Review: An Ozark Murder Mystery
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 31, 2012
This is an exceptional murder mystery, with an unlikely hero, a canine sidekick, a sister as murder suspect, an assortment of odd characters, and much local color.  Protagonist Jake Martin (nickname Porky) is an unemployed software engineer and McDonalds regular who gets by on odd jobs, drinks an enormous amount of beer, and suffers from a shrinking bladder and  failing eyesight. He's generous, well-mannered, an aspiring novelist, and obviously smart--not exactly the hard-boiled sleuth one might expect in a mystery. He does not work alone. Always with him is Fred, his beloved golden retriever, the smartest dog since Lassie, who serves as a sort of assistant detective, early warning system, clue-finder, and ice-breaker.  Jake comes to his sister's aid as soon as learns she's in a jam, suspected of murdering her husband in a black widow insurance scam. In the course of his investigation Jake is stalked, run off the road, hospitalized, and loses his vehicle, money, and Visa card. The murder motive is connected with the Jesse James lost fortune myth. His investigative techniques include surveillance camera sabotage, illegal entry, computer hacking, and violation of federal laws concerning personal privacy. Jake's job is to put together all the pieces. The book is well written and edited, fully polished and professional. The dialogue is realistic and differentiated by character. Jake and Fred make a fine pair of detectives. No downers and much wry humor. Altogether, this is a fresh take on the mystery genre and a splendid novel. Highly recommended.