ARC Review: Malibu Burning by Lee Goldberg

Malibu Burning
Author: Lee Goldberg
Series: Sharpe & Walker (Book 1)
Publication: Thomas & Mercer (September 1, 2023)

Description: For a professional criminal and a relentless arson investigator, fear and revenge spread like wildfire in an incendiary thriller by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Goldberg.

Hell comes to Southern California every October. It rides in on searing Santa Ana winds that blast at near hurricane force, igniting voracious wildfires. Master thief Danny Cole longs for the flames. A tsunami of fire is exactly what he needs to pull off a daring crime and avenge a fallen friend.

As the most devastating firestorms in Los Angeles’ history scorch the hills of Malibu, relentless arson investigator Walter Sharpe and his wild card of a new partner, Andrew Walker, a former US marshal, suspect that someone set the massive blazes intentionally, a terrifying means to an unknown end.

While the flames rage out of control, Danny pursues his brilliant scheme, unaware that Sharpe and Walker are closing in. But when they all collide in a canyon of fire, everything changes, pitting them against an unexpected enemy within an inescapable inferno.

My Thoughts: The first Sharpe and Walker thriller introduces the two main characters who are arson investigators in California. Sharpe is the old veteran. Walker is new to the department after a career with the US Marshals Service. Since his wife is pregnant, he's looking for a job that will let him be home nights and his wife wants him to be in less danger,

It's October which is fire season in California and this year isn't helped when fires are being started by criminals who are determined to loot under the cover of the fires.

The story is told with a variety of flashbacks mixed with the current time. I liked the way the story was told. I liked getting to know a couple of interesting new characters. I also liked the way the story coincided with the Eve Ronin series. 

I recommend this one to anyone who enjoyed fast-paced suspense.

Favorite Quote:

Mertz stepped up beside him. "So, you're not simply stealing them, you're saving them,"

"That's right."

"From a fire you started," Mertz said.

"Let's not get bogged down in the details."

I received this one in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. You can buy your copy here.