Anthony Boucher was the best critic of mystery fiction, but among living critics you’d have to put Jon L. Breen at the top of the list. His long and illustrious career features many great articles (“American Women Mystery Writers”) and many insightful analyzes of mystery authors (Michael Connelly, Loren D. Estleman, William Campbell Gault, Edward D. Hoch, P. D. James, Elmore Leonard, Henning Mankell, Margaret Millar, and Ellery Queen just to name a few from this volume). If you’re interested in fine writing and thoughtful studies into mystery fiction, A Shot Rang Out provides plenty of both. GRADE: A
I’m sure I would appreciate this book. I have been reading Mr. Breen’s reviews for the better part of twenty years.
You would love this book, David! It’s nice to have all of Breen’s fine work between covers.
Jon’s reviews always give me plenty to think about (and usually more books to read) and this book collects some of his best. I don’t believe there’s a more thoughtful reviewer out there today.
I completely agree with you, Jeff. Breen’s reviews have cost me plenty over the years…not that I’m complaining! I love to discover good, new books (and good old books).
Capturing a review in the small space alloted to him in EQMM is a true accomplishment. And he liked my book. A genius, obviously.
I liked your book, too, Bob. Does that make me a genius?
It sure does.
Now to convince my wife that I’m a genius… It will take more than your say-so, Bob.