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According to Their Deeds

March 18, 2009 by Lisa

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….

Filed Under: Fiction, Lisa, Mystery/Suspense

« Kids’ Picks — March
Alfred & Emily »

Comments

  1. Brenda Park says

    March 24, 2009 at 2:32 am

    Sounds like a great book, and I love a good murder story. Thanks for offering it in your giveaway!

  2. Molly Capel says

    March 24, 2009 at 2:52 am

    Sounds like a really interesting book. I love discovering new authors. 🙂

  3. Esther says

    March 24, 2009 at 8:18 am

    I would love to read this book.

  4. Roseann Kies says

    March 24, 2009 at 8:37 am

    Great author. Love to read this.

  5. Heather S says

    March 24, 2009 at 9:23 am

    Sounds like a really interesting book!

  6. dorothy l says

    March 24, 2009 at 10:46 am

    I would love to win

  7. Terri L says

    March 24, 2009 at 10:46 am

    I’d love to read this book!

  8. john pratt says

    March 24, 2009 at 10:51 am

    if you liked it i’m sure i will also. thanks if i win and i hope all of your days are blessed.

  9. Annmarie says

    March 24, 2009 at 11:12 am

    This book sounds great! The plot sounds wonderful, and the fact that it’s based in Alexandria (near where I used to live!) makes it even better!

  10. herblady says

    March 24, 2009 at 11:23 am

    This sounds very exciting and I know my husband and I will be fighting over it! Please include me in the draw. Thank you very much!

  11. Becky says

    March 24, 2009 at 1:51 pm

    Southern fiction is one of my favorite genre’s also.

  12. Lily Kwan says

    March 24, 2009 at 5:14 pm

    Please enter me into the contest. Thanks!

  13. Karen Gonyea says

    March 24, 2009 at 5:56 pm

    Sounds wonderful.

  14. Miranda Allen says

    March 24, 2009 at 6:10 pm

    Would love to enter

  15. Ronda says

    March 24, 2009 at 6:33 pm

    Would love to win. So many books, so little time.

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