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Micah and Layne Get Short: 15 Thriller Stories
Unlikely heroes. Relentless villains. Fifteen stories of nail-biting tension.
Micah Reed and Layne Parrish are an odd choice for a crime-fighting duo. One is a retired spy and the other a retired criminal, but their pasts won’t matter when their backs hit the wall.
Because sometimes they have to get their hands dirty.
Leading this collection with the brand new novella Eat The Bear, Micah races to New Orleans to confront a threat that might reach a little too close to home…
Micah and Layne Get Short is a collection of fifteen action thriller and crime shorts. If you like shocking twists, bite-sized fun, and humor mixed with your thrills, you’ll love Jim Heskett’s captivating collection.
Micah Reed and Layne Parrish are an odd choice for a crime-fighting duo. One is a retired spy and the other a retired criminal, but their pasts won’t matter when their backs hit the wall.
Because sometimes they have to get their hands dirty.
Leading this collection with the brand new novella Eat The Bear, Micah races to New Orleans to confront a threat that might reach a little too close to home…
Micah and Layne Get Short is a collection of fifteen action thriller and crime shorts. If you like shocking twists, bite-sized fun, and humor mixed with your thrills, you’ll love Jim Heskett’s captivating collection.
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2020
43 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Jim Heskett
68 books252 followersJim Heskett is a writer of short and long fiction, currently slaving away at a laptop in an undisclosed location in Broomfield, Colorado. Details about previous and future publications can be found at www.jimheskett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 19, 2020
As a general rule, I don’t like short stories. They seem to lack depth in the plots and character development. There’s just not enough time to make it all come together. With the lack of plot and characterization comes boredom then I’m out like a light.
Fortunately, that wasn’t the case of this collection. I liked every one of them. Some of the characters I was familiar with, some were new to me. The stories ranged from suspense to thriller to comedy, each with their own dynamic and uniqueness. None of them needed to be longer, which surprised me. They lacked nothing.
I give this book five stars.
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.
See below for my reviews of the individual stories.
~~~~~~
Eat the Bear
A Micah & Serena Novella
Who would have thought that Micah and Serena would make such a great team? I guess I kind of figured they would, but she does all of her work with Layne Parrish who is in Paris for the next few weeks.
The story starts out with Dallas, a female assassin scoping out a river boat casino in New Orleans. Her hit is Kellen McBriar, Michael McBriar aka Micah Reed’s brother. Kellen has crossed the wrong people and they’re angry. She doesn’t have a whole lot of time to get the job done, but being a greedy glory monger, she decides to set her sights on Micah, too. Despite his disguise, she recognized him in the casino as he tries to find his brother. Not contact him. He just wants to protect him.
But nothing is ever that easy for Micah. He and Serena combine their efforts to quietly subdue Dallas and her unwanted accomplice, Alabama. They don’t want to bring any attention to themselves, and Micah can never let Kellen know that he’s alive and that he saved him from being murdered.
I really loved this story. It was fast paced, unpredictable, and had an ending that had me in tears. I don’t think I’ve ever read a lonelier character than Micah Reed. My heart broke into a million pieces for him.
Now that the sob fest is over, on to…
Game Day
A Layne & Micah Novella
I first read and reviewed this story back in November 2019. It was part of an anthology called Dead of Winter and several authors had contributed to the book, which was a five-star read overall, in case you’re wondering.
I was pretty happy to see it again in this book because I’m such an avid fan of Layne Parrish and Micah Reed and the story is so good. I love these two characters so much.
What stood out for me the first time I read it is much the same as it was when I read it again. The friendship between these two is unbelievably strong. If I had a friend who would take a hit for me like Layne did for Micah, I don’t know what I would do.
Not only is there some witty banter between the two as they wait for a Christmas Day basketball game to start, Layne asks Micah if Micah is okay with Layne getting a beer. Anybody who has read Micah Reed knows that he’s an alcoholic. I thought that was considerate of Layne and only a true friend would even think of that. But as the story unfolds and the action starts on the court—and we aren’t talking about basketball action, folks—does the depth of their friendship become apparent. I don’t want to say too much to avoid spoilers, but this is a story that is filled with action, suspense, is white-knuckled to the end, and a true testament of the relationship between Layne Parrish and Micah Reed.
That is all.
Micah Goes on a Date
A Micah Reed Long Short
Lonely Micah Reed going on a date? What could be better? He hasn’t been on a real date in years. It’s time for him to get some female companionship.
Swanky restaurant? Check
Numerous glasses of water? Check
Sweaty palms? Check
His date is late? Check
When he first meets Elise, his blind date, he can’t believe his luck. She’s Barbie doll gorgeous with blonde hair and a shiny red dress. The problem was he was competing with her phone for attention. Then it turned into a real sh*t show.
It was so the luck of Micah to have this date go like this. I almost laughed at the loser-ness of it all. But Micah wasn’t a loser. Not really. He was acting on good faith and put himself out there because he was lonely, although that isn’t mentioned at all in the story. I know that because I’ve read every Micah Reed story ever written (I think). I was hoping for a happily ever after with this slick chick, but it just wasn’t meant to be. Then he thinks it’s not the worst date he’s ever been on. I’d hate to see what was.
The Layne Parrish Restaurant Stories
Five stories that all begin with the same scenario
All the stories start with Layne stomping snow from his boots in the doorway of the Firehouse restaurant in South Fork. He wants a table and not a booth, except in Story 3 where he requests a booth, and picks up the menu from between the ketchup and mustard dispensers. After that, every story is different with different endings.
I don’t feel as if I can review these stories individually. They aren’t long at all and to say anything about them would be giving spoilers. Suffice it to say, they don’t call Layne Parrish “Boy Scout” for nothing.
I’ll be Right Back
Harry & Serena
Harry Boukadakis is a computer dude and works behind the scenes with Layne Parrish and Serena Rojas, and Daphne Kurek.
In this particular short story, he’s driving Serena through the countryside and has no idea why. She finally tells him to stop behind a pool hall. She’s doing some personal business while he waits in the car. He watches her and it’s all good until one of the men she subdued decides to harass him and Harry has to pull a gun.
Okay, I laughed at Harry. I don’t know if I should’ve or not, but he reminded me of a little old lady who is trying to confront a robber with a gun that’s bigger than she is. Maybe it’s not that bad, but he was shaking, didn’t know if the gun was loaded, or if the safety was on or off...the guy who was harassing him ran off, begging Harry not to shoot him.
I don’t know why I thought this short story was so funny, but it made me laugh. Sorry, Harry. I still love ya, dude!
By the way, I really love the title of this story. It was so spot on.
I Go by Tim
There’s actually a moral to this story. Be careful of what you say and who you say it to. Chances are it’s going to come back on you in spades. Maybe not today, or tomorrow, or even the next day, but everybody pays.
The End
Instant Message
A Tucker Candle Short Story
You know when you send a nasty message to the wrong person and you know it’s going to create a serious problem if they see it? Yeah, that. Tucker Candle is one brave dude, ha ha!
Shots and Strippers
A Crime Short Story
This is a clever short story about four guys who are buddies and seem to be playing the simple drinking game of Quarters. At first, I thought these guys were office friends. You know, the type that stand around the water cooler and talk smack about the boss. It wasn’t like that at all. These guys are rougher and tougher and ultimately, are going to party with some strippers.
It all goes well until it doesn’t anymore. This is a story of revenge and jealousy and has a semi-happy ending.
Kill the King
A silly espionage thriller novella
This was a bizarre tale that had the feeling of being set in Medieval times, with the arrogance and domination of the king, his sons, a royal taste tester, a vast kitchen crew, that sort of thing, but it’s really set much more recently. We have guards speaking into their sleeves, guns, suits, etc. It was a hodge-podge for a setting, but I envisioned the king wearing a fur robe, a crown, and big buckled shoes while the royal taste tester was wearing a doublet and funky poofy pants and hose. It was archaic yet modern. It was a strange combination, but it worked.
The king really did need to die. He was a total narcissist and an egomaniac. He was vicious, cruel, cold, and even dumb. His kids weren’t much better, but they were such a minor part of the story and it didn’t matter.
I liked the story a lot. I wasn’t sure how it was going to end. Was the king really going to die or was he going to escape this?
Dalton and the Bear
A Reagan’s Ashes thriller novella
I have to admit that I’ve owned Reagan’s Ashes since 2017 and haven’t read it yet. Frankly, I forgot I had it. It’s now been moved closer to the top of my TBR list.
In this story, Dalton and Charlie, who are brothers, find themselves alone after Reagan, their cousin, took off on them during a backpacking trip. They meet up with a stranger who tags along with them until they run him off. What could go wrong?
One thing I wasn’t sure of was just how old these boys were. I know Dalton is out of high school, but Charlie seemed much younger. It probably doesn’t matter. Charlie has twisted his ankle and is having some mobility issues while Dalton comes in as the fierce, protective big brother.
I liked this story and it’s made me want to read the book.
Contraband: A Silly Story of Suspense
This started out on an eerie note with a lone woman going to the movies. She’s obviously frightened and apprehensive of what, I didn’t know. She’s paranoid, looking around…you get the idea. I thought she might have a bomb or something in her purse. I didn’t know what her deal was, but I soon found out and burst out laughing. I was surprised at the whole deal and what her name was. I won’t say anything else other than the author is right!
Fortunately, that wasn’t the case of this collection. I liked every one of them. Some of the characters I was familiar with, some were new to me. The stories ranged from suspense to thriller to comedy, each with their own dynamic and uniqueness. None of them needed to be longer, which surprised me. They lacked nothing.
I give this book five stars.
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.
See below for my reviews of the individual stories.
~~~~~~
Eat the Bear
A Micah & Serena Novella
Who would have thought that Micah and Serena would make such a great team? I guess I kind of figured they would, but she does all of her work with Layne Parrish who is in Paris for the next few weeks.
The story starts out with Dallas, a female assassin scoping out a river boat casino in New Orleans. Her hit is Kellen McBriar, Michael McBriar aka Micah Reed’s brother. Kellen has crossed the wrong people and they’re angry. She doesn’t have a whole lot of time to get the job done, but being a greedy glory monger, she decides to set her sights on Micah, too. Despite his disguise, she recognized him in the casino as he tries to find his brother. Not contact him. He just wants to protect him.
But nothing is ever that easy for Micah. He and Serena combine their efforts to quietly subdue Dallas and her unwanted accomplice, Alabama. They don’t want to bring any attention to themselves, and Micah can never let Kellen know that he’s alive and that he saved him from being murdered.
I really loved this story. It was fast paced, unpredictable, and had an ending that had me in tears. I don’t think I’ve ever read a lonelier character than Micah Reed. My heart broke into a million pieces for him.
Now that the sob fest is over, on to…
Game Day
A Layne & Micah Novella
I first read and reviewed this story back in November 2019. It was part of an anthology called Dead of Winter and several authors had contributed to the book, which was a five-star read overall, in case you’re wondering.
I was pretty happy to see it again in this book because I’m such an avid fan of Layne Parrish and Micah Reed and the story is so good. I love these two characters so much.
What stood out for me the first time I read it is much the same as it was when I read it again. The friendship between these two is unbelievably strong. If I had a friend who would take a hit for me like Layne did for Micah, I don’t know what I would do.
Not only is there some witty banter between the two as they wait for a Christmas Day basketball game to start, Layne asks Micah if Micah is okay with Layne getting a beer. Anybody who has read Micah Reed knows that he’s an alcoholic. I thought that was considerate of Layne and only a true friend would even think of that. But as the story unfolds and the action starts on the court—and we aren’t talking about basketball action, folks—does the depth of their friendship become apparent. I don’t want to say too much to avoid spoilers, but this is a story that is filled with action, suspense, is white-knuckled to the end, and a true testament of the relationship between Layne Parrish and Micah Reed.
That is all.
Micah Goes on a Date
A Micah Reed Long Short
Lonely Micah Reed going on a date? What could be better? He hasn’t been on a real date in years. It’s time for him to get some female companionship.
Swanky restaurant? Check
Numerous glasses of water? Check
Sweaty palms? Check
His date is late? Check
When he first meets Elise, his blind date, he can’t believe his luck. She’s Barbie doll gorgeous with blonde hair and a shiny red dress. The problem was he was competing with her phone for attention. Then it turned into a real sh*t show.
It was so the luck of Micah to have this date go like this. I almost laughed at the loser-ness of it all. But Micah wasn’t a loser. Not really. He was acting on good faith and put himself out there because he was lonely, although that isn’t mentioned at all in the story. I know that because I’ve read every Micah Reed story ever written (I think). I was hoping for a happily ever after with this slick chick, but it just wasn’t meant to be. Then he thinks it’s not the worst date he’s ever been on. I’d hate to see what was.
The Layne Parrish Restaurant Stories
Five stories that all begin with the same scenario
All the stories start with Layne stomping snow from his boots in the doorway of the Firehouse restaurant in South Fork. He wants a table and not a booth, except in Story 3 where he requests a booth, and picks up the menu from between the ketchup and mustard dispensers. After that, every story is different with different endings.
I don’t feel as if I can review these stories individually. They aren’t long at all and to say anything about them would be giving spoilers. Suffice it to say, they don’t call Layne Parrish “Boy Scout” for nothing.
I’ll be Right Back
Harry & Serena
Harry Boukadakis is a computer dude and works behind the scenes with Layne Parrish and Serena Rojas, and Daphne Kurek.
In this particular short story, he’s driving Serena through the countryside and has no idea why. She finally tells him to stop behind a pool hall. She’s doing some personal business while he waits in the car. He watches her and it’s all good until one of the men she subdued decides to harass him and Harry has to pull a gun.
Okay, I laughed at Harry. I don’t know if I should’ve or not, but he reminded me of a little old lady who is trying to confront a robber with a gun that’s bigger than she is. Maybe it’s not that bad, but he was shaking, didn’t know if the gun was loaded, or if the safety was on or off...the guy who was harassing him ran off, begging Harry not to shoot him.
I don’t know why I thought this short story was so funny, but it made me laugh. Sorry, Harry. I still love ya, dude!
By the way, I really love the title of this story. It was so spot on.
I Go by Tim
There’s actually a moral to this story. Be careful of what you say and who you say it to. Chances are it’s going to come back on you in spades. Maybe not today, or tomorrow, or even the next day, but everybody pays.
The End
Instant Message
A Tucker Candle Short Story
You know when you send a nasty message to the wrong person and you know it’s going to create a serious problem if they see it? Yeah, that. Tucker Candle is one brave dude, ha ha!
Shots and Strippers
A Crime Short Story
This is a clever short story about four guys who are buddies and seem to be playing the simple drinking game of Quarters. At first, I thought these guys were office friends. You know, the type that stand around the water cooler and talk smack about the boss. It wasn’t like that at all. These guys are rougher and tougher and ultimately, are going to party with some strippers.
It all goes well until it doesn’t anymore. This is a story of revenge and jealousy and has a semi-happy ending.
Kill the King
A silly espionage thriller novella
This was a bizarre tale that had the feeling of being set in Medieval times, with the arrogance and domination of the king, his sons, a royal taste tester, a vast kitchen crew, that sort of thing, but it’s really set much more recently. We have guards speaking into their sleeves, guns, suits, etc. It was a hodge-podge for a setting, but I envisioned the king wearing a fur robe, a crown, and big buckled shoes while the royal taste tester was wearing a doublet and funky poofy pants and hose. It was archaic yet modern. It was a strange combination, but it worked.
The king really did need to die. He was a total narcissist and an egomaniac. He was vicious, cruel, cold, and even dumb. His kids weren’t much better, but they were such a minor part of the story and it didn’t matter.
I liked the story a lot. I wasn’t sure how it was going to end. Was the king really going to die or was he going to escape this?
Dalton and the Bear
A Reagan’s Ashes thriller novella
I have to admit that I’ve owned Reagan’s Ashes since 2017 and haven’t read it yet. Frankly, I forgot I had it. It’s now been moved closer to the top of my TBR list.
In this story, Dalton and Charlie, who are brothers, find themselves alone after Reagan, their cousin, took off on them during a backpacking trip. They meet up with a stranger who tags along with them until they run him off. What could go wrong?
One thing I wasn’t sure of was just how old these boys were. I know Dalton is out of high school, but Charlie seemed much younger. It probably doesn’t matter. Charlie has twisted his ankle and is having some mobility issues while Dalton comes in as the fierce, protective big brother.
I liked this story and it’s made me want to read the book.
Contraband: A Silly Story of Suspense
This started out on an eerie note with a lone woman going to the movies. She’s obviously frightened and apprehensive of what, I didn’t know. She’s paranoid, looking around…you get the idea. I thought she might have a bomb or something in her purse. I didn’t know what her deal was, but I soon found out and burst out laughing. I was surprised at the whole deal and what her name was. I won’t say anything else other than the author is right!
September 26, 2020
Collection of imaginative, fast-moving stories which are not interrelated - 4 stars
You will recognize Micah and Layne from Jim Heskett's Assassin series adventures. Layne and Micah are still the always-win-no-matter-what-odds heroes that made the Assassins into a fun-to-read sequence. Here, we get to see a few new characters. You know immediately who is on the good guys side; action accelerates immediately in each story.
Starting with a number of assassins on a Mississippi River gambling boat, rather than a shoot-them-up on the boat, bullets fly in a rundown area not too far from the river to avoid massacring innocents. It is easy to imagine the appearance of one killer who chooses to swim to the boat and does a quick change. Having one "team" of assassins argue with each other is a new-to-me plot twist.
If you have been wondering if Micah has any interest in dating, there is a wonderful story of a curvaceous attention getter who seems to more than fashionably late. Still the alcohol abstaining guy, Micah seems to have lucked out finding a pretty woman until there is a restaurant invasion by a slew of gun toting robbers. You might die laughing.
A series of five restaurant experiences has Layne Parrish enter the same Colorado snow country restaurant with five different endings. It is a blast.
"I Go by Tim" describes an unlikely 20th high school reunion with a twist. "I'll be Right Back" has a good O'Henry style surprise. "Kill the King" has a current day food taster for an unpopular, dictatorial king. And the taster eats a doctored muffin (but you will have to read the story to find out what happens -- it is a surprise!). These stories are memorable and fanciful.
Jim Heskett has given us a fine set of short stories which move quickly; they are definitely worth a read! Dig in.
You will recognize Micah and Layne from Jim Heskett's Assassin series adventures. Layne and Micah are still the always-win-no-matter-what-odds heroes that made the Assassins into a fun-to-read sequence. Here, we get to see a few new characters. You know immediately who is on the good guys side; action accelerates immediately in each story.
Starting with a number of assassins on a Mississippi River gambling boat, rather than a shoot-them-up on the boat, bullets fly in a rundown area not too far from the river to avoid massacring innocents. It is easy to imagine the appearance of one killer who chooses to swim to the boat and does a quick change. Having one "team" of assassins argue with each other is a new-to-me plot twist.
If you have been wondering if Micah has any interest in dating, there is a wonderful story of a curvaceous attention getter who seems to more than fashionably late. Still the alcohol abstaining guy, Micah seems to have lucked out finding a pretty woman until there is a restaurant invasion by a slew of gun toting robbers. You might die laughing.
A series of five restaurant experiences has Layne Parrish enter the same Colorado snow country restaurant with five different endings. It is a blast.
"I Go by Tim" describes an unlikely 20th high school reunion with a twist. "I'll be Right Back" has a good O'Henry style surprise. "Kill the King" has a current day food taster for an unpopular, dictatorial king. And the taster eats a doctored muffin (but you will have to read the story to find out what happens -- it is a surprise!). These stories are memorable and fanciful.
Jim Heskett has given us a fine set of short stories which move quickly; they are definitely worth a read! Dig in.
January 24, 2021
Micah and Layne Get Short - a review by Rosemary Kenny
A collection of 15 short stories by Jim Heskett covering a host of differently topiced novellas, the first eight featuring either Layne Parrish &/or Micah Reed, Jim Heskett's alternatives to James Bond and Jason Bourne.
1)
On a New Orleans floating casino, Micah, Serena and female assassin Dallas play a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, with the loser paying with their lives!
2) Game Day:
Layne Parrish and Micah Reed get involved in a hunt-the-neo-Nazis at a basketball game... it's a slam-dunk win for the good guys!
3)Micah Goes on a Date:
Shades of Pulp Fiction's diner scene...with a twist!
4-8) The Layne Parrish Restaurant Stories:
#1: A mesmerising short story.
#2: Oh what a tangled web we weave!
#3: No good deed goes unpunished...
#4: Layne saves a life?
#5: Crime doesn't pay!
9) Harry and Serena:
The duo make a good team, while retrieving a valuable keepsake from thieves.
10)I go by Tim:
Vengeance is a dish best served cold.
11) Instant Message:
The email is mightier than the sword!
12) Shots and Strippers:
All good things come to him who waits.
13) Kill the King:
Keep your family and 'friends' close as (they're) your enemies.
14) Dalton and the Bear:
Nature (trails)...red in tooth and (Bear's) claw!
15) Contraband:
Dishonour among thieves...?
An amazing value-for-money collection of shorts, that will while away many happy and exciting hours during Lockdown and beyond, for yourself or as a great gift, for any spy/crime-thriller fan friend you know... you/they're guaranteed to love it.
Grab a copy today and see if you're as good a detective and spy as Micah Reed and Layne Parrish, two of Jim Heskett's heroes in hiding!
A collection of 15 short stories by Jim Heskett covering a host of differently topiced novellas, the first eight featuring either Layne Parrish &/or Micah Reed, Jim Heskett's alternatives to James Bond and Jason Bourne.
1)
On a New Orleans floating casino, Micah, Serena and female assassin Dallas play a deadly game of cat-and-mouse, with the loser paying with their lives!
2) Game Day:
Layne Parrish and Micah Reed get involved in a hunt-the-neo-Nazis at a basketball game... it's a slam-dunk win for the good guys!
3)Micah Goes on a Date:
Shades of Pulp Fiction's diner scene...with a twist!
4-8) The Layne Parrish Restaurant Stories:
#1: A mesmerising short story.
#2: Oh what a tangled web we weave!
#3: No good deed goes unpunished...
#4: Layne saves a life?
#5: Crime doesn't pay!
9) Harry and Serena:
The duo make a good team, while retrieving a valuable keepsake from thieves.
10)I go by Tim:
Vengeance is a dish best served cold.
11) Instant Message:
The email is mightier than the sword!
12) Shots and Strippers:
All good things come to him who waits.
13) Kill the King:
Keep your family and 'friends' close as (they're) your enemies.
14) Dalton and the Bear:
Nature (trails)...red in tooth and (Bear's) claw!
15) Contraband:
Dishonour among thieves...?
An amazing value-for-money collection of shorts, that will while away many happy and exciting hours during Lockdown and beyond, for yourself or as a great gift, for any spy/crime-thriller fan friend you know... you/they're guaranteed to love it.
Grab a copy today and see if you're as good a detective and spy as Micah Reed and Layne Parrish, two of Jim Heskett's heroes in hiding!
September 27, 2020
Overall, I really enjoyed the collection. The reader does not have to be familiar with Layne and Micah, which is a plus - this can be an introduction. There is also a lot in here, so it’s a bargain to get it all as one volume. Of course, with short stories it’s difficult to get a reader to think every single one is a five star piece of work, but there's something for everyone. My personal favorites were:
- I’ll Be Right Back - This made me laugh out loud, and I even thought about it the next day and laughed again.
- I Go By Tim - Unexpected twist, which I loved.
- Instant Message - So relatable!
- Shots and Strippers.
- Kill the King - Certainly a different kind of thriller, but good tension.
- Contraband - Another one that made me laugh. So true how we think everyone knows what we’re up to when doing anything nefarious!
I also really enjoyed the concept behind Restaurant Stories (which I had read before). I like the idea that whatever we do in life, we have no idea really what is coming next - and anything could happen. It’s clever and enjoyable. The stories ranged from funny to interesting to sad.
Fun book, great value.
- I’ll Be Right Back - This made me laugh out loud, and I even thought about it the next day and laughed again.
- I Go By Tim - Unexpected twist, which I loved.
- Instant Message - So relatable!
- Shots and Strippers.
- Kill the King - Certainly a different kind of thriller, but good tension.
- Contraband - Another one that made me laugh. So true how we think everyone knows what we’re up to when doing anything nefarious!
I also really enjoyed the concept behind Restaurant Stories (which I had read before). I like the idea that whatever we do in life, we have no idea really what is coming next - and anything could happen. It’s clever and enjoyable. The stories ranged from funny to interesting to sad.
Fun book, great value.
September 29, 2020
For those times when you're really missing Jim Heskett's popular heroes but don't have time to tackle a whole novel, this short story collection is perfect.
I love both Micah Reed and Layne Parish as heroes and this collection gave me a quick fix with 4 stories (2 Micah, 1 Layne and 1 featuring both heroes, but it also offered a handful of other short stories which contain a regicide, a deadly encounter in Rocky Mountain National Park, strippers at a private party, a misdirected e-mail and a high school reunion among other things. They run the range from funny and light hearted to deadly serious and all are told with Heskett's usual attention to detail and fast paced style.
I loved Micah and Layne Get Short and I heartily recommend it whether you're a fan of Heskett's work looking or a quick fix or a new reader wanting to find out what to expect of hi two series.
There's something or everyone in this book.
I love both Micah Reed and Layne Parish as heroes and this collection gave me a quick fix with 4 stories (2 Micah, 1 Layne and 1 featuring both heroes, but it also offered a handful of other short stories which contain a regicide, a deadly encounter in Rocky Mountain National Park, strippers at a private party, a misdirected e-mail and a high school reunion among other things. They run the range from funny and light hearted to deadly serious and all are told with Heskett's usual attention to detail and fast paced style.
I loved Micah and Layne Get Short and I heartily recommend it whether you're a fan of Heskett's work looking or a quick fix or a new reader wanting to find out what to expect of hi two series.
There's something or everyone in this book.
October 6, 2020
As a fan of Jim Heskett’s writing I was naturally excited to read this collection. It’s a great mix that shines a light on some of his secondary characters, gives us stories of some completely new ones and, of course, features his most famous duo Micah Reed and Layne Parrish. It’s an enthralling read with each story holding the attention of the reader. What the author has successfully achieved is creating stories that are shorter, or even short stories, but each is a fully formed story. I personally liked Kill The King and would be fascinated to see more of the world it contains. If you’re a fan of Jim Heskett’s previous writing then this is a must. If you’re new to the author’s work then this couldn’t be a better showcase of what you can expect from his other books. This is a great collection that is sure to entertain.
September 28, 2020
This was a nice collection of short stories, not necessarily related to each other. The stories ran the gamut from assassins, terrorists, thieves who blow up things, killers from your past, and a bunch in between. Some stories were short and some a lot longer, but all were quick reads. I think my favorite twist was five stories, presented the same, but with slight differences and thus, different outcomes. It was cool to see how the mind of an author can change a story completely with just a few small changes. This was a fun way to pass a Sunday evenings.
I received an ARC from the author, but I leave my reviews because I want to let others know what a book is like.
I received an ARC from the author, but I leave my reviews because I want to let others know what a book is like.
October 6, 2020
This group of 15 stories definitely maintain your interest throughout
Here is a set of disparate tales of Micah Reed and Layne Parrish. There are several separate stories about each of the two individually and a couple that includes both.
The second one, entitled Game Day, have the two attending a basketball game. And you have to smile when Micah explains the basics of the game to Layne when it would otherwise be easily discovered by him. It identifies the banter between the two long-time friends.
The most unusual treat in the book are five stories with Layne wherein all five start out with the same scenario.
You will certainly find yourself engrossed in all fifteen stories.
Here is a set of disparate tales of Micah Reed and Layne Parrish. There are several separate stories about each of the two individually and a couple that includes both.
The second one, entitled Game Day, have the two attending a basketball game. And you have to smile when Micah explains the basics of the game to Layne when it would otherwise be easily discovered by him. It identifies the banter between the two long-time friends.
The most unusual treat in the book are five stories with Layne wherein all five start out with the same scenario.
You will certainly find yourself engrossed in all fifteen stories.
October 5, 2020
Fifteen stories of testosterone-laced action, with a little humor thrown in. Jim Heskett provides tales based on some of his menu of characters while throwing a few new ones. Each story stands alone and provides a slightly different take on the winner-take-all character(s) who doesn't necessarily let ethics or morality get in the way. The stories are fast-paced and entertaining. They are a set of good reads when you need something diverting.
Note: I received this book from the author and am freely providing this unbiased review.
Note: I received this book from the author and am freely providing this unbiased review.
October 6, 2020
All of Jim Heskett's books are good and this collection is no different. If you aren't familiar with this author or these two heroes, this is a great way to get introduced.
Unlike most short stories these are real stories. They are fully developed with good plots, interesting characters both old and new, as well as lots of twists and turns and surprises. They are well worth your time and will provide a great deal of entertainment.
I received a free advanced copy but the review and opinions are my own honest comments.
Unlike most short stories these are real stories. They are fully developed with good plots, interesting characters both old and new, as well as lots of twists and turns and surprises. They are well worth your time and will provide a great deal of entertainment.
I received a free advanced copy but the review and opinions are my own honest comments.
June 29, 2021
Only 2/3 Micah and Layne...
This book contains 10 stories that are about Micah or Layne, five of which start the same and then spin off in different directions.The remaining 5 feature other characters. One is Serena and Harry. While the 5 stories with the same beginning but different endings is an intriguing and inventive idea, it does seem a trifle like cheating? While I enjoyed all the stories, even the last one a hoot on teenage rebellion, they do not capture the essence of the longer stories, hence the lower rating. Enjoyable but not essential reading.
This book contains 10 stories that are about Micah or Layne, five of which start the same and then spin off in different directions.The remaining 5 feature other characters. One is Serena and Harry. While the 5 stories with the same beginning but different endings is an intriguing and inventive idea, it does seem a trifle like cheating? While I enjoyed all the stories, even the last one a hoot on teenage rebellion, they do not capture the essence of the longer stories, hence the lower rating. Enjoyable but not essential reading.
September 26, 2020
An interesting concept-start the story with the same lead in, and let the story lead where it takes you. Jim Heskett does it again by keeping you in your chair until the end. Excellent character development(Jim’s characters maintain their integrity and the plot does not cause them to waver at all), Layne can be stabbed, shot, burned and beaten, but he will maintain his character at all costs...
Loved the shorts, would like more!
Loved the shorts, would like more!
September 26, 2020
Loved, loved, loved these short stories getting to know these two superb characters a little more. Jim writes these two people in such a way you feel that they are friends/colleagues you actually know. So great is his writing. I've always thought that Layne was my favourite but getting to know what Micha has been through and is now so changed....who knows he could be my new favourite! Thank you Jim Heskett for another Wonderful book...
October 6, 2020
I found this a very interesting mix of short stories. The ones involving Micah, Layne and Serena are all really good quick reads with my favourites being the Layne Parish restaurant stories, Micah goes on a date and Serena's I'll be right back. All of these contain good paced action mixed in with lots of humorous banter. The other stories are more of a mixed bag and some appealed more than others, but all in all this was an enjoyable collection and very well worth reading.
October 6, 2020
Having read the Micah and Layne books previously I was looking forward reading this set of short stories. A number of them I was reading for a second time which got me to notice some things I didn't realize the first time around. Some of them are better than others but on average they are worth a solid four star. If you're new to Micah and Layne this is a good way to get a feeling for them. This is an easy and fun read that will have you looking for Jim Heskett other books.
October 6, 2020
Jim Heskett never disappoints me! There are 15 short stories in this collection and each one is worth reading. There is action in some, humor in some, and suspense in some. Some stories involve Micah and Layne. Those can always be depended on to be entertaining, but the others are just as good. This is a wonderful collection and I highly recommend it. This review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy from the author
September 25, 2020
I thought from the title that it would be 15 stories about Micah and Layne. After the first few they switched to just Layne in a groundhog day for multiple chapters with parts changing in each one. Many of the stories left me wanting more. Overall, it was a interesting array of stories. Jim Heskett is a good creative story teller.
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September 28, 2020Micah and Layne Get Short: 15 Thriller Stories, my thirty-seventh read from author Jim Heskett. Missing Micah? Missing Layne? An excellent read, a collection of short reads that you can't wait to turn the next page and read more. I was given a Kindle copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
October 6, 2020
I received this book as an Arc from the author. I’m writing a review because I honestly loved it! I’ve read several books by this author. I’m never disappointed! An unbelievable pairing of these two as partners. Exciting, nail-biting, and the characters are believable and the plot is good! Highly recommended!
October 15, 2020
This is a fun collection of short stories. Just to let you know it's not only about Micah and Layne which I was kind of disappointed with. In my opinion this gives you a taste of Jim Heskett's writing. I found there is plenty of suspense and action. Some of the stories I wanted more. I guess that's the secret leave the reader wanting more. I read on Kindle Unlimited.
September 25, 2020
This book presents the reader with short stories about their favorite characters. The variety will keep the reader glued for a long time. Each story will bring memories back in some cases and new stories for others. The writing is excellent and you definitely will enjoy this collection.
October 1, 2020
15 good short stories, I read them between other books, when I just wanted to read for a short time. Thoroughly enjoyed them. Need to remind myself not to go to Firehouse Restaurant with Layne Parrish lol
October 8, 2020
These writings are short, and are amazingly diverse in their construction and storyline. The section where give different stories all begin with the same introductory words was delightful. Well worth the read!
March 1, 2021
Great collection!
If you are familiar with Micah and Layne, you will really enjoy these short stories. If you have not read any of their stories, these might get you hooked. Also includes other great short stories.
If you are familiar with Micah and Layne, you will really enjoy these short stories. If you have not read any of their stories, these might get you hooked. Also includes other great short stories.
March 2, 2021
A variety of stories
A true variety of different stories from many different prospective. It is a good read but you need to be able to shift your concentration to be able to keep up with the different situations and characters
A true variety of different stories from many different prospective. It is a good read but you need to be able to shift your concentration to be able to keep up with the different situations and characters
April 1, 2021
A Rollercoaster Story Ride
This book was full of surprises. All short stories that cover the gamut of genre. Thrillers all but some were quirky, some were more serious and some were puzzlers. I enjoyed them all.
This book was full of surprises. All short stories that cover the gamut of genre. Thrillers all but some were quirky, some were more serious and some were puzzlers. I enjoyed them all.
September 26, 2020
A good collection of short stories starring Micah & Layne! Good for dipping in & out of! A fun assortment of ideas & story lines!
October 7, 2020
A book of short stories, mostly about Micah Reed and Layne Parrish, but some other characters thrown in. I have read about half of these stories in other ways, but they were still a joy to read again. It's a wide range of stories, admittedly some are a little weird, but that's a good thing.
A very interesting collection, you're certain to find something to like, if not everything.
*Housekeeping: Advanced copy, voluntary honest review.
A very interesting collection, you're certain to find something to like, if not everything.
*Housekeeping: Advanced copy, voluntary honest review.
October 7, 2020
Two of my favorite characters in one book. Great collection of short stories.
October 7, 2020
Not as enjoyable as reading full stories, it’s over before you really get into it. Enjoyed some of the stories but some were a bit odd.
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