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Pokergeist
Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost. Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2015
22 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Michael Phillip Cash
15 books2,005 followersMichael Phillip Cash is an award-winning and best-selling author and screenwriter of horror, paranormal, and science fiction novels.
Michael's resides on the North Shore of Long Island.
Michael Phillip Cash also writes as Michael Okon.
Michael's resides on the North Shore of Long Island.
Michael Phillip Cash also writes as Michael Okon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 9, 2020
3.5 stars
Only there were a few things that got in the way...talent and...well, that's pretty much it.
He was a bad poker player.
How bad? Very bad.
But, through a coincidence of wishes, Clutch - a recently deceased world-class poker player - and Telly are now connected.
This was a fun premise, but I had trouble connecting to the characters.
Clutch was an obsessed, narcissistic mean old man...and his character didn't really change throughout the book.
I love it when characters start like that but transition towards a decent human being at the end...but that didn't really happen in this book.
Even the Angel kept hinting that Clutch needed to change himself and that didn't really happen.
I suppose he did soften towards his estranged daughter, so there was some development...
Telly was a bit too naive and Gretchen (Telly's girlfriend) felt more like a prop than a person.
I like the idea of the ghost coming back for a thorough revenge a**kicking...but I feel like the book could have developed that a bit more.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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Telly has always had this wild, crazy dream - to become a professional poker player.
"It feels irresponsible. What if it doesn't work?...It goes against everything my parents taught me."
Only there were a few things that got in the way...talent and...well, that's pretty much it.
He was a bad poker player.
How bad? Very bad.
But, through a coincidence of wishes, Clutch - a recently deceased world-class poker player - and Telly are now connected.
"But you're dead. You can't help me. It's probably the wings. I knew I shouldn't have eaten the wings."Clutch wants to win the grand prize and Telly wants to win any prize.
I'll show each and every one of you money-hungry bastards what it's like to lose, and there ain't nothing you can do about it.But the idea of pairing up with Clutch ended up being far better than the actual thing.
"I just want you out of my life. I don't want to ever see another card again."Will Telly make it to the finals? Or will Clutch drive him out of his mind?
This was a fun premise, but I had trouble connecting to the characters.
Clutch was an obsessed, narcissistic mean old man...and his character didn't really change throughout the book.
I love it when characters start like that but transition towards a decent human being at the end...but that didn't really happen in this book.
Even the Angel kept hinting that Clutch needed to change himself and that didn't really happen.
I suppose he did soften towards his estranged daughter, so there was some development...
Telly was a bit too naive and Gretchen (Telly's girlfriend) felt more like a prop than a person.
She was never bitter about it, his Gretchen - sweet, charming Gretchen, the most likable person he'd ever met. She was so beautiful, he could stare at her face for hours.That being said, the plot was interesting (and that's coming from someone who doesn't know a thing about poker)!
I like the idea of the ghost coming back for a thorough revenge a**kicking...but I feel like the book could have developed that a bit more.
"I'll tell ya. I want the bracelet. It's always been about the bracelet."
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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January 27, 2016
I couldn't resist the lure of this book - a bad ass cover and a ghost. I love ghosts, but they're kind of the underdog of fiction. Random hauntings are common, but actual ghost character? I don't read enough of them.
I went into this thinking it was a paranormal ghost-themed mystery. By the way, there's no mystery and I was wrong. I don't know how to categorize this other than general paranormal fiction. It's a short read and a fast fly through this ghostly romp, but while the beginning is great and the ending satisfying, the middle lags behind.
Writing style was good and dialogue convincing enough, but the author does need to work on point of view shifts. Points of view are randomly changed in the middle of the scene, which is a 'writing no.' Some of the characters got on my nerves eventually, like the girlfriend, who became too whiny and demanding. She was all for it before, so why - when he wins - is she so against? I get the lying deal but if she'd just listen for a second to someone she supposedly trusts and let's the man actually explain...
At first I was into the poker spiel, but I couldn't hold interest for the whole duration. I think what it was is that the story dished out all the goodies too soon, so that the first part was entrancing, but when you get to the mid and there's no big revelations, game changers, twists, or surprises left, you're kind of coasting along for the rest of the ride until it stops.
I did like the ending though, it had a surprise at the big showdown and then a sweet wrap-up.
Overall worth a read - it's different and it has a GHOST (*heart*), but it needs some tweaking to be a higher rated haunt.
September 11, 2015
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Michael Phillip Cash, Chelshire Inc., and AuthorBuzz for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.
Cash provides readers with another entertaining novella, full of humour and paranormal activity at the same time. Clutch Henderson is a great poker player, so great that he's made it to the final table at the International Series of Poker. After falling just short, his heart literally cannot take the pressure, leading to his death. A year later and Las Vegas is gearing up for another tournament, with young Telly Martin itching to get in on the action. Telly, a decent poker player amongst his friends, simply cannot make ends meet at the Vegas tables and has all but given up his dream. Walking down The Strip one night, he makes a wish, one that Clutch Henderson, now in spirit form, wishes to help him meet; winning the International Series. Skeptical at first, Telly tries to dodge Clutch's grasp, but after a series of events, it's all in for the young player. Clutch and Telly work together, weaving their way through the twelve-thousand entrants in hopes of making it to the final table, where one man stands in their way. Cash puts all his chips down in this wonderfully crafted story, mixing he nuances of competitive poker with the banter between the living and the dead. A must-read for those eager to be swept up in the river of high-stakes cards.
Cash shows that he can return to his paranormal theme, yet make the premise new and exciting. While Telly Martin is not haunted by the likes of Clutch, their banter is one that tickles the funny bone of the reader. At times I thought how interesting a screenplay this might make as well, with the give-and-take between the two characters. Cash does, however, flesh out the story with a number of other characters and storylines, all of which add to the excitement of the larger plot. With quick narrative and intuitive dialogue, peppered with poker lingo, the reader can feel in the middle of the tournament and the world of high-stakes cards without leaving their couch. Easily read in an afternoon, Cash pulls the reader in and will not let go until the story's been told; the test of a real author's abilities.
Kudos, Mr. Cash for another great book. I have added you to my radar to check out in the future.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Cash provides readers with another entertaining novella, full of humour and paranormal activity at the same time. Clutch Henderson is a great poker player, so great that he's made it to the final table at the International Series of Poker. After falling just short, his heart literally cannot take the pressure, leading to his death. A year later and Las Vegas is gearing up for another tournament, with young Telly Martin itching to get in on the action. Telly, a decent poker player amongst his friends, simply cannot make ends meet at the Vegas tables and has all but given up his dream. Walking down The Strip one night, he makes a wish, one that Clutch Henderson, now in spirit form, wishes to help him meet; winning the International Series. Skeptical at first, Telly tries to dodge Clutch's grasp, but after a series of events, it's all in for the young player. Clutch and Telly work together, weaving their way through the twelve-thousand entrants in hopes of making it to the final table, where one man stands in their way. Cash puts all his chips down in this wonderfully crafted story, mixing he nuances of competitive poker with the banter between the living and the dead. A must-read for those eager to be swept up in the river of high-stakes cards.
Cash shows that he can return to his paranormal theme, yet make the premise new and exciting. While Telly Martin is not haunted by the likes of Clutch, their banter is one that tickles the funny bone of the reader. At times I thought how interesting a screenplay this might make as well, with the give-and-take between the two characters. Cash does, however, flesh out the story with a number of other characters and storylines, all of which add to the excitement of the larger plot. With quick narrative and intuitive dialogue, peppered with poker lingo, the reader can feel in the middle of the tournament and the world of high-stakes cards without leaving their couch. Easily read in an afternoon, Cash pulls the reader in and will not let go until the story's been told; the test of a real author's abilities.
Kudos, Mr. Cash for another great book. I have added you to my radar to check out in the future.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
July 21, 2015
Paranormal poker
This is a fun fast read by an author I've enjoyed in the past - Michael Phillip Cash.
Las Vegas amateur poker player Telly Martin gets more than he bargained for when pro Clutch Henderson decides to help him out. The only thing is that Clutch died a year ago and is now a ghost. And Telly's girlfriend does not want him playing poker any more - and Clutch is very adamant about wanting to play and win one more time.
This has some memorable characters, a plotline that is a bit woo-woo but is still "almost" believable and followed through with an epilogue, which I always like.
If you want a quick entertaining story with a good shot of the paranormal and a tale that ends up at the fictitious International Series of Poker tournament, try out POKERGEIST.
NOTE: I received this book through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
This is a fun fast read by an author I've enjoyed in the past - Michael Phillip Cash.
Las Vegas amateur poker player Telly Martin gets more than he bargained for when pro Clutch Henderson decides to help him out. The only thing is that Clutch died a year ago and is now a ghost. And Telly's girlfriend does not want him playing poker any more - and Clutch is very adamant about wanting to play and win one more time.
This has some memorable characters, a plotline that is a bit woo-woo but is still "almost" believable and followed through with an epilogue, which I always like.
If you want a quick entertaining story with a good shot of the paranormal and a tale that ends up at the fictitious International Series of Poker tournament, try out POKERGEIST.
NOTE: I received this book through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
August 12, 2015
I absolutely love the way this author writes! I have read and reviewed every single one of his books which are listed in About the Author below. Do I have a favorite? No, I love them all--I love how he brings ghosts into the realm of the living-you can't help but laugh at their antics. Of course The Hanging Tree, which is actually a short novella still resonates through my brain every once in a while-if you get a chance --read it. Actually I would suggest you read all of Michael Cash's books if you enjoy a bit of laughter with really good and interesting plots! Every one of them is a stand alone-except the Battle for Darracia series which is totally suitable for teens and adults alike and all three books can now be found in one volume.
Poker can be an addiction and in the case of Clutch Henderson--even unto death. He wants that gold bracelet that the winner of the tournament gets. Unfortunately he dies while playing with a kid who beat him. Telly, a computer programmer who just lost his job and is thinking about playing Poker for a living unfortunately makes the same wish at the same time as Clutch. Clutch is relentless----he follows Telly everywhere until he finally gets him to buy into the tournament--not an easy task. But is there more then one ghost cheating? You will have to read the book to find out--and by the way--the ending will have you smiling!!
Pokergeist
Poker can be an addiction and in the case of Clutch Henderson--even unto death. He wants that gold bracelet that the winner of the tournament gets. Unfortunately he dies while playing with a kid who beat him. Telly, a computer programmer who just lost his job and is thinking about playing Poker for a living unfortunately makes the same wish at the same time as Clutch. Clutch is relentless----he follows Telly everywhere until he finally gets him to buy into the tournament--not an easy task. But is there more then one ghost cheating? You will have to read the book to find out--and by the way--the ending will have you smiling!!
Pokergeist
August 18, 2015
There is just something different about the atmosphere in Las Vegas and for some, Poker the game of strategy and knowing your opponents even has HUGE competitions to decide who is the royalty of the cards and chips? Who has the staying power to know when to hold ‘em or know when to fold ‘em? Clutch Henderson was a pro, a winner, but when he finally made it to the last table, worth millions, he fell short, one more time and his heart just couldn’t take it, anymore. He had wanted to be famous; he had wanted to show his girlfriend how he felt. That last hand killed Clutch, but his soul wasn’t ready to fold and cash out his chips.
One year later, Telly, a down-on-his-luck guy with a dream to become the top poker player just doesn’t have what it takes, but the love of his wife, her undying support and his desire to give her all she deserves is a gnawing pain in his gut. Enter Clutch, well, his ghost, his talent and his guidance, but will he convince Telly he needs the help if he wants to win? How will his interference affect thise he loves or loved? Will helping Telly be just as powerfully gratifying as winning for himself, or will Clutch learn there is more to life than winning all the pots in Vegas?
Once again, with Pokergeist, Michael Phillip Cash takes to a world filled with quirky characters, humor and some heartfelt realizations that sneak in some of life’s best little lessons. Mr. Philips never fails to build a world where the sights, sounds and even smells of each scene jump of the pages. Follow these two characters as they blur the lines between reality and nail-biting fun. They say every player has a ritual, a tell and their own special talents that help them on their journey, will Telly find a wealth of information from Clutch or will he teach him about having fun, one card at a time?
I received this copy from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 6, 2015
Publisher: Red Feather Publishing
ISBN: 1512074969
Genre: Supernatural Fantasy
Print Length: 265 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
One year later, Telly, a down-on-his-luck guy with a dream to become the top poker player just doesn’t have what it takes, but the love of his wife, her undying support and his desire to give her all she deserves is a gnawing pain in his gut. Enter Clutch, well, his ghost, his talent and his guidance, but will he convince Telly he needs the help if he wants to win? How will his interference affect thise he loves or loved? Will helping Telly be just as powerfully gratifying as winning for himself, or will Clutch learn there is more to life than winning all the pots in Vegas?
Once again, with Pokergeist, Michael Phillip Cash takes to a world filled with quirky characters, humor and some heartfelt realizations that sneak in some of life’s best little lessons. Mr. Philips never fails to build a world where the sights, sounds and even smells of each scene jump of the pages. Follow these two characters as they blur the lines between reality and nail-biting fun. They say every player has a ritual, a tell and their own special talents that help them on their journey, will Telly find a wealth of information from Clutch or will he teach him about having fun, one card at a time?
I received this copy from Michael Phillip Cash in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 6, 2015
Publisher: Red Feather Publishing
ISBN: 1512074969
Genre: Supernatural Fantasy
Print Length: 265 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 6, 2015
The Las Vegas Strip is my "go-to" vacation spot. My husband and I try and take a mini-vacation there every year, just to reconnect. We love our kids, but sometimes even Mom and Dad need a break! There is always something to do on the strip. Neither my husband or I are gamblers, but we are never at a loss for things to do when we are there. From all you can eat buffets to awesome shows, there is certainly something for everyone there! Why am I telling you about my favourite vacation spot? Because of the most recent book I read called "Pokergeist".
"Pokergeist" by Michael Phillip Cash is the story of Telly Martin a terrible gambler trying to make his way as a professional poker player in the casino's of Las Vegas. Try as he might, he just can't catch a good break...that is until Clutch Henderson takes him under his wing and helps him navigate the poker table. The only catch...Clutch is a ghost. As relationships are built and broken the two begin their quest to win the International Poker Championship. Can Telly and Clutch find the peace and redemption they need in this life and the next?
Michael Phillip Cash has a writing style all his own. While "Pokergeist" is set on the gambling scene in Vegas, you don't have to be a gambler to enjoy the story. I know nothing of Poker and yet was pulled into the story from the get go. The book did arrive with a content warning for strong language and is not intended for the Young Adult audience.
"Pokergeist" will transport you to the Vegas. You get to experience the quirky characters you will meet on the strip, from the drunkards to the serious gamblers. Mr. Cash sets the scene so well, it feels like you are back in Vegas. I loved how I have been to many of the locations he describes.
There is one paragraph in the book that really stood out to me:
"No such thing. Nature changes, rivers and mountains change.
What makes us think we have to stay the same?
If everyone is telling you that you can't dance,
you can either sit down or learn a new dance."
What a great reminder for all of us. Things don't have to stay the same...if we are frustrated with our children or even our lives, things don't have to stay the same. Sometimes we feel safe and just accept things status quo, simply because it's the easy thing to do. Sometimes we need to learn a new dance...change things up a bit and put yourself out there!
"Pokergeist" is so much more than "just another story" for me. It has a little bit of everything, mystery, romance and the paranormal, but more than that it transported me to my favourite vacation spot and reminded me of some little truths that I often forget.
*Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review. All opinions are 100% my own.
"Pokergeist" by Michael Phillip Cash is the story of Telly Martin a terrible gambler trying to make his way as a professional poker player in the casino's of Las Vegas. Try as he might, he just can't catch a good break...that is until Clutch Henderson takes him under his wing and helps him navigate the poker table. The only catch...Clutch is a ghost. As relationships are built and broken the two begin their quest to win the International Poker Championship. Can Telly and Clutch find the peace and redemption they need in this life and the next?
Michael Phillip Cash has a writing style all his own. While "Pokergeist" is set on the gambling scene in Vegas, you don't have to be a gambler to enjoy the story. I know nothing of Poker and yet was pulled into the story from the get go. The book did arrive with a content warning for strong language and is not intended for the Young Adult audience.
"Pokergeist" will transport you to the Vegas. You get to experience the quirky characters you will meet on the strip, from the drunkards to the serious gamblers. Mr. Cash sets the scene so well, it feels like you are back in Vegas. I loved how I have been to many of the locations he describes.
There is one paragraph in the book that really stood out to me:
"No such thing. Nature changes, rivers and mountains change.
What makes us think we have to stay the same?
If everyone is telling you that you can't dance,
you can either sit down or learn a new dance."
What a great reminder for all of us. Things don't have to stay the same...if we are frustrated with our children or even our lives, things don't have to stay the same. Sometimes we feel safe and just accept things status quo, simply because it's the easy thing to do. Sometimes we need to learn a new dance...change things up a bit and put yourself out there!
"Pokergeist" is so much more than "just another story" for me. It has a little bit of everything, mystery, romance and the paranormal, but more than that it transported me to my favourite vacation spot and reminded me of some little truths that I often forget.
*Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my review. All opinions are 100% my own.
August 17, 2015
About the Book:
Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost.
Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.
My Review:
There is one thing guaranteed in this life and death is it. Telly Martin finds that out real quick when he become the protege of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. Clutch isn't living anymore, really he is actually a ghost. Follow the author as he takes you on this unexpected ride.
Michael Phillip Cash is a very creative author that writes very humorously. I enjoy reading his material. He can pull you in and really get you interested in the book he is writing. I didn't think I would like this one too much because poker doesn't really appeal to me but I was amazed to find Pokergeist just as entertaining as his previous writings.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost.
Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.
My Review:
There is one thing guaranteed in this life and death is it. Telly Martin finds that out real quick when he become the protege of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. Clutch isn't living anymore, really he is actually a ghost. Follow the author as he takes you on this unexpected ride.
Michael Phillip Cash is a very creative author that writes very humorously. I enjoy reading his material. He can pull you in and really get you interested in the book he is writing. I didn't think I would like this one too much because poker doesn't really appeal to me but I was amazed to find Pokergeist just as entertaining as his previous writings.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
July 23, 2015
This review was originally on Sara's Books and Things.
A really quick, easy read with bonus points if you like poker. The prologue tells of Clutch's last's game alive, then the first chapter introduces you to Telly. After that the book moves quickly, developing a partnership and straining other relationships.
This book switches prospective between Telly, Clutch, and a few assorted people in there lives. From the assorted my favorite was Telly's fiancee Gretchen. She's sweet and lovable, but is in a bad position at work.
Of the two main characters I preferred Telly. He's the nice guy that just wants to do what's best for everyone. Clutch on the other hand is well... a narcissist, he cares more for himself and the game than anyone else.
All in all a good book that I'd be happy to recommend.
I received this book compliments of NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
A really quick, easy read with bonus points if you like poker. The prologue tells of Clutch's last's game alive, then the first chapter introduces you to Telly. After that the book moves quickly, developing a partnership and straining other relationships.
This book switches prospective between Telly, Clutch, and a few assorted people in there lives. From the assorted my favorite was Telly's fiancee Gretchen. She's sweet and lovable, but is in a bad position at work.
Of the two main characters I preferred Telly. He's the nice guy that just wants to do what's best for everyone. Clutch on the other hand is well... a narcissist, he cares more for himself and the game than anyone else.
All in all a good book that I'd be happy to recommend.
I received this book compliments of NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.
December 15, 2015
This was pretty much exactly as silly and mindlessly entertaining as one would expect from the name and the cover. I suppose for poker fans this might hold more appeal, otherwise it's a sort of inoffensively bland to cutesy tale (including an all too adorable ending) of a gambling oriented haunting. In general I prefer more charismatic, intelligent and/or interesting characters too. If this was a movie, you wouldn't find it in cinemas, but might be something you'd click on at random on Netflix. If this was food, it'd be a quick and not particularly nutritious snack. This is my second read by the author and so far the going impression is that of someone who comes up with original ideas, but never goes above average with the writing itself. Perfectly decent, but nothing great. It's an easy and quick read though.
September 25, 2015
If you love Vegas, poker, and the supernatural, you will love Pokergeist. There are characters you will love, hate, and wish the best for. Cash always shows many sides of life, the good and bad, the happy and sad, the wishful and hopeful.
July 11, 2017
An interesting take on the paranormal, and an interesting take on Vegas. Tully's been on the losing end of life for a while now. Clutch has been on the losing side of death for longer. it will take them both to solve their problems. I found the descriptions of the games as entertaining as the book itself.
September 17, 2015
There is a lot of suspense and remarkably a lot of spiritually encounters with those that have gone on but don’t want to move on, or go into the light, in this uniquely altered tale by Michael Phillip Cash. POKERGEIST is about an apparition by the name of Clutch Henderson that is a poker connoisseur per say, and he wanted or needed Telly’s help. And, the only way he knew was to become visible before Telly. But when he did he just about caused poor Telly to jump out of his skin. Telly couldn’t believe what was happening to him. He seemed to think that he might be hallucinating, or something. One of my favorite parts in the book is, the first time Telly saw Clutch. I pictured him as he closed his eyes and screamed as loud as he could. I saw his mouth as a gaping black hole. I also heard what sounded like a rusty wind instrument as the air squeezed out of his lungs, and actually pictured Clutch covering Telly’s mouth with his ghostly, icy-cold,
white hand to try and quiet him. To me, that showed the artistic skills of the author, to be able to show such actions, through words, to the reader. All of the characters in this wonderful story seemed so real to me. I loved all of them, especially Telly, Gretchen, and ill-tempered old Clutch.
Clutch is one of those boisterous kind of ghosts. The kind that pick and choose whomever they want to appear before, or why he was sent back. No one can see Clutch but Telly, and Telly didn’t want anything to do with Clutch and tried to tell him to go away, and that he didn’t want to risk what he had in order to try and win at poker. Clutch didn’t believe Telly and started to hang around him all the time. Then, right after Telly told his wife Gretchen about Clutch, she didn’t believe him.
Suddenly that’s when the plot thickened and Telly kept getting more angry at Clutch, and nobody wanted to believe anything Telly said after that; because Clutch made Telly’s life so uncomfortable, that finally, Telly gave in and agreed to go with Clutch and play in the International Series of Poker. But can Telly truly trust Clutch? Was Clutch wanting this poker series to please himself, or was he sent back to Earth to help Telly? Clutch already had his chance to win big, but will he get a second chance? How will he do it? Does Telly, the fellow with the worse luck possible, have a chance to win big at poker? This book will grab you and not let go until the end. Great read.
white hand to try and quiet him. To me, that showed the artistic skills of the author, to be able to show such actions, through words, to the reader. All of the characters in this wonderful story seemed so real to me. I loved all of them, especially Telly, Gretchen, and ill-tempered old Clutch.
Clutch is one of those boisterous kind of ghosts. The kind that pick and choose whomever they want to appear before, or why he was sent back. No one can see Clutch but Telly, and Telly didn’t want anything to do with Clutch and tried to tell him to go away, and that he didn’t want to risk what he had in order to try and win at poker. Clutch didn’t believe Telly and started to hang around him all the time. Then, right after Telly told his wife Gretchen about Clutch, she didn’t believe him.
Suddenly that’s when the plot thickened and Telly kept getting more angry at Clutch, and nobody wanted to believe anything Telly said after that; because Clutch made Telly’s life so uncomfortable, that finally, Telly gave in and agreed to go with Clutch and play in the International Series of Poker. But can Telly truly trust Clutch? Was Clutch wanting this poker series to please himself, or was he sent back to Earth to help Telly? Clutch already had his chance to win big, but will he get a second chance? How will he do it? Does Telly, the fellow with the worse luck possible, have a chance to win big at poker? This book will grab you and not let go until the end. Great read.
August 30, 2015
Pokergeist is a ghost story about life and death, second chances, an arrogant ghost and poker.
Clutch Henderson was considered to be one of the world’s best poker’s players and has a lifetime winnings of over $50 million but has never won the one prize he desires, the gold bracelet from the International Series of Poker Tournament. And he dies in the final game of the tournament!
Telly Martin is unemployed and decides to live a dream by playing poker for a living, the only problem being he loses more than he wins.
When Telly and the ghostly Clutch come together their mission is to win the tournament, Clutch getting his bracelet and Telly millions in cash. To do this they must learn trust in each other, overcome personal problems and ultimately both find redemption to continue with the life and death!
Overall this is another fantastic story by Michael Phillip Cash, the more I read by him the better the stories get and the quality of writing is improving all the time. Cash clearly has a passion for writing and it comes through in his novels.
While this is a ghost story involving the world of professional gambling you do not need to know anything of poker to enjoy the story.
The story flows extremely well, has loveable characters as well as the unlikeable and all have their own little quirks that add interest to the story. It has humour, despair, gambling, ghosts and a surprise twist in a predictable ending.
While a ghost story it also focuses on the human aspects of gambling and its effects on others. While effectively a tale about a poker tournament don’t let this put you off, this is a small part of the story. The story is fast moving and a bit edgier than Michael’s other novels with the use of language and looking into the seedier side of Vegas and gambling and is extremely enjoyable.
Whether you have or have not read any of Michael’s books before you will not be disappointed with Pokergeist. Michael Phillip Cash I believe is an author that has a lot more to come and will be very successful.
Clutch Henderson was considered to be one of the world’s best poker’s players and has a lifetime winnings of over $50 million but has never won the one prize he desires, the gold bracelet from the International Series of Poker Tournament. And he dies in the final game of the tournament!
Telly Martin is unemployed and decides to live a dream by playing poker for a living, the only problem being he loses more than he wins.
When Telly and the ghostly Clutch come together their mission is to win the tournament, Clutch getting his bracelet and Telly millions in cash. To do this they must learn trust in each other, overcome personal problems and ultimately both find redemption to continue with the life and death!
Overall this is another fantastic story by Michael Phillip Cash, the more I read by him the better the stories get and the quality of writing is improving all the time. Cash clearly has a passion for writing and it comes through in his novels.
While this is a ghost story involving the world of professional gambling you do not need to know anything of poker to enjoy the story.
The story flows extremely well, has loveable characters as well as the unlikeable and all have their own little quirks that add interest to the story. It has humour, despair, gambling, ghosts and a surprise twist in a predictable ending.
While a ghost story it also focuses on the human aspects of gambling and its effects on others. While effectively a tale about a poker tournament don’t let this put you off, this is a small part of the story. The story is fast moving and a bit edgier than Michael’s other novels with the use of language and looking into the seedier side of Vegas and gambling and is extremely enjoyable.
Whether you have or have not read any of Michael’s books before you will not be disappointed with Pokergeist. Michael Phillip Cash I believe is an author that has a lot more to come and will be very successful.
August 26, 2015
Having been a fan of Michael's work over the past year I was excited to once again get to read another of his books. In Pokergeist Michael takes us on a journey into the high stakes poker world . Where you can be on top one moment and down on the luck in the next. The characters are different and easy to love, plus we get visited by characters from his other books. Georgia the physic is back for us in this book. She is funny and unique kind of a lady that I have fallen in love with. Clutch is your everyday guy that has taken advantage of everyone in his life and hasn't really thought of what he is doing to those in his life.You kind of want to smack him a few times and he is a pain in Telly's backside. But like all Michaels characters you will come to love him and will be cheering for him all the way trough the book.
But that said Clutch isn't the main character Telly is. Telly is a down-on-his-luck guy with a dream to become the top poker player, he just doesn’t have what it takes, but the love of his dear wife, her undying support and his desire to give her all she truly deserves is a gnawing pain in his gut. In comes Clutch, well, more like his ghost, with his talent and his guidance. But can he convince Telly that he needs his help and will helping Tely win be as gratifying as winning for himself? and for that matter will Clutch learn there is more to life than winning?
As usual Michael kept me captivated from first page to last. With his unique blend of quirky characters, life lessons and the ability to draw me into the story and the world he creates I find myself lost fro hours in what he writes. If you haven't had the chance to read a book by Michael Phillip Cash you are missing out on a wonderful read. I high recommend you getting this book or any other by Michael and let his words sweep you away into a grand adventure.
But that said Clutch isn't the main character Telly is. Telly is a down-on-his-luck guy with a dream to become the top poker player, he just doesn’t have what it takes, but the love of his dear wife, her undying support and his desire to give her all she truly deserves is a gnawing pain in his gut. In comes Clutch, well, more like his ghost, with his talent and his guidance. But can he convince Telly that he needs his help and will helping Tely win be as gratifying as winning for himself? and for that matter will Clutch learn there is more to life than winning?
As usual Michael kept me captivated from first page to last. With his unique blend of quirky characters, life lessons and the ability to draw me into the story and the world he creates I find myself lost fro hours in what he writes. If you haven't had the chance to read a book by Michael Phillip Cash you are missing out on a wonderful read. I high recommend you getting this book or any other by Michael and let his words sweep you away into a grand adventure.
September 2, 2015
When I started reading this new book by Michael Phillip Cash, I was not going to be what I Certain thrilled with it. However, de author did not disappoint.
This time he had two main characters. His first, Clutch, Is One That was gritty, unruly, and just plain rude. He is a professional poker player and lives in the seedier part of Las Vegas. When he and this subsequently Becomes A Ghost (this is Noted in the summary), he Becomes a destructive force in death as he what in life.
On the otherhand, pardon the pun, there is Telly. He is a hapless but extremely kind, down on his luck, man. Who's real passion is not poker but the love of his life
I seriously loved Telly. I wanted him to be the big winner everytime but in the same sense I appreciated his honesty. More importantly, I appreciated That he loved his fiance and wanted nothing than to make her happy even if He Was not happy himself.
At the sametime, I loathed Clutch, but I found it interesting, indeed He has a soft side too but of course I can not reveal that.
It is through the meshing of the two did professional poker playing and Las Vegas Life is interesting.
I enjoyed the factthat Michael Phillip Cash Brought back a couple of old favorite minor characters in this book. As this is now his eleventh book it makes it fun Because now They are almost treasure hunt to find material in each of his books.
I also enjoyed getting a peek into the not-so-nice part of Vegas did maybe people who visit there are not aware of or maybe just pretend it is not there. In any case, all of this is why many flock to Las Vegas. Poker is big business No Doubt!
Michael Phillip Cash has managed once again to make a winner of a book. 5 chips for this book!
Disclosure: I purchase a copy of this book for my own collections. The views here are 100% Expressed my own and may differentiate from yours. ~ Naila Moon
This time he had two main characters. His first, Clutch, Is One That was gritty, unruly, and just plain rude. He is a professional poker player and lives in the seedier part of Las Vegas. When he and this subsequently Becomes A Ghost (this is Noted in the summary), he Becomes a destructive force in death as he what in life.
On the otherhand, pardon the pun, there is Telly. He is a hapless but extremely kind, down on his luck, man. Who's real passion is not poker but the love of his life
I seriously loved Telly. I wanted him to be the big winner everytime but in the same sense I appreciated his honesty. More importantly, I appreciated That he loved his fiance and wanted nothing than to make her happy even if He Was not happy himself.
At the sametime, I loathed Clutch, but I found it interesting, indeed He has a soft side too but of course I can not reveal that.
It is through the meshing of the two did professional poker playing and Las Vegas Life is interesting.
I enjoyed the factthat Michael Phillip Cash Brought back a couple of old favorite minor characters in this book. As this is now his eleventh book it makes it fun Because now They are almost treasure hunt to find material in each of his books.
I also enjoyed getting a peek into the not-so-nice part of Vegas did maybe people who visit there are not aware of or maybe just pretend it is not there. In any case, all of this is why many flock to Las Vegas. Poker is big business No Doubt!
Michael Phillip Cash has managed once again to make a winner of a book. 5 chips for this book!
Disclosure: I purchase a copy of this book for my own collections. The views here are 100% Expressed my own and may differentiate from yours. ~ Naila Moon
September 3, 2015
Pokergiest by Michael Phillip Cash is story of a man who is down and out and gets help from the ghost of a poker legend. A story of life with unfinished business and a life trying to get back on its feet in the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Telly Martin is a former IT consultant who lost his job when the economy turned sour. He and his girlfriend, Gretchen, are living a hotel while they both get back on their feet. Telly is trying to make enough money by playing poker. The problem is he isn’t very good. Until he is visited by the ghost of Clutch Henderson, a poker legend who died the year before after losing in an international poker tournament. Near his breaking point and despite his doubts, Telly reluctantly agrees to ty poker one more time. With Clutch’s help, Telly is able to earn enough money to enter in the International Series of Poker (Cash’s version of the World Series of Poker which is held in Las Vegas every year). Will Telly be able to win? Will anyone believe that he sees the ghost of a poker legend?
I enjoyed Pokergeist as I have enjoyed other Michael Phillip Cash’s books. When I received the book, it came with a parental advisory note. It stated that the book is intended for mature audience because it includes strong language. I was shocked. I have never read a book before which came with an advisory. Keeping this in mind, I read the book and I didn’t see anything which would require an advisory. There was some strong audience but nothing I haven’t heard on TV. I really enjoyed the relationship between Telly and Gretchen. I also enjoyed the scenes at the poker tables. Mr. Cash really captures the tension and psychological mind games which occurs during poker games. I recommend Pokergeist to anyone who enjoys a good ghost story and the game of poker.
Telly Martin is a former IT consultant who lost his job when the economy turned sour. He and his girlfriend, Gretchen, are living a hotel while they both get back on their feet. Telly is trying to make enough money by playing poker. The problem is he isn’t very good. Until he is visited by the ghost of Clutch Henderson, a poker legend who died the year before after losing in an international poker tournament. Near his breaking point and despite his doubts, Telly reluctantly agrees to ty poker one more time. With Clutch’s help, Telly is able to earn enough money to enter in the International Series of Poker (Cash’s version of the World Series of Poker which is held in Las Vegas every year). Will Telly be able to win? Will anyone believe that he sees the ghost of a poker legend?
I enjoyed Pokergeist as I have enjoyed other Michael Phillip Cash’s books. When I received the book, it came with a parental advisory note. It stated that the book is intended for mature audience because it includes strong language. I was shocked. I have never read a book before which came with an advisory. Keeping this in mind, I read the book and I didn’t see anything which would require an advisory. There was some strong audience but nothing I haven’t heard on TV. I really enjoyed the relationship between Telly and Gretchen. I also enjoyed the scenes at the poker tables. Mr. Cash really captures the tension and psychological mind games which occurs during poker games. I recommend Pokergeist to anyone who enjoys a good ghost story and the game of poker.
September 7, 2015
I have to admit that at first, I wasn't quite sure that I would be able to easily "get into" this book. I mean...the world of poker isn't usually something that would hold my interest. But, I was pleasantly surprised! Once again..like with many other books by Michael...the characters made this story. His characters are always well-developed and likable. Even when they may not be likable at first. This one is a ghost story but so much more! The new characters introduced in the story are different and quite likable. I love that there are also old characters that make a reappearance in the story. I really didn't care much for the character of Clutch..at first. He seems all about himself and quite selfish and really not the easiest to like and when he dies...I didn't exactly feel sad. But, clutch really isn't the main character. Telly is and Telly is quite likable. Telly is smart but doesn't seem to apply himself well quite as much as he should but then he has a dream of being a poker-player. Yet, he also doesn't want to lose what (or I should say who) is most important to him..which is his wife. Clutch wants to help Telly become the very best poker player but not exactly for the best of reasons...more for his own selfish reasons. I actually finished reading this book in one night because I couldn't put it down! As, with most books by Michael..there are twists and lessons to be learned. The most important lesson of all changes Clutch the unlikable character into a likable one. This is a Must-Read and can't wait for the next one by this Author!
September 29, 2015
This is the story of Telly Martin and his huge want to be a professional poker player. He ends up being instructed invisibly, by the ghost of the poker champion Clutch Henderson. He went to his death really wanting to win the winning bracelet and all of the prestige and money that goes with it. Telly hs a very understanding lady friend who tells him he can take a small amount of money and for a week he can play poker at the casino. She figures he'll either win big or come home broke and ready to take the job driving taxi. I do really believe in ghosts and they do make themselves known when they wish to. I have never known one who talked to anyone. But that is fiction and fiction stories do some stretching of the truth or reality. I really enjoyed this book and I'm not a big fan of poker championships, you don't have to be in order to entertained by this book. He writes books that are really great and each one so different than the last. I love books by this author!
From Good Reads: Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost.
Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.
From Good Reads: Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch…Clutch is a ghost.
Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.
September 25, 2015
Pokergeist is the fourth novel by as-yet-to-be-discovered author Michael Phillip Cash that I’ve read, and I think this one is his best yet.
The story opens in Las Vegas. Poker legend Clutch Henderson comes from a poker legend family; his grandfather was a champion player. He taught Clutch how to play the game.
Clutch is good. After all, this is his nineteenth attempt to win the million-dollar gold bracelet in the International Series of Poker. His opponent is an Internet poker sensation, Adam “The Ant” Antonowski. It’s the final hand; Clutch can practically feel the bracelet’s weight on his wrist. Everything he ever dreamed of is just a card away. Suddenly, Clutch can’t breathe. There is a heaviness in his chest. Words fail him. He falls to the floor.
One year later, Telly Martin has lost everything. It started with a layoff and spiraled down from there. Now he and his girlfriend Gretchen are living in a seedy hotel, barely able to eat and make the rent.
Telly also has dreams of winning the International Series of Poker. He’s a pretty good player, but with luck he could go all the way. All he needs now is the ten thousand dollar buy-in fee. Yeah, right, like he has that kind of money lying around.
Then Clutch shows up in ghost form to act as Telly’s mentor.
There are no real surprises in this plot line. Still, it’s well done and interesting reading. It’s a lot of fun too.
The story opens in Las Vegas. Poker legend Clutch Henderson comes from a poker legend family; his grandfather was a champion player. He taught Clutch how to play the game.
Clutch is good. After all, this is his nineteenth attempt to win the million-dollar gold bracelet in the International Series of Poker. His opponent is an Internet poker sensation, Adam “The Ant” Antonowski. It’s the final hand; Clutch can practically feel the bracelet’s weight on his wrist. Everything he ever dreamed of is just a card away. Suddenly, Clutch can’t breathe. There is a heaviness in his chest. Words fail him. He falls to the floor.
One year later, Telly Martin has lost everything. It started with a layoff and spiraled down from there. Now he and his girlfriend Gretchen are living in a seedy hotel, barely able to eat and make the rent.
Telly also has dreams of winning the International Series of Poker. He’s a pretty good player, but with luck he could go all the way. All he needs now is the ten thousand dollar buy-in fee. Yeah, right, like he has that kind of money lying around.
Then Clutch shows up in ghost form to act as Telly’s mentor.
There are no real surprises in this plot line. Still, it’s well done and interesting reading. It’s a lot of fun too.
September 11, 2015
Remember when you were younger and you read about opening a bottle and the “genie “ magically appeared and was able to grant your special wishes?. This story reminded me of that same kind of special chance that a person is given again.
Telly Martin is a wonderful and caring man who is down on his luck after losing his job. He wants to be a professional poker player so that he can prove to himself and others that he can accomplish his dreams. His wife allows him to pursue it for a while but he is not winning and she reminds him that they have expenses to pay and they cannot live off this dream.
Clutch Henderson is a professional gambler who almost won the World Series Poker Championship but losses it to a young unknown player.
Clutch cannot give up his dream and the bracelet he so wanted to win like his grandfather did. He meets up with Telly and convinces him to let him help him win the Championship and make both of their wishes come true.
The story will let the reader see how sometimes second chances are possible but like everything else in life they come with a price. Fast paced and easy read.
Telly Martin is a wonderful and caring man who is down on his luck after losing his job. He wants to be a professional poker player so that he can prove to himself and others that he can accomplish his dreams. His wife allows him to pursue it for a while but he is not winning and she reminds him that they have expenses to pay and they cannot live off this dream.
Clutch Henderson is a professional gambler who almost won the World Series Poker Championship but losses it to a young unknown player.
Clutch cannot give up his dream and the bracelet he so wanted to win like his grandfather did. He meets up with Telly and convinces him to let him help him win the Championship and make both of their wishes come true.
The story will let the reader see how sometimes second chances are possible but like everything else in life they come with a price. Fast paced and easy read.
September 9, 2015
Telly is down on his luck after losing his job due to a take over. His long time girlfriend urges him to go for his dream and become a professional poker player. But no one told him how hard it would be to play in the big leagues. With nothing but a penny left he makes a wish that his luck will finally change, little did he know a ghost would come by and make his life a whole lot more crazy but could it finally change his luck?
Telly is a sweet guy who just wants enjoyment and easiness in his life. He's willing to work hard, but sometimes life is against him.
Clutch is our wiley ghost and quite the troublemaker when he wants to be. His whole life he has had his eyes set on one prize and a little thing like his death isn't gonna stop him from getting what he is after. But through it all can he find new meaning to the life he left behind?
These two are push/pull and a whole lot of funny. The antics between them might frustrate them at times but I loved seeing how it all played out for them in the end.
Telly is a sweet guy who just wants enjoyment and easiness in his life. He's willing to work hard, but sometimes life is against him.
Clutch is our wiley ghost and quite the troublemaker when he wants to be. His whole life he has had his eyes set on one prize and a little thing like his death isn't gonna stop him from getting what he is after. But through it all can he find new meaning to the life he left behind?
These two are push/pull and a whole lot of funny. The antics between them might frustrate them at times but I loved seeing how it all played out for them in the end.
October 2, 2015
Michael Phillip Cash has written another great book! All of his books include paranormal activity and this one is no different. Telly lost his computer job and decides to follow his dream of being a poker player. He's not very good and has promised his fiance that he will quit. Then he runs into the ghost of Clutch Henderson, one of the greatest poker players, and the adventure begins. Clutch has never won the International Series of Poker tournament and thinks that he can win by coaching Telly and helping him win. This book is filled with humor and a few life lessons. Thank you to Michael Phillip Cash for sending me a copy to review!
May 22, 2017
I loved the play on words of the title !!!
The theme of the story was light hearted (mostly) but it also had some really good view points how to treat people as you'd like to be treated!
The theme of the story was light hearted (mostly) but it also had some really good view points how to treat people as you'd like to be treated!
July 27, 2015
`You've read at least one of my books. Believe me, you know me pretty well.'
New York author Michael Phillip Cash has a rich imagination, a gift that comes from being grounded and secure with life as being lived. That he is able from that strong stance to create stories embellishes his evident gifts as a writer. In his debut novel BROOD X and in STILLWELL he was able to create a terrifying tales out of things seen or magnify things seen to become ghastly distortions of credible possibilities. In THE HANGING TREE, he took a step further in the arena of ghosts, and if the reader wants current thought on the subject, the following is an encyclopedic comment: `Ghosts have been a popular subject for millennia, appearing in countless stories, from "Macbeth" to the Bible, and even spawning their own folklore genre: ghost stories. Ghosts are perhaps the most common paranormal belief in the world. Part of the reason is that belief in ghosts is part of a larger web of related paranormal beliefs, including near-death experience, life after death, and spirit communication. The idea that the dead remain with us in spirit is an ancient one, and one that offers many people comfort: who doesn't want to believe that our beloved but deceased family members aren't looking out for us, or with us in our times of need? Most people believe in ghosts because of personal experience; they have seen or sensed some unexplained presence.' Cash left this world of ghosts for another diversion - his Trilogy THE DARRACIA SAGA - in which he created a sci-fi exploration that for this reader, who has read all of his novels, is a less successful series. Gratefully he returned to a territory he owns - supernatural ghost stories like his THE FLIP. THE AFTER HOUSE carried the aroma of Melville, Conrad, and other writers who have made the sea a principal character. Then he moved his tent into another realm - the arena of witches. And out came WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM and yet another leap of faith in to historical fiction - and in selecting this title he plays with words in a way that produces a chuckle.
And if you are a died in the wool Michael Phillip Cash fan you'll go with him any where - and here he brings us another realm of quasi paranormal stories about ghosts: from the title you know he has maintained his keen sense of humor. This 10th novel - POKERGEIST - does not demand that you know boo bots about poker (this reader doesn't but that certainly didn't diminish the pleasure of Michael's outing this time). It is just a solid little story full of some terrific twists and turns that keep you glued to the book for an evening's read.
The synopsis: `Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch...Clutch is a ghost. Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.'
If you're just discovering Michael Phillip Cash, welcome aboard - you will love his writing and his mind. If you are a hardcore fan, this book will in no way disappoint - and you may even learn about poker!
New York author Michael Phillip Cash has a rich imagination, a gift that comes from being grounded and secure with life as being lived. That he is able from that strong stance to create stories embellishes his evident gifts as a writer. In his debut novel BROOD X and in STILLWELL he was able to create a terrifying tales out of things seen or magnify things seen to become ghastly distortions of credible possibilities. In THE HANGING TREE, he took a step further in the arena of ghosts, and if the reader wants current thought on the subject, the following is an encyclopedic comment: `Ghosts have been a popular subject for millennia, appearing in countless stories, from "Macbeth" to the Bible, and even spawning their own folklore genre: ghost stories. Ghosts are perhaps the most common paranormal belief in the world. Part of the reason is that belief in ghosts is part of a larger web of related paranormal beliefs, including near-death experience, life after death, and spirit communication. The idea that the dead remain with us in spirit is an ancient one, and one that offers many people comfort: who doesn't want to believe that our beloved but deceased family members aren't looking out for us, or with us in our times of need? Most people believe in ghosts because of personal experience; they have seen or sensed some unexplained presence.' Cash left this world of ghosts for another diversion - his Trilogy THE DARRACIA SAGA - in which he created a sci-fi exploration that for this reader, who has read all of his novels, is a less successful series. Gratefully he returned to a territory he owns - supernatural ghost stories like his THE FLIP. THE AFTER HOUSE carried the aroma of Melville, Conrad, and other writers who have made the sea a principal character. Then he moved his tent into another realm - the arena of witches. And out came WITCHES PROTECTION PROGRAM and yet another leap of faith in to historical fiction - and in selecting this title he plays with words in a way that produces a chuckle.
And if you are a died in the wool Michael Phillip Cash fan you'll go with him any where - and here he brings us another realm of quasi paranormal stories about ghosts: from the title you know he has maintained his keen sense of humor. This 10th novel - POKERGEIST - does not demand that you know boo bots about poker (this reader doesn't but that certainly didn't diminish the pleasure of Michael's outing this time). It is just a solid little story full of some terrific twists and turns that keep you glued to the book for an evening's read.
The synopsis: `Sometimes life, as well as death, is about second chances. Luckless Telly Martin doesn't have a clue. An awful gambler trying to scrape by as a professional poker player, he becomes the protégé of world famous poker champion Clutch Henderson. The only catch...Clutch is a ghost. Telly and Clutch must navigate the seedy gambling underbelly of Las Vegas learning to trust each other in order to win the elusive International Series of Poker, repair their shattered personal relationships and find redemption in this life and the hereafter.'
If you're just discovering Michael Phillip Cash, welcome aboard - you will love his writing and his mind. If you are a hardcore fan, this book will in no way disappoint - and you may even learn about poker!
December 24, 2019
Sometimes what's lurking in the shadows goes unnoticed until it jumps right out and presents itself. In this case it a second chance, but can the protagonist move forward and really take advantage of the opportunity? Nicely done and fun to read.
August 15, 2015
Pokergiest is the best of both worlds . We have a ghost story but also as a story of redemption and true love. Welcome to the world poker championship where we meet Clutch Henderson. A poker champ that has chased the gold bracelet most of his life. Before he has a chance he dies and is hanging around as a ghost . He is so absorbed in his own life he can't pass on. Until the day he meets Telly Martin an unemployed computer geek , who has lost his job and is hopeless at poker . Now together they just might redeem themselves in the eyes of the ones that love them.
The author takes us on a journey into the high stakes poker world . Where you can be on top one moment and down on the luck the next. The characters are quirky and lovable and some characters from his other books make an appearance in this book. Which I loved to see, they are all so part of his books. Georgia the physic is back in this book. She is a quirky lady that I have fallen in love with. Clutch is your everyday guy that has taken advantage of the people in his life and hasn't really thought of what he is doing to them . You kind of wanted to slap him a few times and boy he was a pain in poor Telly's butt. But like all Michaels characters you will love him and will be cheering for him all the way trough the book. But really Clutch isn't the main character in the book Telly is . Tell is a unlucky guy in love with his soul mate and wants to make it for her. She lets him live his dream . He is the guy next door that is lovable and does have some faults but over all is a loving guy . Who wants to live the dream. There is a cast of supporting characters that are all connected in a way. They are all connected from the past and the present. As you read the story you will understand .
This was a fast read for me, I got caught up in the story . If fascinated me how the author used poker in the story line . You are transported to the fast paced poker world . Where fortunes are won and lost in a blink of an eye . The story moves at pretty quick pace and a lot happens in those pages . The cab scene had me giggling. There are some really fun scenes and some very poignant scenes that will actually make you tear up. You will feel for the characters that are left behind . You will also want to slap a couple also. The ending will get you , I couldn't believe it, it was a great way to end it. I loved this book , so if you want a good ghost story with redemption combined . This is the book for you check our POKERGIEST , you will enjoy it.
October 19, 2015
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
So... when this book arrived and I read the blurb, I didn't think it was the kind of book that would have piqued my interest if I saw it in a book shop. Although it's a paranormal, I have virtually no interest in poker... and I assumed that most of the book would be about the game of poker; which actually was the case, but I felt the book had a lot more to it than that.
I thought that both Telly and Clutch were interesting characters, though I did like Telly a lot more than Clutch for a lot of the book. I found it really interesting to see how Telly was trying to deal with his financial problems. I felt a lot of sympathy for Gretchen, since I was able to see how affected she was by what was happening with Telly. Even though it wasn't his fault, I could see where Gretchen was coming from.
Although Clutch's character had grown on me by the end of the book, I didn't really like him very much during it. I thought that, even though he had his moments of empathy, he only cared about himself. I did have a lot of sympathy for Ginny and I thought the fact that she cared about Clutch and his daughter was obvious, even though Ruby wasn't actually related to her. I really disliked Jenny. I was glad to see that she didn't have things go completely right for her by the end of the book.
I got quite confused about Stan's character. I mistook him for another character who'd shown up, but I liked seeing him interacting with Telly and although I didn't know exactly why he was feeling so depressed at one point, it was nice to see that Telly was able to reason with him and that Stan was able to help him out. I also liked seeing Big Daddy and Cheryl. It was good to see that Telly did have friends around him and I thought the fact that he was one of the good guys came across really well. He seemed to have a really kind heart and he was someone who was really easy to relate to.
There was a lot about this book that felt really good to read. It drew me into the storyline really easily and Telly and Gretchen's exchanges were really sweet, especially the 'thick' and 'thin' part.
I have another book by this author ready to read in the next few weeks or so. While it's not actually connected to this book... I'm still interested in glimpsing more worlds and characters created by this author.
(This review may contain spoilers).
So... when this book arrived and I read the blurb, I didn't think it was the kind of book that would have piqued my interest if I saw it in a book shop. Although it's a paranormal, I have virtually no interest in poker... and I assumed that most of the book would be about the game of poker; which actually was the case, but I felt the book had a lot more to it than that.
I thought that both Telly and Clutch were interesting characters, though I did like Telly a lot more than Clutch for a lot of the book. I found it really interesting to see how Telly was trying to deal with his financial problems. I felt a lot of sympathy for Gretchen, since I was able to see how affected she was by what was happening with Telly. Even though it wasn't his fault, I could see where Gretchen was coming from.
Although Clutch's character had grown on me by the end of the book, I didn't really like him very much during it. I thought that, even though he had his moments of empathy, he only cared about himself. I did have a lot of sympathy for Ginny and I thought the fact that she cared about Clutch and his daughter was obvious, even though Ruby wasn't actually related to her. I really disliked Jenny. I was glad to see that she didn't have things go completely right for her by the end of the book.
I got quite confused about Stan's character. I mistook him for another character who'd shown up, but I liked seeing him interacting with Telly and although I didn't know exactly why he was feeling so depressed at one point, it was nice to see that Telly was able to reason with him and that Stan was able to help him out. I also liked seeing Big Daddy and Cheryl. It was good to see that Telly did have friends around him and I thought the fact that he was one of the good guys came across really well. He seemed to have a really kind heart and he was someone who was really easy to relate to.
There was a lot about this book that felt really good to read. It drew me into the storyline really easily and Telly and Gretchen's exchanges were really sweet, especially the 'thick' and 'thin' part.
I have another book by this author ready to read in the next few weeks or so. While it's not actually connected to this book... I'm still interested in glimpsing more worlds and characters created by this author.
December 30, 2015
"Pokergeist" by Michael Philip Cash is a genie in the bottle story crossed with a Rocky against the odds tale, with poker as the focus. If you like the sound of that then crack on as you don’t need to read any more of this review.
If, however, you need further details then please, by all means, stick around awhile.
Clutch Henderson is a professional, life-long terrible gambler but a wonderful poker player. He faces off against Adam ‘the Ant’ Antonowski, a teen upstart who battles through to the final table of the International Series of Poker from the humble origins of an on line tournament.
As the final hand beckons and the elusive championship bracelet seems to be within Clutch’s reach he loses. As the realisation dawns Clutch suffers a dreadful heart-attack and dies.
Fast forward one year and we are introduced to Telly, a down on his luck I.T. engineer who has recently been made redundant and dreams, for some inexplicable reason, of entering the International Series tournament and winning it. I say inexplicable because Telly is a terrible player.
He’s lived his life by rules and systems so why he wants to enter and believes he can win at a game of chance and skill is a little lost on me.
Anyhow, with his last penny Telly throws a coin into a fountain pond wishing he wasn’t loser at the same time as Clutch gets one last chance from his guardian Angel to realise his dreams. Thrown together Telly and Clutch go for it.
**I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review**
"Pokergeist" is short, sharp and sweet. The dialogue is snappy, the poker showdowns are wonderfully realised and the rhythms of the game of poker comes across brilliantly.
The characters are thin and not at all sympathetic. Unfortunately habitual gambling doesn’t garner a lot of sympathy. The females are portrayed like they’ve been written from the viewpoint of an early Bon Jovi song. Blah.
While I’ve already stated the dialogue is snappy, the author’s insistence of changing viewpoints, sometime is mid-conversation is extremely erratic and annoying. Please stop it Michael as this dampens the impact your Elmore Leonard-esq dialogue has on the novel.
Sharp, pacey and with wit, "‘Pokergeist’" is a good, but ever so slightly flawed diversion.
Reviewed by David at www.whisperingstories.com
If, however, you need further details then please, by all means, stick around awhile.
Clutch Henderson is a professional, life-long terrible gambler but a wonderful poker player. He faces off against Adam ‘the Ant’ Antonowski, a teen upstart who battles through to the final table of the International Series of Poker from the humble origins of an on line tournament.
As the final hand beckons and the elusive championship bracelet seems to be within Clutch’s reach he loses. As the realisation dawns Clutch suffers a dreadful heart-attack and dies.
Fast forward one year and we are introduced to Telly, a down on his luck I.T. engineer who has recently been made redundant and dreams, for some inexplicable reason, of entering the International Series tournament and winning it. I say inexplicable because Telly is a terrible player.
He’s lived his life by rules and systems so why he wants to enter and believes he can win at a game of chance and skill is a little lost on me.
Anyhow, with his last penny Telly throws a coin into a fountain pond wishing he wasn’t loser at the same time as Clutch gets one last chance from his guardian Angel to realise his dreams. Thrown together Telly and Clutch go for it.
**I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review**
"Pokergeist" is short, sharp and sweet. The dialogue is snappy, the poker showdowns are wonderfully realised and the rhythms of the game of poker comes across brilliantly.
The characters are thin and not at all sympathetic. Unfortunately habitual gambling doesn’t garner a lot of sympathy. The females are portrayed like they’ve been written from the viewpoint of an early Bon Jovi song. Blah.
While I’ve already stated the dialogue is snappy, the author’s insistence of changing viewpoints, sometime is mid-conversation is extremely erratic and annoying. Please stop it Michael as this dampens the impact your Elmore Leonard-esq dialogue has on the novel.
Sharp, pacey and with wit, "‘Pokergeist’" is a good, but ever so slightly flawed diversion.
Reviewed by David at www.whisperingstories.com
July 26, 2015
Poker made entertaining via unusual characters
This story moves quickly, both in terms of events and in ease of reading. It is one of those stories that just seems to flow smoothly, even though there is no dramatic action. Although there are millions of dollars at stake.
Clutch Henderson is an excellent poker player, he is vying for the championship of the International Series of Poker and when he loses in the last match, he drops dead. Clutch has also left behind a bit of a mess, he is still legally married to one woman even though he has been living with another for many years. Clutch also owes a lot of money to a loan shark, and he is circling among the people in Clutch’s life, trying to find which one inherited his money.
Yet, while Clutch is dead, he is not gone, his ghost continues to float around Las Vegas and he encounters Telly Martin, a computer expert that is unemployed and trying to make a living as a poker player. Albeit with a spectacular lack of success. Clutch encounters Telly and convinces him to let Clutch help him win at poker. Of course Clutch can see their cards and only Telly can hear him, so Telly has a decided advantage.
What makes the story work is the quirky nature of all of the characters, from Telly and his girlfriend to Telly’s parents, to Clutch’s girlfriend, wife, daughter and even the pimp and his working girl. Until I read this story I never thought that a book about a poker tournament could ever keep my interest. I finished this one within 24 hours of opening it for the first time.
This book was made available for free for review purposes and this review also appears on Amazon.
This story moves quickly, both in terms of events and in ease of reading. It is one of those stories that just seems to flow smoothly, even though there is no dramatic action. Although there are millions of dollars at stake.
Clutch Henderson is an excellent poker player, he is vying for the championship of the International Series of Poker and when he loses in the last match, he drops dead. Clutch has also left behind a bit of a mess, he is still legally married to one woman even though he has been living with another for many years. Clutch also owes a lot of money to a loan shark, and he is circling among the people in Clutch’s life, trying to find which one inherited his money.
Yet, while Clutch is dead, he is not gone, his ghost continues to float around Las Vegas and he encounters Telly Martin, a computer expert that is unemployed and trying to make a living as a poker player. Albeit with a spectacular lack of success. Clutch encounters Telly and convinces him to let Clutch help him win at poker. Of course Clutch can see their cards and only Telly can hear him, so Telly has a decided advantage.
What makes the story work is the quirky nature of all of the characters, from Telly and his girlfriend to Telly’s parents, to Clutch’s girlfriend, wife, daughter and even the pimp and his working girl. Until I read this story I never thought that a book about a poker tournament could ever keep my interest. I finished this one within 24 hours of opening it for the first time.
This book was made available for free for review purposes and this review also appears on Amazon.
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