Johnny-Boy by super-talented crime writer A.F. Carter is another superior entry into his scary, violent, and realistic Baxter novels. Baxter is an imaginary rust-belt town struggling to recover as a new auto plant is being constructed, bringing with it jobs, drugs, sex workers, and overall malaise.
Johnny Boy is unoriginal, a hitman with a job(s) to do. And he excels at it. You do not want to meet him, period. But the beauty of the writer's prose is that you meet Johnny, nonetheless. He is the center of the wheel that drives this terrifying but realistic story because you realize that the world is filled with Johnny Boys.
Delia Mariola is the C of D, a.k.a. the Chief of Detectives in Baxter. Her interactions with Johnny are fraught with danger and unbearable tension. Good versus evil. The writer portrays grey areas of life, justice, and crime realistically, making this novel memorable, scary, and thought-provoking—a 100 percent winner.

3.5/5 ⭐️

I found this to be a fast paced book once I got into the story line. Understanding that I haven’t read the previous books in the series it still was enjoyable as a stand alone. The corruption storyline bored me even if it will play a role in the future, the other detective felt unnecessary in the overall plot of the story.

I wish the ending was a little more eventful. While I appreciated the killers POV I also felt like it could’ve been just as impactful without his side of the story since he does die in the end.

Overall it was a good crime novel.


**thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Johnny-Boy by A. F. Carter is a gripping addition to the Delia Mariola series, plunging readers into the dark and gritty world of a Rust Belt town on the brink of change. This fourth installment continues to showcase Carter’s talent for crafting intense, character-driven narratives that linger long after the final page.

Set in the economically depressed town of Baxter, Johnny-Boy introduces us to a chilling new antagonist. His presence casts a long shadow over the town, creating an atmosphere of palpable tension and fear. Carter’s portrayal of Johnny-Boy is terrifying and fascinating, offering a deep dive into the psyche of a remorseless killer.

Delia’s personal and professional struggles are depicted with nuance and empathy, adding layers of complexity to her character. Her interactions with Johnny-Boy are fraught with danger and suspense, driving the narrative forward with relentless momentum.

Carter’s writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the bleakness of Baxter while also highlighting the flickers of hope and humanity that persist in its residents. The town itself is almost a character, its decaying infrastructure and struggling populace reflecting the broader themes of decline and renewal. The setting provides a stark backdrop for the unfolding drama, enhancing the novel’s gritty realism.

The plot of Johnny-Boy is meticulously crafted, with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Carter skillfully balances action with introspection, allowing for moments of quiet tension that build to explosive climaxes. The pacing is impeccable, ensuring that the story never loses its grip on the reader’s attention.

Carter explores moral ambiguity by delving into the gray areas of right and wrong, challenging readers to question their own perceptions of justice and retribution. This thematic depth adds a layer of sophistication to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple tale of good versus evil.

Johnny-Boy is a compelling and thought-provoking entry in the Delia Mariola series. A. F. Carter has crafted a dark, atmospheric thriller that is both chilling and deeply human. With its complex characters, intricate plot, and evocative setting, this novel is a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

Whether you’re new to the series or a longtime follower, Johnny-Boy is sure to leave a lasting impression.

"Johnny-Boy" dives deep into the dark underbelly of a Rust Belt town, weaving a gripping tale of a hitman on the loose and two fierce female detectives determined to stop him. This gritty thriller had me hooked from the start, and now I'm eager to read the entire series to see more of Delia and Blanche's tenacious crime-fighting.