really wanted to like this audiobook! In this case I think I would have been better off with the book version instead. I had a hard time keeping up with what was going on and the narrator was not my favorite which makes a big impact on the story.

There were many aspects of the story I liked. I think I will read the book instead of audio when it comes out and give it another try!

Thank you NetGalley and MacMillian Audio for an ALC of Head Cases.

Audiobook with narration by Will Damron

I loved this audiobook!! I kept listening, ignoring anything else I had thought I would get accomplished!

The narration by Will Damron is excellent! I will definitely look for more audiobooks by him.

The relatively new FBI PAR UNIT (Patterns and Recognition) team is called in when a series of gruesome murders are discovered.

All of the members of PAR have some smear on their record with the FBI but they are so incredibly talented that the FBI can’t afford to lose them. They have been solving cases in record time with their skill at recognizing patterns and seeing things that other agents have missed.

There wasn’t a character in the group that I didn’t like. They are all skilled in their own ways and their individual talents mesh together in the PAR unit.

Gardner Camden is in charge of the group for these cases. He is neurodivergent and brilliant at solving cases with his analytical mind and tenacious attitude towards solving these crimes.

The first murder is that of a serial killer that Camden had identified as dead in a fire 7 years ago!! Now he is personally invested and more than eager to close these cases.

Just when I thought Camden was on the right track - BOOM - another twist in the plot. Lots of questions and a roller coaster explosive ending will keep you listening!

That’s all the encouragement I’m going to give you to grab to this audiobook. You won’t be disappointed particularly if you are a true crime fan.

I received the audiobook from NetGalley through McMillan audio. It was my pleasure to listen to and review this title.

John McMahon’s Head Cases is a gripping FBI thriller that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. With its complex characters, a brilliantly twisted killer, and a narrative that maintains tension throughout, this book is a standout in the crime thriller genre.

The story centers on FBI Agent Camden, whose unique perspective and emotional detachment make him an unconventional protagonist. While his personality might not resonate with every reader, it’s precisely this trait that makes him compelling. His ability to think differently becomes a vital asset in the pursuit of a diabolical killer, and McMahon expertly weaves this into the narrative. Camden’s struggles with feeling “different” add a layer of depth to the story, making him more than just a typical crime-fighting hero.

The writing style is sharp and immersive, with McMahon skillfully building suspense and delivering unexpected twists. The antagonist is chillingly well-crafted, keeping the FBI—and readers—on edge throughout. The pacing is spot-on, with each chapter driving the plot forward without feeling rushed.

For those who enjoy audiobooks, the Audible version comes highly recommended. The narration enhances the story, drawing listeners deeper into the world McMahon has created.

In summary, Head Cases is a masterful blend of psychological depth, thrilling action, and a cat-and-mouse game that will leave readers guessing until the end. Highly recommended for fans of crime thrillers who appreciate a unique protagonist and a plot that keeps them on their toes.

Narration is a 10/10 The quirky people come to life in this exceptional story.

This gripping series opener follows a team of exceptionally intelligent but quirky FBI agents in the Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit. Told from the perspective of Agent Gardner Camden, the story centers on a serial murder investigation that begins with the unexpected reappearance of a serial killer presumed dead for years. As the agents become entangled in the killer's intricate web of clues and puzzles, the future of their unit—and their careers—hangs in the balance as they race against time to catch the elusive murderer.

The book is a compelling read, masterfully written with engaging, well-developed characters and a perfectly paced narrative. The tension steadily builds, culminating in a thrilling conclusion. The author skillfully plants subtle clues throughout the story, keeping readers on their toes and constantly questioning which details are important. Camden, the protagonist, takes note of numerous intricate details, inviting readers to join him in piecing together the mystery. The intriguing premise sets the stage for future installments, with a sequel already scheduled for release in 2026.

First I thought: if you put Sheldon Cooper as part of the BAU from Criminal Minds, this was the book. Because at the beginning, it was witty among the seriousness of the crime. But then the more you get into FBI agent Gardner Camden, there was less Sheldon and more Spencer Reid with Criminal Minds. Either way, this book was an absolute thrill ride and I really enjoyed it. The characters were great, just as expected for a criminal thriller like this, and the crimes itself were just as fascinating. The book also contained some political BS along with it, with the FBI being skeptical about this PAR team with Camden and the rest of the crew. Typical jargon and issues.

But Head Cases was fun and well-plotted even if you're shrugging to think this was yet another episode of the show or another book of similar plot points. But we can't get enough of these books, can't we? And I'm here for it, especially by this great author. It was setup and done well, the characters were interesting, and the ride with clues and figuring the ultimate reveals were worth the read/listen.

Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for an audiobook copy of this. All opinions are my own.

Discovering a new author is always a thrill, and John McMahon's Head Cases is a superb thriller that you must earmark as a must-read for 2025. The characters, led by FBI Agent Gardner Camden, form an eclectic group that you will cheer for and laugh with as they unravel clues leading them along a winding path to a serial killer. Head Cases is a splash of Monk (the television show), a twist of NCIS, and a dabble of a pure Hercule Poirot murder mystery. McMahon's creative writing will keep you up for hours, as you won't want to put it down.

When DNA links a murder victim to a serial killer long presumed dead, the FBI’s Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit is called upon to solve the mysterious clues left behind. Alongside Gardner, the PAR team consists of a mathematician, a weapons expert, a computer analyst, and their leader, a seasoned agent. With an enigmatic case that will keep readers on the edge of their seats and this quirky collection of characters, Head Cases is an unmitigated success. If this is the debut of a series, I can't wait for the next PAR/Gardner Camden thriller.

The oddball PAR team of the FBI is tasked to solve the case of a serial killer whose victims are all serial killers. PAR has a computer analyst, a weapons expert, a mathematician and is lead my a career agent - all who have pissed off internal FBI agents at some point in their career (which is how they ended up in PAR). This new serial killer is learning about the members of PAR and going after them as well to make sure he/she’s not caught.

This one totally gave me Department Q vibes (a Danish noir series about a ragtag department working in the basement solving cold cases) - I loved the non conformists working in PAR and am very excited that this seems to be the first in a series. I had both the audio and ebook of this, but got so caught up in how well the narration was for the audiobook that I barely read this one and simply listened. This was well written thriller and kept me engrossed the whole time as the team chased the killer. Head Cases came at the perfect time for me since the Department Q series just ended.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC to review

While the concept of this book was intriguing, it didn't hold my attention. I liked the narrator (audiobook) and thought he performed well but the story itself just didn't interest me. Perhaps my mind was wandering while trying to listen. I may try again when the next installment is released who knows. My thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing a audio review copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Thank you Netgalley for this audiobook. I really wanted to read this and when I was able to get the audio version I was very excited. The narrator was excellent and made me glued to listening the entire book in just a few hours. I highly recommend this as an immersive read if you enjoy that. I rated this 5 stars.

Head Cases follows the case of a serial killer who's killing other serial killers and the team of detectives in a specialized FBI unit called PARs who are trying to capture him.

Gardner Camden belongs to the the Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit of the FBI. This 5-member team consists of agents who are considered misfits - in one way or another, they've messed up in the past and have been shuffled off to anonymity. They're all strange in some way, but also brilliant.

A serial killer from one of Gardner’s solved cases, presumed to be dead for over a decade, is found murdered and another body with a similar story soon after. The murderer has left clues and riddles for Gardner and his team as they track him across the country. With the threat of PAR being disbanded, Gardner must work to solve the riddles before it’s too late, and before the killer gets another target.

This had a real Criminal Minds vibe - lots of twists and turns and a satisfying ending. This is my first ever audio book - I felt like the narration was a touch cheesy in the beginning but it grew on me as I continued the read. A little formulaic and very plot based, but overall I enjoyed the ride.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio via Netgalley for access to this ALC.

Reading this was almost exactly like watching an episode of Criminal minds, maybe like one of the two part episodes. We follow FBI agents that are banished to PAR (patterns and recognition) for not conforming to the societal expectations and politics in the FBI, sort of like a group of Dr. Reids, each with their own pattern based super abilities. The entire book was fast paced and clever, if you even remotely enjoy Criminal Minds this is the book for you. The audiobook was also really well done and the narrator does a great job of embodying the main character. This is listed as the first in a series so I will definitely be continuing.

Thanks to Netgalley, John McMahon, and Macmillan Audio for this ALC that I chose to listen to and review

Gardner Camden grew up knowing he was different from everyone else. He processed information and spoke in ways unlike others. His eidetic memory leads him to pursue a career in the FBI where he is assigned to the PAR (Patterns and Recognition) Team, also known as the Head Cases, because they're weirdos. PAR, once a highly respected assignment who would solve cases to complex for other teams, have been assigned strictly to cold cases as of late. Camden finds himself back in the field after a serial killer turns up dead...years after he had been presumed dead. Camden and his team (a weapons expert, a mathematician, and a computer specialist) must get to the bottom of this case and fast, because more criminals keep turning up dead and it seems the killer is leaving clues for the agents.

Oh my goodness, I really enjoyed this one. It is like Criminal Minds meets Mindhunter meets The Irrational. This book kept me up several hours past my bedtime because I was dying to know what happens next. Now keep in mind that I listened to the audio version, which I think always adds a little extra suspense. It really did keep me guessing up until the end. Even if it didn't, the quirky characters had me HOOKED.

I won't be surprised at all if upon further reflection, I come back and bump my rating up from 4.5 stars.

The best part? This is book one of an upcoming series. I cannot wait to read more! If you like criminal procedure shows, puzzles, and true suspense (this is not a cozy Hallmarkesque mystery, it is legit), this is a series you are going to want to get into.

This book was virtually flawless! Clever and entertaining, it was the best mystery/suspense novel I've read in quite some time. I loved the audio narration, which helped make the voice of Gardner even more real. His thoughts and descriptions put me in his headspace.
I will be highly recommending Head Cases to my followers!

If you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes, Dr. House, or Will Trent, you will want to read this. This is not a cozy mystery; there are some graphic descriptions of the crimes that might be shocking if you are new to the thriller genre. As a seasoned thriller reader, though, they are pretty mild.

The main character, Gardner Camden, is neurodivergent and possibly (probably) autistic but is NOT portrayed in a cheesy, stereotypical way. The other characters were distinct and easy to keep track of. The pacing was steady and quick.

I'm excited to see there will at least be a sequel but I'm hoping there will be demand for many more! This is EXACTLY the type of book I reach for when I'm not quite sure what I'm in the mood for and I can't wait to recommend this one to anyone who'll listen!

Thank you so much to @macmillan.audio & @minotaur_books for the advanced listening copy.

I tore through this audiobook in about 2 days. Listening to it in the car, at home, and while walking. I’m a HUGE fan of Criminal Minds and this felt exactly like listening to a spinoff of it. This was a really enjoyable cat and mouse game between the PAR unit (Patterns and Recognition Unit) and a serial killer who just so happens to be killing other bad people. I loved getting to know Agent Gardner and his team and I’m so excited that this is the first book in a series. I’ll definitely be following it.

Narrated by @jwdamron, he was exactly the voice I pictured for Agent Gardner Camden. It kept me engaged and wanting to keep listening!

I did not finish this audiobook. I did not like the first 2 hours. It was hard to follow and the story was not engaging.

This was such a fun read/listen. The intricate plot kept me interested the entire time, and I never guessed what was going to come next. The characters were all very interesting. I would love to watch this as a TV series; it felt a little Dexter-esque. I will definitely be interested in continuing this series. Solid 4.5 stars.

Really enjoyed this one! I’ve been favoring domestic thrillers over crime thrillers lately, but this book definitely has me questioning that decision.

Head Cases introduces the elite FBI Patterns and Recognition (PAR) team, led by the brilliant yet socially isolated Gardner Camden. Tasked with stopping a vigilante targeting serial killers, Camden and his team—a mathematician, a weapons expert, and a computer whiz—race against time to unravel cryptic clues and outwit a killer who’s always one step ahead. Camden’s sharp intellect and awkward charm give serious Spencer Reid vibes, making him an even more compelling protagonist.

Camden’s neurodivergence and strained personal life add depth to his character, while the well-rounded supporting team enhances the story’s dynamic. McMahon delivers fast-paced action, clever twists, and relentless suspense, keeping readers guessing until the end.

Perfect for fans of crime procedurals and psychological puzzles, this gripping read concludes with room for future installments, and I’m already looking forward to seeing where the PAR team goes next.

I would like to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

A number of years ago my son got me hooked on the tv series Criminal Minds which features an elite group of FBI agents in the Behavioral Analysis Unit. Though it occasionally gave me nightmares, I enjoyed discussing the cases and characters with him. When I read the synopsis for HEAD CASES, I was instantly drawn to it thinking it might be a book we could both read, enjoy, and discuss.

HEAD CASES works as a police procedural for the same reasons Criminal Minds works. It features enigmatic characters - both as hunters and the hunted - and delves into the motivation behind twisted criminal behavior. It’s not so much car chases and gun fights as it is head games and psychological maneuvering.

John McMahon gives us the Patterns and Recognition Unit (PAR) which was once held in high esteem, but is now relegated to working behind a desk on cold cases. FBI agent Gardner Camden has a brilliant mind, but lacks the people and political skills necessary to succeed within the agency. When a long presumed dead serial killer turns up as a murder victim and is linked to a pattern of suspicious deaths, Camden and the PAR are pressed into service to hunt a serial killer of serial killers.

McMahon does a terrific job laying out the backstory of the PAR in this first book of a series. The team is comprised of agents all with particular skills. There is no shortage of tension and red herrings as Camden and his team follow the clues in an attempt to find the killer.

The audiobook is expertly narrated by Will Damron who brings depth to his characterization of Camden and the supporting cast.

I’ve pre-ordered a copy to be delivered to my son on release day and look forward to our discussion. I’m already anticipating the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advance copy in exchange for my unbiased review.

This was a fantastically fast paced police procedural. I always forget how much I love police procedurals until I read a really great one like this. From the get go we are trying to figure out the identity of the serial killer who is killing serial killers. Dexter style. That fact alone had me 100% in. The PAR (Patterns and Recognition) Unit has a group of remarkably bright agents who are able to solve cold cases and cases other agents can't solve with their brilliant brains and knack for figuring our difficult puzzles. Agent Camden is placed as Head Investigator on their latest case and I really enjoyed the story from his point of view. I also enjoyed his family/personal story and how it impacted his decisions and career. This story was so fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat towards the end. I loved how I was always wondering who did it, especially when the clues indicated it could be someone in the FBI! The narrator did a fantastic job and did a great job voicing all of the different characters.

Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for my ALC of this story which publishes 1/28/25.