Product Description
Confess, Fletch

The flight from Rome had been pleasant enough, even if the business he was on wasn’t exactly. His Italian fianc?e’s father had been kidnapped and presumably murdered, and Fletch is on the trail of a stolen art collection that is her only patrimony.But when he arrives in his apartment to find a dead body, things start to get complicated.

Confess, Fletch

Inspector Flynn found him a little glib for someone who seemed to be the only likely suspect in a pretty clear case of homicide. He wasn’t exactly uncooperative, but it wasn’t like he was entirely forthcoming either. And Flynn wasn’t entirely convinced that the nineteenth-century Western artist Edgar Arthur Tharp really occupied most of Fletch’s thoughts.

Confess, Fletch

With the police on his tail and a few other things to do beside prove his own innocence, Fletch makes himself at home in Boston, renting a van, painting it black, and breaking into a private art gallery. That is when he’s not “entertaining” his future mother-in-law
and visiting with the good Inspector Flynn and his family. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Fletch Hits Boston
CONFESS, FLETCH by Gregory McDonald pits Fletch against Francis Xavier Flynn. Arriving from Italy to research do research on a book the first thing discovers is the nude body of a beautiful young woman on the living room floor of the apartment he has leased for three months.
Enter Inspector Flynn who is the only inspector on the Boston police force. It is an open and shut case--Fletch is the only possible killer. A battle of wits and skills ensure between Fletch and Flynn as the fun begins.
A fantastic afternoon of pure reading pleasure.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

We know you did it
Fletch turns up in Boston claiming to be researching for his forthcoming biography of Edgar Arthur Tharp Jnr. the famous artist. He's left his fiancee in Italy while she deals with her dad's kidnapping and apparent death and is a little taken aback when he finds a young dead girl in the apartment he's arranged to stay in. All of the evidence points to Fletch as the culprit and an unusual police detective called Flynn eyes him with suspicion but just can't bring himself to make the arrest.

I would have enjoyed Confess, Fletch more had the stakes been higher, but the plot is all about paintings which is too low-key and hardly creates mental images that are likely to stay with you. The procedure of solving the mystery isn't too rewarding either as it seems to be all over the place until the final twenty pages. I ought to be familiar with Fletch's methods by now, but the entire book seems to be Fletch driving around, getting in and out of cars, and having cryptic conversations with mostly bland characters. The only saving grace is Flynn who turns out to much deeper than I first expected.

I'd call this the second weakest of the Fletch series (Carioca Fletch has been the poorest so far), but is still worthy of your attention even if your a casual fan. I hope that Fletch's Fortune is better (I'm reading them in chronological order, not publish order).

A Fun Read
Confess, Fletch is a good time.It feels much more like a Fletch read, along with the introduction of Inspector Flynn.It's a well-crafted whodunit and Macdonald's writing still seems edgy and fun.

Very Good Book
Well, I'm glad I read this book after giving up on "Carioca Fletch" (hint:stay away from that book).This is a very good book that grabs your attention and keeps it all the way through.The one thing I didn't like about the book (and it might just be a function of the genre and not a fault specific to the book) is that the "solution" to the mystery is not one that you really have any stake in finding.Essentially, you're hit with more information at the very end of the book which gives you a surprise ending.That aside, it's still a very good, fun book that's well worth reading.

Another Fletch winner
I don't like it when reviewers reveal plot points, so I won't.Suffice to say, if you like other Fletch books, you will like Confess, Fletch.If you haven't read any Fletch boosk, you might want to start with Fletch, which was adapted into a funny movie starring Chevy Chase. ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch’s Fortune

He hadn’t been a practicing journalist for years, although people remembered him and he still has a few contacts. And he’s pretty sure he hasn’t paid his dues to the American Journalism Alliance anytime recently. But somebody has.

Fletch’s Fortune

Enjoying himself on the French Riviera, developing a killer tan, and sleeping with the neighbor’s wife, Fletch is feeling pretty flush. But when agents Eggers and Fabens show up with a little more information about Fletch than is comfortable and an invitation to the A.J.A. convention, how could he refuse?

Fletch’s Fortune

So he finds himself enlisted as a spy among his peers. But before he can even set up his surveillance, there’s a murder. And almost everybody’s a suspect. Because a lot of people were employed by Walter March, and most of them had a reason to hate him. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Convention of Death
The CIA will go to any lengths of obtain information on members of the fourth estate. Fletch is blackmailed to bug a convention of his fellow journalists with treats of jail time for not paying income taxes.
Before Fletch arrives in Virginia Walter Marsh, president of the American Journalism Alliance. The grand old man is not the beloved patriarch as portrayed by his grieving spouse. Fletch discovers many of his colleagues have had their careers destroy or hampered by the power Marsh exerts on the industry.
The ending of this one is unpredictable, but it lacks the sparkle of the first two for which McDonald won Edgar awards. FLETCH'S FORTUNE is still a good read.
Nash Black, author of QUALIFYING LAPS.

Just ok - 3.5 stars (I've read all the Fletch Novels)
I like Gregory McDonald's Fletch novels (particularly the first ones) - I've read everything by McDonald, including the Flynn and Skylar novels.

Fletch's Fortune lands near the bottom of the list for Fletch novels, so if you're just starting out with Fletch, I suggest starting elsewhere.

If you're like me, and want to read the entire canon, then you'll find some of the classic Fletch wit, and some familiar zingers in here. And, in fact, the story starts out great - Fletch gets blackmailed by the CIA to spy on journalists. It sets up a larger-than-life scenario: An international media mogul is murdered, creating the biggest murder mystery in American history.

But as the story develops, it comes nowhere near its potential. In fact, 70-80% of the book hovers around just 3 or 4 central characters. No huge investigation. No meddling police detectives. No secret service, CIA or FBI interference. No national or global media coverage. No competition for Fletch to solve the murder. In fact, the story is just downright implausible. For all its pomp and circumstance in the opening chapters, it turns into a very hum-drum who-dunnit. It definitely does not deliver on its promise.

So my recommendations:

This novel is just ok - I still enjoyed parts of it. Definitely stay away from both Skylar novels - they are absolutely awful, and loaded with some pretty offensive Bill O'Reilly-style racism and sexism. Also stay away from the last two Flynn novels (a *real* disappointment, since I started out liking Flynn even more than Fletch).

The Fletch/Flynn novel, Confess Fletch, is probably the best in the canon. The first 3 novels - Fletch, Carioca Fletch, and Fletch Too - are all terrific. All the other Fletch novels (Widow Bradley, Moxie, etc) all land in the 3.5-4 star range.

Enjoy!

Another winner from Gregory Mcdonald


Irwin Maurice Fletcher, everyone's favorite independently wealthy journalist, con artist, author, art researcher, and sleuth (not necessarily in that order), once again finds himself caught between a rock and a hard place -- this time the "rock" being the CIA, the IRS, and the threat of prison for tax evasion ... and the "hard place" being a national journalism convention at which Fletch has been forced to spy on his former colleagues. Things only get more complicated when prominent publisher Walter March is found lying face up with a pair of scissors in his back -- and all the conventioneers are trying to beat the police to the scoop.

The third volume in Gregory Mcdonald's delightful Fletch series, Fletch's Fortune is as fresh and engaging as the two Edgar Award-winning novels that preceded it. Mcdonald's excellent storytelling skills are on display, as the book is chock full of snappy dialogue, quirky characters, and clever twists and turns along the way. I dare you to put it down.

the funniest Fletch
Fletch is irreverent, clever, a tarnished white knight. In this mystery, he's in trouble with a lot of people, but you know that he'll turn the tables on all of them in the end. With the help of another reporter, a character that's as funny as he is, Fletch saves the day once more. A book that will make your family wonder why you are laughing out loud all by yourself. Highly recommended.

Fletch's Fortune is a Winner
Another great book in the Fletch series. Fletch's failure to pay income taxes forces him to spy on his fellow jounralists. Of course, there is a dead body and Fletch has an investigation to pursue. Great dialogue, a true treat for Fletch fans. ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch Won

As a fledgling reporter, Fletch is doing more flailing than anything else. That and floating around from department to department trying to figure where he fits in. His managing editor’s got him pegged for the society pages, but the kind of society Fletch gets involved with is anything but polite.

Fletch Won

His first big interview, a millionaire lawyer with a crooked streak and an itch to give away some of his ill-gotten gains, ends up dead in the News-Tribune’s parking lot before Fletch can ask question number one. So Fletch ends up going after the murderer instead, and ends up learning a thing or two about crime and punishment.

Fletch Won

At the same time, he’s supposed to be covering (or maybe uncovering) a health spa that caters to all its clients needs, and gets hired as a very personal trainer. Never mind that he’s supposed to be getting married at the end of the week; Fletch has a few other engagements to take care of first. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Fletch will Lay Claim on Your Funny Bone
FLETCH WON by Gregory McDonald is the first in story time of this delightful series. Murder yes, right in the parking lot of the newspaper where Fletch is trying to shore up his first journalism employment.
You will laugh your way through this comic routine until the final page. The conclusion is a masterful scene by an excellent writer.
Put this Fletch novel on your to read first, which is not the way Mr. McDonald wrote the stories.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

Brought me back
This brought me back and restored my faith in Gregory McDonald, especially after the dreadful Fletch and the Widow Bradley, and Fletch and the Man Who.The pacing returned, the story didn't feel like it had been phoned in, and the comic situations and Fletch's irreverence were all fresh and new again.

Fletch is back!
Irwin Maurice Fletcher -- Gregory McDonald's irrepressible Fletch -- has entertained millions of readers since his first appearance in the Edgar Award-winning novel Fletch, ten years ago.Now in Fletch Won, Gregory McDonald creates a masterful new mystery that takes readers back to the very beginnings of his career.

It's Fletch's first case.As a rookie reporter for the News-Tribune, he's been covering all the routine stories no one else wants.With his already slightly skewed view of the world the young Fletch only manages to get himself and the paper into trouble -- more trouble than his boss thinks he's worth.As a last chance, he's assigned to the society page to cover the story of Donald Habeck, a wealthy criminal lawyer who wants to donate $5 million to the local art museum.

It's a simple public relations feature -- until Habeck turns up dead in the parking lot of the News-Tribune and Fletch gets the opportunity he's been waiting for.

Digging into the case, Fletch turns up a glut of suspects.First there is Habeck's unhappy family:the certifiably crazy wife, an impoverished daughter, an avant-garde Poet of Violence, and the son who despised the old man so much he became a monk.Then there are Habeck's former clients, including a convicted child molester just out of prison and a man who once faced a murder rap and now confesses to every violent crime in the city.And underneath it all, there's the nagging, unanswered question:Why would Habeck, a man who made a fortune keeping society's lowest out of prison, suddenly become a do-good philanthropist?

As Fletch outruns the cops, the crime reporter of the News-Tribune, the seductive hostess of the Ben Franklyn Friend Service (more than just an escort agency), a refugee from the Federal Witness Protection Program, and his own fiancee, he finally stumbles across the clue that can break the case wide open -- and launch his legendary career.

Fletch's first hardcover appearance in ten years, Fletch Won is cause for celebration.McDonald's clever repartee and breakneck pacing have never been more finely honed.The story of the wise-cracking young reporter's debut, it is sure to delight his loyal fans . . . and as an intriguing whodunit, certain to enthrall all lovers of mystery.

Fletch's first case
Gregory MacDonald sure wrote the Fletch books in a confusing order. Despite this being about the 8th Fletch book, chronologically it's the first.

In this story Fletch has only been working at the News-Tribune for a few months and is getting less and less respect from Frank each day as his sarcasm and pranks are riling everybody up. Frank shifts Fletch from one section of the newspaper to the next, never knowing where he's going to cause the least trouble. Some local lawyer wants an interview to announce that he's giving 5 million dollars to a museum and Fletch is to run the (small) story. Trouble is, the lawyer, one Donald Habeck, is killed in the News-Tribune parking lot almost that very second.

Frank pulls Fletch of the story right away gives it to a big bully who's been with the paper for years. Fletch is now left with investigating some whorehouse and that he does. But he's not giving up on the Habeck story as the circumstances seem mighty suspicious, especially when he finds out that the firm Habeck worked for is probably the most crooked law firm on the planet.

It's fast-paced and full of witty, and sometimes odd, dialogue and neat little gimmicks and ironies. Fletch's detective work and level-headedness provide a sense of balance in relation to all the wierd and eccentric characters around him. And the crooked cops and authorities seem right out of a James Ellroy book. I did find a few anachronisms though. If this is set before the first Fletch book then surely there wouldn't be carphones and computers in every office. At least not a computer thats not as big as the office itself. It's a tiny little complaint though.

A good read and an involving mystery. Fletch is the best unsung hero of crime fiction.

Good Weekend Read
I enjoyed this book pretty well.I've seen the Fletch movies and I'm a huge fan of both, but I've never read the Fletch books.I thought I'd start with this one.The author seemed to begin to delve into some other storylines and then stopped.We were intorduced to characters that were unimportant to the story.I think maybe he was trying to use up page space or something.Anyway, the book was entertaining at best.I gave it 4 stars because I don't think the author meant it to be anything other than entertaining! ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch

He’s an investigative reporter whose methods are a little unorthodox. Currently he’s living on the beach with the strung-out trying to find to the source of the drugs they live for.

Fletch

He’s taking more than a little flack from his editor. She doesn’t appreciate his style. Or the expense account items he’s racking up. Or his definition of the word deadline. Or the divorce lawyers who keep showing up at the office.

Fletch

So when multimillionaire Alan Stanwyk offers Fletch the job of a lifetime, which could be worth a fortune, he’s intrigued and decides to do a little investigation.What he discovers is that the proposition is anything but what it seems. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Mcdonald Was a Genius!
If you are reading Fletch for the first time or re-reading Fletch years later, you're reading a classic in mystery and satire. This book never disappoints. Mcdonald's writing is clean and crisp and reads like a script... In fact, Gregory McDonald was/is a screenwriter's dream when it comes to dialogue. Intriguing from the opening page where I.M. Fletcher is accosted on the beach by Alan Stanwyk who offers a proposition for murder... his own of course... from there the story unravels with surprising set-ups and pay-offs. I had read that Gregory Mcdonald, being a self-discribed post-cinematic writer, thought that readers have been exposed to so many images through movies that prolix for a writer was unnecessary-- this is a principal that George V. HigginsThe Friends of Eddie Coyle: A Novel, another great crime writer, understood and applied as well.

Fletch won a 1975 Edgar Allan Poe Award, for Best First Novel, from the Mystery Writers of America. The sequel, Confess, Fletch, also won an Edgar Award, for Best Paperback Original, in 1977. As Mcdonald's official website notes: "The only time a novel and its sequel won back-to-back Edgars."

Last time I checked Fletch [Blu-ray] the movie was holding at 75% on Rotten Tomatoes and there is talk of a remake...

Hollywood hear me now! There is no way to screw up this remake, not with this material.

Brilliant.
I bought this book as a paperback more than twenty years ago, and didn't finish it. Apparently my taste has changed, because I not only finished it--I also found it highly entertaining. This novel is constructed almost exclusively of dialogue. The small amount of narrative it contains isn't as well done, but it doesn't distract from the story. The plot, sub-plots and characters, were cleverly woven together in a comic fashion that I found most enjoyable. A couple of things bothered me: throwing the cat out the window, and hanging out with a fifteen-year-old girl. I doubt those would go over well these days. And plausibility is stretched to the limit, but never caused me to suspend disbelief. All in all, one of the best mysteries I've ever read.

One note about the Kindle version: there are no breaks between scenes, other than chapter breaks. It all runs together. But that didn't bother me, as I was able to figure it out, when the dialogue didn't match the current scenes.

Beach Bum Reporter
FLETCH by Gregory McDonald introduces mystery fans to I.M. Fletcher, better known as Fletch who has his own methods of researching a news story.
Posing as a drug-out beach bum he is approached by a man in a suit with an unusual request. Allan Stanwyk seeks to end his life before he dies of cancer and his chosen method is to have Fletch kill him. All the plans are made and Fletch has one week to decide if this is the crime of the century or a scam.
An excellent read with a fun character.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

do not buy this
i found myself forcing myself to read this book. it was very boring. when i finished it i was relieved of a heavy burden

A 70's time capsule noir thriller with a strong dry humor lining
Because I had seen (and enjoyed) the Chevy Chase version, I was hesitant to approach this series but felt that so much time had passed that the details would be relatively forgotten.

What a refreshing read.I took this down in only two sittings, as it is a relatively short book which just speeds along due in large part to the talents of the writer.The plot is a great balance of noir with humor, clearly has a 70's level of morality - which will probably offend a few, but was interesting to me in a 'time capsule' sort of way.I was still picturing Chevy, but the protagonist is actually pretty different though his sense of dry and somber delivery was nearly perfectly matched.I highly recommend this to readers of crime fiction, it definately stands out despite the years that have passed since written.Few books are as cleverly conceived, and most don't hold up thoughout.

This one was a standout.I put this down a couple of times on a plane ride, but had to pick it right back up and had to ignore my surrounds.It catches you like a fever and you will not find a good reason to drop it.Do yourself a favor and give it a try.
... Read more

Product Description
In Fletch’s Moxie, the prolific Gregory Mcdonald tests his incomparable investigative journalist once again with a caper that is as perfectly plotted as Fletch is brilliant.

It seems just about everyone in Hollywood had a reason to want Steve Peterman dead. But how someone managed to put a knife in his back on a live broadcast without being seen is anyone’s guess. Unfortunately for Fletch, his girlfriend, Moxie Mooney, a huge star at the box office, is also the number one suspect. With the police asking way too many questions, Fletch whisks Moxie and her drunken father, O.L., off to Key West for a little privacy. But before he can even check out the beach, the rest of the suspects decide to check in. Now, in a house full of Hollywood’s elite, Fletch is increasingly amazed at how ruthless the movie business can be. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Fletch is in for a spin.
Gregory McDonald's FLETCH'S MOXIE is a funny murder mystery with all of the stock characters of Hollywood trying to make a film. Who killed an agent on stage for a live TV interview with the entire world as witnesses?
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

One of the better Fletch books
I'd probably give this book 4.5 out of 5 (As 'Fletch', 'Fletch Won', and perhaps 'Fletch and the Widow Bradley' would need at least .5 stars above any other Fletch book), but I digress. This was the last Fletch book I read and really enjoyed it. As with every Fletch book the beginning and middle don't find too much going on, but the end gives you a one-two punch. Some people might harp that any book that is 2/3 set-up and 1/3 meaty story is a waste of 2/3 of a book, but I'm a fan of that anticipation.

All in all if you are looking for a typical Fletch, 'who done it?' book, and don't mind a slow initial set-up this is for you. Setting this apart from some of the lesser interesting Fletch books (ie. 'Carioca Fletch' and 'Fletch and the Man Who' IN MY OPINION), this book's ending is well worth the read (just like the first 3 great Fletch books I listed).

one of the best
Having read some of the Fletch mysteries and having seen the movies, I think Fletch's Moxie is the best if you are looking for a mystery. All of the Fletch series is entertaining. This one has less laughs than Fletch's Fortune (which I think is the funniest I've read so far) but Moxie has a really interesting plot and I bet you won't guess who-dun-it. A good read.

Fletch rules!
He has done it again. Another adventure with Fletch moves you from your reading sofa to a whole different world. Forgetting the time, forgetting the space and only hoping that the next page wont be the last. I trulyrecommend this book to anyone who likes the fantasies of Fletch. ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch Reflected

Fletch’s newfound son Jack has just heard from an old flame who’s about to marry a billionaire’s son—that is until her future father-in-law suffers several near-fatal accidents.

Fletch Reflected

The potential victim—the inventor of the perfect mirror, which allows people to see themselves exactly as others do—lives in his own secluded compound, so Jack gets a job as pool hand on the estate to get closer to the action.

Fletch Reflected

Now Jack's life may be in danger, and he will need his inimitable father's help to discover—before it's too late—whose reflection hides a killer's heart. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Dull and Worn
Gregory McDonald's FLETCH REFLECTED is the end of the story line (I think), but not the last written. This one lacks the sharp dialogue one associated with the Fletch novels.
It features Fletch's son in a southern compound of great wealth and deep hatred. The story just doesn't work for a Fletch.
Nash Black, author of HAINTS.

For those expecting a page-turner, look elsewhere.
I like Gregory McDonald's work -- really.McDonald's not Robert B.Parker, but you can generally count on a Fletch novel to move along at areasonably brisk pace and provide the wit that's become such an integralpart of the detective-protagonist in the modern mystery genre.That's whyI was so dissapointed in Fletch Reflected. I saw somewhat of a decline inSon of Fletch, but that book looks like a masterpiece when compared to thisloose sequel.

For my money, the central plot is far less interesting tome than character development and interaction. In a very un-McDonald-likeway, both Fletch and his son Jack -- the two central characters -- seemflat, as though they are there only to move the plot along.Of course,there are a few witty lines, but they don't come with the frequency orconsistency needed to support the novel or engage the reader.

The problemprobably begins with the plot itself. From the onset of the book, I didn'tbuy it. I couldn't fathom why Jack would get involved in the story; theproper motivation simply wasn't there. Fletch's only motivation was to helpJack.

When I finally reached the end of the novel (a rather arduoustask), I was dissapointed further by a contrived ending that somehowmanaged to tie everything together too cleanly and leave unansweredquestions.Worse, the ending seemed very abrupt, as though McDonald tiredof writing the novel and just decided to end it -- which, mercifly, hedid.

Again, I like McDonald's other work-- but if you're looking for anenjoyable read, you'd be better served by looking at his older stuff. ... Read more

Product Description
When Fletch learns there are four ex-cons on the loose in his part of the county, little does he suspect that one of the scruffy and very dangerous men will claim to be the son he never knew--in fact, was never even told about. But when a muddy and bedraggled young man acosts him in his study, it doesn’t take our wily reporter and investigator long to surmise this kid might well be his son. And when Fletch meets the kid’s compatriots he wonders how either of them is going to get out of this situation unscathed. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Hi Dad
Gregory Mcdonald's SON OF FLETCH has all the biting dialogue and comic situations that makes the series a favorite of many. Yet in true Mcdonald fashion it has some serious things to say about the current ultra liberal situation where what one has been taught to believe is good is turned to an evil quest of absolute power.
Fletch discovers a son from a one-night stand who lands him in the middle of a cult/fanatic military unit who are bent on world supremacy and racial cleansing.
This is one that takes some hard reading between the lines, but doesn't demand that the reader stop having fun with the ridiculous.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

A little bit Fletch, a little bit Jack
Not the best Fletch novel by far, but not bad. The witty dialogue is there, and Fletch is at the top of his game as a reporter (in this book he works for a cable company). I can't say as I liked the son's character, Jack, nearly as much as I like Fletch--the teaser of Fletch, Resurrected at the end, which seems to focus solely on Jack, left me a little dry. The biggest problem withthis book is the wishy-washy end. It just kind of sputters out. But like I said, Fletch is so much fun to follow around it almost doesn't matter.

A major disappointment
I think McDonald was mailing it in by this point. There are elements in the beginning of this book which are enticing as any in a McDoanld book. But he seemed to be running downhill with no way to stop after awhile. Predictable bad guys, unbelievably snarled death traps (of course Fletch escapes them all) and a much more holier-than-thou attitude by Fletch's alter-ego (and love interest) than anyone could tolerate all make this a waste of money, even at 3 bucks on a used book sale. DON'T WASTE YOUAR TIME EXPECTING QUALITY. It ain't here.

A "Fletch Club" Favorite
There are readers who've waxed unkind upon such sublime, escapist fare as Gregory McDonald's "Fletch" series of mystery/comedy/ adventures. With 1993's "Son of Fletch," it's obvious what so many havehinted at for decades--yes, decades. There's a pacing here, and a necessarypassing of time; and, to long-time readers of the inimitable Fletch, dozensof most-welcomed references to previous characters and situations that themost loyal will revel in, savor. And, there's a new outlaw in the mix:Fletch's alleged son, Jack Fletcher Faoni (remeber Crystal?), if he's to bebelieved, seems a chip off the old block, indeed...It's true literary joyto witness the two attempt to figure out one another, while whisked away onanother cause-and-effect-laden fact-gathering expedition. Though it's asUN-intellectually challenging as fiction gets, McDonald scores, withdialogue fit for, well, a Chevy Chase film, charac- ters with enoughpersonality to fuel a book of their own (remember Flynn?), and areadablility that is simply not matched in American mystery writing today.Which is exactly what members of the club keep coming back for, again andagain. Bravo, Fletch. Wouldja pass the orange juice?

Wonderful!!!!
I usually don't get into mysterys but this one was amazing!I'm a fast reader, I finished this in just two days i couldn't put it down. Thank you!!! ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch and the Widow Bradley

When Fletch finds a wallet with $10,000 in cash inside, he doesn’t realize it’s the last piece of good luck he’s going to see for a while. Because when he calls in to the News-Tribune, he discovers a story he’s written is causing quite a sensation, and not the good kind. He might just be out of a job permanently.

Fletch and the Widow Bradley

If Tom Bradley, the chairman of Wagnall-Phipps and one of Fletch’s principal sources, and not incidentally, the source of his paper’s embarrassment, is dead, who’s been signing his name to company documents, and why doesn’t the company treasurer seem to know? If he’s alive, how come his widow, Enid, has Tom’s ashes on the mantel?

Fletch and the Widow Bradley

Fletch may have more questions than answers on his hands, but he knows he’s a pretty good reporter, and if he’s going to get his reputation back, not to mention his job, he’s going to have to get to the bottom of more than one mystery. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Fletch Mets a Match
In story time FLETCH AND THE WIDOW BRADLEY by Gregory Mcdonald comes before the first story FLETCH for which Mcdonald won an Edgar, but it was written later in the series which makes chronology confusing.
Fletch writes a story and is fired because the widow of the person he quote in the story says her husband has been dead for two years. Fletch doesn't have the evidence to prove his case, but his reporter's soul will not rest until he discovers all the facts.
Sharp dialogue, wit, and fast pace will keep you turning the pages.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

Anyone else confused...?
Ok, so far the book is good, (I'm not done yet but...) I just finished reading Fletch Won and Fletch Too, as I like to read in chronological order of the character/story events. In Fletch Won and Fletch Too, Irwin is engaged and subsequently married to Barbara. So I'm confused as to who this Linda he is divorced and not paying alimony too in Fletch and the Widow Bradley. I know this isn't really a review as much as it is my curiosity getting the better of me. Anyone know the answer? As for Fletch and the Widow Bradley, the diolague is great and the story is pretty fast-paced. There is definately enough going on to keep the reader interested.

'Stay away from this one'?? Are you kidding me?
This is one of my top favorite 3 Fletch books. The magical thing about that is that's my opinion (before anyone else that's read this decides I must be crazy and disagrees). If you were able to see the twist in the first 1/3 of the book kudos to you. I will admit that later on in the book when a 'mysterious character' starts coming into the picture I started to really pick up something, but that didn't stop the interesting story unfold.

I'd say Gregory Mcdonald was on top of his game with this one and would suggest it if you've only read the original 'Fletch' book (The 4th in the 'series') and like the style and want more. If you've watched... say... The movie the "Usual Suspects" and immediately figured out what was going to happen in the first 30 minutes.... You're a ridiculously clever person and you probably won't find much entertainment in the Fletch books.

One of the best Fletch books....
First, allow me to respond to the other reviews.

There are multiple mysteries/plots going on at once in this book, like many of the other early Fletch books. Sure, you may have one of the mysteries figured out (and, in fact, the nuance of the text indicates that Fletch figured it out before the readers did).

But the entire book is full of twists & turns, and that great Fletch wit and dialog. In this respect, this is one of the best Fletch books.

Also, the reader that complained about the ending must be a conservative type - you've got to be a progressive person to appreciate this book.

With that said, I strongly suggest the other *early* Fletch books, and I strongly suggest staying away from the more recent Gregory McDonald books.

Something must have happened in the author's life when he retired Fletch & started writing the Flynn & Skylar mysteries - maybe just conservatism as he was aging, who knows. But they hint at mysogyny, racism, & homophobia. The author unapologetically writes a comedic scene about Skylar's attempt to rape a woman.

I also strongly suggest staying away from the non-mysteries by McDonald - A World Too Wide & Exits and Entrances were both terribly slow & boring. And Safekeeping was a frustratingly slow novel that never really went anywhere.

The first two Flynn books (Flynn & Flynn's Inn) are probably the best - I was really looking forward to more books about this compelling character. But Buck Passes Flynn gets a little thin - a conspiracy theory book reminiscent of about a dozen movies on the same subject. And by the time he writes Flynn's World, it's downright awful. The novel lacks any of the playful dialog & wit of the first Flynn books and the Fletch books - instead, it's mostly political commentary on those darned liberals, the ACLU, and those crazy liberal colleges. It just reads like a long rant by Rush Limbaugh.

I guess it's time to say goodbye to the Flynn & Fletch that many mystery readers have grown to love. But in case you missed any of the early ones, the best books are: Fletch, Fletch Won, Fletch, Too, Confess, Fletch, Fletch's Fortune, Carioca Fletch, Fletch and the Man Who, Fletch's Moxie, and of course, the Widow Bradley. My favorite might be Confess Fletch - the first and best Flynn/Fletch novel.

'You are the weirdest person I ever met.'
Unlikely hero Fletch has been fired from the News Tribune and made a laughing stock by his peers for apparently quoting a man who is long-dead. Disgraced and with his reputation in ruin, Fletch won't give up the story and looks deeper into the shady goings-on at a small company by the name of Wagnall-Phips. At the same time he is also desperately trying to find a man by the name of James St. E Crandall and give him back his missing wallet, which just so happens to contain 25 Thousand Dollar Bills.

This was one of my favorite Fletch books so far. It just never gets boring. 'Mystery' is definitely my favorite genre and Fletch is turning into one of my favorite fictional characters. His method of investigation and puzzle-solving is genius and he most definitely deserves a pay-rise. Someone write to his boss Frank. I also find his morals and ethics rather noble and although you always spend the entire book with him you still never really know what's going on inside or what makes him tick.

It's been a long time since Gregory McDonald gaves us a new Fletch book. I've only read 4 myself, but he's such a fertile, versatile character he really could go on forever.

The book is not without its funny moments. Most of them from Fletch's deadpan mannerisms or unfortunate ironic situations. The poor guy never gets the respect, or woman, he deserves.

Reminds me of someone I know. ... Read more

Product Description
“A girl jumped off the motel’s roof.Five minutes ago.”

"Give it to me straight.Does the girl have anything to do with us?I mean, with the campaign?The presidential candidate?"

"It's your job, Fletch, to make damned sure she didn't."


FLETCH and the Man Who
When Fletch arrives as the new press representative for Governor Caxton Wheeler’s presidential campaign, he isn’t sure which mystery to solve first: what his new job actually is or why the campaign has been leaving dead women in its tracks.

FLETCH and the Man Who
He finds himself on the other side of the press, a human shield deflecting the questions he is asking himself. Are the murders just coincidence, or is a cold-hearted killer looking for a job in the White House?

FLETCH and the Man Who
When the campaign shifts into high gear, Fletch’s skills are working overtime in a desperate bid of his own to find the killer and to make sure the governor doesn’t lose any more votes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Nothing special, but enjoyable nonetheless
Like the overpraised but not terrible The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, this is a murder mystery second and a celebration of a newspaper man first. Fletch goes to work for a presidential campaign. The majority of the book talks about the scrutiny of the campaign trail, the little gestures that get blown out of proportion and the camraderie of the journalists. There are women dying throughout the book but they seem secondary to the main plot which consists of putting Fletch on the opposite side of investigative journalism as the guy who has to keep the floodgates closed.

The mystery feels like a cheat since Fletch doesn't work out the murderer's identity so much as stumble on it and there's a tired little bit at the end where Fletch tries to save someone from the murderer.

Who Ran for President?
FLETCH AND THE MAN WHO by Gregory McDonald lacks the sharp sparkling wit of the previous mysteries. Much of Fletch's character and Freddie Arbuthnot's dialogue is stale leading no where.
Fletch gets a call from his former officer to serve as the press secretary for his father's campaign for president from this point on each character seems to be more of a stereotype than a person, but before it is over five women have been killed and no one seems concerned.
This is not the best of the series.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

the nadir
This book put me off Fletch books for several years.It's wooden, slow, and every bit as bad as Fletch and the Widow Bradley.Neither of these two books show McDonald at his best.IN fact they show him at his worst.

The 'Man Who' is pleasing, if scant
If you've ever worked for a presidential campaign- particularly one in a Northeast state like New Hampshire- you'll feel the winter wind wipping at your back and the freezing snow on your feet when you read 'Fletch and the Man Who', a crisp, spot-on mystery that swirls around a presidential campaign.

Like watching 'The Royal Tenenbaums', 'Man Who' feels intentionally timeless to me- like the plot could've unfolded at any point from 1950 through the late 90's. Without relying on dated references or lame attempts at social criticism, Gregory McDonald instead places his brilliantly smarmy private eye, Fletch, in the limelight as he works to solve the murder of a girl whose body was discovered fallen out the window of the presidential candidate's hotel suite.

'The Man Who' whisks along and finishes with an exciting burst, but while the details are enjoyable, the supporting characters are uncharacteristically weak and the plot fairly straightforward, especially for McDonald.

If you're looking for a complex mystery, check out something else. But if you like your commentary subtle, your details rich, and your one-liners fast, check out 'The Man Who'. If you read it on a summer afteroon, you'll still feel the chill of the February wind.

Fletch for President
In this installment, Fletch goes to work for an American Presidential candidate after a murder in his campaign hotel.Along the way we get a lotof unique Fletch insights into the political process.This book would havemade a much better sequel for the original Fletch movie than the idiotic"Fletch Saved."Overall, an excellent entry in the Fletch saga. ... Read more

Product Description
When Boston Police Inspector Francis Xavier Flynn’s barely adolescent daughter asks him to rescue her friend Billy from the cemetery, where he’s been fastened to a tree by a nail through his earlobe, the good inspector is pretty sure there’s something more behind what at first seems like a bully’s prank. And he’s convinced there is more than mischief involved in the hateful threats against distinguished Harvard professor Louis Loveson. If that weren’t enough to keep Flynn busy, there’s Lieutenant John Kurt, whose very impressive arrest record follows some very disturbing patterns. In Flynn’s World, two-time Edgar Award-winner Gregory Mcdonald’s dogged detective confronts intolerance in all its guises, and sheds light on more than one dark secret.

F.X. Flynn made his first appearance in Confess, Fletch, where he matched wits with the inimitable Irwin Fletcher. Since then he has befuddled, bemused, amazed, and infuriated his colleagues on the Boston Police force as he has pursued international terrorists, blackmailers, murderers, embezzlers, politicians, and, occasionally, his fellow policemen—all while doing his regular job. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Substance over story
Feeling gently forced compared to the majority of the slick and breezy Fletch and Flynn novels, this one is nonetheless a can't-put-down good read. While some of the loose ends don't tie up as neatly and the dialogue never trips along as chucklingly, Flynn's World still displays McDonald's flair for character-building in high form.

With the thinnest veneer of subtlety, the book serves as a stage to tease out some real world philosophical and ethical arguments, the characters dialoguing their development or destruction in a modern day morality play. Off-putting? Not to me. The end of the book leaves me wanting an even closer view of what Flynn's made of.

I'm sure I'll read this book again. If I ever have kids, I'll hope that they will enjoy books like this and be better humans for it. And I'll hope that I can borrow them every so often.

A Fine Flynn Finish
While I understand where some others believe this to be a wee pedantic, I believe this comprises only a small part of the book.On the whole the book is highly believable, the skewering of intellectualized misbehavior spot-on, and the humanizing of and, one might say, redemption of "Grover" is worth the price tag alone.Unless you are fond of dry police procedurals, you have to take some of these fictional detectives with a grain of salt to enjoy them -- sure, Flynn's world is idealized, else he wouldn't be Flynn!

I find this book to be the perhaps the most enjoyable of all the Mcdonald books I've read so far, and highly recommend it.You've got to read it, if you're a fan of Flynn.

nice revisit, tin the end too preachy & simplistic
Interesting to see Flynn back after all these years.. definately a more seasoned MacDonald, but not his best. I would think Wise Saws to finish off the time compendeum novels might be better, but last i checked that was onoy available in e-book, for a high price.This novel brought back favorite characters, but ended up being a bit too didactic (preachy). Buck passes Flynn was my fave, along with the original Flynn, and then of cause the intro to Flynn in Confess Fletch. Flynn's Inn being the most contrived..and hardly worth the print in my estimation.. no.. if you want more Macdonald.. i actually think he was at his best in his early days.. find some of the earlier prints, than this.. Safekeeping.. M.E. Love among the Mashed Potatoes..

Supurb style--sappy story
This book was my first experience with the intrepid Inspector Flynn, who poses as a (sort of) police officer while acting as a secret agent for an unnamed international do-gooder organization. While I enjoyed reading the book, I'm not sure I'd recommend it.

If you are a fan of hard-boiled crime fiction, then this book ain't your cup o' hooch.It is not so much a mystery as a comedic political/social commentary that's been gussied up as a whodunnit.

The all-knowing and all-too-perfect Flynn must solve three different mysteries: (1) who nailed the ear of his daughter's beau to a cemetery tree (with the stoic boyfriend still attached); (2) who is threatening an old-school Harvard Professor; and (3) why is a wunderkind cop arresting only minorities? Ultimately, the answer to each of the mysteries is underwhelming and hardly seems worth the effort.The racist cop subplot feels particularly forced and out of place.It's almost like McDonald was trying to pad his word count in order to keep this from being a novella rather than a novel.

The real star of the book is the witty dialog.It takes some getting used to at first--the characters prefer to converse in olde-timey, Victorian-style dialog.I've never been to Boston, but I don't think that they talk like that.But once you fall into step with the rhythms of the speech, however, the book (much like the Fletch books) seems to glide along at a witty and amusing pace.

If you enjoy clever banter and witty insights (and who doesn't?), then you might want to give this book an afternoon of your time. If you're looking for a good story (and who isn't), then this book won't cut the proverbial mustard.

More a Political Tract Than a Mystery
Unfortunately, this book is basically a political tract and not any kind of mystery. Even worse, the politics presented just reinforce my belief in how miserable this world is due to PC. To add insult to injury, the mysteries Flynn is trying to solve are trivial (essentially there for McDonald to wrap his politics around) and Flynn's wry attitude are taken to such an extreme that they go right past "two-dimensional" and into "one-dimensional" (i.e., the characterization are worse than flat). I suppose if you're a die-hard Flynn fan, you'll want to read this. But otherwise, I'd suggest staying far away: it's just too depressing to read. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Sad and Troubling
Only recently watched the DVD and saw it was based on this book.The film was overall so sad and disturbing, I wanted to know more about Rafael.So, I bought the book on amazon. The book was a page turner, except for the times I had to set it down for a minute, in order to go on reading.

The film- directed, written by and starring Johnny Depp is great.Many details were changed, but the main characters, location and circumstances are left intact.I appreciate and applaude the fact that he took on the difficult task of turning this book into a movie.

The book is a heart breaking story, I hope,(and pray) totally fictional. A very young man, alcoholic since childhood, is married and the father of three.He has realized that he can't beat the disease of alcoholism or the extreme poverty he has known all of his life.He thinks he has found a way to get his family, and the other residents of Morgantown, out of the desperate, hopeless situation.But, he is willing to make the greatest sacrifice to do so.

The character of Rafael in the book is so innocent and naive.He loves his wife and children so much.He is an honorable, decent soul.So tragic those he ends up dealing with are not.

I haven't read any other books by Gregory McDonald.I understand this a total departure from his usual style.

I do recommend this book.And of course, the movie.

The Brave
I lent my copy out and it wasn't returned, so am buying a replacement.I am not a collector of books normally, but this book is an exception.I don't necessarily go back and re-read it, I simply have to glance at the title on the bookshelf and six years later it floods memories.I need that reminder.I also need a copy to lend out to others!

I do not live the lifestyle portrayed in the book but I do know that adject poverty exists.It exists while I live comfortably and really don't want for much.

This book had a strong impact on me.Assume you have read the synopsis, and maybe some of the other reviews, and I don't need to repeat the premise of the book.One point I don't see mentioned is that of a man being his word.The reader understands that the contract is worthless, his family will get nothing upon his death, but Raphael doesn't even suspect that, he trusts.Raphael took the $200 and then two days later took the bus to the end of life.He could have taken the $200 and never have gone to the bus. Was it because he was naive?Did he think that they would pursue him and his family if he didn't show up? Is it because he believed them, and the contract, and the need to pursue a better life for his children was strongest?Some people say the book is depressing; it is at times but it is also an insight into a person whose word was his honor--about the only thing he had going.

Nice Little Surprise
I was first introduced to The Brave through Johnny Depp's film adaptation of the same title. I thought that the idea of somebody making the "ultimate sacrifice" for his family by more or less selling himself to be used in a snuff film was a very interesting one. I ended up loving the movie and decided that I needed to read the book, so I did. And it was very good.

The book isn't particularly long, but it manages to tell a very touching story. I won't write a full synopsis because there are plenty of them online. What I will say is that The Brave is a great reminder of the fact that there are people all over the world who literally live in utter filth while the rest of the world just goes on its merry way. The Brave is based around the despair and desperation of such a horrible living situation and the effects it can have on people.

One of the things that most intrigued me about The Brave was the infamous third chapter in which our protagonist, Rafael, is told in gory detail, precisely what will happen to him during the making of the snuff film. While this chapter certainly contained some nasty descriptions, it ended up not really being as bad as a lot of people have made it out to be. The only way I can imagine somebody being really disturbed by the chapter's contents were if this person had lived in a cardboard box all his/her life. Seriously, you can see worse stuff on TV nowadays.

Although the "intense third chapter was ultimately a bit of a let down, the book itself was fantastic. It tells a great story and has some great characters who I actually sympathized with. If the story's premise interests you in the slightest and you're not a squeamish pansy who can't even take the sight of a stubbed toe, you should definitely consider picking this one up.

Same book as "The Last Day's ofRapheal"?
I believe this is the same book as "The Last Day's of Rapheal."It's really a shame that this book which can only be described as a horror story, actually happens from time to time among people who see no real hope of future.By whatever name, its a tremendous heads-up to people who don't like to think poverty on the reservations still exists. Very nice job of the movie version to - congrats Johnny Depp.You felt the whip!

The Brave (the book)
This is one of the most compelling, heart-wrenching yet poignant books that I have read in a long time. It was very good at telling a story about the conditions some people live under day after day and what one of them chose to do to help his family out of their situation. Could not put it down!!There is one chapter that I had to take some time to read because it was so graphic in describing what was going to happen to the main character, Rafael.However, there are some sweet loving moments as well and I like the way the ritual Rafael goes through to prepare himself for the ordeal he is to go through is presented and allows one to have some insight into his people's beliefs and customs.All in all, this is the best book I have read in a long time. I would also recommend the film based on this book starring Johnny Depp and Marlon Brando. The story differs from book but is just as good. ... Read more

Product Description
Carioca Fletch

Fletch’s trip to Brazil wasn’t exactly planned. But it’s Carnival time in Rio and he has plenty of money, thanks to a little arrangement made stateside. And it took him no time to hook up with the luscious Laura Soares.Fletch is beginning to relax, just a little.

Carioca Fletch

But between the American widow who seems to be following Fletch and the Brazilian widow who’s fingered Fletch as her long-dead husband, he suddenly doesn’t have much time to enjoy the present or even get a wink of sleep.

Carioca Fletch

A thirty-year-old unsolved murder, a more recent suicide, an inconvenient heart attack–somehow Fletch is connected to all of them and one of those connections might just shorten his own life. From Rio to Bahia and back again, at the height of Carnival, Fletch has to keep moving or get stopped cold. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Worst of the series
It's almost as if someone else wrote the book.It doesn't have the feel of any of the other Fletch books and I was thoroughly disappointed.Obviously, the author wrote it after a trip to Rio, probably during Carnivale, and he was affected by it so much that he wrote the lead character so much differently from the other Fletch books.He doesn't speak the way he normally speaks, and frankly I almost bailed halfway through the book.Oh, and thanks for all of the Portugese which I don't speak.It just doesn't fit in the series.As a story, it certainly works and attempted to keep my interest, but as a Fletch book, sorry, I didn't care for it at all.

Fly Me Down to Rio
Every prize winning author is entitled to a stinker. CARIOCA FLETCH by Gregory McDonald smells like the back allies of the Brazilian slums. The book does provide the reader with some back story as to what happen when the private plane landed with Fletch and a suitcase full of money as passengers.
If you enjoy reading an entire series it is on the list.
Nash Black, author of TRAVELERS.

Worth reading, I enjoyed it
I will agree with those who said this is their least favorite Fletch book, but will break with those saying it is bad or not worth reading.

I actually quite enjoyed reading it, but then again having been to Mardi Gras in New Orleans and Carnival in Trinidad, I was fascinated by all the descriptions of Brazil and Carnival.There were several characters (most notably the Tap Dancers) that I liked reading about, and I thought it was an interesting segway from Journalist Fletch to Rich Fletch who just is observing people and experiencing life.Fletch talking about getting robbed when he got there and about how he was not a Carioca but was clearly trying to learn what he could about Brazil were good, and his realization of what he wants to do (and basically not stay in Brazil) I also liked."Sometimes what is not there tells you as much as what is there".. great line from the book and very illustrative of "Carioca Fletch" on the whole.

Fletch does not have the 'wit' nearly as much as he does in his other books, but the book itself was a good read that honestly I couldn't put down.As a Fletch book, not as good, but it is a good book (if that makes any sense.)

Not terrible....
After reading all of the negative reviews of Carioca Fletch, I was skeptical that the book would be able to keep my interest.I've just now finished reading the book and, while this is not the most captivating Fletch story in the series, I certainly didn't find it to be as bad as described by others.

In my opinion, it was a nice change of pace from the other Fletch books.There is not a lot of suspense or mystery, however I appreciated the fact that Fletch seemed to be in awe of Brazil.Also, his interactions with the Tap Dancers were pretty comical.

My biggest gripe is that Mcdonald didn't write a mystery about Fletch in Italy.I know it is touched on in other books, but I was hoping there would have been a story about Fletch moving to Italy (vs a whole book about Fletch in Brazil).

Either way, Carioca Fletch is still a good read if you are a fan of the series...it just doesn't compare to the others in terms of suspense and mystery (which is unfortunate as that is pretty much the genre Mcdonald was writing).

90% filler, 9% story and 1% mystery
The weakest Fletch book by far, by FAR. Carioca Fletch has our beloved investigative reporter on extended holiday in Brazil after swiping a sizable sum of Alan Stanwyck's fortune (this bit didn't happen in the movie). While there he learns that he may be the reincarnation of a man who was murdered 47 years ago and is more or less mesmerized into solving that case, whether he wants to or not.

Gregory MacDonald obviously started writing this book with no clear goal, story or resolution in mind. He rambles on and on and on about nothing of importance and gooses up the pages with endless filler material. So many untranslated Portuguese words and long, long random character names come and go, it's hard to keep up. The tepid story clearly is not novel length, even a pulpy novel such as this. All it is really good for is finding out what happens to the characters of the original Fletch book (the books were written and published out of chronological story order) immediately afterwards.

The Fletch series and character are great and have, so far, been well above average in terms of pulp fiction. But this is a major low point. For hardcore fans and completists only. Three stars is very generous indeed. ... Read more

Product Description
Fletch, Too

After a few delays and without the benefit of a rehearsal, it looks like Fletch is finally getting hitched. It’s a small affair, just a few friends, the bride’s parents, the groom’s mother, and,just maybe, his father. Except Fletch’s father is supposed to be dead.

Fletch, Too

But somebody delivered the letter, signed Fletch (senior) and containing an invitation (and a pair of plane tickets) to visit the old man in Nairobi for the honeymoon. Never mind Fletch and his bride were planning a ski trip to Colorado.

Fletch, Too

No sooner does the couple land in Africa (togged out for skiing!), then the search for Fletch’s father begins. There’s a murder at the airport,reports of the old man’s incarceration, and the hospitality (and evasiveness) offered by pop’s best friend, who flies them across the continent, just a step or two behind (or maybe ahead of) the old rascal. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Fletch Gets Married, the First Time.
Ah, Fletch is back in gear with a wedding to end all weddings and a honeymoon for the funny pages.
FLETCH TOO by Gregory McDonald brings us all the fantastic sharp dialogue, observed situations and changes of plot this series has made famous. Through in an invitation from a dead father to spend his honeymoon in Africa in clothes designed for skiing in Colorado and the fun begins.
A marvelous way to end the series from a writing standpoint.
Nash Black, author of Indie finalists WRITING AS A SMALL BUSINESS and HAINTS.

Not Bad, Not Great
I own almost all of the Fletch series, and this one seems to be very middle-of-the-pack to me.Like Carioca, Fletch, it seems to be more ghost story and less Fletch adventure.It's an interesting read, especially for readers who want to know more about Fletch's backstory, but I could have done just as well without it.

My favorite of the series
I see from the other reviews that I am in the minority here.Personally this is my favorite.True, it isn't this huge unbelievable mystery.It's a more personal story.This is our only real glimpse into Irwin's married life, his mother, his father, plus we get to meet his second wife briefly.
I loved the ending and the character development is superb.
The most heart felt of the series.

Mildly curious
On the day of his wedding to Barbara, Fletch receives a letter from his long lost dad who claims to be in Africa and needs Fletch's assisance for some reason. Intead of going on their honeymoon to Colorado, Fletch and Barbara fly over to Kenya to meet with the enigmatic Walter Fletcher, but there's no sign of him. Only his pal Peter Carr.

While freshening up in the airport toilet, Fletch half witnesses a murder in which a man is stabbed to death. He tries to put this to the back of his mind as along with Carr and Barbara he flies around the desert and jungles looking at animals and trying to discover lost cities.

That's really about it, I'm afraid. Gregory MacDonald coughed-up a rather tepid story this time around. There no real sense of mystery or crime solving and there's far too much detail put into Fletch and Barbara's sightseeing and dinner/menu choices. It's more like an episode of Murder She Wrote than a real, solid whodunnit.

And what is the deal with the character of Juma and all that 'penis' stuff near the end? Why is he having group sex for no apparent reason? I so totally do not get that! I'll admit that this book was heading for a 2-star review but a surprise twist right at the very end turned the whole thing around and genuinely shocked me. But it's a lot of bore to trudge through to get to it. Methinks that MacDonald probably visited Kenya shortly before writing and was so impressed he felt like sending Fletch there to do exactly what he did; sit around in restaurants and going sight-seeing.

Some stronger inspiration could have helped the story, but it's still a good read for Fletch fans.

Too much National Geographic, not enough mystery
First of all let me say that I have read all of the Fletch books and I am a big fan of Gregory McDonald.I loved most of the books so I am not just a fan of the movie.But "Fletch, Too" was more of an hour long TV episode than a mystery novel, or any novel for that matter.Taking place in Africa, Mr. McDonald introduces us to cultures we are unfamiliar with - much like in "Carioca Fletch."This is fine, except that this is apparently more important than the story.Most of the "action" is driving from here to there, visiting this place, flying to that place, and - oh my God, eating meals.I understand the realism of having characters eating constantly as real people do, but too much is about fluffy situations such as these and not enough on the story, which gets interesting at the very end.The writing is good, as always, but the story wasn't explored enough.This Fletch adventure would have been exciting to be a part of, but it was a rather dull read.Sorry Mr. McDonald.I am looking forward to Son of Fletch and the Flynn books as well as The Brave. ... Read more

Product Description
Ever since F.X. Flynn made his first appearance in Confess, Fletch, matching wits with the inimitable Irwin Fletcher, he has befuddled, infuriated, and amazed his colleagues on the Boston Police force while in pursuit of blackmailers, murderers, embezzlers, politicians, and, occasionally, his fellow policemen.

It might have been an accident that brought down the Boeing 707 over Boston Harbor, virtually in Flynn’s own backyard. But it seems unlikely, with so many potential targets on board: The heavily insured, elderly Federal judge; the has-been British actor; the middleweight champ; the Middle Eastern finance minister. The motive could have been greed, murder, revenge, or even terrorism–and it’s up to the good inspector to get to the bottom of it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

McDonald's other series character
After a Boeing 707 explodes shortly after take-off, unconventional Boston Police Inspector, Francis Xavier Flynn, is called in to investigate.

Inspector Francis Xavier Flynn was first introduced in the second book of McDonald's other series, "Confess, Fletch", and in this book he gets his own novel. Readers of McDonald's "Fletch" novels will, undoubtedly, also enjoy this novel as there are a lot of similarities between the characters of Flynn and Fletch; the humour is very similar; and both are written in the same heavy on dialogue, light on exposition style that makes McDonald's novels so easy to read (as an aside, McDonald's first novel, "Running Scared", was not written in this style - there is very little dialogue in it at all - and I consider it to be my least favourite of his novels that I have read).

Story-wise, this isn't one of McDonald's best. Although McDonald does present the reader with a number of suspects and has Flynn determine the killer from those suspects, I felt he spent too little time with each of these suspects, so that when the killer is finally revealed, it has very little emotional impact. I also found the ending to be anti-climatic. After investing a week of my life into reading this, I wanted something bigger. Still, the journey to the end was interesting enough, and I did like McDonald's terrorist organization, the Human Surplus League (a group that believes that there are too many humans on the planet, and that mass murder is the best solution).

Good, Engrossing Book w/ Weak Ending
I enjoyed reading this book.I picked it up because Flynn was the Boston Inspector Fletch worked with/against in "Confess, Fletch" (a very good book).The book is a fun, engrossing read.But, the ending is a bit weak.Oh, the bad guys are found out, but there's no satisfaction in it.Various third parties clean things up once Flynn figures things out, but Flynn doesn't really get to say "I told you so" or to rub someone's nose in their stupidity.Truth, Justice, and the American Way are served, but it's an intellectual service, not a visceral one.Nevertheless, it's still a good book to read.

First novel in the "Flynn" series
This is the first novel featuring "Francis Xavier Flynn," aBoston police inspector who investigates some most unusual cases.Thisnovel is typical Gregory McDonald, fast paced, often funny and a goodmystery.Fans of his "Fletch" series, in particular, shouldenjoy it. ... Read more

Product Description
When it comes to crime, Boston Police Inspector and part-time intelligence agent, Francis Xavier Flynn is no stranger to the bizarre, the perverse, or the ridiculous. But when he is suddenly summoned by Police Commissioner D’Esopo to a secret wilderness compound far outside of their jurisdiction, he is a little surprised to find himself the hostage of a secret club of the nation’s most powerful and peculiar. Famous for his irreverent methods and razor sharp intellect, Flynn is forced to conduct a clandestine murder investigation. But before one murder is even solved, membership at the Rod and Gun Club continues to drop. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Not Gregory McDonald at his best
I was a big fan of McDonald's FLETCH series in the late 70's and early '80's and then the later FLYNN spin-off's, buying each as the came out in paperback. But somehow this title escaped my attention until recently.

To begin with the positive, FLYNN'S IN is filled with McDonald's trademark bantering dialogue and light tone.
And this mystery, which involves murders at a secluded lodge peopled by the uber-wealthy and who pull the strings of power in our country seems even more timely now than when this book was published back in '84.

But as a mystery this book is a rather frustrating read.McDonald's story is riddled with plot holes, contradictions and implausibilities.His cast of suspects are sloppily introduced and have wafer-thin characterizations so they remain a confusing blur.As a reader, I ended up having little involvement in the murder mystery's outcome since it was so hard keeping track of the characters.

This isn't a bad book for readers who want a fix of a McDonald book they may have also missed, but it's not the best introduction to a reader wanting to experience McDonald at his best.

Flynn series is great
Gregory McDonald is an excellent writer, with wit and inventiveness... His Flynn series is AT LEAST as good as the Fletch series.

Flynn's 2nd
I can't figure out why Gregory McDonald's "Flynn" series haspaled in comparison to his much more well known "Fletch" novels. Flynn has his own share of fast paced, funny and interesting mysteries.Inthis case, he investigates a murder among the political elite of his nativeBoston.Those of you who are Fletch fans, I urge you to give FrancisXavier Flynn a chance. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

My favorite book of all time...
The philosophy within this book may be getting a bit dated, but I still find it full of beautiful truths. It's a wonderfully crafted story -- whenever I finish (I've read it about fifty times at least), I turn to the beginning and start again until life ("You're reading that book AGAIN?!") requires that I put the book down. There is a beautiful "interconnectedness of all things" that drives you through the story to the end -- how did the bride and groom meet and who are all these people to each other and can old wounds and loose ends be tied up by this strange gathering of people from the four corners of the earth to a farm in Tennessee... And where will they go from here -- youth grabbing hold of the good things of this older generation and giving some hope that those ideals will carry on into the future. You witness the characters being slowly painted in to create an intricate tapestry with lots of interwoven threads.

There is no stress to this story. There are interesting questions, but the "happy ending" is assured from the beginning, which makes it a wonderful story with which to relax and unwind. The end scenes are so beautiful, to me, that every time I wish I had been there to hear this great jazz pianist on his "limousine" piano finally discovering that even without his long-time saxophone playing partner he has a lot to say with just the piano, and have to remind myself, it's fiction, it didn't really happen.

So, maybe the various "waxing philosophical" sections won't speak to you, but the people themselves, especially 16-year-old Josh, definitely will.

My greatest sadness is that I cannot find the subsequent parts of this four-part series. I think this is a seriously overlooked book -- that perhaps the author was painted into a box labeled "Fletch" and this departure was not appreciated.

I found my copy through a used bookstore -- a library discard. ... Read more

Product Description
A rogue and a rascal--the trumpet playing, lady-killing toast of Greendowns County, Tennessee--Skylar Whitfields talented lips have won him the affection of many a local belle. Now theyve won him a scholarship to a prestigious Northern music school--which is what brings young Skylar into the home of his snooty Boston Brahmin relatives, where he is decidedly not welcome. Perhaps their disdain has something to do with the disappearance of five million dollar-worth of family gembobs on the very night he arrives. Or his amorous effect on some of the Beantown females, whose explicit fantasies could have dire consequences for the visiting country cousin. And of course, theres the murder that Skylar seems involved in up to his Dixie neck. . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

McDonald was once so good...
Gregory McDonald once wrote funny, interesting books. The Flynn series was unique, and the early Fletch books were great. His skills seem to have deteriorated, and his last three or four books have been eminently forgettable. Sad.

Amusing, but hardly spectacular
If you are looking for a mystery forget it.The mystery is secondary to the rest of the story and is only really approached in the remaining 30 pages of the book.I found "Skylar" to be a better book, because the story was more original.As mentioned by one of the previous reviews that story centers around Jonathan Whitfield a "yankee" being the fish out of water around his cousin Skylar's southern surroundings.It seems this book was written just for the heck of it to see what it would be like to have Skylar up north.In "Skylar" we learn that the dumb hick image that Skylar puts on is all a facade and that he is truly a clever person.This story while showing glimpses of his intelligence disappointingly reverts to this original perception and it feels like you are reading the same story again.If you are interested in reading a Gregory MacDonald book then read one of the earlier Fletch novels.They don't actually read like the Chevy Chase movies but they are witty and worth the time (with the occasional weak book in the mix).If you have already read all the Fletch stories then you can give "Skylar" a try, but don't expect it to be on par with them.I would recommend the Flynn stories: "The Buck Passes Flynn","Flynn", & "Flynn's In" (about a boston detective/government agent).You may not be able to order them but you can be sure to find them in a used book store, and they are definitely more worth while than the Skylar books.

More of the Same
I just finished "Skylar in Yankeeland" and wasn't overlyimpressed. Certainly, it was better than "Skylar", but that'slike saying Cheez in a Can is better than those Cracker Barrel fake cheddarsticks. Neither one really takes the blue ribbon, but at least you cansqueeze Cheez in a Can directly into your mouth, without having to wastetime cutting it.

In "Skylar", yankee cousin JonathanWhitfield is a fish out of water when he comes south for a visit. In thisinstallment, MacDonald turns the tables and has good ol' boy Skylar venturenorth to visit the very rich Whitfields, where he is, yes, a fish out ofwater. The family jewels are heisted, a young lady is murdered and generalhilarity ensues. Or doesn't.

As a reader, I never like easy jokes. Ifigure the reason I'm paying to read an author's book is because he or sheis much cleverer than I and will say things that I haven't already thoughtor write things that aren't cliches and because of this, I am increasinglysaddened by Gregory MacDonald's descent into mediocrity. None of thecharacters here are much better than stereotypes and the situations theyencounter are downright unlikely. Add to that the fact that one of thecharacters, a Boston blue blood since before the revolution, makes apersonality change likely to cause a whiplash in anyone paying even themost casual attention and you have a book that is unlikely to win MacDonaldany new fans.

Delightful. The is the best McDonald has done in a decade.
This was an extremely fun read. As a longtime fan of McDonalds work, I must confess that his Son of Fletch work of the last few years hasn't grabbed me. Skylar, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air (sorry forthe cliche). McDonald has found new energy in Skylar. I hope we see more ofhim. ... Read more