Book Review: The Loser's Club

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Loser's Club     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
Lise S. Baker
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Private Investigator
St. Martin’s, Apr 2000, $22.95, 288 pp.

One evening, Cal Brantley’s husband went out for a pack of cigarettes and never returned. Her second entry in the romantic sweepstakes was with a co-worker, but when that ended Cal left her job and ultimately the state. Now back in her hometown of San Francisco, Cal buries herself in her work as she is determined to never be hurt by a male again. After successfully completing her current field assignment, the private investigator returns to the home office only to learn that the company has been sold. The new owners, Worldwide Corporation, send Cal to Reno to investigate an insurance claim.

Accompanying Cal to Nevada is company man Denny Wickerstaff, an arrogant former LA cop, who worships power especially his own. Cal realizes she is going to have a difficult time working with the conceited Denny. Their inquiries center on the death of a child who died on a casino escalator. As she examines the data, Cal concludes that there is more to this simple claim than meets the eye and refuses to close the case. Her action place her and Denny in danger from dangerous people who will face long hard time in prison if their operation becomes known.

With the publication of THE LOSER’S CLUB, it is obvious that Lise S. Baker deserved to win the 1998 SMP/PWA contest. The story line provides a series of viable shockers and surprises that make it impossible to predict what will happen next. There are so many twists and turns readers will think they are on a tilt-a-whirl. However, it is Cal who makes the novel complete as mystery fans will fully understand her motives and want Ms. Baker to provide sequels starring her likable lead protagonist.

Harriet Klausner

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