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Angus Green #1
The Next One Will Kill You
If Angus Green is going to make it to a second case, he's needs to survive the first one.
Angus wants more adventure than a boring accounting job, so after graduating with his master's degree he signs up with the FBI. He's assigned to the Miami field office, where the caseload includes smugglers, drug runners, and gangs, but he starts out stuck behind a desk, an accountant with a badge and gun.
Struggling to raise money for his little brother's college tuition, he enters a strip trivia contest at a local bar. But when he's caught with his pants down by a couple of fellow agents, he worries that his extracurricular activities and his status as the only openly gay agent will crash his career. Instead, to his surprise, he's added to an anti-terrorism task force and directed to find a missing informant.
It's his first real a desperate chase to catch a gang of criminals with their tentacles in everything from medical fraud to drugs to jewel theft. With every corner in this case-from Fort Lauderdale's gay bars to the morgue-turning to mayhem, Angus quickly learns that the only way to face a challenge is to assume that he'll survive this one-it's the next one that will kill him.
Angus wants more adventure than a boring accounting job, so after graduating with his master's degree he signs up with the FBI. He's assigned to the Miami field office, where the caseload includes smugglers, drug runners, and gangs, but he starts out stuck behind a desk, an accountant with a badge and gun.
Struggling to raise money for his little brother's college tuition, he enters a strip trivia contest at a local bar. But when he's caught with his pants down by a couple of fellow agents, he worries that his extracurricular activities and his status as the only openly gay agent will crash his career. Instead, to his surprise, he's added to an anti-terrorism task force and directed to find a missing informant.
It's his first real a desperate chase to catch a gang of criminals with their tentacles in everything from medical fraud to drugs to jewel theft. With every corner in this case-from Fort Lauderdale's gay bars to the morgue-turning to mayhem, Angus quickly learns that the only way to face a challenge is to assume that he'll survive this one-it's the next one that will kill him.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2016
124 people are currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Neil S. Plakcy
238 books649 followersI have been a voracious reader all my life, mostly in mystery, romance, and science fiction/fantasy, though a college degree in English did push a lot of literary works into my list of favorites.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
November 15, 2016
The Next One Will Kill You
By Neil Plakcy
Diversion Books, 2016
ISBN: 978-1-68230-300-9
Five stars
So, reading the first book in a new series, even by an author I admire tremendously, is always an anxious moment. As I began “The Next One Will Kill You,” I was wondering if I’d be able to add Angus Green to the list of memorable central characters with whom I’d more or less fallen in love over the years. It helps that Angus is a redhead, a particular weakness for me. The fact that he’s an enthusiastic, if somewhat innocent and feckless, FBI rookie, was neither positive nor negative.
My first long-term romance was with Ms. Lanyon’s Adrien English in that epic series of action-packed and beautifully written books. Next was Neil Plakcy’s Kimo Kanapa’aka, who before my eyes evolved from a closeted cop struggling with himself into an out and proud role model for gay youth in Honolulu. I still think the “Mahu” series is one of the great moments in gay lit of the early 21st century. Finally, I fell for Harper Fox’s Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack, the quirky and very small-town duo who perfectly expressed Ms. Fox’s unequalled writing talent and her astonishing sense of place and character.
So, that’s a lot to live up to, right? And yet, my hesitation faded away as I read through “The Next One Will Kill You,” and watched Angus Green grow into someone strong and mature and compassionate. Plakcy has tackled a particularly difficult plotline in this first of the series; but he uses all of the difficulties to shed a strong, laser-sharp light on Angus’s character. In the end, Angus Green proves himself, not only to Roly and Vito, his FBI superiors and mentors, but to Plakcy’s readers. This guy’s a keeper.
Two personal red flags popped up in the course of Plakcy’s narrative. First was the nickname for older gay men who live in the Fort Lauderdale suburb of Wilton Manors: Wilted Flowers, meaning those gay men “who had been handsome once, but whose looks had faded with age.” This is a motif reiterated in the course of Angus’s work—as he investigates in the very bars where, as a hot twenty-something, he cruises and drinks. Being a wilted flower myself, I know exactly how painful the realization of invisibility is for a gay man; that moment when you first understand you are no longer relevant to the lives of the kind of young gay man you once were.
Thankfully, Plakcy handles this pretty well, introducing the character Tom, a sixty-something, well-to-do retired corporate executive, who inadvertently comes to play a significant role in Angus’s case. The interaction between Angus and Tom—who could be Angus’s father—is sympathetic, and led me to hope that Tom might appear in futures books, simply as a friend. In the course of the book Angus wonders if his non-FBI life of tricking and bar-hopping is too ghettoized. It seems to me that by building a network of friends from different parts of the gay community, Angus might himself become a broader, better person. We’ll see where that goes.
The second red flag was the notion of gay criminals, which forms part of one of the major narrative threads. In spite of having the main hero being young and gay, I’m never really happy with bad gays—although I know they have to exist. To my surprise, Plakcy negotiated this self-created minefield in such a way that it became part of my growing fondness for Angus and his evolving maturity as a man and an agent. I was really impressed, but can say no more without spoiling things.
This also brings to mind the fascinating plotline involving three Orthodox Jewish Mexican jewelry dealers, the Levy brothers. Now, I know something about the immigration of European Jews to Latin America during and after World War II, and I also know quite a bit about the jewelry trade. Plakcy (with only one little error, to my mind) handled this potentially fraught story arc in a way that informed me and added substantial realism to the book.
Finally, there’s Lester, the muscular bouncer at one of the bars Angus investigates. Lester’s role in a little minimal in this first book, but it seems clear that we’re going to see him again. I want to encourage Neil to keep him here. I want to get to know him better. I like him. In fact, there’s a lot about this book and this series that I like.
I think I’m ready to fall in love again. Make it happen, Neil.
By Neil Plakcy
Diversion Books, 2016
ISBN: 978-1-68230-300-9
Five stars
So, reading the first book in a new series, even by an author I admire tremendously, is always an anxious moment. As I began “The Next One Will Kill You,” I was wondering if I’d be able to add Angus Green to the list of memorable central characters with whom I’d more or less fallen in love over the years. It helps that Angus is a redhead, a particular weakness for me. The fact that he’s an enthusiastic, if somewhat innocent and feckless, FBI rookie, was neither positive nor negative.
My first long-term romance was with Ms. Lanyon’s Adrien English in that epic series of action-packed and beautifully written books. Next was Neil Plakcy’s Kimo Kanapa’aka, who before my eyes evolved from a closeted cop struggling with himself into an out and proud role model for gay youth in Honolulu. I still think the “Mahu” series is one of the great moments in gay lit of the early 21st century. Finally, I fell for Harper Fox’s Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack, the quirky and very small-town duo who perfectly expressed Ms. Fox’s unequalled writing talent and her astonishing sense of place and character.
So, that’s a lot to live up to, right? And yet, my hesitation faded away as I read through “The Next One Will Kill You,” and watched Angus Green grow into someone strong and mature and compassionate. Plakcy has tackled a particularly difficult plotline in this first of the series; but he uses all of the difficulties to shed a strong, laser-sharp light on Angus’s character. In the end, Angus Green proves himself, not only to Roly and Vito, his FBI superiors and mentors, but to Plakcy’s readers. This guy’s a keeper.
Two personal red flags popped up in the course of Plakcy’s narrative. First was the nickname for older gay men who live in the Fort Lauderdale suburb of Wilton Manors: Wilted Flowers, meaning those gay men “who had been handsome once, but whose looks had faded with age.” This is a motif reiterated in the course of Angus’s work—as he investigates in the very bars where, as a hot twenty-something, he cruises and drinks. Being a wilted flower myself, I know exactly how painful the realization of invisibility is for a gay man; that moment when you first understand you are no longer relevant to the lives of the kind of young gay man you once were.
Thankfully, Plakcy handles this pretty well, introducing the character Tom, a sixty-something, well-to-do retired corporate executive, who inadvertently comes to play a significant role in Angus’s case. The interaction between Angus and Tom—who could be Angus’s father—is sympathetic, and led me to hope that Tom might appear in futures books, simply as a friend. In the course of the book Angus wonders if his non-FBI life of tricking and bar-hopping is too ghettoized. It seems to me that by building a network of friends from different parts of the gay community, Angus might himself become a broader, better person. We’ll see where that goes.
The second red flag was the notion of gay criminals, which forms part of one of the major narrative threads. In spite of having the main hero being young and gay, I’m never really happy with bad gays—although I know they have to exist. To my surprise, Plakcy negotiated this self-created minefield in such a way that it became part of my growing fondness for Angus and his evolving maturity as a man and an agent. I was really impressed, but can say no more without spoiling things.
This also brings to mind the fascinating plotline involving three Orthodox Jewish Mexican jewelry dealers, the Levy brothers. Now, I know something about the immigration of European Jews to Latin America during and after World War II, and I also know quite a bit about the jewelry trade. Plakcy (with only one little error, to my mind) handled this potentially fraught story arc in a way that informed me and added substantial realism to the book.
Finally, there’s Lester, the muscular bouncer at one of the bars Angus investigates. Lester’s role in a little minimal in this first book, but it seems clear that we’re going to see him again. I want to encourage Neil to keep him here. I want to get to know him better. I like him. In fact, there’s a lot about this book and this series that I like.
I think I’m ready to fall in love again. Make it happen, Neil.
November 16, 2016
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 mystery ridden shining stars because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and because I want to.
A new series from an established author...
'The Next One Will Kill You' was my first time reading this author and while it wasn't quite what I was expecting I definitely enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more.
Angus Green is new to the FBI and so far he's spent most of his time behind a desk analyzing data. Things change rather quickly for him when a couple of fellow agents approach him at 'Lazy Dicks' the local gay bar where he's entered into a strip trivia contest in the hopes of winning money for his little brother's trip to Italy. Angus isn't sure if this is going to be the beginning or the end of his career as an FBI agent. He's always been out so being gay isn't a secret...nope his concern is that entering a strip trivia contest even though he won and got to keep some of his clothes on might not go over well with the powers that be at the FBI. Much to his relief it's being gay that has put him on the radar of his fellow agents who are in need of his assistance.
Angus suddenly goes from being a desk jockey to an active field agent in a matter of minutes, life is getting busy and while he does make mistakes...gasp! He learns from them and digs his heels in and works all the harder.
Add to this that Daniel, his brother...his younger brother and only remaining family seems to be finding himself in some hot water and while Angus wants to go to his rescue it's just not humanly possible and Angus's roommate, Jonas, seems to be having a life crisis (we're not calling it mid-life because really? Way too young), then there's Lester, the hot and sexy doorman that Angus meets while following up on a lead. They're not a couple yet, but Angus seems to spend a bit more time than necessary investigating Lester and I'm pretty sure it's not case related. Also be prepared for a lot of secondary characters in this story some of them do become more relevant than others but seriously folks we've got an FBI agent investigating a case and having him interact with a small number of people just wouldn't have seemed very realistic for me.
While I would have liked a little more story in the romance department I can be patient...after all this is only the first book and I'm good with a slow burn and given how busy Angus is at the moment it makes sense that anything in the relationship department is going to take a bit of time.
Following Angus as he worked his case and entertaining for me. The details were pretty much perfect enough to let me work the case with him but not so much that I became bored. Plus there were lovely moments of snark and banter between Angus and his colleagues that I thoroughly enjoyed...
I slumped back in my chair. “I thought I was getting fired.”
“Yeah, that was kind of fun to watch,” Vito said.
I glared at him. “You’re going to mentor me, you might try being nicer.”
“Niceness is not Vito’s specialty,” Roly said.
Also before I forget I just want to say that while I don't factor this in to my rating covers matter for me and I really liked this one...I mean it's good seriously good and if you like it before you read the book take another look after reading the book and it'll work even more for you.
'The Next One Will Kill You' was a well written and enjoyable start to a new series by a well known and established author and I look forward to following this series and maybe, I'll even get a chance to dig into his backlist and see what other treasures I've been missing.
********************
An ARC of "The Next One Will Kill You" was graciously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
A new series from an established author...
'The Next One Will Kill You' was my first time reading this author and while it wasn't quite what I was expecting I definitely enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more.
Angus Green is new to the FBI and so far he's spent most of his time behind a desk analyzing data. Things change rather quickly for him when a couple of fellow agents approach him at 'Lazy Dicks' the local gay bar where he's entered into a strip trivia contest in the hopes of winning money for his little brother's trip to Italy. Angus isn't sure if this is going to be the beginning or the end of his career as an FBI agent. He's always been out so being gay isn't a secret...nope his concern is that entering a strip trivia contest even though he won and got to keep some of his clothes on might not go over well with the powers that be at the FBI. Much to his relief it's being gay that has put him on the radar of his fellow agents who are in need of his assistance.
Angus suddenly goes from being a desk jockey to an active field agent in a matter of minutes, life is getting busy and while he does make mistakes...gasp! He learns from them and digs his heels in and works all the harder.
Add to this that Daniel, his brother...his younger brother and only remaining family seems to be finding himself in some hot water and while Angus wants to go to his rescue it's just not humanly possible and Angus's roommate, Jonas, seems to be having a life crisis (we're not calling it mid-life because really? Way too young), then there's Lester, the hot and sexy doorman that Angus meets while following up on a lead. They're not a couple yet, but Angus seems to spend a bit more time than necessary investigating Lester and I'm pretty sure it's not case related. Also be prepared for a lot of secondary characters in this story some of them do become more relevant than others but seriously folks we've got an FBI agent investigating a case and having him interact with a small number of people just wouldn't have seemed very realistic for me.
While I would have liked a little more story in the romance department I can be patient...after all this is only the first book and I'm good with a slow burn and given how busy Angus is at the moment it makes sense that anything in the relationship department is going to take a bit of time.
Following Angus as he worked his case and entertaining for me. The details were pretty much perfect enough to let me work the case with him but not so much that I became bored. Plus there were lovely moments of snark and banter between Angus and his colleagues that I thoroughly enjoyed...
I slumped back in my chair. “I thought I was getting fired.”
“Yeah, that was kind of fun to watch,” Vito said.
I glared at him. “You’re going to mentor me, you might try being nicer.”
“Niceness is not Vito’s specialty,” Roly said.
Also before I forget I just want to say that while I don't factor this in to my rating covers matter for me and I really liked this one...I mean it's good seriously good and if you like it before you read the book take another look after reading the book and it'll work even more for you.
'The Next One Will Kill You' was a well written and enjoyable start to a new series by a well known and established author and I look forward to following this series and maybe, I'll even get a chance to dig into his backlist and see what other treasures I've been missing.
********************
An ARC of "The Next One Will Kill You" was graciously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2016
3.75 stars rounded up
Neil Plakcy's Mahu is one of mystery series with gay detective that I follow religiously. When I found out that Plakcy wrote what looked like to be the first of another series, I immediately requested the ARC over at Netgalley.
Well, I really enjoyed this.
First of all, The Next One Will Kill You definitely falls into mystery/procedural book. It features Angus Green, a young gay (and out) FBI rookie. So, for those looking for Angus developing a romantic relationship will be disappointed. Yes, there is a potential love interest -- for once, he is NOT part of the investigation *laugh* -- but even the sexy times are written off pages.
Personally, I couldn't be happier with that fact. I always consider myself a mystery/procedural girl at heart, and it's refreshing for me to have a solid mystery book with gay character that is not boggled down with romantic entanglement. I love romance but hey, I grew up with Agatha Christie, and romance novels came to me when I was in my late teens. Mystery will always have a special place in my heart.
Throughout the book Angus is involved with the investigation -- it starts with an informant who tells an FBI about a possibility of jewelry robbery but then he turns up dead. The case expands a bit, involving drug smuggling in addition to the heist plan and the murder of the informant. At times, Angus also deals with his brother who seems to be involved with a crime. On this part, I thought it became a little convoluted. Too many things going on, you know? I wouldn't mind if the cases were more focused.
Having said that, I thought that Angus is quite competent despite juggling a couple of cases at once. This is Angus first field investigation -- he uses to work behind the best, starting his career as an accountant -- and Angus shows that he can gather information, does research, and stumbles into clues with both luck and his own charm.
Being gay helps Angus approaching potential people with information, even befriending them without seeming snobbish, manipulative or overbearing. This is an advantage that other agents don't have. Angus also comes up with some great thinking when needed and he seems respectful towards his seniors.
I definitely like Angus as a protagonist. Angus feels young, eager, fun, friendly, and determined. He is a character that I can root for. Considering that he is still a rookie, I can also imagine the potential of Angus flourishing at his job at the Bureau. I will look forward to future books on this series...
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Neil Plakcy's Mahu is one of mystery series with gay detective that I follow religiously. When I found out that Plakcy wrote what looked like to be the first of another series, I immediately requested the ARC over at Netgalley.
Well, I really enjoyed this.
First of all, The Next One Will Kill You definitely falls into mystery/procedural book. It features Angus Green, a young gay (and out) FBI rookie. So, for those looking for Angus developing a romantic relationship will be disappointed. Yes, there is a potential love interest -- for once, he is NOT part of the investigation *laugh* -- but even the sexy times are written off pages.
Personally, I couldn't be happier with that fact. I always consider myself a mystery/procedural girl at heart, and it's refreshing for me to have a solid mystery book with gay character that is not boggled down with romantic entanglement. I love romance but hey, I grew up with Agatha Christie, and romance novels came to me when I was in my late teens. Mystery will always have a special place in my heart.
Throughout the book Angus is involved with the investigation -- it starts with an informant who tells an FBI about a possibility of jewelry robbery but then he turns up dead. The case expands a bit, involving drug smuggling in addition to the heist plan and the murder of the informant. At times, Angus also deals with his brother who seems to be involved with a crime. On this part, I thought it became a little convoluted. Too many things going on, you know? I wouldn't mind if the cases were more focused.
Having said that, I thought that Angus is quite competent despite juggling a couple of cases at once. This is Angus first field investigation -- he uses to work behind the best, starting his career as an accountant -- and Angus shows that he can gather information, does research, and stumbles into clues with both luck and his own charm.
Being gay helps Angus approaching potential people with information, even befriending them without seeming snobbish, manipulative or overbearing. This is an advantage that other agents don't have. Angus also comes up with some great thinking when needed and he seems respectful towards his seniors.
I definitely like Angus as a protagonist. Angus feels young, eager, fun, friendly, and determined. He is a character that I can root for. Considering that he is still a rookie, I can also imagine the potential of Angus flourishing at his job at the Bureau. I will look forward to future books on this series...
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I liked this first installment of a new mystery series by Plakcy. I got burned out on the Mahu series, so I figured it was time to check this one out. It's got a bit of a different flavor to it. Angus is in Florida, for starers, and he's a rookie FBI agent. He doesn't have a huge family, unlike Kimo, and he didn't get convenient tips from his strategically placed friends and family. He's brought into an investigation because he's gay and the missing informant is also gay. Since he's already part of the gay community and known in the clubs, the lead investigators figured he'd be able to get info where they couldn't.
This is less a mystery - since we learn pretty quickly who is involved, if not how or why - but Green still has to run down information, connections, and figure out motives. I'm not quite sure that sending him off to investigate the convention angle on his own - he is a rookie and hasn't run an investigation before - makes much sense. But he does constantly check in with the leads and gets advice from them and usually listens to it. He does take risks here and there, but they're calculated risks and he knows when to back off and get advice or backup.
As per usual, this is not a romance, at all. Angus does hook up with one guy, but whether this will end up being a long-term relationship or not is unknown. Also, Plakcy doesn't write fade to black - because there's nothing to fade from. So don't come to these hoping for steam, unless it's the swampy, clingy Florida humidity. Just FYI.
Now my issues:
Angus gets sidetracked for a very significant part of the story in a side quest that is somewhat linked to his actual assignment. It's "resolved" in a way I don't entirely buy. There's no real follow up to the original informant that started all this. Yes, we learn
At some point, Angus is talking to this guy named Usnavy, and notes this is a popular name in Puerto Rico where there's a large US Navy presence. Now granted, they're not the only ones to name their sons Usnavy by a long shot. But it was strange to go from "it's popular in Puerto Rico" to Angus assuring the guy he wasn't there to get him deported. ... Um, Puerto Ricans have dual citizenship. I also started to get really annoyed as the book progressed that every single Hispanic character spoke with broken English. Every. Single. One. Really, bro? 😒
Angus does have a brother in Philly who is in college. I didn't really care for how he was introduced here. His legal woe drama seemed to be thrown in just to have an excuse for them to talk to each other. Like, couldn't they just talk about regular stuff? By the end of the book, we know nothing about him other than he's in college and he's a waiter - the exact same things we knew about him at the beginning.
Still, there's enough potential here that I'll check out the next one and see how that goes.
I liked this first installment of a new mystery series by Plakcy. I got burned out on the Mahu series, so I figured it was time to check this one out. It's got a bit of a different flavor to it. Angus is in Florida, for starers, and he's a rookie FBI agent. He doesn't have a huge family, unlike Kimo, and he didn't get convenient tips from his strategically placed friends and family. He's brought into an investigation because he's gay and the missing informant is also gay. Since he's already part of the gay community and known in the clubs, the lead investigators figured he'd be able to get info where they couldn't.
This is less a mystery - since we learn pretty quickly who is involved, if not how or why - but Green still has to run down information, connections, and figure out motives. I'm not quite sure that sending him off to investigate the convention angle on his own - he is a rookie and hasn't run an investigation before - makes much sense. But he does constantly check in with the leads and gets advice from them and usually listens to it. He does take risks here and there, but they're calculated risks and he knows when to back off and get advice or backup.
As per usual, this is not a romance, at all. Angus does hook up with one guy, but whether this will end up being a long-term relationship or not is unknown. Also, Plakcy doesn't write fade to black - because there's nothing to fade from. So don't come to these hoping for steam, unless it's the swampy, clingy Florida humidity. Just FYI.
Now my issues:
Angus gets sidetracked for a very significant part of the story in a side quest that is somewhat linked to his actual assignment. It's "resolved" in a way I don't entirely buy. There's no real follow up to the original informant that started all this. Yes, we learn
At some point, Angus is talking to this guy named Usnavy, and notes this is a popular name in Puerto Rico where there's a large US Navy presence. Now granted, they're not the only ones to name their sons Usnavy by a long shot. But it was strange to go from "it's popular in Puerto Rico" to Angus assuring the guy he wasn't there to get him deported. ... Um, Puerto Ricans have dual citizenship. I also started to get really annoyed as the book progressed that every single Hispanic character spoke with broken English. Every. Single. One. Really, bro? 😒
Angus does have a brother in Philly who is in college. I didn't really care for how he was introduced here. His legal woe drama seemed to be thrown in just to have an excuse for them to talk to each other. Like, couldn't they just talk about regular stuff? By the end of the book, we know nothing about him other than he's in college and he's a waiter - the exact same things we knew about him at the beginning.
Still, there's enough potential here that I'll check out the next one and see how that goes.
October 21, 2016
3,3 stars
It was my first Neil S.Plakcy, so I have nothing to compare with/to be able to claim that this novel has been written in a typical Neil Plakcy’s style. I assume though that in Neil S. Plakcy’s books the mystery plays a key role, while a love story settled for a second role.
The plot:
Angus Green, twenty-six year old, gay, knew his way around numbers, but always dreamed of doing something more exciting than a boring accountant job. It was the reason, why he joined FBI. Only now, instead of hunting down criminals, he prepares tax returns and continues to dream to become a field agent.
His patience will be rewarded.
A waiter from a gay bar, where Angus is a regular, contacts FBI to share important information on a possible breach of homeland security. When the informant doesn't come neither to the arranged appointment nor to work and simply disappears without any trace, the suspicious grow stronger that the threat should be taken very seriously. It is when Angus gets his chance: he'll be transferred to the case that is working by two experienced FBI agents.
Thanks to his connections and confidence he, as a gay agent, has in a gay scene, his high ambitions, an indefatigable will to solve the case, his exceptional investigating skills and...a lot of luck, he turns out to be the best possible partner for two FBI veterans they can only dream of.
A summery:
The first part in the book was really good. If the second part had had the same dynamic and the same mixture of spirit of adventure, suspense and insights into a private life of the rookie agent Angus Green, it would have been a solid 4+ read for me. Unfortunately, in the course of the story, the case became more and more complicated and the plot began to concentrate mostly on the investigation, it made the story a bit too overloaded with the case's details. The little of Angus's love life was gently put aside and the healthy balance of the first part started to suffer.
I can understand that the author wanted to show how good Angus did his job, but I couldn't also ignore the fact, that the FBI-“oldies” were simply not good enough.
All in all, it was an interesting mystery, that has a lot of potential if it will become a series.
My first Neil S.Plakcy, but for sure not the last one.
**Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 26, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Author Neil S. Plakcy offers up a classic whodunit mystery in his latest release, The Next One Will Kill You. The action is swift, Angus is both determined and laser focused, and this novel goes a long way in establishing what I hope will be an ongoing series of gumshoe novels featuring this extremely likeable and down to earth FBI agent.
While the story was not terribly long on character development, what it did do (and very well) was set up the key players that will be the focus of this new series. We are introduced to several team members on the FBI; Angus’s brother Danny; Lester, potential boyfriend to Angus; and Jonas, his roommate. Interweaving these intros with a multi-layered jewel heist/murder/street drug cartel, and suddenly we had a great deal of action that kept me interested and the story moving along. Unfortunately, with so many balls in the air, there was not a lot of time to get to know Angus well—but he was compelling enough to make me want to learn more about him and that is exactly what you want in a first installment.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Author Neil S. Plakcy offers up a classic whodunit mystery in his latest release, The Next One Will Kill You. The action is swift, Angus is both determined and laser focused, and this novel goes a long way in establishing what I hope will be an ongoing series of gumshoe novels featuring this extremely likeable and down to earth FBI agent.
While the story was not terribly long on character development, what it did do (and very well) was set up the key players that will be the focus of this new series. We are introduced to several team members on the FBI; Angus’s brother Danny; Lester, potential boyfriend to Angus; and Jonas, his roommate. Interweaving these intros with a multi-layered jewel heist/murder/street drug cartel, and suddenly we had a great deal of action that kept me interested and the story moving along. Unfortunately, with so many balls in the air, there was not a lot of time to get to know Angus well—but he was compelling enough to make me want to learn more about him and that is exactly what you want in a first installment.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
September 3, 2016
Angus Green is a brand new rookie FBI agent and he's just itching to get his first field assignment.
A waiter from a gay bar that Angus frequents contacts the FBI to share the information he has about a possible homeland security threat. When the waiter disappears, the FBI believes this threat to be very credible. The powers that be turn to Angus and add him to the task force under supervision by two of FBI's finest.
At last he has his chance! Being gay, his FBI mentors feel that he would be more apt to blend in in order to investigate the waiter and any of his friends.
From a possible threat, to murder, to a jewelry heist, he's determined he will at least be the best FBI Agent he can. He surprises himself ..and his mentors... with his superb investigating skills.
Angus is a different kind of hero. He's young, only 26, he's a redhead and blushes oh so easily, but he is so willing to jump in the trenches. He has a brother who may or may not be in legal trouble and a roommate that knows a few bad guys.
I think the author tried to add some humor along the way ... some of it worked...some of it didn't. This is certainly not a hard boiled mystery. Supposedly this is first in a series yet to come. I'm not sure Angus can stand up as an interesting enough series character.
Many thanks to the author / Diversion Publishing / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
A waiter from a gay bar that Angus frequents contacts the FBI to share the information he has about a possible homeland security threat. When the waiter disappears, the FBI believes this threat to be very credible. The powers that be turn to Angus and add him to the task force under supervision by two of FBI's finest.
At last he has his chance! Being gay, his FBI mentors feel that he would be more apt to blend in in order to investigate the waiter and any of his friends.
From a possible threat, to murder, to a jewelry heist, he's determined he will at least be the best FBI Agent he can. He surprises himself ..and his mentors... with his superb investigating skills.
Angus is a different kind of hero. He's young, only 26, he's a redhead and blushes oh so easily, but he is so willing to jump in the trenches. He has a brother who may or may not be in legal trouble and a roommate that knows a few bad guys.
I think the author tried to add some humor along the way ... some of it worked...some of it didn't. This is certainly not a hard boiled mystery. Supposedly this is first in a series yet to come. I'm not sure Angus can stand up as an interesting enough series character.
Many thanks to the author / Diversion Publishing / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
August 6, 2017
An enjoyable mystery story.
As I wanted to read from this “new author to me", I realized it was part of a series and I decided to read the books in order.
This is the story of Angus Green, a young gay guy with a very pretty face, a supportive brother, trying to be a good guy. After graduating and getting bored in an accounting job, he landed at the FBI in Florida as an analyst. He’s a rookie, but he’s smart, dedicated to his job, tenacious and gets people to talk to him. So much that he finally gets his first case in the field, trying to locate a guy who could have information on a plan for a jewels robbery.
I really liked the plot, the details at depicting Florida and the FBI work, the different characters and Angus's view of life. It was really entertaining. A solid mystery novel. But if you’re looking for any steam, there is none.
Going to book 2 now : Nobody Rides for Free as I’m eager to follow up on Angus, how he’s going to handle his career’s growth and hopefully his love life.
As I wanted to read from this “new author to me", I realized it was part of a series and I decided to read the books in order.
This is the story of Angus Green, a young gay guy with a very pretty face, a supportive brother, trying to be a good guy. After graduating and getting bored in an accounting job, he landed at the FBI in Florida as an analyst. He’s a rookie, but he’s smart, dedicated to his job, tenacious and gets people to talk to him. So much that he finally gets his first case in the field, trying to locate a guy who could have information on a plan for a jewels robbery.
I really liked the plot, the details at depicting Florida and the FBI work, the different characters and Angus's view of life. It was really entertaining. A solid mystery novel. But if you’re looking for any steam, there is none.
Going to book 2 now : Nobody Rides for Free as I’m eager to follow up on Angus, how he’s going to handle his career’s growth and hopefully his love life.
September 1, 2016
I really enjoy this author's Mahu series and so I was quite excited to receive this new book from NetGalley.
Angus Green is a rookie FBI agent and gay. He is also a qualified accountant but has hopes that this new career in the FBI will provide the edgy career that accountancy just cant match.
Angus has a younger brother who he is close to and it is a closeness that makes Angus look out for his brother especially since their father died. The story starts with Angus entering a strip quiz at the local gay bar so that he can win the prize money and use it to send his brother to Italy and this is where his career begins to take off.
Unbeknown to Angus there are two FBI agents at the strip quiz. They are there to meet someone who has given them a tip about a robbery due to take place. When the witness doesn't turn up the agents turn to rookie agent Angus and get him to investigate what has happened to the missing witness. They feel that Angus can help the investigation because he is gay and will have an 'in' with the gay community.
Angus is delighted to be given this responsibility and pursues the case with vigour, following twists and turns to the very end.
It is a good story and I would like to read other stories about Angus, but it is very heavy on the procedure and investigation. Of course there are other characters along the way and a kind of side aspect on the relationship between Angus and his brother. I did enjoy this because it shows us the family side of Angus.
There are also romantic aspects that I hope will be developed in future stories. I did think that the story is rather heavy on the investigation, although I did enjoy reading it. I don't really see why that should change because that is the kind of story it is and it does this well.
I loved the way we get to see inside Angus's mind and the way he reflects on his brother, friends and other aspects of life as the investigation processes. He learns about himself, other cultures and also comes to realise something of the history of living as a gay man, and how his life is so very different to the generation of gay men before him.
I enjoyed this because if this turns out to be a series like Mahu then it means we will hopefully get to see Angus evolve as a character.
Definitely a good story to read if you enjoy mysteries that are very focused on investigative procedure.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing this copy via Netgalley in exchange for unbiased review.
Angus Green is a rookie FBI agent and gay. He is also a qualified accountant but has hopes that this new career in the FBI will provide the edgy career that accountancy just cant match.
Angus has a younger brother who he is close to and it is a closeness that makes Angus look out for his brother especially since their father died. The story starts with Angus entering a strip quiz at the local gay bar so that he can win the prize money and use it to send his brother to Italy and this is where his career begins to take off.
Unbeknown to Angus there are two FBI agents at the strip quiz. They are there to meet someone who has given them a tip about a robbery due to take place. When the witness doesn't turn up the agents turn to rookie agent Angus and get him to investigate what has happened to the missing witness. They feel that Angus can help the investigation because he is gay and will have an 'in' with the gay community.
Angus is delighted to be given this responsibility and pursues the case with vigour, following twists and turns to the very end.
It is a good story and I would like to read other stories about Angus, but it is very heavy on the procedure and investigation. Of course there are other characters along the way and a kind of side aspect on the relationship between Angus and his brother. I did enjoy this because it shows us the family side of Angus.
There are also romantic aspects that I hope will be developed in future stories. I did think that the story is rather heavy on the investigation, although I did enjoy reading it. I don't really see why that should change because that is the kind of story it is and it does this well.
I loved the way we get to see inside Angus's mind and the way he reflects on his brother, friends and other aspects of life as the investigation processes. He learns about himself, other cultures and also comes to realise something of the history of living as a gay man, and how his life is so very different to the generation of gay men before him.
I enjoyed this because if this turns out to be a series like Mahu then it means we will hopefully get to see Angus evolve as a character.
Definitely a good story to read if you enjoy mysteries that are very focused on investigative procedure.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing this copy via Netgalley in exchange for unbiased review.
July 18, 2020
DNF @ 40%.
I almost feel bad about the fact that I didn't stick this one through. Neil S. Plakcy is one of those authors always popping up on my recommended reading lists. This being my first time reading anything by him, I am a little stumped as to why this book rates so highly.
Angus, the newly minted FBI agent, who needs to try to recall how to interrogate someone so he can get info from his roommate, who he early admitted would spill everything after a few drinks. Apparently that is the only thing he can't recall from his time in training, as we are constantly given info on how FBI agents operate. As for his character, I don't think much of it comes through and nearing the halfway mark of this book, I can't even decide if I like him or not, because he is just so bland.
We are given all this details about all these characters, sometimes their appearance, sometimes their clothing, sometimes a little background info, only for them never to pop up again. Why do I need to know what the scruffy bartender looks like, or what the delivery guy was wearing?
I was confused when Green talks about a beater cell, and describes that this is a disposable, untraceable phone... that's a burner cell, is it not? Maybe the author got that mixed up with a beater car.
We meet the blonde female, Christine. And later, there is another blonde woman agent. It seems a little redundant to me to indicate that they are female/woman. Blonde, in it's feminine form, is a noun indicating a fair-haired female. Just say the blonde, Christine, or a blonde agent. Done.
Then we have our villain, Nilady... with her coffee-colored skin. I get that this was published a whole 4 years ago, but hasn't it been widely considered a big faux pas to describe POC skin tones in direct comparison to food? Nilady, who we are told about her time as a doctor until 2002, and then told in the next line that there was no record of her until 2005. You mean no record of her AGAIN, since we were just told of her time as a doctor.
Another issue I have is just with the investigation in general. Chris Potts has been after Nilady for a while now, but can't get the jump on the pill mills, which have always moved on by the time the FBI get there. Then you have Angus Green, rookie agent, who decides to tail a suspect (alone, after being told not to act alone), and then spends a few hours staking out the place and ends up making a huge break though in the case. I guess Roly and Vito never considered tailing a suspect, or Potts (or any other agent working on the operation). Thanks goodness Angus Green was around, or the FBI would be 100% hopeless. They are like, "Great, diligent work, Green."... when I think the issue is that he is the only one actually even doing anything at all.
Those issues aside, I just find that there isn't really anything interesting about this book. Angus isn't interesting, the case isn't interesting, the writing isn't interesting.
I almost feel bad about the fact that I didn't stick this one through. Neil S. Plakcy is one of those authors always popping up on my recommended reading lists. This being my first time reading anything by him, I am a little stumped as to why this book rates so highly.
Angus, the newly minted FBI agent, who needs to try to recall how to interrogate someone so he can get info from his roommate, who he early admitted would spill everything after a few drinks. Apparently that is the only thing he can't recall from his time in training, as we are constantly given info on how FBI agents operate. As for his character, I don't think much of it comes through and nearing the halfway mark of this book, I can't even decide if I like him or not, because he is just so bland.
We are given all this details about all these characters, sometimes their appearance, sometimes their clothing, sometimes a little background info, only for them never to pop up again. Why do I need to know what the scruffy bartender looks like, or what the delivery guy was wearing?
I was confused when Green talks about a beater cell, and describes that this is a disposable, untraceable phone... that's a burner cell, is it not? Maybe the author got that mixed up with a beater car.
We meet the blonde female, Christine. And later, there is another blonde woman agent. It seems a little redundant to me to indicate that they are female/woman. Blonde, in it's feminine form, is a noun indicating a fair-haired female. Just say the blonde, Christine, or a blonde agent. Done.
Then we have our villain, Nilady... with her coffee-colored skin. I get that this was published a whole 4 years ago, but hasn't it been widely considered a big faux pas to describe POC skin tones in direct comparison to food? Nilady, who we are told about her time as a doctor until 2002, and then told in the next line that there was no record of her until 2005. You mean no record of her AGAIN, since we were just told of her time as a doctor.
Another issue I have is just with the investigation in general. Chris Potts has been after Nilady for a while now, but can't get the jump on the pill mills, which have always moved on by the time the FBI get there. Then you have Angus Green, rookie agent, who decides to tail a suspect (alone, after being told not to act alone), and then spends a few hours staking out the place and ends up making a huge break though in the case. I guess Roly and Vito never considered tailing a suspect, or Potts (or any other agent working on the operation). Thanks goodness Angus Green was around, or the FBI would be 100% hopeless. They are like, "Great, diligent work, Green."... when I think the issue is that he is the only one actually even doing anything at all.
Those issues aside, I just find that there isn't really anything interesting about this book. Angus isn't interesting, the case isn't interesting, the writing isn't interesting.
June 20, 2025
A-Z Challenge Book N
I grabbed this book for 99¢ way back in July 2019 and it’s been sitting unread since then. Now that I have Kobo+ and the rest of the series is available there, I decided I’d give this a try. A few things I wish I’d known before going into this:
▪️You can’t take this too seriously. The FBI procedures are abhorrent. (One example: No agent would leave their weapon unattended in a public place and strip down to their skivvies to negotiate with suspects. 🙄)
▪️This is not a romance. I’m sure there are reviews that state this, but it’s been tagged on goodreads as romantic suspense. Any reviews I have read, it was a long time ago and didn’t remember.
▪️There are times when the author thinks the reader should just know things and doesn’t explain but other times that we get details that don’t stay consistent.
For a young, rookie agent, he sure blabs his case to a lot of people. He doesn’t really have a rhyme or reason for who he tells and who he doesn’t. His roommate who knows one of the suspects? Angus tells him everything. That should be an automatic NO! Who knows what his roommate is going to report back to the suspect?!? The guy Angus is sleeping with and kinda of dating? Nope. He won’t tell that guy anything even though it would clear up a misunderstanding.
Sometimes I felt like I was in an episode of Dragnet or on set of The Naked Gun. It was fun and Angus was smart, but it was weird how he figured things out. I made some highlights with notes that I will post.
There are three more books to this series and I’m interested enough to see how Angus matures in his job as a federal agent. I’m also hoping there will be more relationship development between Angus and Lester. My advice for anyone thinking of picking up these books is not to take things too seriously about FBI procedures or protocols. Read it because it’s an entertaining story.
**The formatting is horrible. It needs a better layout.
**I tried the audio. It stated it was narrated by the author, but it sounded like it was AI generated – talk to text – flat with no inflection. I gave up on it before I even got through the first chapter.
I grabbed this book for 99¢ way back in July 2019 and it’s been sitting unread since then. Now that I have Kobo+ and the rest of the series is available there, I decided I’d give this a try. A few things I wish I’d known before going into this:
▪️You can’t take this too seriously. The FBI procedures are abhorrent. (One example: No agent would leave their weapon unattended in a public place and strip down to their skivvies to negotiate with suspects. 🙄)
▪️This is not a romance. I’m sure there are reviews that state this, but it’s been tagged on goodreads as romantic suspense. Any reviews I have read, it was a long time ago and didn’t remember.
▪️There are times when the author thinks the reader should just know things and doesn’t explain but other times that we get details that don’t stay consistent.
For a young, rookie agent, he sure blabs his case to a lot of people. He doesn’t really have a rhyme or reason for who he tells and who he doesn’t. His roommate who knows one of the suspects? Angus tells him everything. That should be an automatic NO! Who knows what his roommate is going to report back to the suspect?!? The guy Angus is sleeping with and kinda of dating? Nope. He won’t tell that guy anything even though it would clear up a misunderstanding.
Sometimes I felt like I was in an episode of Dragnet or on set of The Naked Gun. It was fun and Angus was smart, but it was weird how he figured things out. I made some highlights with notes that I will post.
There are three more books to this series and I’m interested enough to see how Angus matures in his job as a federal agent. I’m also hoping there will be more relationship development between Angus and Lester. My advice for anyone thinking of picking up these books is not to take things too seriously about FBI procedures or protocols. Read it because it’s an entertaining story.
**The formatting is horrible. It needs a better layout.
**I tried the audio. It stated it was narrated by the author, but it sounded like it was AI generated – talk to text – flat with no inflection. I gave up on it before I even got through the first chapter.
dnf
May 21, 2018I'm the wrong reader for this book. dnf @56%
It's a crime mystery involving the FBI. While I normally like police procedurals, it's only because they have high-octane action to keep my attention. This one is about the mystery and solving/preventing an upcoming crime. It's well written and there are some off page hookups up to the point I read. It just wasn't for me because the focus is on finding clues and solving the puzzle.
I'm not rating it because I don't think there's anything wrong with the book and I liked the MC.
It's just a matter of taste here.
It's a crime mystery involving the FBI. While I normally like police procedurals, it's only because they have high-octane action to keep my attention. This one is about the mystery and solving/preventing an upcoming crime. It's well written and there are some off page hookups up to the point I read. It just wasn't for me because the focus is on finding clues and solving the puzzle.
I'm not rating it because I don't think there's anything wrong with the book and I liked the MC.
It's just a matter of taste here.
February 20, 2019
I'm a big fan of Mr. Plakcy's Mahu series. This well put together story did not disappoint. Angus is like a dog with a bone once he gets involved. I enjoyed his budding relationship with Lester and hope that it continues. Both Vito and Roly played out great parts as Angus's mentors. A very enjoyable traipse through the Miami area.
February 17, 2017
This mystery was fun and light on the thrills but still serious enough to entertain someone like me, a lover of noir and other hardboiled detective series. Our protagonist, Angus Green, is a plucky accountant for the FBI who gets his first real case offered to him after a gay bar trivia contest—where he ends up in his skivvies, puking drunk. Maybe he wasn’t exactly interview material, but he certainly left an impression. There’s something to be said about being in the right place at the right time.
Agent Green understands he’s being used for his insider knowledge and connections—an informant has gone missing from the local gay community, and fellow agents can’t get a word out of anyone. His job is to ingratiate himself with those suspected of involvement, and lead the more experienced agents to the trail. However, this is his first case, and Green isn’t about to do anything half-assed. With his strong work ethic and a certain flair for the dramatic, he cracks the case wide open. What started out as a simple missing person case quickly finds him in over his head.
Despite his naivety, Green was a fairly stable protagonist. He has a steady job, a good relationship with his brother (who I’m guessing we’ll see more of in the later books), and though he has a wild side, his ethics are sound. It’s the people around Green who create most of his drama. His brother is in the middle of being investigated for theft, the gay club he’s frequented for years is teaming with people of dubious morals, and his bright red hair and good looks make him a magnet for love trouble. He meets an alluring man during his investigation, but we don’t get to spend much time with him—right when things warm up in bed, Green’s case gets hot.
Not only is he green in his work, but despite his endearing qualities, Agent Green clearly has a bit of growing up to do. Plakcy exposes us to the very real ageism in gay culture. In the beginning, Green’s attitudes concerning older gay men seem to be those of his peers—in that most of them believe older gay men are to be tolerated at best, but his views shift. During his investigation he befriends an older gay man and the two form a unique partnership. I respected how, in the short span of a novel, Green experiences a subtle but significant change in his outlook, and that leads him to ultimately getting what he wants out of life, which is the sensation of competence in his craft. He has potential.
This series also has potential. The first novel admittedly felt as if it were introducing the major players while providing us with an entertaining plot, but it sort of neglected a more in depth feel of any of the characters. I’m looking forward to digging into them in the future works.
Reviewed by Ben for The Novel Approach Reviews
Agent Green understands he’s being used for his insider knowledge and connections—an informant has gone missing from the local gay community, and fellow agents can’t get a word out of anyone. His job is to ingratiate himself with those suspected of involvement, and lead the more experienced agents to the trail. However, this is his first case, and Green isn’t about to do anything half-assed. With his strong work ethic and a certain flair for the dramatic, he cracks the case wide open. What started out as a simple missing person case quickly finds him in over his head.
Despite his naivety, Green was a fairly stable protagonist. He has a steady job, a good relationship with his brother (who I’m guessing we’ll see more of in the later books), and though he has a wild side, his ethics are sound. It’s the people around Green who create most of his drama. His brother is in the middle of being investigated for theft, the gay club he’s frequented for years is teaming with people of dubious morals, and his bright red hair and good looks make him a magnet for love trouble. He meets an alluring man during his investigation, but we don’t get to spend much time with him—right when things warm up in bed, Green’s case gets hot.
Not only is he green in his work, but despite his endearing qualities, Agent Green clearly has a bit of growing up to do. Plakcy exposes us to the very real ageism in gay culture. In the beginning, Green’s attitudes concerning older gay men seem to be those of his peers—in that most of them believe older gay men are to be tolerated at best, but his views shift. During his investigation he befriends an older gay man and the two form a unique partnership. I respected how, in the short span of a novel, Green experiences a subtle but significant change in his outlook, and that leads him to ultimately getting what he wants out of life, which is the sensation of competence in his craft. He has potential.
This series also has potential. The first novel admittedly felt as if it were introducing the major players while providing us with an entertaining plot, but it sort of neglected a more in depth feel of any of the characters. I’m looking forward to digging into them in the future works.
Reviewed by Ben for The Novel Approach Reviews
Read
September 27, 2025Interesting, but audiobook narration is so bad that I cannot continue. No inflection, same voice for everyone. May try again when I’m back in my reading era.
July 18, 2019
Clever and fun procedural style mystery
Nice coincidence; Neil Plakcy got married today! I had a pretty good time reading this since I enjoy mysteries and police procedurals, in this case FBI. Angus was a likable character, a newly minted FBI agent, determined and earnest in his desire to be a good agent. He’s pulled into a case when he runs into other agents at a gay club. Not having homophobic behavior to portrayals of his co-workers was refreshing. It would have detracted from the plot. I do think the detail occasionally read like a FBI primer but at least it did make it clear why certain things happened. Not a thrill ride of suspense but good reading. It was also nice being familiar with most areas of South Florida mentioned in the narrative.
Nice coincidence; Neil Plakcy got married today! I had a pretty good time reading this since I enjoy mysteries and police procedurals, in this case FBI. Angus was a likable character, a newly minted FBI agent, determined and earnest in his desire to be a good agent. He’s pulled into a case when he runs into other agents at a gay club. Not having homophobic behavior to portrayals of his co-workers was refreshing. It would have detracted from the plot. I do think the detail occasionally read like a FBI primer but at least it did make it clear why certain things happened. Not a thrill ride of suspense but good reading. It was also nice being familiar with most areas of South Florida mentioned in the narrative.
February 27, 2018
Very good start to a new series. Angus is a former accountant now a rookie with the FBI, when he is pulled unexpectedly into an ongoing investigation it becomes his first case where he isn't desk bound. The investigation covers illegal pharmaceutical production, murder, immigration issues and Jewish gem dealers. Throw into the mix a rather shady house mate, and a troubled younger brother at the other side of the country and Angus has his work cut out. His work appears to be 50% skill and 50% luck... but it does work out as the story has a nice cast of side characters.
Angus, unlike Kimo from the Mahu series, is a young man who is out at work and in his private life - it's a different setting, but I thought it kind of showed how things have moved on - given that Mahu was first published over 12 years ago.
Like the Mahu series, the focus is on the mystery rather than any relationship - though there is a potential for Angus who appears in the story. Don't go into this thinking it's a romance, it isn't, what it is is a good solid mystery/police procedural with a gay protagonist.
Angus, unlike Kimo from the Mahu series, is a young man who is out at work and in his private life - it's a different setting, but I thought it kind of showed how things have moved on - given that Mahu was first published over 12 years ago.
Like the Mahu series, the focus is on the mystery rather than any relationship - though there is a potential for Angus who appears in the story. Don't go into this thinking it's a romance, it isn't, what it is is a good solid mystery/police procedural with a gay protagonist.
February 24, 2018
Good start
This book was fast paced but a bit unbelievable. I love Angus which made up for anything the book lacked. I wish there was more romance and a tighter mystery. I love this author so I know I will continue with the next book.
This book was fast paced but a bit unbelievable. I love Angus which made up for anything the book lacked. I wish there was more romance and a tighter mystery. I love this author so I know I will continue with the next book.
September 1, 2018
Great beginning to a new series. Angus is very likely, quirky, simplistic, but eager in his new job as a gay FBI agent—his “gayness” is the uniqueness that qualified him for his first big case. I found the prose simple and clean, avoiding the police-procedural cliches that can swamp a good novel, advancing the story in a slow burn of investigative, often frustrating (and wasteful) footwork to uncover leads to the case of the disappearance of a gay informant for the Bureau.
Well-paced and plotted, the character development of Angus seamlessly revealed throughout the chapters, and yet slowly and convincingly. You find yourself wanting to learn even more about the fresh, wide-eyed roomie FBI agent along the way do that by the end of this first novel, you feel like you’ve gotten to know a good-hearted friend.
Well-paced and plotted, the character development of Angus seamlessly revealed throughout the chapters, and yet slowly and convincingly. You find yourself wanting to learn even more about the fresh, wide-eyed roomie FBI agent along the way do that by the end of this first novel, you feel like you’ve gotten to know a good-hearted friend.
August 8, 2020
2.5 Stars
I’m disappointingly underwhelmed by this book. I liked Angus well enough and the writing, story, characters were okay, but nothing really grabbed me. The premise and blurbs for each book in the series, as well as reviews from readers I tend to agree with, had me requesting the entire 3-book series from my library. I was so excited when they were all purchased together and available to me that I hurried to borrow the entire series. I returned books 2 and 3 before I’d even finished book 1; I’m simply not interested enough. I’ll reconsider the series if I think of it again in the future; sadly I imagine it will be rather forgettable for me.
I’m disappointingly underwhelmed by this book. I liked Angus well enough and the writing, story, characters were okay, but nothing really grabbed me. The premise and blurbs for each book in the series, as well as reviews from readers I tend to agree with, had me requesting the entire 3-book series from my library. I was so excited when they were all purchased together and available to me that I hurried to borrow the entire series. I returned books 2 and 3 before I’d even finished book 1; I’m simply not interested enough. I’ll reconsider the series if I think of it again in the future; sadly I imagine it will be rather forgettable for me.
May 21, 2023
This is my first book by this author and I'll try another but it's hard to get excited about it. This a middle of the road FBI procedural. The twist, of course, is that the agent is gay and while his knowledge of the gay world helps a bit, it often just means that gay guys hit on him when he questions them. This is not the hedonistic gritty romp of Marshall Thornton's Three Nick Nowak Mysteries or even a romance. While there is a romantic subplot, it is tepid and anything steamy happens off-screen. Indeed, more time is given to a go nowhere subplot about the MC's brother, most of which is the two of them not answering each other's calls. I thought about reading the next book in this series but as it is not also on Kindle Unlimited, I will pass.
September 29, 2023
A great start to a new series by a an old favorite of mine. I don’t know why I wait so long before starting new books by him. Nevertheless, this is a solid 4 stars for me. Loved the intrepid Angus and his drive to do well in the FBI. Loved the mystery and the little bit of romance we got in the story. Looking forward to reading the next one.
November 26, 2016
This is a review of an ARC provided by the publisher.
3.5 Stars
Hang on a sec. Gotta carefully set aside my Romance Reader/Reviewer hat — don’t wanna put it somewhere my dog’ll eat it. Bastard eats everything.
Now I gotta dig around the top of the closet for my Mystery Reader/Review hat. Stick with me, it’s cute!
Where the hell did I put that thing?
Therrrre it is.
Sorted.
So! I haven’t had the pleasure to read Neil S. Plakcy before receiving this book, the first in a new series. And, gotta say, that for the most part, I really liked it.
I um…was hoping there’d be romance. But, alas, there wasn’t. Not really. Maybe, possibly (I hope) the next book in the series will skirt closer to some romantical plot lines. The foundation is there with a viable (scorching hot) love interest. I’ll keep hoping.
This book falls firmly into the Mystery camp. And, that’s cool too! Totally. I like a juicy mystery from time to time. It doesn’t aaaalll have to be sexy times.
From the starring character, Angus Green (COOL name) who’s’ a newbie FBI agent, we dive into a few mysteries centering on one primary suspect and a handful of other potential baddies. Murder, theft, drugs, jewelry heists — and I may be forgetting one or two things but they all add plenty of intrigue. Angus signed on to the Bureau to be more of an accountant/desk jockey type Fed but winds up running all over South Florida in his first field assignment — because he’s got an inside track to the gay scene his uber-hetero contemporaries can’t seem to crack.
I was WILDLY interested in all the FBI business because it fascinates me endlessly. And, I can tell Neil S. Plakcy did some serious research, at least as far as I toss out my own meager knowledge.
As far as the mystery aspects, gotta say I’m not sure it was super mysterious. I feel like an abundance of details diluted the whodunit factor. We get an early inkling that’s cemented rather quickly as to who the bad guy is, but we don’t exactly know all his motivations or all of his dastardly deeds until they’re uncovered piece by piece. But it sure was fun to witness Angus figuring it all out using some unconventional methods that might not’ve been exactly by the book.
Angus, as the main dude, was spectacular and super entertaining. He’s a little geeky because he’s an accountancy-type data guy, but give the guy a Case File and Glock and release him into the wilds of Gay Miami and he proved himself to be a worthy field agent. Amusing, thoughtful, intuitive, and engaging.
There are a host of side characters, and the ones I really wanted to know we only get snippets of and aren’t so fully fleshed out in my mind. Being that Angus was so consumed with this case, maybe we’re not ready yet for more dirt on his long-suffering roommate or the hunky bouncer, Lester. I wanted more interaction and depth with them. I’m greedy like that.
Listen, that Romance hat of mine is never far from my reach *caresses reverently*. Angus and Lester get it on at least three times. YES, I COUNTED. But it’s all…not even fade to black…it’s basically lights out. Fade to black is fine. I get some authors just don’t want to go there with some characters or story arcs. I get it, and I don’t always have to have full-on hyped-up sex-scenes. (HUSH, I don’t!) But gosh, I wanted to feel more of an emotional connection to make me relate a smidge more to Angus as a person, not just the Fed.
BUT! This is definitely a solid and entertaining read with several laugh-out-loud moments and gripping action scenes. And I’m definitely interested in seeing where book two leads.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
3.5 Stars
Hang on a sec. Gotta carefully set aside my Romance Reader/Reviewer hat — don’t wanna put it somewhere my dog’ll eat it. Bastard eats everything.
Now I gotta dig around the top of the closet for my Mystery Reader/Review hat. Stick with me, it’s cute!
Where the hell did I put that thing?
Therrrre it is.
Sorted.
So! I haven’t had the pleasure to read Neil S. Plakcy before receiving this book, the first in a new series. And, gotta say, that for the most part, I really liked it.
I um…was hoping there’d be romance. But, alas, there wasn’t. Not really. Maybe, possibly (I hope) the next book in the series will skirt closer to some romantical plot lines. The foundation is there with a viable (scorching hot) love interest. I’ll keep hoping.
This book falls firmly into the Mystery camp. And, that’s cool too! Totally. I like a juicy mystery from time to time. It doesn’t aaaalll have to be sexy times.
From the starring character, Angus Green (COOL name) who’s’ a newbie FBI agent, we dive into a few mysteries centering on one primary suspect and a handful of other potential baddies. Murder, theft, drugs, jewelry heists — and I may be forgetting one or two things but they all add plenty of intrigue. Angus signed on to the Bureau to be more of an accountant/desk jockey type Fed but winds up running all over South Florida in his first field assignment — because he’s got an inside track to the gay scene his uber-hetero contemporaries can’t seem to crack.
I was WILDLY interested in all the FBI business because it fascinates me endlessly. And, I can tell Neil S. Plakcy did some serious research, at least as far as I toss out my own meager knowledge.
As far as the mystery aspects, gotta say I’m not sure it was super mysterious. I feel like an abundance of details diluted the whodunit factor. We get an early inkling that’s cemented rather quickly as to who the bad guy is, but we don’t exactly know all his motivations or all of his dastardly deeds until they’re uncovered piece by piece. But it sure was fun to witness Angus figuring it all out using some unconventional methods that might not’ve been exactly by the book.
Angus, as the main dude, was spectacular and super entertaining. He’s a little geeky because he’s an accountancy-type data guy, but give the guy a Case File and Glock and release him into the wilds of Gay Miami and he proved himself to be a worthy field agent. Amusing, thoughtful, intuitive, and engaging.
There are a host of side characters, and the ones I really wanted to know we only get snippets of and aren’t so fully fleshed out in my mind. Being that Angus was so consumed with this case, maybe we’re not ready yet for more dirt on his long-suffering roommate or the hunky bouncer, Lester. I wanted more interaction and depth with them. I’m greedy like that.
Listen, that Romance hat of mine is never far from my reach *caresses reverently*. Angus and Lester get it on at least three times. YES, I COUNTED. But it’s all…not even fade to black…it’s basically lights out. Fade to black is fine. I get some authors just don’t want to go there with some characters or story arcs. I get it, and I don’t always have to have full-on hyped-up sex-scenes. (HUSH, I don’t!) But gosh, I wanted to feel more of an emotional connection to make me relate a smidge more to Angus as a person, not just the Fed.
BUT! This is definitely a solid and entertaining read with several laugh-out-loud moments and gripping action scenes. And I’m definitely interested in seeing where book two leads.
Also posted on BackPorchReader.com.
November 17, 2016
4.5 stars.
Featuring an intriguing storyline, a wonderful cast of characters and a fantastic setting, The Next One Will Kill You, the first book in Neil S. Plakcy's Angus Green series, is a riveting mystery starring a gay rookie FBI agent.
Accountant turned FBI Agent Angus Green is still learning the ropes at his new job when two fellow agents ask him to try to locate and interview a missing informant who works in a gay club. Eager to get out from behind his desk and into the field, he is quick to begin his investigation. Fearing the worst once he discovers Paco has missed work and no one has seen him in a few days, Angus uses his connections to try and track down the missing man. Although his official assignment is to locate Paco and ensure an upcoming jewelry show's security is strong enough to withstand an attack, Angus discovers startling information about a suspected pill mill operation. What, if any, link is there between the two cases?
Angus is a quick thinking, highly intelligent young man who is quite devoted to his younger brother, Danny. While pushing paper and crunching number is not overly exciting, he enjoys the challenge of working for the FBI. Angus is well-liked by everyone in his life and he has an uncanny ability to form an instant rapport with new acquaintances. This serves him well as he interviews Paco's friends and co-workers and he quickly follows every lead he uncovers. He is quite dedicated to his job and he puts in long hours filling out paperwork, following up on clues and staking out suspects. Although Angus is a little impetuous on occasion, he has a good head on his shoulders and excellent instincts as an investigator.
The hunt for the missing informant quickly takes a dark turn and this provides Angus an added incentive to get to the bottom of what happened to Paco. He also comes with a few plausible scenarios as to why the jewelry show is being targeted but he struggles to find proof to back up his theories. Angus unexpectedly stumbles onto a connection with another ongoing FBI investigation into a drug ring, but are the two cases related?
The Next One Will Kill You is a solid mystery with an engaging storyline and a cast of appealing characters. Angus is a tenacious sleuth with plenty of charm and an outgoing, sunny personality. The plot is interesting and the mystery is quite intriguing. Neil S. Plakcy's Angus Green series is off to a strong start with this first installment and fans of the genre will be eagerly awaiting the next mystery starring the intrepid FBI rookie agent.
Featuring an intriguing storyline, a wonderful cast of characters and a fantastic setting, The Next One Will Kill You, the first book in Neil S. Plakcy's Angus Green series, is a riveting mystery starring a gay rookie FBI agent.
Accountant turned FBI Agent Angus Green is still learning the ropes at his new job when two fellow agents ask him to try to locate and interview a missing informant who works in a gay club. Eager to get out from behind his desk and into the field, he is quick to begin his investigation. Fearing the worst once he discovers Paco has missed work and no one has seen him in a few days, Angus uses his connections to try and track down the missing man. Although his official assignment is to locate Paco and ensure an upcoming jewelry show's security is strong enough to withstand an attack, Angus discovers startling information about a suspected pill mill operation. What, if any, link is there between the two cases?
Angus is a quick thinking, highly intelligent young man who is quite devoted to his younger brother, Danny. While pushing paper and crunching number is not overly exciting, he enjoys the challenge of working for the FBI. Angus is well-liked by everyone in his life and he has an uncanny ability to form an instant rapport with new acquaintances. This serves him well as he interviews Paco's friends and co-workers and he quickly follows every lead he uncovers. He is quite dedicated to his job and he puts in long hours filling out paperwork, following up on clues and staking out suspects. Although Angus is a little impetuous on occasion, he has a good head on his shoulders and excellent instincts as an investigator.
The hunt for the missing informant quickly takes a dark turn and this provides Angus an added incentive to get to the bottom of what happened to Paco. He also comes with a few plausible scenarios as to why the jewelry show is being targeted but he struggles to find proof to back up his theories. Angus unexpectedly stumbles onto a connection with another ongoing FBI investigation into a drug ring, but are the two cases related?
The Next One Will Kill You is a solid mystery with an engaging storyline and a cast of appealing characters. Angus is a tenacious sleuth with plenty of charm and an outgoing, sunny personality. The plot is interesting and the mystery is quite intriguing. Neil S. Plakcy's Angus Green series is off to a strong start with this first installment and fans of the genre will be eagerly awaiting the next mystery starring the intrepid FBI rookie agent.
July 8, 2019
I won't summarize since my fellow Goodreaders have done a good job. Nice little story about a junior G man but.... there was NO romance. Most of this was focused on Angus' cases, his life as a new FBI agent with a small amount of info dumping - not sure I needed to know ALL of the roads in the Miami Beach/Ft. Lauderdale area. I spent most of the story wondering who Angus' MC was going to be. He had a few hookups with Lester that were off page! I read romance for a reason - I want romance some hot smexy bits and got a police procedural. Exciting in some parts but this should not have been labeled an MM romance. I understand that this is the first book and the author wishes to establish his character, friends, etc. but give me a little something - kisses, hugs - nope all we got was "I told him about my night with Lester, in all its gory and delicious detail" what detail! I also got a weird vibe with the author's use of broken English for the Mexican/Spanish speaking characters. Not sure why it bothered me but it did. While I like romantic suspense, I need a healthy balance of romance and suspense. Not sure I want to read book 2....
Read
December 3, 2016Another great book by Neil Plakcy
I can always trust Neil Plakcy to write books that I'll enjoy. And you don't have to be a gay man to appreciate his light touch with romance. Although, gay men possibly enjoy that part more than I, a lesbian, do. I didn't say that as well as I'd hoped to, but I'm sure you get my meaning. Mr. Plakcy is such a good writer that you don't have share the characters orientation to enjoy the light romance. There that's better. Here is a book full of characters you'll enjoy spending time with. The plot keeps you involved and the pacing carries you along at just the right clip. A thoroughly enjoyable book. Now my only problem is I have to wait for Neil to write me another. Please hurry Mr Plakcy.
I can always trust Neil Plakcy to write books that I'll enjoy. And you don't have to be a gay man to appreciate his light touch with romance. Although, gay men possibly enjoy that part more than I, a lesbian, do. I didn't say that as well as I'd hoped to, but I'm sure you get my meaning. Mr. Plakcy is such a good writer that you don't have share the characters orientation to enjoy the light romance. There that's better. Here is a book full of characters you'll enjoy spending time with. The plot keeps you involved and the pacing carries you along at just the right clip. A thoroughly enjoyable book. Now my only problem is I have to wait for Neil to write me another. Please hurry Mr Plakcy.
March 21, 2017
Fun introduction
Angus is a likable FBI rookie...specializing in forensic accounting but hoping for more excitement. Based in Florida, this book gives us glimpses into Angus' life: his younger brother, his room mate, his social life. He is active on the gay scene, and the book provides a view of multiple generations of gays and the differences therein based on history and experience.
Mostly a straightforward FBI mystery, centered on a very lucky rookie...
No sex scenes, some humor, likable main character, and limited angst. Some situations are touching, but the dry tone of Angus' earnest point of view leaves them for us to interpret and feel as we will.
Angus is a likable FBI rookie...specializing in forensic accounting but hoping for more excitement. Based in Florida, this book gives us glimpses into Angus' life: his younger brother, his room mate, his social life. He is active on the gay scene, and the book provides a view of multiple generations of gays and the differences therein based on history and experience.
Mostly a straightforward FBI mystery, centered on a very lucky rookie...
No sex scenes, some humor, likable main character, and limited angst. Some situations are touching, but the dry tone of Angus' earnest point of view leaves them for us to interpret and feel as we will.
November 6, 2017
Love this start of Neil S. Plakcy’s new series. A delightful blend of eager, guileless, and persistent aspect in a brilliant and enthusiastic rookie FBI agent. The romance side told as an aside yet still have impact to the character and the story. All was told in first person POV, in a very engaging story-telling way. I very much like Angus’s never stop probing for answers on every aspects. A very enjoyable and entertaining read!
December 2, 2016
Ahhh, it feels good to finish another book. Ok, so let's begin. I really enjoyed this book, for me the pacing was perfect. The author gave time for each days events to be processed by the character and the reader. The plot was also interesting to read about since I love anything with the FBI. The characters were also very fun to follow throughout the book. So yeah. I can't wait till another book in this series comes out, because I'll definitely be picking it up.
December 4, 2016
Good police procedural story with very lucky MC. The end was a bit too tame for my taste, though.
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