Thread of Evidence

DCI Neil Paget returns for another smoothly executed British police procedural, Canadian writer Smith's fourth (following Candles for the Dead). Successful contractor James Bolen, after a public argument with his brother Harry over a new deal that's brewing, is found stabbed to death in a posh hotel room in Broadminster. Although the killer goes to some lengths to make it look like James had roughed up a prostitute who then turned on him with a knife, the police see through the clumsy scheme and bear down on the victim's family and business associates. Paget soon discovers that James had recently assaulted his wife and angered his brother by pushing a business deal that could have ruined the firm but satisfied James's thirst for vengeance on a fellow contractor and relative. A second murder, that of a prostitute who might have known someone involved in the case, complicates matters. Although it becomes more difficult to sort out the truth as Paget and his team continue to investigate, the murderer eventually overreaches himself. Fans of the traditional British police detective mystery will find much to enjoy here. Neil Paget is an engaging, sympathetic character, and the narrative's intricate twists make for a lively read. (Mar. 20) FYI: Smith's first DCI Paget novel, 1996's Fatal Flaw, was shortlisted for an Arthur Ellis Award.