We need a V. I. (Vic) Warshawski novel every year or two to remind us of how good crime fiction can be. This title—Paretsky’s 22nd in the series—is one of her very best: taut yet complex, fast-paced yet thoughtful. The novel begins as Vic’s dogs, off the leash and exploring Lake Michigan, discover an injured teenage girl tucked between two boulders, barely alive. Through Vic’s efforts she makes it to the hospital, only to disappear soon afterwards. The search for the girl brings us into a classic Paretsky world of Chicago mobsters and lowlifes, some extending back to Vic’s childhood. Just when you think there are too many characters, too much plot, the story falls beautifully into place. Few crime novels seem more of the moment than Overboard, with its depiction of police brutality and of a city chaotically emerging from the pandemic. Longtime fans will enjoy catching up with Vic’s friends, especially her neighbor, the delightful Mr. Contreras. Powerful.
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