My first brief introduction to the books of John Connolly. Will now seek him out to see what all the fuss is about as I liked what I read.

While it's difficult to judge a book from a short excerpt (the reason I held back from giving a full 5-star rating) I have to say that I am very impressed and intrigued by what I've read.

I particularly enjoyed the "word picture" that Mr. Connolly painted in the readers mind when describing the effect of winter on Charlie Parker (I've had more than a few injuries myself and can completely relate). As well as the comment on the "carefully cultivated exercise in nostalgia." that seems to be so prevalent.

Since I merely read an excerpt, I will NOT be posting a review on any sites at this time. I anticipate that I will likely buy the title (A Game of Ghosts) and review it in full at that time.

The beginning captured my interest. I would most likely read this book based on the beginning.

I received only an excerpt .. Chapter 1 only ... of this latest Charlie Parker thriller.

Since I have not read all the previous books, I felt a little left out in the cold. And with only one chapter to read, there is a lot left to desire.

Charlie Parker meets his employer, Edgar Ross, an FBI Agent, in a restaurant in the middle of winter. Almost the entire first chapter is descriptive of the weather, and lamenting his numerous aches and pains and old wounds.

The two men have a drink and order their dinner and then make small talk until the food arrives. And then Parker asks the question .... Why am I here?

This could have been any number of books. I found nothing compelling that would draw me in and keep me involved in the story line. I am sure that a fan of this author would not agree.

To explain my rating --- It is so difficult to rate an entire book on only one chapter. Unless it was an explosive beginning or a dreadful beginning, I feel it fair to put it right in the middle and let readers of the entire book be the judge.

Many thanks to the author / Atria Books / Netgalley for the excerpt of this novel. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.