"A thinking man's detective takes on a cold case.... An exciting, well-written detective noir whose final twist raises it far above the ordinary." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Superior.... Fans of Robert B. Parker's Spenser will relate to Darvelle, with his nuanced view of humanity and a loving partner to keep him honest." -- Publishers Weekly

"Engaging.... The pleasure here is in joining Darvelle as he trolls between L.A. and La Jolla... breaking for ping-pong and beer, and staying with this intriguing mystery until he solves it." -- Booklist

"Readers yearning to get away to sunny Los Angeles will relish this new installment in Michael Craven's John Darvelle series." -- Bookish.com, "Hottest Releases"

Praise for The Detective & the Pipe Girl: "[A] suspenseful, well-plotted neo-noir set in L.A.... Readers will want to see more of Darvelle--a quirky, thoughtful detective with a wry sense of humor and a philosophical bent. Though serious about his work, he doesn't take himself too seriously." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"A detective with a philosophical bent has echoes of notably introspective California sleuths from Phillip Marlowe to Harry Bosch. Extensive descriptions of greater LA provide a suitable backdrop for a complex mystery." -- Kirkus Reviews

"This is the type of mystery that fans will cheer for.... Readers who miss the real, gritty, 'Elmore Leonard'-type detectives with gut instincts will love this one.... The only thing to say here is: Mr. Craven, bring John Darvelle back! -- Suspense Magazine

"A terrific, fast-paced read. Michael Craven has captured perfectly the forbidden and deadly atmosphere of Hollywood at its darkest and deadliest.... We are hopeful that this is the start of a series.... Fans of the great Elmore Leonard, Philip Marlow, and Jim