Little, Brown and Company | October 2016 | 336 pgs
Source: Library
Isaiah Quintabe a.k.a. IQ, is an intelligent young black man who wouldn't mind helping his neighbourhood at East Long Beach in solving cases which the police wouldn't take for a small token of gifts, or whatever his "clients" could offer him. He lives with his older brother, Marcus, and their relationship is close considering they only have each other. But that bond is shattered after Marcus passed due to a hit-and-run and his death leave Isaiah devastated and determined in finding the driver. With this mindset, Isaiah drop out of high school and continues with his investigation gig despite he is good in his studies.
His sidekick, Dodson, is on another different league and it is through chance that bring them together. Their characteristic or moral standards may differ, but funnily they complement each other in a way that makes their so-called investigations work. It is also through Dodson that Isaiah is given his latest case -- a rap mogul who is being targeted and someone wants him assassinated. This won't be an easy case for both Isaiah and Dodson, especially if it involves the hit man's monstrous attack dog alongside with other suspects like a vengeful ex-wife and a few other notorious characters.
Isaiah is an interesting character and he's dependable and straightforward, the boy next door. He's proficient in observing people and things, and together with his logical reasoning he's the remake of the modern Sherlock Holmes, but of course Isaiah is very much on his own and though he's not perfect, he still easily catches a reader's attention through his demeanour and his perspective of seeing things differently. There are two timelines in this story -- 2005 and 2013 in which we'll learn about Isaiah's younger past and his encounter with Dodson while the later year will portray more of his investigations into the rap mogul case. Both timelines are equally satisfying to read and the language used fits the authentic mood amid the tough neighbourhood. This is Joe Ide's debut novel and I'll be sure to check out the rest of this series.
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I liked IQ and followed up with the next books in the series. I haven't read the most recent one yet, but I'll get to it eventually. :)
This does sound like a good one. I had it on my TBR list at one time, but then forgot about it. So I'm glad for the reminder. :) Not that I can go to the library and check it out any time soon!!!
This was one that hadn't really captured my attention at first but now I keep hearing good things about it. Glad you enjoyed it!
Jenclair - I'm glad to hear you're enjoying this series, too. :)
Lark - I hope the library will reopen soon. And most of all, things will get better soon. It's been crazy around the world. :(
Iliana - I hope you'll give this book a try one day. :)