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Sharpe & Walker #3
Hidden in Smoke
When the crimes of a serial arsonist lead to murder, Sharpe and Walker need detective Eve Ronin to join the hunt in a blistering thriller by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Goldberg.
After dozens of Hollywood apartment buildings erupt in flames during a single night of terror, arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker are assigned to catch the serial torcher and end his spree. But then a catastrophic fire destroys a major freeway, crippling the city and forcing Sharpe and Walker to take on another massive case.
Desperate for help, they know exactly who to homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone. Together the four detectives must quickly figure out whether the freeway disaster was a tragic accident…or the work of a mastermind with a horrific plan.
As the investigations collide, an old foe with a revenge scheme enters the fray, igniting a race against time to stop a conspiracy of deception, corruption, and murder.
After dozens of Hollywood apartment buildings erupt in flames during a single night of terror, arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker are assigned to catch the serial torcher and end his spree. But then a catastrophic fire destroys a major freeway, crippling the city and forcing Sharpe and Walker to take on another massive case.
Desperate for help, they know exactly who to homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone. Together the four detectives must quickly figure out whether the freeway disaster was a tragic accident…or the work of a mastermind with a horrific plan.
As the investigations collide, an old foe with a revenge scheme enters the fray, igniting a race against time to stop a conspiracy of deception, corruption, and murder.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2025
1185 people are currently reading
3416 people want to read
About the author
Lee Goldberg
158 books2,110 followersLee Goldberg is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of over forty novels, including Malibu Burning, Calico, Lost Hills (the first novel in his acclaimed "Eve Ronin" series), 15 "Monk" mysteries, five "Fox & O'Hare" adventures (co-written with Janet Evanovich), and the new thriller Ashes Never Lie, the second in his "Sharpe & Walker" series.. He's written and/or produced many TV shows, including Diagnosis Murder, SeaQuest, and Monk and he co-created the Hallmark movie series Mystery 101.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
April 14, 2025
If you enjoy crime action thrillers and well-done series cross-overs, then look no further than
Hidden in Smoke
by Lee Goldberg. This is the third book in the Sharp and Walker series, but it also features Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone and adds in Deputy Sharon Carter based out of West Hollywood.
Several cars are set on fire on carports with apartments above them as well as a tower of apartments under construction in a single night. Arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker take the case to find the culprit. When a fire destroys a major freeway through the city, they take on another case. When a body is found, they call in homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone. As they work to determine if and how are the cases related, an old foe with a revenge scheme adds complexity to the story.
Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker are partners. Sharpe is brilliant at his job, methodical, observant, and experienced, and loves the forensics part of the investigation. However, he tends to speak his mind and isn’t diplomatic when dealing with others. Walker craves action and the independence he had as a US Marshal. He loves the hunt for the criminal, but not the forensics part of the investigation. They balance each other. Readers get insight into the personal lives of both characters in this book, especially Walker.
Eve is an energetic, ambitious, and compelling main character and someone you can root for. She works tirelessly and has clear goals and good instincts. Duncan is more methodical and thinks about food constantly. He hasn’t retired so he can help protect Eve from corrupt officers.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly with a twisty plot combined with humor, great characters, and excellent world-building. The plot is absorbing and intriguing with a storyline that packs a punch. The fast pace and sense of urgency kept me rapidly turning the pages. Readers easily become mentally and emotionally involved with the characters as well as the story. Visual and auditory imagery comes through vividly. My biggest quibble is that the culprit was a little too easy to discern.
Overall, this is a fast-paced, compelling, and suspenseful novel with some great twists, a little humor, and some action. If you enjoy excellent crime thrillers and police procedurals, then I recommend that you check out this one. The series is best read in order to fully understand past interactions between the four detectives as well as character growth and backstories. However, the mystery is written so that one can read it as a standalone. I can’t wait to read the next one.
Thomas and Mercer and Lee Goldberg provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 22, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.45 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Several cars are set on fire on carports with apartments above them as well as a tower of apartments under construction in a single night. Arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker take the case to find the culprit. When a fire destroys a major freeway through the city, they take on another case. When a body is found, they call in homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone. As they work to determine if and how are the cases related, an old foe with a revenge scheme adds complexity to the story.
Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker are partners. Sharpe is brilliant at his job, methodical, observant, and experienced, and loves the forensics part of the investigation. However, he tends to speak his mind and isn’t diplomatic when dealing with others. Walker craves action and the independence he had as a US Marshal. He loves the hunt for the criminal, but not the forensics part of the investigation. They balance each other. Readers get insight into the personal lives of both characters in this book, especially Walker.
Eve is an energetic, ambitious, and compelling main character and someone you can root for. She works tirelessly and has clear goals and good instincts. Duncan is more methodical and thinks about food constantly. He hasn’t retired so he can help protect Eve from corrupt officers.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly with a twisty plot combined with humor, great characters, and excellent world-building. The plot is absorbing and intriguing with a storyline that packs a punch. The fast pace and sense of urgency kept me rapidly turning the pages. Readers easily become mentally and emotionally involved with the characters as well as the story. Visual and auditory imagery comes through vividly. My biggest quibble is that the culprit was a little too easy to discern.
Overall, this is a fast-paced, compelling, and suspenseful novel with some great twists, a little humor, and some action. If you enjoy excellent crime thrillers and police procedurals, then I recommend that you check out this one. The series is best read in order to fully understand past interactions between the four detectives as well as character growth and backstories. However, the mystery is written so that one can read it as a standalone. I can’t wait to read the next one.
Thomas and Mercer and Lee Goldberg provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 22, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.45 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
March 15, 2025
4 stars for a thriller mystery set in Los Angeles County, California. I have read the previous 2 books in the series and you should also, before reading this book. The author even has a warning at the start
of the book, advising the reader that the first chapter contains major spoilers for book 2. Sharpe and Walker are arson investigators who work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
This book has two plots: One plot is about a serial arsonist who is starting fires in cars under homes on stilts. Sharpe and Walker realize that the fires are not random and start investigating. They do solve the mystery.
The second plot is a carryover from book 2 and I cannot say more without spoiling book 2. I enjoy the humor and camaraderie between Walker and Sharpe. Sharpe is the expert at unraveling the source of the arson, but has an abrasive personality, causing anger and resentment from firefighters. Walker is more of a people person and is usually able to smooth hurt feelings. He is also good at tracking suspects down.
One quote on two characters reuniting to do a robbery. The woman tells the guy that "I got new boobs. " she said.
He'd noticed. "That's different."
"Not if you're a woman," she said. "More men talk to my boobs than to my face."
Thank You Thomas & Mercer for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#HiddeninSmoke #NetGalley
Pub Date Apr 22 2025
of the book, advising the reader that the first chapter contains major spoilers for book 2. Sharpe and Walker are arson investigators who work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.
This book has two plots: One plot is about a serial arsonist who is starting fires in cars under homes on stilts. Sharpe and Walker realize that the fires are not random and start investigating. They do solve the mystery.
The second plot is a carryover from book 2 and I cannot say more without spoiling book 2. I enjoy the humor and camaraderie between Walker and Sharpe. Sharpe is the expert at unraveling the source of the arson, but has an abrasive personality, causing anger and resentment from firefighters. Walker is more of a people person and is usually able to smooth hurt feelings. He is also good at tracking suspects down.
One quote on two characters reuniting to do a robbery. The woman tells the guy that "I got new boobs. " she said.
He'd noticed. "That's different."
"Not if you're a woman," she said. "More men talk to my boobs than to my face."
Thank You Thomas & Mercer for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#HiddeninSmoke #NetGalley
Pub Date Apr 22 2025
April 30, 2025
West Hollywood has been rocked by a series of arsons in one night. The arsonist hit multiple apartment buildings by setting fire to a car in a car port. Just as Sharpe and Waler are beginning to piece some key clues together, a major fire impacts the city. Will this new fire distract them? Or will they be able to solve it as well?
There is a strong secondary plot as well that includes some major spoilers for the first book in the series. I didn’t like that storyline because it slowed things down with flashbacks and introduced some politics that hit wrong, especially after events in the last couple of months. On the other hand, I enjoyed the main storyline and all the great twists along the way. The characters are good but flat, and the male teenage humor doesn’t help them. There are some other laughs and great banter. I also enjoyed some scenes that were set close to me. Fans will enjoy this book, but I do wish it were stronger.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
There is a strong secondary plot as well that includes some major spoilers for the first book in the series. I didn’t like that storyline because it slowed things down with flashbacks and introduced some politics that hit wrong, especially after events in the last couple of months. On the other hand, I enjoyed the main storyline and all the great twists along the way. The characters are good but flat, and the male teenage humor doesn’t help them. There are some other laughs and great banter. I also enjoyed some scenes that were set close to me. Fans will enjoy this book, but I do wish it were stronger.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
September 13, 2025
(4.25 stars)
Lee Goldberg has written another action-packed book featuring Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker, who are arson investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. In addition to the action, Goldberg’s books also have a lot of humor sprinkled throughout. Sharpe is the more experienced of the two, while Walker, who used to be a US Marshal, is still learning from Sharpe but is catching on fast. He loves the chase while Sharpe loves the actual arson investigation, so they make a terrific pair. The relationship between Sharpe and Walker is wonderful and their banter is fun.
As with his Eve Ronin series, Goldberg sets these stories in the Los Angeles area, and usually specifically the northern sections often referred to as “the valley.” I know the area from family visits and his descriptions are great. The story this time features arson of course. For a couple of nights in a row, several arson fires are set, keeping the LA Fire Department rather busy. Sharpe complains about the firefighters washing away so much evidence but he admits it’s because they are doing their jobs; it just makes his job that much harder! And then, on top of this string of small fires, a section of the I-10 is damaged by a major fire underneath an overpass in the heart of the city, causing massive traffic gridlock around the region. Sharpe and Walker get pulled off the investigation into the earlier fires and put on this big one.
We get a bonus crossover in this book, with Eve and her partner Duncan joining the investigation team, due a murder related to the fires.
One thing that was different this time, is that part of the book is set in Japan, featuring an intricate heist by a master thief who featured in a previous book (Malibu Burning). Goldberg warns readers that you can read this one without reading the earlier story but that doing so will create spoilers for Malibu Burning, so be advised. I found those sections of the story fascinating - and the end of the book enticing.
Thank you to Thomas And Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Lee Goldberg has written another action-packed book featuring Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker, who are arson investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. In addition to the action, Goldberg’s books also have a lot of humor sprinkled throughout. Sharpe is the more experienced of the two, while Walker, who used to be a US Marshal, is still learning from Sharpe but is catching on fast. He loves the chase while Sharpe loves the actual arson investigation, so they make a terrific pair. The relationship between Sharpe and Walker is wonderful and their banter is fun.
As with his Eve Ronin series, Goldberg sets these stories in the Los Angeles area, and usually specifically the northern sections often referred to as “the valley.” I know the area from family visits and his descriptions are great. The story this time features arson of course. For a couple of nights in a row, several arson fires are set, keeping the LA Fire Department rather busy. Sharpe complains about the firefighters washing away so much evidence but he admits it’s because they are doing their jobs; it just makes his job that much harder! And then, on top of this string of small fires, a section of the I-10 is damaged by a major fire underneath an overpass in the heart of the city, causing massive traffic gridlock around the region. Sharpe and Walker get pulled off the investigation into the earlier fires and put on this big one.
We get a bonus crossover in this book, with Eve and her partner Duncan joining the investigation team, due a murder related to the fires.
One thing that was different this time, is that part of the book is set in Japan, featuring an intricate heist by a master thief who featured in a previous book (Malibu Burning). Goldberg warns readers that you can read this one without reading the earlier story but that doing so will create spoilers for Malibu Burning, so be advised. I found those sections of the story fascinating - and the end of the book enticing.
Thank you to Thomas And Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 7, 2025
Sharpe and Walker, fire investigators in LA, are looking into a series of local car fires. The investigation gets even more serious when there’s a fire that shuts down a major local highway. Is the same arsonist responsible? Corruption, murder, and some payback for corporate greed makes this a not to be missed page turner. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 3, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Lee Goldberg, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Another novel in the Sharpe and Walker series had me happy to return to the storytelling of Lee Goldberg. The author is always full of great ideas and knows how to keep the reader engaged, while also on the edge of their seat throughout. A number of fires across LA county have the pair trying to decipher if this is an arsonist on a spree or something deeper. While the evidence points in one direction, nothing can be taken for granted. All the while, a lingering event a few months ago serves as a secondary storyline that could keep one of our protagonists quite busy. Goldberg delivers a strong addition to the series and provides the reader with something to enjoy well into the night.
The skies of Los Angeles are full of smoke when scores of Hollywood apartments go up in flames during a single night of horror. It would seem that arson could be the reason, which sends Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker to the scene. Both are arson investigators with varied experience, though they are both tasked with trying to find the serial arsonist. Ending this slew of fires is their top priority, but it may take more than simply asking. While they have a lead or two, when a new fire of catastrophic proportions engulfs a freeway, Sharpe and Walker realise that they have a major case on their hands and no time to waste!
Just when things are heating up (pun intended), the investigation takes a turn and it would seem as though there may be additional motives for the fires, at least at the freeway. While Sharpe and Walker are trying to stay one step ahead, they reach out to homicide detective Eve Ronin and her partner, Duncan Pavone. A dead body loops the latter two into the middle of the investigation and permits all four to chase down some leads. The problem is that nothing may come to light without some added elbow grease.
As things get more complicated, an old foe returns to town and may be at the centre of the fires and larger criminal elements. While Sharpe and Walker know the drill, they must subject Ronin and Pavone to increased danger in order to solve the arson case and put everything back in order swiftly. It will take everyone working like clockwork to ensure success, but time is running out. Goldberg delivers another great story for those who have loved this series.
There's nothing like a police procedural penned by an author who knows how to present it well. Lee Goldberg does just what he needs to lure the reader into the middle of the action and keep them hooked until the very end. A clear narrative guides things along and provides a roadmap for success. The increased momentum keeps the reader flipping pages as they become enamoured with the larger story points. Characters that are always developing keep the series fans pleased and coming back to see progress. Plot points help bridge the gaps and provide moments of surprise to keep things from getting too repetitive, while leaving questions to linger for future novels. I am eager to see where things are headed and what Goldberg has in store for this series and some of his others with tangential connections.
Kudos, Mr. Goldberg, for another great read!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Another novel in the Sharpe and Walker series had me happy to return to the storytelling of Lee Goldberg. The author is always full of great ideas and knows how to keep the reader engaged, while also on the edge of their seat throughout. A number of fires across LA county have the pair trying to decipher if this is an arsonist on a spree or something deeper. While the evidence points in one direction, nothing can be taken for granted. All the while, a lingering event a few months ago serves as a secondary storyline that could keep one of our protagonists quite busy. Goldberg delivers a strong addition to the series and provides the reader with something to enjoy well into the night.
The skies of Los Angeles are full of smoke when scores of Hollywood apartments go up in flames during a single night of horror. It would seem that arson could be the reason, which sends Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker to the scene. Both are arson investigators with varied experience, though they are both tasked with trying to find the serial arsonist. Ending this slew of fires is their top priority, but it may take more than simply asking. While they have a lead or two, when a new fire of catastrophic proportions engulfs a freeway, Sharpe and Walker realise that they have a major case on their hands and no time to waste!
Just when things are heating up (pun intended), the investigation takes a turn and it would seem as though there may be additional motives for the fires, at least at the freeway. While Sharpe and Walker are trying to stay one step ahead, they reach out to homicide detective Eve Ronin and her partner, Duncan Pavone. A dead body loops the latter two into the middle of the investigation and permits all four to chase down some leads. The problem is that nothing may come to light without some added elbow grease.
As things get more complicated, an old foe returns to town and may be at the centre of the fires and larger criminal elements. While Sharpe and Walker know the drill, they must subject Ronin and Pavone to increased danger in order to solve the arson case and put everything back in order swiftly. It will take everyone working like clockwork to ensure success, but time is running out. Goldberg delivers another great story for those who have loved this series.
There's nothing like a police procedural penned by an author who knows how to present it well. Lee Goldberg does just what he needs to lure the reader into the middle of the action and keep them hooked until the very end. A clear narrative guides things along and provides a roadmap for success. The increased momentum keeps the reader flipping pages as they become enamoured with the larger story points. Characters that are always developing keep the series fans pleased and coming back to see progress. Plot points help bridge the gaps and provide moments of surprise to keep things from getting too repetitive, while leaving questions to linger for future novels. I am eager to see where things are headed and what Goldberg has in store for this series and some of his others with tangential connections.
Kudos, Mr. Goldberg, for another great read!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
December 24, 2024
I always have a great time reading a book from Lee Goldberg. Hidden in Smoke is the third book headlining Sharpe & Walker and featuring Ronin & Pavone. The intrepid arson investigators are a great set of characters and the story gets even better when the duo from the homicide squad gets involved. I love the bantering and humor but also the authors eye for detail and imagination when it comes to creating a story. I can really recommend this series and I thank Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for letting me have an advance copy of this great book.
March 13, 2025
I’ve become a big fan of Lee Goldberg’s novels, particularly his twin series featuring cops (Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone) and arson investigators (Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker), all based in the Los Angeles area. Their stories often cross over, and though this is ostensibly a tale about an arsonist (or arsonists) causing havoc across the city, there’s still room for Eve and Duncan to appear in cameo roles.
Walker, who is the ‘man hunter’ of pair, gets a call one night to advise him that someone is setting fires across the city, burning up cars and apartments. He’s immediately on it and ensures that Sharpe, the true investigator, is alerted, too. Though there are few clues as to the identity of the perpetrator, they manage to pick up a couple of common themes that might help them identify who’s creating this chaos. But that’s just the start of their problems. A separate incident – a huge blaze at a major freeway – quickly becomes their priority.
There is a sub-plot here, too, involving expensive drugs that Walker and his wife have to fund in order to help their young son who suffers from seizures. The cost of the drugs is causing them severe financial stress, but they’re essential for their son’s wellbeing. However, Walker has a plan – unknown to his wife – and it involves a character Goldberg introduced in the first book in this series (Malibu Burning), an adventurous thief called Danny Cole.
It’s true escapism, but also grounded in solid research. It’s really well done. Another exciting, amusing, and surprising tale, which I found all the more interesting, having avidly followed the intense media coverage given to the terrible fires in Los Angeles recently. I can’t wait for the next episode
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Walker, who is the ‘man hunter’ of pair, gets a call one night to advise him that someone is setting fires across the city, burning up cars and apartments. He’s immediately on it and ensures that Sharpe, the true investigator, is alerted, too. Though there are few clues as to the identity of the perpetrator, they manage to pick up a couple of common themes that might help them identify who’s creating this chaos. But that’s just the start of their problems. A separate incident – a huge blaze at a major freeway – quickly becomes their priority.
There is a sub-plot here, too, involving expensive drugs that Walker and his wife have to fund in order to help their young son who suffers from seizures. The cost of the drugs is causing them severe financial stress, but they’re essential for their son’s wellbeing. However, Walker has a plan – unknown to his wife – and it involves a character Goldberg introduced in the first book in this series (Malibu Burning), an adventurous thief called Danny Cole.
It’s true escapism, but also grounded in solid research. It’s really well done. Another exciting, amusing, and surprising tale, which I found all the more interesting, having avidly followed the intense media coverage given to the terrible fires in Los Angeles recently. I can’t wait for the next episode
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 28, 2025
Another masterpiece by Lee Goldberg. What a great writer he is. He weaves his stories into luscious mysteries. His duo of Walker and Sharpe’ are real characters and the writing is tight, well plotted and holds you in until you can’t let go. This is number three in the series. I loved the first book Malibu Burning which sets up a lot of the characters in this book. Can’t wait for the next one.
January 5, 2025
hidden in smoke is the third book in the sharpe and walker series where they are investigating a pattern of fires in hollywood, and call in the help of two other investigators to figure out what exactly is going on.
this is my first ever ARC and i was very very excited to give this book a try despite never reading one by this author. the entire book gave criminal minds vibes, just without delving too deeply into the arsonist’s psyche. and although i love that show, this book just felt like something ive seen before. maybe not the exact situation, it just didn’t wow me necessarily. and there were even harmful/outdated words and phrases used such as hobos (houseless peoples) and an ableist slur that is extremely unpleasant to read in a book i thought i’d enjoy. sadly i just dont think the book is for me, and it was hard to find much i liked about it.
nonetheless, thank you thomas and mercer for providing this ARC for my honest review via netgalley!
this is my first ever ARC and i was very very excited to give this book a try despite never reading one by this author. the entire book gave criminal minds vibes, just without delving too deeply into the arsonist’s psyche. and although i love that show, this book just felt like something ive seen before. maybe not the exact situation, it just didn’t wow me necessarily. and there were even harmful/outdated words and phrases used such as hobos (houseless peoples) and an ableist slur that is extremely unpleasant to read in a book i thought i’d enjoy. sadly i just dont think the book is for me, and it was hard to find much i liked about it.
nonetheless, thank you thomas and mercer for providing this ARC for my honest review via netgalley!
May 24, 2025
'Hidden In Smoke‘ is the third book from Lee Goldberg featuring L.A. arson investigators Sharpe and Walker. It also features homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone and Danny Cole, the criminal mastermind with a heart of gold from the first Sharpe and Walker book, ‘Malibu Burning’
Like its predecessors, it was an entertaining mix of action-packed thriller, ingenious mystery and larger-than-life characters who made me smile.
It was a fast-paced, energetic, often funny book that combined two complex arson investigations with a heist on a high-tech museum of bizarre curiosities and a clever sting operation on a very bad man.
The Heist and Sting part of the book was the work of Danny Cole and his strange but talented associates. I thought bringing him back was a wonderful idea. I'm hoping that there's a chance that he'll get his own spin-off series - a sort of Raffles-with-attitude (and a conscience) series.
As always. I enjoyed Lee Goldberg’s ability to use bizarre facts and incidents from real life to create exciting and surprising plots. Most of all, I loved the way he’s turned the characters from the Eve Ronin books and the Sharpe & Walker books into an ensemble cast who I know will always make me smile.
I'm already looking forward to the next Eve Ronin book, 'Fallen Star' coming out in October.
Like its predecessors, it was an entertaining mix of action-packed thriller, ingenious mystery and larger-than-life characters who made me smile.
It was a fast-paced, energetic, often funny book that combined two complex arson investigations with a heist on a high-tech museum of bizarre curiosities and a clever sting operation on a very bad man.
The Heist and Sting part of the book was the work of Danny Cole and his strange but talented associates. I thought bringing him back was a wonderful idea. I'm hoping that there's a chance that he'll get his own spin-off series - a sort of Raffles-with-attitude (and a conscience) series.
As always. I enjoyed Lee Goldberg’s ability to use bizarre facts and incidents from real life to create exciting and surprising plots. Most of all, I loved the way he’s turned the characters from the Eve Ronin books and the Sharpe & Walker books into an ensemble cast who I know will always make me smile.
I'm already looking forward to the next Eve Ronin book, 'Fallen Star' coming out in October.
January 4, 2025
Veteran arson investigator Walker and his fairly new partner, former US Marshall Sharpe are back in action chasing down arsonists. Both Walker and Sharpe, nicknamed Shar Pei because of his uncanny resemblance to one, are unique characters, a bit unconventional, but full of wit and intelligence. Best of all in this book, they have some opportunities to team up with Eve Ronin, a detective from one of Goldberg’s other popular series of which I am a fan.
With a few storylines, this is a fast paced thrill ride. I really enjoy the humorous wise cracks throughout the book and the relationship between the partners .A bit over the top at times, it is an entertaining read. An added bonus is insight into the investigative process involved in arson.
This series is a unique take on crime fiction/mystery/thriller. The third installment, I did read and enjoy the first two. Although characters from a previous story appear, this would work as a standalone.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasandMercer for the DRC.
With a few storylines, this is a fast paced thrill ride. I really enjoy the humorous wise cracks throughout the book and the relationship between the partners .A bit over the top at times, it is an entertaining read. An added bonus is insight into the investigative process involved in arson.
This series is a unique take on crime fiction/mystery/thriller. The third installment, I did read and enjoy the first two. Although characters from a previous story appear, this would work as a standalone.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasandMercer for the DRC.
February 26, 2025
ARC Review: Lee Goldberg’s Hidden in Smoke is an enjoyable adventure that follows a serial arson investigation alongside a heist subplot, both of which come together in the end in an unexpected and satisfying way. The story centers on Walker and Sharpe, two investigators working to solve a series of fires set in carports and along a freeway. Walker, who is also dealing with personal struggles, including his son’s medical condition, calls on an old conman, Brian, for help. However, Walker’s motive isn’t to involve Brian in the case; instead, he gives him an alternative task that leads to a separate heist.
Eve Ronin, a detective brought in to investigate a murder potentially connected to the fires, adds another layer to the story. While the arson investigation and the heist are separate, Goldberg skillfully brings these two threads together in the end, creating a rewarding payoff.
The book is an engaging and character-driven read, with moments of humor that lighten the mood. The story balances Walker’s personal challenges with the ongoing investigation, making the characters feel relatable and grounded.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC!
Eve Ronin, a detective brought in to investigate a murder potentially connected to the fires, adds another layer to the story. While the arson investigation and the heist are separate, Goldberg skillfully brings these two threads together in the end, creating a rewarding payoff.
The book is an engaging and character-driven read, with moments of humor that lighten the mood. The story balances Walker’s personal challenges with the ongoing investigation, making the characters feel relatable and grounded.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC!
December 12, 2024
It's like Christmas every time I have a book by Mr. Goldberg on my TBR list and Hidden in Smoke was no exception! Someone is setting cars in carports on fire in Hollywood and Walker and Sharpe are called in to investigate. Just as they are starting to make a small dent into solving that crime, someone sets a huge fire under the overpass of one of the major freeways in Los Angeles undermining the safety of the overpass and causing it to be shut down.
I enjoyed it tremendously when Eve and Duncan joined the investigation. (I'm still happy-dancing that Duncan chose not to retire, yet.) If that weren't enough, there was a side story that made me feel as though I had been plopped into a James Bond movie!
Hidden in Smoke is a great read that explores dealing with life-threatening situations and the gray areas between good and bad. The characters are complex and interesting, plus there are many laughs, preventing the book from becoming too dark. I loved it and recommend it!
Huge thanks to #ThomasAndMercer for providing this book for review consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This book is #3 in the Sharpe & Walker series and has an expected publication date of April 22, 2025.
#FireInvestigation #Crime #Mystery #LeeGoldberg
I enjoyed it tremendously when Eve and Duncan joined the investigation. (I'm still happy-dancing that Duncan chose not to retire, yet.) If that weren't enough, there was a side story that made me feel as though I had been plopped into a James Bond movie!
Hidden in Smoke is a great read that explores dealing with life-threatening situations and the gray areas between good and bad. The characters are complex and interesting, plus there are many laughs, preventing the book from becoming too dark. I loved it and recommend it!
Huge thanks to #ThomasAndMercer for providing this book for review consideration via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. This book is #3 in the Sharpe & Walker series and has an expected publication date of April 22, 2025.
#FireInvestigation #Crime #Mystery #LeeGoldberg
May 17, 2025
Lee Goldberg delivers another gripping crime thriller with Hidden in Smoke. Even though it’s the third in the Sharpe and Walker series, it works well as a standalone—but you’ll want to go back and read the first two before reading this one.
When a string of arsons escalates into a deadly conspiracy, arson investigators Sharpe and Walker team up with homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone in a fast-paced race against time. The plot is tight, the dialogue crackles, and the action never lets up. Great character development.
In my opinion, Goldberg is right up there with Connely when it comes to smart, high-octane crime fiction with some humor sprinkled throughout.
When a string of arsons escalates into a deadly conspiracy, arson investigators Sharpe and Walker team up with homicide detectives Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone in a fast-paced race against time. The plot is tight, the dialogue crackles, and the action never lets up. Great character development.
In my opinion, Goldberg is right up there with Connely when it comes to smart, high-octane crime fiction with some humor sprinkled throughout.
December 25, 2024
Lee Goldberg has an incredible talent for cleverly plotted action thrillers. He is a screenwriter and his books are like a full cable series. It’s season three for Los Angeles County Sheriff arson investigators Sharpe (the arson expert) and Walker (the manhunter and former US Marshal). We get a reminder of season one in the beginning — back when a firefighting convict, Danny Cole, slipped away during a devastating Malibu blaze, but not before helping save two teenagers.
This time we have the older, cynical Walter Sharpe and younger Stetson-hatted Andrew Walker investigating a series of car fires in dingbat apartment buildings (mid-century, seismically vulnerable, two story apartments over carports, often with cool names on the front, many which collapsed after the Northridge earthquake) in one incredibly fiery night. They aren’t certain if the cars, tenants, style of buildings, or property owners were the targets.
Just as they’re zeroing in on a possible suspect and motive, there’s a spectular freeway fire (much like the real life November 2023 I-10 blaze) which started below the expressway in an area of questionable storage facilities (flammable pallets), rickety business shanties (recycling grease) and a homeless encampment (pirated electricity, open flame cooking devices, propane tanks, and sewage). The closed road is also a political hot potato and all sorts of officials (up to the governor) want to have the freeway rebuilt ASAP.
“Hidden in Smoke” works well as a standalone, but even the author suggests you’ll get a fuller experience if you read the first installment, “Malibu Burning.” Mr. Goldberg keeps us hyper-aware of the jurisdictional conflicts between the LA Sheriff’s Department, the LA County Fire Department, and the City of Los Angeles’ own Police And Fire Departments. Plus add in a few other municipal areas and teams like West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Sharpe is always wary of any political involvement and appearances; Walker just want to find the bad guy. Midway through, we get the guest stars: Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone — from Goldberg’s other terrific 5 book “Eve Ronin” series, who also were in the Sharpe/Walker book two, “Ashes Never Lie.” They are Sheriff’s homicide investigators and get involved when a a possible suspect who was living beyond his means (but near Eve’s Lost Hills station) is found dead.
We do have another story interwoven among the arson investigations: semi-villain and book one secret survivor Danny Cole and his heist crew get to teach us about horology (the world of fine timepieces) on a Japanese billionaire’s private island with a glass bridge that cracks as you walk over it (also a real thing — Google this for fun). Trust me, the Cole backstory all neatly fits in by the end.
As I mentioned, this Goldberg mystery moved like a TV series — keeping an open case in the background, introducing familiar characters, having the “crossover” episode, but always jumping to a newer action scene if a paperwork/forensic scene lagged. I absolutely love the Sharpe and Walker dynamic (I put my TBR aside as soon I received this thriller) and I already want a fourth book! 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO No eye colors, just sleepy and bloodshot eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Lee Goldberg meticulously knows the desert landscape of the hills surrounding Los Angeles.
Thank you to Thomas and Mercer and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
This time we have the older, cynical Walter Sharpe and younger Stetson-hatted Andrew Walker investigating a series of car fires in dingbat apartment buildings (mid-century, seismically vulnerable, two story apartments over carports, often with cool names on the front, many which collapsed after the Northridge earthquake) in one incredibly fiery night. They aren’t certain if the cars, tenants, style of buildings, or property owners were the targets.
Just as they’re zeroing in on a possible suspect and motive, there’s a spectular freeway fire (much like the real life November 2023 I-10 blaze) which started below the expressway in an area of questionable storage facilities (flammable pallets), rickety business shanties (recycling grease) and a homeless encampment (pirated electricity, open flame cooking devices, propane tanks, and sewage). The closed road is also a political hot potato and all sorts of officials (up to the governor) want to have the freeway rebuilt ASAP.
“Hidden in Smoke” works well as a standalone, but even the author suggests you’ll get a fuller experience if you read the first installment, “Malibu Burning.” Mr. Goldberg keeps us hyper-aware of the jurisdictional conflicts between the LA Sheriff’s Department, the LA County Fire Department, and the City of Los Angeles’ own Police And Fire Departments. Plus add in a few other municipal areas and teams like West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Sharpe is always wary of any political involvement and appearances; Walker just want to find the bad guy. Midway through, we get the guest stars: Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone — from Goldberg’s other terrific 5 book “Eve Ronin” series, who also were in the Sharpe/Walker book two, “Ashes Never Lie.” They are Sheriff’s homicide investigators and get involved when a a possible suspect who was living beyond his means (but near Eve’s Lost Hills station) is found dead.
We do have another story interwoven among the arson investigations: semi-villain and book one secret survivor Danny Cole and his heist crew get to teach us about horology (the world of fine timepieces) on a Japanese billionaire’s private island with a glass bridge that cracks as you walk over it (also a real thing — Google this for fun). Trust me, the Cole backstory all neatly fits in by the end.
As I mentioned, this Goldberg mystery moved like a TV series — keeping an open case in the background, introducing familiar characters, having the “crossover” episode, but always jumping to a newer action scene if a paperwork/forensic scene lagged. I absolutely love the Sharpe and Walker dynamic (I put my TBR aside as soon I received this thriller) and I already want a fourth book! 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO No eye colors, just sleepy and bloodshot eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Lee Goldberg meticulously knows the desert landscape of the hills surrounding Los Angeles.
Thank you to Thomas and Mercer and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
December 7, 2024
“Hidden in Smoke” by Lee Goldberg is the 3rd book in the Sharpe & Walker series and is just as much fun and well written as books 1 and 2!
In this book cars and carports are being set afire in Hollywood. At the same time a major underpass that intersects most of the main LA highways is also ablaze and Walker and Sharpe are called in to investigate. As an added fun element, we also find Eve Ronan and Duncan Pavone from Mr. Goldberg’s other great series called in to assist with the investigation. There is a well crafted subplot that takes us into the extreme world of expensive cars, watches, and wing-suit flying that will remind you of a James Bond movie that makes this book impossible to put down! This can be read as a standalone but anyone looking for a great thriller will enjoy the series.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 10, 2024
My favorite arson investigators are back. While Sharpe and Walker are battling arson fires, Danny Cole is planning a big con. He needs closure from the last one. Slezak was still prospering. This series keeps me coming back for more. Witty dialog and elaborate cons make it a non-stop thrill ride. Love the crossovers when we get to see Eve and Duncan, too! Lee Goldberg is one of my must read authors!
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
March 1, 2025
Wow - the plot of this book, the third in the series featuring arson investigators Walter Sharpe and Andrew Walker, sure has a lot of "legs." I guess that's another way of saying it was much more complex and hard to follow than that first two, at least until I'd passed the halfway point. After that, it everything started to mesh, though, and by the end, I realized how well it's written and how much I enjoyed it.
There are three situations involved from the beginning: the torching of several parking garages at apartments in Hollywood on just one night, a major fire that wipes out a major section of a busy freeway and destroys illicit businesses and homeless camps littered below the overpass, and an old "connection" of Walter's - Danny Cole - who for whatever reason has formulated a plan to steal a $40 million, one-of-a-kind wristwatch from it's high-security location in Japan. Fairly early on, Walter and Andrew are called away from the garage fires to the more potentiallyl devastating freeway - but there's still a possibility the same perp could be behind both.
How Danny fares with the theft - and why he's doing it - I'll leave for readers to learn for themselves. I will say, though, that I'm one of those who, while sympathetic, rarely believe the end justifies the means. And what that means is I lost a little bit of respect for one of the characters in the book even though his actions can be deemed justifiable (and most certainly address an important issue of national concern).
As the freeway investigation begins, Walter and Andrew hook up with Lost Hills homicide detective Eve Ronin and her sidekick Duncan Pavone - always guaranteed to add some spice to the series. When the man suspected of engineering the horrific blaze turns up dead, well, that adds even more intrigue. And that's as far as I'm willing to go to not risk revealing too much - I'll just say alls well that ends well, especially when it leaves an ember or two smoldering and ready for rekindling in the next installment. Soon, please?
Meantime, many thanks once again to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one.
There are three situations involved from the beginning: the torching of several parking garages at apartments in Hollywood on just one night, a major fire that wipes out a major section of a busy freeway and destroys illicit businesses and homeless camps littered below the overpass, and an old "connection" of Walter's - Danny Cole - who for whatever reason has formulated a plan to steal a $40 million, one-of-a-kind wristwatch from it's high-security location in Japan. Fairly early on, Walter and Andrew are called away from the garage fires to the more potentiallyl devastating freeway - but there's still a possibility the same perp could be behind both.
How Danny fares with the theft - and why he's doing it - I'll leave for readers to learn for themselves. I will say, though, that I'm one of those who, while sympathetic, rarely believe the end justifies the means. And what that means is I lost a little bit of respect for one of the characters in the book even though his actions can be deemed justifiable (and most certainly address an important issue of national concern).
As the freeway investigation begins, Walter and Andrew hook up with Lost Hills homicide detective Eve Ronin and her sidekick Duncan Pavone - always guaranteed to add some spice to the series. When the man suspected of engineering the horrific blaze turns up dead, well, that adds even more intrigue. And that's as far as I'm willing to go to not risk revealing too much - I'll just say alls well that ends well, especially when it leaves an ember or two smoldering and ready for rekindling in the next installment. Soon, please?
Meantime, many thanks once again to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy of this one.
December 17, 2024
I love this series and especially how we get three very interesting scenes
that will come together and on the way to the conclusion, there are a lot
of great events with characters we have come to love in this *hot* *explosive*
series.
that will come together and on the way to the conclusion, there are a lot
of great events with characters we have come to love in this *hot* *explosive*
series.
December 28, 2024
Hidden in Smoke is the third book in the “Sharpe and Walker” series, which follow two arson investigators in LA. In this edition, the investigators are searching for a serial arsonist responsible for setting dozens of simultaneous fires near apartment buildings. But when a huge fire damages a busy freeway, bringing traffic in LA to a standstill, Sharpe and Walker add that case to their list. When a homicide is discovered during the investigation, superstar detective Eve Ronin is called in to assist, adding to the mix. There’s a dual plot here as well, interspersed with the arson investigation, and that works well to increase the suspense in both plots. This is a welcome addition to this series, definitely a huge improvement over the previous book. The writing is sharp (no pun intended), the dialogue is witty and appropriately sarcastic, and the plot will hold your interest. Loved this one! I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2025
I’ve read book one and two in the Sharpe/Walker series and it just keeps getting better and better. The story is told from Walker’s POV but the cast of characters include the fantastic Eve Ronin from Goldberg’s other series and the sarcastic wit of her partner Duncan Pavon. Sharpe has his own brand of humor or should I say dry humor and we get a return of a character from book one that makes this book an adventure. Really great evolution of these pair of arson investigators and interesting cases to follow. Can’t wait for the next installment.
May 1, 2025
Hidden in Smoke is the third installment in the Sharpe and Walker series, centered on two arson investigators with very different personalities who sometimes clash but ultimately make a great team. In this book, Sharpe and Walker are investigating a series of car fires, along with a major highway blaze that has caused significant damage and may be the work of a serial arsonist. Meanwhile, we also follow Danny Cole, a professional conman and thief who first appeared in book one and returns here in what turned out to be my favorite storyline.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far, and the fact that the heist subplot was more engaging than the main investigation left me a bit disappointed. Still, it was an entertaining and enjoyable read overall, just not as satisfying as the previous entries in my opinion.
This was probably my least favorite of the series so far, and the fact that the heist subplot was more engaging than the main investigation left me a bit disappointed. Still, it was an entertaining and enjoyable read overall, just not as satisfying as the previous entries in my opinion.
October 1, 2025
These audiobooks are so much fun. I love the banter and how the two narrators talk to each other instead of doing separate chapters.
A fun mystery, Sharpe got humbled a teeny bit, and I loved the storyline with Walker's son and the medication. There's so much action it's never boring at all
I can see reading Goldberg in small doses but I'd like to crack into his backlog soon
A fun mystery, Sharpe got humbled a teeny bit, and I loved the storyline with Walker's son and the medication. There's so much action it's never boring at all
I can see reading Goldberg in small doses but I'd like to crack into his backlog soon
May 21, 2025
I love this series of mystery/detective books with great storytelling, plotting, action, snappy dialogue and characters I can’t help rooting for.
December 5, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "Hidden In Smoke" by Lee Goldberg.
This is the third in the "Sharpe & Walker" series, and as an added bonus, Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone (from Mr. Goldberg's other great series) are part of this one, too - so a twofer!
The main storyline involves, of course, fire - to be specific, arson, as a number of cars are set fire in carports throughout Hollywood, and Sharpe and Walker are called in to investigate. It takes some time and investigation, but the reason and method of the fires is soon discovered; and the race is on to apprehend the perpetrator.
Simultaneously, there is a major underpass fire, affecting dozens of businesses (some very sketchy) and absolutely tying up traffic, as the overpasses are also unusable. The pair are called in on this one, also, and at first it appears that the same person may be responsible for the arson - all of the signs are there. But it soon becomes apparent to the investigators that there may be more to this than meets the eye, and the investigation takes a dark turn. This is where Eve and Duncan come into the picture.
In a subplot that runs through the entire book, Walker has made contact with a former adversary, to hatch a 'cunning plan'. Too many spoilers, so I'll just say it's a romp and a half!
Excellent story, well crafted and highly recommended. If you're new to the series, not a problem. This can be read as a standalone; but do yourself a favour and start from book one. You won't regret it.
This is the third in the "Sharpe & Walker" series, and as an added bonus, Eve Ronin and Duncan Pavone (from Mr. Goldberg's other great series) are part of this one, too - so a twofer!
The main storyline involves, of course, fire - to be specific, arson, as a number of cars are set fire in carports throughout Hollywood, and Sharpe and Walker are called in to investigate. It takes some time and investigation, but the reason and method of the fires is soon discovered; and the race is on to apprehend the perpetrator.
Simultaneously, there is a major underpass fire, affecting dozens of businesses (some very sketchy) and absolutely tying up traffic, as the overpasses are also unusable. The pair are called in on this one, also, and at first it appears that the same person may be responsible for the arson - all of the signs are there. But it soon becomes apparent to the investigators that there may be more to this than meets the eye, and the investigation takes a dark turn. This is where Eve and Duncan come into the picture.
In a subplot that runs through the entire book, Walker has made contact with a former adversary, to hatch a 'cunning plan'. Too many spoilers, so I'll just say it's a romp and a half!
Excellent story, well crafted and highly recommended. If you're new to the series, not a problem. This can be read as a standalone; but do yourself a favour and start from book one. You won't regret it.
April 28, 2025
Walker & Sharpe continue to deliver as a pair of specialist arson investigators, along with help of Eve Ronin & Duncan Pavone (crossovers from another great series), and the reappearance of some antiheroes from book 1 running their own B Plot. It’s a lot of great characters amid the quick and snappy writing, following a crime spree and dirty dealings. Action, danger, humor, sleuthing, murder, revenge… I’m still fully invested and obsessed with these procedural stories. Though I will note that the parallel plotlines were too disconnected. It felt odd at times, though, it does meet up at the very end.
Overall, another great book and the audiobook experience remains a favorite, using the narrators from both series where needed to give a seamless listen. I’m already anticipating another Lee Goldberg book.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher.
Overall, another great book and the audiobook experience remains a favorite, using the narrators from both series where needed to give a seamless listen. I’m already anticipating another Lee Goldberg book.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher.
December 8, 2024
This book is exactly everything it's supposed to be...but. It kinda reads like the third in a series. I don't mean it doesn't work as a stand alone, because it completely does, it's just...it really vibes tv show installment, to be honest.
May 10, 2025
This series is not in the same league as Eve Ronin. Lead characters are full of made up charisma and the "heist" story feels like the equivalent of adding stovetop dressing to Thanksgiving dinner. A bit lazy and cheap.
Still Mr Goldberg is a good writer full of clever dialogue and biting insights into police corruption. You might like it better than me.
Still Mr Goldberg is a good writer full of clever dialogue and biting insights into police corruption. You might like it better than me.
June 15, 2025
Hidden In Smoke by Lee Goldberg (2025)
Sharpe & Walker #3
xv+283-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-279
Genre: Crime Thriller, Mystery
Featuring: Praise for Ashes Never Lie, Praise for Malibu Burning, Full Bibliography for Lee Goldberg, Author's Note - Spoilers For the End of Malibu Burning, Locations and Dates, June, Japan, September, Reseda, California; Los Angeles County, California; Fires, Investigation, Sheriff Department, West Hollywood, Arsonists, Los Angeles, California; Multiple Law Enforcement, Con Artists, Firefighters, Family Dynamics, Eve Ronin, Investigations, Author’s Note & Acknowledgments, Author's Link
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Theme From S.W.A.T." by Rhythm Heritage, "Burning Down the House" by Talking Heads
Books and Authors mentioned: Gray Man series by Mark Greaney, The Turnout by Megan Abbott, The Quarry Girls by Jess Lourey, Robert B. Parker’s Bye Bye Baby - Spenser #49 by Ace Atkins, The Heathens - Quinn Colson #11 by Ace Atkins, The Last Protector Clayton White #1 by Simon Gervais, Robert Ludlum’s The Blackbriar Genesis - Blackbriar #1 by Simon Gervais, Maekawa Kunio and the Emergence of Japanese Modernist Architecture by Jonathan M. Reynolds, The Arsonist Profiles: Analyzing Arson Motives and Behavior by Ed Nordskog
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🚒👨🚒⌚️🎨
My thoughts: 🔖Page 56 of 283 Chapter Six - This is as good as the previous books, but I'm gonna roll with it and see where it goes.
It took a minute to get started but once it did it was good, but I did feel like bits were rushed, brushed over, and a bit phoned in. I didn't get the awe I experienced from the previous stories.
Recommend to others: Yes, it's a good series.
Sharpe & Walker
1 Malibu Burning (2023)
2 Ashes Never Lie (2024)
3 Hidden in Smoke (2025)
Memorable Quotes: “I will be keeping this as is,” she said. “Someday, it could be a tourist attraction, like the Gaudí houses in Barcelona.” Sharpe said, “It’s definitely gaudy.” “That’s not the ‘gaudy’ she’s talking about.” Walker set his iPhone camera to Pano mode and swiveled in place to get pictures that captured the full story of the walls. “There are different kinds?” “Antoni Gaudí,” Hadley said. “The architect whose signature style put Barcelona on the map. His Basílica de la Sagrada Família, the Park Güell, and the homes he designed are architectural treasures that draw tourists from around the world.”
Sharpe & Walker #3
xv+283-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-279
Genre: Crime Thriller, Mystery
Featuring: Praise for Ashes Never Lie, Praise for Malibu Burning, Full Bibliography for Lee Goldberg, Author's Note - Spoilers For the End of Malibu Burning, Locations and Dates, June, Japan, September, Reseda, California; Los Angeles County, California; Fires, Investigation, Sheriff Department, West Hollywood, Arsonists, Los Angeles, California; Multiple Law Enforcement, Con Artists, Firefighters, Family Dynamics, Eve Ronin, Investigations, Author’s Note & Acknowledgments, Author's Link
Rating as a movie: R for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Theme From S.W.A.T." by Rhythm Heritage, "Burning Down the House" by Talking Heads
Books and Authors mentioned: Gray Man series by Mark Greaney, The Turnout by Megan Abbott, The Quarry Girls by Jess Lourey, Robert B. Parker’s Bye Bye Baby - Spenser #49 by Ace Atkins, The Heathens - Quinn Colson #11 by Ace Atkins, The Last Protector Clayton White #1 by Simon Gervais, Robert Ludlum’s The Blackbriar Genesis - Blackbriar #1 by Simon Gervais, Maekawa Kunio and the Emergence of Japanese Modernist Architecture by Jonathan M. Reynolds, The Arsonist Profiles: Analyzing Arson Motives and Behavior by Ed Nordskog
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥🚒👨🚒⌚️🎨
My thoughts: 🔖Page 56 of 283 Chapter Six - This is as good as the previous books, but I'm gonna roll with it and see where it goes.
It took a minute to get started but once it did it was good, but I did feel like bits were rushed, brushed over, and a bit phoned in. I didn't get the awe I experienced from the previous stories.
Recommend to others: Yes, it's a good series.
Sharpe & Walker
1 Malibu Burning (2023)
2 Ashes Never Lie (2024)
3 Hidden in Smoke (2025)
Memorable Quotes: “I will be keeping this as is,” she said. “Someday, it could be a tourist attraction, like the Gaudí houses in Barcelona.” Sharpe said, “It’s definitely gaudy.” “That’s not the ‘gaudy’ she’s talking about.” Walker set his iPhone camera to Pano mode and swiveled in place to get pictures that captured the full story of the walls. “There are different kinds?” “Antoni Gaudí,” Hadley said. “The architect whose signature style put Barcelona on the map. His Basílica de la Sagrada Família, the Park Güell, and the homes he designed are architectural treasures that draw tourists from around the world.”
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