Jump    by Tim Maleeny Order:  USA  Can Poisoned Pen, 2009 (2009) Hardcover, CD     Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Tim Maleeny's Jump is a standalone mystery featuring ex-cop Sam McGowan, retired from the San Francisco police force. Widowed and unable to come to grips with the loss of his wife, he is at sixes and sevens about where his life is going. He shares a terrific view of San Francisco Bay with an apartment house full of unusual characters. Brothers Larry and Jerome are enough for a book to themselves, but Maleeny manages to keep them in their place - making and selling sandwiches to businessmen – along with a controlled substance nestled in with the lunch meat and cheese. Ed, the building's manager, has a brief role in this tightly written caper – he takes a long walk off a short balcony. Gail is an older woman with a penchant for baking cookies. A law student and a med student have an unusual and lucrative way of working their way through college. Walter, slowly eating himself to death makes a brief appearance. And a love interest? You betcha. Then there's Zorro, with his head honcho Julio, who managed to corner the marijuana market and objects to anyone homing in on his territory. And we mustn't forget San Francisco police detective Danny Rodriguez who goes along with Sam's scheme to make things right against his better judgment. People get shot, cars blow up. There's a malfunctioning toaster. Jump is a suspenseful book that keeps the reader guessing. Fun reading, and great for the beach. I recommend it. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews