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Larry Macklin Mysteries #9
July's Trials
The Florida summer turns even hotter for criminal investigator Larry Macklin when he narrowly escapes an explosion that takes the life of a colleague. The assumed target of the bomb is Larry’s cross-dressing confidential informant and the key witness in a major drug trial, Eddie Thompson, who’s now on the run.
As federal agents descend on Adams County, Larry is pushed aside in the investigation over concerns regarding his status as a witness… and a possible suspect. At loose ends and with nothing to do but look for Eddie, Larry is consumed with survivor’s guilt and other emotional fall-out from the explosion that threatens to destroy the relationships he holds most dear.
Several breaks in the case finally bring Larry back into the investigation and lead to the person responsible for the bomb. But everything still doesn’t add up and Larry is convinced that the real killer is still out there. Can Larry and his partners solve the case before someone else loses their life?
As federal agents descend on Adams County, Larry is pushed aside in the investigation over concerns regarding his status as a witness… and a possible suspect. At loose ends and with nothing to do but look for Eddie, Larry is consumed with survivor’s guilt and other emotional fall-out from the explosion that threatens to destroy the relationships he holds most dear.
Several breaks in the case finally bring Larry back into the investigation and lead to the person responsible for the bomb. But everything still doesn’t add up and Larry is convinced that the real killer is still out there. Can Larry and his partners solve the case before someone else loses their life?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2018
About the author
A.E. Howe
40 books162 followersA. E. Howe lives and writes on a farm in the wilds of north Florida with his wife, horses and more cats than he can count. He received a degree in English Education from the University of Georgia and is a produced screenwriter and playwright. His first published book was Broken State; the Larry Macklin Mysteries is his first series and he has plans for more. Howe is also the co-host of the "Guns of Hollywood" podcast, part of the Firearms Radio Network. When not writing or podcasting, Howe enjoys riding, competitive shooting and working on the farm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 24, 2018
Inspector Macklin and a colleague is escorting a state's witness to a safe house. A minor glitch and the car his colleague is sitting in blows to smithereens. Larry and the witness escape serious injury, but Larry's colleague is dead. The intended target, they think, was actually the state's witness who is set to testify against a major crime lord.
Macklin is not very happy when he is excluded from the task force because he, himself, was a witness to the explosion.... and possibly a suspect. To make matters worse, when he was laying on the concrete, the state witness took off and no one knows where he is.
Locating the state's witness becomes his job. But dealing with survivor's guilt and depression is making everything harder ... especially his relationship with the woman he loves.
When the bomb maker is located and eventually killed, Larry still has questions. Was the bomb maker working on his own, or did someone hire him. And who exactly was the target? Is this case over ... or is there still a killer out there?
Lots of twists and turns and fast-paced action kept me rapidly turning pages to see what was going to happen next. I've been fortunate enough to read this series from the very beginning. I highly recommend reading this series in order.
The main character, Macklin, is unique. He started out as a young man who didn't know what he wanted out of life. He had a contentious relationship with his father .. the sheriff who employs him. He has grown by leaps and bounds into the man he is now. I really enjoy how all the fixed characters interact with each other ... even down to Mauser... the Great Dane who adds so much humor to their lives.
Many thanks to the author who has written such a terrific crime series. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 26, 2018
Wonderfully entertaining!
I just can't say enough about how much I've enjoyed this series. I'm highly invested in the lives of deputy Larry Macklin, his father, the chief, his girlfriend, Cara, and of course, Mauser, a huge brute of a dog who takes up way too much space and drools all over everything. Another thing I like about these books is that they are simple. And I don't mean that in a bad way or to imply that they aren't as good as others I've read. There are no complicated plot twists. You don't have to worry about missing something along the way. Yet every time another one comes out I can't wait to dig in and find out what Larry's up to next. A few hours later I sit back with a smile on my face for a job well done.
In this one, Larry and DEA agent, Matt Greene, a former colleague of Larry's, are in charge of protecting Larry's informant, Eddie, as he testifies against his own family members on trial. When Eddie accidentally leaves his phone in the courthouse restroom, Larry escorts him back to get it, leaving Matt to get the car. However, before Larry and Eddie get back inside, the car explodes with Matt in it. When Larry rushes over to try and save Matt, obviously an impossible task, but Larry is in shock and his reactions automatic, Eddie disappears. All that remains is the bullet proof vest he was wearing.
Now Larry has two assignments. Find Eddie and find whoever was responsible for killing Matt. Unfortunately, he's actually on the suspect list at first and ordered to stay away from the case. Something he has no intention of doing. For one thing, only he knows Eddie well enough to know where he might go to hide out. And for another thing, there is no one Eddie trusts as much as he trusts Larry.
While Larry gets caught up in the investigation, Cara is always there to welcome him home at night. Their relationship is progressing nicely in spite of Larry's reluctance to propose. When Cara's birthday comes up he's determined to do something special for her even though the case takes precedence.
And then their Mauser. This series wouldn't be the same without him. Even though the dog belongs to his dad, Larry is often called upon to babysit, and has grown quite attached to the animal himself. Its hilarious to see some of the places Mauser ends up.
While these stories can be read as standalones, you might want to start at book one and work your way through. You won't be disappointed if you do.
I just can't say enough about how much I've enjoyed this series. I'm highly invested in the lives of deputy Larry Macklin, his father, the chief, his girlfriend, Cara, and of course, Mauser, a huge brute of a dog who takes up way too much space and drools all over everything. Another thing I like about these books is that they are simple. And I don't mean that in a bad way or to imply that they aren't as good as others I've read. There are no complicated plot twists. You don't have to worry about missing something along the way. Yet every time another one comes out I can't wait to dig in and find out what Larry's up to next. A few hours later I sit back with a smile on my face for a job well done.
In this one, Larry and DEA agent, Matt Greene, a former colleague of Larry's, are in charge of protecting Larry's informant, Eddie, as he testifies against his own family members on trial. When Eddie accidentally leaves his phone in the courthouse restroom, Larry escorts him back to get it, leaving Matt to get the car. However, before Larry and Eddie get back inside, the car explodes with Matt in it. When Larry rushes over to try and save Matt, obviously an impossible task, but Larry is in shock and his reactions automatic, Eddie disappears. All that remains is the bullet proof vest he was wearing.
Now Larry has two assignments. Find Eddie and find whoever was responsible for killing Matt. Unfortunately, he's actually on the suspect list at first and ordered to stay away from the case. Something he has no intention of doing. For one thing, only he knows Eddie well enough to know where he might go to hide out. And for another thing, there is no one Eddie trusts as much as he trusts Larry.
While Larry gets caught up in the investigation, Cara is always there to welcome him home at night. Their relationship is progressing nicely in spite of Larry's reluctance to propose. When Cara's birthday comes up he's determined to do something special for her even though the case takes precedence.
And then their Mauser. This series wouldn't be the same without him. Even though the dog belongs to his dad, Larry is often called upon to babysit, and has grown quite attached to the animal himself. Its hilarious to see some of the places Mauser ends up.
While these stories can be read as standalones, you might want to start at book one and work your way through. You won't be disappointed if you do.
December 15, 2018
It happened again, but worry not this is the last time I'll need one of this series for a book challenge...this year anyway! Now this one was gripping, more so than the last as Larry and DEA agent Matt are tasked with escorting Eddie (my favourite CI) to and from his depositions against his father and grandfather (the massive crime lords that they are), then BOOM! Their car explodes, killing one and injuring others and so the hunt is on for the culprit. There may be a few obvious ones but all is not what it seems as things feel a little hinky to everyone involved. Out of all the ones I've read of this series so far, I think this is my favourite. Some of the twists were superbly done, letting you see them coming but not in quite the way you think until the last minute, right before it smacks you full in the face.
March 13, 2026
July’s Trials – A Larry Macklin Mystery Book 9 – Published 2018 - ***1/2 – Larry Macklin is an investigator in Florida. The book begins with Larry barely escaping a car bomb that kills an associate. Larry is in charge of security for a key witness in a federal case against the Thompson crime family. The witness is lost in the confusion of the bombing, and it is Macklin’s job to track the witness down and bring him back in. Several other sub plots weave in and out of the action providing multiple interest lines and characters. Good twists and rabbit holes bring the reader to an interesting conclusion. I did skim some as a few areas of background story and viewpoint angst were becoming boring. I may read another by Howe.
August 13, 2026
2023 has turned out to be a lot. In times of stress I read a lot BUT I don't retain a lot...it has been that kind of a year to put it mildly.
I do remember a bit of this plot but as it involves the unexpected murder of a co-worker I don't want to spoil too much. Another good round with Larry and the gang. I do count myself in the group of readers and characters that believe that Larry is using Eddie a bit too much. Eddie has fared well thus far and is in early recovery--I want him to stay that way.
I do remember a bit of this plot but as it involves the unexpected murder of a co-worker I don't want to spoil too much. Another good round with Larry and the gang. I do count myself in the group of readers and characters that believe that Larry is using Eddie a bit too much. Eddie has fared well thus far and is in early recovery--I want him to stay that way.
March 3, 2018
Fascinating times
Excellent series, each book has been well crafted, intricate, and believable. Larry and his dad, Car and all the inhabitants of the county, make these books a pleasure to read. Do yourself a favor and start from the beginning of the series (which is what I love about kindle unlimited, you can find the whole series) and read them all. I will be on the look out for the next book.
Excellent series, each book has been well crafted, intricate, and believable. Larry and his dad, Car and all the inhabitants of the county, make these books a pleasure to read. Do yourself a favor and start from the beginning of the series (which is what I love about kindle unlimited, you can find the whole series) and read them all. I will be on the look out for the next book.
February 15, 2019
An AzeH. Mystery Novel (LMMB - 9)/ Murder by Bomb
AEH. had. penned the ninth novel (LMMB - 9) which contains the attempted death of a confidential informant by bomb. The CI. survives and LM. puts him in hiding with an apparent mad bomber on his tail. The FBI. Moved in and placed LM. on. the back burner until LM. Develops and informs them of an alternate subject. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
AEH. had. penned the ninth novel (LMMB - 9) which contains the attempted death of a confidential informant by bomb. The CI. survives and LM. puts him in hiding with an apparent mad bomber on his tail. The FBI. Moved in and placed LM. on. the back burner until LM. Develops and informs them of an alternate subject. This is an excellent read for the genre.....DEHS
February 11, 2021
This is the 9th book I've read in the Larry Macklin series by author A.E Howe and it didn't disappoint. I enjoy the characters that he has created and how their personal lives have evolved while solving the latest murder mystery. It's a fun and easy read. You don't have to read the previous books but if you want to have a deeper understanding of the characters I'd recommend it. I'm behind in the series but will be reading #10.
March 20, 2018
Larry Macklin series
This is a great series to read. Like that you can follow the characters through each book but they don't get "old" or are unrealistic. I hope he has another series once this 12 set are done. Very engaging reads and not too much romance, just enough to give you a taste but more of the mystery.
This is a great series to read. Like that you can follow the characters through each book but they don't get "old" or are unrealistic. I hope he has another series once this 12 set are done. Very engaging reads and not too much romance, just enough to give you a taste but more of the mystery.
July 15, 2018
Another Great Book By Mr Howe
I have read 9 out of the 10 books and plan on reading Book 10. This book is like the last 8, a good story with a good plot and ending. The characters that are in this series and their relationships are very realistic and add to the story especially Mauser.
I have read 9 out of the 10 books and plan on reading Book 10. This book is like the last 8, a good story with a good plot and ending. The characters that are in this series and their relationships are very realistic and add to the story especially Mauser.
September 9, 2020
Another day, another Larry Macklin book
Nothing really bad, good to see another story where loved ones aren’t in peril at the end, but maybe that was done upfront. Regardless another story for Larry, dad, Mauser, Darlene, Clara, Eddie I may be missing someone other than my favorite guy Pete. For some reason he’s the one character I really like.
Spoiler is Larry gets his perp.
Nothing really bad, good to see another story where loved ones aren’t in peril at the end, but maybe that was done upfront. Regardless another story for Larry, dad, Mauser, Darlene, Clara, Eddie I may be missing someone other than my favorite guy Pete. For some reason he’s the one character I really like.
Spoiler is Larry gets his perp.
September 27, 2021
November thru July has made my life bearable
With many medical issues which have kept me homebound I have been reading. This series has held my interest. The characters are comfortable to know. There is comic relief provided by Mauser. I am so glad to be enjoying this series and so glad I have more to read.
With many medical issues which have kept me homebound I have been reading. This series has held my interest. The characters are comfortable to know. There is comic relief provided by Mauser. I am so glad to be enjoying this series and so glad I have more to read.
January 24, 2018
Fun, explosive read from one of my favorite authors.
Another entertaining fast-paced adventure from A.E. Howe. When this series comes to an end I will truly miss his characters and their escapades. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end.
Another entertaining fast-paced adventure from A.E. Howe. When this series comes to an end I will truly miss his characters and their escapades. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end.
March 9, 2018
awesome. as usual.
I always enjoy the Larry Macklin adventures. I think I have read all off the them now. I especially enjoy the antics of Mouser. only a dog lover like myself would put up with the giant dog& his antics.
I always enjoy the Larry Macklin adventures. I think I have read all off the them now. I especially enjoy the antics of Mouser. only a dog lover like myself would put up with the giant dog& his antics.
August 11, 2018
July's Trials one of the better suspense books I
I started this book with five stars because the author was proficient in the writing of it. Everything you want in a good mystery, suspense book.
I started this book with five stars because the author was proficient in the writing of it. Everything you want in a good mystery, suspense book.
August 31, 2020
Great Story
Excellent “whodunnit”. Since I write mysteries and was a law enforcement officer myself, I have a pretty critical nature on cop stories. Mr. Howe passes the test with high honors!
Excellent “whodunnit”. Since I write mysteries and was a law enforcement officer myself, I have a pretty critical nature on cop stories. Mr. Howe passes the test with high honors!
April 16, 2021
For once he wasn't injured!!
Thought-provoking Introspection seem to be the theme of this book, among all characters.With the violence in the last several episodes, I think This was truly needed. It really set a focus on all the interpersonal relationships.
Thought-provoking Introspection seem to be the theme of this book, among all characters.With the violence in the last several episodes, I think This was truly needed. It really set a focus on all the interpersonal relationships.
July 8, 2023
I have enjoyed all the books so far and like the characters, looking for more soon from this author!q
The characters are real and believable! Thanks , delightful! More more please ! The finding of errors and attempts to correctly fix old errors is charming !
The characters are real and believable! Thanks , delightful! More more please ! The finding of errors and attempts to correctly fix old errors is charming !
March 20, 2024
Webs of deceit
What a tangled web he wove here! Deception and perception were the name of the game. Just when you thought the guilty one was gone, the hidden door reveals who's really who! Nicely written
What a tangled web he wove here! Deception and perception were the name of the game. Just when you thought the guilty one was gone, the hidden door reveals who's really who! Nicely written
January 23, 2018
Moving action
Best book of the series so far. Little Larry is maturing nicely as a detective and the story is exciting but easy on the nerves. Looking forward to more.
Best book of the series so far. Little Larry is maturing nicely as a detective and the story is exciting but easy on the nerves. Looking forward to more.
March 16, 2018
A close call, a dead friend and across dresser.
A very good story with an assortment of characters. One of those stories that won't l you go. Read it and you'll enjoy it.
A very good story with an assortment of characters. One of those stories that won't l you go. Read it and you'll enjoy it.
March 26, 2018
I have read all the books in this series and thoroughly enjoyed each one. I feel like I know the characters. These books are very comfortable, engaging reads. Can’t wait for the next one!!
April 14, 2018
Good series
I like the characters, I like the stories. What more can I say. I've read and enjoyed all of them.
I like the characters, I like the stories. What more can I say. I've read and enjoyed all of them.
May 26, 2018
Good
Enjoyed front to back. Intriguing and interesting storyline. Well written and coherent. Starting on last one in series. Looking forward to it
Enjoyed front to back. Intriguing and interesting storyline. Well written and coherent. Starting on last one in series. Looking forward to it
August 17, 2018
The best yet
Another very interesting book in this series. I like the time that has been spent developing the character's, and their relationships. On to the next in the series
Another very interesting book in this series. I like the time that has been spent developing the character's, and their relationships. On to the next in the series
August 24, 2018
Well written series.
March 14, 2019
Another great read
Great book that keeps your attention. Love the series. Would recommend this book to anyone wanting a book for a lazy day.
Great book that keeps your attention. Love the series. Would recommend this book to anyone wanting a book for a lazy day.
August 22, 2019
Can’t wait to see or shall I saw “read” about what will happen in August. July was very exciting!
October 4, 2019
great story, really enjoying this series, can't wait to read the next one...
February 4, 2020
Another good A.E. Howe Mystery. Great Characters and plot
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews