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Million Dollar Men
What is the cost of knowing?
When arson is confirmed to have caused a fire that kills a family of four, the search for their killer leads detectives to focus their investigation on Brian McMillan, a paroled felon with a history of violence, including a prior arson conviction.
Awaiting trial for the murders, Brian returns to the cold, concrete box he vowed to leave behind forever. Immediately upon arrival, he receives the first of a series of threats; each more vicious than the last but all carrying the same unspoken Keep your mouth shut. About what, he isn’t entirely sure. Fear takes control and drives Brian to share with his court-appointed attorney, Walter Erickson, a chilling pattern he noticed during his last imprisonment.
Walt’s legal mind dismisses the observation as jail-house paranoia, but his instincts rage. Buried by the massive legal battle ahead, Walt reaches out to the one person he trusts to explore Brian’s MJ Fernandez, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter with whom he shares a special bond.
MJ and Walt become entangled in the twisted reality behind the catastrophic blaze as MJ’s fearless and dogged determination to discover the truth propels them into a multi-dimensional world of darkness they know nothing about, and wish they had never entered.
As the pieces of the puzzle snap into place, they quickly realize they are running out of time to bring those responsible to justice… and to save an innocent man.
When arson is confirmed to have caused a fire that kills a family of four, the search for their killer leads detectives to focus their investigation on Brian McMillan, a paroled felon with a history of violence, including a prior arson conviction.
Awaiting trial for the murders, Brian returns to the cold, concrete box he vowed to leave behind forever. Immediately upon arrival, he receives the first of a series of threats; each more vicious than the last but all carrying the same unspoken Keep your mouth shut. About what, he isn’t entirely sure. Fear takes control and drives Brian to share with his court-appointed attorney, Walter Erickson, a chilling pattern he noticed during his last imprisonment.
Walt’s legal mind dismisses the observation as jail-house paranoia, but his instincts rage. Buried by the massive legal battle ahead, Walt reaches out to the one person he trusts to explore Brian’s MJ Fernandez, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter with whom he shares a special bond.
MJ and Walt become entangled in the twisted reality behind the catastrophic blaze as MJ’s fearless and dogged determination to discover the truth propels them into a multi-dimensional world of darkness they know nothing about, and wish they had never entered.
As the pieces of the puzzle snap into place, they quickly realize they are running out of time to bring those responsible to justice… and to save an innocent man.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2025
5 people are currently reading
4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 24, 2025
What a neat surprise this was. There’s a bookstore in my office building, and one day I stopped in and Joe Salerno, who is a local author, was doing an event for this book and its predecessor, The Decision. Although Million Dollar Men is a sequel, I was much more sold on it as apparently more of a mystery than The Decision, and the author was adamant that he wrote Million Dollar Men to function as a standalone novel. While there are many references to what I assume to be the events of The Decision, it absolutely did stand on its own.
Million Dollar Men is, at least initially, a whodunit thriller about an arson that kills a family of four in an otherwise quaint Massachusetts suburb. When the local police assign a lazy, misogynistic, casually cruel detective to the case, he wastes no time following clearly planted clues to arrest ex-convict Brian MacMillan, who has motive, means, opportunity, a past arson conviction, and no alibi—but is passionate about his innocence. Enter our heroes, Brian’s public defender Walt and Walt’s friend MJ, an investigative reporter whom Walt is flirtatious with. Walt, MJ, and Brian together untangle a web of corruption that goes in some absolutely wild directions.
I really admire how fleshed out, flawed, and believable the characters are in this book. While some people are clearly worse than others, just about everyone in here is capable of both good and bad. MJ is a particularly fun character to root for. But Brian is the emotional core of the book, to me: an ex-convict whose teenage malfeasance landed him in prison for years, working hard to get his life on track as an adult but constantly beaten back from doing so by corrupt men in powerful positions. Brian is so damaged by the powers that be that he spends most of the book being skeptical that Walt or MJ can really help him or even that they care about him at all, even as Walt puts almost everything else in his life on hold to focus on Brian’s case.
This book is very good. My one criticism is that there are some literary devices that seem to exist for the sake of plot convenience—in particular, MJ relies multiple times on “the team,” a group of super-hackers who can apparently obtain any covert information of interest for her. The James Bond/Mission Impossible-esque nature of MJ’s interactions with “the team” is fun, but it bothered me that we essentially get nothing on how they operate or why they care about MJ or why MJ trusts them. I assume some of this is covered in The Decision—a book I now intend to also read.
If you like tense mysteries, believe that prisons don’t provide justice and that everyone deserves to live and have the opportunity to grow and do better for themselves and others, and can stomach some mildly gross plot twists, you’ll probably like this book a lot.
Million Dollar Men is, at least initially, a whodunit thriller about an arson that kills a family of four in an otherwise quaint Massachusetts suburb. When the local police assign a lazy, misogynistic, casually cruel detective to the case, he wastes no time following clearly planted clues to arrest ex-convict Brian MacMillan, who has motive, means, opportunity, a past arson conviction, and no alibi—but is passionate about his innocence. Enter our heroes, Brian’s public defender Walt and Walt’s friend MJ, an investigative reporter whom Walt is flirtatious with. Walt, MJ, and Brian together untangle a web of corruption that goes in some absolutely wild directions.
I really admire how fleshed out, flawed, and believable the characters are in this book. While some people are clearly worse than others, just about everyone in here is capable of both good and bad. MJ is a particularly fun character to root for. But Brian is the emotional core of the book, to me: an ex-convict whose teenage malfeasance landed him in prison for years, working hard to get his life on track as an adult but constantly beaten back from doing so by corrupt men in powerful positions. Brian is so damaged by the powers that be that he spends most of the book being skeptical that Walt or MJ can really help him or even that they care about him at all, even as Walt puts almost everything else in his life on hold to focus on Brian’s case.
This book is very good. My one criticism is that there are some literary devices that seem to exist for the sake of plot convenience—in particular, MJ relies multiple times on “the team,” a group of super-hackers who can apparently obtain any covert information of interest for her. The James Bond/Mission Impossible-esque nature of MJ’s interactions with “the team” is fun, but it bothered me that we essentially get nothing on how they operate or why they care about MJ or why MJ trusts them. I assume some of this is covered in The Decision—a book I now intend to also read.
If you like tense mysteries, believe that prisons don’t provide justice and that everyone deserves to live and have the opportunity to grow and do better for themselves and others, and can stomach some mildly gross plot twists, you’ll probably like this book a lot.
December 13, 2025
Joe Salerno’s thriller mystery, Million Dollar Men, is an intelligent, warm, and exciting story of an ex-con, a goodhearted neighbor, a serviceable police officer, a fearless reporter, and a lovable lawyer. The cast of characters never disappoints, and the selection of viewpoints creates a panoramic view of an intricate mystery.
Brian McMillan is a young man trying to rebuild his life after multiple stints in jail for a selection of charges that arguably never should have landed him behind bars. Then a home burns down with a family inside, and Brian’s attempt at rebuilding his life may have gone up in smoke with it. All evidence points to him as the culprit, and he’s been around enough to know no one will believe his claim of innocence. But what should be a cut-and-dry case turns into something much more sinister when Brian’s lawyer, Walt Erickson, digs into the details. And when Walt turns his good friend, the series’ titular “pitbull” reporter MJ Hernandez, onto the mystery as well, the three are in the center of a conspiracy before they knew it had begun.
MJ, a decorated professional, is well-versed in danger and does not shy away from it. She experiences nerve-wracking moments that will have the reader biting their nails in anxious anticipation of what happens next. Walt experiences danger of a political and legal sort; his professional rivals wait with bated breath to destroy his career and his good social standing if he takes a single misstep.
With Brian’s future and even life hanging in the balance, Walt and MJ – as well as a selection of other lawyers, officers, and bystanders – dig deep into the mystery, which will either spell their own demise or blow a Pandora’s box of scandal and crime wide open.
Walt’s attention to detail, his love of good food, and MJ’s quirky habits lend a wholesome and full-bodied element to the narrative. Readers will find themselves cheering for MJ’s sharp wit and watchful eye as she skirts in and out of danger. Walt’s warmth and friendliness make him an invaluable asset to his client. The burgeoning relationship between Walt and MJ is one more plotline for the reader to root for.
The cast of villains is multilayered. Some believe they are good people. Some struggle with the decision to remain good people. Some have given up on being good altogether and revel in their violence. The shades of gray are all set in contrast with Walt and MJ, who, while full of human quirks and tempers, are both dead set on upholding a standard of law and order within their jobs and their world.
Readers eager to explore more of MJ’s world will be thrilled to discover that Million Dollar Men by Joe Salerno is the second in the MJ Fernandez Series, with more to come. The mystery is fully enclosed within the novel and will leave readers well satisfied with the ending.
Brian McMillan is a young man trying to rebuild his life after multiple stints in jail for a selection of charges that arguably never should have landed him behind bars. Then a home burns down with a family inside, and Brian’s attempt at rebuilding his life may have gone up in smoke with it. All evidence points to him as the culprit, and he’s been around enough to know no one will believe his claim of innocence. But what should be a cut-and-dry case turns into something much more sinister when Brian’s lawyer, Walt Erickson, digs into the details. And when Walt turns his good friend, the series’ titular “pitbull” reporter MJ Hernandez, onto the mystery as well, the three are in the center of a conspiracy before they knew it had begun.
MJ, a decorated professional, is well-versed in danger and does not shy away from it. She experiences nerve-wracking moments that will have the reader biting their nails in anxious anticipation of what happens next. Walt experiences danger of a political and legal sort; his professional rivals wait with bated breath to destroy his career and his good social standing if he takes a single misstep.
With Brian’s future and even life hanging in the balance, Walt and MJ – as well as a selection of other lawyers, officers, and bystanders – dig deep into the mystery, which will either spell their own demise or blow a Pandora’s box of scandal and crime wide open.
Walt’s attention to detail, his love of good food, and MJ’s quirky habits lend a wholesome and full-bodied element to the narrative. Readers will find themselves cheering for MJ’s sharp wit and watchful eye as she skirts in and out of danger. Walt’s warmth and friendliness make him an invaluable asset to his client. The burgeoning relationship between Walt and MJ is one more plotline for the reader to root for.
The cast of villains is multilayered. Some believe they are good people. Some struggle with the decision to remain good people. Some have given up on being good altogether and revel in their violence. The shades of gray are all set in contrast with Walt and MJ, who, while full of human quirks and tempers, are both dead set on upholding a standard of law and order within their jobs and their world.
Readers eager to explore more of MJ’s world will be thrilled to discover that Million Dollar Men by Joe Salerno is the second in the MJ Fernandez Series, with more to come. The mystery is fully enclosed within the novel and will leave readers well satisfied with the ending.
September 6, 2025
It is determined that arson killed a family. The focus of the investigation is Brian McMillan, a former felon and career criminal. McMillan ends up back in jail, where he never again wanted to be. He gets a note that tells him to keep quiet, but he isn’t sure what it’s referring to. Against his better judgement, he shares his fears and uncertainty with his lawyer, Walter Erickson.
Erickson reaches out to a journalist he knows. Together, the two of them begin to investigate. As they do, though, they begin to fear that they are in over their heads. Now, with time running out, they’re becoming certain McMillan didn’t commit the crime, but the answer to who did, and why, will shock them. This suspenseful novel has no shortage of unexpected twists and will leave readers guessing till the action-packed conclusion.
Erickson reaches out to a journalist he knows. Together, the two of them begin to investigate. As they do, though, they begin to fear that they are in over their heads. Now, with time running out, they’re becoming certain McMillan didn’t commit the crime, but the answer to who did, and why, will shock them. This suspenseful novel has no shortage of unexpected twists and will leave readers guessing till the action-packed conclusion.
September 9, 2025
Million Dollar Men captivated me from the first pages. It's one of those books you don't want to put down to find out what will happen next. What I liked most is how Joe Salerno manages to create an atmosphere of constant tension, with completely unexpected twists. Even when the detectives think they have everything figured out, something else happens. One of the characters I liked the most is the journalist who goes to the bottom in search of the truth. He's just too good; I love his tenacity and intuition. Another thing that captivated me was how the story makes you question what justice really means. I recommend this read! Million Dollar Men is an absorbing thriller, with well-developed characters, twists you don't see coming, and a story that leaves you thinking even after you finish it.
September 13, 2025
Extraordinary!
If you enjoy crime mysteries and plots with unexpected twists, you should consider this title. Have you ever thought about how difficult it is to find a book that hooks you so much that you don't care if it's long?
It's fast-paced and will hook you from the start, even though it may seem difficult to read because of its length. Despite being a long read, the story immerses you in a complex investigation where a lawyer and a journalist team up to solve a murder case that soon reveals a much larger conspiracy.
This book is an excellent choice because it combines legal intrigue with journalistic investigation, offering a unique perspective. It will keep you on the edge of your seat as the protagonist's search for clues and face danger. The tension grows with every step, making you feel like you are part of the search for the truth.
If you enjoy crime mysteries and plots with unexpected twists, you should consider this title. Have you ever thought about how difficult it is to find a book that hooks you so much that you don't care if it's long?
It's fast-paced and will hook you from the start, even though it may seem difficult to read because of its length. Despite being a long read, the story immerses you in a complex investigation where a lawyer and a journalist team up to solve a murder case that soon reveals a much larger conspiracy.
This book is an excellent choice because it combines legal intrigue with journalistic investigation, offering a unique perspective. It will keep you on the edge of your seat as the protagonist's search for clues and face danger. The tension grows with every step, making you feel like you are part of the search for the truth.
October 16, 2025
A solid thriller and the second installment in the series (I read both this week).
I read it in one day, as it’s a well-written and well-edited simple read and entertaining story.
I thought the ending was unnecessary abrupt and really didn’t tie up all the loose ends of the story. There was a little too much emphasis on the love interest side of the story and not enough on the thriller and mystery aspects. I was also a bit underwhelmed with the characters with the heroines being some masculine “bad ass” babes and the hero (male) being a bit of an effeminate friend zoned simp with a “dad bod”. Still, a good book and worth the time and money if you like the genre. I probably won’t continue with the series but others might enjoy MJ Fernandez more than me.
I read it in one day, as it’s a well-written and well-edited simple read and entertaining story.
I thought the ending was unnecessary abrupt and really didn’t tie up all the loose ends of the story. There was a little too much emphasis on the love interest side of the story and not enough on the thriller and mystery aspects. I was also a bit underwhelmed with the characters with the heroines being some masculine “bad ass” babes and the hero (male) being a bit of an effeminate friend zoned simp with a “dad bod”. Still, a good book and worth the time and money if you like the genre. I probably won’t continue with the series but others might enjoy MJ Fernandez more than me.
September 11, 2025
I loved this book!
I loved this book! It's a book full of mystery, from the moment our main character arrives in prison to the many inconveniences inside, which make the plot very valuable. Our protagonist wants to redeem himself to society, but there are different factors that affect his mission. During his stay, he begins to receive threats for things he did in his past, including revealing very important information to a very dangerous group of people. This book filled me with curiosity; I don't want to give too many spoilers so you can unravel all the mysteries it holds for yourselves. Without a doubt, this book is well worth reading from beginning to end.
I loved this book! It's a book full of mystery, from the moment our main character arrives in prison to the many inconveniences inside, which make the plot very valuable. Our protagonist wants to redeem himself to society, but there are different factors that affect his mission. During his stay, he begins to receive threats for things he did in his past, including revealing very important information to a very dangerous group of people. This book filled me with curiosity; I don't want to give too many spoilers so you can unravel all the mysteries it holds for yourselves. Without a doubt, this book is well worth reading from beginning to end.
September 12, 2025
A captivating novel
“Million dollar men” is the second book of the series penned by Joe Salerno. A complete family is found dead in the house and the detective focuses his investigation on Brian McMillan who has a prior arson conviction. While he’s writing for the trial, he receives a written threat that puts him on the alert. Strange things start to happen and Brian’s lawyer must find the ones who are threatening his client.
It’s a detective and crime story. There is a bit of everything here that will keep readers at the edge of their seats. The author’s writing style is so descriptive that allows readers to solve the puzzle with the characters. Without a doubt, I recommend it.
September 12, 2025
Because it had all the elements I look for in this genre, mystery, tension, and well-developed characters, this book captured my attention right away. The storyline transcends a straightforward criminal case, illustrating how challenging it can be to confront reality when every action seems to have a cost.
The inconsistencies between Brian's past and his present fragility made him an intriguing figure in my opinion. Walt maintains balance, and MJ is a powerful, straightforward figure whose energy drives the narrative. With unexpected turns, the story keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. I think it would be a fantastic TV series. I highly recommend this captivating read.
The inconsistencies between Brian's past and his present fragility made him an intriguing figure in my opinion. Walt maintains balance, and MJ is a powerful, straightforward figure whose energy drives the narrative. With unexpected turns, the story keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. I think it would be a fantastic TV series. I highly recommend this captivating read.
September 14, 2025
I love mystery books, which is why I stumbled upon this incredible read that really surprised me and left me wanting to continue reading this author's masterpieces. In this book, we see the story of an ex-convict who is arrested again after the murder of a family in circumstances quite similar to the crime that led him to prison in the first place. After this premise, we see everything he has to go through and the hidden truths that are each more interesting than the last. I highly recommend this book. It is super entertaining and also opens your eyes to the reality of life in prison, which is quite complicated.
October 9, 2025
Million Dollar Men is a riveting legal thriller that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Joe Salerno masterfully blends courtroom drama, investigative suspense, and high-stakes danger into a story that feels both authentic and electrifying. The dynamic between attorney Walter Erickson and investigative reporter MJ Fernandez adds emotional depth and intensity, while the plot twists keep you guessing until the very end. This is more than just a mystery it’s a thought-provoking exploration of justice, corruption, and courage in the face of darkness. Fans of smart, fast-paced thrillers will not want to miss this powerful installment in the MJ Fernandez Series.
October 18, 2025
Wow, this book pulled me in right from the start. Million Dollar Men is intense, emotional, and full of twists I didn’t see coming. The mix of courtroom drama, mystery, and human emotion kept me turning pages late into the night.
I really liked how real the characters felt especially Brian, who’s stuck between fear and doing what’s right. MJ and Walt made such a great team too. Joe Salerno did an amazing job building the suspense and showing how deep corruption can run.
If you love crime thrillers with heart and depth, this one’s definitely worth reading.
I really liked how real the characters felt especially Brian, who’s stuck between fear and doing what’s right. MJ and Walt made such a great team too. Joe Salerno did an amazing job building the suspense and showing how deep corruption can run.
If you love crime thrillers with heart and depth, this one’s definitely worth reading.
September 4, 2025
I just finished Joe Salerno's second book, Million Dollar Men. The short review is WOW!. I finished it in 2 days (on a work week!). The characters are fantastic and evoke such emotion from the reader that you become invested very quickly in the outcome. I love a book where you are rooting for the underdog. I can't wait for the next book!!
December 2, 2025
This story hooked me from the moment Brian received those mysterious threats in his cell. The tension builds so naturally, especially as MJ and Walt start uncovering something way bigger than a simple arson case. The sense of running out of time feels real. Brilliantly done.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews