Title: CORNERO’S GOLD
Authors: Larry O'Brien (Author), Liam O'Brien (Illustrator)
Review by: Wendy Salinas | Marl Noble Book Review
“Cornero's Gold” is a charming and engaging read that masterfully blends mystery, romance, and family drama. Larry O’Brien’s adept storytelling, combined with a compelling plot and well-developed characters, makes this novel a must-read for fans of crime sleuth mysteries. The book’s nostalgic setting and humorous undertones ensure a delightful reading experience, perfect for cozy evenings. If you enjoy a good detective story with heart and humor, “Cornero's Gold” will not disappoint.
Larry O'Brien’s “Cornero's Gold” is a delightful dive into the sun-soaked streets of 1970s California, blending the elements of a lighthearted detective novel with a nostalgic slice-of-life narrative. The story revolves around Kit O’Banion, a part-time private investigator who gets embroiled in a complex case involving murder, blackmail, and a long-lost treasure. This engaging novel is perfect for fans of classic detective shows like Psych and Magnum P.I.
Liam O'Brien’s illustrations add an extra layer of enjoyment to the book, offering readers visual glimpses into key moments of the story. These drawings enhance the reading experience, making the narrative more vivid and engaging
The plot kicks off when Kit’s father, who runs a private detective agency in Pasadena, assigns him what seems to be a routine task: delivering an envelope to a man named R. Riccota. However, this simple errand quickly escalates into chaos when Kit finds himself killing Lester Sloan in self-defense. From this point, the story transforms into a whirlwind of mystery and adventure as Kit delves deeper into a decades-old robbery of a million dollars in gold, originally stolen from Tony Cornero’s famed gambling ship, the SS Rex.
O'Brien’s storytelling shines through his rich character development and vibrant setting descriptions. The sun-drenched backdrop of California, coupled with the charming activities of surfing, sailing, and family gatherings, creates a nostalgic atmosphere that pulls readers into the era. The rekindled romance between Kit and his childhood friend, Jacquie, adds a heartfelt layer to the narrative. Their chemistry and effortless camaraderie inject a sense of warmth and humor into the story, balancing the tension of the treasure hunt and criminal undertakings.
The mystery unfolds with a series of intriguing clues and unexpected twists, keeping readers on their toes. The narrative’s pacing is well-calibrated, allowing for moments of introspection and character bonding amidst the suspenseful treasure hunt. O’Brien’s use of humor is particularly effective, providing a light-hearted counterpoint to the darker elements of the plot. The dialogues are sharp and witty, contributing to the overall entertainment value of the book.
One of the standout aspects of "Cornero's Gold" is the inclusion of beautifully drawn illustrations by Liam O'Brien. These illustrations enhance the storytelling, offering a visual treat that complements the text and immerses readers further into the world O'Brien has created.
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