Head Cases
by John McMahon
Narrated by Will Damron
"Head Cases follows an enigmatic group of FBI agents as they hunt down a murderer seeking his own justice in this electrifying—and commercial—series debut. FBI Agent Gardner Camden is an analytical genius with an affinity for puzzles. He also has a blind spot on the human side of investigations, a blindness that sometimes even includes people in his own life, like his beloved seven-year-old daughter Camila. Gardner and his squad of brilliant yet quirky agents make up the Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit, the FBI’s hidden edge, brought in for cases that no one else can solve. When DNA links a murder victim to a serial killer long presumed dead, the team springs into action. A second victim establishes a pattern, and the murderer begins leaving a trail of clues and riddles especially for Gardner. And while the PAR team is usually relegated to working cold cases from behind a desk, the investigation puts them on the road and into the public eye, following in the footsteps of a killer."
As always, my reviews are of the audio version of this book. As a rule, I listen at 70% speed or less as this makes it easier to hear details without needing to rewind as often. If things get tedious, I generally speed up.
Present in all of my reviews will be notes marked by an asterisk. These are pretty much just random thoughts I have, ignore them if they are annoying. I tend to think out loud...or in writing.
**New (to me) author alert!** This means I'mma be a little skeptical from the get go...
Well, right off I had a concern. One of the first sentences was "why kill someone who was already presumed dead?" I found this inane. Well, duh, bc they aren't IN FACT dead??? This gave me a bad feeling about the rest of the book.
BUT WAIT! All is not lost!
Let's get on with the REST of the story...
Firstly, our protagonist, Gardner Camden (gotta say, never have I encountered this first name), is perhaps meant to be ... on the spectrum? At the beginning, this is not made clear.
Maybe that is how the self absorption in the first few chapters is explained.
Camden is an agent in an FBI unit called PAR, made up of some very intriguing characters.
*Note: Needs a bit of editing.
Ex "each letter in perfectly formed letters". An awkward way to say "each letter perfectly formed".
*Note: there, once again, is a horrible southern US accent. Pet peeve. Not too irritating as it is not used often.
Just a warning:
Major ICK factor beginning in CH 7.
It doesn't seem to be ENTIRELY for shock value, but imo, the dog (NOT a spoiler) could have been left out as the detail added nothing at all to the plot and I prefer animals in books be enjoyable.
**NOTE: the dog DOES NOT DIE nor is it harmed in any way! This would've been an automatic deal breaker for me!
*Note: Is anyone else annoyed that people on cell phones are always hearing dial tones in books and shows?
Happily, the story became much more interesting after about 25-30%. Before this, there was a noticeable drag.
Camden is definitely meant to be ots (what I'm not supposed to call Asperger's anymore). Now that I consider it, I don't think he is ever referred to as anything but "different". I presume this is the author's way of avoiding labels, however, as I have a son who is ots as well, calling a child "different" is NOT good when most children don't desire standing out from their peers, especially in early childhood. We found that explaining his diagnosis helped the other kids understand a bit better; calling him "different" only caused his classmates to ask and speculate HOW he was different, often erroneously. My son's mentality is also somewhat similar to Camden's, so I found this interesting and his behavior pretty accurate, thankfully. There were few, if any, stereotypes involved.
One slightly annoying aspect (one of few) is that toward the end, there's some very looooong stretching to put the most obscure clues together. Some of it is sort of ridiculous.
As often happens, I'm a bit disappointed with the drop in common sense Camden exercises in the last several chapters, but you can't have it all. I feel like some of the drama at the end is word carbs.
Overall, I enjoyed it way more than I thought I would from the iffy beginning and I am definitely interested to see if there is another book coming. The ending is open to a continuance of the group's adventures.
I love being proved wrong!

I requested this book after reading an excerpt of it a little bit ago. There is always a special section of the FBI that does what no other department can do. Do you think they all feel like that? I bet they do. I can't imagine being in that one FBI office that just KNEW you were the worst of the best. You were the ones that didn't quite rise to expectations. The ones that the other agents felt bad for. It seems like there isn't much reason for you to be "special" but you were already there and you had your clearance and badge, so....

But this isn't that group. This is the one that is good at their job. This is the one with the odd and brilliant member that holds them all together. And it was a good story. Lot's of action. No easy answers or completely out there twist endings. This is just my way of saying that this was familiar in that way that basically all books about elite groups in already elite crime fighting agencies. I feel like it is just short of making itself distinct. Most first book in a series are. They want to feel familiar. Then you see the distinctions. I will read the second book that is sure to come. There is the hint of relationships in need of being explored and backstories to learn.

Head Cases was engaging from the very beginning!! The audiobook was well paced and the narration was great, hooking me from start to finish. This book is perfect for those that enjoy shows like Criminal Minds or Law & Order. The story follows a team of FBI agents, in the midst of their search for a serial killer that kills serial killers. As each victim falls prey to the antagonist in this story, these agents try to profile their killer before he can strike again. Meanwhile, the killer is playing a cat & mouse game by calling the agents, taunting them as he is confident he will never be caught. Perfect for fans of crime fiction and I plan on exploring more titles by this author.

Thank you Macmillan Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

John McMahon has created a thriller peppered with puzzles that will keep your mind searching for the next clue and action that keeps the reader ready for more. Patterns and Recognition Unit is an FBI unit normally assigned to cold cases. Camden Gardner is a genius who solves puzzles. His eidetic memory helps him catch the killers, but he lacks social skills. He and a group of uniquely talented agents are assigned to a new case when a serial killer who supposedly died in a fire seven years ago, has just been murdered. The plot is full of twists and the characters are interesting, making for a compelling story. I can't wait to read the planned sequel.

I alternated between the ebook and the audiobook and I enjoyed the narration by Will Damron immensely. His acting was versatile and the voices were varied enough to differentiate between the characters. He softened his voice for the female characters without going into an unnatural falsetto that could be distracting or annoying. I will definately be on the lookout for other audiobooks with this talented actor. I received access to both the ebook and the audiobook from the publisher, but this review is voluntary. I can honestly say that no matter which format you prefer, this is a new series to watch out for.

My husband recently asked me if we could read the same book and discuss it... hard to keep the romance alive with 3 kids during cold and flu season. I obviously said yes! He is not as big of a reader as I am, so I wanted to find something that I knew he would like - and this sounded like it would be a good fit! I have to say, I was so pleasantly surprised by this book. I had an audio of this from Netgalley and I flew through it. I often find FBI thrillers to be predictable and so unrealistic. This one moved quickly, the storyline was addicting and the characters were all really well developed. I was on my toes from page one, the twists and turns were great and it was very action packed. Anyone interested in serial killers, FBI, and a serial killer seeking revenge on other killers.

Thank you Netgalley for my advanced reader copy.

Head Cases by John McMahon is a captivating and fast-paced debut that introduces readers to an exceptional FBI unit tasked with solving the unsolvable. The story follows Gardner Camden, a brilliant yet socially awkward agent in the Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit, a team of FBI specialists who tackle the most perplexing cold cases. When DNA links a recent murder to a long-dead serial killer, Camden and his team are thrust into a high-stakes investigation that quickly spirals into a deadly game of cat and mouse.

What sets Head Cases apart is its unique cast of characters, each with their own set of quirks and specialties. From a mathematician to a weapons expert, the diverse team works in tandem, using their collective expertise to crack the case, while Gardner’s personal blind spots add an intriguing layer of complexity to the investigation. The killer, however, is always one step ahead, leaving behind a trail of puzzles designed specifically for Gardner. As the investigation unfolds, the tension rises, and it becomes clear that the team is not just hunting down a murderer—they are also racing against time to protect their own families from the killer’s growing obsession with them.

With its sharp writing, intricate plot, and engaging ensemble cast, Head Cases keeps the reader hooked from start to finish. McMahon masterfully balances thrilling action with psychological depth, offering a story that’s as intellectually stimulating as it is suspenseful. For fans of twisty crime thrillers with a touch of genius, Head Cases is a must-read.

Head Cases feels like a perfect blend of some of the best crime and procedural TV shows. It reminded me of Scorpion, with its team of uniquely skilled misfits trying to keep their funding and avoid getting shut down. It also had the charm and wit of The Mentalist, particularly with the budding romance subplot that gave me early Jane and Lisbon vibes. And, of course, there’s a Criminal Minds feel, with a specialized team solving complex cases while navigating their own interpersonal dynamics.

This book does a great job of balancing character development with the procedural elements. We’re introduced to a team where each person has their own distinct personality, and we get just enough backstory to keep us intrigued without being overwhelmed. For readers who love longer detective series, this sets up a promising foundation. I also liked how the book immediately shows the dangers of the job and how they impact the characters' personal lives. It gives the story an emotional depth and foreshadows the kind of long-term stakes we’ll likely see in future installments. I already get the feeling that one day, a past case will come back to haunt them, which is always a great setup for a crime series.

Overall, this was a solid, engaging read. It wasn’t mind-blowing, but it felt like watching a two-hour special of my favorite crime, cat-and-mouse serial killer shows. Thanks to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for this ALC—the narration was fantastic! The narrator did an amazing job giving each character a distinct voice, which made the story even more immersive. If this does turn into a series, I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on it.

FBI Agent Gardner Camden along with a group of quirky and sometimes outcast agent make up the Patterns and Recognition (PAR) unit. When a serial killer, long thought to already be dead, is found dead quickly followed by another serial killer, Agent Camden and PAR are brought in to try and solve the crime. After quickly finding a few clues that were left, Camden and his fellow agents race to beat the clock and the possible closure of their unit, while Camden also needs to make sure his family is kept safe. Head Cases was a heart pounding, crime focused thriller with excellent, fully fleshed out characters. Hoping Gardner and PAR will be returning for many more books to come!

I’m so upset with myself for putting this book off for so long. This was seriously so good. This is for the lovers of police procedurals and criminal minds. I felt like I was reading a book of criminal minds. The narrator did an amazing job. He had a great voice and I could tell which character was which based on how he was speaking. I need the second book immediately!!

This has nothing to do with the author, and everything to do with me. I did not feel connected to the characters or storyline. I did think some of the characters resembled some from Criminal Minds, though. I DNF’d the book mid-way.

This book sadly was not for me, but I’m many others would enjoy.

Thank you so much to publisher and author for allowing me to get an early copy of this.

*4.5 Stars On My Instagram Account*

"A serial killer was murdering serial killers."

There are many intricate moving parts to this well crafted FBI procedural audiobook expertly written by brilliant author John McMahon and perfectly performed by premier voice actor Will Damron. It's unusual when listening to a murder mystery, about a serial killer murdering serial killers, using their own methods to kill them, that I'm left with a smile at the end.

FBI Agent Gardner Camden is a crime solving analytic genius. He sees pieces coming together at a crime scene when others see a bloody gruesome death. He and his team of quirky experts, from a math prodigy to a sharp shooter, make up the secret PAR Unit (Patterns and Recognition Unit) that are called in when cases have no hope of being solved by anyone else.

When DNA at a brutal murder reveals the victim is a serial killer, who was thought to already be dead, and who Gardner has history with, his team is called in. Soon there's another murder and PAR quickly puzzles out the pattern.

What makes this more than just a procedural is the complexity of Gardner's life. As smart as he is, his mind just doesn't understand social cues, he doesn't grasp subtitles; except when protecting his adorable 7 year old daughter and his Mom, who is recognizing him less each day. He even makes sure his ex-wife, in jail for embezzling--yes he sent her there--is safe when the killer comes for his family.

The FBI wants to disband his unit, derogatorily nicknamed The Head Cases Unit, since each of them had run-ins with authority. Suspense, twists, heartfelt moments, and a bit of romance make it a no brainer that this series debut is a winner.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from Macmillan Audio via #NetGalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to @macmillanaudio for the ALC! Unfortunately this book wasn’t for me. I felt that taking over halfway to truly kick off the mystery and up the stakes caused the book to drag some. I found myself unengaged and at times bored. I couldn’t connect with the main character or the procedural bits. Not even the family aspect kept me engaged. Ultimately this was disappointing as I highly anticipated this book. This was not for me.

Head Cases was such a gripping audiobook! I was hesitant with another FBI/agent narrator since I feel like it's been done over and over again, but this story was unique and interesting as we follow agent Gardner Camden with the PAR Unit of the FBI. As the first book in what seems to be a new series, Gardner leads a case in which a serial killer seems to be murdering serial killers in an act of vigilante justice. With a squad consisting of "misfit" agents, McMahon takes readers on a cross-country journey trying to track a mystery killer in a cat and mouse game of revenge. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series and would recommend this audiobook to anyone who likes detective narrated stories, psychological thrillers, and quick witted/quick-paced plot lines.

I love a good thriller, a good serial killer story, and a good look at the pscychology behind crimes--"Head Cases" has all of that. It's the story of an elite FBI unit--the Patterns and Recognition Unit--that looks into cases that seem too difficult to solve like the current murder cases that seem to be connected but no one can quite figure out the patterns.

It was a good thriller with likeable characters, though I would have wanted a little bit more insight into the characters as it was a little difficult to identify with them and keep track (that could also be because I listened to it and may have been distracted). As this is the first in a series, I do also expect more character development over the next few books.

Overall an enjoyable audiobook with room to grow in the series.

Book: Head Cases
Author: John McMahon
Format: Audiobook
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Review Score: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 (rounded up)

This was so interesting! I loved the PAR unit, their intricate thought process, and seeing how they solve cases. I used to watch Criminal Minds a lot, and this was reminiscent of that show. This is the first book in what will be a series of the PAR team, and I can’t wait for future books.

Will Damron, the narrator of the audiobook, did a great job. He made me like Agent Gardner so much more. I actually really liked every agent on the PAR team, and I hope the rest of the series features each agent in a more pronounced role.

I loved the quirks, the mysterious reasons for each member being on the team, the characters themselves, how they solved this case, the neurodivergent representation, the unconventional pieces….so much.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur for the ARC and Macmillan Audio for the ALC!

This novel follows FBI agent Gardner Camden as he and his team attempt to track down a killer, discovering he’s taken a Robin Hood mindset to justify becoming a serial killer of other killers or bad people. The killer plays a game of cat and mouse with Camden, making the case more personal and the stakes higher.

The high stakes of this case create lots of action packed, tension filled moments. The plot is well developed and builds off of good characterization and relationships to make you feel more invested in what happens next. This case gave me vibes of Psych’s Yin and Yang episodes!

This is a quick listen if you love cold case, serial killers, cat and mouse dynamic, or action packed plots!

This book is amazing!! It reminded me of Criminals Minds and the BAU. I cannot wait for another.

Thank you Net Galley for the ARC.

Head Cases is a thrilling and engaging audiobook that kept me hooked from start to finish. The concept of the PAR unit and their unique approach to solving cases was fascinating, and I enjoyed following along as they pieced together the clues left by the killer. The character development was well-done, and I found myself rooting for Gardner and his team throughout the story.

While I did struggle with the narrator at times and found some parts of the story to be a bit confusing, overall Head Cases is a well-crafted mystery with plenty of twists and turns to keep listeners guessing. The tension builds steadily throughout the book, leading to a satisfying conclusion that left me eager for more.

I would recommend Head Cases to fans of crime thrillers and intricate puzzle-solving plots. John McMahon has created a compelling world with interesting characters that I hope to see more of in future installments. Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to listen to and review this gripping audiobook. 4 stars!

I'm always happy to find a new a mystery/thriller series to dive into, especially when there's a serial killer aspect to it. So listening to this one made me very happy - I just wish there weren't a wait for the next one.
While it feels like a bit of a mashup of some of my other favorites, it's actually its own unique thing - the story of a newish FBI Unit (PAR: Patterns And Recognition) which was formed of experts in their field, each of whom has also previously screwed up on the job somehow and been banished to the Jacksonville FL office as an experimental team (think the Island of Misfit Agents) and their future as a unit is uncertain. Then along comes a new case: someone is killing serial killers. And while it mostly feels like good riddance to bad rubbish, it still needs to be investigated, and the first victim discovered has ties to one of the members of the team, Gardner Camden. Camden is a socially awkward agent with a photographic memory and a strong moral code that's led to issues in both his work life and his personal life. Because of his ties to this case, he's tagged to be lead investigator.
I enjoyed all of this - I liked the quirky members of the team, I liked the pacing, I liked the writing - very atmospheric in a variety of settings. I can highly recommend the audiobook, which was wonderfully narrated by Will Damron. And I'll be trying John McMahon's previous books while I wait for the next book in this series.
Thanks to Netgalley, St. Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for providing copies for an unbiased review.

At the start, I felt like I could really get into this book. It felt like any crime drama with a quirky, smart lead detective. We have a special team in the FBI that will take on cold cases because they view things just a bit differently than other agents. Enough that they might be able to catch onto a missed pattern or something subtle that could easily be overlooked. Intriguing, right?
But then I just got bored. I was listening to the audiobok and I found myself losing interest and not really paying attention to what was happening anymore. I wasn't invested in any of the characters and I had a really hard time trying to keep names straight. Even by the end, I wasn't just who was who. I even mistook his partner for his daughter. Yikes.
This is the start of a series. And by the way that it ended, I questioned how I felt about reading on to the next book. Something about how the setup for continuation had my interest peaked and maybe, must maybe, it could redeem itself for book 2.