"In Tucker’s impressive first novel and series launch, NYPD Det. Buddy Lock… keeps the excitement level high throughout. The surprise ending will leave readers impatiently awaiting Buddy’s next outing."
— Publishers Weekly, Starred Review [ Read the full review ]
Direct and fast-paced, Tucker's debut takes readers on an adventurous ride that extends from questions about custody of a young charge to an art deal that may have its roots in the exploitation of Jews in World War II.
— Kirkus [ Read the full review ]
"Terrific plot! And Buddy Lock is a cop protagonist that’s a delightful departure from the norm. I’m whole-heartedly recommending NEXT OF KIN."
— Mike Lawson, author of the Joe DeMarco thrillers
"Gripping from its opening lines, NEXT OF KIN is a white-knuckle page-turner, where ruthless power, murder, and crimes hidden for generations create an intricate, utterly absorbing tale. The life of a vulnerable young boy hangs in the balance, and Detective Buddy Lock must find the killer before it's too late. Simply a fantastic read."
— Marya Hornbacher, Pulitzer Prize-nominated author of
Wasted, The Center of Winter, and Madness
Pre-order Now!
To be published October 2017 by Thomas & Mercer
A New York homicide cop stands between a small boy and a vengeful serial killer.
A New Year’s Eve celebration begins with the pop of a champagne cork—and ends with the bone-chilling screams of a killer’s victims. Ten-year-old Ben Brook is the lone survivor of the brutal murder of his wealthy family at their upstate New York compound. But from the moment he evades death, Ben’s life is in constant danger. Can NYPD detective Buddy Lock keep the boy safe from a killer intent on wiping out the entire Brook clan?
Which of the next of kin will be the next to die?
When two more massacres decimate the Brooks’ ranks, Buddy’s hunt narrows. But his challenges grow as power, money, and secret crimes from the family’s past stand in the way. With the boy more and more at risk, Buddy steps closer to the edge, forcing a relentless killer to become more brazen, brutal, and cunning. Saving the boy will put all of Buddy’s skills to the test . . . and risk the lives of everyone he loves.
Buddy Lock could have been a brilliant musician—but he chose to be an even better cop.
Buddy Lock walked away from Carnegie Hall when he realized that a career as a piano prodigy was his father’s dream—not his own. But his musical skills make him New York’s best homicide detective. He can spot clues that nobody else can see. He’s also made a mistake that cost an innocent girl her life. It’s the cause of his private hell, but also the reason he works so hard to deliver justice. He never gives up. He’s relentless.