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Detective Harriet Blue #3
Liar Liar
Detective Harriet Blue is clear about two things. Regan Banks deserves to die. And she’ll be the one to pull the trigger.
But Regan – the vicious serial killer responsible for destroying her brother’s life – has gone to ground.
Suddenly, her phone rings. It’s him. Regan.
‘Catch me if you can,’ he tells her.
Harriet needs to find this killing machine fast, even if the cost is her own life. So she follows him down the Australian south coast with only one thing on her mind.
Revenge is coming – and its name is Harriet Blue …
But Regan – the vicious serial killer responsible for destroying her brother’s life – has gone to ground.
Suddenly, her phone rings. It’s him. Regan.
‘Catch me if you can,’ he tells her.
Harriet needs to find this killing machine fast, even if the cost is her own life. So she follows him down the Australian south coast with only one thing on her mind.
Revenge is coming – and its name is Harriet Blue …
368 pages, Hardcover
First published July 26, 2018
About the author
James Patterson
1,552 books346k followersOfficial US Site
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time. He is the creator of unforgettable characters and series, including Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride, and of breathtaking true stories about the Kennedys, John Lennon, and Tiger Woods, as well as our military heroes, police officers, and ER nurses. Patterson has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, and collaborated most recently with Michael Crichton on the blockbuster Eruption. He has told the story of his own life in James Patterson by James Patterson and received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
Official UK Site
JIMMY Patterson Books
ReadKiddoRead
James Patterson is the most popular storyteller of our time. He is the creator of unforgettable characters and series, including Alex Cross, the Women’s Murder Club, Jane Smith, and Maximum Ride, and of breathtaking true stories about the Kennedys, John Lennon, and Tiger Woods, as well as our military heroes, police officers, and ER nurses. Patterson has coauthored #1 bestselling novels with Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, and collaborated most recently with Michael Crichton on the blockbuster Eruption. He has told the story of his own life in James Patterson by James Patterson and received an Edgar Award, ten Emmy Awards, the Literarian Award from the National Book Foundation, and the National Humanities Medal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 882 reviews
February 16, 2019
I disliked, "Never Never," passed on, "Fifty Fifty," and should have done the same with "Liar Liar." Gag Gag. 0 of 10 stars
July 20, 2018
Pre-review warning - do not read any further unless you have read Never Never and Fifty Fifty...
Still with me?
Ok...
My Review:
The third installment in the Detective Harriet Blue series sees the former sex crimes detective living on the lam in pursuit of her brothers killer.
Regan Banks has taken everything from Harriet that she loved. Having grown up being bounced from foster home to foster home during her formative years; a result of being a difficult and somewhat dangerous child, the bond she shared with her brother, Sam, has been severed forcing Harriet to go rogue, turning her back on law enforcement and friends alike in a bid to fuel her thirst for vengeance.
Unlike Never Never and Fifty Fifty, Liar Liar doesn't have the same rural Australian crime fiction feel to it given that the place-setting is largely metropolitan but that doesn't detract from the continuity nor the pop culture thrills Patterson is renowned; the Candice Fox stamp is well entrenched in this story and Liar Liar is all the better for it.
The thing that really stands out for me is the ending as is set an interesting new direction for the series.
My rating: 3.5 stats. Liar Liar sets a new direction for the series while providing the supporting cast of characters with enough depth and connection to the protagonist to maintain a number of future installments.
Still with me?
Ok...
My Review:
The third installment in the Detective Harriet Blue series sees the former sex crimes detective living on the lam in pursuit of her brothers killer.
Regan Banks has taken everything from Harriet that she loved. Having grown up being bounced from foster home to foster home during her formative years; a result of being a difficult and somewhat dangerous child, the bond she shared with her brother, Sam, has been severed forcing Harriet to go rogue, turning her back on law enforcement and friends alike in a bid to fuel her thirst for vengeance.
Unlike Never Never and Fifty Fifty, Liar Liar doesn't have the same rural Australian crime fiction feel to it given that the place-setting is largely metropolitan but that doesn't detract from the continuity nor the pop culture thrills Patterson is renowned; the Candice Fox stamp is well entrenched in this story and Liar Liar is all the better for it.
The thing that really stands out for me is the ending as is set an interesting new direction for the series.
My rating: 3.5 stats. Liar Liar sets a new direction for the series while providing the supporting cast of characters with enough depth and connection to the protagonist to maintain a number of future installments.
August 22, 2018
The collaborative efforts of James Patterson and Candice Fox have brought about another winner in this third instalment of the Harriet Blue series. Picking up the action when the previous novel ended, the reader is thrust into a fast-paced crime thriller that has as many twists as it does lingering questions. With the revelation that Regan Banks is the actual Georges River Killer, it is time to capture Australia’s most elusive serial killer in short order. While Harriet ‘Harry’ Blue has always professed that her brother, Sam, is innocent, it was only after he was murdered behind bars and the evidence came to light that anyone believed her. With Banks on the lam, Blue has taken it upon herself to find him alone and put a bullet in his head in an act of vigilante justice, while lurking in the shadows and away from her colleagues. With the Task Force turning its attention to finding Banks, they must also worry about Blue, hoping she will resurface and let the authorities bring the killer in to answer for his crimes. With Banks in hiding, he is able to ascertain Blue’s personnel file, which includes much of her backstory from a life in foster care. Reaching out to Blue, Banks takes her around southern Australia to different locations of people important to her, leaving bodies as a calling card. Meanwhile, Blue’s friend and fellow cop, Edward Whittacker, has been given a new partner as they hunt down the likes of Banks. Vada Reskit is a rookie detective with a great deal of gumption, perfect to help with the investigation, though there is something about her that leaves Whittacker a little concerned. As the case pushes forward and the Sydney Police turn Blue into a criminal on the run, there is little hope for a peaceful resolution to all of this. While Banks and Blue continue their game of cat and mouse, all that remains sure is that there will only be one survivor and a lot of blood. Patterson and Fox continue this successful partnership, crafting a series that has all the elements of a good crime thriller. Perfect for series fans and those who love a crime novel they will be able to devour in short order, as they revel in an ending that no one could have expected.
In my long reading career, I have spent much time with the books of James Patterson. Some will know that I have a love/hate relationship with the author, who would appear to use his name to sell books, rather than focussing on quality (the James Patterson Syndrome). While that may be the case, Patterson does collaborate with a number of authors who seem to have a strong ability to create quality work, thereby showing that not all pieces that bear the Patterson name need be duds. Candice Fox is one such author, who is a well-established author in her own right that I have come to read and enjoy. As Patterson continues to churn out novels faster than I do reviews, those involving Fox should not be lumped with many sub-par pieces of writing. Those familiar with this series will know all about Harriet Blue and her dedication to clear her brother’s name, as well as bring the actual killer to justice. Her backstory is riddled with emotional land mines from a life in foster care, which is handled effectively so as to draw the reader closer to her, always wondering if there are new pieces that might better explain the protagonist’s life. This novel turns the focus of Blue’s character development to finding Banks and ensuring he receives the punishment he has coming to him. The reader will likely enjoy the rollercoaster of emotions Blue exhibits as she tries to stay off the radar of authorities while turning this search into a vendetta fuelled by personal injustice. Banks is another character who has taken some of the spotlight, showing off what may have driven him to kill so freely and without a second thought. The reader can, should they choose, find crumbs of compassion for the man, though he is crafted as a wonderful antagonist and one that can be hated with ease. A handful of others shape the story as it turns from a manhunt into a desperate search for a cop who has lost her ability to think rationally. This gripping storyline will keep the reader flipping the pages of each short chapter and likely polishing off the novel in short order. Patterson has kept the cliffhanger formula to drive the reader to push onwards while Fox’s Australian influence can be seen throughout the plot. Well worth the time invested, though it should not take a reader with a gap of time in their schedule long to complete this intense thriller.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson and Madam Fox, for keeping this series moving. How a BookShot (short story) could have morphed into such a series, I could not have predicted from the outset. I hope your collaborative work continues.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
In my long reading career, I have spent much time with the books of James Patterson. Some will know that I have a love/hate relationship with the author, who would appear to use his name to sell books, rather than focussing on quality (the James Patterson Syndrome). While that may be the case, Patterson does collaborate with a number of authors who seem to have a strong ability to create quality work, thereby showing that not all pieces that bear the Patterson name need be duds. Candice Fox is one such author, who is a well-established author in her own right that I have come to read and enjoy. As Patterson continues to churn out novels faster than I do reviews, those involving Fox should not be lumped with many sub-par pieces of writing. Those familiar with this series will know all about Harriet Blue and her dedication to clear her brother’s name, as well as bring the actual killer to justice. Her backstory is riddled with emotional land mines from a life in foster care, which is handled effectively so as to draw the reader closer to her, always wondering if there are new pieces that might better explain the protagonist’s life. This novel turns the focus of Blue’s character development to finding Banks and ensuring he receives the punishment he has coming to him. The reader will likely enjoy the rollercoaster of emotions Blue exhibits as she tries to stay off the radar of authorities while turning this search into a vendetta fuelled by personal injustice. Banks is another character who has taken some of the spotlight, showing off what may have driven him to kill so freely and without a second thought. The reader can, should they choose, find crumbs of compassion for the man, though he is crafted as a wonderful antagonist and one that can be hated with ease. A handful of others shape the story as it turns from a manhunt into a desperate search for a cop who has lost her ability to think rationally. This gripping storyline will keep the reader flipping the pages of each short chapter and likely polishing off the novel in short order. Patterson has kept the cliffhanger formula to drive the reader to push onwards while Fox’s Australian influence can be seen throughout the plot. Well worth the time invested, though it should not take a reader with a gap of time in their schedule long to complete this intense thriller.
Kudos, Mr. Patterson and Madam Fox, for keeping this series moving. How a BookShot (short story) could have morphed into such a series, I could not have predicted from the outset. I hope your collaborative work continues.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
March 21, 2024
Detective Harriet Blue was back in Sydney after learning . When case files were stolen from the downstairs rooms, and two police officers shot, Harry knew it was Regan Banks. And when another woman was killed, Harry knew who he was after. She was on the run; she would get this killer if it was the last thing she did.
The police were on the lookout for Harry as well as Banks. And with the top brass determined to take the credit for Banks' capture, he was ordering his people to arrest Harry. But she had friends within the force and those friends were helping her as best they could. But would she be captured? Would Banks kill again? Would he kill Harry if he caught her first?
Liar Liar is the 3rd in the Detective Harriet Blue series by James Patterson and Aussie author Candice Fox and was intense, fast paced and deadly! Harry is a great character - I admire her ethics, although she had a shocking childhood. I'm looking forward to the next - Hush Hush - hopefully soon. Another thing I notice with these books - the collaboration with Patterson seems to temper Fox's violent trend, which suits me just fine :) Recommended.
**The reason for the spoiler is for those who haven't read the first two in the series**
The police were on the lookout for Harry as well as Banks. And with the top brass determined to take the credit for Banks' capture, he was ordering his people to arrest Harry. But she had friends within the force and those friends were helping her as best they could. But would she be captured? Would Banks kill again? Would he kill Harry if he caught her first?
Liar Liar is the 3rd in the Detective Harriet Blue series by James Patterson and Aussie author Candice Fox and was intense, fast paced and deadly! Harry is a great character - I admire her ethics, although she had a shocking childhood. I'm looking forward to the next - Hush Hush - hopefully soon. Another thing I notice with these books - the collaboration with Patterson seems to temper Fox's violent trend, which suits me just fine :) Recommended.
**The reason for the spoiler is for those who haven't read the first two in the series**
August 7, 2018
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
The dynamic writing duo of James Patterson and Candice Fox, return with the bold third addition to the Harriet (Harry) Blue series, titled Liar Liar. In this thrilling new chapter of Harriet Blue’s life, she transforms into quite the outlaw as she frantically works to ensnare a dangerous serial killer. This is also the same man she deems responsible for her brother’s death. It is a life and death fight to the bone for Detective Harry Blue in Liar Liar.
Detective Harriet Blue is sure in her determination to hunt down Regan Banks, a vicious serial killer, who Harry holds personally responsible for the recent shock loss of her brother Sam. Harry takes a dangerous route in pursuit of Regan, she is AWOL from her law enforcement position in the sex crimes department. Harry feels that in detaching herself from the police force, she has the best chance possible to capture and end Regan’s life. But Regan is an elusive figure, who is always one step ahead of Harry. Harry knows what is at stake in her hunt for Regan, but she doesn’t care. But, this unstoppable murderer is will make Harry work hard and it is a chase that has the potential to end in deadly circumstances.
The third book in Harry Blue series, Liar Liar, proved to be my favourite so far of the series. I really enjoyed the fact that Patterson and Fox decided to place Harry on the wrong side of the law. Her walk on the wild side, in her vengeance fuelled pursuit of Regan Banks, her brother’s killer, was explosive. This is a full narrative, defined by plenty of action, twists and violence. The pace doesn’t lag at any point at all, thanks to the Patterson style format of short and sharp chapters. It certainly ensured that I zipped through the pages of Liar Liar in record time, I read it in just one sitting! Liar Liar is one of those thrillers that induces the response of ‘just one more chapter’. It doesn’t take long before you realise that you have finished the book! Liar Liar is a compulsive and extremely fast read.
In this instalment, we get more of Harry, which I liked very much. As I settled into Liar Liar, I developed a stronger attachment to Harry character; her determination, girt, fearless nature, loyalty and sense of retribution. In Liar Liar, we see a deeper side to Harry as she spends time musing on her own upbringing, relationships, personal flaws and decisions. This is standout feature of the book and if you are a fan of Harry Blue, Liar Liar will leave you with a satisfied feeling. Likewise, I found myself even more interested in the supporting cast of Liar Liar. I speculated over the state of Whitt’s relationship with Harry. Then there is Tox and Pops, loyal supporters of Harry’s cause. Most of all, Harry’s connection to the villan of the tale, Regan Banks, throws up plenty of questions and hidden facts, especially linking to Harry’s brother Sam. Liar Liar is also a story of grief, as Harry’s relentless pursuit to hunt down Regan and personally put an end to this deranged psychopath’s life defines this novel.
The setting has shifted in Liar Liar, while the previous two books in this series were based in remote Australia, Liar Liar is based in the city and along Australia’s coastline. I think it works for this novel, as this is more about Harry’s cat and mouse chase with Regan. The cat and mouse chase itself was played out well in Liar Liar. Patterson and Fox serve up plenty of shocks and violent scenes. There was darkness about this book that I appreciated, which I put down to the influence of Fox. A few times I cast my mind back to Fox’s first book Hades. There were definitely echoes of the Archer/Bennett series in this book. Fox’s propensity to examine the dark side of human nature and the psychology of the mind is always illuminating. I consumed the scenes that fleshed up Regan’s background and the conditions that helped give rise to the despicable man he becomes.
So I come to the cliff-hanger of Liar Liar and wow, the end issued the book with a complete flip over. I’m going to admit that I didn’t predict this direction at all. But, I think it is a wise and open choice made by both authors, as it allows for Harriet’s future to be explored in another facet.
I recommend Liar Liar and the Harry Blue series to all crime fiction and thriller fans.
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Liar Liar, is book #90 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
The dynamic writing duo of James Patterson and Candice Fox, return with the bold third addition to the Harriet (Harry) Blue series, titled Liar Liar. In this thrilling new chapter of Harriet Blue’s life, she transforms into quite the outlaw as she frantically works to ensnare a dangerous serial killer. This is also the same man she deems responsible for her brother’s death. It is a life and death fight to the bone for Detective Harry Blue in Liar Liar.
Detective Harriet Blue is sure in her determination to hunt down Regan Banks, a vicious serial killer, who Harry holds personally responsible for the recent shock loss of her brother Sam. Harry takes a dangerous route in pursuit of Regan, she is AWOL from her law enforcement position in the sex crimes department. Harry feels that in detaching herself from the police force, she has the best chance possible to capture and end Regan’s life. But Regan is an elusive figure, who is always one step ahead of Harry. Harry knows what is at stake in her hunt for Regan, but she doesn’t care. But, this unstoppable murderer is will make Harry work hard and it is a chase that has the potential to end in deadly circumstances.
The third book in Harry Blue series, Liar Liar, proved to be my favourite so far of the series. I really enjoyed the fact that Patterson and Fox decided to place Harry on the wrong side of the law. Her walk on the wild side, in her vengeance fuelled pursuit of Regan Banks, her brother’s killer, was explosive. This is a full narrative, defined by plenty of action, twists and violence. The pace doesn’t lag at any point at all, thanks to the Patterson style format of short and sharp chapters. It certainly ensured that I zipped through the pages of Liar Liar in record time, I read it in just one sitting! Liar Liar is one of those thrillers that induces the response of ‘just one more chapter’. It doesn’t take long before you realise that you have finished the book! Liar Liar is a compulsive and extremely fast read.
In this instalment, we get more of Harry, which I liked very much. As I settled into Liar Liar, I developed a stronger attachment to Harry character; her determination, girt, fearless nature, loyalty and sense of retribution. In Liar Liar, we see a deeper side to Harry as she spends time musing on her own upbringing, relationships, personal flaws and decisions. This is standout feature of the book and if you are a fan of Harry Blue, Liar Liar will leave you with a satisfied feeling. Likewise, I found myself even more interested in the supporting cast of Liar Liar. I speculated over the state of Whitt’s relationship with Harry. Then there is Tox and Pops, loyal supporters of Harry’s cause. Most of all, Harry’s connection to the villan of the tale, Regan Banks, throws up plenty of questions and hidden facts, especially linking to Harry’s brother Sam. Liar Liar is also a story of grief, as Harry’s relentless pursuit to hunt down Regan and personally put an end to this deranged psychopath’s life defines this novel.
The setting has shifted in Liar Liar, while the previous two books in this series were based in remote Australia, Liar Liar is based in the city and along Australia’s coastline. I think it works for this novel, as this is more about Harry’s cat and mouse chase with Regan. The cat and mouse chase itself was played out well in Liar Liar. Patterson and Fox serve up plenty of shocks and violent scenes. There was darkness about this book that I appreciated, which I put down to the influence of Fox. A few times I cast my mind back to Fox’s first book Hades. There were definitely echoes of the Archer/Bennett series in this book. Fox’s propensity to examine the dark side of human nature and the psychology of the mind is always illuminating. I consumed the scenes that fleshed up Regan’s background and the conditions that helped give rise to the despicable man he becomes.
So I come to the cliff-hanger of Liar Liar and wow, the end issued the book with a complete flip over. I’m going to admit that I didn’t predict this direction at all. But, I think it is a wise and open choice made by both authors, as it allows for Harriet’s future to be explored in another facet.
I recommend Liar Liar and the Harry Blue series to all crime fiction and thriller fans.
*I wish to thank Penguin Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Liar Liar, is book #90 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
February 4, 2019
I love the Harriet Blue is one of my favorite Patterson characters because she is just bold and well, Australian (which is awesome in my book). I found this plot a great addition and continuous from Fifty Fifty and honestly very entertaining. The pages just fly by in this book. What an ending to this book. I can’t wait for Hush Hush to come out this year. Glad Pops is okay.
My quick and simple overall: entertaining and as bold as Harriet is!
My quick and simple overall: entertaining and as bold as Harriet is!
January 18, 2019
Man this was horrific. It was so bad, there was barely anything decent in this whole disaster of a novel. The setting is Australia, but it has no feeling of Australia at all, it just feels like LA or New York with an Australian postcode. The characters are poorly drawn, the plot is stupid and the execution is fatally flawed. What an unmitigated disaster.
March 1, 2019
"Liar Liar" is book three of the Harriet Blue series by James Patterson and Candice Fox. Detective Harriet Blue was defatted when her brother Sam died in prison. When Detective Harriet Blue was starting to receive phone calls from the person who framed her brother Regan Banks decided to follow his clues. The readers of "Liar Liar" will follow the twist and turns to see Harriet Blue achieve her aim of killing the person who destroyed her brother.
I enjoyed reading books in this series and "Liar Liar" did not disappoint. The portrayal of the characters by James Patterson and Candice Fox and the way they interact with each other throughout "Liar Liar". I was engaged with the characters and the plot from the first page and was unable to put the book down until the end. "Liar Liar" was well written and researched by Candice Fox and James Patterson and they did a great job in describing the setting of this book.
"Liar Liar" highlights that revenge does not pay and it can destroy the person who wants revenge. Also, the readers of "Liar Liar" will learn about law enforcement investigation into a serial rapist and murder.
I recommend this book.
I enjoyed reading books in this series and "Liar Liar" did not disappoint. The portrayal of the characters by James Patterson and Candice Fox and the way they interact with each other throughout "Liar Liar". I was engaged with the characters and the plot from the first page and was unable to put the book down until the end. "Liar Liar" was well written and researched by Candice Fox and James Patterson and they did a great job in describing the setting of this book.
"Liar Liar" highlights that revenge does not pay and it can destroy the person who wants revenge. Also, the readers of "Liar Liar" will learn about law enforcement investigation into a serial rapist and murder.
I recommend this book.
July 17, 2023
3 Stars for Liar Liar: Detective Harriet Blue, Book 3 (audiobook) by James Patterson and Candice Fox read by Federay Holmes.
I enjoyed the first two books more than this one. This ended up much darker and disturbing. I’m not sure if I’m going to continue with the series.
I enjoyed the first two books more than this one. This ended up much darker and disturbing. I’m not sure if I’m going to continue with the series.
August 23, 2018
Another excellent addition to the Harriet Blue series.
This one asks the question - how far would you go to take revenge on someone who has hurt you and your family? Is there an inherent evil somewhere inside just waiting to be exposed. That is what Regan is trying to prove and what Harriet is trying to discover about herself.
In this book we have a cop on the loose, a serial killer drawing her into a game of cat and mouse and a top cop looking to get his name in the lights, even if that means taking down one of his own team. There is so much evil in this book that it is nice when we get to see the light. It is rare but well worth the wait.
This cat, Regan, seems to have the upper hand. He knows everything about Harry including her childhood. Why does it seem like she is the mouse, constantly in a game of catch up? How does he know so much about her that he is able to keep pulling the string that she is chasing? Harry is a good person, trying so hard to protect people and she is doing it in the only way she knows how. Will it be the right way or not? Morals come in to play within this book - do morals trump all or do you sometimes have to do something you don't want to do in order to get the result you are chasing.
I love that in this book Harry is questioning her every move and thought. She is a superhero cop reduced to the same thoughts and feelings as every other person and becomes a very real and relatable person. She will challenge your thinking and your feelings with what she says and does in this book.
Liar Liar is great for all fans of Patterson and Fox and anyone who loves a good game of cat and mouse where you are not always sure who is going to come out with the spoils.
This one asks the question - how far would you go to take revenge on someone who has hurt you and your family? Is there an inherent evil somewhere inside just waiting to be exposed. That is what Regan is trying to prove and what Harriet is trying to discover about herself.
In this book we have a cop on the loose, a serial killer drawing her into a game of cat and mouse and a top cop looking to get his name in the lights, even if that means taking down one of his own team. There is so much evil in this book that it is nice when we get to see the light. It is rare but well worth the wait.
This cat, Regan, seems to have the upper hand. He knows everything about Harry including her childhood. Why does it seem like she is the mouse, constantly in a game of catch up? How does he know so much about her that he is able to keep pulling the string that she is chasing? Harry is a good person, trying so hard to protect people and she is doing it in the only way she knows how. Will it be the right way or not? Morals come in to play within this book - do morals trump all or do you sometimes have to do something you don't want to do in order to get the result you are chasing.
I love that in this book Harry is questioning her every move and thought. She is a superhero cop reduced to the same thoughts and feelings as every other person and becomes a very real and relatable person. She will challenge your thinking and your feelings with what she says and does in this book.
Liar Liar is great for all fans of Patterson and Fox and anyone who loves a good game of cat and mouse where you are not always sure who is going to come out with the spoils.
January 5, 2019
My first Patterson book, and it was a great book to start the year with! I didn't think I'd like it because personally I'm not a huge fan of detective books but I really liked this novel.
Harriet Blue is a cop on the hunt for her brother's killer. She will not stop until she kills him herself. But this cat and mouse game is not what you think it is. Her brother's killer is also killing people who are close to Harriet and no one is safe.
The plot was so entertaining to read and because of this, I flew through Liar Liar in three sittings. It's very rare for this to happen for me because sometimes it takes me a while to become invested in a book but this one was so easy not to be invested.
Harriet's character was so interesting to read. The story switches between various narrators, but Harriet's was my favorite. Slowly, bit by bit we uncover Harriet's story growing up, what kind of cop she is but we also learn about the killer and why he began to kill through their phone conversations.
I was surprised to see a few twists in this book since it was mostly a crime novel, but it made ti even better so I'm not really complaining. Overall it was a wonderful read and i'm so happy I finally read a James Patterson book!
Many thanks to Hachette Book Group Canada and Little Brown and Company for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Harriet Blue is a cop on the hunt for her brother's killer. She will not stop until she kills him herself. But this cat and mouse game is not what you think it is. Her brother's killer is also killing people who are close to Harriet and no one is safe.
The plot was so entertaining to read and because of this, I flew through Liar Liar in three sittings. It's very rare for this to happen for me because sometimes it takes me a while to become invested in a book but this one was so easy not to be invested.
Harriet's character was so interesting to read. The story switches between various narrators, but Harriet's was my favorite. Slowly, bit by bit we uncover Harriet's story growing up, what kind of cop she is but we also learn about the killer and why he began to kill through their phone conversations.
I was surprised to see a few twists in this book since it was mostly a crime novel, but it made ti even better so I'm not really complaining. Overall it was a wonderful read and i'm so happy I finally read a James Patterson book!
Many thanks to Hachette Book Group Canada and Little Brown and Company for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2019
Reminder to self - I’m not a fan of this series.
August 2, 2018
Love love love! Harriet Blue is such an awesome character and this book blew me away. After the last book I wasn't sure how this one would go. I am now very eagerly awaiting book 4!!!!
December 13, 2018
Well! I enjoyed this third instalment of the Detective Harriet Blue series the most. In this book for Harry things get very personal in her pursuit of the George’s River serial killer.
This time Harriet has gone rogue and has disappeared, her bosses fearing that Harriet is going to find Regan and kill him herself before the police can bring him in to face justice. I don’t want to give too much away but Harry is angry and doesn’t pull any punches in her cat and mouse game with Regan. She wants him dead at all costs and she wants to be the one to ensure Regan is put into the ground so he cannot kill anymore.
Regan sends Harry out to rural areas, hinting to her where his next victim or victims will be, playing mind games with Harriet which take her to the edge of her physical and mental strengths. Not letting sleeping dogs lie, Regan finds all of the skeletons in Harriet Blue’s closet and brings up her childhood, past cases and the hell of any and all anguish Harry has had to suffer in her life.
Harriet does not let anyone get in her way in her quest for death and while she is on the hunt for the one man she knows she must kill she is not alone. Hot on her heels are those trying to bring her in and arrest her as well as friends like Whitt and Tox who want to get to her before she does something she may later regret.
What Harriet doesn’t realise is that her enemy also has some help and in his quest to peel back Harry’s layers and show her what she’s really made of Regan must continue to be the badness that Harry must destroy once and for all.
The ending was a good one and now I’m really looking forward to the next instalment of this series, Patterson and Fox keeping the rhythm of this book at a hard run and writing a book that is thrilling and engaging the whole way through.
The character of Harriet Blue has been fully fleshed out now and I have nothing but sorrow for the shattered soul that she really is and I feel despair and empathy for her. I can’t wait to find out what Patterson and Fox have in store for her in the future.
Until the next one!
This time Harriet has gone rogue and has disappeared, her bosses fearing that Harriet is going to find Regan and kill him herself before the police can bring him in to face justice. I don’t want to give too much away but Harry is angry and doesn’t pull any punches in her cat and mouse game with Regan. She wants him dead at all costs and she wants to be the one to ensure Regan is put into the ground so he cannot kill anymore.
Regan sends Harry out to rural areas, hinting to her where his next victim or victims will be, playing mind games with Harriet which take her to the edge of her physical and mental strengths. Not letting sleeping dogs lie, Regan finds all of the skeletons in Harriet Blue’s closet and brings up her childhood, past cases and the hell of any and all anguish Harry has had to suffer in her life.
Harriet does not let anyone get in her way in her quest for death and while she is on the hunt for the one man she knows she must kill she is not alone. Hot on her heels are those trying to bring her in and arrest her as well as friends like Whitt and Tox who want to get to her before she does something she may later regret.
What Harriet doesn’t realise is that her enemy also has some help and in his quest to peel back Harry’s layers and show her what she’s really made of Regan must continue to be the badness that Harry must destroy once and for all.
The ending was a good one and now I’m really looking forward to the next instalment of this series, Patterson and Fox keeping the rhythm of this book at a hard run and writing a book that is thrilling and engaging the whole way through.
The character of Harriet Blue has been fully fleshed out now and I have nothing but sorrow for the shattered soul that she really is and I feel despair and empathy for her. I can’t wait to find out what Patterson and Fox have in store for her in the future.
Until the next one!
February 11, 2019
“Liar Liar” is the third book in new series co-written by Patterson and Fox, featuring Harriet (“Harry”) Blue, a volatile female detective in Australia. I read the first book and didn’t really care for it as much as I wanted to. The premise wasn’t bad, but the delivery was sub-par in my opinion. I read the second book last year and thought it was better than the first one, but it was still not one of Patterson's better books.
The third outing starts off five weeks following Harriet’s brother, Sam Blue, who was previously arrested and charged with killing several women, being killed in prison. The person that Harry blames is twisted serial killer, Regan Banks, who framed Harry’s brother and is now on the run from law enforcement. Harry, a detective herself, has gone off the grid to hunt Banks down as his killing spree continues.
Most of the book is spent with Harry on the run on in pursuit of Banks as he plays a deadly game of cat and mouse, killing and torturing previous victims and relatives of victims Harry has worked with during her career. Banks is sure that he and Harry are made of the same anti-social mold and he vows to set the killer within her free, leading to an anti-climatic showdown where she either joins with him or dies.
As expected with any Patterson co-written novel, the book was an easy read. The menu included the typical fast paced style that he is known for, one-dimensional and superficial characters, and of course, a sadistic killer with an evil past that drives him to torture others. There were a few good moments and the plot tightened up in the last third of the book pretty well. I liked the background connections that were built up between Harry and Banks and caused confusion for Harry at the end. They served an interesting purpose and created an extra edge to the conflict that earned my respect. And without giving it away, there was an interesting twist in the last two pages that set-up potential story lines in next book.
Overall, although this book culminated the storyline of Harry’s battle with serial killer, Regan Banks, it was still not one of Patterson's better books. There were a few moments of suspense along the way, but as was the case in the previous two books, Harry continues to take on more physical suffering than most humans can handle and still be physically strong enough to battle with Banks at the end. Fighting and being beat-up multiple times, being shot, walking great distances, and being malnourished are not obstacles enough to keep her practical super-human powers from saving her. As one popular watch commercial proclaimed, she takes a licking, but keeps on ticking…
My guess is that the hardcore Patterson fans will enjoy this more than I did, and that’s okay. I hope they do. But as for me, the best I can give this book is 3 out of 5 stars.
The third outing starts off five weeks following Harriet’s brother, Sam Blue, who was previously arrested and charged with killing several women, being killed in prison. The person that Harry blames is twisted serial killer, Regan Banks, who framed Harry’s brother and is now on the run from law enforcement. Harry, a detective herself, has gone off the grid to hunt Banks down as his killing spree continues.
Most of the book is spent with Harry on the run on in pursuit of Banks as he plays a deadly game of cat and mouse, killing and torturing previous victims and relatives of victims Harry has worked with during her career. Banks is sure that he and Harry are made of the same anti-social mold and he vows to set the killer within her free, leading to an anti-climatic showdown where she either joins with him or dies.
As expected with any Patterson co-written novel, the book was an easy read. The menu included the typical fast paced style that he is known for, one-dimensional and superficial characters, and of course, a sadistic killer with an evil past that drives him to torture others. There were a few good moments and the plot tightened up in the last third of the book pretty well. I liked the background connections that were built up between Harry and Banks and caused confusion for Harry at the end. They served an interesting purpose and created an extra edge to the conflict that earned my respect. And without giving it away, there was an interesting twist in the last two pages that set-up potential story lines in next book.
Overall, although this book culminated the storyline of Harry’s battle with serial killer, Regan Banks, it was still not one of Patterson's better books. There were a few moments of suspense along the way, but as was the case in the previous two books, Harry continues to take on more physical suffering than most humans can handle and still be physically strong enough to battle with Banks at the end. Fighting and being beat-up multiple times, being shot, walking great distances, and being malnourished are not obstacles enough to keep her practical super-human powers from saving her. As one popular watch commercial proclaimed, she takes a licking, but keeps on ticking…
My guess is that the hardcore Patterson fans will enjoy this more than I did, and that’s okay. I hope they do. But as for me, the best I can give this book is 3 out of 5 stars.
February 2, 2019
I had a difficult time reading the first two books in this series, and this book followed suit. I don't mind that the series takes place in Australia, it can be a learning experience to read about crime solving in another country. However, with the exception of a few words (boot instead of trunk), and with the exception of referring to cities in Australia, the setting could have been any town in the US, Canada, Europe, etc. Difficult to tell why this series is even set in Australia.
The story itself, not very believable which is the problem I had with the first two books in the series. This detective is so rogue is hard to understand why she is still on the police force. She's given directions and doesn't follow them, she's given explicit orders, and disobeys. She has phenomenal strength and is presented as a superwoman who can leap tall buildings from a single bounce (well, almost). Even her trusted friends on the force take liberties with their jobs that would result in being fired in the real world.
Just not sure I will try the fourth book if there is one.
The story itself, not very believable which is the problem I had with the first two books in the series. This detective is so rogue is hard to understand why she is still on the police force. She's given directions and doesn't follow them, she's given explicit orders, and disobeys. She has phenomenal strength and is presented as a superwoman who can leap tall buildings from a single bounce (well, almost). Even her trusted friends on the force take liberties with their jobs that would result in being fired in the real world.
Just not sure I will try the fourth book if there is one.
August 13, 2018
This was a tad slow until about 1/2 way thru & I really enjoyed the fast paced ending. I like where this series could be heading from the ending on this one. Eager for book 4!
July 20, 2019
I will be writing to GR asking for the ability to provide negative stars. This one would be reaping a big five star negative rating.
December 6, 2020
I did not like this series in book one. Swore I would not read book 2 but I did. Somehow I missed this and borrowed book 4. I probably should have gone back and read book 2 again but once I got in to this one there was no going back. Candice Fox has figured it out and is developing Harriet into an engaging character!!
July 31, 2018
My View:
A year or so ago I went to a local book launch and met, in person, Candice Fox. I really admire her tenacity, her “writing story”, her enthusiasm and the opportunity she was just beginning to work on – the joint writing efforts with James Patterson. Bravo Candice! What a fabulous opportunity for you.
Candice spoke a little about the process of writing a co-written book – it was intriguing. After I have now read an example of this process
(Harriet Blue #3) the writing, two as one is flawless. A gritty, tough and very physical narrative, I am sure if you enjoyed Candice’s Archer and Bennett series you will enjoy this read.
PS
If you are a crime fiction writer out there in the world of the internet – I would love to try writing chapters of a book with you :)
A year or so ago I went to a local book launch and met, in person, Candice Fox. I really admire her tenacity, her “writing story”, her enthusiasm and the opportunity she was just beginning to work on – the joint writing efforts with James Patterson. Bravo Candice! What a fabulous opportunity for you.
Candice spoke a little about the process of writing a co-written book – it was intriguing. After I have now read an example of this process
(Harriet Blue #3) the writing, two as one is flawless. A gritty, tough and very physical narrative, I am sure if you enjoyed Candice’s Archer and Bennett series you will enjoy this read.
PS
If you are a crime fiction writer out there in the world of the internet – I would love to try writing chapters of a book with you :)
September 22, 2019
I gave this two stars instead of one, because some of the cop dialogue was dead on and hilarious. However, I would not recommend it. The characters are unknowable as is the setting. I felt like I was banging on a postcard, trying to be let into the world it promised. Even the meant-to-be-terrifying-yet-brilliant serial killer was flat.
July 3, 2018
For those that don’t know anything about James Patterson, where have you been? This guy is honestly my life. I started reading his books when I was a young teenager and I have grown up reading them and I will die reading his books. I would always day dream that Alex Cross was my awesome cool uncle, but that is a story for another time! Patterson is an honest to god GENIUS! I love him. Does my love for him effect my review? Nope. I always review honestly and even if my favourite author is on the chopping block I would still be honest. So don’t be fooled by the 5 star review, it isn’t the love for Patterson that got this review. It was Liar Liar and boy was it amazing!
Liar Liar is the third book in the series written with Candice Fox. I haven’t read Never Never nor Fifty Fifty before I started this book. Though I always recommend reading a series in order, this is a Patterson book and you never need to read his books in order, because as soon as you start this you already know what has happened in the previous books and you get to know all the characters on a personal level. Patterson has such a way with words. And please don’t think that the first two chapters are spent explaining the previous books and the characters and how they all got this point. Nope. Patterson literally has you jumping straight into the story and finding out about the characters as you go. So if you ever come across a Patterson book and it’s the 15th in a series, don’t put it back, imagine all his books are stand along but yet wonderfully tied together. Trust me when I say but the book.
Liar Liar is a book based in Australia (Yasss) and is centred around Detective Harriet Blue who is on the run from the police in the hopes that she will capture and kill Regan Banks. The man that killed her brother. Living out of her backpack, with taunting calls from Reagan, Blue must find a way to capture Regan before he can harm those she loves and those that has spent her life and career protecting. Interested yet?
One of my favourite things about Patterson books is that he writes from multiple points of view and can pull it off smoothly. Each chapter is based from either the perspective of Blue, Reagan or Blue’s cop buddy Pops with a few added extra as well. Throughout the book you spend your time dying to get back to Blue’s chapter to find out how she is going while also dying to get back to the Reagan chapters to get in the mind of the serial killer. Brilliant. I can never fault Patterson’s delivery of making every character important and interesting.
Not only are the characters amazing but you also get a glimpse into their weaknesses, strengths, fears and what they love. I have never found a character boring or willing myself to skip a chapter to get to the next point of view. And if you told me to pick a favourite? Well I couldn’t. I love them all!
Though this book was written by two people, Patterson and Fox, you never see a lot of Fox’s writing style seep through and I wouldn’t be able to tell you where one writer stooped and another continues. The whole book flowed smoothly and boy was it amazing.
I always look forward to reading Patterson because this guy does not disappoint! I loved Liar Liar and couldn’t flaw it if I tried. Great writing. Engaging and brilliant characters. Unstoppable from start to finish. Patterson, I bow down to you!
May 16, 2020
Another satisfactory episode in the Harriet Blue collection. I love the heroine and the narration is just fabulous. My only criticism is the Regan Banks character seemed a little too unbelievable in terms of his tactical capabilities but other than that, great plot and the ending suggests more to come from this feisty, flawed cop.
May 6, 2019
Fooled again by Patterson, his name in large print on the cover, then co-author in small print at the bottom....
August 18, 2019
Detective Harriet Blue returns in her biggest thriller yet in the instant New York Times bestseller. With her life on the life, Harriet has to do unspeakable things and making her a very good cop...gone very bad.
It's all because of one man, Regan Banks. He viciously killed the only person in the world who matters to Harriet--and he plans to kill her next.
As she recklessly speeds toward he dark side--and finally crosses it--Harriet won't stop until Regan pays for the many lives he has taken.
When James Patterson and Candice Fox have brought about another winner in this showing of the third installment of the Harriet Blue Series. Detective Harriet Blue returns in her biggest thriller yet in the instant New York Times bestseller. With her life on the life, Harriet has to to do unspeakable things and making her a very good cop... gone very bad.
In the space of a week, she has committed theft and fraud, resisted arrest, assaulted a police officer, and is considered a dangerous fugitive from the law.
It's all because of one man, Regan Banks. He viciously killed the only person in the world who matters to Harriet-and he plans to kill her next.
As she recklessly speeds toward the dark side -- and finally crosses it -- Harriet won't stop until Regan pays for the many lives he has taken. Detective Harriet Blue returns in her biggest thriller yet in the instant New York Times bestseller. With her life on the life, Harriet has to to do unspeakable things and making her a very good cop... gone very bad.
In the space of a week, she has committed theft and fraud, resisted arrest, assaulted a police officer, and is considered a dangerous fugitive from the law.
It's all because of one man, Regan Banks. He viciously killed the only person in the world who matters to Harriet--and he plans to kill her next.
As she recklessly speeds toward he dark side--and finally crosses it--Harriet won't stop until Regan pays for the many lives he has taken.
When James Patterson and Candice Fox have brought about another winner in this showing of the third installment of the Harriet Blue Series. Detective Harriet Blue returns in her biggest thriller yet in the instant New York Times bestseller. With her life on the life, Harriet has to to do unspeakable things and making her a very good cop... gone very bad.
In the space of a week, she has committed theft and fraud, resisted arrest, assaulted a police officer, and is considered a dangerous fugitive from the law.
It's all because of one man, Regan Banks. He viciously killed the only person in the world who matters to Harriet-and he plans to kill her next.
As she recklessly speeds toward the dark side -- and finally crosses it -- Harriet won't stop until Regan pays for the many lives he has taken. Detective Harriet Blue returns in her biggest thriller yet in the instant New York Times bestseller. With her life on the life, Harriet has to to do unspeakable things and making her a very good cop... gone very bad.
In the space of a week, she has committed theft and fraud, resisted arrest, assaulted a police officer, and is considered a dangerous fugitive from the law.
February 25, 2019
3.5* rounded up because of the atmosphere.
This is atmospheric, and I perfectly enjoyed the psychological aspect of the story.
This I found harder than the previous two installments of the book because of the psychological edge carried out. Also I like the idea that the storyline on this series hasn't fully been closed on the lead character. There are hints to what future stories may end up going although there maybe alternative stories not hinted at.
This is atmospheric, and I perfectly enjoyed the psychological aspect of the story.
This I found harder than the previous two installments of the book because of the psychological edge carried out. Also I like the idea that the storyline on this series hasn't fully been closed on the lead character. There are hints to what future stories may end up going although there maybe alternative stories not hinted at.
April 21, 2019
Thrilling read. I like Blue so much and her strength because of her weaknesses. Yes it's a little far fetched at times but I find it so exciting. There will be a new phase for Harriet coming I hope, along with her few friends.
June 12, 2020
4.5 stars.
Love this series, can't wait to start the audio of book 4 - Hush Hush.
Love this series, can't wait to start the audio of book 4 - Hush Hush.
March 14, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed the first Harriet Blue novel, and this (the third in the seies) while enjoyable didn't have me biting my nails and holding my breathe as frequently. It was enjoyable however, and I do enjoy Harriet Blue as a character a lot. I also didn't care for the ending, but mainly because I'm a fan of "happily ever after" endings.
February 11, 2019
Candice Fox has done it again! Her talent and artistry are sublime. I love her work and appreciate James Patterson letting her publish her books with his name because otherwise I would have never discovered her. Her style is unique and addictive. I can’t wait for more!!!
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