Dorothy Gilman (1923–2012) was the author of 14 Mrs. Pollifax novels, including The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax, the series debut; Mrs. Pollifax Pursued; Mrs. Pollifax and the Lion Killer; Mrs. Pollifax, Innocent Tourist; and Mrs. Pollifax Unveiled. She was also the author of many other novels, among them Thale’s Folly.
That dignified New Jersey grandmother with the wicked karate chop embarks on her 10th CIA assignment, after Mrs. Pollifax and the Whirling Dervish , in this sunny Sicilian adventure. Former colleague John Farrell, hired to crack a safe and lift a document signed by Julius Caesar (who ``launched his attack on Africa in 47 B.C. from the town of Lilybaeum'' in Sicily) sends an SOS while dodging a professional assassin whom he and Mrs. P. jailed some years ago. Soon she too is ducking bullets and the old pals are forced to hole up in the Villa Franca--part farm, part medieval fortress and full-time residence of young CIA agent Kate Rossiter's eccentric aunt. Ancient artifacts, hair-raising chases, art forgery, arms traffic, a nighttime assault on the villa, mysterious millionaires, spectacular scenery and unexpected romance are some of the ingredients simmering in the plot. Gilman's smooth storytelling and slyly comic tone make it easy for readers to overlook a somewhat untidy ending. (Oct.)
Emily Polifax is a grandmother, garden club fan, and a part-time CIA operative who manages to hold her own in her assignments. In this outing, she is sent to Sicily to help rescue Farrell, a former agent who was shot while attempting to steal a document bearing the signature of Julius Caesar. Polifax teams up with another agent, Kate Rossiter, who is vacationing in Sicily. Upon finding Farrell, they become embroiled in a scheme involving art forgers, secret cartels, and professional killers. This is a delightful romp, with the quick pacing and well-drawn characters that mark Gilman's series (e.g., Mrs. Polifax and the Golden Triangle , Audio Reviews, LJ 11/15/93). The narration by a full cast of readers is played for all its worth. Strongly recommended for all libraries.-- Susan B. Lamphier, Somerville P.L., Mass.
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