At his neighbor's Malibu beach house, Dr. Mark Sloan discovers the bullet-riddled bodies of an aspiring actress and Rick Kershaw, a Hollywood mega-producer. The police suspect Kershaw's wife. But when Sloan and his son investigate a local mob kingpin's involvement, Mark soon finds himself a prime suspect-while the real murderer is about to kill again.
This book is unusual in we get a quick idea of who the killer is (due to an alibi that is too perfect), and we spend all the time trying to prove it. We even get a court scene, which I really enjoyed. Lots of good action at a sleazy motel too. And Mark Sloan does a good job in finally trapping the killer. A first rate mystery!
Excellent!!!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
These Diagnosis Murder books are just as good as the TV series. My favorite so far was "The Death Merchant" (#2), but this one deserves 5 stars too. Even though Dr. Sloan was convinced from the beginning who the killer was, the book was full of suspense and even had a surprise ending. Also, the sub-plot turned out to be relevant to a memorable episode of the series. I thought the book did a good portrayal of the world of Hollywood and how it relates to the justice system. I was so sad when the series ended, and I am glad that Dr. Sloan is still solving murders!
Entertainment on its best
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
I wish I could read the Diagnosis Murder novels once again as if it is the first time. Each novel is unique, has its own style, and is very easy to read, even if the reader hasn't heared about Diagnosis Murder before. Mr. Goldberg knows perfectly how to facinate the reader, and how to lead him or her on the wrong way. It is really hard to put the novels aside before the end. For those who know the show from TV, it is as if they are watching another episode. Lee Goldberg has a loyal readership here in Germany, also in Switzerland and Austria, and we are very much looking forward for the next novels to come. 'The Shooting Script' - I couldn't believe that Mr. Goldberg can top 'The Death Merchant' - but he can!
A Great Book!!!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
I loved the show and am completely in love with the books. This is a typical set up and great reprise of Dr. Sloan and his cohorts. A must read if you loved the series. A great way to continue to enjoy the series now that the tv show is gone.
Hang on for a Great Ride
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
Mark Sloan is trying to relax at his house when he hears gun shots. Immediately responding to the scene, he finds two dead bodies. Investigating further, he discovers that they've been dead longer then just a minute or two. Only once Steve arrives does he find out that this is the producer husband of action star Lacey McClure and an unknown woman. While she points her finger at the mob, Mark isn't so sure. He thinks the killer has the perfect alibi and sets out to break it in spite of the intense media spot light. Meanwhile, there's a new administrator at Community General, and he has set out to stop Mark's murder investigations, targeting Mark's friends. Can Mark solve this murder without ruining not only his career but also the careers of those he cares about? Once again, Lee Goldberg has written a great mystery. Just when you think everything's wrapped up and you wonder what more could happen, he changes everything around. I was literally glued to the book for the last 50 pages. I couldn't wait to see how everything was going to come out. The characters continue to entertain, and I love the fact that Lee's continued from his days on the show by including Susan. She makes a great fifth to the group. This novel is a continuation of the TV show in every way you could hope for. We've got the characters we know and love in some excellent mystery plots. If you were at all a fan of the show, don't hesitate. And if you aren't familiar with the show but love a good mystery, pick these up as well. You won't be disappointed.
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