A review by liberrydude
Strangers by Bill Pronzini

3.0

Nameless reluctantly but dutifully goes to Nevada to help an ex-lover's son, Cody, who has been accused of three rapes. From the beginning there's a pervading sense of bleakness and gloom about this mission that's complemented by the town of Mineral Springs' dour residents and the harsh desert environment. Nameless immediately meets a wall of hostility and disdain from the small town. He's not sure if the town's sheriff is part of the problem or an objective and impartial enforcer of the law. He is not even allowed to meet with the accused who has been branded guilty by all concerned on circumstantial evidence. Worse Cody's lawyer doesn't seem qualified. He's not a criminal lawyer and a man who is just going through the motions. Nameless further has to deal with personal attacks on the ex-lover, Cheryl, and the jealousy of one of her suitors. There's money in the town due to gold mines but not much else out here except for some eccentric loners. The plot is no nonsense and fast as Nameless is quickly able to find out what's really going in and in the process earns the respect of the local sheriff. After a job like this one wonders if Nameless will consider retirement. It was a real soul drainer.