Black (Like Father) swirls noirish mystery elements, fine writing, and engaging characters into a complicated, sexy thriller that will please readers of any genre. A late-night phone call to Mycenae, N.Y., lawyer Jack Slidell sends him to a nearby motel, where he finds his boss, Frank Milhet, dead, a prostitute beaten unconscious, and lots of crack cocaine scattered about the seedy motel room. The police suspect Jack, who has a history of past misdeeds, but don't charge him with any crime. Along with attractive fellow lawyer Caroline Wonder, Jack sets out to clear his name. In short order, Jack takes three serious beatings and a knifing, and a mysterious figure known as the Cowboy gets on his tail. The secret of Frank's murder, which may have nationwide consequences, could be tied to a wealthy local family with links to a utility company. The ending will leave some heaving the book across the room, some scratching their heads, and others haunted for days. (May) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

Screenwriter and award-winning novelist Black tackles the thriller genre with a provocative noir tale that will have fans primed for discussion. Jack Slidell receives a phone call from an anonymous source saying that one of Jack's law associates needs help. Jack is directed to a seedy motel, where he finds the associate dead, his body lying next to a beat-up prostitute. The police arrive, and Slidell finds himself a person of interest. Yes, this is one more crime novel using the overfamiliar premise that begins in order to prove his own innocence. Black gets beyond the tired plot convention, however, by putting the focus on noir atmosphere and on his full-blooded, believable characters. His writing is appropriately moody, and he manages to take the story in some quite surprising directions. Noir fans are certain to be pleased.--Ayers, Jeff Copyright 2010 Booklist