The Philosopher Stone

Rating:
Summary: In praise of violence
Review: THE PHILOSOPHER STONE

By Philip Rushlow

It's not often a new, refreshingly offbeat character enters the world of the mystery novel. All too often we meet a hardboiled cop/detective/thief who is tough, but blessed with with a heart of gold. As entertaining as these protagonists undoubtedly are, they do feel familiar.

Then along comes Locke Stone. A man who has passed on to another level in his life and takes advantage of his past success' to enjoy a life of quiet contemplation immersed in his first love; Philosophy. Philosophy? That's right. Stone hangs a shingle outside his offices and settles back to enjoy what? He doesn't know exactly, or particularly care for that matter.

Then Donna walks into his life. A beautiful and cynical woman who announces herself as a whore. Somehow it doesn't fit. Or perhaps Stone doesn't want that particular job description to fit. Donna introduces him to a cast of characters including a street smart young black man trying to protect his little sister, a wide range of the sexually challenged, even an egocentric intellectual, homeless by choice. A man whose closest companion is a bottle of bourbon.

A tale of extreme violence initiated by a truly evil mind sets the scene for the stomach gripping pursuit of a pathological sadist and murderer with whom Stone doesn't feel. A formerl police detective, now attorney, is drawn into this tumultuous and very dangerous game and the pace picks-up rapidly and doesn't slow down until it's time to put this entertaining inaugural work down.

Be warned. Keep a full glass of your favorit libation and a snack or two close by. You may not set this one down until long after bedtime.

David Lowe Tavernier, FL

Rating:
Summary: This one actually deserves raves
Review: When I picked this book up I intended it to serve as an occasional break from my "heavy reading." But, right from the prologue it took hold and never let go until it carried me to the denouement. What incredible characters and how well the author manages to keep each true to his or her role. The dialogue is ear-perfect and the result is that you are brought directly into the tale. You feel less like a reader than one of the players. Rushlow writes with great efficiency, there was never a dull spot from beginning to end. I trust there will be a sequel and, personally, I can't wait.

Rating:
Summary: This one actually deserves raves
Review: When I picked this book up I intended it to serve as an occasional break from my "heavy reading." But, right from the prologue it took hold and never let go until it carried me to the denouement. What incredible characters and how well the author manages to keep each true to his or her role. The dialogue is ear-perfect and the result is that you are brought directly into the tale. You feel less like a reader than one of the players. Rushlow writes with great efficiency, there was never a dull spot from beginning to end. I trust there will be a sequel and, personally, I can't wait.