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MISSON FLATS refers to a non-existent bad neighborhood on the fringes of Boston. Ben Truman is the sheriff of a small town in Maine. He originally wanted to be a history professor; however, due to his mother’s illness, he became a police officer like his father. The body of a powerful Boston district attorney is found murdered in an abandoned cabin. Although the murder occurred in Maine, the Boston police take over the case, since most likely the murder was the result of something the DA was investigating. In addition, they are positive that the murderer is Harold Braxton, who has a bad reputation in Mission Flats. Truman is not willing to be left in the dark. After some thought, he decides to go to Boston and help find the murderer. He takes with him Jon Kelly, a former Boston homicide detective. Kelly’s experience will hopefully help Truman overcome his lack of experience. But is Truman truly as clueless as he portrays himself? Why was the DA in Maine to begin with? What secrets might be forced into the open with this case? Truman must help the police find their suspect before anyone else is murdered. Ron Livingston, who has appeared in movies such as Office Space as well as TV shows and HBO specials, reads MISSION FLATS. Livingston does an excellent job in his portrayal of the characters. As the CD begins, it seems as though Livingston’s style will make the book drag; however, as it progresses, Ben Truman and the other characters seem to come alive. The fact that the book was written in first person helps to explain how Livingston successfully manages to capture the feel of Truman. In addition, he has a knack for accents and other stylistic quirks, which leave the listening on the edge of his or her chair. This book is amazingly solid for a first book. The characters are well developed and seem realistic. Truman is a flawed character; yet, there is something about him that is appealing. There is an underlying sense of humor that is vital to this book's success. The humor is sarcastic; yet, still accomplishes its purpose to relive tension and suspense. In addition, the slang that is used is modern and up to date. None of the street characters seem unrealistic in their speech. Admittedly, there are some flaws to the book, as there are to all books; however, it this book is an example of what to expect from Landy, he should rival the success of big name authors such as Grisham. There are numerous subplots and other twists to MISSION FLATS. Rather than detract from the story line, these elements merely seem to make the story stronger. It takes a strong and talented writer to use them successfully. Yes, the plot is almost convoluted; however, Landy has the ability to make this seem vital to the story itself. It is as if this murder could not be solved without all of the history and baggage and tangents included in the story. Landy holds the book together until all is reveled in the end. MISSION FLATS is the debut novel by William Landy. As a former prosecutor, he has first hand experience with the police and criminal law.
Reviewed by Sarah Dudley, September 2003
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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)
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