Suspicion of Guilt (Paperback)

Good book to read on a trip.

An old school friend and former lover brings a potentially lucrative case to Gail involving a forged will. If Gail wins the case her partnership in the upscale firm is assured. After an investigation into the death of the deceased, whose will is being disputed, it is determined that she was murdered. The cause of death had previously been called an accident. Gail's client is the prime suspect in his aunt's murder, and she persuades her lover, Anthony Quintana, to take the case. Against Anthony's advice, Gail is soon investigating both the forgery and the murder, and risking her life, career and relationship with Anthony to do so. When another "accident" occurs and a potential witness is silenced, the story's pace really picks up and it becomes apparent that there is more than one murder and one person's greed behind these crimes.

Barbara Parker writes tight, taut prose, her dialogue is snappy and realistic and her scenes involving opposing lawyers, and boardroom scenes are tension-filled. Her characters are well defined and very believable, especially Gail Connor. Ms. Connor is not always likable. She is often stressed, as we all would be if faced with a failed marriage, a young daughter who is miserable with the sudden changes in her life, a demanding career that doesn't allow for time to cope with family problems, a man who loves her but is as strong-willed and stubborn as she is, and a criminal investigation that becomes more complex everyday. She is frequently snappish, disagreeable, and not there for her child. Gail has many positive traits also, but what is so different and refreshing is that the author gives her heroine human frailties. One does not always have to like her for the novel to succeed. In fact, one of the reasons the plot is so successful is because the story and characters are so lifelike, as are the relationships. The characters grow and are, at times, transformed by what they learn.

There are roller coaster twists and turns in this tale of career white collar criminals, financial misdeeds, politics and multiple murders. This is a series so filled with complex characters and relationships that you will want to read more about them and their continuing development. I can't wait for Ms. Parker's next book. A compelling read!!
JANA

Most of the secondary characters were likable - I found it hard to believe they cared so much about Gail.

I'd recommend any of Robert Parker's books over this - his characters are honest, intelligent and clever, and the relationships are believable.