Mary Clay, Bike Week Blues

Bike Week Blues

Mary Clay

IF, Feb 2004, 274 pp.

ISBN 0971042977

The DAFFODILS (Divorced and Finally Free of Deceitful, Incentive, Licentious Scum) are in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Leigh is living in Penny Sue's father's home rent free, working part-time, and trying to recover from being dumped for a bimbo her daughter's age. Ruthie plans to attend a metaphysical seminar and Penny Sue has followed her boyfriend down here so they can spend some time together during festivities of Bike Week.

The first couple of days are great for Penny Sue and Rich, but one day out of the blue he dumps her. Shortly thereafter, a dead body is found near Penny Sue's car and she knows that the dead man was hanging around with Rich. The police want to bring Rich in for questioning but he has disappeared with the criminal Vulture and his girlfriend who deals drugs and are wanted for other assorted activities. Penny Sue cajoles Mary Beth and Leigh into helping her find Rich before the police do and what follows is one of the funniest capers this reviewer has had the privilege of reading.

Mary Clay has the right touch when it comes to writing a mystery that will appeal to fans who like something funny, witty, catty, and filled with plenty of action. Penny plays Lucy to Leigh's Ethel and Ruthie is the voice of reason. The plotting is well done, all the characters (villains, odious ex male mates, and heroines) feel real and readers will find themselves reading BIKE WEEK BLUES in one sitting.

Harriet Klausner