A review by bookdragon217
Eagle Rock by Ian K. Smith

mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

If you really know me, you know that I love a great thriller or mystery. Eagle Rock by Ian K. Smith had me in a chokehold from the first sentence. It is fast, paced suspense story with interesting characters and a murder mystery that unravels bit by bit in real time. I felt like I was right there with the detective team and I was actively putting the pieces together as new clues were revealed.  I couldn't get enough of Ashe Cayne, the bad*ss protagonist and his sidekick Mechanic. In reality, all of the side characters in Cayne's world were great. I can't wait to dive into the first three books in this series because Eagle Rock, Ashe Cayne's 4th novel was fantastic. 

Eagle Rock is a mystery full of quality storytelling. Not only is the narrative captivating, but the author manages to weave in compelling social commentary on power and class, sex trafficking, toxic masculinity, myths about BDSM and the secrets lives led by the wealthy. I loved that this one takes place in Chicago, one of my favorite cities. The Chicago  streets come alive in this one and it was so much fun hearing all the familiar names of streets and neighborhoods.

The writing and dialogue made this one an automatic hit for me. I caught myself flying through the pages because I was so hooked on the mystery and the characters had so much depth and great development. These are some of favorite quotes:
▪︎ "I'm laughing at how different things are for the rich," I said. "You say that as if it's a new concept," my father said. "Always been like that. Always will be. They play by a different set of rules. Held to a different standard."
▪︎ "There isn't any singular type. These depraved and craven men came from all walks of life and every corner of society."
▪︎ "Rich families have strange dynamics. They relate to each other differently. There's this coldness to it all."
▪︎ "Sometimes the time spent chasing money isn't worth the time lost with family."

A big thank you to my lovely  #partners @amistadbooks and @hearourvoicestours for the gifted copy and another tour opportunity.