Bernie Rhodenbarr runs a secondhand bookshop but makes his money as a burglar. When he and his partner-in-crime, pet groomer Carolyn, steal a rare coin of incredible value, they pass it on to their fence, a friend who shares with Bernie an interest in Spinoza. But then a body is found in the house they just burgled...

A taut, fast-paced mystery, The Burglar Who Studied Spinoza has plenty of plot twists and action, a comfortable first-person narrative voice, appealing characters, and a distinctive New York setting. I found it compelling entertainment and will be keeping an eye out for Block's other novels featuring Bernie Rhodenbarr.

April 2010

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