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Colton Banyon Mysteries #5
A Dubious Plan
In the fifth Colton Banyon mystery, Banyon and his sidekick, Loni are called to Death Valley just as they are about to attend a wedding in Las Vegas. The wedding is very significant as one of the Patel sisters is marrying Eric, Wolf’s long lost grandson. Loni is determined to make it happen as it will end the curse that sexually attracts the Patel sisters to her man. However, an old German war plane has been found in the sand dunes of Death Valley and contains many mysteries. They drive out to inspect the discovery as Banyon believes that the find is very important. As they attempt to unravel the mysteries, they discover a plan that goes back to the end of World War II and could affect modern day America. Soon they find someone who was on the plane and possesses a map to a hidden cave. But an old Nazi knows about the cave and a war develops in the barren desert. Banyon calls in his team and finds out that they are on their own as the old Nazi attacks. The Nazi is after something, but what? Banyon and his entire team face immense peril. And then bad things start to happen.
299 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2012
About the author
Gerald J. Kubicki
32 books342 followersI was born and raised on Eastern Long Island in the Westhampton area. My youth was full of adventures since we had miles of woods surrounding my home and we were near the ocean.
I attended college at Suny Plattsburgh on an academic scholarship and I am a proud member of Theta Kappa Beta fraternity. I earned a degree in Asian history. My mother told people that I was an educated bum.
I spent my working career in consumer products industry and traveled the world. Most of the locations in my books are places I have visited. This has given me great background for my writings.
My hobbies include: writing, reading, golf, cooking and even a little gambling as I live in Las Vegas.
My basis philosophy is: History repeats itself and you will find that theme in all my books.
I attended college at Suny Plattsburgh on an academic scholarship and I am a proud member of Theta Kappa Beta fraternity. I earned a degree in Asian history. My mother told people that I was an educated bum.
I spent my working career in consumer products industry and traveled the world. Most of the locations in my books are places I have visited. This has given me great background for my writings.
My hobbies include: writing, reading, golf, cooking and even a little gambling as I live in Las Vegas.
My basis philosophy is: History repeats itself and you will find that theme in all my books.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 7, 2018
Book #5, in the Colton Banyon Mysteries
If you want an amusing and a fun read you will be well served with this series. No problem to start at any point, each book has a unique drama and just enough background on the characters to situate us so that we can enjoy the moment without being overloaded with pass information.
In, ”A Dubious Plan”, Colton and his sidekick Loni are called to Death Valley to attend a wedding. But when a WW11 German plane is found in the sand dunes things changes….fast.
Don’t take this story seriously it is pure escapism from reality and very entertaining. The tempo is steady and holds its own all through, actually it never let go. The characters are a bit shallow, especially the female roles. I been stating this for a good part of the series, sexuality and the women insecurities and appearances are too often repeated…Naked brainless women catering to sex starved men is rather annoying (no explicit sexual scenes )…... Passing beyond the sexual innuendos and the frivolities the plot is an intriguing adventure. Most of Mr. Kubicki’s stories have a bit of mysticism and cynical humour mixed with a little bit of history…The author’s notes at the end of the book tells us what triggered his inspiration to write this story.
This book may be the latest I have read but actually I have read all of the books written to date by the Kubickis.
If you want an amusing and a fun read you will be well served with this series. No problem to start at any point, each book has a unique drama and just enough background on the characters to situate us so that we can enjoy the moment without being overloaded with pass information.
In, ”A Dubious Plan”, Colton and his sidekick Loni are called to Death Valley to attend a wedding. But when a WW11 German plane is found in the sand dunes things changes….fast.
Don’t take this story seriously it is pure escapism from reality and very entertaining. The tempo is steady and holds its own all through, actually it never let go. The characters are a bit shallow, especially the female roles. I been stating this for a good part of the series, sexuality and the women insecurities and appearances are too often repeated…Naked brainless women catering to sex starved men is rather annoying (no explicit sexual scenes )…... Passing beyond the sexual innuendos and the frivolities the plot is an intriguing adventure. Most of Mr. Kubicki’s stories have a bit of mysticism and cynical humour mixed with a little bit of history…The author’s notes at the end of the book tells us what triggered his inspiration to write this story.
This book may be the latest I have read but actually I have read all of the books written to date by the Kubickis.
November 27, 2012
In much of the noir mystery tradition, A Dubious Plan takes on the shape of the genre type but fills out with more humor than grit, making it amusing and easy to read. And although it is part of a series, it actually can stand on its own without the reader being lost with past references and future developments of the main characters, Colton and Loni. The rhythm of story-telling is paced well like a stack of dominoes: each scene beginning on its own merits but positioned neatly back-to-back with the progression of the plot. It is purely an escape from reality, thereby preserving the entertaining element of a quick, fun read.
There are two complaints I do have about it, however. First, and although I do understand the novel’s intent of a male audience and have no objection to the sexuality implied, the female characters come off as a bit flaky. I do like the attempt of exploring the relationship between Loni and her “niece” Cindy, but their incisive insecurities about their appearances and their sexuality only reveals one side of a person. And for Loni’s constant need for a Colton’s approval somewhat devalues her as a strong counterpart. I found Petra, the Nazi gal, to be more interesting because she played against the female stereotype. The other complaint is minor: after the usage of the dialogue, there is a lot of short and awkward passages to describe the tone and physical reactions of the characters. Sometimes it was a bit distracting.
All in all, it still was an entertaining read. As the plot thickened beyond the sexual antics, the story and characters become more intriguing. And by relating a little WWII history enriched the story- and I learned a little something that I didn’t know. You’ll have to read it to know that, too. The author’s notes and acknowledgements at the end of the book greatly enhanced the appreciation of what inspired the author to write this particular piece.
There are two complaints I do have about it, however. First, and although I do understand the novel’s intent of a male audience and have no objection to the sexuality implied, the female characters come off as a bit flaky. I do like the attempt of exploring the relationship between Loni and her “niece” Cindy, but their incisive insecurities about their appearances and their sexuality only reveals one side of a person. And for Loni’s constant need for a Colton’s approval somewhat devalues her as a strong counterpart. I found Petra, the Nazi gal, to be more interesting because she played against the female stereotype. The other complaint is minor: after the usage of the dialogue, there is a lot of short and awkward passages to describe the tone and physical reactions of the characters. Sometimes it was a bit distracting.
All in all, it still was an entertaining read. As the plot thickened beyond the sexual antics, the story and characters become more intriguing. And by relating a little WWII history enriched the story- and I learned a little something that I didn’t know. You’ll have to read it to know that, too. The author’s notes and acknowledgements at the end of the book greatly enhanced the appreciation of what inspired the author to write this particular piece.
October 6, 2012
There's a pretty good story here, an old Nazi plane found buried in a dune in Death valley, a cave full of devices and riches from WWII, a Nazi organization infiltrated all through American government.
A DUBIOUS PLAN is the fifth book in the Colton Banyon. He apparently hunts Nazis. Not having read the other four in the series, I assume that's so. One of the problems I have with this book is that, coming into it cold, it's hard to grasp some things. Most series books are designed to be read as a solo entry, usually enough info is worked into it about past books. Not so here.
We have a ghost that talks to Banyon. Except he can't talk to him directly anymore. He told Banyon about the future and can't talk to him anymore. he talks to others and the info is passed to him.
Other problems were the book needed another edit. Words were missing and some wrong words were used. I've never heard a horse whining. I have heard them whinnying occasionally though. Banyon is Banyon about half the time, Ban-yon the other half.
My biggest problem though was virtually every character's preoccupation with sex. I see nothing wrong with sex in a story. But they indulged at inappropriate times. While a horde of Mafia shooters were headed their way, two characters decide to go off and have sex. Three sisters, natives of India, have a curse placed on them by their father that seems to make them eternally horny, a curse that can only be broken when one marries. Maybe that's the point of this series. Not having read the first four, I can't be sure.
Great story not executed very well.
A DUBIOUS PLAN is the fifth book in the Colton Banyon. He apparently hunts Nazis. Not having read the other four in the series, I assume that's so. One of the problems I have with this book is that, coming into it cold, it's hard to grasp some things. Most series books are designed to be read as a solo entry, usually enough info is worked into it about past books. Not so here.
We have a ghost that talks to Banyon. Except he can't talk to him directly anymore. He told Banyon about the future and can't talk to him anymore. he talks to others and the info is passed to him.
Other problems were the book needed another edit. Words were missing and some wrong words were used. I've never heard a horse whining. I have heard them whinnying occasionally though. Banyon is Banyon about half the time, Ban-yon the other half.
My biggest problem though was virtually every character's preoccupation with sex. I see nothing wrong with sex in a story. But they indulged at inappropriate times. While a horde of Mafia shooters were headed their way, two characters decide to go off and have sex. Three sisters, natives of India, have a curse placed on them by their father that seems to make them eternally horny, a curse that can only be broken when one marries. Maybe that's the point of this series. Not having read the first four, I can't be sure.
Great story not executed very well.
July 6, 2012
What if America was the real target of the Third Reich? Colton Banyon and his team unwittingly uncover a clue to their dastardly plan. It leads to high adventure in the desert of Death Valley where they face death.
October 18, 2012
Found this to be an exciting action adventure with enough history and humor for an enjoyable read. Have recommended to friends looking for a quick readable story. Author knows how to draw you into story even if you have not read previous books in series however if just starting suggest you would be well served starting with first book.
April 6, 2013
A Dubious Plan - Supernatural Nazi Hunting Mystery!
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Gerald Kubicki
Format: Kindle, Paperback
Off for a weekend of fun, four friends find something they never expected during an intimate tryst in Death Valley National Park - the tail of old World War II plane buried under years of blowing sand. Hoping to claim a reward, the friends soon find themselves in mortal danger as this is no ordinary plane. Rather, it is the pivotal piece of one man's dream to bring the Nazi movement to America and while he may be long gone, his followers aren't. This plane and the technology it could lead to could mean a change in world power, and Colton Banyon along with his partner Loni and their colleagues must find this power long before modern day Nazi's do.
A Dubious Plan, by Gerald Kubicki, is the fifth in a series of books featuring Colton Banyon. I have not read the previous installments and while there are references made to previous characters and events, readers won't miss a beat if this is their first Colton mystery. The plot clearly drives the story - a Nazi escapes with secret "wonder" technology at the end of the war to secretly setup up a new "beach head" in America but then both he and the plane are lost for years - I was immediately engaged. The novel has the feel of a popcorn movie as the characterization is secondary and most of the women are, for me, a little too flighty but the action keeps things moving.
Overall, a fun beach or vacation read and if you like it, there are plenty more in the series.
Note: A complimentary copy of this novel was provided in return for a review.
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Gerald Kubicki
Format: Kindle, Paperback
Off for a weekend of fun, four friends find something they never expected during an intimate tryst in Death Valley National Park - the tail of old World War II plane buried under years of blowing sand. Hoping to claim a reward, the friends soon find themselves in mortal danger as this is no ordinary plane. Rather, it is the pivotal piece of one man's dream to bring the Nazi movement to America and while he may be long gone, his followers aren't. This plane and the technology it could lead to could mean a change in world power, and Colton Banyon along with his partner Loni and their colleagues must find this power long before modern day Nazi's do.
A Dubious Plan, by Gerald Kubicki, is the fifth in a series of books featuring Colton Banyon. I have not read the previous installments and while there are references made to previous characters and events, readers won't miss a beat if this is their first Colton mystery. The plot clearly drives the story - a Nazi escapes with secret "wonder" technology at the end of the war to secretly setup up a new "beach head" in America but then both he and the plane are lost for years - I was immediately engaged. The novel has the feel of a popcorn movie as the characterization is secondary and most of the women are, for me, a little too flighty but the action keeps things moving.
Overall, a fun beach or vacation read and if you like it, there are plenty more in the series.
Note: A complimentary copy of this novel was provided in return for a review.
October 29, 2014
[ I received this book free from the author in hopes of a review prior to release . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising"]
This is the fifth book in the Colton Banyon series of mysteries. In this one, as in others, Banyon, Loni, the sisters, Wolf and the usual cast of FBI and Homeland Security join forces with Petra Hammler and her daughter to see how a plane buried nearly 70 years ago in Death Valley California is connected with the Nazis and its current incarnation, The Effort.
And.....the good guys win, and the bad guys lose as Banyon et.al realise the "Dubious Plan" of the WW2 German war machine isn't as bad as it could be, and their absolute plan of corruption gets foiled again
I love these books! They are adventures reminscent of serials like The Lone Ranger starring the Keystone Cops. Kublibki's writing style is that of a fan of this genre who has heavily researched foundations in the history of the time, added to a bit if mysticism and a whole lot of cynical humor. These Colton Banyon novels are very addicting. Try them and see for yourself
This is the fifth book in the Colton Banyon series of mysteries. In this one, as in others, Banyon, Loni, the sisters, Wolf and the usual cast of FBI and Homeland Security join forces with Petra Hammler and her daughter to see how a plane buried nearly 70 years ago in Death Valley California is connected with the Nazis and its current incarnation, The Effort.
And.....the good guys win, and the bad guys lose as Banyon et.al realise the "Dubious Plan" of the WW2 German war machine isn't as bad as it could be, and their absolute plan of corruption gets foiled again
I love these books! They are adventures reminscent of serials like The Lone Ranger starring the Keystone Cops. Kublibki's writing style is that of a fan of this genre who has heavily researched foundations in the history of the time, added to a bit if mysticism and a whole lot of cynical humor. These Colton Banyon novels are very addicting. Try them and see for yourself
June 7, 2013
I received this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review. It was an excellent story. I finished it in 2 days. Colton Banyon and his sidekick friend/lover/partner Loni get involved in a case involving old Nazis. The case was brought to them through Loni's niece Cindy, who had been in Death Valley with her boss, roommate and a friend who found an old WWII plane buried in a sand dune.Since Banyon was somewhat of an artifact expert, Cindy called her aunt hoping to get a reward for finding the old plane.Soon not only Banyon and Loni but The FBI and Homeland Security get involved. Also an old woman who turns out to be the airplane's pilot and her daughter get into the mystery. She is able to provide Banyon with background information on the plane. An old Nazi who wanted to find it along with the treasure hidden by the Nazis shows up.So now it ends up being a race to see who finds the hidden treasure. After many twists and turns Banyon and friends are successful.The story also includes kidnappings and help from the Las Vegas mob. Banyon enlists the help from other old friends and gets invaluable help from his spirit guide Wolf. Great story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2013
After I didn't win a copy of this book in a Firstreads drawing, Gerald J. Kubicki very graciously sent me a word document copy anyway. What a nice thing to do!
When I first started reading the story, I didn't quite know what to make of it. After a while, I decided it must be a parody adventure novel, and enjoyed it on that level.
Colt Banyon is something of an Indiana Jones type of adventurer, who goes around having adventures with the help of his many friends, including Loni, his Chinese girlfriend who has a utility belt that Batman and Robin would envy, a scad of other hot women, and some guys too. Of course, Banyon is irresistible to all these women, and is either making love to them or trying to avoid it, for pretty much the entire novel. I believe he is in the clinches in practically every chapter.
The story, about a World War 2 era plane, a movement of ex-Nazis trying to take over the country, and a secret cave in Death Valley is pretty entertaining on a Saturday matinee serial, butreally doesn't make a lot of sense.
On the whole I enjoyed it, but I'm not sure I enjoyed it in the way the author intended.
When I first started reading the story, I didn't quite know what to make of it. After a while, I decided it must be a parody adventure novel, and enjoyed it on that level.
Colt Banyon is something of an Indiana Jones type of adventurer, who goes around having adventures with the help of his many friends, including Loni, his Chinese girlfriend who has a utility belt that Batman and Robin would envy, a scad of other hot women, and some guys too. Of course, Banyon is irresistible to all these women, and is either making love to them or trying to avoid it, for pretty much the entire novel. I believe he is in the clinches in practically every chapter.
The story, about a World War 2 era plane, a movement of ex-Nazis trying to take over the country, and a secret cave in Death Valley is pretty entertaining on a Saturday matinee serial, butreally doesn't make a lot of sense.
On the whole I enjoyed it, but I'm not sure I enjoyed it in the way the author intended.
July 17, 2012
Gerald Kubicki is back with the fifth book of the Colton Banyon series. Set in Death Valley, it starts off innocently enough, but the plot soon thickens with intrigue when a German war plane is discovered. Banyon and his team must solve many mysteries, along with engaging in a battle for their lives, and for the lives of the present-day world.
Filled with even more adventure, sex, and suspense, A Dubious Plan proves that the Banyon series is unstoppable. Short and attention grabbing chapters make this book an easy read, and one that you will not be able to put down. Topping off its success is the non-stop action, realistic dialogue, and come on, who doesn’t love a good World War II story with some Nazis thrown in?!
Drama, suspense, and mystery, Kubicki provides another fun and engaging read. A Dubious Plan is as good, if not better than the first four books in the series, and is a must if looking for some weekend entertainment!
Filled with even more adventure, sex, and suspense, A Dubious Plan proves that the Banyon series is unstoppable. Short and attention grabbing chapters make this book an easy read, and one that you will not be able to put down. Topping off its success is the non-stop action, realistic dialogue, and come on, who doesn’t love a good World War II story with some Nazis thrown in?!
Drama, suspense, and mystery, Kubicki provides another fun and engaging read. A Dubious Plan is as good, if not better than the first four books in the series, and is a must if looking for some weekend entertainment!
November 8, 2012
I'm not really a history person, so when I saw this was about Nazis, I wasn't sure if I would be that interested. I ended up really enjoying it. This book is fast-paced with an intriguing mystery, action, suspense, shooting, explosions, a spirit who talks to people, curses, and a great cast of characters. I especially like Loni, with her guns and attitude. I love this quote about her by Banyon, after she takes out one of the bad guy's bodyguards: "She is my bodyguard. I only need one. Now take this crybaby and get out now."
Loni and Banyon are detectives who, I believe, hunt down old Nazis and/or Nazi artifacts. This is the fifth book and I haven't ready any of the others, but I think that's right. I currently have the sixth book, A Dubious Artifact, waiting for me and I am anxious to read it. It is due out 11-15. There are also four more waiting to be published, so if you don't like to wait long between books this is a good series to start.
Loni and Banyon are detectives who, I believe, hunt down old Nazis and/or Nazi artifacts. This is the fifth book and I haven't ready any of the others, but I think that's right. I currently have the sixth book, A Dubious Artifact, waiting for me and I am anxious to read it. It is due out 11-15. There are also four more waiting to be published, so if you don't like to wait long between books this is a good series to start.
Want to Read
October 27, 2012A group of young people find the tail fin of an WWII plane in the desert. One of them is the niece to Loni who is a PI along with her partner, Colton Banyon who get involved. They find this is more involved than first thought and call in others to help. There are lots of surprises along the way and what a journey it turns out to be. I am glad I did not miss it. This novel is full of mystery and action with some humor and romance thrown in the mix. I really enjoyed reading this novel and it is an easy read novel. Reading is more limited time wise with a Kindle PC but I liked it so much I have already gotten the four ebooks that were written previous to this one. I recommend this book to all who like adventure and action. A GREAT READ! This was a Goodreads Firstread free book.
March 22, 2013
Generally when I read anything about Nazi Germany - it is nonfiction. There have been a few books I have read that were fiction, but they were very tightly based on reality. This is an entirely different sort of story. Definitely fiction and it takes the reader through this idea of artifacts and information all of a sudden uncovered, in the United States, that could lead to disastrous effects on America. This is the fifth book in the series and I have not read any of the others. This book is full of mystery, suspense, some humor and more. The characters and plot are well developed and keep the interest of the reader. Some of the "passion" scenes were just not realistic. I give this book 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2014
I got this book from the author. Thank you so much.
This book was a good book. It was very fast paced that makes you wont to keep reading.
This is the first book that i have read bye the author and I wont to read more of them.
This was a fun little adventure.I enjoyed this book but I think the female character comes off as dense when she shouldn't have to be.This makes her very vain and oblivious to a lot.
This book has a of mystery and suspense throughout it. This book will keep you entertained.
This book was a good book. It was very fast paced that makes you wont to keep reading.
This is the first book that i have read bye the author and I wont to read more of them.
This was a fun little adventure.I enjoyed this book but I think the female character comes off as dense when she shouldn't have to be.This makes her very vain and oblivious to a lot.
This book has a of mystery and suspense throughout it. This book will keep you entertained.
July 7, 2013
I received this book from the author in e-reader format. Thank you.
I thought the story was interesting; the connection to the Nazi's and the Lebensborn program was an eye opener. I was a bit put off by the initial introduction of the airplane site that was connected to lesbian sex in the desert. I would have liked this story if the sex was left out; it distracted the reader from the Nazi loot, the WW2 airplane crash site, the authorities trying to intervene and a wedding to occur.
I thought the story was interesting; the connection to the Nazi's and the Lebensborn program was an eye opener. I was a bit put off by the initial introduction of the airplane site that was connected to lesbian sex in the desert. I would have liked this story if the sex was left out; it distracted the reader from the Nazi loot, the WW2 airplane crash site, the authorities trying to intervene and a wedding to occur.
October 24, 2012
This is the first of Gerald J. Kubicki's work that I've read, and I am now a fan! Even though this was book #5 of a series, it stands on it's own. The story is fast paced, filled with action and drama, and keeps you turning the pages! I plan on reading books 1-4 soon! I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.
April 10, 2014
Excellent story! I loved the characters and the story line. I would recommend this book to my friends and I want to read all of this author's other books. The story is well written and I had a hard time putting it down. Great book, great author!
June 8, 2013
Big fan of author believe this to be one of his best. Plot and characters are well constructed.
June 15, 2013
I enjoyed this book. It was a unique story and flowed nicely. Not sure how I felt about the sexual curse, but it added chuckles to the story. Just a fun read! I would read others by this author.
April 2, 2014
Hug Kubicki fan. He always seems to find a new twist for his characters. You can read in any order and still have a great reading experience but why deny yourself read in order.
May 1, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this book so much that I'm starting his book A Dubious Artifact
June 12, 2016
I won this book in a good reads giveaway. The story line is not really what I enjoy reading. It was a fast paced suspenseful mystery.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews