What do you think?
Rate this book
A Roland March Mystery #2
Pattern of Wounds
For Detective Roland March, his latest case has become personal. March doesn't know the young female who was stabbed to death, but he thinks he recognizes the crime scene. Nearly ten years ago, March gained national fame as the subject of a true-crime book. But now this crime scene bears eerie similarities to that one. And whispers begin to emerge that March may have put the wrong man behind bars.
Worse, Houston may now have a serial killer on the loose. As more cases emerge that seem connected, and threats against March and those closest to him build, he must solve the case--rescuing not only the city but his own reputation as a homicide cop.
Worse, Houston may now have a serial killer on the loose. As more cases emerge that seem connected, and threats against March and those closest to him build, he must solve the case--rescuing not only the city but his own reputation as a homicide cop.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
53 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
About the author
J. Mark Bertrand
7 books176 followersJ. Mark Bertrand is the author of Back on Murder, Pattern of Wounds, and Nothing to Hide, crime novels featuring Houston homicide detective Roland March. He has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Houston and lived in the city for fifteen years. After one hurricane too many, he and his wife moved to South Dakota.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
April 6, 2014
Roland has a chip on his shoulder. Still devastated by the death of Jessica, his daughter, in an accident committed by a drunk driver, he has made a legal form of revenge his mission. If someone gets off, or fails to intervene when something bad is happening, March works out a way to discover some dirt or malfeasance for which they could be punished. His job suffers as a result. He’s also lost whatever faith he had. “ If the Almighty was gonna sit back and let it all happen, somebody had to step up. There’s no such thing in my book as an innocent bystander.” Charlotte, his wife, enlists their renters, overtly religious types, to pull him back into the fold, with little success.
“Carter, listen to me. You mean well, I realize that. But there’s no magic formula or platitude they taught you in seminary that’s going to turn me into one of you. It’s not gonna happen. You have no idea what I’ve seen and what I’ve done. Trust me, if you did, you’d be like me, and we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” “I don’t think I’m deceiving myself.” … “People don’t. That’s the whole point. But they go on believing what they’ve been told, they keep voting and buying and praying, they live good lives surrounded by good people in a good world where everything is good. And they think when it’s not good, that’s the aberration. That’s the exception to the rule. But underneath, Carter, if you could turn this city upside down, you’d see it’s all rot down there, all corruption.”
Despite some platitudinous religious overtones (ones that were much less evident in the first book of the series,) there’s a good mystery. A woman has been found floating in a swimming pool, cut up in a rather bizarre pattern and the murder scene has been choreographed to closely resemble the murder scene in a case March had closed and about which a book had been written. The photographs in the book of the floating body were identical to the ones of the current case.
As I noted in my review of the first Roland March, I was puzzled by the Christian label attached to it. March has a very cynical view of the world and has little time for the religious, but perhaps some form of over-the-top redemption will take place later in the series. That would tune me out for sure. In the meantime it’s a good series although this one can tend to be a bit confusing mixing up characters. And what’s with the overuse of present tense?
“Carter, listen to me. You mean well, I realize that. But there’s no magic formula or platitude they taught you in seminary that’s going to turn me into one of you. It’s not gonna happen. You have no idea what I’ve seen and what I’ve done. Trust me, if you did, you’d be like me, and we wouldn’t be having this conversation.” “I don’t think I’m deceiving myself.” … “People don’t. That’s the whole point. But they go on believing what they’ve been told, they keep voting and buying and praying, they live good lives surrounded by good people in a good world where everything is good. And they think when it’s not good, that’s the aberration. That’s the exception to the rule. But underneath, Carter, if you could turn this city upside down, you’d see it’s all rot down there, all corruption.”
Despite some platitudinous religious overtones (ones that were much less evident in the first book of the series,) there’s a good mystery. A woman has been found floating in a swimming pool, cut up in a rather bizarre pattern and the murder scene has been choreographed to closely resemble the murder scene in a case March had closed and about which a book had been written. The photographs in the book of the floating body were identical to the ones of the current case.
As I noted in my review of the first Roland March, I was puzzled by the Christian label attached to it. March has a very cynical view of the world and has little time for the religious, but perhaps some form of over-the-top redemption will take place later in the series. That would tune me out for sure. In the meantime it’s a good series although this one can tend to be a bit confusing mixing up characters. And what’s with the overuse of present tense?
July 13, 2011
This was an amazing piece of criminal suspense fiction. I had to read it a lot slower than most because not only am I looking for the clues behind the murders but also trying to solve the crime before the end. Forget it, I now see that I am not a police detective. This one had me guessing, re-guessing, second guessing and in the end, I got it wrong.
There are some unique aspects of serial killings in this book and the twists and turns make you feel like you have arrived at a location thinking you have the map in hand but after looking at it more than once, you realize it's the wrong map after all.
Kudos once more to J. Mark Bertrand for writing his sequel using the character of Detective Roland March. While he tries hard to succumb to the rules as much as he can, he finds that sometimes you have to bend the rules in order to solve the tougher crimes. LOVED this one and can easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars for making me work at finding out who did it. Now I have to wait to read the next one before the manhunt begins again.
If like me, you love trying to solve a great mystery, then this is the book for you. I received this book compliments of Christian Blog Alliance for my honest review and will make sure to add this reader to my personal watch list.
There are some unique aspects of serial killings in this book and the twists and turns make you feel like you have arrived at a location thinking you have the map in hand but after looking at it more than once, you realize it's the wrong map after all.
Kudos once more to J. Mark Bertrand for writing his sequel using the character of Detective Roland March. While he tries hard to succumb to the rules as much as he can, he finds that sometimes you have to bend the rules in order to solve the tougher crimes. LOVED this one and can easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars for making me work at finding out who did it. Now I have to wait to read the next one before the manhunt begins again.
If like me, you love trying to solve a great mystery, then this is the book for you. I received this book compliments of Christian Blog Alliance for my honest review and will make sure to add this reader to my personal watch list.
February 3, 2014
I was so looking forward to getting my hands on J. Mark Bertrand’s PATTERN OF WOUNDS, the second in the Roland March series. I certainly wasn’t disappointed. It’s Christmas in Houston, TX, but don’t be fooled. This is not your typical jingle bells and deck the halls Christmas who dun it.
March is investigating a series of murders characterized by a certain pattern of knife wounds. The bodies of attractive women have been brutally stabbed and theatrically positioned. In addition, these current murders are eerily reminiscent of a murder committed by a man March put behind bars ten years ago. Did March arrest the wrong man years ago, or do they now have a copycat killer?
To further complicate things, March starts getting taunting emails from the killer. This cruelly demented killer is making it personal and forcing March to deal with his complicated and painful past. On September 11, 2011, he solved the original murder investigation that mirrors this one. That awful and infamous day was also the date when a drunk driver killed his only daughter. The new investigation becomes even more personal when March’s wife is brutally attacked in their home. In this novel, just as in the first, nonbelieving March wrestles with the question how could a loving God let brutality like this happen.
In this novel, March is in a healthier frame of mind than in book one. He’s more adept now at handling the sordid side of life his job forces him to deal with. His marriage is in better shape, though he’s not at all sure he likes his wife’s new found faith. The characters are well developed and have depth. March and his wife are an ordinary couple who face true-to-life situations and have realistic problems.
Internal police politics is about the same as in the first novel, a complicated minefield. The original serial killer gets wind of this new case and starts and appeal. A police officer in another jurisdiction tries to further his own career by making it look as if March bungled the original case. Of course, March’s superiors don’t back him up, but instead lean toward the other officer’s theory. In addition, a true crime writer betrays March in an attempt to get a crack at putting out a best seller.
This is a fascinating read, a true thriller-chiller. The reader has a sense of foreboding. Something horrific could happen to the main characters at any time. There is a race against time before the killer strikes again. Bertrand weaves a fine murder mystery that keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
March is investigating a series of murders characterized by a certain pattern of knife wounds. The bodies of attractive women have been brutally stabbed and theatrically positioned. In addition, these current murders are eerily reminiscent of a murder committed by a man March put behind bars ten years ago. Did March arrest the wrong man years ago, or do they now have a copycat killer?
To further complicate things, March starts getting taunting emails from the killer. This cruelly demented killer is making it personal and forcing March to deal with his complicated and painful past. On September 11, 2011, he solved the original murder investigation that mirrors this one. That awful and infamous day was also the date when a drunk driver killed his only daughter. The new investigation becomes even more personal when March’s wife is brutally attacked in their home. In this novel, just as in the first, nonbelieving March wrestles with the question how could a loving God let brutality like this happen.
In this novel, March is in a healthier frame of mind than in book one. He’s more adept now at handling the sordid side of life his job forces him to deal with. His marriage is in better shape, though he’s not at all sure he likes his wife’s new found faith. The characters are well developed and have depth. March and his wife are an ordinary couple who face true-to-life situations and have realistic problems.
Internal police politics is about the same as in the first novel, a complicated minefield. The original serial killer gets wind of this new case and starts and appeal. A police officer in another jurisdiction tries to further his own career by making it look as if March bungled the original case. Of course, March’s superiors don’t back him up, but instead lean toward the other officer’s theory. In addition, a true crime writer betrays March in an attempt to get a crack at putting out a best seller.
This is a fascinating read, a true thriller-chiller. The reader has a sense of foreboding. Something horrific could happen to the main characters at any time. There is a race against time before the killer strikes again. Bertrand weaves a fine murder mystery that keeps the reader guessing until the very end.
May 25, 2012
Title: PATTERN OF WOUNDS
Author: J. Mark Bertrand
Publisher: Bethany House
July 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0638-2
Genre: Fiction / Suspense
Detective Roland March is on the case again. This time, it’s personal. Very personal. So much so, that I almost didn’t recognize him. The issues involved in the latest string of murders have touched him at the core of his very being, and he will never be the same man again.
This is not a book for the comfortable Christian who has it all figured out. Through his detective hero, J. Mark Bertrand tackles many tough issues that do not have pat answers, and shows just what it takes to make it through day after day of constant exposure to evil in its various forms. Every area of March’s life is touched by his latest case, and he teeters on the very brink of mental and moral destruction.
Bertrand’s characters are so bitingly real, you feel like you are right beside them the whole way. But don’t expect them to pull any punches. That’s not in the book. This is a great read, and I fully expect and eagerly anticipate the next in the Roland March series. 5 stars. 367 pages. $14.99.
Author: J. Mark Bertrand
Publisher: Bethany House
July 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0638-2
Genre: Fiction / Suspense
Detective Roland March is on the case again. This time, it’s personal. Very personal. So much so, that I almost didn’t recognize him. The issues involved in the latest string of murders have touched him at the core of his very being, and he will never be the same man again.
This is not a book for the comfortable Christian who has it all figured out. Through his detective hero, J. Mark Bertrand tackles many tough issues that do not have pat answers, and shows just what it takes to make it through day after day of constant exposure to evil in its various forms. Every area of March’s life is touched by his latest case, and he teeters on the very brink of mental and moral destruction.
Bertrand’s characters are so bitingly real, you feel like you are right beside them the whole way. But don’t expect them to pull any punches. That’s not in the book. This is a great read, and I fully expect and eagerly anticipate the next in the Roland March series. 5 stars. 367 pages. $14.99.
July 21, 2012
It is rare that I read fiction written by Christians published by Christian publishers. But in the case of J Mark Bertrand I'm happy to make an exception. This is an excellent book - as good as any Michael Connelly.
October 3, 2011
PATTERN OF WOUNDS, by J. Mark Bertrand, is one of the best Christian fiction novels I've read, and easily compares to Steven James for Christian fiction and Michael Connelly for police procedurals. Every page features a new twist in the plot, and in the end Bertrand delivers a complex murder mystery filled with characters that are full of depth and emotion.
Roland March, Houston Homicide Detective, is called to the murder scene of Simone Walker, a beautiful young woman murdered poolside at the home of Professor Joy Hill. Suspects include Simone's ex-husband, Professor Hill, and a possible ex-lover. But, March focuses on the striking similarities of the crime scene to those of a murder scene he investigated years ago, when Donald Fauk murdered his wife. If the crime is similar, then did the same killer commit both crimes? Did March help convict an innocent man?
On his quest for justice, March is both doubted and supported by his co-workers as the plot snakes through a labyrinth of shady characters with multiple motives. As for the Christian aspect of the novel, March of course has been affected by all the violence he sees at his job, and is unwilling to go to church with his wife. Unfortunately, for a few brief moments, Bertrand tackles the question of why bad things happen when there is a loving God. So many Christian authors try to answer this, and they all come up with something different. While this is an important issue, the answers in this novel, as well as others, will do nothing to help those that have suffered tragedy.
From page one of the novel, you know Bertrand gets it. He knows what it’s like to be a cop, and shows on page after page as the details of the daily life, the politics and the reality of being a cop are portrayed exquisitely. In only Bertrand's second novel, he's established himself as one of the best, and head and shoulders above some of even the best Christian suspense authors going. That's not a knock on others, I just think he is that good.
Roland March, Houston Homicide Detective, is called to the murder scene of Simone Walker, a beautiful young woman murdered poolside at the home of Professor Joy Hill. Suspects include Simone's ex-husband, Professor Hill, and a possible ex-lover. But, March focuses on the striking similarities of the crime scene to those of a murder scene he investigated years ago, when Donald Fauk murdered his wife. If the crime is similar, then did the same killer commit both crimes? Did March help convict an innocent man?
On his quest for justice, March is both doubted and supported by his co-workers as the plot snakes through a labyrinth of shady characters with multiple motives. As for the Christian aspect of the novel, March of course has been affected by all the violence he sees at his job, and is unwilling to go to church with his wife. Unfortunately, for a few brief moments, Bertrand tackles the question of why bad things happen when there is a loving God. So many Christian authors try to answer this, and they all come up with something different. While this is an important issue, the answers in this novel, as well as others, will do nothing to help those that have suffered tragedy.
From page one of the novel, you know Bertrand gets it. He knows what it’s like to be a cop, and shows on page after page as the details of the daily life, the politics and the reality of being a cop are portrayed exquisitely. In only Bertrand's second novel, he's established himself as one of the best, and head and shoulders above some of even the best Christian suspense authors going. That's not a knock on others, I just think he is that good.
December 7, 2011
Pattern of Wounds is the second "Roland March Mystery" from Bertrand. I haven't yet read the first, but my interest is certainly piqued. In this relatively classic who-done-it, a girl is found brutally murdered and grotesquely positioned near her landlord's swimming pool. The pursuit for the killer starts out routine enough, but quickly intertwines with one of March's earlier cases which is now being challenged on appeal, and is soon intertwined with a possible serial killer case connecting dozens of deaths around Texas. Suspects come and go, and the case heats up when March's wife is brutally attacked in his house. The action builds to a series of discoveries that break open the case.
Pattern of Wounds is published by Bethany House, putting it squarely in the traditional "Christian fiction" world, but it breaks out of the mold in a number of ways. The most prevalent way is that its main character, Roland March, isn't a Christian but is instead a skeptic, sometimes ignoring and sometimes wrestling with his wife's faith. And while Christian themes are present, in sometimes powerful ways, it's not preachy, and there are no facile or obvious conclusions drawn. March comes off as an honest character, and an authentic one. And the book is better for it.
I greatly enjoyed Pattern of Wounds, a thoughtful, plausible, and authentic murder mystery with much to offer. I'm glad to recommend it. Thanks to Bethany House for the review copy.
Pattern of Wounds is published by Bethany House, putting it squarely in the traditional "Christian fiction" world, but it breaks out of the mold in a number of ways. The most prevalent way is that its main character, Roland March, isn't a Christian but is instead a skeptic, sometimes ignoring and sometimes wrestling with his wife's faith. And while Christian themes are present, in sometimes powerful ways, it's not preachy, and there are no facile or obvious conclusions drawn. March comes off as an honest character, and an authentic one. And the book is better for it.
I greatly enjoyed Pattern of Wounds, a thoughtful, plausible, and authentic murder mystery with much to offer. I'm glad to recommend it. Thanks to Bethany House for the review copy.
October 11, 2011
Roland March helped convict a man of murder, so when a similar murder takes place, Roland is determined to find out if he put away the right guy or if there is a copycat murderer. When the murderer begins sending Roland cryptic messages and even tries to hurt Charlotte, Roland's wife, the investigation becomes personal. Will Roland catch the murderer before there are more victims?
This is the first book I've read by J. Mark Bertrand, and I wasn't disappointed. The storyline is tightly written with every detail building up to the final showdown.The relationship between Roland and his wife is powerful addition to the murder story as the reader can see the effect being a cop and seeing such horrible things on a person, his view of God, and his relationships. The ending is a chilling beginning for the next book!
It was also cool to read this book since I live just outside of Houston (Kingwood, in fact, just like the book mentioned in the book), so I recognized streets and places.
I was given this book to review by Bethany House. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is the first book I've read by J. Mark Bertrand, and I wasn't disappointed. The storyline is tightly written with every detail building up to the final showdown.The relationship between Roland and his wife is powerful addition to the murder story as the reader can see the effect being a cop and seeing such horrible things on a person, his view of God, and his relationships. The ending is a chilling beginning for the next book!
It was also cool to read this book since I live just outside of Houston (Kingwood, in fact, just like the book mentioned in the book), so I recognized streets and places.
I was given this book to review by Bethany House. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 8, 2016
I meant to spend the majority of my day writing, but ended up reading the rest of this book. Felt like a hedonist -- reading instead of working.
Solid, twisty, intelligent mystery novel, well-written, with developed characters and excellent dialogue. I had an initial suspicion regarding the killer, but almost as quickly as it came I dismissed it when Bertrand took the story in a different direction. Turns out, that first instinct was right. (No spoilers!)
On a side note, I couldn't find the preachiness mentioned in other reviews; perhaps some readers view any mention of church, God, or Scripture as sermonizing. (shrug) None of those mentions overwhelmed the story, but many served a storytelling purpose.
There were no meandering rabbit trails leading nowhere, which some mystery writers mistakenly employ as false leads. It's a tight story. Well done.
Recommended reading.
Solid, twisty, intelligent mystery novel, well-written, with developed characters and excellent dialogue. I had an initial suspicion regarding the killer, but almost as quickly as it came I dismissed it when Bertrand took the story in a different direction. Turns out, that first instinct was right. (No spoilers!)
On a side note, I couldn't find the preachiness mentioned in other reviews; perhaps some readers view any mention of church, God, or Scripture as sermonizing. (shrug) None of those mentions overwhelmed the story, but many served a storytelling purpose.
There were no meandering rabbit trails leading nowhere, which some mystery writers mistakenly employ as false leads. It's a tight story. Well done.
Recommended reading.
May 30, 2015
To rate a book at five stars, there has to be some "wow" for me as the book ends. Yes, I have to enjoy it along the way but it has to leave me with that "wow"--whether there is an elation or a thoughtful pause to that "wow." As I said with book one in this series, the real draw for me is the writing..the descriptions, the emotions, the contemplation, the detail, the humanity, the characters.... Despite Roland's flaws, he is a compelling character. This series deals with gritty topics without being completely creepy or depressing (both reactions are deal breakers for me when reading).
January 19, 2017
Houston homicide detective Roland March might have sent the wrong man to prison. Now when several killings take place copying the earlier crime he begins to question himself. Add to this his relationships with other Houston police and his wife and you have a very conflicted human. The story is full of twists.
April 12, 2025
Although it took me awhile to finish, it's a good mystery/suspenseful book.
August 1, 2012
First posted on my blog, Legacy of a Writer.
I had very mixed reactions with J. Mark Bertrand’s next installment to his March Roland series, Pattern of Wounds. There were parts I really liked and parts that I didn't like so much. The mystery was good with the usual twists and turns that surprised me.
Though will all that said, I’m really starting to seriously dislike Roland. He got on my nerves a LOT during Pattern of Wounds. He was just such a grump—and knew it! People would tell him all the time that he was, and he’d just be like “whatever”. The middle of the book I was ready to throw him up against the wall. Though when the plot started to thicken and the ending drew near, I was able to forget about him being an annoying jerk and get lost in the case.
The writing, in present-tense first person, was a neat change of tone for me. It’s not something I normally read, but it doesn’t take long to get used to the change. And it’s refreshing! As always, Bertrand’s writing is crisp and sharp. The writing style gives off a voice that sounds like its coming from an aging and hardened detective.
The ending really took me by surprise—as I’m sure it did many other readers. I like it that Bertrand doesn’t bring a completely “happy ending” to his mysteries. He keeps it real, realistic, and shows that while justice is served, it can’t undo the original tragedy. So all in all, Pattern of Wounds is a good mystery and one that you are liable to enjoy…if you can ignore the cynical and grumpy detective that takes you through the crime investigation!
I had very mixed reactions with J. Mark Bertrand’s next installment to his March Roland series, Pattern of Wounds. There were parts I really liked and parts that I didn't like so much. The mystery was good with the usual twists and turns that surprised me.
Though will all that said, I’m really starting to seriously dislike Roland. He got on my nerves a LOT during Pattern of Wounds. He was just such a grump—and knew it! People would tell him all the time that he was, and he’d just be like “whatever”. The middle of the book I was ready to throw him up against the wall. Though when the plot started to thicken and the ending drew near, I was able to forget about him being an annoying jerk and get lost in the case.
The writing, in present-tense first person, was a neat change of tone for me. It’s not something I normally read, but it doesn’t take long to get used to the change. And it’s refreshing! As always, Bertrand’s writing is crisp and sharp. The writing style gives off a voice that sounds like its coming from an aging and hardened detective.
The ending really took me by surprise—as I’m sure it did many other readers. I like it that Bertrand doesn’t bring a completely “happy ending” to his mysteries. He keeps it real, realistic, and shows that while justice is served, it can’t undo the original tragedy. So all in all, Pattern of Wounds is a good mystery and one that you are liable to enjoy…if you can ignore the cynical and grumpy detective that takes you through the crime investigation!
January 30, 2012
I like Christian love stories, but when it comes to suspense/thrillers, I get my fill from Lee Child, John Grisham, Robert Ludlum, and, yes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I just haven’t found a Christian author who can deliver in that department. J. Mark Bertrand may just be the exception.
Pattern of Wounds is gritty and dark. The writing is masterful; Bertrand has created a noir world that is completely absorbing.
The main character, Roland March, is the kind of wounded anti-hero that’s got you rooting for him despite all his flaws. I’m definitely looking forward to the conclusion of the series.
I’m a little surprised, actually. My first encounter with J. Mark Bertrand is Beguiled, his team-up with romance novelist Deeanne Gist. While Gist is one of my favorites, Beguiled just really failed for me. I couldn’t read past the first few chapters. And it certainly didn’t feel like Bertrand had a hand in it. It felt like a weak mystery, and an even weaker love story.
Pattern of Wounds is gritty and dark. The writing is masterful; Bertrand has created a noir world that is completely absorbing.
The main character, Roland March, is the kind of wounded anti-hero that’s got you rooting for him despite all his flaws. I’m definitely looking forward to the conclusion of the series.
I’m a little surprised, actually. My first encounter with J. Mark Bertrand is Beguiled, his team-up with romance novelist Deeanne Gist. While Gist is one of my favorites, Beguiled just really failed for me. I couldn’t read past the first few chapters. And it certainly didn’t feel like Bertrand had a hand in it. It felt like a weak mystery, and an even weaker love story.
May 2, 2016
This is book 2 of 3 of the Roland March Mystery Series and the first book I have read by this author. Starting out I didn't realize it was considered Christian fiction(not that there is anything wrong with that) which is not my usual. The story moves at a pretty good pace and keeps you guessing although about 3/4ths of the way through I was fairly sure of who the murderer was and was just waiting around to see how Bertrand was going to wrap the story up. I will say I didn't like the ending, it seemed to be setting up a cliffhanger for no reason. From what I can tell, the 3 books are stand-alones only connected by the main character, Det. Roland March.
August 1, 2018
Pattern of Wounds was the first J. Mark Bertrand book I've read, and though I was worried I would have trouble understanding it because of that, it did not make a difference at all. This one was unlike any I even had been expecting, as it followed a hardened, grieving detective through Houston to solve two grisly murders in particular. As it gave needed insight into how he saw things, the pressure of the assignment, and the competing relationship between him, who would best be described as agnostic, and the youth pastor who lived besides him who wasn't afraid to ask the tough questions. Nevertheless, these conversations did not affect the flow of the story, of the action that occurred. Since we were given the chance to experience all the horrors of the protagonist, Roland March, I found myself feeling conflicted, and anxious to find the perp.
Pattern of Wounds was a serious page turner, an brilliant mystery, and something that will keep thinking about it for years to come.
Pattern of Wounds was a serious page turner, an brilliant mystery, and something that will keep thinking about it for years to come.
May 20, 2019
I'm so glad I read this sequel to "Back on Murder"! It gripped me from the beginning! I was wrong about who the killer was, until close to the end, and then I got it right, but then, that doesn't count does it? I am not particularly thrilled with the way it ended, but it makes me excited to see how Roland March goes about redeeming his career in the next book, and what's going on with his wife. This book was written so much better than the first book that I found it extremely hard to put down. Why did it take so long for me to read it then? Well, I limit my daily reading time.
Excellent work Mr. Bertrand! Thank you for Roland March!
Excellent work Mr. Bertrand! Thank you for Roland March!
January 25, 2019
Similar to the first book of the series. The case takes twists and turns and has a very satisfying ending. A little more graphic than the first book, which I did not like. Also, this book has a slightly cliff-hanger-y ending. I get that it's the second book in a trilogy, but I think even books in a series should be able to stand on their own (which is why I don't read many book series).
April 22, 2021
First, I want to say that I do not like Roland March. I want to, but I don't. I am interested in seeing how the author develops his character in the third book of this trilogy. It is advertised as Christian fiction, but I wouldn't classify it as such. Just because some of the characters have faith doesn't make it Christian. In fact ,there is little in the story that is about faith.
July 9, 2022
A good police procedural with some interesting twists
Enjoyed to cross jurisdiction threads in the story, especially TX & LA, as well as the underlying political concerns of the mayoral runoff election. March seems to becoming aware that he may be the reason his career is always on shaky ground.
Enjoyed to cross jurisdiction threads in the story, especially TX & LA, as well as the underlying political concerns of the mayoral runoff election. March seems to becoming aware that he may be the reason his career is always on shaky ground.
May 5, 2019
Took me a long time to complete but not because it was slow or complicated; very good continuation of the Houston homicide cop trying to manage office politics, solve serial murders and keep previous case closed (tied together?); nice style, interesting characters
October 25, 2020
3.5 stars!
I found this book interesting. Detective March was a great character and I loved learning about his past and his views. However, there were parts of the book that were just boring. It was a slow burning detective book
I found this book interesting. Detective March was a great character and I loved learning about his past and his views. However, there were parts of the book that were just boring. It was a slow burning detective book
September 30, 2021
Again, good writing, interesting mystery, no nightmarish content (thankfully!).
Some intriguing discussions of evil- one very silly and one not so bad. Still waiting for this PCA pastor to show more convincing evidence that he even likes church members.
Some intriguing discussions of evil- one very silly and one not so bad. Still waiting for this PCA pastor to show more convincing evidence that he even likes church members.
December 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's fast paced and detailed - my kind of book!
October 8, 2022
A good one in keeping me from figuring who did it until 80% of the story is a positive, but also his portraying of Christian. It was refreshing to see them portrayed like Christian I know.
June 17, 2023
Same pattern as other Roland books
No one believes him, her had to do it himself, is considered in the end. At least he's learning from his mistakes. But good story telling.
No one believes him, her had to do it himself, is considered in the end. At least he's learning from his mistakes. But good story telling.
July 19, 2023
The plot intrigued me more than the first book in the series, but I still found the writing to fall short at times.
July 12, 2024
Great mystery! This one you need a bit more of a stomach for compared to the first book. The story of this one seems more like a rather mainstream type of mystery, though it still had me guessing the whole time. Would recommend
September 25, 2011
Friday, December 4th it snowed in Houston. That was yesterday and this is now on a Saturday night. While the rain falls on the city of Houston, a body lays half in and half out of the heated swimming pool behind a posh home. If you don’t look closely, it almost seems as if she is reaching for something on the pool deck.
The young woman is dead and the wounds across her back tell part of the story. Too perfect, too neat, the stab wounds aren’t what killed 24 old Simon Walker. She had been a houseguest of sorts according to Dr. Hill, the homeowner. A Doctor of Literature, she teaches at the University of Houston. Though Simon was not the first female tenant Dr. Joy Hill opened her doors to, she is the first to die on the property. Of course, Simon’s husband is the primary suspect, especially with their history of marital problems. Something else is at work in the crime too, a possible link to a ten year old murder case, though others involved don’t see it that way at all.
What Detective Roland March does know for sure is that he is on the hunt for a killer in the sequel to “Back on Murder.” This novel builds on that book while showing an author whose writing style has improved significantly. Gone is the MFA character master list checkpoint style of the first book in favor of more depth and nuance of the characters. While March’s marriage still has issues, despite the misleading jacket blurb, the rift between the couple is not growing. The rift between March and his wife, Charlotte, has changed somewhat due to reasons explained in the book. Furthermore, the theology discussion regarding good/evil and the role of God that comes up several times in the novel actually adds to the complexity of the novel and provides character depth. It also heightens the continuing sense of noir that was present in the first book and is also present here.
While Detective March remains a character on the edge, there is more of a sense of his being in control in the novel up to the last 100 pages or so. As the chase leads him to Huntsville prison, New Orleans and various points around Houston the only real question is will he get his suspect in time? Filled with complex characters, a twisting case, and plenty of nuance and action, “Pattern Of Wounds” by former Houstonian J. Mark Bertrand is a good book in the series and well worth your time.
Pattern Of Wounds: A Roland March Mystery
J. Mark Bertrand
http://www.jmarkbertrand.com
Bethany House
http://www.bethanyhouse.com
2011
ISBN# 978-0-7642-0638-2
368 Pages
Trade Paperback
$14.99
Material supplied by the good folks of the Plano, Texas Public Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple © 2011
More Reviews at http://kevintipplescorner.blogspot.com/
The young woman is dead and the wounds across her back tell part of the story. Too perfect, too neat, the stab wounds aren’t what killed 24 old Simon Walker. She had been a houseguest of sorts according to Dr. Hill, the homeowner. A Doctor of Literature, she teaches at the University of Houston. Though Simon was not the first female tenant Dr. Joy Hill opened her doors to, she is the first to die on the property. Of course, Simon’s husband is the primary suspect, especially with their history of marital problems. Something else is at work in the crime too, a possible link to a ten year old murder case, though others involved don’t see it that way at all.
What Detective Roland March does know for sure is that he is on the hunt for a killer in the sequel to “Back on Murder.” This novel builds on that book while showing an author whose writing style has improved significantly. Gone is the MFA character master list checkpoint style of the first book in favor of more depth and nuance of the characters. While March’s marriage still has issues, despite the misleading jacket blurb, the rift between the couple is not growing. The rift between March and his wife, Charlotte, has changed somewhat due to reasons explained in the book. Furthermore, the theology discussion regarding good/evil and the role of God that comes up several times in the novel actually adds to the complexity of the novel and provides character depth. It also heightens the continuing sense of noir that was present in the first book and is also present here.
While Detective March remains a character on the edge, there is more of a sense of his being in control in the novel up to the last 100 pages or so. As the chase leads him to Huntsville prison, New Orleans and various points around Houston the only real question is will he get his suspect in time? Filled with complex characters, a twisting case, and plenty of nuance and action, “Pattern Of Wounds” by former Houstonian J. Mark Bertrand is a good book in the series and well worth your time.
Pattern Of Wounds: A Roland March Mystery
J. Mark Bertrand
http://www.jmarkbertrand.com
Bethany House
http://www.bethanyhouse.com
2011
ISBN# 978-0-7642-0638-2
368 Pages
Trade Paperback
$14.99
Material supplied by the good folks of the Plano, Texas Public Library System.
Kevin R. Tipple © 2011
More Reviews at http://kevintipplescorner.blogspot.com/
December 28, 2013
The latest murder Houston homicide detective Roland March investigates seems awfully familiar. March believes that the killer staged the scene of a dead one in a pool based on pictures from the book on the first big murder he ever solved, the Kingwood Killings. While higher ups dismiss the idea, some people think there's a pattern to the book: that a serial killer was behind the latest killing, as well as several others, including March's signature case. Worst of all, the writer who lionized March becomes an adversary who believes that he and March blew the original case.
This book succeeded in upping the ante from the first book with March having to deal with the potential of his entire career being reduced to rubble by this new allegation. He has to struggle to find out who is friends are really. March is all too human character who makes enemies who are willing or even anxious to see him taken down a peg, and he struggles to find someone who he can rely on as an ally. March's big problem is that in the midst of a case, little niceties like gratitude are overlooked which only builds more resentment.
One of the more interesting character bits in this story was March's interaction with a New Orleans police officer who had officially gone dirty and begun to coerce confessions. It's scary for readers to realize that March is often just a step or two away from crossing the line, though March seems to think he's a little bit further away than he is. We also get some good back story on what had put him on the outs at the start of the previous book.
The mystery is better than in the previous book. No breaks seemed overly convenient, and Bertrand was very skilled with throwing suspect after suspect at the readers, leading to a realistic but explosive conclusion.
The only negatives I can find is that the inclusion of the Teresa, a main character from the first book felt pointless in this one and she didn't really do anything. Also, while the book description makes a point of describing March's marriage as troubled, there's very few hints of this in the actual story.
Still, a fascinating and engaging read for mystery fans that I wholeheartedly recommend.
This book succeeded in upping the ante from the first book with March having to deal with the potential of his entire career being reduced to rubble by this new allegation. He has to struggle to find out who is friends are really. March is all too human character who makes enemies who are willing or even anxious to see him taken down a peg, and he struggles to find someone who he can rely on as an ally. March's big problem is that in the midst of a case, little niceties like gratitude are overlooked which only builds more resentment.
One of the more interesting character bits in this story was March's interaction with a New Orleans police officer who had officially gone dirty and begun to coerce confessions. It's scary for readers to realize that March is often just a step or two away from crossing the line, though March seems to think he's a little bit further away than he is. We also get some good back story on what had put him on the outs at the start of the previous book.
The mystery is better than in the previous book. No breaks seemed overly convenient, and Bertrand was very skilled with throwing suspect after suspect at the readers, leading to a realistic but explosive conclusion.
The only negatives I can find is that the inclusion of the Teresa, a main character from the first book felt pointless in this one and she didn't really do anything. Also, while the book description makes a point of describing March's marriage as troubled, there's very few hints of this in the actual story.
Still, a fascinating and engaging read for mystery fans that I wholeheartedly recommend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews