One of the best of the Scudder mysteries. The story is very well told, and it establishes significant background for later volumes in the series. ( )

I don't know how I missed the Matt Scudder novels for so long. I've read three in the last few weeks and am absolutely hooked. Clever plots, first class detection, excellent dialog all make for a satisfying read. I will be adding additional titles to my LibraryThing catalog as I find them. Recommended for those who love mysteries and detection. ( )

This is the tenth in the series of Matt Scudder novels from Block, and they keep on getting better. The subsidiary characters are starting to have lives of their own, and Scudder, the ex-police, ex-drunk, maverick detective is getting more complex a personality with each novel. This one sees him finally establishing a firm relationship with ex-hooker Elaine, which makes a good sub-plot. The main story this time is the hunt for a particularly gruesome kidnapper and serial killer whose latest victim is the wife of a rich drug dealer. The dealer pays the ransom demand, and his wife is returned to him - dismembered! He can't go to the police, so persuades Scudder to take up the chase to avenge his wife's death. Absolutely gripping. ( )