A Book A Week

I've been a devoted fan of John Sandford's crime novels ever since I first discovered his Virgil Flowers series in college. Sandford’s signature blend of sharp humor and breakneck plotting instantly hooked me, making Flowers one of my favorite protagonists in the genre. Back then, he was releasing a Virgil Flowers novel annually, alongside a new installment in his more famous, and arguably more popular, Prey series, featuring Lucas Davenport.

In recent years, as Sandford continues writing into his 80s, he’s shifted to a single yearly release that brings both heroes together in the same book. After taking a break from this approach last year, Lethal Prey marks the return of Davenport and Flowers as a duo, so I was eager to get my hands on it. Fortunately, Sandford’s publisher sent me a copy, meaning I didn’t have to wait long to dive in.

In an age obsessed with internet sleuthing and true crime, Lara Grandfelt is wagering $5 million that someone can finally solve her twin sister Doris’s decades-old murder. Brutally stabbed over 20 years ago, Doris’s body was found in a dense thicket at the edge of an urban park, but her killer was never caught. Now, facing her own mortality after a cancer diagnosis, Lara is determined to uncover the truth, offering a fortune to anyone who can bring the murderer to justice.

Lara knows the flood of online sleuths chasing her $5 million reward will need oversight. Enter Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers, reluctantly called in to verify leads as a favor to a politician Lara generously supports. Skeptical of crowdsourced crime-solving, they dismiss the frenzy as internet noise. That is until a blogger uncovers the murder weapon. As real clues emerge, so does a chilling truth: the killer is watching, adapting, and staying one step ahead. With every new revelation broadcast online, Lucas and Virgil must race to solve the case before the killer claims more victims—including themselves.

I've come to take great comfort in the familiarity of John Sandford's writing, and Lethal Prey, the 35th installment in his longest-running series, delivers plenty of what I love. Once again, Sandford pairs his best characters to solve a decades-old case, using his signature approach—giving readers insight into the killer’s perspective while letting his heroes race to uncover the truth. It’s a formula he’s mastered and one I always enjoy.

That said, this installment didn’t hit quite as hard as previous ones. The sharp, witty banter between Davenport and Flowers felt sparser, and the investigation's momentum stalled in places. But what really lessened the impact for me was the abrupt ending. The story simply stopped, leaving a major cliffhanger rather than a satisfying resolution. Even so, I’ll be first in line for the next book. Sandford has a proven track record in crime fiction, and a few missteps won’t keep me from diving into whatever he writes next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2025, 26)

April has proven to be a month abundant with new releases from several of my favorite authors. The sheer volume of titles on my April TBR has necessitated some rationing. While I'd typically devour each of these releases as they publish, I'm only just now getting to some of my most anticipated reads. Among these releases, John Sandford stands out as one of my top choices in the crime genre. I've been an avid fan since I discovered his Virgil Flowers series over a decade ago. I subsequently delved into his Prey series featuring Lucas Davenport and, more recently, his latest series featuring Davenport's daughter, Letty.

Despite reaching the age of 80, Sandford continues to maintain a prolific writing pace, typically releasing at least one new novel each year. Still, he has slowed down his practice of updating each series independently, instead opting to have his main characters collaborate in a single story under the Prey banner. Toxic Prey, his newest release, marks an evolution in this approach, as it sees Lucas teaming up with his daughter Letty for the first time in a gripping and pulse-pounding tale.

The book begins with Letty Davenport embarking on a journey to Oxford to rendezvous with British secret agent Alec Hawkins. Despite an immediate mutual attraction, their focus swiftly shifts to the task at hand: investigating the disappearance of Dr. Lionell Scott. Suspected to be residing somewhere in the United States, fears abound that his research into contagious viruses may have taken a sinister turn. Conversations with his former mentors reveal Scott's deep interest in the Gaia theory, which posits that all living organisms collectively form and sustain a synergistic system. According to Scott, humanity's unchecked proliferation has disrupted this balance, posing a threat to the very fabric of Gaia. His proposed solution eerily echoes that of Marvel's Thanos: a drastic reduction in the human population. 

With their suspicions seemingly validated, Letty and Hawkins return to the United States, intent on locating Scott and thwarting his malevolent scheme. Recognizing the formidable challenge of finding an elusive fugitive, Letty calls upon her father, the seasoned investigator Lucas Davenport, for assistance. With Davenport's expertise at their disposal, the team embarks on a perilous mission to prevent the catastrophic spread of a mutated virus that threatens the very existence of life as we know it.

Toxic Prey sets the bar for high stakes in the long-running series, with the threat of a deadly and contagious virus looming over the narrative. Just five years ago, the notion of such a scenario might have seemed like pure science fiction. However, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the storyline takes on a chilling plausibility. Unlike the typical "hunt and arrest" formula of previous installments, this time, the investigation is fraught with the constant fear of an active virus, leading to a shoot-to-kill and containment-at-all-costs approach.

Given the weighty subject matter and the absence of Davenport's usual sparring partner, Virgil Flowers, the trademark witty banter that fans have come to expect from the series is notably toned down in this book. Nevertheless, the intense urgency of the situation and the compelling father-daughter dynamic between the main protagonists ensure that Toxic Prey remains a gripping and fast-paced read. With Sandford already hinting at the return of Flowers in the next installment, anticipation is already building for what promises to be another thrilling addition to the series.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 32)

I was initially hesitant to dive into this book. Although I've been a devoted fan of John Sandford since discovering his Virgil Flowers series, and I've been gradually making my way through both the earliest and most recent books in his iconic Lucas Davenport series, I felt a bit overwhelmed by the prospect of adding a new series to my already extensive reading list. Despite my initial reservations, the recent announcement of a new Davenport novel featuring a collaboration with Letty, his daughter, prompted me to reconsider. With the anticipation of reading the upcoming release, I finally decided to explore Letty's debut appearance with The Investigator.

When we are introduced to Letty Davenport, the 24-year-old is on the verge of resigning from her job in the office of a U.S. Senator. Not wanting to lose such a promising young talent, her boss offers her a unique proposition—to become an investigator for the office. While she won't have formal judicial authority, she'll be armed and have her own modest, closet-sized office. Seeing this as an opportunity to follow in her father's law enforcement footsteps, Letty agrees to the role. Her inaugural task involves probing recent oil thefts in various small Texas towns. The focus isn't solely on the stolen oil but on who is selling it and what they do with the proceeds. Rumors suggest an unsavory militia group may be involved. Letty's mission is to uncover if the money is indeed going to them and, if so, discern their intentions.

Despite being familiar with handling firearms and navigating tense situations, Letty is still a newcomer to the job. In collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, she's paired with veteran investigator John Kaiser. Neither party is thrilled about being thrust into a collaboration with each other. Still, the odd couple will have to set aside their differences as they delve into the situation in Texas. When the case turns deadly, they realize they’re onto something bigger. The militia group has initiated a potentially explosive plan, and time is running out.

In The Investigator, John Sandford once again showcases his prowess in creating compelling thrillers, seamlessly blending tense scenarios, well-drawn characters, and clever humor. Introducing a new character, Letty, who is both female and younger than Sandford's usual protagonists, adds a fresh dynamic to his storytelling. Letty's intelligence, sass, and overall appeal make her a compelling lead. While her confidence and wisdom may occasionally seem beyond her experience level, the captivating interplay between her perspective and the subjects of her investigation overrides any minor concerns. Sandford delivers another successful series, leaving me eagerly anticipating more.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2024, 11)

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.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 90)

One of my absolute favorite protagonists in the realm of crime fiction has to be Virgil Flowers, a creation of John Sandford. I first encountered this character during college, and I've eagerly devoured every new installment in his adventures ever since. While Sandford's pace of releasing new books has somewhat slowed recently, he now teams up this character with his other immensely popular creation, Lucas Davenport. Their latest collaboration, Judgment Prey, marks the third book where both characters appear together. I've been fortunate enough to receive copies of Sandford's latest works directly from his publisher, and this newest one was no exception. Staying true to his distinctive style, Judgment Prey is a riveting murder mystery enriched by the witty banter and dynamic between Flowers and Davenport.

The book begins with a harrowing scene: the ruthless execution of a federal judge and his two young sons. The killer shadowed the family back to their home following a basketball game and in a chilling act, shot them in cold blood. When the judge's wife arrived just moments later, she was met with the devastating sight of her husband and sons lying lifeless on the floor while her infant baby cried in the background. The heinousness of the murder sends shockwaves through the community. Given the high-profile nature of the crime and its victim, authorities are determined to bring the perpetrator to justice.

Enter Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers. Both men are still recovering from the harrowing conclusion of their previous case, an ordeal that almost cost them their lives. Davenport, in particular, is taking an extended break to mend his wounds. Meanwhile, Flowers is engrossed in writing his second novel. The last thing either of them needs is a new case. Fate, however, has other plans. Davenport's proximity to the crime scene leads him to offer his insights, and before long, the irresistible urge to uncover the truth takes hold. He quickly summons his good friend Flowers to join him in the investigation. Together, they will delve into the lives of criminals, the leaders of dubious charities, and even the judge's grieving widow. They will spare no effort in uncovering the identity of the perpetrator behind this brutal and heart-wrenching crime.

Returning to Sandford's characters is always a delightful experience. The dynamic duo of Virgil Flowers and Lucas Davenport consistently delivers a thrilling and unexpectedly comedic reading adventure. Some of the witty exchanges between these two had me in stitches. Judgment Prey, as the 33rd installment in the long-standing Prey series, successfully hits all the essential marks. Sandford's writing exudes a sense of pure enjoyment, resulting in an engaging page-turner.

Could the mystery's plot have been more tightly woven? Undoubtedly. In fact, this particular installment seemed to struggle with occasional plot meandering, as if Sandford himself was uncertain about the story's direction. Nevertheless, the narrative remains firmly anchored by its charismatic protagonists, rendering even the most implausible plot twists relatively inconsequential. This is top-notch popcorn thriller writing at its finest. I'll gladly continue immersing myself in these narratives for as long as Sandford continues to write them.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 63)

There's a kind of fog that exists in my brain after I finish a really good book. I get to the point where I don't want to read something too similar to the book I just completed, but I also struggle to find anything new that will catch my interest. I've been in that very place again this week. Three new books were started, but none of them were fitting my current mood. It seemed as if I was in a dreaded reading slump. Whenever this happens, there's only one thing I can do to get my reading mojo back in order. I fall back into comfort reading. In this instance, that means I picked up the next book in John Sandford's Prey series. Sandford's penchant for intriguing mysteries, brisk pace, and dry humor were exactly what I needed to propel me through this slump. 

As the previous novel Eyes of Prey closed, Lucas Davenport was at the end of a long rope. His attempt to rekindle any type of personal life ended in tragedy, and he was forced to resign from his position with the police department. The only good thing to come out of that ending was that Davenport was able to put the sadistic serial killer Dr. Mike Bekker behind bars. This novel opens with Davenport trying to put the pieces of his life back together. As he struggles with the hardships of his personal and professional misfortunes, he receives the kind of news that he's dreaded to hear. Mike Bekker has escaped from prison and has his sights set on Davenport. 

Silent Prey, the fourth novel in John Sandford's series, sees the author place his protagonist in a desperate fish-out-of-water situation. Davenport is thrust from his home in Minneapolis to New York. By placing the character in a new city, Sandford forces him to navigate the case without the comforts of familiarity that he had in the previous books. While this was a fun spin on the character, I did find myself missing his supporting cast. Sandford chose to bring back the villain who was quite a force to reckon with in the previous novel. In this second outing, though, I found him to be less threatening. One outing was probably enough. Beyond my minor quips about story choices, I easily devoured this book. Four novels in, I can see why the Prey series has maintained its popularity. This was the exact book I needed to force me out of my reading slump. I'll have the fifth book on standby for whenever the inevitable next slump arises. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 25)

Like many readers, I'm faced with the eternal problem of having more books to read than I'll ever have time to finish. There's just not enough time in the day to work through my extensive backlog of titles. Even worse off are the countless series that I've neglected to stay current on. With a few long-running crime series numbering 30+ installments, it seems like an insurmountable task to keep up with them. Determined not to let these series fall by the wayside, I've decided to start working on one at a time. First up is John Sandford's Prey series. I've read and enjoyed the more recent novels, and started the first book several years ago. The second book, read last year, didn't hold up to the standards of what is culturally acceptable today, but I've decided to give book number three a go. 

This go-around sees Lucas Davenport face off against two bad guys. The villainous duo comes to an agreement akin to the classic Strangers on a Train setup, wherein they each commit a murder to benefit the other. As is often the case in a partnership of this kind, one half of the group is much more cunning than the other, and he's the one pulling the strings in a terrifying direction. The other man becomes more of the muscle than the brain, exacting the mastermind's evil agenda with ghastly precision. From the get-go, their carefully laid plan goes slightly awry leaving the duo scrambling to stay ahead of the police who are hot on their trail. Davenport is working through a serious bout of depression. As such, he won't let anything, not even the law, get in his way of catching these killers. 

This is the darkest of the Prey series so far. John Sandford has imagined a killer who is as cunning as he is evil. It's a combination that makes for quick reading and ever-tightening suspense. The reader is privy to the identity of the killers from the very start of the book, making the thrill of reading more about seeing Davenport chase down the clues and come to the conclusion that we already know. Nevertheless, I couldn't put this one down. Beyond having the best villain thus far, Eyes of Prey sees Sandford begin to dig deeper into the emotions of his main character. By focussing on Davenport's debilitating depression and reckless response to it, Sandford allows his character to be more than just an action hero. He's becoming a person whom the reader can actually care about. That makes this my favorite of the first three Prey books. The end leaves plenty of room for the story to continue, so I can't wait to keep reading this series. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2023, 11)

What's the longest-running series that you read? In the crime fiction genre, establishing a well-received character and spawning a series featuring that character is like capturing lightning in a bottle. Not every detective is shaped up to star in a series. John Sandford's Lucas Davenport is one who has withstood the test of time. The first book to feature the character, Rules of Prey, was published back in 1989, and the 32nd installment Righteous Prey released earlier this year. I've read and enjoyed both books, but I haven't routinely kept up with the series. In fact, I've only read that first novel and the latest two releases. Needless the say the Lucas Davenport of thirty years ago is quite different from the character that appears in Sandford's series today. I've enjoyed Sandford's writing enough that I decided to venture back in time again and pick up the second book in the Prey series. 

Murder is a grisly affair no matter how you shake it. The brutal execution of a slumlord in Minneapolis, an up-and-coming politician in New York, and a judge in Oklahoma City would be newsworthy in their own right, but it is the similarities in each instance that make the murders all the more unsettling. Each of the victims' throats has been ritualistically slashed with a type of knife most commonly used in Native American ceremonies. The killer seems driven by a primal force to murder. Not even those closest to him will be able to stop his reign of terror. 

Lucas Davenport, an investigator with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, is called to the case when the first murder occurs. He's got a few things working against him from the very start. For one, his usual strategy of planting himself within the community and working with his contacts to gather information is narrowed by the close-knit Native American community's unwillingness to work with an outsider. He's also got a few distractions on the home front. He's still in a relationship with the mother of his young daughter, but Lucas's eyes have strayed to that of a New York cop who is also investigating the murders. As his personal life begins to tangle, the killer and those who are driving the crimes set their target upon him. He'll have to overcome every obstacle to make it out alive and bring the murderer to justice. 

Books can be seen as something of a time capsule to the time in which they were written. Shadow Prey, the second Davenport novel by John Sandford, is certainly an example of this idea. Davenport is still in his raw form. Sandford works to give him some higher stakes in this book, but I could tell that the character lacked the confidence that he owns in the more recent installments. The underbaked elements of the character aside, it is the cultural ramifications of this book that really took me out of the entertainment. The main plot centers around some troubling stereotypes about Native Americans that I found to be alarmingly out of date. Sandford toys with a few social commentary moments, but they just ring so wrong to my modern ears. Having read his more recent works, it is clear that Sandford, like many of us, has evolved with the times. Still, some of the more blatant elements of this novel are pretty tough to reconcile with. There are the bones of a solid thriller here, but I feel this story may be one that is better left in the past. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 59)

If you ask me for my recommendation of a great detective series, I won't hesitate to suggest John Sandford's Virgil Flowers series. Through 12 novels Flowers has used his unconventional methods and charming personality to solve some of the most challenging murder cases. Sandford is probably better known for his prolific Prey series featuring Lucas Davenport. The two characters have come in contact in previous books, but none more so than they did in the last Prey novel Ocean Prey. Sandford has slowed his output in recent years. Rather than deprive readers of either of their favorite heroes, he's elected to pair them up in the yearly Prey novel. Righteous Prey, the 32nd book in the long-running series, was provided to me by Sandford's publisher. It features the team-up of Davenport and Flowers in a chilling mystery that only they can solve. 

As the title would suggest, the murderers in the book kill for a 'righteous' cause. The group calls themselves The Five, and they have made it their mission to rid the world of deplorable people. The first victim to be killed is left with a number 1 on their forehead, a chilling label, and a sign that the killer may just be getting started. These fears are confirmed when an anonymous press release is revealed. In it, The Five take credit for the murder and pose quite a moral dilemma. You see, they are offering a large donation in cryptocurrency to a charity that relates to how the victim was perceived as a bad person. When victims number 2 and 3 appear in other parts of the country, each with their own accompanying press release and donation, law enforcement calls in reinforcements. Lucky for us, those reinforcements are Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers. 

Lucas has been a US Marshall for years. When he gets the call about The Five, he immediately thinks of his buddy Virgil from Minnesota's Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. The pair is hot off of a massive drug bust off the coast of Florida, but they've since gone their separate ways. Virgil has settled down with his wife and newborn twins and has recently submitted a pass at a novel. A new, quieter career could be on the horizon. When Lucas calls and requests his help, Virgil finds it hard to pass up the intrigue of such a complex murder case. With the blessing of his wife, Virgil teams up with Lucas to stop the serial killers before they can enact their cause on the next unsuspecting victim. 

Virgil Flowers is my favorite detective for a reason, and Righteous Prey continues to prove why. Sandford writes a complex mystery that shifts the POV between his main characters and the group of killers they are hunting. This gives the reader the benefit of knowing all the details of the crimes before the investigators do. Lucas and Virgil have a witty rapport, bringing comedy and lightness to an otherwise brutal story. Sandford delves into the cryptocurrency boom, imagining the darkest side of that world while never telling the reader what to think about it. In these highly politicized times, it is nice to be able to escape into a thriller that is timely but not taxing. The pace of the book is brisk, making for another unputdownable read from one of my go-to authors. The ending leaves a few questions as to the future of our heroes. I for one, can't wait to see what they do next. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2022, 43)

With so many books coming my way each year, it can be hard to devote time to reading a series. There are just so many books to read with never enough time to read them all.  This means that I usually don't keep up with a series beyond the first installment. However, when it comes to John Sandford's Virgil Flowers series, I can't help but look forward to the next novel. No matter what I'm supposed to be reading, I always carve out a few days to devour his latest. I was a bit surprised when Sandford's publisher sent me his latest novel featuring his other long-time hero Lucas Davenport. I've read the first novel to feature Davenport, but I've never kept up with the other 29 Prey novels. When I found out that Ocean Prey happened to feature Virgil Flowers too, all made sense, and I quickly began reading. 

The book opens with a bang. An off-duty Coast Guardsman stumbles upon a crime in action, just off the coast of Florida. A group of drug runners is pulling up large canisters from the ocean floor, filled with what has to be drugs. When the coast guard intervenes, a gunfight breaks out leaving 3 officers dead, the drug smuggling boat torched, drug-filled canisters on the bottom of the sea, and no real leads as to who was behind the crime. An FBI-led task force struggles with the case for weeks before they finally call in the support of US Marshall Lucas Davenport. Davenport has a reputation for discreetly blurring the lines between lawful investigation and downright intimidation, but one thing is certain. Davenport knows how to get results. 

As the full scope of the case unfolds, Davenport begins to worry that their task force is outmatched. A mid-novel ambush reveals those worries to be true, and Davenport is forced to call in more support. His old buddy from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Virgil Flowers is a natural choice. Flowers is about as unconventional of an investigator as they come. Flowers's hippy cowboy appearance and willingness to follow whatever unorthodox plan Davenport conceives makes him the perfect candidate to go undercover and infiltrate the suspected drug lords. His familiarity with boating and diving also makes him uniquely qualified to be exactly the kind of person the suspects are looking for. After all, there are still millions of dollars worth of drugs lying on the ocean floor. With the combined experience and wit of both Davenport and Flowers, justice just might come to fruition. 

With Ocean Prey John Sandford proves why he remains one of my favorite crime authors writing today. Despite not being as familiar with his Davenport character, I easily fell into the story and began rooting for him from the start. The addition of Virgil Flowers to the novel adds a welcomed change of pace to the second half of the story and serves to raise the stakes and suspense level. Still, I'd hesitate to actually call this book a Virgil Flowers novel. His appearance is more of an extended cameo to the Davenport story than anything else. Nevertheless, Sandford knows how to write a twisted thriller that keeps you on your toes until the very end. The underwater scenes in particular really kept the pages turning in a way that I haven't experienced in his writing before. Clever plotting combined with two of the most fun and intriguing heroes in modern crime fiction make Ocean Prey a worthy addition to both the Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers series. 

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2021, 15)

Its that time of year again. No, I'm not talking about fall this time. Time for the latest Virgil Flowers novel, of course! For over a decade now, I've read and enjoyed every Virgil Flowers novel written by John Sandford. Each fall, a new installment is released, and I spend the next few days glued to the book. For the past couple of years, I've been fortunate to receive a copy of the latest Flowers novel from Sandford's publisher, and this year I was happy to accept Bloody Genius to review. Once again, Sandford proves why Virgil Flowers is one of the most endearing heroes in modern crime fiction.

A prominent doctor/professor at the University of Minnesota is bludgeoned to death in the school library.  There are immediately more questions than answers. He wasn't in the library when it closed the night before, so how did he get in and why was he in there? The professor wasn't well-liked by his colleagues, professional rivals, or even his family, so there's no shortage of potential suspects. A man with three ex-wives who is a complete jerk to everyone he encounters isn't exactly getting the key to the city anytime soon. Still, a brazen murder on a busy college campus can't be ignored.

Enter Virgil Flowers, the quirky but effective investigator for the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Flowers's rough edges have started to smooth out since he began dating Frankie, a former suspect turned lover. The couple is expecting twins soon, and Flowers is struggling to balance his personal and professional responsibilities. He reluctantly begins investigating the murder, much to the chagrin of the local authorities and a female detective who has no trouble matching Virgil's dry wit. When all the potential suspects begin presenting solid alibis, Virgil is forced to dig deep and use his trademark unorthodox approach to bring justice and peace to the community.

At this point, Virgil Flowers may have actually eclipsed James Patterson's Alex Cross as my favorite detective in a crime series. With Bloody Genius, John Sandford continues to evolve his character in a way that is both natural and fun to read. Sandford bucks formula by placing his familiar character into new mysteries with different narrative paths in each book. Sometimes, the killer is known by the reader from the start, and the fun is in seeing Virgil discover what we already know. This time, we are in the dark with our hero, only discovering the murder when Virgil does. I truly did not see the ending coming! This is the twelfth novel in the series. While you don't have to read the previous books to understand this one, you'd be doing yourself a disservice by skipping ahead. Go ahead and start with the first book. If you're anything like me, you'll race through the series and be eagerly waiting for the next one.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2019, 34)

Each year, I eagerly await the release of John Sandford's latest Virgil Flowers novels. The series has become one of the few that I routinely keep track of. There's just something about Flower's off-kilter approach to crime fighting that makes the books must-read events. When I was offered an advanced copy of the eleventh and latest novel in the series, I eagerly accepted. It sat on my "to be read" list a bit longer than I anticipated, but the pages flew by as soon as I began reading it.

Typical to the Flower's series, Holy Ghost begins with a bit of an absurd set up. The local mayor of a small Minnesota town is shooting at the pervasive flies in his trailer. He and a couple other citizens are complaining about the downfall of the town. People just don't come here anymore, and the local businesses are beginning to crumble. Then they have a bright idea that is sure to change their fortunes.

Weeks later an apparition of the Virgin Mary conveniently appears at the local Catholic church. Just like that, the town's fortunes are improved. People from all over begin flocking from all over for the chance to witness another miracle. The mayor and his friends happened to open a general store of sorts directly across from the church a few weeks before the blessed appearance. Now the entire town is facing a revitalizing windfall. But a lone shooter seems to have it out for the town. A few weeks into the new found prosperity, two people have been shot.

Enter Virgil Flowers, the rough and tumble detective for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. His harder edges have been softened by his girlfriend Frankie. The couple is expecting their first child together, so Virgil is truly starting to settle down. Still, his unconventional methods and everyman personality still help him to solve the "hard ones". As the Virgil arrives in town, the shooter claims his first fatality, and the urgency of the case intensifies. The livelihood of an entire town depends on him.

With Holy Ghost, author John Sandford continues to fire on all cylinders with this series. He perfectly mixes engaging characters with a gripping mystery. Unlike many of the previous novels, the identity of the villain in this one is kept secret throughout. There was a heightened thrill in discovering the bad guy with Virgil. I've been a bit worried about the development of Virgil's personal life in the past few books, but I think his relationship with Frankie has grounded him in a way that has only made him more relatable. Holy Ghost is a novel in a fantastic series by an author who is at the top of his game. I can't wait to read the next one!

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2018, 40)

For years now, I've been a huge fan of John Sandford's Virgil Flowers series. I was first aware of Sandford through his long-running Prey series featuring hero Lucas Davenport. With nearly 30 novels in that series, I decided to start the Flowers series instead. Davenport frequently appears in the Flowers books, so I've been curious to see more of him. As I always do when starting a new series, I finally buckled down and started the first book, Rules of Prey.

Lucas Davenport is an immediately appealing character. He's extremely intelligent and has turned his natural logic and gift at solving puzzles into a side career of crafting the intricate stories of video games. This has given him a very comfortable life that leaves him monetarily and intellectually satisfied. Still, he seems to have found his true calling in solving crimes for the local police. By the time we meet him for the first time, Davenport is a well-established lieutenant ready to take on any challenge that comes his way.

He meets a worthy adversary in a killer dubbed the Mad Dog. The Mad Dog is assaulting and killing women throughout the twin cities.  Davenport latches onto the set of rules that the killer leaves behind at each crime scene. Each rule that is left reveals more about the way the Mad Dog is operating and leads Davenport one step closer to catching him. It will be a battle of wits until the very end.

After reading this first novel to feature Davenport, I came out liking the character, but not as much as I like Flowers. For now, Davenport comes off as a typical male fulfillment character. He's really smart, a total lady's man, and independently wealthy. He's also not afraid to get his hands dirty to solve the crime and stop a killer. That works fine for an initial outing, but he'll have to grow to keep me invested in further books. I've been told by friends that he gets much better over the course of the series. His friendship with a nun in this novel offers a glimmer of promise to the depth the character surely gains over the next 28 books.

Beyond Davenport's character, Rules of Prey offers the kind of fast and intricately plotted thriller that I've come to expect from John Sandford. As he does in many of the Virgil Flowers books, Sandford reveals to us the identity of the killer early on. This creates a suspenseful race of cat and mouse as Davenport inches closer and closer to discovering the identity of the killer that we already know. I don't know how long it will take me to catch up on the next 27 books in this series, but Rules of Prey has certainly captured my attention and cemented John Sandford as one of my "go-to" authors.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2018, 33)

"Same old Flowers shit. You gotta ride with it."

For years, my favorite literary crime hero was James Patterson's Alex Cross. While I still faithfully read the Cross series, John Sandford's Virgil Flowers has recently ascended to the top spot. There's something about his eccentric investigative antics and never wavering moral compass that makes Flowers a must read. Like any long-running series, Virgil Flowers has had his highs and lows. The last two novels, both focusing largely on finding missing animals, have been true to form. Beyond his usual case studies, Flowers was allowed to truly evolve as a character in new and exciting ways. With Deep Freeze, the tenth installment in this series, John Sandford attempts to take his character to new heights by returning to a familiar setting.

The rough and tumble lady's man Virgil Flowers has been steadily dating his girlfriend Frankie for the last several books. Seeing the way Frankie interacts with her sons has started to cause Virgil think about potentially being a father one day, a role the three time divorcee never imagined he would even consider. The couple's vacation is cut short when Virgil is called by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to travel to Trippton, Minnesota. Virgil has a troubled history with the small town. The last time he was there, he encountered a dog smuggling ring and a corrupt and murderous school board.

This trip sees Virgil investigating the murder of a local banker who was pulled from a frozen river by a local fisherman. She was last seen alive at her home where she hosted a meeting of several other townspeople. They were gathered to plan their 20th high school reunion. As Virgil begins to interview the attendees of that meeting, he begins to see that each of these people may have had some incentive to murder the victim. What is it with this small town?!

As if things weren't already complicated enough, Virgil also receives a request directly from the governor's office. Mattel, maker of Barbie, has commissioned a lawyer from LA to present a cease and desist to a local woman who has been buying, altering, and reselling the dolls. She adds voice boxes to the dolls that cause them to spew suggestive and highly off-brand sounds that Mattel is eager to see stop. The problem is, the this seemingly insignificant operation puts food on the table to many struggling families within the Trippton community. Citizens are less than eager to assist in this particular investigation.

In this tenth novel in the Virgil Flower series, John Sandford continues to develop his character in ways that make this long-running series seem as fresh as ever. Virgil seems to be more calculated in his approach to investigation and takes less risks than he did in earlier novels. This can probably attributed to his relationship with Frankie. There's a couple close calls in this book that have him pleading with police to not inform Frankie of what happened. His concern for her well-being has definitely shifted his actions. Still, he continues to have the quick wit and keen ability to read between the lines of the people he interviews. I always marvel at Sandfords ability to reveal a killer from the start of a book and still hold my attention and create suspense out of an investigation that I know the answer to. Deep Freeze is no different. It is the perfect display of Sandford's writing prowess and the wonderful character he has created. Bring on the next Virgil Flowers adventure!

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2017, 44)

"In the haylofts of life, there are always a few wasps."

After taking a break from the character to pen sci-fi thriller Saturn Run, John Sandford returns to his Virgil Flowers series with Escape Clause. Virgil Flowers is the eccentric lead investigator for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). Over the years his investigative prowess has garnered him as much recognition has his unconventional methods and personality.

The ninth novel in the series opens with Flowers, unsurprisingly, skinny dipping with the likes of his girlfriend, her sister, and a priest. The group's reprieve from the summer heat is soon interrupted by the ring of Flower's cell phone. Two endangered tigers have disappeared from the Minnesota Zoo and the BCA wants Flowers to intervene. While he is hesitant, especially given the fact that he recently searched for a pack of missing dogs, Virgil is assured by his boss that successful retrieval of the missing felines will ensure he never takes on an animal related case again.

As Virgil delves into the underworld of trading illegally procured animals, trouble on the home front begins to brew. His now serious girlfriend Frankie and her sister Sparkle have found themselves caught up with a rough crowd. Sparkle has been investigating a local factory's mistreatment of migrant workers. The people who run it are less than enthused. Because of the familial relationship, Virgil is prohibited from taking part in any formal investigations. That does little to keep the action from finding him.

Virgil Flowers is easily one of my favorite characters in modern mystery fiction. John Sandford's bare prose and quick pacing are the perfect fit for Flower's matter-of-fact personality. I always marvel at the way Sandford manages to keep the suspense wound and the pages turning even when we know exactly who is involved with a crime. The thread about the missing tigers had many twists and turns. So much so, that the subplot about Sparkle ended up feeling like an underdeveloped distraction. This did little to take away from my enjoyment of the novel, but I don't feel like it added much to the story. While you don't have to read the previous novels to understand this one, I highly encourage it. For one, they are great books! More so, it is fun to see the way Virgil Flowers has evolved over the series. I devoured this installment in a couple of sittings, and can't wait to read what happens next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2017, 2)

Virgil Flowers is known for being the go to guy in investigating "the hard ones". As a lead investigator for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, he has gained a reputation as much for his unorthodox personality as his professional victories. In Deadline, the eighth novel to feature Flowers, author John Sandford places his character in a situation that seems to be quite mundane in comparison to his previous outings. Virgil's buddy, Johnson, requests his help in finding some dogs that have gone missing from various local townspeople. It isn't the most glamorous of cases, but Virgil is always happy to help a friend.

As he investigates the case of the dognappers, Virgil soon discovers there is more to the story than meets the eye. Amongst the rugged hills of rural Minnesota lie dark secrets that stay hidden to most. Residents claim they hear the barking of dogs at different times in the night, fading in and out as if they are on the move. Could an overly observant child who knows the landscape like the back of his hand hold the key to finding the missing pups? Is it worth risking a boy's safety to uncover the truth?

As the novel began, I was a bit hesitant of an entire book being devoted to missing dogs. Luckily, Sandford supplements this plot with a story about a crooked local school board. While investigating the animals, Virgil learns of a reporter who was murdered shortly before he broke a story of the board's wrongdoing. Desperate to cover the trail of their crimes, the board holds secret meetings to eliminate anyone who stands in their way. Naturally, Virgil becomes their prime target.

After the odd and uneven narrative departure in Storm Front, Deadline marks a return to form for the Virgil Flowers series. Sandford takes Flowers back to what he does best, a straightforward chase between characters who all walk a thin line between right and wrong. The fact that the reader knows exactly who is behind the crimes that Flowers investigates does little to deter from the enjoyment of the story. It is not the discovery of a secret that makes this book works, but rather the buildup to justice. Beyond the thriller elements, Deadline brings a new depth to Virgil as a character. He is in a committed relationship now and is starting to recognize the danger of his work. More so, he is learning that his unconventional methods can lead to destructive consequences for those he surrounds himself with. Deadline combines Sandford's quick pacing with fascinating characters who face moral dilemmas to create one of the strongest installments in this stellar series. I can't wait to see what the next book will bring!

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2016, 32)

"There're not many angels around anymore. Not in my work."

The Virgil Flowers series by John Sandford is one of my all time favorites. Flowers, a quirky investigator who has his own way of going about his job, is one of the most charismatic and unconventional leads in a popular mystery series. His long hair, obscure music group t-shirts, and cowboy boots make him instantly recognizable by wardrobe alone. His reputation as maverick investigator who solves "the hard ones" places him in some of the most dangerous situations that the state of Minnesota has to offer. Storm Front finds Flowers in an investigation that has stakes reaching far beyond the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

Elijah Jones is in the biggest trouble of his life. For years, Jones has cared for his wife who suffers from Alzheimers. Now, as he faces his own terminal cancer diagnosis, Jones sets a plan in motion that could potentially keep his wife cared for long after he has died. During a recent archeological dig in Israel, Jone's team discovered an ancient artifact that seemingly alters history dating back to the Bible. He smuggles the artifact home to Minnesota in the hopes of auctioning it to the highest bidder and securing the wellbeing of his wife for years to come.

Enter Virgil Flowers. He is busy investigating a petty case of local fraud when his boss Lucas Davenport gives him a call. Shortly after, Flowers is at the airport picking up an Israeli expert who he will assist in retrieving the artifact. But Israel is not the only party with interest in the relic. The history and religion altering implication of the ancient stele has a host of parties from around the world racing to retrieve it. From an American television personality to a notorious terrorist, it seems like everyone wants to get their hands on the artifact. This leaves Virgil in a unique situation. Is an ancient rock really worth dying for?

As with the previous novels in this series, it is really fun to read about Virgil Flowers working out a case in his unique way. John Sandford writes with a crisp urgency that makes Storm Front a real page turner. That being said, this is the first novel in the series that I didn't come out of wanting more. The plot of this book strays a bit to far from reality for me. The globe spanning historical implications of the premise seem more fitting to Dan Brown's Robert Langdon than Virgil Flowers. Flowers seemed so out of place, in fact, that I found myself more interested in the subplot of antique lumber fraud than the main story. Some have suggested that Sandford may have employed another author to help him write this novel. Whether this is true or not, Storm Front, is an installment that does not reach the height of the novels that preceded it. For the sake of his fantastic character, I hope this novel does not mark the beginning of a decline in what remains one of my favorite series.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.

(2016, 27)

Jimmy Sharp and his girlfriend, Becky Walsh are in way over their heads. With the assistance of Tom McCall, who only agrees to help because of his childhood crush on Becky, the threesome sets out to steal diamonds from a wealthy family. All three come from poor backgrounds and are determined to escape the pattern of ignorance and poverty that plagues their families. But their get rich quick scheme goes terribly wrong. In an instant, a simple robbery turns into murder and the threesome flees. When their junk car dies on them, they carjack an innocent bystander, killing him in the process. Soon, the three are on a killing spree as they desperately try to escape all of their wrongdoings.

Enter Virgil Flowers of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). The quirky Flowers, imagine a cross between a cowboy and a rock star, is known for always solving "the hard ones". And so he is called in to help round up the murderous trio. Unlike some of his other cases, Virgil is almost certain that the three are guilty of the crimes, so this is basically a large scale manhunt. Still, Virgil speaks to many of the locals to try to discover a solid motive for the crimes.

Virgil's unorthodox tactics and sharp wit usually cause him to ruffle the feathers of the local authorities. This case is no different. The murders have rocked the small town and the local sheriff wants to end the spree at all costs, even if that means killing the three kids on the spot. While Virgil is equally determined to bring the trio to justice, he fully believes in the judicial system and his role in it. He knows that with his skills and the assistance of a passionate community, the three will be apprehended and put on trial. That is...if the local sheriff will let him do his job!

This sixth installment in the Virgil Flowers series continues the quick pace, thoughtful narrative, and pure entertainment of its predecessors. John Sandford writes with an efficient prose that never gets in the way of the story or characters and allows for a breakneck pace. Unlike many other mystery novels, the reader and detective know who the killers are from the get go. The fun is instead in learning how Virgil Flowers, one of the most charismatic and enticing characters I've ever read, pursues the criminals. It is the character, not the plot, who is the driving force of this novel. The ending, while maybe not the conclusion readers will hope for, serves as a testament to Sandford's dedication to realism and emotion. Overall, this novel continues the excellent quality of the Virgil Flowers series and I can't wait to read of his next adventure.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and GoodReads.

(2015, 8)

The citizens of Butternut Falls, Minnesota are not happy. The construction of a new PyeMart, a large retail superstore akin to WalMart, threatens the small businesses that inhabit the town and the pristine river that runs adjacent to the site. Despite the undisputed protest by the locals, the city council approves the building permit, and the battle seems all but lost. But someone has other plans. A bomb goes off at the PyeMart offices, killing several employees and coming precariously close to the office of the company's CEO. When a second bomb goes off at the Butternut Falls construction site, it becomes apparent that someone has taken matters into their own hands.

Virgil Flowers is enjoying a fishing trip and a few ice cold beers, when he learns of the bombings. His boss, Lucas Davenport of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) informs him of the details, and Flowers is soon on his way to the scene of the crime. A kind of outlaw in the law enforcement field, Virgil defies the typical detective getup, opting instead to keep his blond hair long, and to wear t-shirts, jeans, and boots. His off the cuff personality may ruffle feathers, but he always gets the job done.

Upon his arrival to the small town, he realizes that just about any of the local citizens have the motive to stop the superstore from being built. Therefore, Virgil casts a wide net that delves into the not so perfect lives of many of the townspeople. As more bombing continue, he gains the assistance from several of the locals, through an unconventional survey that asks them to name possible suspects. With pressure mounting and no clear direction, Virgil Flowers faces a difficult case that threatens to destroy a small town and all of its inhabitants.

Having read and enjoyed the previous four installments in the Virgil Flower series, I was pleased that this one maintains the fun and accessibility of its predecessors. Flowers is easily one of my favorite characters from any of these kind of mystery novels. It was refreshing to see the character tackle a large case that was more than just a straightforward murder. Author John Sandford has a knack for quick pacing, but I felt this novel lagged a bit in the middle. Too often, Virgil had no clear direction in his investigation. Despite this, the character's undeniable charisma helped to keep me invested in the story, enough to make it to the tightly plotted last third of the book. Although there are few shortcomings, this novel is an entertaining read that continues to build upon the strong foundation of the previous installments. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and can't wait to see what happens next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and GoodReads.

(2014)

A small Minnesota town is shocked when local high school football star, Bobby Tripp, is arrested for the brutal murder of farmer Jacob Flood. Immediately, this opening scene, in which we read the details of Tripp killing Flood, strays from John Sandford's usual practice of hiding the identity of the killer. Knowing Tripp's identity, I was certain that this would be a story that was much different from any of the previous installments in this series.  Sure enough, Tripp is found the next day, dead in his jail cell from an apparent suicide. Upon further investigation, it is revealed that Tripp's death was involuntary which could mean only one thing. . . murder.

Enter Virgil Flowers. He probably better resembles an aging cowboy/rocker, but there is no denying his skill. Despite his unconventional appearance and behavior, he has become one of the best investigators working for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension(BCA). He is called by the town's sheriff, Lee Coakely. Coakley is an attractive, recent divorcee with two sons. From their first encounter, there is palpable chemistry between her and Virgil. But there is no time for romantic excursions. It is soon revealed that the officer who was guarding Tripp's cell has also, apparently, committed suicide. As you can probably predict, his death is quickly determined to be a murder, as well.

As Virgil investigates, he comes across two possible directions at which to follow the case. The first involves the young Bobby Tripp. As a high school sports star, he was sure to get a large scholarship to continue playing ball at the college level. But an injury left him in his small town. Virgil's snooping reveals that Tripp may have been gay. Stuck in his small town and hiding the secret to his sexuality, it is possible that Jacob Flood threatened to reveal Tripp's secret, leading Tripp to kill him.

The other thread involves the dead officer's secretive church. Perhaps more reminiscent of a cult, the church is rumored to condone strange sex acts, including pairing underage children with older members. This thread reveals actions dating over 100 years into the towns history and possible connections to previous murders. With all of these issues comming to light, Virgil is thrust into some of the darkest crimes he has ever experienced.

This is kind of a change of pace for John Sandford's Virgil Flowers series. Yes, he continues to make Virgil one of the most entertaining and relatable characters in crime fiction, but he forces his lovable character into some of the darkest situations he's ever written about. Rape is never an easy topic, especially when it involves children, but Sandford's skills as a writer allow him to touch upon the subject with a delicate hand, while still advancing his fast paced mystery. This is the best Virgil Flowers novel to date, with a strong web of mystery that will keep you engrossed until the very last page.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and GoodReads.

(2013: week 27, book 27)