Editorial Content for The Sleeping Beauty Killer: An Under Suspicion Novel
Contributors
Reviewer (text)
Although she has served 15 years in prison for killing her fiancé, Casey Carter continues to proclaim her innocence. Can she convince Laurie Moran to make her the subject of “Under Suspicion,” the popular TV show that has successfully solved several cold cases?
While Laurie is eager to select the subject for her next episode of “Under Suspicion,” Casey does not seem to meet the criteria that the program had established. Hers is not a cold case. She was tried and convicted of murder. Yet, Laurie considers that the format might work to expose the real killer --- that is, if Casey is telling the truth.
If the show could interview people who were close to the victim and get them to remember things about the crime, it could eventually lead to discovering the real murderer. Despite the fact that even her own mother doubts her innocence, Casey insists on going forward with the investigation. Pressed by her boss to get the show into production, Laurie finally agrees.
"The climax comes quickly, and the chapters get shorter and shorter, so the reader feels a sense of urgency while turning the pages --- a very effective technique."
As Laurie begins to investigate, she discovers that Casey's cousin and best friend, Angela, has been the only one who stood by her through the trial and while she was in prison. Angela believed in Casey even though much evidence stacked up against her --- the pills she claimed were used to drug her were found in her purse; there was gunshot residue on her hands; she was known to have a volatile temper; her fiance's family was trying to break them up. And she claimed to have slept through the entire event, gunshots and all.
Although Laurie continues to uncover new evidence during her investigation of the people involved with Casey and Hunter Raleigh III prior to his murder, we still don't know if there is any other viable suspect. The facts that convicted her have not changed. But, as often happens, someone gets very nervous because of all the questions and digging into past events, and the killer makes a serious mistake that exposes him or her.
The climax comes quickly, and the chapters get shorter and shorter, so the reader feels a sense of urgency while turning the pages --- a very effective technique. Whenever a killer is cornered, desperation can lead to danger for everyone involved. Fortunately, we can expect a good solid ending from one of our favorite writing teams.
Those who have read the previous two books in the series, THE CINDERELLA MURDER and ALL DRESSED IN WHITE, may be disappointed to find that Alex Buckley, criminal defense lawyer and host of “Under Suspicion,” is missing in this story. He said that he needed a break from the show. In reality, his feelings for Laurie were becoming stronger, but she was still not over losing her husband Greg and did not return his interest. I missed his charming character this time around.
Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke complement one another very well. Clark is the bestselling author of 35 suspense novels and numerous other books. Burke, a former prosecutor, has written 11 novels and currently teaches criminal law. Together they weave a gripping tale that displays the unique skills of each.
Teaser
Casey Carter was convicted of murdering her fiancé, famed philanthropist Hunter Raleigh III, 15 years ago. And Casey claims she’s innocent. Although she was charged and served out her sentence in prison, she is still living “under suspicion.” Her story attracts the attention of Laurie Moran and the “Under Suspicion” news team. It’s Casey’s last chance to finally clear her name, and Laurie pledges to exonerate her. With Alex Buckley taking a break from the show, “Under Suspicion” introduces a new on-air host named Ryan Nichols, who has no problems with steering --- and stealing --- the show, and even tries to stop Laurie from taking on Casey’s case because he’s so certain she’s guilty.
Promo
Casey Carter was convicted of murdering her fiancé, famed philanthropist Hunter Raleigh III, 15 years ago. And Casey claims she’s innocent. Although she was charged and served out her sentence in prison, she is still living “under suspicion.” Her story attracts the attention of Laurie Moran and the “Under Suspicion” news team. It’s Casey’s last chance to finally clear her name, and Laurie pledges to exonerate her. With Alex Buckley taking a break from the show, “Under Suspicion” introduces a new on-air host named Ryan Nichols, who has no problems with steering --- and stealing --- the show, and even tries to stop Laurie from taking on Casey’s case because he’s so certain she’s guilty.
About the Book
The third thrilling installment in the bestselling Under Suspicion series from #1 New York Times bestselling author and “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke --- television producer Laurie Moran puts everything on the line to help a woman she thinks was wrongfully convicted of murder.
Casey Carter was convicted of murdering her fiancé --- famed philanthropist Hunter Raleigh III --- 15 years ago. And Casey claims --- has always claimed --- she’s innocent. Although she was charged and served out her sentence in prison, she is still living “under suspicion.” She hears whispers at the grocery store. She can’t get a job. Even her own mother treats her like she’s guilty. Her story attracts the attention of Laurie Moran and the "Under Suspicion" news team --- it’s Casey’s last chance to finally clear her name, and Laurie pledges to exonerate her.
With Alex Buckley taking a break from the show --- cooling his potential romance with Laurie --- "Under Suspicion" introduces a new on-air host named Ryan Nichols, a young legal whiz with a Harvard Law degree, Supreme Court clerkship, experience as a federal prosecutor, and regular stints on the cable news circuit. He’s got a big reputation and the attitude to match it. Ryan has no problems with steering --- and stealing --- the show, and even tries to stop Laurie from taking on Casey’s case because he’s so certain she’s guilty.
An egomaniacal new co-host, a relentless gossip columnist who seems to have all the dirt (and a surprising informant) and Casey’s longstanding bad reputation: Laurie must face this and more to do what she believes is right, to once and for all prove Casey’s innocence --- that is, if she’s innocent…THE SLEEPING BEAUTY KILLER will keep you guessing until the very end.
Audiobook available, read by Jan Maxwell
