What do you think?
Rate this book
Star of Justice #3
A Grave Secret
College students are dying…
CJ must stop the deadly menace.
Moonshine and fentanyl are wreaking havoc on her campus. One student already paid the ultimate price. As assistant chief of police, it’s up to CJ to rid the campus of the lethal threat. In the meantime, the body count goes up in nearby communities.
While CJ and her team work to discover the source of the illicit substances, another body is found. The murder points to a calculating drug lord from CJ’s past… and he plays for keeps. The name that’s haunted her dreams ignites her worst fears.
His deadly reign must end, but will the cost be more than CJ’s willing to pay?
A Grave Secret is a clean read police procedural filled with action, suspense and an ending you won’t see coming!
CJ must stop the deadly menace.
Moonshine and fentanyl are wreaking havoc on her campus. One student already paid the ultimate price. As assistant chief of police, it’s up to CJ to rid the campus of the lethal threat. In the meantime, the body count goes up in nearby communities.
While CJ and her team work to discover the source of the illicit substances, another body is found. The murder points to a calculating drug lord from CJ’s past… and he plays for keeps. The name that’s haunted her dreams ignites her worst fears.
His deadly reign must end, but will the cost be more than CJ’s willing to pay?
A Grave Secret is a clean read police procedural filled with action, suspense and an ending you won’t see coming!
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2021
197 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Hammack
49 books422 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...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 12, 2025
Another clean cozy mystery set in Texas. Have enjoyed every series this author has written.
June 25, 2021
I loved book 3 and a great addition to the series. It was very enthralling and kept me reading a bit too late in the night. Yes, I wanted to know what happened next and it definitely kept me on the edge of my seat. It is a well written book. The author is a very talented author and the book keeps you spellbound. And it's a clean read!
I really enjoyed his writing style. Well worth your time. And I recommend this great work of fiction that seems real. I can really see the events happening to someone.
This book was filled with lots of action, tension and mystery. As with the other two books in the series It was an engaging mystery. It was modern, up-to-date in crimes that are prevalent in our time.
CJ was at work again trying to find out the culprit behind the deaths. I really recommend this to all mystery & suspense genre fans!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
I really enjoyed his writing style. Well worth your time. And I recommend this great work of fiction that seems real. I can really see the events happening to someone.
This book was filled with lots of action, tension and mystery. As with the other two books in the series It was an engaging mystery. It was modern, up-to-date in crimes that are prevalent in our time.
CJ was at work again trying to find out the culprit behind the deaths. I really recommend this to all mystery & suspense genre fans!
I received an ebook copy from the author. All thoughts are my own.
June 17, 2021
I have not ever read a clean crime mystery before and was pleasantly surprised that the author is so good and he writes a an awesome story filled with twists and turns. It is so good it was hard to put the book down I just had to know who did what. I really like the characters and the plot line. I can’t wait to read more of his books!!
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 12, 2022
I received an ARC through Booksirens and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with David and CJ learning of the death of an ACU student. The results of the autopsy showed that she died of fentenyl poisoning. The hospital had a previous case brought in that same night, but this patient lived. As Cj and her team searched for evidence, it was learned that there were more issues on campus as well. It seems that "Moonshine" was being sold as well.
In order to crackdown on the drug sales, a task force was established and both CJ and David were on it. Later, as a result of another killing, they were able to get closer to solving it. CJ was able to ultimately discover and bring to a head the individual responsible for the "Moonshine" sales. A suspect for a killing of a drug dealer was finally brought to trial.
To learn what the results of the trial were, what kind of efforts were being made regarding ACU and what news did CJ learn, then you need to read this book. It is well worth your time.
The story begins with David and CJ learning of the death of an ACU student. The results of the autopsy showed that she died of fentenyl poisoning. The hospital had a previous case brought in that same night, but this patient lived. As Cj and her team searched for evidence, it was learned that there were more issues on campus as well. It seems that "Moonshine" was being sold as well.
In order to crackdown on the drug sales, a task force was established and both CJ and David were on it. Later, as a result of another killing, they were able to get closer to solving it. CJ was able to ultimately discover and bring to a head the individual responsible for the "Moonshine" sales. A suspect for a killing of a drug dealer was finally brought to trial.
To learn what the results of the trial were, what kind of efforts were being made regarding ACU and what news did CJ learn, then you need to read this book. It is well worth your time.
April 15, 2022
A good, well written clean story
This is the third book I've read by this author. It's such a pleasure to read a book that doesn't depend on explicit sex scenes or swear words to sell the book. Characters are likeable and well developed. The ending of this particular story was very abrupt and not very satisfying although making it obvious what happened. Not to be a spoiler, but I figured out what was going to happen and by whom long before the end just not the specifics. Regardless, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story with lots of twists and turns.
This is the third book I've read by this author. It's such a pleasure to read a book that doesn't depend on explicit sex scenes or swear words to sell the book. Characters are likeable and well developed. The ending of this particular story was very abrupt and not very satisfying although making it obvious what happened. Not to be a spoiler, but I figured out what was going to happen and by whom long before the end just not the specifics. Regardless, I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good story with lots of twists and turns.
October 27, 2023
There will always be a smart alec who defies the rules and does not manage to get caught and one young student was the very one - until karma catches up on her and her dead body turns up. But the drugs and moonshine continues, and in fact appear to escalate. Has the vacuum attracted another small time drug pusher or is there more than meets the eye?
As always, Bruce Hammack's books work well as a standalone, but to fully appreciate them. I would recommend reading them in order, which I did and boy are they all good! Exciting, clever and interesting, a rocking great mystery with a heart; cannot get enough of them!
As always, Bruce Hammack's books work well as a standalone, but to fully appreciate them. I would recommend reading them in order, which I did and boy are they all good! Exciting, clever and interesting, a rocking great mystery with a heart; cannot get enough of them!
January 8, 2024
Another amazing Bruce Hammack book.
Again, the focus is on Agape Christian University in Texas where CJ is the assistant chief of police. This time she’s facing a moonshine ring lacing it with fentanyl. Her task, with the assistance of her husband, David, is to locate the person responsible for the death of one student and the killer of another student. What a ride.
A bit of an odd ending in my opinion, but I’ll leave that to the next reader to decide.
Very clean suspense, book with a mild faith arc.
Again, the focus is on Agape Christian University in Texas where CJ is the assistant chief of police. This time she’s facing a moonshine ring lacing it with fentanyl. Her task, with the assistance of her husband, David, is to locate the person responsible for the death of one student and the killer of another student. What a ride.
A bit of an odd ending in my opinion, but I’ll leave that to the next reader to decide.
Very clean suspense, book with a mild faith arc.
August 21, 2025
The author has written another great book on justice. Sometimes the processes of justice are best served by alternate plans of implementation. The reader will be drawn into the scenes as the author paints the picture through words: "It was that magic time between sundown and night, the hour when the sky can’t decide what it wants to wear, so it tries on everything in the closet."
The characters receive the same treatment. You will feel their motivations as the facts of this case are slowly dug up.
The characters receive the same treatment. You will feel their motivations as the facts of this case are slowly dug up.
October 24, 2024
Shady Ethics
This third book in the Star of Justice series has murky resolutions to very serious concerns. This reads more like bent justice in a faulty system, than Godly men and women fulfilling their purpose as officers of the law. Although I don’t agree with how this book ends, it is a powerfully written piece that provides insight into the ripples caused by the death of a victim of drugs and violence.
This third book in the Star of Justice series has murky resolutions to very serious concerns. This reads more like bent justice in a faulty system, than Godly men and women fulfilling their purpose as officers of the law. Although I don’t agree with how this book ends, it is a powerfully written piece that provides insight into the ripples caused by the death of a victim of drugs and violence.
February 27, 2025
This was another great action/drama filled story by this author . The drug problem is very relatable to today's statistics. I especially empathized with families that lost young people with so much unexplored talent that will never be realized besides the
emotional repercussions. Chefs kiss to Pancho. Sometimes you have to color outside the lines. I loved his tenacity and ethics. I believe the only good drug dealer is a dead drug dealer. A riveting read.
emotional repercussions. Chefs kiss to Pancho. Sometimes you have to color outside the lines. I loved his tenacity and ethics. I believe the only good drug dealer is a dead drug dealer. A riveting read.
November 6, 2021
Another winner from Bruce Hammack
CJ and her husband David Harper love in Texas. CJ works for ACU as a university police superintendent. David is a sergeant for the police. They are after a killer who makes poison moonshine and sells it to university students, resulting in several deaths.
CJ and her husband David Harper love in Texas. CJ works for ACU as a university police superintendent. David is a sergeant for the police. They are after a killer who makes poison moonshine and sells it to university students, resulting in several deaths.
July 20, 2022
Good read
Good story, stayed on track and didn't get bogged down. Was also very refreshing to read a story without all the bad language in it! I don't understand why intelligent authors have to lower themselves with that kind of language. I will definitely be following this author!
Good story, stayed on track and didn't get bogged down. Was also very refreshing to read a story without all the bad language in it! I don't understand why intelligent authors have to lower themselves with that kind of language. I will definitely be following this author!
November 12, 2025
A great book in a great series!
I have now read all 4 books in the Star of Justice Series and loved them all! The characters and stories are realistic and exciting! It’s so refreshing to read a law enforcement novel with compassionate and complex characters. I hope Bruce Hammack will add more books to this series!
I have now read all 4 books in the Star of Justice Series and loved them all! The characters and stories are realistic and exciting! It’s so refreshing to read a law enforcement novel with compassionate and complex characters. I hope Bruce Hammack will add more books to this series!
September 15, 2022
I recommend
This is a page-turning, clean mystery with a surprise ending that you’ll love! A good story in another of Mr. Hammack’s series.
This is a page-turning, clean mystery with a surprise ending that you’ll love! A good story in another of Mr. Hammack’s series.
January 7, 2023
Captivating
This author writes some of the best stories. His characters are believable and the plots riveting. I love that they are free of foul language and sex.
This author writes some of the best stories. His characters are believable and the plots riveting. I love that they are free of foul language and sex.
May 28, 2023
I loved this book. This book kept me on my toes trying to guess who did it. It sent me on a roller coaster from start to finish.
October 30, 2023
This was a terrific series! I enjoyed each book and the characters in them and hope there will be more. I also rate this one 5 stars.
July 9, 2024
A Grave Secret book 3
Well, you've got drugs, moonshine and murder in this book to keep you on your toes. CJ and David get more than one surprise. Good story.
Well, you've got drugs, moonshine and murder in this book to keep you on your toes. CJ and David get more than one surprise. Good story.
November 11, 2025
FUN READ!
I spent tine at Ft Hood after Vietnam. Was good to hear the names of the towns we’d been to 50 years ago. Story is well told and family friendly!! Great reading!
I spent tine at Ft Hood after Vietnam. Was good to hear the names of the towns we’d been to 50 years ago. Story is well told and family friendly!! Great reading!
June 29, 2021
This is book three of the Star of Justice series and the main characters are CJ and David Harper. CJ is the Assistant Chief of Police on a college campus and is suddenly faced with the death of a young student at a campus party, where moonshine was being drunk from plastic water bottles and somehow fentanyl was also suspected. Another three young women were brought in after fentanyl was discovered by the hospital doctor, but they were all just drunk. The doctor mentions that it is not the first case of someone brought in with a fentanyl overdose, but the other young person was lucky that the ambulance people gave them narcan immediately. Where these two dangerous substances are coming from will affect young people from a wide area, not just the college campus, and also get David and their friend Alice, the college principal involved as her job is threatened. CJ and David end up joining a task force as the body count soon starts to rise in nearby communities. CJ has to focus on the college campus, but stopping this influx is much more difficult than the usual weed dealers they have some knowledge of.
CJ and David also have some issues at home, as his father finally moves out of their trailer in the barn, and they allow young Randy to move in after his abusive father is released from jail and attacks him. Their trust in him gets broken when they return from a short break and David seemingly can’t entirely forgive Randy for the harm he has caused his family, and pushes him off the property. Even forbidding him from coming back to the barn to help David’s father Bob in renovating old cars. The only clues for CJ are through their suspected leader of the weed dealers, a very intelligent student called Amy, but there is also a rich looking young man on the scene called Peter Sparks, who was seen arguing with Amy, before she herself disappears. It seems a new and much bigger player is involved in the drugs trade locally and is trying to take over existing drug dealers networks and isn’t taking no for an answer. When another body of a student is found, off campus this time and in a neighbouring county, the evidence soon links to a drug lord with close family ties to Bigalou Murphy, who had tried to kill her when she was just a Texas Highway Patrol Officer, and she had to defend herself with deadly force. She still wears the scars from that attack on her face and mind.
Evidence is found linking his brother, Tig Murphy to Amy’s death and David assures CJ that they have a watertight case against him, with the neighbouring force handling all the evidence from the killer’s home, as well as the victim’s car. The uncle of the first college victim Holly, is a former army veteran who suffered a severe brain injury after being blown up in an IED explosion. Pancho keeps hassling CJ’s boss for news about who was behind her death and threatens to kill the person responsible, if the police don’t get their man! Alice is under threat of being kicked out of her job, by regents worried about the reputation of the college, if the drug and moonshine influx doesn’t get stopped immediately. They are also trying to hold her relationship to Bob, who was wrongly convicted of murder and spent time in prison until he could prove his innocence and be cleared of the original crime. A huge settlement from the authorities has given him the freedom to choose where to live and what to do. When the quickly arranged trial starts, CJ and David have concerns over the defence team’s lack of challenges and are hit with a bombshell. Right when CJ and David are experiencing a new phase in their life together, the prosecution brings about some very deep thoughts and serious moral issues about ultimate retribution and which is the correct course of action. Another twisting tale of crime and close relationships, from a loving couple trying to help others, both at home and at work, and having to deal with whatever happens, as best as their prayers allow. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
CJ and David also have some issues at home, as his father finally moves out of their trailer in the barn, and they allow young Randy to move in after his abusive father is released from jail and attacks him. Their trust in him gets broken when they return from a short break and David seemingly can’t entirely forgive Randy for the harm he has caused his family, and pushes him off the property. Even forbidding him from coming back to the barn to help David’s father Bob in renovating old cars. The only clues for CJ are through their suspected leader of the weed dealers, a very intelligent student called Amy, but there is also a rich looking young man on the scene called Peter Sparks, who was seen arguing with Amy, before she herself disappears. It seems a new and much bigger player is involved in the drugs trade locally and is trying to take over existing drug dealers networks and isn’t taking no for an answer. When another body of a student is found, off campus this time and in a neighbouring county, the evidence soon links to a drug lord with close family ties to Bigalou Murphy, who had tried to kill her when she was just a Texas Highway Patrol Officer, and she had to defend herself with deadly force. She still wears the scars from that attack on her face and mind.
Evidence is found linking his brother, Tig Murphy to Amy’s death and David assures CJ that they have a watertight case against him, with the neighbouring force handling all the evidence from the killer’s home, as well as the victim’s car. The uncle of the first college victim Holly, is a former army veteran who suffered a severe brain injury after being blown up in an IED explosion. Pancho keeps hassling CJ’s boss for news about who was behind her death and threatens to kill the person responsible, if the police don’t get their man! Alice is under threat of being kicked out of her job, by regents worried about the reputation of the college, if the drug and moonshine influx doesn’t get stopped immediately. They are also trying to hold her relationship to Bob, who was wrongly convicted of murder and spent time in prison until he could prove his innocence and be cleared of the original crime. A huge settlement from the authorities has given him the freedom to choose where to live and what to do. When the quickly arranged trial starts, CJ and David have concerns over the defence team’s lack of challenges and are hit with a bombshell. Right when CJ and David are experiencing a new phase in their life together, the prosecution brings about some very deep thoughts and serious moral issues about ultimate retribution and which is the correct course of action. Another twisting tale of crime and close relationships, from a loving couple trying to help others, both at home and at work, and having to deal with whatever happens, as best as their prayers allow. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 13, 2021
CJ is campus police, and her husband David is a Texas Ranger (Sargent). They have known each other for 10 years, but only been married for one. Fortunately, they make an excellent team, because someone is preying on college kids, and the danger may become more widespread.
This isn't a typical college town mystery, because things aren't left to "campus security." Fortunately, CJ is in charge (sort-of) and our connection to this world. She is the anchor of common sense and thinking things through before she does them--usually.
CJ is trying to keep the campus as safe as possible while solving a homicide, missing person case, and strange drug combinations that are killing people. Then add the multiple stresses of her home life, recently past trauma, and problems of the university president. So, things are busy, but she wants to be busy so she doesn't ruminate too much.
David has a case that may be connected, and asks CJ to to join the investigation task force. Something she does well. And it's good to work together again.
This book is well written to draw the reader into the world and CJ's view of circumstances (not her voice). She is uniquely placed to see and hear events, and is a strong, smart character.
There were two obvious breaks in the story; one is after David watches a tornado and begins to help victims & when he gets home. This is understandable. The events and rescues were not important to the story, but David's process of sharing the experience-- unburdening himself--was important.
The second break was when CJ started to give David some news that would make him happy & and an unspecified time later. There was no reaction from David to news, and it deserved at least a remark about his reaction--even if we weren't "there to see it." He doesn't make a single comment about it during the book. Even if he is too nervous to hope about a good outcome, there should be something!
About Nancy. Who is she to David and CJ, aside from a great girl who was in desperate need? Why take her in permanently? There is no explanation for Nancy & Davey living with the newly married couple. (Did they marry more quickly to take her in?)
Nancy's "relationship" with Randy doesn't quite feel realistic to me based on their pasts and interactions together, but I really liked Nancy and was impressed with her attitudes. Still young, but determined to make a positive future.
I enjoyed the book very much. I like immersive stories like this, that take me inside someone's experience so clearly that I imagine it's dark outside and I can almost hear gravel crunch beneath car tires.
Aside from the things mentioned, I felt part of the events and liked CJ a lot. I liked the way she and her husband were trying to forgive Randy, while still acknowledging that some of their choices hadn't worked very well. They realized it's a process, and that's something few people admit and still keep trying. I liked the active communication in the relationships, and there was no name-calling
I recommend this book to mystery and crime readers, teen and older (tween with parental guidance).
I look forward to reading other books in this series and hope they are of similar quality!
Thanks to the publisher and BookSirens for the free preview of this ebook!
4/5 Stars
This isn't a typical college town mystery, because things aren't left to "campus security." Fortunately, CJ is in charge (sort-of) and our connection to this world. She is the anchor of common sense and thinking things through before she does them--usually.
CJ is trying to keep the campus as safe as possible while solving a homicide, missing person case, and strange drug combinations that are killing people. Then add the multiple stresses of her home life, recently past trauma, and problems of the university president. So, things are busy, but she wants to be busy so she doesn't ruminate too much.
David has a case that may be connected, and asks CJ to to join the investigation task force. Something she does well. And it's good to work together again.
This book is well written to draw the reader into the world and CJ's view of circumstances (not her voice). She is uniquely placed to see and hear events, and is a strong, smart character.
There were two obvious breaks in the story; one is after David watches a tornado and begins to help victims & when he gets home. This is understandable. The events and rescues were not important to the story, but David's process of sharing the experience-- unburdening himself--was important.
The second break was when CJ started to give David some news that would make him happy & and an unspecified time later. There was no reaction from David to news, and it deserved at least a remark about his reaction--even if we weren't "there to see it." He doesn't make a single comment about it during the book. Even if he is too nervous to hope about a good outcome, there should be something!
About Nancy. Who is she to David and CJ, aside from a great girl who was in desperate need? Why take her in permanently? There is no explanation for Nancy & Davey living with the newly married couple. (Did they marry more quickly to take her in?)
Nancy's "relationship" with Randy doesn't quite feel realistic to me based on their pasts and interactions together, but I really liked Nancy and was impressed with her attitudes. Still young, but determined to make a positive future.
I enjoyed the book very much. I like immersive stories like this, that take me inside someone's experience so clearly that I imagine it's dark outside and I can almost hear gravel crunch beneath car tires.
Aside from the things mentioned, I felt part of the events and liked CJ a lot. I liked the way she and her husband were trying to forgive Randy, while still acknowledging that some of their choices hadn't worked very well. They realized it's a process, and that's something few people admit and still keep trying. I liked the active communication in the relationships, and there was no name-calling
I recommend this book to mystery and crime readers, teen and older (tween with parental guidance).
I look forward to reading other books in this series and hope they are of similar quality!
Thanks to the publisher and BookSirens for the free preview of this ebook!
4/5 Stars
July 5, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and found it difficult to put down and for me the book highlights the difference between the law in the United Stands and the United Kingdom which I found interesting. Is is a moving story and raises the danger of alcohol and drugs especially with 1st Year students or Freshmen. The University appears to have their own Assistant Chief of Police, a woman called CJ Harper who is based at the University and has to deal with a rise in students experimenting with moonshine and Fentanyl which is resulting in some deaths and it is her job to stop this happening and catch the pushers. CJ's husband, David is also a Policeman and they work together to catch the pushers. As a sideline CJ's Father is seeing the Principal of the University, a teenager Nancy and her baby Davey is living with CJ and her husband and an abused teenager, Randy, stays in their trailer after his Dad has been released from prison. All these sidelines have an effect in various ways in the way they approach and try to solve the problem. The question is - do they succeed and what effect does it have on the other aspects of their lives.
June 25, 2021
A Grave Secret: Star of Justice Series Book 1 by Bruce Hammack. If you enjoy well written mysteries with outstanding characters, you will love this story. The story is set in Texas at Agape Christian University where one of their students, Holly, is being rushed to the hospital where she dies. CJ is the Assistant Police Chief at the University. With the hospital doctor saying that it seems Holly died of fentanyl and alcohol. Thus the police are looking for who is supplying students with drugs. I felt that this story was fast paced and exciting. Bruce Hammack has written such an interesting story with lots of twists and turns. Although the story ended well, I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
June 27, 2021
Who is Supplying Drugs ? . . .
The story takes place at a university in Texas. CJ is the Assistant Police Chief there. When a student is transported to the hospital and dies, a doctor tentatively confirms that the death was a result of a combination of too much alcohol and fentanyl. Decreased breathing, low blood pressure, coma, and death are the classic stages of fentanyl overdose. Is someone supplying drugs to the students?
With perfect pacing, intriguing characters, and plenty of action, this story will pull the reader in for an exciting mystery. The story has twists and turns along the way to keep the suspense level high, so you won’t want to miss this one. Grab your copy and find out what CJ discovers.
The story takes place at a university in Texas. CJ is the Assistant Police Chief there. When a student is transported to the hospital and dies, a doctor tentatively confirms that the death was a result of a combination of too much alcohol and fentanyl. Decreased breathing, low blood pressure, coma, and death are the classic stages of fentanyl overdose. Is someone supplying drugs to the students?
With perfect pacing, intriguing characters, and plenty of action, this story will pull the reader in for an exciting mystery. The story has twists and turns along the way to keep the suspense level high, so you won’t want to miss this one. Grab your copy and find out what CJ discovers.
January 1, 2022
This is book 3 in this series, with CJ Harper, an officer of the Campus police and her husband, David, a Texas Ranger, and I really wish I’d read the previous books. However, it’s an interesting read, which shows how wide the differences are between different countries police forces and procedures. The story is very relevant today with the use of ever more drugs, leading to deaths amongst students, and how clever some of the dealers are. They also don’t look like what most people think drug users and dealers look like. I enjoyed the main characters and their friends & family, and their back stories seem to be building nicely. A well written and enjoyable read. I look forward to the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 1, 2021
I really enjoy this author’s writing. I am hooked on the Smiley and McBlythe series, so I was pleased to be able to read this book about a whole new set of characters. I found the two main characters to be very likable, and the side characters very interesting. This is a mystery with twists and turns that keeps your interest throughout. I am looking forward to reading the first two books in this series, and more to come in both series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2021
This is the third book in the Star of Justice series. I haven’t read the first two books but didn’t feel like I was missing anything by not having done so. The characters of CJ and David are what keeps the book moving forward. They are well written and real. College students are dying, and CJ knows she must find the source of the dangerous drugs causing those deaths. The storyline is solid, the pacing is excellent, and it keeps you entertained throughout. A good solid police crime drama. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 21, 2021
I was very interested in the storyline of this novel. The war on drugs is a very current topic. The first third of the book kept me hooked and the characters were beginning to grow on me but from there it fell apart. It almost felt like the author ran out of steam and was just covering a couple of bases before ending the book with a weak finish. I was very disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 12, 2021
A Grave Secret: is a Star of Justice Series Book 1 by Bruce Hammack. I f you enjoy a solid story line with well developed books this is the one for you ! This story was fast paced and exciting. Bruce Hammack has written such an interesting story with lots of twists and turns. I c n't get my hands onto his very next books!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews