In this fast-paced historical thriller, the #1 New York Times bestselling author introduces Archer, a WWII veteran forced to investigate a small-town murder — or risk returning to prison.
It’s 1949. When war veteran Aloysius Archer is released from Carderock Prison, he is sent to Poca City on parole with a short list of do’s and a much longer list of don’ts: do report regularly to his parole … don’ts: do report regularly to his parole officer, don’t go to bars, certainly don’t drink alcohol, do get a job — and don’t ever associate with loose women.
The small town quickly proves more complicated and dangerous than Archer’s years serving in the war or his time in jail. Within a single night, his search for gainful employment — and a stiff drink — leads him to a local bar, where he is hired for what seems like a simple job: to collect a debt owed to a powerful local businessman, Hank Pittleman.
Soon Archer discovers that recovering the debt won’t be so easy. The indebted man has a furious grudge against Hank and refuses to pay; Hank’s clever mistress has her own designs on Archer; and both Hank and Archer’s stern parole officer, Miss Crabtree, are keeping a sharp eye on him.
When a murder takes place right under Archer’s nose, police suspicions rise against the ex-convict, and Archer realizes that the crime could send him right back to prison . . . if he doesn’t use every skill in his arsenal to track down the real killer.
e indebted man has a furious grudge against Hank and refuses to pay; Hank’s clever mistress has her own designs on Archer; and both Hank and Archer’s stern parole officer, Miss Crabtree, are keeping a sharp eye on him.
When a murder takes place right under Archer’s nose, police suspicions rise against the ex-convict, and Archer realizes that the crime could send him right back to prison . . . if he doesn’t use every skill in his arsenal to track down the real killer.e indebted man has a furious grudge against Hank and refuses to pay; Hank’s clever mistress has her own designs on Archer; and both Hank and Archer’s stern parole officer, Miss Crabtree, are keeping a sharp eye on him.
When a murder takes place right under Archer’s nose, police suspicions rise against the ex-convict, and Archer realizes that the crime could send him right back to prison . . . if he doesn’t use every skill in his arsenal to track down the real killer.e indebted man has a furious grudge against Hank and refuses to pay; Hank’s clever mistress has her own designs on Archer; and both Hank and Archer’s stern parole officer, Miss Crabtree, are keeping a sharp eye on him.
When a murder takes place right under Archer’s nose, police suspicions rise against the ex-convict, and Archer realizes that the crime could send him right back to prison . . . if he doesn’t use every skill in his arsenal to track down the real killer.more
This is my least favorite of the Baldacci books. The story is written in the style of a 1950’s crime novel which Baldacci captured well but I don’t like it.
I LOVED this book. Aloysius is a great character, honest and honorable as much as he can be, depending on the circumstances, and you can’t help but root for him throughout the book. The trial was entertaining and had me laughing as it reminded me of a combination of Matlock, Columbo, and My Cousin Vinny rolled into one. I wish there were more books to follow Aloysius on his continued journeys.
Classic Baldacci with an historical twist. Historical readers will want to give this new thriller a try by one of the American masters of the thriller genre.
Love the characters that Baldacci creates!
Love this author
I’ve liked all of David Baldacci’s books that I’ve read. This one was very different than the others. I’d describe the protagonist as a slow simple man who tries to do the right thing but trouble seems to always find him. It keeps you guessing as to the outcome.
Not my favorite Baldacci book but a quick read.
This piece of fiction, set after World War II, is a change of pace for Baldacci. It provides a look back in time with engrossing portrayal of small-town life and of life after prison.
I like the way he developed the characters i this book.
Archer is a total hero. You’ll like him!
David Baldacci is always a great way to spend time with. Never a dull moment.
A very “retro” novel – going to the 1940s in the US. Great atmosphere, interesting characters, a genuine hero, and fun to read. Quite unlike Baldacci’s more modern stories, because he provides the “feel” of the country during the time everything changed in our society. The hero is brave, funny, and successful in this adventure.
As thrilling and edge of ftthe seat as any of Baldacci’s books
One of my favorite authors and I’m never disappointed in reading his books.
This did not seem like Baldacci at all. The story was boring and predictable. It seemed like it might have been a project for a writing class many years ago that was dusted off and published. Don’t waste your time on this one. Very disappointing.
I am a fan of David Baldacci so this another one of is entertaining books.
I already reviewed this book I loved it.
A little slow but good. Takes you back in time
You can tell this is one of his early books as it was a little bit too simplistic. Was entertaining but not very believable. Baldaci’s writing style has greatly improved over time. He has learned to put more into the development of his characters.
A bit different from David’s usual books.
Not like his usual books. At first difficult to get into, then became absorbed in the book.