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Stewart Hoag #14

The Girl Who Took What She Wanted

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In this new installment of the Edgar award-winning Stewart Hoag mystery series, the ghostwriting sleuth investigates a trail of murder amidst Hollywood’s rich and famous. Stewart “Hoagy” Hoag hasn’t written any fiction since his debut novel rocked the literary world of the 1980s and then left him with a paralyzing case of writer’s block. Since then, he’s been reduced to ghostwriting celebrity memoirs. But his newest project could have him diving back into the world of fiction in a way he never imagined. Nikki Dymtryk is Hollywood’s hottest reality TV star, known for her wild party lifestyle and prolific sexual conquests across the music, film, and sports industries. But when the ratings for her show Being Nikki begin to drop, the Dymtryk family engineers a new plan to keep Nikki in the limelight: reinventing the young star as a bestselling author. Nikki’s team hires Hoagy to ghostwrite a steamy romance novel showcasing the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood elite. Reluctantly, Hoagy flies out to L.A. with his trusty basset hound Lulu to see what he’s gotten himself into with Nikki. But when he finally meets the starlet, she’s nothing like the aimless, airhead image she presents to the media. This project may just be the key to getting Hoagy’s creative juices flowing again―and staying in L.A. might also give him a chance at getting back together with his actress ex-wife, Merilee. But spending time with Nikki isn’t all parties and poolside lounging. As Hoagy gets closer to the young woman, he begins to uncover the Dymtryk family’s dark secrets. Secrets that are worth killing for.

320 pages, Hardcover

Published March 14, 2023

34 people are currently reading
124 people want to read

About the author

David Handler

53 books262 followers
AKA Russell Andrews (with Peter Gethers)

David Handler, who began his career in New York as a journalist, was born and raised in Los Angeles and published two highly acclaimed novels about growing up there, Kiddo and Boss, before resorting to a life of crime fiction.

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5 stars
81 (28%)
4 stars
116 (40%)
3 stars
68 (23%)
2 stars
16 (5%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
5,977 reviews67 followers
August 14, 2023
One of Stewart Hoag's earliest cases developed when the once-successful novelist, now clean of his drug habit, is asked to ghostwrite a steamy novel for a pre-internet influencer, sex-kitten Nikki, who is murdered before he can start the job. Despite a plethora of suspects, there are red flags that identify the motive and culprit for the reader long before Hoagy catches on to the terrible truth. Despite all his usual banter and the presence of basset hound Lulu (and Hoagy's ex, beautiful actress Merilee Nash, the waste of talent and life make this a rather downbeat tale.
Profile Image for Kori Potenzone.
891 reviews87 followers
February 20, 2023
Hold on to your seats folks, this book is about to take you on a wild ride.

The Girl Who Took What She Wanted

I had to read, then reread the title a few times. What was this going to be about? Was the title clever or corny? I reflected back on reading The Girl With A Clock for a Heart and remembered having the same feeling of unpredictability . What I can tell you is that I was not let down the first time a title stumped me and I definitely was not let down this time either...

David Handler is not a new author but has actually made a HUGE name for himself. Handler wrote both Kiddo (1987) and Boss (1988) using his own childhood as his muse. Handler also wrote the Stewart Hoag Mystery series that has become a world wide sensation.

Now, back to The Girl Who Took What She Wanted

This is also a book that falls into the Stewart Hoag Mystery series and as a huge fan of all previous work I was left completely satisfied with this most recent installment. My favorite thing about this series is the quirky characters that Handler creates. Although this is a mystery, I do always find a bit of humor with these books. The adventures of Hoagy have plagued my brain for years that I almost discuss him as if he was a real life person when talking to others.

Yes, they look at me quite confused BUT when I meet a fellow "Hoagy" fan, we can find the same humor in this fun character.

If you are a huge fan of the series, you know you do not want to miss out on The Girl Who Took What She Wanted and if you are new to David Handler, you can read this as a standalone but what fun is that?

I highly recommend any and all work by Handler.

Teaser:

Stewart “Hoagy” Hoag hasn’t written any fiction since his debut novel rocked the literary world of the 1980s and then left him with a paralyzing case of writer’s block. Since then, he’s been reduced to ghostwriting celebrity memoirs. But his newest project could have him diving back into the world of fiction in a way he never imagined.


Nikki Dymtryk is Hollywood’s hottest reality TV star, known for her wild party lifestyle and prolific sexual conquests across the music, film, and sports industries. But when the ratings for her show Being Nikki begin to drop, the Dymtryk family engineers a new plan to keep Nikki in the limelight: reinventing the young star as a bestselling author. Nikki’s team hires Hoagy to ghostwrite a steamy romance novel showcasing the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood elite.


Reluctantly, Hoagy flies out to L.A. with his trusty basset hound Lulu to see what he’s gotten himself into with Nikki. But when he finally meets the starlet, she’s nothing like the aimless, airhead image she presents to the media. This project may just be the key to getting Hoagy’s creative juices flowing again—and staying in L.A. might also give him a chance at getting back together with his actress ex-wife, Merilee. But spending time with Nikki isn’t all parties and poolside lounging. As Hoagy gets closer to the young woman, he begins to uncover the Dymtryk family’s dark secrets. Secrets that are worth killing for.
190 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2023
I give this four stars because I love Hoagy and Lulu. Coming back to them is comfortable and soothing. The mystery and such gets a 2 star rating from me. Perhaps I’m feeling jaded by my recent reads, but I am tired of stories about

Readers deserve better than these trite stories and unrealistic characterizations. This isn’t even the stories of the women.

This author needs to step away from these storylines if he can’t do better with them.
Profile Image for Rick Rapp.
865 reviews5 followers
September 12, 2025
I really like Handler's voice in this book. it's sort of an homage to the hard-boiled detectives of the 40s, crossed with a brilliant but troubled writer. The characters are dysfunctional and stereotypical, but it all works. There were a few twists here, but Handler didn't use any cheap tricks to settle the tale. I especially enjoyed the fish loving basset hound with killer breath. Made me laugh several times. Thumbs up.
Profile Image for Margie Bunting.
859 reviews41 followers
October 16, 2022
I was enjoying the latest in the long-running Stewart Hoag Mystery series for the first half of the book. "Hoagy" is a foppish writer whose first book was a huge success, but when he couldn't follow up with a second, his life spiraled downward. He became caught up in drugs and alcohol and his marriage with superstar actress Merilee failed. Since then he has made a living ghostwriting celebrity memoirs and is on better terms with ex-wife Merrilee, so when he is presented with the possibility of ghostwriting a series of romances for wild child and reality series star Nikki, he jumps at the chance to start writing fiction again.

So far, so good. But the second half felt like a different book altogether. Although the Hoag books are categorized as mysteries, I felt this one would have been much better had the author stuck with the original premise. Hoagy and Nikki would have made an interesting team. Instead, the focus of the story was on a murder and on the slowly revealed secrets of Nikki's family. The resolution seemed clumsy and melodramatic, and the murderer was not a surprise. I also don't understand why the story was presented as almost a prequel--something that happened at least five years earlier (late 1980s). TV reality shows weren't really a thing in those days, by the way.

The things I did like about the book are the same as those of earlier books in the series: Hoagy's adorable basset hound and constant companion, Lulu, the light-hearted descriptions of Hoagy's life and his clothing, Hoagy's refusal to be a doormat, and his on-again, off-again relationship with Merrilee.

My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book
Profile Image for Gretchen.
20 reviews1 follower
October 12, 2022
The Girl Who Took What She Wanted
By David Handler
Official release date: February 21, 2023
⭐️Rating 8/10⭐️

✉️check trigger warnings before reading✉️

I really enjoyed this book, the title and cover drew me into this one. Nikki give me Kardashian vibes, and the story is relatable to a lot of celebrities story, especially women in Hollywood and how you have to succeed. Nikki is a character that you want to know more of beyond the surface, and when you think you’ll learn more and get into her novel process 💥twist💥 The last chapter gave me a tearful eye, but was a good closing to the story. I surly recommend this book, but make sure you check the TW before reading
Profile Image for Michael.
56 reviews6 followers
October 16, 2022
I've enjoyed reading the others in this series that I've read but I think I enjoyed this one a bit more. I've always been a fan of Raymond Chandler and Ross MacDonald and it seems to me that this book updates the characters from The Big Sleep to what they might be if Chandler were writing them today and puts them into a Ross MacDonald-like story. We'll done!
Profile Image for Jeanne.
1,144 reviews8 followers
November 16, 2022
Amazing read. Not a world shattering thriller but instead an involved 'what really happening novdl.
It's all about the writing. Not a book you ever want to gloss over skip a page or stop reading. This author's voice in phenomenal in ever character and every situation
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
Profile Image for BRT.
1,839 reviews
March 30, 2023
I really wanted to make this one last but it's too hard not to devour the books in this series. Hoagy and LuLu are back with a story from his early days of ghostwriting. Hoagy's unapologetically blunt and honest attitude are a nice counterpoint to the lunacies of culture that he deals with. He takes on a client who is one of the early "reality" stars and uncovers more reality than he'd like.
20 reviews6 followers
July 17, 2023
This maybe be one of the worst “mysteries” I’ve ever read. The only character I actually cared about was Lulu the dog. This was the least tension filled mystery of all. Like if Mr. Rogers had a mystery about him where everything just comes together so easily to make him look like a genius. First and last of this series I’ll be reading.
Profile Image for Elise Kind.
159 reviews8 followers
April 2, 2023
Stewart “Hoagy” Hoag is a novelist with writers block. His beautiful film star wife has left him and his ounce flourishing career has reached the skids. Hoping to get a ghost writing assignment in Los Angeles, Hoagy and his ever present Basset Hound LuLu head for the coast to meet the wild teen idol he’s to write about.
As Hoagy starts to meet the young stars family, he begins to uncover the dark secrets of the family. Why is sister Lisa a recluse and why is star Nikki such a wild child. What’s with these divorced and remarried parents and their lovers.
All of these events come together with the murder of wild child Nikki. Who would want Nikki dead - one of her family or someone who works for the family.
This is the latest in David Handlers mystery series with “washed up” mystery writer and the ever wonderful Basset LuLu.
A fun series, full of interesting twists and turns in the plot.
Profile Image for Thea.
Author 1 book6 followers
April 6, 2023
Full discloser: I love David Handler's writing. Got pulled in by 'The Girl with Kaleidoscope Eyes" which was apparently his newest (Hogey) Stewart Hoag book in years. I'm the kind of reader authors and publishers love because if I like you, I'll hunt down all your books and read them in order --if it's a series.
I enjoyed this book immensely but I must say, it seemed to just fly by. I would have liked more--although I can't say exactly what. Perhaps a deeper dive into the family and more about the interesting mix of antag-protaganist character.
But, to be fair, I had insomnia and devoured it in about 3 hours. No matter what my preferences are--Handler is worth it. I also enjoy his Berger/ Mitry series. If you're new to Handler-- do try to read them in order. It won't ruin the story but the characters do grow and change. Getting to know the worlds they live in along with the people or unique companions in the case of LuLu--is helpful.
Profile Image for Karin Carlson.
392 reviews14 followers
December 28, 2022
In this new installment of the Edgar award-winning Stewart Hoag mystery series, the ghostwriting sleuth investigates a trail of murder amidst Hollywood’s rich and famous. Stewart “Hoagy” Hoag hasn’t written any fiction since his debut novel rocked the literary world of the 1980s and then left him with a paralyzing case of writer’s block. Since then, he’s been reduced to ghostwriting celebrity memoirs. But his newest project could have him diving back into the world of fiction in a way he never imagined. I’ve been reading this series from the very first and always look forward to a new adventure with Hoagy. This story is classic Hoagy all the way with a lot of other really quirky and interesting characters thrown in along the way. Looking forward to the next adventure and hoping it won’t be long. Thank you NetGalley for the advanced readers copy for review.
661 reviews7 followers
March 25, 2023
The newest book in the Stewart Hoag mystery series by David Handler didn’t disappoint. The Girl Who Took What She Wanted is a romp through Hollywood with Hoagy and his basset hound, Lulu, as your tour guides. After an epic fall from grace (writer’s block, divorce, and addiction) Hoagy is trying to make his way back. Ghostwriting has been his salvation but when his agent recommends him for a new project, he has some reservations. Ghostwriting romance novels for a reality star isn’t what he expected. But with the promise of a healthy paycheck and the possibility that this could re-start his own writing, Hoagy agrees.

What an entertaining book. It has all the characteristics of previous books in the series – quirky and interesting characters, a good plot and dialogue, and a good sense of humor. I thoroughly enjoyed Mr Handler’s new book. Spending time with Hoagy and Lulu is always a pleasure.
Profile Image for Ann.
6,045 reviews85 followers
April 30, 2023
This is book 14 in the Stewart Hoag Mystery series. It can be read as a stand alone as I have not read any of the previous books. I plan to rectify that in the near future. Stewart had a blockbuster novel in the 80's and has had writer's block every since. His marriage died and he is broke. He is offered the job of writing a romance novel for a Hollywood star who wants to reinvent herself. He is surprised that the star isn't at all like her public image and takes the job. When she is murdered he insists on helping find the killer. With his best friend, Basset Hound, Lulu at his side they manage to stay alive during the investigation. A good story with well developed characters.
253 reviews1 follower
March 22, 2025
Confused where all the humor and funny bits are .I saw not one .

I finished chapter 4 and so bloody boring ..I doubt I'll continue . I did skim.the end and the murder reason ? Same tired cliched boring reason .

Also this book is barely a mystery .So much repetitive crsp about his writing and boring stuff w his ex .

The way he writes the character is so effeminate too ,

Hoagy is an unlikable pompous judgemental ass who is not anywhere as intelligent as he thinks of himself.

Drinking game :You could get a good buzz every time he mentions how he was a wonderkund in the writing world and his drug use wha wha .


And all the useless minute details about his clothes and anyone's clothes and food dropping brand names ..so annoying..guess there was a word quota .

I actually read last 2 chapters ..stil a pompous unintelligent ass .

I was hoping this would actually be amusing so I'd have a new series to try..ie start from book 1 ..but NOPE .I saw what happened saw the killer .still bored .still not
one line worth a chuckle.

Ps: lookin at reviews for previous books,, I see they actually wernt funny or Interesting either; glad I'm passing .

Bemused how this series lasted so long
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews167 followers
February 28, 2023
Blessed be Netgalley for the authors and the series I discovered, Stewart Hoag amongst them.
This is means this is one of my favorite mystery series, that I loved the humour and the quirky characters.
This is one of my favorite in this series, a solid mystery full of twists and highly entertaining.
The historical background is vivid and the storytelling excellent.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for Deb.
1,079 reviews
April 27, 2023
Hoag is hired to ghost write a steamy romance novel for a reality show 23-year old woman, Nikki, whose reality show was cancelled after 3 years. Nikki is a money maker for her agent so her agent wants to keep her in the limelight. Hoag flies out to LA; meets Nikki and agrees to write the novel for her. Nikki ends up being murdered; Hoag helps Lt. Lamp investigate the murder, uncovers family secrets and solves the murder.
441 reviews3 followers
August 3, 2023
Did I read this one already? Certainly seems that way since the equation was followed to such a close degree that it could have been one of his other books with a different ending (actually 3 endings). He actually goes back in time to do this book so it can get even closer to some of his previous work.
I like his writing but could not get over the average of liking it to help the star rating. Too bad, maybe I was just had too much anticipation.
Profile Image for Race Bannon.
1,273 reviews8 followers
October 11, 2023
Ok this one was improved over the last one in this series
('The Lady in the Silver Cloud'). I will say I am getting
tired though of Lulu as an accent protagonist and at
Hoagie's superior air, but the plot was pretty good.
I was sort of able to figure out what happened and
who the guilty party was, but the additional ending
was a bit of a bummer.
Overall, still recommended if you like the Hoagie series.
Profile Image for Julie.
896 reviews8 followers
December 16, 2023
In the End, Touching and Poignant

Handler never leaves you dangling. And he keeps the surprises coming as revelations are made about the murder, the murderer, and the cause of the murder. Hoagy is acerbic and funny, as usual, and Lulu is a steady presence as she is in all the Stewart Hoag books. I’m glad Handler realized that he needn’t kill off Lulu just because a dog’s lifespan is shorter than the times covered in the series. I hope he can keep on writing Hoagy mysteries.
595 reviews
April 9, 2023
3.5 Was a bit confused at the start before I realized this was a flash back book of sorts, as his life with Merilee didn’t match up to his last book. I liked the mystery although I guessed why early on, but because I like the writing I wanted to see how Hoagie got there. Lulu,the wonder dog, was amazing as usual though I am surprised she likes 9 lives cat food, my cat won’t touch it.
Profile Image for Brenda Freeman.
970 reviews21 followers
November 4, 2023
I love this series. You never know what’s next in the Hoagy and Lulu stories. In this case reality tv and it’s star run into trouble. She can’t write and the previous ghost writer interviews ended badly. Will Hoagy pass the test? Hoagy also gets a call from his ex-wife who also happens to be in town.
511 reviews4 followers
November 8, 2023
Back to ghostwriting

Hoagy is back ghostwriting, only this time it's a steamy novel, supposedly written by wild girl Nikki. He's in LA and who should pop up but Merilee. They reconcile and make Lulu a happy pup. But the story of Nikki is not a happy one. This is a good story with a sad ending.
47 reviews
July 25, 2025
All of these books are quite good, but I was astounded to Discover they are charging $22.73 for a single Kindle copy. That is beyond outrageous. Even the most popular famous authors don't charge more than 15 or $16 for a new release. I consider that to be so greedy as to recommend you boycott this author because that's ridiculous. That's narcissism.
Profile Image for Yolanda.
552 reviews51 followers
January 4, 2023
This was a new to me author and I enjoyed this book . It was one that kept you guessing till the end. It’s not a heart stopping thriller but it does have engaging characters, plot and setting. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review this book
Profile Image for Virginia Kessen.
461 reviews1 follower
May 1, 2023
I'm so glad Handler has begun writing this series again. I love spending time with Lulu and Hoagy - in that order. There's always a melancholy twist to his stories but they're also compulsively readable.
Profile Image for Ashley Ann.
42 reviews
May 30, 2023
Loved the way this book is written and everything about Hoagy and Lulu. A good mystery that had me question who was guilty, kept me turning the pages and provided unexpected depth to the characters. Definitely will be checking out another Hoagy Mystery.
Profile Image for Paige Retkowski.
28 reviews
June 2, 2023
This was such a fun, easy-to-read murder mystery. This is the first Stewart Hoag Mystery book that I have ready but I will definitely be reading more. His character is so easy to love and although the ending was kinda predictable, it was such an enjoyable book to read.
170 reviews
July 18, 2023
Stewart "Hoagy" Hoagis novelist who has written 1 successful novel but now has writer block. He is head to LA to possible ghost writer. Nikki Dymtryk is Hollywood's reality TV star, known for her wild party lifestyle. This is a new author for me and it was impossible to put this bookdown.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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