'Prey' spinoff character confronts crime with playful sense of humor (2024)

''Shock Wave," by John Sandford ( Putnam, 388 pages, $27.95).

DAYTON, Ohio -- In 1989, John Sandford published "Rules of Prey," the first novel in his hugely successful "Prey" crime series. There's a "Prey" book every year like clockwork. He has missed only the one year, 1997.

In 2007, he published "Invisible Prey" in which he introduced a secondary character, Virgil Flowers. Virgil assists Lucas Davenport, the protagonist of the "Prey" series. They work for the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Investigation.

Each "Prey" book comes out in the spring. In the fall of 2007, Sandford started a standalone series featuring Virgil Flowers. The fifth Virgil novel, "Shock Wave," just came out. Sandford's fans now get new "Prey" books in the spring and Virgil books in autumn.

Virgil works southern Minnesota. As "Shock Wave" begins, a bomb is about to explode in the boardroom of the Pye Pinnacle building in Michigan. This is the corporate headquarters of the PyeMart Corporation, a fictitious company somewhat like Walmart.

PyeMart is opening new stores and is building one in the southern Minnesota town of Butternut Falls. Soon, another bomb is detonated at the construction site. There are fatalities. Federal agencies are brought in to investigate. And Virgil is summoned to the crime scene.

Sandford admits that he gets input for the Virgil Flowers books from his golfing buddy David Cronk. There are distinct differences between each series. The "Prey" series can be quite dark and humorless. Then there's Virgil; even in the midst of a serious homicide investigation, he can still be rather playful. He rarely seems to lose his sense of humor.

Virgil is a true Minnesotan, he loves to fish. He heads to Butternut Falls towing his fishing boat. Perhaps he could check out the local lakes?

As he dives into this case, he wonders if the bombings in Michigan and in Butternut Falls are connected, and if so, how?

The first bomb went off at the top of a seemingly inaccessible office building. There were security cameras that should have recorded the perpetrator. Whoever placed the explosives was able to elude detection. The cameras failed to capture any images of the bomber.

In Butternut Falls, Virgil finds a unique way to gather the names of potential suspects. He mails out a confidential survey to some area residents and asks them to compile lists of any fellow residents who they think could have had motives for bombing the PyeMart.

In classic Sandford fashion, readers are also treated to the mysterious bomber's viewpoint as this drama unfolds. "Shock Wave" is populated with a cast of eccentrics: disgruntled fishermen, corrupt politicians, jaded investigators, philandering spouses and the billionaire owner of PyeMart, who pays someone to record every word he speaks.

We expect Virgil to solve the case. He'll crack jokes. He might lose his beloved fishing boat, but he seldom loses his sense of humor -- or his goofy wardrobe.

'Prey' spinoff character confronts crime with playful sense of humor (2024)

FAQs

What is CEFR level A1? ›

English level A1 is the first level of English in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a definition of different language levels written by the Council of Europe. In everyday speech, this level would be called “beginner”, and indeed, that is the official level descriptor in the CEFR, also used by EF SET.

What is CEFR level English? ›

The CEFR organises language proficiency in six levels, A1 to C2, which can be regrouped into three broad levels: Basic User, Independent User and Proficient User, and that can be further subdivided according to the needs of the local context. The levels are defined through 'can-do' descriptors.

What is Cefr PDF? ›

COMMON EUROPEAN FRAMEWORK OF REFERENCE FOR LANGUAGES: LEARNING, TEACHING, ASSESSMENT.

Is C1 English good? ›

Level C1 corresponds to proficient users of the language, i.e. those able to perform complex tasks related to work and study.

Is English B1 level good? ›

SKILLS AT LEVEL B1

Is able to understand the main points of clear texts in standard language if they are about topics with which they are familiar, whether in work, study or leisure contexts. Can cope with most of the situations that might arise on a trip to areas where the language is used.

Is B2 English level fluent? ›

Level B2 corresponds to independent users of the language, i.e. those who have the necessary fluency to communicate without effort with native speakers.

How can I get C1 level in English? ›

You can certify your C1 level of English by taking the Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or the C1 Advanced. You can also choose the C1 Business Higher, the IELTS, the TOEIC, the TOEFL, or the Aptis, among others.

Is B2 English level good? ›

Level B2 corresponds to a more advanced, more independent level than previous levels. A B2 user can communicate easily and spontaneously in a clear and detailed manner. This is not yet an experienced speaker, but a B2 user is able to understand and be understood in most situations.

What is A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2? ›

The three broad levels are A1/A2 ("Basic User"), B1/B2 ("Independent User"), and C1/C2 ("Proficient User"). Let's take a look at what you should be able to communicate at the various levels set out by CERF. Language learning levels explained from A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 to C2.

Is CEFR like IELTS? ›

CEFR is also used for other language tests throughout Europe and not only for IELTS. It is used for the conversion of scores in TOEFL as well. Thus CEFR exam or CEFR levels bypass terms such as intermediate, beginner, or even advanced which are not accurate indicators of proficiency in a language.

Is CEFR C1 fluent? ›

CEFR-level C1 (advanced)

You can express yourself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. You can use language flexibly and effectively for social and professional purposes.

Is the C1 exam hard? ›

The answer is yes! You will need to work a lot harder and be serious about your preparation for the C1 Advanced exam. While the B2 First shows you have a good grounding in English, the C1 Advanced is closer to the level of a native speaker.

Is C1 fluent or advanced? ›

C1 is an advanced English level. C1 users can speak English with ease, and understand the language in (almost!) all of its complexity.

Is C2 considered fluent? ›

English test C2 (Proficiency)

Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.

What age is A2 level? ›

The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
CEFR levelCambridge English examSecondary Young (age 11-13)
B2Upper-Intermediate
B1PET for SchoolsIntermediate
A2FlyersPre-Intermediate
Movers
6 more rows

Is A2 level English good? ›

An A2 level of English is sufficient for tourism in an English-speaking country and socializing with English speakers, although to develop deeper friendships an A2 level is not adequate.

Is it easy to pass B1 test? ›

Passing the B1 writing exam is not an easy task. You need advanced preparations to successfully complete this English test. Languages are the most complex subjects. You need lots of patience and practice to learn a new language.

Can you get C1 on B2? ›

B2 First – Level C1

If you achieve a scale score of 180–190 (grade A) in your exam, you will receive the First Certificate in English stating that you demonstrated ability at Level C1.

What language level is fluent? ›

Level B2: Basic Fluency

Reaching B2 is generally considered by most people as having basic fluency. You'll have a working vocabulary of around 4000 words.

Is C2 the highest level of English? ›

C2 Proficiency, formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), is one of our Cambridge English Qualifications. It is our highest-level qualification – proof that you are a highly competent speaker of English. A C2 Proficiency qualification shows the world that you have mastered English to an exceptional level.

Are native speakers C1? ›

The highest level on the CEFR scale is C1, which is close to the level of English proficiency of native speakers.

Is C1 higher than C2? ›

C1 Advanced Scale Scores

The examination also provides reliable assessment at the level above C1 (Level C2) and the level below (Level B2).

How long does it take to improve English from B2 to C1? ›

A higher level of fluency – top B2 (upper intermediate) into C1 (advanced/operational proficiency) (ILR 2+ to 3+) is said to take 550 to 900 hours.

Is IELTS 6.5 B2 or C1? ›

The score 6.5 is borderline B2/C1. The real-world level of performance represented by the result has not changed.

How can I improve my English from B2 to C1? ›

Sign up for a C1 English course. Read a lot of books as they are an excellent resource when it comes to learning new terms and expressions. Commit to writing formal documents and not just text messages and emails. Runs meetings in English as a means to gain fluency and to use idioms that you have learned.

How long does it take to become B2 in English? ›

To get from A1 to A2, it typically requires 100-150 hours of guided learning, but it can take 180-260 hours to get from B1 to B2.

Is there a A0 English level? ›

A0/A1 English (Beginner/Elementary)

Level A0/A1 corresponds to basic users of English who can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases.

Is B2 better than A1? ›

The LG B2 OLED has more features than the LG A1 OLED, so if you're a gamer and need HDMI 2.1 bandwidth and VRR support, the B2 is the better choice.

Is B1 better than B2? ›

The LG B2 OLED is an upgrade from its predecessor, the LG B1 OLED. The main difference is that the B2 gets brighter, so its overall picture quality is superior; this makes it a better choice for well-lit rooms.

Is IELTS 8.5 good? ›

Getting an 8.5 in IELTS distinguishes you from the others as someone between a very good user of the language and an expert. In addition to this, an 8.5 band score opens the golden gate to several highly esteemed universities in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

Is 7.5 IELTS score good? ›

Ans. Yes. A 7.5 IELTS score is an extremely good score to get selected in the university of your choice. However, do check for other requirements too.

Is 4.5 A good score in IELTS? ›

An IELTS band 4.5 is between an IELTS band 4 and a band 5. At an IELTS band 4, you have a very basic understanding of English and you are more comfortable communicating in familiar situations. It is difficult to use complex language. Then, at an IELTS band 5, you have a limited command of the language.

How can I get my C2 level in English? ›

You can get a C2 English certificate by taking the C2 Proficiency (CPE) or Linguaskill. You can also choose to take the IELTS, the TOEIC, the TOEFL, or the Aptis, among others.

What is B2+ English level? ›

Upper-intermediate level B2-B2+

You learn to understand the main ideas of complex speech on concrete and abstract topics. You learn to interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. You learn to produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects.

What level is A2 in Italian? ›

A2 Level - INTERMEDI

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has.

Is A1 a good language level? ›

Otherwise known as a “super-beginner”, at A1 level English you have very limited knowledge of the language. However, you will still be able to manage everyday situations with commonly-used expressions and vocabulary (as long as the situation is familiar).

How many words is a CEFR A1? ›

Level A1: Super Beginner

When you reach the A1 level, you will have a rough working vocabulary of about 700 words.

What is A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 in writing? ›

There are six levels (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) on the CEFR, with A1 as the lowest level. Write & Improve offers free writing practice covering all levels including beginner (A1, A2), intermediate (B1, B2) and advanced (C1, C2).

Can duolingo get you to B2? ›

At Duolingo, we're developing our courses to get you to a level called B2, at which you can get a job in the language you're studying. Reaching that kind of proficiency requires dedication, varied practice opportunities, and a lot of time.

Is A1 level French? ›

A1 – Basic User

Can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where he/she lives, people he/she knows and things he/she has.

Is Cambridge C1 fluent? ›

A C1 Advanced qualification shows that you can:

express yourself with a high level of fluency.

Is GCSE language A2? ›

Most universities measure language level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for languages (CEFR).
...
Required language level.
"> CEFR levelFLTU moduleApproximate equivalence
A1Beginner
A2ElementaryGCSE A* - C
B1Lower IntermediateAS Level A* - C
3 more rows

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