H.E. Joyce's "Death is 27 Red" is the newest addition to the Frank Doyle Reports series, and it’s a fantastic read that fans of classic noir thrillers are sure to love! In this installment, we follow our Boston-based private investigator, Frank Doyle, as he gets caught up in a gripping game of cat and mouse. The stakes are high, and the lines between right and wrong become increasingly blurred.

The adventure kicks off with what seems like a straightforward case: a missing woman. But as Doyle digs deeper, he uncovers a tangled web of deceit, gambling, and even murder, taking the story far beyond just that initial disappearance. Joyce does a wonderful job of crafting a complex narrative, introducing an array of characters who each have their own secrets and motives, which adds richness to the plot.

One of the standout features of "Death is 27 Red" is its raw realism. Joyce isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of human nature, giving us a vivid glimpse into the criminal underworld and the extreme lengths people will go to for money and power. The pace is fast and filled with suspense, packed with twists and turns that will keep you hooked until the very last page!

Frank Doyle is a charming protagonist. He’s relatable and likable, even when facing grim situations. Tough but fair, he has a solid moral compass that helps him navigate the murky waters of his investigations.

The story is full of surprises that will keep you guessing right up until the end. Joyce does a fantastic job of painting a convincing picture of the dark and dangerous world Doyle inhabits.

While some readers might find the violence and language a bit intense, and a few plot points could have been developed further, these aspects don't detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In a nutshell, "Death is 27 Red" is a thrilling and enjoyable read. Whether you're a noir thriller aficionado or just in the mood for a well-written mystery, this book is definitely worth picking up!

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

Please note - this is book #3 in the series.

David Ryan is a guy with a secret - he has a great job, great girl, and a huge gambling problem. His problem has grown into a huge debt to the local casino owner - Martinez. Martinez wants the debt settled - since Ryan cannot pay, then he needs to work off the debt. Martinez takes advantage of Ryan's job with the customs and after a few months, Ryan cannot take it anymore.

Frank Doyle, ex-NYC cop turned detective is in the bar, enjoying his evening meal when he sees Ryan, completely drunk, leave the bar. When Doyle leaves, he finds Ryan on the ground, dying. Ryan's last words were Martin. Doyle calls 911 and follows up with his cop friend later to find out that the investigation has been closed and the higher ups have said "quash it." This does not sit well with Doyle and he starts to investigate on his own.

This book weaves through police corruption and will Doyle find anyone in the police system that is not on the take and get this dangerous criminal off the street?

I read through these 3 books (this one plus the first two) within a few days.

A tense new crime thriller from H E Joyce. A real page turner from beginning to end. It was a perfect book to wrap yourself around on a dark night! This book needs to be on your radar! I love it so much!

Great plot and story. Highly recommend to others, will read more by this author for sure. Thrilling characters and plots.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of this book for an honest review. This book is about a private investigator who used to be a cop so he has great instincts. He has done a lot of small cases of infidelity but a young man is killed and the police won’t look into it they call it something random not a murder. Frank isn’t satisfied so he starts investigating himself and runs into big time trouble with big drug dealers. He doesn’t give up and his friend ends up being killed so it becomes really personal. He doesn’t care that he’s been threatened he doesn’t give up until the bad guys are finally arrested. This wasn’t really my cup of tea so I can’t say I would recommend it.

Didn’t read it in one, but started and finished it the same day.
Really enjoyed it. Good storyline line despite what is going to be a rather obvious ending and I will certainly read more by this author.
Recommend.

Good book! This book was kind of a light suspense read, it had intrigue, action a few twists and turns and some good detective work! Its definitely worth reading but not one of my all time favorites?! I did enjoy reading this book and will recommend it, but as I said it was just ok for me! Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!