Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner
![[4.5 stars]](../images/spots/1_splat_45.gif)
The Pearl Harbor Murders
Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Max Allan Collins
Class/Genre: Mystery Historical
Series: Historicals # 3
Berkley Prime Crime, May 2001, $6.99, 272 pp.
On December 5, 1941, most Americans living on Hawaii knows that war with Japan is imminent, but they feel the islands are safe from an external attack. Most of the residences are more concerned with the loyalties of the local Japanese-American population, which is a third of the island and are afraid they will sabotage things on the islands.
Edgar Rice Burroughs and his adult son Hully enjoy their time together on Oahu. Ed agrees to arrange a meeting between Amerasian singer Pearl Harada and Army Intelligence Chief, Colonel Kendell Fielder. Pearl needs to persuade Kendell that she loves his son and wants his blessing for them to marry. The next morning, a scream awakens Ed who runs outside to see the corpse of Pearl. Unable to resist investigating her death, Ed begins making inquiries. He wonders if one of Pearl's string of ex-lovers killed her, Bill's outraged dad murdered her, or as the evidence begins to mount someone silenced her because she learned something about the event that is to occur the very next day?
Max Allan Collins is known for his award winning historical mysteries, especially those starring a famous author during a real life disaster. The current author-driven tale, THE PEARL HARBOR MURDERS, is an absolutely excellent blending of history and fiction into a powerful tale. Mr. Collins paints a picture of the islands just before and during the Japanese air attack while also providing a close look at the legendary writer. One day, a future author will star Mr. Collins solving a mystery while writing one of his fabulous novels for he has earned it with his achievements.
Harriet Klausner
Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner
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