Book Review: Nobody Runs Forever

Reviewed By: Luke Croll - RAM

Nobody Runs Forever     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Richard Stark
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Hard Boiled
Series: Parker # 23
Mysterious Press, November 2004, 295 pages

In Richard Stark's latest novel, master criminal Parker is again involved in a robbery. When a clandestine meeting goes wrong, the group of criminals have to flee, but Parker finds himself caught up in a plan to rob a bank. However, with shaky information and flaky partners, it looks as though there could be troubled waters ahead for Parker.

Yet again, Richard Stark has produced another fun novel. Parker's plans lurch from crisis to crisis, as events seem to conspire against him. Stark throws bounty hunters, tenacious cops and much more into the mix, creating a fast and action-packed novel. Parker's wry comments and humour give the story a sense of levity, and the reader will soon forget that they are actually supporting an anti-hero who is committing crimes.

At nearly 300 pages, the book is very short and the reader will long to read more about Parker's adventures. With such a fast pace, it takes no time at all to devour the book. In another pleasant touch, the story is narrated from various points of view. Not only do we get to hear from Parker, the other players in the story contribute their perspective on events as well, making the novel all the richer.

Once again, Stark has not disappointed. A very enjoyable tale and I look forward to reading about Parker again soon.

Luke Croll - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Luke Croll - RAM

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