Delusion in Death

Set in 2060, the gripping 36th Eve Dallas novel (after Celebrity in Death) from bestseller Robb (the pseudonym of Nora Roberts) opens at On the Rocks, a bar on Manhattan’s Lower West Side, where the patrons, mostly “white-collared working stiffs,” are enjoying happy hour. Suddenly, everyone in the bar inexplicably turns on each other, and a bloodbath ensues. Lt. Eve Dallas of the New York Police and Security Department investigates, even though her husband, Roarke, is the owner of On the Rocks. Eve discovers a possible link to the apocalyptic Red Horse cult, which orchestrated attacks with airborne hallucinogens during the Urban Wars of the early 21st century. While Robb serves up twists and turns in ample portions, the main attraction is still the character of Eve, who will win over readers with her ability to persevere in seeking a killer while coping with her personal demons. Agent: Amy Berkower, Writers House. (Sept.)