Chicago is Michael Kelly’s home turf, and in the past two novels in the series, some historical incident is the basis for the plot. This, the third in the series, is no exception. In February, 1977, four cars on the El derailed and plunged to the street below and 11 persons died as a result. In the story related in this mystery, Kelly was on board the elevated train when a similar accident occurred when he was nine years of age and his father was the conductor. So much for similarities.
Chicago at the present time is terrorized by a sniper, who apparently kills at random. Then there are other acts seemingly aimed at the population in general and Kelly, a former cop and present pi, in particular. The Chicago PD and the FBI are at sea, and it remains for Kelly to unravel the mystery (or mysteries, since there appears to be more than one).
Harvey writes with a tough tone, reflecting the character of his protagonist. His descriptions of Chicago, and more important, its politics, is to the point. Kelly is one determined character. The novel is a quick and good read and is recommended.
