Originally published in 1990, this novel set in Toronto reflects a prejudice against a woman doing a man's job, which we can hope has now vanished. Sandy DiGianni has taken a post in Police Digest magazine, having worked her way up through women's magazines - which don't count, as far as men are concerned. Now she's meeting a contact with a tip.

NO PAINE, NO GAINE shows that Sandy isn't daft. She knows crime reporting won't be easy, and her source, Charlie, looks unsavoury. He wants money for tips on unsolved murders. Despite her misgivings, Charlie turns out to have the straight dope on various crimes and she writes up good articles after checking facts. However, this could get her into trouble with the police media department. It makes the police look bad, and it gives away information that could resolve the case if a witness comes forward. There's no pleasing everyone, and her editor is the one who counts.

Sergeant Ted Gaine wants a word with the upstart journalist, who just has to protect her sources. He's a personable man, but he's mainly interested in warning Sandy that she could be walking into trouble. While the police deny the existence of a hitman, a murderer could try to silence the investigative journalist if she gets too close. If she does discover information, why not turn it over to him so he can solve the case?

I enjoyed watching Sandy get established and learn about her job. It's also nice to see her visit her Italian family for dinner, making her a well-rounded character. All told NO PAINE, NO GAINE is a great suspense story with a steady build up of an interesting romance. There's danger and drama aplenty as the intrepid reporter does her job, with many a second thought it has to be said. The police detective is wholly professional and can't let his feelings for Sandy surface while he is on the case. We have to respect him and enjoy the growing tenderness at the same time. Edwina Franklin, listed as the original author, is a pen name for Arlene F. Marks who has done exactly the right thing by re-releasing NO PAINE, NO GAINE for a new field of readers to enjoy. I highly recommend this exciting tale.