First edition fine

The author writes reality fiction concerning white collar commercial crimes prosecuted by an indefatigable public prosecutor. This book builds suspense around financial crimes, personal political issues, and murder of witnesses. Provides examples of dialogue between attorneys, and their rich clients, who are familiar with "hard ball" tactics and intimidation. The author adds gratuitous drinking and sex tension, making for a sweet read.

William Lasko is a dominating man-- he fills the rooms he is in, with himself. He steals from people and is rich and influential, trying to get richer and more influential at the expense of everyone else. He has corrupted local, State, and Federal officials. Now the Economic Crimes Commission turns to U.S. Attorney Christopher Paget to investigate one of his deals which turns out to be so much more.

The author's first published mystery, over 30 years ago. One can compare his expertise with his more recent books. ( )

Having read Degree of Guilt a few years ago, it was interesting to read a bit about Paget's earlier life. But this in no way really connected the two stories together. The premise was not far fetched, but the way it played out was. ( )

3262. The Lasko Tangent, by Richard North Patterson (read Oct 30, 1999) I have never read anything by Patterson before and thought I would. This is his first book, and it is attention-holding, tho the writing is not subtle. And I object to the central character's amoral attitudes. But I found myself looking forward to reading this as the book proceeded, and maybe future books of his get better. This book was in 1979, and I would hope he would get better as he matured. ( )