Book Review: Tulsa Time

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Tulsa Time     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Letha Albright
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Woman Main Character   Amateur Sleuth   Thriller
Series: Viv Powers # 1
Oak Tree, Jul 2000, $7.95, 250pp

Vinita, Oklahoma reporter Vivian Powers has just come home from an all night vigil accompanying the police on a manhunt for a viscous, deadly escaped psychopath. However, instead of the comfort of her bed, Vivian learns that the Tulsa police arrested her lover, musician Charlie Pack for the killing of music producer Gil Martin, the husband of Charlie’s ex-wife Mica.

Viv cannot believe that Charlie would kill Gil even though band members saw the shoving match between the two men just prior to the murder. Viv reflects that the divorce with Mica was amiable and Charlie and Gil were more than just business associates; they were friends. She begins to investigate what happened even while Charlie refuses to talk, let alone defend himself. As the evidence piles up proving beyond a shadow of doubt Charlie committed the crime, Viv continues her inquiries because she still cannot accept her boy friend is a killer.

Though readers will infer who did not kill Gil because of the constant build up of proof otherwise, the audience will fully enjoy the first Powers tale. The story line is exciting, fast-paced, and Viv’s relentless inquiries fun to observe, even as she adds evidence to the other side. Viv is a great sleuth whose reporting skills makes her more professional than amateur. The secondary cast including Charlie is not quite as fully developed as Viv, but brings a taste of Oklahoma to the table. Letha Albright proves it is TULSA TIME for fans who enjoy an obstinate female “detective” trying to prove the impossible.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner