Spenser: A Mysterious Profile

By Robert B. Parker

The Boston PI agrees to an interview in this entertaining blend of short story and biographical profile by the legendary mystery author.
 
Spenser and his psychologist girlfriend, Susan, are relaxing in a courtyard on a lovely June afternoon. But accompanying them is Susan’s friend Amy, and she’s got a project: a book examining the men in risky professions—cops, firemen, special forces soldiers . . . and PIs. Requesting some help in her research, she peppers Spenser with questions. This short work by the New York Times–bestselling author of the Spenser series follows the stories he tells in his inimitable style, on topics ranging from his childhood to his personal relationships to, most intriguingly, what gets him up every morning to take on the bad guys once again.
 
“The toughest, funniest, wisest, private eye in the field.” —Houston Chronicle
 
“Spenser probably had more to do with changing the private eye from a coffin-chaser to a full-bodied human being than any other detective hero.” —Chicago Sun-Times
 
Previously published in the collection In Pursuit of Spenser

• Language: English
• Publisher: MysteriousPress.com Open Road
• Release date: May 24, 2022
• ISBN: 9781504074513

Robert B. Parker

Robert B Parker was the best-selling author of over 60 books, including Small Vices, Sudden Mischief, Hush Money, Hugger Mugger, Potshot, Widows Walk, Night Passage, Trouble in Paradise, Death in Paradise, Family Honor, Perish Twice, Shrink Rap, Stone Cold, Melancholy Baby, Back Story, Double Play, Bad Business, Cold Service, Sea Change, School Days and Blue Screen. He died in 2010 at the age of 77.

Book preview

Spenser

A Mysterious Profile

Robert B. Parker

Spenser

Susan and I sat at a table in the Charles Square courtyard, having a drink in the late afternoon with Susan’s friend Amy Trent. It was one of those days in late June. The temperature was about 78. There were maybe three white clouds in the sky. The quiet breeze that drifted in from the river smelled fresher than I knew it to be.

I’m trying to write a book, Amy said. "The working title is Men Who Dare, a series of profiles of men who are strong and tough and do dangerous work. Mountain climbers, Navy Seals, policemen, firemen."

Amy needs a sample profile to submit with her proposal, in hopes of getting a contract and an advance, Susan said. I said you’d be perfect.

Amy’s looking for sexual splendor as well? I said. Amy smiled.

Always, she said. Will you talk with me?

Sure, I said.

Okay, I have a bunch of questions written down, Amy said. You can answer them, dismiss them, respond to a question I didn’t ask, anything you want, I’m interested in what you’re like. Okay?

Okay.

Susan, feel free to jump in any time, Amy said. You know him better than anyone.

Don’t rat me out,