Body of Evidence | Themes & Symbolism

Body of Evidence Significant Topics

In this novel, relationships are precarious, incomplete, open to abuse — an observation that seems to unite the book's various plot strands. The first victim, historical romance writer Beryl Madison, entered the literary world under the sponsorship of established writer Cary Harper. But the investigation of her death reveals that Harper had repeatedly molested her when, as a teen-ager, she became his protegee and stayed at his home. Sterling, Cary's sister, learned of the abuse, but did nothing. Sterling and Beryl became ironically close — a disturbing connection of a victim with her victimizer's protector. What seems to the literary world to be the Harpers' generous support of a new author is only a mask for sexual misconduct.

Finally to break from the psychological hold the Harpers have over her, Beryl writes her memoirs, exposing the Harpers in the manuscript. She has gone with the manuscript to Key...
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