5 Minutes For Books

According to Their Deeds

by

Y’all know that some of my favorite fiction is the Southern story, Jan Karon’s At Home in Mitford series being a prime example. I don’t know if that constitutes an official genre but it’s what I like. I also like fiction that is smart and witty and Paul Robertson’s newest novel According to Their Deeds fits the bill, weaving a tale of murder and suspense interlaced with literary allusions and philosophical debates.

From the back cover:

A Deadly Game of Justice Versus Mercy

Charles Beale lives outside the shadow of Washington, D.C. Politics and power matter only when a client crosses the Potomac to visit his Alexandria Rare Books shop. But that all changes when a former client–a man deeply connected in the Justice Department–is found murdered after a break-in gone bad. When Charles reclaims at auction the books he’d once sold, he quickly discovers he’s bought more trouble than he could have ever imagined. Inside one volume are secrets. A collection of sins that, if revealed, could destroy reputations, careers–even lives. Charles soon learns he isn’t the only who knows. Going to the police means ruining a multitude of lives. But staying silent puts a target on his shop, his wife–and himself. Charles must decide: Should one mistake really cost you everything?

Through the character of rare books dealer Charles Beale, one can sense Robertson’s bibliophile status and in fact much of the wit of the novel stems from various literary references, particularly when the bookstore happens to sell a book whose title reflects Charles’ current circumstances. Robertson is a gifted and clever wordsmith, evident in the smart dialogue of According to Their Deeds as well as in the dark irony of his first novel The Heir (my thoughts here).

I found According to Their Deeds compelling and enjoyable not only for the suspense and mystery but also for the beauty and intelligence of Robertson’s prose. If you like murder and intrigue, an engaging plot and clever writing, then I happily recommend this book!

If you’d like to win a copy of this book, leave a comment. We’ll announce the winner March 25. Come back tomorrow for a special Books on Screen DVD giveaway as well!

The winners of What He Must Be if He Wants to Marry My Daughter are #24 Mary and #32 Gina Stratos.

Wife and mother, Bible teacher and blogger, Lisa loves Jesus, coffee, dark chocolate and, of course, books. Read more of her reflections at Lisa writes….

Comments

  5. Murder mysteries are one of my favorites. Thanks for the write-up and thanks for this giveaway.

  8. this sounds like a great book. i love southern tales, maybe has something to do being from the south. i loved the mitford series too. 🙂

  20. Somehow I’ve missed Jan Karon – she’s now on my TBR list. Thanks! According to Their Deeds sounds intriguing.

  21. This sounds like an interesting book that I’d like to read.

    Please enter me in your giveaway.

  23. I have the best husband in the world, and I’d love to win this book for him. He works very hard to support our loud, rambunctious family of five, and he deserves to have some quiet time with a book that would thrill him.
    Alicia Webster
    [email protected]

  33. A book about a bookstore owner-sounds like a
    terrific read to me. Just up my alley.

  35. I would love to win a copy. Thanks for the giveaway.

    Angela
    accoupons at gmail dot com

  36. I would love to win this book. I’m always looking for good authors, trying to stay away from the best sellers list as they are mostly too commercial and poorly written. This sounds good and would love to aquaint myself with this author. Thanks for the chance.

  46. I think “the Southern story” is the perfect name for the genre – and it’s one of my favorites, too. “According to Their Deeds” sounds like an interesting suspense read.

  49. This sounds like a good read. Thanks for the review and giveaway opportunity. I’d love to win a copy.

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