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Red Dog Conspiracy #3
The Ace of Clubs: Part 3 of the Red Dog Conspiracy
Trapped. Betrayed. Desperate. Could you betray your people to buy your freedom? The one secret which could destroy everything ... After financial disaster and the zeppelin bombing, the far future domed neo-Victorian city of Bridges is reeling. Three of the four Families are implicated, and an inquest is called to investigate. After her failure to prove Jack Diamond's guilt in David Bryce's kidnapping and the murders of her informants, private eye and mobster's moll Jacqueline Spadros has had enough. While she and her former lover Joseph Kerr try to learn who killed their family friend, they also begin making plans to leave the city. Her tormentors, however, are just getting started. As their web of lies and forgery draws ever tighter, Jacqui begins to see how deep the conspiracy against her and the Spadros Family really goes. When she's called as a witness in the inquest, the secrets Jacqui has kept over the years come back to cause her serious trouble. Will she be able to escape Bridges? Or will she be forced to face the terrible consequences of her lies and trickery once and for all? Scroll up, pre-order your copy, and continue the adventure! This is part 3 of a 13-part serial steampunk noir novel, the Red Dog Conspiracy. While it's not mandatory to have read The Jacq of Spades (part 1) and The Queen of Diamonds (part 2), it's highly recommended that you do so before venturing forth. language, alcohol/smoking, sexual content, infidelity, and attempted rape.
- GenresSteampunk
244 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2017
About the author
Patricia Loofbourrow
27 books406 followersPatricia Loofbourrow was born in southern California and currently lives in Oklahoma. Learning to read at the age of three, she grew up on Heinlein, Bradbury, and Asimov, and found at an early age that she loved science.
Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology with a minor in Chemistry from Cal Poly Pomona then an MD from Rush University, Dr. Loofbourrow practiced family medicine for ten years before becoming a stay at home mom in 2000. After leaving medicine, Patricia Loofbourrow ran one of the first “ask a doctor” patient education websites from 2000-2004.
Patty wrote her first novel during the 2005 National Novel Writing Month, going on to write eight novels, four novellas, and well over 100 short stories, mostly speculative fiction, before choosing to self-publish. She has been a long-time member of the Forward Motion Forums, and was the founder of Fifty Word Fiction on DeviantArt. She has also worked as a freelance non-fiction writer and editor since 2000, and currently runs an informational website on edible landscaping.
Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology with a minor in Chemistry from Cal Poly Pomona then an MD from Rush University, Dr. Loofbourrow practiced family medicine for ten years before becoming a stay at home mom in 2000. After leaving medicine, Patricia Loofbourrow ran one of the first “ask a doctor” patient education websites from 2000-2004.
Patty wrote her first novel during the 2005 National Novel Writing Month, going on to write eight novels, four novellas, and well over 100 short stories, mostly speculative fiction, before choosing to self-publish. She has been a long-time member of the Forward Motion Forums, and was the founder of Fifty Word Fiction on DeviantArt. She has also worked as a freelance non-fiction writer and editor since 2000, and currently runs an informational website on edible landscaping.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 24, 2017
Received this book for free am voluntarily reviewing Stunning continuation of the series, great flow, enjoy getting to know the characters more deeply, cannot wait to read book 4 Highly recommend Reading
August 17, 2018
I was wrong when I said things could not get better. This world so intrigues me and has me wanting so much more. You have to know that going in to a world where a woman feels trapped, betrayed, and desperate things are bound to be on a long ride. Jacqueline was more and less than what I was expecting. She had so much going on in her world having the past come back to take a bite out of her was just what she did not need but was expected. Things become more intense the darkness of some revelations makes you sit up and take notice. There was a bite in here that made it go over the edge. Patricia Loofbourrow has and exceptional imagination. Her world of steampunk future was delicious. Her crime mystery had an edge to it. This was just enough of the different to make it more. Machelle Williams delivered again on the vocal narration. She helps the story tone with her diction, pitch, tone and clear differentiation between characters and gender. Get them all. Listen to them all. You will find yourself in a serious fight.
August 22, 2017
I read a free ARC of this currently unpublished book, obtained from the author.
'The Ace of Clubs' is the third novel in 'The Red Dog Conspiracy' series. If you've read the previous books that is all you need to know - you'll be already hunting down a copy to read... If you've not read the earlier books - you are in for a treat and I urge you to do so. Now.
Set in a future world some 2000 years AC (After the Catastrophe) the domed city of Bridges is oddly familiar - a neo-Victorian/Edwardian steampunk world with zeppelins (mechanical vehicles are mentioned but barely feature, there is also a mechanical man in one street scene in this volume). The author describes it, not inaccurately, as 'A gender-flipped novelized film noir (more technically 'neo-noir')... ' What that description doesn't say is that this is a cracking good story - and even after three books (plus a prequel novella, a short story and some snippets from an 'A to Z of Bridges' bonus) I'm still learning more about the city and the world. We continue with the investigative (mis)adventures of Jacqueline Spadros - apparently the respectable wife of Spadros heir Anthony but in reality someone far more formidable.
A thoroughly recommeded book - what is even better is this is not the last volume of a trilogy but just another in a longer series. This author is fast becoming one of my favourites - definitely on my 'must read' list. Now to wait impatiently for the next book!
'The Ace of Clubs' is the third novel in 'The Red Dog Conspiracy' series. If you've read the previous books that is all you need to know - you'll be already hunting down a copy to read... If you've not read the earlier books - you are in for a treat and I urge you to do so. Now.
Set in a future world some 2000 years AC (After the Catastrophe) the domed city of Bridges is oddly familiar - a neo-Victorian/Edwardian steampunk world with zeppelins (mechanical vehicles are mentioned but barely feature, there is also a mechanical man in one street scene in this volume). The author describes it, not inaccurately, as 'A gender-flipped novelized film noir (more technically 'neo-noir')... ' What that description doesn't say is that this is a cracking good story - and even after three books (plus a prequel novella, a short story and some snippets from an 'A to Z of Bridges' bonus) I'm still learning more about the city and the world. We continue with the investigative (mis)adventures of Jacqueline Spadros - apparently the respectable wife of Spadros heir Anthony but in reality someone far more formidable.
A thoroughly recommeded book - what is even better is this is not the last volume of a trilogy but just another in a longer series. This author is fast becoming one of my favourites - definitely on my 'must read' list. Now to wait impatiently for the next book!
August 16, 2017
The Ace of Clubs is the third part of the series that began with the Jacq of Spades, and I would strongly recommend reading the first two books before reading this one. This intricately crafted complex story is one in which the layers build on themselves making a complex web of questions which lead to more questions as the story progresses. The story is part noir and part mob story taking place in a dystopian future. The lead character, Jacqui, is not always likable and the diverse supporting characters are complex and often not who they seem. The ending left me anxious for the next book in the series which I hope the author will write fast.
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I received an ARC copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
September 27, 2017
Great story!
The World in this Series is so complicated! Everyrhing is connected in the least expected places or moments.
Book 3 reveals some answers from book 1 & 2. And as well add a lot more questions to everyrhing why is it going on like that.
Be prepared for shocking news! And to read when no one would disturb you.
The World in this Series is so complicated! Everyrhing is connected in the least expected places or moments.
Book 3 reveals some answers from book 1 & 2. And as well add a lot more questions to everyrhing why is it going on like that.
Be prepared for shocking news! And to read when no one would disturb you.
January 1, 2018
Originally posted on Tales to Tide You Over
The Ace of Clubs is the third book in the Red Dog Conspiracy and a very complicated novel for oh so many reasons. If you haven’t read the series, be aware there will be spoilers not for this book but for the ones previous to some degree so choose whether to read on with that awareness.
When I first finished the book, I thought I didn’t like it, but while I’d like to have seen Jacqui take a more active role at times, it took a bit to realize my issue wasn’t with the book at all. The series is a futuristic steampunk, noir, crime family epic with all the Dickens elements I adore of privilege, underclasses, and society running at multiple levels often oblivious of each other to some extent. The characters are nuanced and complicated. They don’t always make the right choices (or sometimes ever) and seem a little too willing to sacrifice others in the name of themselves, but what’s key is they are true to their own character, consistent in their inconsistencies, and often enough infuriating in their decisions.
The Ace of Clubs is very true to these parts, especially Jacqui’s lack of control over her life and the consequences her hidden rebellion enact on the lives of those around her. Sure, the main story focuses on the inquest into the destruction of the zeppelin, but it’s what the inquest brings into the open that forms the heart of the novel. This is a story of betrayals, both those known and unknown. It raises questions of duty when the target of that duty is innocent and not the one who forced Jacqui into the situation, but he is the one harmed should she reject her unwilling duty.
Jacqui seems to realize how her choices harm those around her at times but then doesn’t change her behavior always, so there’s the hint at growth to come, but she’s not there yet. Still, some of her actions now incorporate this understanding, like when she tells Tony the truth about her investigations so no one else will suffer for her. She’s not a perfect person, nor would I want her to be, but I do appreciate the times when she looks beyond her own selfish needs. Her work with the inventor is in the same line. Yes, it would help her as well, but it helps all of them.
Again, I selfishly wanted more of the story focused on the inventors, but that series thread does advance as well, equally as seeped in the clash of the different crime families. There is a lot of manipulation and double-speak throughout, clouding motivations and goals under a mist filled with violence. The history revealed in The Alcatraz Coup also has significance.
Jacqui’s motivations cut to the core of why my first reaction was angst, again a symptom of strong characters that have engaged me to the extent of frustration because I don’t support what they are doing at this point. Basically, Jacqui’s main actions, as you might have suspected from The Queen of Diamonds, involve her childhood love Joe. Whether it’s because I see Tony as an innocent (in a manner of speaking), or because I’m right, I don’t trust Joe. I find him disruptive, and his timing is all too suspicious. The risks he encourages Jacqui to take knowing the nature of her father-in-law’s interest are not those driven by a definition of love I appreciate. That said, neither Joe nor Jacqui act in an unbelievable way, just not how I would wish them to. It’s odd for someone so mixed up in conniving as Jacqui is to be so trusting, but she does trust Joe, and on too slim a history to my mind. It makes her less honest, even with herself, and harsher than the intrepid investigator we first met in Jacq of Spades, but that doesn’t mean the development is unwarranted.
Ultimately, Ace of Clubs is true to the series. It focuses on some of my least favorite parts so far, but considering the amount of thought and attention the story drew from me, it’s the characters I’m frustrated with rather than the story. I’m still looking forward to seeing how the pieces come together. What happens with Joe may be a deciding factor in my following through the whole series (an odd comment once you’ve read the book, but I have my reasons), but for the time being, I’m still sucked in and would feel the pain of threads left untied should I stop now.
P.S. I received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review…and have purchased my own copy.
The Ace of Clubs is the third book in the Red Dog Conspiracy and a very complicated novel for oh so many reasons. If you haven’t read the series, be aware there will be spoilers not for this book but for the ones previous to some degree so choose whether to read on with that awareness.
When I first finished the book, I thought I didn’t like it, but while I’d like to have seen Jacqui take a more active role at times, it took a bit to realize my issue wasn’t with the book at all. The series is a futuristic steampunk, noir, crime family epic with all the Dickens elements I adore of privilege, underclasses, and society running at multiple levels often oblivious of each other to some extent. The characters are nuanced and complicated. They don’t always make the right choices (or sometimes ever) and seem a little too willing to sacrifice others in the name of themselves, but what’s key is they are true to their own character, consistent in their inconsistencies, and often enough infuriating in their decisions.
The Ace of Clubs is very true to these parts, especially Jacqui’s lack of control over her life and the consequences her hidden rebellion enact on the lives of those around her. Sure, the main story focuses on the inquest into the destruction of the zeppelin, but it’s what the inquest brings into the open that forms the heart of the novel. This is a story of betrayals, both those known and unknown. It raises questions of duty when the target of that duty is innocent and not the one who forced Jacqui into the situation, but he is the one harmed should she reject her unwilling duty.
Jacqui seems to realize how her choices harm those around her at times but then doesn’t change her behavior always, so there’s the hint at growth to come, but she’s not there yet. Still, some of her actions now incorporate this understanding, like when she tells Tony the truth about her investigations so no one else will suffer for her. She’s not a perfect person, nor would I want her to be, but I do appreciate the times when she looks beyond her own selfish needs. Her work with the inventor is in the same line. Yes, it would help her as well, but it helps all of them.
Again, I selfishly wanted more of the story focused on the inventors, but that series thread does advance as well, equally as seeped in the clash of the different crime families. There is a lot of manipulation and double-speak throughout, clouding motivations and goals under a mist filled with violence. The history revealed in The Alcatraz Coup also has significance.
Jacqui’s motivations cut to the core of why my first reaction was angst, again a symptom of strong characters that have engaged me to the extent of frustration because I don’t support what they are doing at this point. Basically, Jacqui’s main actions, as you might have suspected from The Queen of Diamonds, involve her childhood love Joe. Whether it’s because I see Tony as an innocent (in a manner of speaking), or because I’m right, I don’t trust Joe. I find him disruptive, and his timing is all too suspicious. The risks he encourages Jacqui to take knowing the nature of her father-in-law’s interest are not those driven by a definition of love I appreciate. That said, neither Joe nor Jacqui act in an unbelievable way, just not how I would wish them to. It’s odd for someone so mixed up in conniving as Jacqui is to be so trusting, but she does trust Joe, and on too slim a history to my mind. It makes her less honest, even with herself, and harsher than the intrepid investigator we first met in Jacq of Spades, but that doesn’t mean the development is unwarranted.
Ultimately, Ace of Clubs is true to the series. It focuses on some of my least favorite parts so far, but considering the amount of thought and attention the story drew from me, it’s the characters I’m frustrated with rather than the story. I’m still looking forward to seeing how the pieces come together. What happens with Joe may be a deciding factor in my following through the whole series (an odd comment once you’ve read the book, but I have my reasons), but for the time being, I’m still sucked in and would feel the pain of threads left untied should I stop now.
P.S. I received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review…and have purchased my own copy.
June 12, 2018
Note: This is Book 3 in the series and the books really need to be read in order to get the plot.
So far, I have been luke warm about this series but finally here in Book 3 the story is growing on me. I finally have the setting down. Yay! Some distant major event dropped humanity down a few notches and we now have domed cities and dirigibles and women have very few rights. Jacqui finds these restrictions chaffing and she uses her talents to step outside those rules. And that is the main reason I like Jacqui. I find she’s a bit of a twit from time to time yet her character keeps drawing me back into this tale.
The plot picks up shortly after the events of Book 2. There’s a major inquest into the explosion that took out a dirigible and killed several people including a friend of Jacqui’s. More than one of the major families is under suspicion, including the Spadros. Even as the families pull into tight, defensive groups, Jacqui still has her own motivations and sometimes is a bit oblivious to the political dangers she’s straying into.
That is one of the things that still tickles at me. Supposedly Jacqui has been trained since the age of 12 to be a good Spadros spouse. Yet she still lacks some basics, like not knowing some Italian, who to invite to dinner without starting a war between families, etc. Perhaps she had bad teachers? But I tend to think that Jacqui can be a little dense in regards to such things. I can’t help but think that this part of her character could have been cleaned up a bit, sharpened, made clear.
Tony Spadros keeps earning my respect. He finally has some big reveals about his wife and her secret activities and contacts. I really wanted Jacqui and Tony to join forces and become a cohesive team to take on the world, but that didn’t happen. Instead Jacqui is still hung up on Joseph who is just as caught up in her. Joseph is still a stick figure. I wish we had more about his character. After 3 books, we still know little about him other than he has strong feelings for Jacqui.
The story ramps up as things start to fall apart for Jacqui. Most of her secrets have been pried out of the closet. Her list of allies and friends is dwindling. Her choices are narrowing. Even with that, she’s still holding onto her core values. The story does end on a cliff hanger. The fate of the main characters is all up in the air. 4/5 stars.
The Narration: Machelle Williams continues to improve. Her pacing is better in this book. The character voices are all distinct and her male character voices are masculine. She makes a good Jacqui Spadros. There were no issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Patricia Loofbourrow. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
So far, I have been luke warm about this series but finally here in Book 3 the story is growing on me. I finally have the setting down. Yay! Some distant major event dropped humanity down a few notches and we now have domed cities and dirigibles and women have very few rights. Jacqui finds these restrictions chaffing and she uses her talents to step outside those rules. And that is the main reason I like Jacqui. I find she’s a bit of a twit from time to time yet her character keeps drawing me back into this tale.
The plot picks up shortly after the events of Book 2. There’s a major inquest into the explosion that took out a dirigible and killed several people including a friend of Jacqui’s. More than one of the major families is under suspicion, including the Spadros. Even as the families pull into tight, defensive groups, Jacqui still has her own motivations and sometimes is a bit oblivious to the political dangers she’s straying into.
That is one of the things that still tickles at me. Supposedly Jacqui has been trained since the age of 12 to be a good Spadros spouse. Yet she still lacks some basics, like not knowing some Italian, who to invite to dinner without starting a war between families, etc. Perhaps she had bad teachers? But I tend to think that Jacqui can be a little dense in regards to such things. I can’t help but think that this part of her character could have been cleaned up a bit, sharpened, made clear.
Tony Spadros keeps earning my respect. He finally has some big reveals about his wife and her secret activities and contacts. I really wanted Jacqui and Tony to join forces and become a cohesive team to take on the world, but that didn’t happen. Instead Jacqui is still hung up on Joseph who is just as caught up in her. Joseph is still a stick figure. I wish we had more about his character. After 3 books, we still know little about him other than he has strong feelings for Jacqui.
The story ramps up as things start to fall apart for Jacqui. Most of her secrets have been pried out of the closet. Her list of allies and friends is dwindling. Her choices are narrowing. Even with that, she’s still holding onto her core values. The story does end on a cliff hanger. The fate of the main characters is all up in the air. 4/5 stars.
The Narration: Machelle Williams continues to improve. Her pacing is better in this book. The character voices are all distinct and her male character voices are masculine. She makes a good Jacqui Spadros. There were no issues with the recording. 4/5 stars.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Patricia Loofbourrow. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
November 6, 2017
I got this ARC from the author. I had the first book of this series in my TBR but I haven't read it. I decided to read this first and then go back to it. Honestly, I have no idea what the series is about. Somehow, my thought was this was some kind of story about families and rivalries. I have read a series which also have playing cards on the title and I thought this book would have the same theme or type of characters. True enough, my first impression was correct. This is about rivalries, families, and power.
As I said, I went on blind on this one. I would like to be surprised and I was surprised. I found this book very intriguing. It has its mystery, thrill and a host of various characters that will make you dizzy. The main character, Jacq, a very smart woman is one I really liked. I imagine her to be like Kare Warne, the first ever woman detective/spy. A woman in a world dominated by men, money and power. A world where wealthy families rule the land. She is a very strong character that I found myself rooting for. I want her to succeed and punished those guilty of crimes and treachery committed against Jacq and her friends.
Unexpectedly, I got riveted into this story. The plot and the dynamics of the characters was very intriguing and I just can't help myself wanting to know more. I expected to be confused and lost, knowing I started with the third book instead of the first. But I wasn't. This third installment contained enough information to keep me abreast of the story. It had supplied enough background data to make me understand how the story ended up in this current narrative. It seemed like I did not miss the first two books at all.
I had a theory as to the true identity of Jacq. I think her father may be the guy in the mask not really Peedro. Hmmmm...As to the perpetrator of the bombings and killings, I am not sure yet. I think I have to read book two.
I give this 4/5 ace of clubs cards. I found myself intrigued and willing to participate in this conspiracy. I wanted as much to be part of the story. I wanted to help Jacq unravel all the secrets and the connections. I can't wait for the next book and I felt bad because I did not have the second installment of this story. I just can't afford to miss it. Thank you, Miss Loofborrow, for the ARC. This is truly an engrossing work.
I think they love you as best as they can, you Daddy especially. But sometimes other things make it so they don't know how to love you very well.
- Patricia Loofborrow, The Ace of Clubs -
As I said, I went on blind on this one. I would like to be surprised and I was surprised. I found this book very intriguing. It has its mystery, thrill and a host of various characters that will make you dizzy. The main character, Jacq, a very smart woman is one I really liked. I imagine her to be like Kare Warne, the first ever woman detective/spy. A woman in a world dominated by men, money and power. A world where wealthy families rule the land. She is a very strong character that I found myself rooting for. I want her to succeed and punished those guilty of crimes and treachery committed against Jacq and her friends.
Unexpectedly, I got riveted into this story. The plot and the dynamics of the characters was very intriguing and I just can't help myself wanting to know more. I expected to be confused and lost, knowing I started with the third book instead of the first. But I wasn't. This third installment contained enough information to keep me abreast of the story. It had supplied enough background data to make me understand how the story ended up in this current narrative. It seemed like I did not miss the first two books at all.
I had a theory as to the true identity of Jacq. I think her father may be the guy in the mask not really Peedro. Hmmmm...As to the perpetrator of the bombings and killings, I am not sure yet. I think I have to read book two.
I give this 4/5 ace of clubs cards. I found myself intrigued and willing to participate in this conspiracy. I wanted as much to be part of the story. I wanted to help Jacq unravel all the secrets and the connections. I can't wait for the next book and I felt bad because I did not have the second installment of this story. I just can't afford to miss it. Thank you, Miss Loofborrow, for the ARC. This is truly an engrossing work.
I think they love you as best as they can, you Daddy especially. But sometimes other things make it so they don't know how to love you very well.
- Patricia Loofborrow, The Ace of Clubs -
October 16, 2017
After the colossal explosion of a zeppelin that killed her friend, an aristocrat who was allegedly defrauding prominent merchants in Bridges in concert with Frank Pagliacci, Jacqui is taken away to recover and grieve by her husband, Tony Spadros. Meanwhile, the Clubb Family, who own and control the Zeppelin depot, convene a coroner’s inquest to demand answers for the blast. Jacqui, who was never supposed to be at the zeppelin depot, is identified by witnesses and the Clubb Family inquisition is maliciously designed to focus squarely on her and the Spadros family.
Jacqui never understood why Roy Spadros forced her at gunpoint to marry his son, Tony five years before. Now, she doesn’t understand why Tony, who swears he has “split” with Roy Spadros and loves her exclusively has her watched everywhere she goes. She knows it is not for her protection as Tony claims. However, the entangled web is woven ever tighter as she discovers that even her most trusted servants are spies…and not for Tony.
But, then Tony has a secret; one he refuses to share with Jacqui. Jacqui and Joseph Kerr have a secret too; one neither Tony nor Roy can know about. She watches helplessly as Tony discovers her secrets one by one and ruins more of her friends. Without resources and bound between powerful men, she feels her only recourse is to run. Will she run into the arms of love, or into the arms of further manipulation and treachery?
The Ace of Clubs escapes the endless maze of awkward social networking that plagued The Queen of Diamonds. Somehow, there is more at stake; more intrigue, more actually happening in The Ace of Clubs. There is much less focus on the characters and their backgrounds and much more focus on what they actually do and their motives for doing it.
This is not to say the reader’s questions are all answered; far from it. But, readers can see more actions and consequences and there are intriguing mysteries brought into play, for example; who knew Tony had a brother? And what really happened to him? Readers are also allowed into Tony’s secret. Most probably suspected something like it from past books, but now we know.
In my opinion, The Ace of Clubs is a better book than its predecessors. The Red Dog Conspiracy gets a bit deeper with each book as does the social pit in which Jacqui finds herself. Overall, this is an excellent read for action, conspiracy, steam-punk and mystery buffs of all ages.
Jacqui never understood why Roy Spadros forced her at gunpoint to marry his son, Tony five years before. Now, she doesn’t understand why Tony, who swears he has “split” with Roy Spadros and loves her exclusively has her watched everywhere she goes. She knows it is not for her protection as Tony claims. However, the entangled web is woven ever tighter as she discovers that even her most trusted servants are spies…and not for Tony.
But, then Tony has a secret; one he refuses to share with Jacqui. Jacqui and Joseph Kerr have a secret too; one neither Tony nor Roy can know about. She watches helplessly as Tony discovers her secrets one by one and ruins more of her friends. Without resources and bound between powerful men, she feels her only recourse is to run. Will she run into the arms of love, or into the arms of further manipulation and treachery?
The Ace of Clubs escapes the endless maze of awkward social networking that plagued The Queen of Diamonds. Somehow, there is more at stake; more intrigue, more actually happening in The Ace of Clubs. There is much less focus on the characters and their backgrounds and much more focus on what they actually do and their motives for doing it.
This is not to say the reader’s questions are all answered; far from it. But, readers can see more actions and consequences and there are intriguing mysteries brought into play, for example; who knew Tony had a brother? And what really happened to him? Readers are also allowed into Tony’s secret. Most probably suspected something like it from past books, but now we know.
In my opinion, The Ace of Clubs is a better book than its predecessors. The Red Dog Conspiracy gets a bit deeper with each book as does the social pit in which Jacqui finds herself. Overall, this is an excellent read for action, conspiracy, steam-punk and mystery buffs of all ages.
January 3, 2018
I was honored to receive an advance copy of this book, and the resulting read was more than delightful. I was thrilled and glued to my chair (or bed, or whatever place I took the book with me) the whole time.
If you haven't read the previous book in this serial - you should probably correct this mistake. Do not get me wrong, you can understand what is going on in the book, but you will miss on lots of details that make the book so exquisitely intricate and complex. The whole dystopian, partly steampunk world is brilliantly built, complex and detailed, with every aspect aligned perfectly with the rest. The plot consists of several parallel storylines, uncovering the story slowly and with lots of surprises, twists, and suspense. Especially the mystery surrounding the main characters kept me on edge. Discovering that not everyone is who he or she seems to be makes great revelation moments in the story. It also creates such a unique feel, a distinctive atmosphere that I have connected to this series only and am able to identify it in a very short time. Which is a praise for the author and her writing style.
Aside from suspenseful storyline and great world building, this book (and the whole series) benefits from thorough character building. Each of the characters has unique personality, poses as a strong individual, has its own motives that are acted upon (although these motives might not be clear immediately), and is very much human with both strengths and flaws. The diversity and distinctiveness between the characters is enough to pick a favorite for everyone.
I am glad I had the opportunity to read the book and I am looking forward to read the next one in the series.
If you haven't read the previous book in this serial - you should probably correct this mistake. Do not get me wrong, you can understand what is going on in the book, but you will miss on lots of details that make the book so exquisitely intricate and complex. The whole dystopian, partly steampunk world is brilliantly built, complex and detailed, with every aspect aligned perfectly with the rest. The plot consists of several parallel storylines, uncovering the story slowly and with lots of surprises, twists, and suspense. Especially the mystery surrounding the main characters kept me on edge. Discovering that not everyone is who he or she seems to be makes great revelation moments in the story. It also creates such a unique feel, a distinctive atmosphere that I have connected to this series only and am able to identify it in a very short time. Which is a praise for the author and her writing style.
Aside from suspenseful storyline and great world building, this book (and the whole series) benefits from thorough character building. Each of the characters has unique personality, poses as a strong individual, has its own motives that are acted upon (although these motives might not be clear immediately), and is very much human with both strengths and flaws. The diversity and distinctiveness between the characters is enough to pick a favorite for everyone.
I am glad I had the opportunity to read the book and I am looking forward to read the next one in the series.
October 1, 2017
As far as I'm concerned, Patricia Loofbourrow is the Queen of steampunk noir. Nobody else does anything quite like what she does, and she does it so very very well. That's seen in Red Dog Conspiracy serial. I don't even like serials and avoid them like the plague generally, but I decided to try "just a few pages" of Part 1, The Jacq of Spades, and ended up reading the whole thing - and getting obsessively hooked as a result. Part 2, The Queen of Diamonds, was even better and now the Ace of Clubs ups the ante yet again. Jacqueline Spadros is a wonderfully flawed, talented, fantastic heroine and the cast of supporting characters in this serial is superb. The plot is building the thrills and suspense while it keeps getting more and more layered and complex, yet it's somehow easy enough to follow. We are getting closer and closer to finding out the ultimate goals of the Red Dog Gang, and to hopefully giving Jacqui what she needs to actually counter them. Exciting stuff. Exciting book and - so long as you're willing to accept that this is just Part 3 and will end in a cliffhanger - highly recommended.
One caveat: you could start with this book but I strongly recommended that you start with Part 1 and read it and Part 2 first. They're truly excellent. Without them you'll correctly feel like you're missing too much background and the impact of events in this book won't be nearly as powerful.
One caveat: you could start with this book but I strongly recommended that you start with Part 1 and read it and Part 2 first. They're truly excellent. Without them you'll correctly feel like you're missing too much background and the impact of events in this book won't be nearly as powerful.
October 2, 2017
In The Ace of Clubs, Jacqui Spadros must deal with the fallout from the events at the end of The Queen of Diamonds. Not only does it look like she will have to serve as a witness, but some mysteries and secrets begin to unravel around her.
Patricia Loufbourrow does not disappoint with this third installment of The Red Dog Conspiracy. As much as I loved parts 1 and 2, this one roped me in even more. Her development of her main character, Jacqui, is phenomenal. While definitely a strong woman, her vulnerability shows in this novel, making her more rounded than your average kick-ass heroine. I also like that Loufbourrow unveils some pieces of the mysteries while giving us new ones to consider for later works.
Though there has been improvement since the first book, I still feel some of the transitions between the action and Jacqui’s memories could be smoother. Also, while I don’t think it completely necessary, it may help to read the series prequel The Alcatraz Coup first to better understand some of the character references.
The Red Dog Conspiracy series is very engrossing and draws you in more and more with each installment. It is not a series that resolves matters at the end of each book, but is definitely worth the wait.
Patricia Loufbourrow does not disappoint with this third installment of The Red Dog Conspiracy. As much as I loved parts 1 and 2, this one roped me in even more. Her development of her main character, Jacqui, is phenomenal. While definitely a strong woman, her vulnerability shows in this novel, making her more rounded than your average kick-ass heroine. I also like that Loufbourrow unveils some pieces of the mysteries while giving us new ones to consider for later works.
Though there has been improvement since the first book, I still feel some of the transitions between the action and Jacqui’s memories could be smoother. Also, while I don’t think it completely necessary, it may help to read the series prequel The Alcatraz Coup first to better understand some of the character references.
The Red Dog Conspiracy series is very engrossing and draws you in more and more with each installment. It is not a series that resolves matters at the end of each book, but is definitely worth the wait.
October 5, 2019
There was an album long ago entitled Everything You Knoow IsWrong...and that is how I felt after the delicious twists turns and revelations concerning our by now beloved characters. An outstanding read and a cliff hanger that makes us impatient after leaving us surprised and uncertain as this wonderful author's spellbinding story unfolds. Another great read
October 3, 2017
The Ace of Clubs is the third chapter of the Red Dog Conspiracy Series. A steampunk noir novel that is exclusive, flawlessly written, well crafted, complex & intricately detailed world building descriptions & settings. Characters are complex, well seasoned & leap off of the pages & into your heart strings. A perfect addition to the series that ends with a What The Frick! Oh My Gosh! Oh My Star's & Garter! & to top it off with whipped cream & a cherry on top it will leave you spellbinded. A must read Steampunk Noir Series that draws you in & keeps you captivated & will have you treasuring forever. I volunteerily reviewed an advanced reading copy of this book.
October 7, 2017
Another good book in the series. But.
This series is very well written and the plotting in it is intricate and fascinating. However, I did not give it 5 stars because there is one critical flaw which hopefully the future books will correct. Because of the time lapse between the various books, it is hard to remember everything that went on before in the past works. I would suggest that the author have a prologue in future books that briefly summarizes those prior events. It would make reading the latest book more enjoyable by doing away with constantly trying to remember the who, what, when, and why of what came before this latest novel.
This series is very well written and the plotting in it is intricate and fascinating. However, I did not give it 5 stars because there is one critical flaw which hopefully the future books will correct. Because of the time lapse between the various books, it is hard to remember everything that went on before in the past works. I would suggest that the author have a prologue in future books that briefly summarizes those prior events. It would make reading the latest book more enjoyable by doing away with constantly trying to remember the who, what, when, and why of what came before this latest novel.
October 3, 2017
Ace of Clubs is the third book in the series of the Red Dog Conspiracy. The story keeps the action going and the mystery deepens. Jacqi is being used by everyone and her world is falling apart. Accused of bombing a zeppelin and killing hundreds, she is on her own and still searching for the killer who wants to ruin everything she holds dear. She is floundering and must trust herself, but is she the key to saving her city? Only the next book will tell.
The book is well written and fleshes out the heroine nicely. I enjoyed this series so far and will be excited to see the next book.
The book is well written and fleshes out the heroine nicely. I enjoyed this series so far and will be excited to see the next book.
September 28, 2017
The Ace of Clubs is my fourth read from author Patricia Loofbourrow, following The Jacq of Spades, Tony and Roy, The Alcatraz Coup& The Queen of Diamonds; obviously, I’m enamored with the story & the writing. An enjoyable, detailed, well-written book in which many questions are answered, details divulged, with memorable, engaging characters. Captivating, spine-tingling read, I'll be reading more from this author and I look forward to the next book in this series.
September 10, 2018
Who did it
Another great book by Patricia Loofbourrow. Jacqui tries to continue her investigative business but is hampered by her husband and his goal to keep her safe. Lies and deception follow her and soon she is very much in danger. Who is the guilty one? Can she gain freedom to be with her true love? The conspiracy continues. Many characters and at times I had to go back and figure out who someone was. I find myself truly liking Jacqui and Tony.
Another great book by Patricia Loofbourrow. Jacqui tries to continue her investigative business but is hampered by her husband and his goal to keep her safe. Lies and deception follow her and soon she is very much in danger. Who is the guilty one? Can she gain freedom to be with her true love? The conspiracy continues. Many characters and at times I had to go back and figure out who someone was. I find myself truly liking Jacqui and Tony.
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October 12, 2017The Plot Thickens....
I liked the convoluted plot and the cunning of The Families. Jac gets deeper and deeper into the plots that swirl around her, and she knows that her life is in danger. The books get better and better as the power play increases. I can't wait for the next one.
I liked the convoluted plot and the cunning of The Families. Jac gets deeper and deeper into the plots that swirl around her, and she knows that her life is in danger. The books get better and better as the power play increases. I can't wait for the next one.
April 7, 2018
Jacqueline Knocked Over The Hornets Nest.
What ever Jacqueline did caused harm or death to everyone she knows. She investigates who killed and hurt her friends and plots her escape.
What ever Jacqueline did caused harm or death to everyone she knows. She investigates who killed and hurt her friends and plots her escape.
October 4, 2017
What another superb book in this totally mind blowing series. When you think a book can't get better it does. Once it's available, no one should miss reading this book or the other two.
April 30, 2018
3rd book in the series and it's the best one yet. An intricate story of crime families that don't fully trust one another.
May 26, 2018
i so love this series!
The story continues so well....I can't wait to read the next installment. I have some suspicions...it will be fun to see if I'm right!
The story continues so well....I can't wait to read the next installment. I have some suspicions...it will be fun to see if I'm right!
September 29, 2021
Intriguing and probably my favorite!
Loofbourrow pens an intriguing and magnificent story in The Ace of Clubs, book three of the Red Dog Conspiracy series. This author has a great imagination and I'm glad it's being shared with stories. I enjoyed the first two parts of this, but I think this is my favorite of all of them. I love Jaqui, and her secrets that weren't just her own, are about to be exposed, and then the story takes it from there. It's character-driven and written with passion. It's very unpredictable, and it was a hard book to put down. This author is not just a writer but a great storyteller. The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This read is more than just words on a page. The Ace of Clubs is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
Loofbourrow pens an intriguing and magnificent story in The Ace of Clubs, book three of the Red Dog Conspiracy series. This author has a great imagination and I'm glad it's being shared with stories. I enjoyed the first two parts of this, but I think this is my favorite of all of them. I love Jaqui, and her secrets that weren't just her own, are about to be exposed, and then the story takes it from there. It's character-driven and written with passion. It's very unpredictable, and it was a hard book to put down. This author is not just a writer but a great storyteller. The author's technique of raw, magnetic characters and great plotlines is a gift. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This read is more than just words on a page. The Ace of Clubs is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
May 21, 2019
Read the books in the series in order. My only fault is they aren't completely stand alone stories. You have to know the backstory, schemes, and assorted scoundrels involved for this steampunk, mafia-like, mystery, crime thriller, who-dun-it.
The author has both a serious imagination and either great note taking skills or a remarkable memory. To weave the countless plots, and sub-plots, and schemes poor Jacq must contend with is quite a skill! No wonder Jacq feels as if she'll go mad if she doesn't leave Bridges!
The author has both a serious imagination and either great note taking skills or a remarkable memory. To weave the countless plots, and sub-plots, and schemes poor Jacq must contend with is quite a skill! No wonder Jacq feels as if she'll go mad if she doesn't leave Bridges!
October 24, 2020
Poor Jacqui just can’t catch a break! Just when things are all figured out and it looks like smooth sailing—up pops a monkey wrench and spoils everything!! Loved the character development in this one—and I want to see this series as a TV show one day!!
January 13, 2025
A very complex and twisty plot. Multiple events which initially seem unrelated do come together slowly as the intrigue builds. A good read though a little hard to follow at times. Some of the ‘why’ questions remain unanswered. Hopefully the next episode will reveal the answers.
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