Funny as it may seem, the cover artist sold me on the Dublin trilogy before I even knew what it was about. I had to put new flooring in the kid's rooms at the house and books are preferable to music as they don't have ad breaks to skip or an algorithm that tries to make sense of my odd taste in music. So, in this instance, I absolutely judged the book by its cover. I'm glad I did as I had finally found another author that could balance crime and humor while also managing to tell an engaging story. My taste in books is all over the map. I love sci-fi, crime, police procedurals, thrillers, horror, fantasy, as well as nonfiction stuff. If it's well written and I enjoy the narrator then I'm sold. Series fiction holds a special place in my heart. There's something to be said for the crafting of characters that I want to revisit repeatedly. When it's done right, it's like popping in to see an old friend. Caimh has created numerous such characters and I hope he continues to write about them for years to come. The only author I hold in higher regard than Caimh is Donald E. Westlake. His work with Parker, Grofield, and Dortmunder will always be my favorite. That said, Donald passed away years ago. I was heartbroken that these wonderful characters would never go on another adventure. The man had a gift for banter and handled caper novels like no one before or after ever would. Just when I had given up hope, the Dublin trilogy (and a prequel book) came to my attention. The story was so engaging! I was immediately hooked. My DIY project took less time than I needed and I found myself sitting on the fresh flooring just listening away. I had never heard Morgan C. Jones, but he quickly became a name to remember. Since that time, every release has held the same balance of heart and humor. I never miss these or the Stranger Times books. You'll laugh out loud and cling to the edge of your seat wondering how the plot will unfold. Now that I've rambled on long enough, let's get to THIS book.
The book will hold up on it's own, but it's a richer story if you read Last Orders and the Meanwhile in Dublin short for background. Realistically, just read them all. Nothing is worth skipping. I mean read EVERYTHING because these little tidbits from other books help the world building as well as getting you emotionally invested in the characters. I assume most of us have done that already and love the fact that it's a Phil and Paul team up story. I don't want to spoil anything, but the story unfolds quickly as well as unpredictably. Morgan does a great job like usual. Of special note, I feel like he's found a way to age Jimmy as we've gone along. I've already listened to it twice so I feel like I've caught all the fine details. I love the MCM crew and any time spent with them is always a treat.
In short, buy this and every other book on offer. I can't recommend them highly enough. Also, buy from the White Haired Irishman web store instead of Audible. You get releases quicker and support the author directly. Caimh doesn't seem to ever stop writing. We get multiple releases a year. For someone who can't get them fast enough, give him the support he so richly deserves.
10/10 overall rating
