What do You think about An Image Of Death (2004)?
I was given this book for an honest review and since it was my first read by author Libby Hellmann I looked forward to it. I love mystery thrillers and this was right on target.It takes place in Chicago but goes back and forth to past times in the Soviet Union. The main character video producer, Ellie Foreman, receives a mysterious video which appears to have a murder on it. Even after she turns in over to the police she cannot help but dig into what it all is about. There are many twist and turns in the story that keep you wanting to read from murder, prostitution, money laundering and political corruption.All the characters and scenery were well developed and written.I would highly recommend this for those who like mystery thriller books.
—Barbara
Ellie Foreman is an engaging protagonist in Libby Fischer Hellman's book book Image of Death. She is old enough to have some life experiences and smarts, but young enough to still be adventurous and ready to try new things. As a videographer, she has access to people and events that most people don't have. This plot device is handy to carry forward the action of the novel and bring it all together at the end. At times, though, this plot device may be a little too handy in that the coincidences seem a little contrived. Even so, Hellman does well in developing her characters, especially the Eastern Europeans left adrift after the break-up of the USSR. She also has a good sense of place for the settings of this book. The book was a good, fast read with a satisfying mystery at its heart.
—Diane
Ellie Forman is a videographer who receives an unexpected video in the mail. This is not an ordinary video ... this one shows the murder of a young woman. Being the inquisitive sort, she decides to investigate herself, especially as the police have warned her to keep her nose out of it. There are back stories which involve Russia, greed and corruption.The book is an easy read. Characters are well defined. It started out a little slow for me (personal taste) but was soon humming right along. This is a few steps up from a 'cozy' and the more I read, the more I really got into it. I almost feel a little lost as I started with the 3rd book in the series. I will definitely go back and start at the beginning. I think Ellie Forman leads a very interesting life.The author very graciously sent me the ebook to read and review in exchange for my honest opinion.
—Linda Strong
