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Dead Money: A Novel
“A gripping thriller that pulls back the curtain on the secret world of tech billionaires.”—Time (100 Must-Read Books of 2025)
“A stone-cold banger of a novel—a twisty journey through Silicon Valley’s dark side, wrapped in a stunning mystery package with some wild surprises along the way.”—Blake Crouch, New York Times bestselling author of Dark Matter
A WASHINGTON POST AND CRIMEREADS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
DON’T CALL ME A FIXER. THIS ISN’T HBO.
As the unofficial “problem solver” for Silicon Valley’s most ruthless venture capitalist, Mackenzie Clyde’s an expert at wrangling tech bros and their multimillions—even as her own shot at a windfall remains just out of reach.
But now she’s playing for higher stakes. Because the lightning-rod CEO of tech’s hottest startup has just been murdered, leaving behind billions in “dead money” frozen in his will—and Mackenzie’s boss is the company’s chief investor.
With a fortune on the line and the official investigation going nowhere, it’s up to Mackenzie to step in and resolve things, fast.
Mackenzie’s a lawyer, not a detective. Cracking this fiendishly clever killing, with its list of suspects that reads like a who’s-who of Valley power players, should be way out of her league.
Except Mackenzie’s used to being underestimated. In fact, she’s counting on it.
“Terrific . . . filled with jaw-dropping twists and turns . . . an unpredictable nesting-box of surprises.”—The New York Times Book Review (Best Thrillers of the Year So Far)
“A stone-cold banger of a novel—a twisty journey through Silicon Valley’s dark side, wrapped in a stunning mystery package with some wild surprises along the way.”—Blake Crouch, New York Times bestselling author of Dark Matter
A WASHINGTON POST AND CRIMEREADS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
DON’T CALL ME A FIXER. THIS ISN’T HBO.
As the unofficial “problem solver” for Silicon Valley’s most ruthless venture capitalist, Mackenzie Clyde’s an expert at wrangling tech bros and their multimillions—even as her own shot at a windfall remains just out of reach.
But now she’s playing for higher stakes. Because the lightning-rod CEO of tech’s hottest startup has just been murdered, leaving behind billions in “dead money” frozen in his will—and Mackenzie’s boss is the company’s chief investor.
With a fortune on the line and the official investigation going nowhere, it’s up to Mackenzie to step in and resolve things, fast.
Mackenzie’s a lawyer, not a detective. Cracking this fiendishly clever killing, with its list of suspects that reads like a who’s-who of Valley power players, should be way out of her league.
Except Mackenzie’s used to being underestimated. In fact, she’s counting on it.
“Terrific . . . filled with jaw-dropping twists and turns . . . an unpredictable nesting-box of surprises.”—The New York Times Book Review (Best Thrillers of the Year So Far)
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First published January 28, 2025
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About the author
Jakob Kerr
2 books221 followersJakob Kerr is the author of Dead Money, coming soon from Bantam Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House.
In addition to his work as an author, Jakob is a lawyer and communications executive in San Francisco's tech industry. He was one of the first employees at Airbnb and spent a decade shepherding the company from tiny startup to global phenomenon. Jakob has also been a bartender, sportswriter, and—for one disastrous afternoon—the driver of an ice cream truck.
In addition to his work as an author, Jakob is a lawyer and communications executive in San Francisco's tech industry. He was one of the first employees at Airbnb and spent a decade shepherding the company from tiny startup to global phenomenon. Jakob has also been a bartender, sportswriter, and—for one disastrous afternoon—the driver of an ice cream truck.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,364 reviews
January 10, 2025
What a twisty and twisted thriller! Jakob Kerr’s debut novel
Dead Money
is fascinating, dark, and full of surprises. Mackenzie Clyde is the Director of Investigations for Hammersmith Venture. Her unofficial job is as a problem solver for the ruthless venture capitalist Roger Hammersmith. When the Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of tech’s hottest startup, Trevor Canon, is found murdered and the San Francisco police are making no progress, Roger wants Mackenzie to resolve things.
Unfortunately for Roger (and others), Trevor made some changes recently resulting in leaving behind billions in dead money frozen in his will. Roger has a fortune on the line. While Mackenzie is not a homicide detective, Roger manages to get her attached to the Federal Bureau of Investigation task force when they take over the case. While this sounds unlikely, all will be revealed in time.
Mackenzie is a lawyer and a problem solver who is confident and logical. She uses flattery as a weapon, but it doesn’t come easily. When that doesn’t work, she goes to her reserve skillsets. The other characters have depth as well and readers learn more about them throughout the novel.
It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel. The intricacies in the plot and the twists are fascinating. The novel starts 22 days after Trevor Canon’s murder, and occasionally goes back and forth in time. While this isn’t my favorite style of writing, it allows readers to gain more background on some of the characters and starts to set the stage for some of the twists in the plot.
I was intrigued by the characters, the technology start-up world, and the look at venture capitalists. As the investigation unfolds, additional motives and opportunities for the murder are discovered. The author does a great job on characterization and plotting, but I wanted a little more world-building to make it seem like San Francisco. There were also a few minor inconsistencies that could be cleaned up, but didn’t adversely affect the story for me. What an ending! While there are hints as a reader gets closer to the end, there are still some surprises along the way.
Overall, this was a twisty, fast-paced, and engrossing look at the world of venture capitalists and the tech industry mixed with a murder investigation. It was fascinating to watch the story unfold and see the secrets that are revealed. The ending was a wake-up call that makes you wonder what’s next. Will this become a series? It has the potential.
Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine – Bantam and Jakob Kerr provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 28, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.06 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Unfortunately for Roger (and others), Trevor made some changes recently resulting in leaving behind billions in dead money frozen in his will. Roger has a fortune on the line. While Mackenzie is not a homicide detective, Roger manages to get her attached to the Federal Bureau of Investigation task force when they take over the case. While this sounds unlikely, all will be revealed in time.
Mackenzie is a lawyer and a problem solver who is confident and logical. She uses flattery as a weapon, but it doesn’t come easily. When that doesn’t work, she goes to her reserve skillsets. The other characters have depth as well and readers learn more about them throughout the novel.
It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel. The intricacies in the plot and the twists are fascinating. The novel starts 22 days after Trevor Canon’s murder, and occasionally goes back and forth in time. While this isn’t my favorite style of writing, it allows readers to gain more background on some of the characters and starts to set the stage for some of the twists in the plot.
I was intrigued by the characters, the technology start-up world, and the look at venture capitalists. As the investigation unfolds, additional motives and opportunities for the murder are discovered. The author does a great job on characterization and plotting, but I wanted a little more world-building to make it seem like San Francisco. There were also a few minor inconsistencies that could be cleaned up, but didn’t adversely affect the story for me. What an ending! While there are hints as a reader gets closer to the end, there are still some surprises along the way.
Overall, this was a twisty, fast-paced, and engrossing look at the world of venture capitalists and the tech industry mixed with a murder investigation. It was fascinating to watch the story unfold and see the secrets that are revealed. The ending was a wake-up call that makes you wonder what’s next. Will this become a series? It has the potential.
Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine – Bantam and Jakob Kerr provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 28, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------
My 4.06 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
March 7, 2025
I simply could not get enough of the unbelievably twisty, original plot within Dead Money. From the well-developed protagonist who I couldn’t help but root for to the tech world milieu, even the length of this novel didn’t put me off even the slightest. You see, there simply was no seeing behind the deftly woven curtain. Thanks to a finely layered timeline with dozens of flashbacks, the stage was set to deliver one truly earth-shattering twist. One that even I—a well-versed armchair sleuthing sleuth—couldn’t put together before the perfectly timed revelation. With definite Hitchcockian flare, they both came out of left field but also felt perfectly teed up once they were revealed.
The setting and characterization were also simply sublime. Taking place in Silicon Valley with a cast of mostly tech bros, it felt vividly true-to-life and gave me the feel of living out what I see on the news. At the same time, the subplot featuring Mackenzie laid the groundwork for the upcoming twists without revealing too much. Between the two timelines, the plot picked up steam with undeniable ease. So much so, in fact, that I was shocked to learn that this was Kerr’s debut novel. Somewhere between crime fiction and thriller, he managed to spin a tale infused with both unbridled intrigue and ratcheting suspense. The best bit, however, was easily the unguessable conclusion. I mean, I did not see that one coming at all.
I do have to mention, though, that I did have to pay close attention to the web of secrets and lies. Along with a somewhat tech-heavy premise that required some level of knowledge, this was not a book that you could read with only half of your brain. That, of course, wasn’t a problem since I found myself riveted to the pages from the very first word. It was so good, in fact, that I had a hard time putting it down and wholeheartedly wished that I could have ignored all of my adulting until it was over.
All said and done, I found this book addictive, compelling, and perfectly plotted. Set up ideally for a much-wanted sequel, I’m crossing my fingers and toes that it will come into being. Not only that, but I’d be over the moon if this became a movie one day soon. With all of the drama and action that Hollywood could want, it would most definitely be just as big of a hit as the novel itself is sure to become. So if you’re looking for a book with a compulsively readable, complex plot and a badass heroine that will blow you away, you need not search any further—you’ve found it right here. After all, it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In her job as unofficial “problem solver” for Silicon Valley’s most ruthless venture capitalist, Mackenzie Clyde’s gotten used to playing for high stakes. Even if none of those tech-bro millions she’s so good at wrangling ever make it into her pockets.
But this time, she’s in way over her head—or so it seems.
The lightning-rod CEO of tech’s hottest startup has just been murdered, leaving behind billions in “dead money” frozen in his will. As the company’s chief investor, Mackenzie’s boss has a fortune on the line—and with the police treading water, it’s up to Mackenzie to step up and resolve things, fast.
Mackenzie’s a lawyer, not a detective. Cracking this fiendishly clever killing, with its list of suspects that reads like a who’s-who of Valley power players, should be way out of her league.
Except that Mackenzie’s used to being underestimated. In fact, she’s counting on it.
Because the way she sees it, this isn’t an investigation. It’s an opportunity. And she’ll do anything it takes to seize it.
Anything at all.
Thank you to Jakob Kerr and Random House - Bantam for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 28, 2025 (out now)
Content warning: stalking, threatening messages, cancer, gun violence, mention of: financial crimes
The setting and characterization were also simply sublime. Taking place in Silicon Valley with a cast of mostly tech bros, it felt vividly true-to-life and gave me the feel of living out what I see on the news. At the same time, the subplot featuring Mackenzie laid the groundwork for the upcoming twists without revealing too much. Between the two timelines, the plot picked up steam with undeniable ease. So much so, in fact, that I was shocked to learn that this was Kerr’s debut novel. Somewhere between crime fiction and thriller, he managed to spin a tale infused with both unbridled intrigue and ratcheting suspense. The best bit, however, was easily the unguessable conclusion. I mean, I did not see that one coming at all.
I do have to mention, though, that I did have to pay close attention to the web of secrets and lies. Along with a somewhat tech-heavy premise that required some level of knowledge, this was not a book that you could read with only half of your brain. That, of course, wasn’t a problem since I found myself riveted to the pages from the very first word. It was so good, in fact, that I had a hard time putting it down and wholeheartedly wished that I could have ignored all of my adulting until it was over.
All said and done, I found this book addictive, compelling, and perfectly plotted. Set up ideally for a much-wanted sequel, I’m crossing my fingers and toes that it will come into being. Not only that, but I’d be over the moon if this became a movie one day soon. With all of the drama and action that Hollywood could want, it would most definitely be just as big of a hit as the novel itself is sure to become. So if you’re looking for a book with a compulsively readable, complex plot and a badass heroine that will blow you away, you need not search any further—you’ve found it right here. After all, it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In her job as unofficial “problem solver” for Silicon Valley’s most ruthless venture capitalist, Mackenzie Clyde’s gotten used to playing for high stakes. Even if none of those tech-bro millions she’s so good at wrangling ever make it into her pockets.
But this time, she’s in way over her head—or so it seems.
The lightning-rod CEO of tech’s hottest startup has just been murdered, leaving behind billions in “dead money” frozen in his will. As the company’s chief investor, Mackenzie’s boss has a fortune on the line—and with the police treading water, it’s up to Mackenzie to step up and resolve things, fast.
Mackenzie’s a lawyer, not a detective. Cracking this fiendishly clever killing, with its list of suspects that reads like a who’s-who of Valley power players, should be way out of her league.
Except that Mackenzie’s used to being underestimated. In fact, she’s counting on it.
Because the way she sees it, this isn’t an investigation. It’s an opportunity. And she’ll do anything it takes to seize it.
Anything at all.
Thank you to Jakob Kerr and Random House - Bantam for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 28, 2025 (out now)
Content warning: stalking, threatening messages, cancer, gun violence, mention of: financial crimes
September 13, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2
Jakob Kerr came out swinging and hit the first pitch out of the park. This book kicked ass. It was Blake Crouchy in its techno thrillerness. Its characters had depth and were likable and interesting. It was relentless in its pace. It was flawless in its storytelling structure. It was simply riveting from front to back cover.
Hard to believe that this was a debut, but if this was Kerr working out his beginner kinks, I can’t wait to see what a finished product looks like…
Jakob Kerr came out swinging and hit the first pitch out of the park. This book kicked ass. It was Blake Crouchy in its techno thrillerness. Its characters had depth and were likable and interesting. It was relentless in its pace. It was flawless in its storytelling structure. It was simply riveting from front to back cover.
Hard to believe that this was a debut, but if this was Kerr working out his beginner kinks, I can’t wait to see what a finished product looks like…
November 15, 2025
5.5 stars.
It is hard to wrap my mind around the fact that Dead Money is Jakob Kerr's debut novel. If someone told me it was his fiftieth publication it would have been more believable. Just, wow.
More to come.. I couldn't put this down and my eyes need to be refreshed.
It is hard to wrap my mind around the fact that Dead Money is Jakob Kerr's debut novel. If someone told me it was his fiftieth publication it would have been more believable. Just, wow.
More to come.. I couldn't put this down and my eyes need to be refreshed.
February 9, 2025
Phenomenal debut 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
🔥🔥 Holy-Mother-Of-Gawd 🔥🔥
Huge THANKS to @randomhouse @penguinrandomhouse #partner
@bantambooksuk for the #gifted copy!
🔥 BANGER ALERT 🔥
I’m calling it right now, BEST DEBUT OF THE YEAR and it’s ONLY FEBRUARY!!!!
Dead Money by @jakob_kerr
-Out now-
Imagine Uber with sprinkles of The Social Network and they had a baby and the CEO, founder of Journy, has been murdered!!!
First line in the book “ Tony found the body on a Tuesday “ 😱 I WAS HOOKED!
This story is razor-sharp! Unique! The MC, Mackenzie is a force to be reckoned with! An all-around bada**!
DEFINITELY LOST SLEEP OVER THIS ONE!!! It wasn’t even on my radar had they not sent it! @jakob_kerr is a genius and I will SCREAM from the rooftops…
🔥🔥🔥GET THIS BOOK🔥🔥🔥
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥 Holy-Mother-Of-Gawd 🔥🔥
Huge THANKS to @randomhouse @penguinrandomhouse #partner
@bantambooksuk for the #gifted copy!
🔥 BANGER ALERT 🔥
I’m calling it right now, BEST DEBUT OF THE YEAR and it’s ONLY FEBRUARY!!!!
Dead Money by @jakob_kerr
-Out now-
Imagine Uber with sprinkles of The Social Network and they had a baby and the CEO, founder of Journy, has been murdered!!!
First line in the book “ Tony found the body on a Tuesday “ 😱 I WAS HOOKED!
This story is razor-sharp! Unique! The MC, Mackenzie is a force to be reckoned with! An all-around bada**!
DEFINITELY LOST SLEEP OVER THIS ONE!!! It wasn’t even on my radar had they not sent it! @jakob_kerr is a genius and I will SCREAM from the rooftops…
🔥🔥🔥GET THIS BOOK🔥🔥🔥
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 17, 2024
Really enjoyed this! I hadn't really ever read anything about advanced AI technology.. and even though there was a murder mystery behind most of it - what was more intriguing was how the Kerr told a story within story!!
These are my favorite kinds of stories where you realize something is happening behind the scenes and you just aren't quite sure yet? It reminds me of The Woman in the Library with it's complexity!
-Women in Stem read!!
**Thank you to Bantam for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋
These are my favorite kinds of stories where you realize something is happening behind the scenes and you just aren't quite sure yet? It reminds me of The Woman in the Library with it's complexity!
-Women in Stem read!!
**Thank you to Bantam for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🦋
February 8, 2025
I often find thrillers and suspense stories entertaining but it’s challenging to be impressed by them. Dead Money delivered though!
This is the story of Mackenzie Clyde, a lawyer and fixer for one of the biggest VC firms in Silicon Valley, Hammersmith Ventures. She does whatever it takes to solve problems for her boss and fund founder, Roger.
When Trevor Canon, the CEO of a buzzy tech startup is found dead, with tons of frozen money in his recently updated will, Mackenzie finds herself in a new role — working with the FBI to solve the murder investigation. Hammersmith Ventures has substantial funding invested in Trevor’s company and with so much at stake, Roger is counting on Mackenzie now more than ever.
Dead Money was dark, twisty, and original. The “whodunnit” and tech industry aspects worked well together. I really liked this story which was engaging from the start.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bantam Books for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Mackenzie Clyde, a lawyer and fixer for one of the biggest VC firms in Silicon Valley, Hammersmith Ventures. She does whatever it takes to solve problems for her boss and fund founder, Roger.
When Trevor Canon, the CEO of a buzzy tech startup is found dead, with tons of frozen money in his recently updated will, Mackenzie finds herself in a new role — working with the FBI to solve the murder investigation. Hammersmith Ventures has substantial funding invested in Trevor’s company and with so much at stake, Roger is counting on Mackenzie now more than ever.
Dead Money was dark, twisty, and original. The “whodunnit” and tech industry aspects worked well together. I really liked this story which was engaging from the start.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bantam Books for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2025
okay girl boss
October 15, 2025
One of the best crime novels of the year, absolutely. It's so nice to read a debut that comes in this bold and confident, you'd think this was Kerr's 5th book.
Solid characters and a solid twist on the procedural. I love an amateur investigator and Mackenzie is perfect: not law enforcement, not a PI, not a random person who knows nothing about investigating. She's a professional, she's smart, she's competent. But being a newbie in a murder investigation lets her be a good audience proxy to figure things out as we go.
Silicon Valley setting is strong, it's clear Kerr knows this world. The main players are recognizable types but it never feels manufactured. You can see how every Journey executive got there and how they work together.
Is it earth-shattering? No. Once you get to the end and you've gone through the twists along the way, it's actually pretty basic. (About halfway through I already knew the first ending... and the second.) But I can't say it's poorly constructed! I would much rather get a well-executed book that is a little safe with its twists and reveals than one that tries to go all bananas with its twists and makes you roll your eyes.
I hope Kerr comes back for more, I can see him as a Jane Harper type with solid plot and character development who really grows over time.
I did this on audio and the reader is also great, and it's the kind of simple story that works well on audio.
Solid characters and a solid twist on the procedural. I love an amateur investigator and Mackenzie is perfect: not law enforcement, not a PI, not a random person who knows nothing about investigating. She's a professional, she's smart, she's competent. But being a newbie in a murder investigation lets her be a good audience proxy to figure things out as we go.
Silicon Valley setting is strong, it's clear Kerr knows this world. The main players are recognizable types but it never feels manufactured. You can see how every Journey executive got there and how they work together.
Is it earth-shattering? No. Once you get to the end and you've gone through the twists along the way, it's actually pretty basic. (About halfway through I already knew the first ending... and the second.) But I can't say it's poorly constructed! I would much rather get a well-executed book that is a little safe with its twists and reveals than one that tries to go all bananas with its twists and makes you roll your eyes.
I hope Kerr comes back for more, I can see him as a Jane Harper type with solid plot and character development who really grows over time.
I did this on audio and the reader is also great, and it's the kind of simple story that works well on audio.
November 26, 2024
4.5 stars. Very well done. Loved it.
May 30, 2024
Extremely smart story that kept me guessing until the end! The story is fast paced, easy to read. I loved the strong female representation. Even the backstories were highly engaging!
I'll definitely be looking for future stories by Kerr.... I think this would make a great series.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for the advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. Highly recommend this thriller!
I'll definitely be looking for future stories by Kerr.... I think this would make a great series.
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for the advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review. Highly recommend this thriller!
January 28, 2025
**Happy Publication Day!**
Congrats to Jakob Kerr for his exciting debut thriller set in the tech world of San Francisco. The plot: Mackenzie Clyde, a lawyer, has worked her way up to the position of Director of Investigations for Hammersmith Venture, the tech industry's most prestigious venture capital firm. Her boss, Roger Hammersmith, the founder and president of the firm, has invested heavily in Journy, a storybook startup company that is the crown jewel of HV's investment portfolio. Unfortunately Journy's founder, Trevor Canon, was found shot to death in his private office three weeks ago and the SFPD has made no progress in their investigation. Now the FBI has become involved and Roger Hammersmith has demanded that HV be attached as an advisor in the investigation and Mackenzie will represent the firm as a liaison, reporting directly to her boss.
As the biggest shareholder in Journy, HV was slated to now have the controlling interest. But shortly before his death, Canon added a new section to his will, a 'dead money' provision, stipulating that in the case he is ever murdered, all his assets would be frozen until the murderer is found and prosecuted. Apparently Canon had an inkling that someone wanted him dead.
So Mackenzie begins working with Special Agent Jameson Danner, who seems less than thrilled to be including her in his investigation. And so begins a very twisty, turny thriller plot. The story was well written, with timely flashbacks to Mackenzie's past that fill in the background little by little. I thought I had figured out the whodunit fairly early but Kerr had some surprises up his sleeve for me. I liked how it all turned out. Very smart! I always look to see how a male author handles his female characters and I thought Kerr created interesting and clever personalities with Mackenzie and others.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this debut thriller. I will look forward to reading more from this author. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
Congrats to Jakob Kerr for his exciting debut thriller set in the tech world of San Francisco. The plot: Mackenzie Clyde, a lawyer, has worked her way up to the position of Director of Investigations for Hammersmith Venture, the tech industry's most prestigious venture capital firm. Her boss, Roger Hammersmith, the founder and president of the firm, has invested heavily in Journy, a storybook startup company that is the crown jewel of HV's investment portfolio. Unfortunately Journy's founder, Trevor Canon, was found shot to death in his private office three weeks ago and the SFPD has made no progress in their investigation. Now the FBI has become involved and Roger Hammersmith has demanded that HV be attached as an advisor in the investigation and Mackenzie will represent the firm as a liaison, reporting directly to her boss.
As the biggest shareholder in Journy, HV was slated to now have the controlling interest. But shortly before his death, Canon added a new section to his will, a 'dead money' provision, stipulating that in the case he is ever murdered, all his assets would be frozen until the murderer is found and prosecuted. Apparently Canon had an inkling that someone wanted him dead.
So Mackenzie begins working with Special Agent Jameson Danner, who seems less than thrilled to be including her in his investigation. And so begins a very twisty, turny thriller plot. The story was well written, with timely flashbacks to Mackenzie's past that fill in the background little by little. I thought I had figured out the whodunit fairly early but Kerr had some surprises up his sleeve for me. I liked how it all turned out. Very smart! I always look to see how a male author handles his female characters and I thought Kerr created interesting and clever personalities with Mackenzie and others.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this debut thriller. I will look forward to reading more from this author. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
February 15, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
First half was as slow moving as molasses. The second half definitely picked up momentum but the ending was exactly what I thought was going to happen. This one is a typical tech startup with corruption. I think it would play out well on screen so there’s that!
First half was as slow moving as molasses. The second half definitely picked up momentum but the ending was exactly what I thought was going to happen. This one is a typical tech startup with corruption. I think it would play out well on screen so there’s that!
February 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this. It’s an engaging mystery with multiple layers, set in the fast-paced tech world of Silicon Valley. I especially liked our main character’s tenacity. The glimpses into her childhood and past added depth, showing how she became the person she is.
The investigation itself was compelling, with plenty of twists along the way. In the tech world, not everyone is who they seem and deception plays a major role. While I found the big reveal predictable, I was satisfied with how everything wrapped up. The ending was definitely my favorite part of the book. Overall, this was a unique investigative novel that I think will appeal to many thriller readers.
The investigation itself was compelling, with plenty of twists along the way. In the tech world, not everyone is who they seem and deception plays a major role. While I found the big reveal predictable, I was satisfied with how everything wrapped up. The ending was definitely my favorite part of the book. Overall, this was a unique investigative novel that I think will appeal to many thriller readers.
March 26, 2025
ETA: this book won’t leave my mind.m in the worst way and I HATE IT. I hate this book so much.
Mackenzie is tall (🦒<— that’s her. ) Mackenzie is tall , she played basketball, and sometimes her wrist hurts. That’s about all I can tell you as far as Mackenzie goes. She doesn’t have much of a personality. And for someone who is in her mid-late thirties, I honestly kept thinking she was twenty.
A lot of this book was far fetched, a lot of the twists did not feel that shocking to me, and the writing was very…I don’t even know. Bro Coded?
Here’s the thing: every company in this book is fake. There’s Spider posing as Google. Journy is some mash up of Ubers and Lyft. The big thing is to try and make the technology for self driving cars ! SO WHY ARE TESLAS IN THE BOOK? Teslas are in the book purely as cars some people have. They’re not there as competition for the companies fighting to come up with this technology first (even though Teslas have some semi autonomous features in real life?? Like the tech they’re trying to make up in this book?) It feels like really awkward product placement. They could have just been driving literally any other car. It’s the only brand name mentioned. Why? 🤮
This book is divided into two halves for me. The first half I don’t care about the characters and I’m waiting in anticipation for the big twists and satisfying ending. The second half of the book jumps a shark and is so crazy, that I’m still waiting for a twist and ending that couldn’t possibly make up for what is happening. Do you want Burning Man mansplained to you? Cause you can find that in the second half. The prologue and first couple of chapters were so promising, I don’t know what happened.
I know this is a debut, but I don’t see myself trying this author again.
I would watch this as a movie ( Although I think they already made a movie about Mackenzie’s teen years and it’s called Tall Girl on Netflix), but I really don’t think this is a great book.
SPOILER THOUGHT: I think it’s really messed up Mackenzie faked being queer this entire book. That her and Eleanore never dated because that was one thing I was here for while reading. It was absolutely one of my most hated parts of this book. It felt like baiting. And the more I think of that the more I question the author’s intentions. And it just gives me the ick.
Mackenzie is tall (🦒<— that’s her. ) Mackenzie is tall , she played basketball, and sometimes her wrist hurts. That’s about all I can tell you as far as Mackenzie goes. She doesn’t have much of a personality. And for someone who is in her mid-late thirties, I honestly kept thinking she was twenty.
A lot of this book was far fetched, a lot of the twists did not feel that shocking to me, and the writing was very…I don’t even know. Bro Coded?
Here’s the thing: every company in this book is fake. There’s Spider posing as Google. Journy is some mash up of Ubers and Lyft. The big thing is to try and make the technology for self driving cars ! SO WHY ARE TESLAS IN THE BOOK? Teslas are in the book purely as cars some people have. They’re not there as competition for the companies fighting to come up with this technology first (even though Teslas have some semi autonomous features in real life?? Like the tech they’re trying to make up in this book?) It feels like really awkward product placement. They could have just been driving literally any other car. It’s the only brand name mentioned. Why? 🤮
This book is divided into two halves for me. The first half I don’t care about the characters and I’m waiting in anticipation for the big twists and satisfying ending. The second half of the book jumps a shark and is so crazy, that I’m still waiting for a twist and ending that couldn’t possibly make up for what is happening. Do you want Burning Man mansplained to you? Cause you can find that in the second half. The prologue and first couple of chapters were so promising, I don’t know what happened.
I know this is a debut, but I don’t see myself trying this author again.
I would watch this as a movie ( Although I think they already made a movie about Mackenzie’s teen years and it’s called Tall Girl on Netflix), but I really don’t think this is a great book.
SPOILER THOUGHT: I think it’s really messed up Mackenzie faked being queer this entire book. That her and Eleanore never dated because that was one thing I was here for while reading. It was absolutely one of my most hated parts of this book. It felt like baiting. And the more I think of that the more I question the author’s intentions. And it just gives me the ick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
Wow what a debut!! This was continuously labeled as the Succession of books but I never got into the show, but if it’s as good as this, maybe I’ll give it another chance.
This was full of mystery, thrills, backstabbing, clever writing and I had such a good time. Plus as someone who has grown up in Reno, it was clear it wasn’t used as a random place plot point but the authour KNOWS Reno.
This was full of mystery, thrills, backstabbing, clever writing and I had such a good time. Plus as someone who has grown up in Reno, it was clear it wasn’t used as a random place plot point but the authour KNOWS Reno.
January 27, 2025
3.5
This started off super strong. There was a good mystery that was relevant to the times. A good cast of characters. Technology that was pertinent. A setting that made sense. I was pretty engrossed in it until about 3/4 of the way through, and then it started to fall off. All the things that seemed so good in the beginning started wearing on me, and finally got to the point where I didn't care as much.
The story follows Mackenzie, an investigator for a large and important venture capital company. She's sent to help investigate the murder of the CEO of one of the biggest companies on the planet. She teams up with an FBI agent to help him navigate the tech world, while also updating her boss on the progress of the investigation. At first, everything was interesting and relevant. The victim was the CEO of Journy, a ride share company that could easily be swapped out for Uber or Lyft. It has its differences, but it's more or less the same thing. The suspect list is small, the motivation seemingly obvious. There are some twists to all this of course, but it kept going at a good pace. However, it started grating on me as it got closer to the end, Petty people fighting over billions because they think they're owed something in life? Eh. It didn't help that some of them had to let you know just how special they were, because they worked in tech and had a minimalist house and treated everyone as if they were beneath them. I get it; it's San Francisco and technology. Most people involved in that are insufferable. It also helped show how tech bros have ruined so many things. The Burning Man sections really hammered that home. And speaking of hammers, Hammer Angel is the dumbest name on the planet. Technology has advanced so much and brought so many good things to peoples lives, but at the same time it definitely has its downfalls, which I think more people are beginning to realize.
The ending absolutely was not for me. It made sense for how the rest of the story went, but I didn't enjoy it. I feel as if I'll be the outlier on that, but I could be wrong.
This will appeal to people who enjoy mysteries with a tech flair. It is well-written, and I think I would have rated it higher had it not been for the end.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This started off super strong. There was a good mystery that was relevant to the times. A good cast of characters. Technology that was pertinent. A setting that made sense. I was pretty engrossed in it until about 3/4 of the way through, and then it started to fall off. All the things that seemed so good in the beginning started wearing on me, and finally got to the point where I didn't care as much.
The story follows Mackenzie, an investigator for a large and important venture capital company. She's sent to help investigate the murder of the CEO of one of the biggest companies on the planet. She teams up with an FBI agent to help him navigate the tech world, while also updating her boss on the progress of the investigation. At first, everything was interesting and relevant. The victim was the CEO of Journy, a ride share company that could easily be swapped out for Uber or Lyft. It has its differences, but it's more or less the same thing. The suspect list is small, the motivation seemingly obvious. There are some twists to all this of course, but it kept going at a good pace. However, it started grating on me as it got closer to the end, Petty people fighting over billions because they think they're owed something in life? Eh. It didn't help that some of them had to let you know just how special they were, because they worked in tech and had a minimalist house and treated everyone as if they were beneath them. I get it; it's San Francisco and technology. Most people involved in that are insufferable. It also helped show how tech bros have ruined so many things. The Burning Man sections really hammered that home. And speaking of hammers, Hammer Angel is the dumbest name on the planet. Technology has advanced so much and brought so many good things to peoples lives, but at the same time it definitely has its downfalls, which I think more people are beginning to realize.
The ending absolutely was not for me. It made sense for how the rest of the story went, but I didn't enjoy it. I feel as if I'll be the outlier on that, but I could be wrong.
This will appeal to people who enjoy mysteries with a tech flair. It is well-written, and I think I would have rated it higher had it not been for the end.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2025
The book blurbs talked about being super twisty, but most of the twists were pretty normal until the end and those (still not the twistiest) only occurred by the time I was desperate for the book to be over. Didn’t like the characters or much else.
February 10, 2025
A crime procedural/thriller with a great setting- Silicon Valley tech center. A billionaire is murdered in his office, the San Francisco police department fumbles the case. So the story begins 22 days after the murder, when the FBI starts an investigation. They determine that his will has dead money- all of his billions cannot be allocated until his murder is solved.
Mackenzie is the main character; she has a tragic back story and a disjointed POV that jumps back to years before. This all sets up the twists at the conclusion of this gripping mystery. Mackenzie is a “fixer” for a venture capitalist- someone very good at her job in pulling the strings to make things better for her boss. She becomes the unofficial partner of the FBI as they question each of the inner sanctum of the executive team at Journy, the fictional firm cofounder by the slain CEO.
I really appreciated how this author took the time to develop the characters and back story. There is also a sneakily hidden “recap” every few chapters as the characters review what they have learned. This is effective so you can determine what is important to the story. Really loved the setting and engrossing world of politics and tech funding.
If you like a thriller/procedural: this is a fun new release to pick up.
Mackenzie is the main character; she has a tragic back story and a disjointed POV that jumps back to years before. This all sets up the twists at the conclusion of this gripping mystery. Mackenzie is a “fixer” for a venture capitalist- someone very good at her job in pulling the strings to make things better for her boss. She becomes the unofficial partner of the FBI as they question each of the inner sanctum of the executive team at Journy, the fictional firm cofounder by the slain CEO.
I really appreciated how this author took the time to develop the characters and back story. There is also a sneakily hidden “recap” every few chapters as the characters review what they have learned. This is effective so you can determine what is important to the story. Really loved the setting and engrossing world of politics and tech funding.
If you like a thriller/procedural: this is a fun new release to pick up.
January 31, 2025
I was quite looking forward to this, but in the end, it was a mixed bag. I have nothing to do with tech, but just by virtue of being a San Franciscan, we all sort of marinate in that world. There's no avoiding it. Kerr does an okay--not great--job with the San Francisco setting, but really falls down on an important plot element later.
First, some of the things he gets right. He's set up a good murder mystery and places a compelling insider/outsider protagonist at the center of the investigation. He uses the non-linear structure of the novel to good effect. There are some fun twists and turns along the way.
However, this is a novel and a crime centered around revolutionary technology. And when the big reveal eventually happens, all I could say was, "Are you kidding me?" First, though, there's a ton of talk about autonomous vehicles, as if that weren't so ten years ago. That may not be a huge problem for readers in Podunk, but in my world it strains credulity to the breaking point. Here in SF, we're riding in autonomous vehicles every day, and these supposed tech insiders are talking like it's the next big thing. Exactly how long did it take this book to get published? My reaction to the actual secret tech was about the same.
Also, some of the big twists, notably the one at the very end, were so well telegraphed that there was little to be surprised about. Dead Money wasn't an unpleasant reading experience, but it's not something I can muster any energy to recommend.
First, some of the things he gets right. He's set up a good murder mystery and places a compelling insider/outsider protagonist at the center of the investigation. He uses the non-linear structure of the novel to good effect. There are some fun twists and turns along the way.
However, this is a novel and a crime centered around revolutionary technology. And when the big reveal eventually happens, all I could say was, "Are you kidding me?" First, though, there's a ton of talk about autonomous vehicles, as if that weren't so ten years ago. That may not be a huge problem for readers in Podunk, but in my world it strains credulity to the breaking point. Here in SF, we're riding in autonomous vehicles every day, and these supposed tech insiders are talking like it's the next big thing. Exactly how long did it take this book to get published? My reaction to the actual secret tech was about the same.
Also, some of the big twists, notably the one at the very end, were so well telegraphed that there was little to be surprised about. Dead Money wasn't an unpleasant reading experience, but it's not something I can muster any energy to recommend.
February 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
Dead Money.
The premise was intriguing and though I don't care about the tech industry and the bros who run it, the narrative quickly drew me in.
** Non-tech-y spoilers ahead **
Mackenzie Clyde is a fixer who has worked her way from humble beginnings to become the right hand woman to a ruthless venture capitalist.
When the founder of a hot start-up is murdered, Mackenzie works alongside the federal agent investigating the death.
She soon discovers the feds aren't being honest with her, but then neither is she.
I liked the police procedural aspects of the narrative as Clyde and the federal agent speak to witnesses and colleagues.
The flashbacks provided context and insight into Mackenzie's motives and ambitions, which I guessed early from the start.
I did like Mackenzie and her mom, and the writing style and tone.
The narrative dragged at the end and as a result, the suspense and urgency suffered.
I also got annoyed and bored of everyone describing the dead CEO and Yoo as geniuses, brilliant, etc.
I rolled my eyes as much as Clyde did when that happened.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
The premise was intriguing and though I don't care about the tech industry and the bros who run it, the narrative quickly drew me in.
** Non-tech-y spoilers ahead **
Mackenzie Clyde is a fixer who has worked her way from humble beginnings to become the right hand woman to a ruthless venture capitalist.
When the founder of a hot start-up is murdered, Mackenzie works alongside the federal agent investigating the death.
She soon discovers the feds aren't being honest with her, but then neither is she.
I liked the police procedural aspects of the narrative as Clyde and the federal agent speak to witnesses and colleagues.
The flashbacks provided context and insight into Mackenzie's motives and ambitions, which I guessed early from the start.
I did like Mackenzie and her mom, and the writing style and tone.
The narrative dragged at the end and as a result, the suspense and urgency suffered.
I also got annoyed and bored of everyone describing the dead CEO and Yoo as geniuses, brilliant, etc.
I rolled my eyes as much as Clyde did when that happened.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.
April 22, 2025
4.5 Stars rounded up to 5 stars.
It’s difficult to believe this is a debut novel by Jakob Kerr.
It was well written.
Great character development.
Many important flashbacks.
Good dialogue.
I didn’t want to put this book down until I finished it.
I figured out the murderer early on, still the story had me going with many twists.
I enjoyed learning about the tech world.
This was a fast paced (for the most part), busy story.
Strong women rule!
It’s difficult to believe this is a debut novel by Jakob Kerr.
It was well written.
Great character development.
Many important flashbacks.
Good dialogue.
I didn’t want to put this book down until I finished it.
I figured out the murderer early on, still the story had me going with many twists.
I enjoyed learning about the tech world.
This was a fast paced (for the most part), busy story.
Strong women rule!
June 14, 2025
A very good book. There are so many twists and turns along with a very surprising ending, which i like.
A great look into the business world and FBI procedures. it has slow take off and becomes a page turner.
A great look into the business world and FBI procedures. it has slow take off and becomes a page turner.
March 14, 2025
Hilariously bad
April 22, 2025
Well that…. ended up being a hell of a lot of fun.
(But I still hate AI…)
(But I still hate AI…)
February 14, 2025
I love twisty thrillers, and Dead Money is fast, twisty, and entertaining.
The story kicks off when Trevor Canon, the genius CEO of the hottest startup around, gets shot in his office. A few weeks earlier, he added a sneaky little clause to his will that locks down his entire company’s assets until someone is officially charged with his murder. Now, five billion dollars are in limbo, and some very rich, very impatient people are freaking out.
Mackenzie Clyde is a fixer for one of those very rich guys, and her job is to make sure his money doesn’t disappear. Mackenzie is tall, sharp, and completely unimpressed by the tech bros running the show. She teams up with an FBI agent to untangle a web of secrets, betrayals, and backroom deals. Everything leads to a wild finale with excellent twist.
Highly recommended.
The story kicks off when Trevor Canon, the genius CEO of the hottest startup around, gets shot in his office. A few weeks earlier, he added a sneaky little clause to his will that locks down his entire company’s assets until someone is officially charged with his murder. Now, five billion dollars are in limbo, and some very rich, very impatient people are freaking out.
Mackenzie Clyde is a fixer for one of those very rich guys, and her job is to make sure his money doesn’t disappear. Mackenzie is tall, sharp, and completely unimpressed by the tech bros running the show. She teams up with an FBI agent to untangle a web of secrets, betrayals, and backroom deals. Everything leads to a wild finale with excellent twist.
Highly recommended.
April 23, 2025
I’m so surprised by all the good reviews. I thought this would be a great thriller since I work in tech and I have read a few tech thrillers which are fun. However this book is terrible. It spends a lot of pages on rehashing and repeating information from one person to another. Dan we tells Mazkenzie something he talked to someone else about. Then Mackenzie calls her boss and talks about there same exact thing. There are pages and pages of boring daily activities and small talk. It’s just a mediocre crime book dressed up for Silicon Valley. It has entire passages about Mackenzie’s childhood which lend nothing to the plot of the book. It’s just, no.
August 7, 2025
I read this to fulfill a kindle challenge. I went in mostly blind and honestly it wasn't a bad story. It's definitely not something I would have just picked up unprompted, but I am happy that I took a chance with it.
March 11, 2025
Dead Money by Jakob Kerr is not something I would normally read and suffice to say, it ended up being an incredible read! Fully automated cars make me think of Waymo's and I couldn’t help but think of those and other things as I went on this adventure ride of a book. It seriously blows my mind that this is a debut, and it is so complex and expertly plotted! I was also in awe that Kerr was one of the first employees at Airbnb, and it’s clear that he brought his tech company startup knowledge to this story. The pacing is nonstop, and the combination of present day mixed with Mackenzie’s past just upped the ante even more.
I say audiobook all the way for this one, and Rachel Music slayed the narration. I had to listen to this at a 2x speed and didn’t hate it so that is definitely saying something. Music’s pacing was on point the entire way through and she made me feel every bit of tension in the storyline. This would make an incredible movie or miniseries, and I would love it if someone decided to put it onscreen. I haven’t read very much fiction set in Silicon Valley and this look at the dirty side of it was impeccable. I had never heard the term dead money prior to reading it and it was an eye opener to say the least. I loved Mackenzie and you can’t tell me otherwise.
Read this if you are looking for a seriously suspenseful storyline, secrets and dirty deeds aplenty, and unique plots!
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary book and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I say audiobook all the way for this one, and Rachel Music slayed the narration. I had to listen to this at a 2x speed and didn’t hate it so that is definitely saying something. Music’s pacing was on point the entire way through and she made me feel every bit of tension in the storyline. This would make an incredible movie or miniseries, and I would love it if someone decided to put it onscreen. I haven’t read very much fiction set in Silicon Valley and this look at the dirty side of it was impeccable. I had never heard the term dead money prior to reading it and it was an eye opener to say the least. I loved Mackenzie and you can’t tell me otherwise.
Read this if you are looking for a seriously suspenseful storyline, secrets and dirty deeds aplenty, and unique plots!
Audiobook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary book and advance listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 19, 2025
Do you remember I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes? That was a smart book for smart people. It predicted pandemic a few years before one and it was wrapped into an intricate, intelligent plot.
Dead Money is the same kind of smart for smart people. This one puts a spotlight on the Tech world and, specifically, FinTech. It takes on dirty venture capitalists. Think the ill-gained Billionaires Club that we are starting to learn more and more about. That kind of money does not come honestly and it’s usually funded by the dark world and dark money. This is that book.
It’s smart. The women are not hanging off the arms of dumb-f%#k men either. The women run the show. And!!!!! The women treat each other well. When a male author writes this kind of gold you just know he was raised by a Goddess and married Brilliance.
I loved this book.
Dead Money is the same kind of smart for smart people. This one puts a spotlight on the Tech world and, specifically, FinTech. It takes on dirty venture capitalists. Think the ill-gained Billionaires Club that we are starting to learn more and more about. That kind of money does not come honestly and it’s usually funded by the dark world and dark money. This is that book.
It’s smart. The women are not hanging off the arms of dumb-f%#k men either. The women run the show. And!!!!! The women treat each other well. When a male author writes this kind of gold you just know he was raised by a Goddess and married Brilliance.
I loved this book.
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