As readers of my reviews most certainly realize, I read and enjoy books from many different genres. However, if I had to choose just one type of book, there's no question that the mystery would be my choice. A talented mystery writer must demonstrate a deep and nuanced understanding of human nature; otherwise, the reader simply won't go along for the ride. He or she usually must also have the ability to craft an intriguing puzzle which will keep the reader turning pages until the very last one has been read. Such a mystery is "Lieberman's Thief," an entry in Stuart Kiminsky's series about police officer Abe Lieberman. Right away, the reader knows that there is nothing predictable about this book. We meet George (Pitty-Pitty) Patniks, a burglar who has spent the past couple of weeks planning to rob a home. His research showed that the husband and wife who lived in the house would be out that evening attending one event in a subscription concert series. What he didn't count on is that the homeowner was also making plans. Those plans involved a complex plan to kill his wife on that very same evening. So, as George is robbing the house, the couple come home and George hides in the pantry in order not to be discovered, but, as you would expect, these two crimes become quite connected. And that's just the beginning of this thrilling ride! I've read Kaminsky's short stories before, but I don't believe I've tried any other entries in this series. That is certainly something I'll have to remedy. This was an excellent read which kept me intrigued from start to finish.
A thief witnesses a murder while robbing a house. Unable to get the murder victim out of his mind, he paints a picture of the scene.Meanwhile, the murderer calls the police and asks for Lieberman by name to solve the crime of his wife's murder.The story revolves around how Lieberman and his partner, Bill Hanrahan solve the problem, along with little subplots surrounding their lives.Kaminsky writes wonderful characters, and the subplots and insights into their lives are what makes thse books really enjoyable.
Do You like book Lieberman's Thief (1996)?
I'd guess it's been close to 20 years since I last read a Lieberman, and I'd forgotten how the 60-something Jewish detective series was beginning to grow on me. And how ideal and subtle a showcase it is for Kaminsky's mastery... of economy, of plotting, of the human condition. In under 200 pages, there are probably two dozen characters and half a dozen subplots, every bit of which handled to perfection. I'd thought of this as a silly minor series, but am really beginning to rethink that position.
—grundoon
