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Mac McKenzie #21
Man in the Water
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2024
109 people are currently reading
4307 people want to read
About the author
David Housewright
63 books413 followersA past president of the Private Eye Writers of America, David Housewright has published 28 crimes novels including In A Hard Wind (June 2023 St. Martin’s Minotaur) and has contributed short stories to 15 anthologies and other publications. He has earned an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America, a Shamus nomination from the PWA, and three Minnesota Books Awards. A reformed newspaper reporter and ad man, he has also taught writing courses at the University of Minnesota and Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis. His name and face were recently added to “Minnesota Writers on the Map” by the Minnesota Historical Society and Friends of the St. Paul Public Library.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 17, 2025
I am on a series binge of David Housewright’s Mac McKenzie collection, of which this is the twenty first book. Housewright explores the life of Mac ‘Rushmore’ McKenzie, an amateur private investigator from St. Paul, Minnesota who is always eager to help those close to him. The discovery of a body at a marina pushes retirement on the backburner yet again, as the victim's past and manner of death creates chaos amongst the local boating community, not to mention the family. Mac prepares for an intense conversation or two, though could not have predicted what awaited him. Housewright serves up something quite alluring for the attentive reader.
Mac ‘Rushmore’ McKenzie came into a significant amount of money years ago, which led to his abrupt retirement from the St. Paul PD. Now, he’s working as an unlicensed PI and helping those worth his while. Seeking a little R&R with friends, Mac and his wife, Nina, make their way to a marina for an evening of social interaction. However, things take a significant turn when Nina discovers a body floating in the water. Mac's quiet evening and ongoing retirement are halted abruptly, as he begins looking into the victim and the happenings that led to the body's location in the water.
While nothing is confirmed, foul play cannot be discounted, making Mac all the more leery of stepping on too many toes. That being said, the insurance company is quick to call it a suicide, though the victim, E.J. Woods, has nothing that would lead Mac to feel there is any justification for it. As Woods' widow begins acting quite oddly, it is Navaeh Woods, the victim's daughter, who is sure murder is the most likely end result and begs Mac to put all his effort into proving her suspicion.
While Mac does his work off the grid and with his own form of determination, many put up their own barriers for successful investigation. There are whispers of PTSD and no logical explanation for why E.J. Woods might have been in the water. Mac's discussions open many cans of worms that span from local squabbles to a past that Navaeh should most likely not know about her father. All the while, Nina is beset with nightmares about everything and finds herself pulled into a number of troubling legal clashes. Mac knows he will have to get to the heart of the matter, if only to determine the truth behind the victim's death. Housewright offers up a great addition to the series that kept me reading well into the night.
While I have the latest novel in the series as an ARC, I wanted some context and so am binge reading the entire collection. Housewright develops a narrative that works well and keeps the story moving throughout the book. Chapters are short enough to propel the story forward, while also offering some key insights to better explain what's taken place for all involved. Characters work well and provide angles and flavouring that the reader can enjoy, while feeling they enrich the larger narrative and enhance the book. The plot builds with each chapter and scenario, providing a solid foundation on which the story rests, but also keeps things surprising so that nothing is too predictable until the final reveal. I am excited to have caught up with my binge and now have the ARC to enjoy!
Kudos, Mr. Housewright, for a great story that explores yet another unique perspective.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Mac ‘Rushmore’ McKenzie came into a significant amount of money years ago, which led to his abrupt retirement from the St. Paul PD. Now, he’s working as an unlicensed PI and helping those worth his while. Seeking a little R&R with friends, Mac and his wife, Nina, make their way to a marina for an evening of social interaction. However, things take a significant turn when Nina discovers a body floating in the water. Mac's quiet evening and ongoing retirement are halted abruptly, as he begins looking into the victim and the happenings that led to the body's location in the water.
While nothing is confirmed, foul play cannot be discounted, making Mac all the more leery of stepping on too many toes. That being said, the insurance company is quick to call it a suicide, though the victim, E.J. Woods, has nothing that would lead Mac to feel there is any justification for it. As Woods' widow begins acting quite oddly, it is Navaeh Woods, the victim's daughter, who is sure murder is the most likely end result and begs Mac to put all his effort into proving her suspicion.
While Mac does his work off the grid and with his own form of determination, many put up their own barriers for successful investigation. There are whispers of PTSD and no logical explanation for why E.J. Woods might have been in the water. Mac's discussions open many cans of worms that span from local squabbles to a past that Navaeh should most likely not know about her father. All the while, Nina is beset with nightmares about everything and finds herself pulled into a number of troubling legal clashes. Mac knows he will have to get to the heart of the matter, if only to determine the truth behind the victim's death. Housewright offers up a great addition to the series that kept me reading well into the night.
While I have the latest novel in the series as an ARC, I wanted some context and so am binge reading the entire collection. Housewright develops a narrative that works well and keeps the story moving throughout the book. Chapters are short enough to propel the story forward, while also offering some key insights to better explain what's taken place for all involved. Characters work well and provide angles and flavouring that the reader can enjoy, while feeling they enrich the larger narrative and enhance the book. The plot builds with each chapter and scenario, providing a solid foundation on which the story rests, but also keeps things surprising so that nothing is too predictable until the final reveal. I am excited to have caught up with my binge and now have the ARC to enjoy!
Kudos, Mr. Housewright, for a great story that explores yet another unique perspective.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 13, 2024
2⭐️
I tried to push through with this one but had to DNF at 40%. There was just nothing holding my attention.
Maybe that's my fault- I thought this would be a thrilling murder mystery and it turned out to be neither. What it was was an investigation into a seemingly straightforward drowning and a insurance fraud case. I think the main character McKenzie was meant to have a dry, sarcastic sense of humour but to me it just read a total lack of personality
Giving it a two star because it was well written and researched.
Thank you to Netgalley and publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I tried to push through with this one but had to DNF at 40%. There was just nothing holding my attention.
Maybe that's my fault- I thought this would be a thrilling murder mystery and it turned out to be neither. What it was was an investigation into a seemingly straightforward drowning and a insurance fraud case. I think the main character McKenzie was meant to have a dry, sarcastic sense of humour but to me it just read a total lack of personality
Giving it a two star because it was well written and researched.
Thank you to Netgalley and publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: June 25, 2024
David Housewright brings back Rushmore McKenzie, now a retired police officer, in his newest McKenzie police novel, “Man in the Water”. “Water” is the twenty-first novel in this substantial police investigation series but I can tell you from personal experience, it is not necessary to read any of the other twenty novels if you want to take the chance with this one.
McKenzie and his wife are visiting friends at a local marina when a woman comes up to them, begging for help in finding her husband. After a brief search, McKenzie’s wife, Nina, comes across a dead man in the water. McKenzie does his best to stay out of the investigation and enjoy retired life but the man’s daughter, Neveah, reaches out to him and begs him to help her find out how her father died. Neveah is convinced her father was murdered but no one else seems to believe her. With the insurance agencies and the police officers investigating, no one is trying to determine why someone would kill E.J. Woods- except for McKenzie.
Housewright’s McKenzie is a, now retired, police officer who, like many of his ilk in this genre, can’t leave the job behind. E.J. Woods and his friends are all retired veterans, some suffering from PTSD, which endears the murder victim to the reader almost immediately, becoming invested in the outcome of McKenzie’s investigation.
I am sure that many of McKenzie’s characters have shown up in previous novels before, and I know that his personal history on the job and with his wife, Nina, have been discussed in further detail, but I found that I needed none of that information to make this novel enjoyable and engaging.
Police procedurals are a genre on their own for good reason, and they are pretty similar in many ways, so it’s very important that authors create a character that is unique and memorable, to separate them from the herd. McKenzie fits many stereotypes of fictional policemen, yet he has a genuine and honest side to him that earns respect and makes him stand out.
As mentioned, I am new to both Housewright and to Rushmore McKenzie himself, but the fact that I was able to jump right into this series without immediately falling behind and feeling lost speaks to Housewright’s talent. I will definitely read more from the author (and from this series), if I get the chance.
Expected publication date: June 25, 2024
David Housewright brings back Rushmore McKenzie, now a retired police officer, in his newest McKenzie police novel, “Man in the Water”. “Water” is the twenty-first novel in this substantial police investigation series but I can tell you from personal experience, it is not necessary to read any of the other twenty novels if you want to take the chance with this one.
McKenzie and his wife are visiting friends at a local marina when a woman comes up to them, begging for help in finding her husband. After a brief search, McKenzie’s wife, Nina, comes across a dead man in the water. McKenzie does his best to stay out of the investigation and enjoy retired life but the man’s daughter, Neveah, reaches out to him and begs him to help her find out how her father died. Neveah is convinced her father was murdered but no one else seems to believe her. With the insurance agencies and the police officers investigating, no one is trying to determine why someone would kill E.J. Woods- except for McKenzie.
Housewright’s McKenzie is a, now retired, police officer who, like many of his ilk in this genre, can’t leave the job behind. E.J. Woods and his friends are all retired veterans, some suffering from PTSD, which endears the murder victim to the reader almost immediately, becoming invested in the outcome of McKenzie’s investigation.
I am sure that many of McKenzie’s characters have shown up in previous novels before, and I know that his personal history on the job and with his wife, Nina, have been discussed in further detail, but I found that I needed none of that information to make this novel enjoyable and engaging.
Police procedurals are a genre on their own for good reason, and they are pretty similar in many ways, so it’s very important that authors create a character that is unique and memorable, to separate them from the herd. McKenzie fits many stereotypes of fictional policemen, yet he has a genuine and honest side to him that earns respect and makes him stand out.
As mentioned, I am new to both Housewright and to Rushmore McKenzie himself, but the fact that I was able to jump right into this series without immediately falling behind and feeling lost speaks to Housewright’s talent. I will definitely read more from the author (and from this series), if I get the chance.
August 18, 2024
I borrowed this from the Red Wing Library. I usually stick to the cozy side of the mystery genre, but I picked up this thriller because it had a good bit of local media coverage; the city of Red Wing and several local businesses have a prominent role.
This is the 21st book in the McKenzie series. Though some past events were referenced, the book stands perfectly well on its own because McKenzie is very much an archetype of a former cop. The narrative is heavy on dialogue, and light on description and introspection; this pushes the pace along at a fast clip.
McKenzie is involved in the mystery from the get-go: he and his wife find a body in the St. Croix River while visiting a friend's boat at the cusp of spring. There is no evident trauma to the man, a veteran by the name of E.J. Woods, meaning the initial investigation points more toward suicide, causing much legal wrangling between insurance companies and Woods's family. McKenzie only gets more involved at the request of Woods's daughter, and oh boy, does he soon start unsnarling a big mess of associations and secrets.
The author writes with a deep familiarity of police, FBI, and insurance investigations. He also demonstrates knowledge of the Twin Cities, which as a newcomer to the area, I found fascinating. I also was amused to see what he wrote about the familiar places in the small town where I live. I'd be up for reading more books in this series.
This is the 21st book in the McKenzie series. Though some past events were referenced, the book stands perfectly well on its own because McKenzie is very much an archetype of a former cop. The narrative is heavy on dialogue, and light on description and introspection; this pushes the pace along at a fast clip.
McKenzie is involved in the mystery from the get-go: he and his wife find a body in the St. Croix River while visiting a friend's boat at the cusp of spring. There is no evident trauma to the man, a veteran by the name of E.J. Woods, meaning the initial investigation points more toward suicide, causing much legal wrangling between insurance companies and Woods's family. McKenzie only gets more involved at the request of Woods's daughter, and oh boy, does he soon start unsnarling a big mess of associations and secrets.
The author writes with a deep familiarity of police, FBI, and insurance investigations. He also demonstrates knowledge of the Twin Cities, which as a newcomer to the area, I found fascinating. I also was amused to see what he wrote about the familiar places in the small town where I live. I'd be up for reading more books in this series.
September 12, 2024
This was a good mystery thriller. Man In The Water is book twenty-one in the Mac McKenzie series, but you can easily read it without reading the previous books. I liked the mystery and overall story of this book, but it was fairly slow paced and I didn’t particularly care for any of the characters. That being said, it was a good book and you could tell that it was well researched as you followed McKenzie throughout the investigation.
Thank you Minotaur Books for the gifted copy.
Thank you Minotaur Books for the gifted copy.
February 23, 2024
Picked this book up on a whim because I liked its cover and to test out NetGalley, so this is the first book I've read by David Housewright. I'm glad to see it's part of a series of books following the adventures of Rushmore McKenzie, and look forward to seeing what other trouble he's found himself in.
Going into the book unfamiliar with the series, I got a little worried early on that I had guessed what was happening, and it was going to be somewhat of a military buddy trope, but luckily that wasn't it at all. Keeping it vague to avoid spoilers, I'll just say I did not guess the ending and enjoyed the book the whole way through.
I've also always wanted to visit the Twin Cities and the book did a good job of making me want to visit more (despite all the murder).
Going into the book unfamiliar with the series, I got a little worried early on that I had guessed what was happening, and it was going to be somewhat of a military buddy trope, but luckily that wasn't it at all. Keeping it vague to avoid spoilers, I'll just say I did not guess the ending and enjoyed the book the whole way through.
I've also always wanted to visit the Twin Cities and the book did a good job of making me want to visit more (despite all the murder).
September 3, 2024
Easy 4 stars
The latest in the McKenzie series by David Housewright. I truly enjoy these mysteries featuring a laid-back guy whose only motivation is usually to help someone and ties up loose ends in an investigation to solve a mystery which often puts him at odds with local law enforcement. As in this case.
When his wife finds the body of an Army veteran in the lake, it is inevitable that former cop, now unofficial P.I. Rushmore McKenzie will get enmeshed in a complicated case of possible murder.
It all starts with the body in the water—on what should be the first boat day of the season, McKenzie’s wife Nina finds a dead Army vet. As the dock owner and the insurance companies claim that it was suicide, despite the deceased, E.J. Woods, having no obvious reason to kill himself, his widow starts acting suspiciously. McKenzie finds himself pulled into the fight when Naveah, the victim’s daughter, convinced her father was murdered, asks him to investigate.
Further complicating the situation are uncooperative boaters, allegations of PTSD, and the simple fact that there was no reason for E.J. to be in the water. McKenzie’s investigation unearths not only the petty squabbles surrounding the lake and its dock, but details of her father’s past that Naveah is perhaps better off not knowing. With Nina haunted by dreams of the body and the legal fight over cause of death becoming increasingly nasty, McKenzie may be the only one interested in finding justice for E.J.— and uncovering the truth before another person dies.
Another very enjoyable read.
The latest in the McKenzie series by David Housewright. I truly enjoy these mysteries featuring a laid-back guy whose only motivation is usually to help someone and ties up loose ends in an investigation to solve a mystery which often puts him at odds with local law enforcement. As in this case.
When his wife finds the body of an Army veteran in the lake, it is inevitable that former cop, now unofficial P.I. Rushmore McKenzie will get enmeshed in a complicated case of possible murder.
It all starts with the body in the water—on what should be the first boat day of the season, McKenzie’s wife Nina finds a dead Army vet. As the dock owner and the insurance companies claim that it was suicide, despite the deceased, E.J. Woods, having no obvious reason to kill himself, his widow starts acting suspiciously. McKenzie finds himself pulled into the fight when Naveah, the victim’s daughter, convinced her father was murdered, asks him to investigate.
Further complicating the situation are uncooperative boaters, allegations of PTSD, and the simple fact that there was no reason for E.J. to be in the water. McKenzie’s investigation unearths not only the petty squabbles surrounding the lake and its dock, but details of her father’s past that Naveah is perhaps better off not knowing. With Nina haunted by dreams of the body and the legal fight over cause of death becoming increasingly nasty, McKenzie may be the only one interested in finding justice for E.J.— and uncovering the truth before another person dies.
Another very enjoyable read.
August 18, 2024
Book #21 in the McKenzie series and I have enjoyed every one of them. I discovered this author by searching for local authors in my hometown. It’s a joy for me to follow this series and actually know every location in the book the author brings me to. McKenzie was on the St Paul police department for 12 years and retired a very wealthy man. He now lives in downtown Minneapolis with his wife, Nina. McKenzie has a soft heart and has a habit of helping people that ask for his help, usually friends, but also strangers. When Nina and McKenzie find the body of a man in the water in a marina in Still Water, the daughter of the dead man asks McKenzie to investigate because she believes he was murdered. He reluctantly agrees to help, and finds so many clues to a puzzle he can’t put together. But McKenzie keeps searching and what he discovers puts his life in danger.
The author always writes a great mystery, and as I said I know all the locations he includes. Nina owns a jazz club/restaurant and one of the singers mentioned is Lori Dokken and Friends. I’ve seen Lori perform many times over the years, so the mention of her made me smile.
I also like the humor the author includes throughout the book, especially when McKenzies inner voice speaks to him.
Kudos to you, Mr Housewright, for continuing this fabulous series.
The author always writes a great mystery, and as I said I know all the locations he includes. Nina owns a jazz club/restaurant and one of the singers mentioned is Lori Dokken and Friends. I’ve seen Lori perform many times over the years, so the mention of her made me smile.
I also like the humor the author includes throughout the book, especially when McKenzies inner voice speaks to him.
Kudos to you, Mr Housewright, for continuing this fabulous series.
August 11, 2024
MAN IN THE WATER is everything readers have come to expect in the Rushmore McKenzie series. In this 21st entry, David Housewright once again presents an engaging story with just enough twists to create a few surprises and to bring the plot full circle.
McKenzie is showing a bit of age, but he remains a man of honor blessed with serendipitous wealth, a wife he cherishes (Nina), a wide circle of supportive friends, and a propensity to find trouble. In MAN OF WATER, McKenzie and Nina discover a corpse in the St. Croix River near Stillwater, in the short-term disrupting plans for a nice day on the water with friends. Over the following days, weeks, and then months, McKenzie is inexorably drawn deeper and deeper into an investigation of how the dead man ended up in the water. In that process, he will endear himself to new friends, help the deceased family finds answers and then defy their wishes to stay away, and face unexpected dangers.
Law enforcement is more of an ally in this novel than in some previous books in the series, but the investigation really rides on McKenzie's initiative and persistence. The solution to the mystery is layered, as Housewright adroitly ties together all the strands he creates along the way. MAN IN THE WATER is another worthy entry in this series. A decent story, well told.
How many close calls
can happen before close is
too close? Just one more?
McKenzie is showing a bit of age, but he remains a man of honor blessed with serendipitous wealth, a wife he cherishes (Nina), a wide circle of supportive friends, and a propensity to find trouble. In MAN OF WATER, McKenzie and Nina discover a corpse in the St. Croix River near Stillwater, in the short-term disrupting plans for a nice day on the water with friends. Over the following days, weeks, and then months, McKenzie is inexorably drawn deeper and deeper into an investigation of how the dead man ended up in the water. In that process, he will endear himself to new friends, help the deceased family finds answers and then defy their wishes to stay away, and face unexpected dangers.
Law enforcement is more of an ally in this novel than in some previous books in the series, but the investigation really rides on McKenzie's initiative and persistence. The solution to the mystery is layered, as Housewright adroitly ties together all the strands he creates along the way. MAN IN THE WATER is another worthy entry in this series. A decent story, well told.
How many close calls
can happen before close is
too close? Just one more?
November 25, 2024
Living in MPLS, I enjoyed the setting and references to locations throughout MN. Solid detective novel, but not amazing.
April 22, 2024
Retired police officer, Rushmore McKenzie, and his wife are off to visit friends at the local marina when a pretty blonde, underdressed for the cold, runs to them begging for help to find her husband. And her husband, EJ Woods, turns out to be the man in the water. Unclear if it's an accident (who are we kidding!), or something more sinister, McKenzie is pulled into the storyline and begins investigating at the request of the deceased's daughter Neveah.
I enjoyed the police and military aspects of the story - so many characters served in either the armed forces or police work. I didn't even realize it's part of a series until after I'd finished - so you can totally read it stand alone. Although now I'm intrigued and want to check out more from David Housewright!
Thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and David Housewright for the eARC.
I enjoyed the police and military aspects of the story - so many characters served in either the armed forces or police work. I didn't even realize it's part of a series until after I'd finished - so you can totally read it stand alone. Although now I'm intrigued and want to check out more from David Housewright!
Thanks to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books and David Housewright for the eARC.
December 25, 2024
An acceptable read, can't say that I'll try another from the author. Too much focus on local IPA's and the like.
March 27, 2024
This book hooked me with its title and cover. I have not read the other books in this series, but it doesn’t make the story hard to follow at all. It reads like a standalone. I can’t wait to dive in to the other books in this series.
The book was obviously very well researched and it was well written. The main character, Rushmore McKenzie, leads you through the investigation and I liked that perspective a lot. It gives the reader an insight into the inner workings of his mind as an investigator. You see him trying to solve the case through his interactions with other people and his inner monologues. It was like you were his partner, trying to help him solve the case.
And keeping in the spirit of the mystery drama, there is always a twist! I didn’t see this ending coming (and I can figure out endings 70% of the time). I thought I was following the case (I had my suspects and everything) but David Housewright threw me for a loop and I loved that.
The only problem I had with the book (and it’s not really a problem) is that it was very slow paced. I found myself pushing through the story in multiple places, but I’m glad I did!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The book was obviously very well researched and it was well written. The main character, Rushmore McKenzie, leads you through the investigation and I liked that perspective a lot. It gives the reader an insight into the inner workings of his mind as an investigator. You see him trying to solve the case through his interactions with other people and his inner monologues. It was like you were his partner, trying to help him solve the case.
And keeping in the spirit of the mystery drama, there is always a twist! I didn’t see this ending coming (and I can figure out endings 70% of the time). I thought I was following the case (I had my suspects and everything) but David Housewright threw me for a loop and I loved that.
The only problem I had with the book (and it’s not really a problem) is that it was very slow paced. I found myself pushing through the story in multiple places, but I’m glad I did!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 27, 2024
This book hooked me with its title and cover. I have not read the other books in this series, but it doesn’t make the story hard to follow at all. It reads like a standalone. I can’t wait to dive in to the other books in this series.
The book was obviously very well researched and it was well written. The main character, Rushmore McKenzie, leads you through the investigation and I liked that perspective a lot. It gives the reader an insight into the inner workings of his mind as an investigator. You see him trying to solve the case through his interactions with other people and his inner monologues. It was like you were his partner, trying to help him solve the case.
And keeping in the spirit of the mystery drama, there is always a twist! I didn’t see this ending coming (and I can figure out endings 70% of the time). I thought I was following the case (I had my suspects and everything) but David Housewright threw me for a loop and I loved that.
The only problem I had with the book (and it’s not really a problem) is that it was very slow paced. I found myself pushing through the story in multiple places, but I’m glad I did!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
The book was obviously very well researched and it was well written. The main character, Rushmore McKenzie, leads you through the investigation and I liked that perspective a lot. It gives the reader an insight into the inner workings of his mind as an investigator. You see him trying to solve the case through his interactions with other people and his inner monologues. It was like you were his partner, trying to help him solve the case.
And keeping in the spirit of the mystery drama, there is always a twist! I didn’t see this ending coming (and I can figure out endings 70% of the time). I thought I was following the case (I had my suspects and everything) but David Housewright threw me for a loop and I loved that.
The only problem I had with the book (and it’s not really a problem) is that it was very slow paced. I found myself pushing through the story in multiple places, but I’m glad I did!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 15, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "Man In The Water", the latest McKenzie book from David Housewright. I have read a number of the books in this series, and enjoyed every one of them.
This time, McKenzie and his wife, Nina, inadvertently end up in the middle of a mystery - die EJ Woods die of a misadventure, suicide or murder? There are conflicting thoughts from his family, friends and acquaintances.
When McKenzie and Nina encounter Elizabeth "Bizzy" Woods at a local marina - where they are visiting friends who have a boat docked there - she tells them that she cannot find her husband; unfortunately, he's located shortly thereafter in the water, really most sincerely dead.
When it comes to light that EJ had purchased multiple insurance policies, with double indemnity attached to each, the insurance agencies claim that the death was suicide and are refusing to pay. The dead man's wife refuses to believe that it was suicide and launches a lawsuit agains the marina, alleging unsafe conditions. The dead man's daughter believes that her father was murdered, and wants McKenzie to investigate, thus launching us into a multi-pronged investigation with many red herrings and possible conspiracies.
Was the death related to his business? Did anyone else know that he was in therapy for PTSD (his buddies at the VFW certainly did).
It's a rollercoaster ride for McKenzie as he tries to untangle all of the relationships and clues, leading to the final solution (and keeping us all on tenterhooks at the same time).
I particularly enjoy McKenzie's internal monologues as he navigates the ups and downs of the case.
Can certainly be read as a standalone novel - there is certainly enough backstory that you won't feel at sea - but the entire series is worth investing your time.
This time, McKenzie and his wife, Nina, inadvertently end up in the middle of a mystery - die EJ Woods die of a misadventure, suicide or murder? There are conflicting thoughts from his family, friends and acquaintances.
When McKenzie and Nina encounter Elizabeth "Bizzy" Woods at a local marina - where they are visiting friends who have a boat docked there - she tells them that she cannot find her husband; unfortunately, he's located shortly thereafter in the water, really most sincerely dead.
When it comes to light that EJ had purchased multiple insurance policies, with double indemnity attached to each, the insurance agencies claim that the death was suicide and are refusing to pay. The dead man's wife refuses to believe that it was suicide and launches a lawsuit agains the marina, alleging unsafe conditions. The dead man's daughter believes that her father was murdered, and wants McKenzie to investigate, thus launching us into a multi-pronged investigation with many red herrings and possible conspiracies.
Was the death related to his business? Did anyone else know that he was in therapy for PTSD (his buddies at the VFW certainly did).
It's a rollercoaster ride for McKenzie as he tries to untangle all of the relationships and clues, leading to the final solution (and keeping us all on tenterhooks at the same time).
I particularly enjoy McKenzie's internal monologues as he navigates the ups and downs of the case.
Can certainly be read as a standalone novel - there is certainly enough backstory that you won't feel at sea - but the entire series is worth investing your time.
August 10, 2024
This is one of my favorite series. Please never end it like some of my other favorites are doing. I love MacKenzie. ❤️
March 15, 2024
This book has a very simple premise but works really well. A body is found early in the book and the rest of the book is spent following McKenzie trying to uncover what happened. The author writes very well, incorporating humour and sarcasam as appropriate as well as explaining things just enough to leave them up for interpretation, which I love as it really makes you think and feel accomplished that you understood it without the author having to spell it out for you. Kind of like a club only few people will belong to. The ending was a perfect way to finish off the book, I have no complaints about the story line or ending.
The only criticism I may add is, near the beginning of the book, something was brought up that I feel like should have been investigated more, or at least revisited again at another time later in the book. The way it was brought about made it seem important, and then essentially the main character was too lazy to check it out, and then it was never mentioned again. Even though there was good potential of it having results on the investigation.
However, character building and plot development was perfect overall and I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
The only criticism I may add is, near the beginning of the book, something was brought up that I feel like should have been investigated more, or at least revisited again at another time later in the book. The way it was brought about made it seem important, and then essentially the main character was too lazy to check it out, and then it was never mentioned again. Even though there was good potential of it having results on the investigation.
However, character building and plot development was perfect overall and I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
March 15, 2024
This book has a very simple premise but works really well. A body is found early in the book and the rest of the book is spent following McKenzie trying to uncover what happened. The author writes very well, incorporating humour and sarcasam as appropriate as well as explaining things just enough to leave them up for interpretation, which I love as it really makes you think and feel accomplished that you understood it without the author having to spell it out for you. Kind of like a club only few people will belong to. The ending was a perfect way to finish off the book, I have no complaints about the story line or ending.
The only criticism I may add is, near the beginning of the book, something was brought up that I feel like should have been investigated more, or at least revisited again at another time later in the book. The way it was brought about made it seem important, and then essentially the main character was too lazy to check it out, and then it was never mentioned again. Even though there was good potential of it having results on the investigation.
However, character building and plot development was perfect overall and I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
The only criticism I may add is, near the beginning of the book, something was brought up that I feel like should have been investigated more, or at least revisited again at another time later in the book. The way it was brought about made it seem important, and then essentially the main character was too lazy to check it out, and then it was never mentioned again. Even though there was good potential of it having results on the investigation.
However, character building and plot development was perfect overall and I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
March 4, 2024
The only thing better than learning there is a new McKenzie novel is reading it. David Housewright simply doesn't disappoint. Man in the Water is another winning addition to this sensational series which began in 2004. Once again, Housewright showcases his ability to hook the reader from the very first page. A book that begins with a scream from McKenzie's wife ends with the sound of applause from the reader. It's another engaging adventure with the wit and charm we've come to expect. It is perfectly paced and treats the reader to a rousing conclusion. I couldn't put it down. It's simply that good. Thank you to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, & NetGalley for the advance reading copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 19, 2024
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.0 of 5
Rushmore "Mac" McKenzie and his wife, Nina, are visiting friends at a local marina when a woman comes to them, begging for help. Her husband is missing. It is Nina who finds the man, dead, and clinging to a step under the water.
McKenzie does his best to not get involved and enjoy the retired life but the dead man’s daughter begs him to help her find out how her father died. Neveah is convinced her father was murdered but no one else seems to believe her. With the insurance agencies and the police officers investigating, no one is trying to determine why someone would kill E.J. Woods- except for McKenzie and one concerned beat cop.
I've really come to enjoy these Mac McKenzie books. Set in Minnesota (my home territory) with a P.I. who takes on jobs because he can. He's no saint - he retired from the police force in order to receive an insurance pay-out (something he couldn't do as a law officer) in the millions. He's still got contacts on the force and his investigative skills are strong. But danger seems to find Mac and his investigations almost always bring him into contact with individuals not afraid to take a life and it's usually Mac in their way.
Not surprisingly, it isn't a straight line from death to murder to killer and McKenzie weaves through central Minnesota, meeting a number of interesting characters who have had contact with, and perhaps reason to kill, the dead man. And when Mac gets a little to close, it's Nina who is in danger.
This book isn't the most action-packed or the most thrilling of McKenzie novels, but it is a solid police procedural with a tough, realistic central figure.
This is the 21st book in the series but you can pick up any book and simply enjoy it - you don't have to read them in order.
Looking for a good book? David Housewright's Man in the Water is a pleasant diversion for mystery fans. It makes a great beach read.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Rushmore "Mac" McKenzie and his wife, Nina, are visiting friends at a local marina when a woman comes to them, begging for help. Her husband is missing. It is Nina who finds the man, dead, and clinging to a step under the water.
McKenzie does his best to not get involved and enjoy the retired life but the dead man’s daughter begs him to help her find out how her father died. Neveah is convinced her father was murdered but no one else seems to believe her. With the insurance agencies and the police officers investigating, no one is trying to determine why someone would kill E.J. Woods- except for McKenzie and one concerned beat cop.
I've really come to enjoy these Mac McKenzie books. Set in Minnesota (my home territory) with a P.I. who takes on jobs because he can. He's no saint - he retired from the police force in order to receive an insurance pay-out (something he couldn't do as a law officer) in the millions. He's still got contacts on the force and his investigative skills are strong. But danger seems to find Mac and his investigations almost always bring him into contact with individuals not afraid to take a life and it's usually Mac in their way.
Not surprisingly, it isn't a straight line from death to murder to killer and McKenzie weaves through central Minnesota, meeting a number of interesting characters who have had contact with, and perhaps reason to kill, the dead man. And when Mac gets a little to close, it's Nina who is in danger.
This book isn't the most action-packed or the most thrilling of McKenzie novels, but it is a solid police procedural with a tough, realistic central figure.
This is the 21st book in the series but you can pick up any book and simply enjoy it - you don't have to read them in order.
Looking for a good book? David Housewright's Man in the Water is a pleasant diversion for mystery fans. It makes a great beach read.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2024
“Man in the Water” (Twin Cities P.I. Mac McKenzie #21) by David Housewright ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2. Genre: Noir Fiction/Police Procedural. Location: The Twin Cities area, Minnesota, USA. Time: present.
THE SERIES: Ex-St. Paul cop Rushmore (Mac) McKenzie has time and money. But Mac is bored. So now he’s an unofficial private investigator, surrounded by complicated crimes, including murder. Mac’s not bored anymore!
THIS BOOK: On the season’s 1st boat day, Mac’s wife Nina Truhler finds the body of 62 year old Army veteran E.J. Woods in the St Croix River a few miles north of Stillwater. The dock owner and insurance companies claim it was suicide. But Woods had no obvious reason to kill himself, and his widow Bizzy is acting suspiciously. Neveah, the victim’s daughter, is convinced it was murder, and asks Mac to investigate. Mac finds uncooperative boaters full of petty squabbles, PTSD allegations, and no reason for Woods to be in the water. Meanwhile, the legal fight over cause of death becomes increasingly nasty.
Author Housewright’s main character McKenzie may be retired from the cop shop, but this is definitely a police procedural novel. Housewright clearly likes details. He lists court transcripts, and describes lots of historical data. For example, he spends 5 pages sharing the history of Ft Snelling and quoting the entire “The Last Duty Call” from the Ft Snelling Memorial Rifle Squad website. While many authors unfortunately still use racial cues by adding color descriptors only for people of color (the black man), he notably avoids this stereotype by describing the Caucasian race in color as well: (the man was “white and round”.)
If you like long-term series where characters grow over time, lots of Twin City details, a main character with friends and a healthy relationship, and police procedures, pick up this book! It’s 3.5 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
THE SERIES: Ex-St. Paul cop Rushmore (Mac) McKenzie has time and money. But Mac is bored. So now he’s an unofficial private investigator, surrounded by complicated crimes, including murder. Mac’s not bored anymore!
THIS BOOK: On the season’s 1st boat day, Mac’s wife Nina Truhler finds the body of 62 year old Army veteran E.J. Woods in the St Croix River a few miles north of Stillwater. The dock owner and insurance companies claim it was suicide. But Woods had no obvious reason to kill himself, and his widow Bizzy is acting suspiciously. Neveah, the victim’s daughter, is convinced it was murder, and asks Mac to investigate. Mac finds uncooperative boaters full of petty squabbles, PTSD allegations, and no reason for Woods to be in the water. Meanwhile, the legal fight over cause of death becomes increasingly nasty.
Author Housewright’s main character McKenzie may be retired from the cop shop, but this is definitely a police procedural novel. Housewright clearly likes details. He lists court transcripts, and describes lots of historical data. For example, he spends 5 pages sharing the history of Ft Snelling and quoting the entire “The Last Duty Call” from the Ft Snelling Memorial Rifle Squad website. While many authors unfortunately still use racial cues by adding color descriptors only for people of color (the black man), he notably avoids this stereotype by describing the Caucasian race in color as well: (the man was “white and round”.)
If you like long-term series where characters grow over time, lots of Twin City details, a main character with friends and a healthy relationship, and police procedures, pick up this book! It’s 3.5 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
December 13, 2024
Man in the Water is the twenty-first book in the Mac Makenzie series. It is a stand-alone read and easy to pick up past history. This is my first book in the series, and I was very impressed. It was easy to read and quite entertaining if you like dry wit and sarcasm.
McKenzie are invited to visit their friends who have a boat in the marina nearby. As soon as they arrive, they are asked by a woman to help her find her husband who is missing. Mackenzie wife, Nina, screams and he runs to her side to see she has found a body in the water, but clinging to the ladder. Normally you would expect a floater, but clinging to a ladder is unusual which was the first thing that made me continue on with the book.
McKenzie is quickly involved in solving the mystery of the drowned man. He finds himself in danger which appears to be a common thread throughout the series based on the conversation between him and his wife.
This story moves quickly and is told from McKenzie's point of view. The reader is given insight as to how his mind works while working the mystery in addition to a lot of sarcasm and dry wit which is entertaining. There are a lot of characters which might be regulars based on the relationships.
The author appears to have a good understanding police, FBI, and insurance investigations. This information was not glossed over and was informative. I also like to read series that are based in the Midwest as it often feels as an untapped market.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book and likely the series. Generally, I prefer to start a series at the beginning, but that was not the case for me this time. I read the description and thought it sounded like a good fit. I am very glad to have found this one. Hoping to read more in the future,
McKenzie are invited to visit their friends who have a boat in the marina nearby. As soon as they arrive, they are asked by a woman to help her find her husband who is missing. Mackenzie wife, Nina, screams and he runs to her side to see she has found a body in the water, but clinging to the ladder. Normally you would expect a floater, but clinging to a ladder is unusual which was the first thing that made me continue on with the book.
McKenzie is quickly involved in solving the mystery of the drowned man. He finds himself in danger which appears to be a common thread throughout the series based on the conversation between him and his wife.
This story moves quickly and is told from McKenzie's point of view. The reader is given insight as to how his mind works while working the mystery in addition to a lot of sarcasm and dry wit which is entertaining. There are a lot of characters which might be regulars based on the relationships.
The author appears to have a good understanding police, FBI, and insurance investigations. This information was not glossed over and was informative. I also like to read series that are based in the Midwest as it often feels as an untapped market.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book and likely the series. Generally, I prefer to start a series at the beginning, but that was not the case for me this time. I read the description and thought it sounded like a good fit. I am very glad to have found this one. Hoping to read more in the future,
June 2, 2024
Rushmore McKenzie, where have you been all my life? When I got this book, I had no idea that it was a series, and Man in the Water was the 21st and last installment. So now, I finally met McKenzie and really like him.
A retired Twin Cities cop, McKenzie is planning a relaxing weekend with his wife on his friends’ boat on the river. Arriving at the marina, they have an encounter with a woman who is asking them for help with finding her husband. It doesn’t take long until they find him, dead in the water. Soon after, the new widow is suing the insurance companies who refuse to pay out the dead husband’s life insurances and claim he committed suicide. The widow is convinced that it was an accident, and his daughter has yet another idea. She solicits McKenzie’s help to find out what really happened to her late father. Only a few weeks later, she changes her mind.
I really liked that the story is told in the first person POV. McKenzie is quite a character. He is cynical with a sense of humor. Was he not so likable, I’d probably call him annoying. He doesn’t take no for an answer and only listens to his ‘inner voice’ (which is hilarious by the way).
This book is a fast paced thriller which even picks up speed at the very end. The writing style is fluid and entertaining. I will definitely look for the previous installments of the series and can’t wait to read more about Rushmore McKenzie! A solid 4* read for me.
I would like to thank Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read the advance copy in exchange for my honest review and personal opinion.
A retired Twin Cities cop, McKenzie is planning a relaxing weekend with his wife on his friends’ boat on the river. Arriving at the marina, they have an encounter with a woman who is asking them for help with finding her husband. It doesn’t take long until they find him, dead in the water. Soon after, the new widow is suing the insurance companies who refuse to pay out the dead husband’s life insurances and claim he committed suicide. The widow is convinced that it was an accident, and his daughter has yet another idea. She solicits McKenzie’s help to find out what really happened to her late father. Only a few weeks later, she changes her mind.
I really liked that the story is told in the first person POV. McKenzie is quite a character. He is cynical with a sense of humor. Was he not so likable, I’d probably call him annoying. He doesn’t take no for an answer and only listens to his ‘inner voice’ (which is hilarious by the way).
This book is a fast paced thriller which even picks up speed at the very end. The writing style is fluid and entertaining. I will definitely look for the previous installments of the series and can’t wait to read more about Rushmore McKenzie! A solid 4* read for me.
I would like to thank Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read the advance copy in exchange for my honest review and personal opinion.
September 10, 2024
This was a good solid read about Rushmore McKenzie who used to be a police officer until he came into a large sum of money and decided to retire. He's now married and he occasionally investigates cases of murder and mayhem.
He and his wife, Nina, are at a marina and hoping to enjoy the first boat day of the season with their friends. While making their way to the boat, they encounter a woman, Elizabeth Woods, who is a bit frantic as her husband seems to be missing and she wants their help to find him. So they search and unfortunately Nina does find him, floating near the ladder on one of the docks. Thus begins the case of the man in the water.
There are police investigations and insurance investigations comingling, and even though McKenzie and Nina are witnesses, she wants him to also investigate. Currently, it's an unexplained death but with several life insurance policies that have Double Indemnity (DI) clauses, it's in Elizabeth's interests for the death to be accidental and not suicide. The underlying insurance policies will pay off but the DI payments won't be made if it's ruled suicide.
Along with Nina, the dead man's daughter, Neveah, also would like McKenzie to investigate because she believes he was murdered.
This was an easy read and to be honest, the parts I most enjoyed were when he was having internal dialogues. I don't know why they struck me as they did, but I chuckled each time.
McKenzie is a smart, diligent, thorough investigator who can take care of himself and those around him. I enjoyed this book and look for new entries in the future.
He and his wife, Nina, are at a marina and hoping to enjoy the first boat day of the season with their friends. While making their way to the boat, they encounter a woman, Elizabeth Woods, who is a bit frantic as her husband seems to be missing and she wants their help to find him. So they search and unfortunately Nina does find him, floating near the ladder on one of the docks. Thus begins the case of the man in the water.
There are police investigations and insurance investigations comingling, and even though McKenzie and Nina are witnesses, she wants him to also investigate. Currently, it's an unexplained death but with several life insurance policies that have Double Indemnity (DI) clauses, it's in Elizabeth's interests for the death to be accidental and not suicide. The underlying insurance policies will pay off but the DI payments won't be made if it's ruled suicide.
Along with Nina, the dead man's daughter, Neveah, also would like McKenzie to investigate because she believes he was murdered.
This was an easy read and to be honest, the parts I most enjoyed were when he was having internal dialogues. I don't know why they struck me as they did, but I chuckled each time.
McKenzie is a smart, diligent, thorough investigator who can take care of himself and those around him. I enjoyed this book and look for new entries in the future.
September 4, 2024
Man in the Water is a mystery novel that draws readers into a web of multiple murders, each more complex than the last. The book delivers a suspenseful journey as the protagonist works to unravel the various threads of the case. Overall, it's a good read for fans of the genre, though it comes with a few challenges.
The story is filled with twists and turns, which can be both engaging and, at times, overwhelming. I found myself struggling to keep up with the rapid developments in the plot. While the ending does a commendable job of tying up loose ends, the introduction of a new character late in the story felt somewhat jarring. This character's role in the plot was difficult to place, leaving me puzzled about how they fit into the broader narrative.
There were moments where I felt a bit disoriented as I navigated the story’s twists, and a bit more organization could have helped to clarify the plot. Additionally, more detail in certain areas would have enhanced the overall reading experience, making the story more cohesive and easier to follow.
Despite these issues, Man in the Water is an enjoyable read. It keeps you on your toes, and the mystery at its core is intriguing enough to keep you turning the pages. Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC copy of this book.
June 27, 2025
Man in the Water by David Housewright
This was book 21 in a series, so I was a little nervous going into it, especially since I hadn’t had time to read the first 20 before reading this one.
However, David Housewright did a fantastic job incorporating enough backstory to make the story easy to follow. I really enjoyed this book and want to read the other books in the series.
McKenzie is a likable character. He is easygoing, calm, and smart. I enjoyed his attitude and personality. I found him charismatic, and he was a great leading character.
This plot was well done. The intrigue kept me engaged, and the storyline was so smooth that I had to keep reading. I also enjoyed that the places in this book are places I’ve been, making the plot feel more real.
The writing was done conversationally. I loved how things flowed and how the previous books were incorporated to keep the timeline easy to follow.
I will have to start at the beginning. I need to know how this began and how we ended up here. The characters are beautifully developed, and the wit and sass are top-tier.
This was my first experience with David Housewright, but it will not be my last. He’s such a gifted storyteller.
Publication date: June 25, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
This was book 21 in a series, so I was a little nervous going into it, especially since I hadn’t had time to read the first 20 before reading this one.
However, David Housewright did a fantastic job incorporating enough backstory to make the story easy to follow. I really enjoyed this book and want to read the other books in the series.
McKenzie is a likable character. He is easygoing, calm, and smart. I enjoyed his attitude and personality. I found him charismatic, and he was a great leading character.
This plot was well done. The intrigue kept me engaged, and the storyline was so smooth that I had to keep reading. I also enjoyed that the places in this book are places I’ve been, making the plot feel more real.
The writing was done conversationally. I loved how things flowed and how the previous books were incorporated to keep the timeline easy to follow.
I will have to start at the beginning. I need to know how this began and how we ended up here. The characters are beautifully developed, and the wit and sass are top-tier.
This was my first experience with David Housewright, but it will not be my last. He’s such a gifted storyteller.
Publication date: June 25, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
June 25, 2024
Former St. Paul cop Rushmore McKenzie and his wife Nina are visiting friends at the lake when Nina sees a dead man in the lake. Although the dead man’s wife is searching for him, her story seems a bit suspicious. McKenzie often ends up involved in situations that end up drawing him into an investigation and this will be no different. When the man’s death is ruled a suicide, he is asked to investigate for the man’s daughter, but this time he is glad that as a witness he can’t really be involved. This has never stopped him from doing so before, but will this time be any different…unofficially of course? When another man seeks his assistance, he offers the advice of his friend and (often needed) attorney. The characters, especially the often humorous and sarcastic McKenzie, makes this one of my all-time favorite series. If you have not read the series, you really should start with the first book, “A Hard Ticket Home” to learn just how McKenzie “earned” his wealth. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
September 30, 2024
Thank you to @minotaur_books for sending me a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Well, I did it again and stumbled my way accidentally into a long-standing series with no idea that it was. This is book #21 in the Mac McKenzie series by this author, and it was a lot of fun. While I did read this book completely out of order, I would say that you can and it will be okay. Sure, it would have been nice getting some more information on McKenzie and his history, but the author did a nice job of laying things out and giving me what I needed to enjoy this story. I enjoyed being immersed right away in an exciting part of the story, it opened with a banger, and I enjoyed It and it didn’t let up from there. This is not quite a police procedural because the main character is no longer a police officer, however he is now an investigator (not for hire) so it has very similar vibes. I really enjoyed the writing style. I found it a lot of fun and very engaging. McKenzie’s sense of humor was a lot of fun and I chuckled quite a few times as I was reading.
Well, I did it again and stumbled my way accidentally into a long-standing series with no idea that it was. This is book #21 in the Mac McKenzie series by this author, and it was a lot of fun. While I did read this book completely out of order, I would say that you can and it will be okay. Sure, it would have been nice getting some more information on McKenzie and his history, but the author did a nice job of laying things out and giving me what I needed to enjoy this story. I enjoyed being immersed right away in an exciting part of the story, it opened with a banger, and I enjoyed It and it didn’t let up from there. This is not quite a police procedural because the main character is no longer a police officer, however he is now an investigator (not for hire) so it has very similar vibes. I really enjoyed the writing style. I found it a lot of fun and very engaging. McKenzie’s sense of humor was a lot of fun and I chuckled quite a few times as I was reading.
July 3, 2025
I was expecting an intriguing thriller, but this was more of a detective procedural. I thought that the murder was wrapped up quickly and conveniently, with the actual mystery driving the story being the factors and circumstances that only connected tangentially to the primary death.
I also found that the main character was bland and condescending, and his perfect life often seemed like a poorly concealed, fever-dream self-insert for the author. The humor was strange and self-serving, and the female characters felt woefully underwritten (especially Barbara Deese). It made my skin crawl that every single woman seemed to be attracted to the narrator, and his description of each woman was crude and jarring, especially because the MC tells us constantly how incredible his wife is. Lastly, the book had some strange moments of conservatism and awkward monologues that seemed to come straight from the author’s mouth.
On the plus side, I appreciated the accurate depiction of the Twin Cities. As a Minnesota transplant, it was fun to picture real locations that I’ve visited.
I also found that the main character was bland and condescending, and his perfect life often seemed like a poorly concealed, fever-dream self-insert for the author. The humor was strange and self-serving, and the female characters felt woefully underwritten (especially Barbara Deese). It made my skin crawl that every single woman seemed to be attracted to the narrator, and his description of each woman was crude and jarring, especially because the MC tells us constantly how incredible his wife is. Lastly, the book had some strange moments of conservatism and awkward monologues that seemed to come straight from the author’s mouth.
On the plus side, I appreciated the accurate depiction of the Twin Cities. As a Minnesota transplant, it was fun to picture real locations that I’ve visited.
July 9, 2024
Book Review: Man in the Water (A Mckenzie Novel)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: David Housewright @davidwhousewright2021
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press @stmartinspress
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC
This is Book 21 of a Mckenzie Novel and even though I have not read the other books, I really enjoyed this book.
Rushmore Mckenzie and his wife Nina, end up I. The middle of a mystery. It seems Nina has found a body of an army veteran in the the lake. The local authorities are calling it a suicide but Nina doesn’t think it is was a suicide, The man’s daughter also does not think it was a suicide and she asks Mac to investigate. There are so many ups and downs in this investigation I’m amazed that Mac can keep up with all of it. Will Mac be able to find out who the killer is or will the death stay as a suicide? The end was just perfect for this book!
I have always loved a good mystery and I have just found new characters to read.
This was a lovely enjoyable book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: David Housewright @davidwhousewright2021
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press @stmartinspress
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC
This is Book 21 of a Mckenzie Novel and even though I have not read the other books, I really enjoyed this book.
Rushmore Mckenzie and his wife Nina, end up I. The middle of a mystery. It seems Nina has found a body of an army veteran in the the lake. The local authorities are calling it a suicide but Nina doesn’t think it is was a suicide, The man’s daughter also does not think it was a suicide and she asks Mac to investigate. There are so many ups and downs in this investigation I’m amazed that Mac can keep up with all of it. Will Mac be able to find out who the killer is or will the death stay as a suicide? The end was just perfect for this book!
I have always loved a good mystery and I have just found new characters to read.
This was a lovely enjoyable book.
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