Almost Dead
by Lisa Jackson
Published by Zebra Books
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Reviewed by Diane Keyes
Lisa Jackson created quite a dilemma for me last week with her latest mystery Almost Dead. Just after the author teased me with the very first chapters of this highly readable, extremely “un-put-down-able” book, a family emergency required that I spend countless hours at the hospital.
Unfortunately, a book titled Almost Dead seemed inappropriate fare for a hospital bedside, and so instead I ended up with ancient dog-eared copies of Newsweek and People. Happily for all concerned, although the Almost Dead-less hours were long, the crisis was short-lived and I was soon able to appease my inner book glutton.
Compellingly written and enticingly vague, Jackson throws the reader just enough tantalizing clues as the bodies pile up to keep us hungering for more. Filled with unpredictable twists and turns, the plot of Almost Dead corners on a dime, taking the reader through a maze of false leads and puzzling dead ends, only to hit the finish line with stealth line precision.
Although the book does not feel like an imitation in any way, I’d like to know if this gifted author is a fan of Alfred Hitchcock. Her style is reminiscent of Hitchcock at his wily, capricious best–with things never quite being as they seem. She uses San Francisco in true Hitchcockian fashion, as well with San Francisco in winter, well cast as a central character in much the same way the master uses Mount Rushmore in North by Northwest or the Bates motel in Psycho.
My only complaint is the all too familiar way she has the main character swoon at the sight of her estranged husband. Yet, even that small flaw is redeemed by book’s end. Infinitely preferable to old magazines, Almost Dead is a San Francisco treat. Just be sure to keep it under wrap in hospital rooms.
Armchair Interviews says: Lively review for an Almost Dead story.
Author’s Web site: http://www.LisaJackson.com