A Religion Of Revenge (Press, 14 February 1987)

In the 1987 review of "Flood" by Andrew H. Vachas, the story unfolds in New York City, centring on Burke, a private investigator who navigates through a brutal and morally corrupt urban landscape. His office resembles a fortress, underscoring his need for protection in a world teeming with danger and depravity. Accompanied by his large mastiff Pansy, Burke is surrounded by an eclectic cast of characters that adds depth to the narrative. Notable figures include The Mole, a Jewish recluse of genius intellect who resides in a cave beneath a junkyard and is proficient in modifying telephone systems while guarded by aggressive street dogs. The Prophet is described as a near-dwarf adept at deception, while Michelle, a transvestite trans-sexual prostitute, possesses an unexpectedly kind heart. Additionally, Max the Silent, Burke's blood brother and a Tibetan martial arts master, commands the respect and fear of many. The plot takes a darker turn with the introduction of Flood, a small and fearless female who seeks Burke's assistance in tracking down The Cobra, a sadistic former Vietnam soldier responsible for the tragic murder of her friend’s child. The Cobra's associate, Goldor, thrives on inflicting pain and creates disturbing snuff films that revolve around pedophilia. In stark contrast, Flood turns her anguish into a ruthless obsession with revenge. Despite the grim and unsettling themes present within the storyline, the book maintains a gripping pace that retains the reader's attention until the very last page. The reviewer, Ken Strongman, notes the high quality of writing and the author's compelling grasp of the material, suggesting that the title "Flood" may not encapsulate the full impact of the narrative. The combination of authentic, harsh realities alongside well-developed characters leads to a book that is described as "unputdownable," highlighting Burke's refreshing perspective in the traditional realm of private detective fiction.

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