Someone close to John Jordan is murdered and now he is . . . OUT FOR BLOOD! While investigating the brutal attack of two teenage girls, John Jordan uncovers the shocking secrets someone is willing to kill for, but he never suspects the killer's next victim will be someone he cares about so much. Can he solve two baffling murders and protect those he loves?
New York Times bestselling and award-winning novelist Michael Lister is a native Floridian best known for his literary suspense thrillers as well as his two ongoing mystery series, the prison chaplain John Jordan "Blood" series and the hard-boiled, 1940s noir Jimmy "Soldier" Riley Series, and the post-apocalypic suspense thriller Cataclysmos.
The Florida Book Review says that "Vintage Michael Lister is poetic prose, exquisitely set scenes, characters who are damaged and faulty" and Michael Koryta says, “If you like crime writing with depth, suspense, and sterling prose, you should be reading Michael Lister," while Publisher's Weekly adds, “Lister’s hard-edged prose ranks with the best of contemporary noir fiction.”
Michael grew up in North Florida near the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola River in a small town world famous for tupelo honey.
Truly a regional writer, North Florida is his beat.
Captivated by story since childhood, Michael has a love for language and narrative inspired by the Southern storytelling tradition that captured his imagination and became such a source of meaning and inspiration. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in theology with an emphasis on myth and narrative.
In the early 90s, Michael became the youngest chaplain within the Florida Department of Corrections. For nearly a decade, he served as a contract, staff, then senior chaplain at three different facilities in the Panhandle of Florida—a unique experience that led to his first novel, 1997’s critically acclaimed, POWER IN THE BLOOD. It was the first in a series of popular and celebrated novels featuring ex-cop turned prison chaplain, John Jordan. Subsequent books in the series include BLOOD OF THE LAMB, FLESH AND BLOOD, THE BODY AND THE BLOOD, BLOOD SACRIFICE, and RIVERS TO BLOOD, and each takes readers through the electronically locked gates of the chain-link fences, beneath the looping razor wire glinting in the sun, and into the strange world of Potter Correctional Institution, Florida’s toughest maximum security prison. Of the John Jordan series, Michael Connelly says “Michael Lister may be the author of the most unique series running in mystery fiction. It crackles with tension and authenticity,” while Julia Spencer-Fleming adds “Michael Lister writes one of the most ambitious and unusual crime fiction series going. See what crime fiction is capable of.”
Michael also writes historical hard-boiled thrillers, such as THE BIG GOODBYE, THE BIG BEYOND, and THE BIG HELLO featuring Jimmy "Soldier" Riley, a PI in Panama City during World War II. Ace Atkins calls the "Soldier" series "tough and violent with snappy dialogue and great atmosphere . . . a suspenseful, romantic and historic ride."
Michael Lister won his first Florida Book Award for his literary novel, DOUBLE EXPOSURE, a book, according to the Panama City News Herald, that “is lyrical and literary, written in a sparse but evocative prose reminiscent of Cormac McCarthy.” It is a contemplation of life and death, art and meaning, set deep in the swamps of the Apalachicola River, a thriller about a wildlife photographer whose camera traps capture a crime, that shows the beauty and danger of the Panhandle paradise.
His second Florida Book Award was for his fifth John Jordan novel BLOOD SACRIFICE.
A Powerful Story As John Jordan Runs Into major Trouble Finding A Killer
What an amazing story with my favorite character, showing every bit of John Jordan's love, respect, and patience for all people! No matter who they are, or what they have done, he gets to really know all situations before passing any judgement at all...He continues working on himself, trying to follow a straight path after years of alcohol and turmoil... Two girls are missing, found badly beaten and disfigured...The hunt for the perpetrator is on...But events that happen on the trail to find this person tear John's heart out...And as a long time reader of this series, mine too!! The author writes this fabulous series with his heart wide open, showing family, fear, love, and those who commit crimes in realistic, no holds barred fashion...This is his best yet...An intriguing story that will be in your mind long after you close the book...
Another outstanding John Jordan mystery. It’s impossible to not fall in love with the story. Fast paced, well written to keep you intrigued. John Jordan is amazing at his job. Don’t miss out.
Reggie Summers spoke to her former employees. She lost the Sheriff of Gulf County election. On top of that she/BF Merrick broke up. Reggie would not miss Sheriff Darlene Weatherly (Gulf County, CID). Sheriff Fred Miller (Gulf County) was elected for the position. Captain Matthew Yon (40+, bachelor, Admin. Division) came in to wish Reggie well.
2 girls Ava & Olivia are missing. S&R, Deputy Sheriff’s, highway patrol, wildlife officers, & volunteers are combing the surrounding woods with phones, flashlights, & flares in hands. Carver Landing boat launch/park (Apalachicola River). Althea Colvin (55+, African American, Olivia’s guardian) just arrived. Terrace (Olivia’s 1/2-sister) had some explaining to do to her. Amy Yon Branch (mother) later arrived. Paul Colvin (Big Paw) & Grandmother Althea raise Olivia. The Gulf Correctional K-9 unit arrived at the landing.
Matt & Johnny man the drone.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written crime thriller (short story) book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; unedited preview; BookFunnel; PDF book Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
There is nothing more exciting than a new book from Michael Lister series John Jordan. Its like it just another day after the last book. You know the primary actors and hope none get caught up in the violence of this world we live in today. The twist and turns of the book keep you on your toes, you think you have it figured out but he does it again and you go in the opposite direction 180. The suspense of the next move John makes and who will he pull in to help, makes for a good read. You don't have to read reviews of the actors because they are right beside John in every book of this series. They may not play a key role in every book but may be mentioned in someway or another. When I started this book there was no way I could put it down had it on my Kindle and had to plug in to charge just so I could finish the book. Micheal's description of the area the mood or a beautiful sunset are golden. give this more than 5 stars just can't wait for the next one.
This book grabbed me on the first page and I went on a roller coaster ride page after page as the shock and horror of all that happened pulled me in further until I had to keep reading to find answers. The discombobulated journey we go on until we find the persons responsible for all the bad things is quite a ride. This is one of if not the best John Jordan Book I have read, and I have read them all. Kudos to the author for keeping the writing fresh and exciting. I received a free copy from the editor in return for my voluntary review.
I have read most of the John Jordan series, but this is definitely one of the best. As always it feels like catching up on old friends as the characters are familiar from other John Jordan books. Lots of quite shocking twists and turns kept me turning the pages avidly. Two young girls are missing and a frantic search ensues. Are they found? If so are they alive? I won’t spoil this for other readers, but will only say that the fate of the girls is not the only or the worst shock in this book. Couldn’t put it down.
If you've followed John Jordan for any length of time - one book, two books, twenty books - this will understandably be a shattering episode in John's life, and in your reading experience, as it relates to Michael Lister's prose. If you're new to Michael Lister, then just know this is great reading; exciting and compelling. But you won't regret going back to the beginning with "Power in the Blood" and experiencing the journey in depth. The richness of character, location, and story will be rewarding, without a doubt.
Out for Blood by Michael Lister is a definite read it will keep you on the end of your seat then when you think you have it figured out he will take you down a another avenue that you did not see coming and it will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat and it had my emotions everywhere one minute you were like sitting on the edge of your seat then or at least it had me crying wondering why that particular part happened. Like I said it is a definite must read
A chilling story of two young teen girls, skipping school. Ava was smart, obstinate, and sabotage if you asked her to do something. Olivia was naive, like an air head, innocent to people of what they were really like. What happened to these two, was it planned, or drugs, a mystery to the end. Many lives were lost. A story showing the value of a home life and guidance is needed, and true friendship, at any age. Well done Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
This is one of the best in the John Jordan series yet! There was a big shock in the book that was sad, I won't spoil it for everyone else and the fate of the 2 girls that was missing was a surprise as well. I love the characters and have followed along from the beginning and can't wait for the next book to see what happens with them next. You don't want to miss this one as well as the other books in this series!
Inv. John Jordan and outgoing sheriff Reggie must solve the case of two missing girls. When they are found battered and bruised the stakes are raised. The case becomes a homicide and danger is much closer than they think.
This is an entertaining police procedural. Could have lived without the AA and recovery stuff, ooey gooey home life but the mystery was compelling and the perp a surprise. Terrific read.
Brilliant read This book will keep you guessing right to the end. Two young girls skip school Olivia and Ava what happens next is a terrifying experience. When the girls don't return a search party is sent out looking for them and what they eventually find leads to John Jordan to look for the person responsible for what happened to the girls. Denise
I received an advance copy of this ebook from the author. I have read this entire series and have enjoyed them all. This latest is one of the best in the series. Lister's writing style pulls you in so you feel as if you are right there experiencing everything with his characters. Highly recommended.
I'm more and more disappointed with how maudlin this series has become, how the main character makes the reader feel, at once sorry for him, and then watch as he pats himself on the back with how humble he believes he is. The story is a good one until the end when the narration jumps from to the solution out of no where. I'm going to have to double think additional books in this series.
John at his very best. When a new Sheriff is voted in Reggie and John have one last horrendous crime to solve. Johns skill comes to the fore, only after losing a precious friend to murder in the style of a hit. John of course solves these crimes and learns to work with the new Sheriff. Michael Lister succeeds yet again. A must read.
An intricately constructed mystery that will keep you guessing who done it. I was sure I knew about half way through then, upon further reading, a main character is murdered and I’m back at square one. If you enjoy a great story, finely crafted, you’ll enjoy this read.
Fantastic! John Jordan is a detective and was once a prison chaplain. His character is interesting and a good detective. This book is well into the series and it's clear that John is a better person than he was at one time. I'm interested in the whole process and planning to start with book one. Good mystery that kept me guessing until the end. Highly recommend!!!
I really loved this book. It kept me guessing and the ending was a total surprise. I'm usually able to figure out who done it, but this one had me stumped. Even though I was given a copy of this book by the author, it in no way influenced my opinion and this is my honest review.
As always this books is excellent. I highly recommend it. Well written, page turner, great characters. Love it. No matter how hard I try , I never guess who the killer is. Michael is the best. I received a copy and voluntary leaving a review.
A real page turning mystery with plenty of action and suspense. Keeps you guessing to the very end. Who done it? John Jordan is at his best in this outstanding thriller. Well developed characters and a great location. Highly recommended book and series! Michael Lister with his best book yet!
From the very first word, murder with intrigue, normal people leading normal lives become involved in searching for a cold-blooded killer. The story's solution-and ending- come as a complete surprise. Well done, again.
I live in Northwest Florida where these stories take place. It’s interesting reading about the smaller towns in the surrounding areas. If these stories were true, the conclusions seem to result in a significant dent in the population.
I had some trouble getting into this book; there were quite a few spelling errors and the premise of the book seemed somehow immature (which I don't remember in previous books). Anyway, I'm glad I didn't give up on it, because it turned out to be pretty good. I rate it 4.4 stars.
First time reading Michael Lister and came away rather impressed. Storyline was top notch, characters were good and like a good mystery, a nice surprise ending, didn't see that coming even though there were clues. Recommend.
A twisted tale of two young girls attacked by a river.
Two young girls skipping school meet with violence. Many suspects, but confusion as to who could have attacked the girls. A surprise ending to a crime that seems to have more confusion than answers.
3.5 This is a new author for me.The story was good, but the author is a little too “preachy” for me. The ending..well, no spoiler here. The descriptions of the river and swamp are vivid. Most characters are likable. No, I will not read any more books in this series.The author is talented though.