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Jon Fixx
JON FIXX is a clever, light-hearted thriller dressed up in the trappings of a misguided romance. The novelty of writing love stories as wedding gifts has worn thin for Jon as his own love life falls to pieces. But when Mafia Don Tony Vespucci comes knocking, Vespucci won't take no for an answer. As Jon's choices carry him deeper into the dark nexus of the FBI and La Cosa Nostra, Jon realizes what he writes could have life or death consequences. With an easy-to-read pulp fiction style and enough twists to make Agatha Christie happy, JON FIXX is a page turner.
- GenresFiction
452 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2015
2 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
September 12, 2016
Author: Jason Squire Fluck
Published: 02/01/2015
I received a copy of this novel thats to the amazing author in exchange for my honest review so....here is my review!
First of all I really love this novel! I felt so honoured to be able to get the change to read this book and I just couldn't wait to dive straight into the novel. The book is really brilliantly written, it keeps up a good pace throughout the novel which makes it easy to keep hold of the readers attention, keep them hooked on the novel and the characters. This is a brilliant debut novel written by a talented writter. All of the characters add something to the novel, there isn't any background characters, they all add to helping the reader imagine the surroundings, setting and characters that are featured in the book.
The character of Jon Fixx is one that is easy to get on with, and you want to know more about him which you do throughout the novel which adds depth to the book as it makes the reader feel like they really know Jon Fixx, he is the kind of character that you can vividly imagine in your mind...or even imagine being on the big screen one day!. It is the type of book that makes you want to read it and read it and not have to be away from it.
The novel has an unexpected twist of having the mob and FBI involved in it aswell, these little twist and turns also adds to the reader wanting to keep reading as you dont know where the author is going to take the story next. Even though it does have all of the points of a great crime novel...it doesnt mean that it makes it a predictable book to read. The only bad thing I have to say about this book that it finished! I could happily read many more books featuring the wonderful character Jon Fixx and I hope to read more books from this author one day.
Published: 02/01/2015
I received a copy of this novel thats to the amazing author in exchange for my honest review so....here is my review!
First of all I really love this novel! I felt so honoured to be able to get the change to read this book and I just couldn't wait to dive straight into the novel. The book is really brilliantly written, it keeps up a good pace throughout the novel which makes it easy to keep hold of the readers attention, keep them hooked on the novel and the characters. This is a brilliant debut novel written by a talented writter. All of the characters add something to the novel, there isn't any background characters, they all add to helping the reader imagine the surroundings, setting and characters that are featured in the book.
The character of Jon Fixx is one that is easy to get on with, and you want to know more about him which you do throughout the novel which adds depth to the book as it makes the reader feel like they really know Jon Fixx, he is the kind of character that you can vividly imagine in your mind...or even imagine being on the big screen one day!. It is the type of book that makes you want to read it and read it and not have to be away from it.
The novel has an unexpected twist of having the mob and FBI involved in it aswell, these little twist and turns also adds to the reader wanting to keep reading as you dont know where the author is going to take the story next. Even though it does have all of the points of a great crime novel...it doesnt mean that it makes it a predictable book to read. The only bad thing I have to say about this book that it finished! I could happily read many more books featuring the wonderful character Jon Fixx and I hope to read more books from this author one day.
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February 14, 2015Jason Squire Fluck has written a smart novel that embraces many of the conventions found in the detective genre, thus earning its place in that section of the bookstore -- but Jon Fixx also breaks with enough of them to land in popular/literary fiction as well.
Jon Fixx, Fluck’s eponymous hero, isn’t a detective by calling; he is a ‘wanna-be serious author’ who funds his ‘serious’ work by hiring himself out to young couples who want their love stories told, then bound for presentation to wedding guests. To make these tributes to the uniqueness of each couple’s mutual devotion ring true, Jon does extensive interviews with family and friends; he occasionally unearths a detail or two best not included in the final draft -- but rather than pursue them he has the good taste to leave them out of the finished document.
When we begin this story, though, Jon has discovered such truly tawdry tidbits in the life histories of both bride and groom -- of the sort that no self-respecting White Knight can allow to go unnoticed -- he can’t help putting a hatchet into the wedding plans of the Nickels’ clan—a political powerhouse California family. Now, the brother and father of the rejected bride want to put a hatchet into Jon’s life. Their random assaults put one of Jon’s two feet into ‘detecting,’ but these bad guys quickly become the sub-plot.
Enter the Vespuccis. Tony, the unofficial boss of the New York Mafia, wants to hire Jon Fixx to document the romance between his daughter, Maggie, and her fiancé, Marco, the son of Tony’s best friend and head of another Mafia family. Jon’s internal warning system blares ‘run the other way,’ but he picks up the equally pointed message that ‘no one says no to Tony Vespucci’. (A character trait that Jon shares with all good fictional detectives is intuition and sensitivity to other people, to what they are saying and to what they aren’t saying and to what they are really saying. It serves him well when working with shy (or sly) young couples, or in this case terribly powerful men who have no qualms about eliminating people who annoy them.) During his job interview, Jon picks up the vibe that Tony, more than wanting the wonderful gift for his daughter’s wedding guests, wants Jon -- in his capacity as harmless maker of wedding-fluff -- to dig deep and find out if there is some ugly truth about Marco that isn’t on the table.
From the moment Jon sets eyes on Marco he senses that the young swain’s intentions are less than honorable, that Tony is right to be concerned for his daughter’s future happiness. Marco, a clever, high-end sociopath, has no interest in anyone -- even a wedding-book hack -- turning over any rocks. He is the man with the most to lose and the most to hide, and thus turns into Jon’s most threatening adversary. Marco wants Jon off the scene; he does not want Jon doing what Jon does, which is find the threads in the lives of both bride and groom that are what braid all lovers together. Marco knows his are broken and way beyond repair.
Between Tony’s truculent insistence and Jon’s fundamentally decent wish to protect Maggie from a terrible mistake, this new gig for the Vespuccis puts the second foot in: Jon Fixx is now, officially, an amateur detective.
Fluck successfully gets all these ducks in a row quite early in the book, while creating a warm feeling of concern for Jon Fixx; it is his character who keeps the pages turning. We certainly don’t want Marco dumping him into the foundry’s pit of molten steel, nor do we want the aforementioned Nickels’ thugs to break his kneecaps in some dark alley brawl. These are some angry, dangerous, often cold hearted, people where Fixx is the kind of guy you’d want to marry your sister. His flaws are endearing; he’s better at reading other people than he is at knowing himself; his relationships are not entirely healthy -- his women tend to prey on his innocence and good nature. Nonetheless, Jon remains a gentleman throughout, observant about women’s clothing and secret curves -- a suave man in all the ways that matter. (Fluck manages to decorously let us know that, like all good detectives, Jon is no innocent in the bedroom but has too much class to talk about it.)
Jon Fixx rambles energetically through a variety of plots, subplots and ruminations, with Fluck bringing in the FBI and an assorted cast of goons and gun-men, all of whom have Jon on their minds. Lest his protagonist seem unrealistically outnumbered, Fluck teams him with two charming sidekicks: Donovan, the broad-shouldered African American, ex-special forces; and Luci, the martial arts master/ erstwhile cross-dressing and now artistic director of the books Jon Fixx creates for his clients. They are both sympathetic to Jon’s intuitions and have the physical wiles to keep him safe enough to go on sleuthing while never completely eliminating the threats that hang over him.
All this pays off because there is the perfect girl for Jon in this story. Yes, it looks like Jon might be at the end of his personal search for his 10 -- that is, if he plays his cards right and finds out what Tony Vespucci really wants him to find out while keeping his head intact and squarely attached to his broad, capable shoulders. In all, Jon Fixx is a very satisfying experience for readers who like their detective stories fully fleshed-out with plenty of individualistic characters, cross-currents of plot and personality, thoughtful ruminations on the state of the world and a satisfying conclusion -- and who doesn’t?
Jon Fixx, Fluck’s eponymous hero, isn’t a detective by calling; he is a ‘wanna-be serious author’ who funds his ‘serious’ work by hiring himself out to young couples who want their love stories told, then bound for presentation to wedding guests. To make these tributes to the uniqueness of each couple’s mutual devotion ring true, Jon does extensive interviews with family and friends; he occasionally unearths a detail or two best not included in the final draft -- but rather than pursue them he has the good taste to leave them out of the finished document.
When we begin this story, though, Jon has discovered such truly tawdry tidbits in the life histories of both bride and groom -- of the sort that no self-respecting White Knight can allow to go unnoticed -- he can’t help putting a hatchet into the wedding plans of the Nickels’ clan—a political powerhouse California family. Now, the brother and father of the rejected bride want to put a hatchet into Jon’s life. Their random assaults put one of Jon’s two feet into ‘detecting,’ but these bad guys quickly become the sub-plot.
Enter the Vespuccis. Tony, the unofficial boss of the New York Mafia, wants to hire Jon Fixx to document the romance between his daughter, Maggie, and her fiancé, Marco, the son of Tony’s best friend and head of another Mafia family. Jon’s internal warning system blares ‘run the other way,’ but he picks up the equally pointed message that ‘no one says no to Tony Vespucci’. (A character trait that Jon shares with all good fictional detectives is intuition and sensitivity to other people, to what they are saying and to what they aren’t saying and to what they are really saying. It serves him well when working with shy (or sly) young couples, or in this case terribly powerful men who have no qualms about eliminating people who annoy them.) During his job interview, Jon picks up the vibe that Tony, more than wanting the wonderful gift for his daughter’s wedding guests, wants Jon -- in his capacity as harmless maker of wedding-fluff -- to dig deep and find out if there is some ugly truth about Marco that isn’t on the table.
From the moment Jon sets eyes on Marco he senses that the young swain’s intentions are less than honorable, that Tony is right to be concerned for his daughter’s future happiness. Marco, a clever, high-end sociopath, has no interest in anyone -- even a wedding-book hack -- turning over any rocks. He is the man with the most to lose and the most to hide, and thus turns into Jon’s most threatening adversary. Marco wants Jon off the scene; he does not want Jon doing what Jon does, which is find the threads in the lives of both bride and groom that are what braid all lovers together. Marco knows his are broken and way beyond repair.
Between Tony’s truculent insistence and Jon’s fundamentally decent wish to protect Maggie from a terrible mistake, this new gig for the Vespuccis puts the second foot in: Jon Fixx is now, officially, an amateur detective.
Fluck successfully gets all these ducks in a row quite early in the book, while creating a warm feeling of concern for Jon Fixx; it is his character who keeps the pages turning. We certainly don’t want Marco dumping him into the foundry’s pit of molten steel, nor do we want the aforementioned Nickels’ thugs to break his kneecaps in some dark alley brawl. These are some angry, dangerous, often cold hearted, people where Fixx is the kind of guy you’d want to marry your sister. His flaws are endearing; he’s better at reading other people than he is at knowing himself; his relationships are not entirely healthy -- his women tend to prey on his innocence and good nature. Nonetheless, Jon remains a gentleman throughout, observant about women’s clothing and secret curves -- a suave man in all the ways that matter. (Fluck manages to decorously let us know that, like all good detectives, Jon is no innocent in the bedroom but has too much class to talk about it.)
Jon Fixx rambles energetically through a variety of plots, subplots and ruminations, with Fluck bringing in the FBI and an assorted cast of goons and gun-men, all of whom have Jon on their minds. Lest his protagonist seem unrealistically outnumbered, Fluck teams him with two charming sidekicks: Donovan, the broad-shouldered African American, ex-special forces; and Luci, the martial arts master/ erstwhile cross-dressing and now artistic director of the books Jon Fixx creates for his clients. They are both sympathetic to Jon’s intuitions and have the physical wiles to keep him safe enough to go on sleuthing while never completely eliminating the threats that hang over him.
All this pays off because there is the perfect girl for Jon in this story. Yes, it looks like Jon might be at the end of his personal search for his 10 -- that is, if he plays his cards right and finds out what Tony Vespucci really wants him to find out while keeping his head intact and squarely attached to his broad, capable shoulders. In all, Jon Fixx is a very satisfying experience for readers who like their detective stories fully fleshed-out with plenty of individualistic characters, cross-currents of plot and personality, thoughtful ruminations on the state of the world and a satisfying conclusion -- and who doesn’t?
February 25, 2019
From N.Y. to L.A. and back Jon Fixx embarks on the tumultuous adventure packed journey of his life. A man with a heart of gold, who feels too much, has sharp instincts about others yet has been unlucky at love, he finds himself in almost over his head when taking on his most recent job. Violence and danger his constant companions he enlists the help of two unbeatable friends, Luci and Donavan, to help keep him alive. They encounter a wide range of experiences which bring the high energy of NYC alive. From cab drivers to jewelry sellers to the exquisite cuisine of Italy the reader has a front row seat to the point of hearing sirens, blaring horns, and almost tasting the best pizza in the world. Jason Squire Fluck offers readers a gritty page turning suspense story. A little bit mystery, a little bit thriller, and a touch of a love story all add up to an immensely satisfying read. His timing is sublime, never fading out, keeping the reader on edge while he allows the puzzle pieces to fall into place at just the right moments. The story culminates in a well crafted emotionally satisfying ending. The scent of roses brought a tear to my eye. I regretfully ended this read as I wanted to hang out with those guys a whole lot longer. Read this book and meet Jon Fixx. He is a character you’re likely to not forget.
April 3, 2015
Jon Fixx writes other peoples’ love stories. His job involves writing Hollywood-based novellas for newlyweds. What could be an easier gig? Of course, his career is a bit complicated because of the implosion of his own love life. His girlfriend, Sara, has dumped him and made live-in arrangements with a Frenchman, Michel – who, unfortunately, has a cousin who is an FBI agent. Jon’s life is complicated. The FBI agent is threatening him because of his irritating habit of stalking Sara. He has a family of rich, degenerate snobs threatening him because the story he’s written for the daughter and her fiancé exposed them for what they were and caused the wedding to be called off. And, to make bad matters worse, he’s been hired to write the love story of a mafia boss’s daughter and her hitman fiancé, and he’s made the mistake of becoming personally involved in their lives.
I received a free copy of Jon Fixx, a first novel by Jason Squire Fluck, in exchange for my review. Most first novels are a bit on the rough side, but this author has an uncanny ability to translate a murky situation involving coast to coast moves and a broad swath of humanity into a riotous, ribald romp that will generate chuckles and chills in equal measure.
You’re guaranteed to be mesmerized as you follow Jon from LA to a college town in Pennsylvania to the Big Apple. The dialogue is pithy and the descriptions so vivid you’re likely to find yourself sneezing from the dust motes in the air.
I certainly hope this is not the last we’ll see of Jon Fixx.
I received a free copy of Jon Fixx, a first novel by Jason Squire Fluck, in exchange for my review. Most first novels are a bit on the rough side, but this author has an uncanny ability to translate a murky situation involving coast to coast moves and a broad swath of humanity into a riotous, ribald romp that will generate chuckles and chills in equal measure.
You’re guaranteed to be mesmerized as you follow Jon from LA to a college town in Pennsylvania to the Big Apple. The dialogue is pithy and the descriptions so vivid you’re likely to find yourself sneezing from the dust motes in the air.
I certainly hope this is not the last we’ll see of Jon Fixx.
March 1, 2015
This novel pushes the boundaries far beyond what the average detective novel lays out. Instead of a surface level "whodunnit" storyline, Jason Squire Fluck has created a puzzle of sorts that draws the reader deep into the lives of characters, the tangled relationships, and even the cities themselves. Just by opening the book and beginning with the first page, the reader embarks upon an intricate journey of twists and turns, hopes and fears, love and hate that create a masterpiece of fiction writing with each new layer of Jon Fixx's world. This first novel based on Jon's life would make an excellent movie, and offers a tease to readers who want to follow Jon Fixx into his next adventure. This novel is wonderfully written and deeming it a "pleasure to read" isn't giving it enough credit; dive into this book not for the simple pleasure, but for the excitement, the intrigue, the care and attention that the author clearly had in creating such an amazing work of fiction. In reading this novel, you are truly experiencing the next level of detective fiction at its very best.
May 15, 2015
I got that book as a pre Reader by story cartel. Excuse my possible English mistakes, i'm french.
At first i found it pretty hard to understand the story as the chapters are not in chronological order.
But after sticking to it i got carried away by all this mafia story and this weird "Jon fixx".
By the middle of the book i was really hitched and eager to know how the plot and All the characters will be getting together.
The end was really great. I loved those characters, despite some weird names. (luci with a i as a guy name really?)
And enjoyed that the "good people" aren't who you think.
I'll definitely read a sequel if the author publish one.
Ps: how All those deep and conflicted love Relationship Will follow??
What This quite bastard of FBI agent Will do ???
At first i found it pretty hard to understand the story as the chapters are not in chronological order.
But after sticking to it i got carried away by all this mafia story and this weird "Jon fixx".
By the middle of the book i was really hitched and eager to know how the plot and All the characters will be getting together.
The end was really great. I loved those characters, despite some weird names. (luci with a i as a guy name really?)
And enjoyed that the "good people" aren't who you think.
I'll definitely read a sequel if the author publish one.
Ps: how All those deep and conflicted love Relationship Will follow??
What This quite bastard of FBI agent Will do ???
May 14, 2015
I absolutely loved it!
I saw there were a bunch of 5-star reviews here and was really intrigued by the plot synopsis, so I figured I'd like to give this book a try on a long upcoming flight I had. I was definitely NOT disappointed! I would gladly--without question---read anything from this author again! Not since I discovered Christopher Moore's books have I discovered something so much fun and well-written. I want more!
I saw there were a bunch of 5-star reviews here and was really intrigued by the plot synopsis, so I figured I'd like to give this book a try on a long upcoming flight I had. I was definitely NOT disappointed! I would gladly--without question---read anything from this author again! Not since I discovered Christopher Moore's books have I discovered something so much fun and well-written. I want more!
September 9, 2015
I hope this is not the last piece we see from this author. This is a great debut from a promising storyteller. The concept is light-hearted and unique. How could a writer working on love stories get in so much trouble?
It has what every noir story needs. Interesting characters, intrigue, twists and turns, and a taste of the underworld.
It has what every noir story needs. Interesting characters, intrigue, twists and turns, and a taste of the underworld.
July 14, 2015
Well done Mr. Fluck, well done! I thoroughly enjoyed reading your first novel. It was extremely difficult to put the book down. I caught myself reading when I should have been working on my new house. Loved the references to Lancaster County. Can't wait to read more Jon Fixx adventures!!
January 9, 2016
Webster’s defines noir as “1: crime fiction featuring hard-boiled cynical characters and bleak sleazy settings.” Jon Fixx, one of Kirkus Review’s top Indie Books of 2015 is that and more, a madcap mix of noir and romance, a fabulously fun tale of a niche romance writer who’s life’s been on a downward spiral since his girlfriend, Sara, dumped him. The story manages to be predictable in the crime story genre kind of way, and also surprising because the main character is not a sleaze ball, or a criminal, or even a victim, but a guy who just happens to be good at what he does and which lands him in a predicament he can’t write his way out of. What I loved about Jon Fixx was the way the road took a sharp left turn every time you thought you knew where the story was going.
Jon Fixx is a romantic at heart and he’s turned that trait into a lucrative career. He’ll write your love story and package it up all pretty with the help of his best friend, Luci, who handles the artistic content, making you the star of your own show and simultaneously creating a wonderful keepsake to remember the event. Simple, yet elegant, right? Unfortunately for our hero, wrong. It’s not even close to being that simple. The novel starts with a post-breakup, traumatized Fixx who just can’t grasp the idea that he’s no longer numero uno on ex-girlfriend Sara’s speed dial. He heads off on a solo road trip to Las Vegas to clear his head and regain some composure. True, she ditched him in a pitiless and cold-blooded manner, and true, he needed some time to adjust, but calling her for months afterwards in the middle of the night from various pay phones in the L.A. area just to hear her voice, then hanging up on her without saying a word borders on lunacy. It’s all relative though since the real lunacy is Fixx standing in the parking lot at a Howard Johnson’s rest stop, banging his head against the metal frame of the phone booth, trying to still the inner voices begging him to make the call while his conscious mind begs him to stop. The result is a few moments of blackout, a nice lump on his head, and a new friend, Donovan, the security guy who takes pity on him.
The breakup resulted in not only a broken heart but a severe case of writer’s block, a problem if you are writing under deadline. Fixx tries to beg off an assignment — a story about a particularly horrible high-profile couple — but the father who happens to be the Los Angeles District Attorney will not allow it and demands Fixx finish the piece. He does, but tells the truth about them in an uncensored and brutally honest manner. Suddenly the wedding is off, the parties are furious, and Fixx is at risk of getting his faced smashed in at every turn. Surprise — things get worse when he’s asked to write his special brand of love story for a mob boss’s daughter and her fiancé. Fixx takes the job — as if he has a choice — and finds himself growing more and more attracted to the boss’s daughter, the mob boss’s daughter.
I had a bit of trouble initially with the way the book bounces back and forth in time, but the story is compelling, fresh and funny, so any momentary confusion I may have experienced from a non-linear telling was forgotten in all the fun.
The pace is quick, the narration light and airy, the sense of drama never over the top. There’s no sex, no bad words, and no gun violence — people only use their fists in this book — a refreshing throwback to a more manageable time. Crime + romance = irresistible noir = Jon Fixx. I can’t wait to see the movie.
Jon Fixx is a romantic at heart and he’s turned that trait into a lucrative career. He’ll write your love story and package it up all pretty with the help of his best friend, Luci, who handles the artistic content, making you the star of your own show and simultaneously creating a wonderful keepsake to remember the event. Simple, yet elegant, right? Unfortunately for our hero, wrong. It’s not even close to being that simple. The novel starts with a post-breakup, traumatized Fixx who just can’t grasp the idea that he’s no longer numero uno on ex-girlfriend Sara’s speed dial. He heads off on a solo road trip to Las Vegas to clear his head and regain some composure. True, she ditched him in a pitiless and cold-blooded manner, and true, he needed some time to adjust, but calling her for months afterwards in the middle of the night from various pay phones in the L.A. area just to hear her voice, then hanging up on her without saying a word borders on lunacy. It’s all relative though since the real lunacy is Fixx standing in the parking lot at a Howard Johnson’s rest stop, banging his head against the metal frame of the phone booth, trying to still the inner voices begging him to make the call while his conscious mind begs him to stop. The result is a few moments of blackout, a nice lump on his head, and a new friend, Donovan, the security guy who takes pity on him.
The breakup resulted in not only a broken heart but a severe case of writer’s block, a problem if you are writing under deadline. Fixx tries to beg off an assignment — a story about a particularly horrible high-profile couple — but the father who happens to be the Los Angeles District Attorney will not allow it and demands Fixx finish the piece. He does, but tells the truth about them in an uncensored and brutally honest manner. Suddenly the wedding is off, the parties are furious, and Fixx is at risk of getting his faced smashed in at every turn. Surprise — things get worse when he’s asked to write his special brand of love story for a mob boss’s daughter and her fiancé. Fixx takes the job — as if he has a choice — and finds himself growing more and more attracted to the boss’s daughter, the mob boss’s daughter.
I had a bit of trouble initially with the way the book bounces back and forth in time, but the story is compelling, fresh and funny, so any momentary confusion I may have experienced from a non-linear telling was forgotten in all the fun.
The pace is quick, the narration light and airy, the sense of drama never over the top. There’s no sex, no bad words, and no gun violence — people only use their fists in this book — a refreshing throwback to a more manageable time. Crime + romance = irresistible noir = Jon Fixx. I can’t wait to see the movie.
August 6, 2015
When is the movie coming out? Jon Fixx by Jason Squire Fluck would make a fantastic film—it captivates a wide audience with its suspense, action, drama, and so much heart.
The title character earns his living in a unique way: He writes true love stories for couples; mainly engaged couples but also for people reaching anniversary milestones. A tender-hearted romantic himself, Jon Fixx is ideal for this profession. He’s sensitive, perceptive and discreet. Jon’s a refreshing male protagonist: He’s not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve, and he’ll fall apart over lost love.
The book opens with Jon falling apart after he is callously dumped by his live-in girlfriend. This emotional setback coincides with a string of professional setbacks and challenges as well. He angers the powerful Los Angeles District Attorney and his dysfunctional family when Jon writes the absolute truth about his daughter and her fiancée, a truly despicable couple. The powerful family declares revenge and becomes a threat to Jon. Around the same time, a powerful New York Mafia boss summons Jon to write his engaged daughter’s love story. He makes him an offer he can’t refuse.
The plot divides its time between Los Angeles, Jon’s home, and New York City, the setting for the love story he’s writing for Vespucci’s daughter Maggie and her hostile fiancé, Marco. Tired of getting his butt kicked by his new-found enemies, Jon drives out to see Donovan, an impressive, strong, friendly security guard he encountered at the Howard Johnson’s during his post-breakup meltdown. Donovan agrees to quit his job and work as Jon’s own private bodyguard. He also brings Luci, his long-time friend and martial arts expert, to New York City. Luci is accustomed to accompanying Jon on his assignments as Luci works with Jon on creating the visuals for the novelettes he writes. It’s enjoyable reading the interaction among the three men; they each bring their own life experience to the table and complement one another.
When Jon meets the subject of his project, Maggie, he is taken aback by her beauty. More importantly, she’s a genuinely kind-hearted, intelligent person, the kind the reader knows that Jon deserves. He dismisses any feelings that surface. Perceptive Jon soon realizes that Vespucci may have hired him to unearth the truth about Marco. Not one to cower from a challenge, and motivated by his deep affection for Maggie, Jon sets in motion an elaborate plan to get to the truth while keeping him and his friends safe.
Jon Fixx is an edge of your seat read and one that is hard to put down. It’s rich in plot and character, and I want to read the next installment of it!
The title character earns his living in a unique way: He writes true love stories for couples; mainly engaged couples but also for people reaching anniversary milestones. A tender-hearted romantic himself, Jon Fixx is ideal for this profession. He’s sensitive, perceptive and discreet. Jon’s a refreshing male protagonist: He’s not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve, and he’ll fall apart over lost love.
The book opens with Jon falling apart after he is callously dumped by his live-in girlfriend. This emotional setback coincides with a string of professional setbacks and challenges as well. He angers the powerful Los Angeles District Attorney and his dysfunctional family when Jon writes the absolute truth about his daughter and her fiancée, a truly despicable couple. The powerful family declares revenge and becomes a threat to Jon. Around the same time, a powerful New York Mafia boss summons Jon to write his engaged daughter’s love story. He makes him an offer he can’t refuse.
The plot divides its time between Los Angeles, Jon’s home, and New York City, the setting for the love story he’s writing for Vespucci’s daughter Maggie and her hostile fiancé, Marco. Tired of getting his butt kicked by his new-found enemies, Jon drives out to see Donovan, an impressive, strong, friendly security guard he encountered at the Howard Johnson’s during his post-breakup meltdown. Donovan agrees to quit his job and work as Jon’s own private bodyguard. He also brings Luci, his long-time friend and martial arts expert, to New York City. Luci is accustomed to accompanying Jon on his assignments as Luci works with Jon on creating the visuals for the novelettes he writes. It’s enjoyable reading the interaction among the three men; they each bring their own life experience to the table and complement one another.
When Jon meets the subject of his project, Maggie, he is taken aback by her beauty. More importantly, she’s a genuinely kind-hearted, intelligent person, the kind the reader knows that Jon deserves. He dismisses any feelings that surface. Perceptive Jon soon realizes that Vespucci may have hired him to unearth the truth about Marco. Not one to cower from a challenge, and motivated by his deep affection for Maggie, Jon sets in motion an elaborate plan to get to the truth while keeping him and his friends safe.
Jon Fixx is an edge of your seat read and one that is hard to put down. It’s rich in plot and character, and I want to read the next installment of it!
April 3, 2015
LA, CA, Sara had just broke up with Jon Fixx (writer/author, Franklin & Marshall (F/M), anthropology).
It seems Michel (French, Ted’s cousin) had been seeing Sara for quite some time.
Agent Ted Williams (FBI) came to visit Jon.
Jon commutes back/forth to NYC.
Tony Vespucci (NY Mafia boss, Vespucci Construction) had hired Jon to write a never-ending Cinderella romantic story about his daughter Maggie Vespucci (BS, NYU, MS; Ph.D.; anthropology, assistant professor) & her fiancée Marco Balducci.
Jon was also working on another romantic novel The Coffee Shop Lovers (Scott Michaels, Anna Jensen).
It seems several PPL wanted Jon whacked.
Jon hires Donovan (retired Special Forces) to be his personal bodyguard.
Several names came to Jon’s mind: Agent Ted Williams (FBI); Jim Mosconi (reporter) & Nick Nickels Jr. (Candy’s brother).
But what about Nick Nickels Sr. (Nick Jr.’s, Candy’s dad)?
Luci Gardner (Jon’s BMF, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, Penn St., layout, photographer) was helping Jon in his investigation into the fiasco.
What does Marco Balducci name keep popping up?
Are Maggie & Marco really in love?
Out of the blue Sara calls Jon?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written Italians Mafia book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Italians Mafia movie, or mini TV series. I would say you have an upcoming career. No blood/guts, but suspense/drama. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Story Cartel; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
It seems Michel (French, Ted’s cousin) had been seeing Sara for quite some time.
Agent Ted Williams (FBI) came to visit Jon.
Jon commutes back/forth to NYC.
Tony Vespucci (NY Mafia boss, Vespucci Construction) had hired Jon to write a never-ending Cinderella romantic story about his daughter Maggie Vespucci (BS, NYU, MS; Ph.D.; anthropology, assistant professor) & her fiancée Marco Balducci.
Jon was also working on another romantic novel The Coffee Shop Lovers (Scott Michaels, Anna Jensen).
It seems several PPL wanted Jon whacked.
Jon hires Donovan (retired Special Forces) to be his personal bodyguard.
Several names came to Jon’s mind: Agent Ted Williams (FBI); Jim Mosconi (reporter) & Nick Nickels Jr. (Candy’s brother).
But what about Nick Nickels Sr. (Nick Jr.’s, Candy’s dad)?
Luci Gardner (Jon’s BMF, Pennsylvania College of Art & Design, Penn St., layout, photographer) was helping Jon in his investigation into the fiasco.
What does Marco Balducci name keep popping up?
Are Maggie & Marco really in love?
Out of the blue Sara calls Jon?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written Italians Mafia book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great Italians Mafia movie, or mini TV series. I would say you have an upcoming career. No blood/guts, but suspense/drama. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Story Cartel; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 8, 2015
A giant "hats off" to Jason Fluck for the fantastic journey I just took with his buddy, Jon Fixx. Two weeks to get it read was one week and six days too long... but like Fixx, life threw me a few curve balls. Jon Fixx and his crew of spectacular characters kept me riveted throughout. I found myself reading at the hair salon, the dermatologist, or late into the nights when early call times should have meant otherwise. A romance? A crime novel? A hybrid perhaps? Not sure, but frankly, who cares? Fluck's characters were perfectly off quilter and quirky. Be it his towering martial-arts-aficionado best friend Luci, or his hired genie/giant/magic-making chaperone, Donavan. Who knew the mafia disposed of their bodies in a scorching pool of molten metal? Who knew a fella as love-lost as Jon Fixx could find himself in such oddly believable absurdity?
Great work Jason, super impressed with your first book. I so enjoyed the ride. From Los Angeles to New York and back, again and again. I saw the cloud cover from the planes, smelt the overpowering wafts of Italian aftershaves, and heard the pitter-patter of delicate hearts-lost and found. Thanks so much. Looking forward to Fixx's next adventures.
Great work Jason, super impressed with your first book. I so enjoyed the ride. From Los Angeles to New York and back, again and again. I saw the cloud cover from the planes, smelt the overpowering wafts of Italian aftershaves, and heard the pitter-patter of delicate hearts-lost and found. Thanks so much. Looking forward to Fixx's next adventures.
November 18, 2015
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced, imaginative and funny. The plot is a bit outlandish but the characters are engaging. I really liked Jon and his cast of friends (especially Luci, Ziggy and Donavan). At times there is too much extraneous information ... do we really need to know every street driven down or what music is playing in the cab? But, all it all, the book keeps the interest flowing.
I do have a problem with Jon and his girl friends (Sara, Jennifer and Maggie) ... nobody could be that clueless! How can he be so insightful about some things and know nothing about women?
It seems to me that there is another adventure in the works for Jon and his pals. I will be looking for the next book in this series.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced, imaginative and funny. The plot is a bit outlandish but the characters are engaging. I really liked Jon and his cast of friends (especially Luci, Ziggy and Donavan). At times there is too much extraneous information ... do we really need to know every street driven down or what music is playing in the cab? But, all it all, the book keeps the interest flowing.
I do have a problem with Jon and his girl friends (Sara, Jennifer and Maggie) ... nobody could be that clueless! How can he be so insightful about some things and know nothing about women?
It seems to me that there is another adventure in the works for Jon and his pals. I will be looking for the next book in this series.
June 18, 2015
A solid potboiler by a first time author. What starts as typically L.A. lost in life and love drama quickly becomes intriguing with the unexpected involvement of the mob and FBI. Not a strict crime drama, per se, the enjoyment is in the unique take on a struggling writer having made a career out of writing the love stories of wedding couples, who then has to carefully negotiate the world of the mob when a crime boss hires him for his daughter's wedding. And the main character, Jon Fixx, is not a careful person, which makes for a page turner. I even had to put reading it on hold for a month (for no fault of the book's) and I got back into it without missing a beat. A fun read.
May 14, 2015
This book kept me entertained throughout, I even felt guilty reading about some of his adventures because I knew he was wrong for doing certain things but I just wanted to keep reading and see what kind of trouble he could get himself in to. I could envision everything that was happening as Jason Fluck is pretty descriptive in his writing style. The twist at the end was magnificent and I wished there was more to read because Jon and his posse are quite enthralling to say the least! I would highly recommend this book!!!
November 1, 2015
Could you have the airplane circle the airport a couple more times - I need to finish my book. Riveting! Like others have said I need another Fixx! I loved the characters - I got attached to some and hated others and for real I didn't want the book to end. The story gradually sucks you in - before you know it you are not moving until you find out what happens. This is a talent I really appreciate.
8 stars out of 5. A good read.
8 stars out of 5. A good read.
March 1, 2016
Jon Fixx is a great read. It grabs you in the beginning and never lets go. All the characters (good and bad) are well developed and all of them are necessary to the plot. What starts out as an original story line continues it's originality with several twists, turn, and things coming at you from left field. Nothing is predicable, but it all fits together wonderfully. I am definitely looking forward to more from first time author Mr. Fluck. Well done!
July 1, 2015
I am sad to give this book only 3 stars. This book was very well written and it kept my interest, however, this is not the genre that I am crazy about. That being said, this was probably one of the best fiction, mystery-type books that I have read. It would be a fantastic, easy summer read for those who enjoy this genre. The character development was great and the story had many twists.
November 4, 2015
* I received this book for free from Goodreads First Reads. *
I had a little trouble getting into this book. The first part of the book felt like it dragged on. However, the longer I read the more it pulled me in. The latter part of the book was very engaging and I didn't want to stop until I had finished reading.
I had a little trouble getting into this book. The first part of the book felt like it dragged on. However, the longer I read the more it pulled me in. The latter part of the book was very engaging and I didn't want to stop until I had finished reading.
April 12, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jason Fluck's "Jon Fixx". Once I started it was hard to put down. I finished it about 3am after a cross country flight. For anyone who loves a great story set primarily in Los Angeles ala Michael Connelly, this is a fantastic read.
October 14, 2015
Goodreads win. Will read and review once receive
This was a pretty good read. The characters in this book were well thought of and likable. The length of the book was just right, but I will admit I wish it would have went on for a little longer. I would definitely recommend this book.
This was a pretty good read. The characters in this book were well thought of and likable. The length of the book was just right, but I will admit I wish it would have went on for a little longer. I would definitely recommend this book.
March 6, 2015
Great read! Great characters! This is the kind of story that you don't want to end. I loved it and highly recommend. Hoping for a sequel. I need another Fixx!
December 16, 2015
I won this book through the giveaways. Jon Fixx is a page turner!! It is well written and will keep you entertained.
September 27, 2024
It was a fun and unique ride. It held my interest with the plot and also brought some humor and wisdom to the table. Definitely recommend it!
June 7, 2015
[I received a copy of the book from the Author after winning a Goodreads giveaway]
I think that Jason Squire Fluck did a great job in his first book.I loved his writing, storytelling and the characters he unfolds.He really focuses on the characters and not only on the story itself, giving you an inside look to what they think and feel.The book was interesting until the end with some nice turns in the story.It was like watching a movie inside your head,which is what every good fiction book should do, and I could see that book becoming an actual movie.
I will for sure be waiting for the next book and it seems that it will be about the adventures of Jon Fixx again...
That being said I think the writer should maybe be a little more careful about overusing some expressions , it was noticeable at some points of the book.
I think that Jason Squire Fluck did a great job in his first book.I loved his writing, storytelling and the characters he unfolds.He really focuses on the characters and not only on the story itself, giving you an inside look to what they think and feel.The book was interesting until the end with some nice turns in the story.It was like watching a movie inside your head,which is what every good fiction book should do, and I could see that book becoming an actual movie.
I will for sure be waiting for the next book and it seems that it will be about the adventures of Jon Fixx again...
That being said I think the writer should maybe be a little more careful about overusing some expressions , it was noticeable at some points of the book.
July 18, 2015
Loved the characters. Once I got past the first couple of chapters I was hooked and read it in two nights
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