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DCI Logan Crime Thrillers #20
A Killer of Influence
What price would you pay for fame?
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers – and families – in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?
A Killer of Influence is the 20th book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series from internationally bestselling Scottish crime author, JD Kirk.
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers – and families – in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?
A Killer of Influence is the 20th book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series from internationally bestselling Scottish crime author, JD Kirk.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2024
About the author
J.D. Kirk
36 books1,397 followersJD Kirk is the pen name of multi-award-winning author, screenwriter, and writer of comics, Barry Hutchison.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
JD Kirk lives in the Highlands of Scotland with his wife, two children, and a number of sturdy umbrellas. Despite writing from a young age, 'A Litter of Bones' is his first novel, and combines his love of the Highlands, crime thrillers, and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
September 14, 2024
Have I been checking the upcoming releases page on Audible every night for weeks because I had a feeling, or at least a hope, that we were due for a new release by JD Kirk? Yes, yes I have. No sign, but then the night before last, bam, there it was.
The cliffhanger from the last book has been resolved, much to my relief. And the ending! It was so... nice. Too nice? Like, it could serve as a decent series-ender. Which would be fine, except that I'm selfish and want more, haha. I feel like there are still stories left to be told, especially with such a broad (and surprisingly well-developed, likable) cast of characters. They were all put to good use, here, and just about everyone had some character development or progress in their character arc. Even minor players like Berta Hoon (who is a delight). It can be hard to juggle such a big cast, but Kirk does it like he's a member of Cirque du Soleil.
Speaking of the Hoons. So, there's a scene near the end that made me gasp. It had me squirming, thinking, oh no, you wouldn't, you can't, (name) has already been through a lot, that would just be needlessly cruel. And it looked like, it really looked like, that's what was going to happen. And then Hoon flushed the toilet. The sense of relief I felt was palpable. I could exhale. And what happened next was so incredibly satisfying.
The main storyline, I'll admit, sounded kind of dry (social media influencers aren't my thing) but the way it was plotted, it was actually quite good. Everything tied together cleverly, and in a way that didn't seem forced.
I really enjoyed it and I'm hoping that, despite the ending (which was heartwarming as heck), there's more to come.
The cliffhanger from the last book has been resolved, much to my relief. And the ending! It was so... nice. Too nice? Like, it could serve as a decent series-ender. Which would be fine, except that I'm selfish and want more, haha. I feel like there are still stories left to be told, especially with such a broad (and surprisingly well-developed, likable) cast of characters. They were all put to good use, here, and just about everyone had some character development or progress in their character arc. Even minor players like Berta Hoon (who is a delight). It can be hard to juggle such a big cast, but Kirk does it like he's a member of Cirque du Soleil.
Speaking of the Hoons. So, there's a scene near the end that made me gasp. It had me squirming, thinking, oh no, you wouldn't, you can't, (name) has already been through a lot, that would just be needlessly cruel. And it looked like, it really looked like, that's what was going to happen. And then Hoon flushed the toilet. The sense of relief I felt was palpable. I could exhale. And what happened next was so incredibly satisfying.
The main storyline, I'll admit, sounded kind of dry (social media influencers aren't my thing) but the way it was plotted, it was actually quite good. Everything tied together cleverly, and in a way that didn't seem forced.
I really enjoyed it and I'm hoping that, despite the ending (which was heartwarming as heck), there's more to come.
September 10, 2024
I LOVED this book so much!! However, I do have to start with a confession - that I can't quite believe I'm typing so that it's out there for all to see but.... this is actually the first DCI Jack Logan book that I have read. Please accept my apologies JD Kirk.
I have given myself a talking to as I honestly have no clue where I have been but I have now just added 19 books to my TBR list! So if your wondering if it matters if you haven't read the rest - no, there are things that are referenced that had I have read the others I would have understood the background more fully but it made absolutely no difference to the enjoyment of reading this one.
Obviously this means that I have only just 'met' DCI Jack Logan and what an introduction to him! I really like his character and you can just tell that he likes to get things solved and do it well. He also because of this sounds like he has made some enemies along the way but thats life when your a successful DCI in the police. He is no holds barred and says it like it is which I love in a character, especially a police character!
The storyline itself was very clever and thought it was set up and portrayed really well. There were false clues and links along the way alongside the twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout, I honestly loved it. There were times when I thought it was all a hoax for attention, then convinced that it was all about police retaliation, then personal to Jack and then round again!
I loved the pacing of the book and it hooked me in very quickly. I also really like some of our supporting characters and cannot wait to start this series from the beginning so that I can find out more about them! What I will say is that the team seem very close and almost like family so some of the scenes I could really feel the emotion in them and felt for the team.
Whilst it was gripping and tense and twisty there were times where I literally laughed out loud at some of what came of of the characters mouths and I really liked those brief moments to break up the tension at times. I literally could not put the book down as we were getting towards the end and it was wayyyy past 1am when I finished it as I just couldn't stop and then have to finish it the next day I NEEDED to find out!
I have given myself a talking to as I honestly have no clue where I have been but I have now just added 19 books to my TBR list! So if your wondering if it matters if you haven't read the rest - no, there are things that are referenced that had I have read the others I would have understood the background more fully but it made absolutely no difference to the enjoyment of reading this one.
Obviously this means that I have only just 'met' DCI Jack Logan and what an introduction to him! I really like his character and you can just tell that he likes to get things solved and do it well. He also because of this sounds like he has made some enemies along the way but thats life when your a successful DCI in the police. He is no holds barred and says it like it is which I love in a character, especially a police character!
The storyline itself was very clever and thought it was set up and portrayed really well. There were false clues and links along the way alongside the twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout, I honestly loved it. There were times when I thought it was all a hoax for attention, then convinced that it was all about police retaliation, then personal to Jack and then round again!
I loved the pacing of the book and it hooked me in very quickly. I also really like some of our supporting characters and cannot wait to start this series from the beginning so that I can find out more about them! What I will say is that the team seem very close and almost like family so some of the scenes I could really feel the emotion in them and felt for the team.
Whilst it was gripping and tense and twisty there were times where I literally laughed out loud at some of what came of of the characters mouths and I really liked those brief moments to break up the tension at times. I literally could not put the book down as we were getting towards the end and it was wayyyy past 1am when I finished it as I just couldn't stop and then have to finish it the next day I NEEDED to find out!
September 27, 2024
Yes! No! Please, please, please!
Yes - absolutely brilliant instalment in the series. Book 20 comes at you from all angles and is a real train wreck of events (in the best Jack Logan way). All the characters from across the series appear in this read.
No - is it the end? The ending rounds everything up so nicely it was devastating. The internet search began immediately- is this the last one in the series? No definitive answer…so…
Please, please, please don’t let this be the end!
If you haven’t read this author, do yourself a favour and start at Book One!
Yes - absolutely brilliant instalment in the series. Book 20 comes at you from all angles and is a real train wreck of events (in the best Jack Logan way). All the characters from across the series appear in this read.
No - is it the end? The ending rounds everything up so nicely it was devastating. The internet search began immediately- is this the last one in the series? No definitive answer…so…
Please, please, please don’t let this be the end!
If you haven’t read this author, do yourself a favour and start at Book One!
October 20, 2024
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ he does it again, 20 books into the series and I still sit on the edge of my seat and laugh out loud!!
I am not going to recap, the synopsis does a good job and to be honest at this point you are either all in or don’t like or don’t know about this series… and I do not recommend starting at book 20 if you haven’t read any of the others… this one actually follows on from book 19 for starters and also… its book 20 so… speaks for itself really doesn’t it.
I always start a new one of this series with trepidation… I am always worried this will be the one that lets me down… never fear - it isn’t this one. Book 20 was a cracker it had a bit of everything, I don’t know how J.D. Kirk makes them be so tense and full of thrills and so hilarious all at once but he does and I am so here for it.
Everyone is back (again why you shouldn’t start here if you are new) so all the faves are here. Hoon of course makes an appearance and even the Gozer is here … I remember him from earlier books (hmmm looking at you trying to start at book 20 🤣).
I actually love the character of DCI Jack Logan and its almost its own universe and all the characters make little guest appearances from other books which is cool. But actually cool, not fake cool like super heroes hahaha I know I know… I am sure everyone wants to shoot me for saying that.
These books are rude though… there is swearing and rude insults. It is very Scottish, so those of you who don’t like books written as they are spoken in their home tongue this will not be for you… the slang will not be familiar to those lovely people from the US, but google is right there so I mean all is not lost. I do recommend but not to everyone - and for those who weren’t paying attention do not start here.
I was super worried one of my fave chracters was going to die and I’ll be honest when… uh uh uh… not so fast I am not going to spoil it you will have to read it to find out if anyone gets knocked off the list.
Some nasty business is at Jack’s doorstep… an unpleasant blast from the past… to be fair the twist for this section was a bit meh for me but it didn’t ruin it, I was pretty ok with the deep dark secret … but I get it.
There are some hilarious quotes in this book, I highlighted one to share but its incredibly crass… so I will just let you read the book and not ruin It 🤣
As I said before… make sure you know yourself if you hate lots of “unnecessary” swearing in books this won’t be for you, if you don’t like books from Scotland this won’t be for you and I don’t know if I mentioned it but if you haven’t read the first 19 this is also not for you hahaha. If those things don’t bother you and you are already a super fan then dive in…wait no longer I am here to tell you this is not the book to let us down it is solid and I am here for it.
Also, this is available on Kindle Unlimited which is pretty cool, there is also an extra chapter that J.D Kirk has written to go in between chapter 50 and 51 that you get if you got his latest newsletter, I don’t know if you can get it on social media (I don’t have it so can’t check) but I would guess is available on Facebook or something like that.
Happy reading!!!
I am not going to recap, the synopsis does a good job and to be honest at this point you are either all in or don’t like or don’t know about this series… and I do not recommend starting at book 20 if you haven’t read any of the others… this one actually follows on from book 19 for starters and also… its book 20 so… speaks for itself really doesn’t it.
I always start a new one of this series with trepidation… I am always worried this will be the one that lets me down… never fear - it isn’t this one. Book 20 was a cracker it had a bit of everything, I don’t know how J.D. Kirk makes them be so tense and full of thrills and so hilarious all at once but he does and I am so here for it.
Everyone is back (again why you shouldn’t start here if you are new) so all the faves are here. Hoon of course makes an appearance and even the Gozer is here … I remember him from earlier books (hmmm looking at you trying to start at book 20 🤣).
I actually love the character of DCI Jack Logan and its almost its own universe and all the characters make little guest appearances from other books which is cool. But actually cool, not fake cool like super heroes hahaha I know I know… I am sure everyone wants to shoot me for saying that.
These books are rude though… there is swearing and rude insults. It is very Scottish, so those of you who don’t like books written as they are spoken in their home tongue this will not be for you… the slang will not be familiar to those lovely people from the US, but google is right there so I mean all is not lost. I do recommend but not to everyone - and for those who weren’t paying attention do not start here.
I was super worried one of my fave chracters was going to die and I’ll be honest when… uh uh uh… not so fast I am not going to spoil it you will have to read it to find out if anyone gets knocked off the list.
Some nasty business is at Jack’s doorstep… an unpleasant blast from the past… to be fair the twist for this section was a bit meh for me but it didn’t ruin it, I was pretty ok with the deep dark secret … but I get it.
There are some hilarious quotes in this book, I highlighted one to share but its incredibly crass… so I will just let you read the book and not ruin It 🤣
As I said before… make sure you know yourself if you hate lots of “unnecessary” swearing in books this won’t be for you, if you don’t like books from Scotland this won’t be for you and I don’t know if I mentioned it but if you haven’t read the first 19 this is also not for you hahaha. If those things don’t bother you and you are already a super fan then dive in…wait no longer I am here to tell you this is not the book to let us down it is solid and I am here for it.
Also, this is available on Kindle Unlimited which is pretty cool, there is also an extra chapter that J.D Kirk has written to go in between chapter 50 and 51 that you get if you got his latest newsletter, I don’t know if you can get it on social media (I don’t have it so can’t check) but I would guess is available on Facebook or something like that.
Happy reading!!!
September 25, 2024
Absolutely brilliant! I love this series and this one continued it with the great story, characters and humour. A really enjoyable novel which keeps up with the society of today but never loses sight of what came before.
I also love the characters and the way the author weaves some of the ones we've met before into the narrative. Of course, the main characters are fantastic and you continue to find yourself groaning with them, laughing with them and caring about them. Looking forward to the next one in the series already!
I also love the characters and the way the author weaves some of the ones we've met before into the narrative. Of course, the main characters are fantastic and you continue to find yourself groaning with them, laughing with them and caring about them. Looking forward to the next one in the series already!
September 15, 2024
This was an interesting read! I haven’t read many police procedures that have a modern twist like this, so it was intriguing. It took me a minute to get into it, but it was fast paced and quickly pulled me in after I got going. This worked well as a standalone, but I think I would have been pulled in quicker had I known all of the characters in play. Overall a good read, and I’m looking forward to going back and reading others in this series!
DCI Logan has a lot going on. Bodies were found near an old crime scene, 8 in total. And he just got a big case pushed off on his, missing influencers. As they start tracking them down, they show up on their social media feeds. Lives, where they are in cages forced to perform, with terrifying consequences for the one who gets the least amount of likes. Add in his past coming to haunt him, and he can’t catch a break in any of the cases he has going on.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
DCI Logan has a lot going on. Bodies were found near an old crime scene, 8 in total. And he just got a big case pushed off on his, missing influencers. As they start tracking them down, they show up on their social media feeds. Lives, where they are in cages forced to perform, with terrifying consequences for the one who gets the least amount of likes. Add in his past coming to haunt him, and he can’t catch a break in any of the cases he has going on.
Thank you to Love Books Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
September 11, 2024
I reallyyyy enjoyed this book, and may have read all of it in one day! I will admit I haven’t read any of the others in this series but that now NEEDS to change, and I can also say that this is also perfect as a standalone book!
I really like Jack as a character and am excited to read more of these books so I can get to know him even more.
The plot was full of many twists and turns, I can honestly say I didn’t expect how it was going to end, but with that I thought it was a brilliant ending!
I definitely recommend this book (and I’m certain the others in the series are equally as great), for all crime book fans!
I really like Jack as a character and am excited to read more of these books so I can get to know him even more.
The plot was full of many twists and turns, I can honestly say I didn’t expect how it was going to end, but with that I thought it was a brilliant ending!
I definitely recommend this book (and I’m certain the others in the series are equally as great), for all crime book fans!
September 14, 2024
Brilliant as ever!!! Alas always over too quickly because you can't put it down. Maybe a double-length book would be fab, we know you could easily do that, Mr Kirk 😀
No one could have guessed that one, that's what I love about the books. The twists and turns and the wtf moments. And the laugh out loud moments - who else would consider sticking someone's head down the toilet after a particularly revolting deposit, but Hoon, and so well deserved of his victim. In a theatre, there would have been cheers!
Thankyou JD Kirk for your books, the joy you bring to so many people, bringing our friends back time and again. Xx
No one could have guessed that one, that's what I love about the books. The twists and turns and the wtf moments. And the laugh out loud moments - who else would consider sticking someone's head down the toilet after a particularly revolting deposit, but Hoon, and so well deserved of his victim. In a theatre, there would have been cheers!
Thankyou JD Kirk for your books, the joy you bring to so many people, bringing our friends back time and again. Xx
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2024
Amazing
I was looking forward to reading this since i finished the last book. (Months ago)
And it did not dissapoint, brilliant gripping storyline, from the first page to the last i was hooked, one of my favourite books in the series, hope there is more, i was not expecting the massive turn of events! Wow! How does Kirk do it?
PS there was a mention of a certain Harry Grimm aswell which was nice, Logan was mentoined in one of Gatward (Harry Grimm) books. Was nice to return the name drop!
I was looking forward to reading this since i finished the last book. (Months ago)
And it did not dissapoint, brilliant gripping storyline, from the first page to the last i was hooked, one of my favourite books in the series, hope there is more, i was not expecting the massive turn of events! Wow! How does Kirk do it?
PS there was a mention of a certain Harry Grimm aswell which was nice, Logan was mentoined in one of Gatward (Harry Grimm) books. Was nice to return the name drop!
September 30, 2024
Brilliant as always! If you haven't read the whole series, start with book 1 and enjoy. The characters feel like old friends at this point. Any book that can make you laugh, cry, and cheer is a keeper, and this book 20 did all three for me.
I also highly recommend the Bob Hoon side series... absolutely hilarious and completely ridiculous from start to finish. If you are sensitive to swearing, maybe give it a miss!
I also highly recommend the Bob Hoon side series... absolutely hilarious and completely ridiculous from start to finish. If you are sensitive to swearing, maybe give it a miss!
September 14, 2024
A Killer Of Influence by JD Kirk, book 20 of the DCI Kogan crime series, has to be the best yet, although I may have said that each time I have read any book in the series.
I was enthralled by this story from beginning to end, I really enjoy reading this series of crime thrillers.
Highly recommended
I was enthralled by this story from beginning to end, I really enjoy reading this series of crime thrillers.
Highly recommended
September 14, 2024
Love love LOVE THIS SERIES!! the audiobooks are fantastic 😍
September 15, 2024
Oh my heart! I’d say « never do that to me again » but im actually looking forward to another book.
September 21, 2024
Wow.
This is a cracker. We meet again so many characters from past DCI Logan books, there are so many sub-stories and red herrings.
And we learn something Jack Logan has been keeping a secret from us all (even Shona) right from the start.
I couldn't sleep until I'd read the last 90 minutes or so. It's enthralling all the way, but those last minutes are especially gripping.
Probably this is the best Logan yet - and that's saying a lot!
This is a cracker. We meet again so many characters from past DCI Logan books, there are so many sub-stories and red herrings.
And we learn something Jack Logan has been keeping a secret from us all (even Shona) right from the start.
I couldn't sleep until I'd read the last 90 minutes or so. It's enthralling all the way, but those last minutes are especially gripping.
Probably this is the best Logan yet - and that's saying a lot!
September 21, 2024
The best Logan book yet! Bit of an emotional rollercoaster mind ! Great narration from Angus King as ever!
September 22, 2024
Perfect
You don't realize you miss someone until they are gone and that's how I feel about the characters. They are so real to me and I missed them all very very much. This was an awesome story. From the past someone is coming for jack and they know a secret. And they are killing people to get what they want. Jack Logan going down for murder. It was quite the plot with twists and turns and old friends and grief and it was just so good. I loved it. Great ending too! Hope there will be more one day!
You don't realize you miss someone until they are gone and that's how I feel about the characters. They are so real to me and I missed them all very very much. This was an awesome story. From the past someone is coming for jack and they know a secret. And they are killing people to get what they want. Jack Logan going down for murder. It was quite the plot with twists and turns and old friends and grief and it was just so good. I loved it. Great ending too! Hope there will be more one day!
November 8, 2024
This guy is bloody good.
September 24, 2024
Amazing , love DCI Logan and his team, read the whole series, so cleverly wrote, characters amazing, and the series has never disappointed as always hope there’s another book and cant wait
September 17, 2024
***A book truly for his fans*** (But you can start with this book) (But don't)
Book 20 of the DCI Jack Logan did not disappoint. This was a big case. Lots of guest stars and notable mentions helped make this the best book of the series, a book truly for the fans.
As we’ve come to expect, the humor was perfect throughout the novel. One scene caught me off guard with its brilliance, I nearly wrecked my car in laughter. Then, there were tears. Not a few stray drops running down the cheeks but full on ugly crying.
All I can say is JD Kirk is a national treasure and since I’m not a Scottish national, I’d say he’s a global treasure.
If you’re reading this and haven’t read the previous 19 books, along with the 5 Hoon books, and 2 Filson books….STOP!
Yes everyone can enjoy this installment as their first foray into the Logan-verse, BUT, you will enjoy this book a thousand times more if you knew all the background information. That’s why I say this book is truly one for the fans.
Chapter 24
I’m bawling and nothing catastrophic or cataclysmic has even happened. But an important scene. Jesus. This is fiction.
My only defense is this world is my escape and now even it is under threat…temporarily, I know but damn. This is what a good author does.
I exercised some insane Hoonian (or more aptly anti-Hoonian) restraint to go a bit slower with this one. It is the best book of the series. I’ve experienced every emotion.
Harris and Olivia! 😳😳😳
End of chapter 28: WTF! but OMG!
And the bathroom scene...since there's more than one, you'll have to figure out which one.
And the conclusion, so glad you did't go there Mr. Hutchinson (Kirk), you know what I mean.
Finally, the extra bonus chapter provided to fans is sheer brilliance and all things wonderful.
Book 20 of the DCI Jack Logan did not disappoint. This was a big case. Lots of guest stars and notable mentions helped make this the best book of the series, a book truly for the fans.
As we’ve come to expect, the humor was perfect throughout the novel. One scene caught me off guard with its brilliance, I nearly wrecked my car in laughter. Then, there were tears. Not a few stray drops running down the cheeks but full on ugly crying.
All I can say is JD Kirk is a national treasure and since I’m not a Scottish national, I’d say he’s a global treasure.
If you’re reading this and haven’t read the previous 19 books, along with the 5 Hoon books, and 2 Filson books….STOP!
Yes everyone can enjoy this installment as their first foray into the Logan-verse, BUT, you will enjoy this book a thousand times more if you knew all the background information. That’s why I say this book is truly one for the fans.
Chapter 24
I’m bawling and nothing catastrophic or cataclysmic has even happened. But an important scene. Jesus. This is fiction.
My only defense is this world is my escape and now even it is under threat…temporarily, I know but damn. This is what a good author does.
I exercised some insane Hoonian (or more aptly anti-Hoonian) restraint to go a bit slower with this one. It is the best book of the series. I’ve experienced every emotion.
Harris and Olivia! 😳😳😳
End of chapter 28: WTF! but OMG!
And the bathroom scene...since there's more than one, you'll have to figure out which one.
And the conclusion, so glad you did't go there Mr. Hutchinson (Kirk), you know what I mean.
Finally, the extra bonus chapter provided to fans is sheer brilliance and all things wonderful.
October 21, 2024
If you search for the book on Amazon, the first sentence is: What price would you pay for fame?
Intriguing, isn't it? Do you want fame?
In this book, we get reacquainted with DCI Jack Logan. A man with many flaws, less than perfect, troubled by his past. Not unlike my favourite "police" Harry Hole (@jonesboauthor ). Well... acquainted for me as I have not read the other books in the series yet, which I will start on based on this book.😊
I know this is a thriller. However, the book is funny as well. I love the comradery of the group. The smart comments. The family they have selected.
The plot is intriguing, there were moments when I really thought there were going to be more victims, almost holding my breath.
We have a nice build up. Every time I was going to put the book down as soon as I reached the next chapter, I ended up forgetting and reading too many chapters before putting it down. As in, I do have other things to do. That is what we want from a book, isn’t it?😄
Intriguing, isn't it? Do you want fame?
In this book, we get reacquainted with DCI Jack Logan. A man with many flaws, less than perfect, troubled by his past. Not unlike my favourite "police" Harry Hole (@jonesboauthor ). Well... acquainted for me as I have not read the other books in the series yet, which I will start on based on this book.😊
I know this is a thriller. However, the book is funny as well. I love the comradery of the group. The smart comments. The family they have selected.
The plot is intriguing, there were moments when I really thought there were going to be more victims, almost holding my breath.
We have a nice build up. Every time I was going to put the book down as soon as I reached the next chapter, I ended up forgetting and reading too many chapters before putting it down. As in, I do have other things to do. That is what we want from a book, isn’t it?😄
September 20, 2024
I discovered the writing of J.D. Kirk in 2022, since then I have read over 50 volumes across three different pen names. I picked the first for a few reasons, but mainly because authors Alex Smith and JE Mayhew have both recommended the author and series. I am a big fan of Smith’s DCI Kett novels and Mayhew’s DCI Will Blake Series. I have been hooked since that first read. Kirk also publishes under the names Barry Hutchison and Barry J, Hutchison. I have now read the first 19 in the DCI Logan series and all 4 in the Robert Hoon series, The first two in the DI Heather Filson series as well as stand alone VIP exclusive short story.
I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under three different names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He has published over 200 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Being caught up now on his works as J.D. Kirk I will have to wait for each new one to come out, and this volume was well worth the weight.
The description of this novel is:
“What price would you pay for fame?
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers – and families – in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?”
This story feels very different than many in the series. First the last case seems not to be as settled as they expected. Logan believes someone out there is still pulling strings and blackmailing people into doing things. And when a reminder of his own dark secret turns up at the station and then another at his home in his bedroom, well lets just say he is off his game for a while. The case is also different in that 8 social influencers have been kidnapped, and their captivity is being livestreamed. After one of them is killed on camera and the rest are forced to remove a finger thinks really amp up.
Again, I stayed up way to late to finishing this story. I just could not put it down. This is another great read in a excellent series. I love the three series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk and they are definitely Scottish Mysteries, or Scottish Police Crime novels. This book and series would be great reads for fans of Jack Reacher, Jack Ryan, or Temperance Brennan. I state it again this is a great read in a dark and gritty series!
I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under three different names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He has published over 200 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Being caught up now on his works as J.D. Kirk I will have to wait for each new one to come out, and this volume was well worth the weight.
The description of this novel is:
“What price would you pay for fame?
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers – and families – in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?”
This story feels very different than many in the series. First the last case seems not to be as settled as they expected. Logan believes someone out there is still pulling strings and blackmailing people into doing things. And when a reminder of his own dark secret turns up at the station and then another at his home in his bedroom, well lets just say he is off his game for a while. The case is also different in that 8 social influencers have been kidnapped, and their captivity is being livestreamed. After one of them is killed on camera and the rest are forced to remove a finger thinks really amp up.
Again, I stayed up way to late to finishing this story. I just could not put it down. This is another great read in a excellent series. I love the three series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk and they are definitely Scottish Mysteries, or Scottish Police Crime novels. This book and series would be great reads for fans of Jack Reacher, Jack Ryan, or Temperance Brennan. I state it again this is a great read in a dark and gritty series!
September 18, 2024
Here is my review for A Killer Of Influence by JD Kirk
I found this book gripping from the start and was totally hooked by the bottom of page one! I found it so easy to read and just fell into the story. It was unreal. The descriptive writing builds a picture that runs through your mind like a film so you can picture it and it is so vivid it’s picture perfect, and it’s great because I was able to picture the whole book as I was reading it. In some parts there is blood and some swearing, please take this as a trigger warning if offended. The writing is superb and the plotting is excellent, I have never read a plot like it. It’s extremely well thought out. I like the character DCI Jack Logan, he is big, brash and a force to be reckoned with. He has brains and can usually work out what a perp is doing but this one has him on the rails. His team is brilliant too. Is this person attacking him via a different method? Stuff sent to work, parcel sent to home address? Or does he have another agenda? Can they catch the person behind the kidnappings? Is it linked?
Blurb :
What price would you pay for fame?
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers–and families–in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end–live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?
A Killer of Influence is the 20th book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series from internationally bestselling Scottish crime author, JD Kirk.
I found this book gripping from the start and was totally hooked by the bottom of page one! I found it so easy to read and just fell into the story. It was unreal. The descriptive writing builds a picture that runs through your mind like a film so you can picture it and it is so vivid it’s picture perfect, and it’s great because I was able to picture the whole book as I was reading it. In some parts there is blood and some swearing, please take this as a trigger warning if offended. The writing is superb and the plotting is excellent, I have never read a plot like it. It’s extremely well thought out. I like the character DCI Jack Logan, he is big, brash and a force to be reckoned with. He has brains and can usually work out what a perp is doing but this one has him on the rails. His team is brilliant too. Is this person attacking him via a different method? Stuff sent to work, parcel sent to home address? Or does he have another agenda? Can they catch the person behind the kidnappings? Is it linked?
Blurb :
What price would you pay for fame?
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers–and families–in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin.
Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end–live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
But how do you catch a killer who is always one click ahead?
A Killer of Influence is the 20th book in the multi-million selling DCI Jack Logan series from internationally bestselling Scottish crime author, JD Kirk.
September 17, 2024
New Player Enters The Game!
When eight social media influencers go missing while attending a conference in the Highlands of Scotland, little does DCI Jack Logan know that his team will be pushed to the limit to try and rescue them before things take a turn and not in a good way.
To complicate matters Jack has been summoned by his boss Detective Superintendent Mitchell to her office and when Jack gets there she's clearing her desk out as if she's leaving. She breaks the news that one of the influencers is her son and as she's too close to the case she's being temporarily replaced by Suprintendent McKenzie a former boss of Logan from his Glasgow days.
Then the live streams appear!
The eight influncers are pitted against each other in a battle for likes in an underground setting and for the one with the fewest likes the results are deadly.
With no clue who the perpetrator is and where these broadcasts are being live streamed from, Logan and the team have a mountain to climb and a limited time to try and bring these people back to their worried families and friends and one of those families is one of their own.
How do you find someone who doesn't want to be found? Where do you even begin to find a killer from these mere scraps of information? How do eight people vanish into thin air in broad daylight? Logan and his team have their work cut out but will this be a case too many? You'll have to read the book to find out.
This is the twentieth book in the series and for me personally I think this is the author's best book ever and I've read them all. It never ceases to amaze me that this series goes from strength to strength because I'm not sure if this was the final instalment.
When eight social media influencers go missing while attending a conference in the Highlands of Scotland, little does DCI Jack Logan know that his team will be pushed to the limit to try and rescue them before things take a turn and not in a good way.
To complicate matters Jack has been summoned by his boss Detective Superintendent Mitchell to her office and when Jack gets there she's clearing her desk out as if she's leaving. She breaks the news that one of the influencers is her son and as she's too close to the case she's being temporarily replaced by Suprintendent McKenzie a former boss of Logan from his Glasgow days.
Then the live streams appear!
The eight influncers are pitted against each other in a battle for likes in an underground setting and for the one with the fewest likes the results are deadly.
With no clue who the perpetrator is and where these broadcasts are being live streamed from, Logan and the team have a mountain to climb and a limited time to try and bring these people back to their worried families and friends and one of those families is one of their own.
How do you find someone who doesn't want to be found? Where do you even begin to find a killer from these mere scraps of information? How do eight people vanish into thin air in broad daylight? Logan and his team have their work cut out but will this be a case too many? You'll have to read the book to find out.
This is the twentieth book in the series and for me personally I think this is the author's best book ever and I've read them all. It never ceases to amaze me that this series goes from strength to strength because I'm not sure if this was the final instalment.
September 12, 2024
DCI Logan and his team are thrown into a case involving 8 social media influencers who have gone missing following a convention. The police have very little to go on until their accounts start streaming them locked and scared inside cages for the world to see. Is this a social media stunt or is something more sinister at play?
I am ashamed to say this is my first DCI Logan book and I will 100% be reading the rest. There is so much to love about this book I don’t know where to start so I’ll just dive in.
For me a story is only as good as its characters and this cast of characters work so well together, I loved all of them. Each of them have a trait (murderer aside) I can either see in myself or my friends and family making them so relatable. The banter and humour between them is great and although the book has some hard topics it also has some really light moments where I laughed out loud.
Although this is my first DCI Logan book, and there is definitely some character background I need to catch up on, I don’t feel like it affected the story. For me it definitely can be read as a stand alone, going back to read the others will benefit in seeing how the characters have developed but it doesn’t hinder the story.
I read this in two sittings as I was so invested in finding out what was going on. It’s full of twists and turns that you really aren’t expecting as a reader. Also as it’s based in Scotland I found I could really relate to the cultural references, being a fellow Scot. I think I’ve found a new favourite author to add to my book buying list.
I am ashamed to say this is my first DCI Logan book and I will 100% be reading the rest. There is so much to love about this book I don’t know where to start so I’ll just dive in.
For me a story is only as good as its characters and this cast of characters work so well together, I loved all of them. Each of them have a trait (murderer aside) I can either see in myself or my friends and family making them so relatable. The banter and humour between them is great and although the book has some hard topics it also has some really light moments where I laughed out loud.
Although this is my first DCI Logan book, and there is definitely some character background I need to catch up on, I don’t feel like it affected the story. For me it definitely can be read as a stand alone, going back to read the others will benefit in seeing how the characters have developed but it doesn’t hinder the story.
I read this in two sittings as I was so invested in finding out what was going on. It’s full of twists and turns that you really aren’t expecting as a reader. Also as it’s based in Scotland I found I could really relate to the cultural references, being a fellow Scot. I think I’ve found a new favourite author to add to my book buying list.
September 26, 2024
Shock, horror, aaagh!
Nail biting is hardly the word for it. This is a heart attack of a thriller. Oh, my, still recovering. A body dump is found and before the investigation can get going properly a group of internet 'influencers' up for a conference go missing. Kidnapped? In peril of their lives? Or is it a sick publicity stunt. Their tortured ordeals in cages are broadcast and all the sucks start to vote on who should live or die. We are not that far removed from the bloodthirsty audience in the ancient Roman Colisseum or at later public executions. A fun day out for the kids. And our great Jack Logan is struggling with a demon from his past. Was this evil charade created because of something he did? Guilt ways heavily on him. Time to 'fess up. Is this the sorry end to his career? Nah, I didn't believe that for a moment. As the old adventure magazine had it, 'with one leap Jack was free' and thank goodness for it. I can't do without my regular dose of Jack Logan thrills. And you bet your nightmares, this story is one huge thrill. Highly recommended.
Nail biting is hardly the word for it. This is a heart attack of a thriller. Oh, my, still recovering. A body dump is found and before the investigation can get going properly a group of internet 'influencers' up for a conference go missing. Kidnapped? In peril of their lives? Or is it a sick publicity stunt. Their tortured ordeals in cages are broadcast and all the sucks start to vote on who should live or die. We are not that far removed from the bloodthirsty audience in the ancient Roman Colisseum or at later public executions. A fun day out for the kids. And our great Jack Logan is struggling with a demon from his past. Was this evil charade created because of something he did? Guilt ways heavily on him. Time to 'fess up. Is this the sorry end to his career? Nah, I didn't believe that for a moment. As the old adventure magazine had it, 'with one leap Jack was free' and thank goodness for it. I can't do without my regular dose of Jack Logan thrills. And you bet your nightmares, this story is one huge thrill. Highly recommended.
October 23, 2024
Following a convention in the Scottish Highlands, eight social media influencers vanish without a trace, leaving their followers in a state of shock, and the police clueless as to their whereabouts.
And then, the livestreams begin. Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
Another brilliant read from JD Kirk. This had so many ups and downs for me. Laugh out loud chuckles and then emotional moments that touched the heart. It had the whole crew involved in this, including DI Filson and Tammy helping out. Edge of seat gripping storyline. I think each book gets better and better. Bought this to read on holiday and thoroughly enjoyed it. Sorry hubby for ignoring you lol!
And then, the livestreams begin. Broadcast live from their squalid underground cells, the young influencers are forced into a sadistic battle for survival.
With each livestream, their captor pits them against each other in a twisted competition for likes. The influencer with the fewest positive reactions faces a gruesome end – live on camera.
As the likes increase and the death toll rises, DCI Jack Logan and his team must traverse both the Scottish wilderness and the darkest corners of the internet to try and save the remaining captives.
Another brilliant read from JD Kirk. This had so many ups and downs for me. Laugh out loud chuckles and then emotional moments that touched the heart. It had the whole crew involved in this, including DI Filson and Tammy helping out. Edge of seat gripping storyline. I think each book gets better and better. Bought this to read on holiday and thoroughly enjoyed it. Sorry hubby for ignoring you lol!
September 27, 2024
Guys - you know me and my fear of reading series out of order - well here's the one time that I absolutely went into a book, knowing full well that this is a book 20 - 😱 - yes, book 20!! of the DCI Logan Crime Thriller Series, and had no fear!
There was never any chance of me catching up with that number of previous books but I've heard so many great things about this series, character and author, that I just couldn't resist dipping my toe in and giving it a go.
So, as expected, there's an immense amount of character backstory that I've missed out on - but somehow, knowing this would be the case, I actually didn't feel too out of the loop here.
There were a few obvious mentions given the case was wholly contained within this book, I just focussed on that throughout.
It seems that this case was quite a different beast for our DCI given that all the evidence was virtual rather than physical and I absolutely loved this about it.
Keeping up with the current trends, having the case centre around influencers and fighting to survive by posting online and gaining likes and follows made this feel current and unique.
I loved Logan and the whole team dynamic.
This is definitely where I noticed my lack of character knowledge and missing development - but each was intriguing and had me wondering about previous cases and personal issues that might have occurred in the previous books.
But, this didn't spoil the overall read for me at all and if anything has spurred me on to try and read more from the series in the future.
The writing was brilliant.
It's very clear that the author has a great affinity with their characters and with a well plotted and perfectly paced storyline, it's easy to see how this series has lasted so long.
I sped through this one and really enjoyed it - I've already added the rest to my wishlist/tbr - just need some more hours in the day now to get caught up!
There was never any chance of me catching up with that number of previous books but I've heard so many great things about this series, character and author, that I just couldn't resist dipping my toe in and giving it a go.
So, as expected, there's an immense amount of character backstory that I've missed out on - but somehow, knowing this would be the case, I actually didn't feel too out of the loop here.
There were a few obvious mentions given the case was wholly contained within this book, I just focussed on that throughout.
It seems that this case was quite a different beast for our DCI given that all the evidence was virtual rather than physical and I absolutely loved this about it.
Keeping up with the current trends, having the case centre around influencers and fighting to survive by posting online and gaining likes and follows made this feel current and unique.
I loved Logan and the whole team dynamic.
This is definitely where I noticed my lack of character knowledge and missing development - but each was intriguing and had me wondering about previous cases and personal issues that might have occurred in the previous books.
But, this didn't spoil the overall read for me at all and if anything has spurred me on to try and read more from the series in the future.
The writing was brilliant.
It's very clear that the author has a great affinity with their characters and with a well plotted and perfectly paced storyline, it's easy to see how this series has lasted so long.
I sped through this one and really enjoyed it - I've already added the rest to my wishlist/tbr - just need some more hours in the day now to get caught up!
September 18, 2024
So nice done it again. I’ve stumbled upon a series, and I’ve started mid way through. It just so happens this is number 20 in the series and I have a lot of catching up to do!
From the very start I felt so connected to our characters. They are so believable and all of them are written in such a way that you feel like you want to sit down and start investigating alongside them and you could fit right in.
The plot was gripping and kept me guessing. As soon as I thought I’d guessed something I was proven wrong. And those are always the best kinds of read!
I really like Jack as a character and even though this book relates back to previous events- it didn’t make it difficult to read this one without the full backstory. Just makes me want to go back and read from the start because I love his character!
A really great read. One I will be recommending and definitely a new author to me that I shall be reading more of!
From the very start I felt so connected to our characters. They are so believable and all of them are written in such a way that you feel like you want to sit down and start investigating alongside them and you could fit right in.
The plot was gripping and kept me guessing. As soon as I thought I’d guessed something I was proven wrong. And those are always the best kinds of read!
I really like Jack as a character and even though this book relates back to previous events- it didn’t make it difficult to read this one without the full backstory. Just makes me want to go back and read from the start because I love his character!
A really great read. One I will be recommending and definitely a new author to me that I shall be reading more of!
November 10, 2024
My 6P review: Publication, Plot, People, Place, Prose/Pace, Praise
Eight social influencers disappear only to be livestreamed shown in underground cells in a sadistic battle to survive. DCI Jack Logan need to navigate the darkest corners of the internet to find this killer. Darker corners and deepest secrets are also exposed during the course of the investigation.
Oh, the internet and young influencers!! What people will do to obtain fame!
DCI Jack Logan is at it again with his wonderful team all of which continue to develop including Hoon’s wife, Berta. There are a lot of characters, but Kirk writes them so well that I never have to second guess who is who.
This is one series I wish I had not caught up on as it always feels like a long wait until the next instalment.
This had a fantastic plot which had me second guessing. There were also a couple of heart-racing moments and oh the ending- wow.
Love, love, love this series
Eight social influencers disappear only to be livestreamed shown in underground cells in a sadistic battle to survive. DCI Jack Logan need to navigate the darkest corners of the internet to find this killer. Darker corners and deepest secrets are also exposed during the course of the investigation.
Oh, the internet and young influencers!! What people will do to obtain fame!
DCI Jack Logan is at it again with his wonderful team all of which continue to develop including Hoon’s wife, Berta. There are a lot of characters, but Kirk writes them so well that I never have to second guess who is who.
This is one series I wish I had not caught up on as it always feels like a long wait until the next instalment.
This had a fantastic plot which had me second guessing. There were also a couple of heart-racing moments and oh the ending- wow.
Love, love, love this series
September 15, 2024
Another brilliant read by JD Kirk. A few brilliant twists in the latter chapters. False clues along the way alongside the twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout. JD Kirk is one of those authors that keeps me guessing throughout and this book is no exception. It is so cleverly written!
I have read the other Logan books and love the development of the characters - the team really are a family. Love the Scottish humour - it is brilliant - a few laugh out loud moments which really just adds to the story and the family feel of the crew.
Would thoroughly recommend if you enjoy a well-written, well-paced crime thriller, with pieces of Scottish humour sewn in - you also don't need to start from the beginning of the Logan books (although there may be some details that cast back to those books, it's not an absolute must).
I have read the other Logan books and love the development of the characters - the team really are a family. Love the Scottish humour - it is brilliant - a few laugh out loud moments which really just adds to the story and the family feel of the crew.
Would thoroughly recommend if you enjoy a well-written, well-paced crime thriller, with pieces of Scottish humour sewn in - you also don't need to start from the beginning of the Logan books (although there may be some details that cast back to those books, it's not an absolute must).
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