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Paul MacDonald #1
True-Life Adventure
“A Prize Plot.” -San Francisco Examiner
“A bright, light, cleverly written tale.” -Cincinnati Post
Things were going lousy for ex-reporter Paul Mcdonald: No money, no girl friend, no bright new career as a mystery novelist … and then along came PI Jack Birnbaum with an offer. He’d detect, and Paul would write the client reports. It wasn’t much, but it would keep Spot the cat in Kitty Queen tidbits. And then this:
“That stuff’ll kill you.”
“What? Your coffee?” Jack was just doctoring his second cup.
“No. All that sweetener. You’re poisoning yourself.”
“We’ve all gotta go sometime.”
Jack went right about then. His eyes rolled back and he let go of the cup. Coffee sloshed all over my rug. His big body fell forward in the chair.
A day that begins with a body in your living room really ought to get better, but next comes burglary and after that, assault-by-cop. And Paul’s got a feeling that’s just the beginning. There must have been something someone didn't want him to know in one of those client reports. But what?
These were the facts: I was thirty-eight. I’d spent fifteen years on one major metropolitan daily or another. I’d written six unpublished detective novels. Unpublished in spite of my name.
John D. MacDonald did it daily. Ross Macdonald did it deeper. Gregory Mcdonald did it with dash.
Wrote thrillers and got them published.
But not Paul Mcdonald.
I just wrote them, supporting my habit with clients like Jack.
I had about two hundred bucks to last me the rest of my life.
My only client was dead.
The market for mysteries was terrible.
I didn’t get out enough.
The only thing I’d ever done successfully was write newspaper stories.
And I was sitting on a great story.
A story he can sell, if he can catch the murderer before the murderer catches him.
Birnbaum's last report concerned a kidnapped child, so Paul begins there. The trail leads him to the laboratory of a Nobel laureate geneticist, and then to City Hall, where an extremely nasty surprise awaits. But there’s an upside—lovely witness Sardis Kincannon. Nothing like falling in love while you’re running for your life!
“One more blithe San Fran outing with a likeable journalist-sleuth by the name of Paul Mcdonald … Smith improves with each story and this is her best to date.” -Kirkus Reviews
The San Francisco Bay Area shines here, as does the author's wit and humor.
Fans of CASTLE, MURDER SHE WROTE, even ELLERY QUEEN will enjoy this fast-paced and funny take on the mystery-writer-as-detective.
“A bright, light, cleverly written tale.” -Cincinnati Post
Things were going lousy for ex-reporter Paul Mcdonald: No money, no girl friend, no bright new career as a mystery novelist … and then along came PI Jack Birnbaum with an offer. He’d detect, and Paul would write the client reports. It wasn’t much, but it would keep Spot the cat in Kitty Queen tidbits. And then this:
“That stuff’ll kill you.”
“What? Your coffee?” Jack was just doctoring his second cup.
“No. All that sweetener. You’re poisoning yourself.”
“We’ve all gotta go sometime.”
Jack went right about then. His eyes rolled back and he let go of the cup. Coffee sloshed all over my rug. His big body fell forward in the chair.
A day that begins with a body in your living room really ought to get better, but next comes burglary and after that, assault-by-cop. And Paul’s got a feeling that’s just the beginning. There must have been something someone didn't want him to know in one of those client reports. But what?
These were the facts: I was thirty-eight. I’d spent fifteen years on one major metropolitan daily or another. I’d written six unpublished detective novels. Unpublished in spite of my name.
John D. MacDonald did it daily. Ross Macdonald did it deeper. Gregory Mcdonald did it with dash.
Wrote thrillers and got them published.
But not Paul Mcdonald.
I just wrote them, supporting my habit with clients like Jack.
I had about two hundred bucks to last me the rest of my life.
My only client was dead.
The market for mysteries was terrible.
I didn’t get out enough.
The only thing I’d ever done successfully was write newspaper stories.
And I was sitting on a great story.
A story he can sell, if he can catch the murderer before the murderer catches him.
Birnbaum's last report concerned a kidnapped child, so Paul begins there. The trail leads him to the laboratory of a Nobel laureate geneticist, and then to City Hall, where an extremely nasty surprise awaits. But there’s an upside—lovely witness Sardis Kincannon. Nothing like falling in love while you’re running for your life!
“One more blithe San Fran outing with a likeable journalist-sleuth by the name of Paul Mcdonald … Smith improves with each story and this is her best to date.” -Kirkus Reviews
The San Francisco Bay Area shines here, as does the author's wit and humor.
Fans of CASTLE, MURDER SHE WROTE, even ELLERY QUEEN will enjoy this fast-paced and funny take on the mystery-writer-as-detective.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 1985
629 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
March 21, 2016
True Life Adventure- A Paul McDonald Mystery by Julie Smith is a 2013 publication.
I have always liked Julie Smith’s mysteries- from Rebecca Schwartz cozies to the Skip Langdon series. This one is new to me, but because I know this author, I was sure I would enjoy this one.
I wasn’t sure what to make of Paul initially. He is a mystery writer turned detective in San Francisco. He’s a little odd, pretty funny, and before long I decided I liked him despite his foibles.
This first book in the series, has Paul looking into the death of the detective he was working for, which involved the disappearance of a woman and child. Along the way, Paul meets a slew of unbalanced people, and becomes involved romantically with a woman who becomes may his perfect match and becomes his partner in crime, so to speak.
The plot is pretty interesting, with a mad scientist on the loose, and multiple attempts on Paul’s life, and of course the whereabouts of the missing woman and child, which is at the heart of the case.
Paul’s first person narrative will remind you of the old school detectives like John and Ross McDonald, a couple of Paul's influences, but much quirkier. He’s brutally honest with himself and also lies to himself, but knows he’s lying to himself, which is super funny and makes for an interesting characterization.
The story was a bit uneven at times, and had a few rocky moments before the plot firmed up and became very absorbing, but I enjoyed it enough to continue on with the series for a few more installments to see how things go.
This book is compared to Ellery Queen, and Castle, so that should give you an idea of the type of series this will be. If you like amateur detectives, with an old school tone, you will want to give this one a try.
3.5 stars
I have always liked Julie Smith’s mysteries- from Rebecca Schwartz cozies to the Skip Langdon series. This one is new to me, but because I know this author, I was sure I would enjoy this one.
I wasn’t sure what to make of Paul initially. He is a mystery writer turned detective in San Francisco. He’s a little odd, pretty funny, and before long I decided I liked him despite his foibles.
This first book in the series, has Paul looking into the death of the detective he was working for, which involved the disappearance of a woman and child. Along the way, Paul meets a slew of unbalanced people, and becomes involved romantically with a woman who becomes may his perfect match and becomes his partner in crime, so to speak.
The plot is pretty interesting, with a mad scientist on the loose, and multiple attempts on Paul’s life, and of course the whereabouts of the missing woman and child, which is at the heart of the case.
Paul’s first person narrative will remind you of the old school detectives like John and Ross McDonald, a couple of Paul's influences, but much quirkier. He’s brutally honest with himself and also lies to himself, but knows he’s lying to himself, which is super funny and makes for an interesting characterization.
The story was a bit uneven at times, and had a few rocky moments before the plot firmed up and became very absorbing, but I enjoyed it enough to continue on with the series for a few more installments to see how things go.
This book is compared to Ellery Queen, and Castle, so that should give you an idea of the type of series this will be. If you like amateur detectives, with an old school tone, you will want to give this one a try.
3.5 stars
July 18, 2017
Only finished this book a few days ago, and I can't remember a thing about the plot or characters.
What I do remember is:
1. I couldn't wait to get to the end because the "snappy" dialog was really getting on my nerves.
2. Whatever the ending was, I was disappointed.
3. There were several errors, especially "then" for "than".
What I do remember is:
1. I couldn't wait to get to the end because the "snappy" dialog was really getting on my nerves.
2. Whatever the ending was, I was disappointed.
3. There were several errors, especially "then" for "than".
May 27, 2019
Sometimes when you pick up a book as a giveaway or for 99 cents you get something other than you expected. This is one of those times. Right off the bat, be advised that although it is being advertised as if it were a recently-released book, it was written in 1985, which was not mentioned in the promo blurb nor is it obvious in the first chapters. Many story elements are now technologically and culturally dated, so think of this as a period piece.
The story follows Paul Mcdonald (this is how the author spells it), who is a former newspaper reporter in San Francisco, who is now struggling to write a detective novel and working for a private detective ghost-writing his client reports. When the PI drops dead in Paul's apartment, Paul gets sucked into the investigation and starts working on a freelance newspaper article because the PI was murdered and it seems to be connected to a case Paul and the dead PI were working on. When two other connected characters show up dead and someone tries to kill Paul, the chase is afoot
The book is written in a first person narrative with a hard-boiled tone filled with one-liners and clever quips. This would be generally effective except for the constant side commentary where Paul seems to be "talking" to the reader. These become tiresome and distracting and never adds anything meaningful to the plot. There are also many annoying editing errors. The plot starts out fast, but then bogs down big time in the middle. Paul's love interest never feels authentic and his witty repartee with the local homicide detective is cute but a little to artificial. There is never a good explanation for the first major plot point (the reason why the PI was hired) but there are some entertaining twists along the way and an appropriately harrowing final sequence. overall this is a decent first novel for a new author in 1985 with common flaws but an interesting plot and a main character with some potential. But check carefully before buying book #2 in 2019 because it might have been written last century.
The story follows Paul Mcdonald (this is how the author spells it), who is a former newspaper reporter in San Francisco, who is now struggling to write a detective novel and working for a private detective ghost-writing his client reports. When the PI drops dead in Paul's apartment, Paul gets sucked into the investigation and starts working on a freelance newspaper article because the PI was murdered and it seems to be connected to a case Paul and the dead PI were working on. When two other connected characters show up dead and someone tries to kill Paul, the chase is afoot
The book is written in a first person narrative with a hard-boiled tone filled with one-liners and clever quips. This would be generally effective except for the constant side commentary where Paul seems to be "talking" to the reader. These become tiresome and distracting and never adds anything meaningful to the plot. There are also many annoying editing errors. The plot starts out fast, but then bogs down big time in the middle. Paul's love interest never feels authentic and his witty repartee with the local homicide detective is cute but a little to artificial. There is never a good explanation for the first major plot point (the reason why the PI was hired) but there are some entertaining twists along the way and an appropriately harrowing final sequence. overall this is a decent first novel for a new author in 1985 with common flaws but an interesting plot and a main character with some potential. But check carefully before buying book #2 in 2019 because it might have been written last century.
August 29, 2018
I was predisposed to like TRUE-LIFE ADVENTURE by J. Paul Drew. The protagonist, Paul Mcdonald, is an ex-reporter. I am an ex-reporter. His goal is to be a successful fiction writer, except without much luck. My goal has always been to be a successful fiction writer. Except without much luck. Add to that a light, breezy style, a plausible mystery plot, and a beautiful woman that falls in love with Mcdonald, flaws and all.
Of course, what sounds like a winning combination does not always provide satisfaction. Fortunately, Drew delivers the goods.
I particularly enjoyed comments about being a reporter:
“You’ve heard about journalists burning themselves out? Too much true-life adventure is what does it. Making things up saves a lot of wear and tear.” (Explaining why writing mysteries is better than journalism…a point I do not entirely agree with.)
“I plunged in, hoping she wasn’t talented enough to get a writing job and ruin her life.” (Making a point about how self-destructive a writing life can be.)
“…Susanna was a journalist, and it was probably no accident she’d become one— she was just like all the others I knew. The thing she hated worst was not knowing something.” (A common trait of reporters: an insatiable curiosity.)
“Journalism’s a dirty job and all that, but it has its cheap little thrills.” (An understatement about some of the high points of the job.)
“He just couldn’t understand why anyone in the world wouldn’t want to talk to a reporter any time of the day or night. Newspaper folks are funny that way.” (True.)
I should also comment on the plot; after all, this is a mystery. So, here goes…
The story is just fine. A mystery fan who isn’t even an ex-reporter will not be disappointed.
Of course, what sounds like a winning combination does not always provide satisfaction. Fortunately, Drew delivers the goods.
I particularly enjoyed comments about being a reporter:
“You’ve heard about journalists burning themselves out? Too much true-life adventure is what does it. Making things up saves a lot of wear and tear.” (Explaining why writing mysteries is better than journalism…a point I do not entirely agree with.)
“I plunged in, hoping she wasn’t talented enough to get a writing job and ruin her life.” (Making a point about how self-destructive a writing life can be.)
“…Susanna was a journalist, and it was probably no accident she’d become one— she was just like all the others I knew. The thing she hated worst was not knowing something.” (A common trait of reporters: an insatiable curiosity.)
“Journalism’s a dirty job and all that, but it has its cheap little thrills.” (An understatement about some of the high points of the job.)
“He just couldn’t understand why anyone in the world wouldn’t want to talk to a reporter any time of the day or night. Newspaper folks are funny that way.” (True.)
I should also comment on the plot; after all, this is a mystery. So, here goes…
The story is just fine. A mystery fan who isn’t even an ex-reporter will not be disappointed.
November 19, 2015
Not one of Julie's bestq
Did not have the pizzazz, electronic excitement of the New Orleans novels. Paul McDonald put me to asleep He was a zero personality.
Did not have the pizzazz, electronic excitement of the New Orleans novels. Paul McDonald put me to asleep He was a zero personality.
January 26, 2019
Entertaining and plausible. Liked the main character more as time went on. Light profanity .
May 6, 2019
Stanley “Stan” Smith (deputy coroner) was explaining to Paul McDonald (38, mystery writer/author, ex-reporter) what might have happened to Jack Birnbaum (55, PI).
Jacob Koehler (43, eccentric, Nobel prize-winner, genetic engineering) was 1 of Jack’s client.
Lindsay Hearne (Jacob’s ex-wife, mother) had kidnapped per say their daughter Terry Koehler (17, leukemia).
Officer De Silva, & Officer Partridge arrived on the crime scene. It appeared Paul’s house had been burglarized.
DI Howard Blick came with a warrant & wanted the Birnbaum case file.
It was nowhere to be found.
Now Lindsay Hearne (Jacob’s ex-wife/mother, Bay Currents newspaper reporter) has disappeared.
Paul’s next stop was to see Steve Koehler (41, brother, Kogene Systems, Harvard).
John Reid (25, Kogene Systems scientist) gave Paul the grand tour of the research facility.
What is Sardis Kincannon up to?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; booksBnimble Mysteries Thrillers & Suspense; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
Jacob Koehler (43, eccentric, Nobel prize-winner, genetic engineering) was 1 of Jack’s client.
Lindsay Hearne (Jacob’s ex-wife, mother) had kidnapped per say their daughter Terry Koehler (17, leukemia).
Officer De Silva, & Officer Partridge arrived on the crime scene. It appeared Paul’s house had been burglarized.
DI Howard Blick came with a warrant & wanted the Birnbaum case file.
It was nowhere to be found.
Now Lindsay Hearne (Jacob’s ex-wife/mother, Bay Currents newspaper reporter) has disappeared.
Paul’s next stop was to see Steve Koehler (41, brother, Kogene Systems, Harvard).
John Reid (25, Kogene Systems scientist) gave Paul the grand tour of the research facility.
What is Sardis Kincannon up to?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; booksBnimble Mysteries Thrillers & Suspense; EBookStage; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
October 27, 2025
This felt a bit like a classic hardboiled detective story, like Raymond Chandler or Dashiell Hammett. It was a bit confusing in the beginning. Several characters & threads are introduced, but soon J. Paul Drew (aka Julie Smith) begins to braid those threads together & you start to see how they all interconnect.
Paul MadDonald (Drew doesn't seem to know how Scottish surnames work - she consistently refers to him as "Mcdonald" —even when referring to the fast food company!) is a down-on-his luck journalist/author — he barely works at The Chronicle in San Francisco, his novels are going nowhere, & he's single. He resorts to ghostwriting reports for a private investigator. That is until said P.I. drops dead in Paul's kitchen, followed by a robbery & more deaths & attempts of murder. Paul, along with his potential love interest Sardis Kincannon must try to solve the dead P.I.'s last case; a missing child, the killer/thief, & the connection to a pharmaceutical company.
As I said, all the threads are confusing at first, but once all the connections start coming together, it's a non-stop thrill ride. Paul is sarcastic, self-deprecating, & smart. Written in 1985, it was refreshing to read a story where no one could call for help on their cell (they had to use a phone booth or find a landline) or simply wait for the DNA results. Those are fun, too, but it's also fun to remember a time when crime-solving wasn't so easy. It's an action-packed whodunnit, & I'm excited to read the next book in the duology, & already sad that there's only one book left.
Paul MadDonald (Drew doesn't seem to know how Scottish surnames work - she consistently refers to him as "Mcdonald" —even when referring to the fast food company!) is a down-on-his luck journalist/author — he barely works at The Chronicle in San Francisco, his novels are going nowhere, & he's single. He resorts to ghostwriting reports for a private investigator. That is until said P.I. drops dead in Paul's kitchen, followed by a robbery & more deaths & attempts of murder. Paul, along with his potential love interest Sardis Kincannon must try to solve the dead P.I.'s last case; a missing child, the killer/thief, & the connection to a pharmaceutical company.
As I said, all the threads are confusing at first, but once all the connections start coming together, it's a non-stop thrill ride. Paul is sarcastic, self-deprecating, & smart. Written in 1985, it was refreshing to read a story where no one could call for help on their cell (they had to use a phone booth or find a landline) or simply wait for the DNA results. Those are fun, too, but it's also fun to remember a time when crime-solving wasn't so easy. It's an action-packed whodunnit, & I'm excited to read the next book in the duology, & already sad that there's only one book left.
October 11, 2023
a confusing and mixed review here.
I gave this Author a try for the first time in January 2022, and was very unhappy with his work. I decided to give him another try, and i am sad to report not much has changed.
While the story itself was very good, interesting and full of excitement. it was written in the same manor as how a pre-teen girl will tell a story. The Author added in lots of details that had nothing what so ever to do with the story what so ever. He meanders down many different ideas and thoughts that never tie into the story line at all. It seems to me that he was very worried about his word count and not so much about the tale he was trying to weave.
As far as a who done it, this story was great, Normally I can have it all figured out with in the first dozen pages or so, this one had me until the very end. Perhaps because he took so many side roads i was destracted.
I gave this Author a try for the first time in January 2022, and was very unhappy with his work. I decided to give him another try, and i am sad to report not much has changed.
While the story itself was very good, interesting and full of excitement. it was written in the same manor as how a pre-teen girl will tell a story. The Author added in lots of details that had nothing what so ever to do with the story what so ever. He meanders down many different ideas and thoughts that never tie into the story line at all. It seems to me that he was very worried about his word count and not so much about the tale he was trying to weave.
As far as a who done it, this story was great, Normally I can have it all figured out with in the first dozen pages or so, this one had me until the very end. Perhaps because he took so many side roads i was destracted.
May 26, 2017
This is a fast-paced book with little depth. Told in first person, it lacks description (except for one physical description of a woman) and relies on conveniences and gimmicks. It's poorly edited with missing words, odd phrasing, and wrong word choices. Ironically, there is a challenge at the end of the book for readers to report proofreading errors to make up to $20.
The author does not go into depth on character backgrounds, and even the postlude is skimpy. The setting is San Francisco, and we don't even get any descriptive detail about that area.
Sorry to say this book didn't do much for me.
The author does not go into depth on character backgrounds, and even the postlude is skimpy. The setting is San Francisco, and we don't even get any descriptive detail about that area.
Sorry to say this book didn't do much for me.
July 14, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed. Written in the 80s, I'm surprised I haven't heard of author before. I believe he has a series. Good story, like the characters. So odd to read a murder mystery where people use phone booths and not cell phones! I'll check out book 2 and see if I'm still impressed with this author. I felt like this author was crafting a book, not zooming through the writing process to see how many he could get online in a week or so. Apologies, I'm a bit tired of hyper-fast writing.
July 16, 2017
Despite my misgivings when I started reading this book it managed to keep my interest. It was sort of like when I started the Touchstone Trilogy the beginning didn't seem like something I'd like. However Touchstone is now one of my favorite series. I find myself reading it over and over. I don't think True-Life Adventure will quite fit in that category. It did entertain me and that is what is important. So I'm not sorry I downloaded it at all.
March 10, 2018
An outstanding who dunnit!
A down and not quite out writer doesn't like people dying in his house doesn't like people trying to kill him and doesn't like the investigating officer. So he decides that he needs to solve the mystery himself and his exploits make for a great mystery read. The other characters even those who are killed along the way make a very interesting supporting cast. I really like this book and am glad that there's another one in the series.
A down and not quite out writer doesn't like people dying in his house doesn't like people trying to kill him and doesn't like the investigating officer. So he decides that he needs to solve the mystery himself and his exploits make for a great mystery read. The other characters even those who are killed along the way make a very interesting supporting cast. I really like this book and am glad that there's another one in the series.
August 21, 2018
Interesting
I like how the mystery unfolds, I am interested in a lot of the characters and their development, and I really like how fast he’s the action is. I will definitely be checking out more from the C.’s, and look forward to seeing how things turn out. I do wish we got to see more behind the scenes of the insanity, and more on the cover up. I also think the blackmail is pretty late compared to what it could’ve been.
I like how the mystery unfolds, I am interested in a lot of the characters and their development, and I really like how fast he’s the action is. I will definitely be checking out more from the C.’s, and look forward to seeing how things turn out. I do wish we got to see more behind the scenes of the insanity, and more on the cover up. I also think the blackmail is pretty late compared to what it could’ve been.
July 13, 2017
Doesn't quite jell
Lots of characters, lots of plot, lots of interesting settings, but somehow it doesn't quite jell in terms of suspense. It's competently written, but focus is missing. It's a shame because it has a great explanation of cell-based medical treatment, not to mention what's involved in corporate identity.
Lots of characters, lots of plot, lots of interesting settings, but somehow it doesn't quite jell in terms of suspense. It's competently written, but focus is missing. It's a shame because it has a great explanation of cell-based medical treatment, not to mention what's involved in corporate identity.
July 18, 2017
This story was so exciting I couldn't keep my eyes open, literally. In fact, I kept dozing off during the entire time I was reading it. Old cliches, unlikable hero, no depth, and not much of a mystery. It was a bit of a struggle to finish, but I wanted to reach the ending so bad I could taste it. And it was like a flat beer, no head!
July 25, 2017
Nope - not sure if its because I just finished a really great book but just nope. I enjoy a potboiler as much as anyone, and I like to read something light after reading a wonderful/heavy/intense book but Paul MacDonald is coming across as a pratt and a tool so I'm going to put this down - only up to chapter 10 but no. Maybe another time?
August 23, 2017
Funny look at murder
Paul McDonald doesn't know what he knows. And in the meantime, someone is killing his sources of information. He meets Sardis, a women he is attracted to like a magnet... pull together, then push apart. His nemesis Detective Click s a source of barbs and insults. Believable and full of realistic emotions.
Paul McDonald doesn't know what he knows. And in the meantime, someone is killing his sources of information. He meets Sardis, a women he is attracted to like a magnet... pull together, then push apart. His nemesis Detective Click s a source of barbs and insults. Believable and full of realistic emotions.
March 1, 2020
I read this on my Kindle as a free book. It was better written than many free books, and I'd read others by the same author. The book follows Paul McDonald, an aspiring writer as he tries to stay alive after a PI acquaintance is murdered and it looks like Paul is next. Characters are well-developed and the plot was easy to follow.
August 22, 2020
Paul Mc Donald, former journalist, writes up reports for a private investigator . But the report is stolen. Then the private detective is killed.
Paul becomes involved with a Nobel laureate, his ill daughter, his tv personality ex-wife as they seek to find the killer who has burned down McDonald’s house and tried to kill him.
Paul becomes involved with a Nobel laureate, his ill daughter, his tv personality ex-wife as they seek to find the killer who has burned down McDonald’s house and tried to kill him.
July 16, 2017
Humor and Excitement Combined
The mystery in this story will keep you wondering all the way to the end. The relationship issues of Paul are humerus and sad depending on the day or situation. This is a quick read and I really enjoyed the adventure.
The mystery in this story will keep you wondering all the way to the end. The relationship issues of Paul are humerus and sad depending on the day or situation. This is a quick read and I really enjoyed the adventure.
July 16, 2017
Interesting read
My stars are *** enjoyed reading it;****really enjoyed reading it;***** wholeheartedly recommend it. This was a good book, interesting characters and plot. Well written. Good afternoon's read. Would read more from this author.
My stars are *** enjoyed reading it;****really enjoyed reading it;***** wholeheartedly recommend it. This was a good book, interesting characters and plot. Well written. Good afternoon's read. Would read more from this author.
July 18, 2017
Pay attention. This is a protagonist you are going to appreciate. He is you.
I will look forward to reading the whole series. This book is fast paced and believable. It will make you think and teach you things you wanted to know and did not know how to ask.
I will look forward to reading the whole series. This book is fast paced and believable. It will make you think and teach you things you wanted to know and did not know how to ask.
July 18, 2017
Fun read
I really had fun reading g this book. I like the hard, but soft, main character. A very different kind of detective. The ending was a nice surprise also. Overall a very good way to spend an afternoon.
I really had fun reading g this book. I like the hard, but soft, main character. A very different kind of detective. The ending was a nice surprise also. Overall a very good way to spend an afternoon.
August 11, 2017
I felt it was pretty light weight. The main character is pretty annoying, what with all the second guessing. The only cool guy is Booker. The cop Blink is good for a laugh. Will give it one more try with the next one.
January 18, 2018
A crime writer that had been working with a detective gets drawn into a real life mystery where he learns not only of real life murders but of his own relationship obstacles. A great quick read that kept me entertained thru the end.
August 26, 2018
Fast paced, a newspaper reporter turned detective finding a dead man in his house. He is on his own, while finding a trail of greed, and another murder. He seems to be in over his head, and how will he solve, or get help to solve. Enjoyable, unusual and a good read.
December 2, 2018
Starts at a gallop and never stops
Great read. Complex well shaped characters who make us care and a complex plot which unfolds while maintaining tension make this book a page turner.
You wont be disappointed.
Great read. Complex well shaped characters who make us care and a complex plot which unfolds while maintaining tension make this book a page turner.
You wont be disappointed.
June 2, 2019
Intriguing
Fun read. Wry sense of humor, evolving plot lines, and characters who do not take themselves or anyone else seriously. It was wonderful to read something outside the mold of the typical mystery novel. Looking forward to the next book.
Fun read. Wry sense of humor, evolving plot lines, and characters who do not take themselves or anyone else seriously. It was wonderful to read something outside the mold of the typical mystery novel. Looking forward to the next book.
October 12, 2019
The lead character is a supposed to be a past news reporter turned freelance turned writer and now ghostwriter for a detective who dies in his home. Just to satisfy his curiosity and maybe save his life, he has to find the killer.
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