Rules of Prey

East Coast Don reviewed a John Sandford book more than two years ago, but this is the first time any of us guys at MRB have returned, despite ECD’s favorable review. This is a 1989 book, the first in the “Prey” series which now numbers 20 books. I agree with ECD that this is a better read than most of the ones I assign to the category of “airplane books.”

Lucas Davenport is the hero, a detective who has already killed five men in the line of duty, more than any other cop in the Minneapolis Police Department. But, before getting to Lucas, Standford introduced the serial killer “maddog” with a murder that was so graphically written, so sadistic, that I nearly put the book down at that point. I’m glad I didn’t because Lucas is a good guy, willing to act just outside the lines of the law, but of course, only for the sake of justice. Also, unlike other cops, he had legitimate outside income. He was a game creator, a game master who was paid big bucks for his new creations. He lived a life most cops could not. Meanwhile, maddog liked leaving clues to torment the police department. He had rules that he followed, and he left notes with the bodies of his victims, spelling out his rules: never kill anyone you know, never have a motive, never have a discernable pattern, never carry a weapon after it has been used, etc. The author took us through the detective process, introducing just enough info as the process continued to keep me interested. He presented the story as if two game masters were competing with each other. The Chief of Police was willing to tolerate Lucas’ behavior because he got results when no one else could. The local media was feasting on the tidbits that Lucas was feeding them, including some disinformation that was intended to help bring maddog out into the open. Lucas had romantic interest in a couple of the TV news anchors, one of whom was pregnant with his child and another who he was setting up as bait for maddog. The anchors who were fighting with each other for scoops, and then Lucas got involved with one of the near victims.

The pace of the book was excellent. Standford saved a good twist at the end.  Even though the resolution was not surprising, it was very satisfying. I’ll definitely read another Sandford. I think I’ve found a prolific and reliable author that I can turn to whenever I’m tired of other less talented writers.