"That Old Scoundrel Death" is the 25th and last book to feature one of my favorite characters of mystery fiction, Sheriff Dan Rhodes. Bill Crider was claimed by that old scoundrel death last year. He will certainly be missed by me.
If you have never read one of the Dan Rhodes mysteries, you are in for a treat. They are a blend of police procedural and homespun humor. "That old scoundrel death" opens with Rhodes stopping to investigate a road rage incident. The story progresses to a fight over a historic schoolhouse and ends in a murder investigation.
We find the usual cast of characters Dan Rhodes, his wife Ivy, Seepy Benton, Ruth, Hack and Lawton. Add to this cast feuding families, meth heads, and a murder victim who gave folks different names and Blacklin County is in an uproar. Fortunately, the sheriff is up to the task.
This book might be a little slower in places. The humor might be a bit muted. It is still a worthy read. I give it my five star rating.
So long, Sheriff Rhodes...Rest in Peace, Bill. Thank you for many hours of reading enjoyment over the years.
