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Timothy Blake #1
Hangman
A 14-year-old boy vanishes on his way home from school. His frantic mother receives a disturbing ransom call. It's only hours before the deadline, and the police have no leads.
Enter Timothy Blake, codename Hangman. Blake is a genius, known for solving impossible cases. He's also a sociopath - the FBI's last resort.
But this time Blake might have met his match. The kidnapper is more cunning and ruthless than anyone he's faced before. And Blake has been assigned a new partner, a woman linked to the past he's so desperate to forget.
Timothy Blake has a secret, one so dark he will do anything to keep it hidden.
And he also has a price. Every time he saves a life, he takes one…
Already sold into five territories, Hangman is a mesmerising dissection of the criminal mind and a bulletproof thriller.
‘Jack Heath’s Hangman is a perverse, twisted take on a crime novel—and I loved every page of it. What a rarity to find a thriller as dark as a Palahniuk and as compulsively readable as a Patterson. Two well-chewed thumbs up for Hangman.’ —Gregg Hurwitz, NYT-Bestselling author of Hellbent
‘Jack Heath’s writing grabs you by the throat, gnaws on your bones, and washes it all down with a hefty dose of funny. Sick, twisted, violent, and oh so good. In Timothy Blake, Heath has created a one-of-a-kind character. I hope.’ —Emma Viskic, internationally bestselling author of And Fire Came Down
‘Wild and original, HANGMAN stamps a high and bloodied mark on this dark genre. Hannibal Lecter will be adding Jack Heath to his reading list.’ —Ben Sanders, internationally bestselling author of American Blood
Enter Timothy Blake, codename Hangman. Blake is a genius, known for solving impossible cases. He's also a sociopath - the FBI's last resort.
But this time Blake might have met his match. The kidnapper is more cunning and ruthless than anyone he's faced before. And Blake has been assigned a new partner, a woman linked to the past he's so desperate to forget.
Timothy Blake has a secret, one so dark he will do anything to keep it hidden.
And he also has a price. Every time he saves a life, he takes one…
Already sold into five territories, Hangman is a mesmerising dissection of the criminal mind and a bulletproof thriller.
‘Jack Heath’s Hangman is a perverse, twisted take on a crime novel—and I loved every page of it. What a rarity to find a thriller as dark as a Palahniuk and as compulsively readable as a Patterson. Two well-chewed thumbs up for Hangman.’ —Gregg Hurwitz, NYT-Bestselling author of Hellbent
‘Jack Heath’s writing grabs you by the throat, gnaws on your bones, and washes it all down with a hefty dose of funny. Sick, twisted, violent, and oh so good. In Timothy Blake, Heath has created a one-of-a-kind character. I hope.’ —Emma Viskic, internationally bestselling author of And Fire Came Down
‘Wild and original, HANGMAN stamps a high and bloodied mark on this dark genre. Hannibal Lecter will be adding Jack Heath to his reading list.’ —Ben Sanders, internationally bestselling author of American Blood
379 pages, Paperback
First published March 22, 2018
313 people are currently reading
5823 people want to read
About the author
Jack Heath
67 books824 followersJack Heath wrote his debut novel, The Lab, in secondary school and sent it to a publisher at age seventeen. He's now the award-winning author of forty novels for adults and children, including the international bestsellers Hangman, The Wife Swap and 300 Minutes of Danger. His books have been translated into ten languages, optioned for TV and adapted for film. He lives on Ngunnawal/Ngambri country in Canberra, Australia, with his wife, their children, several chickens, a few fish and a possum named Oreo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 802 reviews
February 4, 2024
~ WICKEDLY & WILD ENTERTAINMENT ~
Sherlock Holmes meets Hannibal Lecter in this bizarre, yet oddly-compelling, Crime Thriller.
Our main character, Timothy Blake, is a cannibal. Yes, you read that correctly. A freaking cannibal.
He ends up making a deal with an FBI Agent, that he will help with tough investigations in exchange for free lunch. By that I mean, bodies. Free bodies.
Why would an FBI Agent want his assistance? Because Timothy is a freaking genius, of course!
A modern-day Sherlock Holmes, complete with photographic memory, who obviously can see into the minds of criminals because, well, he IS one. Also, he knows about the Agent's coke habit, so there's that...
Intrigued yet?
You should be.
I would recommend this book to ANYONE who loves a new twist on the thriller genre. Obviously, you need to be open-minded with the concept behind this but I tell you, Timothy Blake, is pretty lovable. Honestly, the first cannibal I have ever rooted for in a novel.
But in addition to the weirdness of it all, this is actually a really taut crime thriller. There were a few times that I was convinced I knew what the answer was to the string of kidnappings Blake was trying to unravel, but in the end, I turned out wrong every time and was surprised by the reveal.
The writing style was fast-paced and the mystery well-developed. It's definitely dark and gruesome, so if that is something you aren't into, best to stay clear of this one! This author does not shy away from putting grit on the page.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Hanover Square Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity and hope this is slated to be a series. I would hate to think that this is the last I am ever going to see of Timothy Blake.
There's more to his story, I can just feel it!
Sherlock Holmes meets Hannibal Lecter in this bizarre, yet oddly-compelling, Crime Thriller.
Our main character, Timothy Blake, is a cannibal. Yes, you read that correctly. A freaking cannibal.
He ends up making a deal with an FBI Agent, that he will help with tough investigations in exchange for free lunch. By that I mean, bodies. Free bodies.
Why would an FBI Agent want his assistance? Because Timothy is a freaking genius, of course!
A modern-day Sherlock Holmes, complete with photographic memory, who obviously can see into the minds of criminals because, well, he IS one. Also, he knows about the Agent's coke habit, so there's that...
Intrigued yet?
You should be.
I would recommend this book to ANYONE who loves a new twist on the thriller genre. Obviously, you need to be open-minded with the concept behind this but I tell you, Timothy Blake, is pretty lovable. Honestly, the first cannibal I have ever rooted for in a novel.
But in addition to the weirdness of it all, this is actually a really taut crime thriller. There were a few times that I was convinced I knew what the answer was to the string of kidnappings Blake was trying to unravel, but in the end, I turned out wrong every time and was surprised by the reveal.
The writing style was fast-paced and the mystery well-developed. It's definitely dark and gruesome, so if that is something you aren't into, best to stay clear of this one! This author does not shy away from putting grit on the page.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Hanover Square Press, for providing me with a copy to read and review. I appreciate the opportunity and hope this is slated to be a series. I would hate to think that this is the last I am ever going to see of Timothy Blake.
There's more to his story, I can just feel it!
November 30, 2023
This book! Argh...! I loved this book! I finished about a week ago, and it was a firm 4 star rating. But, I'm still thinking about Timothy Blake. He's so psychologically damaged with these cannibalistic compulsions that are out of control. Seriously, I would not want to be anywhere near this man. He just might eat me. Sure, I'd be stringy, and not very palatable, but he'd want to bite into me just the same! He's got a deal where if he solves a crime and saves a life, then he gets to eat someone. Good thing for him that Huntsville, Texas has a steady supply of death row inmates. Yum, tasty! Bring your spices and hook up the BBQ pit to the back of your Dodge Ram! Slow cooking! . So tender! O.K., so he hides them away, like a thief in the night in his unlocked freezer? Hey, what the hell is this foot doing in here? Which is almost what literally happens. Huh? Yeah, he's actually really smart, but...Timothy needs an intervention. He's a hungry, hungry hippo, and he's also someone who is hard to dislike, which makes for some compulsive reading, and a few queasy moments. I'd love to see this guy get his urges under control, "less murderous" and find some real connections with people. Without wanting to eat them. Hey, get a few friends, and just eat the death row guys! Tim's had a real messed up life, and I'll admit I'm curious as all get out to see how the next book is going to play out. There is going to be a next book, right? Seriously, I need more of these. So, it ended a 4 star, but because I can't stop thinking about it, I guess I'll have to up the ante to 5. My thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for allowing me to read this absolutely disgusting, mystery/Horror story for the price of a review. This book gets a high recommendation from me. More please!
July 24, 2024
‘The illusion lasts only a moment. The man is nothing more than a reflection of me. Both a person and a monster.’
Hangman by Jack Heath is a thrilling and intense ride from start to finish. Set in the world of crime and mystery, this novel follows the story of Timothy Blake, a civilian consultant for the FBI with a dark secret: he's a notorious serial killer.
Jack Heath masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending elements of suspense, intrigue, and psychological drama. The character of Timothy Blake is complex and morally ambiguous, making for a compelling protagonist who constantly keeps readers guessing about his next move.
The pacing of the novel is relentless, with twists and turns at every corner that will leave readers breathless. Heath's writing is crisp and vivid, immersing readers in the gritty underworld of crime and punishment.
What sets Hangman apart is its exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil, and the lengths one will go to in order to survive. It's a gripping exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of one's actions.
Overall, Hangman is a gripping and thought provoking thriller that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Highly Recommend.
Hangman by Jack Heath is a thrilling and intense ride from start to finish. Set in the world of crime and mystery, this novel follows the story of Timothy Blake, a civilian consultant for the FBI with a dark secret: he's a notorious serial killer.
Jack Heath masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, blending elements of suspense, intrigue, and psychological drama. The character of Timothy Blake is complex and morally ambiguous, making for a compelling protagonist who constantly keeps readers guessing about his next move.
The pacing of the novel is relentless, with twists and turns at every corner that will leave readers breathless. Heath's writing is crisp and vivid, immersing readers in the gritty underworld of crime and punishment.
What sets Hangman apart is its exploration of the blurred lines between good and evil, and the lengths one will go to in order to survive. It's a gripping exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of one's actions.
Overall, Hangman is a gripping and thought provoking thriller that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.
Highly Recommend.
March 5, 2019
OMG! What a cracker of a book.
Timothy Blake is a consultant for the FBI in Houston, Texas. Smart and observant, he is an expert at finding kidnapped victims. This time he is called in after the kidnapping of a fourteen year old boy, but everything is not as it seems, and Timothy is pulled into a confusing web that even he gets lost in. And during it all Timothy is nursing a dark, dark secret...
Prepare yourselves for a rollercoaster ride like no other. Hangman is an amazing, original thriller, and Timothy Blake is like no other character you've ever met before. I could easily find myself addicted to this series. Highly recommended.
Timothy Blake is a consultant for the FBI in Houston, Texas. Smart and observant, he is an expert at finding kidnapped victims. This time he is called in after the kidnapping of a fourteen year old boy, but everything is not as it seems, and Timothy is pulled into a confusing web that even he gets lost in. And during it all Timothy is nursing a dark, dark secret...
Prepare yourselves for a rollercoaster ride like no other. Hangman is an amazing, original thriller, and Timothy Blake is like no other character you've ever met before. I could easily find myself addicted to this series. Highly recommended.
September 17, 2018
Tough. Raw. No holds barred! Easy 5 stars. A tasty and oh so clever read. Review of the audio version to follow. Hard copy to be purchased. Riddles to read properly and probably shake my head at. No puns! Audio - amazing narrator!
This was a gritty and fabulously horrendously gripping read. Edge of the seat reading from the get go. The Hangman rips apart every likable thing about a protag, but forces you to like him still, even after discovering the despicable obsession; after all he is a psychopath.
But I still liked him. Is that horrible? Is that terrible?
He steps into cases that cannot be solved in exchange for a bizarre payment, he is clever, witty, and unafraid to be crazy.
I met Jack Heath, he is young, fresh and unafraid to talk his craft in front of an audience. I'd like to know where he gets his ideas from. This really is very good reading, perhaps at its best! Read it and look forward to number two, just as I am.
This was a gritty and fabulously horrendously gripping read. Edge of the seat reading from the get go. The Hangman rips apart every likable thing about a protag, but forces you to like him still, even after discovering the despicable obsession; after all he is a psychopath.
But I still liked him. Is that horrible? Is that terrible?
He steps into cases that cannot be solved in exchange for a bizarre payment, he is clever, witty, and unafraid to be crazy.
I met Jack Heath, he is young, fresh and unafraid to talk his craft in front of an audience. I'd like to know where he gets his ideas from. This really is very good reading, perhaps at its best! Read it and look forward to number two, just as I am.
June 8, 2018
This book has a totally unbelievable premise about a cannibal with a photographic memory who acts as a consultant for the FBI on missing child cases. With me so far? I’m not going to kid you. There are some really gross scenes in this book. Well, what do you expect when you hear the word cannibal?
The mystery itself is decent. You’re not really sure what’s going on with the current kidnapping cases, if they’re connected or not. Or even if there is a second kidnapping. The writer keeps you guessing.
Timothy Blake isn’t what I would call a really fleshed out character. Pardon the pun. You’re given his history and his thoughts, but I still just didn’t feel that he was real.
Coming down on this one as a solid three. It’s a story driven, not character driven, book in my mind. I had no clue as to who the bad guy was.
Each chapter starts with a riddle. If an inability to figure out all the riddles is driving you bonkers, check out Jack Heath’s website where he gives the answers. But don’t read ahead, because he gives you reasons a riddle was attached to a certain chapter which can act as spoilers. The website is Jackheath.com.au
My Thanks to netgalley and Allen & Unwin for an advance copy of this book.
The mystery itself is decent. You’re not really sure what’s going on with the current kidnapping cases, if they’re connected or not. Or even if there is a second kidnapping. The writer keeps you guessing.
Timothy Blake isn’t what I would call a really fleshed out character. Pardon the pun. You’re given his history and his thoughts, but I still just didn’t feel that he was real.
Coming down on this one as a solid three. It’s a story driven, not character driven, book in my mind. I had no clue as to who the bad guy was.
Each chapter starts with a riddle. If an inability to figure out all the riddles is driving you bonkers, check out Jack Heath’s website where he gives the answers. But don’t read ahead, because he gives you reasons a riddle was attached to a certain chapter which can act as spoilers. The website is Jackheath.com.au
My Thanks to netgalley and Allen & Unwin for an advance copy of this book.
February 27, 2020
I was unsure about this one for the first few pages, but once it really got going it was a fantastic read. It is not often that a cannibal is the main character and even the hero of a book, but Timothy Blake has hidden depths and is useful to the FBI.
I really enjoyed the way Blake worked his cases, using his Sherlock like attributes. They only failed him a little towards the end by which time I was jumping up and down and trying to tell him who the kidnapper had to be. Of course he was drugged, beaten up and bleeding heavily at that point so I probably had a clearer perspective of what was going on.
Not a book for the faint hearted or for anyone who would take the whole thing seriously, but if you are looking to be entertained and you like a smart thriller then this is for you.
I really enjoyed the way Blake worked his cases, using his Sherlock like attributes. They only failed him a little towards the end by which time I was jumping up and down and trying to tell him who the kidnapper had to be. Of course he was drugged, beaten up and bleeding heavily at that point so I probably had a clearer perspective of what was going on.
Not a book for the faint hearted or for anyone who would take the whole thing seriously, but if you are looking to be entertained and you like a smart thriller then this is for you.
November 22, 2019
This book was unlike anything I’ve read before and after reading the first few chapters I thought to myself this book is not for me, but I was wrong. I quickly became intrigued and drawn into with the storyline and before I knew it the end of the book was fast approaching.
Hangman by Aussie author Jack Heath is the first book in the Timothy Blake series and I must say I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series. This book is not for the faint-hearted as it contains quite a few gory and bloody scenes as the main character, Timothy Blake is a cannibal something I must say I’ve not read about before in a book, but it really did put a good twist in the book in my opinion.
If you enjoy reading thrillers, mysteries or crime novels with added blood thirsty and gruesome bits then this book is for you.
Hangman by Aussie author Jack Heath is the first book in the Timothy Blake series and I must say I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series. This book is not for the faint-hearted as it contains quite a few gory and bloody scenes as the main character, Timothy Blake is a cannibal something I must say I’ve not read about before in a book, but it really did put a good twist in the book in my opinion.
If you enjoy reading thrillers, mysteries or crime novels with added blood thirsty and gruesome bits then this book is for you.
June 28, 2018
The guy's exquisitely off the charts in his desperate circumstances and exquisitely ugly needs. Too gruesome for a lot of tastes.
Q:
‘Oh, you haven’t heard that one? The government struck a bargain with a cannibal, and they use him to dispose of bodies after executions.’ …
‘Definitely bullshit,’ I clarify. Then I take another bite out of Nigel Boyd’s thigh. (c)
Q:
I always focus on where I am. This isn’t just about memory. When my mind wanders, I don’t like where it goes. (c)
Q:
‘Hey, are you a reporter?’ I ask. ‘I got lots of stories. My whole family’s crazy. My brother, when he’s been drinking, he does some funny shit.’
‘Excuse me a second,’ the woman says. She pulls out her phone and moves to a different seat. Reporters don’t usually want to talk to anyone who wants to talk to them. (c)
Q:
In the dark subways of their unconscious minds, some people believe that no one else is real—that it’s all just a single-player video game, and the other characters don’t matter. (c)
Q:
And I always park in places the cops wouldn’t think to look for a stolen car. Such as the Houston Field Office of the FBI. (c)
Q:
The name plate on his desk reads Director, Houston Field Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, just in case I missed the plaque on the door. (c)
Q:
She’s rubbing her ring finger with her thumb, as though something used to be there. Divorced, probably. (c)
Q:
I wonder what she’s into. Drugs, booze, gambling, frequent flyer miles. Everyone’s addicted to something, especially people in high-stress jobs. If I work out what her thing is I can eventually manipulate her into leaving me alone. The FBI is hopelessly corrupt. Everyone has a price. (c)
Q:
The wind sweeps across the perfect grass and ruffles his grey hair. (с)
Q:
you never went to college.’
Sure I did. I bought pizzas there. (c)
Q:
I don’t want to get in a car that would have me as a passenger. (c)
Q:
I’ve heard him bragging that he never sells anything unless he can personally vouch for the quality. Then again, I’ve also heard him claiming to be ‘the almighty butterfly king’. (c)
Q:
He was a tall, hairy-armed guy who hung his head low like a stegosaurus. (c)
Q:
… counsellors and psychologists scare me. I worry that my face or voice will remind them of the serial killers they studied at college. (c)
Q:
Cops ask the same questions repeatedly for a few reasons. One is so the initial investigator’s report doesn’t bias subsequent lines of questioning—everyone on the case gets the chance to form their own opinions. The other is to check for inconsistencies, see if a witness is telling the truth. Since I’m lying my ass off, that’s the part that concerns me. (c)
Q:
Anyone who lives in a big city has walked past at least one murderer. And they didn’t get chills. They didn’t look twice. They kept walking. (c)
Q:
Actually I’ve been kind of hoping the kidnapper might come back. Next time I’ll be ready. It’ll be like a guilt-free delivery of takeout. (c)
Q:
‘Oh, you haven’t heard that one? The government struck a bargain with a cannibal, and they use him to dispose of bodies after executions.’ …
‘Definitely bullshit,’ I clarify. Then I take another bite out of Nigel Boyd’s thigh. (c)
Q:
I always focus on where I am. This isn’t just about memory. When my mind wanders, I don’t like where it goes. (c)
Q:
‘Hey, are you a reporter?’ I ask. ‘I got lots of stories. My whole family’s crazy. My brother, when he’s been drinking, he does some funny shit.’
‘Excuse me a second,’ the woman says. She pulls out her phone and moves to a different seat. Reporters don’t usually want to talk to anyone who wants to talk to them. (c)
Q:
In the dark subways of their unconscious minds, some people believe that no one else is real—that it’s all just a single-player video game, and the other characters don’t matter. (c)
Q:
And I always park in places the cops wouldn’t think to look for a stolen car. Such as the Houston Field Office of the FBI. (c)
Q:
The name plate on his desk reads Director, Houston Field Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, just in case I missed the plaque on the door. (c)
Q:
She’s rubbing her ring finger with her thumb, as though something used to be there. Divorced, probably. (c)
Q:
I wonder what she’s into. Drugs, booze, gambling, frequent flyer miles. Everyone’s addicted to something, especially people in high-stress jobs. If I work out what her thing is I can eventually manipulate her into leaving me alone. The FBI is hopelessly corrupt. Everyone has a price. (c)
Q:
The wind sweeps across the perfect grass and ruffles his grey hair. (с)
Q:
you never went to college.’
Sure I did. I bought pizzas there. (c)
Q:
I don’t want to get in a car that would have me as a passenger. (c)
Q:
I’ve heard him bragging that he never sells anything unless he can personally vouch for the quality. Then again, I’ve also heard him claiming to be ‘the almighty butterfly king’. (c)
Q:
He was a tall, hairy-armed guy who hung his head low like a stegosaurus. (c)
Q:
… counsellors and psychologists scare me. I worry that my face or voice will remind them of the serial killers they studied at college. (c)
Q:
Cops ask the same questions repeatedly for a few reasons. One is so the initial investigator’s report doesn’t bias subsequent lines of questioning—everyone on the case gets the chance to form their own opinions. The other is to check for inconsistencies, see if a witness is telling the truth. Since I’m lying my ass off, that’s the part that concerns me. (c)
Q:
Anyone who lives in a big city has walked past at least one murderer. And they didn’t get chills. They didn’t look twice. They kept walking. (c)
Q:
Actually I’ve been kind of hoping the kidnapper might come back. Next time I’ll be ready. It’ll be like a guilt-free delivery of takeout. (c)
June 5, 2019
Well this wasn't what I was expecting!
Timothy Blake is a bit of an outcast, but an intelligent, perceptive one who sees things that others don't. He is also a psychopath with most unusual appetites. Under his codename of Hangman, he makes a living solving difficult puzzles and riddles sent to him by his fans, but he also consults for the FBI when they need his special insight to help solve troublesome cases and receives his payment in a most irregular way.
Blake's current case is a kidnapping where nothing makes sense. It's a complex case with many twists and turns before the pieces all fall into place. The writing is gripping and imaginative and Blake is a most unusual character. The book won't appeal to everyone due to Blake's unnatural appetites . However, despite his proclivities, he is a very likeable character and I was most pleased to see he will be back in a sequel with a new boss able to supply his needs.
Timothy Blake is a bit of an outcast, but an intelligent, perceptive one who sees things that others don't. He is also a psychopath with most unusual appetites. Under his codename of Hangman, he makes a living solving difficult puzzles and riddles sent to him by his fans, but he also consults for the FBI when they need his special insight to help solve troublesome cases and receives his payment in a most irregular way.
Blake's current case is a kidnapping where nothing makes sense. It's a complex case with many twists and turns before the pieces all fall into place. The writing is gripping and imaginative and Blake is a most unusual character. The book won't appeal to everyone due to Blake's unnatural appetites . However, despite his proclivities, he is a very likeable character and I was most pleased to see he will be back in a sequel with a new boss able to supply his needs.
December 19, 2019
WOWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!! I loved this book, I have waited a long time to get my teeth into this one & finally I did & it didn't disappoint. Chapter by chapter you could feel the tension building, the pacing was top notch & the characters were well developed, I could NOT put this down I just had to keep reading to see what was going to happen with Timothy & Reese they were a good partnership.
Timothy Blake is brought in to solve crimes when the FBI cannot, he is psychologically damaged past makes him cannibalistic its compulsive& that's his reward for solving crimes , his partner Reese Thistle has had a hard time being a woman in a man's world she is good at her job & knows it.
Detective Luzhin bullies suspects into giving him information he was very well written, I loved his dark side, This book is not for the faint of heart its very dark & disturbing due to the subject matter, I really loved reading about Timothy Blake & look forward to his development in the next book , was a awesome start to a series & YAY another author for me am still thinking about Timothy Blake its so good to get your teeth into a character even though he is cannibalistic & still love him a solid 5 ***** read.
Timothy Blake is brought in to solve crimes when the FBI cannot, he is psychologically damaged past makes him cannibalistic its compulsive& that's his reward for solving crimes , his partner Reese Thistle has had a hard time being a woman in a man's world she is good at her job & knows it.
Detective Luzhin bullies suspects into giving him information he was very well written, I loved his dark side, This book is not for the faint of heart its very dark & disturbing due to the subject matter, I really loved reading about Timothy Blake & look forward to his development in the next book , was a awesome start to a series & YAY another author for me am still thinking about Timothy Blake its so good to get your teeth into a character even though he is cannibalistic & still love him a solid 5 ***** read.
July 27, 2024
What a ride Hangman had me on from page one through its shocking ending. Timothy Blake is like no other character I have come across before. Despite being one scary sociopath, he is also surprisingly likable and often endearing. He helps the FBI solve cases (for highly unusual reasons which are revealed within the pages) and is extremely insightful, clever and successful in this role. The case he is on in this first book of the series is a true cat and mouse chase. The ending is quite believable and (to me) very surprising. This is one fantastic read - full of mystery, suspense, a bit of romance, satire, and limitless horror. Glad I already downloaded book. because Consider me hooked.
February 20, 2018
Whoa…what did I just read? Before I start my blab, first things first. This is a well written & gripping crime/suspense story with a compelling MC. But…it’s not for the squeably. Seriously. Ok, we’re going in.
Timothy Blake is not your typical FBI consultant. He has little education, lives with a paranoid drug dealer & has about $5 to his name. Years ago he had a run-in with a cop named Peter Luzhin that left a lasting impression on both of them. Luzhin is now director of the FBI office in Houston & when a case can’t be cracked, he calls Blake. A successful resolution means Blake gets paid with the only kind of currency he wants.
It all begins with a missing teenage boy. There are plenty of red herrings & inconsistencies but eventually Blake is sure he’s got it sussed. Besides, he really needs to collect his fee. Unfortunately it’s not that simple & Blake is soon caught in a complex web designed by a devious & intelligent killer. Being partnered with a new handler is not helping. Special Agent Reese Thistle is not thrilled about her new assignment, either. She doesn’t understand why Luzhin has brought in this odd outsider who looks likes a homeless guy. But then she sees him work.
Blake is a master at solving puzzles. His sharp, analytical mind notices the tiny details everyone else has missed. Anything out of place, something missing & all the little facial tics & vocal tells that make up a lie. Initially you wonder how this brilliant guy ended up in such dire straits. But through flashbacks interspersed with the story we get the 411 on Blake’s childhood & begin to piece together how the little boy became this man.
The investigative aspect of the story is fast paced & layered, But what really kept me reading was Blake. And believe me, given his proclivities, that’s no small feat. He’s smart, complicated & dryly funny. His history & present circumstances are heartbreaking at times. Then reality would come crashing in & I’d be utterly repelled by his behaviour. No matter what you end up thinking about him, you have to be impressed by the author’s ability to make you feel such polarized emotions so keenly.
So there you have it. It won’t be for everyone & no doubt there will be lots of chatter about this one. My best advice if you’re thinking of cracking the cover is choose a brightly lit room, take your heart medication & maybe keep a wee beverage nearby. You’ll probably need it.
Timothy Blake is not your typical FBI consultant. He has little education, lives with a paranoid drug dealer & has about $5 to his name. Years ago he had a run-in with a cop named Peter Luzhin that left a lasting impression on both of them. Luzhin is now director of the FBI office in Houston & when a case can’t be cracked, he calls Blake. A successful resolution means Blake gets paid with the only kind of currency he wants.
It all begins with a missing teenage boy. There are plenty of red herrings & inconsistencies but eventually Blake is sure he’s got it sussed. Besides, he really needs to collect his fee. Unfortunately it’s not that simple & Blake is soon caught in a complex web designed by a devious & intelligent killer. Being partnered with a new handler is not helping. Special Agent Reese Thistle is not thrilled about her new assignment, either. She doesn’t understand why Luzhin has brought in this odd outsider who looks likes a homeless guy. But then she sees him work.
Blake is a master at solving puzzles. His sharp, analytical mind notices the tiny details everyone else has missed. Anything out of place, something missing & all the little facial tics & vocal tells that make up a lie. Initially you wonder how this brilliant guy ended up in such dire straits. But through flashbacks interspersed with the story we get the 411 on Blake’s childhood & begin to piece together how the little boy became this man.
The investigative aspect of the story is fast paced & layered, But what really kept me reading was Blake. And believe me, given his proclivities, that’s no small feat. He’s smart, complicated & dryly funny. His history & present circumstances are heartbreaking at times. Then reality would come crashing in & I’d be utterly repelled by his behaviour. No matter what you end up thinking about him, you have to be impressed by the author’s ability to make you feel such polarized emotions so keenly.
So there you have it. It won’t be for everyone & no doubt there will be lots of chatter about this one. My best advice if you’re thinking of cracking the cover is choose a brightly lit room, take your heart medication & maybe keep a wee beverage nearby. You’ll probably need it.
April 7, 2018
Books with FBI agents should have their own sub-genre since so many mysteries and thrillers feature the FBI. In addition, FBI books seem to have their own sub-genres. A reader can find no frills crime stories, romantic suspense, paranormal, “profiler”, prepper FBI, criminal FBI agents, espionage FBI agent, undercover agent, trashy love stories, and now there is Hangman. Hangman deserves its own category.
This is going to be very hard to rate. Hangman was very well written with a great plot. Although I found parts of it a bit weak.
But the characters, oh the characters; I had a terribly hard time warming up to the main character, young, twisted Timothy Blake (Scary Timmy) who was an FBI consultant due to his incredible eye for detail. For example he could be brought to a money drop in a large parking lot and from the cars and people walking around and extrapolate the criminal picking up the money. When Blake explains how, it makes perfect sense.
Scary Timmy is brought in on a kidnapping case. He doesn’t do well with it and is stymied at every turn. At the same time, his life which isn’t much to begin with, begins to fall apart.
The director of Houston’s FBI office, Peter Luhzin, found Blake’s talents invaluable for solving cases with the FBI. Each knows the other’s secret and so have each other’s backs; or more accurately, over the barrel. While working on the case, Blake finds someone from his past, who also shared the misery of the foster system.
Scary Timmy was one of the hardest characters I have ever read. Ever. And yet, when he faces great adversity, I wanted him to overcome it; and at the end I was happy to see new employment opportunities for Blake (I’m sniggering here) and the vague niggling thought of “I wonder if there will be another book”.
Blake makes a charming, amusing, but revolting narrator. Hangman is a difficult book to read, not for those of delicate sensibilities; but I can’t say it isn’t orginal. Blake might stay with you for a long time. You should hope not.
The FBI gift shop keeps a small selection of mysteries and thrillers; I think I might suggest they include this one. I have also started suggesting it to agents. Heheheh.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is going to be very hard to rate. Hangman was very well written with a great plot. Although I found parts of it a bit weak.
But the characters, oh the characters; I had a terribly hard time warming up to the main character, young, twisted Timothy Blake (Scary Timmy) who was an FBI consultant due to his incredible eye for detail. For example he could be brought to a money drop in a large parking lot and from the cars and people walking around and extrapolate the criminal picking up the money. When Blake explains how, it makes perfect sense.
Scary Timmy is brought in on a kidnapping case. He doesn’t do well with it and is stymied at every turn. At the same time, his life which isn’t much to begin with, begins to fall apart.
The director of Houston’s FBI office, Peter Luhzin, found Blake’s talents invaluable for solving cases with the FBI. Each knows the other’s secret and so have each other’s backs; or more accurately, over the barrel. While working on the case, Blake finds someone from his past, who also shared the misery of the foster system.
Scary Timmy was one of the hardest characters I have ever read. Ever. And yet, when he faces great adversity, I wanted him to overcome it; and at the end I was happy to see new employment opportunities for Blake (I’m sniggering here) and the vague niggling thought of “I wonder if there will be another book”.
Blake makes a charming, amusing, but revolting narrator. Hangman is a difficult book to read, not for those of delicate sensibilities; but I can’t say it isn’t orginal. Blake might stay with you for a long time. You should hope not.
The FBI gift shop keeps a small selection of mysteries and thrillers; I think I might suggest they include this one. I have also started suggesting it to agents. Heheheh.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 9, 2019
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
Gather ‘round little weirdos, because boy oh boy do I have a book recommendation for you! In a season of meh 2 and 3 Star selections, Imma take you on the (sorta) wayback machine to a book I read and failed to review back on my berfday. Allow me to introduce you to a new favorite antihero – Timothy . . . .
Yes please. And not only does Timothy have a decidedly different palate, he also has an eidetic memory on a whole ‘notha level which makes him able to see things that are out of place. This bizarre “superpower” (for lack of a better term) has made Timothy allies with a most unlikely group – the FBI. Brought in as a last resort on their most time sensitive and impossible-to-solve cases, Timothy only requires one thing as payment . . . .
But, have no fear, our Timothy has morals much like another well-loved character . . . .
You see, he satisfies his cravings (with the aforementioned inside assistance) via Death Row inmates. They get executed – Timothy gets dinner. Win win situation right there.
And the backstory that explains what made Timothy the Timothy he is today???? Well, that is one that will have all you freaks going . . . .
This first selection in the series focuses on a missing child, an impending deadline for when the ransom is due and Timothy being partnered up with a blast from his past. Not only was this sucker different than anything else, it was also a whipsmart crime novel with a whodunit reveal that had me like . . . .
All the Stars.
Gather ‘round little weirdos, because boy oh boy do I have a book recommendation for you! In a season of meh 2 and 3 Star selections, Imma take you on the (sorta) wayback machine to a book I read and failed to review back on my berfday. Allow me to introduce you to a new favorite antihero – Timothy . . . .
Yes please. And not only does Timothy have a decidedly different palate, he also has an eidetic memory on a whole ‘notha level which makes him able to see things that are out of place. This bizarre “superpower” (for lack of a better term) has made Timothy allies with a most unlikely group – the FBI. Brought in as a last resort on their most time sensitive and impossible-to-solve cases, Timothy only requires one thing as payment . . . .
But, have no fear, our Timothy has morals much like another well-loved character . . . .
You see, he satisfies his cravings (with the aforementioned inside assistance) via Death Row inmates. They get executed – Timothy gets dinner. Win win situation right there.
And the backstory that explains what made Timothy the Timothy he is today???? Well, that is one that will have all you freaks going . . . .
This first selection in the series focuses on a missing child, an impending deadline for when the ransom is due and Timothy being partnered up with a blast from his past. Not only was this sucker different than anything else, it was also a whipsmart crime novel with a whodunit reveal that had me like . . . .
All the Stars.
July 30, 2018
“Oh, you haven’t heard that one? The government struck a bargain with a cannibal, and they use him to dispose of bodies after executions.”
When the FBI is having a hard time solving a case, they have someone they'll reach out to as a last resort. You may wonder why it has to be a last resort if it'd help solve the case in the first place - well, when the payment for help is a fresh body from death row to fulfill the civilian consultant's craving of human flesh, that might explain it.
Timothy Blake is a loner, civilian consultant who helps the FBI when they desperately need it. He is a master puzzle-solver who seems to always notice the details no one else does. He even makes a little extra cash by solving puzzles people send to him. Blake has an arrangement with the field office director of the FBI. He gets a call to help when a 14 year old boy goes missing on his way home from school and the mother receives a ransom call. The case isn't as open and shut as one might think.
I enjoyed the twists and turns this book took. It was definitely more on the original side of crime fiction. I can honestly say I had never read a book before about a cannibal solving crimes. It made for an interesting story. Some scenes got pretty gruesome, but that's to be expected when you're talking about eating humans and disposing of the remains. At times, Blake reminded me of Dexter. I can see how fans of the latter would enjoy this.
Children fear that monsters exist. Adults fear that they don’t - that the world is just a jigsaw of screwed-up people with good qualities as well as bad.
I love that there were riddles at the start of each chapter. My brain was reeling trying to figure out each answer, but I won't deny I had to go to Jack Heath's website for the rest of the majority of the answers. It was a nice touch that fits in well with Blake's knack for puzzles. I'm curious if there will be a sequel in the future.
September 24, 2021
THIS IS SO MESSED UP I LOVE IT.
Blake, aka Hangman, is a totally despicable character but he knows it and that made it okay for me to like him. It means pretty brilliant writing that an author can create a character this messed up and still have me rooting for him!
Blake's trying to help the FBI find a missing kid, but he has his own reasons for doing so, and those reasons are so disturbing and so of course that leads to a highly addictive thriller
I LOVED IT.
Every second.
Blake is disturbing, but he's super intelligent and exceptionally good at what he does. He's incredibly flawed, but because he knows it and kinda hates himself for it, I pitied him. He was such a fascinating character to read and it was such a unique take that I found it hard to put this one down.
The kidnapping case is curious, and I honestly wasn't able to predict much at all, which was such a blessing! Normally with police procedural-type books you can spot the perp a mile away. This one definitely kept me guessing.
There's plenty of action to keep you hooked, and there's the drama of Blake's personal life that rules every moment so when he's not out hunting on behalf of the FBI, he's got his own stuff going on. The junkie roommate was an interesting addition, too. All in all, never a dull moment.
There really are some horrible characters, so I kinda feel for Thistle, being the (black) knight among them. She's so badass and honest and pure and I'm sad she's surrounded by corrupt criminals. She's a great character, though. Less interesting for it, but I'm glad she was the ray of light in this dark, despicable tale.
The actual case of the missing boy was a bit strange, and I don't think it ever really came together for me in my mind. But I did really love the puzzles at the start of each chapter! I'm kinda bummed there was no solutions page at the back of the book haha. Now I'll have to Google the few that I couldn't get. (How'd everyone else go with the riddles, out of curiosity? Did you stop and have a think and try to solve them, or just move on?)
This is a really unique, fast-paced thriller with some fascinating characters written brilliantly. There are some moments that might make you a little squeamish, but overall I loved it and I'll be looking to get my hands on the next one ASAP.
Blake, you have earned my loyalty.
Blake, aka Hangman, is a totally despicable character but he knows it and that made it okay for me to like him. It means pretty brilliant writing that an author can create a character this messed up and still have me rooting for him!
Blake's trying to help the FBI find a missing kid, but he has his own reasons for doing so, and those reasons are so disturbing and so of course that leads to a highly addictive thriller
I LOVED IT.
Every second.
Blake is disturbing, but he's super intelligent and exceptionally good at what he does. He's incredibly flawed, but because he knows it and kinda hates himself for it, I pitied him. He was such a fascinating character to read and it was such a unique take that I found it hard to put this one down.
The kidnapping case is curious, and I honestly wasn't able to predict much at all, which was such a blessing! Normally with police procedural-type books you can spot the perp a mile away. This one definitely kept me guessing.
There's plenty of action to keep you hooked, and there's the drama of Blake's personal life that rules every moment so when he's not out hunting on behalf of the FBI, he's got his own stuff going on. The junkie roommate was an interesting addition, too. All in all, never a dull moment.
There really are some horrible characters, so I kinda feel for Thistle, being the (black) knight among them. She's so badass and honest and pure and I'm sad she's surrounded by corrupt criminals. She's a great character, though. Less interesting for it, but I'm glad she was the ray of light in this dark, despicable tale.
The actual case of the missing boy was a bit strange, and I don't think it ever really came together for me in my mind. But I did really love the puzzles at the start of each chapter! I'm kinda bummed there was no solutions page at the back of the book haha. Now I'll have to Google the few that I couldn't get. (How'd everyone else go with the riddles, out of curiosity? Did you stop and have a think and try to solve them, or just move on?)
This is a really unique, fast-paced thriller with some fascinating characters written brilliantly. There are some moments that might make you a little squeamish, but overall I loved it and I'll be looking to get my hands on the next one ASAP.
Blake, you have earned my loyalty.
July 7, 2018
I was really surprised that I enjoyed this book!
As the main character, Timothy Blake, tells his story, we learn about his childhood, upbringing, and lifestyle. He is not an agent, but he works with a certain FBI Field Office Director to find kidnapped children. He is rewarded if he is successful. He is unlike any character I’ve ever come across, and the author got me to like him!
After some initial reservations, I found this book to be an addictive read. The kidnap-for-ransom case Blake is involved in is weird and compelling. I really wasn’t sure what was going on when a second child was reported missing. In spite of Blake’s inner demon, I wanted him to succeed.
If you are reading this and other reviews to see if you’d like to pick up this book, you will know what you are facing. You may initially be repulsed by the main character in this book. I certainly was. But think about P. T. Barnum’s freak shows, oddities of nature, even tragic accidents and how mesmerizing they are to see. Think about Jeffrey Dahmer. Go ahead; it’s okay to read this book.
As the main character, Timothy Blake, tells his story, we learn about his childhood, upbringing, and lifestyle. He is not an agent, but he works with a certain FBI Field Office Director to find kidnapped children. He is rewarded if he is successful. He is unlike any character I’ve ever come across, and the author got me to like him!
After some initial reservations, I found this book to be an addictive read. The kidnap-for-ransom case Blake is involved in is weird and compelling. I really wasn’t sure what was going on when a second child was reported missing. In spite of Blake’s inner demon, I wanted him to succeed.
If you are reading this and other reviews to see if you’d like to pick up this book, you will know what you are facing. You may initially be repulsed by the main character in this book. I certainly was. But think about P. T. Barnum’s freak shows, oddities of nature, even tragic accidents and how mesmerizing they are to see. Think about Jeffrey Dahmer. Go ahead; it’s okay to read this book.
May 29, 2018
Wow! This was a unique novel that definitely isn't for the faint of heart. Not even a little bit... I'm warning you to read at your own risk haha.
Blake works for the FBI as a consultant and well... Blake is a cannibal. Yup... not sugar coating anything. Blake's parents were brutally murdered as child and he lived on the streets fighting for survival. He started to begin an odd habit of eating human flesh. Blake is brilliant at his gut instinct and reading right through people. He solves a definite difficult kidnapping case in this one.
There were many solid twists in this one and keeps you on your toes. I think I would categorize this one with more horror then mystery. I think what made this one strong was our main character Blake. He sure was a unique and different FBI consultant to say the least haha.
3.75 stars for this one.
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the advanced arc in exchange for my honest review.
Published to GR: 5/28/18
Publication date: 6/12/18
Blake works for the FBI as a consultant and well... Blake is a cannibal. Yup... not sugar coating anything. Blake's parents were brutally murdered as child and he lived on the streets fighting for survival. He started to begin an odd habit of eating human flesh. Blake is brilliant at his gut instinct and reading right through people. He solves a definite difficult kidnapping case in this one.
There were many solid twists in this one and keeps you on your toes. I think I would categorize this one with more horror then mystery. I think what made this one strong was our main character Blake. He sure was a unique and different FBI consultant to say the least haha.
3.75 stars for this one.
Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for the advanced arc in exchange for my honest review.
Published to GR: 5/28/18
Publication date: 6/12/18
September 18, 2022
Hmm. Timothy Blake was OK. He’s weird, a genius and a survivor. But, I can’t really say that I’m dying to read the second book of this series. I don’t like him THAT much, just barely enough to continue reading and find out how the whole thing would play out.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE STORY:
* I’ve always been fascinated by legal and police procedurals thrillers, I’d devour anything that’s related to crime investigations, examination of evidences and the manhunt for justice. So, I am really impressed by how the author was able to walk me through the whole process of seeing how the law works and how the criminals are being probed.
* The main character isn’t very hard to like. He’s carefree, he’s really smart (not really smart during some of the most important times) but I liked him nonetheless. Also, he’s quite hungry all the time but not in a way normal people usually are.
* The plot was OK, the scenes were clever and would really make you think. I loved the riddle in every start of the chapter because aside from trying to figure out who the bad guy is, I was also trying to solve the riddles. (I think I got only a couple of answers right.)
* I liked the twists and turns. Make you think that you caught the bad guy only to be mistaken and confused.
WHAT I DIDN’T PARTICULARY LIKE:
* I kind of wished that the main character wasn’t easily distracted by a woman. Haha. I hate when men act like that. You’re this very smart guy, textbook genius and a monster but after being swooned, you became out of control and diverted. Ugh, I didn’t want any romance or anything like that that’s why I picked up a crime thriller so that tiny bitty romance thingy thrown in here was very displeasing to me.
* I wanted more angst, more wit, more action. Also, I wanted the main character to be fit and more combative, like someone who wouldn’t be easily knocked down or beaten up. Maybe he’ll be tougher in the next book. We’ll see.
Overall. This was an OK read. I won’t be reading the next book anytime soon but I’ll surely give it a chance. Next year, perhaps.
WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE STORY:
* I’ve always been fascinated by legal and police procedurals thrillers, I’d devour anything that’s related to crime investigations, examination of evidences and the manhunt for justice. So, I am really impressed by how the author was able to walk me through the whole process of seeing how the law works and how the criminals are being probed.
* The main character isn’t very hard to like. He’s carefree, he’s really smart (not really smart during some of the most important times) but I liked him nonetheless. Also, he’s quite hungry all the time but not in a way normal people usually are.
* The plot was OK, the scenes were clever and would really make you think. I loved the riddle in every start of the chapter because aside from trying to figure out who the bad guy is, I was also trying to solve the riddles. (I think I got only a couple of answers right.)
* I liked the twists and turns. Make you think that you caught the bad guy only to be mistaken and confused.
WHAT I DIDN’T PARTICULARY LIKE:
* I kind of wished that the main character wasn’t easily distracted by a woman. Haha. I hate when men act like that. You’re this very smart guy, textbook genius and a monster but after being swooned, you became out of control and diverted. Ugh, I didn’t want any romance or anything like that that’s why I picked up a crime thriller so that tiny bitty romance thingy thrown in here was very displeasing to me.
* I wanted more angst, more wit, more action. Also, I wanted the main character to be fit and more combative, like someone who wouldn’t be easily knocked down or beaten up. Maybe he’ll be tougher in the next book. We’ll see.
Overall. This was an OK read. I won’t be reading the next book anytime soon but I’ll surely give it a chance. Next year, perhaps.
July 4, 2018
I have to say, Hangman was the 99th book I've read so far this year, and is right up there with some of my favorites of the year. It was dark, twisted, and I loved every second of it! I'm a huge fan of thrillers that have really macabre elements to them, and this was definitely fit the bill.
I don't want to give away much, because I think this book is best gone into pretty blind, but I want to say that I was so conflicted about my feelings about Blake! On one hand, he's a sociopath with a horrible secret, but yet, I couldn't help but find myself rooting for him!
Hangman was really smartly written. There were a lot of moving parts and clues that popped up as the case went on, and I was scrambling to put all of the pieces together, and honestly? I didn't figure it out, which I loved. Each chapter also started with a riddle, which I also enjoyed, since I think riddles are fun to solve! Some I'd heard before, but some were new to me. I thought riddles did a great job of tying in the theme of Blake being a puzzle-solver to the book.
I really enjoyed the ending of the book, and thought it was very fitting. I know that Hangman is a standalone book, but I'd love a sequel in the future to read more about Blake and what he's up to now! All in all, this was a 5 star read for me. I imagine this book won't be for everyone because of the secret our main character carries (I think it will turn some readers off), but if you're a fan of books with dark themes and flawed protagonists, you'll devour this one!
I don't want to give away much, because I think this book is best gone into pretty blind, but I want to say that I was so conflicted about my feelings about Blake! On one hand, he's a sociopath with a horrible secret, but yet, I couldn't help but find myself rooting for him!
Hangman was really smartly written. There were a lot of moving parts and clues that popped up as the case went on, and I was scrambling to put all of the pieces together, and honestly? I didn't figure it out, which I loved. Each chapter also started with a riddle, which I also enjoyed, since I think riddles are fun to solve! Some I'd heard before, but some were new to me. I thought riddles did a great job of tying in the theme of Blake being a puzzle-solver to the book.
I really enjoyed the ending of the book, and thought it was very fitting. I know that Hangman is a standalone book, but I'd love a sequel in the future to read more about Blake and what he's up to now! All in all, this was a 5 star read for me. I imagine this book won't be for everyone because of the secret our main character carries (I think it will turn some readers off), but if you're a fan of books with dark themes and flawed protagonists, you'll devour this one!
June 7, 2019
*3-3.5 stars
Jack Heath has learned how to 'dish up a repulsive character in an appealing way.' His character, Timothy Blake, is adept at solving puzzles so he's useful as an FBI consultant, called in to help with extremely perplexing kidnapping cases. His payment? His boss, Peter Luzhin, the director of Houston's Field Office, rewards him with the bodies of executed criminals. 'It's like playing hangman, but in reverse. When you solve the puzzle, you get the guy on the gallows.' Yes, you read that correctly--Timothy is a cannibal and needs to eat human flesh regularly.
This story is surprisingly light and humorous considering how whacked that premise is, but be forewarned, it does get quite gruesome at times. This series will not be for everyone but is certainly entertaining and original.
I knocked my star rating down a bit because I was able to guess the identity of the kidnapper/murderer almost immediately. It was the only scenario that made any sense. Too many years of reading mysteries perhaps??
Jack Heath has learned how to 'dish up a repulsive character in an appealing way.' His character, Timothy Blake, is adept at solving puzzles so he's useful as an FBI consultant, called in to help with extremely perplexing kidnapping cases. His payment? His boss, Peter Luzhin, the director of Houston's Field Office, rewards him with the bodies of executed criminals. 'It's like playing hangman, but in reverse. When you solve the puzzle, you get the guy on the gallows.' Yes, you read that correctly--Timothy is a cannibal and needs to eat human flesh regularly.
This story is surprisingly light and humorous considering how whacked that premise is, but be forewarned, it does get quite gruesome at times. This series will not be for everyone but is certainly entertaining and original.
I knocked my star rating down a bit because I was able to guess the identity of the kidnapper/murderer almost immediately. It was the only scenario that made any sense. Too many years of reading mysteries perhaps??
December 11, 2017
“Right now, the cops will be scraping my blood off the fence and my hair off the headrest in the car. Soon they’ll be searching databases for my DNA. I’ve been careful, so I’m hoping they won’t find any matches. But you can only eat so many people before someone notices. Maybe I left a trace somewhere. Maybe some cop has been hunting me for years, and this is his big break.”
Hangman is the first adult novel by award-winning Australian author, Jack Heath. Timothy Blake is a consultant for the FBI. He is often called in as a last resort for his uncanny observational skills, his ability to quickly draw almost Sherlock Holmes-like conclusions about suspects and witnesses and victims. But the limited-budget Houston Field Office of the FBI doesn’t pay him cash. Director Peter Luzhin has another arrangement, a rather unconventional (and highly covert) one with an employee at the Death House at Huntsville Prison whereby Timothy gets what he craves most: a fresh human to eat. Because Timothy Blake is a cannibal.
Because of those inclinations, Luzhin always sends Timothy out on investigations with a minder, and for his latest consult, it’s Special Agent Reese Thistle. The kidnapping of a fourteen-year-old schoolboy is a challenging case, but Reese is soon convinced that Timothy is an altruistic man whose motives are pure. But it turns out that Reese knows Timothy better than either of them realises.
Despite his eating habits, the reader may fairly quickly find it hard not to hope Timothy will succeed. He’s a high-school drop-out but intelligent, insightful and street smart. And he is no psychopath: he has an addiction and he feels shame and guilt about what he does. He even considers suicide: “I could end this right now. No more hunger. I’m smart enough to know that I’m criminally insane, so killing myself might save lives in the long run. And to do it without finishing the feast in front of me would prove that I still have some humanity left.”
This is a tale with knives and bullets and animal bites, kidneys surgically removed, bodies devoured, cars stolen, hijacks, and, yes, quite a bit of violence. But despite the title, no one actually gets hanged. Heath begins each chapter with a riddle, clues to which sometimes follow in the story. He drip-feeds the reader facts about Timothy’s early life to build the intrigue. Timothy’s inner monologue and his unsaid asides are often laugh-out-loud (if darkly) comical. The utterly perfect ending is achieved with some killer last lines.
Heath’s adult debut is a brilliant read. He gives the reader a plot that twists and turns so sharply, there may be a danger of whiplash injury. Red herrings and non-stop action keep the pages turning to a heart-stopping climax. Fans of Jeff Lindsay’s Dexter novels are likely to enjoy this, and if the reader can get past the protagonist’s perverted appetites, then they can feast on a truly clever and blackly funny tale. More, please!!
With thanks to GoodReads Giveaways and Allen&Unwin for this copy to read and review.
Hangman is the first adult novel by award-winning Australian author, Jack Heath. Timothy Blake is a consultant for the FBI. He is often called in as a last resort for his uncanny observational skills, his ability to quickly draw almost Sherlock Holmes-like conclusions about suspects and witnesses and victims. But the limited-budget Houston Field Office of the FBI doesn’t pay him cash. Director Peter Luzhin has another arrangement, a rather unconventional (and highly covert) one with an employee at the Death House at Huntsville Prison whereby Timothy gets what he craves most: a fresh human to eat. Because Timothy Blake is a cannibal.
Because of those inclinations, Luzhin always sends Timothy out on investigations with a minder, and for his latest consult, it’s Special Agent Reese Thistle. The kidnapping of a fourteen-year-old schoolboy is a challenging case, but Reese is soon convinced that Timothy is an altruistic man whose motives are pure. But it turns out that Reese knows Timothy better than either of them realises.
Despite his eating habits, the reader may fairly quickly find it hard not to hope Timothy will succeed. He’s a high-school drop-out but intelligent, insightful and street smart. And he is no psychopath: he has an addiction and he feels shame and guilt about what he does. He even considers suicide: “I could end this right now. No more hunger. I’m smart enough to know that I’m criminally insane, so killing myself might save lives in the long run. And to do it without finishing the feast in front of me would prove that I still have some humanity left.”
This is a tale with knives and bullets and animal bites, kidneys surgically removed, bodies devoured, cars stolen, hijacks, and, yes, quite a bit of violence. But despite the title, no one actually gets hanged. Heath begins each chapter with a riddle, clues to which sometimes follow in the story. He drip-feeds the reader facts about Timothy’s early life to build the intrigue. Timothy’s inner monologue and his unsaid asides are often laugh-out-loud (if darkly) comical. The utterly perfect ending is achieved with some killer last lines.
Heath’s adult debut is a brilliant read. He gives the reader a plot that twists and turns so sharply, there may be a danger of whiplash injury. Red herrings and non-stop action keep the pages turning to a heart-stopping climax. Fans of Jeff Lindsay’s Dexter novels are likely to enjoy this, and if the reader can get past the protagonist’s perverted appetites, then they can feast on a truly clever and blackly funny tale. More, please!!
With thanks to GoodReads Giveaways and Allen&Unwin for this copy to read and review.
June 14, 2018
Holy mother of all things twisted, gruesome, macabre, crazy and AWESOME. I haven't read a book this good in a while. Why is it so good? Well, it brings us a unique and sociopathic lead character that for all purposes you should hate but I LOVE. LOVE! I shouldn't, but I'm dark and twisted so I can't help myself.
All the surprises that the author brings - I didn't see a single damn thing. At the end of Chapter Four, the last line... I had to do a double take and then flip back to pages to see if what I read was really what I read. Then I smiled and settled in, knowing this is my type of read. I don't even care about whether or not it was even remotely realistic or not. WHO CARES with this one?! I even made a note about getting rid of bodies with acid in bath tubs - c'mon, Breaking Bad taught us this isn't a good idea. 🤣 Still, I was so engrossed with the story line, but mostly fascinated with one Mr. Timothy Blake. He makes the story, he IS the story and I want more of him. Hey Heath, you need to bring him back in another book please.. k, thanks!
I don't think this is going to be a book for everyone. However, if you like dark, twisted reads that have a dark comedic flair to it, this is absolutely for you. I highly recommend this and give it all the stars (and thumbs) in the world.
Thank you to Hanover Square Press for this delicious copy!
All the surprises that the author brings - I didn't see a single damn thing. At the end of Chapter Four, the last line... I had to do a double take and then flip back to pages to see if what I read was really what I read. Then I smiled and settled in, knowing this is my type of read. I don't even care about whether or not it was even remotely realistic or not. WHO CARES with this one?! I even made a note about getting rid of bodies with acid in bath tubs - c'mon, Breaking Bad taught us this isn't a good idea. 🤣 Still, I was so engrossed with the story line, but mostly fascinated with one Mr. Timothy Blake. He makes the story, he IS the story and I want more of him. Hey Heath, you need to bring him back in another book please.. k, thanks!
I don't think this is going to be a book for everyone. However, if you like dark, twisted reads that have a dark comedic flair to it, this is absolutely for you. I highly recommend this and give it all the stars (and thumbs) in the world.
Thank you to Hanover Square Press for this delicious copy!
September 9, 2018
Excellent! I think if I had known more about the story before I started reading this book, I probably wouldn’t have chosen it as I would have thought it sounded too far fetched and gory. I’m so glad I did read this because it WAS far fetched and gory but I loved it and want to read more! Is it wrong that I kind of fell for Timothy Blake, the FBI consultant who happens to be a cannibal? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2018
In order to enjoy this novel, the ability to suspend one's disbelief is highly recommended. Those who read my reviews know that I'm not particularly apt at that. While listening to this, I kept thinking "oh, this wouldn't happen, this is unlikely."
Other than that and the cannibalism, this wasn't too bad. I mean I finished it, so that's something.
I enjoyed the riddles at the beginning of the chapters - not that I tried to solve them. There were a few interesting information tidbits and the pace was pretty good, as you'd expect for this type of novel.
You can tell that Heath is Australian, or better said you can tell he's not Texan because he was focused on some of the not so savoury American realities - the expensive health care, the death sentence etc. Arguably, it was me who noticed those aspects of the novel.
So, after weighing up the plus and minus columns, I've come to grant this 3 stars.
This will go towards my Aussie Author Challenge 2018 on www.bookloverbookreviews.com .
Other than that and the cannibalism, this wasn't too bad. I mean I finished it, so that's something.
I enjoyed the riddles at the beginning of the chapters - not that I tried to solve them. There were a few interesting information tidbits and the pace was pretty good, as you'd expect for this type of novel.
You can tell that Heath is Australian, or better said you can tell he's not Texan because he was focused on some of the not so savoury American realities - the expensive health care, the death sentence etc. Arguably, it was me who noticed those aspects of the novel.
So, after weighing up the plus and minus columns, I've come to grant this 3 stars.
This will go towards my Aussie Author Challenge 2018 on www.bookloverbookreviews.com .
December 27, 2019
This book came right out of left field and totally knocked me flat on my ass, it’s just that DAMN good! It’s definitely not a read for the faint of heart, it gets pretty gruesome and dark and gory. But me being me, I absolutely adored and soaked up and devoured every page of it. It gave me serious Dexter vibes at some points but it was even better than that, it was Dexter on some intense crazy ass steroids! My favourite thing about this book is definitely our main character. He’s absolutely despicable and I hated him with every fibre of my being but I revelled in that hate and loved every single second of it. If you like them dark and twisted then this is the PERFECT book for you!
March 10, 2018
”It was him or me,” I said. “Don’t make it me or you.”
An enigma who solves puzzles for the challenge and pocket money. A loner who is a civilian consultant who helps the FBI solve crimes they’re unable to.
Timothy Blake is a bit of a savant who carries a very dark secret with him. From other reviews posted here on bookreads, I’m sure you’ve all worked out what this is.
So I won’t spell it out. Let me say that this book caught me completely unawares, it’s so far left of centre. When his “secret” is revealed, I did a double take. Did I really read that? I re-read the sentence. Pause. Ponder. Yes. I did read what I though I did. Ewwwwww.
Riveting reading. I can’t say that I felt an understanding of Timothy Blake, but I did feel an nth of pity for him. Being brought up by the state, and never knowing his parents who died under awful circumstances, quite possibly has some bearing on his personality and compulsions.
”For a fraction of a second, I catch a glimpse of what I really am - a monster.”
This is not the type of story that I would normally read, but sometimes it’s good to push the envelope. I’m intrigued to see how Timothy Blake’s story pans out, and will definitely read the next book.
As the Author Jack Heath himself says ”…this guy’s a mess.”
Many thanks to Goodreads & the publishers Allen & Unwin (Australia) for providing me with an advance copy to read, in exchange for an honest review.
An enigma who solves puzzles for the challenge and pocket money. A loner who is a civilian consultant who helps the FBI solve crimes they’re unable to.
Timothy Blake is a bit of a savant who carries a very dark secret with him. From other reviews posted here on bookreads, I’m sure you’ve all worked out what this is.
So I won’t spell it out. Let me say that this book caught me completely unawares, it’s so far left of centre. When his “secret” is revealed, I did a double take. Did I really read that? I re-read the sentence. Pause. Ponder. Yes. I did read what I though I did. Ewwwwww.
Riveting reading. I can’t say that I felt an understanding of Timothy Blake, but I did feel an nth of pity for him. Being brought up by the state, and never knowing his parents who died under awful circumstances, quite possibly has some bearing on his personality and compulsions.
”For a fraction of a second, I catch a glimpse of what I really am - a monster.”
This is not the type of story that I would normally read, but sometimes it’s good to push the envelope. I’m intrigued to see how Timothy Blake’s story pans out, and will definitely read the next book.
As the Author Jack Heath himself says ”…this guy’s a mess.”
Many thanks to Goodreads & the publishers Allen & Unwin (Australia) for providing me with an advance copy to read, in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2019
When the Houston field office of the FBI struggles to solve a case, Director Luzhin calls in civilian consultant Timothy Blake. The kidnapping of 14yo Cameron Hall is one such case because there is a clock they need to beat, and every second counts. Blake has a good track record with this kind of thing; his side-hustle is solving puzzles - riddles, Rubik’s cubes, impossible puzzles - for enough cash to keep him off the streets. Because the thing is, there’s no money in the consultancy gig. Blake and Luzhin share a terrible secret that neither can afford the other to reveal, and it’s to do with how Blake is compensated for his work...
Wow! What a perverted, nauseating but fun ride this was! Honestly, I felt a bit queasy the whole time I was reading it, but still I couldn’t put it down. Blake is repulsive but clever and strangely likeable, the plot is twisty and turny and compelling, the resolution came as quite a surprise for me. All in all, what else could I ask for in a fresh, new thriller series? Looking forward to reading the follow-up very soon.
Recommended, but with CAUTION for its disturbing themes.
Wow! What a perverted, nauseating but fun ride this was! Honestly, I felt a bit queasy the whole time I was reading it, but still I couldn’t put it down. Blake is repulsive but clever and strangely likeable, the plot is twisty and turny and compelling, the resolution came as quite a surprise for me. All in all, what else could I ask for in a fresh, new thriller series? Looking forward to reading the follow-up very soon.
Recommended, but with CAUTION for its disturbing themes.
July 19, 2018
Thank you so much to Hanover Square Press and Harlequin Books for providing my free copy of HANGMAN by Jack Heath - all opinions are my own.
So this is different. I’m not exactly sure where to start but think Dexter, meets Sherlock Holmes, meets Hannibal Lecter. Intrigued? There is a depth of depravity to this thriller that I LOVE. It’s grisly, vile, menacing, horrendous in nature, and insanely CLEVER.
When called upon, Timothy Blake assists the FBI on crucial and difficult cases. He’s not an agent himself, just a citizen with a nasty habit. The FBI takes care of ‘his needs’ in exchange for his genius mind and impeccable problem solving skills. There are a string of kidnappings and the FBI needs Blake on this one. And he’s not only a genius, he’s a lovable sociopath. That’s right, I said it...lovable. The case is not predictable as there are so many moving parts that appear throughout, mixed with puzzles and clues. I love the riddles at the head of each chapter, which just adds to the originality of this brilliant novel. I had no idea what would happen until the reveal which just warms my black heart.
HANGMAN is a quickly paced, taut thriller that I recommend to anyone who enjoys all things dark, disturbing, twisted, and wicked with an unseemly flawed but amiable character.
So this is different. I’m not exactly sure where to start but think Dexter, meets Sherlock Holmes, meets Hannibal Lecter. Intrigued? There is a depth of depravity to this thriller that I LOVE. It’s grisly, vile, menacing, horrendous in nature, and insanely CLEVER.
When called upon, Timothy Blake assists the FBI on crucial and difficult cases. He’s not an agent himself, just a citizen with a nasty habit. The FBI takes care of ‘his needs’ in exchange for his genius mind and impeccable problem solving skills. There are a string of kidnappings and the FBI needs Blake on this one. And he’s not only a genius, he’s a lovable sociopath. That’s right, I said it...lovable. The case is not predictable as there are so many moving parts that appear throughout, mixed with puzzles and clues. I love the riddles at the head of each chapter, which just adds to the originality of this brilliant novel. I had no idea what would happen until the reveal which just warms my black heart.
HANGMAN is a quickly paced, taut thriller that I recommend to anyone who enjoys all things dark, disturbing, twisted, and wicked with an unseemly flawed but amiable character.
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