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Stealing John Hancock
John "JP" Hancock's day just got a whole lot worse. After a nasty breakup and being scammed into an acting job that doesn't exist, JP suddenly finds himself the unwitting victim of an identity theft that has police detective Nya Grey hot on his heels for multimillion-dollar real estate fraud he didn't commit. With the police closing in, JP finds an unlikely ally in the Vindicator, a secretive and brilliant hacker who agrees to help clear his name by whatever means necessary. But there's more to the story than meets the eye, and they soon find themselves at the centre of a high-stakes international pursuit with a master con artist. Failure to outwit him could land them in prison or far worse, but if they succeed, the payoff includes the ultimate revenge.
380 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2022
6 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 19, 2022
Serious page turner! Such a submersive experience, from the characters to the story this book totally draws you in. Love a book with strong female characters. Erika is such a bad a$$. Lots of twists to always keep you guessing. No spoilers, but WOW, the end.
December 7, 2022
John JP Hancock's day just got a whole lot worse. After a nasty breakup and being scammed into an acting job that doesn't exist, JP suddenly finds himself the unwitting victim of an identity theft that has police detective Nya Grey hot on his heels for multimillion-dollar real estate fraud he didn't commit.
What happens when you buy a house only to arrive and find out it is not yours? A whole lot of trouble is about to begin.. This is the situation a young family find themselves in and then there is JP, whose whole life is starting to fall apart. Always out to make a quick buck things are turning horribly haywire for JP, but does he only have himself to blame?
This has an interesting cast of characters that carry the story along a nice pace and create depth to the story. Great plot and I found myself filling an afternoon reading this in one sitting as I found it so enjoyable. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest , unbiased review. 4 stars
What happens when you buy a house only to arrive and find out it is not yours? A whole lot of trouble is about to begin.. This is the situation a young family find themselves in and then there is JP, whose whole life is starting to fall apart. Always out to make a quick buck things are turning horribly haywire for JP, but does he only have himself to blame?
This has an interesting cast of characters that carry the story along a nice pace and create depth to the story. Great plot and I found myself filling an afternoon reading this in one sitting as I found it so enjoyable. Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest , unbiased review. 4 stars
October 26, 2022
A young family attempts to move into their new home only to discover the house they think they have purchased was never for sale. So begins Stealing John Hancock by mother-daughter writing duo Hejsa and Alie Christensen, whose thriller takes a deep dive into a world of cyber-crime, crypto-currency, identity theft, forgeries, high-tech computer phishing, and fraudulent practices. The writing is fast-paced and the tension builds while the lives of innocent victims quickly disintegrate, leaving them powerless as a result of this shocking new-level of criminality. Gran, JP and the Vindicator are compelling, well-rounded characters, while RCMP Officer Grey deserves to show up in another book or two. As a somewhat flawed but savvy detective, Grey pushes back against the not-so-subtle acts of misogyny among her colleagues and superiors, and demonstrates a strength that readers will want to know more about. This book informs as well as entertains, providing an expose of well-researched present-day corruption while also functioning as a moral fable. Readers will find themselves questioning the decisions they make and the precautions they put in place in order to protect their privacy and confidential data. Highly recommended.
September 22, 2022
John Paul Hancock had his identity stolen by a hacker and a fraudster Namemax in while looking for him he met Erica. Bethany and Cliff we’re victims of Max who they knew is John Paul Hancock and just like JP, Bethany will not only lose her husband and almost her sanity due to being ridiculed online for the woman who bought a house that wasn’t for sale. Eventually JP wants his name back but by going after this with Alex help he almost loses his life but in the end he’ll have to settle for something different not less just different. I really enjoyed this book but I was hoping JP and Erica‘s ending would be different but I still thoroughly enjoyed this book a total five star read. I wish I could’ve done the summary more justice but I am not the writer I am just the reader and a happy reader at that. I received this book from NetGalleyShelf and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
September 8, 2022
Thanks to #NetGalley, #TurnstonePress, #H&AChristensen, #StealingJohnHancock for the opportunity to read this novel early. This arch gets started before you are ready but be prepared that is how this goes the entire time twisted from the beginning to the very end. II loved the way this all played out but I felt it left itself open for a possible sequel from any number of characters. This is a must read for anyone looking for a new type of suspense I was often.....I didn’t see that coming. Great a Great Great first novel for the writing duo. I am looking forward to the next novel!
November 9, 2022
If you can write a 400+ page book that is never once boring, that is quite an accomplishment. H&A Christensen have done that. Endearing, well-constructed characters, a journey through local Ontario towns with familiar places, and a story that will keep you engaged, I really enjoyed this book! The "bad" character reminded me so much of Edward Norton's character in Glass Onion: rich, cocky, evil. (Was able to see Glass Onion early at TIFF.) Can't wait to read more from this duo.
September 20, 2022
Fast paced and action packed, Stealing John Hancock is an engaging read from start to finish, with intriguing characters that really suck you into their lives/plight. The character JP is easy to identify with through his struggles with where he comes from to how he gets himself out of his current situation. It's impossible not to sympathize with Cliff and Beth as their whole situation is just crazy.
Nya’s problems within the police force had me so riled up... I really felt for her. And finally, Erika, I just loved her... I mean who wouldn't?
Anyway, a fantastic read. Hard to believe this is a first novel from the talented duo. Very much looking forward to what else they come up with!
August 27, 2022
Couldn’t put it down!
July 3, 2023
Stealing John Hancock has easily become one of my new favourite books. I originally read the preview on the Kindle App and fell in love with the writing style and plot, so asked for it as a birthday gift.
The book sucked me and made me forget everything around me - it has been a while since a book has managed to achieve that!
I loved everything about this book so much that I did not want it to end and actively had to stop myself from reading it in one go so I could savour it.
Stealing John Hancock follows the story of JP Hancock, whose identity was stolen and used in a real estate fraud. While the main focus is on JP and his quest to uncover the true criminal with the help of the Vindicator, the book also provides glimpses into the stories of Nya and the Marley family (the victims of this particularly real estate fraud).
The plot is thrilling and exciting and the way Alie and Hejsa write makes this book a true page-turner.
I loved how we get to see JP grow as a person and his character evolving as a result of his misfortune. The mystery surrounding both Erika and Max made them intriguing characters, as well, and Nya's sections show her to be a fascinating character that I honestly would love to read more about! (Actually, I'd love to see them all again! I'm not yet ready to say goodbye to them!)
Despite the plot and genre, the book contains some lighter and funnier moments that I couldn't help but laugh at. And the little references to pop culture, e.g. Star Wars and Star Trek, not only made me smile but gave another depth to the book.
The book left me on the edge of my seat the entire time, there were few moments when you could anticipate what would happen - especially the ending, which was absolutely brilliant!
I can definitely only recommend this book - I know I'm already telling all of my friends to get it and will definitely be reading it again.
The book sucked me and made me forget everything around me - it has been a while since a book has managed to achieve that!
I loved everything about this book so much that I did not want it to end and actively had to stop myself from reading it in one go so I could savour it.
Stealing John Hancock follows the story of JP Hancock, whose identity was stolen and used in a real estate fraud. While the main focus is on JP and his quest to uncover the true criminal with the help of the Vindicator, the book also provides glimpses into the stories of Nya and the Marley family (the victims of this particularly real estate fraud).
The plot is thrilling and exciting and the way Alie and Hejsa write makes this book a true page-turner.
I loved how we get to see JP grow as a person and his character evolving as a result of his misfortune. The mystery surrounding both Erika and Max made them intriguing characters, as well, and Nya's sections show her to be a fascinating character that I honestly would love to read more about! (Actually, I'd love to see them all again! I'm not yet ready to say goodbye to them!)
Despite the plot and genre, the book contains some lighter and funnier moments that I couldn't help but laugh at. And the little references to pop culture, e.g. Star Wars and Star Trek, not only made me smile but gave another depth to the book.
The book left me on the edge of my seat the entire time, there were few moments when you could anticipate what would happen - especially the ending, which was absolutely brilliant!
I can definitely only recommend this book - I know I'm already telling all of my friends to get it and will definitely be reading it again.
November 22, 2022
This was a fantastic novel. I’ve really struggling recently with reading. My on and off reading slump has only found reprieve in authors that I know and love and that hasn’t been very often. This book though renewed my interest in reading and my hope in my ability to continue. I’ve actually been looking for other books and planning what to read next, new novels I’m interested in.
But I loved this. This was a fantastic novel about identity, perspective, and quite simply moving on. It is a thriller but at its core is about humanity and the nuances that drive actions and their consequences, cause and effect, past and present and future. It’s beautiful and brilliantly written.
This book certainly gave me a lot to think about and I might be adding to this review later. Read this book!
But I loved this. This was a fantastic novel about identity, perspective, and quite simply moving on. It is a thriller but at its core is about humanity and the nuances that drive actions and their consequences, cause and effect, past and present and future. It’s beautiful and brilliantly written.
This book certainly gave me a lot to think about and I might be adding to this review later. Read this book!
September 25, 2022
Do you like being scammed, being in horrible relationships and having trouble with the law? Me neither, but that's all behind me and had no PTSD when reading this thrilling book. It literally turned the pages on its own. I just sat there. Like magic.
Don't miss this one folks, it is an easy recommendation. Also, don't wait for the Hulu (Paramount+?) movie on this one - no screenwriting can match the detail and superb imagery from these pages. Unless H&A write the screenplay. H&A? Ahhhh...the mystery!!!
You go read now!
Don't miss this one folks, it is an easy recommendation. Also, don't wait for the Hulu (Paramount+?) movie on this one - no screenwriting can match the detail and superb imagery from these pages. Unless H&A write the screenplay. H&A? Ahhhh...the mystery!!!
You go read now!
July 2, 2023
This book makes you appreciate your life. A nightmare situation with no solution in sight..entangling several parties and forever changing their destinies. The writing is superb and would highly recommend to everybody.
January 10, 2023
Compelling characters, great pace, and a terrific adventure! Especially fun to read a book set in my hometown.
June 9, 2023
I feel pretty bad giving three stars to a first book but let me explain myself. This is my opinion and I’m sorry if my review sound mean, I promise that it’s not my intention. I’m just trying to be constructive and honest and explain the three stars. Sorry if I’m wrong at some places, I have a pretty weird memory and reading is sometimes hard for me so it happens for me to skip a few sentences and miss something. (Also I’m just 18 so maybe it’s why some of the stuff in the book didn’t really make sense to me)
First of all, the identity theft concept looked pretty promising and interesting at the beginning. It seemed like a pretty original concept. But the book wasn’t as good as I expected it to be.
I don’t think it could be seen as a thriller, it’s more like a mystery.
The story was pretty slow and sometimes I couldn’t really tell where it was going. There was some storylines that didn’t seem very necessary.
I’m not at all saying that I disliked the book or anything like that, but it was pretty hard for me to really get into it while reading it and be interested in the story. For me, a book that I’m into is a book that I enjoy reading, the reading of it is fluid. For Stealing John Hancock, I didn’t really enjoy it and my reading of it wasn’t fluid (except for a few chapters where I saw that I was kinda into it). I felt like I had to force myself to read it a little bit. Again, it doesn’t mean that I disliked it, but I just wasn’t able to enjoy it, which is one of the reasons why I gave it 3 stars.
The beginning of the book seemed promising and I really wanted to get into it but I just wasn’t able to. The story seemed to drag itself (I don’t know if it’s understandable and if ‘drag itself’ works in English? Sorry English isn’t my first language) and seemed slow so it was hard to get into it.
But the whole time I was reading I was wondering what was gonna be the twist to the story or what the end was gonna be so I guess that’s a good thing.
The end though was satisfying (even though it felt kind of forced and weird and there wasn’t any twists unless I’m mistaken) and seemed to hint to a sequel, which would be interesting.
Also, I liked that JP and Erika’s “relationship” was only hinted and not showed at the end of the book. Like, this way their “relationship” (sorry I can’t really remember the word I’m looking for but I know relationship doesn’t fit) doesn’t come out of nowhere or is being rushed into the story and it just came out as a surprise and it hints at a sequel and says it’s gonna be deepened in the sequel. I like that it hints at it being deepened in a sequel (if I’m not mistaken about this) rather than it being rushed and pushed into the story.
Hopefully, if there is a sequel, some stuff will be more explained and it will be more constructed as the first one. Unfortunately, I don’t think I will be reading the sequel if there is one. The first one already wasn’t really for me but I’m sure a lot of people will be interested in a sequel.
There’s also seem to be some plot holes. Sorry if I’m wrong at some places.
1- Grey is obsessed with catching Hancock but she and everyone else don’t seem to make that much efforts into catching him. It’s funny how Hancock is always able to run away from them whenever he’s caught by the police. She knew he walked past him when she went to see Danny’s body, but she can’t tell it’s him at the funeral, even though he could have been seen as suspicious (and she obviously knew he could be attending the funeral) and she probably knew a little bit what he looked like.
Also, they didn’t think of tracking his phone earlier before Erika broke his phone?
2- They taped Gran’s phone. In one chapter, Grey says they are surveilling Gran’s residence. But then in the next chapter, Beth calls JP with Gran’s phone (and for some reason she had the new phone number he gave her added in her phone even though it could be unsafe) and then JP comes to Gran’s appartment without the police knowing. JP doesn’t change his SIM card afterwards, when the police could have retraced him or whatever is the reason why he had to change his SIM card before.
I don’t know anything about this kind of stuff, but if they taped Gran’s phone, wouldn’t they be aware of the phone calls she gives and not just the ones she receives? Also, JP told her that if she called she would have to call with another phone, so I guess he knew about that.
3- JP said that at his audition, he had a lot of competition. Why was he the one chosen for the identity theft if there was a bunch of other people? And what about the other audition staff? When JP talked about it, it seemed like there was more than just Max and Danny at the audition. How is it possible to hire that much people for a fake audition?
4- Coincidently, Max looks exactly like JP, which seems like a really weird coincidence and doesn’t really make sense (to me). It’s not really explained and JP just accepts it. He didn’t even ask himself questions or saw that he really looked like him when he first saw Max at the audition (if I’m not wrong, JP met Max at the fake audition?) It just seems to be there to make the ending somehow work.
There is a lot of coincidences in the book that don’t really seem to make sense.
I’m not gonna talk about every ‘plot holes’ there seemed to be (to me) because I think this is already enough and I don’t want this review to be too much.
Again, this is just my opinion but I feel like some stuff in the book didn’t make sense and wouldn’t be stuff that would happen in real life (like some of the police stuff) (but you’re the ones that did research about it so sorry if it sounds rude to say that). But again, this is fiction so I guess it’s supposed to be fine?
I’m sorry if some of the stuff I’m “complaining” about don’t matter or something like that but when I’m reading a book and something doesn’t seem right or factual, it just tickles me the whole time.
Again, this is just my opinion and there’s probably other people that say differently from what I’m saying.
I thought the small family references were cute like the Darth Vader bobble head and Kaylen Dillon as one of Erika’s fake identities.
I feel really bad giving three stars to your first book but it’s just me trying to be honest and I hope my review didn’t sound mean because it wasn’t my intention! Also, I was pretty mixed up and I didn’t know if I was gonna give four or three stars (again I’m sorry about the three stars).
I might be interested in reading one of your future books (if it’s not a part of a John Hancock series) and I wish you good luck with your future writing!
I don’t even know if y’all are gonna read the review so it’s pretty embarrassing if I send that super long review and you don’t end up reading it haha
First of all, the identity theft concept looked pretty promising and interesting at the beginning. It seemed like a pretty original concept. But the book wasn’t as good as I expected it to be.
I don’t think it could be seen as a thriller, it’s more like a mystery.
The story was pretty slow and sometimes I couldn’t really tell where it was going. There was some storylines that didn’t seem very necessary.
I’m not at all saying that I disliked the book or anything like that, but it was pretty hard for me to really get into it while reading it and be interested in the story. For me, a book that I’m into is a book that I enjoy reading, the reading of it is fluid. For Stealing John Hancock, I didn’t really enjoy it and my reading of it wasn’t fluid (except for a few chapters where I saw that I was kinda into it). I felt like I had to force myself to read it a little bit. Again, it doesn’t mean that I disliked it, but I just wasn’t able to enjoy it, which is one of the reasons why I gave it 3 stars.
The beginning of the book seemed promising and I really wanted to get into it but I just wasn’t able to. The story seemed to drag itself (I don’t know if it’s understandable and if ‘drag itself’ works in English? Sorry English isn’t my first language) and seemed slow so it was hard to get into it.
But the whole time I was reading I was wondering what was gonna be the twist to the story or what the end was gonna be so I guess that’s a good thing.
The end though was satisfying (even though it felt kind of forced and weird and there wasn’t any twists unless I’m mistaken) and seemed to hint to a sequel, which would be interesting.
Also, I liked that JP and Erika’s “relationship” was only hinted and not showed at the end of the book. Like, this way their “relationship” (sorry I can’t really remember the word I’m looking for but I know relationship doesn’t fit) doesn’t come out of nowhere or is being rushed into the story and it just came out as a surprise and it hints at a sequel and says it’s gonna be deepened in the sequel. I like that it hints at it being deepened in a sequel (if I’m not mistaken about this) rather than it being rushed and pushed into the story.
Hopefully, if there is a sequel, some stuff will be more explained and it will be more constructed as the first one. Unfortunately, I don’t think I will be reading the sequel if there is one. The first one already wasn’t really for me but I’m sure a lot of people will be interested in a sequel.
There’s also seem to be some plot holes. Sorry if I’m wrong at some places.
1- Grey is obsessed with catching Hancock but she and everyone else don’t seem to make that much efforts into catching him. It’s funny how Hancock is always able to run away from them whenever he’s caught by the police. She knew he walked past him when she went to see Danny’s body, but she can’t tell it’s him at the funeral, even though he could have been seen as suspicious (and she obviously knew he could be attending the funeral) and she probably knew a little bit what he looked like.
Also, they didn’t think of tracking his phone earlier before Erika broke his phone?
2- They taped Gran’s phone. In one chapter, Grey says they are surveilling Gran’s residence. But then in the next chapter, Beth calls JP with Gran’s phone (and for some reason she had the new phone number he gave her added in her phone even though it could be unsafe) and then JP comes to Gran’s appartment without the police knowing. JP doesn’t change his SIM card afterwards, when the police could have retraced him or whatever is the reason why he had to change his SIM card before.
I don’t know anything about this kind of stuff, but if they taped Gran’s phone, wouldn’t they be aware of the phone calls she gives and not just the ones she receives? Also, JP told her that if she called she would have to call with another phone, so I guess he knew about that.
3- JP said that at his audition, he had a lot of competition. Why was he the one chosen for the identity theft if there was a bunch of other people? And what about the other audition staff? When JP talked about it, it seemed like there was more than just Max and Danny at the audition. How is it possible to hire that much people for a fake audition?
4- Coincidently, Max looks exactly like JP, which seems like a really weird coincidence and doesn’t really make sense (to me). It’s not really explained and JP just accepts it. He didn’t even ask himself questions or saw that he really looked like him when he first saw Max at the audition (if I’m not wrong, JP met Max at the fake audition?) It just seems to be there to make the ending somehow work.
There is a lot of coincidences in the book that don’t really seem to make sense.
I’m not gonna talk about every ‘plot holes’ there seemed to be (to me) because I think this is already enough and I don’t want this review to be too much.
Again, this is just my opinion but I feel like some stuff in the book didn’t make sense and wouldn’t be stuff that would happen in real life (like some of the police stuff) (but you’re the ones that did research about it so sorry if it sounds rude to say that). But again, this is fiction so I guess it’s supposed to be fine?
I’m sorry if some of the stuff I’m “complaining” about don’t matter or something like that but when I’m reading a book and something doesn’t seem right or factual, it just tickles me the whole time.
Again, this is just my opinion and there’s probably other people that say differently from what I’m saying.
I thought the small family references were cute like the Darth Vader bobble head and Kaylen Dillon as one of Erika’s fake identities.
I feel really bad giving three stars to your first book but it’s just me trying to be honest and I hope my review didn’t sound mean because it wasn’t my intention! Also, I was pretty mixed up and I didn’t know if I was gonna give four or three stars (again I’m sorry about the three stars).
I might be interested in reading one of your future books (if it’s not a part of a John Hancock series) and I wish you good luck with your future writing!
I don’t even know if y’all are gonna read the review so it’s pretty embarrassing if I send that super long review and you don’t end up reading it haha
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2023
Loved this book!!! Got hooked on the detailed descriptions and by the suspense of the rich and unique plot.
September 17, 2023
3.5 stars
Set in Toronto and surrounding area, and inspired by true case of identity fraud, this story follows John “JP” Hancock as he finds himself in trouble when his identity has been stolen and used to swindle people in a multi-million dollar housing scheme. He connects with a hacker and work together to clear his name before the RCMP find him.
I had the pleasure of meeting the authors during Toronto Word on the Street this year, and they told me about their book which sounded right up my alley. The mother-daughter duo are screenwriters, and this being their first foray into writing a novel, I could really see how this would play out on the small screen as well.
I loved that it was set in the Toronto area (particularly Leslieville/Scarborough, and Port Perry), with so many familiar locations and descriptions. It really started off strong, when everything starts unravelling for JP. There are several narrators in this novel and I did find some POVs a bit more compelling than others. Other times it felt like random tangents that I questioned whether it would become relevant later on or not.
There could have been clearer development of some of the characters to explain the motivation on some of their actions. I guess if I’m equating it to a procedural TV drama, there has to be some semblance of suspending your disbelief at certain elements... While the writing was good, I felt maybe the editing could have been a bit more thorough? A number of times, there were the same descriptive words or phrases used twice in a row in consecutive sentences which seemed repetitive and unnecessary. At times, the story felt like it was reminding readers of things rather than trusting the reader has been following along and recognizes the significance.
That being said, this was an entertaining read that kept me flipping the pages to see how JP gets out of it. (I wanted to see more of the fallout at the end though!)
The Easter egg of a Darth Vader bobble head gave me a good appreciative chuckle.
Set in Toronto and surrounding area, and inspired by true case of identity fraud, this story follows John “JP” Hancock as he finds himself in trouble when his identity has been stolen and used to swindle people in a multi-million dollar housing scheme. He connects with a hacker and work together to clear his name before the RCMP find him.
I had the pleasure of meeting the authors during Toronto Word on the Street this year, and they told me about their book which sounded right up my alley. The mother-daughter duo are screenwriters, and this being their first foray into writing a novel, I could really see how this would play out on the small screen as well.
I loved that it was set in the Toronto area (particularly Leslieville/Scarborough, and Port Perry), with so many familiar locations and descriptions. It really started off strong, when everything starts unravelling for JP. There are several narrators in this novel and I did find some POVs a bit more compelling than others. Other times it felt like random tangents that I questioned whether it would become relevant later on or not.
There could have been clearer development of some of the characters to explain the motivation on some of their actions. I guess if I’m equating it to a procedural TV drama, there has to be some semblance of suspending your disbelief at certain elements... While the writing was good, I felt maybe the editing could have been a bit more thorough? A number of times, there were the same descriptive words or phrases used twice in a row in consecutive sentences which seemed repetitive and unnecessary. At times, the story felt like it was reminding readers of things rather than trusting the reader has been following along and recognizes the significance.
That being said, this was an entertaining read that kept me flipping the pages to see how JP gets out of it. (I wanted to see more of the fallout at the end though!)
The Easter egg of a Darth Vader bobble head gave me a good appreciative chuckle.
March 31, 2023
What would you do if you went to move into your newly purchased home only to find the house was never for sale in the first place? You’ve been scammed. Your money is gone, but you have no home to show for it. That is what happens to Cliff and his family. Thankfully, the police have discovered the man responsible, or so they think. John “JP” Hancock had his identity stolen and is now wanted for real estate fraud. Until he can somehow clear his name, he’s on the run.
Stealing John Hancock was unlike any thriller I’ve read before. It was incredibly unsettling because the scams and cyber crime happening within these pages are very real and possible occurrences. While the story builds slowly at first, the action really takes off during the second half of the novel. With explosions, gunfire, and a chase that leads throughout southern Ontario, I just had to know what would happen to JP and the innocent homebuyers caught up in the mix.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the presence of multiple strong, bad-ass female characters. From JP’s grandma, to Erika the hacker and Nya the RCMP investigator, each showed such confidence and strength. Nya’s story stood out to me most of all as she dealt with gender-based discrimination and harassment. Although I felt angry and frustrated on her behalf, I appreciated that the authors didn’t shy away from the realities of working in a male-dominated field. I would love to read another book from Nya’s perspective!
If you enjoy books about crime, and love to see them set in Canada, I’d definitely recommend checking this one out. I also think it would make a great movie!
A big thank you to Turnstone Press for sending me a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Stealing John Hancock was unlike any thriller I’ve read before. It was incredibly unsettling because the scams and cyber crime happening within these pages are very real and possible occurrences. While the story builds slowly at first, the action really takes off during the second half of the novel. With explosions, gunfire, and a chase that leads throughout southern Ontario, I just had to know what would happen to JP and the innocent homebuyers caught up in the mix.
One of my favourite parts of the book was the presence of multiple strong, bad-ass female characters. From JP’s grandma, to Erika the hacker and Nya the RCMP investigator, each showed such confidence and strength. Nya’s story stood out to me most of all as she dealt with gender-based discrimination and harassment. Although I felt angry and frustrated on her behalf, I appreciated that the authors didn’t shy away from the realities of working in a male-dominated field. I would love to read another book from Nya’s perspective!
If you enjoy books about crime, and love to see them set in Canada, I’d definitely recommend checking this one out. I also think it would make a great movie!
A big thank you to Turnstone Press for sending me a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2025
This novel opens with a family moving into their new home, the promise of a fresh start, but the house is not theirs and when the police tell them the real “homeowner” has asked them to leave the property, they realize they’ve been conned. A too good to be true sale has turned out to be just that.
.
When JP Hancock reads an ATM receipt and sees a $2million balance, he can’t believe his eyes. Moments later, the money’s gone and he has a bad feeling. When he approaches two police officers about a potential scam, he learns pretty quickly they think he is the con at the centre of a real estate scam.
When Detective Greg is assigned lead investigator of a real estate fraud case, she knows the men beneath her won’t be happy. With her wit and intelligence, she’ll have to find JP Hancock, but she better do it with a smile on her face or the men around her will accuse her of being a difficult bitch.
.
STEALING JOHN HANCOCK is a great, perfectly unravelling mystery, but it is also a story about truth. Not just the truth at the core of the story, but about the truths we hide; the ones that are easier to believe, and the ones that’ll set you free. A propulsive page turning perfectly plotted mystery that will make you, like me, excited for the novels ahead for H&A Christensen!!
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When JP Hancock reads an ATM receipt and sees a $2million balance, he can’t believe his eyes. Moments later, the money’s gone and he has a bad feeling. When he approaches two police officers about a potential scam, he learns pretty quickly they think he is the con at the centre of a real estate scam.
When Detective Greg is assigned lead investigator of a real estate fraud case, she knows the men beneath her won’t be happy. With her wit and intelligence, she’ll have to find JP Hancock, but she better do it with a smile on her face or the men around her will accuse her of being a difficult bitch.
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STEALING JOHN HANCOCK is a great, perfectly unravelling mystery, but it is also a story about truth. Not just the truth at the core of the story, but about the truths we hide; the ones that are easier to believe, and the ones that’ll set you free. A propulsive page turning perfectly plotted mystery that will make you, like me, excited for the novels ahead for H&A Christensen!!
November 6, 2023
H&A Christensen's debut novel "Stealing John Hancock" is a brilliantly written nail-biter. The characters and sets lift off the pages, and the details are so meticulously researched that the reader feels in on the action. The storyline is simultaneously logical and a thrill ride, keeping you guessing.
This is the first thriller I’ve read about identity theft, and I’m shocked at how incredible it is. Products from the technological revolution of the 2000s are no small feat to write about, and SJH somehow encapsulates them all in an engaging way. Erika is a powerful female lead; an asset to the “women in STEM” movement.
The separation of good and evil blurs while observing each character, and the symbolic twisting of fates reads like poetry.
Thank you, Hejsa and Alie, for researching the living daylights out of everything to leave "no stone unturned," and producing a masterpiece.
This is the first thriller I’ve read about identity theft, and I’m shocked at how incredible it is. Products from the technological revolution of the 2000s are no small feat to write about, and SJH somehow encapsulates them all in an engaging way. Erika is a powerful female lead; an asset to the “women in STEM” movement.
The separation of good and evil blurs while observing each character, and the symbolic twisting of fates reads like poetry.
Thank you, Hejsa and Alie, for researching the living daylights out of everything to leave "no stone unturned," and producing a masterpiece.
January 10, 2026
I ABSOLUTE loved this book.
What made the experience even more interesting for me is how closely the story connects with my professional background. The book touches on crimes such as identity theft, stolen FOP, clear signs of money laundering and the strategic use of real estate to facilitate and conceal criminal activity. These elements felt very familiar to me and added a strong sense of realism, as they reflect patterns I deal with in my own field.
Overall, Stealing John Hancock is a well-paced, intelligent thriller that balances suspense with substance. It does not rely solely on shock value, but on atmosphere, psychology and credibility, which made it a very satisfying read for me.
What made the experience even more interesting for me is how closely the story connects with my professional background. The book touches on crimes such as identity theft, stolen FOP, clear signs of money laundering and the strategic use of real estate to facilitate and conceal criminal activity. These elements felt very familiar to me and added a strong sense of realism, as they reflect patterns I deal with in my own field.
Overall, Stealing John Hancock is a well-paced, intelligent thriller that balances suspense with substance. It does not rely solely on shock value, but on atmosphere, psychology and credibility, which made it a very satisfying read for me.
April 10, 2023
A thrilling page-turner with just the right amount of levity, SJH drops us into the seedy world of identity theft, real estate fraud, and the dark web. What constitutes an identity and how far will someone go to hang-on to what they feel defines them? To what avail? At what cost? This book asks some pretty relevant questions without ever downshifting the pace or veering away from the main action. Full of memorable characters, desperate choices, and shady motivations.
A really fun & smart crime novel.
4/5
A really fun & smart crime novel.
4/5
April 10, 2024
I’ve been wanting to read this since it was released, and I’m so glad I was able to get my hands on a copy while I was in Toronto recently.
SJH is a real page-turner. I love the way this book pulls the reader along, allowing you to learn what’s happening at the same time as the main character. It does a great job of putting you inside his head while also showing the perspectives of other characters.
I loved the little Easter eggs/nods to your family!
Looking forward to what you write next! Congratulations on an excellent first book, Alie and Hejsa!
SJH is a real page-turner. I love the way this book pulls the reader along, allowing you to learn what’s happening at the same time as the main character. It does a great job of putting you inside his head while also showing the perspectives of other characters.
I loved the little Easter eggs/nods to your family!
Looking forward to what you write next! Congratulations on an excellent first book, Alie and Hejsa!
September 18, 2022
This was a good book. I’m not sure I would consider it a thriller, but definitely a mystery that keeps you wondering what was going to happen next. There were a handful of characters to keep track of, and a few side stories I didn’t see as necessary. I thought the side stories would come together a bit more than they did. I can absolutely see sequels coming with how the book ended, or spin-off books for each character. Generally a good read.
December 12, 2022
The premise sounded interesting ... someone has stolen JP's identity and rather than run, he wants to find out what's going out.
I wanted to like this book, especially because it's set in Toronto, but I got bored and lost interest in the writing and the story and gave up about halfway through.
I wanted to like this book, especially because it's set in Toronto, but I got bored and lost interest in the writing and the story and gave up about halfway through.
February 2, 2023
Fast paced and plausible storyline given the recent news of real estate fraud. Strong descriptions of settings evoking visualizations of locales. I expect a sequel.
May 30, 2023
This is the real deal of an action-thriller, a gripping combination of mystery, intrigue and suspense. Though not typically a genre I read, I enjoyed this novel tremendously!
November 30, 2023
Loved the local-ness of this book. Many of the characters were interesting and some even irritating! LOL
January 18, 2026
An exhilarating novel that leaves you wanting more! I carried this book around with me as often as I could, nose buried in it, couldn't put it down. I hope there's a sequel!
March 23, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It was mysterious, thrilling and kept me wanting to read more!
I loved that so many local Canadian settings were used. I felt beaming pride every time Port Perry was mentioned.
I liked that the narrative was told using different voices and perspectives. It really helped shape the storyline and allowed the reader to get to know the various characters better.
I wanted to see more about JP and Erika's relationship at the end but maybe there will be a second book?
I also wanted to see Grey follow-up on the sexual assault and take further action. I suppose it shows the reality and difficulty of dealing with sexual assault especially in a male dominated field.
I enjoyed this book and looking forward to more from this Canadian duo.
I loved that so many local Canadian settings were used. I felt beaming pride every time Port Perry was mentioned.
I liked that the narrative was told using different voices and perspectives. It really helped shape the storyline and allowed the reader to get to know the various characters better.
I wanted to see more about JP and Erika's relationship at the end but maybe there will be a second book?
I also wanted to see Grey follow-up on the sexual assault and take further action. I suppose it shows the reality and difficulty of dealing with sexual assault especially in a male dominated field.
I enjoyed this book and looking forward to more from this Canadian duo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2024
Great book! The suspense is captivating!
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