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Club 27

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DCI Judd Stone is heading for rock bottom. He breaks the rules, he gambles and he’s begun to play around.
An unlikely lifeline is thrown Judd’s way when he finds himself catapulted into trying to prevent Rock and Pop sensation Phoenix from becoming the next member of the infamous 27 club – the name given to the list of iconic musicians who die at the age of 27.
Judd’s quest is not made easier when Phoenix’s lifestyle is even more self-destructive than his own - but how can Judd possibly protect someone from themselves?
And who else could be conspiring to benefit from Phoenix’s death? A crazed fan? Birmingham’s ruthless Gangsters? A Secret Society? Or maybe even those who Phoenix believes to be closest to her?
And when Phoenix embarks on an unprecedented tour performing at some of the most wondrous places of the world, the stakes to protect her become even higher.
This sensational follow up to the award-winning Mind Guerrilla will have you rooting for the irrepressible Judd Stone all over again.

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2018

2 people are currently reading
10 people want to read

About the author

Martin Tracey

33 books34 followers
Martin Tracey is inspired primarily by three things - music, football(soccer) and the supernatural. All three elements feature in his writing, although he does not necessarily consider that his writing is genre specific.

"I'm wired with a very vivid imagination and therefore my novels have many layers to them. I approach my writing with a skeleton of a plan but my writing takes me on various journeys and the story grows organically which makes for a more interesting read I feel. However, if I were to have a gun pointing at my head demanding that I commit to a genre I guess I would have to state horror or supernatural."

A proud native of Birmingham UK, Martin tends to set his books in and around his home city or other English settings. His working-class upbringing is reflected in the edginess and honesty of his writing and his novels have a sense of realism. He is also a big admirer of Quentin Tarantino so coupled with his realistic approach Martin's novels probably shouldn't be read by those who are easily shocked or offended.

Before producing novels Martin's literary output was writing songs. "Raging Bull" a song penned and co-performed by Martin can be found on "Old Gold Anthems - the Songs of Wolverhampton Wanderers".

Another highlight of Martin's musical career was supporting Roland Gift and the Fine Young Cannibals at Birmingham's Alexander Theatre.

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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for C.J. Laurence.
Author 29 books43 followers
August 18, 2018
Well written.

Fabulously written. A real intriguing insight into a well known conspiracy theory with twists of numerology thrown in too. You may end up with a few more questions about real life happenings by the end of the book!
Profile Image for Amanda.
2,026 reviews56 followers
August 22, 2021
I read and loved ‘Mind Guerillas’, which is the first book in the series featuring former Detective Chief Inspector Judd Stone. When I heard that there was a second book in the series, I knew that I had to read it as soon as I could. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Club 27’ but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about former Detective Chief Inspector Judd Stone? I found it impossible to dislike him even if he did scare the doo doo out of me. Underneath his hard nut exterior, he does have a heart. He isn’t exactly a soft touch but he does have his humane side and this appears every once in a while. Judd is one of those people, who doesn’t scare easily and he isn’t afraid to stand up to bullies. Every so often, Stone does go over the top and uses extreme violence.
It didn’t take me long to get into ‘Club 27’. In fact by the time I got to the end of the first few pages, I knew that I was in for a treat and that I would find it extremely difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was spot on in both cases. I was drawn into the story from the very start and I just couldn’t stop reading. I had to find out how the story was going to pan out. The pages turned over so quickly that it was almost as if they were turning themselves and the page numbers became a blur. I found ‘Club 27’ to be a gripping read, which kept me on my toes and which kept me on the edge of my seat throughout.
‘Club 27’ is extremely well written. Martin certainly knows how to grab your attention and draw you into what proves to be a compelling read. Martin’s writing style is very easy to get used to and to get along with. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a fairly fast pace throughout. Reading ‘Club 27’ was much like being on a scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. Certain descriptions of the violence did made me wince a bit.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Club 27’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Martin’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
Profile Image for Chelle W (teaandplottwists).
452 reviews18 followers
August 31, 2021
Judd Stone has nearly hit rock bottom after making some terrible decisions which see him lose his job and end up working for a gangster. But when one of his ex-colleagues speaks to him about looking into Club 27, his PI business begins, and before he knows it he’s protecting one of the world’s best loved pop stars. But with her 27th birthday looming and her being the next potential victim of Club 27, can Stone save her? Will he find who is out to get her? Or is Phoenix the threat to herself? Or is it all part of big conspiracy?

This was an intriguing mystery surrounded by a real life conspiracy theory. Club 27 is an infamous club, the age at which many famous musicians have died, and it was interesting to see a story written around this. I love a good conspiracy theory and it wound nicely in with the story. Also, if you’re a big music fan you’ll be sure to love all the musical references. There was also some aspects of the supernatural including telekinesis, fortune telling and numerology which I really enjoyed.

Judd Stone is a fantastic character. A bit of a bad boy, yet gentle and sweet too; he’s made some massive mistakes in his time but regretted them. If you’re on his good side he will do anything for his friends; if you’re on his bad side, well – you’d better watch out!! I couldn’t help but love him even with the things he got up to! There are some other fantastic supporting characters in this too, as he has some amazing, interesting and talented friends. Seeing how Phoenix’s life spanned out was really sad to see, and sadly also too true for many young stars.

The setting is mainly Birmingham and Las Vegas which are worlds apart but add some special bits to the story. I did feel that some of the chapters felt a bit disjointed, and at times some things were repeated numerous times which I didn’t feel was necessary. However, overall I really did enjoy this and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

So if you love a mystery with a fantastic protagonist then you will enjoy this. If you’re also a big music fan or love a touch of the supernatural then this could be for you too!
Profile Image for Sharon Rimmelzwaan.
1,464 reviews44 followers
October 6, 2021
Club 27 by Martin Tracey is the second book in the Judd Stone series which began with Mind Guerilla, so I was just hoping this book could be as good.
DCI Judd Stone is heading for rock bottom. He breaks the rules, he gambles and he’s begun to play around.
An unlikely lifeline is thrown Judd’s way when he finds himself catapulted into trying to prevent Rock and Pop sensation Phoenix from becoming the next member of the infamous 27 club – the name given to the list of iconic musicians who die at the age of 27. Judd’s quest is not made easier when Phoenix’s lifestyle is even more self-destructive than his own - but how can Judd possibly protect someone from themselves? And who else could be conspiring to benefit from Phoenix’s death? A crazed fan? Birmingham’s ruthless Gangsters? A Secret Society? Or maybe even those who Phoenix believes to be closest to her? And when Phoenix embarks on an unprecedented tour performing at some of the most wondrous places of the world, the stakes to protect her become even higher.
A book that could possibly be read on it's own, but I would say start with Mind Guerilla it is a belter and you do get to know Judd Stone, a little anyway. A character who is rather complex and he never makes things any easier for himself. Phoenix is a character that seems to be as determined as Judd is, with self-destruction. Time will tell if Judd can keep her safe.
This story is a brilliant blend of fact and fiction, of which Martin Tracey is expert in. Well paced as the first one with twists and turns that kept me hanging on to every word.
Another fabulous book that left me thinking that Judd Stone may be reappearing sometime in the future again, I am looking forward to it!
Thanks to Zoe of ZooLoo's Book Tours and Martin Tracey for the gifted copy of the book.
Profile Image for Amy.
388 reviews29 followers
August 25, 2021
3.5⭐

A huge thank you to @zooloo and @martin for my #gifted copy of this book for my tour spot.


▪︎MY THOUGHTS▪︎
This is a very interesting story. The plot felt so original and unique and it's extremely fast paced and quick to the punch.
DCI Judd Stone is not your typical policeman, he gambles, drinks and pretty much seems like a reckless man. It took me a while to warm to him I won't lie, but I think because this is a second book to the Stone series and I've not read the first that could be why.
I absolutely loved the Club 27 aspect with it being reference to the pop culture with the surprising amount of stars that died at the age of 27. I really like Phoenix and I really bonded with her character. She is a very intelligent popstar (which I love that she's made out as very smart rather than a dumb money grabber like some portray stars.) I really liked her story in regards to how her name came and her birth. Phoenix to me had a lot of depth in her character and you can't help but like her and want what's best for her.

I really liked how this book was sort of conspiracy theory and also a mystery too. I liked the twist and turns this book had and it certainly is a book that keeps you guessing.

Martin's writing is extremely easy to read and it's very entertaining and funny as well. Certainly an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Rakhi (New Book Reviewer).
634 reviews34 followers
July 23, 2024

Have you ever found yourself hooked on a book that you believe it actually might be true?

If you haven’t yet, then Club 27 book two in the Judd Stone Series by Martin Tracey, might just be your next obsession. This book grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go until the very end.

Judd Stone with an unexpected mission comes his way: protect Phoenix, a rising rock and pop star, from joining the infamous 27 Club a tragic list of musicians who died at the age of 27. This premise alone is fascinating, but what makes this book truly special is its compelling narrative and unique style.

The writing style of the author is both captivating and immersive. The auth has a knack for creating characters that feel real and relatable, and the hint of the supernatural adds an intriguing twist to the storyline.

I found myself deeply invested in Judd’s journey and the challenges he faces, both personal and professional. The interplay between Judd’s self-destructive tendencies and Phoenix’s dangerous lifestyle creates a gripping tension that keeps you turning the pages.

What I loved most about this book is its ability to blend a thrilling detective story with emotional depth. The narrative pulls you in, making you care about the characters and their fates. The book's unique style, combined with its engaging plot, makes it a must-read.

Overall, a well-crafted and compelling read.
Profile Image for Sophie Narey (Bookreview- aholic) .
1,062 reviews128 followers
August 17, 2021
This book is in the Judd Stone series and it is brilliantly written . It is the type of book that when you start reading it , it wakes your brain up , gets all the cogs turning in your kind, which I'd something I love about this book it shows how well written it is when your brain is kept awake by in , absorbing everything happening and all the characters in the book.

DCI Judd Stone is a character that I absolutely loved reading about , definitely not like any other DCI character I have read about before ! He gambles , he breaks the rules , a brilliant character to get to know through the book . He is thrown in to help make sure the rising star Phoenix doesn't end up in club 27 (which lots of people will know is the name given to the famous musicians who sadly all lost their life at 27) .

I loved reading about all the characters and going through the journey of keeping Phoenix alive , which was certainly entertaining ! A brilliantly written book , keeps you hooked on it until the very end . I can't wait to read more by this wonderful author !
350 reviews16 followers
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August 24, 2021
Martin Tracey has done it again, returning once again with the fabulous Judd Stone in Club 27.
After being sacked from his job as DCI and losing the love of his life, Judd’s own life is rapidly sinking until a series of events leads to his employment as bodyguard to the talented but troubled singing sensation, Phoenix.
But when signs point to her becoming the next member of the 27 Club, how can Judd save her when her life seems on a course for destruction. And who would benefit from her death?
Yet again Martin Tracey has written a fantastic, truly page turning story. Judd is a flawed character but he’s the kind of man I would want with me if I was ever in trouble. With Club 27 I was drawn completely into the story and although I’d already heard of this Club in reality, it did make me think more about the unfortunate members of this club. I also really enjoyed the explanation of numerology and I found my self nodding as I began to understand the reasoning behind it.
This has to be a 5* read from me and I can’t wait to meet Judd Stone again.
3 reviews
August 25, 2018
Another gripping read from this fantastic author. It leaves you wanting to know what happens next. It was only a matter of time before Judd’s impulsive and addictive personality would get him into trouble. Thrusting and forcing him to his biggest low. A twist of events or was it fate that played its hand in Judd’s involvement and the unraveling story of Phoenix. Who can be trusted, can Judd keep phoenix safe or is her lifestyle choice just doomed. Is there a new member of the club, you’ll have to read to find out. You won’t want to put this book down. The story has a number of layers of where it takes you too and a few surprises a long the way. There are some old friends of Judd in the book that takes you on a unexpected journey. If you like a mixture of thriller, suspense and the supernatural then this is a must read. I highly recommend this book for all readers. Let your imagination and love for reading take you along for the ride.
Profile Image for Alana.
152 reviews
May 13, 2020
A new author to me who I met at a signing in Sheffield. Wasnt sure what to expect really although talking to Martin this book seemed intriguing.

Pretty much from the beginning I enjoyed this book, something a bit different which is difficult these days and I really enjoyed learning more about the 27 Club and the characters are likeable/hateable as should be!

I did find the repeating of the reasons behind why Judd felt so compelled and guilty to help Phoenix a bit annoying as I think it is stated 4 or 5 different times through the book which was unnecessary as easily remembered from the first mention. Also the last few chapters felt a little disconnected, certainly the random one on Ocran, which could have been left out really as didnt add anything to the story.

Thoroughly enjoyed it though and will be going back to read Mind Guerrilla which is the first in the Judd Stone series although this can be read as a standalone.
Profile Image for Donna Morfett.
Author 6 books71 followers
August 22, 2021
My review
Judd Stone is paying the price for losing his temper and beating up a PI. He's lost his job and served time. Desperate for work, he becomes a debt collector for a local crime boss. After meeting a young man who borrowed money to help his terminally ill nana, Judy decides its time to leave that life.
A surprise visit from his old boss and a fantastical story about the 27 club leads Judd on a path he couldn't expect.
This is a mad story, with a bit of everything chucked in. Chance encounters all link up in the end. A link to some supernatural, some conspiracy theories, interesting ideas of numbers and their importance and umbrella man.
It was an easy read, and a very enjoyable one. At the centre is Phoenix Easter, a beautiful, talented young woman on a path to self destruct. Still as appropriate today as it ever has been. Mention of Any Winehouse and Chester Bennington make you realise this isn't some old conspiracy theory, but something still very much alive.
Profile Image for Deb.
722 reviews22 followers
August 17, 2021
This is the second in the Judd Stone series after the epic Mind Guerrilla.
Another mixture of a book from Mr Tracey - smatterings of humour, lots of musical references, plenty of facts & a huge amount of conjecture.
You don’t have to have read the first book but I think it might help. Judd is a complex character, as are his colleagues, who doesn’t really help himself & this is one of those cases.
He finds himself trying to prevent Phoenix becoming another member of the notorious 27 Club or does he?
I’m not really sure how else to review this book. There’s suspense, thrills & a touch of the supernatural.
I recommend you read it for yourself.
Profile Image for Claire Birkin.
138 reviews
July 28, 2021
Enjoyable read from Martin Tracey. Great story with lots of interesting music information and an entertaining case of characters. Judd Stone has a change of job role looking after the young singer who seems hellbent on joining the infamous lot in Club 27. Her lifestyle choices and some of the characters around her all give him cause to worry. Will Judd manage to keep her safe and protect her from what seems to be inevitable....... you will have to read it and find out for yourself.
Profile Image for julie young.
481 reviews16 followers
February 22, 2022
A disgraced ex policeman, turned investigator/ bodyguard. A conspiracy theory from real life and a bright, young rock star in danger of joining the infamous '27 club'. I wasn't sure when I started reading, it seemed a little far fetched, but I'm glad I persevered because this is a very entertaining,intriguing, thoroughly enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Pamela.
625 reviews29 followers
March 13, 2022
This is a second book about Judd Stone. I quite like him. I really think he's an interesting character.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, and found it gripping and a page turner. This can be read as a stand alone, but in the near future I am going to read the first one.
Many thanks to TBC for allowing me to review the book , and also for the authors great writing.
He has a new fan of his books 🙂
324 reviews7 followers
October 14, 2020
Fabulous book!

Another great story following the investigation by Judd Stone with again a fanstistic merge of fact and fiction, leaving me guessing which was which.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Sue Wallace .
7,459 reviews142 followers
August 31, 2021
Club 27 by Martin Tracey.
Book 2 of Judd Stone series.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked Judd. Didn't trust Ocran at all. I liked Phoenix and Neima. I'm looking forward to the next book. 5*.
Profile Image for Beccy Thompson.
810 reviews17 followers
March 17, 2022
A skilfully written novel that bears more than a passing resemblance to a real life tragedy.
Well written with an engaging storyline that hooked me in
A great read!
Profile Image for Jess.
64 reviews1 follower
December 24, 2025
A great book set in Birmingham about the 27 club, I was lucky to get a paperback from Martin signed at a book festival!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews