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Dead Giveaway   By: (1927-1987)

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Randall Garrett's "Dead Giveaway" is a captivating murder mystery that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. Set in a small, sleepy town in the 1950s, the story follows amateur detective Oliver Tucker as he tries to unravel a puzzling crime.

Right from the start, Garrett creates a gripping atmosphere that transports readers back in time. The attention to detail in the setting is commendable, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world of 1950s America. The quaint streets, old-fashioned diners, and retro fashion choices help to create an authentic backdrop for the mystery.

The characters in "Dead Giveaway" are wonderfully developed and diverse, each with their own distinct personalities. Oliver Tucker, the main protagonist, is a relatable and sympathetic character who readers can easily root for. His determination and wit make him a worthy detective, despite his lack of professional experience. Other supporting characters, such as the quirky investigative journalist Maggie Templeton and the enigmatic police officer Henry Lawson, add depth and intrigue to the story.

The plot of "Dead Giveaway" is expertly crafted, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. The mystery itself is engaging, with the clues being skillfully scattered throughout the narrative to generate suspense and intrigue. Garrett's meticulous attention to detail ensures that every piece of the puzzle fits together seamlessly, leaving no loose ends or plot holes.

One of the strengths of "Dead Giveaway" lies in Garrett's writing style. The prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. The dialogue is witty and realistic, adding authenticity to the characters and their interactions. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of tension interspersed with quieter, introspective scenes that allow the reader to delve deeper into the minds of the characters.

However, one minor drawback of the book is the occasional excessive use of exposition. At times, the explanations and descriptions can become a little heavy-handed, delaying the progression of the plot. Nevertheless, this does not significantly hinder the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, "Dead Giveaway" is a compelling murder mystery that will captivate lovers of the genre. With its realistic setting, well-developed characters, and intricately woven plot, Randall Garrett delivers an engaging story that will keep readers eagerly turning the pages. Whether you're a fan of classic detective fiction or simply enjoy a good mystery, this book is a dead giveaway for a thrilling and satisfying read.

First Page:

DEAD GIVEAWAY

BY RANDALL GARRETT

Illustrated by Martinez

[Transcriber's note: This etext was produced from Astounding Science Fiction August 1959. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]

Logic's a wonderful thing; by logical analysis, one can determine the necessary reason for the existence of a dead city of a very high order on an utterly useless planet. Obviously a shipping transfer point! Necessarily...

"Mendez?" said the young man in the blue and green tartan jacket. "Why, yes ... sure I've heard of it. Why?"

The clerk behind the desk looked again at the information screen. "That's the destination we have on file for Scholar Duckworth, Mr. Turnbull. That was six months ago." He looked up from the screen, waiting to see if Turnbull had any more questions.

Turnbull tapped his teeth with a thumbnail for a couple of seconds, then shrugged slightly. "Any address given for him?"

"Yes, sir. The Hotel Byron, Landing City, Mendez."

Turnbull nodded. "How much is the fare to Mendez?"

The clerk thumbed a button which wiped the information screen clean, then replaced it with another list, which flowed upward for a few seconds, then stopped. "Seven hundred and eighty five fifty, sir," said the clerk. "Shall I make you out a ticket?"

Turnbull hesitated... Continue reading book >>




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