A Star!

[I. J. Parker]

I've just learned that Publishers Weekly has given ISLAND OF EXILES a starred review. Even better than that fact is the review itself:

"Parker's fourth Sugawara Akitada mystery (after 2006's Black Arrow), set in 11th-century Japan, manages to outplot its superb predecessors. When exiled and disgraced Prince Okisada is poisoned on Sado Island, a penal colony, Akitada is recruited by a shadowy pair of high-ranking government officials who devise a risky plan to find the killer. While the local governor's son has been arrested for the murder, suspicions linger that he was framed by high constable Kumo Sanetomo as part of a plot against the emperor. Akitada, disguised as a convict, infiltrates Sado Island and suffers physical abuse from corrupt guards and police as he uncovers indications that the prince may have ingested the fatal blowfish toxin by accident. The fast-moving, surprising plot and colorful writing will enthrall even those unfamiliar with the exotic setting. The Shamus Award Parker won with her first Akitada short story may soon have company. (Sept.)"

Boy, did I need that. The knowledge that someone somewhere -- and in this case someone who knows mysteries and has the background to make such judgments -- respects my work and thinks my books strong enough to recommend so enthusiastically is enormously encouraging when almost nobody else is.

I am very grateful to Publishers Weekly.

[I. J. Parker]

Thanks. I'm greedy and hoping for more, alas.

[J.D. Rhoades]

A starred review form PW is definitely something to be proud of. They're tough. Congratulations!

[Angie]

Wow! That's truly awesome news, Ingrid!

[I. J. Parker]

Thank you, Steven. You're a winner to me.

[Steven Torres]

Well, I'm no winner, but I congratulate you all the same. I'll be looking out for it.

[I. J. Parker]

Thanks, Naomi. Congrats from an Edgar winner are doubly nice.

[Naomi Hirahara]

This is most awesome! Penal colony, I love it. Congrataulations, I.J.