E is for Evidence (Kinsey Millhone, #5) Summary & Key Insights

In Sue Grafton's fifth Kinsey Millhone mystery, E is for Evidence, the titular letter proves pivotal as Kinsey investigates the disappearance of a young woman, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Duffy. Lizzie, a seemingly ordinary waitress, vanished without a trace, leaving behind only a cryptic note hinting at an impending danger. The case initially appears straightforward, a missing person potentially linked to her troubled ex-boyfriend, but quickly unravels into a complex web of deceit and long-buried secrets.

Kinsey, the independent investigator, takes on the case despite initial reluctance, primarily spurred by the plea of Lizzie's concerned mother. Her investigation leads her through the seedy underbelly of Santa Teresa, bringing her into contact with a diverse cast of characters. These include Michael Duffy, Lizzie's manipulative ex-boyfriend; the seemingly benign but ultimately suspicious owner of the diner where Lizzie worked; and several other individuals connected to Lizzie's past and present, each harboring their own motives and secrets.

Central to the plot is a series of seemingly unrelated events: a string of robberies, a questionable insurance claim, and a mysterious package containing a cryptic note. As Kinsey digs deeper, she uncovers a trail of evidence – the "E" of the title – pointing towards a conspiracy far greater than Lizzie's simple disappearance. The evidence, meticulously pieced together by Kinsey's sharp observation and logical deduction, reveals a sophisticated money-laundering operation involving Lizzie's employer and a powerful criminal network. The robberies were staged, the insurance claim fraudulent, all designed to obscure the real crime: the theft of significant funds.

Lizzie, it turns out, was not simply a missing person but a pawn in this larger criminal enterprise, unintentionally stumbling upon the operation and becoming a liability that needed to be eliminated. Her disappearance wasn't a random act but a carefully orchestrated event meant to protect the criminals.

Throughout the investigation, Kinsey grapples with the moral ambiguities inherent in her work. She confronts physical danger, as evidenced by several close calls, and wrestles with the ethical dilemmas presented by her clients and suspects. She navigates her complex relationships, particularly her continued connection with Henry Pitts, adding a layer of personal intrigue amidst the unfolding mystery.

E is for Evidence exemplifies Grafton's signature style – a tightly plotted narrative, sharp dialogue, and a compelling protagonist who uses her intellect and intuition to unravel a seemingly unsolvable puzzle. The overarching theme revolves around the deceptive nature of appearances and the importance of meticulous investigation to uncover the truth hidden beneath the surface. The story ultimately reinforces the enduring power of evidence and the dedication required to bring justice to those who are silenced.