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High Crimes: A Brandy Martini novel
She left the big city police force to start life over as a private investigator in a small mountain town, where things prove to be a little too quiet...until she lands in jail next to a drunk hippie with a missing son and ends up tied to a tree in the forest.
After a Chicago drug lord with a 9mm puts three fresh holes in her body, Detective Brandy Martini moves to the mountain town of Boomville, CO to start a new life as a private investigator. A misunderstanding at the laundromat one night lands her in lockup, where she meets her first client: a world traveling, goat ranching hippie with a missing son whose top-notch weed seems to be attracting all sorts of unwanted attention. While chasing down leads and dodging various attacks on her life, Brandy must also adjust to the sudden arrival of her disaster prone, Sorbonne educated sister Annie into her new life and home. Also on the to-do list: deal with her dog’s hunger strike, hide feelings she has no business having for one Lieutenant John Pritzky, and repress memories about what really happened back in Chicago.
As the clock ticks down and the body count goes up, Brandy’s investigation kicks into high gear, taking her out into the forest and on a journey to hell, and taking the reader on a wild, intense, and emotional ride.
HIGH CRIMES mixes humor and suspense, weed-fueled conversations with action packed scenes, bar stool philosophers with the acerbic bartenders who serve them, freshly arrived hipster snowboarders with change-resistant locals, con artists with Proust scholars, and coconut-milk-latte-sipping residents with Jack-Daniels-in-the-morning ones.
Fans of Janet Evanovich will enjoy the lighter moments and the family dynamics; fans of Carl Hiaasen will appreciate the irreverent humor, the offbeat characters and the gritty undertones. Fans of Nevada Barr, Edna Buchanan and Sara Paretsky will get to know another tough and smart female protagonist with a complex inner life and a tendency to view the world through a darker lens. Fans of Kill Bill can expect some decent butt-kicking.
Humor and heart, chills and thrills.
After a Chicago drug lord with a 9mm puts three fresh holes in her body, Detective Brandy Martini moves to the mountain town of Boomville, CO to start a new life as a private investigator. A misunderstanding at the laundromat one night lands her in lockup, where she meets her first client: a world traveling, goat ranching hippie with a missing son whose top-notch weed seems to be attracting all sorts of unwanted attention. While chasing down leads and dodging various attacks on her life, Brandy must also adjust to the sudden arrival of her disaster prone, Sorbonne educated sister Annie into her new life and home. Also on the to-do list: deal with her dog’s hunger strike, hide feelings she has no business having for one Lieutenant John Pritzky, and repress memories about what really happened back in Chicago.
As the clock ticks down and the body count goes up, Brandy’s investigation kicks into high gear, taking her out into the forest and on a journey to hell, and taking the reader on a wild, intense, and emotional ride.
HIGH CRIMES mixes humor and suspense, weed-fueled conversations with action packed scenes, bar stool philosophers with the acerbic bartenders who serve them, freshly arrived hipster snowboarders with change-resistant locals, con artists with Proust scholars, and coconut-milk-latte-sipping residents with Jack-Daniels-in-the-morning ones.
Fans of Janet Evanovich will enjoy the lighter moments and the family dynamics; fans of Carl Hiaasen will appreciate the irreverent humor, the offbeat characters and the gritty undertones. Fans of Nevada Barr, Edna Buchanan and Sara Paretsky will get to know another tough and smart female protagonist with a complex inner life and a tendency to view the world through a darker lens. Fans of Kill Bill can expect some decent butt-kicking.
Humor and heart, chills and thrills.
356 pages, ebook
Published October 1, 2022
120 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 30, 2022
Brandy Martini leaves the Chicago PD and heads toy he mountains of Colorado to start her own PI business. Her first job is to find Babs' missing son.
It started out a bit like a cozy mystery but with more humor than is typical, at least in my experience. But then the intensity ramped up, and it was cozy no more. It was edge of your seat, biting your nails, intensity.
My favorite character might me the dog. I am a sucker for fur babies in books and this dog was so loveable and I loved how much he was adored by all. There were many other notable characters who I loved including Brandy's sister, her roommates, a police officer. The list goes on and on. So many good characters.
I also liked the undertones of romance, but as a romance lover, I wish there was more romance. Of course that wasn't the theme of the book so it definitely took a back seat.
It started out a bit like a cozy mystery but with more humor than is typical, at least in my experience. But then the intensity ramped up, and it was cozy no more. It was edge of your seat, biting your nails, intensity.
My favorite character might me the dog. I am a sucker for fur babies in books and this dog was so loveable and I loved how much he was adored by all. There were many other notable characters who I loved including Brandy's sister, her roommates, a police officer. The list goes on and on. So many good characters.
I also liked the undertones of romance, but as a romance lover, I wish there was more romance. Of course that wasn't the theme of the book so it definitely took a back seat.
January 22, 2023
Great Story
Loved the read, the story, the characters, the setting and the humour. This book keeps you guessing and delivers an enjoyable read.
Loved the read, the story, the characters, the setting and the humour. This book keeps you guessing and delivers an enjoyable read.
October 6, 2022
A fast-paced comedic thriller that is both big-hearted and easy to love. Thanks to Montana Kane’s highly memorable voice and vision, Boomville, Colorado may be the new Fargo, Minnesota.
After being wounded in the line of duty, Detective Brandy Martini leaves crime-ridden Chicago for Colorado. But her dream to earn a comfortable living as a private investigator in a peaceful mountain town of 2600 people is short-lived. Having not yet achieved inner peace herself, she finds herself in a hilarious kerfuffle over the brand of detergent in a local laundromat.
If there’s a silver lining to finding herself in the local lockup so soon after moving to town, it’s that she meets her first client – a hippie named Babs whose son Lucas has gone missing. Ironically, having once pursued the murderous drug lords of Chicago, Brandy soon discovers that Lucas is a renowned weed grower.
The case is a far cry from the smack dealers she pursued in Chicago, but could Brandy find herself back in the middle of a drug war?
While aspects of Montana Kane’s voice and dialogue evoke Janet Evanovich, author Montana Kane’s characterization is far more nuanced, with a unique blend of darkness, action, levity, absurdity and psychedelic silliness. Distinctive from anyone else in the book landscape, Kane’s unique voice is far more reminiscent of the reigning masters of the cinematic comedic thriller, the Coen Brothers. Fans of The Big Lebowski will be right at home (there are more “dudes” per chapter in High Crimes than in any other book in recent memory). Kane’s depiction of the residents and bohemian mountain culture – where certain residents declare things as “atomic,” “solar” and “maximal” – is both endearing and addictive. In nearly every way, Kane’s Boomville is as culturally well-defined as the Coen Brothers’ Fargo.
It’s rare that a book both amuses and grips with suspense, but Kane manages to do both. Along the way, even Brandy’s inner musings often lead to highly quotable philosophy (“Things are what they are and what they are is mostly crap for a lot of people a lot of the time”). Let’s hope Kane has more adventures in store for Brandy.
After being wounded in the line of duty, Detective Brandy Martini leaves crime-ridden Chicago for Colorado. But her dream to earn a comfortable living as a private investigator in a peaceful mountain town of 2600 people is short-lived. Having not yet achieved inner peace herself, she finds herself in a hilarious kerfuffle over the brand of detergent in a local laundromat.
If there’s a silver lining to finding herself in the local lockup so soon after moving to town, it’s that she meets her first client – a hippie named Babs whose son Lucas has gone missing. Ironically, having once pursued the murderous drug lords of Chicago, Brandy soon discovers that Lucas is a renowned weed grower.
The case is a far cry from the smack dealers she pursued in Chicago, but could Brandy find herself back in the middle of a drug war?
While aspects of Montana Kane’s voice and dialogue evoke Janet Evanovich, author Montana Kane’s characterization is far more nuanced, with a unique blend of darkness, action, levity, absurdity and psychedelic silliness. Distinctive from anyone else in the book landscape, Kane’s unique voice is far more reminiscent of the reigning masters of the cinematic comedic thriller, the Coen Brothers. Fans of The Big Lebowski will be right at home (there are more “dudes” per chapter in High Crimes than in any other book in recent memory). Kane’s depiction of the residents and bohemian mountain culture – where certain residents declare things as “atomic,” “solar” and “maximal” – is both endearing and addictive. In nearly every way, Kane’s Boomville is as culturally well-defined as the Coen Brothers’ Fargo.
It’s rare that a book both amuses and grips with suspense, but Kane manages to do both. Along the way, even Brandy’s inner musings often lead to highly quotable philosophy (“Things are what they are and what they are is mostly crap for a lot of people a lot of the time”). Let’s hope Kane has more adventures in store for Brandy.
October 24, 2022
If you are looking for a more laid back, relaxed thriller than High Crimes is probably right up your alley. Brandy is an ex Chicago cop recovering from a recent shooting and starting over as a private investigator in a small town in Colorado. When a misunderstanding lands Brandy in lockup for the night she meets her first client, an aging hippie who’s pot growing son is missing. What ensures for Brandy as she dives head first into small town life is a mixture of chill vibes, tense situations, and a drug operation bigger than anyone every expected.
Brandy is a strong and determined yet complex character starting over but not entirely from scratch. She meets a lot of interesting individuals especially a local lieutenant who she can’t quite figure out yet. This book is hopefully the start of a series and if you prefer a lighter read then think about adding this to your tbr.
Rating 3.5 stars
Thank you @letstalkbookspromo for this eARC and a spot on the book tour.
Brandy is a strong and determined yet complex character starting over but not entirely from scratch. She meets a lot of interesting individuals especially a local lieutenant who she can’t quite figure out yet. This book is hopefully the start of a series and if you prefer a lighter read then think about adding this to your tbr.
Rating 3.5 stars
Thank you @letstalkbookspromo for this eARC and a spot on the book tour.
October 29, 2022
I’m going to do a rapid fire review of this mystery book that I read in a day.
I loved the witty dialogue with all the characters.
The reader learns just enough about the main character’s (Brandi Martini) past but there is definitely more that I’m looking forward to being revealed in future books.
The mystery was interesting, there was a perfect amount of action, and it all tied in perfectly with the setting of the Colorado mountains.
Brandi’s sister, Annie, who is brilliant but clueless at the same time always shows up with impeccable timing.
There is tension (the good kind) between Brandy and the local police lieutenant, John Pritzky which is another good reason for me to anticipate the next book in the series.
I loved the witty dialogue with all the characters.
The reader learns just enough about the main character’s (Brandi Martini) past but there is definitely more that I’m looking forward to being revealed in future books.
The mystery was interesting, there was a perfect amount of action, and it all tied in perfectly with the setting of the Colorado mountains.
Brandi’s sister, Annie, who is brilliant but clueless at the same time always shows up with impeccable timing.
There is tension (the good kind) between Brandy and the local police lieutenant, John Pritzky which is another good reason for me to anticipate the next book in the series.
October 31, 2022
This was a witty slow burner mystery thriller about an ex-Chicago detective that leaves the high crime life to a small town in Colorado to start over as a PI. The banter was comedic and smart. If you are looking for a more relaxing type of thriller, this is a good light read. It was a little slow for my tastes but also it was a nice change from the dark and fast pace I usually read. I loved the characters in it and felt a good connection to them. Since I grew up on the beach and grew up calling everyone dude, I really connected with the friendship she had with the “dudes” and I loved her sister. The inner dialogue of the FMC had me laughing out loud at times and she sure knew how to get herself into some interesting situations.
October 29, 2022
Brandy Martini has moved from Chicago Police Department to the mountain town of Broomville, CO and becomes a Private Investigator. She meets her first client while locked up in a cell....
She soon finds herself in all kinds of situations, and on top of all this The Cowboy.... Lieutenant John Pritzky keeping her feelings in check. Meeting all kinds of people in the small town.
This book has everything, plot, tensions, grit but with humour too, great female lead character in Brandy Martini, Pritzky is a great counter balance to her and the secondary characters all prove interesting too. Even Winston the dog is well written.
I really hope we see more cases in the near future.
She soon finds herself in all kinds of situations, and on top of all this The Cowboy.... Lieutenant John Pritzky keeping her feelings in check. Meeting all kinds of people in the small town.
This book has everything, plot, tensions, grit but with humour too, great female lead character in Brandy Martini, Pritzky is a great counter balance to her and the secondary characters all prove interesting too. Even Winston the dog is well written.
I really hope we see more cases in the near future.
October 31, 2022
Brandy Martini is an ex Chicago cop who left the force after being critically injured to become a PI in a small Colorado mountain town. A missing person case quickly turns into a dangerous drug cartel case and Brandy needs all her wits and experience to survive.
This is the first in a series and I really liked Brandy. She's smart, snarky and gives as good as she gets. The story reminded me a bit of the Stephanie Plum books. There's banter, one-liners and plenty of action plus a good cast of supporting characters. It was an easy, quick read with a page turning ending. I look forward to more books in the series.
This is the first in a series and I really liked Brandy. She's smart, snarky and gives as good as she gets. The story reminded me a bit of the Stephanie Plum books. There's banter, one-liners and plenty of action plus a good cast of supporting characters. It was an easy, quick read with a page turning ending. I look forward to more books in the series.
October 29, 2022
Ohh the humor! Very enjoyable.
Brandy leaves behind busy Chicago - and embraces the quiet solitude of small town Colorado. With a shiny new PI license, Brandy finds herself in the midst of a drug bust. And the focus of the local drug ring. Finding herself in jail for the night, Brandy makes an unlikely friend - a motherly shop owner. Her son has been missing for a few days - mother's intuition pinging.
Her sister, Annie, shows up at her door - newly released from her teaching gig.
Lots of humor, sexual tension and dog hugs. Quick and easy read.
Brandy leaves behind busy Chicago - and embraces the quiet solitude of small town Colorado. With a shiny new PI license, Brandy finds herself in the midst of a drug bust. And the focus of the local drug ring. Finding herself in jail for the night, Brandy makes an unlikely friend - a motherly shop owner. Her son has been missing for a few days - mother's intuition pinging.
Her sister, Annie, shows up at her door - newly released from her teaching gig.
Lots of humor, sexual tension and dog hugs. Quick and easy read.
September 11, 2022
READ MY FULL REVIEW AT Best Thriller Books
Make sure to check out the full review
Make sure to check out the full review
October 17, 2022
High Crimes is a fast paced thriller mystery, with humor thrown in for good measure.
I devoured this over the course of a lazy Saturday. Perfect for fans of non-gory thrillers (me!)
Think Stephanie Plum, only edgier and more action packed.
I can only hope there will be more Brandy Alexander novels on the horizon.
Thank you to Let'sTalkBooksPromo for my complimentary eARC. All thoughts are my own.
I devoured this over the course of a lazy Saturday. Perfect for fans of non-gory thrillers (me!)
Think Stephanie Plum, only edgier and more action packed.
I can only hope there will be more Brandy Alexander novels on the horizon.
Thank you to Let'sTalkBooksPromo for my complimentary eARC. All thoughts are my own.
January 18, 2026
Twists and Turns to Surprising Outcome
Twist and turns keep you guessing but it’s also filled with little snarky comments that lighten up the situation. A great story about starting out in a new profession but with more excitement and fear than expected. Throw in a little sexual tension and you have a great story to a surprising outcome.
Twist and turns keep you guessing but it’s also filled with little snarky comments that lighten up the situation. A great story about starting out in a new profession but with more excitement and fear than expected. Throw in a little sexual tension and you have a great story to a surprising outcome.
May 24, 2023
Simply a delight. Good plot, credible characters and almost unheard of, clean prose, no grammar mistakes, typos misspelling or wrong quotes. It was thrilling, funny and I'm really hoping Ms. Kane will keep up the good work and give us a sequel, it will be worth the wait I'm sure.
March 7, 2024
High Crimes
I liked it. I enjoyed the characters, who were developed well. Brandy was interesting with a good mixture of experience and snark. Good story line. Plenty of action. Recomended.
I liked it. I enjoyed the characters, who were developed well. Brandy was interesting with a good mixture of experience and snark. Good story line. Plenty of action. Recomended.
July 18, 2025
Wordy
I wanted to like this book. I liked the lead character. However I gave up chewing my way through the barrage of unnecessary descriptive adjectives about page 60.
Sorry, I know everyone starts to write a book and few have the dedication to finish. So I admire the effort.
I wanted to like this book. I liked the lead character. However I gave up chewing my way through the barrage of unnecessary descriptive adjectives about page 60.
Sorry, I know everyone starts to write a book and few have the dedication to finish. So I admire the effort.
December 13, 2022
this book was a great read! Held my attention all the way through the book. nice little twist at the end
June 12, 2023
The only character in this book worth reading about was Winston. This was one of the worst written books I’ve ever wasted my time on. Poorly written!
July 23, 2023
High Crimes
Pretty exciting read. Never did figure out about main cop in this story and kids thought Lucas was just a kid.
Pretty exciting read. Never did figure out about main cop in this story and kids thought Lucas was just a kid.
December 30, 2023
Action and humor in good measure.
March 17, 2024
Totally enjoyed this series ! Brandy was entertaining, all of the characters! Like to know the back story on "Cowboy " ! Getting ready to start the second book,hopefully more will be coming !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2024
Really enjoyed
January 29, 2025
1st in series.
Not sure how I feel about this one. Some parts seemed really long & unnecessary.
Not sure how I feel about this one. Some parts seemed really long & unnecessary.
April 28, 2025
Interesting read
This has a great story, lots of laughs, and then toss in intrigue. But be prepared, there is also violence.
This has a great story, lots of laughs, and then toss in intrigue. But be prepared, there is also violence.
July 4, 2025
Fast paced
A Great story with interesting characters. Easy read , hard to put down. I highly recommend for a thrilling read
A Great story with interesting characters. Easy read , hard to put down. I highly recommend for a thrilling read
September 13, 2025
Worth reading
This book was full of action and feelings. I'm going to read the whole series! Brandy is a protagonist worth following.
This book was full of action and feelings. I'm going to read the whole series! Brandy is a protagonist worth following.
February 3, 2026
PIs can be funny
PIs can be funny while doing a bang up job. Very funny descriptions and humorous thoughts throughout the book. I really enjoyed it.
PIs can be funny while doing a bang up job. Very funny descriptions and humorous thoughts throughout the book. I really enjoyed it.
December 1, 2022
This is my first book by this author and I adored it! It is a suspense novel with plenty of sarcasm sprinkled throughout WHICH I LOVED! Annie, Cowboy and Brandy are characters you will grow to adore! There was a twist I didn’t see coming, so bravo!👏🏼👏🏼 The last third was high energy and action packed! If you like some comedy and sarcasm thrown in with a mystery that needs solving, some possible gang related crimes, a kidnapping, and lots of deception, you will LOVE this one! I can’t wait for the second book in the series to come out!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews