I read one of Corcoran's later entries in the Alex Rutledge series, 'The Octopus Alibi,' and liked it so much I decided to go back and try the very first one in the series. 'The Mango Opera' actually reads more as an operetta (while we’re waiting for the fat lady to sing) of the classical touches of an opera-still, Corcoran and Rutledge are able to provide a sound duet (in the key of M-for murder!)!Ĭorcoran spins a good tale, of local color (lots of red blood), fast-paced lifestyles, and some excellent description to go along with this “moving” plot! I’m glad I’ve “found him”!

Of course, as this is the first of the series, it comes as no surprise that Alex isn’t the murderer (but we knew that already). Perhaps one of the elements of appeal is the author’s colorful descriptions of Key West(at the same time, giving us a picture of life that isn’t usually featured on their post cards). Lots of “interesting” characters move this story along-the law folks, the ex-girlfriends, and occasionally some “sane” folks, but not too many, it seems. But before the plot can be developed further-Alex becomes the prime suspect! The press is having a field day, law enforcers (county, state, and the feds) have all jumped in, and it is up to Alex to sort all this out-if he can stay out of jail long enough. It seems that a number of women (coincidentally known by Alex) are dying, or, as he knows, murdered. Seems harmless enough, but, alas, the mellow-minded Alex (who, of course, likes Jimmy Buffet music) finds himself (and his camera) in the middle of a crime puzzle. 1 of Tom Corcoran’s Alex Rutledge Mystery series, is fast reading, fast paced, and fun.Īlex is a freelance photographer and is often called on by the Key West police department to help out-plus Alex seems to have a natural curiosity and talent for working with his abilities to help solve a crime or two.

MacDonald (Travis McGee series) and Carl Hiaasen fan, too. A recently discovered series (recommended by a devoted Floridian friend) has re-awakened my interest there. It’s always a good time to read tales of flora and fauna from the Sunshine State while one is enjoying the beaches of Florida-or even thinking about those beaches.

The mango opera tom corcoran