It is the spring of 2061. The 50th entry in J. D. Robb’s futuristic mystery/thriller series featuring Lieutenant Eve Dallas, her husband Roarke and her support team opens as the New York Police and Security Department (NYPSD) is called to a West Village apartment. A local pediatrician, Kent Abner, has been found dead by his partner, Dr. Martin Rufty.

On the floor are the remnants of a golden plastic egg. Eve immediately calls the hazmat team as it appears that some kind of unknown toxin has been released. It turns out that the murder weapon is a biochemical poison that is very fast-acting and leaves little trace. But why was the beloved doctor murdered? The investigation proves to be challenging as he was so well-liked. Soon, however, it becomes clear that whoever killed him had to have the special skills and access to the materials to create such a sophisticated formula.

"GOLDEN IN DEATH is an intense, captivating and well-paced thriller. Our tough yet likable protagonist and her mysterious yet formidable husband continue to grow and change, as does their relationship."

When a second murder with the same modus operandi occurs, Eve has to wonder if the crimes are linked. The common denominator turns out to be the Theresa A. Gold Academy. Abner’s partner is the current headmaster, and the spouse of the latest victim worked there at one time. Eve’s instincts lead her to conclude that the murderer is a cold, calculating assassin. He or she is not a professional, but probably is motivated by jealousy or revenge --- maybe even both.

As Eve and the gang investigate past students, former and current faculty, the administrators and even the board members, they uncover a cheating and bullying scandal. Although Dr. Rufty was brought in to address the academy’s culture and standards, its past missteps certainly could have resulted in murder. But by whom?

Eve, with the help of Roarke, Peabody and the rest of her trusted team, identifies a possible suspect who may have been in cahoots with two others. Are there more potential victims who may be next in line for a golden egg?

GOLDEN IN DEATH is an intense, captivating and well-paced thriller. Our tough yet likable protagonist and her mysterious yet formidable husband continue to grow and change, as does their relationship. The supporting characters create a sense of community that adds to the reader’s experience and is a testament to Robb’s unfailing talent as a master writer of story and series. This golden celebration of the 50th In Death novel also resonates with relevance for today’s world.