Crooked    by Brian M. Wiprud Order:  USA  Can Dell, 2006 (2006) Paperback, e-Book     Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth What a delight of a book. I knew when I started the first page I would be in for a good read. Brian Wiprud's first book, Stuffed, was a winner and I looked forward to more of the same. I was not disappointed. Be prepared to laugh out loud. It's clever. Outrageous. Pure fun. Nicholas Palihnic is a hustler who knows the ins and outs of every deal. He is hired by an insurance company to locate stolen art. That's where the fun begins - as well as intriguing back room glimpses into the art world. Palihnic uncovers Beatrice Belarus, a Manhattan art dealer with an insatiable lust for money - hers or anyone else's. The plot whirls along as the reader is treated to Wiprud's off-beat sense of humor. Action is well spaced and is entirely unpredictable. Crooked is hard hitting with no holds barred, and the characters are worth meeting - at least in print. 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