Amazon.com Review
Congressman Paul Latham is about to be named secretary of state but dies beneath the Statue of Freedom before he can accept the honor. When his body is found, a 9-mm pistol clutched in his hand (is it suicide or murder?), rumors begin to fly, targeting Latham as no better than Warren Brazier's lackey and threatening the credibility of the administration's foreign policy. Brazier, a wealthy industrialist and potent political force (à la Ross Perot), is conducting questionable business with the Russian government (à la George Soros's evil twin), and nothing will stop him in his quest to snap up formerly state-owned industries at bargain prices--certainly not a trivial consideration such as trade legislation pending in the House Foreign Relations Committee.
When Mac Smith is asked to bring his legal expertise to a research mission in Moscow, he finds himself attempting to clear Latham's name--and getting closer and closer to some very dangerous individuals.
Margaret Truman is operating according to established parameters in Murder in the House, but fans will appreciate the relative skill with which she weaves together the themes of disturbing relationships on two continents: hard-line Communists with the Russian mafia on one hand, and politics with American big business on the other.
Readers may want to check out other entries in the Capital Crimes series--try Murder on Embassy Row, Murder at the National Gallery, or Murder in the CIA. --Kelly Flynn
--This text refers to the
Mass Market Paperback
edition.
From School Library Journal
YA. "Congressman Found Dead on Capitol Hill, Murder Suspected" could be the newspaper headline initially reporting the nasty deed involved in this novel. However, the murder does not occur until well into the plot. Readers have gotten to know Paul Latham and will empathize with his teenage daughter, Molly, who is just starting as a page in the Capitol. It is Mackensie Smith, attorney and friend of Latham, who unravels the secret spheres of influence?political, industrial, and social?that reveal the truth in an exciting climax that involves Molly. The many background details of life and politics in Washington make this novel an entertaining way to reinforce what has been taught in government class. The book also shows many behind-the-scene details and events that otherwise go unnoticed. However, there are many characters, both Russian and American, to keep straight. The involvement of a teenage character makes this an excellent hook for YAs who have not read any of Truman's prior novels. They will also appreciate the humor, the fast pace, and the unintimidating format.?Claudia Moore, W. T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an alternate
Hardcover
edition.
