I have new essay up at Criminal Element about the May 1st release of Lullaby, Ace Atkins first Spenser novel. Is it a good idea to continue the Spenser series after the death of author Robert B. Parker? Is this outright heresy? Or is it something more? Check it out and tell me what you think.
It’s a cashcow that the estate, family and publishers of Robert B Parker are unwilling to leave behind.
ReplyDeleteIt’s neither laudable, nor is it a betrayal, it’s just product.
Not that I wish to sound unduly pessimistic or anything.
Oh, I don't think that's unduly pessimistic. I think you're clearly correct, in fact.
ReplyDeleteHaving said that, it's all product. It was product when Parker did it. Every permutation of Sherlock Holmes has been product, too. I'm not sure that's a disqualifying factor, though. The question is whether or not the character can keep going, can become a creation that extends beyond the original books. That'll be interesting to see.