Cinnamon Skin by John D. MacDonald (1982, Hardcover)

John D. MacDonald was one of our greatest writers of American popular fiction. This book is part of his "Travis McGee" series, about an endearing "boat bum" who recovers lost things for people, unofficially and with no license or official credentials. This particular story is particularly affecting, with a flight by Travis and his sidekick, the quiet but brilliant economist Meyer (who lives on another houseboat near Travis' in the Florida Keys), traveling to Mexico to look into the death of a comrade. They meet a fascinating woman there and other aspects of the mystery reveal themselves in a satisfying and engaging way. Can't say enough about how great a writer John D. was and is, and a first edition of one of his somewhat later works is a proud addition to my collection.