What do you think?
Rate this book
DCI Sean Bracken #4
Life Extinct
Doctor Angela Monroe is found dead at the foot of Salisbury Crags on Arthur's Seat. An avid runner, it first appears that she fell to her death.Until the pathologist deems it murder.It's the night of the summer solstice and people have been celebrating on the famous dormant volcano.DCI Sean Bracken and his team are called in to lead the investigation.Monroe was a well-respected professor, lecturing at a local university, who had no known enemies and was a private person who kept to herself.Was this a random attack? As they dig deeper into her background, nothing makes sense. But somebody wanted her dead, and when the killer strikes again, it takes the team into a whole new direction.Meantime, Bracken's girlfriend is being stalked...by a dead man. Logic says it can't be him, but who would want to harm her? She enlists the help of Bracken, who knows all too well that dead men don't stalk...
- GenresMystery
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 31, 2021
216 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
John Carson
99 books165 followersJohn Carson is the author of the DI Frank Miller detective series. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland and lived there most of his life. In 2006, he emigrated to New York State with his American wife and two daughters. They now live in a small town in the Hudson Valley where his wife was brought up, with a German Shepherd, a Beagle mix and four cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 24, 2022
A good read
I do enjoy the fast pace of this series.
The story lines are good but sometimes there is just a little too much banter and ‘twaffle’ between the older two characters.
It’s good humoured but sometimes the extra rambling just goes on a bit too much and can get a bit irritating.
I do enjoy the fast pace of this series.
The story lines are good but sometimes there is just a little too much banter and ‘twaffle’ between the older two characters.
It’s good humoured but sometimes the extra rambling just goes on a bit too much and can get a bit irritating.
September 3, 2021
A Comfy Read
Reading Mr Carson's stories is a nice way to spend an afternoon. I'm not a particular fan of bickering, even if it's done with a dose of affection. That said, I do like the Sean Bracken series. It seems that DCI Bracken doesn't get into the grittier types of crimes found in darker stories, but the "parlour mystery" is enjoyable with it's sometimes daffy central cast of characters. Even Max the German shepherd gets "on stage" time.
Only four stars because the very attributes that make these stories fun reads are what keeps them from being "thrilling". In this story, the antagonists are making and plan to distribute pills that are much like amphetamines, but the pills (the formula stolen from trial runs of drugs being made for the U.S. Air Force) create murderous aggression. It is a complex plot that is oversimplified with the mastermind, only mentioned earlier, showing up in almost the last act as a melodramatic Simon LaGree character.
Still, it's a good read that is suitable for whiling away a pleasant afternoon.
Reading Mr Carson's stories is a nice way to spend an afternoon. I'm not a particular fan of bickering, even if it's done with a dose of affection. That said, I do like the Sean Bracken series. It seems that DCI Bracken doesn't get into the grittier types of crimes found in darker stories, but the "parlour mystery" is enjoyable with it's sometimes daffy central cast of characters. Even Max the German shepherd gets "on stage" time.
Only four stars because the very attributes that make these stories fun reads are what keeps them from being "thrilling". In this story, the antagonists are making and plan to distribute pills that are much like amphetamines, but the pills (the formula stolen from trial runs of drugs being made for the U.S. Air Force) create murderous aggression. It is a complex plot that is oversimplified with the mastermind, only mentioned earlier, showing up in almost the last act as a melodramatic Simon LaGree character.
Still, it's a good read that is suitable for whiling away a pleasant afternoon.
October 11, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest instalment in the life of Sean Bracken.
An exciting storyline and lots of twists supported by great banter from the wonderful characters in his life.
The book held my attention from start to finish and had me laughing at the antics throughout.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes the mix of well written serious crime and comedy back-up.
I have added DCI Bracken to my must read list and look forward to the next episode.
An exciting storyline and lots of twists supported by great banter from the wonderful characters in his life.
The book held my attention from start to finish and had me laughing at the antics throughout.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes the mix of well written serious crime and comedy back-up.
I have added DCI Bracken to my must read list and look forward to the next episode.
October 13, 2021
Enjoyable but not his best
I always normally date this Author 5* but I just felt this book lacking. I absolutely love the characters but the story for me was not the best, too many things mentioned then nothing else , like when a man goes up in the lift with Myra and enters her friends apartment and came back out with a rucksack, this wasn't ever mentioned again not even to the police. The bit about Kara and her neighbour never went anywhere and as if he would threaten the police! Also Chas and the notes, all very weak. Sorry but disappointing and if I didn't love the character's so much it would have got rated less. Hopefully the next one improves as I was so enjoying till now.
I always normally date this Author 5* but I just felt this book lacking. I absolutely love the characters but the story for me was not the best, too many things mentioned then nothing else , like when a man goes up in the lift with Myra and enters her friends apartment and came back out with a rucksack, this wasn't ever mentioned again not even to the police. The bit about Kara and her neighbour never went anywhere and as if he would threaten the police! Also Chas and the notes, all very weak. Sorry but disappointing and if I didn't love the character's so much it would have got rated less. Hopefully the next one improves as I was so enjoying till now.
September 11, 2022
DCI Sean Bracken is enjoying where he’s at with his life. His work and family relationships are all fairly stable and happy, his growing relationship with his girlfriend Chaz is moving steadily but well and he’s even comfortable still staying in the guest house with a retired detective as his landlord. Only an odd death draws Sean’s idyllic summer to a close on the solstice and Chaz appears to have a stalker – a man who she met a number of years ago through her work in the mortuary – a man who is very dead.
I’ve read a number of John Carson’s books and enjoy both his DCI Harry McNeil series as well as his DCI Sean Bracken series. While I have frequently found the Bracken series to be a bit grittier and harder than the McNeil series, I still thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was very pleased that Bracken’s romantic relationship with Chaz is slowly gaining momentum and they each seem to be steadily getting more series about each other. I also enjoyed how the author spent a little more time showing us the reader more of Sean and Chaz together in their personal time and not glossing over the somewhat new relationship. This helped me see them both and understand that this isn’t some quick fling but has the potential to be long term and serious between them.
I was pleased with the balance between Sean’s work as a homicide detective and his looking into the more personal investigation of who was stalking Chaz. I enjoyed this extra layer into their private life and seeing them work together outside their professional career and I enjoyed this. I definitely feel that while readers who have been following along with this series will find a lot of satisfaction in seeing this extra layer to the characters we’ve read about for a while – this book can easily be picked up by itself and readers can thoroughly enjoy this story even if they haven’t read anything previously in this series.
A strong Scottish police procedural style of novel, this is a strong read and one I enjoyed. I thought there is a good amount of character growth and an easy and steady interaction between the main characters, but it’s also a very strong police investigation-based mystery and I feel this should appeal to a wide range of readers.
I’ve read a number of John Carson’s books and enjoy both his DCI Harry McNeil series as well as his DCI Sean Bracken series. While I have frequently found the Bracken series to be a bit grittier and harder than the McNeil series, I still thoroughly enjoyed this story. I was very pleased that Bracken’s romantic relationship with Chaz is slowly gaining momentum and they each seem to be steadily getting more series about each other. I also enjoyed how the author spent a little more time showing us the reader more of Sean and Chaz together in their personal time and not glossing over the somewhat new relationship. This helped me see them both and understand that this isn’t some quick fling but has the potential to be long term and serious between them.
I was pleased with the balance between Sean’s work as a homicide detective and his looking into the more personal investigation of who was stalking Chaz. I enjoyed this extra layer into their private life and seeing them work together outside their professional career and I enjoyed this. I definitely feel that while readers who have been following along with this series will find a lot of satisfaction in seeing this extra layer to the characters we’ve read about for a while – this book can easily be picked up by itself and readers can thoroughly enjoy this story even if they haven’t read anything previously in this series.
A strong Scottish police procedural style of novel, this is a strong read and one I enjoyed. I thought there is a good amount of character growth and an easy and steady interaction between the main characters, but it’s also a very strong police investigation-based mystery and I feel this should appeal to a wide range of readers.
May 8, 2022
I love the characters in this series and just because I'm only giving this particular book 3 stars doesn't mean I won't continue reading them.
I have a problem when I don't believe what's happening - when the motivation is off. At one point, a character behaved so absolutely out of character for someone who has not only had a really rough time of it and who should have known better, that I started doing that old head shake and tut-tutting. I did not believe it. The character was not naïve and she was not stupid, and yet there she was - behaving exactly so. For example, if I take the garbage out and return to find the lights in my apartment are out and there is a crash in the kitchen, I do not open the door and walk in in a way that would let whoever is in there know for sure I am there and exactly where I am. Especially if I was a victim to an attack and threatened by someone else just a few days previously. I would not try to convince myself that "it was probably nothing". Really? No matter how much her reaction was explained, it didn't make sense. This is when you lose me, and as it tickled at the back of my brain throughout the rest of the book, it was sadly pretty much a done deal. A book, like an actor, must consistently "suspend disbelief".
It felt like this book was written quickly, although the banter between the characters remained as well done as in the previous books. The wrap-up was disappointing and quickly explained in a few paragraphs at the end. Not my favorite way to wrap up a thriller.
I have a problem when I don't believe what's happening - when the motivation is off. At one point, a character behaved so absolutely out of character for someone who has not only had a really rough time of it and who should have known better, that I started doing that old head shake and tut-tutting. I did not believe it. The character was not naïve and she was not stupid, and yet there she was - behaving exactly so. For example, if I take the garbage out and return to find the lights in my apartment are out and there is a crash in the kitchen, I do not open the door and walk in in a way that would let whoever is in there know for sure I am there and exactly where I am. Especially if I was a victim to an attack and threatened by someone else just a few days previously. I would not try to convince myself that "it was probably nothing". Really? No matter how much her reaction was explained, it didn't make sense. This is when you lose me, and as it tickled at the back of my brain throughout the rest of the book, it was sadly pretty much a done deal. A book, like an actor, must consistently "suspend disbelief".
It felt like this book was written quickly, although the banter between the characters remained as well done as in the previous books. The wrap-up was disappointing and quickly explained in a few paragraphs at the end. Not my favorite way to wrap up a thriller.
September 1, 2021
Excellent!
Very fast moving mystery with an intricate plot! This mystery is off the books investigation as Chaz, working as a mortuary attendant on night duty alone, is drugged! Bracken, his father and dog, and landlord, retired DI for police, help in the investigation. Very exciting, unusual plot is enjoyable and not fully revealed til the end. It is amazing how people are drawn into drug trafficking schemes with the lure of easy money, regardless of the people damaged by it!
Very fast moving mystery with an intricate plot! This mystery is off the books investigation as Chaz, working as a mortuary attendant on night duty alone, is drugged! Bracken, his father and dog, and landlord, retired DI for police, help in the investigation. Very exciting, unusual plot is enjoyable and not fully revealed til the end. It is amazing how people are drawn into drug trafficking schemes with the lure of easy money, regardless of the people damaged by it!
July 12, 2023
Enjoyable mystery
This is my first John Carson novel. The plot was interesting and moved quickly. It’s a relatively short read that doesn’t go into too much depth with the investigation. I enjoyed the dry wit of Sean Bracken and found the banter with his father and friends at times laugh out loud funny. I was reading in bed and woke my husband up with my outburst. It was a fun read with quirky characters. I plan to check out more of Mr. Carson. His style is unique.
This is my first John Carson novel. The plot was interesting and moved quickly. It’s a relatively short read that doesn’t go into too much depth with the investigation. I enjoyed the dry wit of Sean Bracken and found the banter with his father and friends at times laugh out loud funny. I was reading in bed and woke my husband up with my outburst. It was a fun read with quirky characters. I plan to check out more of Mr. Carson. His style is unique.
November 22, 2023
As with the previous book in the series, the synopsis of this book given on this site bears only a passing resemblance to the actual story. Yes Angela Monroe is dead but not at the foot of Salisbury Crags and not on a run. It has more to do with a girls’ night out and a park. The stalking of Chaz Cullen is true and events spiral into a frightening ordeal for her but Chaz isn’t one for stupidity - unlike some of the other characters
August 31, 2021
LOVE THE BANTER!
I love the banter between the regular characters and can’t wait to see what the new guy gets up to in future books. Another great read that I read almost in one sitting.
I love the banter between the regular characters and can’t wait to see what the new guy gets up to in future books. Another great read that I read almost in one sitting.
September 2, 2021
a good read
Good game plot. Not sure I like the dynamics between Bracken and Chaz. Much prefer the B&B set up. Ending was a little rushed. The build up was about the right gut pace but suddenly rushed to the end
Good game plot. Not sure I like the dynamics between Bracken and Chaz. Much prefer the B&B set up. Ending was a little rushed. The build up was about the right gut pace but suddenly rushed to the end
September 6, 2021
You will never guess the ending.
Carson continues to get the reader involved in his stories right from the start. I love the character development and interaction as they investigate unique stories of crime.
Carson continues to get the reader involved in his stories right from the start. I love the character development and interaction as they investigate unique stories of crime.
September 15, 2021
Great!
John Carson never disappoints! Every series is good. The Sean Bracken series is everything you expect from a great mystery. It has a team that works well together. Bracken is good at his job and has a brilliant sense of humor. And it’s set in Edinburgh! I highly recommend this author!
John Carson never disappoints! Every series is good. The Sean Bracken series is everything you expect from a great mystery. It has a team that works well together. Bracken is good at his job and has a brilliant sense of humor. And it’s set in Edinburgh! I highly recommend this author!
September 18, 2021
A quick-ish fun mystery/Scottish cop book. Do all Scots spend such effort on nasty verbally sparing with their friends, colleagues and family? It gets really old although I expect there is always some level of it in real life.
December 23, 2021
4or5 depends on the reader
The murder almost takes backseat to the interpersonal relationships. This is a good book to develop the characters. Getting ready for next book. This is exiting to know where these characters will go. On to the next book for sure
The murder almost takes backseat to the interpersonal relationships. This is a good book to develop the characters. Getting ready for next book. This is exiting to know where these characters will go. On to the next book for sure
January 9, 2022
Nice little gang of detective s and friends, always a crime to solve
I recommend this read and characters to crime readers who don't like graphic violence, it's a nice read that still keeps you guessing
I recommend this read and characters to crime readers who don't like graphic violence, it's a nice read that still keeps you guessing
July 16, 2022
Pretty good stuff.
Books one thru 3 in this series had more depth .
The other bracken books Caught my interests more
right off of the bat. Just saying.
There are still wonderful aspects about this book.
Books one thru 3 in this series had more depth .
The other bracken books Caught my interests more
right off of the bat. Just saying.
There are still wonderful aspects about this book.
June 15, 2023
Another great story
Another great story by John Carson in the Sean Bracken series. Great characters and a good storyline. This is the first book in this series that I have read and I will now start on the rest in the proper sequence.
Another great story by John Carson in the Sean Bracken series. Great characters and a good storyline. This is the first book in this series that I have read and I will now start on the rest in the proper sequence.
March 12, 2024
Oh what a wild ride!
Author John Carson has done it again with this series. They are a fast read, but there is a lot going on and you are on a ride that will take you through an adventure that will blow your mind
Author John Carson has done it again with this series. They are a fast read, but there is a lot going on and you are on a ride that will take you through an adventure that will blow your mind
September 5, 2021
Great read
Following as the others in the series, good story line but too short. It really could have been listed as a short story.
Following as the others in the series, good story line but too short. It really could have been listed as a short story.
November 7, 2021
okay
Okay, but not riveting. A bit too pat. I did enjoy the father-son banter, even though I didn’t always understand the British slang.
Okay, but not riveting. A bit too pat. I did enjoy the father-son banter, even though I didn’t always understand the British slang.
November 7, 2021
too darn short!
I enjoyed this, nothing too complicated or nasty, especially since I’ve been reading some really unpleasant stuff. Just right for a Sunday evening,
I enjoyed this, nothing too complicated or nasty, especially since I’ve been reading some really unpleasant stuff. Just right for a Sunday evening,
January 5, 2022
A bit disappointed in this. It seems too short, which may be because things seemed to move along with leaps in thinking without much explanation. Seemed a hastily crafted story to me.
January 8, 2022
Good read
Good read could not put it down. Read it in a day and a half as usual a really good plot.
Good read could not put it down. Read it in a day and a half as usual a really good plot.
February 17, 2022
Another brilliant book. Had me gripped throughout. Loved the ending and look forwad to book 5! I highly recommend this series. Easily one of my favourites.
March 18, 2022
Extremely good read and funny too
January 11, 2023
great read
Really enjoyed this story, full of twists and turns. I liked the relationship between Bracken and his Dad.highly recommended to everyone.
Really enjoyed this story, full of twists and turns. I liked the relationship between Bracken and his Dad.highly recommended to everyone.
August 6, 2023
best one yet
Best book in the series I have read so far, a lot of plot twists that I did not expect and good linking back to previous characters
Best book in the series I have read so far, a lot of plot twists that I did not expect and good linking back to previous characters
March 22, 2024
Enjoyed the book good storyline and I loved the twist now to read the next in the series.
January 11, 2022
Really enjoyable. Great characters and very good storyline
Recommend
Recommend
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews