The Hadacol Boogie: A Dave Robicheaux Novel

Edgar winner Burke’s excellent latest adventure for Dave Robicheaux (after Clete) sees the Louisiana detective tangling with the proprietor of a lawless bayou enclave. The action begins in 1999, with a cloaked figure leaving a garbage bag containing the corpse of a young woman on Robicheaux’s property. As Robicheaux investigates, he worries that his poking around could endanger his adopted daughter, Alafair, who’s just returned home from college in Portland, Ore. The inquiry leads Robicheaux to the notorious Jerry Carlucci, a childhood acquaintance and fellow Vietnam vet. Carlucci owns a saloon and brothel, and has recently joined forces with a New Jersey mobster to build a casino nearby. The land the men have chosen, however, is believed to contain buried artifacts, including a rumored cache of Confederate gold that has drawn the attention of treasure seekers. Returning series characters include Valerie Benoit, a young, Black plainclothes detective staunchly devoted to social justice, and Boone Hendrix, an eccentric handyman. As always, Burke is a master of atmosphere and memorable characterization. This is a sure bet for series fans and newcomers alike. Agent: Anne-Lise Spitzer, Philip Spitzer Literary. (Feb.)