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Dark Side of Sunset Pointe
An investigative reporter, she’s tough and smart. A hardnosed homicide detective who won’t give up. A Trump-wannabe real estate developer – murdered. A freelance photographer who saw it all in his head.
Dark. Different. Inspired by true events.
Devastated by his wife’s death, the down and out crime scene photographer wakes plagued with visions – the double shooting of a commercial real estate developer and his mistress.
The hard-boiled homicide detective does his best to blow off the photographer’s “visions,” but dead bodies are piling up.
The photographer comes to realize his visions will either kill him or lead to the murderer. His only hope is the voice in his head, the voice of his dead wife.
Dark. Different. Inspired by true events.
Devastated by his wife’s death, the down and out crime scene photographer wakes plagued with visions – the double shooting of a commercial real estate developer and his mistress.
The hard-boiled homicide detective does his best to blow off the photographer’s “visions,” but dead bodies are piling up.
The photographer comes to realize his visions will either kill him or lead to the murderer. His only hope is the voice in his head, the voice of his dead wife.
378 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2012
220 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
About the author
Michael Allan Scott
20 books496 followersMichael Allan Scott, his wife, Cynthia, and their rescue Doberman, Roxie live with coyotes, bobcats, and javelina on their 'dove ranch' in the Arizona desert.
The Route 66 mystery series, as well as the Jena Halpern and Lance Underphal murder mystery/thriller series are available on Amazon.
For more on Michael Allan Scott, and his new breed of mystery/thriller series, go behind the scenes with an “Access Pass” available at Michael Allan Scott Author of Mystery Thriller Series.
You may also check out book trailers, NBC interviews, and other stuff on YouTube.
Please join him on BookBub, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and Goodreads.
The Route 66 mystery series, as well as the Jena Halpern and Lance Underphal murder mystery/thriller series are available on Amazon.
For more on Michael Allan Scott, and his new breed of mystery/thriller series, go behind the scenes with an “Access Pass” available at Michael Allan Scott Author of Mystery Thriller Series.
You may also check out book trailers, NBC interviews, and other stuff on YouTube.
Please join him on BookBub, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 30, 2015
"Book, you have the right to a speedy trial" review
THE DEFENSE
- Author makes some stylistic risks that pay off - Chapters being written in both first-and-third person points of view was a nice change of pace, as was the chapters not being told in chronological order.
- Conversations between Lance and his dead wife are mostly entertaining - The ghost of Lance's wife is a charming character... unfortunately, she's also the only interesting one, which brings us to...
THE PROSECUTION
- All the characters have the same personality (except Lance who has NO personality) - Everyone acts the same and talks the same...I imagine it's what watching "Keeping Up With The Kardashians"is like, but I can't be sure since I've never actually seen that show...or if I have, my brain refused to retain the memory of it for me! (Thank you, brain!)
- Some of the attempts at noir were laughably bad - Maybe it's just me, maybe hardcore noir fans would appreciate this more, but I caught myself snickering at lines like, "I sigh, dropping my gaze back to the basin, wondering if I could get small enough to follow the rest of my life down the drain"...if this book had been marketed as a parody of hard-boiled detective novels, I would have given it five stars for that line alone.
- Very repetative - If I had played a drinking game where I had to take a sip every time a character said the exact same phrase over and over, my liver would have jumped out of my body and tried to make a run for it before I even got to page 50. And not only dialogue is regurgitated, so are actions. The characters sleep around with each other so much, the book manages to make even sex boring!
- Subplots go nowhere - Since I was struggling to maintain any interest in even the main story, it shouldn't have come as a surprise that I didn't care about the subplots as well. But I'm still trying to figure out why so many chapters were devoted to the murder victim's business partner's drug fueled trips to Vegas and back (especially since he was taken off the table as a suspect in the very first chapter). There were other subplots as well, but they were so "memorable", I managed to forget them in the time it took me to write this sentence!
THE VERDICT
I applaud the author for utilizing an innovative narrative style. However, it ultimately doesn't matter how you tell the story if it wasn't worth telling in the first place. When the only character who has a little life in them is a woman who was dead for the entire book, you know you're in trouble. The biggest mystery of all is why I didn't just put this on the DNF shelf and read something else instead!
THE DEFENSE
- Author makes some stylistic risks that pay off - Chapters being written in both first-and-third person points of view was a nice change of pace, as was the chapters not being told in chronological order.
- Conversations between Lance and his dead wife are mostly entertaining - The ghost of Lance's wife is a charming character... unfortunately, she's also the only interesting one, which brings us to...
THE PROSECUTION
- All the characters have the same personality (except Lance who has NO personality) - Everyone acts the same and talks the same...I imagine it's what watching "Keeping Up With The Kardashians"is like, but I can't be sure since I've never actually seen that show...or if I have, my brain refused to retain the memory of it for me! (Thank you, brain!)
- Some of the attempts at noir were laughably bad - Maybe it's just me, maybe hardcore noir fans would appreciate this more, but I caught myself snickering at lines like, "I sigh, dropping my gaze back to the basin, wondering if I could get small enough to follow the rest of my life down the drain"...if this book had been marketed as a parody of hard-boiled detective novels, I would have given it five stars for that line alone.
- Very repetative - If I had played a drinking game where I had to take a sip every time a character said the exact same phrase over and over, my liver would have jumped out of my body and tried to make a run for it before I even got to page 50. And not only dialogue is regurgitated, so are actions. The characters sleep around with each other so much, the book manages to make even sex boring!
- Subplots go nowhere - Since I was struggling to maintain any interest in even the main story, it shouldn't have come as a surprise that I didn't care about the subplots as well. But I'm still trying to figure out why so many chapters were devoted to the murder victim's business partner's drug fueled trips to Vegas and back (especially since he was taken off the table as a suspect in the very first chapter). There were other subplots as well, but they were so "memorable", I managed to forget them in the time it took me to write this sentence!
THE VERDICT
I applaud the author for utilizing an innovative narrative style. However, it ultimately doesn't matter how you tell the story if it wasn't worth telling in the first place. When the only character who has a little life in them is a woman who was dead for the entire book, you know you're in trouble. The biggest mystery of all is why I didn't just put this on the DNF shelf and read something else instead!
January 18, 2018
Welcome to the dark side of life with Michael Allan Scott’s DARK SIDE OF SUNSET POINTE, a supernatural thriller that is both disturbing and intriguing at the same time. Be prepared for the unexpected as a freelance photographer, destroyed by his wife’s death makes a connection to the other side of the veil to actually “see” the crime occur. Is Lance Underphal losing his mind from the grief of losing his wife or are his visions real? Can he convince authorities to hear him out, to act on the clues he gives them?
When a wealthy developer is murdered and his secretary/plaything is left in a coma, Detective Frank Salmon calls in photographer Lance Underphal to record the scene. But Lance sees more than the story the pictures tell, as he pieces together the truth of the murders, a truth that goes much deeper than circumstances and evidence would show.
The stakes are high when money, murder and deceit come together in the underbelly of the business world where shady deals, manipulation and survival of the fittest are only a gunshot away.
Michael Allan Scott uses bold strokes to carve out this dark and gritty tale. The paranormal element is the defining characteristic that sets this suspense apart from the rest! Damaged heroes, loved ones from beyond, underhanded deals and infidelity are just part of what makes this tale so riveting.
If you are looking for something with that extra twist that keeps the tension running high, I believe Michael Allan Scott has nailed the recipe right here while still keeping the atmosphere of a hard-boiled mystery with shadowy players. I almost felt I was watching an old time black and white movie playing out in Mr. Scott's words!
I received a complimentary copy from Michael Allan Scott!
Series: Lance Underphal Mystery - Book 1
Publisher: Telemachus Press, LLC; 3 edition (November 26, 2013)
Publication Date: November 26, 2013
Genre: Dark Suspense | Thriller
Print Length: 378 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
When a wealthy developer is murdered and his secretary/plaything is left in a coma, Detective Frank Salmon calls in photographer Lance Underphal to record the scene. But Lance sees more than the story the pictures tell, as he pieces together the truth of the murders, a truth that goes much deeper than circumstances and evidence would show.
The stakes are high when money, murder and deceit come together in the underbelly of the business world where shady deals, manipulation and survival of the fittest are only a gunshot away.
Michael Allan Scott uses bold strokes to carve out this dark and gritty tale. The paranormal element is the defining characteristic that sets this suspense apart from the rest! Damaged heroes, loved ones from beyond, underhanded deals and infidelity are just part of what makes this tale so riveting.
If you are looking for something with that extra twist that keeps the tension running high, I believe Michael Allan Scott has nailed the recipe right here while still keeping the atmosphere of a hard-boiled mystery with shadowy players. I almost felt I was watching an old time black and white movie playing out in Mr. Scott's words!
I received a complimentary copy from Michael Allan Scott!
Series: Lance Underphal Mystery - Book 1
Publisher: Telemachus Press, LLC; 3 edition (November 26, 2013)
Publication Date: November 26, 2013
Genre: Dark Suspense | Thriller
Print Length: 378 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
April 23, 2021
I began reading this book a while ago. I didn't like it, put it aside. Then for some reason, picked it up again. And guess what loved it. Maybe Lance had something to do with it!
May 29, 2018
For some time I’ve been wanting to get to Scott’s Lance Underphal series. It was worth the wait! A splendidly spun story about an enigmatic photojournalist struggling with a new found purpose. What Scott does to amp the plot is genius—switching from the protagonist (Lance) to multiple other characters. By spinning such a well told story only makes me want to read more in the series. An excellent book that should be on your reading list!
April 30, 2018
I really didn't know much about Michael Allan Scott's "Dark Side of Sunset Pointe" until I dug in, because it had been referred to me by a fellow reader who knows I love mystery novels. But the author's novel goes beyond merely mystery (although there's a lot of that) and more into the dark side of the human mind.
The main character, Lance Underphal, is a photographer who practices his skill largely at crime scenes on a freelance basis. He's lucky he has one solid journalist who relies on him, because you'll see soon enough that Underphal is plagued with visual disturbances that might suggest mental illness at the very least. He can't sleep. Most of the time, because those disturbances limit his sleep, he's a mess: dirty, smelly, sometimes overly boozed up. Oh, and in or preceded by those visual disturbances, or psychic occurrences? His dead wife, the love of his life, intrudes in his thoughts and insists he continues to try and interpret what those very weird visions mean. Is it all a dead game? Or is it real?
Well, the homicide mystery that's pivotal to the story is very much real and none of the people involved in the murder of a greedy real estate developer are even remotely nice people, even if they pretend to be. It's a mess, and it all gets messier when Underphal begins talking with a tough homicide detective who moves from skepticism to being on board with Underphal once he understands that what Underphal is bringing him — information so often convoluted that no one could make sense of it, not even Underphal — actually proves valuable. It all gets worse when Underphal begins having visions that suggest further murders to come. There IS a vendetta afoot, to be sure.
I've heard others refer to Scott's novel as a "supernatural thriller." Maybe yes, maybe no. I see it as a great mystery with a twist, which is what drew me further and further into the story. It also doesn't hurt that Scott writes some very excellent prose, with metaphors and analogies that seem to flow effortlessly from his brain.
One Caveat: If you can't tolerate novels with profanity and violence, this book probably isn't for you, because "Dark Side of Sunset Pointe" most certainly is NOT a cozy. Now me? I look at everything in context and when the language or situations are appropriate to the nature of the story and in sync with how each character actually thinks and acts, I'm not bothered.
The main character, Lance Underphal, is a photographer who practices his skill largely at crime scenes on a freelance basis. He's lucky he has one solid journalist who relies on him, because you'll see soon enough that Underphal is plagued with visual disturbances that might suggest mental illness at the very least. He can't sleep. Most of the time, because those disturbances limit his sleep, he's a mess: dirty, smelly, sometimes overly boozed up. Oh, and in or preceded by those visual disturbances, or psychic occurrences? His dead wife, the love of his life, intrudes in his thoughts and insists he continues to try and interpret what those very weird visions mean. Is it all a dead game? Or is it real?
Well, the homicide mystery that's pivotal to the story is very much real and none of the people involved in the murder of a greedy real estate developer are even remotely nice people, even if they pretend to be. It's a mess, and it all gets messier when Underphal begins talking with a tough homicide detective who moves from skepticism to being on board with Underphal once he understands that what Underphal is bringing him — information so often convoluted that no one could make sense of it, not even Underphal — actually proves valuable. It all gets worse when Underphal begins having visions that suggest further murders to come. There IS a vendetta afoot, to be sure.
I've heard others refer to Scott's novel as a "supernatural thriller." Maybe yes, maybe no. I see it as a great mystery with a twist, which is what drew me further and further into the story. It also doesn't hurt that Scott writes some very excellent prose, with metaphors and analogies that seem to flow effortlessly from his brain.
One Caveat: If you can't tolerate novels with profanity and violence, this book probably isn't for you, because "Dark Side of Sunset Pointe" most certainly is NOT a cozy. Now me? I look at everything in context and when the language or situations are appropriate to the nature of the story and in sync with how each character actually thinks and acts, I'm not bothered.
October 30, 2019
I'd planned on reading this over the course of the week, but once I opened it, I couldn't put it down. I got lost in the realistic characters and the setting that, while super dark, was totally recognizable. No spoilers, but if you like thrillers and mysteries (and don't get offended easily) check this out. You won't regret it.
February 6, 2021
I enjoyed the book. It is dark and not for the young. It is interesting and different from my usual read. It kept me guessing. Dark Side of Sunset Point will keep you reading!
March 31, 2014
Dark Side of Sunset Pointe- A Lance Underphal Mystery by Michael Allan Scott is a 2012 Telemachus Press publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Mike Rodriquez and his partner have been working on a developmental deal named Sunset Pointe. Rodriquez is a big time wheeler dealer operating just on the border of legal and illegal practices. The problem is Sunset Pointe is in bad shape money wise. When Mike is found murdered and his secretary is shot and left in a coma, detective Frank Salmon takes the case.
Enter Lance Underphal who is called in to take photos of the crime scene. Lance's wife passed away recently and since then he has been troubled with health problems and visions. He is having certain paranormal encounters that isn't helping his mental state. However, he could prove quite useful in helping to solve the murder of Mike Rodriguez if only he can convince the skeptical Frank Salmon that his visions are real and correct.
The disclaimers of "This mystery is not for everyone" will peak your curiousity. Yes, it is different, but that's a good thing. At once very unique, but also gives one pause. Financial problems can cause people to do things they would never have dreamed of. When someone has a reputation to uphold things can become even more dicey. Mike's partner has a gambling problem, Mike has too many girlfriends and wife. The company they keep and the lifestyle they all live has the suspects piling up. A wife being cheated on, a secretary being cheated on, a pissed off husband, exotic dancers, all figure in and muddy the waters for detective Salmon.
This is certainly a different sort of mystery. The main difference is the paranormal element. This a dark mystery that combines the fast lane lifestyle with the underbelly of society. Lance is a guy that gets sucked into the melee kicking and screaming. He would rather not be in this position, but he has the guts to do the right thing. Hearing his wife's voice also gives him the courage to proceed although he doesn't necessarily welcome his new paranormal abilites. The plot takes several hard turns and weaves and winds all the way to the end. The author would like to call attention to the hardships of the economy and the effects of an over medicated society. This one is a wild and bumpy ride, but well worth it. This one gets an A.
Mike Rodriquez and his partner have been working on a developmental deal named Sunset Pointe. Rodriquez is a big time wheeler dealer operating just on the border of legal and illegal practices. The problem is Sunset Pointe is in bad shape money wise. When Mike is found murdered and his secretary is shot and left in a coma, detective Frank Salmon takes the case.
Enter Lance Underphal who is called in to take photos of the crime scene. Lance's wife passed away recently and since then he has been troubled with health problems and visions. He is having certain paranormal encounters that isn't helping his mental state. However, he could prove quite useful in helping to solve the murder of Mike Rodriguez if only he can convince the skeptical Frank Salmon that his visions are real and correct.
The disclaimers of "This mystery is not for everyone" will peak your curiousity. Yes, it is different, but that's a good thing. At once very unique, but also gives one pause. Financial problems can cause people to do things they would never have dreamed of. When someone has a reputation to uphold things can become even more dicey. Mike's partner has a gambling problem, Mike has too many girlfriends and wife. The company they keep and the lifestyle they all live has the suspects piling up. A wife being cheated on, a secretary being cheated on, a pissed off husband, exotic dancers, all figure in and muddy the waters for detective Salmon.
This is certainly a different sort of mystery. The main difference is the paranormal element. This a dark mystery that combines the fast lane lifestyle with the underbelly of society. Lance is a guy that gets sucked into the melee kicking and screaming. He would rather not be in this position, but he has the guts to do the right thing. Hearing his wife's voice also gives him the courage to proceed although he doesn't necessarily welcome his new paranormal abilites. The plot takes several hard turns and weaves and winds all the way to the end. The author would like to call attention to the hardships of the economy and the effects of an over medicated society. This one is a wild and bumpy ride, but well worth it. This one gets an A.
January 28, 2013
Scott's book starts out with a bang. Literally. He hooks you in right away so the book seems at first to be a normal 'who done it' kind of mystery. Keep reading.
He introduces many characters (all interesting with their own quirks) who were involved with the murdered man. And it gets better! There's this old guy (not your typical hero character) who takes crime scene photos, who also happens to have psychic powers having to do with the crimes he's photographing. This is the most interesting twist of all.
Not your typical mystery. Not your typical police procedural. Not traditionally paranormal (no vampires, thank god). But an intriguing combo of all three. I'm not sure exactly how he did it, but he does it amazingly well.
Scott had me up late reading (which is rare!) to find out who did the dastardly deed. I found this one of the few books I've read recently that kept my interest to the very end. He also sets it up nicely for the next book in the series. I definitely think he's got a winner here!
Rachel Thompson, author (A Walk In The Snark, Mancode: Exposed, Broken Pieces)
He introduces many characters (all interesting with their own quirks) who were involved with the murdered man. And it gets better! There's this old guy (not your typical hero character) who takes crime scene photos, who also happens to have psychic powers having to do with the crimes he's photographing. This is the most interesting twist of all.
Not your typical mystery. Not your typical police procedural. Not traditionally paranormal (no vampires, thank god). But an intriguing combo of all three. I'm not sure exactly how he did it, but he does it amazingly well.
Scott had me up late reading (which is rare!) to find out who did the dastardly deed. I found this one of the few books I've read recently that kept my interest to the very end. He also sets it up nicely for the next book in the series. I definitely think he's got a winner here!
Rachel Thompson, author (A Walk In The Snark, Mancode: Exposed, Broken Pieces)
June 7, 2019
8/21/2009, Phoenix, AZ. MJR construction trailer had pulled in & the construction crew was about to start on their next major project Sunset Pointe ($30 million).
The groundbreaking ceremony was underway.
Michael “Mike” J. Rodriguez (MJR partner), & Gary Whiting (business partner) were shaking hands.
Others in attendance are: Constance “Connie” Rodriguez (Mike’s wife), Martin Fellman (1st Community Bank loan officer), Diane Telafano (Mike’s mistress), Lenny Kantor (Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club owner), Sondra Du (Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club top showgirl, bi-sexual), Hammond Elder (Mike’s attorney), Fredrick Marsh (Sunset Pointe’s attorney), Jenny (Gary’s asst.), Christopher Lee, Teresa Milner (Fredrick’s legal asst), the Swit/Conner team, & Johnny Chavez (Mike’s cousin, contractor).
8/24/2010, Whiting Realty & Development Suite #101 (Greenway/Tatum). Gary calls Mike about a business matter but he’s too busy humping Diane Telafano (Johnny’s wife, bookkeeper).
BANG; BANG; BANG!
Gary called 911.
Lacey (Valley Free Press editor) called Lance Underphal (husband, freelance photographer) & told him to head for the crime scene ASAP.
MJR Development Construction co. (Deer Valley). Detective Frank Salmon was already there.
8/25/2010, Gary wakes up to the reality all his/Mike’s hopes & dreams have gone down the toilet.
Phoenix General Hospital ER/ICU. Diane is still in a coma.
8/26/2010, Detective Frank Salmon (Phoenix PD Homicide, VCB) interrogated Gary.
Detective Salmon interviewed Connie, Lenny, & Diane (paralyzed waist down).
Daniel Rupert (Martial Arts Center co-owner), & Jilly (aka Janice Parkson, Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club stripper) were gunned down in his corvette.
2/21/2011, Detective Salmon, & Lacey arrived at the crime scene.
Camelback Tower. Why did Benjamin Cohen (loan shark), Charlie Stein, & Noel Redman go see Hammond?
Chuck Wagon bar/grille. Michael Rodriguez (father), finally got to meet Benjamin Cohen (Cohen & Co.). Michael was telling him about a newest venture on 40th St./Union Hills.
# 33 Terra Bella Apartments. Sergeant Gabriel McRay (LA Sheriff), Detective Dash, & Lieutenant/Detective Ramirez went to see Bill Spangler (Pepperdine U). The place was on fire.
Will the Malibu Canyon murderer get caught & brought to justice?
Grey Goose/Red Bull used to be my favorite.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; Telemachus Press, LLC.; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
The groundbreaking ceremony was underway.
Michael “Mike” J. Rodriguez (MJR partner), & Gary Whiting (business partner) were shaking hands.
Others in attendance are: Constance “Connie” Rodriguez (Mike’s wife), Martin Fellman (1st Community Bank loan officer), Diane Telafano (Mike’s mistress), Lenny Kantor (Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club owner), Sondra Du (Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club top showgirl, bi-sexual), Hammond Elder (Mike’s attorney), Fredrick Marsh (Sunset Pointe’s attorney), Jenny (Gary’s asst.), Christopher Lee, Teresa Milner (Fredrick’s legal asst), the Swit/Conner team, & Johnny Chavez (Mike’s cousin, contractor).
8/24/2010, Whiting Realty & Development Suite #101 (Greenway/Tatum). Gary calls Mike about a business matter but he’s too busy humping Diane Telafano (Johnny’s wife, bookkeeper).
BANG; BANG; BANG!
Gary called 911.
Lacey (Valley Free Press editor) called Lance Underphal (husband, freelance photographer) & told him to head for the crime scene ASAP.
MJR Development Construction co. (Deer Valley). Detective Frank Salmon was already there.
8/25/2010, Gary wakes up to the reality all his/Mike’s hopes & dreams have gone down the toilet.
Phoenix General Hospital ER/ICU. Diane is still in a coma.
8/26/2010, Detective Frank Salmon (Phoenix PD Homicide, VCB) interrogated Gary.
Detective Salmon interviewed Connie, Lenny, & Diane (paralyzed waist down).
Daniel Rupert (Martial Arts Center co-owner), & Jilly (aka Janice Parkson, Lion’s Den Gentlemen’s Club stripper) were gunned down in his corvette.
2/21/2011, Detective Salmon, & Lacey arrived at the crime scene.
Camelback Tower. Why did Benjamin Cohen (loan shark), Charlie Stein, & Noel Redman go see Hammond?
Chuck Wagon bar/grille. Michael Rodriguez (father), finally got to meet Benjamin Cohen (Cohen & Co.). Michael was telling him about a newest venture on 40th St./Union Hills.
# 33 Terra Bella Apartments. Sergeant Gabriel McRay (LA Sheriff), Detective Dash, & Lieutenant/Detective Ramirez went to see Bill Spangler (Pepperdine U). The place was on fire.
Will the Malibu Canyon murderer get caught & brought to justice?
Grey Goose/Red Bull used to be my favorite.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written crime thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; Telemachus Press, LLC.; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 4, 2018
Amazon refers to Underphal, our mystery pursuing photographer as "a damaged psychic." Talk about your understatement! All of us who read mysteries are used to damaged detectives. They drink too much. The are estranged from the people they love. Underphal puts all of them to shame. I don't know that there actually is anyone in Underphal's life from whom he might be estranged. He is way beyond drinking too much. He is so f___ed up (and the implied profanity is the only word that works) that he has no clean clothes to wear. Hell, he doesn't even have "worn a few times" clothes to wear. He doesn't seem to have taken out the garbage (and I do mean garbage, not trash) in maybe weeks. Basically, he is one sorry-ass mess. This is not a sympathetic character. And yet. It's the visions that have done this to him; he isn't essentially a degenerate. And he is, somehow, an amazing photographer, so that he is called out to crime scenes to do what he does so well. But visiting crime scenes is not so good for him, because they can bring on the visions.
Kirkus referred to the world created by Scott a s "seemingly depraved and dark." Oh, yes. That it is! I must admit that I could have lived without the vivid/lurid descriptions of strippers' talents and skills. The violence is also over the top. All of that said, I kept reading, didn't I? Perhaps if I try another one, I'll figure out why.
Kirkus referred to the world created by Scott a s "seemingly depraved and dark." Oh, yes. That it is! I must admit that I could have lived without the vivid/lurid descriptions of strippers' talents and skills. The violence is also over the top. All of that said, I kept reading, didn't I? Perhaps if I try another one, I'll figure out why.
June 19, 2021
Lance Underphal, a semi-retired drunk who has conversations with his late wife, is called upon to take photographs of a gruesome crime scene. As a result of photographing this scene, Lance is drawn into an horrific situation wherein he can 'see' murders, which are all connected to the first one. He reports his visions to the police, but receives disbelief in return. What to do now?
Lance has his late wife to guide him and keep him sane throughout his experiences, but will he retain his sanity or will his experiences combined with booze put him over the edge?
Great story and riveting read. First book I have read by Michael Allan Scott, but it will not be the last.
Lance has his late wife to guide him and keep him sane throughout his experiences, but will he retain his sanity or will his experiences combined with booze put him over the edge?
Great story and riveting read. First book I have read by Michael Allan Scott, but it will not be the last.
August 2, 2021
First the warning, if you dont like reading the dark, gritty underside of life this isnt the book for you. I found it raw and stark. Reminiscent of old detective movies of the 50s. The bloody shoot out, the wild women, rough men. Booze, drugs and alcohol. Its all of this.
It was a long read but I really enjoyed the pace and the storyline was well planned. Lance Underphal is a crime scene photographer who recently lost the love of his life, his beautiful wife. Thing is she hasnt left him, she visits him all the time. Lance has fallen to despair and doesnt know if she is real or brought on by drugs and alcohol. But she tells him he has a purpose.
It was a long read but I really enjoyed the pace and the storyline was well planned. Lance Underphal is a crime scene photographer who recently lost the love of his life, his beautiful wife. Thing is she hasnt left him, she visits him all the time. Lance has fallen to despair and doesnt know if she is real or brought on by drugs and alcohol. But she tells him he has a purpose.
October 24, 2018
I was very impressed with this book. It was a wonderful read. I love the paranormal part of this book. It was just the right amount to be believable. The author has a great imagination. The characters are unforgettable too. I am now looking into more works from this author.
January 18, 2018
Very intense. Actually too intense for me, but OMG what a wild adrenaline packed rush! Highly recommended for those with the grit to read it!
March 14, 2019
If you have read any of the reviews on this story, then you are amply forearmed with the knowledge that the violence and language may not be for every reader – no point in going on about a fraction of the book’s appeal for me! I do like my mysteries violent and Scott does not disappoint. What drew me to the series, however, was the quirkiness of a supernaturally afflicted degenerate of an antihero. You cannot sympathize with Underphal, nor should you want to. Go along for the ride and immerse yourself in a breath of foul air that will challenge your expectations and, despite all warnings, defy you to put the book down and walk away. You cannot. You have to stare at the wreck till the last bloody twist…there is no turning away from this plot. Well wrought, well fraught, well brought to a conclusion that is open for yet another addictive episode of Underphalian snapshots. Loved the shift from first to third person, from perspective to pseudo objective! Will definitely be reading more…with morbid curiosity.
July 25, 2021
I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book, however once I got into it, I wanted to finish. An unlikely hero, if you can call a pudgy, drunk slob a hero. A man who has lost the love of his life, fell on hard times, but still keeps going. The paranormal aspect of this book is believable. The Who fun it is easy to figure out, but the why and how is the reason to finish. I’m looking forward to the next book.
November 1, 2017
Dark Side Of Sunset Pointe is a murder mystery sprinkled with some paranormal bits and topped with a real character—a delight.
Lance Underphal, a widower, decided there’s nothing left for him to do apart from being a talented, lazy photographer without an ambition. His life seemed like it had stopped, nothing and no one motivating him to go further, except his dead wife. Until one day when Mike Rodriguez is found dead along with his bookkeeper. Lance rushes to the crime scene as a mere news photographer but he actually moves toward a new perspective, a new communication method and in fact, a new world.
The best thing about the story is how it jumps straight into action. There isn’t anything being dragged for the sake of the word count or as an excuse of scene-setting. Everything that the reader needs to know is clearly delivered and the reaction to that particular action follows later on. The major plot points are hit in a well-planned manner, not leaving any space for loopholes to rise.
There’s a long list of characters, building up more and more suspense. At some point, the reader thinks they’ve got it all figured out but the author, very swiftly, erases the doubt in the next scene itself. And you’re left thinking: WTF, then who is it?
However, except for two characters, Lance and Salmon, none of them have been developed much. Even the culprit isn’t developed enough which is why the revelation doesn’t shock much. Sure, there’s a head nod by me—an approval of a good mystery plotted by the author—but nothing that would leave me open-mouthed, staring at the screen hard and thinking how it could end up this way.
The writing is easy to read, it flows well and resonates with the mood a particular scene demand. Whether it’s the use of exclamation marks, an exclamation mark along with question marks (a pet peeve of mine) or capitalized letters, all are used well by the author and works to bring the story alive by enhancing the tone.
There are phrases that characters repeat, thoughts that come to their mind again and again, and things they do repeatedly. The ‘Big Mike’s’ widow, Connie Rodriguez, kept thinking about God, Big Mike’s business partner, Whiting, kept thinking about money and Vegas, while the pole stripper kept swaying her hips or smiled seductively. Basically, everyone was distinct enough.
The story is written majorly in a Third Person omniscient, all the characters and their ideas being delivered to the readers—even the killer’s at some point. Lance’s narrative is in First Person which seemed to fit perfectly with his persona since most of his conversing happened in his own brain. It’s a shame I’m not a big fan of switching POVs but anything is fun to read if done well. And Michael Allen Scott has done it too well.
If you’re looking to read a genre-bender that’ll take you to another world through the mind of a relatable man, focused mainly on the major plot and an ending that’ll make reading the book a worth, then this book is for you.
DISCLAIMER
I received a free copy of this book through a discount deal as a subscriber to the author's newsletter. However, this does not influence my review in any way.
November 1, 2017
This was my first foray into books by the author - It took me a while to get used to the jumps back and forth in time in each chapter, and the different writing styles - 1st person for the main character, Lance Underphal, and 3rd person for everyone else - but once I had sussed this out I thoroughly enjoyed this dark murder detective story.
Mr Scott presents Lance as a damaged character with psychic powers- broken by the death of his wife Sonja, who still talks to him and helps him understand and travel in the other supernatural world he inhabits, where he can speak to the dead and "see" crime scenes - a world that seems to suck more life from him each time he is thrust in there. At times I was worried he wasn't going to make it to the end of the book! His power and visions are initially rejected by Detective Salmon who is in charge of the murder investigation but as the story unfolds, a grudging respect emerges.
Mr Scott's very descriptive style of writing, and his ability to jump from the real world to the supernatural with ease, drew me in and through the story and it was easy to "see" the characters and scenarios. Although I was quite unsympathetic to some of the victims due to the way Mr Scott portrayed them, I was keen to see who was responsible for their demise - none of my guesses were correct!
This is a great read, and I am looking forward to meeting Lance again in future novels.
Mr Scott presents Lance as a damaged character with psychic powers- broken by the death of his wife Sonja, who still talks to him and helps him understand and travel in the other supernatural world he inhabits, where he can speak to the dead and "see" crime scenes - a world that seems to suck more life from him each time he is thrust in there. At times I was worried he wasn't going to make it to the end of the book! His power and visions are initially rejected by Detective Salmon who is in charge of the murder investigation but as the story unfolds, a grudging respect emerges.
Mr Scott's very descriptive style of writing, and his ability to jump from the real world to the supernatural with ease, drew me in and through the story and it was easy to "see" the characters and scenarios. Although I was quite unsympathetic to some of the victims due to the way Mr Scott portrayed them, I was keen to see who was responsible for their demise - none of my guesses were correct!
This is a great read, and I am looking forward to meeting Lance again in future novels.
July 22, 2021
Excellent Read
At first, I wasn’t too sure I would continue reading this book. I don’t care for books that go back and forth from present to past. However, I found myself continuing with the book. Definitely going to read the next book.
At first, I wasn’t too sure I would continue reading this book. I don’t care for books that go back and forth from present to past. However, I found myself continuing with the book. Definitely going to read the next book.
August 10, 2021
Lance Underphal is a need photographer who is called to take pictures of a murder victim. He gets sick and throws up at the scene. This does not make it easy for him to get along with the detective. Between not sleeping an having conversion his dead wife he seems a bit case to the detective. But he keeps seeing visions an is starting to make some important ideas about what is to happen before it does. A must read to see if he is able to help the police catch the killer.
October 3, 2019
I just finished this one. An interesting read with lots of twists and even a psychic in the mix. Haha
August 25, 2021
In most books, if a character has visions they are clear and understandable. Not in this book!
Lance has only just started getting visions but they're vague and misleading and painful and usually too late. Add to that the general scepticism displayed by the detective.
** I don't really like books that mix up the timelines but this book worked.
Lance has only just started getting visions but they're vague and misleading and painful and usually too late. Add to that the general scepticism displayed by the detective.
** I don't really like books that mix up the timelines but this book worked.
August 7, 2021
Wow, this story was great--held my attention and then some!! Well-written thriller, for sure; I highly recommend it!!!
January 28, 2023
Very good read. Complicated, intertwined plot. Larger than life characters, but developed well and mostly believable. Thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend to mystery aficionados.
January 1, 2013
The book starts of with action (which I love). At the beginning the murder takes place and things completely spiral out of control. There are so many suspects it’s hard to pinpoint the actual killer I was completely confused. The author does a terrific job at painting the picture so vividly that there were no details that were left out. I felt like I could visually walk through this story. I connected with the character Lance and felt his frustration as he struggles with his psychic ability and the fact that he might just be crazy. It was bad enough to deal with the lose of his love one but to hear her, converse with her knowing she was dead is a whole other thing.
“The real tragedy is that you’re still here left behind to face what’s left of you life without them. Times like these, I long for the promise of peace that death offers”.
While Lance is coping with the issues he is having about his wife, he also has to deal with the spirits of the victims past, present and future. All the emotions bouncing from one place to the other, it was hard not to get drawn to this character.
The author begins to introduce other key players and you begin to feel compelled to be attached to them as well. Everyone had a story that painted him or her as the real victims and it was hard to tell if they were faking it or if it was real. During the story you also get a glimpse into the past of the victim in the first murder so that you could connect to his character and understand the decisions that were made that lead up to his demise. Everyone had an angle even the victims.
As the story begins to come to a close I am at the edge of my bed because I thought I figured it out, I just knew whom the killer was… nope I did not know. Surprisingly my mouth dropped wide open when the killer exposed him or herself (sorry don’t want to give it away for you). The motive is clear and it puts everything into perspective. As I think about it as I am typing the review I can recall the hints the author was leaving behind but could not put them together until the end.
My Rating and Recommendation:
I gave this book 4 Purple Rant Hearts. I really enjoyed this book. This was the first mystery I have read in over a 1-½ year and it was a good one. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good mystery. I look forward to reading another Lance Underphal upcoming mystery in 2013.
Reviewed by:
crystalsrandomthoughts.com
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the author. This is my honest opinion about this book and I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review.
“The real tragedy is that you’re still here left behind to face what’s left of you life without them. Times like these, I long for the promise of peace that death offers”.
While Lance is coping with the issues he is having about his wife, he also has to deal with the spirits of the victims past, present and future. All the emotions bouncing from one place to the other, it was hard not to get drawn to this character.
The author begins to introduce other key players and you begin to feel compelled to be attached to them as well. Everyone had a story that painted him or her as the real victims and it was hard to tell if they were faking it or if it was real. During the story you also get a glimpse into the past of the victim in the first murder so that you could connect to his character and understand the decisions that were made that lead up to his demise. Everyone had an angle even the victims.
As the story begins to come to a close I am at the edge of my bed because I thought I figured it out, I just knew whom the killer was… nope I did not know. Surprisingly my mouth dropped wide open when the killer exposed him or herself (sorry don’t want to give it away for you). The motive is clear and it puts everything into perspective. As I think about it as I am typing the review I can recall the hints the author was leaving behind but could not put them together until the end.
My Rating and Recommendation:
I gave this book 4 Purple Rant Hearts. I really enjoyed this book. This was the first mystery I have read in over a 1-½ year and it was a good one. I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good mystery. I look forward to reading another Lance Underphal upcoming mystery in 2013.
Reviewed by:
crystalsrandomthoughts.com
FTC Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the author. This is my honest opinion about this book and I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review.
October 24, 2017
I enjoyed reading this novel by Michael Allan Scott. As a sideline, it concerns the economic turndown that wiped out a lot of home buyers and developers, and immoral developers who get in over their heads. There’s also a lot of murder mystery involved, combined with paranormal abilities. If you enjoy these themes, then you will enjoy this book. I don’t want to get into spoilers, so that’s the most I will say about the plot. Suffice to say that the characters are well rounded and believable. The author does include a warning that he pulls no punches, so if you are put off by descriptions of sex and violence, don’t read his book. If you aren’t afraid, please do read it, you won’t be sorry.
January 8, 2013
Mike Rodriquez or ‘Big Mike’ as he’s known lives a fast paced life of excess. Sunset Pointe is a developmental deal that he & his partner, Gary Whiting, have been working on. Unfortunately, Sunset Pointe is also hemorrhaging money. Living life the way Mike does brings a lot of money, but it also brings a lot of enemies. When Mike is shot to death while entertaining his bookkeeper after hours, it comes as no surprise to anyone. Detective Frank Salmon is on the case & so finds there are enough suspects to make your head spin.
For starters, there’s Mike’s wife, Connie, who knows all about Mike’s womanizing. Gary, the business partner, and of course, the unsavory money lenders such as Benjamin Cohen, who had insurance on Mike make the list, too. Add some conniving strippers & their muscle and things get dicey.
Called in to take crime scene photos is Lance Underphal. Unhealthy and sloppy, Lance is a freelance photographer who just happens to hear from his dead lover, Sonja, frequently. Directing him through the maze of Mike’s murder, Sonja tries to help Lance put all the pieces together. With all the chaos, who killed Big Mike? Everyone looks guilty & everyone has motive. Can Lance figure it all out with a little help from the other side?
Michael Allan Scott deserves applause for keeping this cast of characters flowing as smoothly as it does. Although it is a lengthy bunch of people, each has a part to play that is great for the story. Usually anything paranormal is a turnoff for me, but I have to say, I got into this novel & truly enjoyed it.
By the time I got to the end, I wasn’t sure whether or not to feel bad for Mike being murdered or for the murderer themselves. That makes a great story! I would love to hear more from Michael Allan Scott & his unlikely hero, Lance. 5 of 5 stars for a great read!
More information can be found via the publisher www.telemachuspress.com & the author’s website, www.michaelallanscott.com. I received 1 eBook to write the review with no further compensation. All opinions are mine.
November 11, 2021
I appreciate both a good mystery and supernatural thriller. This book provides both. Supernatural aspect does not go so far as to make you say this is ridiculous. It's important for me to get lost in a story and this book does that.
I'm looking forward to more from this author
I'm looking forward to more from this author
December 30, 2017
I don’t read much crime fiction, so this is a bit outside my usual genre, but I did enjoy it. The story is fast-paced, the characters are believable and the psychic twist added a whole other dimension. Going to try the next one now...
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