I agree Bill, with the exception that I favor his first one because it is the book that permanently hooked me on Parkers... but "Shooting Flying" certainly is the culmination of his Parker research.

And with that last book, we will all remember Ed's 'famous' words... "Further, EDM sayeth naught."

RIP EDM

Since a past version of myself is actually the narrator of the novel, everybody should read it. Christmas is coming.....

Destry Hoffard

Ed's books are great, but they are very Parker centric. Like the lawyer that he was, Ed presented the facts that supported his case, and ignored all facts to the contrary.

Well that fits with me, as I am looking for parker centric reading. Dave, I am guessing you are referring to assertions that Parker was superior to other guns in various ways?

I mean I know Parkers are the best sxs's ever made, the facts just don't always see eye to eye with me on that. As such the facts are obviously in error :)

I'd say the first book only because I met EDM when he was in the small town of Leesburg Va many years ago at a local gunshop that also specialized in collectable sporting books. Ed was there talking to the proprietary around a small table and I was in the back looking over a quite nice collection of English Doubles. Multiple copies of EDM's book were laying in the back. I had picked up the book and was ready about the author on the dust cover complete with a picture of EDM and realized that same fellow was currently in the store. :)

I picked up a copy and decided to purchase it. Went to the front and EDM looked up from the coffee table and remarked "good book" and asked me if he wanted him to inscribe it and of course I said yes. Anyway, was a brief exchange but I still remember it quite clearly and of course still have the book.

Funny, Ed asked me that same question when one of his books was being released. For reasons only Ed and I know, I said I would rather have the unsigned version.

Because the signed / deluxe version was more expensive?

I bought one of Ed's books at a pgca banquet several years ago. He signed it to me and I enjoyed talking with him.