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….
I’d like to read this
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Thanks
I am a huge mystery fan and sure to love this book.
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Great review, I got to read this! Please add me, thanks.
There is nothing better than a good book and a rainy Saturday. I am looking for some new books for that occasion. Thanks for the chance
I love a good read!
Would love to read this one……
Thanx for the contest
Sounds like my kind of book! Win or lose, I’ll be on the lookout for this title.
Oh, I would love to win this book… it sounds like a really good book…
debbebennett at yahoo dot com
please enter me
Mom time occurs about 10:00 with a book. Thanks for the chance.
Sounds like a great book. Great contest.
Thanks for the chance. Good reviews on Amazon!
Looks like a fantastic read. Please enter me!
It sounds like a really good book. I would love a chance to win. Thank you.
Your review not only exposes me to a book I’m not sure I would have otherwise heard of, let alone makes me enthusiastic to read it!
thank you for the opportunity to win this book; your review was very interesting
This looks like a great read. I always love a good mystery.
enter me
I like a good murder mystery . . .
Sounds like a wonderful, read, thanks for the chance to win!
I would love the chance to win, thanks.
This one sounds like a page-turner!
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enter me!
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Great give away thank you
I’d like to read this book. Thanks.
Sounds like a great read. I’m always looking for mystery books.
According To Their Deeds sounds thrilling, adventurous, and literary, and who wouldn’t want to win a copy?
I love to read! Thanks for a chance to win!
Happy Monday!
I love suspense books and this one sounds like a good one.
I’m looking for new authors. This would be wonderful to win!
I think I’d like it. Would be nice to read something other than spy novels/techno thrillers for a change.
I would love to win this! Thank you!
Sounds like a great book!
I would like to read this–thanks!
I would like to read this
Smart and eccentric bibliophiles make for such INTERESTING stories, because the warp and woof thereof develop such tangible textures…
This sounds deep and dark, convoluted with a touch of “the bigger they are, the more they crush when they fall” re the potential political fallout. Nice “teaser”!
Sounds like a great read, please count me in.
i’m always looking for a good book to read!
Sounds like a great read!