The Sam Acquillo mysteries, set on the darker shores of the Hamptons, are always a delight, and Deep Dive is an enjoyable addition to the collection. Sam’s rich friend is in trouble, and Sam is quick to reply to a call for help. But philanthropist Burton Lewis’s predicament leads to mysteries upon mysteries, with threats to those Sam holds dear (including the dog) and a side-trip to post-hurricane Puerto Rico, where thoroughly believable characters struggle to rebuild lives. Genuine generosity of rich and poor comes face to face with devious deception in this tale, and America’s luxuries take on a different hue. Mistakes on the path to giving and receiving help are hauntingly drawn. And their implications for resolving the mystery are pleasingly obscure.

Acquillo knows that the rich are different—he was one of them once. But he also knows the poor are important. Seeing through clearer eyes perhaps than most, he puts clues together even while acknowledging distractions, and finally, satisfyingly, finds that final key. His narration draws readers into his world and interests, and offers surprisingly lyrical descriptions, self-deprecating humor, great dialog, and enjoyable relationships, making for a captivating read.

Deep Dive is a novel of contrasts, inviting readers into the depths of co-existing realities, and perfectly balancing characters and opinions on the way. Like a dog that sometimes eats pate and enjoys it (as Sam’s wonderful Eddie might) the rich really are both different and the same, and opportunity rules. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

Disclosure: I was given a preview copy and I offer my honest review ( )