Plot summary, “W Is for Wasted” by Sue Grafton in 4 Minutes - Book Review
0"W Is for Wasted" is the twenty-third novel in the Kinsey Millhone series, a popular detective series written by Sue Grafton. Unfortunately, Sue Grafton passed away before completing the series, so "W Is for Wasted" is one of the final books in the series.
The novel follows the adventures of private investigator Kinsey Millhone, who serves as the series' protagonist. In "W Is for Wasted," Kinsey becomes entangled in a complex case involving two seemingly unrelated deaths.
The story begins with the murder of a well-dressed, unidentified man who has no personal belongings or identification on him. Kinsey's involvement starts when the police discover her name and phone number in the victim's pocket. Intrigued, Kinsey sets out to unravel the mystery behind the man's identity and the circumstances surrounding his death.
In a parallel storyline, a homeless man named Pete Wolinsky is found dead on the beach. Pete had a reputation for being an alcoholic and a troublemaker, and his death is initially dismissed as accidental. However, as Kinsey investigates further, she begins to suspect a connection between Pete and the unidentified murder victim.
As the investigation progresses, Kinsey uncovers a web of deception, greed, and betrayal. She delves into the lives of various characters, including Pete's estranged family, shady acquaintances, and individuals involved in questionable business dealings.
Throughout the novel, Sue Grafton's skillful storytelling and sharp characterization shine through, as Kinsey Millhone navigates the complexities of the case while facing personal challenges of her own. The book showcases Grafton's signature blend of mystery, suspense, and witty writing.
"W Is for Wasted" provides a compelling addition to the Kinsey Millhone series, offering fans of the series another opportunity to follow Kinsey's investigative journey. While it is unfortunate that the series could not be completed due to the author's passing, Sue Grafton's legacy lives on through her captivating detective novels and the enduring popularity of Kinsey Millhone.