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Bruno Johnson #7
The Heartless
* 9 hours and 7 minutes *
'The Heartless' is the 7th riveting thriller to be added to David Putnam's best-selling Bruno Johnson series. Perfect for fans of Robert Crais and John Sandford.
Former L.A. County Deputy Bruno Johnson is now a bailiff in the courts having stepped down from his role on the Violent Crimes Team to spend more time with his daughter, Olivia. Bruno fears his job decision may have come too late when he gets a frantic call to extricate Olivia from a gunpoint situation in a L.A. gang-infested neighborhood.
His desperation escalates when he realizes Louis Barkow, a stone-cold killer awaiting trial, had orchestrated that deadly tableau. When Barkow and three other criminals break out of jail and hit the streets, Bruno is plunged back into violent crime mode.
Now, the agenda is personal - Olivia has become a pawn in the desperate chase of this sinister murderer. The walls are caving in on Bruno as violence escalates in his hunt for Barkow and his heart strings are stretched to the breaking point as he struggles to protect his daughter not only from the criminal violence swirling around them, but from Olivia’s own impetuous life choices.
©2020 David Putnam (P)2020 David Putnam
'The Heartless' is the 7th riveting thriller to be added to David Putnam's best-selling Bruno Johnson series. Perfect for fans of Robert Crais and John Sandford.
Former L.A. County Deputy Bruno Johnson is now a bailiff in the courts having stepped down from his role on the Violent Crimes Team to spend more time with his daughter, Olivia. Bruno fears his job decision may have come too late when he gets a frantic call to extricate Olivia from a gunpoint situation in a L.A. gang-infested neighborhood.
His desperation escalates when he realizes Louis Barkow, a stone-cold killer awaiting trial, had orchestrated that deadly tableau. When Barkow and three other criminals break out of jail and hit the streets, Bruno is plunged back into violent crime mode.
Now, the agenda is personal - Olivia has become a pawn in the desperate chase of this sinister murderer. The walls are caving in on Bruno as violence escalates in his hunt for Barkow and his heart strings are stretched to the breaking point as he struggles to protect his daughter not only from the criminal violence swirling around them, but from Olivia’s own impetuous life choices.
©2020 David Putnam (P)2020 David Putnam
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 4, 2020
31 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
November 10, 2019
I’m sure we’re all familiar with the old adage ‘Write about what you know ‘. This is particularly relevant for author David Putnam - having spent many years in law enforcement, he’s utilised his experience and expertise to provide readers with a gripping, true to life storyline in ‘The Heartless’.
Court bailiff Bruno Johnson had a much more dangerous life in his previous role as LA County Deputy, chasing down the bad guys in the violent crimes team, but he left that life behind in order to give his teenage daughter Olivia more quality time.
However, when Olivia becomes
besotted with boyfriend Derek Sams (who is every parents nightmare) and calls her dad to tell him that she has unwittingly ended up in a gang infested neighbourhood, with Sams being badly beaten and threatened at gunpoint, it leaves Bruno with no choice but to return to dealing with those who have no moral compass, and to whom violence is their first and last resort, especially when he discovers that Olivia’s situation was ‘arranged’ by a man awaiting trial for cold blooded murder - and that the killer along with three other dangerous criminals have just escaped from jail!
This is, without doubt, a truly action packed read - the narrative crackles with fear and tension most of the way through, the plot was seriously gripping, and the characters were so well drawn that I feel as if I know them.
I would imagine that one of the greatest compliments you can pay an author is to say that they’ve written a page turner - Mr Putnam you’ve written a page turner!
* Thank you to David Putnam for my print copy of The Heartless. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
Court bailiff Bruno Johnson had a much more dangerous life in his previous role as LA County Deputy, chasing down the bad guys in the violent crimes team, but he left that life behind in order to give his teenage daughter Olivia more quality time.
However, when Olivia becomes
besotted with boyfriend Derek Sams (who is every parents nightmare) and calls her dad to tell him that she has unwittingly ended up in a gang infested neighbourhood, with Sams being badly beaten and threatened at gunpoint, it leaves Bruno with no choice but to return to dealing with those who have no moral compass, and to whom violence is their first and last resort, especially when he discovers that Olivia’s situation was ‘arranged’ by a man awaiting trial for cold blooded murder - and that the killer along with three other dangerous criminals have just escaped from jail!
This is, without doubt, a truly action packed read - the narrative crackles with fear and tension most of the way through, the plot was seriously gripping, and the characters were so well drawn that I feel as if I know them.
I would imagine that one of the greatest compliments you can pay an author is to say that they’ve written a page turner - Mr Putnam you’ve written a page turner!
* Thank you to David Putnam for my print copy of The Heartless. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
March 7, 2020
Suspenseful and Gritty Crime Novel!
"Bad Boy Johnson" is the name Bruno Johnson was known as when he worked the streets as a hardcore detective in the Crime Task Force before he retired from the team to become a better father to his daughter Olivia who is now fifteen years old and his hands are more than full being a single parent. Bruno now works as a bailiff in the court system so he can have a regular working schedule but he sorely misses the physical and adrenaline rush of chasing thugs, drug dealers and murderers off the streets. Bruno is a loving and great dad but he carries a lot of guilt trying to to parent Olivia that even under his watchful eye she still managed to get involved with a young punk who is rapidly going down the wrong road and if Bruno doesn't take drastic measures soon he just may lose Olivia. Complicating matters, his assistance is desperately needed back on his old job and before he can give a firm no, he finds that the case has just gotten personal. The stakes are high and the game has changed to life or death and there will be many more lives at stake whether Bruno takes this job or stays working in the court but what will happen to his daughter if he makes the wrong decision!
This book was very fast paced and full of dark, gritty and realistic details and I found very believable. There are many likable as well as despicable characters but they were easy to keep track of due to the author's smooth and descriptive writing. I ended up loving the Bruno Johnson character and I will seek out more books in the series to read. I also could easily see a television series being built around this deeply flawed but loveable character.
A strong and tough man with a wonderfully, soft heart! The story had many u-turns and a shocker at the end of the story which only makes a reader want to read the next book. (Hopefully, there will be a #8 book in the series). Also, at the end there is an author's note about how the writer used some of his own personal experience as a Crime Detective to enhance this wonderful work of fiction.
Well Done David Putnam!
I want to thank Oceanview Publishing via Netgalley and the author who provided a print copy as well, and my review is based only on my own unbiased thoughts and opinions!
I highly recommend this novel and have given a rating of 4 1/2 Action Packed 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠
"Bad Boy Johnson" is the name Bruno Johnson was known as when he worked the streets as a hardcore detective in the Crime Task Force before he retired from the team to become a better father to his daughter Olivia who is now fifteen years old and his hands are more than full being a single parent. Bruno now works as a bailiff in the court system so he can have a regular working schedule but he sorely misses the physical and adrenaline rush of chasing thugs, drug dealers and murderers off the streets. Bruno is a loving and great dad but he carries a lot of guilt trying to to parent Olivia that even under his watchful eye she still managed to get involved with a young punk who is rapidly going down the wrong road and if Bruno doesn't take drastic measures soon he just may lose Olivia. Complicating matters, his assistance is desperately needed back on his old job and before he can give a firm no, he finds that the case has just gotten personal. The stakes are high and the game has changed to life or death and there will be many more lives at stake whether Bruno takes this job or stays working in the court but what will happen to his daughter if he makes the wrong decision!
This book was very fast paced and full of dark, gritty and realistic details and I found very believable. There are many likable as well as despicable characters but they were easy to keep track of due to the author's smooth and descriptive writing. I ended up loving the Bruno Johnson character and I will seek out more books in the series to read. I also could easily see a television series being built around this deeply flawed but loveable character.
A strong and tough man with a wonderfully, soft heart! The story had many u-turns and a shocker at the end of the story which only makes a reader want to read the next book. (Hopefully, there will be a #8 book in the series). Also, at the end there is an author's note about how the writer used some of his own personal experience as a Crime Detective to enhance this wonderful work of fiction.
Well Done David Putnam!
I want to thank Oceanview Publishing via Netgalley and the author who provided a print copy as well, and my review is based only on my own unbiased thoughts and opinions!
I highly recommend this novel and have given a rating of 4 1/2 Action Packed 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠
April 13, 2024
It is so refreshing to read a book that portrays peace officers in a realistic way: there is a tendency for simplistic 'angel/demon' stereotypes that are so common. David Putnam has given us Bruno Johnson (BJ) and I think readers will like the complex problems he has to address. BJ is trying to deal with problems (both his work/private life) and it is becoming harder and harder to separate the two. There is still lots of fast paced action here - but there is a humanization that we so often do not see when reading about the men and women who dedicate their lives to keeping us safe - highly recommended.
November 13, 2019
This is book seven in the Bruno Johnson Series. I was provided with an advanced Reader’s Edition for a review. The review is my own opinion of the story. I have read the prior books in the series. This book is different in that Bruno’s daughter is involved. Olivia is fifteen years old and has been caught up with the wrong people. Bruno must help her get untangled. The book is also different in that it is looking back to when Bruno was a court bailiff.
The book is well written and is action packed. The book kept me on the edge of my chair. The plot twists and turns. Putnam also adds some humor at times to help with the tension of the suspense. The book is as exciting read. I am looking forward to the next episode.
I read this as a softback ARE book. It is 336 pages. Published by Oceanview Publishing
The book is well written and is action packed. The book kept me on the edge of my chair. The plot twists and turns. Putnam also adds some humor at times to help with the tension of the suspense. The book is as exciting read. I am looking forward to the next episode.
I read this as a softback ARE book. It is 336 pages. Published by Oceanview Publishing
November 12, 2019
4.5. ARC coming out Feb 2020... Thank you to David Putnam for personally sending me a copy of his new book and signing it. I wasn't asked to do a review but of course I am!
I found the Bruno Johnson series to be fascinating. Crime cop novel. It is a standalone but I could have easily started at the first one. It is based in LA, Compton, Southgate, CA areas if anyone is familiar, which I am.
Bruno Johnson is now a bailiff after quitting the Violent Crime Unit. His daughter gets taken to a drug house by her boyfriend's rival gang. Four criminals on murder charges escape the jail and Bruno is asked back to the streets to help capture them all while trying to raise a 15 yr old daughter and keep an eye on her gangster boyfriend.
Lots of action, a love triangle, and characters to sympathize with. I should like to read Putnam's other works.
Author's note: This is based on TRUE characters/criminals when Mr. Putnam worked the streets. The events were similar but he wrote it better.
I found the Bruno Johnson series to be fascinating. Crime cop novel. It is a standalone but I could have easily started at the first one. It is based in LA, Compton, Southgate, CA areas if anyone is familiar, which I am.
Bruno Johnson is now a bailiff after quitting the Violent Crime Unit. His daughter gets taken to a drug house by her boyfriend's rival gang. Four criminals on murder charges escape the jail and Bruno is asked back to the streets to help capture them all while trying to raise a 15 yr old daughter and keep an eye on her gangster boyfriend.
Lots of action, a love triangle, and characters to sympathize with. I should like to read Putnam's other works.
Author's note: This is based on TRUE characters/criminals when Mr. Putnam worked the streets. The events were similar but he wrote it better.
February 5, 2020
The Heartless is a fast-paced, compelling, thrill romp! Bruno is a cop turned Court Bailiff trying to prioritize parenting his daughter, Olivia, alone who is nearly 16. While participating in a trial of a notorious murderer, his daughter is kidnapped and mayhem ensues. The criminal on trial is behind it and has cleverly rigged an escape. Murders follow and the hunt for the man behind it is Bruno's new focus. Have not deep fear however since Bruno is a clever man.
I liked the pacing of the story. I found Bruno to be an empathetic man, who balances his bravery in the face of murderous people in his career with his need to be engaged in his outside life. It has been a challenge since he was abandoned by Olivia's mother, he feels a disconnect that he hadn't noticed before. Meantime, there is a certain woman in his life that is pulling him in a direction that challenges his loyalty to others even though it shouldn't. The romance is intriguing enough to reveal Bruno's humanity and also his true moral compass of doing the right thing even if it isn't always quite by the book. Though the situations are serious, Putnam manages to keep the story fairly light with humor and introspection sprinkled throughout the tale.
The author is quite skilled in his writing. I liked how he conveyed his thoughts and showed us the situation instead of telling, which makes the story more fluid. Where the reader observes the events and ensuing tension. It was a fine thriller, with enough suspense to keep one interested and enough details to envision the scenes not in a scary or gory way (my preference). Putnam, a former law officer has a background in gang crimes and he incorporated different scenes from crimes that took place in his stomping grounds during his career although this is a work of fiction. The Author's notes helps with a bit more insight into the details.
This is my first story by the author and though I read this (7th in the series), I found that it was very easy to follow the story line. I did not need to have prior knowledge to enjoy the story.
Thank you goes to the author, who offered this book as a gift without strings attached. All opinions are mine as are my thoughts. If you like suspense that isn't terrifying, just enough to keep those pages turning, this is for you.
For those who can't "wait", it was released today, 2/4/20!
I liked the pacing of the story. I found Bruno to be an empathetic man, who balances his bravery in the face of murderous people in his career with his need to be engaged in his outside life. It has been a challenge since he was abandoned by Olivia's mother, he feels a disconnect that he hadn't noticed before. Meantime, there is a certain woman in his life that is pulling him in a direction that challenges his loyalty to others even though it shouldn't. The romance is intriguing enough to reveal Bruno's humanity and also his true moral compass of doing the right thing even if it isn't always quite by the book. Though the situations are serious, Putnam manages to keep the story fairly light with humor and introspection sprinkled throughout the tale.
The author is quite skilled in his writing. I liked how he conveyed his thoughts and showed us the situation instead of telling, which makes the story more fluid. Where the reader observes the events and ensuing tension. It was a fine thriller, with enough suspense to keep one interested and enough details to envision the scenes not in a scary or gory way (my preference). Putnam, a former law officer has a background in gang crimes and he incorporated different scenes from crimes that took place in his stomping grounds during his career although this is a work of fiction. The Author's notes helps with a bit more insight into the details.
This is my first story by the author and though I read this (7th in the series), I found that it was very easy to follow the story line. I did not need to have prior knowledge to enjoy the story.
Thank you goes to the author, who offered this book as a gift without strings attached. All opinions are mine as are my thoughts. If you like suspense that isn't terrifying, just enough to keep those pages turning, this is for you.
For those who can't "wait", it was released today, 2/4/20!
November 22, 2019
THE HEARTLESS is an incredible read! David Putnam is a former cop who knows his business. He writing feel so very real that everything is believable. This is my first book in the Bruno Johnson series and will not be my last. In this story, Bruno has left the violent crimes unit to work as a court bailiff so he can spend more time with his 15-year-old daughter. Everything goes to hell in a moment. I loved this book and could not get enough! I recommend this book to anyone who loves a non-stop thriller! I would give this book more of a 4.5 stars.
February 4, 2020
LA County Deputy Bruno Johnson has stepped down from the Violent Crimes Team and is now a bailiff in the courts.
During the trial of Louis Barkow, a well known killer, Bruno receives a call from this teenage daughter. She tells him that there are people with guns and she's hiding in a closet. When Bruno arrives, he finds her location is in a gang-infested neighborhood and she's with her boyfriend, a young man that Bruno has warned him to stay away from his daughter.
What really makes Bruno's blood run cold is that Barkow had arranged the entire thing, so as to make his escape from jail.
His daughter needs protecting and Bruno needs to hunt down those who placed her in danger.
It's gritty, it's dark, it's violent. The author brings a lot of credibility to this novel as he spent his career in law enforcement. There is a lot of drama between Bruno, his daughter, and his father.... sometimes with humor, sometimes not. It's a gripping romp with escalating violence ... and his daughter is smack dab in the middle.
Although 7th in this riveting series, this one is easily read as a stand alone. However, I always recommend starting at the very beginning to catch those nuggets that make this a sensational read.
Many thanks to the author / Oceanview Publishing / Netgalley / Edelweiss for the digital copy of this hard-boiled mystery. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 17, 2020
I read this straight through with pretty much no break!
I would like to thank the author for sending me an ARC in the mail and giving me the opportunity to be a part of something like this. This is one of the only two ARCs I have ever done. This was the only hard copy I have ever had. This was a neat experience. Seeing the work that he does with this was also really awesome.
I can see his experience and knowledge come through in his work. That is one of the best things about writing to me; when you can use what you know to reach others.
This volume, though it was my first, was the seventh, but I didn’t feel lost. That’s a plus for ppl who don’t like to follow series or don’t like to follow them in order. There were some
heart-stopping moments, brilliant writing, and amazing action in this book. Recommended.
I would like to thank the author for sending me an ARC in the mail and giving me the opportunity to be a part of something like this. This is one of the only two ARCs I have ever done. This was the only hard copy I have ever had. This was a neat experience. Seeing the work that he does with this was also really awesome.
I can see his experience and knowledge come through in his work. That is one of the best things about writing to me; when you can use what you know to reach others.
This volume, though it was my first, was the seventh, but I didn’t feel lost. That’s a plus for ppl who don’t like to follow series or don’t like to follow them in order. There were some
heart-stopping moments, brilliant writing, and amazing action in this book. Recommended.
September 10, 2024
Fast paced story that held my interest throughout and is overall a good read.
Dislikes: storyline/role of character Nicky.
Recommended 4 star read
My thanks to goodreads and the book's giveaway sponsors for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.
Dislikes: storyline/role of character Nicky.
Recommended 4 star read
My thanks to goodreads and the book's giveaway sponsors for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.
March 23, 2021
Bruno Johnson is one bad mammy jammer! Never knew what was going to happen next!!!
This is the first book I’ve read by David Putnam. I’m now going to try and read the Bruno series!!!
This is the first book I’ve read by David Putnam. I’m now going to try and read the Bruno series!!!
February 13, 2020
I probably wouldn't have requested this title as it screams violence, but when it was offered to me I realized that sometimes these publishers know me better than I know myself! I ended up loving this book! Bruno Johnson is a big bad cop, loving father of Olivia, his fifteen-year-old daughter who is in love with a drug-dealing thug. If that by itself doesn't hook you then this isn't the book for you. And when there's a complicated prison break that Olivia gets caught up in, Bruno ramps up his energy to deter boyfriend, Derek as well as find the prisoners who are all murderers. Yes, lots of violence, action, and the pace never wavers, but Bruno is a lovable yet flawed character who you will root for with every fiber of your being. I also didn't realize this is part of a series starring Bruno so I will definitely be reading more of Putnam!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
December 14, 2019
Compelling, driving, action-packed cop thriller.
Stellar assemblage of characters -good guys, bad guys, good girls gone wrong, and psychotics.
Excellent plotting and set-ups that will keep the reader fanning page after page.
This is the seventh entry in David Putnam's "Bruno Johnson" series.
The first one I've read.
I came into this entry cold without any back story on the lead character.
A brilliantly realized character- a cop who's a single dad trying to raise a daughter in these harrowing times while working as a cop.
That's not working out so good on the domestic front so Bruno retires from the sheriff's department having seen his share of violence and villainy and transfers to the county courts to work as a court bailiff. All the while, Bruno feels that he's neglected his daughter.
Things get wild and the action kicks in when a psycho and his jail-mates break out of the county holding cells and mayhem ensues.
I think I may have enjoyed the segments featuring the psychotic foot-fetishist more than I should have.
The bad guy in this one is exceptionally colorful yet despicable.
The entire novel is engaging, almost unbearably suspenseful but the last hundred pages are a pure over-the-top, pulse-pounding chase-thriller.
The resolution is surprising and ultimately satisfying.
I never saw it coming.
Highest Recommendation!
Stellar assemblage of characters -good guys, bad guys, good girls gone wrong, and psychotics.
Excellent plotting and set-ups that will keep the reader fanning page after page.
This is the seventh entry in David Putnam's "Bruno Johnson" series.
The first one I've read.
I came into this entry cold without any back story on the lead character.
A brilliantly realized character- a cop who's a single dad trying to raise a daughter in these harrowing times while working as a cop.
That's not working out so good on the domestic front so Bruno retires from the sheriff's department having seen his share of violence and villainy and transfers to the county courts to work as a court bailiff. All the while, Bruno feels that he's neglected his daughter.
Things get wild and the action kicks in when a psycho and his jail-mates break out of the county holding cells and mayhem ensues.
I think I may have enjoyed the segments featuring the psychotic foot-fetishist more than I should have.
The bad guy in this one is exceptionally colorful yet despicable.
The entire novel is engaging, almost unbearably suspenseful but the last hundred pages are a pure over-the-top, pulse-pounding chase-thriller.
The resolution is surprising and ultimately satisfying.
I never saw it coming.
Highest Recommendation!
April 28, 2020
I had read the first book and thought it was ok. You can tell that the author has really found his character's voice and polished the writing. This was a far better read for me. Great action and a page turning plot.
December 10, 2019
If you enjoy reading about the good guys coming out on top, with lots of action, twists and turns, great plot development and interesting characters, then I HIGHLY recommend this book!!! It doesn't "read" like a part of a series, but now I'm hooked so I have to go and find the previous 6 and read them. I'm definitely going to start following this author (AKA read everything he writes that I can get my hands on)!!!!!
October 10, 2019
A great read!! A real page turner I could not put it down!
Read
February 24, 2020If you come to The Heartless (Oceanview) expecting a solid, fast-moving police thriller, you’ll be satisfied. But you’ll also discover much more.
David Putnam’s seventh novel about the world of Los Angeles County officer Bruno Johnson involves a hunt for escaped convicts through the meanest streets of Los Angeles. The premise certainly isn’t unfamiliar. Bruno and the bad guy, a sociopathic escaped killer with a foot fetish named Louis Barkow, will have their climactic reckoning. And, since this is a series, you’ll guess that Bruno will remain standing in some fashion at the end. These are roads many authors travel, most notably masters such as Michael Connelly. It’s a tough crowd in which to compete, and Putnam holds his own.
But here’s what peels The Heartless from the pack: The conflict between Bruno and Barkow is scaffolding around a rich, surprising and more intimate story that will touch you deeply. The real battle rages inside Bruno’s head. It’s an all-too-human mess of guilt, survival instincts, rage and regrets tied to a rapidly deteriorating relationship with his teenage daughter, Olivia, that would break any parent’s heart.
Bruno’s concerns explode as he realizes his 15-year-old daughter may not survive the mistakes that they’ve both made. As the story opens. Bruno has stepped down from his role on the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Violent Crimes Team. He’s working as a court bailiff to spend more single-parent time with Olivia, gaining weight and missing the action on the streets in the process.
Barkow is on trial in Bruno’s courtroom when he gets a frantic call from Olivia, who says she and her boyfriend, 17-year-old Derek Sams, are being held at gunpoint. It turns out to be part of Barkow’s elaborate plot to use Olivia as a pawn in a clever jailbreak scheme involving three other hardened criminals and outside enablers. This makes things personal, and Bruno soon returns to the streets in pursuit of the escaped criminals.
Bruno also uses his new freedom and mobility to keep an eye on Derek Sams. To use Bruno’s words, Sams is “every parent’s nightmare,” a wanna-be punk and street thug who’s probably doing drugs and having unprotected sex with his daughter.
As any parent of a teenager would understand, the harder he tries to pry Olivia away from her teenage crush, the more she wants to be with Sams. Bruno’s concerns fester and his temper flares, driving him into acts to push Sams out of the picture that he can’t explain to Olivia. To Putnam’s credit, Sams is no ghetto stereotype either; something that Bruno learns, and it only makes him feel guiltier as his anger rages. Love for his daughter is his self-justification, but in his heart, he knows he’s making things worse. Bruno’s choices will provide more openings for Barkow to exploit.
The author knows these worlds. He comes from a law-enforcement family and worked in everything from narcotics to violent crime teams and pursuit of murder suspects across the western United States. He makes the streets and neighborhoods of Los Angeles seem real. In the book’s afterword, he notes that Barkow’s clever escape plan, which involves a remarkable way to remove windows in an interview room, has real-life roots. The hunt for Barkow takes several interesting twists, and the dialogue is crisp and natural, including street lingo that would seem forced and phony in the hands of less-skilled authors.
But what’s most memorable is Putnam’s grasp of the conflicting motivations that drive Bruno and his police partners. The prices paid are high for some of those who serve and protect us.
You could say that Putnam has written a memorable psychological novel masquerading as a police thriller. Bruno and Olivia will stick with you, and that’s what makes The Heartless special.
David Putnam’s seventh novel about the world of Los Angeles County officer Bruno Johnson involves a hunt for escaped convicts through the meanest streets of Los Angeles. The premise certainly isn’t unfamiliar. Bruno and the bad guy, a sociopathic escaped killer with a foot fetish named Louis Barkow, will have their climactic reckoning. And, since this is a series, you’ll guess that Bruno will remain standing in some fashion at the end. These are roads many authors travel, most notably masters such as Michael Connelly. It’s a tough crowd in which to compete, and Putnam holds his own.
But here’s what peels The Heartless from the pack: The conflict between Bruno and Barkow is scaffolding around a rich, surprising and more intimate story that will touch you deeply. The real battle rages inside Bruno’s head. It’s an all-too-human mess of guilt, survival instincts, rage and regrets tied to a rapidly deteriorating relationship with his teenage daughter, Olivia, that would break any parent’s heart.
Bruno’s concerns explode as he realizes his 15-year-old daughter may not survive the mistakes that they’ve both made. As the story opens. Bruno has stepped down from his role on the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Violent Crimes Team. He’s working as a court bailiff to spend more single-parent time with Olivia, gaining weight and missing the action on the streets in the process.
Barkow is on trial in Bruno’s courtroom when he gets a frantic call from Olivia, who says she and her boyfriend, 17-year-old Derek Sams, are being held at gunpoint. It turns out to be part of Barkow’s elaborate plot to use Olivia as a pawn in a clever jailbreak scheme involving three other hardened criminals and outside enablers. This makes things personal, and Bruno soon returns to the streets in pursuit of the escaped criminals.
Bruno also uses his new freedom and mobility to keep an eye on Derek Sams. To use Bruno’s words, Sams is “every parent’s nightmare,” a wanna-be punk and street thug who’s probably doing drugs and having unprotected sex with his daughter.
As any parent of a teenager would understand, the harder he tries to pry Olivia away from her teenage crush, the more she wants to be with Sams. Bruno’s concerns fester and his temper flares, driving him into acts to push Sams out of the picture that he can’t explain to Olivia. To Putnam’s credit, Sams is no ghetto stereotype either; something that Bruno learns, and it only makes him feel guiltier as his anger rages. Love for his daughter is his self-justification, but in his heart, he knows he’s making things worse. Bruno’s choices will provide more openings for Barkow to exploit.
The author knows these worlds. He comes from a law-enforcement family and worked in everything from narcotics to violent crime teams and pursuit of murder suspects across the western United States. He makes the streets and neighborhoods of Los Angeles seem real. In the book’s afterword, he notes that Barkow’s clever escape plan, which involves a remarkable way to remove windows in an interview room, has real-life roots. The hunt for Barkow takes several interesting twists, and the dialogue is crisp and natural, including street lingo that would seem forced and phony in the hands of less-skilled authors.
But what’s most memorable is Putnam’s grasp of the conflicting motivations that drive Bruno and his police partners. The prices paid are high for some of those who serve and protect us.
You could say that Putnam has written a memorable psychological novel masquerading as a police thriller. Bruno and Olivia will stick with you, and that’s what makes The Heartless special.
February 11, 2020
Once again Mr. Putnam has written another page turner in The Heartless (Bruno Johnson, #7). His first hand knowledge of the Los Angeles Police Department is apparent throughout and with this knowledge and experience he has produced another fast paced, well written and engaging story that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Somehow he still keeps the story, the plot and the characters fresh with each new book. I recommend this latest account in the series and I look forward to Bruno Johnson, #8!
December 1, 2019
The characters in this book were so realistic. Loved the author’s style of writing- quick moving, exciting plot
Want to Read
February 13, 2020This is a very solid mystery with an engaging plot and plenty of action. There are lots of reviews already, so I'll just recommend it to mystery fans.
I really appreciate the review copy!!
I really appreciate the review copy!!
March 19, 2022
This was an enjoyable and entertaining book in the Bruno Johnson series. This has action in it with some suspense, and a family dynamic in it. Like the other books, a lot takes place while he is working on something. The book draws you in at the beginning and keeps you reading until the end. This is very easy to read and flows throughout the book.
September 2, 2020
I've read all of David Putnam's Bruno Johnson series.
Bruno is an ex-con, ex-cop at the start of the series. And he fights many battles to stay alive as he rescues abused children (illegally).
But what impresses me the most is how the author has circled back to Bruno's earlier life when he was a young cop and single father to Olivia.
The Heartless focuses on his time with Olivia, her vulnerability in Bruno's world and the perils she faces.
Like the other Bruno thrillers, this one delivers heart-thumping action, exposed the raw underbelly o LA, all while pulling at the heartstrings as a dad tries to protect his little girl.
Bruno is an ex-con, ex-cop at the start of the series. And he fights many battles to stay alive as he rescues abused children (illegally).
But what impresses me the most is how the author has circled back to Bruno's earlier life when he was a young cop and single father to Olivia.
The Heartless focuses on his time with Olivia, her vulnerability in Bruno's world and the perils she faces.
Like the other Bruno thrillers, this one delivers heart-thumping action, exposed the raw underbelly o LA, all while pulling at the heartstrings as a dad tries to protect his little girl.
November 22, 2019
This book had me from the minute I started it. Is was a fast read and kept me interested through the whole book.
January 15, 2020
Meet Bruno Johnson. A former LA Co Deputy Sheriff with a history in Violent Crime, Bruno is now working as a bailiff for the courts of the city of LA. As a single dad, he took on this job to be able to spend more time with his daughter, Olivia, a 15-yr old spitfire with a headstrong attitude that thinks she can take care of herself. Bruno’s rock and stand-by is his father to help when he’s unable to be with “O,” his nickname for Olivia. Both men are kind and strong and love O to pieces, will do anything to protect her.
Bruno gets involved in an investigation that gets complex when his daughter calls him for help. She’s in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and with the wrong people. He drops everything to go to her and so does one of his buddies, Judge Connors, who occasionally needs a little action to give some diversity to his life behind the robe.
This is my first novel by this author, who kindly supplied me with an ARC to read and review before the release date coming up in February. It read fine as a stand alone, and came to a satisfactory conclusion, leaving the reader wondering what happens next. That is what a series is all about. Something to look forward to.
Fast paced and with strong, interesting protagonists, I was never bored and intend to read more by this author in future.
If you are a fan of crime fiction and of reading series, this may be a new go-to author for you. David Putnam has several novels out there. His experience in law enforcement in real life makes for some immersible reading that will leave you happy to have made the acquaintance of Bruno Johnson.
A book launch for The HEARTLESS is scheduled for February 8th in the city of Orange, in Southern California. Check author David Putnam’s Facebook page for details. Happy to recommend this.
Bruno gets involved in an investigation that gets complex when his daughter calls him for help. She’s in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and with the wrong people. He drops everything to go to her and so does one of his buddies, Judge Connors, who occasionally needs a little action to give some diversity to his life behind the robe.
This is my first novel by this author, who kindly supplied me with an ARC to read and review before the release date coming up in February. It read fine as a stand alone, and came to a satisfactory conclusion, leaving the reader wondering what happens next. That is what a series is all about. Something to look forward to.
Fast paced and with strong, interesting protagonists, I was never bored and intend to read more by this author in future.
If you are a fan of crime fiction and of reading series, this may be a new go-to author for you. David Putnam has several novels out there. His experience in law enforcement in real life makes for some immersible reading that will leave you happy to have made the acquaintance of Bruno Johnson.
A book launch for The HEARTLESS is scheduled for February 8th in the city of Orange, in Southern California. Check author David Putnam’s Facebook page for details. Happy to recommend this.
October 2, 2020
This is my first read in this series and it certainly won't be the last.
Bruno was a cop in the violent crimes unit and is now a court bailiff. He changed careers to spend time with his daughter Olivia and she is central to the story here.
The characters are incredible, I could picture them in my mind and relate to their situations. The story flows smoothly; it was a well planned roller coaster ride and I loved every minute of it.
One minute my heart was racing as I felt what Bruno was going through and the next minute I was swept up in the "awww" factor when we meet Junior Mint.
There is a lot of action here and a lot of heart and I'm looking forward to spending more time in Bruno's world.
Bruno was a cop in the violent crimes unit and is now a court bailiff. He changed careers to spend time with his daughter Olivia and she is central to the story here.
The characters are incredible, I could picture them in my mind and relate to their situations. The story flows smoothly; it was a well planned roller coaster ride and I loved every minute of it.
One minute my heart was racing as I felt what Bruno was going through and the next minute I was swept up in the "awww" factor when we meet Junior Mint.
There is a lot of action here and a lot of heart and I'm looking forward to spending more time in Bruno's world.
October 2, 2019
Another amazing Bruno Johnson novel! Started a bit slow, but once it picked up speed there was no slowing down! Bruno is such an easy character to love and I wish other novels had a protagonist of that caliber. Putnam is great at making readers connect with the characters in situations that feel so real. I really enjoyed it and hope to see more Bruno Johnson novels in the future!
October 27, 2019
This was an excellent book, the story and the characters are so believable. Another action packed novel by David Putnam. The latest in the Bruno Johnson series is another winner. Keep them coming!
Nina
Nina
October 27, 2019
Action-filled from beginning to end. Couldn't put the book down...especially the last 100 pages. I was glued to my couch for hours. If you like action, crime fighting and suspense, this book is a must! My first time reading a David Putnam book. Will definitely read more!
November 7, 2019
I have not read The Heartless yet but have started on the entire series of Bruno Johnson books.
Read #1 and #2 and have enjoyed them very much. Looking forward to continue reading the series. Bruno Johnson is an interesting character with lots of sides to him. Good reading!!!
Read #1 and #2 and have enjoyed them very much. Looking forward to continue reading the series. Bruno Johnson is an interesting character with lots of sides to him. Good reading!!!
November 16, 2019
This was my first Bruno Johnson novel, won as a Goodreads giveaway and I admit, meeting Bruno while he worked as a bailiff was a bit of a surprise. I'm thinking "I thought Bruno was some kind of street smart, rough and tough cop. What's he doing working as a bailiff?" It didn't take long for all hell to break loose though and I was hooked.
I did get a bit aggravated with Bruno's klutzy attempt at finding a love interest, but once that issue was resolved we got back to the essence of the book and honestly, my pulse rate really picked up when I was dropped into a gunfight/brawl in Mel's, a car chase on Alameda and the final confrontation in Muscle Max.
Mr. Putnam knows his stuff and he writes with absolute clarity; his descriptions were spot on and the noise and smells were so real, I couldn't read fast enough. I think that's called a 'page-turner'.
I did get a bit aggravated with Bruno's klutzy attempt at finding a love interest, but once that issue was resolved we got back to the essence of the book and honestly, my pulse rate really picked up when I was dropped into a gunfight/brawl in Mel's, a car chase on Alameda and the final confrontation in Muscle Max.
Mr. Putnam knows his stuff and he writes with absolute clarity; his descriptions were spot on and the noise and smells were so real, I couldn't read fast enough. I think that's called a 'page-turner'.
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