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Violet Darger #11

Lonesome Highway

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Her body lies tucked in the shadows beneath the overpass. Steel girders yawing over her delicate form. Above her, the traffic thunders without end. Tires thumping over the bridge, over the asphalt. The black ribbon of the highway stretches into the night.

When a second body turns up in a truck stop parking lot, FBI profiler Violet Darger heads to rural North Carolina to investigate. These crimes are quickly connected to more. And more. And more.

The scope of the crisis balloons. Soon, a task force is formed to work a serial murder case spanning a 1,500 mile stretch of the interstate.

A freeway killer stalks up and down the eastern seaboard, his hunting grounds stretching from the everglades into New England.

The logistics strain law enforcement techniques and resources alike. It's overwhelming.

Darger has never worked a case like this one. Progess is slow. Frustration mounts.

And all the while, the killer is out there. On the road. Free to roam.

Darger will need to dig into the history of freeway killers to understand the psychology driving the crimes. Only then can she hope to stop him.

But complications lurk around every corner, and danger lies in wait just down the road. When Darger finally finds her way, somebody is waiting for her.

376 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 31, 2022

968 people are currently reading
2149 people want to read

About the author

L.T. Vargus

52 books1,093 followers
Lex Vargus is the co-author of over 20 thriller and horror novels.

FIND LEX ON:
Amazon - Twitter - LTVargus.com

BOOKS BY LT VARGUS

The Violet Darger series



The Victor Loshak series


The Charlotte Winters series

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5 stars
1,854 (61%)
4 stars
848 (28%)
3 stars
261 (8%)
2 stars
43 (1%)
1 star
13 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Profile Image for Linda.
757 reviews18 followers
May 7, 2023
Mildly underwhelming, but still decent enough...

Can't go wrong with Darger and Loshak. The duo is back again, and this time, they are called to help track down a serial killer rampaging truck stops, preying on "working" women along the east coast. What made this entry stand out was the sheer number of suspects to cover, as it involved truckers who travel from state to state; it was definitely hard to gauge who could possibly be the killer as each suspect seems both innocent and guilty simultaneously. I admit that I did have some minor difficulties keeping all the names straight, but the writing was just smart enough to ensure I was reminded where I needed to be so as not to be too lost.

Alas, I had my complaints, though. While the story itself was properly horrific and violent where it counted, it was still a bit lacking in other areas where it should have been thriving. That therein is why I called it "mildly underwhelming." I'm all about the thrill of the crime-solving that ran so rampant in previous Darger entries, but it wasn't until nearly the halfway point that things finally started to pick up in this one. I also felt like the overall structure of the story was a bit too sloppily put together with too pristine a resolution. The acquisition of the suspects was questionable all around and I couldn't quite buy many of the scenes involving them. I did love all the dialogue though. Wild stuff.

Overall, I still had a decent time. I wasn't bored, wasn't craving another book. I did want more, while wishing it was less sporadic and more fully-fledged out, sure, but it was still acceptable enough to warrant 3-stars. That doesn't mean I don't miss the days of EAGERLY throwing 4 or 5 stars at a Darger entry, though. These latter stories haven't quite managed to achieve the proper OOMPH I've become accustomed to in this series. Oh well. It is what it is, and I'm still a Darger fan. Bring on the next one, as I always say.

Click here for all my random commentary.
Profile Image for M.
1,576 reviews
November 19, 2022
Intense police procedural with a truck-stop serial killer

FBI Agents, state police detectives, and local law enforcement officers hunt a serial killer of prostitutes on the interstate truck stops. FBI profilers, Violet Darger and Victor Loshak, are called in after three particularly brutal murders featuring piquerism—cutting, stabbing, slashing with sharp objects. Whilst FBI analysts find other cases along I-95, Darger & Loshak give the local police quick lessons about similar serial killers and work up profiles on the fly. Agent Ellie Gummer, intelligence analyst and computer expert from ViCAP, help the profilers hone in on likely suspects. This is one case that requires Darger and Loshak to either drive or fly to various cities or isolated villages to interview multiple suspects. I was reminded of how large our country is, with lonely and desolate areas.

There are good character studies of truck driver suspects, most with other crimes on background checks. I wish Darger didn’t get so creeped out whenever she first meets a suspect. Sure, some are more terrifying than others, but she’s tangled with formidable serial killers. Darger, Loshak, and state police officers work to thin out a pool of suspects. Loshak plays a smaller role in this entry, but I chuckled at his interest in good meals, such as a highly recommended rack of ribs. As usual, Agent Darger finds her life endangered by an especially nasty character. Except for that groaner, I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Frances Hartnett .
22 reviews
November 14, 2022
Best Darger-Loshak story yet

Lots of red herrings. Set along one of America's iconic interstates, which lends its own restlessness and tension to this serial killer mystery thriller.
Profile Image for Jennifer Tooker.
436 reviews11 followers
October 31, 2022
Full disclosure - I was provided an advanced reader’s copy of this book by the authors but have voluntarily provided a review. All opinions are my own.

The (almost) perfect crime

Big Jon’s Truck stop is not the largest stop on Interstate 95, nor is it the smallest but when a body turns up naked and bound in a remote area of the lot it could contend for most dangerous. Darger and Loshak are called to the scene to assist and immediately are introduced to onlookers and eyewitnesses. As they begin their round of interviews they are called to a nearby scene. Two more bodies, with near identical markings are located at a locally known “party motel”. With the area being mostly over the road truckers and very transient, the duo have their work cut out for them. With the assistance of ViCAP a pattern begins to form and what initially was thought as a series of three murders could potentially expand to include numerous other cold cases spanning several years all up and down the I-95 corridor. In a mass effort to crack the case, representatives from the other affected case areas are called to the scene to offer insight and assist in a manhunt all along the Eastern Seaboard. But as Darger and Loshak track and interview their suspects and they start ruling them out one by one a “tip” falls into their possession that appears to blast the case wide open. But Darger smells a rat and as she continues to sniff around Big Jon’s she finds herself staring down the biggest challenge yet that could make her career or cut it short prematurely.

Lonesome Highway is the 11th in the Violet Darger series of thrillers by author duo Tim McBain and LT Vargus. This newest case takes place only a few weeks after the events of When Darkness Falls and Darger and Loshak have retuned to their respective homes for a little down time. But this is not ever long-lived and with Darger still on the mend from her time in the Alaskan wilderness the duo hit the open road destined for Big Jon’s truck stop in rural North Carolina. Arriving shortly after the discovery of the body, the pair get the rare opportunity to view the scene as is and even interview some onlookers and witnesses, including the maintenance worker who discovered the victim. As their various suspects are identified, the duo are challenged with tracking down and interviewing the suspects in various locations. For me, this was a brilliant approach with the pair having to track down truckers in various locations and bring the interview to them rather than having them brought to the station. The various dynamics and personalities of each person they spoke with had me following along with my own favorites for who the culprit could be, but true to form with this pair all is never what is seems and many times the culprit is hiding in plain sight. Where the prior case in When Darkness Falls was a slow build, Lonesome Highway is a case that moves at a breakneck speed from beginning to end. With the entire plot line spanning less than a week there is barely time to breathe which I feel adds to the already tense aspect of the story.

If you are already a fan of this series, Lonesome Highway will not disappoint and if you have never read a Darger book before this would be a good one to start with. While technically part of a larger series of books the installments are structured in such a way that each book also works well as a stand-alone offering. McBain and Vargus have another successful hit on their hands and Agents Darger and Loshak show no signs of stopping soon. Here’s hoping that the pair returns for another case sooner rather than later.
Profile Image for Dawn Myers.
1,299 reviews2 followers
October 31, 2022
This was definitely an interesting story. L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain did something a little different than they usually do, they gave me a whole slew of suspects. I had a hard time figuring out who the culprit is. My first instinct was part right. These two authors threw a really big surprise at the end. If I'm not mistaken the very end reminded me of Dead End Girl, it wasn't exactly but similar. I give L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain two thumbs up for keeping in the dark most of the book. In my opinion these two authors know how to write mystery and suspense. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat turning the pages. I personally loved the book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader's copy.
17 reviews
November 5, 2022
Audacious reading!

There is a reason why this talented storytelling duo remains at the top of my favorites list. As always, their words seem to flow as flawlessly as that of a master painter who effortlessly applies layer upon layer, in just that perfect combination of form and nature; daresay 'substance', as they contrive to complete their masterpiece. Not only that, but it is one hell of a good read, too! I also very much enjoyed the totally irrelevant piece of comedic relief in the scene of 'whack a doodle' ~ which seriously makes me wonder which of the authors came up with this bit... Though, on second thought, I suppose was revelant, as it sure as heck did cut down on the suspects, heh heh!
Profile Image for Jim.
121 reviews2 followers
October 14, 2023
My first Darger book. It was okay - I'm assuming by starting so far into a series I've missed out on a lot of backstory, but the novel is self contained.

The plot - a string of murders likely Involving a trucker - means a deep dive into truck stops, driver life, "lot lizards", road food, and investigative process. Some in laborious detail. For me it took a while for the pace to really get going but the last third of the book propelled me towards the end. I did guess the killer early on but read enough of these and the patterns start to glow like SuDoku squares.

I didnt love it, but not a bad book. I can see why there are so many Darger books. I will likely try another.
Profile Image for Wayward Readers Book Blog.
556 reviews14 followers
December 7, 2022
Profiling class or crime fiction

This book can be read as a stand alone, however, those jumping in now will miss important character arcs. Darger’s character in particular shifts from having a smartass, snarky edge (which was one of the big draws to these novels) to having issues with confidence and being more “well-behaved”. The highly character driven novels that once termed with witty banter and suspense, seem to now be driven by the crimes/criminal profiling. And while the lessons are interesting, it is far too educational for a crime fiction novel.
Profile Image for Mark Fidler.
246 reviews2 followers
November 19, 2023
This is a police procedural, where there is no interesting backstory with the investigators. And the novel consisted of an interview with one potential serial killer after the next. We did not really get to know these characters, and it didn't matter to me whether A, B, C, or D actually committed the crime. I am guessing that the readers who liked this have followed the series and had a connection to characters from previous books. To me, this did not stand on its own as a novel.
5 reviews
February 5, 2025
Who dunnit was not plausible

I enjoy this series quite a bit. And the premise of the story was also good. However, when the primary killer was revealed, there was no explanation really as to why that person was motivated to kill. There was no explanation of their pathology. And no breadcrumbs to look back on that we should have caught which pointed to the person’s darker self.

In essence, it felt like a cheap trick. Still worth reading just not as satisfying.
Profile Image for Carla Black.
339 reviews84 followers
March 25, 2025
This one was a bit crazier. Agents Darger and Loshak are after a truck driver. A serial killer truck driver. Several bodies have been found stretched down a 1,500 mile Worth of Interstate on the east coast. They keep narrowing down the suspect field as they go. When they get too close someone kidnaps Agent Darger and tries to harm her. Will Loshak get to her time? You have to read to find out. I highly recommend this book and this series.
Profile Image for C. Awbrey.
12 reviews
October 25, 2022
A freeway serial killer is adding to the body count without mercy. Everyone is suspect and more than a probability.

Drug addicted silver bullets driving the interstate amusing themselves with inner demons and justifying their many lusts. It’s the way of the over the road truckers.

Darger and Loshak are back together in this series of FBI profiler’s and their ability to look into the mind of someone capable of being a serial murderer.
824 reviews7 followers
November 20, 2022
very entertaining

Step in to the world of long haul tractor trailer drivers. Darger and Loshak are into a triple homicide in the Carolinas. One body dumped in the lot of a truck stop, 2 bodies in a cheap motel close by. They were beaten, stabbed multiple times and choked out. What will be the body count be before he is stopped? More than Bundy or Gacy or hopefully less.
Profile Image for Barb.
939 reviews56 followers
November 25, 2022
I think I said the last book in the series was the best one yet, but this one was even better. The murders are gory but it’s written in a way that I don’t feel like I need brain bleach after reading. The forensic science and comparisons to other serial killer cases are really interesting. Also, I loved getting a glimpse of Darger’s home life. Looking forward to the next book!
369 reviews3 followers
January 14, 2023
What a Story!

Violet Darger is an FBI agent on a case involving disappearance and murder of prostitutes who work at truck stops. At first, they think it is a local murder only, until there seem to be similar cases along RT 95. As they go thru the files, they come up with a list of suspects., and begin interviewing them. Very thrilling and hard to put down.
65 reviews
October 13, 2023
Can't read her next book

I almost didn't finish this...too much grossed me out, too much over drama, too much physically happening. I think I will read some kind of romance novel or perhaps light and funny....I can't take Violet any more. Already had downloaded next book, but I just don't like her anymore....
38 reviews
December 1, 2023
This is the first book in this series I have listened to. I don’t feel like I had missed anything coming in at the middle. Also don’t feel like I am missing anything if I don’t listen to any more of this series. Nothing objectionable. A very solid story written well enough. but the characters don’t feel very distinct. Nothing special about this at all.
11 reviews
February 27, 2025
Best Darger book yet!

This book held my interest from start to finish. I thought I had it all figured out at least five times. Great misdirects and plot twisters! Loved the banter. Read the whole thing in the space of a day and night. I've been reading the book series in chronological order and this is my favorite Darger story to date!

Profile Image for Gene.
797 reviews8 followers
September 30, 2025
Good read. Same crime scene type, and stereotypes as usual. Still an interesting story and not unbelievable considering what government can do with surveillance equipment. I was nearing the end of the book, around 85% in and realized Darger had not yet been knocked out, then on that same page, she was. In her usual solitary, no hope of backup way of working. All works out well in the end.
556 reviews1 follower
October 7, 2025
Another good case.

Back to doing what Darger and Loshak do best. Knocking up profiles on the fly. This is what needed to happen here with bodies of "lot lizards" and truckers in the spotlight.
A good enjoyable read and I did not expect the ending in the swamp. Not detracting from the story in any way, but it caught me out.
Profile Image for Vicki Gilbertson.
420 reviews11 followers
November 4, 2022
Truck stops and Loshak trying to get his damn BBQ Ribs. I think it was just a little bizarre as so much happened in a short amount of time. Violet of course kicking ass and taking names. Come on all the Police, State Troopers and FBI all playing nice, crazy and awesome 👌
9 reviews
November 5, 2022
This Book Really Had Me zGoing

About one of the creepiest books I've read in awhile. Had me squirming and going crazy trying to figure out who the culprit was. A VERY descriptive read not for the faint-hearted. Give me more Darger and Loshak, please!
Profile Image for Debbie Natsch.
9 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2022
nothing new here

I feel a little ripped off. I normally love these books- but I didn’t care about the victims or the parade of suspects that I couldn’t keep straight. Also, a little tired of every book coming down to our heroine alone with the ‘real’ killer.
50 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2022
Amazing!

These 2 authors are a force to be reckoned with! I love the Darger/Loshak books but this one had even me stunned! Fabulous read for anyone interested in this genre. I highly recommend this writing duo!
Profile Image for William (Mr. Bill) Turner.
434 reviews7 followers
November 11, 2022
Lonesome Highway - very good crime thriller

Always good crime thrillers when Darger & Loshak team up. This book discusses a serious crime where you women are taken advantage of often resulting in death or sex trafficking.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1 review
November 13, 2022
Feel like this one was not as well-fleshed-out as some of the others in this series… especially the last 2 I thought were very good. It felt maybe a little rushed and not detailed enough in the pursuit of trying to give us a twist.
104 reviews
November 16, 2022
What a thriller

McBain and Vargus just keep getting better and better! Definitely one of their best. Not quite as gory as some of the other Darger thrillers but an excellent who-done-it! Enjoy
Profile Image for LeAnn.
320 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2023
A good series

Somehow I knew from the beginning
who would be there in the end. Interesting twists and turns on the way. I appreciated the look at interviewing different suspects. I will read others by these authors.
3 reviews
January 25, 2023
As with the other Violet Danger books, Lonesome Highway is an excellent read. Also, as with the other violent Darger books, I have deducted one star because of the filthy language. To me, this is simply unnecessary.
399 reviews
February 24, 2023
Fantastic ending

Although I guessed correctly about the perp I enjoyed this very much. It reminded me of Ben Porter in False Assurances, Threat Bias, Subversive Addiction and Vital Deception. Can’t wait for the 5th book Epic Injustice to come out this spring!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews

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