Nip, Tuck, Dead
Pauline Sokol Mystery series #5
by Lori Avocato
Ex-nurse Pauline Sokol has become an investigator for Scarpello & Tonelli Insurance Agency. Her boss, Fabio,
informs her that her newest case involves insurance frauds at a posh plastic surgery clinic, Highcliff Manor,
located in Newport, Rhode Island. Uncertain how to proceed, Pauline discusses the case with her two roommates,
Goldie and his partner, Miles, and they devise a plan for Pauline to infiltrate the center: Goldie will have a
nose job and Pauline will pose as his private nurse.
Her investigation of possible fraud begins with Pauline snooping into computers and files, while posing as
Goldie’s nurse. While Goldie gets pampered at Highcliff Manor, Pauline stays at the Samuel Freeman Lodge,
reputedly haunted by Sam’s ghost. Then Pauline’s nemesis, Jagger, arrives at the lodge. He’s a handsome devil -
one Pauline has the hots for but would never let him know. Pauline suspects Jagger has arrived to keep an eye on
her, but the lodge keeper assures her that Jagger is a frequent guest.
Pauline eventually learns about the "frequent flyers" - people who have had several follow-up surgeries for
which insurance companies would normally refuse payment. Pauline’s certain that she’s on to a fraud, and becomes
determined to learn the truth behind the continuing murders, little realizing the dangers that await her.
Lori Avocato’s Nip, Tuck, Dead is a delightful mystery, loaded with zany characters and an intriguing
plot. Pauline, the heroine, gets into circumstances that place her in danger, yet she manages to extricate
herself with the help of her friends. Jagger is just about as sexy as a man can get and Pauline’s attempts to
stay aloof while investigating her latest case are often hilarious. Top that off with wonderful characters like
Goldie, Miles and Pauline’s family, and a delightful, funny and intriguing mystery results. This is the first
book I’ve read in Lori Avocato’s "Pauline Sokol Mystery" series, but it certainly won’t be the last. |
The Reviewer |
Linda Morelli |
Reviewed 2007 |
NOTE: Reviewer Linda
Morelli is the award-winning author of Lani's Challenge, Shadow of Doubt and
Fiery Surrender. She is also an Associate Editor for Port Town Publishing and Historical
Editor for Gotta Write Network Online. |
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