The Butcher's Boy
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- $12.99
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- $12.99
Publisher Description
The Edgar Award–winning novel by the “master of nail-biting suspense”(Los Angeles Times)
Thomas Perry exploded onto the literary scene with The Butcher’s Boy. Back in print by popular demand, this spectacular debut, from a writer of “infernal ingenuity” (The New York Times Book Review), includes a new Introduction by bestselling author Michael Connelly.
Murder has always been easy for the Butcher’s Boy—it’s what he was raised to do. But when he kills the senior senator from Colorado and arrives in Las Vegas to pick up his fee, he learns that he has become a liability to his shadowy employers. His actions attract the attention of police specialists who watch the world of organized crime, but though everyone knows that something big is going on, only Elizabeth Waring, a bright young analyst in the Justice Department, works her way closer to the truth, and to the frightening man behind it.
Praise for The Butcher’s Boy
“A stunning debut . . . a brilliantly plotted thriller.”—The Washington Post
“A shrewdly planned and executed thriller.”—The New York Times Book Review
“Thomas Perry has hit the mark.”—Houston Chronicle
“Totally enthralling.”—The New Yorker
Customer Reviews
A great first novel
The body count starts slow then picks up speed in this saga of a hit man. The killer finds himself the hunted. The Justice Department’s analyst finds herself out of her comfort zone and a step behind as she ties together a series of murders.
The only criticism I may have is the hit man’s sudden ability to jump on the back of a thoroughbred , ride bareback at a gallop and maintain his perch as the horse jumps a fence. Otherwise, bravo!
Good introductory novel
This book was the author’s first novel. It was written over 40 years ago so many of the interactions between the characters as well as the use (or lack) of technology might feel strange and hamper the enjoyment of the story for some readers. In addition, some actions of the main character feel unrealistic and, at times, contrived. However, if you can set those objections aside overall it was an enjoyable read. Not Four stars but a solid 3 1/2. As the first of a four novel set it is a good introduction to this character. I am looking forward to reading the other three novels in this series.
The Bad Guy Wins
Not the worst guy... But he's a cold blooded killer! There are way too many holes in this story. They are compelling characters and the writing is crisp. But the story hinges on way too many inconceivable plot points!