The ratings for THE COLORADO KID were all over the place. I have only started reading Stephen King again in the last few years. After a couple disappointments in the late 90s, I took a chance with some of his more recent offerings and loved them. So, I decided to take a chance with this one too.

The main characters are interesting. Dave Bowie is the 65-year-old managing editor of The Weekly Islander, a small newspaper servicing the island of Moose-Lookit. Vince Teague is the 90-year-old founder of the Islander. Stephanie McCann is a 22-year-old on summer internship at the Islander.

Over coffee, Dave and Vince tell Stephanie about an unsolved case that has bothered them for years. The story is about John Doe, also known as The Colorado Kid, eventually identified as James Cogan from Nederland, Colorado. He was found on Hammock Beach, Maine, in the early morning of April 24, 1980. The body was slumped against a trash can with no identification. The cause of death was asphyxiation due to a piece of steak lodged in his throat. On the body were a Russian coin, some pocket money, and a pack of cigarettes, which led to his identity. But why he was in Maine and how he ended up there remains a mystery.

The reason THE COLORADO KID worked for me was mainly the characters, especially David and Vince. They reminded me of a cross between Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old Muppet men) and Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. I didn't mind the mystery remaining unsolved. As I was reading, I suspected that in Stephen King fashion, these characters may pop up in another book at some point. But either way, it won't bother me.

*After reading The COLORADO KID, I came across this tidbit. King stated, "The review of The Colorado Kid in today’s issue of today's USA Today mentions that there was no Starbucks in Denver in 1980. Don’t assume that’s a mistake on my part. The constant readers of the Dark Tower series may realize that is not necessarily a continuity error, but a clue."

A Hardcase Crime novel presents an interesting conundrum. The answer to the mystery within is that not every mystery has a neatly wrapped-up answer. The story is well-written, with a smooth flow that keeps the reader engaged. The characters are likable, which adds to the overall charm of the narrative. However, when it comes to entertainment value, there is room for improvement. I found myself drawn into the suspense, eagerly seeking the resolution, despite the forewarning that there might not be one. And when the end finally did arrive, yes, I understood the concept. But still, I couldn't help but feel that I could have used a little more substance. Even though it was just one decisive moment that sealed the fate of our victim...or was it? There is an air of ambiguity that lingers, leaving the reader with a sense of dissatisfaction, longing for a more conclusive ending.

This was truly a great mystery that was unfolding before my eyes, presented with an absolutely awesome narrative voice.

The banter among the characters was simply delightful. It had a certain charm that definitely gave me a hint of the vibes I used to get from the intro of Dick Tracy.

Moreover, the random clues that were scattered around the case added an extra layer of fun. They kept me on the edge of my seat, constantly trying to piece things together.

However, overall, my biggest gripe is that I craved for there to be more substance to it. I wasn't prepared for it to come to an end so abruptly. It felt like just as I was getting really into it, it was over.

Nevertheless, despite this minor drawback, I would still rate it a solid 4 - 4.5 stars. It was an enjoyable read that had me engaged from start to finish.

3½ out of 5 stars

This is the book upon which the Syfy show Haven is based.

Although both the book and the show share the same setting, they have very little else in common.

I found the book to be just fine. However, I am more partial to the show due to its paranormal leanings.

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The book presents its own unique story and characters, but the show takes a different approach and delves deeper into the world of the paranormal.

The show's exploration of supernatural phenomena and its engaging characters make it a more captivating experience for me.

While the book has its merits, the show's emphasis on the paranormal gives it an edge and makes it a favorite among fans of the genre.

Overall, both the book and the show have their own charm, but for those who enjoy a good dose of the paranormal, the show Haven is definitely worth checking out.