For me, there are two ways to approach a review of Bad News Travels. The first would to take it at face value, ignoring its flaws and simply deciding on its entertainment value. That gets me to 4 stars, but still leaves the very obnoxious and unlikable character Jon Lancaster, he of the keg belly.
The second approach is to dwell on the very annoying flaws in the novel. That starts too with Jon Lancaster. Can we not have an ex-cop investigator who respects the rule of law and the rights of individuals? Lancaster does so many illegal things, that along with his constant lying, makes him an unworthy lead character. Why is he allowed in on so many FBI actions? Why does he get to beat suspects, even with FBI agents watching? The author concedes at the 87% mark that Lancaster cannot go along on an FBI bust, it's against the rules to include a civilian. So why was he allowed to that point to join in on several busts? Why does he have to be so violent and deceitful? Why does the FBI agent Daniels have to lie so much?
The author also concedes that there can be conflicts of interest, and the conflicted character must withdraw. He points out that a pathologist should not autopsy people he knows. So why is Beth Daniels front and center in the investigation of her father's death? That's a huge conflict.
Finally, I hope that the author does not live in St. Augustine since he has totally trashed the integrity of their police department. Or maybe I hope that he does live there...
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of this novel. I have tried to provide an honest review considering all of the above.

another great book in the series. really enjoy watching the relationship between the MC grow and evolve. the story lines are believable, especially in today technology base environment. you can't help but root for jon lancaster.

As a talented and prolific author, Swain books are a pretty safe bet for mysteries. This one is quite good too. I liked these characters and the fun plot. Recommended.

I really appreciate the ARC for review!!

Oh, this right here was such a thrill! Lancaster and Daniels are the duo I never knew I needed in a murder investigation ad throw in Daniel's niece, Nicki, who knows a thing or two about investigations and this had me turning the pages.
I saw it was the third book in the series and couldn't help but wish I'd read the first two, also I can't wait to read the next book.
Thanks Netgalley for the eARC.

This is the third book in the Lancaster and Daniels books. This new series is particularly good. Thank you, Net Galley, for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Jon Lancaster is with Beth Daniels as she buries her father who committed suicide. Everything is suspicious. They investigate and uncover dirty dealings.
Jon is particularly qualified to help investigate, a former seal, retired police detective who has a wide network to help him.
I love the story unfolds and we have the different point of views of both Jon Lancaster and Beth Daniels. The writing flows and is a good read
I have read all of James Swain’s books. Enjoyed his Jack Carpenter and Valentine series.

I read a lot. I love finding new series and of all the one's that I've found, I think this is my favorite.

This book #3 in the series starts with the death of Beth Daniels father. It is officially listed as a suicide but Beth thinks the St. Augustine police are lying. This police force has had it's issues in the past so her fears are not unfounded. When Jon and Beth arrive at the funeral, Jon sees a car with occupants parked across the street from the church. It doesn't fit. Jon approaches the car and finds 2 Russian gangsters. He's familiar with the Russians that have made Florida, mostly Fort Lauderdale their home.

After the funeral, Beth and her sister Melanie find anomalies in their father's financial records. Jon finds a hidden safe containing a lap top. While Jon and Beth are out digging around, her father's home is invaded by armed thugs. Melanie and her family hide in the panic room which leads to the question, why does her father need a panic room? The story proceeds from there.

What I love most about this series is Jon. He's one of the most interesting characters that I've run across in recent years. And I love the descriptive way that the author describes Florida.

FBI agent Beth Daniela and her boyfriend, former cop and ex-Seal Jon Lancaster, retire in their third adventure, which begins at the funeral of Beth's father, whose suicide shocked his friends and family. But something about the circumstances triggers their suspicions. and when the chief of police lies to them and attempts to stonewall their investigation, the game's afoot. It leads to sex trafficking, blackmail, Russian monsters, mayhem and murder. A mostly predictable plot, short on suspense but nicely posed against the picturesque charm of St. Augustine

Mystery mixed with familiar, likable characters is the perfect mix for a great story. The author does it again in an enjoyable story.

Just in time for summer, Jon Lancaster and Beth Daniels return. This series is a fun romp that pairs the by-the-book FBI agent Beth with the loose cannon former SEAL Jon, and is a pleasant way to pass the time.