Neiderman's 23rd novel (after The Need ) is a fast-moving thriller with an up-to-the-minute premise: a secret conspiracy of men with politically incorrect family values. When Meg Lester finds her husband, Scott, in bed with another woman, she files for divorce and custody of their daughter, Justine, citing Scott's cocaine habit, his liquor bills and his unreliability at work. Scott, a whining mess who blames everybody else for his problems, is approached by Philip Dante, an insurance salesman who claims to have won an identical custody battle only through the help of the Solomon Organization, named from the fable of Solomon and the two mothers. Naturally Scott applies to the Organization for help, and naturally nothing is quite what it seems. When Meg is attacked and almost killed, Scott is framed for attempted murder and the kidnapping of his daughter, who has disappeared--as have Dante and everybody connected to the Solomon Organization. Although hampered by an initially unlikable main character whom the plot requires to be almost criminally gullible, this taut thriller ultimately proves to be an enjoyable read with an unfashionable undercurrent of anger against women who dare to live lives of their own.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Salesman Scott Lester, on a downward slide from drugs and liquor, hits bottom when his wife, Meg, catches him in bed with another woman while their daughter, Justine, is in the next room. At his divorce trial, Scott is convinced he'll never see his daughter again. Outside the courtroom, Philip Dante introduces him to the Solomon Organization, a group that helps divorced fathers with their children--in any way possible. Desperate, Scott accepts their help. Too late, he realizes that the Solomon Organization is nothing more than a child-stealing ring. After attacking Meg, they frame Scott for the crime and kidnap Justine for sale to a childless couple. With the help of a sympathetic attorney and a private eye, Scott stays one step ahead of the Solomons and rescues his daughter. Neiderman, author of several books, including The Need (Putnam, 1992), has woven a taut tale of horror made more horrible by its very plausibility. This should appeal to horror and mystery enthusiasts alike. Recommended for any size fiction collection.
- Grant A. Fredericksen, Illinois Prairie Dist. P.L., Metamora
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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