Karma Doll

The Doll Series #3

by Jonathan Ames

HE'S ON THE RUN

Happy Doll crosses the Mexican border with a bullet in his shoulder and a cartel out for his blood.

HE'S DONE WITH VIOLENCE

Soon he has a new identity and a peaceful new life on a secluded beach. Maybe he can finally leave his brutal past behind.

BUT VIOLENCE ISN'T DONE WITH HIM

When murder shatters the tranquillity of his sleepy paradise, Happy realizes he has nowhere left to run.

The question is, can he remember how to fight?

Genres: Crime, Thriller, Audiobook, Fiction, Mystery

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2025

About the author

Jonathan Ames is an American author who has written a number of novels and comic memoirs, and is the creator of two television series, Bored to Death (HBO) and Blunt Talk (STARZ). In the late '90s and early 2000s, he was a columnist for the New York Press for several years, and became known for self-deprecating tales of his sexual misadventures. He also has a long-time interest in boxing, appearing occasionally in the ring as "The Herring Wonder".
Two of his novels have been adapted into films: The Extra Man in 2010, and You Were Never Really Here in 2017. Ames was a co-screenwriter of the former and an executive producer of the latter.

Reviews

[Tosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Doll series reminds me of Richard Stark's books. In that all of them are excellently written and a page-turner maximum. And for anyone who lives in Los Angeles, or specifically in the Silver Lake/Atwater Village/Los Feliz area, it's a pleasure to come upon my neighborhood in these books.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

As good as it gets!

This series is so amazing… a completely flawed protagonist in the craziest situations… and George. I don’t know why this series hasn’t won awards and is more acclaimed. Bravo and I hope this series continues on. I am all in!

[Tom Mooney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. Happy Doll is the fucking man. This is the best crime series out there at the moment.

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I can’t decide why I’m so drawn to this series featuring Happy Doll, a Los Angeles ex-cop private eye who is trying really hard to live as a Buddhist but who is definitely in the wrong profession for that—he constantly finds himself on the wrong side of Very Bad Men, needing to defend himself and protect others, and, well, the body count keeps rising. Its wry humour appeals to me, and Happy is a bit of a knight—he really has a code of decency. And he loves his dog to pieces. Whatever it is, I keep coming back with pleasure. This time around, Happy has been holed up for several years in Baja Mexico, waiting out the Covid pandemic, working on his Buddhist practice, and hiding from assorted villains who are after him, including not one, but two drug cartels. He’s forced out of hiding and, while continuing to try to stay off the bad guys’ radar, sets out on a righteous quest to unleash some karmic justice on a man from his past and a new-to-Happy psycho creep who, well, deserves it.

[Jason Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like Ames’s breezy-but-violent Happy Doll novels, but this one leaned a bit heavily on karmic events solving plot problems. Though, given Doll’s struggles with being a better Buddhist, I suppose that’s kind of the point.

[Ross Cumming · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third in the Happy Doll series finds our ex-cop,turned Private Investigator, fleeing south to Mexico with a stash of stolen cartel money and a bullet wound in his shoulder. At an unlicensed medical facility he gets the bullet wound treated and gets a ‘new face’ both courtesy of the disgraced surgeon who runs the clinic. After helping him out with a spot of bother, Happy flees deeper into Mexico and sees out the pandemic in near seclusion by the coast, sharing his dwelling with his dog, living off the sea and smoking a bit of dope. Eventually all good things come to an end and following an encounter with a young actress on the beach, Happy finds himself on the run from, not only the cops but two contract killers hellbent on extracting revenge on behalf of their employer. Running out of money and determined to extract himself from his current predicament, Happy returns home to L. A. to wreak havoc on his enemies.
Unconventional and eccentric P.I. Happy Doll is a strange protagonist but one that is easy to love. The books are violent but also filled with humour which reflects Happy’s personality. When required, he is not adverse to dishing out the rough stuff but this is contrary to his Buddhist beliefs and he is usually wracked by remorse afterwards. He keeps a running total of the men he has killed and is constantly trying to atone for his sins. Happy has a few close calls with death himself but eventually he hatches a plan where his enemies get dispatched but not by his own hand.
Ames hints in the acknowledgments that there may be more Happy books in the pipeline and I personally can’t wait.

[Riley Hamilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

It doesn’t get much better than this. Jonathan Ames should be so proud of himself.

[Emily Vislocky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful addition to the Doll series! Love this guy, and very stoked on Walter joining in on the fun.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

[Paul Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Karma Doll was a quick pick from the forward-facing "New Books" section of the library so I was not expecting it to be a 5 star selection. Perhaps because the previous books I had been reading were quite 'heavy' I loved the light relief this gave me and I read it quickly, very quickly. It was the first book I have read in a while that was difficult to put down.

I loved the fast pace, the settings of Mexico and LA and the very many references to Bhuddism and the idea of a killer wanting to lead a better life.

Very cinematic - in fact it reminded me of the Daniel Craig James Bond-era films especially "Skyfall" and "No Time To Die" , the former where he washes up on a beach in Turkey after being shot, having fallen (quite literally) out of favour, the latter where he is living quietly in Jamaica.

[Steven Pollack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Doll is a fabulous creation. I love his adventures. A blackly comic PI. Thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.4 stars. Such grit and Happy Doll is one of my all-time favorite characters; he is so flawed of a character, you love him. I adore Jonathan Ames’ writing and this whole series is absorbing and propulsive, it is impossible to put down. Hard to look away. Karma really does come back to you. I really enjoyed the long section on Buddhism. Great entertaining read.

And shout out to George and Walter. Even the animals have dimension.

[Debra Berding · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to this as an audiobook. . It was really good. I love the main character. I love how he talks about. Karma and smoking joints. Definitely will read more in the series.

[Phil Landry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe he drank the wine in Sebastian's apartment. We all knew it was roofied. Come on, man. That's bad writing!

[Chris And · Rating 3 out of 5]

Who names a character Happy Doll? Someone with a wicked sense of humor. A flawed old fashioned private investigator perfectly fits the name. Framed for a crime he did not do, he reminded me of the old Bogart films; dark humor and lots of violence. After reading some of the previous reviewer thoughts, I realized I probably would have liked it more if I had started the series at the beginning. And certainly would have enjoyed the audiobook. It was a fun journey, Happy.

[hirkiti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio book is truly excellent - one of my favorites. Ames does an amazing job with the writing and the narration. Highly recommend. My favorite of the three.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

When this book opens we find our narrator (Happy Doll, an ex-Navy guy, ex-cop, and current "security specialist") in a doctor's office in Mexico at 2 am with a bullet in his shoulder. If you read the previous book in this series (this is number three), you'll probably remember the things that led to Happy getting shot, but if you didn't read that one or don't remember, don't worry, this book catches you up on key events from that one. The action of this book starts in January 2020, which is significant: though he doesn't know it, Happy is about to spend three years in a house on a beach in Baja California Sur, avoiding both Covid and various people who want him dead (for various reasons, including a misadventure in Mexico that happens early in the book). It's a pretty good set-up: he swims and snorkels and takes naps with his dog George and his new cat Walter (who belonged to the house's previous owner) and helps a neighbor with his fishing boat in exchange for part of the catch. And oh, he studies Buddhism, because he really would like to figure out how to get out of the "cycle of pain" and suffering that is tied to violence and connected to his childhood. But he can't stay in Mexico studing the Four Noble Truths forever: his money is going to run out, so he has to get back to LA and maybe sell his house, but it's complicated, because his license and passport have expired and he never filed the proper paperwork to legally stay in Mexico as long as he has. And as he's trying to figure out what steps to take to untangle all of this, something else happens: there's a murder, and he's in danger of being framed for it, and also some of the people who wanted him dead at the start of the book still want him dead, despite how much time has passed.

All of which brings Happy back to LA, where he decides he needs to get some revenge on some evildoers (without saying too much: the dead body by the beach in Mexico isn't the only murdered corpse Happy sees on his way home). So much for nonviolence, although maybe it's not his fault: maybe it's his karma and everyone else's: "New karma. Old karma. Bad karma," as he puts it, but maybe also some good karma too.

I really like the way Ames writes in this series, especially the atmospheric descriptions of various settings from beaches to bars to city streets. I like this, about a drive to the beachfront house where Happy ends up living: "the light was beginning to change, dusk was coming on, and the sea, to my left, was now the color of mercury tinged with violet." And this, about Rossmore Avenue in Los Angeles: "you're in the shadow of these beautiful old buildings, which form a canopy, an enclosed feeling, and it's like a movie set of a lost city." I also appreciate the noir mood, the pacing, and Happy's Buddhist philosophizing, like when he says that "we've been enlightened this whole damn time and nirvana is like an all-night diner. It's always open. You can always go there."

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Jonathan Ames’ "Karma Doll" is a masterful continuation of the "Doll Series", plunging readers into the chaotic yet oddly introspective world of Happy Doll, a detective whose life is as battered as his body. This third installment is a thrilling blend of noir, dark humor, and existential musings, making it a standout in the genre.

The story begins with Doll seeking solace on a remote Mexican beach, recovering from his previous brushes with death and immersing himself in Buddhist philosophy. Ames paints this idyllic setting with a deceptive tranquility, as trouble inevitably finds its way to Doll. Witnessing a murder for which he is framed, Doll is thrust back into a world of violence, corruption, and moral ambiguity. The narrative follows his desperate journey to clear his name, evade the Mexican authorities, and confront the ghosts of his past.

What sets *Karma Doll* apart is Ames’ ability to juxtapose gritty action with moments of profound introspection. Doll’s struggle to reconcile his violent tendencies with his yearning for spiritual peace adds a layer of depth rarely seen in detective fiction. His internal conflict is as gripping as the external threats he faces, from the Jalisco Cartel to his own haunted memories.

Ames’ prose is sharp and evocative, laced with a dark wit that keeps the narrative buoyant even in its bleakest moments. The dialogue crackles with authenticity, and the characters—whether allies or adversaries—are vividly drawn. Doll himself remains a compelling anti-hero, a man who is deeply flawed yet deeply human.

The pacing is relentless, yet Ames finds time to explore themes of karma, redemption, and the cyclical nature of violence. The title itself is a clever nod to Doll’s journey, as he grapples with the karmic consequences of his actions and seeks to tip the scales in his favor without further bloodshed.

For fans of noir and thrillers, "Karma Doll" is a must-read. It’s a testament to Ames’ skill as a storyteller that he can weave such a complex tapestry of action, humor, and philosophy without losing the thread. This is a book that will leave you pondering long after the final page—a rare feat in a genre often defined by its transience.

In "Karma Doll", Ames doesn’t just tell a story; he crafts an experience. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, and it’s utterly unforgettable. If you miss and enjoy the old time pulp crime fiction novels, you will love this book.

[Paul Sutter]

How can you not like a character who goes by the name of Happy Doll? It has to be one of the unlikeliest of names for a protagonist and star of a thrilling mystery series. Jonathan Ames has managed to do so much with Happy, which keeps the readers happy as well, that they get to follow his latest exploits in book three of the series.
You cannot say Happy is not a risk taker. He shows no fear in the face of death, often barely escaping with his life. He is recovering from his previous encounter with the Jalisco cartel, and running off with $60,000 of their drug money. He is a marked man, and cartels will do anything for revenge. He is also recovering from a gunshot wound, prompting Happy to visit a Mexican doctor not only to fix his body, but the doctor also agrees to give him a new face, for a price. Happy believes that will help him escape and get back to Los Angeles, where he wants to live a normal life or as normal as life will allow.
He really wants to exist through his Buddhist beliefs in not taking human lives, but sometimes the best laid plans are altered because of others wanting to take his life. It is while at the doctor’s that a drug-crazed wrestler comes with murder on his mind. He is massive, with Happy and others at the clinic fighting for their lives. It does not end well for one of them. While Happy may not always be seeking out danger, it does follow him.
He meets a girl named Frances whom he likes, but also encounters a jealous boyfriend who does not treat women well. She ends up dead, with the boyfriend wanting Happy to take the fall. He does vow revenge as again he is on the run. Happy is the target of the cartel still, and it seems they have painted a target on his back. Bad people gravitate to him like ants at a picnic, and once more he finds himself fighting for his life.
Some things he does have going for him is his faithful dog, and a cat acquired from someone he met earlier, but passed away from COVID. The pets are his proudest possessions, and he holds them in the highest possible esteems, much more than the humans he deals with. Bounty hunters, cartel crazies and so many more, have their radar pointed at Happy, who escapes one predicament after another, the action going full-tilt as Happy’s revenge tour and flirting with death reach all-time highs.
Each book out, Jonathan Ames does one better, creating a character we simply cannot get enough of.

[ZZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Karma Doll" is a great final read for the year and an immensely enjoyable one-day dive. I became an instant fan after the first two books, and this is a worthy continuation of the series, picking up directly where the previous installment left off. While it can be read as a standalone, knowing the earlier context adds depth to both the character and the stakes.

Unlike the breakneck pace of the earlier books, this one opens on a quieter note. The protagonist retreats to the Sea of Cortez, seeking serenity, simplicity, and some form of moral cleansing after his violent past. The prose here is surprisingly lyrical, reflective, even tender at times and Ames allows the illusion of calm to settle in.

Naturally, it doesn’t last.

When the violence arrives, it does so abruptly, reminding us that this is still very much a Doll story. The contrast between introspection and brutality works extremely well, making the eruptions feel sharper rather than gratuitous.

Best of all, in the acknowledgments Ames hints that this may not be the end of the Doll’s dark adventures. That alone is reason enough to hope he keeps his word.

[David Mc · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are almost too many good things to say about this wonderful novel. To begin with, the incredible irony of the protagonist, Happy Doll, attempting to incorporate the philosophy of Buddhism into his life of dark mayhem and killing is worth the price of the book itself. Then, along with the well-rounded, colorful characters who surround Happy’s life, the humor (intermixed with frightening thugs and violence) had me laughing out loud on more than one occasion. Without giving anything away, Happy’s first encounter with the sex -trafficking, Jalisco cartel-connected owner of the strip club is hilarious. Finally, although I am a voracious reading of mystery/detective/thriller novels, I have never come across such a classic ending to a novel. All in all, this is the best of 11-books that I’ve read in the first month of 2025!

[Jake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all things Jonathan Ames (well, except You were never really here...) and I quickly got hooked on the Doll series. As soon as I finished the first two, I immediately preordered this one which is not something I normally do.

Suffice it to say I was stoked to read it and it held up to all expectations. This is easily my favorite of the three books. I stayed up way later then I should have last night because I didn't want to put it down as I was nearing the ending. Totally worth being pooped at work today.

Not sure what else there is to say about it. This series is weird and unlike anything else I can think of. It has a similar vibe to Bored to Death (whose main character is also named Jonathan Ames, what are the chances?). Except this guy just can't stop getting himself in ridiculous situations and accidentally killing people. Oops.

10/10 no notes.

[Therese Borden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enormously entertaining and even a little soulful. This is a noir detective series with a terrific sense of humor and the absurd. Happy Doll is a hot mess, but somehow adorable. He dearly loves his dog George. He gets into all kinds of trouble and makes some very questionable decisions. He feels compelled to defend (and avenge) victims to a ridiculous extent. Some of this self-destructive jihad is rooted in his awful childhood. There is violence, some icky but hilarious scatological incidents, and some genuinely emotional scenes that, when put together, make this a satisfying read. None of this, however, suggests a happy-ever-after fate for Happy Doll. But I will be watching eagerly for the next installment. Thank you, Jonathan Ames!

Highly recommended

[Gregory Totman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don’t read this book if you’re prone to high blood pressure! Karma doll will have your heart pulsing to the max . Our character happy aka Lou is the champion underdog taking care of business with drug cartels, shifty movie producers and every other scumbag who he meets ! With Buddha as guidance Lou gets the job done while always caring for his loving canine George and his newly acquired grifter cat Walter. Ames is on a winner with the happy doll series MTC I hope

[Gregory Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast-moving thrill ride, making me wish I'd read the first two books in the series (which I plan to get to soon.) Happy Doll is an off-the-rails LA ex-cop trying to survive a nasty underworld and salve his conscience with the help of Buddhism, drugs, and revenge-Harry Bosch with absolutely nothing to lose or live for. It has some of the best fight scenes and most interesting killings I've read in a while.

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was poor. The plot was decent but his protagonist/detective was uninteresting - more Mr Bean than John Corey. The entire resolution of each crisis including the final resolution was resolved by dumb luck rather than any capability of Happy Doll. If this was intended to be humorous - it missed. Again - see Nelson DeMille's John Corey for dry wit.

[Aida · Rating 5 out of 5]

The wait was worth it! Another excellent Happy Doll novel, rough, heartfelt, hardboiled, real, over the top. Everyone is written out with such care for character and dimension. Genre writing, yet extremely smart all while staying very accessible. Already my favourite crime read of the year. Please don't make us wait this long again, Jonathan Ames. It's unbearable.

[Doug · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book received from the Just the Right Book club, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. At first I didn't think I would like the story, because I'm not a fan of first person writing. However the story quickly sucked me in and I got used to the writing. It's a relatively short story, and I would gladly read more of the Doll series.

[Al · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Happy Doll story. Jonathan Ames's inspired creation lurches through another series of hairs-breadth escapes, all the while trying to straighten out the mangled Karma of his life through an adoption of Buddhist principles. It's funny but sad as Doll juggles his enemies in a seemingly endless series of misguided efforts to neutralize them before they kill him. Highly recommended.

[Joseph Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this character. The 'Happy Doll' name thing was kind of a distraction at first, but it seems Ames has mostly moved on from it. He's part Philip Marlow, part Hunter Thomson.
The first 1/3 of the book is a slow burn but is so well written and evocative -- Happy in Mexico hiding out at a lonely beach on Baja.
I hope there are more coming.