Indemnity Only

Sara Paretsky

Book 1 in the series:V.I. Warshawski

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'Indemnity Only' in the V.I. Warshawski series by Sara Paretsky is a mystery novel featuring the tough and resourceful female private detective, V.I. Warshawski, as she navigates through a complex case involving a missing girl, a corrupt union boss, a murder, and insurance fraud in Chicago. The story unfolds with twists and turns, showcasing V.I.'s tenacity, investigative skills, and determination to uncover the truth despite facing dangerous situations and shady characters. The writing style evokes a sense of historical fiction, capturing the essence of Chicago in the 1980s and highlighting themes of feminism, social justice, and the evolving landscape of technology.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with the protagonist being a tough and independent detective, and the supporting cast providing depth and relatability while highlighting various social issues.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style features detailed descriptions and a strong first-person narrative, though it can sometimes be clunky or overly detailed for a debut novel.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a private investigator in Chicago who becomes embroiled in a mystery involving a missing woman and a murder. As she digs deeper, she unveils a larger scheme encompassing insurance fraud and union activities.

Setting:

The setting is primarily Chicago in the late 1970s to early 1980s, providing a rich backdrop that reflects the era's socio-political issues.

Pacing:

The pacing starts slow due to detailed descriptions but gradually builds tension, maintaining reader engagement as the plot progresses.

The night air was thick and damp. As I drove south along Lake Michigan, I could smell rotting alewives like a faint perfume on the heavy air. Little fires shone here and there from late-night barbecue...

Notes:

The first VI Warshawski novel, Indemnity Only, was published in 1982.

Sara Paretsky created the character VI Warshawski as a pioneering female private investigator in a male-dominated field.

The character VI, nicknamed Vic, is strong, independent, and relatable, making her a modern heroine.

The book is set against the backdrop of Chicago, reflecting social issues of the late 70s and early 80s, including the women’s movement and class tensions.

Vic Warshawski is depicted as a tough but vulnerable character, showcasing her complexity as she navigates threats and dangers in her cases.

The plot involves themes of corruption, murder, and insurance fraud, as well as a mystery surrounding a missing girl and her boyfriend's murder.

The narrative style is first person, allowing readers to see Vic's thoughts and emotions throughout the investigation.

The book has received both praise and criticism for its detailed descriptions and pacing, indicating it was an early work by a debut author.

The series has continued on for over 30 years, with many novels following Indemnity Only, highlighting its lasting popularity.

Vic Warshawski is known to have a love of fashion and a background influenced by her parents, including her father being a policeman.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes themes of violence, crime, and gender-based discrimination that some readers may find triggering.

From The Publisher:

Meeting an anonymous client late on a sizzling summer night is asking for trouble. But trouble is Chicago private eye V.I. Warshwski's specialty. Her client says he's the prominent banker, John Thayer. Turns out he's not. He says his son's girlfriend, Anita Hill, is missing. Turns out that's not her real name. V.I.'s search turns up someone soon enough - the real John Thayer's son, and he's dead. Who's V.I.'s client? Why has she been set up and sent out on a wild-goose chase? By the time she's got it figured, things are hotter - and deadlier - than Chicago in July. V.I.'s in a desperate race against time. At stake: a young woman's life.

Ratings (9)

Loved It (2)
Liked It (4)
It Was OK (1)
Did Not Like (2)

Reader Stats (15):

Read It (9)
Want To Read (4)
Not Interested (2)

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About the Author:

Sara Paretsky is the author of 20 books, including her renowned V. I. Warshawski novels. Her many awards include the Cartier Diamond Dagger Lifetime Achievement Award from the British Crime Writers' Association and the 2011 Mystery Writers of America's Grand Master…

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