Once A Crooked Man by David McCallum

What starts out as a simple act of help becomes a life changing event for the protagonist in David McCallum’s ONCE A CROOKED MAN.

To enhance the story even more, it’s narrated by the author himself. McCallum brings his characters to life with great emotion and enthusiasm.

Sal, Max and Enzo Bruschetti have been running their disreputable business enterprises for years. When a health issue sends Max to the hospital, the doctor tells him it’s time to slow down and take life easier. He devises a plan to close some of their dealings and become legit businessmen. There are, however, a few people who will have to be done away with to make this work.

At the moment of the Bruschetti’s deadly discussion, actor Harry Murphy had to answer the call of nature in an alley next to the restaurant where they were meeting. It was just Harry’s luck to be under an open window and hear bits of the conversation.

Later reflecting on what he had heard, Harry decides to try and warn one of the intended victims of what is planned. Harry’s trip to London sets into motion a series of events that sends his life on a path he never imaged and him playing a role that could get him killed.

Mixing mobsters, law enforcement agencies, innocent bystanders and a bag of cash, McCallum has Harry playing out fantasy roles of gangster, spy and hero. Combining the crafty cunningness of a hired killer, the antics of a rogue female cop and the missteps of a want-to-be spy with humor and intrigue makes this a story packed with suspense and lots of surprises.

The story moves at a fast pace holding your attention with its many twists and turns. The characters are quirky, well-developed and easy to like. The setting switches between New York and London with ease.

As the story unfolds, the characters evolve and take on new dimensions giving more depth to the plot. It’s a fascinating story that will keep you guessing right up until the surprise ending.

ONCE A CROOKED MAN may have you rethinking doing a good deed … and then again. Can’t wait to see what Harry gets himself into next.

Once A Crooked Man by David McCallum, Narrated by David McCallum, Macmillan Audio, @2016, ISBN: 978-1427271709, Unabridged, 10 Discs, Run Time: 12 Hours

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Author David McCallum

Thanks for stopping by today, I do so appreciate it. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out this intriguing novel. In case you’re wondering about the author, yep it’s written and read by Ducky from NCIS. Do you remember what other character he played many years ago that was so popular?