Death of a Fantasy Life

A self-effacing, middle-aged linguist and an earthy stripper comprise the unconventional duo tracking a murderer in this witty mystery by Gilpin ( Is Anybody There? ), who once taught English to the Saudi Royal Air Force. When linguistics professor Anthony Ponton leaves Southhampton to search for his wayward nephew Eric in London, he finds himself in the seedy dream-world of Soho strip joints, where two ecdysiasts have been slain and others are in danger. Joining forces with the buxom stripper Sylvia, he uncovers several nasty secrets linked to another professor. Ponton's painstaking professorial approach and Sylvia's native intelligence (though ``virtually illiterate,'' she's no dope) combine to disentangle an intricate plot that is scrupulously constructed, although occasionally at odds with some of Gilpin's characterizations. Still, the pursuit is agreeable, and a stunningly unexpected revelation wraps things up in fine style. (May)