Whiskey Island: A Milan Jacovich Mystery

Roberts's 16th Milan Jacovich mystery (after 2011's The Cleveland Creep) finds the Cleveland PI almost as tired and prickly as his dialogue as he takes on the case of federally indicted city councilman Berton K. Loftus, who's convinced he's been targeted for murder. Jacovich has been in a rough game for a long time, so taking on Kevin "K.O." O'Bannion as an assistant seems like a good idea, despite the Iraq War veteran's rough edges. Not only has their client reaped plentiful rewards from public service, he's also earned a reputation for extramarital activities, so it's no surprise when there's an actual attempt on his life. As the case heats up, the impetuous K.O. and savvy Jacovich are joined in their investigation by Det. Sgt. Tobe Blaine. The barrage of punchy banter coming from almost every character seems increasingly forced as the old pro and the young blood hone in on the villain calling the shots. (Sept.)