Review of The Harlequin

[Rosemary Wright]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Harlequin" by D. B. Watson.]

---

4 out of 4 stars

---

Share This Review

---

The Harlequin, by D. B. Watson, is a crime and thriller novel. Patrick Valdez, a young man, was the son of a billionaire, who alone owned the vast majority of Cargo City, and this made Patrick untouchable. Though his family members were aware of his sexual orientation, they didn't know about his secret adventures. Gavin, an art supply store owner, was in debt. To make money fast, he researched into Patrick and entered his life.

Afterwards, Gavin encouraged Patrick to perform in his private shows. One day, Patrick had a few drinks, and he took several inappropriate photos of him. Patrick wanted to quit their relationship, but Gavin threatened to sell the pictures if he didn't play along.

Meanwhile, Adam, a private detective, just bought a building, which he used as an office and a home. Gavin was his neighbor. One day, while driving to his building, he saw two persons fighting on a tree branch dangling over the gate of a memorial park. Then, he rescued Patrick from a masked man that just eliminated Gavin, while Gavin was taking advantage of Patrick again. Who was this masked assailant? Was he connected with Patrick, or he had his own personal motive?

The Harlequin is the first book of a series. It's comprehensible and interesting, ending in a satisfactory way. Its plot is solid, consisting of fascinating events. I never read a book involving gay relationships. Actually, I decided to read this one for a change, and I was wowed by the author's great storytelling skills. His narrative is smooth and gripping. I love the conversations, which are captivating and witty most times.

Involving romance and a police investigation, the novel is unputdownable. Honestly, as I was reading it, I found it difficult to close it to do something else occasionally. All I wanted was to keep reading to know who the masked man was and to see the next stage of the story. Furthermore, comprising 274 pages and short chapters, it's unique and entertaining. It proves that the author has been writing for over forty years.

Regarding the characters, they are interesting. The author gives enough details about them, which make them relatable, introducing each one of them into the story in a fitting manner. Adam, one of the protagonists, is a strong and die-hard man. Patrick, the other protagonist, has a sweet personality, though he has some flaws.

I enjoyed reading the novel. Nonetheless, most of the characters are male and gay. I think the author should have reduced the number of gay characters to make the story realistic, since same-sex relationships are not so common in real life. Besides, there are some hot male-male sex scenes. Hence, readers who don't like the aforementioned features may want to skip the book. Anyway, it's a worthwhile read.

Overall, I rate The Harlequin 4 out of 4 stars. I couldn't rate it lower because it's exceptionally well narrated. Moreover, it seems well edited, though I noticed a couple of grammar errors. It'll be a good read for those who love crime and thriller books that involve gay relationships or readers who are interested in knowing about the gay world.

******
The Harlequin
View: on Bookshelves

[shreyagupta]

The plot of this book is very different from the ones I generally come across. I would never have guessed that Gavin will be murdered. The book sounds like an interesting read. Thanks for a well-put-together review.

[Chetna_Kharbanda]

Track of the book sounds complex yet engaging. Thanks for the review. Above par writing and elements in the story make a thriller more exciting. I would love to read it soon

[Rosemary Wright]

The plot of this book is very different from the ones I generally come across. I would never have guessed that Gavin will be murdered. The book sounds like an interesting read. Thanks for a well-put-together review.

You're welcome. It's indeed an interesting read.

[Mayur Arjune]

The revolution of sexual orientation has been the topic which I felt reading the review. I will read it.

[Black Jewel]

I am on the fence about this one, due to the nature of the relationships, but I might still pick it up. Thanks for the review.

[Amy Luman]

I love to get in at the beginning of a series. This one sounds good even though it may not be very realistic.

[Ousebian Nicholas]

Wow, I already love the book. It has an intense story with multiple plot twists, based on your review. But why would Gavin be so mean to Patrick? It's unfair. And who is the masked assailant? I will read the book to find out. Your review is insightful. You did an incredible job.

[Nathaniel Owolabi]

This seems like an interesting crime thriller book. I love how the review was written also, it sells the book with clarity and the understanding of what you are going to be reading about. Great review and promising book. I'm adding this one to my bookshelf. I look forward to reading it.

[Rosemary Wright]

Thanks all for your nice comments. I hope you enjoy the book.

[NetMassimo]

I'm interested in a good story and realistic characters, I don't care about their sexual orientation or other characteristics as long as they're properly developed. Thank you for your great review!