Drop Dead

I live in Europe but grew up in the States and go back from time to time to visit family. In Chicago, I always stop by Unabridged Books to pick up some gay literature, and this time "Drop Dead" dropped into my hands. It won't be a cat's whisker of a minute before I pick up the other Paul Turner mysteries, 'cause this one was great. The relationship between gay Paul Turner and his distinctly not gay partner Buck Fenwick is drawn hilariously, the relationship between gay Paul Turner and his two children from a previous relationship is touching, the story is interesting, the fashion world is drawn perfectly ... in other words, this was what for me passes as a "couldn't put it down" (I can put books down because I spend most of my time working at the computer, but when I'm free for a bit, I keep on reading). Even if you're not gay, pick this one up ... it's a hoot.

I've read most of Mark Zubro's work, and I think that "Drop Dead" is his best effort yet! A mystery that kept me interested and guessing, good descriptions of places in and around Chicago, likeable hero, and a keen, yet dry sense of humor.

"Drop Dead" features deliciously snappy dialog, along with Zubro's realistically drawn characters and well-paced action. In this latest addition to the Paul Turner mystery series, Zubro gets the balance just right. Read it!

Chicago detectives Paul Turner and Buck Fenwick investigate the death of the world's most famous male supermodel Cullen Furyk because of a fall from a penthouse of the exclusive Archangel Hotel. A witness swears he thought someone pushed the victim though he admits he cannot be fully certain due to the distance. The two cops begin their interview process of everyone who was on the same floor as the deceased by thinking a potential murder occurred.Paul and Buck learn a lot about the workings of the fashion industry in Chicago. Apparently, two major companies (GUINEVERE, INC, and Velshki and Heying) viciously compete with one another. GUINEVERE has had an edge due to Cullen being their exclusive spokesperson. They also find out that the victim led a promiscuous sex life (mostly with males). Several individuals had motives and opportunity, but the two law enforcement officials know they must uncover the identity of a murderer because the eyes of the world are upon Chicago.The fifth Paul Turner mystery retains the freshness and brashness of the previous four novels. Fans of police procedurals will enjoy the investigation and the camaraderie between the detectives. The acceptance of Paul being gay to the point of being embraced by his partner, other peers, and his family seems too simplistic to be totally believable. Still, the tale adds a touch of morality as he raises his two boys with wholesome values.Harriet Klausner