Thomas B. Cavanagh, Head Games

Head Games

Thomas B. Cavanagh

Dunne, January 2007, $24.95

ISBN: 0312361327

Bob, his brain tumor, controls retired cop Mike Garrity. Though he has a teenage daughter Jennifer, two former wives, and friends from the force, Mikey expects to die in the next few months with Bob as his only companion. Neither family, former family, friends, or strangers knows how to deal with Mikey's new room mate sharing his brain space, Bob.

Another ex-cop George Neuheisel works as bodyguard to the superstar pop group Boyz Klub. However, when their lead singer TJ vanishes, he asks Mike to quietly investigate. With nothing else to do and a chance perhaps through the musical group to get closer to Jennifer, though he hides the case from her and others, he begins making inquiries, starting with other band members and the mother of the missing singer. No one offers any real information or any concern, except for George. As Bob tells him to forget the case as he has little time left to live, Mike keeps digging. He argues with Global Talent CEO Eli Elizondo, who demands he drop the investigation, and with band member Miguel who may or may not have had a relationship with TJ. If Bob allows him enough time, Mike will uncover whether TJ fled the pressure of fame or is the victim of a homicide.

HEAD GAMES is a unique fresh private investigative tale that grips readers from its opening line, introducing the audience to Bob the tumor room mate, and it never slows down until the final confrontations. Readers will wonder if Mike will have the time to complete the case and reconcile with Jennifer, even as Bob takes on a personality of his own. Mystery fans who want something different in their novels will enjoy Thomas B. Cavanagh, as he plays HEAD GAMES with his protagonist (and the audience).