This is the longest one yet! Susan’s still in Cali and Spenser gets an odd message from her, explaining that Hawk’s in jail and they’re both in trouble. Off to a super intriguing start!

Spenser goes against an organized crime unit and dirty cops, far from home with not very much money. He calls in help from Rachel Wallace, which is fun. …

It’s interesting because as Hawk points out, Susan keeps both men human. With Susan on the line, the reader is given a very clear view of who these men might be without her and some sort of values system. They’re cold-blooded killing and more, in their pursuit. Makes for non-stop action.

There’s a surprise regarding Susan/Spenser’s relationship here—I won’t spoil it.

**Overall:


5 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Character(s) introduced in this one:
Jerry Costigan
Richard Costigan

Returned from another: Dixon


Audio:
This narrator … is okay. While he does NOT bother with a Boston accent, there is a vibe to his vintage-y sound and being 5 books in now, I’m getting used to him. :)



First edition cover:





Spenser Reading Order:

1. The Godwulf Manuscript (1973)
2. God Save the Child (1974)
3. Mortal Stakes (1975)
4. Promised Land (1976)
5. The Judas Goat (1978)
6. Looking for Rachel Wallace (1980)
7. Early Autumn (1980)
8. A Savage Place (1981)
9. Ceremony (1982)
10. The Widening Gyre (1983)
11. Valediction (1984)
12. A Catskill Eagle (1985)
13. Taming a Seahorse (1986)
14. Pale Kings and Princes (1987)
15. Crimson Joy (1988)
16. Playmates (1989)
17. Stardust (1990)
18. Pastime (1991)
19. Double Deuce (1991)
20. Paper Doll (1993)
21. Walking Shadow (1994)
22. Thin Air (1995)
23. Chance (1996)
24. Small Vices (1997)
25. Sudden Mischief (1998)
26. Hush Money (1999)
27. Hugger Mugger (2000)
28. Potshot (2001)
29. Widow's Walk (2002)
30. Back Story (2003)
31. Bad Business (2004)
32. Cold Service (2005)
33. School Days (2005)
34. Dream Girl (2006)
35. Now and Then (2007)
36. Rough Weather (2008)
36.5 Chasing the Bear (2009)
37. The Professional (2009)
38. Painted Ladies (2010)
39. Sixkill (2011)
39.5 Silent Night (2013)
Spenser: A Mysterious Profile (2022)

continued in the series by Ace Atkins