A few weeks ago Jerry House mentioned he was read an anthology called Birds of Prey. I immediately ordered the book and finally got around to reading it over the weekend. As you know, editors love “themed” anthologies. In his Introduction, Halen Coben writes: “I challenged eleven of my favorite writers to write a short story containing a bird of prey.” (p. 8)
The results are mixed. I liked Tess Gerritsen’s “The Coffin Bearer” where a woman discovers a dead body. The twist to the story is the woman has fashioned a new identity and is afraid this murder could be a threat her.
The oddest story in Birds of Prey is Kathy Reichs’ “Owl.” The Government recruits a specialist known as Owl to investigate what might be an extraterrestrial. Plenty of surprises in this story!
I also enjoyed “The Falcon” by Robert Dugoni. Three Stanford students decide to buy a car at a police auction. But the students find out the car–a 1965 Ford Falcon–was owned by a gang member…who wants it back or else.
If you’re in the mood for an off-beat crime anthology, Birds of Prey will entertain you. GRADE: B
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Introduction / Harlan Coben
The coffin bearer / Tess Gerritsen
Precious change / C. J. Box
Owl / Kathy Reichs
Kudzu / Ace Atkins
Silent as a shadow / S. A. Cosby
Jailbirds / Hank Phillippi Ryan
The falcon / by Robert Dugoni
Watchers / Allison Brennan
Red of beak and claw / Gregg Hurwitz
Hawkshaw hunting / Kelley Armstrong.
I’m currently reading Harlan’s memoir/book on writing, PLOT TWIST, which I’m sure you will find entertaining as well. I have BIRDS OF PREY on hold.
Jeff, I have PLOT TWIST on order. I think BIRDS OF PREY will entertain you.
Interesting…I think I missed Jerry’s review between endless post-op sleep jags. As long as these anthos don’t lead to a damaged market for same….
Todd, I’m always interested in what Jerry House is reading. And, it leads to a lot of books being ordered!
By the descriptions of the stories you gave, I fail to see much in the way of birds of prey! Did I ever mention the time I saw an owl swoop up a beaver that was swimming across a brook? Quite a sight!
Bob, owls are spooky creatures. I can only imagine an owl swooping down to snag a beaver!
For once, I recognize all the writers!
Maggie, yes, BIRDS OF PREY includes Name Writers. However, I just read another collection where most of the writers were complete unknown!
George, I dare you to say that to their mothers!
BTW, in linking to your review, Kevin Tipple briefly thought you were married to Kellyanne Conway. If you actually are, we won’t tell Diane.
Jerry, well, Kellyanne Conway (Queen of Alternative Facts) would go down fast if confronted by Diane!