
Crider, known for his mystery series, with the Sheriff Dan Rhodes series perhaps being his best-known work, writes several other series. This collection of short stories is a great way to meet some of his other sleuths.
With a sly sense of humor evident in most of his writing, the author infuses a wry, often ironic tone, to his prose. Even some of his titles make me smile, like "See What the Boys in the Locked Room Will Have." (Show me a mystery reader who won't smile at that!)
This dozen of mystery short stories is perfect reading for those odd moments in the day when you need a short break, or, do as I did, and read them one after the other on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
From small town Texas Sheriff Dan Rhodes to a werewolf teenager, Crider's characterization never makes a misstep. Whether the character is "real" like the sheriff or a fantasy creature like a werewolf, Crider makes them all believable.
In case you don't know, Crider also writes edgier, darker -- much darker -- fiction too, and some of these short stories show that.
Takeaway Truth
Short story collections are a great way to sample the diverse offerings of an author. When the voice appeals, let it lead you to a longer work -- perhaps even to a new series. Happy reading!
Thanks, Joan!
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Bill. Finally made some time to post the review to Amazon and Goodreads.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the escape!