Malibu Burning

Malibu Burning by Lee Goldberg
9/1/23; 304 pages
Thomas & Mercer
Sharpe and Walker #1

Malibu Burning by Lee Goldberg is a very highly recommended thriller and procedural. What happens when you mix a charismatic and caring con man, a smart aleck, insightful former US Marshall, and a brilliant arson investigator and add in wild fires? A very engaging, entertaining thriller and pursuit.

An unexpected incident allowed US Marshall Andrew Walker to apprehend master thief and con man Danny Cole. While serving his sentence, Danny is a volunteer inmate firefighter and several memorable incidents during a fire sear a plan into his mind. When he is released, Danny begins to set his plan into motion.

Walker, now a new arson investigator, is assigned to partner with veteran arson investigator Walter Sharpe. Sharpe has an encyclopedic knowledge of flammable items and no real need for a partner, especially a comedian wearing a Stetson. When a series of fires begin right as the Santa Ana winds are blowing, resources are stretched thin and the fires are out of control. Sharpe and Walker are investigating, while Danny and his group are planning.

Memorable characters, great dialogue, dangerous situations, fast-paced action, and an interesting plot all work together to make Malibu Burning an impressive un-put-downable novel.

Obviously, the writing is excellent which makes for a compelling and captivating narrative. The descriptions and details in the story make it come alive and the plot keeps the action interesting and moving along at a brisk pace. Adding to its appeal are the well-developed and engaging characters who are all portrayed as unique individuals. There is plenty of humor, especially in the interaction between Walker and Sharpe, and several heart-stopping scenes with even a twist or two.

Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.