Phantom Money

Declan Collins is a marked man, he is the target of merciless assassins employed by one of the top cartels in Mexico. How did his life become mired in danger? Declan is a lawyer in high demand by tax dodging ne’er do wells, his counterparts despise him and his clients. Recently, Declan has been pondering his work and its downside. His longtime friend, Matt has been shopping around a screenplay Declan wrote and believes the potential movie could prove their goldmine. Declan has his doubts until both men are contacted by two businessmen.

Gregario is a Mexican businessman who owns a production company. He is thrilled by Declan’s screenplay but wants to learn more about the intricacies of the plot contained within the work. Declan and Matt explain the ins and outs of the plot, which pertains to a convoluted money laundering operation, Gregario takes copious notes. He is pleased and informs the men that a deal is very possible. A follow-up meeting is set in Mexico, where the men are horrified to find out their screenplay will be played out in reality.

Ramon Cayetano reigns as a chieftain over one of Mexico’s largest drug cartels. He is ruthless beyond words, holding his subordinates under the tightest of grips. However, he is locked in a violent war with rival cartels for territory, his empire is at risk. He is looking for a vehicle to move and wash his ill-gotten gains. With few words, he explains to Declan and Matt that their plan to launder vast proceeds of his money best be successful, as he holds their lives in the balance, along with a family member of Matt’s.

Meanwhile, a highly sensitive operation is being run through the FBI and other letter agencies of the government to defeat Cayetano and his cartel. Anna Torres is assigned to a strike force gathered with this purpose in mind. The Justice Department learns of the potential laundering operation and Anna goes undercover in Declan’s law firm. Declan and Matt have returned to the United States under the strictest of guidelines, they also are under constant surveillance. Failure is not an option, but neither is giving up without a fight.

Phantom Money jumps out of the gate with a breathless pace that never relinquishes its hold on the reader’s mindset. Author O’Keefe scripts an eminently enjoyable book, which never dims in action, suspense or drama. The pacing is brisk, yet the reader will not be left behind. This is a stellar effort with a broad appeal.