• 1989

  • What Happens When a Killer Returns for Revenge
  • By: James E. Smith
  • Narrated by: Austin Wright
  • Length: 8 hrs and 32 mins
  • 4.3 out of 5 stars (7 ratings)

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1989  By  cover art

1989

By: James E. Smith
Narrated by: Austin Wright
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Publisher's summary

For three years, a serial killer known as the Penny Murderer terrified Monroe, Georgia. His signature was leaving a note on the body starting with "A penny for your thoughts". Detective Mike Allen and his team tracked down and arrested Samuel Johnson for 12 murders. Throughout the trial and even after his conviction, Johnson always proclaimed his innocence. The controversial trial divided the city, and things exploded when he was found dead in his cell shortly afterward. A cover-up?

Old ghosts are awakened almost 30 years later when Allen's original partner on the Johnson case, Marcus Jones, is found dead. Attorney Nicole Jones, Marcus' wife, starts to be suspected of his murder, so she goes on a dark journey to find out who really killed her husband and why. She experiences a roller coaster of emotions upon learning that both he and former partner Mike Allen had kept many disturbing secrets from her.

Meanwhile, Allen's own investigation takes him in a different direction as he tries to solve who murdered Marcus, all while dealing with a new partner who not only questions his every move, but also the actions taken during the original investigation. Is this a new killer? Or did they get it wrong all those years ago and send an innocent man to jail...?

In this compelling novel, complex characters and unexpected plot twists will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to figure out what will happen next.

©2021 James Smith (P)2022 James Smith

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Listener received this title free

Thrilling Suspense with plot twists

“A penny for your thoughts” is a terrifying adage for the people of Monroe, Georgia. The Penny Murderer left this adage on a note as his signature until the arrest of Samuel Johnson. The serial killer had been convicted and all was well until 30 years later when The Penny Murderer shows back up!

The author, James E. Smith weaves an intriguing and action-packed serial killer thriller where corruption and secrets play an integral role. Deliberate character development and plot structure enable the author to build plot twists that leave the listener spellbound. The story itself could pass as an authentic true-crime thriller easily. It was easy to become engrossed in the story

The narrator, Austin Wright delivers an intense narration giving unique and expressive voices to each character. He speaks clearly and moves the story forward at a steady pace. I enjoyed his performance.

Overall this is a very good thriller with moments of suspense and intensity. If you enjoy crime drama, this is a must-listen!

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  • Overall
    3 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars

meh. just meh.

the story was okay but the writing wasn't. repetitive lines and missing something that I can't put my finger on

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

great first book, can't wait for another

Definitely a thought provoking subtext. classic whi dunnit and awesome plot twists. greatly recommend.

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