An open and shut case of vandalism leaves more questions than answers for PI Nick Sibelius. When entrepreneur, Dan Hoyt, makes a deal to partner in a desalination project with virtual gaming icon, Izzy Zydeco, Hoyt begins to count his money. However, Hoyt’s partner has more insidious plans, which involve a twisted business strategy to build a market for his desalinated water by contaminating the Austin water supply for the next century. Working with his partner, Theresa, Nick must thwart Izzy and ultimately choose between justice and saving Theresa’s life. Murder, drugs and H2O--nowhere else but Texas.
Richard Hacker lives and writes in Seattle, Washington. His latest novel, VENGEANCE OF GRIMBALD, published by Del Sol Press is the second in the sci-fi/fantasy thriller series, Alchimeia. Previous work includes the first book of the series, DIE BACK and three humorous crime novels set in Texas: KILL'T DEAD OR WORSE, ALL HAT & NO CATTLE, and BUZZARD BAIT. He has been recognized by the Writer's League of Texas and the Pacific Northwest Writers Association.
After living many years in Austin, Texas he moved, along with his wife, to Seattle, Washington. He enjoys hiking, cooking, singing jazz, sketching, and having adventures on his scooter. His writing partner is a springer spaniel named Jazz, who helps with proofreading and ball fetching.
He is currently working on next book in the Alchimeia series, as well as a humorous sci-fi novel, THE BIFURCATION OF DUNGSTEN CREASE.
PI Nick Sibelius is in dire need of money to keep his PI business afloat. Money is the sole reason he takes on Dan Hoyt's vandalism case despite Nick's misgivings.
A simple open and shut case making easy money evolves into a sociopath named Charity hell-bent on ruining Hoyt and killing Nick. Additionally, Hoyt's business partner, Izzy, is delving into unethical practices which may also include betraying a major drug cartel, contaminating Austin's water supply, and killing Hoyt.
Along with his new partner, Theresa, and an ex-flame from homeland security, Mary Lou, Nick is in a race against time to save everyone's lives and Austin's water supply by thwarting Izzy from executing his plan which is in its final stages. Will Nick succeed?
This was interesting book which was at times tacky, a little disturbing and other times, entertaining and fast-paced. In short, it kept me involved until the end. The current use of Internet, especially Facebook, shown in this story was pretty disturbing, but I did find Charity's character very fascinating and I especially loved what she did in the end. All the characters are close to real in the sense they are human with all their flaws, and I did not at any time only just hate or like them. The feelings kept changing for all the characters as the story unfolded. If you like a light mystery with lots of creative twists and a touch of romance, you will definitely enjoy this one.
Richard Hacker pens "Dirty Water", the second book in the 'Nick Sibelius' series, in a plot filled with murder, mystery and a touch of romance. I found the author's characters to be believable, lovable and a bit dysfunctional but with good chemistry between them and the whole book was a page turner from beginning to end. I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series. A must read for all murder mystery fans.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.