Joyfully Retired

Author: Robert B. Parker

Publisher: Putnam, 2007

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Format: Audio (Narrated by XX

Source: Public Library

My Rating: B+

So many people have recommended this series to me that I just had to give it a try. First I checked the Robert Parker website to see how many books were in the series (6) and which one was the first (this one). While there I learned that actress, Helen Hunt, urged Parker to create the character of Sunny Randall so she could play her on the screen. I loved the actress in Mad About You and the film As Good As It Gets and I kept her in mind as I “read” this book.

Sunny is a former cop, now working as a private investigator in the Boston area. Her father, Paul, is a retired police detective and a person that Sunny greatly respects. When her father is asked to come out of retirement to help solve a set of serial murders, he asks Sunny to join him.

Thirty years earlier Phil Randall was the lead investigator into a series of murders that came to be known as the “Spare Change Killer.” The murders were never solved and then they suddenly stopped. Now, after all this time, the murders have started again. There is no particular pattern other than the three coins left at the scene of the crime. First, Sunny and her dad must decide if this is the same killer or a possible copy-cat.

Sunny is smart and also has good instincts. While interviewing one particular suspect, she has a very strong hunch that something is up with this guy. She’s convinced of it even after extensive investigation proves nothing. He enjoys meeting with Sunny and she can feel the sexual tension within this guy when they talk about the murders. As the murders pile up the detectives begin to notice the victims eerily resemble Sunny. It looks like she could be the next victim.

The story covers more than just the investigation. We also get a good look at Sunny’s dad, mom and sister. The family dynamics are interesting. In addition, Sunny shares a dog with her former husband. It’s obvious she’s still in love with him even though he has remarried. The good thing about a Robert Parker story is that you always get a little biit extra worked into the basic story.

I read this book with my ears. The audiobook was narrated by Kate Burton who did an excellent job. I loved how some of the characters had good old Boston accents.

Now I know why lots of people like this series. Just add my name to the list of enthusiastic fans.
Check you local library for copies of this book. It’s also available at Amazon. (I am an Amazon Associate.)