4 out of 4 stars
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Lily Torrence, by Fred Andersen, is a captivating murder mystery in the classic Hollywood noir style. The story is told by Lyman Wilbur, a meek, mousey writer of gritty detective novels. His latest book is to be made into a movie at Colosseum Studios, and he is hired to be an assistant screenwriter. Meeting the big Hollywood stars has been his dream, but he soon learns everyone is concealing secrets, affairs, and indiscretions. When a shooting occurs, there are many suspects. Everyone seems to hate the victim and have a reason to wish him dead. Lyman decides to initiate his own investigation. Can Lyman uncover the mystery without getting himself killed?
Author Fred Andersen has created a bevy of memorable characters. They include the Hollywood starlet with the career-ending secret, the unfaithful playboy screenwriter, the chorus girl who would do anything to get that part, and the corrupt agent with ties to the Mafia. The main character, Lyman Wilbur, is very well-developed and sympathetic. He starts the story as a mild man, a loving husband, and a hard-working writer. Surrounded by the Hollywood crowd, he starts to lose himself, giving in to the temptations on the movie set. Lyman is a realistic character, complete with both good and bad qualities.
The title character, Lily Torrence, is shown on the book cover admiring herself in the mirror. She is a girl from the streets and was born Lily Torres. She dyes her hair blond and moves to Los Angeles. People have constantly told her she was beautiful, and she is determined to use her looks to become a star. She works hard as a dancer in the chorus and dreams of making it big. She is willing to use anyone and do almost anything to get that break. Will her desire for fame get her into trouble?
The world of Hollywood and Los Angeles in the 1940s is described effectively in this story. You feel as if you have gone back in time. The clothing and cars are described in detail. The author is, moreover, a talented wordsmith. He used some humorous expressions popular at that time, such as “hobbledehoy” which means an awkward youth and “snoozling” which means to cuddle. This book is filled with mystery, intrigue and a touch of humor. I was impressed with the writer’s style and character development. I enjoyed discovering the character’s secrets and following the numerous twists of the story.
Fans of mystery and detective novels will love this one. Also, readers who enjoy Hollywood glamour and the noir style are in for a treat. This book contains several brief sexual scenes, including rape and a homosexual encounter. It additionally has some intense profanity. This book should be for adults only. It was very well-edited, and I found only a few misspellings that in no way hindered my enjoyment. I am giving Lily Torrence, by Fred Andersen, 4 out of 4 stars. This is an excellent book, and I heartily recommend it.
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Lily Torrence
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