‘The past is present and the present has to deal with the past’ might be a catch phrase for this intricately plotted novel. While it will certainly satisfy readers who like to figure it out, or guess ‘who done it’, it was the characters point of view I found most interesting. For one, superiors and other agencies are not the enemy but helpful resources. Two real people lead real lives.

            Virgil is a detective working for Mr. Sanford’s other character Lucas Davenport. For Virgil being a detective is a job. You have hours of work and hours off. And while not a nine to five guy, when there’s nothing to do on a case your off. For Virgil, three divorces and looking for number 4, time off means pursing his social life.

            Mr. Sandford  has successfully created a real world story where complicated people pursue multiple goals, personal and business, a solid mystery and  interesting characters. 

            I like the Lucas Davenport stories and I liked this one about Virgil Flowers. You should too.