Thank you Crooked Lane anions for my gifted copy and the chance to review it honestly.

Winston Greene wakes up one morning to find his granddaughter at his bedside— shaken up, holding onto a thumb drive. Her mother, Winston’s troubled daughter, has been kidnapped by a gang, demanding all of his money.

Hollywood Hustle is tense and fast paced, leaving me wanting more. I absolutely loved the action in this story and would love to see it on the big screen! I was pleasantly surprised by the twists and it had my emotions all over the place… in a good way. This is a debut for Jon Lindstrom and I’m happy to report it was a hit for me! I can’t wait to see what he’ll come out with next. Hollywood Hustle is out 2/6/24!

Happy reading!

** I will be partnering with Crooked Lane Books to host a giveaway for a copy of Hollywood Hustle starting tomorrow on my Instagram page if you want to check it out! @bbecca_marie **10 s Lianne (Mama Snark Reading)565 48

A few codicils before I begin.
I have loved Jon Lindstrom for years. He is on my favorite soap: General Hospital. ( By the way, I run a GH parody page: General Hospital Snark). I also discovered many years ago this guy can read a novel! One of my favorite voices to listen to.

That being said, in all reality, I didn't have high expectations for this novel.
I was VERY pleasantly surprised.
This is a fun, quick read about a really badly planned Hollywood heist.
Also, Jon knows LA. His descriptions are excellent, accurate, and made this LA girl very happy.

Congratulations, Jon. An excellent debut!2024-books-read debut mystery10 s1 comment CYIReadBooks (Claire)700 113

Hollywood Hustle is author/actor Jon Lindstrom's debut novel. Since debut novels can be a hit or miss, I was hesitant but still intrigued by the premise of the novel. Hoping for a hit, I was a little dismayed that the novel didn't meet my expectations.

The characters in the novel just didn't get my attention. Most of them appeared to be drug addled, and lacking any personality. I simply could not connect with any of the characters, especially the main character, Winston. For the most part, all of the characters were pretty generic, monotone and boring.

The story itself didn't fare any better than the characters. The only excitement was the kidnapping of Winston's drug addict daughter. And even that wasn't much to shout out about. Most of the narrative seemed window dressing with no real substance. I kept waiting for the turning point, but nothing happened except drug deals. Eventually, I lost focus and gave up at 34% A one star DNF for me.

I was invited to read a DRC from Oceanview Publishing through NetGalley. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.netgalley10 s4 comments Erin Clemence1,191 360

Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.

Expected publication date: Feb. 6, 2024

Jon Lindstrom has starred on General Hospital and True Detective. Using his Hollywood knowledge, he journeys into the literary world with his debut novel, “Hollywood Hustle” and to say I was impressed is an understatement!

Winston Greene is on the fast track to being a Hollywood has-been, as he ages and his career starts to steadily decline. One morning he wakes up to his young granddaughter, Amy, staring up at him in his bed, apparently abandoned by her mother, Winston’s daughter, Claire. But the truth slowly comes out, Claire has been kidnapped and is being held for ransom, and the kidnappers expect Winston to pay up. The only problem is that Winston is broke and has no way to give the kidnappers what they want. With the help of a few friends, Winston actively seeks his daughter while trying to protect his young granddaughter, pursuing the kidnappers through the cityscape of Los Angeles.

“Hustle” is a fast-paced thrill ride, and definitely fits right in in the celebrity-inundated landscape of Los Angeles. Right from the first page, when Winston wakes up to a wide-eyed granddaughter in his bed, the action pulls you in and doesn’t let up.

Winston recruits a stuntman and a former police officer, now a private investigator, in his search for his daughter, who suffers with addiction. Winston is the protagonist and prime narrator but the supporting characters are just as entertaining! I loved the camaraderie and loyalty that the men had with each other, but they still managed to be likable and human, regardless of their completely unrelatable Hollywood lifestyle.

“Hustle” reads a Hollywood script and it ends the same way. Characters are shot and stabbed, but only the villains succumb to their injuries, leading to a “Happily Ever After” which, although a bit of a stretch, was still enjoyable. This is a unique debut by an unexpected author, and I would support future works by Lindstrom! first-reads kindle7 s T Olsen1,096 27

Descriptionitis. I know it isn't a real word, but this author certainly suffers from it, as everything and everyone need at least two pages of description, and it's very tedious. When something finally starts happening, it's mostly based on stupidity and I started wondering if this was meant as a satire. But it isn't funny either.5 s Stacey494 34

I just finished Hollywood Hustle by Jon Lindstrom and here are my musings.

Winston Greene is a has-been. A B rate movie star who once had it all but now…. He is almost a nobody. Or at least he thought he was but when he wakes one morning to find his 6 year old granddaughter standing by his bed, brought to him by a man she does not know, holding a thumb drive. His daughter has been kidnapped and they want Win to pay with every single penny he has…. An amount any regular Joe might have in the bank. Not a movie star. His wealth is gone.

No police they say and the only person he can go to is a disgraced cop who has been his friend for years. He knows this group has killed before. He knows getting his daughter back will be hard but he will do anything he can to see her home safely.

I was pleasantly surprised by this debut. It’s better than most I have read. It was pretty well written and it held my attention. It was a bit monotone. The pace never got faster or slower. It just kind of plodded on. I found the character development was done really well. I d Win, he was a solid character. I also d Grover and Teddy. I think the author didn’t quite find the perfect balance between plot and character development but I really think the bones were there.

I d the action and the conclusion was decent. I think it needed a bit of excitement but all in all, I enjoyed it.

3.75 stars

Thank you to @netgalley and @crookedlanebooks for my gifted copy

#hollywoodhustle #jonlindstrom #debutbook #crookedlanebooks #thriller #bookreview #netgalley #kindle #ebook #arcreader #arcreview #bookalorian3 s Christine1,485 32

I have been a fan of Jon Lindstom for many years for his work as an actor, and was intrigued when I saw he had written a novel. There is a lot going on in this action-packed debut novel. The adult daughter of an aging movie star is kidnapped and threats to his young granddaughter are also made. Win has to turn to his trusted friends, which include a stuntman and his amazing wife, as well as a former cop turned PI, to keep his granddaughter safe.

The story is told through multiple points-of-view, with many details given about each character's backstory. Sometimes the details, especially of the villains, aren't needed and get in the way of the flow of the story. I much preferred the chapters narrated by Win or one of his friends. Although the book has some pacing issues, things become very suspenseful as the deadline for the ransom draws nearer. You may have to suspend disbelief at a few things that happen toward the end, but I found the book entertaining and d the hopeful resolution to the story.

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.2 s Terri86 2

I have followed Jon Lindstrom’s acting career for years, so I was intrigued to see a novel authored by him. After all, I loved Dolly Patron’s first foray into writing. But then, she had James Patterson to help her. Perhaps she should give Patterson’s contact info to Lindstrom because this was a painful book to read. I didn’t the one dimensional characters, the writing style, or lack thereof, or even the plot line. Too much description and a predictable plot combined to make for hours of my life I will never be able to get back. Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. I will not hold this one against you.2 s Sheri90 9

“Hollywood Hustle” by Jon Lindstrom is the type of book that always pulls me in. A story about an actor past his prime, kidnapping, addiction and scandal. Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get involved in the story and I felt no connection with the characters. Despite this review I think many other fans of this author will enjoy reading it.

Thank you NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and the Author for the ARC of this book in exchange for my review.2 s Kristy Johnston956 35

Note: Audiobook Review

I’ve watched Jon Lindstrom on General Hospital for years so when I saw that he had written a novel, I immediately put it on my TBR. Since I’m a recent audiobook convert, I had no idea that he had narrated a few of my favorite Blake Crouch books. When I saw those on his credits, I had to listen to this one since I’m familiar with his GH character’s soothing psychiatrist voice (well also serial killer but…). He can act, he can narrate and he can write! The story read with the fast-moving action of a Hollywood thriller.

I especially enjoyed the characterizations in this book. The story follows Win, now an older actor in Hollywood with complicated family issues. When his granddaughter is dropped off at his home by a stranger claiming to have kidnapped his daughter, the girl’s mother, with an ominous message, Win jumps into action calling on Hollywood connections for advice and assistance. Lindstrom shines in the incorporation of insider knowledge lending an authentic but gritty quality to the story.

While many of the relationships as well as people that Win has connected with during his time in the movies are shallow and characterized by greed, several people have genuine connections and warm friendships that he can call on in his hour of need. One of those relationships that I enjoyed in the book was with Teddy, a former New Orleans police officer that served as a police consultant on a movie he made back in the day. Teddy gave Win a sounding board for his concerns for his family and advice on how to move forward.

Though I found most of the characters well developed, I did find the plot and motivations behind the kidnapping to be basic and the villains were not the sharpest tacks in the box leading to some not well thought out shenanigans on their part.

Recommended to those that enjoy a good main character in a Hollywood setting.

Thank you to Netgalley, Crooked Lane Books and Dreamscape Media for a copy provided for an honest review.
fiction mystery1 Leane669 22

This page-turning debut from a Hollywood filmmaker reads very much a screenplay and would be easily adapted for the big screen and will appeal to anyone who wants an action-driven, high stakes story with an endearing, if flawed, protagonist. The Hollywood and CA setting does much to underscore the tensions as there is a lot of driving, threatening, shooting, a kidnapping, and a desperate father who happens to be not-quite-an A List-movie star. Win Greene is a credible CH and his posse, including the Washingtons (capable wife/stuntman husband), Teddy (ex-cop now PI), and granddaughter Amy are fully sketched. The bad guys; however, are soul-less and reprehensible. Lindstrom attempts to give us their motivation but they are pure venality. It is also difficult to empathize with Win’s daughter Clare and son-in-law. The Hollywood and action movie allusions are terrific and add to the reader’s anticipation of how this mostly predictable Plot will unfold. Also well used is the realities of Hollywood, the business, and the skills actors and stunt people may be able to translate to real life (in a crisis). The illusions of stardom, the tabloid press and social media appetite, the sticky weather, the dank basement, the opulence that resides so close to the broken and crumbling all add Tone. The dialogue pushes both Tone and Pace, sometimes adds some humor, and CH development. Short chapters, clever fictitious chapter epigrams (movie quotes from Win’s career), and curiosity kept me reading. Readers who Lee Goldberg, Stephen J. Cannell, and Stuart Woods may want to check this out.pace procedural1 Michele1,440

Hollywood Hustle drew my attention with its blurb. A washed up actor who had battled alcoholism. He wasn't very close to his daughter but still saw her and his granddaughter periodically. During his time in acting, he'd made some good connections, including a stuntman and detective that he'd kept in contact with. When his daughter is abducted by what appears to be a gang and they obviously are looking for a ransom, he will need all the help and friends he can find.

This book had great potential but moved a bit too slowly for me. I feel it revisited some of the information repeatedly even when it wasn't needed. I still d it but would have enjoyed it more if it had a little more zip to it.

AUDIOBOOK: The audiobook was more enjoyable because the author did his own narration. As a person with an acting background, he did a wonderful job. The audiobook was by far more enjoyable that reading it on my own. 4 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley for early copies of both the ebook and audiobook.2024-netgalley-reads 2024-reads arc ...more1 LianaReads blog2,445 216

https://www.instagram.com/p/C29dRi-gvTa/


"Hollywood Hustle" by Jon Lindstrom takes readers on a thrilling ride through the dark side of the LA film industry. Lindstrom, an Emmy-nominated actor, crafts a compelling debut that delves into the price of fame and the seedy underbelly of Hollywood. The story follows has-been film star Winston Greene as he faces a nightmare scenario – his daughter kidnapped by a murderous gang demanding his nonexistent "movie money." Lindstrom's narrative is fast-paced, introducing a diverse cast of characters whose perspectives add depth to the plot. While some dialogue and plot elements may feel derivative, the novel excels in unexpected twists and over-the-top moments. Lindstrom's efficient pacing and the dysfunctional dynamics of the kidnappers make for an engaging read. Despite a few clichés, "Hollywood Hustle" showcases Lindstrom's potential, offering a gripping thriller with memorable characters and a glimpse into the darker side of Hollywood.1 Star Gater1,373 47

Thank you Dreamscape Media for allowing me to audibly read and review Hollywood Hustle on NetGalley.

Narrator: Jon Lindstrom

Published: 02/06/24

Stars: 3

This debut novel had highs and lows. The synopsis drew me in and I was good with the story, writing and characters until Lindstrom started with the profanity. Early on I thought what a shame, this could have been a good first adult thriller. The kidnapping is straightforward. Father and daughter both drug addicts makes the background current. There is what appears to be the standard early in life death. Nothing gruesome.

The main character has two friends that help him. I d that in this stressed environment they were smart. There was no childish bantering. It felt topically realistic. They were responsible and reasonable, and I appreciate these type of characters.

Around 60% the story went south for me. I heard blah blah blah. Lindstrom is tying loose ends up and preparing for the ending. I was bored and confused. These chapters (all short) were just rushed. I did rewind and tried a second time and had the same results. This weakened the ending that I did ; a simple reminder, this is his debut novel.

The author narrates the book. While I enjoyed his performance to a point, I think a professional narrator could have helped get me through the 60% blah blah blah.

I'm game to read a second by this author.


Hollywood Hustle was also a GoodReads Giveaway win for me. There were times I read along. I will donate the book.1 Sue Plant1,756 18

would to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

i wish i could say that i had enjoyed it and i have to say it started off really well and drew me in but alas it couldnt hold my attention and i put it down

i can see that others thoroughly enjoyed this book though and i can only put it down to my mood of what i want to read rather than the book1 Marles Henry640 30

“Hollywood Hustle is the kind of blockbuster drama you would employ seasoned actors for a “one last big drama before retirement” moment, where there is a quick shake off and the protagonist is back up for more with no need to visit an emergency ward. An interesting story; not sure if it fully resonated with me but it was very Hollywood. It felt it was set earlier than present day. I suspect that Lindstrom’s personal knowledge of Hollywood and being a TV star, added to the character of this story. And this might sound weird but as a suspense novel, it was a little too happy-every-after (not that I wanted a devastating outcome). “Hollywood Hustle” has all the feels of a Hollywood action movie in book form. There were so many guns – everyone had guns – and I’m not sure if this was a generalised depiction of Hollywood but are people really armed to the nines? With guns comes a lot of trauma, a lot of death and villany, and sleazy characters, and these were all in this book.

The action explodes out of almost every page with a lot of violence and violent crime against almost every character, from shootings to punch ups to break-ins and kidnapping. The storyline behind the drama was not that intense, and a lot of the dialogue didn’t match up to the intensity of the action and seemed clunky. With each new character on the scene, the chapters would unfold in depth about their backgrounds and connection to other characters. That was a great tool in this book to set the scene of all the back stories, including Winston, an almost washed-up actor who lost his wife, fought cancer and was fighting for his daughter, and trying to save his grand-daughter. However, the integration of this with the plot was not as far as I was hoping.1 Toni1,778 20

Lindstrom does an admirable job on his first novel with good characters and descriptive backgrounds in an area he knows well. The ending gets a little soapy but the story has enough drama and action to hold your interest until the end.1 Howard Davis159 13

Hollywood Hustle is basically the story of a down on his luck actor past his prime. There is a lot going on in the book — kidnapping, murders, alcohol addiction, drug abuse, unsavory characters and a scandal newspaper publication .
It is also a story about family and relationships, friends and loyalty. It is all very interesting reading and one can immediately empathize with most of the characters.
This book is recommended for anyone who enjoys this genre and I thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this novel prior to publication.1 Chris383

I thought the storyline to this sounded pretty promising. Sadly, the chargers were very flat and one sided, and it went from promising to predictable. Just couldn't enjoy this one.1 Unseen Library808 46

I received a copy of Hollywood Hustle from Netgalley to review.

I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of the intriguing thriller debut, Hollywood Hustle. Written by actor Jon Lindstrom, who has appeared in quite a few crime fiction shows and films himself, Hollywood Hustle had a cool story about the price of fame and the dark side of Hollywood which I really d the sound of.

Hollywood Hustle ended up being a fun first book from Lindstrom, which takes the reader on an exiting and fast-paced adventure through a dark Hollywood kidnapping. Lindstrom starts things off quickly, with the readers given an effective introduction to the main character, fading actor Winston Greene, and the unthinkable scenario he finds himself in. After an initial focus on Greene, the author branches out the focus of the story, splitting the perspective between various characters, including Greene, his two loyal friends, the kidnappers, and more, to create a wonderful and highly entertaining narrative.

Much of the story follows Greene, as he is forced to try and raise cash he doesn’t have to secure his daughter’s release. While he goes about that, you get to see what the kidnappers are up to, as their botched operation quickly comes undone in several different ways. At the same time, one of Greene’s friends begins an investigation into the case, while a nosey tabloid journalist tries to scoop up dirt on the troubled actor. These various storylines all come crashing together, and I d how well Lindstrom was able to tell a cohesive tale while also focusing on his characters. I did find that some of the dialogue was a little weak in places, and the story did get a little derivative at times, but this was mostly a great read. I especially enjoyed how Lindstrom took the plot in some surprising and unpredictable directions, and several over-the-top deaths really spiced things up. While I didn’t love one plot twist at the end that relied on an overused writing cliché, I ended up having a lot of fun with this cool story, and I managed to finish it off in only a couple of days.

I really enjoyed Hollywood Hustles’ great story, and there were some excellent writing elements that helped it stand out. Lindstrom set a great pace for the entire book, and I appreciated how he got right down to business. I felt the entire story flowed efficiently and effectively, and he didn’t make the story overstay its welcome, finishing it off at just the right time. Splitting the perspective chapters between the various characters involved in the plot also worked well, as you quickly get multiple eyes on the dangerous unfolding situation. I d the great mixture of distinctive character perspectives that emerged, and the slow-burn introduction of the three kidnappers was pretty awesome, especially as they all have compelling individual backstories, and it quickly becomes apparent that none of them are natural team players. Honestly these three antagonists proved to be a major highlight of the entire story, and their dysfunctional relationship, over-the-top actions, and well-crafted pasts that examine interesting, failed takes on the American dream increased my enjoyment of the entire book.

However, most of Lindstrom’s character work revolves around protagonist Winston Greene, who serves as the heart and soul of the book. A formerly famous actor who has reached has-been status and now only works bit gigs, Greene is a character with many parallels in real life, which makes his story even more relatable. Initially shown to be a flawed but caring man, Lindstrom slowly reveals several of his darker demons, including the price he paid for fame, his battle with alcoholism, his struggles being a father and husband, and the guilt he harbours for his past mistakes. Lindstrom builds in a very good narrative about Greene trying to redeem himself throughout the course of Hollywood Hustle, especially when it comes to his daughter and granddaughter, and you really find yourself pulling for him as a result. The author also uses Greene’s character to help highlight the many negatives involved with a Hollywood career, which adds an interesting and personal edge to much of the plot. The protagonist’s cynical views of the acting scene, especially after a complicated and currently expired movie career, make for a great inclusion, and I personally loved the fun fictional movie quotes attributed to Greene that are scattered throughout the novel. Greene really felt a character that Lindstrom was pouring himself into, and I deeply appreciated how compelling and powerful his story got at times.

Overall, I quite d Hollywood Hustle, and I felt that it was a good, solid debut from this interesting author. While Jon Lindstrom has some growing to do as a writer, this was an excellent first effort, especially when it comes to creating great characters, and I hope we see some more entertaining books from Lindstrom in the future.

For other exciting and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/ Jeff1,390 126

Hollywood Hubris. The evocative and darkly hilarious tale of a kidnapping of a Hollywood star's daughter is well paced and quite descriptive, though it does evoke more of the 70s/ 80s vibes than more modern times - despite clearly being set in said more modern times. So perhaps it feels a touch anachronistic at times as well, but it actually somehow manages to work?

No, the biggest problem here wasn't the characterizations or the action or the (dark) comedy, it was the guns - and specifically the typical Hollywood hubris of not knowing basically anything about them. No, civilians do not have "automatic" pistols - those things are hard to get for even criminals, and generally extend a jail term much longer than they're actually worth as a tool. Instead, every time Lindstrom says "automatic", he *should* be saying "semi-automatic" or even simply "pistol", if he is seeking to distinguish it from a revolver (which he also uses in this text). (Both revolvers and non-revolving pistols are semi-automatic, meaning one bullet fires per trigger squeeze vs automatic meaning bullets keep firing as long as the trigger is held down, for those reading this review who may be under the same lack of basic gun knowledge as Lindstrom and his editors.) Further, several times when someone is shot - both from a shotgun (which does in fact pack more of a punch, as depending on the load it can send up to 2-3 .45 caliber sized pellets flying at the same speeds that a pistol sends a single .45 bullet flying at) and a pistol - the body is described as flying backwards, as Hollywood tends to do. However, this is one that anyone who has watched Mythbusters knows is incorrect, as they specifically tested this exact myth and showed that it does not actually happen. And that is *without* even having any actual gun knowledge, as it is basic physics! (F= mA -> Force = mass x Acceleration, but the target also has standing inertia that the force must be powerful enough to overcome to achieve said result... and bullets that civilians might fire - yes, even the vaunted .50 BMG round - simply don't have that kind of mass and acceleration. And by the time you get up to rounds that *do* have that kind of force... it tends to have a *far*... messier... impact than simply causing someone to fly backwards off their feet for a few feet.) A final note related yet not to these points about guns is that another author I know is actually a medical investigator in Saint Augustine, FL, and per his commentary over the years, the "tangy coppery" smell of blood that so many fiction authors use - including Lindstrom here? Also fictional. It is for all of these blatant inaccuracies - yes, even in fiction, as they actively perpetuate misinformation that could harm real people - that the star was deducted.

Still, for those who simply want an almost "Expendables" type action/ thriller with a cast of "seasoned" Hollywood dwellers trying to resolve a kidnapping of a family member of one of their own on their own... this really is quite a strong tale in that particular vein, and as long as you approach it as just that type of Hollywood action movie and check your brains at the door, you'll find a quite strong and enjoyable tale.

Recommended.1 Anne2,440 19

Hollywood Hustle by Jon Lindstrom is a mystery with murders. The mystery really is a kidnapping, but the kidnappers were less than experienced and made a mess of things, hence the murders. The protagonist is Winston Greene, one of those actors one sees all the time on TV and in movies, but many don’t know his name. He has been an alcoholic for much of his career and probably survived only because of his now deceased wife. Their only daughter, Clare was married to a loser named Zeke with whom she spent a lot of time high. The best things to come from their union was Amy, his adorable fiveish granddaughter. It was with her the story started when she was dropped off at her grandfather’s house by a stranger who commented on how much Amy looked her mother. He left the car in the drive and was picked up by another man. Clare had been kidnapped. They would be in touch. No police. But, he did have a friend, an ex-police officer he’d met on the set of a movie, who was now a PI. He called Theodore Beaureguard, who discovered in short order that the car belonged to a dead man who had been kidnapped and murdered. A warning.

One thing Lindstrom did extraordinarily well was describe the scene. He put you in the middle of whatever was happening. It was extraordinary. They wanted all his money. The joke was on them. He didn’t have any. He’d had cancer a few months earlier and with no insurance it’d cleaned him out. He and Teddy went to the bank and closed all his accounts: $28,000. They sold his car: $5,000. They tried to sell his house but it had some foundation issues and was unsellable at the moment. Clare may have been an addict but she got herself clean in captivity and was smarter than the guys that were holding her. It was a chase, well, several chases. Hollywood Hustle was an entertaining book and an amazing success for a first book. Lindstrom put much of his show business knowledge to work and came out with a better than average thriller. Good Job!

I was invited to read Hollywood Hustle by Crooked Lane Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #CrookedLaneBooks #JonLindstrom #HollywoodHustle Kathy Martin3,627 94

HOLLYWOOD HUSTLE was a gripping and gritty thriller set in LA. Winston Greene is a working actor who has overcome his addiction to alcohol and recently gotten through a cancer diagnosis. When his granddaughter is dropped off at his home with a flash drive showing her mother's plea to get her away from her kidnappers, Win is in big trouble. He's almost completely broke after letting his health insurance lapse after his wife's death and paying off his medical treatments for his cancer.

Determined to do anything he can for his daughter, he calls on some old friends including a disgraced police officer turned Private Investigator and a legendary stuntman. He is willing to do anything he can to gather a ransom to rescue his daughter, but he doesn't have much to work with.

Meanwhile, we get to know the kidnappers who are all lazy, entitled men who think the world owes them a good living and are willing to kill or steal to get it. And we meet Win's daughter Clare who is also an addict and who was instrumental in the beginnings of the plot to get money from her father. The plot quickly goes out her her control making her an actual prisoner of her three co-conspirators.

I d the action in this thriller which pits a troubled but decent man against villains who are just barely under control of themselves and who have no respect for anyone but themselves. Lindstrom created a fast-paced plot inside an excellent setting. The contrast between the villains and Win and his friends was stark.

Fans of gritty thrillers with a Hollywood connection will enjoy this one very much. I did. Joan2,609 30

Review of eBook

Early one morning, Winston Greene awakens to find his six-year-old granddaughter, Amy, standing beside his bed. The thumb drive she holds reveals that a gang abducted her mother, Winston’s daughter. He’s to pay all his money to gain her safe return.

Unable to go to the police, Winston enlists the aid of his friends. Former cop Theodore Beauregard . . . better known as Teddy . . . and stuntman Grover Washington, hoping they will be able to help him rescue Clare. What the kidnappers don’t know is that they’ve guessed wrong.

Winston Greene has no money to pay a ransom.

=========

a Hollywood film, the action is swift and breathtaking; the plot, twisty and surprising. Well-developed characters exhibit flaws and vulnerabilities as well as their strengths, making them both believable and relatable. Compelling and suspenseful, this story of a kidnapping is also a story of family and friends, a story of loyalty and love. The action is swift, sometimes unexpected; the unfolding story guaranteed to keep the pages turning as fast as possible.

The behind-the-scenes glimpses of the film industry add a layer of interest in the telling of this tale. As might be expected in such as story, the emotions are strong and often introspective. Readers who enjoy action-filled tales are sure to enjoy this exciting story.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
#HollywoodHustle #NetGalley
Dianne1,648 129

1.5 Stars - rounded up because I finished it.

Well, the best I can say about this novel is that I finished it and that it was a fast read. I did manage to finish this book to see how the author pulled off a happily-ever-after-type storyline. And what a fairy tale it was, especially the ending!


Trigger warnings--- Heavy drug usage, multiple murders, kidnapping, incredibly bad plotting, and overly descriptive/wordy.

Since Mr.Lindstom is/was an actor, I can see why this book was filled with movie references, even if they seemed to be in there for really no reason at all. Yes, the character of Winston was an actor (never a star!), so we could expect a lot of references to the art.

I could not manage to feel anything for these characters - not sadness, which I should have felt based on the kidnapping, not horror of all of the deaths, nor did I find anything amusing, which I am sure we are supposed to have felt at times.

Since Winston's daughter had been kidnapped, this book was about him and his buddies getting her back. However, he goes about it in the stupidest ways possible. I don't even want to talk about what he and his pals do because it would spoil the book for those who want to read it.

*ARC supplied by the publisher Crooked Lane Books, the author, and NetGalley.

"Jon Robert Lindstrom is an American actor, writer, director, producer, and musician. He is well known for his roles of Kevin Collins and Ryan Chamberlain on the ABC Daytime soap opera General Hospital and its spin-off Port Charles.

2024 galleys-arcs netgalley2 s Judy Collins2,834 403

Jon Lindstrom, a four-time Emmy-nominated actor of General Hospital, Bosch, and True Detective fame, delivers HOLLYWOOD HUSTLE —set in the dark underbelly of the LA film industry a riveting, action-packed debut thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat to the explosive ending.

Set in Wrightwood, California, 81 miles northeast of Hollywood, we meet Winston Greene, an alcoholic who has been a film star. He wakes up with his six-year-old granddaughter, Amy (Amelia) by his side.

Amy is traumatized and unattended, holding a thumb drive, which contains a video of Win's adult daughter Clare (Clarissa) —the girl's mom, who has been kidnapped by a gang demanding all his movie money for her safe return.

Win's wife died tragically in a car accident years ago after an argument that still haunts him. Winston (Win) cannot tell the kidnappers he has NO money. After his wife died, he let his insurance lapse, and cancer, hospitals, and treatments wiped out all his money and savings. He only has his house and credit cards.

Frantically, he is desperate and puts off the kidnappers as he is afraid to go to the cops since they said they would kill his daughter. His house has some issues, and he will not get much for it due to some problems he discovers and cannot sell it quickly.

He turns to his two best friends for help—a former disgraced LAPD detective, Theodore (Teddy), and a legendary Hollywood stuntman, Grover Washington.

He gets updates from the kidnapper, stating they will send her body in bags if they do not get the money. Frantically, he tries to figure out how to raise the money and get his daughter back safely.

In the meantime, we hear from Clare and the kidnappers—a plan gone wrong. Will she be able to escape before it is too late? We also get the backstories of the characters. All the characters are flawed and have made mistakes. Win is trying to redeem himself and save his daughter and granddaughter.

There’s no easy way out for Winston or his daughter—they are killers and will do anything to get money. They think he has the cash or can get it. He will have to outsmart the kidnappers to get his daughter back alive. (yes, he needs Tommy Lee Jones to help save the day).

HOLLYWOOD HUSTLE is action-packed with a twisty plot and well-developed, deeply flawed characters you care about mixed with humor. a Hollywood film, the actor turned novelist (a Hollywood insider) knows his way around LA and includes some fun behind-the-scenes footage of the film industry and mentions of stars. I enjoyed Win's character, and he reminds me of Bosch.

High stakes, high octane, and heart-pounding! Fans of Michael Connelly and Alex Finlay will enjoy this thrill ride. Bosch fans will want to give this a whirl!

AUDIOBOOK: I read the e-book and listened to the audiobook narrated by the author (a pro), which bumped the book from 4 to 5 stars with a spectacular narration for an engaging performance for all voices. I highly recommend the audio! I cannot wait to see what comes next.

Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Dreamscape Media for a gifted ARC and ALC for an honest review.

Blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Feb 6, 2024
My Rating: 5 Stars (audio)
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2024-ng-group-challenge 2024-releases arc-audio-netgalley ...more1 Suzanne122

I have been watching Jon Lindstrum on my favorite TV show for over 30 years. Not only is he an amazing actor but now, he is also a wonderful author. Hollywood Hustle is his first novel but I am confident it won't be his last.

Winston Green is an aging movie star. One morning he awakens to see his six-year-old granddaughter, Amy, standing over him holding a flash drive. The flash drive is proof that his daughter, Amy's mother, has been abducted. For her return, the kidnappers want all of his money. What the kidnappers don't know is all of his money is gone.?Now what is he going to do! He can't go to the police for fear they will kill his daughter, Claire, so?he gets help from his two closest friends, a Hollywood stunt man and?a former LAPD detective turned private investigator. They put their heads together to find a way to meet the kidnappers demands. Will he come up with the money in time to save his daughter??

It’s a suspenseful ride that takes you to the wild side of LA. Be prepared to lose sleep because it’s one of those books you can’t get enough of. It’s suspenseful, and it’s full of surprises as to how far these abductors will go for money and how far Winston will go for his daughter’s safe return.2024 fiction thriller Vanessa816 55

Let me be frank— "Hollywood Hustle" by Jon Lindstrom left me feeling underwhelmed and unimpressed. As a reader eager for a gripping thriller, I found myself sorely disappointed by the lackluster execution of what could have been a promising premise.

From the outset, the novel introduces us to Winston Greene, a washed-up film star thrust into a frantic race against time to save his kidnapped daughter. While the stakes are undeniably high, I couldn't shake the feeling of detachment as I followed Winston's journey through the seedy underbelly of the LA film industry.

While I appreciate Lindstrom's attempt to infuse the narrative with tension and suspense, I couldn't help but find the plot contrived and the characters lacking in depth. Winston's actions often felt implausible, leaving me questioning the realism of his decisions in the face of danger.

Moreover, the heavy-handed use of movie references, while perhaps intended as an homage to Hollywood culture, came across as forced and gratuitous, adding little substance to an already lackluster storyline.

Despite my disappointment, I will concede that "Hollywood Hustle" does have its moments of intrigue and action. The fast-paced narrative may appeal to readers seeking a quick thrill, but for those craving depth and nuance, this novel falls short of expectations.

While "Hollywood Hustle" had the potential to be a gripping thriller, it ultimately failed to deliver on its promises. As a reader hungry for a compelling narrative, I found myself let down by the lackluster execution and superficial storytelling. Cheryl2,347 59

Kidnapping and intrigue in movie land

Winston Greene is a "B-List" movie star living in the LA area. His films are the ones that show up late at night, usually action thrillers. But he's been in a lot of them and people tend to recognize him on the streets, asking him for his autograph.

One morning he wakes up and Amy, his traumatized granddaughter is standing by his bedside with a thumb drive for him. His daughter, Clare (Amy's mother) has been kidnapped and the thugs want him to pay a huge ransom...from his movie earnings, you know. They don't realize he's broke.

So Win, with a couple of friends, has to figure out how to save his daughter from men who 1) don't believe he's not a millionaire actor, and 2) aren't afraid to kill anyone standing in the way of what they believe is going to be a big payoff.

This was a quick moving thriller that I recommend especially if you crime stories that take place in the LA area or involve the movie industry, which this touches on.

I received this Digital Review Copy from Crooked Lane Books through Net Galley and Edelweiss in the hopes that I would read it and leave an unbiased review. This is that review. Jill 64 1 follower

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