Review: A Christmas Caper Worthy Of O'Henry!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 09 30, 2012
When a ruthless gang of pickpockets invades a "party" train in Atlanta, they intend to strip unwary passengers of valuables on Christmas Eve.  The thieves assume the names of Roman gods but nothing about them is noble.  Their well-oiled strategy proceeded according to plan until an unlikely hero disrupts their well-tuned timing.  Is he a rival thief, an undercover cop, or just a hapless traveler?  The gang is determined to turn "The Joker" into a victim before the night ends.Ray is a sharp-eyed observer who notices the gang, but he does not care about their crimes.  In fact Ray cares about nothing.  He's got his own careful plan for the evening and does not mean to survive past midnight--until he meets an "angel."  Enthralled by the beautiful enigma, who he believes is another member of the gang, he's willing to let her strip him of riches and leave him cold and dead.  Misty Love sees nobility in this broken man and can't  fail another assignment.This excellent tale incorporates the miracle of "A Wonderful Life," the clever thievery of "The Sting" and the romance of "Water For Elephants."  The author expertly weaves a complicated story line, spiced with outlandish characters, into a fast-pace plot.  The characters become sympathetic or despicable as the reader learns their histories.  We yearn for success or failure, befitting the nature of the persona, as danger looms.It's a bitter-sweet Christmas tale worthy of O'Henry but the events might have transpired on any festive weekend.  Don't sell this book short because it's a novella.  The story is jam packed with action, pathos, and intrigue--enough to keep the reader on edge until the very end.  I found it interesting to read the author's revelations about trying to get the story published after the story ended, and I'm happy another talented author found a voice through self publishing.  What if O'Henry had been faced with similar restrictions?  The world might have missed his classic tales.  Good job Reb, keep the good work coming!