This first novel was one of five finalists in the inaugural Chapters/Robertson Davies Prize in 1999 and in many ways epitomizes current mainstream Canadian crime fiction. Even if the references to Canadian places and events were expunged, If Looks Could Kill would be immediately identifiable as Canadian from its low-key semi-apologetic style, self-deprecating humour, a complete absence of graphic violence and sex, and determinedly inoffensive and politically correct content. Having said that, the book still offers an entertaining light read and could develop into a worthwhile series.

Thomas McCall is a fortyish divorced commercial photographer living on a houseboat on Vancouver’s Granville Island. While he’s at the airport collecting his 12-year-old daughter for a summer-long visit he encounters Carla, an ex-girlfriend who departed suddenly from his life two years earlier, taking most of his portable valuables with her. He may have moved on with his life but his libido hasn’t.

McCall’s domestic life is in chaos: his houseboat is sinking, his aging parents are separating, his current lover has departed, and his daughter’s pet ferret and hearing impairment are causing unanticipated problems. When Carla arrives days later seeking sanctuary from her current partner – and other unknown violent pursuers – McCall tries to discover what she’s really up to before the body count gets too high.

All is explained and the sub-plots are neatly tied up by the book’s conclusion. Blair fills the story with an eclectic and interesting cast of characters, most of whom are very likable – even the villains seem more seedy than truly evil. The tone is eerily reminiscent of the Beachcombers TV series, but If Looks Could Kill remains an enjoyable and all-Canadian read.