The Watchman

by: Robert Crais

Published by: Simon & Schuster

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

Usually it's Joe Pike who pops on the scene and helps Elvis Cole with a problem. But in Robert Crais' new novel, The Watchman, it's all about Joe Pike. And that's a good thing.

Joe Pike owes a man a favor. It's been a long time since he made this promise, but the agreement was that whenever the man called and whatever he asked for, Pike would agree to take the challenge.

Pike signs on to protect the life of Larkin Conner Barkley, a super-rich, super-spoiled (think Paris Hilton) woman who was in the wrong place at the wrong time and ended up in the witness protection program. But Larkin wasn't really protected. Prior to Pike showing up, several attempts were made on her life. It looked like an inside job.

Pike decides to take the difficult Larkin and fade into the landscape of Los Angeles and turn the tables on the hunter. He's going to hunt him. Joe's determination results in the body count increasing each day. He enlists Elvis Cole's help and they learn that nothing is as it seems--and no one is who they say they are. The biggest problem may be the woman they have to protect. She's not making things easy for Joe Pike.

I love the Elvis Cole novels, but I adore Joe Pike. The Watchman is gritty and fast-paced and the plot is intriguing. But it's Joe Pike and his story and relationship with Larkin Barkley that makes The Watchman sizzle.

Armchair Interviews says: A must read. It's a winner. You'll want more of Joe Pike.

Author's Web site: http://www.robertcrais.com