"Storm Prey" by John Sandford

Once more, the joy of reviewing a book that's not only excellent, but WELL into its series.  This is the 20th in the Lucas Davenport Mysteries, and if this novel's any indication, there won't be an end any time soon.  I know lots of readers and reviewers take umbrage with those authors who churn out novel after novel in a series, but honestly, I LOVE it (as long as they continue to be good).  I love revisiting familiar characters, seeing newly developing situations and developments between them, fresh characters popping in to shake things up.  To me it's like revisiting an old friend.

I can't say that's the case here, as this is the first of the Davenport books I've read, but this one makes me want to go and start from the very beginning, and in a series with 20 books, that's as high a recommendation as I know how to give.

For you thrill a minute reader-types (you know who you are), this novel will definitely do it for you.  There's no shortage of action and tight plotting here.  You will be swept along for the ride, only realizing later that this is better than average stuff.  It's the kind of stuff that sticks with you after you close the book and put it away.

And right there is the recommendation that you I-could-take-'em-or-leave-'em thriller types need.  The characters are sharply and skillfully depicted, the dialogue's like silk and the action's BELIEVABLE (I know, right?).  This is the series that could change your mind about the whole genre!

So, give it a try.  Take it for a test ride.  What's the worst that could happen?  You already don't like thrillers, right?  And the best-case scenario?  You've found another author to love, with many, many novels in front of you before you exit the series.

As for you thriller lovers... you know what to do.  If Sandford's new to you, Storm Prey's an excellent foray into his world.  You can grab a copy here.