Young Girl Is Left At A Hotel Tahoe Detective Owen McKenna is heading to a meeting when he finds a lost, deaf girl. McKenna learns that the girl, Camille Dexter, is 8 years old. Her grandfather, Charlie Dexter, left her to wait for him, but he has disappeared. The Girl's Grandfather Is Found Dead McKenna calls Sergeant Jack Santiago. They discover Dexter's body crushed by a recently-cut tree. The cause of death appears to be suicide. But as McKenna investigates, the details don't make sense, and he learns of other apparent suicides that are suspicious. McKenna's Girlfriend And The Young Girl Are Almost Killed McKenna's girlfriend Street Casey is driving with Camille Dexter when someone runs them off a steep mountain road. They miraculously survive. A Killer Is After The Girl When McKenna finds a common thread to all the deaths, that connection leads to the girl, the only person in the group who's still alive. McKenna thinks he knows the killer's identity, the meanest, most twisted man he's ever met. But before McKenna can find him, the man kidnaps Camille...
AUTHOR NOTE When Tahoe Detective Owen McKenna finds a lost girl, 8-year-old Camille Dexter, he doesn't realize that her grandfather and only guardian has been murdered and a killer has been hired to dump Camille's body in the lake. McKenna also doesn't know that Camille has no relatives or friends because she and her grandfather have been living in his camper. Complicating the situation is that Camille is deaf. Brilliant but deaf.
Camille's predicament will break your heart even as you fall in love with her grit and determination.
Todd Borg and his wife moved from Minnesota to Lake Tahoe in 1990. After his fourth Tahoe novel, he sold his business to write full time.
In addition to winning the Ben Franklin Award for Best Mystery of the Year, Todd Borg's Owen McKenna mysteries have been chosen for Top 5 Mystery lists by the prestigious Library Journal, and by Mystery News Reviewer G. Wedgwood. He's won Best Mystery and Best Thriller honors from the Bay Area Independent Publishers Association and received Best New Fiction accolades from libraries. His novels have also received starred reviews and raves in major trade journals and newspapers across the country.
Todd Borg and his wife live on Lake Tahoe's South Shore.
We are greeted in Todd Borg’s newest as a logger is cutting a tree that falls the wrong way, and a tree that he doesn’t get away from fast enough.
Owen McKenna happened to be in the area and saw a young girl looking as if she were lost.
He approached her and finds out she is waiting for her grandfather. We find out that she is the granddaughter of the unlucky logger.
Street takes the young girl, Camille, in until they find out what happened to her grandfather.
I always enjoy visiting with Owen McKenna and seeing how he solves the cases while we learn something new. We also see how he “takes care of“ criminals - there is some violence.
Tahoe Moon treats us to a lesson in tree cutting, sign language, skateboarding, and also gives us a lesson on what someone can do with catalytic converters.
This book is another amazing read filled with Todd Borg’s master storytelling skills and one that keeps you glued to the pages as McKenna does his investigations.
The ending will have you flying through the pages as Owen McKenna is flying on his skateboard as he tries to catch the “bad guy.”
Brilliant, very knowledgeable author.
Todd’s books are always educational and have a pull-you-in storyline.
Readers always learn about some sport, something literary, something obscure, and always something very interesting.
Todd's fans won’t want to miss this one.
This book was given to me by the author for an honest review.
I could barely finish the book because of the tears. Well done, Mr. Borg. Well done! As usual though, I was wrong about killer. One of these days though.
On a personal note, I have a collection of moons so this was a little more special.
When you've got your hands on a new Owen McKenna thriller, you know you're in for a few hours of sheer reading pleasure. Author Todd Borg has taken one of the most beautiful places on Planet Earth-- Lake Tahoe-- and peopled it with one of the best cast of characters in all of crime fiction. When you read Tahoe Moon and watch Owen McKenna being interviewed by a company that wants to brand a line of fashion guns and accessories because their marketing experts know how much Americans love their Second Amendment, you may not know what to expect. Long-time fans of Owen McKenna know exactly what is going to happen, and they couldn't agree with him more.
I always learn something when I read one of Borg's books. (Well, usually it's more than one something.) Tahoe Moon has "forensic tree cutting", animal intelligence, the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the Mexican poet, Natalia Toledo Paz, and ghost writers. But no matter how much I learn or how much I enjoy Borg's fast-paced mysteries, it's the characters who always bring me back for more.
Once again, childless, single Owen McKenna shows he has a knack for dealing with children, and in this book we see that his (also childless) girlfriend, Street, does, too. Borg's adult characters are excellent and why I am a devoted follower of this series, but there have been some remarkable child characters as well, and Camille Dexter is one of the best. Readers' hearts immediately go out to this young deaf girl, and it soon becomes clear how gifted she is. Yes, folks, she is kidnapped, and if you find yourself becoming incensed over the topic of child endangerment, you can calm down a bit. I don't think I've ever seen an author handle a child abduction scene better than Todd Borg.
If I had my way, we'd all be Todd Borg fans, the author would be a multi-millionaire, and he'd write about Owen and Street and Spot forever. So if I am to have my way, I need you all to get your hands on these books. I would suggest starting at the beginning with Tahoe Deathfall, but if beginning a (so far) twenty-volume series makes your eyes bug out, get Tahoe Moon and give it a try. If I'm to be successful in my quest, I know that it all starts with baby steps.
I heard about this author and book from an Indie bookstore and I'm so happy I purchased this book. This is actually book #20 in the Owen McKenna series but not having read his other books, I understood the main character's background and that of the other characters. There was mystery, suspense, friendship, a deaf character, the love of animals, and I really enjoyed the landscape of the entire Lake Tahoe region as well as the coastal city of Carmel. I enjoyed this one so much I ordered the first two books in this series!
Todd Borg's "Tahoe Moon" takes the usual cast of characters on another fascinating exploration of forensics in the investigation of a suspicious death of a tree-faller in the search for justice for the lone family member left behind, his 8-year-old deaf granddaughter. Owen McKenna and his Harlequin Great Dane sidekick, Spot, remain true to form, dogged in sniffing out clues wherever they lead, taking them down trails with many twists and turns, and even a high-speed skateboard chase.
Owen's girlfriend, Street, and best friend, Diamond, along with other regulars, provide invaluable assistance, each in their own ways. Owen's inner dialogue is amusingly endowed with wit and dry humor, which often comes through in his conversations with his friends, and occasionally enemies and suspects.
I sometimes wonder, "Do I enjoy Borg's "Tahoe" mystery thrillers because I personnally know so many of the locations and scenery he describes around the lake, Bay Area, and Central Coast?" (yes), or would I enjoy these mysteries had I never been to these places? I read over twenty mysteries a year, and conclude with an emphatic 'Yes!' Borg always creates a fascinating read which explores varied art, musical, social and cultural themes in the development of the story. Each book stands on it's own, but a real officianado will want to read every single one of Todd Borg's "Tahoe Mystery Series".
Todd Borg is a different author when it comes to mysteries. Most mystery writers are action oriented or concerned with chasing the evil people who commit the crimes. Todd does both of these things somewhere in each book, but most of the book is about people, frequently children with unusual problems. He does a wonderful job of introducing us to people who have problems most of us never have to deal with.
Tahoe Moon is about an 8 year old girl who is orphaned when her grandfather is killed by a tree he is cutting down. Except he isn’t her grandfather and he didn’t cut down the tree. To complicate the situation even more, the girl is deaf. As he does in all his books, Todd develops the characters far more fully than most authors and introduces a number of characters and twists that make it impossible for us to determine who are the people doing all the evil things. When things finally start resolving themselves at the end of the book you cannot put it down as Owen McKenna, the detective in all the Tahoe mysteries, comes close to death as he saves the little girl from two men who intend to kill her.
This is a delightful novel, and you will be startled by the revelations and change of direction at the end. It will be interesting to see where McKenna’s life goes with the changes introduced in the last twenty pages.
Like the previous 19 volumes, Todd Borg's latest in the "Owen McKenna" series is set in Lake Tahoe. While it is best enjoyed after reading the series, please, buy "Tahoe Moon" as soon as possible. This teen-friendly and adult-thrilling story is a "Tahoe adventure vacation" with friends. "Tahoe Moon" shows that Borg's literary style is evolving without any need to improve, because he never lapses into formulaic characters, settings, or plot. "Tahoe Moon" leads us through twists and turns, subtle moments, beat-downs, and satisfying retaliation that kept me entranced, chapter after chapter. You may then want to pick up "Tahoe Deathfall", the first in the series, and enjoy progressive character development with a few references to past plots, and frequent use of Tahoe's spectacular geography. You will be attracted to former SFPD officer Owen McKenna, his complex sweetheart, Street, the heroic great dane, Spot, and several recurring law enforcement characters. "Tahoe Moon" introduces us to a disabled little girl who will inspire justified empathy. Words fail me, as his writing reached a new four dimensional level. Todd Borg is a talented wordsmith who is willing to earn your loyalty.
Each new addition to my Todd Borg mystery collection brings great anticipation. What will this story be about? What subjects has he thoroughly researched that I'll learn about, and makes this another book so hard to put down? I will often avoid reading another chapter so this mystery will last longer. And I'm always sad when I come to the last page. TAHOE MOON was no exception. Owen happens to notice a little girl walking along the road carrying her skateboard as he drives to an appointment at a high end hotel. Why does she look so sad? Where are her parents? After his meeting he sees her still alone outside the hotel. He decides to stop and this leads to his next investigation into the suisides...or is it murders...of several people, including the little girl's grandfather. You'll have to read the book to learn what happens. You won't be disappointed. If you become addicted to Owen McKenna mysteries don't say I didn't warn you.
Todd Borg is an amazing storyteller, and his newest Owen McKenna Mystery Thriller (Tahoe Moon) is no exception. Once you start reading it, you won't want to put it down.
Tahoe Moon includes Borg's usual characters as well as a small child (8 years old) who is orphaned by the only family member she has known since birth and the suspicious circumstances surrounding his demise, as well as other suspicious deaths in the area.
Owen's investigative mind searches for who is behind all the suspicious deaths as well as the death of the child's family member. Borg also has a remarkable ability to make you feel you are there witnessing the action as it occurs.
The ending of the story was a big surprise and expresses the heartwarming compassion both Owen and Street have for the orphaned child.
Looking forward to the next Owen McKenna Mystery Thriller!
Once again Todd Borg has written a five star winner. Having now read all 20 of his Tahoe series, I suppose it's safe to say that I'm a fan. Certainly one of the advantages of reading a series is that the reader gets to know the characters. In this novel, Mr. Borg has introduced a most appealing character in the person of an 8 year old totally deaf girl who is now an orphan. As a pediatrician I was particularly intrigued by not only the character but by the author's understanding of her deafness. I will find it most interesting to follow this young girl's progress in subsequent novels. However, that was only one aspect of the appeal of this well crafted novel which can successfully be read as a stand alone.
Todd Borg has another winner in Tahoe Moon. When a little girl's grandfather leaves her in a hotel parking lot and Owen McKenna finds her, you know things are going to get interesting. With the help of his girlfriend Street Casey and his Harlequin Great Dane Spot, McKenna tries to reunite the two. Murder intervenes and McKenna must try to solve a case the police consider a suicide. Talk about a tough day at work!
As always, Borg brings in fascinating characters and facts to populate the story and uses beautiful Lake Tahoe to prime advantage as the setting. The people, animals, scenery and events will delight the reader. Borg's work is addictive.
Oh my gosh!!! I’ve been reading Todd Borg books for years. The stories are like coming back to your ol’ cabin in the woods. You are familiar with the scenery, used to getting there and back and have a warm glow when staying there. It is comfort. The Owen McKenna series feels the same way. It is like “Cheers….except you know everyone’s name.” Though you can read it as a stand alone book, having read the series really brings the characters to life. And my gosh did life happen in Tahoe Moon! I’m not going to spoil it for you, but something wonderfully unexpected happens. Todd you really out did yourself. All I can say is “WELL DONE!!!!”
Todd Borg has written another great thriller with his latest book, Tahoe Moon. Reading about Owen McKenna, Street Casey and of course Spot in this, number 20, in the “Tahoe” series, is like visiting with old friends as a mystery unwinds in the beautiful setting of Lake Tahoe. A deaf girl being stalked and a nasty killer make Tahoe Moon so exciting I couldn’t put it down. Right up until the end, I thought I knew who it was…and then the plot twisted. A great read!
If you haven’t read any of his previous books, I highly recommend them as well.
This newest Tahoe mystery starts a little oddly, Owen is being hit up by a fashion designer to be a model/bodyguard for 2nd amendment themed fashion? Needless to say Owen is not really into it, but this weird encounter ends up involving Owen and Street in what becomes one of the most life changing cases of their lives.
Todd Borg delivers once again with a great story, characters old (revisiting noth Tahoe Hit and Tahoe Jade) and new. Cannot wait until the next one.
Do you like a good mystery, a great cast of characters, all taking place at a spectacular High Sierra lake...well, then I suggest checking out Todd Borg's Owen McKenna series. I always recommend to new readers to read book #1, Tahoe Deathfall, first. Once you've met the characters you can read them in any order.
I'm not here to tell you the plot. That's up to you, the reader. I can tell you that you are in for a ride and you might learn something new along the way. #20 didn't let me down.
Much like John McDonald’s Travis McGee, Mr Borg primary character Owen McKenna is a knight. He does things because it is the right thing to do. He introduces or reminds the reader to the Lake Tahoe, one of the most beautiful spots on earth.
Every book has a theme which revolves around intellectual area like a deaf girl, or ghost artists but also those things that drive people like greed, revenge etc.
I always like how Todd Borg pops to the bad guy in an unexpected way. I have been involved with deaf people for 12 years so my connection with Camille was great. The twist and turns were worth the read. Never wanting to stop but continue until the end. What an interesting way Grandpa was Dad. I live in Carson City so Tahoe is at my back door, just like Minden and Reno. Yep, my stomping grounds.
I’ve read the entire series, bought the first at The Red Hut on 50, and look forward every year to a new one. Just want to say I love the direction you took with this one- I think Street’s character becomes much more multi-dimensional with what you’ve done. Thanks fire many hours of reading pleasure- many of them under Jeffrey pines while watching that “blue plate”.
Todd Borg is a consistent storyteller whose hero, Owen McKenna, dashes around the very familiar places at Lake Tahoe, Northern Nevada and Truckee as he works to solve the latest murder. He gives excellent hints as to who the bad guy/gal is, but try as I might, I couldn't get this one. I love reading Borg because as a kid I spent t every summer at the !ake and haunted most the areas he describes in his books. Thanks again, Todd.
I am a huge fan of Todd Borg, so probably not a surprise I’d give 5 stars. As usual, once started, I can’t put the book down. Todd did a great job this time of not letting the reader even have a hint who the murderer was - my favorite kind of mystery. And, as usual, I always learn new things from the book. I would highly recommend this book to mystery readers and those who love Lake Tahoe!
I've been reading Todd Borg since his first book and I look forward to seeing what Spot and Owen are up to. They are likeable characters and you know there will be a good ending. Tahoe Moon featured a deaf girl and of course when Todd sees her he can't just leave her. He, along with his girlfriend and his other police friends dig into her past and figure out how to do the best for her. It was a very satisfying book and I can't wait for the next adventure.
Having read several of Borg’s previous thrillers, I was expecting another “Diamond,” and was pleasantly surprised that this one outshone the rest. I found myself clenching my fists as Owen McKenna—equal parts intellectual, artist, musician, tough SOB, and softie—meted out his impeccable justice. This one had me on the edge of my seat—and an IPA at my side.
After an uncharacteristic slow beginning, Tahoe Moon settles into Borg's typical fast-paced, keep-em guessing mystery. I just wish I could savor these books instead of inhaling them. Now, I have to wait until next August for the next Owen & Spot adventure.
He even proof reads. I love this author. I first got stared reading his books when my sister and I
Found them in Tahoe City. I've read them all now. The books bring another element to the wonderful scenery of Lake Tahoe. It is a real place with a real history in which Todd Borg pours his characters. can hardly wait for the next book.
Todd spins a complex tale about bad guys and the defenseless in my favorite locale. Kicks ass on dirtbags and helps the defenseless. Wisely doesn't delve into the social decay of my former home state of California. (That would be too depressing)! ):
I always love Todd’s books. This was a excellent story with lots of twists and turns! It’s always heartbreaking when you hear a story about an orphaned child. Lots of very evil villains too. I love that Owen always gets the upper hand even if his injured in the process! And of course Spot is a great source of entertainment.
There was so much new information in this book about things I never knew, and never knew that I needed to know. But that's the way Todd Borg writes. He doesn't just weave the stories, he teaches. The storyline was excellent, as always, with a fantastic finish.
I truly enjoyed reading a mystery where the author can weave a story so compelling that it is hard to put down the book—Todd Borg has done that in his new book Tahoe Moon. In spite of the mystery and unpleasant people Todd was still able to inject some humor that made me chuckle. Enjoyable reading and a memorable ending. I was sorry to see it end.
As I read this book it almost felt like I was back at Lake Tahoe. I loved the characters and the book really drew me in and I had to finish it as quickly as possible. I’ve been in the locality’s described in the book and it was like going back (almost). Very exciting conflicts also.