Impervious: A Sean McPherson Novel, Book 3

Sean McPherson #3

by Laurie Buchanan

In the village of Fairhaven—nestled between Washington state’s Bellingham Bay and the Cascade Mountains, home to writers’ retreat Pines & Quill—friends and family have gathered for the union of Sean McPherson and Emma Benton. Sean has been working with the FBI and local police to help solve crimes, particularly murders bearing the mark of crime boss Georgio “The Bull” Gambino. Emma, who has just learned to walk again, has begun to feel at home and hopes to one day raise a family.

But just as the festivities begin and corks fly, an explosion shatters everything, killing one and injuring others. From Bellingham to San Francisco and New Orleans, the chase is on to discover who’s dead set on ensuring the newlyweds don’t live happily ever after.

The writers currently in residence at Pines & Quill include a vineyard owner, a Bryn Mawr College professor, a special education teacher accompanied by her seeing-eye dog, and an intuitive who can’t—or won’t—identify the killer. Gambino has a knack for finding people in even the most inaccessible places to do his bidding. Could one of the writers be on his payroll?

Genres: Thriller, Suspense, Audiobook, Mystery, Fiction, Detective, Crime

Audible Audio

Published February 13, 2024

About the author

Laurie Buchanan writes the critically acclaimed Sean McPherson novels—pulse-pounding crime thrillers with heart-stopping twists. Plunge into the depths of malice, the unwavering quest for justice, and high-stakes consequences.

Be sure to follow Laurie on BookBub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lauri...

Buchanan's books have won multiple awards, including a Foreword INDIES Book of the Year gold, an International Book Award gold, a National Indie Excellence Award, and a PenCraft Aaward for Literary Excellence; she has also been a finalist in the Crime Fiction/Suspense Eric Hoffer Awards and the CIBA Clue Book Awards.

A cross between Dr. Dolittle, Nanny McPhee, and a type-A Buddhist, Laurie is an active listener, observer of details, payer of attention, reader and writer of books, kindness enthusiast, and red licorice aficionado.

Laurie and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest, where she enjoys long walks, bicycling, camping, and photography—because sometimes the best word choice is a picture.

To learn more, please visit Laurie's website at www.lauriebuchanan.com.

Reviews

[Kizzie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impervious, by Laurie Buchanan

Readers are enveloped swiftly into the inviting ambiance and rhythm of life at Pines & Quill, a residential writing retreat in the Pacific Northwest.

Mystery author Louise Penny’s beloved characters like Inspector Gamache, will need to move over to make room for Laurie Buchanan’s endearing Private Investigator Sean (Mick) McPherson, his wife Emma; retreat owners Niall and Libby, and my favorite—the Irish wolfhound, Hemingway!

Buchanan’s novels teeter between a comfy balm of place and relationships—even to the point of familiarity—including local Fairhaven shops like Current & Furbish—to straining on the edge of one’s nerves as criminal genius Georgio “The Bull” Gambino’s evil schemes unfold as his minions do his bidding. Like Buchanan’s first two McPherson novels Indelible and Iconoclast, Impervious is not for those who struggle with disturbing images. Gambino’s plans and actions are vile.

The reader perseveres in cheering for the protagonists, trusting in the end, justice will prevail. Yet, at what cost?

[KerryO · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mick and Emma get married with a bang! This series gets better with each book as Mick and friends attempt to find and take down Georgio Gambino’s gang who have targeted Mick and his family members. Great descriptions of the scenery and meals at the Pines & Quill are an added treat!

[Reeca Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sean and Emma are getting married. They have the perfect setting of Pines and Quill, a writing retreat in the mountains of Washington State. But, just as the reception gets into full swing an explosion rocks their world and threatens their new life together.

There is so much that I love about this series. I love the atmospheric setting of Pines and Quill. I love the dog Hemingway. But most of all, I love Sean McPherson. He is smart, kind and charismatic! And he has met the love of his life, Emma. These two are fantastic together!

This story had me loving the chase! I swear I finished this in one day! The intensity and the guessing game is on target to keep you glued to the pages.

I do think this is my favorite book out of the three. I do recommend reading them in order but it’s not mandatory. You can see my reviews here: Indelible , Iconoclast.

Need a thriller with fabulous characters…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the author for a honest review.

[Branita J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the series. I do recommend reading them in order, but it's not a must. Laurie Buchanan gives enough of the back story in each book that you get the gist of what is going on. I enjoyed the books. However, I recommend splitting them up so you don't read one right after the other. There are similar wording and phrases used in all the books. if you want a quick, easy read that doesn't stress you to read it, then this book is for you. I was able to finish it in one night. it's an enjoyable read, just not a mind-blowing one. I will be reading the 4th book because I just have to know what happens next.

Thank you to BookSiren, Sparkpress, and Laurie Buchanan for this opportunity to read this ARC.

[Stacey Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laurie Buchanan’s third novel in the Sean McPherson series, “Impervious” is another great addition. This series is so well written no entertaining.

For this third novel, we are back with the ebb and flow of the Pines and Quill writers’ retreat located in the Pacific Northwest. We have Sean working with the police to solve crimes, focusing on those murders associated with the Crime Boss Gambino. Emma, thankfully, has learned to walk again, and Sean and Emma get married. Of course, we have a new group of writers’ taking up residence at the retreat. As those who have read this series the writers in residence all have issues and reasons for coming, which draws the reader

Each of these novels has a crime(s) to solve and we see the insidiousness of the ‘bad’ guys. The novels are not overly violent, yet carry an edge, the suspense is constant, and each sends with a cliffhanger. In this 3rd novel we see the return of a previous character to aid in the investigation. All three novels are character driven, the ambiance and mood of Pines and Quill, is terrific, and this reader is left satisfied at each ending. However, with that being said, I’m not real patient in waiting for the next book in the series! Fortunately for me, I was able to enjoy the novels one after the other, and now we must wait for the next.

Of course, let’s not fail to mention Hemingway, the show stealer and one of the best characters.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had enjoyed the previous two books Indelible and Iconoclast in this series, it worked as a suspenseful thriller. I enjoyed what was going on and thought it was a wonderfully done thriller. The characters were what I was hoping for and I really enjoyed reading this.

"Alice, don’t interrupt me.” He points at Mick and Emma. “They’ve got their whole lives ahead of them. Kevin’s life was full of promise. Until yesterday, he had his whole life in front of him too.” Burying his face in his hands, the man bends over his thighs. His anger melts into grief as his shoulders shake with sobs."

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Colleen Fernandes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie Buchanan has once again hit it out of the ballpark with the latest in the Sean McPherson series. This is a fast paced book and continues the suspense series set at Pines & Quill, a writing retreat overlooking Bellingham Bay in Washington state. The love story between Sean and Emma is so beautiful and we learn that Emma has a skill that comes in handy in this book. One of the characters who stayed in the cottages from the first book comes back to help with the investigation and I hope she will be a continuing character. I really want to stay at one of the cottages at Pines & Quill, eat Niall’s delicious meals and enjoy sitting in the Ink Well room after dinner. And I so want to pet Hemingway. These books need to be read in order as they are not stand alone books. If you read Indelible which is the first book, I know you will be hooked on this series. We are always left with a cliff hanger and this one was no exception. I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author and was only asked to provide an honest review which this is. I absolutely love the series!

[Marian Beaman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Georgio “The Bull” Gambino believes he and his minions are “impervious” to the good guys, but author Laurie Buchanan persuades her readers to think otherwise. In Impervious, the third book in the Sean McPherson series, the author weaves a plot that glitters with alligator eyes and unsheathed Glocks. Along the way, she gives new meaning to the phrases “dressed to kill” and “forensic intuitive.” Witness the unfolding of more mystery, murder, and mayhem in a New Orleans bayou setting along with the familiar, and beloved, Pines and Quill Writers’ Retreat, nestled in the Pacific Northwest. Happily, amidst a high body count and blood-curdling suspense, the author hints at some relief: the promise of a Blessed Event in her fourth book, Iniquity. Cheers to that!

[Jamele (BookswithJams) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Sean McPherson series and it is my favorite so far. These books just keep getting better, and this one starts off with Sean and Emma getting married but the crime boss Gambino is not done, so things get sideways pretty fast. I flew through this one, it was probably the most intense of the three, and I loved it so much. Hemingway is by far the best character in this series, and he was key in this book. I do think it is best to read the prior books in this series to have the full benefits here in this one, BUT it can be read as a standalone if you prefer.

Thank you to BookSparks and the author for the free copy to review.

[Julie Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impervious is a title befitting its story. Throughout the book, one repeatedly experiences just how impervious evil can be. It's frightening, tense, frustrating, and gut-churning. Yet, Impervious is ultimately about the goodness of people who are thrown into the midst of unthinkable evil. It's about their resilience, hopefulness, caring, and respect for life and justice. I love Buchanan's intuitive skills at overcoming her thriller books' evil with their goodness. I need the goodness.

[Joy Ribar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn’t love to hate a black-hearted villain? Impervious, the third in the Sean McPherson series by Laurie Buchanan, makes you live every pulse-racing moment, as you follow the ruthless killer, praying there will be no more victims. Buchanan’s writing tantalizes all your emotions: there are sweet moments to savor and descriptions for all the senses. But, lurking in the shadows, the dark mind of a devious killer drives the plot, threatening every character you’ve come to call your friend.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Falling into line in the Sean McPherson series of Indelible and Iconoclast, Impervious follows the story of family and friends at the lovely Pines and Quill writers resort in Fairhaven, Washington in their quest to find a killer. It is action packed, with another surprise coming at every corner. It brings out every emotion! A true page turner that will keep you reading until the wee hours. It blends beautifully into her next book, Iniquity. Can't wait to read that one!

[Marianne Lile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enthralling! This third book in the Sean McPherson series finds our favorite characters pursuing a cold-blooded killer in New Orleans, San Francisco and my favorite writing retreat in Bellingham, WA.
The spider in this web pulls many strings, casting destruction from the first pages as Emma and Sean try to stay ahead of their pursuer. Gripping and lively, the Sean McPherson series grows more interesting with each book.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had to stop reading and try the recipe for cookies with only 3 ingredients (have to read this book to get the recipe!). I proceeded to non-stop read Impervious while snacking on my new treat! Laurie Buchanan has done it again in conjuring up scents and sights of comfort and joy despite the nail biting intrigue and sadness that evil causes.

[Teddie Sine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Laurie Buchanan knows how to deliver a story that keeps readers coming back for more! Impervious packs a punch with intrigue, mystery and shockingly evil elements. As with her first two novels in this series, I found myself putting off sleep as I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait for book four!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Cliffhangers around every bend. It got so I would get filled with anxiety for fear of who would be killed next. And after reading the Prologue for book 4...it's a good thing I will have time to calm myself before diving into INIQUITY!!!

[Mary Elizabeth Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book by Buchanan, I love the fast paced action in this book, the characters are memorable and fun to follow. Love the map of the Area which is easy to follow and know where the action is in this book. Can't wait for the next book in this series.

[Colette B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another nonstop adventure in this series. It's hard to put down and leaves you wanting the next book now to see what happens! I get lost in Laurie's descriptive writing like I am right there with the characters. Looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Debra Gaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page turner by author Laurie Buchanan! Curiosity and suspense are woven into every page. Her books are better than potato chips. I can’t put the book down until I read the last suspenseful page.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely the high octane offering of the Sean McPherson series!

Read full review in the 2023 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[BookishDramas · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars for this book.

This is my first book with this author. The title of the novel and the genre attracted me to this book.

The book is a part of a series which makes this a contiguous story. This means that there have been two prior stories that have come out and which people have read and probably appreciated. It also means for me that Laurie has a clear idea where she wants her stories to move and she is working hard on developing the McPherson universe and plotting more stories for the eco-system.

The locales in Washington district, Fairhaven is well described and provides the reader clear images of the locality and its views. Pines & Quill overlooking Bellingham Bay, the location of much of the action in this book is described lovingly and seems a place that I would love to visit, although it is a writers retreat. The book provides some great descriptions of the scenic beauty of the area. The meal items and drinks concocted by Laurie through the character of Niall at the Pines & Quill kitchen are rare treats and made me raid my fridge multiple times during the course of reading this book. The food made a welcome relief against the action and sometimes seemed almost a parallel story in itself.

The love story at the heart of this book between the titular character and Emma is also something to cherish, the love story between Sean's parents is undercut, the one between Niall and Sean's sister Libby is beautiful. The easy camaraderie between the principal characters all present a feeling of comfort and family that belies the story's underlying viciousness.

The story is a vengeance thriller and the story starts with the villain plotting the downfall of the protagonist & family. The story follows up to Sean & Emma's marriage program which gets marred by a car explosion leading to the death of a NPC, the valet. Gambino the prime mover behind this vengeful drama keeps orchestrating situations to kill the couple. He is a back room planner who gets his minions to do the dirty work and we have his protégé Toni Bianco the prima donna of this piece, who displays psychopathic behavior and thrills in the kills liking to be at the thick of things. She is also with the Bellingham police one of many other Gambino moles in the department albeit a senior one aggressively climbing his organizational ladder.

A lower back tattoo is the only common thread between the moles and killers who owe their fealty to Gambino. The action spills over till San Francisco and New Orleans and with more than adequate bloodbath the book reaches a satisfactory conclusion and then there is a "Sorry Mario, the princess is in another castle", ending for the next book in the series. Gambino is still out there waiting to renew his vengeance.

Laurie can be appreciated for the way she has laid out the story and kept ticking all the relevant boxes, the story for the majority of the book flows along with not much roadblocks and/or hiccups.

I have tried to put some of what put me off this book and resulted in my rating here below and taking nothing away from the authors efforts, these are my list of what did not meet my expectations in this novel.

This book is listed as "can be read as a standalone novel" but in the initial pages and right through the book, there are enough acknowledgements to the previous adventure(s) to put off a new reader, especially in the first quarter of the book. The back stories and references seem to pop up all over the place and in several instances incidents that happen in this book are repeated later on verbatim and which for a mystery thriller is a low point for the reader.

This almost put me off reading this book when I started over a week back but I braved the pages and completed the book in around a week of casual reading.

The book starts off with a comparison of the wrecker in chief here Gambino as an criminal mastermind of the Machiavellian kind like Professor Moriarty. This was a massive statement upfront and raised my expectations for this book to stratospheric levels, not a great ploy when compared to what ultimately comes out in the following 300+ pages. The planning if anything by Gambino "The Bull" is not consistent as we only see him stating "get it done" as final order and the novel only showcases him as a ruthless Mafioso whose people are terminated at his whim and fancy. Most of the assassination attempts are lackluster at best because they never really work. A car bomb for a marriage hoping that the owner will be the only person handling it when there is family as well as valet parking available. A policeperson setting up the bomb, it seemed Gambino only employs police persons and not others. The entire PD seems to be on the take. And in a marriage function you cannot have someone local, that too a policeman who could be identified later on, so planning is a bust. This test case shows lack of proper planning and more consistent with the forced brute force approach.

Gambino is no Moriarty but he is ruthless. He orders death of his minions if they fail, if they get caught and his people have a suitable amount of dread for their boss.

The number of people in the PD who are on the take seems quite high but that's fine if one considers that Gambino operates in a vast market but how is the Bellingham PD employing so many psycho's and sociopaths who are willing to kill for their mob boss as a part of their corruption, seems like overkill. I don't know how they hire people in the PD there in Washington state but there must be some process to filter out people and while people may be corrupt but only to the extent of sharing/leaking information, killing not so much, that requires a very different kind of person.

The book is also quite predictable in its story and does not offer anything fresh as a mystery. It is a standard vengeance drama in action.

The killings and their fallouts are handled beautifully and that along with the family related parts were for me what has made this book rise above the mundane and reach the readable category. I cannot find fault in the pace of the story and the way the characters endear themselves to the memory. A stronger handling of the planning of the murders/attempts and toning down on the initial comparison with Doyle's Moriarty, thereby lowering expectations of the reader would have made this a much more superb experience.

I commend the team on this book and recommend it for readers who want a racy story where there is not much of detection or mystery. I would also ask readers to catch up with the previous titles so as to make reading this book a better experience. There is enough blood in the story for most people to enjoy.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impervious is the third book in the Sean McPherson series.

This one begins with Georgio "The Bull" Gambino believing and comparing himself to be similar to Moriarty as indestructible criminal master minds. He sits and pulls the strings in order to eliminate his quarry.

Friends and family have gathered for the union of Sean McPherson and Emma Benton. But as the ceremony begins, an explosion turns a happy day into a terrifying experience. Danger will be an arm's length away as the newlyweds begin their new lives together.

This book is just as exciting as the previous two books. It picks up where book two left off and starts off with a bang! The author has a way of writing that is so special that she invites the reader into the story. She really writes in such a way that I want to go visit the Pines & Quill to enjoy the atmosphere she has created.

One thing I haven't mentioned before is that each chapter in all the books start with a helpful writing thought from published authors. All of them are very interesting and well as encouraging which adds to the uniqueness of this series.

This is a totally riveting as well as engaging series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I don't want it to end.

I received an ARC from BookSirens for an unbiased review.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I deeply enjoy this book series. It was a surprise find for me. This was a digital readers copy I received from Book Sirens. I can’t wait to get my hands on book 4.

Some of the descriptions used are repetitive, especially when discussing the tragedy that injured Mick; the main character. It did become rather repetitive, almost like copy and paste. Some of the previous storylines that continued to this book, the way things were described were repetitious as well. One location on the story was El Cañón del Diablo—The Devil’s Canyon, nearly every time it was mentioned, it was always referred to as El Cañón del Diablo—The Devil’s Canyon. It got a little old. It would have been sufficient just saying El Cañón del Diablo.

I really enjoy the continued story arc of Gambino, and how it keeps delving deeper and deeper.

You really feel the characters heartache at the tragedies that unfold. Each book could probably be a standalone, however they continuation from book to book is very well written as well.

I love the concept of new writers in residence each book because it keeps the story moving along and helps create and establish a timeline.

I also loved how in this book, we explored the dog Hemmingway more, I do hope we see love in his future.

Here’s to book 4, can’t wait.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner for Laurie Buchanan, Imprevious is a continuation in the Sean McPherson series. The characters here are realistic, fully fleshed, and relatable. The core group of characters has become like family friends after 3 books. And Hemmingway, the Irish Wolfhound, has stolen my heart. There is plenty of action and this is an excellent police procedural/thriller/crime mystery/PI investigation all rolled into one. If you enjoy any of those genres, you will enjoy Ms. Buchanan's stories.

I only have one small criticism and it's one I've expressed before. Ms. Buchanan doesn't seem to have any faith in the length of her readers' memories. Information is repeated, many times verbatim, over and over. One could say that is because the story is told from multiple viewpoints, so different characters are thinking/talking about the same events. While that is true, at least change up the phrasing a bit so that it's not exactly the same. Obviously, this isn't a major problem for me as it didn't impact my rating at all. It's just a minor irritation that I could do without. However, I am still looking forward to the next book and highly recommend this series.

I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this is my honest opinion.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie's done it again! Impervious is amazing! Pines and Quill is hosting more writers as Sean and Emma are getting married! But when a valet tries to move Sean's jeep and it blows up, we know Gambino is still after either Sean or Emma and so the group is still on their toes. Niall is still trying to come to terms with his brother's death. So many deaths in such a tranquil setting! And Gambino has his fingers in other cities as well! Sean and Emma set out on their honeymoon to New Orleans and get a gift basket at their hotel with tickets to see the bayou, and set off the next morning. Emma gets the surprise of her life and has to save hers and Sean's lives from what turns out to be another of Gambino's goons! How many places and how many times will he keep trying for them?!? Who else is in his crossfire? Such a great read! Looking forward to the next one mentioned!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Valerie Biel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Laurie Buchanan continues to be a master of suspense in book three of her Sean McPherson series. “Impervious” begins with a happy wedding day, which soon turns deadly (but you’ll get no spoilers here about the victims.) One shocking death after another will keep you reeling as the plot twists with deadly motivations in three locations – New Orleans, San Francisco and at the Pines & Quill writing retreat. I’m always partial to an author who is brave enough to kill off characters . . . it’s truly the secret-sauce ingredient to writing compelling suspense novels and Buchanan nails it every time. As always, we’re treated to excellent plotting, well-developed characters, perfectly penned dialogue, and beautifully described settings that combine for a delicious read. This is most definitely another book you won’t be able to put down! (And, I must add a note about the book’s gorgeous formatting. I’m in love with the map and Pines & Quill location artwork at the beginning as well as the chapter heading artwork which is slightly ominous.)

[Lynda Custer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impervious is the third Sean ‘Mick’ McPherson Novel. Set in the zen atmosphere of the Pines & Quill, a writing retreat in Fairhaven, Washington. However, the reader fast realizes that even idyllic settings can be deceptive.

Sean ‘Mick’ who has a law enforcement background has recently become a licensed private investigator. This will allow him to assist in local as well as federal cases. Currently, his first case is the investigation that involves the disappearance of a brother and sister.

Mick and Emily, recently married, are off to New Orleans on their honeymoon filled with love that is turned to danger and sorrow.

Laurie Buchanan is an expert at creating a hard-edged atmosphere permeated with intrigue, questions, suspense and fear. I become impatient as I look forward to reading her next novel. I want to find the answers and vengeance for the crimes that are committed.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Regina Buttner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laurie Buchanan amps up the intrigue in this new addition to her detective series. The moody Pacific Northwest setting is the perfect backdrop for this twisting tale of revenge. Behind the scenes, crime boss "The Bull" Gambino directs his henchmen to perpetrate evil on the residents of Pines & Quill, but ex-cop Sean "Mick" McPherson and his lovely (and unexpectedly kickass!) new bride Emma are hot on his trail. Despite a psychopathic dirty cop, a highly talented male/female impersonator, and multiple murders to contend with, the newlyweds are able to steal a few rejuvenating moments with friends and family at the rustic writing retreat, where there's enough hearty gourmet food and genuine camaraderie to satisfy anyone's soul. Don't miss this one!

[AM SMOLANDER · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this thrilling and exciting read. I liked the setting and reading about a writer’s retreat but I also liked the police procedural element as the police detectives and FBI agents tried to catch the killers in this novel.

I liked the main characters and the four legged companions too. It was a very entertaining read which grabbed my attention and interest from page one and held it to the end.

I’m giving this novel 4 stars as I’m sure other readers will enjoy reading it especially if they like reading crime novels and thrillers.

[Lola · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the beginning I thought that Mick and Emma were marring to soon and then I realized I’ve read two books to get to this point so maybe I t’s not that soon.

Third time is definitely a charm. This is so far the best of the three available Sean McPherson books. Even though the copy paste is still present at times, the authors style has improved lots, the plot is amazing and the characters had grown to be so relatable that I have starting to think of them as long time friends and I’m still pissed the she killed one of them (I’m not spoiling).

Thanks to BookSirens and Laurie Buchanan for the opportunity to read the book as an ARC Can’t hardly wait for the next book to come out