No One Dies in Branson

Branson, Mo., a country-music mecca, provides a lively setting for this decidedly lackluster mystery. Tampa newspaperwoman Emily Stone comes to Branson on assignment days before a country music award show. At a lavish promotional party, she overhears an argument between much touted, marginally talented Stella Love and crass starmaker John Hackett, host of the soiree, moments before Stella falls to her death from a balcony. Naturally Emily investigates, coming up with the usual: jealous backup singers and washed out ex-stars, along with an insecure, oft-ignored starmaker's wife. Present for walk-ons are real stars like Kenny Rodgers and Mel Tillis. Before the end of this fairly flat tale, readers may find themselves wishing for the quirkiness of writers, like Joan Hess or Sharyn McCrumb, who have plumbed country ways more spiritedly. Branson provides a terrific backdrop for a mystery; one hopes Buckstaff will do it justice next time around. (Aug.)