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Roscoe Conklin Mystery #1
Diver's Paradise
Perfect for fans of Randy Wayne White's Doc Ford and Robert B. Parker's Spencer After 25 years on the job, Detective Roscoe Conklin trades his badge for a pair of shorts and sandals and moves to Bonaire, a small island nestled in the southern Caribbean. But the warm water, palm trees, and sunsets are derailed when his long-time police-buddy and friend back home is murdered. Conklin dusts off a few markers and calls his old department, trolling for information. It's slow going, but no surprise there; after all, it's an active investigation, and his compadres back home aren't saying a damn thing. He's 2,000 miles away, living in paradise. Does he really think he can help? They suggest he go to the beach and catch some rays. For Conklin, it's not that simple. When a suspicious mishap lands his significant other, Arabella, in the hospital, the island police conduct, at best, a sluggish investigation, stonewalling progress. Conklin questions the evidence and challenges the department's methods. Something isn't right...Arabella wasn't the intended target. He was.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2020
80 people are currently reading
943 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 14, 2021
A good read worth every one of the four stars. This book reminds me a little of Randy Wayne White and John D. MacDonald, two great authors and great company to be associated. The voice is casual and loose as it should be in a perfect beach read. One of the things I like most is the sense of place; the descriptions carry equal weight as the main characters. I really enjoy finding out about a location I’ve never been. The reader is dropped easily into the story and the Fictive Dream is never disrupted meaning excellent structure. This is the kind of book you fire up a rum punch, a lounge chair in the shade by the pool an enjoy the smooth easy ride.
David Putnam author of The Bruno Johnson series.
David Putnam author of The Bruno Johnson series.
February 4, 2020
lovely thriller, full with great atmosphere and really great touch in characters. amazing for debut novel. colorful and full will life and humor. Goodwin put a lot of life expiriance ito it or great reserch. should give it 4.5* really for the flaw of events and the sure touch of writing. nice! looking forward to more from this talented guy.
November 14, 2022
The Publisher Says: After 25 years on the job, Detective Roscoe Conklin trades his badge for a pair of shorts and sandals and moves to Bonaire, a small island nestled in the southern Caribbean. But the warm water, palm trees, and sunsets are derailed when his long-time police-buddy and friend back home, is murdered.
Conklin dusts off a few markers and calls his old department, trolling for information. It’s slow going. No surprise, there. After all, it’s an active investigation, and his compadres back home aren’t saying a damn thing.
He’s 2,000 miles away, living in paradise. Does he really think he can help? They suggest he go to the beach and catch some rays.
For Conklin, it’s not that simple. Outside looking in? Not him. Never has been. Never will be.
When a suspicious mishap lands his significant other, Arabella, in the hospital, the island police conduct, at best, a sluggish investigation, stonewalling progress. Conklin questions the evidence and challenges the department’s methods. Something isn’t right.
Arabella wasn’t the intended target.
He was.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: Living in New York for as long as I have done, I found the detective's name...Roscoe Conklin (no "g")...very humorous. I also appreciated the setting, little-used Dutch possession Bonaire, particularly fun. Author Goodwin evokes island life, with its on-top-of-each-other intimacy and its high stress on reputations and their value, absolutely spot-on at every turn. (My own island residence isn't tropical, but it's very much that way exactly.)
I do actually, in this case, agree that these two books can be read in any order and you won't miss out on any connections or subtleties. I'm usually a very by-the-order kind of a reader.
The sleuth, Roscoe, is a mensch...salt of the earth...a solid, do-right kind of guy. For all that, someone's got a grudge against him. I suppose that's pretty inevitable for the cops of the world. What isn't inevitable, I hope, is the somewhat slapdash way Roscoe and his island love Arabella (a cop, not a retired one) treat clues and miss seeing some important ones (eg, friend Tiffany's boyfriend's a domestic abuser among other things). That's where that missing star went.
One thing I found particularly endearing was retired Chicago PD detective Roscoe explicitly says he wants to get to the truth of the matter, that being the only way he'll be safe and able to keep Arabella and his other island friends safe from tbe violence that's followed him there. That really made me like the author and his creation that little bit more.
Conklin dusts off a few markers and calls his old department, trolling for information. It’s slow going. No surprise, there. After all, it’s an active investigation, and his compadres back home aren’t saying a damn thing.
He’s 2,000 miles away, living in paradise. Does he really think he can help? They suggest he go to the beach and catch some rays.
For Conklin, it’s not that simple. Outside looking in? Not him. Never has been. Never will be.
When a suspicious mishap lands his significant other, Arabella, in the hospital, the island police conduct, at best, a sluggish investigation, stonewalling progress. Conklin questions the evidence and challenges the department’s methods. Something isn’t right.
Arabella wasn’t the intended target.
He was.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: Living in New York for as long as I have done, I found the detective's name...Roscoe Conklin (no "g")...very humorous. I also appreciated the setting, little-used Dutch possession Bonaire, particularly fun. Author Goodwin evokes island life, with its on-top-of-each-other intimacy and its high stress on reputations and their value, absolutely spot-on at every turn. (My own island residence isn't tropical, but it's very much that way exactly.)
I do actually, in this case, agree that these two books can be read in any order and you won't miss out on any connections or subtleties. I'm usually a very by-the-order kind of a reader.
The sleuth, Roscoe, is a mensch...salt of the earth...a solid, do-right kind of guy. For all that, someone's got a grudge against him. I suppose that's pretty inevitable for the cops of the world. What isn't inevitable, I hope, is the somewhat slapdash way Roscoe and his island love Arabella (a cop, not a retired one) treat clues and miss seeing some important ones (eg, friend Tiffany's boyfriend's a domestic abuser among other things). That's where that missing star went.
One thing I found particularly endearing was retired Chicago PD detective Roscoe explicitly says he wants to get to the truth of the matter, that being the only way he'll be safe and able to keep Arabella and his other island friends safe from tbe violence that's followed him there. That really made me like the author and his creation that little bit more.
February 17, 2020
Diver’s Paradise is a debut novel by author Davin Goodwin.
Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective enjoying the life on the island of Bonaire, on which he has bought and manages a ten rooms hotel. Bonaire is in the south Carribean, and is a little paradise the former detective makes the most of.
At the beginning of the novel, he’s informed of the death of his former partner, and of his wife back in the States. It’s a shock for Conklin, but there isn’t much he can do about it. That is, until trouble finds him on the island. First in the form of the new assholy boyfriend of his friend Tiffany, whom he met on a case some years prior, and then in the form of violence, seemingly having found its way to him from the US.
For a debut novel, the writing is quite impressive. Words are flowing and the book is an easy read. The author knows the island of Bonaire on which he practices diving, flying, and banjo, traits inherited by his character. The depiction of the island and its locales both over and underwater is quite relaxing, as it must be for our hero.
Pleasant as it is to read, the book is unfortunately often frustrating. We don’t know how good Roscoe Conklin was as a detective, but he points out his partner was the better one. Retirement seems to have mellowed him a bit, too, as he misses a lot of clues and connections the reader manages to easily make. Conklin also fails to take appropriate actions at several points. His apathy at the manner Tiffany’s boyfriend is treating her being the first of such frustrations. Maybe that’s a cultural difference between Americans and French, so I won’t hold that against the author.
For the notable exception of Conklin’s cop girlfriend Arabella, the police on the island also often comes as incompetent, not doing due diligence on several pretty serious incidents.
As a consequence, many tragedies happen that could have been averted and, if this book was to become a series, I hope Conklin will get back some of his edge as a detective.
Nonetheless, this was a quick and still entertaining read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for the ARC provided in exchange for this unbiased review.
Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective enjoying the life on the island of Bonaire, on which he has bought and manages a ten rooms hotel. Bonaire is in the south Carribean, and is a little paradise the former detective makes the most of.
At the beginning of the novel, he’s informed of the death of his former partner, and of his wife back in the States. It’s a shock for Conklin, but there isn’t much he can do about it. That is, until trouble finds him on the island. First in the form of the new assholy boyfriend of his friend Tiffany, whom he met on a case some years prior, and then in the form of violence, seemingly having found its way to him from the US.
For a debut novel, the writing is quite impressive. Words are flowing and the book is an easy read. The author knows the island of Bonaire on which he practices diving, flying, and banjo, traits inherited by his character. The depiction of the island and its locales both over and underwater is quite relaxing, as it must be for our hero.
Pleasant as it is to read, the book is unfortunately often frustrating. We don’t know how good Roscoe Conklin was as a detective, but he points out his partner was the better one. Retirement seems to have mellowed him a bit, too, as he misses a lot of clues and connections the reader manages to easily make. Conklin also fails to take appropriate actions at several points. His apathy at the manner Tiffany’s boyfriend is treating her being the first of such frustrations. Maybe that’s a cultural difference between Americans and French, so I won’t hold that against the author.
For the notable exception of Conklin’s cop girlfriend Arabella, the police on the island also often comes as incompetent, not doing due diligence on several pretty serious incidents.
As a consequence, many tragedies happen that could have been averted and, if this book was to become a series, I hope Conklin will get back some of his edge as a detective.
Nonetheless, this was a quick and still entertaining read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Oceanview Publishing for the ARC provided in exchange for this unbiased review.
April 7, 2020
Roscoe Conklin, retired Detective, has relocated to a small island in the Caribbean. But not all is paradise ... Roscoe's partner and best friend was murdered, along with his wife. . in the US.
He's hoping his old friends still in the department will share a little of their investigation...but everyone is being very quiet.
And when his lady friend, Arabella, lands in the hospital, he discovers that she wasn't the target .... he was.
Who wanted his partner dead .. and who has their eyes on Roscoe?
This is a well written thriller, filled with non-stop action, and memorable characters that are skillfully drawn. I loved the atmospheric background of surfing, swimming, diving amid the page-turning twists and turns. A little bit of romance, a little bit of humor makes this a winner.
Diver’s Paradise is this author's debut novel. I look forward to see the next adventures of Roscoe.
Many thanks to the author / Oceanview Publishing / Edelweiss / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
April 29, 2021
A great read. Roscoe Conklin is a likeable character and the 1st person narration in his perspective felt real. I loved the scenery, the descriptions painted a picture and involved many senses, including smell. For the most part the book kept me wanting to know what happened, though I did have some correct guesses! Arabella was my favorite character, a really cool lady. Would definitely read another one!
May 15, 2020
This is my first book by this author I really enjoyed this book. I will definitely look for more books by this author in the future.
This book included mystery, intriguing / mysterious relationships among friends, crime and death, and lots of wonderful beachy scenes. I liked the way the plot was laid out - I didn't figure the book out until close to the end - it was very clever.
R is a retired detective from the Chicago area that has cashed in his pension to move to a Caribbean island and operate a motel. He has been on the island for a few years and is getting accustomed to "island life" until people from his past begin to be murdered. Could this be tied to one of his previous cases? Is he in danger? Will the murderer come find him in his tropical oasis? Read this book to go on a delightful journey and discover the answers to those questions (and many more).
I was provided this book ahead of time in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated above is mine without biases.
This book included mystery, intriguing / mysterious relationships among friends, crime and death, and lots of wonderful beachy scenes. I liked the way the plot was laid out - I didn't figure the book out until close to the end - it was very clever.
R is a retired detective from the Chicago area that has cashed in his pension to move to a Caribbean island and operate a motel. He has been on the island for a few years and is getting accustomed to "island life" until people from his past begin to be murdered. Could this be tied to one of his previous cases? Is he in danger? Will the murderer come find him in his tropical oasis? Read this book to go on a delightful journey and discover the answers to those questions (and many more).
I was provided this book ahead of time in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated above is mine without biases.
April 12, 2020
What a great novel. I really enjoyed it. I thoroughly enjoyed the setting and appreciated getting to know a new location in the Caribbean. I liked the characters. Goodwin has done a good job of creating characters I cared about and wanted to see succeed. And the mystery was good with systematic gathering of clues and plenty of red herrings.
But the best part was the Dutch influence. Being of Dutch descent myself, I loved that aspect of the novel. And to read one of the characters say a phrase I've heard so often, every time an odd couple would walk by: there's not a pot so crooked there's not a lid to fit it. What fun. I will certainly be looking for more from this author.
I recommend this novel to mystery lovers who enjoy a great setting, well developed characters, a mystery well plotted, and a good dose of suspense near the end.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
But the best part was the Dutch influence. Being of Dutch descent myself, I loved that aspect of the novel. And to read one of the characters say a phrase I've heard so often, every time an odd couple would walk by: there's not a pot so crooked there's not a lid to fit it. What fun. I will certainly be looking for more from this author.
I recommend this novel to mystery lovers who enjoy a great setting, well developed characters, a mystery well plotted, and a good dose of suspense near the end.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
April 22, 2020
Diver’s Paradise is Davin Goodwin’s debut noir novel. In it, he’s captured Caribbean life quite well. There’s great local color both on land and underwater. I read this because I enjoy a good detective story now and then.
Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective and diver who’s moved to the island of Bonaire and bought a rundown motel with his retirement account. At the beginning of the novel, he receives news of the deaths of his former partner and his wife back in the States. From there, people around Conklin are murdered, so he embarks on the trail of their killer while trying to solve—long distance—the murders of his friends. Unfortunately, he must have lost his edge during retirement because he frequently misses clues that are obvious to the reader. While “island time” may be vague, the police department there seems to work on “island mind” and are frequently dismissed as bumbling and lazy.
Roscoe Conklin is a retired police detective and diver who’s moved to the island of Bonaire and bought a rundown motel with his retirement account. At the beginning of the novel, he receives news of the deaths of his former partner and his wife back in the States. From there, people around Conklin are murdered, so he embarks on the trail of their killer while trying to solve—long distance—the murders of his friends. Unfortunately, he must have lost his edge during retirement because he frequently misses clues that are obvious to the reader. While “island time” may be vague, the police department there seems to work on “island mind” and are frequently dismissed as bumbling and lazy.
April 11, 2020
I don't read too often mystery books, but from time to time I enjoy myself trying to find the culprit before the story reveals it. For this reason, I do not like those authors who jump at the end with some details kept secret from you. I'm happy to say that Diver's Paradise is not one of these.
Not knowing what to expect, I start reading and I hear my phone. First ring. I ignore it and keep reading. After the first pages, already I'm totally in and start thinking of various motives and possible directions in which the plot could go.
Second ring. I'm still ignoring the phone. The description of the main character's retirement life and of Bonaire Island do not disturb the rhythm. The details contribute to the atmosphere and make a great contrast with what has and will happen next. The depiction of the Island is very picturesque adding to the easiness with which the reader can "see" the story.
Third ring. I know I'll ignore it. I have to think of all the pieces of information, memories, red hearings and too easy to be true details and to work on the puzzle. Davin Goodwin is a sincere mystery writer, but a mystery author nonetheless. He plays with you and apparently forgets about the initial murders dealing only with the present.
I have to discern between the good and bad cops who are out to play, skepticism, broken ribs, unglamorous research, and life attempts. The pages fly, the plot thickens, and every written row brings a jigsaw piece for which I have to find the correct place. I loved that!
Fourth ring. I'm looking at the number and... ignore it. I have to finish this! It is not hard at all to ignore the phone. I like the imperfect-perfect ex-Detective Roscoe Conklin, and how he manages (or not) to be on the other side of the table, facing the mirror. How finding the truth means more than finding a criminal. Objectivity, Logic, and Common Sense... these are the three characteristics that an effective investigator must have. Actually, they are the features around which David Goodwin weaves his mystery.
Fifth ring. Don't want to answer. Satisfied, I close my kindle. It was a good ride.
There is no place for "maybe, maybe not", mystery grunts or veterans, I think you will all enjoy Diver's Paradise!
Dank je, Mr. Goodwin!
https://mythicalbooks.blogspot.com/20...
Not knowing what to expect, I start reading and I hear my phone. First ring. I ignore it and keep reading. After the first pages, already I'm totally in and start thinking of various motives and possible directions in which the plot could go.
Second ring. I'm still ignoring the phone. The description of the main character's retirement life and of Bonaire Island do not disturb the rhythm. The details contribute to the atmosphere and make a great contrast with what has and will happen next. The depiction of the Island is very picturesque adding to the easiness with which the reader can "see" the story.
Third ring. I know I'll ignore it. I have to think of all the pieces of information, memories, red hearings and too easy to be true details and to work on the puzzle. Davin Goodwin is a sincere mystery writer, but a mystery author nonetheless. He plays with you and apparently forgets about the initial murders dealing only with the present.
I have to discern between the good and bad cops who are out to play, skepticism, broken ribs, unglamorous research, and life attempts. The pages fly, the plot thickens, and every written row brings a jigsaw piece for which I have to find the correct place. I loved that!
Fourth ring. I'm looking at the number and... ignore it. I have to finish this! It is not hard at all to ignore the phone. I like the imperfect-perfect ex-Detective Roscoe Conklin, and how he manages (or not) to be on the other side of the table, facing the mirror. How finding the truth means more than finding a criminal. Objectivity, Logic, and Common Sense... these are the three characteristics that an effective investigator must have. Actually, they are the features around which David Goodwin weaves his mystery.
Fifth ring. Don't want to answer. Satisfied, I close my kindle. It was a good ride.
There is no place for "maybe, maybe not", mystery grunts or veterans, I think you will all enjoy Diver's Paradise!
Dank je, Mr. Goodwin!
https://mythicalbooks.blogspot.com/20...
March 21, 2020
I received this book thru a Goodreads giveaway. I would like to thank the author and the publishing company for their generosity.
This book is about a police detective, Roscoe, who is retired and chose Bonaire as his place of retirement. He owns a resort and life is good until friends of his are murdered back in the United States.
In the description this book mentions for fans of Robert Parker's Spenser and I can definitely see the influence. This is the author's debut novel and I was impressed. As for the story itself it had its ups and downs but it was an enjoyable read. Each character has a distinctive voice but I did wish some minor characters were fleshed out a little more because of their significance to the story. I was intrigued by the mystery but once again it just needed to be fleshed out a little more. I believe that the mistake with this was the author spent a lot of time about the island itself and its activities. I understand setting the mood and atmosphere but not at the expense of the plot.
Even with these tiny flaws I did like the book. The characters and the mystery will entice the reader to keep on reading but the book just misses the mark of being really good. It was like the author flirted with it the whole time but could not stick the landing. I think the reason for this it is a debut novel. With experience I believe the author will eventually stick the landing. I hope it is with these characters as I would be more than interested in visiting this universe again.
This book is about a police detective, Roscoe, who is retired and chose Bonaire as his place of retirement. He owns a resort and life is good until friends of his are murdered back in the United States.
In the description this book mentions for fans of Robert Parker's Spenser and I can definitely see the influence. This is the author's debut novel and I was impressed. As for the story itself it had its ups and downs but it was an enjoyable read. Each character has a distinctive voice but I did wish some minor characters were fleshed out a little more because of their significance to the story. I was intrigued by the mystery but once again it just needed to be fleshed out a little more. I believe that the mistake with this was the author spent a lot of time about the island itself and its activities. I understand setting the mood and atmosphere but not at the expense of the plot.
Even with these tiny flaws I did like the book. The characters and the mystery will entice the reader to keep on reading but the book just misses the mark of being really good. It was like the author flirted with it the whole time but could not stick the landing. I think the reason for this it is a debut novel. With experience I believe the author will eventually stick the landing. I hope it is with these characters as I would be more than interested in visiting this universe again.
December 16, 2019
Debut ARC from one Mr. Davin Goodwin. Very well done. Roscoe "R" Conklin is a retired detective who's relocated to the Caribbean. But his relaxed lifestyle and clear blue water visuals bring more than he ever expected, including danger to the people closest to him . . . including him.
The book is tightly written with excellent pacing, a strong plot, and likable key characters. The subplots keep things interesting and the story moving forward, and everything is wrapped up beautifully. What keeps me from giving this five stars is that after chapter one, the action doesn't really start until page 100—a bit too far. For a debut, though, Diver's Paradise is excellent. And I hear through the grapevine there's another book coming from Mr. Goodwin . . . I'm very much looking forward to the sophomore effort.
The book is tightly written with excellent pacing, a strong plot, and likable key characters. The subplots keep things interesting and the story moving forward, and everything is wrapped up beautifully. What keeps me from giving this five stars is that after chapter one, the action doesn't really start until page 100—a bit too far. For a debut, though, Diver's Paradise is excellent. And I hear through the grapevine there's another book coming from Mr. Goodwin . . . I'm very much looking forward to the sophomore effort.
November 12, 2019
This is one of my recent favorites. Davin's style illustrates he has an eye for details and plot twists that keep the reader involved and engaged. The first couple of chapters hook you right away and you are kept contemplating the following chapters, or the next addition to the plot. In fact, it kept me wondering what small detail I may have missed from chapter to chapter - all the way to the keep you guessing finish. In addition I began to question if I had what it takes to be like RC (Roscoe Conklin - the main character).
May 9, 2020
Diver’s paradise
Detectives take chances when going after a suspect. At times some seek revenge or some kind while others might resort to murder. Here the voice of a The Neighbor who entered the home of Marybeth Ryberg cold and calculating took her life with a simple gunshot. While waiting for her husband Bill to return home this person ran different possibilities in his/ her mind in case someone was with him. Surprised and blindside the former detective fought back hard but lost the fight and his life ended but not before hearing the killer’s final thoughts and words. This was revenge for all the things he did to supposedly hurt others.
Living in a beautiful Caribbean climate in Bonaire , former Detective R. Conklin was about to enjoy another day basking in the sun, dealing with his hotel that he owns and waiting for his girlfriend Arabella .
But Tiffany and her new boyfriend, Lester enter the picture and things get tense and relationships are taut as Lester presents an odd persona and although he’s dating Tiffany who’s Mandy and why is he spending so much time with this person if he’s on vacation with Tiffany. Tensions rise and Roscoe and Tiffany along with Lester are going on a dive, but something causes them to abort when Lester is having trouble with a piece of equipment. Things go downhill as Roscoe takes time to unravel the information sent by his friend his former police precinct and sees two pieces of evidence that might point to something that was missed in their investigation. But questions won’t get answered as his contact cut him off.
Then the unthinkable happens and he, Arabella, Tiffany and Lester are going to have dinner, but Arabella is injured in what appears to be an accident but when he looks further, he learns was not.
Tiffany promises not to go on a solo dive and picking up Arabella from the hospital we meet her austere and cold older sister Ruth and then her husband Jan we learn about another death as Lester asks Roscoe to find Tiffany but when they do it’s too late why?
Questions left unanswered, did she really drown as Roscoe talks to someone that puts it in a different light and you realize that he was the target. Tiffany then he talks to someone who owns a bar who does not have a license and is found burned to death in the trunk of her car? Yet the police have no idea how to run this investigation and when Roscoe tries to shed some light in what he thinks he’s turned away and they refused to listen. Just who is covering up the truth? Who is behind the murders and why is Roscoe the target and why anyone close to him too? Added in they have a description of a specific car, yet the police predetermined their thoughts and refuse to go that extra mile why?
Looking at the ad and the note left he realizes it was a taunt or dare aimed at him. Like a challenge. It must be someone hiding in plain sight and the author hands us more twists as the police bring Roscoe in, Lester makes an accusation against him, and Arabella questions their relationship. Someone wants him out of the way and lies, corruption, deceit and betrayals as author Davin Goodwin takes us in a hour of Bonaire an island filled with local color, a diverse population and beautiful waters, beaches and places to dive you feel like you’re welcome and there.
Things begin to come into place when Arabella makes a startling discovery and someone from the past , a case that was closed that would like to the deaths in the present. Was this person done and a murder case that he and Bill Ryberg handled but closed in a way causing them tension and friction in their relationship would come full circle, but will this person be stopped?
An ending that is heart stopping, tension filled and will take readers inside the mind of a delusional killer who just wanted revenge on anyone he thought caused someone in the past pay for something he thinks he didn’t do. As Roscoe and Ruth, Arabella’s sister is in the crosshairs of a dangerous killer will he be able to divert him and bring him down. Slow and methodically the author brings the final scene to a close but who will remain alive? Arabella is faced with a hard and fast career decision at the end and it will determine their future. Roscoe is smart and should get his private investigators license since he has an in, in the police department. His skills and power of observation are truly keen and he’s capable of doing more other than sitting on the beach, flying, diving and running his hotel but Ericka does the work and he gets to do his own thing. Roscoe is smart and can further himself on this island and perhaps help the police really solve cases as they at first resented his help and in the end you won’t believe what happens Author Davin Goodwin keeps the pace fast, the action explosive and the scenes of this paradise vividly depicted that you the reader will want to take a long trip to this beautiful Caribbean Island. Lives are at stake, the suspense is high, the tension builds until the explosive ending,.Characters that are strong, beer that is plentiful, friendships that are tested as we hear the final shots and hopefully peace will return to this Diver’s Paradise.
Fran Lewis just reviews
Detectives take chances when going after a suspect. At times some seek revenge or some kind while others might resort to murder. Here the voice of a The Neighbor who entered the home of Marybeth Ryberg cold and calculating took her life with a simple gunshot. While waiting for her husband Bill to return home this person ran different possibilities in his/ her mind in case someone was with him. Surprised and blindside the former detective fought back hard but lost the fight and his life ended but not before hearing the killer’s final thoughts and words. This was revenge for all the things he did to supposedly hurt others.
Living in a beautiful Caribbean climate in Bonaire , former Detective R. Conklin was about to enjoy another day basking in the sun, dealing with his hotel that he owns and waiting for his girlfriend Arabella .
But Tiffany and her new boyfriend, Lester enter the picture and things get tense and relationships are taut as Lester presents an odd persona and although he’s dating Tiffany who’s Mandy and why is he spending so much time with this person if he’s on vacation with Tiffany. Tensions rise and Roscoe and Tiffany along with Lester are going on a dive, but something causes them to abort when Lester is having trouble with a piece of equipment. Things go downhill as Roscoe takes time to unravel the information sent by his friend his former police precinct and sees two pieces of evidence that might point to something that was missed in their investigation. But questions won’t get answered as his contact cut him off.
Then the unthinkable happens and he, Arabella, Tiffany and Lester are going to have dinner, but Arabella is injured in what appears to be an accident but when he looks further, he learns was not.
Tiffany promises not to go on a solo dive and picking up Arabella from the hospital we meet her austere and cold older sister Ruth and then her husband Jan we learn about another death as Lester asks Roscoe to find Tiffany but when they do it’s too late why?
Questions left unanswered, did she really drown as Roscoe talks to someone that puts it in a different light and you realize that he was the target. Tiffany then he talks to someone who owns a bar who does not have a license and is found burned to death in the trunk of her car? Yet the police have no idea how to run this investigation and when Roscoe tries to shed some light in what he thinks he’s turned away and they refused to listen. Just who is covering up the truth? Who is behind the murders and why is Roscoe the target and why anyone close to him too? Added in they have a description of a specific car, yet the police predetermined their thoughts and refuse to go that extra mile why?
Looking at the ad and the note left he realizes it was a taunt or dare aimed at him. Like a challenge. It must be someone hiding in plain sight and the author hands us more twists as the police bring Roscoe in, Lester makes an accusation against him, and Arabella questions their relationship. Someone wants him out of the way and lies, corruption, deceit and betrayals as author Davin Goodwin takes us in a hour of Bonaire an island filled with local color, a diverse population and beautiful waters, beaches and places to dive you feel like you’re welcome and there.
Things begin to come into place when Arabella makes a startling discovery and someone from the past , a case that was closed that would like to the deaths in the present. Was this person done and a murder case that he and Bill Ryberg handled but closed in a way causing them tension and friction in their relationship would come full circle, but will this person be stopped?
An ending that is heart stopping, tension filled and will take readers inside the mind of a delusional killer who just wanted revenge on anyone he thought caused someone in the past pay for something he thinks he didn’t do. As Roscoe and Ruth, Arabella’s sister is in the crosshairs of a dangerous killer will he be able to divert him and bring him down. Slow and methodically the author brings the final scene to a close but who will remain alive? Arabella is faced with a hard and fast career decision at the end and it will determine their future. Roscoe is smart and should get his private investigators license since he has an in, in the police department. His skills and power of observation are truly keen and he’s capable of doing more other than sitting on the beach, flying, diving and running his hotel but Ericka does the work and he gets to do his own thing. Roscoe is smart and can further himself on this island and perhaps help the police really solve cases as they at first resented his help and in the end you won’t believe what happens Author Davin Goodwin keeps the pace fast, the action explosive and the scenes of this paradise vividly depicted that you the reader will want to take a long trip to this beautiful Caribbean Island. Lives are at stake, the suspense is high, the tension builds until the explosive ending,.Characters that are strong, beer that is plentiful, friendships that are tested as we hear the final shots and hopefully peace will return to this Diver’s Paradise.
Fran Lewis just reviews
June 11, 2020
I continue to dabble in smaller mysteries, based in places I have never heard of before. The setting here is Bonaire, a Caribbean island which is a municipality of Netherlands! Our hero is a retired cop who is well into middle age and running a guesthouse. In the very beginning, we are given an introduction to the evil killer but soon after we are sent to the island to meet its inhabitants.
The plot of the story was quite simple while keeping certain crucial bits secret until the very end. Without those parts, we cannot make an educated guess, and I would not recommend anyone try. People of different nationalities live together on the island and how they all rub along together forms a large part of the narrative. It was quite entertaining to meet such a diverse cast of people. There were moments of humour in between, but for the most part, there was a continues atmosphere of ‘wrongness’. There were some characters who were hard to like (and some with good reason). I will not divulge much more than this, mostly because there is a sequence of introductions of the cast and knowing them beforehand will rob a bit of the read. Overall, it is a good start to a new series (if there are to be more books with the same central characters).
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based only on my own reading experience.
The plot of the story was quite simple while keeping certain crucial bits secret until the very end. Without those parts, we cannot make an educated guess, and I would not recommend anyone try. People of different nationalities live together on the island and how they all rub along together forms a large part of the narrative. It was quite entertaining to meet such a diverse cast of people. There were moments of humour in between, but for the most part, there was a continues atmosphere of ‘wrongness’. There were some characters who were hard to like (and some with good reason). I will not divulge much more than this, mostly because there is a sequence of introductions of the cast and knowing them beforehand will rob a bit of the read. Overall, it is a good start to a new series (if there are to be more books with the same central characters).
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based only on my own reading experience.
February 3, 2020
I received an ARC copy of Diver's Paradise from Davin Goodwin himself! I am lucky enough to work with him at his 9 to 5 job, and was honored to receive a copy. Overall, it was an easy read that had a plot and characters that drew me in from the start. Throughout the novel it had me thinking, and trying to figure out who was causing all these murders in paradise! It was also fun to see some personal connections Goodwin was able to integrate into the story (names, references to his home state of WI etc). Based on how Diver's Paradise ended it sounds like Roscoe Conklin is never going to be "officially" retired! Bad for him, but good for readers like me that want to dive into another one of Goodwin's novels! My short review it this...Great read! I didn't want to put it down, and I am hoping for a second book!
November 20, 2019
It's not supposed to snow in November, but it did. Fortunately, with the heat in my home cranked up, I was transported to the Caribbean island of Bonaire via DIVER'S PARADISE. Davin Goodwin's debut novel introduces Roscoe Conklin, a retired detective whose idyllic life on the island is shattered by a series of devastating events.
I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy from the author. Goodwin has created engaging characters and an intriguing plot. Additionally, I learned a lot about Bonaire and scuba diving.
Goodwin's ability to paint pictures with words provided the mini-vacation I needed on a frigid day. Forget the weather outside, grab a beer and meet Roscoe Conklin in DIVER'S PARADISE!
I was lucky enough to receive an Advanced Reading Copy from the author. Goodwin has created engaging characters and an intriguing plot. Additionally, I learned a lot about Bonaire and scuba diving.
Goodwin's ability to paint pictures with words provided the mini-vacation I needed on a frigid day. Forget the weather outside, grab a beer and meet Roscoe Conklin in DIVER'S PARADISE!
November 7, 2019
I met Author, Davin Goodwin at Bouchercon in Dallas
TX. I received his new book, Diver's Paradise, an
"advanced review copy", for reading and giving an honest
review. I was hooked from the 1st page! You will love
Roscoe Conklin, a retired Detective from Rockford Ill.
who moved to an island in the Caribbean. His retirement
is derailed when his former partner is murdered. A
great murder mystery that keeps you turning the pages.
A great read I highly recommend. Book releases 4/7/2020
but can be pre- ordered now.
TX. I received his new book, Diver's Paradise, an
"advanced review copy", for reading and giving an honest
review. I was hooked from the 1st page! You will love
Roscoe Conklin, a retired Detective from Rockford Ill.
who moved to an island in the Caribbean. His retirement
is derailed when his former partner is murdered. A
great murder mystery that keeps you turning the pages.
A great read I highly recommend. Book releases 4/7/2020
but can be pre- ordered now.
November 18, 2019
Diver’s Paradise is one of the few mysteries that I could not put down once I started reading. Goodwin skillfully keeps the reader engaged using detailed knowledge throughout regarding diving and detective work and he couples this approach with the authenticity of human relationships. If you enjoy mysteries, this is a well-written, suspenseful book for the top of your reading list. I eagerly await the next book in the Roscoe Conklin series! I received an Advanced Review Copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2020
Strong opening. Loved the mystique of the term “The Neighbor.” At this point all I knew was he is cold and calculating, but I wanted to know more. Excellent job of introducing and developing characters. Liked the inclusion of Papiamentu. Detailed description of crime scene documents put me right there reviewing them with R.
March 7, 2020
We own a place on Bonaire and a friend (who seems to be a character in the book) gave me an advanced copy. I really loved the twists and also loved being able to picture where things were on the island. I could pretty much guess the real names of the places. It is a really good first book and I will look forward to more Roscoe Conklin books in the future!
January 25, 2020
Received an ARC copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Since I live in Rockford and spend four months of the year on Bonaire, I appreciate Mr. Goodwin’s attention to detail. Hope we’ll see another Roscoe Conklin mystery adventure soon.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Since I live in Rockford and spend four months of the year on Bonaire, I appreciate Mr. Goodwin’s attention to detail. Hope we’ll see another Roscoe Conklin mystery adventure soon.
March 18, 2020
Good start to a series.
I won this on Goodreads. If you like Caribbean island settings, scuba diving, fishing and characters who'd rather drink a beer than replace a lightbulb in a resort room, you'll like Roscoe Conklin. This was an enjoyable, escapist read for me.
I won this on Goodreads. If you like Caribbean island settings, scuba diving, fishing and characters who'd rather drink a beer than replace a lightbulb in a resort room, you'll like Roscoe Conklin. This was an enjoyable, escapist read for me.
April 11, 2020
Pretty wild. Lots of suspense
May 22, 2020
Won in a Goodreads Giveaway.
April 10, 2022
Not sure what I can say about this book. Nice setting in the tropical Carribbean, but that's where the positives end. Plot is not that exciting and it's very predictable. Two stars is about the most I can give.
November 13, 2019
Great Story! I am one of the privileged few to get an ARC of Diver’s Paradise.
Being from Rockford, Illinois, a frequent visitor to Bonaire and a law enforcement defensive tactics instructor for 15 years, I was both excited and skeptical to get my hands on the advanced reader’s copy.
Davin did a great job in many areas of the story;
He spends the right amount of time building the characters and establishing the relationships in which the reader becomes involved. I felt like these were real people that I knew. I had to know what was going to happen to them next.
The attention to subtle detail as he walks you through important events as they unfold. You feel the years of experience and pain of Roscoe Conklin’s career.
Davin really captures the overall feel of life on Bonaire, and draws out the nuances between Islanders, divers and the “Cruisers.”
The story grabbed me, whisked me away to Bonaire, and didn’t let me put the book down. It was a great weekend read as I sat on the roof of my building getting to know this cast of new friends.
I’m excitedly looking forward to more of Roscoe Conklin.
Being from Rockford, Illinois, a frequent visitor to Bonaire and a law enforcement defensive tactics instructor for 15 years, I was both excited and skeptical to get my hands on the advanced reader’s copy.
Davin did a great job in many areas of the story;
He spends the right amount of time building the characters and establishing the relationships in which the reader becomes involved. I felt like these were real people that I knew. I had to know what was going to happen to them next.
The attention to subtle detail as he walks you through important events as they unfold. You feel the years of experience and pain of Roscoe Conklin’s career.
Davin really captures the overall feel of life on Bonaire, and draws out the nuances between Islanders, divers and the “Cruisers.”
The story grabbed me, whisked me away to Bonaire, and didn’t let me put the book down. It was a great weekend read as I sat on the roof of my building getting to know this cast of new friends.
I’m excitedly looking forward to more of Roscoe Conklin.
January 29, 2020
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review:
Curled up in my favorite chair by the cozy wood burning stove in my home in the Northwoods, I opened Diver’s Paradise to page one. I found myself only able to stop to eat and sleep - okay, and refill my wine glass! Goodwin shocks you into his reality, capturing your attention in the first scene with great fluidity and his heady detail. Then, quickly transporting you to Bonaire, (I’ve never been there, but now I feel like I could navigate the island like a local), Goodwin sets a brisk pace and artfully takes you in and out of action, only giving you time to catch your breath before the next curve on this roller coaster. I felt like I needed a “Bright” when I closed the cover on this wonderful read! Congratulations to Davin Goodwin on his debut novel - I’ll be sharing it with family and friends upon it’s release and I look forward to Roscoe Conklin’s next encounter.
Curled up in my favorite chair by the cozy wood burning stove in my home in the Northwoods, I opened Diver’s Paradise to page one. I found myself only able to stop to eat and sleep - okay, and refill my wine glass! Goodwin shocks you into his reality, capturing your attention in the first scene with great fluidity and his heady detail. Then, quickly transporting you to Bonaire, (I’ve never been there, but now I feel like I could navigate the island like a local), Goodwin sets a brisk pace and artfully takes you in and out of action, only giving you time to catch your breath before the next curve on this roller coaster. I felt like I needed a “Bright” when I closed the cover on this wonderful read! Congratulations to Davin Goodwin on his debut novel - I’ll be sharing it with family and friends upon it’s release and I look forward to Roscoe Conklin’s next encounter.
December 12, 2019
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Goodwin’s Diver’s Paradise and was blown away by this debut novel. Goodwin expertly sets the scene with characters who feel like friends and a mystery that had me turning the pages well into the night. If you’re looking for a mystery that’s near-impossible to put down, look no further than Diver’s Paradise. I have already pre-ordered multiple copies for friends and family who love the genre and can’t wait to introduce them to my new favorite author. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
March 9, 2020
This book will provide many a comfortable read with an interesting and somewhat twisty story.
3 stars
My thanks to goodreads and the book's giveaway sponsors for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.
3 stars
My thanks to goodreads and the book's giveaway sponsors for the opportunity to obtain and read a copy of this book.
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