Review of The Decoys
Posted: 23 Jul 2022, 09:19
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Decoys" by Jeffrey Mechling.]
The Decoys lives up to its title with all the elements of deception that you would expect from a crime thriller. Although this is the third book in this mystery series, I had no problems reading this as my first one as it works fine as a separate novel.
An attractive cover shows the Golden Gate Bridge in the background because the story mainly takes place in San Francisco. Tim and Mary Ann Hall, a married couple, are sent from their home base in DC to investigate a situation in San Francisco.
Although both members of this couple work for the government, they are employed by opposing
departments. The feuding between the FBI and the CIA is mirrored by the bickering between the husband and wife. The conflict adds to the complexity of the relationship and creates opportunities for make-up sex.
The large cast of characters is introduced by Jeffrey Mechling gradually, so keeping everyone sorted out was easy. Each individual was given a unique description and personality. Even though there were many unexpected occurrences, they did not feel out of character when they were revealed.
Because my only knowledge of crime solving comes from watching television, I have no way to judge if the situations in this book are accurately portrayed. At times it did seem as though some of the events happened too coincidentally. Other times it appeared that the investigators overlooked some evidence that was pretty obvious.
My favorite minor character was Darrell, the hired bodyguard. I can think of several actors who would steal the show if they were cast in this role in a film version. His sarcastic comments were honest and humorous.
Mechling’s writing style is entertaining but not overly descriptive. The setting of San Francisco is accurately portrayed as the detectives go about solving crimes. The numerous death scenes are realistic but not too cringe-worthy. The amorous activities between the husband and wife are detailed but not erotic. The dialogue contains the amount of profanity expected from the characters. It is a quick, easy read.
There is no reason to deduct any stars from The Decoys. There were a few grammar errors, but they were not the least bit distracting. My rating is 4 out of 4 stars. Readers who are looking for intense drama and action might be disappointed. Readers who are looking for a more relaxed experience will find this novel satisfying. Having the opportunity to ride along with this duo on other assignments in other books in the series is an added bonus.
******
The Decoys
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
The Decoys lives up to its title with all the elements of deception that you would expect from a crime thriller. Although this is the third book in this mystery series, I had no problems reading this as my first one as it works fine as a separate novel.
An attractive cover shows the Golden Gate Bridge in the background because the story mainly takes place in San Francisco. Tim and Mary Ann Hall, a married couple, are sent from their home base in DC to investigate a situation in San Francisco.
Although both members of this couple work for the government, they are employed by opposing
departments. The feuding between the FBI and the CIA is mirrored by the bickering between the husband and wife. The conflict adds to the complexity of the relationship and creates opportunities for make-up sex.
The large cast of characters is introduced by Jeffrey Mechling gradually, so keeping everyone sorted out was easy. Each individual was given a unique description and personality. Even though there were many unexpected occurrences, they did not feel out of character when they were revealed.
Because my only knowledge of crime solving comes from watching television, I have no way to judge if the situations in this book are accurately portrayed. At times it did seem as though some of the events happened too coincidentally. Other times it appeared that the investigators overlooked some evidence that was pretty obvious.
My favorite minor character was Darrell, the hired bodyguard. I can think of several actors who would steal the show if they were cast in this role in a film version. His sarcastic comments were honest and humorous.
Mechling’s writing style is entertaining but not overly descriptive. The setting of San Francisco is accurately portrayed as the detectives go about solving crimes. The numerous death scenes are realistic but not too cringe-worthy. The amorous activities between the husband and wife are detailed but not erotic. The dialogue contains the amount of profanity expected from the characters. It is a quick, easy read.
There is no reason to deduct any stars from The Decoys. There were a few grammar errors, but they were not the least bit distracting. My rating is 4 out of 4 stars. Readers who are looking for intense drama and action might be disappointed. Readers who are looking for a more relaxed experience will find this novel satisfying. Having the opportunity to ride along with this duo on other assignments in other books in the series is an added bonus.
******
The Decoys
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon