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Detective Jack Brody #1
The Devil's House
A killer, silent for nineteen years. Now he’s back.
Nineteen years ago, three teens were murdered at a summer party in sleepy little Meadowstown. One of their friends was convicted of the murders and has been in a mental hospital ever since.
But now items are turning up which could have only been taken from the victims on that fateful night. Is it possible there was more than one killer? Or has the wrong person been convicted?
Det Sergeant Jack Brody of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit is sent to investigate. And comes up against apathetic local police who are determined to resist his every move.
Brody isn’t easily deterred. He pushes hard and becomes convinced the murderer is still out there, is stirring back to life, preparing to choose another victim. Brody summons the rest of his team, and they race to find the killer before he or she can strike again.
But this little town has some very dark secrets, and as Brody begins to uncover the horrifying truth, he realises that no-one here is safe, that even he and his team may be in terrible danger…
The Devil’s House – the first in the gripping crime series featuring DS Jack Brody.
Nineteen years ago, three teens were murdered at a summer party in sleepy little Meadowstown. One of their friends was convicted of the murders and has been in a mental hospital ever since.
But now items are turning up which could have only been taken from the victims on that fateful night. Is it possible there was more than one killer? Or has the wrong person been convicted?
Det Sergeant Jack Brody of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit is sent to investigate. And comes up against apathetic local police who are determined to resist his every move.
Brody isn’t easily deterred. He pushes hard and becomes convinced the murderer is still out there, is stirring back to life, preparing to choose another victim. Brody summons the rest of his team, and they race to find the killer before he or she can strike again.
But this little town has some very dark secrets, and as Brody begins to uncover the horrifying truth, he realises that no-one here is safe, that even he and his team may be in terrible danger…
The Devil’s House – the first in the gripping crime series featuring DS Jack Brody.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2022
193 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 30, 2023
Dark and malign!
A group of teenagers, out for an illicit night of booze, drugs and sex, are found murdered. However, there is one survivor, covered in blood and unable to recall what had happened during that fateful night. The local police were convinced they had their man and did not bother investigating further. The suspect then suffered a complete mental breakdown, pleaded guilty to the murders and was committed to a mental health institution. Ten years later personal items belonging to the victims were posted to the bereaved families. Was there an accomplice to the original murders or had the wrong man been convicted? Regional murder squad detectives were despatched to take over the investigation from the lazy and generally incompetent local police. This was a real page turner of a book with a well constructed plot, believable characters and an explosive finale. If you enjoy dark and violent thrillers then this is the book for you.
A group of teenagers, out for an illicit night of booze, drugs and sex, are found murdered. However, there is one survivor, covered in blood and unable to recall what had happened during that fateful night. The local police were convinced they had their man and did not bother investigating further. The suspect then suffered a complete mental breakdown, pleaded guilty to the murders and was committed to a mental health institution. Ten years later personal items belonging to the victims were posted to the bereaved families. Was there an accomplice to the original murders or had the wrong man been convicted? Regional murder squad detectives were despatched to take over the investigation from the lazy and generally incompetent local police. This was a real page turner of a book with a well constructed plot, believable characters and an explosive finale. If you enjoy dark and violent thrillers then this is the book for you.
November 13, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'The Devil's House' by J.M O'rourke.
Read and reviewed for ZooLoos Book Tours, NetGalley, Inkubator Books and J.M O'rourke.
Publication date 30th October 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Detective Jack Brody' series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its absolutely fantastic, eye-catching and unique cover and its intriguing synopsis. I was also intrigued by the title 'The Devil's House'. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Inkubator. I have yet to read a book published by Inkubator Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 39 chapters and an epilogue . The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Ireland 🇮🇪
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist being Detective Sergeant Jack Brody. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
This is the first book in the 'Detective Jack Brody' series and what an absolutely fantastic start to what promises to be a gripping series. It started off really fast with a really gripping and gritty first couple of chapters then the pace slowed but then it picked up again and took you on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, tension and crime and kept me on the edge of my seat. The storyline was definitely unique and once I got stuck in I couldn't stop turning the pages. It is packed with murder, corruption, lies, tension, suspense and ticks every box you could ask for in a gripping crime thriller. I love the fact that it is set in Ireland and the author really sets the scene for the reader making it feel like you are with Jack throughout. I was absolutely gobsmacked by the actions of certain characters and had to bite my tounge on several occasions to stop me screaming at the book. I love the fact that the ending is tied up perfectly so there are no loose ends left, one of my pet hates in books. The detailed police procedures were intriguing as it shows the difference between policies in the UK and I also enjoyed the big city, little village differences. I also enjoyed that you don't find out what happened on the night of the Murders straight away and it keeps you guessing throughout. The killer was somebody who you would never have suspected which is always good when reading any police/crime thriller.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too. Thankfully this wasn't a problem in this book.
It wasn't just the storyline I was completely invested in but also the characters. I really liked Brody and thought that he worked excellently with his team and made a great leader. It would have been nice to see him stay in Meadowstown or to see Kinsella join his team but you don't always get what you want in life so why should a book be any different? All of the characters were strong and believable. Sadly the corruption in the force is also extremely believable. I couldn't stand Ian Patton who was a vile and corrupt Inspector and I'm glad to see that justice was done. The majority of the police force at Meadowsfield were corrupt and lazy but Patton was one of the worse and how he treated Kimsella was disgusting. I loved seeing how Kinsella grew in strength and what she did to Patton was perfect Payback. I would love to visit MeadowsTown again in this series to see how she gets on. The way Patton,
Superintendent Michael Foley and Chief Superintendent Niland constantly used 'blowback repellent' (absolutely loved this term) and passed the buck constantly was pathetic. My heart went out to Harry Macken and Edward D'Arcy. The way Harry was scared of a certain person and what happened to him even after he tried to help was heartbreaking. What happened to Edward D'Arcy is also heartbreaking but I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so you'll just have to pick up a copy and see for yourselves!!
An absolutely fantastic start to what promises to be an addictive series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book which will hopefully be soon!! Congratulations J.M O'rourke on a fantastic page turner and here's to your next success 🥂!!
Overall an absolutely page turning and explosive start to what promises to be an addictive series.
Genres covered in this book include Psychological Thriller, Irish Crime , Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, Police Thriller, Police Procedural, Hard-boiled Mysteries, Psychological Fiction and Noir Crime amongst others.
280 pages
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle, free on kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon at time of review which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheDevilsHouse #JMORourke #DetectiveJackBrody #InkubatorBooks #Inkubator #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ZooLoosBookTours #NetGalley
@JMORourke @Bookworm86 @bookworm1986 @ZooLoosBT @inkubatorbooks @Inkubator @Netgalley
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Review for 'The Devil's House' by J.M O'rourke.
Read and reviewed for ZooLoos Book Tours, NetGalley, Inkubator Books and J.M O'rourke.
Publication date 30th October 2022.
This is the first book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in the 'Detective Jack Brody' series.
I was originally drawn to this book by its absolutely fantastic, eye-catching and unique cover and its intriguing synopsis. I was also intrigued by the title 'The Devil's House'. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Inkubator. I have yet to read a book published by Inkubator Books that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue, 39 chapters and an epilogue . The chapters are short to medium in length so easy to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Ireland 🇮🇪
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist being Detective Sergeant Jack Brody. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
This book is extremely well written with vivid descriptions that really set the scene and kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover and synopsis suited the storyline perfectly.
This is the first book in the 'Detective Jack Brody' series and what an absolutely fantastic start to what promises to be a gripping series. It started off really fast with a really gripping and gritty first couple of chapters then the pace slowed but then it picked up again and took you on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, tension and crime and kept me on the edge of my seat. The storyline was definitely unique and once I got stuck in I couldn't stop turning the pages. It is packed with murder, corruption, lies, tension, suspense and ticks every box you could ask for in a gripping crime thriller. I love the fact that it is set in Ireland and the author really sets the scene for the reader making it feel like you are with Jack throughout. I was absolutely gobsmacked by the actions of certain characters and had to bite my tounge on several occasions to stop me screaming at the book. I love the fact that the ending is tied up perfectly so there are no loose ends left, one of my pet hates in books. The detailed police procedures were intriguing as it shows the difference between policies in the UK and I also enjoyed the big city, little village differences. I also enjoyed that you don't find out what happened on the night of the Murders straight away and it keeps you guessing throughout. The killer was somebody who you would never have suspected which is always good when reading any police/crime thriller.
It is always worrying when starting a new series as you have no idea who the characters are. It is very important for me to bond with not only the lead protagonists but also any characters that may make repeat appearances during the series too. Thankfully this wasn't a problem in this book.
It wasn't just the storyline I was completely invested in but also the characters. I really liked Brody and thought that he worked excellently with his team and made a great leader. It would have been nice to see him stay in Meadowstown or to see Kinsella join his team but you don't always get what you want in life so why should a book be any different? All of the characters were strong and believable. Sadly the corruption in the force is also extremely believable. I couldn't stand Ian Patton who was a vile and corrupt Inspector and I'm glad to see that justice was done. The majority of the police force at Meadowsfield were corrupt and lazy but Patton was one of the worse and how he treated Kimsella was disgusting. I loved seeing how Kinsella grew in strength and what she did to Patton was perfect Payback. I would love to visit MeadowsTown again in this series to see how she gets on. The way Patton,
Superintendent Michael Foley and Chief Superintendent Niland constantly used 'blowback repellent' (absolutely loved this term) and passed the buck constantly was pathetic. My heart went out to Harry Macken and Edward D'Arcy. The way Harry was scared of a certain person and what happened to him even after he tried to help was heartbreaking. What happened to Edward D'Arcy is also heartbreaking but I won't say anymore as I don't want to spoil it for future readers so you'll just have to pick up a copy and see for yourselves!!
An absolutely fantastic start to what promises to be an addictive series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book which will hopefully be soon!! Congratulations J.M O'rourke on a fantastic page turner and here's to your next success 🥂!!
Overall an absolutely page turning and explosive start to what promises to be an addictive series.
Genres covered in this book include Psychological Thriller, Irish Crime , Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, Police Thriller, Police Procedural, Hard-boiled Mysteries, Psychological Fiction and Noir Crime amongst others.
280 pages
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle, free on kindle unlimited and £9.99 in paperback via Amazon at time of review which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#TheDevilsHouse #JMORourke #DetectiveJackBrody #InkubatorBooks #Inkubator #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #ZooLoosBookTours #NetGalley
@JMORourke @Bookworm86 @bookworm1986 @ZooLoosBT @inkubatorbooks @Inkubator @Netgalley
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3...
https://mobile.twitter.com/kcmw86
November 10, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
The Devils House is the first book in a new crime fiction series. We follow Detectice Brody as he investigates a closed case from over a decade ago. Brody manages to re-open the closed case as new evidence begins to appear. A necklace clasp and trainer are sent to one of the parents of one of the murdered teenagers which leads Brody to believe the wring person was convicted of this horrific murder spree. Brody sets up at the police station who dealt with the murder investigation in a small town and has his work cut out for him for sure - the officers are lazy, corrupt and don't appreciate someone from outside treading on their toes.
I instantly liked Brodys character and his way of working the case. The ending was nicely tied up and makes you question how well you know those around you after a shock revelation of who the killer really was. I look forward to reading more of Brody in book two and will definitely be continuing this series.
The Devils House is the first book in a new crime fiction series. We follow Detectice Brody as he investigates a closed case from over a decade ago. Brody manages to re-open the closed case as new evidence begins to appear. A necklace clasp and trainer are sent to one of the parents of one of the murdered teenagers which leads Brody to believe the wring person was convicted of this horrific murder spree. Brody sets up at the police station who dealt with the murder investigation in a small town and has his work cut out for him for sure - the officers are lazy, corrupt and don't appreciate someone from outside treading on their toes.
I instantly liked Brodys character and his way of working the case. The ending was nicely tied up and makes you question how well you know those around you after a shock revelation of who the killer really was. I look forward to reading more of Brody in book two and will definitely be continuing this series.
November 12, 2022
This is the first book in the Detective Jack Brody series.... and I cannot wait to read more by this author!
The book was fast paced , it was gripping , it had characters that you invested in and it drew you back too it continuously. The way that the characters and setting is described makes it very easy to see the plot play out in your mind as you are reading it. The relationship between Jack and his team is one that I hope to enjoy in many more books , they gell together and made the book even more enjoyable !
The book was fast paced , it was gripping , it had characters that you invested in and it drew you back too it continuously. The way that the characters and setting is described makes it very easy to see the plot play out in your mind as you are reading it. The relationship between Jack and his team is one that I hope to enjoy in many more books , they gell together and made the book even more enjoyable !
January 20, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Great cover!
I thought this book was a thoroughly entertaining read! Well written and fast paced. The plot was intriguing, and kept me engaged throughout The characters varied and (mostly) likable. The setting interesting. I look forward to see what this author brings to the table in book two.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I thought this book was a thoroughly entertaining read! Well written and fast paced. The plot was intriguing, and kept me engaged throughout The characters varied and (mostly) likable. The setting interesting. I look forward to see what this author brings to the table in book two.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
October 7, 2022
Detective Jack Brody investigates a cold case of murdered teens at Devils House from 19 years ago. Evidence taken from the crime scene begins appearing. Was the wrong person convicted?
This was a great read and first book I’ve read by J.M. O’Rourke and I hope to read more. I give many thanks to NetGalley, Inkubator Books and J.M. O’Rourke for the chance to read this ARC!
This was a great read and first book I’ve read by J.M. O’Rourke and I hope to read more. I give many thanks to NetGalley, Inkubator Books and J.M. O’Rourke for the chance to read this ARC!
October 24, 2022
Finished reading: October 17th 2022
"Yes, of course I think he could be responsible. Anyone could be. Because we are all capable of the vilest of deeds, though the conditions just have to be right to bring it out in us, that latent aggression."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Inkubator Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
January 19, 2024
I found this a difficult book to read , not sure if that was because of the different processes in Ireland. Overall all the strands were neatly tied up. What I really liked was the team working together and as a result looking forward to book 2 to see how they develop.
I was given an advance copy by booksprout but the review is entirely my own
I was given an advance copy by booksprout but the review is entirely my own
February 12, 2023
Another hit
J.M. O’Rourke has written other novels under his real name, and while I was fortunate enough to beta read some of those other books, this one was as good as any of the others.
One of my favorite expressions this author uses is “blowback repellant” and excellent term the describes management in law enforcement. I also liked that he bucked the current trend of killing everyone off, and let some people survive.
J.M. O’Rourke has written other novels under his real name, and while I was fortunate enough to beta read some of those other books, this one was as good as any of the others.
One of my favorite expressions this author uses is “blowback repellant” and excellent term the describes management in law enforcement. I also liked that he bucked the current trend of killing everyone off, and let some people survive.
March 14, 2023
DS Jack Brody of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit at Garda HQ in Phoenix Park, Dublin has been asked to look into a piece of evidence that has recently come to light.
Earlier he received a clasp from a piece of jewelry, allegedly belonging to the victim of a murder that took place in a cottage in the woods ten years ago, where a bunch of kids was partying and three of them were found murdered. They call the incident—which happened over a decade ago—the Devil’s house murders.
The cottage once belonged to a man named Mick Dempsey who later sold his property to the Forestry Company.
According to Anne Rispin, mother of one of the victims, Jenny Rispin, Anne received the clasp in the post the week before last. She said the clasp was from a necklace Jenny wore on the night she was murdered. Other items mentioned belonging to the victims were missing too.
When DS Jack Brody brings this evidence to his boss DCS Tom Maguire’s attention, Tom dismisses him, telling him to deal with current matters seeing as it’s a closed case because one of the kids—Edward D’Arcy—was already convicted of the murder.
Soon after Anne finds a box 📦 containing her daughter’s missing Nike shoe 👟 on her doorstep and immediately calls DS Brody.
DCS Tom sends Jack to Meadowstown where the murders took place to look into the murder case. He’s later joined by his team, Detective Garda Steven Voyle, Nicola Considine, and Garda Mart Sheahan, along with Garda Nuala Kinsella with Meadowstown police to assist.
After an interview with Edward D”Arcy—at the mental institution where he’s been committed—DS Brody is convinced Edward didn’t murder his friends and then sets off to find out who the real killer is.
Earlier he received a clasp from a piece of jewelry, allegedly belonging to the victim of a murder that took place in a cottage in the woods ten years ago, where a bunch of kids was partying and three of them were found murdered. They call the incident—which happened over a decade ago—the Devil’s house murders.
The cottage once belonged to a man named Mick Dempsey who later sold his property to the Forestry Company.
According to Anne Rispin, mother of one of the victims, Jenny Rispin, Anne received the clasp in the post the week before last. She said the clasp was from a necklace Jenny wore on the night she was murdered. Other items mentioned belonging to the victims were missing too.
When DS Jack Brody brings this evidence to his boss DCS Tom Maguire’s attention, Tom dismisses him, telling him to deal with current matters seeing as it’s a closed case because one of the kids—Edward D’Arcy—was already convicted of the murder.
Soon after Anne finds a box 📦 containing her daughter’s missing Nike shoe 👟 on her doorstep and immediately calls DS Brody.
DCS Tom sends Jack to Meadowstown where the murders took place to look into the murder case. He’s later joined by his team, Detective Garda Steven Voyle, Nicola Considine, and Garda Mart Sheahan, along with Garda Nuala Kinsella with Meadowstown police to assist.
After an interview with Edward D”Arcy—at the mental institution where he’s been committed—DS Brody is convinced Edward didn’t murder his friends and then sets off to find out who the real killer is.
December 31, 2022
Thank you NetGalley, Inkubator Books and J.M O'rourke for my ARC ecopy of this beauty!
This is my first read for this author, and it's the first in a series I expect will be amazing!
I was drawn by the synopsis and obviously the cover, as well as a new author to me, and I immediately requested it on Netgalley, and I had the pleasure to have received a copy, and I absolutely loved it!
This page turner was set in Ireland, and told in third person POV, starring detective Jack Brody. It was so well written, with amazing detailed descriptions, it enticed me at every point, and delivered the synopsis perfectly.
I love the anticipation, suspense and the entire vibe of this mystery thriller that kept me at the edge of my seat!
I love that it made me feel like I was with the main character, in that same location, and made me scream at the twists that I threw my way, and experience thrilling emotions!
Side note, when the murderer was revealed, I audibly gasped, and the reaction of the people around me forced me to tell them the story of the book, which doesn't happen often, I'm not exaggerating, because of my reaction, I had to tell the story of the book to three grown adults who never asked me what I'm reading, just throwing that out there for you!
This is my first read for this author, and it's the first in a series I expect will be amazing!
I was drawn by the synopsis and obviously the cover, as well as a new author to me, and I immediately requested it on Netgalley, and I had the pleasure to have received a copy, and I absolutely loved it!
This page turner was set in Ireland, and told in third person POV, starring detective Jack Brody. It was so well written, with amazing detailed descriptions, it enticed me at every point, and delivered the synopsis perfectly.
I love the anticipation, suspense and the entire vibe of this mystery thriller that kept me at the edge of my seat!
I love that it made me feel like I was with the main character, in that same location, and made me scream at the twists that I threw my way, and experience thrilling emotions!
Side note, when the murderer was revealed, I audibly gasped, and the reaction of the people around me forced me to tell them the story of the book, which doesn't happen often, I'm not exaggerating, because of my reaction, I had to tell the story of the book to three grown adults who never asked me what I'm reading, just throwing that out there for you!
December 19, 2022
Ten years after the murder of three teens, and the guilty admission and verdict of another, items connected with the murders start showing up. The convicted murderer has been locked away, so who is sending them and why now?
As the DS from Dublin swoops into this small town and discovers the police department there is horribly incompetent, he starts to have doubts that the man behind bars was really the killer.
As an American reading this, I had to look up a lot of the words because I was unfamiliar with some of the words in everyday usage in Ireland. I learned a lot while reading this, which is why I like reading books from all over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As the DS from Dublin swoops into this small town and discovers the police department there is horribly incompetent, he starts to have doubts that the man behind bars was really the killer.
As an American reading this, I had to look up a lot of the words because I was unfamiliar with some of the words in everyday usage in Ireland. I learned a lot while reading this, which is why I like reading books from all over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2023
This is my first book that I have read and enjoyed by this Author so much so I brought the second book called Time of Death congratulations on a well written book.
December 19, 2022
This is a great read
November 28, 2022
I loved the cold case reactivated aspect of this story. I also thought it was interesting that the killer didn't revert back to his killing ways, but found another way to fulfill that need. And the person who was trying to help the police from the shadows: trying to get the case reopened so the real killer gets caught and subsequently stops his other crimes. That man could have done more (told the police directly), but it also felt real since after so much time someone wouldn't want to get more involved (and get charged for knowing but not doing anything!). The beginning was a little slow as we connected past to present but then it picked up and never stopped!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2023
A gruesome triple murder. The murderer confessed and is safely inside a mental hospital for the criminally insane. So why some ten years later this crime has come back to haunt one of the victim's families ? New/ old evidence has popped up on a doorstep. D.S. Jack Brody is tasked with reviewing the case. Author J.M. O'Rourke spins a very interesting yarn in this first Jack Brody series book. I really enjoyed this read. Sharp characters who are well fleshed out. The villains themselves are well hidden inside the plot. Five stars for this must read. Book two in this series is up soon. Check it out.
November 26, 2022
Review
Really enjoyed this book good set of characters both good and bad. Didn't realise I had read this authors previous books
Really enjoyed this book good set of characters both good and bad. Didn't realise I had read this authors previous books
November 20, 2022
This is the good start for a new police procedural series set in Ireland. It's quite slow at beginning but I was hooked and thoroughly enjoyed the second part which is faster.
The solid mystery kept me guessing and I liked the characters
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
The solid mystery kept me guessing and I liked the characters
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
November 13, 2022
Ten years previously three teenagers are found dead. The boy who has been convicted of their murder is found with the murder weapon and covered in blood, but he doesn't remember anything.
Now the missing items from the scene are being sent to the victims' families, and Det Sergeant Jack Brody must question if they have the wrong man.
This is the first novel in a new detective series, based in Ireland; and one which I will be adding to my list to continue. O'Rourke gives us short chapters full of intrigue and suspense from page one. I found myself reading away absorbed in the narrative and not noticing the time.
I was also suspicious of the characters that I trusted no one except DS Brody, this just made the narrative have more impact and continued to keep me in suspense. This novel will have any reader wanting more and I look forward to the next installment.
Now the missing items from the scene are being sent to the victims' families, and Det Sergeant Jack Brody must question if they have the wrong man.
This is the first novel in a new detective series, based in Ireland; and one which I will be adding to my list to continue. O'Rourke gives us short chapters full of intrigue and suspense from page one. I found myself reading away absorbed in the narrative and not noticing the time.
I was also suspicious of the characters that I trusted no one except DS Brody, this just made the narrative have more impact and continued to keep me in suspense. This novel will have any reader wanting more and I look forward to the next installment.
November 4, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley and Inkubator Books for an advance copy of The Devil’s House, the first novel to feature Detective Sergeant Jack Brody of the Garda’s Major Crimes Investigation Unit in Dublin.
Ten years ago in Measdowstown, County Galway three teenagers were brutally murdered in a shack they called the Devil’s house. One of their friends, Edward D’Arcy was convicted and remains incarcerated. Now items belonging to the victims are turning up, so Jack Brody is sent to investigate and quickly comes to believe that Edward D’Arcy was wrongly convicted.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil’s House, which is an absorbing start to a new series. It is mostly told from the investigative point of view with the odd chapter giving an insight into the unidentified killer’s thoughts and actions. These I found a bit more interesting than most he doesn’t give much hint of a motive and his actions cover several crimes.
This is a fast paced novel, whether Jack is ratcheting up his investigation or sorting out the indolence and poor attitude of the local Meadowstown station. He’s like a whirlwind- he tired me out with his energy and can do spirit. Still, it means that the novel never flags. The plot is fairly standard - detective and team use every means possible to find a killer, culminating in an action packed showdown, so it’s the filler that matters and it’s good. There’s modern technology, profiling and good old fashioned shoe leather. I was glued to the pages, especially with Jack blowing through the incompetence of the locals as that was fun. This is not a realism based novel, but it’s entertaining and keeps the reader turning the pages. I’m looking forward to the next one.
The Devil’s House is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Ten years ago in Measdowstown, County Galway three teenagers were brutally murdered in a shack they called the Devil’s house. One of their friends, Edward D’Arcy was convicted and remains incarcerated. Now items belonging to the victims are turning up, so Jack Brody is sent to investigate and quickly comes to believe that Edward D’Arcy was wrongly convicted.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Devil’s House, which is an absorbing start to a new series. It is mostly told from the investigative point of view with the odd chapter giving an insight into the unidentified killer’s thoughts and actions. These I found a bit more interesting than most he doesn’t give much hint of a motive and his actions cover several crimes.
This is a fast paced novel, whether Jack is ratcheting up his investigation or sorting out the indolence and poor attitude of the local Meadowstown station. He’s like a whirlwind- he tired me out with his energy and can do spirit. Still, it means that the novel never flags. The plot is fairly standard - detective and team use every means possible to find a killer, culminating in an action packed showdown, so it’s the filler that matters and it’s good. There’s modern technology, profiling and good old fashioned shoe leather. I was glued to the pages, especially with Jack blowing through the incompetence of the locals as that was fun. This is not a realism based novel, but it’s entertaining and keeps the reader turning the pages. I’m looking forward to the next one.
The Devil’s House is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 10, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book and getting to know Jack Brody and all the team members. I can't wait for your next book.
November 6, 2022
great start to a new series
What a great start to this new series. I can see Sergeant Jack Brody becoming a favourite and I loved his relationship with his team. O’Rourke writes well, there’s a great sense of place, the characters, good and bad, are well depicted. I’m looking forward to the next story.
What a great start to this new series. I can see Sergeant Jack Brody becoming a favourite and I loved his relationship with his team. O’Rourke writes well, there’s a great sense of place, the characters, good and bad, are well depicted. I’m looking forward to the next story.
November 1, 2022
*Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in return for a honest review.
3.5⭐️
The Devil's House follows Detective Brody as he tries to reopen and solve a murder case that happened over 19 years ago. Evidence is being sent to one of the murder victims parents, to which, the evidence ends up in Brody's hands. He is determined to look into and solve the case. But unbeknownst to him, he's going to be pulled into a corrupted police department that only thinks okf their reputation and wants to see him fail.
This book took a slow start and didn't start picking up until around the 50% mark, but with that being said, the plot and detective work was interesting enough to keep me reading. The reveal came out of left field, but also made the story believable in a way that makes you question your neighbors. The Killer was someone completely unpredictable which made this detective thriller scary.
I do think this novel could have given more explanation about the victims and the killer, rather than focusing so much on how tough Brody was. It was apparent from the beginning that Brody was someone to not mess with, it wasn't needed to be reminded of it the entirety of the book.
3.5⭐️
The Devil's House follows Detective Brody as he tries to reopen and solve a murder case that happened over 19 years ago. Evidence is being sent to one of the murder victims parents, to which, the evidence ends up in Brody's hands. He is determined to look into and solve the case. But unbeknownst to him, he's going to be pulled into a corrupted police department that only thinks okf their reputation and wants to see him fail.
This book took a slow start and didn't start picking up until around the 50% mark, but with that being said, the plot and detective work was interesting enough to keep me reading. The reveal came out of left field, but also made the story believable in a way that makes you question your neighbors. The Killer was someone completely unpredictable which made this detective thriller scary.
I do think this novel could have given more explanation about the victims and the killer, rather than focusing so much on how tough Brody was. It was apparent from the beginning that Brody was someone to not mess with, it wasn't needed to be reminded of it the entirety of the book.
November 10, 2022
Book 1 of a new series featuring Detective Sergeant Jack Brady of the Major Crimes Investigation Unit of the Garda Siochana (Irish Police Force). I love a good police procedural and this is one. I liked the use of local colloquialisms, my partner is Irish so I had a ‘reference dictionary’ to hand, but I can see that some might query some of the narrative. A very well written fast paced police procedural with plenty of twists and turns.
Briefly, 10 years ago there was a vicious killing of 3 teenagers in Meadowstown in the West of Ireland. A fourth teenager admitted his guilt and was committed to a Mental Institution. However, with new concerns raised Brady is sent from Dublin to investigate. What he finds is a police station mired in laziness, misogyny and a complete failure to service the community. Calling on his own team Brady is convinced that the real killer is still out there.
This is a really good read. I loved the way Jack dealt with the inept police in Meadowstown and the detailed police procedures. The writer has used his knowledge of the Gardai to good effect in what is an extremely clever police procedural thriller with an explosive ending. I look forward to book 2.
Briefly, 10 years ago there was a vicious killing of 3 teenagers in Meadowstown in the West of Ireland. A fourth teenager admitted his guilt and was committed to a Mental Institution. However, with new concerns raised Brady is sent from Dublin to investigate. What he finds is a police station mired in laziness, misogyny and a complete failure to service the community. Calling on his own team Brady is convinced that the real killer is still out there.
This is a really good read. I loved the way Jack dealt with the inept police in Meadowstown and the detailed police procedures. The writer has used his knowledge of the Gardai to good effect in what is an extremely clever police procedural thriller with an explosive ending. I look forward to book 2.
October 19, 2022
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the concept of this book. Years before a series of grisly murders were committed and a teenager wakes up covered in blood with the knife. As far as the police were concerned it was an open and shut case. However then items that vanished from the original crime scenes start to be sent to the victims...
The book deals a lot with police procedures and particularly police incompetence and corruption. It focuses on detective Jack Brody who is brought in to reinvestigate the case against the wishes of the hostile local Meadowstown force. The book was engrossing and kept me interested through all the twists and turns of the investigation.
My only slight quibble was that whilst the ending was action packed the motives and pyschology of the killer and his background weren't really explained or explored so I was left feeling slightly frustrated.
That said it was a very enjoyable read and there is definitely a lot of room for further development of the characters in other cases and I look forward to reading them.
I loved the concept of this book. Years before a series of grisly murders were committed and a teenager wakes up covered in blood with the knife. As far as the police were concerned it was an open and shut case. However then items that vanished from the original crime scenes start to be sent to the victims...
The book deals a lot with police procedures and particularly police incompetence and corruption. It focuses on detective Jack Brody who is brought in to reinvestigate the case against the wishes of the hostile local Meadowstown force. The book was engrossing and kept me interested through all the twists and turns of the investigation.
My only slight quibble was that whilst the ending was action packed the motives and pyschology of the killer and his background weren't really explained or explored so I was left feeling slightly frustrated.
That said it was a very enjoyable read and there is definitely a lot of room for further development of the characters in other cases and I look forward to reading them.
October 28, 2022
I enjoy reading the first book in a new series. The Devil's House introduces Jack Brody, a DS in Ireland's Major Crimes unit. Jack is tasked to reopen a case when items taken from a notorious crime scene begin appearing. Years ago, three teenagers were slaughtered at an abandoned house known as the devil's house and one of their friends was found guilty of their murders. But if the killer is in a mental hospital, how is he sending the victim's personal items to the families? Was the wrong man convicted or was there a partner? Jack faces hostility from the local detectives who first investigated the case, and deals with more than just a turf war. I thought O'Rourke did a good job of creating Jack's backstory to make him a fleshed-out character. I also read so many books set in England that it was nice to read one with an Irish setting and learn how their police departments are arranged. This was a good first book. Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for the ARC. The Devil's House releases Oct. 30.
November 6, 2022
This book followed the murder of three teenagers a decade before in a house known as the devils house the setting of the book which a 4th teenager and one of their friends, was currently serving a prison sentence for. Then items belonging to the vistims start to appear and Brody is the officer sent to investigate and in doing so decides that the person in prison Edward D'arcy is in there for a crime he didn't commit.
Sounds good right? and it really was I couldn't put it downand finished it in almost one sitting. It was fast paced and was full of police procedure, twists, turns and unpredictability.
If I had one negative and it is very small you got lots of glimpses into the police investigation whoch I love so thats not a problem, with some minor glimpses into the mind/motives of the unknown killer and I would have prefered more from the killers perspective which I found equally fascinating. However, this is only a very small thing and it definitely didn't stop me enjoying the book.
Sounds good right? and it really was I couldn't put it downand finished it in almost one sitting. It was fast paced and was full of police procedure, twists, turns and unpredictability.
If I had one negative and it is very small you got lots of glimpses into the police investigation whoch I love so thats not a problem, with some minor glimpses into the mind/motives of the unknown killer and I would have prefered more from the killers perspective which I found equally fascinating. However, this is only a very small thing and it definitely didn't stop me enjoying the book.
October 22, 2022
I found this a very enjoyable read. After some items turn up bearing the DNA of a deceased woman start turning up many years later, with the alleged killer already caught, DS Jack Brody is sent to Meadowstown to investigate.
It soon becomes clear that the local police are inept and Jack is by himself trying to figure things out with the aid of a female garda who seems to be out in the cold for some reason. I enjoyed the gradual confidence building of Kinsella's character but I wasn't too fond of the banter with Brody's team. A bit too snipy for my liking although I liked how Considine handled Patton.
The story felt more procedural than anything and wasn't particularly fast paced. However, it didn't detract from my enjoyment. I quite enjoy the methodical approach, it feels more realistic. All in all, a good start to a series and I look forward to reading the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It soon becomes clear that the local police are inept and Jack is by himself trying to figure things out with the aid of a female garda who seems to be out in the cold for some reason. I enjoyed the gradual confidence building of Kinsella's character but I wasn't too fond of the banter with Brody's team. A bit too snipy for my liking although I liked how Considine handled Patton.
The story felt more procedural than anything and wasn't particularly fast paced. However, it didn't detract from my enjoyment. I quite enjoy the methodical approach, it feels more realistic. All in all, a good start to a series and I look forward to reading the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2022
Ireland, policy procedural and detective with tough past.
Ten years ago, were committed a horrible crime. Three teens murdered and one convicted of a crime, even he did not remember anything. But who could have committed this crime if not him? And now it's time to find the truth.
It was new to me, because Ireland's policy investigations is different from American or others that I read before. It was great to know about all these differences.
Besides main investigation, I want to admit story about inner working in the police station. Misogyny, harassment, abuse. Nuala is boss. Loved her story.
Avoiding any spoilers, want to say that it was a dark reading. The main antagonist was totally representation of pure evil.
Waiting for the next Jack Brody's story.
Ten years ago, were committed a horrible crime. Three teens murdered and one convicted of a crime, even he did not remember anything. But who could have committed this crime if not him? And now it's time to find the truth.
It was new to me, because Ireland's policy investigations is different from American or others that I read before. It was great to know about all these differences.
Besides main investigation, I want to admit story about inner working in the police station. Misogyny, harassment, abuse. Nuala is boss. Loved her story.
Avoiding any spoilers, want to say that it was a dark reading. The main antagonist was totally representation of pure evil.
Waiting for the next Jack Brody's story.
October 31, 2022
This is the first book in a new series and the first time that I have read this author and will not be the last for sure. Nineteen years ago three teenagers were murdered at a party one summer in a small town. One of the friends of the three murdered kids was convicted of their murders and has been in a mental hospital for the last almost twenty years. Now all these years later items are turning up that could only have belonged to the victims. Did they convict the wrong person?? Were there more than one person involved?? Detective Brody of Major Crimes is sent to investigate and see if he can solve it. As the investigation progresses Brody is convinced the murderer is still on the loose. Can he solve it before anyone else meets the same fate?
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