Better Off Dead

Rating:
Summary: Grim but good
Review: The heroine is an unhappy alcoholic bisexual British journalist investigating the murder of two pop music stars. The setting is the London music scene. Some blurbs and reviews emphasized the computer content but the only computer-related event I noticed was that someone introduces a virus to prevent a suspect erasing his files. Statistical sales projections are an element but that doesn't seem very high high-tech. It is hard-boiled with rapid action and strong hints of sexuality and violence, although by the end there has been only minor violence (the murders are off-stage) and no explicit sex. Very little humor. Nobody seems to be enjoying themselves much although they spend their time partying and clubbing and surrounded by money. It's a page-turner but some might find it depressing.