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DIARY TO DIE FOR, A by Mart Baldwin Vivisphere Publishing, February 2002 312 pages $16.00 ISBN: 1587760924

Blue Ridge is the scene for the reenactment of the Battle of Chancellorsville. Chief Hackett is confronted with problems of pilfering by the reenactors at the southern mansion, Highlands, which has been donated to the town as a historical museum; with a recurring search for a hidden fortune and a diary with an inscription by Robert E. Lee. Vivian, the town librarian , is found murdered in hidden closet. A 40-year old skeleton is found in the cellar. Hackett' best friend, Professor Art Taylor receives a letter from his wife who ran off seven years ago. She wants to return with their daughter.

Hackett must solve Vivian's murder; identify the skeleton; and give Art guidance while trying to cope with hs feelings for his young French teacher.

These stories are reminiscent of earlier mystery novels. Events flow smoothly without explicit violence, explicit sex or strong language. The reader identifies with the people and the location. There are diverse characters who recur through the stories with their personalities developing, and interacting with each other.

Chief Hackett is an engaging person with self-doubts, compassion, and an ability to deal with the problems which confront him despite the odds.

Reviewed by Barbara Buhrer, May 2002

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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)

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