Review: murder, philosophy, and ...football!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 10 10, 2012
This is an extremely satisfying book, because of the mystery, very well plotted and presented; because of the writing, which is well paced and very readable; and because, mostly, of the characters who are developed carefully, and present themselves as mostly imperfect yet decent, likeable people.  The lead character, once a professional football player, is determined, thoughtful and compassionate, and I got the sense that he enjoys most people.There is a delightful feature in this book ...and that is the old man, with whom the protagonist has several philosophical discussions, or perhaps one, in installments.  I have seen such things before in fiction, but this example is one of the most delightful and least annoying: truth to tell, the old man charmed me.The ending was a complete surprise, and contains one of the more heart warming sequences in any mystery novel I've read.  Yes, the author leaves the door open for sequels ...but I don't mind, because I, for one, will be happy to read them.