Last Laugh

Earlier this year I picked up a copy of a book entitled "The Lost Scout" by John R. Riggs on a remainder table in a book store. I had never heard of Mr. Riggs until then, and I found out that 13 of these novels were written between 1984 and 1998. I think the prime reason I hadn't heard of him is the fact that all his novels were published by minor publishing companies. Since "The Lost Scout" is the last of the Ryland novels, I decided to start at the beginning of the series with "The Last Laugh". Garth Ryland is a fortyish newspaper editor for the Oakalla (Wisconsin) Reporter. Si Buckles, Oakalla's practical joker, is dead. Garth goes to the funeral, but later finds a note at his house that says "Si Buckles lives." Phil Chesterson, a friend of Si's kills himself for reasons no one knows. Then Dr. Fran Baldwin commits suicide. Several people, including the lovely Diana, Fran's wife and Garth's dear friend, see Si Buckles walking around. Is Si really dead? Could it be that he was buried alive as a joke? Has a murder occurred? This is not a typical mystery novel. In fact it is not only a "who-done-it?" but a "what has been done to whom?" as well. I really enjoyed reading this novel. It is set in small town America, and is quite a bit of fun. I look forward to reading the rest of these novels!