About the Author

David Handler is the author of the highly praised Stewart Hoag series, which won him an Edgar nomination and an Edgar. He is coauthor (under a nom de plume) of the thriller "Gideon." The first book in his new series featuring Berger and Mitry, "The Cold Blue Blood," was published in 2001. Handler lives in Connecticut in a town somewhat like the fictional Dorset.

Reviews

"The best type of mystery to curl up with on a rainy day: good characters, a complex plot, and always a lot of fun." -Phillip Margolin, author of "The Associate" and "Ties That Bind"
"Handler so understands the country and writes so humorously about the drama and minutiae of village life. He has created a passionate and tender crime-solving team in Mitch and Des...a delightful and thrilling mystery." -Luanne Rice, author of "True Blue" and "Safe Harbor"
"Handler has created an engaging odd couple, whose further adventures promise to win the same strong following as his Stewart Hoag series." -"Publishers Weekly"
"The style in this book is smooth with tightly woven scenes and believable dialogue. Hangtown Frye is a uniquely lovable character...who stays true to himself throughout the whole novel. I recommend this book if you are looking for an enthralling read." -"Mystery News"

New York film critic Mitch Berger (first introduced in The Cold Blue Blood) loves his adopted Connecticut village of Dorset, where conflicts have arisen between proponents of new growth and keepers of the old traditions. Mitch and lover Des (Desiree) Mitry, a black resident trooper, become involved in another murder case when they separately encounter eccentric scrap-metal artist Hangtown Frye; his elder daughter "Moose," a school teacher who opposes development; and younger daughter Takai, a real estate maven. When someone murders one of the daughters, Mitch and Des both investigate. With super characters, tantalizing prose, and great plot, this will not leave readers wanting. Highly recommended for most collections. Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.

"The best type of mystery to curl up with on a rainy day: good characters, a complex plot, and always a lot of fun." -Phillip Margolin, author of "The Associate" and "Ties That Bind"
"Handler so understands the country and writes so humorously about the drama and minutiae of village life. He has created a passionate and tender crime-solving team in Mitch and Des...a delightful and thrilling mystery." -Luanne Rice, author of "True Blue" and "Safe Harbor"
"Handler has created an engaging odd couple, whose further adventures promise to win the same strong following as his Stewart Hoag series." -"Publishers Weekly"
"The style in this book is smooth with tightly woven scenes and believable dialogue. Hangtown Frye is a uniquely lovable character...who stays true to himself throughout the whole novel. I recommend this book if you are looking for an enthralling read." -"Mystery News"