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A Legitimate Businessman

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In 2013, a mystery man pulled off one of the most audacious jewelry heists in history. It occurred in the south of France. To this day, the crime still hasn't been solved. This wildly entertaining novel pieces together the clues, and imagines what might have happened… Professional jewel thief Jack Burdette has three Never steal a score large enough to get noticed. Never steal from someone who can hunt you down. And never steal out of necessity. Known to the FBI as "the Gentleman," his rules have made him the underworld’s most talented thief. But when a sudden betrayal leaves him on the brink of financial ruin, Jack is forced to break his precious rules and take on a very dangerous job—one that will pit him against the most infamous thieves from war-torn Yugoslavia. Forced into conflict with his old crew, and with the FBI closing in on his trail, it quickly becomes clear that he’s dancing with the devil...and this time, he might not make it out alive. Surrounded by enemies and unsure who he can trust, Jack must act fast before the score is snatched from his fingertips. But if he makes one wrong move, he could land himself in jail for life—and that’s the best-case scenario. Step into a thrilling heist fiction novel that’s guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Packed with high-stakes action and exhilarating suspense, A Legitimate Businessman is perfect for fans of Heat and The Old Man. ______________________ What readers are ★★★★★ "...magnificent..."
★★★★★ "Wow. What a ride."
★★★★★ "...Ocean's 11 meets Sideways..."
★★★★★ "...a heist novel with flair and panache..."
★★★★★ "...exciting ride through wine and thievery."

234 pages, ebook

Published October 1, 2018

93 people are currently reading
25 people want to read

About the author

Dale M. Nelson

16 books15 followers
Dale M. Nelson grew up outside Tampa, Florida and is a graduate of the University of Florida's College of Journalism and Communications. He served eight years a United States Air Force Officer. Following his military service, Dale relocated to the Washington D.C. area and has worked in the defense, technology and telecommunications sectors before starting his writing career. He currently lives in Washington D.C. with his wife and daughters.

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5 stars
31 (44%)
4 stars
32 (45%)
3 stars
5 (7%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Jim A.
1,267 reviews82 followers
October 21, 2020
I totally enjoy crime caper books. This one is based on an actual crime that took place in Cannes in 2013.

The protagonist leads a double life. World class jewel thief and vintner in the Napa Valley. He turns down a job that he thinks is too high profile as it violates his basic rules. He soon learns that there is no honor among thieves.

Well worth the read if this genre is on your list. The author, however, should learn about Glocks if he is going to have a character use them. No hammer or external safety.
755 reviews22 followers
March 3, 2021
As good as any caper book you'll read out there, this author just doesn't get enough love IMO...likeable characters and a terrific story that moves right along with some neat twists.
40 reviews2 followers
April 4, 2022
I Really Enjoyed this

It makes such a difference from the standard whodunit murder mystery crime stories. Its really clever how the author compels you to stay with the main character throughout all the problems he has to work out. I don't think I've ever wanted such an obvious criminal to get away with the crime he's committed so much. Why not 5 stars? Just a few too many obvious plot turns to allow the story to develop. And if you're reading on Kindle too many noticeable typos. But a solid 4.7
1,831 reviews21 followers
May 7, 2021
This may be a hidden gem since it's been out since 2018 and has garnered little attention and few reviews. It's quite engaging and I enjoyed the characters, the geography, and the plot. It also has some nice twists. This should make a lot of thriller fans happy.

I really appreciate the review copy!!
Profile Image for J.
5 reviews
January 29, 2020
The characters, the scenery, the plot, and the twists make this book awesome. I read the entire second half in one day. Couldn’t put it down. If you like crime novels with a hint of James Bond flare, you will like this book. I am looking forward to the next installments.
64 reviews1 follower
September 4, 2020
Classy

The dual character was terrific and the final heist was magnificent as the two double crossers met their match. Most of the real action comes in the final quarter of the book.
103 reviews
January 2, 2021
Interesting story

I like the main character,Jack. He was a jewel thief with principles and style . However, I felt the story needed better editing and the final part with the FBI and etc. . didn't add to the overall novella. Good read but not great.
1,331 reviews44 followers
April 16, 2021
Loved the characters, the plotting, and the double-crossing in this story about a gentleman jewel thief. Ready for the movie and the sequel. I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and voluntarily provided an honest review.
1,692 reviews12 followers
May 21, 2021
I spent the first half of the book at the edge of my seat. Will he escape? Will he be caught? I spent the second half of the book wondering how he will get himself of this mess. There is lots of detail. There is travel and betrayal. Plenty to like in this book. I liked it.
9 reviews1 follower
June 15, 2021
Very good book. Good story line delivered with excellent story telling. Some romance told with class. What more can yo want? Looking forward to reading more Dale M. Nelson books. Read in one day which is a record for me since I am dyslectic.
131 reviews3 followers
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April 13, 2023
Multifaceted plot twister

Even if Jack is on the wrong side of legality you root for him to achieve his goal of a legal identity. Navigation through a jungle of characters on both sides of the law keep this storyline at max pace. Can't wait to dive into the next installment.
42 reviews
November 17, 2018
Great book.

Very enjoyable to read. Great story line and the characters were bought into the story great. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
6 reviews
April 14, 2019
Great read

Lots of twists and turns. Looking forward to reading more stories of Jack Burdette! I would highly suggest you give it a read.
7 reviews
January 20, 2020
Hard to put down

A good story that is well paced, plenty of details and good character development. I am looking forward to the sequel.
43 reviews1 follower
January 28, 2022
Excellent Story

All well written, complex plot and well executed. Never got lost at always stayed engaged. Looking to #2. Keep up the good work
5 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2018
Solid Descrpive entertainment

Could not give less Than 5 stars. The author takes you to Paris Italy and Sonoma and you will want to tag along with Gentleman Jack where ever he leads. Character development is fascinating. You'll feel like you know these players but you never really know a thief do you? can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews

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