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Smiley and McBlythe #7
Murder Down The Line
Three families. Two murders. One blind PI. Has he finally met his match?
Blind PI Steve Smiley’s former homicide partner is in trouble. If Leo can’t solve an eighty-year-old cold case murder, he’ll be put out to pasture before his time.
When Smiley offers to help out his old partner, what he finds is a generations-long feud between three families. With no love lost between any of them, Smiley’s field of suspects grows and Leo’s future looks bleak.
Before Smiley can help his friend solve the cold case, the feuding families are rocked by another murder. Is history repeating itself? Are the two killings connected? With a real live killer on the loose, can Smiley connect the dots and solve the cases, or will another murder be relegated to the cold case files?
Smiley and McBlythe deliver a page-turning mystery with no foul language, sex scenes or graphic violence. Get your copy today to find out whodunit!
Blind PI Steve Smiley’s former homicide partner is in trouble. If Leo can’t solve an eighty-year-old cold case murder, he’ll be put out to pasture before his time.
When Smiley offers to help out his old partner, what he finds is a generations-long feud between three families. With no love lost between any of them, Smiley’s field of suspects grows and Leo’s future looks bleak.
Before Smiley can help his friend solve the cold case, the feuding families are rocked by another murder. Is history repeating itself? Are the two killings connected? With a real live killer on the loose, can Smiley connect the dots and solve the cases, or will another murder be relegated to the cold case files?
Smiley and McBlythe deliver a page-turning mystery with no foul language, sex scenes or graphic violence. Get your copy today to find out whodunit!
- GenresMysteryMystery Thriller
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2022
147 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Bruce Hammack
49 books425 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 16, 2026
Murder Down The Line by Bruce Hammack
Synopsis /
Three families. Two murders. One blind PI. Has he finally met his match?
Blind PI Steve Smiley’s former homicide partner is in trouble. If Leo can’t solve an eighty-year-old cold case murder, he’ll be put out to pasture before his time.
When Smiley offers to help out his old partner, what he finds is a generations-long feud between three families. With no love lost between any of them, Smiley’s field of suspects grows and Leo’s future looks bleak.
Before Smiley can help his friend solve the cold case, the feuding families are rocked by another murder. Is history repeating itself? Are the two killings connected? With a real live killer on the loose, can Smiley connect the dots and solve the cases, or will another murder be relegated to the cold case files?
My Thoughts /
Small towns. Big secrets.
Murder Down The Line by Bruce Hammack is the seventh novel in the Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series, that features blind private investigator Steve Smiley who solves complex mystery cases with his PI business partner, Heather McBlythe.
In this story, Steve helps out his former partner, homicide detective, Leo Vega. Departmental politicking has meant that Leo has been transferred to the Cold Case squad and is in danger of being forced into early retirement if he cannot solve an 80-year-old cold case murder. The case in question involves the 1942 murder of a young man named Rodney Wells. Wells, who grew up in Mattherson County, was a second lieutenant in the army and was shot dead as he was disembarking a train in Houston during WWII.
On a conjoined thread, Heather's father is working a deal trying to finalise a land buyout of owners in Mattherson County which will grant a right of way for a bullet train between Houston and Dallas. A couple of the landholders are dilly dallying on the buyout price, so he has ordered Heather to head down to see if she can find a workable solution.
On arrival, the pair quickly learn that Mattherson County is run by two very influential families. For Steve, looking into a cold case means a trip to the local library, where research uncovered that these families have been "influencing" this County for decades. For Heather, this nugget of information reveals how she must approach the landholders to sell.
As Steve digs into the mystery of his case, he uncovers a generations-long feud between three prominent local families. Then, another murder occurs, leading him to question if history is repeating itself and if the two killings are connected. As Steve muses: It's like a blind guy looking for a needle in a haystack.
This case definitely tests Steve's abilities.
Self-pity had almost cost him his sanity, and it had no place in his life now. After all, he’d shown he could still solve murders, even if Houston P.D. had put him out to pasture.
Can Steve and Heather navigate a web of family secrets, power dynamics, and lies to catch a live killer and save Leo's career?
Synopsis /
Three families. Two murders. One blind PI. Has he finally met his match?
Blind PI Steve Smiley’s former homicide partner is in trouble. If Leo can’t solve an eighty-year-old cold case murder, he’ll be put out to pasture before his time.
When Smiley offers to help out his old partner, what he finds is a generations-long feud between three families. With no love lost between any of them, Smiley’s field of suspects grows and Leo’s future looks bleak.
Before Smiley can help his friend solve the cold case, the feuding families are rocked by another murder. Is history repeating itself? Are the two killings connected? With a real live killer on the loose, can Smiley connect the dots and solve the cases, or will another murder be relegated to the cold case files?
My Thoughts /
Small towns. Big secrets.
Murder Down The Line by Bruce Hammack is the seventh novel in the Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series, that features blind private investigator Steve Smiley who solves complex mystery cases with his PI business partner, Heather McBlythe.
In this story, Steve helps out his former partner, homicide detective, Leo Vega. Departmental politicking has meant that Leo has been transferred to the Cold Case squad and is in danger of being forced into early retirement if he cannot solve an 80-year-old cold case murder. The case in question involves the 1942 murder of a young man named Rodney Wells. Wells, who grew up in Mattherson County, was a second lieutenant in the army and was shot dead as he was disembarking a train in Houston during WWII.
On a conjoined thread, Heather's father is working a deal trying to finalise a land buyout of owners in Mattherson County which will grant a right of way for a bullet train between Houston and Dallas. A couple of the landholders are dilly dallying on the buyout price, so he has ordered Heather to head down to see if she can find a workable solution.
On arrival, the pair quickly learn that Mattherson County is run by two very influential families. For Steve, looking into a cold case means a trip to the local library, where research uncovered that these families have been "influencing" this County for decades. For Heather, this nugget of information reveals how she must approach the landholders to sell.
As Steve digs into the mystery of his case, he uncovers a generations-long feud between three prominent local families. Then, another murder occurs, leading him to question if history is repeating itself and if the two killings are connected. As Steve muses: It's like a blind guy looking for a needle in a haystack.
This case definitely tests Steve's abilities.
Self-pity had almost cost him his sanity, and it had no place in his life now. After all, he’d shown he could still solve murders, even if Houston P.D. had put him out to pasture.
Can Steve and Heather navigate a web of family secrets, power dynamics, and lies to catch a live killer and save Leo's career?
April 29, 2022
I was so happy to receive another Smiley and McBlythe mystery. I love the premis of a blind private investigator who can "see" where a murder has taken place with a "sidekick"...really his partner ...who is a brilliant businesswoman. As I've pointed out in another review, Smiley reminds me of Nero Wolfe and sometimes Poirot the way he gathers all the parties, including, suspects to reveal the murderer at the end of the investigation.
Smiley's former partner in the police department requested Smiley's help with a cold case, of a murder that took place in 1942. The young man was from a small Texas town where secrets abounded both then and now. McBlythe is involved with a real estate deal that takes her to the same town and invites Smiley along so he can try to gather information about the murdered man. They find the town is run by one family determined to keep their power in part by hiding information from the past. Then a young woman, the daughter of another prominent family, is murdered in Houston. Are the cases connected in some way? The author cleverly takes you through the evidence gathering, interviews of people in the town, and ultimately to the solution of both murders.
As usual with this series, I read the book in one sitting and can't wait to read another. The three books I've read so far were out of order (this one is #9) but all easily can be read as standalones.
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Review Copy from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Smiley's former partner in the police department requested Smiley's help with a cold case, of a murder that took place in 1942. The young man was from a small Texas town where secrets abounded both then and now. McBlythe is involved with a real estate deal that takes her to the same town and invites Smiley along so he can try to gather information about the murdered man. They find the town is run by one family determined to keep their power in part by hiding information from the past. Then a young woman, the daughter of another prominent family, is murdered in Houston. Are the cases connected in some way? The author cleverly takes you through the evidence gathering, interviews of people in the town, and ultimately to the solution of both murders.
As usual with this series, I read the book in one sitting and can't wait to read another. The three books I've read so far were out of order (this one is #9) but all easily can be read as standalones.
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Review Copy from BookSirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2022
I may have said this a time or two in past reviews, but here I go again… having lived in a small town while growing up, I could easily picture many of the interactions among the people in this story's small town actually happening, e.g., the rich family on the hill that acts as if they live by different rules and are to be treated accordingly. I enjoyed the descriptions of the location; the great dialogue; the wonderful descriptions of the characters - especially the two brothers; the intriguing storyline and, quite important to me - the author's writing style. At one point, my husband gave me a look when I chuckled aloud as I read, "Craig Palmer's frame matched his voice: large and in charge." I have know folks like this. I really enjoyed this book and will continue to read more by this author. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 28, 2022
Murder Down the Line is Book 9 of A Smiley and McBlythe Mystery by Bruce Hammack. I think this book was fantastic and I love the team Smiley and McBlythe. Leo Vega has been kicked down to cold cases and his first case is a 1942 case. I thought that Bruce Hammack was so clever to mix the 1942 murder with a current murder. There was tons of action and the story was built with clues and surprises. I can't wait to read book 10 (I hope!). I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
April 1, 2025
Steve and Heather get involved in small town intrigue among the three founding families that leads to murder. Loved the characters and plot. Some transitions were abrupt but maybe that is the style of the writer. Enjoying this clean read mystery series.
April 29, 2022
I received an advance copy for free and this review is my honest opinion. I love this series, and this newest book doesn't disappoint. Steve has a cold case and a new one to solve but Smiley and McBlythe are up to the challenge. If you want a mystery that isn't easy to solve, wonderful characters, and a good, clean read, this book is for you.
May 2, 2022
Leo being transferred to ColdCases, much to his disapproval.
Steve offering to help him, with the first one.
Is it even able to be solved, it’s from 1942
Heather is busy trying to work on a project with her father, frustrated
An interesting case of a young pilot, stepping off a train was shot, during the time of WWII. How it was connected to a murder and the project that Heather was working on. Only Steve could see the secrets that was hidden within a family and people’s motive. Interesting and enjoyed this good series. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Steve offering to help him, with the first one.
Is it even able to be solved, it’s from 1942
Heather is busy trying to work on a project with her father, frustrated
An interesting case of a young pilot, stepping off a train was shot, during the time of WWII. How it was connected to a murder and the project that Heather was working on. Only Steve could see the secrets that was hidden within a family and people’s motive. Interesting and enjoyed this good series. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
April 24, 2022
Another winner, great mystery with our favorite sleuths. I read it in one sitting.
October 30, 2023
When I rate and review books, I make my conclusions the way one would for a dog show. In comparing this particular book against others in the same genre, I would say it rates near the top and I rounded it up to 5 stars. One of the author's strengths is his ability to create interesting and memorable characters. The author also has a talent for carrying the story forward with dialogue that adds realism to the characters. I enjoy the subtle and overt humor in the book that matches my own western, small town roots. The book is an easy and entertaining pleasure read; there is enough story, description, and intrigue to hold my interest until the end.
UPDATE: Mr. Hammack has revised and edited his book, so that the improvements I suggested below have all been addressed in the current version of the book. As an author, his writing is superb for a mystery writer, and the effort he has put forth has resulted in an excellent read. Don't hesitate to buy a copy.
For me in particular, there are some improvements that could have been made. I'm sure other readers may not even care or notice what I did. So I still highly recommend the book. Here's what would have made it better for me. There are a few typographical and grammatical errors, and also some awkward sentence structures, so some minor editing would improve the writing. I loved Babbs the cat lady grandmother. "I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
UPDATE: Mr. Hammack has revised and edited his book, so that the improvements I suggested below have all been addressed in the current version of the book. As an author, his writing is superb for a mystery writer, and the effort he has put forth has resulted in an excellent read. Don't hesitate to buy a copy.
For me in particular, there are some improvements that could have been made. I'm sure other readers may not even care or notice what I did. So I still highly recommend the book. Here's what would have made it better for me. There are a few typographical and grammatical errors, and also some awkward sentence structures, so some minor editing would improve the writing. I loved Babbs the cat lady grandmother. "I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily."
May 18, 2022
Great addition to this fun series. The characters are entertaining and interesting. The male protagonist solves murders in a similar low key, persona very much like Columbo while the female protagonist is smart and driven to succeed but willing to forgo her goals if it means solving a crime. The story is well written and the mystery has multiple twists and turns. Can't wait to read more of this series.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
May 6, 2022
In the town of Mattherson, Texas, the three founding families started with cooperation for the betterment of everyone. Then a bitter feud started more than 100 years ago, and they are still making power plays.
Trying to out earn and out spend isn't so bad, however, the power struggles within families may be doing more damage than any of them realize.
A cold case murder takes private detectives Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe to the town for research, but ghosts of the past and present intermingle. One family's crimes may be repeating; which one?
Another great mystery from author Bruce Hammack! A little more complicated, with a triad of families involved, so a great surprise or two may make it even more satisfying.
5/5 Stars Entertaining and clean!
Thanks to Jubilee Publishing and Book Sirens for the free preview of this ebook; the review is voluntary.
#MurderDownTheLine #BookSirens
#JubileePublishing #MurderMystery
#WomenSleuths #BruceHammack
#PrivateInvestigatorMysteries
#SteveSmiley #TexasMystery
#SmileyandMcBlytheMystery
*Smiley and McBlythe deliver a page-turning mystery with no foul language, sex scenes or graphic violence.
Note to publisher/author:
I understand Heather's distrust (because of the past), but I'm getting really tired of her panicking episodes and runaway imagination. I hoped that Heather had learned in book 6 to stop assuming Jack was with some bimbo when she couldn't reach him. And she doesn't even make a Note to notify him when she leaves town--so why should he?
And she's still trying to impress her father, although she did better this time.
She needs to get counseling. Otherwise, I'm considering not reading any more of the series. It doesn't feel like she's growing.
I really enjoy the books, but Heather's flights of anxiety are wearing on me, and this is only my 3rd book!
Trying to out earn and out spend isn't so bad, however, the power struggles within families may be doing more damage than any of them realize.
A cold case murder takes private detectives Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe to the town for research, but ghosts of the past and present intermingle. One family's crimes may be repeating; which one?
Another great mystery from author Bruce Hammack! A little more complicated, with a triad of families involved, so a great surprise or two may make it even more satisfying.
5/5 Stars Entertaining and clean!
Thanks to Jubilee Publishing and Book Sirens for the free preview of this ebook; the review is voluntary.
#MurderDownTheLine #BookSirens
#JubileePublishing #MurderMystery
#WomenSleuths #BruceHammack
#PrivateInvestigatorMysteries
#SteveSmiley #TexasMystery
#SmileyandMcBlytheMystery
*Smiley and McBlythe deliver a page-turning mystery with no foul language, sex scenes or graphic violence.
Note to publisher/author:
I understand Heather's distrust (because of the past), but I'm getting really tired of her panicking episodes and runaway imagination. I hoped that Heather had learned in book 6 to stop assuming Jack was with some bimbo when she couldn't reach him. And she doesn't even make a Note to notify him when she leaves town--so why should he?
And she's still trying to impress her father, although she did better this time.
She needs to get counseling. Otherwise, I'm considering not reading any more of the series. It doesn't feel like she's growing.
I really enjoy the books, but Heather's flights of anxiety are wearing on me, and this is only my 3rd book!
May 3, 2022
I received an ARC through Booksirens and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The story begins with Steve receiving a call from Leo to meet him for breakfast. When Steve arrived, Leo told him that he had been transferred to Cold Cases. Leo was down and Steve tried to raide his spirits. Steve told Leo that he would help him with his cold cases.
Heather, Steve's business partner, was busy working on a business deal and wasn't having a lot of luck. When Leo called Steve and gave him the information on an 80 year old c old case that he had been assigned. Heather told Steve that she would not be able to assist because of her pursuit of resolving her business problem. As things turned out, both issues were somewhat connected.
Heather had to go on a trip and she asked if Steve wanted to come along. It so happened that the location they were going to played into the business issue as well as the Cold Case. While they were in the area, a killing took place that was associated with one of the people that Heather was contacting. The person who the police had selected as a prime suspect also was associated with another party that heather was speaking with. When Heather and Steve left, their interest was peaked and they would be coming back to help locae the correct keller.
Following the clues that Steve and Heather discover as they try and learn who did it, read the final conclusion that tells the whole story and resoves the Cold Case as well.
The book is well written and you won't be disappointed.
The story begins with Steve receiving a call from Leo to meet him for breakfast. When Steve arrived, Leo told him that he had been transferred to Cold Cases. Leo was down and Steve tried to raide his spirits. Steve told Leo that he would help him with his cold cases.
Heather, Steve's business partner, was busy working on a business deal and wasn't having a lot of luck. When Leo called Steve and gave him the information on an 80 year old c old case that he had been assigned. Heather told Steve that she would not be able to assist because of her pursuit of resolving her business problem. As things turned out, both issues were somewhat connected.
Heather had to go on a trip and she asked if Steve wanted to come along. It so happened that the location they were going to played into the business issue as well as the Cold Case. While they were in the area, a killing took place that was associated with one of the people that Heather was contacting. The person who the police had selected as a prime suspect also was associated with another party that heather was speaking with. When Heather and Steve left, their interest was peaked and they would be coming back to help locae the correct keller.
Following the clues that Steve and Heather discover as they try and learn who did it, read the final conclusion that tells the whole story and resoves the Cold Case as well.
The book is well written and you won't be disappointed.
November 15, 2023
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series:
Murder Down The Line, #6 - This is an enjoyable, entertaining series. I like the main characters, the well thought out story lines, and the processes to solve the crimes. Two crimes and a surprise made for a hard to put down read but the pages flew by rapidly. Source: BookSirens. 5*
Exercise Is Murder, prequel - An interesting and immersing introduction to Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe
and their beginnings. Recommend reading this first. 4*
Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells, 1 - Interesting and immersing easy read with a steady pace, good story lines, good characters and good values made this a hard to put down read. Recommend reading the prequel, Exercise is Murder first. 5*
Murder In The Dunes, #4 - Difficult to put down with its steady pace, easy to read writing style and good characters and story lines. 5*
A Beach to Die For, #8 - While still an interesting story, it was missing something. I had a hard time, here and there, keeping my interest in the story. Good characters and story lines, but an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
Mistletoe, Malice And Murder, #9 - Interesting but too easy to figure out the murderer. Good story lines with humor and good characters. Source: BookSirens. 4*
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series end.
Murder Down The Line, #6 - This is an enjoyable, entertaining series. I like the main characters, the well thought out story lines, and the processes to solve the crimes. Two crimes and a surprise made for a hard to put down read but the pages flew by rapidly. Source: BookSirens. 5*
Exercise Is Murder, prequel - An interesting and immersing introduction to Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe
and their beginnings. Recommend reading this first. 4*
Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells, 1 - Interesting and immersing easy read with a steady pace, good story lines, good characters and good values made this a hard to put down read. Recommend reading the prequel, Exercise is Murder first. 5*
Murder In The Dunes, #4 - Difficult to put down with its steady pace, easy to read writing style and good characters and story lines. 5*
A Beach to Die For, #8 - While still an interesting story, it was missing something. I had a hard time, here and there, keeping my interest in the story. Good characters and story lines, but an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
Mistletoe, Malice And Murder, #9 - Interesting but too easy to figure out the murderer. Good story lines with humor and good characters. Source: BookSirens. 4*
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series end.
May 25, 2022
I received advanced review copy of this book for free in return for an honest review. It is the forth book I hovered of Bruce Hammack's and enjoyed it just as much as the first.
Police Officer Leo has been side lined to cold cases and his ex partner, Private Investigator, Steve smiley offers to help on the quiet. Steve tags along on a trip with his part time partner Heather who is trying to finalise a deal on a land purchase for a new railroad, the landowner turns out to be a family member of the murder victim in the 80 year old murder case. Whilst they were there another murder takes place involving members of the same family and they are asked investigate. I like the fact that Steve Smiley proves again that the loss of his sight enhances his other senses showing that loosing your sight is not necessarily the end of the world, he has reinvented himself successfully with the help of his friend , Heather and there is a definite connection between Heather and Steve in a platonic relationship showing that males and females can be friends without having to be friends with benefits. It is a refreshing book and a bit old fashioned as there is no foul language, sex scenes or gory violence and it is wonderful to have books like this. I will definitely read more of his books.
Police Officer Leo has been side lined to cold cases and his ex partner, Private Investigator, Steve smiley offers to help on the quiet. Steve tags along on a trip with his part time partner Heather who is trying to finalise a deal on a land purchase for a new railroad, the landowner turns out to be a family member of the murder victim in the 80 year old murder case. Whilst they were there another murder takes place involving members of the same family and they are asked investigate. I like the fact that Steve Smiley proves again that the loss of his sight enhances his other senses showing that loosing your sight is not necessarily the end of the world, he has reinvented himself successfully with the help of his friend , Heather and there is a definite connection between Heather and Steve in a platonic relationship showing that males and females can be friends without having to be friends with benefits. It is a refreshing book and a bit old fashioned as there is no foul language, sex scenes or gory violence and it is wonderful to have books like this. I will definitely read more of his books.
December 2, 2022
Had read the previous to this so already met the central characters of blind, ex homicide detective Smiley and mega-rich entrepreneur Heather McBlythe admiring the set-up for the descriptive and plot possibilities available to the author. This one is set in small town Texas where three families are historically and romantically intertwined.
I enjoyed the descriptions and characterisations of several of the side actors in the tale, but felt the plot relied too much upon use of police resources that were more properly aimed at a different case. There are two mysteries that are resolved in the book, but I did not feel completely satisfied with the modern one. The unpleasant characters seemed to have no redeeming features which made them more caricatures and so gave away the solution too early.
I did not like the formatting in this book. The initial letter of the first word in each chapter spans three lines and makes for confusion in reading the next two lines. It also seemed arbitrary when the whole of a line at the top of the page was in all capital letters. There were several grammatical errors which did not seriously interfere with the story, but do irritate a pedant like me.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the descriptions and characterisations of several of the side actors in the tale, but felt the plot relied too much upon use of police resources that were more properly aimed at a different case. There are two mysteries that are resolved in the book, but I did not feel completely satisfied with the modern one. The unpleasant characters seemed to have no redeeming features which made them more caricatures and so gave away the solution too early.
I did not like the formatting in this book. The initial letter of the first word in each chapter spans three lines and makes for confusion in reading the next two lines. It also seemed arbitrary when the whole of a line at the top of the page was in all capital letters. There were several grammatical errors which did not seriously interfere with the story, but do irritate a pedant like me.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 11, 2022
The Past and the Present on a Collision Course...
Leo Vega, Steve Smiley's former police partner, has been relegated to Cold Cases and is tasked with solving a case from 1942 that nobody has ever been able to make headway on. Steve offers to help while Heather is tackling a proposed railroad line that will go through the town of Mattherson. Belinda Mattherson thinks she controls the town and refuses to even consider allowing the railroad project in the town. The feud between the Mattherson and Palmer families goes back a long way and seems to be getting worse, rather than ever working toward any type of compromise. Brian Mattherson and Amanda Palmer like each other, but their parents don't even want them to attend the same school. When Amanda Palmer is killed after speaking with Smiley, the quest to solve both murders becomes more personal.
Are the two cases connected? Can Smiley uncover the connection, if it exists? Will Smiley be able to help his former partner save his career?
Bruce Hammack has created a fantastic mystery with plenty of twists, turns, lies, and red herrings to keep the reader thoroughly engaged clear to the end. A smidgeo of humor throughout the story definitely adds to the reading enjoyment.
Leo Vega, Steve Smiley's former police partner, has been relegated to Cold Cases and is tasked with solving a case from 1942 that nobody has ever been able to make headway on. Steve offers to help while Heather is tackling a proposed railroad line that will go through the town of Mattherson. Belinda Mattherson thinks she controls the town and refuses to even consider allowing the railroad project in the town. The feud between the Mattherson and Palmer families goes back a long way and seems to be getting worse, rather than ever working toward any type of compromise. Brian Mattherson and Amanda Palmer like each other, but their parents don't even want them to attend the same school. When Amanda Palmer is killed after speaking with Smiley, the quest to solve both murders becomes more personal.
Are the two cases connected? Can Smiley uncover the connection, if it exists? Will Smiley be able to help his former partner save his career?
Bruce Hammack has created a fantastic mystery with plenty of twists, turns, lies, and red herrings to keep the reader thoroughly engaged clear to the end. A smidgeo of humor throughout the story definitely adds to the reading enjoyment.
October 6, 2022
I just don't understand how these books can just keep getting better when from the very first book I've said that they were simply awesome! He's blown me away with this one!
These characters are so well thought out and written that I forget that they aren't someone I could get to meet! The stories always grab you from page one and keep you reading straight through until the end! I used to be kinda proud of myself for figuring out parts of the mystery involved in the cases but now I've become convinced that Mr Hammack is just throwing out a few bones so that I don't feel stupid!! ;) Lol
You really want to read these books! Yeah they can be read as standalones, but trust me start with the first one and just keep going because they're wonderful books and you get to fall in love with the characters and follow them through their transitions. I highly recommend this book if you haven't already guessed! :)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
These characters are so well thought out and written that I forget that they aren't someone I could get to meet! The stories always grab you from page one and keep you reading straight through until the end! I used to be kinda proud of myself for figuring out parts of the mystery involved in the cases but now I've become convinced that Mr Hammack is just throwing out a few bones so that I don't feel stupid!! ;) Lol
You really want to read these books! Yeah they can be read as standalones, but trust me start with the first one and just keep going because they're wonderful books and you get to fall in love with the characters and follow them through their transitions. I highly recommend this book if you haven't already guessed! :)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2022
Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe are back and this time they are trying to help Steve’s former partner, who has been transferred to the Cold Case squad and landed with an 80 year old murder case to solve. Obviously easier said than done. Heather is in the middle of a job for her father which just happens to be in the area of the old murder case. They don’t believe in coincidences.
I really like Steve and Heathers relationship, they bounce nicely off each other. The fact that Steve is blind doesn’t hold them back in any way, in fact with Steve’s senses sharpened so much they have a distinct advantage at times over the police. A stand alone read, I’m glad I’ve read the previous books in the series. This is an enjoyable read, enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested and a satisfying ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I really like Steve and Heathers relationship, they bounce nicely off each other. The fact that Steve is blind doesn’t hold them back in any way, in fact with Steve’s senses sharpened so much they have a distinct advantage at times over the police. A stand alone read, I’m glad I’ve read the previous books in the series. This is an enjoyable read, enough twists and turns to keep the reader interested and a satisfying ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
December 24, 2022
Another hit for me from author Bruce Hammack, and his series about blind PI Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe! In this story there are 2 different timelines to follow, the first because of Steve's friend Lou,who as a Police Officer has been moved to the Cold Case division, and he is so not happy about it, as the first case is from 1942!
As it happens, Heather has a business issue to deal with, and so can't help Steve, but as things progress it seems that there may be some connection in these 2 very different cases!
One of the things I truly enjoy about the books by Bruce Hammack is that they have many twists and turns, but also because they are a clean, fun, entertaining read, written by someone who truly knows Police procedure!
I received this Advanced Reader Copy for free and happily leave feedback on a book that I truly enjoyed! As always, it leaves me wanting to read the next in the series!
As it happens, Heather has a business issue to deal with, and so can't help Steve, but as things progress it seems that there may be some connection in these 2 very different cases!
One of the things I truly enjoy about the books by Bruce Hammack is that they have many twists and turns, but also because they are a clean, fun, entertaining read, written by someone who truly knows Police procedure!
I received this Advanced Reader Copy for free and happily leave feedback on a book that I truly enjoyed! As always, it leaves me wanting to read the next in the series!
May 1, 2022
When Smiley’s friend Leo is demoted to the Cold Case division, he’s very discouraged. So, Smiley decides to help him out with the 1924 case all the newbies are given. Heather is trying to negotiate the sale of land to for a bullet train. Oddly enough, both have roots on the small Texas town of Mattherson! So Heather and Smiley head to Mattherson to try and work their cases. But Mattherson is a town founded by 3 feuding families and neither is finding it easy to make headway! I always enjoy Smiley and McBlythe books, as Heather is one very sharp lawyer and past detective, it’s always fascinating to see how Smiley, also a past detective, now blind, solves cases. Great characters and an unbelievable plot, with lots of twists and hidden surprises! I received an ARC of this book from the author and BookSirens and write this review voluntarily.
May 5, 2022
This is part of an excellent series based in Texas and the ongoing characters are Steve (former homicide cop now widower, blind, PI), Heather (Steve's business partner, good friend, former Boston cop, lawyer, money person), Leo (active-duty cop who used to be Steve's partner), and Max (the Maine Coon cat big enough for Steve and Heather to share). This can be read as a stand alone because clues are scattered throughout the story.
This time, the place is a small town with feuding families, someone wanting to buy land for a limited railroad, an 80-year-old cold case involving a man from that town, police department politics, and the murder of a brilliant young woman. The case is twisty, witty, and riveting. LOVED IT!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and BookSirens and write this review voluntarily.
This time, the place is a small town with feuding families, someone wanting to buy land for a limited railroad, an 80-year-old cold case involving a man from that town, police department politics, and the murder of a brilliant young woman. The case is twisty, witty, and riveting. LOVED IT!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and BookSirens and write this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2022
The author excels in his craft with this newest book in his Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series.
The majority of the story is told through masterful conversation and dialogue between his characters, with story lines woven in and through ongoing themes.
My heart was pulled right in at the beginning and held captive to the resolution, which was very rewarding.
However, by not answering all my subject questions, I'm sure we can anticipate another volume in this series.
I've thoroughly enjoyed Bruce Hammack's Star of Justice series too and would love to see a collaboration between the casts of characters in both series - to compile a third. Hmmmm?
I think I'll start both series over and read all the way through again, for the fun and thrill of it!
Read "Murder Down the Line" for yourself and enjoy!!!
The majority of the story is told through masterful conversation and dialogue between his characters, with story lines woven in and through ongoing themes.
My heart was pulled right in at the beginning and held captive to the resolution, which was very rewarding.
However, by not answering all my subject questions, I'm sure we can anticipate another volume in this series.
I've thoroughly enjoyed Bruce Hammack's Star of Justice series too and would love to see a collaboration between the casts of characters in both series - to compile a third. Hmmmm?
I think I'll start both series over and read all the way through again, for the fun and thrill of it!
Read "Murder Down the Line" for yourself and enjoy!!!
June 1, 2022
Author Bruce Hammack is skilled at weaving a tightly plotted mystery that keeps you (me, anyway!) guessing who the killer is right up until PI Smiley's customary locked-room revelation with all the suspects in place.
In this novel, Smiley and McBlythe are actually working to solve two murders--a cold case Smiley's former homicide partner has been assigned to, along with the recent murder of a young woman. Feuding families form the connection between the two murders, but it'll take every bit of Smiley's detection skills to ferret out the truth!
Since I'm always fascinated to learn where authors get their story ideas along with any interesting research involved, I especially enjoyed Hammack's "story behind the story" at the end of the book.
In this novel, Smiley and McBlythe are actually working to solve two murders--a cold case Smiley's former homicide partner has been assigned to, along with the recent murder of a young woman. Feuding families form the connection between the two murders, but it'll take every bit of Smiley's detection skills to ferret out the truth!
Since I'm always fascinated to learn where authors get their story ideas along with any interesting research involved, I especially enjoyed Hammack's "story behind the story" at the end of the book.
April 24, 2024
“Small towns can have big secrets.”
This line from the book is oh too true. Heather has another job as a lawyer and real estate developer but coincidence brings them into yet another murder mystery. Helping their friend Leo yields a coincidence across decades. These situations are not casual but an indicator that the past can predict the future. One murder becomes two. Both point to the lineage of one long term family in one small town. Steve and Heather slowly unravel the obfuscations hiding the facts and let them become the clues to solve the murders.
If you love a good murder mystery and the way clues can be ferreted out by a good investigator you will love this book. It will draw you in and keep you reader all the way to the bitter end.
This line from the book is oh too true. Heather has another job as a lawyer and real estate developer but coincidence brings them into yet another murder mystery. Helping their friend Leo yields a coincidence across decades. These situations are not casual but an indicator that the past can predict the future. One murder becomes two. Both point to the lineage of one long term family in one small town. Steve and Heather slowly unravel the obfuscations hiding the facts and let them become the clues to solve the murders.
If you love a good murder mystery and the way clues can be ferreted out by a good investigator you will love this book. It will draw you in and keep you reader all the way to the bitter end.
May 4, 2022
This author writes a really great mystery. His books are always clean. And that is what keeps me reading his mysteries! The characters are great. I love this series. He always keeps me guessing as to how things will turn out. I love the interesting duo that gets together to solve the case. This book revolves about a cold case of 1942 and how it relates to Heather's current project. I love solving mysteries, so this book was right up my alley!
Well, I will say you will enjoy this book. Definitely captivating!
I received an ebook arc of this book without expectations of a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
Well, I will say you will enjoy this book. Definitely captivating!
I received an ebook arc of this book without expectations of a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
May 15, 2022
This is the ninth book in this series, and I have read them all and enjoyed each one. As soon as I finish a book, I can’t wait for the next one to come out. This one doesn’t disappoint at all. I love the banter between Steve and Heather, and how they play to each other’s strengths. They are truly partners and friends, but not romantically involved. This book takes two separate murders, plus a big-money land deal, and pulls them all together to make a very interesting story. An easy read that keeps your interest. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
Murder Down the Line by Bruce Hammack is a great cozy mystery. I thoroughly enjoy these book by this author because they are clean, well written and keep me turning pages to the very end. I try to guess "whodunit", but I rarely get it right. The plot and characters are very well developed and I enjoy the way they interact with each other. I feel that I know the characters and that they are my friends. Bruce Hammack has a way that makes me feel that way. This book not only deals with a current murder/crime, but also one that happened over 70 years ago! Read it and enjoy it. You won't be disappointed.
May 8, 2022
As a Professor I have had many years of grading papers and A has to be an exceptional paper and this book meets the criteria. This is the second book I have read with these two PIs. The intricacies of the case and the way it is investigated are extremely well done. It is difficult to put the book down. The two books I read in the series can stand alone quite well and yet the blind PI uses the same tools and his amazing power to concentrate to solve the crime. I will gladly read more of this author.
May 8, 2022
Another delightful addition to the Smiley and McBythes series. This time Steve agrees to help his ex partner on the police force solve a cold case. It soon heats up with a new murder. Steve puts bits of information together until he exposes the murderer. Each book in this series can be read independently, but once you read one, you’ll probably want to read the entire series. I received an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
May 29, 2022
I love this detective series! Smiley is blind and doesn’t let it slow him down. People don’t expect someone to be blind and he doesn’t want to be pitied or treated differently. He’s got an accurate aura read in the cases he’s involved in. His partner he’s worked with her before. Enjoy their banter and antics as well as their friends. Another must read by author Bruce Hammond. *I was given a copy via BookSiren and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
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