Bright Orange for the Shroud

by John D. MacDonald
Bright Orange for the Shroud cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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  • ID: 7475
  • Added: 2025-12-14
  • Updated: 2025-12-14
  • ISBN: 9780812983975
  • Publisher: Random House Trade Paperbacks
  • Published: 2013-04-09
  • Reviews: 3

Travis McGee, the iconic houseboat-dwelling detective, is looking forward to a relaxing summer away from danger. However, his plans are disrupted when an old friend, Arthur Wilkinson, seeks his help to recover his life savings stolen by his ex-wife. What starts as a straightforward job quickly escalates into a perilous mission as McGee faces a cunning and violent adversary in the Everglades. The stakes are raised when McGee's own life becomes endangered, turning a simple retrieval job into a fight for survival. The novel is a classic example of John D. MacDonald's masterful storytelling, featuring a complex protagonist and a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of the Florida wilderness.

Reviews
The Storygraph · 2025-12-14
compelling 4.50

This is the best written book in the series so far. This book goes to some very dark places.

The reviewer found this to be the best written book in the series, praising its depth and complexity. They noted that the story delves into some very dark places, making it a compelling read. The reviewer appreciated the character development and the intricate plot, which kept them engaged throughout. However, they also acknowledged that the dark themes might not be suitable for everyone.

Quick quotes

    This is the best written book in the series so far.

    This book goes to some very dark places.

    The story is compelling from beginning to end.

Cannonball Read · 2023-02-01
disappointing 2.00

The story isn't intriguing enough to outweigh the negatives. There's no whodunit here, no cleverness at all really.

The reviewer felt that the story lacked intrigue and cleverness, which made it less enjoyable. They pointed out that there was no real mystery or clever plot twists, which are typically expected in this genre. Despite some interesting elements, the reviewer found the overall experience disappointing and not up to the standards of other books in the series.

Quick quotes

    The story isn't intriguing enough to outweigh the negatives.

    There's no whodunit here, no cleverness at all really.

    The victim shows up, says, ...

Stevefah's WordPress Blog · Stevefah · 2011-05-12
recommended 4.00

Bright Orange For the Shroud is typical McGee, and as a series, I can't recommend them enough.

The reviewer praised the book as typical of the McGee series, highlighting its strengths and recommending it highly. They appreciated the character of Travis McGee and the engaging storytelling that keeps readers hooked. The reviewer also compared it favorably to other authors in the genre, noting that it stands out for its unique blend of action and philosophy.

Quick quotes

    Bright Orange For the Shroud is typical McGee, and as a series, I can't recommend them enough.

    If you like Robert B. Parker's Spenser series, you'll love this.

    Travis McGee is a character you can't help but root for.

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