Book Review: Pisces Rising

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Pisces Rising     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Martha C. Lawrence
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Psychic   Woman Main Character
Series: Dr. Elizabeth Chase # 4
St. Martin's, Mar 2000, $23.95, 240 pp.

Private detective Elizabeth Chase has an edge over most of her peers since she possesses psychic powers. Even with the sight, Elizabeth fails to save someone she loves from being killed. Three months later, Elizabeth remains a recluse, unable to accept any clients. That finally changes when a legal colleague asks Elizabeth to find evidence that would prove his client did not kill and scalp the owner of the Mystic Mesa casino on the Temecu Reservation in California.

Former doctor Bill Hunter lost his license to practice medicine because of illegal activity associated with his gambling addiction. Now he is the prime suspect in the murder case that sends Elizabeth to the Native American reservation. After she starts her inquiries, Elizabeth learns that Bill confessed to the killing. Apparently, Bill's former spouse was murdered while he languished in prison. Elizabeth quickly realizes that the gambling question is complex and volatile issue with both sides wanting their agenda executed.

PISCES RISING is a fantastic who-done-it that is filled with numerous viable suspects, leaving the reader to wonder whom is truly guilty. However, the exciting story line takes a backseat to Elizabeth. The audience has deeply cared about Elizabeth during her previous novels, but will cherish her even more this time as she struggles with her grief. Martha C. Lawrence proves once again that she is a brilliant storyteller.

Harriet Klausner

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