Robert B. Parker's Cheap Shot: A Spencer Novel    by Ace Atkins Order:  USA  Can Putnam, 2015 (2014) Hardcover, Paperback, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth I always knew I was in for a great read whenever I picked up a Spencer novel by Robert B. Parker. I mourned that exciting writer when I heard of his passing. And also mourned for myself because I thought there would no longer be any more Spencer books. I loved the author's sense of humor; Spencer's relationship with Susan; his close friendship with Hawk. Spencer's loyalty to Henry Cimoli impressed me. The PI's concern for his young friend Zebulon Sixkill – Z - was good for several points in Spencer's favor. Imagine my delight when I discovered that Parker's family had chosen award-winning author Ace Atkins to continue the Spencer series. Atkins has been able to write as Parker did – using Spencer's crisp outlook on life; his self-confidence; his love of good food and drink; his respect for Susan's place in the world and his heart. Atkins has even resurrected Spencer's wonder dog Pearl. The plot of Cheap Shot involves Kinjo Heywood, a major player for the New England Patriots. Kinjo is no saint, but no one deserves to have his small son kidnapped. Kinjo is willing to pay any amount of money to have his son delivered back to his arms. Ransom demands are made, but it seems as though many unconnected to the kidnapping desire to be in on the big payoff. Cheap Shot is another excellent entry in the Spencer series. Ace Atkins is a recognized, Edgar-nominated author in his own right and has many book titles to his name. With Cheap Shot, he has continued the Spencer series without a break in continuity. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews