A Certain Malice [Paperback]

Jake Page (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1995

A bizarre murder leaves two teenagers dead in a desert arroyo, their naked bodies side by side, face up under the New Mexican sun. Near them, etched in stone, is a symbol unlike any Native American marking. What does it signify? The puzzle is made to order for Mo Bowdre's quirky and capacious intelligence. But Bowdre, a wildlife sculptor and occasional sleuth, may be in over his head, as he becomes embroiled in a possible case of ritual killing--and a certain malice. . . .


From the Paperback edition.

Editorial Reviews

From the Inside Flap

A bizarre murder leaves two teenagers dead in a desert arroyo, their naked bodies side by side, face up under the New Mexican sun. Near them, etched in stone, is a symbol unlike any Native American marking. What does it signify? The puzzle is made to order for Mo Bowdre's quirky and capacious intelligence. But Bowdre, a wildlife sculptor and occasional sleuth, may be in over his head, as he becomes embroiled in a possible case of ritual killing--and a certain malice. . . . --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From the Back Cover

"Jake Page is one of the Southwest's most distinguished writers."
--The Denver Post

"In a long tradition of oddball amateur detectives, the flamboyant Bowdre is a welcome addition. He's certainly offbeat and larger than life."
--L.A. Life

"Page's mysteries are standouts."
--The Houston Chronicle

"Move over, Tony Hillerman."
--The Seattle Times/Post-Intelligencer --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 292 pages
• Publisher: Ballantine Books (March 1, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0345472713
• ISBN-13: 978-0345472717
• Product Dimensions: 5.6 x 0.7 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.1 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,696,374 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3.0 out of 5 stars A great Mo Bowdre story...but the plot is left hanging, April 14, 2003

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: A Certain Malice (Mass Market Paperback)

I enjoy the Bowdre character immensely, and his meeting with a girl who claims to be his illegitimate daughter is an interesting one. However, other subplots (which start off as primary plots) are left unresolved or slammed shut with an announcement "they caught the guy who did it." It just seemed like a hasty wrap-up with no explanation or resolution on that part of the book. Mo does find out more about his daughter than he ever expected.

5.0 out of 5 stars Tragedies of madness revealed with style and compassion., August 23, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (New Mexico, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Certain Malice (Mass Market Paperback)

The story begins with a poeticly captivating and respectful description of a Hopi kiva ceremony. What a contrast to the cruel beliefs and rituals that lure Mo Bowdre into a perplexing and dangerous pursuit of truth. I continue to enjoy the caring and understanding relationship between Mo and his companion, Connie. Mo's efforts to deal with the complexities and responsibilities of an unexpected relationship were compelling. Jake Page is dealing with some gruesome and very tragic situations; but, he knows just when to lighten the mood by interjecting elements of humor and humility. I recommend this book highly.