by Ace Atkins
Part of Spenser, book 21
First published 1995
Spenser watches an actor collapse with a bullet in his chest during a theatrical performance in a rundown waterfront community. The play was terrible, but someone took their criticism too far. The Boston private investigator teams up with his partner Hawk to dig into Port City's criminal underworld. They discover the shooting involves more than artistic disagreement. The case pulls Spenser into the theatrical world where drama extends far beyond the stage. As bodies pile up and threats escalate, Spenser must navigate between actors, criminals, and corrupt officials. The investigation tests both his detective skills and his relationship with Hawk as they uncover a conspiracy that reaches into the highest levels of the community.
Genres: mystery, crime, thriller, detective, action
Vibes: dark, fast-paced, suspenseful
Tropes: conspiracy, found-family
Setting: Port City, Boston
281 pages · Mass Market Paperback · G.P. Putnam's Sons