BLOOD SINISTER by Cynthia Harrod-Eagles
St. Martin's Minotaur/Thomas Dunne Books - October 2001
ISBN 0 312 27485 8 - Hardcover
Mystery / Police

Reviewed by Elaine Broome, MyShelf.com
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A violent and confusing death, a politically sensitive case, a relationship at an impasse - sounds like just an ordinary week for DI Bill Slider, doesn't it? In Cynthia Harrod-Eagles' terrific new book, BLOOD SINISTER, the long-suffering Slider is once again tiptoeing through his own personal and professional minefield.
Figuring out who killed journalist Phoebe Agnew won't be easy: the radical writer has made many enemies throughout her career including the police. Figuring out why may be even more difficult. Her personal history is entwined with that of many powerful and wealthy figures, some with secrets they'd rather not share with the public. Pretty soon, the lies, large and small begin to pile up, confusing the investigation even more. Who met Phoebe for dinner the night she died? Why are government officials and their friends stonewalling investigators? Slider starts to think he may never get at the truth this time.
In the midst of this baffling case, Bill Slider's personal life skids along in its usual chaotic manner. Finally and painfully divorced, he is faced with the possibility of losing his lover Joanna. Partner and friend Jim Atherton appears dangerously close to the edge and won't let Slider close enough to understand. What's a decent, kind, confused man to do?

It's been way too long between Bill Slider books - but BLOOD SINISTER was worth waiting for! Spending time with Slider, Atherton and Joanna is like visiting with old, comfortable friends . . . friends who are clever, witty and very smart! Cynthia Harrod-Eagles' books are like that too: the mysteries are always complex and intriguing, the action intense, and the characters humorous, real and vivid. BLOOD SINISTER is no exception! It's a wonderful book in a series that's really something special.