The Hit Man Cometh

While investigating the attempted assassination of a television evangelist running for office, Detective Frank Branko learns that the would-be killer is a psychotic with links to a powerful military figure

The likable hero of a new series from the author of Bloody Murdock and Murdock for Hire, Branko's kick-off adventure, a more original and substantial story than its title suggests, begins with the shooting of a popular evangelist running a distant second in a pending Senate primary race. The candidate is only slightly injured, but Branko's partner is killed. Was the hit man really intent on murder or merely publicity? Tracking that answer leads Branko into the arms of a recently widowed socialite with a penchant for athletic sex and a connection to a fanatic mercenary who directs an international gun-running operation from a secluded, high-tech fortress in the Santa Ana Mountains. Two more related shoot-outs, one at a popular nightclub and another at the office tower high above the Reverend's Promontory Chapel, occur before the explosive grand finale at the mercenary's well-stocked compound the day before the primary. Along with plenty of action and a satisfying resolution, Ray offers an engaging cast of good guys and bad, from the preacher's fervent wife to a chic lesbian gun-for-hire to the feisty feminist reporter with whom Branko will likely spend more time in future episodes. A lively debut.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Ray ( Murdock for Hire ) begins a new series with fortyish, attractive Newport Beach homicide cop Frank Branko. The absorbing, complex plot puts Branko on the trail of Benny Rubidoux, a hit man who causes a shooting fiasco during an appearance of local evangelist Reverend Williams, conservative candidate for Congress. Williams is wounded, but Branko's partner dies. Branko's exhaustive investigation produces some interesting characters, including professional soldier Roberto DeVane, the wealthy manipulative creep behind the scenes who wants to own a congressman. Consistent prose, graphic sex, and plenty of violence add to the entertainment. REK
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.