This 50th book in the series is still wonderful to read. As I opened this book I wondered if I would still enjoy it the way I had the 49 before it. Yes, I did!

Dallas and her offsider and protegee, Delia Peadbody, are called to a death of Dr Abner Kent, a paediatrician. It is quickly apparent that he has been killed by a toxic gas sent through the parcel post. Why anyone would want to kill such a well loved and popular man is a mystery. Dallas and Peabody develop several theories until a second murder puts them on the right track. Long term marriages become a vital clue and theme for Dallas to reflect upon.

I'm not sure if the murder mystery or the development of Dallas' relationships is now the primary theme. They are perhaps equally important to long term fans. Lieutenant Eve Dallas of the NYPSD is a cop to the bone. After an abusive and lonely childhood, her drive to be a police officer was the motivation to survive. She didn't thrive, however, until after meeting Rourke, her now husband, multibillionaire and (according to Dallas) able to buy a small planet. Rourke also came from an abusive background but he took a more illicit road out. The conflict caused by their very different paths has mostly been resolved. The two of them have been married a few years now and are working on their own Rules of Marriage.

Her relationship with Peabody is a strong theme in this book. It is a delight to read and their banter had me laughing out loud. This contrasts beautifully with the empathic and humane way they combine to manage the grief of the victims' families.

Altogether a lovely read and highly recommended. Great for long term fans or newcomers.