In Chasing Money, author Michael Balter delivers a thrilling mystery filled with suspense, crime, and unexpected twists, taking two ordinary guys on an extraordinary adventure. The story centers around Marty and Bo, two friends struggling to keep their startup, Paladin, afloat. They are faced with dwindling funds, personal strain, and intense familial pressure. Nico Scava, an investor, offers them a lucrative deal, which they eagerly accept. However, Nico's involvement isn't what it seems, and soon Marty and Bo find themselves entangled in a dangerous game, confronted and trapped by a Russian thug, gun in hand, demanding $10 million and a lost painting. With Nico murdered, the two become entangled in a high-stakes game. As the stakes escalate, they encounter shady art dealers, con artists, and criminals, all while trying to protect their loved ones. Their journey becomes a wild adventure full of mystery and suspense as they frantically search for the artwork and the cash, with each twist in their mission becoming more unexpected along the way.

Balter skillfully weaves art, deceptive deals, entrepreneurial struggles, and suspense into this captivating thriller. The writing is witty and evocative, with unforeseen twists and clues that keep readers guessing. The humor keeps the narrative lighthearted, showing the fear and confusion of the characters in a way that is both suspenseful and comical. The book is paced well and flows smoothly, with each chapter revealing details, clues, and unexpected developments that add layers and intrigue to the narrative. The author successfully builds palpable tension, highlighting the dangers and stakes involved with the pressure and looming threat of a deadline. The title is fitting, underscoring the characters' chase for financial survival, taking them to the most dangerous of extremes. The characters' relatable struggles and personas are conveyed well, making it easy for readers to become invested in their fate. The narrative also seamlessly weaves elements of art history, forgery, and the dark underbelly of the art world, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the already gripping plot. Chasing Money by Michael Balter is a highly enjoyable read that offers a refreshing blend of humor, art, suspense, and action, perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers, crime, and mystery.

Chasing Money: A Marty and Bo Thriller by Michael Balter is a witty crime thriller. Marty and Bo are struggling. Their startup is failing, they are flat broke, and their private lives are in trouble, too. When Nico Scava approaches them with an investment offer, it’s too good to pass up – he’s got the connections and the money they need. But when he turns up dead, Marty and Bo are in deep trouble. The Russian mob is hot on their tails. They need to find a missing painting and $10 million very quickly, or they’ll be joining Scava in a long sleep. What was Scava involved in? Can Marty and Bo escape? As more bodies follow them, they’ll need to make the toughest decisions of their lives.

Chasing Money by Michael Balter starts on a high and continues in the same vein all the way through. Every character in this book is well-developed, rounded into real people with their own personalities that lend something to the story, even the smaller players. This is a serious thriller but it’s also got plenty of wit and humor to lighten the load. The captivating writing will draw you in and keep you on the hook right to the end, with sharp dialog and descriptions that will make you feel as though you are there. The plot is unique and there are plenty of twists and turns, not to mention heart-pounding terror in parts. The author has done his research on certain aspects of this story, too, not least art forgery and Nazi loot. And every chapter will leave you wanting more – just one more chapter, then I’ll put it down. Not happening. This is highly recommended to crime thriller aficionados, and I guarantee you’ll read it in one sitting. I can’t wait to see if there will be a sequel to this exciting addition to the genre.