Easy Virtue

Over eight days in August, a Unitarian clergyman and a Reno showgirl work to solve an old murder in this latest overpopulated mystery by the writing team of Ronn and Janice Kaiser (Last Night in Rio). Showgirl Mary Margaret Duggan has hocked herself to the hilt in an attempt to exonerate her father, Jimmy, after he's convicted of a murder she's certain he didn't commit. Most of the cash she's borrowed has come from her nasty-tempered ex-husband who wants his money now--or else. When Unitarian minister, Dane Barrett, comes across new evidence that might help clear Jimmy, he and Mary Margaret become amateur sleuths, soon learning that someone had altered the police reports. To further complicate matters, Mary Margaret is falling in love with Dane, but fears that her less-than-perfect past will prevent them from sharing a future. Kaiser promises a lot and, at first, delivers much. Unfortunately, what starts as a fast-paced story runs out of steam by the end. (Dec.)