The Hanged Man's Song
John Sandford
Putnam, Nov 2003, $25.95, 336 pp.
ISBN: 0399151397

Anyone who knows computers knows that Bobby is the Michael Jordan of hacking. No fire wall can keep him out if he chooses to enter that site. However, someone decides to keep Bobby out by smashing in his head. His friends are horrified by the violence, but also fear what the killer will do with the information found on Bobby's stolen laptop.

Kidd understands the ramifications of the missing computer that may contain files pertaining to his own illegal activities. Besides his personal safety, Kidd also feels a need to avenge the death of his friend. Bobby's secrets begin to surface providing a trail that takes Kidd around the country, but ultimately to DC where the political elite is in jeopardy of exposure.

Though the earlier Kidd entries show the speed in which technology becomes obsolete, THE HANGED MAN'S SONG is an exciting thriller starring an intriguing lead character whose moral code is a bit different than most people. The story line is fast-paced as Kidd accompanied by his cat burgling girlfriend follows the clues. John Sandford, better known for those delicious Prey novels has written a strong tale starring a charming offbeat individual with a quest for justice, Kidd style.

Harriet Klausner