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Detective Virgil Jones #12
State of Life: A Mystery Thriller Novel
A strange request from a trusted source has Detective Virgil Jones looking into the past, and when he does, he'll not only be forced to face his own demons, but his father's as well.
Decades ago, Marion County Sheriff Mason Jones investigated the disappearance of a young female cross-country runner who didn't return home after a local high school competition. No ransom was ever demanded, and the only piece of evidence ever recovered was a single running shoe with a spot of blood that had seeped into the laces. After a long and exhaustive search, the missing girl was never found, and eventually, the investigation was listed as unsolved. The case notes and shoe were boxed up and stuck in an evidence locker where they'd wither and die, just like the young female athlete. What Mason didn't realize at the time was this: The missing girl wasn't the only one abducted. Over the years, there'd been more. Many more...
Virgil Jones, lead detective for the state's Major Crimes Unit is still struggling after the loss of a friend and coworker. Ron Miles was ambushed and shot to death on a previous case while rounding up the last holdout of a group of drug-runners in Southern Indiana. Virgil and Ron had weathered a tenuous relationship over the years, but Virgil's guilt over putting Ron into a position that ultimately cost him his life is tearing him apart...
In French Lick, Indiana, just south of the Lost River, an elderly man is found dead in his garage. His morning newspaper and cup of coffee are sitting on the workbench next to his chair. In one hand he held an unlit cigarette; in the other a simple Bic lighter. His head is tipped back in the chair as if he might have experienced the most tranquil death anyone could ever hope for. The family, the authorities, and even the emergency medical personnel all agreed...it looked like he'd simply closed his eyes to rest, then peacefully drifted off to wherever the dead go when their time comes. But time is mysterious, looks can be deceiving, and as Virgil Jones is about to discover, the death of the elderly man will unravel a mystery that began decades ago, one where lives were lost, and black-hearted killers had few, if any boundaries.
Decades ago, Marion County Sheriff Mason Jones investigated the disappearance of a young female cross-country runner who didn't return home after a local high school competition. No ransom was ever demanded, and the only piece of evidence ever recovered was a single running shoe with a spot of blood that had seeped into the laces. After a long and exhaustive search, the missing girl was never found, and eventually, the investigation was listed as unsolved. The case notes and shoe were boxed up and stuck in an evidence locker where they'd wither and die, just like the young female athlete. What Mason didn't realize at the time was this: The missing girl wasn't the only one abducted. Over the years, there'd been more. Many more...
Virgil Jones, lead detective for the state's Major Crimes Unit is still struggling after the loss of a friend and coworker. Ron Miles was ambushed and shot to death on a previous case while rounding up the last holdout of a group of drug-runners in Southern Indiana. Virgil and Ron had weathered a tenuous relationship over the years, but Virgil's guilt over putting Ron into a position that ultimately cost him his life is tearing him apart...
In French Lick, Indiana, just south of the Lost River, an elderly man is found dead in his garage. His morning newspaper and cup of coffee are sitting on the workbench next to his chair. In one hand he held an unlit cigarette; in the other a simple Bic lighter. His head is tipped back in the chair as if he might have experienced the most tranquil death anyone could ever hope for. The family, the authorities, and even the emergency medical personnel all agreed...it looked like he'd simply closed his eyes to rest, then peacefully drifted off to wherever the dead go when their time comes. But time is mysterious, looks can be deceiving, and as Virgil Jones is about to discover, the death of the elderly man will unravel a mystery that began decades ago, one where lives were lost, and black-hearted killers had few, if any boundaries.
426 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2021
About the author
Thomas L. Scott
29 books29 followersThomas Scott is the bestselling author of the award winning Virgil Jones Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Series, set in the heartland of the Midwest.
Thomas lives in northern Indiana with his lovely wife, Debra, his children, and his trusty sidekick and writing buddies, Lucy, the cat, and Buster the dog, where he is hard at work on the next Virgil Jones novel.
Thomas lives in northern Indiana with his lovely wife, Debra, his children, and his trusty sidekick and writing buddies, Lucy, the cat, and Buster the dog, where he is hard at work on the next Virgil Jones novel.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 14, 2021
Excellent Read
Enjoyed this cast of characters in another case solved in their own unique style. If you have never read any of the Virgil Jones series then you are missing out on a real treat.
Enjoyed this cast of characters in another case solved in their own unique style. If you have never read any of the Virgil Jones series then you are missing out on a real treat.
August 14, 2021
A definite must read book and series
I have been hooked on this series since the beginning, and I'm hoping that there will be many more to come. With wonderful characters, humor, drama, mystery, suspense, action, as well as intriguing twists and turns, it's certainly not a series that you'll want to miss! I love watching this unconventional group (which is more like a huge family) continue growing. There's still a few that I hope will get their own HEA too!
Although each book could be read as a stand alone, I would highly recommend thatyou read the entire series from the beginning. By reading the entire series, you will have a better understanding of the characters, situations, and the dynamics between them all. Each story is fantastic, and you definitely won't be disappointed.
I'm hoping that more will be available soon!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
I have been hooked on this series since the beginning, and I'm hoping that there will be many more to come. With wonderful characters, humor, drama, mystery, suspense, action, as well as intriguing twists and turns, it's certainly not a series that you'll want to miss! I love watching this unconventional group (which is more like a huge family) continue growing. There's still a few that I hope will get their own HEA too!
Although each book could be read as a stand alone, I would highly recommend thatyou read the entire series from the beginning. By reading the entire series, you will have a better understanding of the characters, situations, and the dynamics between them all. Each story is fantastic, and you definitely won't be disappointed.
I'm hoping that more will be available soon!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
Read
August 27, 2021Not.bad.
Endearing characters, fantastical, unreal situations make for a fun story if taken with a huge.dose of.salt. Always entertaining even when I wish that a bit more research were used. I have an unusual history of working in many industries from farming to foundry, baking to funeral home. I worked on the Marble Hill Nuclear Power Plant as a concrete finisher and as a Laborer. I've chopped and suckered tobacco in the Madison Indiana area. Living in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and finally Alaska has given me a different view of Native Culture than depicted. I find many quibbles with the tropes that Mr. Scott relies upon, and yet in the end the stories are fun. Sometimes tone deaf and politically incorrect, if not out right offensive, but always done rather well. A better editor/ publisher would call out such issues.
Writers need much more than copy editing and cheerleaders for support.
Endearing characters, fantastical, unreal situations make for a fun story if taken with a huge.dose of.salt. Always entertaining even when I wish that a bit more research were used. I have an unusual history of working in many industries from farming to foundry, baking to funeral home. I worked on the Marble Hill Nuclear Power Plant as a concrete finisher and as a Laborer. I've chopped and suckered tobacco in the Madison Indiana area. Living in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and finally Alaska has given me a different view of Native Culture than depicted. I find many quibbles with the tropes that Mr. Scott relies upon, and yet in the end the stories are fun. Sometimes tone deaf and politically incorrect, if not out right offensive, but always done rather well. A better editor/ publisher would call out such issues.
Writers need much more than copy editing and cheerleaders for support.
August 17, 2021
Virgil, Murton, Sandy, Becky, Nichole, Nicky, Wu, Mac, Cool, and the rest of the gang are back, in the best yet of this series.
This time, they're tracking a serial killer, one whose crimes stretch back many years.
Has more than its share of heart-thumping action.
Doesn't have the really deep depths that a few of the previous books have had. But there is still plenty of meat on those bones.
A deeply satisfying read, one that is almost impossible to put down.
This time, they're tracking a serial killer, one whose crimes stretch back many years.
Has more than its share of heart-thumping action.
Doesn't have the really deep depths that a few of the previous books have had. But there is still plenty of meat on those bones.
A deeply satisfying read, one that is almost impossible to put down.
August 27, 2021
Best Summer read of 2021
Best Summer reads of 2021
Just finished all twelve Thomas Scott books in the Virgil Jones series. I started right after the 4th of July. Read a book or two each week because I was unable to put the stories down. Being retired law enforcement both state and municipal level. I loved the cop jokes. Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
Best Summer reads of 2021
Just finished all twelve Thomas Scott books in the Virgil Jones series. I started right after the 4th of July. Read a book or two each week because I was unable to put the stories down. Being retired law enforcement both state and municipal level. I loved the cop jokes. Keep writing and I'll keep reading.
November 8, 2021
I have read the entire series. I feel like a member of the extended Virgil Jones/Murton family.
If u decide to read....please start with the beginning novel. You
too will get to know the characters on a personal level. You will not regret it
Ending of this particular book is awesome. Incredible author
If u decide to read....please start with the beginning novel. You
too will get to know the characters on a personal level. You will not regret it
Ending of this particular book is awesome. Incredible author
August 10, 2021
Exceptional book!!
I have read all of the Virgil Jones novels. They are all excellent! I highly recommend them. Read them in order. It makes it much more fun!! As a reader, you grow with the characters.
I have read all of the Virgil Jones novels. They are all excellent! I highly recommend them. Read them in order. It makes it much more fun!! As a reader, you grow with the characters.
October 9, 2021
Great cast
The characters in this series of books are among the best I've read. I thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series. Each character has a defined personality and the banter between them adds great depth to the story.
The characters in this series of books are among the best I've read. I thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series. Each character has a defined personality and the banter between them adds great depth to the story.
November 8, 2021
I'm totally hooked on this series. Each book seams to get better. I'm 75, and cannot ever remember being so immotionally involved with a series. I'm doing my best to keep up with the Joneses for the first time in my life.
Read
August 25, 2023They just keep getting better !!
This book was all I could ask for in an "escape plan" from retirement. Thomas Scott outdid himself on this one and I enjoyed it. Please pick up any of this series. I'm certain you will be "wrapped up" in this adventure !!
This book was all I could ask for in an "escape plan" from retirement. Thomas Scott outdid himself on this one and I enjoyed it. Please pick up any of this series. I'm certain you will be "wrapped up" in this adventure !!
January 22, 2024
When sports aren't quite sporting
Another winner by Thomas Scott. More MCU people in danger, young girls disappearing over decades and no clues to follow. Dysfunctional family squabbles. Great job!
Another winner by Thomas Scott. More MCU people in danger, young girls disappearing over decades and no clues to follow. Dysfunctional family squabbles. Great job!
February 5, 2025
how does each book get better ?
Love the stories and the characters as I have said Thomas Scott has a way I can’t describe it! I want to go on on on but I need to get to the next book
Love the stories and the characters as I have said Thomas Scott has a way I can’t describe it! I want to go on on on but I need to get to the next book
February 7, 2026
Brilliant
This has me emotional again and I had only just got through the first 10% of the story. I'm many ways the best in the series, so far. Can't wait to get into the next one.
This has me emotional again and I had only just got through the first 10% of the story. I'm many ways the best in the series, so far. Can't wait to get into the next one.
August 7, 2021
Another nail biter!
I’ve read all of the books in this series and feel like it’s been the best one yet. I hope they’ll be another. I’m totally hooked!
I’ve read all of the books in this series and feel like it’s been the best one yet. I hope they’ll be another. I’m totally hooked!
August 7, 2021
Excellent storyline. Better ending.
August 8, 2021
Another good one
Love this series and it’s characters. This one is so good. It just keeps getting better. Can’t wait for the next installment.
Love this series and it’s characters. This one is so good. It just keeps getting better. Can’t wait for the next installment.
August 8, 2021
Another great read.
This book was a fast paced page turner.
Virgil and his homies took care of a couple bad guys in their own special fashion.
I'll be ready for # 13.
This book was a fast paced page turner.
Virgil and his homies took care of a couple bad guys in their own special fashion.
I'll be ready for # 13.
August 11, 2021
Sadly I just finished book 12
All I can say other than I have read a lot of big name authors and Mr Scott is in a class all his own. I WANT MORE
All I can say other than I have read a lot of big name authors and Mr Scott is in a class all his own. I WANT MORE
August 26, 2021
Mcu rockt
The fact rule isn't for any company in public either in general office? If the yay options have made us do
The fact rule isn't for any company in public either in general office? If the yay options have made us do
September 19, 2021
This whole series is just pure enjoyment. I can’t wait for each new book to become available. A little of everything!
September 30, 2021
Love this series!
This series is one of my all time favorites. Well written, fast paced, sad, funny and really tugs at your heart sometimes. Can’t put it down until it’s finished.
This series is one of my all time favorites. Well written, fast paced, sad, funny and really tugs at your heart sometimes. Can’t put it down until it’s finished.
February 15, 2022
Evil is in the world
Sorrowful story of the reality that exists in our world today, would that girls were more vigilant and aware and men much more chivalrous, well done Mr Scott
Sorrowful story of the reality that exists in our world today, would that girls were more vigilant and aware and men much more chivalrous, well done Mr Scott
February 20, 2022
A must read!!!
I love the characters in all of his books.His books are like watching a movie,the characters jump from the pages.Book 13 is next for me!Keep them coming Mr.Scott.
I love the characters in all of his books.His books are like watching a movie,the characters jump from the pages.Book 13 is next for me!Keep them coming Mr.Scott.
June 5, 2022
This series...
I have read all of the books in this series, thus far and they are all amazing reads!!! Thomas Scott is a great writer😀
I have read all of the books in this series, thus far and they are all amazing reads!!! Thomas Scott is a great writer😀
June 5, 2022
Another great book in this series! Characters are very easy to love. (or hate, accordingly) The story moves quickly and keeps you hooked. I can't wait to read his next.
August 21, 2023
No disappointment again.
I can't say anything different from all my other remarks. He is a fabulous writer that keeps your attention from all angles.
I can't say anything different from all my other remarks. He is a fabulous writer that keeps your attention from all angles.
August 6, 2021
Book 12
Thomas Scott is an amazing author. It's hard to put the book down. It has many twists and turns and holds your interest. I highly recommend it.
Thomas Scott is an amazing author. It's hard to put the book down. It has many twists and turns and holds your interest. I highly recommend it.
July 31, 2024
YAY! I FINALLY FIGURED OUT ONE OF MASON'S CRYPTIC CLUES. I COULD HARDLY BELIEVE IT. SMILING! ANOTHER GREAT ONE, WHEW, GLAD EVERYONE WHO SHOULD MADE IT TO BE IN ANOTHER BOOK. ;D
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews