LOVE IS A RACKET


John Ridley
Alfred A. Knopf, INC.
ISBN:0-375-40142-3
General Fiction
Los Angeles, present time


Jeffy Kittridge, a 37-year old ex-script writer, now a smalltime con-man, is wondering how he will pay back the $15,000 he owes the loan shark. He keeps on running into Moma, a young street girl whom he finds attractive. While thinking about Moma, Jeffy comes up with another scam which involves her. If the plan works, it will give them both more than enough money to pay off the loan and have something left over for themselves.

Moma is a lost soul of the streets until Jeffy takes her in. The scam Jeffy unveils to her sounds good. Moma can't resist thinking of all the things she could do with her share of the money. She knows Jeffy is attracted to her, but she is not sure of her feelings toward him. Will Moma and Jeffy pull off this scam, then go their separate ways?

The narration of LOVE IS A RACKET is excellent. It reminds you of the old private eye narrating his story, and here Jeffy is telling the story and it works beautifully. John Ridley has created a masterpiece. The unique characters in this tale blend well to create a smooth plot. Mr. Ridley's storytelling and descriptions make LOVE IS A RACKET a must read for anyone who enjoys rich suspense with a touch of romance.



Reviewed by Cliff Leach

February, 01

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