Robert B. Parker's "Thin Air" is an exceptional addition to his renowned Spenser series, capturing readers' attention from the onset with its thrilling storyline. The novel follows Spenser, a daring private detective, as he is assigned to protect Lisa St. Claire from her potentially dangerous ex-husband, Zack. As Spenser delves deeper into the case, he finds himself embroiled in the underworld of high-stakes gambling, organized crime, and the puzzling disappearance of a wealthy businessman. The book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride filled with suspense and action, showcasing Parker's signature wit and investigative prowess.

Parker's writing style is captivating and fast-paced, ensuring that readers become engrossed in the story from the very first page. The characters, particularly Spenser, are skillfully developed and immensely likeable. Spenser is a resilient and resourceful protagonist with a strong moral compass, making him the ideal lead for this type of narrative. The dynamic between Spenser and his loyal sidekick, Hawk, adds an additional layer of entertainment, with their clever banter and unwavering loyalty.

The plot of "Thin Air" is intricately woven, replete with surprising twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the book's climactic conclusion. Parker seamlessly blends mystery, suspense, and crime, constructing a compelling storyline that never loses momentum. The author's attention to detail is evident throughout, whether depicting the gritty streets of Boston or the complex workings of the underground gambling scene.

Available on Audible

Get as a free audio book
Exploring the mysteries of the thin air

Furthermore, Parker skillfully addresses social and cultural issues in "Thin Air," adding depth and relevance to the narrative. The novel explores themes of privilege, corruption, and the lengths people will go to protect their reputation and wealth. These elements elevate the story beyond a typical detective novel, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.

In summary, "Thin Air" is an enthralling and entertaining read that will captivate both long-time fans of the Spenser series and newcomers to Parker's work. With its engaging characters, suspenseful plot, and compelling themes, the book exemplifies Parker's skill as a master storyteller. Whether encountering Spenser for the first time or embarking on another thrilling adventure with the beloved detective, "Thin Air" is certain to leave readers craving more.

What are readers saying?

The book "Thin Air" by Robert B. Parker has elicited a range of responses from readers, with some enjoying it while others felt it fell short of their expectations. Overall, the novel has an average rating of 3.84 out of 5 stars, capturing the diversity of opinions.

In the initial comments, many readers praised the fast pace and captivating nature of the story. They found the characters and thrilling plot to be engaging, with the suspense and action keeping them hooked from start to finish. Several reviewers also expressed delight in the return of beloved characters, as well as the presence of Parker's renowned strong dialogue and witty banter.

However, other readers expressed disappointment in the second paragraph, stating that "Thin Air" did not fully meet their expectations. Some felt that the storyline and character arcs lacked development, leaving the narrative feeling shallow. The ending, for some, was abrupt and unsatisfying. Additionally, a few readers commented that while the book was entertaining, it did not possess the depth and complexity seen in Parker's previous works.

Moving on, the third set of reviewers lauded Parker's seamless writing style and ability to create an immersive atmosphere in "Thin Air." They found the book to be an easy and enjoyable read, ideal for those seeking a quick and entertaining mystery. These readers particularly appreciated the author's skill at crafting vivid descriptions and painting a picture of the setting.

However, a few reviewers in the fourth paragraph criticized the lack of originality and formulaic nature of the plot. They felt that the story followed a predictable pattern, making it feel repetitive and devoid of surprises. Some readers also mentioned that the pacing of the novel was uneven, with certain sections feeling rushed or disjointed.

ThinAir MountaineeringThriller HighAltitudeMystery