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Kurt Hunter Mysteries #5
Backwater Pass
How many lives is a cover-up worth When a bridge collapses and kills six people, National Park Service Special Agent Kurt Hunter is drawn into a tangled web of political machinations. With the bridge debris scheduled to be turned into an artificial reef in the park, Kurt and Justine are in a race against time to find the party responsible. But things are not as simple as they appear and soon powerful political figures turn the case into a power struggle to save one of the countries biggest universities.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 13, 2018
683 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 2, 2018
I loved Backwater Pass. Okay, I could stop there, because that covers it.
Nah.
I keep asking myself WHY I keep reading these Kurt Hunter books. The answer isn't a simple one. Part is the setting. I mean, if you have to live anywhere NEAR Miami, what better place to live than on your own private, government supplied island, complete with rent free housing? An escape from the noise, traffic and crowds. Not the crime, though, because where would be the fun in that?
Another part is the cast of characters. Who among us hasn't run across an a......, uh, JERK like Martinez. I know, many of us would want him dispatched in some spectacular and excruciating manner. But I like him where he is. Yeah, he's arrogant, condescending and slimy. But don't you love it when Hunter manipulates him without his even realizing it? Notice how as Hunter gets comfortable with his new location he's getting Martinez figured out, and can pull a few fast ones over on him. Rather than taking him out, I'd rather just send him a dozen exploding paintball centered golf balls when he's playing with the Mayor. Or maybe an EMP grenade that would take out all his office electronics. Gifts that keep on giving.
Susan. Well there's one complex witch! I dream of Becker sending her into battle with a dozen heavily armed meth heads, no bulletproof vest and only 6 bullets in her magazine. But that would be too good for her. Better to just have Hunter gaining leverage on her. Paybacks are such lovely things.
Justine is my absolute favorite. But what's not to love about a cute paddle boarding crime tech who would rather have a dead body or a new crime scene to investigate than a dozen roses or a box of chocolates? I mean, who needs theater tickets when you have a free pass to the morgue? Justine makes the series for me.
As the nucleus, Kurt is so much fun. It's great to see his character growing as he gets more comfortable with life, and having an ex-wife, a girlfriend who is becoming his teen daughter's 'BFF,' becoming the step-dad to his neighbor's dog, and getting used to running an under-powered outboard at night.
If this all sounds like a great formula for a fun read, it is. And Backwater Pass, like its 3 predecessors, fits right into this mold. So long as Steven Becker keeps pumping these out, I'll keep my Kindle charged up!
Nah.
I keep asking myself WHY I keep reading these Kurt Hunter books. The answer isn't a simple one. Part is the setting. I mean, if you have to live anywhere NEAR Miami, what better place to live than on your own private, government supplied island, complete with rent free housing? An escape from the noise, traffic and crowds. Not the crime, though, because where would be the fun in that?
Another part is the cast of characters. Who among us hasn't run across an a......, uh, JERK like Martinez. I know, many of us would want him dispatched in some spectacular and excruciating manner. But I like him where he is. Yeah, he's arrogant, condescending and slimy. But don't you love it when Hunter manipulates him without his even realizing it? Notice how as Hunter gets comfortable with his new location he's getting Martinez figured out, and can pull a few fast ones over on him. Rather than taking him out, I'd rather just send him a dozen exploding paintball centered golf balls when he's playing with the Mayor. Or maybe an EMP grenade that would take out all his office electronics. Gifts that keep on giving.
Susan. Well there's one complex witch! I dream of Becker sending her into battle with a dozen heavily armed meth heads, no bulletproof vest and only 6 bullets in her magazine. But that would be too good for her. Better to just have Hunter gaining leverage on her. Paybacks are such lovely things.
Justine is my absolute favorite. But what's not to love about a cute paddle boarding crime tech who would rather have a dead body or a new crime scene to investigate than a dozen roses or a box of chocolates? I mean, who needs theater tickets when you have a free pass to the morgue? Justine makes the series for me.
As the nucleus, Kurt is so much fun. It's great to see his character growing as he gets more comfortable with life, and having an ex-wife, a girlfriend who is becoming his teen daughter's 'BFF,' becoming the step-dad to his neighbor's dog, and getting used to running an under-powered outboard at night.
If this all sounds like a great formula for a fun read, it is. And Backwater Pass, like its 3 predecessors, fits right into this mold. So long as Steven Becker keeps pumping these out, I'll keep my Kindle charged up!
September 23, 2018
Backwater Pass was an AWESOME READ!!
Backwater Pass was a can't out down read! Kurt and his daughter, Allie just miss being smashed by a falling bridge. Kurt get involved in trying to figure out, why the new bridge fell onto traffic, like it did, right in front of him. Plenty of action, in and out of the ocean.
Being born and raised in South Florida, tends to make these Kurt Hunter books, even more exciting!! Can hardly wait, for the next book!!
Backwater Pass was a can't out down read! Kurt and his daughter, Allie just miss being smashed by a falling bridge. Kurt get involved in trying to figure out, why the new bridge fell onto traffic, like it did, right in front of him. Plenty of action, in and out of the ocean.
Being born and raised in South Florida, tends to make these Kurt Hunter books, even more exciting!! Can hardly wait, for the next book!!
August 6, 2018
Our beloved National Park Service Ranger, Special Agent Kurt Hunter, is taking his daughter home after a day of diving when a bridge collapses. The bridge is owned by the local university and the lead engineer is pointing a finger at the contractor. Local authorities have decided to remove the bridge debris and create a reef in the bay. Kurt is concerned that there is more behind the bridge collapse than human error during construction. So begins Kurt's investigation...in spite of the usual constraints imposed by his supervisor, Martinez. OMG...Kurt's interaction with Martinez provides some of the best comic relief! Martinez is the stereotypical bureaucrat, who loves the lime light and is a penny pincher. Kurt is also improving his relationship with his teen daughter, thanks, in part to gf, Justine's help. Kurt finally solves the mystery...and admits his feelings to Justine. I am hooked on this series...and the awesome narration! I look forward to more.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
October 12, 2021
I read this book as a continuation of the Kurt Hunter mysteries series. This book is above and beyond as expected from Steven Becker. Although I cannot make any personal connections with the book I can relate with the fact that bridges and overpasses are very common in Florida and whenever one of the bridges collapses they turn into a man-made reef.
A common theme used within this book is construction because the boo goes in depth about how concrete is made and the ingredients used to make it. This is because Kurt Hunter is trying to solve how the bridge collapsed and he believes someone sabotaged the bridge to specifically kill someone.
This book is recommended to those who like a good mystery book and this book is especially great for those who are in engineering because it talks a lot about concrete molding, bridge design, and etc.
A common theme used within this book is construction because the boo goes in depth about how concrete is made and the ingredients used to make it. This is because Kurt Hunter is trying to solve how the bridge collapsed and he believes someone sabotaged the bridge to specifically kill someone.
This book is recommended to those who like a good mystery book and this book is especially great for those who are in engineering because it talks a lot about concrete molding, bridge design, and etc.
July 16, 2018
Paradise or Miami Vice?
If you've been reading the series as it came out, you already know our hero, Special Agent Kurt Hunter, has a boss who's a bozo and a fellow agent who's a loose cannon. You've also met his girlfriend and his daughter. But if this is your first introduction, everyone is explained as each is introduced to the drama. Kurt has a knack for finding himself in the midst of illegal activity but why did the bridge collapse? Sun, sea, boating and diving all remind you that the Florida Keys are considered by many to be a bit of paradise; forays into Miami may put you in mind of the "Vice" side of things. The myriad details come together in the end--just before the surprise finish!
If you've been reading the series as it came out, you already know our hero, Special Agent Kurt Hunter, has a boss who's a bozo and a fellow agent who's a loose cannon. You've also met his girlfriend and his daughter. But if this is your first introduction, everyone is explained as each is introduced to the drama. Kurt has a knack for finding himself in the midst of illegal activity but why did the bridge collapse? Sun, sea, boating and diving all remind you that the Florida Keys are considered by many to be a bit of paradise; forays into Miami may put you in mind of the "Vice" side of things. The myriad details come together in the end--just before the surprise finish!
September 24, 2024
The walking bridge collapse are facts but the story Steven Becker spins is a work of fiction. Kurt, Allie, and Justine were almost at the bridge when it collapses. Kurt and Justine rush to help until first responders arrive. Allie had to stay in the car. I guess you could say Allie was having issues with the bridge collapse. Kurt and her mama tried to help. The a very quick investigation. FIU wanted it off the media yesterday
Martinez decided to have an artificial reef for Biscayne National park. So the mystery begins. Yes, I recommend this book. Excellent.
Martinez decided to have an artificial reef for Biscayne National park. So the mystery begins. Yes, I recommend this book. Excellent.
August 17, 2018
I'm really enjoying the adventures of Kurt Hunter, and can hardly wait for book 6! This one was ripped straight from the news earlier this year, when a brand new pedestrian bridge collapsed, killing several people. In this case, of course, there's more intrigue to it. Really loving how all the various characters are being fleshed out as I've gotten to know them. Now I have the real Biscayne NP in my bucket list.
December 4, 2023
Past paced page turner. Since this was based on a real event, I didn't see how it was going to be handled. You can read this book in one sitting, just don't want to put it down. The characters are well developed and with each book you find more about their past and their current personalities. I have to say there was a surprise ending to this one.
April 12, 2019
Love all the characters in this series
I have read the entire series and couldn’t wait for each book to come out! Kurt Hunter and his cast of characters will keep you wanting more. Steven Becker just keep them coming!
I have read the entire series and couldn’t wait for each book to come out! Kurt Hunter and his cast of characters will keep you wanting more. Steven Becker just keep them coming!
August 21, 2019
Trouble is brewing
Our favorite Park is the place selected to bury debris from a bridge failure. It sounds like a win win for everyone. But wait!!!! No one wants to listen, but our favorite agent thinks they may be burying evidence of a murder.
Our favorite Park is the place selected to bury debris from a bridge failure. It sounds like a win win for everyone. But wait!!!! No one wants to listen, but our favorite agent thinks they may be burying evidence of a murder.
Read
December 23, 2021Bridges and boats and bangs
Kurt and Justine get a lot of chances to be on the water in this fast-paced thriller full of mystery after a bridge collapses and people are killed. But proving it wasn't an accident is harder than Kurt thought.
Kurt and Justine get a lot of chances to be on the water in this fast-paced thriller full of mystery after a bridge collapses and people are killed. But proving it wasn't an accident is harder than Kurt thought.
July 19, 2023
Great adventure mystery
A good read with exceptional descriptions of the underwater dives and unusual events that happen to Kurt and his pals. I believe this is one of my favorite books so far in the Kurt Hunter Mysteries.
A good read with exceptional descriptions of the underwater dives and unusual events that happen to Kurt and his pals. I believe this is one of my favorite books so far in the Kurt Hunter Mysteries.
August 10, 2023
Great story as always
Kurt gets involved in another big case and struggles to solve it. He gets time with his daughter now, and develops a love life. Always good clean interesting story.
Kurt gets involved in another big case and struggles to solve it. He gets time with his daughter now, and develops a love life. Always good clean interesting story.
March 7, 2024
Even Better
This 5th book in the series is even better, as Becker finds a rhythm with his characters. I was leery because the preface revealed this was inspired by a tragic true story, but the author handled it with respect.
This 5th book in the series is even better, as Becker finds a rhythm with his characters. I was leery because the preface revealed this was inspired by a tragic true story, but the author handled it with respect.
September 23, 2025
So much knowledge!
Fly fishing.navigation.political manoeuvres, diving, reef building, police procedurals, who done it. Divorce, parenting, lobstering, tides & fishing, all wrapped and entwined with, finally... Love!
Fly fishing.navigation.political manoeuvres, diving, reef building, police procedurals, who done it. Divorce, parenting, lobstering, tides & fishing, all wrapped and entwined with, finally... Love!
July 23, 2018
Excellent! Kurt Hunter gets involved in a bridge collapse. Trying to prove liability or accident. His daughter is very involved in this story as is Justine. Wonderful and totally unexpected ending!
August 13, 2018
At it again, but it starts on land.
Another start where Kurt gets between his boss and the camera. In his pig headed way, he plays between his dubious connections and brings the crime to conclusion.
Another start where Kurt gets between his boss and the camera. In his pig headed way, he plays between his dubious connections and brings the crime to conclusion.
September 29, 2018
Good read !
Full of excitement, family values and anxiety for those of us who have dove in the Florida Keys and elsewhere!
Full of excitement, family values and anxiety for those of us who have dove in the Florida Keys and elsewhere!
September 13, 2019
The only bad thing about this book series is that there's only 2 more books.
May 5, 2020
Great read
I am enjoying this series. I would recommend series to anyone who enjoys mysteries and loves series. I am staying up late reading every night.
I am enjoying this series. I would recommend series to anyone who enjoys mysteries and loves series. I am staying up late reading every night.
September 20, 2020
Love this series.
January 8, 2021
Kurt Hunter series is always a good read.
March 26, 2023
Bombs
This is a good story of what could have happened. This author gets things going fast and things just keep accelerating.
This is a good story of what could have happened. This author gets things going fast and things just keep accelerating.
January 6, 2024
Really good read!
This continues in the series and I have really enjoyed the whole series! Definitely recommended to all who enjoy a good mystery as well as the great descriptions of the Keys and dining!
This continues in the series and I have really enjoyed the whole series! Definitely recommended to all who enjoy a good mystery as well as the great descriptions of the Keys and dining!
Read
May 9, 2019Excellent Author!
I love Steven Becker's books. Not just because he can tell a great story, but because he doesn't make me cringe while he does it. It is his writing style. He isn't one to go into graphics for things he doesn't need to go into graphic detail about. While there is some cussing, it is PG-13 at the MOST, and I think most kids hear worse at school!
His books are amazing. They go fast, you can't put them down for long (if at all, in my case. Thank goodness I am retired, so I can pick days to enjoy them, and do little else!!)
One of my most favorite authors of all time. So grateful he is a prolific author. It will take me a few weeks to read all he has written...
This is a great series. The characters have all become like old friends. I hope he takes this series as far as he can and then some. I love reading about them! Thanks, Mr. Becker, for a job very well done!!
I love Steven Becker's books. Not just because he can tell a great story, but because he doesn't make me cringe while he does it. It is his writing style. He isn't one to go into graphics for things he doesn't need to go into graphic detail about. While there is some cussing, it is PG-13 at the MOST, and I think most kids hear worse at school!
His books are amazing. They go fast, you can't put them down for long (if at all, in my case. Thank goodness I am retired, so I can pick days to enjoy them, and do little else!!)
One of my most favorite authors of all time. So grateful he is a prolific author. It will take me a few weeks to read all he has written...
This is a great series. The characters have all become like old friends. I hope he takes this series as far as he can and then some. I love reading about them! Thanks, Mr. Becker, for a job very well done!!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews