When Derek Sodoc, only son of the world's richest and most powerful man dies attempting to climb Mt. Everest, questions are raised. Was it the mountain? Or perhaps something more sinister. After reading the book Abandoned on Everest that details Derek Sodoc's untimely death, Sodoc's father coerces the surviving expedition members into return to Everest - presumably to recover Derek's body. With billions at stake and a relentless father searching for someone to blame, everyone is a suspect. Set against the backdrop of the world's highest and deadliest mountain, Murder on Everest is filled with intrigue, sex, betrayal and mystery. It is unlike any murder mystery you've ever read. This book is the first in the thrilling Summit Murder Mystery series. While each book stands alone each will provide a deeper connection with the characters and story lines. Every book is set against an exotic backdrop amidst some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth. Be sure to read all seven of the Summit Murder Mysteries: Murder on Everest, Murder on Elbrus, Murder on Mt. McKinley, Murder on Puncak Jaya, Murder on Aconcagua, Murder on Vinson Massif, Murder on Kilimanjaro.
Reviews:
"It was so real I had to keep reminding myself it was fiction. Derek Sodoc became a real person to me as he pursued the challenge set before him. Although fiction, the facts about mountain climbing, the conditioning that the climber has to endure beforehand and what actually happens on the climb make all the events so real. Add a murder and a cast of characters suspicious of being murderers and you're set to be entertained for hours. Irion and Watkins have collaborated to write an intriguing novel with a unique storyline. There are so many things that are noteworthy about this novel so ... read it and find out for yourself." -- Judy "readaholic" Lane, Canada
"Irion and Watkins have woven quite a compelling story with diversity in their characters. A bizarre plot with on target descriptions not only of Everest, but the area and history surrounding it. Readers will feel the authenticity of the book with the portrayal of the weather and efforts of the climbers. An interesting look at people's emotions and needs in a dire location." -- Connie Gregory, Book Reviewer - ConniesReviews.blogspot.com
"I love murder mysteries in general but I never have read one about a murder on Mt. Everest. Who would have thought to murder someone on Mt. Everest. How original! It was well written and full of great information about climbing."
-- Grant Stoaks, Phoenix
"Charles Irion and Ronald Watkins are wordsmiths extraordinaire! Abandoned on Everest was an exciting prequel to Murder on Everest. As the story continues, more characters are introduced and the excitement builds to frenzy after frenzy, people literally dropping like flies, along with the temperatures. Bundle up in front of the fire and prepare yourself for an adventure you are not soon to forget. Can't wait for the next book in the series. This is the stuff that Book Clubs live for."
-- Carol P., New River, AZ
“I finish few books in a single sitting, but Murder on Everest was one of them. I found it to be a gripping story … the narrative for historical or cultural context made the story all that much better. The detailed research presented was fascinating and incredibly well done. I, for one, look forward to reading the entire series. This book is one fine argument for the talent and quality readers can find in the self-published book market.” -- Robin Cain, Novelist
Murder on Everest is a gripping, intriguing tale to read. I felt as though I were one of the climbers on Mt. Everest while absorbed within its pages. Murder on Everest is an adventure filled story that will keep you turning pages well into the night.
-- Connie Harris, TCM Reviews
Murder on Everest, loved it! Educational and fun, leaving me wanting more. So thankful (IT'S A SERIES). Thanks Chuck and Ron. My definition of a Series: Seven organs of the whole body working together to be much more than a so called stand alone entity. A soloist is not a band, a band is not a orchestra, one book is not a Series. So glad Murder On Everest is part of the Summit Murder Series. Give us more! -- Douglas Markakis
I liked the book. I liked the story, but what struck me most was how well you managed to get across the grim realities of the climb. Even watched a couple of documentaries about it afterward, particularly the 1996 disaster. -- Simon Walklate, London, England
This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I am a lover of mysteries and this one hit me from all angles. The descriptions of the experiences from the preparation to the summit made me feel as if I were there on the expedition. The characters are well thought out and I am sure you will find that you know a few people like these - the opportunist, the snob, the overachiever.... all make the book that much more exciting. I didn't know anything about climbing until reading this book but felt every ache, pain and the overall physical agony of the climb. The book is as much about adventure as it is about murder. Can't wait to read the other books in the series as I am hoping that some of the characters return. -- Amazon.com Reviewer (Roadwarrior13)
Excerpt:
“What’s going on?” I asked Tom.
“That Sherpa woman is in trouble.”
“Laki?”
“That’s the one. I saw her for a moment. Horrible. Her eyes were all bugged out. Cal tried a shot of dexamethazone, but it doesn’t seem to be working.”
Dexamethazone was the drug of last resort in such a situation. It was an anti-inflammatory steroid that in certain situations was a lifesaver. That it wasn’t working was very bad news.
I went into the clinic. Calvin was still arguing with Harlan, who was making no attempt to explain himself. Laki lay nearby and looked dreadful. To see a snapshot of someone suffering from HACE with edema, you cannot imagine what you are actually looking at. Such a photo might even look funny, with the eyes bugging out in an unnatural way. What was taking place was that her brain was swelling, and there was nowhere for it to go except through the openings that held her eyes.
Laki was panting like a dog in summer. Her face was gaunt. She looked at me for help and I had none to give. She knew she was in trouble and was very, very frightened. You didn’t have to be a doctor to know that she was at the end of her rope.
Tom joined me. He glanced at her, grimaced, then turned to me. “Calvin said she’s got to be carried down now. The shot doesn’t seem to be helping. Harlan told him that the woman is already dead and he won’t risk the Sherpa in the dark.”
Harlan was right. A few minutes later, Laki stopped breathing. Calvin worked to revive her, but it was hopeless. He finally gave up and stalked off as angry as I’ve ever seen him. The Sherpa who had been nearby, moved away, not wishing to come in contact with her ghost. Someone pulled a blanket over the woman’s face, frozen in horror.
