Runner in Red

If you are a runner or not, Tom Murphy will pull you into his novel with a riveting story line, interesting tokens from the Boston Marathon, as well as images that we can all relate to. In the end you will shed a tear, as you cheer the characters across the finish line.

From the very first chapter, I found it difficult to put this book down. An amazing job by Tom Murphy intertwining fact, fiction, love and heartbreak in this deeply enthralling novel. A must read for all.

Great story of the history of woman’s running. Quick read, interesting story. Tells the story of how females had to fight their way into marathon running

I had the pleasure of meeting Tom Murphy this evening. What a wonderful person. He offered to give me a copy of this book but I insisted on purchasing. I will begin reading the second it comes in the mail!

It had me enthralled.

A great book written by a very talented runner and writer, Tom Murphy!

Inspiring fictional account with lots of running history built in.

Runner in Red is an easy-to-read/ hard-to-put-down story told through the eyes of 29 year old narrator, Colin Patrick, whose career as a once promising young shortstop for the Boston Red Sox had been cut short after an on-field accident years before the story begins. He has drifted into a career as a TV news cameraman; and has worked in several different cities for several different stations before winding up in Boston as assistant to the high-powered, talented, Bridget Maloney, a one-time marathon runner, now in her late 40s. From there the story takes off. As Colin adjusts to his new surroundings, he becomes infatuated with a beautiful young woman runner after a couple of chance encounters. He then becomes drawn into the lore of the Boston Marathon and its history, particularly the legacy of women’s participation in the annual event. Tom Murphy’s writing is full of compassion and love. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, family secrets, making-peace-with-the-past, romance, intrigue, bitterness, forgiveness, and redemption will have you turning pages as the mix of fictional and historic figures search for truth, fulfillment, and love.

At every turn, I was completely convinced I’d figured out who she was. And I kept being wrong. 🤔 So either Tom Murphy is a very good mystery writer or I am a dreadful sleuth! I’m going with the first. Good job, Tom!

As an avid runner and former television reporter, RUNNER IN RED captured my heart right off the bat with the “What if” scenario. Did a female runner wearing red actually race in the1951 Boston Marathon? As the plot unfolds you will eagerly anticipate each twist and turn until you learn the astonishing truth. Tom Murphy is an exceptional story teller. As a runner himself his detail about the sport and Boston area transports you smack in the middle of the action. You won’t put the novel down until you cross the finish line. Do yourself or your running partner a favor and hit the buy button now.

I finally started my summer reading with this book – and I am happy to say I finished it in 2 hours! This book has everything, mystery, history, family dynamics and a love story that’ll make you smile. It moves at a perfect pace, and anyone who lives in Boston proper will appreciate the places mentioned. Absolutely would recommend to anyone!

A well written, well paced book that had me hooked by the story and characters right away. I had to keep reminding myself it was fiction. Super plausible story and timing could not have been better with first woman to win the race this year!!!

What a great read! Marathons in NYC and Boston. Scenes in Phily, Albany, and Egremont! What’s not to like? How in the world can there be surprises every few pages? The characters are timely developed and most are very likable or relatable. How about someone Irish not speaking to someone in the family? How about guilt and gender bias? Most runner’s will love it. Read it in two days.

I really enjoyed Runner in Red. I read quit a bit, about 3 books a month. I read Connely, Demille, Grisham, Flynn, Sanford, Baldacci and the like. Your book kept my attention cover to cover. Well done! I really enjoyed it.

After reading this story I felt like sprinting and falling in love. The unraveling mystery kept me engrossed. If only Colin Patrick were single, available….and real☺

The book is a page-turner with its unexpected twists, the character development and the revelation of their intertwined pasts. I also loved the sweet feel ending. It is always a pleasure to be reminded of the possibilities for inward and outward joy and accomplishment.

A great book that you race to finish! A wonderful story of the intricacies of family relationships and the strength and courage of women were all woven into this enjoyable tale of the legend of what may have been the first woman marathon runner. A must read in this age where women again are stepping up to the challenge of finding their voice and their way in society. A very touching story.

Great combination of running and intrigue! I read and thoroughly enjoyed the book when it first came out and couldn’t wait to revisit it in the audio version! Even more fun! But be forewarned…at the least you’ll want to put your shoes on and go for a run, or if you’re like me, your hope to run Boston will be heightened!

A great fictional mystery around the legend of the first possible woman runner in the Boston Marathon. A great cast of characters, some of which I hope show up in future books. Great local connections to the Boston area. The narrator of the book reminds me of Sam from the TV series "Cheers". I really hope this author uses this book as a start of a series.