Dust

Who else can write about the intricacies of human behavior (and pet behavior LOL) so deftly? Who else can keep her series so interesting for so long? Probably the only other persn who can do this, but differently, is the creator of Harry Bosch.

I have not read many books by Martha Grimes: besides this book, perhaps only Foul Matter and I am the Only Running Footman. So, I can't comment on the consistency of the series. I liked those novels, however, and enjoyed this one just as much. The plot is well-done and remains clear in spite of a profusion of sub-plots. I enjoyed the sub-plots no less than the main plot. Particularly fun is the banter between old friends and associates: Grimes has written many books about Jury, Plant, and their friends. This book succeeds in giving the impression that these relationships have deepened over the years. At several points, I laughed out loud. I also appreciated that the book's conclusion required a bit of effort on my part to put things together. Finally, although I am no James-ophile, the frequent references to his books added to this book's charm. MG clearly enjoys his work.

Due to some truly negative reviews from other readers, I was a bit leery of reading Grimes' latest in her Jury series, DUST. However, I decided to see what all the brouhaha was about--and I am so glad that I did! Yes, I also admit that I was shocked at Jury's behavior and language--but only for about three seconds. This conflicted Jury who questions his own sanity (and uses colorful language to express his inner turmoil), is believable and real. He KNOWS that his recent behavior will complicate his life --if not his very career-yet he is unable to(or chooses not to) stop his behavior. Shocking as this might be to longtime Jury fans, I find, nevertheless, that his behavior adds a complexity and a maturity to Jury's character AND Grimes' writing as well. I do understand those, however, who find this Richard Jury not much to their liking: It IS disconcerting to find our hero less than perfect! But who among us is perfect? We are complex creatures and this Jury is proof of that. I suspect as well, that many fans are bothered more by his choice of one partner in particular, rather than his generally unprofessional behavior (to put it politely). I don't find this new, particular character likable, either. Nevertheless, in my opinion, Jury's infatuation with this character adds interest to his character and the storyline. Therefore, I cannot wait to see how Jury (or Grimes) develops it: Will Jury continue to be governed by his passions--or will rationality rule the day? As to the mystery itself, I won't divulge much since others may not have read the novel, Suffice to say; I found it as absorbing as others in the series. I also liked very much that the motive - the previous act which precipitates the actual crime--was not handed to us; rather, readers had to (at least I did) put the pieces together. Once I did so, it was eminently satisfying. Truly, isn't that how one should feel after any good read, particularly a mystery? One other thing: DUST does more than satisfy this mystery buff. As a novel, it also provokes--and that ain't bad at all. :)

I can understand why people didn't like the book. It seems to me that the issue wasn't that the book wasn't well written, it is that Jury...our beloved Jury, is screwing around!! He is cheating on Dr. Nancy! I really think that upset a lot of folks, I know I didn't like reading about it, not a moral code I have, but more of a "I want Jury to someday find real happiness" wish. I enjoy Plant and characters other than Jury tremendously, so it doesn't bother me if Jury's plotline takes a break(I actually like Plant better). There are so many interesting inhabitants of Grimes' books to keep one entertained while Jury is off having "fun". I thought that the book was a good one, and if you become upset when Richard Jury takes off his "perfect man" cape, then you won't like this one....but Jury has taken a break before, most recently in a hospital bed, and fans pounded their fists on the table then.....so here we go again. The book is a good read, and if you are really into the Jury books , and the other characters, you will enjoy it!

In this review, I would like to depart from the status quo by NOT revealing any spoilers, apparently a novel concept when dealing with this book. Martha Grimes writes children and dogs better than anyone else ever has, and there are plenty of both in this book. The thoughts and asides of the characters are laugh-out-loud funny, and positively inspirational; I mean, days when the tractor won't start and you discover you've run out of checks are easier if you just think "what would a Martha Grimes character think?" And, in a brilliant strategy for dealing with those who read the last few pages first to find out who dunnit, Ms. Grimes doesn't spell it out; one has to actually read the book and pay attention. Comparable in complexity and emotional satisfaction to Colin Dexter's much-missed novels, "Dust" is probably more reminiscent of the otherworldly aspects of Grimes' non-Jury novels. The best thing about the book, as with all of her stories, though, is the way the characters think.