A multi-generational women’s group with diverse interests organized many author events titled "Open a Book...Open Your Mind with [author's name]" held in an intimate setting in a suburb of Philadelphia, PA. In this setting I had an opportunity to meet Barbara Shapiro in late April 2017. Listening to the author's writing technique was fascinating and as anticipated from reading any of her work I was impressed by the amount and compilation of research which adds not only interest but to the quality, effectiveness, and soul of her writing.

In preparation for attendance for the book talk and signing, I purchased several novels by the author in addition to "The Art Forger" and "The Muralist" which I had already read. Reading "Blameless" completes reading of the novels purchased to have autographed. Reviews were posted earlier for "Blind Spot" and "The Safe Room." The writing style for these three (3) novels is totally different than "The Art Forger" and "The Muralist." I enjoyed both of those novels but I have been totally surprised by the intensity of her compelling psychological thrillers and that these earlier novels did not catapult her work to bestseller lists.

Reading the twists and turns had me changing my mind about the outcome of the riveting storyline more than once but that is a challenge which I always welcome especially when the stakes are high for the protagonist. In this case, the stakes are high not only for Dr. Diana Marcus (psychologist with expertise in borderline personality disorders) professionally but also personally for her marriage and unborn child. I can truly say that I didn't guess the ending. If you've not read the novel, now it's your turn to test your hypothesis or hypotheses. Even if you don't guess correctly, I hope you enjoy the reading challenge of this thriller as much as I did. ( )