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Elvis Cole and Joe Pike #19
Racing the Light
Adele Schumacher isn’t a typical worried mum. When she hires Elvis to find her missing son, a controversial podcaster named Josh Shoe, she brings a bag filled with cash, paranoid tales of government conspiracies, and a squad of mysterious bodyguards. Finding Josh should be simple, but Elvis quickly learns he isn’t alone in the hunt � a team of deadly strangers are determined to find Josh first.
With dangerous secrets lurking behind every lead, Elvis needs his friend Joe Pike more than ever to uncover the truth about Josh, corrupt politicians, and the murderous business cartels rotting the heart of Los Angeles. And when his estranged ex-girlfriend Lucy Chenier and her son return to the city, Elvis realizes just how much he has to lose . . . if he survives.
With dangerous secrets lurking behind every lead, Elvis needs his friend Joe Pike more than ever to uncover the truth about Josh, corrupt politicians, and the murderous business cartels rotting the heart of Los Angeles. And when his estranged ex-girlfriend Lucy Chenier and her son return to the city, Elvis realizes just how much he has to lose . . . if he survives.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published November 1, 2022
1409 people are currently reading
2081 people want to read
About the author
Robert Crais
165books4,446followers Robert Crais is the author of the best-selling Elvis Cole novels. A native of Louisiana, he grew up on the banks of the Mississippi River in a blue collar family of oil refinery workers and police officers. He purchased a secondhand paperback of Raymond Chandler’s The Little Sister when he was fifteen, which inspired his lifelong love of writing, Los Angeles, and the literature of crime fiction. Other literary influences include Dashiell Hammett, Ernest Hemingway, Robert B. Parker, and John Steinbeck.
After years of amateur film-making and writing short fiction, he journeyed to Hollywood in 1976 where he quickly found work writing scripts for such major television series as Hill Street Blues, Cagney & Lacey, and Miami Vice, as well as numerous series pilots and Movies-of-the-Week for the major networks. He received an Emmy nomination for his work on Hill Street Blues, but is most proud of his 4-hour NBC miniseries, Cross of Fire, which the New York Times declared: "A searing and powerful documentation of the Ku Klux Klan’s rise to national prominence in the 20s."
In the mid-eighties, feeling constrained by the collaborative working requirements of Hollywood, Crais resigned from a lucrative position as a contract writer and television producer in order to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a novelist. His first efforts proved unsuccessful, but upon the death of his father in 1985, Crais was inspired to create Elvis Cole, using elements of his own life as the basis of the story. The resulting novel, The Monkey’s Raincoat, won the Anthony and Macavity Awards and was nominated for the Edgar Award. It has since been selected as one of the 100 Favorite Mysteries of the Century by the Independent Mystery Booksellers Association.
Crais conceived of the novel as a stand-alone, but realized that—in Elvis Cole—he had created an ideal and powerful character through which to comment upon his life and times. (See the WORKS section for additional titles.) Elvis Cole’s readership and fan base grew with each new book, then skyrocketed in 1999 upon the publication of L. A. Requiem, which was a New York Times and Los Angeles Times bestseller and forever changed the way Crais conceived of and structured his novels. In this new way of telling his stories, Crais combined the classic ‘first person� narrative of the American detective novel with flashbacks, multiple story lines, multiple points-of-view, and literary elements to better illuminate his themes. Larger and deeper in scope, Publishers Weekly wrote of L. A. Requiem, "Crais has stretched himself the way another Southern California writer—Ross Macdonald—always tried to do, to write a mystery novel with a solid literary base." Booklist added, "This is an extraordinary crime novel that should not be pigeonholed by genre. The best books always land outside preset boundaries. A wonderful experience."
Crais followed with his first non-series novel, Demolition Angel, which was published in 2000 and featured former Los Angeles Police Department Bomb Technician Carol Starkey. Starkey has since become a leading character in the Elvis Cole series. In 2001, Crais published his second non-series novel, Hostage, which was named a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and was a world-wide bestseller. Additionally, the editors of Amazon.com selected Hostage as the #1 thriller of the year. A film adaptation of Hostage was released in 2005, starring Bruce Willis as ex-LAPD SWAT negotiator Jeff Talley.
Elvis Cole returned in 2003 with the publication of The Last Detective, followed by the tenth Elvis Cole novel, The Forgotten Man, in 2005. Both novels explore with increasing depth the natures and characters of Elvis Cole and Joe Pike. RC’s third stand-alone novel, The Two Minute Rule, was published in 2006. The eleventh entry in the Elvis Cole series, The Watchman, will be published sometime in 2007.
After years of amateur film-making and writing short fiction, he journeyed to Hollywood in 1976 where he quickly found work writing scripts for such major television series as Hill Street Blues, Cagney & Lacey, and Miami Vice, as well as numerous series pilots and Movies-of-the-Week for the major networks. He received an Emmy nomination for his work on Hill Street Blues, but is most proud of his 4-hour NBC miniseries, Cross of Fire, which the New York Times declared: "A searing and powerful documentation of the Ku Klux Klan’s rise to national prominence in the 20s."
In the mid-eighties, feeling constrained by the collaborative working requirements of Hollywood, Crais resigned from a lucrative position as a contract writer and television producer in order to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a novelist. His first efforts proved unsuccessful, but upon the death of his father in 1985, Crais was inspired to create Elvis Cole, using elements of his own life as the basis of the story. The resulting novel, The Monkey’s Raincoat, won the Anthony and Macavity Awards and was nominated for the Edgar Award. It has since been selected as one of the 100 Favorite Mysteries of the Century by the Independent Mystery Booksellers Association.
Crais conceived of the novel as a stand-alone, but realized that—in Elvis Cole—he had created an ideal and powerful character through which to comment upon his life and times. (See the WORKS section for additional titles.) Elvis Cole’s readership and fan base grew with each new book, then skyrocketed in 1999 upon the publication of L. A. Requiem, which was a New York Times and Los Angeles Times bestseller and forever changed the way Crais conceived of and structured his novels. In this new way of telling his stories, Crais combined the classic ‘first person� narrative of the American detective novel with flashbacks, multiple story lines, multiple points-of-view, and literary elements to better illuminate his themes. Larger and deeper in scope, Publishers Weekly wrote of L. A. Requiem, "Crais has stretched himself the way another Southern California writer—Ross Macdonald—always tried to do, to write a mystery novel with a solid literary base." Booklist added, "This is an extraordinary crime novel that should not be pigeonholed by genre. The best books always land outside preset boundaries. A wonderful experience."
Crais followed with his first non-series novel, Demolition Angel, which was published in 2000 and featured former Los Angeles Police Department Bomb Technician Carol Starkey. Starkey has since become a leading character in the Elvis Cole series. In 2001, Crais published his second non-series novel, Hostage, which was named a Notable Book of the Year by the New York Times and was a world-wide bestseller. Additionally, the editors of Amazon.com selected Hostage as the #1 thriller of the year. A film adaptation of Hostage was released in 2005, starring Bruce Willis as ex-LAPD SWAT negotiator Jeff Talley.
Elvis Cole returned in 2003 with the publication of The Last Detective, followed by the tenth Elvis Cole novel, The Forgotten Man, in 2005. Both novels explore with increasing depth the natures and characters of Elvis Cole and Joe Pike. RC’s third stand-alone novel, The Two Minute Rule, was published in 2006. The eleventh entry in the Elvis Cole series, The Watchman, will be published sometime in 2007.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,017 reviews
November 1, 2022
It's been three years! Good to see you again friends.🤩
Elvis Cole is a PI in Los Angeles and his partner Joe Pike are back! I enjoyed every book in this series that I've read so far. This is book #19, Racing the Light can be read as a standalone. I still have some catching up to do as there are recurring characters that I want to know how they initially met.
A retired Stanford professor hires Cole to find her missing adult son Josh. Josh is elevating his podcast show "In Your Face" to the next level with his next secret project. Co-producing the show is his childhood buddy Ryan who appears to be hiding something from Cole. Another friend, Skylar an ex-porn star & escort is a guest on the show who also can't be reached.
As Cole digs deeper, he starts to wonder about the mom. Why does a retired professor have security protection? Why is Josh's house bugged with foreign surveillance system? It doesn't look like Cole is the only one searching for Josh. Cole asked Jon Stone, an old friend in private military contracting to help as well. And what a character this guy is! Stone is a cool guy that brings a lot of humor to lighten the intensity.
This is a suspenseful detective story with interesting characters. I enjoy the pace and witty humor along with the mystery that keeps me on my toes. Towards the end, the short chapters really add extra tension. Highly recommended!
Thank you Penguin Group, G.P. Putnam's Sons, and Netgalley for my DRC.
Published on Nov 1, 2022!
Elvis Cole is a PI in Los Angeles and his partner Joe Pike are back! I enjoyed every book in this series that I've read so far. This is book #19, Racing the Light can be read as a standalone. I still have some catching up to do as there are recurring characters that I want to know how they initially met.
A retired Stanford professor hires Cole to find her missing adult son Josh. Josh is elevating his podcast show "In Your Face" to the next level with his next secret project. Co-producing the show is his childhood buddy Ryan who appears to be hiding something from Cole. Another friend, Skylar an ex-porn star & escort is a guest on the show who also can't be reached.
As Cole digs deeper, he starts to wonder about the mom. Why does a retired professor have security protection? Why is Josh's house bugged with foreign surveillance system? It doesn't look like Cole is the only one searching for Josh. Cole asked Jon Stone, an old friend in private military contracting to help as well. And what a character this guy is! Stone is a cool guy that brings a lot of humor to lighten the intensity.
This is a suspenseful detective story with interesting characters. I enjoy the pace and witty humor along with the mystery that keeps me on my toes. Towards the end, the short chapters really add extra tension. Highly recommended!
Thank you Penguin Group, G.P. Putnam's Sons, and Netgalley for my DRC.
Published on Nov 1, 2022!
October 27, 2022
A fantastic addition to one of my favorite series!🥳
Elvis Cole is not your average private detective. I mean, let’s just start with his first name. He’s a wise cracking, free-spirit. But make no mistake, Elvis is the best private detective in the business. On the personal side…he is fiercely loyal to those in his inner circle.
When two private security guards enter his office he is instantly on alert. That is until he gets a look at his potential client, minimized by her personal body guards. A harmless looking older woman. (come on Elvis - we all know looks can be deceiving ). Her son is missing and needs Elvis to find him. Sounds simple enough!💁🏻♀�
Elvis calls in his closest friend and partner, Joe Pike. Ex-special forces, truly the muscle of the team. Not exactly the chatty type, nor someone you want to cross. With Pike’s help, Elvis is sure to find the missing man.
Not so fast Elvis! As is often the case, There are many layers to peel back behind this simple disappearance!
I love Elvis and Joe equally! And was treated to the best parts of each in this latest release.
Elvis� former love interest Lucy is back in town with her son Ben. What does this mean for Elvis? Can the two rekindle an old love or is she back for other reasons.
Joe was more all business in this read, But I enjoyed every scene he was in. Maybe we could have a bit more Joe in the next Book?🙏
If you’re a fan of the series you’ll love this latest. It can be read as a stand-alone but you’d really be missing so much fascinating backstory of all the characters! Highly recommend this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam
Elvis Cole is not your average private detective. I mean, let’s just start with his first name. He’s a wise cracking, free-spirit. But make no mistake, Elvis is the best private detective in the business. On the personal side…he is fiercely loyal to those in his inner circle.
When two private security guards enter his office he is instantly on alert. That is until he gets a look at his potential client, minimized by her personal body guards. A harmless looking older woman. (come on Elvis - we all know looks can be deceiving ). Her son is missing and needs Elvis to find him. Sounds simple enough!💁🏻♀�
Elvis calls in his closest friend and partner, Joe Pike. Ex-special forces, truly the muscle of the team. Not exactly the chatty type, nor someone you want to cross. With Pike’s help, Elvis is sure to find the missing man.
Not so fast Elvis! As is often the case, There are many layers to peel back behind this simple disappearance!
I love Elvis and Joe equally! And was treated to the best parts of each in this latest release.
Elvis� former love interest Lucy is back in town with her son Ben. What does this mean for Elvis? Can the two rekindle an old love or is she back for other reasons.
Joe was more all business in this read, But I enjoyed every scene he was in. Maybe we could have a bit more Joe in the next Book?🙏
If you’re a fan of the series you’ll love this latest. It can be read as a stand-alone but you’d really be missing so much fascinating backstory of all the characters! Highly recommend this series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam
February 26, 2025
What can I say other than I recommend this book. This is another excellent addition to the series that has humor, great writing and characters. I usually listen to the audiobook version (Elvis is written so well and has such great lines) but it was not available to me. Pike was a minor player in this one. This can be read as a stand-alone but if you want a fantastic series go back and start with book 1 for many hours of enjoyment. I have been busy reading other genres and realized how much I missed this series. I enjoyed the pacing of the mystery, the action and the characters. 4.5*
March 31, 2023
Satisfying. It feels like a long time since I read a decent thriller. There's a couple narrative interruptions from other players, but on the whole, this is an Elvis-focused book. For those who wonder if they can start here, sure, why not? It does include the return of Lucy and Ben, who are from earlier in the series, but there's enough backstory given that it won't be confusing. For those looking for Joe, he's a guest more than partner in this story, but it is nice to have his taciturn counterpoint to Elvis' banter.
The last couple of books saw a steady increase in stakes and violence (hello, Hollywood!), so it was nice to feel like this backed off and returned to a more 'normal' sort of detective thriller (although the players could be called anything but normal). I do miss Crais' evocative language--this was competent, but by no means stunning--so maybe next time I'm in the mood, I'll restart the series.
Four stars on the mystery-thriller scale because it was a challenge putting it down.
The last couple of books saw a steady increase in stakes and violence (hello, Hollywood!), so it was nice to feel like this backed off and returned to a more 'normal' sort of detective thriller (although the players could be called anything but normal). I do miss Crais' evocative language--this was competent, but by no means stunning--so maybe next time I'm in the mood, I'll restart the series.
Four stars on the mystery-thriller scale because it was a challenge putting it down.
March 3, 2023
Not as exciting and cohesive as some of Crais others. 4 of 10 stars
August 14, 2024
"Elvis Cole Detective Agency. If we can't find it, it can't be found. To whom am I speaking?" -- private investigator Elvis Cole, answering his office phone
"So you agreed to help. Good. I'm pleased, but I'm surprised a man with your credentials took the job." -- Corbin Schumacher, father of a missing person
"Surprises are my business." -- Cole, responding with some positively Chandleresque delivery
I've enjoyed the Elvis Cole novels for decades now - Cole, along with Spenser and Philip Marlowe, stand shoulder-to-shoulder as my absolute favorite literary private eyes - and the series celebrated its 35th anniversary with Racing the Light. It was a pretty good but not a particularly exceptional addition to the books, as there was not enough of Joe Pike (Cole's trusty and tight-lipped ex-cop sidekick), and some of the plot threads were distractingly left sort of vague by the conclusion. However . . . it was still a very readable mystery, with the stalwart L.A.-based investigator working the usual tough case until he finds some answers AND rights some wrongs. The story this time has Cole searching for a missing podcaster - said young man dabbled in muckraking or conspiracy-laced narratives, and he apparently just stumbled onto something rather damning - who disappeared without a trace after an interview with an adult film actress-turned-call girl known to be literally in bed with some local government officials. Some of the plot was slightly reminiscent of the cinematic classic Chinatown (you know, corruption in L.A.'s high places), and it's always fun to shadow the 'not cocky, just confident' Cole - behind the wheel of his Jamaica-yellow '66 Stingray convertible - as he tracks down leads and puts together the puzzle pieces. I also especially liked that a couple of former supporting characters make return appearances, because it opens up new possibilities for the series.
"So you agreed to help. Good. I'm pleased, but I'm surprised a man with your credentials took the job." -- Corbin Schumacher, father of a missing person
"Surprises are my business." -- Cole, responding with some positively Chandleresque delivery
I've enjoyed the Elvis Cole novels for decades now - Cole, along with Spenser and Philip Marlowe, stand shoulder-to-shoulder as my absolute favorite literary private eyes - and the series celebrated its 35th anniversary with Racing the Light. It was a pretty good but not a particularly exceptional addition to the books, as there was not enough of Joe Pike (Cole's trusty and tight-lipped ex-cop sidekick), and some of the plot threads were distractingly left sort of vague by the conclusion. However . . . it was still a very readable mystery, with the stalwart L.A.-based investigator working the usual tough case until he finds some answers AND rights some wrongs. The story this time has Cole searching for a missing podcaster - said young man dabbled in muckraking or conspiracy-laced narratives, and he apparently just stumbled onto something rather damning - who disappeared without a trace after an interview with an adult film actress-turned-call girl known to be literally in bed with some local government officials. Some of the plot was slightly reminiscent of the cinematic classic Chinatown (you know, corruption in L.A.'s high places), and it's always fun to shadow the 'not cocky, just confident' Cole - behind the wheel of his Jamaica-yellow '66 Stingray convertible - as he tracks down leads and puts together the puzzle pieces. I also especially liked that a couple of former supporting characters make return appearances, because it opens up new possibilities for the series.
August 1, 2022
It’s always a joy to return to the stories of Elvis Cole and Joe Pike, but reading this, I realized I haven’t read a book in this series for quite a while, which meant I missed a whole lot of what happened in private detective Elvis Cole’s personal life. At some point I’ll go back and get myself up to date.
The case he’s on, however, can be read as a standalone. Adele Schumacher hires Elvis to find her missing adult son, who works as a controversial podcaster. The more Elvis investigates, the clearer it becomes that Josh has managed to pique the interest of characters who are unsavory enough to also be following him. Elvis calls in Joe Pike to assist. Their investigation uncovers government conspiracies, aliens, and adult film star/escorts.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES NOVEMBER 1, 2022.
The case he’s on, however, can be read as a standalone. Adele Schumacher hires Elvis to find her missing adult son, who works as a controversial podcaster. The more Elvis investigates, the clearer it becomes that Josh has managed to pique the interest of characters who are unsavory enough to also be following him. Elvis calls in Joe Pike to assist. Their investigation uncovers government conspiracies, aliens, and adult film star/escorts.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES NOVEMBER 1, 2022.
February 21, 2023
The 19th book in the Elvis Cole series, Racing the Light plonks you down comfortably in the PI’s office where he picks up yet another case from a woman in distress. There is a reason why this series has been one of my favourites and it comes down to the familiarity of the quips, the decisive action of the hero protagonist, the certainty of the backup in the form of Joe Pike and the crazy unexpected direction his seemingly straightforward cases tend to head. And, sure as eggs, this is exactly what’s delivered here.
Elvis is hired by a woman named Adele Schumacher to find her adult son, Joel (who hosts a podcast and goes by the name Joel Shoe). The podcast acts as a type of watchdog on corruption and conspiracies and dares to go further and deeper than the mainstream media. Could it be that he has gone just that little bit too far and is paying the price?
The alarm bells ring for Elvis from the presence of two minders who accompanied Adele into his office. This pair have a distinct Secret Service vibe about them and suggest there is something more going on that he’s not been told about.
Starting by talking to Joel’s friends appears to be the wise course of action for Elvis to take. But this only leads to further unease when he learns that friend and ex-porn star Skylar has also gone missing. Stopping by Joel’s house then leads him to discover there are others looking for him too - and they appear to be equipped with some extremely sophisticated surveillance equipment.
Realising that he was now treading waters out of his depth he brings in the help of the ever-reliable Joe Pike. As a bonus, Jon Stone, military gadget guru who brooks no nonsense and expects to be paid handsomely is also brought in. Once the gang's all together they take the “simple� investigation to a new level and things begin twisting out of control.
Just to ensure Elvis� toes are fully kept on, Lucy Chenier, his long-distance love interest who lives in New Orleans has contacted him to let him know she and her son Ben will be hitting town in the next day or so. Their relationship had been left at a bit of a crossroads, so it’s with an equal measure of anticipation and trepidation that he looks forward to their arrival. Concentrating solely on his current case is going to involve some emotional juggling, that’s for sure.
Now, here’s the thing, I’m an Elvis Cole fan and will gladly gobble down any novel that involves him - my Robert Crais-infested bookshelves are testament to that. However�
On the one hand, I was revelling in the familiarity of this Elvis Cole investigation. Same snappy dialogue, same Pinnocchio clock, same morning exercise regimen, same cranky cat, same reliable backup in the form of Joe Pike. Then it hit me. This was ultimately the same Elvis Cole story I had read in the early days. (Cue the Barenaked Ladies singing It’s All Been Done). So, yes, I was in my happy place reading an Elvis Cole PI novel, but I would have appreciated some signs of growth and greater depth of character.
And on the other hand, even the standard run of the mill Elvis Cole investigations (and this is one) scratches the itch sufficiently for me to be happy and satisfied. You can read it as a stand alone novel, Elvis is a darn good investigator with a keen nose and ability to put the disparate pieces of a jumbled jigsaw together. But I think you’d enjoy it more if you’ve travelled the journey to this point with him and all of his quirky habits.
Elvis is hired by a woman named Adele Schumacher to find her adult son, Joel (who hosts a podcast and goes by the name Joel Shoe). The podcast acts as a type of watchdog on corruption and conspiracies and dares to go further and deeper than the mainstream media. Could it be that he has gone just that little bit too far and is paying the price?
The alarm bells ring for Elvis from the presence of two minders who accompanied Adele into his office. This pair have a distinct Secret Service vibe about them and suggest there is something more going on that he’s not been told about.
Starting by talking to Joel’s friends appears to be the wise course of action for Elvis to take. But this only leads to further unease when he learns that friend and ex-porn star Skylar has also gone missing. Stopping by Joel’s house then leads him to discover there are others looking for him too - and they appear to be equipped with some extremely sophisticated surveillance equipment.
Realising that he was now treading waters out of his depth he brings in the help of the ever-reliable Joe Pike. As a bonus, Jon Stone, military gadget guru who brooks no nonsense and expects to be paid handsomely is also brought in. Once the gang's all together they take the “simple� investigation to a new level and things begin twisting out of control.
Just to ensure Elvis� toes are fully kept on, Lucy Chenier, his long-distance love interest who lives in New Orleans has contacted him to let him know she and her son Ben will be hitting town in the next day or so. Their relationship had been left at a bit of a crossroads, so it’s with an equal measure of anticipation and trepidation that he looks forward to their arrival. Concentrating solely on his current case is going to involve some emotional juggling, that’s for sure.
Now, here’s the thing, I’m an Elvis Cole fan and will gladly gobble down any novel that involves him - my Robert Crais-infested bookshelves are testament to that. However�
On the one hand, I was revelling in the familiarity of this Elvis Cole investigation. Same snappy dialogue, same Pinnocchio clock, same morning exercise regimen, same cranky cat, same reliable backup in the form of Joe Pike. Then it hit me. This was ultimately the same Elvis Cole story I had read in the early days. (Cue the Barenaked Ladies singing It’s All Been Done). So, yes, I was in my happy place reading an Elvis Cole PI novel, but I would have appreciated some signs of growth and greater depth of character.
And on the other hand, even the standard run of the mill Elvis Cole investigations (and this is one) scratches the itch sufficiently for me to be happy and satisfied. You can read it as a stand alone novel, Elvis is a darn good investigator with a keen nose and ability to put the disparate pieces of a jumbled jigsaw together. But I think you’d enjoy it more if you’ve travelled the journey to this point with him and all of his quirky habits.
November 3, 2022
Plodding and lackluster entry
One dimensional characters, villains who never make an appearance, a plot that has no pace because it has no direction, eye rolling dialogue, action less action scenes, and zero suspense warrant two stars. The return of Lucy and the saccharine hand wringing whine of Cole’s juvenile heart strings should have pushed it to one. Too harsh on a long running series I have enjoyed until recently? To quote from the novel, “Dude, just sayin.’�
One dimensional characters, villains who never make an appearance, a plot that has no pace because it has no direction, eye rolling dialogue, action less action scenes, and zero suspense warrant two stars. The return of Lucy and the saccharine hand wringing whine of Cole’s juvenile heart strings should have pushed it to one. Too harsh on a long running series I have enjoyed until recently? To quote from the novel, “Dude, just sayin.’�
January 24, 2023
Racing the Light is the nineteenth book in the Elvis Cole series, about a wisecracking LA Private Investigator and his Strong Silent associate Joe Pike. This has been one of my favourite thriller series, and it’s been 2&1/2 years since the last book, so I was very much looking forward to it. I could only ever Wish for the ARC on NetGalley, so used an Audible credit to purchase this, thinking that my husband would also enjoy it - they are all stand-alone stories so it wouldn’t matter that he hadn’t read any of the previous books. If I had read my review of the last one beforehand, I would’ve reverted to the ebook - I do not like the way Luke Daniels voices characters, especially not for Pike - he sounds like a villain in a kid’s cartoon, and he’s hopeless at female voices too. I was also very disappointed by the plot of this one - most unthrilling.
Elvis is hired by the mother of obnoxious investigative podcast broadcaster Joshua Shoe to find him: she is convinced her son has been kidnapped, but the police aren’t interested. His friend thinks he’s chasing another UFO story in Roswell, but Elvis soon discovers that Josh had stumbled onto a corruption scandal - and that he’s not the only one looking for him. Meanwhile, Cole’s ex is back in town to set his heart aflutter once more�
So here’s the thing: this series began in 1987 (I started it in 2013) and from memory Elvis & Pike would’ve been at least in their late 30s. We are not told what year this is supposed to be set in, but given the mentions of podcasts and some of the technology described (eg drones) I assume it’s recent but clearly pre-pandemic - so they must be pushing 70 - but they are still described as if they’re no more than 50. Similarly, Lucy’s son Ben was about 8 when they first met him in Voodoo River - published and presumably set around 2000 - but here he’s still only 17. And stranger still, Elvis still shares his house with the same grumpy and apparently immortal cat!! Yes I know it’s fiction, but having recently finished the latest Harry Bosch - who used to be Cole’s contemporary - and whose ageing has been a crucial part of the ongoing story arc, I found these inconsistencies jarring. I would prefer he just set these books back in the 2000s if he wants to keep his heroes ageless.
I also didn’t think much of the story itself. Various potentially intriguing elements are introduced but then discarded - eg what exactly did Josh’s parents do for the military that entitles them to a team of bodyguards? Why did call girl and wannabe artist Skylar go to Josh with her potentially dangerous story? There are chapters from lots of different character perspectives, but only Elvis� are told in first person. The conspiracy itself was pretty boring and there was no suspense, unless you count the Will-they-won’t-they between Elvis and Lucy. There wasn’t nearly enough Pike, and Jon Stone, who I’ve previously quite liked, has turned into a complete @rsehole! Finally, the title makes no sense at all!!
I’m being generous giving this 3 stars - 2.5 rounded up, really. I’m not yet ready to give up on these characters - anyone can have one bad instalment in a series this long, but must remember not to bother with the audiobook next time, and just hope that the next one will be a Pike-centred story.
Elvis is hired by the mother of obnoxious investigative podcast broadcaster Joshua Shoe to find him: she is convinced her son has been kidnapped, but the police aren’t interested. His friend thinks he’s chasing another UFO story in Roswell, but Elvis soon discovers that Josh had stumbled onto a corruption scandal - and that he’s not the only one looking for him. Meanwhile, Cole’s ex is back in town to set his heart aflutter once more�
So here’s the thing: this series began in 1987 (I started it in 2013) and from memory Elvis & Pike would’ve been at least in their late 30s. We are not told what year this is supposed to be set in, but given the mentions of podcasts and some of the technology described (eg drones) I assume it’s recent but clearly pre-pandemic - so they must be pushing 70 - but they are still described as if they’re no more than 50. Similarly, Lucy’s son Ben was about 8 when they first met him in Voodoo River - published and presumably set around 2000 - but here he’s still only 17. And stranger still, Elvis still shares his house with the same grumpy and apparently immortal cat!! Yes I know it’s fiction, but having recently finished the latest Harry Bosch - who used to be Cole’s contemporary - and whose ageing has been a crucial part of the ongoing story arc, I found these inconsistencies jarring. I would prefer he just set these books back in the 2000s if he wants to keep his heroes ageless.
I also didn’t think much of the story itself. Various potentially intriguing elements are introduced but then discarded - eg what exactly did Josh’s parents do for the military that entitles them to a team of bodyguards? Why did call girl and wannabe artist Skylar go to Josh with her potentially dangerous story? There are chapters from lots of different character perspectives, but only Elvis� are told in first person. The conspiracy itself was pretty boring and there was no suspense, unless you count the Will-they-won’t-they between Elvis and Lucy. There wasn’t nearly enough Pike, and Jon Stone, who I’ve previously quite liked, has turned into a complete @rsehole! Finally, the title makes no sense at all!!
I’m being generous giving this 3 stars - 2.5 rounded up, really. I’m not yet ready to give up on these characters - anyone can have one bad instalment in a series this long, but must remember not to bother with the audiobook next time, and just hope that the next one will be a Pike-centred story.
November 10, 2022
I haven’t followed this series from the start but I have dipped in often enough to get a pretty good handle on Elvis Cole and his sidekick Joe Pike. The L.A. based pair offer a yin and yang private investigation service: Cole providing the comedic input and Pike most of the muscle. But this time around Pike appears in a peripheral role only, leaving Elvis to do the heavy lifting. To add spice to proceedings Cole’s ex-girlfriend, Lucy Chenier, flies in with her son Ben. They’ve long remained friends, but does this visit herald a step change to their relationship?
The case Cole is hired to investigate concerns a controversial podcaster known as Josh Shoe who has disappeared along with a female friend, an adult movie actress. Josh’s mother - a strange figure permanently surrounded by a posse of bodyguards � is funding the investigation. At this stage we know a little more than the detective, courtesy of the opening scene of the book, but with little to go on Cole can’t quite figure out whether he wants to look for a guy who might just be off on a jaunt to Vegas or spend his time figuring out what’s on Lucy’s mind.
The action takes a while to get going amid a good deal of speculation concerning what role Joe’s mother, or his equally mysterious and very rude father, may have played in Joe’s disappearance. But the pace eventually picks up as some of the pieces of the puzzle start to come together. On the home front, the situation with Lucy is complicated, and this mix of Cole’s private and professional concerns just about combined to maintain my interested in this rather slow moving episode. The main saviour for me here was the enjoyment I always get from the interactions between the characters and the humour Crais routinely weaves into these tales.
It’s not my favourite book in the series but I always enjoy my time with Cole and Pike. Will I be back for more? Of course I will. My thanks to Simon and Schuster UK for providing an e-copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The case Cole is hired to investigate concerns a controversial podcaster known as Josh Shoe who has disappeared along with a female friend, an adult movie actress. Josh’s mother - a strange figure permanently surrounded by a posse of bodyguards � is funding the investigation. At this stage we know a little more than the detective, courtesy of the opening scene of the book, but with little to go on Cole can’t quite figure out whether he wants to look for a guy who might just be off on a jaunt to Vegas or spend his time figuring out what’s on Lucy’s mind.
The action takes a while to get going amid a good deal of speculation concerning what role Joe’s mother, or his equally mysterious and very rude father, may have played in Joe’s disappearance. But the pace eventually picks up as some of the pieces of the puzzle start to come together. On the home front, the situation with Lucy is complicated, and this mix of Cole’s private and professional concerns just about combined to maintain my interested in this rather slow moving episode. The main saviour for me here was the enjoyment I always get from the interactions between the characters and the humour Crais routinely weaves into these tales.
It’s not my favourite book in the series but I always enjoy my time with Cole and Pike. Will I be back for more? Of course I will. My thanks to Simon and Schuster UK for providing an e-copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2023
It’s been a while since I read about the adventures of wisecracking L.A. detective Elvis Cole and his laconic partner in crime-fighting Joe Pike and it was good to get reacquainted.
Elvis is hired by Adele Schumacher to find her missing son Joshua, who, under the moniker of Josh Shoe hosts an internet podcast called “In Your Face� in which he attempts to uncover corruption and conspiracies the mainstream media daren’t touch. Elvis suspects this is no normal missing persons case when Adele arrives at his office with two minders called Wendy and Kurt who have a definite Secret Service aura about them It would appear that Adele and her estranged husband Corbin both have a dark past they wish to remain confidential.
Elvis and Joe soon find themselves caught up in a fraudulent real-estate business involving Chinese oligarchs and crooked local politicians. To make matters worse, Elvis’s on-off girlfriend Lucy Chenier and her son Ben have arrived for a surprise visit. He fears their safety could be just as much at risk as his own.
As with all the previous novels in this series, this is a no-nonsense, straight ahead action thriller with frequent dashes of human interest and wry humour. Robert Crais expertly delivers all one would expect from him.
Elvis is hired by Adele Schumacher to find her missing son Joshua, who, under the moniker of Josh Shoe hosts an internet podcast called “In Your Face� in which he attempts to uncover corruption and conspiracies the mainstream media daren’t touch. Elvis suspects this is no normal missing persons case when Adele arrives at his office with two minders called Wendy and Kurt who have a definite Secret Service aura about them It would appear that Adele and her estranged husband Corbin both have a dark past they wish to remain confidential.
Elvis and Joe soon find themselves caught up in a fraudulent real-estate business involving Chinese oligarchs and crooked local politicians. To make matters worse, Elvis’s on-off girlfriend Lucy Chenier and her son Ben have arrived for a surprise visit. He fears their safety could be just as much at risk as his own.
As with all the previous novels in this series, this is a no-nonsense, straight ahead action thriller with frequent dashes of human interest and wry humour. Robert Crais expertly delivers all one would expect from him.
January 6, 2025
I love a good suspense novel with short chapters, and this one does not disappoint.
And...This is one with reoccurring characters Elvis Cole and Joe Pike...
But... It doesn’t mean that you would have to read previous novels to pick this one up � it is truly a great stand-alone.
Still...Best advice is always to start at the beginning with any series.
With this one...Private Detective, Elvis Cole is asked to find Adele’s missing son, Josh who does a podcast. He doesn’t appear to be controversial, so what could have caused him to disappear?
As it turns out... There is more to this case than anybody would expect.
What could this small time podcaster have that would have so many people interested, and cause a one time porn star to get murdered? Enjoy this page-turning thrill ride.
And...This is one with reoccurring characters Elvis Cole and Joe Pike...
But... It doesn’t mean that you would have to read previous novels to pick this one up � it is truly a great stand-alone.
Still...Best advice is always to start at the beginning with any series.
With this one...Private Detective, Elvis Cole is asked to find Adele’s missing son, Josh who does a podcast. He doesn’t appear to be controversial, so what could have caused him to disappear?
As it turns out... There is more to this case than anybody would expect.
What could this small time podcaster have that would have so many people interested, and cause a one time porn star to get murdered? Enjoy this page-turning thrill ride.
February 12, 2023
Just when I needed to read a book that I knew I’d enjoy, my hold on the latest Robert Crais novel became available—after a four-month wait. I’ve read the entire Elvis Cole series, and so was quite sure that I’d have a four- or five-star treat. I was not disappointed.
RACING THE LIGHT is billed as an Elvis Cole/Joe Pike novel, but this time Pike plays only a supporting role, ready to help Elvis when a strong arm is needed (and assist Jon Stone when technical expertise is required), but the spotlight is on Cole in this one. He is hired by a mysterious woman, Adele Schumacher, to find her adult son, Josh. Josh is working as a podcaster, although his “work� is not paying the bills; Adele is. After Elvis connects with Josh’s partner, Ryan Seborg, the investigation takes several twists and turns, as Elvis follows clues that lead from both (1) a previous podcast subject and (2) the past employment history of Josh’s mother and estranged father.
In addition, Elvis’s former love interest (from many books earlier), Lucy Chenier, re-enters the picture when she and her son fly in from Louisiana with the possibility of re-kindling the relationship she once had with Elvis.
I love Cole’s wit and the investigation was complex enough to maintain my interest. But this was a four-star novel because the Lucy section had nothing to do with the case and took up space explaining the past entanglements between Elvis and Lucy to readers new to the series—entanglements that had occurred several books previously. Furthermore, like Elvis� cat, I have never liked Lucy. Also, near the ending, after the mystery had been worked out, I was bewildered by Josh’s actions once he knew the dangers his investigations had unearthed. Josh was described several times as being very intelligent but as the story progressed, he did not come across as especially intelligent, but as the self-indulgent son of two former university professors.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for some earlier books in the series:
The Wanted (Elvis Cole, #17; Joe Pike, #6)
A Dangerous Man (Elvis Cole #18; Joe Pike, #7)
Taken (Elvis Cole, #15; Joe Pike, #4)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
RACING THE LIGHT is billed as an Elvis Cole/Joe Pike novel, but this time Pike plays only a supporting role, ready to help Elvis when a strong arm is needed (and assist Jon Stone when technical expertise is required), but the spotlight is on Cole in this one. He is hired by a mysterious woman, Adele Schumacher, to find her adult son, Josh. Josh is working as a podcaster, although his “work� is not paying the bills; Adele is. After Elvis connects with Josh’s partner, Ryan Seborg, the investigation takes several twists and turns, as Elvis follows clues that lead from both (1) a previous podcast subject and (2) the past employment history of Josh’s mother and estranged father.
In addition, Elvis’s former love interest (from many books earlier), Lucy Chenier, re-enters the picture when she and her son fly in from Louisiana with the possibility of re-kindling the relationship she once had with Elvis.
I love Cole’s wit and the investigation was complex enough to maintain my interest. But this was a four-star novel because the Lucy section had nothing to do with the case and took up space explaining the past entanglements between Elvis and Lucy to readers new to the series—entanglements that had occurred several books previously. Furthermore, like Elvis� cat, I have never liked Lucy. Also, near the ending, after the mystery had been worked out, I was bewildered by Josh’s actions once he knew the dangers his investigations had unearthed. Josh was described several times as being very intelligent but as the story progressed, he did not come across as especially intelligent, but as the self-indulgent son of two former university professors.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for some earlier books in the series:
The Wanted (Elvis Cole, #17; Joe Pike, #6)
A Dangerous Man (Elvis Cole #18; Joe Pike, #7)
Taken (Elvis Cole, #15; Joe Pike, #4)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
February 17, 2023
Another great read from Robert Crais featuring Elvis Cole, smartass yet very effective detective and Joe Pike, Elvis' quiet, almost antisocial, incredible physical force of a partner.
An older woman in a cheap cotton housedress shows up in Elvis' office one day with two, perhaps FBI, bodyguards, a bag full of cash, wild tales about her missing son and conspiracies. Somehow Elvis is convinced to take the case. The missing son, Josh, is a relatively unknown, almost friendless podcaster who has a rather peculiar partner and is close to a very well-known porn actress - not close in THAT way. Josh has never really done anything of note and is the constant object of ridicule by his father. Josh is also vastly overweight, socially unskilled, and living on handouts from his mother. Yet he seems to have discovered something that has put his life at risk.
Elvis finds out that there is much more to the mom with the bag of cash than he would have ever guessed. Josh seems to have engineered his own disappearance, but why? Elvis' hunt for Josh takes him to places and people he would never have guessed were involved. Josh´s podcast investigation has led him to very dangerous people. If Elvis doesn't find him soon, Josh will probably be killed.
Crais has written another well-plotted and fast-paced novel populated with quirky but believable characters and the obligatory twists and turns. A fun read that I can recommend to anyone who enjoys cop investigations sprinkled with humor but since this is the 19th Elvis Cole book, you would be well advised to start at the beginning of the series to avoid missing much of the backstory.
fini
An older woman in a cheap cotton housedress shows up in Elvis' office one day with two, perhaps FBI, bodyguards, a bag full of cash, wild tales about her missing son and conspiracies. Somehow Elvis is convinced to take the case. The missing son, Josh, is a relatively unknown, almost friendless podcaster who has a rather peculiar partner and is close to a very well-known porn actress - not close in THAT way. Josh has never really done anything of note and is the constant object of ridicule by his father. Josh is also vastly overweight, socially unskilled, and living on handouts from his mother. Yet he seems to have discovered something that has put his life at risk.
Elvis finds out that there is much more to the mom with the bag of cash than he would have ever guessed. Josh seems to have engineered his own disappearance, but why? Elvis' hunt for Josh takes him to places and people he would never have guessed were involved. Josh´s podcast investigation has led him to very dangerous people. If Elvis doesn't find him soon, Josh will probably be killed.
Crais has written another well-plotted and fast-paced novel populated with quirky but believable characters and the obligatory twists and turns. A fun read that I can recommend to anyone who enjoys cop investigations sprinkled with humor but since this is the 19th Elvis Cole book, you would be well advised to start at the beginning of the series to avoid missing much of the backstory.
fini
March 31, 2022
My thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons, as well as to NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Racing the Light.
I have loved private investigator Elvis Cole and his enigmatic partner Joe Pike for so many years! Racing the Light is filled with quite the cast of quirky characters! Possibly a few too many...
This time around Elvis is hired by an eccentric older woman who is trying to locate her missing son, and Elvis is pulled in every way imaginable as he follows clues. (It's too bad his Felix the Cat clock doesn't help him out once in a while!) I was thrilled to see Lucy and Ben again but I wish Joe had played a larger part in this book.
As usual, this Elvis/Joe book is filled with heart, humor, and suspense. I think I would have appreciated it even more if the plot had been a wee bit less convoluted. Having said that, however, I can't wait to read the next book (or books) in the series!!!
I have loved private investigator Elvis Cole and his enigmatic partner Joe Pike for so many years! Racing the Light is filled with quite the cast of quirky characters! Possibly a few too many...
This time around Elvis is hired by an eccentric older woman who is trying to locate her missing son, and Elvis is pulled in every way imaginable as he follows clues. (It's too bad his Felix the Cat clock doesn't help him out once in a while!) I was thrilled to see Lucy and Ben again but I wish Joe had played a larger part in this book.
As usual, this Elvis/Joe book is filled with heart, humor, and suspense. I think I would have appreciated it even more if the plot had been a wee bit less convoluted. Having said that, however, I can't wait to read the next book (or books) in the series!!!
December 10, 2022
I am a long time fan of Elvis and Joe. I have enjoyed reading their exploits since the inception of the series. Therefore, I happily anticipated Robert Crais� newest installment . It is a disappointment . It began with an exciting scene and promising scenario. Then POOF! It quickly became dull and lackluster. I plodded along until the 50% mark, started skimming until the 84% mark, then gave up. Boring. No humor. No tension. No suspense. No thrills & chills. No joy. No good. The end.
Read the earlier works by Robert Crais.
Read the earlier works by Robert Crais.
February 25, 2022
Oh Elvis, how I've missed you! When Elvis is hired by an eccentric woman to find her son, the hunt turns out to be something more than he expected. All of our favorites are here- Joe Pike and Jon Stone are there to assist, and Lucy and Ben make an appearance. Highly recommend for fans of the series and for those who have missed Elvis and Joe.
January 2, 2023
Elvis Cole is hired to find Josh Shoe the missing son of a wealthy woman. While the woman herself is somewhat strange since she is surrounded with security everywhere she goes Elvis has no reason to think this is anything but a son who is of age wanting to get out from under a controlling mother.
Josh Shoe is an amateur podcaster and the more Elvis delves into his disappearance it becomes clear that there is much more to this story especially when one of Josh’s close female friends turns up dead!
Elvis finds a bed of political corruption that Josh has unearthed making the job way more dangerous than first meets the eye.
Call Joe!
Elvis� ex-girlfriend, Lucy, and her son Ben make an appearance and it looks like they might try to make the relationship work this time. Since I don’t remember these characters from previous books, this story line didn’t click with me one way or another.
Elvis and Joe make a very cool team every time and I like them both. The snappy dialogue makes this is a fast read.
Josh Shoe is an amateur podcaster and the more Elvis delves into his disappearance it becomes clear that there is much more to this story especially when one of Josh’s close female friends turns up dead!
Elvis finds a bed of political corruption that Josh has unearthed making the job way more dangerous than first meets the eye.
Call Joe!
Elvis� ex-girlfriend, Lucy, and her son Ben make an appearance and it looks like they might try to make the relationship work this time. Since I don’t remember these characters from previous books, this story line didn’t click with me one way or another.
Elvis and Joe make a very cool team every time and I like them both. The snappy dialogue makes this is a fast read.
May 18, 2022
Elvis Cole is back! Robert Crais's new book is a fun, fast paced ride. Racing the Light is the 19th addition to the series. I have always enjoyed Elvis Cole and Joe Pike (really need to see more of him) and the adding Jon Stone to the mix is great! When Adele Schumacher, an eccentric older woman hires Elvis to find her missing son, Josh Shoe, a podcaster and self-proclaimed investigative journalist he unleashes a wealth of secrets leading to someone dead, Throw in a few other surprises and the head turning spins and twists start happening.
This can be read as a standalone but you miss so much character development. Previous books in the series were mentioned, but does not detract, and it still flowed well. Highly recommended for everyone. Well written, fast paced, and unputdownable! If you haven't read an Elvis Cole novel, be sure and start at the beginning ... you won't be disappointed.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group for an advance copy!
This can be read as a standalone but you miss so much character development. Previous books in the series were mentioned, but does not detract, and it still flowed well. Highly recommended for everyone. Well written, fast paced, and unputdownable! If you haven't read an Elvis Cole novel, be sure and start at the beginning ... you won't be disappointed.
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group for an advance copy!
May 3, 2024
This book has everything: UFOs; pornstars; Elvis; MTV's Dan Cortez. Crais is a master in taking marginalized people/victims and evolving them into heroes with humor, humanity, and the occasional ass-kicking. The location is usually just a backdrop with no real bearing on the story. Los Angeles plays a prominent role and is integral to his books. And no one is better at using a city as a character than Robert Crais.
September 30, 2022
Robert Crais has long been one of my favorite authors, his series about Cole and Pike is superb. Racing the Light is no exception, I hope many of you out there will buy it and enjoy it as much as I did. Elvis Cole is like no other detective out there and his friends are great characters. These books are filled with humor and action and even some love. I can really recommend the books by this author I have read everything except one and that I will correct. I must thank Edelweiss, G.P. Putnam's Sons and Penguin Random House for letting me read this great book.
November 8, 2022
Flat and just ok. 2.5 stars. Given how he sets things up, I suspect that Crais started to write a thriller based on linking the missing son’s disappearance to his parents� secret scientific research for the dark ops of US intelligence but abandoned that idea half way through and concluded with a generic LA civic corruption case with bad guys who never come into view.
Also: the title makes no sense and must have been generated by some kind of publishing AI Bot which produces vaguely portentous titles regardless of content or story.
Also: the title makes no sense and must have been generated by some kind of publishing AI Bot which produces vaguely portentous titles regardless of content or story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2022
I have read all of the previous books in this series, some multiple times, and it was wonderful to see that Robert Crais brought Elvis and Joe back after a long period of away-time without any fuss whatsoever. What a truly gifted author he is.
Elvis Cole is hired to find the adult son of a woman who is accompanied to his office by two people acting suspiciously like bodyguards. How many cars of people does it take to bring one woman downtown to Cole's office? And why does this woman carry so much cash around with her? Then as he begins to investigate the missing person his valuable information sources start bumping up against brick walls that feel uncannily like government roadblocks. Who is this missing guy who does a podcast about UFO's and the aliens who walk among us?
There is never enough of the Joe Pike character included in an Elvis book for me, but he definitely has a nice number of appearances. They even rope in Jon Stone to help out when the technology passes anything Elvis or Joe are familiar with. I love it that Jon keeps trying so hard to be a bad guy (he's always reminding Elvis that he gets paid mega-huge bucks for his services), but he always gives in to the "fun" of the chase. Lucy and Ben fly in from Baton Rouge on a rather flimsy excuse and she and Elvis spend lots of time trying to figure out their relationship. I can see lots of book plots on the horizon so I'm in hopes that the next book in the series will not be so long in coming as this one was. A very enjoyable novel written by a favorite author about favorite characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for an e-galley of this novel.
Elvis Cole is hired to find the adult son of a woman who is accompanied to his office by two people acting suspiciously like bodyguards. How many cars of people does it take to bring one woman downtown to Cole's office? And why does this woman carry so much cash around with her? Then as he begins to investigate the missing person his valuable information sources start bumping up against brick walls that feel uncannily like government roadblocks. Who is this missing guy who does a podcast about UFO's and the aliens who walk among us?
There is never enough of the Joe Pike character included in an Elvis book for me, but he definitely has a nice number of appearances. They even rope in Jon Stone to help out when the technology passes anything Elvis or Joe are familiar with. I love it that Jon keeps trying so hard to be a bad guy (he's always reminding Elvis that he gets paid mega-huge bucks for his services), but he always gives in to the "fun" of the chase. Lucy and Ben fly in from Baton Rouge on a rather flimsy excuse and she and Elvis spend lots of time trying to figure out their relationship. I can see lots of book plots on the horizon so I'm in hopes that the next book in the series will not be so long in coming as this one was. A very enjoyable novel written by a favorite author about favorite characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Group Putnam for an e-galley of this novel.
May 11, 2023
Like hanging out with an old friend, reading this book was a pleasure. If you haven’t read this series, do yourself a favor and start with, “The Monkey’s Raincoat.�
March 23, 2023
Two ingredients are essential for an Elvis Cole novel: Joe Pike cracking heads and Elvis Cole wise-cracking along the way to solving the case. And while both of these ingredients appear in this latest issue, they are both in short supply.
The plot is fine, and the usual cat and mouse games are present, but this novel felt just a bit, well, light. As in, missing something... like when someone is making a recipe and asks you to taste it and you say, "hmmm, it's good but, it's missing something."
In Racing The Light Elvis is hired by Adele Schumacher to locate her missing son, Josh. Adele is accompanied by two bodyguards that appear, for all intents and purposes, to be some form of governmental agents. Seems as though Adele, who earned her Doctorate in some advanced mathematics field years ago, might have once worked in a very secret governmental department. Maybe, maybe not-- no one's admitting anything.
But despite Josh's activities as a podcaster, Elvis has trouble finding him. The search will eventually lead to a conspiracy, graft, corruption, murder, and even foreign powers muscling in on Elvis' beloved Los Angeles. He eventually enlists the aid of his pal, Joe Pike, but the latter plays a rather minor role here. Crais even brings in Jon Stone, a mercenary buddy of Joe's, as if to strengthen the team and keep the reader's interest on the boil.
That's hard to do, thanks to the amount of energy that Crais devotes to Elvis' relationship with his onetime girlfriend, Lucy Chenier and her son, Ben, up visiting from Baton Rouge. Lucy puts Elvis through an emotional wringer as she mulls over whether or not to commit to their relationship once again and face her fears about his dangerous lifestyle. Through this lens, we see a softer side of Elvis Cole, one who craves the emotional connection that Lucy can provide. As Crais puts it toward the end of the story, Elvis needs to be held, and Lucy holds him. Oy.
The story wraps up rather predictably and all is well with Elvis, at least for now. But I have to worry if this is the direction any future Elvis Cole novels will take. I longed for more clever repartee coming from Elvis, and more action with Joe Pike, and less "getting in touch with our feelings." Crais is an excellent writer and can still produce an entertaining novel, so I'll be optimistic and keep my fingers crossed. Three and a half stars, rounded down due to the missing ingredient.
The plot is fine, and the usual cat and mouse games are present, but this novel felt just a bit, well, light. As in, missing something... like when someone is making a recipe and asks you to taste it and you say, "hmmm, it's good but, it's missing something."
In Racing The Light Elvis is hired by Adele Schumacher to locate her missing son, Josh. Adele is accompanied by two bodyguards that appear, for all intents and purposes, to be some form of governmental agents. Seems as though Adele, who earned her Doctorate in some advanced mathematics field years ago, might have once worked in a very secret governmental department. Maybe, maybe not-- no one's admitting anything.
But despite Josh's activities as a podcaster, Elvis has trouble finding him. The search will eventually lead to a conspiracy, graft, corruption, murder, and even foreign powers muscling in on Elvis' beloved Los Angeles. He eventually enlists the aid of his pal, Joe Pike, but the latter plays a rather minor role here. Crais even brings in Jon Stone, a mercenary buddy of Joe's, as if to strengthen the team and keep the reader's interest on the boil.
That's hard to do, thanks to the amount of energy that Crais devotes to Elvis' relationship with his onetime girlfriend, Lucy Chenier and her son, Ben, up visiting from Baton Rouge. Lucy puts Elvis through an emotional wringer as she mulls over whether or not to commit to their relationship once again and face her fears about his dangerous lifestyle. Through this lens, we see a softer side of Elvis Cole, one who craves the emotional connection that Lucy can provide. As Crais puts it toward the end of the story, Elvis needs to be held, and Lucy holds him. Oy.
The story wraps up rather predictably and all is well with Elvis, at least for now. But I have to worry if this is the direction any future Elvis Cole novels will take. I longed for more clever repartee coming from Elvis, and more action with Joe Pike, and less "getting in touch with our feelings." Crais is an excellent writer and can still produce an entertaining novel, so I'll be optimistic and keep my fingers crossed. Three and a half stars, rounded down due to the missing ingredient.
November 19, 2022
Elvis Cole and Joe Pike are back and show that they haven't lost a step in the three years they've been away. With a bonus appearance by Lucy Chenier and her teenage son Ben. (It was good to see them again). I've been a fan since the beginning and I was not disappointed with this outing.
The mystery was tricky--a missing person case which quickly developed complications.
Josh Schumacher and his buddy Ryan Seborg ran a podcast that usually focused on subject such as Roswell, conspiracies about aliens, Area 51--that sort of thing. But now Josh has a new line of inquiry. Thanks to info from a friend Josh is now chasing a crooked local politician who has ties to a PRC land developer. And someone is chasing back. Josh's mother hires Elvis to find Josh, believing that Josh has simply run off; Elvis soon discovers it is much more serious than mom thinks it is.
While we are treated to the usual snark from Elvis, we also spend some time with the not often seen 'worried Elvis': he's worried about Lucy's unstated reasons for showing up; he's worried about Josh, who is obviously in way over his head; he's worried about the identity of the bad guys. All of this worrying does not prevent Elvis from being the smart, savvy investigator we've come to know over the years..
I liked the way the story developed; my interest never lagged. I thought Crais did a good job of wrapping up all the details. And it was so good to see Elvis and Joe back in action. I hope it isn't another 3 years before we see Elvis and Joe again.
The mystery was tricky--a missing person case which quickly developed complications.
Josh Schumacher and his buddy Ryan Seborg ran a podcast that usually focused on subject such as Roswell, conspiracies about aliens, Area 51--that sort of thing. But now Josh has a new line of inquiry. Thanks to info from a friend Josh is now chasing a crooked local politician who has ties to a PRC land developer. And someone is chasing back. Josh's mother hires Elvis to find Josh, believing that Josh has simply run off; Elvis soon discovers it is much more serious than mom thinks it is.
While we are treated to the usual snark from Elvis, we also spend some time with the not often seen 'worried Elvis': he's worried about Lucy's unstated reasons for showing up; he's worried about Josh, who is obviously in way over his head; he's worried about the identity of the bad guys. All of this worrying does not prevent Elvis from being the smart, savvy investigator we've come to know over the years..
I liked the way the story developed; my interest never lagged. I thought Crais did a good job of wrapping up all the details. And it was so good to see Elvis and Joe back in action. I hope it isn't another 3 years before we see Elvis and Joe again.
August 20, 2022
Private investigator Elvis Cole, the “world’s greatest detective� is back in the saddle battling corrupt politicians, killers, and Area 51 loonies in RACING THE LIGHT, the nineteenth entry in this every engaging series
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Adele Schumacher walks into his office with her two “helpers� and hires Elvis to find her missing son Josh. Josh is a podcaster, and he has been given some inside documents that threaten to topple a lucrative illegal real estate scheme. It is a now murdered adult film star who provided Josh with the dirt, and he goes on the run in an effort to avoid the same fate while trying to get his story told.
Juggling the many facets of the case, Elvis calls on Joe Pike to help him take down the bad guys. I always enjoy Robert Crais’s “Elvis� books, and this is no exception. I will say, though, that I am always looking for a little more Joe Pike. The man behind the glasses and the tats seems intriguing enough to warrant a larger role.
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Adele Schumacher walks into his office with her two “helpers� and hires Elvis to find her missing son Josh. Josh is a podcaster, and he has been given some inside documents that threaten to topple a lucrative illegal real estate scheme. It is a now murdered adult film star who provided Josh with the dirt, and he goes on the run in an effort to avoid the same fate while trying to get his story told.
Juggling the many facets of the case, Elvis calls on Joe Pike to help him take down the bad guys. I always enjoy Robert Crais’s “Elvis� books, and this is no exception. I will say, though, that I am always looking for a little more Joe Pike. The man behind the glasses and the tats seems intriguing enough to warrant a larger role.
March 1, 2023
Another great addition to the Cole/Pike series. I forgot how much I love this series and am so glad I'm caught up and now I'm trying to figure out which books I missed so I can read them.
This book had a particularly strong storyline and was more than a little believable -- I recently researched a book with a slightly similar premise and interviewed several people related to graft and corruption. Some points might be a little bit over the top, but fit with the story and Crais's characters. Luke Daniel, the narrator, was again fantastic. I love how he portrayed Elvis Cole in particular. Completely fits how I envisioned him from the earlier books I read.
This book had a particularly strong storyline and was more than a little believable -- I recently researched a book with a slightly similar premise and interviewed several people related to graft and corruption. Some points might be a little bit over the top, but fit with the story and Crais's characters. Luke Daniel, the narrator, was again fantastic. I love how he portrayed Elvis Cole in particular. Completely fits how I envisioned him from the earlier books I read.
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