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Summary: Few changes needed; a good mystery leaving you wanting more
Review: A first mystery by an author of romances written under twopen names. "Slow Dancing..." introduces us to a solid, 'in your face' protagonist you will want to read about againwhen Chappell's next book in the series releases early in1997. Our heroine has been divorced and on her own as a newspaper reporter, since her rich, handsome and irresponsiblehubsand decided commitment wasn't for him and disappeareda few hours after their wedding. After ten years, she is summoned to the 'family home' because her ex has died. Asshe drives there her ex, as a rather cold, transparent vapor,appears by her side requesting that she find who killed him.She never could tell him no; only other problem, no one elsesees him, and the story delightfully proceeds. Ms. Chappeli
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Summary: Try that again Sam.
Review: Helen Chappell isn't a nationally known author, though she could easily become one with this series. It is indeed rare to find a quack as both a heroine and as an amateur sleuth. And it is an abolutely great idea to have a ghost as her partner -- especially if the ghost happens to be her long lost husband. Helen does well with this first novel in the series but she leaves a nagging feeling that she simply isn't up to the challenge. This book is a great start for a woman who basically isn't a very good, or a very convincing, writer. If you enjoy a good change of pace this is the book for you.
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Summary: A puzzling mystery that's VERY funny!
Review: Helen Chappell's Slow-Dancing With the Angel of Death ranks right up there with the best books I've read this year. I found myself identifying with the heroine, Hollis Ball, from the very first page. She is independent, intelligent, and hysterically funny. The book begins with Hollis heading to the funeral of her wealthy, irresponsible ex-husband. Hollis may have loved Sam at one time, but she hasn't forgiven him for his past actions, and she certainly doesn't want to deal with his wealthy, obnoxious family members. Unfortunately for Hollis, Sam may be dead, but he's definitely NOT gone. He begins appearing to Hollis at inopportune moments. At first she thinks she's cracking up from the stress, but she finally accepts that she is indeed being haunted by the ghost of her dead ex-husband. Sam wants Hollis to investigate his death & she finds that she cannot refuse- after all, she is a reporter and her curiousity gets the best of her. She ends up stumbling across shady land deals, enviornmental terrorists, and crooked politicians. The secondary characters in this book make it even better. Chappell paints a funny and believable portrait of the residents of the small Maryland town. After reading this book, I ran out for the other two in the series, Dead Duck & Ghost of a Chance. They are just as good, if not better. I'm very glad someone recommended Helen Chappell's books to me.
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