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Hap and Leonard #13
Sugar on the Bones
PI Duo Hap & Leonard investigate the untimely death of a woman whose family stood much to gain from her passing. It's a holy mess of a case for the "perpetual bad boy" (New York Times) sleuths in this beloved series. Minnie Polson is dead. Burned to a crisp in a fire so big and bad it had to be deliberate. The only thing worse is that Hap and Leonard could have prevented it. Maybe. Minnie had a feeling she was being targeted, shaken down by some shadowy force. However, when she’d solicited Hap & Leonard, all it took was one off color joke to turn her sour and she’d called them off the investigation. Wracked with a guilty conscience, the two PIs—along with Hap’s fleet-footed wife, Brett—tuck in to the case. As they look closer, they dredge up troublesome for one, Minnie’s daughter, Alice, has recently vanished. She’d been hard up after her pet grooming business went under and was in line to collect a whopping insurance sum should anything happen to her mother. The same was due to Minnie’s estranged husband, Al, whose kryptonite (beautiful, money-grubbing women) had left him with only a run-down mobile home. But did Minnie’s foolish, cash-strapped family really have it in them to commit a crime this grisly? Or is there a larger, far more sinister scheme at work? Irreverent, wise-cracking, and full of atmosphere and bite, Sugar on the Bones is not to be missed.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2024
About the author
Joe R. Lansdale
817 books3,673 followersChampion Mojo Storyteller Joe R. Lansdale is the author of over forty novels and numerous short stories. His work has appeared in national anthologies, magazines, and collections, as well as numerous foreign publications. He has written for comics, television, film, newspapers, and Internet sites. His work has been collected in more than two dozen short-story collections, and he has edited or co-edited over a dozen anthologies. He has received the Edgar Award, eight Bram Stoker Awards, the Horror Writers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the British Fantasy Award, the Grinzani Cavour Prize for Literature, the Herodotus Historical Fiction Award, the Inkpot Award for Contributions to Science Fiction and Fantasy, and many others. His novella Bubba Ho-Tep was adapted to film by Don Coscarelli, starring Bruce Campbell and Ossie Davis. His story "Incident On and Off a Mountain Road" was adapted to film for Showtime's "Masters of Horror," and he adapted his short story "Christmas with the Dead" to film hisownself. The film adaptation of his novel Cold in July was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, and the Sundance Channel has adapted his Hap & Leonard novels for television.
He is currently co-producing several films, among them The Bottoms, based on his Edgar Award-winning novel, with Bill Paxton and Brad Wyman, and The Drive-In, with Greg Nicotero. He is Writer In Residence at Stephen F. Austin State University, and is the founder of the martial arts system Shen Chuan: Martial Science and its affiliate, Shen Chuan Family System. He is a member of both the United States and International Martial Arts Halls of Fame. He lives in Nacogdoches, Texas with his wife, dog, and two cats.
He is currently co-producing several films, among them The Bottoms, based on his Edgar Award-winning novel, with Bill Paxton and Brad Wyman, and The Drive-In, with Greg Nicotero. He is Writer In Residence at Stephen F. Austin State University, and is the founder of the martial arts system Shen Chuan: Martial Science and its affiliate, Shen Chuan Family System. He is a member of both the United States and International Martial Arts Halls of Fame. He lives in Nacogdoches, Texas with his wife, dog, and two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 26, 2024
Storyteller, Joe R. Lansdale, crafts a tale better than most other authors. The dialogue, settings and situations are pure East Texas. It’s like going home again, that is if your home is a twisted up, crazy Texas town populated by eccentric characters created out of a madman’s fever dream, but you can be sure that righteousness will eventually win out over the forces of darkness. There may be blood and bodies along the way but our intrepid and reluctant heroes will persevere.
May 27, 2024
Champion Mojo Storyteller Joe R. Lansdale returns to Hap and Leonard after an extended absence and delivers a fun, well-done, if not spectacular novel. This one had a wild, mysterious plot and zigged and zagged all over the place in the way the later Hap and Leonard books have done. I'll say that while this one was wasn't up to the incredibly high standards of the earlier books, a weaker Hap and Leonard story or a weaker Lansdale story all together is still much better than quite a bit of what I read on a weekly basis. It had a one-last-ride feel to it and if this is the end, it certainly was a great, fun way to go out.
Special Thanks to Mulholland Books and Netgalley for the digital ARC. This was given to me for an honest review.
Special Thanks to Mulholland Books and Netgalley for the digital ARC. This was given to me for an honest review.
August 29, 2024
Hap and Leonard is not your everyday heroes and they have a somewhat loose opinion on what is justice. Joe R. Lansdale has once again written a masterpiece but I didn't expect anything less from this author. Sugar on the Bones is the 13th book in this series and I really had fun reading it. I wish the tv series had gone on a little longer but it's sadly impossible due to Leonard not being around anymore. The story is as always well written and filled with witty dialogue and I was surprised that the duo left Texas to finish of the job. I will always recommend this series to people that wants a good book to read that is not like everything else.
July 15, 2024
This 13th installment of the Hap and Leonard series was worth the 5 year wait. An with an aging Hap and Leonard (they both mention getting older multiple times) and the return of some of their brothers and sisters in arms this is a rip roaring good time in east Texas but it made me think that this may be their last roundup.
July 30, 2024
I truly love this series & the characters within it. Lansdale has done such an amazing job. This book picks up a bit of time after “The Elephant of Surprise”. Things are going good in Hap & Brett’s marriage. Their daughter Chance is on her own with Reba (400 year old vampire) & Buffy the dog. Leonard & Pooky are getting closer & marriage might be in the works. The years are starting to catch up with both Hap & Leonard.
They get a tip from Marvin Hanson, now retired police chief, about a case & due to a misunderstanding fail to get hired by the client. The next day the client & her house is incinerated with Brett feeling guilty she, Hap & Leonard start poking around.
The humour in this book is softer than in previous novels, but still fun. The ending felt a bit rushed, but I get the feeling that this series is ending. Which I find tragic as I love all these characters.
They get a tip from Marvin Hanson, now retired police chief, about a case & due to a misunderstanding fail to get hired by the client. The next day the client & her house is incinerated with Brett feeling guilty she, Hap & Leonard start poking around.
The humour in this book is softer than in previous novels, but still fun. The ending felt a bit rushed, but I get the feeling that this series is ending. Which I find tragic as I love all these characters.
September 27, 2024
4*
More of Hap & Leonard's adventures and lots of fun. Possibly my favourite out of the most recent 3 H&L novels.
More of Hap & Leonard's adventures and lots of fun. Possibly my favourite out of the most recent 3 H&L novels.
July 22, 2024
The fact that several of the old friends (Hanson, John Bob, Veil, Vanilla) return in this adventure of Hap and Leonard is alarming to me because I have the impression that it is a farewell to one of the best series I have read in recent years. The pace is high, the exchanges between Leonard and Hap often leave me with tears in my eyes from laughing, as does the utter lack of romance in the romance between Brett and Hap. Someday, I will probably reread the whole series, but in the meantime I still enjoy the pleasant aftertaste of this latest novel.
Il fatto che in questa avventura di Hap e Leonard tornino parecchi dei vecchi amici (Hanson, Joe Bob, Veil, Vanilla), mi mette paura perché ho come l'impressione che sia un congedo da una delle serie migliori che mi sia capitato di leggere in questi ultimi anni. Il ritmo é alto, gli scambi tra Leonard ed Hap mi lasciano spesso le lacrime agli occhi dalle risate, cosí come l'assoluta mancanza di romanticismo nella storia d'amore tra Brett e Hap. Un giorno, probabilmente mi rileggeró tutta la serie, ma nel frattempo mi godo ancora il retrogusto piacevole di questo ultimo romanzo.
Il fatto che in questa avventura di Hap e Leonard tornino parecchi dei vecchi amici (Hanson, Joe Bob, Veil, Vanilla), mi mette paura perché ho come l'impressione che sia un congedo da una delle serie migliori che mi sia capitato di leggere in questi ultimi anni. Il ritmo é alto, gli scambi tra Leonard ed Hap mi lasciano spesso le lacrime agli occhi dalle risate, cosí come l'assoluta mancanza di romanticismo nella storia d'amore tra Brett e Hap. Un giorno, probabilmente mi rileggeró tutta la serie, ma nel frattempo mi godo ancora il retrogusto piacevole di questo ultimo romanzo.
June 7, 2024
Joe Lansdale writing Hap & Leonard, it's like pulling the car into the driveway after time away from home. A sigh of relief and warm fuzzy touch of familiarity. Simply put, if you've enjoyed previous entries, you'll enjoy this one. If you've yet to dive in, Sugar on the Bones is as good a place as any, though my reader's heart demands you at least try to pick up Savage Season. Lansdale's ability to mature and age these character gracefully without sacrificing an ounce of entertaining should be studied, all these volumes in and never a dull moment. Sugar on the Bones boasts the anticipated twists, turns, and unusual detours with enough fart jokes to draw plenty of hearty laughs, enough violence to draw a wince and grimace or two, and some stakeouts with old friends. Add this one to your pile.
July 20, 2024
Another great instalment in the Hap and Leonard series. Based on the story, could this be the last one.
July 16, 2024
Sugar on the Bones is a fun and hilarious Hap & Leonard adventure. There’s an overriding sense of simply enjoying the ride, of well-crafted characters—major and minor—chatting and finding their well-worn grooves. Whereas earlier adventures might have had deeper senses of danger, rougher times, and more eye-opening violence, Sugar on the Bones has that ephemeral notion of good guys shootin’ the shit and of savory adventures among old friends. There’s no getting around the sense that this book feels like a later one in a series, and for this reader anyway, there’s gratitude in that.
August 9, 2024
The threat is real for most of Sugar on the Bones... up until the end when only the threat of a possibility is real.
Similar to Game of Thrones, the reader learns that a hero in the Hap and Leonard stories isn't immune from being killed off, and this volume keeps the focus on mortality. The boys are older, their lives are more settled and they've grown to appreciate comfort more than adventure. In fact the only thing pulling them along at this point is their sense of justice.
Lansdale has culled the cast a bit, a move guaranteed to upset some fans I'm sure, but perfectly within his authorial rights. Did they earn their deaths? Maybe not: one is a shocker fueling motivation for revenge (as does any innocent victim along the way). But another more faithfully supports the theme of mortality and justice. It's a little more thematically warranted. It’s more contemplative, captured in this noteworthy passage:
The central crime of the story is pleasingly gruesome. Even though their old allies answer their desperate call (gun-for-hire Joe Bob Luke, assassin Vanilla Ride and even the lawyer Veil), Hap and Leonard are outwitted and only saved by luck.
Lansdale foreshadows the final assault in the first pages to hook you along. Action and fatality keeps the plot moving.
Wry and raunchy humor also pervades the story, which is no surprise for anyone who's already familiar with Lansdale’s work:
The similes are nearly all non-sequiturs, most of them didn't land for me, and while I love the "elephant of surprise" insider joke, it's a bit overused here if you've heard it before.
Surprisingly the villains aren't all that fleshed out. Details of their schemes and theories about their roles inside a larger organization are hypothetical. Hap and Leonard eventually meet one of them, but despite that they aren't very well-rounded. The criminals and their gang are ultimately no more than targets in a turkey shoot, especially in the finale.
Most of the points go to Vanilla while Hap and Leonard manage to remain unscathed and essentially spectators to the sniper action. Presumably the next novel will delve deeper into the shadowy organization hinted at in Elephant of Surprise and continued here in Sugar on the Bones, and put Purple Eyes back on the hook.
Similar to Game of Thrones, the reader learns that a hero in the Hap and Leonard stories isn't immune from being killed off, and this volume keeps the focus on mortality. The boys are older, their lives are more settled and they've grown to appreciate comfort more than adventure. In fact the only thing pulling them along at this point is their sense of justice.
"Just never occurred to me too often we could be killed. I mean, you're you and I'm me, and we have been through some serious shit. Nearly died but have always come out of things okay. Now I think about what we're doing and think maybe we won't come out okay."
Lansdale has culled the cast a bit, a move guaranteed to upset some fans I'm sure, but perfectly within his authorial rights. Did they earn their deaths? Maybe not: one is a shocker fueling motivation for revenge (as does any innocent victim along the way). But another more faithfully supports the theme of mortality and justice. It's a little more thematically warranted. It’s more contemplative, captured in this noteworthy passage:
"Life has gotten too heavy. It weighs on me when I lay down. Thought I'd come here and see the sunrise. I haven't seen one for about as long as I haven't slept. You'd think being awake so much, I'd see one, but I haven't. I didn't know I was missing seeing one until lately. I intend to see one this morning. Sun should rise where I'm looking. There's nothing in the way of my view besides memories.
The central crime of the story is pleasingly gruesome. Even though their old allies answer their desperate call (gun-for-hire Joe Bob Luke, assassin Vanilla Ride and even the lawyer Veil), Hap and Leonard are outwitted and only saved by luck.
Lansdale foreshadows the final assault in the first pages to hook you along. Action and fatality keeps the plot moving.
Wry and raunchy humor also pervades the story, which is no surprise for anyone who's already familiar with Lansdale’s work:
"I'm not in the mood, baby," she said.
"That's all right," I said. "Could you get in the mood?"
"Yep," Brett said. "Poor Pete. I feel sorry for him. About all he ever did was raise the temperature in a room."
... Vanilla repositioned herself. The way she moved was raw sexuality seasoned with hot sauce and pepper.
Brett gave me the side-eye, and I tried to think about cats, but that didn't lead to a good place either, so I thought about tacos, but that wasn't working for sure, and so I thought about a nice quiet place by the beach with me under a tree and the wind blowing and Brett holding a gun to my head, and that almost worked.
The similes are nearly all non-sequiturs, most of them didn't land for me, and while I love the "elephant of surprise" insider joke, it's a bit overused here if you've heard it before.
Surprisingly the villains aren't all that fleshed out. Details of their schemes and theories about their roles inside a larger organization are hypothetical. Hap and Leonard eventually meet one of them, but despite that they aren't very well-rounded. The criminals and their gang are ultimately no more than targets in a turkey shoot, especially in the finale.
Most of the points go to Vanilla while Hap and Leonard manage to remain unscathed and essentially spectators to the sniper action. Presumably the next novel will delve deeper into the shadowy organization hinted at in Elephant of Surprise and continued here in Sugar on the Bones, and put Purple Eyes back on the hook.
July 16, 2024
This was my first time to read one of Joe Lansdale’s books. Sugar on the Bones is #13 in Lansdale’s Hap and Leonard series, and while I was able to follow along pretty well, I’m sure I missed a lot of backstory in those first twelve books. I’d suggest starting at the beginning.
Hap and Leonard could have taken a job for Minnie Polson. But she apparently didn’t like their style, so she declined to retain their services. Next thing they hear, she’s dead. Burned to a crisp in a fire set with a purpose. Even though Minnie was never their client and was no longer alive to pay them even if she had been, they feel some kind of obligation to follow through on the case. The trail leads them to Minnie’s hard-done-by ex, Al, and a whole mess of trouble.
I’m not quite sure how to categorize this book. A little bit noir, a little bit off-beat humor, a lot of sarcasm, plenty of Texas color, and enough fart jokes to satisfy almost any 12-year-old boy, it’s not your normal detective fiction! Hap and Leonard may seem like an unlikely duo – Hap, a white East Texas boy who’s done some time, and Leonard, a gay Black Vietnam vet. They’re friends. They poke fun at each other, but you know they’ve got each other’s backs, and neither will let the other go alone into danger.
The characters were colorfully drawn, from our heroes to Hap’s wife Brett (who’s really the brains of their marriage – I liked Brett!) to Minnie’s ex Al, who seems like his lack of funds might give him a genuine motive to have done Minnie in. But come on – a guy who lives in an absolute dump of a trailer and is as upfront and genuine about the sad state of his affairs as anyone could be isn’t likely to be hiding a criminal side, is he? I was particularly entertained by the relationship Al had with the mice living in his couch. There’s Vanilla, a gorgeous woman who’s also a stone-cold assassin and an almost comically good shot, and Veil, whose relationship with Hap isn’t clearly defined but is clearly one that has them on good terms.
Hap and Leonard and their associates often find themselves in situations calling for violence, and Lansdale doesn’t shy away from describing the action in detail that sometimes left me a little queasy. The older I get, the less I seem to like vividly brutal fight scenes. If you share my sentiment, you may turn those pages a little faster, too.
Overall, the story was a lot of fun. Hap and Leonard are a crime-solving duo that’s easy to cheer for, and Brett does her best to keep them on an even keel. I have boys, so I’m in favor of fart jokes. If I skip past the violent bits, I enjoy the rest of the story just fine – enough that I plan to read the series to get Hap and Leonard’s history. Sugar on the Bones may not be everybody’s cup of tea, but if it sounds like it could be your shot of whiskey, give it a read!
Hap and Leonard could have taken a job for Minnie Polson. But she apparently didn’t like their style, so she declined to retain their services. Next thing they hear, she’s dead. Burned to a crisp in a fire set with a purpose. Even though Minnie was never their client and was no longer alive to pay them even if she had been, they feel some kind of obligation to follow through on the case. The trail leads them to Minnie’s hard-done-by ex, Al, and a whole mess of trouble.
I’m not quite sure how to categorize this book. A little bit noir, a little bit off-beat humor, a lot of sarcasm, plenty of Texas color, and enough fart jokes to satisfy almost any 12-year-old boy, it’s not your normal detective fiction! Hap and Leonard may seem like an unlikely duo – Hap, a white East Texas boy who’s done some time, and Leonard, a gay Black Vietnam vet. They’re friends. They poke fun at each other, but you know they’ve got each other’s backs, and neither will let the other go alone into danger.
The characters were colorfully drawn, from our heroes to Hap’s wife Brett (who’s really the brains of their marriage – I liked Brett!) to Minnie’s ex Al, who seems like his lack of funds might give him a genuine motive to have done Minnie in. But come on – a guy who lives in an absolute dump of a trailer and is as upfront and genuine about the sad state of his affairs as anyone could be isn’t likely to be hiding a criminal side, is he? I was particularly entertained by the relationship Al had with the mice living in his couch. There’s Vanilla, a gorgeous woman who’s also a stone-cold assassin and an almost comically good shot, and Veil, whose relationship with Hap isn’t clearly defined but is clearly one that has them on good terms.
Hap and Leonard and their associates often find themselves in situations calling for violence, and Lansdale doesn’t shy away from describing the action in detail that sometimes left me a little queasy. The older I get, the less I seem to like vividly brutal fight scenes. If you share my sentiment, you may turn those pages a little faster, too.
Overall, the story was a lot of fun. Hap and Leonard are a crime-solving duo that’s easy to cheer for, and Brett does her best to keep them on an even keel. I have boys, so I’m in favor of fart jokes. If I skip past the violent bits, I enjoy the rest of the story just fine – enough that I plan to read the series to get Hap and Leonard’s history. Sugar on the Bones may not be everybody’s cup of tea, but if it sounds like it could be your shot of whiskey, give it a read!
June 29, 2024
SUGAR ON THE BONES is book 13 in the Hap & Leonard series and my first fore into their adventures. But certainly, it won't be my last!
The novel is fast paced and action filled, with multiple shoot-outs, disappearances, deaths, and even a boat chase. A page-turner to be sure.
I thoroughly enjoyed the witticisms, sarcasm, and colloquial language in the novel.
Multiple crimes and mysteries occur within the novel. It starts with a suspicious death due to arson and rolls into possible alien abductions and other conspiracy theories. There's a reveal halfway through the novel that would normally be closer to the end for a wrap up. But not here! There was still half a book left of action and adventure to experience before the conclusion of the novel.
The mysteries are the initial appeal, but for me, it's the humor that kept me entertained. But this humor is not for the easily offended, either conservative or liberal. The characters do not shy away from any topic! I found myself chuckling and highlighting many passages like this one:
"It was just under a carport that was big enough to house a couple of tanks, a bulldozer, and perhaps a trio of tricycles if you shoved them in tight."
I don't know about you, but I certainly have a clear picture of that carport in my mind after this passage. Plus the juxtaposition of tricycles and tanks is very comical!
It's interesting that this series is labeled as Hap's and Leonard's when it's clear to me that there are so many more characters in this story. We have the titular Hap and Leonard, Hap's wife Brett, as well as some contract and colorful muscle, cops, and a sprinkling of a few teenagers at the gym rounding out a large collection of distinctive characters. I did struggle in the beginning of the novel with figuring out who all the characters were and what parts they play in the novel. This is book 13 in the series after all! But once the action started, I was able to distinguish the different characters. My favorite characters are Hap and Brett. Hap for his straight-forward attitude and Brett for being the brains of the operation.
Who else do you know that has a blackjack and a compact in the same purse!
As stated above, I did struggle at the beginning of the novel with keeping track of the different characters. I was able to follow the plot without any issues. But felt like I was missing some backstory and history with starting the series at book #13.
Shout out for all those readers looking for the book title drop in the text. This novel has a humdinger of a title call out.
With original characters, action, multiple mysteries, and plenty of amusing scenes, SUGAR ON THE BONES kept me turning pages and engrossed throughout. Check this one out!
The novel is fast paced and action filled, with multiple shoot-outs, disappearances, deaths, and even a boat chase. A page-turner to be sure.
I thoroughly enjoyed the witticisms, sarcasm, and colloquial language in the novel.
Multiple crimes and mysteries occur within the novel. It starts with a suspicious death due to arson and rolls into possible alien abductions and other conspiracy theories. There's a reveal halfway through the novel that would normally be closer to the end for a wrap up. But not here! There was still half a book left of action and adventure to experience before the conclusion of the novel.
The mysteries are the initial appeal, but for me, it's the humor that kept me entertained. But this humor is not for the easily offended, either conservative or liberal. The characters do not shy away from any topic! I found myself chuckling and highlighting many passages like this one:
"It was just under a carport that was big enough to house a couple of tanks, a bulldozer, and perhaps a trio of tricycles if you shoved them in tight."
I don't know about you, but I certainly have a clear picture of that carport in my mind after this passage. Plus the juxtaposition of tricycles and tanks is very comical!
It's interesting that this series is labeled as Hap's and Leonard's when it's clear to me that there are so many more characters in this story. We have the titular Hap and Leonard, Hap's wife Brett, as well as some contract and colorful muscle, cops, and a sprinkling of a few teenagers at the gym rounding out a large collection of distinctive characters. I did struggle in the beginning of the novel with figuring out who all the characters were and what parts they play in the novel. This is book 13 in the series after all! But once the action started, I was able to distinguish the different characters. My favorite characters are Hap and Brett. Hap for his straight-forward attitude and Brett for being the brains of the operation.
Who else do you know that has a blackjack and a compact in the same purse!
As stated above, I did struggle at the beginning of the novel with keeping track of the different characters. I was able to follow the plot without any issues. But felt like I was missing some backstory and history with starting the series at book #13.
Shout out for all those readers looking for the book title drop in the text. This novel has a humdinger of a title call out.
With original characters, action, multiple mysteries, and plenty of amusing scenes, SUGAR ON THE BONES kept me turning pages and engrossed throughout. Check this one out!
August 4, 2024
Hap Collins and Leonard Pine are familiar with sticky situations, but their most recent case initially didn’t appear as such. Their best friend on the police force, Marvin Hanson, was trading in his gun and cuffs for bait and tackle. Marvin refers a possible client to the pair and asks if Hap will accompany his wife and investigative partner, Brett, to meet with Minnie Polson. Brett doesn’t hold back in expressing her opinion and is turned off by Minnie. Despite not taking the job, Hap, Leonard and Brett decide to explore circumstances further when Minnie is found charred to a crisp in her home as a result of arson.
Through some early investigating, the trio learn that Minnie had contacted another local investigator, Pete Dawkins. Brett has a previous association with Pete and discovers that Minnie wanted the PI to find her missing daughter, Alice. When Hap, Leonard and Brett go to see Pete, they are nonplussed at the sight of his bruised and battered corpse. The accumulation of dead bodies is nothing new to Hap and Leonard, but the expeditious and brutal manner of the murders merely draws them further into the case.
A visit is paid to Minnie’s ex-husband, Al, in hopes of clearing up some murky matters. Minnie might have been worth more dead than alive. Al is an eccentric sort who lives far below his means and is capable of talking anybody’s ear off. Initially, he is viewed as the prime suspect in the death of his estranged wife and Pete, but his demeanor disabuses Hap and Leonard of any malice within his heart. Al hires them to find Alice.
A warning from a familiar adversary puts Hap on alert. The case of Minnie and Alice goes deeper than first thought. Marvin’s successor provides some helpful hints as to possible perpetrators, but Hap and Leonard remain skeptical of the new Sheriff’s loyalties. As the danger begins closing in from all sides, the need for some backup becomes unavoidable as a showdown looms. Hap and Leonard will need to call in some favors along with some desperadoes in their latest fight.
SUGAR ON THE BONES finds Hap and Leonard living in near domestic contentment with their romantic partners yet cognizant of their respective ages. They are incapable of walking away from injustice, and the circumstances around these deaths beg for a retributive solution. Hap and Leonard remain a memorable crime-fighting pair who refuse to back down from a rumble, even if it means tangling with a Goliath, and their bond is as strong as ever. Joe R. Lansdale pens another smart, funny and rewarding mystery in this latest installment of his unforgettable series.
Reviewed by Philip Zozzaro
Through some early investigating, the trio learn that Minnie had contacted another local investigator, Pete Dawkins. Brett has a previous association with Pete and discovers that Minnie wanted the PI to find her missing daughter, Alice. When Hap, Leonard and Brett go to see Pete, they are nonplussed at the sight of his bruised and battered corpse. The accumulation of dead bodies is nothing new to Hap and Leonard, but the expeditious and brutal manner of the murders merely draws them further into the case.
A visit is paid to Minnie’s ex-husband, Al, in hopes of clearing up some murky matters. Minnie might have been worth more dead than alive. Al is an eccentric sort who lives far below his means and is capable of talking anybody’s ear off. Initially, he is viewed as the prime suspect in the death of his estranged wife and Pete, but his demeanor disabuses Hap and Leonard of any malice within his heart. Al hires them to find Alice.
A warning from a familiar adversary puts Hap on alert. The case of Minnie and Alice goes deeper than first thought. Marvin’s successor provides some helpful hints as to possible perpetrators, but Hap and Leonard remain skeptical of the new Sheriff’s loyalties. As the danger begins closing in from all sides, the need for some backup becomes unavoidable as a showdown looms. Hap and Leonard will need to call in some favors along with some desperadoes in their latest fight.
SUGAR ON THE BONES finds Hap and Leonard living in near domestic contentment with their romantic partners yet cognizant of their respective ages. They are incapable of walking away from injustice, and the circumstances around these deaths beg for a retributive solution. Hap and Leonard remain a memorable crime-fighting pair who refuse to back down from a rumble, even if it means tangling with a Goliath, and their bond is as strong as ever. Joe R. Lansdale pens another smart, funny and rewarding mystery in this latest installment of his unforgettable series.
Reviewed by Philip Zozzaro
August 12, 2024
A new Hap and Leonard novel is always cause for celebration, and not surprisingly, Sugar On the Bones does not disappoint. I’m a big fan of book series—they give you a chance to get to know the continuing characters in a way that a single novel often doesn’t, and not just the main characters. Sugar On the Bones brings back several folks from earlier books, and the fact that you know them, know their backstory, makes the novel an even richer, more satisfying read. There’s a shared history here, not just between the boys and these characters, but between all of them and we readers.
Another thing I love that Lansdale has done over the course of the past few Hap and Leonard books is to let them age—I was going to say age gracefully, but come on, that would be stretching the truth to the breaking point—but they are aging. In Sugar On the Bones, Hap and Leonard are still shit-talkers and shit-kickers, but are at least feeling their mortality. I think a big part of it is that they both now have folks they love to live for. They’re still fearless, still willing to go headlong into the fire instead of away from it, but they at least think about the consequences of their actions. Do they still do stupid, dangerous shit? Absolutely. They wouldn’t be Hap and Leonard otherwise. Part of the fun is watching them consider the odds, then still say damn those consequences.
I don’t really want to dig too deep into the plot—as usual, Lansdale is a consummate storyteller, an unmatched spinner of yarns. This one starts out with a potential missing persons case that quickly turns deadly, with an East Texas crime syndicate out for blood. Also as usual, there are a whole book full of oddball characters that add to both the fun and the danger. Sugar On the Bones is fast paced and violent, with a final set piece that will start your heart rate spiking and keep it there.
Lansdale is working at the top of his game here, with a perfect mix of lovingly described mayhem, lyrical description, glorious turns of phrase, and the best dialogue writing of any author working today. In fact, I’m going to make a bold statement here—I think Lansdale is now a better dialogue writer than Elmore Leonard.
Sugar On the Bones is more fun that a couch full of mice (you have to read the book), and I hope Lansdale keeps writing Hap and Leonard books for years to come. If the boys end up sitting next to each other in rocking chairs on Hap’s front porch, blankets on their laps, solving whatever crimes happen to pass them by, I’m fine with that. Hell, they don’t even have to solve crimes. Just keep shit-talking.
Another thing I love that Lansdale has done over the course of the past few Hap and Leonard books is to let them age—I was going to say age gracefully, but come on, that would be stretching the truth to the breaking point—but they are aging. In Sugar On the Bones, Hap and Leonard are still shit-talkers and shit-kickers, but are at least feeling their mortality. I think a big part of it is that they both now have folks they love to live for. They’re still fearless, still willing to go headlong into the fire instead of away from it, but they at least think about the consequences of their actions. Do they still do stupid, dangerous shit? Absolutely. They wouldn’t be Hap and Leonard otherwise. Part of the fun is watching them consider the odds, then still say damn those consequences.
I don’t really want to dig too deep into the plot—as usual, Lansdale is a consummate storyteller, an unmatched spinner of yarns. This one starts out with a potential missing persons case that quickly turns deadly, with an East Texas crime syndicate out for blood. Also as usual, there are a whole book full of oddball characters that add to both the fun and the danger. Sugar On the Bones is fast paced and violent, with a final set piece that will start your heart rate spiking and keep it there.
Lansdale is working at the top of his game here, with a perfect mix of lovingly described mayhem, lyrical description, glorious turns of phrase, and the best dialogue writing of any author working today. In fact, I’m going to make a bold statement here—I think Lansdale is now a better dialogue writer than Elmore Leonard.
Sugar On the Bones is more fun that a couch full of mice (you have to read the book), and I hope Lansdale keeps writing Hap and Leonard books for years to come. If the boys end up sitting next to each other in rocking chairs on Hap’s front porch, blankets on their laps, solving whatever crimes happen to pass them by, I’m fine with that. Hell, they don’t even have to solve crimes. Just keep shit-talking.
July 31, 2024
Sugar on the Bones is an immensely fun, enjoyable, and highly entertaining read! To be honest, I’d have a hard time remembering when I enjoyed a book more.
The story continues the saga of Hap and Leonard, a private-eye duo, as well as Haps wife NAME. In this episode, they start investigating without even having a client. That’s because a woman who interviewed them, but didn’t hire them, was burned up in a house fire the following day. Something didn’t smell right, so they decided to look into it. As their investigation deepened, they had to add additional folks to the team, because they found themselves up against a very lethal group of bad guys (and gals). As they race toward the thrilling conclusion, they begin wondering whether any of them will be left when this is over.
If I had to use a single word to describe what makes this story significantly better than similar stories, I would have to say “banter.” The banter between these characters is often hilarious, but always clever. The banter demonstrates the utter cohesiveness of the team, and it makes the book so much fun to read.
To say that author Joe Lansdale knows how to turn a phrase is a gross understatement. Further, each of these characters has such a distinct personality that it must have been quite fun to write about them.
I can’t imagine the pacing being any better. It was truly perfect! Between the ongoing banter and the perfect pacing, the reader is led into the climax with no escape routes. Sure, you can stop reading the novel, but by that time that’s not an option.
The timing of the climax is also perfection. It’s not elongated so there’s a chance to catch your breath, but nor is it so quick that you can escape the consequences. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a climax done better, and I’m pretty forthright when it comes to climaxes!
I previously mentioned how awesome these characters are. I’m considering reading the previous twelve episodes of this series just to see how the characters came to be as they are in this story. These folks are so lovable that it’s hard to be critical!
In a series like this, sometimes it’s hard to have closure on one story before beginning the next one. I can say that I had wonderful closure with this story, yet still have a small hope (“hope” real isn’t a good word, but I can’t think of a better one) of the story continuing in another episode.
Just in case you haven’t surmised the obvious, I highly recommend this story for your reading pleasure!
The story continues the saga of Hap and Leonard, a private-eye duo, as well as Haps wife NAME. In this episode, they start investigating without even having a client. That’s because a woman who interviewed them, but didn’t hire them, was burned up in a house fire the following day. Something didn’t smell right, so they decided to look into it. As their investigation deepened, they had to add additional folks to the team, because they found themselves up against a very lethal group of bad guys (and gals). As they race toward the thrilling conclusion, they begin wondering whether any of them will be left when this is over.
If I had to use a single word to describe what makes this story significantly better than similar stories, I would have to say “banter.” The banter between these characters is often hilarious, but always clever. The banter demonstrates the utter cohesiveness of the team, and it makes the book so much fun to read.
To say that author Joe Lansdale knows how to turn a phrase is a gross understatement. Further, each of these characters has such a distinct personality that it must have been quite fun to write about them.
I can’t imagine the pacing being any better. It was truly perfect! Between the ongoing banter and the perfect pacing, the reader is led into the climax with no escape routes. Sure, you can stop reading the novel, but by that time that’s not an option.
The timing of the climax is also perfection. It’s not elongated so there’s a chance to catch your breath, but nor is it so quick that you can escape the consequences. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a climax done better, and I’m pretty forthright when it comes to climaxes!
I previously mentioned how awesome these characters are. I’m considering reading the previous twelve episodes of this series just to see how the characters came to be as they are in this story. These folks are so lovable that it’s hard to be critical!
In a series like this, sometimes it’s hard to have closure on one story before beginning the next one. I can say that I had wonderful closure with this story, yet still have a small hope (“hope” real isn’t a good word, but I can’t think of a better one) of the story continuing in another episode.
Just in case you haven’t surmised the obvious, I highly recommend this story for your reading pleasure!
August 20, 2024
I don't mean to brag, but I bought this book at a BookPeople author event starring none other than Joe Lansdale! He is always entertaining at his book signings, and I'm happy to note that he is super nice to his fans. I fumbled while asking him a question about "The Donut Legion" and he took it all in stride. Seriously, y'all, I'm terrible at any kind of public speaking.
I'm also happy to report that this is a stellar Hap and Leaonard mystery filled with evil villains--including a sinister woman with purple eyes. Side note: I had no idea people could be born with purple eyes, but after a quick Google, I discovered that these natural beauties exist in the world, and Elizabeth Taylor was one of them.
Aside from that fun trivia fact, I really enjoyed this new installment, especially the colorful East Texas characters. I had family in Gladewater, so I can attest that the people over there are WEIRD, and I have no doubt Lansdale gets plenty of material whenever he leaves the house. As per usual, the pacing is great, the wisecracks are snappy, and the murder scenes are grisly. But what I love most about these books are the main characters. Hap and Leonard are rough and tough, yet they have soft underbellies that show when they do things like taking two young kids under their wings at the boxing studio. That said, they can be a**holes too, especially toward the beginning of this book when they turned down a potential client who later ended up burnt to a crisp--yikes!
Out of guilt, Hap and Leanord decide to take on her case, which involved two missing girls. Soon enough, they learn this is so much more than a simple missing-person's case when they find clues leading to a highly organized crime ring. Things escalate VERY QUICKLY, when the bad guys catch wind of Hap and Leonard's investigations. It's a good thing they have connections (mainly the sharp-shooting Vanilla) because these killers are BAD NEWS! I'll leave it right here to avoid spoilers, but I will say that this is one heck of a ride that I didn't want to end. I'm interested to see what happens in the next book because Lansdale just dropped a bombshell about one of the main characters that could change everything!!!
I'm also happy to report that this is a stellar Hap and Leaonard mystery filled with evil villains--including a sinister woman with purple eyes. Side note: I had no idea people could be born with purple eyes, but after a quick Google, I discovered that these natural beauties exist in the world, and Elizabeth Taylor was one of them.
Aside from that fun trivia fact, I really enjoyed this new installment, especially the colorful East Texas characters. I had family in Gladewater, so I can attest that the people over there are WEIRD, and I have no doubt Lansdale gets plenty of material whenever he leaves the house. As per usual, the pacing is great, the wisecracks are snappy, and the murder scenes are grisly. But what I love most about these books are the main characters. Hap and Leonard are rough and tough, yet they have soft underbellies that show when they do things like taking two young kids under their wings at the boxing studio. That said, they can be a**holes too, especially toward the beginning of this book when they turned down a potential client who later ended up burnt to a crisp--yikes!
Out of guilt, Hap and Leanord decide to take on her case, which involved two missing girls. Soon enough, they learn this is so much more than a simple missing-person's case when they find clues leading to a highly organized crime ring. Things escalate VERY QUICKLY, when the bad guys catch wind of Hap and Leonard's investigations. It's a good thing they have connections (mainly the sharp-shooting Vanilla) because these killers are BAD NEWS! I'll leave it right here to avoid spoilers, but I will say that this is one heck of a ride that I didn't want to end. I'm interested to see what happens in the next book because Lansdale just dropped a bombshell about one of the main characters that could change everything!!!
July 5, 2024
Sugar on the Bones follows Hap & Leonard as they uncover the mysteries behind a woman's death. This is the second book I've read by Joe R. Lansdale, but the first I've read in this series. It is the thirteenth book in the series. It's possible to read it alone, but I definitely think it would work better for readers who have been reading it and are already familiar with Hap and Leonard's adventures and dynamic.
As with other books by Lansdale, this is a book for adults. It has adult themes, language, and violence that are consistent with the author's works. That being said, this book won't be for everyone. I enjoy a variety of mystery styles in my reading, and this one could best be described as gritty. This isn't for my cozy mystery readers or casual detective fiction readers. This one is for the readers who want to see some of the dark side and are okay with that. It also dabbles in a fair amount of potty humor, which I'm generally unfazed by - if you aren't into it, that aspect might get on your nerves or put a damper on some enjoyment.
For fans of Joe R. Lansdale, this is another fun read. It's gritty and grim, but it certainly has its laughs and humorous beats. After reading this book, I am curious about the duo's earlier adventures and I'd kind of like to see how they reached this point in their careers and partnership. I would be open to diving back into the series to start at the beginning.
I liked the pacing, I was intrigued by the characters, and I've had experience with Lansdale's writing before, so I wasn't too shocked or surprised by his style. For readers who are curious about this book and the author, but don't want to jump into a lengthy series, I highly recommend trying out Things Get Ugly: The Best Crime Fiction of Joe R. Lansdale first to get a really good sample, which I previously reviewed. If you want a grisly crime with a solid pace, and don't mind a dash of potty humor, I recommend Sugar on the Bones for its unexpected balance of humor and grotesque core.
As with other books by Lansdale, this is a book for adults. It has adult themes, language, and violence that are consistent with the author's works. That being said, this book won't be for everyone. I enjoy a variety of mystery styles in my reading, and this one could best be described as gritty. This isn't for my cozy mystery readers or casual detective fiction readers. This one is for the readers who want to see some of the dark side and are okay with that. It also dabbles in a fair amount of potty humor, which I'm generally unfazed by - if you aren't into it, that aspect might get on your nerves or put a damper on some enjoyment.
For fans of Joe R. Lansdale, this is another fun read. It's gritty and grim, but it certainly has its laughs and humorous beats. After reading this book, I am curious about the duo's earlier adventures and I'd kind of like to see how they reached this point in their careers and partnership. I would be open to diving back into the series to start at the beginning.
I liked the pacing, I was intrigued by the characters, and I've had experience with Lansdale's writing before, so I wasn't too shocked or surprised by his style. For readers who are curious about this book and the author, but don't want to jump into a lengthy series, I highly recommend trying out Things Get Ugly: The Best Crime Fiction of Joe R. Lansdale first to get a really good sample, which I previously reviewed. If you want a grisly crime with a solid pace, and don't mind a dash of potty humor, I recommend Sugar on the Bones for its unexpected balance of humor and grotesque core.
August 2, 2024
Joe R. Lansdale is a Texas author who lives in Nacogdoches, and has written over three-hundred titles. Thirteen of those have been a part of his Hap and Leonard series, the most recent installation of which is titled Sugar on the Bones. The book spans 312 pages, and begins with arson, and ends with a statewide conspiracy that Hap, Leonard, and friends feel they have a responsibility to put an end to.
Sugar on the Bones is the thirteenth book of the series, so, as I haven’t read any of the other twelve, I was concerned that I would be confused or lost in the continuity of their universe, but this book is an excellent place to pick up the series. Don’t get me wrong, I most certainly would have understood some jokes or known more about some characters who made appearances, but nothing was confusing by any means at all.
The book itself was intriguing, and I say that as someone who has never been the biggest mystery reader. The case had unexpected swiss and turns, it had red-herrings, and it had solid characters. As far as those characters are concerned, my only critique is that if you only judge them by their dialogue, they seem to be a little copy paste. Meaning, the same type of jokes and humor and rarely a serious conversation. I could imagine the same dialogue from every character. But when you look at the layer below that, the characters have unique aspects and they become their own.
As for the humor, its very crude, but I enjoyed it. Sometimes the crudeness of it caught me off guard (especially near the beginning), but if you don’t mind jokes like that you won't have a problem. And as someone who doesn't always subscribe to that sense of humor, I still found it more funny than I found it off-putting, and it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the novel by any means.
Sugar on the Bones was a fun, funny, and intriguing mystery that I would certainly suggest to any mystery reader, or someone who enjoys a sarcastic, crude sort of humor. I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected I would. Joe R. Lansdale definitely knows how to write a mystery.
Sugar on the Bones is the thirteenth book of the series, so, as I haven’t read any of the other twelve, I was concerned that I would be confused or lost in the continuity of their universe, but this book is an excellent place to pick up the series. Don’t get me wrong, I most certainly would have understood some jokes or known more about some characters who made appearances, but nothing was confusing by any means at all.
The book itself was intriguing, and I say that as someone who has never been the biggest mystery reader. The case had unexpected swiss and turns, it had red-herrings, and it had solid characters. As far as those characters are concerned, my only critique is that if you only judge them by their dialogue, they seem to be a little copy paste. Meaning, the same type of jokes and humor and rarely a serious conversation. I could imagine the same dialogue from every character. But when you look at the layer below that, the characters have unique aspects and they become their own.
As for the humor, its very crude, but I enjoyed it. Sometimes the crudeness of it caught me off guard (especially near the beginning), but if you don’t mind jokes like that you won't have a problem. And as someone who doesn't always subscribe to that sense of humor, I still found it more funny than I found it off-putting, and it didn’t ruin my enjoyment of the novel by any means.
Sugar on the Bones was a fun, funny, and intriguing mystery that I would certainly suggest to any mystery reader, or someone who enjoys a sarcastic, crude sort of humor. I enjoyed it a lot more than I expected I would. Joe R. Lansdale definitely knows how to write a mystery.
August 23, 2024
To be honest, I had no idea about this book until it was published and had thought the big party at the end of the last Hap and Leonard book was a muted swansong to the pair. After a few novels in other directions, Lansdale has returned to his most infamous duo for another adventure through East Texas chasing down the bad men and women who lurk there.
On one hand, this book is very much an ode to Lansdale’s friend, the late Andrew Vachss, to whom the book is dedicated and who’s character Veil appears in the novel. Perhaps this is the reason the book exists in the first place.
LaBorde Police Chief Marvin Hanson is retiring, but has one last favour to ask of Hap, Leonard, and Brett. He wants them to speak with Minnie, a woman who finds herself in a dire situation for which our heroes will need back up hence why Jim Bob and Vanilla are mentioned within the first page of the novel assembling the Lansdale version of the Avengers again. No sooner has Brett mocked Minnie’s declaration of her pronouns and been dismissed has Minnie’s home and her body been burned to a crisp prompting our trio to look into things further.
This is one of those Hap and Leonard books that steers more to mystery territory rather than the rock ‘em, sock ‘em, barb laden variety. It works well in that regard as the villains are for the most part just a faceless evil and this helps to ramp up the tension. It’s weird to say, but at times this one felt more like Hap with Leonard than them being together as their moments together were fewer with an emphasis on these moments as they ponder their age and mortality as well as a couple of scenes training who could be proteges and the potential new generation of vigilante East Texas crime fighters.
For me, Hap and Leonard are cosy blanket of a series and getting one when I least expected it was one of life’s rare gifts. This time I am making no assumptions about whether they’ll be back or not as there were hints they might not, but nothing definitive, which I guess is how I’m happy for it to be.
On one hand, this book is very much an ode to Lansdale’s friend, the late Andrew Vachss, to whom the book is dedicated and who’s character Veil appears in the novel. Perhaps this is the reason the book exists in the first place.
LaBorde Police Chief Marvin Hanson is retiring, but has one last favour to ask of Hap, Leonard, and Brett. He wants them to speak with Minnie, a woman who finds herself in a dire situation for which our heroes will need back up hence why Jim Bob and Vanilla are mentioned within the first page of the novel assembling the Lansdale version of the Avengers again. No sooner has Brett mocked Minnie’s declaration of her pronouns and been dismissed has Minnie’s home and her body been burned to a crisp prompting our trio to look into things further.
This is one of those Hap and Leonard books that steers more to mystery territory rather than the rock ‘em, sock ‘em, barb laden variety. It works well in that regard as the villains are for the most part just a faceless evil and this helps to ramp up the tension. It’s weird to say, but at times this one felt more like Hap with Leonard than them being together as their moments together were fewer with an emphasis on these moments as they ponder their age and mortality as well as a couple of scenes training who could be proteges and the potential new generation of vigilante East Texas crime fighters.
For me, Hap and Leonard are cosy blanket of a series and getting one when I least expected it was one of life’s rare gifts. This time I am making no assumptions about whether they’ll be back or not as there were hints they might not, but nothing definitive, which I guess is how I’m happy for it to be.
September 21, 2024
Another book read by this writer, I always enjoy his work. However, this novel was not as good as his other books. I did enjoy the return of Vanilla. She came into the story a bit late. There is a loose end with the Purple Eyes character. Will she surface again in another novel? I am curious about this.
I look forward to reading this writer's books. I will be on the lookout for a new edition. His characters are always unique and interesting to me.
Al is a new guy in this book and a rich guy who may turn up again. He seemed to connect well with this circle of friends. He lost some of his friends like his mice.
Lansdale has a touch for forming a story with such unique characters almost like those from the comic books, and he uses them to tell the story as his mysteries unfold with clever scenes, entertaining dialogue between his characters, and a lot of action in the scenes.
Hap and Leonard returned in this one. They are a remarkable team of detectives undercover working to solve a mystery and end the injustice of another team of criminals. Their friends always join them to solve these mysteries and back them up in these scenes of violence where they pick off the criminals. Brett often helps with the undercover work to solve these mysteries. Vail will not be returning in another novel but he served a purpose in this one.
Is this the last we will see from this team Hap & Leonard? Five years since they appeared in his books, and is thirteen their lucky number to end their careers? They did mention getting older several times, and they also received a large sum of money from Al at the end of this adventure that ended in another state. Leonard may get hitched soon and Hap is enjoying his married life with Brett. Thirteen installments of their lives in novels may be the end for this team but I do look forward to more exciting stories by Lansdale with interesting, inquiring characters. Carry on, with the mystery novels, no matter what happens to these guys.
I look forward to reading this writer's books. I will be on the lookout for a new edition. His characters are always unique and interesting to me.
Al is a new guy in this book and a rich guy who may turn up again. He seemed to connect well with this circle of friends. He lost some of his friends like his mice.
Lansdale has a touch for forming a story with such unique characters almost like those from the comic books, and he uses them to tell the story as his mysteries unfold with clever scenes, entertaining dialogue between his characters, and a lot of action in the scenes.
Hap and Leonard returned in this one. They are a remarkable team of detectives undercover working to solve a mystery and end the injustice of another team of criminals. Their friends always join them to solve these mysteries and back them up in these scenes of violence where they pick off the criminals. Brett often helps with the undercover work to solve these mysteries. Vail will not be returning in another novel but he served a purpose in this one.
Is this the last we will see from this team Hap & Leonard? Five years since they appeared in his books, and is thirteen their lucky number to end their careers? They did mention getting older several times, and they also received a large sum of money from Al at the end of this adventure that ended in another state. Leonard may get hitched soon and Hap is enjoying his married life with Brett. Thirteen installments of their lives in novels may be the end for this team but I do look forward to more exciting stories by Lansdale with interesting, inquiring characters. Carry on, with the mystery novels, no matter what happens to these guys.
July 3, 2024
Sugar on the Bones was my first foray into the world of Hap and Leonard, and this “irreverent, wise-cracking” mystery had me laughing out loud from the first chapter.
So much so, that I stopped every few minutes to read excerpts to my husband. He was barely able to understand what I was saying through my laughter.
The humor was a welcome contrast not only to the mystery Hap and Leonard were solving but also to the cast of characters Lansdale crafted.
Having grown up in southeast Texas myself, I can confidently say that he captures the deeply ingrained prejudices and resistance to change that exist in pockets of the area.
Yet he does it in a way that shows the complexity of people with big opinions that fly in the face of political correctness and who also act in ways that contradict their intolerance.
Lansdale challenges today’s either-or extremism, calling out both sides with statements like, “Common sense needed a turn at the table.” Then he shows us what that common sense looks like, with characters who face their own bias, like Hap’s wife, Brett, who initially rejects their current case because of the client’s gender pronoun declaration.
This is the impressive underpinning of the larger story, the mystery of who killed Minnie Polson and the search for her missing daughter.
The progression of Hap’s relationship with Brett, his wife, and his friendship with Leonard, his crime-solving partner, are deftly woven through the twists and turns of a case that takes them from Texas to Colorado and back.
The loose thread at the end of the story foreshadows another book in the Hap and Leonard series – one that I will read if and when it’s released. In the meantime, I plan to get to know Hap and Leonard better by reading the first twelve books.
So much so, that I stopped every few minutes to read excerpts to my husband. He was barely able to understand what I was saying through my laughter.
The humor was a welcome contrast not only to the mystery Hap and Leonard were solving but also to the cast of characters Lansdale crafted.
Having grown up in southeast Texas myself, I can confidently say that he captures the deeply ingrained prejudices and resistance to change that exist in pockets of the area.
Yet he does it in a way that shows the complexity of people with big opinions that fly in the face of political correctness and who also act in ways that contradict their intolerance.
Lansdale challenges today’s either-or extremism, calling out both sides with statements like, “Common sense needed a turn at the table.” Then he shows us what that common sense looks like, with characters who face their own bias, like Hap’s wife, Brett, who initially rejects their current case because of the client’s gender pronoun declaration.
This is the impressive underpinning of the larger story, the mystery of who killed Minnie Polson and the search for her missing daughter.
The progression of Hap’s relationship with Brett, his wife, and his friendship with Leonard, his crime-solving partner, are deftly woven through the twists and turns of a case that takes them from Texas to Colorado and back.
The loose thread at the end of the story foreshadows another book in the Hap and Leonard series – one that I will read if and when it’s released. In the meantime, I plan to get to know Hap and Leonard better by reading the first twelve books.
June 23, 2024
Before I dove into Sugar on the Bones, my only experience with Joe R. Lansdale's work was his collection of short stories, Things Get Ugly, which I loved. So, even though this novel is the thirteenth in the Hap and Leonard series, I knew I was going to get a well-crafted story.
Lansdale did not disappoint. His private-eye duo of Hap and Leonard leapt off the page and into my imagination, with their down-home language, affectionate banter, and distinctly different personalities, not to mention that one is Black and the other white, one is gay and the other straight. The friendship and history between the two came through in every scene, and while I'm sure I'd have appreciated more backstory, it wasn't strictly necessary, and this book worked just fine as a standalone.
One thing I really appreciated was Landsdale's ability to write in first person, and to do so well. I never saw an out-of-synch verb tense or felt that the narrator (Hap in this case) knew more than he should.
I also felt the plot was paced well. It's a mystery, of course, and if there isn't a sub-genre called "Texas-noir," there should be, and this novel should be the flagship title, because it was gritty where it needed to be, but also had the right amount of comic relief to keep tensions from boiling over.
Overall, this novel is a fast - almost reckless at times – read, with characters who will take up residence in your brain and squat there forever. I can't wait to go back and read earlier works in this series.
Goes well with: a patty melt and sweet tea.
Lansdale did not disappoint. His private-eye duo of Hap and Leonard leapt off the page and into my imagination, with their down-home language, affectionate banter, and distinctly different personalities, not to mention that one is Black and the other white, one is gay and the other straight. The friendship and history between the two came through in every scene, and while I'm sure I'd have appreciated more backstory, it wasn't strictly necessary, and this book worked just fine as a standalone.
One thing I really appreciated was Landsdale's ability to write in first person, and to do so well. I never saw an out-of-synch verb tense or felt that the narrator (Hap in this case) knew more than he should.
I also felt the plot was paced well. It's a mystery, of course, and if there isn't a sub-genre called "Texas-noir," there should be, and this novel should be the flagship title, because it was gritty where it needed to be, but also had the right amount of comic relief to keep tensions from boiling over.
Overall, this novel is a fast - almost reckless at times – read, with characters who will take up residence in your brain and squat there forever. I can't wait to go back and read earlier works in this series.
Goes well with: a patty melt and sweet tea.
June 25, 2024
Joe R. Lansdale, the master of his craft, returns with a captivating tale featuring the iconic duo Hap and Leonard. The narrative is a labyrinth of surprises, leading to unforeseen outcomes that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This story's fresh perspective on these beloved characters makes it undeniably special, showcasing the longstanding bond between the men.
Hap and Leonard turn down a case because they don’t care for the client. But when the client’s daughter is murdered, they change their tune and dig in with all the tenacity they possess. That is the turning point where mystery escalates, ramping up the thrills as the crime-fighting pair embark on a dangerous adventure filled with nonstop action. The charm of these two relatable characters captivates readers' imaginations as the story unfolds.
For those new to Mr. Lansdale's work, ‘Sugar on the Bones’ offers a delightful escape from the ordinary to the extraordinary. The characters' relatable traits and familiar dialogue make them feel like old friends. While the author’s repertoire is diverse, this novel is a solid introduction to an author who makes readers laugh at the situations, gasp at the unexpected violence, and relate to long-standing friends.
‘Sugar on the Bones’ is a story you can enjoy this summer while on vacation. Once you read this book, don’t hesitate to check out the other Hap and Leonard adventures by Joe R. Lansdale, beginning with book one to enjoy the evolution of these friends.
Hap and Leonard turn down a case because they don’t care for the client. But when the client’s daughter is murdered, they change their tune and dig in with all the tenacity they possess. That is the turning point where mystery escalates, ramping up the thrills as the crime-fighting pair embark on a dangerous adventure filled with nonstop action. The charm of these two relatable characters captivates readers' imaginations as the story unfolds.
For those new to Mr. Lansdale's work, ‘Sugar on the Bones’ offers a delightful escape from the ordinary to the extraordinary. The characters' relatable traits and familiar dialogue make them feel like old friends. While the author’s repertoire is diverse, this novel is a solid introduction to an author who makes readers laugh at the situations, gasp at the unexpected violence, and relate to long-standing friends.
‘Sugar on the Bones’ is a story you can enjoy this summer while on vacation. Once you read this book, don’t hesitate to check out the other Hap and Leonard adventures by Joe R. Lansdale, beginning with book one to enjoy the evolution of these friends.
August 18, 2024
When I first started reading this book I thought, ah man, [spoiler] is gonna die in this one. Sure enough, I was right. But I didn't expect there to be more than one regular taking their final bow in this one.
Hap and Leonard are up to the usual: solving crimes and cracking wise. And Leonard has all new kinds of hats to bug Hap with. I particularly liked the one with the bear ears. If I didn't have such a large head, I'd probably do what Leonard does, but very few hats fit my noggin. This time Hanson comes to them with a case: a rich woman's daughter has gone missing. If you read the flap copy it implies that Hap and Leonard screw the pooch on this one, but it's actually Brett who torpedoes the case with her big mouth. Unfortunately the rich woman dies in a fire, and Brett feels really bad about it. So they decide they're going to poke around a bit.
Even when Kung Fu Bobby, a villain from a previous book, shows up telling Hap to get out of this case, Hap doesn't do it. Because he's Hap, and because the rest are Leonard and Brett and Jim Bob (I love Jim Bob, especially when he introduces himself by his stripper name, Long Dong Larry) and the rest of the bunch. It's a veritable Hap and Leonard reunion, there are so many characters from the past in this one.
I love Hap and Leonard, and this is one of their best books. Lots of adventure, violence and humor. Business as usual for Lansdale, but not for the rest of us. Go read it!
Hap and Leonard are up to the usual: solving crimes and cracking wise. And Leonard has all new kinds of hats to bug Hap with. I particularly liked the one with the bear ears. If I didn't have such a large head, I'd probably do what Leonard does, but very few hats fit my noggin. This time Hanson comes to them with a case: a rich woman's daughter has gone missing. If you read the flap copy it implies that Hap and Leonard screw the pooch on this one, but it's actually Brett who torpedoes the case with her big mouth. Unfortunately the rich woman dies in a fire, and Brett feels really bad about it. So they decide they're going to poke around a bit.
Even when Kung Fu Bobby, a villain from a previous book, shows up telling Hap to get out of this case, Hap doesn't do it. Because he's Hap, and because the rest are Leonard and Brett and Jim Bob (I love Jim Bob, especially when he introduces himself by his stripper name, Long Dong Larry) and the rest of the bunch. It's a veritable Hap and Leonard reunion, there are so many characters from the past in this one.
I love Hap and Leonard, and this is one of their best books. Lots of adventure, violence and humor. Business as usual for Lansdale, but not for the rest of us. Go read it!
July 19, 2024
I read a few reviews of this by people picking up a Hap & Leonard book for the first time. There's an event that happens a little over halfway through this book that I wondered if it would have the same powerful emotional resonance for those of us who have read the whole series. A lot of good series start, get better for a few books and then peter out when they go too long. Lansdale's Hap & Leonard series may be one of the few that gets better, in fact this might be my favorite of them. It follows the general cadence of many of the books in the series, except this time it's a bit of a series all-star reunion and the above-mentioned event is not only a major punch in the gut but amazingly the sequence also has some of the funniest jokes in the book, the range of emotions it evoked was downright astonishing. Start with "Savage Season" and read the lot, there are so many great books in the series but this one felt a bit of a culmination of a lot of what came before and it's worth it. It also acts as something of a nice tribute to Andrew Vachss as well. I've never read any Lansdale I don't like, most of them I love and a few of them, like this one, are stone classics. Entertainment was never finer.
May 2, 2024
This is a favorite series, featuring Hap & Leonard, two outrageous Texas characters who take care of business and avenge wrong-doing. Despite their differences (one is Black, one is White, one is gay, one is straight) they are really more like brothers.
Hap & Leonard don't go looking for trouble, but they can't stand to see someone up against it with no one to help. They have an eclectic group of compadres who help them out. And they have no compunction whatsoever about killing bad guys who need to be eliminated. The interaction between the two main characters is often laugh out loud funny and their banter is the best thing about the books. The characterizations are well-drawn and nicely fleshed out.
This time out they turn down a case involving a missing daughter because they don't really get along with the prospective client. But when she is murdered, they feel bad and decide they need to make things right. Then they are off and running on an adventure involving a deadly ring of organ thieves, among other things. This pair is easy to root for.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hap & Leonard don't go looking for trouble, but they can't stand to see someone up against it with no one to help. They have an eclectic group of compadres who help them out. And they have no compunction whatsoever about killing bad guys who need to be eliminated. The interaction between the two main characters is often laugh out loud funny and their banter is the best thing about the books. The characterizations are well-drawn and nicely fleshed out.
This time out they turn down a case involving a missing daughter because they don't really get along with the prospective client. But when she is murdered, they feel bad and decide they need to make things right. Then they are off and running on an adventure involving a deadly ring of organ thieves, among other things. This pair is easy to root for.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 18, 2024
Hap Collins is happily married to Brett. Leonard Pine is contemplating marriage to Pookie, a cop in LaBorde. Minnie Polson tries to hire the trio to investigate the disappearance of her daughter, Alice, but they are not interested. The next day, Minnie is dead and her house burned to the ground. Hap wakes up one night with the creepy feeling someone is in his and Brett's house. Sitting in the kitchen is Kung Fu Bobbie, a very bad man that Hap did not kill a few years back, so Bobbie feels obligated to tell Hap that he, Leonard and Brett are on a short list of people to be killed by an East Texas very, very bad man. Sure enough, as Brett, Hap and Leonard investigate Minnie's death, they end up running from assassins and watch their good friend getting murdered. They discover Minnie's daughter, Alice is dead, probably murdered by the same group who are kidnapping people and selling their organs. As always, murder and mayhem follow Hap and Leonard. However, both of them are getting older and they are beginning to realize perhaps it is time to hang up their guns and ride peacefully into the sunset. Yeah...I don't think so! Another great entry in the series. Recommended, as always.
August 23, 2024
When the publisher offered me this book, I noticed it was book #13 in the series, but I thought, what the heck, let's see what these Texas PIs are all about.
I’m so glad I did! Joe Lansdale has crafted a freelance detective duo of straight-shooting jokesters who are making a play for the perfect anti-heroes. These characters had me laughing, including Hap’s wife, Brett, as they aren’t afraid to say what they are thinking.
This is a gritty, fast-paced, crime-fighting novel, with bloody shoot-outs, a kick-butt woman assassin, and, unfortunately, friends-in-arms dying.
While I enjoyed this book, starting this journey with Hap and Leonard earlier would have been much more rewarding. Several characters came to help them solve this crime, but I didn’t quite understand their connections. It would have added to the enjoyment to know the backstory. Hap and Leonard refer to aging, so you get a sense that they have been in this together for a long time. I hope to read more of their antics before they retire.
They reminded me a lot of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, but raunchier.
Thank you @littlebrown for this gifted book.
August 21, 2024
This is one I would give 4 1/2 stars too if Goodreads had a mechanism for adding half a star.
Anyway, Hap and Leonard are back, and interesting enough, dealing with the death of a prospective client after an interview gone bad. What I particularly like is how this novel shows Hap and company dealing with the times, after an off-color remark from his lover Brett causes some friction with their would-be client. My only issue is this issue - of Hap and company dealing with and reflecting on the present culture is summarily dropped almost as soon as its introduced.
That said, there's still a lot to love about this. Hap and Leonard are in rare form, even if the characters are dealing with changes in their lives. While the exact age of Lansdale's famous pair are often in debate, there's no denying they are getting long in the tooth at this point in the story, and book punches all the more for it.
Overall, it's a fast and fun read, while still offering some more tantalizing hints at where Hap and Leonard may go in the future.
Anyway, Hap and Leonard are back, and interesting enough, dealing with the death of a prospective client after an interview gone bad. What I particularly like is how this novel shows Hap and company dealing with the times, after an off-color remark from his lover Brett causes some friction with their would-be client. My only issue is this issue - of Hap and company dealing with and reflecting on the present culture is summarily dropped almost as soon as its introduced.
That said, there's still a lot to love about this. Hap and Leonard are in rare form, even if the characters are dealing with changes in their lives. While the exact age of Lansdale's famous pair are often in debate, there's no denying they are getting long in the tooth at this point in the story, and book punches all the more for it.
Overall, it's a fast and fun read, while still offering some more tantalizing hints at where Hap and Leonard may go in the future.
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