From Publishers Weekly
When London textile conservationist Zoe Templeman discovers her boss's body hanging from a rafter in his studio, it's just the beginning of what will prove to be a nightmare of murder and personal tragedy in this flawless page-turner from British veteran Armstrong (Beyond the Pale). Well-respected by other antiques dealers and customers alike, Max Loudon-Fryer seems an unlikely suicide candidate. A blood-stained hammer that turns up in the victim's car appears to be the first important clue to the crime. Zoe's natural curiosity and genuine human warmth lead her to uncover the secrets of a number of people, including Max's gorgeous Pakistani housekeeper, Saba, and her four-year-old son; Max's estranged wife, Desiree; and even the love of Zoe's own life, renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Haydon Masure. After more than one impeccable reputation shatters in the course of the investigation, Zoe flees to Paris to deliver a valuable restored tapestry to its owner, and there all the pieces come together in a heart-wrenching conclusion. As skilled at plot weaving as her heroine is at restoring antique tapestries, Armstrong combines credible secondary characters, vivid settings (notably cold and rainy London in autumn), subtle hints and misdirections into a seamless whole certain to appeal to a broad range of mystery fans.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Imagine London art restorer Zoe Templeman's shock when she discovers the body of her employer, Max Loudon-Fryer, hanging from a self-fashioned noose in his studio. Max seemed like the last person who would kill himself, but a police investigation reveals that he was in financial hot water. Max's death is only the beginning of her troubles: her workshop is destroyed in a flood, the police keep pestering her, and she's saddled with Max's now-homeless housekeeper and his cold-hearted wife. Her boyfriend, cosmetic surgeon Haydon Masure, begins to act strangely, and Zoe learns that Haydon has lied to her on several occasions. Then the caretaker at Haydon's country home is savagely murdered, and soon after, Haydon is killed by intruders. Will Zoe be next? Escaping to Paris, she begins to piece together the whole sordid truth. With its inventive (albeit occasionally overcomplicated) plot, jaunty heroine, and happy ending, this makes entertaining reading for those who prefer Thriller Lite.
Emily MeltonCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved
