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Dev Haskell Mystery #33
Suspect Santa
Private Investigator Dev Haskell gets a call from Tubby Gustafson. There’s a car waiting for Dev just outside his office. If he doesn’t want to take the ride, he’ll have to drive himself to the Emergency room. Dev decides whatever he was involved in can wait and is driven to Tubby’s mansion.
Turns out Tubby wants any and all information on east coat mobster Alex Chillcot who’s rumored to be moving into town. The more Dev uncovers, the worse Chillcot looks. Almost immediately the bodies begin to pile up.
In case that isn’t bad enough, Dev’s latest squeeze, Layla, works every year as a sexy elf at Santa’s Workshop. There’s only one problem, Santa turns out to be an obnoxious drunk who frightens children and tells them he won’t come to their house. Dev gets more involved than he planned.
Better get your copy now and see if Dev can save Christmas . . .
Turns out Tubby wants any and all information on east coat mobster Alex Chillcot who’s rumored to be moving into town. The more Dev uncovers, the worse Chillcot looks. Almost immediately the bodies begin to pile up.
In case that isn’t bad enough, Dev’s latest squeeze, Layla, works every year as a sexy elf at Santa’s Workshop. There’s only one problem, Santa turns out to be an obnoxious drunk who frightens children and tells them he won’t come to their house. Dev gets more involved than he planned.
Better get your copy now and see if Dev can save Christmas . . .
336 pages, Paperback
First published November 15, 2022
300 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Mike Faricy
132 books240 followersI was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, I still live there as well as in Dublin, Ireland. I've been a soldier, freelance journalist, tended bar, sold designer cakes, owned a painting and decorating company along with a number of other schemes and scams. If that doesn't offend you I also play bagpipes with the Brian Boru Irish Pipe Band. All my books stand alone, read them in whatever order you wish. They are filled with the sort of oddballs we are all curious about, but wisely, prefer to keep at a distance. None of my characters will be saving the world from terrorism, international banking conspiracies or coups to take over the government. Rather, they inhabit a world just below the surface of polite society, characters with one foot on either side of the law. The circumstances they find themselves in are usually due to bad decisions, but bad decisions lead to interesting stories. They serve not so much as an example but as a warning to us all. Thanks for taking the time, happy reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 30, 2023
Merry Christmas to me!
I thoroughly enjoyed this timely Mike Faricy book!
A PI, his girl, his dog (I'm still not sure if Morton the dog out ranks his girl....), 3 kids needing police protection, mobsters, explosions, a drunk Santa with connections and pork rinds. Lots of pork rinds....
I received a free copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this timely Mike Faricy book!
A PI, his girl, his dog (I'm still not sure if Morton the dog out ranks his girl....), 3 kids needing police protection, mobsters, explosions, a drunk Santa with connections and pork rinds. Lots of pork rinds....
I received a free copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
November 28, 2022
In this story, Dev is asked to gather all the info he can on an Alex Chillcott by the local crime boss, Tubby Gustafson. He is also seeing a woman, Layla who is working as an elf at the Santa's Workshop. When Layla tells Dev about how bad Santa is. Dev investigates that situation too. How Dev has 3 kids and another man's wife staying with him until Christmas Eve and how it ruins yey another relationship for him makes for a Great read. Really enjoyed this one. So sorry Layla didn't believe Dev. Best of the series so far.
December 2, 2022
Tubby Gustafson, Minneapolis crime lord (I always envision him as Pizza the Hut from Spaceballs) seeks information from PI Dev Haskell on an East Coast mafioso who is coming to town and anticipated to upset the local crime applecart. Dev’s choices are get in the waiting car to receive his assignment from Tubby, or drive himself to the local emergency room. Discretion being the better part of valor, he takes the ride. The more Dev uncovers, the worse the new guy looks, and Dev can’t see anything good coming out of the move for anyone, himself included.
As always, Dev is a treat to spend time with. In addition to doing Tubby’s bidding, Dev is trying to help his current squeeze, Layla, corral a corrupt, drunken, and politically connected Santa who’s ruining Christmas for untold numbers of Minneapolis children. He also comes to the aid of some young kids whose parents are killed in the fallout of the new crime lord coming to town.
These books are always fun. The writing is fast paced, the dialogue witty, and the plots fun. I particularly like this one because it’s topical, and nice to see Dev trying to do right by the kids. He’s a bit of a goof, unwittingly stepping on just about everyone’s toes, but he’s got a good heart and he wants to do right. I’ve enjoyed watching Dev smooth out his rough edges over the years. He gets a little more likeable with each book.
These can easily be read out of order. The author provides enough backstory to allow the reader to keep up, but not feel overwhelmed. You get a sense Dev has a past, but you don’t get bogged down by the details. If you like traditional PI novels, I recommend the Dev Haskell books. Quick, fun, satisfying reads. If you like Carl Hiaasen, Tim Dorsey, Elmore Leonard, Laurence Shames, or Janet Evanovich, give Faricy – and Dev – a try.
As always, Dev is a treat to spend time with. In addition to doing Tubby’s bidding, Dev is trying to help his current squeeze, Layla, corral a corrupt, drunken, and politically connected Santa who’s ruining Christmas for untold numbers of Minneapolis children. He also comes to the aid of some young kids whose parents are killed in the fallout of the new crime lord coming to town.
These books are always fun. The writing is fast paced, the dialogue witty, and the plots fun. I particularly like this one because it’s topical, and nice to see Dev trying to do right by the kids. He’s a bit of a goof, unwittingly stepping on just about everyone’s toes, but he’s got a good heart and he wants to do right. I’ve enjoyed watching Dev smooth out his rough edges over the years. He gets a little more likeable with each book.
These can easily be read out of order. The author provides enough backstory to allow the reader to keep up, but not feel overwhelmed. You get a sense Dev has a past, but you don’t get bogged down by the details. If you like traditional PI novels, I recommend the Dev Haskell books. Quick, fun, satisfying reads. If you like Carl Hiaasen, Tim Dorsey, Elmore Leonard, Laurence Shames, or Janet Evanovich, give Faricy – and Dev – a try.
December 14, 2022
Suspect Santa, Dev Haskell Mystery, Book #33
By Mike Faricy
This entry in the Dev Haskell mysteries was a delightful Christmas romp. Yes, after 32 previous outings, Dev is still cashing skirts, and still clueless, or maybe just luckless when in comes to personnel relationships. In this episode Dev is investigating a mobster who us purported to be moving to his Minnesota home town. He was hired to do so by the local gangster, Tubby Gustafson, and, as usual, doubling up by reporting his findings to the police. In neither case does he end up being paid. So how does our favorite P.I. screw up end up dating a gorgeous Santa's elf, playing Santa at the mall, all while hiding 3 orphans, a policeman's wife and two Special Investigations officers in his house?
This novel was well plotted and paced, full of action, danger, and humor. It was perfectly edited and proofed. The plot was complex, yet understandable, and the characters relatable. There was no cliffhanger ending! It also fit in perfectly with my annual month of reading only Christmas themed novels, novellas and or short stories.
In fact, I made only one note, and have only two questions. The note was to highlight a minor character's name: Michael Morelli, a gangster from New Jersey. I wondered, could be be related to Joe Morelli -- Stephanie Plum's boyfriend, who is also from New Jersey. In any case, it made me smile.
My two questions are:
1. Was Dev's love interest, Layla, a party to the intrigue? At one point he confides information to her that only Tubby or the police should know.
2. After that her interest in Dev seems to wane. In fact, she disappears from the last portion of the book, with no explanation of why.
Overall I obviously enjoyed the book, and I've enjoyed the series as well.
By Mike Faricy
This entry in the Dev Haskell mysteries was a delightful Christmas romp. Yes, after 32 previous outings, Dev is still cashing skirts, and still clueless, or maybe just luckless when in comes to personnel relationships. In this episode Dev is investigating a mobster who us purported to be moving to his Minnesota home town. He was hired to do so by the local gangster, Tubby Gustafson, and, as usual, doubling up by reporting his findings to the police. In neither case does he end up being paid. So how does our favorite P.I. screw up end up dating a gorgeous Santa's elf, playing Santa at the mall, all while hiding 3 orphans, a policeman's wife and two Special Investigations officers in his house?
This novel was well plotted and paced, full of action, danger, and humor. It was perfectly edited and proofed. The plot was complex, yet understandable, and the characters relatable. There was no cliffhanger ending! It also fit in perfectly with my annual month of reading only Christmas themed novels, novellas and or short stories.
In fact, I made only one note, and have only two questions. The note was to highlight a minor character's name: Michael Morelli, a gangster from New Jersey. I wondered, could be be related to Joe Morelli -- Stephanie Plum's boyfriend, who is also from New Jersey. In any case, it made me smile.
My two questions are:
1. Was Dev's love interest, Layla, a party to the intrigue? At one point he confides information to her that only Tubby or the police should know.
2. After that her interest in Dev seems to wane. In fact, she disappears from the last portion of the book, with no explanation of why.
Overall I obviously enjoyed the book, and I've enjoyed the series as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2022
Prolific and entertaining mystery writer Mike Faricy has done it again with Suspect Santa, just in time for the holidays. You'll like this well-written and movie-like mystery.
This time out, Dev Haskell, our hero, is asked to supply background information to Tubby Gustafson, the local bad guy. Tubby has demanded that Dev find background information on an east coast mafioso who is planning to move to the Twin Cities. Murders, romantic hijinks, and entertaining dialogue make this mystery a fun read.
Faricy continues to entertain using many of the same characters and similar plot lines; however, each
entry into this long-running series is unique and has its own thoroughly entertaining qualities that will captivate the reader until the last page.
Faricy is a talented, veteran mystery writer with a long and fascinating backlist that will entertain readers for the foreseeable future. Check out his other series and stand-alone novels; most assuredly, you will have a merry holiday season.
This time out, Dev Haskell, our hero, is asked to supply background information to Tubby Gustafson, the local bad guy. Tubby has demanded that Dev find background information on an east coast mafioso who is planning to move to the Twin Cities. Murders, romantic hijinks, and entertaining dialogue make this mystery a fun read.
Faricy continues to entertain using many of the same characters and similar plot lines; however, each
entry into this long-running series is unique and has its own thoroughly entertaining qualities that will captivate the reader until the last page.
Faricy is a talented, veteran mystery writer with a long and fascinating backlist that will entertain readers for the foreseeable future. Check out his other series and stand-alone novels; most assuredly, you will have a merry holiday season.
November 17, 2022
If you have been reading the Dev Haskell series, you know this is a first; Tubby being nice to Dev. Tubby gives him a name and wants to know all there is to know about him. Piece of cake, for Dev, anyway. Turns out the guy is Eastern mob and moving his business to St. Paul. No wonder Tubby wants to know about him. Since Tubby is still around at the end, you can draw your own conclusions. Meanwhile, Dev's social life is certainly interesting. His current girlfriend, Layla, is Santa's Elf at Santa's Workshop. Problem is, Santa is a loud, obnoxious and rude drunk, who also has a high profile sister. Even Dev won't put up with the sadness he gives the children. Not enough action? The police want Dev's help. An FBI agent and his wife are murdered and left 3 children. They want Dev to protect them during the investigation. As always With the Dev Haskell books, this was a thoroughly entertaining read.
March 20, 2023
I've read the entire series, so far, and the best books in the Dev Haskell - Private Investigator series, at least in my humble opinion, are the ones that involve kids. Every one of them has brought tears to my eyes… heck, tears running down my cheeks as I read them. I am absolutely convinced that Dev is a good guy with a mostly undeserved bad boy image that stems from a long line of bossy, demanding girlfriends who blame him for things beyond his control. All of them seem to do this and then tell him to never darken their proverbial doorstep again… EVER! His Santa's elf girlfriend, in SUSPECT SANTA, is far less obnoxious than some of them have been.
The Christmas season should be a time of celebration and joy, but the Santa sitting in the big chair at Santa’s Workshop is all bah humbug. Dev finds this out from Layla, Dev's current squeeze du jour, who works at said workshop as Santa's Elf.
Tubby Gustafson is upset because it seems like a new mobster is moving into his St. Paul territory. Of course, that means Dev gets a call. Then the killings start, and all are put on high alert.
As is usually the case, there are several plot lines to follow, an array of criminals, police, and Dev's circle of associates. The days leading up to Christmas are dark indeed. Will Dev and company be able to bring a ray of starlight into everyone's lives?
If you've been reading this series, you are familiar with folks like Louie Laufen, Dev's office mate; Mike, the bartender at The Spot; Detective Norris Manning, the cop who really doesn't like Dev; Lt. Aaron LaZelle, Norris Manning's boss and Dev's long-time friend; and, of course, Morton, Dev's dog. Tubby Gustafson and Fat Freddy Zimmerman, the resident criminals, round out the usual cast of characters. These names not ringing a bell? I suggest you start with the first book in the series, RUSSIAN ROULETTE, and binge your way to the end. (For now, the end is this book, SUSPECT SANTA, but there will surely be more to follow.)
The Christmas season should be a time of celebration and joy, but the Santa sitting in the big chair at Santa’s Workshop is all bah humbug. Dev finds this out from Layla, Dev's current squeeze du jour, who works at said workshop as Santa's Elf.
Tubby Gustafson is upset because it seems like a new mobster is moving into his St. Paul territory. Of course, that means Dev gets a call. Then the killings start, and all are put on high alert.
As is usually the case, there are several plot lines to follow, an array of criminals, police, and Dev's circle of associates. The days leading up to Christmas are dark indeed. Will Dev and company be able to bring a ray of starlight into everyone's lives?
If you've been reading this series, you are familiar with folks like Louie Laufen, Dev's office mate; Mike, the bartender at The Spot; Detective Norris Manning, the cop who really doesn't like Dev; Lt. Aaron LaZelle, Norris Manning's boss and Dev's long-time friend; and, of course, Morton, Dev's dog. Tubby Gustafson and Fat Freddy Zimmerman, the resident criminals, round out the usual cast of characters. These names not ringing a bell? I suggest you start with the first book in the series, RUSSIAN ROULETTE, and binge your way to the end. (For now, the end is this book, SUSPECT SANTA, but there will surely be more to follow.)
December 14, 2025
Suspect Santa delivers Mike Faricy’s signature blend of sharp humor, fast-paced action, and character-driven charm. Dev Haskell once again proves to be an endlessly entertaining protagonist whose missteps, instincts, and wit keep the story moving with addictive energy. Faricy’s writing balances crime, chaos, and comedy with effortless ease, making this entry especially fun for fans who enjoy mysteries that don’t take themselves too seriously. The world feels lived-in, the supporting cast memorable, and the unfolding trouble both unpredictable and satisfying. It’s a light, clever, and engaging read that showcases why the Dev Haskell series has such enduring appeal.
November 17, 2022
Another fantastic book by Mike Faricy!
Dev is summoned to Tubby's place where Tubby asks him to find out everything he can on a mobster supposedly moving to the twin cities.
Dev's latest lady friend works as an elf for a Santa Clause who is always drunk and mean to the kids so he does some investigative work on the tipsy head elf.
I love all of this author's books and I always enjoy the storylines and characters.
Dev is summoned to Tubby's place where Tubby asks him to find out everything he can on a mobster supposedly moving to the twin cities.
Dev's latest lady friend works as an elf for a Santa Clause who is always drunk and mean to the kids so he does some investigative work on the tipsy head elf.
I love all of this author's books and I always enjoy the storylines and characters.
December 8, 2022
Haskell and Dillon I'm the same book
Oh, there is nothing to dislike about this book. Haskell is my mentor. Dillon is, as always, entertaining. Since I'm half Irish, I can relate. Looked up Temple Bar, and there really is such a place. Please read this book and you'll never put it down. Thanks Mike
Oh, there is nothing to dislike about this book. Haskell is my mentor. Dillon is, as always, entertaining. Since I'm half Irish, I can relate. Looked up Temple Bar, and there really is such a place. Please read this book and you'll never put it down. Thanks Mike
May 11, 2025
Dev shows a bit of his soft side in this one. But like always it's a page turner. The author keeps us guessing at what strange turn comes next. Dev is the perfect imperfect hero. Not always honest but in the end he comes through and most importantly he's not all about the money. He's about setting things aright.
January 8, 2023
Lively and sharp
The dialogue is crisp, sharp and clear. The characters are real and likeable. Dev Haskell plays the “devil may care” PI with a heart of gold. Lots of tension, and realistic action. This series is addicting.
The dialogue is crisp, sharp and clear. The characters are real and likeable. Dev Haskell plays the “devil may care” PI with a heart of gold. Lots of tension, and realistic action. This series is addicting.
September 27, 2023
Haskell has a heart.
I've read most of the books in this series. All of the reoccurring characters keep the stories interesting but this one had a twist. Dev Haskell actually has a heart.
I've read most of the books in this series. All of the reoccurring characters keep the stories interesting but this one had a twist. Dev Haskell actually has a heart.
February 14, 2024
Suspect Santa
Dev Haskell never lets you down in a PI story. Always great characters and storylines. Who would ever guess about Dev,s association with Santa? A fantastic read, a definite must read. A+++
Dev Haskell never lets you down in a PI story. Always great characters and storylines. Who would ever guess about Dev,s association with Santa? A fantastic read, a definite must read. A+++
December 22, 2024
It was a really good book! A private detective is strong armed by the main crime boss in the area to find out information on a mob boss coming from the east coast. He gets put in the middle and people try to take him out and he losses his girlfriend in the mess.
November 17, 2022
Sometimes chilling, sometimes scary, but always witty and engaging. Dev, Morton, and Louie charm while Tubby and Fat Freddy add to the laughs. An all around triumph.
Highly Recommended.
Highly Recommended.
November 20, 2022
Mildly entertaining. Repetitive descriptions. Slow pace.
December 13, 2022
Santa Haskell
Delightful story of Dev Haskell, Morton, the police, a bunch of bad guys and three sweet children. Nice Christmas read but equally good for any time.
Delightful story of Dev Haskell, Morton, the police, a bunch of bad guys and three sweet children. Nice Christmas read but equally good for any time.
December 17, 2022
Fun book to read!
Finally! … a main character who doesn’t have a drinking problem, relationship issues and gets along with the police! Thank you!
Finally! … a main character who doesn’t have a drinking problem, relationship issues and gets along with the police! Thank you!
December 18, 2022
We don’t need a Santa who drinks like that one, do we??? Thank you for the Adoption of the Hogan children!!! I enjoyed this story and recommend the book AND Merry Christmas to all!!!
December 18, 2022
Best yet
A seasonal tale full of fun and mystery. Dev is by far my favourite PI. A very well written story with a real festive feel to it.
A seasonal tale full of fun and mystery. Dev is by far my favourite PI. A very well written story with a real festive feel to it.
December 19, 2022
Entertaining
Things get crazy when Santa is a scary drunk and a notorious mobster is coming to town to live. Crimes, especially murders are increasing. What will happen next?
Things get crazy when Santa is a scary drunk and a notorious mobster is coming to town to live. Crimes, especially murders are increasing. What will happen next?
February 16, 2023
An entertaining read and with our hero, Dev Haskell, helping with a nasty Santa problem and orphaned children.
July 17, 2023
A great mystery with a unique characters! Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2024
Really a great cozy mystery! It had me from the first page to the last!
December 30, 2024
Good book
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel. I really enjoyed reading this novel very much. ShelleyMa
You people should just read this novel yourselves and write your own review on this novel. I really enjoyed reading this novel very much. ShelleyMa
January 29, 2025
Well Dev saved the day again and made all the little kids happy playing Santa.
And to top it all off, he was able to stay on the good side of Tubby.
And to top it all off, he was able to stay on the good side of Tubby.
December 19, 2025
I loved this book. It is full of Christmas cheer and good will towards men.
November 29, 2022
So glad I skipped ahead and read this one just as the holidays loom. Dev is finally getting a bit of professional respect from both sides of the law! I kept expecting the need for his Santa Claus gig, and he nailed it. A soft heart and layers of care under the bumbling exterior presented to the world. May 2023 bring more adventures and maybe some type of compensation for all the grief he’s endured dealing with Tubby. Bravo to Mike Faricy for this action-packed series.
February 4, 2023
Suspect Santa was one of the top Dev Haskell mysteries I have had the enjoyment of reading. Dev has a new girl friend who is a volunteer Santa's elf and the Santa she works with is drinking on the job. Dev helps by gathering evidence on this bad Santa but this is just one of the side plots that Dev deals with. He also gatherers information for a local gangster and also opens his home to small children and local police. I found Suspect Santa darker but loved it as it had very heart warming parts. This story confirmed what I already know, is that Dev has a great heart and is a good person.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews