Book Review: In the Event of My Death

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

In the Event of My Death     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Carlene Thompson
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Woman Main Character
St. Martin's, Dec 1999, $6.50, 336 pp.

Overall, Wheeling, West Virginia is a nice, quiet city though there are exceptions to that general rule. Eighteen years ago, six twelve-year old girls formed a secret club known as the "Six of Hearts". They played together and pulled playful pranks as expected from preadolescents. However, as the group became older, their antics started to go out control and dangerous until one of the girls accidentally hung herself during a satanic ritual. The group disbanded, but kept the truth secret even when they learned their deceased friend was pregnant.

Thirteen years later, one of the girls, a Broadway star, is bludgeoned to death. A drawing in the mirror with the victim's blood states states: "Six of Hearts" accompanied by a Tarot card marked Judgment. Another member, high-powered attorney Monica Boyd concludes that the deaths are linked to their old club. She returns to her hometown to meet with the surviving members. Except for Laurel Damante, none of the others want to go to the police. Another one of them is soon killed and Laurel feels she is being stalked. Someone wants four broken hearts.

Carlene Thompson always writes a good woman in distress story line, but her latest, IN THE EVENT OF MY DEATH, is not only her best but an excellent tale. The interrelationships of the four surviving members are fascinating to watch unfold, but Laurel steals the show. She is the voice of reason and common sense even as an unknown assailant threatens them and sends her friends into panic. Her resiliency and refusal to go quietly propels the plot to a higher quality level that leaves the audience wanting more works from Ms. Thompson.

Harriet Klausner

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