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Owen McKenna #15
Tahoe Payback
The First Body Is Found On Lake Tahoe's Only Island When a man tells Tahoe Detective Owen McKenna that his girlfriend disappeared, McKenna wonders if the woman got cold feet and ran away. But when she turns up murdered on Fannette Island with red roses in her mouth, McKenna discovers that she used a scam charity to steal millions. More Bodies Follow A second victim is found with a tennis ball crammed into his mouth. A third has military medals in his cheeks. McKenna suspects that these victims also ran fraudulent charities. McKenna's Own Girlfriend Fears Attack While McKenna investigates the murders, his girlfriend Street Casey has reason to believe that her ex-con father, who's jumped parole, wants revenge for her testimony that put in him in prison decades ago. A Twisted Killer Plans A Devastating Climax It appears that the victims are all payback targets of a vigilante killer. McKenna finds lots of potential suspects. But he can't link any of them to the crimes. What he doesn't know is that both he and his girlfriend are about to face someone who wants them very dead...
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2017
285 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Todd Borg
29 books145 followersTodd Borg and his wife moved from Minnesota to Lake Tahoe in 1990. After his fourth Tahoe novel, he sold his business to write full time.
In addition to winning the Ben Franklin Award for Best Mystery of the Year, Todd Borg's Owen McKenna mysteries have been chosen for Top 5 Mystery lists by the prestigious Library Journal, and by Mystery News Reviewer G. Wedgwood. He's won Best Mystery and Best Thriller honors from the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association and received Best New Fiction accolades from libraries. His novels have also received starred reviews and raves in major trade journals and newspapers across the country.
Todd Borg and his wife live on Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
Series:
* Owen McKenna Mystery
In addition to winning the Ben Franklin Award for Best Mystery of the Year, Todd Borg's Owen McKenna mysteries have been chosen for Top 5 Mystery lists by the prestigious Library Journal, and by Mystery News Reviewer G. Wedgwood. He's won Best Mystery and Best Thriller honors from the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association and received Best New Fiction accolades from libraries. His novels have also received starred reviews and raves in major trade journals and newspapers across the country.
Todd Borg and his wife live on Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
Series:
* Owen McKenna Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 30, 2017
What could possibly have motivated a murderer to leave his victims in such horrific positions? Revenge? Payback? Or just plain evil?
The murderer would hang the victims upside down with items in their mouths that would indicate something about what they had done.
TAHOE PAYBACK opens with a murderer walking the victim to her place of death. The method of death was pretty grizzly, and this wasn't the end of the terror.
When McKenna is approached by a man who says his girlfriend is missing and needs McKenna’s help, he gets involved in this and other similar cases. This woman was the unlucky first victim hung upside down with roses in her mouth.
Victim Number Two was also hung upside down with a tennis ball in his mouth along with a plastic tennis player wedged in the side of his mouth.
Victim Number Three was hung upside down from an Amtrak train and had military medals in his mouth.
We follow McKenna as he investigates in his unorthodox, but workable ways. It always is a treat to see how he looks for clues and works alone as well as with his Great Dane, Spot.
As McKenna investigates, he finds corruption in a huge charity that Victim Number One was in charge of. The victim ran a multi-million dollar collection scam and kept all the money herself.
TAHOE PAYBACK seemed a bit more gruesome than Mr. Todd's other books. The murder scenes were chilling. Can you imagine being hung upside down?
Despite the extra grizzly scenes, the writing was marvelous as always, had a great story line, and hinted at the unscrupulous dealings of some charities.
We also get to re-visit with Street, McKenna’s girlfriend, and her dog Blondie.
If you have never read a Todd Borg novel, you need to...non-stop action, tension, lovable characters, and you always learn something new.
TAHOE PAYBACK is another Todd Borg mystery you won't figure out.
If this is your first book by Todd Borg or you are a loyal fan, you won't be disappointed.
ENJOY!! 5/5
This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The murderer would hang the victims upside down with items in their mouths that would indicate something about what they had done.
TAHOE PAYBACK opens with a murderer walking the victim to her place of death. The method of death was pretty grizzly, and this wasn't the end of the terror.
When McKenna is approached by a man who says his girlfriend is missing and needs McKenna’s help, he gets involved in this and other similar cases. This woman was the unlucky first victim hung upside down with roses in her mouth.
Victim Number Two was also hung upside down with a tennis ball in his mouth along with a plastic tennis player wedged in the side of his mouth.
Victim Number Three was hung upside down from an Amtrak train and had military medals in his mouth.
We follow McKenna as he investigates in his unorthodox, but workable ways. It always is a treat to see how he looks for clues and works alone as well as with his Great Dane, Spot.
As McKenna investigates, he finds corruption in a huge charity that Victim Number One was in charge of. The victim ran a multi-million dollar collection scam and kept all the money herself.
TAHOE PAYBACK seemed a bit more gruesome than Mr. Todd's other books. The murder scenes were chilling. Can you imagine being hung upside down?
Despite the extra grizzly scenes, the writing was marvelous as always, had a great story line, and hinted at the unscrupulous dealings of some charities.
We also get to re-visit with Street, McKenna’s girlfriend, and her dog Blondie.
If you have never read a Todd Borg novel, you need to...non-stop action, tension, lovable characters, and you always learn something new.
TAHOE PAYBACK is another Todd Borg mystery you won't figure out.
If this is your first book by Todd Borg or you are a loyal fan, you won't be disappointed.
ENJOY!! 5/5
This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation in return for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 18, 2022
A man hires Owen McKenna to find his free spirited girlfriend. At first Owen thinks maybe she just dumped the guy, but soon, her body is found murdered, with red roses in her mouth.
Owen starts poking around, and finds she was the head of a fake charity. Other people like her wind up dead, and wouldn't you know it? there's a whole convention for heads of fake charities in town, all of whom are targets.
To be honest, I rather thought these people deserved their fate, but we can't have murderers running around.
Pretty good. The descriptions of the various fake charity scams were chilling in their familiarity, and really made me angry people would do this. I don't often have an emotional reaction like that to a book.
Owen starts poking around, and finds she was the head of a fake charity. Other people like her wind up dead, and wouldn't you know it? there's a whole convention for heads of fake charities in town, all of whom are targets.
To be honest, I rather thought these people deserved their fate, but we can't have murderers running around.
Pretty good. The descriptions of the various fake charity scams were chilling in their familiarity, and really made me angry people would do this. I don't often have an emotional reaction like that to a book.
July 31, 2017
(Actually 4.5 stars)
I love summer, and one of the things about the season that makes me smile is the fact that there will be a new Owen McKenna mystery to read. McKenna is a retired San Francisco homicide detective who doesn't own a gun. He enjoys art, loves the breathtakingly gorgeous area called Lake Tahoe, has a wonder dog named Spot, and is willing to love and accept his girlfriend, Street, on her own terms. The fact that he's fantastic at catching bad guys is just icing on the cake.
If you love dogs, you're going to love Spot the harlequin Great Dane. The bond between Spot and Owen is unbreakable, and although I called him a wonder dog, Spot is just a dog-- a dog who's been cared for and trained by a man who isn't really complete without him. McKenna's close observation of his constant companion means that Spot is not only excellent company and a fine guard dog, he could double as a therapy dog or a tracking dog. I could be facetious and say that he could probably deliver the mail or be governor, too, but that wouldn't be right. Spot is never portrayed as anything other than a well-trained dog with loads of personality. That's what makes him such a wonderful character.
Borg always shares a bit of Tahoe history with readers as well as the beauty that can be found all around, but the story is always important in an Owen McKenna mystery. This time Borg takes a very large shovel and digs up the unsavory facts about charities. Charities rake in a cool $1 billion per day. (No, that's not a typo.) So many legal loopholes exist that the unscrupulous think nothing of forming phony charities to fleece unsuspecting people who only want their hard-earned dollars to do good. There's not even any real watch dog agency to winnow out these fakes. The author takes these facts and builds them into a story that will fill readers with dismay-- and anger. However, readers will also find common sense tips on how to choose charities wisely.
If there's any weakness at all in Tahoe Payback, it's that the story was a bit top heavy with charity information at the expense of Street's being stalked by her (very scary) father. I usually rave about Owen and Spot and neglect to say much about Street, but I love her, too. She's strong and smart and knows what is best for her own well being (as well as Owen's and Spot's). She's also full of common sense, taking appropriate measures when she learns that Daddy Dearest has jumped parole. Owen wouldn't be quite the man he is without her. Theirs is one of my favorite fictional relationships.
I loved Tahoe Payback. Once again, this talented writer has given readers a fast-paced, absorbing, and memorable story. When I have a new Owen McKenna mystery in my hands, I always want to start reading and not stop until I've turned the last page. This is one of my favorite series, and I highly recommend it to all of you.
I love summer, and one of the things about the season that makes me smile is the fact that there will be a new Owen McKenna mystery to read. McKenna is a retired San Francisco homicide detective who doesn't own a gun. He enjoys art, loves the breathtakingly gorgeous area called Lake Tahoe, has a wonder dog named Spot, and is willing to love and accept his girlfriend, Street, on her own terms. The fact that he's fantastic at catching bad guys is just icing on the cake.
If you love dogs, you're going to love Spot the harlequin Great Dane. The bond between Spot and Owen is unbreakable, and although I called him a wonder dog, Spot is just a dog-- a dog who's been cared for and trained by a man who isn't really complete without him. McKenna's close observation of his constant companion means that Spot is not only excellent company and a fine guard dog, he could double as a therapy dog or a tracking dog. I could be facetious and say that he could probably deliver the mail or be governor, too, but that wouldn't be right. Spot is never portrayed as anything other than a well-trained dog with loads of personality. That's what makes him such a wonderful character.
Borg always shares a bit of Tahoe history with readers as well as the beauty that can be found all around, but the story is always important in an Owen McKenna mystery. This time Borg takes a very large shovel and digs up the unsavory facts about charities. Charities rake in a cool $1 billion per day. (No, that's not a typo.) So many legal loopholes exist that the unscrupulous think nothing of forming phony charities to fleece unsuspecting people who only want their hard-earned dollars to do good. There's not even any real watch dog agency to winnow out these fakes. The author takes these facts and builds them into a story that will fill readers with dismay-- and anger. However, readers will also find common sense tips on how to choose charities wisely.
If there's any weakness at all in Tahoe Payback, it's that the story was a bit top heavy with charity information at the expense of Street's being stalked by her (very scary) father. I usually rave about Owen and Spot and neglect to say much about Street, but I love her, too. She's strong and smart and knows what is best for her own well being (as well as Owen's and Spot's). She's also full of common sense, taking appropriate measures when she learns that Daddy Dearest has jumped parole. Owen wouldn't be quite the man he is without her. Theirs is one of my favorite fictional relationships.
I loved Tahoe Payback. Once again, this talented writer has given readers a fast-paced, absorbing, and memorable story. When I have a new Owen McKenna mystery in my hands, I always want to start reading and not stop until I've turned the last page. This is one of my favorite series, and I highly recommend it to all of you.
July 29, 2017
My caveat to this review: I have read all of the "Tahoe" series by Todd Borg, enjoying each knowing I will not guess "who done it". It is a page turner until the end, as McKenna must find the serial killer and protect, Street Casey, his girlfriend from a stalker.
The latest one, "Tahoe Payback" does not disappoint. Owen McKenna is hired to find a wealthy man's girlfriend and from there we are on another exciting adventure, along with exquisite descriptions of the Tahoe National Forest. Owen is thrown into finding a killer who dispatches his victims in a torturous and macabre statement. And, of course, Owen depends on his Great Dane, Spot to sniff out clues, protect Street Casey, and help calm frightened clients.
We are introduced to several potential suspects as McKenna races throughout Northern California looking for the killer before he/she strikes again. As Owen is getting closer to the connection between victims, we the reader are also introduced to information regarding charity scams.
Meanwhile, Street is stalked by her father, who jumped parole, with the intent of murdering her for testifying against him for killing her brother. In an attempt to find a Tahoe killer and protect Street, McKenna teaches her self-defense. The author, also provides excellent detail on how to use these techniques.
Todd Borg's Tahoe mysteries are written to entice the reader to be part of the hunt, view the beauty of Tahoe Lake and forest and learn as McKenna does about the undercurrents of motives for murder. And best of all, following the clues to the killer.
Karie Wyble
Todd Borg
The latest one, "Tahoe Payback" does not disappoint. Owen McKenna is hired to find a wealthy man's girlfriend and from there we are on another exciting adventure, along with exquisite descriptions of the Tahoe National Forest. Owen is thrown into finding a killer who dispatches his victims in a torturous and macabre statement. And, of course, Owen depends on his Great Dane, Spot to sniff out clues, protect Street Casey, and help calm frightened clients.
We are introduced to several potential suspects as McKenna races throughout Northern California looking for the killer before he/she strikes again. As Owen is getting closer to the connection between victims, we the reader are also introduced to information regarding charity scams.
Meanwhile, Street is stalked by her father, who jumped parole, with the intent of murdering her for testifying against him for killing her brother. In an attempt to find a Tahoe killer and protect Street, McKenna teaches her self-defense. The author, also provides excellent detail on how to use these techniques.
Todd Borg's Tahoe mysteries are written to entice the reader to be part of the hunt, view the beauty of Tahoe Lake and forest and learn as McKenna does about the undercurrents of motives for murder. And best of all, following the clues to the killer.
Karie Wyble
Todd Borg
September 9, 2017
Another Owen McKenna Classic
I originally started reading this series in appreciation of its Tahoe setting, but after reading all fifteen books in this series, I've really come to appreciate the relationship between Owen and his fiercely independent female friend, Street. Street is emotionally scarred from a traumatic childhood and a father, who, just out of the pen has had years to plot murdering her. Owen teaches Street how to protect herself and her independence. That said, I keep waiting for Owen to ask Street to marry him and for Street to let go of the past. That doesn't happen here. As a reader, I love these two characters and want them to have a happy ending, but these books cause me to think that maybe Street and Owen set their own less traditional happy ending in a spirit of the West kind of way.
This book also takes on the concept of charity scams. While I think there are many worthwhile charities, I think this book and research going into it did cause me to raise my eyebrows and think twice.
As to the mystery a thriller nature of this book, it was top notch with many viable suspects that kept me guessing until the end. As per tradition, Owen and his dog Spot "find the suspect" and subdue him.
Can't wait for the next episode from Todd Borg.
I originally started reading this series in appreciation of its Tahoe setting, but after reading all fifteen books in this series, I've really come to appreciate the relationship between Owen and his fiercely independent female friend, Street. Street is emotionally scarred from a traumatic childhood and a father, who, just out of the pen has had years to plot murdering her. Owen teaches Street how to protect herself and her independence. That said, I keep waiting for Owen to ask Street to marry him and for Street to let go of the past. That doesn't happen here. As a reader, I love these two characters and want them to have a happy ending, but these books cause me to think that maybe Street and Owen set their own less traditional happy ending in a spirit of the West kind of way.
This book also takes on the concept of charity scams. While I think there are many worthwhile charities, I think this book and research going into it did cause me to raise my eyebrows and think twice.
As to the mystery a thriller nature of this book, it was top notch with many viable suspects that kept me guessing until the end. As per tradition, Owen and his dog Spot "find the suspect" and subdue him.
Can't wait for the next episode from Todd Borg.
April 4, 2019
I have read all of Todd Borg's previous thriller mysteries and it seems that Borg is full of surprises because Tahoe Payback is even more captivating than the volumes before it. Like all his other novels Tahoe Payback follows the life of Tahoe native Owen Mckenna and his lovable great dane Spot. Borg is commonly known for his frustratingly good cliff hangers that conclude most chapters in his book. Tahoe Detective Owen McKenna is hired to look into the disappearance of a young lady who turns up dead on Fannette island in Emerald Bay where she had been found strung up and had three roses placed in her mouth then the killer left her to die in the freezing temperature. McKenna finds out who this lady really is and learns she ran a scam
charity to steal millions. But soon a second victim appears and it seems that the killer put tennis balls in the victim's mouth and soon after a third appears with military metal lodged into their face. Could these victims have all operated charity scams and were their deaths an act of payback by a vigilante killer. Owen thinks he's figured out who this vigilante killer is but he learns that this killer wants him very dead.
If u have followed Borgs previous stories you would see the effort put into these books and how he’s trying to get his readers to love his work and want more of it. It discusses family problems and real-life scandals that happen every day and go unnoticed. Borg switches it up between predictable and mysterious throughout the book. He gives u just enough of the facts for u to piece things together but not enough for you to fully understand what is going on. Borg doesn’t go into a complete description of what’s going on due to the fact that he wants you to keep reading in order to figure out how things end. This is completely different from a writer such as JK Rowling who is very descriptive in order to allow the reader to fully understand what is happening in the text.
His previous novel are more commonly read by people over the age of 14 all the way to people in their 70’s. Younger people might not understand the reality in his text even with the book being Fiction. Both males and females would enjoy this book because it's a thriller and constantly changes directions. If you are into mystery than this book would be a great choice for you. Borgs leaves his readers wanting more as they flip from page to page and wondering what will happen to Owen and his dog Spot. Will they catch the cold-blooded killer? Or will the killer catch them? Come read the 15th volume of Todd Borg's mystery thrillers and get to know Owen Mckenna a little better.
charity to steal millions. But soon a second victim appears and it seems that the killer put tennis balls in the victim's mouth and soon after a third appears with military metal lodged into their face. Could these victims have all operated charity scams and were their deaths an act of payback by a vigilante killer. Owen thinks he's figured out who this vigilante killer is but he learns that this killer wants him very dead.
If u have followed Borgs previous stories you would see the effort put into these books and how he’s trying to get his readers to love his work and want more of it. It discusses family problems and real-life scandals that happen every day and go unnoticed. Borg switches it up between predictable and mysterious throughout the book. He gives u just enough of the facts for u to piece things together but not enough for you to fully understand what is going on. Borg doesn’t go into a complete description of what’s going on due to the fact that he wants you to keep reading in order to figure out how things end. This is completely different from a writer such as JK Rowling who is very descriptive in order to allow the reader to fully understand what is happening in the text.
His previous novel are more commonly read by people over the age of 14 all the way to people in their 70’s. Younger people might not understand the reality in his text even with the book being Fiction. Both males and females would enjoy this book because it's a thriller and constantly changes directions. If you are into mystery than this book would be a great choice for you. Borgs leaves his readers wanting more as they flip from page to page and wondering what will happen to Owen and his dog Spot. Will they catch the cold-blooded killer? Or will the killer catch them? Come read the 15th volume of Todd Borg's mystery thrillers and get to know Owen Mckenna a little better.
October 16, 2017
Owen McKenna is asked to look into the disappearance of Douglas Fairbanks female friend, Isadore. She is found but she has been hung upside down, exposed to a cold storm, and had three roses shoved into her mouth and through her cheek. Sounds strange until Owen starts looking into her. It seems she was involved in charities. Owen starts looking into how many people have learned to work the system to profit from the donations to their charities.
But this is not a one-time kill. Another charity owner is found hung from a flag pole with a tennis ball in his mouth. Then another off a train that stops in Truckee with a medal in his cheek. Someone is hunting down those that have been ripping donors off for years. It’s up to Owen to find the killer before more charity owners get strung up.
Owen gets a crash course in charities, how they work, and how easy it is to use then to scam millions from people. It’s scary to think that this actually happens in real life. I can completely relate to the killer and don’t blame him but then again you can’t have people doing random killings.
Other part to this story is about Street. I love this woman, she has gone through hell and has become such a strong, independent woman. I love how Owen works with her with valid self-defense techniques. He loves her enough to give her the space she wants.
You can’t go wrong with a Todd Borg story. You will be one your toes guessing and who the killer is and you will learn more than just a customary glance at the topic of the stories. For Tahoe Payback it was charities. I have to say that I am now more hesitant to donate to charities now.
I received Tahoe Payback from the author for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
But this is not a one-time kill. Another charity owner is found hung from a flag pole with a tennis ball in his mouth. Then another off a train that stops in Truckee with a medal in his cheek. Someone is hunting down those that have been ripping donors off for years. It’s up to Owen to find the killer before more charity owners get strung up.
Owen gets a crash course in charities, how they work, and how easy it is to use then to scam millions from people. It’s scary to think that this actually happens in real life. I can completely relate to the killer and don’t blame him but then again you can’t have people doing random killings.
Other part to this story is about Street. I love this woman, she has gone through hell and has become such a strong, independent woman. I love how Owen works with her with valid self-defense techniques. He loves her enough to give her the space she wants.
You can’t go wrong with a Todd Borg story. You will be one your toes guessing and who the killer is and you will learn more than just a customary glance at the topic of the stories. For Tahoe Payback it was charities. I have to say that I am now more hesitant to donate to charities now.
I received Tahoe Payback from the author for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
December 11, 2017
I have read several books in the Owen McKenna series, and always look forward to the latest adventures involving Owen, Street, the recurring law enforcement characters, and the dogs, Spot and Blondie. Took me longer to finish this one than the others because the main plot dragged a little and seemed slightly more dark than others in the series. The secondary plot was carried over from the previous book, Tahoe Dark, and I wish there had been a little more development in Tahoe Payback prior to the conclusion. It seemed a bit rushed. Would still recommend this, and others in the McKenna series. Todd Borg’s descriptions of the Tahoe area almost make you feel like you are there. Another solid effort. Will read others in this series.
December 28, 2017
Makes You Think More Deeply Than Just the Plot
I don't write many reviews, partially out of laziness and partially out of ignorance insecurity of not expressing myself eloquently (for lack of a better word). As the real "reviewers" proclaim , it is a fast paced enjoyable read. I offer my review because the characters, their fears and the way see themselves really made me think. They know themselves are sensitive to others with different strengths, weaknesses and life experiences. It gives the reader a lot to ponder. On top of this you get insights into self-defense, managing fear, managing life's disappointments and may gain some appreciation for science, art and how we can help the world to be a better place. You may also discover where true joy comes from.
I don't write many reviews, partially out of laziness and partially out of ignorance insecurity of not expressing myself eloquently (for lack of a better word). As the real "reviewers" proclaim , it is a fast paced enjoyable read. I offer my review because the characters, their fears and the way see themselves really made me think. They know themselves are sensitive to others with different strengths, weaknesses and life experiences. It gives the reader a lot to ponder. On top of this you get insights into self-defense, managing fear, managing life's disappointments and may gain some appreciation for science, art and how we can help the world to be a better place. You may also discover where true joy comes from.
August 1, 2017
This is one of Borg's most intriguing mystery thrillers yet...they just keep getting better and better! As he lays out the plot and takes you through the chain-of-events, it becomes more baffling as to who the perpetrator/s actually is due to the fact there are a number of individuals who may have motive.
It is also thrilling to follow the Owen McKenna character in his stories (McKenna being an ex-cop that no longer has a desire to carry a weapon). McKenna always seems to get himself into dangerous situations that leave you in suspense as to how he is going to safely get himself out of them.
It is also thrilling to follow the Owen McKenna character in his stories (McKenna being an ex-cop that no longer has a desire to carry a weapon). McKenna always seems to get himself into dangerous situations that leave you in suspense as to how he is going to safely get himself out of them.
August 5, 2017
Excellent mystery/thriller that is well thought out
Todd Borg has once again created a must read mystery. This book is more introspective with a bit of poetry. I like the deeper philosophy of the characters. Owen McKenna is once again part investigation and this he's after a serial killer. Street Casey, Owen's girlfriend is also having her own situation because she believes her father who was recently paroled from prison is coming to Lake Tahoe to kill her for testifying against him in this trial that put him in prison for decades. This tale Borg writes as many twist and unexpected turns. The conclusion is explosive and all thought out.
Todd Borg has once again created a must read mystery. This book is more introspective with a bit of poetry. I like the deeper philosophy of the characters. Owen McKenna is once again part investigation and this he's after a serial killer. Street Casey, Owen's girlfriend is also having her own situation because she believes her father who was recently paroled from prison is coming to Lake Tahoe to kill her for testifying against him in this trial that put him in prison for decades. This tale Borg writes as many twist and unexpected turns. The conclusion is explosive and all thought out.
April 4, 2018
We were in Tahoe in September and I picked up the first book by Todd Borg. I wasn't expecting much but was totally surprised when I couldn't put the book down.
I asked our local library to carry a few of these books . They now have several books on their shelves.
After reading this last book its time for me to talk to them again about ordering more.
A lot of us have been to Reno or Tahoe which makes these books so appealing. Getting to know the main characters frombook to book is a joy.
These mysteries keep you guessing to the end.
I recommend this author for anyone who loves P.I./ mysteries!
Good job Mr Borg!
I asked our local library to carry a few of these books . They now have several books on their shelves.
After reading this last book its time for me to talk to them again about ordering more.
A lot of us have been to Reno or Tahoe which makes these books so appealing. Getting to know the main characters frombook to book is a joy.
These mysteries keep you guessing to the end.
I recommend this author for anyone who loves P.I./ mysteries!
Good job Mr Borg!
February 1, 2019
Owen is a private investigator based in Lake Tahoe. A quirky gentleman wants to hire him to find his girlfriend, but he doesn't know much about her. Owen does track down the woman, who has been murdered and, as it turns out, ran a scam charity where through some legal chicanery, she kept all of the donations. There are more murders before Owen and his trusty 170-pound harlequin Great Dane, Spot, are able to bring the case to a conclusion. Loved the setting, plot, and characters, and learned something about charity scams--this author is new to me but I will definitely be reading more of his novels.
January 19, 2018
No better mystery writer today
I originally picked up a Todd Borg novel because I live in Reno and wanted to check out this local author. What a wonderful surprise. I honestly believe there is no better mystery writer out there today. The plots are surprising. The characters become friends. I love the social commentary -especially in this book. Not to mention my love of dogs-with a special fondness for great danes. I anxiously await each new book! Do yourself a favor and start the series first-ever well worth your time. ☺
I originally picked up a Todd Borg novel because I live in Reno and wanted to check out this local author. What a wonderful surprise. I honestly believe there is no better mystery writer out there today. The plots are surprising. The characters become friends. I love the social commentary -especially in this book. Not to mention my love of dogs-with a special fondness for great danes. I anxiously await each new book! Do yourself a favor and start the series first-ever well worth your time. ☺
May 1, 2018
If I had to say anything at all bad about these books it would be that they are way too far between!
In this one Owen teams up with several of the different law enforcement personnel to see if they can figure out who is killing people involved with charities. It gets really indepth about the cheating that happens in not for profit charities. A lot of stuff that most people don't know. He is also trying to help Street deal with her father who seems to be coming after her for putting him in prison
In this one Owen teams up with several of the different law enforcement personnel to see if they can figure out who is killing people involved with charities. It gets really indepth about the cheating that happens in not for profit charities. A lot of stuff that most people don't know. He is also trying to help Street deal with her father who seems to be coming after her for putting him in prison
September 28, 2020
I'm sorry to give one of Borg's books a two-star rating since I really like Owen's milieu a lot, but this book wasn't interesting and seriously dragged in too many spots. It plods through unnecessary amounts of detail. To someone interested in self-defense, charity fraud, or astronomy/higher math, it might be fascinating, but to the casual reader who just wants to discover whodunnit, it was tedious. (And what was that digression into California history all about???)
I was eager to read the book because it had an interesting premise, but it just fizzled until the race to the finish.
I was eager to read the book because it had an interesting premise, but it just fizzled until the race to the finish.
July 31, 2017
In another adventure starring Spot and his man Owen, Todd goes after unscrupulous charities and what happens when people take matters into their own hands. We also have to deal with Street's continuing fear of her father. I just love his attention to the animals in his life. I was finishing this book on my way from the bus to the YMCA this morning and had to delay my workout so I could finish this. Marvelous book, marvelous ending.
August 12, 2017
Owen McKenna is at it again in gorgeous Lake Tahoe. Between Owen, Spot (dog), and Street (girlfriend) there's bodies hanging all over the place. In addition to discovering who did the dastardly deeds, we also find out about all those fake charities, a bit about taking California away from Mexico, and not everybody should get married. A little wordier than others and the action not quite as fast paced, but once hooked, as I am, I will keep reading as long as Borg keeps writing.
August 24, 2017
I have read every Todd Borg book and loved each and every one. This one I started reading and then was interrupted with "life". Today I did nothing but finish the book! What a roller coaster ride. Mr. Borg is great at building the story and the characters, most of whom you love. This was a "who done it" that was really a who done it???????? Be sure to check out his other books. Thank you Todd for another adventure that took me around the state of California as well as Nevada
September 6, 2017
Love This series
Everytime a new Owen McKenna book comes out I get all excited and must read it. The characters are well thought out, and realistic. But, what I love the most . . . is Spot. I can only visualize the size of this pup, and how Owen manages to take him everywhere. He's an integral part of the story and it wouldn't be the same without him. Great series. I recommend all the books.
Everytime a new Owen McKenna book comes out I get all excited and must read it. The characters are well thought out, and realistic. But, what I love the most . . . is Spot. I can only visualize the size of this pup, and how Owen manages to take him everywhere. He's an integral part of the story and it wouldn't be the same without him. Great series. I recommend all the books.
August 15, 2018
This is 1st book in the series. Purchased because my husband lived there while in high school, and I wanted to read about the area. This book did not disappoint in that area. I wished I was reading it while actually following his track in person. The plot was very good, and I liked reading about how some charities scam their donators and the system. All the more reason to thoroughly research charities before donating to them. All in all, a fun quick read that entertained as well as educated.
October 15, 2021
I enjoy reading books set in area I’ve been lucky to live in for a while and enjoy most of my life. I found this particular installment to be both entertaining and educational. I’ve long been suspicious of charities but this provided very useful information. I also appreciated the self defense lesson for Street. The story was good and all the regular characters are very likable. And, of course, there’s Spot and Blondie. A quick read because the suspense keeps you glued.
March 29, 2022
This was yet another entertaining Todd Borg book. And I learned all about charity scammers…and I learned that Ukiah backwards is Haiku! Very clever!
I recommend this book for those of you who like a good “who-done-it” as well as action and lots of dogs! I love the dogs having such a big part in the story,being a dog person myself.
I live in Sacramento, so the places mentioned in the book are familiar. That’s fun, too.
I look forward to reading more of these entertaining novels.
I recommend this book for those of you who like a good “who-done-it” as well as action and lots of dogs! I love the dogs having such a big part in the story,being a dog person myself.
I live in Sacramento, so the places mentioned in the book are familiar. That’s fun, too.
I look forward to reading more of these entertaining novels.
August 1, 2022
Somehow I got behind on this series, but then I realized that I get to binge read the next three! I love these books. Todd Borg is a hidden gem; someone that all mystery readers should know about. In this novel PI Owen McKenna must solve a series of deaths involving shady charity operators. It’s got everything - great characters, a Lake Tahoe location and a seriously adorable Great Dane named Spot. Read this series.
October 10, 2023
another winner with interesting subplots and information
I’m reading all the Owen McKenna books in order. I appreciate the delving into topics such as Charity Scammers and LaGrangian principles—and often read up on them during or after reading each book. Because I’ve read so many of the books, I can usually figure out the who dunnit part, and I know Owen and/or Street will get into and out of an impossible situation.
I’m reading all the Owen McKenna books in order. I appreciate the delving into topics such as Charity Scammers and LaGrangian principles—and often read up on them during or after reading each book. Because I’ve read so many of the books, I can usually figure out the who dunnit part, and I know Owen and/or Street will get into and out of an impossible situation.
August 4, 2025
Every book is a lesson in humanity.
Todd Borg is an excellent writer! I LOVE his stories. They are personable, with characters that the reader can relate to. (Sorry spoiler..) I can't figure out how Owen can save, walk, be, after being hung by hi feet. Street is a great character. This story had useful information on self defense; a class I have taught many times. AND charities and scams. Whoa! So informative. Great book!
Todd Borg is an excellent writer! I LOVE his stories. They are personable, with characters that the reader can relate to. (Sorry spoiler..) I can't figure out how Owen can save, walk, be, after being hung by hi feet. Street is a great character. This story had useful information on self defense; a class I have taught many times. AND charities and scams. Whoa! So informative. Great book!
September 6, 2017
Another hit!
I have read all of the Owen McKenna books, and am always wanting more. This one did not disappoint. I highly recommend each of these Tahoe Treasures. Every time I open another Todd Borg book I am excited and looking forward to the new adventure. Keep them coming. These belong in your physical or digital library.
I have read all of the Owen McKenna books, and am always wanting more. This one did not disappoint. I highly recommend each of these Tahoe Treasures. Every time I open another Todd Borg book I am excited and looking forward to the new adventure. Keep them coming. These belong in your physical or digital library.
January 6, 2018
Ended up being another good book by the author. I had difficulty with the beginning after the prologue and he spent too much time talking about self defense and the evil of charities. Then he rushes so much story information at the end. I’m familiar with the area so his stories always have a familiar comfort level for me. I found the meat of the story intriguing and it held my attention.
January 21, 2018
I like the way Spot is playing a more important role in this story than in earlier ones, although his nosework, and Owen's ability to read is his signals tends toward the implausible. The beginning is so well-done it's hard to put down. Toward the middle, the pacing becomes choppy. I even skipped several long sections of discussion about the mechanics of charity fraud. Still a good read.
October 2, 2020
Amazingly Good
Todd Borg is one of my favorite authors. His books are intelligent and terrifying. The plots are varied & different than anything else I've ever read. There are apparently endless ways to kill people in Lake Tahoe, most of which just involve nature! A supreme read!
Todd Borg is one of my favorite authors. His books are intelligent and terrifying. The plots are varied & different than anything else I've ever read. There are apparently endless ways to kill people in Lake Tahoe, most of which just involve nature! A supreme read!
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