The Aspen Account Paperback – February 28, 2012

DeVore tells a story that’s a bit slow to get started, but once it gets going, it’s a n exciting adventure with plenty of twists and turns for an exciting climax. I’m anxious for his next novel.

For a book about business practices and accounting, there is plenty of intrigue, character development and flat-out action packed into The Aspen Account. For the most part, the large cast of characters is managed fairly well. Readers are given the biggest insight into Michael Chapman's life and motivations, and we learn a lot about his background and basic accounting practices this way. (Before picking up the book, I was concerned that my typical "math aversion" would turn me off to the accounting parts, but it was written very clearly and was easy enough for a lay person to grasp.) I was disappointed that we kind of lost the path of the character of Sarah, the journalist, about halfway through the book or so. There were some chapters written from her point of view early on, and then she kind of disappeared except as a periphery character to Michael's plot for most of the rest of the book.The plot itself kept twisting and turning, and just when I thought things were surely wrapping up....we took off in a new direction! It was like what I imagine skiing a difficult hill would be like (which was also a big part of the book)...always a new twist or turn to navigate. Overall, I thought the characters and the plot were realistic, and I was satisfied with the way everything wrapped up in the end.

I really enjoy reading books by this author. He writes so darn well. This is my second book by him. I thought I wasn't going to be all that interested in a book based on the financial horrors by a corporation, (thought I got it all in the real world) but boy was I fooled. Mr. Devore led me on and on. There is fraud, murder, heartbreak, and satisfaction at the way this story ended. I do recommend any book by this writer. He takes you into the environment of his stories, and you feel you are there. This book is set in wintry Denver, Aspen...lovely places. I liked the protagonist a lot! You won't be disappointed in this book. I'd give it 5 stars, but the first book claimed that final star: The Paris Protection. I look forward to reading all his books.

I was prepared to be disappointed when I purchased this book, assuming that the majority of the glowing reviews were from friends and family, given that it's a first novel. But it sounded intriguing and was priced right, so I took a chance. I really enjoyed it -- solid plot, fast pacing, a reasonably well-drawn main character, and an interesting concept. It was also well written and edited, without all the typos and misuse of words that I've come to expect in many of the less expensive Kindle books. There were some portions that were a little uneven, and a few that were somewhat far-fetched. A couple of plot points made me wonder why a character who was supposedly so smart would fall into an obvious trap, but those didn't detract much from the story. This is a very worthy effort, and I hope the author will keep writing!

As an author, I enjoy reading stories that are well thought out and have believability to them. The Aspen Account has both of those in spades.The first part of the book feels like the reader is being mocked - the author chooses to consistently remind you of what he isn't telling you. It's an early flaw, but don't let this dissuade you. Once this story gets rolling, it becomes impossible to put down. The characters are believable, the events dramatic, but not far-fetched, and the misdirection perfectly executed in this narrative ballet.The work is not heavy on accounting or business jargon that would make a reader weary. There is enough explanation to provide context to the story and move it forward without inviting boredom. The author managed to walk that line with precision, having multiple opportunities to go to far.In short, this book is worth every dime you pay for it. The lessons the author espouses in this work will not be lost on you by the end.

Although I know little to nothing about accounting, the author explained all I needed to know to follow this story. It could have been tedious and boring but it was not. Finished reading the book just before 6 am having started it when I retired to bed; as it says in the heading, I found this a riveting read combining all needed to create a compelling thriller.

Great read. Slow to start, but several revelations and twists half way through the book created an acceleration in pace that kept me gripped through to the final chapter. It could have ended slightly better... the final chapter lacked the gritty reality of life, and in many ways failed to set up or leave the door open for a follow up novel or sequel. That's a shame.Nonetheless, a highly recommended read. Few similar books in this genre. Especially for any accountants out there who fancy a decent flowing fictional account with more than a twinge of exciting twists and turns.Great first effort Bryan. Looking forward to more of the same.

I enjoyed this book once I got into it. You expect a 'thriller' to keep you on your toes but not too many accountants that I know are that thrilling !!

New to this author , A very good read the book flows well and is easy to read. And for the price excellent value.

I found the writing style of the author captivating. The story grabbed my imagination and I felt close to the characters. It was definitely a Page Turner as I read it very quickly. Extremely enjoyable and I look forward to reading his next work of "fiction". Thank you Bryan.