Dogboy v Catfish is cleverly thought out, plotted story that is full of intrigue that had the lights on way past midnight.

Kathy ( aka Catfish0) attempts to files for divorce (after 18 months) which now entitles her to half her her husband's Dogboy's ( Lindsay) estate plus child support.

Catfish is not a nice person to put it mildly but a determined gold digger and on a mission to get what she wants no matter the price.

Dogboy however has gone missing.

The police are positive foul play is involved but there is no body.

Luke Gracias has written a gripping story that will have you turning the pages as twist after twist comes your way.

Its a journey the reader must take for themselves and one they wont soon forget.

I am a new fan Luke Gracias. Cant wait to read more of your books.

Thanks to NetGalley for the privilege to read and review Dogboy v Catfish. Loved it.

I picked this book up because I was intrigued by the title; didn't even know what it was about. I found that this is a terrific story that I couldn't put down and I highly recommend it to anyone who likes a good thriller.

Description:
On the day of her second wedding, Katherine Fisher, aka ‘Catfish,’ set the date for her divorce. In precisely 18 months, she would be entitled to half of their combined assets and receive maintenance payments until her five-year-old daughter, Emma, turns 18. Just as Catfish was about to take her husband, Lindsay ‘Dogboy’ Kramer (a successful businessman and dog whisperer) to the cleaners, he goes missing.

The police investigation into Dogboy’s disappearance leads them into the dark world of counterfeit designer goods, money laundering, and drug smuggling.
With Dogboy’s assets frozen and the mob protecting their interests, the missing persons case escalates to homicide. Catfish is in a race against time to get hold of Dogboy’s assets before the police get hold of her.

One question remains - is Dogboy dead or alive?

My Thoughts:
This book has themes of divorce, wealth, greed, corruption, revenge, friendship, drug smuggling, money laundering, and the domestic legal system in Australia. Quite a mix! This clever novel is full of twists and surprises. It was fun to read and I couldn't put it down, and actually hated for it to end (even though I liked the ending). The book stood out to me because I don't think I've ever read one with a storyline like this. The way Dogboy got his name was an interesting story in an of itself. The plot had a good amount of tension and I couldn't wait to find out what happened, so it kept me awake reading into the night. Luke Gracias is a new author for me and I see he has written a couple more books that I'm going to check out soon.

Thanks to Luke Gracias through Netgalley for a review copy of this book.

Katherine Fisher (Catfish) marries for the second time and somehow her wedding day is also the day that she sets the day for her divorce from Lindsay (Dogboy) Kramer.

The novel plays on the idea of the Australian law in 2013 which said that after 18 months of marriage a partner (or, by that time, ex partner) is entitled to maintenance. This would, for Catfish, entitle her to payments for her and her young daughter. However, at the crucial time, Dogboy disappears, which kicks into action a complex legal shenanigans basically meaning the cunning plan Catfish had is now blown apart. It also kicks off some plot and pinch-points which develop the characterisation of Catfish and deepens the plot into a particularly complex and dark place. I enjoyed that, but there were times when I had to re-read or flick back to make a couple of plot points make sense. They did. It was probably me, being tired. Perhaps.

It's certainly complex and there's an intelligence to it. Highly recommended, but keep your wits about you.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for th ARC.

Twenty years before his very drunk college friends were attacked by robbers. They watched as Lindsay Kramer’s summoned stray dogs. The dogs protected them and chased the robbers away.
Now, Lindsay Kramer is a wealthy businessman, nicknamed DogBoy, because of the incident. He falls in love with a beautiful widow named Katherine Fisher.
Katherine Fisher’s nickname is ‘Catfish’. Her first husband was murdered, leaving her with a five-year old child to care for. When she marries for the second time it is not out of love. She has a plan – a short-lived marriage, and a quick divorce and loads of alimony. Lindsay Kramer is perfect for her trap.
Now as she sets everything goes awry. Her husband goes missing. Since this is unusual for him, foul play is expected. His assets are frozen. Catfish is trying to grab what she can of Lindsay’s fortune before the police zero in on her. She has a lot to fear since she’s involved in some shady dealing.
Lindsay’s hands are not clean. Is he dead? Is he running from people who want him dead?
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
I posted this review on Goodreads

I wasn’t sure what to expect with DOGBOY V. CATFISH, only that reviews suggested it was worth reading. And, oh, yes it is! I must admit, I found the beginning a bit awkward. I thought perhaps this was author Luke Garcias’ first book, but apparently not. It is not a graceful beginning, in terms of the writing; it feels awkward. The transitions between scenes and from conversations to thoughts are just a bit off. But at about the 20% point, I found myself ignoring the writing style and really paying attention to the story. At one-third of the way, I was hooked and unable to put the book down. An untrustworthy woman seeks an overly favorable divorce settlement from a man that everyone, especially dogs, trust implicitly. The details of the divorce are unique to Australia but the characters and the plot machinations are global and as compelling as they are convoluted. This is a wonderfully satisfying mystery that is a delight to read. I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

This book was great fun! I'm not sure exactly what genre it would be - there's elements of police, crime, and influencers, yet in a way it is just about people.
Had I heard all that, I may not have been tempted to read it, but that would be a shame, as I thoroughly enjoyed it, and had my nose fairly glued to the screen as I read it! The plot is a little twisty and involved, but that produces a fascinating read, and I can happily say it is not like anything I have read.

Dogboy v. Catfish by Luke Gracias

We first meet Dogboy aka Lindsay at Melbourne college with a group of friends. Those friends included Freya Keogh, Michael Kaynes, with more in the group and they were all headed to a pub. That’s what university students do, right? On their way home from the pub, well into a drunken state and singing the school song as loud as they could, Lindsay shouted for them to be quiet. The group was stunned and startled because Lindsay was normally a very shy, quiet young man. When Lindsay shouted a couple of dogs that had been following Lindsay began to snarl. More dogs came out of the woods and surrounded the group of students. They were about to be attacked by a group of six hoodlums, who fled when the dogs attacked them. From this point on Lindsay was nicknamed Dogboy.

We next meet Lindsay Kramer through his high brow wife in Freya Keogh’s law office many years later. Freya has become a powerful lawyer and Lindsay’s wife is there for a divorce. Her name is Katherine Kelly Fisher, and she was a runner up in the Miss Melbourne competition in 2001. Richly dressed from head to toe, she reeked of money. She also owns a boutique called Catfish Kelly’s. Why the name Catfish? Katherine made the name famous when she did a campaign for Catfish Wines after the beauty pageant. In fact, many started calling Katherine Catfish because the ad campaign was so successful.

After Katherine’s first husband, Darren died unexpectedly on a business trip to Bangkok, Katherine had to earn money to support her and her 7 year old daughter Emma. That’s how she met her second husband, Lindsay Kramer (Dogboy). He rented her the space for her high end boutique, where she sold designer shoes, bags and clothing. They were married just under 18 months when Lindsay had to go away. He didn’t return. Katherine wasn’t happy in the marriage so took the opportunity of his absence to arrange for a divorce.

Freya didn’t trust Katherine and refused to take her on as a client unless Katherine paid $250,000 up front, which was more than twice her normal fee. She was suspicious of the way Katherine earned her money. And Freya also mistrusted the story she presented.

You will not want to put this book down. It’s an intriguing story of lies and deception with the possibility of murder thrown in. Freya involves Michael Kaynes also a lawyer who has remained good friends with Dogboy. Together with detectives Green and Findlay they trace Lindsay’s tracks and are able to figure out Katherine’s unique way of earning a ton of money. I’ve discovered an interesting fact reading this book. You have to be a very smart person to be a crook. And having no soul doesn’t hurt either.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Authors Up Front for allowing to me to review this book.

Great read. I was actually a little unsure whether to carry on when catfish visited Freya but I’m glad I persisted in the end. I found that part a bit too full of difficult jargon. But it’s well worth a read with money laundering, murder, a missing person and a bitter divorce. I recommend.

This is a fresh contemporary thriller which centres on the marriage/divorce of Lindsay (Dogboy) Kramer and Katherine Fisher. When Lindsay suddenly disappears without trace, Katherine makes a grab for all his assets, feigning a loving marriage and concealing her recent request for a divorce. How she is thwarted by the missing Lindsay is the thrill here, in an adrenaline-fuelled narrative which explores big brand designer fraud, drug smuggling and money laundering.

Gracias’ novel is a complex and convoluted story. I learned a lot. My small complaint would be that the writing doesn’t feel polished or well edited. Dialogue sometimes feels forced, and the text is repetitious in places. Events are related in a matter-of-fact way which doesn’t allow for much emotional connection with the characters. The “dogboy” sections are intriguing but they don’t advance the plot and I didn’t quite grasp why the author chose to use them, other than to create a catchy title. But other readers may disagree. Gracias is clearly a talented writer who, I suspect, has more excellent yarns up his sleeve. On the whole I enjoyed the novel and would recommend it on the basis of its plot which deviates from the usual crime narrative.

Book Review 📚
Dogboy Vs Catfish by Luke Gracias - 4.5/5 ⭐

I was intrigued by this book based on the cover (stunning by the way) and title. I didn't read the blurb and went in blind. To say it was utterly amazing is a huge understatement. I was so engrossed and entertained throughout.

Gracias has such a terrific writing technique, it's truly awe inspiring. He created scenes with depth and description like you can't even believe. It was so descriptive and beautifully done. The characters were phenomenal and the world building was fantastic.

The story itself was gripping! Once I started reading, I could not finish until I was done. It was such an amazing piece of work and I was lost for words throughout most of the story. The plot was well thought of and the authors note at the beginning made the world of difference.

Don't miss out on this one. Thank you to NetGalley and Dialogue Books for allowing me to read this ARC - this is an HONEST review from my own personal opinion.

I loved this book. The title gave nothing much away! In actual fact it proved to be most entertaining and I scrambled through the pages quickly to keep up with the exciting plot!

Luke Gracias has delivered a creative and exciting plot that I found surprisingly educational. I now know a little more about a variety of subjects like “cross border crime”; “terms of divorce”; “money-laundering”; “drug-dealing” and “designer goods fraud”. I also loved the visual locations of Thailand and Australia.

I will definitely read more books by this author!

When I first read the title, Dogboy v Catfish, I thought that it sounded silly, and was skeptical as to whether I would enjoy the book. I hope others are not turned off by it, as this novel about crime and deception is anything but inane.


Millionaire Lindsay “Dogboy” Kramer vanishes close to the eighteen-month mark of his marriage to a former Miss Australia finalist Katherine “Catfish” Fisher. She is a popular social media influencer and owns a designer clothing and accessory shop. This is her second marriage, as her first husband supposedly committed suicide in Thailand.


First, Katherine files for divorce, but her high-priced attorney feels that something just isn’t right. Weeks after his disappearance, Katherine claims that he is dead and wants access to his bank accounts and assets. That’s when the story gets interesting.


A Melbourne detective and inspector investigating the disappearance also feel something is shady. When Katherine finds that she can’t get her hands on the money, she uses her social media influence to try and change the legal system.


The two officers find more than what they bargained for, which takes them to Bangkok. What ensues is a whirlwind of drug smuggling, gun running, money laundering and murder.


In addition to the family law attorney with a conscience, there are a host of other fascinating characters that add depth to the story.


It is important that you read the “Author’s Note” following the story. Author Luke Gracias discloses his motivation for writing the book, and how a friend’s divorce and attempted suicide provided the basis for the book. The author also claims that the Australian family court system usually favors the women, some of whom are unscrupulous and set out to abuse the system. He believes that there is a connection to why seven out of nine suicide victims in Australia are men.


As I am unfamiliar with Australian family law and legal system, I can only attest that this fast-paced story will keep you engaged until the last page.

(The review has been posted on UnderratedReads)

This book was not what I was expecting at all and in a great way!!! This book is may seem to have a simple plot right from the start but then things quickly morph into a more complicated thriller.

Lindsay "Dogboy" Kramer finally thinks he found his forever love with Katharine "Catfish" Fisher. But once the marriage is close to the 18 month mark, Catfish as no intentions of staying with her husband and just wants the money. But don't count Lindsay out, as he is far smarter than his wife believes and is always one step ahead. I was. immediately caught up in this story and was turning pages as fast as I could read them. I enjoyed the characters that were Brough out in this story as they were relatable. The police officers that are used were diligent and the author didn't make them ridiculously smart or extra. The friends that are supportive of Lindsay are loyal and realistic. The book will make you go back and forth on if the main character is alive or dead.

This was the first book I have read by this author and it will not be the last. The writing was spot on and engaging. Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.

An attractive woman approaches a family lawyer with a view to starting divorce proceedings after only less tan a year and a half of marriage to a rich, successful businessman. Almost simultaneously he goes missing. The police investigating the disappearance soon conclude that not all is as it seems. Soon an intrigue develops around counterfeit goods and money laundering related to the woman's high end designer goods business.. An intriguing and complex plot, based partly on the Australian law which entitles the woman to at least half of a couple's assets, more if they have children, after 18 months of marriage.. Its well written and moves along at pace, a rattling good read.

"Dogboy v Catfish" by Luke Gracias is a gripping and fast-paced thriller that delves into the intriguing world of counterfeit designer goods, money laundering, and drug smuggling.

Gracias does an excellent job of weaving a complex and suspenseful plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story is rife with unexpected twists and turns, and the author's meticulous attention to detail adds an authentic touch to the technological aspects of the narrative. The characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, adding depth and diversity to the narrative.

The pacing of the novel is relentless, with each chapter building upon the tension of the previous one. The author's writing style is crisp and engaging, making it a page-turner that is difficult to put down. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, adding to the overall immersive experience.

In conclusion, "Dogboy v Catfish" is a captivating thriller. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers, this book is definitely worth a read.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review a captivating thriller!!!!!

The book title is odd and the cover has snakes. So I expected an odd story. But the story was actually a good one. Sometimes people marry and it just doesn't work out. And sometimes it is just a ploy to get rich quick. The story is full of twists, turns and revelations. I enjoyed the book.

Well, this book is just a fun ride. Between the nick names for the two main characters, to how truly twisted both of them really are. This is a book that that is fast paced and it will keep you wondering really what is happening throughout. Readers will get swept up in world where everything is not what it seems and the layers of deceit run deep.
Thank you to Luke Gracias and Netgalley for allowing me to read a copy of this title

I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. I wasn't familiar with the author but I liked the title. I loved the book! I would make take 1/2 star off because it got a little slow with the details of the scam. I loved the characters. Lindsay-Dogboy-was strange from the start. I could see him as a loner computer geek, but the way dogs reacted to him was totally amazing. Kath-Catfish-was the perfect devious easy-to-hate female lead. She had no redeeming qualities. I couldn't wait for bad things to happen to her. The two lawyers were good lawyers, trying to do the right thing, as were the two detectives. I think the detectives were as confused by the scam as I was. The plot was intriguing. From the day influencer Kath married Lindsay-her second husband after her first "committed suicide"-she was planning her divorce. In 18 months she would be entitled to half their assets plus support. While she was waiting she had her own laundering scam going to bring in more money. When the detectives went to Thailand you got excitement, subterfuge, and danger. With Kath being an influencer, the power of the internet came into play. It showed how the masses will fall for most anything. The afterword by the author brought meaning to the book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and hope to read more by Lucas Gracias.

Special thanks to the author and NetGalley for a free, electronic copy of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
“Dogboy v Catfish” is the newest novel by author Luke Gracias and it is very, very different from his previous novel series (“The Devil’s Prayer”, “No Shadow Without Light”). His previous novels had a creepy, paranormal vibe and although “Dogboy” was unsettling, it was for entirely different reasons.
Katherine Fisher (“Catfish”) lost her first husband to suicide years ago. Now, she is looking to settle down again with successful (i.e., rich) businessman Lindsay Kramer, a.k.a “Dogboy”. Katherine knows that after eighteen months of marriage, she will be entitled to everything Lindsay has, which will then allow Katherine to file for divorce and feel confident in the lifestyle she can provide for herself and her daughter, Emma. But just weeks into their marriage, Lindsay disappears and Katherine sees her future slowly disappearing. As Katherine scrambles to try and get her hands on her husbands’ assets as quickly as she can the police quickly discover that Katherine has many reasons for wanting her husband dead- and she is soon the prime suspect.
The novel starts off with an investigation into the missing Lindsay. The two investigators interrogate Katherine and instantly see that something is not quite right. Then, the second portion takes an entirely different track and we follow the police as they try and uncover a counterfeit products ring. This section was quite detailed, exploring the how’s and what’s of the production, shipping and importation of counterfeit high-end products. It is relevant to the story, and eventually we figure this out, but at the time it seemed to be completely off-track and I wasn’t sure where Gracias was going with the plot line. The final part of the novel ties it all together and finally, the Lindsay plot line is re-examined. “Dogboy” has a conclusive and satisfying ending, but it took a heck of a convoluted path to get there.
Katherine is an unlikable character but she was written that way. Although Lindsay is not featured in the novel all that often, his relationship with dogs speaks to the nature of his character. I was curious as to what exactly happened to Lindsay, and I cared enough about him to follow Gracias’ plot detours and get to the end.
“Dogboy” is based on events that happened to a friend of Gracias’, so there is a sense of realism with the plot, and it is obviously well-researched. I wanted more Lindsay, less fake Gucci bag production tips. This is the third novel I’ve read by Gracias, and I always appreciate when he sends his newest work my way.

Dogboy v Catfish by Luke Gracias was an unexpected, surprisingly good read. Initially thrown by the title, the story itself offers something for every reader. While dog whisperer Lindsay (Dogboy) Kramer apparently marries Katharine (Catfish) Fisher for love, Manipulative Katharine marries with a plan to divorce Lindsay in 18 months in order to get access to his money, following the Australian divorce laws of the time. However, when Lindsay goes missing an investigation ensues, uncovering secrets long-buried. I am always searching for unique storylines, and this book is definitely unique. It is a suspenseful mystery with love-to-hate characters, It was a great escapist read by an author I intend to follow.

Thank you Netgalley for the advanced digital copy. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.