On the Ropes: Round One

I loved Duffy Dombrowski, the boxer/social worker with a twisted sense of humor, drinking issues, and a determination to see justice done, even if it means using unorthodox means (which it usually does). Although I found the story as intriguing as the colorful characters that populate Duffy's world, the plot of this book involves child porn and terrorism and may not be everyone's cup of tea. But Duffy is definitely an everyman's hero worth rooting for! Looking forward to the next one!

Okay, who says a girl can't love a "guy book"? Not I. Sure, Tom Schreck writes with authority about boxing, about a guy, and from a male point of view. But I took a knock-down punch and fell for Duffy. He's everything a guy should be: virile, sensitive, thoughtful, and he loves dogs. This book had me laughing through an airplane flight that mimicked the most frightening roller coaster you can imagine. It had me sniggering out loud while all my travel companions gripped the armrests in fear. My only disappointment? It ended far too quickly. Long live Duffy, king of the ring, and of my heart. I give my new hero a perfect 10, both in the ring and out of it.

Normally I stick to sci fi and fantasy books but, this book kept me entertained and was an easy read from start to finish. I will buy the sequels when they come out. Heres to hoping that another up and coming author can make it big.

I read a lot of crime novels. This is one of the best debuts I've ever read. It's laugh out loud funny, plus it's crammed full of action, suspense, and a wonderfully complex mystery. Duffy is a terrific character. Those who enjoy Robert B. Parker, Robert Crais, or newcomers like Jeff Shelby and Harry Hunsicker will feel right at home here. But beneath the wiescracks and fist fights is some real heart, written in a wonderfully readable style. It's really that good.