Book Review: Caught in the Act

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Caught in the Act     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Joyce Lamb
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Romance   Romantic Suspense
Five Star, Aug 2003, $26.95,

Jessie Rhoades relocated to Florida to escape a bad marriage and to further her career as the city editor of the Fort Myers Star News. Her top journalist reports on cops frequenting local strip joints while on duty. However, word is that the story is a hoax and careers could be ruined.

Jessie is driving when her brakes fail leading to a crash. She is rescued by freelance reporter Clay Christopher who then rushes her to the hospital. Not long afterward, New York based editor Steve Crank asks Clay to investigate the police scandal and possible hoax. Pretty much retired since his beloved Ellen died, Clay makes some cursory inquiries, but soon finds Jessie has given him a reason to live just as he has revived her personal life. However, someone wants her dead as evident by her sliced brake line.

Though in some ways the villain is obvious even with clever disguising by Joyce Lamb, this is a strong investigative romantic mystery. The entertaining story line provides the reader with two levels of tension. Will Jessie and Clay overcome their respective past relationships to become an entity with her as his professional boss even as the audience will wonder if the heroine will survive the assaults on her life? Readers will appreciate this deep tale rooting for the lead couple to make it.

Harriet Klausner

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