J. Alfred Prufrock Murders

Four residents of a seaside retirement complex in Southern California investigate the murder of a friend in this lively and entertaining mystery. A former librarian, ``Sweetie'' was neither sweet nor popular, but her sudden violent death inspires curiosity in the imposing breast of the well-to-do and imperious Caledonia. She, coy Angela, quiet Nan and the decorous Stella give up craft classes and bridge games to discover why Sweetie was killed. A nighttime foray into her apartment reveals she'd been blackmailing other residents of Camden-sur-Mer, many of whom turn out to have secrets they'd pay to keep hidden. A second murder ensues, and the detective in charge begs the ladies to leave the case to himto no avail. Relying on gossip, a growing taste for adventure and the considerable wisdom of their age, they finally reach the bittersweet solution to the mystery. Neither sentimental nor patronizing, this tale of geriatric adventure is as heartwarming as a glass of Caledonia's sherry. (June)