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Jack Stratton #6
Jack of Hearts
This top-rated mystery-thriller series is on sale for a limited time to introduce you to the wildly popular Detective Jack Stratton Series from Wall Street Journal bestselling author Christopher Greyson. We hope you enjoy!
Jack Stratton is heading south for some fun in the sun. Already nervous about introducing his girlfriend, Alice, to his parents, the last thing Jack needed was for the dog-sitter to cancel, forcing him to bring Lady, their one-hundred-and-twenty-pound King Shepherd, on the plane with them. The dog holds Jack responsible and wants payback. On top of everything, Jack is still waiting for Alice’s answer to his marriage proposal.
When his mother and the members of her neighborhood book club ask him to catch the “Orange Blossom Cove Bandit,” a small-time thief who’s stealing garden gnomes and peace of mind from their quiet retirement community, how can Jack refuse?
The peculiar mystery proves to be more than it appears, and things take a deadly turn. Now, Jack finds it's up to him to stop a crazed killer, save his parents, and win the hand of the girl he loves—but if he survives, will it be Jack who ends up with a broken heart?
Jack of Hearts is part of the Detective Jack Stratton Mystery Series which has more than 5,000 five-star reviews and over half-a-million readers and counting. If you love a page-turning thriller with mystery, humor, and a dash of romance, pick up Jack of Hearts today.
This stand-alone novel features leading man Jack Stratton. Look for other mystery thriller books featuring Jack Stratton, including And Then She Was Gone, Girl Jacked, Jack Knifed, Jacks are Wild, Jack and the Giant Killer, Data Jack and now Jack of Hearts. They can be read in any order.
Christopher Greyson’s novel weaves a tale full of mystery and action with humor and suspense. His unique stories and no-nonsense style of writing will take you on a page-turning roller coaster ride of emotions right up to the end.
Enjoy these top-rated mystery-thriller books FREE as part of your Kindle Unlimited Prime Reading Subscription. You can read the ebooks on your Amazon Kindle Fire, on a computer via Kindle Cloud Reader or on any smartphone or tablet with the free Kindle reading app.
The Detective Jack Stratton Murder Mystery Series is featured in a number of Kindle Unlimited categories, including: murder, mystery books, thrillers, new mysteries, detective books, best sellers fiction, crime fiction novels, murder kindle unlimited books, crime thrillers, best mystery novel, murder mysteries in kindle books, mystery thriller novels, kindle crime novels, new books, paperback book series and kindle unlimited books.
Jack Stratton is heading south for some fun in the sun. Already nervous about introducing his girlfriend, Alice, to his parents, the last thing Jack needed was for the dog-sitter to cancel, forcing him to bring Lady, their one-hundred-and-twenty-pound King Shepherd, on the plane with them. The dog holds Jack responsible and wants payback. On top of everything, Jack is still waiting for Alice’s answer to his marriage proposal.
When his mother and the members of her neighborhood book club ask him to catch the “Orange Blossom Cove Bandit,” a small-time thief who’s stealing garden gnomes and peace of mind from their quiet retirement community, how can Jack refuse?
The peculiar mystery proves to be more than it appears, and things take a deadly turn. Now, Jack finds it's up to him to stop a crazed killer, save his parents, and win the hand of the girl he loves—but if he survives, will it be Jack who ends up with a broken heart?
Jack of Hearts is part of the Detective Jack Stratton Mystery Series which has more than 5,000 five-star reviews and over half-a-million readers and counting. If you love a page-turning thriller with mystery, humor, and a dash of romance, pick up Jack of Hearts today.
This stand-alone novel features leading man Jack Stratton. Look for other mystery thriller books featuring Jack Stratton, including And Then She Was Gone, Girl Jacked, Jack Knifed, Jacks are Wild, Jack and the Giant Killer, Data Jack and now Jack of Hearts. They can be read in any order.
Christopher Greyson’s novel weaves a tale full of mystery and action with humor and suspense. His unique stories and no-nonsense style of writing will take you on a page-turning roller coaster ride of emotions right up to the end.
Enjoy these top-rated mystery-thriller books FREE as part of your Kindle Unlimited Prime Reading Subscription. You can read the ebooks on your Amazon Kindle Fire, on a computer via Kindle Cloud Reader or on any smartphone or tablet with the free Kindle reading app.
The Detective Jack Stratton Murder Mystery Series is featured in a number of Kindle Unlimited categories, including: murder, mystery books, thrillers, new mysteries, detective books, best sellers fiction, crime fiction novels, murder kindle unlimited books, crime thrillers, best mystery novel, murder mysteries in kindle books, mystery thriller novels, kindle crime novels, new books, paperback book series and kindle unlimited books.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2017
About the author
Christopher Greyson
53 books1,013 followersMy name is Christopher Greyson, and I am a storyteller.
Since I was a little boy, I have dreamt of what mystery was around the next corner, or what quest lay over the hill. If I couldn’t find an adventure, one usually found me, and now I weave those tales into my stories. I am blessed to have written over twenty novels.
My love for tales of mystery and adventure began with my grandfather, a decorated World War I hero. I will never forget being introduced to his friend, a WWI pilot who flew across the skies at the same time as the feared, legendary Red Baron. My love of reading and storytelling eventually led me to write and it’s the best job I’ve ever had.
I love to hear from my readers. Please visit ChristopherGreyson.com, where you can become a preferred reader, download an exclusive Jack Stratton mystery, and receive advanced notifications of book releases and more! Please follow Detective Jack Stratton on Twitter @chris_greyson and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherG.... Thank you for reading my novels. I hope my stories have brightened your day.
Sincerely,
Christopher Greyson
Since I was a little boy, I have dreamt of what mystery was around the next corner, or what quest lay over the hill. If I couldn’t find an adventure, one usually found me, and now I weave those tales into my stories. I am blessed to have written over twenty novels.
My love for tales of mystery and adventure began with my grandfather, a decorated World War I hero. I will never forget being introduced to his friend, a WWI pilot who flew across the skies at the same time as the feared, legendary Red Baron. My love of reading and storytelling eventually led me to write and it’s the best job I’ve ever had.
I love to hear from my readers. Please visit ChristopherGreyson.com, where you can become a preferred reader, download an exclusive Jack Stratton mystery, and receive advanced notifications of book releases and more! Please follow Detective Jack Stratton on Twitter @chris_greyson and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ChristopherG.... Thank you for reading my novels. I hope my stories have brightened your day.
Sincerely,
Christopher Greyson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
August 7, 2017
I loved, loved, loved this book - A definite hit!!!
Jack of Hearts by Christopher Greyson is a fun, hilarious, page-turning thrill ride from beginning to end!
Things take a deadly turn when Jack, Alice, and Lady their oversized dog, are in Florida visiting his parents. A small town thief, the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit", is stealing from the retirement community where Jack's parents live. Jack's mother and the members of her retirement community book club enlist Jack to investigate the thefts. The mystery seems to be more than what it is - now Jack finds himself trying to stop a deranged killer. Can Jack save the day? On top of all this, Jack is still waiting for Alice to give him an answer to his marriage proposal. Will Alice finally say yes or will Jack end up with a broken heart?
This is the first book I have read by Christopher Greyson, and I can tell you, it definitely won't be the last. Highly recommend!
*I want to thank NetGalley and Greyson Media, LLC for the ARC.
Jack of Hearts by Christopher Greyson is a fun, hilarious, page-turning thrill ride from beginning to end!
Things take a deadly turn when Jack, Alice, and Lady their oversized dog, are in Florida visiting his parents. A small town thief, the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit", is stealing from the retirement community where Jack's parents live. Jack's mother and the members of her retirement community book club enlist Jack to investigate the thefts. The mystery seems to be more than what it is - now Jack finds himself trying to stop a deranged killer. Can Jack save the day? On top of all this, Jack is still waiting for Alice to give him an answer to his marriage proposal. Will Alice finally say yes or will Jack end up with a broken heart?
This is the first book I have read by Christopher Greyson, and I can tell you, it definitely won't be the last. Highly recommend!
*I want to thank NetGalley and Greyson Media, LLC for the ARC.
July 31, 2017
This is the first book I've read in this series, but when I had the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I checked out the description. That, and learning that all the books can be read as stand-alones in any order, convinced me to give it a go.
And by golly, I enjoyed it. It's got a solid plot with enough action to keep things interesting, although I'd describe it as much closer to a cozy mystery than a "thriller." There's the requisite cozy romance - this time between the hero, detective Jack Stratton, and the woman he wants to marry, investigator Alice - but I must say for two people who supposedly are in love, I sensed no real romantic vibe between the two of them. There's also a group of elderly ladies who can't keep their noses out of police business despite being told repeatedly that they'd just gum up the investigation (also a cozy requirement in some form or other). And inexplicably, Alice - supposedly a professional investigator herself - goes along with the hijinks they concoct. There's zero sex, no graphic violence even though murders happen and even the barest of hints of religion. All that said, the whole thing comes together in a fun, fast-paced adventure that made me look forward to reading the next one.
The story begins as Jack is taking Alice to Florida to meet his parents for the first time. They get stuck bringing Lady, his oversize King Shepherd, along for the ride (stuck in the cargo hold, where she's none too happy). Jack is a bit nervous, although mostly because when he popped the question to Alice recently, she didn't give him an enthusiastic response. Not surprisingly, Jack's parents welcome Alice with open arms - but notably, also with separate sleeping quarters. And immediately, they are taken to Lady as well (bless their hearts - I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be that welcoming to a brute the size of Lady in my house, no matter how sweet she is).
Soon, Jack and Alice learn of a series of petty thefts carried out by someone known in the retirement community as the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit" and meet a group of ladies who belong to a book club who are determined to catch the perp. Meantime, another story line takes shape as Curtis Dixon, under the watchful eye of his evil elderly aunt, commits robberies that culminate in murder in the same community. Surely, I thought to myself, murder would be the first topic of discussion for Jack's parents and the other elderly folks who live here rather than trinkets like gone-missing solar-powered crowing roosters - but then that's just me; pink flamingos are the only non-living thing allowed to set foot in my yard, and who'd even consider stealing them? In the midst of all this isn't enough, unbeknownst to Alice, Jack has been trying to track down information on her family; her parents, it seems, were killed in an automobile crash many years ago that she alone survived.
So insistent are the book club ladies that Jack, a former policeman, find the garden thief that he just can't say no to their demands for help - especially since one of them is his mother, for goodness sake. He's got a week before he and Alice must return to their normal lives; can they solve the case in time? And will the robbery/murder incidents somehow tie into on their efforts, perhaps putting lives of people they love on the line? And maybe most important, is there anything Jack can do to convince Alice to say yes?
Like a jar of Prego spaghetti sauce, it's all in there - but you'll just have to open the jar and find it for yourself.
And by golly, I enjoyed it. It's got a solid plot with enough action to keep things interesting, although I'd describe it as much closer to a cozy mystery than a "thriller." There's the requisite cozy romance - this time between the hero, detective Jack Stratton, and the woman he wants to marry, investigator Alice - but I must say for two people who supposedly are in love, I sensed no real romantic vibe between the two of them. There's also a group of elderly ladies who can't keep their noses out of police business despite being told repeatedly that they'd just gum up the investigation (also a cozy requirement in some form or other). And inexplicably, Alice - supposedly a professional investigator herself - goes along with the hijinks they concoct. There's zero sex, no graphic violence even though murders happen and even the barest of hints of religion. All that said, the whole thing comes together in a fun, fast-paced adventure that made me look forward to reading the next one.
The story begins as Jack is taking Alice to Florida to meet his parents for the first time. They get stuck bringing Lady, his oversize King Shepherd, along for the ride (stuck in the cargo hold, where she's none too happy). Jack is a bit nervous, although mostly because when he popped the question to Alice recently, she didn't give him an enthusiastic response. Not surprisingly, Jack's parents welcome Alice with open arms - but notably, also with separate sleeping quarters. And immediately, they are taken to Lady as well (bless their hearts - I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be that welcoming to a brute the size of Lady in my house, no matter how sweet she is).
Soon, Jack and Alice learn of a series of petty thefts carried out by someone known in the retirement community as the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit" and meet a group of ladies who belong to a book club who are determined to catch the perp. Meantime, another story line takes shape as Curtis Dixon, under the watchful eye of his evil elderly aunt, commits robberies that culminate in murder in the same community. Surely, I thought to myself, murder would be the first topic of discussion for Jack's parents and the other elderly folks who live here rather than trinkets like gone-missing solar-powered crowing roosters - but then that's just me; pink flamingos are the only non-living thing allowed to set foot in my yard, and who'd even consider stealing them? In the midst of all this isn't enough, unbeknownst to Alice, Jack has been trying to track down information on her family; her parents, it seems, were killed in an automobile crash many years ago that she alone survived.
So insistent are the book club ladies that Jack, a former policeman, find the garden thief that he just can't say no to their demands for help - especially since one of them is his mother, for goodness sake. He's got a week before he and Alice must return to their normal lives; can they solve the case in time? And will the robbery/murder incidents somehow tie into on their efforts, perhaps putting lives of people they love on the line? And maybe most important, is there anything Jack can do to convince Alice to say yes?
Like a jar of Prego spaghetti sauce, it's all in there - but you'll just have to open the jar and find it for yourself.
April 24, 2019
The blurb for this says while it is book 6 it is also a stand alone. As much as I enjoyed it I think I did need to have read the previous books. Or maybe some background in America policing. The title says Detective, he used to work as a Sheriff; there's talk he's out of the game after being shot but yet everyone still calls him a policeman despite me reading that he wished he still was a policeman. So who on earth is he? Probably I'd find out if I'd read the previous books so I don't think it works as a stand alone.
Apart from that though I really enjoyed this book. It's more cosier than I expected from the title and there's a lot of humour in the story as Jack helps his parents solve a string of crimes in their retirement home. It's fast paced. The characters are a lot of fun especially the old folks. I loved the sub plot in tracking down the details of Alice's parents death. It's an enjoyable romp and I really enjoyed it.
Apart from that though I really enjoyed this book. It's more cosier than I expected from the title and there's a lot of humour in the story as Jack helps his parents solve a string of crimes in their retirement home. It's fast paced. The characters are a lot of fun especially the old folks. I loved the sub plot in tracking down the details of Alice's parents death. It's an enjoyable romp and I really enjoyed it.
July 16, 2017
If you are a person who reads a lot but few books have a funny side; then pick "Jack of Hearts" up. Love the way Greyson tells a tale of Mystery with amazing characters. This novel has a great deal going for it - - Humor, Amazing Characters, A Puppy, The bad guy, The Hero, Heart felt relationships. Addresses the fear of parents aging and the goal of new beginnings! This is not my first "Jack" book and look forward to the next one. Stands alone without cliff-hanger. "A copy of this book was provided to me by Greyson Media, LLC via NetGalley` with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read and my comments here are my honest opinion."
July 29, 2017
14/8/17 Jack of Hearts
****
I would like to thank Netgalley and Greyson Media Associates for an advance copy of Jack of Hearts, the seventh novel featuring Jack Stratton.
Jack is in Florida introducing his girlfriend, Alice, to his parents. His mother and her seniors crime book club gradually inveigle him into helping them find The Orange Blossom Cove Bandit who has been stealing small items from the retirement community residents.
I enjoyed Jack of Hearts which is a fun, lighthearted read with plenty of action and laughs. Some of the slapstick scenes and one liners had me laughing out loud - "Golden Girl Commando Squad" and the events surrounding its usage were a particular favourite.
Laughs aside the novel is well plotted and paced. The plot itself isn't particularly deep but it's well thought out and fits the humour of the novel well. The pace is good - there's always something going on to keep the reader interested and turning the pages.
The characters, apart from the baddies, are all likeable from the zany retirees to Jack, Alice and their dog, Lady.
I have not read this series before so I was pleasantly surprised by the fun in it and would not be averse to reading more. Recommended.
****
I would like to thank Netgalley and Greyson Media Associates for an advance copy of Jack of Hearts, the seventh novel featuring Jack Stratton.
Jack is in Florida introducing his girlfriend, Alice, to his parents. His mother and her seniors crime book club gradually inveigle him into helping them find The Orange Blossom Cove Bandit who has been stealing small items from the retirement community residents.
I enjoyed Jack of Hearts which is a fun, lighthearted read with plenty of action and laughs. Some of the slapstick scenes and one liners had me laughing out loud - "Golden Girl Commando Squad" and the events surrounding its usage were a particular favourite.
Laughs aside the novel is well plotted and paced. The plot itself isn't particularly deep but it's well thought out and fits the humour of the novel well. The pace is good - there's always something going on to keep the reader interested and turning the pages.
The characters, apart from the baddies, are all likeable from the zany retirees to Jack, Alice and their dog, Lady.
I have not read this series before so I was pleasantly surprised by the fun in it and would not be averse to reading more. Recommended.
August 13, 2017
I recieved an ARC of Jack of Hearts.
I received my copy of Jack of Hearts in the afternoon and by bedtime I was finished. I could not put the book down. I thouroughly enjoyed Christopher Greyson's new Jack Stratton book!
I stumbled upon the Jack Stratton series a few years ago. I was an instant fan. I loved the relationship between Jack and Lady! The whole book could have been about them as a crime fighting duo and I would buy and read every book.
Jack's back story was endearing. Here is a man who came from the worst childhood, was taken into foster care by a wonderful woman, Aunt Hattie, and was absorbed into a loving family unit, along with Michelle and Connor. At an older age than normal he was adopted by a loving couple who allowed him to keep that relationship with the only family he ever knew, and from there he lived a very nice life.
After Data Jacked I almost decided to quit reading any further books because I was tired of the way Jack and Alice were going. She was making a mess of his life, lost his respectable job for him due to her hacking, barged into his life, took over, was demanding and he lived under a constant guilt trip. I know many readers love her character, but I grew to despise what her character was doing to the character I loved.
Then the release of And Then She Was Gone sparked that interest I had when I first started the series. I loved it. This book was dedicated to Jack Stratton. He was approaching graduation, still at home with Laura and Ted Stratton. It was a pleasure to read about his family unit, the loving relationship with his parents, his early investigations with Connor, his dreams of joining the police force. This was a breath of fresh air.
I was very excited when I was offered an ARC of Jack Of Hearts. I enjoyed the book from page one. It starts off very interesting, keeps a great pace, and brings in a whole new cast of characters.
Jack, Alice and Lady are visiting the Strattons in Florida. It is heartwarming to see more of that loving relationship Jack has with his parents. The pride his mother and father feel for him is abundantly clear.
I felt the writing was better, in the sense that Jack's character was not being written as the oaf that is outsmarted by Alice, or being demeaned and emasculated at every turn.
Jack, along with Alice, was given a loving welcome to his parent's Senior Community. Jack is, once again, the ingenious detective he started out as. His mother, while obviously bragging about her son, has offered his services to the Senior Community where they reside. The mystery and suspense builds and the book takes turns I never anticipated.
I can not wait for the next book! My excitement for this series has been renewed.
I received my copy of Jack of Hearts in the afternoon and by bedtime I was finished. I could not put the book down. I thouroughly enjoyed Christopher Greyson's new Jack Stratton book!
I stumbled upon the Jack Stratton series a few years ago. I was an instant fan. I loved the relationship between Jack and Lady! The whole book could have been about them as a crime fighting duo and I would buy and read every book.
Jack's back story was endearing. Here is a man who came from the worst childhood, was taken into foster care by a wonderful woman, Aunt Hattie, and was absorbed into a loving family unit, along with Michelle and Connor. At an older age than normal he was adopted by a loving couple who allowed him to keep that relationship with the only family he ever knew, and from there he lived a very nice life.
After Data Jacked I almost decided to quit reading any further books because I was tired of the way Jack and Alice were going. She was making a mess of his life, lost his respectable job for him due to her hacking, barged into his life, took over, was demanding and he lived under a constant guilt trip. I know many readers love her character, but I grew to despise what her character was doing to the character I loved.
Then the release of And Then She Was Gone sparked that interest I had when I first started the series. I loved it. This book was dedicated to Jack Stratton. He was approaching graduation, still at home with Laura and Ted Stratton. It was a pleasure to read about his family unit, the loving relationship with his parents, his early investigations with Connor, his dreams of joining the police force. This was a breath of fresh air.
I was very excited when I was offered an ARC of Jack Of Hearts. I enjoyed the book from page one. It starts off very interesting, keeps a great pace, and brings in a whole new cast of characters.
Jack, Alice and Lady are visiting the Strattons in Florida. It is heartwarming to see more of that loving relationship Jack has with his parents. The pride his mother and father feel for him is abundantly clear.
I felt the writing was better, in the sense that Jack's character was not being written as the oaf that is outsmarted by Alice, or being demeaned and emasculated at every turn.
Jack, along with Alice, was given a loving welcome to his parent's Senior Community. Jack is, once again, the ingenious detective he started out as. His mother, while obviously bragging about her son, has offered his services to the Senior Community where they reside. The mystery and suspense builds and the book takes turns I never anticipated.
I can not wait for the next book! My excitement for this series has been renewed.
September 26, 2017
I have read all of the Jack Stratton books and loved each one. This one is a bit sweeter and sillier than the previous ones, but with promise of more to come. I can't wait.
August 15, 2017
Big thanks to Netgalley and the author, Christopher Greyson, for the advanced ebook copy in exchange for my honest review.
Do you like your thrillers with a side of comedy? Well, if you do, then Christopher Greyson's JACK OF HEARTS is the novel for you. Book 7 in the Jack Stratton series, but it does read well as a standalone. However, I think the relationships between the characters (and more of Jack's background) would be fun to learn more about from previous novels.
Jack Stratton, former police detective, is heading south to Florida with his girlfriend, Alice, and unfortunately they're giant King Shepard, Lady. Not only does he have to deal with the stress of introducing Alice to his parents, but he's also anxiously waiting for her response to his marriage proposal. While visiting, his mother her neighborhood book club members ask for his expertise in catching a thief known as the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit". His crime? He's been stealing the garden gnomes in the retirement community - and their peace of mind.
What seemed like an easy case to solve, has now taken a deadly turn. Jack now finds himself trying to catch a killer all while keeping his family safe, dealing with a disgruntled dog, nosy book club members, AND trying to win the hand of Alice. Will he be able to do it all and not have his heart broken?
This book definitely had a lot going on. That being said, it wasn't a bad thing. It didn't feel too cluttered as you were reading it. Sometimes authors try to pack too much into a story or plot and they lose the reader, but that's not the case with JACK OF HEARTS. Even though I'm behind a few books in this series, Greyson does a great job still developing the characters. If you aren't a fan of humor with your murder mysteries, then you'll probably want to keep moving. After reading a couple of these genre hybrids (TEN DEAD COMEDIANS and THE DRIVER) I've come to really enjoy them!
So, if you want a good murder mystery and comedy combined, then I'd highly recommend picking up JACK OF HEARTS, or any of the Jack Stratton series.
I give this one 4.5/5 stars!
Do you like your thrillers with a side of comedy? Well, if you do, then Christopher Greyson's JACK OF HEARTS is the novel for you. Book 7 in the Jack Stratton series, but it does read well as a standalone. However, I think the relationships between the characters (and more of Jack's background) would be fun to learn more about from previous novels.
Jack Stratton, former police detective, is heading south to Florida with his girlfriend, Alice, and unfortunately they're giant King Shepard, Lady. Not only does he have to deal with the stress of introducing Alice to his parents, but he's also anxiously waiting for her response to his marriage proposal. While visiting, his mother her neighborhood book club members ask for his expertise in catching a thief known as the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit". His crime? He's been stealing the garden gnomes in the retirement community - and their peace of mind.
What seemed like an easy case to solve, has now taken a deadly turn. Jack now finds himself trying to catch a killer all while keeping his family safe, dealing with a disgruntled dog, nosy book club members, AND trying to win the hand of Alice. Will he be able to do it all and not have his heart broken?
This book definitely had a lot going on. That being said, it wasn't a bad thing. It didn't feel too cluttered as you were reading it. Sometimes authors try to pack too much into a story or plot and they lose the reader, but that's not the case with JACK OF HEARTS. Even though I'm behind a few books in this series, Greyson does a great job still developing the characters. If you aren't a fan of humor with your murder mysteries, then you'll probably want to keep moving. After reading a couple of these genre hybrids (TEN DEAD COMEDIANS and THE DRIVER) I've come to really enjoy them!
So, if you want a good murder mystery and comedy combined, then I'd highly recommend picking up JACK OF HEARTS, or any of the Jack Stratton series.
I give this one 4.5/5 stars!
August 18, 2017
Well, it seems as if I've jumped into the middle of a series again. I have found that with most continuing series, the characters have gotten to know each other over time and there is a lot of background and insider knowledge that you might not get as a first-time reader. Rather like joining a sorority as a senior when all the rest of the girls have been together since their freshman year. You are just not going to get some of the jokes.
The question then arises, does this affect the story? Not in this case. Curiosity about the earlier volumes is certainly there but the tale itself hangs on its own. And I am certain that they all hang together! Feel free to criticize me for my bad pun.
This particular cozy mystery involves a not very gated retirement community in Florida. We know from the outset that a villain is on the loose and killing people. We know that he enjoys killing people and looks for excuses to do so. We also know he is under the iron thumb of his aunt. The main protagonists, however, know none of this and we get to watch them starting with a blank slate, trying to solve the mystery. I can see a separate string of mysteries featuring the book club detectives may be in our future.
Things start out fairly calmly and cozily but toward the end the tension escalates dramatically.
Be prepared for swamps and 'gators, dogs and geriatrics (no children!), guns and garden gnomes. And bingo.
Disclaimer: I found a copy of this book on Netgalley and voluntarily chose to read and review it.
The question then arises, does this affect the story? Not in this case. Curiosity about the earlier volumes is certainly there but the tale itself hangs on its own. And I am certain that they all hang together! Feel free to criticize me for my bad pun.
This particular cozy mystery involves a not very gated retirement community in Florida. We know from the outset that a villain is on the loose and killing people. We know that he enjoys killing people and looks for excuses to do so. We also know he is under the iron thumb of his aunt. The main protagonists, however, know none of this and we get to watch them starting with a blank slate, trying to solve the mystery. I can see a separate string of mysteries featuring the book club detectives may be in our future.
Things start out fairly calmly and cozily but toward the end the tension escalates dramatically.
Be prepared for swamps and 'gators, dogs and geriatrics (no children!), guns and garden gnomes. And bingo.
Disclaimer: I found a copy of this book on Netgalley and voluntarily chose to read and review it.
August 14, 2017
Jack Stratton Solves Thefts in a Florida Retirement Community
Jack Stratton is visiting his parents in the Orange Blossom Cove Retirement Community in Florida to introduce Alice to them. Jack proposed marriage before they left, but with Alice things never go as planned.
When Jack, Alice, and Lady, their enormous dog, arrive in Florida the community is bedeviled by a series of thefts. Nothing of serious value has been taken, although the prologue hints at something darker. The residents are concerned and have formed a committee to catch the thief, known as the Orange Blossom Cove Bandit. Laura, Jack’s mother is so proud of him she told the committee that he will help solve the mystery. This generous offer leads to unforeseen complications.
Jack’s parents, Laura and Ted, are impressive characters. They love each other and are very proud of their son. They’re also involved with the community and enjoy their amusing neighbors. The retirement community is peopled by a series of zany seniors. They are stereotypical of what people think of as elders, but they’re fun and add a light touch to the novel.
The romance between Alice and Jack seems destined to go on forever as a never completed action. However, this book may surprise you. The atmosphere of love and caring surrounding Jack’s parents opens the door for a rather different ending.
I enjoyed the book. The pace is fast; the retirement community scenes, well done; and the plot is full of twists. If you like Jack Stratton mysteries, this is one of the best. If you’re new to the series, it’s not a bad place to start.
I received this book from Net Galley for this review.
Jack Stratton is visiting his parents in the Orange Blossom Cove Retirement Community in Florida to introduce Alice to them. Jack proposed marriage before they left, but with Alice things never go as planned.
When Jack, Alice, and Lady, their enormous dog, arrive in Florida the community is bedeviled by a series of thefts. Nothing of serious value has been taken, although the prologue hints at something darker. The residents are concerned and have formed a committee to catch the thief, known as the Orange Blossom Cove Bandit. Laura, Jack’s mother is so proud of him she told the committee that he will help solve the mystery. This generous offer leads to unforeseen complications.
Jack’s parents, Laura and Ted, are impressive characters. They love each other and are very proud of their son. They’re also involved with the community and enjoy their amusing neighbors. The retirement community is peopled by a series of zany seniors. They are stereotypical of what people think of as elders, but they’re fun and add a light touch to the novel.
The romance between Alice and Jack seems destined to go on forever as a never completed action. However, this book may surprise you. The atmosphere of love and caring surrounding Jack’s parents opens the door for a rather different ending.
I enjoyed the book. The pace is fast; the retirement community scenes, well done; and the plot is full of twists. If you like Jack Stratton mysteries, this is one of the best. If you’re new to the series, it’s not a bad place to start.
I received this book from Net Galley for this review.
August 20, 2017
Jack Stratton is back again with another compelling and exciting mystery! A very entertaining read!
I truly enjoy the Jack Stratton book series! Always vividly written with the right amount of detail! The amount to keep the story rolling at a good clip, compelling in it's content and vividly bringing the scenes and dialogue into sharp view!
This author really knows how to weave a story that pulls you in with it's promise of suspense and intensity. He includes real life issues and it's sometimes unusual problems, it's humor and surprises, he then blends in the mystery and thrilling events of the story. There is an exciting ending that puts it all on the line for Jack! Another terrific outing with Jack and Alice -- and don't forget, Lady!
I truly enjoy the Jack Stratton book series! Always vividly written with the right amount of detail! The amount to keep the story rolling at a good clip, compelling in it's content and vividly bringing the scenes and dialogue into sharp view!
This author really knows how to weave a story that pulls you in with it's promise of suspense and intensity. He includes real life issues and it's sometimes unusual problems, it's humor and surprises, he then blends in the mystery and thrilling events of the story. There is an exciting ending that puts it all on the line for Jack! Another terrific outing with Jack and Alice -- and don't forget, Lady!
October 13, 2017
5*++stars REALLY
I WAS SO GLAD TO MEET UP WITH SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHARACTERS IN THIS SERIES. I LOVE THE PARENTS, LADY, JACK & ALICE (aka replacement) THEY ARE SO FUNNY TOGETHER. I’VE READ ALL OF THE JACK STRATTON BOOKS AND THIS ONE DIDN’T DISSAPPOINT ME. IT’S FUNNY HOW IN SOME WAYS YOUR NEVER GONNA BE GROWN UP ENOUGH WHERE YOUR PARENTS ARE CONCERNED. PARENTS CAN STILL GIVE YOU A LOOK OR A GESTURE AND YOU CAN REVERT RIGHT BACK TO CHILDHOOD. I THINK THEY ENJOY LETTING YOU KNOW YOU’RE NEVER THAT GROWN UP. HA HA HA! ;D
I WAS SO GLAD TO MEET UP WITH SOME OF MY FAVORITE CHARACTERS IN THIS SERIES. I LOVE THE PARENTS, LADY, JACK & ALICE (aka replacement) THEY ARE SO FUNNY TOGETHER. I’VE READ ALL OF THE JACK STRATTON BOOKS AND THIS ONE DIDN’T DISSAPPOINT ME. IT’S FUNNY HOW IN SOME WAYS YOUR NEVER GONNA BE GROWN UP ENOUGH WHERE YOUR PARENTS ARE CONCERNED. PARENTS CAN STILL GIVE YOU A LOOK OR A GESTURE AND YOU CAN REVERT RIGHT BACK TO CHILDHOOD. I THINK THEY ENJOY LETTING YOU KNOW YOU’RE NEVER THAT GROWN UP. HA HA HA! ;D
August 18, 2017
Fantastic read
I gave this book 5 stars because it has mystery, humor, romance and family devotion all rolled together. This book is fantastic. The author has made the characters so real you can relate to them and to their situations. It was truly hard to put this book down! The mystery keeps going to the very end. Great writing Mr Greyson, can't wait for the next in this series.
I gave this book 5 stars because it has mystery, humor, romance and family devotion all rolled together. This book is fantastic. The author has made the characters so real you can relate to them and to their situations. It was truly hard to put this book down! The mystery keeps going to the very end. Great writing Mr Greyson, can't wait for the next in this series.
August 20, 2017
Jack of Hearts
Another Jack Stratton-Christopher Grayson great read. The perfect mixture of mystery, mayhem, warmth, feel goodness. I truly enjoy the antics of our characters Jack and Alice and our King Shepard Lady. Can't wait for the next book, Jack Frost!
Another Jack Stratton-Christopher Grayson great read. The perfect mixture of mystery, mayhem, warmth, feel goodness. I truly enjoy the antics of our characters Jack and Alice and our King Shepard Lady. Can't wait for the next book, Jack Frost!
July 23, 2017
I really loved this whole series. I couldn't wait for book 5 and the author was kind enough to send me an advance readers copy.
I liked the fact that we got to know a little more about Jack's parents. For those of us with aging parents, their story really hits home. Mr. Greyson did a great job of making you feel like you were part of their family as well.
This is book 5 in a 5 part (so far?) series. In my opinion, books 1-4 drew me in a little tighter and we're a little more suspenseful. The villain wasn't quite as villainous and Jack and Alice seemed a little off. Lady was perfect as always. Jack does what he does best - solve mysteries. Alice tended to stay a little more in the background as far as solving the actual crime.
Don't get me wrong, i still love the whole series and if you've read the other 4 and enjoyed them, you'll enjoy this one as well. Now I can't wait for #6
I liked the fact that we got to know a little more about Jack's parents. For those of us with aging parents, their story really hits home. Mr. Greyson did a great job of making you feel like you were part of their family as well.
This is book 5 in a 5 part (so far?) series. In my opinion, books 1-4 drew me in a little tighter and we're a little more suspenseful. The villain wasn't quite as villainous and Jack and Alice seemed a little off. Lady was perfect as always. Jack does what he does best - solve mysteries. Alice tended to stay a little more in the background as far as solving the actual crime.
Don't get me wrong, i still love the whole series and if you've read the other 4 and enjoyed them, you'll enjoy this one as well. Now I can't wait for #6
July 28, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and I am so glad I did. I am going to have to start at the beginning of the series now. I absolutely loved this book. The author has a way of making you feel like you are a part of the story and keeps you hooked from the first page until the last.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book with no compensation.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book with no compensation.
August 7, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is an excellent combination of humor, mystery, family reality and romance. Jack flies to Florida with his girlfriend, Alice, to visit his parents. Things are off to a bad start as their relationship has been freshly strained and they have a third, unexpected member in their party. Once they've arrived at the senior village things are not right. There seems to be a thief in the midst. The book is a wild ride of humorous conversation and activities along with a well plotted mystery.
This is my first Detective Jack Stratton novel and I'll be looking for more of Christopher Greyson's books to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
This is my first Detective Jack Stratton novel and I'll be looking for more of Christopher Greyson's books to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book.
July 16, 2017
I received an Advance Readers Copy of this book and just finished it. What a delight! I laughed so much at the antics of Lady, the King Shepherd. I can see how she would terrorize someone just by sheer size alone. The "fun" begins when Lady, Jack and his girlfriend, Alice, visit his parents in Florida. Of course it doesn't take long until they are embroiled in solving a mystery in the senior community where the parents live. The pace was fast, the mystery was interesting and the bit of romance was sweet. I especially connected to events and places as I, too, live in Florida. Thanks for a fun read, Christopher Greyson and thanks for sending me your book to review. Very enjoyable.
July 15, 2017
oh my goodness at times this book made me laugh so hard I thought I was going to cry. Jack's and Alice's dog was so funny, he really made the book. I also loved all the characters (they were so believable as was the whole story.) I figured out what was happening early on but the little side stories made me want to read on and find out if I was right.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2017
An enjoyable light mystery novel that could easily be read in an afternoon. The characters were realistic and the storyline moved along without any hesitation. This is the first time I have read a Jack Stratton novel and after reading the brief descriptions of prior novels, at the end, I feel I would have had a better feel for the characters if I had read the entire series. This is not a criticism only an observation for my own benefit as the novel easily had a beginning, middle and ending.
I have rated this book 4 stars.
I obtained an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.
I have rated this book 4 stars.
I obtained an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review.
December 17, 2018
A good , quick read. I appreciate the truth in advertising - '...filled with Action, Humor and a dash of Romance.'
August 27, 2017
Finally, a cozy mystery series with a male lead character. Jack of Hearts, by Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Christopher Greyson, is a cozy mystery that's not quite as cozy as usual. This was a quick, easy read with an intriguing mystery, some good laughs, and just a little romance that kept me turning pages on my e-reader late into the night. Jack of Hearts, published August 14, 2017, is the 10th book in this wildly popular series. I will definitely be reading the whole series as soon as possible.
Jack Stratton, a former police officer, and his almost-fiance, Alice, along with Jack's huge police dog, Lady, have flown to visit his parents in their small Florida retirement community. Expecting a relaxing vacation in the sunshine state, they quickly learn the timing of the visit is perfect for Jack to assist in solving a neighborhood crime spree -- and having Lady along is a big plus.
The crime events reveal one more method used to scam retirees, but not to get their life savings. This one had an administrative employee connected to drug dealers and a small-time thief. The residents have named him The Orange Blossom Cove Bandit.
Along with a compelling story, Greyson introduces important topics such as the reason soldiers seem standoffish. When Jack has a close call he realizes the trauma experienced by soldiers seeing their friends and fellow soldiers die in combat, and reminds them at a deep level how fragile life is. He understands that becoming romantically involved with someone can mean emotional devastation if something happens to that person.
Through his characters, Greyson also touched on public health issues such as Jack's father's heart disease and the leathery appearance human skin takes on after too much exposure to the sun. As a public health educator, I find this method of disseminating information in every way possible to be brilliant. Kudos to Greyson for subtly slipping this into his narrative.
I loved this book. Cozy mystery lovers everywhere will love it, too.
What Makes This Book Reviewer Grumpy?
Greyson's comments about retirement communities were a bit off the mark. Not everyone in these communities is elderly; many are active, healthy adults. Jack's father told him that one never knows whether a neighbor will be exiting his home alive. Also, Jack mentioned old men in bathrobes, and old women in hairnets gathering in front of one home after a break-in. Does anyone other than restaurant kitchen staff wear hairnets?
Also, the usual split infinitives, and Improper word usage: loan vs. lend.
You can find me online as The Grumpy Book Reviewer.
Jack Stratton, a former police officer, and his almost-fiance, Alice, along with Jack's huge police dog, Lady, have flown to visit his parents in their small Florida retirement community. Expecting a relaxing vacation in the sunshine state, they quickly learn the timing of the visit is perfect for Jack to assist in solving a neighborhood crime spree -- and having Lady along is a big plus.
The crime events reveal one more method used to scam retirees, but not to get their life savings. This one had an administrative employee connected to drug dealers and a small-time thief. The residents have named him The Orange Blossom Cove Bandit.
Along with a compelling story, Greyson introduces important topics such as the reason soldiers seem standoffish. When Jack has a close call he realizes the trauma experienced by soldiers seeing their friends and fellow soldiers die in combat, and reminds them at a deep level how fragile life is. He understands that becoming romantically involved with someone can mean emotional devastation if something happens to that person.
Through his characters, Greyson also touched on public health issues such as Jack's father's heart disease and the leathery appearance human skin takes on after too much exposure to the sun. As a public health educator, I find this method of disseminating information in every way possible to be brilliant. Kudos to Greyson for subtly slipping this into his narrative.
I loved this book. Cozy mystery lovers everywhere will love it, too.
What Makes This Book Reviewer Grumpy?
Greyson's comments about retirement communities were a bit off the mark. Not everyone in these communities is elderly; many are active, healthy adults. Jack's father told him that one never knows whether a neighbor will be exiting his home alive. Also, Jack mentioned old men in bathrobes, and old women in hairnets gathering in front of one home after a break-in. Does anyone other than restaurant kitchen staff wear hairnets?
Also, the usual split infinitives, and Improper word usage: loan vs. lend.
You can find me online as The Grumpy Book Reviewer.
August 12, 2017
Jack of Hearts is marketed as part of a "Mystery Thriller Series", but to me this book is far more of a cozy mystery. We have the silly humor typical of that genre, along with characters whose behavior tends toward outrageous. I was expecting the touted "thriller", and so the silliness of the content threw me off.
The writing is good and the story moves along quickly. We're immersed in Jack's parents' world, with an aging cast of wannabe detectives. We go along with Jack as he investigates, untangling the mess and sorting the clues.
Honestly, I couldn't take much of this story seriously. I found myself doing the eye roll thing at some of the antics. Yes, there are humorous moments, such as an episode with an alligator, but it all seemed pushed to the extreme of plausibility. Much of the time I felt like I was chasing around wayward adolescents.
Jack and Alice's dog, Lady, plays a big roll in this story. I love dogs, but, again, this was a little too much. Lady is enormous and, apparently, untrained. Jack and Alice, a professional couple, have a 120-pound dog yanking them around at will. Humorous, yes, but I wanted more maturity and responsibility from Jack and Alice. Take the dog to a trainer already.
Jack and Alice are supposed to be deeply in love, yet I felt nothing from them. Not a hint of romance, until one scene at the end. And absolutely no physical interest in one another. Are they ever intimate? I don't know, but they seemed to have a hands-off policy.
The villains in this story are too ridiculous to terrorize. I have no idea how they managed to get by as long as they did. The mystery behind what they were doing was really no mystery at all. Why they chose to do it the way they did was a mystery, and still is to me.
So, yeah, I'm complaining. As you can tell, I'm not much of a fan of goofy cozy mysteries. Given the rave reviews, this series is much-loved, and this is just my subjective opinion.
I have not read the other books in this series, and this one reads fine as a stand-alone.
*I received an advance ebook copy via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
The writing is good and the story moves along quickly. We're immersed in Jack's parents' world, with an aging cast of wannabe detectives. We go along with Jack as he investigates, untangling the mess and sorting the clues.
Honestly, I couldn't take much of this story seriously. I found myself doing the eye roll thing at some of the antics. Yes, there are humorous moments, such as an episode with an alligator, but it all seemed pushed to the extreme of plausibility. Much of the time I felt like I was chasing around wayward adolescents.
Jack and Alice's dog, Lady, plays a big roll in this story. I love dogs, but, again, this was a little too much. Lady is enormous and, apparently, untrained. Jack and Alice, a professional couple, have a 120-pound dog yanking them around at will. Humorous, yes, but I wanted more maturity and responsibility from Jack and Alice. Take the dog to a trainer already.
Jack and Alice are supposed to be deeply in love, yet I felt nothing from them. Not a hint of romance, until one scene at the end. And absolutely no physical interest in one another. Are they ever intimate? I don't know, but they seemed to have a hands-off policy.
The villains in this story are too ridiculous to terrorize. I have no idea how they managed to get by as long as they did. The mystery behind what they were doing was really no mystery at all. Why they chose to do it the way they did was a mystery, and still is to me.
So, yeah, I'm complaining. As you can tell, I'm not much of a fan of goofy cozy mysteries. Given the rave reviews, this series is much-loved, and this is just my subjective opinion.
I have not read the other books in this series, and this one reads fine as a stand-alone.
*I received an advance ebook copy via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*
October 23, 2017
When I couldn't sleep last night, I picked up JACK OF HEARTS, the latest Jack Stratton mystery by Christopher Greyson. Though it was the first of the series I've read, it won't be the last.
Do yourself a favor. If you haven't read any books in the series, start with Book 1. Though the author provides all the necessary information to keep the reader informed on what's happened in the past, this series is truly serial in nature and events in this book build upon events in the previous books. That's not a bad thing. I just found myself wanting to know more fully how Jack and the rest of the cast of characters found themselves at this point in their lives. Whenever I find myself invested in characters to that level, it's a good thing. These are people you'd enjoy having a cup of coffee or spending an evening with at home or on the town.
Greyson crafts a satisfying mystery that takes place in the gated community where Jack Stratton's parents, Ted and Laura, live. Mysterious burglaries have taken place while Ted and Laura were in the Bahamas on a cruise they won playing bingo at the community center. Jack, his girlfriend Alice, and their dog Lucy arrive for a visit when Jack's parents arrive back home and immediately find themselves trying to solve the case. At the same time, Jack continues to track down information about the deaths of Alice's family that took place when she was young.
I received a copy of the book from the author through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Do yourself a favor. If you haven't read any books in the series, start with Book 1. Though the author provides all the necessary information to keep the reader informed on what's happened in the past, this series is truly serial in nature and events in this book build upon events in the previous books. That's not a bad thing. I just found myself wanting to know more fully how Jack and the rest of the cast of characters found themselves at this point in their lives. Whenever I find myself invested in characters to that level, it's a good thing. These are people you'd enjoy having a cup of coffee or spending an evening with at home or on the town.
Greyson crafts a satisfying mystery that takes place in the gated community where Jack Stratton's parents, Ted and Laura, live. Mysterious burglaries have taken place while Ted and Laura were in the Bahamas on a cruise they won playing bingo at the community center. Jack, his girlfriend Alice, and their dog Lucy arrive for a visit when Jack's parents arrive back home and immediately find themselves trying to solve the case. At the same time, Jack continues to track down information about the deaths of Alice's family that took place when she was young.
I received a copy of the book from the author through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 1, 2017
Jack Stratton gets stuck flying his King Shepherd, Lady, to Florida with him when he and his human counter-part, Alice, head south for her to meet his parents. He is unable to warn his parents about the canine--and this is no ordinary lap dog.
His parents reside in one of those senior communities with more rules than common sense. Jack's mother is a member of a neighborhood book club and she asks her son to look into a thief they call the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit," who is stealing small-time stuff in their quiet retirement community. Jack is understandably reluctant to become involved until the nature of the crime turns deadly.
Mr. Greyson employs a deep sense of humor in dealing with the seniors of the community. His plot moves with senior precision, involves bingo, Lady, Alice, the bad guy(s), and the paramedics in the expected order.
It's a clean, fun, and compelling novel and makes Jack a sympathetic character. Alice is manipulated by Jack's mother and that softens her earlier controlling personality.
This book was offered by the author Christopher Greyson and Greyson Media LLC through NetGalley and it was my privilege to read and review. Part of the well received Detective Jack Stratton Mystery Thriller Series, this is sure to be a favorite! Recommended fun triumphant romp for people of all ages who appreciate a clean, topical read.
His parents reside in one of those senior communities with more rules than common sense. Jack's mother is a member of a neighborhood book club and she asks her son to look into a thief they call the "Orange Blossom Cove Bandit," who is stealing small-time stuff in their quiet retirement community. Jack is understandably reluctant to become involved until the nature of the crime turns deadly.
Mr. Greyson employs a deep sense of humor in dealing with the seniors of the community. His plot moves with senior precision, involves bingo, Lady, Alice, the bad guy(s), and the paramedics in the expected order.
It's a clean, fun, and compelling novel and makes Jack a sympathetic character. Alice is manipulated by Jack's mother and that softens her earlier controlling personality.
This book was offered by the author Christopher Greyson and Greyson Media LLC through NetGalley and it was my privilege to read and review. Part of the well received Detective Jack Stratton Mystery Thriller Series, this is sure to be a favorite! Recommended fun triumphant romp for people of all ages who appreciate a clean, topical read.
August 27, 2017
JACK OF HEARTS
A Detective Jack Stratton Novel
Christopher Greyson
Reviewed by Author Roy Murry
Jack, visiting his parents in a community for mature adults with his girlfriend and a large dog, is hoodwinked into solving a petty crime wave. The mature adults are less than mature involvement.
Behind the petty thieves is hidden a deadly crime that comes to light because of Jack's probing and the mature adult's interference. The large dog Lady, and Alice, Jack's soon to be, play their parts in uncovering the real crime which started when his parents and others returned from vacation cruise in the Caribbean.
The story has "It's close calls," mini adventures, and funny instances including a baby alligator confrontation. When mommy gator comes out of the water later, it's a big bite missed.
As far as a detective story goes, Hearts is a simple straight forward case. I must have read too many mysteries because I solved the case faster than Jack.
However, the story was an enjoyable read with the introduction of Jack, Alice, and their big dog, Lady who stole the show in this book. All in All, I may read another of Mr. Greyson’s many novels.
A Detective Jack Stratton Novel
Christopher Greyson
Reviewed by Author Roy Murry
Jack, visiting his parents in a community for mature adults with his girlfriend and a large dog, is hoodwinked into solving a petty crime wave. The mature adults are less than mature involvement.
Behind the petty thieves is hidden a deadly crime that comes to light because of Jack's probing and the mature adult's interference. The large dog Lady, and Alice, Jack's soon to be, play their parts in uncovering the real crime which started when his parents and others returned from vacation cruise in the Caribbean.
The story has "It's close calls," mini adventures, and funny instances including a baby alligator confrontation. When mommy gator comes out of the water later, it's a big bite missed.
As far as a detective story goes, Hearts is a simple straight forward case. I must have read too many mysteries because I solved the case faster than Jack.
However, the story was an enjoyable read with the introduction of Jack, Alice, and their big dog, Lady who stole the show in this book. All in All, I may read another of Mr. Greyson’s many novels.
April 30, 2018
In 6 books Jack and Alice always work together having each others backs but this time Jack is sent up a mountain to go undercover while Alice stays behind to do research. Unfortunately the mother of all blizzards keeps them from talking and Alice has information that is vital to Jack but Jack is fighting to survive.
This book really has 2 separate stories. One involving Jack and his assignment to investigate the death of several people on the show Planet Survival and the other what happened to Alice's family.
Honestly out of all of these books this was my least favorite. I really appreciate the interplay between Alice who never listens to what Jack tells her to do, and Jack who thinks he's in charge. Having Jack and Alice in 2 locations broke that connection.
Overall this was a good installment but not the best. I'm glad I decided to read all the others before beginning this so that I had an understanding of who all the players were and how they interacted, I'm not sure I would have been able to follow this as a stand alone. That being said the set up for the next book left me at the edge of my seat and very upset that I now have to wait for a new one!
This book really has 2 separate stories. One involving Jack and his assignment to investigate the death of several people on the show Planet Survival and the other what happened to Alice's family.
Honestly out of all of these books this was my least favorite. I really appreciate the interplay between Alice who never listens to what Jack tells her to do, and Jack who thinks he's in charge. Having Jack and Alice in 2 locations broke that connection.
Overall this was a good installment but not the best. I'm glad I decided to read all the others before beginning this so that I had an understanding of who all the players were and how they interacted, I'm not sure I would have been able to follow this as a stand alone. That being said the set up for the next book left me at the edge of my seat and very upset that I now have to wait for a new one!
September 1, 2017
This book was not what I was expecting. I actually put reading it off for a bit because I wanted to read something a little lighthearted and I wasn't in the mood for a dark mystery, thriller type book. This book was very easy to get into and it was NOT a heavy, dark mystery. It reminded me more of a cozy mystery type book. Jack, his girlfriend Alice and their dog Lady head to Florida for a visit with his parents. They find themselves in the middle of a humorous mystery in which they are unwittingly drawn in. The characters are all likable, especially the dog! Even though there is some violence it still feel more like a lighthearted read than a dark and violent story. I did not know I was reading a book that belonged in a series; Christopher Greyson did a good job helping the reader get to know the characters and informing us about their back stories. I will most likely put the earlier books in the series on my reading list. Easy, quick and humorous read. (With a mystery thrown in.)
November 6, 2017
The story is steady and sweet. The protagonist, Jack Stratton, brings his girlfriend to Florida to meet his parents who are living in a retirement community. There have been a series of break-ins and killings which were set up to look like death by natural causes. Due to circumstances beyond their control, Jack and his girlfriend (to whom he has just proposed) have to bring along her German shepherd. The proposal sub-plot included a second mystery and a nice resolution. Good backstory. And I loved the German shepherd.
I would call this novel a cozy mystery bordering on Christian fiction, which I usually stay away from. To its credit, it didn't get overly preachy, but there were several moments when the protagonist prays or seeks out a chapel and those moments tend to take me right out of a story. It's not the kind of novel I usually read. am not this author's ideal reader, but there was enough intrigue and plot movement to keep me mostly engaged to the end.
Thanks to Greyson Media, LLC and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
I would call this novel a cozy mystery bordering on Christian fiction, which I usually stay away from. To its credit, it didn't get overly preachy, but there were several moments when the protagonist prays or seeks out a chapel and those moments tend to take me right out of a story. It's not the kind of novel I usually read. am not this author's ideal reader, but there was enough intrigue and plot movement to keep me mostly engaged to the end.
Thanks to Greyson Media, LLC and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
January 12, 2018
Greyson/Jack of hearts
I'm this series jack and
replacement r on vacation he takes alice (aka...replacement) to visit his adopted parents in fl . Which they end up taking their dog big king shepherd named lady which cause a ruckus in the plane then they get to his parents house his mom gets them involved in the retirement community of thefts happening around there which turns out involving drugs also and in the myst of all that Jack finds out that one of truck driver who kill Alice's parents in truck/car accident is on loose and still out there never been caught yet . I'm looking forward and hope Grayson will have a story for that i'm not ready for Jack and alice to be the end of the series my 2 favorite characters and
their dog lady but the happy ending is when Jack asks alice to marry him and the way he did it and her response made my heart melt . Good job Grayson I bow to your writing skills you are so good .
I'm this series jack and
replacement r on vacation he takes alice (aka...replacement) to visit his adopted parents in fl . Which they end up taking their dog big king shepherd named lady which cause a ruckus in the plane then they get to his parents house his mom gets them involved in the retirement community of thefts happening around there which turns out involving drugs also and in the myst of all that Jack finds out that one of truck driver who kill Alice's parents in truck/car accident is on loose and still out there never been caught yet . I'm looking forward and hope Grayson will have a story for that i'm not ready for Jack and alice to be the end of the series my 2 favorite characters and
their dog lady but the happy ending is when Jack asks alice to marry him and the way he did it and her response made my heart melt . Good job Grayson I bow to your writing skills you are so good .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews