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Red Dog Conspiracy #5

The Ten of Spades: Part 5 of the Red Dog Conspiracy

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Be careful what you wish for …

After eleven years trapped in the Spadros crime syndicate, 23-year-old private eye Jacqueline Spadros is an independent woman, free to run her investigation business.

But her problems are only beginning.

Deeply in debt, Jacqui is in danger from both the rogue Spadros men calling themselves “The Ten of Spades” and the ruthless Red Dog Gang — who may be one and the same.

Jacqui is determined to find Black Maria, the key to the identity of the Red Dog Gang’s secretive leader. To survive long enough to do that, Jacqui needs a paying case.

The one she's offered may put her in the most danger of all …


The Ten of Spades is part 5 of a 13-part serial novel:

The Jacq of Spades
The Queen of Diamonds
The Ace of Clubs
The King of Hearts
The Ten of Spades <- you are here
The Five of Diamonds (Coming October 2020)


From the author:

Each book builds on the information presented in the book before it. Because of this, I strongly urge you to start with The Jacq of Spades, and read the first four books in this series before reading The Ten of Spades.

If you'd like a quick way to catch up on the series, the Red Dog Conspiracy Act 1 box set contains the first three books in ebook or audio format.


All caught up with Jacqui and ready to go?

Scroll up, click on the button to order, and continue the journey!

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2019

2 people are currently reading
7 people want to read

About the author

Patricia Loofbourrow

29 books407 followers
Patricia Loofbourrow was born in southern California and currently lives in Oklahoma. Learning to read at the age of three, she grew up on Heinlein, Bradbury, and Asimov, and found at an early age that she loved science.

Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology with a minor in Chemistry from Cal Poly Pomona then an MD from Rush University, Dr. Loofbourrow practiced family medicine for ten years before becoming a stay at home mom in 2000. After leaving medicine, Patricia Loofbourrow ran one of the first “ask a doctor” patient education websites from 2000-2004.

Patty wrote her first novel during the 2005 National Novel Writing Month, going on to write eight novels, four novellas, and well over 100 short stories, mostly speculative fiction, before choosing to self-publish. She has been a long-time member of the Forward Motion Forums, and was the founder of Fifty Word Fiction on DeviantArt. She has also worked as a freelance non-fiction writer and editor since 2000, and currently runs an informational website on edible landscaping.

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Julian White.
1,715 reviews8 followers
September 16, 2019
epub on Kobo - 228 pages; beta then ARC

Part 5 of a projected 13, so we are a little over a third of the way through. Not entirely sure how new readers will find the complexities - I think it's quite clear but I have the advantage of being up to date. Jacqui Spadros, wife to the Heir of the Spadros Family - one of four who effectively control the domed city of Bridges - struggles to maintain her independence after leaving her husband. Following the trial (which is the subject of Part 4) Jacqui is finding it difficult to gain cases to investigate, her only real skill. Infighting between the Families as well as dissent in the ranks of the Spadros men mean that she is at risk - from several sides, not least the mysterious Red Dog Gang who seem to be targeting her...

A complex story set in this future, post-Catastrophe world. We are gradually learning more about the wider Mercan Federation as well as Bridges itself. During this chapter we follow Jacqui as she seeks a missing young woman, as well as tracking the Red Dogs.

Described variously as 'neo-noir, steampunk, dystopian' the book is all that with a flavour of Dickens' Victoriana. It is a most enjoyable read, as clues are slowly revealed and we piece together what is happening.

Thoroughly recommended - as are the previous books in the series, together with the extra books dealing with the history of the world and Bridges, as well as background to several characters.
Profile Image for Dawn W.
158 reviews
August 19, 2019
A Magnificent Ride!

I got this eBook free from the author.

This book is the fifth in a fantastic series by Patricia Loufbourrow. It is a genre I call steampunk noir. Offering the best of film noir detective stories set in a post-apocalyptic retro-futuristic steampunk city. Woman detective, Jaqui Spadros is looking for work after her life to a drastic turn after her murder acquittal. Ostracized by the public, she deals with criminal gangs and an unknown mastermind manipulating events from behind the scenes. All elements are superbly wrapped and entangled in this story.

I love the detective elements of the story, particularly the gritty feel to the novel. The operation of the criminal element and the scandals in the city are very historically inspired with a high level of accuracy that allowed this retired police officer to suspend her disbelief. Think of the “payola” scandals and early gang-law enforcement relations in 1880’s Chicago or New York.

Characters are well developed with lots of dimension. Truly a gripping story that involves the reader in every twist and turn. This is an exciting page-turner that I simply could not put down. Just when you think, you have everything figured out; another twist turns the reader’s assumptions upside down.

Profile Image for Holly Lenz.
928 reviews2 followers
October 1, 2019
If you like likable characters, simple plots, quick reads, and happy endings, this is NOT the book series for you. If you’re looking for a standalone book, this one’s going to leave you hopefully lost.

But if you want a carefully crafted book series full of twists and turns and intriguing characters with a noir feel in a steampunk setting, then you’ll love this series. Just do yourself a favor- start with the first book.

The Ten of Spades has more twists and clues and leaves the reader with lots to think about. I’m finding I like the main character less and less as the series goes, but that does not mean the books are not terrific. It says more about the author’s attention to detail and the crafting of rounded characters. Jaquie is a very complicated character who while intending to be a good person often acts very selfishly and who’s actions cause unintended consequences. I find the more I read these books, the more attached to the characters I become, and the more her actions affect me.

I received an advance copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Profile Image for Sophie Koufes.
1,994 reviews27 followers
March 10, 2024
The Ten of Spades: Part 5 of the Red Dog Conspiracy is a complex post-castrophe neo-noir steampunk novel you will want to sink your teeth into. A writing style composition that reflects a organic and well balanced novel. The detective elements, criminal elements and scandals in the city offer a exhuberate aggregate of suspense and sustainable mystery. The characters are well fleshed out with amplitude of dimension. A gripping page turner with a fullhouse of twists. Looking forward to reading the next novel in this captivating series.


Narrator Machelle Williams did a fantastic performance. Her inflection is exactly how I would picture Jacquline’s character. Her pace and energy is just perfect. I love her performance with all the books in this amazing series.
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews26 followers
December 7, 2019
O my goodness!What I just read, or rather devoured almost in one sit! This story was fast-paced, full of hints, secrets, and ideas that ere coming to my mind all the way while reading but... it kept surprising me all the way.
Jacqui has a lot to learn this time on her own, but hat will be the price of it? And will she manage to stay out of harm way, or this will end when Ten of Spades will decide to go for her?
Nothing is sure, none can be fully trusted all the time, so what will happen when some cards will be shown, but others will come with even more secrets that made this even more twisted and complicated!
I LOVE the whole series for its complexity, plot, and climate!
Profile Image for Amys Bookshelf Reviews.
880 reviews69 followers
July 9, 2024
Patricia Loofbourrow writes a magnificent and mysterious tale with The Ten of Spades

In The Ten of Spades, the reader is reintroduced to Jacqueline Spadros aka Jacqui, who is a finally-free independent woman, who runs her own investigation business. The Ten of Spades is part of the Red Dog Conspiracy series, and this is volume five. I am a big fan of Patricia Loofbourrow and love reading whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. I love how the Red Dog Conspiracy has the play on a deck of card. I know there are more in the series, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. Patricia Loofbourrow has a great imagination. Jacqui is determined and tenacious, and determined to get the job done no matter what. I love how it is written in Jacqui's perspective, and her perspective is always interesting, especially as she shares whatever situation she is in. The author not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. This story is another attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. A reader can get lost in the story as it's thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. I just love, love, love this story, and its characters, especially Jacqui, who is definitely unforgettable. The Ten of Spades is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
12.7k reviews189 followers
July 24, 2020
Another great. Full of suspense and action. Jacqui can run her own business but unfortunately she’s in danger. No stopping until you find out what happens.
Profile Image for Laurie Robertson.
883 reviews19 followers
February 27, 2025
Life is definitely complicated for Jacqui and despite her best attempts to get to the root cause of the issue it always seems to evade her. Yet another intriguing episode in the Red Dog Conspiracy.
Profile Image for Clabe Polk.
Author 22 books16 followers
January 21, 2020
Jacqui…Jacqui…you just can’t stay out of trouble! Not that staying out of trouble is possible in a place like Bridges where each crime family is competing with the other three and it appears an as yet unidentified conspirator aims to topple the whole social system into chaos, and Jacqui Spadros is caught squarely in the middle. Of course, Jacqui, who loves solving mysteries and who is on the outs with her husband and her infamous father-in-law anyway, wouldn’t have it any other way. The danger excites her, also scares her, but not as much as her father-in-law and some of his counterparts in the other families. Still, fewer worries about money would be welcome. Since the trial (The King of Hearts) she has been unemployed, seeking detective work, and “robbing Peter to pay Paul” much to the Spadros family’s social discomfort. But now she has a new client. Can she locate her client’s daughter before it’s too late?
After all, people she knows are dying at a faster rate than ever. She is being pressured in a direction she does not want to go; and overwhelmed with unanswered questions. But who is pressuring her? Who is Master Rainbow really? Who is the mysterious “Black Maria” and what is her relation to Jacqui’s new client’s daughter? Who has turned a faction of Spadros family men against the Spadros family? Is Jacqui’s friend, Joseph Kerr, not only missing but a criminal as well? What secrets do the Diamonds continue to hide?
In my opinion, The Ten of Spades gets off to a slow start as the complexities of the backstory are unwound for new readers, and for those like me with faulty memories. Once it begins moving, it moves quickly with many twists, ducks and feints. Readers may wonder how a book can change from mental turmoil to active turmoil in a page or two. But eyes will stay glued to the page waiting for the next shoe to fall.
The Ten of Spades is a fine addition to the Red Dog Conspiracy Series; one guaranteed to satisfy Steampunk, mystery and whodunit fans everywhere.
Profile Image for Margaret Fisk.
Author 21 books38 followers
January 2, 2020
Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over

The Red Dog Conspiracy is a conspiracy that spans many books and about which we learn more with each one. The Ten of Spades (Chapter 5) is the latest and one written for existing fans. I say this because a lot happens, there are several smaller mysteries solved, and the conspiracy’s scope becomes clearer, but there isn’t really an independent story. Still, what draws me in are the personal moments, the characters, and the sense of place, all of which were present from the very noir detective scene setting in the beginning to the card lingo used throughout.

Jacqui is true to herself in that she’s impulsive, selfish, and occasionally wise. These characteristics are tempered by what her alcoholism drove her to, the cravings of an addict, and the trail of destroyed lives and bodies she’s left in her wake. I call her selfish more because she doesn’t consider the impact of her actions on others. What appeals about her is how she’ll go to any length to help those who hire her or even just ask for her assistance. She’s a good person in a strange situation with a horrible past and an upbringing that blinds her to the reality of those around her for all she believes herself one of them.

This book ended on a powerful note even without a major, independent plotline, so it’s odd to say the section after the initial beginning was slow and I struggled a bit. The book starts out reminding readers of what has happened as Jacqui reviews the case and reminisces about what has come before. Sometimes this worked for me, especially how the past connects into her present, but other times it didn’t. Then, about 45% of the way in, everything clicks together in a single scene, and I had trouble putting the book down when I had to. I include this to warn you, but also to point out it’s worth the effort if your reaction is like mine because good things come to those who wait.

If you’ve been following my reviews of the series, you’ll know I have an issue with how Jacqui treats Joseph Kerr and Tony. I’ll say only how her reasons are clearer and more grounded in this book while she’s finally starting to see some of the things I picked up on a while back. But then, I’m a suspicious sort. I’ve found Jacqui puts together some pieces of the puzzle quickly, and others she notices but then either dismisses or forgets if she realizes their significance at all.

This is less a detective series, despite her being a private investigator, than a social, cultural exploration of a place built on the ashes of environmental collapse after it’s been taken over by the ignorant who saw opportunity where they did not understand the whole. It’s fascinating and populated by complex characters, so I keep coming back and looking forward to seeing what next will be thrown in Jacqui’s way.

P.S. I received this ARC from the author in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Melissa.
84 reviews
October 2, 2019
Great 5th installment of a steampunk/dystopian/noire series and a quick read! In this book, Jacqui, having finally made public her work as a P.I. during a grueling trial, seeks to continue her detective work in order to get by. Yet, in a city quadrant run by a family she tried to leave, she finds this more than difficult. Still a case comes before her that may have connections to the mysterious Red Dog Gang.

This one definitely intrigued me with its plot twists and characterization. While you do see a new dimension of Jacqui as she continues to struggle living alone (with minimal staff), I especially liked learning more about Jon Diamond, who is one of my favorite characters in the series. I also liked the added world building elements involving the Dealers' religion in this one. While Kitty and Jacqui mention it some in books 2 and 3 and it has a focus in the The Alcatraz Coup prequel, I felt this needed more discussion in earlier books of the main series. And now we have it!

At first I was a little unsure about the chapter or so that Jacqui recaps the details of all the events related (or possibly related) to the Red Dog Gang conspiracy, but in the end, I liked it. This series has a lot of different threads in its mystery, and the previous 4 only do minor recap as needed. I am not sure I would want the character to do this in all the remaining novels, but book 5 is a good place for it.

Once again, I highly recommend this series to anyone interested in noire-style mystery and dystopian fiction with a steampunk feel.
Profile Image for Beverly Laude.
2,261 reviews44 followers
October 7, 2019
Our heroine, Jacqueline Spadros, has finally gotten out from under the rule of the Spadros family and is now free to run her investigation business. But, is she truly free or are her troubles just beginning?

The author, Patricia Loofbourrow, has built a very complex world in this series and the characters are equally complex. Her writing is very descriptive and really draws you into this world. You can almost feel the tension and see the surroundings as you read this book. The more you read of this series, the more you need to know.

If you are looking for a quick, standalone book, this is not the book for you. But, if you enjoy world building, complex plots with undertones of the Mafia, steampunk and noir, start from the beginning of the series and let this world grow on you. You won't be disappointed!

I was given the chance to read this book by the author and chose to review it.
Profile Image for Hope Gerhardstein.
507 reviews
October 6, 2019
This series is different than anything I have read before and I am definitely enjoying it. Jacqui is an independent women trying to survive in Bridges, a strange place with 4 quadrants ruled by the various cards. She is trying to play the hands she is dealt while scrimping by on her meager pay as a private investigator. There is family drama, danger, murder, kidnapping, love and loss. No one can be trusted! Each book in the Red Dog Conspiracy gives more clues to what is happening. Well written story, but I would recommend starting with the 1st book in this series or you might be lost. I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for K.C. Sivils.
Author 41 books216 followers
October 7, 2019
The fifth installment of the Red Dog Conspiracy series was a bit convoluted. If I had not read the first four installments, this one would have not made much sense.

Having said that, as well as having read the first four episodes, the story is an intriguing one that won't let the reader set the book down.

The author has created a world I can now visualize and mentally find my way around as if I were one of the characters.

As a whole, the series works both as a mystery thriller and a steampunk story. I recommend reading the books in the series in order but they are well worth the effort.
Profile Image for The Mysterious Reader.
3,589 reviews66 followers
October 20, 2019
I’m a huge fan of Patricia Loofbourrow’s Red Dog Conspiracy novels and I’ve been looking forward to getting Part 5, The Ten of Spa. Well, it was worth the wait. This book is quite simply superb. Well written, with a great plot, a perfect cast - and the perfect world-building that defines the series. Jacqui may finally be free of the Spadros family but that’s not stopping her from looking for the Black Maria , and ultimately the head of the Red Dog Gang. And the the rogue “The Ten of Spades” group isn’t gonna stop her. Totally exciting. Totally fun. Totally what I look for and easily worth five stars.
Profile Image for Roger.
5,648 reviews28 followers
October 13, 2019
The Ten of Spades is my sixth read from author Patricia Loofbourrow. An enjoyable, detailed, well-written book in which many questions are answered, details divulged, with memorable, engaging characters. Captivating, spine-tingling, suspense-building read, I'll be reading more from this author and I look forward to the next book in this series. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018)
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews

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