The Empty Copper Sea

by John D. MacDonald
The Empty Copper Sea cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 7462
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9780812984088
  • Publisher: Random House Trade Paperbacks
  • Published: 2013-09-10
  • Reviews: 3

Travis McGee, a beloved figure in crime fiction, is approached by Van Harder, a proud seaman who needs help clearing his name. Harder's employer, Hubbard Lawless, fell overboard during a nighttime cruise, and Harder is suspected of negligence. Despite his claims of innocence, Harder's reputation is at stake, and McGee must prove that Lawless is actually alive to exonerate him. /n/n The case takes a complex turn as McGee delves into the circumstances surrounding Lawless's disappearance. The luxury cruiser's fateful ride ends with Harder disoriented and Lawless missing, leading to accusations of drunkenness and negligence. McGee uncovers a web of deceit and greed, as various parties seek to benefit from Lawless's fortune, even if it means eliminating anyone who stands in their way. The novel features a new introduction by Lee Child, highlighting MacDonald's mastery of crime fiction.

Reviews
Mostly Old Books and Rust · 2022-06-27
engaging 3.00

The story is thin but the character development and philosophical musings are engaging. The minimal action is balanced by a lot of talking and ruminating.

This review highlights that the plot of The Empty Copper Sea is quite thin, focusing more on a businessman who fakes his death. However, the strength of the book lies in its character development and the philosophical musings of the protagonist. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the introspective moments, even though the action is minimal. They found the dialogue and the internal reflections to be the most compelling parts of the story. The ending, set in the dunes, is particularly praised for its intensity and resolution.

Quick quotes

    Minimal action with lots of talking and ruminating.

    The thin story about a businessman who liquidated most of his assets, faked his death, and ...

    The professional's professional of suspense writers.

Brandywine Books · 1978-01-01
excellent 4.50

The book includes all the elements of a great McGee story, with a cracking final showdown. It's a standout in the series.

This review emphasizes that The Empty Copper Sea embodies all the best elements of a Travis McGee story. The reviewer particularly enjoys the final showdown in the dunes, which is described as cracking and intense. They wonder if the author ever considered leaving the character in this setting, indicating how memorable and impactful the scene is. The reviewer clearly appreciates the book's ability to deliver a satisfying and thrilling conclusion, making it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    All the elements of a great McGee story, including a cracking final showdown in the dunes.

    I wonder if John D. MacDonald was ever tempted to leave Trav in his ...

    This I my Number one.

Audible · 1978-01-01
fantastic 5.00

This is the favorite Travis McGee story for the reviewer, standing out among the many they have read or listened to.

The reviewer from Audible expresses that The Empty Copper Sea is their favorite Travis McGee story. They have read or listened to many of the books in the series, but this one stands out as their number one. This high praise indicates that the book has left a significant impression on the reviewer, making it a memorable and enjoyable read. The enthusiasm and personal connection to the story are evident in their recommendation.

Quick quotes

    Empty Copper Sea is my favorite John D MacDonald Travis McGee story.

    I haven't read or listened to all of them but of the many I have, this I my Number one.

    The professional's professional of suspense writers.

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