Title:
Flesh Tones
Author:
M.J. Rose
Published By:
Ballantine Books
ISBN:
0-345-45105-
Release Date:
July 2002
Format:
Print
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Genny Haviland is accused of murdering Slade Gabriel. He was a famous painter. Genny and Gabriel have a history together. They met when she was just 17 and he 37. They embarked on a torrid affair but Gabriel ended the relationship. Twenty years later, Genny stands trial for his death. She claims he asked for help to end his life but there is no proof. So the question to be answered is: was it a mercy killing or a murder?
This was a riveting book from the opening to the last paragraph. The author drew the reader in and kept the reader's attention. She has woven an intricate storyline that switches between scenes with ease. From the courtroom to the past and back to the present, the author moves her story effortlessly forward. The pacing, the dialogue and the characters combined to form an enthralling tale.
This is a story of the obsessive love between the two protagonists. Their lives were changed more than 20 years ago and Genny is still experiencing the after effects. The complex relationship between Gabriel and Genny is thoroughly explored. She had done things for him that most people would find unimaginable but she complied because of her love for him. She was a woman who was totally and completely under his spell. It is an emotionally wrenching story that will affect even the most stoic reader. This is the reviewer's first book by Ms. Rose but it will not be the last.
Reviewed by: Susan
