(7.00)300 pages.
This was the first novel from Matt Goldman, who previously worked in television.
Faced with an unusual crime, a suburban police department calls in a private detective with police experience and a record of solving crimes 'off the books' – Nils Shapiro.
A woman has been murdered in her home. A snowstorm has conveniently concealed possible evidence. Furthermore, the house interior (and the body!) is covered in a thick layer of dust, contaminating the crime scene.
Who could have committed this crime? Was it her ex-husband, or her boyfriend with a history of violence? Was it the mystery man known as Slim? Who was the frequent caller on the dead woman's phone?
Nils Shapiro is on the case. He's local, and knows the area and its people. He knows some of the suspects as well. Shapiro is a troubled man, drinking too much, unwilling to break away from his nurturing ex-wife.
This is one of those novels where the setting is a rich part of the story. The author gives us the feeling of Minnesota in the winter, the roads, the neighborhoods, the people.
Shapiro's love life is also part of the story. Will he sleep with the much younger, vulnerable medical student? Does he still carry the torch for his wealthy, caring ex-wife? What about the girls from the bar, the talker and her pretty friend? (Note: The sex scenes are a bit steamy.)
I found this novel to be an easy read, with lots of plot twists and psychology. It was fun to try to guess who the murderer was (I was wrong!). I enjoyed the setting, but the character of Shapiro was difficult to empathize with. There was a little bit of political humor which I found annoying.
Can you game it? There is a violent episode late in the novel, but it's too one-sided to make a good scenario.
Since I enjoyed the plotting and the setting, and the writing style, I'll give this one a recommendation.
Reviewed by 
Editor in Chief Bill 
.