Lawrence Block is a hugely prolific writer--humor, teaching how to write, short stories and more. Here he showcases the darker side of his personality. The Scudder books are set in a New York City that is, perhaps, more depraved than the real thing. His detective usually runs around asking questions, getting nowhere, and so, going back to the same people again and asking more questions. He really manages to convey the boring repetitive nature of investigative work. Bu the payoff is coming, the reader knows. And what a payoff! Block is a master!