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Farrah Graham #1

Uncorking a Murder

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It's murder with a healthy dose of humor.

Five years ago, Mia Michaels was abducted and killed after her husband, a prominent scientist who may have found the cure for Type II diabetes, went missing. Detective Rodney Peters hunted down an unlikely suspect who wound up convicted for her murder—even though the evidence against him didn’t add up.

Now retired from the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department, Rodney’s days are numbered due to his declining health, though he’s relentless in pursing the truth of what really happened to Mia in the hopes of setting an innocent man free—a man he helped put away. With no one left to turn to for help, Rodney enlists the assistance of Farrah Graham, host of the wildly popular Uncorking a Murder podcast, to uncover the truth of what really happened to Mia Michaels.

Interested to hear why a retired detective is driven to have a conviction overturned, Farrah and her intern Jimmy “Doubts” follow their curiosity down to Ft. Lauderdale where they uncover a conspiracy involving a deranged CEO, his despondent lover, and a former IRA hitman who all have a vested interest in keeping the truth about Mia Michaels’ death hidden. Together Rodney, Farrah, and Jimmy race against the clock as events unfold like a wheel inside a wheel.

266 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 18, 2016

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About the author

Michael Carlon

9 books60 followers
Michael Carlon is a writer, comic, and the host of the Uncorking a Story podcast (http://uncorkingastory.com) which features depth interviews with bestselling authors other storytellers. When he is not writing a novel, a magazine article, or a piece for his local newspaper, Mike earns his living as a marketing consultant traveling around the world interviewing people about their experiences with and attitudes towards his clients' products and services. He is an expert at understanding what makes people tick and translating those insights into intelligence his clients can use to make better decisions.

Mike lives in Stamford, CT with his wife Nicole and their triplets Grace, Patrick, and Maggie. He holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and an MBA with a concentration in marketing from Fairfield University.

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5 stars
144 (46%)
4 stars
93 (29%)
3 stars
50 (16%)
2 stars
18 (5%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Laura Larson.
292 reviews13 followers
June 30, 2020
This was a light and quirky take of a detective story. Whodunit is never a mystery to the reader, but it's fun to see everyone else piece it together and watch some unique characters. There were a few small editing errors, but nothing unforgivable.
Profile Image for LAWonder10.
954 reviews737 followers
August 15, 2018
This murder mystery has an unexpected twist!
​Cleverly written in two parts by author, Michael Carlon, the reader will not want to put it down!
This intriguing tale of a man with a "condition" which leads him to the center of a serious situation. A situation he is determined to correct and see that "justice is served".

In this suspenseful, poignant story, the law. media, investigations and perseverance of several individuals work together for good.

​The character development was done very well, the scenes were also portrayed in a way which was easily visualizes. The mystique slowly built leaving the reader actively trying to figure out the "story behind it all".

This is highly recommended for Book Clubs and higher education levels, due to so many key discussion points found within these pages.
**Beware: there is occasional profanity used.

*This book was gifted to me with no expectations for a positive review. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Marcia-Lee Finocchio.
604 reviews6 followers
September 16, 2018
WOW..what a fantastic storyline! Greed does horrible things to people, this book is about greed, love, a man is wrongly convicted of the murder of his wife and a detective who feels he is innocent and needs to prove it.. Really a wonderful story, highly recommend reading.
30 reviews1 follower
February 8, 2018
Cat2

I received this book from Goodreads. What a great read and would read another book from this author. If you like a good crime book to read this is one of them.
Profile Image for Shannon Binegar-Foster.
2,099 reviews10 followers
July 23, 2018
I really loved this story. Although about half way through I thought that maybe the description was wrong because it had not mentioned the podcast at all. I realized that it was the back story. I found the story ver intriguing. I especially liked Farrah’s intern Jimmy Doubts. His humor and endless knowledge cracks me up. I look forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
November 3, 2022
What a fun ride! Lots of twists and turns with heart a little bit of humor. It covers love, business, justice, modern technology and even horror. A very unique story! Can’t wait to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Tony Parsons.
4,156 reviews93 followers
February 19, 2018
After 15 yrs. of marriage Derek came home & found his wife banging Kyle Kessler (boss, motivational speaker).
1/2001, Bali Hai hotel. Mary (desk clerk) was checking in Captain Derek Krunch (Pompano Beach PD Detective) & Eddie (yellow Lab).

Clippers Bar & Grill. What information did Joe Gable (40+, bartender) give Derek?
Detective Sam Tucan (Pompano Beach PD homicide, Boston College) said that Captain Krunch needed to come to the pier.
Mia Michaels (wife, T2) bawling her head off, was telling Lucy Hendricks (BFF, T2 corporate affairs Sr. VP) she could not get hold of Dr. Sonny Michaels (son/husband, Tepes Therapies (T2), lead research scientist, Harvard, Yale, MD, PhD, schizophrenia).
Mr. Adrian Tepes (45, T2 founder/CEO) was meeting with Lucy.
Mia (Harvard; journalism major) was very worried about her BF Anthony “Sonny” Michaels Jr. (Tony, Harvard; premed, schizophrenia).
Sonny had found a potential cure for Type II diabetes in lab animals.
Mia had found Sonny’s USB flash drive.
Captain Derek Krunch (Pompano Beach PD) was going to pay Trixie (informant, aka Cristopher, drag queen, CheeryHo club owner) a visit.
Pebbles (stripper) had some very costly information for Derek.
Clippers Bar. Bali Hai Hotel (Pompano Beach). Detective Sam Tucan had arrived on the crime scene.
Mia had been kidnapped/murdered.
Raiford State, Prison. Rodney Peters (ex-Detective), Ms. Farrah Graham, & Jimmy Doubts Rella, checked in with CO Maria Montez so he could visit with Sonny Michaels (Captain).
Farrah & Jimmy went to see Cristopher “Trixie” (m).
Detective Sean Mooney (Stamford PD) came to Farrah Gerry “Lucky” Fein had been murdered.
Ms. Melody Note survived.

Miramar (town) Rodney, Farrah, & Jimmy told FBI SA Greg Moore (Irish) everything they new about the case.
Did Sonny really kill Mia?

Warning: This book contains adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. A very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free author; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Uncorking a Story publisher; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
972 reviews9 followers
November 1, 2018
*I received this kindle book free in a goodreads giveaway*

This is a really fun book with a twist that I thought was awesome! I don't do spoilers so I won't give anything away. For the most part, I thought the plot was fun and the characters were interesting (most of them).

Things I liked:
A great twist I didn't see coming (I love being surprised)
Very sympathetic protagonist(s)
fun plot

Things I didn't like:
the antagonist was very strange - in a distracting way that didn't help the plot at all
it ended way too quickly and too easily - i feel like there was a missed opportunity here for a longer denouement

Overall, I recommend this book - to mystery lovers - and anyone really. :)
Profile Image for Joe Crowe.
Author 5 books25 followers
May 10, 2018
This is a murder mystery that is in tune with current culture, the idea of which blows my mind.

Most standard-issue murder mysteries exist outside of a time period, but this one is so of the moment, and also so good.

It's about a murder investigating podcast, like Serial and others that have come along after. For story purposes, naturally, hijinks ensue and the host gets involved with a real life case.

The story goes down a dark corner after that, into intensely thrilling action, drama, and conspiracy stuff. It's a quick, fun read.

And conveniently, unlike podcasts, you don't have to use your ears for anything.

5,756 reviews69 followers
September 20, 2018
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.

A strange book with a very unreliable narrator for most of the novel.

A police captain leaves his wife, and begins investigating a murder. Only there's no murder, and it seems the captain is a persona inhabited by a man with mental problems. Something entirely different is going on.

A Romanian CEO tries to become like Dracula, while at the same time, suppressing the cure for type II diabetes.

A podcaster investigates and it all comes tumbling down.

Pretty good, if a bit of a messy narrative.
668 reviews4 followers
February 26, 2018
Murder with a good dose of humor

I enjoyed this book! There was enough mystery, particularly in the beginning. But there was another story within the story with all the character details. I will definitely read another Farrah Graham book.
I won this book on a goodreads.com giveaway.
Profile Image for Saundra Wright.
2,552 reviews8 followers
March 30, 2020
I first read a more recent book by this author and loved it. He is just as good in the mystery genre as in comedy! If you're looking for someone new to check out try Mike Carton! I love complicated twists in plot and this definitely delivers. I have already picked up more by this author and look forward to reading.
Profile Image for Meredith Spidel.
Author 6 books44 followers
Read
May 11, 2018
A twisty murder mystery is just what mom's sanity ordered during this crazy packed Spring season. Tickled to be sent a copy for review and will be passing on to more than one friend. Treat yourself with a copy!
Profile Image for collette mckee.
39 reviews2 followers
September 14, 2017
Great read for hurricane Irma

As Irma battered Florida I escaped into ft Lauderdale in fiction where the truth prevailed
Looking forward to Farrah's next podcast
Profile Image for Ada Lavin.
84 reviews5 followers
March 4, 2018
This was a really fun read with a couple of great twists in it. The main character Sonny is unjustly sent to prison for murdering his wife Mia. But why he is set up is the question. The lead Det on the case turns in desperation to a podcaster for help to set things straight, convict the correct people and free Sonny. With a lot of funny scenes, odd characters and serious business, I know you will enjoy this book.

I would like to thank Michael Carlon, Goodreads for allowing me to read this for an honest review.
Profile Image for Susi.
43 reviews6 followers
March 13, 2018
Confusing title but seriously worth it

I read this ebook in about 5 hours. I couldn't put it down. It was gripping from the start to the finish. A truly good read.
Profile Image for Sandra Olson.
Author 26 books28 followers
December 7, 2018
Great

I would like to give this a 4.5 rating. Great story. Interesting characters and weird plot. It was slow in a few spots and sketchy in a few others, but overall a great read.
13 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2019
Loved it!

Good book! Nice twists and turns and enjoyed it! Would recommend it if you like mysteries! Love the author's style!
Profile Image for Nancie Lafferty.
1,570 reviews11 followers
January 25, 2019
Terrific story with great twists, humor and timely truths. Received as a Giveaway. Thanks!
118 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2020
Fangtastic

What a great set of characters from a Dracula wannabe to !man with a different persona the story is really well thought out and intriguing
Profile Image for Kathy Webb.
539 reviews35 followers
October 14, 2018
I won this Kindle Edition copy in a GoodReads giveaway - thank you to everyone involved!!
I really enjoyed this book - if you like crime novels - you'll love this one. I highly recommend!!
688 reviews4 followers
October 20, 2018
This was an excellent story! A must read! !

This book starts with a twist and continues to intrigue all of the way through. Great characters with a strong plot. Well done!
Profile Image for Lori Byrd.
636 reviews18 followers
July 8, 2022
What a great story line and cast of characters to get you in the mood to dig in your heels and read this great book. I didn’t understand at first,but then it clicked what was going on. Really terrific writing. So good.
465 reviews
April 25, 2021
I almost gave up about 80 pages in, but I'm glad I didn't.
Profile Image for Amy.
560 reviews
July 30, 2017
This is one of the best murder mysteries I have read in awhile. I like the fact that there were many nontraditional characters which made for great plot twist. In fact it was so engrossing that I read the entire book in one sitting. I am now looking forward to the next book in the series. A must read for mystery lovers.

I received this book as part of a good reads giveaway but the opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Kathie Buss.
23 reviews
June 22, 2024
I loved all the twists and mystery of the book. Cant wait to read more in this series
Profile Image for Darcia Helle.
Author 30 books723 followers
July 30, 2018
I'm clearly in the minority of readers so far as to my feelings about this book. I found it more of a silly parody than a realistic crime novel, and certain aspects irked me quite a bit.

Through the first half of the book, we don't meet Farrah Graham at all. Instead, we get to know Sonny and some other characters who are part of his life. We watch as the murder takes place for which Sonny is the prime suspect. We don't see much of an investigation and we don't see the trial. Those events are summed up quickly and vaguely. Then we move on to 'Part Two', in which we jump ahead in the timeline. Farrah steps in as a major character and the story takes on a different feel.

My major issue is with Sonny's character. The entire story hinges on him having a mental illness, but that mental illness is never defined. In fact, the diagnosis and the symptoms exhibited are all over the place, and no one, not his family or his wife, offers or even seems to know the definitive diagnosis. We're told he was diagnosed with a "very mild psychosis that mimicked schizophrenia." He hears voices, which is indicative of schizophrenia. Throughout the story, he's referred to as being "socially awkward" in a way that indicates autism. He is described as often going into a "dissociative state". He quite literally takes on different personalities and loses time, which is indicative of dissociative identity disorder (once known as multiple personality disorder). These are completely different mental illnesses. I wouldn't even classify autism as a mental illness, yet the "socially awkward" thing is brought up continually as if it's part of his psychosis. We're told the first episode of his psychosis occurred at age 5. Schizophrenia typically begins around mid to late teens, not in early childhood. Dissociative identity disorder can begin in early childhood, though it's linked with severe trauma and we don't see that in Sonny's life. It's like the author just randomly tossed in symptoms fitting whatever he needed for the character, but didn't take the time to research and/or define the mental illness as something real. The clincher for me, the thing that really made me groan with irritation, is that, when Sonny was in a dissociative state, a hit on the head would suddenly bring him back to reality. I mean, seriously? This was all so ridiculous that I couldn't find any enjoyment in the story.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Profile Image for John.
291 reviews
November 1, 2020
This book is written in two parts. Part 1 (5 years earlier) involves the murder of a psychologically unbalanced man's wife, for whom the man (Sonny) is found guilty and imprisoned. The prosecutor had his own political agenda and was in cahoots with a medical pharmacy CEO (Adrian), and Sonny had some data that could ruin it for him. Part 2 involves the 'present' day where the old detective talks a radio talk-show host into helping him prove the man's innocence.

Part 1 is quite unique and interesting. Part 2 starts off well, but gradually losses its interest due to the characters coming across as too amateurish in the investigation of the original crime. Plus, once some sort of opening is made available, the book rushes to the end. I'm really still at a loss as to why the author decided to make the bad-guy, Adrian, to be a self-made vampire. It added nothing to the story, and the character could have been any monomaniacal business tycoon.

This book is the beginning of a series, so maybe there have been some problems establishing the story. At the same time, this is a known author. I most likely will try one more to see if the entertainment value increases.
Profile Image for Aubrey Klick.
67 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2017
First and foremost I have to say that I love the pace of this book. The short chapters keep everything moving quickly, but doesn't leave out detail in the process. The characters are so interesting and it leaves me wanting a little more. Part One was the most interesting part for me, especially with the twist at the end. Honestly I was a little confused about halfway through the book when the Farrah character on the back of the book still hadn't even been introduced, but I felt that the characters of the investigation were much more interesting anyway.

I only knocked it down a star because some of the character actions were a little over the top and unbelievable at times, and for the confusion of getting over halfway through the book before it even seeming like I was reading what had been described on the back of the book.

Overall would I recommend this book? Yes.

I received this book free from a giveaway win.
454 reviews11 followers
October 27, 2018
A unique mystery laced with humor and many unbelievable twists that make it hard to put down.

When Sonny’s wife is murdered and he is arrested for the crime, it is evident that he has been set up. After five years, the orginal detective on the case believes Sonny is innocent. He conacts Farrah Graham who has her own podcast called Uncorking A Murder. After examining the evidence against Sonny, she finds too many discrepancies in the case. Secrets are uncovered that are frightening and put lives at risk. Why was Sonny’s wife murdered?? What did she uncover that caused her death?
You have to immerse yourself in this fun read!!

I enjoyed this mystery after the story became clear to me. It was a little confusing since it had two storylines that came together in the second half of the book I received this Kindle E book from Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. Don’t miss this page turner!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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