marshall. It is the ultimate revenge. Barry also doesn't know that his wife, Erin, used to date this guy and that is what is the final blow to make him go after Barry. This is a very well written intense story about what a crazed mind can and will do to get what he wants.....but does he succeed? That is for you to find out when you read the book. I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of this book from BookSends ARC.
February 17, 2019
I received a review copy of this book from the author through Voracious Readers. This is a fantastic thriller and had me enthralled from the beginning. The writing is sharp and fast paced and the characters are all solid and engaging. The storyline is full of intrigue and suspense and pulls the reader from one heart stopping moment to the next. It is a psychological thriller at its core, but is also full of nonstop action and drama - enough action and drama to satisfy an adrenaline junkie. I particularly liked that the author included chapters told from the villain’s point of view - very chilling and unnerving. I enjoyed this book immensely. Fantastic read!
March 19, 2020
Alan Brenham, does it again in "Game Piece" . His experiences as a real-life detective is felt throughout his novels, he easily takes you away to the tough streets a cop walks everyday!
This novel is great away to escape from Covid-19 pandemic hitting the globe, and places you in a tough town in Texas, U.S. where nobody can be trusted and nothing is what it seems and only on detective finds the missing game pieces.
If you want true crime facts mixed with excellent writing and twists and plots that keep you interested right to the very last page, Alan Brenham and is novels are a great read especially during these times of isolating.
This novel is great away to escape from Covid-19 pandemic hitting the globe, and places you in a tough town in Texas, U.S. where nobody can be trusted and nothing is what it seems and only on detective finds the missing game pieces.
If you want true crime facts mixed with excellent writing and twists and plots that keep you interested right to the very last page, Alan Brenham and is novels are a great read especially during these times of isolating.
November 6, 2019
This is definitely a gritty detective book. Detective Marshall is hunting a serial killer who is taunting his every kill with a phone call to Marshall. I liked that the book changed point of view per chapter. It helped to keep the book moving and you not sure what all was happening. For me, there was too much unnecessary swearing and the constant nagging wife fights were a bit too monotonous. The ending was quick and didn’t leave much fulfillment. All in all it was a good read and Marshall was a fun character to follow.
November 10, 2019
A tense and scary thriller about a serial killer following a detective. The end was unpredictable and the detective's solutions were unexpected. I found the motives of the killer unrealistic and irrelevant to the crimes committed. Also, I found it strange that the language used by the detective was not suitable for a policeman in comparison to the language used by the killer in the story. I would give three stars for the suspense and the action.
March 30, 2019
I enjoyed this book even though I had a pretty good idea halfway through who the killer would be, even if I didn't know all the backstory to why he was the killer. I would probably read something else by this author in the future.
I received this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I received this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2019
Game Piece was a great read that pulled me in right from the start. The serial killer vibe was realistic and I loved Marshall as he made for a great main character and I could not help, but love him as he found himself against a serial killer who had once known his wife and now wanted revenge of Marshall for being with her.
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