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Virgil Cain Mysteries #1
Red Means Run
Mickey Dupree is one of the most successful criminal attorneys in upstate New York, having never lost a capital murder case.
That is the upside of being Mickey. The Mickey has a lot of enemies, and one of them drives the shaft of a golf club through his heart, leaving him dead in a sand trap at his exclusive country club...
Just a few weeks earlier, the slippery lawyer earned an acquittal for Alan Comstock, the man accused of murdering Virgil Cain's wife. Comstock, a legendary record producer, gun nut, and certifiable lunatic, has returned to his estate, where he lives with his long-suffering wife. And after Virgil was overheard telling a crowded bar that 'somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off', the cops, led by dim-witted detective Joe Brady, quickly focus their attention on Virgil as the prime suspect.
It appears to Virgil that the fix is in when Brady immediately throws him into jail with no questions asked. So Virgil escapes from custody, determined to set things right and find Mickey's killer himself.
Everybody is convinced that Virgil is the culprit. His only ally is the smart and sexy Claire Marchand, a detective who is at least willing to consider that Virgil is telling the truth. Now it is up to Virgil to convince everyone of his innocence - by finding the killer, before the killer finds him...
'Brad Smith is a writer with lots of skill, lots of heart, lots of brains.' - Richard Russo
'Brad Smith has got the goods - he's funny, poignant, evocative, and he tells a blistering tale' - Dennis Lehane
'Smith has marvellous control of his material, effortlessly mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with streaks of country noir that call to mind Daniel Woodrell' - Booklist
Brad Smith was born and raised in southern Ontario. He has worked as a farmer, signalman, insulator, truck driver, bartender, schoolteacher, maintenance mechanic, roofer, and carpenter. He lives in a eighty-year-old farmhouse near the north shore of Lake Erie. His novel, One-Eyed Jacks was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize.
That is the upside of being Mickey. The Mickey has a lot of enemies, and one of them drives the shaft of a golf club through his heart, leaving him dead in a sand trap at his exclusive country club...
Just a few weeks earlier, the slippery lawyer earned an acquittal for Alan Comstock, the man accused of murdering Virgil Cain's wife. Comstock, a legendary record producer, gun nut, and certifiable lunatic, has returned to his estate, where he lives with his long-suffering wife. And after Virgil was overheard telling a crowded bar that 'somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off', the cops, led by dim-witted detective Joe Brady, quickly focus their attention on Virgil as the prime suspect.
It appears to Virgil that the fix is in when Brady immediately throws him into jail with no questions asked. So Virgil escapes from custody, determined to set things right and find Mickey's killer himself.
Everybody is convinced that Virgil is the culprit. His only ally is the smart and sexy Claire Marchand, a detective who is at least willing to consider that Virgil is telling the truth. Now it is up to Virgil to convince everyone of his innocence - by finding the killer, before the killer finds him...
'Brad Smith is a writer with lots of skill, lots of heart, lots of brains.' - Richard Russo
'Brad Smith has got the goods - he's funny, poignant, evocative, and he tells a blistering tale' - Dennis Lehane
'Smith has marvellous control of his material, effortlessly mixing laugh-out-loud comedy with streaks of country noir that call to mind Daniel Woodrell' - Booklist
Brad Smith was born and raised in southern Ontario. He has worked as a farmer, signalman, insulator, truck driver, bartender, schoolteacher, maintenance mechanic, roofer, and carpenter. He lives in a eighty-year-old farmhouse near the north shore of Lake Erie. His novel, One-Eyed Jacks was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2012
776 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Brad Smith
131 books101 followersBrad Smith was born and raised in southern Ontario. He has worked as a farmer, signalman, insulator, truck driver, bartender, schoolteacher, maintenance mechanic, roofer, and carpenter. He lives in a eighty-year-old farmhouse near the north shore of Lake Erie. His novel, "One-Eyed Jacks" was nominated for the Dashiell Hammett Prize.
Some of his books that have been published include One-Eyed Jacks (2000), All Hat (2003), Busted Flush (2005), Big Man Coming Down The Road (2007), Red Means Run (January 2012) and Crow's Landing (August 2012).
Follow Brad on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/uQYcIw.
Some of his books that have been published include One-Eyed Jacks (2000), All Hat (2003), Busted Flush (2005), Big Man Coming Down The Road (2007), Red Means Run (January 2012) and Crow's Landing (August 2012).
Follow Brad on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/uQYcIw.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
July 14, 2020
Enjoyed the murder mystery.
Right from the chapter that Virgil was arrested for the murder of the criminal advocate, the story moved at a very fast pace. Better still, Virgil teaming up with his friends to find the real culprit is narrated enjoyably well.
Virgil's character in particular is very well etched and one that made me want to root for him.
Enjoyable read.
Right from the chapter that Virgil was arrested for the murder of the criminal advocate, the story moved at a very fast pace. Better still, Virgil teaming up with his friends to find the real culprit is narrated enjoyably well.
Virgil's character in particular is very well etched and one that made me want to root for him.
Enjoyable read.
March 31, 2020
A first book by this author Brad Smith, and a very interesting read, intelligent well developed characters, also not quite what I expected.
Virgil Cain is a very different character to any kind I have read, which is good I guess?
A Great character in Claire Marchand, a sexy but intelligent Police detective.
Great hints of humour, especially dry humour, well paced, clever, and my guess was nearly right ?
Not my usual action packed thriller, more of a mystery thriller with action.
Mickey Dupree is one of the most successful criminal attorneys in upstate New York, having never lost a capital murder case.
That is the upside of being Mickey. The downside: Mickey has a lot of enemies, and one of them drives the shaft of a golf club through his heart, leaving him dead in a sand trap at his exclusive country club...
Just a few weeks earlier, the slippery lawyer earned an acquittal for Alan Comstock, the man accused of murdering Virgil Cain's wife. Comstock, a legendary record producer, gun nut, and certifiable lunatic, has returned to his estate, where he lives with his long-suffering wife. And after Virgil was overheard telling a crowded bar that 'somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off', the cops, led by dim-witted detective Joe Brady, quickly focus their attention on Virgil as the prime suspect.
It appears to Virgil that the fix is in when Brady immediately throws him into jail with no questions asked. So Virgil escapes from custody, determined to set things right and find Mickey's killer himself.
Everybody is convinced that Virgil is the culprit. His only ally is the smart and sexy Claire Marchand, a detective who is at least willing to consider that Virgil is telling the truth. Now it is up to Virgil to convince everyone of his innocence - by finding the killer, before the killer finds him...
Good enough for me to buy book 2 and 3...
Four stars
Virgil Cain is a very different character to any kind I have read, which is good I guess?
A Great character in Claire Marchand, a sexy but intelligent Police detective.
Great hints of humour, especially dry humour, well paced, clever, and my guess was nearly right ?
Not my usual action packed thriller, more of a mystery thriller with action.
Mickey Dupree is one of the most successful criminal attorneys in upstate New York, having never lost a capital murder case.
That is the upside of being Mickey. The downside: Mickey has a lot of enemies, and one of them drives the shaft of a golf club through his heart, leaving him dead in a sand trap at his exclusive country club...
Just a few weeks earlier, the slippery lawyer earned an acquittal for Alan Comstock, the man accused of murdering Virgil Cain's wife. Comstock, a legendary record producer, gun nut, and certifiable lunatic, has returned to his estate, where he lives with his long-suffering wife. And after Virgil was overheard telling a crowded bar that 'somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off', the cops, led by dim-witted detective Joe Brady, quickly focus their attention on Virgil as the prime suspect.
It appears to Virgil that the fix is in when Brady immediately throws him into jail with no questions asked. So Virgil escapes from custody, determined to set things right and find Mickey's killer himself.
Everybody is convinced that Virgil is the culprit. His only ally is the smart and sexy Claire Marchand, a detective who is at least willing to consider that Virgil is telling the truth. Now it is up to Virgil to convince everyone of his innocence - by finding the killer, before the killer finds him...
Good enough for me to buy book 2 and 3...
Four stars
November 12, 2012
This book was a wonderfully surprising change for me - it wasn't what I was expecting it to be ........ at all.
First off, I was expecting this crazy chase-you-down who dunnit, with the hero dodging bullets and emerging victorious with the culprit in hand and a smug look of 'of course, I knew it all along' on his face. But, and let me say this, - thankfully - it wasn't like that at all. It was wondrously refreshingly different.
Secondly, it had a nice touch of humor written into it. Not that goofy humor that you find with those swash-buckling detective stories have. This is done with some subtly but with a great sarcastic edge. I do like that. It's not easy to pull off without the main character becoming almost more of a comic than someone who's in something deeper than they planned to be.
And finally, it was a story that did keep me guessing. Other than knowing that Virgil Cain didn't do it, you have a pretty hard time figuring it out until close to the end. That is a feat worth praising these days! Actually, since the main character is pretty much not even telling this story, it points you at everyone else to consider - and the list is endless.
So it's a read that's worth it. Fast paced, interesting and humorous, it will keep you guessing.
First off, I was expecting this crazy chase-you-down who dunnit, with the hero dodging bullets and emerging victorious with the culprit in hand and a smug look of 'of course, I knew it all along' on his face. But, and let me say this, - thankfully - it wasn't like that at all. It was wondrously refreshingly different.
Secondly, it had a nice touch of humor written into it. Not that goofy humor that you find with those swash-buckling detective stories have. This is done with some subtly but with a great sarcastic edge. I do like that. It's not easy to pull off without the main character becoming almost more of a comic than someone who's in something deeper than they planned to be.
And finally, it was a story that did keep me guessing. Other than knowing that Virgil Cain didn't do it, you have a pretty hard time figuring it out until close to the end. That is a feat worth praising these days! Actually, since the main character is pretty much not even telling this story, it points you at everyone else to consider - and the list is endless.
So it's a read that's worth it. Fast paced, interesting and humorous, it will keep you guessing.
April 18, 2015
Brad Smith’s latest thriller “Red means run” set in rural upstate New York, exhibits good, sound story-telling and introduces a new and compelling protagonist. The title is from a lyric from “Powderfinger”, an old Neil Young song. The subtitle, ‘a Virgil Cain mystery’ ensured that every time I picked up the novel I found myself humming the classic Joan Baez tune “The night they drove old Dixie down”. Like the Virgil Cain(e) of the song this Virgil was not afraid of hard work and seemed to live by the words “take what you need and leave the rest”. The adjectives I would best use to describe him are admirable and honorable.
The beginning of the novel (which is needed to set up the story) was for me a bit disappointing–mostly I think because the character introduced in the beginning, Mickey Dupree was an unlikeable chap. An unscrupulous criminal attorney and avid golfer, he does not engender sympathy or regret when he is killed off at the end of the first chapter.
The second chapter introduces us to Virgil Cain and from there on I was hooked, turning the pages as one might gobble down a great Christmas dinner.
An over-zealous (and not very bright) cop arrests Virgil for murdering Dupree. The strong, silent type, Virgil takes his arrest very stoically while I as the reader was outraged on his behalf. His character comes across as being honest and compassionate and the reader just knows that it is impossible for him to have murdered anyone. When Virgil realizes that the police seem satisfied that they have their man, he knows that he must find out who did murder Dupree so as to exonerate himself. Of course in order to do that he must escape custody…
Virgil’s friend Mary, a septuagenarian veterinarian was a highly moral character that I hope returns in subsequent novels. Mary, like Virgil, has her head screwed on straight and knows the meaning of loyalty and friendship. She, along with the female homicide detective Claire Marchand are the only two allies that Virgil has. Gorgeous and very clever, Claire was the perfect foil for a man as highly principled as Virgil. Filled with suspense, horses, a ‘salt of the earth’, honorable protagonist and just a touch of romance ensures that “Red means run” will appeal to anyone who has ever enjoyed a Dick Francis novel. Be prepared to find yourself reading well into the wee hours… I eagerly await the second book in the series, “Crow’s Landing“.
This review was originally published in 2012 on my blog: Fictionophile
The beginning of the novel (which is needed to set up the story) was for me a bit disappointing–mostly I think because the character introduced in the beginning, Mickey Dupree was an unlikeable chap. An unscrupulous criminal attorney and avid golfer, he does not engender sympathy or regret when he is killed off at the end of the first chapter.
The second chapter introduces us to Virgil Cain and from there on I was hooked, turning the pages as one might gobble down a great Christmas dinner.
An over-zealous (and not very bright) cop arrests Virgil for murdering Dupree. The strong, silent type, Virgil takes his arrest very stoically while I as the reader was outraged on his behalf. His character comes across as being honest and compassionate and the reader just knows that it is impossible for him to have murdered anyone. When Virgil realizes that the police seem satisfied that they have their man, he knows that he must find out who did murder Dupree so as to exonerate himself. Of course in order to do that he must escape custody…
Virgil’s friend Mary, a septuagenarian veterinarian was a highly moral character that I hope returns in subsequent novels. Mary, like Virgil, has her head screwed on straight and knows the meaning of loyalty and friendship. She, along with the female homicide detective Claire Marchand are the only two allies that Virgil has. Gorgeous and very clever, Claire was the perfect foil for a man as highly principled as Virgil. Filled with suspense, horses, a ‘salt of the earth’, honorable protagonist and just a touch of romance ensures that “Red means run” will appeal to anyone who has ever enjoyed a Dick Francis novel. Be prepared to find yourself reading well into the wee hours… I eagerly await the second book in the series, “Crow’s Landing“.
This review was originally published in 2012 on my blog: Fictionophile
April 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this.
Very well written and characters and well described and easy to visualise.
Usually, the typical murder mystery follows either the detective or amateur sleuth in the form of a busy body, so it was quite different to mostly follow the accused.
I'm still not sure how realistic Mickey's death was.
I might read the sequel, but I'm happy enough with this being a standalone.
Very well written and characters and well described and easy to visualise.
Usually, the typical murder mystery follows either the detective or amateur sleuth in the form of a busy body, so it was quite different to mostly follow the accused.
I'm still not sure how realistic Mickey's death was.
I might read the sequel, but I'm happy enough with this being a standalone.
January 29, 2014
Red Means Run is the first book in Brad Smith's series of Virgil Cain Mysteries and its worth a read for the enterprising main character and for the beautiful detective Claire, who helps him set the record straight. Cain, a former ballplayer turned farmer, took over a local horse farm from his old coach who died of Lou Gehrig disease. Cain has a heroic mien and bent as besides helping out his old coach, has also been helping out the fiesty vet Mary, who has been seizing horses from other horse farms where they were abused and letting them live on his farm.
Despite his good deeds, he finds himself on the wrong side of the law fairly quickly. Mickey Dupree, a successful criminal defense lawyer, has been found stabbed through the heart with the shaft of a 5 iron on the difficult 7th hole of the local golf course, his par round ended very abruptly. The killer has even raked the sand.
Joe Brady, a local cop, without a shred of proof, immediately arrests Cain, because Cain had a motive. Dupree successfully defended Alan Comstock, a wealthy record producer, against charges that he murdered Cain's wife.
Cain, who has a record in Canada, is not sure that he is going to get a fair shake and has a lot of experience with the law and its consequences.
Given a chance, he escapes from lockup and tries to clear his name. But while he is on the run, Comstock also ends up dead, riddled with bullets from his own gun. Now suspected of two crimes, Cain is left to try to figure out who is the actual killer.
He is helped by the beautiful Claire Marchand, a police detective, who believes that Brady acted too quick without any evidence.
Marchand and Cain will work separately and then together to discover the killer.
Smith has a clear voice and captures the essence of this little town, with its wealthy horse traders, who sometimes are not adverse to cutting corners to make money, their wives, be it trophy wives or long suffering wives with their own agendas, and a rich pageantry of interesting characters.
Its a pretty good read.
Despite his good deeds, he finds himself on the wrong side of the law fairly quickly. Mickey Dupree, a successful criminal defense lawyer, has been found stabbed through the heart with the shaft of a 5 iron on the difficult 7th hole of the local golf course, his par round ended very abruptly. The killer has even raked the sand.
Joe Brady, a local cop, without a shred of proof, immediately arrests Cain, because Cain had a motive. Dupree successfully defended Alan Comstock, a wealthy record producer, against charges that he murdered Cain's wife.
Cain, who has a record in Canada, is not sure that he is going to get a fair shake and has a lot of experience with the law and its consequences.
Given a chance, he escapes from lockup and tries to clear his name. But while he is on the run, Comstock also ends up dead, riddled with bullets from his own gun. Now suspected of two crimes, Cain is left to try to figure out who is the actual killer.
He is helped by the beautiful Claire Marchand, a police detective, who believes that Brady acted too quick without any evidence.
Marchand and Cain will work separately and then together to discover the killer.
Smith has a clear voice and captures the essence of this little town, with its wealthy horse traders, who sometimes are not adverse to cutting corners to make money, their wives, be it trophy wives or long suffering wives with their own agendas, and a rich pageantry of interesting characters.
Its a pretty good read.
November 2, 2014
There are two interesting characters at the heart of this mystery, and they make for absorbing reading. But the rest of the overly-large supporting cast is variable, and written as very movie-of-the-week; suffice to say, they didn't hold my interst. To cap it off, the conclusion is very much the acme of an anti-climax, and had me shouting "that's it"? This is certainly much less impressive than the other Brad Smith novels I've been privileged to read.
May 22, 2020
2.5 stars-- could have rounded it up or down, but due to the far-fetched quality of several characters, voted for "down."
The best character in this story is Virgil Cain (can't stop hearing that song by the Band in my head), a Canadian born all around simple, honest, good-guy trying to make a go of it as a cattle rancher in Saugerties NY.
Well, in short, he is accused and arrested for a crime he didn't commit by an idiot-cop who is too dumb and lazy to look for the real perp. Fortunately, a very lovely, divorced detective sees things a bit more clearly, and elects to keep an open mind. Not easily done when Virgil escapes, having realized that if he relies on the system, he'll lose (don't you know only the rich get away with crimes?).
Luckily for him, the attractive detective also notices that Virgil is easy on the eyes, and appeals to her in every way her ex failed to do so.
It didn't take a detective to see where this was headed. The only "surprise" was the real killer's reveal, which was pretty well done. If the rest wasn't so impossible to believe, I'd have rounded up the score.
Oh well, it was a coin-toss, for what it's worth. The good news is there are a few entertaining bits, and it's a quick read.
Always willing to explore authors unknown to me here and there, but it reinforces the reality that writing a compelling novel is a skill found only too rarely. So cherish those wonderful writers and encourage others to try... gotta keep them coming.
The best character in this story is Virgil Cain (can't stop hearing that song by the Band in my head), a Canadian born all around simple, honest, good-guy trying to make a go of it as a cattle rancher in Saugerties NY.
Well, in short, he is accused and arrested for a crime he didn't commit by an idiot-cop who is too dumb and lazy to look for the real perp. Fortunately, a very lovely, divorced detective sees things a bit more clearly, and elects to keep an open mind. Not easily done when Virgil escapes, having realized that if he relies on the system, he'll lose (don't you know only the rich get away with crimes?).
Luckily for him, the attractive detective also notices that Virgil is easy on the eyes, and appeals to her in every way her ex failed to do so.
It didn't take a detective to see where this was headed. The only "surprise" was the real killer's reveal, which was pretty well done. If the rest wasn't so impossible to believe, I'd have rounded up the score.
Oh well, it was a coin-toss, for what it's worth. The good news is there are a few entertaining bits, and it's a quick read.
Always willing to explore authors unknown to me here and there, but it reinforces the reality that writing a compelling novel is a skill found only too rarely. So cherish those wonderful writers and encourage others to try... gotta keep them coming.
January 31, 2012
I love it when I find a great new mystery novel, but I love it even more when I also find a great new author. When I agreed to read/review for this book, I thought ok it looks good, the blurb sounds good, ok lets have a read. Well I have to say it didn't take long for me to finish the book it was that good. I think I read it in a day and a half. Brad Smith has written a show stopper that would make a huge blockbuster movie....I think anyway.
Virgil is a quiet guy who has been through hell, his father -in-law died of cancer and then his wife was killed and the Lawyer that defended the killer and got him off for that crime is found dead on the golf course, and because Virgil happened to be in a bar at the same time as the Lawyer Mickey, and voiced is opinion that "Someone should blow that guys head off", the police focus their investigation on Virgil, a case of wrong place, wrong time and said words out of anger.
After being arrested, and nobody willing to believe or help him prove his innocence, he has to take matters into his own hands and prove to everyone that he did not kill Mickey and the other bodies that keep piling up and evidence that is stacking up against him. There seems to be only two people that believe him but that's not enough, so Virgil escapes jail and sets out to prove himself right.
It's a fast pace novel, that will take you on a roller coaster ride you will not want to miss. While rooting for Virgil and praying through the whole book that the only two people that believe him are willing to help him any way they can, without getting themselves into trouble of course. I loved Brad's style of writing, it's smooth, the plot is flawless and the characters fit extremely well together good and bad. Virgil's determination, but sense of humor through out all the crap he has to go through, I'd have to say one of my favorite characters was a sexy detective Claire Marchand, and against her better judgement as a detective she tries to help Virgil the best she can.
I love how this novel waste's no time getting to the story, the twists and turns it takes you on and the big twits at the end of the novel was awesome. Brad has written a huge hit and I can't wait for you all to read it. I hope you all enjoy as much as I did and don't forget to watch the trailer below, if you don't already want to read this fantastic book you will after watching the trailer!! Enjoy everyone!
Virgil is a quiet guy who has been through hell, his father -in-law died of cancer and then his wife was killed and the Lawyer that defended the killer and got him off for that crime is found dead on the golf course, and because Virgil happened to be in a bar at the same time as the Lawyer Mickey, and voiced is opinion that "Someone should blow that guys head off", the police focus their investigation on Virgil, a case of wrong place, wrong time and said words out of anger.
After being arrested, and nobody willing to believe or help him prove his innocence, he has to take matters into his own hands and prove to everyone that he did not kill Mickey and the other bodies that keep piling up and evidence that is stacking up against him. There seems to be only two people that believe him but that's not enough, so Virgil escapes jail and sets out to prove himself right.
It's a fast pace novel, that will take you on a roller coaster ride you will not want to miss. While rooting for Virgil and praying through the whole book that the only two people that believe him are willing to help him any way they can, without getting themselves into trouble of course. I loved Brad's style of writing, it's smooth, the plot is flawless and the characters fit extremely well together good and bad. Virgil's determination, but sense of humor through out all the crap he has to go through, I'd have to say one of my favorite characters was a sexy detective Claire Marchand, and against her better judgement as a detective she tries to help Virgil the best she can.
I love how this novel waste's no time getting to the story, the twists and turns it takes you on and the big twits at the end of the novel was awesome. Brad has written a huge hit and I can't wait for you all to read it. I hope you all enjoy as much as I did and don't forget to watch the trailer below, if you don't already want to read this fantastic book you will after watching the trailer!! Enjoy everyone!
November 26, 2018
Smith is a good writer, but some of the things in the story would never happen.
July 24, 2020
Pretty much crap. No available time to waste for this drivel.
January 8, 2012
I've added Brad Smith's previous books to my Canadian authors displays at the library in the past, but I admit I hadn't read this author until I picked up his new release - Red Means Run. And I really wish I had, because he's good - really good.
Criminal attorney Mickey Dupree is found dead at the local golf course. It looks to be murder - the golf club shaft through the chest points to it. And the cops think the clues point straight to Virgil Cain. Once they've locked him up in jail, Virgil realizes that the only way to prove his innocence is to do it himself. So....he breaks out of jail and starts to work the case himself.
Smith's forté is the characters he has created. Virgil is described as a 'clever, laconic charmer' and I don't think I could say it any better. But I would add in sexy. Kind of a country Jack Reacher if you will. The two cops pursuing Virgil are poles apart. Joe Brady is an inept bumbler completely unaware of his deficiencies, certain that he is the man. But Claire Marchand is another story - she's a match for Virgil - maybe in more ways than one. Their cat and mouse game is fantastic. The aging vet, Mary, is a solid supporting character with many of her own tales I suspect.
But those characters are also carrying a plot that is fun, fast and furious. The run up to the ending (which featured a great twist) had me turning pages at breakneck speed. Okay, so the characters and the plot are great - what else? The dialogue - short and snappy, matching the pace of the action. The book is set in the US, but I enjoyed the sly Canadian jibes and references thrown in.
Red Means Run will appeal to all readers - Smith has provided strong protagonists of both sexes. I can't wait to read the next in this new series.
Just a fantastic read - highly recommended.(And I think there's more than a little of Brad in Virgil.... which means I'm a little bit in love with Brad too...)
Criminal attorney Mickey Dupree is found dead at the local golf course. It looks to be murder - the golf club shaft through the chest points to it. And the cops think the clues point straight to Virgil Cain. Once they've locked him up in jail, Virgil realizes that the only way to prove his innocence is to do it himself. So....he breaks out of jail and starts to work the case himself.
Smith's forté is the characters he has created. Virgil is described as a 'clever, laconic charmer' and I don't think I could say it any better. But I would add in sexy. Kind of a country Jack Reacher if you will. The two cops pursuing Virgil are poles apart. Joe Brady is an inept bumbler completely unaware of his deficiencies, certain that he is the man. But Claire Marchand is another story - she's a match for Virgil - maybe in more ways than one. Their cat and mouse game is fantastic. The aging vet, Mary, is a solid supporting character with many of her own tales I suspect.
But those characters are also carrying a plot that is fun, fast and furious. The run up to the ending (which featured a great twist) had me turning pages at breakneck speed. Okay, so the characters and the plot are great - what else? The dialogue - short and snappy, matching the pace of the action. The book is set in the US, but I enjoyed the sly Canadian jibes and references thrown in.
Red Means Run will appeal to all readers - Smith has provided strong protagonists of both sexes. I can't wait to read the next in this new series.
Just a fantastic read - highly recommended.(And I think there's more than a little of Brad in Virgil.... which means I'm a little bit in love with Brad too...)
January 9, 2012
This review can be found on Cozy Up With A Good Read
I found this to be an interesting crime/mystery book by a Canadian (something I have not read before to be honest). I really enjoyed the characters that we get to meet throughout the story, especially Virgil Cain himself. He is a sarcastic guy and brings a touch of humour to the book. I enjoyed the idea of Virgil trying to find the killer when everyone already believes for him to be the killer, it always makes for an interesting story.
The problem I found with this book, though, was that there was more focus on Virgil escaping police custody and him just trying to keep everyone off his track. The focus of the story is everyone trying to find him rather than anyone trying to find reason that he may not be the killer. It took too long to get around to anyone looking for clues for a different killer (including Virgil himself).
Another issue I had was that the main cop leading the investigation (Joe Brady) jumps the gun for a cop right at the beginning in arresting Virgil. I just thought there would be a little more search into another suspect but that doesn't come until closer to the very end of the book.
With that being said I enjoyed a lot of things about this book. The mystery of it was written well and Brad Smith does a good job of having you guessing throughout the entire story. I did enjoy the secondary character of Mary, who is a moral character and yet she is so adorable. At the beginning I found there were a lot of characters and different stories to follow, but I did understand they would all come together eventually (which they do at the end). And when they do come together it was actually a nice surprise.
I found this to be an interesting crime/mystery book by a Canadian (something I have not read before to be honest). I really enjoyed the characters that we get to meet throughout the story, especially Virgil Cain himself. He is a sarcastic guy and brings a touch of humour to the book. I enjoyed the idea of Virgil trying to find the killer when everyone already believes for him to be the killer, it always makes for an interesting story.
The problem I found with this book, though, was that there was more focus on Virgil escaping police custody and him just trying to keep everyone off his track. The focus of the story is everyone trying to find him rather than anyone trying to find reason that he may not be the killer. It took too long to get around to anyone looking for clues for a different killer (including Virgil himself).
Another issue I had was that the main cop leading the investigation (Joe Brady) jumps the gun for a cop right at the beginning in arresting Virgil. I just thought there would be a little more search into another suspect but that doesn't come until closer to the very end of the book.
With that being said I enjoyed a lot of things about this book. The mystery of it was written well and Brad Smith does a good job of having you guessing throughout the entire story. I did enjoy the secondary character of Mary, who is a moral character and yet she is so adorable. At the beginning I found there were a lot of characters and different stories to follow, but I did understand they would all come together eventually (which they do at the end). And when they do come together it was actually a nice surprise.
January 10, 2012
The Good Stuff
* Canadian author & not at all depressing (Yes I know I have an ``issue``)
* Dialogue is hilarious at times
* Lots of plot twists and turns that keep you guessing on whodunit -- I swore it was one person and it ended up being someone else
* Interesting secondary characters
* Claire reminds me of Beckett from the TV show Castle
* Love how Claire and Virgil's back-stories are given in bits and pieces here and there - gives it a realistic feel
* Suzanne was a fun character - enjoyed her frank way of speaking
* Enjoyed some of the thinly veiled pot shots at dumb American cops
* Perfect read for a cold winters night
The Not So Good Stuff
* a little slow at times, but mostly because it is giving you a lot of background on Virgil for further books
* Title sucks & cover is sort of lame (sorry have to be honest)
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"She considered not calling Joe Brady for a while. Presumably he and the dogs were still on the trail, stumbling around in the thick woods east of the Hudson. Maybe Joe would bump his head on a tree limb and smarten up a little. In the ends, she did call him, out of respect for Patterson and thew SWAT guys. The dogs too."
"The Mounties will get him," Joe said. "He`s one of theirs."
"Yeah" Claire said. "They probably have some special insight on how a Canadian thinks."
"I`m heading up into Canada," he told her. "To talk to the Mounties."
He made the announcement as if he were Meriwether Lewis and Canada was the great unknown expanse west of the Mississippi. "
Who Should /Shouldn't Read
* Mystery fans will enjoy
* Perfect for fans of Lehane and Deaver
4 Dewey`s
I received this from Simon and Schuster in Exchange for an Honest Review
* Canadian author & not at all depressing (Yes I know I have an ``issue``)
* Dialogue is hilarious at times
* Lots of plot twists and turns that keep you guessing on whodunit -- I swore it was one person and it ended up being someone else
* Interesting secondary characters
* Claire reminds me of Beckett from the TV show Castle
* Love how Claire and Virgil's back-stories are given in bits and pieces here and there - gives it a realistic feel
* Suzanne was a fun character - enjoyed her frank way of speaking
* Enjoyed some of the thinly veiled pot shots at dumb American cops
* Perfect read for a cold winters night
The Not So Good Stuff
* a little slow at times, but mostly because it is giving you a lot of background on Virgil for further books
* Title sucks & cover is sort of lame (sorry have to be honest)
Favorite Quotes/Passages
"She considered not calling Joe Brady for a while. Presumably he and the dogs were still on the trail, stumbling around in the thick woods east of the Hudson. Maybe Joe would bump his head on a tree limb and smarten up a little. In the ends, she did call him, out of respect for Patterson and thew SWAT guys. The dogs too."
"The Mounties will get him," Joe said. "He`s one of theirs."
"Yeah" Claire said. "They probably have some special insight on how a Canadian thinks."
"I`m heading up into Canada," he told her. "To talk to the Mounties."
He made the announcement as if he were Meriwether Lewis and Canada was the great unknown expanse west of the Mississippi. "
Who Should /Shouldn't Read
* Mystery fans will enjoy
* Perfect for fans of Lehane and Deaver
4 Dewey`s
I received this from Simon and Schuster in Exchange for an Honest Review
May 11, 2012
Brad Smith was a new Canadian author to me. I picked up his book "Red Means Run" based on a blurb which described it as "country-noir." It was a fun read, but more along the lines of a Robert Crais smart-aleck type of mystery instead of the dark-tinged noir genre. I've grown to associate the term country-noir with the Ozark-based novels and short stories of Daniel Woodrell and I think he was the one who first coined the term. Woodrell's works are a lot darker and more closely fit the idea of noir in general. Brad Smith's "Red Means Run" is more along the lines of a comic caper type of novel although it is still a murder mystery. His lead character is a Canadian named Virgil Cain who through a chain of events is farming in upper-New York State in the vicinity of Kingston, nearby the famed Woodstock / West Saugerties (home of the Big Pink house) sites associated with Bob Dylan and the Band. Cain is framed for a murder and ends up working with sassy country police detective Claire Marchand to solve the crime. The sharp and witty dialogue between the two leads was one of the pleasures of the book and gives it the sort of flavour of Elmore Leonard's "Out of Sight." I'll definitely look out for past and future Brad Smith novels as a series seems to be promised from the "Red Means Run" sub-title "a Virgil Cain novel."
Trivia note: The title of the book is taken from the Neil Young "Powderfinger" song lyric: "Daddy's rifle in my hand felt reassurin', He told me, red means run, son, numbers add up to nothin'."
Trivia note: The title of the book is taken from the Neil Young "Powderfinger" song lyric: "Daddy's rifle in my hand felt reassurin', He told me, red means run, son, numbers add up to nothin'."
July 12, 2017
I'll be honest: I don't understand the rave reviews for this one. The ending was so anticlimactic that I'm not sure I can, in good conscience, call it an "ending" at all. The pacing was rushed; the characters archetypical; the story all too predictable.
Woof. Brad Smith should be glad I've read James Patterson, so I know what a true one-star book looks like—The Jester, anyone?—as that's about the only reason for the second star here.
Woof. Brad Smith should be glad I've read James Patterson, so I know what a true one-star book looks like—The Jester, anyone?—as that's about the only reason for the second star here.
February 4, 2012
Highly enjoyable. Nice characterization. Kind of a dry sense of humor throughout. This is what the first Jack Reacher novel by Lee Child should've been. It's about a wrongly accused man trying to clear his name and solve the murder, a la Reacher, but instead of being a laconic ex-military type loner with mad fighting skills, Virgil Cain is a laconic ex-baseball player turned farmer salt of the earth type with some flawed but good relationships who is quite realistic. When he's arrested for the murder of a slimy high-powered lawyer who has received a golf club through the heart (whom Cain had threatened previously), Cain starts to realize the incompetent cop in charge of his case isn't looking any further for the real murderer. Much like with Jack Reacher, a woman cop also features, but unlike with Reacher, the cop is intelligent, with professional skills, and the romantic elements between the two actually make sense. There's a rogue's gallery (as one reviewer put it) of potential murderers, the body count progresses but no gratuitously violent scenes (i just lost the Reacher fans), and the twists and turns kept me guessing. Great straightforward enjoyable suspenseful mystery.
September 1, 2012
I'm writing this review over a week after I finished this book, and I'm deducting a star from what would have been my original rating because I couldn't remember the story without looking at the book again, the title is that bad. Usually, titles tell you something about the book (well, that's the theory anyway) and help you remember the story. But this title is only explained quite far into the book, and even then doesn't really the theme or plot of the book, other than in the most generic sense of "see blood, run away."
The plot and characters were fine, but the hero was a bit all over the place. He escapes from jail so that he can solve the murder he's been accused of committing, but then he kind of wanders all over the place in a vague way. He shows some smarts in his escape, but then shows lack of any strategic thinking as he seeks to solve the murder. It was like the author couldn't make up his mind about his lead character. For all that plus a few predictable boring clichéd plot turns, I was involved enough in the plot and character interactions to keep reading to the end.
The plot and characters were fine, but the hero was a bit all over the place. He escapes from jail so that he can solve the murder he's been accused of committing, but then he kind of wanders all over the place in a vague way. He shows some smarts in his escape, but then shows lack of any strategic thinking as he seeks to solve the murder. It was like the author couldn't make up his mind about his lead character. For all that plus a few predictable boring clichéd plot turns, I was involved enough in the plot and character interactions to keep reading to the end.
February 9, 2017
I really enjoyed this one! It's not something that I would normally pick up, but my book club is reading it so read it I did :-)
Without reading the synopsis for this, I didn't realize that Virgil was going to be the main character for the series. First I thought it was the lawyer, but then he died. Then I was thinking it was the cop Brady, but he was a jerk so I'm glad it's not. My husband and I just finished watching The Ranch on Netflix so when Cain came into the book, I kept picturing Sam Elliott talking. I know there is like a 30 year age difference between the two, but it just fit in my mind for awhile. It's amazing how some cops jump to make an arrest without proof of anything. I was amazed at how fast it was and actually thought that meant the cop was the guilty one (not saying he was or wasn't...read the book and find out!!). Cain handled it all pretty well and was a smart man. I liked how he "worked" with the cop to solve the murder. I'm kind of excited to read another one in this series!
Without reading the synopsis for this, I didn't realize that Virgil was going to be the main character for the series. First I thought it was the lawyer, but then he died. Then I was thinking it was the cop Brady, but he was a jerk so I'm glad it's not. My husband and I just finished watching The Ranch on Netflix so when Cain came into the book, I kept picturing Sam Elliott talking. I know there is like a 30 year age difference between the two, but it just fit in my mind for awhile. It's amazing how some cops jump to make an arrest without proof of anything. I was amazed at how fast it was and actually thought that meant the cop was the guilty one (not saying he was or wasn't...read the book and find out!!). Cain handled it all pretty well and was a smart man. I liked how he "worked" with the cop to solve the murder. I'm kind of excited to read another one in this series!
July 15, 2012
I received my copy today as a First Reads winner...
In compliance with FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I do have several books in line for reading first, but I look forward to reading and reviewing this book.
So I finally read this book, and I have to admit I don't really know what I expected. I saw the trailer and I read the synopsis on the back cover...but I was only a little interested. Boy, should I have had higher expectations. It was an easy read, but a good read! I even found found myself exclaiming out loud at a few parts and having to explain to my husband that I couldn't figure out what was going to happen next - it was like there was a twist of information or something every couple of chapters. I always had to keep reading! I would definitely read more books by Brad Smith, and I'm already lending it out to others who enjoy the murder-mysteries in life.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, I am disclosing that I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I do have several books in line for reading first, but I look forward to reading and reviewing this book.
So I finally read this book, and I have to admit I don't really know what I expected. I saw the trailer and I read the synopsis on the back cover...but I was only a little interested. Boy, should I have had higher expectations. It was an easy read, but a good read! I even found found myself exclaiming out loud at a few parts and having to explain to my husband that I couldn't figure out what was going to happen next - it was like there was a twist of information or something every couple of chapters. I always had to keep reading! I would definitely read more books by Brad Smith, and I'm already lending it out to others who enjoy the murder-mysteries in life.
August 1, 2012
The first in the Virgil Cain mystery series. Virgil is on the run from the law, being the primary (and only) suspect in the murder of two men. Just two weeks before, a crowded bar heard him say that “somebody ought to blow Mickey’s head off". Mickey (the first victim) was a slippery lawyer who had just gotten the man charged with murdering Virgil's wife acquitted. Everyone figures the killer has to be Virgil. He needs to find the real killer(s) before they lock him up and throw away the key. An interesting well-rounded group of characters; I enjoyed this book and will most likely check out the next in the series. My only hesitation is that I'm finding way too many books that I want to read - and way too many new (to me) series that I want to dive into. So, we'll see, hopefully I'll see what book 2 in this series has to offer.
July 20, 2012
This is the type of old school mystery story that you share with your dad. It's a straight-forward, fun ride that unravels and reveals slowly and reliably. It's a good read that is relaxing and somewhat familiar.
Virgil is an old school farmer that reminds me of my grandpa. He has a simple, hard-working, happy life that fufills him without the drama and instant-gratification of most modern lives. I enjoyed being part of his adventure, especially his jail escape. That was quite exciting and remarkable.
Joe is the epitome of a stupid judgmental cop. He's annoying and a hazard to everyone. He seems a bit like a stereotype, but that fits the type of story.
Overall, this was a fun read that would make a great gift for the older man in your life.
Virgil is an old school farmer that reminds me of my grandpa. He has a simple, hard-working, happy life that fufills him without the drama and instant-gratification of most modern lives. I enjoyed being part of his adventure, especially his jail escape. That was quite exciting and remarkable.
Joe is the epitome of a stupid judgmental cop. He's annoying and a hazard to everyone. He seems a bit like a stereotype, but that fits the type of story.
Overall, this was a fun read that would make a great gift for the older man in your life.
February 12, 2012
I received Red Means Run for free through Goodreads First Reads. I had not read anything by Brad Smith previously and was looking forward to reading this Canadian author's murder mystery. He did not disappoint.
I enjoyed the characters and interactions within this small town. Sometimes, you suspect right away who "did it" but that was not the case here. At the same time, the actual killer made complete sense.
Virgil knows he is in trouble and that being innocent is not enough when the police are not looking for any other suspects. He tries to clear his name as best he can and in a way that is believable. His subsequent partnership with Claire adds a bit of hope and romance.
I look forward to reading more of Brad Smith's works.
I enjoyed the characters and interactions within this small town. Sometimes, you suspect right away who "did it" but that was not the case here. At the same time, the actual killer made complete sense.
Virgil knows he is in trouble and that being innocent is not enough when the police are not looking for any other suspects. He tries to clear his name as best he can and in a way that is believable. His subsequent partnership with Claire adds a bit of hope and romance.
I look forward to reading more of Brad Smith's works.
August 25, 2012
I had received Crow's Landing for free from Goodreads and I was interested in learning more about Virgil Cain the main character in the book so I broke down and purchased "Red Means Run". I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even more than Crow's Landing.
A lawyer named Mickey Dupree is found murdered on a golf course and since Virgil Cain mouthed off in a bar that "somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off" he becomes the prime suspect. Virgil is arrested but manages to escape while being transfered to jail. He then flees and tries to find out who the killer is, not only are two more killings but the killer wants Virgil dead also. I was quite surprised at the outcome of who the killer was and the motives behind the killings.
A lawyer named Mickey Dupree is found murdered on a golf course and since Virgil Cain mouthed off in a bar that "somebody ought to blow Mickey's head off" he becomes the prime suspect. Virgil is arrested but manages to escape while being transfered to jail. He then flees and tries to find out who the killer is, not only are two more killings but the killer wants Virgil dead also. I was quite surprised at the outcome of who the killer was and the motives behind the killings.
June 7, 2015
The first in a series of novels involving Virgil Cain, a Quebec native who has ended up living near Woodstock New York where he runs a 100 acre farm and tries to cope with being a decent honest individual. Cain is a throwback to a time largely pre-20th century who revels in hard work, true emotion and honest people without pretension. The creation of Canada's Brad Smith ( often with reason compared to Elmore Leonard) this series promises to be addictive in the extreme. In this particular novel, the lawyer responsible for getting an acquittal for the man who killed Virgil's wife is murdered and the stupidest cop in the world decides Cain did it. From there the story gets intriguing and surprising. It is a read worth doing.
January 21, 2012
First I would like to thank the author, publisher and Goodreads for this book that I received in the Goodreads free giveaways contest.
This book was a delight to read. It was written by a Canadian author, Brad Smith, whom I had never heard of before, but will be on the lookout for in the future. The book is a mystery book that is both entertaining as well as spellbinding. It is a real whodunit type of book. The characters are interesting, humourous and realistic.
The story has a twist at the end that was not expected, but looking back, in the back of your mind you hoped would happen.
All in all, a very good read.
This book was a delight to read. It was written by a Canadian author, Brad Smith, whom I had never heard of before, but will be on the lookout for in the future. The book is a mystery book that is both entertaining as well as spellbinding. It is a real whodunit type of book. The characters are interesting, humourous and realistic.
The story has a twist at the end that was not expected, but looking back, in the back of your mind you hoped would happen.
All in all, a very good read.
December 9, 2018
Brad Smith's novel Red Means Run is funny, smart, & well written. I really enjoyed his characters & think it could have been longer as I wanted more interaction with them. Virgil is the kind of man on the run a gal could really fall for, he's got great handyman skills too! Hopefully Brad Smith plans on writing a series about Virgil. The pace was good & I didn't want to put it down but there are rules against reading on company time. Overall I would rate it a 3-1/2 stars on the goodreads system. Wish we had a ten star rating as it would be a 7 or 8. I will be checking out more of Brad Smith's books.
April 6, 2016
I received this as an advanced readers copy from Goodreads. Red Means Run is a murder mystery revolving around a New York town police department and a farmer, Virgil Cain, who is accused of two murders. Cain is arrested and, after escaping custody, is on the run from the police. Everyone except one Police Officer, Clair, wants to believe Cain is the one responsible for both murders, however after going over evidence with a fine tooth comb, Clair begins to see that Cain may not be the fugitive everyone believes he is. With lots of plot twists, this novel provides a captive reading experience.
December 15, 2011
When I began reading "Red means Run" it immediately caught my attention. The story seems that it could have actually happened. The characters are people you may come in contact with while waiting for a coffee in a line or at the supermarket. The story line is similar to other novels I have read however it kept pressing me to read on. The twist in turns in the story line kept my mind working on who did it? and usually I can guess but I was unable to figure this one out. I plan to seek out more of the authors novels and I hope they are as good as this one is.
May 8, 2012
I think it's still too early to proclaim Brad Smith as Canada's answer to Elmore Leonard; after all, Smith has written only six books, and Leonard has umpteen-million novels and stories behind him. But based on Red Means Run, combined with his past output, it's clear that Smith knows his way around the genre, and has a hell of a lot of fun navigating the terrain.
Read the rest of the review here.
Read the rest of the review here.
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