"Another Great Book in Burke's Robicheaux Series"

Dave Robicheaux, the alcoholic deputy sheriff of New Iberia, Louisiana, is back with a new series of murders to solve. This is the latest of twenty-one mysteries written by Burke, not all about Dave Robicheaux. The old characters including Tripod make an appearance but it is not required that the reader knows all the former stories. Each of these novels is a self-contained story.

Part of the story involves an old southern plantation and its field boss, Legion, who enjoyed raping the black woman who worked the fields. We learn that he has had at least one child by one of the woman. This added texture makes the story more gripping and absorbing. The local crime family and its history also adds depth to the story. When one has finished this book, you feel like you too have lived in the bayous of Louisiana.

Burke has the greatest ability to use character development and dialog to make the reader feel a part of the story and town where it is set. Dave goes to AA meetings and even the twelve steps are accurate.

This book is a compelling read and will easily fill a day or two. If you start with this book, you will feel compelled to visit the used bookstore to find the earlier books.

John Wachsmith

Reviewed by Maudeen Wachsmith
Posted June 18, 2002