‘T is for Trespass’ by Sue Grafton

Published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons. December 2007

ISBN: Hardback 978-0-399-15448-5

After 19 alphabet topics, coming up with a “T” seems simple: “Trespass.”  However in this 20th Kinsey Millhone mystery, the theme is less about trespass and more about identity theft, elder abuse, murder and pedophilia.  The novel centers on Kinsey and Henry’s 89-yeaar-old neighbor, Gus Vronsky, who falls and dislocates his shoulder.  Before the doctor would agree to release him from the hospital, some arrangement has to be made for providing home care for him.

Enter a woman predator whose credentials—checked by Kinsey—seem too good to be true.  She is hired to take care of Gus.  Previously, we soon learn, she has stolen from people she has nursed, and even murdered one patient.  The race is on—can Kinsey and Henry save Gus?

Meanwhile Kinsey goes about her business as a PI, finding witnesses to an auto accident, serving papers and performing similar functions.  One witness is a convicted pedophile who served 12 years in prison and is reluctant to give a deposition.  She has to find him time and again in a side story having nothing to do with the main thrust of the novel.

“T” is very much in keeping with the series.  Kinsey remains the poor-eating, whimsical character.  And she is the one guilty o trespassing—breaking into Gus’ home, stealing his bank- and check books—albeit in an effort to save him.  Now we wonder what “U’ will bring.

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Theodore Feit