Fortune and glory by Janet Evanovich

This is Number 27 in the series involving the intrepid Stephanie Plum. (This reviewer confesses that this is her first introduction to this determined and feisty character, but the book is easily read as a stand-alone book.) Stephanie faces conflict head-on and with her multiple odd sidekicks is able to carry out her job as ‘bounty hunter’, bringing in those who have avoided their court appearances threatening the loss of their bond (bail surety). She is also attempting to assist her grandmother to find a ‘treasure’ that an ageing crime syndicate has hidden. Unfortunately, the clues they seek are often protected by some nefarious characters or are at risk of being lost as the ageing crooks die.

With a mix of humour and action (very much like a Lethal Weapon movie with a female lead), Stephanie leads her entourage of willing and less-enthusiastic family, friends, law enforcement specialists and new acquaintances on a thrilling chase through tunnels and side streets, and with bullets and bad guys aimed in her direction. With a movie-like action narrative, with punchy dialogue, this will appeal to lovers of US Crime drama. Stephanie is portrayed as a character with flaws, foibles and failings and is intensely likeable (and is also conflicted in her romantic life), somewhat akin to the Mel Gibson character – Riggs, from the Lethal Weapon movie series. This will be enjoyed as a great holiday-read escape for adult readers.

Recommended for adults as a light crime drama.

Themes: Thriller, Suspense, Crime drama.

Carolyn Hull