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Detective Margaret Nolan #1
Deep into the Dark
Sam Easton—a true survivor—is home from Afghanistan, trying to rebuild a life in his hometown of LA. Separated from his wife, bartending and therapy sessions are what occupy his days and nights. When friend and colleague Melody Traeger is beaten by her boyfriend, she turns to Sam for help. When the boyfriend turns up dead the next day, a hard case like Sam is the perfect suspect.
But LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan, whose brother recently died serving overseas, is sympathetic to Sam's troubles, and can't quite see him as a killer. She's more interested in the secrets Melody might be keeping and the developments in another murder case on the other side of town.
But LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan, whose brother recently died serving overseas, is sympathetic to Sam's troubles, and can't quite see him as a killer. She's more interested in the secrets Melody might be keeping and the developments in another murder case on the other side of town.
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 12, 2021
713 people are currently reading
13129 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Tracy
24 books1,783 followersPJ Tracy is the pseudonym of mother-daughter writing duo P.J. and Traci Lambrecht, winners of the Anthony, Barry, Gumshoe, and Minnesota Book Awards. Their ten novels in the Monkeewrench series, MONKEEWRENCH, LIVE BAIT, DEAD RUN, SNOW BLIND, SHOOT TO THRILL, OFF THE GRID, THE SIXTH IDEA, NOTHING STAYS BURIED, THE GUILTY DEAD, and ICE COLD HEART have become national and international bestsellers. PJ passed away in December 2016, and Traci started a new series set in Los Angeles, featuring Detective Margaret Nolan. DEEP INTO THE DARK, DESOLATION CANYON, THE DEVIL YOU KNOW, and CITY OF SECRETS are available anywhere you buy your books!
THE DEEPEST CUT, the eleventh Monkeewrench novel will be released on September 9th, 2025.
Learn more about PJ Tracy at pjtracy.com
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PJTracyAuthor/
Look them up on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/pjtracy.com
THE DEEPEST CUT, the eleventh Monkeewrench novel will be released on September 9th, 2025.
Learn more about PJ Tracy at pjtracy.com
Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PJTracyAuthor/
Look them up on Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/pjtracy.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 668 reviews
July 22, 2024
Deep into the Dark (Detective Margaret Nolan #1)
by P.J. Tracy, narrated by Abby Craden
Since I have a chance to read the third book in this series, I'm listening to the first two book because I can't skip books. Even though this is called the Detective Margaret Nolan series, she doesn't play a huge role in the story. That part goes to Sam Easton, a veteran of Afghanistan who is suffering from both physical and mental wounds due to the war. Despite therapy he's plagued by memories of what happened there and the ghoulish nightmares of the team that he lost when he was so badly injured.
Sam does have support from his mom, therapist, and his coworker at the bar. His wife is sort of there for him in a way but his inability to move on from the past has run her away so his marriage is on the rocks. Things aren't getting better when he's all the sudden surrounded by murder which is where Detective Nolan comes on the scene. She's a new detective, being brought along by her seasoned partner. With a serial killer case already being worked, it looks as if there is another killer on the loose.
We don't really get to know Detective Nolan in this story as Sam takes the spotlight. I'm happy to see he'll make some kind of appearance in the next two books since he's a very likeable character. I assume we'll get to know Nolan better down the line, she's not so bad herself. The narration in this first book literally hurt my ears. Way too much vocal fry for the men but it seems to not be so strong in the second book, which I have already started.
Pub Jan 12, 2021 by Macmillan Audio
by P.J. Tracy, narrated by Abby Craden
Since I have a chance to read the third book in this series, I'm listening to the first two book because I can't skip books. Even though this is called the Detective Margaret Nolan series, she doesn't play a huge role in the story. That part goes to Sam Easton, a veteran of Afghanistan who is suffering from both physical and mental wounds due to the war. Despite therapy he's plagued by memories of what happened there and the ghoulish nightmares of the team that he lost when he was so badly injured.
Sam does have support from his mom, therapist, and his coworker at the bar. His wife is sort of there for him in a way but his inability to move on from the past has run her away so his marriage is on the rocks. Things aren't getting better when he's all the sudden surrounded by murder which is where Detective Nolan comes on the scene. She's a new detective, being brought along by her seasoned partner. With a serial killer case already being worked, it looks as if there is another killer on the loose.
We don't really get to know Detective Nolan in this story as Sam takes the spotlight. I'm happy to see he'll make some kind of appearance in the next two books since he's a very likeable character. I assume we'll get to know Nolan better down the line, she's not so bad herself. The narration in this first book literally hurt my ears. Way too much vocal fry for the men but it seems to not be so strong in the second book, which I have already started.
Pub Jan 12, 2021 by Macmillan Audio
February 14, 2021
Hmmm... As a big fan of Monkeewrench series, I may honestly say that I was expecting something more earth shattering, mind blowing from the author !
It was still a great start with complex storyline and relatable, well-developed, layered, interesting characters and action packed, moving, balanced pace writing. So you need to start this series without comparing it with previous works of the author for not being disappointed or raise the bar of your higher expectations.
We’re introduced two new characters in this book. Sam Easton,a veteran, survivor, returned back from Afghanistan to have a fresh start, divorced, bartender, joining to therapy sessions, still fighting with his past demons, carrying both psychical and mental scars.
LAPD detective Margaret Nolan also has dramatic past and invisible scars, taking a murder case and prime suspect is Sam who might have murdered his close friend Melody’s boyfriend because he was abusing her and Melody needed his help.
Margaret also lost her brother at overseas so she can easily relate with Sam and from the beginning she never thinks he is the killer. Then another murder case occurs at the other side of the town, changing the direction of investigation.
After I read the blurb, I thought this book was about Sam and Margaret but Sam and Melody who conduct their own investigation together to clear their names and find the real killer of the abusive boyfriend stole the show.
Thankfully I liked both of the characters from the beginning so I enjoyed to read their heart throbbing, intriguing, twisty adventure.
This is not the best beginning book of new series but it has still promising potential. I still want to give a chance to the upcoming books.
The killer’s identity was so obvious from the beginning which bothered me a little but character and story development, pacing were still well-crafted.
So I cut some points and rounding up 3.5 stars to 4 brand new mystery/ crime thriller series stars!
Fingers crossed. I hope the next book will be so much better!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minatour Books for sharing this exciting arc with me in exchange my honest review.
It was still a great start with complex storyline and relatable, well-developed, layered, interesting characters and action packed, moving, balanced pace writing. So you need to start this series without comparing it with previous works of the author for not being disappointed or raise the bar of your higher expectations.
We’re introduced two new characters in this book. Sam Easton,a veteran, survivor, returned back from Afghanistan to have a fresh start, divorced, bartender, joining to therapy sessions, still fighting with his past demons, carrying both psychical and mental scars.
LAPD detective Margaret Nolan also has dramatic past and invisible scars, taking a murder case and prime suspect is Sam who might have murdered his close friend Melody’s boyfriend because he was abusing her and Melody needed his help.
Margaret also lost her brother at overseas so she can easily relate with Sam and from the beginning she never thinks he is the killer. Then another murder case occurs at the other side of the town, changing the direction of investigation.
After I read the blurb, I thought this book was about Sam and Margaret but Sam and Melody who conduct their own investigation together to clear their names and find the real killer of the abusive boyfriend stole the show.
Thankfully I liked both of the characters from the beginning so I enjoyed to read their heart throbbing, intriguing, twisty adventure.
This is not the best beginning book of new series but it has still promising potential. I still want to give a chance to the upcoming books.
The killer’s identity was so obvious from the beginning which bothered me a little but character and story development, pacing were still well-crafted.
So I cut some points and rounding up 3.5 stars to 4 brand new mystery/ crime thriller series stars!
Fingers crossed. I hope the next book will be so much better!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press/ Minatour Books for sharing this exciting arc with me in exchange my honest review.
November 19, 2020
It’s always interesting when a beloved author starts a new series. Will it live up to existing works? In this case, the answer is yes, although it’s a very different style of writing than the Monkeewrench series. Deep into the Dark gives us LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan. Sharp, young, recently promoted. Also an army brat who lost her brother in Afghanistan. “RHD was still an old boy’s club, and if you didn’t have the right equipment between your legs you had to have the guts to stand your ground.”
This is a very character driven story. My joy came from being invested in everyone’s story, not just Nolan’s. Sam, a vet suffering from PTSD and physical pain was especially compelling. In fact, while the series is named after Nolan, it’s really Sam’s story. After he helps a friend/co-worker, he becomes a possible suspect in the murder of her abusive boyfriend. Then a second murder follows that hits even closer to home.
The book isn’t fast paced, but kept my interest throughout. I did correctly guess the murderer but it was still interesting to see how it all came together.
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
This is a very character driven story. My joy came from being invested in everyone’s story, not just Nolan’s. Sam, a vet suffering from PTSD and physical pain was especially compelling. In fact, while the series is named after Nolan, it’s really Sam’s story. After he helps a friend/co-worker, he becomes a possible suspect in the murder of her abusive boyfriend. Then a second murder follows that hits even closer to home.
The book isn’t fast paced, but kept my interest throughout. I did correctly guess the murderer but it was still interesting to see how it all came together.
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
April 5, 2021
Starting a new series after having huge success with a former series and the Monkeywrench crew, is sure to be challenging. This new series highlights the seedy underbelly of LA and features two new characters. Sam Easton is a military veteran suffering from severe PTSD and Detective Maggie Nolan whom had a brother who died in service to his country. They are brought together after a series of murders and the militaryy connection helps forms a bond between the pair.
I found these characters interesting, the plot fast paced but I have not quite yet connected totally with the pair. Though I found, at least so far, Sam more intriguing than Dolan. I do intend to read the next entry in this series because I am curious to where and how Tracy will develop these characters. For now, I'll just say, I thought this was good and reserve further judgement.
ARC from Netgalley.
I found these characters interesting, the plot fast paced but I have not quite yet connected totally with the pair. Though I found, at least so far, Sam more intriguing than Dolan. I do intend to read the next entry in this series because I am curious to where and how Tracy will develop these characters. For now, I'll just say, I thought this was good and reserve further judgement.
ARC from Netgalley.
January 9, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, P. J. Tracy , St. Martin’s Press, and Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
After thoroughly enjoying the development of the Monkeewrench series, I was eager to see P.J. Tracy return with a new publication. A standalone, or perhaps a germinating series, this book differs greatly from the cold streets of Minneapolis. Rather, it’s a hot mystery set inside LA, with a killer who targets women and a recent Afghan vet whose battle with PTSD is one that is not going well. Tracy offers up a quick mystery with some interesting development, though Deep Into the Dark fails to resonate for me yet, as the Monkeewrench novels did repeatedly.
Sam Easton is back in the States, after a harrowing time serving his country overseas. What he saw and experienced in Afghanistan is enough to leave any man with wounds, something Sam does not lack. However, it is the marks that cannot be traced with a finger that cause Sam so many issues. His PTSD is severe, causing him horrible nightmares and blackouts that no amount of prescribed medication or visits to his psychiatrist can aid.
Sam’s taken up a job tending bar while he tries to piece his life back together., The city’s abuzz with a string of killings, as young women are found brutality killed in out of the way fleabag motels. While the LAPD are on the case, it’s a giant mystery as to where they ought to begin.
LAPD Detectives Margaret Nolan and Al Crawford are tossed the case, though they are slow to make any progress. After a few more bodies are found, one Sam Easton becomes a person of interest, as his ex-wife is one of those left slain. While Easton eschews his innocence, offering up a flimsy alibi, he cannot be sure where truth ends and possibility begins. His bouts of terrors and blackouts continue with increased intensity, forcing him to wonder if he could be living two lives, as he acts out what’s seen in these vivid dreams.
As Detective Nolan tries to give Sam the benefit of the doubt, she cannot ignore all the evidence that stands before her. However, there seems to be something that no one can ignore, which includes someone lurking in the shadows, almost seeking to pin the crimes on Sam as a distraction for a larger plan. While Sam’s terrors become all the more vivid, he will have to find a way to push the target off his back, or go down as a scapegoat.
I usually really enjoy the work that P.J. Tracy puts out. The moniker referred to an explosive mother-daughter team throughout most of the Monkeewrench series. When the elder passed on, it morphed into a fine-oiled machine headed by an experienced writer who knew her way around the streets of Minneapolis. With this new series, things seem a tad disjointed still, though there is the possibility that a fresh approach is still working out the kinks. I’d like to stick things out to see how the characters develop and whether Tracy can keep the momentum going.
While reading, I was apt to call Sam Easton the protagonist, as his bouts of PTSD cannot be ignored. However, it would see the reader should be focussing their time on Margaret Nolan and her glass ceiling breaking experiences within the LAPD. There are a number of building blocks P.J. Tracy has laid out to develop her character, including her fight to make a name for herself as the struggles with PTSD inside her own family. Nolan was not, for me, as memorable or central as I would have hoped a protagonist to be, though her presence cannot be ignored. Tracy has begun developing the Nolan character carefully, though there is still a great deal that needs to be done to showcase her effectively.
The use of a number of secondary characters keeps the story flowing. As I mentioned before, Tracy confuses things by offering Sam Easton more of the spotlight than a supporting character might normally receive, but I was pleased to see how intricate the development was to add depth and flavour to the story. The reader is able to see interesting side perspectives of veterans returning from the battlefield and how things are mishandled, leaving many to medicate (either under a doctor’s care or on their own) to dull the pain. The reader is treated to a number of other characters as well, all of whom provide something to keep the story from going flat.
Looking at the overall reading experience, Tracy provides the reader with an interesting mystery and an intriguing police procedural. While the narrative focuses more on the Sam Easton angle, there are moments that Margaret Nolan is permitted to shine in her own debut. The writing is strong and pushes the story along quite effectively, helped with short chapters to capture the reader’s attention. With a narrative that seeks to guide and dialogue that helps to show the way, P.J. Tracy lays the groundwork for what could be a decent series, though her fans will surely play the comparative game against the long-established Monkeewrench novels, as I did. In the end, it’s a great start and there is a lot of room to grow, perfect for those who need something that will intrigue, yet not full engross them just yet!
Kudos, Madam Tracy, for a nice start to something new. I’ll stick around to see what else you have in store for us soon!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
After thoroughly enjoying the development of the Monkeewrench series, I was eager to see P.J. Tracy return with a new publication. A standalone, or perhaps a germinating series, this book differs greatly from the cold streets of Minneapolis. Rather, it’s a hot mystery set inside LA, with a killer who targets women and a recent Afghan vet whose battle with PTSD is one that is not going well. Tracy offers up a quick mystery with some interesting development, though Deep Into the Dark fails to resonate for me yet, as the Monkeewrench novels did repeatedly.
Sam Easton is back in the States, after a harrowing time serving his country overseas. What he saw and experienced in Afghanistan is enough to leave any man with wounds, something Sam does not lack. However, it is the marks that cannot be traced with a finger that cause Sam so many issues. His PTSD is severe, causing him horrible nightmares and blackouts that no amount of prescribed medication or visits to his psychiatrist can aid.
Sam’s taken up a job tending bar while he tries to piece his life back together., The city’s abuzz with a string of killings, as young women are found brutality killed in out of the way fleabag motels. While the LAPD are on the case, it’s a giant mystery as to where they ought to begin.
LAPD Detectives Margaret Nolan and Al Crawford are tossed the case, though they are slow to make any progress. After a few more bodies are found, one Sam Easton becomes a person of interest, as his ex-wife is one of those left slain. While Easton eschews his innocence, offering up a flimsy alibi, he cannot be sure where truth ends and possibility begins. His bouts of terrors and blackouts continue with increased intensity, forcing him to wonder if he could be living two lives, as he acts out what’s seen in these vivid dreams.
As Detective Nolan tries to give Sam the benefit of the doubt, she cannot ignore all the evidence that stands before her. However, there seems to be something that no one can ignore, which includes someone lurking in the shadows, almost seeking to pin the crimes on Sam as a distraction for a larger plan. While Sam’s terrors become all the more vivid, he will have to find a way to push the target off his back, or go down as a scapegoat.
I usually really enjoy the work that P.J. Tracy puts out. The moniker referred to an explosive mother-daughter team throughout most of the Monkeewrench series. When the elder passed on, it morphed into a fine-oiled machine headed by an experienced writer who knew her way around the streets of Minneapolis. With this new series, things seem a tad disjointed still, though there is the possibility that a fresh approach is still working out the kinks. I’d like to stick things out to see how the characters develop and whether Tracy can keep the momentum going.
While reading, I was apt to call Sam Easton the protagonist, as his bouts of PTSD cannot be ignored. However, it would see the reader should be focussing their time on Margaret Nolan and her glass ceiling breaking experiences within the LAPD. There are a number of building blocks P.J. Tracy has laid out to develop her character, including her fight to make a name for herself as the struggles with PTSD inside her own family. Nolan was not, for me, as memorable or central as I would have hoped a protagonist to be, though her presence cannot be ignored. Tracy has begun developing the Nolan character carefully, though there is still a great deal that needs to be done to showcase her effectively.
The use of a number of secondary characters keeps the story flowing. As I mentioned before, Tracy confuses things by offering Sam Easton more of the spotlight than a supporting character might normally receive, but I was pleased to see how intricate the development was to add depth and flavour to the story. The reader is able to see interesting side perspectives of veterans returning from the battlefield and how things are mishandled, leaving many to medicate (either under a doctor’s care or on their own) to dull the pain. The reader is treated to a number of other characters as well, all of whom provide something to keep the story from going flat.
Looking at the overall reading experience, Tracy provides the reader with an interesting mystery and an intriguing police procedural. While the narrative focuses more on the Sam Easton angle, there are moments that Margaret Nolan is permitted to shine in her own debut. The writing is strong and pushes the story along quite effectively, helped with short chapters to capture the reader’s attention. With a narrative that seeks to guide and dialogue that helps to show the way, P.J. Tracy lays the groundwork for what could be a decent series, though her fans will surely play the comparative game against the long-established Monkeewrench novels, as I did. In the end, it’s a great start and there is a lot of room to grow, perfect for those who need something that will intrigue, yet not full engross them just yet!
Kudos, Madam Tracy, for a nice start to something new. I’ll stick around to see what else you have in store for us soon!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
November 29, 2020
Intense and intricate plot. Very unique look into the effects of PTSD with an impressive mystery attached.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have to admit this book surprised me a bit. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never heard of this author before. Some of the pre-reviews were supportive yet slightly mixed. But I dove in anyway. Thank god!
The author completely sucked me in with an impressive storytelling ability that includes the depths of despair with psychological torment from PTSD. But it also became a murder mystery with two separate parts of the story connecting into one.
One side is the police detective’s point of view as they’re searching for the killer of gruesome murders in the city. The second view involves two coworkers whose lives begin to intertwine and intersect in a very unlikely manner.
These two pieces eventually become one through a very twisted and slippery slope. With one focus on the character with psychological and traumatic brain injuries, you have to wonder what’s truth and what is fiction through much of the story. Intense and intricate!
The author includes some mind-bending twists especially towards the end of the book that cement this as a fabulous read. Especially for those that enjoy cop fiction, psychological twists, and murder mystery, the author hits all pieces in this raw, realistic, and gritty story.
Deep Into the Dark is the start of a new series and if this is any indication as to what is to come, sign me up! Fast-paced, heart-pounding, and complex! This is one author who is on my radar for future reads.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/deep-into-th...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have to admit this book surprised me a bit. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I have never heard of this author before. Some of the pre-reviews were supportive yet slightly mixed. But I dove in anyway. Thank god!
The author completely sucked me in with an impressive storytelling ability that includes the depths of despair with psychological torment from PTSD. But it also became a murder mystery with two separate parts of the story connecting into one.
One side is the police detective’s point of view as they’re searching for the killer of gruesome murders in the city. The second view involves two coworkers whose lives begin to intertwine and intersect in a very unlikely manner.
These two pieces eventually become one through a very twisted and slippery slope. With one focus on the character with psychological and traumatic brain injuries, you have to wonder what’s truth and what is fiction through much of the story. Intense and intricate!
The author includes some mind-bending twists especially towards the end of the book that cement this as a fabulous read. Especially for those that enjoy cop fiction, psychological twists, and murder mystery, the author hits all pieces in this raw, realistic, and gritty story.
Deep Into the Dark is the start of a new series and if this is any indication as to what is to come, sign me up! Fast-paced, heart-pounding, and complex! This is one author who is on my radar for future reads.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/deep-into-th...
January 12, 2021
Longtime fans of the mother and daughter writing team P.J. Tracy have wondered whether or not daughter Traci would continue the Monkeewrench series after the death of mother P.J.
I haven’t seen the question answered definitively, but Traci has gotten off to an excellent start with the first book, Deep into the Dark (Margaret Nolan #1) of a new series.
Deep into the Dark is more than a standard police procedural. First there are the accounts of murders from two wildly different categories. LAPD’s storied Robbery Homicide Division aka RHD is investigating both sets. Margaret Nolan, a detective new to the famous boys club is investigating murders that involve Sam Easton, a terribly wounded veteran. This is also the story of two work friends protecting each other by trying to solve the murders they are involved in. Deep into the Dark is also a sensitive study of severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with all of its fears and ugliness. Finally, this is PJ Tracy’s announcement that she has this covered, this launch of a new series.
Initially the serial killer investigation and the individual investigations seem to have no connections. Then Afghanistan veteran, Sam Easton, suffering from PTSD, seems to be connected to both homicide investigations. This doesn’t bode well for Sam, despite his alibis and his outstanding military career and connections.
Tracy’s writing is stunning at times. Two quick examples if I may: “Nobody who genuinely feared for their life thought about killing themselves; they just thought about survival.” and then: “…discomfited by the realization that she was hot for a human version of a redacted document, which said more about her than him.” My espn guess for the future: that so-called ‘redacted document’ will have a much stronger role in the next book of the series. What a sensitive way to describe serious hurting and what a great way to describe a puzzling character. Frankly I could pick examples of outstanding prose from almost every page.
Deep into the Dark is more Sam’s story than Margaret Nolan’s story. Not only was Sam the stronger character, there were two or three story lines that connect Afghanistan, Sam, and the serial killings that remain unresolved. I wonder if Sam will return, or if those questions will remain unanswered. Just like what happens in life. I hope Margaret becomes a more delineated character.
This book is darker than the Monkeewrench Gang, and –please forgive me for this- they weren’t any barrel of laughs. I highly recommend reading Deep into the Dark for its atypical crimes, and the sensitive portrayal of a doubly scarred man in deep pain who is trying his best.
Thank you to NetGalley for an Arc. The opinions are entirely my own.
I haven’t seen the question answered definitively, but Traci has gotten off to an excellent start with the first book, Deep into the Dark (Margaret Nolan #1) of a new series.
Deep into the Dark is more than a standard police procedural. First there are the accounts of murders from two wildly different categories. LAPD’s storied Robbery Homicide Division aka RHD is investigating both sets. Margaret Nolan, a detective new to the famous boys club is investigating murders that involve Sam Easton, a terribly wounded veteran. This is also the story of two work friends protecting each other by trying to solve the murders they are involved in. Deep into the Dark is also a sensitive study of severe Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with all of its fears and ugliness. Finally, this is PJ Tracy’s announcement that she has this covered, this launch of a new series.
Initially the serial killer investigation and the individual investigations seem to have no connections. Then Afghanistan veteran, Sam Easton, suffering from PTSD, seems to be connected to both homicide investigations. This doesn’t bode well for Sam, despite his alibis and his outstanding military career and connections.
Tracy’s writing is stunning at times. Two quick examples if I may: “Nobody who genuinely feared for their life thought about killing themselves; they just thought about survival.” and then: “…discomfited by the realization that she was hot for a human version of a redacted document, which said more about her than him.” My espn guess for the future: that so-called ‘redacted document’ will have a much stronger role in the next book of the series. What a sensitive way to describe serious hurting and what a great way to describe a puzzling character. Frankly I could pick examples of outstanding prose from almost every page.
Deep into the Dark is more Sam’s story than Margaret Nolan’s story. Not only was Sam the stronger character, there were two or three story lines that connect Afghanistan, Sam, and the serial killings that remain unresolved. I wonder if Sam will return, or if those questions will remain unanswered. Just like what happens in life. I hope Margaret becomes a more delineated character.
This book is darker than the Monkeewrench Gang, and –please forgive me for this- they weren’t any barrel of laughs. I highly recommend reading Deep into the Dark for its atypical crimes, and the sensitive portrayal of a doubly scarred man in deep pain who is trying his best.
Thank you to NetGalley for an Arc. The opinions are entirely my own.
December 4, 2022
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, crime thriller. It has interesting, likable characters, murder, mystery, suspense, twists and turns, wit, a touch of humor, and a very cool classic car. This is the first entry in P.J. Tracy's outstanding Detective Margaret Nolan series. I am looking forward to reading the next novel with great anticipation. I listened to the audio version of this novel, and the narrator, Ms. Abby Craden, does an excellent job depicting the characters and their personalities.
February 4, 2022
Slow…. Obvious…
January 18, 2021
4 stars
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a good mystery/thriller that is a quick and easy read. Sam sustained a serious head injury in Afghanistan and is suffering from severe PTSD. He gets a job as a bar back in a club and is trying to deal with his injury and repair his failing marriage. One night Sam shelters his co-worker Melody who was beaten by her boyfriend. When the boyfriend turns up dead the next day, both Sam and Melody are suspects.
LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan's brother was recently killed overseas and is sympathetic to Sam and doesn't see him as a killer. Her partner disagrees. In addition to this murder, another detective is trying to catch a serial killer that is murdering young women. Events continue to get worse for Sam and Melody, and everyone wants the killers caught.
I don't know much about head injuries and PTSD, but it appears the author did their homework and does a good job of depicting Sam's symptoms and treatment. The author goes into quite a bit of detail, and it's just as big a part of the book as the mystery.
There are a few twists in the book, although I was able to figure out a few of them early on. It was still good to read how the author gets there, so it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the book. There are a few random events that seemed to just be thrown in, and you have to suspend disbelief for a few things, but overall, it was a fun book to read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. All opinions expressed in this review are mine.
You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.
This is a good mystery/thriller that is a quick and easy read. Sam sustained a serious head injury in Afghanistan and is suffering from severe PTSD. He gets a job as a bar back in a club and is trying to deal with his injury and repair his failing marriage. One night Sam shelters his co-worker Melody who was beaten by her boyfriend. When the boyfriend turns up dead the next day, both Sam and Melody are suspects.
LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan's brother was recently killed overseas and is sympathetic to Sam and doesn't see him as a killer. Her partner disagrees. In addition to this murder, another detective is trying to catch a serial killer that is murdering young women. Events continue to get worse for Sam and Melody, and everyone wants the killers caught.
I don't know much about head injuries and PTSD, but it appears the author did their homework and does a good job of depicting Sam's symptoms and treatment. The author goes into quite a bit of detail, and it's just as big a part of the book as the mystery.
There are a few twists in the book, although I was able to figure out a few of them early on. It was still good to read how the author gets there, so it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the book. There are a few random events that seemed to just be thrown in, and you have to suspend disbelief for a few things, but overall, it was a fun book to read.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. All opinions expressed in this review are mine.
November 9, 2023
Let me make clear this is not a bad book, as such, it just is not for me. There are other authors who write this genre this way and engage my interest far more.
Mama Tracy seemingly made all the difference for this writing partnership and this novel, sadly, is not anywhere near the high level of the Monkeewrench books 😔
Mama Tracy seemingly made all the difference for this writing partnership and this novel, sadly, is not anywhere near the high level of the Monkeewrench books 😔
February 2, 2021
Sam and Melody, each struggling with issues from their past, have formed a friendship after working together at a trendy Los Angeles bar, The Pearl. They find themselves embroiled in not one, but two murder mysteries, which puts them on Detective Margaret Nolan and her partner’s radar. Sam struggles with severe PTSD which has been resulting in creepy hallucinations and disturbing dreams. An unfortunate complication when dealing with the strange occurrences that Melody and Sam keep encountering.
After reading the book description and seeing the series is named after the lead detective, I was a little thrown by how little time was spent with Detective Margaret Nolan. I think a large portion was focused on Sam and Melody, which wasn’t a bad thing as I really enjoyed getting to know them and liked their characters. It was just a surprise. Sam and Melody are forced to rely heavily on each other, and I wonder about how their relationship will play out in future books or if they’ll even be in the coming books. The series is called Detective Margaret Nolan, so maybe not?
After being a big fan of the Monkeywrench series I was excited to pick up P.J. Tracy’s newest endeavor. Also, a bit nervous. When you’re a fan of a particular series and they come up with something new there’s expectations. It did take me a bit to get into the story, but when I made myself sit down and concentrate, the story was engrossing. It was easy to make out the killer once the person appeared on the page, and I did suspect how the situation would come to a head. I will say that even knowing that things got pretty crazy in the end making for an action-packed, crazy-town-finish!
A copy was kindly provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
After reading the book description and seeing the series is named after the lead detective, I was a little thrown by how little time was spent with Detective Margaret Nolan. I think a large portion was focused on Sam and Melody, which wasn’t a bad thing as I really enjoyed getting to know them and liked their characters. It was just a surprise. Sam and Melody are forced to rely heavily on each other, and I wonder about how their relationship will play out in future books or if they’ll even be in the coming books. The series is called Detective Margaret Nolan, so maybe not?
After being a big fan of the Monkeywrench series I was excited to pick up P.J. Tracy’s newest endeavor. Also, a bit nervous. When you’re a fan of a particular series and they come up with something new there’s expectations. It did take me a bit to get into the story, but when I made myself sit down and concentrate, the story was engrossing. It was easy to make out the killer once the person appeared on the page, and I did suspect how the situation would come to a head. I will say that even knowing that things got pretty crazy in the end making for an action-packed, crazy-town-finish!
A copy was kindly provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2022
🌧Deep Into The Dark: A Review🌧
My 1st P.J. Tracy book & it won’t be my last! Although, I was confused for most of the beginning due to many characters being thrown at me at once. Perhaps it was also because I was listening on audio. I would definitely recommend reading the print or e-book version for this series, at least to start.
Sam Eaton, home from an Afghanistan tour, suffers from severe PTSD. Although he sees a therapist, he still experiences nightmares, has black out periods where he’ll pass out or spaces & can’t remember details for a specific time frame. It’s frightening, disheartening & ultimately ends up costing him his marriage. His “ex” wife still tries to be friendly by frequently keeping in touch via phone calls & stopping by in person but that only confuses his emotions further. Staying in the house they once shared helps nothing.
Simultaneously, his friend Melody is beaten by her boyfriend & runs to Sam for help. This isn’t the first time it’s happened, but she can’t take it anymore. When he is found dead the very next day it’s hard NOT to suspect both Melody or Sam. Sam—with memory lapses, Sam— with no solid alibi, Sam—the rugged war hero that means well but is still intimidating. He couldn’t have done this, could he?
Enter Detective Margaret Nolan who relates to Sam after losing her brother to the military, but still finds the pair suspicious. As the death toll rises she will have to figure out what secrets are being withheld & why.
“Three victims in three months is a brisk pace for a serial that’s just starting out. These killings are high risk; in public spaces. It’s like this guy’s at the end of his run, can’t control his urges anymore or he’s anxious to get noticed.”
The “Monster” = 1 dead body a month & counting…
“A stranger broke into my apartment & left two dozen roses in my bedroom & I want him arrested. My boyfriend didn’t leave them but now he knows I have a secret admirer & I’m afraid he might kill me because it turns out he’s jealous & violent.”
Up Next Book 2 “Desolation Canyon” 🏜
📆New Release: 01/18/2022
Thank you #partner Minotaur Books for a #gifted arc in exchange for my honest review.
#overbookedbookclub
My 1st P.J. Tracy book & it won’t be my last! Although, I was confused for most of the beginning due to many characters being thrown at me at once. Perhaps it was also because I was listening on audio. I would definitely recommend reading the print or e-book version for this series, at least to start.
Sam Eaton, home from an Afghanistan tour, suffers from severe PTSD. Although he sees a therapist, he still experiences nightmares, has black out periods where he’ll pass out or spaces & can’t remember details for a specific time frame. It’s frightening, disheartening & ultimately ends up costing him his marriage. His “ex” wife still tries to be friendly by frequently keeping in touch via phone calls & stopping by in person but that only confuses his emotions further. Staying in the house they once shared helps nothing.
Simultaneously, his friend Melody is beaten by her boyfriend & runs to Sam for help. This isn’t the first time it’s happened, but she can’t take it anymore. When he is found dead the very next day it’s hard NOT to suspect both Melody or Sam. Sam—with memory lapses, Sam— with no solid alibi, Sam—the rugged war hero that means well but is still intimidating. He couldn’t have done this, could he?
Enter Detective Margaret Nolan who relates to Sam after losing her brother to the military, but still finds the pair suspicious. As the death toll rises she will have to figure out what secrets are being withheld & why.
“Three victims in three months is a brisk pace for a serial that’s just starting out. These killings are high risk; in public spaces. It’s like this guy’s at the end of his run, can’t control his urges anymore or he’s anxious to get noticed.”
The “Monster” = 1 dead body a month & counting…
“A stranger broke into my apartment & left two dozen roses in my bedroom & I want him arrested. My boyfriend didn’t leave them but now he knows I have a secret admirer & I’m afraid he might kill me because it turns out he’s jealous & violent.”
Up Next Book 2 “Desolation Canyon” 🏜
📆New Release: 01/18/2022
Thank you #partner Minotaur Books for a #gifted arc in exchange for my honest review.
#overbookedbookclub
January 12, 2021
I have been a fan of P.J. Tracy since the first Monkeewrench novel and have read virtually all the books since. Twisty, dark, and wholly satisfying, exactly what I look for in a suspense thriller.
In Deep into the Dark, two seemingly unrelated narratives come together in a beautifully organic way. First, a more traditional serial killer storyline (which ends up not being what you expect—but in the best possible way.) Detective Maggie Nolan is called to the scene of a brutal slaying of a woman from the fringes of society.
The murder of Jane Doe isn’t going to be her case—there’s a task force in charge of the Monster investigation—led by Maggie’s friend and possible love interest, Remy Beaudreau. Fortunately, we’re kept in the loop of this investigation because of this connection—which becomes important as the story continues.
Maggie is a very interesting character who I liked immediately. Grieving over the death of her brother in Afghanistan, juggling a new home and new promotion, she keeps people at arm’s length. But her grief doesn’t impact her job: she’s a good cop and—as Remy says near the end—“You’re one of the sharpest detectives the LAPD has, don’t tell me you haven’t figured it out yet.”
More at Criminal Element
In Deep into the Dark, two seemingly unrelated narratives come together in a beautifully organic way. First, a more traditional serial killer storyline (which ends up not being what you expect—but in the best possible way.) Detective Maggie Nolan is called to the scene of a brutal slaying of a woman from the fringes of society.
She was sickened. Enraged. And very, very sad. The environment where a homicide took place said volumes about the killer and the victim. … this poor woman, a resident of Aqua Travel Lodge—a rancid boil in the most squalid part of central Los Angeles—certainly hadn’t enjoyed much comfort before death. According to Ray Lovell, the vacuous motel clerk with meth teeth who had found her, she’d been a junkie who sometimes turned tricks, sometimes tended bar at the Kitty Corral, a topless dive across the street that catered to the very bottom layer of human sediment. It all cheapened her violent, sorry demise.
The murder of Jane Doe isn’t going to be her case—there’s a task force in charge of the Monster investigation—led by Maggie’s friend and possible love interest, Remy Beaudreau. Fortunately, we’re kept in the loop of this investigation because of this connection—which becomes important as the story continues.
Maggie is a very interesting character who I liked immediately. Grieving over the death of her brother in Afghanistan, juggling a new home and new promotion, she keeps people at arm’s length. But her grief doesn’t impact her job: she’s a good cop and—as Remy says near the end—“You’re one of the sharpest detectives the LAPD has, don’t tell me you haven’t figured it out yet.”
More at Criminal Element
January 25, 2021
It's hard to write objective reviews for a writer who was behind one of my favourite series - though the best part of Monkeewrench is that found family trope, so I was at least prepared for something completely different.
And Deep into the Dark is definitely it's own beast! Set in sunny LA, for a start, there's a different rhythm to this novel, but the writing is similarly able to quickly get you absorbed. Characters say and do smart things, and the central mystery was nice and twisty.
I do think this book didn't quite hit that perfect balance - there's two groups of characters, and two mysteries at play, and one set of each received a lot more attention than the other. I definitely wanted more of Margaret Nolan, but if the second mystery hadn't wrapped up in this book, it might have been less of an issue. It was given about the right amount of space for something that is meant to carry on throughout the series. The Pink's hotdog references got a bit too frequent in places too - one chapter had three in close succession - though I'm not an Angeleno, so potentially I'm ignorant to the amazingness that earned them that inclusion.
They're minor quibbles all told, though, and overall there's a lot to like with this book. Melanie and Sam had great chemistry as they paired up to figure out what was happening in their lives, and there's plenty of the lovely quirky side-characters that have always delighted me in Tracy's work. Still no word on whether the break from Monkeewrench is temporary, but as long as this is the kind of side-trip the now-solo author is taking - I'll be sticking around regardless.
And Deep into the Dark is definitely it's own beast! Set in sunny LA, for a start, there's a different rhythm to this novel, but the writing is similarly able to quickly get you absorbed. Characters say and do smart things, and the central mystery was nice and twisty.
I do think this book didn't quite hit that perfect balance - there's two groups of characters, and two mysteries at play, and one set of each received a lot more attention than the other. I definitely wanted more of Margaret Nolan, but if the second mystery hadn't wrapped up in this book, it might have been less of an issue. It was given about the right amount of space for something that is meant to carry on throughout the series. The Pink's hotdog references got a bit too frequent in places too - one chapter had three in close succession - though I'm not an Angeleno, so potentially I'm ignorant to the amazingness that earned them that inclusion.
They're minor quibbles all told, though, and overall there's a lot to like with this book. Melanie and Sam had great chemistry as they paired up to figure out what was happening in their lives, and there's plenty of the lovely quirky side-characters that have always delighted me in Tracy's work. Still no word on whether the break from Monkeewrench is temporary, but as long as this is the kind of side-trip the now-solo author is taking - I'll be sticking around regardless.
January 8, 2021
Deep into the Dark is one half of former mother/daughter P.J. Tracy (her mother passed away a few years ago). This story finds coworkers and friends Sam and Melody accused of murdering their respective significant others by Detectives Nolan and Caldwell. Both claim innocence and take the investigation on themselves. Sam is a veteran who is badly disfigured after an IED burned half his face and killed most everyone in his unit in Afghanistan.
Sam and Melody are very likable characters who are fully realized with detailed back stories. They are featured so prominently that one would almost feel like they are the main characters in this book. They aren't though. This is book one in a series about Detective Nolan who we really don't get to know about. All we really know is she's dealing with the death of her brother in Afghanistan, that she's relatively new to homicide, and that she has a thing for Detective Remy Budreau, who is investigating cases of serial murder. A subplot that to me, doesn't really add much to the story.
This book starts off slow at first than picks up the pace about 2/3 of the way through. It's also pretty pedantic. There's a lot of language in here that's more for academic texts and journals and it doesn't seem to fit in the story. If this was the start of a series about Sam and Melody, I'd be interested in book 2, As it stands now, I'm not so sure about reading book 2 in the Detective Nolan series.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, author P.J. Tracy and NetGalley for gifting me a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Sam and Melody are very likable characters who are fully realized with detailed back stories. They are featured so prominently that one would almost feel like they are the main characters in this book. They aren't though. This is book one in a series about Detective Nolan who we really don't get to know about. All we really know is she's dealing with the death of her brother in Afghanistan, that she's relatively new to homicide, and that she has a thing for Detective Remy Budreau, who is investigating cases of serial murder. A subplot that to me, doesn't really add much to the story.
This book starts off slow at first than picks up the pace about 2/3 of the way through. It's also pretty pedantic. There's a lot of language in here that's more for academic texts and journals and it doesn't seem to fit in the story. If this was the start of a series about Sam and Melody, I'd be interested in book 2, As it stands now, I'm not so sure about reading book 2 in the Detective Nolan series.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, author P.J. Tracy and NetGalley for gifting me a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 17, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this arc.
I've read all and very much enjoyed the Monkeewrench series written by this author with her mother. I was a little hesitant to start Deep into the Dark, worried that it wouldn't have the same "vibes" found in the series. I truly enjoyed the intelligent, seemingly "damaged" characters of Monkeewrench but found them here as well. Okay, worth reading for me. I really like that she can write characters that overcome their past "traumas" to not only survive but thrive.
The first 20 - 25% seemed a little slow, as it was mostly introduction to the various characters and setting of seemingly disconnected story lines. After that point, it accelerated into a very high speed pace and didn't really let up. Yes, there was some gore and some really sick & twisted folks as well as some very relatable and likeable people. Overall and excellent read with just a whisper of an "end" too neatly "tied up" for me. But I will keep my eyes open for additions to this series.
4.5 stars
I've read all and very much enjoyed the Monkeewrench series written by this author with her mother. I was a little hesitant to start Deep into the Dark, worried that it wouldn't have the same "vibes" found in the series. I truly enjoyed the intelligent, seemingly "damaged" characters of Monkeewrench but found them here as well. Okay, worth reading for me. I really like that she can write characters that overcome their past "traumas" to not only survive but thrive.
The first 20 - 25% seemed a little slow, as it was mostly introduction to the various characters and setting of seemingly disconnected story lines. After that point, it accelerated into a very high speed pace and didn't really let up. Yes, there was some gore and some really sick & twisted folks as well as some very relatable and likeable people. Overall and excellent read with just a whisper of an "end" too neatly "tied up" for me. But I will keep my eyes open for additions to this series.
4.5 stars
January 13, 2021
Whoa- Deep into the Dark by P.J. Tracy is a seriously good, dive deep into a mystery of a serial killer on the loose and Sam Easton is the number one suspect.. what really goes on during these intense blackouts from his PTSD. The writing captured my attention from the beginning and hello to real characters with flaws. This is one intense read, would make an incredible movie too! The characters are what get me...so real with their scars (Sam) or their secrets (Melody) and their brilliant detective work (LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan). The way the themes are interwoven to tell a story that had me struggling to figure out what would happen... alas all of my guesses were wrong! (Bonus to be wrong!) Well written, fine writing with characters that seem to pop out of the book and sit down beside you.
Thank you to NetGalley for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy! As always, my opinion is voluntary and my own!
Thank you to NetGalley for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy! As always, my opinion is voluntary and my own!
January 14, 2022
P.J. Tracey is off to a decent start with a new mystery series featuring Detective Margaret Nolan of the LAPD--although the most interesting character is perhaps Sam Easton, a survivor of a deadly IED attack in Afghanistan that killed the rest of his army buddies. He's struggling, dealing with appalling facial scars, severe neurological damage and now hallucinations and blackouts.
Detective Nolan and her partner Al Crawford come into the picture when several murders they are investigating seem to have ties to Sam. Al thinks Sam is good for the collar but Nolan has a bit of a soft spot for him because her brother died serving in Afghanistan. She needs to encourage Al to keep an open mind and keep looking.
**I was a Grand Prize Winner of The Minotaur Quiz Show Sweepstakes and won a copy of this and three other new mysteries. Lucky day!**
Detective Nolan and her partner Al Crawford come into the picture when several murders they are investigating seem to have ties to Sam. Al thinks Sam is good for the collar but Nolan has a bit of a soft spot for him because her brother died serving in Afghanistan. She needs to encourage Al to keep an open mind and keep looking.
**I was a Grand Prize Winner of The Minotaur Quiz Show Sweepstakes and won a copy of this and three other new mysteries. Lucky day!**
September 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
Deep into the Dark.
I've never read the author's previous books before but I was pleased when my request was approved.
I'm always looking for a new author to read.
** Minor spoilers ahead **
Deep into the Dark is about two interconnected narratives; a serial killer is lurking in L.A. at the same time two brutal murders occur in less than 24 hours, implicating Army veteran Sam Easton.
Sounds intriguing and the writing is good, but the story is bogged down with the terrible 2s:
1. Too many characters
2. Too many POVs; Sam Easton, his coworker and friend, Melody, brief monologues from the killer, the detectives investigating the double murder along with the detective probing the serial murders...AND, Sam's mother.
3. Too much happening; Sam's struggles with PTSD, his sessions with his psychiatrist, his 'psychic' ability (which is never resolved at the end), his co-worker's abusive sort-of boyfriend, a stalker, a serial killer, Sam's estrangement with his wife.
What really annoyed me was that despite the POVs of three detectives, there wasn't much detecting going on.
4. Too much chit-chatting and the female detective mooning over her colleague.
5. Too little character development. The only character readers get to know is Sam, a good man suffering severe PTSD after being grievously wounded in Afghanistan that killed everyone in his unit.
Everyone is is marginally described and developed. As a result, it was hard to make a connection with anyone.
I had hoped the female detective, at least, would factor in as a major character.
The identity of the killer(s) was, frankly, unbelievable, and my ability to suspend disbelief was really being tested at the end, as well as Sam's attempts to plug in the gaps of his memory and the whereabouts of a soldier.
Overall, the writing was good, and if you don't mind raising the bar on disbelief suspension, this book is for you.
I've never read the author's previous books before but I was pleased when my request was approved.
I'm always looking for a new author to read.
** Minor spoilers ahead **
Deep into the Dark is about two interconnected narratives; a serial killer is lurking in L.A. at the same time two brutal murders occur in less than 24 hours, implicating Army veteran Sam Easton.
Sounds intriguing and the writing is good, but the story is bogged down with the terrible 2s:
1. Too many characters
2. Too many POVs; Sam Easton, his coworker and friend, Melody, brief monologues from the killer, the detectives investigating the double murder along with the detective probing the serial murders...AND, Sam's mother.
3. Too much happening; Sam's struggles with PTSD, his sessions with his psychiatrist, his 'psychic' ability (which is never resolved at the end), his co-worker's abusive sort-of boyfriend, a stalker, a serial killer, Sam's estrangement with his wife.
What really annoyed me was that despite the POVs of three detectives, there wasn't much detecting going on.
4. Too much chit-chatting and the female detective mooning over her colleague.
5. Too little character development. The only character readers get to know is Sam, a good man suffering severe PTSD after being grievously wounded in Afghanistan that killed everyone in his unit.
Everyone is is marginally described and developed. As a result, it was hard to make a connection with anyone.
I had hoped the female detective, at least, would factor in as a major character.
The identity of the killer(s) was, frankly, unbelievable, and my ability to suspend disbelief was really being tested at the end, as well as Sam's attempts to plug in the gaps of his memory and the whereabouts of a soldier.
Overall, the writing was good, and if you don't mind raising the bar on disbelief suspension, this book is for you.
January 30, 2021
This was my first book by Tracy and it was super nice that it is the first book in her new series. I was not really sure what to expect form this new author but I was pleasantly surprised how fast the book went, it started out a bit slow but once it picked up I flew through it.
Good story line and some unforgettable characters.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
Good story line and some unforgettable characters.
I gave this book 4 stars and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
September 1, 2020
1. This is not the Monkeewrench series.
2. It is supposed to be a series featuring LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan and murder suspect Sam Easton, but as it turns out, Nolan plays a pretty minor role. Sam and Melody Traeger take over the novel.
3. I knew the villain on his first appearance. That's fine if the author intends for you to, but I think it was supposed to come as a surprise.
Deep into the Dark kept my interest because of Sam and Melody, but the plot was not believable. Either plot, I guess, because there was a secondary plot thread.
The eccentric and endearing characters that helped make Monkeewrench such a fun series are absent in Deep into the Dark, which is more of a straight forward crime novel.
If I had not been hoping for some of the fresh and funny aspects of Monkeewrench, I would have liked it better, but the author (whose mother and partner for the Monkeewrench series has died) is entitled to take a new path with a different vibe.
Read in August. Blog review scheduled for Dec. 30, 2020
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press.
Crime. Jan. 12, 2021. Print length: 352 pages.
2. It is supposed to be a series featuring LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan and murder suspect Sam Easton, but as it turns out, Nolan plays a pretty minor role. Sam and Melody Traeger take over the novel.
3. I knew the villain on his first appearance. That's fine if the author intends for you to, but I think it was supposed to come as a surprise.
Deep into the Dark kept my interest because of Sam and Melody, but the plot was not believable. Either plot, I guess, because there was a secondary plot thread.
The eccentric and endearing characters that helped make Monkeewrench such a fun series are absent in Deep into the Dark, which is more of a straight forward crime novel.
If I had not been hoping for some of the fresh and funny aspects of Monkeewrench, I would have liked it better, but the author (whose mother and partner for the Monkeewrench series has died) is entitled to take a new path with a different vibe.
Read in August. Blog review scheduled for Dec. 30, 2020
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press.
Crime. Jan. 12, 2021. Print length: 352 pages.
November 22, 2021
Why on earth did I wait so long to pick up this book!?
I really enjoyed the storyline, it was fast paced and entertaining. The characters were great, especially Sam & Melody. I hope to see more from them in the next book.
Overall a strong start to a new mystery series!
Thanks to Minotaur Books for my gifted copy!
I really enjoyed the storyline, it was fast paced and entertaining. The characters were great, especially Sam & Melody. I hope to see more from them in the next book.
Overall a strong start to a new mystery series!
Thanks to Minotaur Books for my gifted copy!
December 24, 2021
I love the Monkeewrench series by P.J. Tracy, so just had to read this newest series! This book introduces LAPD Detective Margaret Nolan. Nolan recently lost her brother, who was killed in Afghanistan. So, she sympathizes with suspected murderer Sam Easton who suffers from severe PTSD after serving, and being badly injured, in Afghanistan. It's easy to try and pin murders on Easton -- he has blackouts, hallucinates and wakes almost every night screaming. But Nolan doesn't think Easton is a killer....she's looking deeper into a string of murders. When people close to Easton and a coworker start to turn up dead, the case gets more and more bizarre.
I loved the twists and turns in this story! Although I had the killer figured out before the ending, I wasn't sure about the whys/hows until the very end. I like the characters and the grittiness of the plot. Nolan and her fellow detectives have a very difficult job -- but they are up for the task!
The writing is a bit different in this new series, but I like it! P.J. Tracy originally was the pen name of mother-daughter writing duo of P.J. and Traci Lambrecht. P.J. passed away in 2016, so Traci has carried on.
I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Abby Craden, the audio is just short of 9 hours long. Craden does an excellent job of voice acting and brings the story to life! Very enjoyable listen!
I have a review audio book of the second book in this series, Desolation Canyon. Can't wait to start listening!
I loved the twists and turns in this story! Although I had the killer figured out before the ending, I wasn't sure about the whys/hows until the very end. I like the characters and the grittiness of the plot. Nolan and her fellow detectives have a very difficult job -- but they are up for the task!
The writing is a bit different in this new series, but I like it! P.J. Tracy originally was the pen name of mother-daughter writing duo of P.J. and Traci Lambrecht. P.J. passed away in 2016, so Traci has carried on.
I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Abby Craden, the audio is just short of 9 hours long. Craden does an excellent job of voice acting and brings the story to life! Very enjoyable listen!
I have a review audio book of the second book in this series, Desolation Canyon. Can't wait to start listening!
February 22, 2024
This was my first PJ Tracy novel—I received a free copy in a AARP girlfriend box!
A “monster” is terrorizing LA and the police are coming up empty on suspects. Until an unsuspecting bar back and a has been musician get mixed up in the investigation. The story has a mystery within a mystery which I love. The characters are multidimensional and relatable. Overall this was a fun read. I wasn’t thrilled with the way the “monster” was revealed to be and how that was wrapped up…it felt like an afterthought. But I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
A “monster” is terrorizing LA and the police are coming up empty on suspects. Until an unsuspecting bar back and a has been musician get mixed up in the investigation. The story has a mystery within a mystery which I love. The characters are multidimensional and relatable. Overall this was a fun read. I wasn’t thrilled with the way the “monster” was revealed to be and how that was wrapped up…it felt like an afterthought. But I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
March 10, 2021
I was a big fan of the Monkeewrench series, written by a mother/daughter team who combined their first names as their author name. I was curious to see what daughter Traci would come up with after the death of her mother (and writing partner) P.J. The answer--she came up with a winner! Goodbye, Minnesota; hello, California (Los Angeles, to be exact).
There was so much to like in this book. I loved Sam Easton, our wounded warrior with a massive case of PTSD. He has nightmares, his marriage has fallen apart, he suffers from hallucinations and blackouts; and, best of all, he has a psychiatrist he trusts and sees regularly. I also liked Maggie Nolan, the homicide cop who, unlike her partner, was reluctant to peg Sam as the killer even though he looked suspicious.
The plot was neatly done, with lots of twists and turns. I wasn’t quite sure how the author was going to resolve the different criminal investigations, but she managed to pull it all together. This reader was satisfied.
I am already looking forward to her next book.
There was so much to like in this book. I loved Sam Easton, our wounded warrior with a massive case of PTSD. He has nightmares, his marriage has fallen apart, he suffers from hallucinations and blackouts; and, best of all, he has a psychiatrist he trusts and sees regularly. I also liked Maggie Nolan, the homicide cop who, unlike her partner, was reluctant to peg Sam as the killer even though he looked suspicious.
The plot was neatly done, with lots of twists and turns. I wasn’t quite sure how the author was going to resolve the different criminal investigations, but she managed to pull it all together. This reader was satisfied.
I am already looking forward to her next book.
January 17, 2021
This is a snippet review of books that just haven't worked for me. Maybe it's the pandemic, maybe not. What is sad, is that many of these are authors I've previously liked, so please don't judge them too harshly. These are books of which I want a record for myself, more than anything else.
This is not a Monkeywrench book, which is fine, this is the first written by Traci since the loss of her mother. And yes, it seems she is trying to find her footing.
On the positive, I liked the character of Sam, a severely wounded veteran of Afghanistan suffering from PTSD. And yes, backstory is important.
On the negative, I read seven chapters and was still waiting for the plot to appear. Sorry, my TBR mountain is too high to stay with a book that doesn't capture my attention from the first few pages.
This is not a Monkeywrench book, which is fine, this is the first written by Traci since the loss of her mother. And yes, it seems she is trying to find her footing.
On the positive, I liked the character of Sam, a severely wounded veteran of Afghanistan suffering from PTSD. And yes, backstory is important.
On the negative, I read seven chapters and was still waiting for the plot to appear. Sorry, my TBR mountain is too high to stay with a book that doesn't capture my attention from the first few pages.
December 27, 2020
I really really wanted to like this book, but it fell very flat for me. It started off strong, but halfway through I got really bored and had to force myself to finish this one. I wasnt invested in the story or characters which made it difficult to connect.
I was really hoping for more of a police procedural book (especially because the is the start of a new series), but I felt that Maggie's role played second fiddle to Sam and Melody.
This also felt like 2 super disjointed and unconnected books and they were forced to mesh together at the end.
This one also deals with PTSD which was difficult to read times.
I was really hoping for more of a police procedural book (especially because the is the start of a new series), but I felt that Maggie's role played second fiddle to Sam and Melody.
This also felt like 2 super disjointed and unconnected books and they were forced to mesh together at the end.
This one also deals with PTSD which was difficult to read times.
January 19, 2021
📚 Hello Book Friends! DEEP INTO THE DARK by P.J. Tracy was an exciting read. The authors kept me on my toes to the end. There were many twists that misled me, and the ending was full of suspense and action. The characters were interesting. Each had their own trauma and deep emotional issues. I particularly like Detective Nolan and I am looking forward to discovering more about her. This is the first book in the Detective Margaret Nolan Series. Overall, the book was entertaining, and the story well delivered.
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May 22, 2024
Complex and thrilling, Deep Into The Dark is much more character driven than I was expecting. I was slightly hesitant if I was going to like it as much as Monkeewrench series but overall I did enjoy it and will continue with the series.
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