Bad Business

By Robert B. Parker

I listened to the audiobook version of this book, once again read perfectly by Joe Mantegna. Even though it's redundant to review Parker's novels anymore (they're all interesting and engaging with witty prose), I'll just give a brief overview of this Spenser novel.

One thing I really appreciate about Parker's writing, and the Spenser series especially, is that it's easy to read them out of order and not get lost. For example, this is an earlier Spenser novel, occuring before many of the other's that I've already read. I had no trouble picking up this one and wrapping my head around what was happening. Parker gives enough details—and just enough—that the reader is never lost, even if he's missed a few books in the series or, like me, skips around. This is perfect for me because I usually can't read the Parker books in order: I have to wait for them to be available at the local library (Parker's audiobooks are very popular).

For example: Spenser and his sweetheart, Susan, often talk about the time she ran off West with another man. She realizes she made a mistake, ends up in trouble and Spenser had to go save her. I don't know what book this occured in or the details of the event. But I don't have to. Parker provides enough details so I can follow what happens even though I've never read the novel that covers the adventure. I don't even know what book it happens in. But I'm never lost when they discuss it.

This time, Spenser is hired to gather evidence on a client's husband's infidelity. When he eventually winds up dead, Spenser starts investigating his employer, a large energy trader, reminiscent of Enron. He uncovers some shading dealings and tries to unravel the mess. People start dying as he pokes around. Once again, an engaging and interesting mystery that kept me guessing. Just when I was sure I knew who the "bad guy" was, Spenser uncovered evidence that exonerated him.

I was surprised at Parker's in-depth knowledge of accounting practices and scams. While I know he probably did a bit of research, since the plot revolves around a certain illegal accounting practice, I can't beleive he didn't know something about it already before writing this book. Or perhaps he researched the practice before coming up with the plot, but that seems unlikely. How often do people research random things hoping that something worthwhile of a plot will pop out?

Appearing in this story are several recurring Spenser-verse characters, including Hawk, Vinnie Morris, Susan and Pearl.

Another good read (or listen). As always, I'm always disappointed when the book ends, because I want the fun to go on. Sigh...

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• My review of Back Story
• My review of Cold Service
• My review of Sea Change
• My review of Widow's Walk
• My review of Now and Then

External links

• Parker's page on the book
• Bad Business on Wikipedia