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The Killer Sermon: A Cole Huebsch Novel
An aging priest in rural Wisconsin gives an impassioned Christmas homily condemning abortion as murder and exhorting his parishioners to stop it. A former mayor responds by starting a hunger strike in city hall, and the editor of the local weekly newspaper begins running a counter at the top of each edition that estimates the number of abortions performed since Roe v Wade. A third member of the congregation takes a more lethal approach and begins to target reproductive rights physicians for murder. Cole Huebsch is a pro-life leaning Milwaukee FBI agent. Michele Fields is a pro-choice leaning reporter. They need to set aside their differences to catch the killer before the country is torn apart. The Killer Sermon is a fast moving thriller that reminds us that our words matter, and that regardless of how big our differences on divisive issues, we can still find respect, and maybe more…
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 28, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 31, 2022
Very interesting read. The author does an excellent job of showing the commitment pro life people have. He shows extremes in this commitment; in one case someone willing to sacrifice their own life for the unborn and in another case someone who twists it into a reason to kill. He is also able to create characters who show deep beliefs but are also compassionate; this more accurate portrayal is very refreshing to see. The story is interesting and suspenseful and the characters are believable. I hope there will be another book in this series soon.
March 11, 2022
There's nothing quite as exciting as reading a book by a local author! The mystery was fun, the writing was enjoyable, and the nods to the home town are outstanding. Would recommend to anyone who wants a good book by a local author!
July 17, 2022
Not a thriller reader, but totally enjoyed reading.
February 18, 2022
The Killer Sermon, by Kevin Kluesner, is set in chilly Wisconsin in the wintertime, specifically in Milwaukee, and Prairie du Chien (English translation, “dog prairie”), a small community on the west side of the state hard by the Mississippi River. (I lived in Wisconsin over the winter of 1971-1972, and you can believe it when I say it was cracking cold.) The story revolves around the shooting of three doctors who provide abortion services in the northern Illinois-southern Wisconsin area Naturally, the politically-charged murder spree attracts the attention of Milwaukee FBI SAC Cole Huebsch, who sets out to discover who is the killer and what is his motivation. Turns out, the killer is a member of a Catholic parish in Prairie du Chien, and on one particular Sunday, the pastor there delivers an unexpected and uncharacteristic stem-winder of a sermon, calling on his parishioners, and indeed Catholics everywhere, to “stand up” against the murder of innocents. Three members of the congregation heed the call: One goes on a hunger strike, one begins publishing in the local newspaper a running total of the number of unborn children who have perished as a result of an abortion procedure, and one begins shooting abortion doctors. Together, they set the FBI investigation in motion.
An interesting wrinkle occurs early on, when the killer begins sending emails to Milwaukee Sentinel-Journal columnist Michelle Fields, apparently in an effort to justify his actions. Of course, Michelle contacts Cole, and eventually the two connect, but to the author’s credit, he allows their relationship to develop over time.
One other note: there is an occasional dialog over the right/wrong/morality of terminating pregnancies, mostly between Michelle and Cole, and while the author does not mount a soapbox to take a position on the subject, he does permit an intelligent discussion to take shape over what is certainly a controversial topic.
I corresponded with the author prior to reading the book, and he promised me that Killer Sermon would be a quick read. He was right, although perhaps modesty kept him from promising it would also be an exceptionally satisfying one. I unreservedly recommend this book, and encourage readers to follow this talented author. I have every reason to believe his next effort will be every bit as good as this one.
--Gregory Stout, author of Lost Little Girl and Gideon’s Ghost
An interesting wrinkle occurs early on, when the killer begins sending emails to Milwaukee Sentinel-Journal columnist Michelle Fields, apparently in an effort to justify his actions. Of course, Michelle contacts Cole, and eventually the two connect, but to the author’s credit, he allows their relationship to develop over time.
One other note: there is an occasional dialog over the right/wrong/morality of terminating pregnancies, mostly between Michelle and Cole, and while the author does not mount a soapbox to take a position on the subject, he does permit an intelligent discussion to take shape over what is certainly a controversial topic.
I corresponded with the author prior to reading the book, and he promised me that Killer Sermon would be a quick read. He was right, although perhaps modesty kept him from promising it would also be an exceptionally satisfying one. I unreservedly recommend this book, and encourage readers to follow this talented author. I have every reason to believe his next effort will be every bit as good as this one.
--Gregory Stout, author of Lost Little Girl and Gideon’s Ghost
April 11, 2025
I just finished The Killer Sermon. Wow! I found another great author - and he has a book series! I am a Wisconsin native and also used to live and work in Milwaukee, so its really fun when a book is based on a location you are familiar with.
Kevin does a super job of painting a picture and setting the stage for the characters in this book. I always try to find books in the thriller, mystery and suspense categories and this book hits all 3!
I would definitely put Kevin's writing style up with any of the big name authors I have read. He doesn't include a lot of fluff and keeps the suspense and plot building to the point where it is hard to put the book down.
I just started the second book and it is certainly another page turner! I see there is a third book in his series - I only wish there were several more. Keep up the great work Kevin!
Kevin does a super job of painting a picture and setting the stage for the characters in this book. I always try to find books in the thriller, mystery and suspense categories and this book hits all 3!
I would definitely put Kevin's writing style up with any of the big name authors I have read. He doesn't include a lot of fluff and keeps the suspense and plot building to the point where it is hard to put the book down.
I just started the second book and it is certainly another page turner! I see there is a third book in his series - I only wish there were several more. Keep up the great work Kevin!
July 26, 2022
The Killer Sermon is a thinking person’s thriller. Kluesner engages in controversial topics with sensitivity and understanding from all viewpoints and on multiple levels. He tackles abortion rights, gun laws, and religion and he does it with tight, smooth prose and fast-paced action. This book has the intimacy of a small-town story with the scope of big city problems. By the time you finish The Killer Sermon, you will have had a great deal to think about and you will know just enough about Cole Huebsch to crave the next book in the series. I’m curious about the controversies that Kluesner will tackle next time.
July 26, 2022
The Killer Sermon is a thinking person’s thriller. Kluesner engages in controversial topics with sensitivity and understanding from all viewpoints and on multiple levels. He tackles abortion rights, gun laws, and religion and he does it with tight, smooth prose and fast-paced action. This book has the intimacy of a small-town story with the scope of big city problems. By the time you finish The Killer Sermon, you will have had a great deal to think about and you will know just enough about Cole Huebsch to crave the next book in the series. I’m curious about the controversies that Kluesner will tackle next time.
May 18, 2023
I love a good Wisconsin (or Michigan) author. The initial subject matter made me anxious because I generally read for pleasure, not political debate, and the author was from one of the infamous WOW counties. My anxiety was misplaced; the entire premise was handled with respect for all perspectives and the mystery was supreme. The author deftly wove key details with factual information resulting in an exceptional novel. I've already reserved the next book and find myself comparing the writing to some of my favorites (Jeffrey Archer, William Kent Krueger, Greg Iles, Steve Cavanagh, Steve Hamilton).
March 8, 2024
On my quest to read more local authors this year! Kevin Kluesner's novel did not disappoint. Kevin touches on a sensitive and polarizing topic that is incredibly relevant right now. I loved the WI setting and the local feeling (I can see the FBI building on the lakefront as I'm reading because its practically in my backyard!).
Mr. Kluesner's characters kept my attention and I especially enjoyed the banter between the MC Cole and his team at the FBI.
The subject matter is tough but Mr. Kluesner addressed it very well and showed understanding from all angles. Highly recommend and look forward to reading more.
Mr. Kluesner's characters kept my attention and I especially enjoyed the banter between the MC Cole and his team at the FBI.
The subject matter is tough but Mr. Kluesner addressed it very well and showed understanding from all angles. Highly recommend and look forward to reading more.
February 16, 2025
Kevin Kluesner’s “The Killer Sermon” introduces us to Cole Huebsch, a Milwaukee FBI agent. The story follows Cole as he works to find a serial killer. The book is fast paced and thought-provoking yet with liberal bits of humor scattered throughout. Making this story currently relevant is that the killer targets reproductive rights physicians. Throughout the crime solving process, this divisive topic is confronted unapologetically yet is handled with care and objectivity, never preachy or one-sided. The more than a few Milwaukee references add an air of authenticity to be enjoyed by all. This is an enjoyable and entertaining book – a classic page turner.
January 13, 2022
It was hard to put this book down. I was hooked from the first page to the last.
The main character is from a smaller town in Wisconsin which makes this even more enjoyable to me as I can relate to the surroundings as if I was there. For city lovers, the main character, Cole Huebsch lives and works in Milwaukee, WI. The topic from which the murder arises is very political and controversial. The author does a great job of remaining neutral.
I have already recommended this novel to all of my friends and family!
I am anxiously awaiting the second book in this series.
The main character is from a smaller town in Wisconsin which makes this even more enjoyable to me as I can relate to the surroundings as if I was there. For city lovers, the main character, Cole Huebsch lives and works in Milwaukee, WI. The topic from which the murder arises is very political and controversial. The author does a great job of remaining neutral.
I have already recommended this novel to all of my friends and family!
I am anxiously awaiting the second book in this series.
May 30, 2026
I chose this book for my book club with a bit of hesitation due to the topic of abortion presented in it. We have members with varying opinions and I was afraid to open a can of worms. Although the topic was the essence of the murder mystery, Kevin Kluesner handled it with care, presenting both sides realistically. I enjoyed the characters and plot, but especially the fact that it took place in Wisconsin. It was fun to "visit" many locations through Kluesner's thorough descriptions. While some readers may find parts somewhat cliché, it truly was an enjoyable read.
January 6, 2022
A captivating read that will keep you fully engaged on your journey with Agent Huebsch to stop a killer. The story is built around one of the most highly charged issues of our time, but the author treats each perspective with sensitivity and respect. If you like thrillers but want something more than a typical "whodunnit," something with more of an edge, this is for you! I'm looking forward to the next one.
January 11, 2022
This thriller is engaging from the first few pages! I was looking for a “good read” as my first in 2022 and learned of Kevin Kluesner’s debut novel New Year’s Eve day. I felt drawn into the psyche of each character and loved the descriptions of the experiences shaping their being. Each chapter provided details and a direction that was not predictable yet integral pieces of the puzzle.
I am hoping his next book is well underway!
I am hoping his next book is well underway!
March 6, 2022
P. 171 "Every assignment is big in cases like this it's getting the little things done right that catches the killer. Work fast but don't cut corners. We need everyone on this 911 dispatchers, clerical people, everybody can pitch it. Thank you and good luck."
Interesting how the minds of the characters work. Everyone THINKS they are doing the RIGHT thing. They are from their perspective. Interesting connections to my hometown. Some unforeseen twists and turns. Hopeful ending.
Interesting how the minds of the characters work. Everyone THINKS they are doing the RIGHT thing. They are from their perspective. Interesting connections to my hometown. Some unforeseen twists and turns. Hopeful ending.
April 27, 2022
I enjoyed this, especially being a new Wisconsin writer, fun to read about some local places. I think this was a good start to a series, Cole is a strong main character to follow now. I thought he handled the subject of abortion very well without going too far on either side, I don't feel he will alienate any readers. I'll be looking forward to his next book and curious what subject he will choose to focus on in the next mystery.
May 10, 2022
"The Killer Sermon" combines a captivating murder mystery with a fair-minded examination at a personal level of abortion and the emotions it inflames. Perfect example of how a well-told story can help us see varying perspectives that we may dismiss in a heated debate on a controversial issue.
This timely tale is built around compelling characters with genuine dialogue and enough twists and turns to keep you turning the page.
Can't wait to read the next Cole Huebsch Novel from this author.
This timely tale is built around compelling characters with genuine dialogue and enough twists and turns to keep you turning the page.
Can't wait to read the next Cole Huebsch Novel from this author.
November 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. Loved the hometown references. The main character, Cole Huebsch, was very likable and I look forward to the series. The topic is controversial yet both sides were represented. The characters had differences in opinion yet could still get along. I only wish more people would do that in real life! I had my guesses as to the identity of the killer as I read, but there were enough twists to keep me guessing. I highly recommend.
January 17, 2022
I literally couldn't put the book down! Cole Huebsch is a charming and flawed character. He is easy to root for and you can't help but connect to his small-town charms even though he tries to hide them as a top FBI agent. Readers will grapple with their own morality as a vigilante is looking to take out surgeons performing abortions in the midwest.
February 17, 2022
I loved the authenticity of Southern Wisconsin that was portrayed from the mannerisms of the characters, to the finite details of things like the interior of The Journal Sentinel building. This might be a local homer bias, but that really made me feel that much more like I was experiencing a true crime journey.
March 13, 2022
What a great experience to read about your hometown from some one you know. I am a very visual reader and I could see everything described in Prairie just as if I was there. Kevin tackled a controversial subject matter but did it very tactfully, staying true to the beliefs of a very Catholic dominated town. Looking forward to reading more by him
April 16, 2025
I found this to be one of those can't put down stories, especially since I live in Wisconsin and am familiar with western Wisconsin and both Montfort and Prairie du Chien. I enjoyed the rambling with Cole and his work friends as they picked on each other and managed a few humorous comebacks. Very realistic to me. Of course the "whodunit" was quite a mystery and surprise. I highly recommend!
June 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. The author draws you in with his creative and talented writing. I especially loved how he included church , God, and a "say what moment" and includes many locations that I have been to. I was lucky enough to meet the author at a book signing and he is both nice and smart. Read the book , I don't want to give any spoilers.
January 19, 2022
Highly entertaining mystery/thriller. Excellent writing. Fast-paced. Great characters. Wonderful descriptions of Wisconsin, its locales and people. Highly recommend. Looking forward to the next Cole Huebsch Mystery!
March 20, 2022
Very enjoyable read!
A very well written a!nd enjoyable book! I am from
prairie du Chien. The local color and description made
the book a 5 rating for me! I will be looking for more books by this author!
A very well written a!nd enjoyable book! I am from
prairie du Chien. The local color and description made
the book a 5 rating for me! I will be looking for more books by this author!
April 6, 2022
It’s a well written, short read, murder mystery. The kind of book you hate to put down and can’t wait to pick up again. He covered both sides on the topic of abortion equally. It was not one sided. This book is a must read!
September 15, 2022
Great read
This book was informative about the issues of abortion. Fast paced and it kept the reader on the edge while the search for the killer unfolded . I loved the detail and characters, Thank you for your work!
This book was informative about the issues of abortion. Fast paced and it kept the reader on the edge while the search for the killer unfolded . I loved the detail and characters, Thank you for your work!
July 10, 2023
could not stop reading
This book really grabbed my attention. I would’ve liked a little more character development, but I thought the underlying philosophy of both the primary characters worked well. It was a fairly balanced approach to the questions about abortion.
This book really grabbed my attention. I would’ve liked a little more character development, but I thought the underlying philosophy of both the primary characters worked well. It was a fairly balanced approach to the questions about abortion.
January 15, 2025
It was interesting to read a book set in Wisconsin with a lot of the setting near my home. Being pro-life, I was a bit uncertain about the abortion theme, but the author is fair and untargeting. More of a mystery the man a thriller, this book is a quick, interesting read.
February 13, 2025
I loved the book ! It was an easy read dealing with relevant social issues. I enjoyed the story line with Cole Huebsch and Michelle Fields. The settings of Milwaukee and Prarie du Chuin were fun to get to know through Kevin’s writing.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews