Deadly Dunes

Mac McClellan Mystery #3

by E.Michael Helms

Hours after hiring Mac McClellan to investigate the supposed suicide of her archaeologist brother, single-mom Jessie dies in a car accident. Jessie had just showed Mac artifacts and a copy of a map Jake found, items that indicate Hernando de Soto and his explorers might have camped on Five Mile Island during the winter of 1539-1540. Studying the map, Mac determines the site lies in the middle of a planned resort, The Dunes. Declaring the area an historic site could shut the project down. Suspicions aroused, he forges ahead, even though he no longer has a paying client.

Everywhere Mac turns, greed abounds, and no one he interviews seems innocent, even Jessie's closest friends the Deckers, who have adopted her teenage daughter. Ron Decker's construction company is building the Dunes, and he is heavily invested in its success. Then there is the oily son and ex-stripper wife of an old curmudgeon who won't sell the one lot the project still needs to acquire. Jake's estranged wife Laurel had plenty to gain from his death, and as Mac continues to dig, he begins to wonder if Jessie herself had more at stake than he was led to believe.

No one is happy about Mac's persistence, and someone is unhappy enough to crash his truck and frame him for yet another murder. But Mac isn't giving up, no matter what the cost.

Book 3 in the Mac McClellan Mystery series.

Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Fiction

220 pages, Paperback

Published March 16, 2016

About the author

Maybe I should start by saying a few months ago (early 2022) I went up to the pearly gates of heaven.

And now I’d like to say how much I’ve enjoyed, and tormented on some, writing my books. The Proud Bastards and The Private War of Corporal Henson took some real gut-wrenching facing my feelings from the Vietnam War. As an 18-year-old in the Marine Corps I saw and did things that that no one should have to. After being traumatically wounded and returning home, the Vietnam War followed me. It remained with me all my life. And as I grew older, the memories, nightmarish scenes of carnage, flashbacks, and PTSD seemed to increase.

Having an interest in history, my next books, Of Blood and Brothers, Book 1 and 2, based on a true story of two brothers serving on opposites sides in the War Between the States, was a challenge to write because of all the research and time it took to make it as authentic as I could. And I was very pleased and satisfied with the result.

After those four books, I wanted to try writing something lighter. I lit upon the Mac McClellan mystery series. Set in Florida near where I grew up, Mac, a recently retired Marine, happens to become a private investigator. And all kinds of things just seem to happen to him, or he becomes involved with. Starting with Deadly Catch, then Deadly Ruse, Deadly Dunes, and lastly Deadly Sprits, it was a series I had fun writing. The next in the series, Deadly Verse, was left half written.

Along the way I was also busy writing blogs, mentoring inspiring writers, and critiquing and editing for others. I enjoyed all of it as writing was one of my passions. And I so much appreciated my wife, Karen, for all of her support, encouragement, and love.

And that is where the stories end dear friends and readers.

***********
I was born in Georgia way back in the last century but grew up and lived most of my life in Panama City, Florida. In 2004 my wife and I moved to the Upstate region of South Carolina in the shadows of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, a land of stunning vistas, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and numerous grand waterfalls.

I’ve been traditionally published since 1990 when my Vietnam War memoir, The Proud Bastards, was published. It’s about my time as a combat U.S. Marine in 1967-68. It’s still in print after all these years, currently with Simon & Schuster/Pocket. I’ve since written a few novels in different genres. I’m currently writing the Mac McClellan Mystery series which is set along the coast of the Florida Panhandle where I grew up.

Reviews

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

MYSTERY LOVERS!
Has Mac started investigating the paranormal? E. Michael Helms Presents Another Mac McClellan Mystery - DEADLY SPIRITS Blitz & #Giveaway Click on Banner to Enter - INTL unless stated - Ends March 16, 2017


The coroner ruled it suicide, but Jessie knew her brother would never kill himself. He had too much to live for at the moment, discoveries to make, and history to uncover as an archaeologist. Jessie needed a good, honest and hard-working PI, someone she could trust, where else would she go but to Mac McClellan, retired soldier and investigator extraordinaire? Who knew that only hours later, Jessie would be found dead herself, in a supposed car accident? As they say, the plot thickens and Mac seems to be getting sucked into the middle of this quagmire of deceit, personal agendas and greed for the almighty dollar.

“X” marks the spot where an ancient explorer once camped with his men in the sixteenth century and that very “X” also marks the grounds about to be reincarnated as a high end resort on the beautiful gulf coast of Florida. Can mac sit back and let money trump history? Who would kill an archaeologist and make it look like suicide? The odds are stacked against Mac, but he doggedly trudges from one crumb to another in search of the truth, before he becomes a victim, himself.

E. Michael Helms is back with Deadly Dunes, another Mac McClellan mystery, filled with murder, mayhem and the sunny beaches of Florida. Part Southern Gentleman, part ex-Marine, and quite possibly part pit bull, Mac is still a force to be reckoned with when he gets hooked on a case. Is it his Southern Charm, his rough-edged appeal that makes him an amazing character? Perhaps it’s his wit and offbeat sense of humor that hides an old softy inside for the underdogs?

Whatever it is, E. Michael Helms has the perfect blend of action, suspense and mystery that is sure to grab anyone who like a semi-hard-boiled PI tale. Great dialogue, along with detailed scenes set the mood for every page, while the supporting cast only made Mac even more adorable…yes, I used the word adorable.

I received an ARC edition from E.Michael Helms in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Mac McClellan Mystery - Book 3
Publication Date: March 15, 2016
Publisher: Camel Press
ISBN-10: 1603813470
ISBN-13: 978-1603813471
Genre: Mystery | Suspense
Paperback: 228 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[E.Michael Helms · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Midwest Book Review: Deadly Dunes: A Mac McClellan Mystery

Another deftly crafted mystery/suspense masterpiece from author E. Michael Helms, Deadly Dunes is the third title in his outstanding Mac McClellan Mystery series. Very highly recommended reading action/adventure mystery buffs, Deadly Dunes is certain to be an enduringly popular addition to community library collections. Also very highly recommended are the two earlier titles in this superbly written series: Deadly Catch (9781616148676, $15.95 PB, $9.59 Kindle) and Deadly Ruse (9781616140090, $15.95 PB, $9.59 Kindle, 239 pp).


Review of Deadly Dunes (Mac McClellan #3) by Lori Leger, for InD'tale Magazine - 4.5 Stars

When a local archeologist supposedly takes his own life, his sister hires former Marine turned P.I. Mac McClellan to investigate the case. She insists her brother was murdered because of his finds on Five Mile Island off the panhandle coast of Florida. The sister also dies under mysterious circumstances, adding to and removing names from Mac’s list of suspects. More snooping leads to two more deaths and an attempt on Mac’s life, letting him know he’s definitely on the right track. Aided by his girlfriend, Kate, his Doberman puppy named Henry the Eighth, and a female deputy named Dakota, he closes in on the mystery. Can he solve it before it gets too dangerous?

“Deadly Dunes” is a fabulous whodunit, written in first person narrative—think Sam Spade or Philip Marlowe—a la classic hardboiled, detective movie style. The writing is nearly flawless, with a nice arc and plausible storylines. The characters are so fleshed out that this reader could picture Mac, dressed in cargo shorts and flip flops, flipping steaks and burgers on his grill, with his faithful pup at his feet. This being Mac’s first case after becoming a licensed P.I., he made a few mistakes, understandably, that put him in danger, or temporarily led him down the wrong path. All were newbie mistakes that only led to the story’s credibility, in this reviewer’s humble opinion. A story that comes highly recommended!


This review is from Amazon.com/uk

5.0 out of 5 stars -- Then the truth hits you in the face like bloody giant wall
By jodie on 26 May 2016

Format: Paperback

Reviewed by Queens Of The Darkside

Wow!! what a Fab-Tastic mystery book this was!!! it's full of twists and turns that keep your mind thinking and trying to work out what's going on when you just honestly cannot possibly guess it. Then the truth hits you in the face like bloody giant wall.
This story was truly amazing it gets you hooked and keeps you there until it's finished then you swear you hear the story laugh at you because you just don't know what to do with yourself once it's finished.
the writing is brilliant with great descriptive language being used in promise you won't miss a thing..... If you enjoy a good mystery book then this is the one to read
5 stars from me!!!

[Jonel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helms returns to the world of Mac McClellan with the same solid writing and captivating mystery that I’ve come to expect from him, but with an added twist this time that made the tale even more captivating for me. I enjoyed the mix of history with the mystery. The aura that permeated the tale was both inviting and suspenseful. Helms has created a work of art, backed up by the beautiful scenery of the area in which he set this novel.

The military based characters were so real. I enjoyed how Helms stripped away the larger than life aura that we so often see in literature and presented the people as they really are. Yet at the same time, the cast was comprised of so much more than just ex-military. Everyone involved in the tale was a blast to get to know. For those who’ve been following the series, becoming reacquainted with individuals was a lot of fun, and for those reading this novel on its own, there’s more than enough development to get to know them here.

Being someone who shops for books based on the cover, I’ve got to comment on this one. The realism of the picture really caught my eye. It’s definitely one I’d pick up for a second look if I were looking for a mystery.

As a whole, this was a good, clean mystery that had me on my toes from page 1 to the very end. The enjoyable writing style backed up the solid plot to create a novel that mystery lovers will have a ball with.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

[Sherry Fundin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything about Michael and Mac speaks to me. We like a lot of the same things and I am eager to get this adventure on the ‘road’.

Mac reminds me of Tom Selleck in Jesse Stone and Magnum PI. He’s not the perfect hero, but he gets the job done. I don’t mind a flawed character, in fact, it makes him seem real to me.

I’m glad that he considers the Florida Panhandle the ‘Forgotten Coast.’ I love it here.

A visit for Mac turned into a move and it was his good fortune to meet Kate, a feisty, fun gal who won his heart. His managerial tone of voice rang familiar to me. I have one of those at home.

Michael Helms jumped right into the mystery Mac is hired to solve, when the professor of archaeology at Florida State University is murdered. I think we may be going on a treasure hunt.
As the bodies mount, greed raises its ugly head. Is anybody telling the truth…about anything?

I love the fun and lively banter between Mac and Kate. Romance and mystery seem to go hand and hand for me and Michael Helms has a good supply of that. Their personalities shine through making me want more of them. The location is familiar to me and adds a little something extra to the story. I loved tromping through the ditches and climbing trees with Mac. There was so much going on, I had to wait for the package to be wrapped up for me. I love when I can’t figure everything out for myself. A perfect read the season.

I received a copy of Deadly Dunes by E Michael Helms in return for an honest review.

To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com

[Max Everhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Multi-million dollar real estate deals. A priceless map drawn by 16th century explorers. Coded messages in Spanish and English. Femme fatales and callous businessmen. Snipers and lying women. Suicide and murder. Sex and intrigue. Like a complex stew, there are many layers to Deadly Dunes, the third installment in the highly-entertaining Mac McClellan series, and although I greedily consumed this mystery in one sitting, I’d recommend slowing down, savoring the many flavors.

The setup: McClellan is hired to investigate the alleged suicide of an archeology professor, who just so happens to have stumbled across a map from Hernando de Soto’s 1539 exploration of a place called Five Mile Island, an idyllic spot on the coast of Florida. Little does McClellan know that the map will draw him into the always dangerous world of big money real estate development, and before long, he’s embroiled in yet another complex web of lies, money, and murder. The only question is: can McClellan, a retired Marine turned P.I., discover the truth, thwart the bad guys, and remain in one piece?

This is a solid mystery with plenty of red herrings and double-crossings to keep the reader guessing until the end. But, as always, the thing I enjoyed the most was Mac McClellan. A drinker of Budweiser, an avid fisherman, a man’s man with a sarcastic tongue and a secret chivalrous streak, McClellan has quickly become one of my favorite P.I.s, and I look forward to his next adventure. Highly recommended.

[Jodie Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Queens Of The Darkside
Wow!! what a Fab-Tastic mystery book this was!!! it's full of twists and turns that keep your mind thinking and trying to work out what's going on when you just honestly cannot possibly guess it. Then the truth hits you in the face like bloody giant wall.
This story was truly amazing it gets you hooked and keeps you there until it's finished then you swear you hear the story laugh at you because you just don't know what to do with yourself once it's finished.
the writing is brilliant with great descriptive language being used in promise you won't miss a thing..... If you enjoy a good mystery book then this is the one to read
5 stars from me!!!

[Edie Dykeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mac McClellan was hired by a woman to investigate the possible suicide of her brother, an archaeologist. Jake was an associate professor of archaeology at Florida State University who was on his way to conduct preliminary research on possible archaeology sites. His findings would possibly have shut down a multi-million dollar Florida community development.

He was found dead in his car from a gunshot wound that was made to look like he committed suicide, but it was later found he was heavily sedated with his wife’s drugs.

Exactly two months to the day after her brother was killed, Jessie died as a result of an automobile accident. Mac took the death hard. Although he only had his private eye license for six weeks and he no longer had a client, Mac decided to keep the case open at his own expense. He found Jessie had also been heavily sedated when she hit a bridge abutment.

During his investigation, Mac found out that the man who adopted Jessie’s daughter was the owner of the construction company building the Dunes. There was one lot left to purchase before the development could move forward and that was a historic site right in the middle of the land.

Mac continued the investigation on his own, but at great risk. Someone wanted him dead.

Deadly Dunes by E. Michael Helms is the third book in the Mac McClellan Mystery series following Deadly Catch and Deadly Ruse. The award-winning series has taken readers from the beginning when Mac retired from the military to his becoming a private investigator and his growing relationships with his girlfriend, Katie, and his fellow investigator, Hank, who is teaching him the ropes.

This story is addictive and an easy one to get lost in as the reader continues to turn pages. The characters are well drawn, the even pace builds tension, and the ending satisfies. The author is adept at creating settings and has an eye for detail giving one the feeling they are a part of the landscape.

[M.J. Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Deadly Dunes” is the latest Mac McClellan Mystery by E. Michael Helms. This series is certain to become a classic in its genre and already has an award winner in 2015. “Deadly Dunes” has the Helms trademark air tight plot that leaves the reader breathless. It is easy for the reader to fall in love with Mac and be hooked on his wit and personality while gripped by the snaky story as it unfolds. In “Deadly Dunes” an archeologist dies under what his sister considers suspicious circumstances. Mac is hired and takes on a greedy corporation intent on buying up Five Mile Island on the Florida coast piece by piece as it aims for a stranglehold to own the island and build a posh resort. No matter that the remains of the winter stay of Hernando De Soto’s ancient expedition in the form of artifacts have been discovered in the middle of the proposed building site by Mac with a map and a code. There is only one holdout who will not sell, an eccentric old man conveniently found dead (who inflicts his own revenge in the end). The plot stiffens as Mac forces a rogue’s gallery of possible suspects with lots to lose should the island be declared an historic site to show their hands in one way or another. One surprise twist after another leaves Mac in grave danger after the murders and he uses his stubborn resourcefulness and military knowhow to save himself and solve the mystery. “Deadly Dunes” features a new character in the form of a Doberman puppy rescued by Mac’s girlfriend Kate, who gifts him the puppy so he now has a roommate. What better breed for an ex-Marine. Like a straight shot of Grey Goose, the classy writing in “Deadly Dunes” is smooth and pleasurably descriptive as Helms leads the reader from scene to scene with proficient skill. Both male and female readers will be, as I was, captivated by his iron hand in the velvet glove approach. Five stars, this is a must read.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Mexico, I just knew I had to read this series. I’ve read the first two books and couldn’t wait to see what kind of pickle Mac got himself into this time.

Newly retired and looking for something new, Mac landed in the Florida Panhandle. It seems he’s a magnet for trouble and inadvertently ends up in a couple of murder cases.

An encounter with the enchanting, Kate, spurs him to put down roots. A young woman insists her brother, an archaeology professor, didn’t commit suicide, but was murdered. The plot thickens when she mysteriously dies in a car accident after speaking to Mac.

As suspects crawl out from under the woodwork, the author keeps you busy sifting through the false leads to find the motive and the killer or killers.

Mac. What can I say. Retired from the military, he’s got a bark he needs to tame. His girlfriend Kate is quick to remind him he’s no longer in the military and she doesn’t take orders.

It’s never mentioned but I wonder if Mac’s a Jimmy Buffet fan. He sure feels like a fellow parrothead.

The bullets fly. There are multiple car crashes. Beer and scotch are consumed. And you’re taken on a treasure hunt. What a bounty.

I’ve become familiar with the setting for this series and it’s fun to recognize locations and land marks.

I almost forgot to mention. There’s a shiny new character you’ll be meeting. His tag is Henry the Eighth, and you’ll love him!

With lots of action, a mystery that’s not easily solved, a feeling of coming home, and character’s I’ve become quite fond of, I was kept entertained. I’m enjoying this series and hope there is more to come.

I received this book for my honest review.

[Diane Coto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mac and his girlfriend, Kate, are back at it in this third book of the Mac McClellan series. Single mom, Jessie, hires him to investigate her archaeologist brother’s death. She didn’t believe it was suicide as the authorities suggested. He had too much to live for. Then Jessie is killed in an accident. It all seems a little too coincidental to Mac. Before she died, Jessie had managed to get a lot of information to Mac about Jacob’s findings. But what does he do now without a paying client? Move forward, of course.

Jacob had managed to find an antiquated map believed to be drawn during the exploration of Hernando de Soto and his men in the sixteenth century. It pointed to a current place of Five Mile Island on the coast of Florida. In present day, the place just happens to be where a brand new resort is scheduled to be built. Big money and powerful companies do not welcome any hindrance to their profitmaking resort.

This was an engrossing novel with many thrilling twists. However, I’m a stickler for ‘real’ or plausible situations within fiction. Unless I missed it, there was no indicator of how Jacob had obtained the map. I know he’s an archeologist, but a little more detail into how he managed to come upon a sixteenth century map would have more fully fleshed out part of this novel’s plot. I did enjoy the characters, especially the banter between Mac and Kate. The dialogue was wonderful even by the secondary characters. This is the third in the Mac McClellan series. He was introduced to us in Deadly Catch as a former US Marine. In Deadly Ruse, he became a PI working for Frank Hightower of Hightower Investigations. Rating: 4 out of 5.

[Ellyn Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book. I am a huge fan of this series because I enjoy quick paced, fun-loving mysteries. This read was that and so much more. Helms drops the reader back into Mac's life and we quickly find ourselves entangled in another thrilling story. Mac McClellan is up to his eye teeth in another "tangled web we weave" cast who keeps you guessing until the last page. Some of the familiar cast adds a familiar feel to his latest book, but it by no means an easy mystery to solve.

When a single mom shows up dead hours after hiring Mac to prove her brother's suicide was murder. Mac quickly becomes hell-bend to prove how the siblings murders are connected. When Mac discovers the cast of suspects are all related through high school, the plot thickens. He soon discovers these teenage relationships turn into adult affairs of love and financial gain and loss.

I am not one to write about spoilers, so you will have to believe me when I say this book will keep you guessing to the very end. Mac is in true form to personality and gumption as he navigates his way through the sordid details of this mystery. He takes on big companies, big money and tight personal and financial relationships.

The book is perfectly paced satisfying the reader's need to know appetite. If you have been waiting for another Mac McClellan Mystery, this one will not disappoint. It steps up the action and layers the cast to keep the reader entertain. Helms and Mac out did themselves again!

[Michelle Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite

Deadly Dunes is from the Mac McClellan Mystery series by E. Michael Helms. Private Detective Mac McClellan decides to continue his investigation after his client, Jessie, dies shortly after hiring him to investigate her brother’s death. Jake was an archaeologist who unearthed artefacts and a coded map to an alleged camp of famed explorer, Hernando de Soto, and Jessie was convinced he was murdered.

Mac learns that a construction company wants the site to build a resort and would do anything within their means to acquire it. The people who were close to the siblings also have ulterior motives for wanting them dead, and Mac hopes he can find the data Jake hid before the killers do. He knows they are ruthless enough to remove all obstacles in their way, including him.

Deadly Dunes is a sleuth mystery with good action and suspense. The story is an interesting one that sees its main character and narrator, Mac, constantly forgetting his P.I. training and resorting to doing things in his own amateurish way. I think the dialogue is witty and I like Mac’s dry sense of humour that seemed to irk some characters.

The story catches one’s attention with a beginning that made me curious to read on, as well as being amusing at times while Mac continues his sleuthing. E. Michael Helms writes well and I want to read other books from his Mac McClellan Mystery series, whose protagonist is compelling.

[Jessica Bronder · Rating 4 out of 5]

An archaeologist, Jake has been found dead, the police rule it a suicide but his sister, Jessie knows better. Because he was looking for Hearnando de Soto had camped in the same area he was investigating, Jessie knows that it was murder. She calls Mac in to investigate. Mac discovers that a resort is planned on being built in the same area. There are a lot of suspects that seem to have something to gain from this resort. But when they decide to try and take out Mac, things get very personal.

This is Mac’s first official case as a private investigator. But this case is no so cut and dry. Because Jake had some mental health issues the suicide seems to be closer to the truth, but the more Mac digs the more it looks like someone is trying to hide something. Then they target him and things get really exciting.

This is a great mystery. I didn’t know who did it until the end because there are a lot of potential killers for many different reasons. There is a lot of action and you can’t help but liking Mac. Mac is a true down home hero. I couldn’t put this book down until the wee hours of the morning.

I f you are looking for a great mystery full of thrills and chills I recommend you check out Deadly Dunes. As for me, I’m going to find the first two books in the series and find out more about Mac.

I received Deadly Dunes for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Fiction Vixens Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading anything by E.Michael Helms and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this great mystery story. This great story by E.Michael Helms was written with some suspense ,twists and turns that will shock you . The characters were amazing and I especially liked the banter between Mac and Kate. The secondary characters were also great and helped make this storyline flow smoothly. In Deadly Dune we have archaeologist who is die and his sister doesn't believe that it was suicide, because Jessie believes he was murder because her brother Jake had everything to live for and she knows that he wouldn't kill himself. Jake just had so much to live for at the moment like his job and the history that was waiting for him to discover. So Jessie needed a good hard working P.I. that she could trust .so she hires Mac McClellen ,who just happens to be a retired soldier. But not soon after hiring Mac ,poor Jessie is found die in an car accident. I'm not one for giving away spoilers ,so I must say this is one roller coaster ride that you don't want to miss out on.This great story by E.Michael Helms will draw you into it's pages and keep you there from start to finish ,and will have you on the edge of your seat until you find out why Jessie and Jake were killed. So I highly recommend that you read this amazing story,because you won't be disappointed

[Andrea Renfrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

E. Michael Helms has done it again. He’s written a fun, spunky mystery involving Mac McClellan, and I find myself crushing on him much like the overly spirited cop, Dakota. Mac is the token ex-marine turned P.I., equal parts gentleman and appropriate amounts of perve. Cunning, but not too lucky.

I like that in this installment, Helms works in the fact that private investigators don’t have the luxury of only working one case at a time if they want to get paid. Mac has to take time away from the big case everyone is grumbling about to an unseemly one that will cut him a check. As per the norm with Mac McClellan books, it was easy to get into, a breeze to read, and satisfying to finish.

My only lament was due to my over excitement at the possibility of more archaeological tidbits. I love archaeology and was anticipating Mac going a little more Indiana Jones in this book than usual due to the nature of the big case. This is to no fault of Helms, who included what was appropriate for the story and the characters, merely a personal disappointment.

As usual, I look forward to the next Mac McClellan book. He’s a personal favorite of mine and made a great addition to my summer mystery binge reading.

Be sure to follow E. Michael Helms on twitter: https://twitter.com/EMichaelHelms

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Dunes by E. Michael Helms

Jessie hires Mac McClellen to investigate the alleged suicide of her brother and she ends up dead. Jessie had just showed Mac artifacts and a map Jake found that indicate De Soto and his explorers might have camped on Five Mile Island. Mac learns the site lies in the middle of a planned resort called The Dunes. Declaring the area an historic site could shut the project down.

No one seems happy he is investigating, even though his client is dead. everyone is suspicious, who can he trust and what are people hiding. Mac is determined to find the truth at any cost, even when his truck is damaged and he is being framed for another murder.

A well written page-turning murder mystery. The plot is original moving at a steady pace with a lot of thrills, action, drama and suspense. Everyone is a suspect, there are a lot of twists and surprises. The characters are well developed and most of them are likable. I highly recommend DEADLY DUNES to all. A true five-star read. I love Mac MacClellan!

[Christa Nardi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mac opens his own PI office and is settling down. In comes Jessie convinced that her brother did not commit suicide but was murdered over some artifacts. Mac doesn't take her too seriously until she immediately dies in a car crash and the other artifacts she told him about disappear. Not a fan of coincidences, he pursues the case even though his mentor reminds him that his client is dead and obviously not paying the bills. He takes on Bonnie's case, but can't let Jessie's concerns go. He finds out about the plans for the resort and the lone hold out, who suddenly goes missing.

The plot is well-developed as are the supporting characters. Mac doesn't always play by the rules in his investigation. Although a tough guy, he has a soft side. Those who enjoyed the first two in the series will not be disappointed. This can be read as a stand alone, but if this is your first Mac McClellan, you'll want to go back to the beginning of his story.

FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in the hopes that I would post an honest review. This has not affected the content of my review in any way.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Dunes is a good, old-fashioned mystery with multiple suspects, twists in plots, and plenty of clues to keep everyone guessing.

Through a complicated web of clues and red herrings, the reader may have a difficult time keeping up with private investigator, Mac McClellan. He is an interesting, likable character, more so than, say, Lee Child’s Jack Reacher, but with the same knack to survive dangerous situations unscathed.

The sassy interplay between Mac and his feisty lady friend, Kate, is just enough to fit into and balance the fast action story. I like her. I also like Dakota, a flirty female deputy, who would gladly step into Kate’s shoes if the opportunity arose.

The story takes place in the panhandle of Florida, a new location for me. Without dumping information on us, Helms gives the reader a good sense of the area’s culture, people, and geography. He even gives us a healthy dose of local history by using buried artifacts as part of the plot.

Take a journey through Helms’s Deadly Dunes, and you’ll want to visit again.

[Book Review Virginia Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

VIRGINIA REVIEW
****************************************
If you are looking of a great Mystery book, then this is the one for you. The story was written wonderful with all the suspense and twist of turns that will take you by special. What has started as a investigate for Mac to work. It is slowly causing more problems and twist of turns to show up. Will this investigation be too much for Mac to handle at all? When you go up the big boys some things do not stay hidden or will they make sure all their secrets stay buried. Mac is stubborn enough that he has to solve the mystery of the island that all want for themselves.
This was a first book by this author and looking to read more in the future. Recommend this book for all mystery readers.
How would you describe the plot of this book? some twist
Which of these words best describes the mood? Suspenseful
How would you describe the pace? steady
How would you describe the characters? developed
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *

[Ellen Behrens · Rating 5 out of 5]

E. Michael Helms' Mac McClellan books have it all: great setting, wonderful characters, and a plot that will keep you guessing. The towns he describes along the Florida panhandle might very well be real, for all I know, and should I find one of them, I'm sure I'd spot any of the characters as I drove the streets.

Helms has created a woven story that appears so full of gaps and loose ends it doesn't seem possible he could pull those threads tightly enough for a clear image to emerge. But he pulls it off. Everything makes sense, fits, and no loose ends are left dangling.

I'll add this: while reading "Deadly Dunes" during the day, I was also finishing Michael Connelly's "The Poet," before bed. Connelly's mystery also uses a "suicide or not?" element, so you'd think it would be easy to lose track of the characters or otherwise confuse the two books, but I was able to keep them straight. It says a lot when an author of a few books can keep up with a master like Connelly, but he did exactly that, delivering an intensely absorbing and satisfying mystery.

Love live Mac McClellan!

[Elena Hartwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Third in the “Mac” McClellan series, Deadly Dunes, pours across the page with all the heat of a southern summer night. Determined to make it as a private investigator, E Michael Helms's retired Marine uses sharp wits and a military background to solve a deadly crime.

Balancing life and death on the edge of his KA-BAR combat blade, Mac confronts a colorful host of characters, all of whom lie, cheat, and steal their way onto his list of suspects. But who is setting up whom? And which version of the deceased is the one Mac should believe?

Intent on untangling the complex web of relationships to uncover the truth about a mysterious death, Mac still finds time to track down a cheating husband and discover a little ancient treasure in the sand. Add in a sexy locale, exotic dancers, and more twists and turns than salt water taffy on a pulling machine, this clever whodunit is the perfect getaway, a great beach read that includes the actual beach.

[Alexa Verde · Rating 5 out of 5]

E. Michael Helms has done it again! Deadly Dunes is a terrific addition to his great Mac McClellan Mysteries. Once again, we meet Mac, the retired Marine turned private investigator, who has a knack for solving crimes and getting himself into dangerous situations. It's a lot of fun to follow his adventures as he untangles the web of deceit surrounding the death of an archaeologist whose historical findings could threaten building of a luxurious resort. Even though his client, the archaeologist's sister, dies shortly after hiring him, Mac perseveres in searching for the truth. Mac is such a likable character, tough-as-nails, hard-working, and with an excellent sense of humor, and the cast of supporting characters is fantastic as well. Deadly Dunes is a well-written, old-fashioned mystery with the main character for whom it's easy to root and cheer, and many clues, twists, and turns. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebecca Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mac McClellan is an ex-Marine and newly licensed Private Investigator. He receives a call from Jessie Lofton who believes that her brother did not commit suicide but was murdered and asks Mac to take the job. When Jessie herself turns up murdered Mac knows that he must solve the case on his own in respect to Jessie's daughter.

Yet it seems as though everyone involved as ghosts in their closets and no one is who you think they are. Will Mac figure it out in time or will he be next on the list to die?

I really enjoyed this book as there were so many twists and turns that I kept engaged the whole time and really wasn't sure who was going to end up guilty. I loved Mac's association with deputy Dakota Owens as their relationship was super interesting and I wondered what would come about from it, even though Mac was in a relationship with Kate.

This was a great book and I definitely look forward to more from the author!

[Virginia Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking of a great Mystery book, then this is the one for you. The story was written wonderful with all the suspense and twist of turns that will take you by special. What has started as a investigate for Mac to work. It is slowly causing more problems and twist of turns to show up. Will this investigation be too much for Mac to handle at all? When you go up the big boys some things do not stay hidden or will they make sure all their secrets stay buried. Mac is stubborn enough that he has to solve the mystery of the island that all want for themselves. This was a first book by this author and looking to read more in the future. Recommend this book for all mystery readers. How would you describe the plot of this book? some twist Which of these words best describes the mood? Suspenseful How would you describe the pace? steady How would you describe the characters? developed * I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review *

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Given To Me For Review

Deadly Dunes by E. Michael Helms is another hit. You have to be sure that you have your seatbelt on nice and tight. You are going on a ride that you never have gone on before. You'll travel through some twists and turns too. Once you open the book you'll watch the pages turn and turn and turn some more until the end. As you read you'll feel yourself being drawn in and become a part of the story. Not long after Mac McClellan is hired to investigate a suicide, the victim's sister dies in a car accident. Will McClellan be able to find out the truth? Will he be able to stop the bad guys? You will keep guessing until the end. This book is one you won't put down until you finish reading it. It is a fantastic read. It's a 5 star but I wish I could give it more. I highly recommend it to all.

[Larry B Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Dunes by E. Michael Helms is the perfect book for all readers who love a story about a detective with a good mystery on his hands. This book is the type of book you can't put down when you start reading.

The author has developed a tale which is full of mystery and intrigue. Its fast paced storyline and many plot twist will leave you gasping for air. Even with all this it is easy read but you have to keep up. I loved it.

E. Michael Helms has developed a group of characters that are very real to life. This makes it easy to get behind them and into the storyline. I enjoyed watching them as the story developed.

I really liked Deadly Dunes by E. Michael Helms and highly recommend this book to all readers.

[Please note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.]

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

so what happens when you are handed a case that a sister claims her brother was murdered or was it a suicide .
and what does Ron and Angie Decker and knowing the brother and his sister .
but what happens when both sibiling . turn up dead but not together .
who killed Jake and Jessie and what was their motive or was one motive where as the other a suicide .
and what happens when two more people turn up dead . who did it and why .
you will find B&E & love triangles and murder and mayhem and jealousy and heartbreak and being set up even though they did not do so but who did find out by buying and reading and then stay tuned for more mystery .

[Kait Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An apparent suicide, a missing map, a dead client, Mac’s latest case (and his first as a full-blown PI) takes him from the earliest history of modern Florida to a present day murder in his own backyard. The story grabs you on page one and the twists and turns won’t let go until the end.

I was breathless. Read it in three sittings did not want to put it down and did not want it to end. I was lucky enough to snag an advance copy of this book, and I want to put my name in the hat right now for the next in the series.

[Petula · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a murder, mystery with so many twists and turns it feels like you are caught in a whirlwind.
When Mac is asked to investigate a death that the police ruled as suicide, it starts an avalanche of bodies. There are far too many suspects and motives. There is no way to work out who done it until our author tells us. That is what makes it a good book.
A very good read for when your brain needs exercise.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

“Deadly Dunes” is a fabulous whodunit, written in first person narrative—think Sam Spade or Philip Marlowe—a la classic hardboiled, detective movie style.

Read full review in the 2016 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.