Death Benefits

ISBN: 0-679-45305-9 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com

An exciting and engaging mystery with a sympathetic protagonist, this novel is less vivid than the author's previous novels, and has an improbable but satisfying resolution.

Reviewed by David on February 28, 2001

Genre: Mystery (Suspense)

Synopsis: John Walker is a young analyst at the venerable McClaren Life and Casualty Insurance Company. When a major fraud case implicates a former friend, John becomes part of the team investigating the crime. The case that emerges points to a crime well-organized, ruthlessly executed, and almost perfectly covered up. But what happened to John's friend?

In the course of the novel, the rather passive and unambitious analyst comes to grips with violence and cruelty. He also learns the value of action, and the importance of duty. And has a bit of fun along the way.

Full Review: Perry is a skilled author, and this book does not compromise his reputation. For instance, he succeeds in the unlikely task of making insurance exciting and honorable. His characters are complex and, for the most part, intriguing.

There is some resemblance to a typical Dick Francis mystery, in taking a skilled individual from a relatively obscure profession (throwing interesting tidbits of the profession to fill the book), and exposing him to the stresses of dealing with ruthless, venal criminals. Perry's Walker is not as likely to get victimized as Francis's heroes, for which this reader is grateful.

The plot takes a less-than-plausible albeit a well-prepared, turn at the end, The biggest flaw with this book is perhaps that it is not quite as emotionally satisfying as some of Perry's earlier novels, in particular the Jane Whitefield series (Vanishing Act and sequels). John, a likable and interesting fellow that he is, is just not as engaging as Jane with her vulnerabilities and convictions.

A solid, entertaining and emotionally satisfying novel, this mystery is not the best from this author, but still very worthwhile for any reader.

Overall: 6.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 6.5; World-building: 5; Originality: 6;

ISBN: 0-679-45305-9 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com