“The Developer Phase II…Building on Bravado” is the sequel to “The Developer”. The story begins on New Years’ Eve in 1979, as Alexander Kellogg reflects on conquering his challenges from the prior eighteen months. Also known as Xander and Mr. X, Kellogg continues his quest to build iconic office buildings using bravado and deceit, clashing with his project lenders, competitors, partners, leasing brokers, and government authorities. With his zeal to become the dominant office developer in Denver, Mr. X takes on multiple projects, straining his capital resources, ultimately leading to collaborating with suspicious partners, enablers, and lenders. Xander is also haunted with incessant threats linking him to an unsolved murder.
The narrative looks back on several events and characters introduced in “The Developer”. The story covers a time frame from 1980 through early 1983, when Denver, Colorado became a major hub for oil exploration and explosive business growth, fueling the demand for office building development. In addition to various real estate schemes, the storyline is intertwined with crime, including two murders, creating elements of suspense throughout the novel. The plot also introduces the chaotic period when Savings and Loans became aggressive commercial property lenders, creating an opportunity for Kellogg to buy an insolvent thrift institution to finance his own projects.
There are a significant number of characters incorporated in the novel, strategically interacting with Alexander Kellogg, covering family relationships, business and real estate connectors, political allies, and his romantic partners. The significant use of dialogue moves the story along at a fast pace.
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqhnbpyPOLQ
Reviews
“It was an outstanding read. I enjoyed it very, very much. You’re an excellent writer and I look forward to the next book. In my opinion, you’re as good as Michael Connelly, Michael Crichton, John Grisham and James Patterson.” (JW)
“This is the second book in a trilogy that follows the escapades of a fictional Denver developer, now in the early 80’s. Having been in the commercial real estate industry for over thirty years, it was so much fun to follow the shenanigans of the main character Mr. X. Fast paced and just a fantastic read. I read the first book in three days and the second one in just two! The only bummer is now I have to wait a while for the third one to come out. Won’t spoil anything but can’t wait to see what ultimately happens in the life of Mr. X!” (DS)
The novel was fast paced. The style allowed it to progress quickly with minimal need for transition spacers. Showed an incredible knowledge of real estate and especially the Denver real estate market. The main character was a caricature. He was engaging in his deviousness. The reader hopes that he will trip himself up, but he keeps cheating his way out of his just desserts! Can’t wait for the last sequel. (WA)
“Not only was the book interesting but it gave a very insightful look into the commercial real estate market. The book ties up the loose ends from the first book and continues the exploits of Mr. X. It really sets up the third book in the series. Very good read and will be enjoyed by most. “(GS)
“I thoroughly enjoyed the second novel of the “Developer”, the continuation of the first. The main character, Xander Kellogg, is a true scoundrel, doing his best to get ahead of everyone. He is a developer with many projects and friends and enemies during the heyday of Denver’s boom years. Lots going on. Looking forward to the next one.” (BB)
“Only an author who spent his entire career in the real estate development industry could have written this latest chapter in the saga of Xander Kellogg. This bombastic developer exposes an in-depth entertaining story of intriguing twists and turns to achieve the Xander’s quest for fame and fortune during the boom years in Denver. Xander will stop at nothing while sacrificing all the human virtues of honesty, trust, kindness, and humility. The reader suffers along with his treatment of family, friends, and associates while secretly hoping that Xander will somehow overcome his narcissistic criminal imperfections. This second chapter in the Kellogg exploits could even be instructive for both academia and the industry. A Xander trilogy will be necessary and certainly welcomed.” (DF)
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