Guest of a Sinner

Recovering his characteristic wit after the offputting Polite Sex , Wilcox presents a charming novel of life in the Big Apple. The narrative follows the elaborate courtship dance of Eric Thorsen, a 40-ish pianist, and Wanda Skopinski, a clerical worker, who meet in church but actually come together in the ultimate Manhattan venture--the pursuit of a rent-controlled apartment. Barging in and out of their private affair are an exasperating but lovable crew of friends, family and neighbors: Eric's sister, Kaye, and father, Lamar; Wanda's off-and-on boyfriend, Arnold; her nosey older friend, Mrs. Fogarty; and Mrs. Merton, a neighbor with 22 cats. The device of musical real estate gives readers both a tour of the city and insight into the interactions of these utterly convincing characters. Scattered throughout are hilarious moments: Eric covering his rear end with a Laura Ashley catalogue so his 50-year-old sister won't see him naked; Wanda typing a company memo demanding that ``no yogurt, Gummy bears, or bananas to be consumed at desks.'' The late intrusion of Wanda's crazy uncle, Joe, into the story line is a puzzling, but minor, slip in Wilcox's control of the narrative. Overall, this is an endearing tale of ordinary, bumbling New Yorkers as they deal with the fascinations and annoyances of both the big city and their loved ones. (Apr.)