Derrick of Death Book Reviews

---

Derrick of Death by Malvina Lerma is a murder mystery at its core. Charlie is a female oil rig manager who has just scored a job working for Triple Play, a company trying to get into the oil business. The job gets off to a good start until it is brought to a screeching halt when Charlie spots a body on site. It was determined that it was Karen's body. She was the wife of one of the senior members of Triple Play, Frank. It was known to everyone that Karen was not faithful. This was also not the first death the group had experienced. Prior to starting the drilling, a friend of theirs had died during a dinner under suspicious circumstances. Are the deaths connected? Who is the killer? Join Charlie as she pairs up with the landman, George, to try and find out.
 

The mystery aspect of this book was excellently done. Without giving away any spoilers, I will say that there were a few red herrings regarding the identity of the killer. I did not guess their true identity until it was revealed at the end. However, I did realize the little clues woven throughout the book that pointed to their identity. It was most expertly done.
 

Another aspect I thought was particularly well done was the introduction of the more technical aspects of drilling an oil well. Through the use of characters such as George, who knew nothing about the subject, Lerma was able to add details about drilling without overwhelming the reader. Charlie was often explaining these details to the other characters, so I was able to learn alongside them.
 

I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I thought the murder mystery was expertly done, I enjoyed the characters, and I can't think of anything I didn't like about the book. I only noticed a few minor errors, and I believe that this book was professionally edited.
 

Those who enjoy books with a strong female lead would enjoy this book. It may also interest murder mystery fans, along with those who may want a glimpse into the workings of an oil well. This book is the perfect length to read in an afternoon or two and engaging enough to make it hard to put down!

I love mysteries and murder mysteries are the BEST! This book intrigued me because it takes place around an oil rig - an unfamiliar industry. It is GREAT! The protagonist is a strong woman in a 'man's world' and is outstanding in her job and a great sense of humor. I learned a lot about drilling for oil and fascinated by this woman's choices and adventures. I want to know more about her. It is an easy read and can take you on an adventure in an afternoon. I highly recommend it and look forward to more oilfield mysteries as the author has promised.

My granddaughter gives this book

5 STARS!