The Bluest Blood

This book was a delight. The writer can really write--I loved the phrases and language--as well as keep up the pace of a good strong plot. Also the author knows how to set a scene! I'm going to backtrack and read the rest in the series.

This is the first Gillian Roberts book I've read. After this enjoyable mystery, I intend to read all I can get my hands on...

Philly Prep is as elite of a school as there is in the country. The Philadelphia school accepts students whose veins run so blue, they seem to be a royal purple. English teacher Amanda Pepper is a bit surprised that new money, Neddy and Tea Roederer, were able to buy entrance to the school for their child since it would be easier to hitch a ride on the shuttle than being admitted to the school. Outside the school, Reverend Harry Spiers (whose son also attends) and his Moral Ecology group protest many books, including some considered to be classics, that are contained in the library. He wants them burned. Apparently the debate focuses between Neddy and Harry, who threatens to expose his adversary's past. However, the dispute turns even uglier when first Harry is murdered and then Neddy is killed too. Amanda accompanied by Mackenzie, her law enforcement boy friend, investigates the web of lies spun by both sides that has led to these violent deaths. No writer of books today peppers their works with more humorous spins on words than the brilliant and witty Gilliam Roberts. THE BLUEST BLOOD is the eighth entry in the "Pepper" who-done-its and like the previous novels, is fast-paced, cleverly spiced with bon mots that enhance the literary writing while moving the story line forward. Amanda and Mackenzie continue to be refreshing, jocular, and wonderful characters. This reviewer strongly recommends the entire collection for readers who enjoy a humorous but well written mystery. Harriet Klausner