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Jo Gunning #2
Gunning for Truth
Ex-Army Civil Affairs specialist and loner Jo Gunning is headed west, but she detours and finds herself in a small town in rural Alabama.
First, she runs afoul of local law enforcement, and then the owner of the local café asks Jo to find the truth about her nephew’s death. Jo could have moved on, but she’s not one to run when help is needed, so she begins asking questions. However, someone doesn’t like her poking around, and they’ll do anything to stop her from discovering secrets they want kept in the dark.
With enemies at every turn, it will take all of Jo’s resourcefulness to survive.
First, she runs afoul of local law enforcement, and then the owner of the local café asks Jo to find the truth about her nephew’s death. Jo could have moved on, but she’s not one to run when help is needed, so she begins asking questions. However, someone doesn’t like her poking around, and they’ll do anything to stop her from discovering secrets they want kept in the dark.
With enemies at every turn, it will take all of Jo’s resourcefulness to survive.
- GenresCrime
347 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2022
1156 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Renee Pawlish
113 books346 followersFrom the time she was ten and tried to write her own detective series in the fashion of the Hardy Boys, Renée Pawlish has been developing her craft. Along with creative writing classes, Renée studied great writers like Dashiell Hammett, Rex Stout, Stephen King, Sue Grafton and many more. Once Renée graduated from college, she began her first novel. Now, all these years later, she has penned numerous books in a variety of genres.
Renée was born in California, but has lived most of her life in Colorado. When she's not hiking, cycling, or chasing ballplayers for autographs, she is writing mysteries and thrillers. She also has some middle grade novels waiting to be published.
Renée loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world. She has also spent many summer days at her parents' cabin in the hills outside of Boulder, which was the inspiration for the setting of Taylor Crossing in her novel Nephilim: Genesis of Evil.
The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series
This Doesn't Happen In The Movies
Reel Estate Rip-off
The Nephilim Trilogy
Nephilim Genesis of Evil
Books Two and Three soon to be released
The Noah Winter YA Adventure Series
The Emerald Quest
Take Five
A short story collection that includes a Reed Ferguson tale.
The Sallie House: Exposing the Beast Within
A non-fiction book about one of the most haunted houses in America.
To learn more you can follow her on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/reneepawlish....
on her blog:
http://tobecomeawriter.wordpress.com/
on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/reneepawlish
Renée was born in California, but has lived most of her life in Colorado. When she's not hiking, cycling, or chasing ballplayers for autographs, she is writing mysteries and thrillers. She also has some middle grade novels waiting to be published.
Renée loves to travel and has visited numerous countries around the world. She has also spent many summer days at her parents' cabin in the hills outside of Boulder, which was the inspiration for the setting of Taylor Crossing in her novel Nephilim: Genesis of Evil.
The Reed Ferguson Mystery Series
This Doesn't Happen In The Movies
Reel Estate Rip-off
The Nephilim Trilogy
Nephilim Genesis of Evil
Books Two and Three soon to be released
The Noah Winter YA Adventure Series
The Emerald Quest
Take Five
A short story collection that includes a Reed Ferguson tale.
The Sallie House: Exposing the Beast Within
A non-fiction book about one of the most haunted houses in America.
To learn more you can follow her on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/reneepawlish....
on her blog:
http://tobecomeawriter.wordpress.com/
on Twitter:
http://twitter.com/reneepawlish
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 3, 2022
Review of Gunning for Truth by Renee Pawlish
In this story, Jo Gunning proves, once again, that she has the instinct, the training, the temperment and the daring to right what is wrong. This is the second in the series of Jo Gunning books. If you didn't read the first one, no worries. Each book stands alone very well, but if you want a real treat, read Gunning for Trouble AND Gunning for Truth. You will not regret it.
Jo has been traveling and ends up in a small town motel, only to hear a disturbance in the next room where a man is shouting at a woman. Jo knocks on the door to ask them to quiet down as it is 2:00 am. The man is drunk and tells Jo to go away and leave them alone, that what is transpiring is none of her business. Jo disagrees since their loud voices woke her up, making it her business. Later Jo finds that the man, Grady, lives in the nearby town of Greensville and that he is a troublemaker there, too. However, Grady is not the only trouble maker in Greensville; there are plenty of troubles and trouble makers in that town. Jo decides to get to the bottom of what makes the town so disfunctional.
Pawlish has written this story in such a way that we feel we are in the scenes and with the characters who have become real to us. There is real intrigue and desperation as any good mystery requires, but surprises and turn-abouts in this one makes it special and even more entertaining.
I can whole-heartedly recommend this book.
Fritzi Redgrave
In this story, Jo Gunning proves, once again, that she has the instinct, the training, the temperment and the daring to right what is wrong. This is the second in the series of Jo Gunning books. If you didn't read the first one, no worries. Each book stands alone very well, but if you want a real treat, read Gunning for Trouble AND Gunning for Truth. You will not regret it.
Jo has been traveling and ends up in a small town motel, only to hear a disturbance in the next room where a man is shouting at a woman. Jo knocks on the door to ask them to quiet down as it is 2:00 am. The man is drunk and tells Jo to go away and leave them alone, that what is transpiring is none of her business. Jo disagrees since their loud voices woke her up, making it her business. Later Jo finds that the man, Grady, lives in the nearby town of Greensville and that he is a troublemaker there, too. However, Grady is not the only trouble maker in Greensville; there are plenty of troubles and trouble makers in that town. Jo decides to get to the bottom of what makes the town so disfunctional.
Pawlish has written this story in such a way that we feel we are in the scenes and with the characters who have become real to us. There is real intrigue and desperation as any good mystery requires, but surprises and turn-abouts in this one makes it special and even more entertaining.
I can whole-heartedly recommend this book.
Fritzi Redgrave
November 3, 2022
Renee Pawlish delivers another stunning action thriller when Jo Gunning pauses in her westward hike, supposedly towards Colorado. While not anxious for a reunion with her family, Jo continues to hitchhike west. She passes through a small southern town that is anything but hospitable. Everyone seems to urge her to just be on her way after she disrupts a man's attempt to threaten and bully the woman in the motel room next to hers.
Things are not as you would expect in the small southern town, and an obvious abuse of power from local law enforcement proves dangerous for Jo as well as anyone else who threatens the status quo. The action will keep you on the edge of your seat as the threats and violence ramp up. How can one woman, even one as highly trained as Jo Gunning, prevail against the evil forces controlling the town when anyone helping her is also swept into the path of destruction? This is a book for anyone who likes action thrillers. Renee Pawlish brings her superb writing skills, intense plotting and rich character development together to bring another winner. Readers will be eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
Things are not as you would expect in the small southern town, and an obvious abuse of power from local law enforcement proves dangerous for Jo as well as anyone else who threatens the status quo. The action will keep you on the edge of your seat as the threats and violence ramp up. How can one woman, even one as highly trained as Jo Gunning, prevail against the evil forces controlling the town when anyone helping her is also swept into the path of destruction? This is a book for anyone who likes action thrillers. Renee Pawlish brings her superb writing skills, intense plotting and rich character development together to bring another winner. Readers will be eagerly awaiting the next adventure.
November 1, 2022
I don't know how the second book in the Jo Gunning series can be as good as the first, but Renée Pawlish has definitely equaled- if not surpassed - her introductory mystery. This finds Jo working her way from DC to Colorado . She stopped in Alabama in a small motel and is rudely awakened by loud voices in the next room. She knocks on the door and stops an abusive situation after taking on the larger, drunken bully. She sends him packing, makes sure the woman will be ok, then goes back to her room. Jo runs into the woman the next morning and is offered a ride to the next town and is told that the guy Jo ran off was one to hold a grudge - an understatement. This starts a rollercoaster series of events and some fascinating characters - some the reader will grow to care about and others that will elicit much different emotions. There are enough twist to make you dizzy and definitely keep you reading and wanting more. I can't wait for #3!
November 3, 2022
Renee Pawlish has released another adventure with her newest character Jo Gunning. This is the second in the series and if she continues in this great manner, this could become a hit series.
Jo Gunning is a veteran who relies heavily on her skills learned in the military. These skills helps her to provide assistance to those in need of help when normal law enforcement is unable, or unwilling.
This story takes Jo into small town corruption that has become fatal for some of the citizens. She uses her special skills to investigate on behalf of a new friend and finds there is more than simple corruption involved.
I highly recommend this and the first book in the series to anyone who loves adventure and mystery.
Jo Gunning is a veteran who relies heavily on her skills learned in the military. These skills helps her to provide assistance to those in need of help when normal law enforcement is unable, or unwilling.
This story takes Jo into small town corruption that has become fatal for some of the citizens. She uses her special skills to investigate on behalf of a new friend and finds there is more than simple corruption involved.
I highly recommend this and the first book in the series to anyone who loves adventure and mystery.
November 4, 2022
This book kept me so engrossed. It had its ups and downs and held my attention from start to finish. I loved the main character and how she handles the problems presented to her. She is one kick-butt female. I love how she helps out characters that are unable to "help" themselves due to the characters who are out to cause them problems. I love that she jumps right in and helps those who are down on their luck. She isn't afraid to take care of business! As you can tell, Jo is turning into one of my favorite book characters and look forward to more books where she kicks the bad guys butt! Loved, loved, loved this book and if you love an action packed book with surprises, you will love this book!
November 1, 2022
Gunning for Truth is the second book in the Jo Gunning series by Renee Pawlish. After leaving DC, Jo takes a detour through Alabama where she had lived during part of her childhood. She gets involved in a domestic abuse incident at her motel. Little did she realize that would lead her to investigate a possible murder. It also brought to light corrupt activities that put many people in Greenville at risk. But Jo’s military background helps her get to the bottom of the many mysteries before she moves on. Lots of characters for a small southern town. Twists keep the reader guessing. I received an ARC for my honest review. If you like a mystery with some violence, grab your copy.
November 1, 2022
In Gunning for Truth, the second in the Jo Gunning series, author Renee Pawlish has created a courageously consistent character.
After being asked to search for the truth of a young mans murder, in a small town she happens to have run amiss with a local deputy, Jo finds plenty wrong in town and too many scared people. Never one to walk away when mystery and potential crime stares her in the face, Jo is now targeted, but who wants her gone and why?
Clever Jo Gunning pursues clues, makes alliances and uncovers the criminals, all in satisfying bang up style.
After being asked to search for the truth of a young mans murder, in a small town she happens to have run amiss with a local deputy, Jo finds plenty wrong in town and too many scared people. Never one to walk away when mystery and potential crime stares her in the face, Jo is now targeted, but who wants her gone and why?
Clever Jo Gunning pursues clues, makes alliances and uncovers the criminals, all in satisfying bang up style.
November 6, 2022
Jo Gunning is slowly making her way to Colorado by way of the deep south. After helping a woman being abused by a drunken man, Jo finds herself being encouraged to leave the little southern town; a little too much engouement is being offered. But why? This little town seems to have too many secrets and it seems like some of the townspeople are a little too scared for Jo's liking. Can she find out what is going on and stay alive when it seems more than one person is going to make sure she leaves or dies.
June 24, 2023
Skilled Veteran Against Drug Cartel Killers
This book is the second in a series of action thrillers with a skilled female veteran as the main character. Our hero is just trying to find some inner peace, but the bad guys are always finding her. This is a very believable series. There is the expected violence, but nothing that would promote bad dreams. There is also no bad language or sex. It is refreshing to have a good story that doesn't pad the plot with distractions. I am so enjoying the series that I am off to read book 3.
This book is the second in a series of action thrillers with a skilled female veteran as the main character. Our hero is just trying to find some inner peace, but the bad guys are always finding her. This is a very believable series. There is the expected violence, but nothing that would promote bad dreams. There is also no bad language or sex. It is refreshing to have a good story that doesn't pad the plot with distractions. I am so enjoying the series that I am off to read book 3.
November 1, 2022
This new character and series is slightly different than what Pawlish usually writes, but I am hooked already. Strong female who can kick ass and take names if she wants, Jo Gunning is trying to keep a low profile. When she spots a young girl who obviously doesn't belong with the homeless druggies, Jo can't stand by and watch her get hurt. What happens next is quite the embroiled mess, but it sure was fun unraveling it. Another hit for Pawlish!
May 12, 2023
There is non-stop action, and maybe Jo could be believable, but probably not. Ex-military, keeps in good shape, but the number of men she can outmaneuver and incapacitate? I think not. This is basically a female version of Jack Reacher; travels light, has money to get by on, no permanent residence, few close friends, tough as nails with a magnified sense of justice and morality. It seemed like a rip-off of Lee Child's male character.
July 28, 2025
Imagine you are free wheeling down a hill. Faster. Faster. Faster. That is what it is like to read a Jo Gunning book. You start out a little slow, but by the time you get half way you're getting some speed. At 3/4, there is no way you are going to bed at 10 PM, and you continue to speed down the hill. I wanted to see Keyshaun in the role of the new sheriff, but that didn't happen. Even so, it was an excellent story. I just down loaded book 3.
November 3, 2022
Another excellent thriller from Renee Pawlish. Gunning for Truth is the second installment of this series and even better than the first. I absolutely loved it! Jo Gunning uses her unique skill-set to find the truth behind and expose small-town secrets and corruption. There are so many twists in this tale, it kept me guessing until the end. I am looking forward to the next Gunning adventure!
April 10, 2023
gunning for a good read? stop here
Really enjoying this series about Jo Gunning. She’s a former special ops soldier who just finds trouble.
I enjoy the character development, the believability of the plot, and how Pawlish keeps it real.
Shirley is one of my favorite supporting characters and I hope to see her again. Keyshawn would be appreciated too!
Really enjoying this series about Jo Gunning. She’s a former special ops soldier who just finds trouble.
I enjoy the character development, the believability of the plot, and how Pawlish keeps it real.
Shirley is one of my favorite supporting characters and I hope to see her again. Keyshawn would be appreciated too!
April 1, 2025
Great female lead in this thriller
This was my second Jo Gunning book as I'm reading them in order. Great stories and I love how tough Jo is while still being a good person. Good back stories going on in this book and characters you can relate to. Nothing too far fetched, which makes it more believable. Can't wait to see what Jo gets herself into in book 3.
This was my second Jo Gunning book as I'm reading them in order. Great stories and I love how tough Jo is while still being a good person. Good back stories going on in this book and characters you can relate to. Nothing too far fetched, which makes it more believable. Can't wait to see what Jo gets herself into in book 3.
December 2, 2025
Good to catch up again with Jo Gunning. The female version of Jack Reacher as such. Getting caught up in a domestic problem starts this all off and everything develops from there. What makes her stay about town is the fact she is being the cold shoulder, but why?
Good easy read and wiles away an hour or so.
Good easy read and wiles away an hour or so.
November 2, 2022
This second book in Renee Pawlish's new series is just as good, if not better than the first one. Jo just cannot keep moving on if someone seems to need her help. This included when folks are trying to kill her while she is in the process of providing aid or searching for answers.
November 9, 2022
This is the second book in this series. The action starts right away and keeps going until the end. The reader gets breaks to relax in between the action sequences. The characters are believable and they keep you interested. I can’t wait for the next book in this great series.
January 28, 2023
Not a cliffhanger. Suspense, intrigue and action all rolled into one story. Easy to read and hard to
put down. Not a romance, yet a badass female character. I have always been a sucker for the kickass female character and Jo delivers.
put down. Not a romance, yet a badass female character. I have always been a sucker for the kickass female character and Jo delivers.
October 21, 2023
Wandering the country, helping people
Jo Gunning is former military, wandering the country helping people, investigating trouble. This book is longer than I prefer and a bit slow in parts, but it is well written and has varied and entertaining characters.
Jo Gunning is former military, wandering the country helping people, investigating trouble. This book is longer than I prefer and a bit slow in parts, but it is well written and has varied and entertaining characters.
November 14, 2023
Jo Gunning series
I bought the whole series on Kindle because the reviews compared the main female character to Jack Reacher. They were right! If you like a lot of action and suspense, and characters who come to life on the pages, you’ll love these books!
I bought the whole series on Kindle because the reviews compared the main female character to Jack Reacher. They were right! If you like a lot of action and suspense, and characters who come to life on the pages, you’ll love these books!
February 3, 2024
A read to make your heart race
A small southern town with more corruption than most towns twice its size. Then people start to die.
Jo, the series heroine, arrives just in time to be caught up in the violence. It is a great read.
A small southern town with more corruption than most towns twice its size. Then people start to die.
Jo, the series heroine, arrives just in time to be caught up in the violence. It is a great read.
October 25, 2024
Female Reacher - Long Winded.
This could be a good book. Sure, it’s a female Reacher. Not a lot of investment in the plot, just Jo and side characters. The issue is the length of the book. Lose 50 pages, tighten it up, and the book would zip along nicely.
This could be a good book. Sure, it’s a female Reacher. Not a lot of investment in the plot, just Jo and side characters. The issue is the length of the book. Lose 50 pages, tighten it up, and the book would zip along nicely.
December 12, 2022
Awesome book! I’m really enjoying this series. I love a strong female lead character and Jo Gunning is just that, strong and smart.
January 14, 2023
Great new book
New character, well written … always keeps you wondering after every chapter … now onto book number3 in the series.
New character, well written … always keeps you wondering after every chapter … now onto book number3 in the series.
March 16, 2023
Weak and unoriginal
So many typographical, punctuation, and formatting errors.
Other books by this author are better written and more entertaining.
Jo Reacher?
So many typographical, punctuation, and formatting errors.
Other books by this author are better written and more entertaining.
Jo Reacher?
March 25, 2023
Exciting story line with some twists and turns. Strong women characters, as as well as plenty of bad guys, guns and more!
May 7, 2023
Of all your characters, this is my favorite
July 21, 2023
Great book. Love Jo Gunning's character, a strong female hero. Loved the story.
August 1, 2023
Couldn't stop reading!
The beginning was slow but once I got into it I couldn't put the book down. I would recommend this book for everyone.
The beginning was slow but once I got into it I couldn't put the book down. I would recommend this book for everyone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews