Mark,
I was speaking in terms of quality-divided-by-output. Parker
wrote more books at a faster pace, with each plot up to
VALEDICTION developing Spenser as a character and telling his
larger story. By CATSKILL, Parker ran out of real story
(namely his commitment to and separation from his wife) and
crossed into superhero thriller territory (Spenser's literal
rescue of Susan from her overprotective lover). IMO, Chandler
ran out of story with THE LITTLE SISTER and PLAYBACK.
I could also say that Parker surpasses Chandler in writing a
more accessible, better-rounded character, but I think better
rounded characters are a function of time.
Gerald
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