Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

Duncan Wagner despised State Representative Winthrop Lowell Booker, III. He had his revenge planned; he would take the man’s son. When Duncan saw his opening, he kidnapped eleven-year-old Gabriel Booker, but things did not go quite as he planned. He never expected to like to kid. Gabriel never took advantage of his many chances to escape while Duncan worked as a Santa Claus. The two form a strange friendship despite the circumstances.

I usually offer a longer summary of a book, but it would ruin this story for the readers. A Jolly Good Fellow by Stephen V. Masse is a charming book. Stephen V. Masse is an extremely talented author. He has created a tale of quiet wit, drama, and emotion. The parents of Gabriel seem cold and more concerned with their political image than with their child’s safety. Gabriel was an endearing child, feeling accepted in the company of Duncan. While kidnapping is a horrendous crime, you could not help but like Duncan and have some empathy for him. The relationship that develops between Duncan and Gabriel is unique and one that I for one wanted to see flourish. This book has a unique twist to it. Much of the drama is understated and allows to readers to draw their own conclusion. I truly like this book and highly recommend A Jolly Good Fellow to fans of mystery.