A Clod of Wayward Marl

Critically acclaimed but underread Rick DeMarinis (Borrowed Hearts) turns his inimitable style to detective fiction in A Clod of Wayward Marl. Assistant English professor Guido Tarkenen, beleaguered by drink, his prostate and his ""electric knee-jerk"" temper, vows daily to mend his ways, but meanwhile stumbles on a multinational corporate plot involving virtual reality technology. Ribald and bighearted, our amped-up picaro might halt the pileup of bodies if he can stay sober long enough.