B is for Burglar (Kinsey Millhone, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Sue Grafton's B is for Burglar, the second installment in the Kinsey Millhone series, finds the independent investigator embroiled in a seemingly straightforward case that spirals into a web of deceit and murder. The narrative begins with Kinsey taking on a seemingly simple job: finding a missing antique music box for wealthy client, Mrs. Dorcas Fitzwilliam. This seemingly innocuous task quickly transforms when Kinsey discovers Mrs. Fitzwilliam's body, murdered in her opulent Santa Teresa home.

The investigation unfolds in multiple directions. Initially, suspicion falls on the victim's estranged son, Michael, whose strained relationship with his mother and financial troubles make him a prime suspect. However, Kinsey's sharp observation skills uncover inconsistencies in Michael's alibi and other suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. She delves deeper, unearthing a complex history involving a string of burglaries targeting high-society homes in the Santa Teresa area, all possibly connected to the music box and Mrs. Fitzwilliam's mysterious past.

Kinsey's investigation introduces several key characters. Besides the victim and her son, we meet the enigmatic and potentially dangerous burglar, a shadowy figure who eludes capture. Detective Sergeant Harry Keogh, a recurring character and Kinsey’s sometime-romantic interest, provides a contrasting perspective on the case and often clashes with Kinsey’s independent methods. The interactions between Kinsey and Harry showcase the complex dynamics between law enforcement and private investigation, highlighting the differences in their approaches and the challenges of navigating professional and personal boundaries.

The overarching themes of B is for Burglar revolve around wealth, class disparities, and the corrupting influence of greed. The case reveals the hidden resentments and secrets festering beneath the polished surface of Santa Teresa's affluent community. Kinsey’s sharp eye for detail unravels a network of deceit involving blackmail, stolen treasures, and a surprising revelation about Mrs. Fitzwilliam's life. The investigation forces Kinsey to confront not only the criminal element but also the moral ambiguities within the wealthy elite she investigates. Furthermore, the novel explores the personal vulnerabilities of the characters, reflecting the human cost of betrayal and ambition.

Ultimately, Kinsey's resourcefulness and dedication lead her to the true perpetrator, revealing a shocking motive and highlighting the dangers of unchecked greed and the fragility of appearances. The resolution is satisfying, though it leaves a lingering sense of unease, reflecting the pervasive darkness underlying the seemingly idyllic setting. The case itself underscores Kinsey’s growing skill and resilience as an investigator, solidifying her role as a shrewd, independent woman operating within a male-dominated world.