Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Book Review: DARK TIGER by William G. Tapply

Stoney Calhoun is a wonderful lead-detective, even though he’s not really a detective. A lightning strike changed his world seven years ago, or so they tell him, and he can’t remember anything about his life before the event. Sometimes he wonders…but the telltale scar supports their story. He co-owns Kate’s Bait, Tackle, and Woolly Buggers shop in Casco Bay, Maine with his business partner and lover, Kate Balaban. On occasion, he’s called upon to serve his country, utilizing skills and talents he learned in his previous life. Like disappearing into the wilds of northern Maine and poising as a fishing guide while trying to uncover the true story behind the murder of a government operative and a sixteen year-old girl in a staged murder/suicide.

Dark Tiger is a compelling mystery populated with well-drawn characters, a fast-paced plot, and a lot of subtext. I especially liked the contrast between the calm, gentle present-day Stoney with the darker, more violent personality we suspect he possessed in his past. His pragmatic and mature outlook toward his relationship with Kate, and the other secondary characters, adds an unexpected layer to his character.

Tapply’s writing style is not as gripping as his characters and his plot, but I kept forgetting about that as I continued turning pages. As I think back on the story, more and more subtext becomes apparent, which makes Dark Tiger a terrific read.

My Rating: (5 Star) Read it in one sitting, staying up ‘til the wee hours even though I had to work the next day. You’ve GOTTA read it!

Dark Tiger will be released in hardcover on October 6, 2009 by Minotaur Books - ISBN 978-0-312-37978-0

Visit the author's website at: http://williamgtapply.com or contact Anne Gardner, St. Martin's/Minotaur at (646) 307-5553 or anne.gardner@stmartins.com.

No comments:

Post a Comment