Review: Little Scarlet

The publication of an Easy Rawlins novel is always an event for celebration, and with Little Scarlet; Mosely provides us with a powerful treat. It is little wonder that former president Bill Clinton is a fan of the Easy Rawlins' series, and this latest chapter is in my opinion, the best, because it delves back to a politically sensitive time - the 1965 LA race riots in the Watt's District. I found it interesting that George Pelecanos ploughed a similar furrow last year with his 'Hard Revolution' [set against the 1968 Washington Riots]; and described Little Scarlett as a Masterwork. There is however little in common between the two books apart from a backdrop of racial-friction and community tension.

This time Rawlins is asked by the LAPD to help them in their investigation of the rape and murder of Nola Payne, a redhead nicknamed 'Little Scarlet'. Rawlins is naturally nervous talking with 'The Man' when all around him the smoke and destruction of the recent riots still cling to his world. Rawlins realizes that the LAPD are worried that speculation about Little Scarlet's rape and murder could re-ignite the tinderbox of emotion that smolders around them all. While Rawlins searchs for the truth, he finds himself helping his unstable sidekick Mouse and Mouse's girlfirned, as well as helping strangers that cross his path. The trail is littered with problems for Rawlins to solve, and again we see Rawlins as almost an unconventional community-worker. The plot is marbled by social commentary and how people can make a positive difference for their community, even when fear and hostility circle like desert vultures above the line of smoke. Acute observation of the tensions between communities that make up1960's Los Angeles, with a subtlety that ensures that the plot moves forward without delay. Rawlins investigation impinges on 'Little Scarlet's' married white lover, who Easy realizes is no killer, but clearing his name proves more difficult than even he would realize. A masterwork from Mosely - Pelecanos is right, this is one hell of a novel. Highly recommended.

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Ali Karim - RAM

Book Review: Little Scarlet