It has been said of Robert B. Parker that he “pretty much defies category altogether” (The New York Times Book Review). And it’s true, when it comes to writing, Robert B. Parker knows few boundaries. From his iconic Spenser detective series -- now entering its fourth decade! -- to the two crime series featuring Boston P.I. Sunny Randall and Massachusetts sheriff Jesse Stone, Parker’s imagination has earned him a following that few writers can claim today. Now, in Hundred-Dollar Baby (October 24, 2006; $24.95), Parker takes us back to Boston and his much beloved PI, Spenser.

Longtime Spenser fans will remember that once upon a time, there was a girl named April Kyle -- a beautiful teenage runaway who turned to prostitution to escape her terrible family life. The book was 1982’s Ceremony, and thanks to Spenser, April escaped Boston’s “Combat Zone” for the relative safety of a high-class New York City bordello. April resurfaced in Taming a Sea-Horse, again in dire need of Spenser’s rescue -- this time from the clutches of a controlling lover. But April Kyle’s return in Hundred-Dollar Baby is nothing short of shocking. She is now a well-established madame overseeing an upscale and very successful all-girl run operation -- when some men try to take it away from her, she turns to Spenser. Along with partner, Hawk, their legwork will lead them through a labyrinth of organized crime as well as a scheme to franchise the call-girl operation across the country.

Robert B. Parker is the author of over fifty bestsellers, including School Days, Sea Change and Blue Screen. He lives in Cambridge with his wife, Joan.

Publicity Contact:

Michael Barson, Co-Director of Publicity
212-366-2547
michael.barson@us.penguingroup.com