Thomas finds himself drawn into a web of stolen snuff boxes and murder. At the center of his suspicions is Vincent LoPriore, otherwise known as the Birdman. LoPriore is a notorious collector who is known to offer outrageous prices to acquire what he wants, and will resort to strong-arming if necessary. Curtis also suspects LoPriore was having an affair with his wife in order to steal his snuff box collection, and, Hugh suspects, has killed his wife now that he has what he wants.

Thomas cooks up an elaborate scheme to get even with LoPriore, get Hugh's collection back, as well as make himself and other willing participants, a bit of pocket change (half a million dollars each). Thomas assembles a cast of most unlikely characters, from seventy-something doll expert, Edna, to Thomas's oft partner in crime, Broadway Schwartz. Among them, they orchestrate an elaborate scheme that they hope will shut LoPriore down for good, but they soon realize they are in for more than any of them bargained.

Scamming the Birdman is a fast, fun mystery with an outrageous plot and outrageous characters. Each player Thomas assembles is more eccentric than the one before, including a team of pickpockets, a man with an abnormal fear of germs. While Thomas is unbelievable as a true to life character, he easily fits into the circus-like atmosphere.

Much of the plot focuses on getting even with LoPriore, though there are a few things that are not as they seem and Larry Karp has one surprise for the readers at the very end that will catch most off guard. Scamming the Birdman is a quick, enjoyable read for those looking for something a little unusual and fun.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry