(8.00)236 pages. Includes sample chapters for Quarry's Cut.
The Quarry series has grown from the original four novels, eventually finding an audience and a third republishing. This novel, originally titled The Dealer, is one of the original four, and follows Quarry's List in the storyline.
Quarry (not his real name) was once a hitman, but now he has the master list of hitmen, and his idea is to track a hitman, find their target, then offer his services to the target. This is his first attempt, and since it is winter, he's chosen to drop in on a hitman based on Florida. Well, hitwoman in this case.
Now he's living in the same beachfront apartment complex, having taken some female companionship as cover, and he's watching the woman code-named Ivy, now going by Glenna, and her boyfriend…
After some sex and violence, the story moves to a 'social club' on the outskirts of Des Moines where some drinking and gambling is taking place. Ivy – now Lucille – is the new bartender, and is obviously surveilling the club's owner. But hitmen work in teams, so who is her partner? Who wants someone dead? How does this fit in with the incompetent card dealer, the repertory actress, the psychological hospital, and whoever broke the light with Quarry's face?
I liked this one, as it kept me wondering right down to the end. It's more mystery than assassin-type action this time, as Quarry shows occasional restraint (and gets lucky). Collins is a skilled writer telling the story from Quarry's perspective in first-person mode, and is entertaining, amusing, and provides the occasional nod to the time period.
Due to the subject matter, the novel is not suited for children, or those who object to descriptions of sex and violence.
Can you game it? No, but the plot might give you some ideas to steal for your own campaigns.
I like this series, and I found this to be a solid entry that I enjoyed. It also shows Quarry at an interesting point in his storyline.
Reviewed by 
Editor in Chief Bill 
.