Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

In Josh Boldt’s novel “Moneymaker,” readers are thrust into a heart-pounding, action-packed narrative filled with suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. Set in 1997, this gripping Southern crime novel takes place two decades before the events of Boldt’s previous work, “Slurry.” 

Here’s my take:

Navy veteran Mack Abbott, now a private surveillance expert, finds himself entangled in a dangerous web while tracking a drug shipment in Savannah. Ruthless smugglers stop at nothing to protect their illicit product. Abbott’s sole connection in town is Avery Calloway, an exotic dancer with questionable motives and a taste for the smugglers’ wares. As their relationship deepens, danger closes in around them.

My Review:

Character Depth: Boldt masterfully unveils the layers of Mack Abbott. His transition from military life to civilian surveillance work is fraught with tension, vulnerability, and moral ambiguity. Abbott’s flaws make him relatable, and his determination keeps us rooting for him.

Setting: Savannah comes alive—the sultry nights, the murky waters, and the underbelly of crime. The city becomes a character itself, adding depth to the story.

Avery Calloway: The enigmatic dancer adds intrigue. Is she an ally or a double agent? Her chemistry with Abbott sizzles, but trust remains elusive.

The plot races forward, fueled by suspenseful twists. Boldt keeps readers guessing, never allowing complacency.

“Moneymaker” explores loyalty, identity, and the blurred lines between good and bad. It’s a gritty examination of choices and consequences.

Boldt’s prose is sharp, evocative, and unapologetically Southern. He captures the humidity, the tension, and the desperation.

Moneymaker is a rollercoaster ride through the criminal underbelly. Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction or simply crave a thrilling read, this novel delivers. Dive into Mack Abbott’s early years, and unravel the mysteries that shape his future.

Please accept this as my official resignation from reading this genre of books.

I am tired of reading about a man who works ambiguously for criminals, but don't worry he's a good guy really (trust me, even though he doesn't do much to prove it apart from NOT murder a couple dudes). He meets a woman whos only characteristic is that she wants to fuck him, he's not like other guys, he treats her with respect! She is conveniently sexy, and uses her body to help the main character and really really loves snorting coke, because we've never seen that written before. The only other woman in this novel is the wife of a criminal who just loves him and wishes he would stop doing crime, that's literally it.

Besides from my anger directed towards the reductive way in which the author has written about women (bears noting that he's a man), the plot is simple, and hardly even resolved at the end. Normally in these books you get a few plot twists throw in there, shake things up bit, but for a story that is action packed about drugs and crime etc, it was just incredibly boring. Felt as though we were going through the motions.

I don't like to give out bad reviews; I believe that all books deserve respect and an appreciation of the work and effort the author has put into, and dedicated to their novel. I also believe that all texts have a place in the world and often if I dislike a book. it is partially down to the fact that I am the wrong reader. However a review is a review, it is subjective, I will be honest.

Bottom line: please write women better.

This was a great story we have Mack who is supposed to just do surveillance though things go south and Mack and Andy his friend are left to defend themselves and figure out what exactly is going on.

This reminded me of Max Payne so much but the video game not the movie and I really liked Mack and Avery together. This is my first time reading anything from Josh Boldt though I got to say it was a really good read with lots of action, laughs, and oh no moments that it keeps you engaged.