The Wild Hog Murders: A Dan Rhodes Mystery

Dealing with stampeding swine, trigger-happy hunters, and dense deputies is just part of the job for Sheriff Dan Rhodes in Crider's droll 18th whodunit featuring the amiable Clearview, Tex., lawman (after 2010's Murder in the Air). What really puts a damper on his day is his discovery of an unidentified murder victim in the woods%E2%80%94a man who earlier fled a convenience store without paying for gas. With talk-show host Milton Munday calling for the sheriff's hide, big-time bounty hunter Hoss Rapinski dogging his footsteps, and Rhodes's wife, Ivy, slyly trying to vegefy his diet, things in Blacklin County appear to be heading south fast%E2%80%94and that's before the second body surfaces. While the even-tempered Rhodes more or less maintains his equanimity through the escalating mayhem, some readers may find that confusing plot complications make for an increasingly bumpy ride. Still, series fans will enjoy this shaggy hog story. (July)