Back Story

By Robert B. Parker

This is a review of an audiobook I listened to on my commute, another Parker mystery novel, a Spenser novel. Like, most of the other Parker novels I've listened to, especially the Spenser ones, this is a good listen. The narrator is clear and a good voice actor. Once again, the story is engaging and thought-provoking.

The beef I had with the last Spenser audiobook I reviewed, Cold Service, doesn't exist on this one. The track breaks are aligned with chapters, just as they should be. Navigation of this book was a breeze, as most Parker audiobooks are.

Spenser is hired by his adopted "son," Paul Giancomin, and a female friend of his, Daryl, to find Daryl's mother's killer. The case is 28 years stale, so it's no easy task, and Daryl gives him little to go on.

This book features many Spenser-universe recurring characters, including Hawk, who is a near constant companion of Spenser in this story. Vinny Morris makes a scant cameo and Jesse Stone is featured as well in his role as Police Chief of Paradise, Massachusetts. Of course, Susan Silverman is present and "Pearl II" makes her debut in this book.

Like Cold Service, Back Story doesn't suffer from the overuse of the F-bomb.

All in all, a good Parker book, featuring your favorite private dick, Spenser.

Similar posts

• Cold Service
• Sea Change
• High Profile
• Widow's Walk
• Then and Now
• Appaloosa

External links

• Back Story page from Robert B. Parker's website