“Mystery,” by Jonathan Kellerman

FM's ratings:

          1. Premise 9
          2. Prose 10
          3. Plot 9
          4. Characters 10
          5. Overall 9

Comments (optional - but try to keep it under 3000 words!)

Another character-driven/dialog-driven detective jewel from Mr. Kellerman.  The series of confrontations between the investigators and their leads, which can get somewhat stale in a novel of this nature, is always kept interesting here with subtle twists and plot devices.  The result is a fascinating study in investigative technique.  It’s interesting to watch our protagonists bend the rules here and there to get where they need to be.  The final questioning whiffs of entrapment, but is mesmerizing to watch as Delaware goes solo in what could have been a dangerous situation.  It’s hard to see how some of the leads pursued by Sturgis and Delaware contribute anything to the solution of the mystery, but maybe a careful re-reading would reveal things one misses the first time.  Doesn’t matter.  I will simply move on to the next vastly entertaining masterpiece by this superb author!