Frames - (Valentino Mysteries) by Loren D Estleman (Paperback)

About the Book

Estleman has scripted yet another wacky comedic mystery that begs to become a feature film. His snappy dialog, feisty characters, Hollywood lore, and gentle romance make this his funniest to date.--"Library Journal."

Book Synopsis

Enter Valentino, a mild-mannered UCLA film archivist. In the surreal world of Hollywood filmdom, truth is often stranger than celluloid fiction. When Valentino buys a decrepit movie palace and uncovers a skeleton in the secret Prohibition basement, he's not really surprised. But he's staggered by a second discovery: long-lost, priceless reels of film: Erich von Stroheim's infamous Greed.

The LAPD wants to take the reels as evidence, jeopardizing the precious old film. If Valentino wants to save his find, he has only one choice: solve the murder within 72 hours with the help of his mentor, the noted film scholar Broadhead, and Fanta, a feisty if slightly flaky young law student.

Between a budding romance with a beautiful forensics investigator and visions of Von Stroheim's ghost, Valentino's madcap race to save the flick is as fast and frenetic as a classic screwball comedy. A quirky cast of characters, smart dialogue and a touch of romance make Frames Estleman's most engaging and accessible novel to date.

Review Quotes

"Estleman marvelously mixes movies and mayhem in a way sure to please film buffs and mystery fans alike. Frames is another winner from a master." --John Jakes, New York Times bestselling author

"Estleman has laid claim to a fresh new franchise and the turf is all his. My hat's off to him." --Sue Grafton, New York Times bestselling author

About the Author

LOREN D. ESTLEMAN has written more than sixty novels, including American Detective, The Adventures of Johnny Vermillion, and Nicotine Kiss. His work has earned him four Shamus Awards, five Golden Spur Awards, and three Western Heritage Awards. He lives in Michigan with his wife, author Deborah Morgan.