Sandra wrote to me with this very sad news about Robert B. Parker:
“FYI: Robert B. Parker, one of my top 5 all time favorite authors passed away suddenly while sitting at his desk in Cambridge, Mass on Jan. 18th. He was 77 yrs old and it was reported this A.M. that the cause of death was heart attack.
While not “cozy”, Mr. Parker wrote over 50 books mostly in the Jesse Stone (tv shows starred Tom Selleck) and Spenser private detective very long series which were the basis for the 1980’s tv series, Spenser for Hire. A less known fact is that a smaller book series “Sunny Randall” was created for actress Helen Hunt(at her request) to star in but the shows never materialized but Parker continued to write the book series.
The latest Spenser novel was just released, The Professional, top 10 on the NY Times list now. I just today finished this book and wow, it was as good as any of the others that I have enjoyed.
His last Jesse Stone novel will be released 2/23/10, Split Image. He completed this but alas never got to see it published.
If you go to his website, www.robertbparker.net you can find so much info and good interviews but an added little treasure is in the “press room” button where you can listen to “Moon River” as sung by Robert B. Parker and his son Dan Parker.
Danna, if you could post news on Mr. Parker’s death, I am sure others would like to know and comment. Thank you, Sandra”
I know that he will be missed by many!
Laura says
Robert Parker was one of my favorite mystery writers. I was so sad to learn of his death. I’ve read all of his books, and especially loved the Spenser series.
Anne says
He was my late husband’s favorite author. He will be missed.
Ian says
Very sad news. I just starting reading the Spenser and Stone novels last year and it is sad to think that the development of these characters has come to an end. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. RIP.
Daniel says
Hi:
Very sad to read about the passing of Mr. Parker. I Love Tom Selleck movies and when I bought Death In Paradise starring Tom Selleck, I enjoyed every moment of the movie. So I bought 2 more, Stone Cold and Night Passage. Excellent movies. I am going to buy the other 5 cd’s. Are there anymore Jesse Stone’s that will be made into movies?
Thank you,
Daniel
Danna - cozy mystery list says
Daniel, I’m sorry but I don’t know if any more Jesse Stone movies will be produced. I certainly hope so.
Jersey Girl says
I love Robert Parker’s movies for Jesse Stone. I have all 8 of Jesse Stone DVD Movies. The last one was really awesome. I too, was hoping for a follow up movie from “Benefit of the Doubt”. Books are great too. Does anyone know if there is a book that is after Benefit of Doubt.
I was so saddened to hear of his death, such an inspiring person. Love Tom Selleck too. Robert Parker is still out there though with his many books….