“There’s Always a Few Killers Around” by Justin A. McWhirter

There’s Always a Few Killers Around

Justin A. McWhirter
Independently Published (2026)
ISBN: 979-8185506127
Reviewed by Dawn Colclasure for Reader Views (09/2026)

Thorne and Dynamite used to be boxers, so it would seem that now working as private investigators would be a good career change. Except Thorne has to deal with a cop at the Portland Police Bureau named Dickerson whose favorite thing to do is give him a hard time. Still, the two rely on each other with their line of work, though Thorne would prefer to not have to deal with Dickerson at all. Meanwhile, he and Dynamite are hired by one man to find a red truck that the PPB want to find first. But then things get weird – as well as a little dangerous.

Twice a strange, unknown shooter tries to take down Thorne, and the two private detectives end up going in circles trying to solve one case while figuring out another. They end up allowing their … associate, Valeria, to join them. (Do not call her a secretary!) Valeria ends up being a valuable part of the team, with a sharp mind and quick eye. The team, now composed of three people, is trying to hunt down the dealers of lethal narcotics. They’re also attempting to figure out the identity of the killer stalking Thorne and his clients before one or more of them is the next to be hunted down.

This story starts out really interesting and it takes off from there. With many surprises, twists, and turns, as well as danger lurking around every corner, this well-written story had this reviewer hooked. I found it hard to stop reading this book once I got started because the plot held my interest, and every time I thought I had it all figured out, something else happens and I’m back to piecing together the puzzle.

The characters Thorne, Dynamite, and Valeria are very likable. They all have a great sense of humor and I thought it was hilarious how Valeria reacted any time someone called her a secretary.

Valeria can be just as deadly as the two former boxers. Thanks to Dynamite’s instruction, she can throw a nasty right hook, and anyone she has taken down will cower away from her in fear. The worst drug dealer on the streets doesn’t stand a chance against her. She is smart, funny, brave, and trustworthy. Out of the three, Valeria was my favorite character.

I was also impressed with how sharp Thorne was. His mind continues to work on each case like it’s a puzzle, noticing things and catching on to things. Even when someone doesn’t realize it, Thorne is one step ahead of them and doesn’t miss anything.

Dynamite is also a character who really stood out in this story. A Black man with a history in Portland, he’s picked up on a few things along the way, and he’s sympathetic (though not softened) by the plight of neighborhoods. Consisting mainly of BIPOC folks struggling to make ends meet they are facing the cruel designs of a rich entrepreneur trying to tear their homes down in order to build a new stadium or country club. Like Thorne, Dynamite is smart, tough and gutsy.

This story is not just full of mystery and suspense, there’s also humor. The occasional funny and sarcastic banter between the characters was a nice break from the edgy subjects covered in this story.

There’s Always a Few Killers Around is a gripping story that starts with a bang and keeps things interesting with many twists and turns. This is an enjoyable and captivating novel that will hold readers in suspense until the very end.