Review of "Sixkill," by Robert B. Parker

 Review of

Sixkill, by Robert B. Parker ISBN 9780399157264

Five out of five stars

New sidekick, not quite hawk

 This is the last Spenser novel written by Parker and in it he introduces a new sidekick for Spenser, a Cree Native American called Zebulon Sixkill. Sixkill was born of alcoholic parents and was raised by his grandfather. A large man with substantial athletic skills, Sixkill left college in disgrace and is now working as an on-set bodyguard for Jumbo Nelson, an actor that more than fits his bad-boy image.

 When a young woman is reported dead by strangulation in Jumbo’s hotel room, the logical conclusion is that he killed her. However, Quirk finds that premise questionable and when Rita Fiore is hired to represent Jumbo, they agree that Spenser should look into it.

 When Spenser encounters Jumbo, Sixkill is working as his bodyguard and is ordered to physically remove Spenser. While Sixkill is large and relatively capable, he is no match for Spenser and after he loses, Jumbo fires him. For reasons known only to Spenser, he takes Sixkill under his wing and begins training and educating him in the skills needed to be a professional tough guy.

 Like all Spenser cases, this one turns out to be far more complicated than it first appears. Spenser’s standard brusque manner irritates powerful and ruthless people, leading to physical and armed confrontations. With the assistance of his new sidekick, Spenser once again emerges victorious.

 Since this was the last Spenser novel penned by Parker, one is left wondering what direction he planned on going regarding the relative positions of Hawk and Sixkill in Spenser’s professional life. This story maintains the high standards of plot development and witty dialog that is Parker’s trademark. Every plot point fits into a logical consistency and the reader never is put into the position of asking, “Where did that come from?” It is hard to put down once you open it.