Publisher's Weekly
The lines by Ogden Nash--''If called by a panther, / Don't anther''--aptly kick off this story, narrated by a PI who maintains his comic-ironic tone even in the face of danger. Albert Samson has reluctantly decided to promote his services in TV ads that label him a ''go-for-it'' detective. Meanwhile Indianapolis newscasters scream about ''The Scum Front,'' a band of environmentalists holding the city hostage with bomb threats. On the trail of a woman who removes a bomb from its hiding place, Samson is also hired by the Scummies, and, aided by spunky artist Bobbie Lee risks life and license to help the police halt the terrorist campaign--if only the police will let him. Among the growing number of American regional mysteries, this is not a standout; otherwise well-crafted, it needs a clearer evocation of place. Lewin also wrote Late Payments.

Library Journal
Midwest detective Albert Samson, rather off the wall and full of acerbic comments, slides into apparent crass materialism when he stages a mystery murder for a wealthy woman's guests. Back at his office, a group of disguised women, who plant disconnected bombs for environmentalist publicity, pay him to locate a stolen bomb. No one wants anyone hurt, and Samson, not particularly macho, hates confrontation, so the plot proceeds with humor and short, jumpy paragraphs. Primarily for Samson fans.