Murders & Acquisitions: A Reuben Frost Mystery

Before retiring from his prestigious New York law practice, Reuben Frost was counsel to the Anderson Foods Corporation, a huge and profitable family-operated company. He and his wife Cynthia, a former ballerina, have remained friendly with Flemming Anderson, AFC chief-executive, so Reuben is not surprised when Flemming asks his advice on dealing with a hostile takeover bid. Shortly thereafter, Flemming is scalded to death in his hot tub, and then his daughter is mauled and killed by her dogs, events that spur the urbane ex-lawyer into investigative action. With suspects ranging from the corporate buy-out artist to assorted Anderson heirs, Reuben leads both New York and Connecticut police to the resolution, missing only a few of his customary afternoon naps in the process. While the plot is simplistic and full of holes, Reuben, who rides in limousines and dines on occasion at his private men's club, is a courtly and pleasant companion for an evening's read. Murphy also wrote Murder for Lunch and Murder Takes a Partner. (March)