by Sarah Terzo

Created on: February 20, 2009

The Evolution of a Hit Man

Pros: Witty narrative and riveting story

Cons: You have to root for a mass murderer, which may be troubling for some

What is it that is so appealing about rooting for the bad guy? Whether it's a vigilante crime-fighter, a vengeful assassin, or a hit man who takes out Mafia dons, there is something appealing about following the exploits of characters who break the law to met out justice with their own hands. Perhaps we like to live vicariously through these characters. In any case, Quarry, the Vietnam veteran hit man created by Max Allan Collins, is a classic anti-hero, and his adventures are riveting.

The man identified only as Quarry has cut his teeth on killing as a sniper in Vietnam. He came home to find the love of his life shacked up with another man. After beating the rap for killing this man, Quarry attracted the attention of the Broker- a smooth, sophisticated professional who grooms new contract killers and sets them up with work. The Broker has a challenging assignment for the young Quarry- assassinate a college professor in a small college town. As per arrangement, the client who has ordered the murder is kept secret.

Quarry, however, doesn't really like secrets- and doesn't like complications either. Unfortunately, he is soon up to his neck in both. Professor Byron turns out to be a womanizing adulterer, and Quarry, through a series of coincidences, finds himself involved with both the man's wife and his main mistress. Factor in a jealous boyfriend, a Mafia turf war, and a manuscript that could bring a great deal of trouble to some very powerful people, and Quarry has his hands full.

One of the things that made The First Quarry so appealing was the witty style of narration. Quarry narrates the story, and his insights and style of speaking make every detail interesting. Also, Quarry is wonderfully resourceful- just when you think he has been backed into a corner, trapped in an impossible situation with no way out, he comes up with an ingenious way of surviving. Add to this the satisfaction of some very gruesome killings of some very unpleasant people, and you have a really fun book.

Sometimes it's fun to root for the bad guy. My only regret about The First Quarry is that it is short- only 204 pages. These are 204 great pages though, and at the trade paperback price, The Last Quarry is definitely worth every penny.

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