The Fifth Floor

by: Michael Harvey

Published by: Vintage Crime/Black Lizard

Reviewed by Patricia E. Reid

There is an old saying that you can’t fight city hall but Michael Kelly ignores the saying and takes his investigation right to the fifth floor where the mayor’s office is located. Michael Kelly is an ex-police officer now working as a private investigator.

Janet Woods is an old friend, and when she comes to Michael for help for herself and her daughter, Taylor, Michael doesn’t hesitate. Her husband is abusive and she fears for her safety and the safety of her daughter. Janet is married to Johnny Woods who works for John J. Woods, the Mayor of Chicago.

Michael follows Johnny and sees him go into a house and make a fast exit. Michael decides to check inside and there finds a murder victim. As Michael tries to find information about the victim, he begins to learn the real history behind the famous Chicago fire of 1871.

With the help of Fred Jacobs, a reporter who knows Chicago inside and out, Michael learns more about the fire and the real reasons rumored to be behind the fire. There is a direct link to the mayor’s office, but that doesn’t stop Michael. Soon Michael finds himself framed for murder. Michael pulls out all stops to find the truth no matter whose toes he has to step on to get there.

The Fifth Floor is an exciting follow-up to The Chicago Way that introduced Private Detective Michael Kelly. Some of the same characters appear in The Fifth Floor that were in The Chicago Way, and it was nice to read about them again. It is not necessary to read The Chicago Way to enjoy The Fifth Floor.

Armchair Interviews says: A most interesting 5-star read.

Author’s Web site: http://www.MichaelHarveyBooks.com