Jack Rhodes is about to lend his hand in solving the case of a suspected serial killer. There are common threads that run throughout the cases, and the team that has assembled believes this is not the killer’s first round of victims. Jack is no amateur when it comes to investigations, and he soon begins asking all the right questions to get the ball rolling. As disturbing as the murders are, there exists another and, perhaps, even more, disconcerting commonality. All victims are successful women who own and operate their own companies. Jack quickly realizes that this aspect of the crimes puts Stella West, his close friend, in imminent danger.

Scam at Mount Diablo, by Mike MacKay, follows the main character Jack Rhodes as he thwarts one attack after another all while doing his part to solve a series of murders and prevent Stella West from becoming a serial killer’s next victim. Jack is adept at what he does and puts both his computer and martial arts skills to remain one step ahead of his enemies. MacKay’s novel is an enthralling crime thriller that contains elements of romance, humor, and a hefty dose of mystery.

This is the third book by MacKay I have read, and I can say beyond the shadow of a doubt that Mike MacKay is going to become a name to remember. I never throw around the word “love” loosely when it comes to writing, but I absolutely love MacKay’s work. His characters are well-drawn and pull the reader effortlessly into the story. Jack is a one-of-a-kind main character. His relationship with Stella adds a perfectly measured dose of romance to an already fascinating plot. Some crime thrillers lack character development and focus too heavily on the plot. MacKay’s work is the ideal blend of a plot full of twists and turns and a cast of stand-out characters.

I am giving Scam at Mount Diablo, by Mike MacKay, a resounding 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend MacKay’s work to any fan of crime thrillers and mysteries. MacKay’s novels offer something others seem to lack; depth of character. Readers will fall quickly into Jack’s world, become invested in his plight, and remember him long after they finish the last chapter. With no lack of action sequences, Scam at Mount Diablo is a sure-fire win for readers who want their socks knocked off from the first chapter.