Book Review: The James Dean Affair

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The James Dean Affair     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Robert S. Levinson
Class/Genre:   Mystery
Series: Neil Gulliver and Stevie Marriner
Forge, Aug 2000, $24.95, 320 pp.

Every Hollywood insider including columnist Neil Gulliver and soap opera queen Stevie Mariner knew that the Rebel without a Cause teen idol was destined to be Elvis before Elvis. However, the giant screen star died in a fiery crash in 1955.

Stevie is going to perform at the Hollywood Post Office branch as part of the James Dean commemorative stamp celebration. During the gala event, a Dean look alike interrupts the proceedings by killing an actor who worked with Dean. Unable to resist their curiosity, the formerly married to one another, but still friendly couple, Neil and Stevie investigate the mysterious stranger. However, instead of a simple case, the evidence they find points to Dean not dying in the car crash and a conspiracy in progress for years that kills several of his film co-stars. Now the assailants target Neil and Stevie.

Robert S. Levinson uses his droll wit to provide readers with a humorous look at the seemingly surreal world of Hollywood. Stevie and Neil provide a charming and bickering duet that easily could have starred Lucy and Desi. Their relationship is cleverly intertwined to support the exciting story line of THE JAMES DEAN AFFAIR. The fast-paced plot makes filmdom seem darker and seedier than usual, but handled with a classy touch that enthralls the audience with the sub-culture and the mystery.

Harriet Klausner

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