The Garden of Eden - Faye Kellerman

The Garden of Eden and Other Criminal Delights
Faye Kellerman
Warner Books

Mystery – Short Fiction

Faye Kellerman is probably best known for her series of mystery novels featuring Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus. Fans will be happy to know that the author wrote two brand-new stories for the pair, specifically for this collection: “Garden of Eden” and “Open House.” For readers unfamiliar with these characters, these stories provide an excellent introduction. For longtime readers, they’re welcome additions to the series.

Possibly the most interesting stories are those that the author wrote in collaboration with her children. “Luck of the Draw,” which deals with how even a close family can be destroying by a sudden influx of wealth, was written with her teenaged daughters. The story written with her adult son, “Mummy and Jack” is much darker in tone, but no less interesting. Rounding out the collection are two autobiographical essays by the author.

Not just for fans of her previous work, this collection has something for everyone. With seventeen short stories and essays, every mystery lover will find something to like. If you’re more of a fan of full-length novels, as I am, you’ll be glad to know that each of these stories is a satisfying piece of fiction. And I enjoyed the little introductions to each piece provided by the author, providing details about how each story came about, or what it means to the author.

Rating: 8
August 2006
ISBN# 0-446-53039-5 (hardcover)