The Burning Plain

Rating:
Summary: A good mix of 'Golden Boy' and 'How Town'
Review: MichaelNava is a brilliant man. He reveals the answers, but always has something cause doubt later. Just like real life. Henry Rios is back (in his sixth novel), and he just cannot stop playing 'Nancy Drew'. Henry is an excellent lawyer, but he would make an even better detective. This time around, Rios must prove his own innocence-then defend another man accused of the same crimes, or at least help to set up a defense. The twists begin. What makes this book better than the others is that the villain is developed very well. The problem is that getting to the conclusion starts to drag out, and I am not totally convinced. (The first 200 pages are fast. The final 100 pages become slow. Kind of like a movie trying to get every possible plot twist in.) The references to Dante's 'Inferno' are almost subliminal; I have never read Dante before-now I just might.

Rating:
Summary: I've got to get to sleep! I have work tomorrow!!!
Review: Needless to say this book was exemplary. I've read all of Michael's books and seen Michael develop as a writer and Henry Rios develop as a detective of sorts. There were several nights while I was reading this book where I didn't get to sleep until 1:30 A.M., eventhough I had to get up at 6:30A.M. "Burning Plain" was SO well written and gripping that I literally had to FORCE myself to put it away and get to sleep. There are few books, even from the so-called "bestselling writers," that write with such style and finesse. Every little detail is important and Michael fits them all together like a well constructed puzzle. I had my suspicions about the perpetrator but it really got me! There are many mystery writers and some famous ones that are highly overrated. Michael Nava is highly UNDERRATED and is not getting the following he deserves. If you want an excellent mystery, buy "The Burning Plain." You'll hunger for more of Michael Nava when you're done!

Rating:
Summary: another positive review
Review: This is the 3rd Nava book that I've so far read (Goldenboy and How Town being the others). I have to say that, over time, Nava's writing has improved considerably, as has control of his storylines. I now consider Nava to be one of the better mystery writers of our times. Needless to say, I highly recommend Burning Plain, especially if this is your first book by Nava or you are looking for an engaging mystery to read. Strong characters, complex plotlines, many memorable episodes, and on-going doses of humor and gay camp without being offensive or over the top. Interesting glimpses into Latino and gay culture. Not everything turns out positive in the end, but chalk it up to the gritty reality of life in Los Angeles (where the story is set). I read this over a 24-hour period--it was impossible to put down!