Customer Reviews

Sins of Brother (Tom McInnes Novels)

5 star:		(28)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Tom McInnes isn't a quitter, but he just couldn't take it anymore. He simply had to get out of the upscale, Mobile, Alabama lawfirm to which he pledged his soul. So he did, opting to save his sanity and what was left of his integrity by opening his own office. Shortly after setting up shop, he recieves a call from his father, telling him that his younger brother had been murdered. Not knowing exactly what to expect, McInnes returns to his home town to investigate the mysterious circumstances surrounding his brother's untimely death. What he uncovers is a viper's nest of trouble...with him in the dead center of it. The resulting story is a hellacious thriller put together by a master storyteller. One would never guess that "Sins..." is Mike Stewart's first foray into the literary world. His characters sing and shine in every aspect, and his capabilities as a believable and deft writer are finely displayed here. The action races along, with nary a breath between scenes, with perfect execution. I found myself flipping pages practically faster than I could read, wanting to find out what happens next. All the way to the last word, Stewart holds you enthralled, like a voyeur at the scene of some heinous crime. Buy this today!

Also recommended: "Deviant Ways"--Chris Mooney "Raveling"--Peter Moore Smith "The Best American Mystery Stories 2000"--ed. Donald Westlake

I live in the area that is so well portrayed in this book. It hooked me completely in the opening sentence. Tom McInnes is a very interesting character, as well his secretary and pal Joey. This book is well planned and completely held my attention. I read this book non-stop. I could not ever figure out what was going to happen next. Mike Stewart's attention to detail was excellent as well as interesting. It accurately described the region as well as capturing the essence of the south. I am off today to find the other books Mike Stewart has written! What a find!

This past Saturday, at around 8:00 PM, I started reading Mike Stewart's SINS OF THE BROTHER. I finished the book -- two glasses of wine later -- at two in the morning. Warning: Once you start reading this book get comfortable because you won't be able to put it down. Although Stewart, in my opinion, is a better writer than Grisham, I can only compare the whirlwind plot and building suspense of SINS OF THE BROTHER to the page-turning fun I had the first time I read THE FIRM. Stewart has written a great book. I can't wait for the sequel.

This book just drips with southern authenticy, plots and twists and turns. I started reading it one Staturday morning, it was done by Sunday afternoon. Once this thing gets going you can't put it down. It is the best book I've read since either The Firm and A Time To Kill, and I'm not sure this isn't better than those. What's shocking is this is his debut!!! If you want a great legal mystery/thriller get this one.

It is hard to believe this fast-paced thriller is a debut novel. Mr. Stewart's ease with prose and dialogue is masterly. The book is moves very well, keeping you at keen attention throughout. You get a double bonus; not only is the book a page-turner, the plotting is particularly clever and intricate.

Brother is killed. Big brother seeks vengeance. Sound familiar? How about if big brother gradually realizes that he better forget about revenge and just concentrate on staying alive? I liked this segue into practicality. I liked Tom McInnes' all too human reactions. After he has spent a lifetime trying to get the best of his controlling, powerful father; Tom pauses and thinks, "Doesn't he LIKE me?" The typical adult child amazed that his own surly attitude might engender a certain distaste in the parent. In Mike Gerrard, Mr. Stewart has created the most awesome villain I can remember. He is so well drawn that sometimes I actually liked him. My only reservation was the women were not believable. But perhaps we were to see them through Tom's eyes who thought girls just naturally smelled better and always had a gentle touch at their command.

"Sins of the Brother" is one of the best mystery-thrillers of the past year, sure to be an award winner. Highly recommended.

This is an outstanding first novel that fits very neatly into the American mystery genre, given its physically capable protagonist, seductive women and multiple corpses. The smooth prose, southern setting and well-crafted plot will particularly appeal to fans of James Lee Burke.

I would not be surprised if Mr Stewart is nominated for one or more year-end awards for mystery writing.

I have grown tired of over dramatized and stereotypical views of the South in fiction but this mystery portrays a realistic view on the modern South and its culture. This book could have been written by a combination of great mystery writers. While the technique is solid, the material is different and refreshing. All this is an amazing combination for a new writer. My expectations are high for Mr. Stewart's future.

What a great first novel. I usually wait to read reviews befoe buying a first time novelist, but after reading the jacket I was hooked. The pacing, the humor, the twists and turns and characters were addictive. I love Tom and Jody and can't wait for another wild ride. Keep up the great work Mr. Stewart. You've got "it".

I happened to read this book while visiting family in Tuscaloosa. The author's descriptions of the Alabama countryside were perfect. I really cared about each of the characters he presented. I've already purchased one of the sequels, Dog Island--hoping to follow the relationships between some of the same characters, and looking forward to his exciting storytelling. I think this author is as good as Grisham--just a matter of time until he's "discovered."

Every once in a while you can find a first novel author and realize that you have found an author that should last a long time. Mike Stewart's first novel "Sins of the Brother" reads a little like John Grisham with a quick witty dialogue that resembles Elmore Leonard. Stewart's strong narriative and quick stick to the point storyline makes for a great read.

"Sins of the Brother" is about Alabama lawyer Tom McInnis, whose little brother is murdered on a river in his hometown. McInnis goes to the funeral and is asked by his father to investigate his brother's business dealings that may have resulted in his death. McInnis slowly learns that his brother was not exactly a model citizen and reveals that his brother had ties to a southern mobster. Soon McInnis is making new enemies and encountering some old ones as his investigation draws him deeper.

This novel is a lot like Grisham with the southern feel and the elaborate plan McInnis uses to get out of trouble at the end. The side characters are a true joy, especially Joey a private investigtor who works for McInnis. The dialogue is quick and sometimes over the top. McInnis is just too cocky in some parts when faced with immense danger. Looking forward to the next in the McInnis series.