Payback by Fern Michaels

Even though I'm reading this series of books, I will confess to being mystified with regards to their popularity! This is the second in the series, and so far both books have shown a lack of plot, imagination and writing. The plot of the book is so absurd, it gives almost superhuman powers to aging spies and governments, and endless humanity and kindness to the heroine, the wealthy heiress. The writing is sort of , southern belle meets gentile handsome gentleman, lots of trite romantic phrases. One can almost imagine some of the female characters occasionally waving their pretty hands over their buxom chests, swooning and saying "Well, Ah declare......" Of course the author attempts to present her ladies as strong, tough as nails women of today, but the effort just falls sort of flat in the middle of all the ruckus about ball gowns, makeup and jewels.

As I said, I don't have a clue why I read this book or why I'll probably read the next in the series. One thing really good about it though, if you're prepping for a colonoscopy and really can't find yourself able to concentrate on anything of substance, this book is the perfect one to take into the bathroom with you. Ridiculous entertainment, but entertainment nonetheless!

(Posted on LibraryThing March 22, 2008)