Fadeout (novel)
Fadeout (1970) is a mystery novel by American crime writer Joseph Hansen, and the first to feature his popular character Dave Brandstetter, an openly gay detective.[1]
Synopsis
Following the discovery of his car, destroyed beneath a narrow wooden bridge, police assume that Fox Olson, once beloved pop star, died in a road accident, despite there being no sign of a body. When Dave Brandstetter, an insurance investigator and no-nonsense gumshoe, arrives on the scene, he soon begins collecting evidence that indicates otherwise. For instance, what lies behind the seemingly innocent friendship between Fox's wife and his manager? And just why has an old boyhood friend of his suddenly shown up after twenty years?
Reception
Unusual in two respects. One is that the insurance investigator, though ruggedly masculine, is thoroughly and contentedly homosexual. The other is that Mr. Hansen is an excellent craftsman, a compelling writer. - New Yorker
The most exciting and effective writer of the classic private-eye novel working today. - L.A. Times
Another classic private-eye novel: detailedly vivid . . . tenderly erotic. - The Times
A masterly portrayal of loneliness and sexual obsession. Hansen's writing is sharp and economical. He has an eye for the exactly relevant detail. - Gay News