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Dave Garrett #1
The January Corpse
Seven years after Daniel Wilson's mysterious disappearance, the artist's family, eager to settle his estate, hires private eye Dave Garrett to find evidence of Wilson's death, but death threats and a tangle with the mob make Garrett's job difficult
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
6 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Neil Albert
14 books21 followersI am a trial lawyer, mystery writer, and retired foxhunter living in the Amish Country near Philadelphia. I started writing a series of mysteries in the 1990s and now I am returning to finish the series. I was very lucky to be published then, in the days when there were still independent bookstores and there was a chance to meet your fans face to face. As exciting as it was to be published, the best part was the fans, editors and other writers I met. Writing is far more collegial than people suspect.
I stopped the series in 1996 partly because I had run out of good ideas (I had plenty of bad ones) and because, at age 47, I had started riding horses for the first time in my life. Six months after my first ride I was fox hunting. It was very time intensive and the books went on the back burner. (And no, we do not kill the fox.) After twenty years and putting down my last hunt horse, I find myself with time on my hands and a need for a distraction.
I stopped the series in 1996 partly because I had run out of good ideas (I had plenty of bad ones) and because, at age 47, I had started riding horses for the first time in my life. Six months after my first ride I was fox hunting. It was very time intensive and the books went on the back burner. (And no, we do not kill the fox.) After twenty years and putting down my last hunt horse, I find myself with time on my hands and a need for a distraction.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
January 24, 2022
Now this is a mystery that I actually had enjoyed! Many of them I really don't like, like those cozy mysteries because they take too long to actually get into a case. But this book jumps into the story right away and there's no stalling or reading tons of unnecessary pages (and that is what I hate about those cozies the most - having to read 100+ pages that is just dull social chitchat and the crime didn't even happen yet).. Well relax because this book jumps into the plot right away!
And I like the no nonsense PI in here too. He used to be a lawyer but he got disbarred for a really dumb reason so he had to do something else as a living. For whatever reasons he decided to become a private investigator but he is tired of spying on husbands and wives sneaking out with other people. He wants a juicy case and boy oh boy did he find one ever! It involves a missing lawyer by the name of Danny. But is he really dead? Without a body how can you prove the guy is dead? And to make matters worse he only has a few days to find out! It's already Friday and the case is going to a judge on Monday. And to make matters worse, pretty soon someone is trying to kill him! So the danger level goes up pretty fast.
Another thing I like about the PI in here is he is smart. And he takes risks too. In fact this book has lots of action, danger, twists and even more twists. I really don't understand why this book has so few reviews or ratings as I had thought it was an excellent story. All the little details in here are amazing too. I can see a lot of research must have gone into writing this.
And the end surprised me too. Never saw that coming! But it was good.
And it's set in Pennsylvania. That is why you see the Amish horse & wagon on the cover, to represent Pennsylvania. And no, the Amish are not actually in the story but they are mentioned a few times. The author actually lives in Pennsylvania and the details about the areas in that state really come through. I had a pal living there and some of the places mentioned in this book were in her area.
And for some reason I really like this cover? I think part of it is that brilliant blue up at the top. But minus the Amish horse-drawn vehicle the cover image is accurate to the story: a car shot by bullets on a twisty lonely road, the driver missing...
In fact I liked this book enough I will most likely read the others in this series.
And by the way, I think it's pretty neat to read a book with the word January in the title in January!
And I like the no nonsense PI in here too. He used to be a lawyer but he got disbarred for a really dumb reason so he had to do something else as a living. For whatever reasons he decided to become a private investigator but he is tired of spying on husbands and wives sneaking out with other people. He wants a juicy case and boy oh boy did he find one ever! It involves a missing lawyer by the name of Danny. But is he really dead? Without a body how can you prove the guy is dead? And to make matters worse he only has a few days to find out! It's already Friday and the case is going to a judge on Monday. And to make matters worse, pretty soon someone is trying to kill him! So the danger level goes up pretty fast.
Another thing I like about the PI in here is he is smart. And he takes risks too. In fact this book has lots of action, danger, twists and even more twists. I really don't understand why this book has so few reviews or ratings as I had thought it was an excellent story. All the little details in here are amazing too. I can see a lot of research must have gone into writing this.
And the end surprised me too. Never saw that coming! But it was good.
And it's set in Pennsylvania. That is why you see the Amish horse & wagon on the cover, to represent Pennsylvania. And no, the Amish are not actually in the story but they are mentioned a few times. The author actually lives in Pennsylvania and the details about the areas in that state really come through. I had a pal living there and some of the places mentioned in this book were in her area.
And for some reason I really like this cover? I think part of it is that brilliant blue up at the top. But minus the Amish horse-drawn vehicle the cover image is accurate to the story: a car shot by bullets on a twisty lonely road, the driver missing...
In fact I liked this book enough I will most likely read the others in this series.
And by the way, I think it's pretty neat to read a book with the word January in the title in January!
January 22, 2024
The January Corpse
Investigations into missing people in this case disbarred lawyer now a private investigator in the cross hairs of organized crimes and possibly unknown enemies. When an old law school friend offers him to take on this case from the start it's questionable. Garrett is relentless and does the answers needed to find out what happened to Dan Wilson and if he's dead. For the law firm and his family to close on his estate they need proof of his death. With different takes about Dan but none claiming he would just vanish, why did he leave a bank with two suitcases filled with money? Talking to his neighbors, the lawyer, the police chief, and others you get different perspectives about Dan, yet some coincide.
Meeting with his neighbor, the police chief, his sister, the head of his law firm and even being threatened by a mob boss, Dan Wilson appears to be polite, a wonderful person, well-read, and yet distant in some respects. Using her appointment book, his girlfriend, Elizabeth presents a vivid and accurate portrait of Dan. Bouncy, cheerful, then moody and always disappearing on the weekend, he never shared what bothered him. Managed his own money, and bought her clothes, jewelry, and dinner, she wondered why he never stayed overnight, and she stated he kept his money in a safety deposit box in a bank. He wanted to buy things but never leave a trail or how he spent it in the past or future. Drinking but not drunk, recanted stories about WWTwo and pictures he took of her and the unexpected breakup in a short and unfeeling letter. Even his sister's account was sparse, and it seemed he either had a second life, feared trial dates coming up and Dave asked if he could find her if need be. Most stated he just disappeared the main boss just wished for something Dan had. Dave agreed to learn more and told him to put him in many dangerous places and situations.
Speaking to his law partner William Strasnick he gets several different takes on Dan until the harsh truths fly out about the law firm handling criminal cases, dealing with criminals, money connected to the mob and the connections to the cases, and the harsh reality of why Dan might have just vanished was he dead? Then Dave enters the home of Mrs. Wilson the mother and just what will she reveal?
It gets more intense after talking with his law partner and his mother was adamant, obstinate, and annoyed with his questioning. Car empty, bullet holes, nobody, blood, and then reminded of what his sister told him the stories are somewhat the same, and others are not. Visiting the crime scene helped to learn more about the car and its condition. Talking to the police chief about the cases and flashbacks about his ex-wife allows readers to get many pictures of his life but focusing on this case does not seem to be going too far to find the answers he needs. If Stranick was right Dan is dead,, but a visit to North Carbon to see Lisa might open up more answers.
Then searching for answers, he comes to Lisa’s house and is blindsided by two men who are there for the same things. He does not see it coming and gets hit, beaten and tided up but gazing at the window he sees an image and what follows is one of the best take-down scenes that you won’t expect. But Dave is seriously injured and wants to get moving to take down the person that these men claim they work for and find out who is behind what happened to Dan. A harsh revelation and the truth about what Lisa claims happened to Dan and the car. As Dave tries to center himself after his encounter with the two men and then hoping that revisiting the scene of the accident and then looking at the car that was involved will help him when he testifies in court on Monday. Three days to find the answers to a question that the police have not answered in seven years.
When Dave puts it all together and realizes who was behind what happened to Dan, he uncovers a frame up and an alliance with the mobs that he had to break up. Dave and the head of the cartel meet, each one giving the other what they want and one man will have to come up with it all. What really happened to Dan? What is the link to the criminal cases that his law firm got and that he wanted out? Lisa and Dave take changes, followed by the men hired to take them out, more chases and then a phone call that changes it all and what about the case for the family and the money? Who has the fifty thousand dollars? Who will pay back the mob? Lives are at stake and the author brilliantly connects the dots in an unusual and definitely creative way. As Dave and Lisa have a long talk and the money to the mob is paid, plus the person behind the entire coverup is found you won’t believe the startling revelation that that author created. What really happened to Dan? What is the fate of both Dave and Lisa? When you read the final chapters you won’t believe what you will uncover as truths, lies, the past, the future and hope to be accepted will endear you to the cast of the January Corpse? Just who is the January Corpse author Neil Albert knows the answers and you will have to read this compelling, heartbreaking and heart-warming novel to find out.
Fran Lewis Just reviews
Investigations into missing people in this case disbarred lawyer now a private investigator in the cross hairs of organized crimes and possibly unknown enemies. When an old law school friend offers him to take on this case from the start it's questionable. Garrett is relentless and does the answers needed to find out what happened to Dan Wilson and if he's dead. For the law firm and his family to close on his estate they need proof of his death. With different takes about Dan but none claiming he would just vanish, why did he leave a bank with two suitcases filled with money? Talking to his neighbors, the lawyer, the police chief, and others you get different perspectives about Dan, yet some coincide.
Meeting with his neighbor, the police chief, his sister, the head of his law firm and even being threatened by a mob boss, Dan Wilson appears to be polite, a wonderful person, well-read, and yet distant in some respects. Using her appointment book, his girlfriend, Elizabeth presents a vivid and accurate portrait of Dan. Bouncy, cheerful, then moody and always disappearing on the weekend, he never shared what bothered him. Managed his own money, and bought her clothes, jewelry, and dinner, she wondered why he never stayed overnight, and she stated he kept his money in a safety deposit box in a bank. He wanted to buy things but never leave a trail or how he spent it in the past or future. Drinking but not drunk, recanted stories about WWTwo and pictures he took of her and the unexpected breakup in a short and unfeeling letter. Even his sister's account was sparse, and it seemed he either had a second life, feared trial dates coming up and Dave asked if he could find her if need be. Most stated he just disappeared the main boss just wished for something Dan had. Dave agreed to learn more and told him to put him in many dangerous places and situations.
Speaking to his law partner William Strasnick he gets several different takes on Dan until the harsh truths fly out about the law firm handling criminal cases, dealing with criminals, money connected to the mob and the connections to the cases, and the harsh reality of why Dan might have just vanished was he dead? Then Dave enters the home of Mrs. Wilson the mother and just what will she reveal?
It gets more intense after talking with his law partner and his mother was adamant, obstinate, and annoyed with his questioning. Car empty, bullet holes, nobody, blood, and then reminded of what his sister told him the stories are somewhat the same, and others are not. Visiting the crime scene helped to learn more about the car and its condition. Talking to the police chief about the cases and flashbacks about his ex-wife allows readers to get many pictures of his life but focusing on this case does not seem to be going too far to find the answers he needs. If Stranick was right Dan is dead,, but a visit to North Carbon to see Lisa might open up more answers.
Then searching for answers, he comes to Lisa’s house and is blindsided by two men who are there for the same things. He does not see it coming and gets hit, beaten and tided up but gazing at the window he sees an image and what follows is one of the best take-down scenes that you won’t expect. But Dave is seriously injured and wants to get moving to take down the person that these men claim they work for and find out who is behind what happened to Dan. A harsh revelation and the truth about what Lisa claims happened to Dan and the car. As Dave tries to center himself after his encounter with the two men and then hoping that revisiting the scene of the accident and then looking at the car that was involved will help him when he testifies in court on Monday. Three days to find the answers to a question that the police have not answered in seven years.
When Dave puts it all together and realizes who was behind what happened to Dan, he uncovers a frame up and an alliance with the mobs that he had to break up. Dave and the head of the cartel meet, each one giving the other what they want and one man will have to come up with it all. What really happened to Dan? What is the link to the criminal cases that his law firm got and that he wanted out? Lisa and Dave take changes, followed by the men hired to take them out, more chases and then a phone call that changes it all and what about the case for the family and the money? Who has the fifty thousand dollars? Who will pay back the mob? Lives are at stake and the author brilliantly connects the dots in an unusual and definitely creative way. As Dave and Lisa have a long talk and the money to the mob is paid, plus the person behind the entire coverup is found you won’t believe the startling revelation that that author created. What really happened to Dan? What is the fate of both Dave and Lisa? When you read the final chapters you won’t believe what you will uncover as truths, lies, the past, the future and hope to be accepted will endear you to the cast of the January Corpse? Just who is the January Corpse author Neil Albert knows the answers and you will have to read this compelling, heartbreaking and heart-warming novel to find out.
Fran Lewis Just reviews
January 19, 2024
4.3
**Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
Disappearance, estate, deadline…
“A seven year old investigation with no leads. No one cared about it in years and after Monday, no one will ever care again.”
Dave Garrett is a disbarred lawyer currently working in Philadelphia as a private investigator. Dan Wilson disappeared seven years ago and now Dave has been hired to gather information before Monday’s hearing for declaring Dan legally dead. He has from Friday 11:00am to Monday 4:00pm to amass any evidence.
Many obstacles will confront Dave hindering his progress. Earlier investigations were threatened and now someone will try to disrupt Dave’s fact finding.
This was an action-packed read. Since the story time frame was only a weekend - many details were included in a concise way. Author wrote in a to-the-point manner.
Ideas were implied and suggested indirectly leading to the big reveal at the end. Lots of plot twists lead to an ending that should keep you guessing!
As a resident of PA, it’s always fun to read about a story set in PA in locations you are aware of!
I like the premise of a series of 12 books covering a year in Dave’s life. I would read future books!
**Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours for including me on this tour!
Disappearance, estate, deadline…
“A seven year old investigation with no leads. No one cared about it in years and after Monday, no one will ever care again.”
Dave Garrett is a disbarred lawyer currently working in Philadelphia as a private investigator. Dan Wilson disappeared seven years ago and now Dave has been hired to gather information before Monday’s hearing for declaring Dan legally dead. He has from Friday 11:00am to Monday 4:00pm to amass any evidence.
Many obstacles will confront Dave hindering his progress. Earlier investigations were threatened and now someone will try to disrupt Dave’s fact finding.
This was an action-packed read. Since the story time frame was only a weekend - many details were included in a concise way. Author wrote in a to-the-point manner.
Ideas were implied and suggested indirectly leading to the big reveal at the end. Lots of plot twists lead to an ending that should keep you guessing!
As a resident of PA, it’s always fun to read about a story set in PA in locations you are aware of!
I like the premise of a series of 12 books covering a year in Dave’s life. I would read future books!
September 2, 2021
For a first entry in the series, it was concise, brisk paced, and decently constructed with subtle clues and hints along the way.
Satisfactory characters from the legal and criminal worlds presented, yet nothing original or groundbreaking.
Edgy twist for the conclusion when it was written in '93, not so much in 2021.
I would pick up the next installment if I came acrossed it, but won't seek it out.
Thanks for reading.
Satisfactory characters from the legal and criminal worlds presented, yet nothing original or groundbreaking.
Edgy twist for the conclusion when it was written in '93, not so much in 2021.
I would pick up the next installment if I came acrossed it, but won't seek it out.
Thanks for reading.
January 29, 2024
The January Corpse is a PI Mystery. Former lawyer turned investigator Dave Garrett is picking up sloppy seconds with this case. The family of Daniel Wilson has filed suit to declare the man missing for 7 years as dead to claim the life insurance benefit. What should be a chore of routine investigation into a cold case gets messy, mean, and dirty in the blink of an eye.
Bottom line: The January Corpse is for you if you like fast-thinking private eyes, cases with too many loose ends, and action and adventure in Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Strengths of the story. Dave Garrett is an intellectual PI who uses his head rather than brute force for investigating. Being an ex-attorney, he is a different take on a private investigator than characters with backgrounds in law enforcement or military. Dave has some emotional scars, making him an interesting character and somewhat outsider.
The mystery itself is the right size for something solved in 3 days. You would think after 7 years, it wouldn’t be so easy to solve the disappearance of Dan Wilson. Does Dave get lucky? Some could say that, but he invested the time and tenacity that ended up paying off. No one gifted him with the answers, he earned every single one. This is one of the biggest strengths, Dave Garrett is the hero of his story.
The setting is Philadelphia, 1990. I loved the details on Philly and the surrounding area, the kind that come from an author really knowing the area. For example, there is a passage discussing the odd travel patterns. Some days, it takes 10 minutes to get into the city, then you’re stuck in gridlock for 3 blocks. Other times it takes 90 minutes and once you’re in the city, you’re free an clear. You don’t get those types of observations using Google Earth. The descriptions of the neighborhoods, people, and buildings give texture to the story.
The pacing is excellent for those of us looking for a reason to binge read a book in one sitting (yeah, I did that.) When Dave gets the case Friday morning, it’s with the expectation of appearing in court to testify on Monday. The clock starts ticking immediately. I like that part of the story includes Dave weighing what is the best use of his limited time – especially limited business hours. In that short period, there is a fight, a car chase, a hostage situation, and a hot chili pepper romance scene.
Where the story fell short of ideal: Not much to pick on here. The logic of the story held up well, something I always look for. The events that were surprising and action packed when reading fully made sense with the benefit of hindsight. As is often the case with PI stories, people lie to Dave but he sniffs out the truth in a way where he does the heavy lifting of sleuthing (i.e. no coincidences, etc) and the lies make sense.
Bottom line: The January Corpse is for you if you like fast-thinking private eyes, cases with too many loose ends, and action and adventure in Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Strengths of the story. Dave Garrett is an intellectual PI who uses his head rather than brute force for investigating. Being an ex-attorney, he is a different take on a private investigator than characters with backgrounds in law enforcement or military. Dave has some emotional scars, making him an interesting character and somewhat outsider.
The mystery itself is the right size for something solved in 3 days. You would think after 7 years, it wouldn’t be so easy to solve the disappearance of Dan Wilson. Does Dave get lucky? Some could say that, but he invested the time and tenacity that ended up paying off. No one gifted him with the answers, he earned every single one. This is one of the biggest strengths, Dave Garrett is the hero of his story.
The setting is Philadelphia, 1990. I loved the details on Philly and the surrounding area, the kind that come from an author really knowing the area. For example, there is a passage discussing the odd travel patterns. Some days, it takes 10 minutes to get into the city, then you’re stuck in gridlock for 3 blocks. Other times it takes 90 minutes and once you’re in the city, you’re free an clear. You don’t get those types of observations using Google Earth. The descriptions of the neighborhoods, people, and buildings give texture to the story.
The pacing is excellent for those of us looking for a reason to binge read a book in one sitting (yeah, I did that.) When Dave gets the case Friday morning, it’s with the expectation of appearing in court to testify on Monday. The clock starts ticking immediately. I like that part of the story includes Dave weighing what is the best use of his limited time – especially limited business hours. In that short period, there is a fight, a car chase, a hostage situation, and a hot chili pepper romance scene.
Where the story fell short of ideal: Not much to pick on here. The logic of the story held up well, something I always look for. The events that were surprising and action packed when reading fully made sense with the benefit of hindsight. As is often the case with PI stories, people lie to Dave but he sniffs out the truth in a way where he does the heavy lifting of sleuthing (i.e. no coincidences, etc) and the lies make sense.
January 22, 2024
Attorney Daniel Wilson disappeared seven years ago, leaving only his bloody, shot up car at the scene of the crime. His family and former law firm now want to have him declared dead to settle the insurance claims.
Once a promising attorney and once married, David Garrett is now disbarred and divorced, and a struggling private investigator trying to make ends meet.
When a former acquaintance offers Garrett the Wilson case, he knows there more to it. He only has Friday and the weekend to work on the case before appearing in court Monday. However, his bank account balance wins out over his better judgment.
Seventy-two hours of lies, misdirection, ennui, and getting beat up and shot at confirms Dave’s suspicions that the case wasn’t thoroughly investigated from the beginning and cements his determination to expose the truth. His biggest obstacle – he’s not sure what the truth is.
I liked David Garrett. He’s pragmatic and honest, especially to himself about himself. A serious error in judgment cost him everything. He isn’t bitter and placing blame on others, but he also hasn’t forgotten. He’s simply moved on with his life and survives by his wits and the hard lessons of life. He’s not trying to be a hero righting all the wrongs of the world. He usually does the right thing and hopes a little good karma will come his way.
Excellent pacing and writing kept me turning pages in this first-person narrative. A man of few words, Dave Garrett’s view of people and places is expressive and illustrative and pulled me right into each scene.
But that ending? I wasn’t ready and never saw it coming! Great plot twist!
Written in a time before pay phones were part of pop culture and “things from the past,” The January Corpse has a hardboiled, realistic, and satisfying feel.
Enjoy!
Once a promising attorney and once married, David Garrett is now disbarred and divorced, and a struggling private investigator trying to make ends meet.
When a former acquaintance offers Garrett the Wilson case, he knows there more to it. He only has Friday and the weekend to work on the case before appearing in court Monday. However, his bank account balance wins out over his better judgment.
Seventy-two hours of lies, misdirection, ennui, and getting beat up and shot at confirms Dave’s suspicions that the case wasn’t thoroughly investigated from the beginning and cements his determination to expose the truth. His biggest obstacle – he’s not sure what the truth is.
I liked David Garrett. He’s pragmatic and honest, especially to himself about himself. A serious error in judgment cost him everything. He isn’t bitter and placing blame on others, but he also hasn’t forgotten. He’s simply moved on with his life and survives by his wits and the hard lessons of life. He’s not trying to be a hero righting all the wrongs of the world. He usually does the right thing and hopes a little good karma will come his way.
Excellent pacing and writing kept me turning pages in this first-person narrative. A man of few words, Dave Garrett’s view of people and places is expressive and illustrative and pulled me right into each scene.
But that ending? I wasn’t ready and never saw it coming! Great plot twist!
Written in a time before pay phones were part of pop culture and “things from the past,” The January Corpse has a hardboiled, realistic, and satisfying feel.
Enjoy!
February 1, 2024
Sometimes we need to take a trip back to a time where social media and technology didn’t run the day. It was quite enjoyable to read about a private eye who uses his brain and deductive thinking skills to solve a crime rather than inputting information into a computer and POOF! There’s the answer. This is set in the early 90’s (when I was in early elementary school – haha!). Definitely gave me the vibes of old sleuthing shows that I watched with my mom.
The thing I love about new, fresh eyes on an old case is the process of walking back through everything from start to finish. I haven’t been to Philadelphia but felt like I could actually see it thanks to the descriptive writing from Neil Albert. I like authors who can transport me to different times and places — almost like virtual reality!
Knowing that there is a timeline on Dave’s investigation makes it all the more attractive as a story to read in one sitting. The stakes are higher, and he has to give it his all to satisfy the family, the court, and of course, himself. There is plenty of action, swinging from one scene to the next barely giving you time to process how everything connects. Being a private eye, Dave has some advantages for his investigation that other outlets wouldn’t have access to; but having to work outside standard working hours adds a level of darkness unlike other procedurals.
The thing I love about new, fresh eyes on an old case is the process of walking back through everything from start to finish. I haven’t been to Philadelphia but felt like I could actually see it thanks to the descriptive writing from Neil Albert. I like authors who can transport me to different times and places — almost like virtual reality!
Knowing that there is a timeline on Dave’s investigation makes it all the more attractive as a story to read in one sitting. The stakes are higher, and he has to give it his all to satisfy the family, the court, and of course, himself. There is plenty of action, swinging from one scene to the next barely giving you time to process how everything connects. Being a private eye, Dave has some advantages for his investigation that other outlets wouldn’t have access to; but having to work outside standard working hours adds a level of darkness unlike other procedurals.
January 26, 2024
New author for me but looking forward to reading the series! 12 books— 11 to go! A former lawyer who has been disbarred and asked to solve a case that has been lingering for years. Seems the victim, Daniel Wilson, needs to be declared…. mmmm but why now? Now the interest peaks and the questions come when things are not adding up. Was his death accidental or murder? Who did it…. The wife, the daughter, the business partner… or somebody totally different? Was there to more to it? Could there be a life insurance policy?
The disbarred lawyer, David Garrett, is very honest with himself. He admits his flaws and mistakes, and creates your trust and interest in him. Following his gut, ignoring mob warnings and logs of deceit in the files, David realizes there is more than meets the eye. Why would a mother and sister want him declared dead but not care who did it or why? The victim had $100,000 with him, where did it go?
The author wrote at a good pace to hold your interest but not bore you as a cozy mystery might. Many questions throughout the book to keep you on your toes and you can read with excitement and suspense until the end. But I must tell you…. Surprise ending!
Author did a great job portraying the characters, leading the reader to wonder and did not drag the book out. #partnersincrimevbt
The disbarred lawyer, David Garrett, is very honest with himself. He admits his flaws and mistakes, and creates your trust and interest in him. Following his gut, ignoring mob warnings and logs of deceit in the files, David realizes there is more than meets the eye. Why would a mother and sister want him declared dead but not care who did it or why? The victim had $100,000 with him, where did it go?
The author wrote at a good pace to hold your interest but not bore you as a cozy mystery might. Many questions throughout the book to keep you on your toes and you can read with excitement and suspense until the end. But I must tell you…. Surprise ending!
Author did a great job portraying the characters, leading the reader to wonder and did not drag the book out. #partnersincrimevbt
January 25, 2024
Dave Garrett was disbarred. He couldn’t ever practice law again. He found a new niche as a private investigator and longed for a case he could really sink his teeth into. And he found it in a cold case. The mystery of what happened to another lawyer. He mysteriously disappeared seven years ago and on Monday will be declared legally dead. It’s Friday and Dave has his work cut out for him. He wanted a serious case and he got it. Time is running out and the race is on to discover what happened to the missing lawyer while staying one step ahead of those who don’t want their secrets revealed…. at any cost.
This was quite the mystery. A cold case. A disbarred lawyer. And a whole lot of danger and events I didn’t see coming. I zipped through it. The main character, Dave Garrett was definitely the selling point in this book. He grew on me quickly. I liked his directness and his stubbornness. And I have a thing for cold cases. I like reading how the clues get sorted out and what truly happened brought to light. And the ending was a good one too. I’ve got my eye on this series now and am curious what comes next.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
This was quite the mystery. A cold case. A disbarred lawyer. And a whole lot of danger and events I didn’t see coming. I zipped through it. The main character, Dave Garrett was definitely the selling point in this book. He grew on me quickly. I liked his directness and his stubbornness. And I have a thing for cold cases. I like reading how the clues get sorted out and what truly happened brought to light. And the ending was a good one too. I’ve got my eye on this series now and am curious what comes next.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
January 22, 2024
I liked this book and the time frame that the author based the story in. He wrote it in the 1990s, when I was a kid and there was less technology. I love this as it reminds me of our house, we do not have a lot of technology in our house and have chosen this path.
The story centers around Dave, our MC, who is a former lawyer disbarred because he was trying to help his wife at the time with a test. He has currently taken on a new case about a disappearance of a man called Dan Wilson, after he spoke to a former acquaintance. Now with Dave on the case, he runs around the entire book talking to various people who knew Dan Wilson and stumbles onto some secrets too.
The one thing I did not like in this book is what happened to Dan Wilson, I am not a fan of the 'message' this book did not sit all that well with me.
There is a lot that happens in this book with Dave and Lisa, the sister of Dan, with the police chief and even the mafia is talked about in certain points, so why did Dan disappear? Is he alive or dead after 7 years, well you have to read the book to find out!
The story centers around Dave, our MC, who is a former lawyer disbarred because he was trying to help his wife at the time with a test. He has currently taken on a new case about a disappearance of a man called Dan Wilson, after he spoke to a former acquaintance. Now with Dave on the case, he runs around the entire book talking to various people who knew Dan Wilson and stumbles onto some secrets too.
The one thing I did not like in this book is what happened to Dan Wilson, I am not a fan of the 'message' this book did not sit all that well with me.
There is a lot that happens in this book with Dave and Lisa, the sister of Dan, with the police chief and even the mafia is talked about in certain points, so why did Dan disappear? Is he alive or dead after 7 years, well you have to read the book to find out!
August 10, 2018
I liked it..ending was a bit of a shock..
September 21, 2015
#1 in the Dave Garrett series. Finalist 1992 Shamus Award for Best First Novel. Garrett has been disbarred and divorced, both stemming from a common incident. Now he makes a living as an investigator for other lawyers. In this debut of a series, he winds up with a maybe relationship and the reader must go to The February Trouble (1992) to find out if it becomes an ongoing relationship or if they are ships that pass in the night.
Dave Garrett series - Seven years before the story opens, fledgling attorney Daniel Wilson had disappeared, and his bullet-pocked and bloody car was found by his sister Lisa in the woods near the place where they had planned to meet later that evening. Now Dave Garrett, a disbarred lawyer turned PI, is called in to help the estate have Wilson declared dead so the survivors can collect his insurance. Defying mob warnings to lay off, escaping two sets of gunsels sent to maim or kill him, penetrating a fog of deceit and lies laid down by Lisa, her mother and Wilson's law partner, the brave, able, cynical Dave, after a night in Lisa's arms, comes to a startling conclusion.
Dave Garrett series - Seven years before the story opens, fledgling attorney Daniel Wilson had disappeared, and his bullet-pocked and bloody car was found by his sister Lisa in the woods near the place where they had planned to meet later that evening. Now Dave Garrett, a disbarred lawyer turned PI, is called in to help the estate have Wilson declared dead so the survivors can collect his insurance. Defying mob warnings to lay off, escaping two sets of gunsels sent to maim or kill him, penetrating a fog of deceit and lies laid down by Lisa, her mother and Wilson's law partner, the brave, able, cynical Dave, after a night in Lisa's arms, comes to a startling conclusion.
October 9, 2013
In "The January Corpse," a young, disbarred attorney in Philadelphia is hired to find Daniel Wilson. Wilson has to go to the tight knit Pennsylvania Dutch community to try to get answers.
Wilson has been missing for six years and now time that the insurance company can certify that he is dead and the family can collect the insurance money.
The question is, who might have killed Wilson and why would they want to kill him if he would make more money if he was alive?
Wilson's sister is the person who hires P.I. David Garrett and she seems sincere in trying to find her brother and who was responsible for his death. Then, a car is discovered with bullet holes in it.
I found this story to be imaginative with characters who grab the reader's attention. I also found some questions unanswered such as what about the insurance company investigator. However, I look forward to future novels written by Neil Albert.
Wilson has been missing for six years and now time that the insurance company can certify that he is dead and the family can collect the insurance money.
The question is, who might have killed Wilson and why would they want to kill him if he would make more money if he was alive?
Wilson's sister is the person who hires P.I. David Garrett and she seems sincere in trying to find her brother and who was responsible for his death. Then, a car is discovered with bullet holes in it.
I found this story to be imaginative with characters who grab the reader's attention. I also found some questions unanswered such as what about the insurance company investigator. However, I look forward to future novels written by Neil Albert.
August 15, 2008
JANUARY CORPSE - Good
Albert, Neil - 1st of series
Once Dave Garrett was a Philadelphia lawyer. Then he was disbarred. Now he is a private investigator, taking odd jobs to keep afloat.
This job is odder than most. He must prove a lawyer who vanished seven years ago is dead. But the evil he finds is very much alive. He is in over his head in a shadow world of vicious mob muscle, drug blood money, old debts and fresh fear. He is falling for a woman who gives too much and tells too little. And he has dug too deeply to stop before he hits the final drop-dead shock—even though he may be digging his own grave....
It was slightly different from the normal PI novel and had an interesting twist.
Albert, Neil - 1st of series
Once Dave Garrett was a Philadelphia lawyer. Then he was disbarred. Now he is a private investigator, taking odd jobs to keep afloat.
This job is odder than most. He must prove a lawyer who vanished seven years ago is dead. But the evil he finds is very much alive. He is in over his head in a shadow world of vicious mob muscle, drug blood money, old debts and fresh fear. He is falling for a woman who gives too much and tells too little. And he has dug too deeply to stop before he hits the final drop-dead shock—even though he may be digging his own grave....
It was slightly different from the normal PI novel and had an interesting twist.
August 15, 2009
RATING: 4.0
PROTAGONIST: Dave Garrett (disbarred lawyer)
GENRE: PI
SETTING: Pennsylvania
SERIES: #1 of 6
SUMMARY: Disbarred attorney-turned-PI Dave Garrett has only the weekend to prove that a man who disappeared seven years ago is dead so that the manhis mother and sister Lisa can collect on his insurance policy. Was the vanished Danny Wilson murdered, and if so, by whom? His former law partner, Leo Strasnick, says their practice consisted mostly of civil cases, but then why is Garrett being tailed and warned off by mafia types? And what happened to the $100,000 Wilson had with him in his car? The plot is kind of average, but the ending is a complete jaw dropper and worth the price of admission!
PROTAGONIST: Dave Garrett (disbarred lawyer)
GENRE: PI
SETTING: Pennsylvania
SERIES: #1 of 6
SUMMARY: Disbarred attorney-turned-PI Dave Garrett has only the weekend to prove that a man who disappeared seven years ago is dead so that the manhis mother and sister Lisa can collect on his insurance policy. Was the vanished Danny Wilson murdered, and if so, by whom? His former law partner, Leo Strasnick, says their practice consisted mostly of civil cases, but then why is Garrett being tailed and warned off by mafia types? And what happened to the $100,000 Wilson had with him in his car? The plot is kind of average, but the ending is a complete jaw dropper and worth the price of admission!
January 7, 2014
Another book that has sat on my library shelf for years. The plot questions whether or not Daniel Wilson is dead or if he plotted his disappearance to look like a murder.
It is terrific and I am glad that I finally read it. Neil Albert has a wonderful sense of balance in his writing. He portrays the characters in an insightful manner, introducing each personality in bits and pieces as the novel evolves. He includes just enough drama to make the story plausible and has unimaginable surprises that keep your interest from beginning to end.
I definitely want to read other books in his Walker series.
It is terrific and I am glad that I finally read it. Neil Albert has a wonderful sense of balance in his writing. He portrays the characters in an insightful manner, introducing each personality in bits and pieces as the novel evolves. He includes just enough drama to make the story plausible and has unimaginable surprises that keep your interest from beginning to end.
I definitely want to read other books in his Walker series.
January 25, 2013
Disbarred attorney/now Private Eye Dave Garrett has only the weekend to prove that a man who disappeared seven years ago is dead so that the man's mother and sister can collect on his insurance policy. The book started out slow and was choppy off and on throughout, but got much more interesting towards the end. The final resolution was both a surprise (at least to me) and supported by minute details along the way. So, to me, the end was great, but getting there was a bit more of a struggle than it should have been.
March 9, 2013
First book by a local author, with reference to some local landmarks. It was a bit slow to start, but was a very good mystery with a twist ending. Would read another of his books, to see if they are also good, since this was his first book.
July 11, 2013
I am at a loss as to why this series doesn't get great ratings from readers. I think they are all terrific, on-the-edge-of your seat mysteries. The setting is the Philadelphia area, and the hero is a disbarred lawyer turned PI.
February 17, 2009
Interesting if you want to read a story set in Philly in the early 90s. Points for a weird twist at the end, but otherwise...
March 7, 2009
A very solid first entry in a PI series set in Pennsylvania.
January 20, 2012
I liked most of the book except for the ending.
May 20, 2016
i liked it
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