Reed Farrel Coleman - The James Deans (2005)
Reviewed by David J. Montgomery
Reed Farrel Coleman’s detective Moe Prager, making his third appearance in The James Deans, is not the usual, clichéd private eye. He’s not a drunk, nor is he bitter or isolated. He’s a family man, a great dad, and a successful businessman running a fine wines emporium.
In addition to that, he is a dogged and intelligent investigator. In a story likely inspired by the Gary Condit/Chandra Levy affair, Moe reluctantly agrees to look into the disappearance of a senator’s young intern, missing for the past two years. What he finds instead is a secret that everyone would prefer be left buried.
Coleman has quietly been making a name for himself in recent years, particularly among fellow mystery writers. Authors like Michael Connelly and S.J. Rozan have regularly praised his work. After reading this book, it’s easy to see why.
The time has come for the reading public to embrace Coleman as well. He is a fresh voice in the PI genre and a welcome change-of-pace for mystery fans. Read The James Deans -- you won’t be disappointed. It’s already one of the year’s best.
Don't miss our interview with Reed Farrel Coleman.
Posted by David J. Montgomery in Book Reviews | Permalink
