Now
& Then ,
by Robert Parker (Read by Joe Mantegna)
The author's favorite hero, Spenser, a Boston
private investigator, is back in this story. Spenser accepts
a job he normally would reject when an FBI agent asks him to
find out if his wife is cheating on him. What appears to be
a simple case of a wife having an affair turns into a complicated
case involving murders and an anti-government group that the
FBI is seeking. Susan, Spenser's girl friend, plays an important
role in this story. Because Susan is a psychologist and the
killer is one of her patients, Spenser cannot get Susan to discuss
what the killer's intentions are because of the doctor-patient
privacy code. As a result, the killer tries to use her to force
Spenser to turn over evidence, but Spenser's friends, Hawk Vinnie
and Chollo, step in to protect her. The story has many thrilling
and intriguing events that hold the listener's interest through
to its conclusion.
The humor in the conversations
between Hawk and Spenser and Susan and Spenser is, as usual,
enjoyable. Although they kid one another, it is obvious that
they share a deep and respectful concern for each other. Robert
Parker is able to craft stories with intricate plots and engaging
characters, and this is one of his best. Usually the tough
guy, Spenser reveals an appealing weak spot when he remembers
Susan's affair and identifies with his betrayed client. Joe
Mantegna, the noted actor, is the perfect narrator for a Spenser
novel, because he brings just the right degree of humor to
the tense situations, whether they're dangerous events or
emotional confrontations.
Whether you've read or listened
to 30 Parker novels or none, this is one not to be missed.
Now & Then is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Set in today's uncertain world, Parker introduces new opportunities
for crime, danger and conspiracy, giving the listener even
more terrors to consider. Coupled with thoroughly likeable
characters who behave in ordinary ways in extraordinary circumstances,
it's a combination that promises and delivers first-rate enjoyment.
John
Mormon
2/8/08
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