• Evidence of Murder. Lisa Black. Morrow. 352 pages. $24.99.

In her second novel about Cleveland forensic investigator Theresa MacLean, Black constructs an involving plot that seems to have no clues. No matter how Theresa approaches her latest case, she cannot find any evidence that would reveal how a young woman died in the woods. Nothing suspicious was found near Jillian Perry's body, and forensics tests yield nothing.

A former escort with an adored 5-month-old baby, Jillian apparently had finally found happiness with Evan, her husband of three weeks. Evan and his business partner had just developed an innovative video game that was likely to bring them wealth -- and a bit of fame.

Jillian's case marks the first time Theresa has been able to focus on work since her fiance died more than eight months before during a bank robbery. A realistic approach to crime detection and a terrifying ending further elevate Evidence of Murder. Black keeps the action well balanced with the forensics aspects while also delivering a heart-wrenching look at grief.

Black, a pseudonym of author Elizabeth Becka (Trace Evidence), has found a renewed energy in her work with the name change and a new series. As she did in last year's Takeover,'' Black turns Evidence of Murder into Theresa's personal story while not losing sight of the larger crime swirling around the character.

Oline Cogdill reviewed this book for The Sun Sentinel.

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