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Smiley and McBlythe #1
Exercise Is Murder
How does a blind man solve a murder?
Former Houston homicide detective Steve Smiley is faced with a dilemma. His college roommate, attorney Ned Logan, is found at the bottom of his exercise pool. The cops think it’s an accident. Steve’s instinct tells him it’s not. But how to prove it? He needs eyes…and a driver.
Heather McBlythe is starting over, again. She’s hoping she will be able to make it through the Police Academy and start her new life before her father’s minions find her. She meets Steve Smiley, an instructor at the Academy, and he presents an interesting proposition to her. When her father’s long arm of influence gets her kicked out of the Academy, Heather needs a place to hide. Smiley’s unorthodox proposition is the perfect answer.
Smiley and McBlythe team up to investigate the murder of Ned Logan. At every turn in the road, they unearth another secret. Who has motive enough for murder? Ned’s wife? His children? The business partner? When the killer takes a shot at Steve, they know they’re getting close. Can they unravel the myriad of secrets before the killer strikes again?
Former Houston homicide detective Steve Smiley is faced with a dilemma. His college roommate, attorney Ned Logan, is found at the bottom of his exercise pool. The cops think it’s an accident. Steve’s instinct tells him it’s not. But how to prove it? He needs eyes…and a driver.
Heather McBlythe is starting over, again. She’s hoping she will be able to make it through the Police Academy and start her new life before her father’s minions find her. She meets Steve Smiley, an instructor at the Academy, and he presents an interesting proposition to her. When her father’s long arm of influence gets her kicked out of the Academy, Heather needs a place to hide. Smiley’s unorthodox proposition is the perfect answer.
Smiley and McBlythe team up to investigate the murder of Ned Logan. At every turn in the road, they unearth another secret. Who has motive enough for murder? Ned’s wife? His children? The business partner? When the killer takes a shot at Steve, they know they’re getting close. Can they unravel the myriad of secrets before the killer strikes again?
97 pages, ebook
First published January 31, 2019
About the author
Bruce Hammack
52 books436 followersDrawing from his extensive background in criminal justice, Bruce Hammack writes contemporary, clean read detective and crime mysteries.
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
When he's not writing his next novel, he enjoys reading classic whodunits, watching film noir movies and traveling to see new places.
Having lived in eighteen cities around the world, he now lives in the Texas hill country with his wife of thirty-plus years.
He is the author of the Star of Justice series, the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries and the Fen Maguire Mysteries. You can find out about his latest release at https://brucehammack.com/.
Follow him on social media at https://www.facebook.com/BruceHammack...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/bruce...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
July 12, 2023
Exercise is Murder (Smiley and McBlythe, #1) by Bruce Hammack
Synopsis /
Former Houston homicide detective Steve Smiley is faced with a dilemma. His college roommate, attorney Ned Logan, is found at the bottom of his exercise pool. The cops think it’s an accident. Steve’s instinct tells him it’s not. But how to prove it? He needs eyes…and a driver.
Heather McBlythe is starting over, again. She’s hoping she will be able to make it through the Police Academy and start her new life before her father’s minions find her. She meets Steve Smiley, an instructor at the Academy, and he presents an interesting proposition to her. When her father’s long arm of influence gets her kicked out of the Academy, Heather needs a place to hide. Smiley’s unorthodox proposition is the perfect answer.
Smiley and McBlythe team up to investigate the murder of Ned Logan. At every turn in the road, they unearth another secret. Who has motive enough for murder? Ned’s wife? His children? The business partner? When the killer takes a shot at Steve, they know they’re getting close. Can they unravel the myriad of secrets before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
How does a blind man solve a murder?
A very quick review from me on this short but incredibly well written cosy that you will want to read in one sitting.
A loud creak from a squeaking hinge interrupted the chatter of the room’s occupants. Into the classroom walked a dishevelled man, feeling his way with a white cane. The sweeping motions, like the slow wag of a dog’s tail, came with a light tap and scrape. He stopped briefly as the instructor announced, “This is retired homicide detective Steve Smiley. You can see on your syllabus that he’ll be teaching SKILLS OF OBSERVATION AND DEDUCTION. They’re all yours, Steve.” Who could imagine that a blind former cop would be teaching at the Academy, let alone a class dealing with observation?
Former homicide detective, Steve Smiley, lost both his wife and his sight in a random attack of violence. Finding it hard to give up on a life he lived and loved, Steve now lectures students at the Police Academy about the skills of observation and deduction. Recruit, Heather McBlythe has a whole set of academic skills she brings to the table, but currently, is just trying to escape the life of privilege and society engagements her father has planned for her.
Well, what a gem of a read this turned out to be. For those of you that follow along with my musings, you will recall that I often bang on about how some authors could benefit from shortening their novel works. In a total about face, I'm going to admit that on this occasion, I wish the book would have been longer. The author did a magnificent job configuring the mystery, its clues, and red herrings into such a short page count. Each of the characters were developed enough to keep you engaged. The dialogue is snappy and grabs your attention. You feel compelled to keep reading. The mystery itself is simplistic, but it's the characters for this reader that will keep me coming back to this series.
My only grumpy criticism is that, after reading and enjoying #1, I cannot for the life of me find copies of the remaining books in the series!
Synopsis /
Former Houston homicide detective Steve Smiley is faced with a dilemma. His college roommate, attorney Ned Logan, is found at the bottom of his exercise pool. The cops think it’s an accident. Steve’s instinct tells him it’s not. But how to prove it? He needs eyes…and a driver.
Heather McBlythe is starting over, again. She’s hoping she will be able to make it through the Police Academy and start her new life before her father’s minions find her. She meets Steve Smiley, an instructor at the Academy, and he presents an interesting proposition to her. When her father’s long arm of influence gets her kicked out of the Academy, Heather needs a place to hide. Smiley’s unorthodox proposition is the perfect answer.
Smiley and McBlythe team up to investigate the murder of Ned Logan. At every turn in the road, they unearth another secret. Who has motive enough for murder? Ned’s wife? His children? The business partner? When the killer takes a shot at Steve, they know they’re getting close. Can they unravel the myriad of secrets before the killer strikes again?
My Thoughts /
How does a blind man solve a murder?
A very quick review from me on this short but incredibly well written cosy that you will want to read in one sitting.
A loud creak from a squeaking hinge interrupted the chatter of the room’s occupants. Into the classroom walked a dishevelled man, feeling his way with a white cane. The sweeping motions, like the slow wag of a dog’s tail, came with a light tap and scrape. He stopped briefly as the instructor announced, “This is retired homicide detective Steve Smiley. You can see on your syllabus that he’ll be teaching SKILLS OF OBSERVATION AND DEDUCTION. They’re all yours, Steve.” Who could imagine that a blind former cop would be teaching at the Academy, let alone a class dealing with observation?
Former homicide detective, Steve Smiley, lost both his wife and his sight in a random attack of violence. Finding it hard to give up on a life he lived and loved, Steve now lectures students at the Police Academy about the skills of observation and deduction. Recruit, Heather McBlythe has a whole set of academic skills she brings to the table, but currently, is just trying to escape the life of privilege and society engagements her father has planned for her.
Well, what a gem of a read this turned out to be. For those of you that follow along with my musings, you will recall that I often bang on about how some authors could benefit from shortening their novel works. In a total about face, I'm going to admit that on this occasion, I wish the book would have been longer. The author did a magnificent job configuring the mystery, its clues, and red herrings into such a short page count. Each of the characters were developed enough to keep you engaged. The dialogue is snappy and grabs your attention. You feel compelled to keep reading. The mystery itself is simplistic, but it's the characters for this reader that will keep me coming back to this series.
My only grumpy criticism is that, after reading and enjoying #1, I cannot for the life of me find copies of the remaining books in the series!
August 22, 2022
Steve Smiley, former homicide detective, had lost his wife Maggie in the same attack which had cost him his sight, and now, with all his other senses on full alert, he knew the death of his college roommate and attorney, Ned Logan, was murder. While instructing at the Police Academy, he met up with Heather McBlythe who was trying to keep away from the long clutches of her father. Before long, Smiley and McBlythe had formed a partnership - first case - find Ned's killer.
Kate - Ned's wife - and their two children, Connor and Carey, were all different. They all had motive to kill their husband and father. But so did others. Would Smiley and McBlythe find who removed Ned from the scene? Would they be in danger doing so? Yes...
Exercise is Murder is #0.5 in the Smiley & McBlythe series by Bruce Hammack and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My first by this author and it won't be my last. With excellent characters to grace the story, and Max the aloof and sophisticated cat, I'm looking forward to #1 in the not too distant future. Highly recommended. (this one is free on Amazon ATM)
Kate - Ned's wife - and their two children, Connor and Carey, were all different. They all had motive to kill their husband and father. But so did others. Would Smiley and McBlythe find who removed Ned from the scene? Would they be in danger doing so? Yes...
Exercise is Murder is #0.5 in the Smiley & McBlythe series by Bruce Hammack and I thoroughly enjoyed it. My first by this author and it won't be my last. With excellent characters to grace the story, and Max the aloof and sophisticated cat, I'm looking forward to #1 in the not too distant future. Highly recommended. (this one is free on Amazon ATM)
May 3, 2022
Exercise is Murder by Bruce Hammack is a helluva fun murder mystery read. It is the first book in the Smiley and McBlythe mystery series. From the very introduction of the characters, there is a chemical dynamic that begins to effervesce, not necessarily romantic, but more like Holmes and Watson. One might be prone to believe that because Steve Smiley has lost his sight, he is forced to rely on his other senses to help him to readily distinguish the distinct aspects of a crime scene. Yet, he is teaching a class at the police academy that promotes a more holistic engagement of a cop's investigative skills. McBlythe has a whole set of academic skills that she also brings to the table, not to mention the fact that she is a gorgeous, blueblood. Together they investigate the murder of a former friend who is killed while exercising in his swimming pool. The mystery is not all that difficult to figure out because there are a limited number of red herrings; however, the joy comes from watching how each character deploys their various abilities and skill sets in order to get a resolution to the mystery that results in arrest. I am extremely impressed. I wished the novel would have been a little (maybe 50 pages) longer. Still and all, a great start to a series.
July 13, 2024
Book one in the Smiley McBlythe series and it’s a winner.
My first experience with author, Bruce Hammack, was with his Christmas title, (Jingle Bells and Rifle Shells), which was also an excellent read. Now I’ve gotten to go back and learn how this talented partnership got started.
Heather is from Boston elite, old money. She won’t fall in line with Daddy’s plan to marry money, merge families for profit and give birth to more leaves on the perpetual family tree. She did do the Ivy League school thing, doubling her majors in law and finance but only has a desire to be a cop and she’s good at it; really good. Daddy uses his considerable assets to foil her plans.
Steve is a seasoned detective with extraordinary abilities. As a consequence of a brutal beating in a parking garage, he loses his eyesight and his wife. With just the right assistance from Heather, he’s able to use his skills and together they form a crime solving partnership.
Fast paced and well written, this novella length mystery is free from foul language, sexual content and graphic violence. The who-done-it is very well hidden among the modest cast of potential suspects. You won’t need a score card to keep track of them.
Tinges of humor and a fat, lazy cat round out the family and invite you to investigate why EXERCISE IS MURDER📚
My first experience with author, Bruce Hammack, was with his Christmas title, (Jingle Bells and Rifle Shells), which was also an excellent read. Now I’ve gotten to go back and learn how this talented partnership got started.
Heather is from Boston elite, old money. She won’t fall in line with Daddy’s plan to marry money, merge families for profit and give birth to more leaves on the perpetual family tree. She did do the Ivy League school thing, doubling her majors in law and finance but only has a desire to be a cop and she’s good at it; really good. Daddy uses his considerable assets to foil her plans.
Steve is a seasoned detective with extraordinary abilities. As a consequence of a brutal beating in a parking garage, he loses his eyesight and his wife. With just the right assistance from Heather, he’s able to use his skills and together they form a crime solving partnership.
Fast paced and well written, this novella length mystery is free from foul language, sexual content and graphic violence. The who-done-it is very well hidden among the modest cast of potential suspects. You won’t need a score card to keep track of them.
Tinges of humor and a fat, lazy cat round out the family and invite you to investigate why EXERCISE IS MURDER📚
February 1, 2019
The author gave me an ARC of this book for an honest review, and I'm very glad he did. I don't read many mysteries, but I may have to rethink that after reading this unexpected gem. The author's law enforcement experience shines through in this fast-paced, witty story with realistic, flawed, yet relatable main characters, an unlikely team of detectives. Their banter reminds me of Bogey and Bacall, and Max the cat is a stroke of genius. From the opening scene, the snappy dialogue alone grabbed this reader and compelled me to keep reading, and the many suspects kept me guessing until the final showdown. This is an excellent read for mystery aficionados as well as newbies to the genre, and I'm looking forward to continuing this new series to return to the blind, anything-but-washed-up former Houston homicide detective Steve Smiley and his young brilliant partner Heather McBlythe (and her cat).
September 21, 2024
A blind detective and his affluent Watson meet and solve the mystery of a man found dead in his swimming pool.
Fairly easy to solve, the story does feature two likable protagonists.
Fairly easy to solve, the story does feature two likable protagonists.
August 1, 2024
Hammack invented two unique characters for his protagonists. Retired police detective Steve Smiley is blind and has tremendous observational skills. Because one of his closest friends from college has been found dead in his exercise pool under suspicious circumstances, he needs an assistant. Heather McBlythe is a rich girl cop with degrees in accounting and law whose father is trying to force into what he wants her to do. He gets Heather kicked out of the program for becoming an officer, so Heather takes on the role of Smiley's sidekick. The problem is that Smiley has too many suspects with motives for killing his friend.
The protagonists make the story fun, especially with the addition of Heather's cat. Smiley hates cats, but Heather needs a place to hide out from her father's detectives, and that means the cat does too. In exchange for asylum, Heather takes on Smiley's unusual work assignments.
Smiley, especially, is quirky and devious. Heather is a woman of many skills, including assuming roles at Smiley's request. If you're looking for a fun "whodunit," you might want to give Exercise Is Murder a try. No sex, no bad language, and only one violent attempt in the story itself.
The protagonists make the story fun, especially with the addition of Heather's cat. Smiley hates cats, but Heather needs a place to hide out from her father's detectives, and that means the cat does too. In exchange for asylum, Heather takes on Smiley's unusual work assignments.
Smiley, especially, is quirky and devious. Heather is a woman of many skills, including assuming roles at Smiley's request. If you're looking for a fun "whodunit," you might want to give Exercise Is Murder a try. No sex, no bad language, and only one violent attempt in the story itself.
March 17, 2024
Money kills
Fantastic crime story!! This is the second book I have read in the series and will definitely read more. I loved the characters and the way they handled the crimes.
It was interesting to read about how a blind detective could pursue the crime and investigate the piled up clues to reach his suspect list and solve the crime.
With his newly fun loving sidekick and friend Heather, who is also a previous detective, they get the job done and solve the case.
The story is evenly fast-paced with a multitude of twists and turns with never a dull moment through to the very end.
The author Bruce Hammack is an exceptional writer as he gained a passion for writing crime fiction from his previous experience in working in the criminal justice system.
Well, what else can I say? Great series and on to book 2.
Fantastic crime story!! This is the second book I have read in the series and will definitely read more. I loved the characters and the way they handled the crimes.
It was interesting to read about how a blind detective could pursue the crime and investigate the piled up clues to reach his suspect list and solve the crime.
With his newly fun loving sidekick and friend Heather, who is also a previous detective, they get the job done and solve the case.
The story is evenly fast-paced with a multitude of twists and turns with never a dull moment through to the very end.
The author Bruce Hammack is an exceptional writer as he gained a passion for writing crime fiction from his previous experience in working in the criminal justice system.
Well, what else can I say? Great series and on to book 2.
September 21, 2021
This was a quit read and a good page turner. I just wish I had more closure with the murderer at the end.
January 10, 2022
Good read
Believable characters and good story line - really enjoyable book with likable main characters. I will be reading more by this author.
Believable characters and good story line - really enjoyable book with likable main characters. I will be reading more by this author.
March 5, 2022
Interesting
Likeable characters and unique circumstances. It was interesting to watch the observation skills and backgrounds morph into a good work relationship.
Likeable characters and unique circumstances. It was interesting to watch the observation skills and backgrounds morph into a good work relationship.
December 20, 2023
While not listed as the first in the Smiley and McBlythe series, this is the origin of their meeting, and a good place to start with the characters.
March 23, 2023
Misaligned Partners
I read the reviews on this book after seeing it on Facebook. I was intrigued by the premise, so decided to give it a chance. The first couple of chapters grabbed me quick, especially the recruits' class. The story was better than average and the logic used by the "partners" was well developed. I loved the disguises and the interplay ofvthe characters. Even though I guessed the correct culprit, it was twisted another way, so I was only partially correct. A very good start to a series. A 4.0 out of 5 rating.
I read the reviews on this book after seeing it on Facebook. I was intrigued by the premise, so decided to give it a chance. The first couple of chapters grabbed me quick, especially the recruits' class. The story was better than average and the logic used by the "partners" was well developed. I loved the disguises and the interplay ofvthe characters. Even though I guessed the correct culprit, it was twisted another way, so I was only partially correct. A very good start to a series. A 4.0 out of 5 rating.
January 13, 2024
Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe become the odd couple in this detective novel.
Steve is blind, but because of his detailed law enforcement background before he was blinded, his abilities to "see" what even sighted people can't make him an invaluable asset to their partnership.
Heather had been a cop, and a good one. But her father had other plans for her which forced her out of any law enforcement position, no matter where. But Steve saw tremendous potential in Heather and needed a sighted partner to "show" him what she sees.
In this prequel to the Smiley and McBythe series, Steve's college roommate was found dead in his exercise pool.
Steve has an ability to see color when murder is involved which was proof enough that Ned Logan didn’t die accidentally.
Heather and Steve set out to prove that, and find the killer.
Not a faith-filled series like Star of Justice series, but still, very clean.
Very, very good story.
Steve is blind, but because of his detailed law enforcement background before he was blinded, his abilities to "see" what even sighted people can't make him an invaluable asset to their partnership.
Heather had been a cop, and a good one. But her father had other plans for her which forced her out of any law enforcement position, no matter where. But Steve saw tremendous potential in Heather and needed a sighted partner to "show" him what she sees.
In this prequel to the Smiley and McBythe series, Steve's college roommate was found dead in his exercise pool.
Steve has an ability to see color when murder is involved which was proof enough that Ned Logan didn’t die accidentally.
Heather and Steve set out to prove that, and find the killer.
Not a faith-filled series like Star of Justice series, but still, very clean.
Very, very good story.
March 11, 2020
Exercise Is Murder is the first book in the "A Smiley and McBlythe Mystery" series and is a terrific start to this series.
I loved this short story about Steve Smiley, a blind ex-police detective, his driver and partner in investigations, Heather McBlythe, and Max the cat. The characters are interesting and make a great team. The storyline is well written and engaging, with murder, motive galore, twists, suspense, and intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this short story about Steve Smiley, a blind ex-police detective, his driver and partner in investigations, Heather McBlythe, and Max the cat. The characters are interesting and make a great team. The storyline is well written and engaging, with murder, motive galore, twists, suspense, and intrigue.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2022
Awesome
As I was reading the book I was hoping it was the beginning of a series. My hope has been realized. I can hardly wait to purchase the continuing story of the partnership. The real bonus of any of Bruce Hammack books is that they are clean reads. Zero profanity, zero sexual thoughts, scenes or situations and zero violance. Please note that I did not write no or very little. Zero is the word.
Thank you Bruce Hammack for your professional journalism and creative mind. Your books prove you can have a clean, pure creative mind.
As I was reading the book I was hoping it was the beginning of a series. My hope has been realized. I can hardly wait to purchase the continuing story of the partnership. The real bonus of any of Bruce Hammack books is that they are clean reads. Zero profanity, zero sexual thoughts, scenes or situations and zero violance. Please note that I did not write no or very little. Zero is the word.
Thank you Bruce Hammack for your professional journalism and creative mind. Your books prove you can have a clean, pure creative mind.
January 9, 2023
Great story, minimal mistakes
Unique murder mystery solved by a blind retired detective and a Biston blue blood fleeing her father's attempts to control her life by forcing her to give up police work and take the position in society which her wealth suits her for. Lots of characters, but they are easy to keep track of. The culprits were satisfyingly evil enough that the reader feels no regrets at the ending, which also includes justice and good results for the victim's family members.
Unique murder mystery solved by a blind retired detective and a Biston blue blood fleeing her father's attempts to control her life by forcing her to give up police work and take the position in society which her wealth suits her for. Lots of characters, but they are easy to keep track of. The culprits were satisfyingly evil enough that the reader feels no regrets at the ending, which also includes justice and good results for the victim's family members.
March 24, 2022
A short but well written mystery with a savvy setup and resolution. The dialogue was fun and refreshing. I very much enjoyed the working partnership and developing friendship between Smiley and McBlythe. Will I be reading the other entries in this series? Yes.
December 18, 2022
Loved it
This was a great story. Short, but perfect for the story. Love Steve and Heather and can't wait to read more of their adventures.
This was a great story. Short, but perfect for the story. Love Steve and Heather and can't wait to read more of their adventures.
January 3, 2023
Entertaining
This murder mystery will keep you guessing. There are several suspects with viable motives and opportunities but which one is guilty.
This murder mystery will keep you guessing. There are several suspects with viable motives and opportunities but which one is guilty.
January 4, 2023
Great story
The introduction of how Smiley and Heather met and became partners is full of great characters and plot. Imaginative and clever.
The introduction of how Smiley and Heather met and became partners is full of great characters and plot. Imaginative and clever.
November 15, 2023
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series:
Exercise Is Murder, prequel - An interesting and immersing introduction to Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe
and their beginnings. Recommend reading this first. 4*
Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells, 1 - Interesting and immersing easy read with a steady pace, good story lines, good characters and good values made this a hard to put down read. Recommend reading the prequel, Exercise is Murder first. 5*
Murder In The Dunes, #4 - Difficult to put down with its steady pace, easy to read writing style and good characters and story lines. 5*
Murder Down The Line, #6 - This is an enjoyable, entertaining series. I like the main characters, the well thought out story lines, and the processes to solve the crimes. Two crimes and a surprise made for a hard to put down read but the pages flew by rapidly. Source: BookSirens. 5*
A Beach to Die For, #8 - While still an interesting story, it was missing something. I had a hard time, here and there, keeping my interest in the story. Good characters and story lines, but an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
Mistletoe, Malice And Murder, #9 - Interesting but too easy to figure out the murderer. Good story lines with humor and good characters. Source: BookSirens. 4*
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series end.
Exercise Is Murder, prequel - An interesting and immersing introduction to Steve Smiley and Heather McBlythe
and their beginnings. Recommend reading this first. 4*
Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells, 1 - Interesting and immersing easy read with a steady pace, good story lines, good characters and good values made this a hard to put down read. Recommend reading the prequel, Exercise is Murder first. 5*
Murder In The Dunes, #4 - Difficult to put down with its steady pace, easy to read writing style and good characters and story lines. 5*
Murder Down The Line, #6 - This is an enjoyable, entertaining series. I like the main characters, the well thought out story lines, and the processes to solve the crimes. Two crimes and a surprise made for a hard to put down read but the pages flew by rapidly. Source: BookSirens. 5*
A Beach to Die For, #8 - While still an interesting story, it was missing something. I had a hard time, here and there, keeping my interest in the story. Good characters and story lines, but an average read. Source: BookSirens. 3*
Mistletoe, Malice And Murder, #9 - Interesting but too easy to figure out the murderer. Good story lines with humor and good characters. Source: BookSirens. 4*
The Smiley and McBlythe Mystery Series end.
November 26, 2023
Heather McBlythe, 29, is the heiress to a multi-million dollar fortune but she's down to her last $100.
The reason is her father who has cut her off without a cent because she refused to work in the family business and opted to become a cop instead.
He managed to get her thrown off the Boston police force and she's starting over at Houston Police Academy.
It's there that she meets retired detective Steve Smiley, occasional lecturer in Skills of Observation and Deduction.
Occasional because he is blind after being assaulted two year earlier – his wife was killed.
What he lacks in sight he more than makes up for using his other senses to understand the world around him.
When dear old dad gets her dismissed from the Police Academy she takes up an offer from Steve to help him investigate the death of his closest friend.
Rather than Sherlock and Watson it is more a case of Sherlock and Sherlock with both Heather and Steve complementing each other.
It clocked in at 103 pages, each one solidly crafted and nicely written.
The murder mystery is solid, if not innovative, and the investigation is believable.
Both Heather and Steve come across as real people but, in my opinion, the star of the book was the wonderful Pat Beerhalter (you'll have to read the book to find out why).
“Exercise is Murder” merits a very solid 4 Stars.
The reason is her father who has cut her off without a cent because she refused to work in the family business and opted to become a cop instead.
He managed to get her thrown off the Boston police force and she's starting over at Houston Police Academy.
It's there that she meets retired detective Steve Smiley, occasional lecturer in Skills of Observation and Deduction.
Occasional because he is blind after being assaulted two year earlier – his wife was killed.
What he lacks in sight he more than makes up for using his other senses to understand the world around him.
When dear old dad gets her dismissed from the Police Academy she takes up an offer from Steve to help him investigate the death of his closest friend.
Rather than Sherlock and Watson it is more a case of Sherlock and Sherlock with both Heather and Steve complementing each other.
It clocked in at 103 pages, each one solidly crafted and nicely written.
The murder mystery is solid, if not innovative, and the investigation is believable.
Both Heather and Steve come across as real people but, in my opinion, the star of the book was the wonderful Pat Beerhalter (you'll have to read the book to find out why).
“Exercise is Murder” merits a very solid 4 Stars.
September 8, 2022
Blind detective Steve Smiley is teaching a class at the Police academy on "Observational Skills" which for a police office can be of vital importance in "reading" people during any police encounter! During that class there is one stand out student, Heather McBlythe!
The challenge that Steve is dealing with, is how, who and why someone murdered his friend Nat. Though its been classified as a terrible accident, Smiley doesn't believe it! That's why he enlists the help of Heather, who can be his eyes to find out the truth and give Nat and his family closure and justice!
I've read several others books in the Smiley and McBlythe series, and can honestly say they are well written, and truly enjoyable. Bonus points for the fact that there is no foul language, smut, sex, etc.
I want to thank the author, Bruce Hammack for the opportunity to read this book. This review is given freely and is my own opinion
The challenge that Steve is dealing with, is how, who and why someone murdered his friend Nat. Though its been classified as a terrible accident, Smiley doesn't believe it! That's why he enlists the help of Heather, who can be his eyes to find out the truth and give Nat and his family closure and justice!
I've read several others books in the Smiley and McBlythe series, and can honestly say they are well written, and truly enjoyable. Bonus points for the fact that there is no foul language, smut, sex, etc.
I want to thank the author, Bruce Hammack for the opportunity to read this book. This review is given freely and is my own opinion
February 28, 2026
This is the first book in the Smiley and McBlythe Mysteries by Bruce Hammack. Steve Smiley is a former Houston homicide detective turned private investigator who lost his sight in the line of duty. Smiley's lawyer friend Ned Logan is found dead at the bottom of an exercise pool and the police rule it as an accident. Smiley teams up with Heather McBlythe, a rookie homicide detective with Boston PD. Smiley and Heather investigate Ned's complicated personal and professional life, uncovering motives among his wife, children, and business partner. As they uncover clues, danger closes in and they realize they're on the right track when they become targets after a bullet misses them, confirming that Ned's death was no accident. This captivating story of a blind former homicide detective who doesn't let his disability stop him from uncovering the truth, and a rookie detective partnership makes a compelling detective duo. This crime thriller gripped me from start to finish.
December 9, 2022
Heather McBlythe wasn't expecting to gain a business partner the day that Steve Smiley gave a lecture to her class at the Police Academy, but their dynamic was undeniable. Steve's blindness occasionally required sighted help and Heather's problem necessitated Steve's assistance. When Steve's college roommate is found dead in his lap pool, the two work together to solve a nefarious deed.
Both of the main characters are immensely likeable. Of course, they have their strengths and weaknesses, but for the most part, they already feel like friends. While the solution wasn't blatantly telegraphed in advance, the mystery itself was simplistic. I appreciate this as it lent the crucial time required to establish the partnership's collaboration.
Exercise is Murder is a terrific introduction to this series.
Both of the main characters are immensely likeable. Of course, they have their strengths and weaknesses, but for the most part, they already feel like friends. While the solution wasn't blatantly telegraphed in advance, the mystery itself was simplistic. I appreciate this as it lent the crucial time required to establish the partnership's collaboration.
Exercise is Murder is a terrific introduction to this series.
September 30, 2026
After listening to the thirteenth book in Bruce Hammack's Smiley and McBlythe mystery series, my husband and I found the novella prequel in our Kindle library. It was nice learning how the blind former police detective and the wealthy attorney became close friends, housemates, and private investigators. In spite of the novella length of this mystery, Hammack was able to flesh out the mystery of the murder of an old friend of retired homicide detective Steve Smiley. The Columbo style ending with all of the suspects gathered in one place came naturally and did not feel rushed. The humorous banter between Smiley and McBlythe adds to the pleasure of reading, or listening, to the story. I would recommend this book to anyone seeking a quick, quirky read. I am grateful to have received this book when it was offered for free on Amazon. The publisher is Jubilee Publishing.
April 24, 2021
As a member of several ARC teams and the opportunity to read volumes of novels, this story is one of the best so far.
A great story about a former detective forced into retirement after a robbery and assault that left him blinded and wife killed teaming up with a new partner for private investigating.
The plot involves solving the suspicious death of a close friend while navigating through the working relationship with his new partner and her playful cat. The banter and dialogue between characters are crisp, fast-pace, meaningful, yet humorous and not contrived.
I find it interesting that lessons in retribution, recompense, and lessons in responsibility were woven in the story.
I look forward to additional sequels and adventures of this new private investigating team.
A great story about a former detective forced into retirement after a robbery and assault that left him blinded and wife killed teaming up with a new partner for private investigating.
The plot involves solving the suspicious death of a close friend while navigating through the working relationship with his new partner and her playful cat. The banter and dialogue between characters are crisp, fast-pace, meaningful, yet humorous and not contrived.
I find it interesting that lessons in retribution, recompense, and lessons in responsibility were woven in the story.
I look forward to additional sequels and adventures of this new private investigating team.
September 1, 2022
This is the first novel in the Smiley and McBlyth mystery series and explains how Smiley, a blind ex-homicide detective, and Heather McBlyth, an attorney and ex-cop, got together in the first place and formed a private investigation agency. I have read and reviewed positively several of the later books in the series. Although this one was not as highly ranked as the others, I enjoyed it as it explained a lot that occurred in later installments. Suffice it to say it was a very good mystery and I highly recommend this mystery series.
Thank you to BookSirens for introducing me to this author and to the author for the free copy of this book. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed herein are my own.
Thank you to BookSirens for introducing me to this author and to the author for the free copy of this book. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed herein are my own.
August 4, 2024
After being introduced to Fen and Bailey, I realized I had Smiley and McBlythe in my library to read too. I'm so happy I did. These two crack me up. My favorite scenes involve Max, Heather's furry companion that Steve was adamant he hated. Yet, he found himself giving the boy some well deserved pets.
Heather and Steve make a fantastic duo. From dressing up to go undercover to their back and fourth banter. Heather needed Steve to help get out from under her father's thumb. Steve needed help getting around on his day by day needs. They were equally suitable for another. I enjoyed every moment of it.
As usual I was surprised at the ending.
SPOILER:
Sunny I could've seen. She shows typical gold digger tendencies. I didn't remember the lawn guy's name but I didn't suspect a team. It makes sense that these two were in on it together. After the money neither of them could make on their own. Shameful but not unheard of. Thank god for Steve and Heather (and Max).
Heather and Steve make a fantastic duo. From dressing up to go undercover to their back and fourth banter. Heather needed Steve to help get out from under her father's thumb. Steve needed help getting around on his day by day needs. They were equally suitable for another. I enjoyed every moment of it.
As usual I was surprised at the ending.
SPOILER:
Sunny I could've seen. She shows typical gold digger tendencies. I didn't remember the lawn guy's name but I didn't suspect a team. It makes sense that these two were in on it together. After the money neither of them could make on their own. Shameful but not unheard of. Thank god for Steve and Heather (and Max).
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