Unsigned

Publisher Alex Plumtree's plans to attend a book-signing by one of his most noted writers suddenly change when it is announced that the writer has been killed in a boating accident. To complicate matters, a journalist insists on having coffee with PlumtreeDostensibly to tell him that he knows something about the author's deathDbut then gunfire breaks out. When Plumtree runs outside to find out what's going on, he is certain that he spots his fianc e, whom he believed was killed recently while traveling. Over the next few daysDwhich happen to precede the Frankfurt Book FairDPlumtree receives two unsolicited bids to buy his company, and his landlord insists on taking back the building in which Plumtree's company is housed. While simultaneously managing his company and dealing with authors, staff and colleagues, Plumtree turns into super-sleuth and discovers a sinister plot by some corporate giants to take over the publishing business in England. Kaewart, author of four other Booklover's Mystery series, knows the book world well, but she has burdened this novel with too many plot elements. Further, although Plumtree is an appealing character, Kaewart does not flesh him out enough to keep readers interested. Mystery fans who work in publishing might find this novel slightly amusing but, overall, it's too muddled for most readers to enjoy. (Jan.)