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It is the Spring of 1943. Jack Ryder, a New York City private detective. gets a surprising request—from a nun. Ryder must solve a murder to help save Jewish children in Europe from the Nazis. Confronting a vicious Nazi killer who has come to America, Ryder finds himself trying to rescue some children himself.

This historical thriller also probes Ryder’s personal struggles. A lonely widower, Ryder is driven to help people but struggles to help himself.

Ryder’s world is filled with suspense, death, and the dark shadows of Greenwich Village.

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2020

22 people are currently reading
29 people want to read

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Lawrence J. Epstein

74 books41 followers

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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Profile Image for Rachel Kester.
487 reviews8 followers
December 26, 2020
As the third novel in The Jack Ryder Mystery Series, readers will time-travel back to 1943. Jack Ryder, a detective, is off to help save Jewish children from a notorious Nazi by finding his accomplices in the U.S. to get vital information out of them. As he tours New York City attempting to find their hiding spots, Ryder learns that all isn’t that it seems, and that things are much more dangerous in the city than they appear. He must quickly learn where these evil characters are and how he can save the children.

Epstein writes with a captivating style that will make putting this book down difficult to do. It’s filled with shocking plot twists and well-developed characters that make this a memorable read. If you’re on the search for a unique historical mystery, definitely consider this one.
Profile Image for Darryl Terry.
Author 6 books11 followers
December 9, 2020
Set in New York during the Second World War, Jack Ryder is a PI just as tough and streetwise as the best of them, but with an unusual difference that makes him unique.

Jack Ryder is a private investigator with a difference. Tough, and streetwise, he carries a gun and is similar to many of the traditional private investigators of the typical image, except for a few things. He drinks coffee or lemonade and loves things like chocolate cake. He also has a philanthropic side to him and regularly donates money to the poor, or, for that matter, anyone in need. Set in Manhattan during the Great War, this is a gripping and action-packed thriller that had me glued to the pages. Despite his tough exterior, Jack has a soft and compassionate side to him, mixed with a healthy dose of sarcastic cynicism, which makes the story compulsively absorbing. Set in the period that it is, the ominous shadow of the war is palpable throughout the plot, and the menace of the Nazis is an unpleasant reality. The compassionate side of Jack and his unique style of interacting with characters from all walks of life, adds an extra dimension to this thriller that I found particularly engaging and I am eagerly anticipating reading the other books in the series as well.
Profile Image for Pegboard.
1,823 reviews9 followers
December 16, 2020
The Ryder Code is the third book in Lawrence J. Epstein’s Jack Ryder Mysteries. This historical thriller takes you back to a dark time when the vilest man preyed on the Jews, Adolf Hitler. Jewish Orphans need a champion that is where the timid Sister Grace steps in. A widower has offered her millions of dollars for her cause, if she could find someone who could uncover the killer of his only child. They put private Investigator Jack Ryder to the task where others have failed. This isn’t just about the chase or justice, but the lives of thousands of innocent children are at stake. Can Ryder hunt down this calculated killer for the children?

Lawrence J. Epstein has produced another great crime thriller through his character, Jack Ryder. The Ryder Code continues to include characters we have met before and love. Ryder has compassion for the unloved and down-hearted is refreshing. The author weaves you through a complex web of mystery and suspense, keeping you glued to the pages. His descriptions of situations, characters, and overall mood of this horrific time in history are gripping until the end.   
Profile Image for Gary Eddey.
4 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2020
The Ryder Code, by Lawrence Epstein.

This is the third in the Jack Ryder Mysteries book series. It is extremely well written and edited, and quite consistent with the author's previous books, fiction and nonfiction, many of which I’ve read. To avoid spoilers I will not discuss the plot, but I am hopeful Epstein will continue Jack Ryder well into the future.
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Some authors in the thriller/adventure category struggle to serve a moral purpose. Many writers think it’s not important. Not so with the Jack Ryder. Like other great contemporary crime fiction writers who address social issues and moral imperatives – I’m thinking Don Winslow and Denise Mina – Epstein nails it as he brings the reader through numerous twists and turns to an ending that is a complete surprise. Through masterful dialogue Ryder shows what his purpose is, and along the way introduces us to highly believable characters that struggle in their own way, and ultimately we are led to a very believable ending.

Each of the Ryder novels stand alone, but I'd recommend reading all three.
Profile Image for Valery.
1,501 reviews57 followers
December 4, 2020
The Ryder Code (Jack Ryder #3) by Lawrence J. Epstein is a well-written noir thriller set in New York City and features Jack Ryder, a private investigator; the year is 1943. To his surprise, while sitting in a diner, a nun walks in and asks him for help. This of course is not an everyday occurrence, but after he hears her story he agrees to take on the mission. Ryder is tasked with solving a murder that will help save and rescue Jewish children being hurt by the Nazis. While a short book, this is a well-developed plot, full of relatable characters, with solid and realistic dialogue. The book engages you right from the beginning scene, and you feel you get to know Ryder as a mere mortal, full of conflicting emotions, and not just a great investigator. He has his struggles, but always endeavors to do the right thing. This is a fine historical thriller with a substantial lead character. A great addition to an eminently readable series, this book is highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jessica.
2,332 reviews23 followers
December 21, 2020
This is the third installment in an action-packed series. Jack Ryder, a Detective in 1943 New York is approached by a Nun by name of Sister Grace. She has been organizing a network to help Jewish orphans and protect them from the horrors of the Nazi Reich. Sister Grace wants Jack to help her solve the murder of the benefactor’s daughter and how it all connects back to the Jewish Orphans. Jack, determined to help others, struggles with his own demons and therefor throws himself into his work. He fights against time as the Nazi’s are onto Sister Grace and her operations and want to eliminate her.
A fast-paced historical thriller, this book is in the same vein as the first two. Meaning it is very well written and researched and the characters seem to jump off the pages. I enjoyed reading this book and would certainly grab the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Pearl.
534 reviews7 followers
December 23, 2020
I enjoyed reading The Ryder Code by Lawrence J. Epstein. The story of this book has its unique genre that I haven't encountered before. The book is centered around the main character Jack Ryder, a private detective assigned in New York City. The story was set in springtime in the year 1943 and it all started when Sister Grace, a nun and a leader of a secret religious group, approached him and asked him to solve a murder to help save the Jewish children in Europe from the Nazis.

I loved the entirety of the book especially the fact that it has a different kind of storyline. The characters are likable as well and they develop remarkably. Perhaps there was something missing in the writing style and I think it needs better style to keep it more engaging, but otherwise the story was great and I enjoyed it.
871 reviews28 followers
December 7, 2020
Author Lawrence J. Epstein has already accustomed us to thrilling mysteries with amazing characters and in-depth plots, and this is not the exception! The Ryder Code (The Jack Ryder Mysteries Book 3) is a really good suspense story that left me on the edge of the seat with every turn of the page.

In this third book, private detective Jack Ryder must solve a murder to help save Jewish children from the Nazis. I like this lonely character since the first book of the series, and in every book, I get to know him better, as he faces his internal struggles and scars. This “modern hero” is particularly well developed in this book.

All in all, I enjoyed this reading very much and I will definitely recommend it to my friends
Profile Image for Caro Rey.
261 reviews6 followers
December 11, 2020
A great thriller to read

Set in spring of 1943 in New York, Jack Ryder is contacted by a nun who brings a new job for him. At first he is reluctant but as soon as he realizes what it’s about he accepts and takes on the job of bringing justice to Jewish children from being hurt by nazis. 
This book is quite the intriguing and thrilling tale. It is the third book of the Jack Ryder Mystery series. I’m not much of a mystery reader but this book caught my attention and I quite enjoyed it. 
Author Lawrence J. Epstein has created an outstanding book that is easy to read and allows the reader to venture into the dangers of the the plot and live a little through Ryders quest. I recommend this book to mystery lovers as it is capturing and vivid.
Profile Image for CarlitasFox.
1,469 reviews28 followers
December 11, 2020
An excellent novel!

When it comes to detective stories, this book is an excellent example of it. I read "The Ryder Code" which is the 3rd part of Jack Ryder Mysteries. Again, I was mesmerized by the plot and also by Lawrence J. Epstein´s writing style. I think that it is very compelling and enjoyable at the same time.
The protagonist has a special request and he will do his best to solve that mysterious murder. Throughout the reading, I felt inside the scenario and the main character´s mind. What I liked the most about him is the way he connects every trace he finds in his way and then the way he commits with his job. I thoroughly recommend it! It is the third book that I read from the author and it won´t be the last one.

Profile Image for Guy Wheatley.
Author 8 books19 followers
December 3, 2020
This was a quick read. I finished it in one day. But it was an enjoyable read. A Film Noire detective tale with Nazis. I like that the protagonist, while somewhat broken, still had faith in humanity, a moral code, and an unshakable determination to leave the world better than he found it. He fought his troubles with good works rather than alcohol.
The supporting characters were equally enjoyable. Most were people who had been hurt, but were determined to get back to a productive and fulfilling life.
This is a pleasant read that will leave the reader with a warm glow. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Melissa Hernandez.
412 reviews17 followers
December 13, 2020
This story was a very fun one to read! This is the third book in a series, but you can read this one by itself. This story is very well written, and the pacing is very good. Jack Ryder is a great private investigator and will do anything to get to the bottom of the story. He doesn't give up on solving the mystery. I was a little nervous on the setting of this story - 1943 and New York - because how do you make sure you don't cross insensitive lines? I can tell you the author never did. Jack Ryder never gives up on saving Jewish children and defeating the bad guys. He believes in the good and wants to do good. It's definitely a story I couldn't put down, so I definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for Santiago Flores.
1,039 reviews11 followers
December 14, 2020
Set in the past, in the year 1943, this novel tells the story of a private detective and a case he has to solve. The plot is very good and mysterious. The writer got me guessing what will happen next almost at every turn of the page, luckily my guesses were not right, so it shows that the story is not predictable.
The narrative is very good. It has a good pace, neither fast nor slow, but as it is a short novel I read it in a few days. It is well written, suspenseful and has very well portrayed characters, for these reasons it is a read that I would certainly recommend reading.
636 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2020
The Ryder Code

This is another good entry in the series. I like the main and secondary characters. The research done to describe the time period is very well done. It feels like the mid 40’s in New York City. Good plot that shows how Ryder really feels and functions. It’s good to see the good guys win. Recommended.
130 reviews
August 6, 2021
Another brilliant addition of the Jack Ryder series

Jack Ryder has another unforgettable client as a Catholic nun comes seeking his help in smuggling Jewish children into the U.S. To escape the horrors of the Nazi Regime. To get the financial help she needs, Ryder must first solve the senseless murder of the donors daughter to enable the donation to be made.
Profile Image for DeeDee Stone.
49 reviews1 follower
April 13, 2021
Is Jack Ryder For Real?

I would love to know.
He's a hero. A good man.
I look forward to reading more Jack Ryder stories.
Profile Image for Susan.
7,277 reviews69 followers
March 9, 2021
Spring 1943 A request comes from a Nun for Jack Ryder, P.I. or Fixer as he prefers, and if he succeeds the nun will receive money to help Jewish children in Europe. The money would come from Adam Lonigan and only if Ryder can solve the murder of his daughter Rebecca.
An interesting historical mystery
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews

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