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Mackenzie August #13
Old Guns
Everyone knows Mackenzie August doesn’t take on trainees. The work is personal and often dangerous. But when Edgar Betts comes knocking, Mackenzie is forced to reconsider.
Mackenzie owes Edgar, and Edgar’s pleads with him, father to father. His son Elijah lost his PI license, which he never should have received in the first place. Elijah plans to get the license back and continue his career, but he’s a young gun too foolish to survive. Please, the father begs, help my boy. Teach him, train him.
Little do either of the men know, Elijah is already in trouble, far worse than they could imagine.
Mackenzie owes Edgar, and Edgar’s pleads with him, father to father. His son Elijah lost his PI license, which he never should have received in the first place. Elijah plans to get the license back and continue his career, but he’s a young gun too foolish to survive. Please, the father begs, help my boy. Teach him, train him.
Little do either of the men know, Elijah is already in trouble, far worse than they could imagine.
- GenresMystery
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2024
About the author
Alan Lee
39 books300 followersYour favorite mystery author for the next twenty years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
July 12, 2024
I'm not sure how I can describe how much I'm enjoying these books about these people who form a big, loving family who all have each other's backs, always - no matter what. I'm sure if the books were put together and made into a TV series they'd be a huge success. Baby Kix has all the adult love and attention any child could want, and even though he still hasn't started kindergarten at least halfway through his third year, when he goes to school and the parents of other kids know his parents are MacKenzie August and Ronnie Summers and he lives with his uncle, Marshall Manny Martinez and Sheriff Stackhouse, not only will be never have to worry about bullies, he'll be the most popular boy everywhere he goes! Just finished this MacKenzie adventure and can't wait for the next one - or the promised next instalment in the Stackhouse story - or the next Sinatra and Beck adventure! Also, Georgina Princess is a very lucky dog, having been adopted into this crazy household!
July 13, 2024
With this 13th book, the series has eclipsed itself!
Wow. I just finished this book and what a read! The characters come even more alive (how is that even possible?) and the troubles and turmoil of the human condition are brilliantly woven into a deep but often light, rich and crazy tale with so many surprises, twists and turns, it's rather breathtaking.
I read some excellent writers, but Alan Lee has just set the bar at a dizzying height. All I can say is, he has to keep writing, because we won't be satisfied until we have more, and more and more. I'm totally addicted. Can't wait to see what happens next. What a world is the Mackenzie August/Manny realm, and so much fun to be immersed in.
Here's wishing Alan Lee immortality.
Wow. I just finished this book and what a read! The characters come even more alive (how is that even possible?) and the troubles and turmoil of the human condition are brilliantly woven into a deep but often light, rich and crazy tale with so many surprises, twists and turns, it's rather breathtaking.
I read some excellent writers, but Alan Lee has just set the bar at a dizzying height. All I can say is, he has to keep writing, because we won't be satisfied until we have more, and more and more. I'm totally addicted. Can't wait to see what happens next. What a world is the Mackenzie August/Manny realm, and so much fun to be immersed in.
Here's wishing Alan Lee immortality.
August 1, 2024
Great read!
This MacKenzie August book is one that will keep you guessing "who done it" until the very end. MacKenzie, against his better judgment, decides to train the son of an acquaintance who says he will pay him a lot of money, and MacKenzie wants something else for payment other than money. They strike a deal. This young man, Elijah, is not interested in doing what MacKenzie tells him. He just wants a PI license fast so he can make a lot of money! Someone puts a contract out on Elijah, and MacKenzie is baffled until the end about who and why. Their adventures are at times hilarious and, at times, very dangerous. I really do enjoy reading this series.
This MacKenzie August book is one that will keep you guessing "who done it" until the very end. MacKenzie, against his better judgment, decides to train the son of an acquaintance who says he will pay him a lot of money, and MacKenzie wants something else for payment other than money. They strike a deal. This young man, Elijah, is not interested in doing what MacKenzie tells him. He just wants a PI license fast so he can make a lot of money! Someone puts a contract out on Elijah, and MacKenzie is baffled until the end about who and why. Their adventures are at times hilarious and, at times, very dangerous. I really do enjoy reading this series.
July 5, 2024
Old guns never misfires!
After 13 August novels and nearly thirty books in this universe, Alan Lee is still able to deliver a surprising, clever story! Yes, the plot was good, the action was great and laced with plenty of humor. However, the real gold is in the love he has for these characters. I swear, I feel like I could go to Roanoke and accidentally run into Mack, Manny or Stackhouse! Their family dialogue, dynamic has been earned over the last several years and that's why I keep coming back.
After 13 August novels and nearly thirty books in this universe, Alan Lee is still able to deliver a surprising, clever story! Yes, the plot was good, the action was great and laced with plenty of humor. However, the real gold is in the love he has for these characters. I swear, I feel like I could go to Roanoke and accidentally run into Mack, Manny or Stackhouse! Their family dialogue, dynamic has been earned over the last several years and that's why I keep coming back.
July 7, 2024
Brilliant (as always)
Love how the author takes practical real world problems, (today's lack of home training) and manages to teach a lesson within the bounds of a really fun thrill ride mystery.
The August Universe is vastly growing, but the characters are especially vivid and take on a well defined history. How Alan Lee keeps all these histories straight is amazing, but it keeps things very real.. Read this in 24 hours. Could not put it down. Congratulations Alan, well done.
Love how the author takes practical real world problems, (today's lack of home training) and manages to teach a lesson within the bounds of a really fun thrill ride mystery.
The August Universe is vastly growing, but the characters are especially vivid and take on a well defined history. How Alan Lee keeps all these histories straight is amazing, but it keeps things very real.. Read this in 24 hours. Could not put it down. Congratulations Alan, well done.
July 9, 2024
If I had the vocabulary
If I had the vocabulary to express how much I love the Mackenzie August series I would do so. Since I do not, suffice to say this series is a must read, can’t put down, hold your breath, laugh out loud experience. Start anywhere and read forward or backward, you won’t be sorry. The best may be the just released Old Guns. Please keep Mackenzie August alive, well and published often. The world needs him and the whole cast of characters. But write fast, I am old!
If I had the vocabulary to express how much I love the Mackenzie August series I would do so. Since I do not, suffice to say this series is a must read, can’t put down, hold your breath, laugh out loud experience. Start anywhere and read forward or backward, you won’t be sorry. The best may be the just released Old Guns. Please keep Mackenzie August alive, well and published often. The world needs him and the whole cast of characters. But write fast, I am old!
September 23, 2024
I found this author on Amazon. I was so impressed with the first McKenzie August Book that I bought all 14 and read them. I find them extremely joyful with a lot of action and yet a lot of good tips on living a fruitful life. Mr. Lee has an amazing vocabulary and a wonderful sense of humor. This entire series has lots of action and really complicated thriller mysteries. I’m going to read another series called Sinatra written about Mack’s Buddy Manny. I highly recommend this series on this author
July 29, 2024
As always Mackenzie August is in trouble and he doesn't know why--yet! Follow Mackenzie as he bludgeons his way through the investigation. Mistakes are made, a surprise visit from Mackenzie's dark past makes an appearance, and punishment is delivered. A talented PI, a gifted lawyer, a school principal, a sheriff, a Deputy Marshall, and an NSA analyst team up to drive the bad guys back into hiding and leave their town in peace--until the next time!
Great story!
Great story!
June 25, 2025
WOW SO IMPRESSED READ BOOK 1 THRU 13
I could not put these books down from starting at Book 1. The characterization was so inviting, even Kix. The family, the talks about the meaning of life, the preaching, and of course the storyline of MACKENZIE AUGUST, PI. The humor was rich, and combining that with love, drama,chaos, and family dynamics made this a big, quick, intense, and great read all the way from 1 thru 13. I will read every book by Alan Lee.
I could not put these books down from starting at Book 1. The characterization was so inviting, even Kix. The family, the talks about the meaning of life, the preaching, and of course the storyline of MACKENZIE AUGUST, PI. The humor was rich, and combining that with love, drama,chaos, and family dynamics made this a big, quick, intense, and great read all the way from 1 thru 13. I will read every book by Alan Lee.
July 3, 2024
Old Guns
This series just keeps getting better. The characters are developed wonderfully. They are all real people with real personalities, thoughts, and emotions. The good guys are good and the bad guys are bad. It was good to see Elijah grow up. Plenty of action and suspense. The entire series, not just this story is highly recommended.
This series just keeps getting better. The characters are developed wonderfully. They are all real people with real personalities, thoughts, and emotions. The good guys are good and the bad guys are bad. It was good to see Elijah grow up. Plenty of action and suspense. The entire series, not just this story is highly recommended.
July 4, 2024
Excellent!
As always! After reading this book, I read the recap of all books and that makes me want to go back and READ THEM ALL AGAIN! I adore Alan Lee and I agree - keep Kix young - it’s so much funnier! Kudos Alan Lee - started this book last night, slept and finished this morning!
As always! After reading this book, I read the recap of all books and that makes me want to go back and READ THEM ALL AGAIN! I adore Alan Lee and I agree - keep Kix young - it’s so much funnier! Kudos Alan Lee - started this book last night, slept and finished this morning!
July 4, 2024
Everything we have come to expect from Alan Lee. McKenzie August is still witty and entertaining. I laughed out loud about 20 times! However, I was disappointed that with lives at stake, he didn't take more control of the situation. Didn't want to put any spoilers out there, because even saying that, I love every main character in these books.
July 9, 2024
truth about the next generation
Mackenzie’s thoughts on the younger generation and the parents and even grandparents indulging is right on. But I do not blame the next generation. We need to wake up though. I am a believer and don’t like some of the language but I do appreciate that this world needs help especially families. And I enjoy your books.
Mackenzie’s thoughts on the younger generation and the parents and even grandparents indulging is right on. But I do not blame the next generation. We need to wake up though. I am a believer and don’t like some of the language but I do appreciate that this world needs help especially families. And I enjoy your books.
July 17, 2024
I laughed out loud at parts of this book, but I did not enjoy it as much as the other books in the series. I felt that it dragged and that the plot was just not that interesting. Who cares about a spoiled, immature, entitled kid ? I don’t. That said, I really like the interaction among the various “family” members.
July 17, 2024
After 13 books in his Makenzie August series, Alan Lee succeeds in keeping his stories fresh and original
It’s no easy task to write a lengthy series with a stable collection of characters and keep it fresh and engaging, but somehow Alan Lee manages to do this book after book with both gripping stories and the continuing development of the main characters and their relationships.
It’s no easy task to write a lengthy series with a stable collection of characters and keep it fresh and engaging, but somehow Alan Lee manages to do this book after book with both gripping stories and the continuing development of the main characters and their relationships.
September 12, 2024
Never disappoints
These stories just keep adding layers and layers to the August/Sinatra/Stackhouse legends and the are entertaining as hell. Looking forward to reading more about each character whether together (as it seems they are bound to each other) or separately because I KNOW its gonna be good
These stories just keep adding layers and layers to the August/Sinatra/Stackhouse legends and the are entertaining as hell. Looking forward to reading more about each character whether together (as it seems they are bound to each other) or separately because I KNOW its gonna be good
November 8, 2024
AT FIRST, I FELT SORRY FOR ELIJAH BECAUSE HE HAD SUCH A PISS POOR UPBRINGING. THEN I STARTED TO REALLY DISLIKE HIM HE WAS SO MUCH LIKE MOST OF THE YOUTH OF TODAY.JUST PLAIN LAZY & STUPID THEIR PARENTS SHOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN ALLOWED TO REPRODUCE. THIS WAS GREAT AS ALWAYS MR. LEE I LOVED IT YOU ARE THE GREATEST. ;D HOPE YOU'RE WORKING ON #14.
November 11, 2024
Mackenzie August finds himself babysitting an immature young adult who knows nothing about growing up. He agrees to help Elijah train as a private investigator and finds himself caught in the contract on Elijah's head. Nothing he does convinces the parents to make Elijah grow up and accept responsibility.
He does come out of the deal with a bazooka
He does come out of the deal with a bazooka
December 14, 2024
Another great book from this author. The story starts fast and keeps the reader guessing and reading. The main characters each have their own series of books and they are all great. I have read all of them and each series should be read in order but, you can start with any of the series to get started. I can’t wait for the next book in any of the series.
July 5, 2024
Perfection
There is not one single Alan Lee book that disappoints. Each book, in all three series, are a delight to read. Bonus points for always learning at least one new vocabulary word!
There is not one single Alan Lee book that disappoints. Each book, in all three series, are a delight to read. Bonus points for always learning at least one new vocabulary word!
July 6, 2024
Old guns
Read it in one day. Write fAster. I read slot of books. When ever any of your books become available its like CHRISTMAS. morning. Keep up the great work. Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!!
Read it in one day. Write fAster. I read slot of books. When ever any of your books become available its like CHRISTMAS. morning. Keep up the great work. Thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!!
July 6, 2024
Fabulous
I have read all the Alan Lee novels. Old Guns is the best book yet. I read the entire novel in two days simply because I could hardly put the book down.
Already one of my favorite authors, Alan Lee keeps improving his skills. Bravo!
I have read all the Alan Lee novels. Old Guns is the best book yet. I read the entire novel in two days simply because I could hardly put the book down.
Already one of my favorite authors, Alan Lee keeps improving his skills. Bravo!
July 6, 2024
I love all these books
Alan Lee has captured all my attention with there books. I have read all and hope to read many more. Please continue the adventures of Sinatra and all his pals.
Alan Lee has captured all my attention with there books. I have read all and hope to read many more. Please continue the adventures of Sinatra and all his pals.
July 6, 2024
Old Guns New Story
Another great story in the saga of Mackenzie and crew. Alan Lee never disappoints. He gets your interest from the start to the finish. As usual I look forward to the next episode in this saga.You know in advance that you will not be let down.
Another great story in the saga of Mackenzie and crew. Alan Lee never disappoints. He gets your interest from the start to the finish. As usual I look forward to the next episode in this saga.You know in advance that you will not be let down.
July 7, 2024
I love the August books. Very quick and enjoyable reads. Love the humor and the action. Great mix of both. Just wish I wasn’t caught up with all of Alan Lee books as I can’t put them down.
Love Kix and his snide remarks 😀😂
Love Kix and his snide remarks 😀😂
July 7, 2024
And the fun continues…
Once again a stellar book with all the best characters, the best dialog, the best life lessons. Humorous and fast-paced this book was definitely a great addition to the series. I hope it, and all its counterparts, continue for years to come!
Once again a stellar book with all the best characters, the best dialog, the best life lessons. Humorous and fast-paced this book was definitely a great addition to the series. I hope it, and all its counterparts, continue for years to come!
July 8, 2024
They just keep getting better
I cannot get enough of this bunch! Thanks, Alan Lee, for bringing them into my home and allowing me to experience all the emotions they do as I'm reading. I wish I could make the book last longer but I'm too greedy for more.
I cannot get enough of this bunch! Thanks, Alan Lee, for bringing them into my home and allowing me to experience all the emotions they do as I'm reading. I wish I could make the book last longer but I'm too greedy for more.
July 9, 2024
Another great August mystery
Excellent book! It has everything good about Lee’s books—original plots, compelling characters, August’s hilarious internal and external dialogues, and big thoughts about real, important things.
Excellent book! It has everything good about Lee’s books—original plots, compelling characters, August’s hilarious internal and external dialogues, and big thoughts about real, important things.
July 10, 2024
Love everything about this series Great read
Mackenzie Manny Stackhouse. All great on their own. Together they are fantastic. Don't miss this. You won't believe how good these books are.
Mackenzie Manny Stackhouse. All great on their own. Together they are fantastic. Don't miss this. You won't believe how good these books are.
July 13, 2024
I have enjoyed all of the books in the MacKenzie universe, but in my opinion, this is one of the best. As always, MacKenzie is not just a tough private eye, but a man wrestling with the moral framework of his world. Excellent!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews