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Buck Reilly Adventure #2
Green To Go
Buck Reilly went to hell and back in Red Right Return. In Green To Go, it's a one-way trip. Good news turns bad fast, and the bad just keeps coming in this thrilling new Buck Reilly adventure. The unexpected contents of his parent's Swiss bank account offer Buck a chance to dig himself out of the hole he's been in since the recession hit, but first he must recover the treasure maps and clues he lost at sea. Those plans get put on hold when a friend is accused of orchestrating the biggest theft in Key West's sordid history, and the FBI uses Buck's past against him to demand that he search for the thieves who fled aboard a hundred year-old schooner.
280 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2012
330 people are currently reading
575 people want to read
About the author
John H. Cunningham
23 books256 followersJohn H. Cunningham, outdoorsman, world traveler, and aviation enthusiast, is a commercial real estate professional and former editor. He splits his time between Virginia, New York and Key West with his wife and two daughters. His books include RED RIGHT RETURN, GREEN TO GO, CRYSTAL BLUE, SECOND CHANCE GOLD, MAROON RISING, FREE FALL TO BLACK, SILVER GOODBYE, WHITE KNIGHT, and THE LAST RAFT.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 30, 2013
I was probably a bit too harsh in my review of Red, Right, Return. I was rather excited to finally have the time to read Green to Go.
John Cunningham did a great job further developing the characters that showed up again, complete with a reminder oh their role in the first book, which helped since a year had passed since I read the first book. The story is engaging and difficult to put down - I read the whole thing in an afternoon on the beach. That alone should speak volumes about how much I enjoyed the book.
John Cunningham did a great job further developing the characters that showed up again, complete with a reminder oh their role in the first book, which helped since a year had passed since I read the first book. The story is engaging and difficult to put down - I read the whole thing in an afternoon on the beach. That alone should speak volumes about how much I enjoyed the book.
July 14, 2012
In his second Buck Reilly book, Cunningham appears to have upped his game a notch. Buck continues to connect with readers through both his ability to get into trouble and his struggles to get back out. Throw in a vintage seaplane here and there, a spicy Cuban tobacco grower, and some of that Cunningham hot sauce and out comes that best kind of summer reading - the kind that makes you not want to turn out the light at night until you've read just one more chapter, and then another, and then . . .
July 16, 2013
Buck Reilly is back! In a fast paced romp across continents, joined by his long suffering mechanic and the faithful Betty, Buck is fighting for his reputation and his life with his quirky charm and a whole lot of luck. But will his luck run out when he is stranded in the last place in the world he wants to be?
The story
The story begins fairly much where the previous Buck Reilly adventure, Red Right Return, ended. Buck solved the riddle of his father's code to access his parent's locked box in Switzerland, but as it turns out, this just leads to a bigger mystery. He's just as broke as ever, and his girlfriend isn't sticking around forever. It's time to settle some old scores and try for a win, but first he needs the maps he lost.
On his way home one night, drunk out of his skull, he sees something he isn't supposed to see. Thankfully, he doesn't actually remember it, but it turns out that that isn't a great excuse for witnessing one of the biggest treasure heists in the history of Florida. When he realises the life of a friend is at stake, and he's under pressure from the CIA, he decides to take matters into his own hands.
It's going to take all Buck's considerable skills to negotiate this one when it turns out the theft isn't just a political minefield pulling him all the way down to Panama. His old foes in Cuba are still feeling less than forgiving, and they are very, very involved. This time, it's going to take a miracle.
If only Buck would learn Spanish!
The style
I noticed it in the last Buck Reilly adventure, and I'm going to say it again. John Cunningham's ability to keep the story light-hearted while tackling some interesting political issues is really excellent. Buck is such a great character, downtrodden and sincere in his failure but also retaining a level of hope and positivity that keeps the reader rooting for him through the whole book. Any story about Buck could be a winner, but the fact that Cunningham puts him in theoretical Cuba right after the death of the Castro brothers, or in the middle of a heist of gold with political significance, is a testament to Cunningham's ability to spin a really engaging story while making the reader think.
It isn't just Buck who's great, all the characters seem effortlessly well rounded. I appreciate Cunningham's way of creating characters who, at first glance, could be light hearted clichés, but there's always something more about them. It keeps the reading experience light and comfortable, but lets the reader feel as though they're really getting something out of the book. I was pretty sure I could tell where it was going, but there were a couple of suspenseful occasions where I was gripping the book, hoping that this wasn't it for old Buck!
I don't know what it is about Miami, but it sure does produce some quality reads. Cunningham again throws out some stunning lines and descriptive passages. He has a lovely way of making the reader feel right there, and completely invested in the action. Hopefully Buck makes a reappearance soon!
Who is this book for?
This would be an excellent holiday read. Public transport read. Gift. It's not challenging or difficult to get through, and it keeps you wanting more.
If you like this book, you would also like...
Obviously, Cunningham's first novel, Red Right Return. And there's also Carl Hiaasen, another Miami story-teller with a penchant for the light hearted with an environmental twist.
August 8, 2012
John Cunningham and Buck Reilly have done it again! They both keep getting better and better!
Green To Go is a rip-roaring, lock you to your seat adventure that careens through the Caribbean with the momentum of a crash landing. Great characters, excellent suspense, just enough romance, and lots of action, all bound together with the author’s crisp writing style, eye for details, and sense of timing that gives the entire tale a crackling reality. You’re going to love this one!
– Michael Reisig
Green To Go is a rip-roaring, lock you to your seat adventure that careens through the Caribbean with the momentum of a crash landing. Great characters, excellent suspense, just enough romance, and lots of action, all bound together with the author’s crisp writing style, eye for details, and sense of timing that gives the entire tale a crackling reality. You’re going to love this one!
– Michael Reisig
July 26, 2017
The first book was very good, this book was even better. Can't wait to read the next book in the series!
September 6, 2018
The second book in the Buck Reilly series. A good read with some returning characters and some new ones. As I read them and review them, you will notice every book has a color in the title.
September 29, 2019
My review originally posted on Romancing-the-Book.com is below:
This was a continuation of Buck Reilly’s Adventures from Book 1 – Red Right Return – but I liked Green to Go so much more since the subject matter wasn’t as dark. There were lots of adventures with characters I met up with in the first book and it was nice to be back in Key West. I was transported to many locales besides Key West – the Bahamas, Panama, Mexico, and even Cuba which played a role in both books. The characters and plot were extremely well developed and there were historical references thrown in as well. The descriptions made me feel that I was part of the action – I could taste the fear at times along with the heat, the sweat and the dirt. Once again Betty, Buck’s plane, played a major role in the storyline.
There were so many adventures, fear, angst, sadness, friends, enemies, and even some romance that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. There were tears and laughter along the way too. Buck somehow always lands on his feet even if it doesn’t look like he will especially since he runs into major troubles along the way.
There was closure, along with some happiness at the end, but sadness too for those that had tried to help Buck to survive and return to the States. The epilogue tied up a lot of loose ends which was great. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Favorite Quote:“You’re violating Cuban waters and breaking international law!”
I felt the thin scar on my forehead from the last time I was on this very spot. When the blood dripped into my lap, I looked at my gashes and realized how razor-sharp the moray’s teeth had been.
This was a continuation of Buck Reilly’s Adventures from Book 1 – Red Right Return – but I liked Green to Go so much more since the subject matter wasn’t as dark. There were lots of adventures with characters I met up with in the first book and it was nice to be back in Key West. I was transported to many locales besides Key West – the Bahamas, Panama, Mexico, and even Cuba which played a role in both books. The characters and plot were extremely well developed and there were historical references thrown in as well. The descriptions made me feel that I was part of the action – I could taste the fear at times along with the heat, the sweat and the dirt. Once again Betty, Buck’s plane, played a major role in the storyline.
There were so many adventures, fear, angst, sadness, friends, enemies, and even some romance that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. There were tears and laughter along the way too. Buck somehow always lands on his feet even if it doesn’t look like he will especially since he runs into major troubles along the way.
There was closure, along with some happiness at the end, but sadness too for those that had tried to help Buck to survive and return to the States. The epilogue tied up a lot of loose ends which was great. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Favorite Quote:“You’re violating Cuban waters and breaking international law!”
I felt the thin scar on my forehead from the last time I was on this very spot. When the blood dripped into my lap, I looked at my gashes and realized how razor-sharp the moray’s teeth had been.
September 19, 2012
Very good sequel to Red Right Return. I like the continued character development, although the quick exit of the main love interest from the first novel was a bit abrupt IMHO. Continued good technical backing to ground the flying bits to something close to reality. I thought Cunningham showed his chops with his detailed description of the Cuban countryside; Americans have an interesting view of Cuba, always shrouded in mystery - this book explores and plays with that concept. The new love interest was well written if maybe a bit obvious, still fun to watch the interaction with the main characters. I flew through this book just like the first one, definitely kept my interest and kept the pages turning; finished it in less than a day and a half. Bring on the third round - lets get back to the treasure hunting!
Read
March 14, 2013Set in the Florida Keys this is a great chase for stolen treasure. The Atoch Treasure has been stolen from the museum. Buck Reilly is found passed out drunk on the lawn of the museum and must find out not only who took the treasure but where it is and get it back to clear his own name as well as his friend "Truck" who is on the security footage. Buck is sure that "Truck" has been coerced against his will to use his boat in the robbery. The plot twists and turns with all kinds of people trying to get to the treasure before Buck but he manages to out-think them or just get dumb lucky. Buck solves most of the mystery until his plane is shot down and crashes on the west end of Cuba then the fun really begins!
A lighthearted read that I highly reccommend!
A lighthearted read that I highly reccommend!
May 16, 2013
Disclosure: This ebook was provided to me free of charge through NetGalley for the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments, and ratings are my own.
Really interesting tale that had my attention the whole time. The pace was wonderful and the characters engaging. Beautiful storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat!
Being a Florida girl I loved that it was set in the Keys!! Sun, sand and treasure hunting!
I really love the eccentricity of the characters. Now that I know it is a sequel I need to backtrack and read the first book!
Really interesting tale that had my attention the whole time. The pace was wonderful and the characters engaging. Beautiful storytelling that kept me on the edge of my seat!
Being a Florida girl I loved that it was set in the Keys!! Sun, sand and treasure hunting!
I really love the eccentricity of the characters. Now that I know it is a sequel I need to backtrack and read the first book!
December 27, 2012
A fatalistic protagonist, exotic backdrops, non-stop action, and sensational nick-of-time heroics make for great escapist reading. I could almost suspend my disbelief for most of the story, especially because the author seems to know his stuff about seaplanes and SCUBA diving. But I was put off by the overuse of interior dialogue. Every time Buck voiced his questions about what was going on, I was taken out of the story.
I left this same review on Amazon.
I left this same review on Amazon.
March 1, 2013
This book was another awesome book. I guess i just have luck with winning AWESOME books :). It had a alot of suspense and action. In the first chapter already a BIG EVENT happens. Like how are you not suppose to keep reading? Even though i did not read the first book. I could understand it :D. Thats how good the author's descriptions and plot were ♥.
May 7, 2016
Another great addition to the Buck Reilly series. He's such a fun character to follow and his way of outwitting everyone else is highly entertaining. Buck is such a lovable underdog and you can't help but root for him.
I liked this novel and will read any of Buck's further adventures.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this novel and will read any of Buck's further adventures.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2012
John, you did it again! You kept me on the edge of my seat while Buck careened from one island in the Caribbean to the next. I enjoyed the returning characters and the new ones you introduced. Thanks for the great story!
October 16, 2012
John Cunningham’s Green to Go has it all – mystery, adventure, romance, dangerous and exotic locations, and characters you will
wish you could party with tonight – what could be better?
Don’t miss this one – though if you start it you might want to miss work
to finish it!
wish you could party with tonight – what could be better?
Don’t miss this one – though if you start it you might want to miss work
to finish it!
January 4, 2013
Green to go is the second book by Mr. Cunningham and both have been winners. Great characters, interesting if not always believable plot lines but that's part of the fun with this series. Green to Go was a definite Go for me. Looking forward to more in the series.
August 5, 2012
A terrific sequel to "Red Right Return"! I had a hard time putting down the book...I just wanted to find out how Buck was going to get himself and his crew out of the situation. Very good!
August 10, 2012
More I want more ...quickly become one of my faves.....next chapter please
October 17, 2012
Thought this was by far better than the first and it was great. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I actually had to take a break to catch my breath .
Can't wait for nb 3.
August 20, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. Keep up the great work John!
November 12, 2012
After having read the first book in the series and then this one I cannot wait to see what comes next!
February 9, 2013
My same review as for Cunningham's first book. Another fun beach book!
July 17, 2017
Green To Go (Buck Reilly book #2)
Buck continues to figure out a way to get out of FBI Agent Booth's hold over him and get over Karen who took off for New York. Meanwhile, he tries to drown his sorrows then runs into thieves robbing the museum of art and wakes up in the drunk tank wondering what really happened as he's still grasping at straws about what few memories he's able to recall. He knows that he has to try to get the treasures back, save his friends, and cons Ray into a salvage operation that results in the loss of his plane, Betty, and the discovery of a new plane, given the name of "The Beast." In the process, he, Ray and his new female friend recover the rest of the treasure, Guitterist, and clears up the mystery behind the museum's treasure. You'll enjoy finding out how all this happened as you read the book yourself. Can't wait to see what Buck gets into next.
Buck continues to figure out a way to get out of FBI Agent Booth's hold over him and get over Karen who took off for New York. Meanwhile, he tries to drown his sorrows then runs into thieves robbing the museum of art and wakes up in the drunk tank wondering what really happened as he's still grasping at straws about what few memories he's able to recall. He knows that he has to try to get the treasures back, save his friends, and cons Ray into a salvage operation that results in the loss of his plane, Betty, and the discovery of a new plane, given the name of "The Beast." In the process, he, Ray and his new female friend recover the rest of the treasure, Guitterist, and clears up the mystery behind the museum's treasure. You'll enjoy finding out how all this happened as you read the book yourself. Can't wait to see what Buck gets into next.
April 12, 2022
3.5 stars
Buck is back at it again. This is book 2 in the series and takes place right after the first one with buck at the bank trying to find out if he decoded the cypher correctly. The action quickly picks up when the island museum is robbed of its multimillion dollar artifacts. FBI agent booth calls in one of the favors on buck and now he’s off to track down the treasure. This storyline ends up interweaving with the previous book.
I did enjoy this book and some things that I didn’t like about the first one were improved here. It’s a fun beach read but not much more than that. Karen conveniently leaves so buck can find a new “most beautiful girl” he’s ever seen. I’m sure the new one will be gone by next book also. I will continue to read this series but I’m going to need to throw so other books in between or I think I’d get burnt out of this series.
3.5 stars
Buck is back at it again. This is book 2 in the series and takes place right after the first one with buck at the bank trying to find out if he decoded the cypher correctly. The action quickly picks up when the island museum is robbed of its multimillion dollar artifacts. FBI agent booth calls in one of the favors on buck and now he’s off to track down the treasure. This storyline ends up interweaving with the previous book.
I did enjoy this book and some things that I didn’t like about the first one were improved here. It’s a fun beach read but not much more than that. Karen conveniently leaves so buck can find a new “most beautiful girl” he’s ever seen. I’m sure the new one will be gone by next book also. I will continue to read this series but I’m going to need to throw so other books in between or I think I’d get burnt out of this series.
3.5 stars
June 25, 2017
So after spending most of the first book deciphering a code his father left for him, Buck is finally ready for some good news as he and his brother find out what is in the Swiss Bank account. Unfortunately, the only thing there are the original treasure maps Buck left with his father. He is still broke and now owes his brother even more money. On top of that, he finds out he is adopted.This is all good news compared to the troubles he is about to find himself in. A museum of priceless treasure is robbed and it looks like Buck's friend Truck is involved.F.B.I.Special Agent Booth orders Buck to find him and get the loot back pronto. Buck didn't figure on mercenaries, corrupt government officials, Peruvian bad guys and even an old nemesis getting in his way.
April 14, 2025
This Buck Reilly adventure was much better than the first which didn't exactly blow me away. Thanks to "Green to Go" I'll be back for more Buck Reilly. This time around, Reilly flies (accidently) to Cuba and gets stranded with Betty and Ray and they need to figure their way back to Key West all while be chased by the Cuban Secret Police and a crazed mercenary treasure hunter. It's a great story that keeps you coming back for more!
July 2, 2017
I had already read Red Right Return by J H Cunningham and decided to continue the series. It was a pleasant surprise that this story takes place in Cuba as i was reading while off watch aboard a Sailboat racing from Pensacola to Marina Hemingway.
Very good story that keeps you turning pages. Good Job Buck.
Very good story that keeps you turning pages. Good Job Buck.
November 7, 2018
The second book in the Buck Reilly Adventure series, Green To Go, was very similar to the first in the series... where I was looking for this one to "build" upon the first, I was only slightly satisfied in this particular case. Overall, I will continue to read the series, as they are an enjoyable beach/pool read; but I will space the rest of the series out over time.
May 29, 2020
Excellent writer!
I have read everything Wayne Stinnett and Steven Becker have written and enjoyed the abilities of the main characters. As I read book 1 I sort of missed that quality in Buck, but quickly overcame that opinion. The author makes Buck's character so real and sometimes very amusing. Looking forward to more!
I have read everything Wayne Stinnett and Steven Becker have written and enjoyed the abilities of the main characters. As I read book 1 I sort of missed that quality in Buck, but quickly overcame that opinion. The author makes Buck's character so real and sometimes very amusing. Looking forward to more!
July 23, 2021
This was an absolute pleasure to read. Buck is a great character to follow, and John Cunningham is a great story teller. I didn't want to put it down, but, when I had too, I looked for excuses to stop doing whatever I was doing to pick it up again. Now I'm off to read the third one... "Crystal Blue!"
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