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The Feathery
The Feathery plot centers around a unique type of golf ball used during a record match at St. Andrews, Scotland in 1849. The story is set in San Diego, London and New York, as well as in ancient and modern Scotland. The game of golf blends with mystery and suspense surrounding an obsession so strong by some to own this valuable antique feathery golf ball that they'll commit murder to satisfy it. A sub-plot involves an attempt by a gambling interest to fix the British Open when the leading player's caddie is abducted to force his withdrawal.
- GenresFiction
272 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2007
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
November 10, 2012
Reviewed by Rebecca Wells for TeensReadToo.com
THE FEATHERY is a sprawling adventure that sweeps over historical fiction, lingers over mystery, and flirts with romance as it spans a timeline of more than 150 years. Though the narration briefly touches down in 1849 and 2004, the bulk of the action begins in 2009, when Scott Beckman, an up-and-coming golfer, inherits an antique golf ball from his deceased mentor, Sandy McNair. When Scott gets the golf ball appraised, he discovers that not only is it a rare type of golf ball known as a feathery, but also that this particular feathery was used by golf legend Hugh McNair to set a course record at the St. Andrews course in 1849.
Though Scott is talented, a string of bad luck on the courses forces him to consider auctioning the feathery, and when he puts it up for auction, the bidding quickly rises to well over $1,000,000. However, shortly thereafter, his tour earnings rise enough that he decides to withdraw the feathery from auction. This move sparks violence from those so obsessed with this priceless feathery that they will rob and murder to get it. Scott survives this conflict, only to find more danger on the golf course when he enters the British Open as a long shot - and, much to the chagrin of those in control of the betting odds, appears to be in contention for the trophy.
The premise of THE FEATHERY is original and interesting; I was surprised to find myself completely caught up in the history of golf shared in this book, as I am not generally very interested in golf. Unfortunately, delivery in this novel is somewhat lacking. The prose is sometimes choppy, the dialogue unrealistic, and the wrenchingly emotional conflicts of the main characters are not given the time and depth that they deserve. For all its faults, though, THE FEATHERY remains engaging because of its unique subject and treatment. It is obvious that the author knows his subject, and his enthusiasm spreads easily to the reader.
THE FEATHERY is a sprawling adventure that sweeps over historical fiction, lingers over mystery, and flirts with romance as it spans a timeline of more than 150 years. Though the narration briefly touches down in 1849 and 2004, the bulk of the action begins in 2009, when Scott Beckman, an up-and-coming golfer, inherits an antique golf ball from his deceased mentor, Sandy McNair. When Scott gets the golf ball appraised, he discovers that not only is it a rare type of golf ball known as a feathery, but also that this particular feathery was used by golf legend Hugh McNair to set a course record at the St. Andrews course in 1849.
Though Scott is talented, a string of bad luck on the courses forces him to consider auctioning the feathery, and when he puts it up for auction, the bidding quickly rises to well over $1,000,000. However, shortly thereafter, his tour earnings rise enough that he decides to withdraw the feathery from auction. This move sparks violence from those so obsessed with this priceless feathery that they will rob and murder to get it. Scott survives this conflict, only to find more danger on the golf course when he enters the British Open as a long shot - and, much to the chagrin of those in control of the betting odds, appears to be in contention for the trophy.
The premise of THE FEATHERY is original and interesting; I was surprised to find myself completely caught up in the history of golf shared in this book, as I am not generally very interested in golf. Unfortunately, delivery in this novel is somewhat lacking. The prose is sometimes choppy, the dialogue unrealistic, and the wrenchingly emotional conflicts of the main characters are not given the time and depth that they deserve. For all its faults, though, THE FEATHERY remains engaging because of its unique subject and treatment. It is obvious that the author knows his subject, and his enthusiasm spreads easily to the reader.
December 4, 2008
A very good story
I thoroughly enjoyed The Feathery. It is a mystery/thriller that takes place in a setting of golf. What is most interesting and remarkable about The Feathery, is that there are two dramas occurring simultaneously, both equally riveting and quick-paced, within its pages. The book starts off with a glimpse into the past setting the stage for the first drama – an incredibly valuable golf artifact handed down through generations becomes a hotly sought-after prize by unscrupulous collectors willing to go to any lengths to secure it for their own private collections. This dangerous situation is woven through the experience of a young golfer who inherited the prized item, and as he guns for the British Open. The tension is heightened on two fronts – the struggle and challenges of the game itself, and the life and death stakes of the pursuit of one of golf’s long lost holy grails. Murder-for-hire, kidnapping, illegal gambling, double-crossing, seduction, and the desire and brave reach for a dream long dreamt and a deep sadness and emotional void to be filled are what await you within The Feathery’s pages.
The Feathery is also a touching story about the redemption of two young juvenile delinquents who suffer from the loss of their fathers at a young age and start acting out. Their futures could either be forfeit or saved. A caring detective and one of golf’s great players take the boys under their wings. All of the characters are believable. The situations they are in are believable, and the journey is an authentic and emotional one. The author, Bill Flynn, has an obvious love and respect for the time-honored game of golf. He has skillfully woven in truly interesting details about the history of the game as well as its technical aspects. I feel a newfound respect and admiration for this popular game.
I was completely charmed by The Feathery. It is an interesting, touching read that has left me with great fondness for the history it taught and the story it told. It is also a lesson in faith, believing in oneself, staying true to your path when the chips are down and the road long and hard, as well as the enduring power of friendship and loyalty. Bill Flynn is a gifted storyteller and The Feathery is a rewarding read that I would recommend to anyone.
Rai Aren, co-author of Secret of the Sands
I thoroughly enjoyed The Feathery. It is a mystery/thriller that takes place in a setting of golf. What is most interesting and remarkable about The Feathery, is that there are two dramas occurring simultaneously, both equally riveting and quick-paced, within its pages. The book starts off with a glimpse into the past setting the stage for the first drama – an incredibly valuable golf artifact handed down through generations becomes a hotly sought-after prize by unscrupulous collectors willing to go to any lengths to secure it for their own private collections. This dangerous situation is woven through the experience of a young golfer who inherited the prized item, and as he guns for the British Open. The tension is heightened on two fronts – the struggle and challenges of the game itself, and the life and death stakes of the pursuit of one of golf’s long lost holy grails. Murder-for-hire, kidnapping, illegal gambling, double-crossing, seduction, and the desire and brave reach for a dream long dreamt and a deep sadness and emotional void to be filled are what await you within The Feathery’s pages.
The Feathery is also a touching story about the redemption of two young juvenile delinquents who suffer from the loss of their fathers at a young age and start acting out. Their futures could either be forfeit or saved. A caring detective and one of golf’s great players take the boys under their wings. All of the characters are believable. The situations they are in are believable, and the journey is an authentic and emotional one. The author, Bill Flynn, has an obvious love and respect for the time-honored game of golf. He has skillfully woven in truly interesting details about the history of the game as well as its technical aspects. I feel a newfound respect and admiration for this popular game.
I was completely charmed by The Feathery. It is an interesting, touching read that has left me with great fondness for the history it taught and the story it told. It is also a lesson in faith, believing in oneself, staying true to your path when the chips are down and the road long and hard, as well as the enduring power of friendship and loyalty. Bill Flynn is a gifted storyteller and The Feathery is a rewarding read that I would recommend to anyone.
Rai Aren, co-author of Secret of the Sands
April 18, 2009
Mix together some golf and its history, throw in some guns and knives, add a little gambling and romance and what do you get? The makings of a great novel. Bill Flynn's The Feathery is a must read for anyone who even knows what a putter is. Weather you're a golf aficionado who enjoys playing the dastardly game or are simply a fan of it, this book is for you. Get lost in yesteryears golfing world filled with feather-stuffed leather golf balls and hickory shafted Spoons and Mashies. Then fast forward to current times at the British Open as you follow Scott Beckman as he climbs from a childhood of trouble to making his dreams come true on the PGA tour while dodging a growing list of people who will stop at nothing to obtain possession of precious golf artifacts Scott has had bequeathed to him.
The Feathery is a well paced enjoyable read with a good mix of likeable and devious characters. The scenes described made me want more than ever to travel and visit the true home of golf. The Feathery is a fun read written by someone who obviously knows his subject.
If you like golf, you'll enjoy this book. If you know someone else who enjoys golf, The Feathery will make a great gift.
The Feathery is a well paced enjoyable read with a good mix of likeable and devious characters. The scenes described made me want more than ever to travel and visit the true home of golf. The Feathery is a fun read written by someone who obviously knows his subject.
If you like golf, you'll enjoy this book. If you know someone else who enjoys golf, The Feathery will make a great gift.
November 24, 2009
I love this book.
As I read the back cover, I noticed it dealt with golf, which I must admit is not my favorite sport, and I was a little scared. But this book is written in such a way that you learn the history of the sport without KNOWING you are learning history.
The feathery is a sought after memoriblia and by the end of the book you just want to reach through the pages and hold it in your hands. You have no choice but to be in awe of it and show it the respect it deserves. Anyone who is a sports fan can relate to the feeling of having that “hard to find” object.
The characters are likeable (or not) and you relate to each one of them as each of their personalities can be found in each of us. The descriptions of the rolling greens are great and even succeeded in making me want to take up golf.
I can’t image anyone not liking this book. While there were a couple of editing issues, they were minor enough to become almost invisible. The action is non-stop and never feels forced. Towards the end I didn’t want to continue reading because I didn’t want it to end.
This is a great gift book! A MUST buy!
As I read the back cover, I noticed it dealt with golf, which I must admit is not my favorite sport, and I was a little scared. But this book is written in such a way that you learn the history of the sport without KNOWING you are learning history.
The feathery is a sought after memoriblia and by the end of the book you just want to reach through the pages and hold it in your hands. You have no choice but to be in awe of it and show it the respect it deserves. Anyone who is a sports fan can relate to the feeling of having that “hard to find” object.
The characters are likeable (or not) and you relate to each one of them as each of their personalities can be found in each of us. The descriptions of the rolling greens are great and even succeeded in making me want to take up golf.
I can’t image anyone not liking this book. While there were a couple of editing issues, they were minor enough to become almost invisible. The action is non-stop and never feels forced. Towards the end I didn’t want to continue reading because I didn’t want it to end.
This is a great gift book! A MUST buy!
March 9, 2009
Golf, Murder, and Romance on the links.
Bill Flynn is a master at weaving a string of stories that intersect for a marvelous conclusion. The history of the feathery and the game of golf is well researched and told in a delightful manner. Throw in the suspense of murderous thugs, auctioneers, and millionaires who covet the feathery at any cost, and you have a seriously entertaining novel. The Feathery is an easy, entertaining read whether you are a golfer or just like a good whodunit. Well done Bill.
Bill Flynn is a master at weaving a string of stories that intersect for a marvelous conclusion. The history of the feathery and the game of golf is well researched and told in a delightful manner. Throw in the suspense of murderous thugs, auctioneers, and millionaires who covet the feathery at any cost, and you have a seriously entertaining novel. The Feathery is an easy, entertaining read whether you are a golfer or just like a good whodunit. Well done Bill.
January 27, 2009
If you're a golfer or golf historian, this story is a great read. Bill Flynn ties history to sport to greed and crime. Adventure and danger are all tied togetherin a slick plot. I recommend this book to anyone who likes golf, murder, and mystery.
Read
October 20, 2021Flynn introduces sinister types, romantic interests both simple and complicated, and keeps readers guessing as to how the mystery will end. For a fun ride through legendary golf courses, a touch of history and an intriguing yarn to boot, we recommend that you pick up THE FEATHERY.
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2021/10/19/an-ir...
Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2021/10/19/an-ir...
August 20, 2024
I loved this book. Excellent read for people who love golf and mystery.
August 24, 2025
Local Author. Learned some history of golf through this novel. Thanks!
January 31, 2009
Bill Flynn’s “The Feathery” is a very fast read. Not only is it well crafted, but it is written wonderfully. Many people read books to “escape,” and this book helps the reader to do just that – whether it be to 18th Century Scotland, modern day California, modern day England and Scotland and New York.
I am by no means considered an expert in the world of golf, let alone the history of golf balls, yet I was absolutely able to dive into this story to the point where life would interrupt my reading. This book’s focus is not just golf – it is a true “whodunit” coupled with a “whatshouldIdo” type of story, with an interesting twist - with the world of golf as the landscape.
One may think by the book’s cover that “The Feathery” is just about a type of golf ball, crafted by hand in the 1800s. It is far beyond that. “The Feathery” incorporates greed, love, loss, survival, and it’s relation to the world of gambling, antique collecting and pursuing one’s dreams. Right from the start, the reader begins to “root” for the characters.
I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and look forward to Mr. Flynn’s next novel.
J.R. Reardon
Author, “Confidential Communications”
I am by no means considered an expert in the world of golf, let alone the history of golf balls, yet I was absolutely able to dive into this story to the point where life would interrupt my reading. This book’s focus is not just golf – it is a true “whodunit” coupled with a “whatshouldIdo” type of story, with an interesting twist - with the world of golf as the landscape.
One may think by the book’s cover that “The Feathery” is just about a type of golf ball, crafted by hand in the 1800s. It is far beyond that. “The Feathery” incorporates greed, love, loss, survival, and it’s relation to the world of gambling, antique collecting and pursuing one’s dreams. Right from the start, the reader begins to “root” for the characters.
I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and look forward to Mr. Flynn’s next novel.
J.R. Reardon
Author, “Confidential Communications”
November 2, 2010
Thirteen-year-old Scott Beckman and his best friend, Matt, are headed for a life of crime and jail unless something drastic happens to change their lives. Detective Kyle Ross sends them to Sandy McNair, an eighty-five-year-old golf instructor with a reputation for turning kids around. Through the game of golf, Scott improves his life by developing a passion and talent strong enough to make him a contender for major tournaments. When Sandy dies, he leaves Scott a valuable feathery golf ball made by a relative in 1849. Scott soon discovers that some collectors will do anything to acquire this heirloom.
The Feathery is a touching story of a young man’s struggle to find his place in the world. It’s about loss, passion, and second chances. Author Bill Flyyn tells the story in a simple, straightforward manner. As a mystery author, I would have loved more conflict and tension during some of the crime scenes, yet Flynn certainly brings these aspects to crucial moments at tournaments.
I’m not a golfer, but Flynn’s descriptions about various aspects of the game were interesting enough to make me wonder if I should try it one day. If you’re a golfing enthusiast you’ll enjoy this book and, if not, you might be by the end of the tale.
The Feathery is a touching story of a young man’s struggle to find his place in the world. It’s about loss, passion, and second chances. Author Bill Flyyn tells the story in a simple, straightforward manner. As a mystery author, I would have loved more conflict and tension during some of the crime scenes, yet Flynn certainly brings these aspects to crucial moments at tournaments.
I’m not a golfer, but Flynn’s descriptions about various aspects of the game were interesting enough to make me wonder if I should try it one day. If you’re a golfing enthusiast you’ll enjoy this book and, if not, you might be by the end of the tale.
December 14, 2009
I wasn't sure whether the golf/thriller combination would work when I first purchased this book, but decided to give it a shot based on the reviews. I'm happy to say it lived up to its ratings. It was an interesting mix of history and fiction. Well written. Thanks Mr. Flynn for the wonderful story.
November 12, 2011
The worst book I have ever read. As a golfer it insulted my intelligence. The over explanation of simple golf knowledge was unbearable and unbelievable.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews