Framed in death by J.D. Robb

It always amazes me how J.D. Robb can produce a new plot in each of her mysteries in the In death series. Framed in death is the 61st in the series and I have read many of them, enjoying the characters, homicide police officers, Eve and Peabody, as well as Roarke and friends. The series is set in the future, this one in 2061, just far away to make hover cars and links sound interesting, while still giving New York a familiar feeling.

When a young woman is found dressed and posed like the famous painting, The girl with a pearl earring outside a gallery, Dallas is brought in to solve the case. It looks like there is a frustrated artist prowling the haunts of the city and picking up people who resemble those in well-known portraits, luring them to his studio and dressing them in identical costumes as he tries to replicate old masters.

As the murders continue, the team is plunged into the world of art, gallery owners, artists and models. Eve and her expert team explore where the killer could have sourced the expensive materials, fabrics, paints and brushes that were used. They gradually build up a profile of the murderer and it was fascinating to follow how this was done.

Framed in death is sure to be a best seller. Robb has authored another unique police procedural that her fans will love. It is tightly written, with likeable characters, a interesting insight into the art world and a smooth, easy to read narrative. A Q&A section with J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts) at the end adds to the enjoyment of the books as she answers questions about her characters and how she writes.

Themes: Police, Murder, Art, Detectives.

Pat Pledger