In Dog We Trust
By Neil Plakcy
ISBN: 2940000889596
Ebook available from
Amazon, Smashwords, B&N.
Steve Levitan is a convicted
felon. Through a lapse in internal discipline, he did a little computer hacking
and soon found himself in prison. Released on parole, he returns to his home,
Bucks county, Pennsylvania, where he obtains a position as a part time faculty,
teaching English at a local college.
His marriage fell apart, which is
another factor setting up everything that follows, murder, car chases, odd and
interesting characters, such as a sort of hard guy named Santiago, Steve’s
parole officer, and a couple of cops, one of whom is a long-time school buddy
of Steve.
Then there is the dog. Who names
their dog Rochester? The dog belonged to a dead woman, and dog and Steve bond
almost immediately, although both seem to have serious issues with authority.
Without revealing too much, this
is a very “now” detective novel, delving into computer and other crime. How closely
do you read your credit card statements? The novel is well written, smooth and
interesting. It’s always good when a crime novel teaches or reminds readers of
information they should know. This story does that, without preaching or
lapsing into lecturing. The classroom scenes and internal dialogues regarding student
attitudes are authentic. For anyone who enjoys a jaundiced look at small
college academic life, this novel is a pleasure to read on another level.
Everything about this novel
smacks of a professional, polished approach. The writing is smooth, the
characters well developed, and they stay in character. The plot has been
carefully laid out and proceeds at a good pace. It’s conclusion is satisfying.
Then there’s the dog, Rochester.
Dog lovers will be pleased to
know that the author refrains from anthropomorphizing the dog. Undeniably
talented, Rochester is helpful throughout the novel, but only in naturally
occurring, that is, doggy ways. “In Dog We Trust” is a completely enjoyable way
to spend a reading afternoon.
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