Wicked Is the Night

When former race car driver Trick Granger picks up a mysterious hitchhiker, he discovers a whole series of puzzles. “Nevada White” has escaped from a mental institution where her memory and real name were wiped out, and now a pair of undead “detectives” are trying to kill her. She’s plagued by uncontrollable psychic flashes and her pursuers’ accusation that she murdered her father. Intrigued by Nevada’s resemblance to a ghost haunting his Northern California home and dismissive of the danger, Trick hires her to clean up the inherited mansion. Mulvaney (Something Wicked ) spins a diverting if predictable tale with some suspense, but she divulges too many secrets in scenes from the villain’s viewpoint. The paranormal elements add atmosphere, but won’t do much for readers who prefer them integral to the plot. (Dec.)