‘Inherit The Dead’: Writers meld talents for good cause

Writing a mystery novel offers any number of logistical challenges. Clues - both true and false - must be scattered through the text; motives must be ascribed to various characters who might turn out to be the villain; a detective's setbacks and successes must lead logically to the big reveal near the near book's end.

All of that is tricky enough for a single author. Now imagine the challenges when 20 authors collaborate on a mystery, each providing a single chapter of the narrative. Twenty authors did, in fact, rise to that very challenge to craft 'Inherit the Dead” (Touchstone, 304 pages, $15). Proceeds from the joint effort are earmarked for Safe Horizon, a victim assistance agency and a fitting choice for a group of crime writers to support.

The book follows private investigator Perry Christo's efforts to find a missing young woman about to come into a lot of money - if Christo can produce her on her 21st birthday. Some of the top names in genre fiction - among them, Charlaine Harris of Sookie Stackhouse fame; Mary Higgins Clark, one of the biggest brand names in all of mystery fiction; and C.J. Box, who has amassed a collection of major awards - take a turn advancing Christo's adventure.

The result takes a bit of getting used to. Each chapter reflects its author's distinct style, so the tone often shifts - subtly and not so subtly - and each author has a slightly different take on Christo himself. But the variation is also part of the fun, and the through-line of the narrative is always in evidence.

Iowa's Max Allan Collins (author of 'Road to Perdition” and much more) tackles a key chapter later in the book, masterfully executing an interrogation that becomes complicated as various key figures arrive at the police station. Collins excels at dialogue, and his gifts are on display in his chapter of 'Inherit the Dead.”.

Lawrence Block, a personal favorite, wraps up the story, taking full advantage of what co-writers have provided. 'Inherit the Dead” is an intriguing reading experience, above and beyond the mystery itself.