Starred Review. Matt Scudder, bestseller Block's extraordinary private detective, has been around for almost 30 years, and if his aging has been neither gentle nor graceful, it's certainly been eventful. In his stellar 16th outing (after 2001's Hope to Die), the 60-something Scudder proves to be as tough and resilient as ever when faced with the slickest, sickest killer to ever test his mettle. Fans won't be surprised that the killer is linked to the unresolved murders of Hope to Die or that Elaine and Scudder may become the fiend's target. The narrative smoothly shifts between Scudder's point-of-view and the thoughts and actions of the killer, whose ingenuity, daring and pure viciousness sear the pages. Aware of the danger but without a clue to the person behind the threat, Scudder and Elaine are forced into a protective siege while Scudder uses all his skills to probe the mystery. Series fans will welcome the familiar characters and places that have become such an important part of Scudder's universe: TJ, Mick Ballou, Grogan's Bar, the AA meeting spots. Add them together with some brilliant twists and one gets a thrilling, satisfying concoction brewed by a master storyteller in top form.
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Block, like so many successful mystery writers, is a proven commodity. With a shelf full of awards (including four Edgars, four Shamus Awards, two Maltese Falcon Awards, the Nero Wolfe Award, and Grandmaster status from the Mystery Writers of America), he’s established his mastery of riveting plots, compelling characters, and whip-smart dialogue. So what surprises does the 16th Matt Scudder mystery hold? Reviewers note the progression (or regression) towards the darker side of noir fiction, especially in the gruesome actions of the serial killer. And while the gore might be reason enough to keep faint-hearted readers away, a few critics find the serial killer too flat to be believable. More of a good thing might not bring effusive praise, but it’s sure to satisfy Block fans.
Copyright © 2004 Phillips & Nelson Media, Inc.
