Review of Fortune Cookie

Rahul Singh 29 · Post by **Rahul Singh 29** » 17 May 2024, 23:14

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Fortune Cookie" by John R. Johnson.]

5 out of 5 stars

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"Fortune Cookie" by James Johnson is a gripping suspense thriller that intertwines corporate intrigue with personal drama. The story begins with Valerie, a dedicated homicide detective, grappling with the emotional aftermath of her husband leaving her. Her life takes a complex turn when she dives into a case involving the murder of Harry Ma, a man connected to high-stakes industrial espionage.

Valerie's investigation leads her to the complex world of Brandon Steele’s company, which is facing significant financial troubles due to a lawsuit stemming from a fatal incident involving an employee in Iraq. Steele is depicted as a manipulative and potentially dangerous figure whose actions are central to the unfolding mystery. Valerie, along with her partner Tyler, uncovers layers of deceit, betrayal, and corporate malfeasance as they delve deeper into the case.

A key subplot involves Charlie Wang, a talented engineer who was fired under suspicious circumstances after being accused of leaking proprietary designs to a competitor. The dismissal of Wang is questioned by Doris, a concerned and loyal employee who provides crucial information about irregularities within the company. Her discovery of these irregularities and her subsequent fear add a psychological layer to the narrative.

What I like about the book is the core of the mystery, which revolves around who actually stole the CAD drawings and who is behind Harry Ma’s murder. As Valerie and Tyler piece together the puzzle, they face numerous dangers and moral dilemmas, heightening the suspense. The plot weaves through tense corporate boardrooms, intimate personal moments, and high-stakes confrontations, culminating in a thrilling resolution. Valerie's personal growth and professional tenacity drive the narrative, making "Fortune Cookie" a compelling read that explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

I dislike nothing about the book; it's exceptionally well edited. I will rate this book 5 out of 5 stars for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and relentless suspense that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

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Fortune Cookie
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Sandre Lamar · Post by **Sandre Lamar** » 21 May 2024, 20:51

The world-building in this novel was incredibly immersive. Highly recommended.

Charmaine Mahlangu · Post by **Charmaine Mahlangu** » 21 May 2024, 21:02

I love how these different characters are driving the entire book. I love mysteries and thriller simply because there are no cliches in them. It is seldom a happy ending or a new beginning sometimes it turns out to be a cold case too. Well done on this creative review

Post by **Tomy Chandrafrost** » 26 May 2024, 00:54

The premise of this book looks interesting, considering the themes it addresses about personal drama, trust, and some other interesting thrilling issues. Reading your review makes me even more eager to read this book. Thank you for writing this. What a great review.

NetMassimo · Post by **NetMassimo** » 03 Jun 2024, 14:49

This novel has many merits with a complex plot that might remind us of real cases of corporate intrigue and also some personal drama with individuals involved in various ways in a story far bigger than all of them. Thank you for your great review!

Ozioma Isaiah · Post by **Ozioma Isaiah** » 04 Jun 2024, 17:31

"Fortune Cookie" by James Johnson is a riveting blend of suspense and personal turmoil, as Detective Valerie navigates a web of corporate deceit and personal upheaval. Johnson expertly weaves together intricate plotlines, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn in this gripping thriller.

Post by **MAHAD BAIG MIRZA** » 11 Jun 2024, 06:10

Your review of "Fortune Cookie" by James Johnson eloquently captures the essence of the suspenseful thriller, highlighting its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and relentless suspense. You effectively convey the complexities of the narrative, weaving together elements of corporate intrigue and personal drama. Your appreciation of the core mystery and the growth of protagonist Valerie adds depth to your analysis, while your assertion of the book's flawless editing and consequent perfect rating of 5 out of 5 stars solidifies its recommendation to readers seeking a captivating and well-executed thriller.

Jenna Padayachee · Post by **Jenna Padayachee** » 24 Jun 2024, 00:10

A great review. Thank you.
"Fortune Cookie" sounds rather compelling indeed.
My interest is intensely piqued by the psychological layer added to the narrative arising from Doris and her concerns about Wang's dismissal.

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 27 Sep 2024, 09:50

Thank you for the very informative review, the plot seems very intriguing. It’s a good racy thriller which is easy to get into, with well laid out paragraphs and chapters.

Brienna Cooper · Post by **Brienna Cooper** » 27 Sep 2024, 09:55

Great review! I’m always down for a tale of mystery and suspense. I’ve seen (and thoroughly enjoyed) my fair share of those starring female detectives, but this one has a particularly intriguing angle. I’d be very interested in seeing how the context of Valerie’s personal life affects her approach to the case.

Post by **Suvankar Das 1** » 27 Sep 2024, 10:13

Fortune Cookie sounds like an intense and gripping read! I love a good detective story, especially when the main character has to fight against personal and professional challenges. Valerie's journey through trust, betrayal, and truth sounds like something that will keep me turning the pages.

María Andrea Fernández Sepúlveda · 27 Sep 2024, 10:14

I love a good mystery, a great female lead, and, especially, fantastic character development. Thank you for your review!

Post by **Magdalyne chebet** » 27 Sep 2024, 10:15

"Fortune Cookie" by James Johnson sounds like a gripping blend of suspense and corporate intrigue. With its strong mystery, complex characters, and high-stakes tension, the story promises to be a compelling and engaging read, especially with its themes of trust, betrayal, and personal growth. Adding it to my must read books. Congrats on being BOTD!

Post by **Bertha Jackson** » 27 Sep 2024, 10:21

Psychological corporate crime thrillers are one of my favorite genres. I am curious how Harry Ma's murder fits into the rest of the plot. Thank you for your informative review.

Leen282 · Post by **Leen282** » 27 Sep 2024, 10:29

A very descriptive review captivating my interest: suspense, plot, personal drama, corporate intrigue, mystery. The perfect book to relax and get into the storyline of Valerie and Tyler digging deep to find the truth.