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Lowcountry Punch
They call him The Pretender. He's one of the best undercover agents in the DEA.
But breaking into high-society Charleston might just kill him.
After his fiancé leaves him on Christmas Eve, DEA Agent T.A. Reddick leaves Miami for Charleston, SC, hoping a return to his southern roots will heal a wounded heart and the guilt of killing a friend.
The sleepy and sultry city of Charleston is filled with echoes of the Old South: genteel playboys, society debutantes, and quiet cobblestone streets.
But as Reddick will soon discover, there’s danger lurking under her charming veneer. When a movie star’s death shines a national spotlight on the port city’s cocaine trade, the man they call The Pretender must risk his life in a massive undercover operation that threatens to expose some of the most powerful players of high-society Charleston.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
July 2, 2018
This story about a D.E.A. agent involved in an undercover sting started out okay, but it was done in by the sappy love story. You know, I can't even remember the main character's name, but the woman he fell for is named Liz. And she's perfect. We know this because what's-his-name tells us that - again and again. He gushes over her, he rhapsodizes about her. He writes her name in all his notebooks. From the meet-cute beginnings through the cheesy dialogue to the awkward sex scenes . . . I'm pretty sure there is more romance here than crime novel. Or, maybe it just seemed that way.
I see that a lot of people really liked this book, and I"m guessing if you haven't read much crime fiction, it may appeal to you. But, I've read so much REALLY GOOD crime just this year, - Pick-Up, The Winter of Frankie Machine, Black Wings Has My Angel - this book just can't compete. So, read at your own risk, but be forewarned - this is more cozy mystery/chick-lit than real crime.
I see that a lot of people really liked this book, and I"m guessing if you haven't read much crime fiction, it may appeal to you. But, I've read so much REALLY GOOD crime just this year, - Pick-Up, The Winter of Frankie Machine, Black Wings Has My Angel - this book just can't compete. So, read at your own risk, but be forewarned - this is more cozy mystery/chick-lit than real crime.
March 16, 2012
I had fun with this book. I read thrillers to relax my brain and keep it from overloading on serious stuff for work. So among the volume of thrillers I consume this one stood out mainly because of the hero/protagonist.
Quick summary (no spoiler) TA Reddick is a DEA agent who suffers the simultaneous tragedies of his wife leaving him, and the accidental killing of a friend. So he did what most of us would do in that situation, he goes back to his hometown (Charleston, SC) to get re-energized by his family; but while he's there, he discovers there's some bad related crime going on that threatens his family and friends.
Ok, it sounds like the usual thriller script, but that's where the "usual" descriptions end. The protagonist TA Reddick is wonderfully rendered. You not only end up rooting for him, you almost wish he lived on your street so you can hang out with him. He's tough as nails but has a really relatable (for guys) weakness for women. (And I'm not talking about the vulgar kind). The author has given Reddick a really unique personality, and his inner struggles are just as complex as the outer. The action and plot twists are great, (it really keeps you guessing) but I liked his inner arc, rare for thrillers, especially for debut novelists.
The other aspect that makes this book great is the setting. You really get a flavor of the Old South. Leads me to believe the author is from there, but at any rate, it's very well done. The writing is quality and fast paced, so overall, a fun, textured read.
Quick summary (no spoiler) TA Reddick is a DEA agent who suffers the simultaneous tragedies of his wife leaving him, and the accidental killing of a friend. So he did what most of us would do in that situation, he goes back to his hometown (Charleston, SC) to get re-energized by his family; but while he's there, he discovers there's some bad related crime going on that threatens his family and friends.
Ok, it sounds like the usual thriller script, but that's where the "usual" descriptions end. The protagonist TA Reddick is wonderfully rendered. You not only end up rooting for him, you almost wish he lived on your street so you can hang out with him. He's tough as nails but has a really relatable (for guys) weakness for women. (And I'm not talking about the vulgar kind). The author has given Reddick a really unique personality, and his inner struggles are just as complex as the outer. The action and plot twists are great, (it really keeps you guessing) but I liked his inner arc, rare for thrillers, especially for debut novelists.
The other aspect that makes this book great is the setting. You really get a flavor of the Old South. Leads me to believe the author is from there, but at any rate, it's very well done. The writing is quality and fast paced, so overall, a fun, textured read.
February 10, 2018
The thing with Boo Walker's writing is the ease with which he inserts narrative and associates emotion. I typically have not enjoyed First Person POV writing. Maybe because I'm a bit old-school, having learned to enjoy fiction in the day of Narrative-First writing. But if Boo Walker uses it, I'm all in. Walker is a master of pacing, but it is always intimately personal. His books all make for fast, immersed reads for me. The main characters all feel like personal friends, even the bad guys are accessible. The good, in-your-face humor exchanged constantly keeps it real. As I've grown to expect in Walker's work, the main character is deeply damaged goods, working towards redemption and trying to make a real connection with another person. The other high point for me was how the author's familiarity with the setting made me want to visit Charleston, SC, a city I've never visited. If you enjoy well-paced police (DEA in this case) procedurals with a solid hook, lessons and some great twists, enjoy boating and ample music references and Tom Waits mentions, don't pass this book up!
June 17, 2015
4.5 stars
TA Reddick is a Federal Agent for the Drug Enforcement Administration in Miami. He and his partner are working an undercover drug ring and just getting ready to meet for a cocaine exchange in a multi storey garage. When they meet the two sellers TA recognises them as Diego and Robert Vasquez. Robert is a cop and a good friend of TA’s who had saved his life the year before. In the ensuing shoot out, Robert is killed and TA’s partner is injured. Diego Vasquez escapes.
It’s Christmas Eve and the worst night of TA’s life. He’s shot and killed his friend and his fiancée, and long time love, Anna, has left him on what was to be their first Christmas together.
Fast forward several months and TA is back home in Charleston, dealing with guilt and a broken heart, working with the local branch of the DEA. When a famous movie star, who is in Charleston filming, falls from his hotel balcony while high on cocaine, the DEA comes under pressure to crack the drug cartel and find the supplier.
TA is back working undercover to infiltrate the drug ring operating in Charleston and Savannah. Things get very complicated with a new love, a stalker who saves the day and unexpected and surprising twists in the plot.
The story is told exclusively from TA’s perspective and he’s a man full of interesting characteristics. Principled but ruthless and tough in his job, doing what is necessary, yet able to communicate his feelings honestly. He’s witty, engaging, and a very good musician. Emotional awareness and music serve to soften TA’s character and lessen considerably the conventional tough guy image.
The supporting characters are equally well defined and diverse. An excellent and well paced narrative includes lots of action and humour and gives an interesting and very visual quality with rich descriptions of the old South setting. The framework of the drug trade and the DEA’s investigative procedures are detailed and obviously well researched. A most enjoyable story enhanced by a terrific performance by RC Bray. I’ve since downloaded, and look forward to, Mr Walker’s other two books also narrated by RC Bray.
TA Reddick is a Federal Agent for the Drug Enforcement Administration in Miami. He and his partner are working an undercover drug ring and just getting ready to meet for a cocaine exchange in a multi storey garage. When they meet the two sellers TA recognises them as Diego and Robert Vasquez. Robert is a cop and a good friend of TA’s who had saved his life the year before. In the ensuing shoot out, Robert is killed and TA’s partner is injured. Diego Vasquez escapes.
It’s Christmas Eve and the worst night of TA’s life. He’s shot and killed his friend and his fiancée, and long time love, Anna, has left him on what was to be their first Christmas together.
Fast forward several months and TA is back home in Charleston, dealing with guilt and a broken heart, working with the local branch of the DEA. When a famous movie star, who is in Charleston filming, falls from his hotel balcony while high on cocaine, the DEA comes under pressure to crack the drug cartel and find the supplier.
TA is back working undercover to infiltrate the drug ring operating in Charleston and Savannah. Things get very complicated with a new love, a stalker who saves the day and unexpected and surprising twists in the plot.
The story is told exclusively from TA’s perspective and he’s a man full of interesting characteristics. Principled but ruthless and tough in his job, doing what is necessary, yet able to communicate his feelings honestly. He’s witty, engaging, and a very good musician. Emotional awareness and music serve to soften TA’s character and lessen considerably the conventional tough guy image.
The supporting characters are equally well defined and diverse. An excellent and well paced narrative includes lots of action and humour and gives an interesting and very visual quality with rich descriptions of the old South setting. The framework of the drug trade and the DEA’s investigative procedures are detailed and obviously well researched. A most enjoyable story enhanced by a terrific performance by RC Bray. I’ve since downloaded, and look forward to, Mr Walker’s other two books also narrated by RC Bray.
May 1, 2012
This is one of those "don't judge a book by its cover" situations. Of course, now that I read the book I understand the cover more than I did before.
I'm glad I got to read this book. It made me stay glued to my e-reader and glare at anyone who dared to interrupt me (yes, I'm that type of reader). It was a very fast-paced mystery novel and I truly, truly loved it.
It's been a while since I've read a story that's told only from the hero's perspective. I forgot how fun it was to be inside a guy's head. TA Reddick is actually a fun character. I liked his sense of humor, the fact that he was brutally honest with everyone, the fact that he was able to admit his feelings without thinking he was less of a man for talking about them. I loved his sense of justice and the fact that he was able to do the right thing even if he didn't like it. I respected him for that a lot and that's probably why a lot of the people he worked with and people who knew him respected him. He was an incredible character, one of those that stick with you even after you've finished reading the book.
There were a lot of scenes full of suspense and those scenes kept me on the edge of my seat a lot. Also, there were moments that were very funny and tender moments and some sad ones. It had everything I could ask for from a mystery novel and I couldn't be happier.
I'm actually sitting here hoping there will be a second book with this character. It's easy to love him and I feel like I could spend a lot of time reading about his adventures and his cases. I think this is one of those "must-reads". Especially if you're a mystery thriller fan.
I'm glad I got to read this book. It made me stay glued to my e-reader and glare at anyone who dared to interrupt me (yes, I'm that type of reader). It was a very fast-paced mystery novel and I truly, truly loved it.
It's been a while since I've read a story that's told only from the hero's perspective. I forgot how fun it was to be inside a guy's head. TA Reddick is actually a fun character. I liked his sense of humor, the fact that he was brutally honest with everyone, the fact that he was able to admit his feelings without thinking he was less of a man for talking about them. I loved his sense of justice and the fact that he was able to do the right thing even if he didn't like it. I respected him for that a lot and that's probably why a lot of the people he worked with and people who knew him respected him. He was an incredible character, one of those that stick with you even after you've finished reading the book.
There were a lot of scenes full of suspense and those scenes kept me on the edge of my seat a lot. Also, there were moments that were very funny and tender moments and some sad ones. It had everything I could ask for from a mystery novel and I couldn't be happier.
I'm actually sitting here hoping there will be a second book with this character. It's easy to love him and I feel like I could spend a lot of time reading about his adventures and his cases. I think this is one of those "must-reads". Especially if you're a mystery thriller fan.
January 30, 2021
This book is a thriller written by Boo Walker using the name of Benjamin Blackmore. It is what I would call a "guy book" full of action.
"After one of the worst nights of his life, DEA Agent T.A. Reddick leaves Miami for Charleston, SC, hoping a return to his roots will heal a wounded heart and the guilt of killing a friend. The sleepy and sultry city of Charleston is filled with echoes of the Old South: genteel playboys, society debutantes, and quiet cobblestone streets. But as Reddick will soon discover, there’s danger lurking under her charming veneer. When a movie star’s death shines a national spotlight on Charleston’s underground cocaine trade, he must go undercover to find the main supplier and shut him down. As a hurricane bears down on the port city and the DEA gets ready to spring its trap, Reddick must contend with more than he ever could have imagined.
Brash and bold, TA Reddick is a hero you won’t soon forget. Lowcountry Punch is an action-packed novel that will have you on your knees begging for more." Well written.
"After one of the worst nights of his life, DEA Agent T.A. Reddick leaves Miami for Charleston, SC, hoping a return to his roots will heal a wounded heart and the guilt of killing a friend. The sleepy and sultry city of Charleston is filled with echoes of the Old South: genteel playboys, society debutantes, and quiet cobblestone streets. But as Reddick will soon discover, there’s danger lurking under her charming veneer. When a movie star’s death shines a national spotlight on Charleston’s underground cocaine trade, he must go undercover to find the main supplier and shut him down. As a hurricane bears down on the port city and the DEA gets ready to spring its trap, Reddick must contend with more than he ever could have imagined.
Brash and bold, TA Reddick is a hero you won’t soon forget. Lowcountry Punch is an action-packed novel that will have you on your knees begging for more." Well written.
May 10, 2018
This story starts off with a bang, with two rock ’em—sock ’em incidents in the first three chapters. I hope Walker can continue it over the rest of the book.
This book had all the elements of a good mystery/suspense novel in the right proportions.
Walker dropped the realism ball one place. Riddick gets the crap beaten out of him – punched, kicked, and pistol-whipped – to the point where he is nearly unconscious with several broken ribs and a busted nose in Chapter 37. Four chapters later, he’s chasing the bad guy through a muddy marsh in the middle of a hurricane. Um, no.
Riddick does a little too much introspection for my taste and the ending was just a touch too pat (and cute) but Walker’s overall storytelling ability makes up for it.
Those two little quibbles aside, Walker did keep the book rolling along right to the end.
I’ll read more Riddick stories if Walker writes them.
This book had all the elements of a good mystery/suspense novel in the right proportions.
Walker dropped the realism ball one place. Riddick gets the crap beaten out of him – punched, kicked, and pistol-whipped – to the point where he is nearly unconscious with several broken ribs and a busted nose in Chapter 37. Four chapters later, he’s chasing the bad guy through a muddy marsh in the middle of a hurricane. Um, no.
Riddick does a little too much introspection for my taste and the ending was just a touch too pat (and cute) but Walker’s overall storytelling ability makes up for it.
Those two little quibbles aside, Walker did keep the book rolling along right to the end.
I’ll read more Riddick stories if Walker writes them.
February 9, 2022
Boo if you played he Uke as well as you crafted this book, I missed a great treat. Love the blues, jazz and old country music. Loved this book. Not the kind of books I read on a regular basis but needed a change and read another of his books. Very creative story about a DEA agent and his undercover woos but also his problem with a women, not one but 4. A murdered father, an aversion to drugs and a strong desire to get the big guys keeps him in his job. Some romance, if you could call it that.
May 13, 2021
I loved the Red Mountain trilogy and other books written by this author, and I'm waiting for the release of his next book, The Singing Trees. So, in the meantime, I thought I'd try reading the mystery books he wrote under a pseudonym. But, I'm not big on mysteries, and even less enamored by the drug culture, so after completing the 14th chapter, I decided to put the book aside. His writing flows well, but the book just doesn't grab me, mostly because of the story.
December 27, 2016
I listened to the audio version of this book and the only reason I rated it 3 stars is because it takes place in the SC Lowcountry and I always enjoy references to home. I felt the story was unrealistic and shallow. Only mild curiosity as to the outcome kept me listening to the end. Overall, just very disappointed.
As a side note, my husband wasn't really entertained either.
As a side note, my husband wasn't really entertained either.
January 6, 2018
I obtained this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. This was a boring, rambling story about a DEA agent trying to infiltrate a cocaine ring between Charleston and Atlanta. I try to commit to finishing a story once I start and this book made that difficult to do. I was very happy when I reached the end.
April 29, 2018
The main character, T. A. Reddick, carries this story well. Between his fearlessness on the job as a lawman, and his troubles with women, his optimistic attitude allows him to forge forward. I'm hoping the author will decide to revisit the character in another book. He's worth another look, and so is his lady love.
April 29, 2018
With a name like Boo, I had to give it a try, and am I glad I did! Very well written story with lots of action, suspense, and a bit of romance thrown in to keep it exciting. If the romantic scenes had been as well painted as the action scenes, it would have rated 5 stars. But alas, a good suspense thriller that is cleanly edited and an exciting read.
August 12, 2018
Since chapter 1
I have been mentally writing this review!!! This writer has it All! I can't wait to read his next one. Bright, practical, intellectual, fairly moral.... I love him and his writing. Well defined plot, logically carried through, no stupid "poor me" angst, just interesting writing that won't let the reader go.
I have been mentally writing this review!!! This writer has it All! I can't wait to read his next one. Bright, practical, intellectual, fairly moral.... I love him and his writing. Well defined plot, logically carried through, no stupid "poor me" angst, just interesting writing that won't let the reader go.
September 30, 2017
Excellent book set in the"Holy City".
I was born in Charleston but never lived there last 1 year. I visit often so following the plot through the streets and marshes were surreal. I actually could smell the pluff mud that only a person who has walked in it can appreciate.
I was born in Charleston but never lived there last 1 year. I visit often so following the plot through the streets and marshes were surreal. I actually could smell the pluff mud that only a person who has walked in it can appreciate.
March 14, 2018
Great book
Not a book I woyukd typically read, but like Red Mountain so I tried another book by the author. He is very good and bringing you right into the story, right into Charlreston. I recommend it to anyone but if you like a good cop story in the south you would love it.
Not a book I woyukd typically read, but like Red Mountain so I tried another book by the author. He is very good and bringing you right into the story, right into Charlreston. I recommend it to anyone but if you like a good cop story in the south you would love it.
April 21, 2018
Enthralled
This is only my second Boo Walker read and I can truly say I am a fan! I could hardly put this book down to get a good night's sleep. If you are new to Mr. Walker's writing you are in for a treat. Carve out the hours and prepare to be engrossed for the duration!
This is only my second Boo Walker read and I can truly say I am a fan! I could hardly put this book down to get a good night's sleep. If you are new to Mr. Walker's writing you are in for a treat. Carve out the hours and prepare to be engrossed for the duration!
July 4, 2018
Ok..if you like mystery
Reads more like a movie or made for TV movie script...lots of action and fight scenes...most of it tho is a travelogue for Charleston sc. many description of various spots around town..lots of local color.
Reads more like a movie or made for TV movie script...lots of action and fight scenes...most of it tho is a travelogue for Charleston sc. many description of various spots around town..lots of local color.
November 23, 2018
Hard to put down
I've read three of Boo's books and enjoyed them all. His stories seem to have the right mixture of action, love and interest. I had evenings that I just couldn't put it down, and learned something about wine!
I've read three of Boo's books and enjoyed them all. His stories seem to have the right mixture of action, love and interest. I had evenings that I just couldn't put it down, and learned something about wine!
October 8, 2019
I just finished this book, an amazing, full of action and on the edge of your seat mystery.
I know I held my breath while reading it. I can't say enough about this author, and his writing, except that your missing some great reading if you haven't read his books.
I know I held my breath while reading it. I can't say enough about this author, and his writing, except that your missing some great reading if you haven't read his books.
September 25, 2022
Caught me again!
From the Pacific to the Atlantic, following Boo's writings. Another read worth staying up all night to finish. (Being now retired, I have the luxury of doing so.) On to the next adventure....
From the Pacific to the Atlantic, following Boo's writings. Another read worth staying up all night to finish. (Being now retired, I have the luxury of doing so.) On to the next adventure....
January 23, 2025
Don't give up on Walker/Blackmore
This was much more like what o expected from Boo Walker. Much better than ONCE A SOLDIER . Realistic story line and great character development. I enjoyed this one and look forward to more from Walker / Blackmore.
This was much more like what o expected from Boo Walker. Much better than ONCE A SOLDIER . Realistic story line and great character development. I enjoyed this one and look forward to more from Walker / Blackmore.
August 24, 2025
Great Story
Every book by this author is first rate. Great characters, great plot, and an eventful conclusion. This one starts off a little slowly, but once it gets going, it’s hard to put down.
Every book by this author is first rate. Great characters, great plot, and an eventful conclusion. This one starts off a little slowly, but once it gets going, it’s hard to put down.
November 20, 2025
A BODEGA BOOK
Bodegas have a little something for everyone, and so does this story. Slight correction, it has a LOT for its readers....even a quirky character. Romance, sex, cop shop goings on, BAD guys, great action and a satisfying finish. What more can we ask for?
Bodegas have a little something for everyone, and so does this story. Slight correction, it has a LOT for its readers....even a quirky character. Romance, sex, cop shop goings on, BAD guys, great action and a satisfying finish. What more can we ask for?
December 7, 2025
It was a change of genre'
I enjoyed the lead character. He had his demons as we all do,very relateable.
I enjoy reading books under the authors pen name, just to see how the writing style changes like they are channelling their alter egos.
Very interesting
I enjoyed the lead character. He had his demons as we all do,very relateable.
I enjoy reading books under the authors pen name, just to see how the writing style changes like they are channelling their alter egos.
Very interesting
December 13, 2025
A Treat!
Pure entertainment. This is a story that the words can't be read fast enough. Can't wait to see what will happen next. A little bit of everything, except science fiction. Love, life, suspense and humor!
Pure entertainment. This is a story that the words can't be read fast enough. Can't wait to see what will happen next. A little bit of everything, except science fiction. Love, life, suspense and humor!
May 18, 2017
It took a little bit for me to get used to the writing style, but it did end up growing on me. I liked the plot of the story overall.
August 2, 2017
VERY EXCITING AND THOROUGH FROM START TO FINISH. THE CHARACTERS PERSONALITIES SHOWED THROUGH IN EVER PARAGRAPH. I DIDN'T THINK IT WOULD END LIKE IT DID, IT WAS PERFECT!
September 20, 2017
A real page turner
Found the book to be fast paced and thrilling. Loved the Low Country settling. A suspense-filled book that you can't put down.
Found the book to be fast paced and thrilling. Loved the Low Country settling. A suspense-filled book that you can't put down.
October 26, 2017
Good read. Like these stories that have plots but also tell you about the locales.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews