I really don't know why Ross Thomas is now a forgotten writer of the 70s and 80s. His work is phenomenal. With prose that is clean, spare and witty, he understands exactly what he wants you to see and perceive and what he feels you're not ready for yet. His characters are not saints, but neither are they totally sinners. Beyond the hooker with a heart of gold though. Way beyond. There's no sentimentality here.

This in some respects is a typical con-artist story in the sense that you can't trust anyone and you have to pay attention when characters appear. I did and while one bad guy wasn't a surprise the other eluded me and surprised me when revealed.

I loved the fact that the town was so poor, industry and tourism deprived that the Mayor and the Chief of Police hide criminals in order to raise money. While they did lie, cheat and manipulate themselves into their offices, they didn't keep all of the money for themselves. No, they actually did make the town better in spite of it being close to a federal prison. The mayor is one devious chick. I didn't like her, but I did sort of admire her methods.

I do wonder what's going to happen to the Judge. He was set up and did the time and now his career is ruined. Ditto for Vines. But they weren't angels either and I'm sure they'll figure out something. Especially since the Judge has hooked up with the new widow in town. Guys like that always land on their feet. ( )