Superb Narration by Joe Mantegna - Sixkill

    In addition to narrating a number of the Parker novels, Joe Mantegna starred as Spenser in three television movies.  For this listener he is Spenser.  A 40 year show business veteran he’s an accomplished, versatile actor as evidenced in over 100 films  (The Godfather Part 3, Forget Paris, etc.) In addition, his television appearances have garnered critical praise (The Rat Pack, The Last Don. Criminal Minds).   With a voice that’s clear, distinct, strong Mantegna simply sounds like the Spenser I had only hitherto read about.

           Sadly, Robert Parker is gone but we do have SIXKILL, the story of Hollywood star Jumbo Nelson and his bodyguard, Zebulon Sixkill.  Jumbo is in Boston shooting a movie when he’s the prime suspect in the rape and murder of a young woman.  Jumbo’s    penchant for booze and sex is
 well known - the press deems him guilty.  Perhaps so but things aren’t exactly falling into place so the Boston PD asks Spenser to investigate.

    While doing so Spenser meets Sixkill the hard way - Jumbo who is none too bright is riled by Spenser’s questions and sics Sixkill on him.  Young Sixkill is an American Indian, a former football player who was kicked off the team.  Nonetheless, Spenser wins this go-round and unlikely as it may seem the two become friends of a sort.  Spenser begins looking after Sixkill, clues him in on solving crimes and teaches him how to box.

    Eventually, Sixkill helps Spenser break the case.

    As we know no one could outdo Parker when it came to quick, fast dialogue and this narrative abounds with it.  Mantegna is the man to deliver it, and he does it to a T.

    Enjoy!