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The Devil You Know
The year is 1931.
For the last two years, the infamous mobster, Al Capone has blackmailed Private Eye, Guy Duncan, into doing dirty work for him.
Now, he's one favor away from squaring his debt: all he needs to do is bump off one of the rising competitors in the bootlegging business before he makes a name for himself. That's easier said than done.
In a city polluted by devils, it's hard to go anywhere without getting caught up in someone else's mess.
With little time and a lot to lose, Duncan can't afford any distractions.
Before he can earn his freedom, he must thrust himself into the very heart of the criminal underworld and hope he doesn't lose his last sliver of humanity along the way.
A dark tale of crime, murder, and deception, this is one case you'll want to crack.
A Crime Noir Novel set in the streets of Chicago during Prohibition. A story that embodies the dark tone of classic noir. This is a must-read if you love mysteries, gangsters, action, and stories that will have you on the edge of your seat!
For the last two years, the infamous mobster, Al Capone has blackmailed Private Eye, Guy Duncan, into doing dirty work for him.
Now, he's one favor away from squaring his debt: all he needs to do is bump off one of the rising competitors in the bootlegging business before he makes a name for himself. That's easier said than done.
In a city polluted by devils, it's hard to go anywhere without getting caught up in someone else's mess.
With little time and a lot to lose, Duncan can't afford any distractions.
Before he can earn his freedom, he must thrust himself into the very heart of the criminal underworld and hope he doesn't lose his last sliver of humanity along the way.
A dark tale of crime, murder, and deception, this is one case you'll want to crack.
A Crime Noir Novel set in the streets of Chicago during Prohibition. A story that embodies the dark tone of classic noir. This is a must-read if you love mysteries, gangsters, action, and stories that will have you on the edge of your seat!
164 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 5, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
July 20, 2026
A wonderful addition to the noir genre. Characters are very well written and relatable. The story is engaging and the pace keeps the reader hooked up to the last page.
If you are looking for your next book, then The Devil You Know should be at the top of your reading list.
If you are looking for your next book, then The Devil You Know should be at the top of your reading list.
April 1, 2023
“The Devil you Know” is a pulp noir detective story in the style of Dashiell Hammett or Georges Simenon. Schroeder creates a story with action and romance that draws on local Chicago history.
February 2, 2023
“It’s been said that it’s better to deal with the devil you know than the devil you don’t—but what they don’t tell you, is that sometimes the devil you know is the more dangerous one.”
I really enjoyed this book. I've always loved the saying, "Better the devil you know than the devil you don't." I was first introduced to the quote in Animorphs when they were so close to killing Visser Three. But I digress...
The way this is written is captivating. Guy Duncan is blackmailed into doing a job for Al Capone, but his world begins to spiral from there. The characters are very well rounded and the interactions are just like an old movie, but for some reason, I find it more refreshing.
I also love twists with my entire being. The big twist was one I pieced together, but it was very well done.
All in all, I really, really enjoyed this book. I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. I definitely recommend reading this one.
5 stars.
I really enjoyed this book. I've always loved the saying, "Better the devil you know than the devil you don't." I was first introduced to the quote in Animorphs when they were so close to killing Visser Three. But I digress...
The way this is written is captivating. Guy Duncan is blackmailed into doing a job for Al Capone, but his world begins to spiral from there. The characters are very well rounded and the interactions are just like an old movie, but for some reason, I find it more refreshing.
I also love twists with my entire being. The big twist was one I pieced together, but it was very well done.
All in all, I really, really enjoyed this book. I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. I definitely recommend reading this one.
5 stars.
February 1, 2024
Become Immersed In The Underworld Of 1930s Chicago
I enjoy 1940s film noir movies and this debut novel from James Schroder captures that atmosphere perfectly. The descriptions and dialogue throughout drew me in and kept me reading, excited to see where the story would go next. It is also clear that the author took great care in researching the time period to give his book an authentic feel. If you are a fan of Chicago, crime stories, bygone eras, history, or all of the above, this story is for you. Enjoy!
I enjoy 1940s film noir movies and this debut novel from James Schroder captures that atmosphere perfectly. The descriptions and dialogue throughout drew me in and kept me reading, excited to see where the story would go next. It is also clear that the author took great care in researching the time period to give his book an authentic feel. If you are a fan of Chicago, crime stories, bygone eras, history, or all of the above, this story is for you. Enjoy!
August 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Gritty, Unforgettable Noir
James Schroeder nails the classic crime noir vibe in The Devil You Know. With sharp writing, a brooding atmosphere, and a flawed but compelling lead, this story pulls you into 1931 Chicago and doesn’t let go. A must-read for noir fans.
Elise Monroe
A Gritty, Unforgettable Noir
James Schroeder nails the classic crime noir vibe in The Devil You Know. With sharp writing, a brooding atmosphere, and a flawed but compelling lead, this story pulls you into 1931 Chicago and doesn’t let go. A must-read for noir fans.
Elise Monroe
August 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Classic Noir Done Right
Schroeder brings the smoky streets of 1931 Chicago to life in this tension-filled crime tale. The Devil You Know is bold, brutal, and beautifully written. Highly recommended for mystery lovers.
Nora Caldwell
Classic Noir Done Right
Schroeder brings the smoky streets of 1931 Chicago to life in this tension-filled crime tale. The Devil You Know is bold, brutal, and beautifully written. Highly recommended for mystery lovers.
Nora Caldwell
February 10, 2023
I really liked how descriptive this book was. It had emotion, action, and twists that I did not expect. I recommend this book to anyone who likes darker mysteries. It kept me wondering what happens next.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews