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Grey Daze: A Lance Underphal Mystery
“An action-packed page turner based on real events, this murder mystery/thriller is layered with plot twists and alarming details, along with voices of the dead and visions of imminent peril. Grey Daze is sure to please already entrenched Underphal fans and draw new ones to the fold. Highly recommended for thriller/suspense fans.” – Chanticleer Review
“A vigorous mystery with a vivid and engaging style that brings the action before the reader in full color. A fine choice for an adrenaline-fueled escape, with three-dimensional characters and bold, no-holds-barred writing.” – IndieReader Top Book Pick
"A well-written mystery that would appeal to those mature audiences who are looking for fast-paced stories from an experienced hand." – ForeWord Reviews
"A worthy blend of psychic visions and good old-fashioned detective work" – Kirkus Reviews
A Supernatural Thriller – Something is wrong. As Lance Underphal pads softly across the cold flagstone, he hears her weeping. She is on her knees, hunched over in the middle of the room, her back to him, facing the dark fireplace. Something is very wrong. Lance wants to rush to her, but can’t. In a hoarse whisper, he says, “Callie?” She lets out a mournful wail from deep within as she turns to him, their infant son in her arms, blue and still. He reels from the blow. How can this be? They don’t have a son.
At home in bed, Realtor Callie Harper finds she is not alone. At the cool touch of her estranged uncle’s hand, she shudders. She got the call a few hours ago. Uncle Harold is dead.
Grey Daze, the third novel in the Lance Underphal Mystery series is dark, dangerous—not for the for the faint of heart.
Looking for a new series of supernatural thrillers? Psychic novels of mystery and suspense? Perhaps a paranormal mystery? Or maybe those scary books for adults only? Regardless, the dark, disturbing novels by Indie Author, Michael Allan Scott, won’t disappoint.
“A vigorous mystery with a vivid and engaging style that brings the action before the reader in full color. A fine choice for an adrenaline-fueled escape, with three-dimensional characters and bold, no-holds-barred writing.” – IndieReader Top Book Pick
"A well-written mystery that would appeal to those mature audiences who are looking for fast-paced stories from an experienced hand." – ForeWord Reviews
"A worthy blend of psychic visions and good old-fashioned detective work" – Kirkus Reviews
A Supernatural Thriller – Something is wrong. As Lance Underphal pads softly across the cold flagstone, he hears her weeping. She is on her knees, hunched over in the middle of the room, her back to him, facing the dark fireplace. Something is very wrong. Lance wants to rush to her, but can’t. In a hoarse whisper, he says, “Callie?” She lets out a mournful wail from deep within as she turns to him, their infant son in her arms, blue and still. He reels from the blow. How can this be? They don’t have a son.
At home in bed, Realtor Callie Harper finds she is not alone. At the cool touch of her estranged uncle’s hand, she shudders. She got the call a few hours ago. Uncle Harold is dead.
Grey Daze, the third novel in the Lance Underphal Mystery series is dark, dangerous—not for the for the faint of heart.
Looking for a new series of supernatural thrillers? Psychic novels of mystery and suspense? Perhaps a paranormal mystery? Or maybe those scary books for adults only? Regardless, the dark, disturbing novels by Indie Author, Michael Allan Scott, won’t disappoint.
- GenresMysteryParanormal
306 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2015
About the author
Michael Allan Scott
16 books485 followersWhen asked about time spent in solitary confinement in the Maricopa felony block, he said, “Some things are better left a mystery.” Yet he admits to drawing on life’s darker experiences to create a new breed of murder mystery thrillers. Michael Allan Scott, his wife, Cynthia, and their rescue Doberman, Roxie live with coyotes, bobcats, and javelina in the Arizona desert.
To get your FREE E-book, go to michaelallanscott.com
The cross-genre Lance Underphal and Jena Halpern Murder Mystery Thriller series are available on the Author’s Amazon page.
You may also check out the book trailers for Dark Side of Sunset Pointe and Flight of the Tarantula Hawk on YouTube.
For more on Indie Author, Michael Allan Scott, and his murder mystery thriller series, visit michaelallanscott.com
To get your FREE E-book, go to michaelallanscott.com
The cross-genre Lance Underphal and Jena Halpern Murder Mystery Thriller series are available on the Author’s Amazon page.
You may also check out the book trailers for Dark Side of Sunset Pointe and Flight of the Tarantula Hawk on YouTube.
For more on Indie Author, Michael Allan Scott, and his murder mystery thriller series, visit michaelallanscott.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 17, 2015
I’m sure you’ve read the thrilling excerpt for this book already. There’s no way I can describe this book any better.
I can say that, while this isn’t the first book in this series, I jumped right in and had no problems following it.
Being a fan of character driven stories, I found some strong ones here.
The main protagonist, Lance Underphal, isn’t your typical one. He’s no longer in his fifties, has a bad heart, and is still grieving over the loss of his beloved wife, who visits him from time to time..
He has met a new woman, one who might help fill that gaping hole, give him another chance at love. But first he has to solve a case. One that’s rife with unsavory characters. From deadly bikers, to corrupt police, Lance will need some friends if he’s to catch a killer and survive despite the bad odds.
The paranormal elements had me fascinated. There’s more than one ghost haunting Lance. He’s a psychic and not surprised by that. If only some of them didn’t scare the crap out of him. They aren’t all pretty and glowing when they appear, and some have their own agendas, dark ones.
The writing is excellent. I came really close to seeing the movie as I read it. Vivid detail and imagination put me in the thick of it. I got creeped out in several places. Especially at a nasty, run down house. The author didn’t hold my hand. He made me smell the awful stench of the place. Hear the scurrying of thousands of roaches. Feel the evil presence fouling it.
There’s such a great bunch of characters too. Aside from Lance and his ghostly wife, Sonja, there’s his new love interest, Callie. She’s no shrinking violet and has her own little paranormal talents.
Then there’s Lance’s friend, Detective Frank Salmon. He’s stoic yet fierce when his friends are threatened. Reminds me Hodges from Criminal Minds. Doesn’t say much and rarely smiles unless he’s around his wife, Lacey. She’s a nurturer with lots of patience.
Can’t forget Jake Jacobs, a federal private investigator. He’s a huge bear of a man and I could just picture him and his lady friend, Laura. She’s a bit older, sassy, and such a tiny thing. I had such fun with these two.
Things get so much worse for Lance. It appears he’s being accused of the negligent death of his wife by her sister and she’s also suing him.
The bad things keep on coming and Lance just hopes his heart can take it.
I got thrills and chills, plenty of mystery, and more than one plot to follow. All made for an excellent read. You can bet I’ll be going back to the beginning of this series now.
I received this book for my honest review.
I can say that, while this isn’t the first book in this series, I jumped right in and had no problems following it.
Being a fan of character driven stories, I found some strong ones here.
The main protagonist, Lance Underphal, isn’t your typical one. He’s no longer in his fifties, has a bad heart, and is still grieving over the loss of his beloved wife, who visits him from time to time..
He has met a new woman, one who might help fill that gaping hole, give him another chance at love. But first he has to solve a case. One that’s rife with unsavory characters. From deadly bikers, to corrupt police, Lance will need some friends if he’s to catch a killer and survive despite the bad odds.
The paranormal elements had me fascinated. There’s more than one ghost haunting Lance. He’s a psychic and not surprised by that. If only some of them didn’t scare the crap out of him. They aren’t all pretty and glowing when they appear, and some have their own agendas, dark ones.
The writing is excellent. I came really close to seeing the movie as I read it. Vivid detail and imagination put me in the thick of it. I got creeped out in several places. Especially at a nasty, run down house. The author didn’t hold my hand. He made me smell the awful stench of the place. Hear the scurrying of thousands of roaches. Feel the evil presence fouling it.
There’s such a great bunch of characters too. Aside from Lance and his ghostly wife, Sonja, there’s his new love interest, Callie. She’s no shrinking violet and has her own little paranormal talents.
Then there’s Lance’s friend, Detective Frank Salmon. He’s stoic yet fierce when his friends are threatened. Reminds me Hodges from Criminal Minds. Doesn’t say much and rarely smiles unless he’s around his wife, Lacey. She’s a nurturer with lots of patience.
Can’t forget Jake Jacobs, a federal private investigator. He’s a huge bear of a man and I could just picture him and his lady friend, Laura. She’s a bit older, sassy, and such a tiny thing. I had such fun with these two.
Things get so much worse for Lance. It appears he’s being accused of the negligent death of his wife by her sister and she’s also suing him.
The bad things keep on coming and Lance just hopes his heart can take it.
I got thrills and chills, plenty of mystery, and more than one plot to follow. All made for an excellent read. You can bet I’ll be going back to the beginning of this series now.
I received this book for my honest review.
Want to read
October 10, 2015I won this book from Goodreads First Reads. Review coming soon.
September 27, 2015
Another brilliant work of art from Michael Allan Scott. Powerful and compelling.
Lance Underphal, our reluctant psychic, once again finds himself on that slippery slope to hell and back. He can't get a break, it seems. Talk about kicking a guy while he's down. Thankfully, his dead wife, Sonja, has his back.
Scott, masterfully, leads us down that dark path through evil and destruction. Like painting a masterpiece in vivid color, I'm in in awe of his talent.
I, for one, am anxiously awaiting the release of the fourth novel in the Lance Underphal series. "Cut-Throat Syndrome"
Lance Underphal, our reluctant psychic, once again finds himself on that slippery slope to hell and back. He can't get a break, it seems. Talk about kicking a guy while he's down. Thankfully, his dead wife, Sonja, has his back.
Scott, masterfully, leads us down that dark path through evil and destruction. Like painting a masterpiece in vivid color, I'm in in awe of his talent.
I, for one, am anxiously awaiting the release of the fourth novel in the Lance Underphal series. "Cut-Throat Syndrome"
July 29, 2021
The murder of an old man. The police won't do anything about it. Lance has a new female friend. The murder victim happens to be her uncle. She asks Lance and Jake for help. Meanwhile, Lance's world is turned upside down by other extenuating circumstances. Lance's psychic ability provides insight into the extrme danger of solving the murder. The emotional rollercoaster, the twists and turns of solving the crime, some really interesting tidbits concerning the uncle, let alone Lance's relationships, make this an excellent read.
June 28, 2017
This is the third book in this series. It's the only one i’ve read and I had no problem following this great story.
Lance Underohal is a psychic who has recently found fame by helping the police solve crimes. A friend of Lance’s is Jake, a PI who is an ex seal with connections to get things done. Their significant others. Callie, a realtor and possible girlfriend of Lance, takes center stage when she knows something is wrong with her uncle in another state. Lance is supposed to be helping her but gets caught up in his own problems. Jake steps in to assist her.
On the surface Callie’s uncles death is easily explained. An old guy dying from natural causes. This never sits right with Callie. As Lance gets through his distracting legal problems he is haunted by Callie’s dead uncle and other terrible things he can't finger out.
The author included some sexual scenes and storylines which I felt were a distraction from the story. This is a great book and doesn't need anything extra to keep you interested. It is a series so it may be needed to tie aspects of the series together. As a stand alone book the story is intense and exciting without the sexual content.
Nothing is what it seems in this book. A number of involved intertwining stories take place in Grey Daze. This style of storytelling makes it a page turner. Dead or alive you can't escape your past.
December 4, 2015
Grey Daze: A Lance Underphal Mystery by Michael Allan Scott
Lance Underphal, a psychic who is guided by his dead wife finds himself in trouble. Determined to clear his name he gets help from his (Ghost) wife and a few other friends. Add to it he is not in the best of health, but he still is determined to solve this crime.
Things get dangerous as he unravels the truth and is faced with corrupt police, bad bikers, a drug addict and an underworld criminal. Add the ghost, and paranormal twist and we have the makings of a suspense filled intense read.
This is the third installment of the Underphal Mysteries, but I was still able to understand what was going on, and get a feel for each character. Lance and his ghost wife were very likable. The plot was fantastic, a lot of twist turns and surprises. Attention to details drew me in from the first page. I highly recommend Grey Daze: A Lance Underphal Mystery to those who love a great mystery with a paranormal twist.
Lance Underphal, a psychic who is guided by his dead wife finds himself in trouble. Determined to clear his name he gets help from his (Ghost) wife and a few other friends. Add to it he is not in the best of health, but he still is determined to solve this crime.
Things get dangerous as he unravels the truth and is faced with corrupt police, bad bikers, a drug addict and an underworld criminal. Add the ghost, and paranormal twist and we have the makings of a suspense filled intense read.
This is the third installment of the Underphal Mysteries, but I was still able to understand what was going on, and get a feel for each character. Lance and his ghost wife were very likable. The plot was fantastic, a lot of twist turns and surprises. Attention to details drew me in from the first page. I highly recommend Grey Daze: A Lance Underphal Mystery to those who love a great mystery with a paranormal twist.
December 25, 2015
Lance Underphal is a Psychic he is guided by his dead Wife. He finds himself in trouble. Lance is determined to clear his name with the help of a few friends and his ( Ghost) Wife he is not in the best of health but he is determined to solve the crime and clear his name. Things get dangerous when he finds and unravels the truth . He is faced with corrupt police, a drug addict, bad bikers and an underworld criminal. Grey Daze is a suspense filled intense read. I haven't read the first two books but i was still able to understand and follow the story. If you enjoy a fantastic mystery with a paranormal twist I highly recommend you read Grey Daze.
September 21, 2015
Mixture of two different world while reading... Loved how the author collaborated them into one to make an amazing page turner. This book will keep you up all night reading! The characters are lovable and fun as well as the story plot fast paced and twisty! This is a book that you will enjoy!
*Received for an honest review*
*Received for an honest review*
March 6, 2017
Grey Daze by Michael Allan Scott is a 306-page supernatural thriller published in 2015 selling for USD 2.99 on Amazon but available free through Kindle Unlimited. It is supernatural in that some of the characters have feelings that they can communicate with dead relatives, some of the characters more so than others. Lance is a full-on out-of-the-closet psychic. His psychic powers were revealed to the public by an investigative journalist and he has received unwanted attention ever since. His visions don't merely come and go. He is able to check in with his dead wife, Sonja, almost at will. Sonja gives him advice about whatever current problems he has and occasionally lets him know things coming up in the immediate future. That is quite friendly of her considering Lance believes he killed her. Sonja's sister, Hilde thinks Lance killed her. Lance is occasionally in court because Lance's nephew, a lawyer, has brought charges of manslaughter against Lance for killing Sonja. The one "person" who believes Lance didn't kill Sonja is Sonja; she constantly gives reassurances to Lance that he is not at fault while she is helping Lance to solve another murder.
This is not a novel about Lance. He is just spiritual support (pun intended) to Callie. Callie has an uncle she can't reach. She checks in with him periodically as he is eighty years old, she thinks he is probably lonely, and she remembers good times with Uncle Harold from when she was a child. She is right to try; he is dead, the victim of a scam that took Uncle Harold for almost one million dollars from his pension funds. When Callie can't reach him, she calls Lance who has already had a dream about Harold and his fate. Although Lance would like to meet with Callie, he gets arrested before he can do so leaving Callie with nothing to do but try to enlist the aid of Jake Jacobs, the "two Jakes" of his PI business. Jake is ex-Navy SEAL, so we have a character with the necessary muscle and skill to deal with whoever may have killed Harold. Jake's dark deeds in the past, necessary to his work as a SEAL, has produced the stereotypical cold, emotionless, aloof character. But girlfriend Laura sees through all that. Six years older than Jake, she introduces Jake to new worlds and experiences.
Characters who help include Frank and Lacy. Frank is a cop; other characters will refer to him when the time is right to bring in authorities. Characters who don't help but move the story along are the gang of bad folks. There is Maria, the nurse's aid who killed Harold (not a spoiler, the reader will know this in the first chapter). Denny is Maria's live-in boyfriend. They live in a crowded trailer; the meth cooking gear takes up a lot of room. Moon is Denny's boss and the next step up in a meth distribution chain. Jake has a lot to do.
There is a lot going on in this novel. The murder mystery is not who killed Harold, it is how they will get caught. Will Lance come to terms with his wife's death and escape the bogus murder charges? That is another parallel important story. Will Callie and Lance develop a romantic relationship? Perhaps, there are subtle hints of and interesting problems with such a relationship. Will ex-military Jake be able to lead a normal life that includes an exclusive relationship with an older woman rather than with the occasional weightlifter groupies?
I like the way the characters are slowly developed. Their past flaws made them what they are and the flaws are revealed in a step-by-step fashion. This is a collection of aged characters. I never felt comfortable with knowing exactly how old everyone is in the story. We know Laura is six years older than Jake and Jake is a retired Navy Seal? How old are these folks? Callie has grown children, has gone through menopause, and Lance appears to be receiving Social Security benefits. This might be a story of senior romance. Frank is a senior police officer. Uncle Harold died at over eighty years of age and there are hints he still had an active sex life. Everybody seems to be old except the gang of dopers who are supposed to die young anyway. All these experienced characters give author Scott room for character development and he does it well.
There is a surprise ending although there are hints in different parts of the book about what it might be. There are enough other situations that must come to a conclusion that this twist might not have been needed but it does provide an additional kick.
Readers might want to look at the author's notes at the almost end of the book. He describes his research; it is always something of interest to me. Following that is an excerpt from a follow-on book. It is my preference never to read excerpts such as this. If I liked this book, and I did, I will read the next one. The excerpt spoils things for me.
And my last address in the US was in Scottsdale, AZ. But that is only of interest to me.
This is not a novel about Lance. He is just spiritual support (pun intended) to Callie. Callie has an uncle she can't reach. She checks in with him periodically as he is eighty years old, she thinks he is probably lonely, and she remembers good times with Uncle Harold from when she was a child. She is right to try; he is dead, the victim of a scam that took Uncle Harold for almost one million dollars from his pension funds. When Callie can't reach him, she calls Lance who has already had a dream about Harold and his fate. Although Lance would like to meet with Callie, he gets arrested before he can do so leaving Callie with nothing to do but try to enlist the aid of Jake Jacobs, the "two Jakes" of his PI business. Jake is ex-Navy SEAL, so we have a character with the necessary muscle and skill to deal with whoever may have killed Harold. Jake's dark deeds in the past, necessary to his work as a SEAL, has produced the stereotypical cold, emotionless, aloof character. But girlfriend Laura sees through all that. Six years older than Jake, she introduces Jake to new worlds and experiences.
Characters who help include Frank and Lacy. Frank is a cop; other characters will refer to him when the time is right to bring in authorities. Characters who don't help but move the story along are the gang of bad folks. There is Maria, the nurse's aid who killed Harold (not a spoiler, the reader will know this in the first chapter). Denny is Maria's live-in boyfriend. They live in a crowded trailer; the meth cooking gear takes up a lot of room. Moon is Denny's boss and the next step up in a meth distribution chain. Jake has a lot to do.
There is a lot going on in this novel. The murder mystery is not who killed Harold, it is how they will get caught. Will Lance come to terms with his wife's death and escape the bogus murder charges? That is another parallel important story. Will Callie and Lance develop a romantic relationship? Perhaps, there are subtle hints of and interesting problems with such a relationship. Will ex-military Jake be able to lead a normal life that includes an exclusive relationship with an older woman rather than with the occasional weightlifter groupies?
I like the way the characters are slowly developed. Their past flaws made them what they are and the flaws are revealed in a step-by-step fashion. This is a collection of aged characters. I never felt comfortable with knowing exactly how old everyone is in the story. We know Laura is six years older than Jake and Jake is a retired Navy Seal? How old are these folks? Callie has grown children, has gone through menopause, and Lance appears to be receiving Social Security benefits. This might be a story of senior romance. Frank is a senior police officer. Uncle Harold died at over eighty years of age and there are hints he still had an active sex life. Everybody seems to be old except the gang of dopers who are supposed to die young anyway. All these experienced characters give author Scott room for character development and he does it well.
There is a surprise ending although there are hints in different parts of the book about what it might be. There are enough other situations that must come to a conclusion that this twist might not have been needed but it does provide an additional kick.
Readers might want to look at the author's notes at the almost end of the book. He describes his research; it is always something of interest to me. Following that is an excerpt from a follow-on book. It is my preference never to read excerpts such as this. If I liked this book, and I did, I will read the next one. The excerpt spoils things for me.
And my last address in the US was in Scottsdale, AZ. But that is only of interest to me.
August 13, 2018
MURDER MOST FOUL
Michael Allan Scott is an indie writer of psychic, supernatural thrillers. His main character, Lance Underphal, has come late in life into knowing of and utilizing a psychic ability to find and capture murders through his psychic visions.
I find these books to be as unusual as they are well defined and written. I enjoy spending time with Lance and his friends.
Michael Allan Scott is an indie writer of psychic, supernatural thrillers. His main character, Lance Underphal, has come late in life into knowing of and utilizing a psychic ability to find and capture murders through his psychic visions.
I find these books to be as unusual as they are well defined and written. I enjoy spending time with Lance and his friends.
May 10, 2020
This is a very down and gritty novel. The description of Uncle's Harold's house gave me the heeby-jeebies. I always found having an active imagination to be a blessing. With this story, I found it to be a curse. I get Lance, and if the author stays with the relationship. Callie will be the one bright light that Lance can hold onto to keep him grounded. The story is action-packed and the author keeps a wonderful timeline. These stories for me should be kept spaced apart.
May 4, 2020
I would definitely say to try and read this series in order. It was my first one in the series and I obviously missed a lot of back story. Reguardless I did enjoy the inricacy of the plot and characters. I found it a bit slow to get involved in but that may have simply been reading out of order.
The book was definitely enjoyable enough to read more.
The book was definitely enjoyable enough to read more.
May 21, 2020
Another great Lance Underphal Mystery Thriller.
Lance is a tortured soul helped through his psychic world by talks with his dead wife.
A new romance and canine companion portend a better future for Lance.
Lance is a tortured soul helped through his psychic world by talks with his dead wife.
A new romance and canine companion portend a better future for Lance.
July 5, 2020
I have had vertigo and at times I thought Lance might have the same thing. Good on the ROC.org. With that in mind, I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
August 13, 2022
A great story from this author - the second one I've read. Plenty of unforeseen twists in the story, great pacing and a realistic take on such a great plotline, many readers are sure to enjoy.
I've put Michael Allan Scott on my "must read" list and look forward to many more incredible tales.
I've put Michael Allan Scott on my "must read" list and look forward to many more incredible tales.
June 24, 2020
A fast paced paranormal crime thriller that you will enjoy. Lance Underthal is starting to get his psychic visions under control and he meets a woman that he likes. He finds she has a touch of psychic abilities as well, though not as strong as his and they have a roller coaster relationship. I would recommend this book.
September 2, 2020
Grey Daze
I have purchased several of your novels and fine them.to be worthy reads. Hooking me me with your storytelling and creative mystery writing.
I have purchased several of your novels and fine them.to be worthy reads. Hooking me me with your storytelling and creative mystery writing.
September 6, 2020
Without giving anything away, I wish there were really somebody like Lance to help families. I have had vertigo and at times I thought Lance might have the same thing. Good on the ROC.org. I enjoyed the story – especially the ending. It is so nice to see and talk with friends, isn’t it? And I recommend the book.
July 14, 2018
A good book
May 18, 2019
Best in series so far
The stories can be dark at times, but there is also the best of humanity on display as well. I think you'll enjoy them.
The stories can be dark at times, but there is also the best of humanity on display as well. I think you'll enjoy them.
February 23, 2018
ESP definitely doesn't work the way you think it should. For Lance Underphal it can be a living nightmare. Luckily he's learning to deal with it better. Lance and friends help his girlfriend Callie find out what happened to her uncle and so much more than they wanted to know. This thriller had a great plot and is very well written. It's hard to believe Michael Allen Scott is an indie author. I'm definitely reading more of his books!
February 19, 2017
Writetimes.org: Review by Patricia Saunders
Michael Allan Scott has a way with words. Grey Daze is a well written multi-genre thriller with a paranormal slant that is interesting and subdued enough to be believable. It took me a bit longer than I usually take to read this kind of work as Mr. Scott does a fantastic job of vividly describing scenes, locations, and characters. I occasionally went back a few pages just to revisit descriptions that are so well written I wanted to read them again. His mastery of the tale allows readers to visualize every scene making it impossible not to get lost in the plot.
I enjoy a good analogy and Michael Allan Scott uses them well; making them original to his story. No clichés to be found here. My favorite line in the book was the opening words to Chapter I: “NERVES JANGLING LIKE downed powerlines on a storm soaked street.”
I loved the fact that one of his characters contemplates between dinner at IHOP or Waffle House. This way of making the reader comfortable in the storyline is something many writers have difficulty achieving. Mr. Scott pulls us in naturally through the characters’ dialogue. We recognize places they may travel or think about, or phrases a character might use. This gives the story a “real feel” as the reader is able to insert his own memories or thoughts into the dialogue.
Mr. Scott’s writing allows the reader to visualize each scene with ease making it impossible not to get lost in the tale.
I HIGHLY recommend this book and give it FIVE STARS. It is contemporary and a fast read (for the most part. Maybe three hours? It took me four hours but I was going back and forth to re-read certain passages). I recommend this book be read on a rainy evening with a warm cup of cold press coffee, and a crispy waffle.
Michael Allan Scott has a way with words. Grey Daze is a well written multi-genre thriller with a paranormal slant that is interesting and subdued enough to be believable. It took me a bit longer than I usually take to read this kind of work as Mr. Scott does a fantastic job of vividly describing scenes, locations, and characters. I occasionally went back a few pages just to revisit descriptions that are so well written I wanted to read them again. His mastery of the tale allows readers to visualize every scene making it impossible not to get lost in the plot.
I enjoy a good analogy and Michael Allan Scott uses them well; making them original to his story. No clichés to be found here. My favorite line in the book was the opening words to Chapter I: “NERVES JANGLING LIKE downed powerlines on a storm soaked street.”
I loved the fact that one of his characters contemplates between dinner at IHOP or Waffle House. This way of making the reader comfortable in the storyline is something many writers have difficulty achieving. Mr. Scott pulls us in naturally through the characters’ dialogue. We recognize places they may travel or think about, or phrases a character might use. This gives the story a “real feel” as the reader is able to insert his own memories or thoughts into the dialogue.
Mr. Scott’s writing allows the reader to visualize each scene with ease making it impossible not to get lost in the tale.
I HIGHLY recommend this book and give it FIVE STARS. It is contemporary and a fast read (for the most part. Maybe three hours? It took me four hours but I was going back and forth to re-read certain passages). I recommend this book be read on a rainy evening with a warm cup of cold press coffee, and a crispy waffle.
October 2, 2017
WHAT AN OUTSTANDING READ!
1. Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lance Underphal is a photographer and psychic.
Callie Harper is Lance's friend.
Harold Abernathy is Callie's uncle.
Sonja is Lance's dead wife.
Jake Jacobs is a private investigator.
Frank Salmon is a detective with the Violent Crimes Unit.
Hilde Johnson is Lance's sister-in-law; Sonja's sister.
2. Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story begins with a woman walking into an unknown home, not wanting to take care of the old man. She puts a pillow over his face and smothers him to death.
Lance has visions of an old home and hears children sobbing. He wakes up in tears, not knowing what it means.
Callie has a feeling that something is wrong with her uncle. He lives in San Bernardino and she hasn't heard from him. She calls Lance and he tells her to call the local police to check on him.
Lance has been arrested and charged with manslaughter of his wife Sonja. Lance is shocked by the charge; he had nothing to do with her death. Even Sonja tells him that. His sister-in-law, Hilde filed the charge. Frank tells Lance that's he's going to try and get him out of jail. He's released pending his arraignment.
Callie calls Jake and asks him if he can find her uncle Harold. She isn't getting any help from the local police. Jake agrees and flies out to San Bernardino. He goes to Harold's home and as soon as he enters, he knows there's a dead body - Harold's.
Lance is supposed to appear in court and hasn't shown up. Frank and Lacey call him with no answer so Frank decides to go to Lance's home. When he arrives, he finds Lance slumped over his recliner, unconscious. When Lance is released from the hospital, he is served with a subpoena for the wrongful death of Sonja by Hilde. Lance can't believe this is happening to him.
Jake believes that Harold was murdered; so does Lance and Callie. Lance has visions of a woman killing Harold, but he can't see her face. Jake continues to investigate and begins to track two people - Denny and Maria.
Lance is in court and the prosecutor believes that since Lance is psychic, he must have known Sonja would be killed.
What happens to Lance? Will he go to jail? Will Jake find Harold's killer? What happens to Lance and Callie? You'll just have to read it for yourself!!
3. Writing Structure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Michael has created two storylines - each one independent of the other. You can feel Lance's and Callie's pain - Lance, as he relives that fateful day and Callie, as she regrets not keeping in touch with her uncle. Lance is a broken man; afraid to be alone, to be loved and to love again. These are characters you truly care about.
4. Ending ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The ending is an emotional rollercoaster with lots of action! You feel bad for what happened to Harold, but then...you hate what he's done. Lance continues to have visions and he finally puts the pieces together. Lance, Callie and Chopper, his doberman make a life together. Lance is happy, at last.
5. Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The subject of elder abuse is timely; it is a subject that is difficult to talk about. Michael has done an excellent job at writing about it but adds a twist to the story. It is a well thought-out story with all the emotions that go with it. Get ready to hold your breath as you read this story! Well gone, Michael, well done!
1. Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lance Underphal is a photographer and psychic.
Callie Harper is Lance's friend.
Harold Abernathy is Callie's uncle.
Sonja is Lance's dead wife.
Jake Jacobs is a private investigator.
Frank Salmon is a detective with the Violent Crimes Unit.
Hilde Johnson is Lance's sister-in-law; Sonja's sister.
2. Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story begins with a woman walking into an unknown home, not wanting to take care of the old man. She puts a pillow over his face and smothers him to death.
Lance has visions of an old home and hears children sobbing. He wakes up in tears, not knowing what it means.
Callie has a feeling that something is wrong with her uncle. He lives in San Bernardino and she hasn't heard from him. She calls Lance and he tells her to call the local police to check on him.
Lance has been arrested and charged with manslaughter of his wife Sonja. Lance is shocked by the charge; he had nothing to do with her death. Even Sonja tells him that. His sister-in-law, Hilde filed the charge. Frank tells Lance that's he's going to try and get him out of jail. He's released pending his arraignment.
Callie calls Jake and asks him if he can find her uncle Harold. She isn't getting any help from the local police. Jake agrees and flies out to San Bernardino. He goes to Harold's home and as soon as he enters, he knows there's a dead body - Harold's.
Lance is supposed to appear in court and hasn't shown up. Frank and Lacey call him with no answer so Frank decides to go to Lance's home. When he arrives, he finds Lance slumped over his recliner, unconscious. When Lance is released from the hospital, he is served with a subpoena for the wrongful death of Sonja by Hilde. Lance can't believe this is happening to him.
Jake believes that Harold was murdered; so does Lance and Callie. Lance has visions of a woman killing Harold, but he can't see her face. Jake continues to investigate and begins to track two people - Denny and Maria.
Lance is in court and the prosecutor believes that since Lance is psychic, he must have known Sonja would be killed.
What happens to Lance? Will he go to jail? Will Jake find Harold's killer? What happens to Lance and Callie? You'll just have to read it for yourself!!
3. Writing Structure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Michael has created two storylines - each one independent of the other. You can feel Lance's and Callie's pain - Lance, as he relives that fateful day and Callie, as she regrets not keeping in touch with her uncle. Lance is a broken man; afraid to be alone, to be loved and to love again. These are characters you truly care about.
4. Ending ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The ending is an emotional rollercoaster with lots of action! You feel bad for what happened to Harold, but then...you hate what he's done. Lance continues to have visions and he finally puts the pieces together. Lance, Callie and Chopper, his doberman make a life together. Lance is happy, at last.
5. Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The subject of elder abuse is timely; it is a subject that is difficult to talk about. Michael has done an excellent job at writing about it but adds a twist to the story. It is a well thought-out story with all the emotions that go with it. Get ready to hold your breath as you read this story! Well gone, Michael, well done!
August 11, 2020
Lush, evocative and gritty, Grey Daze is the gold standard for psychic detective novels.
November 4, 2018
Each time I read one of your books, I want more. I have told numerous people about your books
I was thoroughly thrilled that you let more of James personality out. The action was fast paced but not overdone. The message at the end was surprising, but good. All of Lance Underphal books are very well written and the characters lifelike. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone I know.
I was thoroughly thrilled that you let more of James personality out. The action was fast paced but not overdone. The message at the end was surprising, but good. All of Lance Underphal books are very well written and the characters lifelike. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone I know.
January 21, 2020
This is the 3rd book in the Lance Underphal series. Lance is a psychic and he is dating Callie who also has some psychic ability. She gets a sense that her uncle has died. She and Lance go to where he lived. The place is awful and the psychic energy nearly overwhelms Lance. The more they dig the worse they find out about her uncle. Each clue sends them in to a more terrifying place.
October 1, 2020
I had forgotten this series and the characters in it. I rate this one 4.7 stars.
July 15, 2016
Callie's uncle winds up dead and no one is certain how this came to be. Was it of old age? Poor health? Or could it potentially be murder? With the help of Jake Jacobs, an ex-Navy SEAL and officer; Lance Underphal, one who has physic abilities; and Sonya, Lance's deceased wife, together they figure out what really happened to her uncle and perhaps a little bit more.
In this mystery and suspense-based novel, Scott has done a fine job in interweaving various storylines that end up tying together somewhat cohesively. The author cleverly uses Lance's physic abilities to hint towards the reader of what is to come next, but still keep the reader guessing of how the outcome will actually happen.
There were a couple points in the book that I found a bit uneasy. First, the presence of Sonya is one thing that adds to the paranormal aspect to the novel. However, there is one point where I felt that Lance was seeing two women at the same time. One alive and one deceased, which made me feel uncomfortable, especially when his deceased wife was fondling him, while he was dating the alive girlfriend. I found this to be a bit much for me.
The other part is the confusion I felt towards the main court case in this book. I was left with a guess of the outcome, but I don't feel as if the case was completely closed. This could lead to another book, which might go into more details, but I didn't like being left in the dark.
Overall, I liked the read and would recommend it to those who enjoy mysteries with some paranormal activity.
In this mystery and suspense-based novel, Scott has done a fine job in interweaving various storylines that end up tying together somewhat cohesively. The author cleverly uses Lance's physic abilities to hint towards the reader of what is to come next, but still keep the reader guessing of how the outcome will actually happen.
There were a couple points in the book that I found a bit uneasy. First, the presence of Sonya is one thing that adds to the paranormal aspect to the novel. However, there is one point where I felt that Lance was seeing two women at the same time. One alive and one deceased, which made me feel uncomfortable, especially when his deceased wife was fondling him, while he was dating the alive girlfriend. I found this to be a bit much for me.
The other part is the confusion I felt towards the main court case in this book. I was left with a guess of the outcome, but I don't feel as if the case was completely closed. This could lead to another book, which might go into more details, but I didn't like being left in the dark.
Overall, I liked the read and would recommend it to those who enjoy mysteries with some paranormal activity.
March 7, 2017
What starts out with the gruesome death of a sick old man winds up with close to a "Happily-ever-After" ending is amazing. This was an outstanding story on several levels. I personally hate to give away plotlines in a review and, especially dislike HS Book Report style reviews. The authors do a much better job of providing a book summary if that;s what a prospecting reader is looking for. However, to make the comments I want to I must explain that this story involves a Psychic who is a trusted advisor to the Police. Like the USN says about Ships and Planes carrying Nukes, they neither Confirm nor Deny, I personally have no positive beliefs one way or the other. I only mention this because I'm not sure this phenomenon should be classified as Fantasy. The book also performs in a public-service mode as it brings attention to the growing social problem of abuse against the elderly.
I've recently had some trouble following along with some stories that deal with a number of different character groups, locations, and activities but somehow, with the well-crafted methods of Michael Scott, I had no problem following along. And what a ride it was. The pace of the book just seemed to accelerate to a totally surprising and very satisfying conclusion. It seems to be very rare today to have all ends tied-off, problems solved or resolved, and a clear course ahead for "The Good Guys". And, as an added bonus, we learn we'll have an opportunity to follow along with some new friends.
Review by THE HOLEY ONE
I've recently had some trouble following along with some stories that deal with a number of different character groups, locations, and activities but somehow, with the well-crafted methods of Michael Scott, I had no problem following along. And what a ride it was. The pace of the book just seemed to accelerate to a totally surprising and very satisfying conclusion. It seems to be very rare today to have all ends tied-off, problems solved or resolved, and a clear course ahead for "The Good Guys". And, as an added bonus, we learn we'll have an opportunity to follow along with some new friends.
Review by THE HOLEY ONE
March 23, 2017
GREY DAZE is the third in the Lance Underphal mystery series, and the first one that I have read. I always feel I've cheated myself by not reading a series from the beginning. Writers often do their very best to fill in the back story for the purpose of eliminating confusion in the story and timeline at hand. Michael Allen Scott has done a pretty good job of giving this piece its own legs on which to stand.
I found GREY DAZE to be more story driven than character given. In other words, the story is more developed than the characters. This can make following which character is which a little difficult. I found it interesting that the eponymous series character presents himself in the first person, where the others are presented in a third person voice. This technique helped me keep track of the character about whom I was reading.
GREY DAZE is a murder mystery with a paranormal twist. I have the feeling that I would have appreciated the balance struck between the reality based investigation and the clairvoyant with a greater in depth understanding of the characters. I would definitely consider re-reading this book after reading the first two in the series.
I found GREY DAZE to be more story driven than character given. In other words, the story is more developed than the characters. This can make following which character is which a little difficult. I found it interesting that the eponymous series character presents himself in the first person, where the others are presented in a third person voice. This technique helped me keep track of the character about whom I was reading.
GREY DAZE is a murder mystery with a paranormal twist. I have the feeling that I would have appreciated the balance struck between the reality based investigation and the clairvoyant with a greater in depth understanding of the characters. I would definitely consider re-reading this book after reading the first two in the series.
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