Diamond Solitaire (1992)

The plot was full of holes, and the characters did not behave naturally. The best part was about autism, especially how loving, hopeful adults want to believe that their child's condition is anything but autism.

What disappointed me most about this book was that Kirkus rated it so highly (a starred review). For years Kirkus has been my litmus test for books. Other reviewers can be easily impressed, but Kirkus is a tough customer. I hope this instance was just an anomaly. ( )

Although this book contains the many elements that make Lovesey such a favourite of mine, I felt that it was diminished by its plethora of locations. It remains, however, a fine solid mystery novel. ( )

This mystery seems to depart from Lovesey's standard fare set in Bath. Peter Diamond, ex-Superintendent (I haven't read that one yet), takes an interest in a non-communicative Japanese girl found alone at Harrod's who seems to have no place, mirroring his own flailings at this point in his life. Great atmosphere and description of settings as diverse as a sumo wrestler and his dressing room to a school for emotionally disturbed children! ( )