The Death Merchant

Diagnosis Murder #2

by Lee Goldberg

A dream vacation in Hawaii turns into a nightmare for Dr. Mark Sloan and his son, Steve, when a man they've befriended falls victim to a shark attack. But when Mark discovers evidence indicating the victim was murdered prior to becoming shark food, he and Steve comb the beaches to find a different kind of predator...

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Crime

256 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

Lee Goldberg is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of over forty novels, including Malibu Burning, Calico, Lost Hills (the first novel in his acclaimed "Eve Ronin" series), 15 "Monk" mysteries, five "Fox & O'Hare" adventures (co-written with Janet Evanovich), and the new thriller Ashes Never Lie, the second in his "Sharpe & Walker" series.. He's written and/or produced many TV shows, including Diagnosis Murder, SeaQuest, and Monk and he co-created the Hallmark movie series Mystery 101.

Reviews

[Jonathan Waugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like with the first book in the series, this feels like reading an episode of the TV series.

[Richard Schwindt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colour me surprised but I didn't expect this.
On my way to a week in Punta Cana, I searched out an array of books that would be light as light can be. I vaguely recollected watching Diagnosis Murder a few times so picked this up at a discount store, expecting little. And maybe because it begins by sending Doctor Mark Sloan to a beach in Hawaii.
The Death Merchant is a tight, dark, and well-written thriller; featuring a complex antagonist and a brilliant relentless doctor hunting him down. The story begins with an exceptionally disturbing murder and move from there on down the rabbit hole.
Writer and screenwriter Lee Goldberg deserves full credit for penning this credible thriller. His sense of character and pacing make for a "can't put down" experience. While the book includes an array of minor characters; in the end only Sloan and the killer matter. It ranks with some of the best.
Highly recommended with rum punch on the beach.

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first Diagnosis Murder book although I have recently been rewatching the series. I have to say I really enjoyed this book. The mystery was well done, and I loved getting to read Mark's pov as he tries to stay one step ahead of the killer. Plus, all of my faves from the show make an appearance. I will definitely read more.

[Sarah Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I watched Diagnosis Murder growing up, and this book was just as good! I could visualize all the main characters in my head and hear their voices while reading, which is especially fun when it’s Dick Van Dyke and his son Barry. Super fun/interesting mystery as well, 5 stars all the way! I’ll be trying to find more of these gems!

[Kerry Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the series and even on holiday Mark just can't seem to take a break and soon gets himself involved in a murder
I love the TV series and love these books too. A nice light mystery read. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon and any fan of the show.

[Clare · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nice diversion, okay mystery

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book to pass the time. Not really much of a mystery more of a light thriller.

[Loriann Melby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this mystery.

[Sue · Rating 3 out of 5]

Diagnosis Murder #2 The Death Merchant by Lee Goldberg.

I just finished reading the first book in the series, The Silent Partner. In Diagnosis Murder # 2, a dream vacation in Hawaii turns into a nightmare for Dr. Mark Sloan and his son, Steve, when a man they've befriended falls victim to a shark attack. But when Mark discovers evidence indicating the victim was murdered prior to becoming shark food, he and Steve have their hands full.

Five years ago, four of Roger Standiford's employees kidnapped his daughter, Connie, and buried her alive,thinking that she would be okay until her dad paid the ransom and was told where to find his daughter.But her dad got there too late and she was dead.Roger Standiford was approached by a hitman to get the job done. Now Dr. Mark Sloane and his son Steve try to solve the puzzle.

I enjoyed reading this book.

[Mark Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Steve and Mark vacation in Hawaii, Mark meets a local who is then killed by a shark. Except Mark doesn't think it was a real shark attack when he gets a good look at the body. Can they stop the killer from striking again? The plot is brilliant and the characters are spot on. My only complaint is that Amanda and Jesse become minor characters.

Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I miss this show. I really do. I realize that I’m not in the expected demographic for Diagnosis Murder viewers, but they’re always such good mysteries. And who doesn’t love Dick Van Dyke?

This particular mystery takes us to Hawaii, where Dr. Sloan is supposed to be on vacation. But he can’t take a vacation, he continues to work and solve mysteries. I like the new locale and the opportunity for bickering between Steve and Mark. Unlike Mark, Steve wanted to relax on his vacation - not work. The mystery didn’t disappoint and I’m glad I can still experience the series through new (to me) books!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so much more promising than the Silent Partner. Lee Goldberg really showed his skills and talent in this book! I love his books, I am moving on to the 3rd book and I am very excited! the death merchant is a page turner from page 1! I highly recommend this book for all mystery book lovers!

[Teddybear88]

It kept me up and wanting the murderer to come clean.

[Chowhound88 (a.k.a. Ralph) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great book by Mr. Goldberg! Well done!

[Denée · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as good as the first book. It didn't draw me in.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed it immensely.

[Marisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★☆