Jim Stewart

My original Ochoco Reach audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Mike Ironwood is a complex guy who never plans ahead but rather flies by the seat of his pants. Ex-military and one who dislikes authority, Mike finds himself with a new client – Willimina. Willy seeks Mike’s expertise as she feels something on her farm is out-of-place and she feels watched. Together, the two of them find themselves embroiled in a mystery involving the Mexican Drug Cartel, show more various covert federal government agencies and more. Mike, together with his equally deadly special ops brother, Daniel and his loyal Catahoula leopard dog, Bucket, go toe-to-toe with the bad guys.

Bullets flying, fists pounding and a host of who’s who in this thrilling suspense novel that races from page 1 through to the end. Jim Stewart does an excellent job of building each character, making the dialog realistic and keeping the story flowing smoothly even at a fast pace. I loved how Mike Ironwood was a fly by the seat type of guy but it was clear he was a fast thinker, a mover and shaker who could read people and situations accurately.

While this is not truly a western, there are damsels in distress, a cowgirl, a couple of Indians and a ranch. This book is mainly a suspense thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Over nine hours in length, I listened to this book in almost one sitting! I could not shut it off.

Colin Iago McCarthy did an excellent job as narrator. His voice was soothing even through the excitement, his voice was polished and reflected each character well. He spoke clearly and with depth.

There were no issues with the audio quality of this production.

I enjoyed this audiobook and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and action packed suspense.

Audiobook was provided for review by the author. show less

This is Jim Stewart's first book, and he is already establishing himself among the big names in mystery novels. This novel is in the style of John D. MacDonald with a special forces-trained and capable hero, Mike Ironwood, who has a PI office in Portland, Oregon. Mike has a half-brother, Daniel, who is more spiritual and half Nez Pierce. Daniel, who was trained as a Navy Seal, provides some support.

Here, a green-eyed woman, Willimina Hayes, who has a ranch near Prineville. Someone seems to show more be trying to gain control of her ranch, by hook or by crook. She came to Mike just to get some answers.

In an adventure taking Mike into Mexico to deal with a drug cartel and a rogue DEA agent, there is a good mixture of suspense and action with a few surprises thrown in.

The book has interesting characters and is well-paced. I'm looking forward to the next installment. show less