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Ty Buchanan #2
Try Darkness
Ty Buchanan is living on the peaceful grounds of St. Monica's, far away from the glamorous life he led as a rising trial lawyer for a big L.A. firm. Recovering from the death of his fianc+e and a false accusation of murder, Buchanan has found his previous ambitions unrewarding. Now he prefers offering legal services to the poor and the under-represented, from his "office" at local coffee bar The Freudian Sip. A mysterious woman with a six year old daughter comes to him for help. She's being illegally evicted from a downtown transient hotel, an interest represented by his old law firm and former best friend, Al Bradshaw. Buchanan won't back down. He's going to fight for the woman's rights.But then she ends up dead, and the case moves from the courtroom to the streets. Determined to find the killer and protect the little girl, who has no last name and no other family, Buchanan finds he must depend on skills he never needed in the employ of a civil law firm.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
252 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
James Scott Bell
132 books1,032 followersJim is a former trial lawyer who now writes and speaks full time. He is the bestselling author of Try Dying, No Legal Grounds, Presumed Guilty, Glimpses of Paradise, Breach of Promise and several other thrillers. He is a winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Inspirational Fiction, and was a fiction columnist for Writers Digest magazine. He has written two books in the Writers' Digest series, Write Great Fiction: Plot & Structure and Revision & Self-Editing.
Jim has taught writing at Pepperdine University and numerous writers conferences. He attended the University of California, Santa Barbara where he studied writing with Raymond Carver.
Series:
* Shannon Saga (with Tracie Peterson)
* The Trials of Kit Shannon
* Ty Buchanan
Jim has taught writing at Pepperdine University and numerous writers conferences. He attended the University of California, Santa Barbara where he studied writing with Raymond Carver.
Series:
* Shannon Saga (with Tracie Peterson)
* The Trials of Kit Shannon
* Ty Buchanan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 14, 2020
Ty Buchanan is back in the second book of the James Scott Bell series. This installment is even better than the first. It is such a joy to read a book that is clever, well written and with characters that you can love.
February 14, 2015
Ever since his first novel came out in 1995, James Scott Bell's been an author to watch. "The Darwin Conspiracy", a sometimes tongue-in-cheek look at the evolution debate, put him on our radar. Two years later his legal thriller "Circumstantial Evidence" debuted, and since then Jim hasn't strayed too far from his suspense groove. In fact, when you pick up a Bell novel you can count on his trademark tag-line "The Suspense Never Rests" to be true.
That's certainly the case for his new Ty Buchanan crime/mystery series. In "Try Dying" (Book 1), Ty's character was established. He's a fighter, an attorney you don't want to push too hard. Yet we always suspected he had a softer side. Now in "Try Darkness" (Book 2), a little girl's mother is murdered and Ty becomes her impromptu guardian. Fatherly instincts Ty didn't even know he had bubble to the surface. He'll do anything to defend the young life under his care. Why was her mother murdered? What connection does the crime have with charges the mother was about to bring to the motel ready to evict them? As usual, there's much more going on than first meets the eye, and it's up to Ty to unravel the mystery and keep himself and his friends alive in the process.
Ty's character has developed, and he now gives legal advice to the poor and downtrodden. The pursuit of justice for his clients keeps him going and awake at night. He already lost everything in Try Dying, and he's still living at the St. Monica's community. So he has nothing to lose and little fear, a dangerous combination for his opponents. Not that he doesn't have his vulnerabilities--the wind's knocked out of him more than once. But like the crime fiction heroes of yesteryear, Ty Buchanan always clambers back on his feet. Even in the bleakest moments he'll press on--sometimes bleeding, sometimes barely able to see straight.
Every hero needs a confidant, and Ty's basketball wielding friend Sister Mary fills more pages here than in the first book. We're delving deeper into her character as she grapples with the struggle between her faith as a nun and the rules and regulations of the Benedictine community. Father Bob makes appearances as well, always available to offer wisdom and a caring ear to Ty.
Fans of Bell's previous inspirational novels won't be disappointed. In some ways the faith elements are even more prominent in this series, since the St. Monica's setting naturally sparks some spiritual conversations. But hard-boiled crime fiction lovers need not fear being preached at or hammered over the head with a "message". The story always takes center stage.
James Scott Bell's goal for this series was to write books in the vein of the great crime fiction stories of the 40's and 50's like "The Big Sleep" & "The Maltese Falcon". And for those weary of the gratuitous violence, sex, and language found in much of today's crime novels the Ty Buchanan series will be a breath of fresh air. Yes, bad stuff happens, but we aren't forced to watch it unfold in technicolor.
The scenes zoom. The plot zips. The dialogue zings. And the spiritual thread challenges us to re-think our worldview. It's almost like watching a movie unfold across the pages. As always, Jim is a wizard of surprises. Just when we think we might have things figured out he throws in a spiral we never saw coming. Nary a wasted word and packed with action, "Try Darkness" is even better than "Try Dying".
That's certainly the case for his new Ty Buchanan crime/mystery series. In "Try Dying" (Book 1), Ty's character was established. He's a fighter, an attorney you don't want to push too hard. Yet we always suspected he had a softer side. Now in "Try Darkness" (Book 2), a little girl's mother is murdered and Ty becomes her impromptu guardian. Fatherly instincts Ty didn't even know he had bubble to the surface. He'll do anything to defend the young life under his care. Why was her mother murdered? What connection does the crime have with charges the mother was about to bring to the motel ready to evict them? As usual, there's much more going on than first meets the eye, and it's up to Ty to unravel the mystery and keep himself and his friends alive in the process.
Ty's character has developed, and he now gives legal advice to the poor and downtrodden. The pursuit of justice for his clients keeps him going and awake at night. He already lost everything in Try Dying, and he's still living at the St. Monica's community. So he has nothing to lose and little fear, a dangerous combination for his opponents. Not that he doesn't have his vulnerabilities--the wind's knocked out of him more than once. But like the crime fiction heroes of yesteryear, Ty Buchanan always clambers back on his feet. Even in the bleakest moments he'll press on--sometimes bleeding, sometimes barely able to see straight.
Every hero needs a confidant, and Ty's basketball wielding friend Sister Mary fills more pages here than in the first book. We're delving deeper into her character as she grapples with the struggle between her faith as a nun and the rules and regulations of the Benedictine community. Father Bob makes appearances as well, always available to offer wisdom and a caring ear to Ty.
Fans of Bell's previous inspirational novels won't be disappointed. In some ways the faith elements are even more prominent in this series, since the St. Monica's setting naturally sparks some spiritual conversations. But hard-boiled crime fiction lovers need not fear being preached at or hammered over the head with a "message". The story always takes center stage.
James Scott Bell's goal for this series was to write books in the vein of the great crime fiction stories of the 40's and 50's like "The Big Sleep" & "The Maltese Falcon". And for those weary of the gratuitous violence, sex, and language found in much of today's crime novels the Ty Buchanan series will be a breath of fresh air. Yes, bad stuff happens, but we aren't forced to watch it unfold in technicolor.
The scenes zoom. The plot zips. The dialogue zings. And the spiritual thread challenges us to re-think our worldview. It's almost like watching a movie unfold across the pages. As always, Jim is a wizard of surprises. Just when we think we might have things figured out he throws in a spiral we never saw coming. Nary a wasted word and packed with action, "Try Darkness" is even better than "Try Dying".
July 30, 2018
Try Darkness by James Scott Bell is a mystery featuring private detective/attorney Ty Buchanan. Having recently left a prestigious law firm to go out on his own, Ty focuses on representing the poor and other underrepresented clients. One of his first cases involves a woman who is being evicted from her apartment. She is subsequently murdered and Ty finds himself representing her six year old daughter. His old law firm is representing the opposition and Buchanan must use all his expertise and street smarts to protect her interests.
April 18, 2020
Ty Buchanan has taken the job of a woman and her six-year-old daughter who's been illegally evicted from a downtown transient hotel. Then the mom turns up dead. Ty continues to investigate.
I love a story that involves a child, Kylie. Add a bold nun and the read is great. The reader is taken from mansions, yachts, all the way to the underbelly of LA.
This story took unexpected turns. Stayed interesting. Filled with tense-driven scenes. Ty doesn't back down. It makes him a great character and it makes for an exciting read. Tension stayed high all the way until the end.
I love a story that involves a child, Kylie. Add a bold nun and the read is great. The reader is taken from mansions, yachts, all the way to the underbelly of LA.
This story took unexpected turns. Stayed interesting. Filled with tense-driven scenes. Ty doesn't back down. It makes him a great character and it makes for an exciting read. Tension stayed high all the way until the end.
July 10, 2021
This is the second in the Ty Buchanan series, and I enjoyed it more than the first. (You should read the first, Try Dying, to know the ongoing characters and their backgrounds, though.) The writing style is different from Bell's other books. He has some one-liners that made me laugh out loud. I didn't think I'd want to read a legal thriller with some comedy, but it's very well done; it doesn't distract from the serious theme. I really enjoyed it, would highly recommend it, and I'm enjoying the third in the series now, Try Fear.
March 27, 2023
Another keeper from Mr. Bell. Weaving warmly special personal interactions among a disparate group of characters, he has managed to tell an interesting tale within tales within the tale with humor (including some laugh-out-loud moments) that kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed. But the lack of sleep was well worth it. I got up the next day and immediately started into the next book in the series (I'd already read the first one and enjoyed enough to launch into the second).
March 1, 2025
James Scott Bell Far and Away One of My Favorite Authors!
Reading any book by James Scott Bell is going to appeal to the reader on so many levels. He writes a terrific mystery filled with lots of twists and turns and a cast of well-fleshed out and realistic characters (no cardboard cutout characters here). The dialogue is snappy and filled with the perfect amount of humor, to keep the story punchy and moving along at a rapid pace. I can't wait to read the next in the series. Highly recommended!
Reading any book by James Scott Bell is going to appeal to the reader on so many levels. He writes a terrific mystery filled with lots of twists and turns and a cast of well-fleshed out and realistic characters (no cardboard cutout characters here). The dialogue is snappy and filled with the perfect amount of humor, to keep the story punchy and moving along at a rapid pace. I can't wait to read the next in the series. Highly recommended!
October 21, 2021
Wow Bell did it again. After the Romeo Series I wasn't sure I'd like his stories. He proved me wrong.. James Scott Bell has moved to my list of great mystery writer.
This story has enough twists and turns to keep the reader wondering what's next right down to the end. So readers you have to try Bell's books. I did and I'm glad.
This story has enough twists and turns to keep the reader wondering what's next right down to the end. So readers you have to try Bell's books. I did and I'm glad.
March 24, 2024
Again Bell scores!
Just incredible how Bell continues Ty's story with fresh new characters that are beyond colorful and continuing with some of the past characters. The stories within the story are well thought out and expressed in a way that keeps you intrigued and wanting more. Can't wait for the next one!
Just incredible how Bell continues Ty's story with fresh new characters that are beyond colorful and continuing with some of the past characters. The stories within the story are well thought out and expressed in a way that keeps you intrigued and wanting more. Can't wait for the next one!
June 27, 2020
Awesome, superior book
This was my favorite of all of the James Scott Bell books I've read so far! Full of thrill, excitement and romance I couldn't hardly put it down! So looking forward to the next one!
This was my favorite of all of the James Scott Bell books I've read so far! Full of thrill, excitement and romance I couldn't hardly put it down! So looking forward to the next one!
August 3, 2021
Great read
I am loving the Ty Buchanan series. Ty's quick witted humor makes me chuckle and keeps the story light. The plot keeps the story interesting, and the twists and turns keep you guessing as to how it will end.
I am loving the Ty Buchanan series. Ty's quick witted humor makes me chuckle and keeps the story light. The plot keeps the story interesting, and the twists and turns keep you guessing as to how it will end.
June 18, 2022
I'm all over this series. This one is better than "Try Dying". I love Ty Buchanan's sense of humor and his relentless search for justice. I hope there will be more than just three in the series. I rate this one 5 stars.
June 11, 2023
My Favorite of Bell’s Work Yet
Try Darkness is a fast, compelling thriller with lots of interesting characters and constant surprises. I love the main character who is compassionate, sometimes introspective, and often ready to rumble. Try Darkness is an excellent read.
Try Darkness is a fast, compelling thriller with lots of interesting characters and constant surprises. I love the main character who is compassionate, sometimes introspective, and often ready to rumble. Try Darkness is an excellent read.
September 2, 2023
Excellent author.
Once again , mister James Scott Bell produced a real page turner. He is very good at creating a very interesting story. With a little bit of every aspect of life in the story.
Good reading.
Once again , mister James Scott Bell produced a real page turner. He is very good at creating a very interesting story. With a little bit of every aspect of life in the story.
Good reading.
November 16, 2018
Great read
Really enjoy this author, good suspense but no filth. The characters are likeable and i look forward to next one in series.
Really enjoy this author, good suspense but no filth. The characters are likeable and i look forward to next one in series.
February 5, 2019
Bell's sense of humour and character description really enhances his plot development.
November 4, 2019
Good!
The first two were very good, and I expect number three to follow suit. A great plot with believable characters.
The first two were very good, and I expect number three to follow suit. A great plot with believable characters.
April 3, 2020
Try Darkness ( Th Buchanan Legal Thriller #2)
This is the second book in this series and it is a good story and a lawyer works to help others
This is the second book in this series and it is a good story and a lawyer works to help others
March 12, 2021
Snarky Lawyer who has Heart
Read this book if you like quick wit and a smart lawyer who has a heart for the little guy
Read this book if you like quick wit and a smart lawyer who has a heart for the little guy
April 2, 2021
Maybe best of the series
Great characters, lots of action ,case solved. One of my favorite writers.Looking forwArd to last book of series.Keep it up.
Great characters, lots of action ,case solved. One of my favorite writers.Looking forwArd to last book of series.Keep it up.
April 5, 2021
Read it, you will not be disappointed
Fast paced, plenty of action. Twists and turns to get you thinking. Love this author and all his books. Can't wait to read the next one.
Fast paced, plenty of action. Twists and turns to get you thinking. Love this author and all his books. Can't wait to read the next one.
August 5, 2021
Great legal thriller
Great read. Funny and suspenseful at the same time. I love this author. His books will keep you coming back for more
Great read. Funny and suspenseful at the same time. I love this author. His books will keep you coming back for more
August 8, 2021
Better than the first
And I really liked the first book in this series! Characters were like able (wnenthey were supposed to be) and the plot was well conceived.
And I really liked the first book in this series! Characters were like able (wnenthey were supposed to be) and the plot was well conceived.
March 25, 2022
I am really enjoying this series. Love the characters and can't wait to see where they go from here.
September 15, 2022
awesome read
You will not want to put this one down!! Packed full of suspense and surprises!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I dod
You will not want to put this one down!! Packed full of suspense and surprises!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I dod
January 20, 2023
This is my second book in the series & I couldn't put it down. The characters are credible, the plot is believable. There are some laugh out loud moments. Highly recommend.
November 2, 2023
Pretty good...a bunch of shuck and jive talk, but an OK mystery
December 10, 2023
Page turner...hero and saint
First installment was awesome, and this one is a notch better. Clean thriller, but involved and fast. You won't regret this read.
First installment was awesome, and this one is a notch better. Clean thriller, but involved and fast. You won't regret this read.
November 4, 2024
Another great story!
Bell weaves a fascinating tale filled with twists and turns while filled with characters you have no hope of not becoming invested in.
Bell weaves a fascinating tale filled with twists and turns while filled with characters you have no hope of not becoming invested in.
February 20, 2025
Problem
Fast moving, exciting, thrilling and downright awesome. Life as a former Big Corporation lawyer seems to be paying off for Ty Buchanan. Interesting life he leads.
Fast moving, exciting, thrilling and downright awesome. Life as a former Big Corporation lawyer seems to be paying off for Ty Buchanan. Interesting life he leads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews