The Black Stiletto: A Novel [Paperback]

New York TimesandUSA Todaybest-selling author

Warning: Do not cross the Black Stiletto!

Could Martin Talbot's elderly, Alzheimer-stricken mother, Judy, really have been the Black Stiletto? When Martin discovers several volumes of her diaries hidden by his mother, he is stunned beyond all imagination. His mother, the underground heroine of yesteryear? The famed, still unidentified woman who battled Communist spies, took on the Mafia, and preyed on common crooks? The woman who exacted punishment on evildoers without mercy? But it is all described, in great detail, in the diaries. What caused her to begin her quest for justice. Her decision to act outside the law. Her feats as the famed and feared vigilante. How her reputation exploded. In short, how it all played out. Could it be true? Talbot is filled with doubt and disbelief. But the reappearance of one of the Stiletto's old enemies with a thirst for merciless revenge makes the story more than real and could imperil the life of not only the Stiletto, but her son and granddaughter as well.

Its action! Its adventure! It appeals to womenand to men! Its faster than a speeding bullet, and a truly terrific read. Dont miss it! Heather Graham,New York Timesbest-selling author

...this is a completely captivating and exciting suspense novel. Though it's brought to a satisfying conclusion, there are still enough unanswered questions for subsequent books, which is good sinceThe Black Stilettois the start of a thrilling new series. Fresh Fiction

Judy is a complex character. She reminded me a bit of a female version of The Shadow. Most crime authors who write period pieces set in the '50s or '60s struggle at times for authenticityThe Black Stilettodoes not have that problem. Henry Perez, author ofKilling RedandMourn the Living

Benson has created one of the most original hel{