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Thomas Shepherd Mystery #3
Killer Instinct
Two bizarre deaths. One sadistic murderer.
And the sheriff tasked with catching him.
A decorated police officer is found dead in a farmer's field, covered in what appear to be wasp stings. Except it's almost Thanksgiving in New York, and three inches of snow cover the ground. Days later, a prominent businessman with a fear of heights leaps from Harmon's tallest skyscraper.
Are the deaths related?
Working beside Raven Hopkins and the private investigators of Wolf Lake Consulting, Sheriff Thomas Shepherd pieces together an unsolvable puzzle. The deeper Thomas digs, the more certain he is the victims concealed secrets that got them killed.
Now someone is following the investigators. Someone who doesn't want them to learn the truth.
Can the sheriff save his friends and family from a demented murderer?
And the sheriff tasked with catching him.
A decorated police officer is found dead in a farmer's field, covered in what appear to be wasp stings. Except it's almost Thanksgiving in New York, and three inches of snow cover the ground. Days later, a prominent businessman with a fear of heights leaps from Harmon's tallest skyscraper.
Are the deaths related?
Working beside Raven Hopkins and the private investigators of Wolf Lake Consulting, Sheriff Thomas Shepherd pieces together an unsolvable puzzle. The deeper Thomas digs, the more certain he is the victims concealed secrets that got them killed.
Now someone is following the investigators. Someone who doesn't want them to learn the truth.
Can the sheriff save his friends and family from a demented murderer?
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2023
336 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Dan Padavona
101 books612 followersAuthor of the Wolf Lake and Darkwater Cove series.
Want a free thriller and mystery book? Please join my VIP thriller readers club at
www.danpadavona.com.
I'm a father, husband, dog lover, and an advocate for animals and the homeless.
My kryptonite is ice cream, and my super power is cranking heavy metal.
More than anything, I love a good story. Let me tell you one.
Want a free thriller and mystery book? Please join my VIP thriller readers club at
www.danpadavona.com.
I'm a father, husband, dog lover, and an advocate for animals and the homeless.
My kryptonite is ice cream, and my super power is cranking heavy metal.
More than anything, I love a good story. Let me tell you one.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 14, 2023
Solid 4 stars. A pretty good police procedural, although I did figure out "who dun it" about half way through. Still a good read. Highly recommend the Thomas Shepherd books!
July 26, 2023
this is such a great addition to the thomas shepherd mystery series! i really enjoyed how there were more chapters told from levar’s pov than usual. i feel like i learned so much about him as a character and saw how drastic his transition from prolific gang member to sheriffs deputy was. the team is productive as ever in solving the mysterious deaths popping up, somehow linking an apparent suicide to a death by wasp stings!
one of my favorite parts of dan padavona’s books is that there are frequently chapters from the killer’s pov. that worked really well in this one, especially when he falls into the lake and is presumed dead. let’s just say it’s a good thing i’m not a homicide detective, because i didn’t guess who the killer was. there was one instance that was a dead giveaway in hindsight, but other than that i didn’t pick up on any clues.
one of my favorite parts of dan padavona’s books is that there are frequently chapters from the killer’s pov. that worked really well in this one, especially when he falls into the lake and is presumed dead. let’s just say it’s a good thing i’m not a homicide detective, because i didn’t guess who the killer was. there was one instance that was a dead giveaway in hindsight, but other than that i didn’t pick up on any clues.
March 8, 2023
Sheriff Thomas Shepherd is back in Killer Instinct and when a police officer is murdered, it is all hands on deck. When another body turns up, so does the heat in trying to solve this case. Along with his department and the Harmon PD, Thomas will need the help of private investigators at Wolf Lake Consulting. As they work on this mystery, the killer turns his murderous rage on them. Who will be next on his list? The characters are relatable, and the storyline is great. This novel is a fast-paced, completely captivating suspense/mystery with many twists and turns. Well done Dan Padavona. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2023
In my opinion this is a great continuation to the Thomas Shepherd Mystery Series. Dan Padavona gave me everything I expect from his books suspense, mystery, family and danger. When we are introduced to the killer I had a feeling it was one of two people. I loved how we got to see how LeVar has grown and his struggle with facing things. There were some slow moments in the story but Dan Padavona kept the intensity going. In my opinion it's worth reading. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader's copy.
October 24, 2025
A definite must read series!
This has been one of my favorite series since the first book, and the stories just keep getting better and better. If you're looking for an fantastic, unique, and intriguing series with lots of suspenseful twists, this is certainly not one to be missed! I absolutely love how this extremely diverse group has become an amazing family. It's definitely something that I would love to see more of in reality.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
This has been one of my favorite series since the first book, and the stories just keep getting better and better. If you're looking for an fantastic, unique, and intriguing series with lots of suspenseful twists, this is certainly not one to be missed! I absolutely love how this extremely diverse group has become an amazing family. It's definitely something that I would love to see more of in reality.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
March 17, 2023
4+****
This edition had some slow times. But there is always that intensity of the chase that happens in this series. What always impresses me the most, each book brings with it a huge dose of family, togetherness, diversity and get the job done with compassion and understanding for everyone, no matter who they are, what their limitations are, what their background is or where they come from. A story with a heart.
This edition had some slow times. But there is always that intensity of the chase that happens in this series. What always impresses me the most, each book brings with it a huge dose of family, togetherness, diversity and get the job done with compassion and understanding for everyone, no matter who they are, what their limitations are, what their background is or where they come from. A story with a heart.
March 24, 2023
The story gets better and better
The characters in this stories are so real, I feel like I know them. This new case brings back history to many of the characters, how are they going to solve the puzzle and all stay alive. This is intense and thrilling at the same time. You will not want to miss what will happen next.
The characters in this stories are so real, I feel like I know them. This new case brings back history to many of the characters, how are they going to solve the puzzle and all stay alive. This is intense and thrilling at the same time. You will not want to miss what will happen next.
April 9, 2023
Another great thriller from Dan Padavona
I’m always excited when a new book is released involving the Wolf Lake characters- it’s like a family reunion to hear how these characters are growing in their development. Killer Instinct does not disappoint as a story line with ups and downs, heart-stopping moments and a good conclusion.
I’m always excited when a new book is released involving the Wolf Lake characters- it’s like a family reunion to hear how these characters are growing in their development. Killer Instinct does not disappoint as a story line with ups and downs, heart-stopping moments and a good conclusion.
June 4, 2023
Awesome
This is an awesome series! A great edge of your seat, suspenseful, page turner. An unusual group of people that have formed an ever growing family, that work together and are there for each other to tackle some of the evil people in their edge of the world. They may get knocked down but they get back up fighting.
This is an awesome series! A great edge of your seat, suspenseful, page turner. An unusual group of people that have formed an ever growing family, that work together and are there for each other to tackle some of the evil people in their edge of the world. They may get knocked down but they get back up fighting.
March 23, 2023
Holiday time everyone is on the Chase, searching someone deranged like Damien from the Omen, and he's just as bad burningtheforestand peoplejumpingoff buildings. Raven is on Wilde ride to the sheriff's department that doesn't go well 🤔
Hopefully she'll get out of being spared from wasps. LaVar is stepping up as a deputy, and getting the streets back. Only thing not resolved Sheppard won't go back to the dentist 🤔
Hopefully she'll get out of being spared from wasps. LaVar is stepping up as a deputy, and getting the streets back. Only thing not resolved Sheppard won't go back to the dentist 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2023
Killer Instinct
OMG. This is a ten star book. This is an exciting book that you won't want to put down. I loved this book. I can't wait until the next book comes out. I highly recommend this mystery. Great book.
OMG. This is a ten star book. This is an exciting book that you won't want to put down. I loved this book. I can't wait until the next book comes out. I highly recommend this mystery. Great book.
April 6, 2023
As always amazing
I can't get enough of these books. First Wolf Lake, now Thomas Shepherd. Well written stories that keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat with characters that start feeling like family. I can't wait to read more.
I can't get enough of these books. First Wolf Lake, now Thomas Shepherd. Well written stories that keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat with characters that start feeling like family. I can't wait to read more.
April 25, 2023
another oh wow!
One goof…the beginning of the book Raven called Thomas Chelsey’s husband…but no wedding yet…maybe your next book? Great read, way past my bedtime but again; I could not put it down! Please keep writing!
One goof…the beginning of the book Raven called Thomas Chelsey’s husband…but no wedding yet…maybe your next book? Great read, way past my bedtime but again; I could not put it down! Please keep writing!
May 5, 2023
fan off padavona
I am still impressed that one of the hero’s of Mr. Padavona’s has autism. Maybe one day everyone will except each person without labels. The book was well written and kept me interesting from beginning to end.
I am still impressed that one of the hero’s of Mr. Padavona’s has autism. Maybe one day everyone will except each person without labels. The book was well written and kept me interesting from beginning to end.
June 19, 2023
another demented and vengeful killer
A resentful, bitter killer takes aim at a diverse selection of victims.
LeVar gets a stunning surprise from an unexpected direction as the Wolf Lake team sports a target on its back while investigating aspects of the homicides.
A resentful, bitter killer takes aim at a diverse selection of victims.
LeVar gets a stunning surprise from an unexpected direction as the Wolf Lake team sports a target on its back while investigating aspects of the homicides.
September 24, 2023
Another Great Thriller! While this can be read as a stand alone novel, it is a marvelous continuation of Thomas and his chosen family. Each member an intelligent, driven an integral part of a team that helps solve murders, abductions and arson.
December 13, 2024
Wonderful storyline!
I like that the characters are completely believable. The details of all elements of the storyline works to provide a vivid picture. I am starting the next book in the series immediately.
I like that the characters are completely believable. The details of all elements of the storyline works to provide a vivid picture. I am starting the next book in the series immediately.
March 20, 2023
FANTASTIC!!!
Another outstanding book. Absolutely fantastic thrill ride. You have to love all tea characters. Cant wait until the next cool comes out.
Another outstanding book. Absolutely fantastic thrill ride. You have to love all tea characters. Cant wait until the next cool comes out.
March 20, 2023
Ok people...
You need to start reading Dan Padavonas books, all of them. Phenomenal, gut twisting roller-coaster ride. This author is going places. Don't miss out on his journey.
You need to start reading Dan Padavonas books, all of them. Phenomenal, gut twisting roller-coaster ride. This author is going places. Don't miss out on his journey.
May 1, 2023
great read!
Dan Padavona’s books get better and better. I was on the edge of my seat with every turn of a page.
Dan Padavona’s books get better and better. I was on the edge of my seat with every turn of a page.
May 24, 2023
A slow moving story
The first half of the book was slow moving, then finally picked up a little. Interesting climax, but was worth the boring first half.
The first half of the book was slow moving, then finally picked up a little. Interesting climax, but was worth the boring first half.
May 30, 2023
Great Book
I liked the suspense in this book. I didn’t realize who the evil person was. It kept my attention and my interest.
I liked the suspense in this book. I didn’t realize who the evil person was. It kept my attention and my interest.
February 8, 2025
Just Okay
I've read the first three books. They are okay but I think this series is for children or young teens.
I've read the first three books. They are okay but I think this series is for children or young teens.
April 1, 2023
Killer instinct - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Sheriff Thomas Shepherd, Deputy LeVar, Ranger Darren and Deputy Aguilar, are investigating a multiple murder case, while Thomas' girlfriend Chelsey, Raven and Scout Mourning of Wolf Lake Consulting are hired by the first victim's widow, to investigate in tandem with police.
What's so strange about the murder methods?
The killer targets targets his intended victims as they get ever closer to the shocking truth, while law enforcers and the WLC must race against time to save their colleagues and loved ones before the death toll rises, in Dan Padavona's outstanding thriller, Killer Instinct...get it today and check your security systems before you go to bed tonight!
Sheriff Thomas Shepherd, Deputy LeVar, Ranger Darren and Deputy Aguilar, are investigating a multiple murder case, while Thomas' girlfriend Chelsey, Raven and Scout Mourning of Wolf Lake Consulting are hired by the first victim's widow, to investigate in tandem with police.
What's so strange about the murder methods?
The killer targets targets his intended victims as they get ever closer to the shocking truth, while law enforcers and the WLC must race against time to save their colleagues and loved ones before the death toll rises, in Dan Padavona's outstanding thriller, Killer Instinct...get it today and check your security systems before you go to bed tonight!
October 5, 2024
Another interesting story in the Thomas Shepherd series. I enjoy all the characters in the series even if it is a bit unbelievable how amazing they all are.
June 7, 2023
I can’t say enough how I enjoy these people and their stories.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews