Madmans Diary [Paperback]

Still haunted by the suicide of a former lover and the disappearance of another, 34-year-old interior designer and architect Judy Sussman is struck especially hard by the news of a beloved colleague's murder. While Judy's live-in "soul mate," Skeet, offers emotional support, her neighbor, professional sleuth and mystery novelist Annie Chestnut, examines the case. The dumpy private investigator provides a good measure of noxious Southern humor, but her investigative skills are irreproachable. Through her snooping, Annie uncovers bizarre evidence (such as stolen underwear, a used toothbrush and an altar) that seems to incriminate Judy's gorgeous gardener. When a young waiter who'd openly admired Judy mysteriously overdoses on an obscure poisonous substance, Judy becomes concerned that her new fianc may be targeted next. Racina (Secret Weekend) firmly establishes the killer's interest in Native American lore and the history of the California desert lands, but the cryptic and ultimately misleading diary entries he intersperses throughout are distracting and interrupt the narrative's fast-paced momentum. Although readers will enjoy Racina's crisp dialogue and quirky characters, the "madman's" incessant ramblings and obsessions will prove tiresome. (Apr. 10)
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

A fast-paced thriller...a smart read. -- San Francisco Examiner

Chilling suspense. -- Judith Gould

Harrowing. -- Romantic Times