The Devil's Interval

In Peterson’s smart sequel to Edited to Death (2005), which introduced San Francisco magazine editor Maggie Fiori, Maggie swears up, down, and sideways to her husband that she will no longer investigate affairs that don’t concern her, but her criminal defense lawyer friend, Isabella Fuentes, easily persuades her to make a trip to San Quentin Prison to see Travis Gifford (aka the Limousine Lothario), a limo driver on death row for murdering his client and lover, socialite Grace Plummer. Readers will enjoy Maggie’s smart-alecky quips about Grace’s social circle as she investigates the secret life of the superficially perfect socialite. Never have therapy sessions been more enjoyable than Maggie’s, as her signature wit is on full display when her husband drags her to marriage counseling. Maggie’s inner monologue carries the story, transforming what could have been a humdrum premise into a fast-paced, intelligent tale of intrigue that will keep readers guessing until the refreshing end. Agent: Amy Rennert, Amy Rennert Agency. (Sept.)