READING MYSTERIES GREAT WAY TO BEAT SUMMER HEAT

A chilling mystery is a great way to take the mind off a hot, muggy summer night. Here are a few from Jackson Public Library's extensive collection of suspense novels.

"In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner," by Elizabeth George, has everything to recommend it: a fine cast, several of whom could have a motive for murder, a terrific setting, complete with spooky moors and ruined castles, and a plot that keeps readers guessing to the last. The fact that there is lots of tension between investigating officers adds to the interest.

Few women want to admit seriously that they have, on occasion, entertained murderous thoughts toward their spouses, but it is an absolute necessity for membership in the Widows Club. This is, according to Hyacinth and Primrose Tramwell of Flowers Detecting Agency, a very efficient and effective organization assisting women who prefer widowhood to divorce. Contact is made through ads in the "personal" column, and the fatal wheels are set in motion. The identity of the founder-organizer will come as a great surprise to readers of "The Widows Club," by Dorothy Cannell.

Tony Hillerman is a talented writer whose books can amuse, enlighten, and scare, all in the same volume. His popular mysteries are set on the Navajo Reservation, and have as heroes, Navajo policemen Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee. Hillerman's writings have brought him many awards including the Navajo Tribe's Special Friend Award, for his accurate portrayal of their lives, customs, and heritage. There's a shelf full of enjoyable reading waiting for you at the Jackson Public Library.

P.D. James' background has included some police work which must be a great help in creating such authentic mysteries. "Devices and Desires" is one of James' mysteries that has been made into a great PBS mini-series. As usual, the book is even better than the movie. The ending alone has enough plot and action for a complete story.

These are just a small sampling of the absorbing reading to be found at Jackson Public Library.