The Shadows of Pike Place

A Thomas Austin Crime Thriller, Book 2

By: D.D. Black

Narrated by: Joe Hempel

Sometimes, the past is better left buried.

When the matriarch of a rich Seattle family dies under suspicious circumstances, private investigator Thomas Austin is on the case. This time, the suspect list is easy.

Seven people were in the lakefront mansion with the millionaire when she died: a spoiled son, a jealous brother-in-law, a beloved chef, a rebellious grandson, an arrogant memoirist, and a pair of successful daughters. All had motive. All had opportunity. But which one is the killer?

To solve the case, Austin must look into the past of one of Seattle's most powerful families. With the help of a fiery reporter and a long-lost diary, he uncovers a series of dark secrets that betray the criminal underbelly of old-money Seattle.

But the closer Austin gets to the truth, the more dangerous the investigation becomes. Sometimes, when you dig into a secret past, the past comes out to bury you.

Classic detective fiction meets a Pacific Northwest setting in this crime thriller perfect for fans of Mary Stone, Michael Connelly, James Patterson, and Victor Methos.

©2022 D.D. Black (P)2022 D.D. Black

Like an Agatha Christie!

Second in series, and while not quite as good or intense as the first one, it was still enjoyable. I'll definitely continue with the series. The aspect of this book I liked best was how much it reminded me of an Agatha Christie book in terms of story line. Characters are likable and realistic. Very good narrator.

good read

enjoyed good read kept my interest. the story was nit like some older the top and unbelievable .

Good Book

Good story and enough twists to keep us interested. I really like how the author doesn’t need sex or bad language. Just a good, enjoyable book to listen to. Good narration as well.

Very pleased

I have just found this author and these books. Love the characters! Really enjoying these

The development of the relationships

I have a problem when the narrator says repeatedly, “he said, “ or “she said,” when it is obvious from the context who is speaking. Quite distracting.

l Another hit by D D Black

I love, love, love this series. The Washington settings. Austin. what not to love.

The mystery

Loved the entire story and the performance. Kept you on the edge of your seat.

Pike place

Enjoyed the story DD
Welcome to paradise of Kitsap county Penninsula
Feels like you’re getting to know the PNW and it’s a fun quick read or listen
The ferry is part of highway system thus parking on ferry is in traffic lanes, parked for crossing
Garage NOT

Great story, Easy follow

Story was good with twists and unique turns. Easy read but monotone voice on Audible. Overall good purchase and completely worth the follow up for a series.

Review

The Shadows of Pike Place was a solid read overall, and I’d give it 4 stars. What stood out most to me was the character development—especially the growth of the main characters. I really enjoyed seeing how they evolved throughout the story, and that emotional depth helped ground the narrative.

As for the mystery/thriller aspect, it was a bit hit or miss for me. There were moments that definitely pulled me in and kept me curious, but other parts felt a little flat or predictable. That said, D.D. Black’s writing style is easy to follow, and the pacing kept me moving through the book without feeling bogged down.

While the suspense didn’t always land for me, the character arcs made it worthwhile. If you're someone who values strong, evolving protagonists over constant high-stakes twists, this one is worth checking out. It didn’t quite grip me like The Bones at Point No Point, but I still enjoyed the read and will continue the series.