THE LADY WEPT ALONE
By
Spinster-sleuth yarn, though Matilda's activities are mainly to keep the local investigator, Tim, at more than arm's length from those she loves. Closely knit friends and families complicate three murders, and Matilda, after a terrific binge with Tim, comes clean and sees the real criminal given a way out. Nice atmosphere and writing. Mystery-novel narrative rather than straight whodunit. Crime club dual selection, along with Rufus King's Holiday Homicide (page 108).