Review of Crimeline Hollywood

[Meshach pst]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Crimeline Hollywood" by Thomas Collins.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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Crimeline Hollywood By Thomas Collins is a story that centers on Dash Harwood, an erstwhile clinical psychologist-turned-astrologer, who finds himself in the midst of the high-stakes kidnapping of his star client, fabulous Sparklynn James. At the very center of fame, fortune, and crime, Dash has to paddle through dangerous waters with the help of resourceful PI Rebecca Fairway and mysterious Captain Fin. The plot's very complicated, with red herrings and unexpectted allies keeping one on tenterhooks.

Among the really well-done things in this book is the vivid portrait of Hollywood's duality: its sparkling facade and its dark underbelly. Sparklynn James is excellent in this, all vulnerable and resilient as a star on the decline. Scenes are particularly tight on Clinghouse Island; one can almost feel the tension as Dash and Rebecca work their way across the treacherous terrain. 

The fact that this author could mix humor with suspense through Dash's banter and Rebecca's no-nonsense attitude lends an appreciatingly light touch to the narrative. One thing, just one, that might be said in its favor is that it is definitely a page-turner. The book was okay but i did find some errors.

Some things, however, could have been done better. The character of Captain Fin is intriguing, though undeveloped. More detail in his backstory and depth would have created a greater effect on the role he plays. It does get a little dragging toward the middle parts; some scenes do repeat themselves. Tighten up those parts, and flow will be much improved in general. The subplot involving the financial intricacies of the RE Centers could have been quite streamlined to refocus attention on the central kidnapping plot. Despite these minor irritations, it was a riveting read. 

For this reason, I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars. It has its strengths in engaging characterization, especially Dash and Sparklynn, with an overall rather complicated and suspenseful plot held well. Vivid portrayals of Hollywood and minute details of the high-stakes rescue mission on Clinghouse Island set it apart. But the slight pacing issues and underdeveloped secondary characters just brought it a little short of the mark. Generally, it is really very engaging—a read that keeps one on her toes from start to finish. I would strongly advise any reader of crime thrillers and Hollywood dramas to pick it up. 

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Crimeline Hollywood
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