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Jan Tommen Investigation #1
Bis alle Schuld beglichen (Ein Jan-Tommen-Thriller)
An einem Sonntagmorgen werden Jan Tommen und seine Freundin Betty von Jans Kollegen der Berliner Mordkommission aus dem Bett geklingelt. Er steht unter dringendem Tatverdacht, die Beweislage ist Sein Auto wurde am Tatort gesehen, die Tatwaffe ist mit seinen Fingerabdrücken übersät und seine DNA wurde am Opfer gefunden. Bei dem Toten handelt es sich um Richter Georg Holoch, der Jan vor Jahren wegen Körperverletzung im Dienst verurteilte. Damit gibt es auch ein Motiv Jan hat keinerlei Erinnerung an den Vorabend. Dem erfahrenen Mordermittler bleibt nichts anderes übrig, als aus der Untersuchungshaft zu fliehen und abzutauchen. Er muss auf eigene Faust nach dem wahren Täter suchen. Der befreundete Geldeintreiber Chandu, die Forensikerin Zoe und der spätpubertierende Computer-Freak Max helfen ihm dabei. Der Mörder hat gerade erst damit begonnen, seine schrecklichen Pläne in die Tat umzusetzen…
287 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2013
327 people are currently reading
843 people want to read
About the author
Alexander Hartung
41 books104 followersAlexander Hartung lives in his hometown of Mannheim, Germany, with his wife and young son. He discovered his love of thrillers while studying economics. Until the Debt is Paid follows hard-partying detective Jan Tommen through Berlin, a city the author previously called home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
May 21, 2015
A book that grabs you at the start and does not let go. The plot is fantastic with a pace that is steady and fast enough to keep you hooked in on every word. I had never heard of this author until I read this book but it's a very sophisticated and well written book, not many books these days stand out in the crime thriller genre, it's a saturated place. This one has made it's mark, really liked it a lot.
Berlin detective Jan Tommen expected to wake up with a hangover—not a murder charge. But a well-known judge has been brutally killed and hard evidence places Jan at the crime scene. When disturbing gaps in Jan’s memory make finding an alibi impossible, the case against him looks open and shut.
Faced with life on the inside, Jan flees police custody to take refuge with an old friend deeply enmeshed in the capital’s seedy underworld. Hampered by a citywide manhunt. Desperate to prove his innocence, Jan must identify the true killer—before his time finally runs out.
This story just sizzles with excitement.
Jan has been tagged as the murderer of a Judge, the problem is, he didn't do it, so why has someone set him up? He can't be heard within the police unit he belongs too so he has to go into hiding and fly under the radar to conduct his own investigation. The deeper he goes into things the more ugly stuff he uncovers, before long the murders are linked to a trafficking ring and things are about to get very unpleasant.
Along with Jan are some interesting sidekicks, all fantastic characters in their own rights, with different skills and attributes. They are a force to be reckoned with when all the brains and brawn is put together. Jan is determined to clear his name but it's not going to be easy.
There is plenty of action, twists and turns in this on, the pace is strong and you won't get bored reading it. It's very well written, you just flow along with the book and let it take you with it. There are some great scenes in this book that were just fabulously written.
I really enjoyed the buzz of this crime thriller and going undercover with Jan to find out who the real killer was. I had guessed right on who it was towards the end of the book, but not before more killings had happened, this killer is on a mission, but why try to frame Jan for it?
Does Jan clear his name from these gruesome and personal murders? You will have to read to find out. Really great action packed and intriguing read. 4.5 stars from me for this one.
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, many thanks.
Berlin detective Jan Tommen expected to wake up with a hangover—not a murder charge. But a well-known judge has been brutally killed and hard evidence places Jan at the crime scene. When disturbing gaps in Jan’s memory make finding an alibi impossible, the case against him looks open and shut.
Faced with life on the inside, Jan flees police custody to take refuge with an old friend deeply enmeshed in the capital’s seedy underworld. Hampered by a citywide manhunt. Desperate to prove his innocence, Jan must identify the true killer—before his time finally runs out.
This story just sizzles with excitement.
Jan has been tagged as the murderer of a Judge, the problem is, he didn't do it, so why has someone set him up? He can't be heard within the police unit he belongs too so he has to go into hiding and fly under the radar to conduct his own investigation. The deeper he goes into things the more ugly stuff he uncovers, before long the murders are linked to a trafficking ring and things are about to get very unpleasant.
Along with Jan are some interesting sidekicks, all fantastic characters in their own rights, with different skills and attributes. They are a force to be reckoned with when all the brains and brawn is put together. Jan is determined to clear his name but it's not going to be easy.
There is plenty of action, twists and turns in this on, the pace is strong and you won't get bored reading it. It's very well written, you just flow along with the book and let it take you with it. There are some great scenes in this book that were just fabulously written.
I really enjoyed the buzz of this crime thriller and going undercover with Jan to find out who the real killer was. I had guessed right on who it was towards the end of the book, but not before more killings had happened, this killer is on a mission, but why try to frame Jan for it?
Does Jan clear his name from these gruesome and personal murders? You will have to read to find out. Really great action packed and intriguing read. 4.5 stars from me for this one.
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, many thanks.
November 9, 2017
Im Grunde bekommt man mit diesem selbst verlegten Buch einen soliden Thriller vorgelegt, wie ihn der Großteil der Zielgruppe gerne liest. Cooler Protagonist, ungewöhnliches Ermittlungsteam, eine Reihe sich in ihrer Grausamkeit immer weiter steigende Morde, relativ vorhersehbarer Plottwist und eine eindimensionale Geschichte mit hohem Dialoganteil. Dafür bekommt das Buch, zumal auch noch ein Erstlingswerk, relativ gute Noten.
Aber nicht von mir. Ich gehöre nicht zu dieser Zielgruppe, lese aber halt doch immer mal wieder ein Thriller zwischendurch und bin dann enttäuscht, wenn sich die Spannung in erster Linie aus der Perversität des Mörders speist. Da werden Holzpfähle durch lebendige Körper getrieben und Augäpfel bei lebendigem Leib ausgelöffelt und dann wird dieser Sachverhalt nicht mir einmal erwähnt, sondern gleich mehrmals beschrieben. Sprachlich war das Buch in den ersten Kapitel eine Katastrophe, klischeehafte Formulierungen zur Spannungserzeugung, fehlerhafte Redewendungen oder Sachverhaltsdarstellungen. Das legte sich zum Glück im Verlauf des Buchs, so dass es sich zum Schluss immer besser lesen lies. Gefallen hat mir das Ermittlungsteam mit den sehr unterschiedlichen Charakteren, welches leider immer wieder zwanghaft spaßig sein wollte. Insgesamt ein paar gute Ansätze, aber letztlich für mich doch kein gutes Buch.
Aber nicht von mir. Ich gehöre nicht zu dieser Zielgruppe, lese aber halt doch immer mal wieder ein Thriller zwischendurch und bin dann enttäuscht, wenn sich die Spannung in erster Linie aus der Perversität des Mörders speist. Da werden Holzpfähle durch lebendige Körper getrieben und Augäpfel bei lebendigem Leib ausgelöffelt und dann wird dieser Sachverhalt nicht mir einmal erwähnt, sondern gleich mehrmals beschrieben. Sprachlich war das Buch in den ersten Kapitel eine Katastrophe, klischeehafte Formulierungen zur Spannungserzeugung, fehlerhafte Redewendungen oder Sachverhaltsdarstellungen. Das legte sich zum Glück im Verlauf des Buchs, so dass es sich zum Schluss immer besser lesen lies. Gefallen hat mir das Ermittlungsteam mit den sehr unterschiedlichen Charakteren, welches leider immer wieder zwanghaft spaßig sein wollte. Insgesamt ein paar gute Ansätze, aber letztlich für mich doch kein gutes Buch.
September 30, 2014
I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley. Thank you, Amazon Publishing!
Loved it! I love contemporary European crime novels. The few German authors I have read were not too much to my liking, They talk too much about their feelings and rely too heavily on coincidence. But Until the Debt is Paid, is non-stop action. A wrongly accused cop tries to clear his name and solve the crimes that he is being framed for. I did guess the identity of the killer from the beginning, but it was interesting to find out why. It as a little silly that Jan can't tell that his attacker is . Even if he couldn't see the aggressor's face, that was implausible and the one thing I think could have been better. Other than that, I had fun reading this novel. I loved his ragtag team of freaks and look forward to a possible series with these characters. Most of all, I thought it was funny and at times I was laughing out loud, something that does't usually happen in a good thriller.
Loved it! I love contemporary European crime novels. The few German authors I have read were not too much to my liking, They talk too much about their feelings and rely too heavily on coincidence. But Until the Debt is Paid, is non-stop action. A wrongly accused cop tries to clear his name and solve the crimes that he is being framed for. I did guess the identity of the killer from the beginning, but it was interesting to find out why. It as a little silly that Jan can't tell that his attacker is . Even if he couldn't see the aggressor's face, that was implausible and the one thing I think could have been better. Other than that, I had fun reading this novel. I loved his ragtag team of freaks and look forward to a possible series with these characters. Most of all, I thought it was funny and at times I was laughing out loud, something that does't usually happen in a good thriller.
June 2, 2018
Als Richter Georg Holoch brutal ermordet wird, gerät der Kommissar Jan Tommen unter Mordverdacht. Er flieht aus der Untersuchungshaft und versucht selbständig, seine Unschuld zu beweisen. Die Zeit drängt, denn es geschieht ein weiterer Mord, der ebenfalls mit Jan in Verbindung gebracht werden kann…
Mein Leseeindruck:
Obwohl der Krimi mich gut unterhalten konnte, hat er mich nicht gänzlich überzeugt. Dafür war die Mordermittlung, die Jan eigenständig betreibt, viel zu problemlos. Ich kann mir nicht vorstellen, dass ein Polizist auf der Flucht mit einem gefälschten Ausweis so problemlos überall hineinkommt und Leute befragen kann, ohne dass es irgendwann auffällt bzw. er aufgehalten wird. Das ist sehr unglaubwürdig.
Trotzdem gebe ich dem Buch vier Sterne, weil es mich unterhalten konnte, jedoch sollte man die Handlung nicht zu sehr hinterfragen.
Mein Leseeindruck:
Obwohl der Krimi mich gut unterhalten konnte, hat er mich nicht gänzlich überzeugt. Dafür war die Mordermittlung, die Jan eigenständig betreibt, viel zu problemlos. Ich kann mir nicht vorstellen, dass ein Polizist auf der Flucht mit einem gefälschten Ausweis so problemlos überall hineinkommt und Leute befragen kann, ohne dass es irgendwann auffällt bzw. er aufgehalten wird. Das ist sehr unglaubwürdig.
Trotzdem gebe ich dem Buch vier Sterne, weil es mich unterhalten konnte, jedoch sollte man die Handlung nicht zu sehr hinterfragen.
October 14, 2014
Jan Tommen, a Berlin homicide detective in love with Betty his new girlfriend, wakes up with not only a hangover but a big gap in his memory. Returning to work he is assigned a new case, where he quickly becomes the prime suspect. Not trusting his colleague to clear him, he goes on the run enlisting help of friends to help with the investigation to clear his name. You might think this is bad enough but it gets worse with more dead bodies. Alexander Hartung has written an outstanding murder mystery, keeping you guessing who is guilty all the way through. The graphic description of the crimes sets an unreal atmosphere and elevates the story to a new level of urgency to solve the murders. The translator Steve Anderson should also take credit creating an exciting easy to read thriller.
January 9, 2017
Writing a review for this and not using the words 'cliché' or 'predictable' would be impossible. But, that being said it was really entertaining and the characters were kinda fun I guess.
I totally saw the ending coming from miles away.
2,5 stars
Also, disclaimer: I very rarely read thrillers and crime novels. In fact I really don't enjoy them and I find them to be easy entertainment and not worth the read most of the time. Had this not been free on audible, I don't think I would have ever even considered it, but it was an okay read and something people who don't read much would definitely enjoy.
I totally saw the ending coming from miles away.
2,5 stars
Also, disclaimer: I very rarely read thrillers and crime novels. In fact I really don't enjoy them and I find them to be easy entertainment and not worth the read most of the time. Had this not been free on audible, I don't think I would have ever even considered it, but it was an okay read and something people who don't read much would definitely enjoy.
January 25, 2015
I'm actually a little surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I wasn't expecting much - it's fairly short for the advertised plot and is translated from German - but it turned out to be a great afternoon read!
The plot is well paced and while dark, very readable. I don't think it was ever too unreasonable or into the realm of fantasy which made the whole thing very enjoyable. There was no magical all knowing character who always had the next lead - every bit of information was earned. There were lots of errors and flaws in the thoughts of those investigating leaving lots of room for surprises. That coupled with the sheer speed of the plot leaves the reader completely off guard without feeling stupid or frustrated.
Despite the fact that the characters were maybe a tad too one dimensional they were enjoyable companions. They all had hints of deeper characterization that would be wonderful to see in any future books, which I hope to see published and translated one day, there is a very solid place to pick up from.
Overall it was a great read that wasn't bogged down by over complicated prose or drab unnecessary scenes. It was a very enjoyable read and I would absolutely recommend it and look forward to any future sequels.
The plot is well paced and while dark, very readable. I don't think it was ever too unreasonable or into the realm of fantasy which made the whole thing very enjoyable. There was no magical all knowing character who always had the next lead - every bit of information was earned. There were lots of errors and flaws in the thoughts of those investigating leaving lots of room for surprises. That coupled with the sheer speed of the plot leaves the reader completely off guard without feeling stupid or frustrated.
Despite the fact that the characters were maybe a tad too one dimensional they were enjoyable companions. They all had hints of deeper characterization that would be wonderful to see in any future books, which I hope to see published and translated one day, there is a very solid place to pick up from.
Overall it was a great read that wasn't bogged down by over complicated prose or drab unnecessary scenes. It was a very enjoyable read and I would absolutely recommend it and look forward to any future sequels.
November 1, 2014
This is a blazing fast story that will catch you with the opening murder and hold you down until the very end. The pace of this book is quick from the beginning and doesn't slow down. I was half way done before I noticed.
A great story about perceptions and jumping to conclusions. Each character makes some fatal flaws in their decision making that costs lives and prolonges a killing streak. Two detectives overshadowed by grief and unable to see through it. A motley group of friends that band together to help one in need, even if he is accused of murder. The forming of an elite if not quirky special department of investigations that gives hints of a sequel.
Brilliantly written this story makes it hard to take a breath.
It is nice to see a detective story where there isn't an omniscient Inspector who pulls it all together in the end. Sometimes, things just happen by chance.
Excellent character depth, a plot with plenty of murder, light on coarse language, not overly graphic in the grisly details, a definite winner.
A great story about perceptions and jumping to conclusions. Each character makes some fatal flaws in their decision making that costs lives and prolonges a killing streak. Two detectives overshadowed by grief and unable to see through it. A motley group of friends that band together to help one in need, even if he is accused of murder. The forming of an elite if not quirky special department of investigations that gives hints of a sequel.
Brilliantly written this story makes it hard to take a breath.
It is nice to see a detective story where there isn't an omniscient Inspector who pulls it all together in the end. Sometimes, things just happen by chance.
Excellent character depth, a plot with plenty of murder, light on coarse language, not overly graphic in the grisly details, a definite winner.
July 20, 2017
Der Roman beginnt mit einem Paukenschlag. Ein Richter wird brutal ermordet, der Täter muss einen unendlichen Hass auf ihn haben, denn er zertrümmert buchstäblich jeden Knochen im Körper des Opfers. Ein Verdächtiger ist sehr schnell ermittelt. Jan Tommen, selbst Mitglied der Ermittlergruppe. Er hat einen Filmriss über die letzten 36 Stunden, aber sein Blut wird am Tatort gefunden, sein Auto am Tatort gesichtet und Blut des Opfers auf seinem Hemd. Mit Hilfe seines Freundes, dem Türsteher und in der Unterwelt durchaus bekannten, Chandu gelingt ihm die Flucht noch ehe er in der Untersuchungshaft ankommt und so macht er sich selbst daran Licht ins Dunkel zu bringen.
An sich ein rasanter und mitreißender Thriller, aber irgendwie war das Ende auch vorhersehbar - wenngleich die wahren Zusammenhänge natürlich nicht offenkundig waren.
Leider muss man sich manchmal fragen, was der Autor sich denkt. Wenn er z.B. seinem Protagonisten die Worte: "Es geht nicht um Gerechtigkeit" in den Mund legt und in Wirklichkeit meint, es ginge nicht um Rache. Letzteres ist die Basis unseres modernen Verständnisses des Strafrechts, aber gerade dann ist die richtige Wortwahl entscheidend. Denn natürlich geht es um Gerechtigkeit, die hat bloß nichts mit Rache zu tun.
An sich ein rasanter und mitreißender Thriller, aber irgendwie war das Ende auch vorhersehbar - wenngleich die wahren Zusammenhänge natürlich nicht offenkundig waren.
Leider muss man sich manchmal fragen, was der Autor sich denkt. Wenn er z.B. seinem Protagonisten die Worte: "Es geht nicht um Gerechtigkeit" in den Mund legt und in Wirklichkeit meint, es ginge nicht um Rache. Letzteres ist die Basis unseres modernen Verständnisses des Strafrechts, aber gerade dann ist die richtige Wortwahl entscheidend. Denn natürlich geht es um Gerechtigkeit, die hat bloß nichts mit Rache zu tun.
June 30, 2014
Beschreibung:
An einem Sonntag morgen wird der Kommissar Jan Tommen durch das Klingeln an seiner Haustüre geweckt. Der festen Überzeugung erst Samstag zu haben, wird er damit konfrontiert, dass er der Hauptverdächtige in einem brutalen Mordfall ist. Nicht nur sein Auto wurde am Tatort gesehen, sondern auch seine Fingerabdrücke und DNA am Opfer gefunden. Jan hat einen Filmriss von 36 Stunden. Er ist fest davon überzeugt, den Richter nicht ermordet zu haben - seine Kollegen allerdings glauben ihm nicht. Und so flieht er kurzer Hand und stellt ein eigenes Ermittlerteam zusammen. Doch genau darauf hat der eigentliche Mörder nur gewartet.
Meine Meinung:
Das Cover finde ich recht ansprechend. Es ist zwar nichts besonderes, lässt den Leser aber direkt an etwas düsteres und geheimnisvolles denken. Der Titel tut sein übriges.
Der Schreibstil war sehr flüssig und die Sätze sehr präzise geschrieben. Schon nach wenigen Seiten war ich im Geschehen und habe mit Jan Tommen gelitten und ermittelt. Denn der Prolog hatte es schon wirklich in sich. Ich hatte das Gefühl, den Mord live mitzuerleben. Gänsehaut pur.
Die verschiedenen Charaktere haben mir ausgesprochen gut gefallen. Nicht nur das Ermittlerteam um Jan wurde gut herausgearbeitet, sondern auch die Kommissare haben ihren Teil beigetragen.
Aber zum Ermittlerteam: Da hat der Autor wirklich ein gutes 4er Team zusammengestellt, welches sich super ergänzt. Jan, der erfolgreiche Kommissar; Chandu, welcher Kontakte zu Leuten hat, die man eigentlich nicht kennen möchte und weiß, wie man an Informationen im Untergrund kommt; Zoe, die exzentrische Forensikerin, die eine direkte Verbindung in die Polizeizentrale hat und Max, der Hacker, welcher alle übrigen Informationen besorgt. Ist mir sehr positiv aufgefallen.
Vor allem Zoe hat mit ihrer offenen Art und ihrer Schlagfertigkeit für den ein oder anderen Lacher gesorgt.
Der Autor hat es geschafft, dass ich am Ende total überrascht war. Die Fährten waren sehr gut gelegt und vor allem überzeugend.
Fazit:
Ein wirklich gelungener Krimi. Das Ermittlerteam hat Lust auf mehr gemacht. Kann ich nur empfehlen.
An einem Sonntag morgen wird der Kommissar Jan Tommen durch das Klingeln an seiner Haustüre geweckt. Der festen Überzeugung erst Samstag zu haben, wird er damit konfrontiert, dass er der Hauptverdächtige in einem brutalen Mordfall ist. Nicht nur sein Auto wurde am Tatort gesehen, sondern auch seine Fingerabdrücke und DNA am Opfer gefunden. Jan hat einen Filmriss von 36 Stunden. Er ist fest davon überzeugt, den Richter nicht ermordet zu haben - seine Kollegen allerdings glauben ihm nicht. Und so flieht er kurzer Hand und stellt ein eigenes Ermittlerteam zusammen. Doch genau darauf hat der eigentliche Mörder nur gewartet.
Meine Meinung:
Das Cover finde ich recht ansprechend. Es ist zwar nichts besonderes, lässt den Leser aber direkt an etwas düsteres und geheimnisvolles denken. Der Titel tut sein übriges.
Der Schreibstil war sehr flüssig und die Sätze sehr präzise geschrieben. Schon nach wenigen Seiten war ich im Geschehen und habe mit Jan Tommen gelitten und ermittelt. Denn der Prolog hatte es schon wirklich in sich. Ich hatte das Gefühl, den Mord live mitzuerleben. Gänsehaut pur.
Die verschiedenen Charaktere haben mir ausgesprochen gut gefallen. Nicht nur das Ermittlerteam um Jan wurde gut herausgearbeitet, sondern auch die Kommissare haben ihren Teil beigetragen.
Aber zum Ermittlerteam: Da hat der Autor wirklich ein gutes 4er Team zusammengestellt, welches sich super ergänzt. Jan, der erfolgreiche Kommissar; Chandu, welcher Kontakte zu Leuten hat, die man eigentlich nicht kennen möchte und weiß, wie man an Informationen im Untergrund kommt; Zoe, die exzentrische Forensikerin, die eine direkte Verbindung in die Polizeizentrale hat und Max, der Hacker, welcher alle übrigen Informationen besorgt. Ist mir sehr positiv aufgefallen.
Vor allem Zoe hat mit ihrer offenen Art und ihrer Schlagfertigkeit für den ein oder anderen Lacher gesorgt.
Der Autor hat es geschafft, dass ich am Ende total überrascht war. Die Fährten waren sehr gut gelegt und vor allem überzeugend.
Fazit:
Ein wirklich gelungener Krimi. Das Ermittlerteam hat Lust auf mehr gemacht. Kann ich nur empfehlen.
January 13, 2015
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I chose this book solely because the setting is Berlin, one of my favourite cities (and I really like to read about it as well). Not too much Berlin in this book though...
When Jan wakes up with a hangover, he doesn't expect the police to storm into his room. He - a police officer himself - can't remember what he's done the last 36 hours, and they arrest him for the murder of a respected judge. With his memory gone, it's hard to proof he's innocent...
An enjoyable read. I almost always like German crime novels, and this is no exception. There's a lot of running around so if that's something you like, you'll probably like this too. One thing that made the whole plot a bit more realistically is that the main character is a cop (as opposed to all people who've no experience whatsoever fighting crime/policing but know how not to get caught). His friends however are made of cardboard stitched together with a lot of clichés. I mean, the techguy/hacker who doesn't leave his house and doesn't seem to know how to use a bath/shower? I've read that too many times before.
The translation, for as far as I can tell (I've only read the English version), seems quite good, and is very readable. The story was okay too, though the thought keeps nagging at me that I've read a book with a very similar story before. I just can't remember which book.
Original Title: Bis alle Schuld beglichen
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I chose this book solely because the setting is Berlin, one of my favourite cities (and I really like to read about it as well). Not too much Berlin in this book though...
When Jan wakes up with a hangover, he doesn't expect the police to storm into his room. He - a police officer himself - can't remember what he's done the last 36 hours, and they arrest him for the murder of a respected judge. With his memory gone, it's hard to proof he's innocent...
An enjoyable read. I almost always like German crime novels, and this is no exception. There's a lot of running around so if that's something you like, you'll probably like this too. One thing that made the whole plot a bit more realistically is that the main character is a cop (as opposed to all people who've no experience whatsoever fighting crime/policing but know how not to get caught). His friends however are made of cardboard stitched together with a lot of clichés. I mean, the techguy/hacker who doesn't leave his house and doesn't seem to know how to use a bath/shower? I've read that too many times before.
The translation, for as far as I can tell (I've only read the English version), seems quite good, and is very readable. The story was okay too, though the thought keeps nagging at me that I've read a book with a very similar story before. I just can't remember which book.
Original Title: Bis alle Schuld beglichen
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 14, 2016
Zwar mit ein paar Schwächen, aber dennoch ein packend und spannend geschriebener Thriller, den man irgendwie nicht aus der Hand legen kann.
08/10 Punkte
http://sunsys-blog.blogspot.de/2016/0...
08/10 Punkte
http://sunsys-blog.blogspot.de/2016/0...
August 25, 2019
After an alcohol-fuelled weekend, Berlin detective Jan Tommen is rudely awakened to find himself the prime suspect in the murder of a judge. With hard evidence piling up, the case against him seems open and shut. Traces of ecstasy Jan's pretty sure he didn't take voluntarily in his bloodstream and no memory of what happened lead him to believe that he's being framed - and instead of letting himself be arrested and taken to jail for a crime he didn't commit, Jan makes a run for it. With the help of a few friends, he begins the hunt for the real killer in order to clear his name.
Very promising series opener. The mystery kept me on my toes right until the end - definitely didn't see that twist coming.
Very promising series opener. The mystery kept me on my toes right until the end - definitely didn't see that twist coming.
April 15, 2017
I got this book as a present from Audible for my new membership. Even tho I am very picky with Thrilers/Krimi, I figured since it is in German at the least I will practice the language and at the most I will enjoy the story.
The speaker was very good and the story was well read. However, by chapter 3 of 20 I already had a very strong feeling who the murder was. And I was right. There was no aha moment or any big surprises. Of course, that makes the story less charming.
If I would have the choice to buy the book and read it again - I would not do it.
The speaker was very good and the story was well read. However, by chapter 3 of 20 I already had a very strong feeling who the murder was. And I was right. There was no aha moment or any big surprises. Of course, that makes the story less charming.
If I would have the choice to buy the book and read it again - I would not do it.
February 21, 2021
Dopo un inizio d'impatto , il romanzo subisce una frenata per poi riprendersi alla fine.
December 9, 2014
Translated from the original German, UNTIL THE DEBT IS PAID is a combination police procedural and energiser bunny styled action thriller which starts out running when Detective Jan Tommen wakes up beside his beloved girlfriend one morning to find himself as the chief suspect in a vicious murder. Unfortunately the killing occurred during a time period that he has no recollection of, and the evidence linking him to the crime scene is as strong as his alleged motive. Escaping from his own police station, he goes on the run with the support of a good friend, a medical examiner, and a reclusive computer expert. Everything the well-equipped fugitive needs to conduct their own investigation.
Because of his band of supporters, Tommen bounces a bit between his lone wolf character, and somebody that has to rely heavily on the kindness of friends. He's also a man who can absorb a lot of physical and emotional damage in the pursuit of the truth. There's a good cast of baddies and, just for a slight change, there's an unsupportive police colleague (and Tommen's preferred suspect) rather than superior.
Lots of pace, lots of action, and a strong story arc with a twist at the end, the interactions between Tommen and his supporters are the real highlight in this book. Less a character study though, this is about building relationships between an ensemble cast, whilst also ensuring that Tommen remains front and centre of the investigation, and on the run. The individual eccentricities of the others is, in some ways expected, yet believable and engaging and the interactions between them often dryly funny. The twist is well delivered, and reasonably unexpected. The only minor quibble is that sometimes the dialogue seems a little formal, stylised if you like. But that's a very minor point as UNTIL THE DEBT IS PAID is an entertaining thriller with a all-round good guy done bad central protagonist.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
Because of his band of supporters, Tommen bounces a bit between his lone wolf character, and somebody that has to rely heavily on the kindness of friends. He's also a man who can absorb a lot of physical and emotional damage in the pursuit of the truth. There's a good cast of baddies and, just for a slight change, there's an unsupportive police colleague (and Tommen's preferred suspect) rather than superior.
Lots of pace, lots of action, and a strong story arc with a twist at the end, the interactions between Tommen and his supporters are the real highlight in this book. Less a character study though, this is about building relationships between an ensemble cast, whilst also ensuring that Tommen remains front and centre of the investigation, and on the run. The individual eccentricities of the others is, in some ways expected, yet believable and engaging and the interactions between them often dryly funny. The twist is well delivered, and reasonably unexpected. The only minor quibble is that sometimes the dialogue seems a little formal, stylised if you like. But that's a very minor point as UNTIL THE DEBT IS PAID is an entertaining thriller with a all-round good guy done bad central protagonist.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
November 17, 2019
Mein erster Krimi seit Ewigkeiten und mein erstes Buch, das ich auf Deutsch lese seit noch länger. Ich weiß nicht, ob ich einfach nur die englische Sprache gewohnt bin und mir das Buch deshalb so „hakelig“ vorkam ... aber alleine, dass der Autor „als wie“ schreibt macht mich wahnsinnig. Welches Lektorat lässt das denn durchgehen? Sprachlich jedenfalls nichts besonderes.
Zur Story: Ich wusste schon nach ein paar Seiten, wer für die Morde verantwortlich ist. Ich habe nicht direkt ein Motiv erkannt, aber das kam dann mit der Zeit. Insofern war die Auflösung für mich alles andere als eine Überraschung und ich war jedes Mal genervt, wenn die Verdächtigen sich geändert haben, weil ja klar war, dass es nicht richtig ist. Die Charaktere sind nicht sehr dreidimensional, einzig Jan war etwas besser geformt als die anderen. Die weiteren Protagonisten sind eher Klischees. Die Beschreibung von Max, dem Hacker, nehme ich ein wenig persönlich. Warum müssen die Computernerds immer gammelig sein, irgendwie weird und sozial nicht sehr begabt? In seiner Wohnung stinkt es, er selbst müffelt und überall stapeln sich Pizzakartons. Zoe ist dann die toughe Rechtsmedizinerin, die einfach zu „cool“ ist, ständig raucht und flucht und sO aNdErS iSt AlS dIE aNdErEn FrAuEn. Bei Chandu bin ich mir noch nicht sicher. Er sollte etwas mehr Hintergrund erhalten, das ist mit klar, aber irgendwie wirkt seine Geschichte angefangen und nicht zuende gebracht. Vielleicht wird im zweiten Teil der Reihe ja noch mehr aus ihm gemacht.
Alles in allem eine kurzweilige Unterhaltung, wenn man sich nicht an eher flachen Charakteren stört. Das Sonderermittlungsteam rund um Jan hat aber Potential, ich hoffe für alle LeserInnen, dass das auch ausgeschöpft wird. Ein bisschen CIA- Charme, aber i Berlin.
Zur Story: Ich wusste schon nach ein paar Seiten, wer für die Morde verantwortlich ist. Ich habe nicht direkt ein Motiv erkannt, aber das kam dann mit der Zeit. Insofern war die Auflösung für mich alles andere als eine Überraschung und ich war jedes Mal genervt, wenn die Verdächtigen sich geändert haben, weil ja klar war, dass es nicht richtig ist. Die Charaktere sind nicht sehr dreidimensional, einzig Jan war etwas besser geformt als die anderen. Die weiteren Protagonisten sind eher Klischees. Die Beschreibung von Max, dem Hacker, nehme ich ein wenig persönlich. Warum müssen die Computernerds immer gammelig sein, irgendwie weird und sozial nicht sehr begabt? In seiner Wohnung stinkt es, er selbst müffelt und überall stapeln sich Pizzakartons. Zoe ist dann die toughe Rechtsmedizinerin, die einfach zu „cool“ ist, ständig raucht und flucht und sO aNdErS iSt AlS dIE aNdErEn FrAuEn. Bei Chandu bin ich mir noch nicht sicher. Er sollte etwas mehr Hintergrund erhalten, das ist mit klar, aber irgendwie wirkt seine Geschichte angefangen und nicht zuende gebracht. Vielleicht wird im zweiten Teil der Reihe ja noch mehr aus ihm gemacht.
Alles in allem eine kurzweilige Unterhaltung, wenn man sich nicht an eher flachen Charakteren stört. Das Sonderermittlungsteam rund um Jan hat aber Potential, ich hoffe für alle LeserInnen, dass das auch ausgeschöpft wird. Ein bisschen CIA- Charme, aber i Berlin.
February 14, 2017
Not as good as it should have been, June 18, 2016
This review is from: Until the Debt Is Paid (Jan Tommen Investigation Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I read this novel through to the end because the writing and the mystery kept my interest. Even so there are some rough spots in the writing. The following scene occurs after they suspect that Patrick drugged Jan and is the killer. They find a large bag full of various drugs in Patrick's apartment:
“I don’t believe he’s taking drugs,” Jan said.
“Why not?” Chandu said.
“So why have all that stuff in his bathroom?” Zoe added.
“If Patrick was on ecstasy, I would’ve noticed somehow. To me it looks more like he busted some dealer.”
“And kept the stuff for himself?” Chandu asked. “But why?” Why he asks? A very poorly written scene and there are others.
The following comments reveal some plot details:
The girlfriend, Betty, is the obvious suspect so far as opportunity is concerned, but then her character dies. The retired priest is too good to be true, he is involved somehow, may be the killer. Patrick is too bad to be true, too rigid, too unimaginative (to be the killer). I wrote these comments as I read the novel. It did occur to me that no hard forensic evidence identified Betty's body, but I dismissed the idea that the author would use such a ploy. I found the solution to the case to be unsatisfying. I particularly disliked what became an obvious stereotype of the priest.
This review is from: Until the Debt Is Paid (Jan Tommen Investigation Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I read this novel through to the end because the writing and the mystery kept my interest. Even so there are some rough spots in the writing. The following scene occurs after they suspect that Patrick drugged Jan and is the killer. They find a large bag full of various drugs in Patrick's apartment:
“I don’t believe he’s taking drugs,” Jan said.
“Why not?” Chandu said.
“So why have all that stuff in his bathroom?” Zoe added.
“If Patrick was on ecstasy, I would’ve noticed somehow. To me it looks more like he busted some dealer.”
“And kept the stuff for himself?” Chandu asked. “But why?” Why he asks? A very poorly written scene and there are others.
The following comments reveal some plot details:
The girlfriend, Betty, is the obvious suspect so far as opportunity is concerned, but then her character dies. The retired priest is too good to be true, he is involved somehow, may be the killer. Patrick is too bad to be true, too rigid, too unimaginative (to be the killer). I wrote these comments as I read the novel. It did occur to me that no hard forensic evidence identified Betty's body, but I dismissed the idea that the author would use such a ploy. I found the solution to the case to be unsatisfying. I particularly disliked what became an obvious stereotype of the priest.
September 25, 2014
German Audiobook--detective story--Jan Tommen is in the murder commission and is suspected of murdering a judge, since his fingerprints were left all over the scene (which would be stupid of a detective). They arrest him, but he manages to escape and go into hiding with the help of a couple friends, who then try to help him find out who really committed the murder--which turns into more than one as the story goes along. You really don't know who it is until the very end--quite a few suspects...a good read. I would read more of his books!
Kommissar Jan Tommen kann sich an nicht mehr erinnern, aber ein Richter, mit dem er auf schlechtem Fuß stand, ist ermordet worden, und sein Blut und seine DNA wurden am Tatort gefunden. Die Kollegen sind überzeugt, dass Tommen es war. So weit die Ausgangslage, und sie ist recht klassisch: Der Detektiv wird selber zum Verdächtigen und muss auf eigene Faust ermitteln, während er auf der Flucht ist. Das verspricht Spannung, Tempo und unerwartete Wendungen. Auch das Ende gefällt mir – ein sehr angenehmes Lesevergnügen.
Kommissar Jan Tommen kann sich an nicht mehr erinnern, aber ein Richter, mit dem er auf schlechtem Fuß stand, ist ermordet worden, und sein Blut und seine DNA wurden am Tatort gefunden. Die Kollegen sind überzeugt, dass Tommen es war. So weit die Ausgangslage, und sie ist recht klassisch: Der Detektiv wird selber zum Verdächtigen und muss auf eigene Faust ermitteln, während er auf der Flucht ist. Das verspricht Spannung, Tempo und unerwartete Wendungen. Auch das Ende gefällt mir – ein sehr angenehmes Lesevergnügen.
May 10, 2017
Alexander Hartung - Bis alle Schuld beglichen
eBook - 289 Seiten
Holla, die Waldfee - also der Klappentext hat mich ja schon massiv angesprochen, aber mit sowas hab ich nicht gerechnet.
Keine lange Rede am Anfang, keine Einführung, keine Gnade - man wird direkt ins kalte Wasser geklatscht.
Von der ersten Seite an zieht sich eine atemberaubende Spannung durch das ganze Buch.
Man lebt mit dem Protagnisten mit, man leidet mit ihm, man hofft mit ihm, man verdächtigt mit ihm.
Die Hintergründe der Gräueltaten werden dem Leser gnädigerweise nur langsam und häppchenweise serviert.
Das ganze Ausmaß der Situation zeigt sich erst auf den letzten ca. 50 Seiten.
Wer dort dann letztendlich als Täter offenbart wird, hat mir fast die Sprache verschlagen und dem ganzen nochmal eine Extranote an Grausamkeit vermittelt.
Ich bin absolut geflasht von solch einem spannenden Thriller - da gibt's nur 5 Sterne - und Band 2 um Jan Tommen liegt schon bereit :)
eBook - 289 Seiten
Holla, die Waldfee - also der Klappentext hat mich ja schon massiv angesprochen, aber mit sowas hab ich nicht gerechnet.
Keine lange Rede am Anfang, keine Einführung, keine Gnade - man wird direkt ins kalte Wasser geklatscht.
Von der ersten Seite an zieht sich eine atemberaubende Spannung durch das ganze Buch.
Man lebt mit dem Protagnisten mit, man leidet mit ihm, man hofft mit ihm, man verdächtigt mit ihm.
Die Hintergründe der Gräueltaten werden dem Leser gnädigerweise nur langsam und häppchenweise serviert.
Das ganze Ausmaß der Situation zeigt sich erst auf den letzten ca. 50 Seiten.
Wer dort dann letztendlich als Täter offenbart wird, hat mir fast die Sprache verschlagen und dem ganzen nochmal eine Extranote an Grausamkeit vermittelt.
Ich bin absolut geflasht von solch einem spannenden Thriller - da gibt's nur 5 Sterne - und Band 2 um Jan Tommen liegt schon bereit :)
March 14, 2015
I gave this book a 4.5/5 Stars
I didn't have high expectations going into this book... I got this book for free off of Goodread's Giveaways but boy was I wrong. This book was amazing. It is about a homocide detective becoming the main suspect of a murder... But Jan, the detective, knows he didn't kill anyone, so he runs. While reading the first 70% of the book I thought I knew who the real killer was from the start, I usually am good at that type of thing, but I was way off. Talk about plot twist. Anyway let's talk about the actual book. The writing was astonishing and the character development amazing. The only problem I had with this book was that the ending seemed to wrap up too nicely... That's why I didn't give it 5 stars. But other than that I thought this book was really good and would recommend it to anyone who likes murder mysteries.
I didn't have high expectations going into this book... I got this book for free off of Goodread's Giveaways but boy was I wrong. This book was amazing. It is about a homocide detective becoming the main suspect of a murder... But Jan, the detective, knows he didn't kill anyone, so he runs. While reading the first 70% of the book I thought I knew who the real killer was from the start, I usually am good at that type of thing, but I was way off. Talk about plot twist. Anyway let's talk about the actual book. The writing was astonishing and the character development amazing. The only problem I had with this book was that the ending seemed to wrap up too nicely... That's why I didn't give it 5 stars. But other than that I thought this book was really good and would recommend it to anyone who likes murder mysteries.
November 14, 2019
The pace of this book doesn't disappoint and neither does the twisty plot. The intrigue drew me in from very early on with the seemingly random murders and I felt right behind the on-the-run suspect. The hero enlists the help from a a bunch of odd-balls that keep the investigation thundering along; as the police in a major German city are too inept to do it effectively themselves. Really? Although the activity is endless it sometimes felt like it didn't further the plot, so much of it turns into dead-ends. The mystery I thought the book promised to be turned into an action adventure and not very plausible. I couldn't describe this as a page-turner but it entertained me, especially as the core of the plot is strong. I don't believe the reviewers that claim the identity of the murderer was evident; it was well hidden. Now for book two.
November 28, 2014
**i received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley**
I absolutely loved this book!! It reminded me of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo series, which is one of the best series I've ever read. It was a great story line, intriguing characters, but also written incredibly well! I do agree with others that the translation was lacking in parts, but it did not distract in any way from me enjoying the book! Highly recommend this book!!
Reading_therapy@instagram.com
I absolutely loved this book!! It reminded me of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo series, which is one of the best series I've ever read. It was a great story line, intriguing characters, but also written incredibly well! I do agree with others that the translation was lacking in parts, but it did not distract in any way from me enjoying the book! Highly recommend this book!!
Reading_therapy@instagram.com
March 18, 2020
Die Berliner Jan Tommen Serie wurde mir von einer Freundin empfohlen, aber ich muss sagen, ich war arg enttaeuscht. Die Charakter waren alle sehr eindimensional und klischeehaftig (die scharfe Blondine als Rechtsmedizinerin, der ungepflegte aber geniale Computerhacker, der Schwarzafrikaner Krimenelle/bester Freund, der cholerische Chef bei der Kripo ) Ich fand den ganzen Roman leider ziemlich schwach und unueberzeugend als Krimi.
December 5, 2014
Thanks Goodreads for the copy of Until the Debt is Paid. I really enjoyed this murder mystery. There were plenty of twists and turns so that I could not figure out who did it until it was revealed. The writing was very well done also. The story seemed believable, not contrived. Glad this book was translated to English for a whole new audience.
January 4, 2015
I won this novel in the First Read's giveaway. I was hesitant to try Anderson as an author but I was so interested in the plot that I entered and was excited to give it a try. I immediately fell in love with the character Jan and his spirited personality, I could barely put the novel down. Anderson is an expert suspense writer and I look forward to reading more from him. Awesome novel!
December 22, 2014
Won this as a First Read from Goodreads. The premise is cop set up for murder, which has been done a million times. But, it kept my interest and I especially enjoyed the motley crew of supporting characters and the Berlin setting.
November 16, 2014
One of the best books I've read.
November 24, 2014
A fast and entertaining thriller set in Berlin with a clever plot and a surprising murder at the end.
December 10, 2014
Wonderful book! Extremely well-written and engaging. I could not put it down!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews