The Bookman’s Promise by John Dunning

This third installment in John Dunning’s imaginative and engaging Bookman series (following The Bookman’s Wake) is centered on a book that could change the face of American history: an inscribed edition of a travel journal by 19th-century British explorer Richard Burton.

Cliff Janeway, former Denver homicide cop turned antiquarian bookseller, discovers that the rare Burton book he’s just won at auction may in fact be owned by Josephine Gallant, an elderly woman whose grandfather accompanied the explorer on his little-known journey through the pre–Civil War South. Gallant informs Janeway that her grandfather owned a priceless collection of Burton’s works that remained in the family for years before falling prey to a pair of conniving booksellers. As the old woman lies dying, Janeway sets off to recover the books — but not before a close friend is murdered and a mysterious figure begins to stalk everyone connected to the collection.

A heady mix of historical intrigue and contemporary suspense, Dunning’s tale draws us into a unique world inhabited by fascinating and believable characters. Bibiliophiles, and mystery lovers alike will find The Bookman’s Promise a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.