Fatal Deduction

Gayle Roper’s latest novel, Fatal Deduction, has something for everyone. There is plenty of danger, suspense, a budding romance and even crossword puzzles!

When the main character, Libby Burton, finds a dead man on her doorstep, she doesn’t know who the man is or why he has been dumped there. Her only clue is a crossword puzzle found on the body and addressed to Libby’s twin sister, Tori. The puzzle is clearly a message, but Libby has no idea what it could be.

Libby doesn’t trust Tori. The two have little in common, but they have been forced to share their Aunt Stella’s house for six months in order to receive their inheritance. Libby is hoping to grow closer to her twin, but it isn’t looking good.

Roper weaves her story skillfully. She is a seasoned writer and that is evident here. The relationships between her characters are full of mixed emotions, as are most relationships in real life. Like most of us, everyone in this novel has complicated baggage from their past. They all have secrets, and Roper reveals them slowly, bringing us to know her characters well.

The novel touches on several complex subjects, such as mental illness, family dysfunction, religion and abortion, and Roper handles them insightfully. Her characters have very strong views on these issues, but the author manages to convey them without preaching.

While the writing could have been a little tighter, the story moves along at a fairly brisk pace. For those who like a little romance thrown in with their mysteries, this is a perfect combination.

Copyright 2010 Marlene Pyle

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION

I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content.  I was not expected to return this item after my review.