Raylan

Raylan (2012) by Elmore Leonard. This book is less a mystery than a showcase for lawman Raylan Givens, Leonard's creation who is known mainly for his willingness to shoot people. Givens never shoots anyone who doesn't deserve it, so that is some comfort. This story is made up of an interesting trio of interlocking tales, each involving a different bad guy (or gal), and each finding quick resolution from the barrel of Givens' gun. Leonard is a master of real-sounding dialogue, and he creates vivid and memorable characters in settings of drug dealing, horse racing, and organ theft -- not to mention bank robbing. This was an enjoyable book and a quick read. Not great literature, but certainly diverting. Grade: B+