Book Review: Before I Say Good-bye

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Before I Say Good-bye     Amazon US PB Amazon US TPB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada TPB Amazon Canada HC
Mary Higgins Clark
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Psychological Suspense   Amateur Sleuth   Political Intrigue
Simon & Schuster, Apr 2000, 332 pp.

Former Congressman Cornelius “Mac” MacDermott asks his granddaughter Nell Cauliff to run for his old seat in the House. Two years ago she rejected his request because her spouse objected to her becoming Mac’s legislative puppet. However, this time Nell decides she wants to run for the public office as politics is in her blood.

The next day she informs her husband, architect Adam Cauliff, about her plans. He becomes irate and they have a serious argument before he leaves for a meeting on his cruiser. An explosion occurs on the ship apparently killing Adam, several business associates and employees. Nell is left feeling guilty and ashamed of herself. The police believe the explosion was deliberate.

When rumors abound that Adam was on the take, Nell decides to investigate the accident to prove her spouse’s innocence, which means one of the other guests was the intended victim. She also follows Adam’s instructions from the grave thorough a medium while a killer looks on, wondering if Nell needs to be eliminated.

Known for her suspenseful bestsellers, Mary Higgins Clark writes an intriguing tale that combines elements of a thriller with that of an amateur sleuth mystery. The story line is fun and exciting, especially when Nell begins her inquiries. Nell is a wonderful character and her grandfather comes across as a powerful individual. The support cast is developed to the point where the reader understands their flaws. Ms. Clark provides her myriad of fans with another enthralling tale filled with action and adventure exciting tale.

Harriet Klausner

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