"amateur sleuth cozy"

Being the First Daughter of US President Elliot James Cooper carries enough responsibilities for any person to cope with, but Eve Cooper also shares First Lady chores with her aunt since her mom is dead. Thus Eve journeys to the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs where her dad will provide a congratulatory speech to the graduates at the commencement ceremony. Part of her itinerary is to fly in an Academy glider, so Eve hides her fears and accomplishes the task.

However, not long afterward, a glider smashes into the nearby mountains, killing one person and seriously injuring an another. Feeling paranoid, Eve wonders whether someone meant to assassinate her, but blew the assignment. Soon her theory proves correct as someone tries to kill the First Daughter. However, Eve refuses to remain in SHARP FOCUS as a lame duck target by attempting to uncover the identity of the executioner although that leaves her doubly exposed.

The key to the second First Daughter mystery (see DOUBLE EXPOSURE) is the insight into a First Family provided by co- author Susan Ford, a former White House resident. The tale is an amateur sleuth cozy rather than a deep political thriller, but Eve is a delightful protagonist especially when she performs required tasks in which she must hide her apprehension or disdain from the ever-present media. Fans who enjoy a cozy with an intriguing lead protagonist will want to read the latest collaboration between Ms. Ford and Laura Hayden.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted June 1, 2003

Summary

Eve Cooper takes a glider ride at the Air Force Academy. Shortly thereafter, the same glider is involved in a fatal crash. Just a coincidence, or did someone try to sabotage the plane? Is a killer stalking the President's daughter? Or is the real target her dad? A vivid you-are-there feeling adds extra sparkle to this fast-paced and witty puzzler.