A Leprechaun’s Lament reveiwed by Jennifer Kimble for US Review of Books
When routine Homeland Security funded background checks of all police department civilans take a mysterious turn, Sam Jenkins finds himself caught up in a case the likes of which he thought he hasn’t seen since trading his New York detective badge for the simple life of Prospect Tennessee Police Chief. Finding one of his investigated employees murdered execution style shakes the small police department to its core, thrusting the two newly appointed sergeants into investigative police work unseen by them before. Finding dead end after dead end in their search to uncover the real identity of someone they had unquestionably worked side by side with for over 30 years is only the beginning of their problems.
The author has created quite the character in Sam Jenkins. His raw wit, flirtatious style, and penchant for police work make him someone the reader wants to hear more from. Obviously well-experienced in law enforcement, the author brings intrigue backed by accurate detail to make this a must-read for any crime/mystery lover. The small-town setting of Prospect, TN is the perfect backdrop to introduce Sam Jenkins, as he attempts to adjust to southern life filled with sweet tea, a narcissistic mayor, and a department full of good ole’ boy policemen and women who have likely seen little more than moonshiners and fender-benders in their careers. Twist after twist and the introduction of a little IRA revenge makes this one a page-turner. It’s a Sam Jenkins mystery, which is a good thing because it means there are more in the series to keep us in the trenches with Jenkins.
Award-Winning Author Wayne Zurl delivers another Masterpiece in the Sam Jenkins Mysteries, made for the Big Screen. The main character who we all grew fond of, known as Chief of Police for Prospect is on another case. This was supposed to be a routine investigation of the civilians who work within the department. To Sam’s surprise, the expected and simple becomes the unexpected and complicated.
The drama begins when Murray McGuire is found dead, appearing to be executed. The drama becomes intense when Sam finds a British passport for Murray, and after Sam calls in different helpers to fit the pieces to the puzzle, the drama becomes explosive. Is the murder an act of revenge, and will the suspect be an international killer? The FBI, CIA, and British Intelligence spices up the compelling story.
A beautiful woman, [his dog] Bitsey, and Sam’s unique personality brings more interest to the story, making it more enjoyable.
“A LEPRECHAUN’S LAMENT” ratchets up the tension as much as it does in REVENGE, is as electrifying as NO WAY OUT, and is as entertaining as THE DEPARTED. Highly recommended for all mystery lovers who enjoy thrilling crime stories.
This gem aims to please!
