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Homeowners in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas are not secure as of late as a rash of home invasions have occurred. Frank and his partner utilize brute force in their crime and reveal their boss, but Diane disguises herself and appears as a gentleman bandit. Meanwhile, Andrea is a product of a law enforcement upbringing and has opted for a career in private investigations. Eventually, she is working on a variety of unsolved high-end home invasions. While Diane begins unloading a portion of her loot, she continues her crimes and hooks up with Frank. During the commission of a planned robbery, things go awry when Frank assaults a hysterical victim. Shortly thereafter, Andrea is assigned the case and pursues Frank and Diane. Unbeknownst to the robbers, their latest victim is the sister of an organized crime figure. Their problems have just begun.
A multifront battle between bandits, law enforcement, and organized crime provides much of this mystery novel's excitement. The multi-perspective narrative brings the lives of aspiring actress turned rogue Diane, career criminal and underworld associate Frank, and intelligent but ambitious sleuth Andrea into focus. The action commences from the beginning as Frank and a doomed associate raid a wealthy home and rough up the occupants. The criminal exploits of Frank and Diane are expertly juxtaposed with Andrea's investigative efforts. While the criminals are colorful, they are justifiably shown as cutthroat in their dealings. Andrea is likable as the heroine who must overcome hardheaded law enforcement and shady underworld figures to obtain justice and catch some crooks. This is a well-written effort with a rewarding payoff in its conclusion.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review