From Publishers Weekly
A group of mysteries in one, Saratoga Bestiary builds up smoothly to a truly savage ending. First, a painting of a famous racehorse is stolen, and private investigator Charlie Bradshaw (in his fifth outing) is hired to deliver the ransom money. The painting isn't returned, and Bradshaw, despite being asked to desist, investigates the theft. A shopkeeper he likes is murdered, and he plunges into the caseagain, unasked. He is, however, requested to investigate the robbery of friends during a Superbowl gambling party. And it's then that the story's theme, gambling, draws together many different people and clues. Busy with all the investigations, Bradshaw is always half a step behind his suspects. But this keeps the story engaging and the reader well-entertained.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Dobyns returns to Charlie Bradshaw's Saratoga Springs ( Saratoga Snapper ), where a stolen painting of Man o' War, a heist from an illegal gambling party, and a murdered grocery store owner have something in common. While unearthing the intricate connectionsall of which lead to a very nasty villain who arranges pit bull dog fights and snuff videosCharlie ponders the "difficulties" of turning 50. The author handles this tangled web of gamblers and crooks with mastery, secure amidst well-established backdrops and series regulars. REK
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.