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Mahu #5
Mahu Blood
Mahu Blood begins on Hawai’i Statehood Day in August, about ten months after the action of Mahu Vice. Statehood is a controversial issue in Hawai’i, because many native Hawaiians perceive the United States as an occupying force that overthrew a sovereign monarchy in 1892.
Kimo and his partner, Ray Donne, are on duty at a rally in downtown Honolulu organized by Kingdom of Hawai’i, one of many competing groups which seek reparations from the US for the loss of land and independence. An elderly woman is shot dead there, only a few feet from where Kimo’s mother and nephews are taking part in the demonstration, and Kimo and Ray take the case.
At the same time, Kimo’s dealing with domestic difficulties, having just moved in with Mike Riccardi. Since both are alpha males, the transition to shared living space isn’t easy, especially because Mike’s parents live next door.
As Kimo and Mike struggle to adapt to living together, they begin to forge their own ohana—a Hawaiian term which means family, as well as community. The theme of ohana resonates through both Kimo’s personal life and his investigation of the murder as Kimo and Ray follow clues through a labyrinth of competing groups, uncovering a trail of gambling, money laundering, and mental illness.
Kimo and his partner, Ray Donne, are on duty at a rally in downtown Honolulu organized by Kingdom of Hawai’i, one of many competing groups which seek reparations from the US for the loss of land and independence. An elderly woman is shot dead there, only a few feet from where Kimo’s mother and nephews are taking part in the demonstration, and Kimo and Ray take the case.
At the same time, Kimo’s dealing with domestic difficulties, having just moved in with Mike Riccardi. Since both are alpha males, the transition to shared living space isn’t easy, especially because Mike’s parents live next door.
As Kimo and Mike struggle to adapt to living together, they begin to forge their own ohana—a Hawaiian term which means family, as well as community. The theme of ohana resonates through both Kimo’s personal life and his investigation of the murder as Kimo and Ray follow clues through a labyrinth of competing groups, uncovering a trail of gambling, money laundering, and mental illness.
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First published February 27, 2011
51 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Neil S. Plakcy
235 books650 followersI have been a voracious reader all my life, mostly in mystery, romance, and science fiction/fantasy, though a college degree in English did push a lot of literary works into my list of favorites.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
Quick note: sign up for my newsletter at plakcy.substack.com to get free prologues, epilogues and short stories.
I began writing seriously in high school after an inspiring assignment with A Separate Peace by John Knowles. I didn't know I was gay then, but I knew I was longing for an emotional connection with a best friend. That desire shows up across my writing, from romance to mystery to adventure. I am lucky to have found my special person, and I want to inspire readers to make those connections, to one person or a found family.
It took getting an MFA in creative writing to kick-start my career. That's where I honed my technical skills and began to understand what kind of storyteller I am.
I remember reading Freddie the Detective about a very smart pig inspired by Sherlock Holmes. I’ve always believed that dogs make the best detectives. They notice what humans miss — a faint scent, a subtle shift in body language, the hidden treat in your pocket. That belief inspired my Golden Retriever Mysteries, where Rochester helps his human, Steve Levitan, nose out the truth.
My passion is telling stories where community, loyalty, and sometimes love solve problems just as much as clues do. Whether it’s a cozy mystery in Bucks County, a thriller on the streets of Miami, or a romance unfolding under the Mediterranean sun, I want readers to feel the heartbeat of the place and the people.
I write because stories helped me feel less alone growing up, and now I want to give readers that same feeling: a companion, a puzzle, and maybe a laugh.
When I’m not writing, I’m probably walking one of my own goldens, teaching writing, or daydreaming about my next story.
Since then I've written dozens of books, won a couple of treasured awards, and enjoyed the support of readers.
Every place I’ve lived has made its way into my fiction: the rolling hills of Bucks County, the neon heat of Miami, the beaches of Hawaii, the cobbled streets of Europe. I love exploring how communities work — from a café where dogs guide healing, to a fraternity house in South Beach, to a police unit in Honolulu.
My goal is simple: to write stories that feel grounded in real people and real places, but with enough twists, romance, or danger to keep you turning pages late into the night.
I hope you'll visit my website, where you can sign up for my occasional newsletter, and also follow my author page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 28, 2017
When I first began writing the Mahu series, I made a conscious effort to establish him as having enough Hawaiian blood to qualify for the programs offered to native Hawaiians. That meant being 50% native, which I accomplished by giving both his parents enough native ancestry.
But that characteristic didn't begin to feature until I began thinking about the book that would eventually become Mahu Blood. I was fascinated by the Hawaiian nationalist movement, and the way in which native Hawaiians aren't treated the way other native American groups are, with land set aside for them.
Land is incredibly valuable in Hawaii-- and much of it belonged to the Hawaiian nation before it was confiscated by the US. What if the government agreed to some kind of reparations-- who would get that money? What would they do to ensure they were the recipients?
The situation becomes personal for Kimo because his mother volunteers with one of the nationalist groups. She is fifty percent Hawaiian herself-- but her grandchildren aren't, and she wants to do what she can to protect their inheritance. That puts her at risk-- and Kimo doesn't like that one bit!
But that characteristic didn't begin to feature until I began thinking about the book that would eventually become Mahu Blood. I was fascinated by the Hawaiian nationalist movement, and the way in which native Hawaiians aren't treated the way other native American groups are, with land set aside for them.
Land is incredibly valuable in Hawaii-- and much of it belonged to the Hawaiian nation before it was confiscated by the US. What if the government agreed to some kind of reparations-- who would get that money? What would they do to ensure they were the recipients?
The situation becomes personal for Kimo because his mother volunteers with one of the nationalist groups. She is fifty percent Hawaiian herself-- but her grandchildren aren't, and she wants to do what she can to protect their inheritance. That puts her at risk-- and Kimo doesn't like that one bit!
May 3, 2011
This is a great addition to the Mahu series. The mix of mystery and romance is satisfying, the characters are becoming more complex and well-rounded with each book, and I really liked seeing more of some of the secondary characters, and especially Mike. This book could stand alone, but I strongly recommend beginning the series at the beginning with Mahu, and reading in order. The character and his relationships grow and develop through the books and some of the pleasure of reading this one is to reconnect with old friends.
September 13, 2019
Good addition
4 ⭐️
Reread
Good addition to the series. Even though I’ve read this one before, I don’t remember much about it.
I enjoyed the case and felt that the author did a good job of portraying how frustrating it can be to work on cases like this where nothing connects. It felt like it took a while for everything to be laid out and at times it felt like the book moved really slowly, it then it took off and I couldn’t stop reading.
I liked the portrayal of Kimo and Mike’s relationship, it was frustrating but also very honest. When moving in together there is always a period of adjustment when habits of the partner annoy you, and this was done very well.
Looking forward to seeing where the next one leads.
4 ⭐️
Reread
Good addition to the series. Even though I’ve read this one before, I don’t remember much about it.
I enjoyed the case and felt that the author did a good job of portraying how frustrating it can be to work on cases like this where nothing connects. It felt like it took a while for everything to be laid out and at times it felt like the book moved really slowly, it then it took off and I couldn’t stop reading.
I liked the portrayal of Kimo and Mike’s relationship, it was frustrating but also very honest. When moving in together there is always a period of adjustment when habits of the partner annoy you, and this was done very well.
Looking forward to seeing where the next one leads.
March 30, 2021
Kimo is settling in to domestic bliss with Mike when he is caught up in a shooting at a parade.
I really enjoy how the author weaves the story until you get to the conclusion. I am hopeless and never really decide on the killer until the big reveal.
I really enjoy how the author weaves the story until you get to the conclusion. I am hopeless and never really decide on the killer until the big reveal.
January 1, 2013
I really like the Mahu series. Mahu Blood is the sixth book in the series and finds Kimo in an established relationship with his partner Mike Riccardi. This story focuses on a complex mystery involving different groups that are campaigning for Hawaiian independence. The story combines mystery, history and Hawaiian culture, as well as personal relationships and family, and brings everything into one rich mix.
I found the ins and out of the mystery and the history a bit difficult to follow in some places, but I still loved the story. I also liked seeing how Kimo balanced his new living arrangements and being part of an established couple with work and his family life. I loved seeing the dynamics of his relationships with his brothers as he makes a surprising discovery about Lui his eldest brother.
The book still manages to convey the essence and magic of Hawaii which is something I find really attractive having been there myself. Six books later this is still a great series, with rich characters and rich stories.
I found the ins and out of the mystery and the history a bit difficult to follow in some places, but I still loved the story. I also liked seeing how Kimo balanced his new living arrangements and being part of an established couple with work and his family life. I loved seeing the dynamics of his relationships with his brothers as he makes a surprising discovery about Lui his eldest brother.
The book still manages to convey the essence and magic of Hawaii which is something I find really attractive having been there myself. Six books later this is still a great series, with rich characters and rich stories.
September 1, 2011
The latest book in Mahu series is a bit MEH for me. First, I'm not such a huge fan of a long descriptive history; so the whole explanation about the royalty blood is a bit boring. ALTHOUGH, I'm sure fans of history will love it. Second, the relationship of Kimo and Mike is only touched in the background and it comes as a bit repetitive (Kimo thinking if moving in with Mike is a mistake, they kiss, they fight, they make up).
But the ending is indeed beautiful, and this is like getting an update from a friend who lives there in Hawaii, so it shouldn't be missed if you love Kimo and his family :).
But the ending is indeed beautiful, and this is like getting an update from a friend who lives there in Hawaii, so it shouldn't be missed if you love Kimo and his family :).
November 14, 2019
Mahu Blood is particularly hard to review.
The ongoing relationship between the two principal characters, Kimo Kanapa'aka, a Honolulu homicide detective, and Mike Riccardi, a fire investigator, continues to develop in a satisfying manner. As does the continuing development throughout the series of Kimo’s family, Mike’s family, their friends, and their professional colleagues. The murders and the solution are also well thought through.
What was problematic for me was much of the unusual dialect and jargon of a few of the characters central to the plot, and the amount of space devoted to descriptions of what what actually being meant by what those characters were saying. For me, that was distracting.
Still, I look forward to reading the next book in the Mahu Investigation series.
The ongoing relationship between the two principal characters, Kimo Kanapa'aka, a Honolulu homicide detective, and Mike Riccardi, a fire investigator, continues to develop in a satisfying manner. As does the continuing development throughout the series of Kimo’s family, Mike’s family, their friends, and their professional colleagues. The murders and the solution are also well thought through.
What was problematic for me was much of the unusual dialect and jargon of a few of the characters central to the plot, and the amount of space devoted to descriptions of what what actually being meant by what those characters were saying. For me, that was distracting.
Still, I look forward to reading the next book in the Mahu Investigation series.
November 18, 2024
Mahu Blood continues the story of Kimo Kanapa'aka, HPD investigator in beautiful O'ahu, where he is thrust inro a thrilling and thought-provoking exploration of identity -- both personal and the national identity of the Hawaiian people. The book also looks into the ways that people come together to support one another, and the obstacles (or people) who can get in the way of that. We see a progression in the relationship of Kimo and Mike, as well as shifts in their relationships with others as new knowledge comes to light.
Neil Plakcy does a brilliant job, as always, of creating a compelling story and taking us for a journey through it, never entirely giving away where it's leading, keeping us guessing as it zeroes in on its conclusion. Its fast pace and multiple facets make it a real gripping read. I'm hooked on this series!
Neil Plakcy does a brilliant job, as always, of creating a compelling story and taking us for a journey through it, never entirely giving away where it's leading, keeping us guessing as it zeroes in on its conclusion. Its fast pace and multiple facets make it a real gripping read. I'm hooked on this series!
November 22, 2021
I don't know how these are classed as "cozy mysteries" - or if my indexing simply failed. I'd class them as police procedurals. They're good mysteries, heavy on the drudgery of police work, and pleasantly full of solid character interactions.
If Plakcy occasionally uses a sentence or two he's used in a previous book, particularly for description, he can be forgiven. If he wants to add enough sex scenes to classify the books as "gay mysteries", that's fine too. I can skip it as I would in any other good book with too much sex. MOST skillfully advance the story. Which I guess is obvious, or I wouldn't have spent the last week plus on the first five in the series.
If Plakcy occasionally uses a sentence or two he's used in a previous book, particularly for description, he can be forgiven. If he wants to add enough sex scenes to classify the books as "gay mysteries", that's fine too. I can skip it as I would in any other good book with too much sex. MOST skillfully advance the story. Which I guess is obvious, or I wouldn't have spent the last week plus on the first five in the series.
February 13, 2023
Mahu Blood is another strong entry in this series. I think what I most appreciate about the Mahu series is how Hawaii itself - the land and its cultures - is integral to the plots. I liked the mystery (although I occasionally felt like yelling at Kimo when I thought he was missing something) and I'm still not 100% convinced that Mike is the best he can do, but those flaws aside I definitely enjoyed the book. Happily, I have many more book in the series to look forward to.
June 1, 2021
I find Kimo to be such an interesting character and he has grown so much since the first book. The case that he is working on in this story is interesting and full of all kinds of twists and turns. We also get to see Mike and Kimo working on their relationship. Once again, I enjoyed this book and will definitely be continuing the story.
May 11, 2018
Another enjoyable mystery novel from Neil Plakcy.
March 6, 2020
3.75*
March 5, 2021
Mr Plakcy. Get a new editor.
August 1, 2021
I liked this one. I like how the series is taking you through the relationship ups and downs in a realistic way.
April 24, 2022
I'm enjoying the Mahu series. A friend discovered Plakcy's dog series & recommended that, but I found Kimo's tales and prefer those more. I'll be starting some of the other series once I'm done with these. Book Number 5 is a good read, as they all have been.
Hawaiian police detective Kimo Kanapa'aka (who happens to be gay) is working crowd control at a demonstration for native Hawaiian rights when he sees a flash from a rooftop & shots ring out. An elderly woman is killed--only a few feet away from where Kimo's own mother was marching! Was it just bad luck for the old lady, or was it deliberately aimed at her alone?
Kimo also has to deal with a new phase of his relationship with fire investigator Mike Riccardi, as they try living together--in a duplex with his parents in the other half! It's a tough book for Kimo as he deals with his mother's possible danger, the stress of moving in with his lover, and an increasingly baffling murder case.
Plakcy not only keeps all the threads of the story moving right along, but he keeps the suspense and tension high throughout. He's definitely a master mystery writer and I'm looking forward to Book Number 6.
Hawaiian police detective Kimo Kanapa'aka (who happens to be gay) is working crowd control at a demonstration for native Hawaiian rights when he sees a flash from a rooftop & shots ring out. An elderly woman is killed--only a few feet away from where Kimo's own mother was marching! Was it just bad luck for the old lady, or was it deliberately aimed at her alone?
Kimo also has to deal with a new phase of his relationship with fire investigator Mike Riccardi, as they try living together--in a duplex with his parents in the other half! It's a tough book for Kimo as he deals with his mother's possible danger, the stress of moving in with his lover, and an increasingly baffling murder case.
Plakcy not only keeps all the threads of the story moving right along, but he keeps the suspense and tension high throughout. He's definitely a master mystery writer and I'm looking forward to Book Number 6.
September 21, 2011
I had no idea that I was actually capable of falling even more in love with Kimo Kanapa'aka than I already do but he (and Neil Plakcy) proved me wrong. I am also glad to be proven wrong because what I end up with is my favorite Mahu book of all.
I have no criticism at all for this book. Maybe I'm clouded by my silly crush for Plakcy's main character but I seriously can't find anything that I dislike from the book.
First, there's the murder that Kimo and his partner, Ray Donne, had to solve. Then there were two more murder cases that just fell into their laps, which added even more layers to an already puzzling mystery that I couldn't figure out right off the bat. As if that's not enough, there are two shootouts happening and an FBI raid of an illegal gambling operation for extra thrill factor. Add a dash of Kimo/Ray bantering bromance and their relationship with Lieutenant Sampson, you get a story that will knock your socks off. Amazing job from the author working all of that in - I am officially impressed.
Second, there's also Kimo's private life that's not only progressing well but also progressing realistically and hilariously. Kimo and Mike Ricardi are definitely one of my favorite couples in ANY genre and I always root for them. But to see them now live together and struggle with that is positively delightful. I love Kimo's observations about Mike's habits and how irked he was over trivial things. I love his little fights with Mike and how much of a jerk they both are to each other. I love that their problems with each other this time are not overly dramatic or angst-ridden, but small, annoying and domestic. It's like seeing an old married couple, which is what I'd hoped Kimo and Mike would be. This might be wrong for me to do but I giggled a lot whenever Mike and Kimo are together in any part of the book. It's so sweet to see them try to compromise. I don't think they got it right yet even in the end, but they're so perfect together because of that.
Third, between this series and Hawaii Five-0, I really want to go visit the island now. I don't know about you but I find myself interested in Hawaii's overall history thanks to this book that was chock full of details of the Hawaiian 'monarchy'. I went on Google right after finishing the book to find out more about the old kings and queens of Hawaii that were mentioned in the story. One thing that I've always admired from the Plakcy is how well-researched he is. I know his story is fiction, but a well-research book always has more credibility than ones that are not. That's probably why I'm always eager to read the Mahu series, because it never dumbs me down. It has always been able to enrich my general knowledge. If I may be so bold as to make a suggestion to the state of Hawaii and its tourism board, use this book as a way to promote the island. I'd totally buy into the marketing and visit Hawaii in a heartbeat.
This is such a pleasant book to read. I finished it right before I watched the first episode of Season 2 of CBS' Hawaii Five-0 starring Alex O'Loughlin, Scott Caan, Daniel Dae-Kim, Grace Park and Masi Oka. That show is brilliant - it's mindlessly fun and highly entertaining as well as being deliciously twisted and endlessly surprising - and it's become my favorite cop show this year. Mahu Blood is a lot more humble, more down-to-earth and grounded in execution. But these two things, read and watched back-to-back, become a recipe for a wonderful day. If I ever need entertainment, I can't think of anything better than the show and Mahu Blood together.
(And now I think I will start indulging my fangirl fantasies by crossing H50 and Mahu. Hey, a girl can dream, right? Well, my dream consists of Kimo and Ray joining a Five-0 investigation and working together with Steve, Danno & the others.)
I'll say it again: This book is genius. I'm in love with this book and Kimo. I want more.
I have no criticism at all for this book. Maybe I'm clouded by my silly crush for Plakcy's main character but I seriously can't find anything that I dislike from the book.
First, there's the murder that Kimo and his partner, Ray Donne, had to solve. Then there were two more murder cases that just fell into their laps, which added even more layers to an already puzzling mystery that I couldn't figure out right off the bat. As if that's not enough, there are two shootouts happening and an FBI raid of an illegal gambling operation for extra thrill factor. Add a dash of Kimo/Ray bantering bromance and their relationship with Lieutenant Sampson, you get a story that will knock your socks off. Amazing job from the author working all of that in - I am officially impressed.
Second, there's also Kimo's private life that's not only progressing well but also progressing realistically and hilariously. Kimo and Mike Ricardi are definitely one of my favorite couples in ANY genre and I always root for them. But to see them now live together and struggle with that is positively delightful. I love Kimo's observations about Mike's habits and how irked he was over trivial things. I love his little fights with Mike and how much of a jerk they both are to each other. I love that their problems with each other this time are not overly dramatic or angst-ridden, but small, annoying and domestic. It's like seeing an old married couple, which is what I'd hoped Kimo and Mike would be. This might be wrong for me to do but I giggled a lot whenever Mike and Kimo are together in any part of the book. It's so sweet to see them try to compromise. I don't think they got it right yet even in the end, but they're so perfect together because of that.
Third, between this series and Hawaii Five-0, I really want to go visit the island now. I don't know about you but I find myself interested in Hawaii's overall history thanks to this book that was chock full of details of the Hawaiian 'monarchy'. I went on Google right after finishing the book to find out more about the old kings and queens of Hawaii that were mentioned in the story. One thing that I've always admired from the Plakcy is how well-researched he is. I know his story is fiction, but a well-research book always has more credibility than ones that are not. That's probably why I'm always eager to read the Mahu series, because it never dumbs me down. It has always been able to enrich my general knowledge. If I may be so bold as to make a suggestion to the state of Hawaii and its tourism board, use this book as a way to promote the island. I'd totally buy into the marketing and visit Hawaii in a heartbeat.
This is such a pleasant book to read. I finished it right before I watched the first episode of Season 2 of CBS' Hawaii Five-0 starring Alex O'Loughlin, Scott Caan, Daniel Dae-Kim, Grace Park and Masi Oka. That show is brilliant - it's mindlessly fun and highly entertaining as well as being deliciously twisted and endlessly surprising - and it's become my favorite cop show this year. Mahu Blood is a lot more humble, more down-to-earth and grounded in execution. But these two things, read and watched back-to-back, become a recipe for a wonderful day. If I ever need entertainment, I can't think of anything better than the show and Mahu Blood together.
(And now I think I will start indulging my fangirl fantasies by crossing H50 and Mahu. Hey, a girl can dream, right? Well, my dream consists of Kimo and Ray joining a Five-0 investigation and working together with Steve, Danno & the others.)
I'll say it again: This book is genius. I'm in love with this book and Kimo. I want more.
September 2, 2018
TW: ableist language (All books have this unfortunately, but I'm mentioning it here because it's more excessive than usual and is directed towards characters who are mentally impaired.)
In the fifth book of the Mahu series, Kimo's dick does NOT get him into trouble. Looks like our boy is learning from past mistakes and growing up. But he can still have fun. :D
I continue to enjoy this series and this is the best one yet. The mystery is complex and has many layers, and as each one is peeled back, we just get more and more questions and more and more dead ends. I could feel Kimo's and Ray's frustrations as their case kept stalling. The whodunit was obvious, but getting proof of any kind, much less the kind that would hold up in court, was another matter. Seeing them continue to chip away at the mountain of tangled webs to get their guy (or in this case guys), knowing they were running out of time before their case went cold and their perp fled the country was nerve-wracking.
I also enjoyed learning more about the annexation of Hawaii and the various movements to bring back Hawaii's sovereignty, and we also get a glimpse about how native Hawaiians are treated by the American government. Spoiler alert: not very well. It's really not much better than how the federal government treats Native Americans, and I just happened to have been pointed to an article about this written in the Huffington Post while discussing the Gives Light series by Rose Christo (which I highly recommend). It's a good article and can be read here:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/1...
I'm by no means well-read on any of these issues, so I can't attest to how well Plakcy researched or portrayed this, but it is consistent with what I do know of Native American issues.
Once again, Kimo's family somehow ends up involved one way or another. I guess on a small island like this, and his parents being so high up the social ladder, that's just something to expect. It does still feel like a bit of a cheat, but in this case, it brought about such a great set of scenes between Kimo and his eldest brother Lui - who I've only been lukewarm about up to this point - that I can forgive it in this case. Lui feels much more human and less bureaucratic/monopolizing android here than in previous books. It was great to see how much this family cares for each other, even when they don't always understand each other.
As for Kimo and Mike, they're still working out their relationship issues. Since neither have been in a long-term relationship before, and Mike is only quasi-out of the closet at work, it hasn't been easy and moving in together doesn't exactly quick-fix things like Kimo hoped it would. We don't get as much time with these two as in the previous couple of books, but what we do get is hopeful and encouraging, even when they're pissing each other off. It felt like something real couples would go through, less ass-oggling (though there is some of that, but it's not written as if it's the only thing keeping this relationship together like you often run into in m/m) and more "whose turn is it to walk the dog?" Oh, and they get a dog named Roby, and he's a little cutie. I'm betting it won't be long before Kimo has Roby on a surfboard.
There was one little throwaway scene that looked like it might be leading to something about halfway through, and it had me nervous the rest of the book. It ended up being nothing though, so I'm not sure why it was there. Red herring?
In the fifth book of the Mahu series, Kimo's dick does NOT get him into trouble. Looks like our boy is learning from past mistakes and growing up. But he can still have fun. :D
I continue to enjoy this series and this is the best one yet. The mystery is complex and has many layers, and as each one is peeled back, we just get more and more questions and more and more dead ends. I could feel Kimo's and Ray's frustrations as their case kept stalling. The whodunit was obvious, but getting proof of any kind, much less the kind that would hold up in court, was another matter. Seeing them continue to chip away at the mountain of tangled webs to get their guy (or in this case guys), knowing they were running out of time before their case went cold and their perp fled the country was nerve-wracking.
I also enjoyed learning more about the annexation of Hawaii and the various movements to bring back Hawaii's sovereignty, and we also get a glimpse about how native Hawaiians are treated by the American government. Spoiler alert: not very well. It's really not much better than how the federal government treats Native Americans, and I just happened to have been pointed to an article about this written in the Huffington Post while discussing the Gives Light series by Rose Christo (which I highly recommend). It's a good article and can be read here:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/1...
I'm by no means well-read on any of these issues, so I can't attest to how well Plakcy researched or portrayed this, but it is consistent with what I do know of Native American issues.
Once again, Kimo's family somehow ends up involved one way or another. I guess on a small island like this, and his parents being so high up the social ladder, that's just something to expect. It does still feel like a bit of a cheat, but in this case, it brought about such a great set of scenes between Kimo and his eldest brother Lui - who I've only been lukewarm about up to this point - that I can forgive it in this case. Lui feels much more human and less bureaucratic/monopolizing android here than in previous books. It was great to see how much this family cares for each other, even when they don't always understand each other.
As for Kimo and Mike, they're still working out their relationship issues. Since neither have been in a long-term relationship before, and Mike is only quasi-out of the closet at work, it hasn't been easy and moving in together doesn't exactly quick-fix things like Kimo hoped it would. We don't get as much time with these two as in the previous couple of books, but what we do get is hopeful and encouraging, even when they're pissing each other off. It felt like something real couples would go through, less ass-oggling (though there is some of that, but it's not written as if it's the only thing keeping this relationship together like you often run into in m/m) and more "whose turn is it to walk the dog?" Oh, and they get a dog named Roby, and he's a little cutie. I'm betting it won't be long before Kimo has Roby on a surfboard.
There was one little throwaway scene that looked like it might be leading to something about halfway through, and it had me nervous the rest of the book. It ended up being nothing though, so I'm not sure why it was there. Red herring?
January 6, 2014
Reviewed by Marissa
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
As everyone who knows me is aware, I absolutely love this series about Kimo Kanapa’aka, the publicly outed gay cop in Honolulu. Kimo appeals to me on several levels – his masculinity (yes, he’s gay but that doesn’t mean he’s a fairy), his surfing abilities, his love for family and friends, his ability to foster gay teens in an outreach program and give them honest answers to their darkest and most personal questions, and his ability to kick ass as a detective.
In the latest installment, Kimo and his partner, Ray, must find the killer of an elderly woman shot during a Kingdom of Hawai’i rally and of a slow yet talkative lolo (crazy) man living in a group home who was set on fire. At the same time he is dealing with a number of other issues – difficulties at home after moving in with fireman-boyfriend Mike, worries over a young and ignorant mother connected to the case, agonizing over the fact that his own mother could have been the victim at the rally, and concerned with his brother’s addictions. Plus he has to constantly remind everyone that Stuey, the man from the group home, was not homeless, no matter what he looked like. All in all, Kimo does what Kimo does best – he cares for his ohana.
Plakcy has come up with another winner, not only in Kimo Kanapa’aka but in the overall detective genre as well. The characters are well written and, living in Hawai’i as I do, I can see the qualities of people I have met here on the island in the characters of Mahu Blood. The language used is choice (that’s pidgin for excellent), the places are fo’ real (except for the one’s that aren’t), and the events, unfortunately, could actually happen. I also love the new covers for all the Mahu books!
Now I’m just waiting for a book titled “Mahu Kapu” (translated – gay men forbidden).
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
As everyone who knows me is aware, I absolutely love this series about Kimo Kanapa’aka, the publicly outed gay cop in Honolulu. Kimo appeals to me on several levels – his masculinity (yes, he’s gay but that doesn’t mean he’s a fairy), his surfing abilities, his love for family and friends, his ability to foster gay teens in an outreach program and give them honest answers to their darkest and most personal questions, and his ability to kick ass as a detective.
In the latest installment, Kimo and his partner, Ray, must find the killer of an elderly woman shot during a Kingdom of Hawai’i rally and of a slow yet talkative lolo (crazy) man living in a group home who was set on fire. At the same time he is dealing with a number of other issues – difficulties at home after moving in with fireman-boyfriend Mike, worries over a young and ignorant mother connected to the case, agonizing over the fact that his own mother could have been the victim at the rally, and concerned with his brother’s addictions. Plus he has to constantly remind everyone that Stuey, the man from the group home, was not homeless, no matter what he looked like. All in all, Kimo does what Kimo does best – he cares for his ohana.
Plakcy has come up with another winner, not only in Kimo Kanapa’aka but in the overall detective genre as well. The characters are well written and, living in Hawai’i as I do, I can see the qualities of people I have met here on the island in the characters of Mahu Blood. The language used is choice (that’s pidgin for excellent), the places are fo’ real (except for the one’s that aren’t), and the events, unfortunately, could actually happen. I also love the new covers for all the Mahu books!
Now I’m just waiting for a book titled “Mahu Kapu” (translated – gay men forbidden).
September 30, 2012
I liked this book much better than the previous one (Mahu Vice). I found the framing narrative/plot really interesting (Hawaiian sovereignty) and the mystery was better than some of the others (still no surprises in any way, though). I was glad that Kimo was mostly able to keep the personal out of his investigation; although his family was peripherally involved, at least it had nothing to do with his sex life.
However. I really think Mike and Kimo's relationship is not healthy or romantic, but downright creepy/borderline abusive at times. Why should Mike care if Kimo has to interview a gay man for a case? That's pathological jealousy. And out of nowhere -- Mike was the one with the fidelity problem, not Kimo. And bringing home a dog without discussing it? So not okay.
And what was with the random scene were Kimo overheard someone plotting to break into a house and steal (back) a dog, but 1) didn't do anything about it, and 2) never having anything else come of it in the book? Weird.
But overall, I liked it.
However. I really think Mike and Kimo's relationship is not healthy or romantic, but downright creepy/borderline abusive at times. Why should Mike care if Kimo has to interview a gay man for a case? That's pathological jealousy. And out of nowhere -- Mike was the one with the fidelity problem, not Kimo. And bringing home a dog without discussing it? So not okay.
And what was with the random scene were Kimo overheard someone plotting to break into a house and steal (back) a dog, but 1) didn't do anything about it, and 2) never having anything else come of it in the book? Weird.
But overall, I liked it.
December 9, 2013
Another good entry in the Mahu series about Kimo Kanapa'aka, an openly gay detective in Honolulu.
In this one, he has moved in with his love, Mike Riccardi, a buff fire investigator. They are on duty at a parade when shots are fired, and an old woman is killed. She has ties to the Kingdom of Hawai'i, a separatist group that sponsored the parade. Was her death random, or not? Kimo and his partner Ray start to investigate, and more bodies turn up.
This is very much a procedural, with just enough action to keep things moving, but the main interest here is Kimo and Mike's relationships, with their families and each other. Will it withstand the rigors of two alpha males with stressful jobs?
There is some graphic gay sex, but not as graphic as in previous books, and not that much.
In this one, he has moved in with his love, Mike Riccardi, a buff fire investigator. They are on duty at a parade when shots are fired, and an old woman is killed. She has ties to the Kingdom of Hawai'i, a separatist group that sponsored the parade. Was her death random, or not? Kimo and his partner Ray start to investigate, and more bodies turn up.
This is very much a procedural, with just enough action to keep things moving, but the main interest here is Kimo and Mike's relationships, with their families and each other. Will it withstand the rigors of two alpha males with stressful jobs?
There is some graphic gay sex, but not as graphic as in previous books, and not that much.
January 30, 2017
Another great installment.
I liked that Mike and Kimo are evolving as a couple, the annoyance with each other, the make ups, getting more involved with family, learning to live with each other, learning to compromise
The mystery is satisfying, pulling three seemingly unrelated events together. You definitely get a feel for the confusion Kimo and Ray feel, knowing the connections should be there but trying to find them.
Ray and Kimo as a partnership is developing well, falling into comradeship.
Lui proves that the infallible brother is fallible after all, though he did disappear a bit at the end.
Again, would recommend reading in order, even though the mysteries are standalone, the best comes from seeing the development of the regular cast of characters
I liked that Mike and Kimo are evolving as a couple, the annoyance with each other, the make ups, getting more involved with family, learning to live with each other, learning to compromise
The mystery is satisfying, pulling three seemingly unrelated events together. You definitely get a feel for the confusion Kimo and Ray feel, knowing the connections should be there but trying to find them.
Ray and Kimo as a partnership is developing well, falling into comradeship.
Lui proves that the infallible brother is fallible after all, though he did disappear a bit at the end.
Again, would recommend reading in order, even though the mysteries are standalone, the best comes from seeing the development of the regular cast of characters
April 3, 2011
Fifth book (or sixth, if you count Mahu Men) in the series, Mahu Blood is a great round-up to a wonderful series. The mystery/crime in this book is interesting, with enough twists and clues to keep one guessing. The characterization is near flawless, I feel familiar with the main and recurring characters and even the new and secondary characters seem jumping off the page. Kimo's relationship with fireman Mike is maturing, but not without realistic problems of co-habiting, so that part is well paced and plotted as well.
A pretty satisfying read.
A pretty satisfying read.
July 10, 2014
This the fifth book in the gay mystery series about Hawaiian homicide detective Kimo, who is now happily settled with fire-fighter partner Mike and sharing a home. With his partner Ray, Kimo is on duty at a rally the Kingdom of Hawaii when an old woman gets shot. What unravels is a story of murder, money laundering and fraud. As usual the descriptions of the setting as well as the characters gives much to the story. This is fast becoming one of my favourite series, but it is most definitely not an M/M romance (though this one does have a happy ending)
February 21, 2016
Another excellent mystery set in and around Honolulu starring Kimo Kanapaka'ele. Again I was transported to Hawaii, and the mystery was engrossing to the end. It's great to see Mike and Kimo's relationship grow and become closer through this series.
Can't wait for the next book.
Can't wait for the next book.
May 23, 2015
The perp just confessed? to everything? just like that? really???
I could overlook the stiff writing... and the minimal character development... and the overdone Hawaii references (the author's not even from that state!)... as long as the mystery was good. After this book - I am done.
I could overlook the stiff writing... and the minimal character development... and the overdone Hawaii references (the author's not even from that state!)... as long as the mystery was good. After this book - I am done.
July 20, 2013
I loved it. Great, involved mystery ending with an HEA. I'll be re-reading the whole series many times and new Mahu books are always welcome.
October 10, 2011
I really, really hope Plakcy continues this series.
setting-aside-for-now
December 20, 2012Setting this aside for now. I think I burned myself out from reading all the previous books in a row before this one. Might pick it up again later.
April 10, 2021
This is a great story. Neil Plakcy is one of my must read authors!
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