Rating: 
Summary: Suspensful, exciting, smart!
Review: This book had me riveted from start to finish. The lead females were smart and never once made the kind of idiot mistakes so many writers feel are necessary for female lead characters. They decide their own fates and they decide them well. They are victim to circumstances but they never allow themselves to be victimized or controlled by them. These characters are excellent role models for women of all ages. The book seems predictable, but only till the next page. The plot twists and turns under the superb guidance of Ms. Wilhelm until you are just breathless with it. I heartily recommend this book!
Rating: 
Summary: I didn't hate it
Review: This was my first Kate Wilhelm novel. I may choose to read more. I enjoyed Lee Donne, the main character because she was smart, and she didn't succumb to stupid romantic subplots that so often ruin these books. I liked the premise of the book as well: mystery meets history. I was bothered, however, by the typical Southern stereotypes portrayed. I am a Southener, and I can assure you that, for example, a bar patronized by tourists, would never have the television turned to a white power spouting racist politician. Come on, this is New Orleans. Tourism is its bread and butter. And, if Ms. Wilhelm had spent any time there, she would know that New Orleans is a huge melting pot of cultures that typically have melded to make it a fascinating place. It is a place where differences are appreciated. Furthermore, I tired of the descriptions of the houses and how disgusted Lee became with the fabulous richness "built on the backs of slaves." I felt it was overkill. I appreciate what Ms. Wilhelm was trying to say about how racism still rules some areas of the South. I would never try to deny that it exists here. But I took offense in the fact that she stereotyped all Southeners by the 1% of crazies, whackos, and idiots that also happen to reside here with the those of us who want racism and hatred to end not just in the South, but everywhere. Basically, this fact overshadowed what was a well-written and really fun read. Overall, I enjoyed the novel.
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