Any book that starts out with an explosion has got to grab your attention. Bahama Burnout, Don Bruns' fifth Caribbean mystery involving music journalist Mick Sever, does just that. This novel takes place in Nassau in the Bahamas and centers around the Highland Recording Studio, the site of the aforementioned explosion. Two years later, the studio is up and running and Sever is there to get a feel for the studio's comeback and that of Johnny Run, a rock band trying to wring out a much needed hit. Run by old friend Jonah Britt, the studio seems to be plagued with ghosts and unexplained vandalism, as well as the mystery of a body that was found in the charred ruins after the fire. When Sever is brought in by police for questioning in the murder of Johnny Run's new manager, Sever decides to use all of his investigative skills to get at the truth.

Once again, Don Bruns brings readers a winner! Bahama Burnout serves up a most delicious combination of murder and music with the spicy intrigue of island police procedures. As a music journalist myself, I always appreciate the detailed looks backstage that Sever is privy to. These are realistic portrayals that don't glamorize the industry, but often show its more seamy side. And, I always enjoy Sever's forays into the islands since they give me a vicarious taste of a Caribbean press trip. Highly recommended.