Killing Hope

Gabe Quinn Thriller, Book 1

By: Keith Houghton

Narrated by: David Doersch

Length: 12 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

When homicide detective Gabe Quinn returns to the Los Angeles streets after the senseless murder of his wife Hope, he thinks he's fought off all the demons that life can throw his way. But his first case back may prove to be his last.

A repeat killer is in town. A killer who is on a personal mission to bring Gabe to his knees, luring him into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

With the body count rising and new killings popping up in Vegas, Gabe comes up against an FBI outfit eager to snatch the investigation away from him. But the killer hasn't finished playing with Gabe just yet. It's time to take the killings to the next level and make them even more personal. It's time to make Gabe pay for the mistakes of his past and choose between life and death.

One man stands in the way of murder.

One man will try to stop him.

Only one will succeed. 

Could you kill someone to save countless lives?

Author's note: The backstory in Killing Hope continues into the second book Crossing Lines, and then into the third book Taking Liberty. To enjoy the whole nail-biting experience as intended, I recommend listening to the Gabe Quinn thrillers in numerical order.

©2011 Keith Houghton (P)2014 Keith Houghton

Great until the ending destroyed all hope!

This was indeed a fast pace thriller I liked very much until the end. In fact, the end made no sense, causing to me feel sure I'd missed something important. I was giving it at least 4 stars for great characters and good police work, but the ending ruined the whole experience for me.

David Doersch was excellent as the narrator.

Despite the two stars, I'll definitely give the author a second shot.

Amazing Fast Paced Thriller!!!

If you could sum up Killing Hope in three words, what would they be?

Exhilarating, Relentless, Shocking!

What other book might you compare Killing Hope to and why?

This is a crime thriller which some compare to the likes of James Patterson. And while I think that is a good comparison to explain to you the type of book this is, I personally feel that this book far exceeds Patterson or any other writers I've read in this genre. In fact, it is hands down the best thriller of its kind that I have read. Easily the best! I read the book first on Kindle and was overjoyed to find out it had been made into an audible book. In fact, this book is the very reason that I finally started an audible subscription! Just like the first time I read the book, I was so sad when it was over because I wanted it to never end! The ending is shocking and mind blowing which is not something that can be said of many other books in this category. It is unforgettable and I can't wait until books 2 and 3 of this series also come to audible. I will definitely be buying them the day they come out.

What about David Doersch’s performance did you like?

Having read the Kindle book first, it was really fun to hear good ole Gabe Quinn come to life! I enjoyed his gruff, Southern accent and thought David Doersch did a great job with all the characters and he certainly did this book justice with his performance.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

What really stood out to me pretty much immediately when reading/hearing this book is the way Keith Houghton describes the scenes. He does it in a way that really makes you feel like you're right there with Detective Quinn! The weather, the atmosphere, the setting...it's all l laid out in great detail without an over-abundance of words. That is what certainly impressed me right away. He is able to capture a moment and a feeling so descriptively, yet so concisely that it's a very noticeable and striking contrast to most books I've read.

Any additional comments?

The ending of this book literally had my head spinning. I just COULD NOT BELIEVE what I was reading! I had read a long string of crime thrillers prior to picking up Killing Hope and since I almost always guess the end of such books, I was so sure I knew who the killer was in this one too. That is, until the ending actually came and practically hit me over the head like a ton of bricks! It was such a great thrill to be genuinely flabbergasted and gobsmacked!

I cannot recommend this book enough and I highly encourage everyone to pick up this audible book and also the Kindle edition. You'll be left wanting more and thankfully there are 2 more to dive right into on Kindle - Crossing Lines and Taking Liberty. Hopefully those will soon follow on audible. Unbelievably, Keith's books just get better and better. I have no idea how he does it and I'm so happy to have discovered this wonderful writer. I feel a slight tinge of jealousy for people who are reading Killing Hope for the first time!

Excellent first book in a series

Wow, the undertaker is an unusually public and prolific serial killer and Gabe Quinn is an unusual celebrity cop who is guilty of excessive introspection and self blame. I enjoyed this book but still had issues awarding it 4 stars rather than 3. The next two books in this series are much higher rated so I look forward to listening to them. Killing Hope is my third novel by this author. He is very talented.

A gripping story

Where does Killing Hope rank among all the audiobooks you’ve listened to so far?

This is the first audio book I have listened to, so I guess that makes it the best.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

The plot is full of twists and turns, Gabe Quinn is a great lead character, he is a flawed person, not some perfect super-cop like some books and movies have for their lead. You never know just what Gabe or the killer, will do next.

What does David Doersch bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

David Doersch does a fantastic job of bringing the story and characters to life, he breaths personality into every one of the characters in the book in a way that can be hard to imagine if you are reading it yourself.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Although the book is a crime story, there were moments while I was listening that I found myself having a little chuckle at some of the lighter or funnier parts of the book.

Any additional comments?

Some of the reviewers of the book have complained that the book leaves loose ends, I don't mind that, I very much enjoyed the book, there is two more books in the series so far and I have read those, the loose ends are what leave way for the additional stories. Besides, since when does real life wrap everything up neatly with a bow at the end of a week or month?
If you enjoy a good mystery then this audio book is for you, it is a good mystery right up to the end, as it keeps you guessing.

BEGINNING OF A GOOD SERIES!

Although I think this is a good series, I had a hard time keeping up with the characters in this first book. There were parts that were just ho-hum so I found my mind wandering and would have to go back and listen again. I managed to get through this first book because I wanted to listen to the other two in the series. I'm so glad I did! The last two were excellent. I did enjoy David Doersch's narrating talents on all three books. I would highly recommend starting with the first book since it does build character base.

Brilliant

So far, this is my absolute favorite book ever. It kept me on the edge of my seat from front to back. The narrator that I listened to was absolutely the best narrator I've ever heard, can't wait to read the rest of the series

Great Start to a New Series

I don't always leave reviews, but feel this new series deserves a recommendation. I really like the narration by David Doersch. He is now one of my favorite narrators.

The story is long and at times a tab slow, but is worth the listen or read. You really get to know the main character as the plot develops. There are twists and turns throughout the book. May be a little far fetched but it is fiction after all.

Bottom line: I'm looking forward to starting the next book. The quality of the narrative is great! The series will be one that order matters. Worth taking a chance on a new author if you are not familiar with Keith Houghton.

Intriguing throughout

This was much better than I expected. I could not put it down. I listened to the audible version, which I think really brings out the best of this book. My only complaint is that there was a lot of killing, but then, it is a detective story.

Surprisingly unpredictable!

Loved it, and I was delighted to be surprised with the reveal of the Undertaker.

Very entertaining

Maybe a little bit cheesy at times and wasn't mind blowingly fantastic, but really well written, and performed. I was very drawn to the characters, even the minor characters, and found myself really wanting to get to know them better. Immediately ordered the second in the series upon finishing this one.

loved this book.

What made the experience of listening to Killing Hope the most enjoyable?

I genuinely didn't have a clue who the killer was.

What did you like best about this story?

The story flowed and moved at quite a good pace. No unnecessary padding to make the story longer. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be watching out for further stories from Keith Houghton.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

The final scene where you find out who the killed is. Brilliant...I had absolutely no idea whatsoever.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I was shocked at the reveal.

Any additional comments?

I can definitely highly recommend this audio book it kept me gripped. I listened to it over a two day period. Wish he'd written more. I'll be watching out for any new novels. Thank you Keith for keeping me entertained.

Nail biting, seat gripping great!!

What did you like most about Killing Hope?

This has to be the best audio book I have listened to by far. When we read a book for the first time, at some subconscious level we make assumptions about the characters we encounter, the type of people they are, their accents and even the way they look. If the author is as skilled, as Mr Houghton undoubtedly is, then it becomes much easier to envisage the faces and mannerism of the characters. With the help of Mr Doersch on the audio they paint a full 4D picture of the characters and their changing surroundings. Molding them into real people we can relate to, with quirky character traits and flaws. This all adds to the listening experience giving us "people" we can believe in and locations we can almost reach out and touch. Killing Hope is a wonderful journey we take with Gabe at a good pace, speeding up when necessary until at break neck speed it plunges down to the final conclusion leaving us gasping for more.

What did you like best about this story?

There are so many great characters in this book it is literally packed with original yet familiar types that keep our interest and deserve us rooting for them or not depending on which character we look at but I guess for me it would have to be the main character Gabe Quinn. He is pure gold for Mr Houghton. Every author's dream must surely be to create such a believable and charismatic character as him. He has the full package. A tough cop who's got that vulnerable side we all can relate to and secretly love. We know he's flawed by life and often playing catch up to the killer but we also know he'll get there in the end and most importantly, take us step by step with him. He's the guy we can trust and as this compelling story unfolds, we happily grab Gabe's hand and travel from state to state following the clues.

Which scene did you most enjoy?

There were several of course but I guess if I had to choose it would be the final scenes which I won't spoil. Having said that, Mr Houghton has such a powerful command of the descriptive that every scene is laid out before you with such conviction and detail that you feel you could almost close your eyes and in a leap of faith, step forward into the streets of Vegas or the suburbs of Los Angeles.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Again there were several. I don't want to say to much to spoil it for others but the book was so well written that anyone who is capable of empathy can feel the emotions coursing through the characters. From the killer as a child and his journey to Gabe and the profound loss that will never leave him. Every very human characteristic is laid bare and touches those of us that have empathy with the characters. This is a skill not all authors possess but Mr Houghton has in spades.

Any additional comments?

Mr Doersch was the perfect narrator. His accents enhanced the characters and kept them true to Mr Houghton's descriptions. Once I heard the audio and that wonderful Southern droll then the brilliant Matthew McConaughey popped into my mind and everything fell into place. When they do the movie he would be perfect! I would like to end my review by wishing Mr Houghton every success for the future. Having been lucky enough to find the Gabe Quinn family, I feel part of a very select club. To be in at the start of this brilliant authors career is like buying into Apple when most people thought, Granny Smith!

Killing hope - good book

Would you say that listening to this book was time well-spent? Why or why not?

Yes definitely enjoyed, narration was excellent

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

Wouldn't have changed a thing enjoyed book

What about David Doersch’s performance did you like?

Performance was excellent

Was Killing Hope worth the listening time?

Yes definitely

Any additional comments?

None

Superb!

What did you like most about Killing Hope?

An absolute roller coaster journey of twists and turns. Thoroughly enjoyable book, which keeps you guessing all the way!

What was one of the most memorable moments of Killing Hope?

Now that is a hard question! There were so many great moments that I can't put it down to just one memorable moment... Read the book or list to the Audible version - you will NOT regret it.

Have you listened to any of David Doersch’s other performances? How does this one compare?

No I haven't and I did find the read more enjoyable than the audible version. The overall story is so brilliant that I can't take away points, but unfortunately I did personally find David Doersch lacked emotion in his voice, everything seemed to be read on a 'level' and yes I know he was reading a script, but I think its best to try and add to the suspense with your performance in the reading?

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It certainly made me gasp with a few Ewww's! too!

Any additional comments?

I love Keith Houghton's writing style and love the idea of the audible book, but think perhaps a different narrator would be better. It is certainly great to have the choice to listen / read. A great thing to have a book read to you when you're driving to while away your time.

Not good as written book

What could have made this a 4 or 5-star listening experience for you?

I read Killing Hope and enjoyed it immensely and was given the opportunity to have it as an audio book. This was my first audio book but as I listen to radio I expected a similar pleasant experience However I found the narration so lacking in emotion and lack-lustre it ruined the story completely. The voice, with a kind of American south accent, was dull, he sounded bored to tears. I didnt finish the audio, unlike when I read the book I couldnt put it down. Having read the book already had nothing to do with not finishing the audio as I often read books more than once. Buy the book - it's a cracking read!

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

Didnt finish the audio. The book ended brilliantly after a roller coaster read.

What didn’t you like about David Doersch’s performance?

Dull, lacking emotion, boring.

You didn’t love this book--but did it have any redeeming qualities?

I loved the book but not as audio.

Any additional comments?

Keith Houghton is a good author and Gabe Quinn a believable character, I thoroughly recommend Killing Hope and the two follow up books.

Full of cliches with an unconvincing protagonist

Would you try another book written by Keith Houghton or narrated by David Doersch?

Probably not another Houghton book but Doersch was good.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

I found the ending contrived and unconvincing

What does David Doersch bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

The narration was very well done with convincing American accents

Do you think Killing Hope needs a follow-up book? Why or why not?

It is left so a follow up us inevitable which seemed slightly false to me.

Any additional comments?

I took exception to the vast number of gumshoe cliches spouted by the lead character. Even "my mouth tasted like something had creapt in and died." It forced me to re-read a Raymond Chandler for wisecracks which still seem fresh.

Killing Me With Dullness!

As predictable as a night following day! You will find more depth in a puddle. This has been written with straight to DVD film in mind. Please don't pen book 2 Mr Houghton because I already know the story line................

All rounder

Loved this book kept you guessing to the end it was quite a twist. I'll look forward to discovering more.

Annoyingly predictable in parts.

I should have realised that the fact this was labelled part 1 would mean that even after so many Chapters there would be no satisfactory resolution and therefore a need to purchase the next part.
The author managed to create such a feeling of paranoia in the reader that everyone was a suspect!
The narrator had the right tone and speed of delivery much better than many of those I have listened to on Audible previously. I have difficulty with Lorelei King if that helps with my perspective.
Not sure about the numerous chapter divisions but as the story kept jumping about they were necessary.
Left annoyed by some very predictable & therefore avoidable incidents but I suppose that was the author's way of showing the fallibility of the characters. It was like when watching a movie the audience knows what the inevitable outcome of the chain of circumstances will be so they keep hoping that there will be someone with common sense who will save the day- almost to the point of shouting at the screen or in this case mentally shouting "idiot" at some of the characters!
Not sure whether I enjoyed it but certainly some interesting concepts as well as loose ends for the next part..
If you have nothing better to do on a wet Friday then lounge & listen.
Now I need to decide whether to use a credit on Part 2.

Very disappointed

Packed full of crime & cop cliches. A ponderous plot that had such a ridiculous twist it wasn't a shock it was just annoying .
The main character is confusing. It's almost impossible to find anything endearing in him. He's not funny, not charming, not a tough guy and he got absolutely everything wrong in the investigation and hunt for the killer.
There were a couple of major incidents along the way that just got written then ignored. A priest was decapitated, in an act that was nothing to do with the main story and the event was barely mentioned, certainly not concluded, in the rest of the book, very odd.
I felt like it was an author who really wanted to write crime but who's ambition significantly it weighs their talent. Sorry, not for me.