MYSTERY/THRILLER

THE FIRST RULE: A Joe Pike Novel
Robert Crais
Putnam

While more accustomed to Joe Pike as a secondary character, and Elvis Cole in a starring position, this book turns the pair around. I like it. Pike is a ruthless opponent when crossed, and when one of his men from his old sniper unit is murdered, along with his whole family including small children, Joe is bound to find out who did it and why. Then we find Joe is just an old softy when it comes to babies—what a twist.

Crais always puts out a good book. While not on my required reading list, I enjoyed this offering.