mystery, mysticism, crime-thriller, ex-cop, Buddhism, detective, spirituality, suspense, surveillance, surprises, dishonest-business-practices, multigenerational, multiple-murder, investigations, first-in-series, California, local-law-enforcement, friends, friendship, frustration, riveting, situational-humor, verbal-humor*****

Tenzing Norbu has been a Tibetan monk and an LAPD detective but is now a detective in the private sector considering becoming a licensed PI. He is still fast friends with his LAPD partner/wife/baby twins, but few others. Then a former songstress shows at is door by mistake but is murdered shortly after. Thus, he starts on an investigation with his nerd friend (computer whiz) and finds a whole lot of trouble and dishonesty as well as a new friend (septuagenarian).
The characters are all realistic and engaging, the investigation riveting, the world building very effective, and the plot twists somewhat aggravating. In other words, I loved it.
Jeremy Arthur is an amazing voice actor who really rocks this role as narrator! ( )

The First Rule of Ten is a uniquely entertaining and enlightening blend of crime fiction and Buddhist awareness. What a pleasure to read a mystery book full of insight, intrigue, and light. The protagonist, Tenzing Norbu, epitomizes the perfect balance between being spiritual and being human. Told with a quick pace, and interesting characters like Tank the feline sidekick, The First Rule of Ten is an enchanting story with rich acumen and true originality. ( )

Really enjoyed it and look forward to the next installment. Great juxtaposition of real life and relationships with a mindfulness practice (right up my alley!). ( )

Excellent combination of a PI with Buddhist monk past. Good story line and leaves you wanting to read more. ( )

Liked it far more than I thought I would. ( )