Lee Goldberg’s “Malibu Burning” is a crime novel that throws you headfirst into the heart of a heist with a scorching twist. Set against the backdrop of a raging wildfire threatening the idyllic Californian town of Malibu, the story follows two men on opposite sides of the law: Danny Cole, a charming ex-con with a knack for cons, and Walter Sharpe, a seasoned arson investigator.
Danny isn’t your average criminal. While undeniably skilled at elaborate cons, he also possesses a surprising moral compass. During his prison stint, he volunteered as a firefighter alongside other convicts. This experience not only honed his firefighting skills but also planted a seed of redemption within him. Now, freshly released, Danny finds himself drawn back into the world of crime, but this time with a twist. He plans to use a massive wildfire as a diversion for a daring heist.
Walter Sharpe, a jaded but dedicated arson investigator, has seen it all. Until now. The Malibu fires present a unique challenge, fueled by the infamous Santa Ana winds and a cunning arsonist who seems to be one step ahead. As the flames grow and the stakes rise, Sharpe finds himself partnered with Andrew Walker, a former US Marshal with a mysterious past. Together, they must race against time to decipher the clues and apprehend the firestarter before Malibu is reduced to ashes.
“Malibu Burning” is a fast-paced thriller that expertly weaves together the perspectives of the hunter and the hunted. Goldberg’s witty dialogue and well-developed characters keep the reader engaged, making it hard to decide who to root for: the charismatic ex-con with a questionable plan or the grizzled investigator determined to uphold the law.
“Malibu Burning” is a hit with Goodreads users, receiving praise for its “marvelous heist thriller” plot with “enough twists to make the most jaded reader smile” [Goodreads Review]. Readers appreciate the “well-written, well-researched” portrayal of both the wildfire and the arson investigation, with some even calling it Goldberg’s “best book yet” [Goodreads Review]. The combination of a thrilling heist, a dramatic wildfire setting, and complex characters makes “Malibu Burning” a must-read for fans of crime fiction and heist novels.
If you’re looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat with its captivating plot and intriguing characters, then “Malibu Burning” is definitely worth adding to your bookshelf. Just be prepared to get caught in the flames of this thrilling crime story.
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Malibu Burning (Sharpe & Walker #1) by Lee Goldberg | Goodreads
