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Owen McKenna #12
Tahoe Ghost Boat
The Girl Is Effervescent With LifeGertie O'Leary is a 15-year-old girl with a messy bird's nest of red hair, a serious softball pitch, and a dream to be a movie director. She also has a $2 million price on her head.But Somebody Wants Her DeadWhen a gang led by a killer the FBI calls Mikhailo the Monster takes Gertie as the centerpiece of an extortion plot, Tahoe Detective Owen McKenna gets involved in the case.Her Parents Don't Care What HappensMcKenna finds out that Gertie's stepfather has just died in what looks like a boating accident and that Gertie's mother cares more about not losing money to blackmail than saving her daughter.It Looks Like Detective McKenna Can't Save HerAs the unwanted child of divorced, self-focused parents, Gertie has no defenders. So McKenna appoints himself her savior. But McKenna is one man up against a small army of twisted murderers whose orders are to kill the girl..."THE OLD PULP SAVVY OF (ROSS) MACDONALD...REAL SURPRISE AT THE END" Kirkus Reviews"NAIL-BITING THRILLER...BOILING POT OF DRAMA" - Gloria Sinibaldi, Tahoe Daily Tribune"A THRILL RIDE... COMPELLING" - Mary Beth Magee, Examiner .com"A GREAT MYSTERY SERIES" - J Bronder Book Reviews"ACTION-PACKED IS PUTTING IT MILDLY...FAST PACED, INTELLIGENT MYSTERY"- Sunny Solomon, Bookin' With Sunny"THE PACE WILL LEAVE YOU BREATHLESS" Wendy Schultz, Mountain Democrat"I LOVED EVERY ROLLER COASTER RIDE IN THIS THRILLER" Rating 5+ out of 5! - Harvee Lau, Book Dilettante"BORG'S WRITING IS THE STUFF OF A HOLLYWOOD ACTION BLOCKBUSTER" - Taylor Flynn, Tahoe Mountain News
405 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2014
228 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Todd Borg
29 books145 followersTodd Borg and his wife moved from Minnesota to Lake Tahoe in 1990. After his fourth Tahoe novel, he sold his business to write full time.
In addition to winning the Ben Franklin Award for Best Mystery of the Year, Todd Borg's Owen McKenna mysteries have been chosen for Top 5 Mystery lists by the prestigious Library Journal, and by Mystery News Reviewer G. Wedgwood. He's won Best Mystery and Best Thriller honors from the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association and received Best New Fiction accolades from libraries. His novels have also received starred reviews and raves in major trade journals and newspapers across the country.
Todd Borg and his wife live on Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
Series:
* Owen McKenna Mystery
In addition to winning the Ben Franklin Award for Best Mystery of the Year, Todd Borg's Owen McKenna mysteries have been chosen for Top 5 Mystery lists by the prestigious Library Journal, and by Mystery News Reviewer G. Wedgwood. He's won Best Mystery and Best Thriller honors from the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association and received Best New Fiction accolades from libraries. His novels have also received starred reviews and raves in major trade journals and newspapers across the country.
Todd Borg and his wife live on Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
Series:
* Owen McKenna Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
October 11, 2015
Bought book on offer months ago and only just got round to reading it. Surprised by how good it is, so much so that I am now looking for the first in the series as this is the twelfth!
Owen McKenna is a former detective, but unlike so many others he has respect from existing law officers. In this case he is hired by the wife of a man drowned in a boating incident on Lake Tahoe. She believes that she is being followed and blackmailed. McKenna, in taking on the case, becomes involved with her estranged family, including her very talented young daughter.
The story Is fast paced and involves an inventive recluse and what appears to be a doddery and confused old lady, both of whom play very important roles in the solving of a variety of crimes and problems. The characters are very well drawn, and descriptions of the Lake Tahoe area are terrific. There is a great deal of action, well described, particularly one in which Owen barely survives drowning. The villains are extremely tough and take some dealing with, and Owen is a character to whom I warmed quite rapidly, along with his dog, Spot, and girlfriend, Street Casey. A rattling good read, you can feel the intense cold.
Owen McKenna is a former detective, but unlike so many others he has respect from existing law officers. In this case he is hired by the wife of a man drowned in a boating incident on Lake Tahoe. She believes that she is being followed and blackmailed. McKenna, in taking on the case, becomes involved with her estranged family, including her very talented young daughter.
The story Is fast paced and involves an inventive recluse and what appears to be a doddery and confused old lady, both of whom play very important roles in the solving of a variety of crimes and problems. The characters are very well drawn, and descriptions of the Lake Tahoe area are terrific. There is a great deal of action, well described, particularly one in which Owen barely survives drowning. The villains are extremely tough and take some dealing with, and Owen is a character to whom I warmed quite rapidly, along with his dog, Spot, and girlfriend, Street Casey. A rattling good read, you can feel the intense cold.
August 11, 2014
I have read this series from the beginning and still anxiously await the next book in the series. At first, I started reading because I live near Lake Tahoe and could identify with the geographical references. Then, I got hooked on Owen McKenna and his dog Spot. It is easy to visualize the two working in our environment to help people. I like that Owen uses his brains instead of a gun to get out of tough situations. I love Owen's girlfriend Street and learn interesting things about bugs in every book.
This particular tale about a kidnapped young girl brings great lessons about people who are overlooked because of their differences to "normal" people. Yes, Gertie may have a cleft lip scar but her talents make her more than equal to physically beautiful, self-obsessed "perfect" people.
This is a book that keeps you up to finish the story and find out the ending.
This particular tale about a kidnapped young girl brings great lessons about people who are overlooked because of their differences to "normal" people. Yes, Gertie may have a cleft lip scar but her talents make her more than equal to physically beautiful, self-obsessed "perfect" people.
This is a book that keeps you up to finish the story and find out the ending.
February 8, 2017
One of the great joys of reading is stumbling across a good book that neither you nor anyone you know has ever heard of. I'd never heard of Boland (though he's written a slew of books over the past quarter century) and never heard of this novel despite a starred review in PW. I picked it up because I'm interested in evolutionary genetics and the title caught my eye. I'm glad I did. I love a good science thriller and this one is a helluva read -- a ballsy book that keeps taking unexpected turns. It's got a booby-trapped, centuries-old crypt with 3 lead-lined coffins, archaeological secrets, mind-boggling genetic mysteries, many murders and even a few explosions, a mysterious foundation, a relentless NIS investigator, and much more. I might have hesitated to tackle such a combustible farrago, but Boland plunges in and brings it off. And as a lagniappe, I learned a few things. Recommended.
October 27, 2014
First of many Borg books I will read
I loved this book. An easy read with all kinds of references I recognize as I make several trips to Tahoe each year. Thanks Red Hut for helping me discover this series!
I loved this book. An easy read with all kinds of references I recognize as I make several trips to Tahoe each year. Thanks Red Hut for helping me discover this series!
February 24, 2015
McKenna's Gold!
Good story....at times it seemed to take "forever" for McKenna to interview a suspect or get out of a "pickle"....but good prevailed. I would have no problem reading more Todd Borg books.
And I ALWAYS appreciate an author who uses minimal foul language.....
Good story....at times it seemed to take "forever" for McKenna to interview a suspect or get out of a "pickle"....but good prevailed. I would have no problem reading more Todd Borg books.
And I ALWAYS appreciate an author who uses minimal foul language.....
April 7, 2015
Good mystery story/
January 30, 2015
Awesome
As always Todd Borg thrills us to the last page! The story keeps you on edge. Love his writing and this series
As always Todd Borg thrills us to the last page! The story keeps you on edge. Love his writing and this series
May 3, 2015
It kept my attention
I read that this book had a really good rating, and was intrigued by the plot description. It did not disappoint.
I read that this book had a really good rating, and was intrigued by the plot description. It did not disappoint.
June 6, 2023
I love historical events like this.
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/bavaria-50-f...
https://numberoneboats.com/bavaria-50...
https://theboatyacht.com/bavaria-410-...
https://numberoneboats.com/bavaria-41...
Boats and historical events are what make me love reading. Could you please share the sequel books of your series?
In fact, even though I started reading very late, I'm getting more and more immersed every day.
It is a great chance to read the books of important authors. I know that. I'm looking forward to your new books.
I am writing the importance of reading a book here for friends who want to read this book. I hope it will benefit sellers and customers...
Are the top 10 benefits of reading for all ages:
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
While reading, we have to remember different characters and settings that belong to a given story. Even if you enjoy reading a book in one sitting, you have to remember the details throughout the time you take to read the book. Therefore, reading is a workout for your brain that improves memory function.
2. Reading is a Form of (free) Entertainment
Did you know that most of the popular TV shows and movies are based on books? So why not indulge in the original form of entertainment by immersing yourself in reading. Most importantly, it’s free with your Markham Public Library card.
3. Reading Improves Concentration and the Ability to Focus
We can all agree that reading cannot happen without focus and in order to fully understand the story, we have to concentrate on each page that we read. In a world where gadgets are only getting faster and shortening our attention span, we need to constantly practice concentration and focus. Reading is one of the few activities that requires your undivided attention, therefore, improving your ability to concentrate.
4. Reading Improves Literacy
Have you ever read a book where you came across an unfamiliar word? Books have the power to improve your vocabulary by introducing you to new words. The more you read, the more your vocabulary grows, along with your ability to effectively communicate. Additionally, reading improves writing skills by helping the reader understand and learn different writing styles.
5. Reading Improves Sleep
By creating a bedtime routine that includes reading, you can signal to your body that it is time to sleep. Now, more than ever, we rely on increased screen time to get through the day. Therefore, by setting your phone aside and picking up a book, you are telling your brain that it is time to quiet down. Moreover, since reading helps you de-stress, doing so right before bed helps calm your mind and anxiety and improve the quality of sleep.
6. Reading Increases General Knowledge
Books are always filled with fun and interesting facts. Whether you read fiction or non-fictions, books have the ability to provide us with information we would’ve otherwise not known. Reading a variety of topics can make you a more knowledgeable person, in turn improving your conversation skills.
7. Reading is Motivational
By reading books about protagonists who have overcome challenges, we are oftentimes encouraged to do the same. The right book can motivate you to never give up and stay positive, regardless of whether it’s a romance novel or a self-help book.
https://numberoneboats.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/
https://theboatyacht.com/bavaria-50-f...
https://numberoneboats.com/bavaria-50...
https://theboatyacht.com/bavaria-410-...
https://numberoneboats.com/bavaria-41...
January 18, 2018
Just too, too much
After the first two Tahoe books I read, I was hooked and started reading the rest in order. For the most part, despite the violence, I find the stories fascinating and enjoy learning about new things from the descriptions of things like avalanches, arson, sailing, etc. however, the level of violence sometimes is too much for me. When I got to Ghost Boat, not only was there so much violence, I thought either Todd or Owen was taking massive doses of stupid pills. Over and over in Ghost Boat, Owen gets himself into situations that the least amount of thought or planning would alleviate. He acts clueless about the levels of violence the bad guys will go to. When he talks to the “crazy lady” he misses significant clues. The worst is when he leaves Street and Gertie supposedly protected by police (or sheriff) officers, takes Spot and goes home. A ten year old could have predicted what was going to happen. He’s also very careless with Spot this time, which really made me angry. Aside from that, Owen knows one of the best dog trainers there is, so after all this time, why doesn’t he have her work with Spot instead of constantly hoping Spot will know what to do.
Other reviewers have criticized the fact that Owen doesn’t carry a gun. If they’d read previous books in the series, they would know why. Not to mention how easily a person can be disarmed, or how useless a pistol is against automatic weapons.
After the first two Tahoe books I read, I was hooked and started reading the rest in order. For the most part, despite the violence, I find the stories fascinating and enjoy learning about new things from the descriptions of things like avalanches, arson, sailing, etc. however, the level of violence sometimes is too much for me. When I got to Ghost Boat, not only was there so much violence, I thought either Todd or Owen was taking massive doses of stupid pills. Over and over in Ghost Boat, Owen gets himself into situations that the least amount of thought or planning would alleviate. He acts clueless about the levels of violence the bad guys will go to. When he talks to the “crazy lady” he misses significant clues. The worst is when he leaves Street and Gertie supposedly protected by police (or sheriff) officers, takes Spot and goes home. A ten year old could have predicted what was going to happen. He’s also very careless with Spot this time, which really made me angry. Aside from that, Owen knows one of the best dog trainers there is, so after all this time, why doesn’t he have her work with Spot instead of constantly hoping Spot will know what to do.
Other reviewers have criticized the fact that Owen doesn’t carry a gun. If they’d read previous books in the series, they would know why. Not to mention how easily a person can be disarmed, or how useless a pistol is against automatic weapons.
October 30, 2021
Although I'm a fan, I wasn't as fond of this one as I usually am with Borg's books. A man is presumably killed in an accident and he left a two million dollar insurance policy that his wife can't wait to get her hands on. But others are anxious to get the money as well so they threaten the wife and kidnap the daughter. These killers are relentless and kill anyone who gets in their way. They try to kill Owen but that doesn't work, but they don't stop. The part of this novel that I found annoying was Owen's superman strength in saving himself and others. He or someone else is attacked and gets away, then is attacked again and gets away. And so on until the end of the book. I began to feel that enough is enough and that's not a great response to a mystery thriller.
November 26, 2023
First of all, I enjoy all of Todd Borg's books and his characters Owen and Spot. I would just say this specific book wasn't one of my favorites. Although his client Nadi was clearly self-absorbed and not a good mom...I was surprised that Owen was downright rude and judgmental from the first second he met her. I was not excited about him lecturing everyone and his escape from being drowned was a bit far-fetched, his McGyvering was a bit tedious and not very realistic and poor Street...kidnapped AGAIN???? People he loved were at risk of being killed, but he stopped and had a long conversation with Lassiter rather than getting on with contacting the police to show up.
But, having said all of this....I love the series and will continue to read all of Borg's books!
But, having said all of this....I love the series and will continue to read all of Borg's books!
October 10, 2017
I really like this Owen McKenna Mystery series that takes place in Lake Tahoe. I think the author's writing gets better with each story. I liked the unique motive behind the mystery in this one. Well thought out characters. Unique new characters and he has his few that appear in each story, like nice friendships that get stronger over time. I look forward to reading more.
July 6, 2020
Love this author’s books!! They are always exciting and you learn something from every book. Also, the descriptions of Tahoe take you there!! The Ghost Book starts with action and picks up from there. Like riding a sled down the snowy hills!! I’ve read five so far, and still going. McKenna and Spot have a special place in my heart!!
August 4, 2023
So good, I read it twice!
I am completely in love with these novels so much so, I adopted a Great Dane.
When are the movies coming out? And who will play McKenna? Anyone know?
Anyway, keep up the great work Todd! I live in Dayton, NV & go up to Tahoe on occasion so maybe we’ll see you there. <3
I am completely in love with these novels so much so, I adopted a Great Dane.
When are the movies coming out? And who will play McKenna? Anyone know?
Anyway, keep up the great work Todd! I live in Dayton, NV & go up to Tahoe on occasion so maybe we’ll see you there. <3
May 27, 2025
Wow! Crazy exciting story.
Reading this book is like riding a roller coaster. You barely have time to catch your breath before another wild exciting thing happens. I was freezing several times while reading and I kept holding my breath in sympathy. This is an excellent, well written, descriptive book.
Reading this book is like riding a roller coaster. You barely have time to catch your breath before another wild exciting thing happens. I was freezing several times while reading and I kept holding my breath in sympathy. This is an excellent, well written, descriptive book.
September 9, 2018
Unique plot
Well thought out plot. I would have liked a little more character development, and a little less detail on some of the more mundane things, however I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
Well thought out plot. I would have liked a little more character development, and a little less detail on some of the more mundane things, however I enjoyed the book and would recommend it.
January 11, 2020
Owen and Spot do it again!
I have learned that each piece of detail in Todd's books come back to help save his life as well as Street's and whoever else he is trying to save. Every one Owen talks can become the suspect. Always a surprise ending. On to the next one!
I have learned that each piece of detail in Todd's books come back to help save his life as well as Street's and whoever else he is trying to save. Every one Owen talks can become the suspect. Always a surprise ending. On to the next one!
January 20, 2021
Great thriller
I am not a "thriller" story fan in general. But I absolutely love Todd Borg's stories. Yes, they are thrillers, but with characters I have grown to love with each new story. Thank you, Todd!
I am not a "thriller" story fan in general. But I absolutely love Todd Borg's stories. Yes, they are thrillers, but with characters I have grown to love with each new story. Thank you, Todd!
November 23, 2021
Non stop excitement
As a fan of Borg and Owen, I particularly liked the fast moving pace of the story.
Great characters and easy visualizations of the geography of the crime scenes and iconic Tahoe.
As a fan of Borg and Owen, I particularly liked the fast moving pace of the story.
Great characters and easy visualizations of the geography of the crime scenes and iconic Tahoe.
June 11, 2023
Another Winner
Good story that kept me turning pages. Characters, both new and recurring, contribute to each of the books. Borg always includes a component of education for his readers. Four stars because some of the story made it hard for me to suspend disbelief.
Good story that kept me turning pages. Characters, both new and recurring, contribute to each of the books. Borg always includes a component of education for his readers. Four stars because some of the story made it hard for me to suspend disbelief.
June 28, 2017
Twists & Turns
This is a book that really keeps you guessing from start to finish. I had a difficult time putting it down as it was a real roller coaster ride from start to finish.
This is a book that really keeps you guessing from start to finish. I had a difficult time putting it down as it was a real roller coaster ride from start to finish.
June 22, 2018
A page turner
Kept my interest page by page. You can see the characters vividly. Owen McKenna and Spot were “spot on”. Great ending!
Kept my interest page by page. You can see the characters vividly. Owen McKenna and Spot were “spot on”. Great ending!
August 14, 2018
Page turner
Great read will keep you turning pages. Compassion, love, a dog, bad guys and a hero. What more can you ask for?
Great read will keep you turning pages. Compassion, love, a dog, bad guys and a hero. What more can you ask for?
April 20, 2019
The death of a man in his boat leads his widow to contact Owen (PI) since she is being blackmailed in anticipation of life insurance proceeds. Great characters, fast read. I rate this a 4.7.
November 23, 2018
Loved this book. Loved the way the author took the reader all over the Tahoe area which I love. Would recommend this book highly
November 25, 2018
another improbable swashbuckler. Enjoyed it.
December 2, 2018
Another page turner! I enjoy the "travelogue" as well as the mystery thriller aspects of Borg's writing. I'm in love with Spot.
June 4, 2020
Another great Owen McKenna read.
February 7, 2021
Gipsy Boat
Ehhh... Kind of improbable but I was able to finish it after putting it down for a couple weeks. But you might like it.
Ehhh... Kind of improbable but I was able to finish it after putting it down for a couple weeks. But you might like it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews