A One-Woman Man (Intrigue , No 480)

Rating:
Summary: A Good Mystery, Well Told
Review: This book marks Gamble's return to Intrigue after a three year absence, and while not perfect, it is still a good read. Elizabeth Monette, who was adopted, has returned to her hometown to discover who she really is--and who is sending her death threats. There, she runs into Tommy Lee McCall, a former cop who just happens to save her from an assassination attempt shortly after they meet. Elizabeth's life is definitely in danger, but can Tommy Lee possibly save her? The romance was probably the weakest part of this book, since they fall in love relatively quickly, but don't getting around to admitting it for the longest time because both thinks the other doesn't feel the same way. In other words, it's a simple misunderstanding that needlessly prolongs the conflict. The mystery, however, was very strong. The setting is the Southern town of Belle Fleur, which is having its annual beauty pageant. The details of the pageant and of the Southern milieu are very enjoyable, and although Gamble seems to be giving a lot away by revealing who the villain's henchmen are, the killer's identity is kept a firm secret until the end. (If only I could say the same about Elizabeth's father, who is ridiculously easy to guess, since he has no purpose in the plot, yet seems to be hanging around all the time. Gee, wonder what he's there for?) While not perfect, Gamble's book is a fast read and very well written (especially the prologue, which completely sucked me in). Definitely worth the time.