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Magic City Murder: A Classic Private Investigator Mystery
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 6, 2026
About the author
Bruce Hammack
50 books434 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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August 2, 2026As soon as this book is published, I’ll be able to give it five stars, but then I think I always do with Bruce Hammack's books. They’re always fascinating and include characters I love to see returning.
Steve Smiley is a blind detective who has teamed up with Heather McBlythe to solve murder mysteries. However, in this story, he’s called upon to find a publishers husband, so she can serve him divorce papers. In the process, the woman that he was supposed to be living with was found dead. So a missing person’s investigation turns into a homicide investigation. And of course, Mr. Hammack does a masterful job of presenting all information piecemeal, but in detail.
So good. You won’t want to miss this one.
I was given this book as an ARC, but my review is only based on what I thought of it.
Steve Smiley is a blind detective who has teamed up with Heather McBlythe to solve murder mysteries. However, in this story, he’s called upon to find a publishers husband, so she can serve him divorce papers. In the process, the woman that he was supposed to be living with was found dead. So a missing person’s investigation turns into a homicide investigation. And of course, Mr. Hammack does a masterful job of presenting all information piecemeal, but in detail.
So good. You won’t want to miss this one.
I was given this book as an ARC, but my review is only based on what I thought of it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Like all of the books in this series, there is no need to have read the previous ones to enjoy this story. Here we find all the characters we've come to enjoy, along with a few surprises we didn't expect. A simple missing-husband case quickly turns into a murder investigation tangled up with Miami cartel money, political corruption, and the FBI bogged down in red tape and dropping the ball.
Steve wanders blindly where few dare to tread, meeting with Miami cartel thugs alone in his effort to free his editor from being framed for murder. The murder itself takes a back seat in this one — the real draw is the web of cartel intrigue: who's working for them, who isn't, and what they're willing to do to keep their secrets buried. Much of the action centers on a once-classy Miami hotel that ultimately burns to the ground in one of the book's most dramatic and intense moments.
Rasheed steals the show in this one — from staking out the hotel in a revolving door of disguises to catch cartel activity, to keeping you laughing with his fractured idioms. But when the hotel goes up in flames, he proves himself a true hero, saving many lives before succumbing to smoke inhalation and ending in the hospital.
And don't worry — Le Roi and Princess are along for the ride, reminding us these fine dogs can turn in a heartbeat from sweet therapy dogs to the fiercest protectors when needed — and maul a corrupt desk clerk threatening to spray them with mace. 'Smiley & McBlythe meet Miami Vice' — with better dogs!
Hammack's talent for scene-setting is on full display here. When the chase takes us all the way to Barcelona, you can taste the coffee, smell the saltwater, and feel the bustle of La Rambla around you. The man does his homework on locations and it shows.
While I enjoyed the story, I missed the nail-biting action, tension and energy found in some of his stronger books. After reading all his books in the series, this whodunit was somewhat predictable, but the cartel storyline kept me turning pages before I could finally get some sleep. A solid entry in a consistently entertaining clean-read mystery series.
Steve wanders blindly where few dare to tread, meeting with Miami cartel thugs alone in his effort to free his editor from being framed for murder. The murder itself takes a back seat in this one — the real draw is the web of cartel intrigue: who's working for them, who isn't, and what they're willing to do to keep their secrets buried. Much of the action centers on a once-classy Miami hotel that ultimately burns to the ground in one of the book's most dramatic and intense moments.
Rasheed steals the show in this one — from staking out the hotel in a revolving door of disguises to catch cartel activity, to keeping you laughing with his fractured idioms. But when the hotel goes up in flames, he proves himself a true hero, saving many lives before succumbing to smoke inhalation and ending in the hospital.
And don't worry — Le Roi and Princess are along for the ride, reminding us these fine dogs can turn in a heartbeat from sweet therapy dogs to the fiercest protectors when needed — and maul a corrupt desk clerk threatening to spray them with mace. 'Smiley & McBlythe meet Miami Vice' — with better dogs!
Hammack's talent for scene-setting is on full display here. When the chase takes us all the way to Barcelona, you can taste the coffee, smell the saltwater, and feel the bustle of La Rambla around you. The man does his homework on locations and it shows.
While I enjoyed the story, I missed the nail-biting action, tension and energy found in some of his stronger books. After reading all his books in the series, this whodunit was somewhat predictable, but the cartel storyline kept me turning pages before I could finally get some sleep. A solid entry in a consistently entertaining clean-read mystery series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Magic City Murder”
This is a well-written book with a witty dialogue and banter that moves the story along. The characters are well-developed and described. I enjoyed the humor in the book, which was an easy and quick read. The main characters in the novel are trained in policing, but operate outside of law organizations because detective Steve Smiley is retired and blind, and Heather McBlythe gave up her career in law enforcement to become part of her family’s real estate business. This combination of talents results in a characters who have incredible talent to solve crimes because of their backgrounds, and they also cooperate with the police; but at the same time, they are “arm-chair” detectives. The ending is well-developed and comes to a conclusion, which includes a new beginning for the future. This is a Christian cozy, with plenty of action. As usual, there are descriptions of the food and social interactions.
Locations and Settings: [Florida: Miami International Airport, Miami, Fort Lauderdale; Texas: Lake Conroe, The Woodlands; Spain: Barcelona (El Prat – Barcelona International Airport, La Rambla pedestrian walkway, Hotel Arts, Hotel Miramar); Mentioned: Boston, Massachusetts]
Books mentioned: Nero Wolfe books by Rex Stout, Raymond Chandler’s books with private eye Philip Marlowe
Dogs: Le Roi – a Giant Schnauzer, Princess – a German Shepherd, Duchess – a Schnauzer makes her very brief debut
Reader’s note: I discovered a name that seems to have some significance to the author? I was reading “Justice on a Midnight Clear” by Bruce Hammack at the same time that I was reading “Magic City Murder.” The name LeRoy was the father’s name in the Midnight Clear book and LeRoi is the dog’s name in several of Smiley and McBlythe mysteries, including this one.
Quote: “Your secret is safe with me, and I can sympathize with you. Maggie didn’t understand my love affair with cheeseburgers and fries, especially the French fries. She said they were my mistresses from Idaho.”
I read an Advanced Reader Copy of the book and this is my honest review.
This is a well-written book with a witty dialogue and banter that moves the story along. The characters are well-developed and described. I enjoyed the humor in the book, which was an easy and quick read. The main characters in the novel are trained in policing, but operate outside of law organizations because detective Steve Smiley is retired and blind, and Heather McBlythe gave up her career in law enforcement to become part of her family’s real estate business. This combination of talents results in a characters who have incredible talent to solve crimes because of their backgrounds, and they also cooperate with the police; but at the same time, they are “arm-chair” detectives. The ending is well-developed and comes to a conclusion, which includes a new beginning for the future. This is a Christian cozy, with plenty of action. As usual, there are descriptions of the food and social interactions.
Locations and Settings: [Florida: Miami International Airport, Miami, Fort Lauderdale; Texas: Lake Conroe, The Woodlands; Spain: Barcelona (El Prat – Barcelona International Airport, La Rambla pedestrian walkway, Hotel Arts, Hotel Miramar); Mentioned: Boston, Massachusetts]
Books mentioned: Nero Wolfe books by Rex Stout, Raymond Chandler’s books with private eye Philip Marlowe
Dogs: Le Roi – a Giant Schnauzer, Princess – a German Shepherd, Duchess – a Schnauzer makes her very brief debut
Reader’s note: I discovered a name that seems to have some significance to the author? I was reading “Justice on a Midnight Clear” by Bruce Hammack at the same time that I was reading “Magic City Murder.” The name LeRoy was the father’s name in the Midnight Clear book and LeRoi is the dog’s name in several of Smiley and McBlythe mysteries, including this one.
Quote: “Your secret is safe with me, and I can sympathize with you. Maggie didn’t understand my love affair with cheeseburgers and fries, especially the French fries. She said they were my mistresses from Idaho.”
I read an Advanced Reader Copy of the book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Magic City Murder is a wonderfully crafted mystery that delivers exactly what fans of classic detective fiction hope to find intelligent investigation, memorable characters, engaging dialogue, and a plot that steadily grows more compelling with every chapter. Bruce Hammack doesn't rely on cheap twists or nonstop action to keep readers invested. Instead, he builds suspense through careful storytelling, meaningful conversations, and characters whose personalities feel authentic and genuinely enjoyable to spend time with. Steve Smiley immediately stands out as a remarkable protagonist, proving that observation, logic, and experience can be far more powerful than sight itself. His partnership with Heather McBlythe creates a dynamic that feels natural, witty, and deeply believable, while Rasheed adds warmth, humor, and charm that balance the darker moments perfectly. The novel moves at a comfortable pace, allowing readers to appreciate both the investigation and the relationships without ever feeling slow. Every clue feels intentional, every conversation serves a purpose, and the mystery continually invites readers to think alongside the detectives instead of simply waiting for answers. The Miami setting adds another layer of atmosphere, making the investigation feel vibrant and immersive. What impressed me most was the author's ability to combine traditional detective work with emotional depth, giving the story heart without sacrificing suspense. It is evident that Bruce Hammack invested tremendous care into constructing both the mystery and the people who inhabit it. By the end, the novel leaves readers satisfied while also appreciating the craftsmanship behind every chapter. Magic City Murder is an intelligent, entertaining, and highly engaging mystery that I would gladly recommend to anyone who enjoys thoughtful crime fiction, memorable investigators, and mysteries driven by deduction rather than spectacle.
August 6, 2026
When his old editor and friend Kate calls Steve to ask for help in finding her missing, cheating husband so he can be served with divorce papers, Steve heads to Florida to help. But what seems a simple case grows increasingly complex when the woman he left Kate for turns up dead. Given that she'd been investigating cartels, such an end might not seem overly surprising, but there's still a killer to find, as well as a husband who may or may not be innocent. Can Steve and Heather, with help from Rasheed and Bella (at a distance) discover the truth before they need to be back in Texas for the birth of Bella's baby? And preferably with no more casualties?
Another enjoyable read in the series - I enjoyed seeing more of the various characters, including the developing relationship between Heather and her dad. The mystery itself kept me guessing right through to the end, though I'd have to say that the 'end past the end' was perhaps my favourite part after all - there's something about babies that's special. The latest chapter of Steve and Kate's rocky relationship was... interesting, and I'm curious to see what comes next, particularly if it means throwing a third dog into the mix. Hoping to see a bit more of Jack in the next book, even if it's clear that he and Heather aren't going anywhere any time soon. All in all, a good read - 4.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Another enjoyable read in the series - I enjoyed seeing more of the various characters, including the developing relationship between Heather and her dad. The mystery itself kept me guessing right through to the end, though I'd have to say that the 'end past the end' was perhaps my favourite part after all - there's something about babies that's special. The latest chapter of Steve and Kate's rocky relationship was... interesting, and I'm curious to see what comes next, particularly if it means throwing a third dog into the mix. Hoping to see a bit more of Jack in the next book, even if it's clear that he and Heather aren't going anywhere any time soon. All in all, a good read - 4.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magic City Murder is the kind of mystery that feels like settling back in with old friends—assuming your friends happen to solve murders, fly around the country in private jets, travel with highly trained service dogs, and have a knack for finding trouble wherever they go.
Steve Smiley, the blind former homicide detective whose observational skills are nothing short of remarkable, and his partnership with Heather McBlythe continues to be the heart of the story. Their loyalty, mutual respect, and occasional banter make them an enjoyable team to follow.
What begins as a missing person case soon develops into something much darker. The story has an old-school detective feel while still feeling contemporary.
Rasheed provides just the right amount of humor without becoming comic relief, and the inclusion of the service dogs adds warmth and personality to the story. The dogs never felt like gimmicks—they're genuinely part of the investigative team.
There are a lot of recurring characters and references to previous events. New readers can certainly follow the story, but longtime fans will likely appreciate many of the emotional connections even more.
Overall, Magic City Murder is an engaging, character-driven mystery with a likable cast, a well-paced investigation, and enough heart to separate it from many traditional detective novels.
Steve Smiley, the blind former homicide detective whose observational skills are nothing short of remarkable, and his partnership with Heather McBlythe continues to be the heart of the story. Their loyalty, mutual respect, and occasional banter make them an enjoyable team to follow.
What begins as a missing person case soon develops into something much darker. The story has an old-school detective feel while still feeling contemporary.
Rasheed provides just the right amount of humor without becoming comic relief, and the inclusion of the service dogs adds warmth and personality to the story. The dogs never felt like gimmicks—they're genuinely part of the investigative team.
There are a lot of recurring characters and references to previous events. New readers can certainly follow the story, but longtime fans will likely appreciate many of the emotional connections even more.
Overall, Magic City Murder is an engaging, character-driven mystery with a likable cast, a well-paced investigation, and enough heart to separate it from many traditional detective novels.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am an ARC reviewer.
I first discovered Hammack's stories several years ago, prior to being an ARC reviewer. I truly enjoyed the entire series and no, you do not need to read them from the beginning to read this or any of his novels. However, if you do not, you miss how Bruce Hammack has developed his characters with each story.
Heather McBlythe has transformed into a woman one can truly appreciate. She's learned that a person cannot be one dimensional. How her relationship with her father has morphed is particularly joyful.
Steve's character remains mostly constant, though we have seen some chinks in his armor. It was great to see that he, too, could soldier on despite having a case that hit too close for comfort.
Hammack weaves many different twists into each of his stories. These twists made it really, really difficult to identify the killer...and in fact, I never saw it coming. I do not want to provide any spoilers so I'll leave it up to you to read and, perhaps, go down the same rabbit hole I fell into.
Would I recommend this book, that is a resounding YES!!!
I first discovered Hammack's stories several years ago, prior to being an ARC reviewer. I truly enjoyed the entire series and no, you do not need to read them from the beginning to read this or any of his novels. However, if you do not, you miss how Bruce Hammack has developed his characters with each story.
Heather McBlythe has transformed into a woman one can truly appreciate. She's learned that a person cannot be one dimensional. How her relationship with her father has morphed is particularly joyful.
Steve's character remains mostly constant, though we have seen some chinks in his armor. It was great to see that he, too, could soldier on despite having a case that hit too close for comfort.
Hammack weaves many different twists into each of his stories. These twists made it really, really difficult to identify the killer...and in fact, I never saw it coming. I do not want to provide any spoilers so I'll leave it up to you to read and, perhaps, go down the same rabbit hole I fell into.
Would I recommend this book, that is a resounding YES!!!
Review of advance copy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I just finished reading "Magic City Murder", Book 16 of the Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series by Bruce Hammack. This author is new to me, but won't remain that way. I've already downloaded the first book in the series and started reading about how it all began for the two lead characters.
The lead characters are Steve Smiley, a blind former homicide detective, and his partner, Heather McBlythe, also a former cop and lawyer. They investigate the case of a missing husband whose estranged wife is seeking to serve divorce papers. What seems to be a routine case turns out to have more twists than a pretzel. Murder takes the pair to Florida and Europe, tracking down the husband, who might also be a suspect in the murder of an investigative reporter.
Add in some cartel involvement and the intrigue and duplicity heighten.
As a first-time reader of this author, I was impressed by his relatable dialogue between his characters. I enjoy reading a well-written book, and this was definitely one.
For an extremely relaxing read, I highly recommend "Magic City Murder."
I just finished reading "Magic City Murder", Book 16 of the Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series by Bruce Hammack. This author is new to me, but won't remain that way. I've already downloaded the first book in the series and started reading about how it all began for the two lead characters.
The lead characters are Steve Smiley, a blind former homicide detective, and his partner, Heather McBlythe, also a former cop and lawyer. They investigate the case of a missing husband whose estranged wife is seeking to serve divorce papers. What seems to be a routine case turns out to have more twists than a pretzel. Murder takes the pair to Florida and Europe, tracking down the husband, who might also be a suspect in the murder of an investigative reporter.
Add in some cartel involvement and the intrigue and duplicity heighten.
As a first-time reader of this author, I was impressed by his relatable dialogue between his characters. I enjoy reading a well-written book, and this was definitely one.
For an extremely relaxing read, I highly recommend "Magic City Murder."
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could hardly wait for Bruce Hammack’s newest Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe book, Magic City Murder. I am a big Smiley and McBlythe series fan and this newest addition did not disappoint. It totally lived up to my expectations for a fast moving plot with my favorite characters. Magic City refers to Miami (as I am sure the Miami Magic basketball fans know only too well) and that is where most of the action takes place. The book incorporates the characters’ keen observational skills to unravel the mystery and reveal both the murderer and the motivation behind it, but it also gives insight into the workings of other criminal activities which might be transpiring right under our own noses. It lets us in on how criminal enterprises cover their illicit dealings to appear legitimate. I highly recommend this fine author’s newest work! I received this advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
Bruce Hammack does it again. He successfully delivers a gripping and thoroughly entertaining mystery in Magic City Murder.
From the opening chapter, I was pulled into a world of intrigue, deception, and well-crafted suspense. The pacing is excellent, with just the right balance of investigation, character development, and unexpected twists.
The characters, especially Smiley and McBlythe, feel authentic and memorable, and the setting adds a vivid atmosphere that makes the story even more immersive.
I loved the fact that every time I thought I'd solved the mystery, the author introduced another clever twist that kept me guessing until the very end.
If you enjoy smart, fast-paced murder mysteries with strong storytelling and satisfying surprises, Magic City Murder is a must-read. Bruce Hammack’s work is rapidly becoming a firm favourite.
I thank the author and Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this eARC and leave this review voluntarily.
From the opening chapter, I was pulled into a world of intrigue, deception, and well-crafted suspense. The pacing is excellent, with just the right balance of investigation, character development, and unexpected twists.
The characters, especially Smiley and McBlythe, feel authentic and memorable, and the setting adds a vivid atmosphere that makes the story even more immersive.
I loved the fact that every time I thought I'd solved the mystery, the author introduced another clever twist that kept me guessing until the very end.
If you enjoy smart, fast-paced murder mysteries with strong storytelling and satisfying surprises, Magic City Murder is a must-read. Bruce Hammack’s work is rapidly becoming a firm favourite.
I thank the author and Book Sirens for the opportunity to read this eARC and leave this review voluntarily.
August 6, 2026
As Smiley makes plans to go off on his own to help an old friend, of course his sleuthing partner Heather McBlythe pushes her way onto the plane with him. Not a murder? The title of this book should already have given away the fact that, no matter their original reason for heading south to help Smiley's writing coach, it doesn't take long before Steve, Heather, Rashid, 2 dogs and more find danger, as they search for a missing husband, his missing mistress amid the chaos of possible drug cartels' interest in the whole thing. Because I prefer my murder mysteries to be served with a strong dose of humor, some (non-gooey) romance, well mixed with likeable characters, a couple of regal service dogs and a twisting plot that keeps surprising, Bruce Hammack's novels are always immediately devoured as the beta version comes to me to read, watching for any editing or spelling glitches along the way. Don't miss this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I truly loved this book. I found I read so much at a time, I neglected work and sleep.
The Smiley and McBlythe series has a number of regular characters who make the reading fun. Rasheed is one of the more recent ones but he takes a bigger role in this mystery. Bella is back and helping but becomes a new mother. Another development that did not surprise met but the speed at which it is happening was a surprise is Heather and her Dad working towards merging their businesses. One final comment on content is the fact that Steve did not have the kind of reveal he has had in a number of his prior books
Bruce Hammack is a craftsman at character development and plot development which will keep me reading his books. I have only 3 authors whom I can say who belong in that position for me.
The Smiley and McBlythe series has a number of regular characters who make the reading fun. Rasheed is one of the more recent ones but he takes a bigger role in this mystery. Bella is back and helping but becomes a new mother. Another development that did not surprise met but the speed at which it is happening was a surprise is Heather and her Dad working towards merging their businesses. One final comment on content is the fact that Steve did not have the kind of reveal he has had in a number of his prior books
Bruce Hammack is a craftsman at character development and plot development which will keep me reading his books. I have only 3 authors whom I can say who belong in that position for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I liked this next book of Heather and Steve working together and their support staffers, dogs included. I do have few nit picky items. 1. I like Rasheed’s turn of phrases and don’t think he should be corrected constantly. Steve could just roll his eyes. 2. These people throw money around because apparently they have a bottomless well of currency, and it was hard to feel sorry when Heather had to sit in an extended leg room seat, but of course not for long. 3. Sometimes Steve treats Heather like she’s a good little girl and I expect him to pat her on her head and tell her to wait for him to solve the murder and he couldn’t possibly share his insights with her. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good book, with well developed characters and action.
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July 24, 2026I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. I really enjoy this Steve Smiley series and this book is just the latest by Bruce Hammock in which Steve, top homicide detective in Houston, Texas who lost his wife, his sight and consequently his job in a senseless late night attack. He and his property developer partner are a great crime solving partnership. With their two service dogs and resourceful driver/assistant they are are a formidable team written in such a way that each case is different, original and hard to put down until Steve, usually, comes up with the answers. The team has developed over the course of the series and every book, especially the latest, is a great read
Review of advance copy received from Author
I adore the Smiley and McBlythe Mystery series. And Bruce just keeps them coming and spins a great clean mystery. That said, followers of this series will want to grab their copy as soon as it's available (like pre-order?). The characters continue to grow in complexity and the cast of characters increases. This is a great read - did I mention I binge-read it? If you are a writer, a mystery buff or an arm-chair sleuth, you will enjoy this one. It takes you into the publishing world, as Steve is picking up his writing again and we see an old friend this time. But wait - something is amiss, and soon Steve, Heather and crew are on their way to Miami to investigate. Don't wait - pre-order this one and read it as soon as it's delivered. You will not be dissappointed.
Review of advance copy
What a phenomenal read. The lengths Steve and Heather go to to get answers and resolve issues and false claims is remarkable. This seemed to be more hard hitting (I loved that) than previous books and more personal also. I'll explain. The cartel wars and a blind detective and a lawyer fighting the odds. The personal side to me, I think we get more insights into Heather and her father's relationships , personal and business. Altogether, these dynamics made this an unputdownable book. Must read, compelling and gripping read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Review of advance copy
Another hit. I really enjoy the banter between all the characters including the service dogs actions. Steve and Heather are off to Miami.
Yes we have a missing husband and there is a death but not until after they have arrived. Whose death you ask… could it be the soon to be ex's girlfriend? Are the writers involved or cartel? They put themselves in a lot of danger, and dear Rasheed is a hero and gets hurt too.
We have a lot of activity, fear, cartel, acquisitions and a soon to be mother. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another enjoyable read!
Yes we have a missing husband and there is a death but not until after they have arrived. Whose death you ask… could it be the soon to be ex's girlfriend? Are the writers involved or cartel? They put themselves in a lot of danger, and dear Rasheed is a hero and gets hurt too.
We have a lot of activity, fear, cartel, acquisitions and a soon to be mother. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another enjoyable read!
Review of advance copy
Magic City Murder is Book 15 in A Smiley and McBlythe Mystery by Bruce Hammack. I have read all 15 books in this series. I hope Bruce Hammack writes 15 more because this series is wonderful. The characters, Steve and Heather are perfect main characters. Kate's husband is missing and she wants to divorce Peter… if only she can find him. When the body of the woman he is living with is murdered. The story fits off the pages and I couldn't put the book down. While Steve is blind, he doesn't miss much. This book should be on your TBR list. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This series keeps getting better and better. For saying this is book 15, it still feels fresh but familiar at the same time. Steve and Heather, along with the regular characters, (especially Le Rio and Princess) are a lovely mix of people & animals. The story grips you from the start, there are twists and turns galore and I still didn’t predict the ending, which is always good. I like the slightly harder side of Steve, and softer versions of Heather and Allistair, and the fact that everyone is longing to meet the new arrival. Enjoyable read as always.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can't believe Magic City Murder is the 15th in the series of Smiley and McBlythe! It is so refreshing and entertaining! I loved how Bruce Hammack's writing is clean and flowed throughout the book.
This was supposed to be a simple missing case of a husband disappearing with his' girlfriend, business and money, leaving his' wife to track him down so her attorney can have him served with divorce papers but then a murder, cartels, drug dealers, and explosions happen and uncover so much more that you just need to read this one ASAP! I read this book as an ARC reader and this is an honest opinion.
This was supposed to be a simple missing case of a husband disappearing with his' girlfriend, business and money, leaving his' wife to track him down so her attorney can have him served with divorce papers but then a murder, cartels, drug dealers, and explosions happen and uncover so much more that you just need to read this one ASAP! I read this book as an ARC reader and this is an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
Great story that takes Steve and Heather from Texas to Miami for a missing persons case and then to Spain to locate their man. Rasheed is along with each of their dogs as they not only hunt the missing man, but stumble upon a murdered woman who may be a connection, and also a formerly five star hotel that has slumped and may be connected to it all as well as maybe cartel connections, or is some things just a cover...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Magic City Murder by Bruce Hammack is the 16th book in this series. I absolutely love this series and this author! The book kept me trying to figure out "whodunit" and I was surprised that who committed the crime. There we so many logical suspects, but it all fell into place at the end.
The plot and the characters are very well developed. I finished this book in 2 sittings. I could not wait to read the next chapter. I received an advance copy from the author and I always review every book that I read. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
The plot and the characters are very well developed. I finished this book in 2 sittings. I could not wait to read the next chapter. I received an advance copy from the author and I always review every book that I read. I cannot wait for the next book in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having read other books by this author I was expecting good things and wasn’t disappointed. This time, not only did I have no clue as to who the murderer was, I wasn’t even sure who the suspects were. As always, the lives of the main characters move forward in ongoing storylines which makes this a must-read series. If you haven’t read any of these books yet, I highly recommend you start at the beginning and work your way through them. Once you start, you won’t be able to put them down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
An exciting Smiley and McBlythe story that doesn't disappoint. It starts out with a simple task of finding a missing husband to serve divorce papers to, and end up with much more excitement and intrigue.... and new life.
I love this series as it is always a clean story without blood and gore. I also find it fascinating how Steve thinks and moves solving crimes as he is blind, but that only shows added sensory perceptions at work.
I was provided with an advance copy of the book; this review is my honest opinion and I give it voluntarily. I recommend it highly!
I love this series as it is always a clean story without blood and gore. I also find it fascinating how Steve thinks and moves solving crimes as he is blind, but that only shows added sensory perceptions at work.
I was provided with an advance copy of the book; this review is my honest opinion and I give it voluntarily. I recommend it highly!
August 7, 2026
This is another well-written Smiley and McBlythe book. Although part of a series, it works as a standalone.
The book has a few plots that are all resolved, but not without some surprises and moments of danger. Rasheed, one of my favorite characters, plays a significant role in the story. I don't go into the plot in my reviews as that is readily available.
A bonus is the information about Barcelona where Steve and Heather have a brief visit.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book has a few plots that are all resolved, but not without some surprises and moments of danger. Rasheed, one of my favorite characters, plays a significant role in the story. I don't go into the plot in my reviews as that is readily available.
A bonus is the information about Barcelona where Steve and Heather have a brief visit.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The book went far above my expectations. I read it in one setting because I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Surprise after surprise, I love the when people from past books come back, and yet they seem new. I never get tired .of these books and can't wait for the next one. If you haven't read others of his you are missing.heck them all out you won't be sorry.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2026
I received an advance review copy via Book Sirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is my 2nd book in the Smiley-McBlythe series. My first was a Christmas one - Tinsel, Trees and Treachery. You don’t need to be reading these in order to understand the characters at all.
This time they are in Miami helping their friend Katie find her missing husband. She wants to serve him with divorce papers. What seems to be an easy case turns into a mighty dangerous mystery. Fueled by money, with cartels involved, and a shabby hotel with memories for Heather’ dad, the crew have to watch their collective backs!
I loved that Rasheed was more prominent and integral to the mystery. He gives a lot of comic relief this time. Seeing Heather & her dad get closer and even think about merging their businesses was a great side story. Could there be issues to solve by the team for another book in the future?
Overall another great mystery without it being too easy. Never let down by these books. If you like these, try Mr. Hammack’s Fen Maguire series. Just as good!
This is my 2nd book in the Smiley-McBlythe series. My first was a Christmas one - Tinsel, Trees and Treachery. You don’t need to be reading these in order to understand the characters at all.
This time they are in Miami helping their friend Katie find her missing husband. She wants to serve him with divorce papers. What seems to be an easy case turns into a mighty dangerous mystery. Fueled by money, with cartels involved, and a shabby hotel with memories for Heather’ dad, the crew have to watch their collective backs!
I loved that Rasheed was more prominent and integral to the mystery. He gives a lot of comic relief this time. Seeing Heather & her dad get closer and even think about merging their businesses was a great side story. Could there be issues to solve by the team for another book in the future?
Overall another great mystery without it being too easy. Never let down by these books. If you like these, try Mr. Hammack’s Fen Maguire series. Just as good!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed Magic City Murder. Every time Steve and Heather and their friends tackle another murder investigation, you can always count on twists and turns and surprises around every bend. These books are like sitting down with a good friend and a cup of hot cocoa to have a chat. Part of this takes place in Barcelona which is one of my favorite places to go. I did, however, find myself staying awake far to late in order to "just finish the next chapter"!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m happy to see a new book in this series. I always enjoy reading about Heather and Steve and their latest adventure. The banter between the two, and additionally with Rasheed, is always fun to read. As usual, there is a mystery, some danger, and building on the characters in the series. I’m already looking forward to the next book. I received an advanced review copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Texas isn’t big enough for the talents of Smiley and McBlythe. Just helping a good friend pulls them in. A missing person search shouldn’t be that hard, but the details matter. And details are what Steve Smiley finds. Every detail is his to put together events. So it should come as no surprise that they find multiple crimes in progress. The crimes lead them to Miami, Barcelona and back. Back for a most blessed event.
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