Martha, as far as Bootsie...all I can tell you is to keep reading. You did not mess up the order. However, I don't recall instances of your statement "From the more recent past, a recurring character is always a troubled woman whom Dave bedded at least once." Not saying it isn't true...I just don't recall it.
You still have several to go: Crusader's Cross, Pegasus Descending, The Tin Roof Blowdown, and the latest, Swan Peak. Another is due out next year, I believe. And as far as I'm concerned they get better and better.
I'm really glad you are enjoying the Dave Robicheaux books. We have been reading them since the beginning -- he is like a member of our family. Two years ago, my son and I searched out some of the places frequently mentioned in the books around New Iberia. It was a lot of fun. We think he is one of the best -- if not the best -- contemporary writers working today.
BTW, there is a forum at jamesleeburke.com. Burke himself pops in quite frequently to answer questions and chat.
EmmaG
