The GLBTRT has been reviewing books and movies in its newsletter since the early 1990s. Trace the evolution of queer publishing through these historic reviews. This review was originally published in Vol. 3, No 3, Fall 1991.Â
Amateur detective C.C. Scott, a semi-retired therapist and avid bird-watcher, successfully uncovers the murderous past of do-gooder Jeffrey Randall in this “quick read”. The suave Jeffrey has indeed murdered several wealthy, elderly women after they’ve made his charitable organization their major heir, C.C. discovers. She prevents the same fate from befalling her neighbor and friend, Kathryn, a recent widow.
C.C.’s relationship with her lover Barbara, and their life in a small California town on the edge of suburban sprawl, is well portrayed. But the plot lacks suspense, given that Jeffrey is the only logical suspect. Furthermore, a cost of $9.95 for this 189-page paperback may deter many libraries and bookstore browsers from purchasing it. Still Plante’s novel will appeal to lesbians and gays and to readers hooked on the amateur sleuth genre. Recommended for public libraries with large mystery/detective collections.
Reviewed by Joseph M. Eagan
Enoch Pratt Free Library
Baltimore, Maryland
