You Have the Right to Remain Silent

Marian Larch mystery

ISBN: 1-55690-836-9 Order from: Recorded Books

A likable heroine and well-paced plot compensate for the unlikely motivations and awkward coincidences, bringing overall satisfaction.

Reviewed by David on March 15, 2003

Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural)

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of You Have the Right to Remain Slient.

Marian Larch is a detective sergeant in a tough precinct in Manhattan. Her challenges stem more from her colleagues than the crime on the street. Marian's skills and dedication are put to the test when a more senior investigator's vacation puts Marian in charge of a sensational multiple homocide apparently connected to classified defense work.

Working with the secretive FBI, ambitious superiors, resentful partner and lazy colleagues, Marian must unravel the motivations of rich, powerful, and scared witnesses. Her solid work and dedication, however, will get to the truth—if she can survive schemes of her colleagues.

Full Review: The novel starts with the demonstration of competence and dedication by Sergeant Larch in the face of difficult colleagues, and continues from there. The proganist is strong but not invulnerable, creating a good rapport with the reader. The plot, unfortunately, seems baroque and improbable, and the coincidences strain belief as well.

However, sympathy for the main character, and the slow but solid procedural investigation carry the book forward, keeping the reader's attention and providing entertainment and suspense.

Overall: 6; Plot: 4; Characters: 6; Style: 5.5; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 5;

ISBN: 1-55690-836-9 Order from: Recorded Books