You Can't Stop Me

Here is a rarity - a new series by Max Allan Collins (with writing partner Matthew Clemens). MAC is best known for his Heller series of historical mysteries, Dick Tracy, Ms. Tree, and his movie novelizations. One could argue that Quarry is moving up in the rankings because of the recent novels and reprints, but that is an argument for a later date.

This book feels like Collins' and Clemens' attempt to cash in on their time collaborating on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation novels. Former sheriff JC Harrow brings in a crack team of forensic experts to help solve crimes for television in a kind of a cross between America's Most Wanted and CSI. The team is doing good work, but what JC really wants is to catch the man who murdered his family. The story is a straightforward mystery blended with crime procedural and origin story.

Any time I see MAX ALLAN COLLINS on the spine, I know I will have an enjoyable read and this was no exception. I read that another novel is in the works. I hope he can keep this going until we can get another Heller book.