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Sam Jenkins Mysteries #3
Heroes & Lovers
TV reporter Rachel Williamson helps Chief Sam Jenkins with a classic fraud investigation. However, the case puts Rachel in jeopardy, and her abduction by a mentally disturbed man changes her life forever.
Eventually Jenkins uncovers a significant clue and leads a team deep into the Smoky Mountains to rescue his friend. But once Rachel is safely home, they discover her problems are far from over.
Eventually Jenkins uncovers a significant clue and leads a team deep into the Smoky Mountains to rescue his friend. But once Rachel is safely home, they discover her problems are far from over.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
17 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Wayne Zurl
41 books107 followersWayne Zurl worked as a police officer for twenty years and retired from New York to East Tennessee. In 2006 he began to write crime fiction. More than twenty of his Sam Jenkins mystery novelettes have been published as audio books and eBooks. In January 2011, his first novel, A NEW PROSPECT, was publlished. The story follows the adventures of an ex-New York detective who finds a job as police chief in a small Tennessee city. Nine full-length novels and five anthologies in the Sam Jenkins series either are available in print and as eBooks.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 15, 2019
IT'S A PAGE-TURNING READ!!
"Heroes and Lovers" is a page-turning and intense read! I was hooked from the beginning to the end!
Chief of Police Sam Jenkins is working a couple of cases; one is a scam at a local transmission shop. The shop is charging outrageous prices and no work is being done. Sam asks his wife, Kate and his reporter-friend, Rachel, to go in disguise to the transmission shop and have mechanics check out their vehicles.
Then the unthinkable happens... What will Sam do?
What happens next is heart-pounding! The story picks up steam and off we go!
Wayne has once again weaved a tale that keeps the reader engaged. Sam is a bad-ass cop as well as a gentleman. I love how Wayne created Sam and the other characters as well - they are people you care about!
Heroes and Lovers is Book 3 in the Sam Jenkins Mystery series - if you've not had the opportunity to read books 1 and 2 - I HIGHLY recommend reading this series! You won't be disappointed!
"Heroes and Lovers" is a page-turning and intense read! I was hooked from the beginning to the end!
Chief of Police Sam Jenkins is working a couple of cases; one is a scam at a local transmission shop. The shop is charging outrageous prices and no work is being done. Sam asks his wife, Kate and his reporter-friend, Rachel, to go in disguise to the transmission shop and have mechanics check out their vehicles.
Then the unthinkable happens... What will Sam do?
What happens next is heart-pounding! The story picks up steam and off we go!
Wayne has once again weaved a tale that keeps the reader engaged. Sam is a bad-ass cop as well as a gentleman. I love how Wayne created Sam and the other characters as well - they are people you care about!
Heroes and Lovers is Book 3 in the Sam Jenkins Mystery series - if you've not had the opportunity to read books 1 and 2 - I HIGHLY recommend reading this series! You won't be disappointed!
December 19, 2012
Review of
Heroes and Lovers
By Wayne Zurl
Reviewed by R. Murry
My uncle Lou used the word spiffy to infer that an individual had class, was cool, and had his act together. Yes, the 60’s. I’m dating myself again. I don’t think spiffy is a real word, but it describes Mr. Zurl’s character Sam Jenkins and spell check didn’t put a red line under spiffy. Sam is a hero with style.
Wayne’s characters come alive in a small Southern State in the United States of America where the day to day life of a relocated New York gray haired detective is accounted for. Criminal events happen that must be rectified. Mr. Zurl goes into some detail in his interview below. I won’t.
What I’ll say is the character Sam is the center of resolving crimes against his town where he is the Chief of Police. The whole story revolves around how he intellectually finds clues that others don’t see. Not because he is such a brain, but because of his investigative street smarts that they don’t have in the Smokies.
Sam’s wit is sometimes over bearing, but enjoyable to the reader. Not so for the other characters he is surrounded with. To them, he comes across as not being sensitive enough. He feels he is and can’t understand why they don’t get it.
Here’s where the love comes in. Three women love him: his wife, a reporter, and his police desk sergeant. They’re all in love with him on different levels. Far to say, this presents some uneasiness for Sam, who tries to understand the why.
Even though he jokes about the subconscious affairs going on that pop up to the surface, Sam is oblivious to the underlining affect. All the three women try to explain with some break through.
The advents in this light crime chronicle are appealing to the reader who wants to enjoy a read that is not over bearing with a blood and guts story. Heroes and Lovers is a fun read with some frills attached.
Heroes and Lovers
By Wayne Zurl
Reviewed by R. Murry
My uncle Lou used the word spiffy to infer that an individual had class, was cool, and had his act together. Yes, the 60’s. I’m dating myself again. I don’t think spiffy is a real word, but it describes Mr. Zurl’s character Sam Jenkins and spell check didn’t put a red line under spiffy. Sam is a hero with style.
Wayne’s characters come alive in a small Southern State in the United States of America where the day to day life of a relocated New York gray haired detective is accounted for. Criminal events happen that must be rectified. Mr. Zurl goes into some detail in his interview below. I won’t.
What I’ll say is the character Sam is the center of resolving crimes against his town where he is the Chief of Police. The whole story revolves around how he intellectually finds clues that others don’t see. Not because he is such a brain, but because of his investigative street smarts that they don’t have in the Smokies.
Sam’s wit is sometimes over bearing, but enjoyable to the reader. Not so for the other characters he is surrounded with. To them, he comes across as not being sensitive enough. He feels he is and can’t understand why they don’t get it.
Here’s where the love comes in. Three women love him: his wife, a reporter, and his police desk sergeant. They’re all in love with him on different levels. Far to say, this presents some uneasiness for Sam, who tries to understand the why.
Even though he jokes about the subconscious affairs going on that pop up to the surface, Sam is oblivious to the underlining affect. All the three women try to explain with some break through.
The advents in this light crime chronicle are appealing to the reader who wants to enjoy a read that is not over bearing with a blood and guts story. Heroes and Lovers is a fun read with some frills attached.
August 16, 2014
"Heroes and Lovers" is not a murder mystery, nor is it a cozy mystery. That said, the writing is reminiscent of the old Dragnet TV series of the 1960's while well-seated in modern America. Zurl writes what he knows with clarity.
Read full review in the 2012 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 Holiday issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 29, 2020
No more for me.
I have read three books in this series. I truly thought I would enjoy these books however, I have to admit I have had all I can take of Sam's non-stop joking and his disgusting flirting with every female he meets. I like stories to be on the lighter side, but Mr. Zurl has gone overboard to the point of ruining the story.
I have read three books in this series. I truly thought I would enjoy these books however, I have to admit I have had all I can take of Sam's non-stop joking and his disgusting flirting with every female he meets. I like stories to be on the lighter side, but Mr. Zurl has gone overboard to the point of ruining the story.
November 30, 2012
For sixty year old Prospect, Tennessee Police Chief Sam Jenkins, a fraud investigation at a local auto repair shop is anything but typical for the ex-New York Detective crime fighter. Sams offers his favorite TV news reporter, Rachel Williamson, an exclusive story about the fraud case, but his investigation puts Rachel in the wrong place at the wrong time when she is kidnapped and her cameraman is assaulted. Determined to find Rachel, Sam mobilizes his personnel at the Prospect PD and enlists the help from some friends in the FBI to help find her ... only to discover that not only is there a fraud investigation and a kidnapping he has to deal with but also a very active local drug trade as well.
Every once in a while a really good crime / police mystery comes along that just grabs your attention and doesn't let go until the end, and that is what Heroes & Lovers has done for me! This is the first Sam Jenkins Mystery novel that I have read, but it will not be the last. Author Wayne Zurl weaves an intriguing tale that is just a plain good ol' fashion mystery that could only be told by a person with years of prior police experience. The story is told in the first person narrative by the main character, Sam Jenkins, who takes the reader along for the ride on his latest investigation adventure. I really enjoyed the author's writing style: the mixture of humor, intrigue and romantic drama engages the reader, while the story has enough twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing what will happen next. With rich descriptions and details of the Great Smoky Mountains and rural Tennessee setting and dialect, to Sam's sarcastic personality and the witty banter between the characters, Heroes & Lovers is an entertaining story that crime/police mystery fans will thoroughly enjoy.
The author has created a realistic cast of characters who are well developed and easy for the reader to relate to. As a fan of Southern fiction, I absolutely loved the use of the local dialect. The authenticity of the language and descriptions of the local townspeople transports the reader to Prospect, Tennessee, where you feel like you are among the townspeople. Sam Jenkins is a real man with flaws but has a heart of gold. He has a witty personality, he's tough, smart and knows how to charm the ladies. He's a man that knows how to solve mysteries and takes the criminal justice system seriously. I really enjoyed the secondary cast of characters, especially Rachel and Sam's loving wife Katherine. The witty banter/dialogue and engaging interactions between the characters make Heroes & Lovers an entertaining mystery novel that you won't be able to put down! I look forward to following Sam on his next adventure!
Disclaimer: I have received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book! Virtual Book Publicity Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Every once in a while a really good crime / police mystery comes along that just grabs your attention and doesn't let go until the end, and that is what Heroes & Lovers has done for me! This is the first Sam Jenkins Mystery novel that I have read, but it will not be the last. Author Wayne Zurl weaves an intriguing tale that is just a plain good ol' fashion mystery that could only be told by a person with years of prior police experience. The story is told in the first person narrative by the main character, Sam Jenkins, who takes the reader along for the ride on his latest investigation adventure. I really enjoyed the author's writing style: the mixture of humor, intrigue and romantic drama engages the reader, while the story has enough twists and turns that keeps the reader guessing what will happen next. With rich descriptions and details of the Great Smoky Mountains and rural Tennessee setting and dialect, to Sam's sarcastic personality and the witty banter between the characters, Heroes & Lovers is an entertaining story that crime/police mystery fans will thoroughly enjoy.
The author has created a realistic cast of characters who are well developed and easy for the reader to relate to. As a fan of Southern fiction, I absolutely loved the use of the local dialect. The authenticity of the language and descriptions of the local townspeople transports the reader to Prospect, Tennessee, where you feel like you are among the townspeople. Sam Jenkins is a real man with flaws but has a heart of gold. He has a witty personality, he's tough, smart and knows how to charm the ladies. He's a man that knows how to solve mysteries and takes the criminal justice system seriously. I really enjoyed the secondary cast of characters, especially Rachel and Sam's loving wife Katherine. The witty banter/dialogue and engaging interactions between the characters make Heroes & Lovers an entertaining mystery novel that you won't be able to put down! I look forward to following Sam on his next adventure!
Disclaimer: I have received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book! Virtual Book Publicity Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
May 14, 2013
When I first picked this book up I wasn't sure that I would like it - I don't usually read crime thrillers, and as this one is part of a series I was also a bit concerned I might be missing part of the backstory. I need not have worried. I was immediately gripped by the fast-paced, wise-cracking prose. In Sam Jenkins Zurl has created a very engaging character, full of banter and repartee which he deploys with equal measures of charm, paternalism and overt (but somehow OK sexism?!) on his female colleague Bettye, his Reporter buddy Rachel and his wife Kathrine. All women give as good as they get. The sexual chemistry and tension between Sam and Rachel and his relationship with his wife felt believable and sincere.
One of the main things that struck me about Zurl's writing is the zingy dialogue - it kept the pace up throughout the novel and brought the characters to life. The counter balance between Sam's NY accent and the locals 'Clampet-esque' dialogue was very entertaining and yet never felt like it was done at the expense of the locals.
Far from just being a wise-assed cop, Sam also comes across as a complicated and quirky character, with that kind of suppressed male emotional depth! There is a particular scene I am thinking of when Bettye and Kathrine gang up on him in a female conspiracy to explain Rachel's emotional state, and Sam realises that he is out of his depth, but knows he has to listen up and do the right thing!
As with most Cop Thrillers there are a few tropes - he has come out of retirement (I think the public must have a soft spot for retired cops). He is a city cop in a rural patch. He doesn't always play by the rules - in fact sometimes throws them (and the odd suspect) out of the window. He also the jaded cops eye for detail. But I can honestly say, that in Zurl's capable hands none of these elements felt clichéd.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fast-paced, thrilling and humorous novel and would definitely pick up another Sam Jenkins mystery without any prompting.
One of the main things that struck me about Zurl's writing is the zingy dialogue - it kept the pace up throughout the novel and brought the characters to life. The counter balance between Sam's NY accent and the locals 'Clampet-esque' dialogue was very entertaining and yet never felt like it was done at the expense of the locals.
Far from just being a wise-assed cop, Sam also comes across as a complicated and quirky character, with that kind of suppressed male emotional depth! There is a particular scene I am thinking of when Bettye and Kathrine gang up on him in a female conspiracy to explain Rachel's emotional state, and Sam realises that he is out of his depth, but knows he has to listen up and do the right thing!
As with most Cop Thrillers there are a few tropes - he has come out of retirement (I think the public must have a soft spot for retired cops). He is a city cop in a rural patch. He doesn't always play by the rules - in fact sometimes throws them (and the odd suspect) out of the window. He also the jaded cops eye for detail. But I can honestly say, that in Zurl's capable hands none of these elements felt clichéd.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fast-paced, thrilling and humorous novel and would definitely pick up another Sam Jenkins mystery without any prompting.
November 7, 2012
Heroes and Lovers by Wayne Zurl is at heart one of the many, many police procedurals out there. I've read good ones and bad ones, ones I can't remember and ones that have gotten stuck in my head for various reasons. So the question becomes what makes this one stand out? And it has to be Sam Jenkins, police chief of the small town of Propect, Tennessee.
Sam is a charming man and he knows it. He has a penchant for doing impersonations and flirting with every attractive woman in sight. He's also a hero, a man determined to save the day, arrest the bad guy, make sure the victims get the help the need. He might be a little over the top, but he makes me smile.
While the center of this mystery is first off who kidnapped Rachel and how can they rescue here, it also deals with emotions. Sam and his wife have been happily married for years, but his attraction to Rachel is more than a little distracting. Actually, I was a little annoyed by this. I didn't picture Sam as a man who would take another woman out to dinner without at least mentioning it to his wife. It bothered me for parts of the book, but I like how Zurl wrapped it all up in the end, both the basic plot and the add-ons, the messier bits that make a story full and engrossing.
This is the third Sam Jenkins mystery I've read and I definitely enjoyed it. It would easily work as a stand alone, although like with most series, you get more feeling for the characters the more of the stories you read. I love the Smoky Mountains setting, the mix of local folks and Jenkins and his wife. A couple of minor complaints. I wish the proof-reading had been a little better. There were several glaring mistakes, not enough for them to disturb my reading but too big to just gloss over. Second, the characters speak in the local dialect, which is fine, but I felt like at times it was overdone, a little too many fers and darlin's.
Sam is a charming man and he knows it. He has a penchant for doing impersonations and flirting with every attractive woman in sight. He's also a hero, a man determined to save the day, arrest the bad guy, make sure the victims get the help the need. He might be a little over the top, but he makes me smile.
While the center of this mystery is first off who kidnapped Rachel and how can they rescue here, it also deals with emotions. Sam and his wife have been happily married for years, but his attraction to Rachel is more than a little distracting. Actually, I was a little annoyed by this. I didn't picture Sam as a man who would take another woman out to dinner without at least mentioning it to his wife. It bothered me for parts of the book, but I like how Zurl wrapped it all up in the end, both the basic plot and the add-ons, the messier bits that make a story full and engrossing.
This is the third Sam Jenkins mystery I've read and I definitely enjoyed it. It would easily work as a stand alone, although like with most series, you get more feeling for the characters the more of the stories you read. I love the Smoky Mountains setting, the mix of local folks and Jenkins and his wife. A couple of minor complaints. I wish the proof-reading had been a little better. There were several glaring mistakes, not enough for them to disturb my reading but too big to just gloss over. Second, the characters speak in the local dialect, which is fine, but I felt like at times it was overdone, a little too many fers and darlin's.
June 3, 2013
"High Crime Mystery, One of the Best"
In this full length crime mystery written by professional law-enforcer-turned author, Wayne Zurl, there is much wrongdoing that falls on Chief of Police Sam Jenkins during the holiday season. One crime involves a local transmission shop where customers are being defrauded. The owner pretends to replace transmissions (when it's not necessary) and charges big fees, primarily women customers. Sam sets up a sting operation and has enough evidence against owner, Elrod Swaggerty. Another vicious crime is when one of Sam's best lady friends, TV reporter Rachel Williamson, is kidnapped while her camera man is vicious attacked and has to go to hospital for severe head wounds. Sam shows another side of his sweet, humorous, side. He can be tough, even tends to be vicious himself when it comes to one of his favorite female's life being threatened. And, there is also a case of a young gal who is into selling drugs, who has yet confessed the name of her dealer. One thing for sure, if a gal is no lady, Sam will definitely not take a liking to you! The three ladies he literally loves is Katherine, his very wise and supportive wife; Rachel Williamson who I really feel Sam thinks more as a daughter who he wants to protect; and, of course, his devoted Desk Sergeant, Bettye. These three women have always helped him solve crimes, and now his one desire for all of them is to not have any harm come to them. When Sam seems to get a little amorous with women, Katherine always knows how to take him down a peg, i.e., "Sam, you look as spray as Walter Brennan." As always, Wayne Zurl knows how to entertain readers just as he solved crimes in his real life career as a New York detective. He is so talented, the stories are well edited, and I highly recommend others to read his mysteries. They're ALL great!
In this full length crime mystery written by professional law-enforcer-turned author, Wayne Zurl, there is much wrongdoing that falls on Chief of Police Sam Jenkins during the holiday season. One crime involves a local transmission shop where customers are being defrauded. The owner pretends to replace transmissions (when it's not necessary) and charges big fees, primarily women customers. Sam sets up a sting operation and has enough evidence against owner, Elrod Swaggerty. Another vicious crime is when one of Sam's best lady friends, TV reporter Rachel Williamson, is kidnapped while her camera man is vicious attacked and has to go to hospital for severe head wounds. Sam shows another side of his sweet, humorous, side. He can be tough, even tends to be vicious himself when it comes to one of his favorite female's life being threatened. And, there is also a case of a young gal who is into selling drugs, who has yet confessed the name of her dealer. One thing for sure, if a gal is no lady, Sam will definitely not take a liking to you! The three ladies he literally loves is Katherine, his very wise and supportive wife; Rachel Williamson who I really feel Sam thinks more as a daughter who he wants to protect; and, of course, his devoted Desk Sergeant, Bettye. These three women have always helped him solve crimes, and now his one desire for all of them is to not have any harm come to them. When Sam seems to get a little amorous with women, Katherine always knows how to take him down a peg, i.e., "Sam, you look as spray as Walter Brennan." As always, Wayne Zurl knows how to entertain readers just as he solved crimes in his real life career as a New York detective. He is so talented, the stories are well edited, and I highly recommend others to read his mysteries. They're ALL great!
June 10, 2013
"High Crime Mystery, One of the Best"
In this full length crime mystery written by professional law-enforcer-turned author, Wayne Zurl, there is much wrongdoing that falls on Chief of Police Sam Jenkins during the holiday season. One crime involves a local transmission shop where customers are being defrauded. The owner pretends to replace transmissions (when it's not necessary) and charges big fees, primarily women customers. Sam sets up a sting operation and has enough evidence against owner, Elrod Swaggerty. Another vicious crime is when one of Sam's best lady friends, TV reporter Rachel Williamson, is kidnapped while her camera man is vicious attacked and has to go to hospital for severe head wounds. Sam shows another side of his sweet, humorous, side. He can be tough, even tends to be vicious himself when it comes to one of his favorite female's life being threatened. And, there is also a case of a young gal who is into selling drugs, who has yet confessed the name of her dealer. One thing for sure, if a gal is no lady, Sam will definitely not take a liking to you! The three ladies he literally loves is Katherine, his very wise and supportive wife; Rachel Williamson who I really feel Sam thinks more as a daughter who he wants to protect; and, of course, his devoted Desk Sergeant, Bettye. These three women have always helped him solve crimes, and now his one desire for all of them is to not have any harm come to them. When Sam seems to get a little amorous with women, Katherine always knows how to take him down a peg, i.e., "Sam, you look as spray as Walter Brennan." As always, Wayne Zurl knows how to entertain readers just as he solved crimes in his real life career as a New York detective. He is so talented, the stories are well edited, and I highly recommend others to read his mysteries. They're ALL great!
In this full length crime mystery written by professional law-enforcer-turned author, Wayne Zurl, there is much wrongdoing that falls on Chief of Police Sam Jenkins during the holiday season. One crime involves a local transmission shop where customers are being defrauded. The owner pretends to replace transmissions (when it's not necessary) and charges big fees, primarily women customers. Sam sets up a sting operation and has enough evidence against owner, Elrod Swaggerty. Another vicious crime is when one of Sam's best lady friends, TV reporter Rachel Williamson, is kidnapped while her camera man is vicious attacked and has to go to hospital for severe head wounds. Sam shows another side of his sweet, humorous, side. He can be tough, even tends to be vicious himself when it comes to one of his favorite female's life being threatened. And, there is also a case of a young gal who is into selling drugs, who has yet confessed the name of her dealer. One thing for sure, if a gal is no lady, Sam will definitely not take a liking to you! The three ladies he literally loves is Katherine, his very wise and supportive wife; Rachel Williamson who I really feel Sam thinks more as a daughter who he wants to protect; and, of course, his devoted Desk Sergeant, Bettye. These three women have always helped him solve crimes, and now his one desire for all of them is to not have any harm come to them. When Sam seems to get a little amorous with women, Katherine always knows how to take him down a peg, i.e., "Sam, you look as spray as Walter Brennan." As always, Wayne Zurl knows how to entertain readers just as he solved crimes in his real life career as a New York detective. He is so talented, the stories are well edited, and I highly recommend others to read his mysteries. They're ALL great!
October 6, 2012
“Heroes and Lovers” is the third book in Wayne Zurl's mystery series that I’ve read, and I’ve enjoyed all of them. Author Wayne Zurl has created an original character, Sam Jenkins, the Police Chief in the small town of Prospect, Tennessee and a fictional world in which he solves the cases that come up in his surprisingly busy local criminal community. Zurl captures the regional southeast flavor in his characters’ individual dialects, in his descriptive writing, and in his obvious affection for the locals. In this entry Sam has to solve the kidnapping of his friend, a local TV anchorwoman, and the assault of her cameraman, by person or persons unknown. Mix in a crooked car repairman, an active local drug trade in oxycontin and codeine derivatives, political interference, an attractive police sergeant who is Jenkins’ on again-off again partner, the FBI, and a lot of colorful local characters and you have the makings for an entertaining story. I especially appreciated the satisfying ending, where several loose ends from the complex plot are all brought together.
The Sam Jenkins character makes all of this work. A former big city police lieutenant who retired to the heartland of small town America, he’s now unretired and on the job as a lot better police chief than Prospect deserves to have. He’s tough, smart, good looking, not burdened with false modesty, and has a heart of gold. He's beloved by all of the women he meets. What’s not to like about him as a series character? The genre is police procedural, but with enough character development of the series regulars to make the books a lot more exciting than is often the case in this genre.
I liked this book a lot. Highly recommended.
The Sam Jenkins character makes all of this work. A former big city police lieutenant who retired to the heartland of small town America, he’s now unretired and on the job as a lot better police chief than Prospect deserves to have. He’s tough, smart, good looking, not burdened with false modesty, and has a heart of gold. He's beloved by all of the women he meets. What’s not to like about him as a series character? The genre is police procedural, but with enough character development of the series regulars to make the books a lot more exciting than is often the case in this genre.
I liked this book a lot. Highly recommended.
November 16, 2012
When Police Chief Sam Jenkins invites reporter and friend Rachel Williamson to cover a fraud investigation at a local auto repair shop, he figures he's doing her a favor. But when she is kidnapped and her cameraman assaulted, he is determined to find her and make up for putting her in harm's way.
Heroes & Lovers by Wayne Zurl is the third Sam Jenkins mystery I've read. It was fun getting back together with the lively characters that are part of this series, but I have to say I didn't enjoy this one as much as the last two. I think part of the issue was the relationship that was explored between Sam and Rachel. In the other books, the two flirt and Sam makes some rather inappropriate comments; but that's what makes Sam endearing. In Heroes & Lovers, they cross the line slightly, and that honestly turned me off. I had a hard time getting into the storyline because of that, although I was happy with the way things were resolved in the end.
The mystery aspect of the novel kept me interested. Sam, Bettye and the rest of the Prospect Police Department all pull together to figure out who took Rachel and where they can find her. As with the other Sam Jenkins mysteries, Zurl uses a lot of dialog to really build the characters and their personalities. Sam is a smart-ass most of the time, and Zurl's portrayal of the other characters, especially the southerners, is always fun to read.
In the end, I'd highly recommend the Sam Jenkins series for those who like a more cozy mystery set in the rural south. This isn't the best in the series, but it's still a fun read if you don't get too hung up on the characters' morals!
3 1/2 stars
Heroes & Lovers by Wayne Zurl is the third Sam Jenkins mystery I've read. It was fun getting back together with the lively characters that are part of this series, but I have to say I didn't enjoy this one as much as the last two. I think part of the issue was the relationship that was explored between Sam and Rachel. In the other books, the two flirt and Sam makes some rather inappropriate comments; but that's what makes Sam endearing. In Heroes & Lovers, they cross the line slightly, and that honestly turned me off. I had a hard time getting into the storyline because of that, although I was happy with the way things were resolved in the end.
The mystery aspect of the novel kept me interested. Sam, Bettye and the rest of the Prospect Police Department all pull together to figure out who took Rachel and where they can find her. As with the other Sam Jenkins mysteries, Zurl uses a lot of dialog to really build the characters and their personalities. Sam is a smart-ass most of the time, and Zurl's portrayal of the other characters, especially the southerners, is always fun to read.
In the end, I'd highly recommend the Sam Jenkins series for those who like a more cozy mystery set in the rural south. This isn't the best in the series, but it's still a fun read if you don't get too hung up on the characters' morals!
3 1/2 stars
November 16, 2012
Sam is a 60-year-old police chief in a small town in Tennessee. In the past, he was in the army and a New York cop ... which he brings into action when he needs to. He doesn't hesitate to rough someone up a bit to get the information he wants. He's been married to Kate for almost forty years.
Rachel is younger than Sam and is a TV reporter, married to Boyd and mother of two sons. Though Sam and Rachel love their spouses, there is an attraction between them that they both know is there and enjoy but they don't cross the line.
When Sam discovers that a garage in town is ripping off women who bring in their cars, he investigates and gets the proof. He lets Rachel in on it so she can report on it. But something goes wrong. John, her cameraman, gets knocked out and Rachel gets kidnapped. Was it the owner of the garage? Or was it someone from one of the stories she had investigated in the past? Because of their special connection, Sam is determine to find her.
I liked the writing style. It is funny and sarcastic at times. Given the storyline, though, the writing style didn't pull me in as a story like this usually does ... I found it less intense, probably given the locale and the fact the author actually lives there. When the locals speak, it is written phonetically so you get a feel of how the conversation actually is. Despite being a tough guy, Sam can be quite a charmer to the ladies. There is some mature language.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2012/11...
Rachel is younger than Sam and is a TV reporter, married to Boyd and mother of two sons. Though Sam and Rachel love their spouses, there is an attraction between them that they both know is there and enjoy but they don't cross the line.
When Sam discovers that a garage in town is ripping off women who bring in their cars, he investigates and gets the proof. He lets Rachel in on it so she can report on it. But something goes wrong. John, her cameraman, gets knocked out and Rachel gets kidnapped. Was it the owner of the garage? Or was it someone from one of the stories she had investigated in the past? Because of their special connection, Sam is determine to find her.
I liked the writing style. It is funny and sarcastic at times. Given the storyline, though, the writing style didn't pull me in as a story like this usually does ... I found it less intense, probably given the locale and the fact the author actually lives there. When the locals speak, it is written phonetically so you get a feel of how the conversation actually is. Despite being a tough guy, Sam can be quite a charmer to the ladies. There is some mature language.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2012/11...
December 25, 2012
I read and reviewed the first Sam Jenkins’ novel, A New Prospect, late last year for Night Owl Reviews and loved it. So, needless to say, I was thrilled when I was offered the opportunity to read this book and be a host for Mr. Zurl’s new tour with Pump Up Your Books. Sam remains one of my favorite fictional lawmen. I worried occasionally that my image of him would become a bit tarnished because of his attraction to and flirtation with Rachel, a young, beautiful and energetic Reporter. Sam is such an honest, shoot-from-the-hip fellow that I sometimes had difficulty accepting the chemistry that flared between him and Rachel. Rachel is almost young enough to be his daughter, and Sam’s marriage is strong. Sam grapples with some basic issues of right and wrong then makes his choices, obviously in regards to Rachel, but also at other pivotal moments, too
Sam is not swayed by power or money to any unhealthy degree. He is beginning to feel his age, yet still, he is a tenacious problem solver, a formidable opponent; his mental acumen is exceptional. Mr. Zurl weaves a spell-binding story that satisfied me in multiple ways. The pacing and the plot make this imminently readable, but it is the characters that contributed the spit and polish, making this novel shine.
This book was given to me by the author in return for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
Sam is not swayed by power or money to any unhealthy degree. He is beginning to feel his age, yet still, he is a tenacious problem solver, a formidable opponent; his mental acumen is exceptional. Mr. Zurl weaves a spell-binding story that satisfied me in multiple ways. The pacing and the plot make this imminently readable, but it is the characters that contributed the spit and polish, making this novel shine.
This book was given to me by the author in return for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
May 3, 2020
This is my third book of this series and have to say I am more and more impressed with the series as it continues. The characters continue to develop through the books, not only the main character but also the supporting characters and the peripheral characters that are introduced in these books are not stereotyped either. You see these people as individuals.
For this book specifically, I liked the main plot line very well and the various threads of the plot and the personal involvement of the characters kept the storyline interesting.
I have to say that I am incredibly pleased to find a series with a mature, sensible, happily married and experienced police officer as the main character without the addition of family issues, marriage issues, alcohol or drug or PTSD issues. Sam Jenkins is defined by his competence and basic normality rather than his struggles with addictions or psychological traumas. I found both the situation with the ex-cop/kidnapper and the involvement between the kidnapped woman and Sam very competently written.
Still a little heavy with the southern dialect, though better than the first two books and the 'witty' repartee Sam engages nearly everyone with tends to occasionally drag just a bit, but those are very minor issues for me.
For this book specifically, I liked the main plot line very well and the various threads of the plot and the personal involvement of the characters kept the storyline interesting.
I have to say that I am incredibly pleased to find a series with a mature, sensible, happily married and experienced police officer as the main character without the addition of family issues, marriage issues, alcohol or drug or PTSD issues. Sam Jenkins is defined by his competence and basic normality rather than his struggles with addictions or psychological traumas. I found both the situation with the ex-cop/kidnapper and the involvement between the kidnapped woman and Sam very competently written.
Still a little heavy with the southern dialect, though better than the first two books and the 'witty' repartee Sam engages nearly everyone with tends to occasionally drag just a bit, but those are very minor issues for me.
November 20, 2012
Heroes and Lovers is the second Sam Jenkins book that I have read. I enjoyed this book as much as I enjoyed reading my first Sam Jenkins novel, A Leprechaun's Lament.
What starts out as a simple investigation of a crooked repair shop by Police Chief Sam Jenkins, of Prospect, TN, turns into the kidnapping of Sam's favorite news reporter and eventually leads to a drug bust in Prospect. Life is never simple for Sam and his friends.
Sam took this case very personally since the victims were his friends and in one case, while not his friend, someone that Sam could understand where his head was. This is very different from how he investigated other crimes in Prospect and prior to that, New York.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a good mystery that kept my attention from start to finish. I wasn't expecting it to end the way that it did. Always a good sign! I loved all of the old detective references that Sam was making. I was happy to return to Prospect to visit with everyone.
FTC Notice: I received a copy of this book from the author.
What starts out as a simple investigation of a crooked repair shop by Police Chief Sam Jenkins, of Prospect, TN, turns into the kidnapping of Sam's favorite news reporter and eventually leads to a drug bust in Prospect. Life is never simple for Sam and his friends.
Sam took this case very personally since the victims were his friends and in one case, while not his friend, someone that Sam could understand where his head was. This is very different from how he investigated other crimes in Prospect and prior to that, New York.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a good mystery that kept my attention from start to finish. I wasn't expecting it to end the way that it did. Always a good sign! I loved all of the old detective references that Sam was making. I was happy to return to Prospect to visit with everyone.
FTC Notice: I received a copy of this book from the author.
August 3, 2016
The author, Wayne Zurl, gave me a copy of this novel in exchange for my review.
I have not read the first two books in the Sam Jenkin’s series. The benefit of reading the third book in the series first is that readers coming into the series for the first time are able to get to know Sam gradually through his movement in the story line. A less talented caricaturist may leave the reader feeling as though something is missed but “Heroes and Lovers” is an easy stand-alone novel. Sam Jenkins is a classic fiction mystery antagonist with the bearing of a Walt Longmire (Craig Johnson) or Harry Bosch (Michael Connelly); a classic law enforcement good guy with an uncommon spirit.
From beginning to end, “Heroes and Lovers” is a great mystery novel and one that will stay with the reader and inspire a need to spend more time with Sam Jenkins and crew in their world. I will be buying the rest of the series and it is one that I will buy on release day. If you’re a fan of really good mystery novels, solid police procedurals and character driven stories, pick “Heroes and Lovers” up today.
I have not read the first two books in the Sam Jenkin’s series. The benefit of reading the third book in the series first is that readers coming into the series for the first time are able to get to know Sam gradually through his movement in the story line. A less talented caricaturist may leave the reader feeling as though something is missed but “Heroes and Lovers” is an easy stand-alone novel. Sam Jenkins is a classic fiction mystery antagonist with the bearing of a Walt Longmire (Craig Johnson) or Harry Bosch (Michael Connelly); a classic law enforcement good guy with an uncommon spirit.
From beginning to end, “Heroes and Lovers” is a great mystery novel and one that will stay with the reader and inspire a need to spend more time with Sam Jenkins and crew in their world. I will be buying the rest of the series and it is one that I will buy on release day. If you’re a fan of really good mystery novels, solid police procedurals and character driven stories, pick “Heroes and Lovers” up today.
November 16, 2012
Heroes and Lovers by Wayne Zurl is the third book in the Sam Jenkins series and the third I have read...with the hopes that there are more to come in this delightful story. This time Sam Jenkins has to rescue a TV reporter from her kidnapper. A cast of great characters, and some not so great characters that make the book a page turner. I love Sams wit and humor along with his ability to see what other's may not. He is charming and lovable and of course the ladies all love him and I like that in spite of his charm he is faithful to his wife Katherine, who may have a smaller role in the story but definitely not a minor role in Sam's life. New Prospect is generally a quiet community but there are still some lowlifes that crop up every so often like a shady auto repair shop owner and of course the drug dealer. But Sam wins out and gets his man or woman. The ending came together nicely and I hope that there is another book in the works.
November 21, 2012
Heroes & Lovers is another Sam Jenkins mystery, and Wayne Zurl doesn't disappoint. The more we get to know Sam, the more we like him. He's a laid back type of hero, but he has his flaws. He also has a weakness for a pretty woman, which tends to get him in trouble from time to time because he has a beautiful wife waiting for him at home. But Sam is human, and life happens.
Wayne's characters are always likeable, and I'm a fan of the use of dialect. Wayne has the Tennessee speech down perfect. Being a retired police officer, he knows police procedure. And he's great at combining these elements and coming out with a good mystery. You read one Sam Jenkins story, and you'll want to read them all. The series is fictional, but the books always read like real life.
If you like well-developed characters, witty banter, and a good mystery, you'll love books by Wayne Zurl, and Heroes & Lovers is no exception. Highly enjoyable.
Wayne's characters are always likeable, and I'm a fan of the use of dialect. Wayne has the Tennessee speech down perfect. Being a retired police officer, he knows police procedure. And he's great at combining these elements and coming out with a good mystery. You read one Sam Jenkins story, and you'll want to read them all. The series is fictional, but the books always read like real life.
If you like well-developed characters, witty banter, and a good mystery, you'll love books by Wayne Zurl, and Heroes & Lovers is no exception. Highly enjoyable.
October 17, 2012
I've read several of these books in the series, they tend to be novellas and always leave me wanting more. Heroes & Lovers is a longer book and I got just what I wanted, more, more and more. The characters are well developed and the relationships are believable and enjoyable. Sam is faced with a kidnapping of a dear friend, who is a bit more than a friend, forcing him to realize and analyze the relationship and make the right decisions, not just for himself, but for everyone around him. This story takes you on twists and turns that are unexpected, making the book hard to put down. Another great job by Wayne Zurl!
February 9, 2017
It just keeps getting better
This author specializes in humorous dialect while mesmerising you're interest with his intellectually creative writing skills.
If you like a good mystery novel you've got to give this author a read I'm on to book four.
I can't get enough! Great Stuff.
This author specializes in humorous dialect while mesmerising you're interest with his intellectually creative writing skills.
If you like a good mystery novel you've got to give this author a read I'm on to book four.
I can't get enough! Great Stuff.
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