DEATH GAMES

by Michael Jahn ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 1, 1987

Lieut. Bill Donovan, head of the NYPD's West Side Major Crimes Unit (Night Rituals, 1982), returns--in a police procedural that's short on mystery and suspense (we follow the killer's moves throughout), long on gritty atmosphere, zesty dialogue, and brisk action. When several members of godfather Ciccia's NY mob are sequentially murdered, Donovan and black sidekick Jefferson naturally suspect that a gang-war's in progress--and haul in Ciccia's mobland rivals for questioning. But soon they figure out what the reader already knows: the killings are the work of a beautiful, rich young woman from horse country, one Andrea Jones--who seems to be on a personal vendetta with her antique Civil War pistol. But why, then, does Ms. Jones seem to have backup support from the FBI and/or CIA? (Donovan's being wiretapped and stonewalled.) And why does she seem uninterested in hiding her guilt? (She even pays Donovan a teasing visit.) The answers become clear only after a nautical chase to Newport and a bloody shootout with Jones & Co. An unremarkable story? Yes, it is. But Jahn keeps things bright and crackling--with Donovan's bluntly savvy manner, some sexy grown-up romance (Donovan and black policewoman Marcia), and a steady supply of city-wise, dark-humored vignettes.

Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1987

ISBN: 0393332330

Page Count: -

Publisher: Norton

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1987

Categories: FICTION