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Passaic River Trilogy #2
Payback: Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge
Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge, the second book of the Passaic River Trilogy, is a drama so intense that it would be improbable anywhere but 1946 Newark. Across the country millions were dealing with the loss of loved ones, and horrible memories were being buried for the greater good. But not in Newark. Two mutilated bodies were pulled from the putrid Passaic River, and the sawed-off arm of a third man was found neatly wrapped and tied at the city dump. The three victims were members of the German-American Bund, Hitler lovers who had to pay the price for supporting a murderous madman. Someone was sending a message that only revenge could clear the mind and free the soul.
It didn't take long for Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky, two veteran homicide cops [first introduced to readers in "Father Divine's Bikes" the first book of the Trilogy], to realize they were in over their heads as they grappled with ambition, greed, racial tension, international intrigue, and a powerful church on the take. The three murders could not have come at a worse time for Cisco. His wife, Connie, had left him, and his close-knit Catholic family had disowned him because of his affair with his lover, Grace.
To add to the chaos, Cisco learned that he could have another homicide on his plate. Father Terry Nolan cornered Cisco at the city morgue and demanded his help. The senior counsel for M.L. Kraus, manufacturer of the poisonous gas Zyklon B, and his German wife were severely beating a Catholic orphan they were seeking to adopt. The Archdiocese had weighed Kraus' huge cash contributions against a helpless girl's plight and did nothing.
Kraus, facing a host of war crime indictments in Germany, was fighting for its massive pre-war chemical holdings in New Jersey. A federal court in Newark would soon decide Kraus' fate. The outcome of the case would have a bearing not only on the company's future, but Europe's as well. Watching it all from the banks of the Passaic River was the dark specter of a murderous madman seeking further revenge.
It didn't take long for Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky, two veteran homicide cops [first introduced to readers in "Father Divine's Bikes" the first book of the Trilogy], to realize they were in over their heads as they grappled with ambition, greed, racial tension, international intrigue, and a powerful church on the take. The three murders could not have come at a worse time for Cisco. His wife, Connie, had left him, and his close-knit Catholic family had disowned him because of his affair with his lover, Grace.
To add to the chaos, Cisco learned that he could have another homicide on his plate. Father Terry Nolan cornered Cisco at the city morgue and demanded his help. The senior counsel for M.L. Kraus, manufacturer of the poisonous gas Zyklon B, and his German wife were severely beating a Catholic orphan they were seeking to adopt. The Archdiocese had weighed Kraus' huge cash contributions against a helpless girl's plight and did nothing.
Kraus, facing a host of war crime indictments in Germany, was fighting for its massive pre-war chemical holdings in New Jersey. A federal court in Newark would soon decide Kraus' fate. The outcome of the case would have a bearing not only on the company's future, but Europe's as well. Watching it all from the banks of the Passaic River was the dark specter of a murderous madman seeking further revenge.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2019
3 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
Steve Bassett
24 books12 followersBorn and raised in Newark's crime-ridden Third Ward, although far removed during a career as a multiple award-winning journalist, Steve Bassett has always been the proud sobriquet Jersey Guy. He has been legally blind for almost a decade, but having this hasn't slowed him down.
Bassett has written two nonfiction books, The Battered Rich and Golden Ghetto: How the Americans and French Fell In and Out of Love During the Cold War. Continuing with his newest fiction release, Father Divine’s Bikes (a Finalist in the 2018 International Book Award in the Cross-Genre Fiction category), readers share in his insights that earned him three Emmys for investigative documentaries, and the California Bar Association's first Medallion Award for Distinguished Reporting on the Administration of Justice. He now resides in Placitas, New Mexico with his wife, Darlene.
Bassett has written two nonfiction books, The Battered Rich and Golden Ghetto: How the Americans and French Fell In and Out of Love During the Cold War. Continuing with his newest fiction release, Father Divine’s Bikes (a Finalist in the 2018 International Book Award in the Cross-Genre Fiction category), readers share in his insights that earned him three Emmys for investigative documentaries, and the California Bar Association's first Medallion Award for Distinguished Reporting on the Administration of Justice. He now resides in Placitas, New Mexico with his wife, Darlene.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 5, 2020
Interesting read
I found this book to be a little slow at the start and it jumped around some, but the characters were interesting enough to hold my interest to follow through til the end. Somewhat unbelievable the way things pan out for most of the characters, and honestly I wish the Nazis had actually been killed!
I found this book to be a little slow at the start and it jumped around some, but the characters were interesting enough to hold my interest to follow through til the end. Somewhat unbelievable the way things pan out for most of the characters, and honestly I wish the Nazis had actually been killed!
January 6, 2020
Reviewed by Sheri Hoyte for Reader Views (9/19)
“Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge,” the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy by Steve Bassett, is exactly what the title suggests – penetrating love, obsessive hate and grisly revenge weaved intricately through a post WWII world that only gets more intense as it goes along.
The setting is 1946 and the world is still reeling from the aftermath of WWII. It’s no different in Newark, NJ, where acting homicide chief Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky are investigating a series of bizarre homicides that stink of retribution and find themselves knee-deep in cover up, ambition and power struggles. Two bodies pulled from the Passaic River, and a single arm of another found at the city dump, the victims are all identified as members of the German-American Bund, a pro-Nazi organization. The message behind the murders is clear – retaliation for crimes against humanity. Add in some racial tension, corporate greed, sexual dalliances, a marriage on the ropes, child abuse, gangsters, mind control, a mysterious madman, and a corrupt church – and you end up with an INTENSE drama that will keep you reading well into the night.
I had the pleasure of reading Steve Bassett’s first novel in the series, “Father Divine’s Bikes” and was excited for the opportunity to read his next journey along the Passaic River. True to form, Bassett’s gift is in the telling of his stories through his many, multifaceted characters. Their quirks, their faults, their strengths and weaknesses, one is delivered deep down into the psyche of each character, giving the reader a true sense of who they are and how they will react based on their thoroughly developed traits. But – that by no means implies they are predictable, and just when you think you know what’s going on and who’s who, Basset throws in a twist! And, as there are numerous characters essential to the plot, there are multiple sub-stories going on within the overall picture of the homicide investigation adding dimension and delicious layers to an amazing story. Basset’s use of historical figures and events also adds authenticity to the story, as does the use of local dialect and mannerisms of the time, along with vivid imagery of the various settings.
What I enjoy most about reading books in a series is that I often find myself invested in the characters and want to learn even more. With Bassett’s characters, you definitely get a strong sense of who they are and it’s exciting to see what they’ll do next. That and ok, I’m a total book nerd, but I like to look for subtle (or not so subtle) references to the previous story in the series. It’s fun to be able to point out, “Hey, I remember that!” and/or, “Wow, I see so-and-so is up to his old tricks!” In other words, recognition and familiarity breeds dedication, and I always look forward to seeing how the characters evolve in subsequent stories.
Overall, “Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge,” the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy by Steve Bassett, reads very well as a standalone novel, but go ahead and get the set. You won’t regret it. I highly recommend this book, and the series to fans of mystery/thriller, historical fiction and crime novels – really to anyone who enjoys a good story with memorable characters.
“Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge,” the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy by Steve Bassett, is exactly what the title suggests – penetrating love, obsessive hate and grisly revenge weaved intricately through a post WWII world that only gets more intense as it goes along.
The setting is 1946 and the world is still reeling from the aftermath of WWII. It’s no different in Newark, NJ, where acting homicide chief Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky are investigating a series of bizarre homicides that stink of retribution and find themselves knee-deep in cover up, ambition and power struggles. Two bodies pulled from the Passaic River, and a single arm of another found at the city dump, the victims are all identified as members of the German-American Bund, a pro-Nazi organization. The message behind the murders is clear – retaliation for crimes against humanity. Add in some racial tension, corporate greed, sexual dalliances, a marriage on the ropes, child abuse, gangsters, mind control, a mysterious madman, and a corrupt church – and you end up with an INTENSE drama that will keep you reading well into the night.
I had the pleasure of reading Steve Bassett’s first novel in the series, “Father Divine’s Bikes” and was excited for the opportunity to read his next journey along the Passaic River. True to form, Bassett’s gift is in the telling of his stories through his many, multifaceted characters. Their quirks, their faults, their strengths and weaknesses, one is delivered deep down into the psyche of each character, giving the reader a true sense of who they are and how they will react based on their thoroughly developed traits. But – that by no means implies they are predictable, and just when you think you know what’s going on and who’s who, Basset throws in a twist! And, as there are numerous characters essential to the plot, there are multiple sub-stories going on within the overall picture of the homicide investigation adding dimension and delicious layers to an amazing story. Basset’s use of historical figures and events also adds authenticity to the story, as does the use of local dialect and mannerisms of the time, along with vivid imagery of the various settings.
What I enjoy most about reading books in a series is that I often find myself invested in the characters and want to learn even more. With Bassett’s characters, you definitely get a strong sense of who they are and it’s exciting to see what they’ll do next. That and ok, I’m a total book nerd, but I like to look for subtle (or not so subtle) references to the previous story in the series. It’s fun to be able to point out, “Hey, I remember that!” and/or, “Wow, I see so-and-so is up to his old tricks!” In other words, recognition and familiarity breeds dedication, and I always look forward to seeing how the characters evolve in subsequent stories.
Overall, “Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge,” the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy by Steve Bassett, reads very well as a standalone novel, but go ahead and get the set. You won’t regret it. I highly recommend this book, and the series to fans of mystery/thriller, historical fiction and crime novels – really to anyone who enjoys a good story with memorable characters.
December 10, 2019
Unlike its more journalistic predecessor in the series Father Divine’s Bikes, there is a more discernible air of ‘forties noir pulp fiction about this book. Whilst its prequel focused heavily on cultural differences and animosities, this is more story led, with a greater role on crime fiction, and more prominence given to two of its resuming lead characters, detectives Nick Cisco and Kevin McClosky. Other than this, the intertwined stories, subplots and backstories have only the most superficial connection to the first book, in that it is set in the same melting pot of a neighbourhood in Newark, New Jersey, in 1946. Overall, though, this can truly be considered a stand-alone book, and there is no necessity to read the series in any particular order up to this point.
The stories are good ones: a diplomatic but far from by-the-book cop trying to solve the grisly murders of three U.S. based Nazis; a decorated black war veteran whose attack on a racist landlord risks causing a race riot; a priest’s desperate attempt to rescue a young girl being put into the care of an abusive couple; a tough, battered wife divorcing and fleecing her mafia husband, to fall into the arms of a local police sergeant. The stories are all connected beneath one overarching tale, though it is sometimes a little easy to forget this and get swept up in them individually. Cutaways to each are interspersed in long segments, and when the reader is returned to one, it can be some time before returning to the other, which can interrupt the flow somewhat. For this reason, it can seem a little disjointed at times, and to tell the truth I felt that it may have benefitted far more from a much clearer distinction between the tales, in a more explicitly defined pulp fiction style – perhaps even with separate titles. Of course, to this end, I do acknowledge that Steve Bassett might not even agree with my suggestion that this is pure pulp. The timeline is not always linear, and there are a lot of peripheral characters and events going on – indeed, new characters are introduced continually, with rather in-depth dialogue and backstory around them. For these reasons, I felt that it does not feel particularly fluid, and as the reader I had to work a little harder than I would have liked, at times, in order to follow the overall storyline; it is fair to say that keeping engaged was easier in some parts than others - these particular parts could have been better capitalized upon.
But, apart from this overall observation, it must be said that Payback is right up there as far as professional and serious writing goes. Steve is an author of quality, no doubt, and this is an extraordinarily well-written, intelligent and highly thoughtful book, if lacking the profound context of its predecessor. There are one or two tiny issues with the proof, which mar it very minimally, otherwise a very good, high quality read – and from Bassett I expected no less.
The stories are good ones: a diplomatic but far from by-the-book cop trying to solve the grisly murders of three U.S. based Nazis; a decorated black war veteran whose attack on a racist landlord risks causing a race riot; a priest’s desperate attempt to rescue a young girl being put into the care of an abusive couple; a tough, battered wife divorcing and fleecing her mafia husband, to fall into the arms of a local police sergeant. The stories are all connected beneath one overarching tale, though it is sometimes a little easy to forget this and get swept up in them individually. Cutaways to each are interspersed in long segments, and when the reader is returned to one, it can be some time before returning to the other, which can interrupt the flow somewhat. For this reason, it can seem a little disjointed at times, and to tell the truth I felt that it may have benefitted far more from a much clearer distinction between the tales, in a more explicitly defined pulp fiction style – perhaps even with separate titles. Of course, to this end, I do acknowledge that Steve Bassett might not even agree with my suggestion that this is pure pulp. The timeline is not always linear, and there are a lot of peripheral characters and events going on – indeed, new characters are introduced continually, with rather in-depth dialogue and backstory around them. For these reasons, I felt that it does not feel particularly fluid, and as the reader I had to work a little harder than I would have liked, at times, in order to follow the overall storyline; it is fair to say that keeping engaged was easier in some parts than others - these particular parts could have been better capitalized upon.
But, apart from this overall observation, it must be said that Payback is right up there as far as professional and serious writing goes. Steve is an author of quality, no doubt, and this is an extraordinarily well-written, intelligent and highly thoughtful book, if lacking the profound context of its predecessor. There are one or two tiny issues with the proof, which mar it very minimally, otherwise a very good, high quality read – and from Bassett I expected no less.
Read
April 23, 2020Bassett’s saga unveiled in the noir Passaic River Trilogy is a compilation of history, memories, and experiences lived at a time of change and struggle in a “place at which the archives end and the author’s imagination begins” at the end of WWII in the central ward of Newark, NJ. One of America’s oldest industrial cities, the residents of this storied ward are caught in a downward spiral of poverty and racial divide following the boom years of America’s war economy. The increasing loss of income and opportunity is compounded by a mob war, murder and the arrival of a growing number of families fleeing the repressive laws of the Jim Crow period. Enter Father Divine the charismatic preacher encouraging his followers to pursue their own heaven on earth and you have a toxic mix of disillusionment, fear and increasing poverty fueling a growing animosity between the marginalized residents and the desperate but hopeful new arrivals.
In Book 1, “Father Divine’s Bikes,” we meet Detective Nick Cisco, a capable but personally flawed individual whose marriage and family life are in tatters. He and his partner, Kevin McCloskey, are handed the task of solving a murder that shows the rough and squalid side of Newark replete with corrupt cops, self-serving politicians, prostitutes, and crime bosses. In his telling, Bassett shares, in detail, the stories of Joey Bancik, Nick Cisco, Constance Cisco (his wife), Grace De Marco (his obsession), and his partner, Kevin McCloskey. All familiar, all stamped in relief of people and places “that bear on the immediate present” that is the Passaic River Trilogy. Among “Father Divine’s Bikes” awards are Book Excellence Award Finalist for Book in a Series 2020; and Solo Medal Winner New Apple Literary Award, E-book General Fiction.
In “Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge” (Book 2) we pick up where Book 1 ended with Nick Cisco, a newly promoted Lieutenant and his newly minted Sergeant McCloskey asked to investigate an apparent murder with only a severed hand as evidence of a crime. Their investigation will lead the duo to remnants of the New Jersey German American Bund party, a group of Nazi sympathizers, well healed industrialists, ambitious politicians, cops and clergy grasping at any opportunity to advance their own interests while bodies pile up and the detectives struggle to find the killer or killers.
The dialogue in the Passaic River Trilogy is tough, gritty and unbridled in word and convention. As with all true noir fiction there are the lustful, the sexy, the fatalistic, the vengeful, the outsider and the mystery. All unfold in a compelling tale of love, hate, revenge ….. and redemption. Each character is a story within the story and the telling leaves you with a taste to know more about what becomes of them.
In Book 1, “Father Divine’s Bikes,” we meet Detective Nick Cisco, a capable but personally flawed individual whose marriage and family life are in tatters. He and his partner, Kevin McCloskey, are handed the task of solving a murder that shows the rough and squalid side of Newark replete with corrupt cops, self-serving politicians, prostitutes, and crime bosses. In his telling, Bassett shares, in detail, the stories of Joey Bancik, Nick Cisco, Constance Cisco (his wife), Grace De Marco (his obsession), and his partner, Kevin McCloskey. All familiar, all stamped in relief of people and places “that bear on the immediate present” that is the Passaic River Trilogy. Among “Father Divine’s Bikes” awards are Book Excellence Award Finalist for Book in a Series 2020; and Solo Medal Winner New Apple Literary Award, E-book General Fiction.
In “Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge” (Book 2) we pick up where Book 1 ended with Nick Cisco, a newly promoted Lieutenant and his newly minted Sergeant McCloskey asked to investigate an apparent murder with only a severed hand as evidence of a crime. Their investigation will lead the duo to remnants of the New Jersey German American Bund party, a group of Nazi sympathizers, well healed industrialists, ambitious politicians, cops and clergy grasping at any opportunity to advance their own interests while bodies pile up and the detectives struggle to find the killer or killers.
The dialogue in the Passaic River Trilogy is tough, gritty and unbridled in word and convention. As with all true noir fiction there are the lustful, the sexy, the fatalistic, the vengeful, the outsider and the mystery. All unfold in a compelling tale of love, hate, revenge ….. and redemption. Each character is a story within the story and the telling leaves you with a taste to know more about what becomes of them.
February 12, 2020
Payback by Steve Bassett is a story that had been set during the year 1946, that was exactly after the second world war had blown up. This is the second book in the Passaic river trilogy. But this book could also be read as a standalone. As the title indicate, this story is filled with love, hatred and also revenge that comes in the form of gruesome murders. At that time Adolf Hitler was the leader of the National Socialist German Worker's party. And three German people from this Nazi organization were brutally killed that left all the cops shocked and clueless.
The two main protagonists Nick Cisco the Lieutenant Chief and his detective partner Sergeant Kevin McClosky were struggling hard to find the criminals in the place called Newark, New Jersey. This long term investigation process had involved incidents such as racial & language discriminations, marital affairs, corruption and child abuse. Despite handling their own life problems, how these two officials crack these murder cases with their crew is the story.
There were many characters with their own life stories going on, which made this book even more interesting. Even though not each character in this book had a major role, each one of them was equally significant. Amidst many tensions, we could clearly get to understand so many things happening in each character's life which adds more twists to the story.
I loved the author's writing style. The narration was lucid and understandable. I loved even more how the author had built numerous characters and made their part very crisp and clear. I felt that there were many repetitive phrases throughout the book. I liked the climax that was different from what I had expected it would be. I would recommend this book to all mystery/thriller fans.
The two main protagonists Nick Cisco the Lieutenant Chief and his detective partner Sergeant Kevin McClosky were struggling hard to find the criminals in the place called Newark, New Jersey. This long term investigation process had involved incidents such as racial & language discriminations, marital affairs, corruption and child abuse. Despite handling their own life problems, how these two officials crack these murder cases with their crew is the story.
There were many characters with their own life stories going on, which made this book even more interesting. Even though not each character in this book had a major role, each one of them was equally significant. Amidst many tensions, we could clearly get to understand so many things happening in each character's life which adds more twists to the story.
I loved the author's writing style. The narration was lucid and understandable. I loved even more how the author had built numerous characters and made their part very crisp and clear. I felt that there were many repetitive phrases throughout the book. I liked the climax that was different from what I had expected it would be. I would recommend this book to all mystery/thriller fans.
November 20, 2020
🌸This is the second book I have read by Author Steve Bassett. Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge takes place in 1946 after WW2 . There is still a lot of tension, brutal murders and racism.
The story starts with the murders where two mutilated bodies were pulled from the putrid Passaic River, and the third one was found neatly wrapped and tied at the city dump. Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky came to know that the three victims were members of the German-American Bund.
Soon Cisco learned about the another case. Father Terry Nolan cornered Cisco at the city morgue and demanded his help. The senior counsel for M.L. Kraus, manufacturer of the poisonous gas Zyklon B, and his German wife were severely beating a Catholic orphan they were seeking to adopt.
The story also covered the personal life of a police lieutenant and his relationship with his own family and his wife. At that time, divorce was not well accepted by society and the couple undertakes guidance from the church.
🌸All these series of crimes are original. This story involves so many characters and story threads that it may confuse you but soon you will realise you are getting everything about the story. The characters are very realistic and good enough to keep you engaged with the story. I liked this book because it depicts the real stories. The novel focuses heavily on story through characterization which is done very well. The book is filled with rich and diverse characters, each bringing their own set of problems and the great role of police officers is superb. The story has quite a few twists and turns which keeps us hooked. It's truly enjoyable and in spite of everything that happens it has a happy ending.
The story starts with the murders where two mutilated bodies were pulled from the putrid Passaic River, and the third one was found neatly wrapped and tied at the city dump. Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky came to know that the three victims were members of the German-American Bund.
Soon Cisco learned about the another case. Father Terry Nolan cornered Cisco at the city morgue and demanded his help. The senior counsel for M.L. Kraus, manufacturer of the poisonous gas Zyklon B, and his German wife were severely beating a Catholic orphan they were seeking to adopt.
The story also covered the personal life of a police lieutenant and his relationship with his own family and his wife. At that time, divorce was not well accepted by society and the couple undertakes guidance from the church.
🌸All these series of crimes are original. This story involves so many characters and story threads that it may confuse you but soon you will realise you are getting everything about the story. The characters are very realistic and good enough to keep you engaged with the story. I liked this book because it depicts the real stories. The novel focuses heavily on story through characterization which is done very well. The book is filled with rich and diverse characters, each bringing their own set of problems and the great role of police officers is superb. The story has quite a few twists and turns which keeps us hooked. It's truly enjoyable and in spite of everything that happens it has a happy ending.
November 25, 2020
“𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸-𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲” 𝗯𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗕𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘁𝘁 is set in 1946, when much of the world staggered through chaos and desperation to recover from the explosion of World War II. This is the second book of Bassett’s Passaic River Trilogy, yet, it could very well standalone as an independent work of literature.
While its prequel, “Father Divine’s Bikes,” emphasized social contrasts and hostilities, “Payback” is more story driven. It is noir crime fiction that emphasizes criminal wrongdoing and how two of the Trilogy’s continuing lead characters, detectives Nick Cisco and Kevin McClosky, prowl the dark streets of a city where crime is endemic.
Two bodies pulled from the Passaic River, and the arm of another victim discovered at the city dump, the casualties are identified as the remains of members of the German-American Bund, a nationwide pre-war group of Nazi lovers. What was the message behind these killings? What will Cisco and McClosky’s investigation reveal? What is their connection?
As expected, after reading the first book of his trilogy, Bassett's blessing is his recounting of the events surrounding the characters in this multifaceted book. Their eccentricities, shortcomings, and qualities, are easily conveyed in such a manner to give readers an insight into each character’s motivation. This literary mosaic reveals each character’s identity and how individual characteristics dictate their response. Each character is a story inside the story and the advising leaves you with a taste to find out about what is the fate of them.
𝘼𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝘼𝙢𝙖𝙯𝙤𝙣.
While its prequel, “Father Divine’s Bikes,” emphasized social contrasts and hostilities, “Payback” is more story driven. It is noir crime fiction that emphasizes criminal wrongdoing and how two of the Trilogy’s continuing lead characters, detectives Nick Cisco and Kevin McClosky, prowl the dark streets of a city where crime is endemic.
Two bodies pulled from the Passaic River, and the arm of another victim discovered at the city dump, the casualties are identified as the remains of members of the German-American Bund, a nationwide pre-war group of Nazi lovers. What was the message behind these killings? What will Cisco and McClosky’s investigation reveal? What is their connection?
As expected, after reading the first book of his trilogy, Bassett's blessing is his recounting of the events surrounding the characters in this multifaceted book. Their eccentricities, shortcomings, and qualities, are easily conveyed in such a manner to give readers an insight into each character’s motivation. This literary mosaic reveals each character’s identity and how individual characteristics dictate their response. Each character is a story inside the story and the advising leaves you with a taste to find out about what is the fate of them.
𝘼𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝘼𝙢𝙖𝙯𝙤𝙣.
December 24, 2019
The Review
A phenomenal story of grisly murders, tensions from a long fought and gruesome war, and so much more take center stage in this truly wonderful novel. The story echoes the great days of crime fiction and noir style storytelling, highlighting an era of upheaval and change in the United States and around the world in the wake of the Second World War.
The novel focuses heavily on story through characterization. The book is filled with rich and diverse characters, each bringing their own set of problems and history that enhance the overall story and make the ongoing investigations and actions of other characters have much more emphasis on the overall story. Combined with the theme and genre of the story, this characterization draws the reader in immediately and gets the reader hooked on the action of the novel throughout every chapter.
The Verdict
This is a must read crime fiction read of 2019. A high octane drama with in-depth character development and edge of your seat thrills, this novel is the perfect winter read for any fan of the crime thriller genre. Those who love the classic noir style storytelling will absolutely love this novel, and despite it being the second novel in a series, the reader will find this novel stands on its own and is easily able to be absorbed. An evenly paced read overall, be sure to grab your copies of “Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge” by Stephen Bassett today!
A phenomenal story of grisly murders, tensions from a long fought and gruesome war, and so much more take center stage in this truly wonderful novel. The story echoes the great days of crime fiction and noir style storytelling, highlighting an era of upheaval and change in the United States and around the world in the wake of the Second World War.
The novel focuses heavily on story through characterization. The book is filled with rich and diverse characters, each bringing their own set of problems and history that enhance the overall story and make the ongoing investigations and actions of other characters have much more emphasis on the overall story. Combined with the theme and genre of the story, this characterization draws the reader in immediately and gets the reader hooked on the action of the novel throughout every chapter.
The Verdict
This is a must read crime fiction read of 2019. A high octane drama with in-depth character development and edge of your seat thrills, this novel is the perfect winter read for any fan of the crime thriller genre. Those who love the classic noir style storytelling will absolutely love this novel, and despite it being the second novel in a series, the reader will find this novel stands on its own and is easily able to be absorbed. An evenly paced read overall, be sure to grab your copies of “Payback - Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge” by Stephen Bassett today!
December 2, 2025
Payback: Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge by Steve Bassett is a riveting historical crime drama that plunges readers into the tense and morally complex world of 1946 Newark. As the second installment in the Passaic River Trilogy, the book masterfully blends murder mystery, post war societal tension, and intricate character dynamics, creating a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.
The narrative follows Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and Sergeant Kevin McClosky as they navigate a web of ambition, greed, racial tension, and international intrigue following the discovery of gruesome murders linked to Nazi collaborators. Bassett’s depiction of Newark’s post war landscape is both vivid and harrowing, providing context for the human and institutional conflicts that drive the plot.
With sharp pacing, intense suspense, and complex characters, the book examines themes of justice, vengeance, and moral ambiguity. Readers who enjoy historical thrillers with richly detailed settings, layered storytelling, and high stakes will find themselves absorbed in Bassett’s dark, unforgettable tale
The narrative follows Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and Sergeant Kevin McClosky as they navigate a web of ambition, greed, racial tension, and international intrigue following the discovery of gruesome murders linked to Nazi collaborators. Bassett’s depiction of Newark’s post war landscape is both vivid and harrowing, providing context for the human and institutional conflicts that drive the plot.
With sharp pacing, intense suspense, and complex characters, the book examines themes of justice, vengeance, and moral ambiguity. Readers who enjoy historical thrillers with richly detailed settings, layered storytelling, and high stakes will find themselves absorbed in Bassett’s dark, unforgettable tale
May 18, 2020
This is the first book that I read by Steve Bassett and I was really very positively surprised. It describes how the underworld in the Jersey area worked (as well as the police) and how hatred resulting from WWII still had a tight grip on many people. At the same time, it also covers the personal life of a police lieutenant and his relationship with his own family and that of his wife´s. At that time, divorce was not well accepted by society in general and the couple undertakes guidance from the church - role now performed by couples´counselling professionals. The plot thickens as a "perfect" German family tries to adopt a girl that was being taken care of by a Catholic Convent and the church´s relation to the law and to the community is exposed. The story has quite a few twists and turns and calls for the reader´s attention. It´s truly enjoyable and in spite of everything that happens it has a happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book from the author/Hidden Gems books in exchanged for an unbiased review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author/Hidden Gems books in exchanged for an unbiased review.
October 27, 2020
Payback is the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy but one can read this as a standalone also. The story is set in the year 1946 after the world war II. In Newark, New Jersey there were racial tensions among the city. Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky were investigating a case. Two bodies were found from the Passaic River and an arm of a third man was tied at the city dump as shown in the cover photo. It was discovered that all three victims were part of the German-American bund, a pro-Nazi organization. Story involves child abuse, gangsters, corruption, greed, etc. If you love stories involving drama then this one will be the perfect read for you. This book is a blend of different genres like historical fiction, crime, thriller, suspense, horror, etc. There are vast characters in the story to keep track of but author has captured the essence of 1946 Newark and presented it very well to the readers. I am quite impressed with the overall storyline. It's a gripping story and you won't regret reading this one. Add in your TBR now.
Rating 4.5/5
Rating 4.5/5
May 1, 2020
This second book in the Passaic River Trilogy by Steve Bassett was definitely a suspenseful cat-and-mouse story between those seeking revenge and those seeking justice in the years following WWII. The police officers were depicted as willing to do whatever it takes or the ends justify the means kind of guys who were more than willing to cross the little blue line of law in order to prevent further murders, as well as finding and bringing those responsible to justice. The suspects were depicted as determined, even though they were not in complete control of the situation or their actions. Underlying this storyline was another developing issue of saving Germany by returning assets confiscated by the US government during the war. There were a couple of vividly described grisly and gory bodies and parts thereof. The story moved quickly along from beginning to the nicely wrapped ending. This is a voluntary review of an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from Hidden Gems Books.
October 27, 2020
Book: Payback
Author: Steve Bassett
Review:
Payback is the second book that I have read by the author Steve Bassett. I love reading crime thrillers and therefore I picked this one. The story highlights the aftermath of World War II in Newark. Two detectives Cisco and McClosky found a hand of a man tied at city dump and two bodies were recovered from Passaic River. With three murders and his wife Connie leaving him, things were not easy for Cisco. Read the entire story yourself to know further about their investigations and what all they had to deal with.
Review:
1) Cover photo of the book is eye catchy and totally related to the story.
2) Title of the book is short and nice.
3) There are diverse characters in the story and author has very well introduced all the characters.
4) Narration is smooth and made the story gripping.
5) The pace of the story is fine and made it a captivating read.
Rating: 4.5/5
Author: Steve Bassett
Review:
Payback is the second book that I have read by the author Steve Bassett. I love reading crime thrillers and therefore I picked this one. The story highlights the aftermath of World War II in Newark. Two detectives Cisco and McClosky found a hand of a man tied at city dump and two bodies were recovered from Passaic River. With three murders and his wife Connie leaving him, things were not easy for Cisco. Read the entire story yourself to know further about their investigations and what all they had to deal with.
Review:
1) Cover photo of the book is eye catchy and totally related to the story.
2) Title of the book is short and nice.
3) There are diverse characters in the story and author has very well introduced all the characters.
4) Narration is smooth and made the story gripping.
5) The pace of the story is fine and made it a captivating read.
Rating: 4.5/5
December 12, 2025
Payback: Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge is a gripping continuation of the Passaic River Trilogy that plunges readers into post-war Newark, where crime, corruption, and revenge collide with devastating intensity. Steve Bassett masterfully combines historical context with a deeply personal narrative, creating a story that is both suspenseful and emotionally compelling.
Bassett’s intricate plotting and vivid characterization make the turmoil of 1946 Newark come alive. Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and Sergeant Kevin McClosky navigate a labyrinth of murder, political intrigue, and personal betrayal, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The tension between justice and moral compromise, set against the backdrop of post-war chaos, ensures this thriller is both thought-provoking and thrilling. Bassett’s storytelling elevates historical fiction and crime drama, leaving readers craving the next chapter in the trilogy.
Bassett’s intricate plotting and vivid characterization make the turmoil of 1946 Newark come alive. Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and Sergeant Kevin McClosky navigate a labyrinth of murder, political intrigue, and personal betrayal, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The tension between justice and moral compromise, set against the backdrop of post-war chaos, ensures this thriller is both thought-provoking and thrilling. Bassett’s storytelling elevates historical fiction and crime drama, leaving readers craving the next chapter in the trilogy.
October 28, 2020
Payback by the author Steve Bassett is a story of love, hate and revenge. It is the second book in the Passaic River Trilogy. The story starts from 1946 Newark. Two detectives Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner Detective Sergeant Kevin McClosky found out that all the three victims were connected to American-German bund.
Cisco soon got involved in another case involving an orphan child that was to be adopted by Kraus. Story involves more actions by the two cops Nick and Kevin. The novel has so many subplots and it's a lengthy one to read. The story is intriguing and there is so much in store for readers in this book.
Language is lucid and the narration is remarkable. Cover of the book is interesting and a little scary. I like to recommend it to those who love to read historical fiction and crime novels. Overall, it's a wonderful read that I enjoyed.
Cisco soon got involved in another case involving an orphan child that was to be adopted by Kraus. Story involves more actions by the two cops Nick and Kevin. The novel has so many subplots and it's a lengthy one to read. The story is intriguing and there is so much in store for readers in this book.
Language is lucid and the narration is remarkable. Cover of the book is interesting and a little scary. I like to recommend it to those who love to read historical fiction and crime novels. Overall, it's a wonderful read that I enjoyed.
February 13, 2020
Payback:Tales of Love, Hate & Revenge takes place in 1946 hust after WW11. There is still a lot of tension, brutal murders and racism.
Payback is a page turner that will captivate from beginning to end. Wonderful historical details of the past that you can visualize as the story continues. Diverse characters with their own problems and an ongoing investigation that keeps you intrigued throughout the story.
Thank you BookSirens and the author for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Payback is a page turner that will captivate from beginning to end. Wonderful historical details of the past that you can visualize as the story continues. Diverse characters with their own problems and an ongoing investigation that keeps you intrigued throughout the story.
Thank you BookSirens and the author for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2020
This story involves so many characters and story threads that it really does take some time to figure out what is going on. The characters are very realistic, and the book includes a number of side plots that both add interest and create an emotional attachment. The style of writing is easy to read, but at times I felt I was grinding through a lot of chaff to find a grain of knowledge. I don't want this to sound negative because I really liked the book. It had a very satisfying ending. It is worth the effort to read.
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January 22, 2020Basset has really made a mark in writing his 2nd fiction novel. He captures the moments of pain as well as victories such as the good the bad and the ugly. With his deep emotional context puts you right in the middle of the story. There’s never a dull moment, a definite page turner from start to finish. A hard to put down thriller that keeps you in suspense and lets your imagination come alive.
March 22, 2020
I was very excited to start reading this but as I started reading I just wasn't into that much any more. That's why I'm giving a four star 🌟🌟🌟🌟 instead of a five star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟review. I felt bad for the kids and what they went through and I feel like I learned a few things about how the mafia runs by reading this. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 12, 2021
A very intense and noir thriller that keeps you up all night.
January 22, 2020
Basset has really made a mark in writing his 2nd fiction novel. He captures the moments of pain as well as victories such as the good the bad and the ugly. With his deep emotional context puts you right in the middle of the story. There’s never a dull moment, a definite page turner from start to finish. A hard to put down thriller that keeps you in suspense and lets your imagination come alive.
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