Winter Prey, the fifth installment in John Sandford's Lucas Davenport series, weaves the frosty, unforgiving winter setting into the narrative, almost becoming a character itself. As the story commences, Lucas Davenport, nursing his wounds, seeks refuge in his rural Wisconsin cabin after leaving his detective career behind. Fate swiftly intervenes when a neighboring family falls victim to a savage murder. The local sheriff, unequipped for such a heinous crime, calls upon Lucas for aid. Restless and eager to assist, Lucas assumes the role of deputy and dives headfirst into solving the case.
Dubbed "The Iceman," the murderer is fervently guarding his secrets, resorting to violence to maintain his cover. As the body count escalates, Lucas desperately seeks any evidence to help break into the case. His investigation points him toward a local doctor, Weather Karkinnen, a woman who seems perfectly matched to Davenport's witty intellect. Fans of the Prey series will recognize the burgeoning connection between the two characters, hinting at something deeper to come. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that this small town harbors more secrets than anticipated, placing Lucas in one of the most perilous situations of his career.
Winter Prey, written in 1993, reflects attitudes toward homosexuality that, by today's standards, would be considered homophobic. Comparing it to Sandford's more recent works reveals an evolution in both his writing style and social perspectives. Still, it's essential to acknowledge that the book is a product of its time, with certain aspects better left in the era they were created.
That said, Winter Prey reveals a notable evolution in Sandford's storytelling. Lucas Davenport's character gains depth, and the author embraces the dry humor that's become a signature element of his writing. The mystery is compelling, with the antagonist's identity hidden, allowing readers to uncover the truth alongside Davenport. The introduction of a love interest also adds a layer of depth and connection to Davenport's character, offering promise for further character development in subsequent novels. Ultimately, Winter Prey establishes the framework that has allowed the Prey series to endure and evolve into the present day.
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(2023, 90)
John Sandford is not an author I have read, although I used to read others like him. I enjoy books with dry humor. Nice review!
ReplyDeleteHis books are great fun!
DeleteI do not think I've read this author. Wonderful review!
ReplyDeleteI think you'd really enjoy his Virgil Flowers series!
DeleteOoh...this sounds like a suspenseful one. And I do love that winter setting!
ReplyDeleteIt was a good one! I loved that he kept the identity of the killer secret. He often reveals the identity early on in his more recent books.
DeleteI love this kind of book. This sounds like it would be good.
ReplyDeleteIt makes for a great page-turner!
DeleteThis sounds like something I'd enjoy! I like that there's a setup for a possible romance, too!
ReplyDeleteHaving read the later books in the series, it has been fun seeing how the relationships began.
DeleteI love mysteries set in small towns, so this appeals to me! Great review! :)
ReplyDeleteThis one takes the character away from his hometown, so it adds a fun layer to the story.
DeleteSanford is one of those authors I've seen around forever but have never read. This one sounds like a new chapter (no pun intended) for Sanford with the humor and the (possible) romance.
ReplyDeleteThe Virgil Flowers books by him are some of my go-to crime reads, but this series has really grown on me.
DeleteIt can be interesting reading older books. I know I have been surprised by some (not classic old, but older, like this book), but it's good you were able to reconcile that it was written at a different time and that the author has evolved.
ReplyDeleteReading these older books really show how much the world has evolved for the better!
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