"A Drink Before The War"

"A Drink Before The War" (winner of the Shamus Award) by Dennis Lehane is the novel where he introduces Patrick Kenzie and Angela Gennaro -- a couple of private investigators who are smart, tough, and good friends. Since this is the first in a series about these investigators, we're introduced to their personal life and friendship and I like that in depth background information that brings the characters to life. When Kenzie takes on the task of finding a missing cleaning woman for some powerful Boston politicians, Gennaro isn't too happy. As it turns out, the theft this woman has been accused of is more complex than it would appear at first glance. Kenzie and Gennaro find themselves embroiled in murder and scandal and have to find a way to dig themselves out without becoming victims, too. It's an engrossing read and I look forward to the next book in this series.

pazt