The book is written as a series of small stories that blend into one. Each visitor to the brownstone represents a story that is told simply and quickly. Along the way we grow fond of Madame Karitska, who has a fascinating past as a countess, a wealthy diamond merchant’s wife, a Kabul refugee and now, an impoverished widow. Dotting her current life are a cheerful police detective, his psychic fiancée, a reformed jewel thief and her artist-in-the-attic landlord. All interesting people.

The book really moves along and can be read in one sitting. Devotees of Mrs. Pollifax will not be disappointed by Gilman’s change of pace. This book is practically a cozy with its small circle of friends and low violence manner. If you are looking for a vacation book or something appropriate for an older reader or who is recovering from an illness, you could not go wrong with this entertaining book.

--Diane Gotfryd