One-line summary: “M is for Malice” is a gripping detective novel that follows private investigator Kinsey Millhone as she unravels a complex web of deceit and murder in her search for a missing person.

The Case of the Missing Mother

In “M is for Malice,” author Sue Grafton takes readers on another thrilling adventure with her beloved protagonist, Kinsey Millhone. This time, Kinsey is hired by a wealthy businessman named Lawrence Fife to locate his ex-wife, Nikki Fife. Lawrence claims that Nikki disappeared with their young daughter, Reba, and he wants Kinsey to find them so he can regain custody of Reba. As Kinsey delves into the case, she quickly realizes that there is more to this missing person investigation than meets the eye.

A Web of Deceit

As Kinsey digs deeper into Nikki Fife’s past, she uncovers a tangled web of deceit and betrayal. She discovers that Nikki was involved in a complex insurance fraud scheme with several other individuals, including her new husband, a con artist named Dante. Kinsey’s investigation leads her to various locations, from seedy motels to luxurious mansions, as she follows the trail of clues left behind by Nikki and her accomplices.

A Race Against Time

With each step closer to finding Nikki and Reba, Kinsey becomes entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. She faces threats and attempts on her life, indicating that someone does not want her to uncover the truth. As the stakes rise, Kinsey must rely on her wit, resourcefulness, and determination to outsmart her adversaries and bring justice to those involved in the disappearance of Nikki Fife.

Throughout the book, Grafton masterfully weaves together multiple storylines and introduces a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motives. Kinsey’s sharp wit and tenacity make her a compelling protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for her as she navigates the treacherous world of deceit and murder.

• Kinsey Millhone is a resilient and resourceful private investigator.
• The case of the missing mother uncovers a complex web of deceit and betrayal.
• The investigation leads Kinsey to dangerous encounters and attempts on her life.
• The truth behind Nikki Fife’s disappearance reveals a shocking twist.

As the story reaches its climax, Grafton delivers a shocking twist that will leave readers on the edge of their seats. The truth behind Nikki Fife’s disappearance is revealed, exposing the extent of the deception and manipulation at play. Kinsey’s relentless pursuit of justice ultimately leads to a satisfying resolution, but not without personal sacrifices and emotional turmoil.

In “M is for Malice,” Sue Grafton once again proves her mastery of the detective genre, crafting a suspenseful and intricately plotted novel that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its engaging characters, clever twists, and fast-paced narrative, this book is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone looking for a thrilling and satisfying mystery.

“The truth is, I’m not much of a detective. I don’t solve crimes. I uncover them.”