When Joe Gunther looks into the death of an old Vermont hermit, he finds a skeleton buried in the back yard that seems to have been there for 15 years . . . and the skeleton has an artificial knee! The mystery behind the skeleton's knee leads Gunther on a terrifying trip to Chicago's mean streets.
All of Mayor's mysteries are well researched, and convey a strong sense of place. He reaches below the picturesque veneer of contemporary New England to reveal its scandals and crimes, beauty and ugliness. His characters are multidimensional, believable and sympathetic even in their weaknesses. Other reviewers have thumbnailed the plot of this one; it is simply one of the most interesting novels I have ever read.
THE SKELETON'S KNEE
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
I HAD NEVER READ THIS AUTHOR BEFORE. THIS BOOK IS NOT ONE TO BE PUT DOWN. THE STORY WAS CLEAR, THOUGH TWISTING, CHARACTERS VERY ALIVE. I HAVE READ MYSTERIES FOR 30 YEARS NOW AND DID NOT FIGURE THIS ONE OUT--I HAD TO READ THE ENDING!
A master artist with words
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
All of Archer Mayor's books have a gripping story line. Although the stories are first class, the pictures drawn with words as the story unfolds are the best that I have ever encountered. The magnificent metaphors can create, in less than one sentence, images that may take other authors pages. Although each book is independent in and of itself, I enjoy reading the stories in sequence. There is a steady progression in character development and interpersonal relationships as we go from story to story. If you are a mystery fan, I am sure that you will enjoy the entire series as much as I have. If you are a student taking a course in creative writing, I don't think that you will find a better word artist than Archer Mayor.
now on a search for more archer mayor books
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 23 years ago
just finished reading this book and i'm off to find more! this book has enough twists and turns to satisfy the most avid mystery reader. a definite recommend...and it's not because i'm a native vermonter.
The author's attention to detail and realism is impressive.
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 27 years ago
The realism and detail of the story makes it obvious that the author "has been there". He creates a scene that actually puts you there too.For those of us that live near by or visit the locations written about in the book, know that the story is based upon real life places and not make-believe. Intelligent and well spoken written form
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