This time around, Scudder's in the cups while dealing with dead hookers, corrupt cops and people who will do anything for a book deal. In addition to giving us another case to solve, Block lets us look further into Scudder's life as we navigate the streets of 70s New York. He does a pretty phenomenal job of striking the balance between case and background. Block also brings back a character who I happen to love - gay bar owner and sometime informant, Kenny (just back from summering on Fire Island, of course). My love for Matthew Scudder only grows stronger.