Flawless Integration of History and Fiction
Combining the structural intrigue of detective fiction with the global scope of espionage thrillers, Twelve Palominos by Joe Kilgore delivers a polished noir narrative marked by suspense, mysterious heists, and the lingering shadow of an ancient curse.
Brig Ellis, a disciplined private investigator with a military background, is hired under false pretenses by billionaire oil tycoon C. Tyler McCullum. What begins as a routine surveillance case quickly spirals into a far more dangerous mission: recovering the final piece in a set of twelve miniature alabaster palomino horses, once owned by China’s last emperor. Rumored to be cursed, these figurines have left a trail of death and destruction around the world. With eleven already in McCullum’s possession, Ellis is assigned to find the twelfth while keeping the buyer’s identity hidden. Simultaneously, McCullum’s estranged daughter, Alex, approaches Ellis to locate her missing husband, whom she suspects may have been harmed by her father. As Ellis digs deeper, he becomes ensnared in a web of deceit, power, and secrets rooted in a legacy darker than he imagined.
Joe Kilgore’s writing is crisp, elegant, and atmospheric. His vivid yet controlled descriptions, tight pacing, and layered characters bring the story to life. Brig Ellis stands out as a classic protagonist—gritty yet introspective, tough but morally grounded. Kilgore’s dialogue is sharp, and he skillfully balances suspense with subtle wit and emotional depth. The historical and cultural threads add richness and authenticity to the narrative.
Twelve Palominos is an intelligent, gripping read for fans of detective fiction, historical thrillers, and mysteries with a psychological edge. Kilgore respects the reader’s intellect while delivering a story filled with intrigue and danger. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a mystery that’s as smart as it is thrilling. 5 Stars!
