Mahu—-a generally negative Hawaiian term for homosexuals—-introduces a unique character to detective fiction. Kimo Kanapa'aka is a handsome, mixed-race surfer living in Honolulu, a police detective confronting his sexual orientation in an atmosphere of macho bravado within the police force.

A man of intelligence, strength, honesty, resourcefulness, and intense dedication to the people of Hawai'i, Kimo is a hard-boiled hero you will never forget. This case will take him from the sun-splashed beaches of Waikiki to elegant hilltop neighborhoods—and into the darkness of the human heart.

Fast-paced, intricately plotted, thoroughly enjoyable, Mahu is a sexy, surprisingly moving mystery about discovering oneself as much as catching a killer.

Plakcy is a four-time finalist for the Lambda Literary Award. This is the first in the series.

What the critics have said about the Mahu Investigations:

"Plakcy keeps the waves of suspense crashing!" In LA Magazine

"Hits all the right notes as a mystery." Mystery Book News

"Kimo brings needed diversity to the genre, and the author handles the island setting well." Honolulu Star-Bulletin

"Spotless pace, intriguing plots twists, and an earnest depiction of challenges faced by people transitioning out of the closet." Honolulu Advertiser

"Recommended to a wide audience." Reviewing the Evidence