Tiki Torches and Treasure

Gabe Maxfield Mysteries #2

by J.C. Long

Gabe Maxfield has reached a comfortable point in his life. His past troubles in Seattle are all but forgotten, he co-owns his own business, Paradise Investigations, with his best friend Grace Park, and he's happy in his relationship with sexy cop—his neighbor—Maka Kekoa. Maybe the best part is, no one’s pointed a gun at him in weeks.

Knowing his luck, that is bound to change. Lack of clients and money forces Paradise Investigations to take a job helping Edwin Biers search for a treasure he promises will be worth their while. Gabe has a knack for finding trouble, though, and find it, he does.

Genres: Crime, Mystery

211 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 6, 2017

Reviews

[C.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I liked this book more than the first in the series. I think it was because we're past all that get to know the character stuff and could jump right into the story.

Gabe has his issues but I see him as a lovable goof who can't help finding trouble, and Maka is a great foil for him since he's the upstanding cop who could fix everything but doesn't unless he's asked, which makes me love Maka even more. I almost wish we could get a book from his POV to see what he's thinking sometimes. Grace was true to form and played her part in getting Gabe into trouble once again but the new character Jin really caught my attention and part of me hopes he and Grace might get a spin off - even just a short? Maybe? Please?

This series sort of reminds me of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series without the love triangle. It's funny and fast paced and once I started reading I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next Gabe Maxfield book so I hope the author, JC Long, hurries up with it.

[Isabelle Adler · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I liked it even better than the first one.

I think it might have to do with the exciting plot. I mean, hunting for long lost treasure in Hawaii? Count me in!
I also loved the progression of Gabe and Maka's relationship. These two have great chemistry, and their bond is slowly growing stronger to be able to withstand obstacles (whether external or self-inflicted, as in Gabe's case).
Gabe and Grace's friendship is also a strong point. It's great to see such friendship represented in a romance novel!

I'll definitely be waiting eagerly for the next installment for another doze of mystery and shenanigans!

[Milly Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the Gabe Maxfield Mysteries series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone.
The story was a good blend of mystery and romance, I enjoyed the mystery plot and it had twists and turns that kept me guessing to the end. The romance storyline showed the continuing development of Maka and Gabe's relationship as they had already become a couple in book one. I was conflicted with how I saw Gabe, when he was on the case he was an oblivious, condescending arsehole, but when he was with Maka or with Grace away from work he was a sweet, genuine guy, however this may only be how I see him and others will probably have a different opinion. The secondary characters were all interesting and helped add depth to the story.
My favourite parts of the book were when Maka and Gabe were together and overall this was an enjoyable read.

[Samantha]

More cozy fun goodness. Is it a serious mystery/cop procedural? Absolutely not. It's pure fun and silliness at times. It hits the marks it intends to and does it well :)

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man does Gabe know how to get in trouble lol. This series is so good. Another great book. The mysteries keep getting better. I cannot put the book down once I start. Definitely a series to read over and over again.

[Joscelyn Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

After up ending his life and starting over in Hawaii found him literally stumbling over a dead body in book 1, Gabe had my full attention. Gabe, Grace (his kickass best friend) and Maka (his sexy cop) are back and better than ever. This book is filled with engaging characters and a storyline that will have you reading well into the wee hours. I can't wait to read the next book to find out what shenanigans Gabe and his crew get up to.

*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book *

[Dixiecowgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

i love a well written mystery with hot men and lots of action. Supporting characters were well developed and the mystery was solid. i enjoyed Gabe's self talk and his interactions with Grace were spot on for a best friendship. The pace was fast and the story pulled you along. There were lots of twists and turns throughout the story that kept you guessing as to who was the bad guy.

Gabe and Maka are really special together and their connection is solid. i loved the special moments that these guys created and shared.

I received an ARC at no cost from the author

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want some intrigue and mystery with a little suspense, you've come to the right book. It's all about the hunt for buried treasure and those looking for it and those against them. Who is on the good side and who isn't. You have to read this book to find out. I was so glad to receive an ARC to read and review. This book is light on sex and heavy on the plot of the story. I recommend it. It has a little bit of everything. Give it a try!

[tammy rufo · Rating 5 out of 5]

i don't think there is anything better than a good mystery/romance. i love this combo. the characters are amazing, i fell in love with Gabe and his besty Grace. I love all the twists and turns the story takes, and the relationship between Gabe and Maka. I hope there is more of this couple. Loved JC Long's story telling.

[JR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabe embarks on a treasure hunt that could yield artifacts from World War II.
Always fun to learn about Hawaii, since I know little about it. The characters are companionable, and a mystery is always a great way to spend an afternoon.