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Star of Justice #2
A Murder Redeemed: Clean read crime fiction, full of action, mystery and suspense
Life was good…until it wasn’t.
CJ is living the life she’s always wanted. She’s married to the man of her dreams, enjoying a new home in the country and a rewarding career as the assistant police chief at a private university.
Then her world turns upside down when a series of car thefts lead to the brazen murder of one of her officers. With the hospitalization of her boss in the middle of the investigation, CJ finds herself in charge. Putting aside her grief and guilt, CJ works around the clock to discover who is behind the car thefts and the killing.
Their first big break comes… and catapults CJ into the vicious world of organized crime. The wily thief outwits the trap laid for him, giving her no choice except to follow him into his own camp. Every redemption comes at a cost. Will the price be more than CJ’s willing to pay?
CJ is living the life she’s always wanted. She’s married to the man of her dreams, enjoying a new home in the country and a rewarding career as the assistant police chief at a private university.
Then her world turns upside down when a series of car thefts lead to the brazen murder of one of her officers. With the hospitalization of her boss in the middle of the investigation, CJ finds herself in charge. Putting aside her grief and guilt, CJ works around the clock to discover who is behind the car thefts and the killing.
Their first big break comes… and catapults CJ into the vicious world of organized crime. The wily thief outwits the trap laid for him, giving her no choice except to follow him into his own camp. Every redemption comes at a cost. Will the price be more than CJ’s willing to pay?
260 pages, Paperback
First published January 14, 2021
About the author
Bruce Hammack
51 books430 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 14, 2024
Current Day
Riverview, Texas
I’m really enjoying this author. His writing is clean, he includes a faith element without being overbearing, and the mysteries/police work are excellent.
Many of the characters from book one of this series are in this second book, plus a few more campus police.
This episode focuses on CJ, (David's wife from book one) the Assistant Chief of Police for Agape Christian University. A rash of stolen cars is plaguing the campus and nearby city areas.
This police force is unlike any campus police I’ve ever known. Trained exactly like city police or sheriffs, they take their jobs and protection of this campus very seriously, not only patrolling, but investigating as well, with a gang of car thieves leading them into some dangerous, even deadly, spots.
*******************************************
Bruce Hammack has a keen sense of humor and unique way of writing. I laughed at his description of a police officer just finishing a snack in the break room… "The black caterpillar of a mustache had done an exceptional job of catching glaze from a demolished donut".
Really good book. I’m looking forward to more by Mr. Hammack. Hoping it stays clean.
Riverview, Texas
I’m really enjoying this author. His writing is clean, he includes a faith element without being overbearing, and the mysteries/police work are excellent.
Many of the characters from book one of this series are in this second book, plus a few more campus police.
This episode focuses on CJ, (David's wife from book one) the Assistant Chief of Police for Agape Christian University. A rash of stolen cars is plaguing the campus and nearby city areas.
This police force is unlike any campus police I’ve ever known. Trained exactly like city police or sheriffs, they take their jobs and protection of this campus very seriously, not only patrolling, but investigating as well, with a gang of car thieves leading them into some dangerous, even deadly, spots.
*******************************************
Bruce Hammack has a keen sense of humor and unique way of writing. I laughed at his description of a police officer just finishing a snack in the break room… "The black caterpillar of a mustache had done an exceptional job of catching glaze from a demolished donut".
Really good book. I’m looking forward to more by Mr. Hammack. Hoping it stays clean.
January 22, 2021
I received an advanced reader copy and this is my first time reading this author, certainly not my last.
Mr. Hammack writes a tight, exciting adventure. I mean, the first line is "Honey, how much trouble would I get into if I shoot one of my officers?" The story unfolds with good character development and people you like.
The author obviously knows his cop shop and it shines through the dialog, and the Texas Rangers are in here too.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Mr. Hammack writes a tight, exciting adventure. I mean, the first line is "Honey, how much trouble would I get into if I shoot one of my officers?" The story unfolds with good character development and people you like.
The author obviously knows his cop shop and it shines through the dialog, and the Texas Rangers are in here too.
Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
January 15, 2021
Wow, this book was so well written. I couldn't put it down. This book was filled with lots of action, tension and mystery. It was one of the most engaging mysteries I have read in a long time. It was modern, up-to-date in crimes that are prevalent in our time.
CJ was an assistant police chief, her dream job, living the life she wanted and suddenly everything changes. She doesn't give up trying to find the culprits in the many car thefts that are happening in her jurisdiction. There are lots of different side stories that add to the work at hand and it is captivating. If you are a mystery lover, you won't be disappointed with this book. It is that good! I really recommend this!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
CJ was an assistant police chief, her dream job, living the life she wanted and suddenly everything changes. She doesn't give up trying to find the culprits in the many car thefts that are happening in her jurisdiction. There are lots of different side stories that add to the work at hand and it is captivating. If you are a mystery lover, you won't be disappointed with this book. It is that good! I really recommend this!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
Read
June 25, 2021Wow, this book was so well written. I couldn't put it down. This book was filled with lots of action, tension and mystery. It was one of the most engaging mysteries I have read in a long time. It was modern, up-to-date in crimes that are prevalent in our time.
CJ was an assistant police chief, her dream job, living the life she wanted and suddenly everything changes. She doesn't give up trying to find the culprits in the many car thefts that are happening in her jurisdiction. There are lots of different side stories that add to the work at hand and it is captivating. If you are a mystery lover, you won't be disappointed with this book. It is that good! I really recommend this!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
CJ was an assistant police chief, her dream job, living the life she wanted and suddenly everything changes. She doesn't give up trying to find the culprits in the many car thefts that are happening in her jurisdiction. There are lots of different side stories that add to the work at hand and it is captivating. If you are a mystery lover, you won't be disappointed with this book. It is that good! I really recommend this!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
March 28, 2021
This is book two in the Star of Justice series and CJ is happy in her role as assistant police chief at ACU, a private university and being happily married to the man of her dreams David. They have David’s father living with them now, after he spent some sixteen years in prison for the murder of his wife and has only just been released a few weeks ago after he was finally proven innocent after being framed. His father is bored and annoyed at the same time, for the injustice plied upon him and not knowing what he can do now he is out, but has no money until his settlement with the government is released, no job and still no justice for his wife’s real killers as the process rolls along slowly! David and CJ now have a large five bed home in the country and a farm to run. A string of car thefts from on site at the elite university start to cause problems for CJ and her boss John, from the regents council of the university worried that the high rate of crime will put off some of their potential students. Having just agreed to fund a new police station on site, that and the head of the police department are on the line, if they can’t solve this rash of thefts.
Right as the investigation is gaining speed, her boss falls seriously ill, leaving CJ working around the clock and driving herself into the ground, as she tries to solve the car thefts and soon finds out it may be far more widespread a problem than just at the university. As they close in, one of her officers is murdered in front of her, after pulling a suspect car over, which then got away. The officer who was killed was the bane of her life at work and she couldn’t wait for him to stop his hatred and petty complaints about how she treated him, but she has to put that aside and redeem the force. Links to the Mexican Mafia make this case far more dangerous than any of them could expect and needs more assistance than just her local force can provide. Luckily David has already been put on the case by the Texas Rangers, as more car thefts have been happening than just on the university site, and his job has been to collate all those stats, to find a pattern.
Just as the first real clues come to light, it seems whoever was involved has received news of their actions and are making their moves to avoid arrest and destroy any evidence. Only a few can be trusted by CJ, as questions about the car thefts on site start to be looked at more closely and they realise that something was wrong with the initial evidence that led them one way in their investigations. Now they have another line of investigation to follow and it may lead to CJ uncovering some more crooked cops, but she will always have David at her back and a boss she can trust. Events lead CJ and a trusted fellow officer directly into the camp of criminals themselves. Lots of danger for CJ in this book, but as well as the investigation and its inherent dangers, CJ has a lot to deal with nearer home and reminders of what happened to her previously ad who was responsible. Whether she can practice the forgiveness she wants to or takes her anger out on those around her, is a difficult choice which is not always voluntary. She has a lot going on and her husband and father-in-law understand some of these issues and seem to always surprise her with their actions. A difficult case to solve along with issues in her personal life bring lots of realism to the storyline. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I can’t wait to read more in this series. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Right as the investigation is gaining speed, her boss falls seriously ill, leaving CJ working around the clock and driving herself into the ground, as she tries to solve the car thefts and soon finds out it may be far more widespread a problem than just at the university. As they close in, one of her officers is murdered in front of her, after pulling a suspect car over, which then got away. The officer who was killed was the bane of her life at work and she couldn’t wait for him to stop his hatred and petty complaints about how she treated him, but she has to put that aside and redeem the force. Links to the Mexican Mafia make this case far more dangerous than any of them could expect and needs more assistance than just her local force can provide. Luckily David has already been put on the case by the Texas Rangers, as more car thefts have been happening than just on the university site, and his job has been to collate all those stats, to find a pattern.
Just as the first real clues come to light, it seems whoever was involved has received news of their actions and are making their moves to avoid arrest and destroy any evidence. Only a few can be trusted by CJ, as questions about the car thefts on site start to be looked at more closely and they realise that something was wrong with the initial evidence that led them one way in their investigations. Now they have another line of investigation to follow and it may lead to CJ uncovering some more crooked cops, but she will always have David at her back and a boss she can trust. Events lead CJ and a trusted fellow officer directly into the camp of criminals themselves. Lots of danger for CJ in this book, but as well as the investigation and its inherent dangers, CJ has a lot to deal with nearer home and reminders of what happened to her previously ad who was responsible. Whether she can practice the forgiveness she wants to or takes her anger out on those around her, is a difficult choice which is not always voluntary. She has a lot going on and her husband and father-in-law understand some of these issues and seem to always surprise her with their actions. A difficult case to solve along with issues in her personal life bring lots of realism to the storyline. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I can’t wait to read more in this series. I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
December 21, 2023
The Star of Justice Series:
An interesting series from one of my newly found favorite authors. A strong clear writing style and knowledgeable on the Rules of English and about Law Enforcement makes Mr. Hammack a must read author. No silly drama, no vulgar language and no explicit sex are important in the books I read, just give me the story. Source: My library or BookSirens.
Back Road Justice, prequel - An interesting, intense introduction to Texas State Troopers C.J. David and David Harper. Source: BookFunnel. 5*
Long Road to Justice, #1 - Rather immersing from the gitgo with all the various and interesting story lines and a cast of good characters, along with a twist or three. Source: My library. 5*
A Murder Redeemed, #2 - Picks up a month after LRTJ ends. A lot of this story is real life in Texas. The MM do steal keys several ways, including come into your home and getting them any time. Not only are cars taken, anything from lawnmowers to dishes to food to clothing, including underwear. There is a network and anyone is a victim. Notice the strange amounts of deranged crowing roosters, psycho barking dogs, maybe a braying mule, looping continuously? That is part of the signals used to warn each other and cover what they are doing in and around a home or business. Don't think the contents of your box at the bank is safe from these criminals. I am one of their victims, including the all out destruction of two homes. This story is a good read. Source: My library. 5*
A Grave Secret, #3 - Picks up during Spring Break. Some good twists and I loved the ending. Source: My library. 5*
Justice On A Midnight Clear, #4 - Picks up in November. Interesting but a little unbelievable with the reactions after the fire, but the story had to end successful somehow. Still a good read. Source: BookSirens. 4*
An interesting series from one of my newly found favorite authors. A strong clear writing style and knowledgeable on the Rules of English and about Law Enforcement makes Mr. Hammack a must read author. No silly drama, no vulgar language and no explicit sex are important in the books I read, just give me the story. Source: My library or BookSirens.
Back Road Justice, prequel - An interesting, intense introduction to Texas State Troopers C.J. David and David Harper. Source: BookFunnel. 5*
Long Road to Justice, #1 - Rather immersing from the gitgo with all the various and interesting story lines and a cast of good characters, along with a twist or three. Source: My library. 5*
A Murder Redeemed, #2 - Picks up a month after LRTJ ends. A lot of this story is real life in Texas. The MM do steal keys several ways, including come into your home and getting them any time. Not only are cars taken, anything from lawnmowers to dishes to food to clothing, including underwear. There is a network and anyone is a victim. Notice the strange amounts of deranged crowing roosters, psycho barking dogs, maybe a braying mule, looping continuously? That is part of the signals used to warn each other and cover what they are doing in and around a home or business. Don't think the contents of your box at the bank is safe from these criminals. I am one of their victims, including the all out destruction of two homes. This story is a good read. Source: My library. 5*
A Grave Secret, #3 - Picks up during Spring Break. Some good twists and I loved the ending. Source: My library. 5*
Justice On A Midnight Clear, #4 - Picks up in November. Interesting but a little unbelievable with the reactions after the fire, but the story had to end successful somehow. Still a good read. Source: BookSirens. 4*
May 14, 2025
It doesn't sound like a love story but it is. Just pay attention to CJ and Dave. It's the normal married couple interaction but stressed by both parties being law enforcement. But look at the subtle signs of love as each supports the other. The belief in each other is outstanding and shows real true love. Of course there are some obvious signs, don't miss them at all.
The story itself provides real police and crime action. Sometimes the very boring stakeouts, sometimes diligent research but always but together the clues - link them so that the full story comes together. Know that truth and justice can only be obtained with due diligence and follow through.
If you were hoping for action, you will not be disappointed. It is fast, its is furious, and pretty realistic when dealing the the evil they are facing.
If you love stories with those elements, then this will be a perfect hit.
The story itself provides real police and crime action. Sometimes the very boring stakeouts, sometimes diligent research but always but together the clues - link them so that the full story comes together. Know that truth and justice can only be obtained with due diligence and follow through.
If you were hoping for action, you will not be disappointed. It is fast, its is furious, and pretty realistic when dealing the the evil they are facing.
If you love stories with those elements, then this will be a perfect hit.
August 5, 2022
Cozy Read
Bruce Hammock books are really good books to read when I am stressed. They are not nail biting edge of my seat books. They are however engaging and interesting enough to keep my attention. There are few authors that I have found that are able to produce this kind of effect. dick Francis being another. I love to read and will pretty much read anything regardless of genre except smut. Except when I am stressed and then I like a book with enough meat to keep me engaged , characters that are well developed as well as ethics and morals. I also really enjoy his positive messages and affirmations that his characters exchange with one another.
Bruce Hammock books are really good books to read when I am stressed. They are not nail biting edge of my seat books. They are however engaging and interesting enough to keep my attention. There are few authors that I have found that are able to produce this kind of effect. dick Francis being another. I love to read and will pretty much read anything regardless of genre except smut. Except when I am stressed and then I like a book with enough meat to keep me engaged , characters that are well developed as well as ethics and morals. I also really enjoy his positive messages and affirmations that his characters exchange with one another.
September 23, 2022
The storyline had so much going on I could not put the book down, I had to find out who did what and what was gonna happen. This book was so exciting and thrilling. It’s amazing to me that an author can write a clean storyline and it be so good!!! This series is a lot more faith based than the other series was. I’ve read a couple of reviews where people don’t care for that but I like it. I watched these characters grow with their experiences and actually feel like I know them. I’m so excited to read the next book!!
October 20, 2023
Joy riders? But when the number of stolen cars begin to rise, it appeared to be much more than that. It didn't help that CJ's boss was in hospital with a ruptured appendix in a critical conditions, and CJ herself, down with a vicious virus as well. And to make matters worse, one of her own crew hated her guts and she suspected that he was the inside man, helping her get fired for incompetence.
I love Bruce Hammack's book and this is no exception. Fast and furious, exciting and interesting but with a big warm heart at the centre of it all. Next one please!
I love Bruce Hammack's book and this is no exception. Fast and furious, exciting and interesting but with a big warm heart at the centre of it all. Next one please!
April 17, 2022
Excellent
This is the best mystery I've read in years.
It's clean,yet the tensi
This is without a doubt the best book and series I've read in years. I wanted to keep on reading till it was finished. After I read the first book,I bought the second one. Thought I would take a break with another book between them. After 2 chapters of another author, I stopped and went to the second one of this author.
This is the best mystery I've read in years.
It's clean,yet the tensi
This is without a doubt the best book and series I've read in years. I wanted to keep on reading till it was finished. After I read the first book,I bought the second one. Thought I would take a break with another book between them. After 2 chapters of another author, I stopped and went to the second one of this author.
March 4, 2025
Totally immersive reading. I wad so engrossed in finding out who the bad guys were, and if CJ and David would live to see the capture and arrest. These bad guys meant business at all costs. The corruption isn't limited to uniforms. It's nonstop thrilling edge of your seat yoydrama from characters you invest in from the first chapter of the book. The ending was great, and I was able to take a deep breath- finally!
February 22, 2021
Hooks you from the first page. Lots of twists and turns with plenty of drama thrown in. Intrigue and mystery keep you turning the pages. Interesting characters with interesting dialogue and good interaction. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2026
What makes this book stand out is its strong balance between action and character development. CJ isn’t just chasing criminals, she’s dealing with grief, pressure, and leadership challenges, which adds a realistic and human layer to the story. As the investigation deepens, the plot expands into the dangerous world of organized crime, keeping readers engaged with constant twists and rising tension
January 3, 2022
Caught my attention from the very beginning and kept it through all the twists and turns of the story.Enjoy the author's works--this is the second series I have read and with each book I like him more. Recommend reading.
March 22, 2023
Page turner
Love Bruce's books. His stories grab you and take you for a great ride. This book is about car theft in a college town and mid Texas. He keeps you guessing who is behind the missing cars. You will enjoy this one!
Love Bruce's books. His stories grab you and take you for a great ride. This book is about car theft in a college town and mid Texas. He keeps you guessing who is behind the missing cars. You will enjoy this one!
May 25, 2025
Forgiveness
CJ is forced by circumstance to face many obstacles both personal and professional, but her faith and determination prevail. Great book with excellent characters and plot.
CJ is forced by circumstance to face many obstacles both personal and professional, but her faith and determination prevail. Great book with excellent characters and plot.
June 5, 2025
CLEAN CRIME MYSTERY
Bruce Hammack always delivers an intriguing criminal storyline with plot twists that keep the reader engaged in all of the action. This is a good one and highly recommended!
Bruce Hammack always delivers an intriguing criminal storyline with plot twists that keep the reader engaged in all of the action. This is a good one and highly recommended!
March 23, 2026
I am liking this series , great story line in each so far. Characters are believable and interesting. Just getting started on the next in the series. The author always grabs my attention right off and I quickly read through the book .
July 26, 2021
Keeps your interest
I enjoyed reading all Bruce’s books so far as Nd are looking for more. I’ve always enjoyed s hood mystery.
I enjoyed reading all Bruce’s books so far as Nd are looking for more. I’ve always enjoyed s hood mystery.
April 24, 2022
Loved it, this author never disappoints. The story moves and is always intriguing.
May 27, 2023
Wow!
I loved this book. Each book just keeps getting better. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages until the end.
I loved this book. Each book just keeps getting better. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages until the end.
July 17, 2023
Awesome!
Great read, kept me captivated to the end. Definitely recommend and can’t wait for the next book !!!! Definite surprise ending.
Great read, kept me captivated to the end. Definitely recommend and can’t wait for the next book !!!! Definite surprise ending.
October 19, 2023
I liked this book; it was a fast read, I enjoyed the characters and it had a very satisfying conclusion. I rate it 5 stars.
November 25, 2023
Excellent Read
I don’t usually purchase books. After reading the 1st book in this series (1st one was a freebie), I had to have them all. A great read.
I don’t usually purchase books. After reading the 1st book in this series (1st one was a freebie), I had to have them all. A great read.
December 2, 2023
Wow!
I throughly enjoyed this clean mystery story and the relationship between CJ and David. Very well written with a good mix of dialog and action.
I throughly enjoyed this clean mystery story and the relationship between CJ and David. Very well written with a good mix of dialog and action.
May 15, 2025
Outstanding
Highly recommend. Provides indepth view of the human side of policing. Love watching CJ evolve in both her marriage and career.
Highly recommend. Provides indepth view of the human side of policing. Love watching CJ evolve in both her marriage and career.
August 22, 2025
Fun read
A good who done it! I didn’t want it to end! The characters are interesting as is the plot line!
A good who done it! I didn’t want it to end! The characters are interesting as is the plot line!
September 24, 2025
Another great cozy mystery in the series set in Texas with interesting characters and positive inspirational outlook as part of plot. Clean read.
July 19, 2021
I'd been looking forward to this book since reading the first installment of the Star of Justice series, and author Bruce Hammack just gets better and better. I was quickly drawn in to CJ's world as assistant chief of police for Agape University. She's tough but vulnerable, and I love the tender but witty interaction between her and her lawman husband. The story feels emotionally real on several levels--from crime-fighting, to supportive friendships, to the ups and downs of married life. I'll definitely be reading more from Mr. Hammack.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews