dot.dead by Keith Raffel

32. – 495.) dot.dead by Keith Raffel – (The first book I have purchased because I met the author. Keith was at the author event at the “M” is for Mystery bookstore in San Mateo and then across the street at the sports bar. He had an excellent marketing device in giving out a business card listing the book and websites. I bought the book at “M” a couple of days later.) There is a clever premise with Silicon Valley rising star, Ian Michaels, developing a personal connection with his weekly maid, Gwendolyn Goldberg, through exchanges of personal notes. When she is murdered in his house the Palo Alto police are justly suspicious of his assertions they have no direct relationship. As the investigation focuses on Ian he is supported by his best friends Paul and Kathy Berks. Paul heads a tech firm, Accelenet, where Ian hopes to become COO. Intertwined through the plot are Ian’s personal relationships, a tech story at his company and the murder investigation. There is a convincing portrayal of defence counsel, Ms. Ishayama. There is a far subtler relationship than usual in mysteries between Ian (primary suspect seeking to clear himsel) and the investigating police officers. Even before reading the author bio it was clear Keith was a part of Silicon Valley’s technology world. The story is precise and completely logical. There is a scientific process to solution. I wish there had been at least one average looking person among the major characters. Ian is an engaging individual. I look forward to his next adventure. Hardcover or paperback. (Aug. 19/09)

****

When Kerrie from the Mysteries in Paradise blog was holding her Alphabet in Crime Fiction earlier this year I profiled Keith in "R" is for Raffel.