Book Review

The Debt Collector by Steven Max Russo

Published April 1, 2024 by Steven Max Russo Books

When I read the premise of The Debt Collector, I thought to myself, "this is going to be fun!" and I wasn't disappointed. Abigail Barnes is a debt collector with a unique set of skills and a vibrant personality. Trained in Krav Maga and equipped with an arsenal of "trinkets' including some rather mean-looking brass knuckles, Abigail is a force to be reckoned with. Petite, blonde and intelligent, she doesn't care what anyone thinks and can take down a mobster without chipping a nail. All in a day's work.

Abigail is passing through New Jersey, looking for some work, when she encounters Hector. Hector, who has just robbed a liquor store in his underwear with a shotgun, becomes her fast friend and connects her with some work through his cousin, Raffie. However, the job takes a bad turn, and Abby soon finds herself on the run, trying to solve a murder and clear her own name.

Abigail reminds me so much of my dog trainer, a Marine Corp. veteran. Like Abby, she is blonde, beautiful, always has a perfect manicure, knows how to fight, has a wicked sense of humor, and enjoys ending training sessions with a couple of beers. I once watched her break up a dog fight between a Mastiff and a Doberman without chipping a nail or a hair out of place, and with a smile on her face. The similarities are so striking that I feel like I actually know Abby.

I thoroughly enjoyed the pacing, the humor, and the twist at the end after I thought I had it all figured out. This is a quick, action-packed read with the potential to become a series. There is far too much fun to be had with Abigail Barnes for her story to end here. The book's blend of action, humor, and intriguing plot twists kept me engaged from start to finish. This was a delightful and thrilling read with a strong, relatable heroine and a fast-paced storyline.

Thank you to Steven Max Russo and Booksirens for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Rating: ★★★★