In the sports world, the term “sophomore slump” is used to describe a player whose first year shows great promise, but his second season finds his athletic accomplishments declining substantially. The possibility of such a regression worried me when I read Dwyer Murphy’s second book, THE STOLEN COAST.

In 2022, Murphy introduced himself to readers with AN HONEST LIVING. The main character was an unnamed attorney working in New York City, and the plot was in keeping with Murphy’s own life. He practiced law for a prestigious law firm in New York City before joining CrimeReads, a mystery-themed website, as their editor-in-chief. His debut garnered many favorable reviews and made a few “Best Of” lists at the end of the year.

"Featuring strong characters who are portrayed wonderfully, this outstanding mystery is sure to be one of 2023’s best-received works of fiction."

At least one review of AN HONEST LIVING mentioned a plot that was similar to the movie Chinatown. I found it to be intriguing, enjoyable and comfortable to read. I noted in my review that it was like having the author sitting next to you and engaging in an entertaining conversation. I eagerly anticipated a follow-up but worried that it might not meet the high standard set by the first one. Happily my concern was unwarranted. THE STOLEN COAST is another compelling mystery that features lawyers but avoids courtroom settings or trials of any kind. The characters are straight out of a classic noir film, and the plot moves along briskly with several unanticipated twists and turns.

The novel takes place in Onset, Massachusetts, a small coastal community that has seen better days but is still a haven for summer visitors. Jack Betancourt may be a polished, Harvard-educated lawyer, but his work has little to do with the law. He is in a business that has existed for many years and was started by his father. A spy in his younger days, this man of mystery eventually established a business that helps people in trouble disappear and is now primarily run by his son. Murphy doesn’t specify exactly what Jack and his father do for their clients, which allows readers to speculate and fill in the blanks for themselves.

Except for his time at Harvard, Jack has spent his life in Onset. One day, his former romantic interest appears in the community. Elena is also an attorney and has returned to her home after a lengthy absence to spend the summer. She is accompanied by a senior partner in her firm who has in his possession a large quantity of raw diamonds that are worth millions. Elena has a plan to steal them and enlists Jack as a co-conspirator.

The book progresses with an elegant and quiet simplicity that almost lulls readers into wondering if and when the heist will occur. There is only one moment of violence and no epic car chases, gun battles on the streets or superhuman acts by anyone. In fact, there is only one small bar fight that is of little consequence.

THE STOLEN COAST is a relentless movement towards a denouement told in a clear and precise manner that will remind readers of writers like Raymond Chandler and a 1940s novel or film. Featuring strong characters who are portrayed wonderfully, this outstanding mystery is sure to be one of 2023’s best-received works of fiction. To end with another sports reference, Murphy is two for two and off to a great start in his literary career.