Double Deuce

In Parker's ( Pastime ) 23rd Spenser novel, our hero finds himself, at the behest of his pal Hawk, defending the residents of a gang-terrorized Boston housing project known as Double Deuce. The drive-by shooting of a teenage mother and her child brings the duo into a confrontation with gangleader Major Johnson and his posse. At the same time, Spenser's longtime relationship with psychologist Susan is escalating, and the two agree to live together. The contrast between Spenser's cozy domestic situation (and a new relationship for the enigmatic Hawk, who reveals some of his background) and the poverty and violence of the urban projects reinforces the authenticity of this series, and its quirky appeal. The plot is nothing new--it might be described as Spenser meets New Jack City --but Deuce 's snappy dialogue, timely, fast-paced action and quick characterizations make it classic Spenser. Mystery Guild main selection; Doubleday Book Club and Literary Guild alternate selection; condensation rights to Time-Life Books; audio rights to Dove Audio. (June)