Steady Trouble

by Mike McCrary

When eighteen-year-old Teddy loses her parents to a tragedy, she’s left alone, and with no memory of the life she once had. Now older, wiser, and tougher than ever before, Teddy has managed to carve out a small place in Austin’s criminal underworld, but that world comes with its own brand of difficulties. Difficulties she’s learned to handle with some razor-sharp wit and the occasional baseball bat.

Desperate to buy the only link to her childhood – her parents’ old farm – Teddy jumps at an opportunity that could change her life. A stranger has just walked into her bar and presented her with a chance to get back a little of what she once had, but it may not be as simple as she thinks. This chance of a lifetime may take her down a long, winding road filled with more trouble than she might be able to handle.

From Mike McCrary, author Genuinely Dangerous and the Remo Cobb series comes the first book in a brand-new exciting series. Steady Trouble is filled with nonstop action, humor, a touch of heart, and fun character affectionately known as Steady Teddy.

Genres: Thriller, Fiction, Crime, Mystery, Amazon

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2017

About the author

Mike McCrary is the bestselling author of Someone Savage, Relentless, and the Remo Cobb series. He's been a waiter, a dishwasher, investment analyst, and an unpaid Hollywood intern. He's quit corporate America, come back, been fired, been promoted, been fired again. Currently, he writes stories about questionable people who make questionable decisions. Keep up with Mike at www.mikemccrary.com.

"Mike McCrary is definitely a writer to watch." - John Rector, Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author of The Ridge, Already Gone, and The Cold Kiss.

"It's almost inhuman how frequently and effectively this book ups the ante on the reader." - Rob Hart, author of The Warehouse

“… a Hollywood action film in print form.” – Austin Statesman

Reviews

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This was a free Kindle download. It was certainly exciting, and a quick read. It was marred by a couple of typos/copy-editing misses (typical of free Kindle books) but was well-written and had some dark humor that made me laugh out loud in places. I liked some of the author's descriptions ("eyes as big as pies", for example). The ending obviously sets up for book #2 in the series, though the author did wrap up the current story pretty well. The protagonist, Teddy, kinda reminded me of a female Jack Reacher, and in fact, so did the entire story and gun action. Teddy is a kick-ass, tough girl, but with a soft core. I could have done with a bit less cursing. Overall a pretty good read and held my interest.

[Kathi Defranc · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting adventure with great characters! I like the main character,Teddy, who basically is making her way in life however she can. She works as a bartender, a princess, and then runs games with women at the bar by working what they have to high rollers or college boys. Along comes some guy with an interesting ploy, and when the day comes people are seriously after her she turns to that man. The following ride finds her with people who are 'family' and others who want her killed. Written well, story kept me interested through the end, great scenes that have sarcasm and humor as the wild adventure ends.

[Coly Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was all set to award 4 or maybe 5 stars until the abrupt introduction of a cliffhanger on the last page.

[Michael Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Humour, Amnesia, Bad Times...but Comedy Erupts

Steady Teddy, an amnesiac survivor of the home invasion that killed her parents, is a mid-level professional criminal. She does a little pimping, runs a good card game and manages a bar. She is not unhappy with her life, but of course that won't last...

A very bizarre man comes into her life with a strange proposal that may enrich her...if it doesn't kill her... According to this bizarre "Gordon", her previous life (what little she can remember) was a lie...and if she just signs up for a deal in NYC, she could be set for life...details to be added later. Thus begins one of the darkest comedies (and one of the funniest) that I have ever read!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

[Travis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Finished this one a while ago, but forgot to add it to the reading list.
I liked it well enough, but the author doesn't pull punches, and while that's really cool when it comes to the action scenes, it can get a bit overwhelming when it comes to simple dialog or narration.
It's still a darned good book, but it certainly isn't one you'd want to recommend to your children that are under age. For what it's worth though, I do plan to follow this series, it looks to be a very interesting one, and I'm interested in seeing how things pan out in the next book, as it turned out to have a rather interesting ending, that just screams sequel, so I'm happy we'll be seeing more of Teddy and her adventures.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to tell you have I mixed feelings about this book. Yes, it is highly improbable (ok, unbelievable) but I don't read for realism and mind-numbing details. If I wanted that I'd be reading biographies and history books. I could have done without all the profanity, but it is rare these days that I can pick up a mystery or thriller that isn't full of it (profanity, that is). What sold me on this book regardless of all the unrealistic hype (Teddy's never used a gun but never misses even though the professionals always do; the police never show up for one of the shoot-outs; Teddy drives like a NASCAR racer on crack, etc) is the sarcasm. I'm sorry, but I'm a sucker for sarcastic humor; it gets me every time. And several times during this roller coaster ride I found myself laughing to the point of tears, so I had to keep going to find the next gem hidden in this pile of mishmash. So, Mike McCrary, if you are reading this, please get off Amazon and get back to work. We still have stuff to unpack and I want to know what you come up with next. I received a free copy from the author at my request and this is my honest review.

[Melanie Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a brilliant book. The action kicks off in chapter 1 and doesn't end until the last word - actually, the action carries on way past the last word. Teddy is a kick-ass woman, and I'm totally in love with her, she's divine. One of the best female characters I've read about in many a long time. With Skinny Drake by her side, she's going to conquer the world. The McClusky family are suitably repugnant and easy to loathe. But it isn't just because her enemies are so revolting that you cheer for Steady Teddy. She may have her issues but she's a genuinely good person, and she's so well drawn that I truly believe that I could go and meet her in her bar in Austin, Texas. I loved Remo and Mr McCrary has done it again. Excellently narrated by Mandy Kaplan, I can't wait to read more about Steady Teddy. BTW, the ending, don't worry, no spoilers, but the ending is very much, WTF??? Kudos Mr McCrary - you've got a 5 star, (should be 6), hit on your hands!

[David Berkowitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steady Trouble is in the tradition of "hard-boiled" storytelling. And at the same time, it somehow has an air of lightness about it that makes it a joy to read. McCrary's choices of language, allusion and metaphor make this a most entertaining read.

Teddy, a thirty-ish, hard working bartender with no memory of her childhood, finds herself named as one of the beneficiaries of a huge trust. The problem is that all the other beneficiaries want her dead and are trying hard to make that happen. Teddy is torn between running and fighting. Guess which she chooses?

Teddy is a richly drawn character. The other two main characters are developed, but not as thoroughly. That's understandable as Teddy herself narrates the story. As the first book in a series there's plenty of time to get more fully acquainted with them.

Strongly recommended to people who like action stories with strong female leads.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the new Steady Teddy series by Mike McCrary and starts the series off on a high note. This book has it all suspense, action, humor, surprises, danger and is heartwarming at the same time. Teddy is left an orphan with no memory at eighteen and resorts to a life as a bar tender and a bit part in the criminal underworld of Austin, Tx. When a man appears who offers to help her get her childhood home back her life takes on a life of it's own. People are out to kill her and some are family. Wow, no shortage of drama, or sarcasm in this book. A well written page turner that will capture your attention at the beginning and keep it until the end. I received an advance copy and voluntarily chose to review this book. Highly recommend.

[Ron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent 5 STAR novel. This book is full of twists and turns ... and surprises ... it will keep you intrigued and thrilled until the end. The story line is excellent and Steady Eddy ... wow ... just great. Highly recommended to all Crime, Thriller, & Noir readers - you will not be disappointed.

[Michael Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great character

Good story without unnecessary narrative. A good central character with a raft of faults and blemishes. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

[Alexei · Rating 4 out of 5]

He has a really good style

I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Very violent, twisted and gory but has a fantastic style with some truly great lines. Storyline is unusual perhaps not quite plausible but nevertheless wicked read.

[Jeanne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Deception

This isn't really a story but rather one long, very long, series of gun battles and when you get to the end there is no ending.

[Emy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read

As an Austinite, I may be biased, but this “local” bad ass heroine is one of my favorite characters. The easy banter, realistic setting (keep Austin weird) and self deprivation of the main character are amazing. I couldn’t wait to finish & am sad that I did. Keep em coming!!!

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great suspense, some comedy - loved this book. I would have given it 5 stars if it had addressed the fact that dealing with cops would be a bigger factor.

[Tony Sommer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good story

I really enjoyed this book. The stuff that has happened and is happening to the girl is tragic yet I believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel for her.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good read.

A good story. The new character is likable and deadly of course. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to the next.

[Texas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Relentless - I was clueless about the storyline, so I really didn't want to read Relentless after I read the first couple of chapters. I don't care about LA, designer clothes and fancy cars; you got em, great but so what. But I've read a few books by Mr. McCrary and love his work, so I hung in there. Glad I did because the pace picked up, the plot turned intriguing and suspenseful, and the characters ranged the gamut from weak to pure evil, with plenty of manipulation from several directions. I figured out a few things, except one thing: what was actually wanted in the end by the bad guy. I want to say more, but I don't do spoilers; this is a review, not a book report. Another well written, well thought out story. 5*

Getting Ugly - Action packed, fast paced suspense with interesting characters. The plot kept me immersed in the story. Ugly is a fun, good character. Well written, but vulgar language happy.

Steady Trouble #1 - Action packed, fast paced with an interesting plot and characters. Of the three books, I've read, this is the best, with Getting Ugly second (fun, good character). Cowtown, yes; A-Town?, must be near NYC or Chi-Town. Standalone, but there's definitely more in the future. Well written with believable characters and plot. Do want to see more of Teddy. This book is different from the Remo series, but just as enjoyable.

Steady Madness #2 – Picks up where Steady Teddy ended. Another well written, action-packed, suspense filled book. The characters from Steady Teddy #1 have growth and you either love em or hate em. You’re definitely rooting for the good guys even when they’re bad. Even the new additions are interesting. There’s a surprise at the end of the story that’s heartwarming, actually a couple of em. I had to laugh when I saw BAD WORDS INC. on the title page, since Mr. McCrary is always reviewed for his vulgar language. He has a sense of humor as you can see in his books. I volunteered to review his books many books ago. He is one of my favorite new authors.

Remo Went Rogue #1 - Action packed, fast paced suspense with a cast of characters typical of this type of novel. Cut n Shoot ain't that little any more. Well written, but too much vulgar language, although that's typical for these characters. If you like Elmore, you'll like this book.

Remo Went Down #2 - Great! Another action packed, fast paced thriller full of suspense, characters that keep getting better and a twisting plot. Better than Rogue, still with the vulgar and the violence works. I couldn't put the book down, it wouldn't let me until I finished. Do read Rogue first, and then hang on for the ride with Down.

Remo Went Wild #3 - I couldn't stop belly laughing or put the book down. The descriptions are just poetry, vivid. Remo 3 is the best of the lot, so far. Well written, intense, suspense filled, with humor over the top. Mr. McCrary has a good thing going here with Remo. It seems he's cut the vulgar language some, but what's there, just belongs - these are real thugs who haven't been to church in awhile, if ever. LOL. (Since in the Amazon reviewing community, non Christians and real people curse.)

The characters are getting stronger with each book and the plot still remains twisting and engaging. Any more folks, and we're talking spoilers. I'll let you discover the adventure on your own. With over 50K books in my possession, not counting the local library, I don't reread many books. When Remo Went Berserk comes out, I'll be rereading the first three just to get into the mood to savor Berserk. McCrary goes on my bookshelf with Ludlum, my favorite author.

Remo Went Off #4 - Wow, Remo's story comes to a close - maybe? This book is just as action packed, fast paced and intriguing as the previous volumes. Well written plot; realistic characters; realistic and appropriate dialog; just the items that make a good story.

You must read these books in order to get the most out of this series. But if you can't, don't let it stop you from reading this or any other book. Once you get started, you'll have a difficult time putting these books down. Some folks will get offended by the vulgar language, which ranges in frequency usage thorough out the books, but the characters are criminals and this is their norm. I contacted the author to review his books.

[Rory Costello · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new and very different character for Mike McCrary, whose Remo Cobb series I have enjoyed a good deal. This protagonist is a young woman, and the concept of her faulty memory (and how it got that way) works well. McCrary writes outstanding fight scenes that often escalate into full-on battles. He's also got a different spin with his humor, and the surprising dimension of this story is the family aspect, which acts as a counterpoint to the violence and is rather touching.

[Dana Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Talk about a wild ride from start to finish. A fast and entertaining read. Sure, the plot is a bit on the ridiculous side, but it's still a lot of fun. Teddy is a riot, and pretty badass. I could see this easily being turned into an action movie (albeit a cheesy, action movie). It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, which was a bit disappointing - I guess I'll just have to get the next book.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I love it when I’m pleasantly surprised by a BookBub freebie. The action was non stop, it was a fast paced, easy read and I loved the “Kill Bill” style violence and tough main character. It wasn’t a 5 star because there are still a few slight editing errors but it held my interest enough that I would want to read the next book in the series!!

[Roberta Breyne · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unbelievable plot and characters. A lot of unprovoked violence. Quit and gave up at chapter 39.

Unbelievable plot and characters. Too much unprovoked violence. Just plain stupid. Couldn't read past chapter 39 and that was a push.

[Jyll Hoyrup · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Twists and Turns

I almost stopped reading at 20% due to the swearing. It was an interesting plot and while I'm not sure how convincing the main character, Teddy, was, it was a page turner!!

[Thomas Mihalchick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great fun, lots of shoot 'em up

This would make a great Quentin Torrentino film. Its great fun if you like action stories. I really liked the Steady Teddy character. No superhero, just smart. This was a good break from my usual reading habit.

[Virginia · Rating 4 out of 5]

No ending

Another book with a cliff hanger. There is also great amounts of violence. It was hard to put down. But it would have gotten five stars without the cliff hanger.

[Barbara Dunbar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Steady trouble

So I met Teddy and I couldn't help but like her. Then stuff happened such as tons of gun play and her life turning on it's head.

[Jim Greene · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really 3 1/2 stars. Good main character. Lots of action. May be too violent for some.

[Coco.V]

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