Book Review: Hugger Mugger

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Hugger Mugger     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Robert B. Parker
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Private Investigator
Series: Spenser # 27
Putnam, Apr 2000, $23.95, 320 pp.

After working a series of pro bono cases for his girlfriend Susan and his friend Hawke, Spenser accepts a paying job that will substantially reduce his debt. Walter Clive and his daughter Penny own Three Fillies Stables in Lamarr, Georgia. Walter is especially proud of his young thoroughbred HUGGER MUGGER who experts think is the next Secretariat. However, in spite of top security, an unidentified assailant has slipped inside the stable area and killed one horse and damaged two other steeds.

Walter hires Spenser to come down from Boston to discover who the assassin is before any other horse, but especially HUGGER MUGGER, becomes the next victim. Spenser begins his inquiries with those in constant contact with the horses. However, before he completes his assignment, someone kills Walter and Penny fires Spenser. In turn Walter’s mistress Tully hires Spenser to find out whom killed her paramour and deprived her son of his rightful inheritance.

Spenser novels have entertained readers for twenty-five years. Fans enjoy the sleuth’s dry wit, code of honor, and obstinate nature. His latest adventure HUGGER MUGGER is one of the best in years. The story line has deep characterizations and uncanny insight into the behavior of the horse racing aristocracy. Additionally, Spenser is outside the comfort zone of his beloved Boston while swimming upstream in the Deep South. The fast-paced story line filled with action and a multi-player cast proves Robert B. Parker still has the cynic’s touch of irony that provides the best in reading entertainment for private detective fans.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner