My latest read was A Morning for Flamingos by James Lee Burke. This is the fourth book in the Dave Robicheaux series. The three earlier books were solid, but you can feel Burke coming into his own as a storyteller in this one. It’s more than just a detective novel; it’s a deep dive into the heart and soul of its characters and setting. If you are looking for a quick, action-packed thriller, this isn’t the series you want. This is a rewarding read for those who appreciate rich prose and intricate character development.
While the writing is solid, I am still not sure whether I “like” the Dave Robicheaux character enough to keep reading the series. I had some of the same issues with Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch character, but my negative reactions to that character were never as strong. I expect to read the next novel and will let you know what I think.
A Morning for Flamingos
James Lee Burke
Clutching the shards, of his shattered life, Cajun detective Dave Robicheaux has rejoined the New lberia police force.
His partner is dead — slain during a condemned prisoner’s bloody flight to freedom that left Robicheaux critically wounded and reawakened the ghost of his haunted, violent past.
Following the trail of the escaped convicts, Robicheaux is soon drawn back to New Orleans. But this time, the stakes are even higher. He’s working for the DEA undercover in an attempt to incriminate Tony Cardo, a clinically insane drug lord. But all Robicheaux’s really got is revenge on the mind. And he’ll only be satisfied when the killers who upended his life have been brought to justice.
Released December 15,2011
388 pages