British Detective (Jonathan Roper investigates Book 1)

ByMichael Leese

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Readers` Reviews

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
portia
The author’s hyperbolical description, the kind that seems to be required in the world of genre fiction, reads: “Murder…kidnapping…human trafficking…life extending bio medicines… Scotland Yard detectives forced to admit they are baffled following the disappearance of a massively wealthy philanthropist who seems to have vanished into thin air. This can only be a case for Jonathan Roper; on suspension for misconduct, the autistic detective is called back to duty with the Met’s Special Investigations team. They know they are going to need his unique skills even if that means putting a few noses out of joint. Veteran detective Brian Hooley is the one man who believes in him and that faith is repaid as he starts to make a series of breakthroughs. But as the mystery becomes ever darker, the pair realise that far more than reputations are on the line - with a gang of heavily armed mercenaries on the loose - their very lives are at stake.” The book is better than that.
There are two kinds of mysteries. In some like those by Agatha Christie we can evaluate the evidence and form a running hypothesis about the villains, their motives, etc. In others like this one we aren’t invited into the unraveling process and we have to be content with following along with the detective. That means that the detective has to be especially engaging and original, and this one is.
The strongest thing in this book involving the best writing and most vivid imagination is Jonathan Roper, an autistic sleuth related to the fools of Shakespeare, the Dustin Hoffman character in Rain Man, and of course the greatest eccentric detective of them all, Sherlock Holmes. Roper’s partner is the protective father figure Chief Inspector Hooley who persuades the higher ups in Scotland Yard to keep Roper on the job, has the requisite patience and sense of humor to keep him focused on the mystery.
The details of his autism are painfully accurate. To most people, Roper is weird, spooky, and rude. He is usually “glued to his computer screen and demolishing whatever food was to hand.”
When he dies he wants “a woodland burial so my body can help to provide nutrition for a tree.” He hates small talk. “You should only speak when you have something worth listening to.” He doesn’t get jokes and takes everything very literally. There is rich humor in the frustrations of “normal” people being around someone who is humorless, clueless about the feelings of other humans, and afflicted with obsessive compulsive behavior (as a child he would only eat food of the color white, and now he only wears white shirts and black coats and ties). He is especially given to tactless, blunt statements of the truth to lesser beings which seem obvious only to him.
On the other hand while Roper can’t read people -- their emotions, body language, and subtexts are mysteries he can’t solve-- he can read evidence. He has wonderful intuition and can make leaps and connections no one else can. He can tell who is coming by the sound of their footsteps, has a cinematic memory, and can sort information into imaginary mental boxes the colors of the rainbow.
Among the not so strong things in this first novel are the villains from the worlds of biotech and special forces who are a bit caricature-like. It would be nice to know more about the evil mastermind before he appears at the end since villains can be as interesting as their pursuers. Some of Roper’s deductions seem strained and not entirely credible. Descriptive details about London places, the characters’ looks and dress, etc. sometimes seem a bit like painting by the numbers and extraneous to the plot and themes of the story. And there are some annoying plot disconnects as when we open with an unexpected murder or the dumping of body of young Latvian woman in the English Channel, and then have to wait a long time to find out their motives and relevance. I was left hanging about whether anyone was going to pursue the cure for cancer discovered at such human cost.
Overall, though, this is an enjoyable read, mainly because of the entertaining Roper who ropes in the bad guys, and the Watson-like Hooley who keeps him out of hot water and struggles to follow his labyrinthine trains of thought. As the author gains experience and sets these two complementary bloodhounds on more interesting and original terrain, it will be fun to see them at work again.
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
sydney margaret
Why is it so common for writers these days to put so little effort and research into their work? Not everyone is Tom Clancy obviously but know your subject matter at least minimally. On page 11 our author describes a woman using a Smith & Wesson model 66 Combat Magnum. He tells us how she has the safety off and one round in the chamber?!? This pistol is a revolver which has no safety and the cartridges sit in the six "revolving" cylinders. A safety and a round in the chamber describe a semi-automatic pistol not a revolver! Even had I not carried a M66 on duty as an officer for many years I just looked it up on the internet and found these things out in under 3 minutes! I refuse to read authors who put no research into their writing. Stick to writing what you know about or actually work at your craft!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
karen germain
What a breath of fresh air to read a story where an autistic person is the hero. I thought his friend and boss was a great influence because he was cognizant of the fact that he was dealing with someone who processed differently. I have an autistic person in my family, so I really understood what the detective was going through to let his young detective process into in his own was. Great story. Thanks. I will get your best book!?
A Novella in the World of Kate Daniels - Magic Mourns :: Magic Rises: A Kate Daniels Novel :: Magic Strikes: Kate Daniels, Book 3 :: Magic Steals (World of Kate Daniels) :: Lily and the Octopus
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
laura wilson
This is very good, in depth story. I liked that it features an autistic detective. He really seems more aspergers in some aspects to me than autistic, however his character totally works for this book. Social skills with people are less important than solving a major crime anyway. The realism of this detective was well written. Later I found out why, and it's quite moving. This is a strong read and I hope it becomes a thriving series. I would encourage the author to keep publishing, I for one, want to read more.

My copy came from Story Cartel. My thoughts and opinions are my own. This review was left of my own free volition.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
marley
I very much enjoyed this story of detectives working a very interesting murder case with ties to a new cancer treatment, extension of life and lab research into these areas. The main officers are Brian Hooley,an older officer who leads the case, and the detective he feels is a 'surrogate' son, Jonathan Roper, a young autistic man who's special intellect sees things differently but is able to use this to solve cases quickly. We are there to see first hand the troubles and triumphs realistically and learn a little of that which people slightly different from the norm are treated and how they feel. Very happy to hear this is the start to a series and look forward to reading more with these incredible characters!
I received a download of this book from Storycartel, from which I am able to write my thoughts and I genuinely thank them.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
amr reda
I read this book upon a recommendation from a friend. I thoroughly enjoyed it and found it both well written and edited. Both of the main characters and their relationship were well developed and interesting to read about. Good story and mystery. I hope others will read this review and give this author a try.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
nathaniel dean
I got this book from Story Cartel for free in exchange for an honest review, this is it.

A really good story and a decent length, into which you can sink your teeth!

The premise of an autistic detective, is a little reminiscent of a certain TV show, but in a good way. What appears to be a kidnapping becomes something else entirely.

A great page turner!
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
kelly
It's a good detective story, but Jonathan Roper isn't what I would remotely call "autistic" . Perhaps it is on the Autism spectrum, but if it is, I would have hired a ton of these types of people to work with me. Smart, quiet, non-judgemental - unless you need an office load of joksters, chatty cathies, these people are an employer's dream!

Having had friends with autistic children, Jonathan just seems more of an "odd duck", incredibly smart, rather inclined to "anti-social" norms (can't see that as a terribly bad thing, hard for them, but not for us "normal" folk).

I quite liked him and since I am terrible at jokes, like folks who tell me the truth, and who are smart as a whip, wish they're are more folks like him. Bring him on!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
alfredo olguin
A very enjoyable, interesting detective novel. It's a variation on the Holmes/Watson genre with Detective Chief Inspector Hooley taking the Watson role and specialist Jonathan Roper playing the role of Holmes. Roper is Holmes for the modern age, with Holmes' idiosyncrasies magnified to the point where Roper is actually slightly autistic, though he can come up with deductions that no else can. I enjoyed the focus on the characters of Hooley and Roper, making them seem like real people, as well as the fast moving plot. Very well written too. I plan to pick up the sequel.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
shelly uhing
Excellent first book by Michael Lessing, with a very interesting main character Jonathan Roper, who has a functional form of autism. The fact that this character has definite rituals, has enhanced senses and doesn't really know how to relate to most people makes him a fascinating character, not your everyday mystery sleuth. Brian Hooley, and Julie Mayweather, the professional police operatives are excellent foils and also show a very human side by learning to accommodate Jonathan's quirks and standing behind him even after a major misunderstanding in a previous case has caused Jonathan to be suspended. The parallels between Sherlock Holmes and Jonathan are part of the reason I found his character to be so interesting. The plot is complicated as befits Jonathan's intellect.can't wait to read the other books in this series!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
jennifer martin
This is a very good first novel. The plot is excellent and the character development of the men is quite good. I would like to have known a bit more about DAC Mayweather and Tricia Williams; for such highly accomplished women, they appeared quite two-dimensional. I especially appreciated the respectful treatment of Roper's mind and of his ways of working. This author reminds us that human brains work in many ways and that sometimes methods that depart from what we think of as "normal" are the most effective. I'd caution him against valorizing or romanticizing autistic characters, though. My main critique is that the book is absolutely riddled with punctuation errors. Word are improperly hyphenated and there are numerous run-on sentences. These interfered with my reading pleasure and, in some cases, with my comprehension. When I'm galloping through a riveting page turner, it's irritating to have to stop and figure out what a sentence means because it was improperly punctuated. However, these are technical details that can be sorted out with the help of a good professional copy editor. I'm hoping that the other books in this series will benefit from such services; this is a good author who shouldn't let deficiencies with technical issues stand in his way. I'll definitely be reading other books in this series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
mariann davis
This is one of the best debut novels I have ever read. Not only is the story interesting and the characters excellently drawn, but there is an enormously welcome originality to this book. I don't feel like I've already read something similar, even though I've read hundreds of mystery books over the years. I also love that touches of laugh-out-loud humor intermingle perfectly with grim realism. I hope this is just the beginning of a long series, because I'm about a third of the way through the second book and it's even better. Michael Leese has just shot to the top of my favorite authors list.

I'm reading these through the Kindle Unlimited program, but I'm going to buy them so they can reside permanently on my Kindle. I highly recommend this book and the second one, "I Can See You", to any and all readers.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
yizhi
I agree with the review that said the author needs a better editor. I had to reread sentences because they were not properly punctuated and therefor hard to comprehend - and I won't even go into the endless dangling participles.... A bit derivative (Sherlock anyone). The Rainbow Spectrum annoyed me as does the Memory Palace concept of SH. The character belongs on the Asperger end of the Autism scale so the subtitle is a bit off. The ending was not right. The story would have been much better had the the ending fit with the story. All of a sudden a character that was barely introduced is the culprit and mastermind? All that said, there is definite potential and it was an easy and fairly enjoyable read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
elizabethw
I don’t read too mant five star novels but this is definitely one. It was action packed and easy to get involved with. The wrap up seemed a little rushed but it was still deserving of five stars. Roper is indeed an interesting character and I just love him to death! The storyline is a unique one but provides a lot to think about as to how we think of and treat autistic people. Kudos to the author for using his personal experience with an autistic child to show this character in such a postive light - a successful detective. I highly recommend this book.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
mikayla eckenrod
Going Under Ground is a tangled, twisted story that will keep you intrigued. The storyline was well written and with the introduction of Roper, an autistic detective, it added a brief glimpse into the world of autism and what it is like for them integrating into the mainstream of society. The build up of suspense made turning the pages very easy and I was all set for this explosive climax however, I must say I was a little disappointed with the way it all planned out. It was like lighting a stick of dynamite only to have the fuse burn out.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ginny valentine
This is another detective story of several murders, deranged scientists, and armed mercenaries. Scotland Yard is in a state of panic. Chief Inspector Brian Hooley wants to bring back autistic detective Jonathan Roper who is a talented, unique, investigator with observation skills. However, he's not very social which impacts many other personnel who work with him. This is a compelling story with lots of humor which will embrace and entertain you. I loved it!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
akilah
Underground isn't revealed until towards the end of the story but getting there is a lot of fun. Detective Jonathan Roper in his challenging process of solving crimes using his unique autistic talents leads the reader to follow a trail of logic not practiced in most police stations. Brian Hooley helps to interpret Jonathan's staggering insights and is the only colleague who does not judge his partner's idiocincrinities. A new hero that is totally enjoyable to meet. Am already reading book two and am looking to another good read.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
alexa hamilton
Excellent. As an amateur author i understand research and details that others have pointed out as a reason to lowball this book, can be difficult to overlook... if that is what you are looking for. However the story, the interaction between characters, the prejudices shown as the result of being different as well as the spot on differences and blending of investigative styles makes this novel a 5 star in my book. Thank you for a great read and a lot of things to think about and look at. Looking forward to the next one.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
joe c
Going Underground is an exceptional first in a series from Michael Leese. I'm a procedural fan and I look forward to many more with British Detective Jonathan Roper. Leese does an excellent job of portraying an Autistic detective in the Met. This is an unusual idea that really works.The story is fast moving from the first and grabs your interest early on. The characters are wonderful and well fleshed out and there is even an unexpected twist at the very end Mr. Leese certainly won't disappoint and I highly recommend this book.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
reyna
I found it engrossing the whole way through. Love the character of Roper. Glad to see people are beginning to understand more about autism. It's nothing like retarded. Quite the opposite in most cases. Being a fan of Big Bang Theory helped to understand this character more as he is very similar to Sheldon as far as socially awkward. It's fascinating to me the way the mind works in these gifted people. I thought the plot was intriguing and quite believable.. In fact I'm reading the second book now. Good show, old chap.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
burke
This was one of,the better detective stories I’ve read recently. The characters are amusing and interesting. Often the self published books,are poorly edited, but this one didn’t have wrong word usage, which is one of my pet peeves! I enjoyed how Roper describes how he thinks. I’m not autistic, but to me, numbers have always had colors in my mind. And, I think in boxes, so though my mental capacities don’t match Roper’s, I get what he’s describing! Fun read.
★ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
angela bui
I got to the first few lines and was stopped by the 'safety' on the Smith Wesson Combat Magnum. I got out before reading how she ejected the 'clip' from the same revolver. Writers who take no interest in Facts,don't interest me.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
thao nguyen
I normally read one book a week, however I read this book in 2 days. It has been a long time that a book was so suspenseful and sometimes horrifying. The two lead detectives are a unusual pairing, but you grow to respect their differences and similarities. This was a well written book, that was offered as free for prime members, so glad. I am buying the second book today. Love this author!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ben peters
I was waiting for another book by another author to become available. So, as I like mysteries, I decided to take a chance on Michael Leese's Going Underground. I am sure glad I did. I really enjoyed the characters, especially Roper and Hooley. I like how Leese gives us enough information to visualize the scenes and characters without overburdening the reader with too much description. I look forward to reading the next Jonathan Roper crime novel.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
samadhi samararatne
Well written with expressive character development in the style of Sherlock but with a modern, insightful twist. I'm a picky reader who enjoys learning while being entertained and this author is spot on. Others have written what this book is about so I will simply say I had a smile on my face as I breathed a sigh of satisfaction when the book ended. Can't wait to read more adventures featuring these two detectives!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jessica cave
M. Leese is a new author for me and I found his book under 'British Mysteries'. So darn glad I read this book. It was enjoyable and I learned a little more about 'autism'. I have read books by Estelle Ryan whose main Character is autistic. I highly recommend this book and have downloaded Michael's second book in this series. Hope there will be more to come.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
john birtwistle
I enjoyed this book and found Jonathan Roper a welcome addition to a detective squad with a new way of looking at "clues". I also thought the author presented it is a way that was very easy for me to understand and I'm looking forward to the next book to see if he has been successful with his approach...
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
justin brillhart
It a been awhile since I have found a book I liked from start to finish. This is it, autism is part of our family and I can understand some of the struggles. Warms my heart that the character is himself and is Allen to be so, and growth is also there. I will be read his books hopefully for a ver long time.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
anu mol
Going Underground is an interesting story about an autistic detective who has special skills that help him solve gruesome crimes. It’s fascinating how he can fit all the pieces together that no one else can. Yet, with all his genius he does not fit in with the real world. It’s not a deep read, but it had an exciting plot that held my attention.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
debbi gurley
I picked this book to read because I have an autistic grandson. The author does an excellent job of describing the behavior of someone who is autistic. The story was good also. I laughed at the "white " food because my grandson would not eat red food. Well worth reading. I'm on to the next in the series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
wingzz
This is a really engaging book with a bunch of unexpected twists that will catch you by surprise. At times the dialogues between Roper and Hooley turn quite pedantic, but not to the extent of a turn off and story is still quite flowing despite these hiccup moments. I am expecting to see the author will have overcome even these minor flaws in the subsequent works. Looking forward to reading other books in the series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
faye
I hope this book doesn't "go underground" (bad pun intended ;) as it is extremely well written. The storyline wasn't predictable and the character's relationship was engaging - as well as informative surround autism and how some autistic people interact with the world and others.

Simply put - the book was awesome and I'm about to dive into the second instalment!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
rolando
I love British mysteries and have read a long list of them. I must say that Hooley and Roper are two of the most memorable characters I have come across. Mr Leese does a fantastic job of sharing Roper’s thought process, but more importantly, of sharing a character (Hooley) who displays respect and compassion toward a fellow human being who thinks and acts very differently from most others. And the story is great too!! Thanks for a fun and entertaining read!!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
corinna o sullivan
jonathan roper’s character made this one an interesting and engaging read. Love the way his mind worked as he unravelled the mysteries surrounding a complex crime. Well paced and exciting plot. Hooley the DCI is a great character too and really enjoyed their relationship. Looking forward to much more.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
anshika
This was my first time reading anything by Michael Leeds and Going Underground is a hit in my mind. I didn't want to out it down and kept reading until the end. You meet Jonathan, a detective and autistic, Hooley, his boss and one of the few people who tolerate him. It was fascinating to see his mind work and to solve the crimes. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
gavin mcdonnell
I really liked this book, for many different reasons. It was a very well written detective novel, but also it showed that with a small amount of patience and encouragement that someone who most people don't like can become a friend and a colleague. It also shows that if you give someone a chance, it will amaze you at what they can accomplish.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
lindz marsh
I loved this book. It was not only a winning page-turner of a detective novel, it gave a very realistic look at life with an Autistic person. I was enthralled by the tidbits and insights dropped by Roper as he discovered the truth in his own unique way, and loved the descrip[tions of what made him "tick".
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
laura crowley
i really enjoyed this book. i loved roper's character and was pleased to find a book with an autistic detective. the story was well written and the characters interesting, especially roper and hooley. i am going to read the second book as soon as i finish this review. mr. leese, as long as you write stories about jonathan roper, i will happily read them.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
heather groves edwards
Interesting characters and can be useful in helping people understand how autism affects people who are diagnosed with it and how they are perceived by people around them. Roper is truly an interesting character and the plot keeps you hooked till the end.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
laurie owyang
WOW! This story seemed so convoluted at first but as Roper and Hooley investigate and gather more evidence and information, it begins to make sense to Roper. He is autistic and very quirky but also very intuitive with some almost paranormal abilities. This is a dark and violent story but is fascinating as well.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
mayra cordero
Absolutely chiller of a book. Read it non-stop. The characters were so believable and that Roper was autistic or more like a savant made reading to see what he would do next exciting. Just ordered next book. Keep them coming. Any reader will not be disappointed.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
karl catabas
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is definitely a page-turner, as evidenced by the hour at which I am writing. It reminded me at once of Agatha Christie, Rainman, and The Tunnel, with a dash of Monk, as well. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
aaron post
I am so delighted to have found this new series of mysteries. The concept of a autistic detective is original and intriguing. Having worked with students on the spectrum, the ability to focus completely on details rings so true. I just ordered the third book in the series. I would recommend these highly.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
amber beasley
Wow, I'm glad I found this author. This book was a fast, smooth read. Great story, many twists and turns, and believable characters. Excellent job in editing - no typos or grammar issues, just a well-written book. I highly recommend this book!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
keeley
As a parent of an autistic son who's 9, I absolutely LOVE Jonathan Roper and DCI Hooley's relationship. This series is amazing, I've blown through all 3 books in no time! It is an amazing way to shine through a remarkable team. Great job!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
hanngrenade
The detective in this book suffers from traits of autism. Utilizing these traits makes for a very interesting murder investigation. The characters are interesting and I look forward to more on Jonathan Roper.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
michael logan
I'm a retired physician. In my long 57 year career I have encountered only one Aspergers case. Roper's character is very well drawn compared to my own experience..

I really enjoyed reading this novel mainly for the character development of the main characters.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
mckenna
Wow, really enjoyed this book. Totally different take on a police detective.
Goes to show that having autism is not a detriment, but truly offering different points of view when looking at a problem.
So I say, read on. Starting the next. Thank you for writing...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
mr brammer
Jonathan Roper is autistic and brilliant. While he makes leaps in thinking that may not be realistic, it doesn't disturb the flow of the story enough to disrupt your reading. You stay engaged. His partner Hooley interacts very realistically. Their dialogue is natural. The action flows smoothly. I will continue to read this series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
eric castorena
I have read many mysteries and I thoroughly enjoyed this read. My first read by this author and will definitely be reading more. The main characters worked well together and the story line was well developed.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jan jepsen
My spouse has Asperger's Syndrome, and I saw many of the same quirks and behaviors in Roper that I've learned to live with every day for the past 27 years. (A most interesting education!) Looking forward to reading the second Jonathan Roper book.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
amy swihart
Completely different detectives, for a change! I've already downloaded the second book - and I'm looking forward to the third. A real change of pace from the average detective story, and very satisfying all around.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
e mark pelmore
I really liked it. I enjoy hearing how people see things so clearly which others do not. The character of Roper reminds me a bit of Sherlock which Johnnie Lee Miller plays in the TV program Elementary. I absolutely love that program and thus enjoyed this book as well .
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
donna hurwitt
Great read. I could,nt put this book down. Great character development. It was so nice to have the problem solverbe some one other than a tough, troubled female. Please lose the bad language thougb, it doesn't add to the story so why use it?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
preston
I enjoyed this book so much immediately downloaded the other books in the series and I hope there are more books to come. Three books aren’t nearly enough. Love all the characters. Laugh out loud funny.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
tricia lynn harter
I first chose this book because I am interested in autism . My grand daughter is autistic, and I am always interested in how autism is treated in fiction. I was pleased that the author did not simply describe aberrant behavior and mannerisms, but focused on how different ways of thinking and processes could be of value in society and the workplace.
But that would not have kept me reading. The plot was intriguing with twists and surprise. Will read the next book in the series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
mercedes
I loved this book - mainly because of the Roper character. It was refreshing to see a "hero" of a different sort. The method Roper developed for himself as a means to categorize and sort clues is fascinating. Thank you, Michael, for a new kind of protagonist. And lest I forget, Hooley is a special kind of person for seeing Roper's abilities and his patience in allowing Roper to follow his own path. Well done!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
renee keefe
Great read! Loved that story line kept my interest totally and really enjoyed the understanding and information of how autism was betrayed by main character-will be watching for next book in the series,
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
nikko
I enjoyed reading the book and will read more by this author. This was my first one and I enjoyed the characters they were easy to follow where some books take a few chapters to figure out who is who. I liked Jonathan character. I did not like some of the language, if this is a continuous pattern I might find another author.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
kevin tharayil
This was an excellent read. It had all you could ask for in a great detective novel, but what made it really special were the insights provided to those who don't realize how brilliant and productive those that suffer from autism can be. It will hopefully change the way many people view the challenges facing autistic adults and children and help pave the way for happy and productive lives.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
lysle huddleston
Thoroughly enjoyed this first of
(Hopefully) many by Michael Leese about autistic detective Roper and his fellow detectives. The book gave insight into the thought processes of this insightful detective and how he arrived at his conclusions which solved a particularly heinous plot.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
reena
I read a lot but am not a professional just a book lover. This was a very entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable book. I really liked the friendship between the two characters and was happy with the kindness and quirkiness of both.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
haania
Good thriller; many twists and turns. Also, I enjoyed seeing the world through the eyes of the autistic character. My grandson is on the spectrum, which is why I selected to read this book. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good mystery thriller.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
lilou1625
I enjoyed reading Michael Lees debut novel and the interesting characters he has introduced. Jonathan Roper, and the contrast between his genius for debt section and his deep lack of people skills could prove to be an insightful addition to the genre. I liked the interaction between Hooley and Roper as well as the report they have with their boss Meriweather. The plot was a bit wobbly at times, but had some innovative ideas.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sharon beecroft
Great story line, excellent character development, and getting it all together in the end. Loved the detail from the police perspective and Roper's character and process insightful and well told. Thoroughly enjoyed this book
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
matt barker
Really enjoyed Jonathan Roper's unique personality and how he processed information. The ending made me smile. He won in more ways than one. This is the first book by Michael Leese that I have read and will not be my last
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
kendra soule
I enjoyed this book overall, as I am a fan of British detective novels and I loved the television series Monk. Despite some awkward or abrupt transitions, the story is well written and the series shows a lot of promise.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
blair
This book was donated to the library where I work entering books into our system. I have two good friends both of whom are grandmothers to boys with autism. I recommended the book to them and then thought I should read it too. Wow, what a terrific (as in terrifying) story! And the hero is Johnathan Roper. An entirely credible and totally engaging book. Thank you, Michael Leese.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jenna mca
I am a voracious and exacting mystery reader and Going Underground was a welcome surprise! It is well-written and the quirky characters are developed just enough to be engaging without going overboard into patronizing or ignorant. I am so excited to read the rest of the series!! And, a bonus that makes it a standout in the Unlimited library: it’s well edited. :)
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
amible gal
I like British crime fiction and this has a unique main character. Author did a nice job showing the limitations and strengths without getting too wrapped in it. It does need some tighter editing and proofing but am definitely reading book 2.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
ella elonen
I loved this debut and can’t wait to read the other two books in the series. Jonathan Roper is totally believable as the autistic detective and Hooley is a new favorite character. Thanks for a great read!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
jenell
A great read. This book was interesting from start to finish with lots of characters that offered snippets of information to help develop the plot. The book served two purposes.-- not only did it provide a well thought out mystery but also provided a significant view of the thought processes of those who are autistic. I enjoyed it thoroughly and look forward to book 2 to learn more about Jonathan Roper's special talents.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
karen gwidt
The insights into an autistic way of thinking makes this novel even more intriguing than it would normally be. The combination of the taciturn DCI and his assistant is a compelling factor, keeping the reader involved throughout the story.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
luisa toledo
What a surprise...this gem of a book sucked me in, and I could not put it down. Great characters and snappy dialogue. This was a treat. Don't want to say anything more as the surprise of the characters and plot twists .... you have to discover for yourself. This author, Michael Leese was a real find.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
jen hayes
Thoroughly enjoyed Going Underground. Especially the lead characters Jonathan Roper, an investigator with autism, and his boss DCI Brian Hooley. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
alandra weaver
This was a very well written and enjoyable book. To be honest I picked it at random via Kindle Unlimited but I will be finishing the series and look forward to future books. Kudos to Mr. Leese for breaking stereotypes of heroes and autistic (and othrrs on the spectrum) people.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
cavin
I really enjoyed this book, I love crime murder mysteries and I especially loved the character of Roper. It’s great to see an adult with autistism portrayed as the genius investigator. And the plot was good.
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
andita saviera
I liked this book. I cannot finish a book if it is not sufficiently interesting to me or have good characters. This book had both. I look forward to more fully fleshed out characters and perhaps a little more believable story line.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
julie page
Intriguing characters, unique story line and great pacing. The two main characters are the type I find myself thinking about when I'm away from the book. I'm just about to start the next book in the series, after finishing the first at nearly midnight.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
francis
Terrific book series. Have read all 3, in rapid sequence. Villains are diabolical, human aspect of crime solving team is well done. Highly recommend the author/series. Absolutely loved all three in the series.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
trie
I enjoyed the detective character with autism. A very original and clever idea. I have personal experience with a nephew who is nonverbal and a great a mason who is high functioning and on the spectrum. I really hope you write more stories with detective Roped! Great Book!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
charlotte phillips
What a wonderful surprise this book turned out to be. I love the characters and how they related to each other. The storyline is very good as well. Halfway though I decided to recommend it to other mystery lovers.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
andreai
What really enjoyed was just a really good read. Main person just looks at things the same each time while building process that he may use on everything. While most people look a things differently each time. Really easy to understand and follow the plot.
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
linda
I was very pleasantly surprised at the quality of this book. I found it very difficult to put down. As a person who is involved with autism I found it captured the condition perfectly. The story was very good and I look forward to reading the second book
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
olfat daoud
Great read. Well developed characters and believable story-line. Thought the autistic Jonathon Roper would make for a difficult read but so glad I gave this book a chance. A little disappointed in the rather abrupt ending.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
sheila
Enough character development to be juicy, but doesn't overtake the plot. Great story and view into an autistic mind. The DC and Roper's relationship is special and their commitment unwavering. Loved it!
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
dan stryker
I really enjoyed the pace of this book and the unexpected turns and twists. The author's writing style is very smooth and understandable , yet complex. I look forward to reading the additional books in the series.
Please RateBritish Detective (Jonathan Roper investigates Book 1)
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