Finding the plot for an unfinished novel in the late Mickey Spillane’s files Max Allan Collins took keyboard in hand and fashioned a noir story replete with all the Spillane trademarks: snappy patter, plot twists and gangster comeuppance.
Collins worked with Spillane on several occasions and was chosen by Spillane to complete a number of his unfinished works. More than an excellent pick!
Encore For Murder finds Hammer playing bodyguard to a former flame, Rita Vance, who is about to make a comeback on Broadway. Yes, we did say old flame but those embers are rekindled Rita is the recipient of numerous death threats and hit men are, you know, trying to hit on Hammer.
However, before the curtain goes up on Rita’s big night she disappears, and has to be found fast. The trail takes Hammer a long way from the Big Apple’s bright lights as he tries to solve a perplexing mystery, save Rita and himself.
After seeing Stacy Keach on television as Mike Hammer, it was clear there couldn’t be another. His narration of this story along with a full cast is topnotch entertainment. Doubt if you’ll find a better performance anywhere, so enjoy!
- Gail Cooke
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