Magic, Malice and Murder, a mystery novella by Peter G. Engelman, is reviewed in the May 2004 issue of The Linking Ring. The Linking Ring is the monthly publication of the International Brotherhood of Magicians, an organization of over 16,000 members.
The stage was set and the Great Zaganinii was about to perform his death defying Tomb of Death escape. The famous Italian Master Illusionist's finale always received a standing ovation and he expected no less from the audience in the historical Firenze theatre. When the 1,000-pound wrecking ball dropped from the sky-high crane, there was no thought of a crazed killer out to spoil the act. Who in their right mind would want to end the life of such a popular magician and showman? Was it Sal, his trusted prop man, Luciano, the crane operator or perhaps one of his beautiful show assistants, Sophia or Maria? Then again, perhaps it was someone off the set, someone that held a grudge for the successful magician.
The story takes place in Florence, (Firenze) Italy in the heart of Tuscany country with all of its beautiful vinyards, rolling hills and golden sunsets. If you enjoy Whodunits, this book will be an enjoyable read. As a novella, you will appreciate the quick pace, the abundance of dialogue and absence of tedious description.
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