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Death Before Coffee: Book Two in the Mike O'Shea Crime Fiction Series
By 2:27 on a Thursday afternoon, the one-legged man from Room 8 at 147 Loxitor Avenue has been beaten to death with a lead pipe. Twenty-eight minutes later, Detective Mike O’Shea is testifying in a stuffy courtroom, unaware that, within an hour, he will be standing in an alleyway littered with beer cans and condoms while his new partner—the man who saved his life thirteen years ago—flicks bugs off of a battered corpse with a ballpoint pen. When a rogue undercover copper prematurely hauls in the prime suspect, Mike blows a fuse, resulting in an unlikely rapport developing between him and the lead homicide detective sergeant, a woman known for her stilettos and razor sharp investigative skills. At the end of his seventy-two-hour shift, three men are dead and Mike O’Shea is floating in and out of consciousness in an emergency room hallway, two women by his side. Death Before Coffee, the second book in the Mike O’Shea Crime Fiction Series, weaves a homicide investigation through the life of an inner-city police detective intent on balancing his responsibilities as a son, brother, and newly single father with his sworn oath of duty. When faced with death, Mike is forced to make decisions that stir up old memories, compelling him to confront his demons while fighting the good fight.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2019
2 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Desmond P. Ryan
11 books14 followersDesmond P. Ryan's transition from a Toronto Police detective to a crime fiction author is clearly reflected in the rich authenticity of his novels. In The Mike O'Shea Series, he channels the gritty realism reminiscent of Joseph Wambaugh, immersing readers in the harsh realities of law enforcement. Through vivid descriptions and compelling characters, Desmond captures the raw essence of the streets and the daunting challenges faced by those who patrol them, drawing from his own experiences to lend credibility to his narratives.
Similarly, in his A Pint of Trouble books, Desmond channels the humor and wit akin to Richard Osmon’s Thursday Murder Club series, introducing readers to a mildly Machiavellian protagonist and her unlikely sidekick both navigating the world of amateur sleuthing with charm and ingenuity. His background in law enforcement allows him to infuse the stories with authentic details and a deep understanding of human nature, enhancing the believability of his characters and their interactions.
Having spent years patrolling the diverse neighbourhood of Toronto, Desmond’s writing is imbued with firsthand knowledge and experiences, lending an unparalleled level of credibility to his portrayals of crime and justice. Living in Cabbagetown, a Toronto neighbourhood with its own character and history, adds another layer of authenticity to Desmond’s writing. His intimate knowledge of people and the places they inhabit enriches his storytelling, providing readers with a vivid backdrop against which his characters come to life.
Overall, Desmond P. Ryan's gripping tales of crime, justice, and the human condition resonate with readers because of his unique perspective, distinctive style, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.
Similarly, in his A Pint of Trouble books, Desmond channels the humor and wit akin to Richard Osmon’s Thursday Murder Club series, introducing readers to a mildly Machiavellian protagonist and her unlikely sidekick both navigating the world of amateur sleuthing with charm and ingenuity. His background in law enforcement allows him to infuse the stories with authentic details and a deep understanding of human nature, enhancing the believability of his characters and their interactions.
Having spent years patrolling the diverse neighbourhood of Toronto, Desmond’s writing is imbued with firsthand knowledge and experiences, lending an unparalleled level of credibility to his portrayals of crime and justice. Living in Cabbagetown, a Toronto neighbourhood with its own character and history, adds another layer of authenticity to Desmond’s writing. His intimate knowledge of people and the places they inhabit enriches his storytelling, providing readers with a vivid backdrop against which his characters come to life.
Overall, Desmond P. Ryan's gripping tales of crime, justice, and the human condition resonate with readers because of his unique perspective, distinctive style, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 13, 2019
This book is like a cup of coffee... dark, strong, and caffeinated. This is the second book in the Michael O’Shea series, and I think I might have missed a little having not read the first book. From what I gather this book takes up 13 years after the previous book and now Mike is no longer working on juvenile cases. This book was very real and raw. Very reminiscent of some of the better police programs on TV such as NYPD Blue or my beloved Law and Order. Also I’m not quite sure I’ve ever seen the murder weapon being a lead pipe other than in the board game Clue. I’m kind of rambling, but I really don’t know if I should say much about the plot, I think it might spoil it?
Mike is an old school detective, a bit grumpy with some strong family ties. I really love his large Irish family, especially mom! The mystery was very intriguing although quite dark. In fact the entire book had a bit of a bleak and gloomy air about it. Although I think this just added to the overall tone of the story, definitely didn’t take anything from it.
An extremely well done crime thriller that will leave you wanting more!
*** Big thanks to the author for my copy of this book ***
Mike is an old school detective, a bit grumpy with some strong family ties. I really love his large Irish family, especially mom! The mystery was very intriguing although quite dark. In fact the entire book had a bit of a bleak and gloomy air about it. Although I think this just added to the overall tone of the story, definitely didn’t take anything from it.
An extremely well done crime thriller that will leave you wanting more!
*** Big thanks to the author for my copy of this book ***
February 12, 2019
This is the second book in the Mike O’Shea crime series. Even though the author gives plenty of background from the first novel in the series, I would still highly recommend reading it before this one if you can.
The author has packed loads into this novel and it all works really well. I loved getting to see more of Mike’s personal life, especially his mother and the big family dinners. A strong solid Irish family and I so wanted to be part of it. It did bring a bit of much needed humour in what is otherwise a dark read.
At times this does make for a sombre read. I can’t say to much as you really need to read it yourself to see exactly what I mean. Whilst it may be sombre in places, it still makes for a compelling, page turner of a read.
Death Before Coffee is a great follow on from the first book in the series. I loved getting to know Mike better. His new partner Ron, whilst not a patch on his previous one, still had me enjoying seeing the working relationship grow between both men. A thrilling, yet at times heart felt story, that has you really routing for the good guys.
My thanks to Shell Baker at Baker’s Blog Tours & Promo for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The author has packed loads into this novel and it all works really well. I loved getting to see more of Mike’s personal life, especially his mother and the big family dinners. A strong solid Irish family and I so wanted to be part of it. It did bring a bit of much needed humour in what is otherwise a dark read.
At times this does make for a sombre read. I can’t say to much as you really need to read it yourself to see exactly what I mean. Whilst it may be sombre in places, it still makes for a compelling, page turner of a read.
Death Before Coffee is a great follow on from the first book in the series. I loved getting to know Mike better. His new partner Ron, whilst not a patch on his previous one, still had me enjoying seeing the working relationship grow between both men. A thrilling, yet at times heart felt story, that has you really routing for the good guys.
My thanks to Shell Baker at Baker’s Blog Tours & Promo for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
August 10, 2019
Nailed it!! That’s what I think of the latest instalment of Mike O’Shea! When reading this I failed to notice at the date and didn’t realise there was a time jump from the first book!so 13 years later O’Shea is not in juvenile protection anymore he’s is now a district investigator in the 6th district.
What I like, no wait adore… no LOVE about this book is the wealth of experience that Mr Ryan has displayed from his background. This makes the book so enjoyable knowing that these things add to making the story a bit more believable.
I love Mike, so when we first meet with him years later I was surprised to how much of a shell he was, reliving every day Sals’ murder wondering what could he have done differently. A huge part of me though was glad that he was partnered up with Ron, who appeared in the first book, as the banter they had was enjoyable. It was a strength he needed. Plus his mother’s family dinner is always interesting to watch as a bystander!
Again, in Death before Coffee, we are only lucky to be in Mike’s world for a couple of days like in the previous book, and it is a darker affair. A crumbling marriage, a lack of ability to cope, a murder to solve and a past that still haunts him, these are just tidbits from this fascinating book.
I have to mention the cover because it’s perfect, and it’s a reminder of Sal with the pumpkin seeds, still not sure I will ever be over it! I have read The Funeral (review to come) and again the wealth of knowledge shines through.
I can never tire of Mr Ryan writing (good thing more books are on the way) because he draws you in and doesn’t want to let go. If I could have I would have read this in one sitting because I was worried about everyone when I shut the book. I was still thinking about everyone!
I have to say one thing when I saw the words Family Jewels in the book, I had to chuckle because that was a little bit of my input into the book after the most random and funny conversation I had with Mr Ryan on twitter!
I can not wait for the next adventure!!!
April 10, 2019
My biggest thanks to the fantastic Emma @ damppebblesblogtour for giving me the opportunity to discover this author and book. I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour.
Have you come across such a strong ending that you screamed ‘Nooooooo!’ when the word End appears? I did when I finished Death Before Coffee. Then I almost called Mr Desmond P. Ryan bird names but realized that without his sadistic ways, I would not have been high on adrenaline for the last hours. I don’t lose it often when I read, so mark the date! (ps: I really like you and your books, Mr Ryan!!!)
Let’s rewind so you can understand why I ended up in such a state…
Death Before Coffee. For all the crime fiction I read, no other sentence has ever rung so true to the police calling. Coffee is always involved. I remember watching hours of TV shows where I could see patrol officers, detectives, and even big bosses, abandon their hot cup of beverage with the rapidity requited by the code called at that moment. While reading this book, I was reminded of the show New York 911. Yes, I know, Mike O’Shea is in Toronto, but I’ve always been terrible with geography. And no matter where you are, coffee and cops go hand in hand like the wind and a kite! Anyway! More on why I MUST compare Death Before Coffee to a show I was addicted to. Remember the author I almost insulted? Well, he is seasoned and skilled enough to write it as it is. No super-fast results, no Superman. Only people putting their lives on the line to make the streets safer… Or to appear in court to make sure bad guys get behind bars before going back out to collect the latest dead body left in an alley. Police work is no walk on sunshine, we all know it, but the dose of authenticity (and the number of ‘fuck’s) in this novel gives every event twice as much impact. It felt real, it appeared in front of my eye. I could smell the coffee (it again. Seriously, it’s a character in this book!), I could see the blood, I could wrinkle my nose at the scent of sweat and testosterone in the precinct. Like a true crime fiction, Death Before Coffee doesn’t ban the punches, the awkward situations, the messing up. You’re in the street, you are not safe, and you don’t count your hours. I read a lot of crime fiction and I love it when I can jump in the pages and lose myself in an investigation. But this time, it was different.
It was made different by the weight of the past, by the routine of days of battle between bad and terrible, by the interactions between the characters. This latter point made everything better. Mike gets to partner up with a name from the past. I loved the hints of background between him and Ron. I loved the tension of their beginning, the development of their new relationship, and Ron’s famous words… You don’t get to choose who you work with, so you make do, and sometimes, just sometimes, it brings the best and the worst in you. Desmond Ryan has created truly relatable characters, men and women, to bring life to his book in the best way possible.
Death by lead pipe. Violent start of a long shift. Right from the start, the detectives get on board, and I couldn’t help but smile at the ranks, and obviously, at the rookies’ mistakes. I visualized young guys facing their first crime scene. Would you remember to secure the area, to take the witnesses to the side and never out of sight? Would you get it all perfectly? No. Neither would I. I loved the passing of knowledge, the lessons learned, and the idea that the big police family passes the torch from one hand to the other, leaving a trail of fire and death in the way. You can see that the author has brought his own personal experience for the ride, as this book is one of the best, and darkest! I have read!
Now the big deal: Mike O’Shea. Mystery man, crazy guy, damn good cop, unlucky dude. Oh, and I want his mother. There, I said it. You wanna know why? Grab the book!
Back to the man himself. I loved being his shadow for a few days. Actually, those crazy shifts and the events slapping both Mike and the reader in the face over and over made each hour feel like a week, or a second, depending on the page you’re on! No time to breathe as Mike struggles with Homicide’s razor Amanda (Loved her!), a marital situation I didn’t envy him, his duties as a father and as a son. Desmond Ryan muddles everything up, the personal, the professional, and the past, to show Mike as a multi-layered, brilliant protagonist in the middle of a storm.
I need more!
Should I say anything about the case, I’d take part of the fun away, so I’ll keep my mouth shut and tell you that if you want a compelling, more real than real street ride, you need to read Death Before Coffee! In the meantime, I’m gonna get the first book in the series!!!
February 27, 2019
It is only a week since I read the first book in this series, so Mike was still fresh in my mind, although to be honest I don’t think he will ever go away. I really like this character, grumpy, stubborn, doesn’t really like change but one hell of a detective. In actual ‘story time’ 13 years have gone by, with a new direction for Mike away from juvenile protection to investigator. Mike’s new partner Ron, who saved his life in the last book and him are like chalk and cheese. Ron has come over from traffic and constantly refers back to it. Being on the streets really is a bit of an eye opener for him.
The story begins with a murder but there is so much more to this book. Mike is scarred from past events that affect his every day life, something that he simply can’t let go of from 13 years before. A good cop knows when something just doesn’t sit right. This is a book full of shocks that knock everything he has believed in. Although I got to know Mike’s family in the first book, traditions still continue in this one. Something he definitely needs because everyone can only take so much heartache. The book dips into Ron’s life a little, something I am sure will expand in the next book.
One of my favourite characters in this story has to be D.S. Amanda Black who is very much in charge of the case they are dealing with. This is one kick ass lady, hard talking, with a no-nonsense attitude that would lay her life down for anyone of her men. I so hope that she is in future books.
I really don’t want to give away what happens in this book, there are so many story lines, both current and from the past that are rearing their heads. Just loving this series. Do try to read book one too because part of that is the thread which is running through this book and into the next. So looking forward to book 3.
The story begins with a murder but there is so much more to this book. Mike is scarred from past events that affect his every day life, something that he simply can’t let go of from 13 years before. A good cop knows when something just doesn’t sit right. This is a book full of shocks that knock everything he has believed in. Although I got to know Mike’s family in the first book, traditions still continue in this one. Something he definitely needs because everyone can only take so much heartache. The book dips into Ron’s life a little, something I am sure will expand in the next book.
One of my favourite characters in this story has to be D.S. Amanda Black who is very much in charge of the case they are dealing with. This is one kick ass lady, hard talking, with a no-nonsense attitude that would lay her life down for anyone of her men. I so hope that she is in future books.
I really don’t want to give away what happens in this book, there are so many story lines, both current and from the past that are rearing their heads. Just loving this series. Do try to read book one too because part of that is the thread which is running through this book and into the next. So looking forward to book 3.
April 18, 2023
Death before Coffee is the second book in the Mike O'Shea crime series. I had just finished the first book and opened this up straight away. After the ending of 10-33 Assist PC, I just had to keep on reading.
Desmond P. Ryan writes in such a way that the reader is truly immersed in Mike O'Shea's world. He has moved department and reconnected with Ron. This time, it's not just the crime we witness. it's also the courtroom side too.
It's all so vividly real as the story unfolds. I really can tell Desmond P Ryan has lived this. I think it's great when you are unable to tell where the truth ends and the fiction begins.
I read this just as fast as I read the first. It flows so smoothly, and the story is just intriguing and so addictive. I am hooked on the Mike O'Shea series, and I am gutted that I read them so fast. I can only hope that there are more books on the horizon. I will read all of them if there are! That's a certainty! Thanks to ZooLoo's Book Tours and the author for the copy of the book.
Desmond P. Ryan writes in such a way that the reader is truly immersed in Mike O'Shea's world. He has moved department and reconnected with Ron. This time, it's not just the crime we witness. it's also the courtroom side too.
It's all so vividly real as the story unfolds. I really can tell Desmond P Ryan has lived this. I think it's great when you are unable to tell where the truth ends and the fiction begins.
I read this just as fast as I read the first. It flows so smoothly, and the story is just intriguing and so addictive. I am hooked on the Mike O'Shea series, and I am gutted that I read them so fast. I can only hope that there are more books on the horizon. I will read all of them if there are! That's a certainty! Thanks to ZooLoo's Book Tours and the author for the copy of the book.
June 25, 2019
Gives readers a fly-on-the-wall look at real police detecting. Not quite as gripping as the first novel, but you won't stop reading.
March 4, 2019
Mike O’Shea declares that the only 2 definites in police work are death and coffee-but in his second outing that cup of java which will keep him going through the long hours of a shift seems surprisingly elusive.Death, on the other hand, is having a field day.
Struggling with the aftermath of his last big case, with a killer still on the loose, Mike is testifying in a paedophile court case that should be open and shut but is dragging interminably along. He is working so much that his family life is falling apart in front of his eyes if only he was at home long enough to see it. Add in his new, ex-Traffic police, by the book partner, Ron and you have a recipe for an intense police procedural .
In the midst of solving his newest case of a one legged man-a neat touch by the author in my humble opinion-details from Book 1 keep popping up in unexpected places . The way that Desmond Ryan ties in these cases whilst teasing the reader into wanting more is genius.
The realistic way that Mike is portrayed is so down to earth, he is juggling so many repsonsibilities that he has ignored his duty to himself-it is not until he comes face to face with a future version of himself that he gets the wake up call that he needs.
The glue that holds personal and professional together is his confidant Julia, and his mother for whom non attendance at her famous Sunday dinners is only acceptable in the case of death.
This book is everything I needed in a followup to ‘The Funeral’, now I just need the release date for Book 3 please !!
Struggling with the aftermath of his last big case, with a killer still on the loose, Mike is testifying in a paedophile court case that should be open and shut but is dragging interminably along. He is working so much that his family life is falling apart in front of his eyes if only he was at home long enough to see it. Add in his new, ex-Traffic police, by the book partner, Ron and you have a recipe for an intense police procedural .
In the midst of solving his newest case of a one legged man-a neat touch by the author in my humble opinion-details from Book 1 keep popping up in unexpected places . The way that Desmond Ryan ties in these cases whilst teasing the reader into wanting more is genius.
The realistic way that Mike is portrayed is so down to earth, he is juggling so many repsonsibilities that he has ignored his duty to himself-it is not until he comes face to face with a future version of himself that he gets the wake up call that he needs.
The glue that holds personal and professional together is his confidant Julia, and his mother for whom non attendance at her famous Sunday dinners is only acceptable in the case of death.
This book is everything I needed in a followup to ‘The Funeral’, now I just need the release date for Book 3 please !!
April 12, 2019
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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Detective Mike O'Shea is a detective with a couple of reputations -- many know him as a cop's cop, one who gets the job done right. Everyone knows him as one of two detectives who were on the hunt for a prostitution ring (that specialized in underage girls) and one particular runaway teen that came thiiis close to breaking the ring before his partner was killed and he almost was, too. The killer got away and O'Shea was left with a cloud over him. No matter what he's done since, all his achievements are colored by that failure.
We join O'Shea as he's transferred to a new platoon, with a new partner (Ron Roberts, who can't seem to cope with the idea that he's not in traffic anymore - he's the only cop that I can remember in Crime Fiction who seems to think that's a good place to work). Before they can really get a feel for each other (beyond previous knowledge and inherent prejudice), they're called to the scene of a homicide. A one-legged man was beaten to death and dumped in a residential area.
The uniform on scene is not the shiniest star that the Academy has produced, but O'Shea and Roberts get things started enough that when the Homicide team shows up the investigation is well under-way. DS Amanda Black is tough, smart and driven and directs this investigation like her career depends on it.
We follow -- O'Shea and Roberts through the preliminary stages of the investigation, through some hiccups caused by overzealous colleagues up to the hunt for their prime suspect. We also get a few scenes with just Black. Those are insightful, but feel pretty weird -- there are so few scenes without O'Shea involved that anytime he's not "on screen" it feels strange.
Along with this hunt, O'Shea continues to deal with the investigation that made his reputation -- as much as he can while staying off the radar of his superiors -- a suicidal retired cop, and his family. His marriage is all but over, but his siblings, son and mother are a very present realities for him. We could've gotten more time with his son for my taste (and probably O'Shea's, now that I think of it). This all takes place over the course of a few days and O'Shea seems almost as in need of a good night's sleep and a good cup of coffee as he is in getting resolution to any of his cases.
The novel is well-paced and it takes no time at all to get sucked into the story. This has all the hallmarks of a solid crime novel and police procedural. O'Shea is the kind of old school detective that readers love, Roberts has a lot of potential as a character and Black could easily dethrone O'Shea as the series' focus (I'm not suggesting she will, but she's written in a way that it could happen without anyone complaining).
I do have a few issues with the book, naturally. Things that detracted from my enjoyment, things that kept me from being over the moon with is (and it had that potential), but nothing that ultimately was that problematic.
This is the second of a intended six-book series and really reads that way. Can it be read as a stand-alone? Yes, but it'd be far more satisfying as part of a series (well, I expect it would be, anyway). There are some aspects of the timeline that I'm not convinced I can buy, but maybe with some context I could. Similarly, while this book and the main plotline do have definite conclusions, it feels like Ryan just presses "Pause" on so many other things it's a little annoying. I'm not talking cliffhangers (minor or otherwise), it's more of a "well, we're done talking about this for a bit" kind of feel. Whether it pushes you to the next book is irritating, probably depends on the reader.
That last idea probably ties in to the realism vibe Ryan is going for. Which is great -- to a point. We all like the idea of something realistic, no matter the genre, really At least we all say we do -- but aren't so much of us really looking for types of satisfaction that reality can't provide? Especially in crime fiction -- we want the kind of resolution not available in our lives. Ryan's depiction of himself as a realistic writer works against him as much as it works for him. He has a little note to the reader before the novel assuring the reader "I'm an ex-cop, I've done this stuff, this is how it is." Pretty much insulating himself from criticism of a lot that goes on in the book unless you're prepared to bring an armload of research to bear. That note actually prejudiced me against the book, it reeked of someone who "doth protest too much," and just set my teeth on edge. Show me your realism, show me your authenticity and convince me of it -- don't boast about it. It took me a long time to shake that bad first impression, but I do think I was able to push past it -- but I'd have liked O'Shea and the rest a lot more if I hadn't had to.
Ryan has a strong voice and uses it to give the right details to provide a very compelling read -- it's fast, gritty and with characters that'll stick with you after you've moved on to your next read. Was it as good as it could have been? No, but not because of an inherent weakness, just because Ryan didn't do enough with his strengths -- but he's got four more books in this series to fulfill the promise. I had a good time reading Death Before Coffee and I bet you will, too.
My thanks to damppebbles blog tours for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided -- including the book, which did not influence my opinion.
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Detective Mike O'Shea is a detective with a couple of reputations -- many know him as a cop's cop, one who gets the job done right. Everyone knows him as one of two detectives who were on the hunt for a prostitution ring (that specialized in underage girls) and one particular runaway teen that came thiiis close to breaking the ring before his partner was killed and he almost was, too. The killer got away and O'Shea was left with a cloud over him. No matter what he's done since, all his achievements are colored by that failure.
We join O'Shea as he's transferred to a new platoon, with a new partner (Ron Roberts, who can't seem to cope with the idea that he's not in traffic anymore - he's the only cop that I can remember in Crime Fiction who seems to think that's a good place to work). Before they can really get a feel for each other (beyond previous knowledge and inherent prejudice), they're called to the scene of a homicide. A one-legged man was beaten to death and dumped in a residential area.
The uniform on scene is not the shiniest star that the Academy has produced, but O'Shea and Roberts get things started enough that when the Homicide team shows up the investigation is well under-way. DS Amanda Black is tough, smart and driven and directs this investigation like her career depends on it.
We follow -- O'Shea and Roberts through the preliminary stages of the investigation, through some hiccups caused by overzealous colleagues up to the hunt for their prime suspect. We also get a few scenes with just Black. Those are insightful, but feel pretty weird -- there are so few scenes without O'Shea involved that anytime he's not "on screen" it feels strange.
Along with this hunt, O'Shea continues to deal with the investigation that made his reputation -- as much as he can while staying off the radar of his superiors -- a suicidal retired cop, and his family. His marriage is all but over, but his siblings, son and mother are a very present realities for him. We could've gotten more time with his son for my taste (and probably O'Shea's, now that I think of it). This all takes place over the course of a few days and O'Shea seems almost as in need of a good night's sleep and a good cup of coffee as he is in getting resolution to any of his cases.
The novel is well-paced and it takes no time at all to get sucked into the story. This has all the hallmarks of a solid crime novel and police procedural. O'Shea is the kind of old school detective that readers love, Roberts has a lot of potential as a character and Black could easily dethrone O'Shea as the series' focus (I'm not suggesting she will, but she's written in a way that it could happen without anyone complaining).
I do have a few issues with the book, naturally. Things that detracted from my enjoyment, things that kept me from being over the moon with is (and it had that potential), but nothing that ultimately was that problematic.
This is the second of a intended six-book series and really reads that way. Can it be read as a stand-alone? Yes, but it'd be far more satisfying as part of a series (well, I expect it would be, anyway). There are some aspects of the timeline that I'm not convinced I can buy, but maybe with some context I could. Similarly, while this book and the main plotline do have definite conclusions, it feels like Ryan just presses "Pause" on so many other things it's a little annoying. I'm not talking cliffhangers (minor or otherwise), it's more of a "well, we're done talking about this for a bit" kind of feel. Whether it pushes you to the next book is irritating, probably depends on the reader.
That last idea probably ties in to the realism vibe Ryan is going for. Which is great -- to a point. We all like the idea of something realistic, no matter the genre, really At least we all say we do -- but aren't so much of us really looking for types of satisfaction that reality can't provide? Especially in crime fiction -- we want the kind of resolution not available in our lives. Ryan's depiction of himself as a realistic writer works against him as much as it works for him. He has a little note to the reader before the novel assuring the reader "I'm an ex-cop, I've done this stuff, this is how it is." Pretty much insulating himself from criticism of a lot that goes on in the book unless you're prepared to bring an armload of research to bear. That note actually prejudiced me against the book, it reeked of someone who "doth protest too much," and just set my teeth on edge. Show me your realism, show me your authenticity and convince me of it -- don't boast about it. It took me a long time to shake that bad first impression, but I do think I was able to push past it -- but I'd have liked O'Shea and the rest a lot more if I hadn't had to.
Ryan has a strong voice and uses it to give the right details to provide a very compelling read -- it's fast, gritty and with characters that'll stick with you after you've moved on to your next read. Was it as good as it could have been? No, but not because of an inherent weakness, just because Ryan didn't do enough with his strengths -- but he's got four more books in this series to fulfill the promise. I had a good time reading Death Before Coffee and I bet you will, too.
My thanks to damppebbles blog tours for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided -- including the book, which did not influence my opinion.
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April 9, 2019
This is book two in the Mike O'Shea series. It can be read as a standalone novel, however I would recommend reading the first book in the series. It gives some interesting insights into the characters and a storyline that flows from the first into the second book.
Detective Mike O’Shea is haunted by the death of his partner, his marriage is less than spectacular and he drags himself to work in a tired, hungover and less than enthusiastic state. Then homicide of a one-legged man brings an old colleague back into his work sphere.
It's snarky, tragic, honest and witty. O'Shea is down-to-earth and a man with a conscience. He also has a penchant for attracting trouble, criminals with weapons and colleagues with an attitude.
This book got me thinking about the effect PTSD has on police officers and whether they are in a similar position as soldiers during or after well-known battles or conflicts that took place centuries and decades ago. That their mental health or conditions caused by mental health issues due to trauma, stress and witnessing or experiencing insurmountable inhumane events, were not acknowledged, misdiagnosed or glossed over by those in charge and society.
Depending on where a police officer serves or works they can be in a daily situation which is the equivalent of front-line warfare. In fact I am sure there are plenty in city districts who would describe it as being at war. Then there is the fact that emergency and police services have to witness and often experience the kind of traumatic events that the majority of us would probably have difficulty dealing with. Murder, abuse, rape, human trafficking, paedo-rings, drug casualties and crimes. Often on a daily basis. How do they cope?
The trauma, guilt and I think in this case certainly PTSD, plays a major role for the main character. His waking and sleeping moments are filled with regret and doubt about the way he lost his partner, and how he failed a young trafficking victim.
Ryan delivers what he promises - an authenticity derived from experience. He mixes the playful banter and acerbic humour cops need to keep their heads above water in a world full of heinous crimes with a compelling plot, which is woven into the crime that plays out in this book. It's crime fiction with a good ol' boys in blue camaraderie, authentic characters and an intriguing plot.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Detective Mike O’Shea is haunted by the death of his partner, his marriage is less than spectacular and he drags himself to work in a tired, hungover and less than enthusiastic state. Then homicide of a one-legged man brings an old colleague back into his work sphere.
It's snarky, tragic, honest and witty. O'Shea is down-to-earth and a man with a conscience. He also has a penchant for attracting trouble, criminals with weapons and colleagues with an attitude.
This book got me thinking about the effect PTSD has on police officers and whether they are in a similar position as soldiers during or after well-known battles or conflicts that took place centuries and decades ago. That their mental health or conditions caused by mental health issues due to trauma, stress and witnessing or experiencing insurmountable inhumane events, were not acknowledged, misdiagnosed or glossed over by those in charge and society.
Depending on where a police officer serves or works they can be in a daily situation which is the equivalent of front-line warfare. In fact I am sure there are plenty in city districts who would describe it as being at war. Then there is the fact that emergency and police services have to witness and often experience the kind of traumatic events that the majority of us would probably have difficulty dealing with. Murder, abuse, rape, human trafficking, paedo-rings, drug casualties and crimes. Often on a daily basis. How do they cope?
The trauma, guilt and I think in this case certainly PTSD, plays a major role for the main character. His waking and sleeping moments are filled with regret and doubt about the way he lost his partner, and how he failed a young trafficking victim.
Ryan delivers what he promises - an authenticity derived from experience. He mixes the playful banter and acerbic humour cops need to keep their heads above water in a world full of heinous crimes with a compelling plot, which is woven into the crime that plays out in this book. It's crime fiction with a good ol' boys in blue camaraderie, authentic characters and an intriguing plot.
*I received a courtesy copy*
April 20, 2023
Characters- 8
In this story we aren’t in troduced to many new characters, we meet many faces again from book one which I really enjoyed. Many of the side characters of book one became more prominent in this story which I really liked. There is a lot of trauma from book one and although this book is set 15 years later we can see how this has affected them over the years and is still affecting them.
Atmosphere - 8
This was a very tense read. Mike is under a lot of pressure and also dealing with a lot of trauma. The weight of what happened in book one is still sitting on Mike. This is a very intense read with some graphic scenes just like book one.
Writing - 8
I really like Desmond’s writing. It is very easy to get absorbed into. Desmond has a way of sucking you in and really bringing you along with Mike and following his investigation.
Plot - 7
I didn’t enjoy this plot as much as book one. In this we are just following a murder investigation which I still enjoyed but not as much as book one. I can see where this story is going which I am excited to read as we continue on this series and I hope Mike finds out the answers he is looking for.
Intrigue - 7
Due to not enjoying the plot as much as book one I didn’t find myself as intrigued which is okay but there is a certain other story line that I am more invested in which I hope becomes a more prominent story line.
Logic - 7
This all makes sense. We are in a contemporary world so nothing too crazy happened. Although I am still questioning Mike and some of the decisions he makes throughout this novel.
Enjoyment- 8
I had a good time with this story and am looking forward to reading book three.
In this story we aren’t in troduced to many new characters, we meet many faces again from book one which I really enjoyed. Many of the side characters of book one became more prominent in this story which I really liked. There is a lot of trauma from book one and although this book is set 15 years later we can see how this has affected them over the years and is still affecting them.
Atmosphere - 8
This was a very tense read. Mike is under a lot of pressure and also dealing with a lot of trauma. The weight of what happened in book one is still sitting on Mike. This is a very intense read with some graphic scenes just like book one.
Writing - 8
I really like Desmond’s writing. It is very easy to get absorbed into. Desmond has a way of sucking you in and really bringing you along with Mike and following his investigation.
Plot - 7
I didn’t enjoy this plot as much as book one. In this we are just following a murder investigation which I still enjoyed but not as much as book one. I can see where this story is going which I am excited to read as we continue on this series and I hope Mike finds out the answers he is looking for.
Intrigue - 7
Due to not enjoying the plot as much as book one I didn’t find myself as intrigued which is okay but there is a certain other story line that I am more invested in which I hope becomes a more prominent story line.
Logic - 7
This all makes sense. We are in a contemporary world so nothing too crazy happened. Although I am still questioning Mike and some of the decisions he makes throughout this novel.
Enjoyment- 8
I had a good time with this story and am looking forward to reading book three.
April 11, 2019
This is the sequel to 10-33 Assist PC and the novella The Funeral although 13 years have passed. I read it without reading the previous books and although the previous events are refered to, it is easy to read as a stand alone. If you get the opportunity though I would recommend reading in order.
This novel is written in such a unique way. The short, punchy, to the point sentences give off the impression of a no-nonsense, no frills detective story that is just heavily focussed on telling the story of its main detective, Mike O’ Shea and the murder investigation. The short timescale of the events in the book makes an intense ride. The buzz created by the writer creates the vibe of both the gritty and the mundane aspects of real police work brilliantly and honestly. Mr Ryan’s real life experience just oozes from every page, making this such a brilliant read from start to end. There is no sugar-coating, no glitz or glamour, just legitimate, truthful writing.
Mike O’ Shea is written beautifully. Still vulnerable and trapped in the events of 13 years ago he is highly dedicated to his job, but not to himself or his wife. It’s difficult not to become part of Mike as the investigation happens. He is exhausted, his mind on so many things and carrying the weight of his partner’s death so clearly on his sleeve.
This is such a brilliant crime novel and I will be off to read the other 2 in the very near future.
This novel is written in such a unique way. The short, punchy, to the point sentences give off the impression of a no-nonsense, no frills detective story that is just heavily focussed on telling the story of its main detective, Mike O’ Shea and the murder investigation. The short timescale of the events in the book makes an intense ride. The buzz created by the writer creates the vibe of both the gritty and the mundane aspects of real police work brilliantly and honestly. Mr Ryan’s real life experience just oozes from every page, making this such a brilliant read from start to end. There is no sugar-coating, no glitz or glamour, just legitimate, truthful writing.
Mike O’ Shea is written beautifully. Still vulnerable and trapped in the events of 13 years ago he is highly dedicated to his job, but not to himself or his wife. It’s difficult not to become part of Mike as the investigation happens. He is exhausted, his mind on so many things and carrying the weight of his partner’s death so clearly on his sleeve.
This is such a brilliant crime novel and I will be off to read the other 2 in the very near future.
April 14, 2019
This is the 2nd book in the Mike O’Shea series by Desmond Ryan, but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
Detective Mike O’Shea is haunted by the death of his partner, Sal who died in arms, his marriage to Carman is troubled to say the least, she is staying out all night working late…!
As a result he is drinking too much and ends up turning up at work, tired and hungover and just a little jaded. He just wants a hot cup of coffee. While his world is in turmoil, he still goes home to his mother’s every Sunday for a family dinner, he’s not alone in the world.
He is partnered with Ron, a fedora wearing, by the book cop, a stickler for the rules….and they are sent to the homicide of a one-legged man….and so the investigation begins…
Ryan tells a realistic and believable tale, with the humour and camaraderie between colleagues in difficult and sometimes dangerous situations…..this has a totally absorbing and compelling plot….gradually all coming together in this clever crime thriller.
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
Detective Mike O’Shea is haunted by the death of his partner, Sal who died in arms, his marriage to Carman is troubled to say the least, she is staying out all night working late…!
As a result he is drinking too much and ends up turning up at work, tired and hungover and just a little jaded. He just wants a hot cup of coffee. While his world is in turmoil, he still goes home to his mother’s every Sunday for a family dinner, he’s not alone in the world.
He is partnered with Ron, a fedora wearing, by the book cop, a stickler for the rules….and they are sent to the homicide of a one-legged man….and so the investigation begins…
Ryan tells a realistic and believable tale, with the humour and camaraderie between colleagues in difficult and sometimes dangerous situations…..this has a totally absorbing and compelling plot….gradually all coming together in this clever crime thriller.
Thank you to Damppebbles Blog Tours for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
November 22, 2019
I put this novel on my Kindle so I would have something to read during a recent train trip. It is written by a retired Toronto, Ontario detective and that is obvious from the first page.
It is gritty, gruesome, vulgar and brutal. I would guess that it is an accurate representation of the life of a detective in a city of size of Toronto. Mike O'Shea is rugged, a disheveled dresser and for almost the entirety of the book apparently doesn't sleep. He is partnered with a former traffic cop and their relationship is tenuous. Mike's former long-time partner has apparently been murdered in a police action that is alluded to throughout the story. His boss, Detective Sargeant Amanda Black calls him "Crumply-pants and every time I read it I have to laugh. The best two sentences in the book are Amanda's mind being described as "on the best of days was like a thousand hummingbirds going in all directions. With minimal sleep, it was as if those birds were on crack."
A little too raw and rough for me but a good story to read on the train.
It is gritty, gruesome, vulgar and brutal. I would guess that it is an accurate representation of the life of a detective in a city of size of Toronto. Mike O'Shea is rugged, a disheveled dresser and for almost the entirety of the book apparently doesn't sleep. He is partnered with a former traffic cop and their relationship is tenuous. Mike's former long-time partner has apparently been murdered in a police action that is alluded to throughout the story. His boss, Detective Sargeant Amanda Black calls him "Crumply-pants and every time I read it I have to laugh. The best two sentences in the book are Amanda's mind being described as "on the best of days was like a thousand hummingbirds going in all directions. With minimal sleep, it was as if those birds were on crack."
A little too raw and rough for me but a good story to read on the train.
April 11, 2023
After reading 10-33 Officer Assist just a few days ago, I was looking forward to reading book 2. I'd just about recovered from the emotional turmoil of the end, that I can't mention without spoiling but is some of the most heart rending, beautiful writing I've ever read.
This time Mike has moved department as a result of that last case and picks up with Ron who saved his life 13 years ago. Their first case is a one legged man found dead in a lane way.
The books are set in Canada, and the case this time seems almost incidental to the action of the team trying to balance lots of plates. Loved Amanda in this.
There is still a loose thread that needs to be tied up so I really do hope there is more to come from this author. I am totally hooked into this series and these characters. Mike is the indestructible man it seems although lots of people are trying. There are a few heart in mouth moments, some light hearted little one liners. This book really has it all.
This time Mike has moved department as a result of that last case and picks up with Ron who saved his life 13 years ago. Their first case is a one legged man found dead in a lane way.
The books are set in Canada, and the case this time seems almost incidental to the action of the team trying to balance lots of plates. Loved Amanda in this.
There is still a loose thread that needs to be tied up so I really do hope there is more to come from this author. I am totally hooked into this series and these characters. Mike is the indestructible man it seems although lots of people are trying. There are a few heart in mouth moments, some light hearted little one liners. This book really has it all.
February 19, 2019
This book was drier than the first book in this series. It involves more of the day to day work that is involved in the investigation of a murder. Mike and his partner, Rob Roberts, find a handicapped man murdered and dumped in an alleyway. Mike has been promoted to Homicide in the 13 years since the events in the first book "10-33 Assist PC". He is still haunted by the events that killed his partner. He has been married two times, and it looks like the second one is dying too. As he investigates the killing of the unknown man, Mike finds himself under attack. As he heals, he discovers more questions from the past. Maybe book 3 will begin to give us some answers. This book started slow but built up momentum as it progressed and it ended way too soon!
April 15, 2023
Wow! This story is so real and compelling that at times I had a hard time comprehending. Mike O'Shea is back but in this book it's 13 years later. The plot is still crime thriller but I loved the court room drama too. Mike makes me think of a tough cop with a soft heart underneath. The police procedure's are real and make it a suspenseful read. A very dark and gritty mystery just like I take my coffee!
April 14, 2023
Death Before Coffee by Desmond P. Ryan.
Book Two in the Mike O'Shea Crime Fiction Series.
By 2:27 on a Thursday afternoon, the one-legged man from Room 8 at 147 Loxitor Avenue has been beaten to death with a lead pipe. Can Mike and his team find the killer?
I really am enjoying this series. I love Mike. I did like Amanda too. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
Book Two in the Mike O'Shea Crime Fiction Series.
By 2:27 on a Thursday afternoon, the one-legged man from Room 8 at 147 Loxitor Avenue has been beaten to death with a lead pipe. Can Mike and his team find the killer?
I really am enjoying this series. I love Mike. I did like Amanda too. I do hope there is more to come. 5*.
May 1, 2023
LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE I LOVE THIS BOOK
It is well written with an absolutely captivating storyline, I couldn't putit down, I even took it in to the toilet with me. It is clear to see that the author knows the content he is writing about very well.
I love the characters some more than pthers but all are very real and jump off the page.
I cannot recommend this author enough
It is well written with an absolutely captivating storyline, I couldn't putit down, I even took it in to the toilet with me. It is clear to see that the author knows the content he is writing about very well.
I love the characters some more than pthers but all are very real and jump off the page.
I cannot recommend this author enough
May 29, 2019
*Full review on my blog*
This is the second novel in the Mike O’Shea series set in Toronto and my first introduction to Detective O’Shea.
The work of a district D was never-ending, often thankless, with terrible hours. Most of the guy–and it was mostly guys in the districts–were either there for the money, afraid of the road, or occasionally the oddballs who actually believed they were making a difference, one case at a time. Mike O’Shea and Ron Roberts were the oddballs. They both thought, in their own little way, that they could make a difference.
Mike is plagued with nightmares of his former partner Sal’s murder, his wife is not coming home and his new, by-the-book partner, Ron, is “a pain in the ass”. Not to mention his pit bull boss, Detective Sergeant Amanda Black, who he doesn’t want to piss off.
The new case of the murdered one-legged man is turning into a mess, not to mention the unbelievable secrets his former mentor was keeping from him.
Mr. Ryan does an amazing job delving into Mike O’Shea’s psyche unveiling his coping mechanism of voicing his inner mantras to keep himself calm and unflappable. Mike’s struggle to pick up the pieces of his life and move on is realistic and believable.
Death Before Coffee kept me in engrossed with O’Shea’s struggles with life, the job, and his sarcastic and frequently funny quips said under his breath.
A great police procedural told with the experience of a seasoned detective who has seen it all. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Mr. Ryan for giving me the opportunity to review this book with no expectation of a positive review given.
More book reviews at The Eclectic Review
This is the second novel in the Mike O’Shea series set in Toronto and my first introduction to Detective O’Shea.
The work of a district D was never-ending, often thankless, with terrible hours. Most of the guy–and it was mostly guys in the districts–were either there for the money, afraid of the road, or occasionally the oddballs who actually believed they were making a difference, one case at a time. Mike O’Shea and Ron Roberts were the oddballs. They both thought, in their own little way, that they could make a difference.
Mike is plagued with nightmares of his former partner Sal’s murder, his wife is not coming home and his new, by-the-book partner, Ron, is “a pain in the ass”. Not to mention his pit bull boss, Detective Sergeant Amanda Black, who he doesn’t want to piss off.
The new case of the murdered one-legged man is turning into a mess, not to mention the unbelievable secrets his former mentor was keeping from him.
Mr. Ryan does an amazing job delving into Mike O’Shea’s psyche unveiling his coping mechanism of voicing his inner mantras to keep himself calm and unflappable. Mike’s struggle to pick up the pieces of his life and move on is realistic and believable.
Death Before Coffee kept me in engrossed with O’Shea’s struggles with life, the job, and his sarcastic and frequently funny quips said under his breath.
A great police procedural told with the experience of a seasoned detective who has seen it all. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Mr. Ryan for giving me the opportunity to review this book with no expectation of a positive review given.
More book reviews at The Eclectic Review
July 21, 2019
my review for Death before Coffee will be going up on the blog today for the blog tour but I loved it, Ryan knows how to write and knows what he is writing about.
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