Customer Reviews

The Mercy of the Puddles

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Who knew the world of Greek antiquities could be so riveting? In The Mercy of the Puddles, Ron Gillespie offers readers a tightly-plotted, fast-paced, good old-fashioned yarn--all too rare in these (dumb-as-a)post-modern times. Set in present-day New York, the story revolves around a valuable ancient vase that's found its way to the Metropolitan Museum via Switzerland. Or is it stolen property? And what about those strange markings on its base? All excellent questions and our hero, Fred Munson, makes it his personal crusade to find the answers. There's playfulness in Gillespie's prose that cleverly counterpoints the technicalities of ancient artifacts and modern computers. In less capable hands these passages might have been convoluted and plodding. Instead, they add another dimension to the plot line and tease readers with more than just a desire to know how it will all end. Rounding out the novel is a great cast of characters. This intense bunch of neurotic New Yorkers is headed up by Fred and his wife Helen. Not since Nick and Nora Charles has there been a more intriguing couple. Maybe there's even a new, 21st century "Thin Man" here? If so, Gillespie's believable and superbly timed dialogue could be a script writer's dream. From the world weary musings of a Greek archeologist to the street smart, subject-free banter of native New Yorkers, here is where the novel shines. In short: Gotta tell ya. Great little book