23 1/2 Lies
Synopsis: 23 1/2 Lies contains the following stories.
23 1/2 LIES Lindsay Boxer’s estranged father is gunned down execution-style, and her investigation uncovers life-altering truths. (with Maxine Paetro)
FALLEN RANGER To Rory Yates, being a Texas Ranger means absolute loyalty to the badge. But he’s put through the ultimate test when an armored car robbery suspect might be an ex-Ranger gone rogue. (with Andrew Bourelle)
WATCH YOUR BACK When a starving artist is paid to expose his client’s cheating wife, can he paint the picture that will save his own life? (with Loren D. Estleman)
Pages: 448 Pages
Writer: James Patterson & Maxine Paetro
Recommendations:
Let’s kick things off by letting you in on a little secret – this book is actually a triple threat, containing not one, not two, but three thrilling stories within its pages. Surprisingly, the cover only gives a nod to one of these tales, leaving the other two authors in the shadows. The first story, penned by Patterson and Paetro, features the beloved character Lindsay Boxer in a plot that will keep you on your toes with unexpected twists and turns. However, some readers may feel a bit shortchanged by the resolution – a classic case of high expectations meeting a curveball.
The second story introduces us to a Texas Ranger tasked with investigating an old friend suspected of some shady dealings. This gripping narrative had me glued to the pages, unable to tear myself away. On the other hand, the final story follows an artist down on his luck, willing to do whatever it takes to make ends meet – even if it means embarking on a wild cross-country adventure. This story left me craving more, as it felt like there was so much left untold within its confines.
In the grand scheme of things, the Ranger story steals the show, nestled comfortably in the heart of the book. The tale of the cheating wife falls somewhere in the middle, while the Lindsay Boxer story sadly falls short of expectations. But hey, we all make mistakes – I initially picked up this book for the promise of Lindsay Boxer, only to find solace in the Ranger’s tale. Sometimes, life surprises us in the most unexpected ways.