By Forris Day Jr.
“99 Percent Kill” by Doug Richardson is the first book in a series of thrillers starring the misfit, ex L.A. County Detective, Lucky Dey. We actually meet Lucky Dey in Richardson novel “Blood Money” but now Lucky is the star of his own set of stories. Shortly after leaving his job with the city Lucky decides he wants to go back to the assignment and applies for reinstatement but while he waits to hear back he still has to pay the bills. To do this he hires himself out as a private detective. His practice is relatively successful, and as with all respectable businesses, word of mouth travels. A rich business tycoon, and ex costumer, approaches Lucky with a job offer. Lucky had found the missing daughter of the entrepreneur a few months earlier. Although the girl was found murdered Lucky was able to solve the mystery for the grieving man. Now another man, Andrew, a friend of the Tycoon has a missing daughter and needs help finding her before time runs out.
The girl is a runaway and has landed in Lucky’s old stomping grounds in Hollywood. She is one of thousands of young runaways that leave home to chase their dreams on the dirty streets of Hollywood. Her dad is determined to not lose her. Lucky reluctantly takes on the job figuring he’ll plaster some posters around town and see what happens. Lucky soon realizes nothing is as simple as it seems.
“99 Percent Kill” is a fun noir style thriller. Richardson is an adept writer who creates gritty characters that are relatable, genuine and are an absolute joy to follow through their daily lives. By the end of the book I felt as though I had made some new friends, plus a few enemies, and that is truly the sign of a well written book. The setting is the darker alleys and dirtier streets of Hollywood. Richardson’s characters and settings do for Hollywood what author Carl Hiaasen does for Florida.
I absolutely enjoyed the noir feel of this story an recommend it to all folks who love detectives, Hollywood, and gritty tales. The story moves quickly and has all the elements I expect in a noir thriller. I have never been to L.A. But after reading this I feel I know the town a bit more. If you are familiar with it you will really enjoy the locations mentioned throughout the story. I’m hooked on Lucky Dey and I firmly believe you will be too. I can’t wait to read future installments and visit my new friend Lucky Dey.
Rating: 8/10 – “A fun Hollywood noir thriller”
