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Lancaster & Daniels #3
Bad News Travels
The shocking suicide of Beth Daniels’s father—a prominent surgeon—has thrown the FBI agent into a tailspin. But when Beth heads to Saint Augustine, Florida, for the funeral, she’ll need more than the emotional support of her boyfriend, retired detective Jon Lancaster. She’ll need his gut instinct for solving a mystery.
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life—and death.
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life—and death.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2020
301 people are currently reading
1305 people want to read
About the author
James Swain
49 books352 followersJames Swain is the national best selling author of seventeen mystery novels, and has been published in twelve different languages. His books have been chosen as Mysteries of the Year by Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, and have received three Barry Award nominations, a Florida Book Award for Fiction, and France’s prestigious Prix Calibre .38 for Best American Crime Fiction. Born in Huntington, New York, he graduated from New York University and worked as a magazine editor before moving to Florida to run a successful advertising firm. When he isn’t writing, he enjoys researching casino scams and cons, a subject on which he’s considered an expert.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 6, 2020
I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. The release date for this book was 4 Aug 2020
Bad News Travels is a gripping thriller that totally delivers. It is fast paced , interesting and kept me guessing till the end. I love a book that has characters that are afraid to show their flaws. The author really painted a great picture of dealing with death, grieving, and facing realities that aren’t always pleasant. This book definitely leaves you wanting more.
August 6, 2020
Bad News Travels is a gripping thriller that totally delivers. It is fast paced , interesting and kept me guessing till the end. I love a book that has characters that are afraid to show their flaws. The author really painted a great picture of dealing with death, grieving, and facing realities that aren’t always pleasant. This book definitely leaves you wanting more.
September 12, 2021
Bad News Travels is third book in Swain’s Daniels and Lancaster series. If you are used to Swain writing about gamblers and con artists as he does in his Tony Valentine series, then this series will be a change of pace for you. Daniels and Lancaster are a couple, but they are both law enforcement officers, with Beth Daniels being a crack FBI Special Agent and Jon Lancaster being a retired police officer. Set in St. Augustine, Florida, this fast-paced action sequence involves the suicide bomber of Daniels’ father and a ring of pornographers and blackmailers that hit too close to home. This is an easy read, filled with action, not necessarily a cerebral read.
October 1, 2020
The third of the Lancaster/Daniels mystery thrillers. I thought this was the weakest of the three. I'm not really that tied into the Daniels character. Really is too moody to be an effective FBI agent.
As Swain novels go, I much prefer the Tony Valentine novels. And, I really think Swain prefers that character as well. Much better stories.
As Swain novels go, I much prefer the Tony Valentine novels. And, I really think Swain prefers that character as well. Much better stories.
February 9, 2021
OK, I'm an unabashed Swain fan. I used to attend his book signings locally before Covid got in the way and would enjoy his close up magic act at a local hotel. I got hooked on his early novels about the retired detective working with casinos to thwart the bad guys and find this series has similar characteristics. Interesting characters, well plotted, some twisty turns in the stories and, as always in his Florida novels, a great sense of place. This one takes place in St. Augustine, and my dear one and I are headed over once it warms up and our second shots have been secured since this story reminded me just how housebound we are getting.
You know that if one of the partners is retired from government service and the other is still employed by the FBI that some interesting story twists will occur as one might have a tendency to break the rules that no longer apply to him.
Fun read!
You know that if one of the partners is retired from government service and the other is still employed by the FBI that some interesting story twists will occur as one might have a tendency to break the rules that no longer apply to him.
Fun read!
July 23, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance copy of Bad News Travels, the third novel to feature PI Jon Lancaster and FBI Special Agent Beth Daniels.
Jon and Beth are in St Augustine, Florida for the funeral of her father, Martin, who killed himself. Certain anomalies, like the lies the investigating detective is telling them and the Russians outside the funeral home, encourage them to dig deeper. Their investigation throws up more questions than answers and more anomalies.
I thoroughly enjoyed Bad News Travels which is a fun read with an interesting plot. It is told by Jon and Beth as required by the plot details so the reader is concentrated on the investigation and is free to deduce and interpret alongside them. I think I scored zero on that, having no idea where it was going and taking too much at face value.
I’m a big fan of this series as I find it an easy, entertaining read and this novel is no different. The plot is convoluted enough to hold the reader’s attention without straining the brain, the action scenes are frequent and often involve violence but they are done in a slightly over the top manner that negates the horror and it all seems a touch tongue in cheek. As I said, fun.
Jon and Beth are a match made in heaven. She is the law-abiding, rule following special agent, he is the lawless one who believes that judiciously applied violence can move any case forward. She scolds him but takes advantage of the information he uncovers.
Bad News Travels is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Jon and Beth are in St Augustine, Florida for the funeral of her father, Martin, who killed himself. Certain anomalies, like the lies the investigating detective is telling them and the Russians outside the funeral home, encourage them to dig deeper. Their investigation throws up more questions than answers and more anomalies.
I thoroughly enjoyed Bad News Travels which is a fun read with an interesting plot. It is told by Jon and Beth as required by the plot details so the reader is concentrated on the investigation and is free to deduce and interpret alongside them. I think I scored zero on that, having no idea where it was going and taking too much at face value.
I’m a big fan of this series as I find it an easy, entertaining read and this novel is no different. The plot is convoluted enough to hold the reader’s attention without straining the brain, the action scenes are frequent and often involve violence but they are done in a slightly over the top manner that negates the horror and it all seems a touch tongue in cheek. As I said, fun.
Jon and Beth are a match made in heaven. She is the law-abiding, rule following special agent, he is the lawless one who believes that judiciously applied violence can move any case forward. She scolds him but takes advantage of the information he uncovers.
Bad News Travels is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
September 7, 2020
Bad News Travels by James Swain
Synopsis /
The shocking suicide of Beth Daniels’ father—a prominent surgeon—has thrown the FBI agent into a tailspin. But when Beth heads to Saint Augustine, Florida, for the funeral, she’ll need more than the emotional support of her boyfriend, retired detective Jon Lancaster. She’ll need his gut instinct for solving a mystery.
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life—and death.
My Thoughts /
A solid mystery with a good story and an interesting plot with (very) likable characters – the perfect mix for a great book. Many have described this book as a gripping thriller - I am not one of those. By definition, gripping means holding the attention or interest intensely; fascinating; enthralling. Now don’t get me wrong, I am definitely a fan of this book and will certainly go back and read the series from the beginning but it did not give me that nail biting, page turning, I’ve got to keep reading because I need to know what happens next feeling. That being said, it was an enormously enjoyable read - the plot is convoluted enough to hold the reader’s attention without straining the brain, the action scenes are frequent and often involve violence, but are done in way that negates the horror and is all a bit tongue in cheek. Jon is roguish and beguiling – definitely a character you can fall in love with reading. I enjoy reading a book that has characters that are not afraid to show their flaws. The author painted a great picture of dealing with death, grieving, and facing realities that aren’t always pleasant. A great twist at the end that I didn’t see coming!
Synopsis /
The shocking suicide of Beth Daniels’ father—a prominent surgeon—has thrown the FBI agent into a tailspin. But when Beth heads to Saint Augustine, Florida, for the funeral, she’ll need more than the emotional support of her boyfriend, retired detective Jon Lancaster. She’ll need his gut instinct for solving a mystery.
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life—and death.
My Thoughts /
A solid mystery with a good story and an interesting plot with (very) likable characters – the perfect mix for a great book. Many have described this book as a gripping thriller - I am not one of those. By definition, gripping means holding the attention or interest intensely; fascinating; enthralling. Now don’t get me wrong, I am definitely a fan of this book and will certainly go back and read the series from the beginning but it did not give me that nail biting, page turning, I’ve got to keep reading because I need to know what happens next feeling. That being said, it was an enormously enjoyable read - the plot is convoluted enough to hold the reader’s attention without straining the brain, the action scenes are frequent and often involve violence, but are done in way that negates the horror and is all a bit tongue in cheek. Jon is roguish and beguiling – definitely a character you can fall in love with reading. I enjoy reading a book that has characters that are not afraid to show their flaws. The author painted a great picture of dealing with death, grieving, and facing realities that aren’t always pleasant. A great twist at the end that I didn’t see coming!
September 7, 2020
I received a free copy of the book from Net Galley to read and review.
“Bad News Travels” by James Swain , the third of the Lancaster and Daniels crime novels is a good story. Nothing exceptional that will keep you up past your bedtime, but also not In the “ Did Not Finish” category. It was OK, and I do not mean to damn it with faint praise. Mr. Swain knows how to write and how to satisfy his readers.
The story was well plotted, though a bit slow to start with, and the writing good. The two main characters John Lancaster, a former SEAL (must be one in every book these days) , ex-cop and now a PI specializing in the fight against human trafficking; the other main actor is Beth Daniels, an FBI agent. Both have reputations for going outside the bounds of the law to get bad guys. Daniels relies on Lancaster for the heavy work. His plan of action is simply stated: Hit them first, Hit them hard and Hit them dirty. It usually gets results. Daniels uses the widespread surveillance and electronic snooping capabilities of the FBI to get to the criminals’ hidden schemes. Together they are tough to beat.
The story is set in St.Augustine, Fl., a city in which I have waited out winter for some years ( but not this past year due to the travel bans)and I enjoyed reading about its’ many charms. Briefly the plot is this. Agent Daniels‘ father is found dead, a suicide. The family is shocked, as families of suicides often are. He father, a retired doctor was respected, wealthy and in good health. Daniels soon finds that her father’s bank accounts cleaned out. He left no explanation, except to say he was sorry for the shame he brought to his family. What sort of shame? Daniels asks Lancaster to look into things for her. He finds that there was a woman at the center of everything. From there the story takes off, moving through investigative steps and various nasty characters to reveal a scenario that threatens heartbreaking revelations.
“ Bad News Travels” is good , beeezy entertainment. You will find some violence, a some sleazy. characters, no bad language, but nothing off-putting.
June 17, 2020
I read a lot. I love finding new series and of all the one's that I've found, I think this is my favorite.
This book #3 in the series starts with the death of Beth Daniels father. It is officially listed as a suicide but Beth thinks the St. Augustine police are lying. This police force has had it's issues in the past so her fears are not unfounded. When Jon and Beth arrive at the funeral, Jon sees a car with occupants parked across the street from the church. It doesn't fit. Jon approaches the car and finds 2 Russian gangsters. He's familiar with the Russians that have made Florida, mostly Fort Lauderdale their home.
After the funeral, Beth and her sister Melanie find anomalies in their father's financial records. Jon finds a hidden safe containing a lap top. While Jon and Beth are out digging around, her father's home is invaded by armed thugs. Melanie and her family hide in the panic room which leads to the question, why does her father need a panic room? The story proceeds from there.
What I love most about this series is Jon. He's one of the most interesting characters that I've run across in recent years. And I love the descriptive way that the author describes Florida.
This book #3 in the series starts with the death of Beth Daniels father. It is officially listed as a suicide but Beth thinks the St. Augustine police are lying. This police force has had it's issues in the past so her fears are not unfounded. When Jon and Beth arrive at the funeral, Jon sees a car with occupants parked across the street from the church. It doesn't fit. Jon approaches the car and finds 2 Russian gangsters. He's familiar with the Russians that have made Florida, mostly Fort Lauderdale their home.
After the funeral, Beth and her sister Melanie find anomalies in their father's financial records. Jon finds a hidden safe containing a lap top. While Jon and Beth are out digging around, her father's home is invaded by armed thugs. Melanie and her family hide in the panic room which leads to the question, why does her father need a panic room? The story proceeds from there.
What I love most about this series is Jon. He's one of the most interesting characters that I've run across in recent years. And I love the descriptive way that the author describes Florida.
July 22, 2020
Bad News Travels is book 3 in the Lancaster and Daniels series and the whole time I read it I had @booksknits on the brain because of her love for solid books like The Jack Reacher series. Sian, that's me recommending this book to you btw. 😆
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I haven't read book 1 and 2 of this series but didn't feel like I missed something in any way. I'm sure though, reading them will probably help to gain a richer understanding of Daniels' and Lancaster's relationship.
In this book, Daniels' father turns up dead and so the two of them take it upon themselves to investigate and get to the bottom of it. As Daniels is an FBI agent and Lancaster is an ex SEAL/ex cop turned private investigator, the mystery surrounding her father's death is in good hands. What they aren't prepared for though is the number of secrets her dad was keeping and the way in which they begin to unravel as they get deeper and deeper into the case.
What I loved about this book was how fast paced it was, the pinch of comedy, the way the story unfolded naturally and the way in which clues began to reveal themselves as the story moved forward.
Although there were many twists to the book, I never felt tense or anxious for the two characters at any point and I don't know if that's because James Swain did a really good job in building my faith in their ability, because I didn't grasp the intensity of their situation or because it didn't feel like anyone good was at risk of being killed. Either way, I definitely recommend this book to those who love a good action book and I would 100% read more books by Swain as this was pretty solid.
Thank you @netgalley for this arc.
.
I haven't read book 1 and 2 of this series but didn't feel like I missed something in any way. I'm sure though, reading them will probably help to gain a richer understanding of Daniels' and Lancaster's relationship.
In this book, Daniels' father turns up dead and so the two of them take it upon themselves to investigate and get to the bottom of it. As Daniels is an FBI agent and Lancaster is an ex SEAL/ex cop turned private investigator, the mystery surrounding her father's death is in good hands. What they aren't prepared for though is the number of secrets her dad was keeping and the way in which they begin to unravel as they get deeper and deeper into the case.
What I loved about this book was how fast paced it was, the pinch of comedy, the way the story unfolded naturally and the way in which clues began to reveal themselves as the story moved forward.
Although there were many twists to the book, I never felt tense or anxious for the two characters at any point and I don't know if that's because James Swain did a really good job in building my faith in their ability, because I didn't grasp the intensity of their situation or because it didn't feel like anyone good was at risk of being killed. Either way, I definitely recommend this book to those who love a good action book and I would 100% read more books by Swain as this was pretty solid.
Thank you @netgalley for this arc.
December 8, 2021
3.5 stars for this Lancaster & Daniels novel. I've now read all three and when I look back over my scoring, they all come in consistently around a three. I find the stories featuring former SEAL and ex-cop, Jon Lancaster and his girlfriend Beth Daniels, an FBI special agent to be a double edged sword.
Generally speaking, the plots are fine, the pacing is brisk, and Swain makes good use of his knowledge of Florida as he delivers a sense of place in each novel.
What holds me back from truly loving these, I suppose, has to do with the often artificial feel that inhabits the relationship and dialogue between Daniels and Lancaster. Daniels in particular can become very grating as she appears one minute to be over-bearing and aggressive to a fault, while the next moment brings her to relying heavily on Jon's steady-as-a-rock persona as she faces some melt down within her psyche. She often bludgeons people with her FBI credentials, throwing her weight around with local cops like someone who is simply overcompensating for immense insecurities. And her behavior with Lancaster is often more reminiscent of a junior high school girl who threatens to "never talk to you again" if you don't do as she wishes, than it is of a successful federal agent.
See? This is where I get bogged down and drop my rating-- it's just that this pair seems incredibly unlikely to me, and most of the time, I think Lancaster could solve the case solo in half the time. But, then we wouldn't have the series be about the two of them. Perhaps Swain could write one more in which Lancaster finally has had enough of her and tells her to have a good life, place her FBI badge where the sun don't shine, and begin a solo career, maybe working with some of his shadowy SEAL team buddies to tackle crime solving in cases that the law has its hands tied. Yeah, I know it's been done before (hello Jack Reacher), but hey, it's a thought.
I like this author, but these are not the best of his writing; good enough for a read, but his real strength still resides with his Tony Valentine and Billy Cunningham series respectively.
Generally speaking, the plots are fine, the pacing is brisk, and Swain makes good use of his knowledge of Florida as he delivers a sense of place in each novel.
What holds me back from truly loving these, I suppose, has to do with the often artificial feel that inhabits the relationship and dialogue between Daniels and Lancaster. Daniels in particular can become very grating as she appears one minute to be over-bearing and aggressive to a fault, while the next moment brings her to relying heavily on Jon's steady-as-a-rock persona as she faces some melt down within her psyche. She often bludgeons people with her FBI credentials, throwing her weight around with local cops like someone who is simply overcompensating for immense insecurities. And her behavior with Lancaster is often more reminiscent of a junior high school girl who threatens to "never talk to you again" if you don't do as she wishes, than it is of a successful federal agent.
See? This is where I get bogged down and drop my rating-- it's just that this pair seems incredibly unlikely to me, and most of the time, I think Lancaster could solve the case solo in half the time. But, then we wouldn't have the series be about the two of them. Perhaps Swain could write one more in which Lancaster finally has had enough of her and tells her to have a good life, place her FBI badge where the sun don't shine, and begin a solo career, maybe working with some of his shadowy SEAL team buddies to tackle crime solving in cases that the law has its hands tied. Yeah, I know it's been done before (hello Jack Reacher), but hey, it's a thought.
I like this author, but these are not the best of his writing; good enough for a read, but his real strength still resides with his Tony Valentine and Billy Cunningham series respectively.
September 5, 2020
Really Shows Off Swains Writing Chops
Bad News Travels is the third book in the Lancaster & Daniels series and has the duo getting a bit more settled working together. But, there’s still some drama since they’re still learning each other and what their relationship means both professionally and emotionally.
The story in this one took lots of twists and turns. At one point, I was only a couple of hours into it and I thought they had it completely buttoned up. I was wrong of course, with more than five hours in the audiobook left – things were just getting started. Swain was able to keep up a relentless pace and continue throwing curveballs at the reader and at Lancaster and Daniels as they tried to put the multiple different theories into one solution.
I like the combination of the “gut-feeling” of Lancaster and the “bureau thoroughness” that Daniels brings. It’s a nice contrast and definitely makes the story interesting (especially when they butt heads). It makes these stories both fun and interesting to read while also making them fly by.
Overall, I thought that Bad News Travels really showed off Swain’s writing chops. He was able to write a story that jumped off the page, felt real, and also kept me guessing. You can’t ask for much more out of a story.
Bad News Travels is the third book in the Lancaster & Daniels series and has the duo getting a bit more settled working together. But, there’s still some drama since they’re still learning each other and what their relationship means both professionally and emotionally.
The story in this one took lots of twists and turns. At one point, I was only a couple of hours into it and I thought they had it completely buttoned up. I was wrong of course, with more than five hours in the audiobook left – things were just getting started. Swain was able to keep up a relentless pace and continue throwing curveballs at the reader and at Lancaster and Daniels as they tried to put the multiple different theories into one solution.
I like the combination of the “gut-feeling” of Lancaster and the “bureau thoroughness” that Daniels brings. It’s a nice contrast and definitely makes the story interesting (especially when they butt heads). It makes these stories both fun and interesting to read while also making them fly by.
Overall, I thought that Bad News Travels really showed off Swain’s writing chops. He was able to write a story that jumped off the page, felt real, and also kept me guessing. You can’t ask for much more out of a story.
August 7, 2020
Well. This is the 3rd Lancaster & Daniels book so I won't be reading them in order but I will be reading #1 and #2 for certain! This was a great book! I loved reading about St. Augustine, FL because I live there and have since 1985. I also have already printed out my James Swan books in order so that I can buy them beginning from the beginning! That is how I like to read good authors! James Swan knows how to write an interesting #3 even though you haven't read #1 & #2 and can still go back and read those! I have to tell you, since 2003 Steve & I have been going to South Beach Grill. We loved it until Tony left, came back then left again. It was sold to a new older and needs a lot of help. I could walk in my mind the same walks from the Fort to Zorayda Castle (that is what we call Villa Zorayda Museum). I would think Martin lived near the Lighthouse because of the route they drove over the Bridge of Lions! Yes, I love living in St. Augustine. So many memories! My sister-in-law was married at Memorial Presbyterian Church. If you look at it from the sky it is shaped like a cross. I loved the way this book ended but it was a total surprise! Thanks for this book!
August 9, 2020
Recommend to crime fiction readers who like intricate storylines
Intriguing crime fiction with a police procedural about a father’s suicide as its backbone. Numerous subplots emanate from the basic but solid backbone, adding several complex yet interrelated mysteries and personal stories. The protagonists—FBI agent Beth Daniels and ex-Seal/ex-cop named Jon Lancaster—think, dissemble, cajole, fight, and shoot their way through a maze of clues, not to mention bad guys/gals.
Author James Swain has draped a lot onto the backbone, and happily, the subplots are organic to the main storyline. There are several good twists, plus one sort of cheesy (but expected) last twist. “Bad News Travels” has murder, blackmail, sexcapades, home invasion, pornography, brutal Russian mobsters, high tech electronic gear, trafficked women, prostitution, some drugs, the Latin Kings, police corruption, and mummified hands. I expected NSFW language, and yes, there are F-words but many more instances of gods’ name in vain.
Intriguing crime fiction with a police procedural about a father’s suicide as its backbone. Numerous subplots emanate from the basic but solid backbone, adding several complex yet interrelated mysteries and personal stories. The protagonists—FBI agent Beth Daniels and ex-Seal/ex-cop named Jon Lancaster—think, dissemble, cajole, fight, and shoot their way through a maze of clues, not to mention bad guys/gals.
Author James Swain has draped a lot onto the backbone, and happily, the subplots are organic to the main storyline. There are several good twists, plus one sort of cheesy (but expected) last twist. “Bad News Travels” has murder, blackmail, sexcapades, home invasion, pornography, brutal Russian mobsters, high tech electronic gear, trafficked women, prostitution, some drugs, the Latin Kings, police corruption, and mummified hands. I expected NSFW language, and yes, there are F-words but many more instances of gods’ name in vain.
April 11, 2021
When i finished this book, I actually closed it and said, "Damn..that was a good book!"(excuse the language)
Jon has a medical condition which causes him to have the appearance of a paunch belly (but it's pure muscle not fat ). It's an unusual character detail which I appreciate. He's retired but is supporting his girlfriend Beth upon the death of her father. As trained FBI agents, their suspicions are aroused & they investigate. Another personal case for them.
The writer does a good job of building up suspense through the narrative of the mystery. It moves at a quick pace w/short chapters which make it an easy read.
To be honest, I started it on my lunch break at work but I struggled found it hard to put down. (darn being an adult & having to actually work for a living.😁)
I greedily dug back into it after work.
This is an example of a series that gets better with each book.
FYI: while you're not completely lost, you can read this book as a stand-alone but it is best to do the series in order.
Jon has a medical condition which causes him to have the appearance of a paunch belly (but it's pure muscle not fat ). It's an unusual character detail which I appreciate. He's retired but is supporting his girlfriend Beth upon the death of her father. As trained FBI agents, their suspicions are aroused & they investigate. Another personal case for them.
The writer does a good job of building up suspense through the narrative of the mystery. It moves at a quick pace w/short chapters which make it an easy read.
To be honest, I started it on my lunch break at work but I struggled found it hard to put down. (darn being an adult & having to actually work for a living.😁)
I greedily dug back into it after work.
This is an example of a series that gets better with each book.
FYI: while you're not completely lost, you can read this book as a stand-alone but it is best to do the series in order.
September 20, 2020
This is my first book by this author. For me it was between 3 and 4 stars. The overall plot was 4 stars and I initially enjoyed the writing style of the author. However, somewhere in the middle of the book some of the dialogue and personal relationship situations between Lancaster and Daniels seemed unrealistic and contrived. Maybe it's because I haven't read the two prior books but for me something was awkward with the main characters and the interaction between each other.
I also found the premise of the FBI allowing an agent to work a case involving the death of the agent's own family member unrealistic. There were a few other places where the logic was similarly off and didn't work for me. The ending has a slight twist which is another place where the logic seemed off kilter to me. I would have preferred a more detailed conclusion but I guess maybe the next book can pick up where this one stopped.
I also found the premise of the FBI allowing an agent to work a case involving the death of the agent's own family member unrealistic. There were a few other places where the logic was similarly off and didn't work for me. The ending has a slight twist which is another place where the logic seemed off kilter to me. I would have preferred a more detailed conclusion but I guess maybe the next book can pick up where this one stopped.
August 1, 2020
Beth Daniels and John Lancaster discover that there's a lot - a lot- she didn't know about her father Martin, who she thought was a mild manner physician. They're in town for his funeral; neither of them believe the story they're told about his death but they don't know what's about to come. Who are the Russians, why did he have a panic room, what's the deal with his finances? Told alternately by the two of them, this unwinds a tale with Russians, trafficking, narcos, corruption and so on. Beth and John are terrific, as is Beth's sister Melanie. I'd not read this series before and found this fine as a standalone. The themes might seem familiar but Swain is a good storyteller and has added the twist of the incongruity of Martin's activities. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. An entertaining read.
December 14, 2020
Beth heads to Saint Augustine, Florida, for the funeral of her father, she’ll need more than the emotional support of her boyfriend, retired detective Jon Lancaster. She’ll need his gut instinct for solving a mystery.
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life
No sooner do they arrive than suspicions are aroused. There’s the pair of Russians who seem to be watching every move the family makes. A final, cryptic phone call Martin Daniels made to his granddaughter. Strange blood evidence on his estate. More than $1 million missing from Martin’s account. And his cell phone, wiped clean, along with clues to a double life. To Beth, it’s disturbingly clear: the man she loved was a stranger.
As she and Jon delve into Martin’s past, they have no idea where the secrets will take them. Or how dangerous it will be to expose the conspiracies, the cover-ups, and the terrible truths of Martin’s life
August 22, 2020
I've read several of James Swain's books, including the two that precede Bad News Travels in the Daniels and Lancaster series. They've all been good, escapist fun -- stories that move quickly and don't require a lot of the reader. Perfect summer fare!
Lancaster is an ex-Navy Seal and retired cop who, as a private investigator, still has a lot of contacts at seemingly all levels of officialdom. Daniels is your standard badass-woman FBI agent, and they're an item, so you've have multiple conflicts of interest built right in.
I liked the plot in this one, especially the big twist at the end. I like Daniels' precocious niece, who (perhaps unrealistically) inserts herself into their cases and hits the spot time after time.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance readers copy.
Lancaster is an ex-Navy Seal and retired cop who, as a private investigator, still has a lot of contacts at seemingly all levels of officialdom. Daniels is your standard badass-woman FBI agent, and they're an item, so you've have multiple conflicts of interest built right in.
I liked the plot in this one, especially the big twist at the end. I like Daniels' precocious niece, who (perhaps unrealistically) inserts herself into their cases and hits the spot time after time.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advance readers copy.
June 17, 2020
This is the third book in the Lancaster and Daniels books. This new series is particularly good. Thank you, Net Galley, for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Jon Lancaster is with Beth Daniels as she buries her father who committed suicide. Everything is suspicious. They investigate and uncover dirty dealings.
Jon is particularly qualified to help investigate, a former seal, retired police detective who has a wide network to help him.
I love the story unfolds and we have the different point of views of both Jon Lancaster and Beth Daniels. The writing flows and is a good read
I have read all of James Swain’s books. Enjoyed his Jack Carpenter and Valentine series.
Jon Lancaster is with Beth Daniels as she buries her father who committed suicide. Everything is suspicious. They investigate and uncover dirty dealings.
Jon is particularly qualified to help investigate, a former seal, retired police detective who has a wide network to help him.
I love the story unfolds and we have the different point of views of both Jon Lancaster and Beth Daniels. The writing flows and is a good read
I have read all of James Swain’s books. Enjoyed his Jack Carpenter and Valentine series.
August 8, 2020
I've really enjoyed this series and hope it continues. It's fast-paced, chalk full of adventure and bad-assery, and the characters are just plain fun to follow.
This third book follows our pot-bellied PI and his lady love FBI agent on another wild ride, this one hitting once again close to home for Agent Daniels.
The audiobook was also another excellent listen, and I really like this narrator. He does a great job voicing Lancaster, capturing that rebellious attitude and that sort of fearless, in your face way he has about everything, but also has distinctive voices for the other characters as well.
Keep these coming! I hope there's more!
This third book follows our pot-bellied PI and his lady love FBI agent on another wild ride, this one hitting once again close to home for Agent Daniels.
The audiobook was also another excellent listen, and I really like this narrator. He does a great job voicing Lancaster, capturing that rebellious attitude and that sort of fearless, in your face way he has about everything, but also has distinctive voices for the other characters as well.
Keep these coming! I hope there's more!
August 10, 2020
Interesting, a tad outlandish as the FBI or any other credible law enforcement agency would not allow level of involvement by a “civilian” regardless of past history — a few too many shootings/killings attributed to Lancaster without more repercussions (PI status not counting), and while entertaining, extensive involvement of high school niece was ridiculous and as noted, incredibly unsafe. The FBI would’ve had that info easily at hand, although lines blurred as this was Daniels private saga, FBI was very involved. Series has potential but a better hold on what’s credible going forward would make series more interesting and worthwhile reading.
August 11, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley, Thomas and Mercer and James Swain for this review copy.
This is a story about an FBI agent trying to uncover the reason for her father's suicide alongside an ex Navy Seal. I li
ked the cast of characters and I thought the plot did well to drive you to conclusions and then change direction suddenly.
Sometimes I felt as though the answers came quickly to them, and they were able to progress the case with few slip ups, but this does make sense given their training and rankings.
This is my first from this series and this is the third in the series. I don't feel as though this impacted my enjoyment of the book.
This is a story about an FBI agent trying to uncover the reason for her father's suicide alongside an ex Navy Seal. I li
ked the cast of characters and I thought the plot did well to drive you to conclusions and then change direction suddenly.
Sometimes I felt as though the answers came quickly to them, and they were able to progress the case with few slip ups, but this does make sense given their training and rankings.
This is my first from this series and this is the third in the series. I don't feel as though this impacted my enjoyment of the book.
June 29, 2021
I read for entertainment and while I enjoy a great PI hero, I also want the sidekick to be likable and Beth just isn't that character in this book. I was uncertain in the second book of this series, but even though she was grieving and the reader will allow for missteps and even iffy judgment, Beth really borders on unlikeable. Her teenage niece is a better sidekick, actually. Felt a lot of author intrusion in the narrative surrounding the SJSO, SAPD, and some other topics that I found irrelevant to the plot and region - which is home to me now for nearly 20 years. I enjoyed the first two in the series - Swain writes well - but this one just wasn't a hit for me.
March 11, 2025
Third book of the Jon Lancaster/Beth Daniels series and they usually tackle a kidnapping but this time it's a suicide and not only that - it's Beth's father. Lancaster is a former cop and Navy seal and now works around and outside the law. Beth is an FBI agent trying to follow the rules but her heart allows her to work Jon's way to solve this case since it concerns her father's death. Lots of twists and turns through sex trafficking and Russian gangsters and dirty cops. The ending is a surprise that I didn't see coming. Swain's books are easy, entertaining reads, action packed and thoughtful in the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and highly recommend it along with his other books.
June 16, 2020
FBI agent Beth Daniela and her boyfriend, former cop and ex-Seal Jon Lancaster, retire in their third adventure, which begins at the funeral of Beth's father, whose suicide shocked his friends and family. But something about the circumstances triggers their suspicions. and when the chief of police lies to them and attempts to stonewall their investigation, the game's afoot. It leads to sex trafficking, blackmail, Russian monsters, mayhem and murder. A mostly predictable plot, short on suspense but nicely posed against the picturesque charm of St. Augustine
August 31, 2020
This is the third in this series. I had not read the prior books and felt it stood alone. Lancaster and Daniels are a good pair. She is law abiding FBI and he is retired cop that does not follow rules. His getting away with breaking rules does cause some suspension of belief. Daniels dad killed himself and they investigate. It’s a fun book though the ending pulled together rather quickly. But overall an enjoyable easy read
I was given an advance copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I was given an advance copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 31, 2020
This is the third in this series. I had not read the prior books and felt it stood alone. Lancaster and Daniels are a good pair. She is law abiding FBI and he is retired cop that does not follow rules. His getting away with breaking rules does cause some suspension of belief. Daniels dad killed himself and they investigate. It’s a fun book though the ending pulled together rather quickly. But overall an enjoyable easy read
I was given an advance copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I was given an advance copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 27, 2022
Bad News Travels....John Lancaster at his best
Another enjoyable and unpredictable book by author James Swain. The dynamic duo of Lancaster and Daniel gives their investigations a good give and take between Daniels letter of the law per the FBI and the rogue 'take no prisoners' of ex-seal, ex-cop Lancaster. I enjoyed this book as I have Swain's other book. If you enjoy audible books, check-out Patrick Lawlor entertaining portrayal of the various characters in Bad News Travels...
Another enjoyable and unpredictable book by author James Swain. The dynamic duo of Lancaster and Daniel gives their investigations a good give and take between Daniels letter of the law per the FBI and the rogue 'take no prisoners' of ex-seal, ex-cop Lancaster. I enjoyed this book as I have Swain's other book. If you enjoy audible books, check-out Patrick Lawlor entertaining portrayal of the various characters in Bad News Travels...
August 21, 2020
Great mystery/thriller. Enjoyed guessing the outcome of the plot. It's refreshing to have the hero be physically atypical of the common almost perfect male specimen that are typical in most books. Jon Lancaster is physically no James Bond . His allure is his honesty and confidence . While Daniel's a straight arrow , Lancster is a bender of rules. This makes for interesting reading. Looking forward to more in this series.
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