Book 'Em - An Eamonn Shute Mystery [Formato Kindle]

Book `Em is a good edit and proofing away from being an entertaining read. The protagonist, Eamon Shute, is one of those larger than life heroes who is entertaining and seems to figure in stories that keep you on the edge of your seat. McFadden's hero combines street smarts and the ability to defend himself, leftover from his upbringing as a poor Irish lad, with an innate intelligence and a sensitive, loyal side. Combine that with his financial situation, a windfall from the Irish lottery, and Shute is a package that should appeal to most women.

Shute's girlfriend Nicky is also an appealing character. A transplant to Miami, from the Dominican Republic in her case, Nicky is smart and independent. They make a great couple.

In contrast, the villains in this story are slime balls. There is never doubt as to who you're rooting for and who you aren't in Book `Em. Although I think it often feels like a thriller and the villains are mostly clear, there is still plenty of mystery, with the outcome in question to the end.

The majority of the problems are minor: things like "of" instead of "if," a missing or extra word. There were a few instances of verb tense errors or using a form of a word that doesn't exist according to the dictionaries I consulted (unorthodoxed). Last, using the idiom "once and awhile" instead of "once in a while" occurred multiple times. I'd have no qualms recommending Book `Em to anyone who likes mysteries or thrillers, if they have a reasonably high tolerance for typos. However, the sheer number, averaging at least once every five to six printed pages, is too many.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **

Even though Eamonn is a truly likable character he is a little too good to be true even tho he is from the hills of Donegal worth a small fortune due to a major win in the Euro Milions Lottery, the scrapes are a little to implausible for him to get out of but he with the help of his huge Samoan friend and a kindly cop who does not believe his girlfriend is guilty as accused he manages to outwit, outduel and outlast a Russian mafia mob or two he survives with his life. A goodread that entertains keeps you interesred. For a little entertaining light reading highly recommended

This straightforward plot works because of interesting characters and great dialogue. Shute an out of shape, lottery winning, Irish immigrant is in love with Nicky, a Latina bookshop owner. Freeing her from crimes wrongly accused of, becomes Eamonn's passion whatever the cost. I like these two characters very much as well as others such as the big Samoan associate, and the seemingly incompetent lawyer. I also much dislike the sleazy characters including Nicky's ex, who is a lazy slob who is tring to get something for nothing. The south Florida and Islands settings are brought to life so the reader can picture the action. I look forward to my next Tony McFadden story.