Robert B. Parker's Showdown

Spenser #52

by Mike Lupica, Robert B. Parker

Spenser may have uncovered an explosive secret that threatens the career of a controversial figure, in this latest installment of Robert B. Parker’s beloved series.

Vic Hale isn’t anyone’s idea of a father figure. He is one of the biggest – and loudest — podcasters in the nation and got there by spewing overheated rhetoric that’s reviled by some but loved by even more. His particular brand of “entertainment” is so successful, he’s about to sign the biggest contract in the history of online broadcasting. Vic’s riding high…until he gets a visit from Spenser, who specializes in bringing guys like Hale back down to Earth.

Spenser is there on behalf of Daniel Lopez, a young man who believes Hale may be his father. It’s a potentially explosive revelation for a man in the podcaster’s position and it might even be enough to blow up his massive new deal. That could explain the bodies that start popping up – bodies connected in one way or another with the mystery surrounding Daniel’s birth. There are a lot of questions remaining, and Spenser’s going to have to find the answers before someone shuts Hale or Daniel up for good.

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Thriller

352 pages, Hardcover

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Michael Lupica is an author and American newspaper columnist, best known for his provocative commentary on sports in the New York Daily News and his appearances on ESPN.

Reviews

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mike Lupica returns with the fifty-second book in the Spenser private detective mystery series started by Robert B. Parker, Showdown. In this latest novel, lawyer Rita Fiore introduces Spenser to Daniel Lopez, a young man getting ready to start law school and who believe his father may be Vic Hale. Vic is one of the biggest and loudest podcasters in the nation. He is reviled by many and loved by others as he talks about immigrants and immigration. If Lopez is Hale’s son, it could derail a massive deal that is in the works for Hale. Bodies and assaults keep happening as Spenser investigates with his new intern, Cassius Moore.

Spenser is self-reliant, protects those he cares about fiercely, and is confident. He’s a strong protagonist with a level of determination that many lack. He’s also a tough guy who cooks and loves baseball and old movies. Psychologist Susan Silverman is his long-time girlfriend and sounding board and his friend Hawk is around for the occasional support and banter. It was great to also catch up with the familiar characters from the series.

I feel that Mike Lupica is keeping the characters relatively true to the original stories by Parker and I’m grateful we can continue to enjoy new Spenser mysteries. That, combined with the author’s own writing style and voice as well as a fresh plot and great prose made this a fun book to read. The world-building is great with Boston and its suburbs as the scene for most of the novel. From food to neighborhood bars to criminals to the police, readers find themselves immersed in the imagery. As always there are also literary references and lots of discussion around baseball and food.

The writing is crisp with snappy dialogue and great characterization. The narrative lured me in and made me want to stay longer with old friends. The well-crafted and suspenseful story hooked me from the beginning despite feeling a little repetitive and slower in the middle of the book. Themes include lies, secrets, money, murder, found family, immigration, friendship, and much more.

Overall, this is a solid and enjoyable mystery with familiar characters filled with intense moments and some action that kept me turning the pages. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Those who enjoy crime mystery and private detective stories will likely enjoy this book with its engrossing plot, fast pace, and snappy dialogue.

Putnam – G. P. Putnam’s Sons and Mike Lupica provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 25, 2025.
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My 3.87 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

"When I was upstairs, I made myself a fried-egg sandwich with cheddar cheese on sourdough bread and spicy Wickles Pickles on the side and opened a bottle of Samuel Adams Summer Ale and watched the Red Sox postgame show on NESN, having listened to almost the whole game on the drive home [from Vermont]. They had won again. Six in a row. At least somebody was on a roll these days." -- self-styled gourmet and Beantown baseball fan Spenser (oh, and he's also a private eye, BTW), on page 276

Showdown is author Lupica's third leap into the durable 'Spenser' universe - and, appropriately, creator/author Robert B. Parker's name still looms large on the covers - and features one of those occasional bursts of topical or contemporary relevance in this long-running series that reached the half-century mark two years ago. Spenser is asked by his saucy attorney friend Rita Fiore - who has recovered and rebounded quite nicely from her horrific assault in the previous book - to delve into a stone-cold paternity mystery involving an earnest young law school student, his recently murdered mother, and the unidentified biological father. While I wasn't much of a fan of the heavy-handed plot angle involving that disc jockey-turned-podcaster - it was often unsubtle, or just eye-rollingly obvious about how the readers were supposed to perceive of him and his divisive political stance (definitely no shades of grey present here) - it was outweighed by one of the better recent depictions of P.I. Spenser performing actual and plausible investigatory legwork, and not hinging on an over-reliance of shoot-outs and fistfights. Besides the expected but always-welcome appearances and humorous bantering of eternal supporting characters Hawk, Susan, and cops Belson and Quirk we also get a cameo by Parker's other sturdy creation, small town police chief Jesse Stone, and the promising introduction of Spenser's enigmatic new administrative assistant of sorts named Cassius.

[R L HERSKOWITZ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Spenser.
Spencer, Hawk, Susan Silverman and Rita Fiore are involved in this story.
Spenser has an interesting assistant, too.
I’d like to see more of him in the future.
Also, baseball is talked mentioned often.
Personally, I enjoy baseball.
There are references to boxing, as well.

Great characterization and dialogue.
However, this book needed more editing
(I noticed redundant descriptions).
Otherwise, the story was good.

I enjoyed reading this book. 😊

[Jack Hance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ‘m not sure how many Spenser books I’ve read, dozens at least, not counting the spin-off series, Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall. Initially tge passing of the torch from Parker to new writers, which started even before he died, seemed refreshing, and positive. Mike Lupica waa clearly a Spenser aficionado, and included all the trivia and old references, but fixated less on how beautiful Susan was and kept the mentions of her Harvard PhD to perhaps one or two per book (from dozens). But the series is over fifty years old, and while Spenser’s knees are starting to go, showing clear signs of aging. Rita Fiore and Susan Silverman, women now in their seventies, have not been allowed to age. Perhaps even Lupica is tiring of the same cliches. I totally agreed with the express and implied criticism of right wing podcast journalism here, snd the dangers of demonizing all immigration, but this book had too much political commentary. It seemed too much like our ugly reality, and I read fiction in part to escape that. The ‘mystery’ here was superficial and the ending seemed contrived.

[Ward Whipple · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even when Robert B. Parker was alive, my barometer for a successful Spenser novel was whether it made me laugh out loud, and how many times. With this one, I lost count. Lupica nailed the voice when he took over the franchise (as did Ace Atkins), and he's helped all the familiar characters live and breathe naturally. The story and plot are timely, and some of the characters reflect not only the times, but their own aging. Well done. (Thanks also to NetGalley for providing an uncorrected proof -- with minimal typos! -- for my review.)

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Robert B. Parker’s Showdown” by Mike Lupica is the latest installment in this always entertaining series. Spenser is back with Hawk, Susan, and Pearl the wonder dog by his side, as he tries to help solve a paternity suit brought to him by close friend and colleague Rita Fiore. The storyline is strong and very topically current. The book is fast paced and filled with lots of the usual Spencer snark that kept me smiling from the first chapter to the unexpected finish.

Thank you NetGalley and Putnam for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Has it really been 25 years since Spenser series creator Robert B. Parker passed away? And (whew!) 52 books since the series debut with The Goodwulf Manuscript? Even more unbelievable to me is that both my late husband and I have been there all the way (alas, for him until this installment). And this one, too, doesn’t disappoint, and I know he would have loved reading it probably even more than I did.

Of course, we’ve read all of Parker’s books that have been written by other writers; most have done exemplary jobs. With Spenser, though, I was happy to see one of our favorites – Mike Lupica – take the reins of the series, which is our favorite of the bunch. The reason, at least in my mind, is that he makes it seem (almost) as though Parker never left the building. And so far, he’s the only one who has been able to put realistic dialog in the mouth of Spenser sidekick Hawk. Maybe it’s the sports writer connection – ya know what I’m sayin’?

Anyway, this one brings at least a mention of several favorite characters – first and foremost drop-dead-gorgeous Rita Fiore, who has long had the hots for Spenser, Susan Silverman (Spenser’s main and only squeeze who will never be replaced by anyone, even Rita), the aforementioned Hawk, and even Maine police chief Jesse Stone, long a Spenser friend and the star of another long-running Parker series.

It is Rita, in fact, that provides Spenser’s involvement in this story. She wants him to meet Daniel Lopez, a college-age kid, who when going through his late mother’s belongings came to believe he’s the son of Vic Hale. That’s not necessarily a big deal, except that Hale is a bigly popular podcaster - one who spews hatred and racism to all who listen. Hale is also about to ink a deal that will shoot him into the financial stratosphere; understandably, admitting that he has a son – the result of a dalliance with an immigrant like those he rails about in his podcasts – would put the kabosh on the deal.

For his part, Daniel has no intention of backing down; he’s not in it for the money, he insists – just wants an admission that Vic is his father. Problem is, when Spenser and his buddies start to investigate, the bad guys start revving up; threats, both mental and physical, begin flying in from all directions – some of them a bit unexpected (as only the threat of losing tons of money will do). Spenser turns to his old frenemy Tony Marcus for help, which may or may not turn out to be a good thing; on the side of the law, other old friends like cop Frank Belson prove good to have around.

In the end, it’s quite an adventure, with danger lingering around every dark corner. Through it all, Spenser and Hawk maintain their allegiance (and amazing survival ability), Susan remains a gorgeous sounding board and some of the bad guys get their comeuppance. All told, it’s another winner – and I’m already looking forward to the next adventure. Meantime, many thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to read and review a pre-release copy.

[Maryann Forbes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when reading a book feels like a reunion with old friends, and that is exactly what reading Mike Lupica's newly released Robert B. Parker's Showdown felt like. I am a longtime Spenser fan, and Showdown is definitely one of my favorites of the 52 books in this prolific series. It is a very timely read as it features Vic Hale, a powerful and popular podcaster who preaches hate toward immigrants, yet as is the reality of the world has many followers. Rita Fiore introduces Spenser to 20 year old Daniel Lopez, a bright and articulate college student and activist for immigration. Lopez believes Vic Hale is his biological father from a relationship with Marisol Lopez, originally from Guatemala. Marisol worked for Hale as a maid; they had a short lived relationship; imagine what his followers would think of that!
Daniel discovered a DNA test indicating Hale was his father when going through Marisol's personal effects after she was killed while withdrawing $200.00 from an ATM? Was it another random killing as the police thought or could it have been intentional? The news of Marisol and Daniel would definitely upend Hale's popularity when it was at its peak, and some powerful investors were planning a major and extremely lucrative deal. Showdown is a hard to put down novel, and includes all of the Spenser characters: Hawk, Susan Silverman, Frank Beldon, Martin Quirk and Rita Fiore. It also introduces a new character, Cassius Moore ( or less), a cunning and likeable computer specialist. I laughed out loud at the dialog and thoroughly enjoyed everything about Showdown. Thank you to NetGalley, G.P. Putnam's Sons and Mike Lupica for the opportunity to read Showdown; my review reflects my honest opinion. 4.5 stars.

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mike Lupica is the author of the latest Spencer for Hire. As a longtime reader of Spenser, I enjoyed the read. I thought I had the “father mystery” figured out. I was wrong. A podcaster with an anti-immigration message heavily featured in the story. All the great Spencer’s players are present; Hawk, Susan, Rita, Frank Beldon and Martin Quirk. Liked the addition of Cassius and his new J-O-B and hope to see more of him. Good story.

[Hobart · Rating 4 out of 5]

★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
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WHAT'S SHOWDOWN ABOUT?
Rita Fiore comes to Spenser for some help—she has a client, Daniel, a young man who has come to Boston to confront the man he thinks is his biological father. Daniel’s mother has recently been killed and while going through her effects, he found some things that made him believe what he’d been told about the father he’d never met was untrue and that Vic Hale was his actual father.

Vic Hale is a podcaster with an audience close to Rogan’s and politics several yards to the right of Rush Limbaugh. A frequent obsession for Hale is illegal immigration. Daniel’s mother had been an undocumented worker employed by Hale. If Daniel went public, it could likely bring down (at least shake) Hale’s media empire and possibly damage the multi-million dollar deal he’s on the verge of signing. (it's up in the air which is more important to Hale)

Daniel, an up-and-coming immigration activist, would relish that. But before he does that, he wants to confront his father personally (and Rita would like a little more proof of his paternity). This is where Spenser comes in.

Then Spenser uncovers connections to a local mobster. And then more money gets introduced into the picture. Then someone is killed. And well…you know how things go from there.

A COUPLE OF QUIRKS (NO, NOT MARTIN)
These aren’t problems with the book, and if these things disappear with next year’s novel, I won’t mind. But if they continue for long, Lupica will have altered these characters in a way that I’m not wild about.

Susan winks a lot in this particular novel. Perhaps as often as she had in the previous 52 books combined, I could be exaggerating, but it doesn’t feel that way. Parker (and Atkins) typically let the dialogue lines carry that connotation—perhaps with one of Susan’s variety of smiles. If she winked once, I wouldn’t have minded. But when it happened twice within a few pages, it got my attention, and then screamed at me every time afterward. Just roll it back a little.

The other thing that got under my skin is the way that Spenser keeps dropping bits of trivia that those around him (Hawk, Susan, Quirk, Belson, and others—maybe even Tony Marcus) find annoying, and will mock him for. Spenser even engages in a bit of self-mockery about it, as if this is something he’s spent years doing. Spenser doesn’t go out of his way to show off his knowledge like this—yes, he’ll drop a historical note when appropriate, he’ll use a sesquipedalian word from time to time (particularly to needle someone who is condescending toward him), he’ll make literary allusions/drop quotations often. But he’s not the kind of guy who’ll hit pause while watching a TV show/movie to inform others in the room about some point about an actor, script note, or a directorial choice.* Spenser’s only a show off when he thinks it’ll impress Susan—not in a way that will annoy anyone.

Also, the constant references to Spenser’s age feel a little dangerous—Parker had left him frozen in time, and while Atkins had made it clear that he was on the older end of things, he kept it vaguer than that (which fit the direction Parker had set up).

* I know it’s annoying and I really shouldn’t, but I only do it for things that are illuminating or incredibly interesting (to me, if no one else).

SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT SHOWDOWN?
There were two major reveals in store for the reader—I was certain I’d had one sussed out from almost the beginning, and I couldn’t have been more wrong. I’m not sure if I should’ve come up with it on my own if I hadn’t been so distracted, maybe…just maybe. The other might as well have had neon signs pointing to it throughout. I do buy Spenser et al. not seeing it, however. 1 out of 2 ain’t bad (for Lupica or me).

I think the story meandered a little bit, chewing up pages for the sake of chewing up pages—making me think of Lupica again as emulating latter-day Parker. So that’s a plus, in a strange way. And really, none of the meandering hurt anything—much more of it would’ve.

The addition of a new character—Spenser’s intern Cassius, was a choice—as my kids used to say. Perhaps a good one (it certainly helps with the technophobic PI getting help with databases, social media, and whatnot). I’m holding my tongue on it for at least one more novel. I sort of wish that Mattie Sullivan would’ve filled that role, at least to an extent. Or maybe Sixkill.

At the end of the day, readers pick up a Spenser novel for the characters, the banter, and a little action. Lupica delivers those here (even if the characters are a little out of focus). There's a bit about Noah Kahan that made me hoot (and annoyed my daughter). I think Hot Property was a better Spenser novel—and will be the standard by which I’m going to judge Lupica going forward. Still, while not as satisfying, it did the job and I’m more than ready to return to the series in a year or so.

[Bookreporter.com Mystery & Thriller · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Robert B. Parker passed away in 2010, he left behind a fine legacy of work and a unique collection of characters. Perhaps the most iconic of the bunch is Spenser. Thanks to the diligence of excellent writers like Mike Lupica who have helped keep the series alive, Spenser’s fans continue to enjoy watching him take his act into the present day.

ROBERT B. PARKER’S SHOWDOWN is the latest Spenser novel penned by Lupica. It revolves around an infamous podcaster in Boston who finds out that he may have a son out of wedlock of Guatemalan descent. If this turns out to be true, it will not go over well with Vic Hale, who has built his reputation on yelling about traditional American values that do not include people who look like the young man claiming to be his son --- college student Daniel Lopez from Miami.

Spenser is brought into the case by attorney and friend Rita Fiore. Daniel’s mother, Marisol, was recently murdered during a $200 ATM robbery. Once upon a time, Marisol had been Hale’s housekeeper. They had a sexual relationship that led to Daniel’s birth following her relocation to Miami. Daniel is now in Boston due to his connection with Rita, and they reach out to Spenser for his aid in approaching Hale. Hale’s father had been Spenser’s friend and mentor. The hope is that he can lean on this connection to get a face-to-face meeting with Hale.

After getting past his gatekeeping producer, Spenser does meet with Hale, who recalls that his father once saved Spenser’s life. Outside of that, their meeting does not go well. Hale is as difficult to reach in person as he is on his right-wing podcast. He admits to being intimately involved with Marisol but vehemently denies being Daniel’s father --- even though Marisol had a DNA test done, and there is a record of monthly checks sent from Hale to Marisol in Miami after she left his employment. Hale has two bodyguard thugs who attempt to persuade Spenser to drop the matter, first verbally and later physically.

Meanwhile, Daniel is visited in Boston by his own podcaster contact from Miami, Ricardo Baez, who knows the particulars of the case and fully supports Daniel’s platform regarding immigration rights. Baez is not very forthcoming with Spenser, which is unfortunate because Spenser might have been able to prevent his murder. Now, Spenser and Rita must fend off the Boston P.D. while trying to find out who killed Baez. The bigger issue is that Daniel may not be sharing his full intentions, which could put him next in line for a bullet.

It seems too obvious to lay the blame on Hale, especially when he has a former wrestling executive backing his podcast, as well as an investor from Miami who also produced Baez. In typical Spenser fashion, he will continue to dig deeper and get on the wrong side of nearly everyone potentially tied to the case. There is no better man for this job, though, especially considering that Spenser may be the only person able to keep Daniel and Hale from being the next targets on a sinister hit list.

It is a pure delight to watch Mike Lupica not only keep the snarky dialogue of the original Spenser novels, but seamlessly move it forward with present-day storylines. ROBERT B. PARKER’S SHOWDOWN is a shout-out to classic crime noir and is not to be missed.

Reviewed by Ray Palen

[Ray Palen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 Stars

When author Robert B. Parker passed away in 2010, he left behind a fine legacy of work and a unique collection of fictional characters. Perhaps the most iconic character of the bunch is Spenser and, due to the diligence of fine writers like Mike Lupica who have continued this series, Spenser’s fans continue to enjoy watching him take his act into the present day.

ROBERT B. PARKER’S SHOWDOWN is the latest Spenser novel penned by Lupica and it involves an infamous podcaster named Vic Hale in Boston who finds out he may have a son out of wedlock of Guatemalan descent. If this turns out to be true, it will not go over well for Vic Hale who has built his reputation on yelling about traditional American values that do not involve people that look like the young man claiming to be his son, College student Daniel Lopez from Miami.

Spenser is brought into this case by attorney and friend Rita Fiore, who had a professional colleague with ties to Marisol Lopez, Daniel’s mother who was recently murdered during a $200 ATM robbery. Marisol had once upon a time been housekeeper to Vic Hale and they had a sexual relationship, the end result being the birth of Daniel following her relocation to Miami. Daniel is now in Boston via his connection with Rita and they are reaching out to Spenser for his aid in approaching Vic Hale. Vic’s father, Tommy, had once been a friend and mentor to Spenser and the hope was that he could lean on this relationship with the late father to get a face-to-face meeting with Vic.

After getting past his gatekeeping producer, Spenser meets with Vic who recalls the fact that his father Tommy once saved Spenser’s life. Outside of that, the meeting does not go well, with Vic being as difficult to reach in person as he is on his radical Right-wing podcast. He admits to the sexual relationship with Marisol but vehemently denies being Daniel’s father --- even though Marisol had a DNA test done to validate this and there was record of monthly checks sent from Vic to Marisol in Miami after she left his employment.

Hale has two bodyguard thugs who attempt to persuade Spenser to drop things, both verbally and later physically. Meanwhile, Daniel is visited in Boston by his own podcaster contact from Miami, a young man named Ricardo Baez who knows the particulars of the case and fully supports Daniel’s platform regarding immigration rights. Baez is not very forthcoming with Spenser, which is unfortunate because our favorite Private Detective might have been able to prevent his murder, the result of two bullets to the chest. Now, Spenser and Rita must fend off the Boston P.D. while trying to find out who may be behind this murder. The bigger issue is the fact that Daniel may not be sharing his full intentions, which could put him next in line for a bullet.

It seems too obvious to lay the blame on Vic Hale, especially when he has a former Wrestling executive backing his popular podcast as well as an investor from Miami named Mauricio Estrella, who also produced the late Ricardo Baez. In typical Spenser fashion, he will continue to dig deeper and get on the wrong side of nearly everyone potentially involved in the case. There is no better man for this job, however, especially when Spenser may be the only person able to keep both Daniel and Vic from being the next target on a sinister hit list.

It is a pure delight to watch Mike Lupica not only keep with the spirit and snarky dialogue of the original Spenser novels but seamlessly move it forward with present day plotlines. ROBERT B. PARKER’S SHOWDOWN is a shout-out to classic crime noir and not to be missed.

Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter

[Bill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spenser is back in action! The Estate of Robert Parker and their publisher have made excellent choices in selecting accomplished authors Ace Atkins and Mike Lupica to continue the highly enjoyable Spenser series. My mother loaned me her copy of The Godwulf Manuscript way back in 1973 and I immediately bought in to this witty educated ex-boxer, ex-cop, now tough as nails Boston PI. The most recent title, Showdown, is ripped from today’s current news—illegal immigrants, birthright citizenship, and those telling them to go home.

Spenser is asked by his sexy lawyer friend, Rita Fiore, to meet a young man, Daniel Lopez, who is about to enter Harvard Law School. He has a personal matter that Rita thinks Spenser can provide assistance. Daniel discovered documents among his recently deceased Hispanic mother’s possessions that local anti-immigrant podcaster Vic Hale was his father. Vic Hale, Boston’s answer to nationally known podcaster Joe Rogan, was in the conversation about who might be the next biggest—and potentially very wealthy. Rogan has millions of Spotify listeners who eat up his controversial commentary. Hale spews similar anti-immigrant and white nationalist commentary for a local broadcaster. Spenser, following considerable difficulty to get close to Hale finally meets with the podcaster who tells Spenser he is not Daniel’s father—a career crusher if the rumor became public—and for Spenser to tell Daniel to walk away, forget about him, and expect a big payout.

So begins a convoluted story of efforts to silence Daniel, a Miami investigative reporter after a big story, and others with knowledge of Daniel’s mother’s secret. Blending action, wit, snappy dialogue, and gifted storytelling Lupica keeps the Spenser character fresh and original. Surprisingly and disappointingly Spenser’s close friend and wingman, Hawk, plays just a minor role this time out. Spenser takes his usual step by step approach—on creaky knees—annoying Hale, his producer, their lawyer, the owner of Hale’s contract, local gangsters, a coffee magnate/media owner, and a few thugs. Each encounter Spenser experiences tightens the circle around Hale as Daniel’s father/not father conundrum brings us closer to the explosive conclusion. Showdown is a terrific addition to the Spenser series.

My thanks to Putnam and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review Showdown. It was time well spent.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with our good friend, Spenser (and company), for the 52nd time. This is Mike Lupica’s 3rd time at the helm writing Robert B. Parker’s most famous creation.

This is the first novel of Lupica’s Spenser that I have read. I listened to the audiobooks of the first two. Joe Mantegna always does a phenomenal job with reading the Spenser novels. I highly suggest you listen to them after reading the books.

I felt like the last novel, “Robert B. Parker’s Hot Property”, was the best Spenser novel after Mr. Parker’s death. So that had me champing at the bit to read this year’s release. “Showdown” isn’t as good but is still really good. Mike Lupica knows how to write a good novel. That’s just a fact. And, as a bonus, he knows the Robert B. Parker Universe and its vast array of colorful characters. He also adds a new one this time around, and I hope we keep Cassius around for the long haul.

I have my normal complaints about these novels. Mr. Parker did not use cusswords, and when he did, they were used sparingly. Mike Lupica likes to throw them in, thus changing the character’s nature and style. At least he doesn’t do it as often as he did when he wrote the Jesse Stone novels.

The only concern for this novel is it addresses a political hot button issue. Thus, it may alienate some long-time fans. For some, it is a more complicated issue than being as cut and dried as some would view it. Hopefully, readers will be able to just emerge themselves into the story and Spenser seeking justice for a young man.

From time to time, I see reviews that (fill in the blank author) does not write like Robert B. Parker. That’s true. No one writes like Robert B. Parker. To me, Mr. Parker, Lawrence Block, and James Scott Bell are the best at writing these types of mysteries. They just have a way of drawing you into a story and writing dialogue like no one else. Just sit back and enjoy that we still have Spenser and Hawk taking us on another adventure.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Peter Ackerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Mike Lupica once again proves himself a worthy steward of Robert B. Parker’s legacy, keeping the Spenser series alive and thriving. Lupica captures Parker’s voice with precision, understands the characters intimately, and strikes that delicate balance between the familiar traditions of the series and a touch of modernity that never breaks the spell.

In Robert B. Parker’s Showdown, Spenser is approached by a young Hispanic law student seeking his help in proving whether a rising, ultra-conservative podcaster might actually be his father. What begins as a personal quest quickly collides with a powerful circle of wealthy backers desperate to protect the podcaster’s lucrative new contract—and willing to silence anyone who could expose the truth.

Alongside the new characters essential to the mystery, longtime fans will be delighted to see familiar figures return—Hawk, Susan, and Tony Marcus, among others. I had nearly given up on the series until Lupica restored its footing, and this latest entry shows just how well he has done so.

Showdown works both as a sharp, hard-boiled mystery and as a quintessential Spenser novel. It’s also a strong entry point for new readers who want to start with the latest installment, while longtime fans—like me—will find it a satisfying continuation of a series that still has plenty of punch.
I received an advance reader’s copy of this book through NetGalley with the hopes that I would leave an honest review. I have endeavored to do so here.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robert Parker's fifty-three book Spenser series has featured one of my favorite fictional detectives--on a par with Elvis Cole. Spenser is witty and quick with an irreverent sense of humor that always makes me laugh. Combine that with plotting that is always fast and purposeful, there are few in this series I haven't devoured. In this one, Robert Parker's Showdown (G.P. Putnam 2025), by Mike Lupica because Robert Parker is no more, Spenser is asked to help a young man establish the paternity of an old friend of Spenser’s. Spenser might have passed on such a mundane case if it hadn't come through his lawyer friend, Rachel and if he didn't owe the man's would-be father a favor. Yes, the old friend is dead, but the balance sheet with the favor owed remains. That was a good start and I settled into my favorite reading chair expecting the usual clever, original repartee.

This time, not so much. By 25% of the way through, I'd been assaulted by so many triggers and dog whistles and tropes about the political darling of the day that the plot got lost in the never-ending hyperbole. I've praised Mike Lupica's rendition of Robert Parker's voice in the past. Two books I reviewed, I awarded 5/5. I said he was spot on with the voice. but this one seemed to lose some of the energy. The humor is a bit frayed with not enough originality which meant the effort to produce it slowed the pace. Still it’s a solid 4/5. If you are a Spenser fan, I'd love to hear what you think.

[Lisa Hemming · Rating 5 out of 5]

In “Showdown”, Mike Lupica has captured Spenser, Hawk and Susan, to the utmost degree of accuracy. I can picture them in my mind at the gym, out to dinner, walking Pearl, the wonder dog or working diligently on a case! Rita Fiore, in all her glory, plays an important role representing a young man who just wants to know the truth about his past. She turns to Spenser to help her unravel the drama and danger that has made its way to Boston. I couldn’t wait to begin reading because as a long time Spenser fan, I was more than ready to follow all of them through the streets of Boston, in their pursuit of justice.

Mr. Lupica brings Spenser further into the digital age by finally giving him an intern, a computer genius who can find anything and anyone, who impresses Spenser by using two screens at once! There are many moving parts to “Showdown’s” storyline, as well as help from characters we know and love, and discussions about and visits to Spenser’s favorite place, Fenway Park. Spenser is a man with an unstoppable work ethic who never stops until the bad guy is no longer a threat. He encountered more than one enemy in his new case, and I never know who would be out to get him next. I have said this before but I genuinely feel that Mr. Lupica has seamlessly stepped into the role left vacant by Robert B. Parker. He is a masterful storyteller who I hope will continue bringing us more of the Spenser that we know and love for years to come!!

[Joyce · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spenser is back in action, a little older, a little bit wiser. With Hawk and Susan by his side for advice and muscle if needed, he finds himself in the middle of a paternity case that is nothing like Jerry Springer when friend/lawyer Rita Fiore asks for his help.

Instead of throwing chairs, punches are being thrown, guns are being fired as someone wants to keep the true paternity under wraps. Be aware that politics and racism are a big theme in this edition that can be triggering for some but unfortunately is a reality we wish we didn't have to face in this day and age. The question is does the nice guy finish last or will justice truly be served.

i do have to say, that I had my sights set on a specific person as the father so was surprised on the final result and admit that I never guessed it.

I received a complimentary ARC thanks to NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest in the very long running series is as good and topical as they get. Daniel Lopez has just learned that controversial anti-immigrant podcaster Vic Hale is his father. His mother Maria was killed an ATM robbery and the recent college grad (bound for Harvard law) is looking for answers. Luckily one of his professors put him touch with Rita who of course enlisted Spencer. And then just as Spencer is debating what if anything he can do, a young journalist tracking Vic is also murdered. This is a fast paced run through long standing secrets and lies. It's also nicely complicated but as is always the case with Spencer novels, it's the characters who make it soar. Fans will be pleased to spend time with the group (and more time this outing with Cassius). And the food-Spencer eats every few pages. Lupica has picked up Parker's pen and run with it. He's kept the voices fans like steady and made underlying stories more complex. Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. Great read.

[Sue H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mike Lupica shows his versatility in writing with this 53rd novel in Robert Parker’s series featuring the much-loved, witty, able to handle any situation in the refined or criminal world of Boston/Cambridge, Private Eye named Spenser. Parker’s PhD in English from Boston University is evident in the impressive repartee between Spenser, his gun for hire sidekick-Hawk, and other story characters. Lupica is true to Parker’s plan for the series. In this novel, a conservative podcaster who is spewing anti-immigration venom is accused of being the father of an immigrant’s son. Spenser is hired to ferret out the truth. But as usual, the path to the truth is fraught with secrets, danger, and unexpected connections. Will Spenser be able to complete the job with a satisfactory outcome?

Thank you to NetGalley and G P Putnam for providing an ARC.

[Howard Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars
Showdown is an extremely interesting book with characters from previous novels that we have come to know and like. The story centers around the paternity of a 21 year old boy whose mother recently passed away and engages Spenser (through the attorney Rita Fiore) to determine the truth. The writing is spectacular with dialogue between all the characters as memorable as some of the prose —- “….looked strong enough to benchpress the Kennedy Library…….” or “….a back lawn that looked manicured enough to be a grass tennis court at Wimbledon…..”
I highly recommend this book to all who enjoy this genre and thank NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to its publication.

[Ken Karcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fantastic edition for the Spenser fan, we get to see all our favorites and a few new characters. Mike writes Spenser as close to Bob's as I could ever imagine, I don't know if it's the Boston connection or their shared love of Red Sox baseball and being a first-class smart-ass. Political crap and immigration protests aren't why I read Spenser novels but thankfully the non-preaching parts of the book were exceptional and reminded me of why I started reading these so many years ago. I am hopeful that the next book will be more entertaining and less political. I started and stopped reading this novel many times because I love this series and read it to relax not rehash the b.s. in our news.

[Scott Schubert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Putnam and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Robert B. Parker’s Showdown by Mike Lupica.

Overview: In this latest installment of the Parker-inspired series, Spenser and Hawk join forces to solve a case involving a wealthy industrialist, his exploitative practices, and a young woman desperate for justice. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, Spenser must navigate a dangerous power struggle while staying true to his moral code.

I’ve recently found myself getting more into this series and growing to love the characters more with each book. This one started off slower for me, but about halfway through I was back fully engaged and the ending delivered nicely. Lupica’s writing remains sharp and compelling, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.

[Martin Maenza · Rating 4 out of 5]

G.P. Putnam's Sons publishing provided an early galley for review.

This is the fifty-second book in the Spenser series, one that I became a fan of several decades back. I always enjoy revisiting my old friends in Boston for another thrilling adventure. There is a nice, familiar rhythm to the novels in this series, especially with the patter of the dialogue.

The story line this time is very topical and current, ripped from the socio-political headlines of the US in the past few years. It could, potentially, turn off some readers sadly due to the divide of where we are, but I appreciate that the author is willing to take a controversial swing regardless.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Mike Lupica says in his Acknowledgments, I am also thankful that David and Daniel Parker allow him to write this kind of work in a world their father first imagined. I have read all of Robert B. Parker's SPENCER books and love this one as much as the others. I say 53, but they say 51, whatever! I am glad Hawk was more in this book, along with Susan and now Cassius! Was not expecting the ending, and would not have imagined the killer being who the killer was. Love that kind of book! I am ready for the next Robert B. Parker book! I love Jesse Stone and am glad he was mentioned in this book!

[Bertha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well-written mystery with great Boston descriptions and characters who have long populated Spenser stories. However, if you were expecting Robert B. Parker’s style of writing, you will be disappointed. Additionally, if you were expecting Robert B. Parker’s Spenser, you will be disappointed. And if you don’t understand what I am saying, go back and read Robert B. Parker’s Spenser books. You will be glad you experienced his outstanding contributions to the genre.

All that being said, enjoy this book for what it is. Likely I won’t read others in the future. I enjoyed Parker’s writing style and wit too much to find satisfaction in reading a shadow of the master. RIP Bob Parker.

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #53 in the Spenser series of mystery/thrillers, first published in 1973 by Robert B Parker. The series has a large devoted fan club, to which I belong. Spenser is a private investigator in the Boston area who follows his own judgment when he's on the job. He's assisted by a large cast of unique characters who add their voices to his conscience and furiously protect him from the criminals he inevitably threatens. Mike Lupica has capably maintained the series. He provides readers with the Spenser and crew they have loved for over 50 years.

[Jack Cross · Rating 2 out of 5]

You have to know going in this not Robert B. Parker's Spenser.
This is Spenser-lite

Mr. Lupica is a fine writer, this is his third attempt at Spenser and for me it doesn't work very well.
Ace Atkins was closer to Parker's vision (with one terrible scene which ruined Little White Lies for me). Lupica should have stayed with Sunny which were well done

The Hawk/Spenser dynamic is off
Susan, dumbed down seems more of an after thought then part of the stories.

I hope they find another author to continue

[Ralph Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Spenser' was a great television show back in the day, and I have really enjoyed the whole book series. Lupica has done a great job of 'channeling Robert B. Parker's writing style and story-telling skill as he revisits the world of Spenser.

Not sure how much longer we can keep Spenser going along. Story-wise, he isn't getting much younger. There have been a couple spin-offs (Jesse Stone, and Sunny Randall), but when it comes down to Spenser, it will be a hard loss when the series does end.

[melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I appreciate the effort so 4 stars- but c’mon Mike, Susan doesn’t shop at Madewell.

She doesn’t keep the conversation so juvenile, either. The beauty of the physical aspects of their relationship was in the subtlety and classy elegance susan retained. The author is still better at contriving versions of the male characters. But it’s still nice to visit them again so thanks Mike.