The Cruel Stars of the Night Kjell Eriksson St. Martin's ISBN 0-312-3667-1 $23.95 pages 320

The Cruel Stars of the Night is the second police procedural from Kjell Eriksson. Ann Lindell and the rest of the team from best selling: The Princess of Burundi are back. Erkisson, in a Ruth Rendell like way, again, gets into the heads of all the players and this serves to build some tension as well as allowing growth in the main protagonists. This time out three men are killed, probably by the same person. There's little to connect them to each other, initially. A retired officer suggests a theory that could link them. Because the queen is visiting shortly his off thought has more credence than normal. The diligent pace builds to an exciting climax. Ann, Ola Haver and the rest of the violent crimes squad are becoming more familiar. Erkisson makes mention of other crimes suggesting more books in the series. They'd be welcome. If you're looking for a unique, new, procedural series Kjell Eriksson offers distinct possibilities.

Dave Biemann