SLAUGHTERHOUSE

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It's the anniversary of the date he lost his family and Jack doubts he'll ever find those responsible. Depression has taken hold and he can't take it anymore. He's ready to end it and pulls out his Beretta, but as he fingers the trigger, Ray shows up at the eleventh hour with news that may finally answer what happened to Jack's family.

Jack soon finds himself pulled into San Francisco's underbelly and his life threatened at the hands of the city's more deadly Chinese gang, the Jade Dragons, and their leader, Li Zihao, has the answers Jack’s looking for. Including who the man was who killed himself in Jack’s house and left the note simply saying I’m sorry.

Is Jack ready for the truth?

~*~

San Francisco, California

Thursday – 25th of March

Grief was a monster. 

It had taken up residence inside Jack the night he lost his family. Every day for four years, his squatter took pleasure in eviscerating him until he no longer recognized himself and every inch of his body cried out in anguish.

His leather jacket creaked as he reached for the bottle of Jameson he'd taken from Nick's office the day of his funeral. Jack's hand shook as he poured a measure into the two cut crystal tumblers then set them aside.

Not yet.

As was tradition, he'd wait until he was ready before downing his.

He'd switched off his phone's ringer earlier, but it started vibrating again, telling him there was another incoming call. He pushed it away. He didn't want to talk to anyone, and certainly didn't want anyone talking him out of what he was here to do.

Hot tears coursed down his cheeks like liquid fire. He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to block the burning pressure behind them. Hard pounding in his chest forced blood into his head until it felt like his skull would explode. The firm whoosh in his ears drowned out ambient sounds around him. He raked his fingers through his hair, pressing his palms against his head to force away the pain. It didn't help.

He pulled the leather jacket tightly around him, hugging his arms around his middle, and rocked back and forth, trying to suppress his sobbing.

This was Jack Slaughter, losing his shit.

Not yet, he kept chanting.

He hadn't been back to the house since the day he'd found the dead man slouched behind the dining table—where he currently sat—chunks of his brain, skull, and hair stuck to the wall in the splatter. The forensic team had removed as much of it as they could, but the blood stain still fanned out across the plasterwork where the man had held his head before pulling the trigger. Memory forced the man's distorted face into the splatter void. Jack looked away with disgust.

The man had broken in to commit suicide, but there was still no answer why he'd done it or chosen Jack's house to do it in. Just the note he'd left behind simply saying I'm sorry.

Jack wasn't upset about the man's suicide. No, not that. Once someone decided to take their own life, there was no talking them out of it. He was pissed eight ways from Sunday because, in his last moments, the guy could have explained a few things before calling it a day. I'm sorry wasn't a confession or the typical last note suiciders left behind.

What had this asshole's note meant? Was he sorry for breaking the door glass when he accessed the house and that's why he'd carefully stacked it on the table and left it beside his vague note? Was he sorry for choosing this house to kill himself because it looked abandoned? Or was he sorry because he was the one responsible for destroying Jack's family and he could no longer live with himself? 

So many questions Jack would never have answers to, and without them, he felt his monster pulling him so deep into his anguish that there was only one way out.

For all Jack knew, the guy was probably the only link to what had happened to Leah, and the only one who could have told him why his daughter had to die—she'd only been two, for fuck's sake. Jack would never know the truth because the jerkoff had killed himself.

Of course, Jack was no longer on the job, so he wasn't privy to the investigation. Even though Ray was close to Jack, his friend was being unusually tightlipped. Probably on Haniford's orders. So was Cutter. Jack understood but it didn't mean he was happy about any of it.

His phone vibrated again. He didn't know who was trying to reach him and he didn't care. Why hadn’t he just turned off the damn phone completely? Why couldn’t he do it now?

He gazed past the phone to the opposite end of the dining table. Zoë's highchair had been moved into the living room so investigators could examine the crime scene before the coroner removed the man's body. The table had been pushed out of the way too, but Jack had moved it back before sitting down.

I should have moved the highchair back too.

He considered going to get it but didn't. Would that have made a difference or changed things? Probably not.

He inhaled long and slow then closed his eyes again and let his memories replace everything that had been taken from him—the light from the evening sun filtering through the front window and moving across the living room to brighten the dining area; the sound of Leah singing in the kitchen while she cooked and the smell of her marinara; Trax rushing to meet Jack at the door and stuffing his nose in his hand, wanting to be petted; and Zoë in her booster chair at the end of the table, clapping her hands and trying to sing along with Leah. He smiled and let the feelings of love and joy fill him. This is the final vision he wanted in his mind . . . when it was time.

Abruptly, in his mind, he stood in the center of the kitchen and the horror of that night flooded back. He started shaking again.

~*~

REVIEWS

BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024

2024 was a fantastic reading year. I struggled to pick the favorite from the top four because they were so good and I highly recommend all of them. My #1 favorite book for the year is Slaughterhouse by K.A. Lugo.

This book was chosen because the main character has a lot of mileage on my heart. I've been to hell and back with this character, tears and laughter. There's also a lot of hope that this character will find the justice he deserves and has been waiting and searching for.

Much love, praise and gratitude to the very talented K.A. Lugo for this book and for the others in the Jack Slaughter series. - Sherri Bryant Reviews (see original review below)

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Brilliant Story!

I have been looking forward to my Jack Slaughter fix for a while and K.A. Lugo packs a punch right from the start! Chapter 1 pulled no punches and I thought I was going to have to put this book in the freezer. Thankfully for my Kindle, no freezer action was required as Ray shows up with news that Jack has been waiting to hear for the last four years. My heart breaks for the pain and agony Jack is experiencing. His daughter and family dog are brutally murdered and his wife’s whereabouts are unknown. Her body has never been found. Jack often wonders if she is still alive or if she is the one responsible even for this devastation. I can completely empathize with what Jack is going through and understand why he wants to end it and be with his family again. Being told that the man who committed suicide in his home may have been involved in his family’s murder lights a fire under Jack as he knows in his gut it goes much deeper than a random homicide. Not only was it great to be back in Jack’s world again, but it was also wonderful to see Ray. I love the relationship these two brothers from another mother share. They will always have each other’s six, but it goes beyond the badge. They are family and Ray proves it over and over again even when Jack keeps pushing him away. Their verbal sparring is so enjoyable to witness and even when they are angry with one another, it doesn’t last long. Of course, Jack gives Ray plenty to be angry with him about. This story proceeds at a very fast pace, full of tense moments but also moments of laughter and moments of tears. The characters are so well developed, they feel real and are people the reader will care about. The city of San Francisco and surrounding area is a character in this series as well. The locales are expertly researched and described so vividly, the reader will get a keen sense of being able to visualize what Jack and Ray see. My Final Verdict: Slaughterhouse is an excellent read, but you must read the series in order. K.A. Lugo has created a world and characters that the reader can grow with and get to know better with each book. I highly recommend this book and the whole series to fans of mysteries, thrillers, police procedurals and action stories. Thank you, K.A. Lugo for giving me so many hours of reading enjoyment. - Sherri Bryant, Amazon, Goodreads, Bookworm News and Reviews

Gritty writing and a tight plotline bring “Slaughterhouse” to life. P. I. Jack Slaughter is in a bad place, and K. A. Lugo knows how to project that his very soul is in anguish. Jack is a man of many facets running from brusque to witty in this intense thriller. He takes on a different persona in this action-packed story, trying to solve what happened to his family. His cohort, Ray Navarro is endearing and a strong major character. He acts as Jack’s conscience although Jack often chooses to ignore his voice of reason. Captivating scenes engage the reader and often has one sitting on the edge of their seat in anticipation of what happens next. Haniford, as Ray’s superior adds strife as Jack goes against protocol in his latest case. The world building is superb and once started, this novel is impossible to put down. The plot has several unexpected twists and a great ending that segues into the next novel. A stand-alone novel, it is best if the previous two stories are read first. A gut wrenching story, it is a tribute to K. A. Lugo’s genius. No thriller library is complete without this series. - Belinda, Goodreads and Amazon

*

“Slaughterhouse” delivers a thrilling tale of suspense that will have readers speeding through the pages faster than a 90 mph coastal ride on a Harley Fatboy! Jack's despair is palpable which will get a stranglehold on readers' hearts as it wafts from the page like a cold misty fog from the San Francisco Bay. Ray’s steadfast loyalty and love provides the worry, anger, and humor of a longstanding friendship, keeping Jack grounded. The vivid descriptions of the landmarks and streets of San Francisco manage to inform, while also ensnaring the reader's imagination. A masterful tale of one man's mission to find answers using his deductive skills, a few friendly favors, and possibly the help of a guardian angel to solve the mystery of his family's slaughter – and hopefully slay a den of dragons. K. A. Lugo delivers a heartbreaking, heart-pounding tale of angst and suspense that pulls readers in from page one and holds them tight until it's done! - Tonya M, InD'Tale Magazine

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JACK DOES IT AGAIN

Another home run from K.A. Lugo and Jack. As in the two previous books this one does not disappoint. In the first chapter the author got me, I thought. oh no now Jack has done it, that one was a gotcha for sure. There are many surprises in the chapters that follow and as usual just when you think you're as clever as the author and you know who did it only to find out not this time. This goes on through the entire story. The author has done their homework when it comes to San Francisco. There doesn't seem to be any room for made up locations as well as travel. As Jack makes his way around the city, all of the streets, roads, and highways have been well researched, one could follow along and not get lost. A couple of final thoughts, there are three books so far in the series. and each gets better, the author hasn't run out of surprises. Jack Slaughter would make a great sequel for an up to date Dirty Harry. - Richard Lee, Amazon

*

The characters are a big part of what makes this series work. I absolutely love the relationship between Jack and Ray, and the rest of the supporting cast also add a special spark to the book (not to give away any spoilers but I absolutely loved the 666s!) The action is nonstop…with twists and turns I definitely didn’t see coming… and just when you think things couldn’t get any worse, you find out differently. This book will literally keep you reading just so you can find out what is coming next! I’m looking forward to the next installment in Jack’s story. Thank you, Ms. Lugo, for a wonderful character. - Long and Short Reviews, Bookbub, Goodreads

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In Slaughterhouse, the reader is reintroduced to Jack Slaughter, a man of many emotions, and a lot of baggage, that his always kept in the back of his mind, and is always for front in his heart. Slaughterhouse is part of the Jack Slaughter Thrillers series, and this is volume three. I am a big fan of K.A. Lugo and wants to read whatever this author writes. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. I think this is one of my favorites, because there is the lingering grief that is reintroduced when the anniversary of his family's death is coming up, and there are still no leads as to who killed them. Jack is an intriguing and rugged character, perfectly fit for the stories that are written for him, and about him. A new case comes to light, when a man kills himself in Jack's home, and Jack is almost ready to eat his own Beretta. But things take a new turn, and Jack can't help but pull himself up and get to work. Slaughterhouse not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. A very unpredictable story, my favorite kind! A marvelous story, with layered characters, both perfect and flawed. Slaughterhouse is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. - Amy's Bookshelf Reviews, Amazon

*

“Slaughterhouse” by KA Lugo delves into the gripping narrative of Jack Slaughter, whose life is marred by the anniversary of a tragic event that claimed his family. Struggling with depression, Jack contemplates the unthinkable, only to be interrupted by Ray, offering a lead on the mysterious suicide in Jack’s home. The revelation propels Jack into the perilous underbelly of San Francisco, where the enigmatic Jade Dragons, a deadly Chinese gang, pose a constant threat. The storyline maintains a relentless pace, marked by tension, sorrow, and sporadic moments of humor. Amidst the shadows of grief, the book explores Jack’s resilience and his pursuit of answers. The thematic undercurrents of loss and danger are intertwined with the complexities of Jack’s emotional journey. The inclusion of the Jade Dragons introduces an element of unpredictability, escalating the stakes for Jack as he navigates the hazardous cityscape. The juxtaposition of fast-paced action with Jack’s introspective moments creates a multifaceted reading experience, capturing the essence of a thrilling mystery. Integral to Jack’s journey are the relationships that sustain him. The steadfast camaraderie that Ray and his wife provide becomes a beacon of support in Jack’s tumultuous life. As Jack confronts the mysteries surrounding his family’s destruction, the narrative weaves a poignant tapestry of friendship amidst chaos. In the third installment of the series, “Slaughterhouse” provides a riveting continuation of the series, raising the question of whether Jack is truly prepared for the profound truths that may await him. A content warning for suicide ideation underscores the emotional depth of this multifaceted tale. - Gina Rae Mitchell, Goodreads, Gina Rae Mitchell blog

*

Brilliant, tense, emotional

A brilliant, captivating new installment in an unforgettable thriller series. First, let me say, you do not need to read any of the other books in the series to enjoy this. Lugo does an amazing job of filling in the gaps for relevant information, weaving it in smoothly with the overall narrative. The images are vivid, and a few might twist your heart. By the end of chapter one, I wanted answers as badly as Jack, and I was completely wrapped up in the mystery presented. Lugo doesn’t shy away from the emotional side of things, and you get some very raw feelings flowing off the page at times. If you enjoy tense thrillers that will have you on the edge of your seat, you’re going to want to grab this! - Liliyana Shadowlyn, Amazon, The Fairy Review blog

*

Strong writing. Compelled to keep reading. Loved it. This was kind of WOW. There was a lot of action, some sad moments, almost heart-breaking moments, and actually a lot of support for Jack. Jack still had a problem dealing with the loss of his family, thought he had it solved, and then found out there was more about his own home that he did not know. At least he made a decision about being a cop versus a PI. I loved the MC cover he utilized and how he had backup that he did not expect. I wish he could see outside of his misery. I look forward to the next in the series. - Christine Woinich, Goodreads, Amazon, Nook, and Iron Canuck Reviews

*

"I found that when reading these three books the storyline is a compelling read. The author holds nothing back and the reader gets the feel of San Francisco and its underbelly of crime...This is a gritty series, not for the faint of heart. Series that I am looking for the next installment that will maybe let the reader know where Leah is. Alive or dead, whichever it may be, Jack needs closure. I give this book 5 stars for its originality and of course the writing!"  - Kathleen K, Celtic Lady Reviews, Goodreads, Amazon and Bookbub

*

I couldn’t wait to dive into Slaughterhouse especially after reading the first two books in the Jack Slaughter Thrillers. I definitely can’t wait for the next book to arrive especially after that ending. The story is not definitely complete in my opinion. Although Slaughterhouse did tie up the lose ends for this story there are still lots of unanswered questions that I am anxiously waiting to find out about. The suspense will keep you hanging on page after page and book after book as well. The descriptions are spot on making it so easy to follow the story and see it all in my head as it plays out...Slaughterhouse is chocked full of twists and turns that is still hanging on. KA Lugo knows how to write a story that will keep you hooked and hanging on even after you have read the last page. What a ride Slaughterhouse has been. I love how KA Lugo can make you feel so much emotion for Jack. She pulls you into the story from the first page and will keep you hanging on right up until the end wondering what was going to happen next. If I haven’t said it before I will say it now I am truly loving reading the Jack Slaughter Thrillers very much. I highly recommend picking up a copy of Slaughterhouse today! I would also like to suggest giving the first two books in the series a read as well. Grab a copy of book one Slaughtered and book two Witness to Slaughter as well. As I am sure you don’t want to miss any of Jack’s story. - The Avid Reader

*

Jack has hit a dark point in his life...Ray shows up at just the right moment with just the right incentive to draw Jack back into the search for information that might provide closure to what really happened four years ago in the house he once lived in with his beloved wife, daughter, and pet.

I liked:

Jack, unable to move on from the traumatic death of his wife and daughter, needs ...a focus for his future;

Ray’s family, a support and safe happy place for Jack...feeling that there is hope for Jack;

Plot, pacing, setting, and writing... San Francisco and the tidbits of history about the city;

The missing persons part of the story and the bread crumbs that tantalized Jack...the Jade Dragon tie-in...

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more in this series? Definitely - Cathy, Goodreads

*

I didn't know what to expect from this book but I was pleasantly surprised by the plot and the character develement of Jack slaughter. It was a wild ride from page one to The end and the cliffhanger was to die for. - Karen, Goodreads and Amazon

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"This story was really well written...I was engaged from the first chapter..." - Country Mamas with Kids blog

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