Customer Reviews

Hard Tack

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Hard Tack, from the Cat Marsala series by Barbara K'Amato, is ones of those books that makes you want the main character to move next door, so you can become buddies. Chicago based Cat is a clever, quick-witted woman who solves mysteries as a sideline to her "regular" work as a freelance journalist. The books open with her man problems . . . she has one too many boyfriends, but can't make up her mind which is Mr. Right. Now both want her to join them for July 4th celebrations and whomever she chooses, the other will be hurt. Should she spend the holiday with nice, conservative John at his parents' place in Wisconsin, or go with Mike, a wild, hard-drinking fellow reporter, to cover baloon races? Cat avoids the decision by accepting an invitation to sail with a wealthy furniture maker, his wife, and 6 other guests on a luxurious 62 foot sloop named EASY GIRL. Of course, Cat hates water and can't swim, but, hey, how bad can it be? They are only going out on a lake. (Hasn't she ever noticed the sheer SIZE of Lake Michigan? ) The trip proves to be anything but uneventful, with several onboard romances (including ANOTHER man for Cat), financial wheelings and dealings, a severe storm, a locked room mystery, and lots of champagne. D'Amato's story is well constructed, and the facts and solution are believable. Her use of Cat's ignorance of boats to include facts about sailing adds interest to the story without distracting from the plot. There is even a glossary of nautical terms for the inexperienced. As some understanding of sailboats figures into the puzzle, this is really helpful. If you enjoy mysteries with well constructed characters, a dose of humor, and clear storylines, this a book for you.