Black (Like Father
) swirls noirish mystery elements, fine writing, and engaging characters into a complicated, sexy thriller that will please readers of any genre. A late-night phone call to Mycenae, N.Y., lawyer Jack Slidell sends him to a nearby motel, where he finds his boss, Frank Milhet, dead, a prostitute beaten unconscious, and lots of crack cocaine scattered about the seedy motel room. The police suspect Jack, who has a history of past misdeeds, but don't charge him with any crime. Along with attractive fellow lawyer Caroline Wonder, Jack sets out to clear his name. In short order, Jack takes three serious beatings and a knifing, and a mysterious figure known as the Cowboy gets on his tail. The secret of Frank's murder, which may have nationwide consequences, could be tied to a wealthy local family with links to a utility company. The ending will leave some heaving the book across the room, some scratching their heads, and others haunted for days. (May)
