The Turquoise Lament

by John D. MacDonald
The Turquoise Lament cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 7460
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9780449142004
  • Publisher: Fawcett
  • Published: 1982-03-12
  • Reviews: 3

In 'The Turquoise Lament,' Travis McGee, a beloved and unconventional detective, is approached by Linda 'Pidge' Lewellen, who once idolized him. She suspects her husband, Howie, is trying to kill her. McGee initially gives her the all-clear, but his instincts soon lead him to question his decision. As Pidge and Howie sail away to reconcile, McGee grapples with his doubts, racing against time to ensure Pidge's safety./n/nThe novel showcases McGee's distinctive character and his knack for solving complex cases. It's a gripping tale that blends suspense, mystery, and a touch of the unusual, making it a standout in the detective fiction genre.

Reviews
CrimeReads · Anonymous · 2022-05-06
engaging 4.50

The opening chapter is strong and the first half of the novel is particularly enjoyable. The setting in the southwest adds a unique flavor.

This reviewer loves the first half of the novel, particularly the opening chapter which they describe as incredibly strong with a vicious surprise. The setting in the southwest is highlighted as adding a unique and engaging flavor to the story. They appreciate the strong start and the engaging narrative that keeps the reader hooked. The reviewer also notes the unique setting and the compelling start, making it a standout in the series. They highlight the engaging nature of the plot and the character's dynamic presence, which together create a satisfying and enjoyable mystery.

Quick quotes

    I love the first half of this novel.

    The opening chapter is incredibly strong, with a vicious surprise.

    It's set in the southwest and a lot of the atmosphere and the action is really well done.

Mostly Old Books and Rust · Anonymous · 2021-11-08
entertaining 4.50

The mystery is well-paced and keeps the story engaging. Travis McGee is in top form, delivering both action and wit.

This reviewer found the mystery to be expertly teased out, keeping the story moving and entertaining throughout. Travis McGee is portrayed as being in top form, busting chops and taking names, which adds a lot of charm and excitement to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the balance of action and wit that McGee brings to the story, making it a compelling read. They highlight the engaging nature of the plot and the character's dynamic presence, which together create a satisfying and enjoyable mystery.

Quick quotes

    The teasing out of the mystery keeps the story moving and entertaining.

    McGee is back in top form busting chops and taking names.

    The only thing that could have made it better is if it were longer.

Nickoh · Anonymous · 2020-06-28
suspenseful 4.00

The book is well-written and suspenseful, with a humorous touch. The plot is complex but engaging.

This reviewer describes the book as gorgeously written and suspenseful, with a good dose of humor. They note that the plot is a bit hard to summarize in a single line, which speaks to its complexity. The story begins with Travis McGee being summoned by a damsel in distress, setting the stage for an intriguing and multi-layered mystery. The reviewer appreciates the blend of suspense and humor, making the book both thrilling and enjoyable. They highlight the engaging nature of the plot and the character's dynamic presence, which together create a satisfying and enjoyable mystery.

Quick quotes

    This one was pretty good although hard to summarise the plot in a single line.

    McGee speaks to a guy who's married one of McGee's friends, Pidge.

    The Turquoise Lament is gorgeously written, suspenseful as hell and terrifically funny.

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