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Combustion
The dry season has hit the Inland Empire of California, depleting the ponds and revealing the muddy grave of Paul Dwyer. From his mansion on the hill, Dwyer lorded over Los Colmas, a small town that he aspired to make big by building mansions for wealthy LA commuters. Some viewed him as a savior, providing construction jobs for locals. Others believed he was ruining their beautiful, close-knit town.But who was angry enough to murder him?
Local cop Ron Starke is overwhelmed by the list of suspects and plagued by a difficult captain who is demanding results. Starke investigates Paul Dwyer's dirty money and handshake deals gone wrong, but the name at the top of the suspect list is the most intriguing, and chilling.
The developer wasn't the only one with secrets; his widow Shelby has kept her own for decades, none more harrowing than the horrific abuse she and her daughter endured at the hands of Dwyer. And none more volatile than what she knows but must hide about Paul's murder.
As the season s wildfires intensify to historic levels and surge towards Los Colmas, Starke must discover who killed Dwyer before all the evidence burnsand the whole town is erased.
Local cop Ron Starke is overwhelmed by the list of suspects and plagued by a difficult captain who is demanding results. Starke investigates Paul Dwyer's dirty money and handshake deals gone wrong, but the name at the top of the suspect list is the most intriguing, and chilling.
The developer wasn't the only one with secrets; his widow Shelby has kept her own for decades, none more harrowing than the horrific abuse she and her daughter endured at the hands of Dwyer. And none more volatile than what she knows but must hide about Paul's murder.
As the season s wildfires intensify to historic levels and surge towards Los Colmas, Starke must discover who killed Dwyer before all the evidence burnsand the whole town is erased.
327 pages, Paperback
Published September 27, 2016
11 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Martin J. Smith
35 books29 followersAuthor Martin J. Smith was editor-in-chief of the monthly Orange Coast magazine from 2007 to 2016, and a former senior editor of the Los Angeles Times Magazine. He wrote three crime novels, "Time Release," "Shadow Image," and the Edgar Award-nominated "Straw Men," before turning his writing energy to nonfiction books, including "Oops: 20 Life Lessons from the Fiascoes That Shaped America," "Poplorica: A Popular History of the Fads, Mavericks, Inventions and Lore That Shaped Modern America" (both with co-author Patrick J. Kiger), and "The Wild Duck Chase," upon which the award-winning documentary film "The Million Dollar Duck" is based. Diversion Books published his fourth series novel, "The Disappeared Girl," in March 2014, and released his first stand-alone suspense-thriller, "Combustion," in September 2016. Globe Pequot published his collection of journalistic essays about the people, places, and peculiarities of the American Southwest, "Mr. Las Vegas Has a Bad Knee," on Nov. 1, 2017. His latest nonfiction book is "Going to Trinidad: A Doctor, a Colorado Town, and Stories from an Unlikely Gender Crossroads," which Bower House and Tantor Media will publish in April 2021. Smith lives in Granby, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
September 6, 2016
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Martin J. Smith, and Diversion Books for providing me with a copy of this book, which allows me to provide you with this review.
In his gripping new crime thriller, Martin J. Smith shows readers how versatile he can be, especially when he turns up the heat! Ron Starke is a longtime resident of Los Colmas, just outside the LA environs. He's idolised his father for as long as he can remember, climbing through the ranks and securing one of two detective spots on the Los Colmas PD. After weeks of handling the missing persons case of Paul Dwyer, a body turns up in some water out by a new residential development. After the forensics proves it to be Dwyer's body, Starke must turn the investigation into one with a homicide focus. With a new Chief of Police, Donna Kerrigan, riding him, Starke must do everything by the book in order to curry her favour, though she appears to have other plans. After approaching the widow, Shelby Dwyer, Starke must try to determine who might have had a motive to kill her husband. Shelby reveals a different side to Paul from the man everyone knew; one who was prone to violence, binge drinking, and chasing down any woman of his choosing. As Starke continues the investigation, the wildfires rage on the horizon, with an evacuation notice potentially days away. Working quickly, Starke learns that Shelby sought to trade in her computer the day after her husband went missing, but has no solid reason for doing so. Her less than casual follow-ups after the body is found leads Starke to wonder if there might be something more than mere technological curiosity on her mind. With a number of people coming forward with less than stellar stories about Paul Dwyer, Starke has many leads he must chase down before swooping in to make an arrest. When fire breaches the city limits, Starke has yet to find the killer, but Shelby has a secret, one that could blow the entire case wide open. Smith crafts this story so well that dedicated readers will blaze through it to discover what lies in the closing chapters.
This is my first experience with Smith and his writing, but it will definitely not be my last. The character development is crisp and offers readers a wonderful look into the lives of many, while not bogging the story down at any point. Ron Starke's detective role is evident, but his back story, which includes a youthful romance with the widow, is neither lost on the reader or labelled as trivial. It weaves its way into the plot and offers a powerful impetus to judge the neutrality and professionalism that Starke can exhibit during the homicide investigation. Other characters work well in conjunction with Starke, including Chief Kerrigan, whose oil and water contrast throughout the story keeps Starke on his toes. A strong narrative coupled with short chapters helps push the story forward and keeps the reader wanting a little more to solve the case on their own. Smith knows all the key building blocks to a successful novel and incorporates them with ease as he places the setting amidst a developing wildfire. These elements can only offer the reader the highest quality action and suspense with Smith's latest novel. Highly recommended to anyone who has a hankering for a top tier crime thriller with a pace that does not wane.
Kudos, Mr. Smith for this great piece of writing. You have found a new fan and I hope to devour the rest of your work as soon as I can locate it.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
In his gripping new crime thriller, Martin J. Smith shows readers how versatile he can be, especially when he turns up the heat! Ron Starke is a longtime resident of Los Colmas, just outside the LA environs. He's idolised his father for as long as he can remember, climbing through the ranks and securing one of two detective spots on the Los Colmas PD. After weeks of handling the missing persons case of Paul Dwyer, a body turns up in some water out by a new residential development. After the forensics proves it to be Dwyer's body, Starke must turn the investigation into one with a homicide focus. With a new Chief of Police, Donna Kerrigan, riding him, Starke must do everything by the book in order to curry her favour, though she appears to have other plans. After approaching the widow, Shelby Dwyer, Starke must try to determine who might have had a motive to kill her husband. Shelby reveals a different side to Paul from the man everyone knew; one who was prone to violence, binge drinking, and chasing down any woman of his choosing. As Starke continues the investigation, the wildfires rage on the horizon, with an evacuation notice potentially days away. Working quickly, Starke learns that Shelby sought to trade in her computer the day after her husband went missing, but has no solid reason for doing so. Her less than casual follow-ups after the body is found leads Starke to wonder if there might be something more than mere technological curiosity on her mind. With a number of people coming forward with less than stellar stories about Paul Dwyer, Starke has many leads he must chase down before swooping in to make an arrest. When fire breaches the city limits, Starke has yet to find the killer, but Shelby has a secret, one that could blow the entire case wide open. Smith crafts this story so well that dedicated readers will blaze through it to discover what lies in the closing chapters.
This is my first experience with Smith and his writing, but it will definitely not be my last. The character development is crisp and offers readers a wonderful look into the lives of many, while not bogging the story down at any point. Ron Starke's detective role is evident, but his back story, which includes a youthful romance with the widow, is neither lost on the reader or labelled as trivial. It weaves its way into the plot and offers a powerful impetus to judge the neutrality and professionalism that Starke can exhibit during the homicide investigation. Other characters work well in conjunction with Starke, including Chief Kerrigan, whose oil and water contrast throughout the story keeps Starke on his toes. A strong narrative coupled with short chapters helps push the story forward and keeps the reader wanting a little more to solve the case on their own. Smith knows all the key building blocks to a successful novel and incorporates them with ease as he places the setting amidst a developing wildfire. These elements can only offer the reader the highest quality action and suspense with Smith's latest novel. Highly recommended to anyone who has a hankering for a top tier crime thriller with a pace that does not wane.
Kudos, Mr. Smith for this great piece of writing. You have found a new fan and I hope to devour the rest of your work as soon as I can locate it.
Like/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 23, 2016
Set against the backdrop of a developing wildfire in a fictional small Californian town, detective Ron Starke has to find the murderer of Paul Dwyer, a local property developer, whose tortured body is discovered weeks after he was reported missing by his wife Shelby. Shared history between Starke and the widow, and a strained working relationship with his new boss, Donna Kerrigan, don't make life any easier for Starke as the list of suspects in the murder investigation keeps growing.
This was quite a quick read, but nevertheless provided solid character development and intricate plotting as the writing was to the point without any unnecessary padding. Additionally, the very short chapters kept persuading me to read 'just one more'. Starke's relationship with his father who has early-onset Alzheimer's and his dealings with a young computer expert who helps him along in the investigation made Ron Starke a very likable character who I would love to see in future books. The plot was really intriguing as the reader was led down various paths for potential explanations why anybody would want a seemingly charitable businessman, husband, and father dead. A very enjoyable read which was fast-paced and with a few nice twists. I would definitely read more books by this author who was new to me.
The publisher, Diversion Books, invited me to read this book and provided a free copy. This is my unbiased and honest review.
This was quite a quick read, but nevertheless provided solid character development and intricate plotting as the writing was to the point without any unnecessary padding. Additionally, the very short chapters kept persuading me to read 'just one more'. Starke's relationship with his father who has early-onset Alzheimer's and his dealings with a young computer expert who helps him along in the investigation made Ron Starke a very likable character who I would love to see in future books. The plot was really intriguing as the reader was led down various paths for potential explanations why anybody would want a seemingly charitable businessman, husband, and father dead. A very enjoyable read which was fast-paced and with a few nice twists. I would definitely read more books by this author who was new to me.
The publisher, Diversion Books, invited me to read this book and provided a free copy. This is my unbiased and honest review.
October 5, 2016
A good basic mystery. And that's a good thing. It seems lately I've been reading all these books with multiple story lines and time frames. So it's nice to be reading a straightforward police procedural with well defined characters. I like Ron Starke, the detective at the heart of this novel. He's got a new boss, who's second guessing his actions. His father has early onset Alzheimer's and barely knows who he is. He lives and works in a small town, so everyone is known to him, including the wife of the murder victim.
The storyline alternates between Starke and Shelby, the widow. Her late husband, a builder of McMansions, was a drunk, a womanizer and abusive to wife and daughter. He also had plenty of enemies.
This one moves quickly. Just enough detail to set the time and place without overwhelming you. One part doesn't ring true. As a dog mother, I can't believe that no matter what the circumstances, you wouldn't realize your dog was missing right away.
I give the author kudos for a brave ending. But the rationale of the killer didn't ring true.
My thanks to netgalley and Diversion Books for an advance review copy.
September 6, 2016
"Starke had a flickering thought: TV news would be all over the story, and Paul Dwyer's family shouldn't find out that way. While he was no fan of Shelby Dwyer, the new widow deserved better. He took a long pull, certain the delay was spiking the blood pressure of a woman whose smile he had yet to see during her first few months as his boss. She was a puzzle."....
Los Colmas, CA has a murder in their midst. Cop Ron Starke, has his hands full with a list of suspects, and motives. The body of Paul Dwyer, a local real estate developer,has been found in the dried up pond of some developing property.
The widow, Shelby, has her own secrets. Paul wasn't what he appeared to be to everyone else. Not everyone thought Paul's developing the area was in the best interest of the town either. Was he killed by someone he angered with his work? Was it someone closer?
Can Ron Starke appease his difficult boss and get the answers he is looking for? An out of control wildfire may burn the town to the ground, and there may not be anything left to investigate. Small towns and close relationships often help keep secrets. The closer Ron gets to the truth the harder his life is going to become.
This mystery was well written, great characters and an intriguing read. I loved the relationship he has with his dad. Not a typical situation, but handled with such love. A few well placed surprises that will keep you fully engaged until the end.
Thank you Martin J.Smith, Netgalley, and Diversion Books
Los Colmas, CA has a murder in their midst. Cop Ron Starke, has his hands full with a list of suspects, and motives. The body of Paul Dwyer, a local real estate developer,has been found in the dried up pond of some developing property.
The widow, Shelby, has her own secrets. Paul wasn't what he appeared to be to everyone else. Not everyone thought Paul's developing the area was in the best interest of the town either. Was he killed by someone he angered with his work? Was it someone closer?
Can Ron Starke appease his difficult boss and get the answers he is looking for? An out of control wildfire may burn the town to the ground, and there may not be anything left to investigate. Small towns and close relationships often help keep secrets. The closer Ron gets to the truth the harder his life is going to become.
This mystery was well written, great characters and an intriguing read. I loved the relationship he has with his dad. Not a typical situation, but handled with such love. A few well placed surprises that will keep you fully engaged until the end.
Thank you Martin J.Smith, Netgalley, and Diversion Books
September 30, 2016
Paul Dwyer is dead, a floater that has only been found because his construction business diverted the water from the place where his body is dumped, and it dries up in the Southwestern desert heat, leaving his body exposed to the world. I was lucky to be able to read this book early, thanks to an invitation from Net Galley and Diversion Publishing, in exchange for this honest review. I am overjoyed to rate it five stars. I knew nothing at all about either Smith or Diversion, but it turned out to be a risk that worked out in my favor and the author’s.
Our detective is Ron Starke, a single man whose father has Alzheimer’s. The reader cannot help but warm to him as we see him appear in his father’s room, hamburgers in a paper bag, prepared to patiently have the same conversation with his dad that he had with him several times yesterday and most likely will have tomorrow too.
Shelby Dwyer, the victim’s widow, is a very wealthy woman now. She isn’t sorry that he’s gone, and neither is their teenage daughter Chloe. Dwyer was a violent, ugly man in private, regardless of the shine he demonstrated publicly. Naturally, Shelby is the chief suspect, a thing made more difficult by the fact that she was Starke’s girlfriend a decade ago, when they were in high school. But it’s a small town, a tiny exurb of Los Angeles, and everyone really does know everyone, aside from Starke’s supervisor, Kerrigan, a recent transplant from the big city. To make matters even more awkward, Starke had been considered a shoo-in for the job Kerrigan now occupies, and Kerrigan knows it.
He has a feeling that his new boss is gunning for him.
The story is told from alternate points of view, and Smith creates whiplash tension by shifting between them at key points. Character development is solid, and it makes me wonder about the possibility of a series emerging from this debut.
Shelby may be rich now, but she is in tremendous personal jeopardy. All of the lonely nights spent holed up in the study, cruising online for connections she can’t find at home, have led her to expose herself in a horrifying way. And as she is forced to confess to Chloe about the unwise things she has said to another visitor in a chat room, a person using the handle LoveSick, and despite the horror of the moment I had to smile, as the traditional tables are turned and 17 year old Chloe has to tell her mother that you should never, never provide a stranger with personal details.
Smith’s debut is hot as the desert sun, a page turner that will live in your head after the last page has turned. Those that know me are aware I finish an average of three titles weekly for review, and so months or even weeks later if I am contacted by the writer’s publicist, I sometimes have to flip back through my records to remind myself…wait, this is which book again? And this is especially true of mysteries, which no matter how unique, tend to share a certain sameness. But in this case, that didn’t happen. The settings are so resonant, the characters so well sculpted that I felt as if I were an unseen guest among them.
It’s for sale today, and I highly recommend that you read it.
Our detective is Ron Starke, a single man whose father has Alzheimer’s. The reader cannot help but warm to him as we see him appear in his father’s room, hamburgers in a paper bag, prepared to patiently have the same conversation with his dad that he had with him several times yesterday and most likely will have tomorrow too.
Shelby Dwyer, the victim’s widow, is a very wealthy woman now. She isn’t sorry that he’s gone, and neither is their teenage daughter Chloe. Dwyer was a violent, ugly man in private, regardless of the shine he demonstrated publicly. Naturally, Shelby is the chief suspect, a thing made more difficult by the fact that she was Starke’s girlfriend a decade ago, when they were in high school. But it’s a small town, a tiny exurb of Los Angeles, and everyone really does know everyone, aside from Starke’s supervisor, Kerrigan, a recent transplant from the big city. To make matters even more awkward, Starke had been considered a shoo-in for the job Kerrigan now occupies, and Kerrigan knows it.
He has a feeling that his new boss is gunning for him.
The story is told from alternate points of view, and Smith creates whiplash tension by shifting between them at key points. Character development is solid, and it makes me wonder about the possibility of a series emerging from this debut.
Shelby may be rich now, but she is in tremendous personal jeopardy. All of the lonely nights spent holed up in the study, cruising online for connections she can’t find at home, have led her to expose herself in a horrifying way. And as she is forced to confess to Chloe about the unwise things she has said to another visitor in a chat room, a person using the handle LoveSick, and despite the horror of the moment I had to smile, as the traditional tables are turned and 17 year old Chloe has to tell her mother that you should never, never provide a stranger with personal details.
Smith’s debut is hot as the desert sun, a page turner that will live in your head after the last page has turned. Those that know me are aware I finish an average of three titles weekly for review, and so months or even weeks later if I am contacted by the writer’s publicist, I sometimes have to flip back through my records to remind myself…wait, this is which book again? And this is especially true of mysteries, which no matter how unique, tend to share a certain sameness. But in this case, that didn’t happen. The settings are so resonant, the characters so well sculpted that I felt as if I were an unseen guest among them.
It’s for sale today, and I highly recommend that you read it.
August 21, 2016
I would like to thank Netgalley and Diversion Books for an advance copy of Combustion, a police procedural set in the fictional town of Los Colmas, California.
Ron Starke, senior detective in the small Los Colmas force, has been investigating the disappearance of Paul Dwyer, a local property developer, when a body is found in a drying out pond. It is confirmed as Paul Dwyer but Ron's investigation is hampered on all fronts - the widow, Shelby, knows more than she is saying and newly appointed Chief Kerrigan does her best to stick her oar in with unhelpful or naïve (take your pick) lines of investigation.
Combustion is the straightforward investigation of a murder set against the backdrop of looming forest fires. There is no subplot so it is fairly short and to the point. It is also quite a simple read as I guessed the perpetrator almost immediately and all that was left was the why.
I think this is a novel which could have done with some fleshing out. More could have been done with the forensic computer aspects, Shelby's actions and Ron's investigation because as it is it all just falls, serendipitously, into his lap.
Combustion is not a bad novel and will appeal to many readers, unfortunately it just wasn't complicated enough to hold my attention and get me involved.
Ron Starke, senior detective in the small Los Colmas force, has been investigating the disappearance of Paul Dwyer, a local property developer, when a body is found in a drying out pond. It is confirmed as Paul Dwyer but Ron's investigation is hampered on all fronts - the widow, Shelby, knows more than she is saying and newly appointed Chief Kerrigan does her best to stick her oar in with unhelpful or naïve (take your pick) lines of investigation.
Combustion is the straightforward investigation of a murder set against the backdrop of looming forest fires. There is no subplot so it is fairly short and to the point. It is also quite a simple read as I guessed the perpetrator almost immediately and all that was left was the why.
I think this is a novel which could have done with some fleshing out. More could have been done with the forensic computer aspects, Shelby's actions and Ron's investigation because as it is it all just falls, serendipitously, into his lap.
Combustion is not a bad novel and will appeal to many readers, unfortunately it just wasn't complicated enough to hold my attention and get me involved.
December 20, 2016
I received this arc from Netgalley.
What a ride! Entertaining from beginning to end. It ends with a twist that you won't see coming. Definitely recommended
What a ride! Entertaining from beginning to end. It ends with a twist that you won't see coming. Definitely recommended
April 25, 2018
This was a great mystery, thriller, fast paced and really hard to put down until the shocking end. I loved the characters, great and different story with a raging wildfire in the background! Highly recommend this book.
September 12, 2016
This book was absolutely spell-binding, and one of the best I've read in a very long time. The characters were exquisitely drawn, each and every one, and the dialog spot-on. And the plot! Devious, complex, engrossing and diabolical. Just brilliant.
The central characters are Detective Ron Starke, Chief of Police Donna Kerrigan, and the wealthy wife of a real estate magnate, Shelby Dwyer. When Paul Dwyer, the husband, is reported missing by his wife, suspicions and rumors run wild. No trace is found of Paul until weeks later, when hikers find Paul's body near the pinnacle of a new Dwyer mini-mansion housing development in the hills of San Bernadino County, California. It appears the victim was tortured before being shot in the head and unceremoniously dumped in a shallow pond. From there, the tension explodes exponentially.
Starke is assigned to investigate, but does so with some trepidation; he and the widow's wife were involved in a long-ago relationship, and for Starke, the wounds were not completely healed. When all indications point to Shelby as the likely suspect in the killing, Starke is committed to finding out the truth, no matter the circumstances. What he begins to unearth leads him down a twisted path of deception, unrequited love, pure evil, and destroyed innocence. It seems everyone involved -- from the victim to the Police Chief -- is hiding secrets more cunning and deadly than anyone imagined. The ending will blow your socks off.
This book was so well-plotted and so engrossing that I read it in one sitting; I just couldn't walk away without knowing what was going to happen next. Rarely have I been so impressed with an author's ability to craft an intelligent, spine-tingling story; this is a book that is most definitely a "must read". If I could give this book 10 stars, I would do so in an instant. Highly recommended!
*** This book was provided to me for free by the author and/or the publisher, through NetGalley, as an ARC in return for my honest review. ***
The central characters are Detective Ron Starke, Chief of Police Donna Kerrigan, and the wealthy wife of a real estate magnate, Shelby Dwyer. When Paul Dwyer, the husband, is reported missing by his wife, suspicions and rumors run wild. No trace is found of Paul until weeks later, when hikers find Paul's body near the pinnacle of a new Dwyer mini-mansion housing development in the hills of San Bernadino County, California. It appears the victim was tortured before being shot in the head and unceremoniously dumped in a shallow pond. From there, the tension explodes exponentially.
Starke is assigned to investigate, but does so with some trepidation; he and the widow's wife were involved in a long-ago relationship, and for Starke, the wounds were not completely healed. When all indications point to Shelby as the likely suspect in the killing, Starke is committed to finding out the truth, no matter the circumstances. What he begins to unearth leads him down a twisted path of deception, unrequited love, pure evil, and destroyed innocence. It seems everyone involved -- from the victim to the Police Chief -- is hiding secrets more cunning and deadly than anyone imagined. The ending will blow your socks off.
This book was so well-plotted and so engrossing that I read it in one sitting; I just couldn't walk away without knowing what was going to happen next. Rarely have I been so impressed with an author's ability to craft an intelligent, spine-tingling story; this is a book that is most definitely a "must read". If I could give this book 10 stars, I would do so in an instant. Highly recommended!
*** This book was provided to me for free by the author and/or the publisher, through NetGalley, as an ARC in return for my honest review. ***
September 6, 2016
COMBUSTION, STORY LINE:
In Combustion, Martin J. Smith has crafted a top drawer murder crime mystery which pulls the reader into this intriguing story-line. Lives collide, mysteries solved, and secrets revealed as a fire storm combust in Los Colmas. Ron Starke followed in his father's footsteps of law enforcement in the Inland Empire of California, Los Colmas. A dedicated officer, passed over for promotion to Chief, Ron loves his job.
It is the dry season in California and fires are rampaging. Meanwhile, the lack of rain has revealed the under water grave of missing Paul Dwyer, wealthy construction magnate. Dwyer, super wealthy, abusive, obnoxious, and conceited, has met a very bad end. As a result, Ron Starke will find a long list of suspects including the grieving widow, Shelby. Ron will find secrets and mysteries abounds in this investigation. With a new Chief of Police on duty, Ron has his hands full ferreting out the murderer.
Come along for a first-rate journey through mystery, secrets, and murder in sunny California.
COMBUSTION, CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:
First I must say, this book is a thrill ride from beginning to end. Author Martin J. Smith begins on a high note and ends the story on an even higher one. The plots just keep coming in this full-bodied story-line. As a result, you will find mystery and deep dark secrets.
Secondly, Author Martin J. Smith's character development was first-rate as we follow all the suspects. Each had reason to want Dwyer dead, including his wife and teenage daughter. Smith shows two sides of Dwyer, the abusive conceited wealthy "must have my way" man; the other, the benefactor of charities and community. Smith aptly portrayed each person has a good and bad side to their personality. Furthermore, his characterization of Ron was realistic as he depicts him with faults and issues along with his investigative skills.
Also, Mr. Smith masterfully crafted the ending of Combustion; a killer revelation which left me saying, "wow, that I did not expect"! Do not cheat and read the ending first, do yourself a favor and savor every page until the combustive end.
In concluding the review of Combustion, I found this book expertly written with an intriguing story-line which will hold the reader's attention. The pace of the book was fast with a clear writing style. Mr. Smith did not need to resort to fluff to fill the pages of his story.
COMBUSTION, RECOMMENDATION: 5 STARS
In conclusion, I do not hesitate to give this book 5 stars. It will appeal to anyone that enjoys a solid well-written murder mystery.
FINAL NOTE; I received this book from the author and Netgalley in return for an honest book review. Book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion; consequently, book reviews on line and on my blog, are my opinion.
In Combustion, Martin J. Smith has crafted a top drawer murder crime mystery which pulls the reader into this intriguing story-line. Lives collide, mysteries solved, and secrets revealed as a fire storm combust in Los Colmas. Ron Starke followed in his father's footsteps of law enforcement in the Inland Empire of California, Los Colmas. A dedicated officer, passed over for promotion to Chief, Ron loves his job.
It is the dry season in California and fires are rampaging. Meanwhile, the lack of rain has revealed the under water grave of missing Paul Dwyer, wealthy construction magnate. Dwyer, super wealthy, abusive, obnoxious, and conceited, has met a very bad end. As a result, Ron Starke will find a long list of suspects including the grieving widow, Shelby. Ron will find secrets and mysteries abounds in this investigation. With a new Chief of Police on duty, Ron has his hands full ferreting out the murderer.
Come along for a first-rate journey through mystery, secrets, and murder in sunny California.
COMBUSTION, CHARACTERS, PLOTTING, AND DEVELOPMENT:
First I must say, this book is a thrill ride from beginning to end. Author Martin J. Smith begins on a high note and ends the story on an even higher one. The plots just keep coming in this full-bodied story-line. As a result, you will find mystery and deep dark secrets.
Secondly, Author Martin J. Smith's character development was first-rate as we follow all the suspects. Each had reason to want Dwyer dead, including his wife and teenage daughter. Smith shows two sides of Dwyer, the abusive conceited wealthy "must have my way" man; the other, the benefactor of charities and community. Smith aptly portrayed each person has a good and bad side to their personality. Furthermore, his characterization of Ron was realistic as he depicts him with faults and issues along with his investigative skills.
Also, Mr. Smith masterfully crafted the ending of Combustion; a killer revelation which left me saying, "wow, that I did not expect"! Do not cheat and read the ending first, do yourself a favor and savor every page until the combustive end.
In concluding the review of Combustion, I found this book expertly written with an intriguing story-line which will hold the reader's attention. The pace of the book was fast with a clear writing style. Mr. Smith did not need to resort to fluff to fill the pages of his story.
COMBUSTION, RECOMMENDATION: 5 STARS
In conclusion, I do not hesitate to give this book 5 stars. It will appeal to anyone that enjoys a solid well-written murder mystery.
FINAL NOTE; I received this book from the author and Netgalley in return for an honest book review. Book reviews of any novel are dependent on the book review author’s opinion; consequently, book reviews on line and on my blog, are my opinion.
September 15, 2016
Really enjoyed Combustion. The protagonist, Detective Ron Starke, is well drawn, believable, and a character I would follow in future reads. The main additional characters, Shelby Dwyer, her husband and murder victim Paul Dwyer, and Starkes boss Donna Kerrigan round out the story line. They are each real characters, even the dead man has a story behind him. Even though the town Los Colman is fictional there is still the believability in its city limits. Anyone who has driven in the suburbs of Los Angeles has seen Los Colmas.
The revealing of details is slow, yet deliberate. Chasing down leads that seem to go nowhere. Characters that appear for brief moments to offer up threads of information give the investigation a sense of reality. Add to this the moments of tension between Kerrigan and Starke, the shared history of Starke and Shelby Dwyer and the stage is set.
The one area that was extraneous for me was the wildfire that is descending towards Los Colmas. This is a very minor thing that doesn't distract from the story but doesn't add much either.
I look forward to new books featuring Ron Starke and looking for other reads by Martin J Smith.
My thanks to NetGalley, Diversion Publishing, and Martin J Smith for my ARC in exchange for this honest review.
The revealing of details is slow, yet deliberate. Chasing down leads that seem to go nowhere. Characters that appear for brief moments to offer up threads of information give the investigation a sense of reality. Add to this the moments of tension between Kerrigan and Starke, the shared history of Starke and Shelby Dwyer and the stage is set.
The one area that was extraneous for me was the wildfire that is descending towards Los Colmas. This is a very minor thing that doesn't distract from the story but doesn't add much either.
I look forward to new books featuring Ron Starke and looking for other reads by Martin J Smith.
My thanks to NetGalley, Diversion Publishing, and Martin J Smith for my ARC in exchange for this honest review.
September 27, 2016
The Santa Ana winds blow and the fires start...
This was an excellent murder mystery based in the fictitious southern California town of Los Colmas.
Detective Ron Starke has a lot on his plate right now. His wife killed herself two years ago with no explanation. His Dad, who had also been a cop, has early-onset Alzheimer's disease and lives in a care facility. And they brought a woman in from outside the area to be Police Chief - a job he hoped/expected to get.
This is a story about murder and small towns and marriages and most of all about secrets.
When the body of the top land developer in the region is found at the bottom of a pond, Starke is assigned the case. And realizes he knows the man's wife from long ago.
I like the way the author laid out the story, developed the characters and especially liked the twist at the end. This was a fast-paced read and I recommend it highly.
I received this book from Diversion Books through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
This was an excellent murder mystery based in the fictitious southern California town of Los Colmas.
Detective Ron Starke has a lot on his plate right now. His wife killed herself two years ago with no explanation. His Dad, who had also been a cop, has early-onset Alzheimer's disease and lives in a care facility. And they brought a woman in from outside the area to be Police Chief - a job he hoped/expected to get.
This is a story about murder and small towns and marriages and most of all about secrets.
When the body of the top land developer in the region is found at the bottom of a pond, Starke is assigned the case. And realizes he knows the man's wife from long ago.
I like the way the author laid out the story, developed the characters and especially liked the twist at the end. This was a fast-paced read and I recommend it highly.
I received this book from Diversion Books through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
September 26, 2016
I received a free advance e-copy of this book by invitation from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Be careful what you wish for. This is a suspense filled, dark psychological thriller that is full of twists and turns. The action never stops. I couldn’t put it down. A body is found in a pond that is drying up. The victim is a missing person that has been murdered. The senior detective has to deal with a difficult police chief while investigating the crime. Martin J. Smith adds more drama to the story with an approaching out of control wildfire that may destroy the entire city and a real twist at the end when the identity of the killer is revealed. ‘Combustion’ is an intense and well-written novel with an amazing plot. The characters are well developed. This is a keeper and well worth the read. I look forward to reading more from Martin J. Smith.
September 19, 2016
No one seemed very worried about the disappearance of Paul Dwyer. The finding of his dead body in a dried up watering hole caused more consternation. Being set in southern California in the summer, of course a wildfire burned nearby while the police tried to track down the killer. Odd clues, mostly centering around computers, both the one tied around Paul's neck and the one his wife traded in the day after he disappeared, kept popping up and it was difficult to know which ones were helpful and which ones were there to throw off the reader. The writing was well done and I was completely startled when I realized the "who" and the "why." Until the end, I didn't feel like the book had a grip on me; yet, I noticed I really didn't want to put it down either!
A preview copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Diversion Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
A preview copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Diversion Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2016
A well written complex plot of treachery, preying on an emotional wife of an abusive power crazed man who meets his end in a brutal manner. Swept up in this web of deceit is an innocent teenager. Add to all the complications a police officer who knows the victim and works for the betrayer. Add to all this one of the destructive wild fires too often in the news out of California. Dogged detective work by the police officer against the barriers thrown up by the very person he works under. The story weaves its way through tragedy, terror, deception, death and destruction. In the end, justice?
August 31, 2016
Police detective Ron Starke - Paul Dwyer murdered body found - Shelby Dwyer wife and former love interest to Ron Starke. Peaks behind the curtain are reveled through the evidence trail tracked by Starke. Interesting characters intertwine who all seem to be hiding clues. Would have liked a bit more about Chloe Dwyer (Paul's daughter) and her friend Mario Esparza. Good twists and turns along with everything tied up at the end. Thanks to Diversion and author via NetGalley for the opportunity to give an honest review.
September 8, 2016
*** I received an advanced e-copy from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Paul Dwyer was murdered and the list of people who might want him dead keeps getting longer. Local Cop Ron Starke is the one investigating and he has a history with the widow. On top of that, there is a wildfire burning out of control and the home of the deceased is right in it's path. This book is fast paced and full of suspense. You won't want to put it down until the killer is discovered and justice is served. Definitely a must-read!
Paul Dwyer was murdered and the list of people who might want him dead keeps getting longer. Local Cop Ron Starke is the one investigating and he has a history with the widow. On top of that, there is a wildfire burning out of control and the home of the deceased is right in it's path. This book is fast paced and full of suspense. You won't want to put it down until the killer is discovered and justice is served. Definitely a must-read!
September 28, 2016
This is a quick read that leaves the reader wanting more. The suspense grows throughout the story, and the ending is a real kicker. The characters were very realistic, and the level of detail was perfect for this type of story. The interactions between the characters make this a truly outstanding read. It is part police procedural, part character study, and part action adventure. The ending comes as a wild brush fire is blown into an area of fine homes, and the flames provide a backdrop for the action to play out.
September 28, 2016
A good novel but it did lack some depth of characters and parts of the story I felt could have been expanded . A high profile business man is found murdered but what part does his wife play in it . I found the book didn't grip me till towards the end , a 3.5 stars read by rounded it to 4 as I did find it an easy enjoyable one . My thanks to the publishers and netgally for my arc in exchange for an honest review
September 28, 2016
Remarkable story! Full of mystery and great suspense, I could not put this book down!
Great writing, excellent characterization, impressive & intricately weaved plot, secrets, lies, lust, and murder; this story has it all. The story draws you in from the start and keeps you guessing until the end. A breathtaking crime thriller you don’t want to miss.
Great writing, excellent characterization, impressive & intricately weaved plot, secrets, lies, lust, and murder; this story has it all. The story draws you in from the start and keeps you guessing until the end. A breathtaking crime thriller you don’t want to miss.
September 6, 2016
Combustion is an interesting mystery story by Martin J. Smith. Some surprises along with some edge of your seat moments. Looking forward to more by this author, and I hope the main character is in the next story. I was given a copy to review.
September 11, 2016
Excellent, a fast paced thriller, that will keep you interested from being to end.
November 7, 2016
I guess it’s some kind of progress to see the growth in the number of crime novels and television series that give hardworking male police detectives a woman boss. And, perhaps it reflects even more progress that these female supervisors are allowed to have flaws, unlike the ever-understanding “Ma’am” in the Inspector Lewis shows.
In Martin J. Smith’s new police procedural, Detective Ron Starke works for the police department in the city of Los Colmas, in giant San Bernardino County, California’s Inland Empire. His new chief—grabbing a job he expected would be his—is Donna Kerrigan, recently divorced from a rich husband and an inveterate micromanager, who Starke thinks has “the people skills of a rattlesnake.”
Starke is a likeable detective, diligently trying to unravel what befell wealthy property developer Paul Dwyer. Dwyer’s body was found at the bottom of a rapidly evaporating pond adjacent to his most recent upscale housing development. He had a bullet in his brain and evidence suggested he’d been tortured. Starke has a history with the widowed Mrs. Dwyer, the magnate’s second wife, that goes back to high school and a brief romance.
When he interviews Shelby Dwyer and her daughter Chloe in their magnificent home, it’s quite a contrast to his down-market residence above the Suds-Your-Duds laundromat. Any number of people turn up as serviceable murder suspects. In fact, there may be too large a stack of possibilities, because the motives of them all can’t be developed to the extent that would make them truly credible.
There’s even a whiff of DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) concern about money-laundering for the Sinaloa drug cartel. This possibility prompted a couple of authorial essays about how the cartels work—interesting stuff that you might want to know about, but not necessary to the plot of this book, especially since that line of inquiry soon evaporates like the water in Dwyer’s containment pond.
Because this is a multiple point-of-view novel, you know things Starke does not. You know Shelby has sought relief from her unhappy marriage online, establishing a chatroom relationship with someone who calls himself LoveSick—ever supportive, ever kind, ever romantic. But who is he, really? Shelby has every urgent 21st century reason for wanting to know. I especially enjoyed Smith’s descriptions of the computer geeks Starke eventually deals with, as he tracks down Shelby’s missing hard drive. Those guys were entertainingly totally on their own wavelength—broadband, of course.
The blind forces of nature help bring matters to a head. A massive wildfire, driven by the Santa Ana winds, is bearing down on Los Colmas and the Dwyer development. In the middle of that fiery maelstrom, Smith’s protagonists face their ultimate challenges.
The fire proves unequivocally that, no matter how “in control” you think you are, some things are beyond you. I wish the author hadn’t overstuffed the narrative with tantalizing suspects and a couple of brief, early scenes with Starke’s ailing father, in care because of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. He was an interesting character and that was a relationship worth developing. Sequels?
In Martin J. Smith’s new police procedural, Detective Ron Starke works for the police department in the city of Los Colmas, in giant San Bernardino County, California’s Inland Empire. His new chief—grabbing a job he expected would be his—is Donna Kerrigan, recently divorced from a rich husband and an inveterate micromanager, who Starke thinks has “the people skills of a rattlesnake.”
Starke is a likeable detective, diligently trying to unravel what befell wealthy property developer Paul Dwyer. Dwyer’s body was found at the bottom of a rapidly evaporating pond adjacent to his most recent upscale housing development. He had a bullet in his brain and evidence suggested he’d been tortured. Starke has a history with the widowed Mrs. Dwyer, the magnate’s second wife, that goes back to high school and a brief romance.
When he interviews Shelby Dwyer and her daughter Chloe in their magnificent home, it’s quite a contrast to his down-market residence above the Suds-Your-Duds laundromat. Any number of people turn up as serviceable murder suspects. In fact, there may be too large a stack of possibilities, because the motives of them all can’t be developed to the extent that would make them truly credible.
There’s even a whiff of DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) concern about money-laundering for the Sinaloa drug cartel. This possibility prompted a couple of authorial essays about how the cartels work—interesting stuff that you might want to know about, but not necessary to the plot of this book, especially since that line of inquiry soon evaporates like the water in Dwyer’s containment pond.
Because this is a multiple point-of-view novel, you know things Starke does not. You know Shelby has sought relief from her unhappy marriage online, establishing a chatroom relationship with someone who calls himself LoveSick—ever supportive, ever kind, ever romantic. But who is he, really? Shelby has every urgent 21st century reason for wanting to know. I especially enjoyed Smith’s descriptions of the computer geeks Starke eventually deals with, as he tracks down Shelby’s missing hard drive. Those guys were entertainingly totally on their own wavelength—broadband, of course.
The blind forces of nature help bring matters to a head. A massive wildfire, driven by the Santa Ana winds, is bearing down on Los Colmas and the Dwyer development. In the middle of that fiery maelstrom, Smith’s protagonists face their ultimate challenges.
The fire proves unequivocally that, no matter how “in control” you think you are, some things are beyond you. I wish the author hadn’t overstuffed the narrative with tantalizing suspects and a couple of brief, early scenes with Starke’s ailing father, in care because of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. He was an interesting character and that was a relationship worth developing. Sequels?
May 11, 2017
Diversion Publishing and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Combustion. This is my honest opinion of the book.
Investigating a brutal murder can lead the police far and wide from their original assumptions. The murder of Paul Dwyer was no different, as police officer Ron Starke was soon to discover. Having a prior connection to the victim's wife, Ron was surprised to find her less than cooperative. Between a boss with a vendetta and the case slowly gaining ground, will Ron be able to solve the crime before time runs out? Will a threat to the small town of Los Colmas destroy the evidence that Ron needs?
I am a big fan of police procedural thrillers, but I am finding it difficult as of late to enjoy them fully. It seems that authors have been giving their main characters a good amount of character flaws and this book is no exception. I wish that the focus was squarely on the case at hand, instead of split between the personal lives of the police and the investigation. That being said, I found Combustion to be very readable and a great way to pass an afternoon. I would read more by this author in the future and would recommend Combustion to readers who enjoy police procedural thrillers.
Investigating a brutal murder can lead the police far and wide from their original assumptions. The murder of Paul Dwyer was no different, as police officer Ron Starke was soon to discover. Having a prior connection to the victim's wife, Ron was surprised to find her less than cooperative. Between a boss with a vendetta and the case slowly gaining ground, will Ron be able to solve the crime before time runs out? Will a threat to the small town of Los Colmas destroy the evidence that Ron needs?
I am a big fan of police procedural thrillers, but I am finding it difficult as of late to enjoy them fully. It seems that authors have been giving their main characters a good amount of character flaws and this book is no exception. I wish that the focus was squarely on the case at hand, instead of split between the personal lives of the police and the investigation. That being said, I found Combustion to be very readable and a great way to pass an afternoon. I would read more by this author in the future and would recommend Combustion to readers who enjoy police procedural thrillers.
June 25, 2017
This is my first book by Marin J Smith and it won't be my last. I started this book about 6 months ago and life got completely crazy and I didn't have time to really read. When that happens, I usually have to start a book over or I get bored because I can't read on a normal basis. That was not the case with this book, which means that if I was able to read at normal pace, I would have been through it very quickly!! It has a few twists and turns and is all around a great mystery! If you love mysteries, thrillers or police investigation type books, I highly recommend this one!
Combustion is set in a small town in southern California, where Ron Starke has lived his whole life and worked his way up the police ranks. One of the locals goes missing and his body is found a few weeks later. While Starke is investigating, there is a huge wildfire on the brink of the town and he is dealing with a new boss who doesn't like his relationship with the victim's wife. It turns out that there are lots of people who wanted the victim dead and leads Starke on wild goose chase right up until the very end.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Diversion Books for the review copy!
Combustion is set in a small town in southern California, where Ron Starke has lived his whole life and worked his way up the police ranks. One of the locals goes missing and his body is found a few weeks later. While Starke is investigating, there is a huge wildfire on the brink of the town and he is dealing with a new boss who doesn't like his relationship with the victim's wife. It turns out that there are lots of people who wanted the victim dead and leads Starke on wild goose chase right up until the very end.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Diversion Books for the review copy!
November 30, 2018
I couldn't put it down. I will not spoil the end, but it was a surprise for sure.
The fire: Combustion indeed! Great title for the book. The Southern California setting after our recent devastation added to my sense of "drama," and added to the mounting tension. Each turn of the page mirrored the impending doom for the characters in this who-dun-it thriller with some 'uncomfortable' scenes. I had to close my eyes a couple of times. :) The closing scenes kept me up late... as in OMG. Really!?!?
On character: I was especially intrigued by how each character was so clearly delineated with deftly shifting POVs to let us know them (at least I thought I did) enough to keep me turning pages. Even the minor characters had noteworthy aspects that without stealing scenes, moved the story along nicely.
Mostly, I felt that the author was in control all the time. I need to read a few more books by Martin J. Smith now.
P.S. Our book club is reading this book in January, so it will be great to see how everyone else likes it, too.
November 29, 2016
The title didn't lie. This book is combustable! Detective Ron Starke is our leading man. His life is having upheaval. His Dad has Alzheimers. His wife committed suicide, which was more than enough stress and not something I'm sure I totally believe. Someone else took the job position he was a shoe-in for getting. When things could just not get worse, he has to deal with a death. A floating body from a now drained pond. Bless him, Ron's life is overwhelming and if it was warm before, now it is about to get hot!
So, why is Paul Dwyer dead? His wife isn't heartbroken, and who all else has motive and cause? Off we go, a crime to solve and a life try to hold together. Top all that off with the fires ranging out of control in the area, and oh yeah.. it's combustion at it's finest.
My copy came from Net Galley. I wasn't required to leave a review, I wanted to, thus I did. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
So, why is Paul Dwyer dead? His wife isn't heartbroken, and who all else has motive and cause? Off we go, a crime to solve and a life try to hold together. Top all that off with the fires ranging out of control in the area, and oh yeah.. it's combustion at it's finest.
My copy came from Net Galley. I wasn't required to leave a review, I wanted to, thus I did. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 15, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I had not read any of this author's previous books, but I now count myself as a fan! This was a fast-moving, intriguing mystery with a nice twist.
Taking place in Southern California in the midst of dry season with wildfires looming, a dried-up pond gives up a dead body - that of a wealthy businessman who had disappeared weeks ago. The detective investigating soon finds himself with a long list of people who didn't like the deceased.
The detective, Ron Starke, is a great character. On his own since his wife died, he lives a lonely existence while also caring for his father with dementia. When a new police chief comes into town and gets the job he thought he deserved, more tension is added to the story.
A great read!
I had not read any of this author's previous books, but I now count myself as a fan! This was a fast-moving, intriguing mystery with a nice twist.
Taking place in Southern California in the midst of dry season with wildfires looming, a dried-up pond gives up a dead body - that of a wealthy businessman who had disappeared weeks ago. The detective investigating soon finds himself with a long list of people who didn't like the deceased.
The detective, Ron Starke, is a great character. On his own since his wife died, he lives a lonely existence while also caring for his father with dementia. When a new police chief comes into town and gets the job he thought he deserved, more tension is added to the story.
A great read!
December 29, 2020
“Combustion” is a thrilling, well-crafted, murder mystery. Plan to stay up past your bedtime with this one. When I finally did put the book down, I couldn’t get it out of my head. A local cop, Ron Starke, is investigating the murder of a loathsome, highly successful real estate developer whose wife was his high school girlfriend. As pressure builds from his new captain with secrets of her own, a wildfire builds out of control. “Combustion” is full of complicated characters, nail-biting action, unexpected plot twists, and OMG that ending!
August 21, 2019
COMBUSTION is a heart-in-mouth, can't-catch-your-breath thriller, as human evil and psychosis combine with the ravages of Nature. Well-developed characters, realistic plot threads, reasonable character evolution'--and that Wildfire! Quite suspenseful and frequently scary! I found it especially poignant in view of last year's California wildfire ravages.
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