Valediction Author:Robert B. Parker A Spencer for Hire novel. Spenser is hired to find a young woman who may or may not have been kidnapped by "Bullies," members of a fanatic religious sect. Paul Giacomin, his surrogate son, has brought the case to Spenser. And none too soon - for Susan Silverman's departure to San Francisco has left Spenser at loose ends in Boston. As he struggle... more »s to separate illusion from reality Spenser's capacity for ironic commitment is tested as never before by a church militant, a heroin ring, and his deepening estrangement from the woman he loves. Valediction is Spenser's journey into the heart of darkness. There, only his friends, his courage, wit, and unique fair in humanity can sustain him until all the truths are told.« less