OVERTURNED, by Lamar Giles

The story: Nikki is determined to solve her father's murder with the help of her friends Molly, Gavin and Davis. The search for clues leads them into the seedy underbelly of Las Vegas--and to the startling conclusion that Davis's mobster father might somehow be connected to the crime. Can Nikki find out the truth, or will her feelings for Davis give him a free pass?

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG-13 (there are several murders but luckily they aren't graphically described); Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse R (underage drinking); Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (murder, underage gambling, truancy, extremely risky behaviors) PG-13; overall rating PG-13.

Liz's comments: I'm usually a big fan of mystery stories, but I thought this one, taking place as it did in down-at-heel gambling joints and motorcycle bars, was a bit too gritty for MS and its heroine too careless of her own and others' safety to be very likable. I found it adequate but not great.