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Maggie Novak #3
The Other Child
A child's life hangs in the balance . . .
When a prominent judge is found stabbed to death on Valentine's weekend in what appears to be a crime of passion, homicide detective Maggie Novak knows she has her work cut out for her.
Bobby Russell is everybody's favorite judge, and at first Maggie is hard-pressed to find anyone with anything bad to say about him, let alone someone harboring a hatred so deep that they will kill him over it. But as she peels back the layers of his life, and the eyewitness to his murder goes missing, Maggie is faced with the very real prospect that beneath the judge's perfect surface deadly undercurrents lurk.
To uncover the truth, Maggie must first expose the judge's darkest secret, one that reaches deep inside his private life and into the death of his daughter.
The race is on to find the star witness and to catch the killer. But will the scales of justice tip in Maggie's favor?
Other titles by Keith Houghton -
The Gabe Quinn Thrillers
KILLING HOPE
CROSSING LINES
TAKING LIBERTY
CHASING FAME
Maggie Novak Thriller Series
DON'T EVEN BREATHE
A PLACE CALLED FEAR
THE OTHER CHILD
Stand-alone Psychological Thrillers
CRASH
BEFORE YOU LEAP
NO COMING BACK
More information at - keithhoughton.com
When a prominent judge is found stabbed to death on Valentine's weekend in what appears to be a crime of passion, homicide detective Maggie Novak knows she has her work cut out for her.
Bobby Russell is everybody's favorite judge, and at first Maggie is hard-pressed to find anyone with anything bad to say about him, let alone someone harboring a hatred so deep that they will kill him over it. But as she peels back the layers of his life, and the eyewitness to his murder goes missing, Maggie is faced with the very real prospect that beneath the judge's perfect surface deadly undercurrents lurk.
To uncover the truth, Maggie must first expose the judge's darkest secret, one that reaches deep inside his private life and into the death of his daughter.
The race is on to find the star witness and to catch the killer. But will the scales of justice tip in Maggie's favor?
Other titles by Keith Houghton -
The Gabe Quinn Thrillers
KILLING HOPE
CROSSING LINES
TAKING LIBERTY
CHASING FAME
Maggie Novak Thriller Series
DON'T EVEN BREATHE
A PLACE CALLED FEAR
THE OTHER CHILD
Stand-alone Psychological Thrillers
CRASH
BEFORE YOU LEAP
NO COMING BACK
More information at - keithhoughton.com
- GenresMysteryCrimeProcedural
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2020
684 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Keith Houghton
21 books277 followersMILLION SELLING AUTHOR of the Kindle bestselling Gabe Quinn Thriller Series and the Maggie Novak Thrillers, including Kindle Store #1 books KILLING HOPE and DON'T EVEN BREATHE, as well as psychological standalone thrillers CRASH, NO COMING BACK and BEFORE YOU LEAP - roller-coaster reads with totally unexpected twists and turns - published by Thomas & Mercer.
More than ONE MILLION Crime Thrillers Sold.
100,000+ Audiobooks Sold on Amazon and Audible.
12,000+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five-Star Reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, and Audible.
13 Kindle Store Number Ones and more than 140 individual category bestsellers.
Latest novel TOLEDO BEND is out NOW!
Visit keithhoughton.com and join his no-spam Murder Club list to qualify for exclusive reader competitions, such as free advance copies, signed paperbacks, and Your Name As A Character in a future novel.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 10, 2020
This was another good book in the series was it the best one? I am not sure lol they all fall into the same grade range 3.4. It was a decent story and it moved at a pretty good clip. I liked most of the characters in the book and the dialogue was not bad. At times however the main character Maggie grates on me and so does her relationship-Steve grates on me. It is a good series but I will never love it. It was a good decent story but it was far fetched at some points. I am not sure what it is but something is missing in the series maybe the main character is close to perfect on things and great reflexes, maybe in some ways I have been here an done it with other like books.. I do say however the book is worth giving a spin and the series is decent. There is a good chance I will read the next book in the series when it comes out but no rush..
October 19, 2020
My Musings
Wow, another thrilling ride from the first page to the last. I love Maggie Novak, Loomis. They Re great crime fighting team. Glad I found this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
Wow, another thrilling ride from the first page to the last. I love Maggie Novak, Loomis. They Re great crime fighting team. Glad I found this book and can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
September 17, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed the 3rd book in this series. I can hardly wait for number 4. Well done to the author.
June 27, 2020
Couldn’t Put This Book Down!
Keith Houghton once again brings the saucy detective Maggie Novak to life in his latest book, The Other Child. She is every bit a heroine as we read about her near drowning exploits, brushes with death and other crazy adventures — all with modesty and determination to catch the killer of a beloved Judge in a small town community.
But this is no straightforward murder and things aren’t what they seem as this investigation progresses and aspects of the inquiry start to get twisted. This story peels back details, like the layers of an onion and the twists keep coming.
As with all Keith Houghton’s books, I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great suspense story with believable characters, fantastic dialogue and twists that can’t be predicted.
This is the best book I’ve read of 2020 and I have a feeling it’s going to remain at my #1 spot for this year.
Keith Houghton once again brings the saucy detective Maggie Novak to life in his latest book, The Other Child. She is every bit a heroine as we read about her near drowning exploits, brushes with death and other crazy adventures — all with modesty and determination to catch the killer of a beloved Judge in a small town community.
But this is no straightforward murder and things aren’t what they seem as this investigation progresses and aspects of the inquiry start to get twisted. This story peels back details, like the layers of an onion and the twists keep coming.
As with all Keith Houghton’s books, I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great suspense story with believable characters, fantastic dialogue and twists that can’t be predicted.
This is the best book I’ve read of 2020 and I have a feeling it’s going to remain at my #1 spot for this year.
April 4, 2022
Maggie Novak is yet on another case. A judge was found murdered and it’s up to her and the deathtectives to find out who did it… and who the mysterious child is that was left at the scene.
The plot was interesting just like it’s other predecessors, but i listened to this on audible and it fell flat for me there. The first two books were done by a different narrator and I think also by a different publisher… and you could tell. First, it’s also super awkward when the main narrator changes mid series because you’ve grown to associate a specific voice of a narrator to that of the main character. Maggie sounded about ten years older in the third book while the plot takes place about 6 weeks after book 2. Second, this also goes into the quality of the production. Sometimes you could hear extra noises in the background of the narration which is something I’ve never experienced before, and it was distracting.
The plot was interesting just like it’s other predecessors, but i listened to this on audible and it fell flat for me there. The first two books were done by a different narrator and I think also by a different publisher… and you could tell. First, it’s also super awkward when the main narrator changes mid series because you’ve grown to associate a specific voice of a narrator to that of the main character. Maggie sounded about ten years older in the third book while the plot takes place about 6 weeks after book 2. Second, this also goes into the quality of the production. Sometimes you could hear extra noises in the background of the narration which is something I’ve never experienced before, and it was distracting.
October 31, 2021
A prominent Florida judge get stabbed in his mansion. A whodunit-and-why story but not a straightforward one.The synopsis was different with a twisted compelling mystery.
Helen Gordon does a great job narrating what can be qualified as a fast paced movie script, with tons of irrelevant details and a female main character that oscillate between brilliant and clueless.
If you’re not too concerned a reader, it is a great book.If details bog you down you might get frustrated by the unnecessary conversations blabbing not advancing the plot.
The perpetrator is easily identified from Chapter 3 on, the ‘why’ keeps the reader engaged to the end of the story.
This book is the third installment of the Maggie Novak series. It is a standalone that can be read independently.
Helen Gordon does a great job narrating what can be qualified as a fast paced movie script, with tons of irrelevant details and a female main character that oscillate between brilliant and clueless.
If you’re not too concerned a reader, it is a great book.If details bog you down you might get frustrated by the unnecessary conversations blabbing not advancing the plot.
The perpetrator is easily identified from Chapter 3 on, the ‘why’ keeps the reader engaged to the end of the story.
This book is the third installment of the Maggie Novak series. It is a standalone that can be read independently.
April 10, 2022
Nice and twisty, just the way I like them. Unlike the last book, the reveal didn't come as much of a surprise to me. I figured out who was behind some of this before the character revealed their hand, and I also knew who killed the judge about halfway through (and I love that the final solution was more complex than a single point or a single reason). I didn't have it pegged from the introduction of the character, however, and I'm surprised I wasn't even the least bit suspicious. It seemed, however, like there was a legitimate reason for the character's existence in the narrative without that so I never questioned why the author made a bigger point of it than was strictly necessary until later. I love a book that makes me go back and do this kind of analysis in my head later.
July 8, 2020
Another Page Turner
I absolutely love this series. I love how the author actually connects the books together and builds upon the series. The beginning of the book is draws you in and starts you on your quest to find the killer. I enjoyed the twists and turns that the book had to offer. The only thing that I did not care for the generalized mental illness comments. I know the facts and statistics I just did not like the comment about "individuals with mental illnesses committing violent crimes without motives." Overall it was a great book and I cannot wait to read the next one and see what life has is store for Maggie Novak.
I absolutely love this series. I love how the author actually connects the books together and builds upon the series. The beginning of the book is draws you in and starts you on your quest to find the killer. I enjoyed the twists and turns that the book had to offer. The only thing that I did not care for the generalized mental illness comments. I know the facts and statistics I just did not like the comment about "individuals with mental illnesses committing violent crimes without motives." Overall it was a great book and I cannot wait to read the next one and see what life has is store for Maggie Novak.
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February 13, 2021Fantastic story that showcases Detective Maggie Novak...
And maybe one of Mr. Houston's best! Since I haven't read them all yet, the jury is still out. This starts with the shocker of the death of a prominent judge found in the nude on the floor in his home, with a new child in the room. Maggie becomes the primary investigator of his death, who finds this child previously unknown to Maggie, which is odd because no one knew of this "other" child. So who killed the well known judge and who is the child? The answers to these questions, and others leads Maggie to a wild ride that answers these questions and more, that will keep you page turning till the very end!
And maybe one of Mr. Houston's best! Since I haven't read them all yet, the jury is still out. This starts with the shocker of the death of a prominent judge found in the nude on the floor in his home, with a new child in the room. Maggie becomes the primary investigator of his death, who finds this child previously unknown to Maggie, which is odd because no one knew of this "other" child. So who killed the well known judge and who is the child? The answers to these questions, and others leads Maggie to a wild ride that answers these questions and more, that will keep you page turning till the very end!
July 5, 2020
Another great read!
I read this book in two days as I just couldn't put it down! Good page turner, written about familiar characters, with a couple of new additions to the Novak team!
I was guessing that the killer was one of the other characters, how wrong was i? Never saw the twist at the end coming either. Can't wait for Maggie's next case, and to find out how she truly feels about her fiancé and if they will ever make it down the aisle!!!
Keep them coming Keith! x
I read this book in two days as I just couldn't put it down! Good page turner, written about familiar characters, with a couple of new additions to the Novak team!
I was guessing that the killer was one of the other characters, how wrong was i? Never saw the twist at the end coming either. Can't wait for Maggie's next case, and to find out how she truly feels about her fiancé and if they will ever make it down the aisle!!!
Keep them coming Keith! x
February 3, 2026
A quick, enjoyable crime thriller with a slightly rushed ending.
I know it wasn't meant to, but the stuff trying to make the new detective seem really menacing actually made me laugh, because it was so random and over the top? Please never mention it again, that would actually send me.
Otherwise, decent. Didn't see the ending coming, Maggie is a competent detective (but why is she still with her drip of a fiance that she doesn't seem to like?). 6.5/10
I know it wasn't meant to, but the stuff trying to make the new detective seem really menacing actually made me laugh, because it was so random and over the top? Please never mention it again, that would actually send me.
Otherwise, decent. Didn't see the ending coming, Maggie is a competent detective (but why is she still with her drip of a fiance that she doesn't seem to like?). 6.5/10
July 5, 2020
Wow this takes the Maggie Novak series to another level couldn't put it down once i started reading and if you have not read the first 2 in the series read them first if possible before "The Other Child"
Keith it is great to see you enjoying your craft and keeping the readers hanging out for more, can't wait for the next installment
Tony Rogers
Keith it is great to see you enjoying your craft and keeping the readers hanging out for more, can't wait for the next installment
Tony Rogers
September 11, 2020
Another brilliant installment to the Maggie Novak series.
This did not disappoint. I have now read the 3 books in the series and I'm looking forward to number 4. Intriguing from the beginning to end. Short summary , a prominent judge is found murdered with a shocking and confusing discovery at the scene.
This did not disappoint. I have now read the 3 books in the series and I'm looking forward to number 4. Intriguing from the beginning to end. Short summary , a prominent judge is found murdered with a shocking and confusing discovery at the scene.
February 6, 2021
Book 3 of Keith Houghton's Maggie Novak series is a mostly fast-paced mystery thriller. In this one, Orlando Sheriff Detective Maggie & her partner investigate the murder of a judge. Although sometimes a bit cliché & formulaic, Houghton writes easy reading & entertaining stories with solid character development.
July 1, 2020
The Other Child
This is a very good thriller. This is one book you don't one to put down. This book keeps you in suspense until the very end. I highly recommend this book and this series.
This is a very good thriller. This is one book you don't one to put down. This book keeps you in suspense until the very end. I highly recommend this book and this series.
July 12, 2020
Another great read
I love the Maggie Novak series! Absolutely one of the U st series I've read. Keith writes to draw you in and Maggie's character does just that. Read this series and you'll discover how you might feel as a character of a novel.
I love the Maggie Novak series! Absolutely one of the U st series I've read. Keith writes to draw you in and Maggie's character does just that. Read this series and you'll discover how you might feel as a character of a novel.
July 14, 2020
Really liked the first two thirds of the book. Pretty fast paced and suspenseful. But the last third really slowed down, and it was more like it was being narrated. The story changed so much, it could have been a different book.
August 22, 2021
This was just amazing - the story line was brilliant - love the two endings (you will know what I mean) the narration was brilliant.
I need to find more from this author and narrator
This is a must listen, so deserves to be so better known in the charts etc.
Edit Review
I need to find more from this author and narrator
This is a must listen, so deserves to be so better known in the charts etc.
Edit Review
September 18, 2021
Interesting Mystery
Keith's storylines are always filled with lots of twists and turns leading the reader to question the suspects available. This story has a couple of really strange developments that will keep you reading in the pursuit of who did it!
Keith's storylines are always filled with lots of twists and turns leading the reader to question the suspects available. This story has a couple of really strange developments that will keep you reading in the pursuit of who did it!
June 17, 2022
another great page turner!
I read this in less than 24 hours and couldn’t stop thinking about it as I kept waiting to finish it! Love the series and each time I think the book I just finished was my fave! This one was no different!
I read this in less than 24 hours and couldn’t stop thinking about it as I kept waiting to finish it! Love the series and each time I think the book I just finished was my fave! This one was no different!
September 3, 2023
I liked this book….however I am only giving it 3 stars due to Steve’s 8pm dinner…..what? No mention of Steve at all at the end. Perhaps she doesn’t have it in her to share a life….give the ring back. Dynamic storyline ending
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2020
Interesting, who and why are the important issue...
June 29, 2020
This was an excellent book, very entertaining. I really liked Maggie and the plot kept me eagerly turning the pages to see what happens next. Definitely recommend this one.
July 11, 2020
Phenomenally written
This whole series is fantastic if you like mysteries/thrillers! I can’t wait for the next book. Maggie Novak is a great character!
This whole series is fantastic if you like mysteries/thrillers! I can’t wait for the next book. Maggie Novak is a great character!
July 16, 2020
Not my favorite
This is my least favorite of the Maggie Novak series. Hopefully the next one is better. A bit disappointed with this story line.
This is my least favorite of the Maggie Novak series. Hopefully the next one is better. A bit disappointed with this story line.
July 20, 2020
Read in one sitting!
I loved this third installment of the Maggie Novak series. I read it in one sitting. It had so many twists and turns and I can’t wait for the next book!
I loved this third installment of the Maggie Novak series. I read it in one sitting. It had so many twists and turns and I can’t wait for the next book!
August 9, 2020
Fast becoming one of my favourite series. A twisty tale with lots of surprises.
September 2, 2020
Good story
It ended rather abruptly but on a good foot. Wonder how her partner is recovering and how Steve dealt with yet another missed dinner, but otherwise it was a good read.
It ended rather abruptly but on a good foot. Wonder how her partner is recovering and how Steve dealt with yet another missed dinner, but otherwise it was a good read.
September 13, 2020
Another great book. I can't wait for the next Maggie Novak and Gabe Quinn books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews