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A Fen Maguire Mystery #6
Murder On The Colorado
One body in the river. A flood of suspects on shore.
Artist and part-time private investigator Fen Maguire's peaceful location scouting takes a dark turn when kayakers pull a corpse from the Colorado River. The grisly discovery sets off a chain of events that plunge Fen into a web of small-town intrigue.
Weeks later, with the wrong man behind bars and threatening a lawsuit against the city, Fen is recruited to find the real killer. Under the guise of teaching an art class, he's tasked with uncovering the truth and preventing a costly legal battle.
As Fen delves deeper, he finds the victim had no shortage of enemies. Long-standing feuds and small-town politics muddy the waters, making potential suspects as numerous as the trees lining the river. Can Fen navigate the currents of deceit to expose the real killer?
Join Fen Maguire in this gripping whodunit as he sketches out the clues and paints a picture of deadly secrets. The twists and turns in this Texas small-town mystery will keep you turning the pages long into the night. With no graphic violence, strong language, or explicit scenes, you can recommend the Fen Maguire mysteries to anyone, from a teen to your grandma!
Artist and part-time private investigator Fen Maguire's peaceful location scouting takes a dark turn when kayakers pull a corpse from the Colorado River. The grisly discovery sets off a chain of events that plunge Fen into a web of small-town intrigue.
Weeks later, with the wrong man behind bars and threatening a lawsuit against the city, Fen is recruited to find the real killer. Under the guise of teaching an art class, he's tasked with uncovering the truth and preventing a costly legal battle.
As Fen delves deeper, he finds the victim had no shortage of enemies. Long-standing feuds and small-town politics muddy the waters, making potential suspects as numerous as the trees lining the river. Can Fen navigate the currents of deceit to expose the real killer?
Join Fen Maguire in this gripping whodunit as he sketches out the clues and paints a picture of deadly secrets. The twists and turns in this Texas small-town mystery will keep you turning the pages long into the night. With no graphic violence, strong language, or explicit scenes, you can recommend the Fen Maguire mysteries to anyone, from a teen to your grandma!
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2024
About the author
Bruce Hammack
51 books432 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 10, 2025
Review: I really like this series, especially the character development. Everyone is personality rich, which is a tough thing to accomplish in any novel.
Spoilers Ahead!!
The whodunnits in this series were not credible and lacked suspense. Would you attempt to silence or kill/frame someone for knowing that you had a love child when you were in highschool, especially if you are a man? Forty years ago, I don't think anyone gave a shjt. I certainly didn't. So why the elaborate shennanigans and murder for that? This mystery lacked inventiveness and complexity. Why not have the cover up be something deeper and darker like drug running at the border or someone knew that the killer had offed his best friend and GF in highschool in a jealous fit of rage? The way it sits is way too vanilla and not believable. The author could have easily inserted old cantankerous and caring Thelma as the culprit whom shot (hidden derringer) the ex-con as retribution for messing with Bailey. But Nooooooooo.
The only down side to this series, particularly this installment, is the constant pivot in every scene around food or coffee. Getting sandwiches, coffee, cookies, scones, coffee, a decent burger, super nachos, coffee etc., wore a hole in the mind carpet. I guess the deepest mystery to fathom is why the author uses this device in every scene? I can't figure it.
Besides my shjtpicking this was a good time. This lost a star due to the food/coffee commentary and weak mystery.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
2.4/5
Spoilers Ahead!!
The whodunnits in this series were not credible and lacked suspense. Would you attempt to silence or kill/frame someone for knowing that you had a love child when you were in highschool, especially if you are a man? Forty years ago, I don't think anyone gave a shjt. I certainly didn't. So why the elaborate shennanigans and murder for that? This mystery lacked inventiveness and complexity. Why not have the cover up be something deeper and darker like drug running at the border or someone knew that the killer had offed his best friend and GF in highschool in a jealous fit of rage? The way it sits is way too vanilla and not believable. The author could have easily inserted old cantankerous and caring Thelma as the culprit whom shot (hidden derringer) the ex-con as retribution for messing with Bailey. But Nooooooooo.
The only down side to this series, particularly this installment, is the constant pivot in every scene around food or coffee. Getting sandwiches, coffee, cookies, scones, coffee, a decent burger, super nachos, coffee etc., wore a hole in the mind carpet. I guess the deepest mystery to fathom is why the author uses this device in every scene? I can't figure it.
Besides my shjtpicking this was a good time. This lost a star due to the food/coffee commentary and weak mystery.
I received this ARC for an honest review.
2.4/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2024
Another intriguing clean murder mystery from talented author Bruce Hammack! It's always fun and interesting to learn a little more about the true-life Texas small towns where Hammack sets the books in this series.
This murder takes place in Smithville, TX, and includes a charming B&B and a walk past the house that was featured in the movie "Hope Floats." Fen Maguire is challenged by another cast of quirky suspects, and of course he always solves the case in his unique style.
This murder takes place in Smithville, TX, and includes a charming B&B and a walk past the house that was featured in the movie "Hope Floats." Fen Maguire is challenged by another cast of quirky suspects, and of course he always solves the case in his unique style.
August 19, 2025
Clean cozy mystery set in contemporary Texas. The author always includes some actual locations in his story which makes it fun for this armchair traveler. Just a nice enjoyable series.
September 4, 2024
The Fen Maguire Mystery Series:
MURDER ON THE COLORADO, #6 - Another excellent book with interesting story lines, good characters, humor, and a possible touch of romance. I like the book cover, fits the story well. Source: BookSirens. 5*
MURDER ON SHINBONE CREEK, prequel - My first read by this author and I enjoyed it. I like what the Sheriff did for the Sheriff-elect. Interesting story lines with good characters combined with a good writing style made this a one sitting read. 4*
MURDER ON THE BRAZOS, #1 - Takes place about nine months after MOSC ends. Enjoyable story that held my interest and attention until I finished the last page, in one sitting. One person I missed because I did not pay attention; yes, I was snookered by the smoke. Love that the author knows a bit about Texas and Texans. Source: BookSirens. 4*
MURDER ON THE ANGELINA, #2 - Picks up where MOTB ends. Interesting with good story lines and believable characters. Chicken Oil Co. closed April, 2022 due to a fire; now it looks like the author described, an aged, worn building; before the fire, a well taken care of rustic, not a dump. Source: BookSirens. 4*
MURDER ON THE GUADALUPE, #3 - Starts at the end of the Spring semester. I did not care for this story too much, yet I cannot say why. The writing style or maybe the story lines weren't as good as the previous books. Just an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
MURDER ON THE WICHITA, #4 - I was angry that I had two long round trips to two cities in opposite ends of Texas, in three days time, and every time I snuck a read the reader would hit me in the face waking me up. Finally, I was able to finish this intriguing book. Yes, I admit I'm addicted to Mr. Hammack's writing style, his core of characters, his story lines and that he's has Texas and Texans down pat. Yes, I know where he's from and that makes the difference, people. Fall semester begins. Interesting, intriguing, entertaining and constant pacing maked it hard to stop reading. See the anger bit I mentioned. I knew there was a reason for the stress placed here and there, but rumdumb me never clicked. Kinda funny find considering the snookering and deceptions that went on. Source: BookSirens. 5*
MURDER ON THE SAN GABRIEL, #5 - Another well written, interesting and entertaining read with a good variety of characters and good story lines. I figured out Whodunit rather easily. Ren is a lovable, enjoyable new character. Source: BookSirens. 5*
The Fen Maguire Mystery Series end.
MURDER ON THE COLORADO, #6 - Another excellent book with interesting story lines, good characters, humor, and a possible touch of romance. I like the book cover, fits the story well. Source: BookSirens. 5*
MURDER ON SHINBONE CREEK, prequel - My first read by this author and I enjoyed it. I like what the Sheriff did for the Sheriff-elect. Interesting story lines with good characters combined with a good writing style made this a one sitting read. 4*
MURDER ON THE BRAZOS, #1 - Takes place about nine months after MOSC ends. Enjoyable story that held my interest and attention until I finished the last page, in one sitting. One person I missed because I did not pay attention; yes, I was snookered by the smoke. Love that the author knows a bit about Texas and Texans. Source: BookSirens. 4*
MURDER ON THE ANGELINA, #2 - Picks up where MOTB ends. Interesting with good story lines and believable characters. Chicken Oil Co. closed April, 2022 due to a fire; now it looks like the author described, an aged, worn building; before the fire, a well taken care of rustic, not a dump. Source: BookSirens. 4*
MURDER ON THE GUADALUPE, #3 - Starts at the end of the Spring semester. I did not care for this story too much, yet I cannot say why. The writing style or maybe the story lines weren't as good as the previous books. Just an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
MURDER ON THE WICHITA, #4 - I was angry that I had two long round trips to two cities in opposite ends of Texas, in three days time, and every time I snuck a read the reader would hit me in the face waking me up. Finally, I was able to finish this intriguing book. Yes, I admit I'm addicted to Mr. Hammack's writing style, his core of characters, his story lines and that he's has Texas and Texans down pat. Yes, I know where he's from and that makes the difference, people. Fall semester begins. Interesting, intriguing, entertaining and constant pacing maked it hard to stop reading. See the anger bit I mentioned. I knew there was a reason for the stress placed here and there, but rumdumb me never clicked. Kinda funny find considering the snookering and deceptions that went on. Source: BookSirens. 5*
MURDER ON THE SAN GABRIEL, #5 - Another well written, interesting and entertaining read with a good variety of characters and good story lines. I figured out Whodunit rather easily. Ren is a lovable, enjoyable new character. Source: BookSirens. 5*
The Fen Maguire Mystery Series end.
August 27, 2024
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is another great story in this series. The story begins with Fen in Smithville looking a potential site for an art class he would be holding in the fall. At this current location, he spotted a kayak towing a body. It seems that the body was discovered by a group picking up trash along the riverbank. Fen advises the group and then tells the 911 operator to notify several agencies of the find. After giving his statement he went looking at other sites and then retired to the B&B that he was staying at. Fen made arrangements at that time to book the week that he was going to give the class.
As the time approaches for Fen to give his class, he receives a call from the B&B owner advising him that she has to cancel his reservation because she had an accident and there was no one available to handle guests. Fen was able to convince the owner to let him rent the whole building and he would have Thelma along for cooking and other items. It worked out perfectly because now Ren, Lou and Bailey could stay at the B&B and did not have to go to a hotel.
Fen had a second job he needed to handle and that was to find the killer that had been found in the river the last time he was in Smithville. Read along and follow Fen and his team as they look for information about the possible parties that might be involved. In addition, follow Fen as he runs his class during the day while working on finding the killer in his spare time.
The pieces begin to fall into place but there is no clear picture of who was responsible and why. It keeps going back to a note found on the body. Fen eventually brings all the possible parties together for the big reveal.
To learn who the killer was, what tasks Fen assigned to his group to work on while he was involved with his class, what distraction Fen ran into and how everything worked out in the end, then you need to read this book. You won't be sorry!
This is another great story in this series. The story begins with Fen in Smithville looking a potential site for an art class he would be holding in the fall. At this current location, he spotted a kayak towing a body. It seems that the body was discovered by a group picking up trash along the riverbank. Fen advises the group and then tells the 911 operator to notify several agencies of the find. After giving his statement he went looking at other sites and then retired to the B&B that he was staying at. Fen made arrangements at that time to book the week that he was going to give the class.
As the time approaches for Fen to give his class, he receives a call from the B&B owner advising him that she has to cancel his reservation because she had an accident and there was no one available to handle guests. Fen was able to convince the owner to let him rent the whole building and he would have Thelma along for cooking and other items. It worked out perfectly because now Ren, Lou and Bailey could stay at the B&B and did not have to go to a hotel.
Fen had a second job he needed to handle and that was to find the killer that had been found in the river the last time he was in Smithville. Read along and follow Fen and his team as they look for information about the possible parties that might be involved. In addition, follow Fen as he runs his class during the day while working on finding the killer in his spare time.
The pieces begin to fall into place but there is no clear picture of who was responsible and why. It keeps going back to a note found on the body. Fen eventually brings all the possible parties together for the big reveal.
To learn who the killer was, what tasks Fen assigned to his group to work on while he was involved with his class, what distraction Fen ran into and how everything worked out in the end, then you need to read this book. You won't be sorry!
August 31, 2024
I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion. I really enjoy Bruce Hammack's detective stories. He gives the reader a clear insight into the personalities of his characters and they are quite diverse. Fen Maguire is an enigmatic character who, after several years is still grieving the death of his wife, Sally with whom he has a daily conversation every morning and evening, just as when she was alive. His young protegé, Bailey is a young woman and aspiring artist who has suffered hardship in her young life, until Fen took her under his wing. Now she is as much his assistant in murder investigations as art student. Her friend Ren, an artist of murals is a bit too over active for me but, with tough reporter Lou, they make as formidable team - and Thelma, Fen's housekeeper is the most formidable character in the books! Fen's idea for a painting plays a big part in him working out who and what are the guilty parties and their secrets. What I particularly like in this book is the realities that Fen has to confront. First he knows that Bailey, who has been living and working in an efficiency apartment/studio over his garage is 19 now and will, inevitably go away to college. Fen is suffering every parent's sense of dread of the end of an era. Maybe worse for him, Audrey, the beautiful attorney involved in the puzzle Fen & co. are working to solve, stirs something in him that he never thought he'd feel again after his Sally. He was certain he was a one woman man - but maybe, after a time - he'll have to wait until his heart is ready. As usual this investigation is complicated with several possible culprits and avenues for research. Thoroughly enjoyable
September 24, 2024
Fen Maguire has the good fortune to rent a B&B for his week-long painting class instructing local artists (of varying levels of talent). It's also a thinly disguised cover for his investigation of a murder a few months earlier, because everyone seems to know he isn't just teaching art. They know about his dual reputations as an accomplished painter, and a former sheriff/part time investigator.
Things get more complicated with his "merry band" living in one house, and Thelma, his resident cook and housekeeper and her figurative shotgun (a handgun and an iron skillet).
This is book 6 in the series, and Fen is starting to "wake up to a world around him" (after the death of his wife), and notice a certain woman that's part of the case. Is she involved in the crime, or just as the district attorney?
It's one of the better installments of Fen's adventures, with more about the people, and the feelings portrayed by art, than hour by hour activities. And there's still plenty of country charm in Texas.
Thanks to Jubilee Publishing and Book Sirens for the temporary digital preview; any review is voluntary and my own opinion.
#TraditionalDetectiveMysteriesBooks
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#FormerSheriffArtTeacher
#FenMaguireDetectiveArtistTeacher
#FenMaguireMurderOnRiversInTexas
#BruceHammackAuthorNoGraphicViolenceStrongLanguageExplicitScenes
#BruceHammackDetectiveSeries
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#BruceHammackDetectiveSeriesArtistTeacher
Things get more complicated with his "merry band" living in one house, and Thelma, his resident cook and housekeeper and her figurative shotgun (a handgun and an iron skillet).
This is book 6 in the series, and Fen is starting to "wake up to a world around him" (after the death of his wife), and notice a certain woman that's part of the case. Is she involved in the crime, or just as the district attorney?
It's one of the better installments of Fen's adventures, with more about the people, and the feelings portrayed by art, than hour by hour activities. And there's still plenty of country charm in Texas.
Thanks to Jubilee Publishing and Book Sirens for the temporary digital preview; any review is voluntary and my own opinion.
#TraditionalDetectiveMysteriesBooks
#TraditionalDetectiveMysteriesKindleStore
#PrivateInvestigatorMysteries
#FormerSheriffArtTeacher
#FenMaguireDetectiveArtistTeacher
#FenMaguireMurderOnRiversInTexas
#BruceHammackAuthorNoGraphicViolenceStrongLanguageExplicitScenes
#BruceHammackDetectiveSeries
#BruceHammackDetectiveSeriesFormerSheriff
#BruceHammackDetectiveSeriesArtistTeacher
September 25, 2024
These Fen Maguire books are set in a location that is very different from mine, and that makes them even more desirable. This is the fourth one of the series that I have read. While in some series, the first book is excellent and the others just kind of copy it or fall away, or else the beginning is weak and there is a building up to an eventual really good book, neither of these apply to Bruce Hammack. I think I have enjoyed all equally, but perhaps this one just a little bit more.
The same characters are doing much the same things but the story is different enough from previous books in the series to be absolutely distinct. A different river has appeared in each of the books I have read, and that has sent me looking at maps to understand just where the action is. A novel in a real setting is so much more enjoyable to me.
As a person who enjoys solitude, it seems so right that Fen gets his inspiration and the solution to the mystery while he paints, painting being what he appears to enjoy most. As an ex-Sheriff he has the background to make a realistic judgement as to what is happening in each of the puzzles he finds. While it is slightly odd that whenever he is painting by a river, a murder happens by, but no more so than in many a series where the protagonist cannot visit a new town without something occurring to require his particular talents. It is all forgivable in the production of a good story, well written.
I look forward to more in this great series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The same characters are doing much the same things but the story is different enough from previous books in the series to be absolutely distinct. A different river has appeared in each of the books I have read, and that has sent me looking at maps to understand just where the action is. A novel in a real setting is so much more enjoyable to me.
As a person who enjoys solitude, it seems so right that Fen gets his inspiration and the solution to the mystery while he paints, painting being what he appears to enjoy most. As an ex-Sheriff he has the background to make a realistic judgement as to what is happening in each of the puzzles he finds. While it is slightly odd that whenever he is painting by a river, a murder happens by, but no more so than in many a series where the protagonist cannot visit a new town without something occurring to require his particular talents. It is all forgivable in the production of a good story, well written.
I look forward to more in this great series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 10, 2024
Current Day, Smithville, Texas
Katyhouse Bed and Breakfast
Main characters:
Fen Maguire: Former sheriff. Now cattle rancher and artist
Bailey Madison: Fen's artist protege
Ren Duvant: Mural artist, Bailey's friend
Lou Cooper: Reporter friend of Fen's
Thelma Blackwood: Fen's protective housekeeper and cook
Cory Blane: Sheriff's deputy, Bailey's boyfriend
Audrey West: City Attorney, suspect in town murder
John West: Audrey's son, Smithville policeman
Riley Eastham: Entrepreneur, suspect in town murder
Sonny Eastham: Riley's son, town drunk, suspect in town murder
Clayton and Mildred Fox: Town dentist and his mother, town matriarch
Chuck and Candy Forsythe: Fen's lawyer and Chuck's wife.
I so enjoy the Fen Maguire books. Fen is an artist and former sheriff with a degree of wealth and fame because of his art. Also well known in law enforcement for his uncanny crime solving abilities.
On vacation, painting and scoping out a future venue for his art class along the Colorado River, Fen watched as raft pulled a body ashore. The artist in Fen wanted to step away from something that would detract from his mission that week, but the cop in him wanted to at least see things done right in this investigation.
The artist won out, at least for a few weeks. But his expertise was needed and he heeded the call.
This time he took not only his normal investigative team (Bailey, his protege, and Lou, an investigative reporter) but to my delight he brought his housekeeper, Thelma, and Cory, Bailey’s cop boyfriend. Ren (Bailey's good friend) came along because she’s an art student, and part of Fen's job was the class which met in Smithville for a week-long art class.
Delightful, suspenseful and funny, with intelligent dialogue I’ve grown to love about Bruce Hammack's writing. And I loved that Thelma had such a huge part in this story. She's part grump, part mama bear with a penchant for gossip, which was the sort of investigating Fen needed on this trip.
Loved it.
Also enjoyed the relationships fostered between a few characters. As expected, nothing unseemly, but sweet and clean, with one big surprise.
As usual, I have to give this book five stars because of the imaginative work in this story and the enjoyment of watching Fen solve a murder in the unique way only Fen Maguire can.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to mystery lovers, or those who enjoy a clean human interest story.
I was given this ARC by the author with no expectation of a positive review. And believe me, if I didn’t enjoy a book, I’m completely honest about why I don’t.
But this? Loved it!
Katyhouse Bed and Breakfast
Main characters:
Fen Maguire: Former sheriff. Now cattle rancher and artist
Bailey Madison: Fen's artist protege
Ren Duvant: Mural artist, Bailey's friend
Lou Cooper: Reporter friend of Fen's
Thelma Blackwood: Fen's protective housekeeper and cook
Cory Blane: Sheriff's deputy, Bailey's boyfriend
Audrey West: City Attorney, suspect in town murder
John West: Audrey's son, Smithville policeman
Riley Eastham: Entrepreneur, suspect in town murder
Sonny Eastham: Riley's son, town drunk, suspect in town murder
Clayton and Mildred Fox: Town dentist and his mother, town matriarch
Chuck and Candy Forsythe: Fen's lawyer and Chuck's wife.
I so enjoy the Fen Maguire books. Fen is an artist and former sheriff with a degree of wealth and fame because of his art. Also well known in law enforcement for his uncanny crime solving abilities.
On vacation, painting and scoping out a future venue for his art class along the Colorado River, Fen watched as raft pulled a body ashore. The artist in Fen wanted to step away from something that would detract from his mission that week, but the cop in him wanted to at least see things done right in this investigation.
The artist won out, at least for a few weeks. But his expertise was needed and he heeded the call.
This time he took not only his normal investigative team (Bailey, his protege, and Lou, an investigative reporter) but to my delight he brought his housekeeper, Thelma, and Cory, Bailey’s cop boyfriend. Ren (Bailey's good friend) came along because she’s an art student, and part of Fen's job was the class which met in Smithville for a week-long art class.
Delightful, suspenseful and funny, with intelligent dialogue I’ve grown to love about Bruce Hammack's writing. And I loved that Thelma had such a huge part in this story. She's part grump, part mama bear with a penchant for gossip, which was the sort of investigating Fen needed on this trip.
Loved it.
Also enjoyed the relationships fostered between a few characters. As expected, nothing unseemly, but sweet and clean, with one big surprise.
As usual, I have to give this book five stars because of the imaginative work in this story and the enjoyment of watching Fen solve a murder in the unique way only Fen Maguire can.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to mystery lovers, or those who enjoy a clean human interest story.
I was given this ARC by the author with no expectation of a positive review. And believe me, if I didn’t enjoy a book, I’m completely honest about why I don’t.
But this? Loved it!
September 7, 2024
Fen's visit to Smithville to prepare for an art class he's to teach is interrupted by a group of kayakers finding a body - but he thinks that's someone else's problem. Unfortunately, when he returns weeks later to teach the class, he's tasked with finding the murderer because the wrong man has been arrested and is threatening to sue. But with far too many people having motives and any investigations having to fit around his teaching, will Fen (not to mention Bailey, Lou and Thelma) manage to find the culprit in time - or will he be distracted by an attractive city attorney?
Another good mystery with plenty of behind the scenes time in the lives of Fen and co., several red herrings, some good distractions and a satisfying denouement. It was an interesting change to have Thelma along, and the temporary(?) addition of Ren (and John) to the crew works well too. While not an artist by any stretch of the imagination, I find the art side interesting - and as usual, it's out in force as background colour in the investigation. The interrelationships among the characters are really what make these books, though - and this is no exception. The result is an interesting trail of breadcrumbs laid among the lives of interesting people, leading to a conclusion that I certainly didn't reach, but worked well. A good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Another good mystery with plenty of behind the scenes time in the lives of Fen and co., several red herrings, some good distractions and a satisfying denouement. It was an interesting change to have Thelma along, and the temporary(?) addition of Ren (and John) to the crew works well too. While not an artist by any stretch of the imagination, I find the art side interesting - and as usual, it's out in force as background colour in the investigation. The interrelationships among the characters are really what make these books, though - and this is no exception. The result is an interesting trail of breadcrumbs laid among the lives of interesting people, leading to a conclusion that I certainly didn't reach, but worked well. A good read.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
September 17, 2024
Fen juggles women demands and painting whilst solving small town murder.
This is the sixth book in the series and I have enjoyed all the previous ones. I strongly recommend reading all the river series in order to gain the true richness of Fen's cast of strong women and understand his approach to solving murders. I think it is possible this will work on its own and it doesn't give away previous plots, but reading out of order will spoil several character developments, including Fen's.
Perhaps because I have read the previous books and understand the author's gambits, I correctly guessed the main culprit quite early. There are a few twists in the plot and a struggle to find a motive continues until quite late. The clues are fair and well distributed. There are changes of pace and tension as well as some artistic painting advice.
Vivid descriptions make me think there has been some in-person research undertaken. Fen's "art of war" approach to letting the feisty females he deals with win some battles in order to fight the ones that matter to win the war is both explicit and shown. His internal conflict is also shown.
I enjoyed this visit with Fen and his crew in a new setting, but with art and understanding of people remaining central to his method. I will be happy to read more of their exploits.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the sixth book in the series and I have enjoyed all the previous ones. I strongly recommend reading all the river series in order to gain the true richness of Fen's cast of strong women and understand his approach to solving murders. I think it is possible this will work on its own and it doesn't give away previous plots, but reading out of order will spoil several character developments, including Fen's.
Perhaps because I have read the previous books and understand the author's gambits, I correctly guessed the main culprit quite early. There are a few twists in the plot and a struggle to find a motive continues until quite late. The clues are fair and well distributed. There are changes of pace and tension as well as some artistic painting advice.
Vivid descriptions make me think there has been some in-person research undertaken. Fen's "art of war" approach to letting the feisty females he deals with win some battles in order to fight the ones that matter to win the war is both explicit and shown. His internal conflict is also shown.
I enjoyed this visit with Fen and his crew in a new setting, but with art and understanding of people remaining central to his method. I will be happy to read more of their exploits.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 28, 2024
Another Bruce Hammack novel is always very welcome, I no longer check to see which series it is from as I know I’ll enjoy whatever he writes. This is no exception.
This time, not only does it involve Fen Maguire, his protege Bailey and Lou, reporter extraordinaire, but due to a slight accident, he manages to prise Thelma from the comfort of her own kitchen to take along on his latest adventure. Add in Cory, Baileys’ cop boyfriend, and Ren, another talented artist, and we have a handful of great characters to go with the suspects and victims they come into contact with in Smithville, while investigating a murder. The local force have arrested someone and don’t seem bothered if the suspect is guilty or not. As chance would have it Fen and Bailey were going to Smithville for an artists course, Fen teaching and Bailey being Bailey.
The plot is nicely twisted, not nearly as straight forward as it might seem, it also alludes to Chuck and Candy’s background and how far up their contacts reach. I love the way Fen broods when he’s trying to get all the facts together, how he still shares every moment with his late wife, Sally and can get twisted around his nearest and dearests’ fingers. A very satisfying ending too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This time, not only does it involve Fen Maguire, his protege Bailey and Lou, reporter extraordinaire, but due to a slight accident, he manages to prise Thelma from the comfort of her own kitchen to take along on his latest adventure. Add in Cory, Baileys’ cop boyfriend, and Ren, another talented artist, and we have a handful of great characters to go with the suspects and victims they come into contact with in Smithville, while investigating a murder. The local force have arrested someone and don’t seem bothered if the suspect is guilty or not. As chance would have it Fen and Bailey were going to Smithville for an artists course, Fen teaching and Bailey being Bailey.
The plot is nicely twisted, not nearly as straight forward as it might seem, it also alludes to Chuck and Candy’s background and how far up their contacts reach. I love the way Fen broods when he’s trying to get all the facts together, how he still shares every moment with his late wife, Sally and can get twisted around his nearest and dearests’ fingers. A very satisfying ending too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 31, 2024
The newest book in the (former) sheriff Fen Maguire series is a wonderful addition. Like other works by Mr. Hammack, it lives up to its ‘clean’ designation, which is refreshing among current offerings in the genre. The setting is interesting, the descriptions captivating. The book’s story stands on its own, but you would get more enjoyment from it if you have read the entire series, as the likable main characters develop in time and become your friends. I am honored to have had the opportunity to read and comment on the advanced copy. There was a pleasant surprise – no glitches or typos to point out. I wonder whether I may have missed some just because I was so keen to see what comes next? I read the book in one day and then it took me a week to decide what to put into this review and yet not give anything away. So … start wondering whether there will be another woman in Fen’s future after all? What will Thelma, his formidable housekeeper think about it? And how will he cope with solving a case, riding herd on his young assistants, and teaching an art class, all at the same time. Get the book and find out!
September 6, 2024
Fen is looking for locations for students of a painting class he is holding to use for their paintings. He search is interrupted by a group of boats carring trash and a body down the Colorado River. The boats were collecting trash along the river when they found the body. Fen immediately took control and notified the proper authorities. Fen has a class to teach, but Bailey is excited about the possibility of working on another murder mystery. In addition to advising his students on their paintings, Fen also gets wrapped up in the investigation. Fen makes arrangements for many of his team to stay at the Katy House, where he had previously stayed when scouting painting locations for his students.
The victim is Lee Grimes and he seems to have had quite a criminal record. Nothing violent, but he ran numerous scams, which led to more than a few enemies. But who killed Lee? Why was he killed? Can Fen solve the mystery while also teaching his class?
Bruce Hammack has another great mystery with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are wonderful and the situations very realistic.
The victim is Lee Grimes and he seems to have had quite a criminal record. Nothing violent, but he ran numerous scams, which led to more than a few enemies. But who killed Lee? Why was he killed? Can Fen solve the mystery while also teaching his class?
Bruce Hammack has another great mystery with plenty of twists and turns. The characters are wonderful and the situations very realistic.
August 23, 2024
Fen McGuire is a former cop, later Sheriff whose father-in-law worked to defeat him in the election after Fen's wife died. Fen is pleased to be a former Sheriff as he has become well-known in Texas as a painter. This book starts with Fen visiting the Colorado River where he is going to teach a class of potential painters and participate in an art show.
The plot is as always with this author twisted and keeps one guessing. Fen is the master at detecting but he has a crew, consisting of Bailey (a girl who is almost like a daughter and whose art is becoming recognized), Lou (an ex-reporter) and his cook who with her husband really keep an eye on Fen as was promised to Fen's wife before she died.
In this book, there are two crimes that for much of the book look connected but Fen through the combined detecting by his crew, his own interviews, and his painting solves the murder and the other crime. In order to avoid spoilers, I will only mention the word generations.
I received this book as an ARC with the promise of an honest review.
The plot is as always with this author twisted and keeps one guessing. Fen is the master at detecting but he has a crew, consisting of Bailey (a girl who is almost like a daughter and whose art is becoming recognized), Lou (an ex-reporter) and his cook who with her husband really keep an eye on Fen as was promised to Fen's wife before she died.
In this book, there are two crimes that for much of the book look connected but Fen through the combined detecting by his crew, his own interviews, and his painting solves the murder and the other crime. In order to avoid spoilers, I will only mention the word generations.
I received this book as an ARC with the promise of an honest review.
August 26, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Bruce gave us a few more nuggets into both Fen and Thelma, as well as, setting the stage for new twists in the trio sleuths (Fen, Bailey & Lou)
In this novel, Fen gets pulled into solving a murder that he didn’t want to. He was returning to the scene of the crime to teach an art class when Chuck and Candace convinced him to look into this… with a specific warning to be careful as there were some individuals with enough clout to wreck his life.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, he takes a chance and brings Thelma into the mix. So the trio turns into five as Ren also was part of the art class.
Fen has to wade through many misdirections, powerful characters, an ex convict, as well as others that are lying to protect their activities. Add into this mix some feelings that have lain dormant for years and it’s a wonder Fen managed to solve this case.
This might be the best book yet in this series.
Bruce gave us a few more nuggets into both Fen and Thelma, as well as, setting the stage for new twists in the trio sleuths (Fen, Bailey & Lou)
In this novel, Fen gets pulled into solving a murder that he didn’t want to. He was returning to the scene of the crime to teach an art class when Chuck and Candace convinced him to look into this… with a specific warning to be careful as there were some individuals with enough clout to wreck his life.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, he takes a chance and brings Thelma into the mix. So the trio turns into five as Ren also was part of the art class.
Fen has to wade through many misdirections, powerful characters, an ex convict, as well as others that are lying to protect their activities. Add into this mix some feelings that have lain dormant for years and it’s a wonder Fen managed to solve this case.
This might be the best book yet in this series.
January 10, 2025
Review for Murder on the Colorado - A Fen Maguire Mystery by Bruce Hammack
Contemporary clean detective crime mystery.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Murder on the Colorado follows Fen Maguire a now retired sheriff who is following his dream to make art after retirement. Fen is scouting locations for an art class he is teaching when a group of kayakers pull a body from the Colorado river. Fen is reluctant to get involved but when a wrong man is put behind bars Fen and his team don’t stop until they get to the truth.
From the jump I could not put this book down. I finished it in under 2 days. I was hooked from page one. The author has a way of pulling you in and keeping your attention. With his background in criminal justice it makes his writing that much more interesting. The character building is spot on. You really get an understanding for the characters. After I finished reading this I RAN to Amazon and bought a few other Fen Maguire books! I have not read a book that flowed this good in a long time. I have to give this book a 10/10. Highly recommended this book!
Contemporary clean detective crime mystery.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Murder on the Colorado follows Fen Maguire a now retired sheriff who is following his dream to make art after retirement. Fen is scouting locations for an art class he is teaching when a group of kayakers pull a body from the Colorado river. Fen is reluctant to get involved but when a wrong man is put behind bars Fen and his team don’t stop until they get to the truth.
From the jump I could not put this book down. I finished it in under 2 days. I was hooked from page one. The author has a way of pulling you in and keeping your attention. With his background in criminal justice it makes his writing that much more interesting. The character building is spot on. You really get an understanding for the characters. After I finished reading this I RAN to Amazon and bought a few other Fen Maguire books! I have not read a book that flowed this good in a long time. I have to give this book a 10/10. Highly recommended this book!
August 21, 2024
Is Fen a P.I. who knows the value of painting, or is he a painter who sidelines on murder investigations? It matters not for the story, but certainly does for Fen.
The author weaves a great story for a painter who gets drug, kicking and screaming, into a murder investigation. Unfortunately it's his lawyer with the power in this case, and his background in law enforcement makes him the perfect candidate. He has a very cooperative, if eclectic, group that he pulls together for this investigation. Reading this story shows you the master of the craft, regardless if you are taking about Fen doing investigations or the author laying the story out for the reader.
The setting from "Hope Floats" will come to life as he paints it for you. The same is true of the characters. If you love immersing yourself into a great murder mystery, let this one pull you in. Once you start reading you will not want to stop. It'll leave you hoping this is not the last.
The author weaves a great story for a painter who gets drug, kicking and screaming, into a murder investigation. Unfortunately it's his lawyer with the power in this case, and his background in law enforcement makes him the perfect candidate. He has a very cooperative, if eclectic, group that he pulls together for this investigation. Reading this story shows you the master of the craft, regardless if you are taking about Fen doing investigations or the author laying the story out for the reader.
The setting from "Hope Floats" will come to life as he paints it for you. The same is true of the characters. If you love immersing yourself into a great murder mystery, let this one pull you in. Once you start reading you will not want to stop. It'll leave you hoping this is not the last.
September 19, 2024
Another great Fen Maguire mystery. I look forward to the release of each new one, and I have purchased each book as soon as it has been made available.
I especially appreciate that the author does not use profanity or immorality in relating his tales, and there is no gore or stressful suspense. They are perfect for reading in bed to close out a busy day.
The author concentrates more on developing the characters and their stories to the point the reader feels like they are friends or neighbors.
In Murder on the Colorado there were plenty of suspects with plausible motives, and I thought I had figured out the culprit, but I was wrong. Including photos of the real Katy House was a plus. I already had images in my mind through the story, but it was fun to see the actual place that inspired the events.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I especially appreciate that the author does not use profanity or immorality in relating his tales, and there is no gore or stressful suspense. They are perfect for reading in bed to close out a busy day.
The author concentrates more on developing the characters and their stories to the point the reader feels like they are friends or neighbors.
In Murder on the Colorado there were plenty of suspects with plausible motives, and I thought I had figured out the culprit, but I was wrong. Including photos of the real Katy House was a plus. I already had images in my mind through the story, but it was fun to see the actual place that inspired the events.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 10, 2024
Truly an excellent Fen Maguire book. In addition to painting, teaching others to paint, and dealing with crime-solving, Fen has to confront the possibility of a romantic relationship.
I love how Bruce Hammack sets his stories in actual locations. Smithville, Texas is an interesting small town that has been the setting for many films, including Hope Floats. Much of the story takes place in or around The Katy House, which is a superior Bed and Breakfast as he depicts
Hammack had me doing an internet search on The Katy House and Smithville to confirm, as expected, that he accurately portrayed them. I'm surprised he neglected to mention that Smithville is home to the world's largest gingerbread man. That is 20 feet tall and weighs 1,308 pounds but I guess didn't fit in the story threads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love how Bruce Hammack sets his stories in actual locations. Smithville, Texas is an interesting small town that has been the setting for many films, including Hope Floats. Much of the story takes place in or around The Katy House, which is a superior Bed and Breakfast as he depicts
Hammack had me doing an internet search on The Katy House and Smithville to confirm, as expected, that he accurately portrayed them. I'm surprised he neglected to mention that Smithville is home to the world's largest gingerbread man. That is 20 feet tall and weighs 1,308 pounds but I guess didn't fit in the story threads.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2024
I enjoy every one of Hammack’s books in the Fen Maguire series! Fen is sketching on the bank of the Colorado River when he sees eight canoes coming to shore after collecting trash on the river, the last one towing a lifeless body behind it! He notifies the appropriate agencies, then returns to the Katy House for a shower and a nap. In the small town of Smithville, Texas, he has 25 participants scheduled for a five day painting class, followed by an art show, where they can showcase and sell their work. The victim turns out to be a Lee Grimes, and Fen is talked into helping investigate when the man arrested is proved innocent. As usual, there are plenty of twists to keep your interest. And Fen’s protege Bailey and her friend, REN, are along as well.
August 25, 2024
Once again, Fen is just quietly painting beside a riverbank, when a body is brought to him-dragged behind a kayak. While he professes no interest in getting involved, not only do circumstances draw him in, but his curiosity does, too. That’s good, since all of that is what provides me such great entertainment, as I follow the complications of both his household companions and interaction with others as an artist. I appreciate a good murder mystery without filthy language, sexual scenes, or undo violence to provide excitement. Fen and his crew always provide plenty of humor and entertainment without depending on those things. Balancing a murder investigation with his commitment to train some artists in the town keeps Fen hopping. Don’t miss seeing how he handles it all.
August 26, 2024
Our hero Fen, a former sheriff, just wants to have a quiet day of painting a peaceful river scene to prepare for an upcoming class he is teaching. As chance would have it, a body floats by, dragged behind a kayak. Although he doesn't want to become involved, his natural curiosity and his friend's insistence create the combination to put him front and center in the criminal investigation. While teaching the art class, he conducts the investigation to solve the murder. This book is another great mystery in the Fen Maguire series, although it can be read as a stand alone book. The characters are diverse and engaging and the plot is full of interesting developments. This book is a don't miss!
August 27, 2024
The story starts off with a death and of course our favorite retired lawman turned artists just happens to be on the scene- Fen. He's there to teach some artists then they sell their paintings. They ask Fen for assistance on the case looking into various things to report back so they can piece it all together. There are some dark family secrets that come out and some noteworthy people are involved in a coverup. Fen notices the small things that others don't, that's what makes him so good at his job. Fen and a certain lady had some sparks flying too. I couldn't bear to lose Thelma. She's such an Integral part of the story and must remain (even if Fen remarries) please!! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
September 1, 2024
Excellent, excellent read!!! My dad recommended this author, so when I came across this book I just knew I had to read it. The link to real life is so well done! I’ve been in Texas most of my life and the Texas influence just leaps off the pages of these books. The characters are so well written that you can’t imagine the story being complete without all of them, even cranky old Thelma. This is one of the best murder mysteries I’ve read in a very long time and the fact that there’s no gore, sex, or cussing makes it even better. I would absolutely recommend this author and this book series to anyone who loves a good story!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 4, 2024
The best book yet! As an advance reader I have watched, read, Bruce’s books develop. I like the characters and what is especially good is so many characters are well developed and living their own lives. Sometimes books narrow the story to a few principles who motor the narrative. In real life one deals with many people. Bruce is able to incorporate many voices, all intwined with the main character.
We follow Fen, retired sheriff now teaching art, standing on the bank of a river, as kayakers bring a body they have found floating upstream. As the investigation stalls, Fen is asked for help and he obliges, bringing his household to a B&B, while teaching his class. There are side stories that blend in the action to a satisfying ending.
We follow Fen, retired sheriff now teaching art, standing on the bank of a river, as kayakers bring a body they have found floating upstream. As the investigation stalls, Fen is asked for help and he obliges, bringing his household to a B&B, while teaching his class. There are side stories that blend in the action to a satisfying ending.
September 21, 2024
Who stabbed the guy that was found dead on the Colorado River, with the knife still in him?
Fen is back again to teach an art class, but there's been a murder and the officer on scene is so new that he's not sure how to proceed! Of course Fen quietly steps in to give the officer some much needed advice! Fen and his group are there to learn more about painting, and to sell their paintings.
I'm always thrilled when a new book comes out by my favorite author Bruce Hammock, who has the background in law enforcement that makes it real. Plus he writes clean crime mysteries that always draw me in
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and I'm happy to be able to leave my review
Fen is back again to teach an art class, but there's been a murder and the officer on scene is so new that he's not sure how to proceed! Of course Fen quietly steps in to give the officer some much needed advice! Fen and his group are there to learn more about painting, and to sell their paintings.
I'm always thrilled when a new book comes out by my favorite author Bruce Hammock, who has the background in law enforcement that makes it real. Plus he writes clean crime mysteries that always draw me in
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and I'm happy to be able to leave my review
June 6, 2025
Got this on hoopla as a fill in between new releases (I always need a book). It was a disappointment for me. Fen is a widowed former Sheriff, now artist who gets info on "new unsolvable" cases from a couple of friends. His entourage (housekeeper Thelma, reporter Lou & two young teen artists) solve these cases in between doing their artist craft show.
It was slow for me, not enough details to determine any kind thread to a perp, just Fen sending his crew out for gossip and gaining info from wherever they can. He then ruminates on this info, by communing with his deceased wife every morning and sleeping on it.
Suddenly. he has it solved and gathers everyone together for the big reveal!
It was slow for me, not enough details to determine any kind thread to a perp, just Fen sending his crew out for gossip and gaining info from wherever they can. He then ruminates on this info, by communing with his deceased wife every morning and sleeping on it.
Suddenly. he has it solved and gathers everyone together for the big reveal!
September 1, 2024
Another great mystery book by this author. This time I didn’t fall for the red herrings, but I still couldn’t guess whodunnit. The plot is interesting and well thought out. Everything gets explained and makes sense. All the clues are there for the reader to notice, but they are subtle. The main characters have the same personalities as in the previous books and have moved forward not sideways. I took this book on holiday with me and read it all in a day as I was enjoying it so much.
If you like murder mysteries, you will love reading this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
If you like murder mysteries, you will love reading this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 9, 2024
Murder on the Colorado by Bruce Hammack will keep you turning pages until the very end. This is a clean mystery that will have you guessing "whodunit" with every chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery and the characters. Fen Maguire is a former sheriff, an artist and an art instructor. The blending of artist and crime solver is a wonderful combination. This is a must read book if you enjoy mysteries. The plot and characters are well developed. This is the 6th book of the series, but it can be read as a stand alone. I received an advance copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. I highly recommend this book, series and author.
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