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Detective Max Rupert #2
The Guise of Another
A former Medal of Valor winner, Minnesota detective Alexander Rupert is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. So when he's asked to look into the false identity of a car-accident victim named James Putnam, a man who in fact died 15 years earlier, Rupert sees a potentially big case and an opportunity to regain his respectability.
But the investigation puts him in the path of "the Beast", the nom de guerre of Drago Basta, a cunning veteran of the Balkan wars and a sociopath assassin who has been searching for Putnam for years. Putnam had something that Basta still wants. If Rupert's life was in shambles before, it's now also in danger. Threatened by the Beast and suspecting his wife of cheating, Rupert falls for the seductions of the dead man's former girlfriend. As he feels his life spinning out of control, his steadfast brother and fellow police detective Max may be Rupert's last hope.
©2015 Allen Eskens (P)2015 Tantor
But the investigation puts him in the path of "the Beast", the nom de guerre of Drago Basta, a cunning veteran of the Balkan wars and a sociopath assassin who has been searching for Putnam for years. Putnam had something that Basta still wants. If Rupert's life was in shambles before, it's now also in danger. Threatened by the Beast and suspecting his wife of cheating, Rupert falls for the seductions of the dead man's former girlfriend. As he feels his life spinning out of control, his steadfast brother and fellow police detective Max may be Rupert's last hope.
©2015 Allen Eskens (P)2015 Tantor
Audible Audio
First published October 6, 2015
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About the author
Allen Eskens
14 books6,548 followersAllen Eskens is the USA Today-bestselling author of nine novels, including The Life We Bury and Nothing More Dangerous. His latest novel, THE QUIET LIBRARIAN, will publish on Feb. 18, 2025
He is the recipient of the Barry Award, Rosebud Award, Minnesota Book Award, and the Silver Falchion Award and has been a finalist for the Edgar Award, Thriller Award, Nero, and Anthony Award. His work had been published in 23 languages.
To learn more about Allen or his books, go to www.alleneskens.com.
He is the recipient of the Barry Award, Rosebud Award, Minnesota Book Award, and the Silver Falchion Award and has been a finalist for the Edgar Award, Thriller Award, Nero, and Anthony Award. His work had been published in 23 languages.
To learn more about Allen or his books, go to www.alleneskens.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,727 reviews
October 2, 2022
The Guise of Another (Detective Max Rupert #2) by Allen Eskens (Author), Jonathan Yen (Narrator)
This is my third Allen Esken book in a short time and I have plans to listen to his others, in the not too distant future (in fact, I'll start the next one tomorrow). I've enjoyed all three of the books that I've listened to but this one grabbed me a little less than the other two. Whereas the other two books dealt deeply with the characters I liked, I wasn't as drawn into the character of Alexander Rupert (Max Rupert's younger brother). Alexander's life is a mess since he's the subject of a grand jury because he is suspected of police corruption.
Hoping to save his reputation, Alexander digs deeply into the death of a successful business man who turns out to have been living under a false identity. Alexander's further investigations get him on the radar of an international assassin, a brutal man with no conscience, a man who will kill man, woman, or child without hesitation. As the story progressed, I had no faith in Alexander but I was on edge, hoping that he didn't pull Max into the sewer with him. This is a bloody story, showing us a wealthy, powerful, seedy world of politics and betrayal. Now I'm on to the next book, getting to spend more time with Alexander's brother, Max.
Pub October 6, 2015
This is my third Allen Esken book in a short time and I have plans to listen to his others, in the not too distant future (in fact, I'll start the next one tomorrow). I've enjoyed all three of the books that I've listened to but this one grabbed me a little less than the other two. Whereas the other two books dealt deeply with the characters I liked, I wasn't as drawn into the character of Alexander Rupert (Max Rupert's younger brother). Alexander's life is a mess since he's the subject of a grand jury because he is suspected of police corruption.
Hoping to save his reputation, Alexander digs deeply into the death of a successful business man who turns out to have been living under a false identity. Alexander's further investigations get him on the radar of an international assassin, a brutal man with no conscience, a man who will kill man, woman, or child without hesitation. As the story progressed, I had no faith in Alexander but I was on edge, hoping that he didn't pull Max into the sewer with him. This is a bloody story, showing us a wealthy, powerful, seedy world of politics and betrayal. Now I'm on to the next book, getting to spend more time with Alexander's brother, Max.
Pub October 6, 2015
May 17, 2017
3 Stars.
Missing That "Eskens" Something Special... with a little lifetime-tv movie rolled in..
"The Guise of Another" by Allen Eskens started out strong - with clear cut characters, who you invest in immediately: Alexander Rupert, is a Minnesota Detective (and is the brother of Max Rupert (from The Life We Bury and The Heavens May Fall – also by Allen Eskens) who, at the onset appears to have gotten himself into some kind of trouble and is now investigating dead end cases in the Frauds Unit. Add in the fact that his personal life has gone up in flames and you can't help but feel for the guy. All of a sudden, Detective Alexander Rupert happens upon a strange case of identity theft, and he feels invigorated. Little does he know, this case is not that simple.. it involves a beautiful woman and a deadly mercenary who will do anything to keep the past a secret. Detective Alexander Rupert has no interest in letting sleeping dogs lie however, no matter what the cost.
Allen Eskens' strong suit is his character development, which is highlighted here - in the building of Alexander Rupert's character throughout the book and as outlined in the relationship between Alexander and his brother Detective Max Rupert. Unfortunately, unlike Eskens' other two mystery/suspense novels "The Life We Bury" and "The Heavens May Fall," Eskens adds another element to the storyline, which I would describe as a lifetime tv-ish sub-plot that just didn't work well in my opinion, thus the reason for the 3 star rating. That said, the novel flowed well, was fast-paced and kept my attention. Though I didn't love this book, I really like Allen Eskens' writing style and love the Rupert brothers and can't wait to see what he has in store for us next!
Published on Goodreads and Amazon on 5.16.17.
Missing That "Eskens" Something Special... with a little lifetime-tv movie rolled in..
"The Guise of Another" by Allen Eskens started out strong - with clear cut characters, who you invest in immediately: Alexander Rupert, is a Minnesota Detective (and is the brother of Max Rupert (from The Life We Bury and The Heavens May Fall – also by Allen Eskens) who, at the onset appears to have gotten himself into some kind of trouble and is now investigating dead end cases in the Frauds Unit. Add in the fact that his personal life has gone up in flames and you can't help but feel for the guy. All of a sudden, Detective Alexander Rupert happens upon a strange case of identity theft, and he feels invigorated. Little does he know, this case is not that simple.. it involves a beautiful woman and a deadly mercenary who will do anything to keep the past a secret. Detective Alexander Rupert has no interest in letting sleeping dogs lie however, no matter what the cost.
Allen Eskens' strong suit is his character development, which is highlighted here - in the building of Alexander Rupert's character throughout the book and as outlined in the relationship between Alexander and his brother Detective Max Rupert. Unfortunately, unlike Eskens' other two mystery/suspense novels "The Life We Bury" and "The Heavens May Fall," Eskens adds another element to the storyline, which I would describe as a lifetime tv-ish sub-plot that just didn't work well in my opinion, thus the reason for the 3 star rating. That said, the novel flowed well, was fast-paced and kept my attention. Though I didn't love this book, I really like Allen Eskens' writing style and love the Rupert brothers and can't wait to see what he has in store for us next!
Published on Goodreads and Amazon on 5.16.17.
December 28, 2016
This little book was so unassuming and snuck up on me in the best way possible. Is it a police procedural? Yes. Is it a political thriller? Yes. Was it appealing in almost every way? Absolutely.
The brief summary is that a man has been living his life under the identity of James Putnam, but we find out very early on that he indeed is not James Putman. What follows is a whirlwind game of cat and mouse; the tricky part is figuring out who is the cat and who is the mouse.
I really don't want to give away any of the twists so I won't say much more about the plot. I think the characters were pretty well developed for such a short book (265 pages). There were 2 particular twists that I truly did not see coming and that pleased me greatly. The point of view switches a few times but it isn't difficult to keep up. This was a very easy read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. Lots of action with minimal graphic violence for those who are a bit squeamish.
The brief summary is that a man has been living his life under the identity of James Putnam, but we find out very early on that he indeed is not James Putman. What follows is a whirlwind game of cat and mouse; the tricky part is figuring out who is the cat and who is the mouse.
I really don't want to give away any of the twists so I won't say much more about the plot. I think the characters were pretty well developed for such a short book (265 pages). There were 2 particular twists that I truly did not see coming and that pleased me greatly. The point of view switches a few times but it isn't difficult to keep up. This was a very easy read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. Lots of action with minimal graphic violence for those who are a bit squeamish.
April 2, 2018
Last year (was it last year?) I read 'The life we bury' debut book of Allen Eskens and was blown away by this really great story. The Guise of Another seems to be the first sequel to The life we bury and I would give it say, mmmm... 3.4 rating. Not as good as The Life we bury, which just had more 'depth' and emotion, but still a solid psychological crime thriller, featuring detective Max Rupert, although his brother, Alexander Rupert, plays the main and tragic part. Brooding, dark and a sense that this just can not end right....?
This is what William Kent Krueger says about this book: Allen Eskens has conjured up a marvelously black spirit of a novel. It's a taut, intelligent, heart-ripping story that explores the darkest places in the human psyche...."
Who was James Putnam? Answering that question may mean salvation for Alexander Rupert, a detective whose life is in a serious downward spiral. A medal of valor winner, Alexander is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. He's been reassigned to the Frauds unit, where he is shunned by his fellow detectives, and he fears his status-seeking wife is having an affair. When he happens across a complex case of identity theft, he sees an opportunity to rehabilitate his tattered reputation. But the case explodes far more than he expected, putting him in the path of a trained assassin. As his life spins out of control, Alexander's last hope may be his older brother Max, a fellow detective who steps in to try and save his brother....
More to follow...I will certainly follow up to read the third and fourth book in this series by Allen Eskens.
This is what William Kent Krueger says about this book: Allen Eskens has conjured up a marvelously black spirit of a novel. It's a taut, intelligent, heart-ripping story that explores the darkest places in the human psyche...."
Who was James Putnam? Answering that question may mean salvation for Alexander Rupert, a detective whose life is in a serious downward spiral. A medal of valor winner, Alexander is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. He's been reassigned to the Frauds unit, where he is shunned by his fellow detectives, and he fears his status-seeking wife is having an affair. When he happens across a complex case of identity theft, he sees an opportunity to rehabilitate his tattered reputation. But the case explodes far more than he expected, putting him in the path of a trained assassin. As his life spins out of control, Alexander's last hope may be his older brother Max, a fellow detective who steps in to try and save his brother....
More to follow...I will certainly follow up to read the third and fourth book in this series by Allen Eskens.
November 7, 2019
I can’t believe it took me nearly a year and a half to read this second novel after the amazing first novel, The Life We Bury. This one holds the same tension and intensity as the first, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I hope that the gap time between this one and his third novel is much shorter. Allen Eskens knows how to create tight pressure in his stories and he keeps the action hopping and real to a heart pounding degree. I found this story to be compelling and brilliantly written.
October 29, 2017
After falling in love with his first book, THE LIFE WE BURY, and accidentally buying his latest and not realizing they are all loosely connected, I went back to listen/read this second book in the Eskens series. Whew, sorry for that really long sentence!
Anyway...this was just okay for me. I still love the way Eskens writes and tells a story. The plot is mildly interesting in this police procedural, especially if you are interested in identity theft and extreme tales of blackmail.
This book is missing the heart and soul that connects a reader to the characters. I see my fellow GR friends seem to feel the same as I do about this second book, but feel the next two in the series are much better.
So, I'm carrying on! I need Eskens to redeem himself with his third book, THE HEAVENS MAY FALL.
Anyway...this was just okay for me. I still love the way Eskens writes and tells a story. The plot is mildly interesting in this police procedural, especially if you are interested in identity theft and extreme tales of blackmail.
This book is missing the heart and soul that connects a reader to the characters. I see my fellow GR friends seem to feel the same as I do about this second book, but feel the next two in the series are much better.
So, I'm carrying on! I need Eskens to redeem himself with his third book, THE HEAVENS MAY FALL.
April 30, 2020
I seldom review my audiobooks that are older books but I really liked this one. It had enough action to satisfy thriller lovers and enough great character detail to satisfy mystery/literature lovers.
It's in this story that we begin to understand the character of Det. Max Rupert and why he later acts the way that he does. He has such love for his brother, Alexander, that it is tear jerking! What these two shared was something I could feel through the story.
The really horrific Drago Basta was a character of such little conscience that it was terrifying to listen to his thoughts. The narrator put such detail into his thoughts that I felt as though I knew what drove him to what he does, but still can't understand how someone could be such a cold blooded killer.
The narration on this audiobook was very good and I even found more things to "clean" in the house just to continue to listen to this audiobook. I highly recommend it.
I have come to love all of Mr. Eskens works, although his newest "Nothing More Dangerous" is still my favorite. Can't wait until his next book will be released. I know through Facebook that he is working on one to be released probably in a year!!
It's in this story that we begin to understand the character of Det. Max Rupert and why he later acts the way that he does. He has such love for his brother, Alexander, that it is tear jerking! What these two shared was something I could feel through the story.
The really horrific Drago Basta was a character of such little conscience that it was terrifying to listen to his thoughts. The narrator put such detail into his thoughts that I felt as though I knew what drove him to what he does, but still can't understand how someone could be such a cold blooded killer.
The narration on this audiobook was very good and I even found more things to "clean" in the house just to continue to listen to this audiobook. I highly recommend it.
I have come to love all of Mr. Eskens works, although his newest "Nothing More Dangerous" is still my favorite. Can't wait until his next book will be released. I know through Facebook that he is working on one to be released probably in a year!!
March 19, 2017
I'm officially a fan of Allen Eskens!!! I was blown away with his first book and I liked this one very much as well. Very entertaining.
October 22, 2022
"We've all done things in our lives that we wish we could do over." At first glance, you might not realize the ambiguity of this statement. Think about it for a bit, and the meaning is less than clear cut. Definitely something worth pondering.
What appears to be a simple case of identity theft grows legs and it's off to the races with Alexander Rupert (younger brother of Max Rupert, whom we know from this author's other novels) at the wheel. The ignominy of having been demoted from the drug task force to the fraud unit has been difficult for Alexander to accept. This case promises to allow him to finally feel like he is doing true police work again.
The story plays out at a slower pace than other Eskens' novels, but it is a worthy police procedural that kept my interest without a waver. The ending was killer, and quite right in my opinion. And now, I have devoured all of Allen Eskens oeuvre and am bereft. Once again, my lack of will power has served me ill. Waiting impatiently for the next one.
What appears to be a simple case of identity theft grows legs and it's off to the races with Alexander Rupert (younger brother of Max Rupert, whom we know from this author's other novels) at the wheel. The ignominy of having been demoted from the drug task force to the fraud unit has been difficult for Alexander to accept. This case promises to allow him to finally feel like he is doing true police work again.
The story plays out at a slower pace than other Eskens' novels, but it is a worthy police procedural that kept my interest without a waver. The ending was killer, and quite right in my opinion. And now, I have devoured all of Allen Eskens oeuvre and am bereft. Once again, my lack of will power has served me ill. Waiting impatiently for the next one.
July 14, 2018
This story stars with a bang, actually a crash, and it is a nonstop 100 mph ride from there. Eskens has woven another fine plot, this one involving identity theft and blackmail along with a cop’s quest for redemption. This keeps the pace taut and the twists and turns start piling up (along with the body count) as the book nears its conclusion. However too many moving parts, along with a trained assassin thrown in for good measure, left less room for character development and that made his first book much more enjoyable.
Eskens’ storytelling is engaging, the mystery runs deep and I give him extra points for not shying away from the only way this story could end. For entertainment and inventiveness, I’m rounding 3.5 stars up to 4 and looking forward to the next book in the series.
Eskens’ storytelling is engaging, the mystery runs deep and I give him extra points for not shying away from the only way this story could end. For entertainment and inventiveness, I’m rounding 3.5 stars up to 4 and looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 18, 2024
3 stars.
Worth the read, but not overly memorable.
An entertaining instalment in the series, although not my favourite. It was nice to get reacquainted with some of these characters but the plot failed to fully pull me in. I didn’t find that intense connection to the storyline I usually have with this authors work.
I look forward to reading further in this series as this is a favourite author of mine!
Audio rating: 4 stars. The narrator was entertaining and enhanced my overall enjoyment.
Worth the read, but not overly memorable.
An entertaining instalment in the series, although not my favourite. It was nice to get reacquainted with some of these characters but the plot failed to fully pull me in. I didn’t find that intense connection to the storyline I usually have with this authors work.
I look forward to reading further in this series as this is a favourite author of mine!
Audio rating: 4 stars. The narrator was entertaining and enhanced my overall enjoyment.
March 24, 2020
EXCERPT: 'What's the brother's name?'
'William Bartok Putnam. We followed up on the information, compared the birth certificates with city records. Putnam's parents are dead, died in a car crash back in '98, and the older brother's legit.'
'So you have your heir. You can rape your jewelry king to your heart's content.'
'You would think so, but not so fast with the happy ending.' Dogget folded his fingers together in order to give his words some dramatic weight. 'I sent William Bartok Putnam a contract to sign, allowing me to file a lawsuit on his behalf. I also sent him a copy of the obituary of his brother. A week later, I get the whole mess back with a simple note that read: 'That is not my brother. That is not James Erkel Putnam.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Who was James Putnam? Answering that question may mean salvation for Alexander Rupert, a Minnesota detective whose life is in a serious downward spiral. A Medal of Valor winner, Alexander is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. He’s been reassigned to the Frauds Unit, where he is shunned by his fellow detectives, and he fears his status-seeking wife may be having an affair. When he happens across a complex case of identity theft, Alexander sees an opportunity to rehabilitate his tattered reputation.
But the case explodes into far more than he could have expected, putting him in the path of trained assassin Drago Basta, a veteran of the Balkan wars who has been searching for “James Putnam” for years. As his life spins out of control, Alexander’s last hope may be his older brother, Max, a fellow police detective who steps in to try to save his brother from the carnage his investigation has let loose.
MY THOUGHTS: Like eating Weetbix without milk.
I loved Eskens' first novel that I read, The Life We Bury. The characters in that were so real you could have cohabitated with them. Particularly Joe Talbot. But although The Guise of Another shares some of the same characters (not Joe Talbot), this book doesn't have the same feel to it. I couldn't get a feel for any of the characters at all. The writing seemed dry and forced. It was overly focused on mundanities, to the point where it set my teeth on edge. Step by step Janet and John stuff.
I grabbed this because, as I said, I loved a previous book by this author. I didn't take too much notice of what the book was about. I am not a fan of books involving professional killers, or where characters are shot to get them out of the way. I prefer a little more finesse, a little more imagination.
The basic plot of this book was good - it had plenty of (unrealised) potential.
I will be reading more from Eskens, but I will also be taking a closer look at the subject matter before I commit myself.
I also don't think that the narrator, Jonathan Yen, helped. He could have been reading the telephone directory, there was that little variation in the tone of his voice. I don't think I would listen to another audiobook using this narrator.
😐😐.5
THE AUTHOR: Allen Eskens is the USA Today-bestselling author of The Life We Bury, The Guise of Another, The Heavens May Fall, the Deep Dark Descending and The Shadows We Hide. He is the recipient of the Barry Award, Rosebud Award, Minnesota Book Award, and the Silver Falchion Award and has been a finalist for the Edgar Award, Thriller Award, and Anthony Award. His work had been published in 21 languages and his debut novel, The Life We Bury is being developed for a feature film.
Allen lives with his wife, Joely, in greater Minnesota and is represented by Amy Cloughley of Kimberley Cameron and Associates, and is published by both Seventh Street Books and Mulholland/Little Brown.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of The Guise of Another by Allen Eskens, narrated by Jonathan Yen, and published by Tantor Audio. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'William Bartok Putnam. We followed up on the information, compared the birth certificates with city records. Putnam's parents are dead, died in a car crash back in '98, and the older brother's legit.'
'So you have your heir. You can rape your jewelry king to your heart's content.'
'You would think so, but not so fast with the happy ending.' Dogget folded his fingers together in order to give his words some dramatic weight. 'I sent William Bartok Putnam a contract to sign, allowing me to file a lawsuit on his behalf. I also sent him a copy of the obituary of his brother. A week later, I get the whole mess back with a simple note that read: 'That is not my brother. That is not James Erkel Putnam.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Who was James Putnam? Answering that question may mean salvation for Alexander Rupert, a Minnesota detective whose life is in a serious downward spiral. A Medal of Valor winner, Alexander is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. He’s been reassigned to the Frauds Unit, where he is shunned by his fellow detectives, and he fears his status-seeking wife may be having an affair. When he happens across a complex case of identity theft, Alexander sees an opportunity to rehabilitate his tattered reputation.
But the case explodes into far more than he could have expected, putting him in the path of trained assassin Drago Basta, a veteran of the Balkan wars who has been searching for “James Putnam” for years. As his life spins out of control, Alexander’s last hope may be his older brother, Max, a fellow police detective who steps in to try to save his brother from the carnage his investigation has let loose.
MY THOUGHTS: Like eating Weetbix without milk.
I loved Eskens' first novel that I read, The Life We Bury. The characters in that were so real you could have cohabitated with them. Particularly Joe Talbot. But although The Guise of Another shares some of the same characters (not Joe Talbot), this book doesn't have the same feel to it. I couldn't get a feel for any of the characters at all. The writing seemed dry and forced. It was overly focused on mundanities, to the point where it set my teeth on edge. Step by step Janet and John stuff.
I grabbed this because, as I said, I loved a previous book by this author. I didn't take too much notice of what the book was about. I am not a fan of books involving professional killers, or where characters are shot to get them out of the way. I prefer a little more finesse, a little more imagination.
The basic plot of this book was good - it had plenty of (unrealised) potential.
I will be reading more from Eskens, but I will also be taking a closer look at the subject matter before I commit myself.
I also don't think that the narrator, Jonathan Yen, helped. He could have been reading the telephone directory, there was that little variation in the tone of his voice. I don't think I would listen to another audiobook using this narrator.
😐😐.5
THE AUTHOR: Allen Eskens is the USA Today-bestselling author of The Life We Bury, The Guise of Another, The Heavens May Fall, the Deep Dark Descending and The Shadows We Hide. He is the recipient of the Barry Award, Rosebud Award, Minnesota Book Award, and the Silver Falchion Award and has been a finalist for the Edgar Award, Thriller Award, and Anthony Award. His work had been published in 21 languages and his debut novel, The Life We Bury is being developed for a feature film.
Allen lives with his wife, Joely, in greater Minnesota and is represented by Amy Cloughley of Kimberley Cameron and Associates, and is published by both Seventh Street Books and Mulholland/Little Brown.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of The Guise of Another by Allen Eskens, narrated by Jonathan Yen, and published by Tantor Audio. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
October 14, 2019
DEADLY TEMPTATIONS! False Identities. Lies. Greed. 4.5 Stars
Allen Eskens returns following sensational award-winning mystery debut, The Life We Bury, with a strong heart-pounding thriller, THE GUISE OF ANOTHER – A complex game of cat-and-mouse, between a cop and a ruthless assassin.
A twisted page-turner, multi-layered with metaphors and hidden meanings, what is real and what is true? Fraud. Guilt. Blackmail. Betrayal. Redemption. Nothing is as it appears.
Two distinct differences between Eskens first and second book. As noted by the author in a recent interview: “The Life We Bury is more character-driven and has a stronger emphasis on literary writing. THE GUISE OF ANOTHER is more reliant on thriller elements and plot.”
Summary: Alexander and Max, both detectives with the Minneapolis Police Department. Alex, the younger brother, is a Fraud detective whose life is in a downward spiral. Alexander comes across an identity theft case that he believes will rehabilitate his tattered reputation and dives into the case with all he has. The case explodes into far more than he expected, and Alexander's older brother Max Rupert (the homicide detective from The Life We Bury) steps in to try and save his brother from the carnage let loose by that investigation.
Hook from the Beginning: As the book starts, there is a steamy affair with some hot sexy action in a Lexus. Unfortunately, not a good way to be caught dead in a compromising situation (with your pants down).
James Putnam is killed when a Lexus slams head-on into his Porsche. (this has action written all over it—cars, sex, money, thrills). The accidental death of James Putnam ignites a dangerous chain of events involving corporate corruption, murder, blackmail and the race against time-- for an incriminating flash drive, by a dangerous serial killer.
Question: Who in the heck is the real James E. Putnam? A last departing message, from the dying man, “Find it, before they find her.” Even more intriguing, the man who died is not the real Putnam. Who is this impostor, and what happened to the real Putnam? What is his story?
Detective Alexander Rupert: Next we meet complex and troubled, Detective Alex Rupert, recently demoted from Narcotics to the Fraud Squad, while awaiting a federal investigation. Forgery and Frauds Unit from the scandal-ridden Joint Drug Enforcement Task Force. A wrecked career. A fall from grace.
He is determined to make a comeback to prove his worth. They think he is a bad cop—stealing drug money. Corruption and Scandal. Is he innocent or guilty? Could a new case return his respect and creditability? Was he tempted? Did he give in? Greed? A grand jury. Will he be able to restore his reputation, his family, his career?
Connection: As Alexander becomes immersed in the case, he connects it to a 15-year-old event involving blackmail and murder aboard a corporate yacht, sending the Minneapolis cop searching for answers—down a dangerous path.
Drago Basta, a powerful assassin working with giant defense contractor Patrio International, is intricately involved with the yacht explosion, and he emerges from the shadows to follow the detective’s every move.
Back Story: There is also an interesting back story with his older brother, a senior detective Max Rupert —-who calls his younger brother Festus. (Gunsmoke's Marshal Matt Dillon's second official deputy). He has always had to live in his brother’s shadow. He is not even sure his own older brother believes him.
He has been drowning over the last three months. The more Max tries to help; the more Alex pulled away. Two Rupert brothers. Which brother will catch the big fish? What about the relationship between Alex and his wife’s infidelity? Since the fall, their relationship, needless to say, stressed!
The Hunt: With a skillful and clever parallel story, Alexander wants desperately to solve the case. James Putnam is a fraud. A stolen identity. How can he uncover the truth before the grand jury trial?
Where and why did the impostor kill the original Putnam? Why would he steal another man’s identity? A video, a yacht, blackmail, a flash drive, a sociopath, a sexy femme fatale girlfriend tempting him, a safe deposit box, annual deposits to a bank account, desperation, former roommates, Bible names. Good versus evil. Clues. When the lines are blurred. A devil in disguise. Temptation. Choices. Some are deadly.
Rupert is obsessed with the case, Putnam’s life, his past, and his live-in girlfriend. Dark and twisted, with surprises around every corner, having you second guessing everyone.
Inside the Novel: While Eskens keeps you in suspense, he also delves into the relationships of the brothers with some human dynamics of loyalty, greed, and temptation.
A brilliant title, fitting for the lurking dark mood of uncertainty. (loved the front cover) for both book, and audio. From the dead man, the brothers, the killers, the marriage, the girlfriend, the betrayal…..two faces.
My thoughts: Wow, talking about jumping back into the fire! Rupert has enough problems before stumbling across the case, which will lead him into a dangerous downward spiral with an evil assassin on his trail, also after deadly information.
Intense, suspenseful, and fast-paced. Without giving away too much, readers will uncover some strong brotherly love and bonds here— the lengths they will go to protect those they love. Can a reputation be salvaged in the end?
Eskens has proven he can play with the big boys with two outstanding novels under his belt– (Seeing another Dean Koontz), with his literary flair; appealing to a wide audience. Lots of action, plot twists – an intricately woven mystery.
The only element I would add, which would have bumped the novel to a 5 Stars – More sarcastic humor and wit, to balance the heaviness and complexity of the story. (Guess I have been reading Paul Cleave and Karin Slaughter, too long). These two take cynical and wit to the limit.
However, overall, a well-written, highly creative compelling thriller--highly recommend. Most definitely entertaining! Hard to believe this is only his second novel.
Audio: I listened to the audiobook, and Jonathan Yen, also from Minnesota (now New York) delivered a suspenseful cautionary cat and mouse performance with a wide range of voices—and an intense cast of characters! To further enhance your overall experience, highly recommend the audio version. I was so glued to my device. Each time I was interrupted, quickly rewinding—you do not want to miss a thing.
I can’t wait to see what talented Eskens delivers next. (hopefully more from Max—looks like, we will get our wish) The author’s background as an attorney in criminal defense and former prosecutor, offers insights, investigative techniques, and tactics, reflective throughout the pages of his novels, with well-developed plots and rich characters.
Upcoming: The Big Thrill Interview with Eskens
When you see "Allen Eskens' name." you know to hit "Pre-Order" Something special will be waiting around the corner.
#JDCMustReadBooks
Allen Eskens returns following sensational award-winning mystery debut, The Life We Bury, with a strong heart-pounding thriller, THE GUISE OF ANOTHER – A complex game of cat-and-mouse, between a cop and a ruthless assassin.
A twisted page-turner, multi-layered with metaphors and hidden meanings, what is real and what is true? Fraud. Guilt. Blackmail. Betrayal. Redemption. Nothing is as it appears.
Two distinct differences between Eskens first and second book. As noted by the author in a recent interview: “The Life We Bury is more character-driven and has a stronger emphasis on literary writing. THE GUISE OF ANOTHER is more reliant on thriller elements and plot.”
Summary: Alexander and Max, both detectives with the Minneapolis Police Department. Alex, the younger brother, is a Fraud detective whose life is in a downward spiral. Alexander comes across an identity theft case that he believes will rehabilitate his tattered reputation and dives into the case with all he has. The case explodes into far more than he expected, and Alexander's older brother Max Rupert (the homicide detective from The Life We Bury) steps in to try and save his brother from the carnage let loose by that investigation.
Hook from the Beginning: As the book starts, there is a steamy affair with some hot sexy action in a Lexus. Unfortunately, not a good way to be caught dead in a compromising situation (with your pants down).
James Putnam is killed when a Lexus slams head-on into his Porsche. (this has action written all over it—cars, sex, money, thrills). The accidental death of James Putnam ignites a dangerous chain of events involving corporate corruption, murder, blackmail and the race against time-- for an incriminating flash drive, by a dangerous serial killer.
Question: Who in the heck is the real James E. Putnam? A last departing message, from the dying man, “Find it, before they find her.” Even more intriguing, the man who died is not the real Putnam. Who is this impostor, and what happened to the real Putnam? What is his story?
Detective Alexander Rupert: Next we meet complex and troubled, Detective Alex Rupert, recently demoted from Narcotics to the Fraud Squad, while awaiting a federal investigation. Forgery and Frauds Unit from the scandal-ridden Joint Drug Enforcement Task Force. A wrecked career. A fall from grace.
He is determined to make a comeback to prove his worth. They think he is a bad cop—stealing drug money. Corruption and Scandal. Is he innocent or guilty? Could a new case return his respect and creditability? Was he tempted? Did he give in? Greed? A grand jury. Will he be able to restore his reputation, his family, his career?
Connection: As Alexander becomes immersed in the case, he connects it to a 15-year-old event involving blackmail and murder aboard a corporate yacht, sending the Minneapolis cop searching for answers—down a dangerous path.
Drago Basta, a powerful assassin working with giant defense contractor Patrio International, is intricately involved with the yacht explosion, and he emerges from the shadows to follow the detective’s every move.
Back Story: There is also an interesting back story with his older brother, a senior detective Max Rupert —-who calls his younger brother Festus. (Gunsmoke's Marshal Matt Dillon's second official deputy). He has always had to live in his brother’s shadow. He is not even sure his own older brother believes him.
He has been drowning over the last three months. The more Max tries to help; the more Alex pulled away. Two Rupert brothers. Which brother will catch the big fish? What about the relationship between Alex and his wife’s infidelity? Since the fall, their relationship, needless to say, stressed!
The Hunt: With a skillful and clever parallel story, Alexander wants desperately to solve the case. James Putnam is a fraud. A stolen identity. How can he uncover the truth before the grand jury trial?
Where and why did the impostor kill the original Putnam? Why would he steal another man’s identity? A video, a yacht, blackmail, a flash drive, a sociopath, a sexy femme fatale girlfriend tempting him, a safe deposit box, annual deposits to a bank account, desperation, former roommates, Bible names. Good versus evil. Clues. When the lines are blurred. A devil in disguise. Temptation. Choices. Some are deadly.
Rupert is obsessed with the case, Putnam’s life, his past, and his live-in girlfriend. Dark and twisted, with surprises around every corner, having you second guessing everyone.
Inside the Novel: While Eskens keeps you in suspense, he also delves into the relationships of the brothers with some human dynamics of loyalty, greed, and temptation.
A brilliant title, fitting for the lurking dark mood of uncertainty. (loved the front cover) for both book, and audio. From the dead man, the brothers, the killers, the marriage, the girlfriend, the betrayal…..two faces.
My thoughts: Wow, talking about jumping back into the fire! Rupert has enough problems before stumbling across the case, which will lead him into a dangerous downward spiral with an evil assassin on his trail, also after deadly information.
Intense, suspenseful, and fast-paced. Without giving away too much, readers will uncover some strong brotherly love and bonds here— the lengths they will go to protect those they love. Can a reputation be salvaged in the end?
Eskens has proven he can play with the big boys with two outstanding novels under his belt– (Seeing another Dean Koontz), with his literary flair; appealing to a wide audience. Lots of action, plot twists – an intricately woven mystery.
The only element I would add, which would have bumped the novel to a 5 Stars – More sarcastic humor and wit, to balance the heaviness and complexity of the story. (Guess I have been reading Paul Cleave and Karin Slaughter, too long). These two take cynical and wit to the limit.
However, overall, a well-written, highly creative compelling thriller--highly recommend. Most definitely entertaining! Hard to believe this is only his second novel.
Audio: I listened to the audiobook, and Jonathan Yen, also from Minnesota (now New York) delivered a suspenseful cautionary cat and mouse performance with a wide range of voices—and an intense cast of characters! To further enhance your overall experience, highly recommend the audio version. I was so glued to my device. Each time I was interrupted, quickly rewinding—you do not want to miss a thing.
I can’t wait to see what talented Eskens delivers next. (hopefully more from Max—looks like, we will get our wish) The author’s background as an attorney in criminal defense and former prosecutor, offers insights, investigative techniques, and tactics, reflective throughout the pages of his novels, with well-developed plots and rich characters.
Upcoming: The Big Thrill Interview with Eskens
Joe Talbert was your immensely enjoyable protagonist in The Life We Bury. Will we see him again in the future? What about Max Rupert from THE GUISE OF ANOTHER?
“I have three novels planned for Max Rupert (two after THE GUISE OF ANOTHER). After that, I will come back to Joe Talbert and a sequel for The Life We Bury. There are ghosts in The Life We Bury that will be raised (figuratively) in the sequel. I like the idea of moving through a community of characters who know one another. The book I am currently writing has Max Rupert, the investigator from The Life We Bury, investigating a case in which Boady Sanden, the attorney from The Life We Bury is defending the suspect.
When you see "Allen Eskens' name." you know to hit "Pre-Order" Something special will be waiting around the corner.
#JDCMustReadBooks
January 30, 2020
Although this is Max Rupert #2, it mostly features his brother Alexander Rupert. Both brothers are cops. The bad guy, Drago Basta, gets fully fleshed out as well. The plot involved a case of stolen identity and a conspiracy that started years ago. I will definitely be reading the next book.
January 16, 2023
4 detective stars
I have been a huge fan of Allen Eskens, starting with The Life We Bury. I have read all of the books in that series and always knew that I wanted to read the Detective Max Rupert series in full. I was gifted the most recent Max book (#6) and now I'm on a quest to read the earlier ones.
This one mostly centers on Alexander Rupert, also a detective and Max's brother. There's a cloud hanging over Alexander and he needs to appear before a grand jury. He was on a task force that has been closed down pending a corruption investigation. Some of the evidence seized at drug busts never made it to police headquarters. Is Alexander guilty?
Now working the fraud unit, Alexander decides to entrench himself in his new case. A man claiming to be James Putnam was killed in an auto accident. His work takes him to New York to investigate and stirs up some very evil men, including an eastern European assassin named Drago.
Max is trying to help Alexander clear his name and the two are quite close. As this stolen identity case heats up, the assassin is chasing them, and I wasn't sure how it would all turn out.
It's clear that Allen Eskens is an excellent writer and sets the pace well. I didn't love this as much as the very first one, but quite good in other ways!
Next up: The Heavens May Fall
I have been a huge fan of Allen Eskens, starting with The Life We Bury. I have read all of the books in that series and always knew that I wanted to read the Detective Max Rupert series in full. I was gifted the most recent Max book (#6) and now I'm on a quest to read the earlier ones.
This one mostly centers on Alexander Rupert, also a detective and Max's brother. There's a cloud hanging over Alexander and he needs to appear before a grand jury. He was on a task force that has been closed down pending a corruption investigation. Some of the evidence seized at drug busts never made it to police headquarters. Is Alexander guilty?
Now working the fraud unit, Alexander decides to entrench himself in his new case. A man claiming to be James Putnam was killed in an auto accident. His work takes him to New York to investigate and stirs up some very evil men, including an eastern European assassin named Drago.
Max is trying to help Alexander clear his name and the two are quite close. As this stolen identity case heats up, the assassin is chasing them, and I wasn't sure how it would all turn out.
It's clear that Allen Eskens is an excellent writer and sets the pace well. I didn't love this as much as the very first one, but quite good in other ways!
Next up: The Heavens May Fall
October 18, 2022
4.25 Stars
May 24, 2017
This was a great book, making two in a row from this author (who's not too hard on the eyes either). A solid 4 stars for sure. I liked the Rupert brothers a lot, Alexander and Max, who are policemen in Minnesota. Max, the older brother, is the epitome of virtuous, while Alexander has a few things in his past that he doesn't want to think about. A case of stolen identity falls into Alexander's lap, and the fact that it seems to be much more complicated than he first thought makes him believe it will turn his career around, and maybe his marriage.
There's a vicious, murderous villain on the loose trying to stop Alexander from discovering his secret, and a few mysteries as well as twists that I certainly didn't see coming. I recommend.
There's a vicious, murderous villain on the loose trying to stop Alexander from discovering his secret, and a few mysteries as well as twists that I certainly didn't see coming. I recommend.
May 15, 2024
“The Guise of Another”, by Allen Eskens
4 brilliant stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another terrific work by Eskens!
This one was more violent and the author tried to add some humour to the dialogues but the storyline was gripping and very well executed.
The last 20% was riveting and I loved the conclusion.
PS. Lately I have not felt the need to write a full review, so I hope my followers will understand. 🙂
4 brilliant stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another terrific work by Eskens!
This one was more violent and the author tried to add some humour to the dialogues but the storyline was gripping and very well executed.
The last 20% was riveting and I loved the conclusion.
PS. Lately I have not felt the need to write a full review, so I hope my followers will understand. 🙂
January 3, 2017
Who was James Putnam?
The person who is believed to be James Putnam it turns out is not him. This is not a spoiler - it's in the description of the book but it does start the reader's journey down the path of this book. Detective Alexander Rupert is a Minnesota detective who needs some redemption. He is currently under investigation and his life is falling apart fast. He is assigned to work in the Fraud department and is not too popular with his fellow detectives as he is under investigation for corruption. He needs to win and win big in order to turn his troubled life around. He takes on a case of identity theft, hoping it will be enough to save his reputation with the force.
The phrase "be careful what you wish for" comes to mind as it appears that Detective Putnam has bitten off more than he can chew. He draws the attention of an assassin who is also looking for someone and the case becomes a cat and mouse chase for the truth. His brother Max, a fellow police detective tries to help him on this case but as one slips down the rabbit hole...can they be saved?
There were some twists with this book. I found the storytelling to be good. I did enjoy his other book "The life we bury" a more enjoyable read for me, but this was still very sound storytelling. Eskens is simply a great writer. His written word is so enjoyable to read. His writing is intelligent, his books are well thought out, paced and never feel too long nor too short. He is an Author who does not disappoint. I look forward to reading more of his books.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
The person who is believed to be James Putnam it turns out is not him. This is not a spoiler - it's in the description of the book but it does start the reader's journey down the path of this book. Detective Alexander Rupert is a Minnesota detective who needs some redemption. He is currently under investigation and his life is falling apart fast. He is assigned to work in the Fraud department and is not too popular with his fellow detectives as he is under investigation for corruption. He needs to win and win big in order to turn his troubled life around. He takes on a case of identity theft, hoping it will be enough to save his reputation with the force.
The phrase "be careful what you wish for" comes to mind as it appears that Detective Putnam has bitten off more than he can chew. He draws the attention of an assassin who is also looking for someone and the case becomes a cat and mouse chase for the truth. His brother Max, a fellow police detective tries to help him on this case but as one slips down the rabbit hole...can they be saved?
There were some twists with this book. I found the storytelling to be good. I did enjoy his other book "The life we bury" a more enjoyable read for me, but this was still very sound storytelling. Eskens is simply a great writer. His written word is so enjoyable to read. His writing is intelligent, his books are well thought out, paced and never feel too long nor too short. He is an Author who does not disappoint. I look forward to reading more of his books.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
January 23, 2020
Audio 5 Stars
Story 4.25 Stars
Story 4.25 Stars
November 3, 2024
I recently stumbled upon the work of Allen Eskens and was pleasantly surprised. I have devoured three of his books in short order and keep wanting more. Alexander Rupert stays strong as a member of the Minneapolis Police Department, even as the team with whom he worked is under investigation. He’s working an accident scene and tried to alert the family of one victim, only to realise that the man is not who he appears to have been. This sends Rupert to NYC for answers, which only alerts other troubling individuals of a mystery long thought silenced. Eskens delves into some sinister things in this great novel.
After a whirlwind of trouble within the Minneapolis Police Department, Alexander Rupert is waiting for the other shoe to drop in the grand jury. Suspected of being a part of a corruption ring working within MPD, Rupert has been reassigned to Fraud for the time being. He is the pariah of the team but hopes to rebuild that when he stumbles upon a case of identity theft stemming from an accident scene that left a few people dead.
The name James Putnam is a loose thread that Rupert seeks to tie off, but nothing is making sense. Even a trip to see his older brother, Detective Max Rupert, does not help Alexander with his case. It will require a trip following the breadcrumbs back to NYC, where the real James Putnam is said to have last been seen before apparently dying.
Armed with the spark and hunger to prove himself, Alexander Rupert tackles the big city, only to run into more apparent dead-ends. That is, until Detective Rupert triggers the ire of a former Balkan assassin who is also trying to tie up some loose ends of his own. Struggling to find answers and to stay alive, Alexander Rupert will have to uncover the truth and stay alive along enough to share this with his colleagues. A gripping story that had me reading well into the night, proving Allan Eskens has great storytelling abilities!
I enjoy discovering new authors and adding them to my reading list. Allen Eskens keeps providing great books tangentially tied to one another. This novel presents great narrative flow while making it easy for the reader to follow. Eskens builds a foundation with powerful storytelling and the momentum keeps things getting more intense. Characters provide strong backstories to shape the reading experience, adding depth to an already strong piece that moves in many directions. There are well-developed plot points that work well as things intensify, revealing truths and surprises for the reader to enjoy. Now that I have a handle on Allen Eskens novels, I will keep my binge going and engulfing myself in the Minneapolis community.
Kudos, Mr. Eskens, for this strong thriller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
After a whirlwind of trouble within the Minneapolis Police Department, Alexander Rupert is waiting for the other shoe to drop in the grand jury. Suspected of being a part of a corruption ring working within MPD, Rupert has been reassigned to Fraud for the time being. He is the pariah of the team but hopes to rebuild that when he stumbles upon a case of identity theft stemming from an accident scene that left a few people dead.
The name James Putnam is a loose thread that Rupert seeks to tie off, but nothing is making sense. Even a trip to see his older brother, Detective Max Rupert, does not help Alexander with his case. It will require a trip following the breadcrumbs back to NYC, where the real James Putnam is said to have last been seen before apparently dying.
Armed with the spark and hunger to prove himself, Alexander Rupert tackles the big city, only to run into more apparent dead-ends. That is, until Detective Rupert triggers the ire of a former Balkan assassin who is also trying to tie up some loose ends of his own. Struggling to find answers and to stay alive, Alexander Rupert will have to uncover the truth and stay alive along enough to share this with his colleagues. A gripping story that had me reading well into the night, proving Allan Eskens has great storytelling abilities!
I enjoy discovering new authors and adding them to my reading list. Allen Eskens keeps providing great books tangentially tied to one another. This novel presents great narrative flow while making it easy for the reader to follow. Eskens builds a foundation with powerful storytelling and the momentum keeps things getting more intense. Characters provide strong backstories to shape the reading experience, adding depth to an already strong piece that moves in many directions. There are well-developed plot points that work well as things intensify, revealing truths and surprises for the reader to enjoy. Now that I have a handle on Allen Eskens novels, I will keep my binge going and engulfing myself in the Minneapolis community.
Kudos, Mr. Eskens, for this strong thriller!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
March 15, 2019
Esken’s 2nd novel featuring Max Rupert is not as strong as the first (The Life We Bury), but it IS ‘solid’. I loved the beginning—the fatality in a bizarre auto accident proves to raise numerous questions. The man was living under someone else’s identity. So—who was this guy? And why was he living under another’s name? The answers to those questions are an opportunity for Detective Alexander Rupert to redeem his good name within the police force. His career is presently under federal investigation and he is due to appear soon before a Grand Jury. But Alexander’s inquiries unleash a hornet’s nest. A serious (and over-the-top) assassin is activated and the body count grows.
Max Rupert is focused on helping his brother prepare for the questions that will be asked about Alexander’s time with the Joint Drug Enforcement Task Force. But, he is also providing brotherly support in learning the story behind the ‘mystery’ man.
I look forward to reading more about Max in future offerings. Enjoy.
Max Rupert is focused on helping his brother prepare for the questions that will be asked about Alexander’s time with the Joint Drug Enforcement Task Force. But, he is also providing brotherly support in learning the story behind the ‘mystery’ man.
I look forward to reading more about Max in future offerings. Enjoy.
May 21, 2016
This didn't quite have the uniqueness/originality of Allen Eskens first novel The Life We Bury which was one of my top 5 books read in 2014, but it was still a right good read.
Hard to put down, a very quick read and lots of unexpected twists.
Will definitely be reading everything that this guy writes and looking forward to the next one due out later this year.
Hard to put down, a very quick read and lots of unexpected twists.
Will definitely be reading everything that this guy writes and looking forward to the next one due out later this year.
August 31, 2017
well I loved this book, this author doesn't go for fancy narratives or plots to move the story along, this is a simple story about a murderer for hire ,a secrete blackmail, a policeman with a dark past and another one with nothing to lose. I was introduced to this author in "The life we bury", and after reading that one i was surprised at how much i loved his way of writing , Believe me I have read a lot of books where authors try every plot twist there is to get you to read their book, and sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't , Allen Eskens is one of those classic writers that doesn't go for that , his goal is to give you a straight thriller book and he accomplishes that with ease. If you loved "the life we bury" , read this one, i can sure you you will love it.
October 21, 2017
There are some books you keep reading because of potential glimpsed when you begin. I decided to give this a try because it offered an interesting premise, the unfolding of a criminal case by what I erroneously considered the hero. By the end not one character had stepped into that role, the plot was cliched and predictable, gory, senseless, with a lie at the very end that was the final straw. For effort I might have given two stars, but the narrator was dreadful. I hesitate to leave bad reviews, but leaving good ones doesn't mean as much without honesty about ones that don't work for me. This was the latter.
May 13, 2017
Really enjoyed THE LIFE WE BURY and THE HEAVENS MAY FALL, but just did not fully engage with this one.....maybe my expectations were just too high......
October 21, 2015
This one has some turnarounds; trust betrayed on multiple levels in each story line and situation! In the personal, or in business of profession, and also within the crime. For each aspect it's the "two faces" of hypocrisy repeated. What is appealing and apparent is also most often façade for something else altogether.
Quite a body count too! That factor is over the top with Drago being worse than a 007 spy /assassin and that lost me one star. But the locale feel is superb for Minneapolis and surrounds. And the cops are real cops. Completely. If there is one factor in most of these action, crime city police genre that I find "off"- it is the nuance and association within the big city cop culture and its units. This one is realistic in that the criminal, the bosses, the idealistic, the departments of professional standards, add a few more bureaucratic layers too- they are ALL the enemy of a straight cop and a difficult case. No more than in the present either. Knowing many, many cops through their degree work over the years- it is getting more difficult all the time.
This book reflects some of that and the ending was a shocker. This is the only cop case novel in years that I had no inkling of some of the fallouts coming up. Some suspicion but never to the detailed epilogue.
In real life it is even harder to be a city policeman than to be the judge in Solomon's court. And you have 1 or 2 seconds to get to your own verdict. Can you tell I have been to two young cops' funerals, just this year.
Fiction for sure, but especially the dichotomy of "in service" investigations to and about dirty cop vs the REAL effort to get the hordes of destructors on the streets who explode daily and deadly mayhem- which is very real in my big city.
All the rest would make an excellent movie because of the numerous phony faces and replaced identities. In marriage, in relationship, and for fraud and ulterior purpose. Also in retrospect will the real Alexander stand up?
Quite a body count too! That factor is over the top with Drago being worse than a 007 spy /assassin and that lost me one star. But the locale feel is superb for Minneapolis and surrounds. And the cops are real cops. Completely. If there is one factor in most of these action, crime city police genre that I find "off"- it is the nuance and association within the big city cop culture and its units. This one is realistic in that the criminal, the bosses, the idealistic, the departments of professional standards, add a few more bureaucratic layers too- they are ALL the enemy of a straight cop and a difficult case. No more than in the present either. Knowing many, many cops through their degree work over the years- it is getting more difficult all the time.
This book reflects some of that and the ending was a shocker. This is the only cop case novel in years that I had no inkling of some of the fallouts coming up. Some suspicion but never to the detailed epilogue.
In real life it is even harder to be a city policeman than to be the judge in Solomon's court. And you have 1 or 2 seconds to get to your own verdict. Can you tell I have been to two young cops' funerals, just this year.
Fiction for sure, but especially the dichotomy of "in service" investigations to and about dirty cop vs the REAL effort to get the hordes of destructors on the streets who explode daily and deadly mayhem- which is very real in my big city.
All the rest would make an excellent movie because of the numerous phony faces and replaced identities. In marriage, in relationship, and for fraud and ulterior purpose. Also in retrospect will the real Alexander stand up?
April 23, 2020
Having read a few books by this author the plot is all too familiar and unlike the others. Nicely paced it's fairly predictable, a quality I'm not fond of. As Forrest Gump would mutter, "that's all I got to say about that"
January 1, 2019
After racing through Eskens' "The Life We Bury", I couldn't wait to read more in the Max Rupert series. This book takes place earlier in Rupert's life and is focused on Max Rupert's brother, Alexander, who like Max is also a cop. Alexander is working in the Fraud department after his fall from glory, when he is suspected of stealing money from drug dealers while working undercover. When an ambulance chasing lawyer comes to the Fraud unit with questions about the a car accident victim, James Putnam, a wealthy man with money from a questionable source.
Alexander starts digging and falls for the victim's girlfriend, Ianna. Only problem is that he has a wife that he loves, but when he discovers she is having an affair, he decides that his commitment to her isn't binding. Meanwhile, he is busy unraveling the secrets James Putnam had kept that made him, very wealthy. He discovers other murders and the victims were targets of government contractors that did the "fixing" for U.S. covert military operations funded through the military budgets. Unfortunately, one of the employees, an assassin is very distressed when Alexander gets to close to the truth. Now Alexander and Ianna are being hunted by the killer; will Max locate the identity of the killer and arrest (him or her) before it is to late?
This story is full of bloody mayhem. There is lots of intrigue and a race to catch the killer propels the action (which is the strength of the story). Using a man versus man perspective the author provides some insights into the motivations of all key players. Unfortunately, Max plays a very minor role in the story. This is a winning story for those who like action thrillers with a dose of gore. The 3 stars resulted with the weaknesses I found to powerful to dismiss. I had issues with the premise If you look past these plotting issues, it is a very fast-paced read. However, all the required reality suspension took away from the thrill of the discoveries, for me.
Alexander starts digging and falls for the victim's girlfriend, Ianna. Only problem is that he has a wife that he loves, but when he discovers she is having an affair, he decides that his commitment to her isn't binding. Meanwhile, he is busy unraveling the secrets James Putnam had kept that made him, very wealthy. He discovers other murders and the victims were targets of government contractors that did the "fixing" for U.S. covert military operations funded through the military budgets. Unfortunately, one of the employees, an assassin is very distressed when Alexander gets to close to the truth. Now Alexander and Ianna are being hunted by the killer; will Max locate the identity of the killer and arrest (him or her) before it is to late?
This story is full of bloody mayhem. There is lots of intrigue and a race to catch the killer propels the action (which is the strength of the story). Using a man versus man perspective the author provides some insights into the motivations of all key players. Unfortunately, Max plays a very minor role in the story. This is a winning story for those who like action thrillers with a dose of gore. The 3 stars resulted with the weaknesses I found to powerful to dismiss. I had issues with the premise If you look past these plotting issues, it is a very fast-paced read. However, all the required reality suspension took away from the thrill of the discoveries, for me.
October 13, 2015
The Guise of Another by Allen Eskens is the follow up to his award winning debut novel The Life We Bury. And he's crafted another great read!
There's a clever tie in connecting the two books. Detective Max Rupert was the homicide cop in The Life We Bury. But it is his younger brother Alexander who takes the lead role in The Guise of Another. Alexander is also a cop, but one demoted down to the Fraud Squad, pending the outcome of an internal investigation. A possible identity theft case that crosses his desk is much more involved than it appears on first glance.
"That night, James Erkel Putnam - a man who walked in daylight, but lived in shadows, a man who thought he had all the time in the world to seek forgiveness for his many sins - never stood a chance."
Alexander dives in, determined to salvage his reputation and his job by solving the case. And this reader also dived in and didn't look up 'til the wee hours of the morning! I desperately wanted to know who this man was and why he was living under another name. What did he do?
Eskens' first book was lighter in tone with innocent protagonists. This time, it's darker, with a decidedly noir feel to the story that I quite enjoyed. Is Alexander truly the innocent he proclaims? His self destructive behavior leaves the reader wondering.
I was kept on my toes the entire tale, not sure where Eskens was going to take his story. Throw in a nasty hitman, something quite valuable that everyone wants to get their hands on, more than one duplicitous woman and the plot thickens. But amongst all that, Eskens explores the relationships between the two brothers, between Alex and his wife and a few others.
The title is quite apt, applying to the dead man, but also to almost every other character, most who seem to be hiding something. Even 'good' brother Max Rupert, who is hands down my favourite character. I'd love to see him in another book, even in a peripheral role.
Another excellent page turner from Eskens. I highly recommend his books. Eskens is firmly on my must read list - I'll be eagerly awaiting his third novel.
There's a clever tie in connecting the two books. Detective Max Rupert was the homicide cop in The Life We Bury. But it is his younger brother Alexander who takes the lead role in The Guise of Another. Alexander is also a cop, but one demoted down to the Fraud Squad, pending the outcome of an internal investigation. A possible identity theft case that crosses his desk is much more involved than it appears on first glance.
"That night, James Erkel Putnam - a man who walked in daylight, but lived in shadows, a man who thought he had all the time in the world to seek forgiveness for his many sins - never stood a chance."
Alexander dives in, determined to salvage his reputation and his job by solving the case. And this reader also dived in and didn't look up 'til the wee hours of the morning! I desperately wanted to know who this man was and why he was living under another name. What did he do?
Eskens' first book was lighter in tone with innocent protagonists. This time, it's darker, with a decidedly noir feel to the story that I quite enjoyed. Is Alexander truly the innocent he proclaims? His self destructive behavior leaves the reader wondering.
I was kept on my toes the entire tale, not sure where Eskens was going to take his story. Throw in a nasty hitman, something quite valuable that everyone wants to get their hands on, more than one duplicitous woman and the plot thickens. But amongst all that, Eskens explores the relationships between the two brothers, between Alex and his wife and a few others.
The title is quite apt, applying to the dead man, but also to almost every other character, most who seem to be hiding something. Even 'good' brother Max Rupert, who is hands down my favourite character. I'd love to see him in another book, even in a peripheral role.
Another excellent page turner from Eskens. I highly recommend his books. Eskens is firmly on my must read list - I'll be eagerly awaiting his third novel.
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