In the Midst of Death

July 27, 2008 in Mystery, Uncategorized by admin | No comments

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Author: Lawrence Block

Genre: Mystery

Rating: *** (3 Stars)

Summary:

About the Series

In the Midst of Death is one of Lawrence Block’s many Matthew Scudder novels. They tell the story of an ex-police officer turned private investigator, who retired from the police force after the accidental death of a little girl during a shoot-out with two armed robbers. He is also a heavy drinker, although he doesn’t admit that to himself until much later in the series. Although the novels follow a rough chronological progression, they don’t have to be read in order. Each story stands alone, and backstories are briefly described for the benefit of readers who may not be familiar with them.

The Scudder novels are not particularly violent or action oriented. He drives his plots mostly with dialog as the detective talks to various people in the course of his investigation. Occasionally there will be a confrontation, but Scudder is good with his words and usually doesn’t have to fight, often persuading the bad guys to turn themselves in.

In the Midst of Death

Jerry Broadfield is a corrupt cop who has voluntarily gone to the district attorney with information about corruption in the New York Police Department. Naturally, some of the police aren’t happy with him. Since going state’s evidence, Broadfield has been arrested for the murder of a prostitute who was found stabbed in his apartment. He claims he has been set up, and hires Scudder to clear him.

While investigating, Scudder is troubled by the question of why Broadfield, who was one of the most corrupt officers in the department, would voluntarily rat out his fellow officers. The situation is further complicated by the suspicious deaths of several people Scudder thinks might have answers.

My Thoughts:

Lawrence Block is one of my favorite authors, especially his Burglar series and the Matt Scudder detective stories. Although I was initially put off by the high dialogue to action ratio, I quickly acquired a taste, enjoying the characteristic witty banter of Block’s characters.

In the Midst of Death is one of the earlier Scudder novels, which are shorter and less complex than the later ones. I prefer Block’s mature writing style, but I still find the early books to be compelling and entertaining.