Strangers in Death by J.D.Robb (aka Nora Roberts)published by Putnam in February 2008 (HC)
The new novel in the #1 New York Times-bestselling series.
Technology may be different in 2060 New York, yet the city is still a place of many cultures and great divides. But as ever, some murders receive more attention than others-especially those in which the victim is a prominent businessman, found in his Park Avenue apartment, tied to the bed-and strangled-with cords of black velvet.
It doesn't surprise Lieutenant Eve Dallas that Thomas Anders's scandalous death is a source of titillation and speculation to the public-and of humiliation to his family. But while people in the city are talking about it, those close to Anders aren't so anxious to do the same. With some help from her billionaire husband, Roarke, Eve's soon knocking on doors-or barging through them-to find answers.
But the facts don't add up. Physical evidence suggests that the victim didn't struggle. The security breach in the apartment indicates that the killer was someone known to the family, but everyone's alibi checks out. Was this a crime of passion in a kinky game gone wrong-or a meticulously planned execution? It's up to Dallas to solve a case in which strangers may be connected in unexpected, and deadly, ways.
Genre: mystery, futuristic
Series: In Death series, Book #26 (?)
The Storyline: The back blurb does half its job. It tells you a bit about the story, but it's also a bit misleading. Basically, Lieutenant Dallas has caught another hot case, Thomas Ander's death. The very wealthy man was found naked, tied up to his bed with velvet ropes and lots of kinky toys by his bedside. Cause of death: suffocation. Everything indicates a night of sex gone wrong; however, it doesn't fit with the victim's nature and reputation. Eve knows very early who the murderer is, the problem is proving it.
My Opinion: Another great book. Seriously, la Nora did it again :) I'd say the book was a bit tame, but in a good way. I mean, so many events had happened in the last few books that a simple case and a bit less drama is welcomed.
As I said earlier, Eve quickly figures out who the culprit is and most of the book is digging up information and linking the dots. Roarke didn't help that much, except for giving his opinions on the victim, his entourage and the suspects as well as help digging up some financials... which is, again, welcomed. I don't know about you, but sometimes, I think that Roarke gets involved too much in the case and although it's understandable given his background and talents, I find it overboard. In any case, Roarke is back serving breakfast and being friendly :) This book is also a catch up with many of the characters, that have kind of been neglected. We continue to see Peabody's career moving up and greatest of all, Louise and Charles are taking their relationship to the next step. There's also a new kid in the story that will probably become another fixture in the series. But best of all, Eve is as bitchy as ever :) There's just something about Eve and her attitude. In other heroines, it'd probably be annoying, but in Eve, it's just right. Just the ways she acts and talks - it's fun, it fits her perfectly and it makes you laugh.
One thing that I'd have liked to see... Eve and Mrs Feeney's interaction. I often wonder about these two. We all know that Eve looks up at Feeney as a father figure... so what about Mrs Feeney? Does Eve squirm in front of Mrs Feeney? Does Mrs Feeney resent Eve for being such a part of Feeney's life?
So final say? Get this book. It's not a wowzer, but it's a solid and enjoyable addition to the series.
My Grade: B+
