Book Review: Dearly Departed

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Dearly Departed     Amazon US HC Amazon Canada HC
David Housewright
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Private Investigator
Series: Holland Taylor
Foul Play Press, 1999, $23.95, 281 pp.

Apparently, convicted rapist Raymond Fleck murdered Alison Emerton. However, the police have some doubts as they find no evidence to prove that foul play occurred. They begin to wonder if Alison simply left the Twin Cities area to start anew. Alison’s lawyer, Hunter Truman hires former homicide cop turned private investigator Holland Taylor to learn the truth about his client.

Holland’s inquiries lead him to a gambling casino debate in Northern Wisconsin. He also finds several individuals who would relish the death of Alison. As he steps closer to the truth, assailants threaten his life. Someone knows that the truth is out there and they will do anything to insure Holland never finds it.

As with PENANCE and PRACTICE TO DECEIVE, Holland remains a fabulous detective whose insolent running narrative spices up DEARLY DEPARTED. The story line engages the reader when it focuses on the lead protagonist’s investigation into the life of Alison. However, moral preaching on drugs and the casino business, leads to disjointed moments that occasionally overwhelm the jocularity that Holland provides the audience. Still, David Housewright continues to provide readers with an entertaining lighthearted series that deserves fan attention.

Harriet Klausner

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