The Glass Rainbow

A Dave Robicheaux Novel

By: James Lee Burke

Narrated by: Will Patton

From New York Times bestselling author James Lee Burke, Detective Dave Robicheaux becomes entangled in a mystery that connects a series of grisly murders with an ex-convict turned bestselling author, a notorious local pimp, and the man currently dating Robicheaux’s daughter.

On the trail of a killer responsible for the deaths of seven young women in neighboring Jefferson Davis parish, Detective Dave Robicheaux and his best friend Clete Purcel can’t seem to stay away from Herman Stanga, a notorious pimp whose name constantly resurfaces in their investigation, and whom both men despise. When Stanga turns up dead shortly after a fierce beating in front of numerous witnesses at the hands of Clete Purcel, the case takes a nasty turn, and solving the mystery of the Jefferson Davis deaths becomes more important than ever.

Adding to Robicheaux’s troubles is the matter of his adopted daughter, Alafair, on hiatus from Stanford Law for a semester and home in New Iberia to put the finishing touches on her novel. Her literary pursuit has led her into the arms of Kermit Abelard, celebrated novelist and scion of a once-prominent Louisiana family whose fortunes are slowly sinking into the bayous. In Robicheaux’s mind, Abelard’s association with a sleazy ex-convict turned bestselling author named Robert Weingart puts him at the center of some very shady business, and Robicheaux fears he’s taking Alafair down with him. But at the same time he fears for Alafair’s well-being—and possibly her life—she’s becoming more distant toward him, convinced his concerns are just the paranoia of an overprotective father. To protect his daughter and clear his best friend’s name, Robicheaux will need every ounce of guts, wit, and investigative chops he can muster.

From the Edgar Award–winning author of “one of America’s best mystery series” (Library Journal, starred review), James Lee Burke’s The Glass Rainbow is a “superlative” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) bayou thriller.

This is perhaps his best effort of all of the books.

This book includes all of his best qualities, character development, description, and philosophical ideas and a story that carries you along.

Great but not best

I don't agree with other reviewers that this was the best Robecheau book. Burkes writing was beautiful and Patton's naration was perfect.

However I thought the plot was a little over the top and dragged out. Pete and Dave must be in their 60s so the things they do are a bit hard to believe. Alafair had a run in with bad guys in a previous novel so her actions in this novel don't follow that experience.

Its still an excellent novel and worth the use of a credit especially if your a fan of burke and listened to all other of his novels.

Tin Roof Blow Down I believe is still the best Dave Robicheaux novel.

extraordinary author, amazing narrator

james lee burke has to be one of america's crown jewels. will patton brings mr. burke's writing to life. this is a hard tale to listen to as hard truths are told, with the sense of mortality almost a character. but really the combination of author and narrator are second to none in america. i often question why certain books make the best seller lists. there is no question here.

Almost perfect

Everyone is up to their old tricks and charms. The descriptions are beautiful, the characters well-rounded and like-able or perfectly hate-able. I read each of these faithfully because of all of these things. The stories and writing are rich and full and make other stories seem lacking. This particular book had a couple of moments where Dave is "saved" just a little to easily and a little to coincidentally. A couple of moments almost had a "Scooby-Doo, whew, that was close" feel to them. I hope Burke doesn't continue in that direct and instead keeps the flawed, human, reluctantly heroic heroes in tact.

Burke and Patton, The Perfect Combination!

I can't think of a better combination of author/performer. I just love the ride!