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The Jack Ryder Mysteries #1
The Hidden Hand of Death
It is early in 1942. The war with Germany has just begun. Jack Ryder, who calls himself a fixer rather than a detective, wanders the darkest nights to his office in a back booth at an all-night diner. Ryder is famous for killing members of the mob who have crossed their bosses by hurting innocent people. Ryder also helps ordinary people in trouble.
An enemy—a homicide detective—comes to hire Ryder to find the detective’s missing sister. Ryder also gets involved in going up against some Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
An enemy—a homicide detective—comes to hire Ryder to find the detective’s missing sister. Ryder also gets involved in going up against some Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2020
134 people are currently reading
122 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
May 18, 2020
Jack Ryder, fixer, was as the title said. He helped people who needed helping, running his office from the rear of a nearby diner. Gertie worked in the diner and was Ryder’s assistant, taking messages for him and other things Ryder needed. He also killed those who needed removing from society – criminals who hurt the innocent. Ryder had many enemies, but he also had a reputation. With the timing – early 1942 – when the Americans had just joined the war, Ryder was on the side of the oppressed. He had a job to do and he would do it..
The Hidden Hand of Death is the first in the Jack Ryder Mysteries by Lawrence J. Epstein and it’s not often we have a MC who’s a criminal, working with both good and bad guys. But he plays the part well, has the required terrible past, but he doesn’t drink to drown his sorrows. He’s kind and caring, but cold and calculating. I quite enjoyed The Hidden Hand of Death and will look to book 2 in the series. Recommended.
The Hidden Hand of Death is the first in the Jack Ryder Mysteries by Lawrence J. Epstein and it’s not often we have a MC who’s a criminal, working with both good and bad guys. But he plays the part well, has the required terrible past, but he doesn’t drink to drown his sorrows. He’s kind and caring, but cold and calculating. I quite enjoyed The Hidden Hand of Death and will look to book 2 in the series. Recommended.
April 18, 2020
Author Lawrence J. Epstein weaves a gripping Historical Crime Thriller with intriguing twists and turns that will easily captivate the reader’s attention from the beginning. The author paints a dramatic and riveting tale of intrigue and suspense in a very vivid and convincing way. In addition, the characters are drawn with great credibility and conviction. It’s a quick fast-paced novel that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last.
This was a nice quick read that was just enough to get me hooked, and it bares all the hallmarks of making a great series. Highly recommended.
This was a nice quick read that was just enough to get me hooked, and it bares all the hallmarks of making a great series. Highly recommended.
June 7, 2020
I was not sure how to introduce this book, I started and erased a few generic versions and then realized that mentioning that process alone might work as an opener. The story here is so packed with events that it felt like it moved at breakneck speed (which it probably did). We have a world-weary and mildly grieving hitman whose varying shades are shown to us through his actions.
Immediately after the initial introduction, Ryder has a lot asked from him. He is almost treated as a consulting detective while he actively works to dispel that illusion to those who approach him (not always successfully). In the span of a few days, he is told to kill a few people. He doesn't kill them but instead does others in, saves a few innocent people and provides helpful counsel. He has a two-part backstory, one is explored in this instalment, and maybe the next books might tackle the bigger mystery. As mentioned earlier, it is a fast-paced book with a sort of anti-hero and lots of action. The killing becomes a little repetitive, but it is in keeping with the storyline, so I could keep going. The writing was simple and straightforward. I will read the next one if I get the chance.
Immediately after the initial introduction, Ryder has a lot asked from him. He is almost treated as a consulting detective while he actively works to dispel that illusion to those who approach him (not always successfully). In the span of a few days, he is told to kill a few people. He doesn't kill them but instead does others in, saves a few innocent people and provides helpful counsel. He has a two-part backstory, one is explored in this instalment, and maybe the next books might tackle the bigger mystery. As mentioned earlier, it is a fast-paced book with a sort of anti-hero and lots of action. The killing becomes a little repetitive, but it is in keeping with the storyline, so I could keep going. The writing was simple and straightforward. I will read the next one if I get the chance.
June 1, 2020
5/18/1942, NYC, NY. Times Square. Barbara wanted to buy a bag of candy for her daughter.
Jack Ryder (fixer, professional killer, former Detective Homicide) was glad to help.
Everett Remington hired Jack to find his wife’s sister Amy Pascal (Queens 3rd grade teacher).
Everett had set Jack up.
Jack made sure he wouldn’t be doing anything every again.
1942, WWII Nazi Germany. Ms. Helga Levin needed Jack to go Sobibor concentration camp on the
Poland borders to find out if Isaac (Jewish, Helga’s brother) is still alive.
Joe Bendix was tailing Jack.
Hospital room # 356. Jack went to pay Guy Roarke (former jail bird) a visit.
Brooklyn, NY. Jack was looking for Jimmy “Knuckles” Bosco & Norah London (broad).
Brownsville, Brooklyn, NYC. The Midnight Rose Candy Store (Murder Inc. headquarters). Rosie Gold (60+) told Jack what he needed to know.
Next stop Three Crowns Hotel (Crown Heights NYC borough of Brooklyn, NYC). Jack met Knuckles.
78th St. Flushing, Queens, NYC apartments (Chinatown). Jack met Norah.
Ryder introduced himself & Gloria (asst.) to Mr. Gerald Miles (dealership owner).
Mr. Miles opened-up to Gloria.
Will Maggie’s murder mystery be solved & someone brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, & proper great font & writing style. A very professionally written murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ARC; Fig Hollow; Book Review Buzz; BookSprout; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Jack Ryder (fixer, professional killer, former Detective Homicide) was glad to help.
Everett Remington hired Jack to find his wife’s sister Amy Pascal (Queens 3rd grade teacher).
Everett had set Jack up.
Jack made sure he wouldn’t be doing anything every again.
1942, WWII Nazi Germany. Ms. Helga Levin needed Jack to go Sobibor concentration camp on the
Poland borders to find out if Isaac (Jewish, Helga’s brother) is still alive.
Joe Bendix was tailing Jack.
Hospital room # 356. Jack went to pay Guy Roarke (former jail bird) a visit.
Brooklyn, NY. Jack was looking for Jimmy “Knuckles” Bosco & Norah London (broad).
Brownsville, Brooklyn, NYC. The Midnight Rose Candy Store (Murder Inc. headquarters). Rosie Gold (60+) told Jack what he needed to know.
Next stop Three Crowns Hotel (Crown Heights NYC borough of Brooklyn, NYC). Jack met Knuckles.
78th St. Flushing, Queens, NYC apartments (Chinatown). Jack met Norah.
Ryder introduced himself & Gloria (asst.) to Mr. Gerald Miles (dealership owner).
Mr. Miles opened-up to Gloria.
Will Maggie’s murder mystery be solved & someone brought to justice?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, & proper great font & writing style. A very professionally written murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ARC; Fig Hollow; Book Review Buzz; BookSprout; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
July 13, 2020
There is a lot to like about “The Hidden Hand of Death”, the first book in a new series (The Jack Ryder Mysteries) by Lawrence J. Epstein.
The setting is New York, just as the US has entered WW II. Our main character is Jack Ryder, a fixer (not a private detective), working out of a booth at an all-night diner, with a sassy waitress as his assistant. Ryder is a hit man with a moral code, used by the mob but also helping the innocent. Haunted by the death of his wife (suicide? maybe not) for which he feels responsible.
We see a cross-section of people who try to enlist his help – some successfully, some not. We get three main stories here: a police detective looking for his missing sister, a gangster looking for his wife’s sister (to tie up loose ends), and the FBI looking to infiltrate a Nazi ring.
Mr. Epstein balances all three stories admirably, the action is fast-paced and the dialogue is witty. We constantly see Jack making choices that dispense what he considers justice: not always the legal answer, not always what his client was looking for, but what he believes is right. The unraveling of his wife’s death became a fourth story arc, providing Jack with some much-needed closure.
I found Ryder an interesting combination of two other literary “Jacks” in the same vein: F. Paul Wilson’s Repairman Jack (a New York fixer) and Lee Child’s Jack Reacher (lone vigilante helping the weak). I realize that this is the first book in a series, so I give a little leeway for character introduction, but at times it felt like Jack’s “goodness” was a bit heavy-handed: candy for the poor kids, helping a client confront the country’s racism, bringing in someone who wants help with the Holocaust. The characters were very black and white, with only Jack showing some shades of gray.
But overall a straightforward, enjoyable, quick read, and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Fig Hollow via NetGalley. Thank you!
The setting is New York, just as the US has entered WW II. Our main character is Jack Ryder, a fixer (not a private detective), working out of a booth at an all-night diner, with a sassy waitress as his assistant. Ryder is a hit man with a moral code, used by the mob but also helping the innocent. Haunted by the death of his wife (suicide? maybe not) for which he feels responsible.
We see a cross-section of people who try to enlist his help – some successfully, some not. We get three main stories here: a police detective looking for his missing sister, a gangster looking for his wife’s sister (to tie up loose ends), and the FBI looking to infiltrate a Nazi ring.
Mr. Epstein balances all three stories admirably, the action is fast-paced and the dialogue is witty. We constantly see Jack making choices that dispense what he considers justice: not always the legal answer, not always what his client was looking for, but what he believes is right. The unraveling of his wife’s death became a fourth story arc, providing Jack with some much-needed closure.
I found Ryder an interesting combination of two other literary “Jacks” in the same vein: F. Paul Wilson’s Repairman Jack (a New York fixer) and Lee Child’s Jack Reacher (lone vigilante helping the weak). I realize that this is the first book in a series, so I give a little leeway for character introduction, but at times it felt like Jack’s “goodness” was a bit heavy-handed: candy for the poor kids, helping a client confront the country’s racism, bringing in someone who wants help with the Holocaust. The characters were very black and white, with only Jack showing some shades of gray.
But overall a straightforward, enjoyable, quick read, and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Fig Hollow via NetGalley. Thank you!
April 16, 2020
Hit man with Heart
The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein is a novel that captures a story about a gun for hire. Set in the early days of World War II, this tough hit man also has a caring and sensitive nature.
The book begins with Ryder mourning the loss of his recently buried wife. Adding to a display of the main character's sensitivity is a demonstration of his being a sucker when it comes to children and making sure that their sweet tooth is satisfied.
However, don't make any mistake about it, Jack Ryder is as tough as they come and can take a beating as well as give one out. To top it all off, his being a hit man generally pertains to the taking out of nefarious individuals when they double-cross the bad guy's boss.
The next "contract" that needs accomplishing is the killing of a woman. She is the sister of a wife that was brutally murdered by her husband. The husband's name is Remington, and he is the very man that is threatening Ryder to do the job or else. He wants the sister, Amy Pascal eliminated because he doesn't know what his dead wife said or didn't say to her sister before her life was snuffed out. To top it all off, Remington had placed a contract out on his deceased wife, and Ryder was supposed to have done the dastardly deed but relented.
Now the husband of the ex-murdered wife wants Ryder to tie up loose ends and kill his ex-sister-in-law. Increasing the stakes of following through on this new hit, Remington threatens to kill Ryder's deceased wife's immediate family if the job is not done.
The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein will grab and hold your attention. The read is down to earth and often is a portrayal of a tough guy with witty and smart retorts. Added to the mix of pursing the ex-sister-in-law and saving his beloved wife's relatives, Ryder mixes it up with Nazis in the city of New York.
Yes, this book has it all.
The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein is a novel that captures a story about a gun for hire. Set in the early days of World War II, this tough hit man also has a caring and sensitive nature.
The book begins with Ryder mourning the loss of his recently buried wife. Adding to a display of the main character's sensitivity is a demonstration of his being a sucker when it comes to children and making sure that their sweet tooth is satisfied.
However, don't make any mistake about it, Jack Ryder is as tough as they come and can take a beating as well as give one out. To top it all off, his being a hit man generally pertains to the taking out of nefarious individuals when they double-cross the bad guy's boss.
The next "contract" that needs accomplishing is the killing of a woman. She is the sister of a wife that was brutally murdered by her husband. The husband's name is Remington, and he is the very man that is threatening Ryder to do the job or else. He wants the sister, Amy Pascal eliminated because he doesn't know what his dead wife said or didn't say to her sister before her life was snuffed out. To top it all off, Remington had placed a contract out on his deceased wife, and Ryder was supposed to have done the dastardly deed but relented.
Now the husband of the ex-murdered wife wants Ryder to tie up loose ends and kill his ex-sister-in-law. Increasing the stakes of following through on this new hit, Remington threatens to kill Ryder's deceased wife's immediate family if the job is not done.
The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein will grab and hold your attention. The read is down to earth and often is a portrayal of a tough guy with witty and smart retorts. Added to the mix of pursing the ex-sister-in-law and saving his beloved wife's relatives, Ryder mixes it up with Nazis in the city of New York.
Yes, this book has it all.
May 17, 2020
190 pages
5 stars
Jack Ryder is kidnapped by a vengeful gangster named Remington. Remington is very angry that Ryder didn't complete a “fixing” job for him to his satisfaction. Remington tried to hire Ryder to kill his wife. (Ryder is a fixer, not a killer and he doesn't kill women.) But Ryder did agree to locate the wife, but knowing that Remington wanted to kill her, he told her to run.
Remington knows that he can't kill Ryder for he is too valuable to other gangsters who need his services. So he has him beaten. Then he tells him to find his wife's sister- or he will kill all of Ryder's deceased wife's family.
Ryder is also a compassionate man. He helps people. A police detective called him the “saint of lost causes.”
The book follows Ryder for a few days while he is solving problems and dealing his own brand of justice. In his journeys, he meets some very bad people and some good, kindhearted people. From a young man who questions his decision to go to war against the Nazis to solving a vexing murder, Ryder does it all.
This book is exciting, awe-inspiring and peopled with some very interesting characters. I liked Ryder and the waitress in the diner. (I kept urging her to drop her husband...) I was frankly surprised when he identified the murderer and didn't kill him outright. I liked him even more for that. My only criticism of the book is that the characters were so black and white. Of course, we really didn't have time to get to know them well. We all know that life is not really like that, but it is very nice to hold to that dream. This is my first Lawrence Epstein novel, but it won't be my last. I immediately went to Amazon, GoodReads, etc. to read his reviews and put him on my “follow” lists.
I want to thank NetGalley and Mr. Epstein for forwarding to me a copy of this remarkable book for me to read, enjoy and review.
5 stars
Jack Ryder is kidnapped by a vengeful gangster named Remington. Remington is very angry that Ryder didn't complete a “fixing” job for him to his satisfaction. Remington tried to hire Ryder to kill his wife. (Ryder is a fixer, not a killer and he doesn't kill women.) But Ryder did agree to locate the wife, but knowing that Remington wanted to kill her, he told her to run.
Remington knows that he can't kill Ryder for he is too valuable to other gangsters who need his services. So he has him beaten. Then he tells him to find his wife's sister- or he will kill all of Ryder's deceased wife's family.
Ryder is also a compassionate man. He helps people. A police detective called him the “saint of lost causes.”
The book follows Ryder for a few days while he is solving problems and dealing his own brand of justice. In his journeys, he meets some very bad people and some good, kindhearted people. From a young man who questions his decision to go to war against the Nazis to solving a vexing murder, Ryder does it all.
This book is exciting, awe-inspiring and peopled with some very interesting characters. I liked Ryder and the waitress in the diner. (I kept urging her to drop her husband...) I was frankly surprised when he identified the murderer and didn't kill him outright. I liked him even more for that. My only criticism of the book is that the characters were so black and white. Of course, we really didn't have time to get to know them well. We all know that life is not really like that, but it is very nice to hold to that dream. This is my first Lawrence Epstein novel, but it won't be my last. I immediately went to Amazon, GoodReads, etc. to read his reviews and put him on my “follow” lists.
I want to thank NetGalley and Mr. Epstein for forwarding to me a copy of this remarkable book for me to read, enjoy and review.
May 29, 2020
Jack Ryder calls himself a fixer rather than a detective. He is known for killing bad people as well as helping innocent or good people. His office is a booth in an all night diner where the waitress takes messages for Jack eith by phone or in person when Jack isn’t there. Jack has never been able to get over his wife’s death. The police say it’s a suicide but Jack thinks it was murder. However there is no clues. A police detectives meets Jack in his office asking for help in locating his missing sister. He agrees to give Jack the police records on the murder of Jack’s wife if Jace can find his sister. Will Jack find her? Jack has another case where he is trying to help a woman hide from the mob. They are afraid she knows “something” that could hurt them. Will Jack succeed in helping her to escape the mob? The FBI contacts Jack to work for them. The FBI has already lost two agents and thinks they need someone who isn’t a FBI agent. They want to stop the Nazis from sending information to Hitler. Will Jack be able to fool the Nazis?
The author has written an engaging novel with keeping the reader off balance. He creates an exciting pace. Jack is a compelling character. His ability to help others but not himself made me sad. This story reminds me of the “Jack Reacher” character (by Lee Child), though they both Are unique characters and how their work is done. The book is a great beginning for a new series. I look forward to read his next Jack Ryder novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The author has written an engaging novel with keeping the reader off balance. He creates an exciting pace. Jack is a compelling character. His ability to help others but not himself made me sad. This story reminds me of the “Jack Reacher” character (by Lee Child), though they both Are unique characters and how their work is done. The book is a great beginning for a new series. I look forward to read his next Jack Ryder novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/publisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review or any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
April 21, 2020
Perhaps it is rare to read a book where the protagonist Jack Ryder is a hitman; he calls himself a repairman, not a murderer, but he only takes justice into his hands when the people to be killed have committed heinous crimes against others.
The story takes place in the year 1942, where the Second World War hits everyone with force. Men have gone to war and in the United States everyone expects a Nazi attack. At that time the main thing is to help each other. The story takes an interesting twist when a gangster named Remintong and his brother Everett make him a very special request to find his sister-in-law, Amy Pascal, and bring her in front of him. If Jack does not fulfill this task, the gangster will kill the family of Ryder's late wife.
It is really a story that caught me; it is very well written. Its dialogues are entertaining and direct; they lead you to interpret the story much better. It is a novel with a very good reading rhythm; the author Lawrence J Epstein has an organized way of writing, he makes you understand the processes of the story very well and he takes the time to explain details of the protagonist's life to give him a More human side.
It is really a very smart and entertaining novel that will keep your attention constantly
I certainly recommend reading The Hidden Hand of Death.
The story takes place in the year 1942, where the Second World War hits everyone with force. Men have gone to war and in the United States everyone expects a Nazi attack. At that time the main thing is to help each other. The story takes an interesting twist when a gangster named Remintong and his brother Everett make him a very special request to find his sister-in-law, Amy Pascal, and bring her in front of him. If Jack does not fulfill this task, the gangster will kill the family of Ryder's late wife.
It is really a story that caught me; it is very well written. Its dialogues are entertaining and direct; they lead you to interpret the story much better. It is a novel with a very good reading rhythm; the author Lawrence J Epstein has an organized way of writing, he makes you understand the processes of the story very well and he takes the time to explain details of the protagonist's life to give him a More human side.
It is really a very smart and entertaining novel that will keep your attention constantly
I certainly recommend reading The Hidden Hand of Death.
July 10, 2020
WWII American period style, subtly gripping, private investigator thriller.
This is a highly atmospheric and gripping detective thriller with strong elements of the great war incorporated intricately into the tight but complicated plot. Cast in America with the distinct and oppressive clouds of war hovering over the plot and the setting, the main protagonist, Jack Ryder is portrayed as an almost tragic hero who faces a case that involves Nazi sympathizers and a host of multifaceted characters who are unusual for the period.
Written with an almost oppressive somber note that permeates the entire novel, Jack is not a typical private investigator that we are used to, but rather a sensitive yet resilient hero with a distinctly Robin Hood attitude towards his job and particularly, his life. He is the image of the typical PI, but instead of drinking beer and whisky, he sticks to coffee and eats pie or cake.
Although the author brings some peripheral issues into the plot, which are not really directly related to the theme which involves the enigmatic death of his wife, this is a wartime thriller which will appeal to lovers of suspense and historical novels with chilling realism and action as well. A brooding and a gently tragic atmosphere which leaves a strong impression, makes this an absorbing and entertaining reading experience.
This is a highly atmospheric and gripping detective thriller with strong elements of the great war incorporated intricately into the tight but complicated plot. Cast in America with the distinct and oppressive clouds of war hovering over the plot and the setting, the main protagonist, Jack Ryder is portrayed as an almost tragic hero who faces a case that involves Nazi sympathizers and a host of multifaceted characters who are unusual for the period.
Written with an almost oppressive somber note that permeates the entire novel, Jack is not a typical private investigator that we are used to, but rather a sensitive yet resilient hero with a distinctly Robin Hood attitude towards his job and particularly, his life. He is the image of the typical PI, but instead of drinking beer and whisky, he sticks to coffee and eats pie or cake.
Although the author brings some peripheral issues into the plot, which are not really directly related to the theme which involves the enigmatic death of his wife, this is a wartime thriller which will appeal to lovers of suspense and historical novels with chilling realism and action as well. A brooding and a gently tragic atmosphere which leaves a strong impression, makes this an absorbing and entertaining reading experience.
August 19, 2020
Not Your Regular Hitman Series
Lawrence Epstein presents us with a story of a hitman man, but this time, it’s not like anything you’ve ever read. Jack Ryder is not interested in doing the dirty jobs. His targets are the bad guys and their cohort. There are many interesting characters in this book that kept the pages blazing. There are characters like Luciano, who is also one of Ryder’s targets—he makes trouble for those who stand as Ryder’s greatest enemies.
Jack is not only a man of the trigger. He is also a philanthropist and spends a lot of cash improving the lives of the poor. Jack Ryder’s job is a tough one too. He’s always in the line of danger, either saving the United States or protecting a significant individual from danger.
Epstein takes the story way back to the era of the Nazi’s and the world war II. We find Jack going on an espionage mission into Sobibor concentration camp to see if Isaac was dead or alive.
The Hidden Hand of Death shows a lot of professionalism in writing style and plot, distinguishing the author as one who is well established in the field. Adapting this book for a TV series won’t be a bad idea.
Lawrence Epstein presents us with a story of a hitman man, but this time, it’s not like anything you’ve ever read. Jack Ryder is not interested in doing the dirty jobs. His targets are the bad guys and their cohort. There are many interesting characters in this book that kept the pages blazing. There are characters like Luciano, who is also one of Ryder’s targets—he makes trouble for those who stand as Ryder’s greatest enemies.
Jack is not only a man of the trigger. He is also a philanthropist and spends a lot of cash improving the lives of the poor. Jack Ryder’s job is a tough one too. He’s always in the line of danger, either saving the United States or protecting a significant individual from danger.
Epstein takes the story way back to the era of the Nazi’s and the world war II. We find Jack going on an espionage mission into Sobibor concentration camp to see if Isaac was dead or alive.
The Hidden Hand of Death shows a lot of professionalism in writing style and plot, distinguishing the author as one who is well established in the field. Adapting this book for a TV series won’t be a bad idea.
November 17, 2020
Compelling, intriguing and action-packed are some of the adjectives that best define this crime thriller. Author Lawrence J. Epstein successfully manages to capture the reader’s attention as the events unfold, making this story difficult to put down. In fact, after doing some research, I found out that Epstein was a former teacher of writing at Suffolk County Community College. I must say that the narration reflects his remarkable writing skills. The conversational style is captivating and the way the main character’s personality is carefully revealed throughout the novel is truly amazing.
The plot revolves around Jack Ryder, a generous man who likes helping people by giving them money and also by killing those who had hurt innocent individuals. The ‘fixer’ as he calls himself is forcibly hired by a former detective and is given the task of finding her sister. Yet, as the novel unfolds Ryder is faced with other personal mysteries that he will have to solve.
I can’t wait to read the second part of this series. I am a fan of crime stories and this one has exceeded my expectations.
The plot revolves around Jack Ryder, a generous man who likes helping people by giving them money and also by killing those who had hurt innocent individuals. The ‘fixer’ as he calls himself is forcibly hired by a former detective and is given the task of finding her sister. Yet, as the novel unfolds Ryder is faced with other personal mysteries that he will have to solve.
I can’t wait to read the second part of this series. I am a fan of crime stories and this one has exceeded my expectations.
April 25, 2020
When it comes to mystery, I am inclined to say that this book is an excellent example of it. The title and the cover of the book caught my attention from the start. “The Hidden Hand of Death- the Jack Rider Mysteries book 1” was written by Lawrence J. Epstein. He has written historical mysteries; books about the Jewish life and the American popular culture.
The plot is focused on Jack Rider who is known as a detective, but he regards himself as a “Fixer”. In this book he faces a different situation from his previous experiences. As he is considered one of the best in this “job”, the people who contact him expect that Jack accomplishes this harsh task. So, he must undergo some difficult situations.
There are plenty of descriptions of the scenery which make the reading much more vivid; the reading pace is smoothly. It is a well-written book with complex and developed characters.
In a nutshell, I enjoyed so much this book that I could not put it down 'till the end. It is captivating, absorbing and a must-read mystery!
August 26, 2020
The Hidden Hand of Death (The Jack Ryder Mysteries Book 1) by Lawrence J. Epstein is a historical thriller. This first book of the series gives us a lot of information about the characters and the context in which the plot develops.
The main character, Ryder, is in his own words a “fixer”. You can think of him as a darker Robin Hood; I like this characterization of him because it gives you a glance of his behaviour, his personality, and also a key thing in his personality is that he enjoys helping other people, as Robin Hood, but he has a terrible time helping himself. He is haunted by his past and the death of his wife.
The story is set in New York in 1942 just as World War II breaks out. Ryder is hired by a homicide detective to find his missing sister. As the story develops the author does a really good job creating excitement and a fast pace read. I really liked this book. What caught my attention the most was the way the author managed to mix the topics regarding Ryder’s personality.
The main character, Ryder, is in his own words a “fixer”. You can think of him as a darker Robin Hood; I like this characterization of him because it gives you a glance of his behaviour, his personality, and also a key thing in his personality is that he enjoys helping other people, as Robin Hood, but he has a terrible time helping himself. He is haunted by his past and the death of his wife.
The story is set in New York in 1942 just as World War II breaks out. Ryder is hired by a homicide detective to find his missing sister. As the story develops the author does a really good job creating excitement and a fast pace read. I really liked this book. What caught my attention the most was the way the author managed to mix the topics regarding Ryder’s personality.
August 28, 2020
Epstein's first installment in a series of detective stories is one of the best ones I have ever read. I personally love mysteries and detective stories, so it was not hard for me to pick this one out as soon as I read the title and add it to my cart. But, let me tell you that I have also chosen this book for its cover. What a promising image on it! I am sure it is able to invite even readers who don’t like this type of stories.
The author has mastered the talent of crafting amazing characters that would make you believe you know them personally. The plot unfolds naturally and the fact that the story is set in the 1900s, during WW II gives it a plus.
The sequences of events present in this mystery tale are easy to follow along, partly thanks to dialogues and partly because Epstein has chosen the first person to pen it. I, particularly, like stories written in the first person because it helps me feel involved in what is going on.
I absolutely recommend this book and well-deserved 5 stars go for it!
The author has mastered the talent of crafting amazing characters that would make you believe you know them personally. The plot unfolds naturally and the fact that the story is set in the 1900s, during WW II gives it a plus.
The sequences of events present in this mystery tale are easy to follow along, partly thanks to dialogues and partly because Epstein has chosen the first person to pen it. I, particularly, like stories written in the first person because it helps me feel involved in what is going on.
I absolutely recommend this book and well-deserved 5 stars go for it!
November 20, 2020
The Hidden Hand of Death, the first book in the Lawrence Epstein mystery series, was where we met Jack Ryder, a hit man that has a high sense of morality and tries to mend his mistakes (killings) by only killing the people who hurt others. Not only that, but he also donates his wages to orphans or buy candy for kids in the street. Who would expect a killer to do those kinds of things?
This story is set in 1942 as the USA enters the war against the Nazis, he is hired to find a missing woman, and as the story develops he will get involved in going up against Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
Lawrence Epstein’s experience in his historical mysteries and books about jewish life and American popular culture helps this story come to life in such a detailed way, that the characters are easy to follow, and you develop a love/hate relationship with the main character and his background.
This is such an interesting book, anyone that loves mysteries will fall in love with it. Highly recommended
This story is set in 1942 as the USA enters the war against the Nazis, he is hired to find a missing woman, and as the story develops he will get involved in going up against Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
Lawrence Epstein’s experience in his historical mysteries and books about jewish life and American popular culture helps this story come to life in such a detailed way, that the characters are easy to follow, and you develop a love/hate relationship with the main character and his background.
This is such an interesting book, anyone that loves mysteries will fall in love with it. Highly recommended
April 30, 2020
“The Hidden Hand Of Death” is a book written by Lawrence J. Epstein. This is the first book in a series called “The Jack Ryder Mysteries”. This is a perfect book for the weekend as it has less than two hundred pages and is a fast read.
The story is set in the year 1942, when the war with Germany has just begun. The main character, called Jack Ryder, is well known for killing those members of the mob who hurt the innocents and he also helps ordinary people in trouble. He is hired to find a missing woman and there all the action and mystery began.
The story is very well narrated and characters are believable and developed. I liked how the plot develops throughout the story. The main character is very special as it is not the traditional hero. This is a very good ingredient in this story.
I am giving The Hidden Hand of Death 5 stars and I will certainly recommend reading it because I found it to be a very enjoyable read.
The story is set in the year 1942, when the war with Germany has just begun. The main character, called Jack Ryder, is well known for killing those members of the mob who hurt the innocents and he also helps ordinary people in trouble. He is hired to find a missing woman and there all the action and mystery began.
The story is very well narrated and characters are believable and developed. I liked how the plot develops throughout the story. The main character is very special as it is not the traditional hero. This is a very good ingredient in this story.
I am giving The Hidden Hand of Death 5 stars and I will certainly recommend reading it because I found it to be a very enjoyable read.
July 15, 2020
Stunning is a word I can definitely describe to this book. The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein is insanely good and absolutely one of the best books I have read these days. It was unique and has a theme that you can barely encounter in a fictional world. The story started off in the year 1942 in New York and is centered on our main character Jack Ryder who is a fixer and who kills bad guys.
The fact that the book started in a first person point of view was easy for me to get lost in the story. The book's series of events with its constant gripping revelations were so unexpected that I had to pause for a while and digest what it said. The book was also action-packed with a series of twists that would wow you from start to finish.
As a whiole, this book made me want to read more historical crime fiction. It wasn't difficult to like it the author has done a wonderful job creating a fictional world with interesting characters that would draw you in.
The fact that the book started in a first person point of view was easy for me to get lost in the story. The book's series of events with its constant gripping revelations were so unexpected that I had to pause for a while and digest what it said. The book was also action-packed with a series of twists that would wow you from start to finish.
As a whiole, this book made me want to read more historical crime fiction. It wasn't difficult to like it the author has done a wonderful job creating a fictional world with interesting characters that would draw you in.
August 26, 2020
Being the first book of the series The Jack Ryder Mysteries, “The Hidden Hand of Death” was written by Lawrence J. Epstein. The author narrates the story of a detective, Jack Ryder, who calls himself a “fixer”. He is also popular for killing people involved in the Mafia, who hurt the innocent ones. The author takes the readers to 1942, when the War with Germany has just begun.
This mystery story has it all; detectives, gangsters and Nazis. The author did an amazing job portraying the characters, they are very well developed. The story is told in the first person and from the perspective of Jack Ryder, so the reader knows what he knows.
The plot of the story is very good and there are certain twists and turns that make the tale even more interesting and difficult to put down. I enjoyed this exciting, suspenseful story very much and I will definitely recommend reading it. Personally, I think this story is aimed at adults who like mystery and historical events.
This mystery story has it all; detectives, gangsters and Nazis. The author did an amazing job portraying the characters, they are very well developed. The story is told in the first person and from the perspective of Jack Ryder, so the reader knows what he knows.
The plot of the story is very good and there are certain twists and turns that make the tale even more interesting and difficult to put down. I enjoyed this exciting, suspenseful story very much and I will definitely recommend reading it. Personally, I think this story is aimed at adults who like mystery and historical events.
August 26, 2020
This story captured my attention from the very beginning. “The Hidden Hand of Death” written by Lawrence J. Epstein is the first book in the promising series “The Jack Ryder Mysteries”. It is an action-packed, thrilling, well-written novel that will keep you hooked until the last page. I love mystery stories, especially the ones which introduce historical events, and this one has all the elements to make it an excellent read.
This story is set in 1942 as the USA enters the war against the Nazis. The protagonist is Jack Ryder, a detective, who likes to think of himself as a “fixer”. He helps people in trouble in the same measure as he kills mobsters who have hurt innocent people. He is hired to find a missing woman, and as the story develops he will get involved in going up against Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
The witty dialogues, the well-drawn characters and the twists and turns in the plot make this book a real treat. I highly recommend it.
This story is set in 1942 as the USA enters the war against the Nazis. The protagonist is Jack Ryder, a detective, who likes to think of himself as a “fixer”. He helps people in trouble in the same measure as he kills mobsters who have hurt innocent people. He is hired to find a missing woman, and as the story develops he will get involved in going up against Nazis in New York and saving a woman on the run from gangsters.
The witty dialogues, the well-drawn characters and the twists and turns in the plot make this book a real treat. I highly recommend it.
November 19, 2020
The main character of this book (first one of the series) is Jack Ryder, a lonely widower and private detective in New York in the 40s, who likes to think himself as a fixer. He is a tough man that kills those who harm innocents, but yet a noble one. The characterization here is flawless and precise. Same with the other characters in the story, which are diverse and multidimensional.
But this tale is not only about entertaining characters, it has also an intricate and gripping plot. Jack Ryder deals with a dangerous former client, helps a police detective to look for his sister and assists the FBI against some Nazis in New York; while facing the mystery surrounding the death of his wife.
Overall “The Hidden Hand of Death” by Lawrence J. Epstein is a thrilling mystery with amazing characters and an in-depth plot that will leave you on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page.
But this tale is not only about entertaining characters, it has also an intricate and gripping plot. Jack Ryder deals with a dangerous former client, helps a police detective to look for his sister and assists the FBI against some Nazis in New York; while facing the mystery surrounding the death of his wife.
Overall “The Hidden Hand of Death” by Lawrence J. Epstein is a thrilling mystery with amazing characters and an in-depth plot that will leave you on the edge of your seat with every turn of the page.
April 24, 2020
The Hidden Hand of Death by Lawrence J. Epstein is the first book in his Jack Ryder mysteries. Jack Ryder is a "fixer". He fixes problems for people, even murder. He has rules that he follows; he only kills people who kill innocents, he doesn't kill women, and he only helps those that deserve his help. As Ryder goes around fixing problems for others, he struggles with his own calamity. It has been two years and he still does not know why his wife, Maggie, died or how. He fixes others, but can he ever fix this to find a solution to her death?
Lawrence J. Epstein is a master story teller. The Hidden Hand of Death is full of action and suspense as Jack Ryder solves one case after another. I love how the author weaves in two of his passions; his love of books and the Jewish religion. This is a fast paced book you will not be able to put down.
Lawrence J. Epstein is a master story teller. The Hidden Hand of Death is full of action and suspense as Jack Ryder solves one case after another. I love how the author weaves in two of his passions; his love of books and the Jewish religion. This is a fast paced book you will not be able to put down.
April 27, 2020
"The Hidden Hand of Death” is written by Lawrence J. Epstein. He is an amazing author, who has written a huge amount of books of different topics.
This is the first book in the series. It is a very entertaining novel. The story deals with Nazis, gangsters and mystery. It is an intriguing thriller with excellent pacing, satisfactory characters' development and a number of page-turning twists and turns.
The story, narrated in first person, is written through the eyes of Jack Ryder, a detective. The novel is set in the year1942, when the war against Germany had just started.
I’m really exciting about this series. I hope that the next book will arrive soon. I want to read it now.
In my opinion this book should be read by adults. It contains a lot of history details which will make you remember what you studied in high school. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
This is the first book in the series. It is a very entertaining novel. The story deals with Nazis, gangsters and mystery. It is an intriguing thriller with excellent pacing, satisfactory characters' development and a number of page-turning twists and turns.
The story, narrated in first person, is written through the eyes of Jack Ryder, a detective. The novel is set in the year1942, when the war against Germany had just started.
I’m really exciting about this series. I hope that the next book will arrive soon. I want to read it now.
In my opinion this book should be read by adults. It contains a lot of history details which will make you remember what you studied in high school. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
May 15, 2020
Author Lawrence J. Epstein takes readers back to 1942 when World War II is just starting. Despite being a difficult time in history, detective Jack Ryder is still working hard to help people in need. One day, another detective seeks Ryder’s services to help locate his missing sister. Ryder agrees to do so, but soon finds himself not only on the search for her, but needing to fight against secret Nazis in New York. He must use his wits to not only find the missing sister, but outsmart his enemies before they destroy him.
If you enjoy mysteries or suspense novels, this is one story you’ll want to check out. Not only does Epstein include a handful of well-developed characters, but numerous plot twists that are sure to surprise you. At 190 pages, it’s not necessarily that long of a read making it perfect for those who want a somewhat short yet well-written mystery to enjoy.
If you enjoy mysteries or suspense novels, this is one story you’ll want to check out. Not only does Epstein include a handful of well-developed characters, but numerous plot twists that are sure to surprise you. At 190 pages, it’s not necessarily that long of a read making it perfect for those who want a somewhat short yet well-written mystery to enjoy.
August 25, 2020
An intriguing story about a curious detective
The Hidden Hand of Death is a page-turner, terrifying thriller written by Lawrence J. Epstein.
In this novel, the author takes us to the year 1942, the year where the German war has begun. Back then, a detective called Jack Ryder is hired to solve complex mysteries, to go against the Nazis and to save someone from violent gangsters.
The writer uses simple language, so the story is easy to follow. The descriptions included as well as the engaging plot make this book hard to put down.
I don’t think this book is suitable for children, mainly because of the situations that develop in the story. However, I strongly recommend this story for adults. This is the perfect book to read while commuting to work, or even at weekends, specially if you want to unwind and travel to a different decade.
The Hidden Hand of Death is a page-turner, terrifying thriller written by Lawrence J. Epstein.
In this novel, the author takes us to the year 1942, the year where the German war has begun. Back then, a detective called Jack Ryder is hired to solve complex mysteries, to go against the Nazis and to save someone from violent gangsters.
The writer uses simple language, so the story is easy to follow. The descriptions included as well as the engaging plot make this book hard to put down.
I don’t think this book is suitable for children, mainly because of the situations that develop in the story. However, I strongly recommend this story for adults. This is the perfect book to read while commuting to work, or even at weekends, specially if you want to unwind and travel to a different decade.
October 14, 2020
Early 1940’s justice delivered by Jack Ryder
This is a good story that is based in the early 1940’s and the focus is on the main character Jack Ryder. Jack is a fixer and he takes care of problems which usually means he kills bad guys. Sometimes he gets
paid and others he is working for free but he will always seek justice for the innocent. This journey isn’t packed with multiple storylines that will keep you guessing as you follow Jack in his quest to solve the mystery of his wife’s death while helping a cop find a missing sister and several other situations. This is a good read with well developed characters and is also the first in the series. Check this one out folks. It is a good read and I am looking forward to the follow up.
This is a good story that is based in the early 1940’s and the focus is on the main character Jack Ryder. Jack is a fixer and he takes care of problems which usually means he kills bad guys. Sometimes he gets
paid and others he is working for free but he will always seek justice for the innocent. This journey isn’t packed with multiple storylines that will keep you guessing as you follow Jack in his quest to solve the mystery of his wife’s death while helping a cop find a missing sister and several other situations. This is a good read with well developed characters and is also the first in the series. Check this one out folks. It is a good read and I am looking forward to the follow up.
November 19, 2020
This story is set in the year 1942 and has a main protagonist called Jack Ryde. He is a different kind of hero; he is a killer, but now kills bad people, and he also helps ordinary people in trouble.
“The Hidden Hand of Death” is a book written by Lawrence Epstein, former English professor. The author did a great job with this novel; the plot is very good and captured my attention as soon as I read the first pages. Characters are very well developed and described and I could empathise with Jack, because although he is not an ordinary man, he is portrayed as one.
I would gladly recommend all readers who enjoy mysteries, to read this story. It is entertaining, it has well rounded characters and as it has less than two hundred pages, it is a fast read.
“The Hidden Hand of Death” is a book written by Lawrence Epstein, former English professor. The author did a great job with this novel; the plot is very good and captured my attention as soon as I read the first pages. Characters are very well developed and described and I could empathise with Jack, because although he is not an ordinary man, he is portrayed as one.
I would gladly recommend all readers who enjoy mysteries, to read this story. It is entertaining, it has well rounded characters and as it has less than two hundred pages, it is a fast read.
January 11, 2021
Terrific book!
Enjoy retro books, you will enjoy this book! The main character is Jack Ryder and he's a fixer that makes things happen in New York City! His story is set in World War Two. He works for cops, bad guys or regular people. He will get paid him he amounts if money or do it altruistic ally. Jack Ryder takes us along his jobs and we get to experience and understand his motives . I come from New York City particularly an area the author writes about Yorkville. So this book brought up a lot of memories . Thanks to the author for writing such a gritty and interesting novel!
Enjoy retro books, you will enjoy this book! The main character is Jack Ryder and he's a fixer that makes things happen in New York City! His story is set in World War Two. He works for cops, bad guys or regular people. He will get paid him he amounts if money or do it altruistic ally. Jack Ryder takes us along his jobs and we get to experience and understand his motives . I come from New York City particularly an area the author writes about Yorkville. So this book brought up a lot of memories . Thanks to the author for writing such a gritty and interesting novel!
May 31, 2020
Jack Ryder is more than just in so many ways.
More than a fixer who is conflicted, more than a hit man, more than a flawed gritty PI type guy
In a world on the brink of war, and beyond, new foes with essentially same and essentially different motivations emerge.
Scarred and damaged heroes and relative villains and victims
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
More than a fixer who is conflicted, more than a hit man, more than a flawed gritty PI type guy
In a world on the brink of war, and beyond, new foes with essentially same and essentially different motivations emerge.
Scarred and damaged heroes and relative villains and victims
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2021
Don't Bother
This is one of those books that you wind up kicking yourself for wasting your time to finish. I kept thinking/hoping that a cohesive storyline would emerge, but it simply wandered around with no direction from beginning to end. I selected this book because it was set during WWII, and I enjoy historic novels. But this setting lent nothing to the meandering story. It could have just as easily been set in modern time.
This is one of those books that you wind up kicking yourself for wasting your time to finish. I kept thinking/hoping that a cohesive storyline would emerge, but it simply wandered around with no direction from beginning to end. I selected this book because it was set during WWII, and I enjoy historic novels. But this setting lent nothing to the meandering story. It could have just as easily been set in modern time.
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