Book Review: “The Deadly Samaritan: Good Intentions. Tragic Results.” by Michael Geczi

I have really been into psychological thrillers lately, a genre I never read much but now am starting to love. One I just read recently has sealed that even more for me. I’m talking about Michael Geczi’s “The Deadly Samaritan: Good Intentions. Tragic Results.“

Here we have a striking, nail-biting suspense with compelling characterization and the intoxicating allure of a masterfully crafted who-done-it mystery.

Set against the quaint backdrop of New England, Geczi plunges readers into a narrative whirlpool that’s as unsettling as it is captivating. The plot follows Drew McLogan, an ex-TV producer with a haunted past and a promise to fulfill. With each town and victim that falls under the shadow of the deadly Samaritan, McLogan’s relentless pursuit of the truth tangles him in a web of small-town politics, secrets, and betrayals.

Geczi’s rich tapestry of characters – from the sympathetic to the malevolent – stands out and really drew me into the story. The townsfolk have their own intricate histories and motives, adding suspicion and intrigue to the overall mystery.

The captivating dynamics of love, hate, and everything in between seamlessly blend with the overarching theme of a dangerous game of cat and mouse. It kept me up a few nights reading to see what happens next.

And the other part that stood out to me was the timeline for this novel. A child of the 90s, it was nostalgic for me, from its cultural nuances to its atmospheric tone.

While the novel delves deep into the darkness of its murderous mystery, it is also juxtaposed with lighter elements such as the budding romance between McLogan and Laurel Crandall. This delicate balance ensures that readers are not just gripped by the suspense but are also emotionally invested in the story’s heart and soul.

And finally, I also appreciate the way the book explores themes of grief, abuse, and guilt. It’s not just a story of murder, but also an exploration of humanity, capturing the myriad emotions that shape us. It’s this depth that makes the book more than just another thriller – it’s a poignant tale of redemption, healing, and the often-blurred line between good intentions and tragic outcomes.

So, there you have it! 5 stars from me. I really enjoyed Michael Geczi’s “The Deadly Samaritan: Good Intentions. Tragic Results.” It’s available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions, and it’s also in KU.

About the Author:

Michael Geczi

Former Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek, Associated Press and Dallas Morning News writer and editor; Wall Street executive; best-selling author; communications/crisis consultant and university instructor (University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism). Also author of Futures: The Anti-Inflation Investment. Lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife, Lisa.