Sanford is one of the few American mystery writers who can actually write. Crais, Lehane, a few others maybe, but too many seem to be putting their names on stuff written by aspiring English majors who went to too many writing workshops. Rant off, sorry.

But Virgil is always fun, ever ready with a felicitous turn of phrase, like "she had a fondness for little white truck driver pills she bought from little white truck drivers." And later, over a cheeseburger and fries after being on the receiving end of a major asskicking, he feels guilty: "When you get released from a hospital, shouldn't you eat something healthy? Lettuce or something?" ROFL

Eric Conger's narration is pitch perfect -- one of those magic books (in this case, a whole series) where the audio version is way better than reading it yourself.

This started out as a great story and had me glued to my iPod until the story started to wrap up. I felt Virgil's anger at the actions of the local law enforcement officials. I looked forward to additional confrontations with Ag Murphy's husband. Despite the revelation at the conclusion of the book, I felt like I had been cheated by the way Sandford wrapped things up. It seemed like the author got tired of writing the book and created an ending that took the least amount of effort and words. With that said, I like Virgil Flowers and his passion in this novel will have me looking forward to the next installment. I just hope that Sandford spends more time with the complete story.

Yes. Great plot twists.

Absolutely, I kept trying to stay on step ahead of Virgil and the gang but...whew it was hard work.

I'm liking the Virgil Flowers series with a touch of Davenport now and then. Some narrators fit so well that they become the character for me. Eric Conger simply fits Virgil. I like the down to earth touch.

I would give this 3 1/2 stars if I could and Eric Confer turns in his expected laudable performance. This is just a decent entry compared to Sandford's best, though.

That said, Mad River is superior to most police procedurals/mysteries that come out. I love John Sandford's books and find them a great, light reading experience. While this isn't his best, I'd still recommend it.

As other reviewers have stated, it's not your typical Virgil Flowers. The story line just makes you miss any of the prior novels

Skillful writing and wonderful narration.

I am captivated by this protagonist. I have read all the Virgil Flowers books and he is just such an interesting "hero". He is not a super tough guy although he can certainly take care of himself. He is a philosopher of sorts. His childhood as a preacher's son in a solid middle class family adds an interesting depth to the detective role. In some ways he reminds me of Columbo. He just ambles about asking questions until we get an insight into his keen mind. This time he is after a trio of young homicidal maniacs. Sandford has a way of making his characters come to life for me.

Virgil.

I loved that Virgil ignored what was professionally good for him and politically correct to stand up for what was right.

This is a great series. Read them all.

This was a great listen. There were a couple "turns" in the story I didn't see coming. As usualy, John Sandford didn't dissapoint.

This story was predictable and never engaged me. I was just waiting for the end so I could get on to another book. The primary trouble was the lack of character development and sufficient dramatic tension. I kept waiting for the contradictions, the unknown to appear. Everything was just so expected. Narration also lack characterization skill and a sense of real presence with the character. Overall, quite dull. I am not anxious to listen to another of Sandford's tales.

Virgil is my favorite John Sanford character and Eric Conger brings him to life. I listen as much for Eric's performance as I do the storyline which was okay. All in all, I enjoyed the book very much.