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The Fighting Detective #4
Shot to the Heart
A missing daughter
A desperate father
A kidnapper with no identity
After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight.
The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies.
With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.
Shot to the Heart is the fourth action-packed book in the Fighting Detective Series from popular crime author Blair Denholm – guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.
If you’re a fan of fast-paced thrillers by American crime legends James Patterson, David Baldacci and Michael Connelly, or British doyens of police procedurals Ian Rankin, Peter James and Val McDermid, the Fighting Detective series will keep you reading into the night.
A desperate father
A kidnapper with no identity
After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight.
The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies.
With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.
Shot to the Heart is the fourth action-packed book in the Fighting Detective Series from popular crime author Blair Denholm – guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.
If you’re a fan of fast-paced thrillers by American crime legends James Patterson, David Baldacci and Michael Connelly, or British doyens of police procedurals Ian Rankin, Peter James and Val McDermid, the Fighting Detective series will keep you reading into the night.
- GenresThriller
194 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2022
About the author
Blair Denholm
26 books231 followersBLAIR DENHOLM is a born-and-bred Australian crime fiction writer whose previous jobs have been as varied as translator, debt collector, technology researcher, banking and insurance consultant, and even car-wash attendant. Over the years he has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi and Australia. His life-long love of sports is reflected in the plots of the Fighting Detective series.
Denholm's flagship series, The Fighting Detective, stars ex-boxer Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon and is set in the steamy tropics of North Queensland, Australia. The series features heavy doses of noir crime with a vigilante justice twist. So far there are eight novels and two prequel novellas in the series, with more in the pipeline.
In 2026, Denholm will independently release a spin-off series featuring Jack's daughter as a private investigator working cases out of Brisbane. Skye Lisbon Investigates promises to be a series with wide appeal.
Denholm's debut novel, SOLD, is the first in a noir trilogy featuring the detestable yet lovable one-man wrecking ball Gary Braswell. The book was long-listed for movie adaptation by Screen Queensland in 2019. The other books in this series are Sold to the Devil and Sold Dirt Cheap.
Denholm has also written two thriller novels set in Russia. Captain Viktor Voloshin is a hard-boiled investigator who has to fight the establishment in order for justice to be served in his own special way. The first in this series, Revolution Day, was published in 2021, with the follow-up, The Defector, released in 2024. One more book will round off this series.
In 2024, Denholm signed on with UK-based publisher Vinci Books.
Blair Denholm grew up in suburban Brisbane, Queensland. After two lengthy stints in Tasmania, he now resides in the Southern Downs region of Queensland with his partner, Sandra, and faithful dog, Bruno.
Denholm's flagship series, The Fighting Detective, stars ex-boxer Detective Sergeant Jack Lisbon and is set in the steamy tropics of North Queensland, Australia. The series features heavy doses of noir crime with a vigilante justice twist. So far there are eight novels and two prequel novellas in the series, with more in the pipeline.
In 2026, Denholm will independently release a spin-off series featuring Jack's daughter as a private investigator working cases out of Brisbane. Skye Lisbon Investigates promises to be a series with wide appeal.
Denholm's debut novel, SOLD, is the first in a noir trilogy featuring the detestable yet lovable one-man wrecking ball Gary Braswell. The book was long-listed for movie adaptation by Screen Queensland in 2019. The other books in this series are Sold to the Devil and Sold Dirt Cheap.
Denholm has also written two thriller novels set in Russia. Captain Viktor Voloshin is a hard-boiled investigator who has to fight the establishment in order for justice to be served in his own special way. The first in this series, Revolution Day, was published in 2021, with the follow-up, The Defector, released in 2024. One more book will round off this series.
In 2024, Denholm signed on with UK-based publisher Vinci Books.
Blair Denholm grew up in suburban Brisbane, Queensland. After two lengthy stints in Tasmania, he now resides in the Southern Downs region of Queensland with his partner, Sandra, and faithful dog, Bruno.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 3, 2022
Shot to the Heart is the latest instalment in the Jack Lisbon series. Jack is back in London spending time with his daughter Skye, but his past is creeping up on him. When Skye is kidnapped, Jack has to race against the clock to try and get her back.
I have been enjoying this series for a long time but this one is my favourite so far. I think the charm in these books really comes from Jack as a character. He’s grown so much since the beginning of the series. I really like and respect the man he is becoming and I love to see his growth. I adored his connection with Skye, it added a soft side to Jack’s character that isn’t seen much. I also get all jittery every time Jack and Claudia talk! Can’t they just confess their feelings already?!
I found myself racing through this, the pace is constant and exciting. Although nothing particularly surprised me, I found myself enjoying the ride I was on. I feel this is the kind of book that you appreciate more when you’ve followed the entire series. It would work as a standalone but I don’t think you’d get the same connection to the characters. At this point I feel so connected to Jack, I feel like he’s an old friend of mine. I loved getting to know Skye, she has so much love for Jack. I’m a huge fan of a strong female character and despite Skye only being young she showed a grit and determination that I adored! This book made me think about how far people will go for the ones they love most. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good detective mystery novel! Especially if you like supporting indie authors! I want to thank Blair Denholm for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts.
I have been enjoying this series for a long time but this one is my favourite so far. I think the charm in these books really comes from Jack as a character. He’s grown so much since the beginning of the series. I really like and respect the man he is becoming and I love to see his growth. I adored his connection with Skye, it added a soft side to Jack’s character that isn’t seen much. I also get all jittery every time Jack and Claudia talk! Can’t they just confess their feelings already?!
I found myself racing through this, the pace is constant and exciting. Although nothing particularly surprised me, I found myself enjoying the ride I was on. I feel this is the kind of book that you appreciate more when you’ve followed the entire series. It would work as a standalone but I don’t think you’d get the same connection to the characters. At this point I feel so connected to Jack, I feel like he’s an old friend of mine. I loved getting to know Skye, she has so much love for Jack. I’m a huge fan of a strong female character and despite Skye only being young she showed a grit and determination that I adored! This book made me think about how far people will go for the ones they love most. I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a good detective mystery novel! Especially if you like supporting indie authors! I want to thank Blair Denholm for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts.
April 15, 2022
First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Blair Denholm for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having binge-read the DS Jack Lisbon series, I have finally reached the ARC that Blair Denholm requested I review. Things have been a whirlwind, allowing me to discover a little more about DS Lisbon, both as a police officer in Australia and the sordid past he left behind in the United Kingdom. Finally able to visit his daughter in the UK, Lisbon arrives and sets out on quite the adventure with Skye. When she is kidnapped in plain sight, Lisbon is distraught, but knows that he must be very careful. It’s likely that some of those he upset before fleeing to Australia have planned this and seek long-awaited retribution. Lisbon will have to work off the books, including getting some assistance from a colleague Down Under, in order to bring Skye back safely. Denholm does really well to add new layers to the series, exciting readers who have been waiting for a novel like this.
After many years away from his daughter, DS Jack Lisbon has finally returned to the United Kingdom. While his ex-wife is leery, she allows them out for a few days together. While in a park, Skye is kidnapped in plain sight and this leads Lisbon to panic. His sordid past has likely come back to haunt him, when he was suspected of killing a prominent member of the boxing community. Could this crime have been planned for years, simply awaiting Lisbon’s return?
Told not to contact the authorities, Lisbon is left with few options, but refuses to stand idly by. He reaches out to a few of his contacts from before he left the country to help him locate Skye quickly. With a ransom demand and a time limit, Lisbon will have to follow all the rules, while panicking on the inside. A few clues help get the ball rolling, but Lisbon will be some trusted assistance from a colleague back in Australia, well off the radar of the kidnappers.
Inching closer to a likely location for Skye, Lisbon and his ragtag team begin to formulate a plan, but have little guarantee that it will work. Skye’s life likely hangs in the balance, as these criminals have no morals and are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they need. Lisbon makes his move, fuelled by the love of a father, in hopes that it will be all that Skye needs to be returned to him safely. Denholm ups the ante once again and makes this the best novel in the series to date.
Blair Denholm has done a great deal with this series in short order. While I was not sure what to expect when I started the books a few days ago, I have seen a great deal of progress with the series and DS Jack Lisbon, specifically. Strong writing and great plot lines have helped create a captivating collection of novels sure to attract the attention of the curious reader who enjoys quick police procedurals.
DS Jack Lisbon has come full circle in this series. Those who have followed the novels from the start will know that Lisbon fled the UK under tense circumstances, but little has been fully hashed out about it, save some mention in a prequel novella. Now, Lisbon is back and able to spend time with his daughter, Skye, who has always been simply a passing reference in other books. Seeing a more personal side to his character, Lisbon exemplifies the love a father has for his child, stopping at nothing to bring balance once again. Denholm has built things up well and this novel was just what the series needed to add new depth to a tense collection.
Blair Denholm has mastered the art of storytelling and uses this series to catapult DS Jack Lisbon into a new realm. With a strong narrative that pushes forward, while using personal angst to flavour the writing, the story gains momentum as the hunt for a missing girl reaches new heights. Great characters leave the reader wanting more, while also complementing the protagonist throughout this piece. I have waited for this plot line, ever since early mention of Skye Lisbon appeared in the first novel. The inevitable heartache Lisbon feels with the kidnapping of his daughter is matched by the tension between the copper and those seeking to destroy him. Denholm impresses yet again and leaves the reader wanting even more. I can only hope DS Lisbon will be back soon for more suspenseful investigating.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for adding new tensions to a great series. Thank you for having me read this series, which I devoured in short order.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Having binge-read the DS Jack Lisbon series, I have finally reached the ARC that Blair Denholm requested I review. Things have been a whirlwind, allowing me to discover a little more about DS Lisbon, both as a police officer in Australia and the sordid past he left behind in the United Kingdom. Finally able to visit his daughter in the UK, Lisbon arrives and sets out on quite the adventure with Skye. When she is kidnapped in plain sight, Lisbon is distraught, but knows that he must be very careful. It’s likely that some of those he upset before fleeing to Australia have planned this and seek long-awaited retribution. Lisbon will have to work off the books, including getting some assistance from a colleague Down Under, in order to bring Skye back safely. Denholm does really well to add new layers to the series, exciting readers who have been waiting for a novel like this.
After many years away from his daughter, DS Jack Lisbon has finally returned to the United Kingdom. While his ex-wife is leery, she allows them out for a few days together. While in a park, Skye is kidnapped in plain sight and this leads Lisbon to panic. His sordid past has likely come back to haunt him, when he was suspected of killing a prominent member of the boxing community. Could this crime have been planned for years, simply awaiting Lisbon’s return?
Told not to contact the authorities, Lisbon is left with few options, but refuses to stand idly by. He reaches out to a few of his contacts from before he left the country to help him locate Skye quickly. With a ransom demand and a time limit, Lisbon will have to follow all the rules, while panicking on the inside. A few clues help get the ball rolling, but Lisbon will be some trusted assistance from a colleague back in Australia, well off the radar of the kidnappers.
Inching closer to a likely location for Skye, Lisbon and his ragtag team begin to formulate a plan, but have little guarantee that it will work. Skye’s life likely hangs in the balance, as these criminals have no morals and are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they need. Lisbon makes his move, fuelled by the love of a father, in hopes that it will be all that Skye needs to be returned to him safely. Denholm ups the ante once again and makes this the best novel in the series to date.
Blair Denholm has done a great deal with this series in short order. While I was not sure what to expect when I started the books a few days ago, I have seen a great deal of progress with the series and DS Jack Lisbon, specifically. Strong writing and great plot lines have helped create a captivating collection of novels sure to attract the attention of the curious reader who enjoys quick police procedurals.
DS Jack Lisbon has come full circle in this series. Those who have followed the novels from the start will know that Lisbon fled the UK under tense circumstances, but little has been fully hashed out about it, save some mention in a prequel novella. Now, Lisbon is back and able to spend time with his daughter, Skye, who has always been simply a passing reference in other books. Seeing a more personal side to his character, Lisbon exemplifies the love a father has for his child, stopping at nothing to bring balance once again. Denholm has built things up well and this novel was just what the series needed to add new depth to a tense collection.
Blair Denholm has mastered the art of storytelling and uses this series to catapult DS Jack Lisbon into a new realm. With a strong narrative that pushes forward, while using personal angst to flavour the writing, the story gains momentum as the hunt for a missing girl reaches new heights. Great characters leave the reader wanting more, while also complementing the protagonist throughout this piece. I have waited for this plot line, ever since early mention of Skye Lisbon appeared in the first novel. The inevitable heartache Lisbon feels with the kidnapping of his daughter is matched by the tension between the copper and those seeking to destroy him. Denholm impresses yet again and leaves the reader wanting even more. I can only hope DS Lisbon will be back soon for more suspenseful investigating.
Kudos, Mr. Denholm, for adding new tensions to a great series. Thank you for having me read this series, which I devoured in short order.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 17, 2022
Wow, what a great story. Blair Denholm has done a fabulous job with this book, with his attention to detail, and an intriguing storyline. You can’t help but love his main character, Jack Lisbon. He’s a tough no nonsense cop, with a background in boxing. Deep down he’s got a heart of gold and he’s always trying to do right by people. I’m so glad the author has taken us back to Jack’s old stomping ground in England. It’s great to see where he came from, and spend a bit of time with his daughter. Unfortunately for Jack his visit hasn’t gone to plan, and now he has to find his daughter. Jack knew he probably had some enemies, however he wasn’t expecting this.
Without doubt, this is a very enjoyable book, and I would certainly recommend it. 5/5 Star Rating
Without doubt, this is a very enjoyable book, and I would certainly recommend it. 5/5 Star Rating
February 16, 2026
5 ⭐️s
Shot to the Heart is the riveting 4th instalment in the Jack Lisbon series.
Jack has returned to London to catch up with his daughter, Skye, though he can't quite escape his previous life.
A kidnapping
An Ice-cream cart
An Unknown abductor
Jack recruits former partners for a desperate, frantic search for his daughter.
An intense emotional rollercoaster of a journey, just magnificent.
Shot to the Heart is the riveting 4th instalment in the Jack Lisbon series.
Jack has returned to London to catch up with his daughter, Skye, though he can't quite escape his previous life.
A kidnapping
An Ice-cream cart
An Unknown abductor
Jack recruits former partners for a desperate, frantic search for his daughter.
An intense emotional rollercoaster of a journey, just magnificent.
January 5, 2024
Former London detective returns to see daughter only to have her kidnapped - 4.5 stars
Jack Lisbon returns to London to visit his daughter Skye. Jack's ex-wife, Sarah doesn't want Jack to have any interactions with their daughter, Skye, who is now ten years old. Jack has arranged for a day with Skye and takes her to his old haunts. Enjoying an ice cream in a nearby park, Jack responds to a woman's call for help, leaving Skye briefly. It was a set-up; Skye was abducted. The kidnappers demanded a ransom to be paid in Bitcoins in a little more than three days.
From that point forward, Jack who is now a respected policeman in Australia, is adamant not to let the police intervene for fear that Skye will be killed. Jack makes arrangements with his most trusted friends from when he was a London cop and starts thinking like a cop, identifying likely suspects and trying to find a way to come up with the ransom.
Skye idolizes her dad who has earned admiration at home and abroad for some spectacularly successful police work. Jack's approaches have been unconventional but, after resettling in Australia, on the up and up. Jack's conduct in London had been less than honorable partially due to his views that certain types of criminals had no rights. Additionally, Jack had a drinking problem back then but has been alcohol-free for several years.
As the case unfolded, some of the more likely suspects were eliminated and a few additional suspects were added. Favors were called in. Preparations for supplying bitcoin and shaking the trees to figure out who took his daughter got him running on adrenaline but little sleep.
Old-fashioned beat police investigation in addition to some fast driving that was breaking rules leads to a plan. A plan reluctantly involving the police was developed as time was running out. More adventure followed with a few more rules being broken.
Dealing with the aftermath had even more drama which was worthy of reading just to see how complex people can be. There are at least two more books in the series which I intend to read soon. I encourage others to read this series as well.
Jack Lisbon returns to London to visit his daughter Skye. Jack's ex-wife, Sarah doesn't want Jack to have any interactions with their daughter, Skye, who is now ten years old. Jack has arranged for a day with Skye and takes her to his old haunts. Enjoying an ice cream in a nearby park, Jack responds to a woman's call for help, leaving Skye briefly. It was a set-up; Skye was abducted. The kidnappers demanded a ransom to be paid in Bitcoins in a little more than three days.
From that point forward, Jack who is now a respected policeman in Australia, is adamant not to let the police intervene for fear that Skye will be killed. Jack makes arrangements with his most trusted friends from when he was a London cop and starts thinking like a cop, identifying likely suspects and trying to find a way to come up with the ransom.
Skye idolizes her dad who has earned admiration at home and abroad for some spectacularly successful police work. Jack's approaches have been unconventional but, after resettling in Australia, on the up and up. Jack's conduct in London had been less than honorable partially due to his views that certain types of criminals had no rights. Additionally, Jack had a drinking problem back then but has been alcohol-free for several years.
As the case unfolded, some of the more likely suspects were eliminated and a few additional suspects were added. Favors were called in. Preparations for supplying bitcoin and shaking the trees to figure out who took his daughter got him running on adrenaline but little sleep.
Old-fashioned beat police investigation in addition to some fast driving that was breaking rules leads to a plan. A plan reluctantly involving the police was developed as time was running out. More adventure followed with a few more rules being broken.
Dealing with the aftermath had even more drama which was worthy of reading just to see how complex people can be. There are at least two more books in the series which I intend to read soon. I encourage others to read this series as well.
April 15, 2022
Blair Denholm brings us more action and crime with the latest from his popular detective series Shot to the Heart, and this time it’s personal! Detective Jack Lisbon flies back to London to see his daughter. But when his daughter is abducted, Jack must assemble a group of ragtag fighters to get her back. I’ve really enjoyed the whole Jack Lisbon series, but this one is my favorite yet! I enjoyed the personal nature of this one with Jack having to defend his family, and it was a really tense and tightly wrapped thriller as Jack and his team worked through the list of unscrupulous characters in order to get the girl back. If you love your detectives tough and your crime thrillers actiony, definitely come take a Shot to the Heart!
March 5, 2024
I completed a binge read of the first seven books in the series plus the two prequels. Excellent storylines, great characters and settings. Strongly recommended for anyone who enjoys a police procedural with a difference.
March 16, 2022
‘Is this more about your pride and exacting revenge?’ – A new challenge for Jack Lisbon
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published nine books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, KILL SHOT, SHOT CLOCK, TRICK SHOT, REVOLUTION DAY, and now SHOT TO THE HEART. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! SHOT TO THE HEEART is the fourth installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who has become a terrific character to follow.
In his familiar style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a moment of Jack Lisbon’s history: ‘McNair’s Coxing Club lay in wait at the end of the alley like a vengeful enemy. It was the club where Jack Lisbon trained and fought as a young man. It still bore the name of its original owner and founder, Angus McNair, a light heavyweight who abandoned the tough shipyards of Glasgow to pursue a boxing career in London. The tale of the rise and fall of Angus McNair was the stuff of urban folklore. Jack had heard the story a hundred times with different endings, depending on who was telling it. Some elements were undeniable truths. Others were shrouded in speculation...’ From there Blair proceeds to unravel this excellent thriller, prepared for the crime that drives the story.
The story follows as summarized: ‘After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight. The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies. With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, SHOT TO THE HEART has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative character to follow.
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published nine books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, KILL SHOT, SHOT CLOCK, TRICK SHOT, REVOLUTION DAY, and now SHOT TO THE HEART. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! SHOT TO THE HEEART is the fourth installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who has become a terrific character to follow.
In his familiar style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a moment of Jack Lisbon’s history: ‘McNair’s Coxing Club lay in wait at the end of the alley like a vengeful enemy. It was the club where Jack Lisbon trained and fought as a young man. It still bore the name of its original owner and founder, Angus McNair, a light heavyweight who abandoned the tough shipyards of Glasgow to pursue a boxing career in London. The tale of the rise and fall of Angus McNair was the stuff of urban folklore. Jack had heard the story a hundred times with different endings, depending on who was telling it. Some elements were undeniable truths. Others were shrouded in speculation...’ From there Blair proceeds to unravel this excellent thriller, prepared for the crime that drives the story.
The story follows as summarized: ‘After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight. The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies. With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, SHOT TO THE HEART has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative character to follow.
April 1, 2022
‘Is this more about your pride and exacting revenge?’ – A new challenge for Jack Lisbon
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published nine books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, KILL SHOT, SHOT CLOCK, TRICK SHOT, REVOLUTION DAY, and now SHOT TO THE HEART. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! SHOT TO THE HEEART is the fourth installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who has become a terrific character to follow.
In his familiar style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a moment of Jack Lisbon’s history: ‘McNair’s Coxing Club lay in wait at the end of the alley like a vengeful enemy. It was the club where Jack Lisbon trained and fought as a young man. It still bore the name of its original owner and founder, Angus McNair, a light heavyweight who abandoned the tough shipyards of Glasgow to pursue a boxing career in London. The tale of the rise and fall of Angus McNair was the stuff of urban folklore. Jack had heard the story a hundred times with different endings, depending on who was telling it. Some elements were undeniable truths. Others were shrouded in speculation...’ From there Blair proceeds to unravel this excellent thriller, prepared for the crime that drives the story.
The story follows as summarized: ‘After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight. The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies. With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, SHOT TO THE HEART has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative character to follow.
Australian author Blair Denholm lives in Tasmania at present, but has lived and worked in New York, Moscow, Munich, Abu Dhabi in addition to Australia. He has published nine books – ESCAPE FROM PASSING WINDS, SOLD, SOLD TO THE DEVIL, FIGHTING DIRTY, KILL SHOT, SHOT CLOCK, TRICK SHOT, REVOLUTION DAY, and now SHOT TO THE HEART. Blair is also a translator, speaks fluent Russian (he interpreted for the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Moscow and translated for the Sochi Winter Olympics Organizing Committee) as well as a traveler and has escaped situations and detainments in life much as he writes in his books! SHOT TO THE HEEART is the fourth installment in his series – the Jack Lisbon The Fighting Detective Crime Thriller – centered on a tough, cynical, ex-boxer London cop, who has become a terrific character to follow.
In his familiar style of raising the curtain on an atmospheric new story, Blair opens with a moment of Jack Lisbon’s history: ‘McNair’s Coxing Club lay in wait at the end of the alley like a vengeful enemy. It was the club where Jack Lisbon trained and fought as a young man. It still bore the name of its original owner and founder, Angus McNair, a light heavyweight who abandoned the tough shipyards of Glasgow to pursue a boxing career in London. The tale of the rise and fall of Angus McNair was the stuff of urban folklore. Jack had heard the story a hundred times with different endings, depending on who was telling it. Some elements were undeniable truths. Others were shrouded in speculation...’ From there Blair proceeds to unravel this excellent thriller, prepared for the crime that drives the story.
The story follows as summarized: ‘After a five-year absence from his South London patch, former boxer and Metropolitan Police detective Jack Lisbon flies back from Australia to be reunited with his daughter. Just three days into his holiday, the child is snatched from her father’s side in broad daylight. The message from the kidnapper is clear – if Jack alerts the police or fails to pay the ransom, the girl dies. With the clock ticking, Lisbon assembles a ragtag team of amateur fighters and ex-colleagues in a desperate effort to find the kidnappers. Checking off a long list of suspects, they must race across the length and breadth of England and Scotland before it’s too late.’
Aside from being solid entertainment, SHOT TO THE HEART has some philosophical asides that focus on many of our current obsessions. Blair keeps us guessing (as reading detectives) while he places the spotlight on the fascinating Jack Lisbon. Blair Denholm has now fully created a superlative character to follow.
March 20, 2022
Shot to the Heart is the latest novel by one my most favorite authors Blair Denholm. It's an action-packed, page-turning that features dark secrets, plot twists and compelling characters is an incredible book. Blair Denholm is perhaps one of the most gifted story tellers that I have had the opportunity to read. He is able to weave a story like an artist, weaves a tapestry. Each intricate line is carefully gathered and stitched into the story. As the pattern develops you begin to see the design, but he leaves a few strings unpulled as he goes, but he hints at what the picture on the tapestry will be. As a reader you are sure you know what that pattern will be but then Denholm adds a new thread and you know the picture you had formed was wrong. By the end of the novel Mr Denholm has pulled all the threads together and you as the reader will know how the story was developed. I have to tell you that I was absolutely captivated. This book drew me in from the very first page and I admit I had a very difficult time putting it down. I can not recommend a book and author more highly. I intend to read more novels by this author, I received this novel from BookFunnel. This is my true and honest review.
October 19, 2023
Great read! I’ve been reading the Jack Lisbon series since the first book and this one is my favourite so far!
Jack finally gets a chance to go back to the UK and the only thing he wants to do is spend time with his daughter, Skye. He happily revolves his vacation around her but only days in, she’s kidnapped, snatched from right under his nose in the middle of the day. What follows is his desperate race to save his little girl before the kidnappers do something unthinkable. And, he has to do it all without incurring the wrath of her mother.
Love, love, love this series. There’s just something about Jack Lisbon that always pulls me into the story. He’s (usually) cranky, a hard-ass and generally unlikeable, but I adore him. Deep down, he’s a good man and more than anything, wants to correct the mistakes he’s made in the past. Shot to the Heart was a fantastic addition to the series and I am looking forward to what comes next! Thank you Blair Denholm for my ARC copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jack finally gets a chance to go back to the UK and the only thing he wants to do is spend time with his daughter, Skye. He happily revolves his vacation around her but only days in, she’s kidnapped, snatched from right under his nose in the middle of the day. What follows is his desperate race to save his little girl before the kidnappers do something unthinkable. And, he has to do it all without incurring the wrath of her mother.
Love, love, love this series. There’s just something about Jack Lisbon that always pulls me into the story. He’s (usually) cranky, a hard-ass and generally unlikeable, but I adore him. Deep down, he’s a good man and more than anything, wants to correct the mistakes he’s made in the past. Shot to the Heart was a fantastic addition to the series and I am looking forward to what comes next! Thank you Blair Denholm for my ARC copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2022
This episode brings Jack Lisbon back to visit his home to England after living in Australia for five years. He gets to spend a few glorious days with his beloved daughter, but an enemy from his past kidnaps the girl, holding her for ransom. Jack must call on old friends to help him thwart the crook and save his daughter. The tension builds steadily as the deadline approaches in this well-written story.
Mr. Denholm has created a hero who is easy root for: basically, a good cop with a checkered past, but one who cares deeply about his job and has his own thoughts about how to achieve justice. The story pulled me in at once and kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out the solution, but not able to do so until the end. This is a great stand-alone book, but I intend to go back and read the other books to fully understand just how Jack came to be who he is now.
Mr. Denholm has created a hero who is easy root for: basically, a good cop with a checkered past, but one who cares deeply about his job and has his own thoughts about how to achieve justice. The story pulled me in at once and kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to figure out the solution, but not able to do so until the end. This is a great stand-alone book, but I intend to go back and read the other books to fully understand just how Jack came to be who he is now.
June 22, 2022
Shot to the Heart is book number four of the Fighting Detective Series. This book had my full attention from the get-go. Without stepping into the spoiler zone, the stakes in this book are incredibly high as Jack's past catches up with him. Blair is a great storyteller and presents a good mix of action, suspense and heartfelt moments. Jack Lisbon is continuously growing on me with every successive book. He's one character who's complex; the status of his past is severely complicated, which puts him in a morally grey zone. But in all of this, this character is an exceptional cop with a bullseye instinct. The ending was excellent as this book keeps you on edge, compelling every possible solution to the bind Jack needs to unearth. I can't wait for the next one!
This honest review is left voluntarily. A big thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
This honest review is left voluntarily. A big thank you to the author for providing an ARC.
March 17, 2022
Detective Jack Lisbon is back in England for a long-awaited holiday with his daughter. While they’re enjoying an ice-cream in the park, a loud ruckus lures Jack away, and in the blink of an eye Skye is abducted.
In a desperate race against time, Jack teams up with old friends and ex-colleagues to find the kidnappers and save his daughter.
Shot to the Heart is the best book in this series so far. Confronted with his worst nightmare, Jack’s quick temper gets the better of him, and his short fuse becomes scary, destructive and uncontrollable. The operation turns into a roller-coaster ride, pack-jammed with emotional highs and lows. A real page-turner!
In a desperate race against time, Jack teams up with old friends and ex-colleagues to find the kidnappers and save his daughter.
Shot to the Heart is the best book in this series so far. Confronted with his worst nightmare, Jack’s quick temper gets the better of him, and his short fuse becomes scary, destructive and uncontrollable. The operation turns into a roller-coaster ride, pack-jammed with emotional highs and lows. A real page-turner!
March 22, 2022
This is my favourite Jack Lisbon book so far. Whether it's because it's set in the UK, or because it showed a different slightly softer side to Jack I'm not sure, but something about this one really grabbed my attention.
As with all of Blair's books, the pacing is great, and all the characters add something to the story. There are never any also-rans in his books.
If you have yet to read any of the Jack Lisbon books I would highly recommend them Although this is the latest in a series, and there are plenty of references back to earlier stories, I feel it would work well as a stand alone, or an introduction to the character. Be warned though once you've read one you'll be back for more.
As with all of Blair's books, the pacing is great, and all the characters add something to the story. There are never any also-rans in his books.
If you have yet to read any of the Jack Lisbon books I would highly recommend them Although this is the latest in a series, and there are plenty of references back to earlier stories, I feel it would work well as a stand alone, or an introduction to the character. Be warned though once you've read one you'll be back for more.
April 12, 2022
This was another exciting book that I had received from the author in return for a review and for an opportunity to edit this exciting sequel.
This book starts with the protagonist traveling back to England to spend time with his daughter, and while out with his daughter she is kidnapped by one of his enemies from his past. The story concludes with partnering with the British version of the SWAT.
This was another exciting chapter in the continuing saga of the fighting cop. After reading a few of these books, I would easily rate this book a solid four stars out of five for staying true to the character.
As far as reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
This book starts with the protagonist traveling back to England to spend time with his daughter, and while out with his daughter she is kidnapped by one of his enemies from his past. The story concludes with partnering with the British version of the SWAT.
This was another exciting chapter in the continuing saga of the fighting cop. After reading a few of these books, I would easily rate this book a solid four stars out of five for staying true to the character.
As far as reviews, this is just my five cents worth.
March 20, 2022
I received an ARC from the author and I loved it. I think this may be the best Jack Lisbon book yet. Jack is an intriguing character who seems to grow with each book. In "Shot to the Heart", he has to fight hard to get back his daughter. Amazing story that pulled me in right from the start. I never wanted to put the book down. Can't wait for Jack's next story.
March 21, 2022
Blighty good read!
Jack is back in the UK to visit his daughter, what could go wrong...
Good story that delves into Jack's past and the reason he fled to Oz. Complications begin when someone wants revenge and used a person close to Jack to achieve it. How will Jack react and can their plan be foiled?
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Jack is back in the UK to visit his daughter, what could go wrong...
Good story that delves into Jack's past and the reason he fled to Oz. Complications begin when someone wants revenge and used a person close to Jack to achieve it. How will Jack react and can their plan be foiled?
I received an ARC and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 8, 2022
Well plotted
A taught well plotted thriller, with a likeable hero, who thank goodness, doesn't follow the usual throng of "damaged detectives" with only teetotal as a nod to the trend. Good action scenes and resolution.
A taught well plotted thriller, with a likeable hero, who thank goodness, doesn't follow the usual throng of "damaged detectives" with only teetotal as a nod to the trend. Good action scenes and resolution.
April 1, 2022
Great story
Full of suspense, intrigue and suspense throughout the story. It also has a big finish. It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the story.
Full of suspense, intrigue and suspense throughout the story. It also has a big finish. It kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the story.
November 2, 2023
Shot to the Heart (4)
WOW?! THIS story/book is totally off the charts G R E A T !!!
I couldn't stay awake long enough to read in one session but I finished it the next day! Its a wonderful book about father and daughter! It gives wonderful credibility to the love father, daughter and the rest of the family have for each other !!
WOW?! THIS story/book is totally off the charts G R E A T !!!
I couldn't stay awake long enough to read in one session but I finished it the next day! Its a wonderful book about father and daughter! It gives wonderful credibility to the love father, daughter and the rest of the family have for each other !!
November 14, 2024
meh
Didn’t like the hero…or very many characters. H didn’t seem very grateful; lied to ex wife. All around, did not enjoy this novel
Didn’t like the hero…or very many characters. H didn’t seem very grateful; lied to ex wife. All around, did not enjoy this novel
March 9, 2025
I just love all Blair Denholm's books!
March 22, 2025
This series doesn't fail to give you a great read you don't want to put down.
May 12, 2025
A return to the UK to see his daughter, Skye, turns into an episode Jack definitely doesn’t want to repeat.
August 16, 2023
An easy read with enough of a plot to keep me engaged. Enjoyed the characters.
April 11, 2023
Shot to the Heart, #4 - Story begins five years after Jack leaves London for AU and picks up where Trick Shot ends. Vacation in England is not what he expected when the past comes after him. 4*
Fighting Dirty - An interesting introduction to a new series describes how the life of an ex-fighter turned police detective is involuntarily uprooted from the UK to the Queensland Police Service in AU. 4*
Take Down - Takes place about six months after Fighting Dirty ends. Jack is in the wrong place at the wrong time. 4*
Kill Shot, #1 - Interesting but a bit wordy. The coppers are an interesting group of characters. Good story lines kept me immersed until the end. The story picks up four years after Take Down ends. Would highly recommend reading Fighting Dirty and Take Down first. 4*
Shot Clock, #2 - Another interesting read that picks up about a year after Fighting Dirty ends. Good blending of old and new story lines along with an interesting variety of characters made this a fast paced read. Judas betrayed Jesus, Peter denied Him, Blair. 4*
Trick Shot, #3 - Interesting read, although a bit wordy. Good story lines with a couple of bad characters, one of them, a top law enforcement officer. Jack is being himself, both the Limey and Aussie versions working together trying to solve the murder and get home to his daughter. Some humor here and there. 4*
Revolution Day - This is my first book by Denholm. I tried several times to read RD, but the English colloquialisms used by the Russian characters peeved me immensely. My lack of tolerance over this not so minor detail is probably due to my growing up on Robert Ludlum, and many other good and great authors. Foreign languages were actually spoken in these books. Plus the fact my generation was better educated in school.
While I know, and have noticed, that the writing styles of the newer/younger authors will never be up to par with just the good writers of the not so distant past, at least an effort can be made for accuracy. Writing books is not the same as today's Journalism.
While this book is a dud per my standards, Denholm does well with his Jack Lisbon series, an English DS working in AU. 2*
Fighting Dirty - An interesting introduction to a new series describes how the life of an ex-fighter turned police detective is involuntarily uprooted from the UK to the Queensland Police Service in AU. 4*
Take Down - Takes place about six months after Fighting Dirty ends. Jack is in the wrong place at the wrong time. 4*
Kill Shot, #1 - Interesting but a bit wordy. The coppers are an interesting group of characters. Good story lines kept me immersed until the end. The story picks up four years after Take Down ends. Would highly recommend reading Fighting Dirty and Take Down first. 4*
Shot Clock, #2 - Another interesting read that picks up about a year after Fighting Dirty ends. Good blending of old and new story lines along with an interesting variety of characters made this a fast paced read. Judas betrayed Jesus, Peter denied Him, Blair. 4*
Trick Shot, #3 - Interesting read, although a bit wordy. Good story lines with a couple of bad characters, one of them, a top law enforcement officer. Jack is being himself, both the Limey and Aussie versions working together trying to solve the murder and get home to his daughter. Some humor here and there. 4*
Revolution Day - This is my first book by Denholm. I tried several times to read RD, but the English colloquialisms used by the Russian characters peeved me immensely. My lack of tolerance over this not so minor detail is probably due to my growing up on Robert Ludlum, and many other good and great authors. Foreign languages were actually spoken in these books. Plus the fact my generation was better educated in school.
While I know, and have noticed, that the writing styles of the newer/younger authors will never be up to par with just the good writers of the not so distant past, at least an effort can be made for accuracy. Writing books is not the same as today's Journalism.
While this book is a dud per my standards, Denholm does well with his Jack Lisbon series, an English DS working in AU. 2*
February 2, 2023
Daddy’s little girl
An outing with the wee lass to your old stomping grounds during a long overdue custodial visit. What could go wrong, hey? Well… a lot actually. Skye’s innocent and unshakable faith in her father’s ability as a detective is probably what’ll keep her relatively sane. Plus, her mother’s insistence that she attend long-term therapy.
Chasing down his daughter’s kidnappers was so realistic – especially when using Google Maps to follow along. I spent a little bit of time “surfing” Scotland to get a better feel for the story.
Fave quotes:
‘As I live and breathe’
‘The tide on a bottle of Jack Daniels bourbon was about a third of the way out to sea’ This one kinda reminds me of “Two Piña Coladas line ‘Let's set sail with Captain Morgan and never leave dry land’.
And of course, this wouldn’t be a Jack Lisbon book without some punk. Music, not young degenerates. This go around, readers are treated to some Crazy Town, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Billy Idol, and Sex Pistols.
IRL lesson: be careful what you say and around whom. One never knows who is listening and what goes in the ears just as easily goes out the mouth. Let’s keep our kids safe.
See my reviews for books 2-3 and 5 & 6. Will we see some Cult in #7?
An outing with the wee lass to your old stomping grounds during a long overdue custodial visit. What could go wrong, hey? Well… a lot actually. Skye’s innocent and unshakable faith in her father’s ability as a detective is probably what’ll keep her relatively sane. Plus, her mother’s insistence that she attend long-term therapy.
Chasing down his daughter’s kidnappers was so realistic – especially when using Google Maps to follow along. I spent a little bit of time “surfing” Scotland to get a better feel for the story.
Fave quotes:
‘As I live and breathe’
‘The tide on a bottle of Jack Daniels bourbon was about a third of the way out to sea’ This one kinda reminds me of “Two Piña Coladas line ‘Let's set sail with Captain Morgan and never leave dry land’.
And of course, this wouldn’t be a Jack Lisbon book without some punk. Music, not young degenerates. This go around, readers are treated to some Crazy Town, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Billy Idol, and Sex Pistols.
IRL lesson: be careful what you say and around whom. One never knows who is listening and what goes in the ears just as easily goes out the mouth. Let’s keep our kids safe.
See my reviews for books 2-3 and 5 & 6. Will we see some Cult in #7?
February 1, 2023
Shot to the Heart: An action-packed noir crime thriller (The Fighting Detective Book 4) , my seventh read from author Blair Denholm, Outstanding, entertaining police/detective fiction this time set in England, well-written with characters & a plot you can buy into with unexpected twists & turns. When Jack returns to England to visit his daughter all hell breaks loose.“ The best Jack Lisbon yet! I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." So good I went out & purchased a copy. The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
July 17, 2023
I sort of enjoyed this story, the abduction of the young girl, the work of the father that we early on find out is a murderer, but a nice one….please. I don’t think he can compare to the likes of Ian Rankin, Val McDermid or Michael Connelly. I will try another book by this author, because I found the dialogues a bit grating. All very confusing.
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