The Dead Detective Casefiles
by Tj O’Connor
October 28 – December 13, 2024 Virtual Book Tour
DYING TO KNOW
Detective Oliver Tucker’s dead—murdered—and back as an earth-bound spirit to help his wife, Professor Angela Tucker, crack the most important case of his life—his own. But, this is not a ghost story; it’s a murder case.
Tuck knows why he is back among the living but not one of them—Detective Solve Thyself. Perhaps he was murdered because of his last case—a murder involving a retired mob boss, a local millionaire land developer, a New York hit man, and the local university elite. Or could it be that Bear Braddock, his best friend and partner for more than fifteen years, wants Angela? Tuck knows that everything surrounds Kelly’s Dig where the discovery of Civil War graves may put an end to a multi-million dollar highway project. If it does, who stands to gain the most? Enough to kill?
Using his unique skills, Tuck weaves through half-truths and generations-old lies chasing a madman. And he’s not alone—others, dead and alive—are hunting the same killer. Still nothing can change the truth—it is the living, not the dead, who are most terrifying.
DYING FOR THE PAST
Still an earth-bound spirit-detective, Tuck is on the case of the murder of a mysterious philanthropist with ties to the Russian mob and 1930’s gangsters. With the help of his wife, Professor Angela Tucker, and his former partner, Detective Bear Braddock, they must find the killer and be the first to read “the book”—an old gangster’s journal of the roots of espionage, racketeering, and corruption leading to the identity of modern-day powerbrokers and spies. Tuck finds a colorful cast of allies in a tough Assistant U.S. Attorney General, a secretive FBI agent, and the spirits of a long-dead 1930’s gangster and his sassy girlfriend.
As Tuck searches to learn the secrets of “the book,” he begins to unravel his own ancestry of mobsters, adventurers, and wayward spirits. Is being a ghost hereditary?
DYING TO TELL
Detective Oliver Tucker never knew how perilous dying was until he stumbled onto William Mendelson—murdered in a hidden vault where Egyptian relics and World War II secrets were once stashed. Now those relics are missing. The secrets are coming out. The dead are talking.
Tuck, the detective for the dead—the Dead Detective—is pulled into the case by the spirit of a World War II Office of Strategic Services operative with his own agenda. OSS Captain Ollie Tucker I—Tuck’s namesake—knows the past is catching up to the survivors of an Egyptian spy ring from more than seventy years ago. With the help of his beautiful and brilliant wife, Angel, and his gruff former partner, Detective Bear Braddock, Tuck must unravel a tale of spies, murderers, and thieves.
As Tuck’s case unfolds, he confronts the growing distance between his death and Angel’s life—and the solution is a killer of its own.
Praise for The Dead Detective Casefiles:
“O’Connor’s The Dead Detective Casefiles series is a must read for those who like mysteries with a dash of history, a hard-boiled twist, and a pinch of paranormal.”
~ Heather Weidner, Author of the Jules Keene Glamping Mysteries
“Tj O’Connor is a master storyteller who can have you gasping in suspense one moment and snorting coffee through your nose the next. In the Dead Detective Casefiles, he seamlessly merges mystery, humor, and paranormal so authentically that the reader never gives a second thought to the concept of the main character, Detective Oliver Tucker, actually being dead. ”
~ Annette Dashofy, USA Today Bestselling author of the Zoe Chambers Mystery Series
Book Details:
Genre: PI Cozy Mystery
Published by: Level Best Books
Publication Date: September 2024
Series: The Dead Detective Casefiles
Read an excerpt from DYING TO KNOW:
One
Dying is overrated. Murder, on the other hand, is not.
Trust me, after fifteen years as a detective, I know a lot about both. Like death and murder are always complicated, but not always related. You can have death without murder, but not the other way around. That’s what I used to think anyway. I changed my mind after an episode of my recurring nightmare. I’d been having it for years and it always turned out the same. While chasing a bad guy in the dark, he turned and shot me. I was about to die when something always pulled me from the nightmare.
This time, it was Hercule’s hot breath.
My four-year-old black Lab was standing beside my bed alternating between low growls and a tongue-lashing. Both demanded my attention. When my eyes first opened, he lapped at my face and nudged me with his big, wet nose. I forced my eyes open wider and at the same time realized that Angel was not snuggled beside me in bed. She was standing across the room and listening at our bedroom door.
“Angel, did you hear something again?” She always heard things late at night and always felt compelled to share them with me. “Are you sure?”
“Yes, Tuck. Herc can hear it, too. Wake up, will you? What kind of detective are you?”
“The asleep-kind.”
“Just get up. Please?”
Hercule froze, nose down, staring at me as we both heard creaking floorboards in the downstairs hall. I rolled sideways and sat on the side of the bed. Hercule crept away and crouched near the door. For the third time, something interrupted Angel’s sleep. The first two times were just our old house’s creaks and groans, and both failed to wake Hercule out of a stone-cold sleep. Now, after summoning me, he was poised for homeland defense.
I got to my feet and gathered my clothes littered in a strategic path across the room. I nearly toppled over slipping on my jeans and a black tee shirt and did manage to trip over my running shoes.
Angel motioned for Herc to return to the bed. To me she whispered, “Hurry up.”
“Look, if I’m going to get killed tonight, I don’t want to be naked.” I grabbed my 40-caliber Glock from the nightstand and checked the chamber. Then, I retrieved a .38 revolver from our walk-in closet and handed it to Angel. “Just in case.”
“Okay. Be careful.”
“Keep Herc close, babe. If it’s your imagination, stay awake and lose those pjs. If it’s trouble, give me fifteen minutes—then lose them.”
Even in the dark, I could see her eyes roll. “Just be careful.”
At the door, I listened but heard nothing. I winked at Angel and Hercule on the bed and whispered, “I love you—you too, Angel.”
Hercule wagged his tail.
In the hallway, I waited for my eyes to adjust a little more to the darkness. I shifted them to use my peripheral vision, looking for any telltale movement. Still nothing. From the top of the stairs, I could just make out the foyer below and did not see or hear anything. There were no wispy shadows, no running feet, and no creaking floorboards. Yawning, I eased down the stairs with my Glock out in front of me. At the bottom landing, I stopped.
Darkness and the grandfather clock greeted me—it chimed two.
The downstairs was quiet and I checked the front door. It was still locked and there were no signs of splintered wood, broken glass, or other forced entry. The only sound I heard was my own breathing. The only curious sighting was the half-dressed, frumpy guy in the hall mirror who looked tired and irritated.
Maybe Angel would be losing those pjs sooner rather than later.
I started with the kitchen and worked my way around the first floor, searching room by room—all five of them—ending in my den. Nothing. The most dangerous thing I found was Hercule’s squeaky frog that scared the crap out of me when I stepped on it. I felt foolish and decided to head back to bed.
It hit me when I reached to turn off my desk lamp.
The light shouldn’t have been on. I looked around. My briefcase wasn’t in its ritual place on my credenza. It was on my chair and the contents strewn over my desk. Everything was dumped out—my gold detective’s badge and I.D., several files, a notepad, tape recorder, and my .380 backup piece.
No, the Walther wasn’t there—the holster was empty.
“Angel …” I bolted to the stairs and looked up.
Floorboards groaned above me. A door opened in the darkness beyond the landing. Movement—a shadow.
Somewhere above, Angel called, “Tuck.”
There was a flash at the top of the stairs … a shot.
I lunged for the third stair. A figure stepped out of the darkness twelve feet above me.
Another flash.
“Angel!”
***
Excerpt from DYING TO KNOW by Tj O’Connor. Copyright 2014/2024 by Tj O’Connor. Reproduced with permission from Tj O’Connor. All rights reserved.
Author Bio:
Tj O’Connor is an award-winning author of mysteries and thrillers. He’s an international security consultant specializing in anti-terrorism, investigations, and threat analysis—life experiences that drive his novels. With his former life as a government agent and years as a consultant, he has lived and worked around the world in places like Greece, Turkey, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom, and throughout the Americas—among others. In his spare time, he’s a Harley Davidson pilot, a man-about-dogs (and now cats), and a lover of adventure, cooking, and good spirits (both kinds). He was raised in New York’s Hudson Valley and lives with his wife, Labs, and Maine Coon companions in Virginia where they raised five children who supply a growing tribe of grands.
Catch Up With Tj O’Connor:
tjoconnor.com
Goodreads
BookBub – @tj37
Amazon Author
Instagram – @tjoconnorauthor
Twitter/X – @Tjoconnorauthor
Facebook – @TjOConnor.Author
YouTube – @tjoconnorauthor3905
Tour Participant Reviews:
‘I chose to read and review all of them and it simply was gut feeling, the bizarre feeling that tells you are going to love the books… a very pleasant surprise, a set of novels that mixes paranormal, noir, a pinch of romance, and a lot of everything. There’s plenty of twists, surprises and the solutions are always satisfying. So go, get them and have fun.’
~ Scrapping and playing Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘Its ghostly premise and historical mysteries make this three-book series a must-read! While I loved the premise of the ghostly detective, it was the historical mysteries that kept me engaged and compelled to read each new addition to the series. As the stories unfold, so do the details of Tuck’s previous life and the intricacies of his afterlife. He never knew death would be so complicated. I recommend THE DEAD DETECTIVE CASEFILES to mystery readers, especially those who enjoy a touch of the paranormal in their stories.’
~ Guatemala Paula Loves to Read Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘Tuck’s character is mouthy, smart, and industrious, ferreting out clues and information using his newfound abilities while also moving through space and time in unusual ways. The mysteries here are complex and well-plotted and plumped up by dialog that is by turns snarky and sparkling. I’ll be recommending this series and author for sure.’
~ It’s All About the Book Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘Dying to Know is a great mystery filled with twists, turns, and suspense. I love the idea behind a detective who is murdered and comes back to solve his own case. I was entertained throughout and the author’s writing kept me engaged, not wanting to put the book down. Dying for the Past is a great mystery filled with so many twists and turns that you’ll swear you were riding a rollercoaster. I loved Book 2 as much as Book 1. As with Book 1, the creativity of this book will draw the reader in from the very beginning. The plot flows along nicely and is very smooth. Dying to Tell is the third book in the Dead Detective Casefiles. The murder, the missing relics, exposure of WWII secrets, a spy ring, and introduction of new characters keeps the reader involved, engaged, and on the edge of their seat. This books is a great mystery filled with so many twists and turns. The characters are written with depth and emotion, are completely lovable, and relatable. I was entertained throughout the entire book and the author’s writing kept me engaged, not wanting to put the book down.’
~ Sapphyria’s Books Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘This series has been very entertaining. Having Tuck as a ghost detective has been fun. There were so many twists and turns in the latter part of the book I thought I might get whiplash. There was one major twist where I just held my breath, wondering what the outcome would be.’
~ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘What do you get when you mix rural cops, college professors, assorted villains, heroic labrador retriever, and detective who is determined to solve his own murder? Answer: The Dead Detective Casefiles! As of the storyline progresses, O’Connor weaves seemingly disparate (and complex!) subplots into a seamless finale. An expertly crafted blend of history, mystery, and paranormal fiction.’
~ Dogs, Mysteries, & More Review of The Dead Detective Casefiles, Books 1-3
‘Tuck’s trademark wit makes me laugh in all these books. This book has alot going on with spies, murder, and thievery!’
~ Country Mamas With Kids Review of Dying To Tell
‘Dying to Tell by Tj O’Connor is by far the best read ever. Tuck and his wife, Angel, are the greatest couple. Murder, lies, betrayal, and love all neatly woven inside this adventure of a lifetime.’
~ The AR Critique Review of Dying To Tell
‘I read the first two books in the series and absolutely loved them. And now I’m thrilled to say I loved this one too. I loved these characters, seeing them grow together. When I reached the end, whether I was wrong or right about the guilty party didn’t matter. Kinda, LOL. I laughed a lot and had a blast.’
~ fuonlyknew Review of Dying To Tell
‘Dying to Tell added a unique spin to the typical detective fiction. A sprinkle of humor and paranormal was added to the mix of crime fiction/police procedural. A+ for creativity! A tale of revenge/avenging and relationships. Full of twists! Is ANYONE credible? A surprising but logical ending! don’t usually read paranormal books but this was entertaining!’
~ bookwormbecky1969 Review of Dying To Tell
‘Tuck is back and deader than ever.. oops better than ever. O’Connor does a fantastic job of drawing readers into the story, making them feel like they are part of the investigation alongside Tuck and his companions. The evolving relationship between Tuck and his wife adds an emotional layer to the plot, creating a bittersweet undertone to the novel. I have enjoyed each of these DEAD DETECTIVE CASEFILES books tremendously, O’Connor has crafted a thrilling and engaging mystery series that keeps readers guessing until the very end.’
~ Hott Books Review of Dying To Tell
‘Ghost detective Tuck is an engaging character. He can be ornery and sometimes has an odd sense of humor but he is dedicated to bringing villains to justice. I look forward to seeing what his next adventure will be.’
~ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader Review of Dying For The Past
‘I love this series with Detective Tuck… I can’t wait to read the next book in the series’
~ Country Mamas With Kids Review of Dying For The Past
‘Tj O’Connor brilliantly weaves humor, history, and fantasy into a memorizing read. Dying for the Past is the second memorable tale in this what I hope to be a very long series. A lot of laughs, fun, and excitement in this new release.’
~ The AR Critique Review of Dying For The Past
‘Russian spies. Mobsters from the 30’s. Dead guys, several of them. A mysterious book. And a trail that leads to Tuck’s own ancestors. Lots of shenanigans and mystery in this one. Tuck is a hoot. Angel is a sweetie and she’s got a lot of sass… I wanted to read the end, yet I didn’t want the story of Tuck and his gang to be over.’
~ fuonlyknew Review of Dying For The Past
‘This mash of undead and slightly dead characters, events from the past and the present merging, and the mob scene from 100 years ago converging on the mob scene today was a fun mystery to follow. I absolutely love Tuck! He’s a great character and a lot of fun to follow. enjoyed Dying to Know but I loved Dying For The Past. I couldn’t put it down. It felt so real, not like fiction at all, I couldn’t wait to know what happened next but still wanted to prolong the time I got to spend with the Tucker Gang.’
~ Hott Books Review of Dying For The Past
‘This is an interesting and unique mystery… There is a good deal of suspense… I am eager to read the next one.’
~ Book Reviews From an Avid Reader Review of Dying to Know
‘Oooo this book gave me chills… and tears… and kept me on the edge of my seat. All of those. This is not your typical mystery. This is not your typical ghost story. This is the best of both worlds!’
~ Wall-to-wall Books Review of Dying to Know
‘There are some deep secrets in this book and as you start reading it you want to read till the end and find out all of them. I found the author’s writing to be very interesting and engaging as a mystery and a thrilling read. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.’
~ Country Mamas With Kids Review of Dying to Know
‘Dying to Know is the welcome installment to the new addictive series all intrigue fans will love. In this first part, there is murder, mystery, and humor mixed in with the paranormal. t’s fun, memorable, and exciting. If you’re looking for a read that is deadly, puzzling, and entertaining read Dying To Know and the rest of the series by Tj O’Connor! He’s a brilliant new writer to me. I cannot wait to dive into the next grand adventure by him.’
~ The AR Critique Review of Dying to Know
‘Cozies are a favorite for me in the mystery genre. Fun titles and colorful covers. And those characters, often a bit quirky, who you feel you know. What’s even more fun is a paranormal cozy. And that’s what I got. A detective, Tuck, who wakes up dead, killed in his own home. There’s a serious mystery to solve. But there’s fun and plenty of humor too. A great start to a series I must continue reading.’
~ fuonlyknew Review of Dying to Know
‘What a book! I picked up DYING TO KNOW as an afternoon diversion and spent hours devouring, laughing, and crying. I loved the mystery. I adored the characters. DYING TO KNOW is my new favorite book!’
~ Hott Books Review of Dying to Know
‘This begins a paranormal mystery series that has a gritty police procedure vibe as well which I liked. I look forward to see Tuck solve other mysteries.’
~ rozierreadsandwine Review of Dying to Know
Tour Host Info:
Book Formats: ePub, Print
Hosting Options: Review, Interview, Guest Post, Showcase
Giveaway: There will be a tour-wide PICT Giveaway
More: According to the author The Dead Detective Casefiles do not include: Excessive Strong Language, Graphic Violence, Explicit Sexual Scenes, or Rape. However, readers may encounter content that is considered to be another trigger situation. Generally the content is considered to be: PG-13 content. At this time, PICT staff have not yet read this book and cannot give additional information.
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