A Rock and a Hard Place
DCI Logan Book 21
ISBN 9781835983010
ASIN B0DMT2GHF9
I discovered the writing of J.D. Kirk in 2022, since then I have read over 50 volumes across three different pen names. I picked the first for a few reasons, but mainly because authors Alex Smith and JE Mayhew have both recommended the author and series. I am a big fan of Smith’s DCI Kett novels and Mayhew’s DCI Will Blake Series. I have been hooked since that first read. Kirk also publishes under the names Barry Hutchison and Barry J, Hutchison. I have now read the first 19 in the DCI Logan series and all 4 in the Robert Hoon series, The first two in the DI Heather Filson series as well as stand alone VIP exclusive short story.
I had no idea how addictive Kirk’s books would be or that like Mayhew and Smith, Kirk publishes under three different names. Kirk publishes children books as Barry Hutchison, and other adult fiction as Barry J. Hutchison. He has published over 200 books across the three pen names. If I had known that or I might not have picked up this first one. Friends call me a ‘completionist’ in that when I find an author I like, I try to read everything they have published. Being caught up now on his works as J.D. Kirk I will have to wait for each new one to come out, and this volume was well worth the weight.
The description of this novel is:
“DCI Jack Logan is back!
When washed-up 80s rock legend Johnny Freestone is found dead in a cave off Scotland's North Coast 500 tourist route, it looks like a tragic accident – another celebrity lost to a reckless lifestyle.
But Police Scotland detective – and secret Freestone fan – Jack Logan isn’t convinced that the star's death was an accident. As Logan delves into Johnny's final days, he uncovers a trail of bitter rivalries, broken promises, and a comeback tour that wasn’t quite what it seemed.
With the Highlands’ rugged backdrop as the stage, Logan must unravel a web of secrets and lies that entangles everyone from music studios to old flames, and find out who wanted the self-styled 'voice of a generation' silenced for good.
Somewhere between a rock and a hard place, the truth waits to be unearthed...”
This story is very different than the rest of the series. It starts with Logan still on leave. First it was a leave while he was under investigation. And then he kept delaying coming back. And for the first time and for much of the book, Logan seems to lack his normal confidence, his self-assurance, and he is suffering from self-doubt. Detective Superintendent Mitchell is giving him an opportunity. And Jack has to decide if he is up for it, and if so, will he regain some of his footing. As he assists and advises on this case we get a deep look at Logan’s inner workings. It is clear he is suffering from PTSD, and struggling with deep regrets. The question is will working a case brink back the old Jack or push him over the ledge.
I read most of this while travelling over the Christmas holidays. A lot of car reading, and late night reading after others were in bed. This is another great read in an excellent series. But part of its greatness is we see more of the man and less of the officer in this one. We also see those near and dear to him striving to see him make it back. I love the three series written under the pen name J.D. Kirk and they are definitely Scottish Mysteries, or Scottish Police Crime novels. This book and series would be great reads for fans of Jack Reacher, Jack Ryan, or Temperance Brennan. I state it again this is a great read in a dark and gritty series!
Books by J.D. Kirk:
…
DCI Logan Series:
Robert Hoon Thrillers:
DI Heather Filson Series:
Contributed to:
Everyday Kindness: A Collection of Uplifting Tales to Brighten Your Day
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Books as Barry J. Hutchison:
Dan Deadman Space Detective Series:
…
Space Team Series:
The Search for Splurt
Song of the Space Siren
The Guns of Nana Joan
Return of the Dead Guy
Planet of the Japes
The Time Titan of Tomorrow
The King of Space Must Die
Sting of the Mustard Mines
Sentienced to Death
The Hunt for Reduk Topa
…
A Lot of Weird Space Shizz: Collected Short Stories
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Sidekicks Initiative Series:
The Bug Books Series:
Episode 1
Episode 2
Episode 3
…
Complete Season One
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Other Books:
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Children’s books as Barry Hutchison:
Invisible Fiends Series:
The Crowmaster
Doc Mortis
The Beast
The Darkest Corners
…
Afterworlds:
The Missing Remote of the Apocalypse
The Book of Doom
...
Benjamin Blank Series:
…
Beaky Malone Series:
…
Generator Rex Series:
Other works:
…


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