Blood Red, Snow White

Although this engrossing, suspenseful first novel from a husband-and-wife team of veteran journalists unfolds along predictable lines, various twists and a shocking conclusion make for a most satisfying read. Corporate attorney Alec Anton discovers a surprising link between his neighbor's missing 22-year-old son, whom he has been hired to help find, and clients of his currently being prosecuted for tax evasion; all have close ties to an investment banker who is a major Republican power broker. Meanwhile, Anton's lustful interest in the neighbor, Leland Hastings, leads him to become involved beyond the conventional attorney-client relationship. Eventually, the exposure of a massive Colombian drug-smuggling operation, complex money-laundering schemes and some grisly murders makes Anton realize that his career and indeed his very life have been placed on the line. As evidence points to banker Trumbull Oates, Anton finds himself with growing doubts about everyone from Leland's ex-husband to his own law partners (especially the attractive young associate who seduces him) and the federal prosector whose support he needs. Despite their failure to depict Leland as either sexy or vulnerable, the authors deliver, overall, a solid, well-developed tale of money, power and corruption. (Feb.)