Bruns paints Murtz, as many other reviewers have suggested, as a Phil Spector type and even attributes to Murtz the creation of the "wall of sound" production technique that Spector was known for. Spector worked with John Lennon and Ike and Tina Turner, but his legacy was in writing or co-writing a string of hits that have become classics (e.g. "Every Breath I Take," "You've Lost that Lovin' Feeling," and "Spanish Harlem").

Spector was also known for his bullying behavior and was linked to a suspicious death, much like Bruns' Murtz character. But Murtz is a lot slimier, displaying much more bizarre behavior, and openly admitting to stealing most of the material that bears his name. Mick Sever and his editor suspect that Murtz may be responsible for the deaths and disappearances of three or four young women.

Bruns presents a realistic portrayal of music journalist Mick Sever who is also taking on an investigative reporter role. The only thing I found missing was mention of Sever carrying a pocket recorder for the two interviews he did. That's a vital tool for any journalist.

The author also gives insight into Murtz's brain, as well as those of a few other characters, creating different story streams from their points of view. Bruns cleverly weaves these in, along with multiple attempts on Sever's life and a couple of mystery women.

I really liked this novel!  Because I'm a music journalist as well, I could relate to Sever, though I wish I had his magazine's expense account. Bruns has crafted a mystery that may be picked up to be savored on a hot summer day but will have readers turning pages well into the wee hours, trying to find out what happens next. I wonder what kind of a sticky situation Mick Sever will get into next.