nNew York crime-fiction librarian--and reluctant amateur sleuth--Ray Ambler investigates a puzzling murder that's too close to home for comfort. n nRaymond Ambler, crime-fiction curator at New York City's prestigious 42nd Street Library, doesn't consider it a big deal when he misses a call from visiting professor Robin Cartwright . . . until she turns up dead in a hotel room. n nWho killed the quiet academic, and why? Ambler feels duty-bound to find the culprit, and not just because the police half-suspect he's guilty of the crime. It wasn't just Professor Cartwright's phone call he missed, but any sign that she was in danger. n nRobin was researching accidental deaths she believed were murders--could her work have got her killed?

Soon Ambler's knee-deep in suspects, including a shady ex-husband, a slippery pastor, and several of his own colleagues. But the clock is ticking. If he doesn't catch a ruthless killer soon, it won't just be his own life in danger, but those of his partner and newborn child. n nThe 42nd Street Library mystery series blends traditional mystery with a hint of noir, and is a great pick for fans of quintessential New York writers like Ed McBain and S.

J. Rozan, along with those who enjoy traditional amateur sleuths and fair-play puzzles.n