Double Tap
Published: 7.26.05
Genre: Suspense
ISBN: 978-0399150920
Buy Now: Amazon.com, BN.com, VillageBooks.com
Attorney Paul Madriani defends a highly decorated soldier on trial for murder and unwittingly steps into a maze of secrets and lies that the United States government - and possibly even his client - would rather leave hidden and undisturbed.
In his new outing, Madriani is faced with daunting ballistics evidence, a so-called "double tap" - two bullet wounds tightly grouped to the victim's head, shots that could only have been made by a crack marksman. Madriani's client, Emiliano Ruiz, is an enigma, a career soldier who refuses to talk about his past though clearly he is a battle-tested pro. Ruiz is accused of killing a beautiful businesswoman and guru of a high tech software empire catering to the military.
One key to the case that's especially damning for Madriani's client: the murder weapon is one used only in special operations where the "double tap" has become the signature of the most skilled assassins.
Ruiz is sitting on a story he says he's not at liberty to tell - a seven-year-gap on his military resume for which Madriani can find no details. And more troubling, Madriani discovers that the victim and her company were involved in a controversial government computer program designed to combat terrorists. Madriani finds himself in a deadly legal quagmire - with a client who refuses to help and prosecutors who stonewall every question about the victim's shadowy business and his client's past. Finding justice and the unvarnished truth has never been so elusive - or so dangerous.
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Customer Comments |
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What a beautifully crafted novel, such a delight to read. I felt immersed in the plot and the characters from the first few pages. I especially love the humanity, intelligence and humility (as much as a trial lawyer can allow himself) of Paul Mandriani. I found myself reading excerpts to my husband - and him actually listening! A truly wonderful character I would love to see on the big screen. (but have no fear I would still faithfully read any future novels) WONDERFUL!
Corinna
Entertaining! Enlightening! Educational!
DOUBLE TAP was all that and more! What an absolutely "stellar" read! When there are so many mediocre books out there, it so refreshing to find one that stands so far out from the rest of the crowd. Thank God for good writers like Steve Martini!! Keep them coming!
Lisa
I just finished "Double Tap" and I loved it! It's the first book of yours for me, and I was completely addicted from the beginning. My dad introduced me to your books, and I cannot wait to start another. Thank you so much!
Vicki
I never read except while on vacation or, in this instance, nursing a sore back. I couldn't sleep last nite because the defense started it's opening arguments and I tossed and turned waiting to read in the morning. This is a first and I want to thank you for keeping my interest peeked throughout the entire book. I feel like I just took a college course and you could quiz me on every word in the book. Thank you for my best read in 60 years.
Michael
Just loved "Double Tap". Best court room drama I've read in a long time.
Gerald
"Double Tap" - Way to go on your latest subject matter! Talk about timely. Way to go! (Great book, as always.)
Kathleen
Great book. The best of 05 and I have read all of them of this genre.
Jerry
I have just finished reading Double Tap & it is by far the best book you have written so far! I would place it in my "top 5" for the year, too. I am just a "regular" person, not a reviewer, but I read a lot of books. Keep up the excellent work.
Martha
"Double Tap" was definitely worth waiting for! Keep up the great reads! Thanks...
Eve
Just finished the book. First time I have read one of your books. Thought it was terrific. Plan on reading more of them.
Jack
I've read several of your books and I just finished Double Tap. Just wanted to thank you for several hours of entertainment. Good story!
Russ
I saw your book on my library new release wall and thoroughly enjoyed "Double Tap". I plan to catch up and read the rest of your novels.
John
Just finished "Double Tap," and I wanted to tell Steve Martini how much I enjoy his writing. The suspense was great, but I enjoyed the humor even more. Laughing out laugh while reading a murder/suspense novel was, well, a novel experience for me. The writing was so fresh, the turn of phrase so witty. Thanks for the most enjoyable read I have had in a long time.
Kelly
Just completing your Double Tap novel and wanted to tell you how much that I have enjoyed it. Your background as a Journalist and Attorney provides you with the wealth of experience required to carry off such a complex, believable plot in this your latest offering. Thanks for the experience.
Johnny
Just loved Double Tap! Your expressions are terrific! I've read every one of your books and the ending is always a disappointment because it's over; it's the journey that drives the pleasure. Thank you!
Liz
I've been waiting for this book for a long time. It was well worth the wait. I think it's the best book you've written. Thank you.
Janice
I just completed reading your latest novel, "Double Tap". I thoroghly enjoyed it. I'm an avid reader but I must admit this is the first novel I've read written by you. That will soon change. I like your lead protagonist, the attorney. He is smart, funny, compassionate, complicated and interseting, (all important items in a lead character.) I am now going to go back to your earlier novels since I enjoyed "Double Tap" so much. I just wanted you to hear a kind word from a new fan. Thanks
Scott
Just finished Double Tap and as usual - loved it. I feel like Paul Madriani is an old friend. Please write faster!
Karen
Finished Double Tap last night at 2:00! While I liked the whole book, I was very impressed with your moving tribute to your Uncle Evo and his trials and how they impacted your life. What a wonderful way to pay homage, not just to him, but to recognize the many, many others who have experienced the same difficulties when returning from combat. Very well done. Thanks for not just an excellent read, but a deeply personal one as well.
Katie
I've just finished "Double Tap". It was the best legal thriller I've read in awhile. So many truisms concerning the government and the price society pays for its sins. Having worked with veterans of Korea and WW11 and having heard their stories and seen their physical and emotional scars I, as does Mr. Martini have a respect for those who have "experienced what most of us have not: the indescribable chaos and horror of battle, and the nightmare memories, images and visions that sears the soul." Bravo Mr. Martini - I always watch for your novels and am a big fan.
Diane
I finally finished Double Tap and as usual Mr. Martini out did himself. The endings are always a twist I never expect. I love Paul's partner Harry, he's such a wise cracker. Thanks for another great read, if work didn't always get in the way, I could have finished earlier.
Your fan
Just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed the new book Double Tap. I have read every book you have written and my only complaint is the new ones don't come soon enough. Thanks so much for your hard work and offering so much enjoyment to your readers.
Michael
Just finished Double Tap. I read heavily in the legal thriller genre and this one stands out in a league of its own. Martini nails every point. But beyond that, it has a depth of insight that is a rare and welcome addition to all the usual elements of this space. The protagonist's reflections on life and death left me pondering for days after completing the book. Please express my appreciation and admiration to Mr. Martini for this book.
Ron
Steve, a friend introduced me to your wonderful books 4 years ago. I have read them all and revelled in the wonderful use of words and story line. I have been waiting EONS for Double Tap and finally got it 2 days ago and finished today. Could not put it down. Paul and Harry are so perfect together. This is another "Martini Masterpiece." I am your most ardent fan but I have to wait too long for your books...so stressful. Double Tap took forever but, my, was it ever worth the wait. . . . Thanks for all the pleasure your writing gives me.
Lynn
Just finished Double Tap; my first book of yours. I would read it on my commute to Manhattan from Long Island. Thoroughly enjoyed it; could hardly put it down. Next up: The Arraignment. Thanks for the good read!
Ira
Just finished "Double Tap." Another one that I could not put down. I look forward to your books, and am always delighted to see a new one on the shelf. Thank you for the hours of pleasure. Cannot wait for the next one!
Dianne
Just finished reading Double Tap and loved, loved, loved it...
Kathleen
I've just finished Double Tap and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you for a great reading experience.
Gordon
I have just finished reading "Double Tap" and I believe it is one of your best works. As a retired military officer and a businessman confronted with both the advantages and the frustrations of living with data processing, I found the subject matter extremely interesting and timely. Congratulations and best wishes.
Thomas
DOUBLE TAP in double time! Wonderful book. Read and re-read it, back-to-back; first for enjoyment, then to watch Steve hone his craft. Reminded me of how Allie Reynolds [NY Yankee pitcher in the '50's] used to set up the hitters: crowd 'em and then pitch away, then in again. Steve does the same for his readers.
Ed
I have read the entire series. Double Tap is captivating. It is on my list of great books to read again. Thanks for the enjoyment.
Gerard
I truly loved Double tap. I enjoy your characters Paul and harry. Please write lots more.
Leonie
Just finished reading Double Tap. Having read all of Martini's books, I enjoyed this one very much. The endurance that Mr. Martini must of had to write this book stands out for me. I was most touched by the involvement of his uncle Evo. I hope that Mr. Martini continues to write and allow readers to enjoy his genre although as he indicated in the epilogue how painful at times it was to complete it.
Steve
I just finished Double Tap - my gosh, I loved it!! Just getting back in my "reading groove" after having been a workaholic for 15 years. I was scouring the Kroger bookshelves and the title caught my attention. I'm so glad I judged a book by its cover! I also appreciate your acknowledgments -especially moving were your credits to your family and God. Thank you for a masterpiece. Have a great week!
Kelly
I just finished double tap... and I thought it the best book so far... what a great read... thank you.
Terry
Just finished Double Tap and like all of Mr. Martini's books, it was superb. I have always loved Harry, but in this book he went above and beyond. Keep up the good work Mr. Martini... and Harry!
Janet
Just finished reading "Double Tap". It was great--enjoyed it more than any novel I've read in years. Character development and the many aspects of the story were both interesting and compelling. I'm looking forward to your next work. Thanks!
Joe
I just finished the prologue of "Double Tap". I'm hooked, as usual!
Wayne
Wow! You did it again. I just finished reading Double Tap this evening and it was absolutely the best book I have read since The Arraignment. I am an avid reader and devour books. I preordered Double Tap as soon as Amazon.com made it available. It was a long wait. In a couple years when your next book is published, I know that it will have been worth waiting for too. Thank you for writing a great novel. You have a special God-given talent few people have. Don't stop writing - us book junkies need you and your books.
Judith
DOUBLE TAP is #6 on the NY TIMES Bestseller List. Congratulations! I can't put it down myself. Great book!!! (Along with all your others, that is.....)
Maria
Just finished Double Tap. I couldn't put it down! My only complaint is I have to wait for your next one. Hope you're already writing it.
Sandee
I just finished reading Double Tap. I wanted to write and tell you that it was definitely worth the wait. Although I do hope we won't have to wait as long for another installment of your work. Reading is a therapy for me. It takes me away from everyday problems and troubles and immerses me in somebody elses life. I especially enjoy reading books that are written as a series. It is like welcoming back an old friend when you pick up the next book in the series. Thank you for all your hard work to make my hours of enjoyment possible.
Alyce
Just finished "Double Tap". It was just great & I enjoyed every page.A good ending, so unexpected. Hope you are working on another one. I have read all your books and keep checking online to see if you have another!!!
Etel
Last year I found out about Steve Martini's works by suggestion of a librarian while I was looking for an audio book for a seven hour drive. From that moment on I have not been able to put his books down. I just finished Double Tap and was floored by the ending. The only complaint that I have is now I have to wait for the next one to come out. Thank you for a delightful read.
Brian
DOUBLE TAP was worth the wait. Madriani's "asides" add a light respite from the courtroom action.
Zita
I finished Double Tap in three day with working full time, school, household etc. It made me sleepless but it was worth the year wait. Congratulations on such a great novel.... Thanks for the sensational work and keep the books coming.
Margo
In veteran Martini's exciting eighth legal thriller starring Paul Madriani (after 2003's The Arraignment), the San Diego defense attorney takes on yet another especially difficult case. When Madelyn Chapman, the owner of a computer software company that sells a controversial security program to the U.S. government, is found shot twice in the head in her La Jolla home, the closeness of the bullet wounds indicates a "double tap," a feat typical of a highly skilled military marksman. Army Sgt. Emiliano Ruiz, a 20-year vet who served in Panama and the first Gulf War and who freelanced as a security guard (and occasional sex partner) for Chapman, is arrested for the killing. After the flashy defense lawyer originally in charge of the case quits, apparently under pressure, the more compassionate and less publicity-minded Madriani and his partner take it on. Ruiz turns out to have a seven-year gap in his résumé: was he in fact doing dirty work for Special Ops? And can Madriani find out his secrets in time to keep the sympathetic soldier from life in prison? The compelling plot builds to a conclusion that should surprise even longtime fans. BOMC main selection; Doubleday, Literary Guild and Mystery Guild alternates. (July 26)
Publisher's Weekly
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