Never Play Another Man's Game

Wilson Mystery #4

by Mike Knowles

Following the first three installments in the mafia enforcer's adventures, this whodunit finds Wilson taking up with his old partner, Ruby. The pair set out to take down an armored car carrying a huge payday, but there's one problem--Ruby's kid Rick is the one who scouted the job, and he wants in on the deal. Despite his misgivings about Rick, Wilson signs on with the condition that he runs the job. The heist is a success, but the antihero soon finds himself at the heart of a double cross, learning the hard way that honor among thieves is a myth. Packed with suspense and surprising twists, this novel adds yet another ruthless chapter to the celebrated Wilson Mystery series.

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2012

Reviews

[Teena in Toronto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wilson lives in Hamilton, ON, and had an interesting career working for an Italian mobster, Paolo. Since Paolo is now dead, Wilson is unemployed and living on his savings, which are rapidly running out. When the police show up at his house one morning, he sets it on fire and takes off.

When Ruby, a former colleague of his late uncle, shows up with the idea to rob an armoured truck full of money, Wilson can't resist because he needs the cash ... plus Ruby has made him an offer he can't resist. Wilson takes charge , the job is done but then he is double crossed. Wilson doesn't take that lightly and is determined to find Ruby and Rick to not only get his share of the robbery but he's also seeking revenge.

This is the fourth (of six) in the Wilson series. Though it is part of series (I've now read the first four), it works as a stand alone as there is enough information provided. As with the first two, I liked the writing style. It was blunt and to the point. This was my favourite of the four. As a head's up, there is swearing and violence. I like Wilson ... he's a loner with no attachments and has just two friends.

I look forward to reading more books by this author.

Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2017/05...

[Mark Zodda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another very good entry into Mike Knowles Wilson series. Hard-boiled and violent, Knowles does this genre better than anyone else writing today. The main character is a criminal and no hero, but he is consistent in his approach to events and takes a violent approach to his dealings with anyone he doesn't know. This is definitely not a series or a book for everyone, but if you are interested in something dark, violent and different, it is recommended.

[Joe O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding; Continuing character: Wilson; an old acquaintance down on her luck comes to Wilson for help on a job to get money her son needs to pay off a triad; when things go south, Wilson is no holds barred in terms of making it right and getting revenge; ultra violent and characters with no redeeming values - but can't put it down

[Larry · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Wilson books are as tough as nails, and then some, but this one leads the pack. The ending involves a potential (and highly likely) unpleasant mass exchange of violence among more than two dozen armed, mean, and angry people, none more so than Wilson and his pal, Steve.

[Hella Comat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, I didn't realize that I was reading a book from a series, and that this was #3 or #4.... Gotta do my research a bit better. But, in my quest for staying true to as many Canadian authors as I can, this one came from close to home: Mike Knowles, the author, is a teacher in Hamilton. He refers to lots of familiar local places - James St., the escarpment, Binbrook, Christa! - in this look at crime from the criminal's point of view. A good story with so much double crossing going on it made my head spin:)

[Derrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those who like noirish, hard-boiled stories, Knowles has written one right up your alley. This book can be read alone, but you are best served getting the entire series. Darwin is a great character and he gets into and out of a lot of great situations. I am surprised Knowles' name doesn't come up more when the better new noir authors are discussed. Hopefully he can sign with a better publisher (I can see him with Minotaur) and he can be promoted a little more to get his name out. I for one am glad I stumbled upon his series.

[Dolly Sandor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review forthcoming.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Canadian Noir? Really a well written fast paced tale. More from Knowles would be appreciatyed

[Judy Odom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being from Hamilton, I really enjoyed the book with all the local areas. The story was also good , some twists and turns to keep you reading