Robert B. Parker’s Hot Property

Robert B. Parker’s Hot Property by Mike Lupica is a solid mystery full of investigation and occasional action. Add in a few twists and sarcasm plus literary, music, and baseball references and you have a winning combination.

Private investigator Spenser gets word that Rita Fiore has been shot. While their relationship has been awkward at times, she’s considered family, not just a friend. Family will always be protected. While Rita is no stranger to controversy as a tough criminal defense lawyer, there is a long list of potential suspects. Rita’s life is touch and go. Who shot her? With so many suspects, it’s up to Spenser, with help from some friends, to narrow the field.

Spenser is self-reliant, protects those he cares about fiercely, and confident. He’s a strong protagonist with a level of determination that many lack. He’s also a tough guy who cooks and loves baseball and old movies. Psychologist Susan Silverman is his long-time girlfriend and sounding board. It was great to also catch up with other familiar characters from the series.

This is the first book in the series that I’ve read by Mike Lupica. I felt the characters felt true to the original. That, combined with the author’s own writing style and voice as well as a fresh plot and great prose made this a fun book to read. The world-building is great with Boston as the scene for most of the novel. From weather to food to neighborhood bars to politicians to the police, readers find themselves immersed in the imagery.

The writing is effective and crisp, with characters who are emotionally rich, snappy dialogue, and conflicts that move the story forward through some unsettling events. The narrative lured me in and made me want to stay longer with old friends. The well-crafted and suspenseful story hooked me from the beginning. With multiple believable suspects who have realistic motives, can Spenser discover the killer? The story unfolds with tension that builds up and keeps you invested in the outcome. Themes include friendship, found family, lies, attempted murder, and more.

Overall, this is a solid and enjoyable mystery with familiar characters filled with intense moments and some action that kept me turning the pages. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Those who enjoy crime mystery and private detective stories will likely enjoy this book with its engrossing plot, fast pace, and snappy dialogue.

PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G. P. Putnam’s Sons and Mike Lupica provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 26, 2024.