Connie Constantine, the mother, has a notion that Holly has to be a perfect 10 to make it in the world, brings her daughter-foot-dragging and harping all the way--to Paradise Plaza, only to have her kidnapped the next morning. Paradise Plaza is a very posh spa for the rich and famous tucked away in the hills around Santa Barbara.

Paradise Lost is an intriguing, tightly-wound story of two young men who think the perfect crime can be forced to happen, and the police force of the California beach town along with the FBI who are trying to keep it from happening. None succeeds, and it is only by chance and a freak accident that the plan is foiled. Skill and temperament all play an important part in the mishaps and the outcome.

This story is very well written and delves into the psychological makeup of those high powered, highly intellectual, highly motivated people who decide on a course of action without looking deeply into the prospective outcome. This book is insightful, gutsy, and nerve-wracking storytelling at its very best. Taffy Cannon comes on strong with the suspense, and carries it well, straight to the end. A very good read for young and old and those who enjoy a bit of spice about the lives of the rich and famous.