Perhaps the grumbling has sensitized me, nonetheless, because I found myself slightly less amused by our heroine’s point-of-view this time around in "O" is for Outlaw. For example, early in the story Kinsey reiterates her respect for the “law” and her disregard for the “penal code.” One might consider that the “penal code” is the law, but apparently Kinsey marches to a higher, less quantifiable code of behavior.

It is this convoluted code of honor that propels Kinsey through a doggie door in chapter two in search of information about her first husband, whom she may have dumped unjustly fifteen years previously, and thus set on a long downhill slide. In an effort to make amends for her error, she searches for the person who has gunned down her wayward ex, and in the process enlightens us about this previously unknown aspect of her early years. It’s all interesting and downright hilarious in places, but I lost my interest and amusement at the end of the story with one of the most goofy climaxes I’ve ever read.

So, it was fun seein’ Kinsey again. Henry’s getting a tooth capped. Rosie and Henry’s brother are fine. Cuckold Jonah Robb is eagerly awaiting the birth of his wife’s child. Mickey, Kinsey’s first ex, is quite a piece of work.

Grafton can still write a clear sentence, and set up a wonderful scene. Maybe my dissatisfaction is related to the author’s note at the beginning of the book where Grafton explains why Kinsey is caught in a time warp. Maybe the problem is I’m getting older, but Kinsey isn’t -- just plain old sour grapes.

--Lee Gilmore