William Gensburger introduces the second chapter of the Mackenzie Michaels Mystery Series by reinforcing in our minds what’s the series is about and what to expect from this second book, ‘Angle of Death,’ enhancing our curiosity enough for us to turn the pages faster, and read the first scene that is very well written. William doesn’t just re-introduce us to the main characters, but to a possible victim, or witness of a crime, or even a person about to discover the corpse… No hints given until… it happens. A delightful way to start a mystery.
William Gensburger increases his attention to the details when it comes to imagery, pulling the reader in and keeping them there until the full point of the scene is made. Not only that, but there are many scenes based on logic and fact and common sense. Simple things that reveal the sheer amount of research put into this book make it worth every second. The direction of the wind at the beach, the effect of the plane’s altitude, chloroform action time are all things one doesn’t read often. It was important William put in such details. Points like this make the book much more believable, professional and valuable. This is where you notice the mastery of the craft. Love it!
The regular, easy going narrative makes this book easy to enjoy. William lets the case develop as he presents new characters, settings and other details, and in detail, gives the reader a solid view of things.
In this book, Tyson and Jameson get major reading time. It was super cool, and heart-warming, to see the stoic and determined Jameson with added layers of emotive colors as he mentors Tyson. We can see a whole new aspect of Jameson that becomes ever more present as the book develops. Tyson binds everyone together and adds a lot to other characters’ behaviors with his teen energy. He was having a blast in the book and made other characters shine.
We see the other face of every MC due to the circumstances they are under, adding a layer of ‘known-comfort’ and surprise to the reader. Very nice by William Gensburger.
So, Maxie and the gang are in a bit of a ‘situation’. They must go to Los Angeles in order to solve a case, but, in order to do that they have to stay at Maxie’s ex-husband’s mansion, and that is… unpleasant. There’s humor as well as cringe-worthy moments in the interactions of the main characters and Brad, and there is always alcohol involved.
Regardless of all the egotistical moments from the ‘beloved super-star,’ Brad, there is something off with him. His girlfriend is missing, and he doesn’t seem to be the least affected by that fact. This, or he is a good actor, which he is known for. What does he know? What secrets is he hiding? Is he the only one with secrets in this relationship?
It’s interesting to see the whole dynamic play out as Maxie does her best to keep her composure as a detective—without punching Brad in the face—to solve this case as quickly as possible so as to get out of the company of her ex-husband. Yet, the case has grown cold, and it’s growing colder as days pass without clues, and our detectives have a very late start to the case. The big question looms: “Is she even alive?”
When it comes to Brad, there is a wonderful and raw desconstruction of what happens when certain people get famous. How the lack of self-control and the illusions that one might have, can and will destroy a relationship. The vain promises, the ego, the ungratefulness, and how crushing it is for the other person that had been cheated and lied to. It’s enthralling to see how William Gensburger explains, and shows, the rise and fall of the Maxie-Brad relationship, allowing room for the reader to feel present as this happens. Wonderful stuff right here.
William Gensburger takes the time to craft a great villain, Hassan.
Although it was hard to take the harshness of the villain—how despicable and unlikable he was—we have to admit that he was very well written. Hassan, is a determined, unmoving, laser-focused character that has the presence of mind, the intelligence and a mental-strength of epic proportions! Apparently “crafted” by a government, or agency for years, he is unstoppable, not because he is powerful, but because he trusts his plan, a plan that none can stop.
We have to warn readers here that the approach of William Gensburger might offend and ruffle feathers of some readers, but, our team did discuss this with the author and he explained why he used such an approach and did not want to attack or make a prejudice to the Iranian or Islamic community as a whole, but he used the one character to bring certain points to the table. Your discretion is advised.
This approach with the two sides of the book, make the reader keep two mysteries in mind: “What’s the ultimate plan of Hassan?” because he will succeed, and “where is our missing person?” because she left without a trace.
This book is a mystery that those who have strong ideals will find not only challenging, but refreshing. It’s bold, filled with great examples, high contrasts, shakes the reader in many ways, and it’s unpredictable!
Once again we congratulate William Gensburger for the EXCELLENT social commentary he brings forward in his books. Lovely work right here, and we can’t wait to read the third book, “The Extremist” because, it focuses on this great and determined villain, Hassan.
Pros:
- EXCELLENT social commentary
- EXCELLENT imagery, detailed and precise
- EXCELLENT use of logic when it came to the detectives finding clues
- EXCELLENT research and reality based, fact-checked scenes
- EXCELLENT villain
- EXCELLENT contrasts when it comes to the Brad and Devin, Brad and Maxie, and the contrast that the villain created
- GREAT team-work play here, including Tyson contributions, which was really nice
- We appreciated that Maxie kept her composure in the face of
- Although this book is about Maxie, Tyson and Jameson got lots of “screen time” and it was lovely to see such a great example given by these two characters
- The book isn’t politically correct
Cons:
This isn’t a “Con” per say, it’s more of a reminder: This book will not suit everyone, and the views and goals of the author can be misinterpreted, which is completely normal.
Scribble's Worth 