What do You think about Cold Hit (2006)?
I've watched numerous Stephen J. Cannell TV shows over the years, but this was my first Shane Scully novel. The dust jacket summary is enough to draw in fans of police procedurals and with the hint of an out-of-control Homeland Security Czar, this would be a favorite with conspiracy theory buffs and anyone who loves to feel the frustration of a government agents vs local cops story.It started out fairly serious with Scully and his partner barely able to keep thier heads above water investigating a serial killer preying on Vietnam War era homeless veterans. As the chapters progressed, Scully lost his overly serious persona and some very good caustic and humorous dialogue broke surface and made me happy. My one critism comes from an over-the-top wrap up that could have been just as effective and much more believable. But I'll still be reading more Shane Scully books in the furture, even though I feel almost hopeless when I consider that these stories are written by a guy like Cannell who has a big IN in Hollywood, but doesn't have a primetime show on the horizon called Homicide Special. If he can't land a TV spot now, what can the rest of us crime fiction writers hope for?
—Wayne Zurl
It's nice to get back in touch with Cannell's writing. After I learned belatedly the other day that he had passed, I got into a sort of funk and a little ashamed for not keeping up with him better. Alas, all bad things happen in threes though. After my other two favorite - or at least most-read - authors passed, c'est la vie I guess. He will be missed.This was another Scully novel about a serial killer labeled "The Fingertip Killer" as he cuts the fingertips off all his victims. Good read. I enjoyed it, as I always do Cannell's work. He's always full of good sayings and funny quips, and his books are a fast read, and a lot of fun without requiring too much thought.Upon learning of Cannell's untimely death the other day, I went to half.com and ordered the rest of his books that I don't have. There were only five, and one of those is due for release next month. I will be going on a Cannell streak here like I did in December 2007-January 2008.
—Space
Good escape value with this mystery/thriller that pits LAPD Detective Scully against a serial killer and shadowy forces that impede his investigation, 5th in the series. The killings of homeless men is challenged by difficulty identifying them due to removal of their fingertips. As he gets closer to meaningful clues, linkages to the Russian mob and Homeland Security issues brings an array of enemies out of the woodwork. Unfortunately, his partner�s alcoholism and his son�s negotiations for a college football scholarship are providing distractions dangerous to his concentration on the case. A bit long and complicated but still satisfying in the puzzles solved and courageous action taken by Scully.
—Michael
