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Children of Karma #3
Everyone Dies
“An obsession with revenge might not be great for your mental health, but at least it’s calorie-free.”
Private detective David Braddock is holed-up on the Thai island of Samui plotting the death of Grigory Polzin, the Russian oligarch who ordered the killing of his daughter. Embittered and descending rapidly into alcoholism, the Englishman must find a way to exact his retribution before he completely falls apart.
Fate, however, has one final lesson for David Braddock: the dead don’t always stay dead.
'Everyone Dies' is the final book in John Dolan’s 'Karma’s Children' trilogy.
Private detective David Braddock is holed-up on the Thai island of Samui plotting the death of Grigory Polzin, the Russian oligarch who ordered the killing of his daughter. Embittered and descending rapidly into alcoholism, the Englishman must find a way to exact his retribution before he completely falls apart.
Fate, however, has one final lesson for David Braddock: the dead don’t always stay dead.
'Everyone Dies' is the final book in John Dolan’s 'Karma’s Children' trilogy.
Paperback
First published June 17, 2019
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6 people want to read
About the author
John Dolan
18 books259 followers"Makes a living by travelling, talking a lot and sometimes writing stuff down. Galericulate author, polymath and occasional smarty-pants."
John Dolan hails from a small town in the North-East of England. Before turning to writing, his career encompassed law and finance. He has run businesses in Europe, South and Central America, Africa and Asia. He and his wife Fiona currently divide their time between Thailand and the UK.
John is the author of the Time, Blood and Karma; Children of Karma; and Crimes of Inhumanity series, as well as several standalone novels.
John Dolan hails from a small town in the North-East of England. Before turning to writing, his career encompassed law and finance. He has run businesses in Europe, South and Central America, Africa and Asia. He and his wife Fiona currently divide their time between Thailand and the UK.
John is the author of the Time, Blood and Karma; Children of Karma; and Crimes of Inhumanity series, as well as several standalone novels.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 1, 2019
Never have I read a series that has been so multi-layers and captivating as the one that chronicles the tumultuous life of David Braddock. He is such a fascinating character, a veritable trouble magnet who somehow manages to end right-side up, no matter what kind of quandary he gets himself into. Though he seems to have a propensity for landing in impossible situations—whether it’s due to fate or his own doing—his close-calls don’t seem to temper his cavalier attitude. So much the better for the voyeur, for there’s never a dull moment in the Braddock-sphere.
Author John Dolan is truly a master of suspense. I felt anxious, hopeful, scared, resigned and plain puzzled in turns, while laughing at totally inappropriate times during Braddock’s struggles. The comic relief is a bonus, one the author uses with great effect.
Having now read all seven of Braddock’s adventures to date, I now want to go back and read them all over again so I can fully appreciate the careful and cunning planning that went into this spellbinding series. Bravo, Mr. Dolan! Well done!
Author John Dolan is truly a master of suspense. I felt anxious, hopeful, scared, resigned and plain puzzled in turns, while laughing at totally inappropriate times during Braddock’s struggles. The comic relief is a bonus, one the author uses with great effect.
Having now read all seven of Braddock’s adventures to date, I now want to go back and read them all over again so I can fully appreciate the careful and cunning planning that went into this spellbinding series. Bravo, Mr. Dolan! Well done!
June 25, 2019
“Misery is always uncomfortable around happiness.”
Everyone Dies by John Dolan is the last book in the 'Karma’s Children' Trilogy. This excites me (to get to read it) and also bums me out (there won’t be any new John Dolan books released anytime soon). It’s a mixed bag. I’m elated and sad at the same time. After you read these books, you will understand why.
I’ve loved this series and adore the author’s keen sense on humor, sarcasm and clever use of wordage.
I sure hope this is not the end of David Braddock. Fingers are crossed as I write this! If it is, well I’m not about to tell you in this review. You will have to read for yourself. Enjoy the bumpy ride. I assure you, it’s not a smooth path but that's half the fun. Buckle up! Wear a jacket. And if you are so inclined pour yourself a whisky and light up a Marlboro or two.
Now that I've reached the end of the road I might have to read this book again as I'm not ready to let go...
Everyone Dies by John Dolan is the last book in the 'Karma’s Children' Trilogy. This excites me (to get to read it) and also bums me out (there won’t be any new John Dolan books released anytime soon). It’s a mixed bag. I’m elated and sad at the same time. After you read these books, you will understand why.
I’ve loved this series and adore the author’s keen sense on humor, sarcasm and clever use of wordage.
I sure hope this is not the end of David Braddock. Fingers are crossed as I write this! If it is, well I’m not about to tell you in this review. You will have to read for yourself. Enjoy the bumpy ride. I assure you, it’s not a smooth path but that's half the fun. Buckle up! Wear a jacket. And if you are so inclined pour yourself a whisky and light up a Marlboro or two.
Now that I've reached the end of the road I might have to read this book again as I'm not ready to let go...
July 18, 2019
What a great finale to a tension-filled, original series! I don’t even know which part I enjoyed more, the first one - angst-filled and full of self-destructive tendencies, or the second one - a road to some major transformation.
The final book in the series (which can also be read as a standalone, by the way) picks up where the previous one left off, with David Braddock mourning the loss of his daughter Katie and all but killing himself with excessive alcohol and nicotine intake. However, as soon as his grief transcends into something darker and more sinister, he decides to kill the man responsible for his daughter’s death before his broken heart gives up on him. And this is where quite a few unexpected turns come into play, which kept me on the edge of my seat with every page turned. The seemingly reckless plan, a surprising new ally, an old enemy that could be used if the cards are played right - all this made “Everyone Dies” simply unputdownable.
Without revealing too much of the plot (I’m afraid that I can accidentally give away a few spoilers and ruin the experience for you) let me just say this: if you enjoy dark, gritty, well-written novels with an exotic setting and no less exotic set of characters, you’ll definitely enjoy “Everyone Dies.” The powerful message delivered in the end was also just a perfect conclusion to a great saga. My only complaint is that when I closed the book, I felt like I was saying goodbye to an old friend whom I most likely shall never see again (yes, I got so attached to the characters) but isn’t it amazing that some books can make us feel this way?
I really can’t recommend this series highly enough. I’m already looking forward to what Mr. Dolan writes next.
The final book in the series (which can also be read as a standalone, by the way) picks up where the previous one left off, with David Braddock mourning the loss of his daughter Katie and all but killing himself with excessive alcohol and nicotine intake. However, as soon as his grief transcends into something darker and more sinister, he decides to kill the man responsible for his daughter’s death before his broken heart gives up on him. And this is where quite a few unexpected turns come into play, which kept me on the edge of my seat with every page turned. The seemingly reckless plan, a surprising new ally, an old enemy that could be used if the cards are played right - all this made “Everyone Dies” simply unputdownable.
Without revealing too much of the plot (I’m afraid that I can accidentally give away a few spoilers and ruin the experience for you) let me just say this: if you enjoy dark, gritty, well-written novels with an exotic setting and no less exotic set of characters, you’ll definitely enjoy “Everyone Dies.” The powerful message delivered in the end was also just a perfect conclusion to a great saga. My only complaint is that when I closed the book, I felt like I was saying goodbye to an old friend whom I most likely shall never see again (yes, I got so attached to the characters) but isn’t it amazing that some books can make us feel this way?
I really can’t recommend this series highly enough. I’m already looking forward to what Mr. Dolan writes next.
July 18, 2019
Everyone Dies has all the virtues of other David Braddock thrillers. It has action, surprise and suspense. It has psychological and philosophical depth (mostly Buddhist). There are also interesting, fully developed characters and humor, often somewhat sardonic. This is a book about Karma, and Braddock’s karma throws quite a variety of pitches at him including curve balls (the surprises) and some high hard inside fast balls (read and find out). Braddock is not one to accept his karma docilely. He is sensitive to people and things and thinks, plans and acts decisively. The book is highly entertaining and also provides food for thought on life, living and values. The first person singular can be a difficult voice, but John Dolan is a master. The device, critical to depth of the novel, is virtually unnoticeable in the flow of the narrative. Highly recommended.
July 18, 2019
A fitting end to a fantastic series. It all comes together in this final book with all the suspense, intrigue, synchronicities, humor, wisdom, action & debauchery which have been ever present since book 1.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I'm anxiously awaiting Mr. Dolan's next work. Thanks for providing us with such fantastic books.
It was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I'm anxiously awaiting Mr. Dolan's next work. Thanks for providing us with such fantastic books.
January 22, 2020
A father’s grief sends a man over the edge for revenge in Author Dolan’s third and final book of the Children of Karma series. Private Investigator David Braddock is set to avenge the murder of his daughter, Katie. Russian oligarch, Grigory Polzin, is highly suspected of having her assassinated by a ruthless killer as retribution for the death of his son. As David plots the demise of Polzin, his personal life spirals out of control as he drinks his way to oblivion to mask his mental and escalating physical pains. His office partner Da, and house manager Wayan try and help him, but are weighted down by their own personal dramas.
Karma plays its efficacious hand as David’s plans move forward via a seedy underground network, but will David’s health allow the plan to move forward? Da deals with a tragic death, will she be able to continue working with the agency? Wayan is still mourning her lost love, the assassin suspected of killing Katie–will she ever come to terms with his brutal ways and abandonment?
A surprise reveal provides a karmic twist of events for David and his friends and family, forcing a drastic change in strategy. There are suspenseful turns on every page and the ending is masterful. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and am a huge fan–great characters, witty dialogue, intriguing plots, international suspense, with just a dash of romance. A great read, highly recommended!
Karma plays its efficacious hand as David’s plans move forward via a seedy underground network, but will David’s health allow the plan to move forward? Da deals with a tragic death, will she be able to continue working with the agency? Wayan is still mourning her lost love, the assassin suspected of killing Katie–will she ever come to terms with his brutal ways and abandonment?
A surprise reveal provides a karmic twist of events for David and his friends and family, forcing a drastic change in strategy. There are suspenseful turns on every page and the ending is masterful. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and am a huge fan–great characters, witty dialogue, intriguing plots, international suspense, with just a dash of romance. A great read, highly recommended!
July 22, 2019
In this final volume of the riveting double trilogy ‘Time, Blood and Karma’ and ‘Karma’s Children’ we are back where we started, on Koh Samui, with the series’ addictive central protagonist, David Braddock.
The ex pat, ex husband and PI without a licence of Book 1, accompanied by the usual props– a bottle of Bells and a packet of Marlboros–is central stage, taking stock. He’s added more exs to his list: ex saxophonist, ex therapist and, terribly and tragically, ex father. Around him it seems that everyone dies, the latest and most agonising of losses being that of his daughter Katie, murdered on the orders of her father-in-law, Russian oligarch Grigory Polzin.
It’s a great opening, reminding us of Braddock’s occasional skull-regarding Danish alter ego while also summarising the essential elements of what has gone before (the book can be read as a stand-alone, but what a pity to miss the earlier treats).The subtitle tells us it’s ‘a tale of human mortality,’ and like Hamlet and T.S.Eliot’s Webster, Braddock is much possessed by death. Tiptoeing around him physically and metaphysically are the women. Wayan is running his house, Nang is running his conscience and Da is running his agency, all afflicted by this latest tragedy as well as struggling with more private concerns. Claire, his long-dead, flame-haired love and Katie’s mother, is back once again as ghostly interlocutor, for Braddock has only one thing on his mind–revenge. ‘What miserable unidentified grave enfolds your remains?’ he asks of his vanished daughter, growing increasingly obsessed by the idea of killing the man who put her there, dreaming of a ‘more intimate revenge than any mortal had ever wreaked upon an enemy’.
But the weeks pass and the idea of Braddock completing the mission he has set himself seems beyond fantastic. Polzin is surrounded by bodyguards, virtually unassailable in his native country, his travel plans a closely guarded secret. As for the man who plans to hold the wobbling gun, he is falling apart both physically and mentally, barely functioning on a diet of tobacco and alcohol, his body assaulted by nausea and fever and, more worryingly, crippling chest pains. His voice, so distinctive, is changing, his ruminations on the human condition, though shot through with occasional flashes of the old ‘dark jesting’, are increasingly sombre.
‘Other than my talent for cynicism-which some might argue is not a talent at all-my skills are deserting me.’
It soon becomes clear that, in order to turn melodramatic fantasy into stone-killer reality, not only does Braddock need to get his personal act together, he also needs to get an accomplice. But will he be able to pull off such a far-fetched scheme, and at what cost? Dolan’s portrait of our hero, ‘caught in the maw of time, stripped bare, circled by spirits’ is almost unbearable. The book’s title, too, starts to weigh heavily and I was sorely tempted skip to the end and get it over with so I could mourn in peace.
Happily I managed to resist, and will resist revealing further details about this nail-biting finale except to say that the way the author manipulates a multi-stranded plot packed with tension and shocks is masterly. Like the preceding novels, it is richly-textured, with unforgettable characters and a cinematic sense of place which puts us sharply in a rainstorm on Koh Sui or in night-time Bangkok as ‘the city rears up on its hind legs and howls.’
Unlike the others, however, ‘Everyone Dies’ presents the author with a last, vital task. He must bring together the threads of the karmic web in a way that feels artistically right and will not disappoint readers already depressed at the idea of saying goodbye to their beloved anti-hero. At one point in the narrative Braddock recalls an occasion when he took his housekeeper Wayan to see a magic show during which a living person was turned into a corpse. This is a reminder that, no matter how persuasive Dolan may be in getting us to believe what he’s telling us, things are not always what they seem. The inspired ending for this final book, and thus for the series as a whole, is pitch perfect. And the final page is not really the last goodbye. Dolan, revisiting the same compelling themes while inventing new angles and aspects from which to observe them, invites us to do the same, continuing the story in our heads (usually around 4 a.m.).
What a feat. Take a bow, Mr D.
The ex pat, ex husband and PI without a licence of Book 1, accompanied by the usual props– a bottle of Bells and a packet of Marlboros–is central stage, taking stock. He’s added more exs to his list: ex saxophonist, ex therapist and, terribly and tragically, ex father. Around him it seems that everyone dies, the latest and most agonising of losses being that of his daughter Katie, murdered on the orders of her father-in-law, Russian oligarch Grigory Polzin.
It’s a great opening, reminding us of Braddock’s occasional skull-regarding Danish alter ego while also summarising the essential elements of what has gone before (the book can be read as a stand-alone, but what a pity to miss the earlier treats).The subtitle tells us it’s ‘a tale of human mortality,’ and like Hamlet and T.S.Eliot’s Webster, Braddock is much possessed by death. Tiptoeing around him physically and metaphysically are the women. Wayan is running his house, Nang is running his conscience and Da is running his agency, all afflicted by this latest tragedy as well as struggling with more private concerns. Claire, his long-dead, flame-haired love and Katie’s mother, is back once again as ghostly interlocutor, for Braddock has only one thing on his mind–revenge. ‘What miserable unidentified grave enfolds your remains?’ he asks of his vanished daughter, growing increasingly obsessed by the idea of killing the man who put her there, dreaming of a ‘more intimate revenge than any mortal had ever wreaked upon an enemy’.
But the weeks pass and the idea of Braddock completing the mission he has set himself seems beyond fantastic. Polzin is surrounded by bodyguards, virtually unassailable in his native country, his travel plans a closely guarded secret. As for the man who plans to hold the wobbling gun, he is falling apart both physically and mentally, barely functioning on a diet of tobacco and alcohol, his body assaulted by nausea and fever and, more worryingly, crippling chest pains. His voice, so distinctive, is changing, his ruminations on the human condition, though shot through with occasional flashes of the old ‘dark jesting’, are increasingly sombre.
‘Other than my talent for cynicism-which some might argue is not a talent at all-my skills are deserting me.’
It soon becomes clear that, in order to turn melodramatic fantasy into stone-killer reality, not only does Braddock need to get his personal act together, he also needs to get an accomplice. But will he be able to pull off such a far-fetched scheme, and at what cost? Dolan’s portrait of our hero, ‘caught in the maw of time, stripped bare, circled by spirits’ is almost unbearable. The book’s title, too, starts to weigh heavily and I was sorely tempted skip to the end and get it over with so I could mourn in peace.
Happily I managed to resist, and will resist revealing further details about this nail-biting finale except to say that the way the author manipulates a multi-stranded plot packed with tension and shocks is masterly. Like the preceding novels, it is richly-textured, with unforgettable characters and a cinematic sense of place which puts us sharply in a rainstorm on Koh Sui or in night-time Bangkok as ‘the city rears up on its hind legs and howls.’
Unlike the others, however, ‘Everyone Dies’ presents the author with a last, vital task. He must bring together the threads of the karmic web in a way that feels artistically right and will not disappoint readers already depressed at the idea of saying goodbye to their beloved anti-hero. At one point in the narrative Braddock recalls an occasion when he took his housekeeper Wayan to see a magic show during which a living person was turned into a corpse. This is a reminder that, no matter how persuasive Dolan may be in getting us to believe what he’s telling us, things are not always what they seem. The inspired ending for this final book, and thus for the series as a whole, is pitch perfect. And the final page is not really the last goodbye. Dolan, revisiting the same compelling themes while inventing new angles and aspects from which to observe them, invites us to do the same, continuing the story in our heads (usually around 4 a.m.).
What a feat. Take a bow, Mr D.
July 21, 2019
David Braddock, author John Dolan’s sardonic, Thailand-based, private detective, is in a bad place. He is agonizing over the murder of his daughter, Katie. He is smoking and drinking more than ever. His health is taking a nosedive too. An obsession is taking over his every waking moment… a deadly fixation on avenging his daughter’s death. The odds he faces are seemingly unsurmountable, and with every step he takes, he seems to be farther away from achieving his objective. ‘A bad place’ is probably an understatement.
Author Dolan doesn’t grab you from the first paragraph in his new book ‘Everyone Dies’. No. Dolan’s writing absorbs the reader through the magical osmosis of wordplay, transporting them inside Braddock’s convoluted mind, tantalizing them with caustic, dark humor, much more so in this novel than in many of the other Braddock tales to date.
From the very first Braddock novel, ‘Everyone Burns’, Dolan has repeated a mantra that could easily have come from the Old Buddhist Monk Ananda, one of the engaging characters that populate the pages of his tale: ‘everything is connected’. In this novel, Karma plays a major role, stalking the events and personages, and not just Braddock, with its wistful settlement of the consequences of their past deeds; sometimes bringing a smile to the reader; other times a sense that a mystical balance has been maintained through implacable justice. The only exception to this premise, in this brilliant novel, is James Fosse – yes, he’s back! – who seems to operate on a plane of existence with its own rules.
Dolan has revealed many facets of Braddock’s life, both past and present, over the preceding six novels, yet the tone that permeates this one, despite the reader’s enjoyment of the character’s acid drollness, is many shades of darkness greater than all the others. There’s a sense of finality, of abandonment in Braddock’s actions, which lends weight to the somber route the detective follows. I expected to feel sadness as the outcome of the novel presented itself. The sorrow that comes with saying goodbye to a lifelong friend. However, cleverly, author Dolan imbues a feeling of attainment, of closure in Fortuna’s wheel, which is a fitting culmination not just for David Braddock, but also for many of the detective’s frequent travel companions in the seven books.
My final words: Don’t Read this Book Now! Start with ‘Everyone Burns’ and let author John Dolan’s words whisk you away into the Braddock universe as you accompany the detective through the trials and tribulations, the many transitory ups and downs that make up his existence. You will not be disappointed. Five Stars is not enough for this glorious gift from author Dolan. Highly recommended.
Author Dolan doesn’t grab you from the first paragraph in his new book ‘Everyone Dies’. No. Dolan’s writing absorbs the reader through the magical osmosis of wordplay, transporting them inside Braddock’s convoluted mind, tantalizing them with caustic, dark humor, much more so in this novel than in many of the other Braddock tales to date.
From the very first Braddock novel, ‘Everyone Burns’, Dolan has repeated a mantra that could easily have come from the Old Buddhist Monk Ananda, one of the engaging characters that populate the pages of his tale: ‘everything is connected’. In this novel, Karma plays a major role, stalking the events and personages, and not just Braddock, with its wistful settlement of the consequences of their past deeds; sometimes bringing a smile to the reader; other times a sense that a mystical balance has been maintained through implacable justice. The only exception to this premise, in this brilliant novel, is James Fosse – yes, he’s back! – who seems to operate on a plane of existence with its own rules.
Dolan has revealed many facets of Braddock’s life, both past and present, over the preceding six novels, yet the tone that permeates this one, despite the reader’s enjoyment of the character’s acid drollness, is many shades of darkness greater than all the others. There’s a sense of finality, of abandonment in Braddock’s actions, which lends weight to the somber route the detective follows. I expected to feel sadness as the outcome of the novel presented itself. The sorrow that comes with saying goodbye to a lifelong friend. However, cleverly, author Dolan imbues a feeling of attainment, of closure in Fortuna’s wheel, which is a fitting culmination not just for David Braddock, but also for many of the detective’s frequent travel companions in the seven books.
My final words: Don’t Read this Book Now! Start with ‘Everyone Burns’ and let author John Dolan’s words whisk you away into the Braddock universe as you accompany the detective through the trials and tribulations, the many transitory ups and downs that make up his existence. You will not be disappointed. Five Stars is not enough for this glorious gift from author Dolan. Highly recommended.
July 25, 2019
5.0 out of 5 stars'Sad and Hung-over'!
July 23, 2019
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
Gawd! I love this John Dolan guy! What superlatives can I offer after reading the 'reviews' preceding this one?
Well, I can try!
I've been writing for a hundred years (also hyperbolic during that timeframe!), and this fellow captures the essence for me of what an author's obligation to a reader should be : give the readers pieces of you! give them your dark humor! give them characters that jump off the pages and into their lives! give them the grim and the gritty, a plot filled with moments of fear, moments of tears, moments of elation, of grief, all the emotions!
This author gives the reader the best he has to give.
After a hundred pages or so David Braddock had me 'hung-over' and with a 'quiet desperation'! David had me feeling hate for the man who killed his daughter, and lust for revenge. In the end, David left me sad, feeling rather bereft, alone, and with no place to go...
BR Chitwood - Author
July 23, 2019
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
Gawd! I love this John Dolan guy! What superlatives can I offer after reading the 'reviews' preceding this one?
Well, I can try!
I've been writing for a hundred years (also hyperbolic during that timeframe!), and this fellow captures the essence for me of what an author's obligation to a reader should be : give the readers pieces of you! give them your dark humor! give them characters that jump off the pages and into their lives! give them the grim and the gritty, a plot filled with moments of fear, moments of tears, moments of elation, of grief, all the emotions!
This author gives the reader the best he has to give.
After a hundred pages or so David Braddock had me 'hung-over' and with a 'quiet desperation'! David had me feeling hate for the man who killed his daughter, and lust for revenge. In the end, David left me sad, feeling rather bereft, alone, and with no place to go...
BR Chitwood - Author
July 16, 2019
'The Interconnected Web of events and people are well Crafted by Author Jon Dolan in this last Book of this Series and I just could not stop devouring each Page until I reached the very end... If I could give this book More Stars than the allowed Five, I Would... All great 'Entertainers' leave their Audience wanting More and John Dolan does exactly that by leaving the 'Braddock' family door enticingly ajar instead of Closing it completely... Bravo Mr Dolan, You have surpassed yourself... Again.
June 17, 2021
“Vengeance is a delicious fruit, which must be allowed to ripen in order that it may be fully enjoyed.”
Rest assured you can fully enjoy book 3 ‘Everyone Dies’ (Karma’s Children series) about David Braddock’s life, I for one didn’t want it to end (the series that is not his life). The first series (Time, Blood and Karma) has 4 books and should be read first for the full storyline from the beginning.
Every character is wonderfully created, described and humanised – even the psychopaths – the sign of a good writer. John Dolan isn’t a ‘good’ writer; he is an excellent writer, so you can be forgiven for feeling empathy for someone who spends their life killing people.
The other factor that sets these books apart is not just the thrilling and exceedingly clever plots and twists with an ample supply of clues and red herrings, it is the theme of connectivity that runs throughout all seven books. You pick it up and know it’s there, but still you are open mouthed when one is revealed.
Sheer brilliance and the only seven book series I’ve read in succession from one author. It’s been like living two lives; when I wasn’t reading one I was thinking about the characters, wondering what was going to happen, speculating on what could or should happen, trying to second guess the plots and potential twists. Absolute pleasure! I didn’t want them to end – thank you John Dolan for the journey and leaving me with hope…..maybe? Just a little hope? Never say never….. (Pat McDonald British Crime Author)
Rest assured you can fully enjoy book 3 ‘Everyone Dies’ (Karma’s Children series) about David Braddock’s life, I for one didn’t want it to end (the series that is not his life). The first series (Time, Blood and Karma) has 4 books and should be read first for the full storyline from the beginning.
Every character is wonderfully created, described and humanised – even the psychopaths – the sign of a good writer. John Dolan isn’t a ‘good’ writer; he is an excellent writer, so you can be forgiven for feeling empathy for someone who spends their life killing people.
The other factor that sets these books apart is not just the thrilling and exceedingly clever plots and twists with an ample supply of clues and red herrings, it is the theme of connectivity that runs throughout all seven books. You pick it up and know it’s there, but still you are open mouthed when one is revealed.
Sheer brilliance and the only seven book series I’ve read in succession from one author. It’s been like living two lives; when I wasn’t reading one I was thinking about the characters, wondering what was going to happen, speculating on what could or should happen, trying to second guess the plots and potential twists. Absolute pleasure! I didn’t want them to end – thank you John Dolan for the journey and leaving me with hope…..maybe? Just a little hope? Never say never….. (Pat McDonald British Crime Author)
June 20, 2021
A really enjoyable finish to a series, that I cannot recommend enough.
It follows on from the first 2 books in the series, so first thing to note, you do need to read them in order.
It continues the story of David Braddock who is now back in the far east and intent on revenge on the person who wrecked his life in book 2. *No spoilers here*
What I enjoyed about this book, and what felt a bit different to the other 2 was the descriptive way the author writes about Braddock, and it really feels like its his story this time, and we get to know virtually everything about him. We get to know how he is feeling all through the story and the emotions he is going through. It of course has some twists and turns along the way. Again, I'll not spoil them here.
So another brilliant effort from an author who I hope has more books to come.
Another brilliant 4.5* for me.
It follows on from the first 2 books in the series, so first thing to note, you do need to read them in order.
It continues the story of David Braddock who is now back in the far east and intent on revenge on the person who wrecked his life in book 2. *No spoilers here*
What I enjoyed about this book, and what felt a bit different to the other 2 was the descriptive way the author writes about Braddock, and it really feels like its his story this time, and we get to know virtually everything about him. We get to know how he is feeling all through the story and the emotions he is going through. It of course has some twists and turns along the way. Again, I'll not spoil them here.
So another brilliant effort from an author who I hope has more books to come.
Another brilliant 4.5* for me.
August 19, 2019
It ends with a bang, not with a whimper. I love John Dolan’s books. I was lucky enough to “discover” him early on in his career, shortly after he published his first novel, Everyone Burns, in 2013. Since then, he has completed two series, the first, composed of four books (the Time, Blood and Karma series) and now, this is the third (and final) novel in his second series, Karma’s Children. And I have read them, reviewed them, and loved them all. Therefore, I approached this, the last novel in the David Braddock universe (well, sort of, as it happens), with trepidation. I wanted to know how this series ended, because there were many issues left hanging after Two Rivers One Stream, but I was also sad that the end was near. Let me assure you, this book is a blast and a more than fitting conclusion to the series.
All these novels share the setting, mostly in Thailand, in Samui (well, some of the action takes place back in England, and there are some other trips and excursions along the way), and although I’ve never visited Thailand and can’t make comparisons, for me the novels have managed to create an atmosphere and a clear picture in my mind, not only of how the place looks like, but of its people, how their society works, and also what it must be like to live there day to day rather than just visiting as a tourist. The novels also share a main character, David Braddock, a British ex-pat/detective/therapist, who has issues of his own aplenty which we slowly discover through the novels. Not all the novels are narrated from the same point of view or take place in the same time-frame and following a chronological order. That gives us the advantage of getting background information and becoming familiar with the characters from a variety of perspectives, and we also become privy to some information that the main character doesn’t know (and that might make us think we are a step ahead, but, boy, are we wrong or what!).
This novel, narrated in first-person by David Braddock, the King of unreliable narrators, gives us another opportunity to share in his witticisms, his philosophising, his bad habits, and his peculiar interactions with those around him (ghosts included). I recently highlighted the first line of a book I read that I said had become one of my new favourites. The first two sentences of this book are also among the most memorable I’ve read (I’ll let you read them yourselves if you fancy the sound of the book. Remember you can check a sample on your usual online store). In case the description above is not enough, I thought I’d share how the book sums up its own content, because it will give you a fair idea of what is to come:
A tale of human mortality comprising a prologue, twenty-eight chapters, two interludes, and a Post Morten Report.
We find Braddock at a low point in his life, following the traumatic events in the previous novel and his very personal loss, and as a result, he starts plotting a revenge that would be complicated even for an experienced assassin, something he is not. His physical condition is also suffering due to his unhealthy lifestyle, but his goal keeps him going and then… I won’t go into the details of the plot, because I don’t want to spoil it for readers, and also because this novel brings together with great flair all the loose threads, not only of this series but of the previous one, and it would be difficult to explain it all to people who are not familiar with the story so far. This is not a novel I’d recommend to people who haven’t read any of the previous ones, because although there is enough background offered to refresh the memories of those who have read them over the years, I think much of the context would be lost if somebody started reading here. I had my suspicions about some of the new plot elements that are revealed in this novel, but I didn’t guess all of them, and I was in awe at how the author managed to weave such a complex story and make it flow naturally. I enjoyed meeting again my favourite characters (some who had not appeared for a while), and I was more than happy with some of the turn of events in the novel (but again, I’ll keep my mouth shut).
I can’t resist sharing a couple of early lines from the book, as a taster:
When one’s focus is on murdering someone, the proximity of female legs —even if aesthetically pleasing— hardly registers.
“Disillusionment should start young. It stops you from becoming bitter when you’re older.”
“Grief is not the presence of some red-clawed monster; looming up at us in the night. In point of fact, it’s not a presence at all. It’s an absence. The absence of something good.”
Well-written, with a dark and sharp sense of humour, clever dialogue, wonderful characters (and some awful ones as well, but wonderful in their awfulness), a fantastic setting, plenty of great quotes (quotes of other books opening each chapter, and eminently quotable lines), and a more-than-satisfying ending, this novel has it all. I keep recommending Dolan’s books to everybody but make sure to read both series in the right order, first Time, Blood and Karma and then Karma’s Children. You can thank me later. Oh, and the author is hard at work, writing the next novel about another character in the Braddock’s universe, and I can’t wait.
All these novels share the setting, mostly in Thailand, in Samui (well, some of the action takes place back in England, and there are some other trips and excursions along the way), and although I’ve never visited Thailand and can’t make comparisons, for me the novels have managed to create an atmosphere and a clear picture in my mind, not only of how the place looks like, but of its people, how their society works, and also what it must be like to live there day to day rather than just visiting as a tourist. The novels also share a main character, David Braddock, a British ex-pat/detective/therapist, who has issues of his own aplenty which we slowly discover through the novels. Not all the novels are narrated from the same point of view or take place in the same time-frame and following a chronological order. That gives us the advantage of getting background information and becoming familiar with the characters from a variety of perspectives, and we also become privy to some information that the main character doesn’t know (and that might make us think we are a step ahead, but, boy, are we wrong or what!).
This novel, narrated in first-person by David Braddock, the King of unreliable narrators, gives us another opportunity to share in his witticisms, his philosophising, his bad habits, and his peculiar interactions with those around him (ghosts included). I recently highlighted the first line of a book I read that I said had become one of my new favourites. The first two sentences of this book are also among the most memorable I’ve read (I’ll let you read them yourselves if you fancy the sound of the book. Remember you can check a sample on your usual online store). In case the description above is not enough, I thought I’d share how the book sums up its own content, because it will give you a fair idea of what is to come:
A tale of human mortality comprising a prologue, twenty-eight chapters, two interludes, and a Post Morten Report.
We find Braddock at a low point in his life, following the traumatic events in the previous novel and his very personal loss, and as a result, he starts plotting a revenge that would be complicated even for an experienced assassin, something he is not. His physical condition is also suffering due to his unhealthy lifestyle, but his goal keeps him going and then… I won’t go into the details of the plot, because I don’t want to spoil it for readers, and also because this novel brings together with great flair all the loose threads, not only of this series but of the previous one, and it would be difficult to explain it all to people who are not familiar with the story so far. This is not a novel I’d recommend to people who haven’t read any of the previous ones, because although there is enough background offered to refresh the memories of those who have read them over the years, I think much of the context would be lost if somebody started reading here. I had my suspicions about some of the new plot elements that are revealed in this novel, but I didn’t guess all of them, and I was in awe at how the author managed to weave such a complex story and make it flow naturally. I enjoyed meeting again my favourite characters (some who had not appeared for a while), and I was more than happy with some of the turn of events in the novel (but again, I’ll keep my mouth shut).
I can’t resist sharing a couple of early lines from the book, as a taster:
When one’s focus is on murdering someone, the proximity of female legs —even if aesthetically pleasing— hardly registers.
“Disillusionment should start young. It stops you from becoming bitter when you’re older.”
“Grief is not the presence of some red-clawed monster; looming up at us in the night. In point of fact, it’s not a presence at all. It’s an absence. The absence of something good.”
Well-written, with a dark and sharp sense of humour, clever dialogue, wonderful characters (and some awful ones as well, but wonderful in their awfulness), a fantastic setting, plenty of great quotes (quotes of other books opening each chapter, and eminently quotable lines), and a more-than-satisfying ending, this novel has it all. I keep recommending Dolan’s books to everybody but make sure to read both series in the right order, first Time, Blood and Karma and then Karma’s Children. You can thank me later. Oh, and the author is hard at work, writing the next novel about another character in the Braddock’s universe, and I can’t wait.
October 7, 2022
Excellent
The entire series simply perfect. The characters, their human tendencies along with the mysticism that compels us so, wonderfully balanced within a rich plot that .. if one may be so bold .. is a tribute to karma. Thank you, John Dolan.
The entire series simply perfect. The characters, their human tendencies along with the mysticism that compels us so, wonderfully balanced within a rich plot that .. if one may be so bold .. is a tribute to karma. Thank you, John Dolan.
March 13, 2025
Finishing The Tapestry
The threads of all those seemingly disparate lives & events are finally pulled together in a satisfying and surprising conclusion.
The threads of all those seemingly disparate lives & events are finally pulled together in a satisfying and surprising conclusion.
July 29, 2019
A long time ago (2011) in a galaxy far, far away, an author named John David Dolan committed to writing a heptalogy (a series of 7 theme-related books) about an English private detective living in Thailand named David Braddock. After 8 years, it is now complete. To put the breathtaking scope of this gargantuan undertaking in context, Proust’s In Search of Lost Time took 14 years to complete, and the Harry Potter series took 17 years to complete. Mr. Dolan spit out approx. 2500 densely packed pages of novel in 8 years. Apparently he never sleeps.
So here we are at The End, which Jim Morrison said was his only friend. In this case, the end not only is not my friend, but it might make me very sad. Mr. Dolan answers the most pressing question in the first few pages of the book: Is David Braddock included in the group designated as “Everyone” in the title? Mr. Dolan can’t possibly mean EVERYONE, can he?
Keep in mind that this novel, which can be read as a stand-alone (Mr. Dolan does a good, albeit of necessity truncated, job of filling in most of the back story), brings closure to a monumental story with dozens of characters and dozens of criss-crossing plot lines. Before closure, you, the reader, might first want openure (how about that for a newly minted word?). Start at the beginning, the first novel Everyone Burns, and follow the entire adventure. A shorter but very viable alternative plan is to start with Restless Earth, the 5th in the series and the first in the “Karma’s Children” trilogy, which might be called a major tributary of the whole River. If you love it, you can always go back to read the first four novels, known collectively as “Time, Blood, and Karma”. In either case, I promise you won’t regret it.
Now back to this book. Only John Dolan could be off and running with a brief dissertation on the nature of the afterlife, both above and below, from the perspective of the world’s great (and not so great) religions (he waxes philosophical on this topic several times in the novel). He even mentions the philosopher Schopenhauer, one of my favorite party animals from history. Talk about a terrific attention-grabbing opening for a novel.
It took no more than 2 chapters for me to settle into the familiar penetrating and irreverent Dolan-patois, a use of the language that is at once playful and serious, elucidating and self-deprecating, transcendent and earthy, emotional and hard-boiled, witty and often snarky as hell (i.e. the afterlife. See previous paragraph). As usual his Zen-like observations are spot on.
The blessing here is that there are so many loose ends left over from previous novels in the series that I am consumed with following the plot, so I am able to keep the thought of the death of some beloved characters at bay, as I devour the intrigue page by page. Hey, maybe I’m wrong, maybe only a few die. Maybe Mr. Dolan is just toying with me. I wouldn’t put it past him. I’ll have to keep reading to find out.
David Braddock is best summed up by a comment made to him by the recurring character the Old Zen Monk: “Always joking, but never funny. Life is not a joke.” For most of the book, David Braddock is coming unglued, as his life has become anything but a joke. Because of so much tragedy in his life he is losing his ability to cope. He is disintegrating emotionally and physically, drowning in a sea of alcohol and a dense cloud of cigarette smoke. It seems he can only focus on his obsession with delivering revenge for his daughter’s murder. This can’t go on.
The novel follows Braddock’s gradual rise from the Slough of Despond on his journey to an odd sort of redemption. Along the way, Mr. Dolan ties up all the loose ends, and treats us to a plethora of surprises. The novel’s denouement is a tour de force which brings shock and exhilaration to any reader who has followed Braddock’s exploits all these years. No spoilers here, but you will be thrilled by the seventh and final ending. Does EVERYONE really die? Read the novel to find out.
So here we are at The End, which Jim Morrison said was his only friend. In this case, the end not only is not my friend, but it might make me very sad. Mr. Dolan answers the most pressing question in the first few pages of the book: Is David Braddock included in the group designated as “Everyone” in the title? Mr. Dolan can’t possibly mean EVERYONE, can he?
Keep in mind that this novel, which can be read as a stand-alone (Mr. Dolan does a good, albeit of necessity truncated, job of filling in most of the back story), brings closure to a monumental story with dozens of characters and dozens of criss-crossing plot lines. Before closure, you, the reader, might first want openure (how about that for a newly minted word?). Start at the beginning, the first novel Everyone Burns, and follow the entire adventure. A shorter but very viable alternative plan is to start with Restless Earth, the 5th in the series and the first in the “Karma’s Children” trilogy, which might be called a major tributary of the whole River. If you love it, you can always go back to read the first four novels, known collectively as “Time, Blood, and Karma”. In either case, I promise you won’t regret it.
Now back to this book. Only John Dolan could be off and running with a brief dissertation on the nature of the afterlife, both above and below, from the perspective of the world’s great (and not so great) religions (he waxes philosophical on this topic several times in the novel). He even mentions the philosopher Schopenhauer, one of my favorite party animals from history. Talk about a terrific attention-grabbing opening for a novel.
It took no more than 2 chapters for me to settle into the familiar penetrating and irreverent Dolan-patois, a use of the language that is at once playful and serious, elucidating and self-deprecating, transcendent and earthy, emotional and hard-boiled, witty and often snarky as hell (i.e. the afterlife. See previous paragraph). As usual his Zen-like observations are spot on.
The blessing here is that there are so many loose ends left over from previous novels in the series that I am consumed with following the plot, so I am able to keep the thought of the death of some beloved characters at bay, as I devour the intrigue page by page. Hey, maybe I’m wrong, maybe only a few die. Maybe Mr. Dolan is just toying with me. I wouldn’t put it past him. I’ll have to keep reading to find out.
David Braddock is best summed up by a comment made to him by the recurring character the Old Zen Monk: “Always joking, but never funny. Life is not a joke.” For most of the book, David Braddock is coming unglued, as his life has become anything but a joke. Because of so much tragedy in his life he is losing his ability to cope. He is disintegrating emotionally and physically, drowning in a sea of alcohol and a dense cloud of cigarette smoke. It seems he can only focus on his obsession with delivering revenge for his daughter’s murder. This can’t go on.
The novel follows Braddock’s gradual rise from the Slough of Despond on his journey to an odd sort of redemption. Along the way, Mr. Dolan ties up all the loose ends, and treats us to a plethora of surprises. The novel’s denouement is a tour de force which brings shock and exhilaration to any reader who has followed Braddock’s exploits all these years. No spoilers here, but you will be thrilled by the seventh and final ending. Does EVERYONE really die? Read the novel to find out.
September 1, 2019
John Dolan’s final book in his Time, Blood and Karma and Karma’s Children series, Everyone Dies, wraps up an eight-book saga chronicling events in the life of British ex-pat David Braddock, on the island of Samui, in Thailand. A private investigator/counselor, Braddock has a knack for flirting with death as he investigates those who prefer to remain under the radar, including crime bosses and corrupt law enforcement. Everyone Dies picks up the story following several unresolved cliff hangers and his discovery that his daughter’s father in law, Russian crime boss Grigory Polzin, ordered the death of Braddock’s daughter Katie, which leads him to excessive drinking, smoking, eating, and plotting revenge.
Dolan’s sense of humor and well-honed skill in choosing great words makes for an engrossing read that starts off philosophically, then eventually takes you on a rollercoaster-like thrill ride, with unforgettable split-second timing. Through all of his losses, Braddock must somehow find a way to get past his grief, reverse his self-destructive behavior, and find new meaning in his life, which appears, at times, chaotic and lonely. Planning Polzin’s demise becomes his single-minded goal, one that is notably insane. Finding unlikely allies to assist him, Braddock pushes forward in pursuit of this goal, risking the very high odds that he will die trying.
Will Braddock succeed? Will he ever find the answers to the unsolved mysteries that nag at him? Will he ever find love and happiness, or will he die in his determined effort to exact revenge on Polzin? Dolan skillfully plants these nagging questions in your mind, where they simmer in the background as you cheer Braddock on, or mentally scream at him to stop! go! or whatever is called for at that moment, and hope that he does not leave you hanging, at the end, since this is really it. The end. No more.
Each book in this series can stand on its own, since Dolan provides enough context in each succeeding book to help you understand what is going on enough to enjoy the story. But it’s an unforgettable series that should not be missed. Not everyone can end a series satisfactorily. Dolan does not have that problem. By the end, we are willing to accept whatever fate is Braddock’s destiny, and we can walk away knowing that it is a story well told. Dolan is a masterful storyteller whose books are compelling, entertaining, and well written. Read this book. But better yet, read all of them, for it is an experience you will never forget.
Dolan’s sense of humor and well-honed skill in choosing great words makes for an engrossing read that starts off philosophically, then eventually takes you on a rollercoaster-like thrill ride, with unforgettable split-second timing. Through all of his losses, Braddock must somehow find a way to get past his grief, reverse his self-destructive behavior, and find new meaning in his life, which appears, at times, chaotic and lonely. Planning Polzin’s demise becomes his single-minded goal, one that is notably insane. Finding unlikely allies to assist him, Braddock pushes forward in pursuit of this goal, risking the very high odds that he will die trying.
Will Braddock succeed? Will he ever find the answers to the unsolved mysteries that nag at him? Will he ever find love and happiness, or will he die in his determined effort to exact revenge on Polzin? Dolan skillfully plants these nagging questions in your mind, where they simmer in the background as you cheer Braddock on, or mentally scream at him to stop! go! or whatever is called for at that moment, and hope that he does not leave you hanging, at the end, since this is really it. The end. No more.
Each book in this series can stand on its own, since Dolan provides enough context in each succeeding book to help you understand what is going on enough to enjoy the story. But it’s an unforgettable series that should not be missed. Not everyone can end a series satisfactorily. Dolan does not have that problem. By the end, we are willing to accept whatever fate is Braddock’s destiny, and we can walk away knowing that it is a story well told. Dolan is a masterful storyteller whose books are compelling, entertaining, and well written. Read this book. But better yet, read all of them, for it is an experience you will never forget.
August 2, 2025
Tense ... very tense.
Everyone dies ... or do they?
A tale of contract killings and revenge, with more twists than the Isle of Man TT course and just as fast!
David Braddock, detective, drunk and spiritually dead man, is trying to drink, smoke and eat himself to physical death. His wife is dead, his lover is dead, his father is dead, and now his daughter has been murdered.
Haunted by his wife's ghost and an unread manuscript written by his father.
Hardly surprising that it is only the idea of revenge that keeps him alive.
It is a great shame I read the Crimes of Inhumanity series first ... they are plot spoilers!
Everyone dies ... or do they?
A tale of contract killings and revenge, with more twists than the Isle of Man TT course and just as fast!
David Braddock, detective, drunk and spiritually dead man, is trying to drink, smoke and eat himself to physical death. His wife is dead, his lover is dead, his father is dead, and now his daughter has been murdered.
Haunted by his wife's ghost and an unread manuscript written by his father.
Hardly surprising that it is only the idea of revenge that keeps him alive.
It is a great shame I read the Crimes of Inhumanity series first ... they are plot spoilers!
October 14, 2019
‘Everyone Dies’ is one hell of a fine novel. But, sadly for me, it has its downside; it concludes John Dolan’s ‘Time, Blood and Karma’ series, and we get to say farewell to David Braddock the complex, introspective, Kho Samui PI, and goodbye to Wayan, Da, Jim Fosse, and all the other characters who figured in his life. And so, like all good things, the series ends.
But Dolan ends it well. At 437 pages, it’s the heftiest book in the series, and packed with drama, humor, wit and other goodies we fans of Dolan and Braddock have come to expect. In my heart I was hoping the writer would keep it going; maybe he will.
I have to say I was fortunate to start at the beginning. Lying on my back in a Chiang Mai hospital bed, and bored out of my mind I opened ‘Everyone Burns’ on my notebook, and met Braddock engaged in bar-room fist-fight. And so it began.
Next up was ‘Hungry Ghosts’ and a shift of action from Kho Samui to Bangkok. ‘Poison Tree’ followed and the drama intensified. As each book was published I downloaded and got into it, and pursued Braddock on his Quixotic quest. The only problem was, I had to wait.
But now the waiting is over and the series complete. Seven novels, each one independent, but linked as in a chain. So, for any new reader, as good as it is, a reading of ‘Everyone Dies’ should be delayed. Commence with ‘Everyone Burns’ and follow the series through. That way you’ll enjoy Braddock’s odyssey better, see how he wraps it all up, and get to savour ‘Everyone Dies’ in all its excellence. A super series, ending superbly. I can’t recommend it enough. Thank you Mr. Dolan.
But Dolan ends it well. At 437 pages, it’s the heftiest book in the series, and packed with drama, humor, wit and other goodies we fans of Dolan and Braddock have come to expect. In my heart I was hoping the writer would keep it going; maybe he will.
I have to say I was fortunate to start at the beginning. Lying on my back in a Chiang Mai hospital bed, and bored out of my mind I opened ‘Everyone Burns’ on my notebook, and met Braddock engaged in bar-room fist-fight. And so it began.
Next up was ‘Hungry Ghosts’ and a shift of action from Kho Samui to Bangkok. ‘Poison Tree’ followed and the drama intensified. As each book was published I downloaded and got into it, and pursued Braddock on his Quixotic quest. The only problem was, I had to wait.
But now the waiting is over and the series complete. Seven novels, each one independent, but linked as in a chain. So, for any new reader, as good as it is, a reading of ‘Everyone Dies’ should be delayed. Commence with ‘Everyone Burns’ and follow the series through. That way you’ll enjoy Braddock’s odyssey better, see how he wraps it all up, and get to savour ‘Everyone Dies’ in all its excellence. A super series, ending superbly. I can’t recommend it enough. Thank you Mr. Dolan.
July 31, 2019
I have read every one of Mr. Dolan's published books and always enjoy his writing style. Knowing this is the last book of the two combined series, a certain expectation was conjured in my mind up before I opened EVERYONE DIES. Man, this book is far beyond what I expected!
Writers are artists. Like any form of art, the ultimate goal of a book, besides for the sake of entertainment, is to let the words stir up the readers' emotions/imaginations and penetrate their hearts and souls. As a masterful word-crafter, Mr. Dolan has done just like that. As for a suspense-thriller, the plot is not massively action weighted. What makes this book unique is the gripping depiction of the mental/psychological journey that the main character, David Braddock, trudges through. Braddock is haggard from agony and sorrow from the loss of his loved ones. Revenge beleaguers him. He needs to kill! Planning and eventually witnessing the blood splashing out of his enemies' brains dominate his whole being- even the action may end his own life.
Besides the psychological intrigue (and similar to the preceding books in the series), EVERYONE DIES features humor, sarcasm, and philosophical commentary (steered towards Buddism) intertwined throughout the script. These elements entertain and provoke readers' thoughts.
Overall, EVERYONE DIES brings the entire saga and the cast of characters together nicely. It is a bittersweet farewell to a well-done series. And it is highly recommended.
Writers are artists. Like any form of art, the ultimate goal of a book, besides for the sake of entertainment, is to let the words stir up the readers' emotions/imaginations and penetrate their hearts and souls. As a masterful word-crafter, Mr. Dolan has done just like that. As for a suspense-thriller, the plot is not massively action weighted. What makes this book unique is the gripping depiction of the mental/psychological journey that the main character, David Braddock, trudges through. Braddock is haggard from agony and sorrow from the loss of his loved ones. Revenge beleaguers him. He needs to kill! Planning and eventually witnessing the blood splashing out of his enemies' brains dominate his whole being- even the action may end his own life.
Besides the psychological intrigue (and similar to the preceding books in the series), EVERYONE DIES features humor, sarcasm, and philosophical commentary (steered towards Buddism) intertwined throughout the script. These elements entertain and provoke readers' thoughts.
Overall, EVERYONE DIES brings the entire saga and the cast of characters together nicely. It is a bittersweet farewell to a well-done series. And it is highly recommended.
October 7, 2023
Everyone Dies is a brilliant conclusion to the Children of Karma series. I had mixed feelings when I started this book. Half of me couldn’t wait to reach the end and discover the fate of PI David Braddock and the other half wanted to prolong it, fearful of the outcome.
As always, the author is full of surprises and I commend him for his ability to conjure up the totally unexpected, as he does at the end of chapter one. If ever there was a final sentence that compelled you to read on, this was it!
It was sad to see Braddock’s descent into ill-health, as a consequence of his reckless lifestyle. He is on a mission: to wreak revenge on Grigory Polzin, the Russian behind the death of his daughter. His intent is all-consuming, to the detriment of everything else in his world, including the collapse of his business.
A riveting, if not harrowing finale to the series, Everything Dies ends with the mother of all twists and is enough to blow the reader’s head off.
The hallmark of Dolan’s works – his brand of dark humour, absorbing philosophical insights and excellent writing are all here. These are qualities that make his books stand out from the rest and bring us back time and time again to his latest releases. Keep them coming, Mr Dolan! 5*
As always, the author is full of surprises and I commend him for his ability to conjure up the totally unexpected, as he does at the end of chapter one. If ever there was a final sentence that compelled you to read on, this was it!
It was sad to see Braddock’s descent into ill-health, as a consequence of his reckless lifestyle. He is on a mission: to wreak revenge on Grigory Polzin, the Russian behind the death of his daughter. His intent is all-consuming, to the detriment of everything else in his world, including the collapse of his business.
A riveting, if not harrowing finale to the series, Everything Dies ends with the mother of all twists and is enough to blow the reader’s head off.
The hallmark of Dolan’s works – his brand of dark humour, absorbing philosophical insights and excellent writing are all here. These are qualities that make his books stand out from the rest and bring us back time and time again to his latest releases. Keep them coming, Mr Dolan! 5*
August 7, 2019
In the final instalment of John Dolan's trilogy, the story continues following the murder of David Braddock's daughter Katie. This leads David, the usually charming sarcastic private detective down a path of self destruction with a special relationship with whiskey and Marlboros. David plots his revenge on the Russian Oligarch, whilst holding conversations with his dead wife Claire. There are twists and turns as all the old characters are somehow factored into the intriguing, clever plot.
I loved this book, the dark humour, some real laugh out loud moments as well! Even though this is a very British crime thriller set in Thailand, it is not the normal gruesome sort of read. The Author is forever stating his personal thoughts and ideas throughout the book, keeping it light-hearted and fast paced.
Highly recommend, pick up this book, you will not be disappointed, well written, oozes charm and some good life lessons.
I loved this book, the dark humour, some real laugh out loud moments as well! Even though this is a very British crime thriller set in Thailand, it is not the normal gruesome sort of read. The Author is forever stating his personal thoughts and ideas throughout the book, keeping it light-hearted and fast paced.
Highly recommend, pick up this book, you will not be disappointed, well written, oozes charm and some good life lessons.
August 12, 2019
We have come to the end of the David Braddock saga and it was well worth the travel. While this is a stand-alone novel, the reader would be better served to start at Everybody Burns and read the books in sequence. You really get to appreciate the character (or lack of) of Braddock.
The books are action-packed, suspenseful and at times, irreverently funny. Braddock is a smarty-pants, not unlike the author ( his words, not mine) but the reader is drawn to him because he’s likable. He’s vulnerable. He’s a cad but a nice cad.
I’m sorry to see the last of Braddock. I said at one time after reading one of the novels that I was in love with David but I’ve moved on. I’m hoping to find new love in Mr. Dolan’s next series.
The books are action-packed, suspenseful and at times, irreverently funny. Braddock is a smarty-pants, not unlike the author ( his words, not mine) but the reader is drawn to him because he’s likable. He’s vulnerable. He’s a cad but a nice cad.
I’m sorry to see the last of Braddock. I said at one time after reading one of the novels that I was in love with David but I’ve moved on. I’m hoping to find new love in Mr. Dolan’s next series.
August 8, 2019
I've thoroughly enjoyed every book Mr. Dolan has written, and this was a fitting close to the "Karma's Children" series.
His writing can be vivid, humorous, or philosophically challenging. The backdrop of Southeast Asia is brilliantly painted, and the cast of characters fit well into the setting. The main character, David Braddock, is very human, the situations he gets himself into complex enough to make me introspective, ironic enough to make me smile to myself.
Well done, Mr. Dolan. I'm looking forward to more of your work.
His writing can be vivid, humorous, or philosophically challenging. The backdrop of Southeast Asia is brilliantly painted, and the cast of characters fit well into the setting. The main character, David Braddock, is very human, the situations he gets himself into complex enough to make me introspective, ironic enough to make me smile to myself.
Well done, Mr. Dolan. I'm looking forward to more of your work.
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August 30, 2019The final instalment in the series was hotly anticipated! I was expecting this book to be good and I was definitely not disappointed!
The beginning of the book really hooks you and then slowly reels you in. The loose ends are tied up beautifully and and the finale is just to die for..
I cannot recommend this book and the whole 2 series enough. Braddock is a fantastic protagonist, a flawed genius.
The beginning of the book really hooks you and then slowly reels you in. The loose ends are tied up beautifully and and the finale is just to die for..
I cannot recommend this book and the whole 2 series enough. Braddock is a fantastic protagonist, a flawed genius.
July 22, 2019
A fitting conclusion to this trilogy and the seven tales of David Braddock. Dry wit, emotional honestly, sly humor, and a complex caper grab hold and tear off relentlessly toward a satisfying end. Keep an eye out for old friends and welcome spectres.
September 22, 2022
Everyone Dies, is book three in the Children of Karma series. I read both other novels and was eager to read the grand finale to this rousing series. Chain smoking, whiskey swilling PI, David Braddock, is wracked by visions of his dead wife. His pitiful existence is tortured by a burning desire to exact revenge against Grigory Polzin, a Russian oligarch who hired a hitman to kill his daughter, Katie. He descends deeper and deeper into a world of alcoholism, chain smoking and subsequent illness through poor diet and self-neglect. His business is falling to pieces due to his laisse-faire attitude, and Da, His business partner, has serious problems of her own.
But above all, he must kill Polzin.
Will he die whilst attempting retribution against Polzin, a gangster with seemingly water tight security? Or will he die of some disease bought on by his lifestyle?
Brilliantly written in first-person, present tense, allowing an up-to-the-last-minute narrative, a style that allows any eventuality possible. The full-length novel, with lashings of dark humour, witticisms, and intrigue, reads quicker than a novella, such is the quality and style of writing.
Highly recommended five-star reading, but steady yourself for a mind-blowing twist at the end!
But above all, he must kill Polzin.
Will he die whilst attempting retribution against Polzin, a gangster with seemingly water tight security? Or will he die of some disease bought on by his lifestyle?
Brilliantly written in first-person, present tense, allowing an up-to-the-last-minute narrative, a style that allows any eventuality possible. The full-length novel, with lashings of dark humour, witticisms, and intrigue, reads quicker than a novella, such is the quality and style of writing.
Highly recommended five-star reading, but steady yourself for a mind-blowing twist at the end!
September 27, 2024
The book opens with a feverish atmosphere, reflecting the feverish state in which we find anti-hero David Braddock, lost in a haze of booze fumes and cigarettes smoke.
It continues along the themes of karma (used a trifle too often to justify rather implausible coincidences), death, afterlife and rebirth; a lot of soul searching and philosophising. So, yeah, well….a little exoteric but then this is John Dolan for you.
Everybody Dies is - or was meant to be - the last instalment of the series (the author could not help the temptation to put out one more book which I prefer to forget about for how bad it was); a compelling plot with an unexpected final twist and atmospheric ambiences makes Everybody Dies quite a satisfying book.
Overall, with a few up and downs, the Karma saga (based on the underlying karmic theme that “everything is connected”) was a good read, well written, undoubtedly with some sprinkles of originality and intriguing atmospheres; the variance from book to book it’s determined mainly by how good the plot of each book is.
Just one piece of advice to the newcomers: read the books in order! I didn’t and this did not help.
It continues along the themes of karma (used a trifle too often to justify rather implausible coincidences), death, afterlife and rebirth; a lot of soul searching and philosophising. So, yeah, well….a little exoteric but then this is John Dolan for you.
Everybody Dies is - or was meant to be - the last instalment of the series (the author could not help the temptation to put out one more book which I prefer to forget about for how bad it was); a compelling plot with an unexpected final twist and atmospheric ambiences makes Everybody Dies quite a satisfying book.
Overall, with a few up and downs, the Karma saga (based on the underlying karmic theme that “everything is connected”) was a good read, well written, undoubtedly with some sprinkles of originality and intriguing atmospheres; the variance from book to book it’s determined mainly by how good the plot of each book is.
Just one piece of advice to the newcomers: read the books in order! I didn’t and this did not help.
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