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The Colby Tate Mysteries #1
Murder One: A Colby Tate Mystery
>>>>> MURDER, GREED, LOVE LOST, TREASURE FOUND and THE MEXICAN MOB.
Rookie sheriff Colby Tate's first murder case draws the ex-Marine interpreter into the murky world of property disputes, family jealousy, hidden treasure, and an old woman smothered in her favorite easy chair. Two thieving neighbors hungry to gain control of her land. A home service provider named as her sole heir. A mysterious source of income that ties her to the Mexican cartels. In this first book in the Colby Tate Mystery Series, award-winning author Allen Kent engages the reader in the same page-turning suspense and intriguing twists of plot that have made his Unit 1 thrillers national bestsellers. Join Sheriff Colby Tate as he unravels his first case of Murder One: who killed Nettie Suskey?
Rookie sheriff Colby Tate's first murder case draws the ex-Marine interpreter into the murky world of property disputes, family jealousy, hidden treasure, and an old woman smothered in her favorite easy chair. Two thieving neighbors hungry to gain control of her land. A home service provider named as her sole heir. A mysterious source of income that ties her to the Mexican cartels. In this first book in the Colby Tate Mystery Series, award-winning author Allen Kent engages the reader in the same page-turning suspense and intriguing twists of plot that have made his Unit 1 thrillers national bestsellers. Join Sheriff Colby Tate as he unravels his first case of Murder One: who killed Nettie Suskey?
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 22, 2019
218 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Allen Kent
24 books35 followersAllen Kent is the author of the popular “Unit 1” thriller series, the Whitlock Trilogy in historical fiction, and a number of other mysteries and action novels. His books are published in electronic form by Kindle Press and in paperback by AllenPearce Publishers. He lives and writes in rural southwest Missouri.
Kent is a former Air Force pilot and educator who spent four years of his early life living in Iran and England. He has traveled and worked extensively in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia – experiences that are often reflected in his writing.
Writing as Kent Farnsworth, Kent has also published two works of non-fiction: “Grassroots School Reform” and “Leadership as Service.”
He and his wife Holly are avid travelers, gardeners, and conservationists, and live in an eco-friendly home near the community of Neosho.
See: https://www.amazon.com/Allen-Kent/e/B...
Kent is a former Air Force pilot and educator who spent four years of his early life living in Iran and England. He has traveled and worked extensively in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia – experiences that are often reflected in his writing.
Writing as Kent Farnsworth, Kent has also published two works of non-fiction: “Grassroots School Reform” and “Leadership as Service.”
He and his wife Holly are avid travelers, gardeners, and conservationists, and live in an eco-friendly home near the community of Neosho.
See: https://www.amazon.com/Allen-Kent/e/B...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 20, 2022
good mystery
Not a bad first mystery- it’s a little slow going but you have to get to know all the players first. Characters are well developed and the concept is good. Next book here’s hoping the pace is a little faster.
Not a bad first mystery- it’s a little slow going but you have to get to know all the players first. Characters are well developed and the concept is good. Next book here’s hoping the pace is a little faster.
September 12, 2022
Interesting characters. Re-read September, 2022.
March 29, 2025
Kindle Unlimited, The Colby Tatey Mysteries 1-5
MURDER ONE, #1 of 5 Colby Tate Mysteries, is a great start to a good read. Colby Tate is an interesting character - native son, ex-Marine, newly elected rookie Sheriff with less law enforcement experience than his young chief deputy, Grace Torres, but a clear understanding of the job nonetheless. And they have a great deal to contend with - the murder of an old woman, theft of her trees, and the impending flooding of the whole of the valley under Huckleberry Ridge to provide water for the small community of Crayton, Missouri, in the heart of the Ozarks. Added to all that, a father/son duo who are surely at the heart of the Huckleberry Ridge troubles and too fast on the draw, an isolated Serbian society set neatly into their community, and input from a federal cop, Mara Joseph, whether they need it or not. Tate worked in his service years as a translator in the Middle East in Arabic and Farsi and finds himself called on to do the same with their immigrant community. It also added to his understanding of the problems developing in that quarter. I loved the descriptive way we are introduced to the community, this land, and this way of life. This was a good tale, told very well.
REVIEWED on March 28. 2025, At Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available at Kobo. Also reviewed but not counted on The Colby Tate Mysteries Books 1-5. at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes & Noble, and BookBub. Not available at Kobo.
MURDER ONE, #1 of 5 Colby Tate Mysteries, is a great start to a good read. Colby Tate is an interesting character - native son, ex-Marine, newly elected rookie Sheriff with less law enforcement experience than his young chief deputy, Grace Torres, but a clear understanding of the job nonetheless. And they have a great deal to contend with - the murder of an old woman, theft of her trees, and the impending flooding of the whole of the valley under Huckleberry Ridge to provide water for the small community of Crayton, Missouri, in the heart of the Ozarks. Added to all that, a father/son duo who are surely at the heart of the Huckleberry Ridge troubles and too fast on the draw, an isolated Serbian society set neatly into their community, and input from a federal cop, Mara Joseph, whether they need it or not. Tate worked in his service years as a translator in the Middle East in Arabic and Farsi and finds himself called on to do the same with their immigrant community. It also added to his understanding of the problems developing in that quarter. I loved the descriptive way we are introduced to the community, this land, and this way of life. This was a good tale, told very well.
REVIEWED on March 28. 2025, At Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available at Kobo. Also reviewed but not counted on The Colby Tate Mysteries Books 1-5. at Goodreads, AmazonSmile, Barnes & Noble, and BookBub. Not available at Kobo.
February 26, 2020
In typical Kent fashion this is a tight, well written novel and his narrative style keeps the reader turning pages with a well built plot that offers a unique twist or two. But the strength of Allen Kent's books for me has always been his characterizations and this one is no exception. Colby Tate could have walked in off the street and wouldn't have been more believable than he is in the book. In addition to Tate, Mara and Grace are both strong counter points to Tate creating a unique dynamic that as a subplot helps propel the story forward. I found that I was as interested in the way the dynamic between these three worked out as I was in discovering whodunit. This may be my favorite Allen Kent book, or at least near the head of the list. I hope to see more of Colby Tate soon!!
April 17, 2021
Murder One: A Colby Tate Mystery (The Colby Tate Mysteries Book 1), my first read from author Allen Kent, an author I'd wanted to read for some time yet never got around to even though I own several of his books. Well-written with memorable characters that make you want to read more about them. December seemed to be my month for new authors, January & February & then March continued the trend, and now April. “I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
December 5, 2019
An Amazing Original Plot
The author uses descriptions of people, places, and events that can only come from life experiences rather than mere research. This book is refreshing in that it depicts real life and emotions without the use of extreme vulgarities. It has mystery, romance, and humor blended into an original plot. It is a great book for down home mysteries.
The author uses descriptions of people, places, and events that can only come from life experiences rather than mere research. This book is refreshing in that it depicts real life and emotions without the use of extreme vulgarities. It has mystery, romance, and humor blended into an original plot. It is a great book for down home mysteries.
January 1, 2020
A truly good book. Interesting characters. Good plot.
I want to read more of Mr. Kent's works if they are comparable to this one. The good guys are likeable and human and the bad guys are bad to their core. I had a graphic picture of the people involved due to the authors ease of creating these characters. A good mystery till the satisfying end.
I want to read more of Mr. Kent's works if they are comparable to this one. The good guys are likeable and human and the bad guys are bad to their core. I had a graphic picture of the people involved due to the authors ease of creating these characters. A good mystery till the satisfying end.
January 31, 2020
Entertaining twists and turns
Who in earth would want kill old Nettie, a woman so poor she didn't seem to have two nickels to run together? Turns out, a lot of people. All driven by greedy desire. A new local sheriff in backwoods Missouri crosses state and international lines tracking down leads and an ever-expanding list of suspects. Kept me guessing right to the end!
Who in earth would want kill old Nettie, a woman so poor she didn't seem to have two nickels to run together? Turns out, a lot of people. All driven by greedy desire. A new local sheriff in backwoods Missouri crosses state and international lines tracking down leads and an ever-expanding list of suspects. Kept me guessing right to the end!
August 5, 2020
Excellent!
Very good murder mystery! Sheriff Colby Tate, returned home after overseas with the Marines and US government, finds his small home town crimes minor. Murder occurs and things escalate quickly. Characters are enjoyable, suspects are varied and uncooperative, and the investigation becomes more intricate. Plot well developed and conclusion totally unexpected!
Very good murder mystery! Sheriff Colby Tate, returned home after overseas with the Marines and US government, finds his small home town crimes minor. Murder occurs and things escalate quickly. Characters are enjoyable, suspects are varied and uncooperative, and the investigation becomes more intricate. Plot well developed and conclusion totally unexpected!
April 14, 2021
The spoils of a war inherited by. Nettie
This such a good book. It is well written and keeps the reader engaged throughout. Nettie Suskey is an elderly lady who lives by herself in rural Missouri. Some disreputable people become aware that she lives on no income and set out to find where she gets her money. Of course greed takes over and ends with her tragic death.
This such a good book. It is well written and keeps the reader engaged throughout. Nettie Suskey is an elderly lady who lives by herself in rural Missouri. Some disreputable people become aware that she lives on no income and set out to find where she gets her money. Of course greed takes over and ends with her tragic death.
October 17, 2023
THE WRITING STYLE WAS TOO TALKY FOR NO REASON, A LITTLE TO WORDY FOR MY TASTE. THIS WAS NOT A VERY LONG BOOK (it seemed like it) ONLY 191 PAGES. I WAS AT 70% AND STILL WASN'T SURE WHO-DONE-IT, THATS A GOOD THING FOR ME (not sure who is guilty) WHEN READING A MYSTERY. I THINK I WILL HAVE TO TRY BK#2 AND SEE IF I WANT TO CONTINUE READING THIS SERIES. ;D
December 10, 2019
I loved the setting of the book and the authentic details. The idea of hidden treasure in the Ozarks was interesting and believable. The characters! The Ozark folk were described to tee. I enjoyed this mystery and look forward to the next in the series.
January 9, 2020
Murder One
Very entertaining and interesting storyline about the mysterious murder that seems to have no motive and no suspect but on closer inspection multiple suspects and motives are discovered.
Very entertaining and interesting storyline about the mysterious murder that seems to have no motive and no suspect but on closer inspection multiple suspects and motives are discovered.
July 3, 2020
I truly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The characters were true to life, the background scenery was well thought out, the plot was straight forward, but with enough twists in it to keep a person interested. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good murder mystery.
July 18, 2020
Good who done it
This a good murder mystery with several suspects. As the story progresses more suspects appear. It is a fun read with lots of twists and turns, and a surprise rnding
This a good murder mystery with several suspects. As the story progresses more suspects appear. It is a fun read with lots of twists and turns, and a surprise rnding
December 15, 2020
A mystery with heart
The plot is clever, with unexpected twists and turns, but the real strength of the book is in its believable characters and in the evocation of small town America
The plot is clever, with unexpected twists and turns, but the real strength of the book is in its believable characters and in the evocation of small town America
March 5, 2021
Excitement, Fun
This mystery was quite fun to read. Lots of excitement in this small back woods town where an elderly woman is murdered. There are plenty of suspects but did unshaven do it? Enjoy relaxing in the central states and solve a murder.
This mystery was quite fun to read. Lots of excitement in this small back woods town where an elderly woman is murdered. There are plenty of suspects but did unshaven do it? Enjoy relaxing in the central states and solve a murder.
July 4, 2021
Small-time sheriff, big-time problem
Is the sheriff of a small town aided or hampered by everyone knowing everyone? So many connections, rumors, motives. Who and why would they murder old Nettle? She had nothing... Or did she?
Is the sheriff of a small town aided or hampered by everyone knowing everyone? So many connections, rumors, motives. Who and why would they murder old Nettle? She had nothing... Or did she?
March 23, 2022
Good murder mystery
This kept my attention while trying to figure out who did it. Each chapter gave me more clues but still managed to keep me in the dark until the end. Well written and interesting.
This kept my attention while trying to figure out who did it. Each chapter gave me more clues but still managed to keep me in the dark until the end. Well written and interesting.
April 20, 2022
Entertaining
In a shabby mobile home in the isolated woods, an old woman is found smothered to death. The police must unravel the mystery of the old woman's finances as they investigate the murder. This book will please a reader who likes drama, mystery and intrigue.
In a shabby mobile home in the isolated woods, an old woman is found smothered to death. The police must unravel the mystery of the old woman's finances as they investigate the murder. This book will please a reader who likes drama, mystery and intrigue.
December 14, 2019
Jk
A really good book I enjoyed reading . There is nothing better then finding a book that you don't want to end
A really good book I enjoyed reading . There is nothing better then finding a book that you don't want to end
December 20, 2019
Excellent!
An offbeat location, good cops with human failings, and a well thought out plot, complimented by good writing. A little confusing on rifle caliber
An offbeat location, good cops with human failings, and a well thought out plot, complimented by good writing. A little confusing on rifle caliber
January 29, 2020
A good book.
June 25, 2020
Very Good
First book I have read by the author. Will look for more.
Kept me guessing until the end.
Good start to a series, but no cliffhanger.
First book I have read by the author. Will look for more.
Kept me guessing until the end.
Good start to a series, but no cliffhanger.
Read
April 18, 2021Good stuff
I could enjoy a few more stories of this kind of writing. Well told, and we'll crafted. All good stuff.
I could enjoy a few more stories of this kind of writing. Well told, and we'll crafted. All good stuff.
April 22, 2021
Intrigue
Lots of possible bad guys. And I found a new author yay!
Nice read ,Thanks, I will look for mor oh his books
Lots of possible bad guys. And I found a new author yay!
Nice read ,Thanks, I will look for mor oh his books
April 30, 2021
Really good police procedural.
Really great book! Thoroughly enjoyed this one. A new author on my radar. I am grateful for that.
Highly recommend!!
Really great book! Thoroughly enjoyed this one. A new author on my radar. I am grateful for that.
Highly recommend!!
August 15, 2021
A well written story with a love interest, interesting murder, and a variety of interesting characters
March 30, 2022
Action Packed
I loved this book. It was filled with action from beginning to end. The twists and turns lead to a surprising end.
I loved this book. It was filled with action from beginning to end. The twists and turns lead to a surprising end.
April 18, 2022
Kept you guessing.
With twists and turns in every chapter, you never had a good guess as to who the killer was. It was hard to put down.
With twists and turns in every chapter, you never had a good guess as to who the killer was. It was hard to put down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews