Fairway to Heaven

by: Roberta Isleib

Published by: Berkley

Reviewed by Bob Pike CSP, CPAE-Speakers Hall of Fame

Cassie Burkette is a closet masochist--the only thing her shrink, Dr. Baxter hasn't diagnosed about her. Why else would she agree to play in a three-tour golf tournament at Pinehurst #2 with her father, who taught her golf and then abandoned her family--and her on-again, off-again love interest, PGA professional Mike Callahan, who is a narcissist who can't keep his eyes off other women?

This means that during the tournament, she'll be alternately smothered and abandoned by her stepmother, Maureen, who tries to dress like a woman Cassie's age, but can't pull it off and is jealous that Cassie solves murders as a sideline.

But wait, there's more. The circus hasn't started yet. While the tournament is going on, Cassie agrees to be maid of honor in a wedding with Callahan as best man. Cassie introduced another PGA tour player, Rick Justice to Jeannine Peters, and the wedding has been set to coincide with the tournament.

All this might be manageable, if Dan Peters, father of the bride, weren't a retired marine colonel involved in shady dealings who will do anything to win-- in business or in life.

According to Pinehurst's Council Chair, Junior Mammele. Peters is going to ruin the entrance to Pinehurst by building a big strip mall. Things are looking up for Junior when a hit and run occurs by the property, slowing the development. But then Junior is shot by a sniper at Jeannine's bridal shower and dies--and Dan disappears.

How well will Cassie survive the golf tournament, especially with one of her step brothers on her bag? How will she finally deal with Mike Callahan, who has the sensitivity of a post? Will Jeannine and Rick make it to the altar? Who was responsible for the two murders and for drugging Cassie's drink? Was Dan involved in any of the murders and will he reappear? These and five other interesting questions will keep both golfers and mystery lovers alike turning each page.

Armchair Interviews says: Mystery lovers and golfers both will enjoy Roberta Isleib's golf mysteries. They are page turners.