Book Review: Nightbird

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Nightbird     Amazon US PB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada PB Amazon Canada HC
Edward Dee
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Police Procedural
Series: Ryan & Gregory # 4
Warner, Oct 1999, $23.95, 304 pp.

In the Times Square area, Manhattan detective Joe Gregory tells his partner Anthony Ryan that he just saw a jumper commit suicide. Just a few weeks from appearing in the chorus of a Broadway production, actress Gillian Stone apparently killed herself. The two detectives have some doubts on her death based on flimsy circumstantial evidence and Ryan swearing she whispered the words “I love you”.

Journalist Danny Eumont knew the victim. He strongly feels she would never kill herself. He informs his uncle Anthony that he saw his former lover Gillian last night after four months of not hearing from her. He swears she would never commit the ultimate act of self destruction. Danny thinks Broadway producer Trey Winters had something to do with Gillian’s death. However, seemingly tangential individuals not only complicate the investigation, but apparently hold the key to the solution.

The fourth novel in Edward Dee’s NYPD series is an interesting tale due to the footwork and bantering of the two lead detectives. Anthony and Joe suffer from the respective losses of their only male offspring. This prejudices their investigation whose goal is not to uncover a killer, or prove a suicide, but to protect Ryan’s nephew. The story line is entertaining and the climax pays homage to the French Connection. Mr. Dee makes mayhem in midtown Manhattan that brings the city to life as only seen by an insider.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner