Hush Money (1999)

Though this 26th entry in the Spenser mystery series is more intent on lampooning the politically correct halls of academia than on building suspense, it's easy to see why Parker's snappy banter and cynical eye have kept fans turning pages for 25 years. This time in Hush Money the boxing Boston PI must resist the sexual overtures of a beautiful stalker while he and Hawk, his muscle-bound sidekick, investigate a university faculty for whom homophobia, racism, and hypocrisy have become deadly debates. Spenser never seems to be in any real danger, but his wisecracks, combined with Parker's shorthand flair for scathing characterization, nevertheless make for a satisfying read. B+