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The Fighting Detective #3
Trick Shot
A blood-soaked body in a basement
A high-ranking police officer with dark secrets
A town full of suspects
And Jack Lisbon, a detective who stops at nothing to uncover the truth.
When a prominent pool hall owner is found brutally slain in his own home, Yorkville's Criminal Investigation Branch swoops into action.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police is piling the pressure on Detective Lisbon and his team. With suspicions the crime has links to terrorism and a meeting of world leaders about to kick off, solving the case is now an urgent priority.
But is the killer really linked to a terrorist organization? Or does the homicide have nothing to do with national security at all?
With the line of suspects stretching out the door, Jack and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor must pull out all stops to unravel this baffling crime.
Can Jack Lisbon solve the case in time to avert a disaster? Or will the Trick Shot mystery snooker him completely?
A high-ranking police officer with dark secrets
A town full of suspects
And Jack Lisbon, a detective who stops at nothing to uncover the truth.
When a prominent pool hall owner is found brutally slain in his own home, Yorkville's Criminal Investigation Branch swoops into action.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police is piling the pressure on Detective Lisbon and his team. With suspicions the crime has links to terrorism and a meeting of world leaders about to kick off, solving the case is now an urgent priority.
But is the killer really linked to a terrorist organization? Or does the homicide have nothing to do with national security at all?
With the line of suspects stretching out the door, Jack and his partner Detective Claudia Taylor must pull out all stops to unravel this baffling crime.
Can Jack Lisbon solve the case in time to avert a disaster? Or will the Trick Shot mystery snooker him completely?
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2021
376 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Blair Denholm
23 books225 followersBlair Denholm is a freelance writer and translator who has lived in Moscow, New York, Munich, Abu Dhabi and Australia. He has written content for commercial websites and done corporate voice-over work in English and Russian.
His first novel in the Gary Braswell series, SOLD, was released by Clan Destine Press in November 2017 and is getting rave reviews. He is also working on a murder mystery based on a real event that occurred in Moscow in the late 1980s.
Blair interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow, translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics and voted in a foreign election despite having no eligibility to do so. He was also almost lost at sea on a dilapidated Russian fishing boat sailing from Hobart to New Zealand. He currently resides in the beautiful Southern Downs district in Queensland with his partner Sandra and two crazy canines.
His first novel in the Gary Braswell series, SOLD, was released by Clan Destine Press in November 2017 and is getting rave reviews. He is also working on a murder mystery based on a real event that occurred in Moscow in the late 1980s.
Blair interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow, translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics and voted in a foreign election despite having no eligibility to do so. He was also almost lost at sea on a dilapidated Russian fishing boat sailing from Hobart to New Zealand. He currently resides in the beautiful Southern Downs district in Queensland with his partner Sandra and two crazy canines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 14, 2021
Rounded up from around 3.5 stars ⭐️ I love reading the Jack Lisbon series and was so excited to read this installment, it did not disappoint.
Trick Shot follows detectives Jack and Claudia as they attempt to find out who murdered a local businessman. With pressure from the public, press and higher ups in the police force, the detectives must work fast to solve the crime.
I always love finding out what sport the series has focused on next. Pool has a particular place in my heart and I was so excited that it was featured in this book. Although the sport focus wasn’t as prominent in this novel, I liked that (as I am not a particularly sporty person).
Unfortunately, there were some parts of the book that seemed to contain inaccuracies involving a rare genetic illness that is close to my heart. This did diminish my enjoyment of the book somewhat. That being said, I love the character of Jack. He’s not the shiny, perfect protagonist in many books. He’s a wonderful mix of good and bad. The ending was really moving for me. At this point in the series, Jack seems like a close friend/family member who I just want to be happy.
I would recommend this book and series to anyone who loves sports and a police procedural novel. I want to thank the author for allowing me to read this and give my personal thoughts.
Trick Shot follows detectives Jack and Claudia as they attempt to find out who murdered a local businessman. With pressure from the public, press and higher ups in the police force, the detectives must work fast to solve the crime.
I always love finding out what sport the series has focused on next. Pool has a particular place in my heart and I was so excited that it was featured in this book. Although the sport focus wasn’t as prominent in this novel, I liked that (as I am not a particularly sporty person).
Unfortunately, there were some parts of the book that seemed to contain inaccuracies involving a rare genetic illness that is close to my heart. This did diminish my enjoyment of the book somewhat. That being said, I love the character of Jack. He’s not the shiny, perfect protagonist in many books. He’s a wonderful mix of good and bad. The ending was really moving for me. At this point in the series, Jack seems like a close friend/family member who I just want to be happy.
I would recommend this book and series to anyone who loves sports and a police procedural novel. I want to thank the author for allowing me to read this and give my personal thoughts.
April 13, 2022
As I delve deeper into Blair Denholm’s DS Jack Lisbon series, I am more impressed with what I have read. Denholm spins another masterful tale, where DS Jack Lisbon and his team must crack open a case, using few leads. When a man is discovered next to a pool table, murdered and gripping a locket with his ex-wife’s photo, Lisbon and the Cairns CID try to piece things together. It would seem many have a motive to see the victim dead, though this does not make the investigation any easier for Lisbon, who must chase things down before making a final arrest. Denholm adds more depth to the stories and offers up some personal development for his protagonist, long overdue.
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has waited long enough to see his daughter, Skye. It’s been four years since he left the UK for his new post in Australia. He’s got a ticket and is ready to fly, when the head of the Cairns Police calls him in on a personal favour. While Lisbon tries to weasel out of it, he is persuaded to stay a while longer and help with a pressing murder investigation.
Cameron Snyder was found murdered next to a pool table, clutching a locket with his ex-wife’s photo. He’s quite important and his murder cannot go unsolved for too long, especially with a Commonwealth meeting set to open in Cairns soon. DS Lisbon and his team are called in to help before things get out of hand and the press gets wind of the situation.
While DS Lisbon is keenly aware of the pressure that awaits him, leads are not forthcoming. He’s on a deadline, having changed his schedule by a few days, which pushes him to be as diligent as possible. It would seem that Snyder may have been popular in some circles, but also garnered many enemies. This leaves a long list of suspects and little time to cull them down to something that can be synthesized.
Working around the clock to solve the case, DS LIsbon and the Cairns CID follow a few key leads and determine a potential suspect, but nothing is quite as it seems. With Lisbon running out of time and patience, he’s determined to be seated on a flight to London by the end of the weekend, no excuses. Denholm does a wonderful job keeping series fans on the edge of their seats with this instalment, leaving readers hungering for more.
Blair Denholm has surely made a mark on my reading experience to date. After hearing much about him, I was pleased to be given the opportunity to read this series, which speeds along ad the reader becomes ensconced in everything that’s going on. Having not read any of his other series (though I have a standalone on my radar), I plunged in, not sure what to expect. Three novels and two novellas in has left me highly impressed and wanting more. The next is the ARC I was provided, which will bring this series full circle. I cannot wait to see what’s to come.
DS Jack Lisbon is back for another wonderful adventure, finally given more than a passing chance to develop his personal development. As a father who was forced to leave his young daughter behind in the UK, Lisbon finally has a plan to see her, though it is stymied by his superiors who value his detecting abilities. Character development is somewhat minimal, but the chance to see Skye has surely made a dent in trying to drum up some added opportunity to see more than the rough facade that Lisbon offers when working a case.
Blair Denholm has made the most of his writing opportunity, showing readers that he is the real deal. This story provides a narrative that is as fast-paced as the others and provides the reader with a strong foundation for the rest of the piece. Short chapters keep the reader forging on and makes ‘just another few pages’ turn into an hour-long binge read. Denholm again develops memorable characters, complementing the protagonist while linking the story’s numerous twists. A straightforward plot keeps things from getting too confusing, though there is a lot going on from one chapter to the next. I am ready for the ARC, feeling well-versed on all things DS Jack Lisbon. Someone said these could be standalone novels, though I dismiss this, as a series is meant to be enjoyed as a while, permitting the reader to feel the growth and development of everything as the books pile up.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for another winner. Do keep writing and impressing readers worth your ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon has waited long enough to see his daughter, Skye. It’s been four years since he left the UK for his new post in Australia. He’s got a ticket and is ready to fly, when the head of the Cairns Police calls him in on a personal favour. While Lisbon tries to weasel out of it, he is persuaded to stay a while longer and help with a pressing murder investigation.
Cameron Snyder was found murdered next to a pool table, clutching a locket with his ex-wife’s photo. He’s quite important and his murder cannot go unsolved for too long, especially with a Commonwealth meeting set to open in Cairns soon. DS Lisbon and his team are called in to help before things get out of hand and the press gets wind of the situation.
While DS Lisbon is keenly aware of the pressure that awaits him, leads are not forthcoming. He’s on a deadline, having changed his schedule by a few days, which pushes him to be as diligent as possible. It would seem that Snyder may have been popular in some circles, but also garnered many enemies. This leaves a long list of suspects and little time to cull them down to something that can be synthesized.
Working around the clock to solve the case, DS LIsbon and the Cairns CID follow a few key leads and determine a potential suspect, but nothing is quite as it seems. With Lisbon running out of time and patience, he’s determined to be seated on a flight to London by the end of the weekend, no excuses. Denholm does a wonderful job keeping series fans on the edge of their seats with this instalment, leaving readers hungering for more.
Blair Denholm has surely made a mark on my reading experience to date. After hearing much about him, I was pleased to be given the opportunity to read this series, which speeds along ad the reader becomes ensconced in everything that’s going on. Having not read any of his other series (though I have a standalone on my radar), I plunged in, not sure what to expect. Three novels and two novellas in has left me highly impressed and wanting more. The next is the ARC I was provided, which will bring this series full circle. I cannot wait to see what’s to come.
DS Jack Lisbon is back for another wonderful adventure, finally given more than a passing chance to develop his personal development. As a father who was forced to leave his young daughter behind in the UK, Lisbon finally has a plan to see her, though it is stymied by his superiors who value his detecting abilities. Character development is somewhat minimal, but the chance to see Skye has surely made a dent in trying to drum up some added opportunity to see more than the rough facade that Lisbon offers when working a case.
Blair Denholm has made the most of his writing opportunity, showing readers that he is the real deal. This story provides a narrative that is as fast-paced as the others and provides the reader with a strong foundation for the rest of the piece. Short chapters keep the reader forging on and makes ‘just another few pages’ turn into an hour-long binge read. Denholm again develops memorable characters, complementing the protagonist while linking the story’s numerous twists. A straightforward plot keeps things from getting too confusing, though there is a lot going on from one chapter to the next. I am ready for the ARC, feeling well-versed on all things DS Jack Lisbon. Someone said these could be standalone novels, though I dismiss this, as a series is meant to be enjoyed as a while, permitting the reader to feel the growth and development of everything as the books pile up.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for another winner. Do keep writing and impressing readers worth your ideas.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
November 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s
I’m obsessed with this series. It’s brilliant.
It really hit the mark.
It’s a thrilling ride full of twists and turns, making for a truly engaging read.
Love, love Jack and Claudia. They are compelling characters that have me hooked, they’re very real and relatable. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens between them.
I'm always curious to see which sports will be featured in the author's next work. My husband’s friend comes over to play pool a couple of times a week, so it was thrilling to see it featured here even though it wasn’t a major focus.
A suspenseful page-turner
I’m obsessed with this series. It’s brilliant.
It really hit the mark.
It’s a thrilling ride full of twists and turns, making for a truly engaging read.
Love, love Jack and Claudia. They are compelling characters that have me hooked, they’re very real and relatable. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens between them.
I'm always curious to see which sports will be featured in the author's next work. My husband’s friend comes over to play pool a couple of times a week, so it was thrilling to see it featured here even though it wasn’t a major focus.
A suspenseful page-turner
July 18, 2021
I loved this story. When I first met Jack Lisbon, there wasn't much to like but I have enjoyed watching him crawl out of that deep dark hole. He has settled into some real police work. Maybe it's that dark past, but the man knows his criminals and he generally gets them. Interesting relationship starting up with Claudia too. The ending is the best. Just the right amount of tension to foreshadow the next book and keep you hooked. Looking forward to getting to know Skye.
I received a free advanced review copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a free advanced review copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2021
EBook Review: TRICK SHOT by Blair Denholm
(T) rust
(R) eaction
( l ) nstict
(C) arries
(K) ick
(S) hadows
(H) inder
(O) utlook
(T) rust
TRICK SHOT,
keeps one guessing.
Must look,
behind the scene.
Bringing up,
lots of possibilities.
Solve quickly,
put on spot.
Lots of,
secrets out there.
Must find,
who did it.
If not,
miss seeing daughter.
Author has,
way with words.
Keeps us,
on our toes.
In end,
becomes quite clear
***************************
I received this book free,
and I am leaving this
review voluntarily.
***************************
(T) rust
(R) eaction
( l ) nstict
(C) arries
(K) ick
(S) hadows
(H) inder
(O) utlook
(T) rust
TRICK SHOT,
keeps one guessing.
Must look,
behind the scene.
Bringing up,
lots of possibilities.
Solve quickly,
put on spot.
Lots of,
secrets out there.
Must find,
who did it.
If not,
miss seeing daughter.
Author has,
way with words.
Keeps us,
on our toes.
In end,
becomes quite clear
***************************
I received this book free,
and I am leaving this
review voluntarily.
***************************
August 2, 2021
I was given an ARC by the author. I loved this series with the first book. Now with the third book, I love it even more. The first chapter had my heart racing, needing to read more of the story. This author writes such an amazing story that I was drawn in immediately and I could not put the book down. Jack is a great character and DC Taylor is a great female character who stands up for herself. I love his connection to Claudia Taylor and how they work together try to solve the case. The book kept me wondering what was going to happen next. I can't wait for the next book.
August 11, 2021
Trick Shot (The Fighting Detective, #3), my second read from author Blair Denholm, an author I'd wanted to read since acquiring Kill Shot: an absolutely gripping mystery and suspense thriller (The Fighting Detective Book 1), back in January yet never getting around to it until now. Longer at 22 pages than the 55 page Fighting Dirty: A Jack Lisbon Crime Thriller, my first read from author Blair Denholm. Outstanding police/detective fiction set in Australia, well-written with characters & a plot you can buy into with unexpected twists & turns. I look forward to reading Kill Shot: an absolutely gripping mystery and suspense thriller (The Fighting Detective Book 1). “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." So good I went out & purchased a copy. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
July 22, 2021
Jack Lisbon and Claudia Taylor are both characters that I have gotten to really want to know better. Trick Shot has the usual twists and turns of all good mysteries. One of the things I like is that no one is portrayed as all good or all bad. I like the variety of characters in the story.
I received a review advance copy of this book for an honest review.
I received a review advance copy of this book for an honest review.
July 19, 2021
Another amazing book by Blair Denholm. I’ve become a big fan of Jack Lisbon, he’s a tough cop that doesn’t let anyone push him around. The two books before this one in the series, ‘Kill Shot’ and ‘Shot Clock’ have all been brilliant. It was so easy to get lost between the pages for many enjoyable hours. Loved it!!
Initially Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon had no intention of helping Ray Hook, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, as far as Jack was concerned nothing was going to stop him boarding the plane to go and see his daughter. However, Hook threw in a few sweeteners for Jack, and the case did sound kind of urgent. Especially since it could have national security implications. Not that Jack could see how a pool hall owner would have any influence when it came to the security of Australia. The sooner he could solve the case the sooner Jack could take his holidays.
This is a thoroughly entertaining novel, and well worth a read. 5/5 Star Rating.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
Initially Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon had no intention of helping Ray Hook, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, as far as Jack was concerned nothing was going to stop him boarding the plane to go and see his daughter. However, Hook threw in a few sweeteners for Jack, and the case did sound kind of urgent. Especially since it could have national security implications. Not that Jack could see how a pool hall owner would have any influence when it came to the security of Australia. The sooner he could solve the case the sooner Jack could take his holidays.
This is a thoroughly entertaining novel, and well worth a read. 5/5 Star Rating.
I was provided with an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
September 18, 2022
An eventful story with Jack and Claudia trying to sort through the list of suspects with a deadline for the weekend when Jack is due to fly back to Blighty to see his ex and his daughter. The suspects keep popping up and getting eliminated till the results of a DNA test lead him to an unexpected encounter with Misty aka Michelle Roach, an indigenous hooker who saw the killer as she was leaving giving Jack the lead he needed to take him in although finding out his motive makes it a reluctant collar. The Assistant District Commissioner also escapes justice by dying so Jack's plan to expose his crooked dealings is thwarted but it's a good result all round. Nice ending to a quite well rounded story.
December 15, 2021
Trick Shot is the third book of The Fighting Detective Book series, and I must admit that this series is growing on me. Blair Denholm has done it once again! The third book is undoubtedly a gripping mystery infused with suspense, banter and unusual twists and turns. Blair has done an excellent job of portraying multicultural Australia (though at times, the whiff of stereotypes was a little too strong and extended to staffies too). I loved the mix of having supporting characters such as Constable Wilson and Constables Trevarthen and Semmens lead the chapters and now, speaking of the protagonist, Jack Lisbon, perfectly imperfect, complex character. His thoughts as a Detective Sargent, father and human being are spread well throughout the book. I can't wait to dig into the next book and remain optimistic about how things will progress with his co-worker DS Claudia Taylor, one of my favourite characters. A 4 star read! I received an ARC from the author, and this honest review is left voluntarily.
July 24, 2021
Another fantastic addition to the Jack Lisbon series.
I think Jack might be starting to soften slightly, particularly where his fellow officer is concerned....maybe a touch of romance to come in future books?
The plots always move at a good pace in these books, but this one was particularly good as it was set against the backdrop of Jack trying to solve the case before his rescheduled flight back to the UK to meet his daughter.
I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to the next one.
I think Jack might be starting to soften slightly, particularly where his fellow officer is concerned....maybe a touch of romance to come in future books?
The plots always move at a good pace in these books, but this one was particularly good as it was set against the backdrop of Jack trying to solve the case before his rescheduled flight back to the UK to meet his daughter.
I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to the next one.
August 25, 2021
Brilliant!
I love Jack Lisbon!
Someone with a connection to Hook, is killed and Jack must find out who did it, before he can go on his long awaited, trip home to Blighty.
Snyder is, by all accounts, scum and not a great loss to society but did he deserve to die - debatable...
Great police work and deductive skills, has Jack chasing down all leads
This series is a must read!
I love Jack Lisbon!
Someone with a connection to Hook, is killed and Jack must find out who did it, before he can go on his long awaited, trip home to Blighty.
Snyder is, by all accounts, scum and not a great loss to society but did he deserve to die - debatable...
Great police work and deductive skills, has Jack chasing down all leads
This series is a must read!
September 11, 2022
great read
August 1, 2021
A thrilling story of murder and mystery. Action from start to finish with a mixed cast of characters. Looking forward to Blair Denholm's next book.
August 28, 2023
Another good story by Blair Denholm. Jack Lisbon really grows on you.
August 7, 2021
This book was provided to me by the author and the fine folks at storyoriginapp.com in return for an honest review.
This book follows the procedural adventure of DS Lisbon as he makes his way following the successful conclusion of his adventures (illustrated previously in Fighting Dirty) , which include a long awaited trip back to England to see his estranged daughter. All to be suddenly interrupted by a request from a superior in the Queensland police department to follow up an issue involving an individual of some disrepute and notoriety, which Lisbon turns to his advantage with some of his asks.
After making his trip, accompanied by two colleagues, Lisbon and his colleagues are thrust into a murder investigation when the individual previously referenced is found in his basement, surrounded by blood, deceased and very badly beaten.
This novel is bound to be a strong hit with fans of police procedurals and those who enjoy vivid storytelling (Denholm's ability to paint a mental picture is unsurpassed). The only issue that I had was some of the Australian vernacular and slang (which should not be surprising as I live in North America...lol) but as the book goes along, is something easily able to get used to.
As far as reviews go, this book is worthy of a solid four stars out of five and is a great binge read.
As with all reviews, this is merely my five cents worth.
This book follows the procedural adventure of DS Lisbon as he makes his way following the successful conclusion of his adventures (illustrated previously in Fighting Dirty) , which include a long awaited trip back to England to see his estranged daughter. All to be suddenly interrupted by a request from a superior in the Queensland police department to follow up an issue involving an individual of some disrepute and notoriety, which Lisbon turns to his advantage with some of his asks.
After making his trip, accompanied by two colleagues, Lisbon and his colleagues are thrust into a murder investigation when the individual previously referenced is found in his basement, surrounded by blood, deceased and very badly beaten.
This novel is bound to be a strong hit with fans of police procedurals and those who enjoy vivid storytelling (Denholm's ability to paint a mental picture is unsurpassed). The only issue that I had was some of the Australian vernacular and slang (which should not be surprising as I live in North America...lol) but as the book goes along, is something easily able to get used to.
As far as reviews go, this book is worthy of a solid four stars out of five and is a great binge read.
As with all reviews, this is merely my five cents worth.
August 7, 2021
The author Blair Denholm come from a land I adore - Tasmania. He writes with the style of his homeland - lots of "vim and vinegar"! Be prepared from the first page to be hooked. This is clearly a page turner! This is Book 3 in his series The Fighting Detective". A solid storyline with characters well fleshed out. As with every poor detective they always seem to be headed out the door on a well deserved vacation, when the Chief corners them into taking this case - Here Jack is hopping on the plane for a long overdue visit with his daughter, when the Chief says this could involve terrorism and the safety of his country. All this said and done this is a great read, one you will not want to miss! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 26, 2021
When a prominent pool hall owner is found brutally slain in his own home, Lisbon and Taylor team up for another homicide investigation. The Assistant Commissioner of Police seems to have a special interest in the case, and claims the crime has links to terrorism and an upcoming meeting of world leaders. It’s all hands on deck, in a town full of suspects. Lisbon is determined to catch his flight to London to see his daughter, so he wants to wrap it up fast. But nothing goes as planned and tensions are running high.
Trick Shot is the third book in The Fighting Detective series. It has great characters, lots of action, and a subtle hint of growing romantic interests. To be continued !
I received a preview copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing.
Trick Shot is the third book in The Fighting Detective series. It has great characters, lots of action, and a subtle hint of growing romantic interests. To be continued !
I received a preview copy of this book which I am voluntarily reviewing.
January 8, 2022
Okay, so what can I say about this series other than I love it? Crime thrillers have always been a bit hit and miss for me, but Jack Lisbon is definitely a hit! Denholm does a great job blending police procedural with an engaging and well-planned plot. I love the camaraderie between Jack, Claudia and Ben – the three of them clearly respect one another despite the ribbing and teasing, and I’m definitely interested in the possible budding relationship of the former two.
Like the first two books of this series, I was completely invested within the first page and it was difficult to put down once I started. Full of action and moving at a great pace, Trick Shot was an awesome read! Thank you Blair Denholm for my ARC copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Like the first two books of this series, I was completely invested within the first page and it was difficult to put down once I started. Full of action and moving at a great pace, Trick Shot was an awesome read! Thank you Blair Denholm for my ARC copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 11, 2021
Jack Lisbon is at it again. He's in Australia and all he can think about is going to see his daughter for 3 wonderful weeks. What could go wrong? Oh just a murder that he HAS to solve or he won't be able to leave.
I enjoy Blair's Jack stories a lot. The humor, the get it done attitude, sometimes meaning that he might have to do the not so legal thing.
The ending was not predictable as many are. That feeling you know who did it 100 pages before the end, just to find out you were right. I didn't have this here, honestly I had no idea how it was going to end, and that's one thing I really enjoy in my books. I WANT to be surprised, thrown off guard, saying 'oh woah' when the 'answer' is revealed.
So get reading, guy/girl, younger/old... I think you'll enjoy it too!
I enjoy Blair's Jack stories a lot. The humor, the get it done attitude, sometimes meaning that he might have to do the not so legal thing.
The ending was not predictable as many are. That feeling you know who did it 100 pages before the end, just to find out you were right. I didn't have this here, honestly I had no idea how it was going to end, and that's one thing I really enjoy in my books. I WANT to be surprised, thrown off guard, saying 'oh woah' when the 'answer' is revealed.
So get reading, guy/girl, younger/old... I think you'll enjoy it too!
July 31, 2021
This is a very good detective mystery. The word usage is very good as is the writing of the entire book. Blair uses a good plot and keeps it straight through the book. There are not a lot of characters but the ones he uses most get the best fleshing out. There is a bit of background on all the characters which helps the plot. This book is easy to read and put down for the night and then pick it back up the next night without forgetting what has been happening. A good solid read and I did enjoy reading it.
May 18, 2023
Mostly I read British novels and hadn't twigged that this is an Australian book. After making a mental switch, the narrative made more sense to me and kept me engaged.
Small downside - the big villain didn't really seem credible. How was he able to wield the power he apparently did? (And I hope that won't be a spoiler for anyone going to read the book)
There was plenty of fast action, good engagement between the characters, and a tantalising glimpse of a future development.
I think I'll be pleased to read any more of this author's books that come my way!
Small downside - the big villain didn't really seem credible. How was he able to wield the power he apparently did? (And I hope that won't be a spoiler for anyone going to read the book)
There was plenty of fast action, good engagement between the characters, and a tantalising glimpse of a future development.
I think I'll be pleased to read any more of this author's books that come my way!
August 16, 2024
Blair Denholm is the man when it comes to writing adrenaline fueled crime thrillers. Detective Sergent Jack Lisbon, The Fighting Detective, will go to any length to see that justice is served, even if it means bending or even breaking the law himself. Jack's willingness to go to any extreme to take down the bad guys doesn’t set well with his by the book partner, Detective Constable Claudia Taylor, but she has his back, as he has Her's. Will they become more than just partners? They seem to be headed in that direction. Only time will tell.
Every new book in this series is better than the ones preceding it, with their plots becoming more and more convoluted. Beginning with the prequel to this awesome series, Fighting Dirty, they have all been adrenaline fueled page burners that grabbed me by the throat in the first few pages and never let me go until the final climax left me saying over and over again, “Wow! I didn’t see that coming.” I really have no idea about how many more books Blair has planned for this series, I can only hope that it will be many more because I can’t get enough of Jack and Claudia.
If you are an adrenaline jockey like me and thrive on all the blood and guts, you will love this series of books. You can read them in any order and enjoy them, but to enjoy them fully, you need to read them in the order they were written, beginning with the prequel.
Every new book in this series is better than the ones preceding it, with their plots becoming more and more convoluted. Beginning with the prequel to this awesome series, Fighting Dirty, they have all been adrenaline fueled page burners that grabbed me by the throat in the first few pages and never let me go until the final climax left me saying over and over again, “Wow! I didn’t see that coming.” I really have no idea about how many more books Blair has planned for this series, I can only hope that it will be many more because I can’t get enough of Jack and Claudia.
If you are an adrenaline jockey like me and thrive on all the blood and guts, you will love this series of books. You can read them in any order and enjoy them, but to enjoy them fully, you need to read them in the order they were written, beginning with the prequel.
April 8, 2023
Trick Shot, #3 - Interesting read, although a bit wordy. Good story lines with a couple of bad characters, one of them, a top law enforcement officer. Jack is being himself, both the Limey and Aussie versions working together trying to solve the murder and get home to his daughter. Some humor here and there. 4*
Fighting Dirty - An interesting introduction to a new series describes how the life of an ex-fighter turned police detective is involuntarily uprooted from the UK to the Queensland Police Service in AU. 4*
Take Down - Takes place about six months after Fighting Dirty ends. Jack is in the wrong place at the wrong time. 4*
Kill Shot, #1 - Interesting but a bit wordy. The coppers are an interesting group of characters. Good story lines kept me immersed until the end. The story picks up four years after Take Down ends. Would highly recommend reading Fighting Dirty and Take Down first. 4*
Shot Clock, #2 - Another interesting read that picks up about a year after Fighting Dirty ends. Good blending of old and new story lines along with an interesting variety of characters made this a fast paced read. Judas betrayed Jesus, Peter denied Him, Blair. 4*
Fighting Dirty - An interesting introduction to a new series describes how the life of an ex-fighter turned police detective is involuntarily uprooted from the UK to the Queensland Police Service in AU. 4*
Take Down - Takes place about six months after Fighting Dirty ends. Jack is in the wrong place at the wrong time. 4*
Kill Shot, #1 - Interesting but a bit wordy. The coppers are an interesting group of characters. Good story lines kept me immersed until the end. The story picks up four years after Take Down ends. Would highly recommend reading Fighting Dirty and Take Down first. 4*
Shot Clock, #2 - Another interesting read that picks up about a year after Fighting Dirty ends. Good blending of old and new story lines along with an interesting variety of characters made this a fast paced read. Judas betrayed Jesus, Peter denied Him, Blair. 4*
September 21, 2021
The third of the Fighting Detective series by Blair Denham, Trick Shot sees the return of Jack Lisbon and his team. For those who have not read the earlier books, Jack is a former English policeman with history and an ex-pugilist who stops at nothing to find the truth. This time, an intended visit to the old country is delayed by the Assistant Police Commissioner insistent he take on a sensitive case. When the dead body of a dogy pool hall owner is found, can Jack solve the mystery and still make his plane? The pressure is on Jack to quickly solve the murder and the personal interest of the Assistant Police Commissioner doesn’t help. A typical Jack Lisbon saga with an obtrusive hero in an Aussie police procedural that gets a three-and-a-half-star rating. An enjoyable standalone thriller, with no previous knowledge necessary. With many thanks to Story of Origin and the author, for an uncorrected proof copy for review purposes.
September 28, 2021
This is the first DS Jack Lisbon detective novel I've read and the author has certainly painted a vivid and intriguing main character. Jack Lisbon is not your ordinary safe-as-houses cop and doesn't mind applying the law in 'creative' ways when he needs to. And he's a 'pom' (an Englishman by birth) in a distinctly Australian setting in Northern Queensland. This makes for some interesting interactions with the locals and his colleagues.
The crime story is tight, non-nonsense, mysterious to the end, and very well told. The characterisation, dialogue, settings, and atmosphere are well drawn and nicely done. There was a nice mix of police procedure too, and it was fascinating to see how the police zeroed in on the eventual guilty suspect, despite there being plenty of other suspects to work on.
A really enjoyable read, and recommended. I'll be reading more of DS Jack Lisbon.
The crime story is tight, non-nonsense, mysterious to the end, and very well told. The characterisation, dialogue, settings, and atmosphere are well drawn and nicely done. There was a nice mix of police procedure too, and it was fascinating to see how the police zeroed in on the eventual guilty suspect, despite there being plenty of other suspects to work on.
A really enjoyable read, and recommended. I'll be reading more of DS Jack Lisbon.
October 17, 2023
Jack & Taylor are still fighting crime in Yorkville & will Jack make it to the airport in time to fly to the UK to see his daughter? The setting of this novel extends to Cairns - so nice reading about places I know I can almost picture it.
I really like how this series is developing, it’s works & the story follows really well with a few twists & turns. Jack Lisbon is really growing on me & I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment. Again I was kept guessing to the end. A fantastic plot with some equally good characters. Some multicultural is also explored not to mention a dark side of the victim.
I really like how this series is developing, it’s works & the story follows really well with a few twists & turns. Jack Lisbon is really growing on me & I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment. Again I was kept guessing to the end. A fantastic plot with some equally good characters. Some multicultural is also explored not to mention a dark side of the victim.
September 16, 2021
Trick Shot is the third in a series about Jack Lisbon, an Australian detective. It is believeable, very straightforward, with well-drawn characters. I do not believe in reiterating a storyline as I fell it takes away from a reader's enjoyment. The book is a who-done-it with a plot containing surprises as it develops. I recommend this book for mystery buffs as well as those who enjoy the old fashioned hard boiled detective genre. I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion of this novel.
September 19, 2024
glad I kept reading
So I was skeptical about the first book but something intrigued me to read the next book, so I did. Now after finishing the 3rd book I will say I’m glad I kept going. IMO this book is the best one so far.
In this book you can look forward to more of Wilson getting action in the field, Jack and Claudia realizing they may or may not have feelings for each other, and realizing we definitely hate Holly Maguire; iykyk.
So I was skeptical about the first book but something intrigued me to read the next book, so I did. Now after finishing the 3rd book I will say I’m glad I kept going. IMO this book is the best one so far.
In this book you can look forward to more of Wilson getting action in the field, Jack and Claudia realizing they may or may not have feelings for each other, and realizing we definitely hate Holly Maguire; iykyk.
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