Send In the Clowns by J. Gregory Smith

A Noble Cause was an improvement over Greg’s first book  Final Price as was Legacy of the Dragon over the previous novels.  I enjoyed all of them but this book was even better.   J. Gregory Smith is going to be a smashing success! 

Burly Paul Chang and his quirky sidekick Nelson are back.  This story is one of international terrorism, stalking and political intrigue.

Chang is still recovering from injuries from the previous story.   He is a complex character who is constantly battling his internal dragon.   Nelson’s character of the consummate nerd is equally likeable.  You find yourself seeing these two in people you know.  Greg does a great job with his characterizations. 

I found the story more colorful and delightfully complex with a cynical view of politicians and their overwhelming personal conceit.  Max as a villain was just about perfect.  The circus connection provided abundant color and sly humor. 

A good story, lots of action, likeable characters, what’s not to like?  Oh, and lest I forget, a terrific cover!  My only criticism of the book is that there should be a better back story.  New readers to the series may find themselves struggling a bit. 

J. Greg Smith is on track to be the next Lee Child.   Perhaps we could get Jack Reacher to meet Paul Chang, there would be some serious action in that meeting.   Greg, how about Unleash The Dragon?

I highly recommend this book!

Body of  work of <a type="amzn" > J. Gregory Price </a>

Web Site:  http://www.jgregorysmithbooks.com/bio-personal.html

This book may have been received free of charge from a publisher or a publicist. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations.

Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson and Marshall Karp

Matthew Bannon, an aspiring artist, runs afoul of the Russian mob and some it’s most heinous contract killers. 

Say what you will about the formula aspects of Patterson’s work, I still love it.  I remember my first experience with an L-1 Vette, the slam of the gears and the sheer joy of the speed.   This book is reminiscent of that feeling.  With a pop of the clutch, you have difficulty breathing until that millisecond of air as you shift.   The characters were either exceptionally despicable or eminently loveable.  Sure it is a book of exclamation points but it is fun!  You are treated to a tour of the world, some dumps and some stellar spots.  

The comrade ship of the Marines was also likeable.  I’m lucky enough to have some Marines as friends, I am aware there are no ex-Marines, only those not currently on active duty.   Semper Fi sadly is not the hallmark of our nation any more but luckily there are still people out there who do their damndest to keep us honest and free. (In spite of the sewage like aspects of our elected officials, note I didn’t spare any political affiliation, sadly it seems like whatever stripe they claim, it all ends up on their back and they smell like skunks.)  However I digress but in all fairness, it is my blog and I’ll cry if I want to. (age related humor)

This is an exciting book, expect to devour it in several hours, it isn’t a book that needs a lot of pondering but it was darn good fun.

I highly recommend it.

Body of  work of James Patterson</a>

Body of  work of Marshall Karp</a>

 Site: http://www.jamespatterson.com/books