Don't Leave Me This Way

Feminist scholar Loretta Lawson learns of a difficult former colleague's death in a car crash and finds some startling evidence after she pursues the case. The ``abrupt resolution, poorly prepared as well as unexpected, may disappoint,'' said PW. ``Yet Smith's narrative strengths are also in full evidence: Loretta . . . is literate, credible, likable and excellent company.'' (Nov.)