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Joe Court #3
The Boys in the Church
They made their choice years ago. They buried the truth… amongst other things. But evil only begets evil. The monster they created is here, and he’s on the hunt…
Detective Mary Joe Court’s home is her sanctuary. It’s the one place she can let her guard down and be herself. And her home has one No murder allowed. That means no pictures from murder scenes, no interview notes, no files, no death in her home. For years, that rule has worked out well.
But now death is knocking on her door.
A serial killer the local news has dubbed the Apostate has already taken twelve young people. To stop him, Joe must dig deep into her town’s sordid and forgotten past. But even that might not be enough. Because the Apostate intends to uncover the truth and bury everyone who hurt him.
And Joe stands right in his way.
The Boys in the Church is the third thrilling novel in New York Times’ bestselling author Chris Culver’s Joe Court series. If you like James Patterson, David Baldacci, or Karin Slaughter, you’ll love this series.
Check it out today!
Detective Mary Joe Court’s home is her sanctuary. It’s the one place she can let her guard down and be herself. And her home has one No murder allowed. That means no pictures from murder scenes, no interview notes, no files, no death in her home. For years, that rule has worked out well.
But now death is knocking on her door.
A serial killer the local news has dubbed the Apostate has already taken twelve young people. To stop him, Joe must dig deep into her town’s sordid and forgotten past. But even that might not be enough. Because the Apostate intends to uncover the truth and bury everyone who hurt him.
And Joe stands right in his way.
The Boys in the Church is the third thrilling novel in New York Times’ bestselling author Chris Culver’s Joe Court series. If you like James Patterson, David Baldacci, or Karin Slaughter, you’ll love this series.
Check it out today!
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2019
1393 people are currently reading
367 people want to read
About the author
Chris Culver
38 books237 followersChris Culver is the New York Times bestselling author of the Ash Rashid series of mysteries. After graduate school, Chris taught courses in ethics and comparative religion at a small liberal arts university in southern Arkansas. While there and when he really should have been grading exams, he wrote The Abbey, which spent sixteen weeks on the New York Times bestseller's list and introduced the world to Detective Ash Rashid.
Chris has been a storyteller since he was a kid, but he decided to write crime fiction after picking up a dog-eared, coffee-stained paperback copy of Mickey Spillane's I, the Jury in a library book sale. Many years later, his wife, despite considerable effort, still can't stop him from bringing more orphan books home. The two of them, along with a labrador retriever named Roy, reside near St. Louis where Chris is hard at work on his next novel.
Chris has been a storyteller since he was a kid, but he decided to write crime fiction after picking up a dog-eared, coffee-stained paperback copy of Mickey Spillane's I, the Jury in a library book sale. Many years later, his wife, despite considerable effort, still can't stop him from bringing more orphan books home. The two of them, along with a labrador retriever named Roy, reside near St. Louis where Chris is hard at work on his next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 13, 2024
Ancient police secrets and cover-ups are at the root of this Detective Mary Joe Court tale, the third of the series. A little Missouri town, St. Augustine, outside of St. Louis is again our bailiwick, appointed Sherriff George Delgado is still an incompetent ass, and Mary Joe is his favorite whipping boy. But kids are missing - all high school seniors and several dating couples from small towns all around have disappeared over the last several months. Joe isn't willing to write those newly disappeared from St. Augustine off as run-aways. Because an election is coming up Delgado doesn't object to the involvement of the FBI but he is of the opinion that the kids will come home when their recently withdrawn savings accounts run out - after he gets a little positive pre-election press. But then Joe finds some of the boys who are missing. In the church. And all bets are off.
REVIEWED on April 13, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes and Noble and BookBub.
REVIEWED on April 13, 2024, at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes and Noble and BookBub.
April 11, 2019
This one kept me turning pages wanting to know what happened. Mary Joe was a detective. When the Apostate begins killing people in her town she is determined to find him and bring him to justice. Unfortunately there are a lot of speed bumps along the way.
Love the main character. She's tough but vulnerable as well, extremely dedicated, and struggling to the point she sometimes had to talk to a therapist. It takes all of her skills to bring down the latest serial killer.
Love the main character. She's tough but vulnerable as well, extremely dedicated, and struggling to the point she sometimes had to talk to a therapist. It takes all of her skills to bring down the latest serial killer.
April 21, 2020
I just love this series of novels from Chris Culver. I've already downloaded The Man in the Meth Lab so I can forge ahead. Highly recommended if you love a good female hero with a twisty past and a good heart. Action packed and well written, Chris Culver gets my highest praises!
June 14, 2019
I have read all of Chris Culver's Ash Rashid novels and enjoyed all of them. Apparently, there are two other books in the Joe Court series. This could be read as a stand alone book. I have to say at first I was disconcerted by the spelling of the lead character, Joe Court. I assumed it was a male but "Joe" is a woman. Early on in the novel, Joe mentions something about NOT being called "Mary Joe" so I am guessing perhaps in the two earlier books there is a reason for either the spelling of Joe or NOT being called Mary Joe. The premise of the book is a serial killer who is obviously demented by his method of killing. Young teenage couples are his choice victims. He has a "partner" Helen. The end result of the crime and it being solved by Joe Court is very interesting. The book is a fast read and I see there is another in the series to come out in July and I look forward to reading it as well.
If there is one thing I am not too fond of, is that in both the Ash Rashid series and now this Joe Court series, an undercurrent of alcoholism that both Ash and now Joe are in denial. I realize police have stress that is probably second to none but not all have to have a drinking problem.
If there is one thing I am not too fond of, is that in both the Ash Rashid series and now this Joe Court series, an undercurrent of alcoholism that both Ash and now Joe are in denial. I realize police have stress that is probably second to none but not all have to have a drinking problem.
June 3, 2025
Gripping, Emotional, and Unforgettable
The Boys in the Church by Chris Culver is a haunting and powerful novel that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Known for his compelling crime fiction, Culver delivers a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story that goes far beyond the typical thriller.
From the very beginning, the characters pulled me in with their complexity and raw vulnerability. Culver handles incredibly difficult subject matter with sensitivity and grace, never sensationalizing the trauma but instead shining a light on the long-lasting effects of abuse and the difficult search for justice and healing.
The writing is sharp, the pacing is tight, and the atmosphere is intense without ever feeling overdone. What really stood out to me was the emotional depth—this isn’t just a story about a crime, it’s about survival, resilience, and the truths that people carry for years in silence.
If you’re looking for a suspenseful read that also tackles serious issues with heart and humanity, I highly recommend The Boys in the Church. Chris Culver has crafted something truly unforgettable.
The Boys in the Church by Chris Culver is a haunting and powerful novel that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Known for his compelling crime fiction, Culver delivers a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story that goes far beyond the typical thriller.
From the very beginning, the characters pulled me in with their complexity and raw vulnerability. Culver handles incredibly difficult subject matter with sensitivity and grace, never sensationalizing the trauma but instead shining a light on the long-lasting effects of abuse and the difficult search for justice and healing.
The writing is sharp, the pacing is tight, and the atmosphere is intense without ever feeling overdone. What really stood out to me was the emotional depth—this isn’t just a story about a crime, it’s about survival, resilience, and the truths that people carry for years in silence.
If you’re looking for a suspenseful read that also tackles serious issues with heart and humanity, I highly recommend The Boys in the Church. Chris Culver has crafted something truly unforgettable.
January 25, 2022
I accidentally read this one in the Joe Court series first (this was before I realized it was a series), and WOW, I actually think it's a great place to start. :) It packed a bunch of surprises and did not let me put the book down until I had finally read through to the end. When I went back to read books 1 & 2, I didn't feel slighted by having known what happens in Book 3.
I'm nearly to the end of the full series and am trying to pace myself b/c I love this series so much. It's like that last square of chocolate that you just want to last!
Thanks to Chris for writing books that are so engaging. It feels good to read voraciously again.
I'm nearly to the end of the full series and am trying to pace myself b/c I love this series so much. It's like that last square of chocolate that you just want to last!
Thanks to Chris for writing books that are so engaging. It feels good to read voraciously again.
December 8, 2022
Intensely excellent!
To say this book delves into the grimy side of life is an understatement. It has a dark twisted path with glimmers of light all the while being packed with action, intrigue and serious drama.
The author has done a phenomenal job portraying the MC and giving us slices into both her background and her psyche.
Joe Court may not have had the best or easiest start in life, but she more than makes up for that lack in her brilliant and intuitive assessment of people and situations in her investigations.
This book kept me riveted and on edge at the same time! I definitely recommend this book.
To say this book delves into the grimy side of life is an understatement. It has a dark twisted path with glimmers of light all the while being packed with action, intrigue and serious drama.
The author has done a phenomenal job portraying the MC and giving us slices into both her background and her psyche.
Joe Court may not have had the best or easiest start in life, but she more than makes up for that lack in her brilliant and intuitive assessment of people and situations in her investigations.
This book kept me riveted and on edge at the same time! I definitely recommend this book.
November 15, 2024
Book #3 BOYS IN CHURCH by Chris Culver is terrific. I finished it last night at 1 a.m. Detective Jo Court has a complicated life. Teenagers are disappearing. The St. Augustine, Missouri, police department is investigating. Detective Court pulls everything together in spite of the sheriff’s disdain for her and her efforts. This series is one you’ll want to read straight through. The author develops his characters and keeps you on the edge as to who is kidnapping these kids. So far there are 9 books in this series. Enjoy!!!
November 15, 2024
Best Joe Court mystery so far! Lots of twists and turns I didn't see coming. So why not 5 stars? There's some jarring shifts between an omniscient third-party narrator and first-person narrative from Joe. I don't mind that usually, but give me some kind of indication of the shift. Make it happen on a chapter boundary, or at least have some kind of separator - a #, a row of ***, or something to indicate the shift.
That said, it didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story. I read it in a single day.
That said, it didn't detract from my enjoyment of the story. I read it in a single day.
June 28, 2021
I'm really liking this series. Each book has a main story and one that is carried over into the next book and becomes that books main story. Location is a small town about an hour away from St. Louis. Small town police force and small town politics. A chief who got his job through politics. Need I say more? Mary Joe Court, a sassy, tell it like it is detective, who is not afraid to speak her mind whether it offends people or not.
March 29, 2021
Did not see that coming
As I read the third book in the series it seemed some part was missing, but the last few chapters took all the loose (and some from the first books that I did not realize would be major factors) ends, tied them neatly and then slipped in a twist. Time to read book four.
As I read the third book in the series it seemed some part was missing, but the last few chapters took all the loose (and some from the first books that I did not realize would be major factors) ends, tied them neatly and then slipped in a twist. Time to read book four.
August 31, 2019
What an excellent book!
This was an amazing read as all of Chis Culver's have been. This was well written, a page turner leading to a intricate plot. I have to say Mary Joe Court is the heroine. Highly recommend.
This was an amazing read as all of Chis Culver's have been. This was well written, a page turner leading to a intricate plot. I have to say Mary Joe Court is the heroine. Highly recommend.
November 18, 2020
The Boys in the Church was darker than the first two in the series. The story was thrilling, and I like Joe Court even more than after book 2. This book cracks open the heart of what is wrong with St Augustine. The back story of the town is getting more interesting. I have book 4 ready to read.
January 7, 2021
A GREAT READ
I really liked all the characters in this book. Especially Mary Joe. She’s a great detective with many issues to deal with in her life. Can’t wait to read the next book.
I really liked all the characters in this book. Especially Mary Joe. She’s a great detective with many issues to deal with in her life. Can’t wait to read the next book.
January 12, 2021
Wow..
That was an amazing book!! I am really getting into these Joe Court adventures! There are so many twists and turns.. Just when you think its over...Wham! I loved it. Keep them coming. 🙂
That was an amazing book!! I am really getting into these Joe Court adventures! There are so many twists and turns.. Just when you think its over...Wham! I loved it. Keep them coming. 🙂
June 13, 2024
I didn’t care for this book as much as I liked the first two in the series. I did want to finish it, however, to see how things resolved. It may have been that the villain was just way too much for me, too extreme. I will continue with the series, though.
July 17, 2024
Another great one!
I'm so glad I discovered this series of books about Joe Court. Each one so far has been gripping from the beginning and held to the end. The more I learn about Joe, the more intrigued I am. I continue to look forward to the next book!
I'm so glad I discovered this series of books about Joe Court. Each one so far has been gripping from the beginning and held to the end. The more I learn about Joe, the more intrigued I am. I continue to look forward to the next book!
January 8, 2025
Did not like this storyline
I do not like reading about kids being killed, i almost quit reading but kept on. Now i wish i had not. Also, the crazy people seem to get crazier. It is scary to believe their are real people like that in this world but i know they are.
I do not like reading about kids being killed, i almost quit reading but kept on. Now i wish i had not. Also, the crazy people seem to get crazier. It is scary to believe their are real people like that in this world but i know they are.
January 12, 2026
This so far is the best book of the series! I feel like I’m getting to know Joe more and more with every book. This one focused heavily on her history but more in depth with some definite not what I had in my bingo card moments! I can’t wait to read the next book in her saga!
April 26, 2019
So good
I am really enjoying this series and look forward to trying the Ash books too! Keep them coming Chris! Your new fan!
I am really enjoying this series and look forward to trying the Ash books too! Keep them coming Chris! Your new fan!
July 21, 2019
Good read
This was a well written story that presented the characters in a vivid manner. I look forward to the next book that Chris Culver creates
This was a well written story that presented the characters in a vivid manner. I look forward to the next book that Chris Culver creates
August 23, 2019
Very good
This series is very good. This story was good with some twists and turns but I wasn't happy with the ending. I do enjoy the characters however.
This series is very good. This story was good with some twists and turns but I wasn't happy with the ending. I do enjoy the characters however.
September 7, 2019
The Boys in the Church
OMG. This was a great thriller. I could not put this book down . This is a must read thriller. I highly recommend this book and series.
OMG. This was a great thriller. I could not put this book down . This is a must read thriller. I highly recommend this book and series.
October 17, 2019
Brilliantly addictive
One of my favorite series. I am anxiously typing a quick review-I want to read the next book. This is a must read series.
One of my favorite series. I am anxiously typing a quick review-I want to read the next book. This is a must read series.
July 13, 2020
Great
And the story line hanging together well,Mary Joe ,fleshing out and doing her job.Nice to have some continuation but not to much repetition.
And the story line hanging together well,Mary Joe ,fleshing out and doing her job.Nice to have some continuation but not to much repetition.
March 31, 2022
This is a must read series! Each book is better than the last. Hooked from beginning to end.
June 10, 2022
Love her!
I live Joe! What a great character! Can't wait to read the next one!
She is an inspiration to all broken women!
I live Joe! What a great character! Can't wait to read the next one!
She is an inspiration to all broken women!
December 18, 2022
Great Read
Suspenseful
Energetic
Twists and turns on every page
Unbelievable Ending! I'm still in shock!
What's Next? I can't wait to read #4
Suspenseful
Energetic
Twists and turns on every page
Unbelievable Ending! I'm still in shock!
What's Next? I can't wait to read #4
November 15, 2023
Detective Joe has a no-nonsense approach to life. She goes where the evidence and her intuition lead her. This is an excellent story that I couldn't put it down.
Read
May 31, 2024Very good!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews