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Ashe Cayne #2
Wolf Point
A Cadillac, a pistol, and a corpse make for another morning in Chicago. The body belongs to Walter Griffin, a prominent Black Chicagoan insider hailing from the city’s West Side. He ascended to the upper echelons of the mayor’s office only to meet his end in a watery grave at Wolf Point. Forensics finds his prints on the gun; it’s ruled a suicide.
But grizzled private investigator Ashe Cayne knows better.
Griffin’s children plead with a reluctant Ashe to hunt their father’s killer. They know their dad wouldn’t have taken his own life without a goodbye. And Ashe knows this town’s dark secrets often mean murder is not too far away.
Ashe decides to take on the case and navigate a city rotting with corruption, racial tensions, and sketchy backroom deals. On the bleak streets of Chicago, it’s every man for himself—and that makes everyone a suspect.
But grizzled private investigator Ashe Cayne knows better.
Griffin’s children plead with a reluctant Ashe to hunt their father’s killer. They know their dad wouldn’t have taken his own life without a goodbye. And Ashe knows this town’s dark secrets often mean murder is not too far away.
Ashe decides to take on the case and navigate a city rotting with corruption, racial tensions, and sketchy backroom deals. On the bleak streets of Chicago, it’s every man for himself—and that makes everyone a suspect.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2021
409 people are currently reading
1468 people want to read
About the author
Ian K. Smith
48 books369 followersIan K. Smith, M.D.,Ian K. Smith, M.D. is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of SUPER SHRED, SHRED, THE 4 DAY DIET, THE FAT SMASH DIET and EXTREME FAT SMASH DIET among 7 other books including, SHRED Diet Cookbook , EAT, Happy , and The Blackbird Papers. His newest book, THE SHRED POWER CLEANSE, is available 12/29/15.
He is a former co-host of Emmy-winning “The Doctors” TV show, and a medical contributor to “The Rachael Ray Show."
He is the former medical correspondent for NBC News network and for NewsChannel 4 where he filed reports for NBC’s “Nightly News” and the “Today” show as well as WNBC’s various news broadcasts. He has appeared extensively on various broadcasts including “The Oprah Show,” “Good Morning America” “CBS This Morning” “The View,” “The Talk,” “Dr. Oz,” ‘Dr. Phil,” “Anderson Cooper 360″ and “Showbiz Tonight.”
He has written for various publications including Time, Newsweek, Men’s Health, and the New York Daily News, and has been featured in several other publications including, Publisher’s Weekly, Red Book, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, People, Essence, Ebony, University of Chicago Medicine on the Midway, Cosmopolitan, Women’s World, and Black Enterprise.
Dr. Smith is the founder of two major national health initiatives—the 50 Million Pound Challenge and the Makeover Mile—that have helped millions of people lose weight and improve their health.
A graduate of Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Smith was appointed to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition in 2010 and is serving a second term.
http://shredlife.com/about-shred/abou...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/ianksmith
He is a former co-host of Emmy-winning “The Doctors” TV show, and a medical contributor to “The Rachael Ray Show."
He is the former medical correspondent for NBC News network and for NewsChannel 4 where he filed reports for NBC’s “Nightly News” and the “Today” show as well as WNBC’s various news broadcasts. He has appeared extensively on various broadcasts including “The Oprah Show,” “Good Morning America” “CBS This Morning” “The View,” “The Talk,” “Dr. Oz,” ‘Dr. Phil,” “Anderson Cooper 360″ and “Showbiz Tonight.”
He has written for various publications including Time, Newsweek, Men’s Health, and the New York Daily News, and has been featured in several other publications including, Publisher’s Weekly, Red Book, USA Today, Wall Street Journal, People, Essence, Ebony, University of Chicago Medicine on the Midway, Cosmopolitan, Women’s World, and Black Enterprise.
Dr. Smith is the founder of two major national health initiatives—the 50 Million Pound Challenge and the Makeover Mile—that have helped millions of people lose weight and improve their health.
A graduate of Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Dr. Smith was appointed to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition in 2010 and is serving a second term.
http://shredlife.com/about-shred/abou...
http://us.macmillan.com/author/ianksmith
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
September 17, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Ian K. Smith, and Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Ian K. Smith is back with another gritty investigative thriller where nothing is quite as it seems. Ashe Cayne knows the world of private investigating quite well and Smith has developed him into a strong character who is prepared to turn over every stone to get to the truth. While the series is still coming into its own, the foundation is strong and sets Smith apart from many within the genre, which permits the reader to sit back and enjoy some stellar writing and suspenseful plot twists.
Corruption is rife on the streets of Chicago, something that private investigator Ashe Cayne knows all too well from his time on the CPD. When the adult children of prominent political figure Walter Griffin turn to Cayne, he’s not sure what he can do. Griffin was found dead in a seedier part of Chicago, but it was clearly a suicide. That said, neither of Griffin’s children believe that their father could have done this and implore Cayne to get to the truth.
Two years after the fact, Cayne must work extremely hard to cobble anything together, while also fighting against the suicide label. What he discovers not only refutes the official cause of death, but opens up new problems that could easily provide a list of suspects. Might it have been the Russians? A political figure Griffin wronged? Someone with a secret who wanted to ensure it never saw the light of day? Cayne is busy tracking down all the possibilities while trying to keep himself from being a new target.
While Ashe Cayne knows his city well, there’s something going on that even he could not have predicted. Nothing is coming together, leaving him to wonder if there’s a cover-up in place. Cayne owes it to Griffin’s family to find the truth, even if he ruffles a few feathers along the way.
I remember being highly impressed with Ian K. Smith’s series debut, feeling that the book took private investigation to a new level. This was not the hokey investigator looking into simple cases to appease an insistent family. Rather, Ashe Cayne dives headlong into the dark underbelly that is Chicago’s most dangerous neighbourhoods, seeking answers that are likely best not revealed. The grit oozes from every page and Smith keeps the reader wanting to know more, particularly as new twists take the story in unforeseen directions.
Ashe Cayne continues to reveal himself throughout the story, adding a little more to his backstory while forging ahead with abandon. Well-known to some of the richer parts of the city, Cayne does not mind getting his hands dirty if it helps a client, especially one he trusts has been wronged. Surrounded by a number of strong characters who bring the streets of Chicago to life, Cayne is sure to be a memorable protagonist for as long as the series continues.
This was another strong effort by Smith, who has a way with words and description. The narrative moves swiftly and keeps the reader trying to match its pace, while never being truly predicable. Smith peppers the story with unique characters and plausible plot lines, all while developing an air of mystery until the final reveal. Ashe Cayne may know Chicago, but even he is sometimes surprised just how corrupt its politicians can be when trying to vie for ultimate control. This is a series worth noting, as Ian K. Smith has laid the groundwork for something spectacular, provided he continues with the effort he’s invested into these first two novels.
Kudos, Mr. Smith, for delivering yet again. Readers are sure to take note and see that the genre has a new master.
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/wo...
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Ian K. Smith is back with another gritty investigative thriller where nothing is quite as it seems. Ashe Cayne knows the world of private investigating quite well and Smith has developed him into a strong character who is prepared to turn over every stone to get to the truth. While the series is still coming into its own, the foundation is strong and sets Smith apart from many within the genre, which permits the reader to sit back and enjoy some stellar writing and suspenseful plot twists.
Corruption is rife on the streets of Chicago, something that private investigator Ashe Cayne knows all too well from his time on the CPD. When the adult children of prominent political figure Walter Griffin turn to Cayne, he’s not sure what he can do. Griffin was found dead in a seedier part of Chicago, but it was clearly a suicide. That said, neither of Griffin’s children believe that their father could have done this and implore Cayne to get to the truth.
Two years after the fact, Cayne must work extremely hard to cobble anything together, while also fighting against the suicide label. What he discovers not only refutes the official cause of death, but opens up new problems that could easily provide a list of suspects. Might it have been the Russians? A political figure Griffin wronged? Someone with a secret who wanted to ensure it never saw the light of day? Cayne is busy tracking down all the possibilities while trying to keep himself from being a new target.
While Ashe Cayne knows his city well, there’s something going on that even he could not have predicted. Nothing is coming together, leaving him to wonder if there’s a cover-up in place. Cayne owes it to Griffin’s family to find the truth, even if he ruffles a few feathers along the way.
I remember being highly impressed with Ian K. Smith’s series debut, feeling that the book took private investigation to a new level. This was not the hokey investigator looking into simple cases to appease an insistent family. Rather, Ashe Cayne dives headlong into the dark underbelly that is Chicago’s most dangerous neighbourhoods, seeking answers that are likely best not revealed. The grit oozes from every page and Smith keeps the reader wanting to know more, particularly as new twists take the story in unforeseen directions.
Ashe Cayne continues to reveal himself throughout the story, adding a little more to his backstory while forging ahead with abandon. Well-known to some of the richer parts of the city, Cayne does not mind getting his hands dirty if it helps a client, especially one he trusts has been wronged. Surrounded by a number of strong characters who bring the streets of Chicago to life, Cayne is sure to be a memorable protagonist for as long as the series continues.
This was another strong effort by Smith, who has a way with words and description. The narrative moves swiftly and keeps the reader trying to match its pace, while never being truly predicable. Smith peppers the story with unique characters and plausible plot lines, all while developing an air of mystery until the final reveal. Ashe Cayne may know Chicago, but even he is sometimes surprised just how corrupt its politicians can be when trying to vie for ultimate control. This is a series worth noting, as Ian K. Smith has laid the groundwork for something spectacular, provided he continues with the effort he’s invested into these first two novels.
Kudos, Mr. Smith, for delivering yet again. Readers are sure to take note and see that the genre has a new master.
Be sure to check for my review, first posted on Mystery and Suspense, as well as a number of other insightful comments by other reviewers.
https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/wo...
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
February 24, 2024
"Griffin’s children plead with a reluctant Ashe to hunt their father’s killer. They know their dad wouldn’t have taken his own life without a goodbye."
I loved the protagonist in Wolf Point! What a smooooth guy Ashe is!! He made me smile and/or laugh many times! Ashe was a police officer at one time but left when he could no longer tolerate the politics in the department. He's now a private investigator who answers people's questions with quotes from poets or authors. The reactions are hilarious! He also is a golf addict. And, did I mention he has a bit of a complicated love life, as well?
Griffin is a man whose political ties and personal life give Ashe an interesting and varied number of suspects to question. There were twists in Wolf Point and I enjoyed every one of them. Especially the last one.
I'd like to see more about Ashe's dog, Stryker, in the next book. (I wonder if he was named after Stryker surgical handpieces.)
Big thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC! Great book!!
I loved the protagonist in Wolf Point! What a smooooth guy Ashe is!! He made me smile and/or laugh many times! Ashe was a police officer at one time but left when he could no longer tolerate the politics in the department. He's now a private investigator who answers people's questions with quotes from poets or authors. The reactions are hilarious! He also is a golf addict. And, did I mention he has a bit of a complicated love life, as well?
Griffin is a man whose political ties and personal life give Ashe an interesting and varied number of suspects to question. There were twists in Wolf Point and I enjoyed every one of them. Especially the last one.
I'd like to see more about Ashe's dog, Stryker, in the next book. (I wonder if he was named after Stryker surgical handpieces.)
Big thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC! Great book!!
October 5, 2021
I received a free electronic ARC of this private eye mystery from Netgalley, Ian K. Smith, and Thomas & Mercer. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read Wolf Point of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. The second of a series, This book is completely stand-alone but I will be looking out the other novels of Dr. Smith. He writes a tight tale with interesting, compelling protagonists and the mystery is well camouflaged.
Set in and around Chicago, a city very well presented, our PI Ashe Cane, formerly of the Chicago Police Department, is completely at home. Approached by the children of a Chicago high roller, dead about two years of what was classified as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Ashe is compelled to do what he can to give this family closure - either prove he was, as they believe, murdered or convince them that he did, after all, shoot himself in the head on a dirty beach his homophobic soul would not have been caught dead on. Willingly, at any rate.
Ashe's too had doubts about the death of Sr., and his own father had cried when the news of Walter Griffin Sr.'s death was announced. Every time his name came up in conversation, the doubts of suicide were expressed by everyone. Walter Griffin had every reason to love life. He was adored by one and all in Chicago. His wife and children loved him and were themselves upstanding citizens. The family was two weeks away from a dream vacation at a wildlife park in Africa that had taken Sr. almost a year to get set up.
Ashe decides to give it a look and see what he can come up with. He is doubtful that he can help - both the CPD and the ME had ruled the death a suicide. But this was a man of the people, never forgetting the hundreds and thousands of families who struggled to make it to their next payday. If he can find anything pointing to murder, he will pursue it. By the end of the week, everything is pointing to murder. By almost anyone. But it IS Chicago...
pub date August 17, 2021
Publishing date changed to October 5, 2021
Thomas and Mercer
Reviewed on August 11, 2021, at Amazon and Netgalley. Reviewed on October 5, 2021, on AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Kobo or GooglePlay.
Set in and around Chicago, a city very well presented, our PI Ashe Cane, formerly of the Chicago Police Department, is completely at home. Approached by the children of a Chicago high roller, dead about two years of what was classified as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Ashe is compelled to do what he can to give this family closure - either prove he was, as they believe, murdered or convince them that he did, after all, shoot himself in the head on a dirty beach his homophobic soul would not have been caught dead on. Willingly, at any rate.
Ashe's too had doubts about the death of Sr., and his own father had cried when the news of Walter Griffin Sr.'s death was announced. Every time his name came up in conversation, the doubts of suicide were expressed by everyone. Walter Griffin had every reason to love life. He was adored by one and all in Chicago. His wife and children loved him and were themselves upstanding citizens. The family was two weeks away from a dream vacation at a wildlife park in Africa that had taken Sr. almost a year to get set up.
Ashe decides to give it a look and see what he can come up with. He is doubtful that he can help - both the CPD and the ME had ruled the death a suicide. But this was a man of the people, never forgetting the hundreds and thousands of families who struggled to make it to their next payday. If he can find anything pointing to murder, he will pursue it. By the end of the week, everything is pointing to murder. By almost anyone. But it IS Chicago...
pub date August 17, 2021
Publishing date changed to October 5, 2021
Thomas and Mercer
Reviewed on August 11, 2021, at Amazon and Netgalley. Reviewed on October 5, 2021, on AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, and BookBub. Not available for review on Kobo or GooglePlay.
January 3, 2024
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
The second installment featuring Ashe Cayne, an ex-cop turned private eye, who fights corruption in the streets of Chicago.
This time, Ashe is tasked with uncovering the murder lurking in the death of Walter Griffin, a man whose death was already judged a suicide.
An engaging mystery from a talented author, I enthusiastically recommend this powerful story.
The second installment featuring Ashe Cayne, an ex-cop turned private eye, who fights corruption in the streets of Chicago.
This time, Ashe is tasked with uncovering the murder lurking in the death of Walter Griffin, a man whose death was already judged a suicide.
An engaging mystery from a talented author, I enthusiastically recommend this powerful story.
October 13, 2021
I was a winner of this goodreads book.
It is always a good story when I'm surprised by the who the killer is. This is one of those. Ashe is methodical and persistant in his pursuit of answers for the families.
It is always a good story when I'm surprised by the who the killer is. This is one of those. Ashe is methodical and persistant in his pursuit of answers for the families.
September 2, 2021
I read this in one sitting
February 4, 2022
They say you should write what you know, which is why one of the reasons that I feel that Dr. Ian K. Smith’s latest book Wolf Point falls flat. Smith has quite the pedigree as a well-known physician that is sought after for his weight loss and healthy eating advice. Thus, I was surprised to see a murder-mystery book in his name. In Wolf Point we follow private investigator Ashe Cayne as he is tasked with uncovering the true motives and means for the death of well-known politician Walter Griffin, as his passing was ruled (mysteriously) a homicide. Unfortunately, the downfall of this book lies with the pretentious main character who spends more time talking about golf, dwelling on his past/present love life and focusing on a local kid’s death to draw in the reader and keep them turning pages.
Well known Chicago politician Walter Griffin’s death was ruled a suicide, but his family disagrees with this finding. So does PI Ashe Cayne. When Griffin’s family enlist his aid in figuring out the truth behind his passing and the reasons behind it, Cayne is eager to lend a hand – danger be damned. Sadly, the story doesn’t pick up steam though until mid-book as Smith focuses far too much on Cayne’s golf game, makes one too many references to the origin of the character’s name (We get it, he was named after tennis legend Arthur Ashe), constantly has Cayne making overly intellectual remarks that the other characters wouldn’t/don’t understand (The guy can quote Shakespeare, but what’s the point in doing so to individuals who clearly won’t get the references?) and focusing on a woman he once loved and lost. Plus, there is a side story of a kid who was murdered on a train for not giving up his sneakers that makes an odd appearance in a not-needed addition to the tale.
When Cayne finally focuses on the murder he’s being tasked to investigate readers will become intrigued and find it hard to put their book down. Did Griffin’s death have something to do with a beautiful chanteuse that he was possibly having an affair with? Maybe it was because of his political or personal connections to the wrong people? There are just way too many twists, turns and potential culprits to figure it out on your own (some to the determinate of the story to the point you’re at “Uh, solve it already…” level of annoyance) You have to wait until the end of the book to find out, which is one of the sole standout reasons you’ll want to keep reading Wolf Point.
For those looking for a good who-done-it tale, you might enjoy Wolf Point. That is if you can get past the arrogance and distracted main character. Otherwise, seek out Dr. Smith’s other works on healthy eating or watch him on the “Rachael Ray Show” if you want to see where the author/physician truly shines.
Well known Chicago politician Walter Griffin’s death was ruled a suicide, but his family disagrees with this finding. So does PI Ashe Cayne. When Griffin’s family enlist his aid in figuring out the truth behind his passing and the reasons behind it, Cayne is eager to lend a hand – danger be damned. Sadly, the story doesn’t pick up steam though until mid-book as Smith focuses far too much on Cayne’s golf game, makes one too many references to the origin of the character’s name (We get it, he was named after tennis legend Arthur Ashe), constantly has Cayne making overly intellectual remarks that the other characters wouldn’t/don’t understand (The guy can quote Shakespeare, but what’s the point in doing so to individuals who clearly won’t get the references?) and focusing on a woman he once loved and lost. Plus, there is a side story of a kid who was murdered on a train for not giving up his sneakers that makes an odd appearance in a not-needed addition to the tale.
When Cayne finally focuses on the murder he’s being tasked to investigate readers will become intrigued and find it hard to put their book down. Did Griffin’s death have something to do with a beautiful chanteuse that he was possibly having an affair with? Maybe it was because of his political or personal connections to the wrong people? There are just way too many twists, turns and potential culprits to figure it out on your own (some to the determinate of the story to the point you’re at “Uh, solve it already…” level of annoyance) You have to wait until the end of the book to find out, which is one of the sole standout reasons you’ll want to keep reading Wolf Point.
For those looking for a good who-done-it tale, you might enjoy Wolf Point. That is if you can get past the arrogance and distracted main character. Otherwise, seek out Dr. Smith’s other works on healthy eating or watch him on the “Rachael Ray Show” if you want to see where the author/physician truly shines.
December 20, 2021
Wolf Point is the second in the Ashe Cayne series by Ian K Smith, and takes you into the underbelly of Chicago's corruption. Ashe, a former Chicago PD detective turned PI is selective in the cases he takes. Walter Griffin's death is ruled a suicide but his family doesn't believe it, and neither does Cayne. Griffin, a prominent figure in Chicago's political arena, still has ties to Chicago's West side from where he came. Unfortunately Griffin's investments, political ties and personal life gives Cayne an abundance of suspects to track down. Some surprising twists will keep you guessing as this investigation continues. Ashe's character and personal life further develops in this novel, surprising you when you think you have him figured out. I look forward to following Cayne as this series continues.
Thank you @NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book!
Thank you @NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book!
November 13, 2021
More like 3.5 stars. Lots of unnecessary details and some undeveloped characters kept this book from being a solid 4.
October 31, 2021
Ashe Cayne's Ego Shines Again---Better Than Book 1!
If you liked the first Ashe Cayne book, you should like this one even more.
Former Chicago Police Detective trurned pivate investigator, Ashe Cayne, is a no-nonsense investigator, whose unusual tactics walks a dangerous line between criminals and corrupt government leaders, earning him the respect of both sides enough to stay alive for a while.
The author's intense descriptions and details enliven the story with eye-catching narrations that put the reader next to Ashe every step of the intense storytelling, while in-your-face dialogues make the characters come to life with all their flaws and personalities: some you'll like, others you'll hate, many you won't trust, and a few you'll have trouble figuring out.
Ashe's mildly self-deprecating account charms us with his modest charisma buttons has us cheering for him in every chapter, all the time wondering when his skill, connections, and luck will fail him.
Although a quick read, the intense story is a slow-burning suspense. My only criticism of the story is sudden shift by the author near the end when Ashe's open transparency with the reader ends with a statement that he knows what happened, who did it, and the actual truth; however, holding out for the surprise ending, the reader is cut out of the details rather than being included in the final elements.
A word of warning to an otherwise general adult audience. Some language elements might be offensive because of their gross religious profanity, which some characters used for to shock. Although many might not mind such sacrilege, had the author moderated the language, nothing would have been lost in the story, and it would have been a better book for a larger audience.
Audible’s narration supplement was well done and added oomph to the story's characters, something I've learned to appreciate.
Overall, the book is a strong 4-star effort.
If you liked the first Ashe Cayne book, you should like this one even more.
Former Chicago Police Detective trurned pivate investigator, Ashe Cayne, is a no-nonsense investigator, whose unusual tactics walks a dangerous line between criminals and corrupt government leaders, earning him the respect of both sides enough to stay alive for a while.
The author's intense descriptions and details enliven the story with eye-catching narrations that put the reader next to Ashe every step of the intense storytelling, while in-your-face dialogues make the characters come to life with all their flaws and personalities: some you'll like, others you'll hate, many you won't trust, and a few you'll have trouble figuring out.
Ashe's mildly self-deprecating account charms us with his modest charisma buttons has us cheering for him in every chapter, all the time wondering when his skill, connections, and luck will fail him.
Although a quick read, the intense story is a slow-burning suspense. My only criticism of the story is sudden shift by the author near the end when Ashe's open transparency with the reader ends with a statement that he knows what happened, who did it, and the actual truth; however, holding out for the surprise ending, the reader is cut out of the details rather than being included in the final elements.
A word of warning to an otherwise general adult audience. Some language elements might be offensive because of their gross religious profanity, which some characters used for to shock. Although many might not mind such sacrilege, had the author moderated the language, nothing would have been lost in the story, and it would have been a better book for a larger audience.
Audible’s narration supplement was well done and added oomph to the story's characters, something I've learned to appreciate.
Overall, the book is a strong 4-star effort.
October 13, 2021
A fantastic thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat and reading far past my bedtime!
When the body of Walter Griffin, a prominent Black Chicagoan, is found at a watery grave in Wolf Point and ruled a suicide, the case ends up in the hands of Ashe Cayne, who knows there is more to the story. Griffin’s children come to the detective and ask him to look deeper into the case than the rest of law enforcement to find what might have been missed. They know their dad never would have done such a thing, even if it means uncovering dark secrets, they want to know the truth. Everyone is a suspect and Ashe must watch his own back in order to not end up like Griffin.
When I read this, I didn’t realize it was the second in a series and am now itching to get my hands on the first Ashe Cayne novel. The writing was smooth and the story entertaining. Even though this was the second in a series, I didn’t feel that I was missing out on a lot; readers can easily pick this up as a stand-alone and enjoy without feeling lost. Smith did a great job of crafting a mystery while keeping readers turning the pages. A few points in the story went a little slow for me but not enough to slow the entire story. It was a fun and in-depth look into Chicago that really made me feel like I was in the city and following right along with Cayne as he went about solving the crime. Lots of great secondary characters that filled the pages with little bits of humor and enough tension that kept a great pace throughout the entire story. There is a bit of language, so it is not appropriate for a younger audience but great for the intended audience. I recommend this book for readers that love a great thriller with a protagonist they will want to read more and more about.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
When the body of Walter Griffin, a prominent Black Chicagoan, is found at a watery grave in Wolf Point and ruled a suicide, the case ends up in the hands of Ashe Cayne, who knows there is more to the story. Griffin’s children come to the detective and ask him to look deeper into the case than the rest of law enforcement to find what might have been missed. They know their dad never would have done such a thing, even if it means uncovering dark secrets, they want to know the truth. Everyone is a suspect and Ashe must watch his own back in order to not end up like Griffin.
When I read this, I didn’t realize it was the second in a series and am now itching to get my hands on the first Ashe Cayne novel. The writing was smooth and the story entertaining. Even though this was the second in a series, I didn’t feel that I was missing out on a lot; readers can easily pick this up as a stand-alone and enjoy without feeling lost. Smith did a great job of crafting a mystery while keeping readers turning the pages. A few points in the story went a little slow for me but not enough to slow the entire story. It was a fun and in-depth look into Chicago that really made me feel like I was in the city and following right along with Cayne as he went about solving the crime. Lots of great secondary characters that filled the pages with little bits of humor and enough tension that kept a great pace throughout the entire story. There is a bit of language, so it is not appropriate for a younger audience but great for the intended audience. I recommend this book for readers that love a great thriller with a protagonist they will want to read more and more about.
I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
December 20, 2021
An excellent book! I loved the first book in the Ashe Cayne series and this one is just as if not better than the first. Ashe gets into the investigation of the death of a wealthy businessman. the "experts" say suicide but the family, and Ashe, disagree. Now he has to prove the case. And he does in true Ashe Cayne style.
A Cadillac, a pistol, and a corpse make for another morning in Chicago. The body belongs to Walter Griffin, a prominent Black Chicagoan insider hailing from the city’s West Side. He ascended to the upper echelons of the mayor’s office only to meet his end in a watery grave at Wolf Point. Forensics finds his prints on the gun; it’s ruled a suicide.
But grizzled private investigator Ashe Cayne knows better.
Griffin’s children plead with a reluctant Ashe to hunt their father’s killer. They know their dad wouldn’t have taken his own life without a goodbye. And Ashe knows this town’s dark secrets often mean murder is not too far away.
Ashe decides to take on the case and navigate a city rotting with corruption, racial tensions, and sketchy backroom deals. On the bleak streets of Chicago, it’s every man for himself—and that makes everyone a suspect.
A Cadillac, a pistol, and a corpse make for another morning in Chicago. The body belongs to Walter Griffin, a prominent Black Chicagoan insider hailing from the city’s West Side. He ascended to the upper echelons of the mayor’s office only to meet his end in a watery grave at Wolf Point. Forensics finds his prints on the gun; it’s ruled a suicide.
But grizzled private investigator Ashe Cayne knows better.
Griffin’s children plead with a reluctant Ashe to hunt their father’s killer. They know their dad wouldn’t have taken his own life without a goodbye. And Ashe knows this town’s dark secrets often mean murder is not too far away.
Ashe decides to take on the case and navigate a city rotting with corruption, racial tensions, and sketchy backroom deals. On the bleak streets of Chicago, it’s every man for himself—and that makes everyone a suspect.
June 24, 2022
A great suspense read with a great main character. If you like well-crafted Private Investigator characters, Ashe Cayne is it. He’s practical and tough and he does what he has to in order to get things done.
I loved this Chicago setting and if you have ever been there, you would really love some of the description. The plot swirls around a city known for its beauty and for its corruption.
There are quite a few characters in this story, but I didn’t have any trouble keeping them straight. I think it’s because this is an author that is extremely detail oriented. Describing his characters or better said, painting a picture of them, makes them clearly identifiable while reading. After all, this author is a doctor who has written a wildly popular two book series and also one who has some diet books that have great reviews. From one type of detail to another. Seems he is as good at describing food detail as he is creating a great character in a suspenseful thriller. I sure hope Ashe Cayne shows up in a third book.
I loved this Chicago setting and if you have ever been there, you would really love some of the description. The plot swirls around a city known for its beauty and for its corruption.
There are quite a few characters in this story, but I didn’t have any trouble keeping them straight. I think it’s because this is an author that is extremely detail oriented. Describing his characters or better said, painting a picture of them, makes them clearly identifiable while reading. After all, this author is a doctor who has written a wildly popular two book series and also one who has some diet books that have great reviews. From one type of detail to another. Seems he is as good at describing food detail as he is creating a great character in a suspenseful thriller. I sure hope Ashe Cayne shows up in a third book.
October 5, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Wolf Point by Ian K. Smith is a masterful mystery with secrets and alignments of political, sexual, and monetary themes.
Who killed Walter Griffin? Will Ashe find the killer before he is silenced for good?
Ashe Cayne
Our private investigator is Ashe Cayne, who is good at his job. Ashe is honorable, athletic, and always sticks with his integrity. Mechanic is Ashe's muscle, and he always seems to have Ashe's back. These two aren't afraid to walk into the shadiest of businesses or the highest-class joints. Although, don't let this former police detective fool you. He has many sides, including one that requires some vigilante justice now and then.
I have to say that Ashe isn't my favorite character, but he thoroughly keeps things happening and surprises me. In this installment, he seems to have decided to move on with a new relationship with Carolina. This is a smart move, as Carolina is intelligent, classy, connected, and she will love and keep Ashe on his toes.
The Mystery
The family of Walter Griffin asks Ashe to find Walter's killer and prove he didn't commit suicide two years ago. However, this isn't an easy task as Walter is connected to the mayor's office and some shady fellows. No one wants to talk; if they do, they could be the next to meet their demise. The deeper Ashe gets into Walter's life, the more political it seems. Walter had some horrible habits and secrets that not many knew. Then there is the young man, Bryce Horner, who supposedly died while swimming in Lake Michigan. This seems possible, except that Bryce was an excellent swimmer and swam in the lake regularly. Are the two connected, and are their deaths tied together or just a coincidence? Read the book. You won't be sorry.
Five Stars
My rating for Wolf Point by Ian K. Smith is Five Stars. While Ashe sometimes comes across as a conceded arse, he constantly surprises me. Dr. Smith writes complex mysteries with characters that are so real. I find that I am looking forward to the next installment. Seriously, what kind of corruption and moral dilemma will Ashe find himself in next time?
Ashe Cayne Mysteries
Who killed Walter Griffin? Will Ashe find the killer before he is silenced for good?
Ashe Cayne
Our private investigator is Ashe Cayne, who is good at his job. Ashe is honorable, athletic, and always sticks with his integrity. Mechanic is Ashe's muscle, and he always seems to have Ashe's back. These two aren't afraid to walk into the shadiest of businesses or the highest-class joints. Although, don't let this former police detective fool you. He has many sides, including one that requires some vigilante justice now and then.
I have to say that Ashe isn't my favorite character, but he thoroughly keeps things happening and surprises me. In this installment, he seems to have decided to move on with a new relationship with Carolina. This is a smart move, as Carolina is intelligent, classy, connected, and she will love and keep Ashe on his toes.
The Mystery
The family of Walter Griffin asks Ashe to find Walter's killer and prove he didn't commit suicide two years ago. However, this isn't an easy task as Walter is connected to the mayor's office and some shady fellows. No one wants to talk; if they do, they could be the next to meet their demise. The deeper Ashe gets into Walter's life, the more political it seems. Walter had some horrible habits and secrets that not many knew. Then there is the young man, Bryce Horner, who supposedly died while swimming in Lake Michigan. This seems possible, except that Bryce was an excellent swimmer and swam in the lake regularly. Are the two connected, and are their deaths tied together or just a coincidence? Read the book. You won't be sorry.Five Stars
My rating for Wolf Point by Ian K. Smith is Five Stars. While Ashe sometimes comes across as a conceded arse, he constantly surprises me. Dr. Smith writes complex mysteries with characters that are so real. I find that I am looking forward to the next installment. Seriously, what kind of corruption and moral dilemma will Ashe find himself in next time?
Ashe Cayne Mysteries
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Wolf Point by Ian K. Smith.
Check out an interview with Dr. Ian Smith HERE.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
June 2, 2021
Two years after the fact, PI Cayne is asked by the family of a man his father called friend to find out the truth about their father's death. It was ruled a suicide by the CPD and the ME, but those who knew the man believed otherwise. Cayne is a golf addict, former CPD cop, son of a prominent physician, quotes Shakespeare quite often, and still believes in justice. And talk about meticulous due diligence! As a retired nurse, I really appreciated the technical interpretation of the post mortem, but I hated all the food descriptions--made me munch my way through the book!
I requested and received a temporary digital ARC of this book from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I requested and received a temporary digital ARC of this book from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2021
If you read Wolf Point, and it is a good book, you will know all about Chicago. From its surrounding neighborhoods, streets and restaurants. If you did not know Chicago, it could be a little much, as there is a lot of detail. The book demonstrates the murders and political corruption that still plagues Chicago today. (per the news).
Private Investigator, Ashe Cayne is investigating the suicide of Walter Griffin. No one believes it was a suicide. Ashe Cayne's clues lead him in different directions in solving the mystery. There are many characters involved. I actually think too many. But......it is a very good mystery with many twists.
I received this book free from Goodreads for a honest opinion.
Private Investigator, Ashe Cayne is investigating the suicide of Walter Griffin. No one believes it was a suicide. Ashe Cayne's clues lead him in different directions in solving the mystery. There are many characters involved. I actually think too many. But......it is a very good mystery with many twists.
I received this book free from Goodreads for a honest opinion.
March 30, 2022
Wow! Glad I gave this offer a second chance! Second book so much better!! Narrator or was able to utilize his range and really build the characters without the minutiae. I believe you have to read IKS first book as some of those characters are in this book. The author has allowed the character Ashe to remain the focal point which is a good thing. The storyline in my opinion is believable given the setting of Chicago where it’s motto has always been “power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
There is certainly death and heartache in each book and each case Ashe takes on.
Would recommend you read this if you like a fast read and good book.
There is certainly death and heartache in each book and each case Ashe takes on.
Would recommend you read this if you like a fast read and good book.
March 13, 2025
4.75/5…. I really enjoyed this one. I was definitely wondering what happened to Walter. I was keeping tabs on everyone and thinking who could have done it.
Ian K. Smith does a great job with writing this series. Ashe Cayne is very intelligent and witty and loves great food. The side characters are everything (Mechanic, Ashe’s father, Burke, and Carolina).
When I want to read a crime mystery this is what I want to read. It kept me engages all the way though and caught my attention right from the start.
This series could very well be a TV show because I’d definitely watch it. I am a fan through and through for this series.
Ian K. Smith does a great job with writing this series. Ashe Cayne is very intelligent and witty and loves great food. The side characters are everything (Mechanic, Ashe’s father, Burke, and Carolina).
When I want to read a crime mystery this is what I want to read. It kept me engages all the way though and caught my attention right from the start.
This series could very well be a TV show because I’d definitely watch it. I am a fan through and through for this series.
October 12, 2021
A very influential member of Chicago’s political leadership is found dead. Suicide is suspected. Two years later, his family comes to our hero, Ashe Cayne, hiring him to find out what really happened as they don’t believe suicide to be the true cause of death. Ashe does his work and, after a twist or two, solves the mystery. Ashe is a cultured, lovesick ex-Chicago cop who has a reputation for integrity. Chicago plays a big role in the story. The mayor’s name is Bailey and the guy who owns the Bulls and White Sox is named Neinsdorf. Fun.
October 12, 2021
(3 1/2). Ashe Cayne has is one of the brightest stars in the P.I. World. The first book was really good, and this one is just as fun. A brilliant guy, former cop, moderate to total badass, with all the weird friends to match, he is the real deal. He reminds me of a slightly more modern version of Spencer in many ways. This story is complicated. It paints a pretty grim picture of the inner workings of Chicago, but still gives us a taste of its glamour as well. Lots of twists and turns, never ending layers being peeled off and it moves at a breakneck speed. Good stuff.
Read
November 6, 2021Well, I'll have to go back now and read the first one, won't I, because Wolf Point was so damn satisfying! Really rich characters at all levels and nicely complex storylines. I had a bit of trouble following things at times. Maybe more than a bit. Deeply Chicago (I've never been), black lives, high and low (I'm white) and mainly under 40 (I'm 75). And yet I love Ashe Cayne and his wide assortment of friends. I'm immersed in a very different culture, learning about an important city and being entertained at the same time. Win win. A winner here!
November 21, 2021
Ashe Cayne left his law enforcement career to be a private investigator, and pursue real justice.
Ashe Cayne’s previous experience working at the police department has given him all the connections he could need. Walter Griffin’s children are also convinced that he is the one to find out the truth about their father’s death. This time of year, he usually spends less time working so he can focus on his golf handicap, but he makes an exception to find the real story behind this previously high-profile case. Oh, what a tangled web Walter Griffin left. While he was certainly well-known, and everyone talked about how likable he was, no one gets to a position of power without making several enemies.
While he’s working this case by the light of day, Ashe Cayne is also exacting his own version of justice for another crime where no one else can see. Plenty of people may not have approved of his ideas and methods, but there was definitely something karmically satisfying about the good guys getting even.
The Ashe Cayne series is amusing. He’s a great character with a sharp mind, and his randomly dropped literature quotes are fun and shocking to some of the people he has to work with to get to the bottom of the street crimes he’s solving. This book would also stand alone fine, as you are always learning about Ashe Cayne through his adventures. Overall, I’d give this book 3 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading what’s next in the series.
http://booksithinkyoushouldread.blogs...
Ashe Cayne’s previous experience working at the police department has given him all the connections he could need. Walter Griffin’s children are also convinced that he is the one to find out the truth about their father’s death. This time of year, he usually spends less time working so he can focus on his golf handicap, but he makes an exception to find the real story behind this previously high-profile case. Oh, what a tangled web Walter Griffin left. While he was certainly well-known, and everyone talked about how likable he was, no one gets to a position of power without making several enemies.
While he’s working this case by the light of day, Ashe Cayne is also exacting his own version of justice for another crime where no one else can see. Plenty of people may not have approved of his ideas and methods, but there was definitely something karmically satisfying about the good guys getting even.
The Ashe Cayne series is amusing. He’s a great character with a sharp mind, and his randomly dropped literature quotes are fun and shocking to some of the people he has to work with to get to the bottom of the street crimes he’s solving. This book would also stand alone fine, as you are always learning about Ashe Cayne through his adventures. Overall, I’d give this book 3 out of 5 stars and look forward to reading what’s next in the series.
http://booksithinkyoushouldread.blogs...
September 8, 2021
READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books
A gritty look at the dark underbelly of Chicago politics and the dirty games played by those of privilege and means. Ian K. Smith delivers a strong second installment in a new crime series that is not to be missed.
Make sure to check out the full review
A gritty look at the dark underbelly of Chicago politics and the dirty games played by those of privilege and means. Ian K. Smith delivers a strong second installment in a new crime series that is not to be missed.
Make sure to check out the full review
October 8, 2021
Although I have never lived in Chicago, it is a place nearby and has always been been part of my life, from listening to WLS radio as a kid to visiting with my youngest grandson and plenty of adventures in between.
Ashe is a tough guy private investigator and every story has him helping to dole out some street justice. Every story! All two of them. The other characters are hardly understood, except maybe his father. Good stories though.
Ashe is a tough guy private investigator and every story has him helping to dole out some street justice. Every story! All two of them. The other characters are hardly understood, except maybe his father. Good stories though.
October 9, 2021
Chicago corruption very well done
A well developed protagonist in A she Wayne without proposing him for sainthood. Skillfully crafted snapshots of relationships begging to be characterized as to suspect potential or leading lady candidate. Smooth turns to reveal surprising, dramatic plot twist. The objective of Cayne's closely held, fierce sense of right is established and should lead to Ashe Cayne , book 2.
A well developed protagonist in A she Wayne without proposing him for sainthood. Skillfully crafted snapshots of relationships begging to be characterized as to suspect potential or leading lady candidate. Smooth turns to reveal surprising, dramatic plot twist. The objective of Cayne's closely held, fierce sense of right is established and should lead to Ashe Cayne , book 2.
October 19, 2021
Page Turner
I picked up this book and loved off it. So I went to Unspoken, another of his books, and Kindle politely told me I had read it months ago! After a short foray I remembered the story and was pleased to find more of his work. Great, relatable characters and what a twisty mind he has! I've lived in Chicagoland for the last 26 years and can see this going on behind closed doors. Read and enjoy!
I picked up this book and loved off it. So I went to Unspoken, another of his books, and Kindle politely told me I had read it months ago! After a short foray I remembered the story and was pleased to find more of his work. Great, relatable characters and what a twisty mind he has! I've lived in Chicagoland for the last 26 years and can see this going on behind closed doors. Read and enjoy!
November 7, 2021
Howling Good!!
The writer gives us of a classic whodunit, with a.story.with.more.twist.and.turns like a winding road. The story moves at such a steady pace that you get a sense of that's its unfolding right before you or on a movie screen.The main character is very likable and with a sense of humor loaded with a lot of smart a**. This is just stellar writing ,with a big city corruption plot.
The writer gives us of a classic whodunit, with a.story.with.more.twist.and.turns like a winding road. The story moves at such a steady pace that you get a sense of that's its unfolding right before you or on a movie screen.The main character is very likable and with a sense of humor loaded with a lot of smart a**. This is just stellar writing ,with a big city corruption plot.
December 15, 2021
Snarky PI, good read
I thought this was a pretty good read. Ashe Cayne is snarky and I found the dialogue a lot of fun because of it. Overall, it was a good mystery that I didn't know how it was going to end.
I haven't read the other book(s), so I don't know if I'm missing anything important, but I feel that it worked well as a standalone and don't feel like I was missing anything. I think people would be fine starting out with this book if they do choose.
I thought this was a pretty good read. Ashe Cayne is snarky and I found the dialogue a lot of fun because of it. Overall, it was a good mystery that I didn't know how it was going to end.
I haven't read the other book(s), so I don't know if I'm missing anything important, but I feel that it worked well as a standalone and don't feel like I was missing anything. I think people would be fine starting out with this book if they do choose.
September 9, 2022
This book was written by a straight guy for straight guys- and there's nothing wrong with that. However, the constant golfing sequences and references to nutrition and diet habits (the author coincidentally having written several diet books) took from the story. The plot was average and the suspense was barely there- and the graphic abuse of the teenage/young adult criminal by the protagonist was bizarre and didn't fit with the story.
March 9, 2025
This was an enjoyable mystery. The protagonist, Ashe Cayne, reminded me a bit of of Spenser, of Robert B. Parker fame. A likeable private investigator who has a deadly sidekick, and is somewhat of a romantic as he maneuvers his way through a trio of relationships. The story kept me guessing who committed the murder of a high ranking Chicago Public School official with a lot of political clout and never knew who the killer was until it was revealed in the end. A good read.
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