The Zero Tolerance Game (Frank Boff) by Nathan Gottlieb

I have been following the Frank Boff series from the start, loving the unique PI and seeing the writer grow. So, a new one always goes on top of the review pile.
In this latest novel, Boff sees a car of a client explode very near him, prompting him to investigate. Also, an old friend who just came out of jail asks Boff to find the man who was really behind the killlings he was imprisoned for.
Supercool, alcoholic tough ex-cop Emily Lynch is asked to help him out and soon they are battling with wits and fists against snipers, mobsters and more.
As usual in the Boff stories the main plot is satisfying enough, but what makes it stand out is the funny banter between ultra-original PI Boff and the other characters. Add the incredible but vulnerable superwoman Lynch to the mix and it gets even better.
Another entertaining entry in this series with an action-packed ending that will remind you of Lee Child.

The Dread Line (Liam Mulligan) by Bruce DeSilva

Liam Mulligan started out as a fairly standard hardboiled reporter, but since last novel he's a PI AND a bookmaker. That earns the guy some extra cool points. Add the banter and pretty hardboiled attitude he and his pals share and this is one interesting book in the series. It takes the series in a new direction that makes sure Mulligan isn't just an imitation of those who came before but an unique character all his own.
There's a lot of cases he's taking on in this one too. There's a serial-killer cat, some creep torturing animals, and a background check on a football player.
Some moments are cute, like the scenes with his new dog. Some moments are harsh, like when he encounters the tortured animals or faces some scumballs with extreme prejudice. It's a mix that makes this novel a joy to read. It never gets too bleak or too Spenser-cute.